Leawood September 2015

Leawood

SEPTEMBER 2015

LeawoodLifestyle.com

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JACK SOCK AT WIMBLEDON HEROES TO THE FURRY FRIENDS PIERPONT'S AT UNION STATION LOVING LAKE OKOBOJI

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Editor's Letter

Happy anniversary to us!

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nniversaries tend to sneak up on me. At the Harrison house, we celebrate birthdays and anniversaries in the evening, when everyone is home from work and school, giving me one more day to go out and get a gift and a card. As organized as I’d like to think I am, I was never going to be that wife or mother who had gifts wrapped and waiting next to the boxes of cereal at the breakfast table.

And so it would seem, the tradition continues. We have an anniversary to celebrate around here, and par for the course, this one snuck up on me.

I really can’t believe it was six years ago that the first issue of Leawood Lifestyle arrived in your mailboxes. I was teaching middle school at a local Catholic school that year and it was comical to watch my students realize over those first few days of September that the lady whose picture was in the front of that magazine looked a lot like the teacher who was trying to make world geography and U.S. history fun and interesting.

Seventy-two issues later we’ve brought hundreds and hundreds of stories about our neighbors into your homes. We’ve made you laugh and on occasion we’ve brought tears to your eyes. We’ve introduced you to businesses and venues you might have otherwise missed and we’ve loved every single page of doing what we do.

And according to the notes you’ve sent our way, we’ve inspired you to travel, to adopt a shelter pet, and to deep clean the junk drawers. We told you about the perfect location to host your parents 50th anniversary party, and it would seem that one of my letters inspired a local daughter to opt for the more formal wedding her parents were trying to gently encourage.

We are truly honored that you choose to spend a little time with us each month and we’ll continue to do exactly what we’ve been doing. It goes without saying that we couldn’t do any of it without the businesses that put their trust in partnering with us, so please, when you visit one of our advertisers or call for that free estimate, let them know you read about them in Leawood Lifestyle.

Stay well neighbors, and I’ll see you around town!

SEPTEMBER 2015 editor-in-chief Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com sales director Lori Lapka | Lori.Lapka@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Johnston | Mary.Johnston@LifestylePubs.com Carolyn Braverman | CBraverman@LifestylePubs.com Mike Reilly | Mike.Reilly@ LifestylePubs.com Tim Carr | TCarr@LifestylePubs.com Carey Welsch | Carey.Welsch@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers Lisa Allen, Katherine Bontrager, Kendra Mathewson, Charles Redfield, Anne Rohling, Anne Potter Russ contributing photographers Cassandra Castaneda, Alexis Cook, Christina Sandberg, Tom Strongman, Studio Chyree

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Chelsi Hornbaker, Katy James layout designer | Nicole Sylvester copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell web developer | Hanna Park it director | Randy Aufderheide

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

ON THE COVER The Great Plains SPCA and Wayside Waifs are amazing animal shelters that impact our community daily. Read more on pages 28 and 42.

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7373 West 107th Street Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | LeawoodLifestyle.com Leawood Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Leawood’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 Leawood Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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28 22 Departments 22 Iowa's Lake Okoboji

Generations of lake lovers get away to northwestern Iowa’s

Great Lakes each summer.

28 It's Raining Cats and Dogs!

Getting to know Courtney Thomas at Great Plains SPCA.

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Good Times

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Around Town

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Star Student

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Locally Owned

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Page Turners

30 Family Feature

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Wedding Bells

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Hot Spot

40 Sold Properties 42 Hometown Heroes 44 Lifestyle Calendar 50 Parting Thoughts

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Good Times

Old Leawood 4th of July Parade

The 40-year tradition in this Old Leawood neighborhood continues with a parade of kids on decorated bikes, trikes, scooters and more circling from Ensley to Belinder to Meadow Lane to Meadow and back to Ensley while neighbors enjoy from lawn chairs.

To share your neighborhood gatherings with our readers, email Lisa@LifestylePubs.com for details.

The starting line

Elise Baker and Claire Griffith watch the parade.

Tyler Pitts

Deb Filla holds Banks Larson, with Staci & Justin Birk.

Hadlie Birk

Debbie Iles with her children Coco and Annecy

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

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CASA Superhero 5K

“Every Child Needs a Hero, but Abused Children Need SuperHeroes.” More than 1,000 adults and kids raised $46,000 to help CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) advocate for abused/neglected children.

PHOTOGRAPHY TRACIE LANSING PHOTOGRAPHY AND JOE COULTER

Andra Bessenbacher, Paige Sopyla and Brian Bessenbacher with KC Sporting mascot Calvin

Mick and Patty Matthews, honorary chairs

Lindsy Beck, Jamie Kelley, TJ Kelley, Catelyn Cahill, and Jesse Smith

Mason Masloski with Samantha McKee holding Baxter the dog

Jess Lloyd

Mike Steinmetz and Sloane Withers-Marney

Dedication of ‘Variance’ The Art in Public Places Initiative of the Leawood Arts Council hosted the dedication of a sculpture by internationally acclaimed artist, Albert Paley. The sculpture titled “Variance” is the centerpiece of the Tomahawk Creek Parkway sculpture garden.

Carl McCaffree, chair of the selection committee for APPI, Mayor Peggy Dunn, and artist Albert Paley

The art is installed at Tomahawk Creek Parkway & 115th Street.

Artist Albert Paley

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

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Around Town AMGUTTERS CELEBRATES MILESTONE AMGutters.com celebrates a milestone of repairing and replacing more than 20,000 professionally installed gutters in the Kansas City area. Known for their quality work and lifetime guaranteed solutions, and based in Olathe for over 28 years, they are the preferred dealer for the Rhino Gutter Guard and Gutter Glove guttering systems. Their goal has always been to provide a professional, quality solution and service before your gutters cause other problems to your home.

As a second generation, family-owned company, they stake their reputation on their customers satisfaction. For more information to solve a gutter problem or replace your gutters, visit AMGutters.com or call 913.780.0381 for a free quote over the phone.

KEEP THEM S.A.F.E. TRAINS CHILDREN TO SURVIVE ABDUCTION A new area business, Keep Them S.A.F.E. LLC, is working to protect children from would-be child abductors by providing classes to help children identify dangerous situations and resist and escape attack.

Following the kidnapping, rape and murder of an 11-year-old Missouri girl in 2014, Nick Spencer, a father, former Blue Springs police officer, and former United States Army enlisted soldier and team leader, was so devastated by the tragedy that he made it his mission to educate, equip and empower children to survive abduction.

Spencer launched Keep Them S.A.F.E. LLC earlier this year with the aim of training as many children as possible, and potentially, saving lives. The organization, which teaches safety and self-defense classes to children ages five to 13, uses the acronym S.A.F.E. to teach kids how to scan, avoid, fight and escape dangerous situations. All classes are taught by instructors with law enforcement or military backgrounds.

Keep Them S.A.F.E. will serve hundreds, if not thousands, of children across Kansas and Missouri this year, with plans for national expansion on the horizon as additional instructors are certified to teach the program.

