Leawood February 2015 by City Lifestyle

Leawood

FEBRUARY 2015

LeawoodLifestyle.com

™

the

Food issue

Made in America The Kansas City Originals Sassy Pantry’s Imaginative Jams Mission Farms: A Foodie Destination

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love leTTer INGREDIENTS: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup butter 2 teaspoons lemon zest

1 tablespoon orange zest 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup candied cherries, chopped

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 475 degrees F (245 degrees C). 2. Blend flour, sugar and salt. Cut in butter, lemon zest and orange zest until mixture resembles coarse meal. Blend sour cream in evenly. 3. Gather dough into firm ball. Divide in half. Roll on well-floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut in 3 x 2 inch pieces; fold ends to center to resemble an envelope, overlapping slightly; seal with tiny piece of candied cherry. 4. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Brush tops with water; sprinkle with sugar. Bake 6 to 8 minutes.

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Editor's Letter

How Do You Show Your Love?

recently realized that I tend to show my love with offerings of food. Now, before you laugh, no, my husband and children are not rolling down the aisles thanks to daily feasts prepared by this loving gal. It’s just that I do love to entertain. Any excuse to put out a spread of appetizers and desserts, I’m all over it. When someone in my circle is sick or has just had a baby, I’m happy to jump on the Meal Train site and sign up to bring a meal. A trip to the office for a meeting is always better if I walk in It was a true joy to spotlight so many local, independent restaurants in this food-themed iswith a treat to share with the team. And sue. My brother, pictured here, was a respected when Christmas approaches, I know I’ll chef and restaurant owner in coastal Maine for bring a smile to my dad’s face when I more than 20 years. We lost him suddenly in October. Clearly, my passion for sharing food is give him a tin of the candied pecans he’s a family trait, one that makes me proud. loved for years. But this realization made me wonder how others show their love. My husband shows love by solving problems. Whether they are technology related (his specialty) or simple nuisances like burned out light bulbs, he’s quick to do what it takes to solve the little problems that irritate us regularly. He’s never met a remote control or gizmo that befuddles him while I’ve been brought to tears of frustration when I can’t figure out how to watch what is saved on the DVR. When I call him because I’m once again a little bit lost on a trip downtown or to an unfamiliar corner of the county, he’s quick to stop what he’s doing and map quest me out of my predicament. My dad, he’s a household helper. He came to KC from Chicago to help build a swing set for his grandsons one (very, very hot, humid summer) weekend. Every time he visits, he wants to help me with something around the house. He’ll take my car to get the oil changed. He’ll thin out the daylilies and hosta plants in the garden and edge the patio while he’s at it. As a child, I have memories of trips to my grandma’s where he was always equally as helpful. Others are advice givers and I suppose I know several others who show their love by being quiet listeners and passionate prayer warriors. So it got me thinking, as we approach the international holiday of love, what do you do to show your love to those around you? I encourage you to give this some thought and ask others in your family what they think about the idea. And once you’ve put your finger on it, show your love to someone who needs it this month.

FEBRUARY 2015 editor-in-chief Lisa Harrison | Lisa@LifestylePubs.com assistant editor Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@LifestylePubs.com sales director Michael Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales Mary Beth Stauch | MStauch@LifestylePubs.com Tim Carr | TCarr@LifestylePubs.com Dom Green | DGreen@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers Katherine Bontrager, Mary Bush, Lauren Claflin, Chris Clark, Morgan Alan More, Kimberly Winter Stern, Tom Strongman contributing photographers John Caulfield, Alexis Cook, Madi Dombrowski, Bonjwing Lee, Courtney Long, Tom Strongman, New Friends Photography, Gene Starr, Jeff & Nita Stultz, Jenny Wheat

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

Have a happy Valentine’s Day neighbors, and I’ll see you around town. by Community ™

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com on the cover

The perfect pies at Rye in Mission Farms are not to be missed. Be bold and start with dessert. Read more on page 28. photography by Bonjwing Lee

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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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February 2015

Departments 10

Good Times

Around Town

Wedding Bells

Our Contributors

20 Page Turners 22

Your Neighbor

Locally Owned

Terrific Teachers

40 Tech Today

28 A Tasteful Mission Local developer collaborates with area chefs to transform a field of dreams.

42 Star Students

32 What’s YOUR Favorite Restaurant?

44 Driver’s Notebook

We asked a few well-known neighbors and here’s what they said.

49 Sold Properties

34 The Kansas City Originals

50 Lifestyle Calendar

This local group is vibrant and growing in 2015.

Parting Thoughts

28 Lifestyle Publications

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Good Times

“Unbroken” Preview Gala

The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial hosted a red carpet reception and special preview screening of the new film before its release. Presented by Waddell & Reed and Ivy Funds.

