Issuu

Lee’s Summit

LeesSummitLifestyle.com

FEBRUARY 2018

the

™

MAKER'S issue

LOTAWANA: LABOR OF LOVE FOR LOCAL FILM-MAKERS

MADISON STREET LEATHER

PAINTING PETUNIAS

Still the One

for You.

For over 30 years,ToniTygart has helped families like yours buy and sell homes in Jackson County, especially in Lee’s Summit and the area lake communities. That’s thousands of transactions, and thousands of happy families (4,883 to be exact). You know which transaction is the most important to Toni? The next one. With you. Selling your home? Buying a new one? Put the unique expertise of the area’s top real estate professional on your team.

Talk to Toni...today!

4243 NE Lakewood Way, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

Find your next home at tonitygart.com

816.373.5558 | Direct 816.591.0275 SMS | tonitygart@tonitygart.com

KANSAS CITY

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816-844-6102 3303 MAIN STREET GRANDVIEW, MO 64030

Summit Christian Academy

1:30-3 p.m. February 23, March 2, April 13 or May 4 Campus Visit Days

RSVP to Kristy LeCoque at 816-525-1480. 1450-1500 SW Jefferson Lee’s Summit MO 64081 summit-christian-academy.org

Y M E

8:30-10 a.m. February 22 or 23 Early Education Previews

8:30-10 a.m. February 8 or 9 Kindergarten Previews

M M I

Join us for one of the following events!

A C

Excellent Academics Christian Training Compassionate Environment • Ranked a Top 5 Kansas City Metro Private School by the Kansas City Business Journal • Serving 763 students in preschool-12th grade • Standardized test scores 28% above national average • Accredited by ACSI and AdvancED • Member of MSHSAA • 36-Acre Campus in Lee’s Summit “As parents we know, without reservation, that our girls are learning in an environment where they feel loved and safe. We cherish the Christianity and love that SCA teachers and staff have shown us.” SCA Parents

CASUAL MEET YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE AGENTS TWO DRINK COUPONS | LOCAL LENDER AVAILABLE MARCH 29TH FROM 4:30-6:30 AT LAKEWOOD LOCAL

(816) 877-8700

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME IS A HUGE LIFE DECISION.

WE TAKE THAT VERY SERIOUSLY. ( 8 1 6 ) 6 9 9 -7 5 6 6

ASHLE YKENDRIC K.C O M

WI TH EVERY LIS T ING WE IN CLUDE:

P ro f essio nal D esi gn Consul t t h rou gh Ba l a n ce Ph ot og r a p h y + De s i g n www. b a l a n c e f o to . c o m Pro fessi onal Phot ogr aph y |Ta rg e t e d S oci a l Me d i a Ma r ke t i n g C a mp a i g n s

LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2018 PUBLISHER

Laura Paszkiewicz | Laura@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com

Letter from the Editor OUR FEBRUARY ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO MAKERS AND ENTREPRENEURS, WHICH IS ALWAYS A FAVORITE THEME OF MINE. It is so interesting to me to hear about what inspires people to go after a dream or to create something that is unique that they have put a piece of their heart and soul into—something that is their own that they share with the world.

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

Paul Versluis | Paul.Versluis@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Alan Goforth, Judy Goppert, Haley Paszkiewicz, Jenny Wolff CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Trevor Hawkins, Janie Jones, Paul Versluis

I have noticed a common thread amongst all of the small businesses, makers and entrepreneurs that I have had the pleasure of meeting or talking to, regardless of how different they may be from one another, and that is they all had the tenacity to take a chance and go for it. They put themselves out there and took the risk. It has given me perspective on the saying “you are capable of whatever you put your mind to” regardless of how cliché it sounds. Obviously, there is a lot more that goes into creating something, but the overall theme I notice every single time is they just went for it. Honestly, this mentality can really be applied to more than just business: getting that degree, making that life change, listening to that inner voice that tells you that you are meant for so much more or that you are supposed to make an impact in an area that may be outside of your comfort zone. Whatever it may be, if it is something you are passionate about, life is too short to let it pass you by. I am a dreamer by nature and am constantly thinking of ideas and startups, but I forget about

