Leawood Lifestyle December 2014

Leawood

december 2014

LeawoodLifestyle.com

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Family Bonds with Grand-tripping KC’s Best Holiday Destinations An Amazing Second Act Spotlight on the Leawood Chamber

It’s Coming ...

Be Ready to Host this

Holiday Season!

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Happy Holidays

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Old Fashioned Gingerbread Recipe INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup White Sugar 1/2 cup Butter 1 Egg 1 cup Molasses 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Soda

1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves 1/2 teaspoon Salt 1 cup Hot Water

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square pan.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter. Beat in the egg, and mix in the molasses.

3. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Blend into the creamed mixture. Stir in the hot water. Pour into the prepared pan.

4. Bake 1 hour in the preheated oven, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in pan before serving.

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We have been honored as the “Pick of the Parade Grand Award Winner” by the KC Home Builders Association in the 2013 Fall Parade of Homes. Recently 2500 W. 91st Street, in Old Leawood, was awarded 2014 KCH&G Best Model Home over $750,000. And our project at 2615 W 83rd St, in Old Leawood also was recognized as First runner up in the HBA Spring 2014 Parade.

Visit our website at: LarsonBC.com Call (913) 221-0880 for more info.

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Editor's Letter

Grandparenting: The Next Phase of Parenting?

S

ome of my dearest friends have become grandparents in the past year and it’s really thrown me off my game.

Adding to the confusion, I’ve started to hear other friends confess how much they are looking forward to becoming grandparents (when their 20-somethings aren’t yet married or dating their Mr./Mrs. Right)!

I guess this is the way it goes. We end one phase of our lives and immediately start to fanaticize about the next.

It’s got me thinking.

Is it wrong to admit that I cringe just a little bit inside when I realize that our oldest prince, who is 18 and in his first year of college, is not only living on the campus where I met his father, but is the same age I was when we started dating? YIKES. I’m still boasting an age that is safely ensconced in the mid-40s range, at least for six more months, and I’m too young to be at this phase of my life. Grandparenting? Really?

december 2014 editor-in-chief Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com sales director Michael Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch | MStauch@lifestylepubs.com Tia Koepke | TKoepke@lifestylepubs.com Tim Carr | TCarr@lifesytlepubs.com contributing writers Lisa Allen, Ruth Bigus, Mary Bush, Ann Butenas, Karen Crane, Charles Redfield, Denise Snodell, Tom Strongman, Heather Swan, Molly Williams contributing photographers 4 Ft Photos, Alexis Cook, Davis Harrison, McKenna Mathewson, Jim Mathis, John Schenken, Tom Strongman

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt

But when you stop and think about it, it does sound kind of wonderful, doesn’t it?

I’m envisioning daytrips to parks and zoos and ice cream in the middle of the day.

Maybe I’ll be that grandma who takes the kidlets on trips to all of the zoos in the Midwest. I think about spoiling them rotten with gifts because something caught my attention or was on sale. And ballet recitals without the frustration of having to drive them to all of those rehearsals and write all of those checks? Sounds blissful!

Sign me up.

chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore production director | Christina Sandberg director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Samantha Engel layout designer | Liesl Poet copy editor | Kendra Mathewson

Our goal this month was to introduce you to some pretty amazing seniors in and around our community. These folks are making the most of their second act.

Enjoy their stories and be inspired. I know we sure did, and we thank them for sharing their stories.

executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

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

I’ll see you around town!

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

Proverbs 3:5-6 Contact us at:

on the cover Take time to see the best holiday lights our community has to offer this month and have a very Merry Christmas!

| LeawoodLifestyle.com |

join us

7373 West 107th Street Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | LeawoodLifestyle.com Leawood Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Leawood’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Leawood Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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December 2014

Departments

22

14

Around Town

18

Star Students

20 Locals Only 22

Your Neighbor

24

Parent's Corner

26

Hometown Hero

28

Treasured Collections

46 Driver's Notebook

30 The Art of Grand-Tripping

The ultimate bond-building, memory-making travel experience.

50 Giving Back

34 Lights…Camera…Santa!

48 Field Trip

54 Now Open

Start a tradition with KC’s best holiday destinations.

36 Spotlight on the Leawood Chamber

56

66 Parting Thoughts

New brand, same mission.

Lifestyle Calendar

40 Area Entrepreneurs Find Inspiration in

Unusual Places

Making the most of life’s second act.

26

30 Lifestyle Publications

Kansas | Missouri | Colorado | California | Arizona | Texas | Georgia | Indiana | Oklahoma | Massachusetts

50

E X C LU S I V E STO R ES, E X Q U I S I T E H O L I D A Y S. Shopping & dining you won’t find anywhere else in Kansas City:

M AD E WE L L • CRATE & B A RREL LE C R EU S ET • D E AN & DELUCA • POTTERY BARN SU L L IV AN’ S STE AK HO US E • BRO O KS BROTHE RS A L L E N E D M O N DS • P LUS 80 OTHERS NW & SE Corners of 119th & Roe | 913.498.1111 towncenterplaza.com | #findyournewfavorite |

Menorah Medical Center’s PINK Party

Hundreds of guests, including breast cancer survivors, those on the breast cancer journey, family, friends, physicians, nurses and hospital staff attended Menorah Medical Center’s annual PINK Party in early October. Photography Brett Pruitt

Steve Wilkinson, Dr. Nasim Ahmadiyeh, Kathy Patton, Dr. Stephanie Graff & Dr. Denise Miller

Final Phase now oPen: enclave oF sunset hills

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

LETTIANN SOUTHERLAND, CSP

River Ridge Communities Specialist Lettiann@Lettiann.com | www.Lettiann.com | 816-898-5477

Leawood Rotary’s Blues & BBQ

Leawood Rotarians and their friends gathered at The Lodge at Ironwoods Park for their annual fundraising event, Blues & BBQ. Guest enjoyed dinner, a live and silent auction. Photography Brad Moore

Past president Margie Valentine

Club president Ken Selzer

HOLIDAY SAVINGS EVENT THROUGH DEC. 31ST!

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December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

11

Good Times

Kicks 4 Kids for Turner House Children’s Clinic Guests enjoyed meeting Sporting KC players Matt Besler and Graham Zusi and clinic tours. Turner House has provided quality health care to thousands of underserved children for more than 24 years. Photography Vivian Nazzaro

Angela Neunuebel, Madeline Hollenbeck & Izzy Romano

Graham Zusi, Amy, Paige & Michael Castillo, Matt Besler

Graham Zusi, Jill & Jim Neunuebel, Matt Besler

Rick & Stacey Homuth

Robert Ramm, Graham Zusi, Janet Burton & Matt Besler

Mike Heckman & Dr. Maria Ibarra

Mary Ring, Mary Montgomery & Lisa Edelman

Graham Zusi, Joe & Susan Rebein, Matt Besler

10% OFF In-Stock Products & Free Grout to Cover Tile Purchased

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Open to the public 7 days a week · Locally owned and operated KC’s largest retail showroom · Huge in-stock selection ready to take home Products ranging from traditional to the latest trends Non-Commissioned Designers in house to assist with design & selections

To view our products and subscribe for coupons and product updates, please visit our website:

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Hours

Mon-Fri 9 to 6, Sat 9 to 5, Sun 12 to 5 5400 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS. 66202 (I-35 & Antioch)

913-432-7900

f&

3rd Annual OverRun 5K

The event’s record crowd of 1,200 people joined the fight against ovarian cancer with the OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer Foundation to support better treatment options and ultimately a cure. Proceeds benefit research at The University of Kansas Cancer Center.

Enjoy life; let US clean. You have better things to do with your time!

Cleaning Fine Homes throughout Western KC and Johnson County • Weekly, Bi-weekly, Monthly, occasionally or one time!

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December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

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Around Town GOOGLE FIBER Pulls Plug On LEAWOOD It looks as though the plans to bring Google Fiber to Leawood have been terminated. The problem seems to be about whether the lines would be above or below ground.

Google had wanted to put lines above ground, where lines already exist. The City of Leawood preferred the lines to be buried, complying with existing ordinances in the city. Buried lines are not susceptible to damage from high winds and falling branches. A Google spokesman said that after several months of investigating, they decided that they won’t be able to bring Google Fiber to Leawood, as it would require a much more difficult construction effort and a longer schedule than was anticipated.

years. In the 1980s he was appointed to the City’s budget review committee under Mayors Jean Wise and Marcia Rienhart.

Since then, he has held leadership positions in local homes associations and is currently in his third term of service on the Ironhorse Golf Advisory Committee. In these roles and as a commercial real estate loan servicing executive and advisor, he has worked extensively with city officials, planning, parks and recreation officials, and diverse citizen and business groups.

Sipple is a current board member at the Children’s Center Campus and was on the board of directors for the Children’s Therapeutic Learning Center. He lends extensive time to the Church of the Nativity and the Siena Homes Association, and over the years with various not-for-profit, Boy Scout and baseball programs in the area.

SME Senior Earns Perfect ACT Akshay Dinakar, a Shawnee Mission East senior, has earned a perfect composite score on the ACT. Among ACT-tested U.S. high school graduates in the class of 2014, only 1,407 out of 1.85 million students earned a composite score of 36. Dinakar is involved in music and has been recognized and featured in the community for his violin performance. He is involved with DECA, serves as co-president of the SM East Art Club, and is the president of the SM East Knee Hockey Club. Dinakar was also recently named a semifinalist in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Leawood Rotary a Milestone Donor Anne Blessing, executive director of the Blue Valley Educational Foundation, recently presented the Leawood Rotary Club with a Milestone Donor recognition. The club helped fund the Blue Valley Empty Bowls project, an annual event in the district featuring well over 500 student artworks including ceramic bowls, fiber bowls, paintings, mixed-media pieces and more, all inspired by poetry based on the theme of homelessness. The event raises money for the True Light Family Resource Center in KCMO. Empty Bowls is an international grassroots effort to fight hunger. The basic premise is simple: Potters and other craftspeople, educators and students work with the community to create handcrafted bowls. In exchange for donations, guests are asked to keep a bowl as a reminder of all the empty bowls in the world. The money raised is donated to an organization working to end hunger and food insecurity. Events have now taken place across the United States and in at least a dozen other countries.

ICE THE CELL PHONES IN YOUR CIRCLE

SIPPLE SWORN IN AS NEW CITY COUNCILMAN A Leawood resident since 1978, our newest city councilman, Chuck Sipple, has actively served the community for more than 35 14

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

As the cold weather blankets our area, a growing number of seniors may find themselves stuck in life threatening situations. They may slip and fall, their car might break down, and they may get lost, confused, or stranded – literally left out in the cold.

