Johnson County Lifestyle December 2014 by City Lifestyle

Johnson County december 2014

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Family Bonds with Grand-tripping KCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Holiday Destinations An Amazing Second Act Rides for Seniors Who No Longer Drive

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Editor's Letter

Grandparenting: The Next Phase of Parenting? S

ome of my dearest friends have become grandparents in the past year and it’s really thrown me off my game. Adding to the confusion, I’ve started to hear other friends confess how much they are looking forward to becoming grandparents (when their 20-somethings aren’t yet married or dating their Mr./Mrs. Right)! I guess this is the way it goes. We end one phase of our lives and immediately start to fanaticize about the next. It’s got me thinking.

Is it wrong to admit that I cringe just a little bit inside when I realize that our oldest prince, who is 18 and in his first year of college, is not only living on the campus where I met his father, but is the same age I was when we started dating? YIKES. I’m still boasting an age that is safely ensconced in the mid-40s range, at least for six more months, and I’m too young to be at this phase of my life. Grandparenting? Really? But when you stop and think about it, it does sound kind of wonderful, doesn’t it?

december 2014 editor-in-chief Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com sales director Michael Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch | MStauch@LifestylePubs.com Tia Koepke | TKoepke@LifestylePubs.com Tim Carr | TCarr@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers Lisa Allen, Heather Trent Beers, Ruth Bigus, Mary Bush, Karen Cane, Charles Redfield, Anne Potter Russ, Denise Snodell, Tom Strongman, Molly Williams contributing photographers 4 Ft Photoz, Alexis Cook, Parker Harrison, McKenna Matthewson, Tom Strongman

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore

I’m envisioning daytrips to parks and zoos and ice cream in the middle of the day. Maybe I’ll be that grandma who takes the kidlets on trips to all of the zoos in the Midwest. I think about spoiling them rotten with gifts because something caught my attention or was on sale. And ballet recitals without the frustration of having to drive them to all of those rehearsals and write all of those checks? Sounds blissful! Sign me up. Our goal this month was to introduce you to some pretty amazing seniors in and around our community. These folks are making the most of their second act. Enjoy their stories and be inspired. I know we sure did, and we thank them for sharing their stories.

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

I’ll see you around town!

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com

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

on the cover A hobby that turned into

a passion. Read more about Don Miller's amazing train layouts on page 24. photography by Parker Harrison

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7373 West 107th Street 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.

December 2014

Departments 10

Good Times

Around Town

Star Student

Your Neighbor

Hometown Hero

Artist's Palette

30 Locally Owned 32

Locals Only

46 Now Open 48 Driver's Notebook 52

Giving Back

Home Matters

40 Lights…Camera…Santa!

Field Trip

Picture This

34 The Art of Grand-Tripping

The ultimate bond-building, memory-making travel experience.

Start a tradition with KC’s best holiday destinations.

42 Area Entrepreneurs Find Inspiration in Unusual Places

66 Lifestyle Calendar 74

Making the most of life’s second act.

Parting Thoughts

Expires 1/31/15

Good Times

Lifestyle Publications 5th Anniversary Party

Happy birthday to us! Lifestyle Publications celebrated its fifth anniversary at the newly opened Monarch Room with friends, associates and employees. We are looking forward to many more years of telling the stories from around the corner and around the neighborhood! Photography Joel Schneider

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

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Good Times

Kicks 4 Kids for Turner House Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clinicâ&#x20AC;¨ Guests enjoyed meeting Sporting KC players Matt Besler and Graham Zusi and clinic tours. Turner House has provided quality health care to thousands of underserved children for more than 24 years. Photography Vivian Nazzaro

Angela Neunuebel, Madeline Hollenbeck & Izzy Romano

Mary Ring, Mary Montgomery & Lisa Edelman

Graham Zusi, Jill & Jim Neunuebel, Matt Besler

Graham Zusi, Amy, Paige & Michael Castillo, Matt Besler

Graham Zusi, Joe & Susan Rebein, Matt Besler

Robert Ramm, Graham Zusi, Janet Burton & Matt Besler

Rick & Stacey Homuth

Mike Heckman & Dr. Maria Ibarra

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

Menorah Medical Center’s PINK Party

Hundreds of guests, including breast cancer survivors, those on the breast cancer journey, family, friends, physicians, nurses and hospital staff attended Menorah Medical Center’s annual PINK Party in early October. Photography Brett Pruitt

Steve Wilkinson, Dr. Nasim Ahmadiyeh, Kathy Patton, Dr. Stephanie Graff & Dr. Denise Miller

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December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Good Times

3rd Annual OverRun 5K

The eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record crowd of 1,200 people joined the fight against ovarian cancer with the OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer Foundation to support better treatment options and ultimately a cure. Proceeds benefit research at The University of Kansas Cancer Center.

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

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Around Town ACTIVE AGERS PROGRAMING Did you know the Olathe Parks and Recreation Department offers an extensive program for seniors called the Active Agers programing? They offer monthly bunko, day trips to Kansas City venues as well as exciting venues an hour or two away, local outings to the New Theater, and even potluck dinners. And you don’t have to be a resident of Olathe to enjoy the programming. Find details online at OlatheKS.org/ParksRec.

Church choir in Overland Park as a bass soloist. And he is currently in his third season with the Kansas City Chorale, under the direction of Grammy Award-winning conductor, Charles Bruffy.

STRATFORD COMMONS EXPANSION UNDERWAY Locally owned Tutera Senior Living and Health Care announces the expansion and renovation of Stratford Commons, Johnson County’s premier memory care community for seniors. The 34,000-square-foot expansion includes 38 new private suites, four couples’ suites, a rehabilitation gym and new dining venue, among other amenities. Construction began in September 2014 and is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2015. As part of the expansion, Stratford Commons will add two additional levels of care for its residents: skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. These two new services will be provided in addition to memory care – on the existing campus at 12340 Quivira Road in Overland Park.

SCHOOL’S OUT, NOW WHAT?

Local Singer Joins Prestigious Dublin Choir A 26-year-old Kansas City man has booked the gig of a lifetime. Nick Stoppel, a 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, is heading to Dublin, Ireland this fall to join the renowned choir, Anúna. He will sing and travel with the choir for two months. Stoppel is only one of three Americans joining the choir this year. “I am thrilled to be doing something that I love all over the world,” says Stoppel. “I’ve always known I wanted to be a performer, and now I get the chance to start living my dream.” For Stoppel, this is just another chapter in his musical education. Growing up, Stoppel’s mother was a music teacher. Five years ago, he joined the Rolling Hills Presbyterian 16

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

Art Gallery, located on the third floor of the Irene B. French Community Center, March 7 through April 11, 2015. For to download additional information and guidelines, visit Merriam.org or call 913.322.5550.

Looking for a way to keep the kids and grandkids active and entertained when school is not in session? The Olathe Parks and Recreation Department has a variety of options from single day activities to their new Olathe Kids Crew! (OKC) Check the “School’s Out, Now What?” section of the 2015 Winter/Spring Activity Guide at OlatheKs.org/ParksRec or call 913.971.6254 for details.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS The City of Merriam is now accepting entries for their 19th Annual Heartland Artist Exhibition. This juried art competition features original works submitted by artists from all across the country. Artists will gain exposure, plus a chance to share over $3,000 in cash prizes. All entries must be received by January 6, 2015. Notice of acceptance will be posted on the City’s website on January 26. Accepted works will be on display at the Tim Murphy

OP ROTARY PRESENTS ANNUAL DONATIONS The Overland Park Rotary Club recently recapped the results of this year’s 23rd annual July 4th Star Spangled Spectacular. Through the generous support of club members, area businesses and volunteers, $99,396.00 was raised at the event and in support of local charitable causes. In attendance at the meeting were Lois Rice and Martha Gershun from CASA and Kelly Welch of Sheffield Place. Each group was presented a check in the amount of $21,333 and shared their planned use of the grants with the Club. The Rotary Foundation also received a grant check for $17,500, which will directly fund a portion of the club’s own Youth Leadership Institute (YLI). The Star Spangled Spectacular is presented through the joint efforts of the City of Overland Park, Corporate Woods and the Rotary Club. For OP Rotarians, the Star Spangled Spectacular event is an opportunity to live the Rotary motto of “Service above self.” The club meets every Monday at 11:30 a.m. at the Overland Park Marriott.

NEW FLOWER SHOP OPENS IN WESTWOOD HILLS Two very familiar names in Kansas City business and social circles are joining forces to bring The Little Flower Shop to the vibrant Westwood Hills Shops at State Line and 50th Street.

Around Town

Take control of your weight, take control of your life.

Leslie Brett and Chuck Matney, are collaborating to open the new shop in space formerly occupied by Annedore’s Chocolates. Chuck Matney owned and operated Matney Floral in Fairway for 25 years and says The Little Flower Shop will specialize in attentive, personal service to communicate the personal taste and vision of each of their clients. The selection of gifts and home accessories will change with the season to encourage walk-in shoppers. Telephone and wire service orders are immediately filled and delivered. The shop will be open weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by special appointment on Sundays.

Weight Loss Surgery Offers So Many Benefits

Finding and maintaining your optimum weight is a great start for a healthy life. It can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and many other health complications, as well as enhance your overall lifestyle. Menorah Medical Center offers two laparoscopic weight loss surgery options for people who struggle with their weight: sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding.