More information about Keep Them S.A.F.E. and class registration is available at KeepThemSAFEUS.com.

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

LEAWOOD-BASED COMPANY CONTINUES TO EXPAND The Cocherl Family LLC and Heartland Services Inc. have recently begun construction for the third and final building at their campus at 143rd and Kenneth Rd. in Leawood. The groundbreaking celebration was held on August 11 with many employees, family, friends, and community leaders in attendance. The new building will have a “Thomas Jefferson” theme in style and challenge us with the Boy Scout Laws prominently displayed on the entrance pillars.

Heartland Services is the National Service Center for Panasonic. They currently provide the repair for the Toughbook laptops and commercial projectors. “As our business needs have grown, we believe it is the right time to add the third building,” states Patrick Cocherl, president. “We are proud of our 28 year relationship with Panasonic – starting with the repair of electronic typewriters in the early 1980s. Our new building will only strengthen that relationship. As a good Boy Scout – we will be prepared!”

AREA CHARITY TO ASSIST WITH POLICE DOG SUPPORT Most police dogs are crosstrained, so they can track people and drugs.

They learn to scent on the ground, for the scent trail that a person leaves, and in the air. Air scenting is important, because that way a dog can sense if a suspect has circled back around to ambush the officer.

The K9s are expected to do all of the disciplines in which they are certified. A majority of the local K9s are certified in narcotics, obedience, aggression, building and area search, article search and tracking. All certifications are completed through the North American Police Work Dog Association.

Going to the Dogs, a new 501c3 nonprofit organization, focuses its efforts on improving the well-being of law enforcements K9s.

The Board of Directors for Going to the Dogs works with law enforcement agencies on both sides of the state line to provide assistance for the K9 units. With budgetary constraints at the federal and state level, Going to the Dogs plans to fill the gap when funding is an issue.

Going to the Dogs is hosting their first fundraising event Thursday, October 15 at the Alexander Majors House and Barn starting at 6 p.m. For more information, contact GoingToTheDogs2015@gmail.com.

NEW SPA RETREAT IN OVERLAND PARK For seven years, Sunlight Day Spa has been the premier destination spa in the Kansas City metro. With increased demand and fully booked services, they have recently expanded their space located at I-435 and Metcalf.

Renovations include additional treatment rooms to keep up with demand for aesthetic and massage services and Sunlighten™ purifying treatments, an ADA accessible treatment room and a couples retreat. The new lobby welcomes guests with a serine, earthy ambiance with a wooded area and waterfall that complements their famous beaded relaxation room. This is a must-see transformation. Get the kids back in school and transcend into relaxation at the all new Sunlight Day Spa. With the holidays around the corner, now is the time to book holiday spa parties and to buy holiday gift certificates.

PARTNERSHIP BRINGS GOLF TO STUDENTS The Shawnee Mission School District and the Midwest Section of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) are pleased to announce an exciting partnership to bring a new program to Shawnee Mission students.

The Midwest Section of the PGA’s Starting New at Golf (SNAG) in School program will be a part of the Shawnee Mission School District physical education curriculum, in kindergarten through eighth grade, starting in the fall of 2015. Matthew Johnson, director of student activities and athletics, reports that more than 20,000 students in elementary and middle schools have the chance to learn golfing skills through the SNAG in School program.

The program is being funded through a grant from the Midwest Section of the PGA, which will help provide equipment for schools and training for educators. Tom Aikmus, PGA professional at Lake Quivira and Matt Murdoch, PGA teaching professional at Mission Hills Country Club, will serve as task force managers of SNAG in School for the district.

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KING LOUIE REPURPOSED AS ARTS & HERITAGE CENTER

LEAWOOD’S FIRST GNOME HOUSE? While the builder of what may be Leawood's first gnome house wishes to remain anonymous, he shared his reason for building this miniature masterpiece with Leawood Lifestyle so we could share it with our neighbors: "I sometimes ride my bike along the trails between Quivira, Tomahawk Creek and south to 103rd and have seen small gnome or fairy houses along the pathway west of Roe. It is not unusual to see young families with their kids enjoying them, wondering who lives in these houses. I had not seen any of these creative habitats in the Leawood area and I thought it would be fun to create something for families to enjoy in Tomahawk Creek south of the 119th street entrance.

As a hobby, I like to work with wood and paint. So I decided to create a homestead from scratch and find a setting that welcomed the new home to the park and be a gathering place that offered something fun for families and residents in Leawood."

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Johnson County's AAA credit rating helped the county achieve a better-than-market interest rate on the $21,460,000 in bonds issued to fund the new Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center in Overland Park. Slated for a 2017 opening, the former King Louie bowing and ice rink building will serve as the new home for the Johnson County Museum, provide an indoor theater for The Theater in the Park, include space for Johnson County Parks & Recreation District art and culture programming, and become a new advance voting site.

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September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

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Star Student

ARTICLE CHARLES REDFIELD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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lue Valley North 2011 graduate and Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tennis player has done well in his first five years on the pro circuit. And by ‘well,’ we mean he has earned more than $2-million on the professional tennis circuit.

It comes as no surprise that the former Mustang was very successful on the high school tennis stage as well. He won every match he played as we worked to win four consecutive Class 6A state singles titles. He only lost one set and that was to his older brother, Eric.

At the age of 22, Sock has been ranked as high as 30th in the world in singles and in April, he won his first singles ATP title at the Houston Open.

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

“That is my biggest highlight,” says Sock. “I loved to play there and singles is my game.”

He dedicated the victory to Eric, who was recovering from what was thought to be bacteria sore throat but proved to be a rare infection called Lemierre’s Syndrome, which was attacking his liver, kidneys and heart. Eric was on a life support ventilator for eight days before finally getting on the road to recovery.

Watching his brother’s near-death battle has had an effect on Jack.

“That opened my eyes on life in general,” he says. “I used to get upset with little things like missing a shot in tennis.

Family and people around you matter

more. I play a little more relaxed now. Life is bigger than tennis.”

Eric is recovering well and is working as a tennis professional at the Elite Squad Tennis Club in Overland Park, where Jack trains when he is back in town between ATP events.

One of the highlights of Jack’s career so far was teaming with Canadian Vasek Pospisil to win the men’s doubles title at Wimbledon in England in 2014.

“I will always be in history as winning at Wimbledon,” Sock says. “It was unexpected. We started out just trying to win some matches.

Then we figured we could win the whole thing.”

Despite playing with a broken finger, Sock and his partner made it to the third-round

of doubles before losing in early July of this year at Wimbledon.

Coming this month is the U.S. Open in New York City. This is Sock’s favorite tournament and where he has a great deal of success.

“This is my favorite event on the tour being an America and in our sport,” he says. “It is the most exciting two weeks of the year.”

This year’s U.S. Open is Aug. 31 through Sept. 13.

Sock won the Junior U.S. Open title in 2010 and in 2011 captured the mixed doubles title at the U.S. Open.

What are his strengths as a singles player?

“I have a big serve, forehand and quickness on the court,” he says. “I have mentally matured a lot.”

And what does he need to work on?

