Johnson County Lifestyle December 2013

Johnson County december 2013

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Showing Your Grandchildren

the World

The Bridge Studio Older Driver Safety Dinner Club Friendships Angels of Children’s Mercy

The Business of Giving Back There’s one common conviction that unites every action we take: we believe that what we do is bigger than just us. Our business might be cars but our mission is never just about automobiles; instead, it’s about making the world a better place for one person at a time.

That desire is especially strong during the holidays. We believe that every child, regardless of circumstance, deserves to unwrap a little magic during the holiday season. We also know that countless Kansas City area children might not find anything under a tree come December 25.

With the help of Toys for Tots, we’re trying to change that.

Toys for Tots understands that sometimes a gift is more than just a gift; that a new toy, wrapped in bright paper, is a message of hope and encouragement to less fortunate youngsters. Toys for Tots believes that those gifts help children grow into more responsible, productive and patriotic citizens.

Louis Faller General Manager

We agree, which is why we partner with Toys for Tots each year. Making space for as many toys as possible on our showroom floor is one small way we can make a difference in the life of not just one child, but in the lives of many children.

is Proud to Partner with www.toysfortots.org

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Editor's Letter

Thank you!

december 2013

I

t’s been another successful, wonderful year here at the desk of this busy editor. As the year comes to a close I feel the need to take a moment to thank those of you who stop on this page for a minute or two each month. Sometimes I ramble on a bit about my family, my personal goals and my dreams for the future.

Today I simply wish to say, “Thank you!”

Each month I have the privilege of bringing together story ideas that come to me from all over town. I use those ideas to plan a dozen issues a year of this community-focused publication you’ve come to enjoy. My team of freelance writers and I work around 12 editorial themes to guide our content placement, and I fill in the holes with miscellaneous but interesting and sometimes inspiring stories as space allows. We're particularly proud of our senior-themed issue this month.

publisher Steven Schowengerdt | Steven@LifestylePubs.com editor Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com chief financial officer | DeLand Shore

director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Carrie Julian regional sales director Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch, mstauch@lifestylepubs.com Annie Jennings, ajennings@lifestylepubs.com Troy Coup, tcoup@lifestylepubs.com advertising director | Mike Baugher

It is a real honor to be in the driver’s seat for this publication. I feel like I get a front row view of all of the great things going on in our community. Through the articles we put together, it’s as if I get to meet our most interesting neighbors. I receive daily emails from our local Chambers of Commerce and school districts announcing growth, new stores and restaurants and impressive student accomplishments. I know all about the great theater events and speakers who are coming to town. There aren’t enough hours in the day to attend all of the goings on that peak my interest. In eight months, when my oldest heads off to college and my nest is half empty, I suspect I’ll fill the hole in my heart by adding a few more theater events, lecture series or Chamber-sponsored events to my weekly calendar.

From the staff at Lifestyle Publications, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year!

production coordinator | Christina Sandberg graphic designers | Sara Minor, Cyndi Vreeland executive assistant | Lori Cunningham contributing writers Lisa Allen, Katherine Bontrager, Mary Bush, Ann Butenas, Susan Cohen, Michael Hagen, Dan Hammond, Donna Karlan, Kendra Mathewson, Elizabeth Rosenberger, Denise Snodell, Tom Strongman, Tracy Sullivan contributing photographers 4 Ft Photoz, Bob Compton, Susan Motley, Tom Strongman, Jim Thomas senior web developer | Lynn Owens it director | Randy Aufderheide

Enjoy the season neighbors, and I’ll see you around town.

Published monthly, subscriptions are also available for $22 for 1 year, $39 for 2 years by visiting JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

on the cover The canals of Venice were a high-

light of a trip enjoyed by Tom & Susan Strongman and their 13-year-old granddaughter this past summer. Read more on page 54. Photography

by Tom Strongman

| JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com |

join us

talk to us

Proverbs 3:5-6 Contact us at: 10500 Barkley, Suite 228 Overland Park, KS. 66212 913.599.4300 | JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com Johnson County Lifestyle™ Magazine is published monthly by Kingdom Lifestyle Publications. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the most affluent suburbs in Johnson County. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Kingdom Holding’s 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.

SuRvIvE

A HE ART AT TACk?

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. But when it comes to your heart, it’s worth much, much more.

That’s why our Board-certified cardiologists work just as diligently to prevent heart problems as treat them.

And today’s best way to prevent a heart problem is to find out if you’re at risk. Thanks to Shawnee Mission

For answers to your health questions or to find a doctor, call ASK-A-NURSE 24/7 at 913-676-7777.

Medical Center, it’s as simple as going online and taking our seven-minute HEARTaware risk assessment.

If you experience any heart attack warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath or extreme fatigue, call 911. To find out if you’re at risk for heart disease, take the HEARTaware risk assessment at ShawneeMission.org/HEARTaware.

Rajya Malay, MD, FACC

December 2013

Departments

54

14

Good Times

18

Around Town

26

Field Trip

30 Parent's Corner 32

Financial Fitness

34

Home Matters

36

Your Neighbors

40 Giving Back 42 Worship Time 43

Star Students

46 Driver’s Notebook 48 What's Cooking?

60 Treasured Collection 62

Now Open

64 Page Turners

50 Putting the Brakes on Unsafe Older Drivers

66 Tech Today

68 Artist’s Palette

Leawood family has turned a personal tragedy into a mission.

70 Hot Spot

54 Making Memories for a Lifetime

Area couple shares tradition of showing their grandchildren the world.

58 Bridge to the Future

Kansas City’s premier studio offers tournaments, events and lessons.

26

58

72

Locally Owned

75

Sold Properties

76

Lifestyle Calendar

82

Parting Thoughts

68

Lifestyle Publications Johnson County, KS | Leawood, KS | Lee’s Summit, MO | Northland, MO | Springfield, MO | Tulsa, OK Mt. Pleasant, SC | Newport Beach, CA Boulder, CO | Boulder County, CO | BuckHaven, GA | Perimeter North, GA | Paradise Valley, AZ | North Scottsdale, AZ | Chandler, AZ

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I am ...

... a Resurrection member. ... a husband and a father. ... an IRONMAN competitor. ... a physician. ... a Jayhawk. ... a blood donor. ... a school volunteer. ... compassionate. ... involved. ... healthy. ... caring.

Joel juggles a busy schedule but that doesn’t get in the way of donating his life-saving blood at the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection blood drives.

He is a loyal and dedicated blood donor who takes just 60 minutes from his schedule every 56 days to help save a life.

Who are you?

Church of the Resurrection BLOOD DRIVE Monday and Tuesday December 2 & 3 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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Our Contributors

Katherine Bontrager

With the exception of a few brief sojourns, Leawood has been the place I’ve called home for some 20 years. Its people and places are among the finest I’ve encountered in all my travels. After graduating with a bachelor’s from the University of Missouri and a Master’s of Journalism from Northwestern University, I’ve worked on newspapers, magazines, books, websites, greeting cards and more. I now freelance fulltime while trying to balance the needs of a golf-obsessed husband, our kindergarten-aged daughter, infant twin boys, and a menagerie of animals. Some days are more successful than others.

Denise Snodell

Here’s something ironic: I grew up in the New York metro area-all of my family is still there--yet I can get to a Dean & DeLuca or see an original Van Gogh quicker than they can! I discovered the Midwest when I earned a journalism degree from the University of Missouri. I worked around the country as a copywriter and television producer, but wound up back in this sweet spot to raise two great sons with my husband, a Leawood native. I’m still astounded I can walk from my house and stumble upon gourmet restaurants, or go another way and come face-to-face with a cow.

Lisa Allen

It took some time for me to claim Olathe as home.

I’m a western Kansas native, moved to Chicago after high school graduation, and earned an undergraduate degree from Loyola University. I loved my big city life, but can’t imagine a better place to raise kids.

I am a proud mom of three and thankful for the opportunity to work from home as a freelance writer, marketing strategist and ghost author. In my spare time I blog about being a single mom at BacktoAllen.com, sweat out stress at hot yoga and prefer red over white.

12 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Why wait

Elizabeth Rosenberger

My grandmother used to say “If you find something you love to do, then you’ve found a sweet thing.” For me, writing is one of those ‘things.’ Writing about Lee’s Summit and the community where I live and have grown up is icing on the cookie. My husband and I have raised our two children, two dogs, a three-legged cat and a short-lived hamster here.

We now have the joy of watching our grandchildren grow and thrive in this wonderful city. Between writing, you can catch me at big and little league games and enjoying Longview Lake.

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for emergency care?

In an emergency, we know you want to be cared for by experts.

Menorah Medical Center and Overland Park Regional Medical Center have full-service emergency rooms staffed by providers with the credentials you expect. Overland Park Regional Medical Center is Johnson County’s only nationally certified Level II Trauma Center, and both Menorah and Overland Park Regional offer accredited chest pain centers and certified stroke centers. We are ready to provide immediate treatment for serious conditions such as stroke and heart attack as well as non-life-threatening lacerations, broken bones, illnesses or injuries.

When fast response and quality care matter most, trust Menorah Medical Center and Overland Park Regional Medical Center.

Kendra Mathewson

I have an adventurous, artistic spirit. People are like worlds we can never possibly discover everything about, but it’s fun to explore who they are and then, like a travel journalist, attempt with words to describe a glimpse of a piece of that world.

To me, numbers are a foreign country but words are home.

I enjoy the journey of finding the right words amidst the chaos of being a mom of two kids, attempting to run a household and enjoying a ski on Lake Lotawana when I can.

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For health information and advice from registered nurses who are available 24/7, call (913) 541-7400.

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 13

Good Times

Chocolate, Cheese & Ale Supporters of great ales gathered at the 75th Street Alley event space in late October to support First Downs for Downs.

Great cheese, chocolate and ales from around the world were paired to perfection.

International Walk to School Day

The neighborhood surrounding Holy Spirit School received more than the usual foot traffic of the red and gray plaid and tucked-in shirt and belted variety when 70 Holy Spirit students joined more than 3,000 schools across the U.S. for International Walk to School Day to encourage health for people and the planet.

14 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Driven for a Cure Gala Overland Park Convention Center provided a fun, high-energy evening filled with cocktails, fabulous auction items, fine dining and entertainment to raise funds for the American Diabetes Association mission to put a stop to this devastating disease.

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Good Times

One Inspired Evening Charity Gala Event Supporters of Kids with Courage Foundation enjoyed an inspirational evening at the beautiful Longview Mansion with cocktails, silent auction, dinner, and music to dance the night away.

LeAnn Fryer, Daphna Bottcher, Lauren & Kathy Farrell

Cherie Davis and Daphna Bottcher

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I am ...

... a future Resurrection member. ... a Mickey Mouse fan. ... a future rock star. ... a little brother. ... a dreamer. ... a blood recipient. ... fearless. ... the man. ... ornery. ... happy. ... fun.

Jack is an energetic child who one day hopes to join the band at United Methodist Church of the Resurrection. In the meantime, he is battling Acute Myloid Leukemia for the second time. Jack has needed more than 100 units of blood to help fight his battle.

He is thankful for blood donors who took just 60 minutes out of their day to help save his life.

Who are you?

Church of the Resurrection BLOOD DRIVE Monday and Tuesday December 2 & 3 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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Around Town

Hotel Sorella Now Open on the Plaza Kansas Citians and out-of-town visitors can now experience an oasis for the refined at heart, as the newest jewel of the city opened its doors. Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza made its Kansas City debut, opening to the public in early November.

Tucked amid the ornate fountains and elegant courtyards of the premier shopping district, Hotel Sorella is sure to be something special for visitors.

Guests can expect to find a breathtaking view from the rooftop pool, which features fire pits, cabanas and a luxe bar. The hotel features two restaurants – Francesca’s is an airy and elegant space offering a daily European breakfast. Rosso offers upscale Italian dining, accompanied by wonderful views of the city.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary European breakfast, a complete fitness center and a spa suite. Hotel Sorella has 132 guest rooms, nine spacious suites and a presidential suite. It also has meeting and event space, meeting rooms with state-of-the-art technology – for corporate meetings, social gatherings and weddings.

Hotel Sorella is located at 901 W. 48th Place.

For more information visit HotelSorellaCountryClubPlaza.com.

Overland Park Among Top Cities in U.S. Livability.com recently released its Top 100 Best Places to Live 2014, and Overland Park is ranked 17.

“Overland Park is a hotbed of growth for families and businesses. Sporting events and parks helped the city rank on Livability.com’s 18 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Top 10 Soccer Cities list, and the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is a must-see,” Livability says.

Things to see and do include Overland Park’s Fall Festival, the Arboretum, the New Theatre Restaurant and more.

Silver Alert Preparedness This past spring, a Silver Alert was issued for a Metro area woman. She was eventually found along I-29 in Iowa, safely, in her car.

Clearly she got turned around and just kept driving. If your aging relative were to get lost while driving around town, are you prepared to give local police their vital information? Do you know their approximate height and weight?

Do you know the year, make and model of their car? And do you know their license plate number? All of this information would be vitally important. Consider writing it down and keeping it in a safe place. If your relative owns a Smartphone, consider downloading a family locator app so that you can ‘track’ your family member in case of an emergency.

Family Conservancy President/CEO retires Betsy R. Vander Velde announces retirement after nearly 35 years with The Family Conservancy. In 1994, Betsy took the helm as President and CEO. Under her esteemed leadership, The Family Conservancy has grown from a budget of $4.9 million to $12.4 million

and serves more than 48,000 children and families annually — in early education, mental health and anti-poverty programs to support the most vulnerable Kansas Citians.

Her vast knowledge and expertise in children’s welfare issues, executive leadership and fundraising have earned her many awards and accolades. Most recently, Betsy has been selected as one of the Women Who’ve Changed the Heart of the City honorees from City Union Mission, to be awarded in April 2014.

The Family Conservancy is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children and families achieve a lifetime of success. For more information visit TheFamilyConservancy.org.

Big Bob’s Outlet Anniversary Roll out the red carpet (or blue or green or beige!), as Big Bob’s Outlet has recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, serving the greater Kansas City area from three locations – Overland Park, St. Joseph and Independence.

For three decades, Big Bob’s has provided the best in value to its customers by providing the most experienced, knowledgeable and friendly sales people who not only understand what it means to offer value in flooring, mattresses and furniture, but who also strive to deliver the best customer experience possible, day in and day out. Selection, service and value are the cornerstones of Big Bob’s Outlet.

“It is because of our passion for what we do and offer that has helped us to grow, evolve and change,” notes Adam Elyachar, co-owner of the Kansas City operations. Visit BigBobs Outlet.com for more information.

