Johnson County Lifestyle April 2014 by City Lifestyle

Johnson County april 2014

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

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Free Libraries encourage reading all over town

A Stunning Green Home At Home in Falcon Valley 5 Star Golf in Nebraska Johnson County Picker

The Business of Giving Back In February I had the pleasure of meeting some of the students involved in “Rising Stars.” This is a group of aspiring young, gifted men and women who have been given an opportunity to pursue their educational goals formerly out of reach for them. Someone with a dream said to themselves I want to give back and make it possible for some young men and women to achieve the impossible. Therefore a plan was introduced and the group was put to a task of renovating a vehicle, which has in a short while became legendary. The restoration of a Karmann Ghia began and soon it was outfitted with an electric engine which had a range of over 500 miles. As you would assume interest has grown and the vehicle has been driven across the entire country. What an achievement and what an investment in the lives of those who did not have any hope of educational Louis Faller General Manager

prowess. I don’t know about you but a few dollars invested in these young folks sure seems to pay dividends which will bring about a handsome return. It’s just one more example of finding a way to give back!

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Editor's Letter

Spring has sprung! Finally! Has a group of people ever been more ready for the grass to turn green and the first bulbs to bloom? This past winter was hard on many of us and I’m sure having the kids home from school day after day combined with what seemed like an endless number of grey days that topped off with temperatures in the single digits have made us all look forward to spring more than we have in the past.

april 2014 publisher Steven Schowengerdt | Steven@LifestylePubs.com editor Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com chief financial officer | DeLand Shore

director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Carrie Brophy chief sales officer Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com

So green is the theme for this month’s issue in more ways than one. You may have noticed a slightly different look and feel to the magazine now in your hands. We’ve worked with our printers in Lawrence to consider different paper finishing processes that are slightly more environmentally friendly than others. We invite you to let us know what you think of the matte finish.

advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch | MStauch@LifestylePubs.com Troy Coup | TCoup@LifestylePubs.com Elizabeth Noel | ENoel@LifestylePubs.com advertising director | Mike Baugher

I attended an event recently which showcased many area vendors who want to encourage us all to reduce, reuse and recycle just a little bit more. From energy studies of our homes to curbside glass recycling service, from solar panels for the home to programs which encourage kids to walk or bike to school, it was a most informative and inspirational evening. I came home more motivated than ever to continue to work to reduce my family’s carbon footprint, so to speak. This month I encourage you to make a green resolution of your own. Pledge to do one thing differently in your home or place of work that will positively impact the environment. Maybe you’ll reduce your use of bottled water or place a trash bin in your kitchen just for recyclables. Or maybe you’ll start a curbside glass recycling program for your neighborhood homes association. Be it big or small, every step towards reducing, reusing and recycling is a step in the right direction.

production director | Christina Sandberg ad coordinator | Cyndi Vreeland regional art director | Sara Minor executive assistant | Lori Cunningham contributing writers Lisa Allen, Heather Trent Beers, Katherine Bontrager, Ann Butenas, Lauren Claflin, Lisa Gartland, Rachel Hodgson, Rebecca Murphy, Denise Snodell, Kimberly Winter Stern, Tom Strongman, Tracy Sullivan, Jenny Wolff contributing photographers 4 Ft. Photoz, Lisa Gartland, Tom Strongman, Jenny Wolff application architect | Michael O'Connell

Enjoy the sunshine neighbors, and I’ll see you around town!

it director | Randy Aufderheide Published monthly, subscriptions are also available for $22 for 1 year, $39 for 2 years by visiting JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com

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

on the cover Little Free Libraries are popping up

all over our area. Read more about this nation wide book sharing phenomenon on page 36.

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7373 West 107th Street, Suite 201 Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com Johnson County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Johnson County’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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April 2014

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Home Matters

Locally Owned

Open House

42 Terrific Teacher 44 Your Neighbor 48 Star Students 52

Giving Back

54 Parent's Corner

32 Course of Dreams

Driver's Notebook

Sold Properties

60 Lifestyle Calendar

World-class golf in Nebraska makes an intoxicating weekend.

66 Parting Thoughts

36 Leave a Book, Take a Book

Promoting literacy and community one Little Free Library at a time.

38 An Era of Egg Hunts Unites Generations

Westwood neighbors treasure tradition.

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Good Times

Cinderellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ball 2014 More than 300 girls and their dads enjoyed a magical evening of dinner, dancing and visits with princesses. Sponsored by Shawnee Parks and Recreation.

A Green Affaire, Inaugural Event for Green Wish KC Locally sourcing restaurants and Somerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery treated attendees to delicious local fare to support environmental charities KC Food Circle, Kansas City Community Gardens, Bridging the Gap, Jerusalem Farm and the Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn more at GreenWish.com.

Anita Long & Gail Keller

Dale Cordes & Kim Taggart

Green Wish Board: Stephanie Kelly, Stephanie Cherra, Joe Sjuts, Maria Holiday & Chad Elliot

Jim & Carol Skelton

Kristin Riott, Amy Smith & Jay Antle

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10 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

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Good Times

Lifestyle Publications Meet & Mingle Event at EBT Business owners and community leaders joined the Lifestyle Publications team for a quarterly networking event and enjoyed delicious refreshments provided by EBT.

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21000 Switzer Rd., Bucyrus, KS 66013 • Ryan Strand • Elise Worman 816.547.0602 • info@liberty-meadows.com www.Liberty-Meadows.com 12 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

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Around Town YNK Meals Expands Meal Delivery Locally-owned company YNK Meals recently launched a new program to extend the reach of its gluten-free, fresh meal delivery service. This Affiliate Program allows any company interested in offering meal delivery to partner with YNK Meals to bring this service to their existing customers. The program provides affiliate companies, like 68’s Inside Sports of Overland Park, with their own websites that allow their customers to order meals delivered to their homes. Each website is branded uniquely—the 68’s Inside Sports site is “68’s Inside Sports Meals” at 68Sports. EasyMeals.us—and operates under the YNK Meals umbrella. All meals are prepared from scratch in the local YNK Meals kitchen and delivered by YNK Meals on behalf of the affiliate company. YNK Meals expects this new program to take off quickly, adding as many as 20 or more new affiliate companies by the end of the year. For more information about YNK Meals Affiliate Program or gluten-free fresh meal delivery, go to YNKMeals.com.

Olathe Cake Decorate Wins National Attention Local cake artist, Shannon Bond of The Crumb Coat, was recently chosen as one of five cake designers nationwide to design a cake for a contest sponsored by Cake Central, the world’s largest online cake decorating community. Bond’s cake won the contest and was published in the December 2013 issue of Cake Central Magazine. The magazine editors were so impressed with Bond’s artistic cake design, they asked her to create another cake for their February issue. “It has been such an amazing experience, especially as a new cake designer, to be asked to participate with such amazing artists from all over the country,” says Bond. The mom of six got her start designing cakes for her children’s birthdays and opened her Olathe home-based bakery in June of 2013. Bond has been praised for her creative designs and use of textures in both buttercream and fondant. TheCrumbCoat.com

St James Academy Gatorade Soccer Player The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with USA TODAY High School Sports, selected Steven Enna of St. James Academy as its 2013-14 Gatorade Kansas Boys Soccer Player of the Year. The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Enna as Kansas’s best high school boys soccer player. He is now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year award to be announced in May. The 6-foot-2, 170-pound senior forward scored 34 goals and passed for 13 assists this past season, leading the Thunder (15-5-1) to the Class 5A state championship game. An All-American selection by the National Soccer Coaches Association St. James Academy senior Steven Enna 14 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

of America, Enna is a three-time First Team All-State honoree. All while maintaining an A average and volunteering in the community.

A Rainbow of Repurposed Furniture Everyone needs a little color in their life. Stop by and browse the unique, one-of-a-kind selections for your home offered by Abode at 4702 Mission Rd. Their goal is to provide an addition to your home that brings a smile to your face every day. They offer one of a kind repurposed furniture and decor items, candles and pillows made with love and many items that can be customized with your monogram or name. The owners are sisters and best friends who love to share their passion with you to make your house a home. Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment.

New Companies Offer Curbside Glass Recycling Many of us have been hauling our empty glass bottles and jars to purple dumpsters all over the city for many years in order to make sure our glass is recycled. Two new companies make it even easier for all of us to recycle our glass. For a low monthly fee, these companies offer weekly or bi-monthly or monthly pickup from your curb. They’ll even provide the plastic tub for your garage and they offer the service to businesses and restaurants as well. Special discounts are available to homes associations. Atlas Glass (AtlasGlassKC.com) services Johnson County north of 435 while KC Curbside Glass (KCCurbsideGlas.com) offers services communities to the south of the highway. No excuses. Glass recycling is easier than ever before.

TRIUMPH OVER TRAGEDY 5K SUPPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS The KLL Memorial Foundation offers scholarships to young adults who have lost a parent to cancer. Since 2008, the Foundation has committed over $65,000 dollars to this goal. Fundraising is primarily realized through the proceeds from the Annual Triumph Over Tragedy 5K. As an established foundation with low overhead, 99 percent of race entry fees go directly to scholarships for inspiring students who have had to overcome the loss of a parent to cancer. They rely on the support of individuals and area businesses to help fund their programs. Their 2014 goal is to raise more than $75,000. Please join us at Garmin International on Sunday, May 4, for a professionally certified and timed family fun event. With your help we can truly make a difference in the lives of young people who have been touched by cancer. KLLScholarshipFund.org

Dancing with a Mission Gala Love to dance? Love to support a phenomenal cause and give back to those in need right in your own community? Then put on your dancing shoes and mark your calendar for the social event of the year. The World Outreach Foundation of Kansas City (WOFKC) is excited to present its “Dancing with a Mission” Gala, to be held at the Overland Park Sheraton on Saturday, May 10, 2014. This star-studded event featuring many local celebrities promises to be a night to remember. Enjoy cocktails, a silent auction, dinner, and a dance competition, followed by time to dance the night away.

