winter 2009/10
sHawnee People, places and style defined
magazine
Balancing acts at Pinnacle Gymnastics $3.00
One home’s Mastering Tuscan the guitar escape at 15
Paulo and Bill’s tasty history
Dear
Reader
This winter we are embarking on the unpredictable side of Shawnee.
Katy
editor
winter 09/10
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 Carolyn Glade Dvorak Gloria Gale Vince Meserko Jaime Netzer Kimberly J. Stern Coordinator Faryle Scott
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Subscriptions $22 (tax included) 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
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While I would like to say I planned it this way, I think subconsciously I was just ready to feature a few of our more unexpected stories and subjects. These range from deep-fried Barbie dolls to inked ladies proud of their image, from culinary pizzazz with a stone oven to the adventures of a European au pair, from snowy journeys with the KC Ski Club to a tour of Aspen’s underbelly. To outsiders looking in, Shawnee often appears to be a sleeper community boasting its rich history for attraction. But what they don’t see is a community bond that allows even the quirkiest to thrive. As resident Brett Rife says, “We get to have it all. We get to have a family, we get to make art, we get to teach and be involved in these programs. If we lived anywhere else, I think it would be more of a myopic lifestyle.” With that in mind, we found Rife and his wife, Mara Gibson, to be an excellent jumping-off point for our unforeseen stories. The couple have delved into the art education scene in Kansas City. Their work to broaden the face of art creation has led them to unexpected projects, some of which include Barbie. In another creative surprise, the women of Ink’d Girls band together through their tattoos and body art to create a stronger voice and increase their civic engagement. Their work on various community charities helps them break down stereotypes surrounding their tattoos. Meanwhile, Paulo and Bill, a Shawnee mainstay restaurant, continues to offer a solid menu, honest service and tasty delights from the stone oven. But the owners’ panache has taken the restaurant to new avenues, including its popular weekend brunch and a calendar of wine tastings that boost customers’ knowledge of wineries. Another unexpected interest in Shawnee is the network of au pairs working with families through Cultural Care Au Pair. Resident Kerry DeBauge explains the process and benefits of using an au pair and reveals the community of families who have found success with this program. A fun-loving group of ski enthusiasts continue to find camaraderie in the Kansas City area after 18 years. Some Shawnee residents have found a great deal of enjoyment as they help promote the mountains out west for the flatlanders in their communities. They have even found their way to swanky Aspen, where those looking for a winter getaway can stay in cozy bed-and-breakfasts, dine on local fare and savor the snow. Once the season comes to a close and you’ve enjoyed another issue of Shawnee Magazine, I am sure you’ll see there’s more to Shawnee than the obvious and the expected.
Vol. 3 / No. 2
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Departments Contents
2009/10
winter
shawnee living
Under layers of weathered charm, this Cinderella of a house has been meticulously transformed and is ready to take a bow
shawnee Businesses
Shawnee-based Vita Craft has a long history of creating and selling state-of-the-art products
20
Paulo and Bill’s excellent adventure
06
Glamour puss
In Every Issue
03 Dear Reader 40 Q&A 46 best bets
Features
16
Past and present pans
Savory food, exceptional service and dedicated owners continue a rich tradition
Local profiles 24
26
30
Kid Rocker
This guitar-playing teen finds time to enjoy the stage, football field and classroom
Art collaborators
The artistic work of Mara Gibson and Brett Reif
A new mark on civic engagement
These area Ink’d Girls are breaking stereotypes and making a difference
health & fitness 38
Hitting the slopes
KC Ski Club offers locals a chance for sports and solidarity as they head for the mountains
For the Family 42
10
Out of the ordinary
Bonjour Au Pair
Cultural Care provides families with the service and benefits of live-in assistance
A décor update becomes a rejuvenating experience for these budget-minded homeowners
get away
BY Gloria Gale
32
Warm up at the gym
Pinnacle Gymnastics reinvents fitness this winter BY Carolyn Glade Dvorak
sHawneemagazine
on the cover
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Allison Pham practices the balance beam at Pinnacle Gymnastics. {Photography by Tim Andersen} 32 balancing acts at pinnacle gymnastics 10 one home’s tuscan escape 24 mastering the guitar at 15 20 paulo and bill’s tasty history
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The big chill
Beneath its Victorian trappings, this ex-silver mining town is pumped up by high-altitude sports and a world-class reputation
Shawnee
living
best home
story by
Gloria Gale
photography by
Jason Dailey
Glamour
puss
Under layers of weathered charm, this Cinderella of a house has been meticulously transformed and is ready to take a bow
sHawneemagazine
At first glance, Gayle and Kent Best’s Lake Quivira home looks snug like a New
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England cottage banked high on a hill, complete with shingles, shutters and storybook appeal. But the interior reveals itself with a far more glamorous edge. It’s tinged with highlights from the Art Deco period and accented with plenty of va-va voom. “You could say it’s got a rustic pedigree coupled with a bit of Hollywood-on-a-hill appeal,” says Gayle, whose 1936 vintage home now resonates with golden age sophistication. It was almost by accident that Gayle found the house. “Kent and I were not seriously looking for a Lake Quivira home to buy,” says Gayle. But in 2005, a golf tournament and walk around the lake led Gayle and a friend to the Kent and Gayle Best’s renovated Lake Quivira home has a cozy cottage façade. Inside, however, a sassier side of the Shawnee couple is revealed.
Shawnee
living
home. “We stumbled upon this house with an unmistakable presence,” she says. “I have to admit I was captivated and strangely felt owning this house was my destiny.” Excitedly, she told Kent to take a look. “The next thing I knew, he was just as enamored as I was,” she says. The Bests quickly bought the house and proceeded with plans for an extensive 1½-year renovation. Their goal was to pay homage to the cottage, despite the fact that it was a neglected warren of tiny rooms. The Bests hired architect Dan Wessel; together they drew up plans. Skip Hensler came on board as general contractor to oversee the renovation. Situated on the lake’s second tier, “the house still has hallmarks of a cozy and snug cottage,” Gayle says as she steps inside the double doors. “We’ve kept those appointments, then added our own.”
top left A formal entry immediately reveals the spacious home to visitors.
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above Left The dining room is blanketed in rich drapery, reminiscent of 1940s design.
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right The living room is peppered with
unique upholstery and a gleaming décor.
The house, however, has evolved into a far more polished style. Gayle’s enthusiasm ignites as she guides the way from the intimate, boldly textured slate- and glass-tiled foyer into the impressive great-room where the glamour of the l940s dominates. A vaulted, beamed ceiling visually contributes to an open, airy feel anchored by streamlined furnishings. The Bests decorated judiciously within the copper-colored space, leaving clutter behind. Kent has noticed their guests’ reactions. “When people look out to the lake from our living room or our screened-in porch, they are stunned by the view,” he says. Another stunner is the dining room, where Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn would feel perfectly at home. Channeling Hollywood glamour, the room basks in blue silk drapery and brushed metallic accents. “I wanted Art Deco flair, so I added the metal console table and heavily tufted cornice. The entire decor blends beautifully with antiques from both of our families,” says Gayle.
Shawnee
living
Back into the great-room passing Kent’s office, she acknowledges that he enjoys sitting on the back porch in the evening while listening to the waterfall and having a glass of wine. Gayle, on the other hand, prefers to relax while sitting on a simple stool pulled up to the kitchen island. An accomplished cook, she is in her element in this custom-designed kitchen that was once a bedroom. Complete with black and ivory distressed cabinets, mosaic wall covering and abundance of tile, the space is fascinating. “I didn’t want a kitchen that looked like everyone else’s, so I made sure it has a stamp of individuality,” says Gayle.
