Johnson County, KS May 2019

MAY 2019

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

women

C e l e b r at i n g

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2019 SALES DIRECTOR

Frank Flores | frank.flores@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

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

Paul Versluis | paul.versluis@lifestylepubs.com

Letter from the Editor THIS MONTH WE ARE CELEBRATING WOMEN, AND I AM VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE SO MANY WONDERFUL WOMEN IN MY LIFE WHO HAVE LEFT THEIR MARK ON ME. However, sometimes people come into our lives who inspire us so greatly that it changes who we are and who we strive to be. For me,

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Riley Cowing, Natalie Fieleke, Allison Gibeson, Alan Goforth, Kasim Hardaway, Lisa Moyer, Tammy Richards CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paul Versluis, Janie Jones, Jason Domingues Photography

that person is my sister, Julie.

Julie is a woman who consistently looks for ways to build people up and discover their value. She has a heart for the hurting, the lost and the outcast. She sees beauty in every person she meets, regardless of who they are. Her impact on others is enormous, and I can’t fathom the number of people she has influenced.

Julie has spent so much of her life volunteering in the inner city with urban youth and working with the homeless community. She has such a heart for kids in the juvenile system and has mentored so many teens who have lost their way or experienced trauma. She sees people for their best not their worst and has a gift for knowing a person’s potential and making them feel valued.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

Besides loving people without judgment or hesitation, she works hard to make purposeful connections with those who encounter her. I am constantly inspired by how she lives her life.

In this month’s issue, we are sharing stories of women in our community who have made a mark in one way or another. We also are recognizing a few local female entrepreneurs and women who are finding ways to help others to give back to the

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

community. They have inspired me, and I hope you enjoy learning about them and feel inspired, too! I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the inspirational women in your own life and reach out to them to thank them for the impact they have made. You won't regret it.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Angela Broockerd, Editor Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON DOMINGUES PHOTOGRAPHY 8

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

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

H O N E S T. L O C A L . E X P E RT S. F A M I L Y

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Y E A R S

O W N E D

S I N C E

C O M B I N E D

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E X P E R I E N C E

Y O U C A N ' T C H O O S E Y O U R F A M I LY ,

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2019

FEATURES 12 Crudité anyone?

Usher in Spring with seasonal produce

20 “Refillable, Love Mom” How Entrepreneur Judy Nelson Created KC’s Own Midnight Espresso Coffee Liqueurs

28 100 + Women Who Care Community of Women Making a Local Impact Together

40 12

40 Design with Zing Decorating with Bold Color

28

DEPARTMENTS

20

8

Lifestyle Letter

12

Food & Wine

16

Our Town

20 Local Limelight 27 Realty Report 28 Giving Back 34 Open House 40 Renovate & Refine 44 Driver’s Notebook 48 Lifestyle Calendar 50 Local’s Choice

beautiful HOMES views SCENIC

SP EC H O M ES AVA I L A B L E 27 7 2 W. 162 N D T ER R ACE O P EN S AT U R DAY - S U N DAY 1 2-4 P. M .

Let tiann Southerland River Ridge Communities Specialist

O R BY A P P O I N TM EN T B l u e Va l l ey S c h o o l s , E s t ate S ize l ot s a l s o av a i l a b l e , “ F i n a l P h a s e ”

9 1 3 -3 3 3 - 0 5 1 1 | L E T T I A N N @ L E T T I A N N . C O M | W W W . L E T T I A N N . C O M | R I V E R R I D G E K S . C O M

FOOD & WINE

crudite, anyone?

ADD FRESH PRODUCE AND A POP OF COLOR TO YOUR TABLE

NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH ITS NOTTOO-DISTANT COUSIN, CHARCUTERIE, CRUDITÉ HIGHLIGHTS FRESH PRODUCE—IT IS A FRENCH TERM THAT TRANSLATES TO “RAW THINGS.” The produce featured in crudité can be sliced or whole, typically assembled on a board or platter, served with complementary dips.

It is the perfect way to usher in spring, bringing seasonal goods from farm to table.

If you frequently entertain or are in search of new ways to wow your guests, a crudité board can be simple, quick and cost-effective. Think of it as a labor of love--part art, part organization and part self-expression.

There are absolutely zero rules for building the ideal crudité board, but these six tips will help you along your way.

12

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

ARTICLE KASIM HARDAWAY | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

+ Vibrant and robust produce

+ Don’t restrict yourself to just

+ To keep the vegetables crisp,

will be both visually attractive

vegetables! While the produce

fresh and unblemished, refrain

and appetizing. As you gather

should be the star, allow a few

from preparing more than two

the vegetables for your crudité,

supporting roles to join the stage.

hours prior to serving your guests.

think of the different preferences

Crackers

seeds,

While a little lemon water will help

your guest may have. Incorporate

olives and nuts for nibbling, herbs

preserve most vegetables, crudité

something

for added greenery—allow your

shines at its brightest when pre-

imagination to roam free.

pared shortly before enjoying.

+ Dips can be overwhelming or

+ When

crunchy,

something

mild and something with a bite. All

for

dipping,

these different qualities will have a synergistic effect for your board.

finding

the

perfect

underwhelming. Make sure to pro-

alcohol pairings for your crudité

+ As you build your board or plat-

vide your guests with contrasting

board, it is crucial to select some-

ter, start with the largest items, and

options that can provide varying

thing that will not overpower but

end with the smallest. Working in

flavor profiles. May I suggest a

enhance the freshness and qual-

this order will allow you to com-

Creamy Avocado Dip and Beet

ity of your vegetables.

pletely fill the board, resulting in a

Tahini Faux Hummus? Continue

lush, bountiful appearance.

reading to find the recipes.