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Around Town Since 2004, WOFKC has provided healthcare services to developing countries and is now serving those individuals who struggle with access to health care services right here in Kansas City, providing a reliable medical home for the homeless. For more information, call 816.560.9379 or go online at Dancing WithAMission.org and WorldOutreachFoundation.org.

Walk for Children’s Cancer Cure The 2014 Kansas City CureSearch for Children’s Cancer Walk will take place on Saturday, May 17 at CommunityAmerica Ballpark with registration beginning at 8 a.m. and the walk ceremony at 9 a.m. All are welcome to help raise awareness of childhood cancer. Registration and additional information can be found at CureSearchWalk.org/KansasCity. For event questions contact Eric Robinson, CureSearch Community Development Manager, eric.robinson@curesearch.org or 240.235.2240.

Corner Bakery Cafe Opens at Corbin Park Corner Bakery Cafe recently celebrated the opening of a new cafe at Corbin Park in Overland Park. This location marks the second in the state of Kansas. Owned and operated by Café Foods, Inc., who has plans to open 11 cafes in the greater Kansas City market over the next six years. Corner Bakery Cafe is a fast-casual restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The made-to-order food is delivered fresh to your table with a price point of $0.99-$8.99. Corner Bakery Cafe is recognized for its unsurpassed catering experience delivering signature, made-to-order breakfasts, lunches and dinners for any occasion. Founded on a philosophy of creating a place to relax and gather with family and friends, Corner Bakery Cafe offers a casual atmosphere featuring innovative, seasonal menu options ranging from hot breakfasts and signature panini to handcrafted salads, sandwiches and mouthwatering sweets. 913.955.2370 CornerBakeryCafe.com.

Balloon Festival Moves to Kansas Speedway Colorful hot air balloons will take to the sky at the Kansas Speedway when the U.S. Bank Midwest Balloon Festival takes place there August 8-10. Previously held at the Great Mall of the Great Plains, the Festival will cover approximately 50 acres to the west of the Speedway’s grandstand. “We are the perfect backdrop for this signature Midwest event which is expected to draw tens of thousands of people from not only across the Metro, but across the country,” says Patrick Warren, president of Kansas Speedway. “Imagine our grounds dotted with more than 50 brightly colored balloons which will, one by one, take flight over the Speedway and across the Kansas landscape. It will be breathtaking!” The annual event features balloon festival staples such as mass balloon ascents, food vendors, traditional and tethered balloon rides, children’s events, a carnival and evening balloon glows. Advance tickets go on sale online at MidwestBalloonFest.org and all area Hy-Vee locations on May 26.

Outdoor Laser Tag Opens at Paradise Park

Food from the Bar

A new golf course search engine, PlanMyTournament.com, connects golf courses with golf tournament planners. There is no other website like this currently available to serve the $68 billion golf industry. After a year of planning and website development, PlanMyTournament.com is now available and allows anyone to search for a golf course based on geographic area then displays information about the course including tournament planner information, business details, and golf tournament planner ratings and reviews. PlanMyTournament.com is focused on providing value for the tournament planner. Tournament planners with a registered profile can review a golf course, access educational articles and downloadable templates to aid the tournament planning process. Golf courses can claim their page to add photos and provide specific tournament information to better educate tournament planners about their facilities.

What do you call hundreds of our area’s most prominent lawyers helping our local food pantries? Food from the Bar! Join the legal community to fight hunger during the month of April. Food from the Bar collects donations for Cross-lines food pantry. Kansas City area firms uniting to fight against hunger are: Berson Law Group LLP, Commercial Law Group, P.A., Foulston Siefkin, LLP, Beam-Ward, Kruse, Wilson, Wright & Fletes, LLC, Martin, Pringle, Oliver, Wallace & Bauer, LLP, The Mdivani Corporate Immigration Law Firm, LLC, Walden & Pfannenstiel LLC, Dentons, the Kansas and Missouri Federal courthouses, Kansas Women Attorneys Association, Association of Women Lawyers of Kansas City and the International Women’s Insolvency & Restructuring Confederation, Midwest Region. Help guarantee full stomachs for our children and elderly. To donate, contact Susan Berson at sberson@ banktaxlaw.com.

16 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

The big idea for Paradise Park’s latest attraction began with the dream to totally transform the classic outside games of HideN-Seek and Tag-You’re-It into modern high-tech fun -- completely outdoors. The dream became a reality when Paradise Park paired a 5,000-square-foot area with state-of-the art gaming equipment. Harmless laser beams mean no pain and no bruises like paintball. No paint and no mess, either. Outdoor Laser Tag is located outside next to the Children’s Interactive Garden and the Miniature Golf course on the east side of the facility. Outdoor Laser Tag is played in daylight and at night with 12 to 18 players on the field for each game. This high tech fun involves running, jumping, rolling, and dodging for cover. Games inspire motion that keeps players healthy and active. Paradise-Park.com

New Website Connects Golf Courses and Tournament Planners

Bunny Now-April 19

Bring your family to Town Center Plaza for a special photo opportunity with real bunnies and baby chicks. Photos are by appointment only, please. Schedule your appointment today at jordanphotography.com.

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Meadowbrook Country Club Recently hosted an evening of dining, mingling and celebrating the winners of the local REMY (Remodel of the Year) for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry for 2013. Arlene Ladegaard, Certified Interior Designer, was showered with two awards for designs and plans of a lower level finish from architectural plans to selections. This beautiful award-winning project won Gold All Star and the highest award in her category Best of Show. The REMY Awards are quite an honor to receive, winners are judged by another NARI chapter in Dallas. Ladegaard, founder and principal designer at Design Connection Inc., has won many awards for her exquisite designs. Her award-winning interior design portfolio showcasing her extensive range of designs can be viewed at Design ConnectionInc.com.

Historic Sites Now Open in Independence This is no joke: Tuesday, April 1 marks not only the harbinger of Spring, but also the season opening of many notable historic sites in Independence. “After the winter we have been having here in the Midwest, the beginning of April offers the promise of greener grass, birds singing louder and the historic sites of Independence opening,” says Cori Day, tourism director for the City of Independence, Mo. “April is always a great time to visit.” Bingham-Waggoner Estate

at 313 W Pacific Avenue 816.461.3491 BWEstate.org 1859 Jail & Marshal’s Home Museum

at 217 N Main St. 816.252.1892 JCHS.org Vaile Mansion at 1500 N. Liberty 816.325.7430 VaileMansion.org

PREPPING FOR THE ACT & SAT The educational specialists at College Nannies + Tutors have several dates planned for ACT and SAT practice tests at their Overland Park Learning Center. Taking the test early can help identify areas where improvement is needed. High school students interested in taking the tests must pre-register for the test they wish to take by calling their office no later than the Wednesday before the practice test, Students should plan to arrive by 8:30 a.m. to fill out the registration form and the test starts promptly at 8:45. Students may bring two number 2 pencils, a graphing calculator, scratch paper and a bottle of water. Practice tests are scheduled for April 12 and June 14. For details or to register, call 913.754.6366.

CELEBRATE 25

Revel with us in traditional black-tie attire to commemorate 25 years and three new species of cold-weather penguins at the zoo. You will enjoy cuisine from Kansas Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest restaurants, live music and more. Tickets now available. JUNE 6, 2014 | 816.595.1234 | WWW.JAZZOOKC.ORG PRESENTING SPONSOR

April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 19

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Home Matters

Gardening for the Five Senses Article Woodrow D. Weasel

e all garden for different reasons. Gardening for our senses is one unique approach. Here are some ideas for how to incorporate such an approach.

They come in a variety of vivid, bright colors and their blooms open and close when pinched at the “jaw.” Taste

Sight

Gardens can be beautiful visual art, and using some ideas from the art world can really enhance yours. One great tool is the color wheel, available at any craft store. To create a bold, dramatic effect, try planting in complementary colors. These are any colors opposite each other on the wheel. Take the color wheel with you when you go to choose your plants. For example, when choosing annuals, select a flower color you like then locate the opposite color on the wheel and find other florae in that hue. Or try an analogous color scheme—a cluster of three adjacent colors on the wheel. Sound

With the hustle and bustle of our lives, silence can be a beautiful sound. Simply sitting in the quiet of a garden can be music to our ears. If you want to add the twinkling tones of nature’s songbirds, attract birds by providing consistent food, water and cover. A simple, shallow (no more than 3” deep) bird bath is a great way to furnish water. Delicate wind chimes or a bubbling fountain are alternative ways to add a special sound to your blossoming garden space. Touch

As you plan for the sense of touch, think “petting zoo for plants” and ask yourself if the texture of the plant is interesting and durable. One of the most delightful plants to feel is Lambs’ Ear. Its large leaves are densely covered in silky, white hairs and feel like velvet. Snapdragons are another playful flower that is amazing to touch. 22 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

It can be a joyful experience to pluck something off a plant and eat it in nature. Berries are a sweet favorite, though they require a lot of sun and can take years to establish. In the meantime, there are so many types of mint that are fun to eat. Planting several different kinds and then taste-testing them is a treat. Many types of flowers are also edible, such as marigold, nasturtiums, pansies and peonies. Be careful, though, because not every flower is edible. Smell

There’s nothing like the surprise of encountering a beautiful scent as you walk through a garden. It’s fun to try to identify where it’s coming from. Honeysuckle and lilac are two of nature’s most permeating scents. Honeysuckle has wonderful sweet smell, and it flourishes in sunny areas with a rock wall, trellis or fence to grow on. It also attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and bees so vital to all botanical life. Lilac is also a pleasant smell, and comes in many varieties. The Korean Dwarf Lilac is an easy-to-maintain tree-like bush in the shape of a popsicle. The skinny trunk is topped by a puff of greenery with clusters of powerfully-smelling lavender blooms in the spring. No matter what type of garden you grow, consider your senses as you plan and plant! It makes sense!

Woodrow D. Weasel is the resident gardening expert for Garden Weasel tools. Find more gardening tips from Woodrow at GroundBreakingTips.com. Garden Weasel also offers a variety of helpful tools at GardenWeasel.com.