Barley‘s Brewhaus Introduces Weekend Brunch Menu It‘s not just about lunch, dinner and craft beers anymore at four KC Hopps restaurants.

All three area Barley‘s Brewhaus restaurants and the 75th Street Brewery are introducing a creative ala carte brunch menu available Saturday and Sunday.

The brunch menu follows the innovative, made-from-scratch lunch and dinner menus.

The brunch menu, developed KC Hopps Executive Chef Ryan Sneed and Chef Vlad Vergara, includes several creative twists such as crab cake benedict, Barley‘s original creme brûlée french toast, thick cut bacon with grits and sweet griddle cakes.

The ala carte brunch will be served 11 a.m. to

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 19

Around Town 2 p.m. Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays at all four restaurants. Barley‘s has locations in Shawnee, Overland Park and new Barley‘s at 135th and Nall Ave., in Leawood. 75th Street Brewery, the original KC Hopps bar and restaurant is located in the Waldo area at 520 W. 75th St.

Rental Equipment Now Delivered to You A local Kansas City start-up firm, Deliver-Rents, began this past spring delivering an array of frequently rented home, lawn and garden maintenance equipment direct to your residence. After full day rentals, Deliver-Rents returns to pick up the machinery. No more strained backs, mud in your vehicle, borrowing a friend’s truck, or wasting precious personal time on weekend projects.

Gabe Ismert started his firm offering verti-cutters, overseeders, power washers, aerators, paint sprayers, carpet cleaners, post-hole augers and more. Customers simply visit the website, choose the equipment and a date, and the job is ready to begin. Deliver-Rents handles the rest. The initial business zone is Johnson County, Brookside and Waldo. Call 816.820.5454 or visit Deliver-Rents. com for details.

Area Teachers Honored in New Book Three Shawnee Mission teachers are featured in a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind book, American Teacher: Heroes in the Classroom by Katrina Fried. In this large format coffee table book, Fried profiles 50 outstanding K-12 educators from across the United States in portraits and first person narratives, accompanied by notes from students.

Area teachers featured in the book include Josh Anderson, a 9th-12th grade English, debate, forensics and speech teacher at Olathe Northwest High School; Keil Hileman, a 6th-8th & 11th-12 grades, museum connections & honors archaeology and artifacts teacher at Monticello Trails Middle School; and Ron Poplau, an 11th– 12th grade community service teacher at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School.

Two Local Catholic Schools Benefit From Coming Together Notre Dame de Sion School, an independent Catholic school in Kansas City, has partnered with Our Lady of Guadalupe for the 2013-14 school 20 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

year. Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of three schools in the Kansas City/St. Joseph Diocese selected as a Bright Futures Fund School, an organization that provides need-based assistance for low-income children in Kansas City’s urban core through subsidized student tuition and basic budgetary items such as utilities and teacher salaries.

Recently, Sion presented OLG with a check for over $6,000 raised entirely by Sion students and their families. Fifth and 6th grade students from OLG accompanied by Principal Joe Schramp and Director of the Bright Futures Fund, Jeremy Lillig, joined the Sion high school’s student council and administration for a pizza party to celebrate the donation.

“The partnership has been truly amazing,” says Our Lady of Guadalupe Principal Joe Schramp. “I became overwhelmed with joy when Head of School Chris Broderick shared with me how much money had been collected.

Over ninety-five percent of OLG students eat free or reduced lunch. Our school is in desperate need of new computers. This money will help us achieve our goal of purchasing new computers for our students to use. OLG is so grateful and appreciative to have Sion as a partner school.”

A Spectacular Christmas for Toys for Tots The performers for A Spectacular Christmas Holiday Show, December 5-22 at Crown Center’s Off Center Theatre, have teamed up to support Toys for Tots. Two area Marines will attend most of the holiday productions of the Musical Theatre Heritage (MTH) shows, and anyone who brings a new, unwrapped toy will be given one free ticket to the show. Toys must have a $10 minimum value. One toy for every two people. Left and right seats only. Additionally, the team at MTH is donating 100 tickets to Toys for Tots to be shared with local families, Marines and volunteers. For details about the show, visit MusicalTheaterHeritage.com.

Early detection of breast cancer saves

thousands of lives each year.

A R E YOU AT R I S K?

You may be at high-risk for developing breast cancer if you have: • Tested positive for a gene mutation that increases risk of breast cancer development • Atypical cells detected during a breast biopsy • Any family member (male or female) with breast cancer diagnosed before age 50 • Multiple family members with breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer at any age • Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and/or pancreatic cancer • Prior radiation for childhood cancer If you think you may be at high-risk for breast cancer and/or have received a suspicious mammogram result and need a consultation to discuss options, please contact our Breast Cancer Prevention Program:

(913) 236-8003 | MidwestBreast.com Stephanie Graff, MD Medical Oncologist, Breast Oncologist Dr. Graff specializes in breast cancer and provides patients outstanding clinical care at Menorah Medical Center and Research Medical Center.

Red Kettle Campaign Returns Every holiday season, people across the country, including here in Kansas City, look forward to the return of a cherished Christmas tradition. For more than 100 years, The Salvation Army red kettles have represented the love and hope of the holidays. They are also a reminder The Salvation Army helps people

5721 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS 66209

The breast cancer prevention program is also offered at Centerpoint Medical Center, Overland Park Regional Medical Center, and Research Medical Center.

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 21

Around Town in crisis, not only this time of year, but all year long. Over the last year, The Salvation Army in Kansas City provided more than 367,000 meals, 129,000 nights of lodging and emergency assistance to more than 75,000 people in need. Whether you give at its kettles or at SalArmyMoKan.org, your contribution will help change lives in the local community.

Kauffman Center Announces Launch of EncoreTix The Kauffman Center announced the launch of EncoreTix, a new program designed to make the performing arts more accessible for younger adults.

EncoreTix provides significant discounts up to 50 percent off of regular prices, special presales, and free ticket giveaways to a variety of events at Kauffman Center each month. Participants can choose from a wide range of entertainers and performances from around the world, including classical, pop and jazz music, ballet and contemporary dance, operas, theatrical productions, and more. Open to anyone age 21–39, EncoreTix is a collaboration between Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, the Kansas City Ballet, Kansas City Symphony, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and the Harriman-Jewell Series.

Younger adults become Encore members by signing up online to join a monthly email list. Members pay for the performances and special events that most interest them. There are no annual fees for the program. For more information and to sign-up, visit Kauffman Center.org/Encore.

Somerset Wine Trail Vineyards Release New Wine The four wineries of the Somerset Wine Trail have released for the first time ever four different Nouveau style wines. This is the first celebration of its kind in the Kansas City area and marks the reemergence of the Somerset winemaking region located just south of the Kansas City Metro in Miami County.

Somerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery, Nighthawk Vineyard & Winery, Middle Creek Winery, and White Wind Farms will all celebrate the 2013 harvest each releasing a Nouveau style wine made from the Chambourcin grape.

Each wine was made with clusters that were destemmed but not crushed, had a short fermentation on the skins and no barrel aging, resulting in fresh, fruity, ready to drink wine without extracting bitter tannins.

Wine lovers will be able to visit all four wineries to sample and purchase each winery’s interpretation of Chambourcin Nouveau. Visitors can tour the wineries on the Miami County Trolley for $18.00 per person for the day. More info is available at MiamiCountyTrolley.com or call 913.306.3388 to make a reservation. Somerset Ridge.com, MiddleCreekWinery.com, Night HawkWines.com and WhiteWindFarms.com.

the top wedding photographers in the United States. Fewer than 50 photographers across the entire country received this honor. Only 253 vendors were honored nationwide; 13 in Missouri – only two of which are photographers.

“We could not have done it without all of our wonderful clients,” says Mike Freeland, owner.

“We truly appreciate each of them. We work so hard to make our brides happy from helping with their itineraries to getting them their final images in a timely manner. We are so humbled and excited that we have been named as one of the top wedding vendors in the United States.”

Visit FreelandPhotography.com for more information or find them on Facebook.

Freeland Photography Named One of Top Wedding Vendors in U.S. A well-known Kansas City business has achieved national acclaim. Freeland Photography was recently inducted into The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame, ranking them among

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Stonewater Cove Resort & Spa This oasis in the Ozarks tops our list of favorite getaways for spring and summer vacation plans

Article Kendra Mathewson Photography Provided by Stonewater Cove

W

ouldn’t it be nice to get away from it all anytime you want, without having to travel half a world away?

I used to live on a fairly remote island in the Caribbean – one that took three planes, a 30-minute ferry ride and Jeep taxi bouncing along a remote road to reach. People traveled there from all over the world to experience this high-end resort and, no question, it was a place one could escape the noise, find peace, and a change of pace.

It was well worth the long, hard trip.

Yet, what if I told you about another such place more easily within reach? One that feels as if it were custom built just for you, designed to give you or your family exactly what you want in a vacation?

So it is with Stonewater Cove Resort and Spa. A few major interstates, followed by state highways and 12 miles of winding country road and you’re there – nestled in along Table Rock Lake in the Ozarks, surrounded by the Mark Twain National Forest.

Before we go any further, set aside every stereotype evoked when you hear the word, “Ozarks.” Stonewater Cove redefines the Ozark experience. It’s the best of everything, artfully created in a retreat that honors nature, Missouri and Midwest life, and celebrates it all.

26 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

It is pure wilderness, pure luxury, and absolute perfection.

And it’s well worth the short drive.

A Resort of Contrasts.

From the moment you pass through the hand-hewn wooden fence, it’s clear someone has prepared this place just for you.

This is not a commercial property owned by a big company that slapped up a building and called it “vacation destination.” In contrast, the Bond family, out of everything they love and enjoy, spent 10 years carefully creating and crafting this beautiful retreat in the wilderness of the Ozark Mountains on the peaceful Table Rock Lake. Jim and his wife, Ruth, were optometrists and business owners from Iowa who brought their kids up skiing, hiking and adventuring. Like artists, they saw the beauty of this place and its potential, and their transformation helps visitors appreciate it in a new way. Their children are all involved in the business, and son, James, helped build much of it and now runs it as General Manager.

Stonewater Cove is a welcome contrast to this hustle-bustle world in which we live: surrounded by more than 400 acres of woods; overlooking an expanse of ever-smooth water; keeping

company with the birds, breeze and trickling streams flowing throughout the developed property. Not only is it a contrast to our lives, it is a place that offers families, couples or individuals a plethora of contrasting options, to create a custom designed vacation all your own.

the lake or in the forest; and dinners from gourmet barbeque to 5 course meals, all prepared by Executive Chef Joseph Meitl, a graduate of Shawnee Mission South.

All this, coupled with complete concierge service – led by a small staff with a heart to serve others– no question, Stonewater Cove is a luxury resort you’ll visit again and again.

All things to all people: A wilderness adventure or pure pampering.

Get Away From It All.

The resort boasts only 25 guest studios and suites, with a maximum capacity of 100 guests. It occupies just 25 acres of the 400 acres owned by the Bonds’, making it small enough to explore, yet big enough that you can go forever without seeing someone.

Twenty-five miles of trails allow you to experience nature all alone, without sharing the trail or bumping into others passing by, as is often the case at popular national parks. At Stonewater Cove, the trail is your own, and the world belongs to you.

It’s the perfect place for a combination of people who want different things from their vacations. If you’re the outdoor type, you can enjoy a hike, a 4-wheel ride, zip lining, kayaking, fishing, swimming, boating and skiing. In contrast, if you prefer to be pampered, you can read a book for hours by the pool or enjoy a long massage at the Treehouse Spa. At Stonewater Cove, the phrase, “all things to all people,” takes on real meaning. Everyone will be perfectly happy.

So, if you want to get away from it all, before you consider traveling half a world away, consider Stonewater Cove Resort and Spa. Even from a bird’s eye view it is a luxury resort that is so well integrated into nature, it is almost invisible. Nestled in the woods, overlooking the water. This could be the place your family or you as a couple or individual make some of the best memories you’ll have to share forever. StonewaterCove.com.

Luxury Accommodations and Complete Concierge Service.

Imagine walking the hand-laid stone path to your room, surrounded by the stereophonic sounds of stream water trickling through stones placed to perfection along your way. Ancient trees – black oak, hickory, maple and cypress – stand tall all around you, the sparkling water of Table Rock glistening and glimmering through the leaves as they dance in a gentle breeze. Imagine the blanket of peace that wraps itself around you as you walk up the steps to what feels like your own personal, rustic cottage in the woods, put the key in the lock with its swinging metal cover, and push open the heavy solid wood door with its ironbarred speakeasy, like a Hobbit door.

Enter your one-of-a kind lakefront suite, custom designed by Ruth Bond with the care she gives her own homes. Marvel over every detail hand crafted by local artisans, the best of Ozark craftsmanship – chic not cheesy.

Dining from sun-up to sundown is an experience in itself, reminiscent of the best of home cooking or 5-star dining.

The ever-changing menu is designed to meet your needs – from light to hearty breakfasts; lunch served poolside, in the lounge, or boxed for enjoying while on December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 27

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Parent's Corner

Great Places to Take Your Grandkids In & Around Kansas City Article Lisa Harrison | Photography Provided

W

hether your grandchildren live in the area or visit just a few times a year, some of the best memories a grandparent can create with a grandchild involve trips to local venues that are kid-friendly and have lots to see, touch and do. Any outing that involves an element of history will be enhanced when grandma or grandpa can add their personal memories to the commentary.

Before school budgets were slashed, area students visited several of these attractions as a part of their science or social studies curriculum.

Please don’t assume that your grandchildren have been to these great

local attractions just because they have grown up down the street and around the corner from where they are located.

And don’t forget that you can turn the tables on this list. My two boys have enjoyed taking their grandpa to most of these venues over the past fifteen years when he’s in town visiting from Chicago. He was especially fond of the Steamboat Arabia and the Money Museum. Oh, the stories my boys learned about their grandpa who in his youth used to scuba dive for treasures at the bottom of the Chicago River. All because we took him to an amazing museum founded by some local treasure hunters. Happy exploring!

Classes, special exhibits, kid-friendly events.

The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve The history of mod-

Powell Gardens

PowellGardens.org

ern currency and more. KansasCityFed.org/MoneyMuseum

Shatto Milk Farm Tour the farm, meet the cows, taste all of their

Martha Lafite Nature Sanctuary A stunning nature preserve in

flavors! ShattoMilk.com

Liberty. NatureSanctuary.com Union Station Displays change every few months. Right now, it’s

pirate days! UnionStation.org Kaleidoscope A gift to the children of our city from the folks at Hall-

mark. HallmarkKaleidoscope.com National WWI Museum at Liberty Memorial Something every area resident

should experience. TheWorldWar.org Science City Worth a repeat visit every

few years. ScienceCity.com No matter which side of the aisle you prefer, this library is a national treasure.