A Leader in Bariatric Care

Menorah Medical Center is among the few hospitals in the area with a Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery Program accredited by the American College of Surgeons, and we are committed to delivering the highest quality care for our bariatric surgery patients.

A Partner During Your Weight Loss Journey

The decision to have weight loss surgery is not to be taken lightly. Our dedicated bariatrics team will help you determine whether you are a candidate for weight loss surgery and which bariatric procedure is right for you. We are here to guide you to a happier, healthier life!

Take your first step toward a healthier life and register for a free informational seminar by calling us at (913) 498-6652.

5721 W. 119th Street • Overland Park, KS 66209 MenorahMedicalCenter.com/weightloss 18

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

ICE THE CELL PHONES IN YOUR CIRCLE As the cold weather blankets our area, a growing number of seniors may find themselves stuck in life threatening situations. They may slip and fall, their car might break down, and they may get lost, confused, or stranded – literally left out in the cold. That’s why Visiting Angels, one of the nation’s largest in-home senior care agencies, has launched the ICE a Cell Phone Safety Campaign to help seniors in case of emergency. To ICE a cell phone, you load emergency contacts in seniors’ phones with the word ICE in front of the emergen-

cy contacts’ names so when someone finds a senior in trouble they know who to call In Case of Emergency. The goal is that this will become a universal emergency plan – a quick way for emergency responders to pick up a senior’s cell phone, and press the letter ‘I’ to find seniors’ emergency contacts quickly. Simple steps: • Under ‘I’ in the contact list, load the contact names, beginning with the word ICE (ie:ICE_Heather). • Make sure the emergency contact(s) agree to be an ICE partner. • Include every phone number (home/cell/ work) of the ICE partner. • ICE partners should be aware of medical conditions, doctors’ names and medications.

PRAIRIE VILLAGE BLUE MOOSE BAR & GRILL GETS A FACELIFT Blue Moose Bar & Grill, the popular KC Hopps Ltd. restaurant located in the Prairie Village Shops, recently underwent an interior makeover. It is the first major interior facelift during the restaurant’s 12 years of operation. “Our business at the Prairie Village Blue Moose has been extremely strong for 12 years and as a result we wanted update our eatery and watering hole to serve our loyal customers for another 12 years” says CEO Chris Sutton. Highlighting the facelift will be a new color scheme, new lighting and décor, a new seating layout and a garage door which will open to the front side patio. The interior facelift follows last year’s project when the sunroom was enclosed for year-round seating and also as a room for special events and private group dining. The restaurant features a variety of small plates, seasonal salads, gourmet pizzas and sandwiches, steaks, chops and seafood as well as great drink specials.

LOCAL DESIGNER WINS DESIGN FOR A DIFFERENCE Johnson County designer Stephanie Stroud is national winner of Design for a Difference, sponsored by International December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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Around Town Design Guild. The contest allows interior designers to express their talents for the good of those in need within their communities. Stroud’s winning design benefits Operation Breakthrough, an early childhood education and social services facility serving low-income families in the urban core. “I could not be happier,” says Stroud. “Not only is the space in much need of an overhaul, but the women and children using this space are so deserving.” Stroud and Madden-McFarland Furniture & Design Boutique receive $25,000 in goods and services to execute the project. The Leawood firm leveraged the prize to draw in additional resources and expand the project well beyond its original scope. “We are thrilled to be joined by our industry colleagues to create a magnificent space at Operation Breakthrough for the children and their families to enjoy.” says Patrick Madden.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

BLUE VALLEY WEST STUDENT EARNS PERFECT ACT Shyam Narayanan, Blue Valley West senior, has achieved something less than one-tenth of one percent of ACT test takers nationwide achieve—a perfect score of 36. The ACT is a college entrance exam that tests in the areas of English, reading, math and science. “Shyam has demonstrated excellence in every endeavor he has pursued,” says Brett Potts, Blue Valley West principal. “He consistently performs at a world-class level academically. This perfect ACT score is among many exemplary accomplishments for Shyam. Indeed we are very proud of him and are so glad he is a Blue Valley West Jaguar.” Narayanan joins five other students in Blue Valley to achieve a perfect ACT score this year, and is one of three Blue Valley West seniors to earn a perfect ACT score.

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Star Student

St. James Volleyball Player Garners National Attention Article Charles Redfield | Photography Provided

hen you are a six-foot-five inch high school junior girl, it is tough to avoid being noticed, especially on the volleyball court. Audriana Fitzmorris has had amazing success in national, international and high school volleyball. The St. James Academy junior has been part of two state championship teams for the Thunder. And she has been part of two United States volleyball teams that have experienced success on the international level. “I think the most important thing people should know about this young woman is that she is a teenage girl that has incredible pressure on her to be this great high school player,” says Thunder coach Nancy Dorsey. “While she has handled that so well, there isn’t a place that she goes that people don’t point her out or stop and watch her play.” The Thunder junior has had great success on the international scene. In the summer of 2013, she had a successful trip to Thailand for the World Championships as a member of the national Under 18 team. “We were honored to be the first USA youth team to compete in the championship match where we placed second (to China),” says Fitzmorris. “I was also individually honored to be chosen as the best middle blocker of the tournament. I enjoyed every moment spent with the wonderful staff and teammates as we prepared for a month together in Anaheim before leaving for Thailand.” This past summer, Fitzmorris made the USA Junior National team (under 20) that competed in the NORCECA (North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation) Tournament in Guatemala. “At this tournament we placed first and therefore qualified for the world tournament that will be held in Turkey next year,” says Fitzmorris. The Thunder junior suffered an injury at the Olympic Training 22

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

Center in Colorado that was believed to be a sprain, but doctors in Kansas City proved it to be a chip in the bone. She would like to participate in the Olympic Games. “My ultimate goal and dream would be to represent the USA someday,” she says. The 2016 Olympics will be in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and the 2020 Olympics will be in Tokyo, Japan. “For the moment, I need to focus one day at a time to work on strengthening all aspects of my game. Right now my immediate goal is to prepare for my first step as a collegiate-level student athlete.” Fitzmorris got her start in volleyball at a young age. “My older sister played volleyball and I would tag along to watch her play at tournaments,” she says. “At first I would start practicing on my own, and then I started playing CYO volleyball.” What are her strengths in the sport? “I consider my blocking and attacking in motion as my personal strengths,” she says. “Also, I try to maintain a strong work ethic and be a dependable teammate that works to make others around me better.” She does have some items in her game to work on. “I need to continue to work on my serve receive and defense while playing back row,” she says. “I need to have a more effective transition from blocking to hitting.” What does her high school coach Nancy Dorsey say? “Fitz is a good all-around player, which at her height is uncommon,” says Dorsey. “She can literally perform all skills. Her presence at the net is a force to be reckoned with. She can shut down other hitters, just by being at the net. She has gotten very good at involving herself in the offense on every play. She works hard to improve every aspect of her game.” Will we see Fitzmorris at the Olympics in 2016 or 2020? “With her height, her mobility, her natural ability and her work ethic, she can literally do anything in the sport she puts her mind to,” adds Dorsey. “We are all very excited to see where she goes from here.”

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Your Neighbor

Meet Don Miller, the Man Who Makes the Trains Run Article Lisa Allen | Photography Parker Harrison

here’s a meticulously created world living in Don Miller’s basement. What started in 1955 with the gift of a Lionel train from his parents has become a hobby like no other for Miller. Ever since that very first train, he says, he’s been hooked. So hooked, in fact, that he stored a plywood base under his bed in graduate school that he and his classmate pulled out to play with on the floor of their dorm room. Fast forward to 2003, when Miller and his wife moved into their current house. They both knew that the unfinished basement would become Miller’s space to create a landscape filled with unique scenery. “Judy’s not a train enthusiast,” says Miller, “but she’s very supportive. Together, she and I hit the after-Christmas sales to look for pieces for our Christmas villages.” A physicist and electrical engineer—and now teacher—by trade, Miller says there are several types of train hobbyists: some who

gravitate toward the artistic expression that comes with building elaborate landscapes through which the trains run, and some whose real thrill is in the mechanics of making the trains run. Miller falls into that second category. “What really excites me is the electrical engineering part,” he says. “I have to push myself when it comes to the scenery details, but that has been fun, too, and the scenery bug has bit me pretty badly!” Anyone with any type of skill can find a spot in this hobby. “It’s like having erector sets for grownups,” says Miller. “One distinction is that I am a not a model railroad replicator. There is that facet of the hobby, but I am a toy train collector and operator. This is a different aspect.” Part of what Miller loves most is that the world he’s created is interactive, and he often invites people in to see the trains run. “There are buttons to push to make certain things work a particular way, and candy in some of the cars that makes it a bit more

A physicist and electrical engineer—and now teacher— by trade, Miller says there are several types of train hobbyists: some who gravitate toward the artistic expression that comes with building elaborate landscapes through which the trains run, and some whose real thrill is in the mechanics of making the trains run.