CONTINUED >

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

13

FOOD & WINE

(C ON TI N U ED)

t he s pre ad

beet-tahini faux hummus serves 4 - 6 Ingredients + 1 pound beets (3-4 medium beets) + 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice + 1/2 cup tahini + 1/2 teaspoon garlic + salt + extra virgin olive oil Directions 1. Peel and chop beets into small cubes.

Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Place beet cubes on aluminum foil and enclose. Put aluminum foil packet on baking sheet and cook beets until tender.

2. Once tender, remove beets from aluminum foil packet and allow beets to cool. Place beets, tahini, lemon juice and garlic in food processor. Process while slowly adding 1/4 cup olive oil through opening of food processor. Transfer to serving bowl then season generously with salt. Allow to sit covered for at least 30 minutes before eating.

t he drin k s

3. Serve with a light drizzle of oil.

the pa iri ng list

creamy avocado dip

Wine Pairings for this CruditĂŠ Grazing Board are featured from St. James Winery.

serves 4-6

Founded by the Hofherr family in the Meramec Highlands region of Missouri in 1970, it is celebrating 49 years as a family-owned and operated winery. Located in

Ingredients

St. James, it is Missouri’s largest, best-selling and most awarded winery.

+ 2 avocados + 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

FRIENDSHIP SCHOOL WHITE, ST. JAMES WINERY

VIGNOLES, ST. JAMES WINERY

+ Aromas of grapefruit and marma-

vors of marmalade and pineapple

lade with fresh, crisp green apple

with a crisp, clean finish. A lively, easy

and lemon flavors. A delightful white

drinking white wine.

blend with a touch of sweetness and

+ Made with estate-grown vignoles grapes.

crisp acid which lingers for a long, satisfying finish. + Made with proprietors blend of Midwestern grape varieties.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

+ Floral and fruity aromas with fla-

+ 1 teaspoon onion powder + squeeze of lime + salt Directions 1. In a medium sized bowl, mash avocado until smooth.

2. Squeeze in juice from lime (to taste) then mix in garlic powder and salt.

3. Place in refrigerator until ready to serve.

4. Set out 30 minutes prior to serving for ideal temperature.

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OUR TOWN

G i v i n g t o G ro w ARTICLE RILEY COWING | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

STEMS: A GARDEN SOIRÉE, AN ANNUAL FUNDRAISER, ALLOWS ATTENDEES TO BASK IN ART, MUSIC AND COMMUNITY WHILE CONTRIBUTING TO THE GROWTH OF LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

A m i d t h e i n t e n s i t y o f a K a n s a s C i t y w i n t e r, c o m p l e t e w i t h i c y r o a d s a n d ( t o o m a n y ) i n c h e s o f s n o w, o n e c a n only imagine an evening spent outside enjoying their green, lush surroundings.

On June 22, Stems: A Garden Soirée is the (perhaps long-

In addition to the event, the Foundation has launched a

awaited) opportunity to not only savor warm weather

“Growing to Inspire” capital campaign which will provide

and explore beautiful gardens but to also participate in a

funding for a new, 22,000-square-foot visitor center at the

fundraiser. Emily Lane, communications manager for the

Overland Park Arboretum. Lane mentions their plans include

Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park, says that

“additional parking, new outdoor spaces (gardens, reflecting

people choose to attend the event for many reasons.

pools, a new pond, event terraces, and a great lawn) and the

“The first of which is that is it a wonderful party,” Lane

first phase of the new Sculpture Garden and amphitheater.

says. “Who doesn’t love to have a glass of wine on a warm

“In total, the plan will improve 38 acres and will be an

summer night in a bucolic setting? We find this event is

incredible addition to an already beautiful space,” Lane

a great reminder of all the [Overland Park] Arboretum &

says. “We hope to break ground in late 2019.”

Botanical Gardens has to offer. It’s open 364 days a year,

Stems: A Garden Soirée has something for everyone to

and there’s always something new to see or do. People

enjoy—food from various local restaurants, fireworks after

who attend also love knowing they are supporting import-

the sunset, music and bars with wine, beer and cocktails—

ant places in our community, and giving back.”

all while enjoying lush surroundings at the Arboretum.

The event, hosted by the Foundation, began in 2008 and

“Attendees wander the paths taking in all the sights,

is its largest, annual fundraiser. According to Lane, pro-

sounds, and smells and receive a hand-painted sou-

ceeds from the evening support Deanna Rose Children’s

venir wine glass at entry from which to imbibe their

Farmstead, the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical

drinks of choice,” Lane describes. “It also serves as a

Gardens and public art programs in Overland Park.

wonderful opportunity for networking as we have more

“All of these causes benefit from private support to oper-

than 2,000 attendees!”

ate, so the Foundation is integral to their success,” Lane says.

While the event itself offers so much to soak up in one

“We have a tremendous group of sponsors who choose to

summer evening, it is also an opportunity to slow down

devote funds to supporting these worthwhile causes.”

and indulge in your surroundings.