That’s why Visiting Angels, one of the nation’s largest in-home senior care agencies, has launched the Ice A Cell Phone Safety Campaign to help seniors in case of emergency. To ICE a cell phone, you load emergency contacts in seniors’ phones with the word ICE in front of the emergency contacts’ names so when someone finds a senior in trouble they know who to call In Case of Emergency.

The goal is that this will become a universal emergency plan – a quick way for emergency responders to pick up a senior’s cell phone, and press the letter ‘I’ to find seniors’ emergency contacts quickly.

Simple steps: •Under ‘I’ in the contact list, load the contact names, beginning with the word ICE (ie:ICE_Heather).

•Make sure the emergency contact(s) agree to be an ICE partner.

•Include every phone number (home/cell/work) of the ICE partner.

• ICE partners should be aware of medical conditions, doctors’ names and medications.

Elegant

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Historical

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Newly Restored

LOCAL DESIGNER WINS AWARD Lydia’s was the place to be when it was time to celebrate the winners of the annual Heartland Design Awards of Excellence.

Arlene Ladegaard, certified interior designer, was the winner of the 2014 American Society of Interior Design for Single Space. The ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) awards are quite an honor to receive; winners are chosen by their industry peers and are judged by another chapter in different state. Ladegaard, founder and principal designer at Design Connection, Inc., is the only interior designer in the Missouri West/Kansas chapter of ASID to win awards for eight consecutive years.

Arlene Ladergaard

PRAIRIE VILLAGE BLUE MOOSE BAR & GRILL GETS A FACELIFT Blue Moose Bar & Grill, the popular KC Hopps Ltd. restaurant located in the Prairie Village Shops, recently underwent an interior makeover. It is the first major interior facelift during the restaurant’s 12 years of operation.

“Our business at the Prairie Village Blue Moose has been extremely strong for 12 years and as a result we wanted update our eatery and watering hole to serve our loyal customers for another 12 years” says CEO Chris Sutton.

Highlighting the facelift will be a new color scheme, new lighting and décor, a new seating layout and a garage door which will open to the front side patio.

The interior facelift follows last year’s project when the sunroom was enclosed for year-round seating and also as a room for special events and private group dining.

The restaurant features a variety of small plates, seasonal salads, gourmet pizzas and sandwiches, steaks, chops and seafood, as well as their famous drink specials.

Weddings | Conventions | Restaurant Couples Retreat | Spa & Grotto Experience Fitness Room | European Lap Pool Private Setting with Manicured Grounds Café | Tavern

Located in Excelsior Springs, Missouri

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ElmsHotelAndSpa.com December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

15

Around Town LOCAL DESIGNER WINS NATIONAL DESIGN FOR A DIFFERENCE Johnson County designer Stephanie Stroud is national winner of Design for a Difference, sponsored by International Design Guild. The contest allows interior designers to express their talents for the good of those in need within their communities. Stroud’s winning design benefits Operation Breakthrough, an early childhood education and social services facility serving low-income families in the urban core.

“I could not be happier,” says Stroud. “Not only is the space in much need of an overhaul, but the women and children using this space are so deserving.” Stroud and Madden-McFarland Furniture & Design Boutique receive $25,000 in goods and services to execute the project. The Leawood firm leveraged the prize to draw in additional resources and expand the project well beyond its original scope.

“We are thrilled to be joined by our industry colleagues to create a magnificent space at Operation Breakthrough for the children and their families to enjoy,” says Patrick Madden.

JCCC ANNOUNCES SPRING LINE UP Entertainer Michael Feinstein and Public Radio International’s “Whad’ Ya Know?” program with Michael Feldman are among eight new shows that have been scheduled for the first half of 2015 at Johnson County Community College.

Michael Feinstein: “The Sinatra Legacy” will take place at May 9 in the Carlsen Center’s Yardley Hall. Feldman will broadcast live to his international audience on June 27.

Tickets for the eight shows went go on sale in November.

Other new performances include: Sunday, Feb. 8 – Comedian Maria Bamford Saturday, Feb. 21 – Ladysmith Black Mambazo Saturday Feb. 29 – Memphis the Musical March 20 – Fredericks Brown March 27-28 – MOMIX – “Alchemia” April 4 – Multi-instrumentalist David Lindley All tickets will be available through the JCCC Box Office at 913.469.4445 or online at JCCC.edu/TheSeries.

16

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Expires 1/31/15

Star Students

Patrick Chapman, Nick D’Adamo, Davis Harrison, Kyle Martz, Jack Kutey, Will Hanson & Connor Parrish. Not pictured: Alec Newstrom.

Troop 10 Advances Eight Eagle Scouts Photography John Schenken

L

eawood’s Boy Scout Troop 10 recently celebrated the advancement of eight young men to the rank of Eagle Scout. A celebration took place at Blue Valley Northwest High School. The Troop is sponsored by the Leawood Lions Club.

Alec J. Newstrom, son of Doug and Ronda Newstrom, graduated from Blue Valley North and is currently a freshman at Kansas State University. For his Eagle Scout Project, Alec designed, planned, and coordinated the construction of two heavy duty picnic tables for Ozanam School for Youth, specifically for their Asperger Syndrome student housing. Alec is a Kansas AP Scholar with Distinction and played percussion in the band at BVN. He is majoring in Industrial Engineering at KSU. William David Hanson, son of David and DeAnn Hanson, is a freshman at Blue Valley North. For his Eagle Scout project, Will designed, planned, and coordinated construction of 107 sets of bed slats for “My Father’s House” Furnishing Ministry of the Church of the Resurrection. This project helped to ensure that over 100 children would now have a bed to sleep on. Will has earned 28 merit badges and has served as Den Chief, Troop Librarian, Patrol Quartermaster, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Patrol Leader. He is also very active with Harvesters Food Network and recently participated in a youth mission trip to an Apache Reservation in New Mexico.

Davis Patton Harrison, son of Tim and Lisa Harrison, is a sophomore at Blue Valley North. For his Eagle project, he planned and coordinated the construction of four park benches for use around the grounds of the Great Plains SPCA animal shelter. Volunteers who frequently walk the shelter dogs now have a place to rest outside. Davis earned 31 merit badges and served as a Chaplain’s Aid, Den Chief, Patrol Leader and Assistant Patrol Leader. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Stanley and active on several lacrosse teams. A favorite Scouting memory was a canoe trip to the Boundary Waters.

Patrick Chapman, son of Dan and Lauren Chapman of Leawood, is a senior at Blue Valley North. He is a percussionist in the band, has played three years on the soccer team and is currently a member of the wrestling squad. For his Eagle Scout project with troop 10, Patrick designed, planned, and coordinated the construction of 3 training bridges for an equine therapeutic riding center, Sugar Creek Equinapy, in Harrisonville. He has earned 39 merit badges and been an instructor, a Den Chief, and a librarian in Troop 10.

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

He is a Fire Builder in the tribe of Mic-o Say and a brotherhood member of Order of the Arrow. Patrick hopes to pursue a career in music after college.

Connor J. Parrish, son of Jeffrey and Margaret Parrish, is an eighth grader at Harmony Middle School where he participates in Science Olympiad, track and basketball. For his Eagle Scout project, Connor designed, planned and coordinated the construction and delivery of benches for the baseball field at Ozanam School.

Connor chose Ozanam as the benefactor for his eagle project because he liked the kind of work they do for youth with emotional, behavioral and learning disabilities. Connor is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow, a Foxman in the Tribe of MicO-Say, and has earned 72 merit badges.

Nicholas D’Adamo, son of Chris and Janet D’Adamo, is a senior at St. Thomas Aquinas, where he is an honor student, a 3-sport letterman (soccer, tennis, and swimming), and a member of the Bowling Team. He is a confirmed member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church. For his project, Nick designed, planned, constructed and installed an interior door at Turnstyles, a Catholic Charities thrift shop. As a Boy Scout, Nick earned 31 merit badges and was active in both patrol and troop leadership. He is a member of the Order of the Arrow, and a Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Jackson Kutey, son of Kelly Kutey and Tom Kutey is a senior at Blue Valley Northwest where he is a 3 year football Letterman and All District player. For his Eagle Scout Project, Jack designed, planned, coordinated and built two picnic benches for Ozanam. As a Scout, Jack earned 26 merit badges and is a member of the Order of the Arrow.

After graduation he plans to continue his football career in college.

Kyle R. Martz, son of Todd and Sherri Martz, is a senior at Blue Valley North High where he is active in the marching and concert bands. For his Eagle Scout project, Kyle designed, planned and led the construction of a permanent swing for the Community Living Opportunities’ (CLO) Conser House. CLO is an adult group home for residents with severe developmental disabilities. As a scout, Kyle earned 41 merit badges, is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and is a Tom-Tom Beater in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. In the fall he plans to attend college and study drafting.

To share your Scouting news, email Lisa@LifesytlePubs.com for details.

This new ATV is built for hard work or play – made for versatile performance and equipped with best-in-class power and rider-focused features. The Ride Says It All.

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© 2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ®, and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. or its affiliates. In the USA, the products are distributed by BRP US Inc. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring obligation. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. BRP highly recommends that all ATV drivers take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or, in the USA, call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. Read the Operator’s Guide and watch the Safety DVD before riding. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: always wear a helmet, eye protection, and other protective clothing. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Never carry passengers on any ATV not specifically designed by the manufacturer for such use. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speeds and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. All Can-Am ATV adult models are Category G ATVs (General Use Models) intended for recreational and/or utility use by an operator age 16 or older. ATVs with engine sizes of greater than 90cc are recommended for use only by those age 16 and older, except for those designated as T14. Can-Am Outlander MAX ATVs: These ATVs are recommended for drivers aged 16 and older, and passengers aged 12 and older only. BRP urges you to “TREAD LIGHTLY” on public and private lands.

Preserve your future riding opportunities by showing respect for the environment, local laws and the rights of others when you ride. Make sure that all laws, regulations, and BRP’s warnings/recommendations for ATV passengers are respected. Ride responsibly.

