summer 2009
sHawnee People, places and style defined
magazine
big bam’s mouthwatering burgers $3.00
Inspired home design
Women getting outdoors
Summer nights with the family
Dear
Reader
As we wrap up this summer issue of Shawnee Magazine, I am simultaneously wreaking havoc on my house.
Katy
editor
summer 09
sHawnee People, places and style defined
magazine
Publisher/Art Director Darby Oppold Editor Katy Ibsen Copy Editor Susie Fagan Advertising Sales Mary Hay (913) 631-1611 Manager Bert Hull Designer Tamra Rolf Ad Designers Shelly Kemph Tamra Rolf Photographers Tim Andersen Jason Dailey Contributing Writers Kim Antisdel Ryan Brown Gloria Gale Vince Meserko Jaime Netzer Kimberly Stern Marketing Assistant Faryle Scott
_____________________
Subscriptions $20 (plus tax) for a one-year subscription to Shawnee Magazine. For subscription information, please contact: Christopher J. Bell 609 New Hampshire St., P.O. Box 888 Lawrence, KS 66044 (800) 578-8748 | Fax (785) 843-1922 Or e-mail comments to shawneemagazine@sunflowerpub.com
_____________________
Shawnee Magazine is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of The World Company. www.sunflowerpub.com
sHawneemagazine
The Realtor told me that I was a “25-percenter”: someone who looks at a home and instantly wants to make improvements and add their personal style. Now I am wondering why she didn’t tell me that this group of homeowners also should have their sanity checked. (I have lost mine.) My to-do list includes tearing up a bathroom to add a shower, creating a bedroom closet that would be useful to humans—not cats— and doing plenty of other nut-and-bolt projects. Because at this point, why not? Of course, reading this season’s Shawnee Magazine has presented me with a few other “25-percenters.” Those who (like the homeowner inside me) have chosen to take on a challenge of their own and make it something wonderful. Steve and Peggy Hughes come to mind with their Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired abode at Lake Quivira. They know firsthand the work and dedication that goes into updating a home. And for them, keeping with a specific architectural style made for an interesting story. Leaving house and home behind, Julie Cirlincuina of Shawnee recognized another niche and created Women’s Outdoor Recreation. The group ventures outdoors to hike, bike, kayak and try other new things together. By offering a source of friendship to its members, Women’s Outdoor Recreation gets the spotlight in our Support Group series. Then there is chef Ray Comiskey, who is devoted to a demanding career and industry. The Shawnee resident has made strides with his work at Capital Grille on the Country Club Plaza and with its Atlantabased restaurant group. His passion for good food and the quintessential dining experience has led him to where he is today. In terms of giving back, Shawnee resident Melanie Chezem joins us as a “25-percenter” after she developed, launched and successfully grew the nonprofit foundation Purses of Promise. With a desire to help battered women who are left with nothing, she started the grassroots organization that has aided women all over the metro area. More than anything, taking on a challenge for change makes someone a “25-percenter” in our book, and this summer issue highlights several people doing just that. Enjoy the inspiring stories as we bask in the spirit of making something better.
Vol. 2 / No. 4
1
Departments Contents
2009
summer
shawnee living
Capital Grille’s Ray Comiskey perfects his family-style recipe
04
08
In Every Issue
01 Dear Reader 42 Q&A 48 best bets
Features
The family chef
The flick chicks
How one group of gal pals keeps up on cinema
shawnee Businesses
Old-school flavor finds favor with loyal customers
18
Big Bam’s: Shawnee’s burger bonanza
Local profiles 28
32
36
Perfect promise
With a dash of panache, one Shawnee foundation helps restore the confidence of domestic violence victims
From small town to cowtown
The art of Kale Van Leeuwen
Woman vs. wild
Local women prove themselves in the great outdoors
health & fitness 38
40
Cancer calls
Local charity Cells for Cells answers the need for cancer fundraising
Living the Good Life
Exercise at 50 plus is an investment in a balanced and healthy life
For the Family 44
12
The home’s renewal
A remodeled retro-contemporary home full of color tugs at one couple’s heartstrings BY Gloria Gale
21
Inside inspiration
One Shawnee home reflects the art of living
sHawneemagazine
BY Kimberly Stern
2
on the cover
The Ladder 49 burger from Big Bam’s. {Photography by Jason Dailey} 18 big bam’s mouthwatering burgers 21 inspired home design 36 women getting outdoors 44 summer nights with the family
All in the family
Get the gang out for some fun this summer
get away 46
Head for the hills
Dust off the glitz from the Lone Star metros—an oasis of comfort awaits in the heart of Texas
Shawnee
living
chef’s table
story by
Kimberly Stern
photography by
sHawneemagazine
Tim Andersen
4
The family
chef
Capital Grille’s Ray Comiskey perfects his family-style recipe
The Capital Grille’s Chef Partner Ray Comiskey is one of those food wizards who consistently hits the high notes. As a practitioner of spot on menu execution at the Country Club Plaza’s celebrated upscale restaurant, Ray combines professional passion with a commitment to his family and Shawnee home. The award-winning chef and his 25-member kitchen staff at Capital Grille spin culinary magic daily for power-broker diners in search of dry aged, hand-cut porterhouses, Delmonicos and filet mignons, and ethereal creations like lobster mac ’n’ cheese and Parmesan truffle fries. Ray turns out food that manages to be elegant and shot through with pure comfort at the same time.
The Comiskey crew–Max, Tiffany, Ray and Taylor have created a supportive dynamic that caters to Ray’s busy schedule at the Capital Grille plaza restaurant.
Shawnee
living
Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and educated at the prestigious Johnson and Wales University campus in Charleston, South Carolina, Ray circuitously found his way to Kansas City via Hilton Head. Arriving here in 1992, he worked as executive chef in an impressive lineup of kitchens, including the Plaza’s Starker’s Reserve and the former Joe D’s Wine Bar and Café in Brookside. Ray’s desire to work in a chefdriven restaurant led him to Capital Grille in 2000. “It was a growing company with 13 restaurants at the time,” Ray says of the Atlanta-based organization. “I liked their corporate philosophy of a quality product and focus on the guest experience.” The Capital Grille opened on the Plaza in March 2001 to much acclaim and quickly established itself as a restaurant with impeccable food and superb customer
above left Taylor is in training with her own Capital Grille chef’s jacket.
sHawneemagazine
above right Ray Comiskey, Capital Grille chef partner, designed his Shawnee kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances for optimal family dining.
6
service. Ray provided several years of research and development for Capital Grille while performing his executive chef duties. For three years he trained most of the company’s Midwest chefs and sous chefs, and his kitchen has become a launching pad for many dishes adopted by the Capital Grille nationwide. The proprietary Kona and porcini rubs that Ray developed with a small team of chefs have become Capital Grille standards. Family and friends lucky enough to receive a personal dinner or party invitation to Ray’s western Shawnee homestead are treated to the chef’s same noteworthy professional food chops. He shares cooking duties with wife Tiffany in their spotless gourmet-equipped kitchen on days away from the hubbub of the restaurant, but admits it’s tricky achieving balance between preparing five-star meals and simple burgers. “I don’t do in-between cooking at home,” says Ray. “For me, it’s all or nothing. I either spend the entire day shopping for a four-course dinner, prepping and cooking,
Shawnee
living
or I throw burgers on the grill. Family time is essential to me, so I make sure whatever I do allows maximum time with Tiffany and the kids.” The Comiskey kitchen has a gleaming FiveStar professional sixburner gas stove with a charcoal grill and flat top to accommodate cooking steaks. “I grill rib eyes in here and there’s no smoke,” notes Ray. When the chef unleashes his formidable grilling skills, the stove’s powerful commercial-grade ventilation hood draws cooking odors from the kitchen so the entire neighborhood is treated to tantalizing smells wafting from the Comiskey house. “We’ve had repair people in the neighborhood actually knock on our door and ask what was cooking,” says Tiffany. The kitchen’s large granite island is designed around a massive 5-foot-square, 225-pound Boos Brothers butcher block purchased from Ambrosi Brothers in Kansas City, Missouri. It was moved from the couple’s first Shawnee home to their new residence two years ago. “The block has an end-grain design, which makes it more durable,” says Ray. “It gets plenty of use.” When Taylor, the couple’s first child, was born, Ray decided he wanted more family time. For the next year he embarked on regionalstyle training, including chefs from the Seattle, Denver and Milwaukee Capital Grille locations. During his nine years with the company—now 35 restaurants strong—Ray has collected several prestigious awards, including 2002 Outstanding Chef, 2003 Quality Control and 2005 Edge Performer for going above and beyond for customers. Ray and Kansas City native Tiffany met at the Capital Grille in 2001 and dated for two years before marrying in 2003. She was the restaurant’s sales and marketing manager; in adherence with corporate policy, the young couple had to make a decision as to who would stay with the company. “It was an obvious choice,” laughs Tiffany, who now stays at home with Taylor, soon to be 4, and young Max, 2. Tiffany is at the helm of the stove when it comes to everyday cooking. “I’m a recipe chef, and Ray doesn’t have a problem telling me how I could improve something,” she grins. “I love to bake cookies and brownies and try new things, and I make a mean roasted chicken.” Tiffany recently planned her husband’s surprise 40 th birthday party for 60 guests. “The menu featured foods Ray loved to eat growing up,” she says. “I made three kinds of chicken wings, popcorn, little smokies in barbecue sauce and nutty bars.” Highlights of the party included Taylor in her embroidered miniature Capital Grille chef’s jacket and an exquisite marzipan-sheathed birthday cake by pastry artist Nancy Stark that replicated a chef’s toque. Tiffany passed out masks bearing Ray’s face to guests so they could conceal their identity when the birthday boy walked in the door. The Comiskey refrigerator is stocked with hot sauces, salsas, fresh herbs, O’Doul’s beer, fruits, vegetables, MonaVie juices and staples for a family of four. Ray says he likes to use seasonal produce from Shawnee vendors and vegetable stands in his home cooking, much like he incorporates local farmers’ wares in his restaurant kitchen. Ray is ultimately a study of food and family. When he’s not choreographing fine cuisine at the Capital Grille, you’ll find him embracing his coveted role as husband and father—and inspired home chef, making the occasional peanut butter and jelly sandwich at the butcher block for Taylor and Max. sm
This is one of Chef Ray’s favorite marinades. “It makes a steak sing,” he says.
