Lee's Summit Lifestyle May 2014

Lee’s Summit

may 2014

LeesSummitLifestyle.com

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For the of a Game

Spring Training Family Style Explore the Caves of Missouri Keepers of the Sandlot

YOU OWE THIS TO YOU

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Francis Joseph “Lefty” O’Doul

was an American Major League Baseball player born in San Francisco, California on March 4, 1897. O’Doul played for the Yankees, Red Socks, Giants, Phillies, and Dodgers as a left handed batter and pitcher. Lefty won the National League batting championship in 1929 and 1932 and maintains the 4th highest career batting average in the Major League history.

In 1934, O’Doul finished his playing career as a Giant with a career batting average of .349. O’Doul continued to be involved with the sport of baseball as a batting Instructor for 30 years. He was said to have had a hand in the development of Joe DiMaggio, which he refuses to take credit for and stated, “Nobody taught Joe DiMaggio how to hit. I was just smart enough to leave him alone.”

Francis Joseph “Lefty” O’Doul, passed on December 7, 1969 at the age of 72 but his spirit lives on with his original Blood Mary recipe, which is still being served in the bar he founded in San Francisco.

HHHHH Now, Kansas City is proud to continue the legacy of “Lefty O’Doul” by introducing “Lefty O’Doul’s World Famous Mixes.”

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Cosentino’s Price Chopper 1100 South 7 Highway, Blue Springs, MO 64015 1305 North 7 Highway, Blue Springs, MO 64014 251 Southwest Greenwich, Lee’s Summit, MO 64082 2101 N. Highway 7, Pleasant Hill, MO 64080 937 NE Woods Chapel Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 122 N US-169, Smithville, MO 64089 22210 W. 66th Street, Shawnee, KS 66226

Cosentino’s Sunfresh 18001 E. 24 Highway, Independence, MO 64056 10225 North Oak Trfw, Kansas City, MO 64155

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110 Hackberry (Lakefront) Lakewood — $394,500

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200 Hemlock (Waterfront) Lakewood — $459,500

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Editor's Letter

Thank you, teachers.

I used to associate June with the end of the school year. As a child of the 70s it was around June 6, 7 or 8 when our school year ended, depending on how much snow had been dumped on Chicago that year.

These days high school graduations take place during the middle of May and the school year often ends before Memorial Day weekend.

So I shift my end of the school year thinking to May. I spent the first part of my adult life as an educator. I enjoyed teaching middle school students about world geography and U.S. history.

For a few years I was able to utilize my college minor as a teacher of beginning Spanish.

And there were years when I was asked to step outside my comfort zone to teach young adult literature, public speaking and economics. For the most part, I loved my life as a teacher. It was a very family-friendly career and allowed me to be home with my two young boys by 4 o’clock most days as well as during the summer.

As my sister-in-law prepares to retire from Shawnee Mission East after an impressive 30+ year career and as my oldest prepares to graduate from the high school down the street, I’ve been thinking about some of the great teachers who touched my life. And to several of them, I wish to apologize. I have memories of painting my nails during concert band rehearsal on more than one occasion. While my music stand mate and I only did this when Mr. Herr was working with the percussion or brass, I’m confident he didn’t appreciate two flautists using his class for quick color change.

I came across a stack of my old report cards when I was cleaning out boxes of childhood memorabilia last summer. I hadn’t realized how average I was as a student. (Except in band. Manicures or not, always an A.) As a parent, I now cringe when I remember my own parents and teachers saying that I wasn’t working up to my potential. To any of the Glenbrook North teachers who were frustrated by the time I spent in their classrooms, I offer a belated apology. They might be happy to know that I finally got my act together in college and followed in their footsteps for many years.

may 2014 publication director Darla Hall | DHall@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 art director | Carrie Brophy chief sales officer Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Darla Hall | DHall@LifestylePubs.com Laura Paszkiewicz | Laura@LifestylePubs.com

advertising director | Mike Baugher production director | Christina Sandberg ad coordinator | Cyndi Vreeland regional art director | Sara Minor executive assistant | Lori Cunningham contributing writers Renee Amey, Katherine Bontrager, Chris Clark, Trisha Drape, Judy Harper Goppert, Valerie Hamaker, Susan Motley, Elizabeth Rosenberger, Ryan Rosser, Anne Potter Russ, Tom Strongman, Courtney Thomas

contributing photographers

I found among those old papers a letter from the assistant dean of student affairs. He wrote me a letter at the end of my senior year to congratulate me. Apparently it was a big enough deal to graduate among a class of more than 600 without ever having made a trip to the Dean’s office for disciplinary measures to justify a special letter. I may not have been an impressive student but apparently I was a rule follower. Some things never change and that’s got to count for something.

McKenna Mathewson, Tom Strongman, Jenny Wolff, Taylor Pemberton

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 LeesSummitLifestyle.com

To all of the teachers who have touched my life and the lives of two of the most important people in my world, I say thank you. I hope you have a great summer and get to rest and recharge in time for the mid-August start of another school year.

I’ll see you around town.

by Community ™ Proverbs 3:5-6 Contact us at:

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com on the cover Enjoy our biggest, best baseball issue

ever! Read more on pages 38, 44 & 46.

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7373 West 107th Street Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | LeesSummitLifestyle.com Lee’s Summit Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Lee’s Summit’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 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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Having More Retirement Accounts is Not the Same as Having More Money.

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Bringing your accounts to Edward Jones could help solve all that. Plus, one statement can make it easier to see if you’re moving toward your goals. *Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

To learn why consolidating your retirement accounts to Edward Jones makes sense, call your local financial advisor today. or visit CFP® any of our financial advisors in the www.edwardjones.com Lee’s Summit area.Member SIPC Thom Call Schlosser, ToAdvisor find an Edward Jones office near you, visit www.edwardjones.com.

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Tom Wilson

May 2014

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Departments 14

Good Times

22 Around Town 30 Artist’s Palette 32 Style Wise 34 Star Student 38

Your Neighbor

40 Real Wives 41 Healthy Lifestyle 52

Field Trip

54 Road Trip 58 Terrific Teacher 60 Locally Owned 63 Sold Properties 64 Giving Back

44 Take Me — and My Family — Out to the Ballgame

66 Home Matters

A Royals spring break to Surprise provides memories for a lifetime.

68 Parent’s Corner

46 Keepers of the Sandlot

Keeping the “Play” in “Play Ball!”

72

Driver’s Notebook

74

Worship Time

76 Lifestyle Calendar

48 Spelunking at its Best

82 Parting Thoughts

A world of wonder in nature’s final frontier.

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Lifestyle Publications Lee’s Summit, MO | West FW, TX | Newport Beach, CA | Paradise Valley, AZ | North Scottsdale, AZ | Chandler, AZ | Boulder, CO | Boulder County, CO Leawood, KS | Johnson County, KS | Northland, MO | BuckHaven, GA | Perimeter North, GA | Fishers, IN | OneFourteen, TX | Tulsa, OK

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visit downtownLS.org for complete event details

Mother’s Day...

She’s been there for you every day of your life. So make sure this Mother’s Day is a day you’ll both remember. Instead of picking out the same old gifts year after year, give her something she’ll treasure for years to come. A keepsake or experience that says just how special she is to you. This Mother’s Day we invite you to shop historic Downtown Lee’s Summit and discover truly one-of-a-kind gifts and treats in any of our dozens of locally-owned shops and boutiques. We think you’ll discover that our shops are as unique as your mom.

DOWNTOWN LEE’S SUMMIT UPCOMING EVENTS Farmers Market Spring Celebration May 10

Music in the Park and Fourth Friday May 23

Downtown Days...Streets Alive! Festival June 6-8

Yours Truly,

downtownls.org

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Get your life back.

Let’s face it, sometimes life throws more at us than we can handle. That’s why so many people rely on Lakewood Counseling Service in downtown Lee’s Summit. It’s where you’ll find trusted and compassionate professionals ready to partner with you to help you get things back on track.

Take that first step. Call 816.404.6187.

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Good Times

Tack n Toss Fundraiser

The beautiful Ransomed Heart Ranch hosted the event to benefit HorsePower Experiential Learning and Open Range Equine Outreach programs. A tack sale, garage sale, vendor booths, homemade cinnamon rolls and a big live auction provided some old-fashioned fun.

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BasketBALL 2014

The College Basketball Experience provided the venue for this year’s National Parkinson Foundation Heartland’s annual fundraising gala. Participants enjoyed food and drinks, a live and silent auction, casino area, and of course watched the Final Four basketball games.

Jeremy Clay and Megan McCurdy

Kirk Gutekunst, President, National Parkinson Foundation Heartland Board of Directors

Jane Ann Gorsky, Executive Director, Honorary Chair, National Parkinson Foundation Heartland Michael Coleman

Event attendees watched the Elite 8 basketball games.

Board Member, Jeremy Clay, The Gene Hagel family with wife Shauna

Custom Cabinetry

We do our own custom finish work in the shop and bring your cabinetry pre-finished to your home ready to be installed. Installation is completed by our own skilled carpenters.

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Good Times

Fourth Fridays Downtown

Just a sample of what you’ll find at Lee’s Summit’s own Fourth Fridays, celebrating the arts in our community every month.

Freeland Photography hosted the talents of artist Patrick Saunders, floral designer Andrea K. Grist and celloist Melissa Hile.

Photography Kimberly Saunders

Visitors watched artist Patrick Saunders create a painting onsite.

Celloist Melissa Hile

18 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Owner Mike Freeland welcomes Fourth Friday guests to his studio downtown.

Andrea K. Grist provided floral arrangements for décor and for the artist to paint.

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Good Times

Eagle Scout Class Reception Three generations of Eagle Scouts recently gathered to continue a KC Scouting tradition. The 2013 Terry Dunn Class of Eagle Scouts Reception welcomed more than 900 Scouts and families to Municipal Music Hall.

Jeff Wandtke- Scoutmaster of the Year

Austin Wilkinson

Dan Kerling, Kenn Miller, Dawson Garcia, Jim Hayes & Jeff Wandtke

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Service Above Self

Be a...Doer

I’ve been meaning to volunteer and give-back, I just haven’t quite decided what that something is. Sound familiar? Maybe, the time has come for you to become a doer and not just a talker.

Malcolm Bane had the right idea when he said, “If you wait until you can do everything for everybody, instead of something for somebody, you’ll end up doing nothing for nobody.” So, get started today. Join the Lee’s Summit Rotary and make something happen. You’ll find a group of passionate like-minded doers, who refuse to simply stand on the sidelines. They’ve decided to take an active part in their community, in order to bring meaning to the lives of those who need it most.

Yours Truly,

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Around Town

LSHS students receiving awards were (from left) RayLynn Emry-Callahan, Gretchen Shackelford and Tessa Shrout.

friendships give us the strength and encouragement we need to walk through this time in our lives.

First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit MOPS invites you to join them on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month. Come relax, enjoy breakfast, have uninterrupted conversations with other moms and learn helpful household tips while forming lifelong friendships. Oh, and don’t worry about the kids!

The MOPPETS program is staffed by teachers who promote a preschool-like environment to keep the kids busy.

Registration information at Facebook.com/ MOPS24FRIDAY or mopsfbcls@gmail.com.

skin care, custom art, cocktails and more at the second annual event. The unique boutiques and vendors who participated include Honey Hush Boutique, Alter Egos Photography, Phyllis Harris Designs, Greenwood Mercantile, Origami Owl, Arbonne Sheila Patton, My So Called Junkly Life and SHP Trading Post.SHP Trading Post is located at 102 SE Blue Parkway in Lee’s Summit.

New Summer Singers Begins Tiger Broadcast Wins National Awards Three Lee’s Summit High School broadcasting students captured national awards at the Student Television Network Convention, held during March in Orlando, Fla. Winners from Lee’s Summit High are Tessa Shrout, Gretchen Shackelford and RayLynn Emry-Callahan.

The students competed alongside more than 2,000 broadcast students from around the country. LSHS students won in the areas of Best News Production, Best News Bureau and first honorable mention for the Sweet 16 Contest.

During the Sweet 16 Contest, the three LSHS students produced a website, a news package, a news article, a photo gallery, staff profiles, tweets and other communications during 16 hours. The three LSHS students placed alongside other high schools competing in the same contest with more than 14 students on the other high schools’ teams.

Mothers of Preschoolers Group Invites You MOPS, also known as Mothers of Preschoolers, is dedicated to meeting the needs of moms with kiddos from birth to kindergarten. The early years of motherhood are exciting, scary, lonely, frustrating and incredibly rewarding. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that is so much better with the support of other moms. Real faith and real 22 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

The William Baker Choral Foundation announces the creation of the Summer Singers of Lee’s Summit. Registration is now open for the ensemble that will rehearse each Thursday evening in June and July.

Membership is open to all adult and mature youth singers without audition. The Summer Singers of Lee’s Summit follows the tradition of the very successful Summer Singers of Kansas City that has given annual performances of masterworks to capacity audiences each year since 1999.

The group will be co-directed by Lynn Swanson and Dr. William Baker of the Choral Foundation staff. Dr. Steven McDonald of Ottawa University will be rehearsal accompanist.

The chorus will perform Mozart’s Missa Brevis In D, K194, classical works by Brahms, Bach and Haydn, and American folk songs and spirituals. The chorus will be joined in performance by professional soloists and members of the Kansas City Symphony.

Rehearsals are Thursdays, 7-9:30 p.m., beginning June 5, at the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 416 SE Grand in historic downtown Lee’s Summit.

For information and registration materials, call 913.403.9223 or register online at FestivalSingers.org.

Summit Hickory Pit BBQ & SHP Trading Post Girls’ Night Out Lee’s Summit women enjoyed a fun-filled evening of fashion, vintage goods, jewels,

Participating vendors at the Summit Hickory Pit BBQ Girl’s Night Out

Shop Lee’s Summit…

You Could Win $1,000 The Lee’s Summit Chamber is coordinating a local shopping contest to promote and encourage buying in Lee’s Summit. The contest starts May 1 and ends May 31, 2014.

