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july 2014

LeawoodLifestyle.com

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New at the Zoo? Canceling the Swimsuit Issue Weekend Destination: Omaha A Tour of Ironhorse Golf Course A Three-Generation Safari Adventure

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Editor's Letter

Have Some Fun this Summer! I

t often feels as if we spend the month of June wishing the mild weather of spring had lasted longer. And then we spend July counting down the days until the kids go back to school and wondering when the latest heat wave and droughts will end. It might be hot and sticky outside but that doesn’t mean you need to stay indoors. Get out and see this great city and this great region of ours. Call a friend, fill up your cars and take a field trip. Or pack an overnight bag and plan a sleepover a few hours away. Do you think I’m talking to just those folks with youngsters? No siree. We can all take a field trip or plan a sleepover! There are so many hidden gems tucked into our county as well as those next to ours. And if you want to get away for a day or so, there are dozens of worthy tourist attractions within a three- or four-hour drive. Titles on my bookshelf that might inspire you to get out there include several editions of Daytrips from Kansas City, WOW! Where Families Can Find Awe & Wonder In and Around Kansas City, A Kid’s Guidebook to Kansas City as well as The Kansas Guidebook for Explorers and Explorer's Guide 50 Hikes in the Ozarks: Walks, Hikes, and Backpacks in the Mountains, Wildernesses and Geological Wonders of Arkansas & Missouri. I was at an awards dinner a few months ago when Bob Kendrick, the president of the Negro League Baseball Museum, shared an interesting suggestion. He reminded the audience that we have a responsibility to support the museums and cultural centers in our midst. If we’ve visited them, terrific. But have we made an effort to share them with someone who has not? Have we introduced our favorites to a new generation or to our out-of-town guests? If you don’t want to visit a particular destination, summer is the perfect time to try a new hobby that will get you out and about such as photography or geo-caching. Or if you love to read, make it a goal to discover a dozen of the little free libraries that have popped up around our city in the past few years. If you love jazz, try a couple of new jazz venues this summer. My dog-loving son is looking forward to becoming certified as a volunteer dog walker at our local shelter this summer. It’ll be the closest thing he can get to dog ownership until he’s out on his own so it’s a win-win situation as far as I’m concerned. Get out there and enjoy this beautiful city of ours and I’ll see you around town.

july 2014 publisher Steven Schowengerdt | Steven@LifestylePubs.com editor Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com chief financial officer | DeLand Shore director of marketing | Brad Broockerd chief sales officer Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com regional director Michael Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch | MStauch@LifestylePubs.com Troy Coup | TCoup@LifestylePubs.com David Blackford | DBlackford@LifestylePubs.com advertising director | Mike Baugher production director | Christina Sandberg regional art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Samantha Engel executive assistant | Lori Cunningham contributing writers Lisa Allen, April Bishop, Katherine Bontrager, Ann Butenas, Megan Browne Helm, Denise Snodell, Kimberly Winter Stern, Tom Strongman, Sheri Wills Thompson, Jenny Wolff contributing photographers Alexis Cook, Parker Harrison, Janet O’Neal, Tom Strongman 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 LeawoodLifestyle.com

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com by Community ™

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on the cover So much is happening at the Kan-

sas City Zoo. If you haven't visited this year, there's something new for you. Details on page 32 Photography by Josh Hollingsworth, Kansas City Zoo.

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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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July 2014

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Giving Back

20 Hometown Heroes 22

Terrific Teacher

Open House

Star Student

42 Field Trip 46 History 101

32 A New Look at the New Zoo

48 Healthy Lifestyle

Superior displays delight the senses.

34 Omaha Serves Up a Full Plate of Summer Vacation Pleasure

This friendly city offers heaping portions of fun,

sophisticated and tasty attractions.

Sold Properties

54 Lifestyle Calendar 58

38 Lions, Tigers and Elephants! Oh, My!

50 Driver’s Notebook

Parting Thoughts

Leawood family experiences a multi-generational trip of a lifetime.

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Good Times

Tables That Bloom Luncheon

Delta Gamma hosted this annual fundraiser for charity at the beautiful Indian Hills Country Club where guests dined amidst spectacular tablescapes created by local designers and florists. Retired Brigadier General and DG Executive Director Colleen McGuire gave the keynote address.

Keynote speaker Ret. US Army General and Delta Gamma Executive Director Colleen McGuire Fabulous flowers by Craig Sole

Tables That Bloom Committee

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Every Monday Pie Five Pizza will donate 5% of all sales to benefit Childrenâ€™s Mercy.

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Good Times

American Jazz Museum Film Screening

The American Jazz Museum hosted a screening and discussion of â€œA Not So Average Joe,â€? a documentary celebrating the work of legendary jazz guitarist Joe Pass. Filmmaker Dailey Pike moderated a lively talk following.

Cadillac Lifetime Achievement Event Hendrick Buick GMC Cadillac hosted the first-ever black-tie event at the Overland Park Convention Center. Hundreds of guests enjoyed an elegant evening honoring 10 Kansas City business and community leaders for a lifetime commitment to excellence.

12 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

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Around Town Leawood Woman’s Club Continues Tradition of Giving For more than 50 years, the Leawood Woman’s Club has been raising funds to give to worthy causes throughout the metropolitan area. The Club’s purpose is to provide women with social opportunities that enrich their lives through educational, cultural, charitable and philanthropic endeavors. Much of the club’s focus during its history has been its philanthropic endeavors. Each year club members vote to select annual recipients for the philanthropic gifts. Leawood Police and Fire Departments have been popular choices for more than three decades as the club is honored to support the men and women that protect and serve our community. This year the club also gave Leawood Parks and Recreation department a gift to help fund a new Inclusive Playground for City Park. Additionally, two scholarships are awarded through the Johnson County Arts Council’s Shooting Stars Program. Sixty-eight local agencies have received donations from the Woman’s Club totaling more than $300,000.

Girl Scout Troop #990 includes: Cali Coffman, Lily Kincade Giovagnoli, Nicole Holub, Sindhuia Manda, Neeka Morelli, Ellen Nangia, Sophia Nangia, Agigail Meyer, Katie Pfeffer, and Sarah Schellhase. The girls attend Blue Valley Middle, Prairie Star Middle and St. Michael’s Archangel Catholic School and are led by den leader Jennifer Schellhase.

Local Family Gives Life-changing Scholarships

Chris Claxton, director of Leawood Parks & Recreation, Dave Williams, Leawood Fire Chief, John Meir, Leawood Chief of Police, Jean Johnston, LWC Philanthropic Chair.

KC Parks Opens New Surf Simulator Try out a new surf simulator this summer! The BayRider opened to the public in late May at The Bay Water Park, 7101 Longview Road in south Kansas City and is the only surf simulator in the area located at a public facility. The BayRider generates a thin sheet of water that flows over a stationary wave form. The resulting “wave-like” shape permits rider to slide down, carve a turn, and ride the wave surface emulating the maneuvers of surfing or other board sports, only right here in the middle of the Midwest. It has a 48 inch height requirement and requires all participants to sign a waiver before riding.