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Dealer Imprint Goes Here

ACT Increase: 32 to 35 composite / 36 superscore College Acceptance: Dartmouth College, University of Chicago, Cal Poly, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Rensselaer Institute of Technology, and University of Minnesota

© 2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ®, and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. or its affiliates. In the USA, the products are distributed by BRP US Inc. BRP reserves the right, at any time, to discontinue or change specifications, prices, designs, features, models or equipment without incurring obligation. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. BRP highly recommends that all ATV drivers take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or, in the USA, call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. Read the Operator’s Guide and watch the Safety DVD before riding. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: always wear a helmet, eye protection, and other protective clothing. Always remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Never ride on paved surfaces or public roads. Never carry passengers on any ATV not specifically designed by the manufacturer for such use. Never engage in stunt driving. Avoid excessive speeds and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. All Can-Am ATV adult models are Category G ATVs (General Use Models) intended for recreational and/or utility use by an operator age 16 or older. ATVs with engine sizes of greater than 90cc are recommended for use only by those age 16 and older, except for those designated as T14. Can-Am Outlander MAX ATVs: These ATVs are recommended for drivers aged 16 and older, and passengers aged 12 and older only. BRP urges you to “TREAD LIGHTLY” on public and private lands.

Preserve your future riding opportunities by showing respect for the environment, local laws and the rights of others when you ride. Make sure that all laws, regulations, and BRP’s warnings/recommendations for ATV passengers are respected. Ride responsibly.

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December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

19

Locals Only

Volunteer Driver Program for Older Adults Making a Difference in the Metro Article Ruth Baum Bigus | Photography Provided

I

nternist Mel Glazer retired from his medical practice several years ago after a lengthy career helping others. However, the doctor was not content to sit back, play an occasional game of golf and stop his helping ways. So Glazer took on a new role, one he says is easy to fulfill -- that of volunteer driver with JET Express.

A program of Jewish Family Services, JET Express provides rides for older adults who no longer drive, taking them to the places they need to go. Whether it’s to the doctor’s office, shopping, to synagogue or church, or to meet a group of friends for a social outing, JET Express is helping older adults stay independent longer, and the volunteers who help them feel like they make a difference in someone’s life.

“People are so grateful,” Glazer says. “It’s such a positive thing… and it’s one that fits with anyone’s schedule.”

Glazer provides rides for Charlie Carpenter, a blind man who lives alone with his beloved dog. Glazer takes Carpenter to the grocery store where the two men shop and gently bicker over what items to buy. Because of their rides together, the two men have become the best of friends.

JET Express needs more people like Glazer to become volunteer drivers for the program. Expanding the cadre of volunteer drivers is crucial. During one month this fall, 77 rides were can-

20

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

celled because there were not enough volunteers to take them.

Becoming a volunteer is convenient, flexible and rewarding—and anyone can participate regardless of their religious affiliation. Volunteer drivers choose when, where and who they drive. Using a simple computer program, volunteer drivers log in to choose how often they want to provide rides whether it’s once a month or every week. The friendships that are created by being a volunteer driver are beyond measure.

It’s easy to become a JET Express driver. Qualifications include: • You must be at least 21 years of age; • You must hold a valid driver’s license and have current auto insurance coverage; • You must use your own vehicle.

Volunteer drivers must take part in a brief, one-hour training session. If you’re interested in volunteering for JET Express, please call 913.730.1410.

Since the program began in 2008, JET Express has provided 11,940 rides to 401 riders. That adds up to more than 10,701 volunteer hours donated with 148,213 volunteer miles driven. There are currently 170 active older adult riders in the program.

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The Ironman Among Us Area Pediatrician Makes Endurance Fitness Challenges a Way of Life Article Charles Redfield | Photography Provided

R

obert Schloegel finished his 13th and final Hawaii Ironman Triathlon in October. He competed in his first in 1989. And this year the 50-year-old Johnson County pediatrician had a successful competition finishing ninth in the 50-54 age group.

“I finished in 9 hours, 58 minutes. I was hoping to crack the top five, but missed by about 10 minutes,” says Schloegel. “The Big Island in Hawaii will always be a special place for me and finishing in the top 10 was a satisfying way to end my Ironman journey.

The race has given me so much in return for all the hard work and sweat that I have given it.”

His best lifetime finish was in Hawaii in 2011. “I finished on the podium with a fourth place in my age group and a time of 9:24,” he says.

The Hawaii Ironman triathlon is one that individuals have to meet qualification marks. An Ironman triathlon isn’t a walk in the park. It involves a 2.4-mile ocean swim, 112-mile bike ride and running a full marathon (26.2 miles).

Schloegel got started in triathlons in 1986 while attending Creighton. “The school put on a triathlon on campus and I signed up not knowing how to swim laps,” he says.

“After a friend gave me a few swimming lessons, I finished the first of hundreds of races to follow.”

It isn’t easy making time for training while working full time as a pediatrician.

“The toughest part of triathlons has to be finding time to do the training,” he says.

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

“With family and work commitments, it can be a real challenge. There are a lot of early morning workouts. Nothing fun about early morning pool swims or cold winter runs.”

The Rockhurst High School graduate has been consistently training for the past 15 years.

“They say it can take five to six years of regular training to develop the technique and endurance to reach your individual peak,” says Schloegel. “To get to that level, I increase training during the summer months or the triathlon racing season to achieve three workouts in each of the three disciplines each week.

For me that peak occurred in my mid 40s.

Now that I have turned 50, it is more about staying injury free and keeping from slowing down too much.”

Schloegel’s oldest son graduated from Rockhurst in 2013. He has a daughter at St. Teresa’s and a younger son at Rockhurst.

All of his children have participated in sports in high school.

“I never considered myself much of an athlete in high school,” he says.

In addition to competing in triathlons, the pediatrician has run a number of marathons including Boston, New York, Chicago and Kansas City.

Schloegel has been quite successful as a triathlete. “I am sometimes referred to as the Godfather by some of my fellow triathletes since I have been doing them forever,” he says. “I definitely plan to back off in the amount of racing and training in the years to come. There have been some recent studies that have shown excessive amounts of exercise to be unhealthy for the body and the heart.”

He said that it is back to moderation at the age of 50.

“I plan to retire from long distance racing and only compete in the short sprint triathlons in the future,” he says. “Like most things in life, moderation is a more healthy approach.”

The pediatrician devotes part of his

time trying to get youngsters interested in staying healthy.

“There is nothing better than working with the kids and their families in keeping them healthy,” says Schloegel. “Since exercise is a big part of my life, I will try to encourage physical activity in their lives when I get the chance.”

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Parent's Corner

The Conferences are Over, the Report Card Arrives…

W

ith parent-teacher conferences behind us, many parents are looking over their child’s report card and wondering what went wrong.

It’s easy to get frustrated when your child has a report card you didn’t expect. But rather than being upset, it’s more constructive to emphasize their strengths and focus on ways to help them overcome academic weaknesses.

Here are five tips for parents to help your child improve their grades after a shaky report card.

1. Figure Out What Happened A poor report card could indicate any number of things. Your child may be genuinely struggling, he may have bombed a test or he may be forgetting to turn in assignments. Get to the heart of the matter and then work on improving grades from there.

2. Eliminate Obstacles Whatever your child’s obstacles to a good report card are, it’s time to start removing them. If your child is distracted during lessons, ask the teacher to move her away from the window or from class friends who make it hard to retain information. At home, limit TV time until after homework is done. If more specialized individual attention is needed, hire a private tutor. If your child is forgetting what work to complete, set up a system to help your child remember books and papers every day, and reach out to their teachers to see if a homework schedule is available.

whenever, they often either don’t do it or they will rush through it quickly at the last minute. Combat this by having your child sit to do homework in the same place at the same time every day. Make it part of the routine, and you’ll see improving grades in no time.

4. Hire a Private Tutor If your child’s poor report card reflects a lack of understanding of the subject matter, a private tutor is an excellent way to start improving grades. A private tutor will work with your child oneon-one to help him learn in the way that works best for him. A private tutor will answer his questions as well.

5. Keep an Open Line of Communication The more you can communicate with the teacher, the private tutor and your child, the better chances you’ll have of improving grades. Discuss the strategies that are working and not working as well as the areas in which your child struggles and excels.

If your child’s report card suggests that help from a private tutor is needed, contact College Nannies + Tutors today. They have a range of knowledgeable college tutors who can share their expertise with your child, improving their grades, but more importantly, their confidence in their own intelligence.

This helpful information provided by our advertising partners at College Nannies + Tutors. To get your child started with a private tutor today, call them

3. Create a Homework Routine When children are given to the option to do homework 24

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

today at 913.754.3633.

Hometown Hero

Traveling Miles for the Smiles What this retired Leawood dentist does in his spare time brings smiles to many Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography Alexis Cook

R

etirement can mean many things to many people. For some, it speaks to endless afternoons on the golf course. For others, it opens up countless opportunities for travel. It can also offer one the chance to embrace those hobbies and interests that were otherwise pushed to the back burner as the demands of family and career took precedence throughout the years.

For one local man, however, the glorious afternoon of life means taking his professional skills and transitioning them to a meaningful and enriching experience. Well, it was either that or, as he refers to his wife’s argument for it, “She said that once I retired I had to do something to get myself out of the house so I wouldn’t drive her crazy!”

Leawood resident Kenneth Stewart, DDS, 88, dedicated more than 50 years of his life to providing exceptional dental care to thousands of patients of all ages. Formerly of Enid, Oklahoma, Dr. Stewart earned his dental degree in 1954 from the University of Kansas City, now known as the University of Missouri at Kansas City.

Shortly after graduating from dental school, Dr. Stewart worked alongside seasoned practitioner, Dr. Bob Williams, in the Argentine district in Kansas City, Kan. 26

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

“He talked me into renting half of the building in which he worked and said he would refer two weeks’ worth of patients to me if I stayed on with him,” recalls Stewart, noting at the time he was considering moving back to Oklahoma to set up shop. “I decided that sounded like a good idea, as I could make some money and eat something besides hot dogs every night!”

Married during his first year of dental school, Stewart had a family to consider and ultimately decided to stick around the Kansas City area. As families began to move further south towards Johnson County, Stewart realized that if he wanted to keep the pace, it would probably be in his best interest to pull up roots and relocate to greener pastures.

“When I first moved to Johnson County in 1960, there were only about three dentists in the Overland Park area,” he notes.

He set up his general dentistry practice near 95th and Mission Road. After eight years at that location, he moved to an office shared by a few other dentists in the Bel-Air building at 95th and Nall, remaining at that location until his retirement in 2004.

During those years, he practiced all aspects of general dentistry.

“After I retired, I used to go to nursing homes in the area to help residents with their dental needs. A colleague of mine was kind enough to let me bring these patients to his office so I could provide them dental care at about half the price of what other dentists charged,” says Stewart. “It eventually got to the point where I would pick them up and drive them to appointments all over Johnson County.

As a result, he is now a contract provider for Mobile Care 2U, a company that provides dental services to nursing homes throughout the Midwest.

