Issuu

MAY 2020

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

CELEBRATING WOMEN

NASCAR'S JENNIFER COBB BIG SONIA: A LIVING MIRACLE SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2020 PUBLISHER

Matthew Perry | matthew@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Letter from the Editor OUR MAY ISSUE CELEBRATING WOMEN IS ALWAYS A FAVORITE ISSUE OF MINE TO PUT TOGETHER. I have been blessed with an abundance of positive female role models in my life who I continually look up to for guidance, wisdom and truth. One of my favorite qualities in so many women in my life is the ability to be confident in oneself but at the same time recognize the beauty and talent in other women and call out greatness in them. Women can tend to be competitive with each other, perhaps unintentionally, and at times I think we can forget how great it feels to build each other up. I have always believed in encouraging and empowering the people in my life, but my favorite little lady, my daughter Lilly, taught me years ago how impactful it can be to make an intentional effort to encourage strangers, too.

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@lifestylepubs.com DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Paul Versluis | paul.versluis@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Frank Flores | frank.flores@lifestylepubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Stacey Smith AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

When Lilly was four, her favorite thing was to tell every woman she came across that they

Angela Broockerd, Alan Goforth, Judy Goppert, Riley Cowing, Allison Swan

were beautiful. It first started at drive-thru windows. When we would pull up to pay or get

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

our food, without a doubt, her window in the back would immediately unroll so she could declare out the window to whoever was on the receiving side, “I think you are beautiful!” The response was always the same. Immediately the woman receiving her complement would genuinely light up with a beaming smile and shower her with gratitude. Occasionally some would get teary eyed or taken back and would let her know just how much they needed to hear that. This eventually turned into a regular occurrence wherever she went, and every female Lilly encountered got her sweet declaration, “I think you are beautiful!” At first I just thought it was cute that she was saying this to every girl she came across,

Paul Versluis

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

but then I started to notice the impact it had on everyone. It was such a simple thing to

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

say, but it changed every single person’s demeanor. So many of these women needed

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

to hear that they were beautiful because no matter what the world says is beautiful,

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

there is beauty in all of us. And I know Lilly believed that. Even the women who looked like they may hear it all the time reacted with emotion. Barriers were broken down, and warmth immediately followed. This went on for years, and it gave me one of the first glimpses into her character that is still true today. In a world that thrives on competition, let’s take the time to encourage each other, appreciate the beauty in everyone and lift each other up, perhaps even a stranger. We all need each other. ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

I think you are beautiful! Love, Angela

Angela Broockerd, Editor Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER Jennifer Cobb PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISAAC RUBIO 4

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2020

FEATURES 08 Ready to Race Local NASCAR driver, Jennifer Cobb

24 The Sonia Effect A living miracle

30 Dear Younger Me Words of wisdom for the next generation

08 36

36 Behind the Brush: Artist Audrey Benskin

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Local Limelight

Trend Setter

36 Artistâ€™s Palette 42 Locally Owned 44 Backstage 46 DIY 49 Realty Report 50 Parting Thoughts

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

R E A DY TO RACE

JENNIFER COBB HAS BEEN IMMERSED IN THE RACECAR DRIVING WORLD SINCE 3 YEARS OLD AND SHOWS NO SIGN OF SLOWING DOWN.Â

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Photo by Isaac Rubio

FOR THOSE UNFAMILIAR WITH THE SPORT, RACECAR DRIVING APPEARS TO REQUIRE A BLEND OF COURAGE TO GO FAST WITH AN ABILITY TO KEEP HOLD OF THE STEERING WHEEL AND MASH THE GAS PEDAL. Professional racecar driver Jennifer Jo Cobb notes that there’s more to it than meets the eye. “You’re chasing tenths of seconds,” Cobb says. “So the leader could be running a 29.0 second lap, which is one time around the circuit. You’re running a 29.5 second lap, and you’re in 25th place. You’re trying to find one or two tenths more to improve. The driver has to guide the crew to find clues for what the car wants in order to go faster. You’re trying to push the car to its limits without going over the limit and wreck it. It’s actually very stressful.” She adds, “It takes a lot of focus, but it takes a lot of calculating—what you’re feeling in your hands, in the steering wheel, what you’re feeling in the seat that the car is doing—is there a slight vibration? CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Photo by Isaac Rubio