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introductory rates and variable rate may be available for higher LTVs. Contact the credit union for details. Introductory HELOC rate as low as 1.99% APR for the first year, then the APR will vary for the remaining life of the loan. As of 3/1/14, this variable HELOC APR would have been 4.00% APR for 80% LTV. For the HELOC, the Prime Rate is subject to a minimum of 4.00%, and the maximum APR is 18%. Home Equity Loan rate also available as low as 3.75% APR. Rates are based on the Prime Rate published in the Wall Street Journal Money Rates Table plus a margin. Stated HELOC rate of 1.99% APR and Home Equity Loan rate of 3.75% APR include a 0.25% discount for Automatic Payments from a CommunityAmerica Checking account and a 0.25% discount for enrolling in CommunityAmerica’s Online Banking and eStatements. Automatic payments must be set up when loan is opened. Home value is based on a full appraisal, which is required, at the member’s expense. Property must be a single family home and owner-occupied. Property insurance will be required. Line amounts range from $10,000 to $100,000. Offer not available to members who have an existing Home Equity Loan or HELOC with us. Early loan termination fees may apply. Contact a tax advisor concerning tax-deductibility. Home Equity products available in Kansas and Missouri only. Kansas residents are required to pay state mortgage tax of $2.60 per $1,000 of mortgage filed. Limited time offers subject to credit approval. Offers subject to change or may expire without notice. Promotion ends 10/31/14.

Home Matters

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e asked our friends at Seasonal Concepts to tell us a little bit about the big trends in accessorizing our outdoor living spaces. Consider the ways you might incorporated these into your backyard paradise.

upholstery fabric. Its cornerstone feature is its ability to quickly dry, taking the worry out of having comfortable cushioned furniture outdoors. Now people can spend more time enjoying life outdoors and less time waiting for their cushions to dry.

Outdoor Kitchens

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Outdoor gourmet kitchens are one of the largest growing categories in outdoor living. Things such as wood fired ovens and smokers add a gourmet feel to cooking outdoors. Like indoors, everyone loves to gather in the kitchen. A well designed, well-appointed outdoor kitchen truly brings the indoors outdoors!

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A Greener Kitchen

Great storage products to color your kitchen

any of us go to great efforts to limit our exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals in our everyday lives. One area that may have been a challenge to detoxify is the area of food storage. Glass covered glass dishes can be a challenge to store and always seem to be chipping. One new product seems to offer the perfect solution. Wean Green was founded by Melissa Gunning in 2009. She was unable to find glass containers to store her homemade baby food so she took matters into her own hands and created the first Wean Green cube. Now in 2014, Wean Green offers a wide variety of containers in eight different sizes in four fun, bright colors. These eco-chic tempered glass food storage containers are made from 100 percent recyclable glass and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are five times stronger than regular glass and are shatterproof if dropped. Unlike harmful plastic containers which can become stained or lose their shape, they do not omit toxins that leach onto food. Storing food in glass means your foods will be safe from BPA, phthalates and toxins, unlike when using plastic containers. They are freezer, dishwasher and microwave safe and the snap and lock lids are leak proof. Prices start at $9.50 at WeanGreen.com. April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 25

Locally Owned

Welcome Home to Falcon Valley Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography Provided

f you have ever wondered if there truly is a slice of Heaven on Earth, then it’s time to become acquainted with the welcoming serenity of living in the award-winning, premier Falcon Valley community. Established in June of 1999 and located just off K-10 and Woodland Road in Lenexa, Falcon Valley is an inviting residential oasis, boasting more than 330 acres of some of the most desirable living space in the metro area, complete with walking trails, swimming pool, playground, sport court, clubhouse, event space and a nationally ranked golf course. According to developer Kaivan Ferzandi, Falcon Valley has been built upon a foundation of excellence, a commitment from which he will never waver. “We continue our pursuit to provide an upscale place to call home for our buyers,” he explains. As prospective home buyers search the metro area for the perfect place to call home, they encounter the sudden realization upon first visiting the Falcon Valley community that this residential garden spot truly has their new address written all over

26 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

it. The beautiful tree-lined, winding streets, neatly manicured lawns, and exquisite architectural detail all lend themselves to the wonderful masterpiece this neighborhood truly is. Currently building in the seventh and eighth plats, Falcon Valley has only 23 lots remaining. There are 12 additional lots remaining in the Falcon Village Twin Villas plat. These lots are moving fast, so time is of the essence. “We foresee being finished with building out the subdivision by the final quarter of 2016,” notes Ferzandi. (Loosely translated, that could be code for “act now if you want to embrace the residential lifestyle of your dreams!”) With lot prices ranging from $60,000 to the $130s and home prices from $300,000 to $500,000, along with multiple floor plans from which to choose (including single family plans and villas), Falcon Valley is a great place to build that starter home; upgrade to a larger family home; or finally enjoy that dream home that suits your empty-nester lifestyle.

The annual homes association dues for Falcon Valley homes are $600, which includes trash removal, recycling, pool access and sport court usage. The homes association dues for the homes in Falcon Village are $450 per quarter for maintenance provided amenities. Any golf enthusiast will be on par with the associated golf course that has garnered national attention. “Falcon Valley Golf Course is a privately owned, nine-hole course that has been ranked #14 nationally for nine-hole courses by Golf World Digest and has the only championship length nine-hole course in the entire Kansas City area,” says Ferzandi. Even better than the possibility of scoring a hole-in-one on these prestigious links is the recognition this community has received beyond just the local accolades. Recently cited in a national survey, Lenexa ranked #17 out of 3,200 communities across the country by Bloomberg Business Week as one of the best cities nationwide in which to raise a family. Factors taken into consideration for this distinction include public schools, safety, public services, housing costs and amenities. Further, Lenexa was the only city in the state of Kansas to receive this designation. Not to be overlooked is the inherent accessibility factor associated with Falcon Valley and Falcon Valley Village. With easy access to K-10, I-435, I-35, K-7 and KCI airport, along with the conveniences of shopping, dining, entertainment, hospitals, public parks and more, Falcon Valley sits just 20 minutes from downtown, Town Center Plaza, The Legends and Lawrence. For more information, visit FalconValleyHomes. com or call 913.780.9004. Open house models are available for showing Monday - Saturday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays from Noon – 5 p.m.

Open House

same lot–

Newer, Greener Home Article Tom Strongman | Photography Michael Spillers and Provided

ane York and her husband, Jack Williams, have lived on the same Leawood lot for 30 years, but the last two years have been dramatically different than the first 28 because their original home has been replaced by a custom house that is thought to be the state’s first and only privately funded LEED-certified Platinum home that scored 93 out of a possible 100 points. The change from a typical suburban ranch to an energy-efficient, modern two-story meshes perfectly with their desire to live a sustainable life, reduce their utility bill and be good stewards of resources and the environment. “We wanted a home designed specifically to suit our lifestyle,” Williams says, “and to lead by example, showing others how things can be better. We wanted to do the right thing.” Their key motivation was not to save money, although reduced utility costs are attractive, but to let their house be a revelation and an inspiration for others. “We love to share with others so they see something different,” he says. 28 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Williams is a retired electrical engineer and York is a retired speech pathologist. They are avid yoga enthusiasts who walk to a neighboring studio five days a week. Recycling and care for the environment have always been important for them. The first step in their journey was to de-construct their old house rather than just having it torn down and thrown into landfill. “There is not a lot of incentive to do deconstructing or recycling,” Williams says. After the house was dismantled and recycled, the remaining concrete basement and driveway were ground into gravel that was then used for fill around the foundation of the new house.

Williams and York selected architect Dominique Davison, the founding principal of DRAW architecture and urban design, for the design. It was one of her first home commissions. “We liked her commitment to the cause of sustainability,” Williams says. Noblit-Didier was the builder that deconstructed the original home and Homoly Construction built the new one. “Our firm, the owners and the contractor had to be committed to trying and testing new methods and pushing the limits of standard construction in order to optimize the performance of the home. We achieved that goal,” Davison says. The home’s foundation has 24-inch wide footings that contain four reinforcing bars, whereas the building code only requires 16 inches and two reinforcing bars. The walls are 10 inches thick rather than 8 as code requires. The shell of the home is constructed of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) that have 5 inches of insulation sandwiched between two sheets of half-inch OSB, or oriented strand board. The walls that have an insulation value of R-40 provide the structural support. The same panels are used for the roof, but they have been sprayed with an additional layer of insulation to bring the R rating up to 60. The home has several clever design features: *An unconditioned solarium on the south side of the house collects heat from the sun on cold days and stores it in a concrete floor that is one foot thick. At night, heat radiates out of the floor and into the home. Lanai doors between the solarium and the house can be closed during very cold or very hot weather. *When Jane is sitting in her second-floor sewing room a large opening lets her see outside by looking down through the south-facing solarium or over the solar-paneled roof.

*A window on the inside wall of the guest bedroom lets light stream in from a south-facing window on the other side of the two-story entry hall. *Photovoltaic panels on the roof over the solarium deliver four kilowatts of electricity. *Countertops are made from recycled glass and wall and floor coatings are made with materials that are low in volatile organic continued > compounds (VOC).

April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 29

Open House

(continued)

All of the light fixtures throughout the house are LEDs that emit light that is the same color as sunlight. A 4-ton, ground source heat pump is connected to two 320-foot wells drilled under the driveway. The heat pump also pre-heats hot water which goes through a Grundfos hot water recirculating system. All water pipes are insulated to R-4. E-coated, energy-saving windows have fiberglass frames that expand and contract at the same rate as the glass. Windows like this were used to retrofit the Empire State Building. The second floor exterior, covered with panels of Meteon made by the Trespa company, incorporates a rain-screen design that has a cavity behind the panels so rain, snow and condensation can drain out the bottom, reducing the likelihood of rotting and mildew. Building an LEED-certified home requires close cooperation and dedication between the builder, architect and home owner. Several times they had to exchange items with a high VOC content for ones that meet LEED requirements. Building to LEED specifications costs 5-10 percent more and it requires a considerable amount of paperwork and that adds to the cost as well, according to Williams. After almost two years in their home, Williams and York love the finished product. It fits them like custom-tailored clothes. Their average monthly utility bill for the all-electric home in 2012 was $94. As Williams says, “The only gas in the house is in the cars in the garage.”

