KC RELO Magazine Fall/Winter 2017

FALL/WINTER 2017

w w w. k c r e l o m a g . c o m

GUIDE

Your to Making the

MOVE to Kansas

COMING SOON

Sundance Ridge

City!

Q U A L I T Y. S T Y L E . D I S T I N C T I O N . S I N C E 1 9 7 8 .

8712 West 151st Street | Overland Park, Kansas 66221 | 913-897-0040 Lambiecustom.com

S EE WHY OV E R 35, 00 0 FA MI LI ES C ALL RODROC K NEI GH BORH OODS HOME

It All Starts with

The Vision

There’s Something For Everyone In A

Rodrock Community

Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, Stilwell

Rodrock.com Single Family Homes • Maintenance Provided Villas Move-In Ready Inventory • Walkout & Daylight Lots

Visit Our Model Homes - Open Daily Monday - Saturday 10a-5p / Sunday - Noon-5p Proud Partner of Sporting KC

Proud Partner of KC Royals

Follow Us! The New Home Experts

Visit Today Enjoy For A Lifetime!

The

Crossings at Southglen New Lots Priced from $68,000 to $87,500 Homes from Upper $300s to Low $500s

New Lots from $130,000 to $255,000 Homes from Upper $600s to $1 Mil+

New Lots Priced from $75,000 to $225,000 Homes from Low $500s to Upper $800s

New Lots Priced from $72,500 to $125,000 Homes from Mid $400s to Low $600s

Contact Ken Rosberg - Jeff Sheppard - Linda Cahow-Stanton at 913-829-6500

CedarCreek-KC.com

K-10 Highway to the Cedar Creek Parkway Exit

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Appliances Electronics

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Convenient Shopping Hours:

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Order by Phone:

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local: 913-288-6354 toll-free: 800-407-5000

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Have Chimneys Inspected Before You Buy TIPS: • All flues should be inspected annually and swept as necessary by a professional chimney sweep • All types of wood, including hardwood, create flammable creosote • Wood-burning stove and insert flues should be swept twice during the season • Cut and split wood at least 6 months prior to using to assure that it is dried properly • Most chimney fires go unnoticed, with damages found later during inspection. Chimney fires usually cause costly damages • A second chimney fire is more likely to escape a flue and chimney and ignite nearby combustibles • Don’t allow sellers to exclude chimneys from inspections! To do so can be very costly.

Chimneys are one of the most important parts of a home to have inspected. Chimneys vent toxic and heated flue gasses out of the home, and if not properly maintained and sized, they fail to do the job correctly. Unfortunately, over 80% of chimneys are not in working order, yet continue to be used, leaving the occupants at risk for Carbon Monoxide poisoning or house fire.

The National Fire Protection 211 Standard requires a Level II internal camera inspection of chimney flues serving fireplaces, stoves or inserts, and venting gas or wood at the time of sale or transfer of a home. A camera is inserted into the flue and run the entire length in order to check for voids, missing mortar, cracked flue tiles, or other issues. A Level I visual inspection is required for furnace, boiler, or water heater flues, or manufactured chimneys where it is not possible to insert a camera.

Chimney repair can be costly, so it is best to know what the expense will be before purchase.

The most common problems are: Water heater and furnace flues in masonry chimneys are often oversized for the appliance and need a smaller flue liner; flammable bird and squirrel nests; leaves and twigs in the flue; blockages; damaged flue liners; flammable creosote on flue walls, and unparged smoke chambers (no coating of insulating mortar). HVAC technicians and home inspectors do not get training on chimneys and do not normally install flue liners or do chimney repair. Chimney technicians do this type of work.

A Chimney Safety Institute of America Certified technician is qualified to evaluate chimneys; however, any repair work must be completed by a Class DM Licensed Contractor in the greater Kansas City area.

Ask for these qualifications before hiring a chimney sweep or chimney contractor.

816.461.3665 or 913.498.2446 chimkc.com SERVING THE GREATER KANSAS CITY AREA

6 Model Homes, by 6 Top Builders

at the “outdoor lifestyle community”, Woodland Trails

Randy Bryant and Ron Ratliff Bryant Ratliff Building

Scott Bamesburger SAB Homes

Larry Grego

Chris Jeffries

LG Homes, Inc.

JFE Construction

Randy Stewart

Stewart Builders LLC

84 85 82 83

86

87

Kevin Higdon

Kevin Higdon Construction

Take a Tour

Talk to Experts

We have recruited some of the area’s finest custom home builders, to create 6 model homes for you to see. Come, see the quality, attention to detail and luxury that make these new homes ideal for your family.

If you’ve dreamed of building your own custom home, now is the perfect time and our “new home” experts are available to show you how. From planning, to selecting a builder, choosing the perfect floor plan, even the best financing options, we’ll guide you step-by-step.

Variety of Floor Plans

Experience the Community

Each of the thoughtfully conceived floor plans make these custom homes a haven for families seeking functionality with a touch of luxury. And each floor plan can be the beginning of a design and build to your exact specifications.

After touring our model homes, take some time to see our unique community, nestled among woods, rolling hills, serene ponds and artistic landscapes, all connected by miles of paved walking trails. Feel the “breathing room” and imagine your new lifestyle at Woodland Trails.

Located on 150 Highway just south of Lee’s Summit 816-246-0064 • www.woodland-trails.com Parade models open during KCHBA Parade of Homes, April 22nd–May 7th Mon–Sun, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Normal hours: Wed–Fri, 1–5 p.m. Sat & Sun, 12–5 p.m.

KIMBERLIE RICE • 913.777.1514 | RDESIGNSSITE.COM | BEST OF HOUZZ AWARD 2016 & 2017 | Photography by Mike Boatman

Thanks to The Gamble Group for finding our cozy new home.

All my toys can fit in my big closet!

Our first floor master bedroom makes life easier for me.

I love my new pink room!

Can’t wait to get back to my gourmet kitchen.

The Gamble Group took the stress out of moving.

Let me go play in my big back yard!

Real estate opens a new chapter in your life.

The Gamble Group... Helping families write their stories in Kansas City for over 30 years.

Let us help find your new home!

Call or Email Us Today! gamblegroupkc.com 913-229-3555 or GambleGroup@KW.com

Hunt Midwest communities simplify the relocating experience Whether moving to a new part of town or relocating to an entirely different part of the country, finding the perfect neighborhood for your family can be tough. Hunt Midwest is proud to offer a series of master planned, new home communities that take the guesswork out of deciding where to buy a home in the Kansas City metro.

Staley Hills Surrounded by trees and greenspace, Staley Hills offers residents a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with two dramatic water features bordering the community’s entrance, a crystal clear swimming pool, scenic walking trails and beautiful, stone-clad homes lining the streets.

While it’s easy for those who live there to get lost in the serenity that comes with being tucked off North Woodland Avenue and Shoal Creek Parkway, just north of M-152, Staley Hills is close to many conveniences such as Zona Rosa and has excellent access to major highways, Kansas City International Airport and downtown Kansas City. It is located within the highly acclaimed North Kansas City School District.

Homes start in the mid $300,000s.

Benson Place Drive slowly through Benson Place on any given Saturday in the summer and you’ll quickly spot kids wobbling on bikes along the sidewalk and neighbors gathering for an impromptu party in the driveway.

“All of new home communities are built within the area’s top-performing school districts,” said Jenni Mann, marketing manager for Hunt Midwest. “In addition to good schools, our neighborhoods offer a wide array of family-friendly amenities and are conveniently located for a quick commute to work or local attractions.

The only thing left to do is find your new home!”

Hunt Midwest has teamed up with the area’s finest home builders, providing future residents with a wide variety of floorplans and styles to choose from.

The sense of community in Benson Place is just one of many attributes that have led to its popularity. Others include rolling hills, abundant parkland, and close proximity to the Shoal Creek Golf Course and Hodge Park. Benson Place is within the boundaries of the highly rated Liberty school district and just minutes from excellent shopping, downtown Kansas City and Kansas City International Airport.

to family oriented hotspots such as the Tiffany Springs Sports Complex, Springs Water Park and one of the city’s premier shopping districts, Zona Rosa, make The Reserve at Riverstone a top choice for families desiring luxury and convenience.

Family-friendly amenities include a competition-sized swimming pool and cabana, a second lazy-L shaped swimming pool with underwater benches and bubbler fountains, children’s spray ground, playground, five acre lake, picnic area, walking trails and more than 40 acres of parkland and natural areas.

Homes begin in the upper $200,000s.

The Reserve at Riverstone High-end amenities, including a brand new swimming pool, stone entrance monument and extensive landscaping, and location within the award-winning Park Hill School District add to the laundry list of pluses for The Reserve at Riverstone. In addition, its nearness

“Move-in ready homes are available in all of our communities, allowing homebuyers to move within 60 days or less. Our experienced onsite community managers are knowledgeable about the relocation process and can offer new residents a positive home buying experience.”

Homes start in the upper $300,000s.

Woodneath Farms Woodneath Farms has long been a destination community with rolling hills, larger homesites and grand residences all located in the Liberty School District on Flintlock Road north of Missouri 152.

Amenities include a competition-size swimming pool, lake and fountain, walking trails, playground, nature areas, tennis court, picnic pavilion, recreation area, nature area, generous landscaping and brick entrance monuments. The Mid-Continent Public Library Woodneath branch and Shoal Creek Elementary are situated on either side of the community’s entrance, adding additional conveniences within walking distance of home.

Homes start in the mid $300,000s.

For more information about Hunt Midwest’s family of new home communities, visit HuntMidwestKC.com.

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usbank.com/mortgage

Mortgage options for physicians Take advantage of today’s competitive interest rates and help your customers purchase a home with our loan option for physicians. This mortgage is especially designed for physicians with six months left in their residency program or who have completed their residency program within the past ten years.

– Income from permanent position used in loan approval – Low down payment options

– Gift funds may be used for down payment – Mortgage insurance not required

Apply for preapproval today.

Kent Hayes Mortgage Sales Manager Overland Park 913.323.5334 kent.hayes@usbank.com NMLS#: 488999

Deborah Hannon Mortgage Sales Manager Kansas City 816.460.3673 deborah.hannon@usbank.com NMLS#: 653811

Applicants must be Doctors of Medicine (M.D.) and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) that have accepted a permanent position, have six months left in their residency or physicians who have completed their residency within the past ten years.

Income from permanent position will be used in loan approval. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage and Home Equity Products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit Products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2017 U.S. Bank 170006C 3/17

SET YOURSELF APART

We’ve transformed from traditional to contemporary. If you’re looking for a refreshing, cleaner style and want to make a statement, reach out to us.

Our new motivation has transitioned in a more modern style, incorporating new and fresh ideas that are expanding into the housing market today and Suma Design is at it’s forefront.

Building in the finest communities in the greater Kansas City area.

333 NE 180th Street | Smithville, MO 64089 | (816) 532-1555 | sumadesigninc.com

11401 Meadow Lane Hallbrook Offered For $3,999,950

5550 Ward Parkway Sunset Hill Offered For $3,500,000

5613 Golden Bear Drive The Links at Lionsgate Offered For $1,550,000

5820 High Drive Mission Hills Offered For $1,275,000

6646 Wenonga Terrace Indian Hills Offered For $1,949,500

6619 Willow Lane Mission Hills Offered For $1,189,500

Canyon C PRIME DEVELOPMENT

MAIN: Canyon Creek boasts one of the largest and most diverse model rows in the Kansas City metro. Consisting of nine furnished models with varying plans, styles and finishes; Canyon Creek is sure to meet buyer’s expectations. Model homes are open daily from 11-5pm, Sunday 12-5pm.

L A N D C O M PA N Y, L LC

To learn more about Prime Development and information about any of their communities, visit www.PrimeKC.com or call (913)831-3388

Creek TOP RIGHT: Canyon Creek opened its final phase of 75 homesites within the Highlands.

BOT TOM RIGHT: Homes range from the $400,000s to over $1 million, with plans including two-story, 1-1/2-story and reverse 1-1/2-story designs.

CANYON CREEK - LENEXA Located off Kansas 10 highway, one mile west of Kansas 7, this master-planned residential community has been thoughtfully planned with an eye for natural beauty. Comprised of five distinctive enclaves, Canyon Creek by the Lake, Park, Highlands, Shores, and Point; each fosters their own unique ambiance with wooded or lakeside homesites, large private common areas, curving streets and private cul-de-sacs carefully designed to respect the contours of the land.

Homeowners who make Canyon Creek their home are afforded a vibrant lifestyle and a remarkable living environment. In addition to the paved walking and biking trails along the forested shoreline of Mize Park Lake, residents can enjoy the community’s pools, cabanas, playgrounds, basketball courts, and large, open recreational sports fields. Canyon Creek’s proximity to major highway networks, shopping, and dining also affords homeowners convenient access to many area parks and amenities.

Early this past spring, Canyon Creek unveiled its newest offerings for 2017. Canyon Creek Highlands moved into it’s final phase consisting of 75 highly sought-after wooded or lakeside homesites.

Complementing the Highlands offerings, a new maintenance-provided villa phase, Canyon Creek Point, opened with an additional 100 premium homesites with a mix of walkout, daylight, and level options, backing to either greenspace, or trees. For more information about Canyon Creek’s latest offerings, please contact Debbie Sinclair or MaraDona Wood at 913.441.8998.

www.CanyonCreekKS.com

Building new memories one community at a time PERSIMMON

POINTE

PrimeKC.com Model Homes Open Daily

one of the best

places to live...

Thanks Money Magazine!

LeesSummit.org | 816.525.6617

CityofLS.net | 816.969.1000

LSchamber.com | 816.524.2424

Feel Right at Home...

Small Town Values

They say that an understanding of the past is fundamental to understanding the present. Lee’s Summit is the kind of place that possesses a rich, colorful past echoing its timeless cultural traditions.

It’s the kind of place that allows you to glimpse back in time and surround yourself with things that are real and true, things with character that provide residents and visitors alike with a genuine appreciation for all those who have come before us. Lee’s Summit is still the type of place where inclusion is just as important today as it was back in 1865, when our city started welcoming early settlers, each with their own unique characteristics, yet all were overflowing with shared dreams of a better life.

In this increasingly high technology world and always on-call lifestyle, folks are on a quest for authentic experiences to inspire and arouse their emotions. It just so happens that Lee’s Summit provides a backdrop for all those who desire to find something more emotionally gratifying than a simple diversion from the increasing demands of everyday life! Maybe that’s why Lee’s Summit continues to attract individuals who are resourceful, self-assured and inner directed Individuals, who seek out emotional experiences that excite their imagination, allowing them to think and feel in new ways.

Community Spirit

Lee’s Summit a town where family and neighbors create the backbone of the community. It may have something to do with the sense of community spirit you’ll find in the hearts of real people, who have a high regard for their neighbors, doing small but meaningful acts to help make everyday life better for everyone.

Lee’s Summit is a place where people work together and share a responsibility for the welfare of the community they call home.

This collaborative approach serves as the optimum backdrop for individuals to embrace and celebrate those things they have in

common, including a sense of deep emotional comfort that comes from a balanced living environment. In fact, Lee’s Summit’s vision and energy make for the right balance between work time, family time and time for yourself. In a nutshell, Lee’s Summit is constantly: • • •

Safeguarding the welfare of Lee’s Summit’s greatest assets: it’s people, environment, culture, character and values Promoting proactive leadership to ensure efficient and effective deployment of all city resources for today as well as tomorrow Attracting individuals and businesses who are optimistic, enthusiastic and continually strive to reach their full potential

Lee’s Summit has to be seen to be believed. It is populated by folks who have a genuine appreciation for that spirit you find in small towns across America. A places where residents and businesses alike feel a sense of pride and responsibility for the welfare of all those who are proud to call Lee’s Summit home.

X Marks The Spot

Lee’s Summit is conveniently located to the surrounding Kansas City metro area. In fact, we’re just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from home plate at Kaufman Stadium, home to the World Champion Kansas City Royals. Lee’s Summit is also home to over 100 annual community and cultural events that are sure to put a smile on your face, not to mention a world-class farmer’s market where you’ll find fresh produce and homemade baked goods. Our historic downtown district offers a one-of-a-kind experience including specialty shops and restaurants. So whether you’re looking to open a business, find a place to call home, or looking to spend some quality time with your family, you’ll discover that Lee’s Summit is the ideal place to make those very special memories that will last a lifetime.

This all may sound a little old fashioned, but that’s just the way we like it. Come see for yourself and feel right at home.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Welcome to Kansas City!

A

As 30+ year residents of this great community, there truly is "No Place Like Home!" My wife and business partner and I have been assisting families with financing for their homes for over 45 years combined. We are proud to have served over 10,000 families and helped them achieve the dream of home ownership.

As you get to know our great community you will likely experience many things you may never have before. First impressions will be that while we enjoy the amenities and services of the best metropolitan areas in the country, we do it with a "Mayberry" style. You can expect to meet many new people who will become friends very quickly. We are proud to carry on this tradition as partners of Inlanta Mortgage Kansas City. We are family owned and operated and have been since the company was started in 1993.

The Kansas City Real Estate market is also very different from other parts of the country.

We enjoy a very affordable market with diverse neighborhoods and home styles. Many families relocating to the area from other metropolitan areas are amazed at what their housing budget will buy. While we enjoy these opportunities, our community continues to grow and the real estate market can be very competitive at times.

A strong Real Estate Agent, Builder and Lender are all important when buying or building a new home.

The Inlanta Mortgage Team of experienced Mortgage Professionals looks forward to helping you through the home buying process.

Our team is available for Pre-Approval and inquires every day including evenings and weekends. We know how important it is to get you the right home for your family. We work with many of Kansas City's Top Real Estate Agents and Teams and can assist you with a referral if you need it.

We believe in and take great pride in giving back to our great community. As a company and on a personal level, we actively give our time and financial resources to many locally-based organizations who support our great city.

Welcome home!

Go Royals, Chiefs and Sporting Kansas City!

Thank you for taking time to learn a little more about Kansas City and Inlanta Mortgage.

We look forward to the opportunity to be one of the first to welcome you to our great city and all we have to offer!

Make Your Move to Kansas City Easy WITH THE

LAFFEY TEAM and INLANTA MORTGAGE

KEVIN LAFFEY Mortgage Planner/Branch Partner 913-645-4647 KevinLaffey@Inlanta.com NMLS # 259475

CINDY LAFFEY Mortgage Planner/Branch Partner 913-568-9074 CindyLaffey@Inlanta.com NMLS # 261978

KRISTEN FERRIS Processor

913-322-4422 KristenFerris@Inlanta.com

TERRI GAA Processor

913-322-4422 TerriGaa@Inlanta.com

KATIE BOND

Loan Officer Assistant

913-322-4422 KatieBond@Inlanta.com

LEAH KNEISLER

NMLS # 914571

Marketing/Client Care

913-322-4422 LeahKneisler@Inlanta.com

6300 W. 143rd St. Ste. 100 | Overland Park, KS 66223 • 913-322-4422 Inlanta Mortgage, Inc. NMLS#1016. Kansas Licensed Mortgage Company #MC. 0025045.

Missouri License #14-1737. Information subject to change. Loans subject to credit approval.

SEE WHY OVER 35,000 FAMILIES CALL RODROCK COMMUNITIES HOME

Building Me Is What We Do In Rodrock

Proud Partner of Sporting KC

Proud Partner of KC Royals

There’s Something For Everyone In A

Rodrock Community

Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, Stilwell Visit Our Model Homes - Open Daily Monday - Saturday 10a-5p / Sunday - Noon-5p

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES � MAINTENANCE PROVIDED VILLAS � WALKOUT & DAYLIGHT LOTS

mories

Communities!

Arbor Lake

Clare Rd & Prairie Star Pkwy, Lenexa, KS - Upper $300s-$500

Arbor Woods

127th St & Canyon Dr, Olathe, KS - Mid $300s

Stonebridge Trails

165th St & Mur-Len Rd, Olathe, KS - $380s- Upper $400s

Stonebridge Meadows

165th St & Ridgeview, Olathe, KS - $330s-$400s

Stonebridge Village

164th St & Mur-Len Rd, Olathe, KS - Upper $200s-$350

Stonebridge Park

165th St & BlackBob Rd, Olathe, KS - Upper $300s-$600+

Cottages at Woodridge

132nd St & Goodman, Overland Park, KS - $325s-$420s

Forest View

119th St & Clare Rd, Olathe, KS - Upper $300s-$650+

Grayson Place

Townhomes $240s / Villa’s $350s / Single Family $340s+ 119th St & Lone Elm Rd, Olathe, KS

Greens of Chapel Creek

Shawnee Msn Pkwy & K7 Hwy, Shawnee, KS - $400s-$700s

Southwick on the Lake

199th St & Mission Rd, Stilwell, KS - $500s-$1Mil

Persimmon Hill

127th St & Persimmon Dr, Olathe, KS - Upper $290s

NEW - The Mill at Riverstone 183rd St & Quivira, Overland Park, KS - Mid $400s+

NEW - Sundance Ridge 175th St & Kenneth Rd, Overland Park, KS Mid $400s - Over $1Mil

Rodrock.com & Follow Us!

Create memories friendships that last a lifetime!

The New Home Experts

YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO SHARES A

PASSION FOR BUSINESS. As you build your business, you’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing to pass it on, we help you focus on the current needs of your business while you adapt to future changes through each new phase of its growth. Learn how we can work with you to help you develop a sound financial strategy.

John S. Sight, MSFS, CLU®, ChFC® Financial Representative MassMutual Heartland 10801 Mastin Boulevard, Suite 500 Overland Park, KS 66210 913-234-4805 jsight@financialguide.com

BUSINESS SUCCESSION PLANNING + RETIREMENT/401(K) PLAN SERVICES KEY EMPLOYEE RETENTION AND EXECUTIVE BENEFITS PRODUCTS

MassMutual Financial Group refers to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. (MassMutual), its affiliated companies and sales representatives. Local sales agencies are not subsidiaries of MassMutual or its affiliated companies. CRN201809-186045

kcrelomag.com President/Publisher Dave Leathers spublishingco@msn.com Editor Lonny Cohen lonnysp@gmail.com Art Director Louise Scopelitis Contributing Writers Nate Bechtold • Lonny Cohen • Judy Goppert Connie Griffin • Tia Keene • Reggie Harris Dave Leathers • Erin Orrick • Julie Puckett Photographers Aaron Dougherty • Al Griffin Photography American Jazz Museum • American Royal Association David Bickley • Bluebird • Bluestem • Brookside Business Association • Cedar Creek Children’s Mercy Cottonwood Canyon • Creekmoor Extra Virgin Fountain City Studios • Gameface Media FunLake.com • James Maidhof Photography Kansas City Chiefs • Kansas City Streetcar Authority Kansas City Zoo • Kansas Speedway • Dave Leathers Liberty Hospital • Mark McDonald North Kansas City Hospital Olathe Medical Center • Brian Paulette Shawnee Mission Health • Sporting KC Saint Luke’s Health System • St. Mary’s Medical Center Shutterstock.com/Denys Prykhodov Shutterstock.com/rvlsoft • Shutterstock.com/Yeamake The American Heart Association • The National Truman Medical Centers • University of Kansas Hospital Visit KC • Wright Studio 3G Controller/Billing Marcia Myers spublishingoffice@hotmail.com Accounting Jay Power Showcase Publishing President—Dave Leathers Secretary—Marcia Myers Treasurer—Megan Leathers

SHOWCASE PUBLISHING, INC. CELEBRATING 33 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE. KC RELO MAGAZINE IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING...

