Johnson County February 2016

Johnson County FEBRUARY 2016

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JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

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Who’s Hungry?

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On Life Support

On a Roll

The day Brookelynn was born, she stopped breathing for six minutes. She was rushed to the NICU at Children’s Mercy–the highest level NICU between Denver and St. Louis. Three years later, she’s a lively little girl who loves gymnastics. Jumping. Tumbling. Twirling. Her possibilities are endless.

See how we’re transforming lives every day at childrensmercy.org/stories.

Brookelynn | Age 3 | Shawnee

The non-profit hospital for Kansas City’s kids.

Lifestyle Letter

A Taste of Johnson County.

FEBRUARY 2016 editor

Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor

I

s it my imagination, or do we have an exceptional number of amazing restaurants within the boundaries of Johnson County?

I offer as proof the fact that two Harrison family favorites recently opened (or are getting ready to open any day now….) at Camelot Court. Since this 119th Street shopping center is one I frequent often, and my younger son happens to work part-time at a casual café at this foodfilled corner, maybe this is why my mind is focused on the construction of new eateries and “Coming Soon” signs.

In fact, I think I could dine out every night for a month at the four-corner retail kingdom that is 119th & Roe and never have to double up on restaurants. (Red Door Grill, Corner Bakery Cafe, The Mixx, Bravo, Let's Crepe, Pie Five, Mr. Gyros, Joe's KC, La Bodega, North, Sullivan's, Chipotle, Panera, Bristol... An incomplete list, for sure, but do you see what I mean?) While the metro area celebrated Restaurant Week last month, maybe it is time to consider a Johnson County Restaurant Week. Just a thought.

When our family travels to Camp Scottsdale, the affectionate name we’ve given my sister and brother-in-law’s home in Arizona, no visit is compete without a couple of large pepperoni pizzas from Grimaldi’s. And NOW WE HAVE OUR OWN! (Forgive the shouty caps, but this is really terrific news for this pizza-loving, Chicago-born editor.) I’ll be visiting Prairie Fire on a more regular basis thanks to this addition and I encourage you all to stop right now and join their online birthday club. A free large birthday pizza is a very generous gift. Thank you in advance, Mr. and Mrs. Grimaldi.

I’ll be enjoying my thin-crusted birthday treat during the first week of June. Only 120 days away, but who’s counting?

Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com sales director

Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales

Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com Carolyn Braverman | CBraverman@LifestylePubs.com Randy Metzler | Randy.Metzler@LifestylePubs.com Mike Reilly | Mike.Reilly@LifestylePubs.com Frank Flores | Frank.Flores@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Lisa Allen, Lisa Gartland, Vicky Mayer, Rebecca Murphy, Denise Snodell contributing photographers

Jana Ayers, Alexs Cook, Lisa Gartland

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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Happy dining, friends, and I’ll see you around town!

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ON THE COVER Our February food issue brings you information about a fabulous new pizza restaurant at Prairie Fire (page 20), a funnel cake

JOIN US

food truck with an inspiring story (page 28), and a grill with a great view of Park Place (page 26).

PHOTOGRAPHY ALEXIS COOK AND JANA AYERS 6

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

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.

Every Detail, Every Time SPACE PLAN | NEW BUILDS | REMODELS | REDESIGNS | FURNISHINGS and more!

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February 2016

20 22 Departments 20 Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria

In the world of pizza, Grimaldi’s is an institution.

22 Seeing Spain our Way

Don’t be to be your own travel agent and tour guide.

32 Not Even One is OK

10

Good Times

16

Around Town

20

Now Open

26

Hot Spot

28

Locally Owned

32

Inspired By

35

Sold Properties

38

Lifestyle Calendar

42

Parting Thoughts

Local students create inspirational awareness campaign.

28 32

xx

Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana | Ohio | Oklahoma | Texas | Utah

JOHNSON COUNT Y’S BEST KEPT SECRET

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Good Times

New Year's Eve at Tom's Town

Tom's Town Distilling Company celebrated their grand opening with a New Year's Eve party for friends, family and their Crossroads District neighbors. Tom's Town is the first legal, downtown distillery in KC since Prohibition, its name inspired by one of the era's notables, Tom Pendergast.

Mark & Jean Sudermann

Aaron & Amanda Buchanan

Ann Behner, Julie McCann, David Epstein & Blythe Robertson

Nicole Spachman, MaLiz Denk, Jen O'Leary, Tami Fox & Mary Emanuel

Judy, Scott, Carla & Jack Revare

Kirsten McGannon, Wade Tajerian, David Epstein, Steve Revare, Emily McDonald, Rob Vossmeyer & Tim Tuohey Tom's Town cofounders David Epstein & Steve Revare

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Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

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Good Times

The Healing Chair

The Healing Chair’s mission is to loan reclining lift chairs to breast cancer patients who have recently undergone mastectomy surgeries. They recently partnered with Tequila Harry’s to raise awareness and funds for their cause.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

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Good Times

Stand Up for Synergy

Comic powerhouse Billy Gardell of "Mike and Molly" fame gave patrons plenty to laugh about as they raised funds to support Synergy Services. His performance at The Improv was complemented by dinner and a live auction emceed

by Elizabeth Alex and the Nigro Brothers. PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES SCHRAEDER

Jim & Pattie Corwin, Billy Gardell, Tracy & Web Bixby Josh Strodtman, Eddie Kennison & Michael Lintecum Dawn Parsons, Robin Winner & Darcy Stewart

Heather & Cory Miller, Ryan & Amy Powell

Jesse Vick, Ryan Anderson, Jessica & Ryan Lilja

Greg & Cheryl Givens, Michelle & Ryan Brown

Kaylin Hobbs, Brook Hixson & Jenny Miles

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Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

February 2016 | Johnson County Lifestyle

15

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

FOOD EQUALITY INITIATIVE LEADS THE WAY Food Equality Initiative, Inc. (FEI) is the nation’s leading non-profit focused solely on increasing access to gluten free and allergy friendly food for those who are food insecure, but have a medical need for these foods.

