invitations
Contents
March-April 2009
EVENTS
FEATURES 32 Heart Ball
8 Magic Ball
34 Spring Garden Start-Up Catch the Fever!
38 Are You Living Your Best Life Now?
32
39 Invited Home –Creating a Timeless Kitchen
35 Four Stars for Lauren
35
8 12 Party Arty – Bloch on the Rocks
16 The Lyric Opera Guild Mid-Winter Break Party
44 The Fifth Annual “Red Hot
18 Snow Ball 24 The Candlelight Preview 30 Rose Brooks Center Cabaret
39
Night – Heart’s Desire”
44
43 Responses – John Cosentino 46 Kids in the Kitchen
Party Arty – Bloch on the Rocks
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The Candlelight Preview
24
6
IN EVERY ISSUE
ON THE COVER
Letter from Editor-in-Chief
Barbie and Michael Nolte at The Candlelight Preview photo by Jenny Wheat
47 Events Etc. A photo collage of the latest happenings
47
www.wheatphotography.com
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Paws for a Cause
50 Model Philanthropist Maid in Kansas City, Inc.
CVS • 13101 State Line Road • 13360 87th Parkway
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For the complete list visit www.byinvitationkc.com March/April 2009 • 5
haljaffe.com
From the Editor-in-Chief
I
It was a dreary, Saturday morning and I decided to take a break from working on the magazine and re-arrange/clean my 6 year old son Harmon’s room. After he spotted me with the trash bag and asked me what I was doing, I told him we Lesley Colvett were changing his room and he pleaded “No Mommy. I do not need a change. I like it just the way it is.” I knew this was going nowhere and opted to revamp his room on Monday when he was in school. This issue of by invitation includes two transformations. One is the renovation of Melissa and Dennis Thompson’s kitchen to better fit their lifestyle. Change was a good thing for them! The other transformation happens to be The Nelly Don Estate, which is the 40th Symphony Designers’ Show-
house. The Candlelight Preview party provided guests the opportunity to view the home before it is transformed and redecorated by designers. This change is a good thing because it is a long-running tradition that benefits the Kansas City Symphony. Another home that experienced change is the White House. This past December my husband and I enjoyed a truly remarkable experience as we attended a Holiday Party at the White House. As I enjoyed the sights and sounds of the season at our nation’s capitol, change crossed my mind because shortly after my visit a new presidential family would be moving in, making changes to transform it to be their home. Maybe I should have used the word “transform” with Harmon – would that have been more appealing? So what was the big deal - I was just going to move around a few toys, pack up a bag of old clothes…On second thought, I bet bulldoze would have piqued his interest.
Lesley
Volume 1
A Social MagazineNumber VI OWNER/PUBLISHER
Fred Harris Publisher@byinvitationkc.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Lesley Colvett Editor@byinvitationkc.com EDITOR
Tracy Green Tracy@byinvitationkc.com CREATIVE EDITOR
Anita Harris ART DIRECTOR
Donna Donald art@byinvitationkc.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Patty Satterly EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR
Heather Pratt Terri Murphy
Contributors
PHOTOGRAPHY
Bernie Concannon Jenny Wheat
Terri Murphy is a speaker, communication consultant, and author of five books, including one with Donald Trump. She is President of WomensWisdomNetwork.com. For more articles, podcasts and interviews visit www.WomensWisdomNetwork.com or email: Terri@TerriMurphy.com
SALES MANAGER
Christine Abraham Christine@byinvitationkc.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Mary Kolpin Di Topjon Jill Hilbrenner
by invitation Kansas City is a publication of By Invitation LLC Established 08.01.08
Jill Hilbrenner is a fashion and lifestyle writer who was born and raised in Missouri but now spends her time chatting with designers, directors and general innovators in London. Her writing has appeared most recently on the British arts-and-entertainment Web site LondonNet and in the national style magazine Metro.Pop. She is freelancing for a number of print and online publications while writing her first fashion book.
Party Photos may be purchased at www.byinvitationkc.com.
6 • www.
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For career opportunities email: publisher@byinvitationkc.com.
For event coverage call 816-916-7551 or email Editor@byinvitationkc.com. www.byinvitationkc.com by Invitation Kansas City Magazine is a complimentary publication in the Kansas City area supported by advertisers and dedicated to highlighting the social activities of citizens participating in Charitable and Civic events. Copyright © 2009 By Invitation, LLCAll Rights Reserved. This work and the rights contained herein are owned by the copyright owner and are protected by the copyright laws and other laws that protect intellectual property rights in the United States of America and other countries.Without limiting the right of copyright reserved by By Invitation, LLC, as the copyright owner, no part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including, without limitation, information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the copyright owner. By Invitation is a trademark of By Invitation, LLC. All rights reserved.