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Is there a wiggle? You’re trying to diagnose so many different things while maintaining focus, while maintaining courage and praying for that wisdom that you’re conveying the right message back to your team.” Cobb’s father was a racecar driver, so she was exposed to the racing world at 3 years old. She described it as a lifestyle—working on the racecar, friends coming over and volunteering to help her dad and going to the race track on the weekends. When she started competing herself, the experience was like her dad said—you can’t describe the feeling. “It’s like being on a rollercoaster that you control,” she says. “It’s this really amazing relationship with the racecar, with the speed, with the potential danger, with the focus, with constantly trying to improve.” Cobb grew up racing weekly at Lakeside Speedway and I-70 Speedway, which were sanctioned as NASCAR grassroots tracks. She had been racing for 10 years when the Kansas Speedway was built, and she felt ready to race in the big leagues. When she had the opportunity to race in the ARCA series (the next level from local racing to NASCAR, according to Cobb), it became clear racing was more than just a hobby. “That’s when it really turned into a business for me because I was able to find sponsors and then take the money to existing teams because I was now no longer racing as a hobby, for my dad, just working on racecars in the garage,” she says. “I was meeting teams and becoming involved in the national scene and ultimately realized that if I had money, I could do this both on the business side and on the driver side.” In addition to racing, she shares her story as a motivational speaker. She also created Driven 2 Honor in 2011, a charity that honors women in the military. She hopes to show young girls who might not have the means for college or career education that the military is a viable option. The most rewarding part of the sport is the people she has met throughout her career. “Being on the race track and experiencing the thrill and the adrenaline is a little bit selfish,” she says. “So when I get to do things like what I do with the motivational speaking, it just feels like such a purpose.” This year marks Cobb’s 10th season as a full-time NASCAR driver and team owner. Her career has had its ups and downs, but she finds motivation to persevere in her faith and the power of other people around her. “I’ve been knocked on my butt more than a few times, to the point where it would’ve made total sense just to give in and to give up,” she says. “But every time I made the concrete decision not to give up and to forge forward—no matter how tough the circumstances were, whether it be financially or from a defeated standpoint of not quite being where you want to be—every time I decided to forge forward, some sort of a breakthrough happened.”

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

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TREND SETTER Photo by Paul Versuis

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH MICHELLE KOLICH

NINE ONE THREE SALON ARTICLE JUDY GOPPERT

WHEN YOU ARE A MIDWEST GAL WHO FINDS HER PASSION

discuss hair with her mom,” Kolich says. “I was about 6 years

IN CUTTING, STYLING, COLORING AND ENRICHING HAIR,

old and that left an impression on me. My mom likes to remind

YOU GET TO BE MICHELLE KOLICH. She has expertise in exten-

me how I would cut my troll dolls’ hair and other things with

sions, and her path has led her to her Nine One Three Salon inside

scissors. I even colored my hair blonde with a boxed color, and

BluSky Salon where she personally makes sure each of her clients

it turned orange!”

leaves feeling like a million bucks.

Kolich earned a bachelor’s degree in business marketing from

“When I was younger, one of my best friend’s parents were

Kansas State University in 2011, then studied under an apprentice-

hairstylists and owned their own salon. My friend and I got to go

ship of a local salon owner. While in college, she styled her sorority

on the local TV show, ‘Pepper and Friends,’ in Columbia, Mo. and

sisters’ hair for events and perfected her skill.

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Before

After

She offers authentic Natural Beaded Row Extensions or NBR, a

There is natural human hair and synthetic, with some being sourced

method developed by Danielle K. White, in Laguna Beach, Ca., to

ethically and others not. She sees as a big trend that clients are

provide clients with hair extensions that wouldn’t damage their hair

searching for the peace of mind that the hair they buy comes from

with tape or glues, would offer fullness in addition to length and were

companies that offer what she likes to call “trans-hair-ency.”

easier to install with less “chair time” for clients.

“Meaning you know where the hair was sourced, if it is human

“I attended Big Money Stylist (BMS) Convention which is an exclu-

hair, was it sourced ethically, is the product diluted with synthetic

sive training program that only accepts around 350 stylists each year

or animal hair, what types of dyes are they using on the hair,

and is not offered in traditional cosmetology school. The reason I

among other things,” she says.

emphasize Authentic NBR is that, as with anything, there are stylists

Another current trend is the often sought after “money-piece” which

out there who claim that they offer this type of extension method

is that brighter pop of blonde right around the client’s face to give a

who have not been through the BMS Program. Actually, a lot of my

natural more “lived in” color. Clients want that natural-looking color

extension business is fixing botched NBR extensions,” she says.

that mimics a young girl who just spent the summer at the beach.

Kolich stresses the importance of knowing the type of product

“While yes, I still use foils on a lot of my blondes, they are

your extension stylist is installing, as not all hair is created equal.

asking for shadow roots and a root smudge to give their blonde CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

Before

After

a more natural look. This also helps them go longer between

“This line is great for clients using color or extensions because

salon visits. My average NBR client comes in every eight weeks

it is free of sulfates and parabens. It also has many different prod-

for color and an adjustment, so it is important to give them at

ucts to aid in achieving a desired style.”

least eight weeks of color longevity,” she says. “Brunettes can get NBR too. I would, however, call myself a blonde specialist

Kolich adds that her clients enjoy her salon because it is personal and more private than an open salon.

and well sought-after blonde expert in the metro. I pride myself

“When clients are getting extensions done, a lot of times they

on delivering results of pictures clients show me in a safe way

don’t want others to know they wear them. Being in a salon suite

while keeping the integrity of their hair in mind.”

helps keep things more confidential for them.”

Kolich purchases extensions from Covet & Mane, an exclusive,

When not working with her many satisfied clients, Kolich spends

high-end natural hair product that uses 100 percent Remy Human

time with her husband, Todd, who she married two summers ago,

hair, or hair given with consent, then prepared through a propriety

and their baby girl, Vivienne.

“hand-tied” method which makes them lighter and more flexible than other extensions. She also offers Unite Hair Care Products in her suite. 16

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

For more information, visit NineOneThreeSalon.com, located at 5051 W. 134th St. #113 Leawood, KS 66209.