Fear of foreclosure?

Call on us for our expert Short Sale services.

www.KChomes.House

5000 W. 135th St. | Leawood KS 66224 | 913-568-3253 32

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FALL/WINTER 2017

FREE

kcrelomag.com

INSTALLATION 5 or More Blinds or Shades

KC Relo magazine is proudly published biannually by Showcase Publishing, Inc., an awardwinning 33-year old magazine media corporation ©2017. All rights reserved. Any reproduction of this publication, in any form, is strictly prohibited.

For permission to use anything within these pages, please write the publisher at the below address. Volume 2, Number 2. Dave Leathers, President, Corporate Offices: Showcase Publishing Inc., P.O. Box 26326, Overland Park, Kansas 66225, email: spublishingco@msn.com.

Advertising Information: Looking to reach future residents to KC Metro through a highly targeted print and digital format? KC Relo delivers that and much more in the highest quality, low cost format. To be included in the Spring/Summer 2018 editions, please email Publisher Dave Leathers at spublishingco@msn.com, or Lonny Cohen at lonnysp@gmail.com.

KC Relo is distributed through KC Metro area real estate offices, new home sub-divisions, relocation services, area chamber of commerce, extended stay hotels and other locations specific to those moving to the KC Metro area. For additional copies of KC Relo for your business or non-profit organization email spublishingoffice@hotmail.com.

On the cover: Prime Development’s Canyon Creek, of Lenexa, boasts one of Kansas City’s largest furnished model rows; showcasing nine homes across a variety of two story, one-and-a-half story, reverse one-and-a-half story, and ranch plans from area-leading builders. Due to the overwhelming reception to recent offerings, Canyon Creek, has recently opened new phases in The Highlands, and Canyon Creek Point featuring a variety of treed, lake, and walkout home sites.

Photography provided by: Prime Development

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Monday & Thursday, 9am-8pm, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 9am-5pm. Saturday, 10am-4pm, Closed Sunday KC RELO

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CONTENTS 42 Message from the President/Publisher

BY DAVE LEATHERS

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It’s all about the people!

Kansas City Welcomes You & Your Family, Including the Extended Family

Message from the Editor

88

44

BY LONNY COHEN

Kansas City’s Coolness

48

Distinctive Neighborhoods

BY JUDY GOPPERT

Relocating to the Kansas City Area is One of The Best Moves You’ll Ever Make

Moving with Your Pets

BY TIA KEENE

The Trailing Spouse

BY TIA KEENE

For a Newly Relocated Couple, Kansas City has Boundless Career Potential for Both Members

90

Live Your Green Lifestyle

BY LONNY COHEN

BY LONNY COHEN

Rich in History. Rich in Tradition.

Golf and Lifestyle Communities Offering You Perks that Go Well Beyond Your Property Line

Kansas City’s Rich History

104 Kansas City Solidifies

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72 The Ins & Outs of Getting Around

BY JUDY GOPPERT

The Ease of Getting Around Kansas City is Another Great Perk that You Will Enjoy

80 Explore Your New City on

the KC Streetcar

Kansas City Ranks High as a Cultural Mecca

BYJUDY GOPPERT

There’s Nothing Like Parking Your Car and Boarding the New Kansas City Streetcar

Status as Cultural Mecca

BY ERIN ORRICK

113 Lake of the Ozarks

The Best Recreational Lake

Another Financial Option 130

BY LONNY COHEN

Credit Unions Offer Relationship Options in the Kansas City Metro Area

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FALL/WINTER 2017

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Visit us during the Spring Parade of Homes Tour starting April 22nd - May 7th

OUR MISSION: To Deliver

The Most Amazing New Home Experience Possible.

Currently Building In: - Ridgestone Meadows – Shawnee - Bristol Ridge – Lenexa - The Enclave at Woodland Lakes – Lenexa - Reserve at Manchester Park – Lenexa - Brighton’s Landing – Olathe - Estates of Forest View – Olathe - Melrose Reserve – Overland Park - Mills Crossing – Overland Park - Loch Lloyd – Belton - Sundance Ridge Archer’s Landing – Overland Park - Sundance Ridge Red Fox Run – Overland Park - Sundance Ridge Big Sky – Overland Park - Your Own Acreage Lot

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CONTENTS Kansas City Loves Its Sports 138

BY JUDY GOPPERT

Big League Sports

Popularity of Propane School Buses 144 Fueled by Economic Savings

BY JULIE PUCKETT

Propane Autogas is the Leading Alternative Fuel in the United States

Foodies Delight – Kansas City’s 146 Iconic Restaurants

BY LONNY COHEN

Restaurants with Strong Kansas City Roots

Many Hospitals and the Most Advanced 154 Healthcare Options

146

BY JUDY GOPPERT

154

The Level of Academic Excellence 164

Available in Kansas and Missouri Area Schools is in a Class by Itself

Highlighting Primary and Secondary Education

177 Kansas City is the Ideal Place to Realize

Your Dream of Higher Education

BY JUDY GOPPERT

Spotlight the Importance of Higher Education and Its Presence in Kansas City

Finding a Home for Your Faith 180

BY LONNY COHEN

No matter what your faith or beliefs, you will soon find that home.

Healthcare Readily Available in the Kansas City Metro

Kansas City is the Definition 186

No Reason to Suffer Until Monday 162

BY LONNY COHEN

Urgent care may be the answer-with a multitude of convenient locations around the KC Metro

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of Giving…in Many, Many Genres

BY JUDY GOPPERT

Kansas City’s Giving Community

n

Nickole Pittala, Co-Owner/Realtor has been selling real estate in the Clay and Platte county area since 2009. Growing up in the Northland has ensured countless friendships and professional relationships and is a big reason she has become so successful.

Riss Lake, Parkville, MO $499,950

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D L Y O DA S1 IN

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7821 N Hull Avenue, Kansas City, MO $399,950

8260 Westlake Drive, Parkville, MO $550,000

6757 N National Dr, Parkville, MO $1,350,000

SELLS KANSAS CITY S

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Lakewood, Lee’s Summit, MO $399,950

Shannon Stumpenhaus, Co-Owner/Realtor has been selling real estate throughout the KC area since 2000.

Her longevity in the market is a direct reflection of her attention to detail, knowledge of the marketplace and relationship building skills.

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4305 Park Springs Ct, Lee’s Summit, MO $399,950

Lakewood, Lee’s Summit, MO $1,150,000

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2932 NE 89th St, Kansas City, KS $375,000

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Lionsgate, Overland Park, KS $649,950

MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

It’s all about

THE

People!

This native understands WHY KC IS SO GREAT. You will too.

KC IS ALL ABOUT LOOKING OUT FOR EACH OTHER’S BACK, REGARDLESS OF SKIN COLOR, GENDER, OR BACKGROUND.

F

irst of all,Welcome to Kansas City, your NEW home town! Whether your current company made the choice for you, your grandkids, family, new career, wanting to return to your hometown roots, love of the Midwest values or whatever, your new home is better than ever!

Why? Well, from a born and bred perspective, it starts with the people. The make-up of this sprawling metropolis all seem to be connected by one common denominator. Love of their city and its makeup.

As a million plus miler on American Airlines we travel a lot and get asked a lot about KC. Especially in the last year, as the Royals became World Champs again after 30 long years. But often we hear people say,‘Kansas City seems like a good place to raise a family. Of course it is, but one of the main reasons is the people and their values.

The people at your local school, house of worship, workplace, fast-food restaurant, C-Store, car wash, bank or wherever your daily life takes you. It’s a unique feeling you get when you interact with everyone. It’s a good vibe that’s hard to put a finger on.

Go 250 miles east of here, and you find a city with an East Coast vibe. Not bad, if that’s your thing, but KC is all about looking out for each other’s back, regardless of skin color, gender, or background. It’s an inspiring feeling that now you call it home, you will cherish for a lifetime.

Welcome!

n

Sincerely,

Dave Leathers President, Showcase Publishing, Inc. 42

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(816) 589-2274 or (913) 685-3101

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For more info contact Steve (913) 269-6573 or Holly (913) 302-3074

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MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

Kansas City’s Y

Coolness

ou are about to discover what Kansas Citians already know and why The Huffington Post concluded that Kansas City is the “coolest” city in America.

country. The museum draws the young and the old to see the extensive collections of American, American Indian, Egyptian and European art. But the art scene does not stop there.You will also have the opportunity to tour numerous galleries, studios and exhibitions featuring everything from classical to contemporary works of art and everything in between.

If you thought that moving to Kansas City meant that you would only be eating barbecue, you are in for a very pleasant surprise. While you will find phenomenal “Kansas City” barbecue throughout the area, you will be happy to learn that the area has an abundance of extremely gifted chefs that will delight your taste buds. Additionally, thanks to the population’s diversity, no matter what cuisine you crave, you will find it here.

Cultural coolness is everywhere.You will be delighted by the area’s highly talented actors when you attend some of the many theatre offerings throughout the area.

You are in for a treat when you visit the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art Gallery, which is considered one of the top art museums in the

If you love to shop, the Kansas City area has the shopping experiences you are looking for. The Country Club Plaza was the first shopping center in the country and today the 15-block upscale area offers endless shopping possibilities. Throughout the city, there is also an abundance of quaint shopping areas, destination shopping and shopping centers featuring local and national retailers.

No matter what the age, a trip to the zoo is a favorite among locals. Located in Swope Park, Kansas City’s largest park and one of the largest urban parks in the United States, the zoo offers delightful exhibits and attractions including the Polar Bear Passage and the African, Kangaroo and Chimp exhibit.

If you like parks, you will not be disappointed. The Metropolitan Kansas City Area is known for its beautiful parks with sprawling spaces featuring everything from swings and slides to hiking trails, lakes and places to picnic offering fun for the entire family right in your neighborhood.

Finally, take time to step out your door at the end of the day and you will soon see that our spectacular sunsets contribute to the area’s coolness. Enjoy! n Sincerely,

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KANSAS CITY’S # 1 PURCHASE LENDER 2014, 2015, 2016*

*As listed by Marketrac® for purchase units Jan. 2014-Dec. 2016. All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Mortgage financing provided by PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. Equal Housing Lender. © 2017 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending Company (NMLS : 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a statechartered bank and an exempt lender in KS, MO v021216

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You deserve to work with an understanding mortgage professional who’s focused on giving you personalized service and answering all of your questions.

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Distinctive

Neighborhoods

n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

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PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

R

elocating to the Kansas City area is one of the best moves you’ll make. There are many different faces of our city to choose from, each offering a variety of unique options and features. Whether you want to live in our thriving Downtown area with a streetcar and plethora of eateries all within walking distance, or out on an estate in a family neighborhood, with excellent education options. The best part is every niche and corner is within driving distance of entertainment options and amenities.

We have touched on a few of the areas in the most demand for your consideration.

Welcome to Kansas City! t

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Distinctive Neighborhoods

Continued

PHOTO BY BROOKSIDE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Family living in Brookside and Waldo is a community tradition The Brookside Neighborhood is a sought after eclectic metropolitan jewel, with lovely historic homes, unique shops, trendy restaurants and cultural attractions. Home to some of Kansas City’s hippest residents and urban professionals, Brookside was this city’s first suburban shopping area. It now boasts over 70 proprietors and offices which have elegantly preserved the original architecture and kept the neighborhood appeal.

Located just a few short blocks south of the Country Club Plaza, this residential neighborhood begins at 51st and Wornall Road, while the retail area is further south and bounded by Wornall Road on the west, Meyer Boulevard to the south, 61st Terrace to the north and Main Street to the east. The year is dotted with events including the Brookside Art Fair, a nationally recognized Art Fair in its 21st

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year. It features over 185 local, national and international artists and draws over 80,000 plus each year. The Annual St. Patrick Warm-up Parade is held the Saturday before St. Pat’s Day is a festive, family friendly event where everyone is “Irish” for a day.

Brookside’s delightful neighboring city, Waldo, stretches from Gregory Boulevard on the north to 91st Street on the south, and Troost Avenue on the east to State Line Road on the west. This vibrant neighborhood and business district began in 1841 as the farm of Dr. David Waldo, and soon became a bustling neighborhood on the edge of the city.

Waldo has never lost its flavor as a fun, little family neighborhood on the edge of a big city. Today, you’ll find more than 600 businesses in Waldo, most locally owned, surrounded by a family-oriented neighborhood. This walkable, tree-lined area of our city is truly a wonderful place t to work, shop, live and play.

Continued PHOTOS BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Distinctive Neighborhoods

Suburban treats await in Lee’s Summit, Lakewood, and Lake Lotawana Located just east of the metro, the city of Lake Lotawana surrounds the largest private lake in Missouri. With 600 acres of surface water and 27 miles of shoreline, it is populated by every style, size and shape of home, from cozy log cabins to million dollar estates, and private docks that hold pontoons, PWCs, ski boats, fishing boats, sailboats and more. Residents can take advantage of the Missouri Yacht Club on the lake and lakeside dining at Marina Grog and Galley. Sailing and ski clubs connect residents for a family feeling throughout the neighborhood.

Such events as Lotawana Day, with many activities including ski shows and swimming contests, and the 4th of July, with brilliant fireworks, always attract large crowds.

Another community located east of KC ideal for lake lovers is the Lakewood subdivision, boasting two lakes with a total surface area of 365 acres. This prestigious 2,200-acre neighborhood features the Lakewood Oaks Golf course, a championship course, with pro shop, restaurant and bar onsite. Condominiums and homes dot the neighborhood, with 52

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many amenities including four swimming pools and a neighborhood swim team, fitness center, tennis courts, ball fields and play areas. Sunset cruises on the lakes are priceless.

The suburb of Lee’s Summit, southeast of the metro, is renowned for educational excellence, diversity of neighborhood options and a downtown brimming with “small town” ambiance, with over 40 specialty local retail shops, restaurants and many annual events. Free Wi-Fi and

a new electric vehicle charging station further enhance the downtown amenities, and the summer concert series draws lawn chairs and families gathered near the quaint train car which houses the Chamber of Commerce. Downtown Days, weekly events and Fourth Fridays create a nostalgic, neighborhood feel. The Magic Tree, which greets drivers entering the city just off 470 Highway, has become somewhat of a city icon during the Christmas season.

History is alive and well in the Hyde Park, Valentine and Plaza districts

PHOTOS BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Since the 1800s, the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, situated near Armour and Gillham near Westport, has seen a revival over the past years. This tree-lined neighborhood offers homes reminiscent

of times gone by, featuring architectural styles predominately of three kinds: modifications of Colonial revival in brick, stone, and occasionally all-frame; the Kansas City “Shirtwaist� Style house with stone or brick lower story and frame upper, often with a bellcast gable roof; and bungalows. Other styles represented are Victorian Romanesque, Queen Anne, Shingle Style, and Prairie School Style.

Its close proximity to the Country Club Plaza, built by famed real estate developer J.C. Nichols, makes it ideal for city dwellers who want to live the true Kansas City lifestyle. With 15 blocks lined with over 150 of the most exclusive shops in the world, and dozens of fine restaurants, The Plaza is world renowned. Such events as the Plaza Art Fair, the spectacular Plaza lights that shine through the holiday season, and the Plaza bunnies that dot the streets each spring for Easter make this locale unmatched. Apartments and homes in and around the area are some of the most prized pieces of real estate in the city.

The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art is a short few blocks away, where over 500,000 visitors annually are greeted by the famed giant shuttlecock on the front lawn scape, and entranced by the over 35,000 works of art within.

The Plaza is also bordered by the Valentine neighborhood, which is also steeped in historic value. These homes bring families of all ages who treasure the woodwork and etched glass, not to mention the close neighborhood feeling that prevails from front porch t to front porch.

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Continued

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Distinctive Neighborhoods

Westward HO

Overland Park and downtown Overland park offer impressive neighborhoods Overland Park, Kansas, is home to an excellent school district, and a suburb with plenty to offer. Downtown Overland Park is the natural choice for maintenance-free, urban-style living in a trendy suburban community. Just minutes from both I-35 and I-435, it combines the area’s most unique and eclectic mix of shopping, dining, entertainment and services - just steps away from your front door.Whether you’re looking for a penthouse suite or rooftop patio overlooking the farmers market and 54

Olathe, Kansas, the second largest of the 21 communities in prosperous Johnson County, is the fourth largest city in the state. Just 20 miles southwest of downtown KC, it offers an exceptional lifestyle. Attractive neighborhoods and a pleasing community complement one of the best school systems in the nation. Popular for hot-air ballooning and sailboarding, Olathe has two public lakes, Olathe Lake and Cedar Lake. A quality lifestyle is inviting to anyone desiring a lovely city close to the metro.

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

Going west in the Kansas City surrounding area offers a wellspring of rich experiences, with many activities, sights and welcoming neighborhoods.

The town of Shawnee, Kansas, is a short drive, and is not only a nice suburban area, with museums and shopping, but features Shawnee Town. This is an interactive place where visitors of all ages learn what it was like to live in Shawnee in 1929. Engaging and thoughtful tours, exhibits and programs will allow visitors to experience a typical day in and around the farm town of Shawnee in 1929.

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clock tower concert venue or a townhome with courtyard, you’ll find the ultimate downtown living. Historic downtown Overland Park features the quaint Clock Tower Plaza, and over 300 locally owned shops, a farmer’s market and events like 3rd Fridays.

The Corporate Woods business district, Oak Park Mall and Metcalf South Shopping Center are hubs of activity in Overland Park. The Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead draws visitors of all ages to tour the 1900s turn-of-the-century farm with petting zoo and activities. And parks and green spaces make this city an t ideal suburb.

Calling all NASCAR fans! Kansas City, Kansas, is home to one of the most popular racetracks in the nation, the Kansas Speedway. This world class racing track, just 15 miles west of downtown, opened in 2001. Since then, millions of fans have had the time of their life in the over 73,000 seats surrounding the 1.5 mile track. RV camping makes the experience even more memorable, as does the Hollywood Casino that overlooks turn two of the track. Village West, adjacent to the Speedway, is a 400-acre retail, dining and entertainment district that happens to be the most visited tourist destination in the state of Kansas, with 10 million visitors annually.

Lawrence, Kansas, west down K10 Highway, is home to the champion Kansas University Jayhawks, and offers the best of what a college town is about. Restaurants, concerts, events and outdoor activities abound. The Free State Brewery and the historic Eldridge Hotel are just two of the many landmarks in this storied town. It’s definitely worth a day trip or even could be your ideal home.

Welcome

Home

www.THEHAyHOwGROup.C Om www.THEHAy HOwGROup.COm

Georgiane Hayhow REALTOR & Team Leader (913) 915-3186 G@TheHayhowGroup.com

THE HAyHOw GROup KAnsAs CiTy RELOCATiOn spECiALisTs (913) 915-3186 we love our city and we’d love to show you around. Let us take you on a tour to introduce the neighborhoods, cultural attractions and icons of this great city. we’re here to help make your move smooth and seamless.

Distinctive Neighborhoods Experience Downtown KC, with the creative Crossroads and River Market

PHOTOS BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

The Downtown areas of Kansas City rival any city in our United States with art, mixed use neighborhoods, a blend of venues and styles and a city pride that spans generations. Its emergence in entrepreneurial growth and smart city technology are making the news and the momentum is gathering.Venues such as the Sprint Center, the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts and the Power and Light District have made for quite a renaissance.

Living here means walking or jogging to work, to the grocery store or to any number of restaurants.

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One Light Apartments, the first new apartment complex built downtown since 1978, offers spectacular downtown views through floor-to-ceiling glass walls in all 307 apartments. Hundreds of residents have moved into the tower at 50 E. 13th Street, enamored by the luxury amenities, including a spectacular rooftop pool and many common areas, including a theater and game room. Plans are already underway to build Two Light.

small-scale grocers, bakeries, home décor, dentists, pet stores, yoga studios, banks, movie theaters, printing services and coffee shops.

The Crossroads district, centrally located near Downtown, Crown Center, Union Station and the River Market, features everything from live music to performance art. Now home to over 2,000 residents, the Crossroads is a fully functioning neighborhood with

The River Market is a riverfront neighborhood in Kansas City that comprises the first and oldest incorporated district in Kansas City, officially named a Historical District by the US Department of Interior in the late 70s. Over the years, the River Market has also been coined Westport Landing, the City Market and River Quay.

The new streetcar provides easy access to Downtown, the Crossroads and the River Market. The monthly 1st Fridays event has become a regional favorite, drawing up to 10,000 for the evening of food trucks, street performers, art gallery exhibits and music.

This vigorous and exciting neighborhood, has large riverfront warehouses being developed into residential lofts, with restaurants, bars, shops, cafés and ethnic markets. Several firms have recently relocated into the district, including Populous, one of the world’s leading sports architecture firms. Major attractions here are The City Market’s Farmers’ Market, the largest farmers’ market in the region, which brings “Farm to Table” right to the heart of the city with fresh produce and goods on Saturday and Sunday. The Arabia Steamboat Museum displays thousands of artifacts from a steamboat and its cargo that sunk nearby in 1856 and was recovered in 1987-88.

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PHOTOS BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

The Country Club District offers unmatched living options in Mission Hills, Prairie Village, Leawood, Westwood and Fairway The group of neighborhoods comprising a historic upscale residential district in Kansas City, Missouri, and Johnson County, Kansas, is known fondly as the Country Club District. The district, also the brain child of J.C. Nichols, was developed in stages between 1906 and 1950, and today is home to approximately 60,000 and includes such well-known Kansas City neighborhoods as Sunset Hill and Brookside in Missouri, Mission Hills, Fairway, and the oldest parts of Prairie Village in Kansas, making it the largest planned community built by a single developer in the United States. Ward Parkway, a wide, manicured boulevard, is the main thoroughfare through the district, running south from the Country Club Plaza, the first suburban shopping district in the United States.

Mission Hills, Kansas, has been a neighborhood of high distinction since J.C. Nichols developed it in the 1920s as a part of his Country Club district plan.

Located on the Kansas/Missouri State Line,

homeowners here enjoy membership in the three country clubs and golf courses.Together, the three clubs, Kansas City, Mission Hills and Indian Hills, have become the most prestigious in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Mission Hills is ranked third by Forbes list of America’s most affluent neighborhoods, and is home to some of the most opulent homes on large lots. George Brett,Tom Watson and Kevin Harlan make this their home.