16

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

CONTINUED >

“Attendees wander the paths taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells and receive a hand-painted souvenir wine glass at entry from which to imbibe their drinks of choice.�

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

17

OUR TOWN

(CON TI N U ED)

“Personally, I love to wander the gardens and pathways with my cold glass of white wine, listen to the music as well as the chirping crickets, and meet new people,” Lane says. “In a world where you have to make so many decisions each day, at Stems you get to relax and enjoy and let the event lead you.”

18

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

Freedom lies in being bold. — Robert Frost

windows millwork cabinets hardware bold...

LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

“Refillable, Love Mom”

HOW ENTREPRENEUR JUDY NELSON CREATED KC’S OWN MIDNIGHT ESPRESSO COFFEE LIQUEURS

RESPECT THE FACT THAT BACK IN THE ‘70S WHEN GOOD COFFEE LIQUEURS WERE STILL A GLEAM IN THE EYE OF BEAN MIXOLOGISTS, JUDY NELSON WAS BREWING HER SMALL BATCHES ON HER STOVETOP AND BOTTLING IT FOR LOVED ONES WITH HANDMADE LABELS MARKED, “REFILLABLE, LOVE MOM.” Her homemade coffee liqueur included good vodka (instead of the usual rum or tequila); rich espresso that tasted like progress from the future; and a few secret ingredients with names that will remain redacted. What’s more, Nelson refused to include anything artificial, and that’s saying something in the ‘70s.

After years of being told that she needed to bring her recipe to market to spread the love, this Liqueur Entrepreneur agreed to let her family make it happen.

Seven years ago, Nelson’s daughter, Angela Sargent, and her husband, Matthew, helped their mom brand Midnight Espresso Coffee Liqueurs (ME), a fast-growing KC fan-favorite. The globally award-winning artisanal coffee liqueur company uses The Roasterie’s air-roasted, Fair Trade, specialty grade Arabica blended coffee and a prized artisanal vodka. Products are handcrafted in small batches using all-natural ingredients without additives, flavorings or colorings. Now licensed and available throughout Kansas and Missouri, ME is also on the verge of brimming into other states and venues.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

“This has become a family affair,” says Matthew Sargent. “Our children help at events such as Stems: A Garden Soirée; Moonshine Soirée on the Farm (Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead); and Brew at the Zoo & Wine Too.” To recreate the authentic taste of her original brew, Nelson took a taste sample to The Roasterie, resulting in a perfect blend of KC deliciousness.

“We partner with The Roasterie for our highest blend of coffee and then manufacture our product in Olathe utilizing a local vodka company,” Sargent says. “It’s a blessing to say, ‘Made locally with all-natural ingredients, gluten free and made in the USA.’” Sargent says that their close-knit blended family which includes six children, two grandchildren with one on the way, all live locally and all care about the business.

“Our daughter, Julea, was recently highlighted on Better Kansas City (KCTV), and all our kids are involved because they love to see the smile on their grandmother’s face when they share her creation with others,” Sargent says. “Nowadays, Mom gets to sit back and enjoy being the company’s retired emeritus.”

Sargent says the company went through many “marketing tastings” with family and friends to create recipes. But after Angela’s friends were up all night doing laundry and going to the gym at 3 a.m., the need for a decaf version became apparent.

“We made sure our decaf wasn’t diluted,” Sargent says. “In 2013, we entered the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

We competed against coffee liqueurs from all over the world and won a Silver (Decaf) and Bronze (Regular). As far as I know, we’re the only coffee liqueur company in the U.S. that makes a regular and decaffeinated coffee liqueur. This provides options for everybody.”

After 25 years in the medical business, Sargent is going full strength in serving his mother-in-law’s recipe to new audiences, whom they describe as the “friendliest, most outstanding people.”

Angela handles the finances of the business, and Matt handles operations, including meeting with restaurants about ME’s specialty drinks created with a local mixologist, such as Midnight Espresso Martini, Midnight Manhattan (Angela’s favorite), Black As Midnight (Matt’s favorite) and others listed on the website.

“People love this product,” he says. “The initial reaction is, ‘Wow this is so good and smooth.’ They’re even more surprised how good the decaf is. Whenever we do tastings, inevitably the women want to taste it first, and the men stay behind thinking, I don’t drink liqueurs, then they end up tasting it and telling us what they’d like to mix it with.”

Midnight Espresso Coffee Liqueurs can be enjoyed straight, over ice, mixed with other drinks, poured over ice cream, cakes and brownies or as an ingredient in baked goods such as Bundt cakes, scones or coffee cakes. The use of vodka is unusual because the best-selling coffee liqueur on the planet is rum-

www.MidnightEspressoLiqueur.com

based but also contains artificial flavors and sweeteners.

Instagram: @MidnightEspressoKC

“Its name is not allowed in our house,” Sargent jokes, “Our

FB: Midnight Espresso Coffee Liqueurs

product costs a little more to manufacture because it’s all natural,

matt@midnightespressoliqueur.com

but one taste makes all the difference.”

JABrew, LLC dba Midnight Espresso Coffee Liqueurs

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

21

Succession Planning: A Key to Your Long Term Financial Success

By Michael J. Searcy, ChFC®, CFP®, AIFA®

President & CEO at Searcy Financial Services, a Fee-Only, NAPFA Registered Advisory Firm

When you work with a financial advisor, you probably have the expectation that they’re going to maintain a big picture plan for your life, a plan that can even guide your loved ones in taking care of business after you’re gone. Would it then shock you to hear that 73% of financial advisors don’t have a written succession plan for their own business?