All entries are eligible for a $1,000 prize drawing to be held at the completion of the contest, with an additional drawing each Friday for Shop, Dine, Play baskets.

The Shop, Dine, Play campaign educates and encourages residents to purchase goods and services in Lee’s Summit to improve the quality of the community. When residents Shop, Dine, Play in Lee’s Summit, the additional sales tax dollars goes towards improving the community and supporting its many needs.

Forms will be available online at LSchamber.com as well as the Lee’s Summit Chamber office, 220 SE Main Street. Each form must be accompanied by five original receipts from five separate locations (no minimum purchase). Entries may be mailed or dropped off at the Chamber office. Participants must be Lee’s Summit residents and be 18 or older by April 30, 2014, to enter.

For questions, visit LSchamber.com or call 816.524.2424.

Countdown to Summer Event Summer is almost here! Countdown to Summer, which takes place from May 15June 20, is a fun new event at Paradise Park that helps raise funds for the Lee’s Summit Chamber’s Visitors Council.

For $15, you can pick any three attractions of your choice: Children’s Discovery Play - “Edutainment” Center, Laser Tag Maze, Mini Golf, Go Karts, Rock Wall and/ or Foam Factory. Check out all the fun things you can do at Paradise-Park.com.

Participants can enter to win one of five fabulous prizes during the last five days until summer. Prizes include free passes to Lee’s Summit attractions and hotel night stays.

In order to receive the discount, tickets must be pre-purchased from the Chamber

by May 14 by 5 p.m. The Chamber is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

The Visitors Council works to identify and develop Lee’s Summit’s unique features for the purpose of tourism development and marketing.

Lee’s Summit Medical Center

2014 Community Health Fair Saturday, June 14 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Health screenings and information, lunch with fruits and vegetables, games for kids, car show, music and more!

Preparing for Lee’s Summit’s 150th Birthday Did you know in 2015 the city of Lee’s Summit is turning 150-years-old? In preparation for the big Sesquicentennial Celebration, a group of citizens has formed the Truly 150 committee to plan a year-long celebration.

Consider volunteering to help with the celebration. All kinds of talents and skills are needed to make this a year to remember. From artists, to history buffs, to good ol’ worker bees, the Truly 150 committee would love to engage as many citizens as possible.

Consider one of the multiple sponsorship levels, and leave a legacy long after 2015.

For as little as $50 you can help make a difference and have your family listed as a donor. There are also levels for corporate sponsors looking to make a big splash.

For more information, to volunteer or become a donor for the Sesquicentennial, visit Truly150.com.

Cheers to you Lee’s Summit… you’ve come a long way, with a bright future ahead!

Lee’s Summit Medical Center is located northeast of the MO 50 Highway and Todd George Road intersection.

2100 SE Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 (816) 282-5000 LeessummitMedicalCenter.com

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May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 23

Around Town Big Hat Event to Benefit Blair’s Foster Socks Mark your calendars for Wednesday, June 18 — it’s time to support children in distressed situations at the 3rd annual Big Hat Event hosted by Blair’s Foster Socks.

The Big Hat Event is a fun way for you to contribute to the work this charitable foundation does year-round. Come and enjoy hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails, dessert, shopping, and other events, all while benefiting the charitable foundation that helps support foster children. Bring your favorite ladies and wear your biggest hat!

This year, the Big Hat Event will take place at The Aspen Room at the Stanley Event Center.

SCA Reads Across America Local Musicians Perform at Kauffman The Lee’s Summit Symphony, joined by approximately 50 of the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District’s finest young musicians, will present Symphony Showcase 2014 on May 25 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

In addition to the Lee’s Summit Symphony, the performance will feature orchestra members from Lee’s Summit High School, Lee’s Summit North High School and Lee’s Summit West High School.

The concert provides the opportunity for the students to work with the Lee’s Summit Symphony musicians while also performing on the renowned Kauffman stage.

Tickets are $25 and $50 for this special concert. The $25 tickets may be purchased at Lee’s Summit Hy-Vee stores from March 24 through May 18. The $50 tickets and a limited number of $25 tickets may be purchased through the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts at 816.994.7222 or Tickets.KauffmanCenter.org/ single/EventListing.aspx.

For more information about the concert, tickets and transportation vouchers, visit LSSymphony.org.

Math Competition Winners Students from Our Lady of the Presentation (OLP) school recently participated in the Archbishop O’Hara High School Middle School Math Competition. The competition encompassed three areas: computation, problem solving, and skill proficiency. The OLP team earned first place honors. Individual awards included: 8th Grade: 2nd place - Mikaela Puno, 4th place - Benjamin Coates 7th Grade: 1st place - Caden Gabel 6th Grade: 1st place - Jack Kenney, 2nd place - Jackson Valenti, 4th place - Michael Pace

Summit Christian Academy (SCA) first grade students participated in the Read Across America initiative organized by the National Education Association to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday. As part of the celebration, students welcomed local radio personalities and celebrity readers T.J. Jackson and Wayne Geiger, from Life 88.5fm to read several of Dr. Seuss’s ridiculously rhyming, tongue-twisting, funny-bone tickling, wacky stories.

“Dr. Seuss’s books are excellent for 1st grade students,” says SCA First Grade Teacher Julie Ray. “The students have been reading his books all month, so having celebrity readers read aloud some of their favorites was an added treat.”

Artists and Graphic Designers: Coin Your Idea!

The city of Lee’s Summit is turning 150 in 2015! As part of the Sesquicentennial Celebration four commemorative coins will be created. So sharpen your pencils or warm up your computer mouse, it’s time for a contest.

Four winners will be selected, one for each of the themes for the celebration. Designs for each of the coins are to be based on local events that occurred during the specific time period.

Settlement: 1865-1914 Establishment: 1915-1964 Development: 1965-2014 Empowerment: 2015 and Beyond A submission application and information about events throughout the city’s history can be found at Truly150. com. The winning design in each time period will be cast on a minimum of 1250 coins. The designer of each winning coin will receive $250 and be recognized in information materials. The deadline for submittal is September 1.

Pediatrician to Dance With the Stars Tamara Peterson Bates, a local pediatrician with Summit Pediatrics, has taken on an impressive challenge. She’s agreed to compete in Dancing with

24 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

the Stars! Not the ABC version, but the Kansas City version.

She has been paired with a local professional dance instructor who started providing dance lessons several months ago.

Bates says is a humbling experience but she is having a blast.

On June 7 Bates will put her skills to the test and perform in front of 600 people to compete in the BMA foundation’s annual Dance with the Stars. Through all of the aches and pains, Bates is concentrating on her goal: to raise money on behalf of Charlie’s House.

Charlie’s House is a wonderful 501c(3) whose mission is to prevent injuries to children, in and around the home. As a pediatrician, Bates believes strongly in this organization and educating families about the importance of providing a safe home environment for their children.

Seniors Named to Missouri Scholars 100 Four Lee’s Summit R-7 School District high school seniors were recently selected for the 2014 Missouri Scholars 100, a statewide program that honors 100 of Missouri’s top academic students in the graduating class of 2014.

Area students selected are Kyle Angle and Andy Jarnevic of Lee’s Summit High School and Sam Dowd and Heidi Simpson of Lee’s Summit North High School.

Missouri Scholars 100 is sponsored by the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals. The selection is based primarily on a formula using the student’s grade-point average and ACT or SAT college-preparation score.

The student must also have excellent attendance, be an exemplary school citizen and be involved in school activities.

Creativity Abounds In Lee’s Summit Creativity Abounds!, An Art Exhibit featured Lee’s Summit area artists at The Stanley Historic Event Space. The event included paintings by Rashelle Stutts who The exquisite workmanship of Michelle Diane Brown.

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 25

Around Town uses color as a metaphor for memories and emotions; poignant photography by Erin Miles Brown; exquisite wood furniture by Jay Helland; playful fabric art and quilts by Michelle Diane Brown; and enduring fine wood boxes by David Clark. A portion of all proceeds benefitted the Make a Wish Foundation. The recipient of the wish is Christian Secchio, a 17 year old Lee’s Summit resident who wishes to go to Europe. Live music was provided by Erik Karlsson and Brian Ruskin.

Independence to Host Qualifying Rounds for Figure Skating Championships Independence will host one of the nine regional contests for U.S. Figure Skating in the fall of 2015, in preparation for the 2016 national championships.

“This is a very exciting sporting event for our region,” says Cori Day, director of tourism for Independence. “The popularity of figure skating has surged in recent years, and we are honored to invite skaters, families and fans from a nine-state region to participate and visit.”

Independence will be the host city for the Southwestern Regional Figure Skating Championships from October 3 - 6, 2015.

The local host clubs are the Heartland Figure Skating Club and

the Kansas City Figure Skating Club and all events will be held at the Independence Events Center.

Consider Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student You can make a difference in the life of a student today. By opening your home to a foreign exchange student through Exchange Service International, your family will have the opportunity to personally shape the image of America through the eyes of your student. Host families are asked to provide a caring and loving environment for the students. Host families are also to provide room and board as well as meals and transportation for the students. These high school aged students come to the U.S. fully insured and with their own spending money.

Host families and students will receive support through the organization’s corporate headquarters as well as through local coordinators. These coordinators will work as an advocate for host families and students throughout the student’s stay to ensure a positive and enriching experience. Find out more about becoming a paid host family for a high school exchange student by contacting Kaylee Manns, kaylee.manns@gmail.com

Bennett EyeCare Midwest Comprehensive Eye Care n Routine eye exams for adults and children of all ages n Diagnosis and treatment/monitoring of eye infections, dry eyes, glaucoma, diabetes, and macular degeneration. n The only eye doctor in the Kansas City area certified by the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists, trained in advanced low vision care to help those with vision loss to see better and remain independent. n Complete frame selection and contact lens inventory

n The latest equipment to evaluate cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye changes, macular degeneration, and dry eyes.

26 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Ryan J. Broyles, O.D.

For Better Vision!

Call us at 816-229-3001. www.BennettEyecareMidwest.com www.LowVisionKC.com 3417 NW Mill Drive, Blue Springs, MO 64015

Lee’s Summit Family Care – Where patients come first Patients are the top priority at Lee’s Summit Family Care. We are committed to exceptional care right in your community. That’s why we provide board certified physicians and a compassionate, experienced clinical team.

Lee’s Summit Family Care offers: • Convenient in-office lab with easy access to results • Same- and next day appointment availability • Participation with all major insurance plans • Delivering compassionate care for over 25 years We are centrally located off I-470 and 50 Highway and we’re on the bus route for John Knox Village.

To learn more, or to make an appointment, please call (816) 751-4884 or (913) 541-7478 or visit MyMidwestPhysician.com

162 Games Getting ready for a grueling 162 game season is a long term commitment.

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notice after the account is opened. Fees could reduce earnings on this account. The account requires a $1 minimum opening deposit. Balances up to $1,500 will earn first tier APY. Balances of $1,500.01 or more will earn the credit union’s current applicable base rate for Savings accounts. To receive the first tier APY on the High Interest Savings account you must maintain an active Checking account with one direct deposit of at least $250 per month, and seven or more external transactions per month. If the Checking account relationship is terminated or is no longer active, the rate on the High Interest Savings account will revert to the credit union’s current applicable base rate for its Savings accounts. Limit one High Interest Savings or Delta Savings account per member. The High Interest Savings account is only available to Consumer accounts (business and IRA accounts do not qualify).

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Artist’s Palette

Left: Claudia Garcia Peña; Above: Mexico; Below: Tapiz (Tapestry)

The Art of Claudia Garcia Peña O

riginally from Mexico, Claudia Garcia Peña is a celebrated artist in her country and has shown her work in museums and galleries across Mexico City. She now makes her home in the Kansas City Metro Area and is preparing to do an art show in the near future.

Q: Describe your art.

A: I would call my work Abstract Impressionism. I think my painting is an interpretation of images I find in daily life. I can find these elements in the city or in the country. Even in the cities that seem chaotic, there is life. In small moments, when I feel the sun, the air, the movement of the people, it makes me feel happy. My desire is to capture those moments and put them in a painting so others can see it, experience it, believe it. People are often busy and don’t slow down enough to see; this is my job, to help them see.

Like a hunter, I go out and find those moments to put on canvas. I want to capture the faith and hope that even in difficult times, life can continue, miracles can happen and things can change.

Q: What inspires you?

A: Symbols that speak to me from the history of the Jewish people, like the Tabernacle of Moses or the Burning Bush. Also, symbolic things like trees, fire, sky. Color I find in everything. The work of other painters: Rembrandt inspires me for the era in which he 30 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

lived and his use of light, it seems to emanate from the inside of the people he painted. Cezanne for his construction of geometric forms of the basic elements that he painted like fruit. Claude Monet for the way he captures things women enjoy, and the light and color in his paintings. Picasso, who allowed himself to explore different art styles, inspires me to explore as well with the mind of a child. Picasso shows us all the possibilities. Mondrian for the exactness, the mathematical and geometric perfection.

Q. Where have you studied?

A. The Academy of San Carlos, (premier school of art in Mexico) and the National School of Fine Art in Mexico City. Some of my

Frescura Matinal (Morning Freshness)

Amada Paloma (Beloved Dove)

professors included Luis Nishizawa (painter), Francisco Castro Leñero, Patricia Quijano Ferrer (assessed my mural thesis called Synapsis), Patricia Soriano (drawing), Luis Argudin, Tomas Gomez Robledo, Juan Manuel Salazar (landscapes). Collaborated with Diego Rivera’s grandson to teach special mural classes within the school system to teens in Mexico City for the Diego Rivera Foundation.