Bourbon Marinade
1½ cups bourbon 1 cup au jus 1 cup brown sugar 1 tablespoon Kitchen Bouquet sauce ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon black pepper
Combined all ingredients in a bowl. Add steaks, cover the bowl and marinate in refrigerator for 24 hours. Grill. Top with Spicy Pecan Butter.
Spicy Pecan Butter
½ cup toasted chopped pecans 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 2 teaspoons cumin ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper ½ cup brown sugar
Place all ingredients in bowl and stir to combine. Hold at room temperature for service. Put dollops of the butter on grilled steaks.
Shawnee
living
chicks and flicks
story by
Jaime Netzer
photography by
flick chicks
The
How one group of gal pals keeps up on cinema
sHawneemagazine
Jason Dailey
8
Kristen Doyle stopped reading for book club. While she’d always been an avid reader, she found herself showing up unprepared to meeting after meeting. “Like many moms, I’m at the point in my life where getting through a book takes longer than it used to because I always seem to fall asleep,” says the Shawnee mother, wife, freelance writer and blogger. “I was just going to the club without reading the book, which really defeated the purpose of being in a club.” So rather than continue to pursue a literary social scene, Doyle made the move to movies, starting a group called Chicks and Flicks. “It was a light bulb moment,” she said. “I realized I wasn’t reading what I liked, and I wasn’t going to see movies anymore either because of the cost of a sitter.” From left, Ashley Boehm, Kristen Doyle and Jennifer Mullinax created their own Chicks and Flicks group for moms who enjoy a good movie and a break from home.
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Shawnee
living
Tips and tricks from the Flick Chicks Interested in starting your own movie group? Use these tips to get started.
Elect one planner:
It works well to have one person be in control. In the busy life of stay-at-home or working moms, it’s convenient to have one person be the responsible party.
In lieu of heading to local theaters with their husbands, the Chicks and Flicks gals go with girlfriends. And by leaving the guys at home with the kids, they eliminate the cost of child care. But you don’t have to be a mom to join in the fun of Chicks and Flicks. The group meets every six to eight weeks, usually on a weekday to find better discounts on movies. Doyle’s favorite deal is on Sunday or Monday nights when AMC movies are just $5. A Chicks and Flicks outing usually consists of dinner at a local restaurant, a movie and then sometimes coffee afterward if the discussion spills past the lobby of the theater. And no, they don’t just pick chick flicks—so far they’ve seen Sex and the City, but also watched The Changeling and Vantage Point.
Integrate your friends: If you have several groups of friends, get them all together. You can spend quality time with all of them without spending several evenings away from your family.
Utilize Evites.com:
The free service is a lifesaver. Add group members’ e-mail addresses and send electronic invites each time. Everyone can see who is attending and you can even take polls on where people would like to eat. Plus, it’s free.
The calendar:
Meet regularly—but not too regularly. Scheduling something every six to eight weeks works well for those with busy lives.
“I realized i wasn’t reading what i liked, and i wasn’t going to see movies anymore either because of the cost of a sitter.”
sHawneemagazine
- Kristen doyle
10
The women know the benefit of a night out, and oftentimes movie conversations will continue with coffee, drinks or dinner.
Doyle quickly found other women interested in her idea. Jennifer Mullinax, a photographer and mother of four under the age of 3—including triplets—jumped at the chance to see movies. “With a movie club, I can see a movie, in addition to just getting out of the house. I swear I bet it had been three years since I’d gone to see a movie before Chicks and Flicks,” says the Shawnee resident. Ashley Boehm, also of Shawnee, regretted the lack of cinema in her life as a mom and licensed child care provider. “My husband and I used to have a standing date to go see movies every weekend,” Boehm says. “Sometimes we’d even see two in one weekend. Now I’m lucky to go to one or two new movies a year. It’s great to not watch something on DVD for once.” Boehm, a friend of Doyle’s, helped create the name Chicks and Flicks. She enjoys talking with women who work in other fields about their lives—or not. “Sometimes it’s nice just to catch up on Hollywood gossip,” she says. Movies and gossip are good bets to make any gal relax. “What I like about it is that it’s very low-key, and there’s no pressure to complete anything before going,” Doyle says. “In fact, a lot of times our best turnout is when we do it last minute.” Mullinax agrees, “I don’t have a lot of time, so I’m picky as to what I go out and do. Every time I can go to Chicks and Flicks, hands down, I’m there.” sm
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Weddings, births, big family events, hobbies, milestones, histories.
That’s what makes us a community. It’s easy to submit your stories and photos. Online: www.shawneedispatch.com/submit Fax: (913) 962-3004 Or stop by our office: 10314 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Suite 260
HELPING BUILD COMMUNITY.
The home’s
renewal
A remodeled retro-contemporary home full of color tugs at one couple’s heartstrings
Story by Gloria Gale | Photography by Jason Dailey
S
teve and Peggy Hughes have the antidote for a bad day. “All we have to do is open our eyes and look around our house,” says Peggy confidently. What unfolds is an explosion of color serving as an instant, contagious picker-upper. Vibrant hues and an open, flowing layout are hallmarks of the Hugheses’ updated Lake Quivira abode. The couple downsized from a newer home, admitting they wanted a fun, different place that their children would be excited to visit. “Some friends told us about living at Lake Quivira, so we decided to explore the area. We liked the lake community and particularly liked to golf,” says Peggy. They set their sights on a small, contemporary hillside home overlooking the lake. Steve and Peggy fell in love with the house, the view and particularly the design. “It was such a cool house with so much curb appeal,” says Peggy. The couple suspected that it was fashioned after the California architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. They acquired the 1966 blueprints and learned the house originally had four bedrooms. However, when they
The futuristic kitchen of Steve and Peggy Hughes is one of many updates found in their Lake Quivira home. The architectural style reflects influences from Frank Lloyd Wright.
The kitchen features a sunny yellow color harmonizing with white lacquer cabinets and multicolor glass tile backsplash.
moved in, the house had a single bedroom with a recreation room on the lower level. “Our house contained open interior spaces, a central chimney, a compound angle roof with a large overhang and plenty of organic architecture,” she says. The structure is placed to look as if it fades into the hill, complemented by surrounding natural elements. They wanted to maintain the integrity of the design and elements while updating the lake home with fresh décor and dramatic color. “We like to think of our home as small, mighty, fun and colorful. Most importantly, it’s convenient,” says Peggy. Inside job Although the basic design was in place, the house was in dire need of remodeling. The footprint measures
just 2,000 square feet, but the layout didn’t match the couple’s lifestyle. “Some of the major things we did were to rearrange rooms in the lower level so that the home now has three bedrooms. We brought the laundry room from the lower level and put it where a storage area off the kitchen used to reside,” says Peggy. “Every inch
Vibrant hues and an open, flowing layout are hallmarks of the Hugheses’ updated Lake Quivira abode.
of the home has been touched, including mechanical, electrical, heating. Every window has been replaced from singlepane to double-pane glass. Everything in the home is in tip-top shape.” Steve, who has been in the construction business his entire career, designed the renovation and called on good friend Bob Dinneen for structural work. “It was hard, dangerous work, and it made me very nervous. I still cannot believe what the two of them accomplished. Watching it happen was a story within itself,” says Peggy. Throughout the years of ongoing renovation, the Hugheses managed to rework nearly all of the interior spaces, right down to the studs. Because both Steve and Bob continued to work their full-time jobs, much of it was done on weekends and evenings.
opposite page The home’s position on a hill nestled among trees suggests it was built for the space. left The cozy living room is punctuated with modern furniture, spots of color and a view of the lake. below The Hugheses worked continuously on the home–after work and on the weekends–until they made the abode their own.
Throughout the years of ongoing renovation, the Hugheses managed to rework nearly all of the interior spaces, right down to the studs.