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

whimsical,” he says. “One of the reasons I do this is to share, and to encourage others to get engaged. It’s fun to help people rekindle the memories they have of trains they had when they were younger, and to introduce kids to a unique hobby.” Miller mentors two boys who help him with various tasks to keep everything running smoothly. He says that even though the hobby is incorporating new technology, such as using an iPad to run the layout, building the train routes and the communities through which they run inspires imagination and sharpens organizational skills. “There are little stories that come to life,” says Miller. “For example, there are two backyards, full of little operating accessories. One backyard has grass that is greener than the other, and I often ask kids ‘which one of these two families do you think uses a lawn service?’ They have to think that through, and maybe they talk about how the yard with the less vibrant grass is one in which kids play with friends in the backyard, while the other is more attended, but less active. Creating those scenarios inspires the brain, and the more you look, the more stories you see. “With the direction this hobby is heading, there’s room to incorporate the nostalgia of the trains with the technology these young boys are accustomed to.” Miller serves as President of the Heart of America chapter of the Train Collector’s Organization, and says that retirement allows him the opportunity to treat his hobby almost as a profession. “I still have that first train,” says Miller, “and I especially enjoy seeing the passion I had when I was young so evident in the boys who help me out and in the people who come to see what we’ve created.” Learn more about the Heart of America chapter of the Train Collector’s Organization at TcaHoa.org.

December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Hometown Hero

How One Person Can Change the Village Article Anne Potter Russ | Photography Provided

oward Spencer is one man... one man with a little extra time in his well-earned retirement. Well, he did have some free time, but that was fourteen years ago. After 31 years at Proctor and Gamble as a sales executive, he had certainly earned the right to buy a few clubs, seek a warm climate and ask for the odd mulligan now and again. But, not seeing any reason to sit still, Spencer decided that he could spend some time and energy volunteering through his church, The Church of The Resurrection, in south Leawood. What started out as a few swimming lessons for under-served youth in the inner city, soon turned into a full-time passion for educating the kids who need it most. Grace United Church at 8th and Benton Streets was the lucky recipient of Spencer’s time when he first started with weekend projects, like the swimming lessons, or building a garden. What he found, after spending some time with the youth, was that a tutoring program was desperately needed. Most of the kids in the district weren’t reading at their grade level, much less seeking success in the three R’s. So, Spencer and his friend, Judy Knorr, built - from scratch - a reading tutoring program. Knorr had retired from the Blue Valley School District after a career as a reading specialist and heading up their elementary reading program. She set to work structuring the after-school tutoring program Spencer envisioned. She established testing standards to find out where children were on the reading spectrum, and she created 400 packets of materials that anyone could use when doing one-on-one work with the kids. Initially, in 2004, the program served 40-50 youth, who would come in one or two days a week for assistance from a handful of volunteers. Knorr had found resources, downloaded books, created materials and was ready for kids, grades K-2 to take advantage of the opportunity. After working with the structure for a while, Judy and Howard expanded the program to grades 3-6, and added a more rigorous curriculum. Kids received assignments, took notes, read several books, and had to create book reports. Teachers in the district were thrilled. With an increased tutoring timeframe of four days a week, and the critical ingredient of one-on-one tutoring relationships, children could make up an entire year of reading deficiencies, thus

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

getting most of them up to grade level for the first time ever. Volunteers also agreed to attend parent-teacher conferences so that everyone in the child’s educational view was on the same page. Grace United Community Ministries is now the official name of the non-profit organization that has grown from Spencer’s humble ideas more than ten years ago. And, his friends from COR are still involved. With their devotion and contribution of more than 30,000 volunteer hours, Grace United Church has been transformed, physically - so that it may house other transformations - spiritually and intellectually. They built classrooms and stairways, and added lights, insulation and windows, among other improvements. It really does take a village. Spencer is proud that the kids, now numbering 92 this year, are picked up from school, brought to the church, fed a snack, tutored by 36 volunteers, and returned to their homes in vans in time for dinner. Howard and Judy and the volunteers have given a true gift to these children. Providing for a child to spend the time between 3:30 and 5:45 in a personal educational experience has been huge motivator for them to become life-long learners, which is really the objective of any educational system. The program is still seeking volunteers to help with their reading and tutoring initiative, especially on Mondays and Wednesdays. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Howard Spencer at HowardS@everestkc.net.

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WEDDINGS ~ EVENTS ~ PORTRAITS ~ EDITORIAL December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Artist's Palette

Deer Herd onÂ BeaconÂ Hill

Introducing the Art of Drew Bodner What brought you to the KC area? I was born in Kansas City, and I have remained in the area. I moved to Prairie Village after college and worked at Shawnee Mission Health Hospital for 39 years before retiring. Describe your art. Although Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a Kansan, my art also conveys my American West roots in Montana where my grandparents homesteaded in 1892. My father grew up there ranching with his family and now my wife and I spend our summers there and continue the legacy. Much of my Montana art tells the stories of my experiences there. The color values and shadows found in the old barns and other reminders of the past com28

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

bine with my love of wildlife to express the timelessness of nature. The prairie has remained largely unchanged in this part of the country, yet the prairie grasses and structures remind me of the beauty of Kansas.

What inspires you? Part of my inspiration comes from our historic ranch, the N Lazy J. It is on the remote prairie next to the side hills of the Highwood Mountain range in central Montana. This is the real old west where the last of the big herds of buffalo roamed. The small town grain elevators, old wagons, long abandoned homes and buildings all beg to be painted. I have a love of nature that has led me to paint in other places. I enjoyed painting birds and flowers in Alabama, Arizona, Florida and of course our beautiful state of Kansas Another inspiration is helping people. I teach art at the Learning Club, which is an inner city

Last Signs of Winter

after-school program for at-risk students. These students inspire me to develop new art projects for them. Where did you study art? I have studied with Lee Hammond and Jim Ryon in Johnson County and Jerry Yarnell in Oklahoma.

Egret

Where can people see your art? My art is on display at the KU Regents Center, Best of Montana in Great Falls, Mont. and the Prairie Collection gallery in Stanford, Mont. The Senior Arts Council places art in the various venues continually throughout Kansas City. Occasionally, my art appears in Medmonthly.com digital magazine. My art can be found on my web site MontanaMuses.com. I have been juried

into the Leawood Arti Gras show the last two years and into the Images Gallery in Overland Park.

Flowers from Janieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden

Raynesford Grain Elevator

What art organizations do you belong to? I belong to Studio 706 and the Mid Montana Art Society in Montana where I have been the featured artist multiple times. Additionally, I am a member of the Senior Arts Council of Kansas City, Mo.

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Finding Your Fit Four Corners College Planning helps seniors find their perfect college Article Heather Trent Beers | Photography Alexis Cook

hen you hear the word “senior” perhaps your eyes light up with hopes of free coffee or a discount at your favorite neighborhood restaurant. Mention “senior” to Stilwell mom Sherry Humphrey, though, and her wheels spin with thoughts of nabbing your child the best college fit to match their personality and your pocketbook. It started for Humphrey after she and her husband Mark, an orthopedic surgeon, successfully launched their four kids into the world via four different colleges. “We love Stilwell,” she says. “We’ve lived in the same house for 26 years, and all of our kids went to the same schools.” When it came to college choices, though, Humphrey clearly saw that a “one-size-for-all” approach would do her children no favors. College planning can be overwhelming for parents. Humphrey, though, found her sweet spot in that challenge. “I loved everything about helping our kids search for colleges,” she says. Soon, a friend’s Facebook chatter about her new career in independent college consulting caught Humphrey’s attention. She already had her master’s in social work, but her pulse quickened when she remembered the excitement of helping her kids navigate those college roads. Looking around her newly empty nest, she decided she had plenty of room to soar in fresh ways on her own. She started by grilling her friend with questions about this new career, and she put her researching skills to work. Finally, she enrolled in the online Independent Educational Consultant Certificate Program through the University of California, Irvine. “I loved it,” says Humphrey. “Online school is such a different deal. You get to ‘meet’ people from all over the world, and you get to work around your schedule.” After a year and a half of steady work, Humphrey earned her certificate and has since joined two professional organizations: Independent Educational Consultant Association (IECA) and Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA). Both of these have stringent requirements for membership. As an independent college consultant, Humphrey visits 25 to 50 colleges every year to keep up on the landscape of higher education. “There are 4,000 colleges and universities in the United States,” she says. “Part of my job is to help families throw a wider net and see the myriad of options awaiting them.” Humphrey is passionate about helping kids find the right college fit. “About 43 percent of college students take six years to graduate,” she says. “My goal is to help families find the right school for their student—based on their child’s personality and academic profile—so their child can flourish and maybe even fin30

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

ish in four years.” That two-year gap between finishing in four years versus six years is an obvious savings of thousands of dollars. Humphrey insists that finding the right fit for your student is a giant step in that savings direction. Humphrey sees herself as part cheerleader, part educator, and even part nag. “Leaving home can be a stress to the family,” she says. “Not only because of the high activity level of high school, but also because of the deadlines rushing at you. So I try to take as much stress out of the parents’ laps as I can so they can just parent and enjoy this ride with their child.” Because of the craziness of the senior year, Humphrey encourages families to come to her early—even as early as their child’s freshman year. College planning doesn’t have to be one mad dash at the end of high school. It can be a leisurely and satisfying stroll. But what if your child graduates this May and you are in a mad dash right now? Give Humphrey a call and let her talk you down from the ledge. She provides a free 30-minute consultation, too, if you need more information. “There’s a school out there for everybody,” she says. “I just know it.” According to Humphrey, a good college fit equals a happy student who graduates. And if they graduate in four years, that could mean extra money in your pocket to spend on your own senior discounts. For more information, visit FourCornersCollegePlanning.com or call 913.221.3525.