As Gayle climbs up the original wood staircase to the third floor, she acknowledges there are three bedrooms upstairs and one on the main level for a total of four bedrooms along with five bathrooms. “Kent, who owns a wholesale plumbing supply company, made sure all of the bathroom fixtures are unique,” says Gayle, entering the master bedroom. This amber-toned private retreat built over the garage is half boudoir and half sumptuous bathroom. From the plush carpet to the private iron balcony overlooking the lake, this is a place unmistakably devoted to comfort. Gayle reaches for a black-and-white photograph. “This is a picture of my mother on the day she found out she was pregnant with me. She’s standing just this side of Lake Quivira over a halfcentury ago. Maybe my mother knew all along I would eventually come to call this area home. Perhaps that’s why I was so spellbound by this house,” she says. Now that the house is finished, the Bests’ mission has been accomplished. “We’re working on developing our traditions for our children and grandchildren,” says Gayle. “I think we’ve captured the best of the past [while] bringing it forward into a very modern, livable home.” sm
Kent and Gayle enjoy the home’s Art Deco touches. They’ve also displayed a number of bronze sculptures by brother-in-law, Ken Burns.
Throughout the home’s main level, a series of bronze sculptures crafted by Ken Burns, Kent and Gayle’s brother-in-law, punctuates tabletops. His photography also peppers the home’s lower level. The basement décor departs from both the modern and elegant, becoming more reminiscent of a classy saloon. “Kent and I decided we wanted another area for casual entertainment, plus we have convenient access onto the patio and outdoor kitchen,” says Gayle. Original architectural elements from the house and family memorabilia abound in this novel space. “We kept the original footprint of the house but refinished the floors using Italian tile designed to look like old cobblestone,” she says. “We kept touches from the original cottage foundation. Further, we incorporated the original wood from the doors in the house into what is now the bar.” The space is a storehouse of their past. It holds mementos such as Kent’s mother’s saddle and a collection of vintage posters, cowboy hats and antique guns that remind them of Kent’s Wyoming heritage. A wine tasting room adjacent to the bar is a favorite place to sample new labels. This room still has the original pine-clad windows and a refurbished stone fireplace that was once upstairs in the great-room.
A wine tasting room has become a popular place for the couple to entertain and keep hints of the original cottage.
out of the
Story by Gloria Gale
ord
in ary A dĂŠcor update becomes a rejuvenating experience for these budget-minded homeowners
photography by Jason Dailey
Paula Switzer and Dave Potter are the perfect example of a can-do couple. “After Dave and I married eight years ago, his two kids and my two kids became our four kids, prompting us to realize we were going to need a bigger place to live,” says Paula. Theirs is not a particularly novel story in today’s world. However, part two of the couple’s story becomes more creative. “I had always loved looking at houses, [and] my friend and I decided we should take a walk. Our journey took us into an older Shawnee neighborhood where one rather nondescript house immediately piqued my interest as I looked through the windows,” says Paula. She acknowledges it was exactly like meeting Dave. “There’s a moment when you know you’ve found just what you’re looking for,” she says. Paula thought the home was ideal for their expanded family. Previous owners had renovated the rather ho-hum, l950s split-level into a contemporary concept with a comfortably inviting ambiance that would suit the Switzer-Potter family to a T. Dave agreed that 3,200 square feet of house containing five bedrooms and room for two offices was more than adequate. “How could we go wrong?” he says. Three weeks later the family moved in and lived happily ever after—or at least for the next seven years. The fairy tale took a detour when Paula decided the interior needed a fresh coat of paint. “Truthfully, the layout of the house was terrific. But I got tired of the maroon-colored paint on the walls and the forest green countertops in the kitchen,” she says. Paula, a leadership trainer with 18 years of business experience, admits she was clueless about décor decisions. “I can do many things. But when it comes to decorating, I don’t have that good of an eye,” she admits.
sHawneemagazine
above Warm interior elements create a comfortable feel in Paula Switzer and Dave Potter’s remodeled kitchen.
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right Paula wanted to re-create the look of the Tuscan countryside in the space, which resulted in vibrant yellow walls and Italian accents.
Colors in Paula’s dinnerware helped determine a color palette to be used in the space.
“We’re delighted we chose this blackflecked granite product that complements the new sink and faucet.” – Paula Switzer
Enter her friend and interior designer Jean Tinberg. “I realized we didn’t need to change the footprint of the house. Not everything needed reworking throughout the home’s four levels, but I agreed with the idea of a color lift in the kitchen and dining area,” says Jean. Jean began with a budget the couple drafted. Then she asked them to find a favorite piece of art or furnishing for inspiration. Paula discovered she loved her everyday dinnerware with bands of red, blue, purple, yellow and black—a refreshing palette that would add a spark of novelty to the interior. Ten swatches of yellow later, the homeowners and designer settled on a sunny tint for the kitchen and dining room walls. “It came down to two samples amusingly named Nacho Cheese and American Cheese—two yellow hues, one a deeper shade than the other. Nacho Cheese won,” says Jean, who asked Dave, bemused but not convinced, to trust her on the paint choice. Once the color covered the walls, the couple found the entire space far more inviting. “Everything took on a glow … like you would find in Tuscany, which is exactly what we had hoped for,” says Paula. A remodel of the kitchen 15 years earlier by the former owners yielded the vaulted open-space layout that first attracted Paula and Dave. Jean scrutinized the existing architecture. “When the owner rehabbed, they trimmed out the doors and windows with highly detailed crown, egg-and-dart and columnar molding. We kept all of it, including the kitchen cabinets that only needed new pulls as an upgrade. Similarly, the oak plank flooring was in decent shape. No rework was necessary.” Paula was determined to change the countertops, however. “I realized using granite, which I would’ve preferred, was going to be too pricey. I opted for a spray-on application that renders a similar look and [is] nearly as durable but at a fraction of the cost. We’re delighted we chose this black-flecked
sHawneemagazine
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“There’s a moment when you know you’ve found just what you’re looking for.” – Paula Switzer granite product that complements the new sink and faucet,” she says. Jean’s skillful use of color played a part again as she spray-painted the two ceiling fans brown and added depth to the kitchen island with a nugget brown stain. “Dave was very handy removing a brass saloon foot rail and then applying picture molding to the island surround. It’s that kind of help that kept the budget in check,” says Jean. When Jean announced they needed accessories, Paula jumped at the chance to go shopping. Along the way, a new dining room table and chairs plus armloads of decorative items were integrated into the space. “We even found the bistro table and chairs, place settings for four, a pine breakfront and artwork at a consignment shop,” says Paula. Jean crafted the window valances and chair cushions herself in a subtle floral print to soften the look. “This has been a great experience,” acknowledges Paula, who says she never dreamed a coat of paint and dashes of colorful accessories could be so rejuvenating. Dave, who has a pretty good eye, admits the updated kitchen-dining room space is refreshing. The new look, which came in a smidge over budget, enables the fairy tale to get back on track and this family to open their doors for entertaining. Are they thrilled? As Paula says, “Absolutely … we’re discovering Tuscany is just a light switch away.” sm
The kitchen opens to a cozy living room, providing plenty of room for Paula, Dave and their four kids.
sHawneemagazine
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Shawnee
businesses Vita Craft 11100 W. 58th St. (913) 631-6265 Monday-Friday
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
www.vitacraft.com
Past and present pans Shawnee-based Vita Craft has a long history of creating and selling state-of-the-art products
story by
Ryan Brown
photography by
Jason Dailey
Tucked away in Shawnee, Vita Craft Corp.
sHawneemagazine
is a true local success story. Founded in 1939, Vita Craft has manufactured, marketed, serviced and sold its pots and pans while becoming one of the well-known names in cookware. “Today, people want more than just a pot to cook in or a pan to cook in,” says Cheri Sparks, national sales manager for Vita Craft. “They want
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something that cooks their food better, healthier, smarter—and also looks good, too. Cookware is no longer a one-size-fits-all type of business.” Vita Craft employs about 30 people and, according to Sparks, is “one of the best-kept secrets in Shawnee.”