George Brett and Mayor James

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Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

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The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park hosted a wonderful Nutcracker Tea Party in December. Families plan months in advance for this holiday tradition and all three shows were sold out. Photography Gene Starr

Snow Queen & King–Grace DeYoung-Daniels & John Swapshire

Vicki Allen-Reid, Michele Hamlett-Weith and Christina Valdez, Legacy School of the Arts

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Good Times

Ozanam’s 31st Annual Hollywood Holiday Gala

Approximately 800 guests gathered at The Sheraton Crown Center to support Ozanam. Proceeds from the annual event support life-changing services for at-risk youth at Ozanam. Photography Jeff & Nita Stultz

Gala Chairs Bill & Carole Cobb & Honorary Chairs Mary and Tom Bloch

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Around Town Leawood Student Crowned Miss Flint Hills Emporia State University junior Bridget Carter was recently crowned Miss Flint Hills. The life-long resident of Leawood is a 2012 graduate of Blue Valley High School and is studying elementary education at ESU. In her free time, Carter is an ESU student ambassador, volunteers at her church, and an active member in her sorority. She will compete in the Miss Kansas Pageant in June. This is sponsored by the Miss America Organization. Miss America contestants at all levels raise money and awareness for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the Miss America Scholarship Program. CMN provides support for KU Medical Center in Kansas City. To donate visit MissAmericaForKids.org/Donate/ BridgetCarter. Bridget is the daughter of Bruce and Beth Carter, and the granddaughter of Bill Richter, all of Leawood.

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Antioch Church Sponsors Run For 1 In 2014, roughly 4.5 million people were enslaved in human trafficking. While this injustice seems so overwhelming, we are choosing to take a stand and be a part of the solution. Antioch Church will be hosting its second annual Run For 1 5K on April 25 at Theatre in the Park in Shawnee to support the Kansas City-based organization, Exodus Cry. For the past six years, Exodus Cry has been focusing on the abolition of human trafficking. All funds raised through registration, sponsorships, and donations will go to fund their efforts in rescuing, protecting and counseling women who have been trafficked both locally and internationally. If you are interested in being a part of this life changing event, gather your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers to join with us as we Run For 1. Visit RunFor1.com to register.

GrubGo Restaurant Delivery Launches in KC

Texas-based restaurant Zoës Kitchen is coming to the Country Club Plaza. The restaurant will offer a distinct menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes served with warm, Southern hospitality. Customers will enjoy meals that are healthy and taste great. “We are excited to share our love for wholesome, fresh, Mediterranean dishes with Kansas Citians,” says Michelle Dean, regional operator of Zoës Kitchen. The menu has stayed true to its Mediterranean roots, serving an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs, olive oil and lean proteins. Zoës Kitchen offers family-friendly-priced food, with entrees ranging from $6.99-$8.99. It also offers two options for Mediterranean family meals – one that serves three to five and another that serves four to six. Zoës Kitchen is set to open in March at 100 Ward Parkway.

GrubGo has launched in Kansas City with participating locations from Downtown Kansas City to Overland Park. GrubGo was created to provide hungry consumers with the ability to order the food they want, from the local restaurants they want and have it delivered to them at their home, office or hotel for a fair price. Delivery fees start at only $5, and are based off of distance between you and the restaurant from which you are getting your food. There is no extra per-person charge, no phone order fee, nor any other hidden fees. The average delivery time is 45 to 55 minutes, based on traffic, the time it takes to prepare the food, and weather conditions. They specialize in individual meals, group lunch deliveries, and drop off catering. Contact them for business accounts, special offers and more information. Participating locations include: Affare, Blanc Burgers + Bottles, Clock Tower Bakery, Cupcake a la Mode, Johnny Cascone’s, Le Peep, Lenexa Longbranch, Longbranch Steakhouse, Los Corrals, Mac’s Sports Pub, Michael Forbes, Tanners at 87th and Waldo, Winslow’s BBQ, Wing Busters and Woodsweather Café.

dry Cleaners Expands Service in Johnson County

Amethyst Place Needs Donations

For generations, customers on the Missouri side of the state line have put their trust in Ross Miller Dry Cleaners. Their dedication to customer satisfaction is well known. Now this family-owned business is expanding their door-to-door pick-up and delivery service to Johnson County. Take one more item off of your weekly to-do list, save gas, save time and let the team at Ross Miller take care of your dedicates and dry cleanables. Pick up and drop off

Amethyst Place provides safe and supportive transitional housing for women in recovery and their children. The program currently serves 38 families in well-maintained, fully furnished apartments. Families reside within a community with the mutual goal of maintaining a healthy and drug-free life. Families share responsibility and accountability for children, the apartment building, a safe environment and maintenance of their recovery.