Now Stewart spends about eight days a month traveling to various nursing homes across the state of Kansas, frequently traveling as much as 100 miles a day. He brings all of his equipment, along with a dental assistant, and will work on as many as 20 patients in during an eight-hour shift, providing general cleaning, x-rays, dentures, fillings and extractions.

“It is so rewarding to work on these individuals because so many of them truly need the dental care,” says Stewart. “Some of them have nothing but roots, leaving them nothing by which to chew. So, I get in there and extract those and provide dentures for them. It is amazing to see their faces light up when they are finally able to chew again.”

Obviously, Stewart has seen appreciable changes over the years and has always kept pace with the quickly evolving changes in technology via continuing education.

“When I first began practicing, we used belt-driven hand pieces that operated at a mere 6,500 rpms,” he explains. “Five years later, other pieces were introduced that would work at 150,000 rpms, cutting ten times as fast. Then the air-driven ones allowed for 600,000 rpms. It has been amazing to see how the tools we use have changed so much over the years.”

One thing that remains consistent, however, is Stewart’s passion for what he does.

“As long as I feel good enough to do this, I will continue to do it,” he says. “It is so rewarding to help these nursing home residents improve their health and to see them smile.”

And what does he enjoy doing when he is done for the day? He sets out for his daily walk with Tilli Jane, his faithful yellow lab.

“She actually takes me on walks,” he laughs. “And that is what keeps me going.”

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December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

27

Treasured Collections

Holiday Collectibles Become a Family Tradition The Nutcracker Collection of Leawood’s Beth Carter Photography Davis Harrison

Tell us a bit about your collection.

I have a wide variety of nutcrackers, from “decorative” to collectable.

Which was your first piece?

A traditional German nutcracker from my husband. ​ Is one of them more prized than any others?

Most of my nutcrackers are gifts from my husband or children so that makes them special to me.

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Does your family support or help with your obsession/collecting?

Yes, they are always on the lookout for nutcrackers or nutcracker-themed Christmas decorations. Friends have also added to my collection.

Have you ever been on Antiques Roadshow?

No – but I enjoy watching the show.

What advice do you have for someone looking to start a collection of their own?

Collect for the enjoyment. Let your family and friends know about your collection and they can be on the lookout for you.

Do you have a treasured collection to share?

Email Lisa@LifestylePubs.com for details.

How do you add to your collection?

Mainly as gifts. I’m sorry to admit that I am running out of room!

The ultimate bond-building, memory-making travel experience.

Article and Photography Molly Williams

I

n my rootless days before our daughter was born, travel was a constant for me. My parents instilled in my brothers and me a love of seeing new places and leaving the familiar behind for short bursts, with the comfort of knowing my home was always waiting for me. As a young adult I was my mother’s frequent travel companion for wine adventures in Europe and beachy outings to Mexico. When I married, my husband and I were inveterate travelers. We thought nothing of taking off at a moment’s notice for a weekend in a coastal town or grabbing a last minute deal on an all-inclusive anywhere.

When Natalie arrived fifteen years ago, there was no thought to changing that existence. After all, she had come to live with us,

not the other way around, we reasoned. Adaptation to our wanderlust would be part of her upbringing.

In those first few years, as she grew up into our lives, tying us as securely to her routine as a vine winding up the post holds it down to the earth, we slowed our pace. But we soon discovered a great travel truth - a child is eminently portable, and therefore an excellent travel accessory.

Granted, they come with a lot of stuff, but in the days before excess baggage fees that was a minor concern.

Soon Natalie was as good at airport security and pulling her own travel weight as any jet-setter.

But the aforementioned mother was not to be left behind. Add to that the desire to spend as much time as possible with our aging

We decided travel could and should be a family affair; a multi-generational adventure that has something for everyone.

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

and which allows each to contribute their own preferences and life perspectives.

Traveling together would have the added benefit of providing closeness that only being away from home together can bring, not to mention the ability to appreciate one another away from the stressors and habits of our daily lives at home.

Grand-tripping was born.

parents and the grown daughter, who had by this time relocated to KC to be nearer family. We also wished to forge strong bonds between Natalie and her grandparents and older sister, ones not dependent upon us and only accompanied by turkey or Christmas carols.

We decided travel could and should be a family affair; a multi-generational adventure that has something for everyone

Our first adventure with the grandmothers was a week in Mexico. I made the travel arrangements (so as to suit our more rigid work schedules) and they paid their own way (which they were thrilled to do with the prospect of having the undivided attention of their children and grandchild

for a week.) For weeks prior to the trip our regular Sunday dinners were filled with conversation about day trips, restaurants to try, sunscreens and swimsuits, and best of all, memories of trips taken years ago. My daughter heard stories of a runaway trip to Mexico City before my mother’s wedding, and of a road trip vacation involving a bear, a snake and some roadside picnics when her father was a baby. The prospect of traveling all together brought out a side to our mothers that we had rarely seen and Natalie had never witnessed. Their quest for more adventure was not the slightest bit sated by the advancing years.

The trip itself we made as painless as possible; direct flights, meals for the plane which I prepared and carried in a collapsible lunch bag, cars to meet us at the airport, private tours at historic places, early dinner reservations, and comfortable accommodations involving kitchens so we could eat at least a few meals comfortably and more affordably at home. We tried to build in nap time (necessary for all of us, not just the baby!) and were completely amenable to spontaneous modifications of the schedule. We practiced much patience with one another, and found that the relaxation of being on vacation brought out the best behavior in us all. Our first grand-trip was a huge success.

We have since traveled together to Mexico seven times, to the eastern and western Mediterranean, spots in North Africa, all over Italy, along the St. Lawrence River from Montreal to Boston, to the Amalfi Coast, the volcano of Vesuvius and its ruined Pompeii, to New York and to the islands of Malta and Sicily. We have been in art galleries in Florence, the armory of the Knights Templar in Malta, and the souk in Tunisia (where the combined shopping influences of both grandmothers and daughter convinced me that splurging on a gorgeous Persian rug was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity - they were right.) We have attended Mass in cathedrals grand and continued >

December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

31

grand-tripping

(continued)

churches tiny all over the world, including the oldest extant church in North America where Mass is still said in French, and the lovely cathedral of Monaco, where Prince Albert was also a worshipper that day and Princess Grace’s tomb ever bears fresh flowers. One of our most memorable days was a private (well, as private as you can get with 5000 other people) audience in Vatican City with Pope Benedict on my mother-in-law’s 83rd birthday. Truly an experience none of us will ever forget, whether we have perhaps a dozen active years left, or our entire lifetime stretches out before us.

We have discovered that cruising is a particularly painless way to travel with multiple generations. Advantages include only unpacking once, familiar food (especially wonderful when dealing with sometimes tricky and always finicky older and younger tummies) and best of all, predictable plumbing. My mother and I once paid admission to a public W.C. in Italy which we discovered to be a row of holes in a concrete floor with heel grooves thoughtfully

placed beside.

Do not underestimate the soothing power of American bathroom engineering.

On a cruise ship my husband dances divinely with both his mother and his daughter, my mother-in-law can entrance the piano bar with her singing, and my daughter learns the exquisite table manners and conversational skill that come from their com-

the islands or of the long-deceased grandfather my daughter never knew who served near there in WWII. That’s what grand-tripping does for us; we each will have the time to do what makes us happy and relaxed while traveling, while indulging in the ultimate luxury of being with those we love most. My daughter gets to bank these precious days with her grandmothers as security against a future when they may be too frail to join us, or when she is eventually traveling with her own family. There are many legacies I hope we are able to leave her, but this is the best - that of a lifetime of loving going and doing, with those she loves, across all our generations.

There are many legacies I hope we are able to leave my daughter, but this is the best - that of a lifetime of loving going and doing, with those she loves, across all our generations.

32

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

bined 170-plus years of ladyhood. I have the privilege of watching her bloom under their adoring attention while they get to pass on cherished family stories and memories. They are relaxed knowing every detail of travel will be handled by someone who knows their breaking points and makes sure their needs are met.

We are currently planning a trip to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. While I don’t expect the “moms” to join us snorkeling, they will no doubt love to tell us stories of previous visits to

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What’s Your

KC Destination This Holiday Season?

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he holidays in Kansas City can’t be beat!

Plaza lights, tree lighting ceremonies, ice-skating, amazing shopping and endless holiday performances sprinkle the Kansas City landscape from the day after Thanksgiving well into January. A group of metro convention and visitors’ bureaus, also known as KC Destinations, says there’s more to do than you ever knew this holiday season in Kansas City. Make your list and check it twice to be sure you include all of the festive happenings across the region. Take a peek at this sampling….and, if you’re looking for more holiday ideas, be sure to visit KCDestinations.com.

Lights Aglow in KC. A local tradition for nearly 90 years, The Plaza Lights span 15

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

blocks on the famed Country Club Plaza, featuring thousands of glimmering, jewel-colored bulbs that accentuate every dome, tower and window of the Spanish-inspired shopping district (November 27 through January 18). If you want to see more lights, head several blocks north to Crown Center to view the massive Mayor’s Christmas Tree, which stands at 100 feet.

(November 28 through early January).

Learn more at VisitKC.com.

Step back in time as the Historic Independence Square is transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season. Every Saturday from November 15 through December 20 visitors are invited

to experience a horse-drawn sleigh ride as the sound of holiday music fills the air from carolers around the square. Warm roasted chestnuts, apple cider, hot cocoa, cookies and Santa Claus await each guest in the Visitors Experience Center located inside the Historic Jackson County Truman Courthouse. Call 816.325.7890 or click VisitIndependence.com.

Get your holiday shop on at the new Merriam IKEA. You’ll find tons of ideas for those on your holiday shopping list. With affordable pricing and amazing inspiration, don’t forget to include a gift for yourself! Ikea-usa.com/Merriam

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Enjoy a trip to the past when touring five one-of-a-kind homes decorated for the holiday season, December 5 through 7 at the 33rd Annual Candlelight Homes Tour in Weston. Candle luminaries light the way from home to home and Father Christmas joins carolers and musicians to create a festive atmosphere for all ages.

Visit WestonMo.com for details.

Celebrate an Old World Christmas at Strawberry Hill Museum in Kansas City, Kan., November 22 through January 4.

The 1887 Victorian Mansion will feature Christmas exhibits from many Eastern Europeans nationalities, ethnic foods and desserts and a visit from St. Nicholas.

Open weekends, noon – 5 p.m.