Up on the roof After the guts of the house were replaced, the roof became the most glaring problem. “It was leaking from the moment we bought the house and needed to be fixed. The problem was that no one, not even the architects and structural engineers that we consulted, could figure out how to remedy the problem,” says Peggy. “We almost gave up hope that the roofline accommodating the low pitch (a Frank Lloyd Wright signature) could be maintained.” Steve, whom Peggy refers to as “the Jack Bauer of home improvement,” approached the problem methodically, spending hours in research then building a model. His solution was to build a new roof 12 inches above the existing structure. He tore off the overhangs and installed new beams across the
above Colorful accessories and modern art pepper the home. Some items are even from Australia and Greece. right The couple maintain a whimsical spirit that first and foremost keeps them smiling.
roof, adding a few inches of slope for the new metal roof. Ask Peggy and Steve if it was worth the effort, and they’ll both give a resounding “yes.” The project was lengthy–two years in all–but they are proud of seeing it through to completion. Both the pitch of the roof and integrity of a Frank Lloyd Wright design were maintained. Colorful intention With the roofing issue resolved and the interior structure realigned, the Hugheses began reworking the décor. Decorating with their contemporary style has been a joy. “Admittedly, our furnishings, the house and our decorating style would need to be compatible. Since all rooms in the house flow into one another, we made sure to
enhance each space with complementary, clear, bright color,” says Peggy. Everywhere, color accentuates the architecture. The living room is a cool beach green, punctuated with shots of color in the burnt orange chaise, citrus green coffee table and cobalt blue Lucite chair. The kitchen features a
The couple suspected that it was fashioned after the California architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright.
sunny yellow color harmonizing with white lacquer cabinets and multicolor glass tile backsplash. “Yellow seems to be the dominant hue that flows through the house. We attribute our good mood to the yellow coupled with the polka-dot window fabric—it just makes us smile,” says Peggy. Spicy color accents the two bedrooms and office painted, respectively, in tempting shades of orange sherbet, clay and deep raspberry. Even the half bath boasts a zingy azure blue. Everywhere, accessories from colorful glass to modern metal sculpture are on display. “We don’t hesitate to give our artwork a home. Just looking at certain objects brings back vivid memories, like a glass stingray we got in Australia or glass clown we found in Greece. The house has definitely
given us a backdrop for fun decorating,” she adds. Hard work realized Steve and Peggy realize they’ve put a considerable amount of time and money into this house, confirming their love for it. When the couple entertain, which is often, they notice that people either enjoy it or don’t understand it at all. Most can’t believe how small the house is considering it seems larger thanks to the open spaces. “The house is truly ours considering the effort. It has repaid us by being such an easy house to live in,” says Peggy. “The most important thing is that our kids always want to come home, so we feel we have accomplished our goal.” sm
Ask Peggy and Steve if it was worth the effort, and they’ll both give a resounding “yes.” The project was lengthy–two years in all–but they are proud of seeing it through to completion.
The beach green living room provides cool comfort for the Hugheses and their guests.
Shawnee
businesses big bam’s burgers 5930 Nieman road (913) 962-1230
Big Bam’s:
Shawnee’s burger bonanza Old-school flavor finds favor with loyal customers
www.bigbams.com
story by
Vince Meserko
photography by
jason dailey
The people at Big Bam’s Burgers
sHawneemagazine
deliver their food with a knockout punch. The locally owned Shawnee staple serves the type of juicy, made-to-order burgers that leave you feeling like you’ve just survived 10 rounds in a heavyweight fight. The knockout burgers at Big Bam’s, and the restaurant’s alliterative name, are the brainchild of owner Joe Bac-
18
arro. His background in restaurants gave him a leg up in developing Big Bam’s from the ground up. “I started working at a restaurant when I was 15, and it never really got out of my blood,” Bacarro says. When the Shawnee space became available in the middle of 2006, he saw a chance to start his own restaurant in a community he recognizes as supportive of a stand-alone burger eatery. For nearly 20 years, Bob’s Big
left Joe Bacarro, owner of the Big Bam’s Burgers, keeps hungry customers coming back for more with fresh meat and lunch cooked to order.
right Ray Drury is one of many cooks trained in the Big Bam philosophy of genuinely good burgers.
Burger occupied the space that Big Bam’s took over.
On the menu Bacarro knew he could serve the area while ensuring the restaurant’s menu didn’t get static. “Initially it was just to make sure we touched based with the clientele here, but we’ve branched out so we can widen our market,” he says. “People can come here for more than just a great burger.”
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Shawnee
businesses Big Bam’s also serves chicken sandwiches, handbreaded pork tenderloins, Philly cheesesteaks and a grilled chicken salad for those aware that a thing known as cholesterol actually exists. Nonetheless, it’s the burgers that drive the business, and Bacarro knows every nuance and creative trick that goes into making a good one. “We always wanted to kind of push the gourmet burger—the sort of burger that you won’t be able to get anywhere else,” he says. The restaurant gets its meat from a locally owned butcher shop that prepares its own chuck—a stark contrast to most fast-food joints that use mass-produced patties. The results are immediately apparent. Big Bam’s burgers have a distinct flavor that stays trapped in the juices. The onions are fresh-chopped and placed in a swirl of mustard and other sauces. When you eat at Big Bam’s, prepare to get mustard all over. The beef patty practically dissolves the bun it sits on. “It’s an 85-15 ground chuck patty that’s never frozen. … The best place to start with a hamburger is the meat, obviously,” says Bacarro.
Unmatched Big Bam’s also differentiates itself from fast-food counterparts by way of food preparation, which is something Bacarro instills in his workers the minute they start training. “Everyone cooks the way [Bacarro] trains us to cook. Because it’s a small place, we can still add our own flavor to it,” says cook Simon Meade, who has worked at Big Bam’s since November 2008. “When you go into a McDonald’s, there’s a lot of cooks there that might know how to run a kitchen, but do they actually know how to make that chicken breast sandwich?”
Meade has learned how to cook to a customer’s individual specifications, something he was not used to doing. He says it’s important for customers to know each pork tenderloin is not going to be exactly the same each time and every chicken strip in a basket might look a little different. But they should rest assured that “it’s all done with care.” Making the food cooked-to-order is a hallmark of Big Bam’s service and evokes the feel of what Meade refers to as the “old-school burger joint” way of doing business.
Quality control It’s obvious when talking to Bacarro that he’s a bit of a burger geek, and it’s precisely that sort of passion for the industry that rubs off on customers. “I think there’s a huge difference in quality between something that’s been premade and prepped and precooked than something that goes fresh on the grill. I think the customers realize that too,” Bacarro says. According to Bacarro, his customer base chooses to support the mom-and-pop shops. “I think people appreciate the person who takes the risk, who have the passion for the business,” he says. Despite the harsh economic conditions, Bacarro hasn’t seen a dramatic decrease in the number of his daily customers. One cook mentions his amazement at how crowded the little restaurant can get during peak lunch hours. “It’s hard to compete with the big guys,” Bacarro acknowledges. “But in the same respect, you aren’t really even competing with the big guy. The market’s so huge there’s always room for a little niche here and there.” Bacarro hopes his restaurant can be that little niche for the Shawnee community for years to come. sm
a few of big bam’s burgers
Ladder 49
Bacon, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and Cancun dressing. Bacarro says this has been the most popular menu item in his restaurant since it opened. The menu suggests adding jalapeno peppers for 29 cents extra.
The AllAmerican
American cheese topped with mustard, ketchup, pickles and onions.
Carnivore’s Cravings
Two patties stacked with ham, bacon, Swiss and American cheeses and barbecue sauce.
Mushroom Mania Sautéed mushrooms smothered in Swiss cheese.
Ol’ Bleu Eyes
Fresh-ground chuck topped with a blue cheese, mayo and steak sauce.
Inside inspiration • One Shawnee home reflects the art of living
S to ry b y Ki m b erly S t ern
P h oto g ra p h y b y Ja s o n Da i ley
below Cathy and Jerry Jones hand-picked the details of their second Don Julian-crafted home. bottom right Artwork punctuates the Jones home. Sculptures, paintings and blown glass all add imaginative embellishments to the interior and exterior design.
Cath y
and
Jerry
Jones
call Shawnee home, but the world is their oyster. The couple’s stunning Shawnee residence, crafted by builder Don Julian, reflects their affinity for art, music, cooking and wine. The inviting home is a haven for the pair, who not only answer the siren call for far-flung locales but love to cozy up with the treasures of their travels. Their space is generously shared with two lucky felines, Sasha and Scratchy, who have their own screen porch to enjoy the outdoors without succumbing to wanderlust. The distinctive 6,000-square-foot, three level, four-bedroom stucco home is sophisticated and comfortable. “Our home is the culmination of a three-year odyssey,” says Jerry. “We looked for a year, found the perfect lot and held it for a year. We knew from extensive home shopping exactly what we wanted.” Dr e a m de sign The couple lived in a Julian-built home at Lakeview Estates and appreciated the quality, structural integrity and attention to detail. When it came time to build their dream home, the Joneses hired two architects and the award-winning builder, Julian, to bring their vision to fruition. The ambitious project took a year; Cathy and Jerry moved into the home in late December of 2005.