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CHIEF SALES OFFICER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

half of them. They simply don’t mean enough to me. Every once in a while, I come up with an idea that fills me with such fervor that I can’t let go of it. Last winter, that was the case for me as I dreamt up an idea of a kindness challenge in middle schools. I have always had a sensitivity and passion for teenagers that are hurting and have always had a heart to reach out to them in some way. It started as a little idea, but I could not let go of it, so I knew I was

PUBLISHER SUPPORT EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

Steven Schowengerdt Matthew Perry DeLand Shore Brad Broockerd Sara Minor Janeane Thompson Nicolette Martin Victoria Perry Lindsey Howard Chad Jensen Cyndi Harrington Alicia Huff Adella Wrisinger Jessica Soetaert Cyndi King Dana Rudolph Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek Melanie Carlisle Randa Makeen Michael O’Connell Scott Lavigne

Angela Broockerd, Editor Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER Lotawana By Trevor Hawkins with Mammoth Productions 8

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

LeesSummitLifestyle.com

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Lee’s Summit 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 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Feeling like you paid too much in taxes this year? Contact your financial advisor today to learn about investing strategies that could benefit you.

www.edwardjones.com ThomCall Schlosser, CFP®any of our financial advisors in the Lee’s Summit or visit Member SIPC area. Financial Advisor To find an Edward Jones office near you, visit www.edwardjones.com.

FAP-1942K-A

192 Northwest Oldham Parkway Lees Summit, MO 64081 816-525-0770

Kevin Haines Financial Advisor

Matt Knehans, AAMS Financial Advisor

Ryan Barber, AAMS Financial Advisor

559 SE Melody Lane Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

120 SW 2nd Street - Suite 102 Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

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816-554-9077

816-554-0074

kevin.haines@edwardjones.com

matt.knehans@edwardjones.com

ryan.barber@edwardjones.com

Anne Pedersen, CFP® Financial Advisor

Matt Sibbing, AAMS Financial Advisor

Scott Wall Financial Advisor

615 NE Woods Chapel Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

3500 N.E. Ralph Powell Rd. Suite C Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

816-554-7446

816-347-8375

3500 N.E. Ralph Powell Rd. Suite E Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

anne.pedersen@edwardjones.com

matt.sibbing@edwardjones.com

scott.wall@edwardjones.com

Brian Sandy Financial Advisor

Mark Sandy Financial Advisor

Thom Schlosser, CFP® Financial Advisor

200 SE Douglas Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

192 NW Oldham Parkway Lee’s Summit, MO 64081

mark.sandy@edwardjones.com

thom.schlosser@edwardjones.com

816-358-2323

brian.sandy@edwardjones.com

816-358-2323

816-478-0053

816-272-0460

816-525-0770

INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2018

FEATURES 18 Painting Petunias Creative Company that Inspires

24 Persaud Creative Celebrating Life Stories

24 18

30 Hollywood in the Heartland: ‘Lotawana’ is Labor of Love for Local Filmmakers

DEPARTMENTS 8

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Locally owned

Artist’s Palette

29 Realty Report 38 Local Limelight 44 DIY 46 Lifestyle Calendar 50 Local’s Choice

We are now a

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AROUND TOWN

CPA JULIA HAMPTON ADDS RAYMORE OFFICE, NEW EMPLOYEE Just ahead of tax season, Lee’s Summit CPA Julia Hampton is taking her tax and financial knowledge to Raymore with the purchase of a portion of another CPA firm. Hampton is opening the new office inside Community Bank of Raymore, 801 W. Foxwood Drive. At that office, Hampton has announced the hiring of veteran accountant Eric Allee, a Lee's Summit resident. Allee received his bachelor's in accounting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1994, and his master's in accounting-taxation in 2001. He passed the CPA exam in 2002 with the sixth-highest score in the state of Missouri. “Eric’s experience has given him a unique insight into the special issues our small business entrepreneur clients face every day,” Hampton said. “We’ve been looking to expand for a year. With the growth and great schools in Raymore, we are thrilled to now be a part of this community.” Julia E. Hampton's original location is in historic downtown Lee's Summit at 26 SE Third Street, Suite 200. Reach her at 816.554.0394.