Sar Ko Aglow – Kick off your holiday festivities by meeting up with friends and neighbors for a celebration at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park at 6 p.m. on December 5 for Sar-Ko Aglow in Lenexa. Bundle up and enjoy a stroll through the park while taking in the spectacular lights, sipping hot

cocoa and listening to carolers. Santa will also be on hand to hear children’s holiday wishes in the Gazebo. Lenexa.com/parks/ Festivals_OldTown Drive up to Overland Park’s Farmstead Lane for an amazing 20-minute holiday light display synchronized to music. Display is free to watch and runs from 5-10 p.m. every evening November 27 through January 4 in the Farmstead’s main entrance parking lot.

Pleasant Ridge Christmas Tree Farm in Franklin County boasts a dazzling Christmas light show just 40 minutes south on I-35. Hop in the car and roll down Memory Lane’s Christmas Light Show. This road of twinkling lights is a great family memory for years to come! Starting Thanksgiving night, the display is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights through Christmas Eve 5:30-10 p.m. Admission is $5 per car or $1 per person for buses and vans with more than 6 passengers. Visit PleasantRidge.com for more details.

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Leawood Chamber: Same Mission

Shawn Kinkaid at a presentation

‘Building Connections, Building Community’ is still at the heart of all Chamber activities.

Article Heather Swan and Anne Rohling | Photography Jim Mathis and Provided

W

hen Shawn Kinkade left the corporate world to start his own business coaching and consulting firm seven years ago, he set out to work with entrepreneurs and small-business owners. The problem?

He didn’t know any.

Kinkade joined the Leawood Chamber and immediately got involved with their Ambassadors group. While the mission of the Chamber is to provide its members a meaningful voice in the community and to maximize opportunities to enjoy business success, Ambassadors work to establish and maintain relationships with potential and current members. Today, Kinkade is an incoming 2015 Board member after chairing the Ambassadors committee in recent years, and his company, Aspire Business Development, continues to grow.

He feels the Chamber has a unique culture, where members are very willing to help each other and there’s an “authentic friendliness.” He also enjoys the spirit of the group and the fun atmosphere at get-togethers. Many members say the Leawood Chamber is just the right size, 36

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

and they don’t feel lost in the crowd or that they can’t make an impact.

“Business Personalized” is the Chamber’s new motto and emphasizes the genuine relationships you can build by connecting or reconnecting with Chamber members and resources.

Networking Opportunities: There’s something for everyone at more than 100 member events each year, including informative, monthly Membership Luncheons, Morning Mingling and After Hours gatherings, Member Connection workshops, Leawood Young Professional events and the annual A Taste of Leawood. Generous sponsors make these events a reality year-round and you can review who attended with a handy Event Roster, available to all members who register for luncheons in advance.

Quality Referrals: When local residents (and out-of-towners) are looking for services, the Chamber’s dedicated staff and loyal members refer anyone inquiring about business and personal services to Leawood Chamber members first.

Online Directory: All members are listed in the Chamber’s online directory, which

receives more than 70,000 page views each month and includes a link to your own website, email contact information and a convenient mapping feature that directs customers to your location.

Weekly E-Newsletter: More than 1,900 member representatives and members of the area business community receive the Member Memo each week.

Timely News and Instant Publicity: Members increase visibility by posting special events, news announcements, job openings, product and service promotions, and company profiles on the Chamber website: LeawoodChamber.org. Advertising opportunities are also available.

Partnering for Progress: Chamber employees are active spokespeople for Members. They routinely collaborate with the mayor, city staff, and community members to welcome prospective businesses and support commercial endeavors, attract visitors from near and far, and assist in building strong business relationships throughout the community. They also honor businesses and community volunteers who go above and beyond to support

Chamber members at a networking event

Leawood’s prosperity at the Annual Meeting each December.

Printed Resources: The Chamber produces two annual print publications for members, residents, and visitors. The Community Resource Guide/Membership Directory is distributed to each member business in October and in new-resident packets year-round in cooperation with the City of Leawood. The Leawood Area Community Map is updated each spring and makes getting around the city simple and fun. Theye distribute 7,000 maps yearly through their office, Leawood City Hall and at many area businesses.

New Business Promotion: The Chamber and Mayor Dunn happily assist with Ground Breakings, Ribbon Cuttings and Grand Openings for new Chamber member businesses who want to roll out the red carpet in style, or for businesses who want to reintroduce themselves in the area.

Community Advocates: Chamber staff and leadership participate in civic and government organizations to stay informed of legislative affairs on behalf of our members. They network with other area Chambers of Commerce to help connect the membership to others in the region, and serve on economic development com-

mittees to help bring more businesses and consumers to the community.

Leawood Young Professionals: To help build future business leaders, the Chamber formed the Leawood Young Professionals group to provide periodic educational programs and networking events. If you’re between the ages of 21 and 39, wish to build your professional network, acquire business knowledge, and give back to the community – the Leawood YPs want you!

Kinkade, a Leawood resident, says it’s good to join the Chamber, but it’s also important to get involved. “You only get out what you put in.” Chamber mottos like “Business Personalized” and “Buildcontinued >

Did you know? Nearly 1,000 businesses are located in Leawood, employing 17,370 workers.

Shawn Kinkade

chamber (continued)

“Business happens because of people,” says Kinkade.

Chamber members at a recent luncheon event

ing Connections, Building Community” are brought to life through activities and networking opportunities that its members can be proud of, thus giving members a chance to build their own business and support others.

“Business happens because of people,” Kinkade said. “At the end of the day, a

B

transaction or sale is completed because of your relationship with other people. As a business owner, you have to have those relationships to grow. Being a part of a Chamber is a way to get that relationship engagement…Both from a business perspective and a personal perspective, it’s nice to belong to something in the community.”

ON J

For more information about the Leawood Chamber, call 913.498.1514 or visit LeawoodChamber.org.

Source: First published in 2013-14 Leawood Chamber Community Resource Guide & Membership Directory.

C DE M K

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

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Local Entrepreneurs Find

in Unusual Places Making the most of life’s second act.

Article Mary Bush | Photography Alexis Cook and McKenna Mathewson

F Kristin Gembala

our years ago, when Overland Park resident Kristin Gembala discovered she had the hereditary breast cancer gene BRCA1, she made the tough decision to undergo both a bilateral mastectomy with breast reconstruction and a hysterectomy.

“The figures associated with the gene are staggering,” says Gembala. “My sister and I had about a 90 percent chance of having breast cancer and a 50 percent chance of having ovarian cancer.”

Gembala’s family had a history with breast cancer. When she and sister Kara Gorski were children, their mother died from the disease at age 39. Years later, when Kara was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 35, she discovered she had the hereditary gene.

Even though Kristin was not diagnosed with cancer, she knew it was time for her to be genetically tested, too.

“Though it ran in the family, it still came as a shock to find I also had the gene,” says Gembala. “But it was obvious I needed to have the surgeries.”

However, the sisters surprisingly soon found their experiences with breast cancer afforded them a rare, entrepreneurial opportunity. After finding that regular bras just didn’t fit right after reconstructive surgery, the pair did some research and found a niche in the marketplace they could address.

“There are 94,000 reconstructive breast surgeries a year in this country,” says Gembala. “Though all women may not experience what we did with regular bras not fitting, we have found many who have.”

Three years ago, the sisters addressed that need and formed their company braGGs, LLC. The name says it all.

“The word ‘bra’, the double ‘Gs,’ which stand for our last names, and the ‘s,’ which stands for the sisterhood of women who have undergone mastectomies as a result of breast cancer,” says Gembala.

The sisters raised startup costs for braGGs via a crowdfunding website and divided their duties with Kara shipping the company’s products (which now also offers other undergarments) from her home near Alexandria, Va. Recently, braGGs has garnered quite a bit of attention. The company and Kara Gorski and Kristin Gembala were featured in a recent book authored by actress Marlo Thomas called “It Ain’t Over ... Till It’s Over!” In it, Thomas shares stories of bold women who won’t give up or be held back. They were also featured in late October on NBC’s Washington News and a few days later, received a surprising invitation from Vice President Joe Biden’s office.

“We were asked to attend a Breast Cancer Awareness reception at the home of the vice president,” says Gembala. “My first reaction was complete shock, but then once again, the gentle whisper of just how far reaching and impactful breast cancer is.”

Gembala’s comments circle back to why the sisters co-founded braGGs. Though the attention and accolades have been gratifying, the real reward comes from helping women move forward during a difficult time.

“Women who have had breast cancer have gone through so much and they shouldn’t have to also stress about what they put on their bodies,” says Gembala. “There are still so many needs to be met but to offer some help is very gratifying to my sister and me.”

Retirement Leads to New Business

Three years ago, when Lee’s Summit resident Marilyn Arnold retired as a managing partner for New York Life Insurance Company, her accountant asked what she planned to do next. Arnold admitted she didn’t know but knew she wanted to do something of value. Her accountant’s next question was a little more direct.

“She asked what I wanted to be when I was a little girl,” says Arnold.

“That was easier. I wanted to be a seamstress and dress designer.”

For good reason. When her mother patiently taught her 9-yearold daughter to sew in their Paris, Mo., farmhouse all those years ago, Arnold fell in love with the creative craft of designing and making clothes. She even ended up creating her entire school wardrobe and showing her designs at the Missouri State Fair.

Now at retirement age, Arnold still loved the idea of designing clothes but thought it a bit unrealistic. However, when a friend from Philadelphia asked her to make a custom pillow out of her old wedding dress and then others wanted their wedding gowns ‘preserved’ in the same creative way, the light bulb went off.

As a former executive, Arnold knew research about any new endeavor is key and though she found very little competition for the pillows, her most important encouragement came from one special person.

“I asked my 85-year-old mom what she thought and she immediately loved the idea,” says Arnold. “She even said she wanted one.”

These days, Arnold lives in Lee’s Summit and has an impressive home studio (under the name Marilyn Arnold Designs) with five sewing machines including one for embroidery and two for continued >

Marilyn Arnold

entreprenuers (continued)

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serging. She markets, designs and creates not only pillows but also blankets and christening gowns from wedding dresses and has even made, at a client’s request, an entire crib set, including bed skirt, coverlet, bolster pillow and bumper from a wedding gown. Her customers are all over the country and since the pillows alone take about four to eight hours to make, she still has a full work week.

“I’m retired but I still work a lot of hours,” says Arnold. “I love what I’m doing and in some ways, have come full circle back to my beginnings.”