Jerry’s library and office is richly designed with cherry wood bookcases and serves as a place for relaxing or maintaining the workflow.
The main level features a great-room that boasts a gleaming Czechoslovakian handmade Petrof grand piano and picturesque treetop views from floorto-ceiling windows. Also on this floor are the spalike master suite, gourmet kitchen, dramatic formal dining room and Jerry’s library/office with rich cherry shelves. The lower level’s piece de resistance is a full-wall mural by former Shawnee artist Michael Young. Jerry’s prized wine cellar is also found here. The third floor—accessible by a four-person elevator— leads to an observation deck where Cathy, an astronomy buff, gazes at the stars and constellations through a highpowered telescope.
The kitchen opens to the hearth room where family and friends often gather.
T h e gr a n d t ou r The great-room’s undisputed centerpiece is the gleaming piano. The commanding windows defer to views of western Shawnee and a Mediterranean-influenced still life in the backyard, comprised of architectural columns and a fountain. The interior decorator, Gail Morse, notes that the windows are unobstructed by heavy treatments to capitalize on the views. “We chose cellular shades that are hidden when not in use and when lowered offer privacy and filter soft light,” she says. A custom Cathy takes piano lessons, but guests are just as likely to tinkle the ivories. “My brother, an officer at d es i g n ed wa lk - i n Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, once brought a contingent with him to dinner,” recalls Jerry. “He sat pan t ry holds t h e down and played beautifully, much to the surprise of his colleagues.” accou trements of Exquisite glass pieces the couple acquired on various trips hold court in the sun-drenched room. c oo k s , i n c l u d i n g An oversize, colorful Italian Murano vase sits on a recessed shelf with a Swedish Kosta Boda bowl sparp a s t a s , oi l s kling on the shelf below. A Steuben glass bowl perches on the mantel above the large fireplace. A century-old and bottled
condiments.
The grand piano has been the scene of impromptu playing by guests and learning ground for Cathy, who is taking lessons.
window panel from a Chinese monastery hangs on a wall and evokes the highly personal design in each room—an irresistible blend of artifacts and adventures. The hearth room extends into the kitchen and breakfast area, which serves as a favorite gathering spot for the Joneses and friends. “This was the most difficult room to design,” Jerry acknowledges. “There were many The main level elements to consider, and we wanted everything to be harmonious.” f e a t u r e s a g r e a t - r oo m Framed by the same views as the great room, custom stained t h at b oa s t s a g le a m i n g birch cabinets, a slate fireplace and Murano glass pendant lights puncC z e c h o s lova ki a n tuate the area’s design. A built-in hutch displays heirloom china that handmade Petrof belonged to Cathy’s grandmother for casual comfort. The textured grand piano and walls in a subtle palette add warmth and interest to the space; the Italpicturesque treetop ian porcelain-tile floor contributes another layer of style and substance. v i e w s f r o m f l oo r - t o -
ceiling windows.
Jerry’s prized possessions are kept in the extensive wine cellar.
A custom-designed walk-in pantry holds the accoutrements of cooks, including pastas, oils and bottled condiments. The couple chose workhorse appliances, such as a Dacor stove with a Viking hood, a Bosch dishwasher and Sub-Zero refrigerator, to accommodate everything from their weekly fish taco nights to catered dinner parties. “We like intimacy and good company,” notes Cathy. French doors off the hearth room lead to Jerry’s office, where the couple’s love of reading and his pharmaceutical/biotech consulting business combine. Floorto-ceiling cherry bookshelves are filled with volumes of best-sellers and classics; a ladder on wheels creates an authentic library ambience. Carefully selected tabletop sculptures and paintings, including one of four Young originals throughout the home, dominate the serene space. The master suite has a Zenlike quality, most notably attributed to the bedroom’s painted ceiling that at night mimics a sunset, a nod to Jerry’s obsession with lighting throughout the home. The large master bath has a travertine stone walk-in shower with glass blocks and his-andhers walk-in closets. “The suite is a quiet enclave,” says Jerry. The dining room is sparsely decorated, highlighting two uplighted David Lotton glass pieces purchased in a St. Augustine, Florida, gallery. Installed in custom wall niches that flank a buffet and the embossed grapeand-vine motif extending from the wall to the ceiling, the glass art takes center stage. Lotton, a
Entertaining is a breeze in the couple’s billiards room, complete with a colorful mural.
pi a fo
second-generation glass master, is one of the couple’s favorite artists; the wine theme celebrates Cathy and Jerry’s love of excellent vino. The lower level features an old-fashioned billiards table offset by a striking mural created by Young. It depicts a vintage street scene in downtown Shawnee, complete with a movie marquee, a bistro table set with a bottle of wine, the couple and their two cats. Comfortable theater seating in front of the large-screen television with full surround sound meets a granite-topped bar with seating designed for group entertaining. “This is where our son’s friends gather,” says Cathy. Beyond the entertainment and game room is Jerry’s pride and joy: an expansive wine cellar with a 2,000-bottle capacity that currently holds some 700 bottles the couple have purchased over the years at auction and around the world. There are three bedrooms, including a guest room, on the lower level and a fireplace. T h e l o w e r le v e l’ s But as Jerry says, “The house is a work in progress.” Indeed, the coue c e d e r e s i s ta n c e i s ple will always have another piece of art, worldly item or bit of décor to f u ll - wa ll m u ra l b y incorporate into the impressive gallery they call home. sm rmer Shawnee artist
Mi c h a e l Yo u n g .
Local
profiles purses of promise
story by
Gloria Gale photography by
jason dailey
Perfect promise sHawneemagazine
With a dash of panache, one Shawnee foundation helps restore the confidence of domestic violence victims
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Melanie Chezem doesn’t believe in accidents. “Things happen for a reason,” she says while discussing the development of Purses of Promise, a not-for-profit foundation that has turned out to be a whopping success. The founders of Purses of Promise, from left, Brooke Chiaverini, Melanie Chezem and Michelle Begemann, have encouraged charitable efforts all over the metro area to help battered women in a time of need.
Local
profiles The Shawnee resident’s start-up began quietly. “I was sitting in the doctor’s office late last year when I read an article in a magazine recounting stories from victims of domestic abuse,” says Chezem. “I kept thinking about their experiences, realizing that this was an area I wanted to investigate further. There had to be a way I could help these women move forward with their lives.”
Unlikely inspiration Chezem took stock of her skills, drawing upon her experience as an event coordinator for a local corporation. “I knew I had the management and organizational ability,” she says. The idea for Purses of Promise came about unconventionally. While Chezem was cleaning out her closet, she noticed an abundance of purses. “It dawned on me that women who are abused are often forced to abruptly leave their homes, moving into a battered women’s shelter with little more than the clothes they are wearing,” she says. “Their abusers often keep their resources, such as their purses and necessities, away from them to prevent them from fleeing.” Chezem determined that a purse—filled with everything from hand cream and cosmetics to a toothbrush and toiletries to a brush and Kleenex—would provide a tangible possession and contribute a dose of self-respect and confidence. Even adding a disposable camera so the women could photograph their children would help. The hope is that each purse will “symbolize the promise of a new beginning and the hope of a brighter tomorrow,” she says. Bouyed by enthusiasm, Chezem formulated Purses of Promise and recruited three friends from the Kansas City area—Amanda Bran-
Purses of Promise welcomes gently used purses that may have been sitting on a closet shelf for years. Also appreciated are donations of items to put in the purses. All donations are tax-deductible. The Purses of Promise website includes a list of community resources for victims of domestic violence. A list of urgent needs and contact information also is available at
www.pursesofpromise.com.
stetter, Michelle Begemann and Brooke Chiaverini—to help. They were able to launch the concept and create the foundation, which gave them the framework to ask for donations, both in-kind and monetary. As a result, every purse or toiletry collected will eventually go into the community. “We asked everyone we knew to donate purses, then spread the word to others. The grassroots marketing campaign paid off … we were flooded with purses,” says Chezem.
Bagging for a cause
sHawneemagazine
She then presented the idea to area women’s shelters: Rose Brooks Center in Kansas City, Missouri, SAFEHOME in Johnson County, Hope House in Lee’s Summit and Independence, Missouri, and New House in Kansas City, Missouri. Rose Van Hecke, Rose Brooks Center’s manager of stewardship and in-kind donations, knows the work of Chezem’s group is appreciated. “Everyone loves the purses. We have a place within our facility called Rosie’s Closet. This is where the women can basically ‘restart,’ selecting new clothing, accessories and shoes. We make the purses that are delivered from the foundation available to anyone who wants one,” she says. “I’m lost without my purse, so I know how much this means to our women. This partnership has truly been a godsend.” SAFEHOME in Johnson County echoes that sentiment. Like Rose Brooks Center, it
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Local
profiles also has a clothing closet where women can choose personal items. Amber Bourke, SAFEHOME public relations coordinator, says shelter clients typically arrive with nothing except what they’re wearing. “At the end of their stay, usually around 46 days, they are given an opportunity to pick out items from the closet, which generally includes a purse. The feedback we get is unanimous; the ladies absolutely love the purses,” she says. Equally pleased are the groups that pull together a purse donation drive and see an overwhelming response. When two Jazzercise locations solicited donations in December, the response was immediate. Purses and more purses filled their locations, and those purses in turn filled Chezem’s SUV. The biggest challenge for Chezem is finding enough items to fill the bags. “The products are an ongoing need, so we’re always working on this aspect,” she says.