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CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

support local! LET'S TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER. OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES NEED US MORE THAN EVER.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR WAYS TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

DURING

THIS

UNPRECEDENTED

TIME? There are so many various industries affected by Covid19, and we are looking for ways to support the businesses that often support us. Our local businesses do so many things for our community and now is the time for us to give back to them. Countless times our businesses step up to sponsor our school events, area fundraisers and give to important area outreaches. Let’s find ways to show love to the businesses in our community. Here are some ways that some of our area

SUPPORT LOCAL!

ORT

LOCAL B US

UPPORT LOCA S S L

LOCAL BU SIN UPPORT LOCA S S L

ORT

P UP

businesses are finding ways to still offer services.

LEAWOOD FAMILY CARE We are committed to providing excellent care to our patients while also considering the health and safety of our patients, physicians, and staff. We understand the fear and concern surrounding COVID-19. We are here for you, and we know your concerns, so we

are making life a little easier. Telehealth visit is now available. You are able to connect with our physicians and nurse practitioners from the comfort of your home by requesting an appointment.

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

ROYAL GARAGE DOOR Royal Garage Door is doing everything we can to keep our ser-

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS Even in a stay-in-place order, Global Connections Travel Agency is servicing our clients from the socially distanced comfort of our

vices safely available during this time. We are:

own homes, facilitating the many questions arising due to growing 1. using electronic "paperwork"

recommendations and restrictions, and helping travelers just as

2. Requiring phone credit card payments instead of in-person

we always have. With the ability to book online, we’re encouraging

methods of payment

customers to give themselves future vacations to look forward

3. Not entering people’s homes, aside from the empty garage

to as well as providing great tips of what to do while we’re all at

4. Requiring customers to not enter or be present in the garage

home, patiently awaiting getting out and traveling again. This view,

5. Asking our employees to stay home if they or their family have

taken by one of our clients, can be yours again soon!

shown any sign of illness 6. Keeping a supply of disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer on our trucks Our goal is to not put our customers or employees in harm’s way while still providing essential service to our customers and a paycheck to our employees. Stay safe, and thank you for shopping local! Every small, family business appreciates your support.

Global Connections

CEDAR LAKE VILLAGE In the midst of a worldwide pandemic, older Americans at senior living communities all over the country are isolating in place. At Cedar Lake Village we are re-inventing our processes to best serve our seniors during this time. Meals are being delivered door-to-door by friendly staff members in all departments ready to offer a cheerful smile and positive attitude. New tablets have been purchased to assist residents with video calls to their loved ones. Residents are organizing “balcony parties” to maintain social contact with each other during this time of social distancing, and bingo games are being played throughout the hallways. If there is one thing we’ve learned from this pandemic, it’s the power of individuals coming together for the greater good to protect one another and encourage each other.

CONTINUED >

Royal Garage Door

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

SUPPORT LOCAL! (CONTINUED)

how can you help our local businesses?

TRUE PEACE FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS, LLC Most of us remember a time when face-to-face meetings were the Gold Standard—especially when those meetings involved our personal finances. In these changing times, we still prefer that Gold Standard treatment when it comes to financial conversa-

1. 2.

tions. At True Peace Financial Solutions, we offer the use of tech-

your questions in today’s financial environment. Schedule your face-to-face private visit with Leslie Davis today by calling our office at 913-681-2609. Yes, we still answer our phones! President Leslie Davis

at a later date. This gives the local business revenue to utilize now, and gives the customer something to look forward to spending at a later date.

Write a positive review for your favorite local spots. So often we visit locations and don't think of writing a positive review for that company. A positive review can boost the company's ratings and may encourage someone to be a future client or customer.

nology to provide a private, personal Gold Standard conversation with an independent financial advisor who is qualified to answer

Purchase a gift card from a local store to use

Do you love a local small business? Well shout it from the rooftops! Personal referrals are one of the best ways to obtain new clients or customers. Share on your social media pages about why you love a favorite local business

True Peace Financial Solutions, LLC

and make a conscious effort to refer your

7450 W. 130th St, Suite 215

favorites to your friends and neighbors.

Overland Park, KS 66213

interactive puzzles for dogs to keep them entertained. The CBD oil has also helped to keep them calm during this stressful time. It’s been so humbling how supportive the KC community has been. Instagram and Facebook have been great platforms for us to keep our customers updated with the latest news and updates. 20

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

SUPPORT LOCA LS

at the same time.

S ES

lars to spring toys and treats. Some popular items have included

talented people and support them financially

hours. We are fully stocked with everything from leashes and col-

is your opportunity to learn from incredibly

POR

T LOCAL BU SIN

US P P O R T LOCAL!

LOCAL B US

phone orders and offering curbside assistance with just limited

from local musicians, artists and more. Now

UPPORT LOCA S S L

You can’t forget about your furry friends during this crazy time. Consider us the grocery store for your pets. We have been taking

Sign-up for local online instructional classes

LAND OF PAWS

Think beyond just curbside pickup.

ORT

discover ways to support local businesses.

Visit the chamber of commerce website to

Office: 913-681-2609

AD ASTRA FINANCIAL GROUP Our team at Ad Astra Financial Group has quickly adapted to change during the COVID-19 outbreak. By utilizing world-class technology and secured networks we can operate from a distance while still staying in close communication with our valued clients via phone, email or video calls. But nothing beats a great conversation over a cup of coffee, and we look forward to getting back to our face-to-face client review meetings once this trying time for our country has passed.