Q. Where can people view your work?

A. You can view a 360° virtual show of my work at SureyaGarcia. com/cdi and SureyaGarcia.com/icm. My work has been shown at the Jose Luis Cuevas Museum, Mexico City; The Israeli Cultural Institute, Mexico City; and the Museum of Modern Art, Toluca, Mexico. For more information, I can be reached via email at claudiatorart@yahoo.com.mx.

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Style Wise

Designed for warmth, made with care.

We have it covered.

When it’s homemade, there’s great care given to every stitch. When it’s made for you, the comfort it provides is personal.

But it takes great skill — just the right touch at just the right moment — and a gentle understanding — formed over time and refined by experience — to make it strong and reliable. Everything we do is more than professional. It’s done for family. And that makes living here feel like home, and makes the feeling last. You do the living your way, and we’ll help in every way we can.

Assisted living at SummitView Terrace, the way it ought to be.

SummitView Terrace assisted living

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Just 2 miles from Lee’s Summit

www.americareusa.net • 816.763.6667 32 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Mother’s Day Mementos Affordable customizable jewelry, created by moms, for moms!

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ew moms, more experienced moms and grandmothers have something in common. They love to see the names of their loved ones stylized into classy jewelry.

Founded by two friends and mothers, Nelle & Lizzy was born as co-founder Page Elizabeth’s quest to have the names of her three boys stamped on the outside of a three-band ring, and finding it impossible to secure a jeweler to do so. After creating a proprietary stamping method for their elegant jewelry designs, Nelle & Lizzy quickly became a premier web-based destination for affordable, yet elegant customized jewelry of the highest quality and craftsmanship.

Their signature stamped rings and bangles, customizable necklaces and charm bracelets make perfect gifts for moms of all ages.

It goes without saying that they make beautiful Mother’s Day gifts, but they’re also an ideal way to celebrate baby’s first birthday, holidays or anniversaries. And don’t forget about the proud grandma! All jewelry is proudly made in the USA using locally sourced materials and labor.

Learn more at NelleAndLizzy.com.

My Cancer Center Saved My Life With cancer, receiving the right diagnosis is essential to beginning the right treatment plan. Fortunately, Cathy Young found her cancer center right here, close to home.

At The University of Kansas Cancer Center – Lee’s Summit, patients like Cathy receive the latest cancer care in one convenient location. Here, experts develop customized treatment plans for each individual patient, as unique to them as their own fingerprint. This personalized approach leads to better outcomes. In fact, National Cancer Institutedesignated Cancer Centers show 25% better patient outcomes than non-designated cancer centers.

Why would you go anywhere else?

Just ask Cathy.

The University of Kansas Cancer Center − Lee’s Summit Just off Lakewood and I-470

To make an appointment, schedule a second opinion or speak with a nurse, call 913-588-1227. kucancercenter.org/LeesSummit

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Cathy Young, Lee’s Summit Chamber director of member services, grandmother, boating enthusiast and cancer survivor – found her #HopeInLS.

Star Student

Out of Africa A medical mission of mercy

Article Elizabeth Rosenberger | Photography Provided

F

rom a young age, Lois Miller was a determined, adventurous and a fearless child. Always picking up insects and snakes in the backyard, Lois turned her childhood home into a rescue shelter when she gathered a litter of orphaned wild bunnies, carried them home and nursed them with an eyedropper laden with warm milk. Weeks later, Lois released her furry family back into the wild.

When she traveled to Guatemala at the age of 10 with her family for a medical mission trip, large insects in her living quarters and leaches that attached themselves to her when swimming in the rivers didn’t bother her. She took it all in stride.

Lois graduated from Lee’s Summit High School in 2012 and knew the field of nursing was her call. The mission trips she took with her family while growing up sparked a passion to reach out across the globe. Now a sophomore at Harding University in Searcy, Ark., where she is working 34 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

towards a Bachelor of Science in nursing, Lois had the opportunity to study abroad in Zambia, Africa, through a program called Harding in Zambia (HIZ). When she made the trip in the fall of 2013, her three-month stay was designed to enhance her nurses’ training and earn 16 credit hours toward a minor in health care missions.

“When I discovered the HIZ program, it provided everything I was hoping to experience and more,” says Lois. “I not only spent three days a week working in a Zambian clinic, I was also taking classes taught by Zambian professors. The classes helped provide me with skills needed for third world nursing. I learned about the cycle of poverty and the signs and symptoms of developing world diseases and of the many forms of malnutrition. I also took a language class and an African culture class.”

But Lois garnered more from her three-month stay in Africa than

what can be seen on a transcript. She gained a different perspective that will set her course for life.

The first part of her trip was at the Namwianga Mission in Kolomo, Zambia. Staying in dorms, she was able to build friendships with many of the Zambian college students. She worked in the clinic and saw cases of malnutrition, small pox, malaria, AIDS and skin diseases caused by a lack of hygiene and adequate nutrition. But for Lois, one of her favorite aspects of the mission was nurturing babies.

“So many of my experiences were beyond words,” says Lois.

“Being a mom for three months to a nine-month old orphan named Vera was something I will never forget. Her adorable smile was contagious, and she loved to touch my face when I held her.”

The orphanages, also called ‘havens,’ are separate houses built to provide a home for babies who have lost their parents to HIV/ AIDs and other diseases. Students are assigned an orphan to care for during their stay. Each day Vera was tied to Lois’ back with long scarves called chitangis. Lois cleaned bottles, washed diapers and swept floors all the while carrying Vera on her back.

“We spoke to the babies in their own language with the few words we had learned,” she says.

On weekends, Lois and her group traveled to villages for outreach where they pitched tents, ate the food provided from the villagers and learned to communicate in the native language. On Sundays they attended the village church where services lasted all day. Lois learned how to make Sheema (traditional Zambian food) and dance Zambian style.

“They also taught us how to kill chickens,” Lois adds. “I’m really good at it too!”

When her time in Namwianga was over, her group flew to Mtwara, Tanzania, with the purpose of meeting other young missionaries while learning what life is like overseas. From there they went to the island of Zanzibar and then onto Rwanda where she continued >

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(continued)

Upon her arrival home, Lois, with the help of her older sisters Sarah Grace and Ruth Ann, wrote and produced a CD of African tunes aptly titled AdventureOn. She sells the CD for $5. All proceeds go towards the children’s orphanage in Zambia. For details, email adventureon2014@yahoo.com.

When it comes to teens and alcohol, consistency is the golden rule.

Jill, Anheuser-Busch employee, and daughter Tori

Setting rules—and sticking to them— can help prevent underage drinking.

Our high-schoolers have a lot of milestones ahead of them: prom, graduation and college. At times, it may be tempting to relax the rules and let them celebrate with alcohol. But according to experts, that’s a big mistake. We’ve spent a lot of time teaching them to respect the rules, and if we start to make exceptions, we may send the signal that underage drinking is a “grey area.” More than ever, this is the time to maintain consistency; special events don’t call for special rules. To learn more, join us on Facebook and download our free Parent Guide.

facebook.com/ABFamilyTalk © 2012 Anheuser-Busch, St. Louis, MO

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 37

Trim: 4.667x9.875 Bleed: None Live: 4.417x9.625

learned about the horrific genocide that took place in 1994.

Lois’ parents, Mark and Jeanette Miller, who are both in the healthcare industry, are not surprised about their daughter’s calling or passion for missions. Jeanette says the confidence, fearlessness and comfort level with different cultures Lois exhibited growing up indicated healthcare would be a good fit for her.

“We reared our girls with the intention that their lives were about something so much bigger than themselves,” says Jeanette. “Instilling in them a strong faith in God, our hope has always been that this faith would keep them from conforming to peer pressure and transform them into someone who could carry the heart of God to whomever and wherever He would lead them. Lois came back from Africa with a resolve and more solidified vision for her life.”

While in Africa, Lois was able to ride on elephants, swim above Victoria Falls (even with crocodiles), bungee jump, climb a volcano and see things most people only read about in books. But her most incredible experience was the people.

“The relationship the people have with God left me in awe,” she says. “Even though they were a different culture and faced different trials from mine, the same God that was working in their hearts also works in mine and that brought us together in a truly incredible way.”

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Star Student

Your Neighbor

Boys of Summer Lee’s Summit man turns passion for baseball into opportunity for other adults to chase their diamond dreams

Article Christopher Clark | Photography Provided

T

here’s a great baseball story about Jonathan Krysa.

A right-hander drafted by the Houston Astros in 2000, Krysa spent two years in the club’s minor league system and six more in the independent leagues. His dreams of pitching in the big leagues all but over and his attention turned to a full-time job with telecom giant Sprint, Krysa made a deal with his team, The Kansas City T-Bones of the American Association. Because work often conflicted with the team’s schedule, the T-Bones allowed Krysa to fly himself to road games — on his own dime — to make his starts.

That year, 2006, saw Krysa go 13-5 — good enough to be named the association’s Northern League Pitcher of the Year.

His teammates playfully called him “Corporate,” a nod to Krysa’s distinction of being the only

38 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

player on the team who had another job.

That dedication to the sport now sees the 35-year-old Krysa — a lifelong Lee’s Summit resident who played baseball at Lee’s Summit High School — helping others chase their own diamond dreams. When he isn’t working as a program analyst for the United States Marshals Service, Krysa is busy as a night and weekend baseball instructor at Players Paradise and president of the Kansas City Amateur Baseball Association, which runs adult leagues in the city and allows everyone from just-out-of-highschoolers to 40-something weekend warriors play real, fastpitch baseball.

“The KCABA and other adult baseball leagues may look intimidating to the average player but actually the average player is our biggest advocate and sup-

porter,” says Krysa. “It gives opportunities to people who never got their shot or never fulfilled their desire to play either due to injury, family, or money issues and now they can. Sure there may be someone more talented or have more experience, but that is everywhere in life. As long as a player has an understanding of the game, has played at some organized level of baseball in their life and is in fair physical condition, they can play baseball in the KCABA.” The organizations’ leagues, which span all age brackets, play on Sundays in Lee’s Summit, but also occasionally in other suburbs including Liberty, Blue Springs and Independence. Krysa has done a masterful job of pitching the adult leagues as an approachable weekend pursuit yet one that remains highly competitive.

“The KCABA baseball league is no different than signing up for a bowling, golf, or softball league. If a person pays their entry fees, they get to play,” Krysa says. “People should and do know their strengths and their loves in life. If a player has the aptitude and the ability to play baseball and want to have fun again, then this KCABA league is something to try.

The thing that stops most people is fear and, in this case, old-man fear where a baseball player will not play for the fear of looking old. There is another saying that is very poignant, ‘Softball for soft players, hardball for hard men.’”

Make no mistake. This is real, 9-inning, fast-pitch, wood-bat baseball.

The average pitcher in the league throws a fastball anywhere between 55 mph to 70 mph, Krysa says. Some can hit the upper 70s and the 80s. By comparison, a typical varsity high school pitcher routinely hits the 70s to low 80s.

But none of that should scare away would-be league players, Krysa says.

The average age of current players in the league is 25 to 30, with players as young as 18 and as old as 63.

“There are guys who are just out of high school, JUCO, or college and are in

their early 20s to guys that are middle age in their 30’s with young families to guys who are in their 40s that want the chance to play again,” Krysa says.

“Some people have better talents than others or have a specific talent like pitching, or playing middle infield or being a designated hitter. So you don’t have to be a super stud at all positions or crush the baseball in order to play in the league.

That’s why it’s a team sport and there are nine positions on the field. Everyone can contribute in their own way and with their strengths.”

WANNA PLAY? Signing up for KCABA baseball is easy.

Entry fees are $250 per player, with the money used to purchase baseballs, insurance and field time.

To sign up, players can email Jonathan Krysa at KCABApresident@gmail.com.

Players are asked to provide the following information: -Name -Email and contact number -Positions played -Highest level of baseball experience

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 39

Real Wives

introducing

JAMIE DAVIS real wives of LEE’S SUMMIT LSL: Are you a native Kansas Citian or a transplant to the area?

JD: I’m KC born and raised.

LSL: What’s on the floor of your car right now?

JD: A birth ball, 3 pairs flip flops, box of essential oils

LSL: Who/what lives in your house?

JD: Me, my husband Jay, our daughter Amanda, cat Peaches, and our dog Eli. We have two older daughters: Kate who is graduating this month from UCM, and Brittany who is a teacher at Summit Christian Academy.

LSL: Do you work outside the home?

JD: I’m the finance assistant at The Global Orphan Project, a bookkeeper at Lakeland Community Church, and a birth doula at A Cherished Birth.

extremes of emotion all crashing together at one point--I can’t help but be drawn to that and be a part of it.

LSL: Where was your best vacation ever?

JD: Destin, Florida

LSL: What is your guiltiest food pleasure?

JD: Dark Chocolate Mocha

LSL: What is your favorite date night restaurant?

JD: Garrozzo’s

LSL: How would your best friend describe you?

JD: CRAZY….genuine…compassionate…hard to crack

LSL: What is the best thing about living in Lee’s Summit?

JD: My church family

LSL: Which organization(s) gets most of your volunteer time?

JD: Lakeland Community Church and The Global Orphan Project (GO). I went to Haiti right after the earthquake and was so moved by what I saw I had to get involved. Being involved with orphans there through GO not only gives me a different perspective of who I am, it teaches me more about who God is and the story he is writing through the entire world, not just my little niche of Lee’s Summit. There is great pain and suffering but also great joy and love, the mix of two

LSL: What do your record on the DVR? JD: The Voice, Grey’s Anatomy and Modern Family LSL: What is your favorite cocktail?

JD: Malbec LSL: Where do you wish your husband would buy your next gift?

JD: The GO Exchange (shameless plug!) a way of supporting orphans through commerce.

LSL: What is your favorite sports team?

JD: GO CHIEFS!