Earlier this year, Arnold’s new vocation caused her to be featured in a New York Times article about retired people reinventing themselves. The article focused not only on Arnold’s unusual business but her entrepreneurial spirit. She also receives kudos from a motivational, humorous presentation she created called “Your Second Act,” which features stories about older women’s achievements and experiences which Arnold has presented to Rotary Clubs locally and in the Northeast. She just put the finishing touches on another presentation called “Reuse, Repurpose, Restore: Transforming Keepsakes into Heirlooms.”

It’s all been great,” says Arnold. “The wedding gown projects have provided such positive inspiration. They put my creativity on steroids.”

To learn more about these amazing women and their products, visit them online at BraggsOnline.com and MarilynArnoldDesigns.com.

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Driver's Notebook

Jaguar’s F-Type Coupe Strikes a Stunning Pose Article and Photography Tom Strongman

I

n 1961, the breathtakingly beautiful Jaguar XK-E knocked the automotive world on its ear and today it is often considered to be one of the 100 most beautiful cars in the world. While few modern cars can ever approach the XK-E’s sublime and sensuous beauty, I couldn’t help but think of it when I laid eyes on the 2015 F-Type coupe.

The coupe’s long nose and flowing roofline bear more than a passing resemblance to the profile of the XK-E, also known as the E-Type. The muscular haunches and sharp character lines that punctuate the fenders all speak of power and speed. The car drew comments wherever I drove it.

The coupe is the second F-Type model. The convertible was new last year. Jaguar has announced that production of the XK will cease this summer, leaving the smaller and less-expensive (relatively speaking) F-Type as the only Jaguar sports car.

Compared to the XK, the all-aluminum F-Type feels lighter and more agile. It is an exceptionally competent machine that blends road holding with a ride that is firm but not harsh. It feels taut and secure yet it is pliant enough to be comfortable for a long drive. It is composed and confident in corners.

46

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

The coupe comes in base, S and R models. The base car with a 340-horsepower, supercharged V-6 starts at $65,000. Jump up to the S, with 380 supercharged horsepower, for a starting price of $77,000. The high-performance R gets 550-horsepower from its supercharged V-8 and it starts at $99,000. All use an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

I drove an S model from Jaguar’s press fleet, and found that the V-6 makes more than enough power. The engine has direct fuel injection, an Eaton supercharger, dual overhead cams and variable camshaft timing. Jaguar says the V-6 can hit 60 miles per hour in 4.8 seconds, and it has a top track speed of 171 mph. While the V-6 does not have the explosive acceleration of the V-8, it pins you back in the seat with a satisfying surge. The acceleration is enhanced by the active exhaust that can be opened up with a button on the console. It roars under full throttle and crackles during deceleration, and that’s fun.

The test car’s light gray cabin was pleasant, almost calming.

The extended leather package put soft hides on the seats, dash and headliner. The climate package added dual-zone climate con-

blind spot monitor, dual-zone climate control, 14-way power seats, performance brakes, flat-bottom steering wheel, active exhaust and adjustable suspension. The sticker price was $92,125.

Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles Contact Tom Strongman at Tom@TomStrongman.com.

trol, heated seats and heated steering wheel. Wind and road noise are nicely muted.

Vents in the top of the instrument panel rise when the car is started and retract when it is turned off. For what reason, who knows, but it’s a subtle way of welcoming the driver. The center console has three round multifunction knobs that control temperature, operate the fan and turn on the heated seats. Audio and navigation are controlled by a touch screen. The steering wheel has buttons for audio, cruise and hands-free telephone.

The deep but somewhat narrow trunk has 11 cubic feet of space so packing light is the order of the day for weekend trips. An additional hidden storage space is under the trunk floor. There is no spare tire.

Price: The base price of S coupe was $77,000. Options included heated seats and steering wheel, satellite radio, panoramic glass roof, Morzine cloth headliner, Cirrus carpet, adaptive headlights,

At A Glance Point: The F-Type S coupe combines a handsome profile with excellent road holding, a welcoming cabin and a supercharged V-6 whose exhaust lets the world know a performance car lies within.

Counterpoint: I continue to be surprised that a car with a $77,000 base price has heated seats, dual-zone climate control and satellite radio as options.

2015 Jaguar F-Type S Coupe Engine: 3.0-liter, 380-horsepower V-6 Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive Wheelbase: 103.2 inches Curb weight: 3,514 pounds Base price: $77,000 As driven: $92,125 MPG rating: 19 in the city, 27 on the highway

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47

Field Trip

History at Hangar 9 A Trip to the National Aviation History Museum Article Lisa Allen | Photography Provided

I

am the mother of three kids: two teenage boys and a tween-aged girl. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that their collective mission in life is to disagree and prove each other wrong.

So imagine my surprise when each of them agreed that visiting a museum—a local museum, no less—sounded like fun.

I saw the immediate draw for the boys: knowing they’d see machines that fly trumped the fact that the word ‘history’ was in the name of the destination. So we set off from our home on the Kansas side of the state line and ventured north to Hangar 9 at the downtown airport in Kansas City, Missouri.

We were greeted by two volunteers when we entered, and promptly directed to our seats— actual airline seats from days gone by—to watch a video about the history of aviation.

After the video we were allowed to wander through a room of exhibits. The museum says it is the nation’s premiere commercial aviation museum, and that its

purpose is to preserve, maintain and operate historic aircraft while educating and inspiring the public. The exhibit room includes original passenger seats and vintage Country Club Plaza posters that celebrate TWA, but it was the uniforms and vintage information about airline stewardesses that most interested my daughter.

We looked at the “Pretty Girl” uniforms

weight restrictions were imposed. Women who stood 5’3” to 5’4” had to weigh between 105 and 120 pounds, for example, and none could be taller than 5’6” or weigh more than 130 pounds.

My boys were more interested in the docent led tour through the aircraft structures. We started with the Dehmel Trainer, named after Dr. Richard C. Dehmel, who received a patent in 1950 for a device that used electronic circuits to duplicate an aircrafts’ responses to control inputs.

We moved on to the TWA Moonlighter, which is on loan from its owner, and to the other aircraft in the hangar.

We didn’t walk away remembering the names or the designations of each aircraft but we were smitten with the stories and peppered with science lessons.

Our tour guide paid attention to each of us, asking, for example, if we knew what pressurization is as we toured the Martin 404.

It was fascinating to walk through a restored cabin and see the sleeper space,

The museum says it is the nation’s premiere commercial aviation museum, and that its purpose is to preserve, maintain and operate historic aircraft while educating and inspiring the public.

48

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

that were worn from 1938-1944. We read about the restrictive rules that were imposed on original flight attendants: they had to be a Registered Nurse, between the ages of 21 and 26, and unmarried for the duration of their service. Height and

GPS and computer programs, the brief time we spent revisiting how air travel started was a keen reminder not only of history, but of progress and

where only celebrities could afford to rest their heads. He pointed out the seat in which Jim Carrey sat for the filming of Ace Ventura When Nature Calls and talked of the movie The Aviator, which featured the Lockheed Super “G” Constellation, affectionately known as “Star of America.”

It was fun to walk into the cockpits and sit in the pilot and co-pilot’s chairs, and the kids learned that the navigator—not the pilot—was responsible for charting the stars and calculating where the plane was at any given moment. In a world filled with

determination. We left reminded that airline travel as we know it is only convenient and accessible because of the rich history and dedication of so many men and women through history.

Since we weren’t yet ready to return home—and starving after our two hour tour—we drove the 10 minutes to Armour

Road and made it just in time to nab the last hot dogs at Clay’s Curbside Grill. The Coney Dog was delish. My daughter loved the Slaw Dog and my oldest has already asked if we can go back again for the KC Dog. To walk off our lunch, we wandered up Armour Road and stopped into LeMonde Bakery. Even though it was fifteen minutes past their posted closing time, owner Jeff Dover welcomed us in and encouraged us to stay.

As we nibbled on our treats—gigantic cinnamon rolls for each of my kids, an apricot cheese croissant for me—he told us that they go through two tons of flour every week, and that the postcards that are scattered under the glass topper at each table have been mailed by to Dover by customers who have ventured to places across the globe.

We left reminded that there are interesting stories and sweet treats everywhere, even close to home, if we only stop to look.

For more information about the National Airline Museum, visit AirlineHistory.org.

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December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

49

Giving Back

Lynda Bennett

Fran Wolfe & Bunny Brown

Many Hands, Many Cookies Local residents work together to make a big difference Article Mary Bush | Photography 4 Ft Photoz

S

o you like to bake cookies? So do Overland Park residents Fran Wolfe and Bunny Brown.

As a matter of fact, the energetic duo is responsible for 21,595 cookies baked last year at Tallgrass Creek, an independent living, retirement community in Overland Park. But Brown and Wolfe didn’t bake them all and they certainly didn’t eat them all.

The home baked cookies (an average of 1,700 a month) are a collaborative effort by about 50 residents at Tallgrass Creek who bake the cookies monthly for Marcia Merrick, a local, (and tireless!) volunteer. Merrick rises daily at 4 a.m. and makes 400 lunches for Kansas City’s homeless that consist of a peanut butter sandwich, chips, fruit, two homemade cookies and a note of encouragement. The homemade cookies are a must for Merrick.

“When I was young, my grandmother made angel food cake for me and the smell while it was baking always conveyed care and love,” says Merrick. “I’d like the people who eat these lunches to feel some level of that same caring.”

Merrick delivers the lunches in the morning and again in the afternoon, stopping at homeless encampments around the metro.

In between, she drives people to health clinics and social services offices and provides bedding, toiletries and other essentials for those who have nothing.

Merrick made her first lunch for the homeless at age 16 and says she can’t imagine doing anything else.

“This is just what I’m supposed to be doing,” says Merrick. “I’ve seen some amazing changes in people and never tire of encouraging disadvantaged folks not to give up.”

Merrick’s humanitarian efforts have been spotlighted locally and in People magazine, The Huffington Post and Christian Science Monitor among other publications. She has also been honored as a KC Royals “All Star” for her selfless work. Wolfe and Brown say whatever attention Merrick receives is nothing compared to everything she does.

“Marcia is simply an amazing woman with a huge heart for disadvantaged people,” says Brown. “She makes all the lunches each continued >

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

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Giving Back

(continued)

morning and bakes the cookies herself if someone else doesn’t.

We stepped into give her a little help.”

Wolfe and Brown got involved in 2010 when they heard about Merrick’s lunches and were particularly moved by her insistence that each lunch contain homemade cookies. The pair thought some of their fellow residents would like to help and that year about 20 Tallgrass Creek bakers made 624 cookies. Then things really took off.

“We had more and more people who wanted to get involved,” says Wolfe. “Before we knew it, we were baking more than 1,000 cookies a month.”