Lasting service For 70 years, Vita Craft has built, serviced, sold and repaired cookware from its Shawnee headquarters. Pots
Ken Phillips, Vita Craft plant manager, has seen technology advance in the pots and pans made at the Shawnee headquarters.
and pans are created from scratch and undergo a rigorous inspection process before they are released to the buying public. “We inspect 100 percent of anything that comes through our plant,” says Ken Phillips, plant manager. “Lots of eyes and hands look at our products before we allow them to be sold.” Phillips, a 15-year employee of Vita Craft, says there is more to the company than making cookware.
Shawnee
businesses “We produce between 800 and 900 units a day here,” says Phillips. “We apply as much science to the process as possible, but it’s almost an art when it comes to making something that is as quality a product as Vita Craft is. Employees start to know, just from seeing or touching something, whether or not it is up to our standards.” Two years ago, the company opened the Vita Craft Factory Outlet, which is adjacent to its corporate headquarters. In addition to offering discounted items that are in product lines, the store provides an ideal marketing opportunity for the company. “People stop by and say, ‘I thought you sold vitamins here’ or something like that,” says Nancy Marcus, store manager. “Customers come in here asking questions, and it allows us the chance to show them what we’re about.”
On the line With quality craftsmanship and a lifetime guarantee on its products, Vita Craft offers another feature that many customers admire. The company has expanded beyond what most people consider “just pots and pans” and created an innovative product that employs “waterless, greaseless” cooking. “Boiling food sterilizes food and destroys both the color and flavor of it,” says Sparks. “Peeling fruit and vegetables removes the vitamins and minerals directly beneath the skin. With our cookware, you don’t need to peel or boil anything—just give the food a good scrub.” By creating a vapor seal around the lid of pots and pans, Vita Craft cookware contains the natural moisture in foods. And with the one-piece metal construction, heat is evenly distributed to the food. “Waterless cooking keeps the aroma in the pan and helps the food keep its natural juices and flavors,” says Sparks. Additionally, Vita Craft has rolled out its induction cooking line, which is a big hit in Japan. In the last 20 years, the company has partnered with several Japanese distributors to create lines of induction cookware to satisfy the demand across the Pacific Ocean. “Induction cooking cooks almost like gas,” says Sparks. “The cooking vessel gets hot but the stove doesn’t, so it’s safer. It’s a much more controllable heat and can prevent accidents.”
years and we’re the same company that we were when they were kids. People tell me that they used to wear our discarded pots and pans as helmets when they were kids, and now their kids are doing the same thing.” By constantly identifying consumer needs and looking for the next big thing in cookware, the company has established itself as a pioneer in the field. “We try to keep things simple here,” says Sparks. “Treat the customer right, treat them with respect, honor your word and make a good product. We know that we make the best cookware in the world right now, and we want people to enjoy the Vita Craft experience.” sm
The response
sHawneemagazine
“People like and respect that Vita Craft is made in the U.S.A.—in their neighborhood,” says Marcus. “They like that we’ve been here 70
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left Vita Craft gurus include, from left, Gary Martin, Kevin Ashcroft, Marvin Adamson, David Rothe, Mike Johnson and Bruce Stephenson. right Cheri Sparks, Vita Craft national sales manager, is proud that the business has been based in Shawnee for 70 years.
Shawnee
businesses
Paulo and Bill 16501 Midland Drive (913) 962-9900
Paulo and Bill’s excellent adventure Savory food, exceptional service and dedicated owners continue a rich tradition
www.kansascitymenus. com/pauloandbill/
story by
Gloria Gale
photography by
Jason Dailey
sHawneemagazine
It’s no secret that the restaurant business is fraught with pitfalls. Poor service, inconsistent food and erratic scheduling are factors known to bedevil an establishment. Yet none of these misfortunes has plagued Paulo and Bill throughout its long-standing tenure in Shawnee. What began as a star in the PB&J restaurant group’s universe continues to shine for
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the restaurant’s new owners, Jim and Cathy Marks, who purchased Paulo and Bill in 2003. “We wanted to continue the tradition that had already been developed since our diners seem to rely on familiarity,” says Cathy. The two former PB&J employees—Jim was the general manager at the original Coyote Grill, while Cathy worked in human resources— saw an opportunity and decided this was their chance to showcase every-
left Jim and Cathy Marks have enjoyed overseeing the success of their Shawnee restaurant, Paulo and Bill. right Executive chef Dan Drake has tested many menu items and added the popular monthly wine dinners.
thing they had learned in the restaurant business. “When we purchased Paulo and Bill, it was still a viable concept, which we heartily welcomed,” says Cathy. The Markses embraced ownership with gusto. They discovered they didn’t need to tinker much with a successful brand. After all, the idea wasn’t broken. “We didn’t even change the name, since it’s still enjoyed a loyal following,” says Cathy.
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Jennifer Showers Licensed Office Manager Paul Ridgway Agency, Inc. (913) 962-1410 Bus Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm
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Shawnee
businesses
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A warm, romantic environment reminiscent of an inviting Tuscan bistro greets patrons the moment they walk through the heavy wooden doors. “There’s a reason we haven’t changed the interior,” admits Cathy. The Markses are understandably proud of their establishment’s reputation. They realize maintaining impeccable service with total attention to preparation is something every “mom-and-pop” shop must stress in these tough times. Launching into their seventh year of operation, the Markses are proud to have Dan Drake as their executive chef. “Without a doubt, Dan has impeccable credentials, graduating from the Culinary Institute of America (in Hyde Park, New York). Further, his insistence on procuring and serving locally sourced food whenever possible is a reason enough to celebrate. In fact, it’s something we look forward to, whether he’s buying honey or heirloom tomatoes,” says Cathy. Drake’s attention to detail applies to each dish. “I believe that you must give the customer quality at an affordable price point. Otherwise, people will go elsewhere,” Drake says. “One of our signature items is Paulo’s Chicken Salad, for example. As a long-standing favorite, we continue to feature it because it routinely gets raves. Similarly, our bowtie pasta and lasagna rank at the top. All of our fish is fresh. That’s one of the ways we can assure a dish will have exceptional taste.” It’s not just about the tried-and-true menu, Cathy says. They are aware of their diners’ palates and will accommodate preferences by altering dishes to be healthier or include more or less of certain ingredients. Currently, the restaurant features a “lite” plate consisting of a side salad, beef, chicken or fish and vegetable kabob plus a choice of rice, pasta or potato. On Tuesday through Thursday evenings, a bountiful specialty platter known as the Trio consists of an appetizer and three entrees. Cathy trains her staff of approximately 75 with the attention of a mother hen. She wants her servers to be knowledgeable and professional. “Many of our wait staff is part-time students. We want them to have as positive an experience as our diners. We realize that translates into a caring attitude while attending to their guests,” she says. Kelli Bounds is a perfect example. As a part-time student who has worked with the Markses for more than two years, this server takes her job seriously. “I love pleasing people, hearing good feedback and giving the customer a satisfying experience every time,” she says. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, compliments flow as easily as the wine— particularly at the bar, which Cathy says is a great place to meet and greet
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Waitress Kelli Bounds serves diners with ease thanks to the restaurant’s reliable reputation.