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Healthy Lifestyle

Keep Kids in the Game for Life Through the STOP Sports Injuries Campaign Area Business Leaders Join Forces to Help Young Athletes Play Safe and Stay Healthy

L

eaders at the Dynamic Athletics Research Institute (DARI) Clinic are coming together with the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, National Athletic Trainers’ Association, National Strength and Conditioning Association and Safe Kids USA to promote the STOP Sports Injuries campaign.

The campaign educates athletes, parents, athletic trainers, coaches and healthcare providers about the rapid increase in youth sports injuries, the necessary steps to help reverse the trend and the need to keep young athletes healthy. The STOP Sports Injuries campaign highlights include teaching proper prevention techniques, discussing the need for open communication between everyone involved in young athletes’ lives, and encouraging those affected to sign The Pledge to be an advocate for sports safety. The campaign website and pledge are available at STOPSportsInjuries.org.

Sports injuries among young athletes are on the rise. According to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high school athletes, alone, account for an estimated two million injuries, 500,000 doctor visits and 30,000 hospitalizations every year.

Headquartered in Lenexa, Dynamic Athletics Research Institute, DARI, is the most advanced database management company for human movement in the world and the only company capable of delivering precise human kinetics and kinematics without force plates. Under the direction of Dr. Tom Eberline, the DARI:Clinic is the premier resource for objective movement assessments in the greater Kansas City area.

“The capability now exists to practically apply comprehensive human data into the decision making process when it comes to high performance, injury prevention, risk management and rehabilitation,” says Eberline. “Whether it’s an athletic analysis in our DARI:Motion Lab or on-field testing with the DARI:Impulse, the

resulting data provides an unparalleled communication tool between athletic leadership, sports medicine, and athletes.”

The high rate of youth sports injuries is fueled by an increase in overuse and trauma injuries and a lack of attention paid to proper injury prevention. According to the CDC, more than half of all sports injuries in children are preventable.

“Regardless of whether the athlete is a professional, an amateur, an Olympian or a young recreational athlete, the number of sports injuries is increasing – but the escalation of injuries in kids is the most alarming,” says Dr. James Andrews, former president of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) and STOP Sports Injuries Co-Campaign Chair. “Armed with the correct information and tools, today’s young athletes can remain healthy, play safe, and stay in the game for life.”

Supporting the STOP Sports Injuries campaign are the country’s leading sports medicine organizations along with professional athletes and business leaders who have signed on as members of the campaign’s Council of Champions. This Council will help raise additional awareness about this growing epidemic of youth sports injuries. Some of the founding members of the Council include former Olympic champions Christie Rampone, Eric Heiden and Bonnie Blair, professional golfer Jack Nicklaus, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr, MLB baseball player John Smoltz, NFL Hall of Fame defensive end, Howie Long, and Heisman Trophy winner and St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford.

“Using objective data, clinicians, trainers, and coaches are now able to proactively approach injury prevention, personalize and track rehabilitation and concussion management protocols, and maximize training results,” says Eberline. “We are excited to collaborate with other local organizations to bring awareness to all that can be done to prevent overuse and traumatic injuries and keep kids active and in the game.”

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 41

Page Turners

A Nice Little Place on the North Side: Wrigley Field at One Hundred

By George Will Crown Archetype Press $25.00 224 pages Reviewed by Julie Hubble

A

s the grass greens and days get longer, it is time to go to the ball fields. And who better to sit with in the bleachers than the rabid fan, full of facts and anecdotes and opinions on the state of the game? George Will, arguably the most famous fan of the Chicago Cubs, takes off his political pundit hat and waxes nostalgic on the 100th birthday of Wrigley Field. This is not field reporting, but an emotional and personal reflection on the history of a team, a place, of baseball. As there are few triumphs to record, Will meanders through the Lincoln Park neighborhood and reveals the oddities of personalities that stop through Chicago and leave stories that create legend.

Readers will learn about America’s first female member of a President’s cabinet, about the baseball-related shooting that inspired Bernard Malamud’s The Natural, and will consider the relationship between beer and attendance at baseball games. The greatness of Ernie Banks, “Mr. Cub,” will be on display for all to see. But Will also provides commentary on the architecture of the building itself, and provides fodder for why the structure has contributed to the fortunes of the team. He suggests, despite his love for the Chicago Cubs, that historic decisions by the owners, including chewing-gum magnate P.K. Wrigley, made the stadium too successful. A less popular structure would have forced the Cubs to purchase a winning team.

But in the era of Jumbotrons and product placement and concession stand apps, Wrigley Field is that bright and shining Valhalla, purposely slow to install night lights and video screens at the urinals. She is beloved, wise and full of characters that tell America’s 42 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

story of competition and loyalty, success and defeat, yesterday and today. Carl Sandburg describes Chicago as a city “with lifted head singing so proud to be alive and coarse and strong and cunning,” aware of those sneering at her. He must have been a Cubs fan.

The writing is graceful and funny, the information is stunning, and the critique is sharp – the perfect way to spend an afternoon for any baseball fan.

Other New Baseball Titles To Consider: New Kid by Tim Green (Harper/Collins) The Glory of Their Times: The Story of the Early Days of Baseball Told by the Men Who Played It

by Lawrence Ritter (Harper Perennial) Where Nobody Knows Your Name: Life in the Minor Leagues of Baseball by John Feinstein (Doubleday) 1954: The Year Willie Mays and the First Generation of Black Superstars Changed Major League Baseball

by Bill Madden (Da Capo) Pete Rose: An American Dilemma by Kostya Kennedy (Sports Illustrated)

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May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 43

Take Me — and My Family — Out to the

Ballgame

Article Trisha Drape | Photography Taylor Pemberton and KC Royals

I

f you dislike those sappy baseball movies, ala Fields of Dreams, The Natural, The Sandlot, et al, and you find it completely self-indulgent when people write about their children, stop reading now. I just can’t help myself this one time. Oh, and do you despise baseball fanatics who wait all year to hear those six little words: “Pitchers and catcher report for training”? If so, again, this article may not be for you.

If, however, you are a soon-to-be empty-nester who can’t seem to gather your young adult children for more than three straight hours even during the holidays, and you’re looking for a possible trick up your sleeve for more family time, I can tell you what works for me. My artifice? Baseball. And this year, knowing the days of family vacations may be nearing an end, my husband and I enticed them with a trip we knew they wouldn’t refuse: Spring training in Surprise, Arizona.

Our son, now in his second year of college, traded in baseball tournaments and soccer practices for guitars and girls around the time he turned 15. But if I call him up to invite him to go to a Kansas City Royals game, he suddenly has time to see me and make the 15-minute drive from his college to the stadium. Interestingly enough, the drive to Lee’s Summit isn’t much farther, but without the incentive of a ballgame, it might as well be 1,000 miles.

My youngest daughter, who leaves for college in August, only peeks up from her Netflix binges of “House of Cards” and “Or-

44 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

ange is the New Black” to ask if I’ve been to the ATM. She recently changed her plans to go to college out of state, telling us she “really likes Kansas City; it has everything I need.” Is this code for “I don’t want to be far from a town that has professional baseball, football, soccer, music, theatre, art, etc.?”

My oldest daughter will drive home from college nearly every weekend the Royals are in town, but once the baseball season

is over, the price of gas suddenly seems to have risen too high for her to make the 3-hour trip home. She is our family’s biggest baseball fan. Every Christmas since she was very young, she has asked for season tickets to the Royals, and every birthday she has asked us to take her to spring training — a wish we had not granted until this year.

Baseball isn’t everyone’s passion, but for us there is something about the game that brings us together. Perhaps it’s the pace and the fact we can carry on conversations in between the moments of action. Maybe it’s the sights and sounds and smells making us feel nostalgic for all of those times when we spent many afternoons outside together. Maybe it’s just a love of the game itself.

Even if baseball isn’t your thing, spending a day at The K with your family might surprise you as a great way to get together. And for next year, I highly recommend considering a few days away in Surprise, Arizona. If the winter of 2015 is anything like this past winter, you’ll be happy to get away to Arizona where the weather is ideal in February and

March. With 15 MLB teams in the Cactus League and 10 stadiums in the greater Phoenix area, there are plenty of ball games to catch, but there also is so much more to explore. We drove to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Scottsdale and Tempe in between games.

We also met up with friends from other states and unexpectedly ran into several people from our community — baseball seems to bring lots of people together.

If baseball is your thing, there is no better place than spring training to get up close and personal with the players, who are very accessible during these games and practices. My oldest daughter insisted on getting up early every morning to watch batting practice, where she was able to speak with several players.

Over the years, we’ve taken family vacations to many cities (most of them with major league baseball stadiums), and we have always tried to go some place different every year.

However, I already am planning for our trip back to spring training — it’s definitely a trip worth repeating.

I am so thankful to baseball for bringing my family together.

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 45

Keepers of the Sandlot Play Ball!

Article Susan Motley | Photography Provided

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pring is here. The days are getting longer and the flowers are blooming. But, for many, nothing says spring like the start of baseball season.

That is definitely true for former professional baseball player Bill Severns. Baseball has always been an important part of his life. He started playing little league at an early age and never looked back. As a starter for the University of Oklahoma, Severns had the rare privilege of playing in the College World Series four years in a row. Drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers, he played in their farm system for six years before retiring to raise his family.

Severns lives in Prairie Village with his wife of 36 years, Suzanne.

They have four children and eight grandchildren.

“For as long as I can remember, all I ever wanted to do was play baseball,” Severns says. “So, when my boys came along, as soon as they wanted to throw or catch, I was ready to play.”

Severns spent 23 years coaching, starting with his son’s little league teams and coaching every level from 5 years old to high school.

Severns say kids start out playing baseball because they want to be with their friends and have fun. Parents like their kids to play

46 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

because it teaches them how to compete, to be a good teammate, to win and lose, to fail and get back up again. It develops character.

But, as Severns continued to coach, he started seeing things that worried him. “I had concerns about the pressures, intensity, and number of games, the extreme yelling and that kind of thing,” he explains. “Baseball is supposed to be fun and you can’t play well when everyone is stressed out.”

“My friend Gary LaRocque from the St. Louis Cardinals always says, ‘Tell your parents we don’t have time to scout little league!’”

Severns says he often wished parents could just relax and enjoy the game.

So, as his coaching days were coming to a close, Severns had an epiphany about how to stay involved with baseball. He was at a game, standing in the third base coach’s box, when the opposing coach “just lost it” and blew up at a kid who had made an error. The boy was upset which caused his next play to be even worse. A violent confrontation erupted. The coach pulled him from the game.

“I kept looking for his dad,” Severns says, “but, you guessed it, the coach was his dad.”

Severns says he decided that night to write a book.

He was determined to use his experiences, his resources and his connections in the baseball world to help parents and coaches relax.

He wants them to protect the innocence and joy of the game for their children. He calls it the “sandlot” experience where everyone is welcome and has fun, there is no pressure to perform, and the games go on until sundown.

In 2005, Severns published Keepers of the Sandlot--Coaching, Parenting and Playing For Keeps. Several years later, he wrote Sandlot Strategy, A Parent’s Manual For Coaching Kids.

Both books have been enthusiastically received. They are filled with stories from Severn’s playing and coaching years as well as pearls of wisdom from some of the biggest names in baseball.

They offer great insight and guidance to help parents and coaches enjoy their children during this short season of their lives.

One of Severns’ favorite quotes from the first book comes from former Royal’s allstar Kevin Seitzer. “Don’t ever be the coach that makes a kid give up the game.”

“I just want to help everyone understand how precious this time is,” Severns says. “Pretty soon the game is over and your kids are gone.”

Although he has a day job, at the civil engineering firm of Shafer, Kline, & Warren in Lenexa, Severns now spends a good deal of this time speaking to groups about baseball, and talking with and encouraging coaches and parents who call him.

“These books have been a gift. They have opened doors and given me the opportunity to share what I’ve learned with parents and coaches. And they have kept me involved in this game I love so much. Every year when the season ends, I sit around and wait for Opening Day!” For more information or to contact Bill Severns, go to his website KeepersOfTheSandlot.com, or call him at 913.544.5878.

Come celebrate with us!

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Come be our guest at our open house Wednesday, May 7, 2014 from 4:30pm to 7:00pm at 233 SE Main Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 (located on 2nd floor) Each Home Instead Senior Care® franchise office is independently owned and operated. © 2014 Home Instead, Inc.

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 47

Stairs in Onondaga Cave allow visitors to view several levels of the cave.

Spelunking at its Best A world of wonder in nature’s final frontier.

Article Elizabeth Rosenberger | Photography Department of Natural Resources & Bridal Cave

I

t’s more fun than you can imagine. All that’s needed is a good pair of walking shoes, comfy jacket and a tank of gas – but don’t forget the kids – they’ll want to spelunk right along with you. At this point some of you may be wondering what in the world is spelunking? It’s the recreational sport of cave exploring so bring the camera and capture the memories of your family’s adventure of scrambling around in a cave.

Known for its beauty in the subterranean universe, Missouri spelunking will introduce you to cascading waterfalls, vast chambers, mazelike passages, tight crawl spaces, bizarre creatures (yes, bats are included), and the most beautiful and breathtaking sculp-

48 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

tures carved by nature.

There are three simple rules to spelunking: Take nothing but pictures – leave everything the way you found it so others can appreciate the cave the same way you did. Leave nothing but footprints – minimize your impact to the cave; do not leave crumbs and trash in the cave. Kill nothing but time – you are the visitor to the cave so leave the natural inhabitants alone.

We’ve highlighted four of the most popular caves in Missouri.

It’s always a good idea to check the websites before you head out the door in order to ensure operational times and fees, but we encourage you to grab the family and get your spelunk on.

boat dock, observation tower, snack center, and Thunder Mountain Mining Company; a unique rock and mineral shop specializing in rocks, minerals, gemstones and educational materials for rock hounds of all ages. Gemstone mining is also available where you pan for semi-precious minerals and keep the treasurers you find. Visit BridalCave.com or call 573.346.2676 for hours of operation and rates.