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Volunteer Driver Program for Older Adults Making a Difference in the Metro Article Ruth Baum Bigus | Photography Provided

nternist Mel Glazer retired from his medical practice several years ago after a lengthy career helping others. However, the doctor was not content to sit back, play an occasional game of golf and stop his helping ways. So Glazer took on a new role, one he says is easy to fulfill -- that of volunteer driver with JET Express. A program of Jewish Family Services, JET Express provides rides for older adults who no longer drive, taking them to the places they need to go. Whether it’s to the doctor’s office, shopping, to synagogue or church, or to meet a group of friends for a social outing, JET Express is helping older adults stay independent longer, and the volunteers who help them feel like they make a difference in someone’s life. “People are so grateful,” Glazer says. “It’s such a positive thing… and it’s one that fits with anyone’s schedule.” Glazer provides rides for Charlie Carpenter, a blind man who lives alone with his beloved dog. Glazer takes Carpenter to the grocery store where the two men shop and gently bicker over what items to buy. Because of their rides together, the two men have become the best of friends. JET Express needs more people like Glazer to become volunteer drivers for the program. Expanding the cadre of volunteer drivers is crucial. During one month this fall, 77 rides were can-

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

celled because there were not enough volunteers to take them. Becoming a volunteer is convenient, flexible and rewarding—and anyone can participate regardless of their religious affiliation. Volunteer drivers choose when, where and who they drive. Using a simple computer program, volunteer drivers log in to choose how often they want to provide rides whether it’s once a month or every week. The friendships that are created by being a volunteer driver are beyond measure. It’s easy to become a JET Express driver. Qualifications include: • You must be at least 21 years of age; • You must hold a valid driver’s license and have current auto insurance coverage; • You must use your own vehicle. Volunteer drivers must take part in a brief, one-hour training session. If you’re interested in volunteering for JET Express, please call 913.730.1410. Since the program began in 2008, JET Express has provided 11,940 rides to 401 riders. That adds up to more than 10,701 volunteer hours donated with 148,213 volunteer miles driven. There are currently 170 active older adult riders in the program.

The ultimate bond-building, memory-making travel experience. Article and Photography Molly Williams

n my rootless days before our daughter was born, travel was a constant for me. My parents instilled in my brothers and me a love of seeing new places and leaving the familiar behind for short bursts, with the comfort of knowing my home was always waiting for me. As a young adult I was my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frequent travel companion for wine adventures in Europe and beachy outings to Mexico. When I married, my husband and I were inveterate travelers. We thought nothing of taking off at a momentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notice for a weekend in a coastal town or grabbing a last minute deal on an all-inclusive anywhere. When Natalie arrived fifteen years ago, there was no thought to changing that existence. After all, she had come to live with us,

not the other way around, we reasoned. Adaptation to our wanderlust would be part of her upbringing. In those first few years, as she grew up into our lives, tying us as securely to her routine as a vine winding up the post holds it down to the earth, we slowed our pace. But we soon discovered a great travel truth - a child is eminently portable, and therefore an excellent travel accessory. Granted, they come with a lot of stuff, but in the days before excess baggage fees that was a minor concern. Soon Natalie was as good at airport security and pulling her own travel weight as any jet-setter. But the aforementioned mother was not to be left behind. Add to that the desire to spend as much time as possible with our aging

We decided travel could and should be a family affair; a multi-generational adventure that has something for everyone.

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

and which allows each to contribute their own preferences and life perspectives. Traveling together would have the added benefit of providing closeness that only being away from home together can bring, not to mention the ability to appreciate one another away from the stressors and habits of our daily lives at home. Grand-tripping was born.

parents and the grown daughter, who had by this time relocated to KC to be nearer family. We also wished to forge strong bonds between Natalie and her grandparents and older sister, ones not dependent upon us and only accompanied by turkey or Christmas carols. We decided travel could and should be a family affair; a multi-generational adventure that has something for everyone

Our first adventure with the grandmothers was a week in Mexico. I made the travel arrangements (so as to suit our more rigid work schedules) and they paid their own way (which they were thrilled to do with the prospect of having the undivided attention of their children and grandchild

for a week.) For weeks prior to the trip our regular Sunday dinners were filled with conversation about day trips, restaurants to try, sunscreens and swimsuits, and best of all, memories of trips taken years ago. My daughter heard stories of a runaway trip to Mexico City before my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wedding, and of a road trip vacation involving a bear, a snake and some roadside picnics when her father was a baby. The prospect of traveling all together brought out a side to our mothers that we had rarely seen and Natalie had never witnessed. Their quest for more adventure was not the slightest bit sated by the advancing years. The trip itself we made as painless as possible; direct flights, meals for the plane which I prepared and carried in a collapsible lunch bag, cars to meet us at the airport, private tours at historic places, early dinner reservations, and comfortable accommodations involving kitchens so we could eat at least a few meals comfortably and more affordably at home. We tried to build in nap time (necessary for all of us, not just the baby!) and were completely amenable to spontaneous modifications of the schedule. We practiced much patience with one another, and found that the relaxation of being on vacation brought out the best behavior in us all. Our first grand-trip was a huge success. We have since traveled together to Mexico seven times, to the eastern and western Mediterranean, spots in North Africa, all over Italy, along the St. Lawrence River from Montreal to Boston, to the Amalfi Coast, the volcano of Vesuvius and its ruined Pompeii, to New York and to the islands of Malta and Sicily. We have been in art galleries in Florence, the armory of the Knights Templar in Malta, and the souk in Tunisia (where the combined shopping influences of both grandmothers and daughter convinced me that splurging on a gorgeous Persian rug was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity - they were right.) We have attended Mass in cathedrals grand and continued >

December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

grand-tripping

(continued)

churches tiny all over the world, including the oldest extant church in North America where Mass is still said in French, and the lovely cathedral of Monaco, where Prince Albert was also a worshipper that day and Princess Grace’s tomb ever bears fresh flowers. One of our most memorable days was a private (well, as private as you can get with 5000 other people) audience in Vatican City with Pope Benedict on my mother-in-law’s 83rd birthday. Truly an experience none of us will ever forget, whether we have perhaps a dozen active years left, or our entire lifetime stretches out before us. We have discovered that cruising is a particularly painless way to travel with multiple generations. Advantages include only unpacking once, familiar food (especially wonderful when dealing with sometimes tricky and always finicky older and younger tummies) and best of all, predictable plumbing. My mother and I once paid admission to a public W.C. in Italy which we discovered to be a row of holes in a concrete floor with heel grooves thoughtfully

placed beside. Do not underestimate the soothing power of American bathroom engineering. On a cruise ship my husband dances divinely with both his mother and his daughter, my mother-in-law can entrance the piano bar with her singing, and my daughter learns the exquisite table manners and conversational skill that come from their com-

the islands or of the long-deceased grandfather my daughter never knew who served near there in WWII. That’s what grand-tripping does for us; we each will have the time to do what makes us happy and relaxed while traveling, while indulging in the ultimate luxury of being with those we love most. My daughter gets to bank these precious days with her grandmothers as security against a future when they may be too frail to join us, or when she is eventually traveling with her own family. There are many legacies I hope we are able to leave her, but this is the best - that of a lifetime of loving going and doing, with those she loves, across all our generations.

There are many legacies I hope we are able to leave my daughter, but this is the best - that of a lifetime of loving going and doing, with those she loves, across all our generations.

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

bined 170-plus years of ladyhood. I have the privilege of watching her bloom under their adoring attention while they get to pass on cherished family stories and memories. They are relaxed knowing every detail of travel will be handled by someone who knows their breaking points and makes sure their needs are met. We are currently planning a trip to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. While I don’t expect the “moms” to join us snorkeling, they will no doubt love to tell us stories of previous visits to

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KC Destination This Holiday Season?

he holidays in Kansas City can’t be beat! Plaza lights, tree lighting ceremonies, ice-skating, amazing shopping and endless holiday performances sprinkle the Kansas City landscape from the day after Thanksgiving well into January. A group of metro convention and visitors’ bureaus, also known as KC Destinations, says there’s more to do than you ever knew this holiday season in Kansas City. Make your list and check it twice to be sure you include all of the festive happenings across the region. Take a peek at this sampling….