people. “Come in any evening and our wood-fired brick oven is roaring,” she says. “People enjoy the experience of watching the preparation as much as the casual atmosphere this area promotes.” Another way to enjoy the food and meet new people is by attending one of the house wine dinners scheduled throughout the year. Whether it’s arranging a business lunch, hosting a group of friends outside on the patio or planning a family gathering, the Markses strive to satisfy every guest—and that makes for an excellent adventure indeed. sm
Wine dinners Enjoying a particular vintage while dining is one thing. Learning about the winery from the vintner embellishes the experience. Dan Drake, executive chef at Paulo and Bill, hopes to heighten guests’ knowledge about wine by offering wine dinners throughout the year. “I like to think this is an exceptional way to learn about wine. We are scheduling three tastings in the spring and three in the winter. Each dinner will feature five courses paired with a glass of wine from a specific winery,” he says. Every dinner features dishes specially designed by Drake or chef Jesus Capetillo and pastry chef Yacquelin Garcia. “People love our wine dinners that usually attract 40 to 75 people. They’re an excellent way to meet new people and taste some exceptional wines. Oh, and rest assured, you’ll never walk away hungry,” says owner Cathy Marks.
Local
profiles davis millard
story by
Kimberly J. Stern photography by
tim andersen
Kid Rocker
This guitar-playing teen finds time to enjoy the stage, football field and classroom
sHawneemagazine
Davis Millard has an impressive resume for a 15-year-old.
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The Shawnee teenager is a standout athlete, straight-A student and devoted fretboard aficionado. The articulate and personable young man sets a positive example for his peers by eschewing alcohol and drugs while also enjoying time spent with his family—an attitude not all teenagers can claim.
Shawnee teenager Davis Millard enjoys many activities, but his favorite is jamming on his guitar.
Local
profiles Although Davis, a freshman at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, blazes a trail on the football field, ice hockey rink and in the classroom, he’s a kid rocker at heart. His innate talent for playing the guitar and writing songs fuels his life with a force of creative energy that attracts respect from adults and his contemporaries.
Musical undertones In rocker jargon, Davis shreds the guitar. He began playing the instrument when he was 10. After just two months, he felt the rigors of weekly lessons and daily practice were too difficult, so he quit and instead pursued a self-described “short stint on the drums.” “I’m a decent player,” says Davis of his drumming skills. His dad, Lee Benson, reignited his son’s interest in the guitar when the duo attended a Nickelback concert. The then-12-year-old revisited the guitar and, thanks to his dad’s taste in music, channeled the classic rock genre and its well-known guitar heroes. “I love playing rock,” says Davis. “My dad introduced me, and I like Eddie Van Halen’s onstage guitar playing. He’s awesome.”
Honing talent Davis, who admits to an internal drive, taught himself for a year prior to signing up for private guitar lessons at the Music House in Overland Park. Co-owners Aaron Sizemore and fiancée Katrinka Riggs, a classically trained musician, launched the school to help talented individuals—who now numbers more than 500—expand their musical horizons. Sizemore marvels at Davis’ ability. “We have two all-star bands at the Music House for which students are invited to audition, usually following several years spent in beginner and intermediate levels,” says Sizemore. “Davis is playing in the rock-pop band this semester, and it’s pretty rare that someone rises so quickly through the ranks.” This all-star band gives Davis a golden opportunity to concentrate on songwriting and playing in advanced harmonic territory. The multitalented kid rocker prioritizes his myriad activities like a corporate CEO manages a busy workday. After school Davis attends three-hour football practices, plows through homework, sometimes makes his oft-requested pasta for a family dinner and then retreats to
his well-appointed music room on the lower level of the family house. He and the members of his band of two years, Shadow in the Dark, practice on weekends, when the four classmates concentrate on perfecting original songs by Davis and bass player Matt Humphrey. The group, which has its own demo disc, plays for peers, festivals and other events including the Battle of the Bands at the Johnson County Library. Davis occasionally sits in with Shrinkage, an Overland Park-based band comprised of stay-at-home dads and corporate executives who play on weekends, at local pubs, fundraisers or private parties. Of Davis’s seven guitars, his gleaming Fender Stratocaster in a favorite.
Young gun
Davis appreciates the support his parents, Joan and Lee Benson, have given him in pursuing the guitar and starting his own band.
sHawneemagazine
His mom Joan knows Davis is wise beyond his years. “He’s a bit atypical for a teenager,” she says. “He’s very mature but also relates to his friends. He’s responsible, accountable and dedicated to music, school, friends and family.” Davis’ dad has also been a major role model in his life. “He’s nurturing, a great listener and loves his family,” he says. Whatever the earnest young man chooses to do, it likely will be with the same tenacity, brilliance and gusto that he exhibits when playing his beloved guitars. sm
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Local
profiles mara gibson and brett reif
story by
Vince Meserko photography by
Tim Andersen
Art collaborators sHawneemagazine
The artistic work of Mara Gibson and Brett Reif
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Mara Gibson and Brett Reif are living in a sort of organized chaos. The Shawnee couple have created a world of unique collaboration—a blending of the orthodox and the anything but.
Mara Gibson, Brett Reif and their son Coel explore a colorful world with their many artistic undertakings.
Local
profiles Mara, a composer, and Brett, an artist, favor a cooperative design process that crosses art disciplines, media and genres. This type of partnership is the underlying principle that guides their personal lives, creative work and professional careers as educators. Their hope? To loosen the divisions that exist in art, music and academia— and the result better be beautiful.
Rooting themselves Mara is an assistant professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and former lecturer at the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI). Brett is an assistant professor in the KCAI School of the Foundation Year, an introductory one-year art program. The husband-and-wife team has shared teachings and creative work across the country, from New Orleans to North Carolina to Buffalo to Shawnee—a place they find ideal for its affordability, good schools and proximity to Kansas City, Missouri. “We get to have it all. We get to have a family, we get to make art, we get to teach and be involved in these
programs. If we lived anywhere else, I think it would be more of a myopic lifestyle,” Brett says. “We stay connected to the heartland of America. You get a sense of what America really is.” Mara and Brett credit living in Kansas for helping them realize the immense possibility in thinking across disciplines as artists and educators. Brett says the heartland is more artistically advanced than many people think. This sentiment has helped them embark on their current endeavors.
ArtSounds Kansas City provides a ripe climate for Mara’s pioneering of the ArtSounds project, a scholastic effort between KCAI and UMKC’s Conservatory of Music. In this creative atmosphere, music, art, dance, film and literature become indistinguishable. It begins by pairing one faculty member from KCAI with one faculty member from UMKC. Typically a composer is paired with a visual artist, but the group effort often includes dancers, poets and filmmakers. These two faculty members work
together on a performance that melds their artistic talents into a cohesive whole. ArtSounds performances are staged six times a year on the second Tuesday of the month at KCAI’s Epperson Auditorium. “I don’t know of too many places that actually facilitate two people coming together like that and creating a work not necessarily in any genre, but in a completely new context—one that can be invented,” Mara says. Brett assisted in the creation of the ArtSounds project and has his performance in March. He says it requires a certain artistic personality to make this type of sharing effective. “It really takes people being open, curious and nondefensive about their own genre,” Brett says. “To share ownership is hard for people to do.” Adding to the difficulty and perhaps the wonder of the project’s participatory nature is the fact that neither artist might be able to foresee where the piece is headed. “Several of my collaborations through ArtSounds, I had no idea going in what to expect. That’s one of the beautiful things about collaboration. You have to really let that system build itself,” Mara says.