The Magic Ball
Sailing
“ On the High Seas” to Support the “Autism Connections Project”
Story by Tracy Green, photography by Jenny Wheat
Barbara and Joe Messner
T
Kansas City Young Matrons held their 2009 "On the High Seas" Magic Ball Benefit on January 24, 2009 at the Downtown Marriott. This is an every other year event whereby the KCYM select a different cause. This year, the beneficiary was the Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training for the funding of the “Autism Connections Project”. The KCYM’s felt that a more noteworthy cause could not be found for Autism touches so many lives. If families themselves are not affected, they most certainly have friends and love ones who are. The 91 year old organization was able to raise in excess of 100 thousand dollars for this project. Kansas City is fortunate to have this 300 member organization who are committed to making a difference.
Pat and A.J. Miller
Steve Faltermeier and Shawn Boyce
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Bette Grossman and Patti Gound
Debbie and R. Scott Beeler
Rachel Richardson and Jessica Bell
Bruce and Patti Gehring with Cindy and John Thesing
The Magic Ball
Bentley and Ben Messner
Alice and Peter Levy
John and Laura Reedy
Robert and Claudia Wolf with Tricia and Ted Wolfe
March/April 2009 • 9
The Magic Ball
John and Maraline Hayob with David and Andrea Hayob
Ellen and Mike Gill
Suzanne Orscheln, Linda and David Gentile, Patty Parsons and Betsy Nossman
10 • www.
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Bob and Teri Kehm
Chris and Sandy Elliott
Tracy and Lori McConnell with Pam and Scott Stephenson
Dorothy and Tom Lasiter
The Magic Ball
Mark Killen, Debbie Fink and Ann Killen
Kathy and Rick Bennett
Michelle and Matt Lewis
d n a d e s o p o r p e ” “Sh d e t p e c c he a Paula Varsalona and Michael Nolte proudly celebrate their “engagement” with parties on
Friday March 27 & Saturday March 28 5:00 - 8:00, Briarcliff Village Tented Fashion Event with Shows each evening
Bridal, Mother's and Cocktail Dresses by appointment 816-587-5575 Trunk show sale incentives for this partnering of two Kansas City favorites
March/April 2009 • 11
Party Arty - Bloch on the Rocks
Stephanie Gador and Evan Turner
Rob Harsh and Jennifer Janesko
Art P 12 • www.
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Amanda Myers and Kendall Smith
a True Philanthropic Gift
Story by Tracy Green, Photography by Jenny Wheat
Pictures and Art are worth a thousand words. That definitely was the theme of “Party Arty 2009: Bloch on the Rocks” at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. This was an evening when Young Pro-
David Nesbett and Lisa Curran
Jim and Kathy Burnett
fessionals came together for a fundraiser that supports the Museum’s commitment to be a free resource for arts education and public enjoyment. Not only were all the attendees
stylish themselves but they were also able to enjoy a live Color+Couture fashion show. The designs were all one of a kind haute couture made of various textile materials donated by local vendors.
Kim File, Kelly File, Nicole Streepy, Karry Klatt and Stephanie Burke
With the Museum as the backdrop for the eclectic fashion show, cool décor and art enthusiasts, the night was a true testament that Kansas Citians want art to be a philanthropic gift for all to enjoy.
Rez Halse and Sarah Whitten
Party Arty - Bloch on the Rocks
Joe Price
Beth Book Seiler and Barbara Freidman
Tricia Wu, Josh Ybarra and Tom Clark with Evan Wike
Nancy Lou and Mark Zimmerman
Ryan and Kate McElderry
March/April 2009 • 13
Party Arty - Bloch on the Rocks
Jessica Haynes and Mark Rosenwasser
Tami Jones and Ashley Gore
Casey Adams and Becky Atencio
Jennifer Ambrosio and Cindy Curry
Susan and Jason Waldron with Elaina and Jeff Cochran
Sarah Bain and Jeremy Mehrer
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Amanda Sangster and Jen Black with Kristy Mathes
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The Lyric Opera Guild Mid-Winter Break Party
Sarah Burke and Jennifer Ferte Rebecca and Robert Johnson
L
Jack and Jean Rosenfeld
John Wise and Al Schneider
yric Opera Guild
Frances and William Smith
Mid-Winter Break Party
Story by Lesley Colvett, Photography by Fred Harris
The Lyric Opera hosted a lovely luncheon at Californos in Westport to celebrate the season. It was a sunny, crisp day and Californos provided the perfect setting for the friends and supporters of the Lyric Opera Guild to gather and enjoy entertainment provided by vocalists Sarah Burke and Jennifer Ferte. President Richard Byrum welcomed all to the event and provided remarks.