The organization is best known for opening the ReNewed Health food pantry. It is the only pantry in the nation that offers allergy friendly and gluten free food to those who struggle with food insecurity and celiac disease or food allergies. Without consistent access to these foods, many people and families struggle with malnutrition on top of their diagnoses.

Advocating for inclusion of allergy friendly and gluten free foods in the WIC (Women, Infant and Children) program, the non-profit is working with the National WIC Association to realize how that can be accomplished. The WIC program was designed to help those who are most nutritionally vulnerable, low income children who are under age 5. However, a child with multiple food allergies, misses out on many of the foods offered in the program, creating a huge nutritional gap for that child.

POWER THE TOWER

A medical advisory board consisting of doctors and other medical

An effort is underway to put lighting back on the KCTV tower

practitioners from Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas University Med-

located at 31st Street and Grand and to reestablish it as a notable

ical Center and more, guide the organization in their efforts.

Kansas City landmark. Since it debuted as the tallest free stand-

AREA HOMEBUILDERS POST BEST NOVEMBER IN EIGHT YEARS Kansas City area homebuilders had their best November since 2007, with 15 percent more single-family permits issued than in November of 2014. The Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City reports 360 single family permits were issued last month, compared with 312 permits issued in November 2014.

ing tower in the world in 1955, it has served as the centerpiece of our skyline, yet many feel it is under-appreciated as an icon.

The new lighting would include 5400 LED bulbs. A group is seeking to raise $100,000 to complete the project and fund raising efforts are underway. Read more at TheTowerkKC.com.​

YOUR CHILD'S PARTY NEEDS ROSE Parties by Rose is now available for birthday parties and other

“The November housing permit report for Kansas City offers fresh

special events in the Kansas City area. Rose brings lovable char-

evidence that the housing recovery is in full swing. The HBA expects

acters from familiar stories straight to your event, with elaborate

homebuilders in the region will continue to build inventory through-

shows, music and magical interactions with children. From Elsa and

out the winter months, weather permitting,” says Sara Corless, HBA

Anna in Frozen, to your favorite superheroes, you will not be disap-

executive vice president.

pointed. Her most famous character is Laguna, the mermaid who

NAHB Chairman Tom Woods says, “The November gains in both single- and multi-family starts show that the overall market contin-

will entertain and swim with guests, tell stories, play games and act as magical ambiance. Kids love it!

ues to move forward. As builders anticipate more consumer demand

Rose has a lifelong background in theatre, from acting and sing-

for housing, they should continue to add inventory.” Johnson County

ing to dancing, stage design, costume design, makeup and hair and

led the region with 123 single-family housing permits issued in No-

more. She manages all elements of the business and can be contact-

vember, followed by Jackson County with 72 permits issued and Clay

ed at PartiesByRose.com or 913.963.4241.

County with 51 permits.

16

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

HEART OF AMERICA COUNCIL'S PATRON LUNCHEON Friends and supporters of the Heart of America Scout Council are invited to the annual Patron Luncheon on Thursday, March 3, at the Kansas City Marriott Muehlebach Hotel. The Patron Luncheon is a fundraising initiative and integral part of the Heart of America Council’s "Investment in Character" campaign that raises the much needed funds to support quality youth developmental programs that teach leadership skills and values. This investment in Scouting ensures that more than 33,000 youth in the 19 counties served by the Heart of America Council will receive a life-changing program.

WRINKLE

FREE F R I D AY Every Friday in February

The featured speaker for the event is U.S. Army master pilot and best-selling author Michael Durant, whose story as a captured POW was the inspiration for the book and the film Black Hawk Down. Stephen Hooley, CEO, DST Systems, serves as the Patron Luncheon Chairman. To learn more about the luncheon contact Kristan Townley at kristan.townley@ scouting.org.

NEW BUS SERVICE CONNECTS OP TO KU MED CENTER A new expansion of bus service will

Botox $10. 50 /unit Reg. $12 .75/unit Dysport $5.00 /unit Reg. $ 5.75/unit

give Johnson County residents more options when commuting to the University of Kansas Medical Center complex.

The new weekday service began in early January and provides more trips from the Mission Transit Center on Johnson Drive to the medical center. Route service will continue north into downtown Kansas City, Kans., from the medical center.

Morning northbound service from Mission to KUMC will operate hourly from 5:39 a.m. - 8:38 a.m. Afternoon southbound service from the medical center to Mission will operate hourly from 2:45 p.m.

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CONTINUED >

February 2016 | Johnson County Lifestyle

17

Around Town

(CON TI N U ED)

in the morning to the medical center from Mission and two, one-way southbound trips in the afternoon.

BLUE VALLEY TEACHERS RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE

The area serves an estimated 10,000

In their first year of teaching, Stefanie

employees, staff and students every day,

Hagemann and Andrew Hulse impressed

many who live in parts of northeast John-

students, parents and colleagues, and awed

son County. Parking can be difficult since

a few Kansas state officials as well. These

there are only 5,000 parking slots in the

two teachers were honored for their first-

medical center area.

year teaching talents and their commitment

For more information, visit RideKC.org.