MERAMEC CAVE

Touted as the largest commercial cave in the state, Meramec is located at 1135 Route W off of I-44 in Stanton. Park rangers guide tourists through a maze of mineral formations bursting with color that have been formed over centuries. This specific cave tour offers an interesting adventure for park visitors from the low, narrow streamside passages to the huge rooms filled with calcite deposits. With seven levels to tour and explore, the tour takes an hour and 20 minutes covering more than a mile, but provides lighted and concreted walkways. Upon entering, tourists will be captured by the beauty of the enormous “ballroom” that has been tiled and was once used for “cave parties” that consisted of concerts and dancing. During the Civil War, this cave was mined for saltpeter and gunpowder manufactured by the Union Army. The tour also explains why they believe Jesse James used the caverns for a hideout; plenty of rich history for the spelunker to absorb.

The cave has been a tourist attraction since 1933, is open year round and accessible for those with disabilities. For the more adventuresome, zip-lining is available at the park site along with a gift shop, restaurant and river boat rides. Visit MeramecCaverns. com or call 573.468.2283 for hours of operation and rates.

CATHEDRAL CAVE

Bridal Cave is home to hundreds of weddings yearly.

Flowstone, a natural bridge, wind-bent dripping stalactites and enormous amounts of cave coral are considered this caves outstanding features. With an 80-foot ceiling and a natural bridge, spelunkers will enjoy this Missouri cave that is located in Leas-

BRIDAL CAVE

Located at 526 Bridal Cave Rd in Camdenton, the Osage Native American Indians discovered this hidden treasure beneath Thunder Mountain centuries ago. Folklore says there was a legendary Native American Indian wedding ceremony held in the cave in the early 1800s, hence the name. Today, more than 2,500 couples from around the world have exchanged vows in the stalactite adorned Bridal Chapel. Guided tours last for one hour and weave tourists through numerous rooms of mineral deposits, giant columns and a view of the largest onyx formations than any other cave in the area. Bridal cave is also rated as one of the most scenic caves in America by TripAdvisor.com. Although the cave is open year-round for touring, it’s best to check the website for operating hours since they differ depending on the season. There are park facilities available that include the Ozarks’ largest lakeside gift shop, Lakeside viewing decks, nature trails, picnic areas, public

Visitors enjoy Bridal Cave, which is open year round.

Spelunking at its Best

(continued)

burg at 7556 Route H. The tour runs 90 minutes covering 1.66 miles round trip with a cave temp of 57 degrees. This is considered a strenuous cave tour with two distinct sections defining the cave but the fossilized algal beds and stromatolites make it worth the exercise. It became commercialized in 1973 when concrete walkways, handrails and lighted were fixtures installed. Keep the camera ready to capture the cave life in abundance; camel crickets, pickerel frogs, bats and salamanders are sighted regularly. An extra bonus on this tour is the viewing of the Cathedral Cave, Missouri Seismic Station. Since Cathedral and Onondaga Cave is located close to each other, this would make a wonderful weekend jaunt for the family. Visit MissouriCaves.com or call 573.245.6576 for hours of operation, rates and lodging.

ONONDAGA CAVE

Missouri State Parks System rates this cave as one of America’s most spectacular caves due to the abundance and quality of its speleothems (deposits). Stalactites, stalagmites, rimstone dams, draperies, soda straws and cave coral decorate this cave in subterranean beauty like none other. Designated as a National Natural Landmark, many of the deposits are still growing and a stream meanders through the cave in an entrenched canyon. The park’s visitor center contains displays that showcase Missouri as the Cave State and explain the significance of Onondaga. Located at 7556 Route H in Leasburg, the tour covers 1.5 miles of

Cathedral Cave’s impressive formations draw visitors from all over the Midwest.

passages lasting one hour and 15 minutes. During certain times of the year they offer amateur photo tours which allow extended time for shutter bugs to take pictures of the natural decorations of the cave. Most popular are the Twins, the Rock of Ages and King’s Canopy. Visit MissouriCaves.com or call 573.245.6576 for hours of operation, rates and lodging.

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Field Trip

Downtown Days…

Kicks Off the Summer in Lee’s Summit Article Judy Harper Goppert | Photography Provided

I

t’s that time of year again—time for fun, entertainment and music to take over downtown Lee’s Summit. Downtown Days...

Streets Alive! is a free three-day, family-friendly festival featuring live music, vendor booths, a car show, fashion show, new carnival, contests, plenty of food and much more. The event takes place the weekend of June 6-8.

“Each year, the Downtown Days Committee works hard to bring a new component to the festival,” says Stacy Needels, events and promotions director for Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street. “This year, we are excited about the addition of the live tiger exhibit. We think this will be a unique family-friendly experience.”

The live White Tiger Discovery Exhibit will be located on Douglas Street, north of Third Street, during the festival. For a small fee, guests can view the white tigers.

“We also are excited to bring in a new carnival company this year that will offer more rides and games for guests of all ages,” says Needels.

52 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

“We were in awe of the number of people who came out for all three days of our Downtown Days festival last year,” says Trisha Drape, executive director for Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street. “Estimates suggest it was the single largest event to ever take place in Lee’s Summit. “There were about 100,000 people from our community and beyond enjoying all of the many activities that take place during our festival.”

This the largest fundraiser for Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization and historic preservation of Downtown Lee’s Summit. Funds raised help continue the revitalization efforts of DLSMS throughout the year.

“Anyone who is interested in volunteering for Downtown Days or any of our events can contact our office anytime,” says Needels.

Downtown Days features two stages of live entertainment. The Depot Stage, located on SE Main Street, includes performances by local dance studios, as well as live music and performances by Lee’s Summit’s Got Talent participants. The Summertime Stage, located on SW Main Street, will include live music, eating contests, demonstrations by Sit Means Sit Dog Training and more.

Nearly 200 booths offer a variety of handcrafted and commercial items. Food and drink vendors provide funnel cakes, corn dogs, Greek food, BBQ, Texas twister fries, gyros, shaved ice, fresh-squeezed lemonade and more. Three beer stands located throughout the festival will help quench the adult’s summer-time thirst. Many downtown businesses also will extend their hours throughout the weekend.

Back for its second year, Fashion in the Streets begins at 7 p.m.

June 7, on Third Street west of the railroad tracks. A car show will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 8, on SW Main Street.

Visitors can get autographs from local sports celebrities throughout the weekend at the 810 Sports Zone, and local mascots will make appearances. The Downtown Lee’s Summit Rotary Club is bringing back its popular Smokin’ on the Summit BBQ contest on June 6 and 7 on the festival grounds.

Details Downtown Days

Friday, June 6 from noon to 10 p.m.

Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday, June 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

LeesSummitDowntownDays.com

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 53

Road Trip

Chateau on the Lake Spectacular Views Make This Gem of Table Rock a Priority Destination Article Lisa Harrison | Photography Provided

S

pring break was looming and we still didn’t have plans for the long weekend get-away we’d promised our two teens. It was time for this busy mom to start fretting. But then I learned about a resort at Table Rock Lake in Branson called Chateau on the Lake and suddenly it looked like our regional destination mini-vacation would happen after all.

We stopped at Lamberts (“Home of the throwed rolls”) on our way to the lake. I’d heard of it but had never been, so it warrants a quick mention here. Even at 2 p.m. on a Friday afternoon we had to wait 45 minutes for a table so if this is on your to-do list, know that it’s not a quick in and out dining destination.

Having never vacationed in Branson, I didn’t know what to expect, but any preconceived notions we had about lodge themed motels and country music inspired inns were dashed when we rounded the bend in the highway and saw the stunning 10-story resort looming on the horizon. “We’re staying THERE?” they asked too loudly with earbuds still firmly in place. All I could do was smile. And then we saw the lake, and I was instantly assured we’d have a wonderful three days.

I grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan. We lived on one side of the Great Lake and vacationed on the other. A family joke is that lake water runs through our veins. And as much as I’ve tried to embrace the many (many) man-made lakes of Missouri, I was worried that Table Rock would be another murky little docklined lake. I’m thrilled to admit I was impressed by its grandeur.

54 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

My husband and sons bonded over an afternoon of fly fishing with an outstanding guide at nearby Lake Taneycomo. They each caught (and released) close to a dozen fish so the afternoon was officially a success. While they perfected their casting skills and harassment of the local fish, I practiced deep relaxation in the Spa Chateau. Opened just seven years ago, the 14,000-square-foot spa offers everything from a hot tub, massage and facials, to mani-

cures, pedicures and hair styling. Make sure you plan to indulge a bit during your stay.

Our special dinner at the Chateau Grille was one my boys

are still talking about. We splurged on a fruits of the sea appetizer ($17) that offered impressive shrimp and crab legs alongside a chunky scoop of lobster salad. Our steaks, salads and short ribs were outstanding and perfectly prepared. And the Grand Marnier soufflé ($12) was absolutely divine. It’s no wonder that visitors to the lake enjoy traveling by boat to this restaurant all summer long.

My boys loved stopping in the Sweet Shoppe and we loved giving them the freedom to wake up when they were ready and go downstairs to get breakfast at their leisure while we enjoyed a morning walk along the lake. They could easily pick up muffins, fruit or cereal for breakfast, a soda or candy bar in the afternoon, or a dessert to share after dinner and simply charge the cost to our room.

Our room was lovely and had a spectacular view of the lake. Two sink vanities, one in the bathroom and one in the main room, meant that there was a little less chaos in our weekend of sharing a room. The balcony allowed us to sit outside and enjoy the view with coffee in hand.

Speaking of coffee, shall we take a moment to collectively thank

the hotelier who started putting little coffee machines in hotel rooms back in the 1990s?

The 10-story atrium is breathtaking. The lobby is built around a three- story tall tree as well as gentle waterfalls and flowing water features that are home to lovely koi fish. It’s no wonder at all that this is a popular convention and wedding destination.

Other amenities include a marina, kids club, pools, tennis courts and a movie theater. The marina offers ski boats, pontoons, wave runners, canoes, kayaks and paddle boats available for rent. Fishing gear, tubes and skis are available as well, allowing guests to pack a little lighter. The Crawdaddies Kids Club offers indoor and outdoor activities ideal for elementary-aged children while the movie theater shows G-rated films several times a day. Indoor and outdoor pools are open 24 hours a day.

For those of you who choose to visit during the summer or fall, Moonshine Beach is just a ten-minute walk or a two-minute drive from the resort. For a small fee, beach goers have access to a snack stand, restroom facilities and a safe, continued > sandy beach.

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May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 55

Road Trip

(continued)

The Branson strip offered more than we could absorb in our three day stay. Highlights included riding go carts, zip-lining, the outlet mall and a celebrity car museum. But remember, my travel companions were 15- and 17-year-old boys. While I could have spent half the day at the outlet mall they were content to leave after visiting a half dozen stores.

If a visit to Branson is on your to-do list, or if you’re in charge of organizing the next family reunion or company convention, start your planning with Chateau on the Lake and you won’t be disappointed.

Details Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa

ChateauOnTheLake.com 417.334.1161 Fishing Guide CharteredWaters.com 417.334.1005 Celebrity Car Museum CelebrityCarMuseum.com Zip Lining BransonZipline.com Go Carts BransonTracks.com Outlet Mall PremiumOutlets.com

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May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 57

Terrific Teacher

Beth Files Named Teacher of the Year Article Janice Phelan | Photography Provided

B

eth Files, vocal music director at Summit Lakes Middle School, was named Lee’s Summit R-7 School District 2014 Teacher of the Year during a surprise announcement at an April community reception. The reception also recognized 12 teachers who were named Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce Excellence In Teaching Award winners earlier this spring.

The Teacher of the Year is selected from R-7 educators who are either current or past winners of the Excellence in Teaching Award.

At Summit Lakes Middle School, Files serves as lead teachAs Teacher of the Year, Files will go on to participate in the er and chair for the Music Department and is a member of the Missouri Teacher of the Year program. She has been an educa- Site-Based Team. She has supported eight student teachers and tor for 29 years, including 13 years with the Lee’s Summit School four R-7 cadet teachers while also mentoring beginning teachers.

District. Files has established a tiered choir invitational for ele- Within Lee’s Summit, Files developed a piano keyboard unit usmentary, middle and high school students, and she has presented ing recycled piano keyboards as well as an acoustical guitar unit at numerous state, regional and national conferences about music for middle-school students. for elementary and middle school students. She has also has orIn the community, she has been involved in church ministries, ganized over 60 student trips and more than 500 performances. including leading several teen mission trips for flood and hurri“Through learning music, students are able to relate different cane relief. She volunteers for Hillcrest Charities through her subjects, apply emotions and church and donates her time at previous learning to their expenursing homes where she has rience,” says Files. “A compositaught music classes for senior tion may touch upon historical citizens, coordinates student experiences, writing, poetry, performances and performs. mathematics, foreign language She also performs in a profesor even physical characterissional vocal trio, Three in One. tics but performing and underBefore coming to Lee’s Sumstanding a meaningful musical mit, Files taught vocal music in composition with emotion is the Harrisonville, Blue Valley one of the most valuable learnand Raymore-Peculiar school ing experiences for any child.” districts. She has previously Files has been praised for her taught courses for elementary outstanding attitude within music teachers at Avila College Carrie Mayle of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce Education Committee the classroom and for helping and has served as choir director and Dr. David McGehee, R-7 superintendent, unfurl the banner announcing the students to learn to sing as well 2014 Teacher of the Year. at several area churches. as to appreciate music.

She earned a bachelor’s de“Mrs. Files’ positive and gree in music education and perfriendly attitude allowed me to enjoy myself while singing,” wrote formance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, a master’s one student. “She helped us learn music skills that helped prepare in music choral conducting from the University of Missouri-Kanme for high-school music class.” sas City and has done additional post-graduate work in communication disorders from the University of Central Missouri.