Area Girl Scouts Team Up to Help the Kitties Girl Scouts in Troop #990 recently worked together to complete an important project for Wayside Waifs as a part of their Silver Award. The girls decided that since Wayside Waifs has a lot of cats, they need an equally large number of cat scratchers. They saved the day by making a total of 960 cat scratchers. Not only were the girls helping their community, they earned their Silver Award, an award that takes many hours to complete and plan. 14 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

Twelve Blue Valley School District students received the opportunity of a lifetime thanks to the Cocherl family of Leawood. The family has set up a scholarship fund to help Blue Valley students continue their education after leaving high school. The scholarships are geared toward students who are seeking post-secondary educational opportunities at a college, university, trade school, vocational training facility or working environment. The scholarships will go toward tuition, books and lab fees. This year’s scholarships alone total $64,000. Scholarships are for one year and can be renewed for up to four years pending review of each student’s academic status. This is the seventh year of awarding the Cocherl Family Foundation Scholarship Awards. The family gives these scholarships every year. The following students were surprised in May with their scholarships during the Class Day assemblies at each of Blue Valley’s high schools: Kylee Bliss, Blue Valley High Samantha Harkins, Blue Valley High Brandon Boardman, Blue Valley High Joseph Gianni, Blue Valley High Roman Brown, Blue valley Southwest Derrick Jewett, Blue Valley Southwest Marissa Cappo, Blue Valley West Mackenzie Monroe, Blue Valley West Elle McAlister, Blue Valley Northwest Jaclyn Kimes, Blue Valley Northwest Joshua Ford, Blue Valley North Allison Malcy, Blue Valley North

New Overland Park Massage Heights Opens Ron and Crystal Richey have opened Massage Heights’ sixth location in the Kansas City metro area. The owners believe it is essential to give your body and mind a break from the stress of everyday life. Routine therapeutic massage can do just that by improving your health, your mood and your life. The College Metcalf Plaza location is staffed with licensed therapists seven days a week, early and late, so you can enjoy affordable, professional massage services that are convenient for your schedule. Trained therapists offer Swedish and Deep Tissue Therapy, Prenatal, Couples, Hot Stone Therapy, Sports Massage, and much more. For many, getting a massage isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity they seek on a regular basis. It is also a great way to relax. Reserve your customized massage today at a place you won’t want to leave. 11008 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park. 913.663.5444

Raising the bar on gourmet fast casual, ingredient restaurants use only the freshest products for our guests to create their own custom salads, pizzas or signature breakfast items.

Enjoy the Summer Sun on Our Patio. Happy Hour Specials Monday through Friday.

Quilts for a Cause Benefits Hospice Patients Quilted Memories, located in Downtown Overland Park has teamed up with Catholic Community Hospice to create Quilts for a Cause to benefit the non-profit’s new patient welcome packages. Each Friday, Quilted Memories, a quilt shop, invites quilters to donate time and creativity to produce a quilt that will be donated to hospice patients. The program, launched in late February, has already produced several quilts for the program. “I had been looking for a community project that would embrace our love of quilting and extend that passion to an organization that instills hope and warmth in our area. Our involvement with Catholic Community Hospice is the perfect fit,” says Lyn Heilman, owner of Quilted Memories. Quilted Memories is a long arm quilt shop located at 7913 Santa Fe Drive. It is a full-service quilt shop specializing in machine quilting, memory quilts and quilting supplies.

Race Driver Builds and Visits with Pediatric Patients Colin Braun, prototype driver from CORE autosport, a TUDOR United SportsCar Championship team, recently visited the Pediatric Unit at The University of Kansas Hospital to build and race Pinewood Derby Cars with young patients. Braun was in town to race in the June race on the infield road course at Kansas Speedway. He visited in association with the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. This Foundation partners with racing teams throughout the race season to visit area hospitals to provide diversionary therapy opportunities for patients, siblings and their family members both within pediatric oncology units and general pediatric units.

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July 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle 15

Around Town Braun and Foundation volunteers worked with young patients and their families to build the Pinewood Derby cars, and then raced them down an inclined track.

Worlds of Fun’s Latest New Ride Worlds of Fun has a new ride that takes guests to breathtaking new heights. The SteelHawk soars 301 feet in the air and spreads its steel wings at a 45-degree angle at a speed of 8 rotations a minute, swinging riders for a 60-second flight. SteelHawk is located in the Americana section of the park across from the Patriot and is themed for the majestic birds-of-prey that hunt the prairies of the Midwest. Approximately 100ft taller than Rip Cord, Mamba, and Detonator riders will experience a sense of exhilaration which will mimic the feeling of free flight. SteelHawk will feature 32 two-person swings that provide gravity-defying thrills as riders’ feet dangle at heights never experienced before at Worlds of Fun. On a clear day, you can see stunning views across Kansas City. Families can experience the thrill of SteelHawk together, and with its unique LED light display mounted on the arms; SteelHawk is an outstanding nighttime ride.

Gardens Gone Wild! This summer at Powell Gardens visitors can journey through wetlands, woodlands, tropics and more to discover 26 bronze animal sculptures by nationally acclaimed artist Dan Ostermiller. Set in nine adventure zones representing animal habitats both familiar and exotic, the sculptures make art accessible and fun for all ages. When embarking on this hands-on art adventure, visitors will meet a 12-foot elephant playing and spraying into the Fountain Garden; a pair of wrestling bears near a hollow log kids can explore and even encounter farm animals such as Priscilla, a 5-foot-tall hen making her home in the Heartland Harvest Garden’s Fun Foods Farm. Keep up with all of the activities happening at Powell Gardens at PowellGardens.org/calendar.

Expanded Summer Hours at National WWI Museum Through Labor Day, the Museum now features expanded hours and is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and until 7 p.m. on Saturdays. In conjunction with summer hours, the Museum offers a wide array of programming for children and families on summer vacation. The National World War I Museum holds the most diverse collection of World War I objects and documents in the world and is the second-oldest public museum dedicated to preserving the objects, history and personal experiences of the war.

FLORETTE

What’s New With Google? Everyone knows what it means to Google something. And who has not used Google Maps to find someplace?

16 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

Now Google has added a new feature called Google Business View (GBV). With GBV businesses can add a virtual tour, allowing viewers to “see inside” and take Street View into their business. It’s cool, it’s colorful, it’s progressive! Will a Google Business View Virtual Tour improve SEO rankings? If people are already finding a business in Google, is that business giving them anything worth seeing on your web site? The longer people stay on the site and explore, the greater value the search engines place on the quality of content, and that boosts a page rank. Why do restaurant owners post pictures of their food? Why do prospective home buyers want to see inside a home? Placing rich imagery in front of customers can persuade them to stay longer. To explore your site, your business. A Google Business View virtual tour does this. To learn more, contact Linda Chubbuck, GBV Trusted Photographer at 816.246.6871

GIVING USED INSTRUMENTS A SECOND LIFE Music 4 Jeremy’s Cherubs Foundation (M4JC) was formed in 2009 after a brain tumor ended the life of Jeremy Frye. Jeremy had just graduated from Baker University and was prepared to begin a music teaching career. His family started M4JC to carry on the work he was passionate about, seeing that children and youth would enjoy music in their lives. Donated instruments are rehabbed and provided to schools throughout the Kansas City area and around the world. Guitars are sent to injured soldiers for music therapy programs. To date, more than 800 instruments and more than 100 guitars have found new life. In addition, 24 scholarships have been awarded to music students and future music educators. M4JC used its experience in urban schools to help Band of Angels start its focus on suburban schools. Donors can send information to M4JC about potential instruments through its website at Music4JeremysCherubs.org.

The Birthing Experience advanced care in a comfortable, intimate setting At Menorah Medical Center’s Family Birthing Center mothers can experience labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum care in one beautifully decorated, spacious birthing suite. These specially designed rooms create the ultimate soothing, private atmosphere for life’s biggest miracle. And along with the amenities of a home-like environment, Menorah’s team of experts delivers signature high-quality, exceptional care. It’s what you’ve come to expect from Menorah Medical Center.