CHILDREN'S MERCY During this rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation, Children’s Mercy is taking all precautions to protect our patients, families

Karen Reimer, CFP

and staff. Angela Myers, MD, MPH, Children’s Mercy Director,

George Hornbeck, Wealth Advisor

Division of Infectious Diseases, has tips for social distancing

Ad Astra Financial Group

during this challenging time.

13220 Metcalf, Suite 210, Overland Park, KS 66213

“Even if you and your family are feeling well, it is important to

358 N. Main, Suite 302, Wichita, KS 67202

stay home,” Dr. Myers says. “This is the time for you to catch up on

316-265-8400

your Netflix or play board games with your kids or make brownies.

www.AdAstraFinancialGroup.com

Do all the other fun things you can think to do while at home.”

Securities and investment advisory services offered through SagePoint Financial, Inc. (SPF), member FINRA/SIPC. SPF is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of SPF.

everyone they need to be washing their hands regularly with soap

In addition to avoiding crowded areas, Dr. Myers also reminds and water for at least 20 seconds or using alcohol hand gel. For additional information on how to keep you and your family safe, visit childrensmercy.org.

GOLDSTEIN TEAM From my home to yours: One of the many great pleasures of my business is helping to provide a safe haven for my family and my clients who wish to sell or purchase their next home. I suspect that never have the safety and comfort of our own homes been so appreciated. I will do all I can to ensure The Goldstein Team actively appreciate the selfless actions of those who leave their own homes to keep us safe and as a real estate professional, I've also found that providing the very

Ad Astra Financial Group

best service is essentially about putting my clients first. I write this and think of you all today, still facing the uncertainties of a world that has changed. When so much is being cancelled or postponed, time remains our most precious gift. There is comfort in knowing that spring arrived right on time. We will celebrate our holidays differently this year, but they will all arrive right on time. We are remarkably resilient in the face of tremendous challenges, and we have the time to focus on priorities which include keeping those we love safe and healthy. So today is about all of you. Our togetherness is a source of strength and power. We may not all be meeting face-to-face quite yet, but every passing day I am reminded that “also highly contagious is…kindness, patience, love and a positive attitude. Don’t wait to

Goldstein Team

catch it from others. BE THE CARRIER.”

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

When Goals are Forced to Change By Jessica Searcy Kmetty, AIFA®, CPFA, C(k)P®, PPC™, GFS®

Principal and Vice President at Searcy Financial Services, a Fee-Only, NAPFA Registered Advisory Firm

We have many discussions with clients about goals during the development of a financial plan, but we know that things will pop up along the way that can cause goals to change. In some cases, these are decisions that are made after personal reflection warrants a change. But sometimes, we are forced to change our goals. I’m sure many of you have personal goals that you’re hoping to achieve this year. We’re in a brand new decade, which means some personal goals you set may have been even BIGGER than normal as you looked toward a chance to start fresh and new, or were ready to make things happen that you’ve been pondering for some time. So, what happens when we’re forced to change our goals? It probably doesn’t feel great and it may not be easy. I’m guessing many of you are experiencing a forced change in goals (or circumstances) due to COVID-19, and many of those might be of huge significance. People who were going to launch a new business or start a new job, who have set fitness goals that they are going to now have a hard time reaching, who were making strides in counseling/therapy but can’t continue their sessions right now, who were going through infertility treatment and have been put on hold indefinitely or those who were working on a degree and may or may not be able to finish…

Let me first say, I see you and I’m with you. What about moms and dads who are now acting as teachers? Anyone else have moments where you feel like a failure? Many people have gone from working full time and having kids in daycare/school, to working from home (an adjustment for sure), having to be a full time care provider, and a full time teacher, and make three meals per day for their entire family. No one can possibly do all these things simultaneously AND well. I suspect there will be a lot of regret and stress and possibly grief associated with it for a lot of moms/dads who just can’t juggle all of it at the same time (it’s really hard for me, and my kids are all 10+ and fairly self-sufficient!). Again, I see you and I’m with you. There’s no easy way to deal with being forced to change your goals. Attitude is important, but it’s ok to feel the loss of something you were expecting. Everything doesn’t have to be ok right away, and if you need to take time to feel the loss, take the time. If you need to talk with someone to help you navigate the change, talk with someone. When you’re ready, you can consider options for modifying your goals, or changing them completely if needed. Maybe there’s still part of your goal that makes sense, and with some adjustment, you could reach it in a new (and maybe even better) way. I have faith in you, in all of us. We’ll do the best we can with the situations we’ve been given. I hope you find peace during this time and wish you well as you navigate these changes!

