Johnson County Lifestyle March 2014

Johnson County march 2014

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Inspired

Arts by the

Lessons From CLOD KC’s Monuments Men Listen to Your Mother Local Women are Pretty. Funny.

The Business of Giving Back As we proceed into 2014, we look forward to finding more ways to give back. One new way was brought to us by the KC Business magazine and their support of women in business. We applaud their efforts, and after working with them, we thought how nice it would be if we found a way to encourage young women to aspire to the same levels of success and leadership of the women recognized by KC Business magazine. So they contacted Christo Rey School and for the last two years we have given back in the form of a scholarship to the “most influential women to be� which allows us to give to a student who needs the funds to further their education.

Wow, how is that for thinking outside the box and finding a way to make something very valuable happen?

As a result of finding this opportunity, we now have been introduced to another business leaders group, called Rising Stars, and we asked for the same structure and found that we could again develop a scholarship for a deserving young person who wants the chance to Louis Faller General Manager

reach her potential but just needed a little help along the way to reach her goals. How rewarding this has become to give back and who knows we may be helping our future CEO!

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Simple. You’d start with a foundation of highly-trained exper ts from Shawnee Mission Medical Center — nearly 700 physicians in 50 specialties – from cancer and heart care to robotic surgery and women’s health – all dedicated to delivering the highest quality health care with genuine compassion. You’d invest in the latest medical technology. You’d make patient safety and satisfaction your top priorities. And you’d offer the most wide-ranging schedule of wellness classes anywhere in this community.

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Editor's Letter

P

The Beauty Behind the Art

lease don’t panic–Lisa Harrison is still the eminent editor around here. She graciously invited me to share this space because she knows I love the arts. My name is a little further down the masthead: It’s been a privilege to work as her assistant editor, a writer, and now as national copy editor for all of our magazines.

The daughter of a music composer/conductor/ teacher/performer, and a concert violinist, I grew up in a home immersed in music.

From the time I was born, my dad’s compositions enriched my life. He wrote symphonies from his head to the paper using a calligraphy pen. He was inspired by poets like John Donne, and by his faith, writing a mass for his master’s dissertation.

I had no idea how special that environment was until becoming a parent myself.

I love music, too, but most of my heroes are the painters. Their journeys of persevering and overcoming to create visual beauty inspire me. When I heard that Picasso struggled in math because he kept seeing faces in numbers, I felt less bad about my own problems with them. I find kinship in Van Gogh’s struggle with depression. In a class at Artichokes, Kansas City artist Suze Ford freed me from perfectionism to just paint, and thus live. My pastor, Dan Wilburn, is an artist, too, who continually communicates that being an artist is a way of life, not a thing you do.

march 2014 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 chief sales officer Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch | MStauch@LifestylePubs.com Troy Coup | TCoup@LifestylePubs.com Mike Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com advertising director | Mike Baugher production director | Christina Sandberg ad coordinator | Cyndi Vreeland regional art director | Sara Minor executive assistant | Lori Cunningham

For this reason, Leawood artist Jeff Hanson’s story captured me, and I hope will you, too. Writer Katherine Bontrager’s own artful way with words conveys beautifully the message of Jeff’s utterly inspiring life. (Painting a Most Vibrant Future, p. 32) Likewise, the passion for the arts held by the Monuments Men in World War II is compelling. They risked their lives to protect European artwork held captive by the Nazis in World War II. (Real-Life Monuments Men Part of Nelson-Atkins History, p. 39).

These arts issues are among our favorite to create for you. We may live in the Midwest, but our home is rich with culture and creativity. Our staff is pleased to share with you the stories behind the beauty.

| JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com |

it director | Randy Aufderheide

Proverbs 3:5-6 Contact us at:

join us

discovered the healing power of art on page 22.

application architect | Michael O'Connell

by Community ™

Kendra Gensemer Mathewson, Assistant Editor KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com

Photography by Susan Motley.

contributing photographers 4 Ft. Photoz, Lisa Gartland, Parker Harrison, Susan Motley, Tom Strongman, New Friends Photography

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

Inspired by our community,

on the cover Read about how Kirsten McGammon

contributing writers Lisa Allen, Katherine Bontrager, Ann Butenas, Lauren Collinsworth Clafflin, Lisa Gartland, Judy Harper Goppert, Susan Motley, Rebecca Murphy, Anne Potter Russ, Tom Strongman

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 913.599.4300 | JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com Johnson County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Johnson County’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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March 2014

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Departments 12

Good Times

16

Around Town

22

Your Neighbor

26

Artist's Palette

27

Page Turners

28

Local Limelight

38

Hometown Heroes

42 Open House 44 Worship Time 46 Now Open 48 Giving Back

32 Painting a Most Vibrant Future

A frightening diagnosis led Jeff Hanson and his family to create

a most colorful future.

Parent’s Corner

56

Home Matters

57

Animal Tracks

59

Sold Properties

60 Driver's Notebook 62

36 The Healing Power of Art

52

Lifestyle Calendar

66 Parting Thoughts

Area museum evolves to meet the needs of the community.

22

36

28

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Good Times

ALS Association Honors Retiring Executive Director

Beckie Cooper, Executive Director of the ALS Association Keith Worthington Chapter, was recently honored at a retirement party hosted by George and Leslie Brett. It was attended by more than a hundred friends, family members and supporters.

Juliet Marsat, Emily Jennings, Greg Steinberg and Jean Haley.

Doug Dee with Jim & Linda Miller.

Nancy Creasy, Beckie Cooper and Jay Daugherty lead the crowd with a toast.

Nancy Creasy and Terry Betzelberger.

Beckie Cooper thanks George Brett for his dedication over the years.

Steven and Susan St. John.

DONNA TILDEN, MBA, CHFC Financial Advisor • Personal & Business Financial Planning • Retirement Planning • Mutual Funds

• Education Funding • Insurance Planning • Estate Planning

Insurance products are offered through insurance companies with which Waddell & Reed has sales arrangements.

4000 W. 114th St., Suite 310 Leawood, KS 66211 913-491-9202 www.donnatilden.wrfa.com Waddell & Reed, Inc. 12 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

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Hairspray!

Notre Dame de Sion High School’s production of Hairspray sold out Avila University’s Goppert Theatre for three performances in late January.

Corny Collins (Dominic Burkart) and his dancers sing “It’s Hairspray.”

Sydney Daniels, Clinton Morris and Aree Tomes (chorus) break out in song and dance during detention.

Anna Redmond (Penny Pingleton) is smitten with love interest Seaweed Stubbs, played by Ralvell Rogers II.

Tracy Turnblad, (Samantha Ruiz) and Link Larkin, (Parker Russell) during a dream sequence.

Tracy (Sam Ruiz) leads a rally through the streets to encourage integration on the Corny Collins Show.

Natalie Sopyla, in her role as Prudy Pingleton, grabs at daughter Penny's hair.

Penny was played by Anna Redmond.

Emile Gragg, Angela Griffin, Gunnar Gregory, Zoë Mulkey, Madison Masilionis, Joseph Pierce, Lena Kincaid, Mary Sizemore, Cody Siemiatkowski

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 13

Good Times

10th Annual Martin Luther King Legacy and Scholarship Award Dinner

This Olathe NAACP event honors citizens whose work emulates the doctrine of Martin Luther King. This year’s Legacy Award recipient is Ralph Reid, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at Sprint. Student scholarship winners also read their essays.

Many area police officers attened the event

Morris Campbell led the group in the pledge of allegiance

Mike Copeland, Carl Gerlach & Vonnaye Mils

Henry Lyons & Councilman Allan Gray

Leawood Mayor Peggy Dunn and Henry Lyons

OlatheNAACP

Many area mayors attended the event

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Foundation Supports Grandparents Raising their Grandchildren

Kansas City Chief Dwayne Bowe recently gathered friends and family at the new Hendrick Lexus dealership to support his foundation, which helps grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

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March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 15

Around Town AREA INSURANCE MAN IS MAKING MOVIES The founder and CEO of a fast-growing Leawood insurance company, Philip Sarnecki can now add movie producer to his resume.

In addition to his 20 years experience in the insurance business, Sarnecki is now getting experience in the entertainment industry through a company he co-owns called Rebel Pilgrim Productions. He has served as executive producer for two movies.

Their latest release was a romantic comedy called A Strange Brand of Happy, featuring two Grammy Award-winning actresses: Rebecca St. James and Shirley Jones. It was shown at theaters in about 50 cities across the United States last fall, including Kansas City.

The movie was recently released on DVD and is now available in many retail stores, including Walmart. He also produced a comedy called Hitting The Nuts, released in 2010. The two movies have won awards at film festivals in Cincinnati, Louisville and Las Vegas.

The company has a number of projects in the works, including Hope Bridge scheduled for release this summer.

FIRST FRIDAYS OPPORTUNITY CLOSE TO HOME You don’t have to go all the way to the Crossroads to experience art on the first Friday of the month. The Rice Gallery of Fine Art at 119th and Roe in Hawthorne Plaza is hosting a First Friday series (March 7, April 4, May 2).

Experience new work, new ideas and the new space for the gallery. TheRiceGallery.com

HAVE YOU VISITED THE NERMAN? The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art is located on the campus of Johnson County Community College in Overland Park and is part of the JCCC’s major offering for cultural arts. It’s one of our local treasures.

Free guided tours are led by docent volunteers who have completed a comprehensive training program through the museum. Interactive art appreciation tours are designed to facilitate understanding of contemporary art in our exhibitions and in the permanent collection on view throughout campus. Tours are available for college classes, community groups 16 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

and school groups with 5-50 individuals, starting with kindergarten.

Tours are 1-hour long and cover approximately 10 works of art. They offer thematic tours throughout the year, including Introduction to Contemporary Art, Contemporary American Indian Art. For more information, visit NermanMuseum.org.

few Saturdays away from the Market opening.

The very popular Overland Park Market officially kicks off on April 12, 6:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

In addition to fresh and local fruits and veggies, the market will feature plants for your garden, flowers, cheese, milk, local meat, honey, all kinds of baked goods, jams, salsas, pesto, pasta, and much more.

DONATION TO SUPPORT STEM EDUCATION

BROOKWOOD’S ANNUAL MATH AND SCIENCE NIGHT Brookwood Elementary recently held its annual Math and Science Night much to the enjoyment of the Brookwood community. Students and parents strolled the halls taking in the presentations and interactive programs that encourage a lifelong love of math and science for students. Exhibitors this year included David Nieves and his “Reptiles Up Close” demonstration, Star Lab (indoor planetarium), Mad Science and Leawood Police fingerprinting among many others. New this year was a special exhibit from Operation Wildlife, a non-profit organization that rescues and adopts injured wild birds of prey.