TrumanLibrary.org

Truman Presidential Museum Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Train garden,

scenic views, Monet garden and more. OPKansas.org/things-tosee-and-do/arboretum-and-botanical-gardens

A visit to a new water park is a great summer day.

CityOfLS.net/Parks/Facilities/ Summit-Waves.aspx

Summit Waves Water Park Steamboat Arabia Local treasure hunters uncovered this Missouri River gem. 1856.com Deanna Rose Farmstead Feed the goats, fish in the pond, shop

at the General Store. OPKansas.org/Things-to-See-And-Do/ Deanna-Rose-Childrens-Farmstead 30 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Wonderscope Children’s Museum Rainy days and cold weather days

are perfect days for a little Wonderscope. Wonderscope.org

Great Wolf Lodge Spend the night for a real indoor water park

treat. GreatWolf.com Schlitterbahn Outdoor water park resort at Village West.

Schlitterbahn.com/kc Amtrak Day Trip Take the Amtrak from Downtown Lee’s Summit to Union Station and back for a great day of fun! Amtrak.com Kansas City Zoo The penguins have arrived! KansasCityZoo.org Sea Life Aquarium Get up close and personal with a shark or squid.

VisitSeaLife.com/Kansas-City

Master builders and millions of bricks! LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com/KansasCity

Legoland Discovery Center

Missouri Town 1855 25 buildings make up this living history

museum. JacksonGov.org/MissouriTown The Coterie Theater Theater for children at its best. TheCoterie.org Paradise Park Batting cages, go-karts, mini-golf, climbing wall, arcade games, Edu-tainment center for young ones, and much, much more! Paradise-Park.com Toy and Miniature Museum Exhibits of antique toys, dolls and memories of yester-year. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org

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Financial Fitness Caring for Aging Parents:

Don’t Wing It A

s the boomers and their parents age, more and more family members are managing eldercare responsibilities. The emotional, physical and financial demands of caring for aging parents can be extensive.

What’s more, the healthcare needs of aging parents can become overwhelmingly expensive — and may include costs that affect their family members in ways that aren’t immediately apparent.

Healthcare and finances aren’t easy topics for many families to broach. In fact, research from the Money Across Generations IISM study shows that 36 percent of boomers’ parents feel that healthcare discussions with their family members are likely or very likely to create tension or spark an argument.

Having a long-term road map and a savings plan in place can help you care for your parents in the way they desire while enabling you to continue working towards your financial goals. This can be helpful in making informed short-term decisions, especially when there are unexpected expenses and emotions involved.

To get started: Talk about finances now. While it may be uncomfortable for your parents to discuss their finances with you, it’s essential that you are familiar with their financial strategy and resources. This includes knowing what type of medical, disability and long-term care insurance they have and what those policies cover. Use this information – along with if and how much you’re willing to help from your own funds – to evaluate which healthcare options are realistically within reach when medical needs arise.

Create a contact list. Medical emergencies and sudden changes in a person’s health can happen as parents age. Because you may eventually need access to your parents’ bank accounts and other financial resources on short notice, make sure they’ve compiled a list of account numbers, computer login names and passwords, and the names, addresses and phone numbers of the profes32 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

sionals they work with. In addition to knowing the location of the list, you’ll also need to know the location of important financial and legal documents and lockbox keys.

Identify current healthcare costs and needs. Become familiar with the medical and pharmaceutical costs that your parent(s) currently incur and determine if there are ways to reduce these expenses. For example, you or your parents may consider moving from a name brand to a generic prescription or, instead of filling prescriptions at your local pharmacy, ordering a long-term supply from a mail-order provider.

Build a support network. Talk with siblings or other family members, neighbors and industry professionals to determine who can help you care for your aging parents — and in what capacity and at what cost. Proactively establishing a support network can help you avoid a strain on your time and energy down the road.

Anticipate future lifestyle changes and challenges. Even if they aren’t yet

needed, explore the costs of in-home, senior apartment, assisted living and memory care housing and services, as well as the costs of having a parent live with you. This includes determining whether your home would need to be modified to provide additional space or comforts, such as wheelchair access. Understanding these costs ahead of time can help you identify what you and your parents can afford and will give you time to consider the pros and cons of each option.

Become familiar with assistance programs. Your parents may qualify for government programs, supplements or services. Visit the government hosted benefits site — Govbenefits.gov — for information. Also, your county or city has a federally-mandated Area Agency on Aging staffed by professionals who can provide you with information about elder programs and services in your area.

Keep your retirement goals in mind. Continue to manage your budget and save for your future. Be mindful that leaving the workforce even temporarily, may seem

tempting — and in some cases may be necessary — but exiting and re-entering affects your immediate income and can impact your ability to maintain your earning power.

What’s more, it can impact your ability to take advantage of an employer-sponsored retirement plan. Consider these factors when you evaluate the total costs of any option.

Know your rights at work. The Federal Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) allows covered employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to provide care for a family member with a serious health condition.2 If you are caring for a parent, inform your Human Resources department about your situation to take advantage of this legal protection, if relevant, and create a workable plan within your company’s policies.

Thinking about caring for an ill or aging parent isn’t always easy to do, but creating a plan now can save you headaches down the road when new circumstances may suddenly arise as your parents age. Consider working with a financial advisor who can help you plan for unexpected expenses and prepare for the costs of healthcare during your own retirement.

Dan Hammond is a Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Kansas City, Mo. To contact Dan, call 816.448.5015 or email dan.hammond@ampf.com.

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Home Matters If your planned stay would be for less than five years, you may want to consider jumping into the next category of right-sizing.

Life’s pace brings this event to us more quickly than anticipated yet having a plan as it approaches is a very good idea.

Family and Close Friends – Clearly write down your short and long term goals and share them with close friends and family. Find out who might be willing to help and how.

Declutter and Reduce: Consider using close friends and fami-

Is it Time to Right Size?

W

hen it comes to real estate and home ownership, there are definite phases that affect our choices. Young newlyweds enjoy the quaintness of ranch or split level homes in areas of Prairie Village or Overland Park on lots adorned with mature trees. Quaint usually equates to small, so as children arrive, quaint gives way to the need for a larger home with multiple living areas, spacious closets and big backyards. These are the homes where children are raised and cherished memories are created. Passing too quickly, our children have moved on and the larger house becomes ineffective for our senior years. Reasons most often quoted for “down-sizing” or what has become more popularly known as “right-sizing” include: • Just don’t need all this house now that the kids have moved on • Really want to have master bedroom on first floor • Need to have all living spaces on one level • Want to reduce overall living expenses • Want to have maintenance-free living

ly members when completing this task. What a great time to give items to family members who will cherish them for years to come.

This will reduce the size of your move as the items can be given to family members ahead of time. This task can be emotionally and physically challenging…so limit yourself to an hour or so per day.

Donate: It is a great experience to give items to others in need.

Once the family is satisfied, call local, established charities. Many of them will pick up your donations for free and provide you with receipts for tax reduction.

A Place for Everything: Decide exactly what you would like to take with you. Remember, you just decluttered so avoid the temptation to keep too much. Obtain a floor plan for your new home or draw a rough sketch with dimensions. Your new mantra: less is more! Measure your new space, taking into consideration light switches, electrical outlets, fireplaces, built-ins, windows, best traffic patterns and doorways.

Inventory: Take a written and photographic inventory of what you are taking with you. Develop a sticker system to clearly identify what items are going where. For example, yellow stickers for items to donate, red for family and green for items going to your new home. Clearly mark each box for the room it will be going into and include a brief description of contents. Make an inventory list and number your boxes.

Movers: Get quotes and ask questions. Make sure you are comparing apple to apples and getting total/all-included pricing. Booking your move midweek or midmonth will help you avoid busy times.

You might save money, too.

Notify utilities of your upcoming move and other contacts of your new address.

Selling your home? Set value and marketing plan with your Realtor.

Repair damages/stage home.

Dangers of not down-sizing at the right time: • Kids might move back in with you • Your large storage spaces will allow you to keep accumulating what you don’t need

Cleaning – Prepare a box for cleaning supplies and take it to your new home in your vehicle so you have it on hand right away.

Considerations for Right Sizing:

This helpful information provided by Michael Hagen of The Michael

Each time you make a move, plan to live there for at least five years.

Shorter periods of time provide a greater likelihood of losing money and putting you through additional stress.

Hagen Group at Keller Williams Key Partners Realty. Contact him at

34 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Being prepared and organized will help your downsize go more smoothly.

913.710.9659 or MichaelHagen.com.

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For tax credit details and restrictions and a list of qualifying products, see the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement and FAQs at hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit. Hunter Douglas and its dealers are not tax advisors. Consult a tax professional regarding your individual tax situation and ability to claim a tax credit related to the purchase of the qualifying Duette Architella honeycomb shades. © 2013 Hunter Douglas. ® Registered trademark of Hunter Douglas.

For tax credit details and restrictions and a list of qualifying products, see the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement and FAQs at hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit. Hunter Douglas and its dealers are not tax advisors. Consult a tax professional regarding your individual tax situation and ability to claim a tax credit related to the purchase of the qualifying Duette Architella honeycomb shades. © 2013 Hunter Douglas. ® Registered trademark of Hunter Douglas.

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Your Neighbors

Food and Friendship Five couples, delicious dinners, marvelous memories Article Mary Bush | Photography Provided

T

wenty six years ago, five couples gathered to plan a casual, Typically, the club meets in a different home each month with the church-sponsored dinner and though much has changed since, host couple preparing the main course and selecting wine. Everyone one thing hasn’t. else chips in to bring mouthwatering appetizers, salads, side dishes “We enjoyed ourselves so much that long-ago evening, we decided and dessert. The group specializes in comfort food with the occathen and there to get together every month for dinner and we haven’t sional fish fry when Bill Young brings fresh Walleye from fishing missed a month since,” says Olathe trips to Northern Saskatchewan. resident Connie Young.

Each fall, the group celebrates the It all started in the fall of 1987 first delicious dinner that brought when four couples, including Connie them together with the same menu and husband Bill Young were planthey enjoyed in 1987: baked pork ning the menu for a progressive dinchops, rice and mushroom casserole, ner that the Presbyterian Church of fried apples and homemade rolls.

CONNIE YOUNG Stanley was sponsoring for its memThe piece de resistance is Ann Dubers. The couples met at each other’s we’s famous Bourbon Street Bread homes to taste test menu items and had such fun, they decided to Pudding. start their own dinner club. When one couple bowed out, two other “It’s so good we even put the sauce in our coffee,” says Rochelle couples, also church members, were recruited and since then, Over- Silvers. land Park residents Barry and Ann Duwe and Jim and Rochelle Silvers, Gardner residents Jerry Johnson and Sharon Minnick, Olathe- Meals and Memories Over the years, the group has produced as many memories as yumans Bob and Linda Wilhelm and the Youngs, have gathered monthly.

“It’s been more than two decades of camaraderie and friendship,” my meals including their annual “evening out” which happens during the holidays. The group diligently searches out unique and untried says Linda Wilhelm. “The wonderful food is an added bonus.” restaurants and has traveled all over the metro as well as to Atchison

We all agree that when something important or serious happens to us, it’s this group that walks through the door first.

36 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

and Topeka to find special dining venues.

The dinner club’s annual Super Bowl gathering has also produced memorable evenings, one in particular.

“The cable television crashed during the game one year so we unplugged crock pots, gathered up the food and went to another home to finish the evening,” says Young.

Once the group was resettled, one of the dinner club members suffered a kidney stone attack and had to be rushed to the hospital.

“None of us remembers how that game ended,” says Jerry Johnson.

More than Meals

In 1997, four of the five couples upped it a notch (one couple was on another trip) and cruised the Eastern Caribbean together.

They designed and wore identical, canary yellow t-shirts, the back of which lengthily and humorously described the group.

“We had to stand still quite a few times so people could read the backs of our shirts,” says Young. “We got a little more attention than we bargained for.”

Since then, the dinner club has cruised the Inland Passage of Alaska and traveled to Hawaii, Napa Valley and Colorado.

But the five couples have shared more than fun and food. There have been five bouts of cancer, one major illness and two deaths of spouses who have since found new mates. All dinner club members are retired and each couple has moved at least once since the group got together. Through it all, there have been no divorces.

The group’s children were all in elementary school when the dinner club began.

Young laughingly notes that over the years, the group has produced 16 children, 37 grandchildren, six dogs, 24 horses ( Johnson owns a ranch) and four cats.

“We’ve gone to many weddings and enjoyed the births of our grandchildren together,” says Young. “We’ve gone from experiencing things as younger friends to experiencing things as close, golden friends.”

And the experiences continue. When Jim Silvers successfully finished his 100th Triathlon several years ago, the entire group was there to cheer him on.

“We wouldn’t have been anywhere else,” says Young. “We all agree that when something important or serious happens to us, it’s this group that walks through the door first.”

Anne Duwe’s Bourbon Street Bread Pudding

8-10 servings

6 large eggs beaten 6 cups whole milk 2 cups sugar 10-12 cups 2” cubes of 2-day-old French bread 2 T pure vanilla extract 2 T brandy 1 1/2 cups raisins Combine all ingredients and let stand in frig overnight. Butter and flour a 10 1/2 x 14 1/2 x 2” pan. Pour ingredients into pan, set pan in larger pan and add very hot water well up the sides of the larger pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 -60 min. Serve with warm bourbon sauce Bourbon Sauce 1/2 c. butter 2 c. packed light brown sugar 2 c. heavy cream 1/2 c. bourbon Mix sugar and butter, stir in cream, heat until hot and thick and add bourbon.

(The Dinner Club loves to stir the sauce into their coffee so Ann doubles the sauce.

However, she only uses 2 1/2 cups of cream while doubling all other ingredients.)

Rochelle’s Smothered Pork Chops

Brown 1” thick pork chops that have been dredged in flour, salt, and pepper.

Remove chops from the pan and make sauce or gravy as you normally would with pan drippings but using apple juice as the liquid. The sauce will be a very thin consistency. Pour over the chops and bake 250 degrees for four hours.

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Please Join Us

7th Annual Luncheon, Women Who’ve Changed the Heart of the City 2014 Honorees: Lynda Callon, Patty Garney & Sandra Aust, & Betsy Vander Velde April 15, 2014 at the Sheraton Crown Center Ballroom Time: 11am – 1pm cityunionmission.org | 816.329.1476

Giving Back

When Giving Back is a Way of Life The Legacy of Jim and Barbara Hanson article Lisa Allen | Photography Lisa Harrison

Some stories are too big for word count limits. Jim and Barbara Hanson’s story is one of those stories. No strangers to gracing the pages of newspapers, they are respected volunteers and proud parents, grandparents and great grandparents with a story that is a little bit of everything—romance, adventure, family and giving back—all wrapped into one.