Breaking boundaries The ArtSounds project is also represented in the form of music that Mara composes. “I’m very interested in not being able to discern between one sound and
above The couple appreciate that they are able to practice the kind of art they love while living in Shawnee.
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left Brett’s mixed-media creations include Orange willie and drip.
27
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Suite Dreams: don’t run features a fried Barbie, sugar-coated toy gun and epoxy on cutting boards.
another and how they morph into these new and unusual things without one necessarily perceiving that that is what’s going on,� she says. “I find it interesting to carve a space of sound out. That’s what I’m interested in doing. That’s where the blendings and the blurrings and all of those aesthetic choices that interest me come from.� The same merging of genre and medium appears in Brett’s creations. “The way that I like to interact materials is similar to the collaborative concept of Mara’s work,� he says. One of his more notable pieces is a collection of Barbie dolls that he deepfried into a massive glob as part of a series in which he also coated a toy gun with sugar. “To candy-coat it and say, ‘Here, play with this gun,’ doesn’t seem like a wise thing to do,� Brett explains of the work’s ironic use of medium. Like Mara, he takes a fluid approach when creating his art. sm
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Local
profiles ink’d girls
story by
Vince Meserko
photography by
Jason Dailey
A new mark
on civic engagement
sHawneemagazine
These area Ink’d Girls are breaking stereotypes and making a difference
30
Julie Marschall is well aware of the associations that come with tattoos: prison, sailors, criminals and even Dennis Rodman. The connotations are usually negative, and the stigma can be tough to shake. But for one group of Kansas City-area women, tattoos serve as objects of charity and symbols of grace.
Shawnee’s Julie Marschall, co-founder of Ink’d Girls, enjoys making a philanthropic difference in the Kansas City area.
Local
profiles They call themselves the Ink’d Girls, and since December 2007 Shawnee resident Marschall and her friends have served the Kansas City region in a variety of philanthropic efforts aimed not only at exploding perceptions surrounding the tattoos they wear but also at inspiring a sense of civic engagement in others. “We’re intelligent, we care and we’re out to make a difference in our community,” Marschall says of the group she founded with friend Nancy Burke. Ink’d Girls comprises about 25 Kansas City-area women who unite around the common interest of helping those without a voice, whether they are abandoned animals or premature infants. In May the group helped No More Homeless Pets KC with its first motorcycle ride, and in September the Ink’d Girls participated in the annual March of Dimes Bikers for Babies benefit, which raises funds to help parents, families and nurses with issues of pregnancy and premature birth. Alexandra Kuebler, director of development for No More Homeless Pets KC, worked closely with the group at the motorcycle ride in May. The Ink’d Girls helped at a stop along the route at Johnny’s Tavern in Shawnee. “All of my riders just loved them. They had the best time with those ladies,” Kuebler says. There was no apprehension about the girls’ participation due to their tattoos, nor did any of the participants or organizers express
any doubts. “I think anybody who looks at them and says, ‘Oh, they’ve got tattoos,’ then they are the ones missing out. They’re just awesome gals,” she says. While the Ink’d Girls’ role at charity events can vary, it’s always rewarding. “It’s just hanging out at the booth, greeting people, having fun with the kids and passing out literature,” says Marschall. Burke speaks at most of the events, a fact supported by her voice, made gravely by hours spent talking with families at the Bikers for Babies event, where the group helped raise more than $500. In June they helped preregister motorcycle riders for Animal Haven’s Tire Marks and Dog Barks event. The Ink’d Girls network extends beyond these local events to the West Coast and across to Ohio. It has even extended its reach overseas with an international chapter with members in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The Kansas City chapter is also committed to supporting local tattoo shops, motorcycle rides and tattoo conventions. Marschall estimates there is a core group of eight to 10 women at each event. Group policy requires that each member volunteer for at least three events per year. “I love to do things for people. I love to give back to the community,” Burke says of why she decided to help found the group. While the Ink’d Girls are dedicated to philanthropy first, they describe their group in familial terms and are
often on the lookout for new members. It is up to Melissa Tomsen, recruitment coordinator, to sift through applications, which are available online, and choose ideal candidates for inclusion. “We look for tastefulness. We are a very family-oriented group,” says Tomsen, who likes to recruit members with tattoos that are personally meaningful, artistic and against convention. She’s quick to add, however, that a cool tattoo won’t be enough to get you in the group. “That’s one thing I like to specify: We’re picking people that want to become part of something bigger than themselves,” says Tomsen, who acknowledges that before joining the group she felt wrapped up in herself but now appreciates helping others. Recruiting can be tough (no drama queens allowed, according to Burke) and looking for the only requirement for inclusion—the tattoo—isn’t always easy either. While the connotations that tattoos invite can seem limiting, Marschall, Burke and Tomsen have no regrets. “You don’t want to desecrate your body; you want to beautify your body,” she says. It’s an apt description and perhaps indicative of the group’s principle concern for improvement and betterment, a standard the Ink’d Girls say guides their relationships with their community and each another. “It’s a sisterhood. It’s a family. I know I can depend on these women, and they can depend on me,” Tomsen says. sm
to share philanthropic efforts and break down stereotypes. above Member Melissa Tomsen, helps to recruit new members who fall in line with the group’s values.
sHawneemagazine
left Nancy Burke co-founded the group in order
31
Warm up at the gym Pinnacle Gymnastics reinvents fitness this winter
Taylor Powers practices on the rings.
Photography by Tim Andersen
Story by Carolyn Glade Dvorak
As winds cool and temperatures plunge, parents and kids need someplace to burn off energy indoors. Whether it’s team sports, individual lessons or simple playtime, the goal is to let kids have fun and stay active during winter.
Young gymnasts take on the balance beams at Pinnacle Gymnastics.
Morgan Kuchynka, Pinnacle Gymnastic’s owner, has followed her dreams by opening the business, which benefits area gymnasts.
Matthew Braden practices a back handspring with a little help.
Morgan Kuchynka had those ideas in mind when she opened Pinnacle Gymnastics in Shawnee. “You want your kids to be active and involved in things,” she says. As one of five children, Kuchynka says her parents made sure she and her siblings participated in some sport, sometimes more than one at a time. “I tried soccer, figure skating and hockey, but with brothers in hockey I wanted something that was really my own,” she says. “I actually went to gymnastics with a friend and absolutely loved it. My mom signed me up.” Kuchynka competed as a gymnast for nine years and coached gymnastics through high school and college. During her college years, she knew she wanted to continue working with gymnastics and coaching. Even before earning her business degree, she was planning to open her own facility. After graduating from the University of Kansas in May 2005, Kuchynka opened her first Shawnee location in August of that year. In July of 2008 she moved the gym to its current location in Perimeter Park; this year a second Pinnacle Gymnastics location opened in Overland Park. “I was really drawn to the [Shawnee] area because of lots of families and because of a void of offering for kids in that area, especially in the winter months,” she says. The same became true for the Overland Park location when she realized there were not many places with gymnastics. Now with a son of her own, Grant, who’s almost 2 years old, and with suggestions from patrons, Kuchynka says she tries to provide programs the whole family can enjoy when the weather turns colder. “Soccer’s over, the other outdoor sports are over,” she says. “[Gymnastics] keeps everyone moving and healthy and hopefully makes for a good winter.” The advantage to gymnastics is that children can begin at an early age, Kuchynka says. As young as 6 months, they can do simple moves with their parents and by age 3 can be on their own in a class. Kris and Damien Illum of Olathe have all three of their children involved at the gym. “I thought it was a great activity to do,” says Kris. “They absolutely love it.”