Call (913) 498-6652 to schedule your personal tour. Personalized care throughout every stage of pregnancy and childbirth Prenatal counseling and education classes • Level II NICU

5721 W. 119th Street Overland Park, KS 66209 MenorahMedicalCenter.com July 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle 17

Giving Back

Giving Johnson County Kids a Step Up Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County provides free therapy to little ones with developmental delays Article Katherine Bontrager | Photography Provided

chools provide services for school-aged children who may be struggling with developmental delays. But what about those precious years before a formal education begins—from birth to age 3? During these integral and highly impressionable years, parents can feel helpless as to how to best help their children excel. Thankfully, this is where Infant Toddler Services of Johnson County (ITSJC) steps in, bringing families hope and children the help they desperately need. Founded in 1992 (and mandated through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), the non-profit seeks to provide comprehensive services for children with developmental delays and/or disabilities, explains Monica Helfer, assistant director at ITSJC. “Through a working partnership with children’s families, ITSJC seeks to help those with speech delays, behavioral disorders, sensory integration issues, Down’s syndrome, autism and cerebral palsy.” Literally thousands of children have been helped by the services provided by ITSJC since the organization began, with more than 1,500 children in our community currently being helped. [Full disclosure: This author’s twins are among those numbers.] One such child is Josephine Davis, who was first enrolled in ITSJC when she was 18 months old. “At her check-up we discussed what words she could say,” recalls Lucy McShane Davis, Josephine’s mother. “It turned out that she didn’t have as many as she should. Our pediatrician recommended I call Infant and Toddler Services, which determined that Josephine needed weekly sessions with a speech therapist. Lauri Summers 18 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

came to our home and worked with Josephine but also taught me what I could do on a daily basis to encourage her verbal skills.” Within months, Josephine’s vocabulary flourished. Unfortunately, her vocabulary took a turn for the worse when she suffered from heart failure. “We obviously had to discontinue therapy for speech and focus on her heart and recovery,” Davis says. “When we came home from a month’s stay at the hospital, ITSJC was there to provide the services of a nutritionist, because Josephine desperately needed to gain weight to handle surgery should her heart fail again. Her nutritionist came to our home and taught me what I could do to help Josephine pack on the pounds.” Today, Josephine is a healthy almost 4-year-old who never stops talking. And her mother was so impressed by the program that she’s now a board member for the organization. Each child who contacts ITSJC receives a comprehensive evaluation in all areas of development, including social-emotional, speech and language, cognitive, gross and fine motor, and selfhelp development. Screenings for nutrition, vision, and hearing are also completed. “A child qualifies for ongoing services if the child has a 25 percent delay in a single area of development or 20 percent delay in two or more areas,” Helfer says. “If a child has a medical diagnosis that impacts development, that child automatically qualifies for services through ITSJC.” Importantly, the physical, occupational and speech therapies

are all offered in the child’s comfort zone, namely the home or daycare. Additional services are also offered, including early childhood special education services, psychological services, nutrition monitoring, vision, transportation, assistive technology and audiology. And ITSJC’s therapists teach families how to incorporate “therapy” into every aspect of a child’s life— during play, mealtime, bath time, bedtime and other daily routines—so the therapy continues even outside of appointments. There is no waiting list for children to receive services, and 25 percent of the children served need no continued services once they turn 3 years old. ITSJC receives grant money from the state and federal government, so there’s no out-of-pocket expense to families served. Families are encouraged to let the organization bill Medicaid or private medical insurance to help defray costs, but they are not billed co-pays or deductibles. Still, despite grants and fundraisers funding remains a challenge. “We serve more than 1,500 families in Johnson County, yet our State and Federal grant money has not increased in years,” Helfer admits. “We encourage families to reach out to their local legislators every year to share their stories of success thanks to ITSJC.” “Continued funding is crucial,” adds Davis. “When you have speech problems when you’re 5, there’s a school system to help. Where do you go when your kid is 2 and can’t say, ‘mommy?’ Services are completely free and take place in your home when your schedule allows, not when a therapist is in their office. That takes the pressure off of some parents to choose between waiting to see if the issue resolves itself or to take action. It’s a no brainer. We all want to give our kids the best chance at success. ITSJC is a steppingstone for making that chance great. My family is forever grateful for the help of ITSJC and the absolutely awesome people who work there.” For more information, visit ITSJC.org. July 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle 19

Hometown Heroes

Be Awesome Today: High Five a Runner! Local runners band together against fear and for their fellow athletes Article Lisa Allen | Photography Provided

veryone needs a cheerleader. keep going. Some are motivated by music, others by seeing signs; For The High Five Station, the cheers come in the form of we’re high fiving those who appreciate a more personal touch. not only verbal encouragement, but in high fives for anyone willing Some people aren’t interested in a high five, and that’s perfectly to be on the receiving end of an encouraging palm slap as they put fine,” says Fahrenholz. “Others approach us later and thank us, one foot in front of the other in the quest to cross the finish line. saying that they appreciate what we’re doing.” Comprised of runners who were stunned by the bombing at The time commitment is small, says Fahrenholz. Each member the Boston Marathon in 2013, the group came together because high fives for a couple of hours, and on days when races overlap each worried that attending races as runners and spectators might they try to target spots in which they’ll be able to encourage the forever change because of fear. Instead of letting that fear keep largest number of people. them silent on the sidelines, they went to the Garmin Marathon “We’re runners ourselves, so we get what it’s like to be in a race,” in Kansas City—the first local marathon immediately following says Fahrenholz. the Boston bombing—with signs in tow. They cheered and they Fahrenholz started running with her husband eight years ago. high fived anyone willing to be touched. She completed her first 5K then, and has continued to run. She has “We had a blast,” says Karie Fahrenholz. Fahrenholz and her a 10K and a half marathon to her credit now, but admits that some husband Dane Johnson and friends Scott Bowling and Tricia Kyler days she still has to talk herself into getting started. She is curBowling are the original members of The High Five Station. “Even rently training for the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run so, we didn’t do it again until the following year, again at the Garmin in Squaw Valley, Calif., and is also organizing KC Local Week in Marathon. Now we have a goal to August, which aims to connect Our motivation is we know that some people and raise awareness in the greater do it at least once a month. Some people are a little appreKansas City area. really need some encouragement to keep hensive at first,” says Fahrenholz, Her husband Dane Johnson is “and they probably wonder why going. Some are motivated by music, others runner and tri-athlete, and is the we’re doing this. Our motivation “official town crier” of the High by seeing signs; we’re high fiving those who is we know that some people reFive Station, which means he’s the appreciate a more personal touch. ally need some encouragement to one in front with the High Five

20 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

Station sign at events. Johnson is a teacher who specializes in literacy education for at-risk readers. Scott Bowling is a Boston Qualifier and Ironman as well as a blogger and software developer. His wife Tricia doesn’t compete but calls herself the ultimate athletic supporter. She makes pie on Fridays in the summer, blogs and has a background in theatre. She says she attends races to ogle other peoples’ dogs in addition to honing her high fiving skills. Fahrenholz’s goal this year is to run 1,000 miles. She prefers running outdoors, because she can take in the scenery and says that she continually recommits to her running practice. Her advice to anyone who wants to run but thinks they can’t is simply to move. “Do it slow,” she says. “Take small steps, work toward a goal and just keep trying. Running is a personal challenge, and you just have to be smart about it. Listen to your body and work at your own pace, and know your own schedule. I’m not a morning person, so I don’t try to push myself then. Everyone is different, and it’s fine to make running fit into your life instead of the other way around.” Fahrenholz’s advice, combined with her passion for The High Five Station, reinforces the fact that even though running can be a very personal, solitary activity, a bit of community and encouragement can help even the most introverted runners press on. “We quickly realized that giving a little bit of joy and laughter to runners to get them through to the next mile was even better than overcoming our own fear after the Boston bombing,” she

says. “We love to see others out there running, and we love to cheer them on!” The group is in the process of branding. A logo is in the works and they are designing t-shirts that say ‘Be Awesome Today’ on the back. They welcome anyone who wants to join them in offering high fives to runners, and they update their Facebook page with current schedules and information about upcoming runs. “We love when people come to high five once, but we also love when people really get into it and come back to join us more than once. We welcome everyone who wants to spread a little bit of happiness through high fives to join us,” says Fahrenholz.