Wolfe, the counter of the cookies, reports that in 2011, the community’s enthusiastic bakers provided 12,528 cookies to be followed by 16,071 cookies in 2012. This year, Brown and Wolfe expect to exceed their 2013 total of 21,595 cookies.

“Tallgrass Creek bakers make anywhere from two dozen to many dozen cookies a month,” says Wolfe. “In August, we baked 2,086 cookies. That was an all-time high.”

The astounding array of yummy delights always includes Brown’s snickerdoodles and Wolfe’s molasses cookies. Many residents use family recipes for chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal-raisin, sugar or other homemade cookies that have been handed down through the years. Residents package their cookies two to a bag and drop them off on a designated day, time and place; Wolfe and Brown then box the cookies for Merrick’s pickup which is always scheduled mid-month.

It’s very obvious when cookie day rolls around,” laughs Wolfe.

“The halls smell wonderful.”

Merrick says the people she delivers lunches to know when it’s time for the Tallgrass Creek cookies.

“When mid-month rolls around, everyone looks forward to the Tallgrass cookies,” notes Merrick. “They know who makes the cookies, and the love and work that goes into them, and are especially grateful.”

Wolfe and Brown say 2015 will be a bonanza year for cookies since Tallgrass Creek just opened the doors to a brand new, four-story, residential building. The new building has 87 large apartments that are almost totally reserved. That means one thing to Wolfe and Brown: more bakers. The dynamic duo has a clear message to the new residents who may be in the process of downsizing.

“Bring your cookie sheets with you,” says Brown. “You’re going to need them.”

52

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Now Open

10 Things You Always Wondered About Those Little BlueTaxis Y

ou can’t miss them when you are driving around town. The spunky royal blue cars stand out and seem to be out and about at all hours of the day. We wondered, and so we asked.

1. What prompted you to start the 10/10 service?

The “Devil” made us do it – The “Devil” is a well-known customer of many Johnson County establishments. There was always a concern that he be driven home safely.

Since there weren’t any cabs available in the market, a designated driver always took the responsibility, whether they wanted to or not. The idea for 10/10 Taxi™ started from that simple, but serious need.

2. What does 10/10 stand for?

Whenever we asked Johnson County customers if they would use a taxicab service, we were always asked the same two questions; How much will it cost? How long will I have to wait?

The answer to those questions formed our name. $10 for up to 5 miles. Service within 10 minutes.

3. When did the first blue taxi hit the streets of Johnson County?

Service was launched with five taxicabs

54

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

in September 2010. The initial service area was a circle with a two-mile radius centered at the intersection of 110th & Metcalf.

4. How do I get a ride?

Customers can order a 10/10 Taxi™ three ways: • To speak to a dispatcher, call 913.647.0010.

• Thru our app zTrip - download in the App Store or Google Play. Ztrip.com.

• To text for a pick-up, text 913.534.TAXI. Simply text your pick-up street address; i.e., 1234 Main St. Using a sophisticated GPS computerized dispatching system, the order is transferred to the nearest 10/10 Taxi™. Fares are $10 for up to 5 miles, plus $2 for each mile in excess of 5 miles.

5. What areas does 10/10 Taxi™ serve?

Our taxicabs are available in all parts of Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas. We recently added service to Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs.

6. Are the taxis available 24 hours a day?

We are available 24/7/365. There is never an extra charge for late night or weekend service.

7. It seems like we see these little blue cars all over town. How many taxis are in your fleet?

From our initial fleet of 5 taxicabs, we now offer more than 135 vehicles.

8. We’ve seen a pink 10/10 taxi as well.

What’s the story behind that colorful car?

Our company has a long history of community involvement. One of our most visible commitments is our partnership with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Each time a passenger takes a trip in one of our three pink cabs, we donate $1 of the fare to BCRF. 9. Is 10/10 a franchise or something unique to our town?

We are a division of Kansas City Transportation Group, the Midwest’s largest ground transportation provider. KCTG operates Yellow Cab, SuperShuttle, Carey Limousine, The KC Strip Trolley and many other transportation services in the metropolitan area. In 2013 we initiated 10/10 service in suburban Minneapolis and the suburbs of Austin, Texas. In March 2014 we launched in Orlando.

10. Can people buy 10/10 gift certificates for their family members who no longer drive?

Yes

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• Lobby Atrium with Chapel, Gift Shop & Sunflower Café

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• Patient Tower with Ortho/Neuro/Trauma and Progressive Care Units

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Visit Overland Park Regional Medical Center and Experience a New Era in Health Care at 10500 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, Kan. 66215

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Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 2 LEAWOOD CHAMBER MORNING MINGLING

a Community Blood Center blood drive.

Donors must be 17.

LEAWOOD

Join the Leawood Chamber and friends for the last networking event of 2014. Grab up your connections before 2015! 8 – 9:30 a.m. at Dental 133, (4300 W. 133rd St., Ste. 100) LeawoodChamber.org

DECEMBER 5 & 6 HOLIDAY LUMINARY WALK OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANI-

DECEMBER 3-5

CAL GARDENS

The Arboretum’s year tops off with the 15th annual Holiday Luminary Walk. This major fund-raiser features a mile of beautiful candlelit trails, holiday lights and live entertainment, Santa for the kids, horse-drawn wagon rides, a bonfire and warm refreshments.

5-9 p.m. ArtsAndRec-OP.org

KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA HOLIDAY HOMES TOUR MISSION & FAIRWAY

The 63rd annual Kappa Kappa Gamma Holiday Homes Tour features four homes decorated for the holidays by area floral designers. Homes are located in Mission Hills, Fairway and Kansas City. A gourmet shop will highlight “30 Years of Kappa Fudge” and other baked and gift items. Charities benefiting from the tour include KC Community Gardens, SAFEHOME and the Kappa Foundation. KappaHomesTour.com

DECEMBER 4-21

COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE Stanley

Make an appointment to help save a life.

Join neighbors and friends at the Presbyterian Church of Stanley (14895 Antioch) between noon and 6:30 p.m. for 56

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

DECEMBER 7 NATURE CENTER HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

OLIVER! THE MUSICAL

IRONWOODS PARK

CROWN CENTER

Please stop in for our annual holiday open house at the Prairie Oak Nature Center to help us celebrate the holiday season. Bring your children to visit the reptiles, amphibians, fish and see what birds are outside at the feeders. There will be staff on-hand to answer nature and program questions.

Crafts and refreshments available. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free.

Musical Theater Heritage is breaking out their own Charles Dickens story this Christmas at Crown Center with OLIVER! The Musical! Featuring a cast of 50 people, OLIVER! is loaded with fun, catchy songs, and is considered a timeless classic. MTH is joining forces with Toys for Tots again this year - so if you bring a new, unwrapped toy, you can receive one free ticket to see the show.

Details are online and performances are at the Off Center Theatre at Crown Center.

816.545.6000 MTHKC.com

DECEMBER 5 DECEMBER 4

hot chocolate, cookie decorating, Holiday Shoppe, horse drawn sleigh rides and more.

The mayor will flip the switch that will light up the city at 8:15 p.m. Musical fireworks will end the evening.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS & FESTIVE SIGHTS MISSION

The Holiday Lights and Festive Sights annual event will celebrate the spirit of the holiday season in Mission from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will pay a visit in a musical sleigh ride down Johnson Drive.

There will be a caroling, free s’mores and

DECEMBER 7 HOLIDAY TRADITIONS ON THE PRAIRIE IRONWOODS PARK

Participate in old time festivities on the plains at the turn of the century. Make crafts, decorate the tree, or create an old fashioned card. String cranberries and popcorn while singing along to an Old-time musician. Light snacks and drinks provided.

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U S E O F F E R C O D E L P 2 0 F F | O R D E R TO DAY 8 7 7 3 4 7 8 3 2 5 | K A N S A S C I T Y S T E A K S. C O M December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

57

Lifestyle Calendar

DECEMBER 9

cost is $25 payable to Leawood Welcomers received by December 3. Please mail checks to Margo Barrick, 5225 West 121st Street, Overland Park, KS 66209.

2014 ANNUAL MEETING & HALL OF FAME AWARDS OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER

Join more than 300 fellow Chamber members and business leaders as we celebrate a great year! The fun begins at 11:15 a.m. at the Overland Park Convention Center, (6000 College Blvd.) Keynote address by Silpada co-founders Teresa Walsh and Bonnie Kelly, along with their daughters and co-presidents, Ryane Delka and Kelsey Perry; moderated by FOX 4 News anchor John Holt.

LeawoodChamber.org

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. VisitPrairiefire.com for more information.

DECEMBER 31 FAMILY NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

DECEMBER 20

PARADISE PARK

MEET MR. AND MRS. CLAUS OVERLAND PARK

Come meet the duo in red that makes it all happen. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be making an appearance at Prairiefire Entertainment District at 135th and Lamar before they get too busy for the big event.

3-2-1…Happy 2015, everybody! You are invited to ring in the New Year early with the legendary Ball Drop at Paradise Park’s Foam Factory. Have a blast with friends and family. This rocking New Year’s Eve party is an early-evening, totally kid-friendly celebration. Noon – 6 p.m. Paradise-Park.com

DECEMBER 10 LEAWOOD WELCOMERS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON BLUE HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

You are invited to join the women of the Leawood Welcomers club at their annual Christmas luncheon. Social hour is from 11 a.m. - noon. Program for the event will be the fun loving “Senior Barn Players.” The

Register today for an upcoming open house

for the

January 14, 2015, 9 am Preschool–Grade 11

periods of

low

– STUDENT R E TEACH

12:1 75%

5

ratio

ts

l studen iddle schoo

m

elegible

Spark!Lab

INVENT IT GE CHALLEN ners e win

fourth grad

15

L PHYSICA N IO EDUCAT per week

student

ANCES PERFORMear per y

January 22, 2015, 6:30 pm Kindergarten Info Night February 3, 2015, 8 am Preschool Roundup February 10, 2015, 8 am Kindergarten Visit Day

www.barstowschool.org/visiting

n/ePals

Smithsonia

EDISON THOMAS rd winner a

teacher aw

COLLEGE PREP EDUCATION FOCUSING ON MIND, BODY AND CHARACTER

58

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Dick Hawk’s

GaSliGht Grill

& Back room

The Market Pulse Real Estate Pulse Exceptional Nightly Dining Featuring Kansas’ Finest Dry-aged Steaks and Seafood Book Your Holiday Event Now for 10 – 200 Guests Join Us for Dinner on Christmas Eve Lynn Zimmer & the Jazz Band Wednesday – Sunday 6:30pm

World-Class Dining & Entertainment in Casual Elegance Open Daily 4pm | Sunday Brunch 10am - 2pm 5020 West 137th Street | Leawood, KS 66224 | (913) 897-3540 | GaslightGrill.com

of Leawood Real Estate Recently SOLD Properties

Neighborhood

Original List Price Sold Price DOM*

Mission Farms

$2,590,000

$2,475,000

58

Hallbrook

$850,000

$835,000

92

Mission Reserve

$860,000

$820,000

14

Highlands Ranch

$825,000

$817,000

62

$790,000 77 of Johnson County Real Estate Leawood $695,000 $710,000 3

The Hills of Iron Horse $850,000 Whitehorse

$650,000

$635,000

22

Royse

$699,000

$600,000

123

Pavilions

$585,000

$550,000

105

Bridgewood

$529,000

$520,000

4

*Average Days on Market

40

60

20

80 100 120

0

Average Days on the Market Represents average days homes in Leawood spent on the market before contract.