Another richly storied neighborhood envisioned by J.C. Nichols is Prairie Village, Kansas, another planned community neighboring the Country Club Plaza. These quaint homes line treed streets, with easy access to everything Kansas City has to offer. The school systems in these Johnson County subdivisions are the top in the nation, and Prairie Village has been named one of the best subdivisions in the region by the Kansas City Star. There is plenty to do, with a large neighborhood pool complex, art galleries, restaurants and

events throughout the year that bring community spirit to life.

Leawood, Kansas, is a bit further into Kansas, offering the sought-after Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission School districts to families. Residents can enjoy the aquatic center, lovely parks, Ironhorse Championship Golf Course and events planned by the Leawood Arts Council.

The Westwood and Fairway communities in Kansas are also neighborhoods of distinction that draw every age of resident who enjoys suburban living in a delightfully interactive setting. The City of Fairway, incorporated in 1949, is a beautiful residential community in Northeast Johnson County. With nearly 4,000 residents and nearly 1800 homes and 100 businesses, Fairway is a small, but significant city. Westwood is a quaint community also nestled in the far northeast corner of Johnson County. Near Rainbow Boulevard and Mission Road, its homes are reminiscent of the cultural t ideals of the mid 1900’s.

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Continued PHOTOS BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Distinctive Neighborhoods Eastward HO A quick jaunt east of the city offers rolling landscapes, horses, quaint country communities and sports.

Of course, this means the Missouri Mavericks championship hockey team in Independence. They play at the Independence Events Center, which is also home to a number of events through the year. The Missouri Mavericks, owned by Lamar Hunt Jr., son of Kansas City Chiefs founder, Lamar Hunt, are entering into their seventh season as a professional hockey franchise in Independence, and made the playoffs appearances in each of their first five seasons, including winning the 2014 Bud Poile Governor’s Cup, capping off a season of franchise record regular-season wins (44).

Now as part of the ECHL, the Mavericks compete in the “Central Division” of the ECHL for a spot in the Kelly Cup Playoffs.

The I-70/470 corridor has become a central part of the suburb of Independence. This area is conveniently located and has expanded with the Stoney Creek development, featuring the popular Bass Pro Shops and a wide variety of restaurants. Golf courses, including Stone Canyon and Shoal Creek, provide quantities of green space in this historic suburb. Many apartment complexes, office complexes, subdivisions and office parks make Independence a viable living area near the city. Events such as Santi Cali Gon Days are renowned.

Blue Springs is renowned for its Adams Dairy Parkway commercial area, with a plethora of restaurant options, Home Depot, Walmart, Kohl’s and other shopping offerings.

Its excellent education options and high school sports teams have earned state honors yearly. Close to the metro and a coveted address, city pride is alive and well in historic downtown Blue Springs. Annual events include the Fall Funfest and others.

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Strawberry Hill in Kansas City, Kansas, is steeped in tradition

explore, and unique restaurants draw daily visitors wishing to learn and enjoy the cultural influence.

This ethnic neighborhood draws on its European influence and tradition, with generations of families living in historic, majestic homes handed down through years past. Immigrants from Croatia, Germany, Ireland, Russia, Serbia, Slovenia, and Sweden settled the Strawberry Hill neighborhood in the late 19th Century.

The community remains rooted in its Slavic heritage even today. The area, on the bluffs overlooking the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers, continues to thrive and grow. The Strawberry Hill Fall Festival draws folks who wish to experience the flavor, music and crafts of this rich suburban enclave.

The museum and cultural center is located in a sprawling building ready to

Once such beloved place to find unique treats is Strawberry Hill Povitica Company, located in the heart of Strawberry Hill. In 1984, with the written recipe of his beloved mother, and her “secrets,” Harley opened the shop. Povitica has been a staple at holiday and family gatherings for generations. When given as a gift to people outside your family, it was meant as a sign of respect. As time has gone on, the tradition of baking Povitica has become a dying art form.

Here, that tradition lives on with the help of a few dedicated people who still use their Grandmother’s recipe. This Povitica is shipped around the world. Free tours of the bakery are available, and include a free sample and free cup of coffee.

PHOTOS BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

North Kansas City has a variety of areas, each unique, including Parkville, Weston, Liberty, Smithville and Gladstone In the heart of the greater metropolitan area, North Kansas City possesses an atmosphere of small town hospitality and tradition coupled with access to high-tech services and a wealth of recreational and cultural activities. Chappelle’s Restaurant and Sports Museum is something to experience. Not to mention proximity to KCI Airport and North Kansas City Hospital. Growth has been phenomenal in this area, which expands to Parkville.

Historic Downtown Parkville, overlooking the Missouri River, is a haven for shops, each offering a unique shopping experience.

Whether you’re looking for art, antiques, one of a kind boutiques, gadgets, home decor, fashion, embellishments, or collectibles, you’ll find it. Such events as the Annual Parkville River Jam and Parkville Microbrew Fest at English Landing Park are huge draws of all ages.

In Weston, locally produced wine, beer, and distilled spirits, and a pub in the underground vaults of an 1840’s brewery are sights to behold. There’s a state park on the bluffs of the Missouri River where Lewis and Clark walked, with beautiful views, trails, picnic and camping sites.

Liberty, as do all of the North KC neighborhoods, offers an excellent school system, with restaurants, a historic downtown and restaurants aplenty. Smithville and Gladstone each possess a personality, with Richville’s family-friendly community on the shores of the 7,200 acre Smithville Lake with its boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming opportunities.

Alongside the lake is the Paradise Pointe Golf Complex with its two challenging 18-hole courses.

Gladstone’s suburban community is known for excellent proximity 10 miles from the airport, and schools and art and community events that make life peaceful and eventful. n KC RELO

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It’s not just about finding a house . . .

Look for SAB Homes in these Subdivisions ~Or feel free to choose your own~

Missouri South

Creekmoor Villas at Creekmoor • Eagle Creek Monticello Siena at Longview • Coming Soon: Summit View Farm Winterset Valley Woodland Trails

Kansas

Colton Lakes South Greens at Prairie Highlands StoneBridge Park Timber Ridge • •

Maintenance Provided Communities

Missouri North

Benson Place Fieldstone Benson Place Village • Cider Mill at the National Woodneath Farms

It’s about finding a

home

Building Award-Winning Homes for over 28 Years Experience what customer service truly is when you build your dream home with SAB Homes.

816.524.3855 SABHomes.com

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Rich in HISTORY. Rich in

F PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

rom Kansas City barbecue to a livestock event spanning an entire month, and from a visionary land developer to Kansas City melodious jazz sounds, Kansas City’s history is rich and colorful. Thanks to the many visionaries who gave their special gifts to the area, you will soon discover just a few reasons why Kansas City is such a vibrant place to live.

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PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

n BY LONNY COHEN

Tradition.

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

The Taste…the smell – Kansas City Barbecue Two of the oldest barbecue restaurants in the area can be traced back to Henry Perry, known as the “father of Kansas City barbecue.”

KANSAS CITY CONTINUES TO BE THE MECCA FOR GOOD BARBECUE.

PHOTO BY AMERICAN ROYAL ASSOCIATION

After a stint in the steamboat business, Perry moved to Kansas City in 1907, and that move put Kansas City on the map to become the ‘Barbecue Capitol of the World.” Landing a job as a porter in a local saloon, Porter started selling smoked meats to workers in the alley close to the saloon where he worked.With a following and a confidence in his abilities, Perry opened a restaurant in a trolley car near 10th & Vine, in 1910. His menu included twentyfive cent slabs of ribs and other beef specialties along with possum, woodchuck and raccoon.

Charlie Bryant worked for Perry as a cook.When Perry died in 1946, he left his restaurant to Bryant who sold the business to his brother Arthur who renamed the restaurant Arthur Bryant’s and moved it to 17th and Brooklyn. The restaurant is still in its original location and continues to host celebrities, sport figures and politicians when visiting the City.

Following Perry’s death, former cook Arthur Pinkhard joined forces with his friend George Gates to open Gates and Son’s Bar-B-Que. Today their restaurant has locations throughout the city.

Kansas City continues to be the mecca for good barbecue. As a newcomer to the area, you will talk to many people who will tell you that they know who has the best barbecue. The fun of being a newcomer is t finding out for yourself.

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PHOTO BY AMERICAN ROYAL ASSOCIATION

PHOTO BY AMERICAN ROYAL ASSOCIATION

Rich in History. Rich in Tradition. Continued

THE AMERICAN ROYAL DRAWS THOUSANDS EACH YEAR TO THE MONTH-LONG EVENT.

From its humble beginnings to today – The American Royal What was once the hub of cattle trading in the area is now the home to one of the biggest events in the City – The American Royal.

PHOTO BY AMERICAN JAZZ MUSEUM

Originally called the National Hereford Show in 1899, the show was designed to move livestock. The American Royal draws thousands each year to the month-long event.

Through the years The American Royal has grown and today includes a horse show that attracts the top riders from around the country competing in major competitions. Additionally, the American Pro Rodeo and, the World Series of Barbecue Competition were added to the festivities. Events are centered around the whole family drawing tens of thousands to the annual American Royal Parade. For those who like to tap their toes to country music, top country musical entertainers rock the house at sold-out

concerts. Whether you are a cowboy or not, The American Royal, as it has been for many years, is a time to get your cowboy on.

And all that jazz.

Bill “Count” Basie, Mary Lou Williams, Charlie Parker, Pat Metheny, and Sonny Kenner are just a few of the people who have been part of the Kansas City Jazz scene.

While New Orleans was the birthplace of jazz, Kansas City put its special spin on jazz when it was first heard in the 1920s. It surged during the 1930s when Kansas City was run by political boss Tom Pendergast.

Under Pendergast, the city was in an economic boom and musicians moved to Kansas City to find work.While prohibition was a sign of the times throughout the t

WHILE NEW ORLEANS WAS THE BIRTHPLACE OF JAZZ, KANSAS CITY PUT ITS SPECIAL SPIN ON JAZZ WHEN IT WAS FIRST HEARD IN THE 1920S.

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PHOTO BY AMERICAN JAZZ MUSEUM

PHOTO BY AMERICAN JAZZ MUSEUM

Rich in History. Rich in Tradition. Continued

country, it did not exist in Kansas City and this phenomenon allowed jazz clubs to open and prosper in the area.

While this golden age of Jazz no longer exists today, Kansas City Jazz continues to be heard throughout the city. Kansas City is home to the American Jazz Museum, which opened in 1997. The museum, located in the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, has done an exceptional job of highlighting the sights and sounds of the jazz legends as well as modern-day jazz.

Let’s go shopping!

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Besides the shopping at the many unique stores and eating at the extraordinary restaurants, plan to take a walking tour to see the architecture, statues and fountains that make this shopping area as unique today as it was nearly 100 years ago. n

Finally...

No history is complete without looking at some of the Kansas Citians who have left their mark on Kansas City and the rest of the country! Thank you Harry S. Truman, Amelia Earhart, Don Cheadle, Walt Disney, Richard and Henry Block, Robert Altman, Thomas Hart Benton, Joan Crawford, Donald Hall, Buck O’Neil, Ernest Hemmingway, George Brett, Tom Watson, Ginger Rogers, Paul Rudd, Eric Stonestree, Bob Riggle, Jason Sudeikis, Jesse James, George Caleb Bingham, Dee Wallace, Chris Cooper, Kate Spade, John Kander plus many, many more.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Today, shopping centers are the norm, but in 1922, Kansas City was the home to the first shopping center in the world – The Country Club Plaza.

Designed to accommodate visitors who arrived by automobile, The Country Club Plaza was developed by Kansas City visionary developer Jesse Clyde Nichols, (Known as JC Nichols) and was patterned after the high-end shopping districts in Seville, Spain. Encompassing about 55 acres, during planning,the project met extreme criticism, but when it opened, the area was an immediate success and has continued that success.

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Are You Ready?

We Are! You asked, We listened.

Kansas City’s newest home designs are ready for their BIG reveal!

Be Inspired | Build Inspired | Live Inspired LENEXA:

The Reserve

from the upper 200’s Rob (913)205-8358

OLATHE:

Huntford

from the upper 200’s Amy (816)665-5122

sales@inspired-homes.com LEE’S SUMMIT:

LEE’S SUMMIT:

Kessler Ridge

Kensington Farms

from the low 300’s Danielle (913)302-8810

Learn more about our new plans at www.inspired-homes.com

from the low 200’s Whitney (816)686-1597

Ins& Outs OF GETTING AROUND n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

I

f you are moving from an area with long commutes, do not expect them here. As a newcomer, the ease of getting around Kansas City is another great perk that you will enjoy. Highways and city streets are prominently marked so you will not miss your highway exit and you will easily find the street you are looking for.

At first glance, you may notice a lot of highway and road construction, but you do not need to worry. Delays through these areas are minimal and will usually only increase your commute by a matter of minutes.

Kansas City has a highway that encircles the city. Thanks to Interstate 435, an 83-mile two state beltway encircling the Kansas City metropolitan area, you will find that you will be able to get from Independence to Overland Park and from Parkville to Lee’s Summit using this loop. t

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NUMBER ONE R E A L E S TAT E OFFICE IN

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Our philosophy is simple, “Average is unacceptable,” which is why we provide a boutique one-of-a-kind experience. We know relocation and understand it’s much more than just real estate.

Ins & outs OF GETTING AROUND Continued PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

NEW UPSCALE LIVING IN

PRAIRIE VILLAGE What was once a 136-acre golf course and country club is now Meadowbrook Park, a new vision for a community blending luxury, privacy and classic architecture within the setting of an 84-acre public park, centrally located lakes and meandering trails.

Featuring mature trees, courtyards and parklettes, Meadowbrook Park, is located in the heart of Prairie Village, Kansas between Somerset Drive and 95th Street and between Roe and Nall.

Meadowbrook’s two upscale maintenance-provided residential neighborhoods are a mix of single-family homes and twin villa homes by five of Kansas City’s finest builders.

The single-family homes in Meadowbrook Park feature modern interpretations of classic architecture. Each home is designed and built for exclusive upscale living with first floor master suites, quality craftsmanship and the highest attention to detail. The singlefamily homes in Meadowbrook Park are custom designed by Ambassador Construction, Holthaus Building, Inc., Lambie Custom Homes and RM Standard Construction.

Exclusively built by Tom French Construction, the Twin Villas are luxury residences with courtyards allowing living space to flow into beautifully landscaped terraces and outdoor spaces.

For more information:

Helping you get from your new home to your new job, school or entertainment destination are the highways that intersect with I-435 including I-35, 1-29, I-470, I-635,K-10, 350 Highway, US 69, US 50 and US 40. Once you have lived here for a while, you will soon realize that these highways are great ways to get to your destination whether it’s just a few miles away or it is across the city.

To help take some of the stress out of your commute is the Kansas City Area’s bi-state management system, KC Scout. Developed by the Kansas and Missouri departments of transportation (KDOT, MoDOT) , KC Scout is designed to lessen traffic jams by improving rush-hour speeds, to increase safety by decreasing the number of rush-hour accidents, and to improve emergency response to traffic situations.

Using cameras and sensors to monitor the more than 125 miles of continuous t

Single Family Homes 913-800-0232 Twin Villas 913-333-1313

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT GETTING YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE IN KANSAS, VISIT WWW. KSREVENUE.ORG AND IN MISSOURI, VISIT WWW.DOR.MO.GOV.

W W W.LIVE IN MEADOWBROOK.COM 74

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EXPERIENCE LIFE AT

MEADOWBROOK PARK W W W.LIVE IN MEADOWBROOK.COM

UPSCALE LIVING IN THE HEART OF PRAIRIE VILLAGE SURROUNDED BY 84 -ACRE MEADOWBROOK PARK

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES (913) 800-0232

TWIN VILLA HOMES (913) 333-1313 A VANTRUST REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

Ins & outs OF GETTING AROUND Continued

TO HELP TAKE SOME OF THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR COMMUTE IS THE KANSAS CITY AREA’S BI-STATE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, KC SCOUT.

highways in the Greater Kansas City Area, KC Scout uses large electronic message boards to send urgent traffic notices to drivers along the freeways, and activates a Highway Advisory Radio system that motorists in Missouri can tune to in the event of a highway incident. For more information about KC Scout or to download the app, visit, www.kcscout.net.

If you would like to let someone else do the driving, there are numerous options in the area. Buses in both the Missouri and Kansas sides of the state line are clean and dependable; and you will find that 76

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riding a bus can be extremely economical and will take you to almost everywhere you want to go.

Riding with Uber is one of the Kansas City area’s newest transportation options. With a smart phone app, users can book their requests; and know that within minutes their ride is available. Using the Uber service is a perfect option for your daily life or a night on the town.

Finally, if you enjoy using a bicycle as a mode of transportation, you are in luck as the area is very bike friendly with many t

Ins & outs OF GETTING AROUND Continued cities throughout the area developing bicycle master plans: and bike lanes are the norm in many neighborhoods.

Kansas City’s B-Cycle Bike Share is a new great way to maneuver through the area. With more stations planned, presently, there are 27 bike rental stations serving Downtown KC, Westport, The Country Club Plaza, 18th and Vine and the Trolley Track Trail. Costs for the Bike Share include a membership and a usage fee. For more information, visit www.kansascity.bicycle.com. n

CLIFF SPENCE 43 Years of Experience

You’ll Benefit from a Realtor with 43 Years of Experience in the Johnson County and KC Metro Area With more than 3,000 homes sold in the Greater Kansas City Area, Realtor Cliff Spence continues to exceed his homebuyer’s expectations while making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

ReMax Best Associates 8585 College Blvd. Suite 100 Overland Park, Kansas 66210 (913) 710-4462

• GRI Graduate • CRS Certified Residential Specialist • The Five Star Award Recipient (six years) • Realtor Masters Club • Founding Member of the Realtor Emeritus Scholarship Fund • Better Business Bureau Rating A+

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PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE PARKING YOUR CAR AND BOARDING THE NEW KANSAS CITY STREETCAR...

Explore Your New City

ON THE

KC Streetcar n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

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PHOTO BY KANSAS CITY STREETCAR AUTHORITY PHOTO BY KANSAS CITY STREETCAR AUTHORITY

Then take in the sights along the way and come back to Crown Center for delights at the American Restaurant, Milano Italian Restaurant, d’Bronx Deli, The Crayola Cafe and more. The Mayor’s Christmas tree lighting is a must see, and an ideal time to ride the Streetcar.

PHOTO BY KANSAS CITY STREETCAR AUTHORITY

Make a day of it! Begin at Crown Center with excellent shopping and Lego Land, plus Hall’s Kansas City, and some delights from Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamery, and then board the street car and head to City Market to the Farmer’s Market for your fresh veggies. Open Saturday and Sunday mornings, fresh foods from our area are showcased in a big way.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

When you board, you can load your bicycle, wheelchair or stroller into the middle car if need be. It is free to ride, and travels the two miles through the heart of downtown and connects to Ride KC buses at either end of the route, and at the 10th and Main Transit Center. A wellspring of discovery awaits you.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY KANSAS CITY STREETCAR AUTHORITY

T

here’s nothing like parking your car and boarding the new Kansas City Streetcar, which took to the rails in 2016. It is a vision that has come to creative fruition by city leaders to help draw people to the vibrant downtown areas overflowing with food, fun, shopping and entertainment.

Or, begin your trip at Union Station, where you can either spend a couple hours watching a 3D movie, or grab a treat at Pierponts or Rocky Mount Chocolate Factory. Parisi Coffee is a perfect pair to any of this, and Science City brings in popular exhibits to peruse for ages one to 101.

The Power & Light District will be a visit you’ll not want to miss. Be sure and check ahead for all the many free concerts and events that take place throughout the year.

Then, ride a little further down the line and land in the Crossroads Arts District, where you can visit any one of the number of fooderies along the path, such as Torn Label Brewing t

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Meadowbrook Villas is an exclusive enclave of 70 luxury twin villas nestled in the redeveloped Meadowbrook Golf Course and Country Club in Prairie Village, KS. This `close in` community, renamed Meadowbrook Park, is a mixed use residential neighborhood with 80+ acres of park land and walking trails.

The Tom French villas are part of the master plan, located at 92nd and Nall Avenue, that promotes a true sense of neighborhood with connectivity to nature.

Please call 913-333-1313 for additional information.

Explore Your New City ON THE KC Streetcar

City icon. Lidia Bastianich is a best-selling cookbook author and Emmy awardwinning public television host.

Make a night of it and enrich your cultural aura with KC Ballet at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, or the Kansas City Symphony and any number of attractions drawn to our downtown. First Fridays, a popular artist gathering and

PHOTO BY KANSAS CITY STREETCAR AUTHORITY

Company, or Tom’s Town Distilling Company, or Extra Virgin KC, or Café Gratitude for libations and enticing fare.

And don’t miss Grinders, which draws and eclectic mix of artist and musicians to its stage and more. Coffee has taken on infamous status in Kansas City, and Thou Mayest Coffee Roasters does not disappoint. Smokestack barbecue is mouthwatering, and Lidia’s is a Kansas

Continued

entertainment event that draws thousands the first Friday of each month, is a fun time to ride the Streetcar, where you’ll meet other creative spirits and adventurers.

Patti Meier recently moved to the Olde Westport area in midtown Kansas City, and while she works from home, her work has often involved travel to other cities across the country. She has ridden the streetcar on several occasions, initially to just see what it was like and how it compares to streetcars in other cities and more recently to avoid downtown or river market parking.

“The streetcar is a great way to quickly travel from Union Station or the Crossroads to the River Market. Along the way my husband and I have seen and tried out coffee shops, Brioche Pastry Shop and Tom’s Town Distillery,” Patty says.

“We’ve also found shops unique to Kansas City that we love, especially Gallup Map! We’re Airbnb hosts and encourage our out-of-town guests to ride the streetcar.

Guests have really enjoyed the free transportation and the ability to hop on Pr e Mo -Bo re re ok ce In a M ad o Lim Ive va nt ite $ h d- 20 n tim 0 c o eo o e & r ffe ff r *

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and off as they explore Kansas City from Union Station to the River Market and everywhere in between.”

Plan your trip and write your own story about your Streetcar adventure! It is one you’ll want to add to again and again.

PHOTOS BY KANSAS CITY STREETCAR AUTHORITY

Visit kcstreetcar.org for all the information to help you plan your Streetcar experience. n

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Moving your

Pets n BY TIA KEENE

Y

ou will be happy to know that Kansas City is extremely petfriendly. Animal-centered events and parks, businesses catering to animals and rescue programs are just some of the reasons your pet will enjoy the move to the area.

Additionally, with one of the best Veterinary schools in the country just hours away at K-State, you will reap the benefits of this program with extremely talented veterinarians practicing throughout the area.