“I need to polish things up, my forehand and backhand,” he says. “I need to work on my mind and mental strength. I work on all that in practice.”

Sock is pleased with his reception in Kansas City.

“I want to thank Kansas City for its support,” he says. “I have loving fans around the Kansas City area and I hope to produce good results.”

Mike Wolf, who was a state singles champion in 1983 for Blue Valley High School, has coached Sock since his move to Overland Park.

What did Wolf see in the young Sock?

“It started with competitiveness on and off the court,” says Wolf. “He had a desire to be at the club all the time.”

And now Wolf sees a bright future for the 22-year-old former Mustang.

“If this were a baseball game, he is just in the fifth or sixth inning of his full ability,” he says. “It is mostly mental, but he is in a great place with much more to come.”

Wolf thinks that Sock will put it at all together in the next Jack with his brother Eric after five to seven years. winning the singles “There is so much title in Houston. more in him,” says Wolf. “He went to a normal high school and didn’t turn pro until he was 18. He has done things at a slower pace.

People need to be patient. He will just get better and better.”

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Locally Owned

Training Humans to Get the Most Out of Man’s Best Friend

WITH HIS COMMON SENSE DOG TRAINING, MIKE DEATHE HAS FOUND SUCCESS NURTURING THE ONE-OF-A-KIND DOG/OWNER BOND ARTICLE KATHERINE BONTRAGER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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ike Deathe is the kind of easy-going guy you’d want to grab a beer with, full of interesting stories and a keen intellect. That last part is not surprising, given that Deathe has a degree in psychology. Yet since 2008, he has been specializing in patients of the canine variety. While this may give you pause, it makes perfect sense. As Deathe puts it, “Training people is a much more effective way of solving behaviors in dogs.”

Through his company, K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Stupid) Dog Training, Deathe has helped thousands in the area find a more peaceful, platonic rapport with their pooches. Mike visits clients’ home and offers group classes, helps assess problem behaviors, and then provides pet owners with the skills needed to get the desired behavior out of their dogs. And his clients are devoted and vocal on how easy and effective his training can be.

“I really focus on teaching owners skills to work with their dogs, rather than me working with the dogs,” says Deathe. “The dog may listen to me, but once I leave, the dog has to listen to the owner.

Some of the most common complaints include: potty training, jumping up, pulling on the leash, not coming when called, puppy socialization techniques, and barking. I also do work with aggressive issues, including dog-on-dog issues and dog-on-people issues.”

Deathe says his aim is to make both the pet owner and the dog happy, so they can spend a lifetime enjoying each other. And the basic skills he thinks all dogs should know in order to make this a possibility include walking on leash, coming when called, a reliable 18

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

“leave it,” impulse control, having a soft mouth, and understanding and following predictable rules and routines to live with humans.

“I believe dogs are similar in ability to pre-verbal toddlers, so my beliefs are simple: You can use the same amount of force with a dog that you would use with a 2- to 3-year-old child,” Deathe continues.

“When viewed from this perspective, it makes some of the things people do to punish a dog obscene. Would you take a child’s dirty diaper and rub it in their face? Absolutely not. So why do people persist in rubbing a dog’s nose in its own accident?”

Instead, Deathe focuses on redirection, praising good behavior— and this is integral—ignoring the bad behavior. And this is where people make their biggest mistake.

“People forget to ignore bad behavior! They always want to correct bad behavior rather than make it obsolete by making it pointless. A dog wants your attention and will do it by behaving well or behaving poorly. The biggest tool folks have is giving and taking away attention. It’s really no more complicated than that!”

As Deathe explains it, dogs don’t do anything in a vacuum. If a pooch is being naughty repeatedly, the owner is doing something to reinforce it—and are likely entirely unaware of it. For instance, if a dog makes a mess on the carpet and the owner goes berserk? The dog will think its human becomes unstable around its excrement and go to the back room and relieve itself there to spare its human seeing it. Instead, the owner needs to reinforce the desired behavior—using

CHOOSING WELL MATCH THE RIGHT DOG TO YOUR FAMILY

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f your family is mulling over getting a dog, consider talking to a professional first. Deathe often counsels families to best match a specific dog and/or breed (and inherent temperament) with a family and its distinctive lifestyle.

And he highly recommends expecting parents to take the class Babies Don’t Bark through Shawnee Mission Medical Center.

For just $30, parents-to-be can learn how to prepare their dog for baby’s arrival and more.

Both a poor dog/family match and a family unaware of how to make the pooch happily coincide with a new infant can lead to much misery…and a dog that ends up at the shelter, an ending Deathe always wants to avoid if possible.

the front lawn—to such a degree that the dog never wants to go anywhere else.

“I also believe in resource control and making the dog work for the things that are important,” Deathe continues. “I tell all my new dog owners to hand feed their puppies, piece by piece, while making the dog focus its attention on them. Unless your dog is paying attention to you, nothing will get done. Hand feeding your dog for 30 days teaches them to focus on you, eat gently from your hand (have a soft mouth), and show impulse control. It also establishes you as the leader in the relationship, without having to be a butt-head.”

"Dogs give what they get," Deathe says.

And it’s his aim, through his incredible training, his books (Five Steps to the Perfect Pet, Forever Home, The Dog Owner’s Book of Poop & Pee, and How To Make Your Dog Come Without Being a Butthead), and his blog (KissDogTraining.com/blog), to make sure that give-and-take is as sweet and rewarding as possible.

For more information and training pricing, visit KissDogTraining.com.

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Page Turners

Unlikely Heroes 37 INSPIRING STORIES OF COURAGE AND HEART FROM THE ANIMAL KINGDOM WRITTEN BY JENNIFER S. HOLLAND $13.95

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pod of dolphins who protected swimmers in New Zealand from a great white shark. A cat who provided comfort to soldiers in Afghanistan. A llama who shines his very special light of love on the elderly patients in an Oregon rehab center. A paralyzed bunny who brings joy to paralyzed children.

An abandoned puppy who lost all four paws to frostbite— that’s him, smiling on the cover of the book—who learned to walk on prosthetics and inspires others with disabilities.

These are just some of the surprising and remarkable stories you’ll find in Unlikely Heroes: 37 Inspiring Stories of Courage and Heart from the Animal Kingdom (Workman; October 2014).

Jennifer S. Holland’s devotion to all species sent her on a journey to discover everything she could about the animal world. As she did in Unlikely Friendships and Unlikely Love, Holland proves even the tiniest of creatures is capable of great selfless acts and powerful emotion.

As a writer for National Geographic, Holland’s interest in animal relationships grew, leading her to search the globe for unusual animal stories—first in the form of friendships, then loves and now heroes. During her research, she found tales of animals who saved their owners or other animals from danger, who look out for the lonely or injured, and who act as surrogate parents or help humans with conservation work. And in each account she found a common thread: animal heroes, no matter their species, act not for recognition or fame, but for more modest reasons—kindness, loyalty and love. And once the heroic act is done, they live their lives exactly as they did before: eating, sleeping, playing, just as they are meant to.