They met one fateful day at Children’s Mercy Hospital. Barbara was a new volunteer, attending a required volunteer meeting with more than 250 other volunteers, including Jim. Unfamiliar with the downtown area, she had difficulty finding her way to the hospital and, once there, forgot where she parked.

Jim helped her find her car, and they exchanged phone numbers.

He called later that night to be sure she made it home safely; they talked for hours and were each equally impressed with how much they had in common. Both widowed with two children, they shared a deep faith and similar interests.

It was only a few months later that Jim popped the question, fittingly enough at a New Year’s Eve celebration at the hospital. Jim had already established a tradition of organizing a party for parents and nurses, and Barbara says she noticed that people were following them from one nurse’s station to another but she couldn’t quite figure out why.

“They all knew, of course,” says Jim. Barbara was in a wheelchair, recovering from surgery at the time, and was surprised when Jim dropped to one knee and asked her to be his wife.

“That’s the way you do it,” he says.

Jim had been volunteering for 20 years before meeting Barbara that day in 2007, just three months after she began volunteering. He says becoming a volunteer was the birthday present he gave himself in 1987. This month marks his 26th year as a volunteer.

“It was something I’d wanted to do for a long time,” he says.

He started by holding babies and working in the Infant-Toddler Care Unit.

“He’s amazing to see with those babies,” says Barbara. “I can’t do what he does; the tubes and the wires that so many of them need intimidate me, but he just picks them up and can soothe them like no one else.”

He attributes his ease with children to his own time as a foster child, and says he was often charged with caring for other foster kids who were younger than himself. Jim was eventually adopted, and his mother left her career as a teacher to devote herself to teaching Jim. He went on to graduate from Yale University and established a suc40 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

cessful career in the agricultural futures market. It was that work that brought him to Kansas City after college.

Barbara was also no stranger to working with children; she owned and operated Stilwell Pre-School for 27 years before selling it and moving to Overland Park in 2003. She began volunteering at Children’s Mercy Hospital because she missed spending time with children.

Together they’ve volunteered countless hours and have done everything from holding babies to changing sheets to helping patients fill out paperwork. Barbara took on the daunting task of organizing the Clothing Room and Jim has served as a mentor for other volunteers. They have each been honored with awards, including Jim’s 1990 Volunteer of the Year Award, Barbara’s June 2010 Volunteer of the Month Award and Jim’s 2008 Points of Light Award.

But it’s the more intimate connections they’ve created that seem to matter most to them. Barbara shares that she saved boxes of art supplies from her preschool; at the time she packed them up and stored them, she wasn’t quite sure why she felt compelled to do so or what, exactly, she’d do with them. Now, she sets up a table every Monday and Tuesday where she helps patients complete a new art project.

She’s framed and hung in their home a sketch done by one young patient; we talk about how she sees a face in the strokes that fill the matted page and I share that I see the outline of an angel, replete with wings. Smiling, she flips the frame over to reveal the name of the artist, along with a handwritten reminder that the child is partially blind.

Then there’s the picture of Jim giving a piggy back ride to a developmentally challenged boy he attended classes with as a para-educator in 2002 and 2003; his influence and dedication helped the boy finish school. They stay in touch with him to this day, keeping tabs on how he’s doing in his new home and taking him out for meals at Winstead’s.

There’s so much more to their story; their beautiful new great-grandbaby Aria, Jim’s time at schools speaking about what it means to be a veteran, their skydiving adventures, and the Olympic Torch that Jim once carried that now serves as a table centerpiece are just a few. Those stories will have to wait, though, because they’re both due at the hospital where they will continue to be the change we’d all like to see in the world.

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Worship Time

Seven of the children who portrayed Baby Jesus in performances of Christmas at Resurrection recently joined with this year’s baby for a photo opportunity.

Pictured left to right are Anna Sharp, Jake Wilson, Gideon Hargrove, Cassie Campbell, Emmaus Cates-Cattaneo, Olivia Burgess holding Mackenna Berg, and Edward Robertson. The portrait is of Logan Burgess, Baby Jesus in 2007.

Logan passed away from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in 2008.

Happy 10th Anniversary, Christmas at Resurrection!

Article Donna Karlen Photography Bob Compton,

W

hen more than 300 actors, musicians and dancers take the stage at The Church of the Resurrection for the 10th anniversary performance of Christmas at Resurrection this year, they will be joined by wellknown Kansas City actor John Rensenhouse, whose many professional credits include Scar in the Broadway production of The Lion King. “We are very excited that John is joining us this year to tell the Christmas story,” said Kevin Bogan, Christmas at Resurrection creator and director.

Christmas at Resurrection has become the “can’t miss” event of the holiday season in the Kansas City area, and the 2013 production is a celebration of the best from the past 10 years. One of the perennial audience favorites is “The Little Drummer Boy” which features a drum line and is the only piece that has been included in every performance throughout the years.

“This year we’ll have a special twist for ‘Little Drummer Boy’,” said Lin Sanford, Christmas at Resurrection performer and Resurrection staff member. “It’s something you won’t want to miss.”

Christmas at Resurrection presents the message of Christmas in two acts. The first act features festive Christmas songs performed

by Resurrection’s children’s choir, small groups and soloists and the full adult choir and orchestra. Vignettes by actors and dancers accompany each song.

The music and drama of the second act presents the traditional 42 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Christmas story of Mary and Joseph travelling to Bethlehem and giving birth to Jesus. This act includes Simon the donkey carrying Mary across the stage. Some behind-the-scenes drama has been known to happen with the show’s popular four-legged actor.

“Sometimes he just doesn’t want to move,” laughed Sara Blakesley-Goering, who has ridden on Simon’s back as Mary for nine years of performances. “But one year he started going before I was really on – Joseph kind of had to carry me across next to Simon.”

Then there’s the obvious concern of Simon having an accident on stage. “We just have to sing through it!” Bogan said.

Another fun twist to this year’s Christmas at Resurrection will be the return to the stage of seven of the children who have portrayed Baby Jesus. “They will make at least one special appearance,” Sanford said. “It will be fun to see if people can spot them.”

When the children gathered at Resurrection for a recent photo shoot, their parents all agreed they felt a little tense during their babies’ debut performances on stage. Debra Burgess, the mother of two of the babies, recalled hiding behind the manger and holding her sleeping daughter until it was time for her big moment.

One of the children, Baby Jesus No. 8, is the son of Dustin Cates who plays Joseph. Cates described a scene in the 2011 show where he lifted the baby, raising him high, and how his son simultaneously raised up his own tiny hands. “That part has always been very powerful for me, but with my own son – it was really meaningful!”

Ten years ago when Resurrection’s Senior Pastor Adam Hamilton charged Bogan with creating a Christmas pageant, neither of them dreamed it would become such a special holiday tradition for so many in the Kansas City area. “The first year it was more of a concert,” Bogan explained. “I wanted the evening to be visually as well as musically appealing, and added the dancers and drama in year two. I never imagined that the production would reach the level it is now, or that people would be calling months in advance from all over the area to bring large groups to experience Christmas at Resurrection.”

“We are so excited to share this extraordinary evening of beautiful Christmas music and the inspiring retelling of the first Christmas with our community for the 10th year,” Hamilton said. “The message of joy and hope depicted in Christmas at Resurrection is for everyone!”

“Christmas at Resurrection marks the beginning of the holiday season for us,” remarked long-time attendees Sue and Mike Hess.

“It really gets us in the holiday spirit. Each year, there’s something new to see.”

Details

Christmas at Resurrection performances are December 11-15, at 7:30 pm in Resurrection’s Sanctuary, plus a Saturday matinee at 1 pm on December 14. All seats are reserved and ticket prices range from $12 to $21; group discounts are available for 25 or more. Tickets may be ordered online at ChristmasAtResurrection.org. The Wednesday evening performance, added in 2012, is offered for non-profit and inner-city school groups to attend. Interested groups can visit the website for information on ordering complimentary tickets.

Star Students

Parker Harrison, Alex Fuehr, Zachary Orr, Dane Jones, Cole Chapman, David Berkowitz, Nathan Thomas, Chris Schenken, Warren Bower, Kaleb Cox, Matt Cook, Carson Rutledge, Robert Tenny and Cole Christenson

Troop 10 Eagles Honored Photography Jim Thomas

F

ourteen Boy Scouts from Troop 10 in Leawood have recently earned the rank of Eagle, logging nearly 1,300 total volunteer hours to complete their projects. The group was recognized at a special Court of Honor ceremony in November at Blue Valley Northwest High School.

The new rank advancements bring to 402 the number of Scouts who have attained the Eagle rank since the troop was founded in 1975.

ect, Dane planned and coordinated the refinishing and staining of picnic tables and an arbor at Midnight Farm in Baldwin City, Kan. Warren L. Bower, son of Scott and Brenda Bower, is a senior at Blue

Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Warren planned, organized and supervised the building and delivery of two picnic tables for Ozanam in Kansas City for use in the outdoor recreation area.

Cole W. Christenson, son of Lane and Teresa Christenson, is a ju-

nior at Blue Valley High School. For his Eagle Scout project, Cole drafted, planned, and coordinated the building of an animal enclosure for Lakeside Nature Center in Kansas City.

Nathan Thomas, son of Tracy and Judy Thomas, is a junior at Blue Val-

ley North High School. For his Eagle project, Nathan directed the construction of three bookcases for the dormitories at Ozanam in Kansas City and conducted a book drive, collecting hundreds of books for the center.

David R. Berkowitz, son of Howard and Karrin Berkowitz, is a ju-

nior at Blue Valley High School. David’s Eagle project involved overseeing, organizing and managing the building of 20 bluebird houses for Lakeside Nature Center.

Cole J. Chapman, son of Mark and Laurel Chapman, is a freshman at

Blue Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Cole planned and coordinated the building of a three-section compost bin for the use of the gardeners at the community gardens for the City of Fairway, Kan.

Dane M. Jones, son of Michael Jones and Monique de Quay-Jones,

is a senior at Blue Valley Northwest High School. For his Eagle proj-

continued >

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 43

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at Blue Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Robert designed, planned and coordinated the construction of two book shelves for Ozanam in Kansas City and conducted a book drive in which he collected more than 1,000 books for the facility.

Chris B. Schenken, son of John and Cynthia Schenken, is a freshman at Blue Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Chris designed, planned and coordinated the construction of a garbage can enclosure at the South Park house, a part of Community Living Opportunities in Johnson County, Kan. Zachary Orr, son of Michael and Joy Beth Orr, is a senior at Blue Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Zachary planned and coordinated the building of wheelchair-accessible flower beds that allow persons with disabilities to participate in horticultural therapy at Midnight Farm.

Kaleb A. Cox, son of Krista and David Cox, is a junior at Blue Valley High School. For his Eagle project, Kaleb designed, planned and coordinated the building of several book displays and collected more than 800 books for Reach Out and Read Kansas City, an early childhood literacy nonprofit organization.

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Parker C. Harrison, son of Tim and Lisa Harrison, is a senior

at Blue Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Parker coordinated the construction and installation of several storage shelves for the preschool at the Presbyterian Church of Stanley.

Matthew C. Cook, son of Jim and Kathi Cook, is a junior at Blue Valley North High School. For his Eagle project, Matt planned and coordinated the refinishing of two picnic tables and two benches for Bethel Neighborhood Center in Kansas City, Kan. Thomas Carson Rutledge, son of Jeromy and D’Laine Rutledge,

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 45

Driver’s Notebook

The Most Important Conversation Talking to your aging parents about driver retirement Article Susan Cohen

W

atching our parents’ age. It's the shared experience of all adult children. In the last 40 years, aging in America has become more complicated and in some respects, more dangerous. Our parents are living longer due to advances in medical care. More significantly, they are the first generation that experienced near universal car ownership. Many bought a home in the suburbs to raise their family. Although they are aging, they are still driving and have the mistaken belief that they will never be too old to drive. But many of us have a hunch or outright knowledge that our aging parents and relatives are not able to reliably or safely drive any longer. Missed stop signs, hitting curbs and merging without checking blind spots are some of the many scary things they do behind the wheel. Scratches on the side of the vehicle or dents in the bumper are often warning signs about the driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Long after we stop letting them drive our young children as passengers, we talk to them about giving up driving.

Researchers in the field recommend early and frequent discussions with aging parents about driving and formulating a plan. It is like planting the seed of the idea that driving cannot go on forever. Statistics show that drivers over age 75 crash more despite driving less. After age 80, crashes and related injuries rise greatly.

Planning for “retirement from driving” is critical and the time to start is when our parents are in their 60s or 70s, not their 80s, and well before the family has observed concerns.

46 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

We expect our parents to plan financially for retirement and we may have seen them downsize their home, or consider it, but it is unlikely they have a plan for getting around after they stop driving. The same lack of awareness that makes them miss the stop sign or drive 30 mph in a 45 mph zone is what causes them to think they are still good drivers. Denial is common for the over 75 group.

Rarely will they stop driving on their own, even when exhibiting dangerous driving behaviours.

A series of conversations works best. Starting when the driver is still competent, you can discuss the need to plan for driving less, then for much less and finally for not at all. All conversations need to include the alternatives available locally for getting around without a car. Trying out those alternatives before they stop driving will allow an easier transition. Once the planning for driving retirement begins, the need to move closer to desired destinations or to a place where alternative transportation is available may become evident. All family who are concerned should be aware of the potential for clinical depression if the person experiences a sense of social isolation and lack of activity due to the loss of transportation options.

Encourage your parents to talk with their friends to see how their peers are approaching this issue. If possible, it’s wise to encourage your parents to share responsibility for this decision.

For those discussing driving retirement with an already medically impaired driver, a collaborative effort may be needed including a pre-

liminary conversation with the driver's physician by family members.

This team approach may convince the driver of the seriousness of the situation. Referral to a driving rehabilitation programs is another alternative, where a comprehensive clinical and behind-the-wheel evaluation occurs. If the driver is counseled not to drive, it removes the pressure from family and physicians, and incorporates a third party, who gives an unbiased assessment. This allows the anger and frustration to be directed at someone other than family members, and provides concrete statistics on performance and errors made behind the wheel, which helps to support the recommendation.

Reports can be filed (anonymously if need be) with the driver licensing authorities in the states of Missouri and Kansas. A report will lead to a review of the driver for medical fitness to drive with the possibility that the license will be removed. Sadly, some families have resorted to hiding car keys, disabling the car or removing the car to another location. These situations are not easy and many families don't care to get involved hoping it will resolve itself before anyone gets killed or injured. All of us sharing the roads with medically impaired drivers hope families and physicians will act responsibly toward their loved ones and patients.