Whether your pet is furred, finned or feathered, it is always important to take the correct measures when you are relocating them. Knowing the proper way to introduce your pet to this stressful event can save you from the impending chaos that would otherwise ensue.

Your best bet is to go about your daily routine with your pet as much as possible. Make sure that you are feeding, exercising, and playing with your pet as you normally would.

Another great idea is to ask a friend if they would pet-sit while you are packing up. Since pets do not respond to change very well, keeping them away from the home while you are making the transition is ideal.

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If you are flying, you will want to get your pet ready for the flight a month ahead of time. Get your pet familiar with its insulated carrier so that it recognizes it as a safe place. Placing your pet in the carrier at night and rewarding them with a treat is a good way to convince them.

Favorite toys and blankets are also great ways of letting your pet know that its carrier is not so bad.

Ask if your airline provides a carrying service for your pet. If so, leave a note stating any specific instructions in

addition to information like when your pet last ate, drank or went to the bathroom.

If you are traveling by vehicle, make sure you make rest stops often so your pet can stretch its legs, and always make sure that food and water is available.

Make sure you know where veterinary hospitals are in your new area. It’s a good idea to take your pet for a checkup before you travel. This will ensure that your pet is in good health during the duration of the trip and long after. n

Dog parks in the area: Help Your Dog Make New Friends KANSAS Heritage Dog Park 159th & Pflumm Road Kill Creek Park 33460 West 95th Shawnee Mission Park 7900 Renner Road Thomas Stoll Dog Park 12500 West 119th

Olathe, Kansas DeSoto, Kansas Shawnee, Kansas Overland Park, Kansas

MISSOURI Blue Springs Dog Park Elkhound Ranch Dog Park Fairmount Park Off Leash Happy Trails Off Leash James A Reed Off Leash Liberty Dog Park Longview Lake Dog Park Penn Valley Off Leash

Blue Springs, Missouri Kansas City, Missouri Independence, Missouri Lee’s Summit, Missouri Lee’s Summit, Missouri Liberty, Missouri Kansas City, Missouri Kansas City, Missouri

20th North of Jefferson Street 9205 N. Brooklyn Avenue 300 North Home Avenue 1251 SE Ranson Road 13101 SE Ranson Road 901 S. La Frenz 11100 View High Drive 29th & Wyandotte

The

Trailing Spouse n BY TIA KEENE

The Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area is home to tons of employers, making it a great place to relocate to, especially for the trailing spouse.

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hen opportunity knocks, many find that relocation is a must.

In the midst of uprooting everything, the trailing spouse must begin the search for a new job. The Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area is home to tons of employers, making it a great place to relocate to, especially for the trailing spouse.

Finding a job can be an intimidating undertaking. By utilizing resources and services available to you, you can eliminate some of the stress often associated with job hunting.You can begin your job search by utilizing the Internet and other sources such as local newspapers. This will help give you an idea of who is hiring, what they want from their future employee, and what they can offer to you. Local papers such as The Kansas City Star offer their job listings online, as well as in print, so as a trailing spouse, you can begin your job search right away.

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Working with the area Chambers of Commerce and local employment agencies can also be of great help to you.You should be apprehensive about any employment agencies that charge a fee for their services, and you should always consider using more than one. This way you are branching out into several different job arenas.

By becoming associated with the Kansas City Area Chambers of Commerce, you will be introduced to several business owners and leaders throughout the Kansas City area community. Contacts are valuable resources when it comes to finding a job for the trailing spouse.

This could be of the utmost importance

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR RESUME UPDATED AND THAT YOU ALLOW ACCESS TO YOUR INFORMATION ON THE WEB.

when searching for a job, because any connections you make can be beneficial.

A temporary position can be a great way to begin networking and developing contacts and references. They can even act as gateways to more permanent positions in the future. Temporary positions can be beneficial, as they will allow you to generate some cash flow and keep your skills set sharp.

It is very important that you keep your resume updated and that you allow access to your information on the Web. Some of the best sites for maintaining business relationships and gaining new contacts are LinkedIn and Facebook. By keeping your connections open, you will have a better chance at finding a job that is right for you as a trailing spouse.

Remembering these key points can make all the difference when it comes to your job search. With all of the changes that relocating your family can bring, being prepared and knowing the right paths to take will help you, the trailing spouse, find exactly what you are looking for.

By taking simple steps, such as utilizing today’s Internet conveniences, staying current and getting more familiar with your community, you can be another step closer to a great job. n

THE TRAILING SPOUSE RESOURCE BOOK KANSAS AREA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Leawood Chamber of Commerce leadwoodchamber.org (913) 498-1514 Lenexa Chamber of Commerce lenexa.org (913) 888-1414 Olathe Chamber of Commerce olathe.org (913) 764-1050 Overland Park Chamber of Commerce opchamber.org (913) 491-3600 Shawnee Chamber of Commerce shawneechamber.com (913) 631-6545 Lawrence Chamber of Commerce lawrencechamber.com (785) 865-4411 MISSOURI AREA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Kansas City Chamber of Commerce kcchamber.com (816) 221-2424 Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce lschamber.com (816) 524-2424 Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce northlandchamber.com (816) 455-9911 Raymore Chamber of Commerce raymorechamber.com (816) 322-5599

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PHOTO BY COTTONWOOD CANYON PHOTO BY COTTONWOOD CANYON PHOTO BY CEDAR CREEK

Live YOUR

Green

Lifestyle

n BY LONNY COHEN

D

o you enjoy playing golf but does the long drive to the golf course take the fun out of your golf game?

If you answered yes to these and other questions about your lifestyle, then it might be time to look for a home in a lifestyle community. These communities offer you the perks that go well beyond your property line.

Describing Cedar Creek, a lifestyle community in Olathe, Len Boxler says that living in the community offers residents the opportunity to come home to a vacation every day.With sprawling acres of rolling hills, limestone bluffs, treed valleys, tranquil lakes and undisturbed greenspace, Cedar Creek offers residents swimming pools, tennis courts, indoor t

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Live YOUR Green Lifestyle Continued PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

gymnasium, jogging and walking trails along with an 18-hole award-winning golf course.

Your vacationing at home can also be found North of the River at Cider Mill Ridge at the National in Parkville, Missouri, which offers lifestyle options for families as well as empty-nesters who are finding their new homes in the development that was designed to utilize the green space with a park in the middle of the community, says Dale Brouk, “We stress the importance of a happier, healthier lifestyle.”

Residents can join the National Golf Club or its sister Club, The National II or take advantage of the many community amenities including swimming, walking and exercise trails, children’s playground and much more.

PHOTO BY CREEKMOOR PHOTO BY CEDAR CREEK

PHOTO BY CREEKMOOR

There are many factors to consider when choosing your new home community – near your job, quality schools, nearby t

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Be a part of something special.

Visit our New Furnished Models Single Family Homes

816-331-0754 Club Villas

816-490-5444

MORE THAN A COMMUNITY.

It’s a lifestyle.

$300s-$700s • 18-hole championship golf course • 108-acre lake with private dock opportunities • State-of-the-art clubhouse & fitness center • Walking and biking paths • Community pool & tennis courts • Award-winning schools • Easy accessibility to highways, shopping, dining & conveniences • Choose from a variety of residences including single family homes and villas • Golf & lakefront home sites available

www.Creekmoor.com

Located 3 miles east of I-49, just north of Hwy. 58 on Foxridge Drive. Or take MO 150 Hwy. east to Kelly Road, south to 155th Street then east to Creekmoor.

Sometimes, you’ll dine out, but not often.

Why would you?

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PHOTO BY CREEKMOOR

Live YOUR Green Lifestyle Continued

If you are looking for tranquility, many of the lifestyle communities throughout the area offer you the dream you are looking for.

For example, Cottonwood Canyon in Lenexa, a golf course community offers the tranquility that many homebuyers are looking for according to development manager, Steve Hughes. Like other lifestyle communities in the area, Hughes explains that their development offers residents the feeling of living in the t 98

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Looking for a home in a luxury golf community with a private course?

CHECK OUT THESE COMMUNITIES! Cedar Creek Hallbrook Lake Quivira Lions Gate Loch Lloyd The National

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

For this reason, many lifestyle communities offer amenities that will appeal to you, no matter what stage of life you are in. Creekmoor in Raymore is a lifestyle community which offers amenities that will appeal to every stage of your life.“This unique, friendly, thriving community offers golf and lake living as well as a state of the art clubhouse and fitness center, pool, tennis and trails.

There is truly something for everyone,� explains Rosemary Vitale, Reece and Nichols Real Estate.

PHOTO BY CEDAR CREEK

shopping but there are other things to consider. It is also important to take a look at how you live. If you are an emptynester, you are going to look for different lifestyle offerings that the young family will find important.

MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING.

Sit Back and Enjoy.

Reservations Now Being Accepted For New Phase

BEST VIEWS IN JOHNSON COUNTY!

Cottonwood Canyon homesites are nestled discreetly among rolling landscape and the beautiful Canyon Farms Golf Club.

With close proximity to Lenexa City Center and the booming I-435 corridor, homeowners enjoy peaceful seclusion without isolation from the amenities of the city.

Ideal home sites starting at $89,000 with picturesque views overlooking the golf course, green space or the lake.

Call us today! 913-492-4444 The WEST community Cottonwood Canyon features many ONE MILE OF I-435ofON 95TH STREET/PRAIRIE STAR PARKWAY AT RIDGEVIEW | LENEXA, KS amenities in addition to beautiful views of the award winning Canyon Farms Golf Club in every direction. www.cottonwoodcanyonks.com Adjacent to the Johnson County Trail System and within close proximity to the 1,660-acre Shawnee Mission Park.

country while still physically living in the city. The open spaces and the physical layout offers residents the tranquility they are looking for.

PHOTO BY CEDAR CREEK

PHOTO BY CREEKMOOR

PHOTO BY COTTONWOOD CANYON

Finally, there is a strong social aspect of living in a community that offers lifestyle amenities including golf, swimming, clubhouse, fitness centers, tennis walking trails and more. As a newcomer to the area, making social connections for you and your family is an added perk you will enjoy for years to come. n

PHOTO BY THE NATIONAL

Live YOUR Green Lifestyle Continued

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S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E NT

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E NT

Water Fun Starts at Midwest Marine.

Since 1999, Midwest Marine has been offering boats, service and expertise to water-loving customers.

Owner, Jay Zimmerman, was partner in another boat dealership, which he sold in 1998 to realize his vision of opening a premierlevel dealership, focusing on quality, not quantity. He and his staff have over fifty years of experience in the industry.

“John and Rick know the questions to ask and are able to help that first-time boat buyer in their quest of buying a boat, new or pre-owned, to make sure we help them get the boat that is a good fit for their family,” Zimmerman said. “We have 430 feet of dock for our customers to walk and enjoy looking at 40 to 45 boats. See for yourself and ‘Come walk the dock.’”

When he says premier, he means they are very selective in the boat brands they choose to represent and sell. They have agreements with boat brands, including Bennington, Bass Cat, Sea Ark and Crownline.

“We have two full-time certified technicians with a combined experience of over 60 years, which means we get you back on the water quickly and correctly the first time, he noted. “With our test

tank, we can run engines to diagnose the issue, saving time and the customer money. We send our techs to school yearly to keep them certified.”

Full-time rigger, Tony, customizes, or rigs, boats. For example, if a customer has a certain depth finder they need installed, a high-end stereo with amp and subs, trolling motor, enclosure, you name it, they can do it.

“I would say our forte is definitely pontoons and tri-toons, which have become popular in the last ten years because they handle the rough water extremely well and can carry ten to seventeen comfortably, many powered with up to a 350 HP outboard,” Zimmerman explained. “Again, rigging these boats is critical and putting the correct props and accessories on these boats is key.”

With price points from $20,000 to over $80,000, Midwest Marine will get you on the water this summer.

“We take pride in your fun!”

Midwest Marine is located at 21500 E. 275th, Harrisonville, MO 64701, and I-49 and 7 Highway. Call them at 816-380-7891, or visit midwestmarineboats.com for more information.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

KANSAS CITY AS

Solidifies Status

Cultural MECCA n BY ERIN ORRICK

W

PHOTO BY DAVID BICKLEY

hile the recent success of the Kansas City Royals has helped pry open the outside world’s eyes to the city’s unique flavor and mid-western charm, the truth is, Kansas City’s cultural and artistic prowess has been on a steep upward tick for the past several years, albeit under the radar. Until now.

Within the past 24 months, Kansas City has garnered an extensive list of boisterous online accolades, with its arts scene receiving the most notable piece of the pie.

Geller LambBudge with the Kansas City Symphony.

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Most recently, Kansas City was named the 19th most vibrant city in the country in the second-annual Arts Vibrancy Index report issued

by Southern Methodist University’s (SMU) National Center for Arts Research. It was the city’s first time appearing on the list. The report takes into account three important factors: arts providers, arts dollars, and government support, all of which Kansas City has generously propelled its creative foot forward.

Actress Heidi Van prepares for her one-woman show, Marilyn/God. PHOTO BY BRIAN PAULETTE

PHOTO BY VISIT KC

Charlie Parker Memorial in the 18th and Vine District.

#19 Most Vibrant City SMU, National Center for Arts Research (2016)

RECENTLY, KANSAS CITY WAS NAMED THE 19TH MOST VIBRANT CITY IN THE COUNTRY.

PHOTO BY VISIT KC

The National Center for Arts Research isn’t the only organization that has taken notice of Kansas City’s cultural flair. Several publications (and their readers) have made the city one of their top choices for yearly prestige:

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

#1 Best U.S. City for Affordable Getaways Travel and Leisure (2016) #3 America’s Best Cities for Foodies Travel and Leisure (2016) #4 America’s 20 Most Cultured Cities Travel and Leisure (2016)

#9 Most Charming City Travel and Leisure (2016) Kansas City’s arts community is home to some impressive company, starting with the prestigious Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which houses one of the few Caravaggio paintings in the U.S. in addition to one of the top Asian art collections in the world.

The city also proudly boasts the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, t

PHOTO BY BRIAN PAULETTE

#9 Friendliest City Travel and Leisure (2016)

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

#6 Six Cities That Offer Better Value For Growing Startups Forbes (2016)

First Friday in the Crossroads in front of the ArtsKC Gallery.

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carpet

tables countertops sofas

loveseats

bunk beds

ellipticals vacuums

desks record players

tablets

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printers

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bar stools camcorders charging stations

printer ink microwaves treadmills futons

mixers space heaters cribs pillows fans loveseats vacuums mirrors music wall décor bedding blinds

movie

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on

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hoods

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mounts sofas

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sectionals

accent chairs headphones printers

wall

computers stoves

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small

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televisions

games sofas

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cameras music record televisions

Don’t let the name fool you. At Nebraska Furniture Mart, we have so much more than furniture. Find the top names and amazing savings in furniture, flooring, appliances and electronics. Replace your outdated coffee pot, get the latest game and create a home that will make your Pinterest board pale in comparison.

nfm.com Convenient Shopping Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10am to 9pm Sunday: 11am to 8pm

Store Location:

1601 Village West Parkway Kansas City, KS 66111

Order by Phone:

local: 913-288-6354 toll-free: 800-407-5000 ©2017 Nebraska Furniture Mart, Inc.

Status AS Cultural MECCA Continued PHOTO BY DAVID BICKLEY

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

KANSAS CITY Solidifies

Nestled comfortably downtown, the Crossroads Arts District is where many local artists call home, whether via their studio, actual home, or both. With a cascade of galleries and one-of-a-kind restaurants meticulously lining the streets, and a quirky artistic aura filling the air, the Crossroads is a prime area of real estate for innovative minds and wonderers alike.

The city’s transformation into an arts hotbed over the past several years is largely in part thanks to the commitment of local businesses and organizations that make a concerted effort to support, cultivate, and advocate for area artists, their work, and the expansion of the city’s cultural landscape. The recognition Kansas City has received on a consistent, national scale has not only confirmed its creative process is working, but also that it is well on its way to artistic n dominance.

Article provided by ArtsKC – Regional Arts Council.

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KANSAS CITY HAS GARNERED AN EXTENSIVE LIST OF BOISTEROUS ONLINE ACCOLADES, WITH ITS ARTS SCENE RECEIVING THE MOST NOTABLE PIECE OF THE PIE.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts, and the Kansas City Symphony in its cultural arsenal. And really, those are just the icing on the creative cake the city offers up on a daily platter.

CrossFirst Bank is dedicated to meeting the financial needs of businesses, professionals and their families.

Recognized as the strongest large bank in Kansas City and an SBA Preferred Lender, CrossFirst Bank is proud to serve some of the area’s most notable clients. Here you will find all of the banking services to meet your business and private banking needs, and enjoy an extraordinary level of personal service.

Extraordinary is a level of service not achieved by accident. We had extraordinary in mind when we set our foundation on the core values of Character, Competence, Commitment and Connection.

At CrossFirst Bank, you will experience extraordinary through authentic relationships, valuable services, and our willingness to search beyond standard answers in accomplishing your goals.

Speak to us about: ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

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✦ Energy Banking ✦ International Services ✦ Private Banking

Serving people in extraordinary ways® 4707 W. 135th Street | Leawood, KS 66224 | 913.327.1212 New in 2017 Country Club Plaza | Kansas City, MO 64111

crossfirstbank.com MEMBER FDIC

Be a part of our award-winning publications in 2018

Lake of the Ozarks Second Home Living Published quarterly

Official Shootout Program Guide Published once a year

Lake Relo Published twice a year

KC Relo Published twice a year

Cabo Living Published three times a year

KC Options Published once a year

For more information about our luxury periodicals, please check out any of our websites.

McCray Lumber & Millwork has the knowledge, experience and services to make your window selections effortless.

Contact Daniel Kennedy to plan your consultation today! dkennedy@mccraymillwork.com

PROPANE BUSES

help Missouri students breathe easier.

AND THEIR PARENTS, TOO.

Lately, not all news about diesel vehicles has been good news. But in some school districts, your students could be riding on quieter, lower-emissions propane buses, which can save the school districts money, as well as enhancing operational safety. Schools could be eligible for VW Environmental Mitigation Trust Fund monies to make the conversion to cleaner-burning propane buses, protecting both student health and district budgets.

Health & Safety:

Cost-saving:

• Propane is proven to lower NOx emissions more than 92% when replacing all older-than model 2007 buses.

• Some districts have saved millions in fuel alone.

• Diesel fumes have been labeled as carcinogenic by the World Health Organization.

• The incremental cost of propane buses, coupled with potential VW Trust Fund monies, may realize immediate payback.

• Research shows diesel exhaust aggravates asthma, particularly in the smaller lungs of children.

To learn more, go to PropaneSchoolBuses.com 4110 Country Club Dr., Jefferson City, MO 65109 | PropaneSchoolBuses.com | Ph: 573/893-7655 Fax: 573/893-2623 TollFree: 800/601-9332

Lake OF THE Ozarks

Special Section

Let our family BUILD for your family.

DESIGN RESIDENTIAL

| |

BUILD COMMERCIAL

Celebrating Our

30Anniversary!

YEAR

573.348.3229

ACCREDITED BUSINESS

5727 Chapel Drive, Osage Beach, MO 65065 www.glascockconstructioninc.com | glascockconstruction@live.com Q U A L I T Y

C O N S T R U C T I O N

A T

T H E

L A K E

S I N C E

1 9 8 7

Best RecreationalLake PHOTOS BY FUNLAKE.COM

THE

Just 2½ hours from KC, The Lake of the Ozarks offers the ideal getaway from the city. n BY LONNY COHEN

T CENTRAL MISSOURI’S LAKE OF THE OZARKS WAS VOTED THE “BEST RECREATIONAL LAKE.”

he announcement by USA Today came as no surprise to those who frequent the Lake of the Ozarks. The newspaper’s readers’ poll voted that the Central Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks was voted the “Best Recreational Lake.”

Beating out Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada, Big Bear Lake in California, West Okoboji Lake in Iowa, Lake Cumberland in Kentucky to win this coveted recognition, The Lake of the Ozarks which covers 54,000 beautiful acres with 64 billion gallons of water and 1,150 scenic miles of shoreline, is the premier year-round playground attracting people from all around the country.

The family-friendly Lake of the Ozarks offers activities for the water enthusiast, and for the foodie. The Lake does not disappoint with fabulous restaurants that will delight all. Highlighting the wonders of the Lake are the many activities that visitors of all ages will enjoy.

The following are highlights of some of the events scheduled in the next few months that will show you why the Lake of the Ozarks is the Best Recreational Lake in the Country. t FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.FUNLAKE.COM

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Don’t miss us at the KC Boats show in Bartle Hall January 19th-22nd

THE Best

Recreational Lake Continued

Magic Dragon Street Nationals May 4-17, 2017 The 28th Annual Magic Dragon Street Nationals features all makes, models and years of show vehicles. www.magicdragonshow.com 20th Annual Harbor Hop May 6, 2017 Kicking off the boating season, the event is one of the largest boating events of the season. www.funlake.com 10th Annual Fun Run/Walk May 6, 2017 The 10th Annual Fun Run benefits the Lake Regional Health System’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation is an event the whole family will want to be a part of. www.lakeregional/events Rally for the Cure Golf Tournament May 10, 2017 This annual four person scramble golf tournament supports the Susan B. Komen Foundation. www.OsageNational.com

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

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Hot Summer Nights –“Cruisin Through the Years” May 12, 2017 All makes and models of cars, trucks and motorcycles will line the Bagnell Dam Strip and cruise around. This kid-friendly event offers giveaways, helicopter rides, entertainment and more. www.hotsummernightcruise.com

“Catch and Vet” Charity Fishing Tournament May 20, 2017 The team Bass Tournament features dinner and an auction that will support veterans and their families. For more details, call (314) 562-2001.