30 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Architect Davison sums up the process best: “The best aspect is when I get messages from Jack and Jane that they are cozy in their unconditioned solarium on a 30-degree day.”

Where every address has a fore. Voted â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best New Communityâ&#x20AC;? by Kansas City Homes and Gardens Magazine is only one reason why you live at Cottonwood Canyon. Your schedule allows you to take advantage of the inclusive property maintenance both in the summer and winter. And your lifestyle fits perfectly on the beautifully-designed Golf Club of Kansas. Call 913.492.4444 to reserve your lot or visit cottonwoodcanyon.info to learn more.

Cottonwood Canyon

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913.492-4444

Prairie Star Parkway at Ridgeview

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Course of

World-class golf and an incomparable natural setting in Nebraska make an intoxicating twosome.

Article Kimberly Winter Stern | Photography Provided

hen you’re a devoted golfer, weekends are strategically planned around the game and your passport is kept current for jaunts to far-flung courses rich in fabled golfing history. You long for dewy spring mornings on well-manicured greens. Your guilty pleasure is watching hours of the Golf Channel when you can’t be on the course seeking your next thrill. You think the final round of the Masters should be declared a national holiday. Friends don’t understand your obsession and many don’t appreciate that, for you, simply being in nature on a beautifully designed course sometimes trumps your golf game entirely. So when you tell your friends about the world-class golf vacation you have booked this spring in Nebraska, you expect the blank stares. World-class golf? Nebraska?

Setting out by car from Johnson County, the GPS is programmed for Valentine, Ne32 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

braska, an eight-hour drive. Destination is The Prairie Club, a jaw dropping, semi-private, award-winning golf resort perched on the rim of the Cornhusker State’s spectacular Snake River Canyon. Remote? Absolutely—Valentine is the nearest town, and it’s 17 miles away. But that’s the innate beauty of The Prairie Club. It’s uncluttered and pristine, a place where you drop your bags, pick up your clubs, and golf away the hours.

Situated on more than 2,500 acres of Nebraska’s gently rolling Sand Hills is a golfer’s paradise that is serene and captivating with old-fashioned Midwest hospitality—all nestled in a sublime environment. Founded by Paul Schock, one of South Dakota’s best-known amateur golf champions, The Prairie Club combines his penchant for golf, the outdoors and conservation. And the culture Schock has carefully developed with comfortable, unpretentious accommodations highlighted by concierge-style service, great food and soul-soothing golf is indeed a seamless experience. The Prairie Club boasts three distinctive courses, in addition to a 16-acre practice facility and three putting greens. The Dunes 18, designed by acclaimed golfer Tom Lehman and golf course architect Chris Brands, hugs undulating seas of tall prairie grasses punctuated by dramatic elevation changes and ends on lush, bentgrass greens. Echoing Great Britain’s link-style courses, The Dunes is an all-American golf encounter that presents challenges for players of all skill levels. The Pines Course capitalizes on the sprawling property’s ancient Ponderosa Pines, where golfers play along the banks of

Just the Facts: The Prairie Club at a Glance Aside from packing your clubs, suitcase and a relaxed attitude, this is all you need to know about an unforgettable experience at The Prairie Club, a semi-private golf destination resort 17 miles north of Valentine, Nebraska. Course Names: Dunes Course, Pines Course, Horse Course Average Annual Rainfall: 21 inches Predominant Winds: NW and S Total Property Size: 2,500 acres Highest Elevation: 2,690 feet Wildlife: Turkey, deer, antelope, upland birds and myriad songbirds Practice Facility: Dual-sided, 500 yard-long range (16 acres) and 3 putting greens Awards: Top 10 36-Hole Resort, Links Magazine, 2013; Best New Overnight Golf Destination, Golf Digest, 2010 Lodge: 40,000 square feet; 31 lodge rooms; 28 cabin rooms Dining Venues: Caprock Lounge and Bar (casual); Canyon Room (fine); Eagle’s Nest (member’s only, casual); Paver’s Patio (casual) Menu: Authentic, home-style Prairie-inspired cuisine On the Horizon: A fourth course, The Oldschool, will take advantage of its natural sand and canyon edge For more information, visit ThePrairieClub.com.

continued >

April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 33

the Snake River Canyon and across Ogallala, the world’s largest underwater aquifer. Master golf course architect Graham Marsh engineered The Pines—a championship course that provides protection from occasional prairie winds along with a stunning panorama of wide-open Nebraska sky. The 10-hole, par-3 Horse Course borrows its name from basketball’s popular game. There are no tee boxes—rather, the player with honors calls the spot from which players hit their tee shots to begin play. Following an invigorating day on the links, The Prairie Club offers three dining venues to retreat and relax in the 40,000-square-feet Prairie Club Lodge, including the casual Cap-

rock Lounge and Bar and Paver’s Patio and fine dining in the Canyon Room. Member’s-only Eagles Nest, on the second level of the lodge, features a full-service dining room, bar and lounge. Chef Eric Miller prepares Midwest cuisine—think “meat and potatoes with a flair”—that emphasizes local meat, game and fish for each dining concept and mornings began with a sumptuous breakfast buffet. Choose from rooms with a luxurious Western motif in The Lodge or four well-appointed Canyon Rim Cabins located only 100 yards from The Prairie Club Lodge. The Prairie Club’s thoroughly modern amenities are suited for weekend golfers, corporate meetings and family gatherings. Days at The Prairie Club end with the rare opportunity to view an expansive, starlit sky, rivaling the pastoral settings of many better-known premier Kellogg first experienced The Prairie Club golf destinations. with his brother, an Atlanta resident, and World-class golf. Nebraska. You bet. two friends from South Dakota. According to Kellogg, the foursome spent an idyllic long weekend playing golf, enjoying well-executed cuisine and playing more golf. “I love the fact that The Prairie Club is, quite literally, out in the middle of nowhere,” he says. “There are no distractions; you park your car, give your keys to the valet and focus on terrific golf in a unique setting.” Kellogg’s subsequent trips to The Prairie Club were consistently five-star: food, lodging, golf, ambience and service. “It’s everything a golfer would want and more, in an unexpected setting,” he says.

road trip Dave Kellogg of Overland Park describes himself as an avid weekend golfer. “If there’s no snow on the ground, you’ll find me playing throughout the year,” he says. Kellogg’s favorite spots to swing a club—outside Kansas City—include Oregon’s Bandon Dunes and courses in the Phoenix area. But Kellogg is equally enamored with The Prairie Club in Nebraska’s Sand Hills and this fall will mark his fourth sojourn in as many years. “I first read about it in a golf magazine, right before it opened,” he says. “And then I met some of the folks from The Prairie Club at an Overland Park golf show, which prompted me to book a trip.”

34 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Dr. Amy Beckley, Assistant Scientist

Visit our campus between 9 a.m.

We’ve built for the future. Now it’s your turn.

and 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 20 for the K-State All-University Open House!

Building a better future, that’s the Wildcat way. K-State Olathe is helping Greater Kansas City area professionals advance their education through graduate degree programs in adult and continuing education, food science, and horticulture with an emphasis in urban food systems – and there are more advanced degree choices coming

olathe.k-state.edu

a successful future.

Where there’s a Wildcat, there’s a way.

Leave a Book, Take a Book

Promoting literacy and community one Little Free Library at a time.

Article Lisa Allen | Photography Provided

ne movie that all three of my kids can agree on is “Ferris Beuller’s Day Off.” They even recite lines now and then, including the ubiquitous “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

36 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

That quote has now become our standard when we’re driving in a new part of town, though it goes more like this: ‘Little free libraries might be here, Mom! If you don’t stop driving so fast, we might miss them.’ Thousands of Little Free Libraries can be found throughout the United States as well as in places across the globe like Lithuania and Lebanon, Rome and Winnipeg and Sao Paulo and Dublin. As of this writing, there are more than 15,000 Little Free Libraries scattered across the world. The original Little Free Library was built to resemble a one room schoolhouse. Todd Bol built it as a tribute to his mother, a former school teacher with a passion for reading. He adorned it with a sign that said ‘free books,’ mounted it on a post in his Hudson, Wisc., yard, and filled it with books. He built more and gave them away, and then joined forces with Rick Brooks of Madison, Wisc. Together, they saw the potential to effect good through the giving and receiving of books. The non-profit

organization Little Free Library’s goals are twofold: to promote literacy and the love of reading for both children and adults through free book exchanges worldwide and to promote a sense of community. What started in 2009 as a tribute to one mother has grown into an international movement that not only promotes the love of reading, but is also beginning to evolve into walking and biking tours and is, in some places, is influencing school curriculum as well as service and social media projects. The Little Free Library concept is not unlike that of a traditional library, though the differences are significant. There is no need for a card, and there are no due dates or fines, and the selection of books is ever changing. Everyone is encouraged to leave a book or to take a book, and can return it or not, at his or her discretion. Even more fun is that each Little Free Library can reflect its owner through its design. Many look like exaggerated birdhouses, but others vary in shape, size and

are part of landscape vignettes that include gardens and benches. Olathe is currently home to one Little Free Library, at Rolling Ridge Elementary School. It will soon have two, as the five girls of Girl Scout Troop 413 are building a Little Free Library at Ravenwood Elementary School as a means of earning the coveted Bronze Award. The Troop will

mount the Little Free Library near the outdoor classroom, with the hope that it will encourage students and neighbors to nurture a love of reading through the summer months. The Little Free Library at Rolling Ridge Elementary is a lasting reminder of the love for Marilyn Peterson. Peterson was a librarian at Rolling Ridge for more than 20 years, and her

There is no need for a library card, and there are no due dates or fines, and the selection of books is ever changing. Everyone is encouraged to leave a book or to take a book, and can return it or not, at his or her discretion. decoration. Some, like one on Aberdeen Street in Overland Park, is painted red to blend in with the brick houses along the block. Others in the Metro area are built to stand out; one in particular is an upcycled mailbox, painted periwinkle blue and decorated with painted yellow flowers. Official Little Free Libraries are chartered with the non-profit Little Free Library and are included on a comprehensive online map. While there is a fee to obtain a charter, the planning and construction of each unit is left up to the discretion of the owner. Kits are available for purchase, but many opt to use recycled or repurposed items to build a distinctive container that mirrors their reasons behind joining the movement, and several

daughter, Kate Thompson, is a librarian at Olathe Northwest High School. When Peterson passed away, her family donated $500 to the Rolling Ridge Elementary library. Lesley Sheldon, also a librarian at Rolling Ridge, stumbled across an article about Little Free Libraries while contemplating how to memorialize Peterson in a meaningful and lasting way. “The rest was history,” says Sheldon. “We have been blessed with many donations and several of our families watch over the library on weekends and over extended breaks. It is such a special project.” To learn more and to browse the official Little

List of local Little Free Libraries:

Free Library map, visit LittleFreeLibrary.org.