CUDDLE UP PUP: A PREMIER PET RESORT Cuddle Up Pup is excited to announce their NEW (50 sqft) Luxury Suites with tempered glass doors and home decor. They have also opened two new daycare rooms for medium dogs and a senior room for the slower paced pups, with comfortable couches, television, and easy access to their own outside play yards. They welcome you to come take a complete tour of the entire facility. cuddleuppup.com

February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

LOCALLY OWNED

Madison Street Leather PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

Q&A WITH NATHAN BEGNAUD OF MADISON STREET LEATHER » TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU GOT YOUR START MAKING LEATHER BOW TIES. HOW DID THE IDEA COME ABOUT AND WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION? While watching "Shark Tank" about five years ago, I saw a wooden bow tie. I immediately thought, “Somebody needs to make a leather bow tie.” Having never made anything with my hands, I just sat on the idea. By August of 2015, my wife and I welcomed our third child, Maxwell. He came to us with Down syndrome and would require open heart surgery at just 6 months old. At that time, we knew our rhythms were going to change drastically. I wanted to find a way to, over time, work more from home and help with logistics of Max as well as our other two children. And so I finally acted on the idea and learned about how to make leather bow ties. CONTINUED >

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

LOCALLY OWNED

(CON TI N U ED)

» WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE CREATIVE PROCESS? I especially enjoy the early stages of processing I go through now when I look at a leather hide. My mind does somersaults over colors, markings, thin and thick spots as I look over potential hides to buy. » WHAT ARE THE CUSTOM COMPONENTS OF YOUR TIES? ARE THEY MADE LOCAL? I am proud to say I personally make every last bow tie. Eventually I’d love to put someone else to work with me, but for now, the workload is such that, from start to finish, I do each part of the making of these bow ties. You will commonly find me in the garage, in a workspace I’ve set up there, as well as in my home office, cutting, beveling, coloring, stitching ... » WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED AS A LOCAL MAKER/ENTREPRENEUR THAT HAS BENEFITED YOUR BUSINESS? ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WANTING TO CREATE THEIR OWN PRODUCT? I learned early on to focus on one thing. Leather creates opportunity for countless products, but I am sure had I done so many they would have been pretty marginal. By focusing on one concept and honing my craft, I have one primary product, but endless variations. I’d advise anyone wishing to create their own product to take that idea and run with it right away and stick with it. Many times I have felt like quitting, but I’m learning the importance of perseverance in all this. » WHERE CAN OUR READERS FIND YOUR BOWTIES? Etsy.com/Shop/MadisonStreetLeather. To find local stores, visit MadisonStreetLeather.com. » CAN OUR READERS FIND OTHER PRODUCTS MADE BY YOU AROUND TOWN? I also make belts, wallets, dog leashes, kids/pets bow ties—they are simple products, but it helps me to create a new customer base, even while creatively using leather in some other ways.

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU when you partner with us as your real estate team Call Today for a Free Consultation 816.246.3441

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If you’re buying a home, get owner’s title insurance and protect yourself from costly hidden problems. For more information, visit ctitle.com or email info@ctitle.com

ARTIST’S PALETTE

PA I N T I N G ARTICLE JUDY GOPPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

PETUNIAS IS A CREATIVE COMPANY THAT INSPIRES CAREFREE: THAT DESCRIBES MICHELLE SPIGARELLI, CREATOR OF PAINTING PETUNIAS, TO A “TEA!” TEA TOWELS ARE THE CANVAS FOR HER WHIMSICAL PAINTINGS, WHICH ARE POPULAR GIFTS FOR COUNTLESS OCCASIONS.

MICHELLE SPIGARELLI EMBRACES THE ARTSY FARTSY, CRAFTY, CRAZY SIDE OF LIFE, AND HER PAINTED TEA TOWELS EMULATE HER PERSONALITY WITH FLAIR AND ORIGINALITY. The idea came about after her life journey led her to a particular place in her imaginative spirit. With a goal of becoming a fashion illustrator, she attended Lynchburg College in Virgina and The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City for a brief time. “I discovered there were other plans out there for me, and got married and had three boys,” she says. “When they were little, I painted murals on walls in their rooms and other children’s rooms and repurposed anything I could get my hands on. This was all well before it became popular!” She has lived in Lee’s Summit for 15 years and spent much of those lugging painted furniture around to various shows. That is when she decided she needed a more manageable way to showcase her one-of-a-kind art. Several years ago, after remarrying and with her boys grown, she found herself homebound for a bit with a foot injury, searching for some way to pass the time. She needed a gift for a friend, which sparked her imagination. So, she came up with painting on tea towels.