The hope is that each purse will “symbolize the promise of a new beginning and the hope of a brighter tomorrow.” - Melanie Chezem
Additional support Since its inception, the project has taken on a life of its own and the public’s generosity is overwhelming. “Even my 5-year-old daughter doesn’t hesitate to help fill the purses that collect in our basement,” she says. Amanda Branstetter, the tech-savvy partner for the project, says, “I continue to be amazed by the outpouring of donations and support. I’m happy to be able to give back to the community.” Every day, Chezem fields inquiries from individuals and groups that want to help. “People are ready and willing to step forward when they find a cause that touches them. We are deeply appreciative to those that are helping making a difference, one purse at a time.” sm
Both SAFEHOME and Rose Brooks Center offer services and shelter for victims of domestic violence.
SAFEHOME www.safehome-ks.org
SAFEHOME Golf Tournament
Kenny Thomas Olathe Toyota and Lee Jeans present SAFEHOME’s 16th Annual Golf Tournament at Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate on Monday, August 3. The entry fee is $200 per player if registered before July 3 or $250 after that date.
SAFEHOME’s Wish list includes: • New swimsuits for boys and girls • Beach towels and sunblock • Sprinkler, pool and swim toys (no water guns) • Juice boxes • New underwear for women and children • Paper products, diapers, toilet paper, Kleenex and paper towels
• Used cell phones
Rose Brooks Center www.rosebrooks.org Beauty in Flight Fashion Show to support the work of Rose Brooks Center
Date: Thursday, September 10 Location: Park Place Shops, 117th Street and Nall Avenue, Leawood 6 p.m.: Patrons reception 7 p.m.: Doors open to all guests with music, cash bar and raffle ticket sales for items provided by the boutiques. 7:30 p.m.: Showtime featuring 12-15 boutiques
Local
profiles kale van leeuwen
story by
Vince Meserko photography provided by
kale van leeuwen
From small town
to cowtown
sHawneemagazine
The art of Kale Van Leeuwen
32
St. Paul shouldn’t seem like an epicenter for the arts. The small farming town in southeast Kansas has a population of 646, a couple of marginally historic churches and an American Indian mission infirmary that has been converted into a bed-and-breakfast. That’s about it.
Shawnee artist Kale Van Leeuwen grew up in a small town among creative influences. Today the artist is taking Kansas City by storm. Portrait by Jason Dailey
Local
profiles
It would seem like a place where the budding artist might go unnoticed or underappreciated—the sort of place where teens count the minutes until they can escape the tedium. For artist Kale Van Leeuwen, however, small-town living proved unexpectedly beneficial because “sticking out like a sore thumb” brought rewards rather than consternation. “When your [graduating] class is only 25 people, there’s not going to be as many people that are good, or like art,” says Van Leeuwen, a 29-year-old Shawnee artist and graphic designer who grew up in St. Paul. Van Leeuwen calls it a town primarily interested in sports, so those interested in art stood out in a good way. “[Artists] have the tendency to get a little more attention,” says Van
Leeuwen, who was able to receive oneon-one instruction that might not be possible at a larger high school. It gave him the opportunity to work on projects with individualized help from an art teacher, whom he’d known since elementary school. It was the kind of specialized attention that kept Van Leeuwen from losing a passion that started early. “By probably about second grade, art was the only thing I had an interest in. Going all through school I kind of just did all the other classes, but art was really the only thing I liked,” Van Leeuwen says. Out of high school he received an arts scholarship to Neosho County Community College and later moved on to Pittsburg State University, where he graduated in 2003. Eventually Van
Leeuwen and his wife, Crystal, decided Pittsburg’s artistic opportunities were too limiting, so they made the move to the Kansas City area in 2005. That roughly coincided with the ascendancy of a reinvigorated Kansas City arts scene. “There are at least twice as many galleries now as there were then,” he says. “There are a lot more opportunities where, if you’re an artist and you market yourself well, you shouldn’t have that hard of a time finding space and an audience.” Van Leeuwen credits his marketing skills as one of the reasons he’s found success in Kansas City. One of his pieces was on display during April at multiple downtown banks as part of a “Cultures Without Borders” traveling group show. He is also one of the featured artists at the new 1800 Gallery in Kansas City, Missouri. Owner David Teeman was immediately drawn to Van Leeuwen’s art. “His work has fabulous appeal to the eye, so, in my estimation, he’s potentially a very upcoming star in the world of art,” Teeman says. He’s impressed with how often Van Leeuwen’s art is on display, something he says is difficult for an artist to accomplish. Van Leeuwen estimates he spends a few hours almost every night working on projects. Currently he is creating what he calls “mixed-media paintings”
sHawneemagazine
left In Front of The Door above The Glowing Horse
33
FAR left Bernadette LEFT Hector OPPOSITE PAGE
Kansas City in The Rain
that involve photographs he’s taken, usually of city lights or mannequins. The photographs are manipulated in the computer program Adobe Photoshop and collaged and painted to produce an oil paint look. He moves deftly among these mediums while also treading the delicate line between realistic and abstract art. “A lot of my paintings … are realistic, but they are done in an abstract way where you don’t see every exact detail, but you can still tell what they are,” he says. “Yeah, anyone can paint abstractly, but you still have to know your colors, your composition.” Composition fundamentals and coloration technique are what Teeman points to as Van Leeuwen’s greatest strengths. “He treats his collages with an absolutely brilliant eye for color. This kid knows how to put color to canvas and paper,” he says. Van Leeuwen also has been able to find artistic subjects that interest him rather than force a piece of art onto an unappealing subject. Examples include his mannequin paintings and Chinese horses series that are especially appealing to the common gallery visitor. “He covers a very broad base of subject matter yet keeps the Kale Van Leeuwen touch on all of it. When you see it, you know it’s his work,” says Teeman. For Van Leeuwen, forming a relationship with each piece is at the heart of what makes being an artist gratifying. “If it doesn’t connect to you in some way, there’s really no point to it,” Van Leeuwen says. “This personal connection applies to pieces you purchase, pieces you observe or pieces you create yourself.” sm
Local
profiles women’s outdoor recreation
story by
Jaime Netzer
photography by
Tim Andersen
We continue our series of articles focusing on community support groups in Shawnee. These organizations offer encouragement, friendship and support in times of hardship or happiness. Our second installment focuses on the Women’s Outdoor Recreation group.
Woman vs. wild sHawneemagazine
Local women prove themselves in the great outdoors
36
Ladies are talking about the Women’s Outdoor Recreation group on MeetUp.com.
The Women’s Outdoor Recreation group embarks on a hike at Shawnee Mission Park.
Local
profiles “Great ladies, great outdoor fun.” “Very nice and laid back group. Mature women.” “No pressure to be ‘as good as the boys!’ A friendly, welcoming atmosphere.” These comments express a shared confidence in a specific equation: Take women of all ages and backgrounds, introduce them to group outdoor activities and watch confidence, support and happiness burgeon. The group is the brainchild of Julie Cirlincuina, a Shawnee resident and author of the Kansas Outdoor Treasures guidebook. Shortly after the book’s publication, Cirlincuina began Women’s Outdoor Recreation with the aim of visiting some of the places she had written about—but with no men allowed. “There was already a local hiking club, and I knew I wanted to do something different, so I went with the women angle,” she says. “I didn’t know how much interest there would be, so I started a group at MeetUp.com. I was surprised to get about 100 members in the first month.” So far, participants have attended beginning kayaking sessions, learned rock-climbing skills and hiked in locations all over northeast Kansas. Not every member attends every event; some events have a small participation fee while others are free. Cirlincuina grew up with a father who was a college professor. His summers off allowed the family to enjoy the outdoors for weeks at a time, while camping, river rafting and canoeing.