Richard Williams and Pat Darrow
Richard Byrum
John and Innes Hale
Rosemary Kilker, Jack O’Benar and Caroline French
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Snow Ball
Anall forEnchanted and Magical Evening the Benefit of Catholic Charities Story by Tracy Green, photography by Jenny Wheat
T
There is probably no other organization more synonymous with philanthropy than Catholic Charities. And as far as philanthropic events, the 35th Annual Snow
Ball lived up to expectations and was truly an enchanted and magical evening. The gentlemen looked debonair in their black-tie attire while the ladies each
were stunning, and it was obvious that this is an event that is greatly anticipated
every year. As guests mingled, they also were treated with the opportunity to visit
with and even have their picture taken with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. And while this evening was indeed enchanted, the purpose of the night was never out of sight for once again this Gala raised in excess of 1.5 million dollars for the benefit of over 85 thousand children and families of all faiths in Northeast Kansas. Snow Ball has truly become one of Kansas City’s largest fundraising galas and while this year has come and gone, we are confident that families and friends are already looking forward to Snow Ball 2010!
Rita Laws with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and John Laws
Ken and Nancy Mellard
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Kelly and David Meiners
Stephen and Julie Zanone
Snow Ball
Eric Carter with Stacy and Steve Holland and Heather Carter
Bonne and Cliff Illig
Larry and Dana Rieke with Lindsey Krumbholz and Colby Rieke
Tim and Meredith Gaigals
Father Tony Lickteig and Father Mark Mertes
Ralph and Jane Lewis
March/April 2009 • 19
Snow Ball
Susie and Vern Gosden
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Jodie VanMeter and Dee Hebert
Alfonso and Maria Zarate
Jennifer and Jeff Kembel
Mary and Tom Garbach
Rachel and Kyle Myers
Ed and Missy Kuklenski
John and Bridget Murphy
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Snow Ball
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March/April 2009 • 21
Snow Ball
Wes and Jennifer Grammer with Andrea and Alex Lowe
Denice Hatfield and Jordan Martincich
22 • www.
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Jack and Kathy Newman
Andrea Ways Newman and Chris Newman with Sheila and Tom Weiford
Candlelight Preview
Story by lesley Colvett, photography Jenny Wheat
T
Splendor and Fashion at the Nelly Don Estate
The Kansas City Symphony Alliance Designers’ Showhouse is a highly-anticipated event each year, and the 2009 Showhouse is no exception. Rich in tradition, the Symphony Designers’ Showhouse is the longest continuousrunning showhouse in the country. This year’s Showhouse is the Nelly Don Estate located at 5236 Cherry Street. An elegant Candlelight Preview party took place Friday, February 6. According to Marti Miller, President-Elect Designer Showhouse, the Candlelight Preview is a party primarily for the membership and their guests to enjoy an evening in the "before stage" of the house before the designers work their magic. Renowned Wedding Planner, Designer and Author Michael Nolte and his wife Barbie served as Honorary Chairs for the Candlelight Preview Party. The pairing of Nolte and the Nelly Don Estate is quite ironic. Nolte and one of the home’s original owners, Nell Donnelly Reed, both share a success and passion for women’s fashion. Reed, who grew up in Kansas, sold more dresses in the 20th century than any other single person and became famous for her successful business, the Donnelly Garment Company.
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Marylou Turner, Linda Farchmin, Nora Hildrith, Marcia Tighe, Karen Hardcastle, Laurie Burgess and Marti Miller
Candlelight Preview
March/April 2009 • 25
Candlelight Preview
26 • www.
Lila and Michael Shultz
Heather and Terrence O’Malley
Eric Fladung and Karen Mills
Kevin Overstreet and Kim Wrench
Christina Martin and Richard Kappa
Laurie Burgess and Susie Shatz
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Linda Farchmin and Karen Hardcastle
Caroline Nolte
Candlelight Preview
Jayann and Terry Flood
Gilbert and Anne Mitchell
Sandy Carolan and Tricia Fredman
March/April 2009 • 27
Candlelight Preview
Tricia and Ron Fredman
Robert and Caryn Hastings
Karen and Kirk Hardcastle
Lee and Donna Ronson with Judy and Bob Barackman
Stacy Graves and Marti Miller
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Marylou and John Turner with Frank Cherrito
Candlelight Preview
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Rose Brooks Center Cabaret
Chaka Khan
Guests kicked up their Heels
to the Music of Chaka Khan
Story by Lesley Colvett, Photography by Jenny Wheat
T
Ten-time Grammy Award winning Chaka Khan headlined a spectacular evening of dining and dancing at Rose Brooks Center’s 22nd annual Cabaret. Guests danced the night away at Cabaret, which took place at the MarriottMuehlebach Tower. The successful party raised
Scott Steelman and Mary Farber
30 • www.
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Rod and Laura Martin
funds for Rose Brooks Center - a comprehensive domestic violence agency that provides a full continuum of care including prevention programming, crisis intervention and other supportive services to thousands of women and children each year.