913.814.3800 | WWW.SEARCYFINANCIAL.COM

T h e S o n i a E f fe c t

ARTICLE ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

IF YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF SONIA WARSHAWSKI, YOU’LL NEVER FORGET HER NAME ONCE YOU HEAR HER INCREDIBLE STORY. Sonia is one of the last remaining Holocaust survivors in Kansas City and one of the only survivors speaking publicly about her wartime experience. Concentration camps, death marches, and watching her mother disappear behind gas chamber doors fill her teenage memories. She was even accidentally shot through the chest on liberation day and survived yet again. After all the horrors she’s endured, she’s chosen to not let hate win—she chooses love every single day and chooses to share her story so that history will not repeat itself. Sonia is now 94, and her big personality and petite 4’8’’ frame still command the attention of any room she’s in. Whether she’s working at her tailor shop with a customer (which was previously in Metcalf South Mall for 30 years) or giving a speech to hundreds, Sonia spreads her message of love in all that she does. To ensure her incredible story will never be forgotten, Sonia’s granddaughter, Leah Warshawski, produced “Big Sonia.” “We started making the film when Sonia was 84,” says Leah. “At that time, we didn’t know how much longer she’d be healthy, so we felt the need to begin filming ASAP. We initially wanted to make a short film about Sonia’s shop, John’s Tailoring, but as the story evolved and unfolded it was impossible for us to avoid making a feature film. We’re so proud of how it turned out and know that making a feature was the right way to go. “Our dream was that Sonia would be healthy enough when we finished the movie to be a part of the film’s release, and to see the impact that her story has on so many people. Fortunately, Sonia was able to come to our festival premiere where we won two awards, and to our theatrical premiere in New York City, and she may just outlive us all! She loves telling people about the movie now and she’s one of our best promoters! “After what she endured during the war, it’s a miracle she’s alive— the fact that she’s still going into work six days a week is unbelievable. Sonia is a model of resilience for so many people and an example of what’s possible if you choose to make the most out of the life you have. Sonia lives with her trauma and it certainly affects every minute of her life, but she has also chosen a path to educate others and speak as a witness so that hopefully something like the Holocaust never happens again. She is one-of-a-kind—I’ve never met anyone quite like her!” Leah looks forward to continuing to spread the #SoniaEffect in the Midwest and beyond.

CONTINUED >

“SONIA IS A MODEL OF RESILIENCE FOR SO MANY PEOPLE AND AN E XAMPLE OF WHAT ’S POSSIBLE IF YOU CHOOSE TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE LIFE YOU HAVE .”

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

THE SONIA EFFECT (CONTINUED)

“The #SoniaEffect started in the Midwest inherently because

the movie that comes with multiple discussions guides, including

it’s Sonia’s home but has spread across the globe thanks to the

a core-standard curriculum guide. We hope that this will allow the

global release and success of the movie. We were nominated for

#SoniaEffect to spread even more, but it’s a big task.

best documentary at the Shanghai Film Festival, and you can now

“Sonia’s message to the world is simply to love. Her message is to

see “Big Sonia” on RT TV in Russia. The film screened at 75+ film

treat others how you want to be treated, and to have compassion for

festivals, won 22 awards, and had a record-breaking theatrical run

others because you never know what someone has been through.

in Kansas City at The Glenwood Arts movie theater where Sonia is

She promotes love and kindness in a time where we could certainly

good friends with the owners. This is our 10th year working on the

use more of both. Her legacy will be that she impacted the lives of

film, and this year we’re focused on education and impact. Currently,

hundreds of thousands of people of all ages, cultures and genders.

only 12 states mandate Holocaust education in classrooms—Kansas

Through the film, her shop, and her speaking engagements, Sonia’s

and Missouri are not on that list. To make it easy for teachers and

message has already reached more than 500,000 people around the

schools to use our film, we created an educational package for

world. How many people can say that at 94 years old?!”

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Painted by Dennis Broockerd

To purchase the film, donate, and to learn more information on Sonia and the upcoming events, visit bigsonia.com/impact-campaign.

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

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New Encrypted Applications Gaining Prevelance

In divorce and family law litigation, text, email and cell phone records are often important. In many cases, parties seek this evidence in discovery when it bears on relevant issues. Text, email and cell phone records can sometimes be relevant as to child custody. For example, it might relate to inappropriate behavior and conduct that could bear on the fitness of a parent. The possibilities can be infinite, but it can show drug and alcohol abuse, inappropriate behavior and activities or time away from the family and children. In states where marital misconduct is a factor, it can also be relevant. In other words, it could provide evidence of affairs. It could also provide evidence of gambling, illicit behavior or even physical or mental abuse. Electronic evidence may also be important as to income and hidden assets. Some parties might, as an example, get their paycheck stubs emailed to them. They also might have receipts and statements emailed to them relative to unknown marital assets or bank or credit card accounts. To get this information, lawyers oftentimes issue requests for production. In

other cases, lawyers may issue subpoenas for this information to the other party or third party carriers. A lawyer may also take a deposition or hire a private investigator. An increasing trend now is for parties to use encrypted applications to conceal communications that they do not want others to see. Three common applications are Wickr, Vaporstream and Confide. These applications boast military-grade technology where they assert that the communication is protected. The features vary by application, but the messages often self-destruct after being read and do not have the name of the sender or receiver of a message on the same page. For lawyers, they have to be cognizant that individuals going through divorce or family law matters may be using these applications. For parties going through a divorce or family law matter, or where they reasonably anticipate litigation, an important question is whether they should use these applications. Ultimately, the big risk is that a court might conclude that a party is spoliating relevant evidence by using these applications. If the court concludes that a party is spoliating evidence, that party could be subject to sanctions in the family court. A family court judge might also conclude that a party using these applications

has something to hide. Otherwise, why use applications like this? This may mean that the party ends up getting an adverse result as it relates to important components of a divorce or family law matter. Ultimately, anybody going through a divorce or family law matter should speak to a lawyer about their specific situation. However, parties should also probably steer clear from these encrypted applications. While the privacy components may be appealing, and may conceal the exact nature of the communications, the appearance of having something to hide is likely not worth the risk. Nonetheless, encrypted applications are likely to become an increasing trend in divorce and family law litigation. The popularity, and ease of downloading these applications, is likely to make it an increasing trend. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