Rockhurst University Science students led math, science, biology and biochemistry interactive exhibits along with the Shawnee Mission South Raider Researchers and Robotics Teams, and live animal petting brought by the Shawnee Mission East students.

FARMERS’ MARKET UPDATE For those dreaming of warmer weather, longer days, and getting out to the Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings, we are just a

Shawnee Mission Superintendent Jim Hinson recently announced that a $100,000 donation would support Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) initiatives in the district. The generous donation made by board of education member Dr. Craig Denny and his wife, Terry, will establish the Denny Family Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Fund through the Education Foundation to support new instructional initiatives, professional development to support teachers in STEM-focused areas, opportunities for students to conduct specialized research, curriculum development, and specialized equipment.

“Terry and I graduated from Iowa State University of Science and Technology, where Terry earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and I earned Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Engineering,” said Denny. “We have benefitted from our science-based education and we believe our support of STEM education throughout Shawnee Mission will help spark the interest of current and future students to pursue education and careers in engineering, science and many other technical fields yet to be discovered.”

Craig has served on the Board of Education since 1997, performing as president for four terms and vice-president twice. Terry worked in the district from 1992 until retiring in 2008, serving first at Rising Star Elementary School and later at Apache Elementary School. The Denny’s three daughters graduated from Shawnee Mission West.

AREA STUDENTS NAMED PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR CANDIDATES The United States Presidential Scholars Program is one of the most distinguished honors given to graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected based on academic achievement, personal charac-

Luke Chen, Daniel O’Toole and Alec Newport.

Blue Valley North: Emmaline Lorenzo, Harichandana Karne, Nina Singh and Michael Zhou.

Blue Valley Northwest: Mary Beaman, Jack Chen and Veronica McKinny.

Blue Valley Southwest: Katherine Super.

Blue Valley West: Brianna Jackson and Olivia Zhao.

Shawnee Mission East: Ada Throckmorton, Xiao Lu, Robert Simpson, Kevin Xu and Utsa Ramaswami Shawnee Mission North: Goldia Kiteck Shawnee Mission South: Virginia Friedrich Shawnee Mission West: Hannah Wilhelm Blue Valley High:

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When Overland Park mom Lori Allen saw a need for a specific toy and she couldn’t find one on the shelves of local toy stores, she set out to design what she was looking for herself. The exciting, new, recordable children’s plush toy, The Original BedBug, is now available. The soft, cuddly toy holds three personalized re-recordable voice messages and comforts kids with special messages. It is easy to use and record and does not require an internet connection or technical knowledge.

The plush is made of high quality fabric and silky satin feet.

Third Life, Inc., the maker of the Original BedBug, is located in Overland Park. The response to the BedBug has been overwhelming.

“We have received emails from people around the country telling us how much they enjoy this product,” she says. Currently the BedBug is available at The Learning Tree, Brookside Toy and the MommyShop or online at OriginalBedBug.com.

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teristics, leadership and service activities, and an analysis of an application essay. These students are now invited to apply to be among the 121 Presidential Scholars who will be honored in Washington, D.C. this June. This year’s candidates from Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission high schools are:

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March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 17

Around Town “Grandparents love it because you don’t have to be tech savvy to record or operate it”, says Allen. “Moms have told us that bedtime has become a breeze now that their children stay in bed with the Bedbug to hug. One press of the button is all it takes as they drift off to sleep.”

UNDERGROUND “Top 10 of the Year!”

- Kansas City Star “Top 10 of the Decade!”

- The Independent “...best dance theater ever to hit the K.C. stage!”

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Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts For tickets call the Kauffman Center (816) 994-7222 or

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18 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

NEW EVENT SPACE TO OPEN IN LEAWOOD Event planners and brides-to-be from all over Johnson County are taking notice of the stunning new event space located on the northwest corner of 135th and Roe. Scheduled to open May 1, The Venue in Leawood has been completely renovated and will be managed by the same people who brought us Mio Pizzeria and Mio Trattoria. It is an upscale event center with seating capacity of up to 300 guests making it the ideal location for corporate meetings, private parties and weddings.

An elegant patio, outdoor fireplace and two distinct multipurpose rooms make the space appealing both inside and out.

For details or to schedule a tour, contact Carl Brandt, the director of operations, at 913.681.8368 or visit them online at TheVenueInLeawood.com.

JOHNSON COUNTY GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE The residents of Johnson County now have an easier-to-navigate website that works as well on their smart phones and tablets as it does on their computers. Johnson County Government has launched a redesigned website at JOCOGov.org. This marks the first time the County has redesigned its site.

Johnson County Government reorganized its website based on resident feedback gathered from the most recent citizen survey, focus groups and usability testing. Based on resident input, the new website unifies most of its department and agency websites into a single platform with a common design and navigation style. The website also has a new intuitive directory listing of more than 400 of the County’s most popular services.

“Our primary goal is to ensure residents have easy access to information about all County services,” says County Manager Hannes Zacharias. “We want to communicate with residents as effectively and transparently as possible. We know what an important resource

our website is and we’ve redesigned it with residents in mind every step of the way.”

STARLIGHT SEASON LINEUP Starlight Theatre has been a Kansas City landmark since the 1950’s. Over the years the venue has brought the city hundreds of spectacular Broadway shows, amazing concerts and wonderful community outreach programs. It’s always exciting when Starlight reveals their show season for the year. The offerings for 2014 certainly entice a season ticket purchase: Wizard Of Oz - June 10-15 We Will Rock You - June 17-22 Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - July 8-13 The Sound Of Music - July 25-31 Blue Man Group - September 9-14 Order tickets online at KCStarlight.com, by phone at 816.363.7827 or in person at the Starlight Box Office Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

KC SUPERSTAR PRELIM AUDITIONS COMING SOON Attention high school singers! YOU could be chosen as KC’s next singing super star!

Auditions for 2014 KC SuperStar, a competition to select the best high school singer in the metro area, are set for April 6 and 13.

This year both rounds of preliminary auditions will take place from 1-5 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center (5801 W. 115th St., in Overland Park). Judges for the prelims are area industry professionals Krista Blackwood, Whitney Smith and Martha Risser.

Now in its fifth year, KC SuperStar is an ‘American Idol’ style competition open to any high school student in the metro area.

KC SuperStar will award a $7,500 scholarship to the best high school singer in the area who is selected through auditions.

There is no cost to participate, but pre-registration is recommended. To register, visit KCSuperStar.com or Facebook. com/KCSuperStar. KC SuperStar’s second place winner will receive $2,500; third place $1,500; fourth place-$1,000 and all other finalists will receive $500 scholarships.

Up to 25 performers will be selected to compete in the KC SuperStar semifinals in June.

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 19

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Your Neighbor

Local Artist’s Career Is ‘In Full Bloom’ Article & Photography Susan Motley

K

irsten McGannon counts herself among the growing number of women who are embarking on new ventures in their “second chapter” of life. For McGannon, that meant turning her lifelong passion for art into a business and she began selling her oil, acrylic and mixed media abstract paintings.

“I’m attracted to bright, energetic colors and the interplay between large fields and washes of color and the thin filament and direction of line,” she says. “My work is inspired by nature, but it’s more about an attempt to convey my feelings - a sense of joy, serenity, or curiosity.”

McGannon’s love of art started at a young age. She has fond memories of wandering through the Nelson-Atkins Museum with her aunt, Annemarie Hunter, who ran the children’s programs there.

“She’s an amazing artist and beautiful person who inspires me to this day,” McGannon explains. “I remember when ‘Sacred Circles’ came to the Nelson and she showed me how to draw the ancient horse that was the exhibit’s centerpiece. It was the first time I knew the thrill of being an artist.”

22 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

McGannon grew up in Johnson County, graduated from Shawnee Mission East, and went to the University of Missouri.

She hoped to major in Fine Arts but her parents convinced her to get a more marketable degree. She chose advertising. But she’s never stopped painting.

“In college, I had the opportunity to study in Aix-en-Provence, France, for a semester,” McGannon says. “Aix is the home of Paul Cezanne, and I spent many beautiful afternoons standing in front of the motifs he painted. I studied at the Leo Marschutz School of Painting, which was founded by students of Cezanne.”

“I remember walking through the countryside carrying my easel and paints. I felt like I was living in a postcard or an old movie. It was a very special and influential time in my life.”

Back in the real world, McGannon enjoyed a 20-year career in advertising. Seven years ago she

quit her job to stay home with her children and was able to focus on painting again. She was fortunate to study with Kansas City artist Philomene Bennett, along with other regional and national artists such as colorists Casey Klahn and Ken Elliott.

Bennett knew what it was like to be a mother and a painter, as she used to work in her garage so she could watch her children as they played outside.

“This really resonated with me as I had four young children at the time,” McGannon says. “She made me realize there are no excuses not to paint. If you love it, you will find the time and place to squeeze it into your life. So I did.”

In 2012, with her youngest in school, she felt ready to devote herself to her art.

“Putting your art out for the world to critique can be scary, but I started with a web site and slowly let people know I was ‘in business.’”

O’Home, an interior design shop in Crestwood, was the first to carry McGannon’s art and sold her first piece.

“Making that first sale was one of the most exciting moments in my life.”

More sales followed as people in Kansas City became aware of this talented artist.

McGannon says one of her favorite pieces is “In Full Bloom,” which depicts a field of roses. Tim Groebl, from Parkville, knew his wife loved the painting. For a Christmas present, he commissioned McGannon to do an extra-large version of it to fit a particular space in his home. Revision 3 Revision 1 Revision 2 Revision 4 Wife Jill Groebl was thrilled.

Creative Proofer 1: AS Proofer 1: “The painting is absolutely gorgeous. I Creative Proofer 2: AS Proofer 2: love the bright colors, use of textures and

the way the flowers look as if they’re dancing off the canvas,” she said. “The fact that my husband and Kirsten worked together to create this surprise made it even more meaningful.”

“I thought it was the most romantic gift,” McGannon says. “I enjoy collaborating with clients or interior designers to create a piece that complements a customer’s home.”

There are lots of opportunities to see McGannon’s art this spring. Her first exhibition will be at the Centric Projects in the Crossroads at 18th and Main. A First Friday opening reception is March 7 from 6-9pm and her work will be on display there through the end of May. She has been selected for a juried show called the Art Event at Kansas City Christian School in Prairie Village April 25 and 26. And, patrons can always view and purchase art at O’Home or via her website (KirstenMcGannon.com).

“I feel so fortunate to be doing what I love,” McGannon says. “I’m happiest Insertion Date: 3/3 creating, putting paint on canvas, experMission Client: City Union Job Number: 601-1253-Lifestyles-TicketSalesAd-7x4 imenting with color, and being inspired Product/Pub: Lifesyles by nature. When I’m not painting, I’m Size: 7.083 x 4.75 thinking about painting or taking phoRC Production: Work Date: 2/11 tos of what I want to paint next. Inspiration is everywhere.”