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES NOW OPEN IN MISSION Nothing Bundt Cakes in Overland Park has recently expanded to an additional location. Their second store is now open at 6850 Johnson Drive. They opened their doors a

to academic success for every student. The Kansas Department of Education named Hagemann, fifth grade teacher at Prairie Star Elementary, and Hulse, science teacher at Blue Valley High, as recipients of the 2016 Kansas Horizon Award.

A NOTE FROM OUR EDITOR

few months ago and love being a part of

We mistakenly listed the wrong phone

the fantastic growth in Mission. To reach

number for Dr. Michael Barnthouse in our

the Bundt cakes team at the Mission loca-

January article. Dr. Barnthouse's office, of-

tion, email them at Mission@NothingBundt-

fering SottoPelle® Therapy can be reached

Cakes.com or give them a call for your next

at 816.941.0700. Our apologies for any confu-

party at 913.384.2707.

sion this may have caused.

18

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

Award-winning Teacher Andrew Hulse

Award-winning Teacher Stefanie Hagemann

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Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria IN THE WORLD OF PIZZA, GRIMALDI’S IS AN INSTITUTION ARTICLE REBECCA MURPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

I

f there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that there’s the pizza you tolerate and there’s pizza that you’re willing to wait 45 minutes or more just to sit down so you can order.

As I approach my 50th year, I’m beginning to think that life may be too short to eat the kind of pizza that shows up at our door in less than 30 minutes or that has a total of six slices of mushrooms when you’ve paid for them to be an added topping.

If the pizza crust isn’t thin and crispy, or made with such a flavor filled deep dish crust that I don’t want to leave a crumb on my plate, then maybe I should just say no thank you.

This will never be the problem at the brand new Grimaldi’s at Prairef ire in Overland Park. If you’ve vacationed or previously

20

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

“

As I approach my 50th year, I’m beginning to think that life may be too short to eat the kind of pizza that shows up at our door in less than 30 minutes or that has a total of six slices of mushrooms when you’ve paid for them to be an added topping.

”

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GRIMALDI’S COAL BRICK-OVEN PIZZERIA

5601 W 135th St. 913.851.5062 GrimaldisPizzeria.com

lived in Denver, Phoenix, Dallas or Houston, you are probably familiar with this New York institution of pizza. Maybe you too have been hoping they’d eventually make their way to our corner of the Midwest.

Well glory day, they have! They opened just in time for the New Year and we’re so glad they did.

They offer a personal pizza size in case you want to keep your pizza to yourself, or small and large pizzas for those who are willing to share with the rest of the table. More than two dozen toppings can be added to the make-your-own version, or you an order one of several specialty pizzas where the combination of toppings is chef approved and have clearly stood the test of time. Did I mention that they’ve been in the pizza business for more than 100 years?

If your mother raised you believing that pizza and a salad made for a well-balanced dinner, then you are in luck. Salads with meat add ons are more varied than the traditional Caesar and house salads offered at most pizzerias. And salads are offered in two sizes so you can make it your meal or plan to have it as an accompaniment to your pizza, which is clearly the wiser choice.

Carry out is always an option, so add their phone number to your contacts list and don’t settle for pizza mediocrity again.

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21

Picasso in Barcelona

Cathetral in Cobdoba

Bell tower in Seville

Seeing

Our Way

Impressive food, art and architecture at every stop on this two-week adventure!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY VICKY MAYER

W

hen my husband and I traveled to Italy several years ago for two weeks, we did it the easy way and booked a tour with a luxury operator. It was a great choice and we had a terrific tour guide. To see Spain, though, we decided to go a different route. We did it ourselves—from planning the itinerary to booking the air, hotels and tours. It was a big job, but it was well worth it!

Planning when to go was easy—May is ideal! Crowds are moderate, hotel availability and prices are good, and when booked months in advance, there are even some great air fares. Best of all, Spain’s May temperatures average between the high 60s to low 70s.

Deciding where to travel was tougher. Madrid and Barcelona are must-see cities. The more I researched, the more cities were added to my list—Toledo, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Valencia, Alicante, Bilbao and San Sebastián. Even in CONTINUED > 19 days, that’s a lot of territory to cover.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

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February 2016 | Johnson County Lifestyle

23

SEEING SPAIN OUR WAY (CON TI N U ED)

Bull fight arena in Valencia

Alicante

After visiting with friends who had traveled to or lived in Spain, I consulted my team of experts at Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Trip Advisor. The itinerary was set. The next hurdle was figuring out how to get to all these places without renting a car.

Thanks to Renfe, the great train system in Spain, a cheap flight on Vueling, and my husband’s top-notch navigation skills, our trip was routed.

Our journey began in Madrid, with a stay at the Petit Palace at Plaza Mayor (en.

PetitPalaceMayorPlaza.com). The hotel is located right by the train station, near many major sites, and across from the Mercado Sao Miquel, a terrific place to sample tapas (small bites) ranging from cheese and olives to pastries, and some great sangria!

To get a feel for the city, we went on a 3-hour bike tour (BravoBike.com). The rest of the afternoon, we spent at Madrid’s most famous museums—the Prado (featuring the works of El Greco and the great masters) and the Reina Sofia, a museum of modern and contemporary art, where visitors can view Picasso’s famed “Guernica.”