“You try until you get it right. It teaches you to fail and get up and try again and to never quit when it gets hard.” – Morgan Kuchynka
Lillie Sullivan prepares for a tumble.
Kris thinks gymnastics classes have helped her 22-month-old son Derek progress through the stages of crawling, standing and walking. “[Gymnastics] is a huge coordination benefit, especially for our son,” she says. Together, the three of them are enrolled in the parent/tot class. The Illum daughters—Brooke, 8, and Amber, 6—are in Level 4 gymnastics at Pinnacle. The atmosphere is conducive to learning and having fun, she says, and going to practice twice a week keeps them fit. Whether children are there for fun or competition, the classes are instrumental in keeping a body healthy. Gymnastics provide muscle strength and coordination as well as balance and flexibility, says Kuchynka. Children also learn skills that they carry into other areas of their lives. In gymnastics, “You try until you get it right. It teaches you to fail and get up and try again and to never quit when it gets hard,” she says. sm
Accounting for the benefits In the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services “2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans,” it is recommended that children and adolescents take part in 60 minutes of physical activity every day, including aerobic, muscle and bone strengthening exercises. The study also advises that activity be age appropriate, fun and varied. Learn more at www.health.gov/paguidelines. According to the USA Gymnastics web site, some of the skills and health benefits achieved through gymnastics are coordination, speed, strength, precision, focus, agility, poise, rhythm and self-confidence. See www. beginheregoanywhere.com for more information.
Pinnacle Gymnastics offers a variety of classes for students at all ability levels. Other classes include Parent/Tot, Open Gym time and Adult Boot Camp. New this year is Drop and Shop on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Yoga for Adults and a New Year’s Eve party for children.
Allison Pham, Merrin O’Connor and MaKayla Todd perfect their form on the balance beam.
Pinnacle Gymnastics Shawnee 23803 W. 83rd Terrace (913) 422-0161
Overland Park 12505 Hemlock St. (913) 239-0031
www.pinnaclegymnastics.com
Health &
fitness story by
Jaime Netzer
photography by
jason dailey
hitting the
slopes
KC Ski Club offers locals a chance for sports and solidarity as they head for the mountains When Linda Conley joined the Kansas City Ski Club 18 years ago, she didn’t know a thing about skiing. “I had always wanted to ski in college. I wanted a different outlet,” she says. “When I joined the club, I went on a trip with 39 other people I didn’t know. I made friends on the trip; they were all good to me. Many of them offered to ski with me because they knew I was a first-time skier. I’m still close enough to everyone that I want to stay involved.” So she stuck around. Today Conley, a Shawnee resident, is one of 1,000 KC Ski Club members and works for the club instead of just enjoying its adventures. “I’ve had some ankle problems, so I don’t ski anymore, but I just got on as trip director,” Conley says. When Dennis Evans joined the KC Ski Club, it was on its way to a membership boom of close to 3,000. Then he was a bit younger and single. Today the Lenexa resident is 58, serves as the club’s marketing coordinator and is in his 16th year of marriage to his wife, whom he met in the club. “It was a great place to meet people back then,” Evans says. “And it still is today. I’ve heard lots and lots of stories like ours.”
sHawneemagazine
Seeking mountains
38
“we leave kansas city at 5 p.m., serve dinner and beer and soft drinks on the bus, and everybody parties on the way out until they get tired. then they put up the bunks and sleep the rest of the way.”
The KC Ski Club has been around since 1955, when it was formed by a handful of area folks interested in skiing. It now organizes more than a dozen trips annually to ski resorts across the country, hosts monthly meetings and even facilitates an array of volunteer efforts citywide with the help of its dedicated members. “We run about 16 trips a year, most of them during the winter and to Colorado. We run on sleeper buses,”
– dennis evans
Dennis Evans, left, Linda Conley and Eric Lynn patiently wait for the snow to arrive so they can embark on another ski trip with the KC Ski Club.
below Members of the KC Ski Club take advantage of a beautiful day atop the slopes in Crested Butte. Photograph courtesy of John Nee below right The KC Ski Club travels to faraway places such as New Zealand. Photograph courtesy of Steve Young
Evans says. “We leave Kansas City at 5 p.m., serve dinner and beer and soft drinks on the bus, and everybody parties on the way out until they get tired. Then they put up the bunks and sleep the rest of the way.” The club coordinates a handful of air trips to places like Europe or Canada. Evans estimates that around 40 people will attend a Colorado trip, and about 10 to 24 people ski with the club abroad. Perhaps the most obvious benefit to skiing with a larger group is discounted rates. But Evans and his fellow skiers explain the appeal is more than monetary. “The biggest advantage is that we plan everything,” Evans says. “I don’t know if you’ve ever traveled with friends, but sometimes it’s a little hard to get everybody on the same page. That’s what the ski club offers. We give you a price, and it’s usually as good or a better deal as you can find anywhere else, and you know everything that price includes. It’s convenient. It’s something you can go on and not have to plan yourself.” The ski club makes sense for individuals who enjoy hitting the slopes but whose spouses or loved ones may not. “If you love to ski but say your husband doesn’t, you can go with the club and room with a female friend and not have to feel like you’re dragging him along. Plenty of guys in the club, their wives don’t ski, and these guys go skiing all the time on club trips,” says Evans. According to Evans, club members include skiers of every skill level, from beginner to “downright experts.” In addition to regular resort trips, the club participates in regional racing events each year.
Beyond the slopes
Interested in carving snow with the KC Ski Club The Kansas City Ski Club meets the first Tuesday of every month at Californos at Westport, 4124 Pennsylvania St. Summertime months are social meetings only, with business being resumed October through April. For more information about the club, see
www.kcskiclub.org
sHawneemagazine
Moreover, the club has a strong tradition of volunteer efforts. Each year, KC Ski Club members make up about 80 percent of volunteers at the Special Olympics winter games, which usually occur in Weston, Missouri. A group of volunteers from the club are involved
on a community projects committee, which fields requests from charities for volunteers at various events and causes. “It’s actually one of our strongest committees,” Evans says. “They’ve got a core group of about 60 people that consistently lend help. Almost every month, we lend volunteers to something.” This diversity in purpose and projects boosts the club’s membership. Eric Lynn, KC Ski Club president and Shawnee resident, says, “One of my goals for the club is to attract new members and retain existing members, and in this economy people aren’t thinking about going on trips as much. “But that’s one of the pluses of membership. We’re still able to provide the same great trip values we always have, which is a great thing these days,” says Lynn. “It’s still a wonderful place for social and sports activities, and a great place to network, and it’s right here in town.” sm
39
Q& A
Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Katy Ibsen. Photograph by Jason Dailey.
with
we’re out there in 100-degree weather trying to make a tree look like a Christmas tree! And we have a lot of problems because we’re so close to Shawnee Mission Park with the deer. The deer will just go right up the rows of newly planted trees and just take the tops out. Then that puts the tree back by almost two years of growth time before it can recover, and you have to do a lot of manipulating of it to make it go straight again.
Judy Wegman
sHawneemagazine
Midland Holiday Pines, Shawnee 18541 Midland Dr.
40
Judy Wegman and her husband, Philip, are in the tree business. But it’s not just any tree business—it’s the Christmas tree business. After acquiring seven acres of land from a neighbor, they embarked on an adventure they have come to love. Judy will be the first to admit it’s easier said than done. But as things wind down on the last weekend before the holiday, she’ll confirm it’s all worth it. “When the families come, they’re excited, whether it’s a couple or a family with kids,” she says. “They all come to the farm looking for something that is going to make them happy, so we feel happiness and memories.” Since the Wegmans started their farm endeavor 16 years ago, several thousand trees have grown on the farm and found their way into the homes of Shawnee families. And every season, that’s what the Wegmans enjoy most.