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DEAR YOUNGER ME

PAINTINGS BY DENNIS BROOCKERD

To my younger self: YOU ARE A VERY FORTUNATE YOUNG LADY! Because your family loved you and encouraged you to embrace your faith at an early age, you have the beliefs, the standards and the strength to make good choices for yourself. Turn away from bad habits and overindulgences, and stand strong for what you believe, no matter what others are doing. Now that you are a college graduate, more opportunities are available to you than were open to women of color from past generations. Be grateful for these opportunities and use them to advance in a career in Corporate America. Remember to be intentional in all you do. Don’t be afraid to take your leadership abilities and transition into an energized entrepreneur. As you do this, set a standard of ethics and behavior in your business. Then, hire other talented people, so they can excel as well. I know you are a compassionate person. Make it a priority to give aid to those children and families in need. Encourage others to follow you in this path. You are going to be given wonderous blessings. Be ready to embrace them with acceptance and appreciation. You will find that being a wife will give you a partner who is offering you unparalleled joy. Motherhood will bring love and laughter to you in the most wonderous ways. While the challenges you face in your life may seem unsolvable at the time, if you rely on your faith, your family, and your friends to move you forward, all will be fine. Jy Maze, Driven Entrepreneur, Keynote Speaker, Mentor, Philanthropist, Author

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Jy MazeÂ CONTINUED >

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DEAR YOUNGER ME (CONTINUED)

Dear younger Amani, Welcome to the grand adventure of life little one! Your life will be filled with love. Your mom will be your biggest fan and greatest supporter from day one. She will teach you that anything is possible at any age, that you can be whatever you want whenever you want, and even in the worst of times everything is fixable—or at the very least— bearable as you are stronger than you think you are. She will instill in you a great love for the arts, filling your weekends with trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, gallery openings, music festivals and Friday night hikes through the woods collecting treasures for Saturday night art projects that will serve as inspiration for your adult career in the arts. Be aware that this passion for the arts and your ability to make art will never change regardless of the careers you choose in fine art, the corporate art or the academic art worlds. Throughout the winding road of your career, you will land where you are meant to be—have faith that the path you are on is the right path. Though there will be challenges throughout your life, try to think of those challenges as plot twists in your life story rather than failures. You will learn more from these “plot twists” than you will from your successes, so recognize and appreciate the lessons they hold. Strive for happiness and not perfection in life. As much as you will try to chase perfection in all that you attempt in your life, it will not satisfy you the way happiness will. I know what you are thinking, Amani, and no, perfection is not happiness. They are, in fact, two very different things. Trust me on this one. You can be kind to others without falling into the trap of being a people pleaser. Know what your own personal boundaries are and be true to them without compromising your own happiness. Yep! There is that word again, “happiness.” Learn it and live it and be sure that you are a source of happiness for others. Give the love and support that has fostered your happiness back to your friends and family through actions as words can sometimes fall short. Learn to be a warrior and not a worrier because it’s never as bad as you think it is. Remember your mother’s words, “you are stronger than you think you are.” Lastly, romance, yes, there will be a great love in your life; however, be patient. He will reveal himself at the right time, so rather than searching for him tirelessly, relax, have faith and find strength in your own independence for a bit. I love you, Amani. -Amani Skalacki, Stylist

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Amani Skalacki CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty 33

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ARTIST’S PALETTE

MEET THE ARTIST

LOCAL ARTIST, AUDREY BENSKIN, CREATES HER MASTERPIECES OF BRIGHT, BOLD COLORS ON CANVASES FROM CREATIVE EXPRESSION AND MEMORIES FROM HER TRAVELS ACROSS THE GLOBE. With a degree and background in design, she has a talent for creating works of art in a variety of media, many of which are commissioned pieces. She and her husband raised their family in the Shawnee area before moving to the Leawood area 27 years ago. For the last three years, her artwork has been on HGTV Bargain Mansions with local designer, Tamara Day, and she is also featured with designer Jenny Manka of Manka Interiors. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW YOU GOT STARTED AS AN ARTIST. I always felt that as soon as I was able to hold a crayon at a young age, I immediately enjoyed creating art. That love has continued. Art brings a balance to my life and helps me express my emotions. 36

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

AUDREY BENSKIN

CONTINUED >

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ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? I am a contemporary abstract artist. My paintings are associated with a bold color field. I tend to paint on larger canvasses with colors giving a creative energy in which the painting can dance in every room and give movement. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ARTISTS? WHO DO YOU GAIN ARTISTIC INSPIRATION FROM? Honestly, I love all artists. Some of my favorites are Henri Matisse, Helen Frankenthaler and Richard Diebenkorn. I could go on and on with famous artists. I do have pieces of artwork on display in my own home from local artists Babe Atha, Lou Marack and David Gross. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT MATTER TO PAINT? I enjoy painting mostly figurative and balanced forms outside in nature, rock formations, landscapes, seascapes, animals and everything else. HOW HAS ART ENRICHED YOUR LIFE? Art nurtures my creative spirit and makes for a more beautiful place in my life. To learn more about Audrey Benskin or to view more of her work, visit AudreyBenskin.art.