“You go to college, and you go to work and forget all about that stuff,” she says. “When I turned 40, I had a girlfriend who had moved out to Salt Lake City. So we went to check out the national parks in Utah, the canyon lands and arches. After I saw those, I set a personal goal to go see all of the national parks, joined the Kansas City Outdoor Club and started doing local things like putting together trips and leading outings.” Since its launch in September 2008, Women’s Outdoor Recreation has attracted 300 members. Cirlincuina has a few theories on the group’s success. “It’s a boost in confidence,” she says. “You’ve got a support group there to give you advice and cheer you on. You’ve got the camaraderie that comes with trying something new and succeeding.” Nancy Wacker, Shawnee resident and director of the St. Joseph Early Education Center, has attended Women’s Outdoor Recreation events since she learned about the group this winter. She thinks the social benefits are as important as the physical or emotional advantage. “You’re able to talk to these other women when you’re hiking through the woods,” says Wacker. “That’s been a left Julie Cirlincuina, creator of Women’s Outdoor Recreation, has seen the group grow in just one year, giving women the opportunity to relax and challenge themselves outside. BELLOW Participants of Women’s Outdoor Recreation agree that there is a benefit to making friendship and getting outdoors together.
great aspect, and one of the reasons so many women have joined the group.” With little surprise, hikes through the woods often lead to more than just small talk among women. “There are some women who are going through rough times—either they’re in a divorce or they’re just starting out on their own—and this is an opportunity to get out doing something positive for themselves, but with other women,” Wacker says. Cirlincuina adds, “Some members are newly divorced or lost a loved one and are finding themselves without the half that usually took care of the logistics, planning and physical activity. The camaraderie and the encouragement are important to us all. The group is not meant to be a forum for therapy, but we could all use a shot of confidence or a boost of adrenaline to improve our outlook on life.” Even for those women not struggling with difficult issues, Wacker says Women’s Outdoor Recreation provides encouragement. “It gives you a lot more joy in your life to know that you can experience nature and everything this world has to offer you,” she says. “To be with this group of women doing things outdoors, it’s just great for the spirit.” sm
www.meetup.com/ outdoor-women
sHawneemagazine
37
Health &
fitness story by
Ryan Brown
cancer
calls
photography by
Jason Dailey
Local charity Cells for Cells answers the need for cancer fundraising
Even the smallest idea can create a positive influence in someone’s life, a concept Cells for Cells knows well.
sHawneemagazine
38
Like the Extreme Makeover television shows, Cells for Cells Extreme Medical Makeover asked individuals to submit their deserving stories to the organization for a chance to receive extra support.
The for-profit organization operates out of Shawnee, working to recycle old cell phones and donate the proceeds to cancer-related charities. Created in 2007 by Jason Clements of Shawnee and Aaron Randel of Basehor, Cells for Cells has raised thousands of dollars for cancer research. “Aaron and I knew each other in the past, and we both dealt a lot with [information technology] people,” says Clements. “There was a time where the IT people were upgrading their cell phones and throwing away their old phones. Recycling the phones wasn’t that big of deal—and there was an idea of what we could do.” Parts and batteries from the phones are salvaged. Phone companies pay for the refurbished parts, which are used to make new phones or serve as replacement parts. The two brainstormed how to use the phones before Randel suggested an innovative idea. “Aaron asked me how much I knew about cause marketing, and my answer was simple: zero. But the concept is actually pretty basic,” Clements says. “Cause marketing is where a company promotes itself by joining with a cause. We could start a recycling program with old cell phones.” After the idea was born, the partners faced another issue: What cause should they support? Clements and Randel each had lost a family member to cancer, so they investigated their options to support the battle against the disease. “We happened to have a good friend at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and we started networking with them and floated them an idea,” says Clements. “If we raise money for your society by these recycling pro-
Jason Clements, co-creator of Cells for Cells, has developed a charitable presence for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through the recycling of cell phones.
Health &
fitness
Conducting a cell phone drive
Dr. Michelle Robin of Your Wellness Connection in Shawnee has teamed with Cells for Cells to provide Extreme Medical Makeovers.
Organizing a cell phone drive is a simple process but can offer great benefits. “Most people just send out an e-mail to their company and ask them to bring in their old phones,” says Jason Clements, co-founder of Cells for Cells. “Others just put a box with a sign in the break room or by the front desk asking for donations. People are usually willing to be more charitable because you’re not asking for a straight-out monetary donation.” Once the phones have been collected, they are shipped to Cells for Cells, which will have the phones processed and recycled. With a donation of 10 or more phones, Cells for Cells can offer free shipping via Federal Express. For smaller donations, Clements suggests joining with another Cells for Cells supporter or dropping the phones at a nearby Leukemia and Lymphoma Society office. You can find the nearest office at www.lls.org.
Cells for Cells FAQs • • • •
You can donate any cell phone, Treo or Blackberry device. The phones can be in any condition— brand new to broken. Cells for Cells accepts phone chargers and phone batteries too. A minimum donation of 10 phones is requested in order to keep shipping costs down.
www.cellsforcells.com
sHawneemagazine
posals and donate some of the proceeds to your organization, would that be OK?” The answer was yes, and Cells for Cells was born. The goal: raise $1 million for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “We figured that each phone that was recycled would bring in an average of $1,” says Clements. “So that meant we had to collect a million phones to reach our goal.” In 2007, Cells for Cells collected 7,924 phones and rounded up another 5,520 in 2008. However, the company raised approximately the same amount of money each year. “The first two years, we raised $20,000,” says Clements. “We had set ourselves this huge, gigantic goal, and we weren’t sure exactly how we were going to get to it. So we broke it down.” Clements and Randel realized they needed to make some adjustments. “We were totally unhappy with our growth,” says Clements. “So we asked, ‘How can we push ourselves?’” They began a promotion to aid in their fundraising efforts with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “Aaron and I thought about it and realized that we could make an immediate impact on someone’s life,” says Clements. “The money we were raising was going into the ‘Patient A’ funds and was going to someone who deserved and needed the money right away. But we wanted to know what happened next to those people. So we started the Extreme Medical Makeover.” Like the Extreme Makeover television shows, Cells for Cells Extreme Medical Makeover asked individuals to submit their deserving stories to the organization for a chance to receive extra support. The organization partnered with Your Wellness Connection of Shawnee to provide consulting services. Dr. Michelle Robin, the chief wellness officer, says the partnership was a natural match. “We were actually introduced to Cells for Cells through our attorney,” says Robin. The business wanted to connect with others who were passionate about spreading the message of wellness. “Overall wellness is about changing lifestyles,” she says. “We got a handful of applicants the first time,” says Clements of the promotion. “Each one was just as gut-wrenching as the next. It
was difficult to choose who would win, but we knew that whoever we picked was certainly deserving.” Cells for Cells chose the story of Dawn and Jeff Wooten from Wichita as their initial winner. The Wooten family received a $500 cash donation from Cells for Cells and an additional $500 donation in services and consulting from Your Wellness Connection for Jeff, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, cancer of plasma cells, at age 37. “It was huge. Jason said it wasn’t very much, but it was a huge impact on our family,” says Dawn. “We were able to knock off five months of payments of bills with the donation. It’s easy to focus on the hopelessness of the situation, but in the meantime, we live day to day. Every night we go to bed, we consider it a good day.” After the initial success of the Extreme Medical Makeover, Clements says Cells for Cells will increase its donation to $1,000. Robin and Your Wellness Connection will match Cells for Cells with an additional $1,000 in wellness services. “There’s a business concept that says ‘Big goals have little competition,’” says Clements. “What can we do that hasn’t been done? How can we make a difference in someone’s life? If we don’t make it to our goal (of $1 million), then we don’t make it. But we know that we helped make someone’s life a little easier.” sm
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Health &
fitness story by
Kimberly Stern
photography by
Tim Andersen
Living the good
life
Exercise at 50 Plus is an investment in a balanced and healthy life
sHawneemagazine
Mark Twain once said, “I’m pushing 60. That’s enough exercise for me.” But a large part of today’s older, health-crazed society doesn’t prescribe to Twain’s notion of being sedentary.
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For more information on the 50+ program and events offered by the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, visit www.jcprd.com. Individuals may purchase punch cards available in five- ($21), 10($42) and 20-visit ($83) increments that are accepted at all facilities.
Local gym memberships are at an all-time high, even in challenging economic times. Health food, organic products and exercise DVDs are brisk sellers. There are boot camps, running clubs, bicycling groups and urban walking enthusiasts. Designers and marketers produce a dizzying spectrum of active wear and exercise accessories to meet consumer demand. So what gives? According to Sara Thompson, director of the 50 Plus Program for the Johnson County Park and Recreation District (JCPRD), people realize their health is a precious and sometimes irreplaceable commodity. “Let’s face it,” Thompson says. “If you have your health, you have everything. If you don’t, you can’t participate in life.” Since 1971 the JCPRD 50 Plus Program has been the area’s leading provider of recreation and leisure activities for active adults. The department’s mission reflects the importance of maintaining a lifestyle punctuated with not just exercise but other activities essential for a wellbalanced individual. “We serve the community as a progressive leader in quality recreation, leisure and learning opportunities for active adults,” says Thompson. A definite trend is people seeking physical fitness in order to achieve several goals: to feel better physically and emotionally, and improve their self-image and esteem. According to Thompson, a boomer-centric topic is health information—and the more the better. “They
Betty and Tom Hammond participate in one of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District 50 Plus dance classes.
Charles Latimer dances with Virginia Berberied. The various 50 Plus activities offered by JCPRD include woodworking, laptop classes, games and exercise classes.
know that just like a car, their bodies will last longer with proper maintenance,” she says.