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2/12/14 10:18 AM23 March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Your Neighbors

These Ladies are …

Pretty. Funny.

Article and Photography Lisa Gartland

On a recent wintry Tuesday evening, warm laughter filled the Green Room Burgers & Beer restaurant in Westport. A spirited group was meeting to plan their next show. Five women, funny women, make up a unique act called Pretty. Funny.

Since the 90s, Pearl Rovaris MacDonald of Overland Park has performed improvisational comedy (“improv” for short) at Comedy City. In 2007, her children attended preschool at the Jewish Community Center. The school asked MacDonald if she would consider doing a show for the community, so she asked some of her longtime friends from Comedy City to join her. In addition to MacDonald, the first show included Anissa Gastin of Blue Springs, Megan Mercer of Lee’s Summit and Marian Schafer from the Northland.

As they embraced the challenge, a new era began. They performed in front of a large and responsive audience of approximately 200 people that night. Schafer recalls, “We had great reassurance from the get go.” After that show, they knew they had something special and continued to perform together.

Cindy Ptacek, of Kansas City, the fifth performer of the group, joined later. She happened to see the end of their Christmas show in 2011 and approached the group asking if they ever held auditions. Six months later they had an opening, and Ptacek jumped on board. As the youngest member of Pretty. Funny., the ladies joke that when the rest of them started, “Cindy wasn’t born yet.”

Over time, their routine has evolved into a variety show using a combination of improv, skits, song and dance. Gastin is the group’s choreographer, but the consensus is that “somewhat synchronized movement” is more accurate. Mercer laughs, “I love that we claim to dance!”

The show continues to gain fans, and the recent Christmas show sold out. Gastin thinks that a large part of their success is attributed to the fact that the shows are interactive and that all of the ladies on stage are relatable. “We are real people, and people like that.” It was unintentional that the group started out with all women, but it works for them. The show, however, appeals to both sexes, and audiences are filled with men and women.

Audience participation is significant, and Pretty. Funny. counts on that connection. People come up to them after the show and tell stories; they feel like they know them. During the most recent show, Ptacek revealed that she is expecting her first child as part of the act. Her news was met with cheers and applause from the audience. MacDonald says the biggest compliment they receive is when people approach them and say, “I just want to be up there with you!”

Each member of the group has a “day job.” Mercer is an insurance agent, Schafer is a purchasing agent, MacDonald is a key24 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

Front: Pearl MacDonald, Cindy Ptacek, Anissa Gastin and Megan Mercer.

Marian Schafer is standing in the back.

note speaker, Gastin is a school administrator and Ptacek and her husband own the Green Room. All have families, who naturally provide stories that weave their way into the act.

Organizing the show is a collaborative effort. The ladies get together and throw out ideas that change and expand to a point where it is no longer one person’s idea; it becomes the creation of the group.

Egos are left at the door because their collective goal is the best show possible. They agree that it takes each of them and their individual strengths to make it work. Kelsi Smith, of Kansas City, is a behind the scenes member of the group. Happier off stage than on, she is affectionately described by the rest of the group as their own personal “mother of adults,” keeping the show organized and moving.

Pretty. Funny. respects the great ladies of comedy who have come before them. They are a little bit Carol Burnett, Lucille Ball, Traci Ullman, Lily Tomlin and Gilda Radner. But they are also original, with their own signature that is funny and real.

Their next show is Saturday, March 29, at 5 p.m., at Comedy City.

Find out about tickets at ComedyCity.cc. They also book private parties. Like them on Facebook (facebook.com/pretty.funny.kc), and you can send a message to them for details. Make plans to catch their show, and see for yourself these ladies who are, indeed …Pretty. Funny.

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A: I was born and grew up in Kansas City and attended the University of Missouri-KC. Q: How would you describe your art?

A: I knit beaded handbags and have also done glass mosaic. I made my first handbags for myself, and friends liked them so much, I made a few for them. They liked them so much, I decided to sell them.

They are very labor intensive and are completely hand stitched with some most unusual yarn I found and enjoy searching for. I use two or more kinds of yarn in the handbags.

Q: What inspires you?

A: When designing a handbag, I am inspired by color and texture and unusual lining materials.

While I am working on a handbag, I am thinking up a name for it. Each handbag has a name.

Q: Where can people view your art?

A: In the past, I had showings of my handbags on eBay, private showings and a booth in a fair. Currently, I do not have them exhibited. Contact me at ADoubleM@ hotmail.com or 913.851.2918.

26 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

Page Turners

Lessons From CLOD An inspiring story of pediatric cancer blossoming into art, philanthropy and entrepreneurship Written By Hal Hanson

T

welve-year-old Jeffrey Owen Hanson decided to give his optic glioma a name: CLOD. Intentionally dull, slow and non-threatening. Like a clod of dirt. Not something as serious as the brain tumor that was slowly robbing him of his eyesight, and stealing his parents’ hopes and dreams for their only child’s future.

CLOD taught the Kansas family many life lessons throughout the seven years that followed. They learned that it was not the challenge (CLOD), but rather Jeff’s response to the challenge, that defined him.

To pass the time during chemotherapy, young Jeffrey painted watercolor note cards and sold them at his driveway bake sale, “Jeff’s Bistro,” to raise money for charity and for his own needs. In the years that followed, both his philanthropic spirit and his artistic abilities began to blossom, despite his low vision. Considering himself as only an “accidental artist in a backwards business,” Jeff transitioned from watercolor note cards to acrylics on canvas.

Jeff donated his paintings to charity auctions, and his exposure as an artist grew exponentially. Today, business magnate and philanthropist Warren Buffett has a Jeffrey Owen Hanson painting hanging in his home. Entertainer Elton John asked Jeffrey to paint a series of works for an Elton John AIDS Foundation sponsored African orphanage. Another lesson learned: generosity begets generosity.

Lessons From CLOD was written by Jeffrey’s father, Hal Hanson, an emergency room physician, who, up until his son’s cancer diagnosis, had been very much in control of his life, his career and his future. The book, which is available through Amazon.com as an e-reader or hardbound, takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows following a pediatric illness, offering a road map to lead beyond adversity.

Now 20 years old, Jeffrey Owen Hanson has earned a reputation not only as a renowned artist, but also as a most generous philanthropist. Through direct contributions and his paintings donated and auctioned for charity, Jeffrey generated $1 million for charity by his 20th birthday. ONE MILLION BY 20!

Lessons From CLOD is the story of what one visually impaired kid from Kansas can do.

A kid with contagious generosity, setting an example for individuals and corporations to become more philanthropic – to change our world. A kid who responded to a challenge and redefined himself. Jeffrey Owen Hanson is defined by art, philanthropy and entrepreneurship. Not as the kid down the street who lost his vision to a brain tumor.

For more information about Jeffrey Owen Hanson, visit JeffreyOwenHanson.com.

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 27

Local Limelight

Giving Motherhood a Microphone The Listen to Your Mother show comes to Kansas City Article Lisa Allen Photography Karen Ledford Photography

L

isten to your mother. Truth be told, I have issues with that phrase…

I stood on the stage of Unity Temple on the Plaza on Mother’s Day eve last year and started an extraordinary 90 minutes with those very words. I read an essay that I wrote about being my mother’s daughter, and then thirteen other women got up, each in turn, and read stories about their own moms, their children, their friends and their lives.

After the show, cast members mingled with those in the audience. As some posed with family for celebratory snapshots, others were approached by strangers who had the same two words to share, no matter which cast member they were drawn to.

Those two words were ‘me too.’ The strangers approached so Erin Margolin & Sarah Guthrie. Back: Lisa Allen & Leslie Lambeth-Kohlmeyer they, too, could share their story. Most hugged, some cried, others simply said ‘thank you for sharing your story. It’s also my story.’

And so it goes with the Listen to Your Mother Show, a phenom- Omaha. Seymour decided to not return for the 2014 show and origenon started by blogger and self-described stay-at-home humorist inal cast members Sarah Guthrie, Leslie Lambeth-Kohlmeyer and Ann Imig in 2010. From I joined Margolin as co-diher home base in Wis- The Listen to Your Mother Show will grace 32 rectors and co-producers. consin, she created a way stages across the country this year. In addition to While every show is to celebrate motherhood different, one thing is giving motherhood a microphone, each city also that involves more than consistent: stories flow brunch or the obligatory chooses a not-for-profit to support. Kansas City’s from heartbreaking to bouquet of flowers. charity of choice in 2013 was Rose Brooks Center. hilarious and topics as diThe Listen to Your verse as loss, postpartum Mother Show will grace This year the Kansas City show will support Wom- depression and the hid32 stages across the coun- en’s Employment Network. den blessings of the evtry this year. In addition eryday weave together to to giving motherhood a microphone, each city also chooses a create an experience that mirrors the joy and the exasperation not-for-profit to support. Kansas City’s charity of choice in 2013 that is motherhood. was Rose Brooks Center; in addition to writing a check for 10 “Motherhood can be a lonely occupation. We take on monupercent of the show’s total ticket sales, members of the cast also mental loads of responsibility, but it often feels like we are the toured the Center and donated a variety of requested personal only ones who didn’t shower that day or feel unable to handle it care items. This year the Kansas City show will support Wom- all!” says Seymour. “I wanted the opportunity to share these stoen’s Employment Network. ries, and for all of us to realize that we are in this together. Some Laura Seymour and Erin Margolin shared directing and produc- days, that means everything.” ing duties as the Kansas City’s show founders. The original cast Many of the cast members learned of the show through social included women from around the metro as well as Wichita and media or at blogging conferences. Because each piece must be orig-

28 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

inal, the show tends to attract writers and bloggers but, as Margolin says, there are no prerequisites to being chosen for the cast.

“We’re not looking for a resume,” says Margolin. “We’re looking for stories that resonate for one reason or another. It’s not about structure. It’s about soul.”

Original cast member Jen Mann is accustomed to a large number of readers on her blog, but she’d never before read her work out loud in front of a crowd. When she writes on her blog, she says, she decides what is funny; reading in front of an audience let them tell her, through their laughter, what they thought was funny.

“The show was amazing,” says Rita Arens, who read “Halfway,” “but I was more moved by how quickly I felt intimately connected to my fellow cast members. We’re all now friends and I haven’t made so many new friends so quickly in years. I think it was the intimacy of what we shared.”

A friend nudged Lambeth-Kohlmeyer to audition last year, and she did so without even researching the show. Once she’d sent in her submission, she headed to the show’s YouTube channel and spent hours watching videos.

“I laughed until I nearly peed,” she says. “I was hooked. I laughed, cried and blubbered and I knew that I had to be a part of this. When I read in the show last year, I was forever changed.”