Holland is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Unlikely Friendships: 47 Remarkable Stories from the Animal Kingdom and Unlikely Loves: 43 Heartwarming True Stories from the Animal Kingdom.

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

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OKOBOJI TRUE NORTH Generations of lake lovers get away to northwestern Iowa’s Great Lakes each summer.

ARTICLE ANNE ROHLING | PHOTOGRAPHY IOWA GREAT LAKES AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

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estled among Iowa’s wide-open acres of fertile farmland and sleepy small towns, just shy of the Minnesota border, a group of six glacial lakes glisten in the sunlight as devoted visitors approach. If your trip begins in south Kansas City, as it does for my family a few times each year, you’ll travel about 350 miles of country highways leading almost straight north. We share the roads and a two-finger wave with trucks, tractors, and countless rows of corn.

Then, like magic, the roads give way to sparkling blue waters and the promise of rest and merriment just CONTINUED > beyond the fields of green.

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

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OKOBOJI

(CONTINUED)

The word “Okoboji” derives from Dakota Sioux language meaning “great waters, reeds or rushes.”

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

“Okoboji” collectively refers to the chain of interconnected lakes and townships that surround them. The lakes cover 12,000 acres with nearly 70 miles of shoreline. The largest are Spirit Lake (northern most, reaching into Minnesota and spanning 5,685 acres), West Lake Okoboji (spring fed and 136 feet at its deepest, where some brave souls actually scuba dive) and East Lake Okoboji, separated by Highway 71, which you can cruise under while boating from West to East Lake on your way to the Barefoot Bar (if so inclined).

The word “Okoboji” derives from Dakota Sioux language meaning “great waters, reeds or rushes.” But in my family lexicon, Okoboji means “vacation” in every sense of the word.

BLUE WATER PLAYGROUND

Opportunities to relax here are abundant, as are water activities and lakeside attractions to satisfy the most adventurous spirit. That is, if you decide to venture from the lazy spot you’ve laid claim to on the deck, beach or dock. You can enjoy boat cruises along West Lake’s many bays and coves, water skiing, swimming, sailing (complete with yacht club, sailing school and weekend regattas), canoeing, kayaking, and acclaimed fishing for walleye, northern pike, large and smallmouth bass and more. Not to mention the shopping! The dining! The nightlife!

No boat? No problem! Local marinas, resorts and specialty shops rent or sell all your water sport and transportation needs. There are summer camps for children and teens, such as the YMCA’s Camp Foster, central to family traditions for generations. Arnolds Park, a lakeside landmark and amusement park, has entertained visitors since the late 1800s. The park boasts more than 30 rides and attractions, featuring a 65-foot Ferris wheel overlooking the water and one of America’s oldest wooden rollercoasters, the Legend, with its iconic apex, “The Point of no Return” – a must for every bucket list.

If dry land is more your speed, there are campgrounds and lodging for every group and budget, whether you’re looking for rustic, turn-of-the-century cabins or more modern accommodations. Any golfers in your crew? Five nearby courses beckon, as do more than 50 miles of hiking/biking trails, seven state parks, serene picnic areas and nature observation points, art and history museums, live music and even live theatre. Check out all that Okoboji has to offer at: VacationOkoboji.com.

VACATION LEGACIES

Marilyn Witt Tampke, of Leawood, has visited Okoboji her entire life, as have her five children. While growing up in Omaha, her parents would stay at The Inn, a vintage resort built more than 100 years ago. By the 1980s, the Witt family invested in their own summer home at West Lake’s Sandpiper Cove. “One of the things that

makes Okoboji so special is that it doesn’t change, year after year, decade after decade,” says Tampke. “Beautiful lake houses of all shapes and sizes line the shore. No high rises, no huge resorts. Just ‘lakey’ places.” Among her dearest rituals: “I loved going to Arnolds Park as a child, my children love it and hopefully in a few years I will bring my grandchildren to the park. Okoboji is my true north.” Marilyn’s husband, Scott, bikes the trail around the lake over and over again. “He loves Okoboji almost as much as I do,” she says.

Dolly Rohling Simpson, of Omaha, is another Okoboji devotee with a wealth of lake knowledge and fond memories to share. As a little girl from Council Bluffs, Iowa in the 1930s, Dolly recalls staying in cottages on West Lake’s Manhattan Beach long before the Okoboji Yacht Club settled there. “The roads around the lake were poor in those days, so steamboats ferried passengers to and fro.

The cottages where we stayed had a flag on the dock that we raised to signal the Queen to come by and pick us up,” she remembers. “It was such a thrill to ride on the Queen.” The original steam-driven boats of the era were retired as road transportation improved. But the community has kept the excursion boat tradition alive. Today the Queen II sails across West Lake a few times each day, as the captain shares maritime history with tourists and toots the boat’s distinct horn when fans wave from shore.

FRIENDLY OASIS IS NO MYTH

A charming bit of folklore surrounds the Iowa Great Lakes and is worth exploring during your stay. Published documents and word of mouth through the years attest that West Lake Okoboji is one of only three “blue lakes” in the world. Likely not, say experts from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. But the water quality has officially been rated “exceptional” for the region, providing bragging rights all the same.

And while you’re conducting water studies, consider obtaining a degree from that hallowed (albeit mythical) institution, the University of Okoboji.

You too can join one of the most prestigious alumni clubs around, where most students “major” in goodwill and celebration. Many U of O festivities (as well as “Campus” attire and memorabilia) sprung up nearly 40 years ago, thanks to the playful imaginations of Herman and Emil Richter. The Richter brothers proudly own and operate The Three Sons clothing store in nearby Milford, Iowa, “The place to go when it’s time to look good on Campus.” Campus spirit has inspired annual events including the U of O Winter Games, a regional Youth Soccer Tournament, the Campus Bike Ride and Homecoming Triathlon/Marathon to celebrate the camaraderie that comes from just a few pleasant hours spent at Okoboji U. From Nutty Bars along Queen’s Court to treats at The Sugar Shack in the Central Emporium, Okoboji’s friendly hosts, scenic views and proud history leave an indelible mark on visitors. Just as the glaciers did in northwestern Iowa over 14,000 years ago.

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

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Getting To Know Courtney Thomas at Great Plains SPCA ARTICLE ANNE POTTER RUSS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

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ourtney Thomas, president and CEO of Great Plains SPCA, feels as if she needs a huge umbrella and some rain boots… after all, it is usualwo C ly metaphorically raining cats and dogs and other domestic of SP P the G pets everywhere she turns. This energetic, smart, spunky lover tho lled a u c s ands o Any fourof animals presides over two campuses in our metro area: one in o f k i t te n s a n d ca t s w h legged furry friend Merriam and one in Independence. Both campuses are the result of a in Kansas City (and their merger of two life-saving organizations; Animal Haven and No More owners) should be eternally grateHomeless Pets KC in June of 2011. With Courtney’s guidance, both locations serve the metro KC area and deliver services for pets, such as ful for the fact that this North Carolina gal with a degree in comprehensive affordable medical care, adoption services and innova- accounting ended up relocating to our area. Courtney’s passion tive community programs. In addition to taking in lost and stray pets, is animal welfare, and her practice is proving that our animal GPSPCA also provides services for the community. Anyone can bring friends deserve the compassion and care that they now receive. in a pet for veterinary services like general wellness checks, vaccinations She is a relentless advocate for pets and strays and provides the and microchipping, heartworm diagnosis and treatment, blood work inspiration and the innovation for her staff and volunteers to impact the lives of 800 pets a day. and diagnostics, dental cleaning, and various surgical procedures.