Red Dirt Lakefest May 26-June 4, 2017 Red Dirt LakeFest is a three-day music event featuring Red Dirt and Texas Music genres. Three stages will host a multitude of artists from solo acoustic to full bands. www.reddirtlakefest.com Dwight Yokum Concert with Special Guest Frankie Ballard May 28, 2017 With more than 25 million albums sold worldwide, GRAMMY winner Dwight Yokum promises to entertain. www.ticketfly.com Osage Beach Festival of Speed June 1, 2017 A section of Osage Beach Parkway West will be closed for a street festival featuring speed boats, classic cars, motorcycles, and food and beverage vendors. The kids will enjoy piggy races, pony rides and a dunk tank. www.lakerace.com Lake Race 2017 June 1-4, 2017 This four-day race event features incredible power boat races, a street fair and a poker run. www.lakerace.com

Dinner

with a side of

PERFECTION Jeffri d es R

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Grande Glaiz Bridge

P

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Night Glow 5K Run/Walk June 9, 2017 Fun night run for all ages benefiting the Children’s Learning Center www.bonkhardracing.com

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in W

38th Annual HK’s Hospital Benefit Golf Tournament June 2-4, 2017 The three-day event features a Pairing Party and Silent/Live Auction. The tournament, a four-person scramble, is Sunday, June 4. www.hksgolf.com

PY

4 EX S-5

Located ¼ mile west of the Grand Glaize Bridge on Osage Beach Parkway Open Seven Days a Week 365 Days a Year Reservations Recommended 573.348.2966 | www.jbruners.com

Annual Eldon Community Golf Tournament June 9, 2017 The 27th Annual Community Golf, a day of golf with cash prizes, door prizes and a 50/50 drawing. www.eldonchamber.com Hot Summer Nights – “It’s A 66 Day Route 66 Returns” June 9, 2017 All makes and models of cars, trucks, and motorcycles will line the Strip and cruise around. Rain or shine, the free admission event will be held. www.hotsummernightcruise.com Stover Fair June 15-17, 2017 This year’s event offers three days of entertainment, a carnival, games and displays for the entire family. www.stoverfair.org Osage River Pow Wow June 16-18, 2017 The Pow Wow features Native American dance, music, crafts and food. www.osageriverpowwow.com t KC RELO

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Recreational Lake Continued

PHOTOS BY FUNLAKE.COM

THE Best

Clint Black in Concert June 16, 2017 This benefit concert features legendary singer and songwriter Clint Black. www.shawneebluffwinery.com Lonestar Live in Concert June 23, 2017 For more than 20 years Lonestar has released several Platinum-selling albums and ten No. 1 singles and earned ACM and CMA awards. www.shawneebluffwinery.com 4th of July Fireworks at Runaway II The Annual Fireworks Show! Will light up the skies after dark with incredible fireworks. www.runawayresort.com Eldon 4th of July Celebration July 4, 2017 The day’s events features a 4th of July Parade, games, vendors, and live music.

A fireworks display will end the day’s festivities at dusk. www.cityofeldonmissouri.com 4th of July Fireworks at Point Randall Resort July 3, 2017 Fireworks will thrill those in attendance and will light the sky. www.pointrandallresort.com 38 Special Live in Concert July 8, 2017 After more than three decades together, 38 SPECIAL will bring their signature blast of Southern Rock to the concert. www.shawneebluffwinery.com 120

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Aquapalooza 2017 July 15, 2017 The Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers is the sponsor of this day on the water.

Live music and activities will provide entertainment throughout the day. www.funlake.com

Hot Summer Nights – Muscle Cars and Custom Cars” August 11, 2017 All makes and models of cars, trucks, and motorcycles will line the Strip and cruise around. Free admission and participation. www.hotsummernightscruise.com/

Hot Summer Nights – “Bikes, Trikes and Trucks” July 14, 2017 All makes and models of cars, trucks, and motorcycles will line the Strip and cruise around. Free admission and participation. www.hotsummernightscruise.com

Lake of the Ozarks Shootout August 26-27, 2017 The Shootout is the largest unsanctioned boat race in the Midwest with over 100 racers and 100,000 spectators. The event will bring top powerboat racers and off shore racing power boats from across the country, topping 200 MPH. Proceeds will benefit the Lake Area Rescue Teams, and other charitable organizations. Other events throughout the week include: R/C Mini Powerboats Shootout, Golf Tournament, Treasure Hunt, PWC Dam Run, Shootout Strip Street Party,Vendor Villages, Poker Runs, Live Entertainment and much more. www.lakeoftheozarksshootout.com

National C.O.P.S. Golf Tournament Fore Survivors August 6, 2017 This four person scramble golf tournament benefits Concerns of Police Survivors’ Hands-on Program. www.nationalcops.org Midwest Wine & Brew Festival August 19, 2017 Wineries and breweries from across the state, along with vendors and restaurants from the Lake Ozark area will provide samples to guests. Live entertainment will be featured throughout the event. www.funlake.com/www.lakeareachamber. com/lake-ozarks-events.asp The Great Bagnell Dam Duck Drop August 5, 2017 Thousands of rubber duckies race on the Osage River to see who wins $5,000.

The whole family will enjoy the games, inflatables, face decorating and more! www.greatdamduckdrop.com

Get the Led Out – The American Led Zeppelin August 26, 2017 Get the Led Out, formed in 2003, promises everything that made Len Zeppelin famous and beyond. www.ticketfly.com Hot Summer Nights – “Salute to Our Heroes” All makes and models of cars, trucks, and motorcycles will line the Strip and cruise around. Free admission and participation www.hotsummernightscruise.com t

Recreational Lake Continued

PHOTOS BY FUNLAKE.COM

THE Best

Westlake Street Machine Fall Follies Car Show September 9, 2017 The car show will include a parade through Laurie, vendor tents, 50’s & 60’s music, beer garden, engine blow, and a fireworks show. www.lsbrotary.org 11th Annual Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest September 13-17, 2017 Events include spectacular scenic rides, more than 200 biker friendly bars

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and restaurants, great parties, vendors and concerts. www.lakebikefest.com

years of age and will feature fun and prizes for everyone. www.lakewestchamber.com

Laurie Hillbilly Fair September 15-16, 2017 Activities and attractions for young and old will be featured along with bands, crafts, food, a Rat Rod Contest, carnival rides and games for all. www.cityoflaurie.com

LOMDA Fall in-Water Boat Show September 22-24, 2017 The Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association Fall In-water Boat Show and Clearance Sale will include more than 100 boats including new cruisers, performance boats, runabouts, personal watercraft and a good selection of quality pre-owned boats. t www.funlake.com

Kids Fishing Derby September 17, 2017 The 6th Annual Derby for kids 2 to 14

1239 Fowler’s Point Camdenton, MO 65020 $749,900 | MLS 3121471 Little Niangua 4 mm

Nothing is spared in quality or workmanship in this custom built Lake Front home on the 4mm of the Little Niangua! It is located at the end of a subdivision providing privacy and a wonderful view with 218’ of lakefront!

This beautiful stucco home with 4,900 SF of living on 2 levels features main level living with amazing Great Room, kitchen, Master Suite plus 2 more bedrooms and full bath. The lower level has 3 more bedrooms (including a 2nd Master Suite) and 2 baths as well as a huge entertainment room with large wet bar.

Check out the 3-car garage and easy access to the 2 well concrete dock with 17x40 slip.

Kevin Winters Team JoAnn Fry Broker/Sales ABR/GRI/CRS 573.216.1883

Jeff Winters REALTOR® ABR 573.480.6776

Joy L. Frederiksen REALTOR® 573.480.2884

Kevin Winters Broker/Sales GRI/ABR 573.216.5311

RE/MAX AT THE LAKE Exceeding Expectations | 573.216.5311 www.KEVINWINTERS.com 75 Sorrento Drive, Suite 3 - Greenview EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

Recreational Lake Continued

PHOTOS BY FUNLAKE.COM

THE Best

Aaron Tippin in Concert September 23, 2017 The Aaron Tippin 25th Anniversary Celebration Concert promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and fun. www.ticketfly.com Lake of the Ozarks Air Show September 23, 2017 Come enjoy a day of celebrating our military, aviation, and more. Featuring multiple air show acts, vendor booths, a ping pong drop and other kid activities,

this salute to our veterans will be a day to remember. www.lakeoftheozarksairshow.com Oyster Fest September 30, 2017 1st Annual Oyster Fest will include live music all day and night, food vendors, contests and a music headliner at the end of the night. www.funlake.com

Pumpkin and Chuckin Palooza September 30, 2017 Contests will celebrate the pumpkin while spectators will also enjoy food, music crafts and contests. Missouri micro brews and Missouri wines will also be available. www.pumkinchunkinpalooza.com 32nd Annual Turkey Festival The festival features crafts, entertainment on three stages along with delicious festival foods. n www.eldonchamber.com

www.summersetboatlifts.com Osage Beach

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Camdenton

573-873-5073

Ready to take the wheel?

design youR insuRance youR way with a FaRmeRs agent.

Ready to take the wheel?

Farmers is a proud partner of Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne®. © 2015 Hendrick Motorsports, LLC

design youR insuRance youR way with a FaRmeRs agent.

Christopher Wagner 573-302-0001

www.farmersagent.com/cwagner1

Real Estate is SERIOUS Business...

Now, let’s have some

FUN

Investing in Lake Real Estate is a serious endeavor, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be FUN! That’s the whole point, right? Whether it is the quiet lakefront estate or a condo in the middle of the action, trust a TRUE local to show you what Lake Life is all about!

with it!

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RyanSells.com eXp Realty LLC 866.224.1761

Tim Laman for National Geographic

The state of magazines is sticky, 43 minutes per issue sticky.

Media continue to proliferate. Attention spans continue to shrink. And free content is available everywhere, from the Internet to the insides of elevators.

Why then are 93% of American adults still so attached to magazines? Why do so many people, young and old, spend so much time with a medium that’s paper and ink, a medium you actually have to pay for in order to read?

In a word, engagement. Reading a magazine remains a uniquely intimate and immersive experience. Not only is magazine readership up, readers spend an average of 43 minutes per issue.

Further, those 43 minutes of attention are typically undivided.

Among all media–––digital or analog–––magazine readers are least likely to engage in another activity while reading.

(Advertisers, take note.)

Stickiness. Another demonstration of the power of magazines.

Credit Unions

Financial Another

Option

Credit Unions Offer Relationship Options in the Kansas City Metro Area n BY LONNY COHEN

D

eveloping new relationships is what the relocation process is all about. On the list of new relationships you will soon need to develop is with financial institutions whether it is with a traditional bank or a credit union. While many know the wonderful options that traditional banks offer, many people are not aware that they can take advantage of the options that are available to them through credit unions.

Membership in credit unions is available to groups with common bonds such as employee groups of specific companies, groups of public service, school employees or an area of residence.

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According to Mark Thompson, Mazuma Credit Union,“The biggest difference between a bank and a credit union is that Credit Unions are not-for-profits that exist to serve its members.” Like other financial institutions, the federal government stands behind credit unions and deposits are insured up to $250,000. Like banks, credit unions accept deposits, make loans and offer an array of other financial services.

According to Letha Higgins, Frontier Community Credit Union, selecting a Credit Union is not difficult. She explains that it is important to research their membership requirements. “Develop a list of credit unions in the area,” said Higgins.“Then narrow your search by researching eligibility, services offered and fees charged by credit unions.

She goes on to say that if you are in the market for a specific loan, research to see if the loan is issued by the credit union.

As with anything you are researching, once you have nailed down your results,

narrow the list down by comparing interest rates and specials to see who has the best deal.

Other things to keep in mind when doing your research is the availability of online services, weekday and weekend hours, branch, along with ATM locations.“Some credit unions belong to a nationwide network of credit unions for shared services,” explains Higgins.“It might mean more access to ATMs and other services while traveling or if you have children attending college in other cities.”

Like most of the banks in the area, credit unions in the area are heavily involved in the communities they serve. Mazuma Credit Union calls their involvement “Corporate Social Responsibility.”

Thompson explains that it is their way to make Kansas City a better place to live.

“This is our commitment to contribute to the social and economic development of the communities we serve.” Mazuma Credit Union focuses on financial education, the Arts and Community t

WHILE MANY KNOW THE WONDERFUL OPTIONS THAT TRADITIONAL BANKS OFFER, MANY PEOPLE ARE NOT AWARE THAT THEY CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE OPTIONS THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO THEM THROUGH CREDIT UNIONS.

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Financial Option

Continued

Development. He proudly says that their employees have volunteered 4,663 hours.

Like Mazuma, Frontier Community Credit Union is heavily involved in the community including funding for the Leavenworth Public Schools for their band programs.

The credit union is committed to the area by offering financial education and has a program that contributes $100 for each new mortgage the credit union originates to the Leavenworth Shelter of Hope, to help with their efforts to improve the quality of life for the homeless in the community.

CACU_ReLo ad_11-2016.indd 1

11/21/16 11:18 AM

Community America Credit Union For over 75 years, we’ve been providing financial peace of mind to Kansas Citians.

We offer a full-suite of financial products and services including our member favorites like Cashback Free Checking, High-Interest Savings and an awesome mobile banking app. Above all else, we share our profits with our members through great rates, lower fees and our Profit Payout. So if you live or work in Kansas City, you can become a member too.Visit CommunityAmerica.com to get started.

Frontier Credit Union Frontier Credit Union opened in 1954 to serve civil service personnel. In 2005 the Credit Union expanded their reach to the entire Leavenworth area and surrounding communities. Anyone living or working in Leavenworth, Atchison, Jefferson, Douglas, Johnson and Wyandotte counties, as well as military and Federal Civil Service personnel, who reside within a 100-mile radius of Fort Leavenworth, is eligible to join. Frontier Credit Union offers services you would expect to find at a bank – mobile/online banking, competitive loans, thousands of branches and ATMs – without the fees. Being deeply committed to the overall well-being of the community is “The Frontier Community Credit Union Difference.”

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DEVELOPING NEW RELATIONSHIPS IS WHAT THE RELOCATION PROCESS IS ALL ABOUT.

United Consumers Credit Union For more than 70 years, United Consumers Credit Union has provided services to our community members as a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution. We offer the same accounts you would find at a traditional bank, but instead of focusing on profits, the credit union promotes thrift and financial stability.

UCCU serves anyone who lives in Jackson, Buchanan, Cass, or Clay Counties or the city of Cameron, Missouri, as well as those who live, work or worship in Johnson County, Kansas.

Becoming a member of UCCU means you n are an Owner not just a number.

Welcome To Your

New Home

Frontier Community Credit Union wants to help you put down roots in your new neighborhood. We can provide financing for the home of your dreams, and our experienced staff will guide you through every step, advising you the whole way.

Get preapproved today!

Apply

Contact

Scan this QR code to go directly to our online loan application.

(913) 651-6575 frontierccu.org Integrity. Dedicated Service. Financial Solutions.

NMLS# 832436

Anytime, Anywhere.

Federally insured

by NCUA

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SPONSORED CONTENT

FOUR REASONS YOU SHOULD BUY A HOME IN 2017.

If you’ve been wavering about whether or not to purchase a home, 2017 might be the year to take the plunge. With a strong job market and favorable financial conditions, 2017 is shaping up to be a great year to get into your dream home.

Here are four reasons why 2017 is the year to purchase a home in the Kansas City area.

Rent costs are high. Rent prices have been on the rise the past few years and are expected to continue climbing. In many cities, including ours, owning is simply cheaper than renting in many cases. While saving for a down payment can be a complicated financial maneuver for some, a mortgage may be a better financial option for many current renters who are ready, willing and able to purchase. What many buyers also don’t realize is there are many down payment resources available to assist with down payment outlay. Another benefit of homeownership is that money spent on your mortgage is paying for your own asset that can appreciate in value over time, rather than going to a landlord.

Interest rates are low. Interest rates remain historically low, and potential buyers cannot expect that to last forever. Buyers may not see interest rates this low again in their lifetimes,

so now is the time to jump on them. Industry experts are forecasting good rates throughout the year, but buyers should recognize the urgency to act before potential rate fluctuations.

Home prices are stabilizing. More homeowners are expected to place their homes on the market in 2017, which should provide a boost to inventory and help in steadying prices.

Home prices have been slowly climbing in recent years, but many are predicting that the market will experience a cooling off period that potential home buyers can capitalize on.

Mortgage terms are clearer. Clearer, easier to understand loan terms and paperwork at the closing table should make the home buying process smoother, especially for first-time homebuyers. This is going to help buyers better understand their financial commitment and keep surprises from showing up at the closing table.

If a home purchase is part of your vision for 2017, start by connecting with a Realtor at www.KCRealtorLink.com.

Overland Park

13420 Metcalf Avenue • Overland Park, KS 66213 • (913) 239-0252

Mission

6850 Johnson Drive • Mission, KS 66202 • (913) 384-2707 nothingbundtcakes.com

Kansas City

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ho can resist the pull of the loudest stadium in the NFL, Arrowhead Stadium, or the crack of the bat when Gordon hits a home run for the Royals at the K, or the excitement of Sporting KC? Whether you choose to back them all, or focus on one, there is no end to the magic.

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PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS PHOTO BY KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

IT IS HARD NOT TO BE A

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SPORTS FAN IN KANSAS CITY.

You cannot go anywhere in the city without seeing Kansas City Royal blue on someone’s shirt, hat, car or house.

This team warmed the collective heart of the city when they pulled together and won the World Series in 2015. The parade held to celebrate the championship drew 800,000 plus, an event that turned the area near Union Station into a sea of blue, screaming fans. Since then, players have become household names and though the wins have not been as plentiful, fans of all ages continue to flock to games at Kauffman Stadium in record numbers.

Let’s go Royals!

Do you know how to do the tomahawk chop? It’s much more fun with thousands of other Kansas City Chiefs fans at Arrowhead Stadium. And this past season saw the team make a good run and play in the playoffs. Alex Smith, quarterback, was nominated this year for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award for his Alex Smith Foundation, which provides foster teens with support and assistance in t KC RELO

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Kansas City LOVES ITS

BEING A SPORTS FAN IS CONTAGIOUS IF YOU LIVE IN

Kansas City. Chiefs players raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for worthwhile charities every year. And make hearts beat faster on the field!

Are you ready for some football? Indoor football, that is. The Kansas City Phantoms are bringing this action-packed sport to fans during the inaugural season, featuring six home games. The newest professional arena football team in Kansas City took the field this year at Silverstein Eye Centers Arena, where the Missouri Mavericks play.

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and the season runs through June 2. They were awarded the franchise in the early Fall, and play in the Champions Indoor Football (CIF) Conference, which houses 17 teams. Many local athletes comprise the team and excitement is contagious. To keep up with this new team, follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Gentlemen, and women, start your engines!

The Kansas Speedway brings professional NASCAR to our area. The track seats over 63,000, and a unique ground level concourse that allows fans to walk down

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KANSAS CITY.

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30 rows or up 35 rows. Parking is free, and the 1.5-mile track is strategically located at the intersection of I-435 in Kansas City, Kansas, about 15 miles west of downtown Kansas City. Coolers are welcome, and there’s no better place to camp and tailgate than the Speedway during race season.

The Missouri Mavericks are in their eighth season as a professional hockey franchise serving the greater Kansas City metro. Last season, the Mavericks made a historic run winning the Brabham Cup leading the ECHL with 52 regular season wins before losing in the second round to the eventual league champion Allen Americans. The Mavs have made playoff appearances in six of their first seven seasons, and received such awards as the 2014 Bud Poile Governor’s Cup with 44 regular season wins, and numerous community and league awards over the years, including the Harry S. Truman Special Community Service Recognition Award by the City of Independence, and t

Professional, independent, residental pool inspections.

Aquatic Consultants offers professional consulting services that assists clients in one of the most valuable assets in a home – a pool.

Find out how we can help insure that your pool will last for years and is the source of many years of great memories for you and your family.

We are highly qualified, experienced experts with over 40 years in the aquatic facilities and operations.

If you are considering buying a home with an existing pool call us before you buy it so we can inspect the pool.

A professional service offering evaluation, advice, design aid, and dispute resolution.

Curt Straub (913) 362-3332 curt@aquaticconsultantsinc.us

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claiming CHL Franchise of the Year in four consecutive seasons. As the AA affiliate of the NHL’s New York Islanders, fans see some amazing talent at the Silverstein Eye Centers Arena, off I70 and 470.

If your kiddos want to get involved with soccer, make sure you look into the many venues available to them. The Heartland Soccer Association has over 30,000 players kicking the soccer ball around local fields across the area and the United States.

Heartland plays at two world class turf facilities, Scheels Overland Park Soccer Complex and Swope Soccer Village, as

well as grass fields at Heritage Soccer Park and Legacy Soccer Park. Gateway Village is another soccer destination in Grandview, Missouri, and there are 14 fields in the new soccer complex and entertainment village coming to 470 and View High Drive in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Find one for you and your kiddos and get involved.

Kansas City is such a sports town with all the local and nearby schools.Visit the University of Missouri Tigers just up the road in Columbia, the world-renowned Kansas University Jayhawks in Lawrence and K-State Wildcats, both just a jaunt into Kansas. University of Missouri-Kansas City

DIEHARD FAN IS A WAY OF LIFE IN KANSAS CITY.

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the-art Children’s Mercy Park, one of the premier soccer-specific stadiums in North America. Sporting Kansas City’s game day experience is unparalleled, offering fans premier sports entertainment in an electric atmosphere.

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Sporting Kansas City is one of the most successful soccer clubs in the United States, winning six major championships since joining Major League Soccer as a charter member in 1996. Home to several national team players including Matt Besler, Graham Zusi and Benny Feilhaber, Sporting KC most recently hosted the 2013 MLS Cup and the 2015 U.S. Open Cup. The club plays its home matches at state-of-

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(UMKC) is located downtown, and the Kangaroos draw crowds for basketball and volleyball. In addition, our local high schools have a strong following and you won’t be disappointed in the passion of fans and players. Whoever you root for, there are amazing games to choose from.

Suffice it to say that the area has something for everyone, no matter what sport they choose. Being a diehard fan is a way of life in Kansas City. So be ready to let your voice be heard!

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Propane School Buses POPULARITY OF

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n the latest round of Missouri state budget cuts, school transportation funding was on the chopping block again.The state Department of Elementary and Secondary now covers 16 percent of school transportation funding, down from 22 percent in recent years and 40 percent in 2008. School districts are scrambling to figure out how to put a reduced transportation budget together.

One possible solution? School buses fueled by propane autogas.

Propane, the same energy that heats homes and fills barbeque tanks, is often referred to as autogas when used in on-road engines. Propane autogas is the leading alternative fuel in the United States and the third most commonly used vehicle fuel, following gasoline and diesel. Globally, there are more than 25 million propane autogas vehicles traveling the roads.

All three major school bus manufacturers, Blue Bird, IC Bus and Thomas Built, offer propane-fueled school bus options. Currently, about 12,000 propane buses transport students in 600 school districts across the U.S., according to the Propane Education & Research Council.

Four years ago, Fort Zumwalt in O’Fallon became the first Missouri school district to add propane buses.The district chose propane for its quieter and cleaner ride for students — and a savings of $3,000 per bus each year.They now have 56 Blue Bird Vision school buses, each equipped with a ROUSH CleanTech liquid propane fuel system.

Neosho School District operates 18 propane buses.

“We saved $ 19,000 for mileage ran on propane buses this year compared to the same number of miles driven by our diesel buses,” said Michelle Embrey, transportation director for Neosho School District.“And that does not take into consideration the $24,000 we have coming back to us for the alternative fuels 144

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SCHOOL BUSES EQUIPPED WITH PROPANE FUEL SYSTEMS REQUIRE LESS OIL BY VOLUME THAN DIESEL AND NO ADDITIONAL DIESEL EMISSIONS FLUIDS. ON AVERAGE, PROPANE AUTOGAS COSTS 40 TO 50 PERCENT LESS THAN DIESEL.

credit.” (Editor’s note: Federal tax credits for alternative fuels expired at the end of 2016 but are under consideration for reinstatement.)