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Terrific Teacher

Jeannette Bonjour: Hometown Teacher Takes the Stage Article and Photography Megan Browne Helm

eannette Bonjour has deep roots in the Johnson County community. Born and raised here, her grandfather, an engineer, was on the school board and worked closely with the Shawnee Mission School District on building the elementary school that would eventually bear his name. Now, Jeannette is the coordinator of the English Department at Shawnee Mission East High School, teaching literature and writing to seniors. In her other life, Jeanette becomes Golde, in Fiddler On The Roof, or Madame Thenardier in Les Miserables or Miss Watson in an upcoming musical Big River and she gets to “walk the boards” with some of the best local actors and actresses in Kansas City. Influential local teachers gave her a solid foundation in acting and directing. Teachers like Ellie Light, Judy Barnes and Max Brown provided Jeannette with unparalleled opportunities to explore roles both on stage and off. Through innovative school productions like Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta The Mikado and the black box drama, Inherit The Wind by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee, Jeannette was able to immerse herself in a variety of styles and genres. Experience and talent made it possible for her to be accepted to the highly 22 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

prestigious directing program at Southern Methodist University but it only took a year in the pressure cooker-like atmosphere to realize she needed something different to thrive. The next year, she transferred to the University of Kansas and began her adventure toward an undergraduate degree in theater/voice. A master’s degree and certification in English education soon followed and the rest is history. Jeannette has performed on community stages all around the metro including Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park, the Olathe Community Theatre, the Chestnut Fine Arts Center and The White Theatre. This July Jeannette will make her debut at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. She will be performing Miss Watson in the Culture House Production of Big River by Roger Miller based on the Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn. A perfect Missouri summer theater offering. Jeannette doesn’t have an equity card and isn’t sure she wants one right now. She is happy putting her voice and talent to work for local, home-grown productions and hopes to be able to direct some in the future. But she does toy with the idea of hitting Broadway when she retires. Thank goodness for Kansas City, that won’t be for a while.

The Culture House Production of Big River July 25 & 26 The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts For tickets and information contact CultureHouse.GetMyTix.net/Ticketing or call 913.393.3141.

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Excellence is Par for the Course at Ironhorse Golf Club Article Lisa Allen | Photography Parker Harrison & Provided

hings just keep getting better at Ironhorse Golf Club. That sounds more like hyperbole than truth, especially knowing that the club debuted at the top: when it opened in 1995 Golf Digest Magazine named it the number one public golf course in the state of Kansas. But that’s the essence of this hidden gem tucked into a community off of 154th Street and Mission Road: solid roots, big dreams and one of the most picturesque courses in the Midwest. The course, a par 72 championship 18hole layout, is a favorite among local golfers and has been lauded in national press. Being a public club also sets it apart from other metro area courses; the opportunity to pay and play means anyone can enjoy an afternoon of golf, lunch at the on-site restaurant or both. Owned by the City of Leawood and managed by Troon Golf, the course is Audubon International Certified, meaning the club strives to enhance native areas on the property while minimizing the damaging impact humans can have on

24 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

natural ecosystems. On any given day on the course, golfers might see ducks, geese, woodpeckers, hawks and herons. Ponds are home to carp, catfish, bass and bluegill and the end of the fairway—hole number 15—is home to a wetland area that’s been preserved for wildlife only. Ironhorse boasts a bevy of other awards: third in the ‘Best New Affordable Golf Course in the United States category of Golf Digest Magazine in 1996; Troon Golf’s Most Improved Facility in 2011-2012 and Top 100 Golf Shops by Golfworld . Ironhorse has been rated four stars by Golf Digest. Chat with the staff, however, and it’s not accolades they talk about. It’s people. People like Skip Maiwald, lead instructor for the Troon Golf Academies and head of golf instruction at Ironhorse. Maiwald

has been ranked by Golf Digest as a top instructor in the state of Kansas for the past ten years—consecutively—and is a past lead instructor for ESPN Golf Schools. Maiwald started working with Whitney Pyle, assistant golf professional, when she was 11 years old. She went on to play in college and now is working toward her PGA Professional accreditations while she instructs at Ironhorse. The staff focuses on programs for all ages: there are Junior and Ladies Leagues, Junior and Kids Camp and the First Tee Program. Maiwald runs the CHAMPS program, which is in its 17th season and is designed to prepare junior golfers for competitive play on local, regional and national levels. CHAMPS is offered all year, while Junior and Kids Camps are offered only during the summer. continued >

Ironhorse boasts a bevy of impressive awards: Third in the ‘Best New Affordable Golf Course in the United States’ category of Golf Digest Magazine in 1996; Troon Golf’s Most Improved Facility in 2011-2012 and Top 100 Golf Shops by Golfworld. Ironhorse has been rated four stars by Golf Digest.

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The instruction isn’t just limited to kids. The Troon Golf Academy offers customizable one-day lessons for individuals and groups that are tailored to each golfer’s needs. Private lessons are also offered, and various clinics are scheduled that focus on particular aspects of the sport. The driving range is always busy, the two putting greens are favorites and the club offers a short game course that is always a draw. “Troon Golf’s mission is to create extraordinary guest experiences by delivering superior services, amenities and playing surfaces. Consistency is a key to our success on a global scale. At Ironhorse we take great pride in delivering a professional experience for our guests,” says General Manager Jamie West. Ironhorse is home to countless tournaments, many of which take advantage of the on-site food and beverage services to grill outside or host parties inside. Amy Adent, food and beverage director, says that the club has become busier every year, and enjoys both the day-to-day restaurant business and the opportunity to accommodate special events and parties. Bachelor parties, birthday parties, rehearsal dinners and the like are the typical events currently hosted at Ironhorse. Rather than ordering off the daily menu, Adent works with each group and focuses on buffets. Menu selections are diverse, though she says that burgers and brats are consistent favorites. “We always have a daily special, and you can see that we have groups of tables pushed together here,” says Adent. “We don’t put them that way; people meet here, and they sit and talk before and after they’ve been out on the course. It’s pretty great to see how much they enjoy each other’s company, regardless if they’re playing or grabbing a bite to eat.” Adent has been at Ironhorse for 10 years, four in her current capacity. She says that the club just keeps getting better and better, and she’s excited about the current plans to expand. Bret Rogers, who works in the Pro Shop, says that the plans have been drawn and everyone is excited about the expansion. “They’ll build off the outer wall of the restaurant,” he says, “So what you see now will be double the size once it’s all done. It’s really going to be something.” To book tee times and learn more, visit IronHorseGolf.com.

Star Student

Dancing From the Heart Article Sheri Wills Thompson Photography Alexis Cook

ometimes your feet hurt, you just want to quit, and you have to say no to other activities you’d like to participate in. But, if you persevere through the hardships, you reach a place of great satisfaction, pride in a job well done, and actually realize all that sacrifice has led to a place that is not only rewarding but fun! Olivia Carter from Blue Valley High School knows this first hand. Since she was three years old, Carter has participated in various forms of dance including jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary and ballet. Having studied at Denise’s Dance Academy in the past and currently a student of Miller Marley Youth Ballet, Carter has had the opportunity to perform in many shows and musicals including a personal favorite, Zombie Prom, with Music Theater for Young People and last year’s Sound Of Music, a production of Leawood Stage Company. Carter started learning dance at age 3. As she grew up, she tried various sports—basketball, volleyball, soccer—but learned that she loved dance, any kind of dance, more. To her, dance is a sport and she works to be the best she can be. As a teen, Carter is active in the music program at Blue Valley High School and has been the dance captain for “Classy Ladies,” the show choir at BVHS. This summer, Carter will again join the cast of Leawood Stage Company (LSC) in this summer’s production of Hello Dolly. As a member of the Feature Dance group, she will be on stage during most of that show, but according Carter, that’s the fun part! In order to become a member of the cast of Hello Dolly, Carter prepared a song and performed it for the judges. Then, she had 10-15 minutes to learn a short dance routine and perform it with a group. She was very excited to be placed as a Feature Dancer for this summer’s show. Rehearsals started on June 1 at the Lodge at Ironwoods and continued each Sunday through Thursday until opening night, which will be on July 17. Again, there will be times when Carter and the rest of the cast are tired, when their feet hurt and muscles ache, when they want to do something that conflicts with the rehearsal schedule, but they also know that the performance at the end of the journey is worth all of the effort. Carter particularly enjoys working with LSC. She has found the cast, directors and crew to be friendly, helpful and engaged in the goal of everyone having a positive experience and putting on a quality show. LSC is in its 16th year of providing quality musical theater for residents and guests in the southern Johnson County 28 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

area. Each year, approximately 10,000 people enjoy one or more of their local productions which are held in three locations: the Oak Room of the Community Center of City Hall, the outdoor amphitheater at Ironwoods Park and the Lodge at Ironwoods Park. Carter’s performance in Hello Dolly will take place at the amphitheater. The show will be held for seven nights starting on July 17 and will involve approximately 100 volunteers. While she is often busy with shows, Carter does find time for other interests. In school, she is part of the Rep Theater and is a Tiger Mentor which involves meeting with the incoming freshman class students and helping them get acclimated to life at BVHS. She also enjoys writing, reading and loves to volunteer. She especially likes working in Matthew’s Ministry, a ministry for persons with special needs and their families, led by Church of the ResHello Dolly Show Information urrection in Leawood. July 17-20 and July 24-26 It will be a busy summer 8 p.m. for Carter, but she is up for Ironwoods Park Amphitheater the challenge!