Convenience The JCPRD 50 Plus program offers classes ranging from weight training to stretching and cardiovascular regiments to the Chinese martial art of tai chi. A variety of dance classes like tap, belly, swing and ballroom give participants terrific exercise and the opportunity to socialize with peers. Also included in the course catalog are yoga and a combination of yoga and Pilates sessions. “The Yoga Balance class offered at the Blue Valley satellite location is a hit,” says Thompson. “At Roeland Park we have a well-attended Jumpstart Cardio class. And our Wii classes, something new for the JCPRD, are starting to attract the attention of our demographic.” In addition to traditional exercise offerings, JCPRD has aquatics and adventure walk programs for the over-50 set. The walking concept draws a large crowd eager to enjoy outdoor exercise. “We select trails and parks around the area conducive to this activity,” says Thompson. “We know the mileage and condition of the paths, so participants enjoy a good workout.”
Making improvements
50 Plus centers and clubs Mill Creek Center
311 E. Park, Suite A, Olathe (913) 782-1878
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday
Matt Ross Community Center 8101 Marty, Overland Park (913) 642-6410
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday
Roeland Park Community Center 4850 Rosewood, Roeland Park (913) 236-4343
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday
Antioch Park – 50 Plus Office 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam (913) 236-1246
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday
Shawnee Mission Park 7900 Renner Road
sHawneemagazine
This year marked the 14th annual In-Step Shape Walk in late May and the second year for a 10-week walking program in conjunction with the national AARP program. “We sponsor a kickoff party where people are teamed with a leader,” says Thompson. “Each week we have touchpoints—speakers that addresses topics such as tips on shoes, different medications that interact with the sun, chiropractors and other pertinent subjects.” To round out the department’s mission statement, the JCPRD stages five annual countywide special events, such as intergenera-
tional Paws in the Park program, a one-mile walk/ jog with pets in scenic Shawnee Mission Park. The Roeland Park and Matt Ross centers also have tea dances twice weekly, and a computer lab at the Olathe facility serves people interested in honing their skills. Satellite classes are offered at the state-of-theart Athletic Training Center in Merriam. “This is a great option for Shawnee residents to participate in the program,” says Thompson. A benefit of the JCPRD program is the punch card system, which allows enrolled students to attend fitness classes at various locations to fit their schedule. “If you can’t always make it to the Merriam facility, you have the option of visiting other classes in other locales,” says Thompson. “This allows great flexibility to accommodate busy lives.” Although Mark Twain didn’t make exercise a part of a balanced and healthy life, Thompson believes people choosing an active lifestyle are rewarded with the opportunity to embrace an inner calm. “Exercise is like the proverbial ‘apple a day’ mind-set,” she says. “It helps in so many areas of a happy and productive life.” sm
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Q& A with
Gay Clemenson
Why do you think it is important to have a Farmer’s Market in Shawnee?
I think that it’s a way for people to connect with their agricultural past. … It was common for everybody to have their own garden up into the 1950s, but now we get our groceries for the most part in stores and we are even increasingly eating out. Having that opportunity to actually see food before it’s cooked and have it sold to you by the person who grew it—that’s a wonderful opportunity.
Shawnee Town museum director, Farmer’s Market
sHawneemagazine
Gay Clemenson, Shawnee Town museum director, has a special job overseeing the Farmer’s Market. Incorporated with Shawnee Town, the market’s operations fall under Clemenson’s duties, and she couldn’t enjoy the opportunities more. “If you look around the Midwest and you look around the metropolitan area and you look around Kansas City, obviously this is an area that things grow,” she says. Clemenson has been involved with the city for four years and moved to the area a year ago. “I direct the management of the Farmer’s Market as well as the Town Hall rental facility and the museum,” she says. “We provide a market supervisor each Saturday to set up the signs and collect the vendor fees. The market is a seasonal market at this time. It’s only open on Saturdays from May to October.”
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On average, how many stands or vendors do you have?
During the peak season, we could have 30. … It’s not just growers. We have vendors who are making things—crafts, artists, plants. It isn’t just produce. Why is Shawnee special to you?
I appreciate that there’s a lot of interest in community history and a lot of enthusiasm for helping make things happen here. [There’s] a lot of support for volunteerism. Tell us about plans for the market.
Perhaps the biggest future plans that we have is to move the market onto the park in Shawnee Town. Right now it’s in the parking lot of City Hall. It’s an excellent location and it’s a very popular market. What makes the Shawnee Farmer’s Market special?
A year ago the citizens ranked the Farmer’s Market as the second most utilized Parks and Recreation facility. The most used was the walking, hiking and biking trails, but Farmer’s Market came second ahead of swimming pools, playgrounds and soccer fields. You know, I think it’s special for the community, even in terms of how many of the households had a need for it. Do you have a go-to vendor?
I do have a go-to vendor. When I moved to Shawnee, I lived very close to downtown. I can walk to the market, so I frequent the market, especially in July and August. I like to see the fresh produce and visit with the farmers and the neighbors.
If you had to choose one, which would it be and why: fresh flowers, ripe tomatoes, corn on the cob or peaches?
Oh, it would have to be peaches, because I can’t grow them [laughter]. I usually have tomatoes and of course flowers, and I can pick the corn. But peaches—my hat goes off to anybody who can grow peaches. So you have your own garden?
I do, yes!
Why do you feel Shawnee Town is the best for the Market?
It will allow us to connect to people, to their past, to their history, and make them think about what they can learn from the way we used to live. … It lets you know what’s important about your heritage–what’s important about Shawnee–and it helps build Shawnee Town. sm The Shawnee Farmer’s Market does not require a yearlong contract for vendors. Saturday vendor fees are $5.
Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Katy Ibsen.
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For the
family
a night with the family
story by
Kim Antisdel
photography by
Tim Andersen
D
uring these summer nights, parents know kids’ energy has no chance of winding down before 10 p.m.—if they’re lucky. The fortunate side of late sunsets is the opportunity for evening fun with the entire family. Unfortunately, many families find organizing evening activities to be a bit of a challenge. With pool parties and summer camps to occupy kids during the day, is there anything left to do when evening arrives? You bet. Prepare to stretch a summer night and dollar as far as they can go in Shawnee.
Dinner is on them No parent wants to slave over a hot stove after a long day at the office, especially in August. But going
All in the family
sHawneemagazine
Get the gang out for some fun this summer
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out for grub every night can put a big dent in anyone’s budget. Fortunately, several restaurants in Shawnee are opening their doors to families this summer and letting the kids munch for (nearly) free. No-fuss Italian at Fazoli’s offers free dinner to kids every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Little ones also receive a coloring sheet or small craft (entertainment) while they enjoy their dinner. Good food combined with creativity turns dinner into an interactive experience rather than a quick run to fill tummies. “Kids love to come here and eat and do crafts. We have one member of the staff out in the restaurant with the kids to help and watch them create,” explains manager Teddy Keener of Fazoli’s dinnertime activities. Moe’s Southwest Grill gives kids half-off dinner every Sunday night, and Planet Sub offers a free quarter-sub kids meal with the purchase of an adult meal from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays. After dinner there will still be plenty of daylight left, so take the family to Herman Laird Park at Johnson Drive and Cody Street in Shawnee Town. Let the children tackle the jungle gym or play a quick game of tag to burn off extra energy from dinner. By the time the evening ends, the kids won’t be the only ones who are ready to hit the hay.
The bike path in Shawnee Mission Park attracts, from left, Rachel Shivers, Lucas Shivers and Kobie Curtis.
For the
family
Batter up and happy trails Playing games with your family can be a great way to retain a strong bond and create lasting memories this summer. Take the whole gang over to any one of Shawnee’s baseball fields listed on the Johnson County Park and Recreation District website. Try your hand (or foot) at a little kickball with friends and neighbors on the field. For only $5.25, Shawnee baseball fields can be rented for 1½-hour increments up to twice a week. Make your reservations in advance, because the baseball fields are in high demand and reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. If batting or kickball isn’t your idea of a great time, dust off the tires on your family’s fleet of trusty bicycles. Eric Ely, recreation specialist for the city of Shawnee, is proud of the city’s bike trails. “Shawnee has won national awards for its involvement in the biking community,” he says. The Shawnee Bicycle and Recreational Trail master plan was created to increase the opportunities for outdoor physical activity in the community. Bike facilities offer a fun and free way for individuals and families in the area to get outside—and get some exercise. Many families don’t even have to drive across town to pick up a trail; it may be just down the street.
Sing along
Fazoli’s
6345 Quivira Road (913) 962-5814
Moe’s Southwest Grill 22235 W. 66th St. (913) 441-2533
Planet Sub
7409 Quivira Road (913) 248-9955
Johnson County Park and Recreation District 913-831-3355 www.jcprd.com
City of Shawnee www.cityofshawnee.org
What’s summer without a rockin’ good time? The City of Shawnee Concert Series is the perfect—free—antidote for those nights when you want to kick back and groove to the sounds of summer. Get a blanket or grab some lawn chairs and head to various locations on July 10 and 24 and August 7 for great concerts from local artists. All shows are family approved with great vocals, guitars and drums. “The band BaliRoot is coming on July 10, and they play songs everyone knows,” explains Tonya Lecuru, director of the Shawnee Civic Center. “Families can bring the whole crew or even have a neighborhood party to participate in this community event.” Armed with a cooler of cold drinks and a few snacks, your summer concert night is sure to be a success.