In the last few years, Courtney has literally and figuratively been herding cats. She has taken the least desirable, yet functional, facilities and parlayed them into brand new, state of the art centers serving everyone’s needs. Besides overcoming physical facility needs, Courtney has also breathed life into community outreach and engagement. This is just a sampling of what she and her team are up to: • Encouraging residents to shelter pets in their homes • Operating an intake process which facilitates surrendering a pet to the facility, rather than just leaving it on the streets • Providing a Behavior and Training program to help adoptive parents and pets adapt to each other • Young Heroes Camp, providing education and interaction regarding animal welfare to young children during the summer • SASSY Program (Shelter Animlas + Seniors + Supportive Youth) – helping seniors lead productive and fulfilling lives by creating and strengthening relationships with pets • Operation Furballs – a low-cost spay and neuter program • Working with PACK (Pet/Animal Coalition of Kansas) an animal advocacy group working to help animals in the metro, state and region through legislation.

As if all of that weren’t enough, the GPSPCA group makes pet care and adoption fun! They have created a permanent and pervasive social media presence; they find themes for pet adoption events (think holidays and costumes); they appreciate and applaud kids who hold fundraisers or birthday gifting parties for animals; and they fancy themselves matchmakers for people and pets.

Despite Courtney’s incredible success with animal welfare, there are still some enormous challenges ahead. Here is what she wants us to know: • Their needs are ongoing… 800 pets per day need help • A new intake facility is needed • More education is essential in the community and neighborhood outreach efforts • And, of course donations and volunteers are always needed! People are needed to walk dogs, socialize cats, work special events, assist in the medical center, and provide administrative help to the office.

Her parting words to animal lovers everywhere are, “Come and visit and you will fall in love! It is not a sad place, it is a place of great hope for our furry friends.”

And, if you see Courtney running around in a rain coat and rain boots, just know she’s trying to keep her head above water!

For more information, please visit GreatPlainsSPCA.org.

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SPCA AND OUR COMMUNITY AFLOAT:

•3 .5 tons of pet food distributed to the community in 2013 • 16.5 tons of pet food distributed to the community in 2014 • 5,682 pets found forever homes in 2013 • 6,656 pets found forever homes in 2014 • 15,000+ community pets seen at GPSPCA vet clinics in 2013 •21,000 community pets seen at GPSPCA vet clinics in 2014 • 4,500 shelter pets spayed or neutered in 2014 • 1 ,300 lost pets reunited with families in 2014 • 96.5% live release from GPSPCA in 2014

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September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

29

Family Feature

Happy Days In Blue Valley THE COMPASSIONATE MR. AND MRS. “C”

ARTICLE ANNE POTTER RUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY ALEXIS COOK

T

he endearing and memorable TV show from the 1970s and 80s coined the phrase “Happy Days,” but it doesn’t hold a candle to the philanthropic and kind-hearted Mr. and Mrs. “C” of modern Johnson County. Patrick and Kathleen Cocherl (Pat and Kathy) are the quintessential mom and pop of altruism in our own community.

For the last eight years, the Cocherl family has been giving scholarships (Cocherl Family Foundation Scholarships) to deserving Blue Valley students who wish to continue their education in a post-secondary setting. In 2015, 19 students from a variety of Blue Valley schools were each awarded scholarships to cover tuition, books and fees at the school of their choice – totaling $97,000. That’s an average of a little more than $5,000 per student. That generous amount allows families breathing room and opportunities they otherwise might not have. The Cocherl gift to each student is also inclusive of four years of scholarship if the student upholds a satisfactory standing in school, as well as the gift of advice from Mr. “C” on how to navigate college.

Pat Cocherl has three rules for his scholarship recipients.

• Go to class.

• Advocate for yourself.

• Enjoy yourself.

30

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

Mr. “C” tells each and every student his three rules, he tells them that perfection is not expected but participation is expected, he tells them that he is personally available to them if they have questions or problems, and he tells them that they must communicate – with him and with their parents. Pat’s requirements for communication are just as common-sense oriented as his rules.

Students are expected to email him at least once a semester and tell him how they are doing. He doesn’t want to hear about their grades, he wants to know if they are making friends, going to class, talking to teachers, making an effort.

Elle McAlister is returning to K-State in the fall as a sophomore, and she is a “perfect example” of a scholarship recipient, according to Pat. Elle received her initial scholarship in 2014, and in 2015 she was invited to the Cocherl home to talk to the new class of nineteen recipients as they attended a picnic with their parents. The reason Mr. “C” asked Elle to come and speak to the group was that she understood the process of accepting a gift and making it work for her. She is a general business major, but not without some typical struggles her first year. She persevered in her studies, made the effort, and communicated

with Mr. “C” and is thrilled to be well on her way to a four-year degree.

Not all young people are interested in a four-year traditional college trajectory, and that is completely understandable to the Cocherl family. They are perfectly willing to fund non-traditional paths, if the student can convey their desire for a certain kind of program.

Adam Borker was able to do just that, and he is one of this year’s class who is receiving a scholarship. He is headed to Pittsburg State to study wood technology with his friend and roommate, Adam Pistorious, also a recipient. These two young men were enthusiastic and grateful to have such a promising future in front of them, thanks to the Cocherl family.

Reading this article will probably make Mr. “C” shake his head and turn a couple of shades of red. Pat and Kathy have not sought out publicity for their magnanimous deeds. In fact, they didn’t even want anyone to know about it except for the students who apply. But, with a little nudging they have agreed to be somewhat exposed. In exchange for going public, they want us to know a few things about how this scholarship experience works. First, Blue Valley guidance counselors are aware of the scholarships and encourage students to apply. Second, this is not a needbased gift. It is determined by essays that the students write… themselves. (Mr. “C” can spot a parent-written essay in a heartbeat!) And, third, the student must be able to articulate what it is that they want to do.

The Cocherls want to know what challenges a young person, what does he or she want to be, what drives him or her?

One student at a time, the Cocherl family is helping to ensure a bright future for our young people and our community.

Without reservation, they are contributing their time and treasure so that motivated individuals can pursue their dreams and achieve their goals.

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www.TheSmarterWayToInvest.com (913) 851-1100 September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

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Wedding Bells PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO CHYREE

I

&

Boggess Miller 34

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

n the glorious presence of God at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Leawood, Nikki C. Boggess and Ross T. Miller were married in a magnificent wedding ceremony blessed by three priests and the Archbishop. Nikki is the daughter of Bob and Brenda Boggess of Olathe.