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A New Look at the New Zoo Superior Displays Delight the Senses Article Jenny Wolff | Photography Provided

anicured gardens frame the clean and wide concrete walkways. Native varieties of annuals and perennials line the zoo paths. Nearly as many plant variations bloom as animal species entertain at the updated Kansas City Zoo. The beautiful and cultivated horticulture display is designed to give you the feeling that a splendid day is ahead. Indeed it is. As you move along the sculpted zoo trail, generously overflowing baskets of petunias greet you from Victorian-era light posts. You will meet many live animals on your journey to the far reaches of the earth, but you will also encounter beautiful bronze sculptures, including a bear and a flock of pelicans. These solid replicas are left to fend for themselves among the wilds of human zoo visitors. You may want to approach them cautiously and with reverence. Acknowledge their elegance. Then, nuzzle up close! Wrap your arms around a neck and ask your family to snap a photo. Post it on Instagram with the caption: “We love the zoo!” In 2011, Jackson and Clay County residents voted in a oneeighth cent sales tax to support the zoo. As a result, the Kansas City Zoo will add one new major feature each year. The Helzberg Penguin Plaza opened in 2013, and that exhibit along with the polar bear habitat, is making attendance soar and will soon be close to a million visitors. New for this year is Tuxedo Grill, a casual restaurant right next to Penguin Plaza. So, if you haven’t been to the zoo in a few years, or a few decades, consider making the excursion. Here is an up close look at the biggest attractions. Polar Bear Passage

A wood, stone and glass enclosure is home to the polar bears. The rooftop of their abode is covered with green succulents, giving the building an earthy, natural and environmentally friendly feel. After walking down the shaded path, you will find yourself at the bottom of a 140,000-gallon glass-in pool. The pool is surrounded by a flowing waterfall, faux ice-covered rocky ledges and a sand pit. Here you 32 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

come face-to- face with Nikita, a 1,000-pound polar bear. Nikita is a water gymnast. He sails right up to the glass, pushes off the stone sides of his pool with his padded paws and back flips right in front of you. He then spins onto his tummy and does it all again. Nikita, who loves an audience, shares his habitat with a much shyer female companion, Berlin. She cautiously explores the rock ledge above Nikita. Polar bears spend much of their lives alone, roaming the ice. These creatures have excellent vision and their small, tapered heads cut through the ocean like the bow of a ship. Polar bears are native to the frozen Arctic Ocean around the North Pole. If you want to see one in the wild, you will need to travel to Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Norway or Russia. Helzberg Penguin Plaza

This jewel of an exhibit sparkles for all to see. Out front of Helzberg Penguin Plaza, named for the renowned Kansas City family of jewelers, stretches a walkable map of the South Pole that illustrates where the world’s penguins live. A step closer and you will encounter tiny penguins sunning in open air. These are the Humbolts, the shortest and stockiest of the birds on display. In May, a mother Humboldt named Beatrice hatched a baby, and daddy Veto took turns with mama sitting on the nest. Mid-summer, a second happy penguin pair is due to hatch another egg.

Wander inside and you will meet the Southern Rockhoppers. These funky friends have a stripe of shaggy yellow feathers above their red eyes. Further inside the building, you will meet the Gentoo species. These friendly fellows have a triangular patch of white above each eye and their bright bills match their orange webbed feet. The Gentoos look like mini toddlers at 12 pounds and two-and-a-half feet tall. These cute, but wobbly flightless birds give the impression that you could pick one up and give it a hug. Because of their flipper-like wings, they are unlikely to return the affection. So, stand aside and watch as they throw back their wings, puff out their chests and dive head-first into the freezing pool. Look up to the right in their glass-enclosed arctic home and you will see manmade snow falling into their habitat. The Gentoos live alongside the King Penguins, the tallest of the species at the Kansas City Zoo. Each of the Kings has orange cheek patches, and their sleek and shimmering gray feathers sparkle with wa-

ter. In the wild, their backs serve as camouflage from predators, making them hard to see from above in dark ocean waters. Take a Walk (or Ride) on the Wild Side

The Kansas City Zoo covers more than 200 acres, and you can reach all of the exhibits on foot. However, if you would like to take a load off your feet and add some variety to the day, choose any of the four transportation options—one way or round trip. African Sky Safari – Ride above the African Plains and keep a lookout below! Under your feet roam cheetahs, lions, giraffes and rhinos. This seven-minute ride lands you near one of the best chimpanzee exhibits in the world. Zoo Tram – Pick up the tram at the station near the main zoo entrance. This open-air ride takes you past elephants and flamingos, and across a river bridge to the African Market. Zoo Train – All aboard! For a model-railroad experience everyone will enjoy, climb onto the train. You will roll through the

central portion of the zoo, with stops at the main entrance and Australia. Look out for kangaroos and camels along the way. Mombasa Crystal Boat – Reminiscent of a ride on the African Queen, the Mombasa is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day and on weekends in April, May, September and October. The boat travels across the lake in the zoo’s African Plains.

What to Wear • Comfortable shoes • Hat or visor • Sunglasses • Animal print shirt (optional)

What to Bring • Sunscreen • Water bottle • Camera • Picnic or lunch money • A sense of humor (see jokes below) • Adventurous spirit (required)

Zoo Humor If a dictionary goes from A to Z, what goes from Z to A? A zebra! That is just a sampling of the kind of kid humor you will enjoy on your trip to the Kansas City Zoo. Be sure to take a ride on the Mombasa Crystal, the boat to Africa. Your guide will entertain you with a couple more zoo jokes. Or, cut out the following section and take it along to entertain the kid in all of us. Jokes for Kids (clip and save)

How is your trip into the wilds of Africa going? Safari, so goodie. Knock, knock. Who’s there? Gorilla. Gorilla who? Gorilla me a hamburger. I’m starving! Why is the desert lion everyone’s favorite at Christmas? Because he has sandy claws! What is a snake’s favorite subject in school? Hiss-tory! When do kangaroos celebrate birthdays? During Leap Year! What is a penguin’s favorite salad? Iceberg lettuce! What do polar bears sing at a birthday party? Freeze a Jolly Good Fellow! Where do snow leopards keep their money? In a snow bank.

July 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle 33

Omaha Serves Up a Full Plate of Summer Vacation Pleasure This friendly city offers heaping portions of fun, sophisticated and tasty attractions.

Article Kimberly Winter Stern | Photography Provided

Midtown Crossing

f your calendar has room for a summer sojourn not too far away nightlife scene and top-drawer live performances. Diverse lodgfrom home, consider Omaha. Our affable Nebraska neighbor ing options aim to deliver sweet dreams when you’re ready to tuck bubbles with possibilities for discovery, relaxation and leisure. in at the end of the night. Omaha speaks our language, too: friendly Midwestern, true to So if your summer agenda is still in need of a convenient getits roots, thriving in 21st century innovative and progressive values. away in the heart of the Midwest, dig into Omaha’s full plate of Best of all, Omaha brims five-course fun. No matter with the five “musts” any your appetite for chilling, visitor seeks in a destinathis cool, laid-back town tion: shopping, culture, enbeckons with sophisticated tertainment, accommodasurprises, interactive expetions and dining. riences and tasty cuisine. Just under a three-hour Power Shop car ride from Kansas City, Omaha has plenty of shopOmaha’s streets and neightil-you drop experiences, borhoods are easily navigatincluding Regency Court, ed for a long weekend with Oak View Mall, Westroads the kids or the girls or an Mall, Village Pointe Shopintergenerational adventure. ping Center, One Pacific And if a pamper-perfect roOld Market Entertainment District Place and Nebraska Crossing mantic overnight is on your Outlets. There are charming neighborhoods such as Dundee to exsummer bucket list, Omaha is your ticket to bliss. Even if it’s your first time to Omaha, the city is familiar, em- plore and the iconic and historic Old Market, considered Omaha’s bracing and welcoming, making visitors feel at home with desti- premier arts and entertainment district. This scenic cobblestoned nation star power. Customize your trip’s itinerary with excursions street area in downtown has everything a traveler hankers for: lodgto eclectic boutiques and world-class art and museums; vibrant, ing, bars, restaurants, bakeries and brewpubs, art galleries, and block independently owned restaurants; exciting sporting events; hot after block of shopping. Standouts: Anderson-O’Brien Fine Art, La