• 4221 Brookridge Drive, Fairway • 5512 W 61st Terrace, Mission • Rolling Ridge Elementary School, 1500 West Elm Terrace, Olathe • 15754 Dearborn Street, Overland Park • 8030 Glenwood Street, Overland Park • 8305 W. 72nd Street, Overland Park • 4317 W. 67th Street, Prairie Village, • 4916 W 78th Place, Prairie Village • 7647 Aberdeen Street, Prairie Village • 601 SE Miller, Lee’s Summit, MO April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 37

an era of egg hunts Westwood Neighbors Treasure Tradition

Words & Photography Jenny Wolff

s a little girl, Margaret Hare could barely contain her excitement on Easter morning. She knew that when she and her family returned from church, their neighborhood would burst open like spring, a spray of color and fun. The parents in the 15 homes along Norwood Street in Westwood would corral their children in their homes. At noon straight-up, they would throw open the front doors and the kids would tumble and spill onto the street in their Easter finery, baskets in hand, ready to run from yard to yard to collect hidden eggs and candy. “I could hardly wait to get out the door and run helter-skelter,” says Hare. “We even ran if it was raining!” “I was five-years-old when we moved to the 4900 block of Norwood. That year my mom started the egg hunt. It was 1942,” says Hare. She thanks her mother, Dorothy Amoneno, for beginning such a meaningful tradition. 38 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Margaret Hare looks at a photo album from the early years of the Norwood Street egg hunt.

“After the hunt, we would always line up in a driveway for pictures. The parents would go from house to house, sharing a beverage,” describes Hare. “Whenever we got through partying, we would return to our homes for Easter dinner, usually around two o’clock.” After that, two older boys would canvas the neighborhood and collect treats that had been missed. In 1957, a local reporter wrote an article about the then 15-yearold egg hunt. Hare cherishes the framed clipping, a ragged and yellowed testament to her fond memories. She says her mother continued the custom until she moved from the neighborhood in 2007. Dorothy passed away in 2011, but the tradition she began nearly three-quarters of a century ago continues with younger families. “We still start the egg hunt at noon on Easter Sunday,” says Judy Decker, who lives around the corner from Norwood. “It is a ‘coming out of winter’ event for the neighbors to greet each other after hibernation, as well as the kids hunting eggs. Even the seniors with no children or grandchildren around enjoy the socialization.” “When the hunt started in the 1940s, a family of four or five children lived in these three-bedroom homes,” recalls Decker. When the Decker’s three children (now ages 31-38) were growing up, only four or five kids lived on Norwood, so families on nearby

50th Street and 49th Terrace were included in the hunt. “Families are moving back in and now there are more than 15 children living in the area, including one of our daughters and her family,” says Decker with excitement. “Some other families on the street grew up in the nearby neighborhoods, so they know what it means to be a part of this very special community.”

it’s a scramble! Photography Provided

The Country Hill West Home Owners Association (HOA) hosts an annual event at Sunflower Elementary School in Lenexa. The HOA board fills 500-600 plastic eggs each year and gives away grand prizes including a HUGE chocolate bunny. Children under the age of five are permitted a head start. HOA board president Bruce Daniels says, “This is the longest preparation and the shortest duration of any of our HOA events.” In the Shannon Valley subdivision in Overland Park, organizers divide children into age groups and hide the eggs according to ability. “Stuffing the eggs is really time consuming,” says HOA board vice-president Lori Keuker. “We will try to convince some Bunco ladies to help stuff eggs during a game night, because it seriously

takes forever.” Following the hunt, the Easter Bunny helps children clean-up by urging them to place plastic eggs in large trash bags so the plastic eggs may be rinsed and reused next year. It will be an Eggstravaganza at Leawood City Park on Palm Sunday. Beginning at 11 a.m., families can purchase hot dogs, chips and drinks from the Kiwanis. At 12:30 p.m., the Easter Bunny climbs on top of a fire truck and sounds the siren, signaling that the race for eggs is on. The National Bank of Kansas City donates 20,000 eggs. The bank hides money in a few of the eggs, but most are filled with toys and candy. “The event takes hours to prepare for and it is literally over in two minutes,” says Shelly Pollock, Leawood Parks and Recreation spokesperson.

April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 39

Terrific Teacher

The Wonder in Teacher Article & Photography Lisa Gartland

eg Richard is exactly where she wants to be. A lifelong passion for science motivated her to begin college as a physics major. Then her practical side nudged her to graduate with a business degree and to earn an MBA. But no matter what she accomplished, she had a nagging feeling that she was not doing “enough” – she wasn’t making a difference. After some soul searching, and with support from her husband, a physics professor, and her family, Meg returned to school to earn her Master of Arts in education. She has never looked back. As she finishes her fourth year as a science teacher at California Trail Middle School in Olathe, Meg knows that teaching is what she was born to do. While many would say that middle school aged kids are the most difficult to teach, Meg emphatically disagrees, “Middle school students are the absolute best!” She understands the transitional time that her students are experiencing, and she treasures the fact that she is part of their journey as they decide who and what they want to become. Meg believes that as long as her students know she genuinely cares about them, it is easy to have a connection. “You go to their band concerts, their basketball games, their robotics competitions, their performance as a fork in a play, and you cheer as loud as you can with 42 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

them; then…you cry with them when they need you to,” she says. If a student needs help in science, she helps them. If they need help in some other area of life, she finds it for them. She makes sure that they know they are not just a grade on the latest test to her. Meg admits that there are times when kids resist learning some topics, but she has seen that as long as her connection is strong, the kids will show up and work hard. Keeping the subject relatable for students is a priority for Meg. She regularly teaches science details in song so students can easily remember facts. There is a “Wonder Wall,” in her classroom where students can post any question they have about science. Each Friday, Meg selects questions from the wall and answers them. “Wonder is the most powerful tool in my teacher toolbox,” she says. The students love the wall because they become part of the lesson. It also works well for Meg since it provides an additional interactive way to review state assessed concepts. Even when kids cross the line, Meg finds a way to teach something. It is a well-known rule that no gum is allowed in the science classroom. However, kids sometimes will enter chewing gum. Very quickly and without a word, Meg points to a covered jar and students add their gum to the “Gum Globe,” that is near the entrance of the classroom. The jar fills throughout the year, and soon the students will be swabbing the discarded gum for a lesson on bacteria. Lori Gjovig, an Olathe mother of two daughters who have had Mrs. Richard for science, says that she has an obvious passion for her students. “She has an enthusiasm for the kids, and she makes them feel like there is nothing they can’t do.” Gjovig recalls many times when Meg has been present at students’ activities, and she looks forward to her two younger children sitting in her classroom in the future. Time is the biggest challenge Meg faces in the classroom. With 32 kids in a class, finding the time for each of them to shine is a constant struggle. She encourages the use of technology so kids who might not feel comfortable speaking up in class are able to send experiment videos or news articles to Meg. Through the obstacles, Meg knows that she is in the right place and that she is making a difference. She also recognizes that her students make a valuable difference in her life, too. “Teaching is the best job in the world, and it’s like this little secret that not everyone knows. How can everyone not want to do this job?”

Do you know an outstanding educator we should spotlight? Contact Lisa@LifestylePubs.com for details.

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Your Neighbor

Reinvention Reclaimed Meet LeAnnE Stowe of Annie’s Barn Article Lisa Allen Photography 4 Ft Photos & Provided

eAnne Stowe’s love of everything vintage, dusty and sometimes a bit battered started when she was a child. Growing up in a no-stoplight Kansas town full of old trucks, she spent afternoons going to auctions with her dad. “He’d give me $10 and I’d fill up his truck,” she says. Now Stowe, whose business is named Annie’s Barn, has a loyal social media following, a new showroom near Truman Lake and a booming business. She’s the Kansas City version of television show ‘Pickers,’ sifting through the junk at auctions and estate sales to find hidden gems, which she upcycles in one way or another to create something new. Stowe has always appreciated the stories inherent in each piece she finds, and in the homes at which auctions or sales take place. A writer and reporter for a small newspaper right after college, Stowe also had a stint in corporate marketing and worked for a fancy startup business. After being laid off in 2000, she threw herself into being a stayat-home mom. She started collecting things as a way to stave off occasional bouts of boredom. When her son underwent surgery she needed something to stay busy and keep her mind off of her worries. She started in her overflowing garage. Now a national sensation for her unique, hand crafted signs, Stowe has cultivated an active following of fans with whom she frequently engages on Facebook and invites clients to join her in creating signs that are completely unique. “When I find something I love, I buy multiples” she says. She even had people asking for the 4x4 foot stars that she had as decorations at her wedding. She made them from reclaimed fencing. “People call me when they’re taking down their fences, when they’re painting their houses and when they have extras of materials they no longer need,” says Stowe. She’s also a regular at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, though the demand she’s had for her custom signs has grown so quickly that simply picking up materials there is no longer enough.