She is a graduate of Kearney High School and received a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Kansas. Ross is the son of Terry and Terri Miller of Leawood. He is a graduate of Rockhurst High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Kansas. The couple met while attending KU and are both medical students pursuing a career as physicians at the University of Kansas School of Medicine.

The bride was escorted by her father and wore a captivating CB Couture gown, a very unique creation with the alterations and vision of the bride. The dress was embellished with lace and crystals over a v-neck and v-back trumpet fit that flowed into a sheath layered train elegantly trimmed in lace and crystals. The cathedral length veil was trimmed in matching lace and crystals. The bride carried a cascade of white and ivory flowers including hydrangeas and the couple’s favorite alstroemerias, wrapped up in a special family rosary along with a touch of lily of the valley from her mother’s bouquet. The bride’s attendants included her sister, Bridget Thoenen, as her matron of honor, Alexis Miller, Jill Wenderott and Emily Laskowski as her bridesmaids.

They wore wine colored floor length evening gowns designed by Jim Hjelm, enhanced with Swarovski earrings and Kate Spade bracelets. The groom’s attendants included his best men Sean O’Connor and Richard Roberts along with groomsmen Micah Levine and Jordan Marks. Bode Thoenen was a fine-looking ring bearer and Sydney Luzader was the lovely flower girl.

The ceremony was followed by an elegant and festive reception at Mission Hills Country Club. The venue was decorated with a river of white hydrangeas, roses and alstroemerias by Final Touch Studios. The guests were seated for a delicious meal while entertained with speeches and the first dances. The delectable multi-flavored four tier cake, by Nancy Stark, was beautifully personalized with the couple’s distinct N&R logo. The night was capped off with a rocking dance floor thanks to the energetic and very entertaining Pat Lentz Band.

The couple was sent off with love and sparklers to end the evening. The honeymoon included a return visit to enchanting Napa where the couple was engaged. From Napa they flew to Bora Bora before returning back home to continue their studies to become physicians.

&

Hershberger Crane PHOTOGRAPHY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

A

bigail Hershberger and Kyle Crane were united in marriage on June 20 at Christ Community Church, Brookside in Kansas City, Missouri. The ceremony was officiated by Rev. Aaron Bates.

The bride is the daughter of Todd and Alison Hershberger of Leawood. The bridegroom is the son of Brian and Michelle Crane of Overland Park.

The bride was escorted by her dad as she wore a Lazaro strapless, ivory and gold Alençon lace mermaid gown with a champagne tulle skirt with chapel train. She carried a classic bouquet of garden roses, hydrangea, ranunculus and peonies with the stems wrapped with the lace sleeve of her mother’s wedding gown.

Ceremony music was provided by Brookside Strings and organist, Scott Foppiano. Vocalists included sisters, Kayli (also a bridesmaid) and Jillian Jamison. The bridegroom’s sisters, Lindsey McMahon and Caylee Strnad read scriptures.

The maid of honor was Hilary Hershberger of Houston, Texas, sister of the bride. The best man was Stephen Nelson, cousin of the groom.

Following a plated dinner and dancing reception at Hallbrook Country Club, the couple left for a honeymoon in Kauai.

The bride is a graduate of the University of Kansas and is employed by the Olathe School District where she teaches high school English.

The bridegroom is also a graduate of the University of Kansas and attends law school at the University of Kansas. They reside in Lawrence.

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

35

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37

Hot Spot

Surf and turf

Moscow Mule

WHO WAS PIERPONT?

The restaurant is named for American financier John Pierpont “JP” Morgan. In the late 1800s, Morgan was a world-famous financier, art collector and banker whose corporate dominance helped merge companies in order to form the likes of General Electric and United Steel Corporation. His reputation as a railroad baron made him the perfect namesake for an iconic restaurant located in a railway landmark such as Union Station.

PIERPONT'S at

UNION STATION ARTICLE LISA HARRISON PHOTOGRAPHY ALEXIS COOK

S

ometimes the treasures around us are tucked into slightly out-ofthe-way corners and we forget they are there. Such is the case with Pierpont’s at Union Station. I never tire of taking in the architectural details of this amazing building and am so glad an establishment such as Pierpont’s continues to call Union Station home.

Their approachable lunch menu combined with a knowledgeable and polished wait staff make Pierpont’s the perfect destination for those who work downtown and need to entertain out-of-town clients. It is also the perfect place to share with visitors when touring area venues like the Money Museum, Liberty Memorial, Science City, Crown Center and Steamboat Arabia. The impressive marble staircase, dark wood, and soaring walls with plaster details unseen in today's modern architecture will give your guests something to remember.

Entrees include extensive seafood offerings as well as pasta dishes, salads and of course an impressive selection of mouth-watering steak. If you’re looking for lighter fare, soups, salads and starters could be paired for those with lighter appetites.

I ordered the taleggio grilled cheese sandwich ($8) which is prepared with cherry jam, applewood smoked bacon fresh herbs, served on a sourdough roll. Just as I suspected, it was a grilled cheese classic created for the grown-ups. The flavors blended together perfectly. My husband opted for the 12-hour short rib sandwich ($10) which was dressed with honey barbeque sauce, poblano coleslaw and sliced pickles on a potato bun. A flawless Kansas City classic on a bun. Enough said.

Side dish options for sandwiches include sautéed forest mushrooms, steak or sweet potato fries, asparagus with garlic butter, sautéed green beans and garlic whipped mashed potatoes, all for just $4. I can’t recall the last time I enjoyed such a delightful lunch for just $12 and the ambiance was certainly worth every penny.

The next time you have a special event to celebrate and want to add a Fountain City icon to the festivities, remember this Kansas City treasure.

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30 W Pershing Rd Kansas City, Mo. 816.842.8718 Pierponts.com

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

39

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Leawood Properties neighborhood

list price

sold $$

dom*

%sold/list

bdrms

baths

Leawood Lanes

$1,895,000

$1,947,500

136

97%

5

4.2

Hallbrook

$1,550,000

$1,475,000

64

95%

5

4.1

Hallbrook

$1,650,000

$1,325,000

412

85%

5

5.2

Leawood Estates

$974,999

$925,000

168

94%

5

4.1

Hallbrook

$869,000

$830,000

67

95%

4

4.2

Hallbrook

$845,000

$760,000

142

89%

4

4.3

Leawood Estates

$753,000

$753,000

0

100%

4

3

Hallbrook

$750,000

$750,000

229

100%

4

3.3

Leawood

$739,900

$707,500

109

95%

5

3.2

Bristol Place

$709,000

$705,000

62

99%

5

5.2

Wilshire Place

$675,000

$660,000

27

97%

6

5.1

Information obtained from Comparative Market Analysis for 07-01-15 through 07-31-15. *DOM=Days on Market.

40

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

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Hometown Heroes

MEET T.J. SWEENEY AND LANE STURGEON

ARTICLE ANNE POTTER RUSS PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTINA SANDBERG

T

o hear Lane Sturgeon and T.J. Sweeney tell it, it’s all very simple.

They play with and “love on” the cats, says Sweeney; they offer and receive unconditional love, adds Sturgeon.