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

CONTINUED >

February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

ARTIST’S PALETTE

(CON TI N U ED)

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

“That gift was very well-received, so I decided to see how far I could go with this newborn hobby of mine. Through the support of my family and friends, I created Painting Petunias,” she says. “To me, the name is carefree and encompasses a whimsical approach to the art I was trying to express. Art on a towel!” The concept became clear to her, and she saw it as an alternative to a greeting card. Each towel is wrapped in a cellophane bag with a cute bow, all ready to give as a gift. She feels this type of greeting will be cherished and not thrown away. All of her towels can be personalized, and people can custom order towels for such occasions as weddings, parties, baby showers, birthdays and girls’ get-togethers. Michelle’s first retail exposure for her towels was at Good Looks in Downtown Lee’s Summit and then The Dotted Chair. The owner of these stores had a positive influence on her at this point in her career. Although The Dotted Chair is closing his doors in March due to retirement, Lee’s Summit customers can order directly from her by connecting on Facebook or via her email. Her Painting Petunias tea towels are also available at Genevieve’s in Blue Springs, Missouri, By B! Boutique in Shawnee, Kansas, HMK (Hallmark) on the Country Club Plaza and Hallmark at Oak Park Mall in Overland Park, Kansas. She also sells to stores out of the area.

“IT GIVES ME GREAT JOY TO SEE THE SPREAD OF MY ART TO DIFFERENT HOMES," SHE SAYS. "A LITTLE PIECE OF ME IS WRAPPED UP WITH EACH TOWEL AS I HAND PAINT EACH ONE." Contact Michelle Spigarelli through her email, artsyfartsy42@yahoo.com or on Facebook.

February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

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Located just across from Lee’s Summit North High School in the Tudor Square Business Park February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

Persaud

Creative CELEBRATING LIFE STORIES ARTICLE JENNY WOLFF | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

PERSAUD

WITH

Persaud Creative acts as a guide, helping an

CHURCHES AND NONPROFITS TO BUILD

CREATIVE

WORKS

organization determine its audience and its one

THEIR BRANDS. Michael Persaud, a native of

voice, which consists of both messaging and tone.

Guyana, started Persaud Creative in 2011. Before that, he was instrumental in growing his church. “Each church’s appeal is unique. We help you discover your story and build on it," he says.

“It is important what you say, but also how you say it,” he says. The team introduces a 12-month brand package, which includes logo design, brand guide,

“I have a passion for local churches, and I

collateral materials and website. But Persaud

want to help them produce a brand. That brand,

Creative digs deeper, leaving the church or non-

along with marketing support, will help an orga-

profit with a strategy for reaching the people

nization reach more people and get the needed

they want to serve. This includes a 30-second

support to do the most good.”

video and photography which reflects the orga-

His company starts by asking nonprofit

nization’s culture and branded signage inside

teams the right questions, guiding the orga-

and outside the facility. From connect cards and

nization to discover who they are and who

screens to bulletins, social media and a strate-

they want to reach.

gic campaign calendar, Persaud Creative sets

“To create a culture, we must first define it. A brand has a personality,” Persaud says. “I have learned that a brand or culture is a system of shared assumptions, values and beliefs that determine how people behave in an organization. It gets people from various backgrounds all on the same page,” he says. “It’s crucial to look past a logo and a name into who we are and what we believe in. A cohesive and powerful brand gives a strong and consistent first impression.”

up any organization to succeed. Timothy Flick, Persaud Creative media designer, specializes in video, graphic design, websites and photography. “My passion is telling stories through media, and we are awesome at that!” Flick says. “What we celebrate are stories of life change," Persaud says. Persaud has his own life-changing story that led him to where he is today.

CONTINUED >

February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

PERSUAD CREATIVE

(CON TI N U ED)

“What we celebrate are stories of life change,” Persaud says.