Embrey cited lower emissions, reduced noise levels of the bus and comfort of the students as additional benefits.The district is “extremely happy with our propane buses,” she said.

In other parts of the country, the South Carolina Department of Education recently added 26 propane buses to replace aging diesel buses.These diesel buses, many decades old, cost them .49 cents per mile.

Projections show that the new propane buses will reduce costs to .21 cents per mile — a savings of .28 cents per mile.

On average, propane autogas costs 40 to 50 percent less than diesel. Less maintenance is required on propane buses due to the clean-burning properties of the fuel.

According to Blue Bird, districts can expect to save an average of $2,000 to $2,500 per bus per year on fuel and maintenance costs with propane autogas. Engines powered by propane autogas require less oil per oil change than diesel, and no additional diesel emissions fluids or hardware. Filter packages cost about 60 percent less for propane autogas vehicles than diesel vehicles.

When factoring in fuel and maintenance savings, Florida’s Broward County reported saving .38 cents per mile — or more than $600,000 annually in total operating costs for its 98 propane buses. Bend-La Pine School District in Oregon pays 57 percent less for its propane autogas than for diesel to fuel its school buses. Mesa Public Schools in Arizona has experienced .37 cents per mile cost savings with propane autogas compared to diesel.

A case study from the U.S. Energy Department’s Alternative Fuels Data Center summarizes the use of domestically produced propane autogas in school buses deployed by five school districts.

Compared to diesel, some of the school districts saved nearly 50 percent on a cost per mile basis for fuel and maintenance.

With the Propane Education & Research Council’s savings calculator, transportation directors can plug in specific fleet information to learn lifetime ownership costs comparing propane autogas to conventional fuels.

In addition to cost savings, propane school buses reduce emissions.When compared to conventional diesel-powered buses, they emit fewer greenhouse gases and total hydrocarbon emissions, and virtually eliminate particulate matter.

Propane is recognized as an alternative fuel under the Clean Air Act. School districts that deploy propane school buses may be eligible for federal and state funding and fuel tax credits.Visit the Energy Department’s Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center at http://www.afdc.energy.gov/laws/.The U.S. Energy Department’s Clean Cities program supports and funds alternative fuel programs. Both St. Louis Clean Cities and Kansas City Regional Clean Cities operate in Missouri.

Yet, the largest funding may come from the recent Volkswagen settlement, which resulted in the creation of an Environmental Mitigation Trust Fund.The dollars set aside in this trust will fund actions that reduce smog-forming nitrogen oxide emission, such as replacing old, preemission diesel buses with cleaner buses, such as propane.The fund has allocated the state of Missouri about $40 million.

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ansas Citians have always supported local restaurateurs and these restaurateurs have supported Kansas Citians with great food.You will soon discover why these are some of Kansas City’s iconic restaurants.

Dixon’s Famous Chili, located on Highway 40 in Independence gained exposure to the rest of the world when Life magazine featured a story about frequent customer President Harry Truman and his secret service men’s trip to the restaurant.

Dixon ‘s unique Chili is served the same way it was served in 1915 on a plate with beans on the bottom, then the homemade specially seasoned chili meat. Your t

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THESE ARE SOME OF

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creativity comes into play next as an array of “chili fixins” including onions; ketchup: cheese and sour cream are available.

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While you will visit Dixon’s Famous Chili for its unique chili, burgers or all-you-can eat tacos, you will also be impressed with their fast and friendly atmosphere where you can grab a seat at the counter in front of the chili being dished or at a table.

Walking in the door of a Gates Bar-BQue restaurant, you are immediately greeted by a person behind the counter saying “Hi, may I help you?” With three locations in Kansas City, Missouri; one in Kansas, Kansas and one in Leawood, Kansas, your craving for Gates Bar-B-Que can be easily satisfied.

Gate’s menu offers barbeques lovers a wide assortment of choices from its sandwiches to its ribs and from its chicken to its beef and sausages that will make you come back for more. Make sure you try all three of Gates’ Bar-B-Que sauce flavors and you will find out why Gates Barbeque is a favorite place for Kansas City barbeque.

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Garozzo’s Ristorante has been the Italian restaurant of choice since Michael Garozzo moved to Kansas City in 1989 and opened its first restaurant in Columbus Park, Kansas City’s historic Italian neighborhood. Today, in addition to that the Columbus Park location, there are locations in Lee’s Summit and Overland Park.

A trip to Garozzo’s would not be complete without trying the restaurant’s signature dish, chicken spiedini. The marinated chicken breast that is rolled

KANSAS CITIANS HAVE ALWAYS SUPPORTED LOCAL RESTAURATEURS.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

in bread crumbs, skewed and grilled has become a Kansas City staple.

Since opening in 1975, Ponak’s Mexican Kitchen has served more than 280,000 gallons of margaritas and 6 million tacos. Ponak’s Mexican Kitchens recipes are influenced by the Sonora region of Mexico, steeped in tradition and flavor for hundreds of years.

With margaritas on tap, an extensive menu and its friendly casual atmosphere, Ponak’s is as authentic as it gets. On your first visit, you will discover why Ponak’s has been the recipient of many local media awards including the Best Ethnic Restaurant, Best Margarita, Best Tacos and Best Tamales.

Well-known restaurant critic Calvin Trillin’s article about Jess and Jim’s Steak House in Playboy magazine in 1972 brought national fame to the restaurant that had been the “go to” restaurant for Kansas Citians since 1938. t

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While customer service is the backbone of this family-owned business, the prime aged beef steaks that are cut fresh daily continue to be one of Kansas City’s choices for steak.

Paying homage to Playboy magazine for honoring them in 2001 as one of the twelve Steakhouses in America, Jess and Jim’s features the Playboy Strip, which is 25 ounces of pure beef goodness. A 30 ounce porterhouse also entices heartier appetites, but for those with smaller apetities try the tender filet mignon, ribeye, sirloin, T-bone, porterhouse or the KC Strip. No matter what you choose, you will soon realize why Jess and Jim’s is known for its steaks.

Coffee roasting is the art of unlocking the quality and flavor of each coffee bean and you soon realize this art has been perfected when you visit the Roasterie Cafes found in Brookside, Leawood and the Factory Café in downtown Kansas City.

For the fifth year, the Roasterie Cafes have

been voted as the City’s Best Coffee House.

Coffee connoisseurs will taste the difference with their first cup of airroasted coffee from the Roasterie. The cafes’ knowledgeable and customer service-focused staff make you feel like you found a home. Pastries, bagels and cookies complement the vast array of coffee, teas and other specialty drink selections. It will be love at first sip.

For more than 80 years, Kansas Citians have flocked to Stroud’s Restaurant & Bar who coined the phrase,“We choke our own chickens.”With locations in Fairway, Overland Park, Independence and North of the River, Stroud’s Restaurant & Bar has been a Kansas City favorite since 1933.

Still locally owned, their vision continues with home cooked family meals in a fun friendly atmosphere. Through the years, Stroud’s has received numerous national awards including the James Beard Award for Excellence and the Zagat Award and t

Connect to KC Many of our clients are interested in connecting with social, civic or charitable activities in the Kansas City region. Our Connect to KC program can help you find the best fit your passion and talents. From arts and sports to charitable and civic organizations, Kansas City offers an extraordinary array of enjoyable and satisfying opportunities.

For more information, contact Georgiane Hayhow and she’ll put you in touch with one of our connectors.

Georgiane hayhow (913) 915-3186 G@ThehayhowGroup.com

w w w . T h e hayho w G r o up. co m / K c

www.ThehayhowGroup.com

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R E S TA U R A N T S

Where you are the most important ingredient

C AT E R I N G H O S P I TA L I T Y SERVICES

eatpbj.com

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LOCAL RESTAURATEURS HAVE SUPPORTED KANSAS CITIANS WITH GREAT FOOD.

has been featured on numerous national television appearances. After your first visit, you will be hooked on the pan fried chicken along with the cottage-fries, green beans, gravy and their mouth-watering cinnamon rolls which accompany all dinner menu items.

When many Kansas Citians think of hamburgers, they think of Winstead’s.

A quote in the Wall Street Journal says it all – “They do not sell hamburgers by the billion.You cannot “supersize” your meal.

They are a household word only in Kansas City. But Calvin Trillin was right: Winstead’s has the world’s best hamburgers.

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Thin freshly ground steak burgers, courteous fast service are the reason Kansas Citians have continued to be loyal customers along with the French fries, onion rings, chocolate frosty are the reasons you will soon be a Winstead’s devotee.

Whether you crave a burger, coffee, Italian food, barbeque, fried chicken, chili or a steak, unbutton the top button of your slacks and get ready to enjoy Kansas City’s n iconic restaurants.

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY AL GRIFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY

In addition to Winstead’s original location on the Country Club Plaza, there are

locations in Overland Park, Lenexa, Blue Springs, Merriam, Leawood and North Kansas City.

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COME MINGLE WITH A DELICIOUS DISH. Food on the money. Drinks on the rocks.

Join us for a quick lunch, an intimate dinner or just a drink at the bar. Better yet, invite your friends and family for a private dining event. At Sullivan’s, the stage is always set for an experience full of flavor.

©2015 Sullivan’s Steakhouse

4501 W. 119th St. | Leawood, KS 913.345.0800 | SullivansSteakhouse.com

Many Hospitals and the Most Advanced

Healthcare Options ARE

Readily Available

IN THE KANSAS CITY METRO

n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

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he Kansas City area is home to upto-date, top notch healthcare and professionals.This helpful listing will aid you in finding what you need in your new community.Whether you need excellent care for your children, elderly care, family emergency care or health advice, the helpful mentality of these professionals and the consistent improvements and research being done will never let you down. And they will always make you feel better!

HCA Midwest Health is the Kansas City area’s largest network and recognized leader in healthcare, consisting of seven hospitals, 10 emergency rooms, 11 urgent cares, outpatient centers, clinics, physician practices, surgery centers and an array of other services with more than 150 convenient access points. HCA Midwest Health facilities serving the Kansas City area include Belton Regional Medical

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Center, Centerpoint Medical Center, Lafayette Regional Health Center, Lee’s Summit Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park Regional Medical Center, Research Medical Center and Research Psychiatric Center.

Known throughout the region for comprehensive care and advanced

THE KANSAS CITY AREA IS HOME TO UP-TO-DATE, TOP NOTCH HEALTHCARE AND PROFESSIONALS.

treatments for cancers of all types, HCA Midwest Health is proud to partner with the Sarah Cannon cancer network, the cancer service line of HCA, and a leader in world-class cancer care. The Sarah Cannon HCA Midwest Health cancer network is anchored by our four accredited hospitals: Belton Regional Medical Center, Centerpoint Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center, Research Medical Center, and complemented by numerous cancer care outreach sites located in communities throughout metropolitan Kansas City and the surrounding areas.

HCA Midwest Health offers the area’s only network of award-winning, accredited chest pain centers, which improves the survival of a heart attack by 37 percent.

In addition, HCA Midwest Health offers leading-edge services in neonatal care, neurosciences, pediatrics, rehabilitation, robotic surgery, sleep disorders, spine care,

PHOTO BY SAINT LUKE’S HEALTH SYSTEM

sports medicine, trauma care, weight loss surgery and women’s care, among others.

HCA Midwest Health’s medical staff of more than 2000 doctors represents 60 medical specialties, ensuring you and your family receives high-quality, compassionate, patient-centered care. Above all else, as the premier healthcare destination in the Kansas City area, HCA Midwest Health is committed to the care and improvement of human life.

For more than half a century, North Kansas City Hospital (NCKH) has been the Northland’s preferred healthcare provider. NKCH is an acute-care facility with 451 licensed beds and 550 physicians representing 49 medical specialties. From a Level III neonatal intensive care unit, to award-winning cardiovascular and orthopedic programs, to home health and hospice, NKCH provides a lifetime of care.

NCKH offers advanced treatment options, including world class cancer care through a partnership with the region’s only National Cancer Institute-designated program.

Through its Meritas Health subsidiary, NKCH offers the largest network of healthcare providers in the Northland, with more than 110 primary and specialty care physicians in 30 convenient locations, including an express care clinic in the Liberty Hy-Vee store.

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The hospital’s mission, vision and values reflect a strong commitment to the health and well-being of the Northland community and beyond. Last year, NKCH sponsored 60 charitable and community organizations and served more than 24,000 people through its dynamic Community Health & Wellness programs.

And, it recently became the first hospital

in Kansas City to offer a zero-percent financing option to help patients manage their medical services.

Saint Luke’s Health System consists of 10 area hospitals and several primary and specialty care practices.They provide a range of inpatient, outpatient, home care and hospice services. Founded as a faith-based, not-for-profit organization, their mission includes a commitment to the highest levels of excellence in health care and the advancement of medical research and education.

Saint Luke’s Hospital ranks among the nation’s best in seven specialties, as recognized in 2015 by U.S. News and World Report. Saint Luke’s is a regional pioneer in health care innovation.They offer four acute-care hospitals throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area, including: Saint Luke’s Hospital, Midtown and Country Club Plaza; Saint Luke’s East Hospital, Lee’s Summit and Eastern Jackson County; Saint Luke’s South Hospital, Overland Park and Johnson County,

Kansas; Saint Luke’s North Hospital, Kansas City North.

One of the nation’s leading cardiovascular disease outcome research programs is at Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute.

Its legacy of innovation began more than 25 years ago when it opened as the nation’s first heart hospital. Since then, the Heart Institute has earned a world-wide reputation for excellence in the treatment of heart disease, including interventional cardiology, cardiovascular surgery, imaging, heart failure, transplant, heart disease prevention, women’s heart disease, electrophysiology, outcomes research, and health economics.With more than 50 full-time board certified cardiovascular specialists on staff, the Heart Institute offers one of the largest heart failure/heart transplant programs in the country, has the largest experience with transcatheter aortic valve replacement in the Midwest, and is a global teaching site for the newest approaches to opening challenging blocked arteries using minimally invasive techniques.

Treatment for complex brain and spinal cord diseases at the city’s only dedicated neuroscience hospital, Saint Luke’s Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute. SLMBNI offers neurologists dedicated to treating a full range of neurological conditions including stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, movement disorders, memory disorders, migraine headaches and more.

Our minimally invasive spine surgery team and our subspecialty-trained neurosurgeons utilize leading edge interventions for stroke, trauma, aneurysms, tremor and other brain disorders.

Their Comprehensive Stroke Center, with one of the nation’s leading stroke

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reversal programs, uses leading-edge neurointervention techniques. Saint Luke’s programs, community outreach and education, stroke research and rehabilitation are dedicated to preventing and treating stroke.

The Cancer Institute offers access to leading edge clinical trials for cancer treatment, including National Cancer Institute (NCI) and industry trials, as well as the region’s largest network of 3-D mammography centers. SLCI also offers innovative surgeries for brain tumors and the STAR® Program for cancer rehabilitation to help patients overcome the physical and emotional challenges that accompany cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Advanced surgical care, liver and kidney transplantation programs, and a Level IIIb Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with high-risk obstetrics program are available.

Crittenton Children’s Center is a nationally recognized children’s behavioral health center, and Saint Luke’s Convenient Care Clinics are designed to provide high quality care close to home, with locations in Kansas City area Hy-Vee grocery stores.

Saint Luke’s Concierge service offers physician referrals, class registration, and general information about their health system, and customer service specialists are available M-F to answer questions and guide people to the right physicians and right places. Saint Luke’s Concierge service is available by calling 816-932-5100, or outside of Kansas City at 855-932-5100. For mornie information, visit saintlukeskc.org.

Every day, the specialists at Children’s Mercy provide expert care to hundreds of children.They are the only free-standing children’s hospital between St. Louis and 156

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Denver. Every year, their research advances and redefines pediatric medicine. And every moment, the staff does everything possible to care for and support the families they serve.This dedication and commitment, along with generous community support, lets Children’s Mercy offer the best possible care for your child, while helping transform the lives of children across Kansas City and around the world.

Their unparalleled expertise is evident.

Children’s Mercy is consistently recognized as one of the top children’s hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report – a reflection of the dedication and expertise of each and every one of our staff.

With 700 specialists in more than 40 specialty areas, Children’s Mercy brings exceptional experience to the most complex pediatric cases, as well as to the everyday needs of children’s health.Their pediatric nursing care is second to none, having earned Magnet® recognition – the highest designation of excellence in nursing – three times in a row.

The Elizabeth J. Ferrell Fetal Health Center is one of only a few of its kind in the nation, delivering babies with high risks and complications right here at the hospital so that they can get the immediate care they need.

With family-centered care, Children’s Mercy provides a unique, family-centered environment that understands and provides for the needs of both pediatric patients and their families.Their Child Life program is one of the largest in the country.

It eases stress and worry through programs that help kids and parents understand their medical care; allow kids to play, learn and grow while in the hospital; and provide

emotional support and resources for the whole family.

The University of Kansas Hospital is one of the nation’s leading hospitals, delivering comprehensive care, surgery and diagnostics for people with the most complex conditions. As a premier academic medical center, the hospital serves as a resource for other hospitals and care providers throughout the Midwest and treats patients from across the country. Exceptional care is provided through collaboration among physicians who represent more than 200 specialties, as well as nurses, researchers and other professionals.Together, they deliver exciting discoveries and life-changing treatments.

The hospital’s work has consistently earned recognition in many areas: U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals 2015-16 named The University of Kansas Hospital among the nation’s 50 best for adult care in 12 data-driven medical and surgical specialties.The hospital is one of only 16 in the nation to achieve this status. It has also been ranked on the Best Hospitals list every year since 2007.

The hospital provides patient care for The University of Kansas Cancer Center, one of only 69 National Cancer Institutedesignated Cancer Centers nationwide.

Patients have better access to clinical trials, the latest therapies and more personalized care closer to home in facilities throughout the region.

Since 2006, the hospital has been designated as a Magnet facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.The designation is awarded to only about 7 percent of U.S. hospitals.

The hospital is one of only 13 academic medical centers to receive the 2015 t

Ranked Best.

10 years and counting.

Why would you go anywhere else?

For the 10th year in a row, U.S. News & World Report has ranked The University of Kansas Hospital among the nation’s best – a remarkably consistent performance. We are among a select few in the country to be ranked in 11 data-driven medical and surgical specialties. That’s why, once again, we are named the Best Hospital in Kansas City and the Best Hospital in Kansas. These rankings are not only based on reputation, but patient outcomes data including survival and safety – something important to consider when deciding where to find the best care.

To make an appointment, call 913-588-1227. Learn more at kansashealthsystem.com/rankings.

A D VA N C I N G T H E P O W E R O F M E D I C I N E ®

© The University of Kansas Health System

Continued PHOTO BY SHAWNEE MISSION HEALTH

PHOTO BY OLATHE MEDICAL CENTER

Many Hospitals and the most Advanced Healthcare Options

Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Award from University HealthSystem Consortium.The study is given to those who provide high-quality, safe, efficient, patient-centered, equitable care.

For the fourth consecutive year,The University of Kansas Hospital earned the National Research Corporation Consumer Choice Award for Kansas City.The award recognizes a hospital’s overall quality, image and reputation, physicians and nurses.

For more than four decades, Liberty Hospital, 2525 Glenn Hendren Drive, Liberty, has been dedicated to providing our community with high-quality healthcare close to home. In today’s healthcare environment, Liberty Hospital is in the midst of great change; diversifying for the future, while being true to their mission – to improve the healthcare delivery system and offer lower cost and convenient options to those they serve.

This year brought the openings of a new urgent care facility and specialty clinic on the west side of Interstate 35.

Liberty Hospital Urgent Care Shoal Creek offers extended hours with easy access located across from Walmart on North Church Road. Liberty Hospital Specialty Clinic Shoal Creek now offers cardiologists, orthopedic and spinal surgeons, obstetricians/gynecologists and dermatologists.

Liberty Hospital also announced a new clinical affiliation with Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute to provide comprehensive oncology services on their campus. By teaming up, they now can combine the latest in technology, pharmaceuticals and clinical trials with Liberty Hospital’s awardwinning quality and personal care.

Also this year, Liberty Hospital became the first provider in the Kansas City area – and the only one in this region – to offer 158

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MAKOplasty, a surgical procedure for hip and partial-knee replacements.They are only the second hospital in Missouri to acquire this technology. MAKOplasty is less invasive than traditional total replacement surgery and is performed using a surgeoncontrolled robotic arm that allows for more precise movements and a custom fit for the replacement joint.

While continuing to expand services, Liberty Hospital also is undergoing extensive renovations to make their campus more welcoming and comforting.The new main entrance and lobby, along with the gift shop, patient registration and patient rooms on 3 East recently opened. After a makeover completed last spring, the Emergency Department opened with the addition of a patient fast-track to decrease the wait times and length of stay for patients with less serious injuries and illnesses.

The Olathe Health System includes Olathe Medical Center (OMC) – located at Olathe Medical Park, one of the largest hospital campuses in the Midwest – a nearly 250-acre campus at 151st Street and I-35 in southern Johnson County.The five-story acute-care medical center is licensed for 300 beds and averages more than 44,000 patient care days per year.

Its emergency care center is one of the busiest in the region, with more than 42,000 patients treated annually.

The not-for-profit medical center and its network of practicing physicians specialize in nearly every area of medicine. OMC services include orthopedics, obstetrics, oncology, cardiology, vein care, emergency care and more.

For more than 62 years, OMC has lived up to its promise - to meet the community’s need for compassionate, high-quality healthcare spanning every stage of life.

From a single, 30-bed hospital in 1953 to a thriving regional health system today, OMC

has grown with the community, responding to its needs.

OMC is currently undergoing the largest expansion in its history. Four significant construction projects are underway across OMC’s 250-acre campus: a new four-story obstetrics wing with a level II neonatal intensive care unit; a free-standing cancer center; an expanded cardiovascular center; and the addition of a memory care neighborhood at Cedar Lake Village.

Through OMC’s dedication to quality care, the hospital has received many awards and accreditations, including: Best Hospitals by US News and World Report; Women’s Choice Award, America’s Best Hospitals for Breast Center, Cancer Care and Orthopedics; Safest Hospital in the KC Metro Area by Consumer Reports; Newsweek Top Cancer Docs; Certified Chest Pain Center; Certified Primary Stroke Center; Accredited by the Commission on Cancer with commendation in the Community Hospital Cancer program category (only one in four hospitals nationwide receives this approval) and Accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.