58 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF JAZZOO. GET TICKETS TODAY. An anniversary this special calls for a return to our penguin-suit roots.

Literally. Join us in traditional black-tie attire to commemorate 25 years and the recent arrival of three new species of cold-weather penguins at the zoo.

You will enjoy cuisine from these restaurants, plus live music and more.

12 Baltimore/Hotel Phillips 75th Street Brewery 810 Zone Affordable Catering Argosy Casino & Spa BRGR Kitchen & Bar Barley’s Brewhaus Belfonte Ice Cream & Dairy Foods Co. Big Momma’s Bakery–Café Bizz and Weezy’s Confections Bobkat Dan Gourmet Products *Brancato’s Catering Chaz Restaurant at The Raphael Hotel Chuy’s Claridge Court Cosentino’s Catering Café’ Nordstrom Cooper’s Hawk Edible Arrangements Farm to Market Bread Company Frida’s Contemporary Mexican Cuisine

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Garozzo’s Gates Bar-B-Q Gram & Dun Hiland Dairy Co. Hy-Vee Catering – Raytown Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse Kaldi’s Coffee / Latteland KC Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Lakeview Village Les Bourgeois Vineyards Lew’s Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions Louisburg Cider Mill Magnolia’s Contemporary Southern Bistro MeMa’s Old-Fashioned Bakery Mestizo by Aaron Sanchez Murray’s Tables & Tap Noodles & Company Nick & Jakes

O’Dowd’s Little Dublin O’Neill’s Restaurant & Bar RA Sushi Rusty Horse Tavern Seasons 52 St James Winery Sheridan’s Frozen Custard Snow & Company Sunset Grill Sweet Tomatoes Restaurant Taco Republic T-Rex Café The Blue Moose Bar & Grill The Melting Pot The Roasterie Café The Well Bar – Grill & Rooftop The Zebra Room at the Aladdin Hotel Tortilla Ranch Mexican Grill Urban Table Westin/Sheraton Kansas City Hotels Waldo Pizza

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Locally Owned

Building and Remodeling Runs in the Family Article Jenny Wolff Photography McKenna Mathewson & Provided

F

or nearly seven decades, Kevin Dill’s family has been helping build and remodel homes in Lee’s Summit. As a fourth generation contractor, his family’s commitment to community and customer service has led to the success of what is now Dill Enterprises.

Kevin’s great-grandfather started his business in the 1950s. His grandfather, John Peters, was an independent contractor who served on the Lee’s Summit planning commission, helping to establish many of the building codes still in effect today. Paul Dill, Kevin’s father, developed several large neighborhoods, building and remodeling area homes for more than 40 years. Kevin started his own business in 1991, growing Dill Enterprises with his father and great uncle, Lester Patterson.

This multi-generation background gives Kevin and his wife Diana a sense of old-fashioned values, which along with their modern outlook on style and design drives their work.

The company specializes in kitchen, bath and basement remodels, from their showroom and design center just down the street from Lee’s Summit High School. The sign out front says “Dill Enterprises, Home of the Five Day Kitchen.”

So what is a Five Day Kitchen?

“It is a complete kitchen remodel, start to finish, within one week,” says Kevin. “If we don’t change the footprint of the kitchen, it can be done.” Keeping the same footprint means keeping the plumbing, electrical and all appliances in their original locations. It also means a huge cost savings.

The Five Day Kitchen program incorporates top-caliber components, including StarMark Cabinetry, granite countertops, tile backsplash, flooring options, wall paint, new sink, Moen faucet, garbage disposal and light fixtures. The cost ranges from approximately $13,500 to $18,000.

“We are looking for people who are interested in us installing a Five Day Kitchen,” says Diana. “We will put in the new kitchen ‘at cost,’ and in return, we’ll use photos of their kitchens for our marketing efforts.” As the company’s design coordinator, Diana works with customers to determine what they want, establish their style and find the most cost-effective way to meet their needs.

The company works with a consistent set of sub-contractors.

“I’ve been using the same hardwood floor contractor for 23 years,” says Kevin. “Most have been with us 9-10 years. They know how we want things to look and they come through.” Although 60 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Kevin can personally do most everything necessary to complete any remodeling project, he would much rather hire specialized craftsman and contractors to perform the work they do day in and day out.

Most of the Dill Enterprises projects are custom, and many customers live in Lakewood.

“We are now completing our fourth job on Basswood Drive in Lakewood,” says Kevin with a smile. “When one homeowner likes us, they tend to recommend us to their friends.” Kevin notes that in 2013, the company served 39 customers, of which 33 were from referrals. It is not uncommon for the company to do a kitchen remodel for a family one year, and return the following year to tackle a bath or basement.

So what is their key to success? Beyond top-flight workmanship and attention to detail, Kevin points to the construction calendar he creates so the homeowner knows what to expect each day. And cleanliness is crucial. Dill Enterprises crews put away all their tools, sweep and tidy up each evening.

Whatever the ultimate answer, this couple is enjoying and building on the family legacy of contractor service and success.

“Our goal is that everybody walks away happy,” says Diana.

For more information, visit DillEnterprises.com or call 816.554.3455.

4725 NE Lakewood Way, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

816.795.8848 | www.WoodsChapelChurch.org May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 61

ka n sa s cIt y tr Ial l aW y ers f or 3 0 years

Randall Cain is the 2014 President of the Eastern Jackson County Bar Association

randy & karen caIn Professional Service with a Family Touch Personal Injury & MalPractIce | traffIc & crIMInal BankruPtcy | estate PlannIng | WIlls and trusts 4971 NE Goodview Circle, Suite B, Lee's Summit, MO 64064

(816) 795-7714 | www.CainandCain.com 62 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Lee’s Summit Properties neighborhood

original list

sold $$ %sold/orig

dom*

bdrms full/half bath

floorplan

Raintree Villas

$217,500

$212,500

98%

94

3

3/0

Ranch

Windsboro

$243,900

$240,000

98%

116

5

3/1

2 Stories

Raintree Lake

$250,000

$241,000

96%

3

4

3/1

2 Stories

Meadows of Winterset

$262,400

$256,000

89%

148

4

3/1

1.5 Story

Monarch View

$262,900

$257,000

98%

49

4

3/1

2 Stories

Siena at Longview

$267,500

$274,483

103%

0

3

3

1.5 Story

Oaks Ridge Meadows

$279,900

$275,000

98%

93

4

4/1

2 Stories

Brooks Farm

$279,950

$275,950

99%

403

4

3/1

2 Stories

Raintree Lake

$300,000

$292,000

97%

34

3

2

Timber Hills

$294,900

$294,900

100%

19

4

3/1

2 Stories

Parkwood at Stoney Creek

$295,900

$300,100

101%

78

4

4/1

2 Stories

Eagle Creek

$329,950

$322,950

98%

0

4

3/1

1.5 Story

Lakeside at Chapman Farms

$319,950

$327,030

102%

393

5

4

2 Stories

Woodland Glen

$330,840

$335,023

101%

0

4

3/2

Reverse 1.5 Story

Legacy Wood

$340,000

$345,590

102%

0

4

3/1

2 Stories

$347,955

$347,955

100%

0

3

3

Longview Farm Estates

$369,900

$369,900

100%

196

5

4/1

1.5 Story

Dalton’s Ridge

$365,990

$391,571

107%

0

4

3/1

2 Stories

New Longview

$395,821

$402,495

102%

0

4

3/1

2 Stories

Winterset Valley

$424,900

$424,900

100%

393

4

2/1

Reverse 1.5 Story

Winterset Woods

$445,000

$425,000

96%

40

4

3/2

2 Stories

Woodland Shores

$525,000

$485,000

92%

256

4

4/1

1.5 Story

Park Ridge Manor

Ranch

Ranch

Lakewood

$550,000

$534,000

97%

5

4

3/1

Reverse 1.5 Story

Lakewood

$700,000

$647,000

92%

119

5

5/1

1.5 Story

Windsor

$775,000

$698,000

90%

157

5

5/2

1.5 Story

Toni Tygart

Information obtained from Heartland MLS for the period of 03/1/14 to 03/31/14. *DOM=Days on Market.

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www.ToniTygart.com May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 63

Giving Back

Offering Support, Offering Hope The Heart of America Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association helps all whose lives have been touched by the vicious disease Article Katherine Bontrager | Photography Provided

I

t’s referred to as the “mind robber,” and some 5.2 million Americans struggle with this relentless thief. In truth, though, Alzheimer’s steals so much more than just the mind. It wreaks havoc on relationships, finances and, as the sixth leading cause of death, it steals lives.

Most frightening of all is that the disease is set to explode as the nation’s population ages. By 2025, it’s estimated that some 7 million people will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s—a 40 percent increase. At the ready to lend a helping hand is the Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter, which helps individuals with the disease, their families and care partners deal with the devastating diagnosis.

The national organization got its start in 1981 when a handful of caregivers sat around a kitchen table discussing their shared struggles with loved ones who were suffering from Alzheimer’s, says Juliette Bradley, director of communications for the Association.

64 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

“The disease was poorly understood by doctors and generally considered a hopeless condition,” she explains. “Those with the disease and their care partners had few resources for information and support. Following the lead of the newly formed National Alzheimer’s Association, this small group of local advocates banded together to form a Kansas City chapter in hopes of providing support to caregivers.”

Over the past 33 years, the local Chapter has grown from serving a few dozen with one or two support groups to serving 66 counties in Kansas and Missouri through hundreds of support programs and services, educational classes and workshops, awareness events and advocacy.

“Within this service area, 50,000 individuals and more than 200,000 family members and care partners are affected by the emotional, physical and financial challenges of this disease,” Bradley says.

“Every year more than 30,000 individuals utilize the Chapter for information or support—all free of charge.”

Helma Hawkins is one of the many who’s turned to the Association for guidance and support. “My husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2010. He was diagnosed on a Wednesday, and we went to the Association on a Friday. They were wonderful from the start, and we’ve been going ever since.”

The Hawkinses attend group meetings twice a month. “My husband is in a group with people in the early stages, and I’m in a group of caregivers at the same time so we can both attend. My husband also participates in a Memories in the Making© watercolor class. His paintings have twice been chosen for the annual art auction benefitting the Association.” (This year’s Art Auction will be held May 1. Information is available on the Chapter’s website, Alz.org/KansasCity.)

Hawkins values the relationship her family has with the Alzheimer’s Association. “It’s just been amazing. I’ve learned so much. I’m somebody who likes to feel as prepared as you can for something, and I’ve done a lot of reading and gathered a lot of information, but hearing from others in the same situation is just vital, I think.”

Among the services provided are a 24-hour information and support line (at 1.800.272.3900), individualized care consultations, family courses on caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, support groups, professional/caregiver conferences, legal issue seminars, and much more.

“It’s our hope that anyone who is in the midst of an Alzhei-

mer’s journey knows about our organization and the services we offer,” Bradley says. “Alzheimer’s knows no boundaries. It crosses cultures, races, ethnicities, and genders. Those with early stage Alzheimer’s can be in their 40’s or their 80’s. There are many struggles associated with living with Alzheimer’s disease, starting with acceptance of the diagnosis to learning how to cope—and thrive—throughout the Alzheimer’s journey. Care partners, as well as individuals with the disease, have their own struggles, and the Chapter supports in many different ways all those affected through the constant changes in the face of Alzheimer’s.”

The Chapter is funded primarily through individual, corporate, and foundation support. Fundraisers are a critical part of the organization’s revenue and include the Memories in the Making© Art Auction, Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Blondes vs. Brunettes Women’s Flag Football Game, and many Do It Yourself (DIY) fundraisers hosted by local advocates.

And the funds these efforts raise is of the utmost importance, in particular, Bradley says, because as a society we have less interest in, direct fewer resources to, and are less empathetic to the plight and needs of older adults, especially those with dementia.

“There continues to be stigma attached to Alzheimer’s. We want to educate the public to reduce this stigma, increase awareness about Alzheimer’s, and ensure that the community is knowledgeable about the vital programs and services we provide.”

M a de ly n C ox - G u e r r a A senior and 4-year debater, Madelyn is a national qualifier in Lincoln-Douglas debate, a state qualifier in prose reading, and an Outstanding Distinction Member of the National Forensic League. She also is a member of the National Art Honor Society, the NHS, an IB Diploma candidate, and on the tennis team. She plans to attend William Jewell in the Oxbridge Honors program. She is the daughter of Erick and Alina Guerra.

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May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 65

Home Matters

Tips for Buying a Lake Home in Lee’s Summit Article and Photography Renee Amey

Y

ou finally made the decision that one of Lee’s Summit’s lake communities is the right choice for you and now it is just a matter of determining which house and which community. There is so much to consider. One of the first steps is to examine all the amenities each community offers. The “culture” of each community is also important to factor in. Finding the right fit for you and your family is an important part of the journey whether you chose to live at Lakewood, Lake Lotawana, Raintree Lake, Lake Winnebago or Prairie Lee Lake.

Some things to consider:

Are you looking for great fishing, skiing, wakeboarding and sailing, or the picturesque setting and the undeniable energy around the lake that promotes an active lifestyle?

-Sports/Recreation. Pools, equestrian, sports courts, golf, beach volleyball and trails are just a few of the options in addition to all of the wonderful water sports lake living offers.

-Newer vs. older homes. Newer is not always better as the creativity in remodels on the lake is amazing.

-Reasons for your move to the lake.

66 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

-Dock and boat slip availability. Are there private or public docks? And are

public docs available?

Pricing on and off the lake at each community as well as HOA dues or special assessments.

-Lake Size. Population of the community, school districts, commutability from community.

-Other offerings at the lake. Yacht club, community center, dining options.

-Budget.