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

and, if you’re looking for more holiday ideas, be sure to visit KCDestinations.com. Lights Aglow in KC. A local tradition for nearly 90 years, The Plaza Lights span 15 blocks on the famed Country Club Plaza, featuring thousands of glimmering, jewel-colored bulbs that accentuate every dome, tower and window of the Spanish-inspired shopping district (November 27 through January 18). If you want to see more lights, head several blocks north to Crown Center to view the massive Mayor’s

Christmas Tree, which stands at 100 feet. (November 28 through early January). Learn more at VisitKC.com. Step back in time as the Historic Independence Square is transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season. Every Saturday from November 15 through December 20 visitors are invited to experience a horse-drawn sleigh ride as the sound of holiday music fills the air from carolers around the square. Warm roasted chestnuts, apple cider, hot cocoa,

cookies and Santa Claus await each guest in the Visitors Experience Center located inside the Historic Jackson County Truman Courthouse. Call 816.325.7890 or click VisitIndependence.com. Get your holiday shop on at the new Merriam IKEA. You’ll find tons of ideas for those on your holiday shopping list. With affordable pricing and amazing inspiration, don’t forget to include a gift for yourself! Ikea-usa.com/Merriam Enjoy a trip to the past when touring five one-of-a-kind homes decorated for the holiday season, December 5 through 7 at the 33rd Annual Candlelight Homes Tour in Weston. Candle luminaries light the way from home to home and Father Christmas joins carolers and musicians to create a festive atmosphere for all ages. Visit WestonMo.com for details. Celebrate an Old World Christmas at Strawberry Hill Museum in Kansas City, Kan., November 22 through January 4. The 1887 Victorian Mansion will feature Christmas exhibits from many Eastern Europeans nationalities, ethnic foods and desserts and a visit from St. Nicholas. Open weekends, noon – 5 p.m.

also be on hand to hear children’s holiday wishes in the Gazebo. Lenexa.com/parks/Festivals_OldTown Drive up to Overland Park’s Farmstead Lane for an amazing 20-minute holiday light display synchronized to music. Display is free to watch and runs from 5-10 p.m. every evening November 27 through January 4 in the Farmstead’s main entrance parking lot. Pleasant Ridge Christmas Tree Farm in Franklin County boasts a dazzling Christmas light show just 40 minutes south on I-35. Hop in the car and roll down Memory Lane’s Christmas Light Show. This road of twinkling lights is a great family memory for years to come! Starting Thanksgiving night, the display is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights through Christmas Eve 5:30-10 p.m. Admission is $5 per car or $1 per person for buses and vans with more than 6 passengers. Visit PleasantRidge.com for more details.

Sar Ko Aglow – Kick off your holiday festivities by meeting up with friends and neighbors for a celebration at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park at 6 p.m. on December 5 for Sar-Ko Aglow in Lenexa. Bundle up and enjoy a stroll through the park while taking in the spectacular lights, sipping hot cocoa and listening to carolers. Santa will

December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Local Entrepreneurs Find

in Unusual Places Making the most of life’s second act.

Article Mary Bush | Photography Alexis Cook and McKenna Mathewson

F Kristin Gembala

our years ago, when Overland Park resident Kristin Gembala discovered she had the hereditary breast cancer gene BRCA1, she made the tough decision to undergo both a bilateral mastectomy with breast reconstruction and a hysterectomy. “The figures associated with the gene are staggering,” says Gembala. “My sister and I had about a 90 percent chance of having breast cancer and a 50 percent chance of having ovarian cancer.” Gembala’s family had a history with breast cancer. When she and sister Kara Gorski were children, their mother died from the disease at age 39. Years later, when Kara was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 35, she discovered she had the hereditary gene. Even though Kristin was not diagnosed with cancer, she knew it was time for her to be genetically tested, too. “Though it ran in the family, it still came as a shock to find I also had the gene,” says Gembala. “But it was obvious I needed to have the surgeries.” However, the sisters surprisingly soon found their experiences with breast cancer afforded them a rare, entrepreneurial opportunity. After finding that regular bras just didn’t fit right after reconstructive surgery, the pair did some research and found a niche in the marketplace they could address. “There are 94,000 reconstructive breast surgeries a year in this country,” says Gembala. “Though all women may not experience what we did with regular bras not fitting, we have found many who have.” Three years ago, the sisters addressed that need and formed their company braGGs, LLC. The name says it all. “The word ‘bra’, the double ‘Gs,’ which stand for our last names, and the ‘s,’ which stands for the sisterhood of women who have undergone mastectomies as a result of breast cancer,” says Gembala.

The sisters raised startup costs for braGGs via a crowdfunding website and divided their duties with Kara shipping the company’s products (which now also offers other undergarments) from her home near Alexandria, Va. Recently, braGGs has garnered quite a bit of attention. The company and Kara Gorski and Kristin Gembala were featured in a recent book authored by actress Marlo Thomas called “It Ain’t Over ... Till It’s Over!” In it, Thomas shares stories of bold women who won’t give up or be held back. They were also featured in late October on NBC’s Washington News and a few days later, received a surprising invitation from Vice President Joe Biden’s office. “We were asked to attend a Breast Cancer Awareness reception at the home of the vice president,” says Gembala. “My first reaction was complete shock, but then once again, the gentle whisper of just how far reaching and impactful breast cancer is.” Gembala’s comments circle back to why the sisters co-founded braGGs. Though the attention and accolades have been gratifying, the real reward comes from helping women move forward during a difficult time. “Women who have had breast cancer have gone through so much and they shouldn’t have to also stress about what they put on their bodies,” says Gembala. “There are still so many needs to be met but to offer some help is very gratifying to my sister and me.” Retirement Leads to New Business

Three years ago, when Lee’s Summit resident Marilyn Arnold retired as a managing partner for New York Life Insurance Company, her accountant asked what she planned to do next. Arnold admitted she didn’t know but knew she wanted to do something of value. Her accountant’s next question was a little more direct. “She asked what I wanted to be when I was a little girl,” says Arnold. “That was easier. I wanted to be a seamstress and dress designer.” For good reason. When her mother patiently taught her 9-yearold daughter to sew in their Paris, Mo., farmhouse all those years ago, Arnold fell in love with the creative craft of designing and making clothes. She even ended up creating her entire school wardrobe and showing her designs at the Missouri State Fair. Now at retirement age, Arnold still loved the idea of designing clothes but thought it a bit unrealistic. However, when a friend from Philadelphia asked her to make a custom pillow out of her old wedding dress and then others wanted their wedding gowns ‘preserved’ in the same creative way, the light bulb went off. As a former executive, Arnold knew research about any new endeavor is key and though she found very little competition for the pillows, her most important encouragement came from one special person. “I asked my 85-year-old mom what she thought and she immediately loved the idea,” says Arnold. “She even said she wanted one.” These days, Arnold lives in Lee’s Summit and has an impressive home studio (under the name Marilyn Arnold Designs) with five sewing machines including one for embroidery and two for continued >

Marilyn Arnold

entreprenuers (continued)

Marilyn Arnold Designs

serging. She markets, designs and creates not only pillows but also blankets and christening gowns from wedding dresses and has even made, at a client’s request, an entire crib set, including bed skirt, coverlet, bolster pillow and bumper from a wedding gown. Her customers are all over the country and since the pillows alone take about four to eight hours to make, she still has a full work week. “I’m retired but I still work a lot of hours,” says Arnold. “I love what I’m doing and in some ways, have come full circle back to my beginnings.” Earlier this year, Arnold’s new vocation caused her to be featured in a New York Times article about retired people reinventing themselves. The article focused not only on Arnold’s unusual business but her entrepreneurial spirit. She also receives kudos from a motivational, humorous presentation she created called “Your Second Act,” which features stories about older women’s achievements and experiences which Arnold has presented to Rotary Clubs locally and in the Northeast. She just put the finishing touches on another presentation called “Reuse, Repurpose, Restore: Transforming Keepsakes into Heirlooms.” It’s all been great,” says Arnold. “The wedding gown projects have provided such positive inspiration. They put my creativity on steroids.” To learn more about these amazing women and their products, visit them online at BraggsOnline.com and MarilynArnoldDesigns.com.

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

Thanks to a total joint replacement, you could be able to enjoy the activities you love again. Let’s face it, over time, just about everything seems to wear out – that includes knees, hips and shoulders. But today, there’s no reason to let chronic joint pain control your life, or your lifestyle. The Shawnee Mission Orthopedic & Spine Center offers highly-experienced physicians and advanced technology, which means less invasive

procedures, less pain and shorter recovery times. So you’ll be back in action sooner than ever. For information about the total joint replacement experience at Shawnee Mission Orthopedic & Spine Center, call 913-632-2571 or visit ShawneeMission.org/able today.

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10 Things You Always Wondered About Those Little BlueTaxis Y

ou can’t miss them when you are driving around town. The spunky royal blue cars stand out and seem to be out and about at all hours of the day. We wondered, and so we asked. 1. What prompted you to start the 10/10 service? The “Devil” made us do it – The “Devil” is a well-known customer of many Johnson County establishments. There was always a concern that he be driven home safely. Since there weren’t any cabs available in the market, a designated driver always took the responsibility, whether they wanted to or not. The idea for 10/10 Taxi™ started from that simple, but serious need.

2. What does 10/10 stand for? Whenever we asked Johnson County customers if they would use a taxicab service, we were always asked the same two questions; How much will it cost? How long will I have to wait? The answer to those questions formed our name. $10 for up to 5 miles. Service within 10 minutes. 3. When did the first blue taxi hit the streets of Johnson County? Service was launched with five taxicabs 46

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

in September 2010. The initial service area was a circle with a two-mile radius centered at the intersection of 110th & Metcalf. 4. How do I get a ride? Customers can order a 10/10 Taxi™ three ways: • To speak to a dispatcher, call 913.647.0010. • Thru our app zTrip - download in the App Store or Google Play. Ztrip.com. • To text for a pick-up, text 913.534.TAXI. Simply text your pick-up street address; i.e., 1234 Main St. Using a sophisticated GPS computerized dispatching system, the order is transferred to the nearest 10/10 Taxi™. Fares are $10 for up to 5 miles, plus $2 for each mile in excess of 5 miles. 5. What areas does 10/10 Taxi™ serve? Our taxicabs are available in all parts of Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas. We recently added service to Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs. 6. Are the taxis available 24 hours a day? We are available 24/7/365. There is never an extra charge for late night or weekend service.