What will happen if your advisor retires or is no longer able to work? Will there be someone around to pick up the pieces? Or, will you be left to figure things out on your own?

Financial advisors who don’t plan for their own succession may be putting their clients’ success at risk.

One of my favorite things to help clients do is prepare and maintain a roadmap for themselves and their survivors, thereby knowing we’ve helped achieve continuity for them and their loved ones. I never want someone to feel unprepared or unable to function after the loss or incapacitation of a spouse, so I work to initiate thought and conversation to keep all parties engaged in the planning process.

But if I were gone? Not only could they turn to our entire team, since each client is never working with a single person, but they would also be aware that our succession plan that has been in place for several years means there are four other principals continuing to lead the firm.

In an interview with MarketWatch, financial advisor succession planning expert David Grau Sr. states, “Succession planning is about sustainability and serving one’s current clients and their children and grandchildren; it describes a process that lasts well beyond any single adviser’s career.”

What can you do to protect yourself?

1. Ask your advisor about their succession plan, where they’re at in the process, and what things would look like if they were gone 2. Ask to meet with their successor/s to make sure you’re comfortable with them 3. If the firm is being bought by another, make sure you know who you will be working with and if any contact information will change 4. Make sure each member of your family understands how the transition will happen Our Principals

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inspirational

WORDS TO LIVE BY A CONFIDENT WOMAN BUILDS OTHER WOMEN UP AND LOOKS FOR THEM TO EXCEL. These women enrich the encourage people to do the same. Their vibrant spirit inspires

Cheryl Bell

those around them to be the best version of themselves. We

PASTOR

lives of others through their unique passions and efforts and

sat down with them to find out a little bit about what inspires them and keeps them going.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Love in action. When love is shown by the way that we treat each other. When love is shown by the way that we serve God. When love is shown by the way we treat ourselves.

WHAT WOMEN DO YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR OWN LIFE AND WHY? I have always looked up to and been inspired by “Church Ladies,” those women in churches that I grew up in and have served (and am serving) who extended love to me.

They have been there for me and with me, in the ups and downs of life. This is so important to me because I grew up in a single parent family. My father had custody of my brother and I. My mother was not in the picture, even though I reconnected with her later in our lives. It was as though God would always provide women in my life that mentored me and loved me and were there for me. It started with Aunt Gwen, whose family opened up their home for my father, brother and me. She connected us to the church.

She set the example of a mother’s love that opened me up to receive love from others. I will be forever grateful to her!

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR YOUNG WOMEN OUT THERE WANTING TO SERVE AND GET INVOLVED IN THEIR COMMUNITY? Follow your passion. Pursue your goals, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t.

WHAT LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED IN LIFE THAT YOU WOULD HAVE LIKED TO TELL THE “YOUNGER YOU” FROM YEARS AGO? 1. Don’t be afraid to speak up and to express yourself.

2. God loves you for who you are.

3. Education is the right path to take.

4. Trust your gut–that is God. 5. Save your money.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

Ann Nelson HALF-MARATHON RUNNER—AGE 83 TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY. To begin with, as a child I was a bookworm and usually the shortest one in my class. What got into me at age 50 to become a jock? To enjoy the challenge and effort of running and bicycling? I give most of the credit to my family--my late husband, Stan, and our three sons and their families. Running and bicycling are themes in our lives. I've had the good fortune to run at least one marathon with each of my sons (although not at the same pace!), and when Stan retired as professor emeritus from KUMed, the two of us cycled self-contained across the U.S. We dipped our wheels in Puget Sound in Seattle. Sixtysix days and 3,724 miles later we dipped them in the Atlantic Ocean near Bar Harbor, Maine. We also cycled End-to-End in Great Britain and across Spain on the Camino de Santiago.

WHAT WAYS DO YOU STAY FIT? I say fit at age 83 by following a routine. Every morning I begin the day with a battery-charging cup of coffee, followed by lifting 6 lb. weights 40 times and doing 40 sit-ups. Then I go out for a run three times a week. The distance depends upon whether I am training for a race.

TELL ABOUT SOME OF THE RACES YOU HAVE PARTICIPATED IN. Although I've done several triathlons and duathlons, mara-

was successful many times. Now I am many times the only woman in the 80+

thons were my focus. I ran 20 of them until I turned 77 and then

age group, and my satisfaction comes from heeding Nike's famous slogan,

downsized to half-marathons which I continue to do, though

"Just Do It!" I am pleased that my entry fees go to support various charities. My

more slowly. Marathons can take one on adventures around

husband died of cancer, and every August I travel to Seattle to bicycle the Fred

the world--April in Paris, the white marble Olympic stadium

Hutchinson Cancer Center's "Obliteride" to raise funds to obliterate cancer.

in Athens, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the colorful leis in Honolulu, and Boston (where my age and running skills came

WHAT WOMEN DO YOU LOOK UP TO IN YOUR OWN LIFE AND WHY?

miraculously together at age 70 to qualify to run that awesome

There are so many inspiring women—among them are my three sisters

race). In those marathons I carried a small stuffed bear in a

who are all physically active. One is an artist, one a pillar of her community

fanny pack. Named Ted. E. Bear, the mascot for a 2nd grade

and one a published poet. I admire Heather Lee, Australia's 92-year-old

class, he won marathon medals, too, even from the Germans!

fastest woman, who feels that age is no barrier to anything. I deeply admire

Upon returning to the class, Ted. E. Bear "told" of his adven-

my running friend who has MS but never mentions it and keeps on running.

tures to the students and what he learned about each country.

DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO COMPETE?

NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN?

A combination of factors inspires me to compete. First, it's

Fortunate is the person who has a passion. However, a passion can be

the simplicity of running—a pair of shoes, a fresh morning and

developed with some nurturing. Choose a healthy diet and lots of exercise.

the goal of doing my best at something I enjoy. When I was

Walk fast or run at your own pace. Enjoy the beautiful sunrises. I am sure you,

younger and had competition in my age group, I tried hard and

too, will find that "running will add years to your life and life to your years."

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

25

Taking Care of Yourself is a Smart Investment We all know it’s important to see the doctor, but life gets busy.

If you haven’t seen an OB-GYN in some time, consider making an appointment with one of our doctors.

Visit us at Saint Luke’s South Hospital to see what makes us the best place to get women’s care.

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REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

JOHNSON COUNTY

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

LIONSGATE-THE LINKS

$1,599,000

$1,460,000

91%

120

4

5.2

LIONSGATE-THE LINKS

$1,270,000

$1,270,000

100%

210

6

4.1

SAGAMORE HILLS

$1,149,000

$1,127,000

98%

3

4

4.2

HIGHLANDS RANCH

$1,295,000

$1,094,000

84%

370

4

4.2

INDIAN FIELDS

$1,100,000

$1,075,000

97%

0

6

3.2

REINHARDT ESTATES

$950,000

$925,000

97%

43

5

4.1

HALLBROOK

$925,000

$905,000

97%

19

5

4.1

TUSCANY RESERVE

$899,950

$879,950

97%

143

4

3.1

WILSHIRE BY THE LAKE

$899,900

$867,000

96%

141

6

6.1

HALLBROOK

$875,000

$835,000

95%

131

4

3.1

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers. 2019 STATISTICS from 3/1/2019 TO 3/31/2019. * DOM=Days on Market

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

27

GIVING BACK ARTICLE TAMMY RICHARDS PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

100 + Women Who Care

There is no shortage of

However, one group, known as 100+Women Who Care Southland

organizations in the Kansas

In August 2017, close friends Carla Hayes, Debbie Swearingen,

City Metro area doing great work in the community.

KC, stands out with its unique approach to giving back.

Debbie Jackson, and Teresa Hinrichs Perrin got together to share a bottle of wine and some good conversation. They began discussing the different organizations they had volunteered with or served as board members of and the time commitments involved in those roles. They agreed that some people, themselves included, don’t always have a lot of time but still want to impact the community that they live in.

“It reminded me about the organization my sister and brother-inlaw in Iowa had told me about,” Perrin explains. “We all knew we had

28

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

contacts to share the concept of starting one here, and as we told people the response was positive. We decided to dive in.”

They began by doing research and contacted the original founders, who continue to support others wanting to start a group. They found more than 175 geographic 100+ Women Who Care alliances across the US and internationally, including one in Kansas City and another in the Cedar Creek neighborhood in Olathe, KS. “Each group has overall the same mission but may do unique things as to how they run meetings and administrate,” Perrin says.

They decided on the name, 100+ Women Who Care Southland KC. The group is for women who live, work or play in the Southland.

CONTINUED >

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

29

GIVING BACK

(CON TI N U ED)

They secured one of their employers, BHC RHODES

they get exposed to women who care about our

in Johnson County as a place to hold their meetings.

community, and though there is one ‘winner’

“It is the perfect place with a great interior layout

that gets the money, the other two have always

for both the business and networking we do,” Hayes

reported back that they also benefited by the

says. “Having easy access, parking, and a facility we

evening. Members meet and network with amaz-

can use all the time has been great for the members.

ing women in this area and have developed new

The goal is to make it as easy as possible for mem-

friendships and contacts. They get to be involved

bers to be involved and make a big difference while

in something that makes a BIG impact.”

keeping time and resource demand small.”

The concept of 100+Women Who Care is simple. Members gather for quarterly meetings where

To date, they have had presentations from 15 organizations, all great organizations and resources for our community.

501c3 organizations nominated by three mem-

“It is so humbling and gratifying to see that we

bers make a five-minute presentation. At the end

have heard from a diverse group of organizations

of those presentations, a vote is taken, and the

that serve different needs,” Perrin says. “Their

one receiving the highest number of votes is the

one common thread is that they truly make the

benefactor of the donations for that quarter. Each

lives of people better.”

member then writes a check for $100 directly to the non-profit selected.

100+ Women Who Care Southland KC is always looking for more women to join them.

“We know women are caretakers at heart and

Current membership ranges from women in their

love to be engaged in worthy causes,” Jackson

20’s through 70’s, including full-time moms, small

says, “yet we understand that time and dollar

and large business execs, teachers, entrepre-

resources can be limited. This gives an opportu-

neurs, or active retirees. 100+Women Who Care

nity for involvement of both time and financial

does not charge membership dues nor receive

resources that make a big impact.”

money. Every dollar goes directly from the mem-

Perrin continues, “It is great to get together with other women for 30 minutes four times a year and have the ability to put $40,000 into our community.”

ber to the 501c3 organization.

