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
1 2 0
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
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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. 14
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.
20
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.
24
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
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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
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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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47
MAY
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
3
KINDEST KANSAS CITIAN AWARDS 400 East Sixth Street
For 29 years, Synergy Services has been celebrating the ripple effect of kindness with Kindest Kansas Citian Awards Dinner. The evening of dinner, drinks and entertainment cul-
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out for May's Local Life 3rd Friday
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event from 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
HeritagePark5K10K15K
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12 MIDWEST CHAMBER ENSEMBLE: WARM-HEARTED CHAMBER MUSIC
MARVEL CINEMATIC UNIVERSE TRIVIA NIGHT Pinstripes Overland Park
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performances of music by Edward
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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