Susan and Ron Miller
Rose Brooks Center Cabaret
Dayna and Larry Ellington
Cori Gilbert
Van Wolbach and Laura Shultz
Janet Redding and Joe Quinly
Mack and Tiffany Coleman
Fred and Shirley Pryor and Susan and Ron Miller with Kate Banks
Tracey Nash and Bob McGrath
Rebecca Caldwell and James Seay
Laura Bowman and Kristine Focht
Bruce and Jan Kank
March/April 2009 • 31
Heart Ball
Big Hearts for All Hearts S Story by Lesley Colvett, photography by Bernie Concannon
Saturday, February 21 marked the 22nd annual Heart Ball in Kansas City. More than 800 of the city’s leaders and American Heart Association supporters enjoyed this spectacular party to raise funds for American Heart Association-funded cardiovascular disease research that benefits women, children and families in the Kansas City area. Guests’ attire reflected the red-tie theme, and beautiful décor filled the Overland Park Convention Center. Medical Chair Couple for the event were Jenny and Dr. Richard Hopkins, and Chair Couple were Valerie and Rick Keeler. Burns & McDonnell served as the presenting partner, and Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics as the signature partner. “Although people often tend to think of heart disease as an older adult disease, there are thousands of children affected each year by this illness as well,” said Dr. Hopkins. “That’s why we at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics are so pleased to partner with the American Heart Association in sponsoring this year’s Heart Ball.”
Melissa Truitt, Cason Truitt and Mike Schnerre
Dr. Makeba Willaims and Damond Boatwright
Kevin and Ellen Harker with Michele McGuire and Dr. Keith Hodge
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Jonah, Valerie and Jonathan Rexin
Greg Orman, Brooke McClelland, Amy Davis and Grant Davis
Heart Ball
Valerie and Rick Keeler
Jon Jackson and Jackie Landahl
Angie Galindo and Laura Gorr
Susie Phillips, Courtney Alumbaugh and Sherrie Brady
Connie and Aaron Zack
Wanda and Steve Wilkinson, Jan Stallmeyer and Don Flora
Tom and Jamie Logan with Jennifer Overlease, Annette and Tim Small
Erin, Nick and Kean Meoli with Shani Crossen
March/April 2009 • 33
Feature
Spring Garden Start-Up Catch the Fever!
Stephanie Davis wrote and sings a catchy tune called “Talkin Harvest Time Blues.” Now is the time of year when the words from a verse in her song comes to mind… “…Visualize your garden, oh, so peaceful and serene
Until at last you close your eyes and slip into a dream about…Harvest Time”
W
While harvest time is yet months away, here in the Midwest, spring buds have formed and plants have begun to sprout. After a cold winter, we welcome these first signs of spring! We begin to think about springtime color, summertime garden parties, and enjoying longer daylight hours. To help the buds along, now is the time to fertilize annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. A little fertilizer goes a long way so be sure to water it in very slowly and completely about once a week, unless it rains. Set your sprinkler system to do this watering work for you and if you have a rain gauge, the automatic sprinkler system won’t run while nature does its own watering. Deadhead and bait for slugs and snails the cool season flowers like pansies and snapdragons you may have planted. Fill in open areas in your flowerbeds with warm season annuals like ageratum, alyssum, bedding begonias, lobelia, petunias, salvia and verbena. Divide perennials like chrysanthemums, daylilies and coreopsis while still semi-dormant so they will provide color in the summer and fall. Plant summer bulbs in fast draining soils premixed with a fertilizer. In honor of Arbor Day, plant deciduous trees and care for the ones already in the ground by removing support stakes and ties if the trees have already out grown their need for them. Prune trees before they leaf out. And for evergreen trees and shrubs, prune them to improve their look. We have created a nice private backdrop at our home by planting evergreens on the perimeter. By taking time to cut the new growth – the “candles” – from the tops of the trees, our trees have filled out instead of only growing taller. Now they provide a complete privacy screen. March and April provide lots of things to do in the garden and around our homes. Any work you have questions about, please contact me. We can assist you with any and all of your outdoors gardening needs.
Dave Heinen owns and operates Heinen Landscape & Irrigation, www.HeinenLandscape.com, a full-service design-build landscaping, lawn and plant care, specialty and seasonal, irrigation and drainage company. For more than 20 years, Heinen Landscape & Irrigation staff has cared for homes and businesses in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. Dave also currently serves as the President of the Hort NetWORK, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information, education and cooperative activities to the Green Industry. Visit www.HortNetWORK.org to learn more.
34 • www.