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LOCALLY OWNED ARTICLE ALAN GOFORTH

AWARD-WINNING GOLDSTEIN TEAM BUILDS ON SUCCESS TO GUIDE HOME BUYERS AND SELLERS THROUGH CHALLENGING TIMES

STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS IN KANSAS AND

“First and foremost, clear and constant com-

MISSOURI ARE HAVING A PROFOUND

munication, coupled with the highest level of

IMPACT ON HOW PEOPLE LIVE, WORK

attention, culminating in a sale.

AND SOCIALIZE. Experienced real estate

“We don’t just meet expectations. We

agents have become more important than

continually exceed them and have fun

ever in helping them navigate this new Realty.

along the way. Our clients put their faith

“Our world has changed, and our homes

in us. Our buyers know that we will find

are our sanctuaries,” says Suzy Goldstein

the right home, and our sellers trust in our

of the award-winning Goldstein Team of

marketing commitment and extensive net-

Better Homes and Gardens Kansas City in

working to reach the right audience. We do

Leawood. “Although we are working differ-

it all—staging, jaw-dropping professional

ently, we continue to keep closely connected

photography, video, floorplans online—no

while distancing. There is no clear roadmap

stone is left unturned to ensure that our

for the days, weeks and months ahead, but

client wins the beauty contest.”

we will move forward as we always do—with a generous spirit and compassion for others.” The

Goldstein

Team—which

No wonder so many clients refer their friends and neighbors.

includes

“Friends recommend us to friends and

Suzy’s son, Erich, as well as Margaret Stewart,

business associates pass along their experi-

Lora Jones, Leslie Courtney and Joe Gill—is a

ences with us, but one of our greatest plea-

powerhouse in the local market. It was hon-

sures is when the children of former clients

ored as the No. 2-producing team for Better

come to us for help and guidance,” she says.

Homes and Gardens Kansas City last year. Goldstein’s business savvy and people skills have served her well since she

Simply put, The Goldstein Team makes every sale and move as easy and seamless as possible.

entered the real estate profession in the

“We understand that selling a home can be

early 1980s. She started at Kroh Brothers

a stressful and disruptive time, and that is not

Realty (later J.D. Reece) and quickly sold

how we operate,” Goldstein says. “We strive

her first home for $105,000 (the contract

to move through the process together with

still hangs on her wall). In 1987, she became

each client so that the end result is a happy,

a founding member of the Hallbrook Realty

rewarding, exciting and memorable one.”

Marketing Team. She built on that experience by starting her own team in 2000.

That is a winning formula even in the best of times but especially in today’s chal-

Members of The Goldstein Team under-

lenging environment. “Stay well, stay safe,

stand a foundational principle of the indus-

stay home,” she says, “and remember that

try: Buyers and sellers prefer to work with

we are better together.”

someone they like and trust. “Everyone promises ‘great customer service,’ but what does that mean?” Goldstein asks. 42

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

For more information, please visit goldsteinteam.com.

“STAY WELL, STAY SAFE, STAY HOME, AND REMEMBER THAT WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER.”

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

BACKSTAGE

Pro v i d i n g Jaz z ALL AROUND TOWN

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON

LOCAL MUSICIAN BRINGS HER PERSONALITY TO KANSAS CITY’S FAVORITE MUSICAL GENRE

KANSAS CITY IS KNOWN FOR ITS JAZZ MUSIC, AND IF YOU HAVE ENJOYED LISTENING TO LIVE MUSIC AT A HOTEL, CLUB OR RESTAURANT AROUND TOWN, THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE YOU HEARD CANDACE EVANS. Having performed at many of Kansas City’s iconic locations, Evans has been a fixture in the local music scene for more than two decades. “I love to perform because it inspires me to see how a lyric or a melody can touch people,” Evans says. “The power of music is an amazing thing, and the therapeutic aspect is undeniable.” Evans grew up in the Kansas City area listening to the songs of Nat “King” Cole, Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday and Barbra Streisand. She studied classical piano and voice from the age of 8 all the way through college, and in college she also studied at the Backstage Workshop with Lilian Armijo. While her background was in classical music, she expanded her range into jazz music as she looked to pursue professional opportunities. As such, she studied with Carol Comer, a respected local jazz musician and educator, for further training. Evans loves the idea of being able to improvise with jazz and put her own stamp and personality on a piece of music.

It’s been a few years since she recorded her albums, Interpretations and

The give and take that occurs with the band members is

So Nice, but she plans to return to the studio again soon to record another

also something she enjoys.

project. Her last album included trio, quartet and quintet arrangements, but

“To be able to express a song in a unique way each time I play it breathes life into the performance,” Evans says. “It

this time she would like to concentrate on more solo and duo work. She’s also considering a solo piano album.

keeps me on my toes, especially when I’m working with

One musician that continues to inspire Evans today is jazz pianist and

other musicians and we’re playing off of each other. There

vocalists Diana Krall. She says the way she weaves her piano with her

are some incredible musicians in Kansas City, and I’m in

vocals is truly special.

awe of their ability to accompany me.” She frequently performs at the InterContinental Hotel and

As for advice Evans gives to aspiring musicians, she says perseverance is essential.

Ophelia’s in Independence and has performed at the Ritz-

“The competition—especially in a city like this with so much talent—is

Carlton Hotel, the Raphael Hotel, Union Station and more.

unbelievable,” Evans says. “My biggest piece of advice is to persevere and

She’s also played at various outdoor music series around

not give up. In this business you are going to have highs and lows.”

town, including the ones in Overland Park and the Plaza.