Guthrie says she felt compelled to audition and then join the production team because she believes that motherhood deserves a voice. Margolin agrees, saying she most loves the

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“All we need is a podium, a microphone and the stories. That’s it,” she says. “It’s a chance to change lives because we’ve put these stories out there, and it’s an opportunity for me to stretch myself, meet incredible new people and hear stories that will change my heart. How could I not want to do it again?”

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Painting a Most A frightening medical diagnosis forced Jeff Hanson and his family to find a future more colorful than they ever dared imagine.

Article Katherine Bontrager | Photography Provided

P

art of Jeff Hanson’s personal mantra—and that of his supportive parents—was to always focus on what one can do rather than what one can’t.

After all, Jeff’s “can’t” list was a little intimidating: due to neurofibromatosis (a genetic condition affecting the nervous system, muscles, and more), ADHD, and an optic glioma (a slow-growing tumor in the optic nerve resulting in severe vision loss), Jeff would never be a lawyer, nuclear physicist, or follow his father into the medical field. In fact, he’d never even be able to drive a car or do other activities most of us take for granted.

But a funny thing happened along the way. Somehow, through happenstance, good ol’ ingenuity, and faith, Jeff’s “can” list far exceeded even his very hopeful parents’ 32 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

Jeff with A Day at Daytona

Afternoon in Provence

his joie de vivre. (After all, how many children have their final radiation treatment in a full tuxedo and top hat?)

And from there, Julie explains, things progressed in a most surprising fashion. “In essence, Jeff built a business backwards. After chemotherapy and radiation, he wanted to ‘give back.’ So he sold his hand-painted note cards. Jeff’s watercolor note cards gradually transitioned to original acrylics on canvas. At the invitation of his pediatric ophthalmologist, Jeff started donating original paintings to live charity auctions. He formed an LLC at age 15 and to date has painted approximately 1,300 original acrylic canvases.”

Heavily textured and vibrantly hued, the canvases cover the family’s basement floor and lean against the walls. Shelves overflow with paint and supplies. This truly is a family affair: Jeff gets his inspiration from the family’s summer travels. (His favorite trip was a cruise of the Mediterranean in the summer of 2007. On his wish list are trips to Australia and New Zealand.) Julie organizes the commission, philanthropic, and forsale orders, and procures the specially made canvases that can support Jeff’s thick use of acrylic, modeling paste, woven canvas, and wires. Hal and Julie help Jeff with the smaller details in his paintings, and at the order of their son, fill in small areas of color and varnish the finished product.

The trio gathers in the basement from one to two hours a day working on the canvases, which are incredibly labor intensive and usually take eight weeks for completion. (By limiting the amount of time spent painting, it ensures that Jeff doesn’t tire, or “burn out,” and leaves plenty of room for him to find inspiration and keep his painting fresh. After all, there’s a lot of life out there for the 20-yearold to experience.)

Jeff averages about four months behind on commissioned orders, which stream in from his website, JeffreyOwenHanson. com, from countless charities, and from the aLOFT Hotel in Park Place, which exhibits and sells Jeff’s spectacular spectrum of colored works.

Hal maintains his position as the emergency room medical director in Ottawa, while Julie devotes herself to helping not only Jeff ’s burgeoning business but also helping parents whose children

dreams. He is now a world-recognized artist, thriving businessman, friend to Sir Elton John, world traveler and philanthropist—painting and donating more than $1 million worth of canvases for charitable causes before the age of 20.

What could have been a life of limitations has become anything but. As Jeff’s father, Hal, says, “We refused to let Jeff’s condition define us. There was no wallowing in self-pity and saying, ‘Well, your life is over.’ We had to redefine ourselves and champion on.”

And champion on the family did. With Hal and his mom, Julie, by his side, Jeff underwent radiation and chemotherapy at the young age of 12 to treat the tumor on his optic nerve—which Jeff nicknamed CLOD— effectively shrinking it and providing Jeff with splotchy, “Swiss-cheese” vision of about 20/80.

Painting note cards provided a welcome distraction during treatments—and a calming effect on Jeff’s ADHD tendencies. The Gelato and Geraniums vibrancy he created on the cards mirrored

continued >

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 33

jeff hanson

(continued)

Below: Tuscan Breeze Right: Highland Hills

Above: Nightfall in Nice

have been diagnosed with optic gliomas and neurofibromatosis. Still, it’s only a matter of time before Jeff ’s grand adventure pulls Hal from the ER and into what has become a family business—and a very notable one at that.

After all, it’s not many kids, let alone seasoned artists, who count Sir Elton John, Susan Sarandon and Warren Buffett as owners of their original artwork. Jeff’s commissions include paintings for Fortune 500 corporations, hospitals and private collectors.

And while such accolades might lead to bravado, instead, it’s led to yet more giving. In fact, a dream to meet Elton John, granted through Make-A-Wish, further propelled Jeff’s desire to give back. The then 14-year-old presented Elton with a $1,000 check benefiting his AIDS Foundation in 2007. This surprising move on Jeff’s part led to an even more surprising move on Elton’s—in34 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

viting the family to join him in Dubai for a concert and later his private estate in England. It is proof of another Hanson family motto: Generosity begets generosity. Jeff believes that “Every act of kindness helps create kinder communities, more compassionate nations and a better world for all…even one painting at a time.”

He has donated more than 100 canvases to charity, including Make-A-Wish, Children’s Tumor Foundation, American Heart Association, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. His actions have garnered some serious attention: Jeff was a People magazine “Heroes Among Us” and appeared on CNN’s “Impact Your World.” The Huffington Post readers voted Jeff “Top Kid Making a Difference,” and he was awarded Prudential’s prestigious National “Spirit of Community” Award. In 2012, the United States Small Business Administration selected Jeff as its Region VII “Young Entrepreneur of the Year.”

And the adventure continues: Jeff now has cornered the couture, hand painting gorgeous gowns, bow ties and cummerbunds. His art was seen on a 2014 Porsche 911 GT at the ROLEX 24 at Daytona in January. Patrick Dempsey wore a matching helmet, signed by Jeff and the actor, which will be auctioned benefitting the Children’s Tu-

mor Foundation. The $750,000 effort was the largest fundraising campaign in the foundation’s seven-year history. And the family is considering licensing Jeff’s artwork in gift items, such as ceramic platters, scarves, handbags and more.

Yet the spirit of giving back continues as well, with the family putting the finishing touches on a scholarship that Jeff will grant in 2014.

Hal jokingly has referred to the unexpected unfurling of this business as a classic case of “the blind leading the blind.” Yet Jeff’s philanthropy-first business model has been a resounding success.

And in the process, he’s taught his parents so much about the beauty of ever-evolving goals and dreams. Hal recently outlined the family’s incredible journey in his book, Lessons From CLOD: An Inspiring Story of Art, Philanthropy and Entrepreneurship.

“It’s not the challenge, but rather the response to the challenge that defines you,” Julie says. And what a response the Hanson family has had. In an effort to share their inspiring tale, the trio plan to start traveling and sharing Jeff’s story, as told in Lessons From CLOD, in a one-hour keynote motivational presentation, with the book being the takeaway for attendees.

Also available on Amazon and the Church of the Resurrection’s bookstore, the beautifully bound tome captures Jeff’s very unlikely adventure—and highlights just how often life’s best journeys are the most unexpected ones.

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March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 35

The Healing Power

Art of

A Leawood museum continuously evolves to meet the needs of the community.

Article Lauren Collinsworth Claflin | Photography Provided

I

t all began with a visitor from New York.

When the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art hosted an exhibition called Treasures of The Jewish Museum of New York in 1991, leaders in the Kansas City Jewish community took note. The idea for a Jewish museum in Kansas City had already been discussed at length, and the high attendance, enthusiasm and educational value of the exhibition at the Nelson-Atkins Museum convinced them that the time was right. This group, which was comprised of local rabbis, philanthropists and art lovers, created the Kansas City Jewish Museum Foundation (KSJMF). It was chartered by the state of Kansas and received tax-exempt status in 1991.

The foundation’s original operating name was Museum Without Walls, which is a popular metaphor for educational projects that take place in non-traditional locations. This con-

36 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

cept aptly describes both the exhibitions KCJMF has hosted in Kansas City, and its creative evolution since 1991. The museum has enjoyed many permutations since its launch, always stretching, growing and evolving to best serve the needs of its community. This year is bringing even more progression to this creative endeavor.

The museum launched the Epsten Gallery in partnership with Village Shalom 2000, and has undergone recent capital improvements that make its exhibition space even more beautiful and dynamic. Funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as a grant from the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, the gallery has a new floor, new lighting and engaging new ways for visitors to participate in the artistic process. Most notably, the museum has changed its legal name to the Epsten Gallery.

The museum’s new name memorializes Jacqueline Epsten, who died last August, and was a passionate, influential voice in the museum’s continuous creative advancement.

One of the most innovative ways that the Epsten Gallery has served its community is through its ARTicipation curriculum, an art therapy program in which the gallery is transformed into a community art studio. Beginning in 2012, ARTicipation: Pop Up Studio has been not only tremendously popular with visitors but also very enlightened in its therapeutic impact with regard to the aging process.

According to Marcus Cain, executive director of the Epsten Gallery, the idea for ARTicipation originated with a conversation he had with Jacqueline Epsten five years ago, when Espten was recovering from knee surgery.

“Jacqueline was using a physical therapy program created for dancers and choreographers,” says Cain. “She felt that the therapy was more beneficial to her because there was an artistic component to the movements that made the strain less stressful. A light bulb went off in my head, because I was in the process of developing a program to target Village Shalom residents who were not being reached by traditional program activities.”

Cain developed the program, working with art therapist Sherri Jacobs, who continues to play an important role, not only working with Village Shalom residents, but also facilitating a partnership with the Kansas Art Therapy Association. The pilot stage of ARTicipation: Pop Up Studio, which launched in January 2012, was very successful, and reached about 520 engaged participants both inside and outside of Village Shalom. In the second phase of ARTicipation, in 2013, that number skyrocketed. It featured 1,864 participants, and inspired organizations throughout the Kansas

City area to seek assistance from the Epsten Gallery to develop ARTicipation programs to serve the needs of their own audiences. Later that year, The National Jewish Daily Forward published an article that identified ARTicipation as one of seven influential programs for the aging.

The ARTicipation workshops are very dynamic and exciting, and reach a large number of people at a time. However, Cain noticed that some participants could clearly benefit from a deeper level of art therapy. In late 2012, the gallery hired an art therapist to conduct one-on-one sessions with residents throughout the Village Shalom community.

Seeing the impact that these workshops and one-on-one sessions can have on the participants is very special to Cain. An experience during his teenage years led him toward art therapy, and that session not only helped him heal, but also led him to become an artist.

“In that art therapy session, I realized the potential of art to serve as a powerful means of communication and self-expression,” says Cain.