“I grew up in a third-world country," he says. "A missionary spoke

Persaud Creative helps you discover your story. The team

to my mom before I was born, and converted her from Hindu to

will also help present your message by creating wonderful

Christian. That introduction to Jesus changed the trajectory for our

user experiences for visitors to your website, design clear

whole family. She found hope where she didn’t have any.”

and consistent graphics, and tell your amazing stories

Persaud’s mother made the difficult decision to leave her

with video. The Persaud Creative website boldly states

children and moved to Kansas City, where a local church

"You have a message the world needs to discover." Visit

provided a place to live while she became a student. Persaud

PersaudCreative.com to see samples of their work, blogs,

was 3 months old, and his siblings were 6 and 8 when their

case studies and even free stuff.

mother left. They stayed in Guyana with grandparents and, after five years, the children joined their mother.

“Any way we can help, we want to add value to your organization!” Persaud says.

“We came with only what we had in our suitcases. The

“A powerful story can truly clarify the message of an

church congregation supported us with clothes, food and

organization. We love that our team gets to use our gifts

gifts," he says. "We had no father, so some of the men would

to grow these incredible organizations.” - Operations

play football with us, take us to Royals games and the speed

Manager Timothy Flick

races. During this time, I discovered that I was creative.” 26

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

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19201 East Valley View Parkway, Suite A, Independence, MO 64055 February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

Paid Advertisement

Alimony tax deduction will cease to exist in 2019 Stange Law Firm, PC

In many divorce cases, spousal support (also known as alimony in some states) is a key issue in dispute. One party might feel as if they are unable to meet their reasonable needs without spousal support. They might claim the other spouse has the ability to help them. In 2017 the House Tax Bill proposed the removal of the alimony tax deduction. In contrast, the Tax Bill that was pending in the Senate still included the alimony tax deduction. However, the bill that ultimately made its way to the desk of President Trump was in line with the House Bill and eliminated the alimony tax deduction. This bill was signed into law by President Trump. Under the terms of bill, the alimony tax deduction will cease to exist for alimony (or spousal support or maintenance) awards entered after the end of 2018. The net effect is that there is a year period for states to figure out what, if any, changes 28

they will make to their alimony/maintenance laws. It could be that some states will opt to make some adjustments to the alimony/ maintenance laws and formulas in light of this new tax bill. It might be that many will not end up making any changes. Regardless, the impact on how divorce cases are litigated could be significant. Under this new tax law, payors of alimony/spousal maintenance will no longer get to deduct their payments on their taxes. On the flip-end, those who receive alimony/spousal maintenance will no longer have to include the amount they receive as income on their taxes. This will, in the eyes of same, result in a windfall for those receiving alimony/ spousal maintenance. Many also theorize that payor spouses will be less inclined to pay alimony/spousal maintenance by consent. Instead, they will opt to litigate their case given the financial hit that might worry them.

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

Some think as well that family and divorce courts might be less inclined to enter lucrative alimony/spousal maintenance awards when the payor is no longer able to deduct it on their taxes. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see how this impacts divorce cases in 2019 and beyond. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, juvenile matters, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Stange Law Firm, PC understands the emotions that can come from a divorce or family law matter. No matter the family law issue you face, we are here to help you rebuild your life. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

Lee’s Summit Office

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Kansas City Office

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855-805-0595 www.stangelawfirm.com “Here to Help You Rebuild Your Life”

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Kirk Stange is respsonsible for the content. Principal place of business 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Neither the Supreme Court of Missouri/Kansas nor The Missouri/Kansas Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist designations. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this advertisement are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT Subdivision