80

120

160

Maximize Value, Minimize Expense Little things you can do to make a big impact.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a major renovation.

There are some inexpensive updates you can do to increase appeal without breaking the bank.

1. Replace cabinet handles and door knobs. Gold handles are out.

You can instantly improve the look of your home by replacing or painting all gold handles with current finishes - brushed nickel or oil rubbed bronze.

2. Paint or stain cabinets rather than replace them. Update and refresh outdated cabinets inexpensively with a can of paint or gel stain using current colors: creamy whites, gray tones or dark, rich wood stains. Use high quality oil-based paint and good brushes, it’s still less expensive than a redo.

3. Change stairway carpet. Steps wear out and get dirty, and design

trends have changed. Natural fibers like sisel and wool, or burber are popular. Choose a contrasting color or fun coordinating pattern.

Property Pulse 40

0

200

240

December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

61

Business Directory Animals & Animal Care Puppy’s Playpen (913) 648-DOGS puppysplaypen.com

Art & Photography Red Couch Photography (816) 519-0929 redcouchphotos@gmail.com

Child Camps, Care & Tutoring College Nannies & Tutors (Overland Park) (913) 754-3633 collegenanniesandtutors.com/ overlandpark

Dentists & Orthodontics H2O Orthodontics (913) 782-7223 h2orthodontics.com

Dry Cleaners

Natures Touch (816) 942-3240 greenearthcleaning.com Tide Dry Cleaners (913) 534-4569 tidedrycleaners.com

Education

Mathnasium (913) 642-6284 mathnasium.com overlandpark The Barstow School (816) 277-0413 barstowschool.org/visiting

Entertainment & Recreation Monarch Room (816) 935-7904 heritageeventspaces.com Reno’s Power Sports KC (816) 942-8900 renoscanam.com

Fashion & Accessories Shane Co. shaneco.com

Tivol (816) 531-5800 tivol.com Town Center Plaza (913) 498-1111 towncenterplaza.com

VanBrock (913) 341-7273 vanbrockjewels.com

Financial Services & Planning

Home Design & Furnishings

A&M Home Furnishings (913) 438-3868 amhomefinishings.com

RBC Wealth Management (913) 451-3503 rbcwm-usa.com

Design Connection Inc (913) 851-8776 designconnectioninc.com

Health & Wellness Emergent Care Plus 1-855-598-1481 emergentcareplus.com

Elegant Outlook, LLC d/b/a Budget Blinds Of Overland Park (913) 402-1600 budgetblinds.com/overlandpark

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

Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com

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

Ten Thousand Villages (913) 642-8368 overlandpark.tenthousandvillages.com

Home Builders & Remodelers

Home Services

Koenig Building (816) 457-9445 koenigbuilding.com

Larson Building Company (913) 221-0880 larsonbc.com

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

Legacy Flooring Gallery (913) 780-6060 legacyflooring1.com

Divorce is a life changing event.

Don’t go it alone!

How Divorce Settlement Professionals can help you: • Learn how to prepare for divorce as we work closely with you and your attorney.

• Understand the impact of decisions made during the divorce process.

• Save time and money.

Donna Tilden Consultant 62

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Call for a free consultation today!

913-522-4859 Member of the Leawood Chamber of Commerce | Located in Leawood, Kansas

F OFrtraitsr

% Po be 25enior ecem S nD i

Alexis Cook 816-519-0928 redcouchphotos@gmail.com

WEDDINGS ~ EVENTS ~ PORTRAITS ~ EDITORIAL

all accent furniture

On Sale

Are you ready for the Holidays?

Ask about our complimentary in-home design consultation

6960 W 105th St, Overland Park, KS 66212

913-438-3868

www.amhomefurnishings.com

f&

December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

63

Business Directory

LuLu & Mimi’s Cleaning (913) 649-6022 luluandmimis.com

Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com Summit Flooring and Turf summitflooringandturf.com (816) 886-2747 Tile & Stone Warehouse (913) 432-7900 tileandstonewarehouse.com

Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute (913) 317-7139 golifekc.org

Saint Luke's South Hospital (913) 317-7795 saintlukeshealthsystem.org/southbaby

Other

Cates Auction & Realty Company, Inc. (816) 781-1134 catesauction.com

Yardman of Overland Park (913) 642-8252

Divorce Settlement Professionals LLC (913) 522-4859

Medical Clinics & Facilities

Property & Real Estate

After Hours Pediatrics (913) 825-4700 after-hourspediatrics.com Midwest Anti-Aging (913) 244-4771 midwestanti-agingkc.com HCA Midwest Health (816) 751-3000 (913) 541-7400 hcamidwest.com

The Kim Yuille Team (913) 558-9533 kimskeytokc.com

EBT Restaurant (816) 942-8870 ebtrestaurant.com Gaslight Grill (913) 897-3540 gaslightgrill.com Red Door Grill (913) 222-7949 reddoorgrill.com

The Kansas City Steak Company (877) 347-8325 kansascitysteaks.com

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Kansas City (913) 345-8877 goldsteinteam.com

Senior Living & Services

Gail G. Dicus Keller Williams Realty (913) 709-1060 gaildicus.com

CF Lane Management LLC (Villa Medici) (913) 649-5050 Snowbird Maintenance (816) 723-7439 snowbirdmaintenance.com

REMAX State Line (913) 312-3620 scottiebroderickteam.com

HCA Midwest Health Overland Park Regional Medical Center (913) 829-2911 oprmc.com

Restaurants, Food & Beverage

Travel & Leisure

The Communities at River Ridge (816) 898-5477 lettinann.com

The Elms Resort & Spa 1800-THE-ELMS elmshotelandspa.com

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Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

Math Help

Math Enrichment

Test Prep

Homework Help

We make math make sense.

Ready for Rain?

… or, will your home be underwater?

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mathnasium.com/overlandpark 9339 W. 87th Street Overland Park, KS 66212

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Painting | Lawn Care | Cleaning Gutters | Home Maintenance Winterizing | Carpet Cleaning | Fences | Drywall | Deck Repair Honey Do Lists | Hand Rails | Updating | Checking on Your Home

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December 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle

Leawood Lifestyle, December issue

65

Parting Thoughts

OMG, Grandma’s On Twitter Words Denise Snodell

M

y mom is a seasoned AARP member. She called me one day, and said in a bemused tone, “When I type my password, it turns into small dots.” Adorable, yes, and also an indicator of a trend I’m noticing: Though it’s sometimes a struggle, more senior citizens are determined to get hip with technology.

The Pew Research Center recently reported 66 percent of adults 65 or older now go online, and 77 percent have a cell phone. But really, you don’t have to mine through studies and snooze over bar graphs to see what’s happening. Just look around. Pop into grocery stores. Watch people at airport terminals. Hang out with your elders. You’ll likely see Aunt Pearl whipping a phone out of her handbag, or Great Uncle Walt tapping away an email on a tablet.

I don’t think we’re at the point where most grandparents are Snapchat-ing or Yik Yak-ing between Instagram uploads. But if you pay attention, there has been a noticeable shift over the last five years. The Greatest Generation is generating cyber traffic.

Of course, there are many people like my octogenarian uncle.

A self-proclaimed Luddite, he follows pop culture on “newsprint 1.0”—also known as the paper “app” that gets downloaded on his driveway every morning. But he knows what a selfie is. He frequently asks me questions like, “What does YOLO mean?” My uncle is not at the point where he’d acquire a computer, but you never know. There’s a strong curiosity brewing.

My parents are another story. They’ve owned a computer for over a decade. They love this connection to their children, grandchildren and the world, and I know they could not live without it. They can email and Google with the best of us. Ordering their Fred Astaire benders from Netflix sometimes leads to missteps, but they get by. Both are signed up for Facebook, even though they have not graduated beyond the generic silhouette profile pics.

A year ago, I was floored when my mom begged me to show her Twitter. She loves the concept of chiming thoughts to the universe, and seeing what other people are pondering or joking about. Like Facebook, my mom is signed up on Twitter, but has not yet become an active user. She’s still in the egg phase. Nonetheless: Wow. My parents live far away, so every time we visit each other I’m always giving them some kind of tech tutorial. I have empathy and eternal patience, probably because there’s a generation on the other side I depend on for my own “Genius Bar” consultations—my sons.

The very morning our youngest left for college, he took it upon himself to write out a manual for me and my husband on how to navigate the 5,000 remotes for our flat screen TV. And I’m not kidding: As I was writing this very column, he texted me a video link.

A few minutes later, a follow-up message suggested I turn my phone horizontally for better quality. I was, indeed, holding it vertically.

Marketing-wise, I think the tech industry is lagging when it comes to helping each generation adapt to their products. Cell phone screens are not always compatible with seniors’ vision.

Middle-aged vision, for that matter. There are also finger flexibility issues, or simply a lack of background in how patterns and things work on screens—like knowing the reason for “password dots.” All of these stumbling blocks can be addressed.

With a little patience, every generation can, and should, connect.

Because YOLO.

D e D i c at e D to e xc e l l e n c e

Carpet

|

Hardwood

in addition to our flooring products, we offer full-service installation for residental, commercial, and outdoor spaces. We also offer SYnlawn® synthetic grass for beautiful putting greens, playgrounds, landscapes, and pet areas.

66

Leawood Lifestyle | December 2014

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S A M E P A R T Y

D R E S S

T W I C E?

N O W I L L

O N E N O T I C E.

SHOWN: AMETHYST AND DIAMOND FLORAL PENDANT IN 14K WHITE GOLD, FROM THE STUDIO COLLECTION, $1,285.

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