Cain considers his work with the Epsten Gallery to be the ideal opportunity to apply his artistic background and creative problem-solving skills to serve people in need. That the artwork created through these therapy sessions is so unique and engaging to visitors is even more gratifying.

This year, the Epsten Gallery’s beautiful renovation was unveiled in its re-launch in February, with the first exhibition of the year, ARTicipation: Pop Up Studio 2014, the third installation of this remarkable program. It features works of art created by Village Shalom residents, and a series of public and private workshops at the gallery, and at sites throughout the community. ARTicipation: Pop Up Studio 2014 runs through March 23 at Village Shalom at 123rd St and Nall in Leawood. Visit KCJMCA.org for more information.

Hometown Heroes

Retiring Police Chief to Head SMSD Security O

verland Park Police Chief John Douglas recently announced his retirement from the city after 41 years of service. His retirement is effective April 18.

“On behalf of the City Council and entire Overland Park community, I want to congratulate Police Chief John Douglass on his retirement,” says Mayor Carl Gerlach.

“Overland Park’s national reputation and recognition as one of the safest communities in the country is a true testament to Chief Douglass’ leadership of the Police Department and his commitment.”

The Shawnee Mission School District will tap Douglass to lead the district’s safety and security efforts. The appointment of Douglass as director of safety and security was officially approved by the board at a January meeting.

Douglass joined the Overland Park Police Department as a patrol officer in February 1973. He has held various ranks including detective, sergeant, member and commander of the Emergency Response Team (SWAT), lieutenant, major and assistant police chief. He served as acting police chief from December 1995 and was appointed Chief of Police in March 1996.

During his tenure, Douglass was recognized for many accomplishments including implementing new crime fighting strategies such as information-based policing and strategic deployment.

This policing and deployment strategy has been replicated in other communities nationwide.

38 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

He also initiated a nationwide benchmarking group, which enabled police departments in comparable cities to accurately share and evaluate data and initiatives.

“I want to thank Chief Douglass for his 41 years of outstanding service, including 18 years as police chief,” says City Manager Bill Ebel. “Chief Douglass is a leader among his peers. John has made an enduring impact on law enforcement in Overland Park.

The process to replace Chief Douglass will be a deliberate and thoughtful one. The position of police chief is vitally important to Overland Park.”

During his career in law enforcement, Douglass has garnered widespread respect for leading important initiatives including In Defense of our Schools, a multi-jurisdictional task force focused on school safety and security issues. He has worked with area school districts, including Shawnee Mission, to implement the School Resource Officer (SRO) and other successful programs.

“School safety is more important than ever, and we are pleased to have Chief Douglass, who has a wealth of experience and familiarity with our schools and community, join us to lead our district police force and safety and security efforts,” says Superintendent Jim Hinson.

Douglass plans to join the school district on May 1.

Real-Life Monuments Men Part of Nelson-Atkins History

Paul Gardner - Director

Laurence Sickman 1943

Legislation Would Award Congressional Gold Medals Photography courtesy of the Nelson-Atkins Archive

A

s excitement has been building for the release of the Sony film The Monuments Men, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art applauds six real-life Monuments Men who either worked in or closely with the museum. Monuments men and women, commissioned by Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II, were tasked with the protection, recovery and preservation of millions of Europe’s masterpieces during the Nazi occupation.

“The men and women involved in this selfless effort to keep art objects safe during a dangerous time in history showed immense courage,” says Julián Zugazagoitia, CEO and Director of the Nelson-Atkins. “We are deeply in their debt for preserving these treasures for humanity.”

The Bloch Lobby will host an archival materials display that includes postcards, manuscripts, newspaper clippings and biographies of the Nelson-Atkins’ Monuments Men. “My research has shown that these six men brought to their military duties the same passion for art and culture that made them so valuable to the Nelson-Atkins,” says MacK-

enzie Mallon, a researcher in the European Painting & Sculpture Department. “They took their responsibilities as protectors of these monuments very seriously.”

The museum employed four of the Monuments Men and maintained strong ties with two others. Paul Gardner, the first director of the Nelson-Atkins, served as director of the Fine Arts Section of the Allied Military Government in Italy. Another former director, Laurence Sickman, was assigned to General MacArthur’s Tokyo headquarters after the Japanese surrender and served as a technical advisor on collections and monuments, making trips to China and Korea to assess the level of damage to monuments in those countries. He was awarded the Legion of Merit for his war services.

The first curator of European Art at the museum, Patrick J. Kelleher, served as the head of the Greater Hesse Division of the Monuments, Fine Arts and Archives section. Otto Wittmann, Jr., the first curator of Prints for the museum, was part of the OSS Art Looting and Investigation Unit.

Langdon Warner served as the Asian art

advisor to the Trustees of the Nelson-Atkins in 1930, and was a close colleague of Sickman.

He helped found the American Defense – Harvard Group, a precursor of the Roberts Commission, Roosevelt’s task force. James A. Reeds served with the Monuments, Fine Arts and Archives section in France in 1944.

He taught linguistics at University of Missouri at Kansas City and served as a docent for the Nelson-Atkins.

During World War II, the Nelson-Atkins served as a safe house for more than 150 paintings and tapestries from collections on the East and West coasts.

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt from Missouri recently introduced a bipartisan bill that would award Congressional Gold Medals to all 350 of the men and women referred to as Monuments Men. The Monuments Men, starring George Clooney and Matt Damon, was released nationally in February. The film is based on the book The Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History by Robert M. Edsel.

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 39

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Just like Home, but Better 25 Years of Elegance and Comfort at Hallbrook Country Club Article Lisa Allen | Photography Rivas Media & 4 Ft Photoz

H

allbrook Country Club recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, the property has undergone a complete renovation to modernize and update its physical features. What hasn’t changed is the steadfast commitment to community and elegance that members have come to expect through the years.

“This isn’t your father’s country club anymore,” says Communications and Marketing Director Casey Olson. “This is a place that encourages families to spend time together, and we are finding new ways for kids to get involved. It’s a fun place to socialize with friends.”

Known for its elegant appointments and impeccable service, Hallbrook Country Club boasts a ballroom that can be partitioned into three distinct rooms. The Board Room is a smaller, more private space; the Sunset Room faces a bank of windows and offers a spectacular view of the sunset over the golf course; and the Drawing Room houses a brand new bar and wine cellar.

“The new space is gorgeous,” says Olson. A fresh, permanent bar replaces the previous temporary bar. Olson describes it as sleek and modern, noting the sparkling glassware that lines the mirrored walls. There are also glass doors so members are able to see every bottle in the new cellar.

The ballroom can seat up to 350 members for a single event, but the real beauty is the flexibility offered for events of all sizes.

42 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

“We host everything from small board meetings to weddings with 300 guests,” says Director of Catering Leslie Miller. “We work directly with each party to set up the rooms in a way that best accommodates their goals and their design tastes.”

Regardless of the type of event, one common theme seems to run through each. With neutral carpeting, ivory walls and sophisticated furnishings the focus is often on the enormous windows and the views beyond that make people catch their breath.

“We are so blessed to have all these windows,” says Miller. “The space speaks for itself. While we’re happy to accommodate different tastes and a variety of design requests, many members find that they don’t need elaborate decorations or even centerpieces.

The space is gorgeous as is.”

Miller focuses on the details of each event, saying that the staff can truly make anything happen. Every event is personalized, right down to the place settings and the wine service, and the pricing is competitive.

“We can truly work with any event, and I make it my personal mission that members have absolutely nothing to worry about. I like to see that the event evolves just as they want it to, and we’re involved every step of the way to make sure there are no surprises.”

“We live for our mission,” says Olson, “which is to provide the finest family oriented facilities, programs and services for the satisfaction of our members. This includes the impeccable service that we’ve become known for.

Our sense of community is so important,” she says, “and our members know that whether they need a place to conduct business or a space to commemorate a personal milestone with family and friends, we are here for that purpose.”

Olson says one of her favorite spaces is the patio, which she describes as “very grand” and a perfect place for a wedding. With tents and arbors available to be set up outside during the summer months, the spot is ideal for anyone who longs for a graceful yet natural setting.

In addition to the meeting spaces, Hallbrook Country Club boasts state of the art tennis courts and fitness facilities as well as a clubhouse with a full wall of windows. Olson says members appreciate being able to work out while enjoying a view of the golf course.

Hallbrook Country Club also offers services such as personal training and massage therapy. A lounge with food, smoothies and drinks completes the on-site offerings.

“We are respectful of our deep and storied history but, at the same time, we are always finding ways to improve and offer ways for our members to gather, socialize, work and celebrate in a memorable way,” says Olson. “We are here for our families, and we want each member, whether they are grandparents, parents or kids, to feel at home and be satisfied with what we offer.”

To learn more about Hallbrook Country Club, visit HallbrookCC.org.

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March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 43

Worship Time

Morse Covenant Church Photography Lisa Gartland

W

hen you walk into our 100 year old church, you will find a very open, loving community of believers who gladly slide down the pew to make room for visitors. Our mission statement is “To change lives by engaging in God’s mission to repair the world.”

We have always wanted to be a church in which youth felt welcome and were given a significant emphasis in the life of the church.

Our TeenConnect program on Wednesday evenings involves approximately 30 high school and middle school students at 6:30 p.m. It is a wonderful time for kids to pray, hang out, and study the Bible in small groups. Our Youth Director, Gray Daganaar, does a terrific job of visiting students throughout the week, too. We seek to be a source of comfort and guidance for kids, many of whom are going through some of the most challenging times in their lives.

In addition to this, we do our best to include students in all aspects of church life.

For example, our worship band on Sunday mornings is made up entirely of high school students, and the scripture reading is typically done by students.

We sponsor kids to go on mission trips, attend summer camp, volunteer at summer camp, and attend CHIC, the national youth conference for the Evangelical Cov44 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

enant Church at the University of Tennessee held every three years.

We have sponsored and led a mission trip for the past several years each summer for groups of 20-25. We have traveled to South Carolina, South Dakota, Oklahoma and Jamaica serving the needy in inner cities as well as rural areas. Each Christmas season, we also manage a Christmas tree lot on our property to raise money for these trips and other mission ventures.

However, we do not see missions as a once a year activity during the summer. We try our hardest to be doing mission work by

Details

Morse Covenant Church 15431 Quivira Rd. Overland Park, KS 66221 913.302.1321 MorseCovenant.org info@morsecovenant.org Senior Pastor and Worship Leader: Dave Stanley Youth Program Director: Gray Daganaar Children’s Ministry Coordinator: Karen Laybourne

serving the needy every day. As our mission statement says, our desire is to engage with God in helping ‘repair’ the world. Therefore, we take weekly collections for the Salvation Army food bank, Pastor Dave Stanley directs a weekly inner city youth ministry that he and his wife started 10 years ago, we serve food at a women’s shelter in KCMO and we sponsor missionaries and other mission organizations as much as possible.