BDRM F/B H/B

LEE’S SUMMIT

Architecture

Plan

Price Original

Price Sale

Vista Del Verde

Traditional

Raised Ranch

$183,900

$185,900

Woods Chapel Acres

Traditional

Raised Ranch

$199,900

$203,000

Princeton Heights

Traditional

Front/Back Split

$219,900

Somerset At Charleston Park

Traditional

2 Stories

$230,000

$200,000

Lakewood

Contemporary

Raised 1.5 Story

$274,900

$192,750

Raintree Lake

Traditional

Side/Side Split

$265,000

$243,000

Oak Tree Farms

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$265,000

$272,635

Summit Wood

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$299,000

$286,000

Bridlewood

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$315,000

$295,000

Eagle Creek

Traditional

Ranch

$330,000

$314,200

Summit Crossings

Traditional

Ranch, Reverse 1.5 Story

$334,000

$334,500

Oaks Ridge Meadows

Traditional

2 Stories

$340,000

$325,000

Belmont Farms

Traditional

2 Stories

$345,500

$376,000

Lakewood

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$369,900

$358,000

Park Ridge Meadows

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$389,500

$375,000

Raintree Lake

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$389,950

$360,000

Trails of Park Ridge

Spanish

Reverse 1.5 Story

$411,060

Lakewood Oaks

Traditional

1.5 Stories, 2 Stories

$445,000

$390,000

Woodland Trails

Reverse 1.5 Story

$441,298

$443,559

Dalton's Ridge

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$479,900

$453,000

Mill Creek Of Summit Mill

Traditional

Reverse 1.5 Story

$482,435

$459,950

Winterset Valley

Traditional

Ranch, Reverse 1.5 Story

$589,900

$529,250

Woodland Shores

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$675,000

$597,500

Timber Meadows

Traditional

1.5 Stories

$699,900

$669,900

Lakewood Shores

Traditional

Ranch, Reverse 1.5 Story

$759,000

$725,000

Lake Winnebago

Traditional

Reverse 1.5 Story

$950,000

Market Analysis for 01/01/2018-01/31/2018. Source: IRES MLS system.

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HOLLYWOOD IN THE HEARTLAND: 'LOTAWANA' IS LABOR OF LOVE FOR LOCAL FILMMAKERS

Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

ARTICLE ALAN GOFORTH | PHOTOGRAPHY TREVOR HAWKINS CONTINUED >

February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

HOLLYWOOD IN THE HEARTLAND

Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

(CON TI N UED)

T R E V O R H AW K IN S , T HE D R I V IN G F O R C E B E HIND T HE NE W F IL M " L O TAWA N A ," L A UN C HE D HI S M O V IE M A K IN G C A R E E R W I T H L I T T L E M O R E T H A N A C A ME R A A ND A B E L IE F IN T HE P O W E R O F F IL M T O T E L L A C O MP E L L IN G S T O R Y.

"I got started in high school, filming friends who were skateboarding and wakeboarding," he says. "I never knew movies could do anything interesting until I went to a friend's house and he showed me 'Requiem for a Dream,' 'Donnie Darko' and 'A Clockwork Orange' in his basement. I got this feeling of awe. I was hooked and became obsessed with relating emotions through film. It was always my dream to make a full-length movie." That's exactly what he and his wife, Cori Jo, have done. Just as the name suggests, "Lotawana" was shot on location in eastern Jackson County. Trevor's own life experiences inspired the concept. "The movie is based on me in my mid-20s, fighting wanderlust and trying to escape the 9-to-5 in favor of a different lifestyle," he says. "It is an exploration of the idea that the characters create an idealistic dream world. Can they survive and rewrite their own rules of modern existence or will they discover that society operates as it does for a reason?" The couple oversaw every detail of the movie, from the initial concept in 2014 through writing, fundraising, casting, filming and post-production. "We went into this with no idea of the timespan involved," Cori Jo says. "One thing we learned is how much a film becomes part of your life and that you need to treat it as its own company." Funding is always a major hurdle for independent filmmakers, especially if they want to retain full creative control. "We pretty much didn't follow any of the rules," Trevor says. "We had a few early offers for funding, but they came with a stipulation of using a name actor or actress, which would have shrunk our shooting schedule to a week or two. We weren't ready to compromise creatively to make the movie we wanted to make." The couple eventually raised the needed funds through relationships they had established at their video production company, Mammoth Media. "I was fortunate and did not have to advertise for investors," Trevor says. "Everything was word of mouth. I was doing commercial work, and that helped lead to funding, although we also took out a loan on our house." Cori Jo produced the film, and Trevor wore multiple hats as writer, director, cinematographer and colorist. Although the actor, Todd Blubaugh, is from Los Angeles and the actress, Nicola Collie, is from New York, all of the production crew was local. After its premiere at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Kansas City, the couple is seeking a national distributor. "Finding distribution for an indie film is challenging," Cori Jo says. "It's even more difficult because of the fact that we decided to make a creative-driven film." CONTINUED >

February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

HOLLYWOOD IN THE HEARTLAND

(CON TI N UED)

They are entering "Lotawana" in film festivals to garner exposure. In the meantime, their next production already is in development. "They always say to have the next movie on deck," Trevor says. "The working title is `The Velvet Elk," which is a much dreamier movie loosely based upon a park ranger. Unfortunately, we won't be able to shoot it locally because of the setting, so we are looking at the Pacific Northwest." The hit Netflix series "Ozark" has brought national attention to the Lake of the Ozarks region. With a few breaks, "Lotawana" just may do the same for Lee's Summit.