From Madrid, we took our first train ride for a day trip in Toledo. Toledo is known Caprese salad as the city of three cultures—Christians, Arabs and Jews. In Toledo, there are an array of artistic and cultural artifacts—from the paintings of El Greco to beautifully preserved churches, mosques and synagogues. Be prepared for the hills in Toledo!

Next, we traveled by train to Seville, Kansas City’s sister city and the birthplace of Flamenco dancing. Among other things, Seville is known for its breathtaking cathedral; the Giralda bell tower (which we climbed all 34 floors to reach the top); and its alcazar (great palace). In many cities, we took advantage of the wonderful “free” tours, given in English, by well-schooled guides. Tours may be free, but living in Spain isn’t. It’s customary to tip guides enthusiastically if they’ve given you a great tour. Seville is one of the few cities where we scheduled tours with a fee.

But, the tours (SevillaWalkingTours.com) of the cathedral and the alcazar given by Concepción Delgado were well worth seven euros per person.

Following Seville, we headed to Cordoba, known for its Moorish architecture and Jewish Quarter, where Maimonides, a 12th century scholar, philosopher and physician, was born. Following our walking tour, we took the recommendation of our tour guide and dined on rabo de toro (bull’s tail). It tastes a lot like short ribs.

Sagrada Familia From Cordoba to Granada, it’s a 3.75-hour train ride. A super-speedy and more exin Barcelona pensive train can get you there in a little over 2 hours, but the times are limited. Granada is best known for its Alhambra, a grandiose palace with luscious, ornate gardens. Word to the wise—book your tickets well in advance (Ticketmaster.es). If you don’t, there’ll be long lines to get in or no ticket availability on the day you want to tour.

Unfortunately, there’s no rail service from Granada to Alicante. The only public transportation is by bus (Alsa.es). Alicante is a beautiful waterfront city situated on the Costa Blanca (White Coast). Along the waterfront, you’ll see the Explana de España, a promenade covered with more than six million tiles in a tri-color wave pattern. Here, we stayed in one of my favorite hotels, the lovely Hospes Amerigo (Hospes.com). While in Alicante, be sure to venture up to the Castle of Santa Barbara, perched high upon a hill, for a CONTINUED > wonderful view of the city.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

The Guggenheim in Bilboa

Valencia seemed like a great halfway stop between Alicante and Barcelona. Valencia is known as “The Orchard of Spain,” because so many oranges are grown there. It’s also where paella, a saffron rice dish, usually mixed with rabbit, chicken or seafood, was created. Since I adore tours, I contacted Lladró, in advance, to book a tour of its factory. There, the family-run company has produced elaborate porcelain figurines since the 1950s. For dinner, we of course had paella and it was delicious!

It’s easy to fall in love with Barcelona. For a super cool place to stay, try The Mirror Barcelona (TheMirrorBarcelona.com/en).

It’s sleek, super modern, all white and looks like it was designed by George Jetson. More notably, Barcelona showcases the work of Antoni Gaudí, whose designs melded architecture and building technology together in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Sagrada Familia, his most noted design, is a magnificent cathedral. After 130 plus years, the cathedral is still unfinished! Don’t miss a trip to Gaudí’s Parque Güell, which he originally designed as luxury residences. Barcelona is also a great place to explore the work of Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró; museums there showcase each artist’s works.

Our last stops were Bilboa and San Sebastián. It’s a long way by train from Barcelona to Bilboa in Northern Spain. But, I just had to see Frank Gehry’s masterpiece—The Guggenheim. For this leg of the trip, we flew on Vueling, a low cost airline, from Barcelona to Bilboa.

The Guggenheim is a magnificent museum. In fact, I was much more awed of this sweeping, silver structure than by the exhibits inside.

From Bilboa, we traveled to our last locale—San Sebastián, overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. San Sebastián is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s also where you can sample pintxos, small Basque delicacies, ranging from prawns, cheeses and olives, to lots and lots of jamón (ham).

Clearly, Spain won’t disappoint as a vacation destination!

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Hot Spot

I

’m beginning to envy the folks who live close enough to Park Place that they could walk (if they chose to do so) to this growing-butstill-quaint shopping district located just north of 119th Street at Nall Avenue. I think it would be a dream to be able to walk over for a quick bite to eat or a little dessert and coffee after a home-cooked meal. A part of that envy is fueled by the new(ish) tenant in what I affectionately call ‘the prime corner of Park Place’s main street.’ If you haven’t visited, you’ll want to make plans to do so soon.

The Grille at Park Place is a two-story restaurant with a sizable bar and one of the most spacious patio spaces in town. Do you need to throw a party for a significant other who is having a milestone birthday this year? Their upstairs rooftop space just might be the perfect party spot!

They offer contemporary American cuisine that showcases the talents of Kevin Clayton, the executive chef. Clayton has returned to Kansas City after more than a decade in the southeast.

CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN CUISINE IN THE HEART OF JOHNSON COUNTY ARTICLE AMY PAPACEK PHOTOGRAPHY JANA AYERS AND PROVIDED

26

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

Local owner businessman Mitch Kerns chose wisely in Clayton for this culinary collaboration.

When we dined on New Year’s Eve, there was a festive spirit in the air. Their sangria de rojo ($5) is a beautiful cocktail presentation and has inspired me to fill a tall glass pitcher with sliced fruit, wine and brandy so I can sip these flavors more often.