7. It seems like we see these little blue cars all over town. How many taxis are in your fleet? From our initial fleet of 5 taxicabs, we now offer more than 135 vehicles. 8. We’ve seen a pink 10/10 taxi as well. What’s the story behind that colorful car? Our company has a long history of community involvement. One of our most visible commitments is our partnership with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Each time a passenger takes a trip in one of our three pink cabs, we donate $1 of the fare to BCRF. 9. Is 10/10 a franchise or something unique to our town? We are a division of Kansas City Transportation Group, the Midwest’s largest ground transportation provider. KCTG operates Yellow Cab, SuperShuttle, Carey Limousine, The KC Strip Trolley and many other transportation services in the metropolitan area. In 2013 we initiated 10/10 service in suburban Minneapolis and the suburbs of Austin, Texas. In March 2014 we launched in Orlando. 10. Can people buy 10/10 gift certificates for their family members who no longer drive? Yes

Driver's Notebook

Jaguar’s F-Type Coupe Strikes a Stunning Pose Article and Photography Tom Strongman

n 1961, the breathtakingly beautiful Jaguar XK-E knocked the automotive world on its ear and today it is often considered to be one of the 100 most beautiful cars in the world. While few modern cars can ever approach the XK-E’s sublime and sensuous beauty, I couldn’t help but think of it when I laid eyes on the 2015 F-Type coupe. The coupe’s long nose and flowing roofline bear more than a passing resemblance to the profile of the XK-E, also known as the E-Type. The muscular haunches and sharp character lines that punctuate the fenders all speak of power and speed. The car drew comments wherever I drove it. The coupe is the second F-Type model. The convertible was new last year. Jaguar has announced that production of the XK will cease this summer, leaving the smaller and less-expensive (relatively speaking) F-Type as the only Jaguar sports car. Compared to the XK, the all-aluminum F-Type feels lighter and more agile. It is an exceptionally competent machine that blends road holding with a ride that is firm but not harsh. It feels taut and secure yet it is pliant enough to be comfortable for a long drive. It is composed and confident in corners.

The coupe comes in base, S and R models. The base car with a 340-horsepower, supercharged V-6 starts at $65,000. Jump up to the S, with 380 supercharged horsepower, for a starting price of $77,000. The high-performance R gets 550-horsepower from its supercharged V-8 and it starts at $99,000. All use an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. I drove an S model from Jaguar’s press fleet, and found that the V-6 makes more than enough power. The engine has direct fuel injection, an Eaton supercharger, dual overhead cams and variable camshaft timing. Jaguar says the V-6 can hit 60 miles per hour in 4.8 seconds, and it has a top track speed of 171 mph. While the V-6 does not have the explosive acceleration of the V-8, it pins you back in the seat with a satisfying surge. The acceleration is enhanced by the active exhaust that can be opened up with a button on the console. It roars under full throttle and crackles during deceleration, and that’s fun. The test car’s light gray cabin was pleasant, almost calming. The extended leather package put soft hides on the seats, dash and headliner. The climate package added dual-zone climate concontinued >

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

SAVE THE DATE Women Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Changed the Heart of the City 8th Annual Luncheon Tuesday, April 14, 2015 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Central Time)

2o15 Honorees Barbara Friedmann ~ Hilda Fuentes ~ Mary Kay McPhee Sheraton Crown Center - Regency Ballroom 2345 McGee Kansas City, Missouri 64108 The 2015 luncheon will continue to celebrate and honor the women who have made a lasting mark on the fabric of our city through their tireless dedication.

Driver's Notebook

(continued)

blind spot monitor, dual-zone climate control, 14-way power seats, performance brakes, flat-bottom steering wheel, active exhaust and adjustable suspension. The sticker price was $92,125. Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles Contact Tom Strongman at Tom@TomStrongman.com.

trol, heated seats and heated steering wheel. Wind and road noise are nicely muted. Vents in the top of the instrument panel rise when the car is started and retract when it is turned off. For what reason, who knows, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a subtle way of welcoming the driver. The center console has three round multifunction knobs that control temperature, operate the fan and turn on the heated seats. Audio and navigation are controlled by a touch screen. The steering wheel has buttons for audio, cruise and hands-free telephone. The deep but somewhat narrow trunk has 11 cubic feet of space so packing light is the order of the day for weekend trips. An additional hidden storage space is under the trunk floor. There is no spare tire. Price: The base price of S coupe was $77,000. Options included heated seats and steering wheel, satellite radio, panoramic glass roof, Morzine cloth headliner, Cirrus carpet, adaptive headlights,

At A Glance Point: The F-Type S coupe combines a handsome profile with excellent road holding, a welcoming cabin and a supercharged V-6 whose exhaust lets the world know a performance car lies within. Counterpoint: I continue to be surprised that a car with a $77,000 base price has heated seats, dual-zone climate control and satellite radio as options. 2015 Jaguar F-Type S Coupe Engine: 3.0-liter, 380-horsepower V-6 Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive Wheelbase: 103.2 inches Curb weight: 3,514 pounds Base price: $77,000 As driven: $92,125 MPG rating: 19 in the city, 27 on the highway

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December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Giving Back

Fran Wolfe & Bunny Brown

Lynda Bennett

Many Hands, Many Cookies Local residents work together to make a big difference Article Mary Bush | Photography 4 Ft Photoz

o you like to bake cookies? So do Overland Park residents Fran Wolfe and Bunny Brown. As a matter of fact, the energetic duo is responsible for 21,595 cookies baked last year at Tallgrass Creek, an independent living, retirement community in Overland Park. But Brown and Wolfe didn’t bake them all and they certainly didn’t eat them all. The home baked cookies (an average of 1,700 a month) are a collaborative effort by about 50 residents at Tallgrass Creek who bake the cookies monthly for Marcia Merrick, a local, (and tireless!) volunteer. Merrick rises daily at 4 a.m. and makes 400 lunches for Kansas City’s homeless that consist of a peanut butter sandwich, chips, fruit, two homemade cookies and a note of encouragement. The homemade cookies are a must for Merrick. “When I was young, my grandmother made angel food cake for me and the smell while it was baking always conveyed care and love,” says Merrick. “I’d like the people who eat these lunches to feel some level of that same caring.”

Merrick delivers the lunches in the morning and again in the afternoon, stopping at homeless encampments around the metro. In between, she drives people to health clinics and social services offices and provides bedding, toiletries and other essentials for those who have nothing. Merrick made her first lunch for the homeless at age 16 and says she can’t imagine doing anything else. “This is just what I’m supposed to be doing,” says Merrick. “I’ve seen some amazing changes in people and never tire of encouraging disadvantaged folks not to give up.” Merrick’s humanitarian efforts have been spotlighted locally and in People magazine, The Huffington Post and Christian Science Monitor among other publications. She has also been honored as a KC Royals “All Star” for her selfless work. Wolfe and Brown say whatever attention Merrick receives is nothing compared to everything she does. “Marcia is simply an amazing woman with a huge heart for disadvantaged people,” says Brown. “She makes all the lunches each continued >

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

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Giving Back

(continued)

morning and bakes the cookies herself if someone else doesn’t. We stepped into give her a little help.” Wolfe and Brown got involved in 2010 when they heard about Merrick’s lunches and were particularly moved by her insistence that each lunch contain homemade cookies. The pair thought some of their fellow residents would like to help and that year about 20 Tallgrass Creek bakers made 624 cookies. Then things really took off. “We had more and more people who wanted to get involved,” says Wolfe. “Before we knew it, we were baking more than 1,000 cookies a month.” Wolfe, the counter of the cookies, reports that in 2011, the community’s enthusiastic bakers provided 12,528 cookies to be followed by 16,071 cookies in 2012. This year, Brown and Wolfe expect to exceed their 2013 total of 21,595 cookies. “Tallgrass Creek bakers make anywhere from two dozen to many dozen cookies a month,” says Wolfe. “In August, we baked 2,086 cookies. That was an all-time high.” The astounding array of yummy delights always includes Brown’s snickerdoodles and Wolfe’s molasses cookies. Many residents use family recipes for chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal-raisin, sugar or other homemade cookies that have been handed down through the years. Residents package their cookies two to a bag and drop them off on a designated day, time and place; Wolfe and Brown then box the cookies for Merrick’s pickup which is always scheduled mid-month. It’s very obvious when cookie day rolls around,” laughs Wolfe. “The halls smell wonderful.” Merrick says the people she delivers lunches to know when it’s time for the Tallgrass Creek cookies. “When mid-month rolls around, everyone looks forward to the Tallgrass cookies,” notes Merrick. “They know who makes the cookies, and the love and work that goes into them, and are especially grateful.” Wolfe and Brown say 2015 will be a bonanza year for cookies since Tallgrass Creek just opened the doors to a brand new, four-story, residential building. The new building has 87 large apartments that are almost totally reserved. That means one thing to Wolfe and Brown: more bakers. The dynamic duo has a clear message to the new residents who may be in the process of downsizing. “Bring your cookie sheets with you,” says Brown. “You’re going to need them.”