Stowe turns the otherwise discarded wood into decorative signs with a wide array of sayings. Some have quotes, others rules for life and still others famous moments from popular culture. In fact, one of Stowe’s most popular signs has the ubiquitous line from the movie Dirty Dancing: ‘No one puts Baby in a corner.’ Other favorites are typically internet memes and the most popular color combination is a simple black background with white lettering. “Truth is, you can buy a sign anywhere,” says Stowe. “But you can’t get your own sign just anywhere. The signs that I custom create for clients tell their story and allow their personality to come through.” Those custom-created signs are, in fact, Stowe’s favorites. Usually standing at 24 inches, the signs typically include a particular family’s set of rules; think of it as a family mission statement or philosophy, commemorated on wood and ready to hang as a daily reminder of what truly matters most. Not quite a year ago, a national story ran about Stowe’s custom signs and the response has been overwhelming. “My motto has always been ‘Do what you love, love what you do.’ I’m just taking things as they go; a year ago, I didn’t know that it would be the signs that would become so popular,” says Stowe. “This was a hobby that turned into a business, and it’s too early for me to know what might happen a few years down the road.” Learn more at Etsy.com/shop/AnniesBarn and Facebook. com/AnniesBarn.

“Truth is, you can buy a sign anywhere,” says Stowe. “But you can’t get your own sign just anywhere. The signs that I custom create for clients tell their story and allow their personality to come through.”

44 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

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April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 45

Home Matters

Before

Interior Designer vs. Do-It-Yourself? Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography Provided

esigning a room or multiple rooms in your home can seem challenging and overwhelming. The most common stumbling block, however, is the anxiety over how much it would cost to complete the project. Should you employ a do-it-yourself mentality or hand over the reigns to a professional interior designer? “Even though some people may think that hiring an interior designer is too expensive, doing so will actually save you time and money in the long run,” notes Arlene Ladegaard, owner and principal designer with Design Connection, Inc. For each project she undertakes, Ladegaard prepares a professional space plan based on the client’s ideas and lifestyle and elegantly pairs that with the understanding of the size and scale of each piece that will go into the finished room, right down to the last accessory. As a result, she knows exactly how those pieces will function within the space. “We make sure to first establish the taste and design style of the client and then we set a budget,” comments Ladegaard. Because of the wealth of knowledge and experience an interior designer brings to the table, she has access to many sources not readily available to the general public. Further, the designer will be able give special savings on items to which clients otherwise would not have access. “We buy directly from the manufacturers and that allows us to pass those savings along to our clients,” says Ladegaard, who emphasized that she works with a variety of manufacturers all over the country and is not just limited to those within the Kansas City area.

46 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

After

With each project, Ladegaard subscribes to a timeless and classic style, avoiding current trends or fads, as those short-lived ideas fade quickly and do not provide the lasting value that an otherwise timeless style will. Her attention to detail and her passion for her craft combine seamlessly with her experience to detail, making sure the selected products fit will within the space and function as intended. “When working with a professional, there are no surprises. You will know exactly what it will cost and you will also be assured that the pieces you buy for the room will actually fit in that room,” explains Ladegaard. “A skilled professional interior designer can find the right product for the right space and deliver the right amount of comfort. We tie the room together, getting it done efficiently and right the first time.” A professional interior designer can provide lasting and exceptional value, along with savings that complement the budget, all while completing the room and delivering a unique and lasting look. For more information on Design Connection Inc., visit DesignConnectioninc.com.

Design Tip Space planning and furniture layout is the key to ensure that furniture will fit in your space. Design that is well planned out will keep you from making expensive mistakes.

Introducing

If you wanted to build the best possible network of health care facilities and providers for you and your family, how would you do it? Simple. You’d start with a foundation of highly-trained exper ts from Shawnee Mission Medical Center — nearly 700 physicians in 50 specialties – from cancer and heart care to robotic surgery and women’s health – all dedicated to delivering the highest quality health care with genuine compassion. You’d invest in the latest medical technology. You’d make patient safety and satisfaction your top priorities. And you’d offer the most wide-ranging schedule of wellness classes anywhere in this community. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Shawnee Mission Health. To find out much more, visit us at ShawneeMission.org.

Star Students

The Heavy Toll of Hating Your Body A local organization is gaining national exposure for its unique approach to helping teens recover from eating disorders Article Lauren Collinsworth Claflin Photography Provided

hen Laura Eickman founded REbeL in 2008, her goal was to change the definition of beauty and health for teenagers. As a psychologist and counselor of disordered eating, she had witnessed again and again the negative effect that body image can have on a person’s self esteem. Actually, she had done more than just witness this effect; she had lived through it. From the time Eickman was in middle school until she was in college, she suffered from an eating disorder. At the time, she thought she was in the minority, but she slowly realized that an overwhelming majority of teenagers dislike their figures. “We are not born hating our bodies,” says Eickman. “We learn that along the way. And the sad fact is that it is now the norm for us to dislike our bodies, rather than the exception.” Eickman has spent much of her career working to combat negative body image in teenagers, helping them rediscover the power they have with self-acceptance and healthy living. REbeL began as a pilot program at Blue Valley Northwest High School in Overland Park. Eickman wanted to create an environment that would build confidence and promote positive self-esteem in teenagers, while combating body image issues that have

REbeL is student-driven. Its focus is on not only educating, but also training and empowering youth to make a difference in their school communities. REbeL was developed on a peer education model, so that participants grow into leaders throughout their involvement with the program. Members spend their first year in REbeL learning about disordered eating and body image issues, with a lot of emphasis on introspection. Kids are encouraged to evaluate their thoughts and feelings about their own appearance, and to explore what factors contributed to their feeling the way they do about themselves. Students are educated about the prevalence of eating disorders, the inefficacy of dieting, the danger of criticizing yourself, and the enormous impact of social media. After this continuous training and direction, students become

become increasingly prevalent in our society. That pilot program was immediately embraced, and it has grown steadily in the last five years. REbeL is now a non-profit organization with chapters in several Kansas City-area high schools. Recognizing that most body image issues start at a young age, REbeL has recently expanded into area middle schools as well.

the educators for new groups of kids entering the program. On their journey to becoming leaders and initiators, participants are encouraged to develop their own solutions to problems. This form of peer leadership has been very effective at both connecting with high school students and sustaining that connection through challenging situations. High school can sometimes be a destruccontinued >

48 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

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Star Students

(continued)

tive environment for self-esteem, and recovery can be difficult to maintain without a supportive peer group. Since its inception, REbeL has focused on empowering its members to have a profound impact on others. That empowerment has inspired many students to pursue college degrees in counseling, and to explore careers in which they can help prevent eating disorders. One of REbeL’s first members, Kendra Weinstein joined the program in its first year, and she is still passionate about its mission. Weinstein is now a psychology student at the University of Kansas, and is working to bring the program to KU. “The more I learned about Laura’s vision and saw how much work we need to do to reassert our society’s definition of beauty the more I loved the program and everything it stands for,” says Weinstein. “My involvement in REbeL is the reason I’m studying psychology today, and my goal after I graduate is to work for REbeL.” REbeL sponsors numerous community events throughout the year, including parent education workshops and classroom presentations. However, REbeL’s marquee event is its annual Walk

to REbeL, which will be held this year on May 10 at Blue Valley Northwest High School. The three-mile walk has enjoyed exponential growth each year, and more than 1000 walkers are expected to attend. Eickman is thrilled about how passionately REbeL has been embraced by the community. However, she knows how much more work there is to be accomplished. So many teenagers suffer through self-hatred, and the effects can extend long past adolescence. Body image isn’t about vanity; it’s about believing in your own unique beauty, worth and power. “Body image is not a fluff issue,” says Eickman. “These kids are our future leaders. If most of their energy and attention goes toward hating themselves, they will never believe in their power to do great things with their lives. But if we can empower them to see the best in themselves, and teach them to help others, these are the kids who will go on to cure cancer and envision ways to end world hunger. The effects of good self-esteem extend long beyond childhood.” To learn more about REbeL’s mission, and to sign up for the May 10 Walk to REbeL, go to Re-bel.org.

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Giving Back

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

t’s referred to as the “mind robber,” and some 5.2 million Americans struggle with this relentless thief. In truth, though, Alzheimer’s steals so much more than just the mind. It wreaks havoc on relationships, finances and, as the sixth leading cause of death, it steals lives. Most frightening of all is that the disease is set to explode as the nation’s population ages. By 2025, it’s estimated that some 7 million people will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s—a 40 percent increase. At the ready to lend a helping hand is the Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter, which helps individuals with the disease, their families and care partners deal with the devastating diagnosis. The national organization got its start in 1981 when a handful of caregivers sat around a kitchen table discussing their shared struggles with loved ones who were suffering from Alzheimer’s, says Juliette Bradley, director of communications for the Association. 52 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

“The disease was poorly understood by doctors and generally considered a hopeless condition,” she explains. “Those with the disease and their care partners had few resources for information and support. Following the lead of the newly formed National Alzheimer’s Association, this small group of local advocates banded together to form a Kansas City chapter in hopes of providing support to caregivers.” Over the past 33 years, the local Chapter has grown from serving a few dozen with one or two support groups to serving 66 counties in Kansas and Missouri through hundreds of support programs and services, educational classes and workshops, awareness events and advocacy. “Within this service area, 50,000 individuals and more than 200,000 family members and care partners are affected by the emotional, physical and financial challenges of this disease,” Bradley says. “Every year more than 30,000 individuals utilize the Chapter for information or support—all free of charge.”