Shawnee Mission Health (SMH) is a network of health care facilities and services located throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area and surrounding communities.The network includes Shawnee Mission Medical Center (SMMC) in Merriam, Kan., a 504-bed facility with more than 20,000 inpatient admissions and more than 200,000 outpatient admissions annually; SMH – Prairie Star, a comprehensive health care facility located in western Lenexa; physician practices located throughout Johnson and Leavenworth Counties and Centra Care Shawnee Mission Urgent Care locations in Overland Park and Lenexa. SMH’s newest facility, SMH – Blue Valley, will open in t

750 specialists. 120 years. 1 focus: Your child.

For over a century, Children’s Mercy has been here for children — like yours.

We have nationally ranked pediatric specialists and nationally recognized pediatric nurses.

All dedicated to healing the whole child, body and mind. And to ďŹ nding answers that will lead to better outcomes, for children here and everywhere.

Find your answers at childrensmercy.org.

For children. For families. For answers.

SM

Myles Kansas City

PHOTO BY ST. MARY’S MEDICAL CENTER

early 2017 and will feature an emergency department, laboratory, imaging center and an approximately 75,000 square foot medical office building for physicians in a variety of specialties.

SMH serves more than 70,000 patients in its emergency departments annually, has the area’s first accredited Chest Pain Emergency Center and delivers more babies each year at SMMC than any other hospital in the metropolitan area.

SMH also has some of the highest customer service or HCAHPS scores in the Kansas City metro.The network employs more than 3,000 local residents and supports an exceptional staff of 700 physicians representing 50 medical specialties, the largest medical staff of any full-service hospital in Kansas City. SMH has served the Johnson County community since 1962.

St. Mary’s Medical Center, founded by the Sisters of St. Mary, relocated from downtown Kansas City to Blue Springs, Mo., in 1981. In 2015, the hospital was purchased

by Prime Healthcare Services, operating 38 hospitals in 11 states. Its Catholic heritage and the spirit of our founding Sisters continue today in our mission of caring for the community.

The medical center has provided highquality compassionate care to the residents of Blue Springs and Eastern Jackson County for more than 30 years. St. Mary’s is active in the community, offering patients the best of both worlds – a warm, caring environment, close to home, providing the range of services and expertise typically found in much larger facilities.

St. Mary’s is among an elite group of providers in treatment for time critical diagnosis and has earned several quality awards, including Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® by The Joint Commission and Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. It is also recognized by the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center and is a Certified Chest Pain Center.

The Breast Center has earned recognition by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation from the American College of Radiology (ACR).

It has also earned recognition by the 160

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National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation from the American College of Radiology.

In 2015, the medical center was recognized with the Women’s Choice Award® among America’s Best Hospitals for Orthopedics and America’s Best Breast Centers.The Women’s Choice Award identifies hospitals women can choose with confidence knowing they excel at clinical care and patient experience.

St. Mary’s is a faith-based, Joint Commission accredited, 146-bed acute care facility providing a wide range of services, including Emergency Department, Joint and Spine Institute, Surgical Services, Breast Center and outpatient services.

Founded in 1874 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Joseph Medical Center has a long tradition of providing quality, compassionate care. In 2015, the hospital was purchased by Prime Healthcare Services, operating 38 hospitals in 11 states. Its Catholic heritage and the spirit of our founding Sisters continue today in our mission of caring for the community.

Conveniently located at I-435 and State Line, St. Joseph is a faith-based, Joint Commission accredited, 310-bed acute care facility providing a wide range of services, including Emergency Department, Joint and Spine Institute, Surgical Services, Sleep Center, Birthing Center and outpatient services.

St. Joseph has proven it is among an elite group of providers in the treatment for time critical diagnosis and has earned the American College of Cardiology’s Get with the Guidelines Platinum Performance Award.The medical center has received

full accreditation with percutaneous coronary intervention from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care. It is also an Accredited Chest Pain Center.The medical center has earned Stroke Center Level II designation from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Bureau of Hospital Standards.

The Breast Center at St. Joseph has earned recognition by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation from the American College of Radiology.

In 2015, the medical center was recognized with the Women’s Choice Award® among America’s Best Hospitals for Orthopedics and America’s Best Breast Centers.The Women’s Choice Award identifies hospitals women can choose with confidence knowing they excel at clinical care and patient experience.

St. Joseph has attained Magnet® recognition for three straight times.

This program recognizes excellence in nursing and it is the highest honor an organization can receive for professional nursing practice.

Truman Medical Centers is Kansas City’s essential, two acute-care safety net hospital health system.The TMC Health System includes TMC Hospital Hill,TMC Lakewood,TMC Behavioral Health, the Jackson County Health Department and a number of primary care practices throughout Eastern Jackson County.TMC is the primary community teaching hospital for the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, and specializes in chronic disease management, orthopedics, family medicine, women’s health, and trauma services. n

PHOTO BY TRUMAN MEDICAL CENTERS

Many Hospitals and the most Advanced Healthcare Options

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NO REASON TO SUFFER UNTIL MONDAY

Urgent Care

may be the answer – with a multitude of convenient locations around the KC Metro

n BY LONNY COHEN

I

t has happened to all of us – your child’s fever has spiked or during your daily run, you sprain your ankle. The problem is that it is the weekend or your doctor has gone home for the day. Do you wait until you can see your pediatrician or primary care physician? In the metro area, there are other options – Urgent Care Facilities.

In the Kansas City metro area, you will not have to look far to find these facilities offering you the care you expect. Urgent care facilities generally accept patients of all ages and treat a broad spectrum of illnesses.You should consider using these facilities to address anything you would see your primary care physician for.

Waiting times throughout the metro are generally less than emergency rooms and the cost is significantly less.

Wherever you live throughout the metro area, there is an Urgent Care facility nearby.

Many physicians throughout the area offer urgent care with extended evening and weekend hours.

For those orthopedic issues that happen on the weekend or when your doctor isn’t available, the Kansas City Orthopedic Institute has recently opened Ortho Urgent Care inside their offices in Leawood.

You will never need an appointment at the Urgent Care facilities that are operated by many of the hospitals in the area. For example, HCA Midwest has partnered with the Care Spot and has twelve locations in the Metro Area and The University of Kansas Medical Center offers urgent care at locations near you.

Whether you live in the Northland, Eastern Jackson County or in Johnson County, there is help for your children on weekends and evenings at the Urgent Care facilities operated by Children’s Mercy Hospital.

As a newcomer to the area, while you never want to use them, it is important to know your urgent healthcare options. Check out your new neighborhood for the many options that are available near you and make sure the location information is readily available to all of your family members.

Additionally, keep in mind that Urgent Care Centers are great for minor ailments, but there are times when you and your family should seek treatment at an Emergency Room. n

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Need to Find Care Quick The following is a sampling of the many Urgent Care facilities in the Kansas City Metropolitan area. To find a clinic that is near your new home, a Google search on the Internet will find the clinic to suit your needs.

When in doubt, contact the hospital nearest you, many of these hospitals operate their own Urgent Care Facility or can direct you to one that will be best suited for you.

Care Spot – In partnership with the HCA Health Midwest, Care Spots, there are eight locations throughout the Area in both Kansas and Missouri. Visit www.carespot.com for more information.

Concentra Urgent Care – There are six Concentra Urgent Cares throughout both Kansas and Missouri. Visit www.concentra.com for location information.

Children’s Mercy Hospitals Urgent Care Facilities – Children’s Mercy Hospital operates 3 Urgent Care Facilities throughout the Metro Area. Visit www.children’smercy.org/urgentcare.

CVS and Walgreens throughout the area have walk-in care at many of their locations. Locations at these facilities are only open during the store’s business hours The Urgency Room – Visit www.nextcare.com to see the five locations in Overland Park, Liberty, Lee’s Summit, Merriam and Kansas City.

Looking for a super doctor?

00.

0 2 r e v o We have

Find a doctor and schedule online* 24/7 at MyMidwestPhysician.com.

Belton Regional Medical Center Centerpoint Medical Center Lafayette Regional Health Center Lee’s Summit Medical Center

* Participating providers only.

Menorah Medical Center Overland Park Regional Medical Center Research Medical Center

To view all HCA Midwest Health physicians, visit hcamidwest.com.

The Level of ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Available in Kansas and Missouri Area Schools IS IN A

Class by Itself n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

A

move to the Kansas City Metro area is a smart one if you have or plan to have children. Whether you plan to enroll your children in one of the excellent public schools in the area or the private schools and online learning options, you will find educational choices are bountiful.

Preparing students for their future are the school districts in Johnson County.

In the Blue Valley School District, 2015 Graduates posted the highest ACT and SAT scores of Kansas City Area metropolitan districts. The Shawnee Mission School District has a 91 percent graduation rate, and in 2015,

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graduating seniors received more than $32 million in scholarship offers. Like its other two Johnson County counterparts, the growing Olathe School District offers advanced courses and excellent educational opportunities.

Helping to develop a career path for students, the North Kansas City School District has partnered with the Metropolitan Community College for students to build skills in Engineering and Industrial Technology.

Accolades came to several eastern Jackson County school districts in 2015.

SCHOOLS IN EACH DISTRICT ARE SOME OF THE MOST ACCREDITED IN THE NATION.

We Invite You to Discover the Best Fit for Your Family!

The Blue Springs School District recently received the highest annual Performance Report score among large school districts in the State of Missouri.

Three high schools in the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District were among the top 25 high schools in Missouri to receive recognition in U.S. News and World Report’s annual “America’s Best High Schools” in the spring of 2015.

As with other schools in the area, college prep classes are a big part of school curriculum. The private schools in the area including The Barstow School, Pembroke Hill School, Rockhurst High School, Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, St. Teresa’s Academy, Notre

Dame de Sion School, St. Thomas Aquinas and many more.

Finding the best fit for your child‘s educational needs and the environment that he or she excels is an important part of your relocation. The following is a sampling of you and your child’s choices.

ABC Preschool A Better Choice (ABC) Preschool, LLC in downtown Lee’s Summit is a private esteemed academic preschool that prepares children academically and socially for kindergarten, and life-long learning. ABC Preschool’s innovative curriculum is based on current brain research. t KC RELO

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Katy Lautzenhiser, Director and Lead Teacher, explains,“Elementary educators are finding far too many students are entering Kindergarten unprepared, which leads to children falling further behind.

ABC Preschool targets how a child develops – mentally, emotionally, and socially – during a child’s crucial early years of growth, and invests in your child’s success beyond the preschool walls.”

All ABC Preschool teachers are certified educators, and the early childhood facility maintains the latest education practices.

“As the industry has grown and expanded, we continue to keep current with the fast growing exploration and development in brain research, and the way children

learn. We only hire the best teachers who receive ongoing training and education throughout each school year. We are more than a school: we are an extension of families and a part of our community.”

ABC Preschool offers flexible options to meet an individual family’s needs regarding budget, education goals, and schedules.“We trust families are important partners in what we do, and ensure parents are actively involved through participation in school events.

We encourage volunteering in our school, providing parents with daily electronic journals, bi-monthly progress reports, an interactive web page, and more.”

ABC Preschool 8 SE 5th Street, Lee’s Summit, MO (816) 246-6562 www.abcpreschoolpage.com The Barstow School The Barstow Show, located 11511 State Line, is a co-educational school where students in preschool through twelfth grade develop a challenging educational community. The goal of the Barstow School is to graduate well-rounded selfconfident individuals, offer a rigorous and challenging college preparatory curriculum and provide opportunities to develop leadership and enhance for lifelong learning.

The Barstow School 11511 State Line, Kansas City, MO (816) 942-3227 www.barstowschool.org Blue Springs School District The Blue Springs School District covers a total of 58 square miles and includes students from the communities of Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Independence, Lake Tapawingo and Lee’s Summit. Enrollment for the 2016-17 school year is more than 14,800 students. Within our boundaries, we have more than 80,000 residents. Our district has a rich tradition of academic excellence. This tradition continues with major advancements in our curriculum and efforts through technology placing materials in student hands wherever they might be. The district has received Accreditation with Distinction from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for 16 consecutive years.

Blue Springs School District (816) 874-3200 www.bssd.net Blue Valley School District Blue Valley Schools is committed to providing students an Education Beyond Expectations—an education filled with opportunities. Located in suburban Kansas City, in the heart of Johnson County, Kansas, this 91-square mile school district serves more than 22,000 students at its five high schools, nine middle schools and 20 elementary schools. Blue Valley consistently ranks among the top school districts in the nation, striving to provide each student t

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with the opportunity to experience unprecedented academic success and unparalleled personal growth through personalized student learning.

The district offers many special programs including the Blue Valley Academy, a non-traditional program for high school students; ACCESS, a program teaching independent living skills for students with moderate to severe disabilities; and the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS), an innovative program for high school juniors and seniors, providing real-world, hands-on learning experience.

For more about Blue Valley Schools, visit www.bluevalleyk12.org.

Blue Valley School District (913) 239-4000 www.bluevalleyk12.org Maranatha Christian Academy Maranatha Christian Academy (MCA) has been providing excellence in Christian education in the Shawnee, Kansas, area for over 40 years. The mission of MCA is to train and equip students for life and for service to Jesus Christ through a biblical worldview, character development, and academic excellence. To accomplish these goals, MCA works with Christian parents and their students to provide a consistently solid biblical foundation on which their college preparatory foundation is built.

That foundation is strengthened by having biblically integrated curriculum in every subject and by enabling students to meet or exceed state and national academic standards.

Maranatha Christian Academy 6826 Lackman Road, Shawnee, KS (913) 631-0637 www.mca-eagles.org North Kansas City Schools Just north of Kansas City’s vibrant downtown, North Kansas City Schools is a district of nearly 19,500 learners who benefit daily from an academically rigorous curriculum for grades Pre-K to 12. The district has earned both state and national accreditation and is recognized throughout Missouri as a leader in academic innovation.

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metropolitan area with 21 elementary schools, five middle schools and four high schools. In addition, the school district offers optional Pre-K and before/ after school programs, expansive gifted/ honors opportunities, career and professional academics, A+ certified high schools, as well as nationally recognized adult and community education programs for learners of all ages.

In North Kansas City Schools, every student achieves his or her unique potential through extraordinary educational experiences provided by exceptional educators who are supported by an engaged, diverse community.

North Kansas City Schools (816) 321-5000 www.nkcschools.org

A place to grow academically and spiritually...join our community!

Notre Dame de Sion Notre Dame de Sion schools offer a premier education at two locations in the Kansas City metro.

Sion’s High School has a strong commitment to educating minds, expanding hearts, and empowering lives. Young women grow spiritually, emotionally and socially, while being

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish 14201 Nall Avenue, Leawood, KS 66223

For information about our church, preschool or K-8 grade school,

www.stmichaelcp.org or 913-402-3900

t

BEFORE YOU CHOOSE YOUR HOME, CHOOSE YOUR SCHOOL

WWW.BARSTOWSCHOOL.ORG/VISITING THE BARSTOW SCHOOL

COLLEGE PREP EDUCATION FOCUSING ON MIND, BODY AND CHARACTER

CO-ED • INDEPENDENT • PRESCHOOL–GRADE 12 • SINCE 1884

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challenged academically with our college preparatory curriculum.

Sion’s Grade School offers Preschool-8th grade classes in a co-ed environment.

Students are challenged to think outside the box by infusing core classes with our STEAM program, community garden and indoor swimming pool. Who says you can’t learn math in the pool?

Two campuses + One Mission = SION. Learn more www.ndsion.edu Notre Dame de Scion High School Campus 10631 Wornall Road Kansas City Missouri 64114 (816) 942-3282 Grade School Campus 3823 Locust Kansas City, Missouri 64109 (816) 753=3810 www.mdsion.com

Park Hill schools are top-ranking, high-performing and committed to preparing all students for their future college and career goals.

Oakhill Day School Oakhill Day School is the Northland’s premier independent school for students

www.parkhill.k12.mo.us

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entering grades Toddler (age 2) through Eighth. Our mission is to provide your children with excellence in education through child-centered learning in a supportive, challenging, and rewarding environment that provides students with self-confidence, values, knowledge, and the foundation for leadership through emotional, physical, and social development. Oakhill students receive a foundation for learning that stays with them through high school, college, and beyond. Learn more about our academics, athletics, farm-to-school lunches, and more online at www.oakhilldayschool.org. or call Leah Gipe, Director of Admissions, Leah.gipe@oakhilldayschool.org

state and national averages. Olathe has earned 18 National Blue Ribbon School Awards from the US Department of Education. The district has received national awards for outstanding professional development for teachers, and is home to two 2016 Horizon Award winners, the 2013 Kansas Superintendent of the Year, a 2014 Master Teacher, the 2012 Kansas Teacher of the Year and the student co-champion of the 2015 Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Oakhill Day School 7019 N Cherry Street Gladstone, MO 64118 (816) 436-6228 www.oakhilldayschool.org

Total enrollment is 29,567 students.

Facilities – 35 Elementary schools, eight middle schools and four high schools. For more information visit ww.olatheschools.com.

Olathe Public Schools The Olathe School District is the second largest school district in Kansas. Students’ test scores consistently rank among the top 10 percent in the nation with ACT and SAT scores above

The district offers innovative 21st Century High School Programs, including aerospace and engineering, biosciences, geosciences and e-communication.

Olathe Public Schools (913) 780-7000 www.olatheschools.com Park Hill School District Park Hill schools are top-ranking, highperforming and committed to preparing t

EDUCATIONAL CHOICES ARE BOUNTIFUL.

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The Pembroke Hill School An independent, college preparatory school serving 1,200 students, 2 years - 12th grade; near the Country Club Plaza!

A Caring Community Inspired By Excellence.

• Small classes (11:1 student:teacher ratio) • Challenging curriculum • Excellent faculty • Personalized college counseling • Reggio Emilia-inspired early child• Transportation service from the hood school Northland and Johnson County • Leader in student • Financial aid available technology/iLab For Info: 816-936-1231 • Extensive extracurricular/athletic www.pembrokehill.org program RESPECT COMPASSION SCHOLARSHIP INTEGRITY

Academic Excellence

Cont.

all students for their future college and career goals. Park Hill was the first district to receive the Missouri Quality Award and the only district to earn it twice for its commitment to continuous improvement.

U.S. World and News Report ranked our high schools among the top 20 in Missouri, and the district consistently earns the state’s top honors and some of the highest MAP scores. Our district also earned the highest ACT composite scores in the Kansas City, Missouri, area, and our students earn national recognition for academics and extracurriculars.

Park Hill School Districs 7703 NW Barry Road Kansas City, MO 64153 (816) 359-4000 www.parkhill.k12.mo.us Pembroke Hill Pembroke Hill is an independent college prep school near the Country Club Plaza.

Enrolling nearly 1,200 students 2 years through 12th grade, the school offers small classes (11:1 student: teacher ratio),

She’s prepared for success.

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exciting and challenging curriculum, outstanding teachers and an extensive extracurricular program. Nearly 80 percent of upper schoolers are involved in a club while 82 percent are on an athletic team.

5121 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO 816-936-1200

Pembroke Hill offers transportation from the Northland and Johnson County and provides 22 percent of students $2.9 million in financial aid. Students live in 73 zip codes in Missouri and Kansas.

Approximately 25 percent of students are students of color.

Students and families receive personalized college counseling. All graduates attend a four-year college/ university; 22 percent of the Class of 2016 received National Merit recognition.

Wornall Campus Early Childhood & Lower Schools 400 West 51st Street 816-936-1200 www.pembrokehill.org

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN OUR KANSAS CITY METRO AREA SCHOOLS.

Rockhurst High School Rockhurst High School is a place of formation, where students are committed to a deeper experience, empowered by the Spirit. For more than 100 years, Rockhurst has been a place where boys become young men, with minds, bodies and souls prepared for the challenges of college and life beyond.

Located on State Line Road, Rockhurst welcomes 9-12 grade boys from both Kansas and Missouri. A leader in academics, athletics and co-curricular activities, Rockhurst draws a student body that is ethnically and socioeconomically diverse from 95 different zip codes. The entire student body represents more than 127 elementary and junior high schools from the metropolitan area. t

Community service is an important aspect at Pembroke Hill. Students must volunteer at least 60 hours; most exceed this requirement. The school promotes character development through its core values: scholarship, compassion, respect and integrity.

Ward Parkway Campus Middle & Upper Schools

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First and foremost at Rockhurst are academics. The school is proud of its growing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) and Robotics programs.

99% of graduates attend a 4-year college or university, and the Class of 2016 includes 13 National Merit Semifinalists and three perfect ACT scores.

Rockhurst High School 9301 State Line, Kansas City, MO (816) 363-2036 www.rockhurst.edu St. Michael the Archangel School St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School is now enrolling students for the 2017/17 school year. Established in 2002, St. Michael provides a safe, faith-centered learning environment for ages three years through eighth grade.

Our mission is to educate the whole child by upholding high academic standards and sharing the Catholic faith, while creating a strong sense of community. St. Michael students are taught to live, love, learn and go forth to serve.

For questions or to schedule a tour, please contact our principal, Mr. Michael Cullinan, Ed.S. at 913-402-3950 or mike. cullinan@stmichaelcp.org.

St. Michaels the Archangel School 14251 Nall, Overland Park, Kansas (913) 402-3900 www.stmichaelcp.org St. Theresa’s Academy St. Teresa’s Academy, a rigorous college-prep school for young women, was founded over 150 years ago by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. Located on a beautiful, college-like campus in the heart of the Brookside and south Plaza neighborhoods, St. Teresa’s promotes excellence in education. The wireless campus, one-to-one tablet program and distance learning classrooms enhance our global education initiatives.

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Accredited by the North Central Association/ AdvancED since 1923, St. Teresa’s molds students into confident, skilled, and caring young women through a challenging curriculum, an all-female environment, a diverse student body, Christian values, a community service program, and personal responsibility. t FALL/WINTER 2017

BVEF has funded more than $4 million in grants, scholarships and special programs that support educational excellence for Blue Valley students.

For more information, visit www.bvef.org.

SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY

A National Model

Summit Technology Academy has been recognized in the national spot light as an innovative model to prepare juniors and seniors in high school for high wage, high demand, professional careers.

Summit Technology Academy’s success has been built upon its ability to provide rigorous programs of study that blend classroom instruction with real-world, hands-on experiences with over 200 business and industry partners.

ENGINEERING

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Explore STA’s Pathways

Software Development Networking | Cyber Security

HEALTH SCIENCE

CREATIVE SCIENCE

Aerospace | Mechanical Electrical | Civil

Biomedical Nursing | Allied Health

International Studies Digital Media | Education Cadet

Academic Excellence

Cont.

St. Theresa’s Academy (816) 501-4011 www.stteresasacademy.org Shawnee Mission School District The Shawnee Mission School District is consistently ranked among the finest school districts nationwide for its high student performance. Its cornerstone Signature Programs include Biotechnology, Engineering (Project Lead The Way), Medical Health Science, and Culinary Arts and Hospitality. Two new programs are Global Systems, allowing students to explore careers in sustainable food systems, and Project Blue Eagle, which provides training for careers in law enforcement, firefighting and EMT. The district boasts high graduation rates and achievement scores. The 1:1 initiative provides each student with a tablet or laptop to support learning. New stateof-the-art facilities offer safe, secure, and creative learning environments.