“A true shout out to our members and to those that want to join us,” Swearingen says. “It’s not

Nominations of the non-profit organizations can

about the founders of this group. The members

be made by any member by simply putting names in

are the ones that make it happen, and we just pro-

a basket. Once three names are drawn, they are put

vide the opportunity.”

into an envelope, and the rest are kept until the next meeting. Each organization is verified before being allowed to present to the members.

“For these non-profits and the members, it is a win, win, win,” Perrin says. “For the non-profit,

30

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

To find out more visit them on Facebook or contact teresa@specificiti.com.

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

31

Settlement on the courthouse steps Paid Advertisement

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At the same time, settlement is hard for most parties. The truth is that if settlement was easy, most would not be going through a divorce or family law matter in the first place.

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OPEN HOUSE

Building a unique home experience MATT ADAM OFFERS VARIETY AND STYLE IN JOHNSON COUNTY REAL ESTATE

OVER THE LAST TWO DECADES, MATT ADAM HAS EARNED A NAME FOR HIMSELF AS A DEVELOPER OF QUALITY UPSCALE NEIGHBORHOODS IN JOHNSON COUNTY WHO LOOKS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF HIS CUSTOMERS. “I look at what people like or want in a neighborhood, and then I figure out how to give it to them,” Adam says. “The biggest thing we have done that other neighborhoods will not do is place public artwork in common spaces that people can enjoy year-round. I think people take pride in our landscaping and public art work as it makes their neighborhood feel different than others as soon as you drive in.”

34

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON

In fact, if you drive around the 84-lot Mills Ranch development, one of Adam’s latest

“I look at what people like or want in a neighborhood, and then I figure out how to give it to them,� Adam says.

projects in south Overland Park, you will likely notice variety among the homes and landscaping that gives it the feel of having a park-like setting. In addition, public artwork including a Belgian draft horse that was commissioned from an artist in Colorado give it a distinct feel. Amenities such as a pool and a modern residence club with the architectural feel of an old-style barn provide a sense of community to the neighborhood.

Currently entering its second stage of development, lots are still available in Mills Ranch from $160,000 and up with an overall price range of $700,000 and up. The community is surrounded by trees on three sides and is near a park.

While Mills Ranch is one of the latest developments for Matt Adam and his namesake development company, he first began his career in selling land to developers for residential real estate. Given this background, becoming a developer himself was a natural next step.

His first upscale neighborhood was the 78-lot Glen Eagles neighborhood, which was completed in 2001. For the success of this neighborhood, he took concepts of architecture, landscaping, design and building requirements to attract buyers who appreciated the rules as well as detail and good looks in home design.

One of his largest developments to date has been Mills Farm, which includes 477 lots. Throughout the neighborhood, nine bronze horse statues are along streets that include landscaped islands, boulevards and roundabouts. Another recent development for the company is Mills Crossing, which

Photo credit Matt Nichols

includes 54 lots and has many of the same features as the other similar developments.

CONTINUED >

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

35

OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

Adam grew up working on Mills Dairy, his uncle’s farm in southern Johnson County, and that name and experience have become the inspiration for naming these developments.

Adam says he works with specific builders to initially build out some homes in his neighborhoods. Then he sells lots to customers who do build jobs, and these customers can choose from a pool of builders to design and complete their homes. He said this formula helps with variety, and they have a design review committee who reviews every plan and analyzes how the homes look on all four sides.

“We don’t try to tell everyone they have to be the same,” Adam says.

He’s also currently working on a more upscale project, Hallbrook East Village, which includes 33 lots parallel to State Line Road, and Arbor View, which is near Overland Park Arboretum and contains 129 lots. Arbor View has a lower price point than some of the other developments, with pricing in the mid-$400,000s to mid-$700,000s. A Blue Valley School District elementary school and a covered cabana with a fireplace round out the community.

In the future, Adam says he is trying to bring the same ideas to a lower price point to serve younger buyers. To this end, he has land near downtown Spring Hill where that may become a reality.

Given the variety and breadth of Matt Adam communities in southern Johnson County, his developments will likely have an impact for years to come on both the kinds of homes that come to the area as well as what buyers expect from these homes.

36

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

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Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

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39

RENOVATE & REFINE ARTICLE NATALIE FIELEKE | PHOTOGRAPHY JASON DOMINGUES PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME DESIGN WITH ZING

BRIGHT, BOLD COLOR IS MAKING A COMEBACK, AND LEE’S SUMMIT’S MELISSA RODGERS IS UP-AND-COMING FOR HER PUNCHY, ECLECTIC STYLING. Rodgers and her husband, Kevin, purchased their 1970’s era quad-level home four years ago. From the outside, it’s an unassuming beige residence, no different than any other on the quiet cul-de-sac. But step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a space that’s become both Melissa’s sanctuary and a creative showcase for her fun, laid-back style.

‘I don’t really have a recipe,” Rodgers says. “Just a dash of this and a dash of that. It’s my personality.”

40

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

When the Rodgers moved in, they took the entire first floor of the former rental down to the studs, opening up the kitchen, breakfast nook and dining areas and making room for their passion for entertaining. Both Melissa and Kevin are inspired by familial creativity; with artists, engineers, contractors and designers in their family trees. Kevin put himself through college as a carpenter. With this background, the couple approaches their personal home renovation and design with a can-do attitude and a shoestring budget.