Helma Hawkins is one of the many who’s turned to the Association for guidance and support. “My husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2010. He was diagnosed on a Wednesday, and we went to the Association on a Friday. They were wonderful from the start, and we’ve been going ever since.” The Hawkinses attend group meetings twice a month. “My husband is in a group with people in the early stages, and I’m in a group of caregivers at the same time so we can both attend. My husband also participates in a Memories in the Making© watercolor class. His paintings have twice been chosen for the annual art auction benefitting the Association.” (This year’s Art Auction will be held May 1. Information is available on the Chapter’s website, Alz.org/KansasCity.) Hawkins values the relationship her family has with the Alzheimer’s Association. “It’s just been amazing. I’ve learned so much. I’m somebody who likes to feel as prepared as you can for something, and I’ve done a lot of reading and gathered a lot of information, but hearing from others in the same situation is just vital, I think.” Among the services provided are a 24-hour information and support line (at 1.800.272.3900), individualized care consultations, family courses on caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, support groups, professional/caregiver conferences, legal issue seminars, and much more. “It’s our hope that anyone who is in the midst of an Alzheimer’s journey knows about our organization and the services we offer,” Bradley says. “Alzheimer’s knows no boundaries. It crosses cultures, races, ethnicities, and genders. Those with early stage Alzheimer’s can be in their 40’s or their 80’s. There are many struggles associated with living with Alzheimer’s disease, starting with acceptance of the diagnosis to learning how to cope—and thrive—throughout the Alzheimer’s journey. Care partners, as well as individuals with the disease, have their own struggles, and the Chapter supports in many different ways all those affected through the constant changes in the face of Alzheimer’s.” The Chapter is funded primarily through individual, corporate, and foundation support. Fundraisers are a critical part of the organization’s revenue and include the Memories in the Making© Art Auction, Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Blondes vs. Brunettes Women’s Flag Football Game, and many Do It Yourself (DIY) fundraisers hosted by local advocates. And the funds these efforts raise is of the utmost importance, in particular, Bradley says, because as a society we have less interest in, direct fewer resources to, and are less empathetic to the plight and needs of older adults, especially those with dementia. “There continues to be stigma attached to Alzheimer’s. We want to educate the public to reduce this stigma, increase awareness about Alzheimer’s, and ensure that the community is knowledgeable about the vital programs and services we provide.”

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Parent's Corner

How to Ensure You Get the Best Letters of Recommendation from Your School Article Rebecca Murphy

hether it’s to apply for admittance into a valued college, verify candidacy for an Eagle Scout Award, try to achieve placement into a specialized program or camp, or attempt to secure a needed scholarship, many students will find themselves necessitating a letter of recommendation from teachers or administrators at their school. Most school officials operate on very tight schedules. Teachers often rely on one period per day to plan, grade and meet required routine functions in their jobs. Administrators and counselors oversee hundreds of students in the building. It is crucial to approach this request with the attitude that it is a privilege to have them allocate an hour - at minimum - exclusively focused to help you achieve your desired goal. 54 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Think carefully about the appropriate person to write a recommendation for you. You should be mindful of who can best endorse the characteristics required to achieve the position you seek. If you’re applying to a science and math camp, your history teacher probably wouldn’t be able to construct a snapshot demonstrating your lab capabilities. Think about the perception you have portrayed to the potential letter writer before you seek their assistance. A teacher will be baff led if you want them to construct a letter and they’ve ask you to put your phone away three times per class period for the entire year. School personnel will be inclined to create letters that authenticate their actual experiences with you. Most educational

affiliates won’t complete a letter unless you sign away your rights to read it and those confidential testimonials will be considered the most valid letters by organizations receiving them. All requests for letters of recommendation should be initiated by the student rather than a parent. It is most impressive for the student to approach the task with regard to it being a personal goal. Self-initiation, attention to detail in providing the writer with the needed information to do the letter construction efficiently, and demonstrating a plan with respect to deadlines will be impressive to the person you ask to write the letter. It is the writer’s job to bring you to life on paper for consideration of desired opportunities. Help them help you by taking the time to develop a broader sense of who you are before the letter is written. Those steps alone will add to the value of what can be conveyed about you. It is important to give your recommender the appropriate amount of time to work you into their schedule. While some people require a month lead time, most will need at least two weeks to find the time necessary to complete all the tasks that accompany the recommendation process. Students accustomed to informal texting and short emails often are unaware of the attention to detail it takes to write a formal letter. It is critical to determine what information your recommender requires before they begin to write. Your GPA doesn’t provide enough information to give a thorough snapshot of your strengths and reinforcement of the characteristics that will need to be conveyed to maximize attainment of the opportunity the letter is intended to secure. To efficiently construct a letter, students will often be asked to submit a resume, complete a questionnaire, or meet with the author for a quick interview. The best letters are constructed when the writer has documentation from the organization where the recommendation will be received and knows precisely what they are trying to help you accomplish.

Students accustomed to the benefits of technology often assume that recommendations require a few clicks, a little cut and paste, and a quick submission. Technology can provide challenges in the application and recommendation process. Platforms may only interface with certain internet browsers, difficulty with submission can occur during last minute deadlines, and sites can crash. It is important to make sure students understand the importance of deadlines and the necessity to be provided with time to compensate for tech glitches. Take the time to sincerely thank the person who has completed your recommendation. Be mindful of the fact that they have put aside their normal responsibilities in favor of making an investment in you and your future. Keep the recommender informed of the status of the application. If someone genuinely invests in helping you obtain a candidacy, let them know if you are accepted, endorsed, or obtain a scholarship. If you have developed the relationship with your endorser that is necessary to get a quality letter they deserve to share in your celebration of success. Leaving them out of the end result creates the appearance that they are being used. Taking the above points into consideration, the recommendation process can be positive for everyone involved. Make sure students understand the importance of maintaining good character, demonstrating they can work well with both students and staff, becoming active outside the classroom, and finding opportunities to develop their leadership skills. With proper planning and execution, you will receive a complementary letter highlighting you as a whole person that will enhance your chances of reaching your goals!

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Rebecca Murphy is a 30-year educator in the Shawnee Mission School District and currently serves as the coordinator of the International Baccalaureate program at Shawnee Mission East.

5721 W. 119th Street Overland Park, KS 66209 MenorahMedicalCenter.com April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 55

Driver's Notebook

Tesla’s All-Electric Model S Rewrites the Rules Article and Photography Tom Strongman

alk up to the all-electric Tesla Model S, and the beautifully sculpted flush door handles glide silently out to greet you. The handles, themselves a work of art, are an invitation to a driving experience that is silent, sophisticated and addictive. I was fortunate to be able to sample the experience through the generosity of a local Tesla owner who let me drive his car, the most powerful P85 performance model. The first thing you notice is how beautiful the car is. The four-door has a coupelike profile with muscular flanks and a purposeful stance. Its lines are fluid and smooth, much like the power delivery of its AC induction electric motor. The second thing is the bank-vault quiet and the incredible acceleration of the P85. It launches from a stop like a Porsche Turbo (minus the noise), pinning you back in the seat like a jet plane on takeoff. Zero to 60 miles per hour comes in 4.2 seconds. Top track speed is 133 mph. Consumer Reports called the Model S “a nearly perfect car,” the best it has ever tested. MOTOR TREND magazine awarded it the 2013 Car of the Year and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it a five-star crash rating. It is built in Tesla’s plant in Fremont, Calif. With top-quality materials and fit and finish equal to or better than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class or BMW 7-series, the Model S has a hard-to-describe but easy-to-feel sense of heft and road presence. The low center of gravity (because the litium-ion battery pack is under the floor), instantaneous torque from the electric motor and lack of noise make it feel as if you are flying a magic carpet. The more you drive, the more you want to drive. 56 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Regenerative braking recharges the battery as the car slows and it is strong enough that letting up on the the throttle is usually enough to bring the car to a stop with very little brake application. Range anxiety, so common in electric cars, is rarely an issue with the Model S unless you have a long trip in mind. The 60 kWh battery has a range of 208 miles, and the 85 kWh battery has a range of 265 miles. Range depends on how you drive. The acceleration is enthralling but if you mash the throttle a lot the range will be shortened considerably. Drive reasonably and you should be able to get close to the EPA-certified range target. Charging can be done with a 110-volt outlet, but that takes a long time. Buyers will want to install a 240-volt outlet at their home. The car can be equipped with a 40-amp charger or an 80-amp charger that is twice as fast. To facillitate long-distance travel, Tesla is

Tesla Model S P85

85kWh, 416-horsepower, AC induction motor Transmission: One-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive Wheelbase: 116.5 inches Curb weight: 4,647 pounds Base price: $94,900 As driven: $99,820 MPG equivalent: 88 in the city, 90 on the highway Motor:

installing Superchargers along well-travelled highways in North America and Europe. These proprietary stations will provide a half charge in 20 minutes. The Model S was designed by Franz von Holzhausen, formerly the director of design for Mazda’s North American Design Center and before that, a design director at General Motors responsible for the Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Sky and Opel GT. A similarly beautiful Model X utility model will be available in 2014, and reservations are now being taken. When you slip into the cabin, you’re greeted by an iPad-like flat screen in the center of the instrument panel that is almost as big as a 17-inch laptop. Most all of the car’s functions can be controlled from this screen, and it can also display a full-screen navigation map. The Model S is a hatchback with room for five passengers. Cargo space is quite large with the seats folded. Two small rear-facing seats for kids are optional. The front trunk, where an engine would normally reside, is quite spacious. Aside from tires, brake pads and windshield wipers, there is not much to wear out. The company says routine software updates handle most issues, and the car monitors itself. The company recommends service every year or every 12,500 miles. The owner can take the car to a service center or for $100 Tesla will send a technician to the car. Tesla is planning valet service that will pick up a customer’s car and leave a loaner in its place. Currently, the closest service cen-

June 10 – 15

June 17 – 22

ter is in St. Louis but one is planned for Kansas City. There are three Model S versions, available online with a fully refundable deposit. The model with a 60 kWh battery has a range of 208 miles, hits 60 miles per hour in 5.9 seconds and has a base price of $63,570. The 85 kWh battery has a range of 265 miles, hits 60 in 5.4 seconds and has a base price of $73,570. The Performance 85 kWh hits 60 in 4.2 seconds and has a base price of $83,570. Max out the P85 with all options and the price can be $122,020. All base prices quoted are after a federal tax rebate of $7,500 that you receive when you file your income taxes. Installation of a home charging unit is additional. Price: The base price of the P85 that I drove was $94,900. The tech package was an additional $3,750, personal delivery was $990 and final inspection, prep and coordination was $180. The as-driven price was $99,820. Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles. The 60 kWh battery has an eight-year, 125,000-mile warranty and the 85 kWh battery has an eight-year, unlimited-mile warranty. You can contact Tom Strongman at tom@tomstrongman.com.