The Shawnee Mission District is in northeast Johnson County, Kansas, ten miles from downtown Kansas City, Missouri.

It serves 14 cities within the county.

Shawnee Mission School District (913) 993-6200 www.smsd.org

Apply Today!

For more information and to apply go to: sta.lsr7.org

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Summit Christian Academy Summit Christian Academy is a Top 5 Private School in the Kansas City area.

Since 1989, Summit Christian Academy (SCA) has grown from 32 students to 800, has been selected a top five private school in the Kansas City Metropolitan area, and has been recognized as one of the top 100 “large and effective schools” by the Association of Christian Schools

International. With its strong mission of inspiring students to achieve their God-given potential through excellent academics and Christian training in a compassionate environment, SCA has earned a reputation as a top-notch school with stellar academics, excellent performing arts and athletics all in a fun, family-friendly environment.

SCA is situated on a 36-acre campus near 50 Highway and 291 South. We welcome your family to be part of the SCA family! Call 816-525-1480 today for more information or visit the summitchristian-academy.org website.

Summit Christian Academy 1450 SW Jefferson (816) 524-0185 www.summit-christian-academy.org Summit Technology Academy The Lee’s Summit School District’s new Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus is taking shape thanks to a no-tax-increase bond issue.

The MIC program is a one-of-a-kind endeavor offering the most accelerated degree path in the country. STA is an offcampus opportunity for area high school students seriously interested in computer science, engineering, health sciences or creative sciences. College credit is attached to all of the programs. The typical student at STA is usually focused on a specific career path and has the determination to explore that field through in-depth studies and practical application. For more information, visit http://sta.lsr7.org or http://ucmo.edu/mic.

Summit Technology Academy (816) 986-3410 www.sta.ls7.org

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Kansas City is the Ideal Place to

n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

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W

Higher Education

hether you are moving to the Kansas City area to take advantage of a new job adventure or you want to be closer to your family, at some point you are going to start thinking of higher education options for you or your family.You will find that there is a wide array of junior colleges, four-year universities along with other graduate programs.

Most of these schools cater to the working professional as well as the full time student. In Johnson County, the KU Edwards Campus in Southern Johnson County offers 30 undergraduate and graduate degree completion programs including the MBA program from KU’s business school as well as doctorial programs. In Olathe, Kansas State opened a campus several years ago focusing on animal health and food security at the graduate level.

Full time students as well as working adults will find a home at Baker University at their main campus in Baldwin, Kansas as well as Overland

Park, Lee’s Summit and the Northland.

The college recently added an advance degree in Sports Management to their many graduate and undergraduate degree programs.

Rich in history, Ottawa University offers classes at its Overland Park location as well as online. Understanding that many students have unusual schedules, they offer support to students through their 24/7 helpline.

Combining academics with an authentically Christian perspective is the mission of the MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe. With more than 40 undergraduate programs and 6 graduate degrees, students find that the average class size of 16 students is extremely beneficial to their learning experience. The MidAmerica Nazarene University attracts students from 35 states and 5 countries.

With the distinction of being one of the top providers of education courses

of the military, Park University offers accelerated eight week sessions online and face-to-face in Parkville, Kansas City and Independence.

Those in need of Certificate programs will find many options in the area.

University of Central Missouri in Lee’s Summit offers a number of complete certificate and degree programs in child and family development, criminal justice, management, nursing and social work as well as numerous graduate programs.

New residents in the area can also take advantage of exceptional Junior Colleges including Johnson County Community College, which is ranked as the third largest educational institution in the state of Kansas; Johnson County Community College offers a full range of undergraduate credit courses and 150 career and certificate programs that prepare students for employment. JCCC’s noncredit workforce development program is the largest most comprehensive in the t KC RELO

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Kansas City Area. In Missouri, the Metropolitan Community College, a group of five campuses throughout the Greater Kansas City Area, offers extensive workforce training and general academics.

As you begin to investigate your higher education options, take a look at the following sampling of colleges that are located in your new backyard.

Avila University Excellence. Faith-based. Suburban. Do these things that matter to you? Avila University understands. Avila graduate study programs in business, healthcare, education, psychology and management are designed to inspire. Avila offers affordable, graduate programs with flexible schedules to fit your lifestyle, with professional, real-world instructors. Avila serves busy adults wanting to enhance their lives, both personally and professionally.

Avila University is a non-profit university, inspired by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet that prepares students for responsible, lifelong contributions to the

global community. An excellent education inspires the best in Avila students, while they bring out the best in others.

Be Inspired. Earn your graduate degree at Avila University in south suburban Kansas City.

For more information and inspiration, visit www.avila.edu/gradstudies Baker University Baker is a private, liberal arts university that educates traditional and nontraditional students through small classes, innovative instructors and rigorous coursework. At Baker University, education is personal. Our community is the bond that will connect you to lifelong friends and associates, to professors that mentor and inspire and to supportive staff ready to help at any hour of the day.

Enriching campus activities, productive internships, career opportunities and international experiences are all a part of your education. In addition to the main campus in Baldwin, Kansas, Baker has campuses in Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Kansas City, Topeka and Wichita.

At each of Baker’s four schools – College of Arts and Sciences, School of Nursing, School of Professional and Graduate Studies and School of Education – the school’s faculty provides creative learning experiences while challenging students to analyze issues with depth and clarity.

Students fully engage in their education and connect with peers, faculty and staff.

Johnson County Community College With more than 46,000 students enrolled in credit and noncredit classes each year, Johnson County Community College (JCCC) is one of the state’s largest institutions of higher education. Known for excellence in programming and teaching, JCCC provides resources of a large-university with the feel of a small college where students take center stage.

Explore all that JCCC offers.Visit www. jccc.edu, call (913)469-3803 or schedule a campus tour. Know the value..

Kansas State University – K-State Olathe Campus The goal of this K-State Olathe campus

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER, OR START A NEW ONE. Whether it’s a bachelor’s or master’s degree or a certificate program to help you get ahead, the University of Central Missouri – Lee’s Summit offers affordable, in-demand programs with the flexibility to fit your busy life.

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ucmo.edu/summit

is to teach students but also be a place where professionals come to continue their learning. It is home to graduate level students as they prepare for careers in the biosciences and biotechnology, with opportunities to work with faculty from Kansas State as well as industry scientists.

Those already in the business world benefit from the presence of the campus, which helps train the future workforce on the latest industry technology and keep it informed of the most recent developments by holding seminars and workshops. It also houses collaborations between researchers and companies, both public and private, so that the technology being developed is what the businesses in the industry are demanding.

K-State Olathe offers master’s degree and graduate certificate options that are in-demand in the Kansas City metro area. With academic programs focusing on animal health and nutrition, food safety and security, and education and leadership dynamics, our students are able to hone their scientific and technical skills while mastering business and leadership practices that will advance their careers and their organizations.

Ottawa University Established in 1865, Ottawa University (OU) is a private, nonprofit, liberal arts institution dedicated to preparing students for a lifetime of enlightened faith, exemplary service, inspired leadership and personal significance.

Ottawa University has a residential campus in Ottawa, KS, adult campuses in four states and a robust online program.Today, more than 90 percent of our student body consists of working adults who are benefiting from a rich history and life-friendly undergraduate and graduate programs with accelerated 8-week courses online or at our Overland Park, KS, adult campus.

Park University One visit to Park University’s charming flagship campus in Parkville – or to our conveniently-located campus centers in downtown Kansas City and Independence – and you’ll discover what we’ve known for 140 years and counting: there’s no place like Park!

Ranked among the nation’s top schools for academic quality, accessibility, military friendliness and return on investment, Park has helped advance the careers of thousands, including many of Kansas City’s business, health care, public affairs and technology leaders.

If inclusion in a global community of excellence sounds appealing, we have that covered, too. Park serves 18,000 students worldwide with an extended campus system that helps individuals in practically every walk of life achieve their full potential.Whether entering college from high school, transferring from another institution, returning to finish a degree, or pursuing a master’s degree to advance your career, Park has options to meet your needs, both face-to-face and online – and we continually evaluate our programs, with an eye on employment trends, to keep our offerings current and relevant.

Call (877) 505-1059 or visit Park.edu to chat! You’ve chosen a great place to live.

Now, choose a great place to learn.

Park University. Close to home … far from ordinary.

University of Central Missouri – Lee’s Summit (UCM) UCM – Lee’s Summit, serves as the university’s residence center for educational opportunities and workforce development in the Kansas City region. The facility offers a number of complete certificate and degree programs, as well as programs consisting

of online coursework or courses on the main campus in Warrensburg. Evening and weekend courses allow students to advance their careers while balancing their education with work and family.

University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC) The University of Missouri-Kansas City is recognized for the quality of its faculty, students, research and community leadership. Located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, the University of Missouri-Kansas City is a public research university focused on urban issues. At UMKC, your mind will be opened to knowledge, diverse people and outstanding experiences, allowing you to further explore those areas of your life in which you are already engaged. Named one of the Best Midwestern Colleges by Princeton Review, UMKC boasts a 12-1 student faculty ratio. The nationally and internationally recognized Henry W. Bloch School of Management is among the more than 120 majors and programs that draw students to UMKC n each year.

BE INSPIRED.

On campus. Online.

Evenings. Weekends.

Master’s in Business Administration Master’s in Counseling Psychology Master’s in Organizational Development

Master’s in Education Master’s in Management Master’s in Psychology

Graduate Certificates in business, psychology, education and management 11901 Wornall Rd. KCMO 64145

avila.edu/relo

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FINDING A

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n important piece of your move to the Kansas City Area is finding a home for your religious faith and spirituality. No matter what your faith or beliefs, you will soon find that home. The Kansas City area’s diverse population means that there are an abundance of choices that will meet the criteria you and your family are looking for.

Church of the Nativity Church of the Nativity is a thriving Catholic parish located at 3800 W 119th Street in the heart of Leawood.

The Nativity family prides itself on service to others, whether in our parish or surrounding community. On a daily basis, our parishioners visit the sick and take communion to homes,

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AN IMPORTANT PIECE OF YOUR MOVE TO THE KANSAS CITY AREA IS FINDING A HOME FOR YOUR RELIGIOUS FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY.

There is a place for everyone at Nativity.

We encourage you to come and worship with us soon. See our website for more information on our parish activities and ministry in Leawood and beyond.

Congregation Beth Torah Congregation Beth Torah is a modern, Reform Jewish congregation dedicated to creating an inclusive, caring community and providing opportunities for Lifelong Learning through both formal and informal education and meaningful worship every Friday night, Shabbat morning and all Holy Days. We strive to encourage and promote ethical Jewish living, spiritual and personal growth, social justice and the continuity of the Jewish people.

Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209 913.491.5017 www.kcnativity.org

Congregation Beth Torah 6100 West 127, Overland Park, KS (913) 498-2212 www.beth-torah.org

nursing facilities and hospitals. We serve meals at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen, bring in thousands of pounds of food in quarterly food drives, distribute thousands of dollars to ministries locally and worldwide, and participate in countless other service projects each year. At Nativity we believe in being the hands and feet of Christ here on earth.

First Presbyterian Church of Lee’s Summit First Presbyterian Church of Lee’s Summit offers Christ-(FPCLS) centered and relationship based worship services and programming for all ages. Sunday mornings begin with a Contemporary Worship Service at 9:00 am with our Praise Band,“Carbon Copy” leading worship. Our 11:00 am service is for those who prefer a more Traditional Worship experience and includes our adult “Chancel” Choir, special music and on many Sundays, one of our two Bell Choirs. At 10:00 am each Sunday we have a time of Faith and Fellowship with a relaxed coffee fellowship. t

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PHOTO BY AARON DOUGHERTY

During the school year, we offer engaging, inclusive programming for our children and youth. Small groups abound at FPCLS for our older adults and young adults, women’s Bible study and a popular men’s breakfast group that does much more around the church than just eat breakfast!

We celebrate the love of Christ, have fun and enjoy fellowship at FPCLS and we hope you will join us one Sunday in the near future. For more information, you may call the church office at (816) 524-3933 or log onto firstchurchls.org.You may also look for us on Facebook.

First Presbyterian Church of Lee’s Summit 1625 NW O’Brien Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 (816) 524-3933 www.firstchurchls.org Grace Church Our vision here at Grace Church is to help everyone become an outward-focused follower of Jesus. Our mission is to love, learn, and lead with God, household, and church. We would love to have you and your family join us as our guests for any one of our five weekend services on t

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WELCOME HOME TO THE CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION

Discover a church that speaks to your life, challenges your mind and inspires you to make a difference in the world.

One church with four locations. Join us for worship this weekend. cor.org Leawood

West

13720 Roe Ave. Leawood, KS 66224

24000 W. Valley Parkway Olathe, KS 66061

Downtown

1522 McGee Kansas City, MO 64108

Blue Springs 601 NE Jefferson St. Blue Springs, MO 64014

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Saturday evenings at 4 and 5:30pm, and Sunday mornings at 8, 9:30, and 11am. We are located on the corner of 159th St. & Antioch. We will see you this weekend!

Grace Church 8500 West 159th, Overland Park, KS (913) 7814- 7223 www.visitgracechurch.org St. Andrews Episcopal Church At St. Andrew’s, we combine rich tradition and modern messages for a fresh spiritual experience. St. Andrews wants to support you through all phases of your faith journey and helps you rediscover Christ’s love through ritual, reason and meaningful connections. At St. Andrew’s, we invite you to live a life-long and life-wide faith.

We believe we are called not simply to believe in Christ, but also to serve Christ in our Parish, our city and our world. St. Andrew’s serves by holding in tandem rich tradition and fresh spiritual expression with diverse ways to worship, connect and grow. We believe that contributions of “all sorts” of people help us better know the

Get Connected

A membership to Congregation Beth Torah includes tickets to all High Holy Day Worship services for you and your family, in addition to so much more.

Church of the Nativity

Choosing a synagogue is one of the most personal choices you will make. If you are looking for a Reform congregation big enough to offer all the educational, community and religious opportunities of a large congregation and small enough to offer you a sense of intimacy and belonging, then Congregation Beth Torah is the choice for you.

Visit www.kcnativity.org; bulletins, events, Mass schedules, faith formation opportunities and more!

PLEASE JOIN US FOR WORSHIP:

Like us on Facebook: Church of the Nativity, Leawood OR Email us: info@kcnativity.org 3800 W. 119th Street, Leawood, KS 184

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EREV SHABBAT NOSH: 6:00 P.M. WORSHIP: 6:30 P.M. SHABBAT WORSHIP 10:30 A.M. 6100 W 127th Street, OP, KS • (913) 498-2212 • www.beth-torah.org

913.491.5017

For more information contact us at info@beth-torah.org

mind of God. Our rich and proud history of personal connections reminds us that by only loving openly can we truly know healing. We invite you for a tour of our weekly services or to learn more, visit www.standrewwkc.org.

St. Andrews Episcopal Church 6401 Wornall Terrace, Kansas City, MO (816) 523-1603 www.standrewkc.org The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection is an integral part of Overland Park and the greater Kansas City community. The church’s impact extends well beyond the walls of the church, as members give their time and resources to help meet the needs of their neighbors.

Resurrection is the largest United Methodist church in the United States, with 20,000 members and 16 worship services each weekend at four locations

in the Kansas City area – Leawood, Downtown, Western Johnson County and Blue Springs.

In 2015, the church celebrated their 25th anniversary with a “Give Back 25” theme, serving more than 25,000 hours in 25 days. As the church looks to the future, construction projects on each of their campuses are creating spaces for future generations to see how the Christian faith can change their lives and how they in turn can help transform the world.

United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Leawood 13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, KS (913) 897-0120 West 2400 Valley Parkway, Olathe, KS (913) 538-7800 Downtown 1522 McGee, Kansas City, MO (816) 979-1330

Blue Springs 601 NE Jefferson, Blue Springs, MO (816) 389-8900 www.cor.org Unity Church of Overland Park Unity Church of Overland Park welcomes you just as you are and recognizes that each person is on their own unique spiritual journey.There are many paths to God and we honor all faiths, backgrounds, ethnicities and diverse expressions of individuals and families.There is a place for you in our spiritual community and we hope you’ll join us for our Sunday celebration services, classes, workshops and events offered seven days a week. At Unity you can connect with like-minded people in an inclusive environment, allowing you to grow spiritually, have fun and experience a fulfilled life of abundance and meaning.

We have a diverse ministerial team led by Rev. Bob Barth.

Unity Church of Overland Park 10300 Antioch, Overland Park, KS (913) 649-1750 www.ucop.org

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PHOTO BY MARK MCDONALD

WE HAVE AN OPEN HEART AND EXEMPLIFY THE CRÈME DE LA CRÈME OF GENEROSITY AND NEIGHBORLY LOVE.

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KANSAS CITY

IS THE

Definition

Giving OF

...in Many, Many Genres

n B Y J U DY G O P P E RT

T

he city of Kansas City has long been touted as a Midwestern mecca on many levels. We have an open heart and exemplify the crème de la crème of generosity and neighborly love.

To back up my comments, here is the meat of the story. Read on and see t what a great community we are!

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Definition OF Giving

Continued

PHOTO BY DAVE LEATHERS

KANSAS CITY IS THE

Gentlemen, and women, start your engines! Talk about a party with a purpose, Treads & Threads fills that bill and then some. This event benefits The University of Kansas Hospital, and has become one of the most anticipated philanthropic events in the city. Sponsors, patrons and guests of this annual gala have contributed more than $8 million to further expand and improve cancer care. At a venue like no other, under the stars, inside the oval at the Kansas Speedway, the event features top entertainment and delights from KC’s top restaurants, caterers and dessert specialists, with wine and specialty drinks concocted especially for this event. What’s more, attendees can experience the Kansas Speedway up close and personal by taking a victory lap around the track. It is truly an extraordinary party with an even more extraordinary purpose of providing more options, and more hope, to patients battling cancer.

Visit treadsandthreads.org for more information.

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PHOTO BY THE KANSAS CITY ZOO

PHOTO BY BLUESTEM

Jazzoo is a premier event in Kansas City each summer, drawing up to 5,000 creative black tie clad attendees each year who enjoy samplings from over 70 area restaurants, live music performed by local artists and all the animal attractions.

Founded in 1990 by the Junior League, this festive event has become a roaring success, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to feed the more than 1,100 animals who make the Kansas City Zoo their home. It also supports the Zoo Learning t

Building Bridges of Hope For Teens Transitioning Out of Foster Care

DarolRodrockFoundation.org

Follow Us!

Darol Rodrock Foundation • P.O. Box 25390 • Overland Park, Kansas 66225 Phone: 913-293-8177

PHOTO BY EXTRA VIRGIN

Fund, which creates educational programs for children throughout the Kansas City area. The 250 dedicated volunteers are proud of the some 275 sponsors and many amazing auction items that further exemplify the amazing caring spirit alive and “purring” in our city.

Visit jazzoo.com for more information.

Eat to give! That is the idea behind the scrumptious Kansas City Restaurant Week, held each winter. Over 150 restaurants participate, and include a who’s who of diverse dining options, including old favorites and new delights. This event supports local causes, and in this its seventh year, partnered with three worthwhile, local charitable partners as beneficiaries. The donations raised during the 2016 event benefited BoysGrow, Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired and Cultivate Kansas City. Additionally, the Kansas City Regional Destination Development Foundation and the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association Education Foundation again received a portion of the donations.

Visit kansascityrestaurantweek.com for more information.

The 21st Annual JDRF Dream Gala will be held in May, chaired

by Clark and Tavia Hunt, Kansas City Chiefs owners. This event draws many caring attendees for an evening at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott, with cocktail reception, dinner and live auction. Last year’s gala raised $2,000,328 to help end this childhood disease.Visit jdrf.com for more information.

The 43rd Hospital Hill Run, which winds through the Country Club Plaza, Brookside and Crown Center area, will be held this summer, and it is truly one of the most storied races in Missouri history. Ninety-nine runners participated in the first race in 1973, and now, some 9,000 run each year. In 2008 the Run team created a new charity program that allowed organizations of all sizes and interests to raise funds in a fun and exciting way, by taking part in one of three amazing events.

Sixteen charities joined the inaugural year bringing over 200 participants to the event and raising over $50,000 for their respective causes. In the past five years there have been 2,188 charity participants, 1,283 charity volunteers who have raised $808,818 for their respective causes. Through this Run, dogs have been rescued, kids have gone to camp, people with spinal cord injuries have receive therapy, Alzheimer’s families have received respite care, research has been forwarded and much more.Visit hospitalhillrun.com for more information.

PHOTO BY GAMEFACE MEDIA

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is making strides to help cure this disease, and Kansas City has a lot to do with it.

Continued PHOTO BY EXTRA VIRGIN

Definition OF Giving PHOTO BY THE KANSAS CITY ZOO

KANSAS CITY IS THE

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The American Royal annually hosts the World’s largest barbecue contest, one of the Midwest’s largest and oldest livestock exhibitions and professional rodeos, prestigious horse shows and is home of the National Championship Saddlebred horse competition. During the year more than 270,000 people attend events at the American Royal Complex.

In addition to its educational mission, the American Royal generates some $60 million of economic impact, $4.4 million in local tax revenues, and supports 450 jobs.

PHOTO BY THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

PHOTO BY MARK MCDONALD

The American Royal Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has been a beloved Kansas City tradition since 1899. This organization celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage through competition, education and entertainment. As a not-for-profit community volunteer based organization, the American Royal raises funds to fulfill its vision and mission though endowments, contributions, sponsorships and event revenues.

right here in our community. Last year alone, American Heart Association supporters in the Kansas City metro made the following possible: $3.8 million in research funding in the Kansas City area including meritorious studies at Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas State University, The Stowers Institute, University of Kansas Medical Center, University of Missouri and University of Missouri-Kansas City. Last year they reduced teenage tobacco usage in Kansas by supporting the American Heart Association’s advocacy for reduced cigarette taxes, resulting in a $.50 tobacco tax increase in Kansas and also empowered 81,000 local individuals to be CPR-trained by the American Heart Association.

From 2010-2014, the American Heart Association has funded 21 studies in Kansas at a cost of over $2.6 million and 136 studies in Missouri at $15.86 million. More than $2.7 million was awarded to Kansas City institutions.

Visit www.heart.org/KC for more information.

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For more information, visit www.americanroyal.com.

Be sure to find your niche and join in the giving spirit of Kansas City.

PHOTO BY AMERICAN ROYAL ASSOCIATION

PHOTO BY BLUESTEM

The American Heart Association’s 30th Kansas City Heart & Stroke Ball will be held Saturday, February 25, 2017, at the Kansas City Convention Center. This is always an unforgettable evening with life-saving significance. The dollars raised stay

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