Deviled eggs with Applewood smoked bacon ($8) were “among the best I’ve had,” says my dining companion of more than 25 years. And he’s something of a deviled egg fan(atic), so he’s ordered more than the average consumer over the years. He also likes his traditional wedge salads and thought very highly of theirs. ($11)

Save room for dessert. Or make dessert and specialty coffee drinks the reason you stop in. The Chocolate Wow ($12) is rich and enough to share. The brownie and ice cream are tucked inside a sphere of perfect milk chocolate. The Wow factor comes when your server pours hot caramel sauce over the top and the sphere melts into a moving, suddenly melty sculpture of dessert deliciousness.

They offer complementary valet service on Friday and Saturday evenings and their five dollar cocktail hour (4-6 p.m.) is a big draw, especially during patio season.

The service was professional and helpful. Nothing but the best at Park Place!

The Grille at Park Place 5270 W 116th Place

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Locally Owned

T

his is my first “I knew him when” story.

I met Michael Bradbury, owner of Kansas City’s The Funnelcake Truck, when I went outside to check my mail and saw him alternately working on his truck and playing with his kids. Bradbury still juggles both of those hats—entrepreneur and devoted dad—though we’re no longer neighbors.

He started the food truck about five years ago, long before Kansas City was hip to moveable feasts, as a way to earn extra money as a stay-at-home dad to Linkyn, Sebastian and Stephanie. The kids, each only a year apart and all still single-digits, kept him busy. Nevertheless, he had dreams of building a business that would not only produce an income for his family, but also make an impact in the community.

“I love being part of what’s going on in the community,” says Bradbury. “I don’t want to be in a trendy spot, catering to people who come and go. I want to be in Leawood and Overland Park and Lee’s Summit on Saturday afternoons. That’s where families are.”

CONTINUED >

Fa m i l y, Father

Family, Fatherhood, & Funnelcakes

WHAT DRIVES FOOD TRUCK PIONEER MICHAEL BRADBURY ARTICLE LISA ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY ALEXIS COOK

28

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

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Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

Bradbury gravitates to places one might not typically think of for funnel cakes and other deep fried treats. Instead of festivals and fairs, he books his calendar with church and school events, private parties and family celebrations. It’s only fitting that his focus is on family; his love of cooking started with his grandmother.

“I went to her house every Sunday to make donuts,” he says.

“We’re Polish and she taught me how to make paczki. Originally I wanted to start a Polish donut truck.”

Bradbury has expanded his menu to include kettle corn, cotton candy and a bevy of deep-fried treats. His favorite is deep-fried Snickers, but others sing the praises of his deep-fried Twinkies and deep-fried Oreos. The secret, he says, is the funnel cake batter.

“It’s the best thing in Kansas City,” he says. He would know; not only did Bradbury start a food truck business of his own, but he also created the Kansas City Food Truck Association in an effort to educate local officials on the intricacies of the food truck industry.

He’s teamed up with various suburban recreation departments to be present at local events—think concerts in the park, downtown festivals and Olathe’s annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting—and schedules private and charity events for local businesses.

But he does more than cook: he’s established himself as a social media trailblazer, using Facebook, Twitter, and Yelp to drive business and increase name awareness. He credits JazzyB's Owner Brandon Simpson, fellow full-time dad of three and driving force behind the Kansas City Food Truck Association, with connecting him to MidContinental Library, where Bradbury taught a food truck class to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Oh—and along with cake decorating artist Mike Elder of Black Sheep Custom Cakes, he won Food Network’s “The Sound of Music” competition of Cake Wars last August.

“I learned so much about the magic of Hollywood by being on Cake Wars,” says Bradbury. “Los Angeles is the food truck capital of the world, so being there was amazing.”

Still, clinching that title didn’t change his business as much as one might think.

“I can serve 400 kids in three hours and no one recognizes me,” he says. “All the work of running a business—the product development, the push to get our information to new people, being present at events—that’s still the same now as it was pre-Cake Wars.”

So is the juggling act of being a dad first. Like many other parents who juggle business and family, Bradbury says working weekends and during the day, when his kids are in school and evenings when his wife is home with the kids, suits his schedule perfectly.

“My schedule revolves around the kids. I’ve built the business slowly on purpose, because family comes first. My wife Suzanne works full time at an office in Overland Park, so I take kids to school and pick them up. It works for us.”

To hire Bradbury for an event and order treats, visit TheFunnelCakeTruck.com or call 913.636.9647.

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Inspired By

NOT EVENisONE Okay LOCAL STUDENTS CREATE INSPIRATIONAL AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY LISA GARTLAND

“It’s simple, bold and powerful. It not only encourages kids who are struggling to reach out for help, but it also empowers their friends to directly ask a tough question:

‘Are you going to kill yourself?’”

L

ast spring, Sherrie Balmer thought she had a great idea. Marillac, a psychiatric residential treatment facility in Overland Park, received a $2,000 grant from The Kansas Suicide Prevention Center to develop a program to reach young people. The concept was to promote awareness about suicide, to provide support for people struggling with suicidal thoughts and tools for those whose friends have thoughts of suicide.

32

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

As the director of communications and marketing for Marillac, Balmer planned to use the grant money to create a video, and she wanted to confirm that her perception for the message was relevant to teenagers.

She approached the already established Suicide Awareness group at Saint Thomas Aquinas in Overland Park, and spoke to students. While Balmer’s vision was the start, the students soon schooled her on relating

the message to teens. Balmer admits with a laugh, “They had a much better idea!”

Throughout late spring and summer, the committed students worked together, researching, writing and producing a video that far exceeded her initial idea.