For more information and to watch the trailer for "Lotawana," please visit LotawanaMovie.com .

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

CONTINUED >

February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

HOLLYWOOD IN THE HEARTLAND

Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

(CON TI N UED)

Residents enjoying a viewing of the Movie Lotowana.

Watercolor Reflections: Wonders of Nature MARCH 10, 2018 | 7pm Performing Arts Center at Lee’s Summit High School FEATURING: Symphony No. 6 – Beethoven, Moldau – Smetana, and Curtain in the Sky – Robert Langenfeld www.LSSymphony.org

TICKETS Adult $15 / Students $7*

*4th/5th/6th Graders attend FREE with one paid adult admission per student. Purchase advance tickets at both Lee’s Summit Hy-Vee locations, Price Chopper at Lakewood & Raintree Lake or online at lssymphony.org.

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February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

Backstage with Jack Gerding LEE'S SUMMIT STUDENT SPOTLIGHT ARTICLE JUDY GOPPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY TOM PUGH CONTINUED >

February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

(CON TI N U ED)

SOME CHILDREN ARE BROUGHT INTO THE WORLD

Beth Munce, a founding board member of Kantorei KC,

WITH NO CREATIVE BOUNDARIES, ENCOURAGED

has been Jack’s voice teacher since the summer before

TO BE INSPIRED AND SHINE. The oldest of three boys,

his freshman year.

Jack Gerding, a talented senior at Lee’s Summit High

“I gave Jack a few lessons at Kantorei Summer Choral

School, is the product of such a childhood. He has already

Institute. When he started lessons, he was your average

blown audiences away on the theatrical stage with such

teenager but possessed a very unique instrument: a voice

presence it has attracted scholarships and is opening a

that over time has grown and developed into a very reso-

sky’s-the-limit future for him.

nant, rich voice which I believe is capable of someday filling

Jack is the son of Ryan and Kelly Gerding. Ryan is a

an opera hall and making art at the very highest level,” Beth

public relations executive for INK inc. Public Relations and

says. “Jack is a massive talent. He has worked extremely

Kelly is executive producer for the Fox 4 Morning Show. His

hard to get to where he is today and has the talent to do

younger brother, Kyle, is a freshman at LSHS, and Nick is a

whatever he wants in the singing world.”

seventh-grader at Pleasant Lea Middle School.

He is honored to have received a scholarship from the Metheney Music Foundation for a summer program he attended at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, and been offered scholarships from William Jewell and

“I WAS INSPIRED IN MIDDLE SCHOOL WHEN I

Pepperdine University so far. He plans to study vocal perfor-

ATTENDED A PARADE OF CHOIRS CONCERT AND

across the country, including Juilliard and the Curtis Institute.

SAW SOUNDS OF SUMMIT, THE SELECT CHAM-

guy—I’ve been the bad guy in two of my three high school

BER CHOIR AT LSHS,” JACK SAYS. “THEY LOOKED

more complex performance. Everyone thinks they are the

LIKE THEY WERE HAVING SO MUCH FUN AND ENJOYING THE MUSIC THEY WERE SINGING.”

mance in college and is in the process of applying to schools “I like to think I’m a good kid who likes to play the bad musicals. I really enjoy playing the bad guy the most. It’s a good guy in their life story, so playing the good guy in a musical is not much of a stretch. But playing the bad guy means going deeper into the role, examining a thought process that’s different from what you normally do,” he says. “In 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame,' I played the role of Frollo,

Now a member of the LSHS Concert Choir and Sounds of

a church leader who despised gypsies and foreigners, and

Summit, Jack has been named to the KC Metro All-District

acted against them because he thought it was right. Playing

Choir in 2015, 2016 and 2017, and All-State Choir in 2016 and

someone who is bad for what he thinks are good reasons is

2017, where he took third place in the state reading compe-

really challenging and really enjoyable.”

tition in 2017, which he will be competing in again this year. He advanced to the national rounds for New York’s Classical Singer Magazine singing competition in 2016 and 2017.