As a complement to TeenConnect, we have three other small group ministries that currently meet. The first is for adults, and it meets at the home of one of our members on Tuesday and Saturday evenings. The emphasis is on prayer and helping support each other as parents and believers. We also have a program that introduces college students to the Christian faith that meets every Sunday evening at the church. Finally, we have a women’s ministry gathering that meets once per month at the church.

We invite you to visit, and we embrace the opportunity to welcome you to Morse Covenant Church anytime.

In this ongoing series we hope to introduce our neighbors to many area communities of faith. For details about a spotlight, email Lisa@LifestylePubs.com.

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Liberty Meadows Training Center For the Spirit of Competition; for the Love of the Ride Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography Provided

F

amed novelist Alice Walker once noted, “Horses make a landscape look beautiful.” These words ring true when you find yourself surrounded by such beauty at Liberty Meadows Training Center.

However, it is not just the facility and surrounding pastures that will take your breath away. It is also the people who work there and the horses that reside there that will truly intoxicate your equestrian spirit.

Situated on 40 glorious acres just minutes south of the 119th Street and Metcalf corridor in Bucyrus, Liberty Meadows is a state-of-the-art professional equestrian training and riding center with 63 heated barn stalls, a finished office and lounge with a big screen TV and bar. Established in 2000, Liberty Meadows has represented wins at numerous local, regional, Canadian and U.S. National levels in every major division.

46 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

Their dedicated team specializes in all performance disciplines with an intense focus on goals and desired outcomes.

Owner and professional riding instructor and horse trainer Ryan Strand has an extensive background in equestrian ship and the countless accolades by which to prove it. Strand began his riding career in childhood at Strands Arabians in Toddville, Iowa, which was owned by his grandfather. Strand practically cut his teeth at the stables, eventually capturing numerous national titles. Each day, Strand contributes his time, talent, energies and passion to each and every client and to each and every horse.

Team member Elise Worman, also a professional riding instructor and horse trainer, has been around horses since the age of five and competed throughout her youth and teen years, eventually being named

the 2002 Youth Nationals Champion in Saddle Seat Equitation 14-17 and the Reserve Champion in the UPHA Challenge Cup that same year. Worman has continued to embrace her passion for equitation and, along with Strand, works with passion and purpose bringing the best in customer service, education, showmanship and fun.

“At Liberty Meadows, we train Arabian and half-Arabian show horses,” notes Worman. “We are a full-service facility and we fully prepare client horses for any level of competition – local, regional and national.”

Riding lessons are also available, from the novice up through the ranks of high-level competitor.

“We specialize in any level of involvement and competition,” stresses Worman. “We are a competitive show barn yet we also emphasize the fun part of learning how to ride.”

This full-service training facility is filled to near capacity with client horses currently in full-time training. “We feed the horses, clean the stalls and provide for all aspects of each horse’s care and training,” says Worman.

Worman is all smiles when it comes to the obvious passion and joy she has for her work. “I love working with riders of all levels and really enjoy seeing them accomplish their goals, whether competing for a local, regional or national title.”

If competition is not up your alley, perhaps a few riding lessons for fun are in order, and Liberty Meadows offers great private and group lesson rates for the aspiring equestrian in you. And if a fun, outof-the-box birthday party is desired, then consider taking advantage of one of their birthday party packages. Starting at $200, kids can enjoy one hour of horse/pony rides, followed by a special 30-minute celebration in their party area.

Liberty Meadows also purchases and sells horses from Class A competitors to National Winners.

For more information, visit Liberty Meadows at 21000 Switzer Road, Bucyrus, Kansas; call 816.547.0602 or visit them online at Liberty-Meadows.com.

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March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 47

Giving Back

Ronald McDonald House Charities Where families find comforts of home Article Judy Harper Goppert | Photography Provided

W

hen a child gets sick, the world stops. Parents are thrown into an unknown world of doctors, medical expenses and fear. That is where Ronald McDonald House Charities steps in and provides warmth and care in an impossibly difficult time.

With Children’s Mercy in our own back yard, those of us who live in the Kansas City metro area are lucky to have a world class children’s hospital available for any emergency or illness our children might experience. It is hard to imagine what it would be like to have to drive for hours, and take up residence to be near our child while he or she is treated for a chronic illness.

Holly Buckendahl, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City, shares a story of one family who recently had to do just that.

“Chase is a sweet but mischievous six year old with stage 4 Neuroblastoma, a cancer that targets his nerve tissue. He was diagnosed when he was just one, and he and his family have been staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City (RMHC-KC) on and off throughout his treatments,” she says. Chase’s family lives two hours away from Kansas City and he cannot get his needed treatment 48 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

anywhere else. RMCH-KC provides the family a suite that accommodates his medical needs, warm meals, a refreshing shower and support from the friends they’ve made at the House. “Most importantly, they don’t have to stay at a hotel or in their car when Chase is receiving his weekly treatments. They can fully focus on supporting Chase in his treatment and recovery because RMHC-KC takes care of the rest.”

Philadelphia Eagles football player Fred Hill, and his wife, Fran, started RMHC in 1973, and since then nearly 300 houses have been built worldwide. The Kansas City Chapter of RMHC was established by a group of volunteers in 1980 with the opening of the twenty-seventh house in 1981 with a capacity for 11 families. Today there are two houses adjacent to Hospital Hill in Kansas City. The Ronald McDonald House on Cherry Street, located at 2501 Cherry Street, opened in 1988. In 2006, RMHC increased its capacity to serve families when it opened a new Ronald McDonald House in Longfellow Park located at 2502 Cherry Street. Together, the Houses provide temporary lodging for 60 families each night while their children undergo vital medical care. Twelve suites at the Longfellow House serve immuno-suppressed children and their families.

“Our homes offer a warm and welcoming place to sleep, as well as full kitchen facilities, laundry facilities, living rooms and recreation areas to provide a homey environment where families may relax away from the stresses of the hospital and meet other families experiencing similar crises,” Buckendahl notes.

The Ronald McDonald Family Room, located within Children’s Mercy Hospital, opened its doors in March of 1997 bringing the com-

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-- Michael Searcy, ChFC, CFP®, AIFA® President, Searcy Financial Services forts of home inside the hospital, providing support and respite for in-patient pediatric families. The Family Room offers seven sleeping/napping rooms to families with patients in the Intensive Care Units, and a kitchen, showers, quiet room, family conversation area with television and a small reference library. The concept of a Ronald McDonald Family Room was pioneered in Kansas City and since its inception has spread to nearly 200 hospitals worldwide.

Buckendahl is excited about the fact that a third, 20-bedroom Ronald McDonald House will open in Kansas City. They are currently building and working on raising the funds necessary for this $4.5 million project.

“Our other goal this year is to raise the resources necessary to operate three Houses and the Family Room in Children’s Mercy Hospital – a $500,000 increase from years past,” she says. “We hope to do this through corporate giving, individual giving, estate gifts, events and foundations. We also rely on our two signature events, the Trent Green Golf Classic in June and The Red Shoe Shindig in September.”

RMHC-KC served more than 5,000 families last year, with an average stay of nine days per family. That number will increase by at least 1,000 in the years to come with the new House. With a small full-time staff, they are dependent on compassionate, dedicated volunteers who are sensitive to families’ needs.

Volunteers and donors come in so many different shapes and sizes.

One such giving guy is Lee’s Summit artist Jim Ware, who did a painting demonstration at an anniversary party for Lifestyle Publications last year. He sold his painting, Plaza Holidays, in a silent auction at the end of the party, with the money going to RMHC-KC. RMHC-KC has great need for volunteers and support: front desk staffing, assisting families, housekeeping, hospitality and donating bedding supplies like blankets, bedspreads and mattress covers.

Volunteer groups are needed to provide meals for families, and assistance is always needed for large projects such as yard work, gardening, painting, window cleaning and basement organizing/cleaning.

Or join the Red Shoe Society and lend your creativity to fundraising.

Visit RMHCKC.org for volunteer forms and answers to questions.

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Parent’s Corner Help them focus on strategies that work best for their personality. Have confidence that your child can cultivate these important skills but it will take time and patience on your part. Look at this as a lens of opportunity to make a real impact on your child’s future. Allow yourself to be surprised by the techniques your child will use to problem solve when given the chance.

Steps to consider when problems arise: Identify and define the problem.

When your student states the problem in his/her own words, it will allow you to ask questions of clarification which can help generate problem solving potential. What you perceive as the problem might actually be different than their version of the issue.

Gain additional information about the problem.

This might include detailed observations, collection of data, and identification of any barriers. Some people make decisions based on factual knowledge while others will defer to creativity and insight.

Help your child identify potential solutions.

Have You Helped Your Child Develop Their Problem Solving Potential?

Article Rebecca Murphy

B

enjamin Franklin said there were only two things certain in life: death and taxes. As a parent and educator, I subscribe to another certainty. No matter how old you are, where you live, or what you do, life is about solving problems one at a time. Everyone can benefit from a well-developed set of problem solving skills so it’s never too early to introduce and reinforce the concept. Problem solving is required at every stage of life and is the foundation of self-reliance. When children master hurdles and obstacles, they will develop patience, perseverance, better peer relations, coping strategies for use in sports or activities, achieve greater academic success, and establish overall emotional health.

It’s extremely uncomfortable to see our children in turmoil so our natural instinct is to relieve their discomfort by using our knowledge and experiences to solve their problems. We must be careful not to allow our youngsters to become dependent on us deciding how to handle their difficulties. It is easy to shut down their level of resourcefulness when they can count on us to do what must be developed within themselves. This will be especially important for those kids whose current response to problems is to avoid and fold. When your instinct is to resolve, take a deep breath and think of yourself as a coach guiding your child through the development of problem solving. It is important to respect that you child’s approach may be different than your own.

52 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

To maximize on the evolution of this important process, work to find three or four solutions to the current issue. Two solutions might reflect a good and bad choice where three or more ideas results in more sophisticated choices and actual problem solving. Introduce that seeking the advice of others can be beneficial as it provides different points of view and opens up the possibility of additional solutions.

Making a Decision

Discuss the pros and cons of each possible solution. Don’t rush your child and allow them to fully process the potential consequences of each option. Value their analysis and support their decisions.

Implementation and Feedback

Support your child in their ability to execute on their problem solving decision. Initially it may take extreme courage to follow up on a difficult choices or attack complicated situations. When the condition resolves itself, it’s important to seek feedback.

What worked and what didn’t work? The best problem solving is where you learn from your mistakes and do not repeat them.