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December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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rinkles always seem to materialize at the most inconvenient times. Smoothing them around the eyes, out of life plans and from clothes used to require intensive labor. The new and improved Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus makes releasing wrinkles from fabric as easy as delivering a renewing spritz of the fabric-relaxing spray. Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus is much more than a replacement for the hassle of everyday ironing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The WonderBottle,â&#x20AC;? as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s known in its new campaign, has over 101 uses for the home, family and traveler. In addition to its ability to reduce wrin-

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

kles in clothes, it can be used as a quick-fix solution to remove creases from pillowcases, bed sheets, drapery, tablecloths, cloth napkins, ribbons on holiday decorations and many other household items. A quick spritz can also remove odors and freshen up furniture, pet beds and infant car seats just to name a few. For those who still want to iron, it serves as a better ironing aid than water without the residue of starch. And in a fashion emergency, it can even save the day by eliminating static cling. The new and improved sprayer delivers broader coverage to reduce drying time. Downy Wrinkle Release Plus works to

eliminate wrinkles by coating fabric fibers with silicone that allows them to relax and slide apart instead of being frozen in a crease. Simply spray, smooth and tug, then allow fabric to dry for a crisp, fresh smelling and wrinkle-free look in minutes. Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus is sold at Walmart, Target, Walgreens and many other grocery, drug, and mass retailers. It is sold in a 1-liter bottle for $6.99 and a 500 mL bottle for $4.19. It is also available in a travel-friendly 3-ounce size for $1.99. For more information visit DownyWrinkleReleaserPlus.com.

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Field Trip

History at Hangar 9 A Trip to the National Aviation History Museum Article Lisa Allen | Photography Provided

am the mother of three kids: two teenage boys and a tween-aged girl. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that their collective mission in life is to disagree and prove each other wrong. So imagine my surprise when each of them agreed that visiting a museum—a local museum, no less—sounded like fun. I saw the immediate draw for the boys: knowing they’d see machines that fly trumped the fact that the word ‘history’ was in the name of the destination. So we set off from our home on the Kansas side of the state line and ventured north to Hangar 9 at the downtown airport in Kansas City, Missouri. We were greeted by two volunteers when we entered, and promptly directed to our seats— actual airline seats from days gone by—to watch a video about the history of aviation. After the video we were allowed to wander through a room of exhibits. The museum says it is the nation’s premiere commercial aviation museum, and that its

purpose is to preserve, maintain and operate historic aircraft while educating and inspiring the public. The exhibit room includes original passenger seats and vintage Country Club Plaza posters that celebrate TWA, but it was the uniforms and vintage information about airline stewardesses that most interested my daughter. We looked at the “Pretty Girl” uniforms

weight restrictions were imposed. Women who stood 5’3” to 5’4” had to weigh between 105 and 120 pounds, for example, and none could be taller than 5’6” or weigh more than 130 pounds. My boys were more interested in the docent led tour through the aircraft structures. We started with the Dehmel Trainer, named after Dr. Richard C. Dehmel, who received a patent in 1950 for a device that used electronic circuits to duplicate an aircrafts’ responses to control inputs. We moved on to the TWA Moonlighter, which is on loan from its owner, and to the other aircraft in the hangar. We didn’t walk away remembering the names or the designations of each aircraft but we were smitten with the stories and peppered with science lessons. Our tour guide paid attention to each of us, asking, for example, if we knew what pressurization is as we toured the Martin 404. It was fascinating to walk through a restored cabin and see the sleeper space,

The museum says it is the nation’s premiere commercial aviation museum, and that its purpose is to preserve, maintain and operate historic aircraft while educating and inspiring the public. that were worn from 1938-1944. We read about the restrictive rules that were imposed on original flight attendants: they had to be a Registered Nurse, between the ages of 21 and 26, and unmarried for the duration of their service. Height and

continued >

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

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December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Field Trip

(continued)

their posted closing time, owner Jeff Dover welcomed us in and encouraged us to stay. As we nibbled on our treats—gigantic cinnamon rolls for each of my kids, an apricot cheese croissant for me—he told us that they go through two tons of flour every week, and that the postcards that are scattered under the glass topper at each table have been mailed by to Dover

where only celebrities could afford to rest their heads. He pointed out the seat in which Jim Carrey sat for the filming of Ace Ventura When Nature Calls and talked of the movie The Aviator, which featured the Lockheed Super “G” Constellation, affectionately known as “Star of America.” It was fun to walk into the cockpits and sit in the pilot and co-pilot’s chairs, and the kids learned that the navigator—not the pilot—was responsible for charting the stars and calculating where the plane was at any given moment. In a world filled with GPS and computer programs, the brief time we spent revisiting how air travel started was a keen reminder not only of history, but of progress and determination. We left reminded that airline travel

as we know it is only convenient and accessible because of the rich history and dedication of so many men and women through history. Since we weren’t yet ready to return home—and starving after our two hour tour—we drove the 10 minutes to Armour Road and made it just in time to nab the last hot dogs at Clay’s Curbside Grill. The Coney Dog was delish. My daughter loved the Slaw Dog and my oldest has already asked if we can go back again for the KC Dog. To walk off our lunch, we wandered up Armour Road and stopped into LeMonde Bakery. Even though it was fifteen minutes past

by customers who have ventured to places across the globe. We left reminded that there are interesting stories and sweet treats everywhere, even close to home, if we only stop to look. For more information about the National Airline Museum, visit AirlineHistory.org.

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Picture This

Local Artist Creates a Royal Tribute

At the behest of her brother-in-law, Jim Fell, manager of the HyVee Grocery in east Lee’s Summit and probably the single biggest sports fan on the planet, local artist Tina Garrett painted, in his words, “Something to commemorate the Royals making it to the World Series.” Each time she saw him he’d ask, “Did you paint it yet?” All week, during the World Series, she stewed on images sent to her by friends who were lucky enough to attend the games. The

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

fountains, the stadium from the sky-high seats… there were so many beautiful shots to reference yet none of them felt quite right. Then, the day after watching game five, it hit her — what a tremendous vibe was over Kansas City, what a hopefulness and spirit of pride and joy. It was everywhere! Pride and joy were in the air. In the sky. “KC Royal Blue Skies” 26x19.5 Original Oil on Linen available at TinaGarrett.com/shop.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

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Lifestyle Calendar

December December 4 COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE STANLEY

Make an appointment to help save a life. Join neighbors and friends at the Presbyterian Church of Stanley (14895 Antioch) between noon and 6:30 p.m. for a Community Blood Center blood drive. Donors must be 17.

Johnson Drive. There will be a caroling, free s’mores and hot chocolate, cookie decorating, Holiday Shoppe, horse drawn sleigh rides and more. The mayor will flip the switch that will light up the city at 8:15 p.m. Musical fireworks will end the evening.

DECEMBER 5 & 6 HOLIDAY LUMINARY WALK OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS

The Arboretum’s year tops off with the 15th annual Holiday Luminary Walk. This major fund-raiser features a mile of beautiful candlelit trails, holiday lights and live entertainment, Santa for the kids, horse-drawn wagon rides, a bonfire and warm refreshments. 5-9 p.m. ArtsAndRec-OP.org

DECEMBER 5, 6, 12 & 13 REDEEMING BIRTH: A WALK THROUGH BETHELEHEM SHAWNEE

From 6:30 – 9 p.m. An opportunity for the whole family to experience the Christmas Story. You are invited on an interactive walk through the city of Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth. See people at work in the marketplace with busy shopkeepers and vendors everywhere. Smell the fragrant scents of herbs, spices and breads. See the potters, weavers and carpenters at work. Visit a crowded inn and a humble stable where the King of Kings was born. Tours will be conducted every 20 minutes. 7320 Quivira Road, Shawnee. 913.268.6300 GCFC.net

DECEMBER 6 & 7 DECEMBER 4-21 OLIVER! THE MUSICAL CROWN CENTER

Musical Theater Heritage is breaking out their own Charles Dickens story this Christmas at Crown Center with OLIVER! The Musical! Featuring a cast of 50 people, OLIVER! is loaded with fun, catchy songs, and is considered a timeless classic. MTH is joining forces with Toys for Tots again this year - so if you bring a new, unwrapped toy, you can receive one free ticket to see the show. Details are online and performances are at the Off Center Theatre at Crown Center. 816.545.6000 MTHKC.com

DECEMBER 5 Holiday Lights & Festive Sights MISSION

The Holiday Lights and Festive Sights annual event will celebrate the spirit of the holiday season in Mission from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will pay a visit in a musical sleigh ride down 66

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

NUTCRACKER TEA OVERLAND PARK

Friends of Overland Park Arts invite you to experience this annual tradition at the Ritz Charles featuring Legacy School of the Arts. Enjoy a 1-hour version of this holiday classic. ARFOp.org

DECEMBER 7 NATURE CENTER HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE IRONWOODS PARK

Please stop in for our annual holiday open house at the Prairie Oak Nature Center to help us celebrate the holiday season. Bring your children to visit the reptiles, amphibians, fish and see what birds are outside at the feeders. There will be staff on-hand to answer nature and program questions. Crafts and refreshments available. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free.