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By David Heinen
Four Stars for Lauren
Honoring the Memory of Restaurant Critic Lauren Chapin
Story by Lesley Colvett, Photography by Jenny Wheat
F
Friends, family and colleagues of Lauren Chapin gathered recently to honor the memory of Chapin, the talented Kansas City Star restaurant critic whose untimely death shocked the community. This tribute event, which was appropriately themed “Four Stars for Lauren”, took place at Boulevard Brewery and provided guests the decadent opportunity to dine on cuisine served by some of the city’s finest restaurants – The American Restaurant, Blanc Burgers + Bottles, Bluestem, The Capital Grille, Le Fou Frog, Hereford House, Jasper's, JJ's, La Bodega, M & S Grill, North, Café Verona, Ophelia's, 12 Baltimore Café - Hotel Phillips, Pierpont's, re:Verse, Room 39, Café Sebastienne, Michael Smith, The Classic Cup, Grinders, Shields Manor Bistro, Anthony’s, and The Webster House. During the event, many in attendance opened their hearts and wallets to honor Chapin’s memory by raising money for a college fund benefiting Chapin and her husband Timothy Finn’s two teenage daughters. You may still donate to the BrenMaren Fund c/o The Bank of Weston.
Shannon Hawkins and Kyle Kincaid
Marshall Roth and Joe Shirley
Tim Finn and Family
Jason Bowers and Alan Yedlin
March/April 2009 • 35
Four Stars for Lauren
Doug Frost and Megan Selig with Michael Turner
Colby Garrelts and David Crum
Katee McLean
36 • www.
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Wendy King and Katelyn Chapin
Lisa Suderman and Ari Ben
Tim and Kristen Phenicie
Linda Duerr and Jennifer Maloney
Four Stars for Lauren
Looking for a New Dish to Top off your Table Tonight?
story by Jill Hilbrenner
Lauren Chapin, the renowned food writer who helped educate the palates of many a local, was respected among Kansas City chefs for her ability to improve menus with honest criticism and praise cuisine without veering elitist. “She showed no pretention in her reviews and articles,” says Christopher Elbow, confectionary artisan of Elbow Chocolates. “She loved food on a basic, almost comfort level that almost anyone could relate to.” When Chapin reviewed Webster House’s new dinner
JH: How did you know Lauren Chapin, and what impact do you think she made on people in the Kansas City region? Charles d’Ablaing: She was a friend and a respected critic and will be missed. I think she had a very positive effect on the food in
offerings in November 2008, she wrote in the Kansas City
Kansas City. Good or bad reviews, it really
Star that “Executive Chef Charles d’Ablaing’s menu is ambi-
made chefs in KC step up their game and
tious, a mix of Asian fusion, grand European dishes and
got more people interested in the culinary
some nice riffs on traditional American cuisine.” Remember-
world.
ing her as a friend and an inspiration, Chef d’Ablaing served a full crowd at Chapin’s benefit in January. The Art Institute of
JH: What moved you to help out at the benefit?
Atlanta-trained food artist – formerly executive sous chef at
Charles d’Ablaing: I was motivated, one,
Figlio and Hotel Phillips and executive chef at Pearl Restau-
because she was a friend and two, it was
rant and Lounge – now opens his kitchen for one recipe that
just a wonderful way to pay our respects
would have pleased the palate of his late companion and
and show the city and her family how
tells why he knew he had to cook for her one last time.
much we appreciated her.
Christopher and Linda Elbow
Carmelized veal with mixed vegetables recipe submitted by Charles d’Ablaing
4 lb. 4 cups 1 1 cup 3 tbsp.
veal cheeks chicken stock sprig rosemary white wine tomato paste
1 large onion diced 2 cups celery, large diced 1 cup carrot, large diced 3 bay leaves 3 cloves garlic, chopped Salt and pepper to taste
Sear veal cheeks, fat-side down, until well caramelized. Remove from pan and add vegetables, bay leaves and rosemary. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes, then add remaining ingredients and return cheeks to pan. Cover pan with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F for 3 hours. Remove from oven, strain off all jus, and reduce over medium heat until thick. Return cheeks again, season to taste, and serve with your favorite sides. Charles d’Ablaing and Stephanie Dumler
March/April 2009 • 37
Terri Murphy is a speaker,
Feature
communication consultant, and author of five books,
Are You Living Your Best Life Now?
including one with Donald Trump. Pres. of WomensWisdomNetwork.com. For more articles/podcasts/interviews visit www.WomensWisdomNetwork.com or email: Terri@TerriMurphy.com
Story by Terri Murphy
I
I rarely watch daytime television, but due to some late arriving repair men, the television happened to be on and I overheard a tagline that caught my attention. The Oprah show was featuring several guests who were making a national commitment on television in front of thousands of people to begin this day to begin living their "best" life. The words "living your best life" struck me in a way that made me think for a minute. Why would anyone not want to make a conscious decision to "living" their own best life after being on the earth for some time? I thought about this most of the day and it occurs to me that so many of us are caught up in the daily grind of making a dollar and keeping up with the many demands of family, career, social, church, school, etc. that more often than not, "WE" get lost in the shuffle. In every case during the interviews, each person talked about how they neglected taking care of themselves to care for other "priorities" and were now suffering the consequences, and in the case of this particular program, the severe consequences of obesity and a deep personal issue of self care. In every interview, man or woman, it was evident that in each case, it was the denial of personal time. The rude awakening came as each person underwent a comprehensive physical where reality began to sink in. High blood pressure, excessive cholesterol counts, high blood sugar were just a few of the revelations of not taking care of self, and yet each of us has at one time or another made the same mistake.