34 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

Buvette Wine and Grocery, Le Bouillon Restaurant, Upstream Brewing Company, Nouvelle Eve women’s clothing, The Berry and Rye craft cocktail room and much more. Culture Club

Inspiration, education and reflection on the past, present and future are showcased in Omaha’s diverse museums. Housed in a magnificent 1931 Art Deco building constructed from Georgia Pink marble, Joslyn Art Museum is a Nebraska jewel. Schedule a morning to browse collections and galleries displaying ancient European art, Greek pottery and American paintings and sculptures. Stroll through the Peter Kiewit Foundation Sculpture Garden and Discovery Garden, pick up something special in the gift shop or sip a latte in the café atrium where Dale Chihuly’s permanent installations catch the light. The Strategic Air and Space Museum focuses on historic U.S. Air Force military aircraft, nuclear missiles and space vehicles and offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the world’s top collections of strategic aircraft. The General Crook House Museum highlights a Civil War and National Indian Wars hero; the Durham Museum houses exhibits emphasize Omaha’s critical role as Gateway to the West; and the Omaha Children’s Museum ignites imaginations regardless of age.

Old Market

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Applause, Applause

Omaha’s animal attraction is known throughout the world because of Nebraska’s most popular stop, the 130-acre Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Renowned for its exhibits, animal conservation and research, the zoo is home to more than 962 species. Catch an Omaha Storm Chasers game in Werner Park; a performance at the Omaha Community Playhouse by the country’s largest community theater or a production at The Rose Theater, one of the nation’s most acclaimed children’s theaters. Nighty-Night

When your day of Omaha-ing is finished, kick off your shoes at a family-friendly hotel such as the Ramada Plaza, attached to the Coco Key Water Resort. The newly renovated property offers on-site dining continued >

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and easy access off Interstate 80 to popular attractions. Element Omaha Midtown Crossing is a modern, eco-friendly urban oasis, just a few miles from TD Ameritrade Park and walking distance to restaurants, bars, bakeries and shopping. A LEED Certified Hotel, Element features upscale amenities, the Westin signature Heavenly™ bed and spa-inspired bathrooms. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, free fitness center and beautifully appointed studios and suites. The hotel even has a fleet of bicycles so guests can take a spin around the neighborhood. Tasteful Omaha

Taking a bite out of Omaha’s food scene is easy — the city is chock-full of creative eateries and craft breweries that emphasize local ingredients. Once known simply for legendary sizzling steakhouses, Omaha has earned well-deserved culinary stripes by expanding its palate and repertoire to include chef-driven, ethnic and fusion restaurants; juicy burger joints; quaint sidewalk cafes; innovative bakeries that stock cases with artisan goods; and coffee shops featuring locally roasted beans. Here are some marquee-worthy Omaha originals at the top of their game to whet your appetite — and whistle. Brix, which bills itself as a “unique wine and spirits experience,” is located in Midtown Crossing and Village Pointe Shopping Center. Signature lunch, happy hour and dinner (and brunch at Midtown Crossing) dishes are served such as margherita flatbread, plank salmon, bruschetta pasta and more. Sixty-four wines are dispensed by the ounce or glass through Brix’s innovative Enomatic and WineEmotion Wine Serving Systems and you can sip to your heart’s content at one of Omaha’s largest martini and craft beer menus. Make room in the car trunk, because you’re sure to pick up a six-pack or three after browsing the Midwest’s largest selection of craft and specialty beers from across the United States and the world. Sophisticated interiors, knowledgeable staff, great noshes to pick up and more — including tasting events — Brix is a spirited, hopping-good place to put your feet up after a day of sightseeing and shopping. Pitch Coal-Fire Pizzeria is the latest culinary ingénue from Omaha resident and Godfather’s Pizza founder Willy Theisen (who might be as well-known in the city as the other man whose name starts with a “W”—Warren Buffett). Proving he’s no one36 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

trick pony, Theisen has not only lovingly resurrected the Dundee historic neighborhood west of Midtown where he opened Pitch, he’s developed a crowd-pleasing, from-scratch menu that spans items from hand-rolled Calabrese meatballs to house-cured charcuterie, fork-crisp salads, house-made pappardelle and show-stopping coal-fired burgers. Theisen didn’t leave out his first love — pizza — and the pies that emerge from the restaurant’s ovens are Pitch-perfect. Of course, the restaurant has Theisen’s let’sget-it-right-the-first-time stamp all over it: from stellar service, a delightfully hip bar and well-placed dining tables to the restrooms whose interior motifs rival five-star hotels, Pitch is a sublime place to eat lunch, while away happy hour into dinner and enjoy an experience created by a true showman. Be sure to check out the wine list, which includes the Pitch Black house red and Pitch White house unoaked chardonnay. Reservations recommended. The Grey Plume is Chef/Owner Clayton Chapman’s homage to his childhood roots. An Omaha native, the celebrated James Beard-nominated culinarian collaborates with local and regional producers and growers to ensure a from-scratch, authentic farmto-table philosophy. The handsome restaurant is in located in Midtown Crossing and boasts a fan following far outside Omaha’s borders. Chapman and his team roast their own coffee (available for purchase in Grey Plume’s well-curated retail nook by the bar) and make in-house the pastas, compound butters and divine breads. The menu honors the rhythm of the seasons, so dishes are always rotating — but diners are guaranteed to swoon over Chapman’s signature brush stroke apparent in each well-executed course. Reservations are recommended. Omaha’s craft beer scene is on fire, and perhaps nowhere is that more evident than in the northwest burg of historic Benson, dubbed the Omaha Beer District. Pull up a barstool at Benson Brewery, a cozy neighborhood brewpub serving up food and fresh beer in a renovated 1910s movie theatre. Quaff a beer in the Infusion Brewing Co.’s Tap Room, take a brewery tour or learn to make your own. And if you still need a fix for what ails you, visit Beer Corner USA in the Midtown neighborhood where it’s a dream come true for suds lovers. Four locations, including Crescent Moon, Huber-Haus, Max and Joe’s and Beertopia, guarantee 60-plus beers on tap every day. For more information on planning a trip to Omaha, go to VisitOmaha.com for current events and happenings.

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Lions, Tigers and Elephants! Oh, My! Leawood family experiences a multi-generational trip of a lifetime. Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography Hanelore Brown

nplugged. Unspoiled. Unbelievable. Definitely unforgettable….and once you catch a glimpse of the fun-filled adventure the Brown family of Leawood had two summers ago, you will completely understand how they not only experienced a spectacular vacation, but also gained a new perspective on life. Even though they packed lightly for this out-of-the-box adventure, they returned home with so much more. For two life-changing weeks, Hannelore Brown and various members of her immediate and extended families discovered a new perspective on life as they visited Africa and embarked on a safari that had far more of an impact upon them than they ever realized it would. The impetus behind this grand adventure was the 75th birthday celebration of the wife of Brown’s dad, Dr. John Snyder. Nancy Snyder’s parents had previously ventured to Africa three times and she decided she wanted to enjoy a similar experience to commemorate her special day. The pitch was made to the family and without missing a beat, they all happily agreed. Brown’s immediate family, which includes husband Scott, an intellectual property attorney; daughters Heidi (now 21); Erika (19), Sophie (16) and son Hamilton (13), did not have to think twice before packing their bags. “It seemed like a tremendous undertaking at first, but it all turned out beautifully,” notes Brown, referencing the 13 adults and 13 kids, ranging from age five to 75, who comprised the entourage. “We all flew in to Nairobi from all corners of the country and set out on an adventure unlike any other we have ever experienced.”