Lake home design options are infinite and there is something for everyone. Variety is found in abundance and you can find all styles of homes: from Mediterranean to timberframe; from Colonial to contemporary and with price points from the $200K’s to the $4 million range.

The key to your search is finding the right lot. You may prefer the lower traffic offered by a house on the coves or prefer the wide views found only on the main channel. Lot sizes vary and standard sized lots are different for each community. Water depth near the lot is also something to research as you may want to add a boat lift or an upper level dock where the kids can jump or slide into the lake. Second and third tier lots are also popular at some area lakes and offer residents the same privileges of use on the lake without the lakeside view.

Lee’s Summit’s lake communities may each have different offerings and amenities but one consistent feature in all of them is the sense of community. The love of the lake lifestyle and all the activity it provides is something all neighbors appreciate and share with each other. We may not have the mountains or the ocean but we do have beautiful lakes that afford us activities that keep us inspired and create a sense of family and community. It is really a lifestyle choice that you are buying into when purchasing a lake community home. The details are important in making the right choice for you and your family.

To learn more about the amenities offered at area lakes, visit LeesSummitLakeHomes.com. Click on “Lake Homes” and then “Lake Recap” to see details on all that is offered in each of Lee’s Summit’s lake communities.

roads of

ar abia archaeology and history of the kingdom of saudi arabia

45th & Oak 3 blocks east of the Plaza nelson-atkins.org

open april 25 Roads of Arabia: Archaeology and History of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is organized by the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution in association with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. ExxonMobil and Saudi Aramco are gratefully acknowledged as principal co-sponsors of the tour of Roads of Arabia in the United States. Sponsorship is also provided by The Olayan Group and Fluor Corporation.

Principal co-sponsors of the US tour

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 67

Parent’s Corner

Developing Identity and Accountability in our Children Article Valerie Hamaker

M

y life changed the day I attended a class on strengthening marriage and family a few years ago. Not only did it propel me into the formal study of marriage and family counseling, but it was instrumental in changing the way I view my relationship with my children and my whole attitude about parenting. The instructor mentioned that one of his daughters struggled with obedience throughout her high school years. He said she spent a significant amount of one year in her bedroom as a consequence for her poor choices and that during this period of time both he and his wife also spent a good amount of that time in their daughter’s bedroom too—laughing and visiting with her. What? Either he had misspoken or I misunderstood. Didn’t he mean to say that they were all in her bedroom arguing? Everyone knows that when a child is sent to her room, it is accompanied by a slamming door and frustration felt by all…Right?

That this couple could reject their daughter’s behavior by maintaining very concise boundaries and restrictions while still maintaining a loving and warm relationship with her seemed out of reach for me as a parent. But I was intrigued with the possibility that good things could happen in our family relationships if I could maintain emotional equilibrium, even while slogging through the rough waters of parenting when a child is disrespectful or disobedient.

68 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

I have woven this thread of an idea into the tapestry of my ongoing parenting experiences and while I still have a long way to go, I am learning a few things.

1. When I get angry, what am I really communicating?

When my children are able to see that I am not happy with their choices but that I see them as separate from what they do, their CHOICES take the spotlight and their identity as a child, a valuable member of the family, or a human being does not come into question. A yelling fest usually communicates many things to my children—most of which have nothing to do with the actual issue at hand.

2. Be consistent with consequences.

Just because I try to avoid the trap of angry words, a raised voice, or harsh silence—does not mean that I am not going to communicate to my children that their behavior isn’t okay. This is when I firmly express my disappointment and the appropriate consequence that accompany the misbehavior and be immovable in my resolve to follow through. If I don’t follow through then my parenting has moved from responsible to permissive.

3. Expect setbacks.

There will be lots of them. To be disrespected or disobeyed or betrayed by our children takes our feelings to deep and vulnerable places. We feel hurt, weak, frightened, or even guilty. Yet rather than expressing these softer feelings, we move to anger—an emotion that masks our vulnerability. We are susceptible to anger especially when a child’s indiscretion hits us in a ‘soft spot,’ or an area where we are especially insecure. But anger happens less frequently as we acknowledge our softer feelings and express those feelings to our children.

with my older children as they embark on their teenage years and I’m grateful for any rapport that we have previously developed during their less-mysterious younger years.

Valerie Hamaker is a graduate student in marriage and family counseling and is interning at Accessing Change in Liberty. She and her husband are raising four children in Lee’s Summit.

4. Capitalize on unstructured bonding time.

I try to make time to just be with my children. With my little ones, it is usually around a board game. With my older children, a car ride is ideal for learning about what’s going on in their lives. This intentional parenting time serves two valuable purposes. First, I find that this close bond acts as a dose of preventative medicine against future behavioral issues. But sometimes this isn’t enough and our children still struggle. In this case, I find that it is much more natural to set boundaries without anger when a loving relationship is the standard. In other words, there is no way to set boundaries and communicate disappointment in a loving way when the relationship norm is contentious or distant.

5. Start trying now.

This is key! I find that it is much easier to practice loving boundary making with our adorable toddlers than with those complicated adolescents. I am constantly mystified by how to handle situations

Our Feet Carry Us Through Life…

Keep Them Healthy!

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Foot, Arch & Heel Pain | Bone Spurs/Prominences | Ingrown Toenails & Infections | Warts | Hammertoes Bunions | Soft Tissue Lesions | Skin Conditions | Foot Trauma & Fracture Care | Gout | Neuromas Sports & Tendon Injuries | Ulcer Care | Custom Orthotics | Wound Care | Diabetic Foot Care

6 NW Sycamore St., Lee’s Summit, MO | 816.246.4222 | JFosterDPM.com May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 69

Page Turners

Do Your Laundry or You’ll Die Alone Advice Your Mom Would Give if She Thought You Were Listening

By Becky Blades $13.99 147 pages Reviewed by Anne Potter Russ

P

arenthood does now, indeed, come with a manual! We can all stop complaining that no one ever provided a “how-to” book on raising children and doing laundry and navigating life. Kansas City author Becky Blades has come to our collective aid and written the most important little square book in the history of self-help tomes, Do Your Laundry or You’ll Die Alone: Advice Your Mom Would Give If She Thought You Were Listening.

She’s a rock star, a mom, a genius, an artist, and the voice in your head telling you that children who are self-sufficient launderers will rule the world. The 269 nuggets of advice are almost as gorgeous as the artwork Blades provides for the backdrop. She wrote it all down for us (and illustrated it), and all we have to do is read and share with our kids (when they look like they might be listening). My personal favorite nugget is #36 – “A bad attitude makes your butt look big.” Right?

70 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

ou r ce y Advi uld give ht wo mom e thoug if sh u were yo ning liste

Blades began her journey of putting the finishing touches on her college-bound daughter by having a panic attack. Did her daughter, Taylor, know the other stuff–not the grades, the test scores, the leadership qualities–but, #’s 160, 161 and 162? “Move your body;” “Still your mind;” and “Fasten your seat belt.” Maybe she hadn’t been listening to #118, “Keep your household cleaning products separate from your personal hygiene products. Using Pledge instead of hairspray can set back your morning.” See, this stuff is genius! Blades' instinct to write her advice to Taylor turned into a home run for the rest of us.

The combination of serious and silly, frank and fabulous, and utter common sense make this little gem of a book the parenting bible of the 21st century–or at least this week. Number 74 – “If you want to shorten an argument, break into a French accent.” I’m actually going to try that one.

My favorite theme of Blades'–and it’s included in the title of her blog, Startistry.com, is the art of stARTing something. As #71 proclaims, “Don’t put off starting something because you aren’t sure you can finish it… Only one thing is sure to keep you from finishing: not starting.” The woman is spying on me. I am the guiltiest of guilty overstretched and under-motivated moms. Blades gives us all permission to start something and follow the urge, even if it doesn’t end in creative perfection. Hey, we started our kids, didn’t we?

The thing is, though, Becky Blades did finish this one with style and flair and grace. And for that, I’m grateful. Who else would have thought to tell my two teens, “Don’t sit on aluminum bleachers in a lightening storm?” (#58) This is the best gift of the spring season for you, your kids or your parents (highlight the parts for your own parents that you really did listen to!). Blades' brilliance is your best pair of jeans – makin’ you look good! Find her, the book and her daughters at LaundryOrDie.com.

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1310 Carondelet, KC MO 64114 ebtrestaurant.com | 816.942.8870 May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 71

Driver’s Notebook

Jag’s New Roadster is a Serious Sports Car Article and Photography Tom Strongman

J

aguar’s beautiful new F-Type V-8 S sports car has an exhaust that pops and crackles with a sound that is part Formula One and part ‘48 Mercury with straight pipes when you trigger the active exhaust system with a button on the console. The change in sound serves notice that this is not a Jag like any other.

Don’t be mistaken, the new F-Type with the 495-horsepower, supercharged V-8 is not a boulevard cruiser beefed up for performance; it is a bonafide performance car softened enough to be a boulevard cruiser.

It packs plenty of bite to go with its bark.

Poke the throttle and the surge pastes you back in the seat as the car slingshots to 60 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds. The electronically limited top track speed is 186 mph. As a friend once said, it goes fast quick.

72 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

The F-Type is a lightweight, all-aluminum, rear-wheel-drive two-seater built to challenge any car in its segment. It is beautifully styled, carefully crafted and built to have world-class performance. It’s only available as a convertible, but a coupe version is rumored.

There’s a price for this excellence. The well-optioned test car, a V-8 S model, had a base price of $92,000 and a sticker price of $105,245. That’s more than a similarly equipped Porsche Boxster and less than the 911 Carrera S that was one of the performance targets. Other lower-priced competitors include the 335-horsepower BMW Z4, the Mercedes-Benz SLK with a 415-horsepower V-8 and, to a lesser extent, the 450-horsepower Corvette Stingray.

Two other F-Types are available, and both

have a supercharged, 3.0-liter V-6. One with 340 horsepower starts at $69,000, and the S model with 380 horsepower begins at $81,000. All use an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. No manual gearbox is offered as of yet.

Both the V-6 and the V-8 from which it was derived have dual overhead cams, variable camshaft timing, direct fuel injection and an Eaton supercharger.

Moving from the base model to the S also includes bigger brakes, an upgraded suspension and 19-inch instead of 18inch wheels. The V-8 S model has 20-inch wheels, an electronic limited slip differential and even bigger brakes.

It’s hard to explore the V-8’s performance without a racetrack, but my brief drive around town gave hints as to just

2014 Jaguar F-Type V-8 S model

The F-Type shows that Jaguar is serious about building a performance car. The V-8 makes prodigious power with great sound, the handling is tight and the ride is compliant. counterpoint: A well-optioned V-8 is pretty expensive. engine: 5.0-liter, 495-horsepower V-8 Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Rear-wheel drive Wheelbase: 103.2 inches Curb weight: 3,671 pounds base price: $92,000 As driven: $105,245 MPG equivalent: 16 in the city, 23 on the highway Point:

how capable the car is. The ride was compliant and comfortable despite the 20-inch wheels and ultra-low profile tires. I didn’t notice any undue harshness on the highway. When pushed through turns, the F-Type was composed and confident, at least at street speeds. The V-8 S model just begs for an open track so one can safely explore its performance.

The well-finished cabin was finished with soft-touch leather piano black trim. It was cozy but not crowded. The sport seats fit nicely and instrumentation was simple and clear. The fully automatic power top goes up or down in 12 seconds. The smallish trunk has 7 cubic feet of space so packing light is the order of the day for weekend trips but that is the case for most sports cars of this size.

Convenience and safety items included heated seats, heated steering wheel, heated windshield, front parking sensors, rearview camera, blindspot monitor, vehicle stability control and front and side airbags.

Price: The base price

of the V-8 S model was $92,000. Options included heated seats and steering wheel, garage door opener, wind deflector, adaptive front lighting, parking sensors and rearview camera, HD radio and satellite radio, heated windshield, Meridian premium audio system, performance seats, flat-bottomed steering wheel, selectable active exhaust, black interior trim and black metallic paint. The sticker price was $105,245.

Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles.

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Worship Time

Gathering to Worship at First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit LSL: Tell us a bit about your church.

FBC: First Baptist Church has been serving the Lee’s Summit community for more than 150 years. Our mission is to love God, love people, and make disciples. Our church family is very diverse, with people coming from all different backgrounds and situations. We are truly a multi-generational church, full of people of all ages seeking to experience and share God’s love. We are glad to have thriving ministries for preschoolers, children, students, men and women.

We believe that faith should make a difference in everyday life - it is not a “Sunday only” thing. Our pastor’s messages apply the truths of the Bible to situations we deal with in the real world.

We also offer a number of classes and groups focused on practical matters such as money management, health, marriage, parenting and grief.

LSL: What are some of the missions you are involved with?

FBC: We send mission teams to Guatemala every year, and we have undertaken major projects recently in Kenya and Liberia. Closer to home, we partner with Forest Avenue Baptist Church, a church doing remarkable ministry serving its inner city neighborhood and sheltering homeless women and children. We also work with local agencies such as Hillcrest Transitional Housing and Lee’s Summit Social Services that are doing great work in our community. We have a partnership with Westview Elementary through which we seek to provide encouragement and academic help to the school’s staff, students and families.

We also believe that Lee’s Summit is our primary mission field, so we try to be responsive to needs in the community that come to our attention. For example, it has become clear recently that many young moms in our community need companionship and occasional sanity breaks from the challenges of parenting little ones. So we have started a new morning exercise ministry for moms, with childcare provided. In the fall, we will be launching a big new ministry called MOPS (mothers of preschoolers).

LSL: What are some things that a visitor would notice about your church?

FBC: Guests often tell us that we are friendly - that they were welcomed without being singled out. We love to hear stories about people who haven’t been to church in a long time who are surprised by how quickly they feel at home at First Baptist Church.