Remember that it may take up to a decade to resolve and children need to start early and stay focused on developing a plan that ensures your parents have mobility after they are no longer able to drive. It is very important to keep an open dialogue going with your parents and actively work to reduce the denial and avoidance that most families experience around this issue.

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What's Cooking?

Feeding Our Families Written By Katie Boyer Newell

Feeding Our Families cookbook offers 48 complete and simply explained dinner plans that will help you bring back the made-fromscratch family dinner. Arranged seasonally and using only pure, healing ingredients, Newell has teamed up with her chef husband to create a cookbook that will teach you how to use real food to excite the palate, heal the body and nourish the soul.

In addition to all of the recipes, Feeding Our Families includes a section explaining how food heals and information on ingredients used in this book. Feeding Our Families will revolutionize the way you look at food, one delicious bite at a time.

Instructions: Prep your produce: Core, trim, and thinly slice

Author Katie Boyer Newell is from Shawnee and writes a local food blog called Health Nut Foodie.

have to spend much time getting the kitchen cleaned up before friends arrive to watch movies, drink wine, or play games. This dinner is packed with nutrients, light on fat and calories, and full of flavor. Evening gatherings always seem to involve some sort of treat. Eating this meal before hand will leave you with a little wiggle room to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients (Serves four):

Braised Chicken, Fennel, and Tomatoes prepared in a parmesan infused broth over brown rice START TO FINISH: 25 MINUTES, MOSTLY INACTIVE

This dinner is the perfect example of how a few high quality ingredients come together with simple preparations to create a flavorful, easy, and healthy dinner your whole family will adore. (You really do just throw everything into a skillet with a lid.) This is a great meal to make on nights you are entertaining, but not for dinner. It requires little cleaning, little prep, and is packed with nutrients. That means you don't 48 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Both my girls love this simple dinner. You are basically steaming the chicken and infusing it with flavor. This keeps it super moist and kid-friendly. This dish is naturally gluten-free.

Those sensitive to nuts can omit the pine nuts, but otherwise proceed as written. Vegetarians can omit the chicken and add 2 – 3 cups of prepared white beans to the vegetable mixture. The beans will absorb the flavors just as well as the chicken. Serves four.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 pound Fennel bulb, 1 large or 2 small Cherry or grape tomatoes, 1 pint Parmigiano-Reggiano, 1/2 cup Dry white wine, 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp Sea salt, 1/2 tsp + 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp Cooked brown rice, 3 cups Reserved fennel fronds, 1/4 cup Pine nuts, 1/4 cup Note: If you are new to working with fennel, please do not be intimidated. Chop off the stems and then core it like cabbage. Once I overcame my “prep” insecurities, fennel quickly became one of my favorite veggies! As for the fronds, those are the little dill looking things growing from the stalks.

your fennel. Reserve about ¼ cup of the fronds for garnish. Halve one pint cherry or grape tomatoes.

Braise your chicken and vegetables: Place fennel and tomatoes into a large skillet with lid. Pour ½ cup each white wine and Parmigiano-Reggiano on top. Drizzle vegetables with 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, and season with ½ tsp each sea salt and fresh ground black pepper. Lay chicken breasts on top of vegetables. Season chicken breasts with an additional ½ tsp each sea salt and fresh ground black pepper. Cover with lid.

Using high heat, bring mixture just to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer covered for 15 – 20 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Pulling it all together: Transfer chicken from skillet to cutting board, and let rest for a couple minutes. Arrange hot rice on a serving platter. Pour contents of skillet over rice. Slice chicken, and lay on top of vegetables. Garnish with ¼ cup pine nuts and fennel fronds.

Dust a bit of smoked paprika over the entire dish for eye appeal. Serve and enjoy! © Copyright 2010, Katie Newell, Healthnut Foodie LLC. Please reprint only with written permission from the author.

Moroccan Spiced (Chicken) Sausage And Vegetable Couscous START TO FINISH: 50 MINUTES, 15 MINUTES ACTIVE

This recipe was originally created on a day when the heat index was 110 degrees. We had been planning on doing a Moroccan dish on the grill, but when it came time start, I felt guilty asking Darren cook outdoors. When we realized that the results turned out even better using the oven, we quickly added this

of plain yogurt into the little ones' couscous. Veg-

mushrooms and quarter. Toss with remaining teaspoon of seasoning and an additional tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. Remove sausages from packaging and pierce each one with a fork 3 - 4 times. When 10 minutes have lapsed, remove peppers and onions from oven. Place whole chicken sausages and quartered mushrooms on the remaining fourths of the baking sheet. Return to oven and roast all ingredients for 20 minutes.

etarians, you can either use your favorite meat-

Prepare your couscous, finish your veggies and

free sausage, or double the veggies and omit

sausages: When the 20 minutes have lapsed, turn sausages, and stir vegetables. Return baking sheet to oven for the remaining 10 minutes of roasting. In a small saucepan, bring 1 1/3 cup of chicken broth just to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/3 cup whole wheat couscous and cover pan with a tight fitting lid. Let couscous stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. After fluffing, stir in remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, pepitas, golden raisins, lemon zest and juice, and ¼ tsp each sea salt and fresh ground black pepper. Remove vegetables and sausages from oven and let stand just a couple minutes.

Getting it on the table: While the sausages rest, coarsely chop ¼ cup cilantro leaves.

Toss couscous with peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Thinly slice sausages. Pour Moroccan spiced vegetable couscous onto a large serving platter. Top with sausage, and garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve and enjoy!

Ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp Sweet paprika, 1/4 tsp, aka Hungarian Ground cayenne pepper, 1/4 tsp Sea salt, 1 tsp Ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp dinner to our cold weather favorites! Please do not let the long list of ingredients intimidate you! They are all inexpensive and readily available at your local market all year long.

The Moroccan seasoning blend is as simple as measuring out a bit of this and a bit of that!

When purchasing your chicken sausages, be sure to source brands that are made from chickens that are free from antibiotics. Enjoy your healing and flavorful dinner as your tastebuds transform you to a far away land!

Adaptations: Once my three-year-old understood that sausages are really just apple hot dogs, she chowed. To keep the mess to a minimum, stir a bit

the sausage all together. This dish is gluten-free by using quinoa in place of the couscous, and by verifying that there are no gluten ingredients in your brand of sausage. This dish is naturally free of nuts and any nut products. (Double check the ingredients on the sausages.) Serves four.

Ingredients (Serves four):

Chicken apple sausage links, 4, about 1 pound Red bell pepper, 1 Small red onion, 1 Baby bella mushrooms, 2 cups Extra virgin olive oil, 3 tbsp, divided Whole wheat couscous, 1 1/3 cups Chicken broth, 1 1/3 cups Lemon, 1, zest and juice Pepitas (toasted pumpkin seeds), 1/4 cup Golden raisins, 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup For the seasonings: Garlic powder, 1 tsp Ground cumin, 1 tsp Ground coriander, 1 tsp Ground ginger, 1/2 tsp

Instructions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees for about 10 minutes.

While oven heats, prepare your seasonings and

In a small bowl or ramekin, combine all ingredients listed under “seasonings”. Remove the stem, seeds, and ribs of 1 red bell pepper. Peel 1 small red onion. Cut bell pepper and onion into 1 inch pieces (approximately). Toss peppers and onions with all but 1 tsp of the combined seasonings. Toss again with 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Pour peppers and onions onto one half of the baking sheet. When oven is preheated, roast peppers and onions for 10 minutes. vegetables:

While peppers roast, prepare your mushrooms and sausage:

© Copyright 2010 by Katie Newell, Healthnut Foodie LLC.

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WORKING TO PUT THE BRAKES ON UNSAFE OLDER DRIVERS Area family has turned a personal tragedy into a mission to protect an aging driving population from making serious mistakes.

Article Katherine Bontrager | Photography Lisa Harrison

E

very time Susan Cohen hears of an elderly driver losing control and crashing into another car, a building, or, terrifyingly, onlookers at a parade, her frustration—and resolve—grow. She understands all too well the heartbreak older impaired drivers can wreak. Cohen lost her son Nathan Krasnopoler in August of 2011 when an 83-year-old driver made the most tragic of mistakes.

A sophomore at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md., Nathan was riding his bike, returning from the farmer’s market via the bike lane, when an elderly driver turned into him, trapping him under her Honda Civic. Confused and disoriented, the driver got out of her car—which remained running— and sat down on a nearby wall. It was up to horrified witnesses to turn off the engine, call for emergency services, and help paramedics free Nathan.

50 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Number of Annual Driver Fatalities per 100 million VMT

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

Age

http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/statistics/2007/nhts1231.cfm

Figure 3 United States Annual Fatalities of Drivers per 100 Million Vehicle Miles Traveled

Older drivers become more crash prone with age, even though they drive less.

While Nathan’s helmet protected his head, his lungs collapsed, depriving him of oxygen for more than 20 minutes and causing severe brain damage. His face, scalded by the car’s engine, was covered in fourth-degree burns. After 10 surgeries to repair his skin, and five months with no sign of cognition, doctors confirmed his parents’ worst nightmare: He was in a vegetative state and would never recover cognitive functions.

Cohen and her husband, Mitchell Krasnopoler, were left grieving and in shock. To add insult to grievous injury, the police who responded to the accident never turned the driver over to the Department of Motor Vehicles, which has a medical advisory board that reviews drivers’ ability to function behind the wheel.

“Those police felt sorry for her,” Cohen says. “She was the age of their grandparents. And they didn’t understand the laws well enough to know that she’d violated some laws. They thought our son was at fault. But she’d failed to yield to him in the bike lane.

In addition, she broke the law that states cars have to stay at least 3 feet away from a cyclist at all times, and the law that dictates that when you’ve been in an accident, you have to summon medical help if it’s needed. She was never turned in for an evaluation to determine if she was fit to drive. She’d had three glaucoma surgeries, which can restrict your field of vision, but she was free to return to the road.”

It was clear to Cohen and her husband that the accident that ripped their lives apart was entirely preventable. Not only were state driving laws not advanced enough to handle an ever-increasing influx of elderly drivers, but law enforcement was often not properly trained to handle these potentially impaired citizens.

“As we researched the accident and learned more about older drivers in this country, we came to one conclusion and that is, in America, you can drive until you drop dead,” Cohen says.

“No one will stop you, unless your children or grandchildren do. But for the most part, no one will stop you. We want to address these problems.”

Cohen and Krasnopoler have done just that—first in Maryland and now in Kansas and Missouri through their organization Americans For Older Driver Safety (AFODS). (Although AFODS does not yet have charitable organization status from the IRS, another local non-profit, KidsAndCars.org, agreed to sponsor AFODS so that charitable gifts could be made to AFODS through the sponsor.) Its mission is to advocate for safer roads through driver education, assessment, retraining and transitioning; and to raise public awareness of the safety risks related to unmonitored changes in driver abilities.

Their mission is not, Cohen emphasizes, to force older Americontinued >

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 51

older drivers

(continued)

cans to hand over their car keys. “Driving in America is absolutely important. There is not enough alternative mobility. And the economy needs older drivers and Baby Boomers, of which I’m one, to shop until we drop. So it’s not about keeping safe drivers off the road. It’s about keeping us safe. Nobody wants to be in the shoes of the woman who took Nathan’s life. Simply put: It’s not a matter of age, it’s a matter of ability. My own mother, at age 89, is a very good driver. She’s very safe, very cautious. We need to work together as a community to educate older drivers of the aging-related changes that affect driving and how to address those changes to safely continue driving.”

And the number of older drivers on the road is about to skyrocket. Baby Boomers make up the largest generation in American history—with more than 80 million people, representing about one-quarter of the U.S. population.

“I’ve heard it referred to as a ‘senior tsunami,’ because the number of Americans 65 and older is expected to more than double from 40 million today to 88.5 million by 2050,” Cohen says.

This in itself is not a bad thing. However, according the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of fatal crashes per mile begins to climb at 70, then steeply increases after the age of 80—even while these same age groups drive fewer miles. The organization notes that this is largely due to the fragility of older drivers and age-related declines in vision, physical mobility, reaction time, and cognitive impairments that may affect driving abilities. [Insert graph on United States Annual Drivers] And sadly, most state licensing offices aren’t equipped to handle this onslaught of aging drivers. In Kansas, drivers age 65 and older receive a four-year license (those younger renew every six years), and in Missouri, 18- to 20-year-olds and those 70 and over renew every three years (compared to six years for those outside those age groups). As Cohen points out, dramatic mental and physical changes can occur to the elderly in such a broad time period. She thinks a two-year span would be far safer, potentially catching dangerous changes before too much time is spent driving.

What other changes does AFODS hope to impart locally?

Aside from more frequent license renewal for those over 70, the group wants to push for additional education for families, older drivers themselves, law enforcement, as well as training for DMV staff so they can better spot drivers who may be impaired.

“No law change in the world is going to make up for counter staff who have no training or procedure to deal with an older driver who is not understanding even the most basic directions about the renewal of their license,” Cohen says.

Cohen also plans to offer classes to seniors to teach the situations that cause the most older driver crashes, such as intersections with no signal for left-hand turns, and increasing their awareness that medications they may be taking could affect their driving skills.

“There are so many little things drivers can do to remain on the road more safely,” she says. “The mirrors in the car may need to 52 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

be enlarged or changed. Back-up cameras can be installed. And drivers can be trained to determine when someone is in their blind spot. Also, everyone needs to be aware of what resources are available to them in regards to driver rehabilitation and training.”

And most potently, Cohen can offer stories. “Even in some of the less tragic stories, every driver who caused a crash or incident didn’t think anything was wrong with their driving. We need to explain that everyone needs to be aware of the changes that take place as we age, and realize those changes could have a serious impact on our ability to safely sit behind the wheel.”

For those who’ve come to accept that driving may no longer be in their—or anyone’s—best interest, the group hopes to offer mobility counseling.

“Really it’s to help people find other means of transportation,” Cohen says. “You can’t assume an older person can get themselves on a city bus. It might be too rough of a ride, or the stairs are too steep, or the whole experience too confusing. So really people need assistance in trying to find alternatives that work for them to keep them mobile. Before someone can hang up the keys, they need to discover their mobility options and get comfortable with them.”

It is tiresome work, navigating individual state laws, motivating law enforcement and those at the DMV to listen and get on board, and struggling through the ubiquitous red tape that’s inherent with taking on the powers-that-be. But Cohen is ready. As a lawyer who formerly worked for the Attorney General of Maryland, she knows what it takes to get change accomplished. And she most fervently hopes she can make that difference before more lives are needlessly lost.

For more information, visit AFODS.org.