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It became apparent that the ONLY way to take true care of others is to begin by taking care of ourselves. If we can't make time to exercise and practice healthy eating habits we rob ourselves of a quality of life that only we can provide. Starting this very
“It became apparent that the ONLY way to take true care of others is to begin by taking care of ourselves.” minute, how would you rate your "taking care of self" factor on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the best? If you are like most of us, you would be lucky to pull a 5 or a 6. I'm sure there are
critics out there saying that it would be easier to say than to do for those that have heavy burdens, but there is no "cheating" factor that plays well here. You either take care of yourself well, or you don't. At the end of the day, you are totally responsible for you. No one force feeds you doughnuts, or chains you to the sofa on weekends with a remote taped to your hand. The reality is that no one will call you a champion when you to take control of your life and live your best day. Why is it that women in particular give so much that they carve into their very core of health and often happiness? What makes us so willing to deny ourselves our best life so others might have theirs? It's time for your best life to kick in beginning with your own health, mental, physical and spiritual and begin this moment to live your own best life. This means setting boundaries to allow the time to take care of yourself with healthy food, a brisk walk, a fun lunch with an old friend, a few minutes of personal reading or just "sitting" time. You will be of little value if you can't be around to help those that love you, or worse, having to have them take care of you. So begin by learning how to say "no" more than you say yes, and change the way your day plays out and find the time for a healthier happier you. You will be much more attractive, much more fun to be around, and yes, happier! It’s finally time for you!
Invited Home
CReATING A TIMeLeSS KITCHeN
March/April 2009 • 39
Invited Home Story by Lesley Colvett, Photography by Jenny Wheat
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Melissa and Dennis Thompson have created a timeless kitchen in their Brookside home. After looking at many houses that offered more “generic designs” in the kitchen, the couple decided to purchase a home with character and renovate the kitchen. High-end custom cabinets, ample storage and special features enhance their lifestyle and make this a unique kitchen. Melissa enlisted the team at Portfolio Kitchen & Home to spearhead the project and create a masterpiece through exquisite custom cabinetry. “The majority of Melissa’s kitchen features beautiful custom cabinetry in Alder, richly stained in a ‘Bordeaux’ finish with a black glaze,” stated Geri Higgins, President and CEO of Portfolio Kitchen & Home. “All of the finishes - cabinets, sink, granite, backsplash, knobs - are exactly what I wanted,” said Melissa. Some of the special features Melissa knew she wanted in her dream kitchen include: a copper farm-
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house sink, cabinets in black and brown color scheme, and cabinets that are designed to look like furniture. Copper serves as accents throughout the kitchen. “I have always loved and collected copper,” stated Melissa. “I don't like a lot of clutter on the counter tops and wanted to hide my stand mixer, so we came up with a black piece with doors that open and slide back, and storage for everything that I need when I bake,” Melissa said. She also points out that there are roll-out shelves for mixing bowls, a cabinet with tray dividers for baking sheets, cutting boards and muffin tins, and a large drawer that holds measuring spoons, spatulas, and every other gadget imaginable. There is also shelving for small appliance storage - many convenient features to keep her organized in her kitchen.
Melissa Thompson enjoys her renovated kitchen that features custom cabinetry and plenty of storage.
Invited Home
The majority of Melissa’s kitchen features beautiful custom cabinetry in Alder richly stained in a “Bordeaux” finish with a black glaze. Select areas of cabinetry were finished with a black stain to compliment the black glazing on the Alder cabinetry. This combination of finish treatments on Alder gives Melissa’s kitchen a stylish and visually stunning look not only for today but one that will also stand the test of time.
Melissa loves classic, traditional styling and a beloved element of that is using copper as an accent. Her designer, Kira Satarova, from Portfolio Kitchen & Home made sure to accommodate Melissa’s love of copper by including a copper farm sink and open areas in the cabinetry design for Melissa to display some of her favorite copper accessories.
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Invited Home
The Thompson’s kitchen renovation took about two and a half months. Here are some guidelines from Melissa when planning a renovation: 1) Do your homework before you renovate. 2) Budget: Have a realistic idea of what everything is going to cost before you start. In other words, have as much of the finished product picked out before you complete your budget and make sure your contractor has accounted for everything not considered a "surprise" (termite or water damage when they get into walls and floors). 3) Make sure you communicate everyday with your contractor so they aren't making any changes or purchases on their own.