38 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

Their journey began at Laikipia Plateau at the Archers Post in Kenya. Nestled below the equator, the average temperature at the time was 85 degrees, accompanied by very tolerable dry air. In fact, at times it would fall into the lower 40s or upper 30s at night. A lesser-known wildlife area that is off the beaten path, this slice of

Heaven on Earth offers visitors a chance to really embrace the wilderness at a relaxed and inviting pace. Split into several groups and taking over seven older Range Rovers and Land Cruisers designed with open air tops, they would begin their daily trek around six in the morning, break for lunch around 11 a.m., and then go back out from three in the afternoon until the sun set, at which time dinner was served. “Actually, at five o’clock every day, we enjoyed ‘sundowners,’” says Brown, which consisted of Hors d’oeuvres and drinks. After a brief rest, the clan would all get back in the vehicles for some more exploring. “We would all gather again and compare notes at dinner, talking about the things we saw and learned,” she says. As for the food, the family was introduced to some unusual fare, such as goat meat; sweet potatoes that look like regular potatoes but are sweet; and a special kind of grain that could be mashed together and used to scoop up stew. “We had a traveling kitchen and the food was very civilized,” says Brown. “They would even make homemade bread. Everything was wonderful.” The evening entertainment was equally exciting, as each night the Samburu warriors would sing and dance, inviting their guests to join in the fun.

“The kids loved getting into the action and even dressed up in the traditional kikoys, the wrapped skirts these warriors wear,” says Brown. The guides set up tents nightly, but these were not the Boy Scout/pup tent variety. Fairly big and sophisticated, each tent had a wooden floor and a makeshift shower, which consisted mainly of a hose and a showerhead. Simplicity at its finest. “On this trip, it was all about the basics,” stressed Brown. “There was no make up; no hair-dos; just getting clean, like military showers.” The tents were all nestled close to a small river at night and were patrolled by the guides, although Brown never really felt threatened or in harm’s way the whole trip. “The guides would walk us from our dining tent to our sleeping tents and kept a night watch,” she explains. “In reality, we feared poachers more than the wild animals.” Sadly, Brown and her family learned that every 15 minutes, an elephant is horrifically killed at the hands of poachers. Brown confesses that since the safari, she does not know if she will ever have the heart to visit a zoo again. “When you see these creatures out in the wild, you gain a new perspective. They are not all penned up or limited in their movements,” she expresses. “In the jungle, you see the spirits of who they truly are.” Educated along the way by a group of fourth generation Kenyans and the Samburu guides, Brown and her family continued >

July 2014 | Leawood Lifestyle 39

lions, tigers, and elephants

(continued)

acquired far more knowledge than any book or classroom setting could ever provide. “They taught us all about the animals, how they live and how they interact with the land,” she says. “They also taught us a little bit of the Swahili language.” Brown likens the experience to a having a front row seat at the best lecture series in the world. “We learned that elephants are highly intelligent creatures and actually have a language beyond our range of hearing. They can communicate across vast distances and simply being in the midst of these magnificent animals was amazing,” smiles Brown. Self-confessed biology geeks, the Browns absorbed every bit of information they could with all of their senses. They learned about cultural issues, history, geography and more. “We were completely unplugged from technology the whole time we were over there,” notes Brown. As a result, they returned to the states with new interests and a passion to do things to make this world a better place and to embrace a pro-active mentality when it comes to preserving wildlife and conservation. For example, Brown’s niece returned from the excursion with an interest in raising money to build a well for a bush community in Africa, where water is at a premium. Additionally, Brown’s children jumped on the elephant bandwagon. “They designed t-shirts and sold them, raising $950 for Elephant and Predator Aware, a group established by one of our guides, Will, and his sister, as a way to teach tribesmen how to peacefully live with these large predators. This group tracks elephants and keeps the poachers at bay,” notes Brown. As the adventure drew to a close, no one wanted to leave. After all, they had spent their days in close company with elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes and more. What better company is that for an amazing vacation? “Lots of tears were shed,” reflects Brown, who notes they still keep in touch with their guides. “The head guide, Billy Norris, came to visit us last year, which was a special time.” Is a return visit on the agenda? Without a doubt! 40 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

“We want to do a medical trip,” explains Brown. “We visited a health clinic while at Archers Post, which consisted of just two rooms and was overseen by Sister Matilda, the only health care professional within a 100-mile radius. My sister is an OB/GYN and we delivered supplies to them, which inspired us to consider a medical trip, perhaps arranging a traveling clinic for women and children.” The family also visited a local school, bringing school supplies to the children. As a result, Brown’s two oldest daughters have been inspired to help organize a safari company geared for college students so they can help build much-needed classrooms, playgrounds and even help in the clinic while simultaneously enjoying the African safari experience. A win-win for everyone! Even though this family traveled to a land far away, in the end, they brought the world closer to them as a result. For more information on the Elephant and Predator Aware programs, go online at WildlifeConservation.org, or ElephantAware.org which will also lead you to their Facebook pages. The safari company the Brown family used was RoyalAfricanSafaris.com.

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Field Trip

Travel Back in Time in Independence A Tour of the Bingham-Waggoner Estate Article Lisa Allen | Photography Provided

spent a day in Independence without touring a single Truman attraction, and I loved it. Instead, I let my imagination run wild at how life must have been before I could flick a switch to turn on a furnace or an air conditioner, and marveled at the detail of hand-painted ceilings, marble fireplaces, scores of memorabilia and original works of art at the Bingham-Waggoner Estate. The focal point of the estate is a gorgeous and meticulously preserved Italianate Villa-style house. The original structure, built in 1852 by John Lewis, had only six rooms. It’s been called home by artist and politician George Caleb Bingham and then by the Waggoner family. All told, the house served as a family home for almost 100 years. When the youngest of the Waggoner clan, Henry, passed away in 1976, a group of private citizens worked with the City of Independence to purchase the home and the surrounding 19.5 acres for a museum and park. Few people realize that while the Estate is owned by the City of Independence, the Bingham-Waggoner Historical Society is solely responsible for all operations of the Estate. Every tour is led by a volunteer, and Melody tells me that each volunteer tends to talk about different aspects of the home and the estate’s history, based on his or her own individual interests. Melody starts at the original entrance to the home, which opens into a living room/sitting area on the left and what is thought to be an office on the right. The pocket doors are nailed open and the heavy curtains can be pulled shut to preserve privacy or to keep the temperature just right.

42 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

There is no wallpaper in the house; instead the walls are adorned with hand painted designs, painted canvas or needlework. The intricate details speak to the attention to detail and the forethought that went into planning the home; Melody talks of how the City of Independence defined a room as a space with a door in which one could turn around, and muses that perhaps that’s why there are no closets in the original portion of the home. Instead, there are built-in and enclosed shelves that contain books in the office and quilts on the upper level. The home is filled with artwork, one of which is a Bingham original. During his time in the home he painted one of his most famous works, “Order No. 11.” There are other paintings by a granddaughter as well as the Waggoners’ marriage license, crystal chandeliers, a rare and enormous music box and a Steinway piano, among other antiques. Melody shared stories about most, and took the time to show my daughter how the music box works; the best part of the day for her was listening and watching to see when the “musicians” on the inside would play a cymbal in tune with the music. My favorite part of the tour was the kitchen. In the center of the enormous dining room is a custom-built table that can seat up to twenty. But it’s the light fixtures that fascinate me most: the huge chandelier topped with a gold crown, a nod to the Waggoner family’s history of “Queen of the Pantry Flour” and the green stained glass pendants that seem out of place. “They obviously don’t fit,” says Melody, “but Mrs. Waggoner brought them in and said she wanted them. She was told that they didn’t work with the rest of the décor, but you can see who won.