The first week of December has been designated Older Driver Safety Week by the American Occupational Therapy Association in the hopes of increasing awareness of the many solutions to driving problems encountered by older adults caused by aging and disease. Occupational therapists get specialized training to work with drivers and offer solutions including: left foot accelerators or hand controls for problems with feet or legs; steering knobs for easier steering for painful hands; special mirrors for vision problems or difficulties turning the head; and equipment to make entering and exiting the driver’s seat easier. Locally, Shawnee Mission Medical Center and the Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City each have driving programs serving older adults. Find a video and information covering a different topic related to older drivers each day of Older Driver Safety Week at: AOTA.org/en/Conference-Events/ Older-Driver-Safety-Awareness-Week.aspx.

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Memories Lifetime Making

for a

Area couple shares tradition of showing their grandchildren the world

The Florence skyline at sunset. Florence is the home of fabulous art such as The

Article and Photography Tom Strongman

David and the Uffizzi Gallery.

I

My wife, Susan, makes good on a birthday promise to take our 13-yearold granddaughter, Ellen Swanson, of Leawood, on a gondola ride as soon as we arrived in Venice.

54 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

f you ask my granddaughter what she did last summer, she may reply, “I went to gladiator school and was blessed by the Pope.”

Hardly your typical summer vacation, but that was the point.

My wife and I took our granddaughter Ellen on a tour of Italy in late June. The gladiator school was our first event in Rome.

Kids donned togas, tried on gladiator helmets and learned about Roman battle tactics. Then, armed with foam swords, they battled other “gladiators” in one-on-one fights as gathered parents cheered from stands that were like a medieval arena. Gladiator school was a perfect way for her to experience history first hand and it certainly enhanced our visit to the Coliseum later that day because the stories seemed more real.

Travel is a great way for children to experience other cultures and gain a personal perspective on history. Plus, travelling with a

cause Andy was interested in World War II. Walking on Omaha Beach and visiting the Normandy American Cemetery bring textbook stories to life like nothing else can.

For her trip, Ellen chose Italy and we booked through Trafalgar. Fortunately there were several teen girls in our group and they soon connected as only teenagers can. We spent nights in Rome, Florence and Venice, with day trips to San Gimignano, Pisa, Assisi and Bologna. Our trip was eight days long and the schedule was packed. We often arose at 6:30 a.m. and left our hotel by 7:30 or 8. Dinner was provided on most nights, so our days usually ended at 9 p.m.

The Tuscan countryside viewed from the village of San Gimignano. Ellen and other young people One night the kids made their own woodon our tour made and cooked their own pizza on our first evening in Rome. One of the domes in the fired pizza and on another we had dinner Basilica of St. Peters in the Vatican. at a farm in the hills overlooking Florence.

The schedule was tiring but fun. One aftergrandchild gave us several days of one-on-one time that we don’t noon, we skipped optional activities and took a long nap. normally get, even though we live just a mile apart.

Our tour director was excellent. He constantly regaled us with We took each of our now-grown children to Europe when they historical stories punctuated with humor. He knew how to enwere 13 and we want to do the same with our grandchildren. Thir- tertain, but he also had a way of commanding attention from the teen is a good age because younger children may not have the children when their attention wandered. The kids often flocked maturity and attention span for foreign travel and older kids get around him. loaded up with summer sports and summer jobs.

Our first grandchild trip was three years ago with Andy, Ellen’s brother. My wife had a brilliant idea. Instead of booking our own itineraries, why not try a tour for families? It might have other young people in the group and some activities would be tailored specifically for youth. In addition, a tour makes life a little easier because they handle hotel reservations, provide transportation, move your luggage and let you go to the head of the line at many tourist attractions. It worked out perfectly. We toured London and Paris and Andy met five other young men. They sat together on bus rides and kibitzed in museums. They still text now and then, even today.

After Paris, we left the tour and took a train to Normandy beDecember 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 55

Kids on our family tour take a quick break in the backstreets of Venice.

Ellen and Susan grab a quick gelato while waiting for our tour of the Coliseum.

On each of our tours we met several grandparents travelling with their grandchildren as well as young families travelling together.

Grandparents and grandchildren often share a unique relationship and travelling together enhances it. Nothing creates a special memory more than a scarf bought by the Trevi fountain, purse shopping with grandma in an Italian village or eating gelato before noon. We found that spending a week together made us closer in a way only daily living can. When else does a granddaughter get to tease her grandmother about how long it takes to fix her hair in the morning?

Our second day in Rome began with a Vatican tour. We stood in line for nearly two hours, but soaking up the beauty of the artwork and the solemnity of the basilicas was more than worth the wait. Being in the Sistine Chapel is an experience of a lifetime.

In a stroke of good fortune we were there on a day when Pope Francis was to make an appearance at noon. We ducked into the shade and waited with the crowd in St. Peter’s Square. A few minutes after twelve he appeared in his apartment window overlooking the square, gave a brief homily and blessed all of us. Such luck.

When Ellen went back to school in the fall and a teacher asked students to write two lies and a truth for an icebreaker game, no 56 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

one guessed that being blessed by the Pope was her truth.

Large crowds are a downside to summer travel, and the leaning tower of Pisa was jam-packed with people, all doing “hold up the tower” photos with their cell phones. We did them, too, of course.

Corny, but fun.

Our trip culminated with two days in Venice. Venice is very hot in late June and the hordes of tourists around St. Mark’s Square were almost oppressive by late afternoon. Thanks to a local guide we were able to find some quiet back streets that were a welcome respite.

On our last day in Venice we took a short boat ride to the tiny fishing island of Burano. Burano is known for its lace and for brightly painted houses. Legend holds that fishermen painted their houses in vivid colors so they would recognize them when they came home in the fog. Burano was far enough from the normal tourist traffic that the streets were almost empty, and walking among the colorful houses felt like being on a movie set. We ended our visit with a grand lunch in a small family café.

Rising airfares make overseas travel an expensive proposition, but we look at the time with our grandchildren as an investment in which we are creating memories that will last a lifetime. The return far exceeds the expense.

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Bridge to the Future Kansas City’s premier studio offers tournaments, events and lessons.

Article Elizabeth Rosenberger | Photography Lisa Harrison

B

ill Gates does it. Warren Buffet does it. You’ll find people from the ages of 20 to 100 who do it. It’s exciting, challenging, frustrating and humbling but once you catch the “Bridge Bug,” experts say playing the game is for a lifetime.

Lee Goodman, retired Kansas City attorney, avid bridge player and owner of KC Bridge Studio, bought the studio eight years ago from a long-time friend. Goodman says he wanted it to continue to be run well and also have a place to play and teach. Located at 7115 W. 95th in Overland Park, the studio hosts events, offers lessons and provides a place for tournament players – the more serious side of bridge.

In the game of bridge, there are two types of players – the social and the serious (tournament level). Social is what the vast majority of people play; gathered around a kitchen table with friends drinking coffee or a Saturday evening light entertainment with family.

For the serious player also known as Duplicate, bridge is an officially sanctioned game by the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL) and run by rules where winners are awarded master points which accumulate and indicate one’s level of proficiency at bridge.

“Duplicate, while very social, is more about the bridge,” says Goodman. “It’s for serious players who want to play against serious players and see how their ability matches up against the best.

Some people find this so intimidating and scary that they never want to play Duplicate; which is a shame because many of the national champions are the nicest people you ever want to meet.”

58 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

The KC Bridge Studio has several people who have won national championships – one of whom is ranked the 35th best bridge player in the U.S. One of Goodman’s students who took up the game five years ago went to Omaha last summer to play in a tournament and his team played against the team of Warren Buffett and Bill Gates. The team spent an hour playing with Buffett and Gates; talking and having a wonderful time.

“Even better, they beat the billionaires,” says Goodman.

“Where else but bridge can you have a similar experience?”

When Leawood friends and neighbors Marilyn Tampke, Julie Davis and Karen Leimer started taking lessons at the studio for fun, they soon realized it was a challenging game to learn.

“We first started going to Happy Hour before the lessons but we quit that in a hurry because we discovered bridge was hard enough to learn without having had a cocktail beforehand,” says Tampke.

Bridge is a trick-taking game using a standard 52-card deck.

Played by four players in two competing partnerships, all partners sit around a table. Millions of people play bridge worldwide in clubs, tournaments, online and with friends at home, making it one of the world's most popular card games.

Davis took lessons at the studio because she’d heard how challenging the game is, and how fun it is to play with groups of people. After getting over the stereotype that it was for ‘old’ people she was surprised how difficult it was to learn – even just for fun.

“Each hand is different, and each hand makes you think,” says Davis. “It's been fun and I can see myself playing this card game the rest of my life.”

Leimer joined her friends at the studio so they could learn to play. Although it was complicated, she likes the game when she’s able to make a play work out.

“It takes lots of study, practice and patience to learn how to play the game,” adds Leimer.

Research by the University of California at Berkeley has shown that regular bridge playing improves reasoning skills and long and short term memory. It’s one of the best ways to practice the “use it or lose it” advice for maintaining mental sharpness in older age.

Goodman analogizes it to golf. You have a great time playing with your buddies every week but it’s unlikely you’ll ever get a chance to play with or against Tiger Woods.

“In Kansas City, we have several people who have won national championships who play regularly at the Bridge Studio,” says Goodman. “You can play against someone just learning or who is more intermediate, and even against top experts who have won national championships.”

Although reasons may differ for those who choose to play the game, one thing is certain: it’s a game that will still be here for many future generations to come.

The next set of lessons for Absolute Beginners will start the first Monday evening in March. Check the website in mid-February at KCBridgeStudio.com for details.

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 59

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ver the past several decades, the public’s interest in estate jewelry has grown, rendering increased sales for jewelry stores across the nation. The history of each estate jewelry item is a secret that lies behind every setting.

Common misconceptions confuse the definition of estate, antique and vintage jewelry.

Each one of these are used in the jewelry industry and appear to be interchangeable but each have their own real interpretation.

By definition, estate jewelry is a term used to describe any previously owned jewelry. Estate jewelry is not necessarily old, nor always from the estate of the deceased, and can include a wide variety of quality of craftsmanship. It can include lower quality, inexpensive jewelry, to high-end, one-of-a-kind pieces.

To be considered antique, an item must be at least 100 years old. These items come in all design schemes and do not stick to one design era. Vintage jewelry reflects the most distinctive or attractive design aspects of certain time periods. These periods of style include: Georgian (1714-1830), Victorian (1837-1901), Edwardian (1901-1914), Arts and Crafts (1890-1914), Art Nouveau (1895-1915), Art Deco (1920-1930), and Retro (1940-1960).

With the boom of the industrial revolution, the art of handcrafting jewelry is a dying profession. Many jewelry items in vintage time periods are hand made and almost impossible for machinery to recreate, adding value to the most intricate of the detailed pieces.

Many people who are interested in estate jewelry items love a good bargain. Estate jewelry can be a fraction of the price of what a new piece of jewelry would cost at a retail jewelry store. These estate items are usually sold

60 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013 TDC Lfstyle Johnson Ad OCT.indd 1

11/4/13 3:20 PM

“as is” and should be in satisfactory condition.

To be able to identify jewelry pieces that one already has or are purchasing in a retail transaction, there are many things to look for. Buyers should check for dents, deep scratches, missing stones and overall quality before purchasing any piece of jewelry. This can be done by examination with the naked eye, or by using a jeweler’s loupe. Most stores will examine the jewelry items and make any necessary repairs before putting the item in their showcases for sale.

Many jewelry pieces are “stamped” with the type and purity of metal. Some typical gold purities will be 10K, 14K and 18K. Platinum may be stamped PT with a number 900 or 950 usually following explaining it’s purity.

Most sterling jewelry items will be stamped sterling or 925. A lot of people do not realize what they have when they clean out their or their loved ones’ jewelry box. Being able to identify your items will make you more confident in knowing what you have.

You may want to take your jewelry to a local retail store to get it appraised for insurance in case something happens. Since precious metals have gone up in value, many stores have popped up to jump on the gold rush bandwagon. Taking your jewelry to a trusted store that has been in business for a long time is essential. Meierotto Midwest Jewelers has been in the business since the 1960’s, specializing in new and estate jewelry. Whether you choose to sell your pieces or pass them down in your family, proper care and handling will ensure that these pieces remain in great condition.

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Capturing Wit, Wisdom and Family Traditions Local writer launches Forever Moments Article Lisa Allen | Photography Provided

A

nn Butenas was born to write. dialogue that took place. When stories are told verbally, they change Her first professional byline was at the ripe age of 12, and shift a little bit with each telling. If written down now, when peowhen she accomplished a feat unfamiliar to the majority of writ- ple still remember, we can lock them in and share them forever.” ers around the world: the very first piece she ever submitted was This drive to help others preserve their own legacy is what published nationally, and she was paid for her work. She jokes now drove Butenas to start Forever Moments. Through interviews that she was allowed to choose a $50 check or a puppet as pay- and research, Butenas captures the details that makes a story ment, and that in hindsight she should have picked the check. unique and puts a family’s history into a book that can be shared Through the years she continued to write even as she earned two for countless generations to come. master’s degrees and dabbled in careers as a luxury car salesper“Actual moments might pass, but the feelings can stay with us son, a radio show host and the owner of a nanny agency. She has forever if we record them,” says Butenas. She knows this from exbeen published hundreds upon hundreds of times and from coast perience; she’s kept journals since childhood, and has recorded to coast, but the words she cherishes most are those of her family. almost every moment of her three son’s lives—from birth to toMany know Butenas from her most recently published book day—in typewritten books she keeps organized by subject.

Koraspondence: Living Life to the Letter, a tribute devoted to the “Ever since I found out I was pregnant with my first son in 1994, I life lessons passed down by her grandmother Kora Hollinger. began keeping a daily diary and have done so ever since. I’ve been a Hollinger passed away on Janudocumenter since I was a kid, and ary 16, 2013; she was a month shy always felt like some day it would of 108 years old. The book has enbe important. I felt that even when joyed international exposure, no I was in grade school,” says Butenas. doubt because Butenas recorded She says her oldest son once the genuine, heartfelt messages laughed at her for keeping such Hollinger taught her family and meticulous notes, but after readfriends through the years. ing parts of his diary last year he “People say that a picture speaks a admitted he was glad she had writthousand words,” says Butenas, “but ten everything down. those are the highlight reels of life.

“He said ‘This is so cool! You Ann and her grandmother, Kora.

I want people to also remember the should do this for other people’” 62 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

There are so many best-selling stories that aren’t being told. It doesn’t matter if it’s read by one or 1,000 people; what matters is that the story shared touches a life outside the one to whom the story originally belongs.

she says. “I joke that their future wives will either love me or hate me, and that if any of them become famous their biographies are practically written! It’s fun to read, but I think it’s more important to recognize that even though we always say we’ll remember moments, we don’t. It has become my mission to capture these details about daily life, bring them alive and keep them accessible for future generations.”