Whether she’s performing at a restaurant, outdoor concert or retirement

Additionally, she has experience playing at other venues

community, Evans says she enjoys seeing people of all ages enjoying music and

throughout the Midwest, including spending several years

having a good time. More intimate settings such as clubs and small restaurants

at the Lodge of Four Seasons at the Lake of the Ozarks.

are especially fun for her as she can communicate personally with her audience. CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

DIY

PACK YOUR SMALL SPACES WITH A BIG PUNCH BY STARTING YOUR OWN CONTAINER GARDEN

IT MAY BE THAT YOU DON’T HAVE MUCH SPACE TO WORK WITH; MAYBE YOU ARE ALWAYS ON-THE-MOVE; OR, MAYBE YOU JUST SIMPLY COLOR TO YOUR SPACE. It doesn’t matter what your reason may be. Container gardening—the practice of growing plants exclusively in containers rather than in the ground—is a great way to pack some punch into a small (or portable!) space. With container gardening, there are almost endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking to grow decorative plants or edible ones, there’s likely an option for you— and it doesn’t have to be limited to simply growing herbs

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

WANT SOME GREENERY TO ADD A LITTLE BIT OF

on your windowsill. There are several factors to keep in mind when you first start your container garden, the first of which being to decide whether you’re going to keep it indoors or out. Different plants grow best in different environments, so be sure to choose species that will thrive where you’ve decided to put them—making sure they are receiving the proper amount of sunlight and moisture.

DETAILS HEADER Details line 1 information Details line 2 information Details line 3 information

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Here are a few other things to be aware of when you get started: CONTAINER SIZES: Large containers may be easier to grow plants in than small since

they have more space for large root systems and larger amounts of soil retain more moisture. + CONTAINER DRAINAGE: Your container must have a drainage system—even if it’s just a few holes you drill in it yourself. For plants that need to be watered more frequently, consider self-watering containers. + CONTAINER MATERIALS: The fun thing about container gardens is that you don’t have to limit yourself. Get creative with the containers you use (while keeping the above information in mind)! We love repurposing vintage items into unique containers.

the more the greener

garden tips

Why stick with one kind of garden? Once you’re a container garden pro, there are tons of different theme gardens you can create all around your home. CLEAN-AIR GARDEN Snake Plant + Spider Plant + Dragon Plant + English Ivy FRAGRANCE GARDEN Lavender + Lemongrass + Mint LEMON GARDEN Lemon Verbena + Lemon Balm + Lemongrass + Lemon Geranium

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

JOHNSON COUNTY

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

INDIAN HILLS

$2,200,000

$2,098,500

95%

5.1

THE FARM AT GARNET HILL

$2,200,000

$2,000,000

90%

5.2

INDIAN HILLS

$1,739,900

$1,655,000

95%

4.2

LEAWOOD

$1,849,900

$1,590,000

85%

101

5.2

LIONSGATE-THE LINKS

$1,689,000

$1,525,000

90%

118

5.2

HALLBROOK

$1,599,000

$1,499,000

93%

7.2

REINHARDT ESTATES

$1,399,950

100%

5.1

HALLBROOK

$1,389,500

100%

253

5.1

TOWN & COUNTRY

$1,450,000

$1,350,000

93%

5.3

ESTATES OF PRAIRIE GLEN

$1,425,000

$1,315,000

92%

111

4.1

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers. 2020 STATISTICS from 3/1/2020 TO 3/31/2020. * DOM=Days on Market

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

PARTING THOUGHTS

H E R E'S THE IN

₁

MOTHERS OUR

LIVES

THIS IS A SPECIAL MOTHER’S DAY FOR DR. JESSICA NICHOLS, FROM FAIRWAY EYE CENTER, WHO HAD HER FIRST BABY IN FEBRUARY. “As a first-time mom, I understand having questions about your child’s health and development,” says Dr. Nichols who volunteers for InfantSEE, providing free routine eye exams for children from 6 months to one year. “We can alleviate one less worry by being your child’s eye care provider.”

₂

We want to take this opportunity to honor our bookkeeper, sales clerk and marketing executive who just happens to be our daughter, Tamara. Of all the titles she has, mother of four of our grandchildren is the best one of all. We've been blessed with her bringing each of the grandbabies to work with her, and what could be better than having your daughter involved

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I always gave my mother jewelry for Mother's Day, but the year I opened my own store it seemed like cheating. So I bought her the new microwave that she needed instead. When she opened her gift, she said 'Oh, you shouldn't have' and I knew that I shouldn't have all right. The next year, I got another microwave box, filled it with tissue and a diamond bracelet in the center. Even after all these years, Mom likes to hold up her wrist and say, 'I love my microwave'. — Renee Huff, Jeweled Legacy

Jewe

₄ led L egac

My husband and I don’t buy cards, we make them. It’s been “our thing” since high school, and we have a shoebox full! When I became a mother, he traced our twins’ tiny little hands on my first, homemade Mother’s Day card. Savannah and Sawyer are 9 years old now, and not only do they make their own cards for me on Mother’s Day, last year they started leaving notes for me on their own in my lunchbox. I just love seeing our tradition passed on to them. Getting those little unprompted love notes make every day feel like

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Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2020

Mother’s Day! — Kayla Carlton, Radon Pros

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