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Lifestyle Calendar

DECEMBER 9 2014 ANNUAL MEETING & HALL OF FAME AWARDS OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER

Foam Factory. Have a blast with friends and family. This rocking New Year’s Eve party is an early-evening, totally kid-friendly celebration. Noon – 6 p.m. Paradise-Park.com

Join more than 300 fellow Chamber members and business leaders as we celebrate a great year! The fun begins at 11:15 a.m. at the Overland Park Convention Center, (6000 College Blvd.) Keynote address by Silpada co-founders Teresa Walsh and Bonnie Kelly, along with their daughters and co-presidents, Ryane Delka and Kelsey Perry; moderated by FOX 4 News anchor John Holt. LeawoodChamber.org

DECEMBER 20 MEET MR. & MRS. CLAUS OVERLAND PARK

Come meet the duo in red that makes it all happen. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be making an appearance at Prairiefire Entertainment District at 135th and Lamar before they get too busy for the big event. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. Visit Prairiefire.com for more information.

DECEMBER 31 FAMILY NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY PARADISE PARK

3-2-1…Happy 2015, everybody! You are invited to ring in the New Year early with the legendary Ball Drop at Paradise Park’s

Custom Cabinetry

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

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Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

West College Dermatology & aesthetiCs Laura Feemster Licensed Medical Aesthetician Certified Laser Technician 15 Years Experience in Medical Aesthetics, 6 Years with Plastic Surgeon

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December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Business Directory Art & Photography Art & Frame Warehouse (Overland Park) (913) 385-9199 afwkc.com Gil Rumsey Gallery (913) 341-0128 gilrumseyart.com

Dry Cleaners

Fashion & Accessories

Tide Dry Cleaners (913) 534-4569 tidedrycleaners.com

Tivol (816) 531-5800 tivol.com

Education Park University (888) 319-9522 park.edu/nlls

Town Center Plaza (913) 498-1111 towncenterplaza.com

Red Couch Photography (816) 519-0929 redcouchphotos@gmail.com

The Barstow School (816) 277-0413 barstowschool.org/visiting

Financial Services & Planning

Automotive

Entertainment & Recreation

Kings Quality Auto Sales (913) 851-7400 kingsqualityautosales.com Santa Fe Tow Service (913) 894-5201 santafetowservice.com

Community Events & Organizations Lees Summit Chamber of Commerce (816) 969-1220 lsmeansbusiness.net

Dentists & Orthodontics H2O Orthodontics (913) 782-7223 h2orthodontics.com

Retirement Solutions Group 8554RSGUSA incomenowkc.com

Monarch Room (816) 935-7904 heritageeventspaces.com

Searcy Financial Services (913) 814-3800 searcyfinancial.com

CenterFire (913) 782-4900 centerfiress.com

Waddell & Reed (913) 491-9202 donnatilden.wfra.com

Kansas City Zoo (816) 595-1234 kansascityzoo.org

Health & Wellness

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

Healthy Meals Inc (816) 587-6325 healthymealsinc.com

Reflections Body Solutions - Body Contouring and Medical Spa (913) 322-3433 reflectionsbodysolutions.com

Seeking Solace Yoga (913) 735-9407 seekingsolaceyoga.com

Home Builders & Remodelers

Larson Building Company (913) 221-0880 larsonbc.com A&M Home Furnishings (913) 438-3868 amhomefinishings.com Design Connection Inc (913) 851-8776 designconnectioninc.com House of Denmark (913) 649-6900 houseofdenmarkfurniture.com Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com Ten Thousand Villages (913) 642-8368 overlandpark.tenthousandvillages.com

Home Services Granite Garage Floors (913) 752-9906 granitegaragefloors.com

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KC Wood (913) 422-3320 kcwood.com

Mid America Rehab Hospital (913) 491-2400 midamericarehabhospital.com

City Union Mission (816) 931-0050 cityunionmission.org

Legacy Flooring Gallery (913) 780-6060 legacyflooring1.com

HCA Midwest/Overland Park Regional Medical Center (913) 541-5000 oprmc.com

The Amos Family Funeral Home (913) 631-5566 amosfamily.com

Saint Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MidAmerica Heart Institute (913) 317-7139 golifekc.org

Property & Real Estate

LuLu & Mimiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cleaning (913) 649-6022 luluandmimis.com Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com Summit Flooring and Turf (816) 886-2747 summitflooringandturf.com Tile & Stone Warehouse (913) 432-7900 tileandstonewarehouse.com

Insurance

American Family Insurance Cole Wilson (913) 681-3000

Medical Clinics & Facilities

Saint Luke's South Hospital (913) 317-7795 saintlukeshealthsystem.org/ southbaby Shawnee Mission Medical Center (913) 632-2571 shawneemission.org/able Visiting Nurses Association (816) 531-1200 vnakc.com West College Dermatology & Aesthetics (913) 888-3376

After Hours Pediatrics (913) 825-4700 after-hourspediatrics.com

Zounds Hearing (913) 800-5147 zoundshearing.com

HCA Midwest Health Menorah Medical Center (913) 498-6652 menorahmedicalcenter.com/ weightloss

Other

Cates Auction & Realty Company, Inc. (816) 781-1134 catesauction.com

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

Restaurants, Food & Beverage EBT Restaurant (816) 942-8870 ebtrestaurant.com

The Kansas City Steak Company (877) 347-8325 kansascitysteaks.com

Coldwell Banker Thesa Alsobrook (913) 636-8118 goodlifekc.com

Salons & Spas

Gail G. Dicus Keller Williams Realty (913) 709-1060 gaildicus.com

Specialty Shops

RE MAX Heartland 360 Partners (816) 373-8400 360lifestyleproperties.com The Communities at River Ridge (816) 898-5477 lettinann.com The Kim Yuille Team (913) 558-9533 kimskeytokc.com

Sunlighten Day Spa (913) 754-2023 sunlightdayspa.com

Annie's Barn etsy.com/shop/AnniesBarn Picket Fences & Petals (913) 651-4142 picketfencesandpetals.com The Euro Pottery Shop (913) 680-0806 europottery.com

Travel & Leisure The Elms Resort & Spa 1800-THE-ELMS elmshotelandspa.com

The Rob Ellerman Team Reece & Nichols Realtors (816) 304-5525 therobellermanteam.com

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December 2014 | Johnson County Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

OMG, Grandma’s On Twitter Words Denise Snodell

y mom is a seasoned AARP member. She called me one day, and said in a bemused tone, “When I type my password, it turns into small dots.” Adorable, yes, and also an indicator of a trend I’m noticing: Though it’s sometimes a struggle, more senior citizens are determined to get hip with technology. The Pew Research Center recently reported 66 percent of adults 65 or older now go online, and 77 percent have a cell phone. But really, you don’t have to mine through studies and snooze over bar graphs to see what’s happening. Just look around. Pop into grocery stores. Watch people at airport terminals. Hang out with your elders. You’ll likely see Aunt Pearl whipping a phone out of her handbag, or Great Uncle Walt tapping away an email on a tablet. I don’t think we’re at the point where most grandparents are Snapchat-ing or Yik Yak-ing between Instagram uploads. But if you pay attention, there has been a noticeable shift over the last five years. The Greatest Generation is generating cyber traffic. Of course, there are many people like my octogenarian uncle. A self-proclaimed Luddite, he follows pop culture on “newsprint 1.0”—also known as the paper “app” that gets downloaded on his driveway every morning. But he knows what a selfie is. He frequently asks me questions like, “What does YOLO mean?” My uncle is not at the point where he’d acquire a computer, but you never know. There’s a strong curiosity brewing. My parents are another story. They’ve owned a computer for over a decade. They love this connection to their children, grandchildren and the world, and I know they could not live without it. They can email and Google with the best of us. Ordering their Fred Astaire benders from Netflix sometimes leads to missteps,

Johnson County Lifestyle | December 2014

but they get by. Both are signed up for Facebook, even though they have not graduated beyond the generic silhouette profile pics. A year ago, I was floored when my mom begged me to show her Twitter. She loves the concept of chiming thoughts to the universe, and seeing what other people are pondering or joking about. Like Facebook, my mom is signed up on Twitter, but has not yet become an active user. She’s still in the egg phase. Nonetheless: Wow. My parents live far away, so every time we visit each other I’m always giving them some kind of tech tutorial. I have empathy and eternal patience, probably because there’s a generation on the other side I depend on for my own “Genius Bar” consultations—my sons. The very morning our youngest left for college, he took it upon himself to write out a manual for me and my husband on how to navigate the 5,000 remotes for our flat screen TV. And I’m not kidding: As I was writing this very column, he texted me a video link. A few minutes later, a follow-up message suggested I turn my phone horizontally for better quality. I was, indeed, holding it vertically. Marketing-wise, I think the tech industry is lagging when it comes to helping each generation adapt to their products. Cell phone screens are not always compatible with seniors’ vision. Middle-aged vision, for that matter. There are also finger flexibility issues, or simply a lack of background in how patterns and things work on screens—like knowing the reason for “password dots.” All of these stumbling blocks can be addressed. With a little patience, every generation can, and should, connect. Because YOLO.

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