“It was much, much more than I ever dreamed,” Balmer says. "It's simple, bold and powerful. It not only encourages kids CONTINUED >

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33

Inspired By

(CON TI N U ED)

who are struggling to reach out for help, but it also empowers their friends to directly ask a tough question: 'Are you going to kill yourself ?'"

There is an argument that mentioning suicide to someone who is having mental health difficulties may plant the idea. Evidence is clear that this is not the case, and young people confide in their peers before they would ever consider turning to an adult. Part of the lesson is to educate teens on warning signs and to arm them with strategies to discern a next course of action. They learn

that any mention of self harm should be taken seriously, even if it's followed with, “Just kidding.” If kids are in tune to potential red flags, they are more likely to take action. They may talk to a school counselor, alert a parent of the person in distress or their own parents for guidance, or contact a mental health facility.

In Kansas, anyone over 14 can contact a mental health facility directly and self-admit. Marillac’s 32-bed residential facility treats ages 12-18. Lengths of stay vary and are unique to each patient, usually 30-45 days. There is also a 52-bed hospital on

Stigma surrounding mental illness is slowly eroding.

The #NotEvenOne campaign hopes to overcome that remaining stigma, because even one life lost is one too many.

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE

Stamp Out Stigma Abbie Gartland, Natalie Hickman, Elizabeth Roth

| 1.800.273.TALK (8255) | Marillac.org/Not-Even-One

Abbie Gartland and Elizabeth Roth were surprised to receive a check from Marillac to further the suicide awareness program at their school.

the campus for patients aged 4-18. Upon arrival, patients are admitted and risk level is assessed. Patients are treated by nurses, therapists, psychologists, and family visits and treatment plans are quickly established.

Marillac has formed partnerships throughout Kansas City.

Students from Olathe South developed an “I Choose to Live” pledge campaign prior to their partnership with Marillac. Shawnee Mission South is currently working on a project to support the #NotEvenOne initiative. Balmer reached out to Mix 93.3, who along with several other radio stations ran ads last summer.

Fox 4 News has supported the program as well, interviewing the students who created the video and contributing their own station video on the subject. In August, the Kansas City T-Bones debuted the students’ video on the stadium’s jumbo screen.

34

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

#NotEvenOne on the jumbo screen at the T-Bones Game in August

Balmer says this campaign is designed to grow and to be far reaching. New facets emerge constantly. In partnership with the Johnson County Suicide Prevention Coalition, using the same script that the high school students wrote, a video targeting the adult population was created. Balmer wants to reach as many people and schools as possible, starting in our own backyard. The hope is to see it grow and spread into other communities.

Since the tech savvy students created the video themselves, cost was minimal. Some grant funds were used for Suicide Awareness materials, but $1,000 of the grant was re-gifted from Marillac to Aquinas for future suicide awareness program activities.

Stigma surrounding mental illness is slowly eroding. The #NotEvenOne campaign hopes to overcome that remaining stigma, because even one life lost is one too many.

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Johnson County Properties NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

SOLD

DOM*

% LIST/SOLD

BEDS

BATH

HAZELWOOD

$1,490,950

$1,350,000

177

90%

4

3.3

MISSION HILLS

$1,250,000

$1,212,500

239

97%

5

4.3

THE WOODS ESTATES

$1,195,000

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117

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5

4.1

LIONSGATE-THE LINKS

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13

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6

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DEERROOK

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37

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5

5.1

HALLBROOK

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$750,000

119

95%

5

4.1

HALLBROOK

$799,000

$741,000

0

92%

4

3.1

SWITZER LAKE ESTATES

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$735,000

65

98%

4

4.1

THE HILLS OF IRONHORSE

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$725,000

48

94%

7

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MISSION HILLS

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$710,000

4

103%

3

3.2

SWITZER LAKE ESTATES

$849,000

$690,000

113

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5

7.1

Information obtained from Comparative Market Analysis for 12-01-15 through 12-30-15. *DOM=Days on Market.

February 2016 | Johnson County Lifestyle

35

Inspired By

BVNW Teacher Receives

Milken Educator Award

The moment he registering that 's just h e wo n .

BILL SMITHYMAN SURPRISED AT SCHOOLWIDE ASSEMBLY ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

W

hen Kansas English language arts teacher Bill Smithyman walked into a recent schoolwide assembly at Blue Valley Northwest High School, he had no idea he would be walking out an hour later a Milken Educator Award recipient and $25,000 richer.

In front of his principal, colleagues, students, staff and distinguished community members, Smithyman was given the surprise of his life when he received the prestigious Milken Educator Award. Milken Family Foundation Chairman and Co-Founder Lowell Milken presented Smithyman with the distinct navy blue envelope.

36

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

Milken says Smithyman, who attended Blue Valley Northwest High School himself, is considered one of the school’s most revered teachers.

“Bill sets high expectations for his students and it shows,” says Milken. “His students consistently score higher than district, state and national averages. His students also realize he’s someone who truly cares about their lives, their education and their future success. He will be an integral addition to the Milken Educator family.”

For Smithyman’s students, getting a “B” is a badge of honor. But the students love him. They line up outside his door after class

where there is a constant stream of students coming through to ask for his advice, help on assignments, proofread a college entrance letter or assist them with an essay.

Former students return to thank him for all he has done for them. They will routinely comment about how well-prepared they are for the next level of education, how comfortable they feel taking high-stakes tests, and remark that he is the reason they have been able to feel competent, competitive and confident in their college English classes and beyond.