Butenas has been practicing for this gig her entire life. She’s never afraid to ask someone a question, and loves listening to people’s stories.

“I’m wired to always be asking questions and I rarely pass up an opportunity to strike up a conversation,” says Butenas, “though sometimes I feel badly for the people behind me in line at Price Chopper when I start chatting up the cashier.”

Perhaps because so many people have thanked her for sharing the wit and wisdom of her grandmother, Butenas sees the need to continue a dialogue with family members as they continue to age. Through Forever Moments, Butenas gives everyone the opportunity to record the insight of the matriarchs and patriarchs of their own families into a keepsake that also serves as an encyclopedia of extraordinary lessons learned through seemingly ordinary moments.

“There is so much wisdom that goes unnoticed, and this can change that,” says Butenas.

Forever Moments is unique because it fills in the gaps that family portraits and snapshots miss. Whether it’s a memoir written about someone in retirement, or a family history that can be passed from one generation to the next, Butenas insists that there’s a bestseller inside of each life.

“There are so many best-selling stories that aren’t being told! It doesn’t matter if it’s read by one or 1,000 people; what matters is that the story shared touches a life outside the one to whom the story originally belongs.”

Butenas offers books of all sizes and has options perfect for gifts for grandparents, special occasions, anniversaries and custom designs. She is also working on an option to create unique booklets for weddings that share the bride and groom’s stories as individuals as well as their journey as a couple.

Learn more about Ann Butenas and Forever Moments at KorasHouse.com or call Ann at 913.526.5996.

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 63

Page Turners

Still Alice

Bank Midwest presents

Written by Lisa Genova Reviewed by Tracy Sullivan

I Special Holiday Events Nov 23

Union Station Holiday Lighting Ceremony with KFKF Kiss Under the Clock with 99.7 The Point’s Kelly Urich

Nov 29

Holiday Choir Sing Along with KFKF

Nov 30

Holiday Pirate Pancake Breakfast

DEC 14

Story Time with Mrs. Claus

DEC15

Holiday Dance Showcase Featuring Miller Marley School of Dance & Voice, Ibsen Dance Theatre, and Steppin Out - The Studio

DEC18-22

Kansas City Southern’s Holiday Express Train with Santa

DEC 21

Polar Express Pajama Party

DEC 31

Noon Year’s Eve in Science City

And DON’T MISS these unique Union Station attractions: See it before it sails!

Real Pirates, an exhibition from National Geographic

Enjoy the Holidays on the Region’s Biggest Screen!

Special movies playing at the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre

Catch a Live Holiday Production at City Stage!

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas presented by Theatre for Young America, Nov 26 - Dec 28

For complete and up-to-date details

UnionStation.org

Your Kansas City Ticket to the Holidays 64 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

n the eloquent, compelling novel Still Alice, author Lisa Genova gives an insightful glimpse into the world of dementia. It is rare for a book about Alzheimer’s to be told from the perspective of the person with the disease. Though Genova’s book is a work of fiction, the author, who holds a doctorate degree in neuroscience from Harvard University, describes Alice’s descent into Alzheimer’s so accurately (due to many years of research and interviews with patients who have the disease), that the story feels like a biography.

Genova’s story about Dr. Alice Howland, a 50-year-old woman diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s (i.e. before age 65), touchingly and honestly shows how the patient feels. Genova does a brilliant job of conveying the frustration, sadness and isolation that millions of people with the disease are going through. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease now affects more than 5 million people ages 65 and older, and approximately 200,000 people under the age of 65. Still Alice does a wonderful job of communicating information about the experience of Alzheimer's Disease.

Alice Howland is a woman in the prime of her life, at the height of her career. She works as a Harvard professor who gives brilliant lectures across the country and is highly respected in her field. She’s still madly in love with her husband John and a loving mother to their three grown children. At first, she attributes her forgetfulness and disorientation (such as getting lost a few blocks from her home) to menopause or perhaps a brain tumor. As her symptoms progress and she is finally diagnosed, Alice’s life begins to unravel. She takes the reader on a journey increasingly filled with muddled thoughts, lost words, repetitious behaviors and fear of the future.

Howland is forced to retire from her job at Harvard and becomes increasingly dependent on her husband and children to help her through daily routines and ensure her safety. As a formerly independent woman, she struggles with the knowledge that one day she will be completely dependent on others. Howland’s husband tries his best to be supportive, but his unease and distress about his wife’s condition is apparent. He, too, is a successful educator and scientist but doesn’t want to put his career on hold to be a full time caregiver to his wife.

Still Alice is a must read for anyone with a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s, or for those in the health care field who work with our aging population. Even those who are not touched by this cruel disease will find Genova’s story interesting and unforgettable.

Lisa Genova is the New York Times bestselling author of Left Neglected and her newest novel is Love Anthony.

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 65

Tech Today

Wallet Protects Against Identity Theft F

amilies preparing for holiday vacations often overlook important considerations regarding personal safety. Traveling is an open opportunity for identity thieves to strike, which is why you need to protect yourself by carrying your ID, money and credit/debit cards in a safe place. The new Zippo metal wallet offers top-notch protection. Lightweight and sleek, its stainless steel shell protects against RF-theft, also known as, wireless identity theft.

Identity thieves can now download a program from the internet onto their Smartphones that sends out radio signals that can steal information from the magnetic strips on your IDs and credit cards. This technology can penetrate your clothing, but cannot penetrate the wallet’s outer shell. The wallet is also reinforced with a stainless steel organizer in the middle, ensuring you can cruise airports and theme parks without worry.

A flexible polymer body makes the wallet lightweight, comfortable to carry, easy to open, and easy to use. At only 4.5" X 3” the wallet’s durability is guaranteed for life.

Zippo’s Metal Wallet can be purchased and personalized/engraved exclusively online at Things Remembered for $50 and can also be purchased on Zippo.com for $49.95.

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 67

Artist’s Palette

introducing the art of

Bruce Rehkop What brought you to Overland Park?

In 1998 I moved to Johnson County from St. Louis as part of a corporate move.

Several years later in 2002 I found the direction of my life was set on a different course while experiencing significant changes in my professional and personal life. It was during this timeframe I became involved in the remodeling industry and met and married my wife, Dorette.

Where did you study art?

One weekend about six years ago, my wife Dorette and I were checking out an estate sale and came across a tackle box full of oil paints. I bought the paints and began to try my hand at painting. As my wife was looking through some of my finished pieces she said, “I think you might be kind of good!” That Christmas she surprised me by registering me for an Introduction to Painting class at Johnson County Community College. That’s how it all started.

I began taking lessons from local renowned artist, Mark Webber, and have been studying under him for the past 3-4 years.

Where can people view your art?

What inspires you?

My work can be seen at First Art Gallery of Olathe, a local artist-operated cooperative.

Although it sounds like a cliché, nature inspires me. I try to capture on canvas the beauty found all around us.

I also really enjoy painting special pieces for clients …favorite vacation spots, special pets, alma maters, or even popular architectural landmarks from where they live. I just recently finished my first portrait of a friend’s children. I am always up for a challenge!

68 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

When is your next showing or exhibit?

Most of my commissioned pieces have come from word of mouth, home art shows and local art events.

Do you know a local artist we should spotlight?

Email Lisa@LifestylePubs.com for details.

AMBER_ROOFING_JUMBOPSTCRD.pdf

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Hot Spot

Nothing Bundt Cakes Combines the Warmth of Nostalgia with a Fresh, Modern Approach Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography 4 FT PHOTOZ

Welcome to Nothing Bundt Cakes! The exciting new store in Overland Park that truly defies the expression, “You can’t have your cake and eat it, too.” At this charming boutique, it is difficult to resist just grabbing a fork and digging in to the delectable cakes that await your eager palate! Fortunately, samples are always at the ready.

After one bite, you will see why this is the stuff that makes cupcakes jealous. You have been warned, too. One visit to Nothing Bundt Cakes is not enough. With nine tantalizing flavors and a variety of seasonal ones offered throughout the year, you may be hard-pressed to find a personal favorite.

However, the chocolate chocolate chip is proving to be the front-runner at our house. Following on the heels of that top seller are the red velvet and white chocolate raspberry flavors. They also regularly offer lemon, marble, pecan praline, carrot, white white chocolate and cinnamon swirl.

This fall, their pumpkin spice flavor has definitely been the center of attention.

This decidedly niche retail store is quickly attracting loads of fans, and it’s no surprise 70 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

that within a month of opening in mid-September, Nothing Bundt Cakes is already an award-winning business in the metro area.

“We recently won the ‘Most Likely to Gain My Business’ award from the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce,” notes Alex Edwards, who manages and operates the business with Kaitlyn Flynn. It’s easy to see why, too. These delicious and very moist Bundt cakes take us back to a time when our mothers and grandmothers filled their kitchens with the inviting aromas of similar mouth-watering cakes.

Nothing Bundt Cakes is not just about the cakes, however. This business is also about bringing people together.

“These cakes represent a nostalgic era when people gathered together to celebrate special moments in life,” expresses Edwards. “We are now rebranding that experience and sharing it with others.”

Upon crossing the threshold of the store, you are embraced by a warm and pleasant ambiance. Rows of eye-catching bundt cakes in various sizes line the case that is central to the store. Surrounding

the perimeter is a host of gifts and products that will delight and inspire: napkins, cake plates, spatulas, aprons, oven mitts, cookbooks and more. This place has “fun” drizzled all over it.

The cakes are available in a variety of sizes, including the ten-inch and eight-inch sizes, generously sized bundtlets (great to treat yourself!) and bundtinis, which are smaller treats that can be purchased by the dozen. Customers can choose from the display case; place an order via phone or order online. All of the cakes are made in-house with the finest premium ingredients, including fresh eggs, real butter and cream cheese. They are famous for their signature thick frosting petals that grace the top of each cake, made from smooth and delectable cream cheese and butter. For those who prefer a lighter touch, they also offer a delightful drizzle frosting. With an on-site bakery and experienced baker, cakes are always fresh and ready to savor.

These cakes are perfect for birthdays, retirement parties, anniversaries, holidays, thank yous, business gifts or “just because.”

“We are here to help people celebrate whatever occasion is at hand,” smiles Edwards.

And the prices are just as sweet as the cakes themselves, ranging from just $3.99 for the individual bundtlets to $28.50 for the ten-inch cakes—and a dozen bundtinis is only $16.50. For a small additional charge, cakes can be decorated from one of 50 designs for any and all occasions, from simple to extravagant. Decorating options are available for every size.

“It is so much fun to be a part of something that makes people happy,” says Edwards.

Nothing Bundt Cakes also provides delivery services within the metro area for a small delivery fee. Store hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. They are closed on Sundays.

Details

Nothing Bundt Cakes 13420 Metcalf Avenue (NW corner of the intersection) 913.239.0252 NothingBundtCakes.com

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 71

Locally Owned

Going The Extra Mile The Kim Yuille Real Estate team strives to ease the stress of buying and selling a home Article Katherine Bontrager Photography Susan Motley

K

imberly K. Yuille knows it’s the little things that matter. “No task is too big or too small,” says the head of the Kim Yuille Team at Reece and Nichols. And this isn’t mere lip service. Yuille has even gone so far as to shovel clients’ driveways, (once earning a new listing with an impressed passerby). With more than 10 years of experience, and earning best in customer satisfaction for the last five years running, Yuille is passionate about a job well done.

The mother of three (Travis, 25, Cathryn, 22, and Maggie, 16) lives in Lionsgate with her husband of 27 years, Jay. Negotiating the needs of her brood through the years means that Yuille understands the unique needs of growing families.

“In my view, to be really successful in this business, you have to look at it as more than a 9 to 5 job,” she says. “Too much can happen that can change someone’s circumstances quickly if you don’t react in a timely manner. I take every transaction very seriously and hope to retain relationships well past the deal. I think what truly sets me apart from other agents is the philosophy of doing whatever it takes. If someone is out of town and the house has a showing, then I go over and get it ready. You never know, that showing could be the one!”

The Kim Yuille Team also stages every house it lists and has professional pictures taken—at the team’s cost. Carefully consid72 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

ering so many details requires a large team effort, and Yuille has a dynamic group upon which she relies.

“Gina Gialde came from New Homes, and she is so knowledgeable and an amazing person to work with,” Yuille says. “Deanna Shull came from the corporate world and is so polished and professional. She goes the extra mile on everything she does. Cathy Mashburn just joined us as my assistant. She’s a rock star and knows everything about Real Estate. And we have a new associate starting soon, Courtney Austin. She was a client, and we just clicked. She will be amazing.”

Yuille’s team knows that their leader comes from a long history of hard-working, honest entrepreneurs—and that those standards are ingrained in every interaction the group undertakes.

“My grandmother was in Real Estate a long time ago,” Yuille says.

“Customer service was the cornerstone of everything she did. She was the best and had a tremendous following. She cared and everyone around her knew it!”

Everyone in the Yuille group knows that they’re held up to the same high standards. “By the time a sale or a purchase has come to an end, we have all, in some way, become a part of each other’s lives,” Shull says. “For us, it’s not just a business transaction; we feel that it’s a privilege to be a part of one of the most important and biggest transitions a person or family can make in their lives.”

Many clients can attest that Yuille and her team made the process of buying and selling a home more than just a business transaction.

Scott and Linda Sylvester were so impressed with Yuille that they’ve turned to her time and time again for their real-estate needs.

“Eight years ago we contracted with Kim to sell our home in Brookside,” Scott says. “It sold in one week! We were most impressed and decided that the next time we moved we would have Kim represent us. So when it came time for us to sell our home in Overland Park, we called Kim. She helped us find competent and reasonably priced people to do painting and electrical work. But the most remarkable thing she accomplished was selling our home in just one day at a full price offer! She was there for inspection, closing, and she was there to help out whenever we needed something done.”

The Sylvesters credit Yuille with taking away much of the worry and stress associated with selling their home. “She’s not only a very competent and experienced agent, but she is just a super individual who has such a positive and helpful attitude.”

That giving and determined attitude has also benefited the likes of the Kansas City Young Matrons Organization, the Kansas City Zoo, Lyric Opera, St. Mary’s Food Kitchen, and many other local charities and organizations, to which she also gives her time and talent. As it turns out, all those little things amount to a whole lot to the community at large.

The Kim Yuille Team says the market is rebounding and it’s a great time to sell—there’s low inventory and January remains one of the biggest relocation buying months out of the year. For more information, call 913.558.9533 or visit KimsKeyToKC.com.