The granite bar area provides a perfect nook for serving appetizers and drinks during a gathering of friends.
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4) Interview different kitchen designers before making a choice. On our first meeting in the house, Geri and Kira walked around the entire house to get a feel for our style, asked a lot of questions about how we use the kitchen, and did some on the spot brainstorming that let me know they understood exactly what I wanted.
Responses
Favorite aspect of your job? The people. We’re not only in the food business; we’re in the people business. Also, dealing with both customers and employees and creating new store designs.
John Cosentino, Vice President of Cosentino's Food Stores Photography by Jenny Wheat
What is your most enjoyable time/moment of the day? In this business everyday is different. I enjoy it most when I can be productive.
Favorite spot in the city: The entire city… This is my hometown!
If you could be anywhere else in the world right now, where would you want to be? Somewhere hot playing golf.
Favorite movie: Rocky. Favorite restaurant: Avenues Bistro in Brookside. In your opinion, what is the best party in Kansas City? My house. Favorite vacation spot: Colorado, skiing with my family. Personal hero: My Father. He is a professional groceryman! Learning the business from him has been an honor. Favorite quote/motto: “We’re not only in the food business; we’re in the people business.” One thing you can’t live without: My family. Hobbies: Golf, exercise and being with my kids. What do you like to do on the weekends? Watch my kids play sports. They definitely have more ability than I ever did.
Where do you like to take out-of-town guests? Downtown. I am so proud of our downtown!
Do you have any collections? No collections, just a lot of memories.
Favorite sport to play: football. Favorite sport to watch: Besides my kids’ sports, football. Dream job: I have it! Being part of a close family operation. Favorite Ice Cream: Our Downtown store makes the best caramel gelato!
March/April 2009 • 43
The Fifth Annual “Red Hot Night – Heart’s Desire”
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Chris and Melissa Wood
Mike and Marlys Haverty
Jeff and Jamie Berg with Betsy and Jim Gamble
5th Annual
ed Hot Night – Heart’s Desire
More than a thousand big-hearted
Story by Lesley Colvett, photography by Fred Harris
supporters of Children’s Mercy Hospital
and Clinics attended a Valentine’s Day celebration. It was a spectacular sight
of red and white – red table cloths,
women donned in red, red flowers, and
red and white illuminating the ballroom. The party was given by the Hands & Hearts auxiliary of Children’s Mercy, which supports the children’s health care facility’s mission of providing top quality health services to all children in
Brian and Stacie Prosser
Marc and Teri Maun with Mary Beth and Dennis Welzenbach
the community, region and nation – regardless of the ability to pay. The festive evening included live entertainment by The KC All Stars band, and comedian and sitcom star Rob Riggle served as MC. Mike and Marlys Haverty served as Honorary Chairs of this red-hot event. 44 • www.
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Geoff and Jennifer Reno with Stephanie and Justin Meyer
Scott Westlake and Lauren Haake
The Fifth Annual “Red Hot Night – Heart’s Desire”
Dustin and Peggy Wiens with Jonathan and Valerie Rexin Walter and Jon Porter with Kim and Nikki Newton
Tia and Aaron Alexander Sandra Eddy Huff, Bob Huff and Leslee Smith
Derek and Jamie Bolen with Ski and Mechelle Smokorowski
Hillary and Matt Mason
Rob and Doris Rogers, Abby Sander and Andrew Teigem
Renee and Chip Robertson
Monique Exposito with Ken and Kathy O’Renick
Jim Wadella and Catherine Lufkin
March/April 2009 • 45
kids in the Kitchen Feature
Empowering Young Minds to Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices he goal of the Junior Leagues' Kids in
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the Kitchen initiative, which is sup-
ported by The Association of Junior
Leagues International Inc., is to empower youth to make healthy lifestyle choices and help reverse the growth of childhood obesity and its associated health issues. The initiative, which began in 2006, engages kids in the preparation of healthy meals and educates them and their parents regarding nutrition and healthy choices. Junior Leagues in more than 255 locations provide lessons and demonstrations related to preparation of healthy meals and snacks in partnership with local community organizations, chefs and nutritionists. For more information visit: kidsinthekitchen.ajli.org
Fruit Smoothie Prep time: 5 m inutes. Difficulty : Medium
Ingredients: 1½ cups of ice ½ cup strawbe rries, frozen (th awed) or fresh ½ banana ½ cup peaches, blueberries, rasp berries or othe ¼ cup frozen o r fruit of your ch range juice con oosing centrate, thawe 1 tablespoon h d oney 1 tablespoon su gar (optional)
a
Directions: 1. Blend all ingr edients in a ble nder 2. Serve in 16 o unce glass Makes 1 servin g. Nutrition inform ation (serving size: 1-1 6 ounce glass): Calories: 334 Fat: 0.8g Carbohydrates: 84.1g Sugar: 74.2g Protein: 3.7g Fiber: 4.9g Sodium: 15mg
a a a
Recipe source: Kristen & Nikki Jacobs, Junior League of South Brevard, FL
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Events Etc. A PHOTO COLLAGE OF THE LATEST HAPPENINGS "And They Call it Puppy Love..." Paws For a Cause benefiting Wayside Waifs Hosted by Brookside Barkery & Bath Sponsored by BIAO Magazine
Great Italian Design for All Portfolio Kitchen & Home hosted “Pasta for the People” to introduce the newest Italian kitchen from Milan. Guests brought pasta to share with the local food bank.