Park Lanes
7701 Renner Road (913) 248-1110 www.parklaneskc.com
Just down the lane
Jake DeBauge and his mom Kerry practice tennis together at Shawnee Mission Park.
sHawneemagazine
When the blazes of summer set in, going outdoors can turn dreadful instead of delightful. Finding anywhere to beat the heat becomes a top priority. Park Lanes offers activities for all ages. During the summer kids can bowl two free games from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the week; bowlers must sign up in advance. To wind down the weekend, all games and shoes are just $1.99 per person from 7 to 10 on Sunday nights. Take advantage of Shawnee’s activities and family-oriented fun this summer. The kids will thank you. sm
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Get
away fredericksburg
story by
Gloria Gale
Photography courtesy of
Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
You may exclaim,
“This can’t be Texas” as you explore
sHawneemagazine
Fredericksburg, cradled in the rolling Texas Hill Country. In contrast to the fast pace of its nearest neighbors, San Antonio and Austin, this place brims with laid-back, small-town charm. From the moment you begin your weekend journey, Fredericksburg’s sturdy German heritage is apparent. You can immediately sense the Hill Country hospitality from the thriving marketplace along 3.5-mile Main Street to rows of tidy, native Sunday houses—all legacies to the area’s 19th century Old World traditions.
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Enchanted Rock is a popular hiking destination amid the vineyards and Hill Country in Fredericksburg, Texas.
Head for
the hills
Dust off the glitz from the Lone Star metros— an oasis of comfort awaits in the heart of Texas Friday 1 p.m. Americana on parade Your adventure begins on the way to Fredericksburg. Just to the east lies Johnson City, where the Hill Country’s native son, Lyndon Baines Johnson, was raised. Tour his 1901 FolkVictorian style boyhood home, then follow the Pedernales River another 13 miles to the LBJ National Historical Park. Visit the one-room schoolhouse, family cemetery and original farmhouse that came to be known as the Texas White House when Johnson was president. Before stopping in Fredericksburg, sidestep to Luckenbach. This tiny town, just a 10-minute drive away, is pure country—something Willie, Waylon and the boys crooned about
in l977. Established as a trading post in 1849, Luckenbach hosts one of Texas’ authentic vintage dance halls, a unique general store and live music venue. Chow down on some Texas barbecue and head over to the outdoor Picker Circle, where everybody becomes somebody.
5 p.m. Sip and sup As the dusk settles along U.S. Highway 290, an area reminiscent of Italy and France’s wine region emerges in Hill Country. Here’s your chance to sample from the vineyards that are making Texas a premier wine destination in America. Among the nine local wineries, try Grape Creek Vineyard, Pedernales Cellars, Becker Vineyards and Torre di Pietra Winery.
Get
away Now that you’re back in town, complement your spirited tasting with a sumptuous gourmet meal at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm. Chef Asa Thornton will craft a handsome, Texas-size feast in an engaging farmhouse setting. When you’re finished, amble over to the gift shop or wander among the lush herb beds before turning in. Fredericksburg offers unique guesthouse accommodations of log cabins, stone cottages, quaint Sunday houses and numerous bedand-breakfasts.
Saturday 9 a.m. Up and at ’em
encouraged to dine under the stars and watch the koi fish swimming in the impressive water garden.
Sunday 10 a.m. Proudly we hail A must-see is the National Museum of the Pacific War complex. Impressively mounted in the 7,000-square-foot structure is a detailed and powerful recounting of World War II battles from Pearl Harbor to Guadalcanal. Be sure to visit the Japanese Garden of Peace, Plaza of Presidents and Memorial Courtyard. sm
After a steaming cup of joe at a local java shop, head for a trek up Enchanted Rock, about 15 miles north of town. Steeped in Indian lore, this solid dome of pink granite provides an exhilarating hike capped by panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country.
12 p.m. Local lesson
The fields of flowers and vineyards create a beautiful backdrop in the Texas Hill Country.
Back in town, it’s time to indulge your taste buds with a lesson. Carol Seminara and husband Joe Houde design a culinary class of menu ideas, samples and wine tastings. Because the classes are held at Fischer & Wieser’s das Peach Haus store and orchard, be sure to taste the famous peaches.
2 p.m. Eye Candy Lunch in Fredericksburg isn’t complete without authentic German fare, and Main Street’s Auslander Restaurant and Biergarten and Der Lindenbaum are hometown favorites. Save room for an enticing dessert at Chocolat or Fredericksburg Pie Company, both decadent. After a hearty lunch, mingle with the blooms—millions of them. Wildseed Farms is only seven miles east of town. This nature lover’s paradise features 200 acres of flowering fields surrounded by walking trails displaying vivid gardens and nursery stock. Sit in the meadow bursting with bluebonnets and poppies, then visit the enchanting 3,000-square-foot butterfly exhibit.
4 p.m. Culture anyone? If you’re still inclined, take a guided walking tour through Fredericksburg’s National Historic District. The German pioneer history unfolds at the city’s Marktplatz. Here Hill County folklore and architecture are on display at Vereins Kirche Museum. Because you’re already on Main Street, keep strolling and slip into galleries, museums and specialty shops.
Residents in Fredericksburg proudly tout their German heritage. Many of the vintage guest homes are built from limestone, dug from the shallow earth. Cotton Gin Village has seven authentic reconstructed log cabins for lodging. Guests at the gourmet Cabernet Grill restaurant are
Luckenbach, Texas www.luckenbachtexas.com Texas Hill Country Wine www.texashillcountrywine.com Enchanted Rock State Natural Area www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/enchantd/ Fredericksburg Herb Farm www.fredericksburgherbfarm.com Fischer & Wieser’s das Peach Haus www.jelly.com Wildseed Farms www.wildseedfarms.com Cotton Gin Village and Cabernet Grill www.cabernetgrill.com National Museum of the Pacific War www.nimitz-museum.org
sHawneemagazine
8 p.m. Step back in time
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park www.nps.gov/lyjo/
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June - Sept 09 June 20
Garden Party at Shawnee Town.
Participate in the third annual Garden Party, where girls can bring their favorite dolls for an old-fashioned afternoon of lemonade and teacakes, a garden tour, craft project and doll parade. For more information, call (913) 248-2360.
June 27-28
The Great American Family Campout.
Spend the night under the stars at Shawnee Mission Park, where each family will receive passes to the Shawnee Mission Park Beach and Pedal Boat Rental. You will also receive tickets to the Theatre in the Park’s production of High School Musical. Camp setup begins at 2 p.m. For more information, visit http:// jcprd.com/special_ events/campout.cfm.
June 28-July 5 Flags for Freedom.
This event is organized by residents and business owners who partner with the Shawnee Downtown Business Association. Nieman Road from 55th Street to Shawnee Mission Parkway will become a sea of red, white and blue in honor of the Fourth of July.
July 2
Independence Day 1904. Show your
patriotism by visiting the Lanesfield School, where visitors can see how the nation celebrated its independence in 1904. This free event is open to all ages. The museum will be closed July 4. 1 p.m.- 5 p.m., 18745 S. Dillie Road, Edgerton. (913) 893-6645. www. jocomuseum.org.
BEST BETS
August 11
Jalopies & Roadsters: Autos of the 1920s. Get
a close-up look at a 1920s Model A as Jim Spawn with the Model A Ford Club of America talks about cars from the 1920s. Town Hall at Shawnee Town. 7 p.m. (913) 248-2360.
July 12
Shawnee Mission Triathlon. The 25th
Annual Shawnee Mission Triathlon regular course consists of a 0.62-mile swim, 18-mile bike ride and 4.5-mile run in Shawnee Mission Park. Event begins at 7 a.m. (913) 236-1231. http://jcprd. com/special_events/ smp_triathlon.cfm
August 30
Tour de Shawnee.
Annual bike ride throughout Shawnee. Riders can choose from a 12-mile, 27-mile or 47-mile route. The event benefits the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. (913) 631-5200. www. kansascyclist.com/ events/TourDeShawnee. html.
July 14
Rhythm Room Quartet. Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy music from the ’20s and ’30s. Town Hall at Shawnee Town. 7 p.m. (913) 248-2360.
September 12
July 17-19, 23-26
The Wedding Singer at the Theatre in the Park. For more than 30 years, Theatre in the Park has brought the best familyfriendly Broadway-style musicals to Shawnee Mission Park. Tickets required; gates open at 7:30 p.m. 7710 Renner Road. (913) 312-8841.
Olathe Medical Center Women’s Triathlon at Kill Creek. The second
annual Olathe Medical Center Women’s Triathlon consists of a 0.31-mile swim, 10.6-mile bike ride and 2.6-mile run. 7:30 a.m. at Kill Creek Park. (913) 236-1231. http:// jcprd.com/special_ events/omc_triathlon. cfm.
July 25
Rock-n-Row Cardboard Boat Regatta. Join
family, friends or co-workers to build a cardboard boat on-site with provided supplies and then race your boat on a 200-yard course at Shawnee Mission Park Beach. Event begins at 9 a.m. To register, call (913) 236-1269.
All events are subject to change.
E-mail your upcoming events for the calendar to shawneemagazine@sunflowerpub.com