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 73

s e m o C e r e H S U A L C SANTA Arriving November 29th Straight from the North Pole to Town Center Plaza

Photos with Santa Santa arrives at Town Center Plaza on Friday, November 29! Visit Santa on the Roe Avenue side of the Center next door to Omaha Steaks daily through December 23.

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Johnson County Properties neighborhood

original list

list price

sold $$

Mission Hills

$3,700,000

$2,550,000

$2,475,000

97%

1333

7

5.1

Mission Hills

Other

$2,700,000

$2,500,000

$2,200,000

88%

440

4

5.2

Overland Park

Maple Valley Farm

$2,000,000

$2,000,000

$1,925,000

96%

26

6

6.3

Stilwell

Indian Hills

$2,195,000

$1,995,000

$1,816,150

91%

187

5

5.3

Mission Hills

Hallbrook

$1,990,000

$1,990,000

$1,760,000

88%

190

5

5.3

Leawood

Tuscany Reserve

$1,285,000

$1,095,000

$1,039,000

94%

202

3

3.3

Leawood

Highlands Creek

$1,035,000

$1,035,000

$1,015,000

98%

80

5

6.1

Leawood

Deer Creek

$1,195,000

$1,099,000

$955,000

86%

334

5

5.3

Overland Park

Highlands Creek

$1,150,000

$995,000

$950,000

95%

40

4

4.1

Leawood

Pavilions

$999,000

$975,000

$895,000

91%

227

5

5.2

Leawood

The Woods Villas

$939,000

$939,000

$885,000

94%

63

4

4.2

Leawood

$1,085,000

$985,000

$860,000

87%

150

5

4.2

Mission Hills

Highlands Creek

$789,000

$789,000

$740,000

93%

102

5

4.1

Leawood

Switzer Lake Estates

$795,000

$765,000

$719,000

93%

82

4

4.1

Overland Park

Royse

$760,000

$750,000

$690,000

92%

104

6

7.2

Leawood

Tuscany Reserve

$769,000

$739,000

$680,000

92%

260

4

4

Leawood

Brookhighland

$695,000

$679,000

$650,000

95%

102

4

5.1

Overland Park

Glynmor

$659,000

$649,000

$625,000

96%

45

4

3.1

Overland Park

Estates of Glen Eagles

$619,000

$619,000

$600,000

96%

36

5

4.1

Overland Park

Leawood Forest Estates

$695,000

$639,500

$593,000

92%

71

4

4.2

Leawood

Town & Country

$560,000

$560,000

$560,000

100%

1

4

3.1

Prairie Village

Normandy Square

$585,000

$565,000

$544,400

96%

66

5

3.1

Prairie Village

Fairway

$583,000

$565,000

$541,250

95%

68

5

3.1

Prairie Village

Indian Hills

%sp to lp dom* bdrms

ba

city

MLS Statistics from 9/1/2013-9/30/2013

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 75

Lifestyle Calendar

December December 4-6

December 6

62nd Annual Kappa Homes Tour

Homemade Gingerbread Decoration

Kansas City

Kansas City

Four exceptional homes will be on display, beautifully decorated for the holidays by local floral designers. Proceeds from this year’s tour will benefit the Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CCVI), the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA) and the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation.

Please visit KappaHomesTour.com for details.

At L’Ecole Culinaire, come decorate from 6-8 p.m. one already assembled gingerbread house to take home along with a few gingerbread cookies as well. $45.

For more information or to sign up, call 866.205.2521. L'Ecole Culinaire is located at 310 Ward Parkway.

December 5

December 7, 14, 21 Santa & Me Saturdays

Mantels & Martinis

Paradise Park

New Longview

Visit with Santa at Paradise Park for free! Take your own pictures, enjoy a “holly-day” of play.

Don’t forget to visit Santa’s Studio and make your Christmas gift list. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Join Mantles and Martinis for an evening of holiday decor, and even more. Stroll the beautiful New Longview neighborhood and help raise money for Special Olympics and New Longview Foundation. Tickets $40. MantelsAndMartinis.com or find them on Facebook.

December 5-22 A Spectacular Christmas Crown Center

Now in its 8th year, A Spectacular Christmas has become known for fine vocals, tight harmonies and sharp arrangements, but the show also has a heartfelt and sentimental side, too. The entire experience will certainly move you and will remind you of the true spirit of Christmas. Rated PG. Tickets $10$35. MTHKC.com or 816.545.6000.

December 6 Nutcracker Ball Bartle Hall

Celebrate the holiday season with cocktails, dinner and dancing at the Nutcracker Ball. Formerly the Ballet Ball, this can’t-miss event is one of Kansas City’s best events of the year. Proceeds benefit Kansas City Ballet and Kansas City Ballet School. 816.926.0505 76 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

December 14 Story Time with Mrs. Claus Union Station

Story Time with Mrs. Claus in City Stage.

Event is free but seating is limited so reservations are recommended. Sign up through Union Station’s box office. UnionStation.org.

December 14 Father Christmas Visits Alexander Majors House Kansas City

Father Christmas himself will be at the Majors House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children will visit with Father Christmas and participate in hands-on arts and craft activities, play parlor games, and hear stories from professional storytellers. Tickets are $10 per child and free for adults. 816.444.1858 or visit WornallHouse.org. Advance registrations and payment is required.

December 10 Winter Solstice Torch Lit Hike Independence

Just at dusk, 5-6:30 PM, enjoy the beginning of winter with a walk along a beautiful torchlit path. Bring the camera, have your photo taken in an ice sleigh, see ice sculptures, view the night sky with telescopes and see a live bald eagle. Dress warmly. Hot cocoa served by the outdoor fire. 816.325.7115 or IndependenceMO.org/ParksAndRec. Admission is free. George Owens Nature Park, 1601 S. Speck Road.

December 13-15 Barn Players 6th Annual Play Festival Mission

At the Barn Players Theatre, 6219 Martway. The Festival features six original plays, each 10-minutes in length, by local playwrights. All six plays are presented at each performance. Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 and Sunday matinee at 2 o’clock. Tickets are $10 each and may be ordered by calling 800.838.3006, at TheBarnPlayers.com, or at box office.

December 18-22 KC Southern’s Holiday Express Train with Santa Union Station

Board the train, visit with Santa and his elves and tour the inside of three cars of the festive six-car train. Led by KCS’ Southern Belle, the Holiday Express train includes a smiling tank car “Rudy”; a flatcar carrying Santa’s sleigh, reindeer and a miniature village; a ginger bread boxcar; a newly remodeled elves’ workshop; the reindeer stable; and a little red caboose.

Each car is dressed in lights. UnionStation.org.

December 20 Cooking Class: Holiday Sauces Kansas City

From Gravies to Holandaise, L’Ecole Culinaire chefs will have you ready for the Holidays. $55 From 6-9 p.m. For more information or to sign up, call 866.205.2521. L'Ecole Culinaire is located at 310 Ward Parkway.

Lifestyle Calendar

December 20-21 Live Nativity Drive Through Olathe

View a live Nativity scene presented by Culture House. From 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 14808 W 117th St, Olathe.

December 28

featuring entertainment by Cherry Bomb and DJ Ron. Elegant buffet, great entertainment, champagne toast at midnight. For information and ticket sales visit VisionsKC.com/Upcoming_Events.html or call 816.841.2361.

Through January 1 Martin City Theater Reindeer play

Operation Jack KC Run/Walk in the Snow

Overland Park

Shawnee

Rudolph and his gang of “green” deer teach Santa how easy it is to be green, even though his favorite color is red. This original musical provides just the perfect amount of zaniness. Following is the world famous water glass symphony. This year the performers will play more than 60 water glasses blind-folded.

913.642.7576 or MartinCityMelodrama.org.

The Operation Jack KC Run/Walk in the Snow is back for 2013! Join us for a marathon, half marathon, 5K, or relay race, all benefitting Autism Society - The Heartland (80%) and Train 4 Autism (20%).

Each distance (5K, half marathon, full marathon) will be an out-andback. The start/finish line will be near the Theatre in the Park at Shawnee Mission Park. OPJackMarathon.Kintera.org

December 31

All month Photo Exhibit Celebrating Picasso

Noon Year’s Eve at Science City

Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

Kansas City

Kansas City native David Douglas Duncan is one of the 20th century's greatest photojournalists. His work has been featured in National Geographic, Life and the Saturday Evening Post magazines, and he has published 26 books. View his uniquely intimate portrait series of Pablo Picasso, with whom he began a friendship in 1956.

A family-friendly way to ring in the new year with activities at Science City during the day. UnionStation.org.

December 31 Champagne Chic New Year’s Eve The View at Briarcliff

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December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 77

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Cottonwood Canyon (913) 492-4444 cottonwoodcanyon.info

Auto Motor Plex Kansas City (913) 489-7223 automotorplexkc.com Santa Fe Tow Service (913) 894-5201 santafetowservice.com Stanley Tire & Automotive (913) 239-8473 stanleytire.com

Charities & Fundraisers City Union Mission 816-474-9380 www.cityunionmission.org

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Fashion & Accessories Meierotto Midwest Jewelers (816) 453-1111 mjewelry.com

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78 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Design Connection Inc. (913) 851-8776 designconnectioninc.com Fireplace & Bar-B-Q Center (913) 383-2286 fireplacecenterkc.com Frontier Furniture, LLC (913) 897-8995 frontierfurniturellc.com

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Home Services Amber Roofing (816) 994-2556 amberroofingkc.com Braden Roofing (913) 341-0200 bradenroofing.com Christian Brothers Roofing (816) 453-7663 453roof.com Deco-Crete (816) 682-8943 KC Wood (913) 422-3320 kcwood.com LuLu & Mimi's Cleaning (913) 649-6022 luluandmimis.com Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com North Kansas City Iron & Metal (816) 471-3244 northkansascityiron.com Pileggi & Reid Painting (913) 558-5204 prpainting.net We Do Windows (913) 631-2323 wedowindowskc.net

Marketing Services WYSIWYG Marketing (816) 759-2845 wysiwygmarketing.com

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PMMC Johnson Cty Lifestyle Dec 2013 December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 79

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Aesthetistry Med Spa (913) 491-9777 After Hours Pediatrics (913) 825-4700 after-hourspediatrics.com Community Blood Centers (816) 753-4040 savealifenow.org KC Body Contouring/ Vein Centers for Excellence of KC (913) 451-8346 kcbodycontouring.com Menorah Medical Center (913) 236-8003 midwestbreast.com Midwest Restorative Health (913) 850-5700 restorative-health.com Overland Park Regional Medical Center (913) 541-5000 oprmc.com

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can-am.brp.com ©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. †All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP USA, Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix.

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Real Estate Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes (913) 345-8877 goldsteinteam.com Home Rental Services (913) 469-6633 home4rent.com RE/MAX Heartland 360 Partners (816) 665-4228 lotawanalakehomes.com The Communities at River Ridge (816) 898-5477 riverridgeks.com The Kim Yuille Team (913) 558-9533 kimskeytokc.com West USA - Sharon Sigman (913) 381-6794 homesinkansascity.com

Restaurants, Food & Beverage Best Regards Bakery (913) 912-7238 makethemsmile.com Edible Arrangements (913) 498-8585 ediblearrangements.com The Tasteful Olive (913) 649-7900 thetastefulolive.com

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Shopping Centers Town Center Plaza (913) 498-1111 towncenterplaza.com

Specialty Shops Highwoods Properties (816) 753-0100 countryclubplaza.com Mary Kay Cosmetics (913) 396-1579 marykay.com/risingstar Mrs. Golf (816) 524-2330 mrs-golf.com Pen Place (816) 474-7500 penplace.com The Euro Pottery Shop (913) 680-0806 europottery.com Zounds Hearing Aid Store (913) 800-5093 zoundshearing.com

December 2013 | Johnson County Lifestyle 81

Parting Thoughts

The Brotherhood of the Traveling Santa Suit Article Denise Snodell

F

amily holiday traditions are typically cozy and sweet affairs.

Then, there’s my clan. A random thing happens and it gets much applause. Boom, an annual custom begins. Such is the true story of the Brotherhood of the Traveling Santa Suit.

My friends, it’s time to gather ‘round the crackling space heater, grab some lukewarm cocoa, and listen to my tale.

The random spark for this particular tradition occurred several years ago. I found myself trudging through a store on a cold, January day when my weary eyes landed on an after-Christmas clearance display. The last thing I needed, though, was more hall-decking stuff. It was time to bough out of the holly hoarding business.

Then, it happened. A large box with the words “Deluxe Santa Suit” caught my eye. And deluxe it was, with good, thick red and white fabric, shiny boots, plus all the accessories down to the long white beard. It was a suit even the pickiest mall Santa would regift to himself. As I held the box in my hands, a warm fire started up in my belly. My wallet began to burn.

But it didn’t make sense. There was no reason for my husband to Kris Kringle it up on future Christmas Eves. Who would dig the jolliness? We had newly minted teenagers. Even our nieces and nephews were beyond believing. This was a purchase I should have made a dozen years earlier, when the kids would have gone bonkers over personal Santa visits. That sled had sailed.

Yet somewhere in my mind I heard Clarence ringing a bell. Life should be wonderful at all stages. And honestly, I had always eyed deluxe Santa suits. Here was one, in my hands, at 50 percent off.

It was easy to talk myself into the purchase. Somehow, I knew the merry uniform would come in handy.

82 Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2013

Fast forward eleven months. My parents were visiting for the holidays. They are throwback travelers, which is a euphemism for you can’t get my mom on a plane. They ride the Polar Express, commonly known as Amtrak. It’s always a big deal when they arrive, because it takes two days for them to “land.” Somewhere along the line I got in the habit of greeting my folks with blinking antlers on my head. A cornball mini-tradition, yes, but always the least I could do for a festive greeting.

So the first holiday season after I bought “the suit,” I went digging for the old antlers, which happened to be in the same storage bin as Santa’s never-worn duds. Bingo! My first born, who had hit six feet that year, drew the short stick. He would surprise his grandparents by greeting them as the jolly one. Did I mention he was suddenly coming down with a bug? And the train was late?

And he was miserable? No worries, Santa’s apprentice was still a big hit with the crowd at Union Station, and eventually Grandma and Grandpa, because the beard was so lush it hid his inner misery. A tradition was born.

By the following Christmas visit, our youngest son had shot up to regulation Santa height. He was pumped, but, so were the storm clouds on grandparent arrival day. Once we reached the station parking lot, we were pummeled with horizontal rain and sleet.

Pummeled! We learned, minus the belt and boots, the special suit was not waterproof. This time, Santa was droopy on the outside.

Sick Santa. Wet Santa. I don’t know what kind of St. Nick we’ll have next, but I’m sure the memory will be just as deluxe.

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