According to his colleagues, Smithyman has a “rep” – he is known to be giving with his time, he is witty, smart and approach-

able. He is a lifelong learner and continually strives to become a better teacher. He uses his own unique blend of genuine interest, empathy, sarcasm and humor and is known to be “a genius” when it comes to human interaction and behavior. It is the life lessons that students come to receive because they know that Smithyman understands their lives, problems, and will give great advice.

As an ELA teacher, Bill believes students should write on a daily basis. He has an ongoing classroom blogging project in which a daily prompt is posted and students must respond to the prompt while not repeating what a previous post has said. Students claim that the task is quite difficult, but the benefit is learning how to write analytically.

Smithyman was given the surprise of his life when he received the prestigious Milken Educator Award.

Milken Family Foundation Chairman and Co-Founder Lowell Milken presented Smithyman with the distinct navy blue envelope.

Smithyman’s students produce strong results and consistently score higher than district, state and national averages. One indicator of this success is his sophomore students’ performance on the PSAT during the beginning of their junior year. The average composite score of his 10th grade ELA students is over 181, compared to the state (153), Midwest region (150) and nation (142). Other evidence is represented in last year’s AP Language scores, the highest in the school’s 22year history—also beating national averages.

He has taught at Blue Valley Northwest High School for 15 years. He graduated from Drake University with a Bachelor of Science in education in 2000 and from Baker University with a Master of Science in education in 2004.

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37

Lifestyle Calendar

February FEBRUARY 6

FEBRUARY 21

THE ADVENTURES OF DON QUIXOTE

2015 EAGLE CLASS RECEPTION

ST. PAUL'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

KANSAS CITY

Bach Aria Soloists is gearing up to present The Adventures of

Join Eagle Scouts from across the Heart of America Council and

Don Quixote at St. Paul's Episcopal Church with actor Mark Rob-

help build a KC Scouting tradition. All Scouts who earned Scout-

bins. Scenes from Cervante's "greatest novel in the history of

ing’s highest rank in 2015 are invited with their families to attend

mankind" are brought to life by colorful songs from Flores de

this reception at the Municipal Music Hall. Kansas City business-

Musica, Spanish dances and Telemann's Suite inspired by Don

man Don Hall will address the 2015 class of Eagles. Registration is

Quixote. BachAriaSoloists.com

free at HOAC-BSA.org.

FEBRUARY 12 - 14 AMY GRANT WITH THE KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY KAUFFMAN CENTER Amy

Grant has

always

found a way to share her life through her music, and in the process has become not only the best-selling inspirational artist of all time but also one of the most celebrated artists in pop music. Her songs continue to be part of the fabric of life for long-time listeners and brand new fans.

FEBRUARY 13

FEBRUARY 23

LEAWOOD GARDEN CLUB

JAMMIN' AT THE

LEAWOOD

GEM CONCERT

The Leawood Garden Club will meet at its new meeting place,

SERIES

Cure of Ars Catholic Church. Tim Cruise, Research Scientist, Land

KANSAS CITY Saxophone

Institute, will present “Permaculture in the Prairies, An Update on super-

Perennial Grain Development” at noon. The meeting is open to ev-

star Kim Waters, cel-

eryone and guests are welcome. A potluck luncheon will be provid-

ebrating his 25th year

ed. 913.642.3317 or LeawoodGardenClub.org

as a recording artist, will be performing his

FEBRUARY 25 - MARCH 18

smooth jazz with a

TOMÁS AND THE LIBRARY LADY

special Valentine's Day

THE COTERIE THEATRE

concert. Silver Soul

The true-life story of a young boy who moves from Texas to Iowa

is Kim’s recent solo

for the fruit picking season and falls in love with reading. Tomás

album and follows 16

finds the courage to enter the town library. Once inside, he discov-

Top 10 and 14 #1 sin-

ers a surprising world filled with dinosaurs, tigers, and a great new

gles and 4 #1 CDs. More at: AmericanJazzMuseum.org Tickets

friend. 816.474.6552 or TheCoterie.org

available at the AJM Box Office, 816.474.6262 or through Ticketmaster.

38

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

FEBRUARY 26 - MARCH 13 LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL THE BARN PLAYERS, MISSION An action packed show with memorable music, peppy dance numbers and so much fun it should be illegal! Harvard’s beloved blonde, Elle Woods, goes to Harvard to earn a law degree to prove she can to an ex-boy friend in this tons of fun musical, based on the beloved movie. Tickets $18 at TheBarnPlayers.org or at the theater box office.

FEBRUARY 27 KANSAS CITY GARDEN SYMPOSIUM NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART This every-other-year event features nationally known speakers and is presented by Gardeners Connect, the largest garden club in the Metro. An optional workshop and dinner on Feb. 26 precedes the symposium. Speakers include plant explorer Dan Hinkley, garden artist Lucy Hardiman, Kansas native Troy Marden and garden designer Jan Johnsen. GardenSymposium.org

FEBRUARY 27 KC BREW FEST UNION STATION Brings together dozens of craft and international breweries, as well as KC's best local breweries. Features 40 breweries, 100 beers, music and food. General admission $35; VIP admission $45. Admission includes beer. Food is sold separately. All attendees must be 21 and over.

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Connect with us today and read feature articles, view special offers, enter contests and more!