She was the driving force behind the dining room, because it was she who wanted a bigger space.” The dining room gives way to the kitchen, complete with an original ice box. Melody grabs a cardboard sign sitting in the window and, pointing to the numbers—25, 50, 75, 100—explains that the sign was how staff communicated with the ice man when he made his deliveries. If the 50 was facing up, he’d deliver 50 pounds of ice through the special door that allowed him to stay outside but deposit the ice directly into the marble and glass ice box. When the Waggoners added on to the original home, they expanded the space from six rooms to 26. There are three levels to the home, the top being the servants’ quarters. Melody points out the transoms in the bedrooms upstairs; they only exist in the rooms that were part of the addition. Each level of the home is used during the different events that take place throughout the year at the estate. As we left, we asked the volunteers where the locals go to lunch and they told us the favorite is Dave’s Bakery and Deli. Our BLTs came on freshly baked bread, which is the norm at Dave’s, and the bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked cakes, cheesecakes, cookies and ice cream. Dave’s Bakery and Deli is on The Square, an area that includes restaurants, a movie theater, a bowling alley and shops. We wander in and out of second hand stores, pick up Christmas ornaments even though it’s sweltering outside (one vintage shop has a year-round Christmas selection) and try on funky hats for silly pictures. Because we visited during a weekday, there were no crowds, and behind every door we found a smiling, helpful and welcoming host. Our last stop was Clinton’s Soda Fountain for a sweet treat before heading home. After explaining to my daughter what a ‘phosphate’ is—a fizzy drink with soda water and flavoring—she opted for a S’Mores Sundae, but not before trying to count the push pins on the ‘Where Do You Hang Your Hat’ map that shows from which corners of the world visitors have come to get a little taste of what feels like yesterday.

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Pictured at the site are members of the commission, Mayor Peggy Dunn and residents Gordon and Rheta Henke.

Leawood Historic Commission Dedicates Historic Plaques Article April Bishop | Photography Janet O’Neal

he Leawood Historic Commission and Leawood Parks and Recreation Department recently dedicated two bronze plaques on site at 86th and Belinder Road. The signs are dedicated to the first owner of the land, Doctor Grey Eyes of the Wyandot Tribe. The Wyandot Tribe of northwestern Ohio was moved into Kansas as the result of the Wyandot Treaty of 1842. The treaty exchanged remaining lands in Michigan and Ohio for monetary concessions and promised 34 tribal leaders a square mile section of land in Indian Territory west of the state of Missouri. Months after their arrival, the Wyandots purchased 39 square miles of land from the Delaware tribe running from the Missouri

River on the north to the Kansas River on the south and west to present day 72nd Street. On January 31, 1855, after five years of effort, the Wyandot Tribal Council signed a treaty dissolving their tribal status, allowing that all competent Wyandots divided ownership of the lands of the Wyandot Purchase among individual members of the tribe who wished to become a U.S. citizen. Most land allotment sections were located within the Wyandot Purchase; however, any unclaimed land could be allocated. Section 34 of present day Johnson County, granted by President Buchanan to Doctor Grey Eyes, was unclaimed land formerly part of the Shawnee Reserve.

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Healthy Lifestyle

My Child has a Tick Bite… T

icks are in the news a lot this time of year. And this summer, due to increased temperatures and increased rainfall, there are supposed to be even more of those little buggers. Here are a few tips on how to prevent tick bites and what to do if your child is bitten. The first mode of protection is prevention. If you and your family are going to be in wooded areas, wear protective clothing and hats and walk in the center of the trails. In addition, either spray exposed skin and clothing with products that contain at least 2030 percent DEET, or use Permethrin treated clothing and camping wear. It is important to do frequent “tick checks” while hiking or camping—Lyme Disease can only be spread if the tick has been attached for greater than 24 hours, so removing those guys as quickly as possible is important. If you find a tick, take a pair of fine tweezers, grab the tick as close to the skin as possible and gently pull until the tick releases. If you leave some mouth parts in the skin, that is ok—there is no higher risk of your child getting Lyme disease if the head is left behind. Clean the area with alcohol and check the site several times over the next month or so for any sign of a circular rash. A trip to the doctor is not necessary unless you are having trouble removing the tick, or you begin to see a rash at the site of the bite. What is Lyme Disease? It is a disease caused by a bacteria transmitted to humans by blacklegged ticks. 95 percent of the cases of Lyme Disease reported occur in twelve states, and Kansas and Missouri are not part of those twelve. According to the CDC, the incidence of Lyme Disease in Kansas in 2012 was 0.3/100,000 cases. There were only 9 confirmed cases in 2012 in

Kansas. And keep in mind that the state reporting the disease is the state where the patient resides, not necessarily the state where they may have been exposed. So relax, practice good prevention techniques and enjoy your summer! This healthful information is provided by our friends at After Hours Pediatrics, located at 143rd and Metcalf. Find them online at After-HoursPediatrics.com.

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Driver’s Notebook

Ram HD Mixes Work with Comfort Article Tom Strongman | Photography Tom Strongman and Chrysler

hen it comes to trucks, bigger is usually better: More power, more payload, more towing capacity. Trucks, by definition, are for work, even though many of them are rarely used for it. The Ram 2500 HD can be powered by a 5.7-liter Hemi, a 6.4-liter Hemi or a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel. The all-new 6.4-liter Hemi has 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, figures that Chrysler says are best in class. This engine has variable valve timing, cooled exhaust gas recirculation and a dual-runner intake manifold that increases low-speed torque and high-speed power. Four cylinders are deactivated under light loads for fuel economy. Maximum towing capacity is 16,300 pounds and maximum payload is 3,972 pounds. The four-wheel-drive system can be engaged on the fly with a knob on the instrument panel. Trucks are available in so many sizes and 50 Leawood Lifestyle | July 2014

configurations that one could spend hours poring over pages of specifications. My choice was easy. It was a 2500 Crew Cab Laramie Longhorn 4X4 from Chrysler’s press fleet, and it was a prime example of how civilized trucks have become. With heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel, trailer brake controller, nine-speaker audio and keyless ignition, Chrysler calls it the most luxurious truck they’ve ever built. The $58,715 sticker price reflects that. The Laramie Longhorn has lovely leather on the seats, console and door panels. Chrysler describes the look as something “handcrafted,” with design cues from saddlebags or fine furniture. The rear seat folds down to create a flat load floor for additional hauling. The 8.4-inch touchscreen in the center of the instrument panel has some of the best graphics I’ve seen. Operation is simple and straightforward.

An empty truck is likely to ride rough because the suspension is tuned to handle a heavy load. Chrysler has addressed this issue with a five-link rear axle with coil springs. Coil springs are less harsh than traditional leaf springs yet they are capable of carrying a heavy load. Chrysler has supplemented them with an optional rear air suspension that can automatically adjust to a trailer or payload. The suspension also has a load-leveling function that improves stability. The test vehicle had a short, 5-foot, 7-inch box that sacrifices some hauling capability for better maneuverability in town. The bed had adjustable tie-down racks that were handy when I moved a couple of pieces of bedroom furniture, but the tailgate was so high that climbing into the bed required a bit of gymnastics. I stepped on the running board, then the tire and then into the bed. Some competitor pickups have cutouts in the corners of the rear

point: The Laramie Longhorn 2500 is a big truck for serious work, yet the interior is as nice as many upscale sedans. The 6.4-liter Hemi engine is crisp and strong. Maximum towing is 16,300 pounds. counterpoint: Heavy duty trucks aren’t really comfortable in urban settings. The Ram sits tall and that made it a challenge to load things into the bed. Steps in the bumper would be useful.

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bumper or a step that folds down from the tailgate, and either of those items would have been handy. My more agile, much younger son had an easier time getting in, but that’s no surprise. The back-up camera can be used to line up the trailer hitch. Price: The base price of the test truck was $52,440. Options included a 4.10 axle ratio, side steps, 20-inch wheels, limited-slip differential, 6.4-liter Hemi, rear

KANSAS CITY

window defroster, trailer-tow mirrors, keyless ignition, roof-mounted clearance lamps and off-road tires. The sticker price was $58,715. Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles with a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

6.4-liter, 410-horsepower V-8 Six-speed automatic Four-wheel drive Wheelbase: 148.9 inches Curb weight: 6,467 pounds base price: $52,440 As driven: $58,715 MPG rating: Not available for heavy-duty trucks Because it’s so outrageous. engine:

Transmission:

Contact Tom Strongman at Tom@TomStrongman.com.

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