Guests would also notice the amazing music. We have three distinct Sunday morning “flavors.” Whether it is the traditional ap74 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

proach of our 8:30 service, the orchestra and variety of other instruments in our 9:45 service, or the praise band in our 11 service, the music will inspire and encourage.

Guests would also notice that sometimes unexpected things happen. One Sunday we gave away our entire Sunday offering to a ministry to orphans in Guatemala. Another Sunday we all made a giant mosaic out of post-it notes.

Guests would also notice an abundance of smiles.

God is good, and we enjoy worshipping him and serving him together!

Details

First Baptist Church

In this ongoing series we hope to introduce our neighbors to many communities of faith in Lee’s Summit. To be included, email Kendra at KMathewson@ LifestylePubs.com.

2 NE Douglas Street 816.525.0700 FBCLS.com Blake McKinney, Senior Pastor

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Lifestyle Calendar

May

May 9

May 17

3rd Annual Hope House Margarita Ball

Big Truck and Equipment Show

Kansas City

Downtown Lee’s Summit

Get ready to party for a cause. DJ Ashton Martin and Lost Wax will be rocking the house so come and get your fill of dancing along with unlimited cocktails and tapas at the hot Club 1000. Tickets $100/ person. Event proceeds support Hope House’s daily operations, which include tens of thousands of interventions to more than 4,200 adult and child domestic violence survivors every year.

HopeHouse.net/MargaritaBall

Kids young and old have the opportunity to climb into the driver’s seat of some of the City’s biggest pieces of equipment from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at this free family-friendly event. Families can participate in games, prizes, face-painting and equipment demonstrations in front of City Hall. For more information, contact Lee’s Summit Public Works at 816.969.1800.

May 10 Paradise Park’s Mother’s Day Give Away Paradise Park

Hey! Hey! It’s Mother’s Day. The best one ever, hip-hooray! Treat Mom to a stress-free day of memory-making family fun. Paradise Park will help make sure Mom knows how much you love and appreciate her. And she can register to win one of the beautiful prizes offered. 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Paradise-Park.com

May 10-11, 17 Iris Weekend Powell Gardens

Stroll through the Gardens to “Iris Hill” where hundreds of multi-colored irises await. A great opportunity to see a tremendous variety of these gorgeous flowers. Mid-May is usually peak bloom time.

Check PowellGardens.org before you come. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

May 17 Pancake Breakfast and Young Eagles Program Lee’s Summit Municipal Airport

The program offers youth an introduction to flight with a free airplane ride and explanation of what makes an airplane fly. For youth ages 8 through 17. $5/person. Breakfast 7:30 -11 a.m.

May 17 Art & Artifacts Fair Downtown

May is Preservation Month. In an effort to identify cultural resources and encourage public education of historic preservation, the City of Lee’s Summit Historic Preservation Commission will hold its first fair. 1-4 p.m. at City Hall in the lobby.

May 23 Girl in Reverse Book Talk Nelson-Atkins Museum

Life-long Kansas Citian Barbara Stuber’s novel, Girl In Reverse, will be released this month

by Simon & Schuster. The book is set in 1951 76 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

in Kansas City and much of it takes place in the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art where Stuber has been a docent for 20 years.

The program will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. and will include a reading, a signing and a book talk about the ways art can inspire literature. BarbaraStuber.com

May 23 One Night Only with Tony Bennett Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Seventeen-time Grammy Award winning musician Tony Bennett will perform on in Muriel Kauffman Theatre. Ticket prices range from $69 to $189 and are available through the Kauffman Center Box Office at 816.994.7222, or online at KauffmanCenter.org.

May 29 Evening Wagon Ride and Swales Walk Independence

A great opportunity to learn about the Santa Fe Trail in this hour-long program that includes a wagon ride through the swales (grass-covered wagon ruts) created in the 1830’s and an insightful tour of the museum’s Santa Fe exhibit gallery. 6 p.m. $15/adult, $10 children ages 6 – 17. Advance reservations required. National Frontier Trails Museum. 816.325.7575 or FrontierTrailsMuseum.org.

May 30 Music in the Park Howard Station Park

Enjoy free Friday night concerts featuring a variety of musical genres, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend in Howard Station Park in Downtown Lee’s Summit. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. 6:30-10 p.m.

More information at DowntownLS.org.

May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 77

Lifestyle Calendar

May 30

June 6

Movie in the Park - Yogi Bear

25th Anniversary Jazzoo

Legacy Park Amphitheater

Kansas City Zoo

Lee’s Summit Parks & Rec hosts. Bring your own chairs/blankets.

Free admission. 7-10 p.m. Popcorn & Snowcones for sale onsite.

More information call 816.99.1555 or visit LSParks.net.

Kansas City’s WILDEST fundraiser helps raise funds for children’s educational programs and feeds the Zoo’s more than 1,100 animals.

Guests will enjoy delicious dishes from many Kansas City area restaurants, limitless libations and entertainment throughout the night on four different stages. Show your animal inspired creative black-tie attire and make a grand entrance at Jazzoo. $175/person.

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May 31 Steppin’Out 25th Anniversary Showcase Bernard Campbell Performing Arts Center

“We’re Gonna Party” is the year-end showcase featuring the student talents. Audiences will be treated to award-winning performances by children ages 2 1/2 up through adult. Famous for their father/daughter routines, this year’s routine is sure to bring the house down. 3 p.m.

June 6-7 29th Sugar Creek Slavic Festival Sugar Creek

The Festival invites visitors of all ages to enjoy entertainment and activities fit for a king. Grammy Award winner Brave Combo headlines the event, joined by the Miss Czech-Slovak Missouri Pageant and the annual Kielbasa Eating Contest. Two days of music, food and dance complete the Midwest’s premier celebration of Slavic heritage. SlavicFest.com

78 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Lee’s Summit Community Calendar Do you have a free weekend and find yourself looking for something to do? Are you planning a special event or festival? Check out LSTourism.com for a comprehensive list of community events. If your group is planning an event, check here first to make sure it doesn’t conflict with other local happenings.

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Art & Photography

Benefit District of Independence Portrait Gallery (816) 461-5400 portraitinc.com

Automotive

Dave Cross Motors (816) 524-3636 davecrossmotors.com Executive Automotive (816) 524-6100 executiveautomotive.com Lee’s Summit Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram (913) 687-8041 leessummitdodgechryslerjeep.com

Child Camps, Care & Tutoring Club Z & Home Tutoring (816) 965-0090 clubztutoring.com

Community Events & Organizations Just for Her Expo (913) 634-4337 justforherexpokc.com

Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce (816) 524-2424 yourstrulyls.com

Dentists & Orthodontics Sheila R. Jungmeyer DDS, PC & Associates (816) 554-1600 jungmeyerdental.com Spencer & Spencer (816) 607-6000 spencerdental.com

Dry Cleaners

Ross Miller Dry Cleaning (816) 554-6656 rossmillercleaners.com

Education

Our Lady Of Presentation School (816) 251-1150 olplsschool.org Park University (816) 746-2579 park.edu/atomba 80 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

Summit Christian Academy (816) 525-1480 summit-christian-academy.org

Grocery

Entertainment & Recreation

Health & Wellness

KCABA (Kansas City Amateur Baseball Association) (816) 547-3232 leaguelineup.com/kcnaba

Jazzercise of Lee’s Summit (816) 551-0627

Kansas City Zoo (816) 513-5800 jazzookc.org

Lee’s Summit Parks and Rec (816) 969-1500 lsparks.net Lee’s Summit Symphony (816) 401-5251 lssymphony.org Paradise Park (816) 246-5224 paradise-park.com

Cosentino’s Food Stores (913) 749-1616 Awaken Whole Life Center (816) 565-4017 awakenwholelifecenter.com

The Center For Rheumatic Disease (816) 531-0930 centerforrheumatic.com

Home Builders & Remodelers Dill Enterprises Inc. (816) 554-3455 dillenterprises.com

Home Design & Furnishings Budget Blinds of Lee’s Summit (816) 554-7779 budgetblinds.com/leessummit

Reno’s Power Sports KC (816) 942-8900 renoscanam.com

Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com

The Nelson-Atkins Museum (816) 751-1286 nelson-atkins.org

Home Services

Xtreme Gymnastics & Training (816) 347-8008 xtremefamilyfitnesskc.com

Fashion & Accessories

Braden Roofing (913) 341-0200 bradenroofing.com Handyman USA (913) 534-4715 handymanusa.biz

Especially Jewelry (816) 246-2184 especiallyjewelry.com

KC Wood (913) 422-3320 kcwood.com

Meierotto Midwest Jewelers (816) 453-1111 mjewelry.com

Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com

Financial Services & Planning Community America cacu.com/high-interest-savings

ProConcreteFX, LLC (816) 866-7239 proconcretefx.com

Cornerstone Mortgage Inc. (816) 525-9910 cornerstonemortgage.com

Sound Bytes KC (816) 525-8823 soundbyteskc.com

Edward Jones 1-(800) ED-JONES edwardjones.com

Tile & Stone Warehouse (913) 432-7900 tileandstonewarehouse.com

RBC Wealth Management/ Haynes & Woodward (913) 451-3572 rbcwmfa.com/hayneswoodwardinvgrp

Insurance

Florists

Legal Services

Alissa’s Flower & Interior (816) 254-7727 alissasflowers.com

State Farm - Michael Chapman (816) 525-6868 trustchapman.com Law Offices Of Cain & Cain PC (816) 795-7714 cainandcain.com

Medical Clinics & Facilities Associated Plastic Surgeons (913) 451-3722 plastic surgeonsyoucantrust.com Bennett EyeCare Midwest (816) 454-2020 bennetteyecaremidwest.com Foot Care Specialist (816) 246-4222 jfosterdpm.com Lee’s Summit Medical Center (816) 282-5000 leessummitmedicalcenter.com Mid America Rehab Hospital (913) 491-2400 midamericarehabhospital.com Midwest Physicians/HCA Midwest Health System (816) 751-4884 mymidwestphysician.com Saint Luke’s Health System (816) 932-5100 saintlukesweightloss.com Truman Medical Center-Lakewood (816) 404-6755 trumed.org

Restaurants, Food & Beverage

University of Kansas Hospital (913) 588-1227 kucancercenter.org/leessummit

County Beverage Company (816) 525-4550 beeresponsible.com

Visiting Nurse Association (816) 531-1200 vnakc.com

EBT Restaurant (816) 942-8870 ebtrestaurant.com

Real Estate

Senior Living & Services

Gale Team (816) 808-3780 Keller Williams Platinum Partners LC (816) 875-1711 frankpaszkiewicz.yourkwagent.com Renee Amey Team - RE/MAX Elite (816) 795-2595 reneeamey.com Summit East Plaza Apartments (816) 524-8222 summiteastapts.com

Home Instead (816) 554-6166 homeinstead.com

Simply Home Companion and Personal Care, LLC (816) 246-6300 simplyhomesenior.com Summit View Terrace (816) 763-6667 americareusa.net

Specialty Shops Cargo Largo (816) 350-6101 cargolargo.com

Toni Tygart Real Estate Group (816) 795-2500 tonitygart.com

Religion

Woods Chapel United Methodist Church (816) 795-8848 woodschapelchurch.org

Henry’s Antiques, Collectibles & Tea Room (816) 524-3992 henrystearoom.com

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May 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 81

Parting Thoughts

Stepping Up to the Plate Words Ryan Rosser

T

he helmet wobbled around my head as I cautiously took my first steps to stand over home base. A not-so-confident 6-year-old, I tapped the plate with my bat, glanced over my shoulder to find my parents, and gulped air.

Across the field stood the enemy. The other team. A group determined to dash my hoped-for success. Their shortstop pulled a pinch of Big Chew and shoved the wad inside his cheeks. He started the chant. Hey batter, batter, batter... SWING! Suddenly, little league didn’t seem so little anymore. Was it too late to quit? Mom could get a refund on my jersey, right? It wasn’t even dirty yet. Then I looked to the pitcher’s mound. A friendly face. My coach.

I breathed relief. I had heard horror stories about kid-pitch baseball.

I kicked a dirt cloud behind my cleats and brought the bat over my shoulder. The coach smiled, and I grimaced in return. He raised his arm and released the ball. It zeroed in on me at breakneck speed. THUD! I dropped the bat and grabbed my shoulder where the ball had struck. My face burned hot with embarrassment, steaming away my tears. The umpire escorted me to first base. The game had just begun and already I longed for the concession stand inning.

Today, I’ve graduated from the little league of childhood to the big league of parenting. My thoughts race as I stare out toward the next few months. Two kids, about to have three. Three kids aged 3 and under. A whole outfield of children. The diapers. The exhaustion. The teething. Oh, the teething! There’s not enough air to swallow.

82 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | May 2014

My daughter is sound asleep; one down. Now time for the older boy. I escort him from the living room to his bedroom. It’s his and his alone for just a little while longer. I tuck him in. He listens to a story and prayer. “Two pray?” he asks as I stand to leave. How can I say no to that?

I pray my regular prayer again, “God, thank you for my children. May they lie down and rest in peace, and know that you alone are their security.” But I hear a taunt chanting in my ear.

Hey daddy, daddy, daddy... SWING! My son’s eyes drowsily close as I continue to pray. His peace is infectious. The future doesn’t look so daunting anymore. I ignore the taunt, kiss my son goodnight, and leave him to his dreams.

I was called up into the majors when I became a dad. No longer just a guy with a great wife. I have a tiny team.

Diapers get filled. Sleep is lost. And teething is a fact of life. But so is stepping up to the plate when it matters most. Sometimes it means taking a few lumps and limping to base. Sometimes it means hitting the homerun and knowing that today—even if just for today—I did it right.

When my kids are older, I’ll tell them about little league. “It’s okay to be afraid when you first step to the plate,” I’ll say, “Because fear is just an opportunity to be courageous.”

And when the time comes for them to swing their own bat at parenting, I’ll pray I coached them well.

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