He sings praise for the music faculty at LSHS and also for Theatre Director Micah Hensley. “He doesn’t tell you everything you need to do to suc-

He plays trumpet and is section leader in the LSHS

ceed and gives plenty of guidance," Jack says of Hensley.

Golden Tiger Marching Band, and is in the school's sym-

"He also trusts you enough to let you introduce your own

phonic band, symphony orchestra and jazz band. Lettering

ideas about what a character might do in a particular scene.

in academics throughout high school, he is a member of

He works with you based on what you think a character

National Honor Society and a Bright Flight Scholar.

should be and makes it so that the character you play is

A member of the theater group Tiger Act, he played

something you have developed.”

Donal in “The Pirate Queen” in 2015, Prince Eric in “The

Success to this up-and-coming actor is truly connecting

Little Mermaid" in 2016 and Frollo in “The Hunchback of

with his audience, and whatever stage his talent lands him

Notre Dame” in 2017. He was nominated for Best Actor in

on, that will serve him well. Be it a Broadway stage or in an

a Musical by the student critic organization, Cappies, for his

opera, as William Shakespeare told us in his play, As You

roles as Prince Eric and Donal.

Like It, “All the world’s a stage!”

Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

February 2018 | Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle

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February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

DIY

DIY POM EARRINGS ARTICLE HALEY PASZKIEWICZ | PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

Leeâ€™s Summit Lifestyle | February 2018

DIRECTIONS 1. Start by creating the pompom. There are various methods, using cardboard or forks, but the Clover Pom Pom Maker makes it much easier. The maker has two half circles sections that pull out. Choose any side and start to wrap your yarn around the half circle until it is at the maximum thickness. The thicker you wrap it, the fuller and fluffier the pompom will look. Cut the end of your yarn with scissors, tuck the half circle back in and repeat on the second side. 2. You should have two sides wrapped with separate pieces of yarn. With both sections closed, cut the wrapped yarn around the perimeter. Take a separate piece of yarn and tie a knot tightly around the center of the pompom maker. Tie four knots—two on each side of

WHAT YOU’LL NEED + Colorful yarn + Scissors + Necklace chain + Clover Pom Pom Maker— available on Amazon + Pliers + Jump rings + Earring hooks

the pom to make sure it is secure. 3. Take your pompom out of the maker. Next, trim up the ends with scissors to make it fluffy and even. 4. Cut two identical pieces of the necklace chain about 2 inches long with scissors. 5. With pliers, open a jump ring, and attach the earring hook and chain. Close the jump ring. Repeat for the second earring. 6. Attach another jump ring on the other end of the chain. Leave it open, and slide it around the piece of yarn that tied the pom together. Close the jump ring and repeat on the other earring. February 2018 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle

F E B R U A RY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE

KC BREW FEST

Gamber Community Center

Union Station

Whether you are a novice or experienced winemaker we offer an informative, interactive, social and fun way to learn how to create wine. Tickets $45 For more info call (816) 434-5053

dancing.

The KC Brew Fest brings together doz-

Daughters will receive a 5x7 photo,

ens of craft and international breweries,

rose and a small gift. For girls ages

as well as KC's best local breweries.

3-12 and fathers, stepfather and

Featuring more than 40 breweries, 100

grandfathers of all ages!

beers, music and food. $40 for general

SENIOR SYMPOSIUM SERIES

admission and $50 for VIP. Admission

Gamber Center

includes beer; food is sold separately.

10:30 a.m., Learn how to avoid home-

Enjoy

dinner,

music,

9 MIDDLE SCHOOL TEEN NIGHT Paradise Park

Celebrate friendship on Valentine’s Day with a $20 fun card, a personal

14 owner scams. This is a free event.

14 SWEET DATE NIGHT WINE MAKING CLASS Headquarters

pizza and a sweet treat from Para-

Join us for a sweet date of learning to

dise Café! All of that for only $15!

make wine, dining on our chocolate