“When I’m around animals,” says Sturgeon, “I’m happy and can’t help but smile. There is no judgment and we’re just loved for who we are.”

Sturgeon and Sweeney are regular volunteers at Wayside Waifs.

Both choose to spend their two hours of weekly volunteer time specifically with cats; Sweeney says he loves kittens and doesn’t have cats at home to play with. Sturgeon echoes that sentiment, but adds that she noticed more people volunteered to work with dogs, and she thought cats needed the same love and attention.

“I just give them lots of love, play with them, and help them get ready for a forever family,” she says. It was her love of animals and the encouragement of a friend’s mother who also volunteers at the pet shelter that inspired Sturgeon to make Wayside Waifs her volunteer home.

She’s serious about her commitment.

“I never miss a week,” she says. “I can’t imagine a better place to volunteer. It’s more like a family because we’re always here for each other.”

Development Manager Megan Harding says volunteers are essential at Wayside Waifs.

“We house hundreds of animals at the shelter. Without our volunteers, we would not be able to socialize them all daily. Volunteers perform more than fifty roles at Wayside, which helps us help animals and the people of Kansas City.”

42

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

To learn more about volunteer opportunities visit WaysideWaifs.org.

Sturgeon especially enjoys taking part of a special program called Waif Watchers, a group of volunteers and staff members who help an animal that has been at the facility for more than 30 days.

“We decorate their kennels or room and we use their picture as our profile picture on Facebook,” says Sturgeon. “We are their personal cheerleaders until they go to a home. My current waifs are Atlas and Nova.

I chose them because Atlas is visually impaired and needs the extra help, and Nova helps him get around.

I do get attached sometimes, but it makes me so happy to see them go to a forever home,” she says.

Sturgeon and Sweeney also help with comfort crews to make sure kennels are ready each day. Sometimes, she says, spending two hours each week at Wayside Waifs just isn’t enough. That’s when she tunes into the kitty camera.

“I can sit and watch if I want to,” she says. “It’s not as good as being there and cuddling with them, but it’s nice to see them.”

Harding says that Sturgeon and Sweeney—best friends outside the shelter—are all about teamwork.

“They help each other at the shelter and make sure our felines know how much they are loved. Shelter life can be stressful for animals; human contact helps keep the animals socialized and mentally healthy. Lane and TJ are here on a regular schedule, so we always know when we can depend on seeing them,” says Harding.

Sturgeon aspires to someday own her own pet sitting business. She’s starting small—she currently has 10 clients—and says her favorite part of the work is sitting with the pet and making sure they get lots of attention.

Harding says there are always opportunities for new volunteers to get involved at Wayside Waifs.

“Volunteers are our first line of defense and their ability to make good, independent decisions keeps our animals safe and healthy.

We offer various educational opportunities for volunteers to grow in their expertise," says Harding. "Working with animals can be challenging and rewarding, and one thing is certain: volunteering saves lives.”

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43

Lifestyle Calendar

September

SEPTEMBER 9 LEAWOOD JUSTICE CENTER OPEN HOUSE LEAWOOD

Start the evening out with a free trolley ride from the American Academy of Family Physicians’ parking lot to the open house. Once you arrive, go get one of the best tasting free ¼ lb. hot dogs you’ll ever eat and fill up on soda, veggies, chips, cookies and a chocolate brownie. Take in a self-guided tour of the justice center, check out the cool demonstrations, and watch and learn how you or a family member could become a lifesaver.

SEPTEMBER 10 - 12 MTH'S A NIGHT ON THE TOWN MUSICAL THEATER HERITAGE AT CROWN CENTER

Enjoy a fabulous 90-minute performance with table-side bar service. An original event, specially designed and crafted to highlight the individual performer, their stories, favorite songs, and anything else they'd like to share. A truly unique, upscale theatrical experience you will never forget. 816,221,6987 or MTHKC.com.

SEPTEMBER 10 CHEERS FOR CHALLENGER TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS, OVERLAND PARK

Beverages, live music, and a silent and live auction benefiting the YMCA of Greater Kansas City Challenger sports and recreational activities for young people with special needs and the accessible facilities at the Fred and Shirley Pryor YMCA Challenger Sports Complex. KansasCityYMCA.org/Challenger.

SEPTEMBER 14 POWER CHECK GEZER PARK

Ten-to-14-year-old boys and their families are invited to this free evening of fitness and fun hosted by Boy Scout Troop 10 featuring: Simple Science Juices – nutrition information and samples; BikeSource – how to do simple bike repairs; Midwest Aquatics – learn why swimming may be the best sport for you/scuba info and equipment available; Garmin – VivoFits available for try-ons and learn how to use one to track heart rate, BMI, etc. They will raffle off several VivoFits; StinkBoss – see special machines that take the stink out of shoes!

SEPTEMBER 16 LEAWOOD WELCOMERS FALL COFFEE LEAWOOD

Whether you've called Leawood home for decades or are new to the community, the Leawood Welcomers invite you to join them!

They have a wonderful program planned. Please call Elaine Rutledge at 816.943.0408 for the location of the gathering and more information regarding The Leawood Welcomers Club.

SEPTEMBER 18 - OCTOBER 4 THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE MISSION

The Barn Players will present the carefree, zany, roaring 20s musical at the Barn Players Theatre. Kansas-girl Millie goes to New York City in 1922 looking for a new life style and with hopes of finding a rich husband. Darn near perfect entertainment for the entire family.

SEPTEMBER 18 DINNER ON THE PRAIRIE OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM

Revel in an atmosphere of the 1800s with horse-drawn wagons, campfires and hay bales combined with cocktails, entertainment and fine dining. OPABG.org

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Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

☀㜀

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䬀愀渀猀愀猀 䌀椀琀礀ᤠ猀 䐀攀猀琀椀渀愀琀椀漀渀 儀甀椀氀琀 匀栀漀瀀

眀眀眀⸀儀甀椀氀琀攀爀猀匀琀愀琀椀漀渀⸀挀漀洀

SEPTEMBER 18 BLANCO Y NEGRO KANSAS CITY

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SEPTEMBER 22 - OCTOBER 25

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MIRACLE WORKER ComingTHE 2016 THE COTERIE THEATRE

Disobedient and wild, Helen Keller is a child who has been deafblind z gallerie Temporarily located at Town Center Plaza since infancy, alone in a secret world. Annie, a recent blind institute

Please join Guadalupe Centers, Inc at the premier awards banquet in the Latino community. Blanco y Negro acts as the formal kickoff to Hispanic Heritage Month in KC. This event supports youth scholarships, in addition to all services provided by KC’s oldest nonprofit, Guadalupe Centers. With a new campus in the northeast area, GCI now supports an even wider range of the KC population. The event includes dinner, dancing, live entertainment and more.

graduate, is a young, determined teacher. Annie senses Helen's curiosity and uses intense resolve and ingenuity to open Helen's world to language. 816-474-6552 or TheCoterie.org.