But when their first-floor demolition revealed an electrical problem, much of the renovation budget was diverted to its repair. Rodgers invested in rich, wide-plank acacia flooring and gold West Elm Mobile chandeliers for the dining room, but the backsplash tile was nixed, so she stenciled and hand-painted the teal subway tiles that line the walls of her galley kitchen. She brings this budget-savvy approach to clients’ projects as well.

“I have a save and splurge mentality,” she says. “You do not need to spend a small fortune on everything in your home. Invest a little extra on timeless quality pieces.”

Rodgers, a former M.A.C. makeup artist and selftaught interior designer and stylist, has a natural affinity for adding pops of color through accessories while keeping a neutral background that’s flexible to change.

Her creativity extends to mixing higher-end pieces with budget ones, rustic furnishings with modern. For example, her sitting room is furnished witwvh a sleek white Ikea bureau, refashioned with painted legs across from a vintage chair. In the dining room, the Rodgers made their roughhewn farmhouse table out of salvaged wood and pipes and paired it with a set of chairs Melissa thrifted for $10 and re-upholstered.

Rodgers’ journey in taking her own home from shabby to chic has inspired her to launch and grow her own personal brand, Melissa B. Rodgers, Domestic Stylist.

She offers e-design services, in-person home design consultation and a-la-carte home styling services.

While Rodgers’ neighbors are already clued-in to her talents, Instagram has helped her gain a larger following outside her personal sphere. In the past year and a half, one of Rodgers clients’ homes was featured on Houzz, and her audience spiked from 700 to 7,000 Instagram followers.

Find Rodgers’ latest projects, tutorials and inspiration by following her on Instagram @mbrdomesticstyling and online at mbrdomesticstyling.com CONTINUED >

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

41

RENOVATE & REFINE

(CON TI N U ED)

TIPS FOR I N C O R P O R AT I N G CO LO R AN D PAT T E R N I N YO U R H O M E

1

Don’t place too many patterns on top of each other (break them up with solids).

The eye needs a place to rest, and too many patterns will feel chaotic.

2

Try to incorporate colors that are the same intensity. For example, don’t mix pastels with jewel tones. Different patterns often work together if they’re of the same hues.

3

Use at least three patterns in a room and vary the

4

Distribute patterns evenly throughout the room.

42

scale. One large, one medium and small, or one large and two different mediums for instance.

If the majority are all on one side of the room, the whole space will look unbalanced.

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

5

Patterns don’t have to be of different colors.

6

Decorating your home is not a life-or-death

Tone-on-tone patterns can still give the room depth and character while remaining elegant.

situation. Have fun with it!

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

43

DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK

Hometown roots and values make Robert Brogden THE AUTO DEALERSHIP OF CHOICE FOR JOHNSON COUNTY FAMILIES THE TEAM AT ROBERT BROGDEN BUICK GMC IN OLATHE

who have the highest levels of training, customer service and sat-

TREATS EACH CUSTOMER AS IF A FAMILY MEMBER WERE

isfaction. Out of 4,300 GM dealers nationwide, only 300 earn this

MAKING A PURCHASE OR NEEDING SERVICE. Managers, sales

honor. Our goal is to fix it proficiently and promptly, so our customers

staff and service technicians have lived and worked in the same

can get back to doing what they need to do.”

community as their customers for more than a quarter century.

Nowhere is this commitment to family more apparent than in

“We are not a large corporate group with a board of directors

the company’s approach to young drivers. The dealership prides

based in another state,” General Manager Craig Blacklidge says.

itself in helping families provide safe, reliable transportation

“Robert Brogden and his family are involved in the community. He gives his time, resources and donations to the Olathe school system and the Olathe Health Charitable Foundation, just to name two. Many of our staff support the community by volunteering, coaching youth sports and ministering in their churches.”

Robert Brogden is a full-service dealership that sells new Buick and GMC models and certified pre-owned GM vehicles, with a large selection of used cars and trucks.

They also service all makes and models, from routine oil changes to major repairs.

They were recently named 2018 Buick Dealer of the Year and are the #1 GM dealer in the state of Kansas.

when their teens begin driving.

“We are not a large corporate group with a board of directors based in another state,” General Manager Craig Blacklidge says. “Robert Brogden and his family are involved in the community.”

Customers love Brogden’s “upfront pric-

“Buicks have five-star crash ratings with the U.S. government, and most GMCs do also,” Blacklidge says. “Before we sell a GM certified preowned vehicle, we ensure it’s safe for a family by giving it a thorough, 187-point inspection and making sure all items needing to be addressed get the highest quality of repair and genuine GM parts if needed.

“We also encourage the use of the GM teen driving application, which allows parents to monitor and restrict the operation and features of the vehicle. GM’s On-Star also offers unparalleled safety and connection to live persons who can help if a teen gets lost or needs directions. On-Star also offers automatic

ing” model, where they know exactly what a vehicle will cost, without the stress of haggling for the best deal. Stress happens when car, truck

crash notification to police, fire and rescue.”

Now is an ideal time for great deals on both new and used vehicles.

or SUV buyers go to a dealership and get misled or perhaps even lied

“Spring means great incentives, and it’s also known as sell-

to,” Blacklidge says. “We don’t allow that. Our goal is to respect the busy

ing season in our business,” Blacklidge says. “We are extremely

lives of our customers and provide them with a no-hassle, no-pres-

aggressive and offer the best deals in the springtime, because we

sure experience. But don’t just take our word for it! We encourage you

have to move out the units we did not sell in that unbelievably harsh

to read our reviews on sites like Google, Facebook and DealerRater.”

winter here in Kansas.”