Imagine your student arrives at home with a disappointing mark from school. Rather than take away privileges or impose punishments, problem solve about the difficulties. Give your student the chance to explain, without judgment, what they perceive to being the stumbling blocks to their success. Identify how they are currently approaching the subject and allow for honesty about what is working and what is not. Rather than tell them how it’s done, brainstorm a set of approaches that might help their situation. Allow yourself to see beyond the obvious and get their insight. Encourage them to problem solve and evolve in their understanding of the subject. Give them the encouragement not to repeat their usual mistakes but to try something new until they get the results they want.

Life will always be chaotic without the skill of problem solving.

With a little practice and the right attitude, it can be one of the biggest enablers of growth and opportunity.

Rebecca Murphy is a 30-year veteran educator of the Shawnee Mission School District.

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Trends show that today’s consumers are interested in incorporating convenience, technology and comfort into their homes so it’s no surprise that this trend has trickled down to home décor.

Budget Blinds, a leader in the window covering industry, now offers motorized drapes, blinds, shades and shutters. With one click of a button, home owners can control the light and privacy levels in their homes by opening or closing their window coverings. Motorized window coverings can be operated from the home owner’s choice of a wireless wall switch or a hand-held remote. Homeowners can

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program the system to raise or lower the window coverings at their choice of times on any given day.

Motorization can reduce the wear and tear on window coverings that comes from manual operation. Motorization also provides a key safety feature in homes with young children since they are inherently cordless. They also have the ability to act as a home security element as they give the illusion homeowners are at home as lamps on timers do. As an added safely element, all of Budget Blinds’ motorized products meet or exceed the new safety standards set in 2013 by the Window Covering Manufacturers Association.

There are several area Budget Blinds retailers in the Kansas City area able to answer your questions. For details, visit BudgetBlinds.com.

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816-942-8900 13611 Holmes Road KC, MO 64145

Article Rachel Hodgson

www.renoskc.com

Photography New Friends Photography

Dealer Tagging Area

©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ®, and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP. Products distributed in the USA by BRP US Inc. BRP reserves the right to discontinue or modify product models, features or price at any time. Not all riding conditions are appropriate for inexperienced or beginner riders. Always ride safely and responsibly. *Excludes freight, delivery charges, taxes and registration fees. 2107360

R

ambo Meowserton is as unforgettable as his name. You are sure to notice him standing out from the crowd with his big ears and beautiful stripes. He may look like a tiger, but he is a very mellow kitty who enjoys the quiet life. Rambo was brought to Great Plains SPCA in June when his owner could no longer care for him. It was a sad moment for all when he was handed over, but our organization could provide him the attention he deserved, and help him find a new home. While in our care, he’s had a few minor medical issues, but our top-notch veterinary staff has helped him become a healthy boy and he is more than ready to be adopted. After many months with us, we are eager to find his forever home. If you are looking for a cat, dog, kitten or puppy, we invite you to visit our state-of-the-art shelters where our wide selection changes every day.

With springtime upon us, our team is expecting hundreds of litters of kittens and puppies to come through our doors, and we will especially need help from the community in the form of adoptions, donations, volunteering and advocating. You can donate much needed supplies for the litters, like baby bottles or formula (see our Amazon wish lists online). You can open your home as a foster parent to help young pets get ready for new families. You can even pick a pet on our website and help them find a home with something as simple as a Facebook post. And of course, you can give an online donation gift to help us cover the costs of being a lifesaving organization. Every dollar counts.

Learn more about how you can help at GreatPlainsSPCA.org.

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It’s unlike any other watercraft out there. Fun to ride. Easy to store. And a breeze to tow.

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©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ®, and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP. Products distributed in the USA by BRP US Inc. BRP reserves the right to discontinue or modify product models, features or price at any time. Not all riding conditions are appropriate for inexperienced or beginner riders. Always ride safely and responsibly. *Excludes freight, delivery charges, taxes and registration fees. 2107360

Dealer Tagging Area

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AMBER_ROOFING_JUMBOPSTCRD.pdf

1

10/31/12

12:49 PM

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New Construction • Insurance Claims • Re-Roofs / Repairs (816) 994-2556 • Licensed & Insured • AmberRoofingKC.com Serving the Kansas City Metro area for over 30 years

58 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Johnson County Properties neighborhood

original list

list price

sold $$

%sp to lp dom* bdrms

ba

city

The Woods Estates

$1,850,000

$1,850,000

$1,575,000

85%

186

5

5.3

Leawood

Hallbrook

$1,775,000

$1,575,000

$1,437,500

91%

254

6

6.1

Leawood

Hallbrook

$1,399,000

$1,299,000

$1,215,000

93%

114

5

5.2

Leawood

Town & Country Manor

$1,200,000

$1,200,000

$1,160,000

96%

13

5

5.2

Overland Park

Mission Hills

$1,500,000

$1,500,000

$1,116,000

74%

559

4

4.1

Mission Hills

Hallbrook

$999,000

$999,000

$989,000

99%

79

4

3.2

Leawood

The Woods Villas

$845,000

$845,000

$785,000

92%

0

4

4.1

Leawood

Wilderness Valley

$799,000

$749,000

$698,000

93%

100

5

4.1

Overland Park

Windsor Hills

$665,000

$665,000

$650,000

97%

6

4

5.1

Overland Park

Sagamore Hills

$739,000

$690,000

$630,000

91%

41

4

3.2

Mission Hills

Mission Hills

$699,000

$649,000

$620,000

95%

222

4

2.1

Mission Hills

Nottingham Estates

$650,000

$625,000

$600,000

96%

201

5

5.1

Overland Park

Wellington Park Parkside

$580,000

$574,950

$551,800

95%

63

4

4.2

Overland Park

Waterford

$539,900

$544,900

$530,000

97%

109

4

3.1

Leawood

Whitehorse

$525,000

$525,000

$515,000

98%

72

4

4.1

Leawood

Brookhighland

$520,000

$500,000

$505,000

101%

161

5

4.1

Overland Park

West Riding

$489,900

$489,900

$489,900

100%

0

4

3.2

Prairie Village

Wilshire Farms

$534,900

$479,000

$460,000

96%

163

5

4.1

Overland Park

Edegewood

$530,000

$460,000

$445,000

96%

114

3

3

Leawood

MLS Statistics from 1/1/2014-1/31/2014

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 59

Driver's Notebook

Buick’s Sub-Compact Encore is a GM First Article and Photography Tom Strongman

T

he Buick Encore is the opposite of what one imagines a utility vehicle to be. It is short and stubby, downright tiny compared to most utility vehicles.

Buick, once known for full-size cars with big engines, is after a young audience with the sub-compact Encore because older, traditional Buick buyers would surely think it too small. The Encore looks to be among those on the leading edge of a trend toward smaller-than-compact utility vehicles. Competitors include the Mini Countryman and the Fiat 500L. My first thought, after a recent visit to Italy, was that the Encore would be right at home in the cramped quarters of Europe.

Apparently, so does General Motors, because it sells versions overseas under the Vauxhall and Opel badges.

The Encore, based on the Chevy Sonic platform, seems to be the epitome of downsizing. Originally, most sport-utility vehicles were based on pickup trucks with body-on-frame construction, but the quest to cut weight and improve efficiency led to crossover vehicles that were car-based.

My reaction to the little Buick left me a bit confused. It was quiet and solid, and it rode surprisingly well considering the short wheelbase. The Premium test car had a long list of convenience items, including a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control, but it needs more power and a bigger cargo hold.

Base prices for the 2013 models start at $24,200 for front-wheel

60 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

drive and $25,700 for all-wheel drive. There are four trim levels.

An all-wheel-drive Premium model tops out at $32,230 and that seems like a lot for a vehicle this size.

The 2014 model is available with blind-zone monitoring and cross-traffic alert for the rearview camera.

The Encore is surprisingly tight and solid. Wind and road noise have been nicely muted, and the turbocharged, 1.4-liter engine goes about its business with hardly a sound. With 138 horsepower, the engine has modest performance, and I sometimes wished for more power while accelerating onto the freeway. A full load of passengers would certainly zap acceleration.

Front-wheel drive is standard, and the optional all-wheel drive system shifts power to the rear wheels only at low speeds.

One reason the car is so quiet is because Bose Active Noise Cancellation uses ceiling mounted microphones to detect engine noise while a computer issues counteracting sound waves through the audio speakers.

The upsloping beltline and smallish rear side windows make the vehicle look tall and a bit disproportionate, but the style grows more familiar with each passing day. I expected the back seat to feel closed in because of the small windows, but I didn’t feel that way.

The front seats were not especially comfortable and the cabin is pretty narrow. Rear-seat legroom is better than I expected for a car with such a short wheelbase. Buick says six full grocery bags will fit with the back seat upright.

Folding the split back seat to expand cargo space was a bit tricky. The bottom seat cushions have to be tilted forward before the back can fold, and the headrests interfered with the back of the front seats. The front passenger seat back folds forward to accommodate long items.

The test car had leather seats (heated in front), Bluetooth for phone and music, rear-view camera, tilt steering column, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, anti-lock brakes, traction control, vehicle stability control and 10 airbags.

The instrument panel had easily readable gauges, upscale textures and an array of nicely designed buttons on the center stack.

A seven-inch screen displays audio and navigation information.

Price The test car’s base price was $28,190. Options included 18-inch chrome wheels, navigation system with AM-FM-satellite radio and carbon black paint. The sticker price was $30,925.

Buick Encore Premium

1.4-liter, 138-horsepower four-cylinder Transmission: Six-speed automatic Front-wheel drive Wheelbase: 100.6 inches Curb weight: 3,190 pounds Base price: $28,190 As driven: $30,925 MPG rating: 25 city, 33 highway Engine:

Warranty Four years or 50,000 miles with a six-year, 70,000mile powertrain warranty.

At A Glance Point: I am surprised that GM’s smallest utility vehicle is a Buick. The Encore has decent passenger space and is quiet and well-equipped. The four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission deliver good fuel economy.

Counterpoint: The

Encore has to plow new marketing ground to reach Buick buyers. Cargo space is fairly small, and a loaded, allwheel-drive model seems pretty pricey given the vehicle’s size.

March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 61

Lifestyle Calendar

March Thursdays in March MarathonMasters Overland Park

This Toastmasters club helps members become better speakers and leaders. Whether you are a professional, teacher, stay-athome parent, or retired, Toastmasters is the best way to improve your communication skills. Guests welcome. Thursdays at noon at YRC Freight. MarathonMasters.org

March 8

March 15 St. Patrick’s Day Run Westport

In its 36th year, this race kicks off a lively St. Patrick’s celebration with a sea of green-clad participants. Hosted by KC Track Club. 1011:30 a.m. StPatricksDay4MileRun.com

March 15 Spring Luncheon & Fashion Show Bingham-Waggoner Estate

Enjoy a fun filled afternoon including lunch and a preview of the latest spring fashions from Alissa’s. A fundraiser for the continued estate preservation and presentation. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m.; lunch at noon. $25. Make reservations by calling 816.461.3491.