FEBRUARY 27 MID WINTER BLUES FUNDRAISER

facebook.com/JohnsonCountyLifestyl e

OLATHE Come and go as your schedule allows at this 11th annual free fundraising event for foster kids in Kansas. There will be a silent auction, free drinks, dinner and dancing, face painting, cotton candy and more. All donations go to Kvc.org

February 2016 | Johnson County Lifestyle

39

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY KC Metalworx (913) 908-1687 kcmetalworx.com

Laughter Loves Photography (816) 726-8036 laughterlovesphotography.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Parties by Rose (913) 963-4241 partiesbyrose.com

Larson Building Company (913) 221-0880 larsonbc.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Cy Financial (913) 322-3500 cyfinancial.com

A&M Home Furnishings (913) 438-3868 amhomefinishings.com

Santa Fe Tow Service (913) 894-5201 santafetowservice.com

Metcalf Partners (913) 214-3728 metcalfpartners.com

Design Connection Inc (913) 851-8776 designconnectioninc.com

Shawnee Mission Ford (913) 631-0000 shawneemissionford.com

Retirement Solutions Group (913) 685-9422 rsgusa.net

HOME SERVICES

CHARITIES & FUNDRAISERS

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

Savers (913) 649-4381 savers.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

MaxLife Health & Laser Center (913) 717-9415 maxlifeweightloss.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Michael Barnthouse, MD. Gynecology & Women’s Wellness (816) 941-0700 drbarnthousegyn.com/

Quivira Park Family Dentistry (913) 955-2300 quiviraparkdental.com/

CenterFire (913) 782-4900 centerfiress.com

Hot Spot Pools & Spas, LLC (816) 781-8884 libertyhottub.com Overland Park Ballroom and Social Club (913) 957-0579 overlandparkballroom.com

40

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

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Koenig Building (816) 457-9445 koenigbuilding.com

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

Carpet Direct (913) 927-1001 carpetdirectkc.com

Garage Designs (913) 755-5980 garagedesignsllc.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE The Communities at River Ridge (816) 898-5477 lettiann.com

THE GOLDSTEIN TEAM, Better Homes & Gardens KC (913) 345-8877 goldsteinteam.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Gaslight Grill (913) 897-3540 gaslightgrill.com

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria Overland Park (480) 947-7100 grimaldispizzeria.com

Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com

North Italia (913) 232-5191 northitaliarestaurant.com

Summit Flooring and Turf (816) 886-2747 summitflooringandturf.com

Reverse Medical Spa (913) 268-0400 reversemedicalspa.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Children’s Mercy South (913) 696-8000 childrensmercy.org/rankings

OTHER

Pech Limo (816) 419-4969

SALONS & SPAS

Sunlighten Day Spa (913) 754-0831 sunlighten.com

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February 2016 | Johnson County Lifestyle

41

Parting Thoughts

FOOD RUTS

CAN HAPPEN ANYWHERE WORDS DENISE SNODELL

I

magine an early evening in the 1970s, somewhere in Provence, France. The late Julia Child is at her vacation home, taking inventory in her kitchen. Fresh, hand-picked ingredients, ever so abundant in the local markets, are heaped on her counters. Culinary confidence emanates from her heart and mind, straight to her fingertips.

Alas, it’s close to dinner time. But Julia looks out the window and gazes at the rolling lavender fields. She sighs. This is not just any sigh, but the curious exhale of a person who, at the moment, has just about had it. It’s that familiar epiphany when one recognizes a food rut has boiled over. Boeuf Bourguignon again!

Clearly, I made up the above scenario. But I can only guess this kind of thing happened to Julia--yes Julia--an icon of the epicurean world. She was, after all, human.

For those of us who are lesser kitchen mortals, we accept our homegrown kitchen ruts. We even relish our Tuna Melt Tuesdays, or our endless pasta-thons. These are the dishes we can prepare at home, reflexively, with little brain power. We forgive ourselves, because... life.

But now I’m in the throes of a personal food rut I can’t completely excuse: it’s an eating out one. A kind that, perhaps, should never happen.

My husband and I discovered a casual “indie” restaurant that suits us like no other. This eatery, in my opinion, matches Julia’s ingredient standards. Every offering is locally sourced, slightly offbeat and just plain delicious. The décor is what I would call industrial-yet-warm. Functional-yet-cool. Seating choices are either cozy or center-stage, but always coveted. It doesn’t matter where we sit, though. We go there for the food. We’d happily perch ourselves on a nearby street curb to indulge.

42

Johnson County Lifestyle | February 2016

I have dubbed this restaurant The Place. We frequent it way too much. I realize many couples have go-to dining spots, but that’s not really the rut part of the equation. The repetitive ingredient is me: I choose the same menu item every time. Every single time.

My eat-and-repeat dish is a fried avocado taco smothered in watercress and other stuff I have yet to identify. The fried aspect might not sound gourmet, but oh man. Generous green chunks of nature’s superfood are coated with a thin layer of breaded heaven, and then gently dunked into simmering liquid gold for just the right amount of time.

I will not budge from this selection. Nope. I’ll never try another thing at The Place because one time I did. The veered-off dinner was tasty and great, but it was avocado-less. Not a spec of watercress passed my lips. So much regret to swallow. Never again.

Some friends tell me they, too, default to the same menu items at their own favorite dining spots. Like me, they glaze over when food servers recite the chef ’s specials or catches of the day. We become laser focused on That One Dish.

I don’t know what this eating out inflexibility thing means. Are we creatures of habit? Stubborn? Unadventurous?

Then again, if something is delicious and makes you happy, then why not indulge with fixation? As our old friend Julia Child used to say, “Bon appetit!”

Hmm. Talk about ruts. She uttered that phrase a lot. Like, all the time. So there.

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