In contrast to large national chains, which frequently never see their customers again after they drive away, Brogden strives to build a relationship with customers for the life of their car.

Spring also is the season for Mother’s Day, graduation and other special occasions, and a reliable car is an unforgettable gift.

“We are also proud to give exclusive discounts to first-time buyers,

“We have been designated a General Motors Certified Service Elite Dealer two years in a row,” he says. “This is awarded to dealers

grads, teachers, military and first responders,” he says.

For more information, please visit www.robertbrogden.com.

ARTICLE ALAN GOFORTH 44

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

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MAY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

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more information and tickets visit

size of 8.

EAST HILL SINGERS CONCERT

is a Kansas City-based 501(c)(3)

midwestchamberensemble.org.

The Midwest Chamber Ensemble

9948 Metcalf Avenue

organization dedicated to the per-

INMATES ARE OUT OF PRISON

formance of Chamber Orchestra

AND COMING TO A CHURCH

and Chamber Ensemble music of

IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! The

the classical tradition.

Correctional Facility and volunteer singers from the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. This choir, under the direction of Dr. Joseph Kern, has been performing inside and outside the prison walls for 20 years.

2019 BIG SLICK BLOCK PARTY & STREET FAIR Prairiefire

8 AM – 2 PM. There will be food, there

East Hill Singers is a men’s choir consisting of inmates at Lansing

JUN 8

16

will be drinks, there will be entertain-

BLUES AND BBQ AT VISTA 154

celebrity guests as they walk the red

Vista 154 at Ironhorse GC

ment and more. Plus, join us to cheer on our Children’s Mercy kids and our carpet before heading into Pinstripes for the Big Slick Bowling Tournament.

Please join us for a night with Blues and BBQ. The Heather Newman

11

Band will be performing from 7:30pm

2019 HERITAGE PARK 5K, 10K & 15K

one free cocktail or beverage of your

to 10pm with brisket dinner provided

by Keith Nebel BBQ. Tickets include choice $15 in advance and $20 at the

Heritage Park

door! Please contact Ironhorse Golf

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran

Club for your tickets (913)685-4653

looking to add some more miles to your trusty running shoes or a first timer interested in gaining a little experience while having fun among a stunning landscape, we have something for everyone! Athletes of

48

17 DOGS NIGHT OUT

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to

Downtown Overland Park

see included in our Calendar sec-

all ages and ability can join the fam-

Downtown Overland Park is going

tion. Submissions are accepted

ily-friendly event by participating in

to the dogs! Grab your four-legged

via

either the 5K, 10K or 15K.

family members for a fun night

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com.

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

the

Contact

Us

tab

at

Visit Us Online

ffective E Communication

Strategies f or Persons with Dementia

Wednesday, May 29 • 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Join us at Cedar Lake Village f or this informative presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association.

To register, call (913) 780-9916.

Keep up with us online when you are on the go.

Past Issues

Current Articles

Business Directory

S E A R C H FO R YO UR COMMUN I TY MAG A Z I NE AT

lifestylepubs.com/magazines

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

May 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

49

LOCAL’S CHOICE

Mother's Day Gift Finds #1

#2 MOTHER'S DAY IS A DAY TO HONOR THE WOMEN IN OUR LIFE. When selecting the perfect Mother's Day gift, bigger isn't always better.

Thoughtfulness can go a long way, and we are sharing some of our favorite gift ideas. If you are buying for a busy mom who could use a break, there are some great meal delivery services available. Hello Fresh, Blue Apron, and Sun Basket are among some options,

#3

#4

but there are many to choose from.

Don't forget to check Groupon for a good deal on these. For the woman who needs to take a break, an experience-based gift could be a great choice. A day at the spa, a stay at a local bed and breakfast or tickets to an upcoming event are good options, too.

Homemade gifts are always special and really show that extra thought was put into the gift. Try making a miniature herb garden and personalize the container with paint or labels. Many area

#5

#6

craft stores have labels and accents to include that look great and are easy to add to any planter. When in doubt, getting the mom in your life a nice accessory is always a win. Often times moms don't splurge on the extras for themselves, so a fun purse, summer tote or piece of jewelry is an easy choice.

The presentation can be just as special as the gift itself. Try wrapping the gift in plain butcher paper and use simple twine or a fun ribbon to dress it up. Print copies of a few old, meaningful photos and attach to the top of the

1. Meal Delivery Kits make cooking dinner easy. | 2. Hatchery House Bed & Breakfast in Weston. Give the gift of time with a weekend in Weston and enjoy the wine tour. https://www.hatcherybb.com |

package. This gives a very personal look that shows you went the extra mile.

3. Mini Herb Garden is the perfect gift for the woman in your life that likes to cook. Family Tree Nursery carries

Don't forget the card! Mothers work

planters and fresh herbs. | 4. Rattan Mini Circle Bag Urban Outfitters | 5. Altar'd State Panama Hat

so tirelessly for their families, and they

altardstate.com/shop/accessories/hats | 6. Coki Bijoux KC Charm Necklace Made in Kansas City madeinkc.co

want to hear what you love about them.

50

Johnson County Lifestyle | May 2019

Kansas City, KS / Kansas City, MO

Better Living By Design

R. DES IGNS

Kimberlie J. Rice | www.RDesignsSite.com | (913) 777-1514