Regional Southeast Asian Cuisine

March 18

L’Ecole Culinaire Academy

Polar Obsession

Cooking classes for food enthusiasts. Learn from the best at L’Ecole Culinaire Academy. Cost for class is $75. 6-9 p.m. Located at 310 Ward Parkway, Kansas City. 816.627.0100 LEcole.edu

Kauffman Center

March 9 Turtle Island Quartet Johnson County Community College

Turtle Island fuses the classical quartet esthetic with contemporary jazz. Cellist nonpareil Yo-Yo Ma has proclaimed TIQ to be “a unified voice that truly breaks new ground – authentic and passionate – a reflection of some of the most creative music-making today.” Polsky Theater at JCCC. JCCC.edu

March 9 Spring Forward Kansas City

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. Spring forward your clocks by one hour. It is the perfect time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. Return to standard time on November 2.

March 13-16 Kansas City Fashion Week Union Station

Kansas City Fashion Week’s fifth consecutive showcase in the historic Union Station showcases more than 33 designers. This season is a sure fire show stopper of the 2014 Fall/Winter collections. KCFashionWeek.com

Through March 14 Children’s Art Show Images Art Gallery, Overland Park

This non-profit 501C-3 gallery is giving young artists recognition and encouraging their artistic talents by featuring children’s artwork until March 14 at 7320 West 80th Street. Overland Park ImagesArtGallery.com 62 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

A photojournalist exploring Earth’s most remote and extreme environments, Paul Nicklen faces incredible hardships and personal danger in pursuit of intimate and powerful images of iconic wildlife.

Program starts at 7:30 p.m. KauffmanCenter.org

March 20 Climb Every Mountain-The Music of Rodgers & Hammerstein Olathe

Climb Every Mountain celebrates songs we’ve grown to love.

Spend an evening listening to the beautiful songs from musical theatre classics: The King And I, South Pacific, Cinderella, Oklahoma, The Sound Of Music. At Chestnut Fine Arts theater. Runs through May 4. ChestnutFineArts.com

March 20 Tomahawk Trail Clean Up Tomahawk Park

Help clean-up your park along Tomahawk Creek in this “feel good” event. 2-5 p.m. Parks & Rec will provide trash bags, gloves and snacks/drinks for this volunteer effort. Preregistration required. Call 913.681.0902 x 10 to register.

March 22 Passport to Adventure Kickoff Bass Pro Shop, Independence

Visit booths and discover the treasures of local history, see live animals, and participate in hands-on activities. Pick up your 2014 Passport to Adventure. Once you have completed the passport, turn it in to a participating site by October 31 to receive a prize. Historic Oxford Schoolhouse and Prairie Oak Nature Center are participants.

913.764-7759 or Facebook.com/kcpassport

March 27-April 13

March 29

Bernstein’s Broadway

Basket-BALL 2014

Crown Center

Kansas City

The Off Center Theater presents a salute to America’s most gifted composer, Leonard Bernstein. Featuring West Side Story, Candide and more. MusicalTheaterHeritage.com.

BasketBALL is the National Parkinson Foundation Heartland’s annual fundraising gala held at the College Basketball Experience. Enjoy food and drinks, a live and silent auction, casino area, and of course watch the Final Four basketball games. 5-11 p.m. ParkinsonHeartland.org

March 28 Midwest Health & Wellness Open House

April 4

Westwood

Park University Van Cliburn Tribute Concert

You’re invited to visit Midwest Health & Wellness and learn about medical weight loss, hormone therapy and aesthetic care at their facility, 2805 W. 47th Ave. Noon-6 p.m. Giveaways include Latisse, Lipo B injections and gift certificates. We will be serving food and drinks as well. KCHormone.com or 913.262.1992.

Kauffman Center

March 28

Don’t miss the 10th anniversary celebration of Park University’s International Center for Music. The debut concert for the ICM at Kauffman Center features international artists Stanislav Ioudenitch and Behzod Abduraimov in a touching homage to Cliburn, a treasured American pianist who passed away in 2013. Tickets at Kauffman Box Office, 816.994.7222 or KauffmanCenter.org.

HBA Home Show Bartle Hall

A 66-year tradition, the Home Show together with the Flower, Lawn and Garden Show showcases new opportunities and choices for homeowners to get a jump on spring home and garden projects. This year HGTV Dream Home Giveaway Host Monica Pedersen shares her interior design expertise. Don’t miss this event! KCHomeShow.com.

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r

o

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sponsors

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Animals & Animal Care Liberty Meadows Training Center (816) 547-0602 liberty-meadows.com

Art & Photography

Art & Frame Warehouse (913) 385-9199 afwkc.com

Automotive

Auto Motor Plex Kansas City (913) 489-7223 automotorplexkc.com Hendrick Buick GMC Cadillac (816) 942-7100 hendrickbuickgmccadillac.com Santa Fe Tow Service (913) 894-5201 santafetowservice.com

Charities & Fundraisers

e

st

The Barstow School (816) 942-3255 barstowschool.org

Entertainment & Recreation Kansas City Zoo (816) 513-5800 jazzookc.org

Reno's Power Sports KC (816) 942-8900 renoscanam.com

Home Communities Cottonwood Canyon (913) 492-4444 cottonwoodcanyon.info Falcon Valley (913) 780-9004 falconvalleyhomes.com

Home Design & Furnishings

Design Connection Inc. (913) 851-8776 designconnectioninc.com Frontier Furniture, LLC (913) 897-8995 frontierfurniturellc.com Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com

Home Services

Amber Roofing (816) 994-2556 amberroofingkc.com

The Culture House (913) 393-3141 culturehouse.com

Deco-Crete (816) 682-8943

Fashion & Accessories

Granite Garage Floors (913) 752-9906 granitegaragefloors.com

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

City Union Mission 816-474-9380 cityunionmission.org

Tivol (800) 829-1515 tivol.com

Dentists & Orthodontics

Financial Services & Planning

H2O Orthodontics (913) 782-7223 h2orthodontics.com

Your Nutrition Kitchen (913) 777-5007 ynkmeals.com

LuLu & Mimi's Cleaning (913) 649-6022 luluandmimis.com Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com

Searcy Financial Services (913) 814-3800 searcyfinancial.com

North Kansas City Iron & Metal (816) 471-3244 northkansascityiron.com

Tide Dry Cleaners (913) 239-8473 tidedrycleaners.com

Waddell & Reed (913) 491-9202 donnatilden.wrfa.com

Insurance

Education

Health & Wellness

Dry Cleaners

Ivy League Learning Center (913) 547-4060 ivyleagelc.com Kansas State University (913) 541-1220 olathe.k-state.edu Park University (816) 746-2579 park.edu/enroll

Healthy Meals Inc (816) 587-6325 healthymealsinc.com

Reflections Body Solutions Body Contouring and Medical Spa (913) 322-3433 reflectionsbodysolutions.com

64 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

The Apollo Group Inc. (816) 582-6409 apollo-insurance.com

Medical Clinics & Facilities

Aesthetistry Med Spa (913) 491-9777 aesthetistrymedspa.com After Hours Pediatrics (913) 825-4700 after-hourspediatrics.com

KC Body Contouring/ Vein Centers for Excellence of KC (913) 451-8346 kcbodycontouring.com Midwest Restorative Health (913) 850-5700 restorative-health.com Shawnee Mission Medical Center (913) 676-7777 shawneemission.org/ heartaware

Real Estate

Better Homes & Garden (913) 661-6799 krisg.kansascityhomes.com 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

Restaurants, Food & Beverage

Gaslight Grill & Back Room (913) 897-3540 gaslightgrill.com North Italia (913) 232-5191 northitaliarestaurant.com

Senior Living & Services

Park Meadows Memory Care (913) 712-9186 parkmeadowsseniorliving.com

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

Best of Overland Park Awards: Art Gallery 2013

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Family Owned & Operated For Over 50 Years

1222 Iron St, North Kansas City, MO 64116 (816) 471-3244 www.northkansascityiron.com Receiving Hours 8am - 4pm (Monday thru Friday) 8am - Noon (Saturday) March 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 65

Parting Thoughts

An Artist in the Hand Words Anne Potter Russ

I

thought I could just…become an artist. It looked that easy, at least in my house growing up, anyway. My dad had a degree in classical music theory and composition. He could play the piano, create pen and ink drawings, carve wood and do needlepoint. My mom earned her degree in theatre set designing. She could recite poetry, do needlepoint, write and draw, and had a wicked sense of humor. How could I not have inherited at least one of those skills?

Well, we were about to find out that sometimes genetics play cruel tricks on parents. For the next decade my father set out to discover my hidden talents. “I’m going to teach you to play the piano,” my dad beckoned. For some reason the grand piano had ended up in the basement, which I was convinced, was haunted by bears (don’t ask). So, trembling… down I went week after week with one piece of “easy” classical sheet music and my very impatient teacher. It took about a month to figure out that I didn’t know an ebony from an ivory and had no inclination to sort things out.

“Oil paints!” he excitedly pronounced as I opened my Christmas gift. I promptly spilled turpentine on my bedroom carpet. But, I was excited by the colors and the texture of the paint. Too bad the end result looked like a sea-sick cow on a brown farm with yellow spots.

“Sculpture, my dear…wax sculpture! That’s what we are going to do together, with a professional teacher!” Off we went, just me and my artistic genius dad, to Mission, Kansas, to see Elma – the premiere sculpture and painting teacher of the ‘70s. Little did I know that wax sculpture was an Olympic sport. We each received a heavy 66 Johnson County Lifestyle | March 2014

brown slab of hard wax, over which we hung a light bulb with a wire cage to soften things up a bit. We cut, carved, smooshed and morphed the wax out of the slab and onto a wire form filled with paper towels. If I couldn’t paint a normal cow, how on earth was I supposed to make a head, a face and fine features out of ten pounds of hard wax? Meanwhile, Leonardo Da Vinci over there was refining the eyelashes of his creation. Elma was being tested at every turn, and really all I had to show for my efforts was a wax-encrusted light bulb that was surely a fire hazard.

I didn’t exactly fail sculpture, but let’s just say that the milkshakes after the evening lessons were the best part. So, three strikes later, I was practically deemed someone else’s child. My school art teacher didn’t have much more luck. My yarn-on-paper flower gave new meaning to the words, “gluey mess.” She didn’t even try to disguise her disgust. “Oh, honestly, Anne…can’t you keep the glue out of your classmates’ hair?”

Today, I appreciate the arts with the best of them. I am a proud supporter of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Quality Hill Playhouse, the Kansas City Symphony, The Kansas City Ballet, The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Kansas City Rep, The Jazz District at 18th and Vine, and The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum…just to name a few of our local treasures. I may not be capable of drawing a stick figure, but I can admire the talents of others. Oh, wait – I never tried interpretive dance…

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