cr ate

&

barrel

pottery barn SEPTEMBER 22

SEPTEMBER 19 KC ENERGY & WEATHERPROOFING 101 LEAWOOD

LEAWOOD GARDEN CLUB MEETING

pottery barn kids The Leawood Garden Club will meet and present guest speakLEWAOOD

er Cathy Shones, Nursery Manager at the Grass Pad, who will disle creuset cuss “What’s Tried and True and New to Plant in the Fall." The meet-

The Leawood Sustainability Council invites all residents to a presentation about energy waste prevention. Two local speakers will share important information for homeowners. The event is free but an RSVP for planning and refreshments is appreciated. 913.663.9154

ing is open to everyone and guests are most welcome. Bring a sack lunch – beverages and desserts provided. LeawoodGardenClub.org

SEPTEMBER 19

JAMMIN' ON THE GREEN

TASTE OF LEAWOOD

SEPTEMBER 24 SHAWNEE TOWN

Don't miss the Harvest Moon Concert with the Kansas City Taste of Leawood is an an- Ukesters. The ukulele was one of THE most popular musical innual celebration showcas- struments of the 1920s. This performance features delightful tunes ing top Leawood Chamber about the moon. Light refreshments provided. restaurants in a fun, food festival setting. Guest can taste 30 of the area’s best HALLMARKET: A HALLMARK ART FAIR 30+ restaurants, cocktails & live music restaurants while enjoying CROWN CENTER SQUARE For moreunder infothe&stars tickets, visit LeawoodChamber.org Around 100 Hallmark artists, photographers, sculptors and dean evening at the event’s new Town signers will display and offer their work for sale. Browse waCenter Plaza venue. Feast on top menu items, and an array of tercolor paintings, sculpture, textiles, jewelry, photography and wine varietals, complimented by music and exciting activities. more. This is the artists' personal work, outside of their jobs Must be 21 to attend. Event held rain or shine. Buy tickets at with Hallmark. Purchases may be made by cash or check only, directly to the artist. 816.274.5745.

LeawoodChamber.org.

TOWN CENTER PLAZA

SAVE THE DATE!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 | AT26TOWN CENTER PLAZA SEPTEMBER

September 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

45

N

t

business directory ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

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

Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com

Paper Planes Photography (816) 519-0928

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

Ten Thousand Villages (913) 642-8368 overlandpark. tenthousandvillages.com

CHARITIES & FUNDRAISERS

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

HOME SERVICES

Puppy’s Playpen (913) 648-3647 puppysplaypen.com

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

Heartland Habitat For Humanity (RESTORE) (913) 648-6001 heartlandhabitat.org/restore Junior League of Kansas City-Holiday Mart (816) 444-2112 holidaymartkc.com

DRY CLEANERS

Natures Touch (816) 942-3240 greenearthcleaning.com

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

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Town Center Plaza (913) 498-1111 towncenterplaza.com VanBrock (913) 341-7273 vanbrock.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING ETF Portfolio Partners, Inc. (913) 851-1100 etfpp.com

|

Gail G. Dicus Keller Williams Realty (913) 709-1060 gaildicus.com Reece & Nichols Marsha Monica (913) 269-0036 marshamonica.reeceandnichols.com

Kahle Appraisals (913) 912-9122 kahleappraisals.com

Tabernacle Homes, LLC (913) 706-4500 tabernaclehomes.com

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

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

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

The Communities at River Ridge (816) 898-5477 lettinann.com

LuLu & Mimi’s Cleaning (913) 649-6022 luluandmimis.com

Burlington Mattress Company (816) 885-3512 kcbed.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Corner Bakery and Cafe (913) 766-0486 cornerbakerycafe.com

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

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Rock & Brews (913) 499-6495 rockandbrews.com

Container Creations Plus (913) 302-7646 containerscreationplus.com

Snowbird Maintenance (816) 723-7439 snowbirdmaintenance.com

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

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Elegant Outlook, LLC d/b/a Budget Blinds Of Overland Park (913) 402-1600 budgetblinds.com/overlandpark

|

Fairway Eye Center (913) 491-9123 fairwayeyecenter.com HCA Midwest (573) 443-8783 turn4thebetter.com

Historical

|

SPECIALTY SHOPS Quilters Station (816) 525-8955 quiltersstation.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE The Elms Resort & Spa (800) 843-3567 elmshotelandspa.com

Newly Restored

Conventions | Restaurant | Couples Retreat | Spa & Grotto Experience | Fitness Room European Lap Pool | Private Setting with Manicured Grounds | Café | Tavern

Located in Excelsior Springs, Missouri 46

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Kansas City (913) 345-8877 goldsteinteam.com

Granite Garage Floors (913) 717-7346 granitegaragefloors.com

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

Elegant

Weddings

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

AMGutters.com LLC (913) 780-0381 AMGutters.com

Koenig Building (816) 457-9445 koenigbuilding.com

Kansas Medical Clinic, PA (KMC) (844) 562-3376 kmcpa.com

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

1-800-the-elms

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47

WORDS KENDRA MATHEWSON

Birds on a Wire

Parting Thoughts

O

ne of my dear friends is a painter who sees the world through her amazing artist eyes. When she was the newbie in our neighborhood, her heart was sensitive to how to integrate her family into the community. Driving one day she noticed how birds perched on a telephone wire seemed to choose when to gather, and who to pause with. As she watched the birds sit, and then come and go, those birds spoke to her of how we create community, who we keep counsel with, and even the dynamic nature of the process.

She had moved in down the street, and it was my love of her work that initially drew us together. We shared a moment of connection on my front porch steps, and lingered like birds chatting on the telephone wire, before we flew off back to our hectic lives. Over the years, through working on house projects, painting together, building a club, learning new skills together, cooking meals together, playing cards as couples, we’d pause from the “flights” our lives demanded (me flying around in my minivan and she in her Mini Cooper) to sit like those birds on a wire and talk over tea. This is how we became friends.

That is community. That is how community begins and how it grows. These one-on-one connections expand and extend and become a beautiful web of interconnectedness. Through

50

Leawood Lifestyle | September 2015

“I Think I’ve Got This” by Lisa Lala | Birds on a Wire Series

words, stories, shared experiences and common interests, we find inspiration to create our communities.

My friend’s keen observations became the main theme of a series that has become her signature. The beauty of her Birds on a Wire series, and her reflections on community, have inspired me to embrace and celebrate more the important place it has in our lives. We live in such an individualistic society that our personal empowerment sometimes overshadows the significance of our need for each other. Like the ingredients of an exceptional recipe, or the materials used to construct a quality home, a community is only as good as the people who comprise it. Because the people are who ignite an idea, imagine a future, share an event, take the bull by the horns, see a need and fill it, spread the word about a new business, open their home to new families, bring a meal when there’s an illness, invest in a neighbor or believe in a student, give witness to struggles and celebrate successes.

Our magazine is your “wire.” Let us pause to read the stories that have been inspired by our community, to drink in the beautiful photographs that paint the story of us. Email your editor and publisher, or better yet reach out and enjoy a cup of coffee together. Let us stop here in the pages of our publication each month and celebrate like birds on a wire, before we fly off back to our busy lives. You inspire us.

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