Andrew and Lynn Kaufman with Howard L. Kaye
Paul Spurgeon, Mark Wall and Mike Jones
Grace and Selene Braeckel
Bird and Craig Piburn
Kira Satarova, April McKay and Lindsay DeViney
Cathy and David Basse
Sunflower House Lola and Eric Hoch
Tchenkha and Andrew Jablonowski
27th Annual Valentine’s Day Gala at Overland Park Sheraton
Katie - Erin Bassi and Amy Schlatter Bob Westcott and Andrea Abrams
Judi Allison and Mary Still
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Kansas City Kidney Champions
Events Etc. A PHOTO COLLAGE OF THE LATEST HAPPENINGS
benefiting the National Kidney Foundation serving Kansas and western Missouri Photos by Don Henning
An Evening Celebrating Women's Health and Wisdom
Elizabeth Wentz and Beth Polsinelli
4th Annual Girls' Night In The University of Kansas Hospital
Brian Swirk and Pat Boyd
Trina Schulz, Sharon Trillo and Lynn Heley-Ford Michelle Fryder, Katie Van Luchene, Becky Dunn and Jenny Kincaid
Sharon Barry and Jody Hassenflu
Allen Caviar and Mark Johnson
Peggy Person and Ginny Pugh
Jennifer Boman, Staci Giudicessi, Candace Koba and Vanessa Valentin Bret and Jenny Rhodus and Pat Dunn
Classic Escoffier Dinner Champagne and Caviar Reception honoring Michel Escoffier, greatgrandson of the "king of chefs and chef of kings" Auguste Escoffier at Caenen Castle.
Mary Birch, Toni Marengo, Debbie Callahan, Shirley Allenbrand and Stacy Parkinson Dorothy Cross, Linda Downing and guest of honor - French chef Michel Escoffier
Jim Bell and Jane Zieha Bell Nancy and Roger Neighbors with RenĂŠe Kelly Cara Newell, Kim Kittoe, Mary Stitt and Melissa Rubel
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Practice for "Dancing with the Stars" to be held March 28, benefiting Cristo Rey Kansas City High School
Idiots’ Golf Open Benefiting Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care
Photo by William Berndt
Don Allen, Luke Ungashick, Steve Pierce and Dan Tarwater
Andrew Birgensmith practices with dance partner
5th annual Bayou Bash Mardi Gras Party benefiting Horizon Academy
Beth Babb, Julie Jasumback, Roseanna Dillon and Cindy Perry
Laura Maine, Natalie Upp & Eric Person
Pat Pierson and Evie Curtis
Jim and Mary Jo Ward
Golfers Terry Ray and Darren Tehven
Ruthann Bean, Steve Yonke, Jeff Tull, Kirk Kinsinger, Daryl Wicken and Chris Fleming
March/April 2009 • 49
Model Philanthropist
“Cleaning for a Reason” Maid in Kansas City, Inc. and Making a Difference
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Maid in Kansas City, Inc., a cleaning company
This past year,
that offers detailed residential, commercial and construction cleaning services in the Kansas City
Maid in Kansas City, Inc.
Metropolitan, Mission Hills and Leawood areas, is making a difference in the lives of women who
Founder and President
are undergoing treatment for cancer. This past year, Maid in Kansas City, Inc.
Carol Semaan and her business
Founder and President Carol Semaan and her business became a part of “Cleaning for a
became a part of
Reason” – a program that is based on a national concept that provides benevolent cleaning
“Cleaning for a Reason” –
services by offering free cleaning so that the patients can focus on their health.
a program that is based on a
“I am very proud and honored to be working with this organization and blessing women,”
national concept that provides
stated Semaan. According to Semaan, Maid in Kansas City also supports the local boys and
benevolent cleaning services
girls clubs where she feels their participation “directly impacts the lives of our youth giving
by offering free cleaning
them hope, love and self esteem.” They also support private schools in the community.
so that the patients
For more information on Cleaning for a Reason and other partners supporting this
can focus on their health.
program visit www.cleaningforareason.com.
Maid in Kansas City, Inc. (913) 26-CLEAN, (913) 262-5326 For more information on Maid in Kansas City, Inc. and its services visit www.maidinkansascity.com
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