How many trees do you typically have?
They’re hard to count! To be real honest with you, at this moment, I would say we are selling several thousand. How do you make a Christmas tree farm run efficiently?
It takes a lot of energy and a lot of time. My husband and I try to do all the little details to make it easier for the customer when they come on the farm. We try to make it so that it’s happy time for the families. (Trees vary from $40 to around $100.)
How did you get in the Christmas tree business?
We had the property and thought, “What are we going to do with it?” A friend of ours had been in the tree business, and a cousin of mine had been in the tree business … and we were talking about it: “Oh yeah, it’s a wonderful business. You’ll love it.” So we started planting trees, but it takes seven years from the time you plant the tree before you ever get to harvest. So there’s a long, long time between starting the project to seeing what comes out and what life is like on the other side.
What is the best compliment you receive from customers?
When they go, “Oh! What a beautiful tree!” or they’ll say, “Oh, we found the best tree in the whole place!” That’s what it’s about. And your family holiday celebration?
There isn’t any until we close the farm! … If I knew all of this before I planted those first trees, I would have reconsidered. I think it’s become part of the process, and the one good thing is we do see our daughters because they come out for family time, and family working together time, which is really hard to do in the Kansas City community.
You started in?
We started planting trees 16 years ago. And so we’re only on like our seventh or eighth harvest. It takes forever to get to that state! But we weren’t real smart at the beginning.
Do you get to pick your tree first?
What are some trials on the farm?
What’s your favorite part of the holiday season?
I like to be outside. The physical labor isn’t so bad, and I really don’t like parts of it. … We’ll plant in March and April and then we have to do what we call a shearing or shaping of the tree, and that starts in June. So June, July, August
Oh, no! Last. It’s whatever tree is left in the field that we really want to clear that space out before we plant new trees.
I would probably say getting the first tree for the first customer for the first day. There’s always that excitement of getting the season open and having people come on the farm. sm
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For the
family AU PAIR
story by
kim antisdel
photography by
Tim Andersen
A
u pairs are no longer a thing of the past or an overseas curiosity. Their services are finding new value as they aid progressive parents around the globe in the growing demand for child care. Cultural Care Au Pair, one of the largest au pair organizations in the world, has been providing families across the United States with child care assistance since 1989. Through a highly regulated program, Cultural Care places young individuals from around the globe with selected host families. Au pair agencies like Cultural Care are regulated by the state government and require a local liaison to be available for host families at all times. Kerry DeBauge of Shawnee first hosted an au pair through
Bonjour
Au Pair
Cultural Care for her two children. Two years ago she joined the organization as a coordinator. “I help families to understand what they are taking on with an au pair, and I understand because I did it myself,” says DeBauge. “Hosting an au pair is not just like having an exchange student, and it’s not the same as having a nanny. There’s an in-between area that I assist families with understanding.” Au pairs actually live with families for a set length of time and are paid as live-in child care providers during their stay. Typically they remain with host families for one year, but the time can be extended up to another year if both parties are willing. DeBauge is present when families meet with their potential au pairs to help answer questions and explain the requirements. She continues to be a presence after the families and au pairs are matched. “I meet with the au pairs once a month to get a feel for how things are going,” says DeBauge, who also plans a monthly group get-together for the host families and their au pairs. This fall the group met at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival for some fun and interaction.
sHawneemagazine
Cultural Care provides families with the service and benefits of live-in assistance
42
Kerry DeBauge, local coordinator for Cultural Care Au Pair experienced the benefits of an au pair and has gone on to help other families with their decisions to invite an au pair in to their homes.
For the
family
Carol Gometz and her husband, Eric, an Olathe host family in DeBauge’s circle, are happy with their decision to get an au pair. Gometz, an IT consultant project manager for AT&T, has used a traditional www.culturalcare.com nanny in the past. Her family’s international background helped influence them http://kdebauge.aupairnews.com to try an au pair. “My husband Eric is from South America, so the idea of an au pair was appealing,” she says. “For our first child, we didn’t investigate the cost of an au pair very thoroughly and assumed it was too expensive, so we hired a local nanny. After our second child, we really looked at the numbers for an au pair and it was an eye-opener.” As Gometz discovered, the program fees for Cultural Care average $325 per week. And unlike typical at-home nannies or child care centers, the weekly cost does not fluctuate based on the age and number of children. It’s natural for families considering an au pair to have concerns. This is where Cultural Care’s 20 years of expertise and program placement managers play a role, DeBauge says. “Au pairs write letters to the perspective host families and answer questions about themselves. In addition, potential au pairs provide references and even videos of themselves,” says DeBauge. “I even talked to my au pair via instant message chat, and I learned so much about her personality that way.” Gometz remembers clearly how she and Eric interviewed their au pair, Florencia Coronel. “We had three interviews with Florencia,” Gometz says. “The first was very informal; we didn’t want to get too personal, and Cultural Care provided us with a list of good starter questions. By the second interview, our questions went a little deeper. On the third interview, my husband actually spoke to her father on the phone.” Under Cultural Care, au pairs are required to pass an English proficiency test. Though the au pair may not be fluent in English, improving their language skills is part of the cultural experience. Au pairs are given plenty of opportunities to enjoy their time in the United States, as they receive two weeks paid time off and work a maximum of 45 hours per week. “Florencia and I sit down and work out her schedule each week,” says Gometz. “She spends some of her off time with us but has started to grow in her individual confidence. Her English has gotten much better, and she really is becoming a part of our family.” DeBauge and Gometz agree that hosting an au pair is probably not for everyone. A host family must understand the level of commitment in a program like Cultural Care is higher than other child care or exchange programs. But for parents like DeBauge and Gometz, hosting an au pair is not only worth the time and investment, it is also incredibly rewarding. sm Cultural Care Au Pairs, from left, Sara Sjoblom, Gretchen Contag, Svetlana Voloshina and Anastasiya Shvetsova
Cultural Care
gather at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival for some entertainment.
sHawneemagazine
43
Get
away aspen, colorado
The big
chill
story by
Gloria Gale
Photography courtesy of
Beneath its Victorian trappings, this ex-silver mining town is pumped up by high-altitude sports and a world-class reputation
aspen chamber of commerce
Aspen has
nothing left
to prove.
As pristine and sophisticated as it is now, this bustling former silver mining town saw fortunes rise in the late 1800s before plummeting at the turn of the 19th century. Today, Aspen’s quaint appeal, reminiscent of its Victorian heyday, still exists, but it has been reinvented as a cultural outpost and alpine playground. There’s little doubt this charming Roaring Fork Valley town knows how to affordably celebrate the good life. And while the highfalutin glitz and glamour remain, Aspen is surprisingly laid-back and approachable for its 6,000 residents and minions of first-timer visitors.
sHawneemagazine
Base camp Comfortable digs in this winter wonderland are essential for your peace of mind. This
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The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies is on Hallam Lake.
town’s hospitality redefines relaxation thanks to a host of hassle-free, affordable hotels, bed-andbreakfasts and lodges. Limelight Lodge is a family-owned business with affordable guest rooms, an expansive penthouse suite and unparalleled downtown location. The Snow Queen Lodge is a historic jewel. Built in l886, the B&B is a Victorian treasure within walking distance of Aspen Mountain. Hotel Lenado boasts distinctive architecture and luxurious amenities. An intimate, wood-detailed bar routinely garners raves. The Molly Gibson Lodge, Main Street’s ski hotel, has been updated with charming rooms. This true boutique property showcases Aspen’s history from its early ski hill days.