July 8 – 13

July 25 – 31

Sept 9 – 14

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April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 57 3/10/14 12:23 PM

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58 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Johnson County Properties neighborhood

original list

list price

sold $$

Leawood

$3,500,000

$2,550,000

$2,175,000

85%

606

4.1

Leawood

The Woods Estates

$2,200,000

$1,850,000

$1,697,510

91%

301

7.2

Leawood

$1,379,000

$1,360,000

98%

103

4.2

Mission Hills

Indian Hills

$895,000

$837,500

93%

4.1

Mission Hills

Calvin Crest

$869,000

$839,000

$805,000

95%

143

4.2

Prairie Village

Leawood Estates

$795,000

$769,000

$755,000

98%

Mills Farm

$875,000

$775,000

$746,000

96%

154

6.2

Overland Park

Leawood

$795,000

$769,900

$727,450

94%

207

5.1

Leawood

Wyngate

$679,950

100%

4.1

Overland Park

Lionsgate-by-the-Green

$650,000

$635,000

100%

3.2

Overland Park

Wyngate

$625,000

100%

3.2

Overland Park

Nottingham St. Andrews

$700,000

$620,000

$600,000

96%

284

4.1

Overland Park

Lionsgate-by-the-Green

$625,000

$615,000

$595,000

96%

5.1

Overland Park

Indian Fields

$659,900

$625,000

$570,000

91%

273

Prairie Village

Mission Prairie

$565,000

$563,000

99%

Leawood

Wilshire Farms

$539,000

$520,000

96%

Overland Park

Patrician Woods

$535,000

$514,000

96%

5.1

Sagamore Hills

%sp to lp dom* bdrms

city

Leawood

MLS Statistics from 2/1/2014-2/28/2014

April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 59

Lifestyle Calendar

April

fabric of our city. Since 1924, City Union Mission has provided warm beds, nutritious food and safety for thousands of poverty-stricken and homeless men, women and children. 11 a.m.; $125. CityUnionMission.org.

April 8

LET’S GET JAZZED

April 17

Bright Futures Luncheon

18TH & VINE

Overland Park

Don’t miss this music-filled night that will support the American Diabetes Association in KC. The fun will take place at the American Jazz Museum and the famous Blue Room from 6-9 p.m. There will be food, drinks, great jazz, a live auction and the ever-popular raffle baskets. Diabetes.org/LetsGetJazzed

A fundraiser at the lovely Ritz Charles benefitting Head Start of Shawnee Mission which serves Johnson County poverty-level children (birth to age 5) and their families. Luncheon includes silent auction. Seating is limited and registration is required. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 913.694.9714.

April 10

April 17 A Lunch Affair with RIKC

15th Annual Wild About Harry!

Kansas City

To benefit the Rehabilitation Institute of Kansas City who helps those we serve achieve greater independence at home, school or work, and in the community. Luncheon takes place at Ameristar Casino Hotel Star Pavilion. 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tickets RehabKC.org/LunchAffair/

The Truman Library Institute’s premiere event benefiting the presidential library and legacy of Harry S. Truman, supporting education and outreach programs created to foster civic engagement. Enjoy a sparkling social hour, elegant dinner and entertaining program. TrumanLibrary.org

April 12

April 18-19 KONSTANTINO TRUNK SHOW

Easter Eggstravaganza

Kansas City

Paul Henson YMCA

Greek jewelry designer Konstantino debut at Meierotto Midwest Jewelers (4311 NE Vivion Road): His Aegean Collection features rock crystal doublet stones and precious turquoise set in sterling silver. His Flamenco Gold Collection includes London Blue Topaz, pearl, and diamond set in radiant 18kt yellow gold. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 816.453.1111 or MJewelry.com.

Come join this spring celebration with our annual community Easter egg hunt as well as fun family activities for all ages. Mr. Stinky Feet performs at 10:30 a.m. Games, art projects, a bounce house and snacks available leading up to the egg hunt at 11:45 a.m. KansasCityYMCA.org

April 12 Egg Dive

April 19

Blue Valley

Lifetime Achievement Concert

Come join the fun and find eggs Peter Rabbit hid in the pool. Dive for special eggs with big prizes at the Blue Valley Aquatic Center. Pre-register by April 10. 913.685.6000

Gem Theater

April 13 Kansas City Pet Telethon Kansas City

Annual fundraiser hosted by KSHB’s Gary Lezak and Crystle Lampitt of 38 The Spot, along with other local personalities. Benefits the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, a no-kill shelter providing education, adoptions, preventive care and low-cost spay/neuter services. Call in to donate or watch on 38 The Spot. HSGKC.org or KCPetTelethon.org

April 15 Women Who’ve Changed the Heart of the City Sheraton at Crown Center

This annual fundraiser luncheon for City Union Mission will celebrate and honor women who have made a lasting mark on the 60 Johnson County Lifestyle | April 2014

Organized by the American Jazz Museum, the Lifetime Achievement Concert is part of the Jammin’ at the Gem series. Features Kansas City native and KU graduate, Dr. Nathan Davis, a jazz multi-instrumentalist. Ticket information: 816.474.8463or visit AmericanJazzMuseum.org.

April 24 Rockhurst University Critique & Luncheon Indian Hills Country Club

A fundraiser for Greenlease Library. Local husband and wife authors Diane Eickhoff and Aaron Barnhart present their book, “The Big Divide,” a travel guide to historic and local Civil War sites. Includes wine reception with the authors and a lovely luncheon and presentation. $50 816.501.4574 or Rockhurst.edu/critique.

April 24

April 26

The Infinite Loop

Herb & Wildflower Sale

Overland Park

John Wornall House

Chris Sheridan, regional vice president of Ivy Funds, offers insights into potential investment opportunities presented by cutting edge companies. Q&A follows. Evening includes a light dinner. No charge. Guests welcome. 6-8 p.m. at the Waddell & Reed home office, 6300 Lamar Ave. RSVP by April 21 to Donna Tilden at 913.491.9202 x 132 or dtilden@wradvisors.com.

This beloved event features Missouri Wildflower Nursery wildflowers and locally grown herbs. Visit with local garden groups and celebrate spring. 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free. WornallHouse.org or 816.444.1858.

April 28 Tee It Up for SAFEHOME Overland Park

April 26 Kansas City Warrior Dash Lawrence

The pioneer of the obstacle racing industry, the Warrior Dash introduces an epic new obstacle called Goliath and competitive runner’s lane to earn entry into the Warrior Dash World Championship. Welcoming 6,500 participants. Circle S Ranch & Country Inn, Lawrence. WarriorDash.org

April 26

This exciting day of fun and prizes at the Nicklaus Golf Club LionsGate will benefit SAFEHOME, Johnson County’s only comprehensive provider of services to victims of domestic violence and their children. Early Bird Registration ends April 11. More information and registration: Safehome-KS.org or contact Susan Lebovitz at 913.378.1518 or slebovitz@safehome-ks.org.

May 2-3 Friends of the Arboretum Plant Sale

Healthy Kids Day

Overland Park

Paul Henson Family YWCA

There’s no better place to outfit your home and garden. Stroll the Arboretum gardens for inspiration then choose your plants from an impressive list of locally-grown annuals and perennials plus an outstanding selection of herbs. ArtsAndRec-OP.org

Celebrate the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of families. Includes fun, active play and educational activities to keep kids moving and learning, in order to maintain healthy habits and academic skills to achieve goals and reach their full potential. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. KansasCityYMCA.org

May 3 EarthWalk KC

April 26

River Market

Learn to Row Wyandotte County Lake

Spring is here and it’s time to get in shape and enjoy the outdoors again! Join the Kansas City Rowing Club for their first Learn To Row Program open to all ages from 13-60+. Learn the basics of rowing during this 90 minute session. Boy Scout Cove 12 – 2:30 p.m. $50. Registration RegattaCentral.com. More information at KCRowing.com.

Bridging The Gap’s 18th annual EarthWalk is the perfect opportunity to gather with others who share your sustainable values. This year’s EarthWalk will kick off from– City Market Park, located at 3rd and Main streets, in the River Market. The three-mile route will take walkers along the Riverfront Heritage Trail with great views of the Kansas City skyline and the Missouri River. EarthDayKC.org

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April 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle 61

Lifestyle Calendar

May 3

in Juniper Garden’s and St Margaret’s housing in KCK. Each event seeks donation of cash and goods. Want to get involved? Host a happy hour in your home or business. Project39Moms.com

Get Your Green On Festival City Market

Celebrate the sustainable culture at this event that features electronics recycling, a community yard sale, eco-friendly exhibitors and art, and a full stage of entertainment including a StoneLion puppet show and more. Recycle your electronics at 3rd and Walnut, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 816.842.1271 or TheCityMarket.org.

Through May 10 The A-Lone Ranger Overland Park

Presented by Martin City Melodrama & Vaudeville Company. A melodramatic parody about the Robin Hood of the Wild, Wild West. This comic homage will be performed as an old-time radio show complete with authentic musical and 1940s commercials. $10. Reservations essential. 913.642.7576 MartinCityMelodrama.org

May 7 John Legend’s “All of Me” Tour Kauffman Center

On the heels of his outstanding performance at this year’s GRAMMYs, Kauffman Center is proud to present John Legend as part of the 2013–2014 ‘Kauffman Center Presents’ season. Helzberg Hall. Tickets $55 to $125. Call 816.994.7222 or visit KauffmanCenter.org.

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