Mountain Chalet is a family-run hotel in the heart of town, just two blocks from the Silver Queen Gondola.
Game on The big draw is a quartet of mountains that beckons with a year-round brand of excitement. Come winter, Aspen and skiing are synonymous. One lift ticket is good at any of Aspen’s four mountains. Free bus service with stops throughout town enables skiers to choose among them all. Aspen Mountain, a collection of rugged intermediate and heart-thumping advanced runs, is smack in the middle of town. Highlands, the local favorite, is only a couple of miles down the road. Buttermilk, just like it sounds,
Get
away
below A snow carver works during the Wintersköl Ice Carving competition. below right Fireworks add color to Aspen’s Wintersköl celebration.
Step lively Après ski, Aspen’s thriving culture and entertainment await at Wheeler Opera House. Expect glittering events and top-notch music year-round. Belly Up Aspen, the town’s best live music venue, routinely attracts huge musical acts. Popular and intimate, BUA has room for only 450 so there’s no time to dabble before buying tickets. Nonstop fun hits during the first weekend of January as Aspen hosts the annual “toast to snow,” aka Wintersköl. An eclectic weekend of festivities includes more than 30 events throughout the four ski areas. Aspen makes winter fun easy, which can be a blessing for the hip and humble. You’ll discover this in the unparalleled terrain, high-octane shopping and newsworthy cultural scene. Once you’ve experienced this welcoming playground, every other ski town will pale in comparison. sm
is smooth and easy going down; it’s the perfect beginner’s mountain. Finally, there’s the village of Snowmass, a huge family resort with enough room for snowboarders and skiers of all abilities. If downhill isn’t in your best interest, there are numerous other winter activities. The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies leads guided snowshoe tours at Aspen Mountain and Snowmass. Price is approximately $35 including snowshoes and poles. Or glide on one of Aspen’s more than 35 miles of free, groomed cross-country trails. Winter fly-fishing in the Frying Pan and Roaring Fork rivers boasts opportunities for a substantial catch often not present during the traditional trout-fishing season. And man’s best friend is ready to mush with you in tow, as Krabloonik sled dog teams can’t wait to pull you toward spectacular mountain views. Be sure to make reservations at Krabloonik Restaurant after the ride.
Belly up to the bar
www.limelightlodge.com
www.aspennature.org
www.snowqueenlodge.com
www.aspennordic.com
www.hotellenado.com
www.taylorcreek.com
www.mollygibson.com
www.krabloonikrestaurant.com
www.mountainchaletaspen.com
www.wheeleroperahouse.com
www.aspensnowmass.com
www.bellyupaspen.com
sHawneemagazine
All of this huffing and puffing results in an insatiable appetite. Aspen obliges with a range of restaurants to suit any palate and budget. For starters, Aspen’s best-kept local secret is simple. Nearly every restaurant has a bar where fabulous food is served from the regular menu at a fraction of the price. Consider L’Hostaria for homemade pasta, LuLu Wilson, an American fusion restaurant housed in an old Victorian, or Mezzaluna, with the best value in town: $7 pizzas and $3 beer or wine all night at the bar. Other affordable options include Bad Billy’s sushi; Little Annie’s Eating House, voted best burger in Aspen for years; or Woody Creek Tavern, the late gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson’s favorite haunt. Not to be forgotten is the historic Hotel Jerome’s J-Bar, where the Crud milkshake with a shot of bourbon has been a favorite since Prohibition.
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Dec 09 - Feb 10 December, all month
KidScape. A suburban
streetscape just for kids. Explore this hands-on suburb and meet some of Johnson County’s most talented citizens— past and present. Design your own fashions and entertain the crowd at Jason’s Theater. Be a part of planning KidScape’s future developments and care for babies in the Dayton Hospital. Illustrate a children’s book or play a round of golf at the KidScape Park. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Johnson County Museum, 6305 Lackman Road. (913) 715-2550. www.jocomuseum.org.
December 12
Gingerbread Creative Storytime. Listen to
magical gingerbread stories and create a gingerbread house to take home. Be sure to add a few embellishments to the gingerbread mansion the library is making for the Sweet Life at Rosehill Senior Center. 10:30 a.m.-noon, Shawnee Library meeting room, 13811 Johnson Drive. Call (913) 962-3800 to register. www.jocokids.org.
December 14
Kansas City Ukesters Club meeting.
Gatherings consist of playing ukes, yapping about ukes and learning about ukes. Members are encouraged to bring a new tune to share at each meeting. 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., basement of St. Pius Church, 5600 Outlook St. Also on January 11. www.kcuke.com.
January 3
Watch the game while the kids play. Get
the family together for an afternoon at PowerPlay - A Family Entertainment Center.
BEST BETS Mom and dad can see the Chiefs take on the Broncos at 3:15 p.m. on TV while the kids play. 13110 W. 62nd Terrace. (913) 268-7200. www.powerplaykc.com.
Kansas. Activities include a 5K Polar Strut, Post-Plunge Party and Award Ceremony. Registration opens at 9 a.m., strut begins at 10 a.m. and the plunge will commence at noon. 7900 Renner Road. (800) 444-9803.
January 30
Shawnee Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner. The chamber
kicks off the new year in style with a “Shawnee Extravaganza.” More than 500 Shawnee business leaders gather to celebrate the chamber and community’s progress. 7 p.m., Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center, 6100 College Blvd. Tickets available through the chamber. (913) 631-6545. www. shawneekschamber.com.
January 9
Read to a dog. Good
reading skills require practice in a friendly, nonthreatening environment. Come in with children ages 5-12 to read to the Pets For Life specially trained dogs. 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Shawnee Library, 13811 Johnson Drive. www.jocolibrary.org/ readtoadog.
January 12
Kids’ Craft. For moms,
February 6
Escape to Polynesia.
grandmas and anyone who spends time with children! You will learn how to make the crafts you’ve always wanted to try with your kids. 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Johnson County Museum. $15 provides materials and workshop. Register by January 10. 6305 Lackman Road. (913) 638-5508.
Join the Shawnee Library at the Shawnee Civic Center to escape the dreary Kansas winter. Enter the colorful world of Polynesia with Kainey Teel and her hula dancers. Experience the island culture through slides, discussion, language, food and dancing. Take home some island magic through books, DVDs and music of the islands. All ages welcome; registration required. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Shawnee Civic Center, 13817 Johnson Drive. (913) 962-3800. www.jocolibrary.org.
January 27
Theatre for Young America’s spring drama classes at Wonderscope Children’s Museum.
Sessions are one hour weekly for 11 weeks. Classes are available for children 3½ years of age through 12th grade. 5 p.m.-8 p.m., Wonderscope, 5700 King St. (816) 460-2083. www.tya.org.
February 9 and 23
January 30
Special Olympic of Kansas Polar Bear Plunge. Cool-weather
fanatics rush into the water at Shawnee Mission Swim Beach in an effort to help raise awareness for Special Olympics of
All events are subject to change.
Anime Night. Can’t
get enough anime? Interested in manga? Gather with friends and make new ones during anime screenings, shared drawings and snacks. Ages 12 and up. Space is limited. 4 p.m.-6 p.m., Shawnee Library meeting room, 13811 Johnson Drive. (913) 962-3807. www. jocoteenscene.org/. anime.
E-mail your upcoming events for the calendar to shawneemagazine@sunflowerpub.com
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