ZOËS KITCHEN COMING TO COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Amethyst Place is always in need of furniture and other household items. Their top needs right now are: Pots & pans, bagless, working vacuums, microwaves, mattress pads (twin & full), laptops--someone wipes them clean and sets them up for moms who complete GEDs and enroll in college while living at Amethyst Place. They are also in need of volunteers to provide childcare during events for the moms. If you have donations, please contact Shanda Moon at shanda@amethystplace.org or call 816.231.8782.

KC Auto Museum Opens What began as an idea by a group of car enthusiasts recently turned into a reality for the Kansas City car community. Two years of grassroots marketing and three awards later, the Kansas City Automotive Museum received its first major donation from a private donor, making the long-awaited museum possible. The Kansas City area is home to major automotive and motorcycle manufacturing, racing and a vibrant collector community. We have a long, storied and proud automotive heritage that needs to be preserved and celebrated. Currently located in Olathe, the interim museum features a rotating collection of more than 30 cars and motorcycles in a 12,000 square foot display space. A racing simulator is sure to be popular with enthusiasts of all ages. The museum highlights

February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

Around Town significant Kansas City automotive history such as 1965 Le Mans winner Masten Gregory (the “Kansas City Flash”), the Ford Winchester Plant, and Greenlease Cadillac. In addition, the museum hosts car club meetings and special events throughout the year. For more information, visit KansasCityAutoMuseum.com.

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Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR AT THE NELSON Join the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art to celebrate the Year of the Sheep. The event takes place Friday, February 13, from 5 to 9 p.m. Festive international attire encouraged at this event where all activities and performances are free and open to the public. Chinese food will be available for purchase in Rozzelle Court Restaurant and Bloch Lobby. Selections from Bo Ling’s Fine Chinese Cuisine will be available in the Creative Café. The Fabulous Chinese Acrobats will perform acrobatic stunts and feats of balance, flexibility and strength at 5, 6:30 and 9 p.m. Other performances, demonstrations and activities throughout the museum will include: Shaolin Lohan Pai Dance Troupe Lion Dance, Tai Chi demonstration, Chinese Drums, Jasmine Chinese dance group, Chinese Yo-Yo, Guzheng & Pipa Performances, Chinese tea demonstration and tasting, hands-on art activities and Chinese games, Zodiac animal hunt, live calligraphy and painting, and more in the galleries.

Wedding Bells

Hagen Anderson

Elegant

Historical

Newly Restored

Photography John Caulfield

riends and family traveled from near and far to Queen of the Holy Rosary in Wea to attend the wedding of Maribeth Hagen to Reuss Anderson on November 15, 2014. The parents of the bride are Elizabeth and Michael Hagen of Leawood. The parents of the groom are Mary and Paul Anderson, also of Leawood. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her father and wore an Emily Hart gown with sweetheart neckline. She carried a beautiful bouquet of hydrangea, ranunculus and roses in shades of white and ivory created by florist Tom Fields. Bridesmaids wore knee-length sapphire blue dresses with a lace overlay. The maid of honor was Kathleen Hagen, and bridesmaids included Anne Hagen, Emily Hagen, Ryan Jones, Skyler Taylor, Stephanie Kime and Erin Anderson. The best man was Matthew Wiggins and groomsmen included Mark Messner, Brad Gardner, Chris Blackwell, Mike Corte, John Schweitzer and John Hagen. The groom is a graduate of Saint Louis University and works for Garmin as an aviation database specialist. The bride is a graduate of Butler University in Indianapolis and works as a personal trainer for her own company, One Body KC, and as a real estate agent with The Michael Hagen Group-Keller Williams. The bride and groom were sent off with bells and bubbles after an evening of dinner, toasts and dancing at the Grand Street CafĂŠ. They enjoyed a wonderful week of honeymooning and exploring in Napa, San Francisco, Carmel and Palm Springs, California.

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Our Contributors Lauren Collinsworth Claflin

Since meeting at the University of Kansas a quarter century ago, my husband, Dave, and I have wandered the globe together. We’ve been lucky to live, and work, in some of the most beautiful places in America. However, the people in Leawood are among the world’s finest, and family and friends lured us home. The opportunity to raise our children near grandparents, cousins and Jayhawk basketball has been wonderful. Now a freelance writer and mom of four very busy girls, I zigzag throughout Leawood, getting triplet seniors and my third grader to the many places their schedules dictate. When the Jayhawks are playing, they find rides. Jenny Wolff

Meeting people is a joy. Everyone has a story, and I like hearing them. So, it is a great pleasure to be a contributor to Lifestyle Publications. As a KU journalism graduate, I spent the first decade of my career in television news, the second as owner of a video company, the third decade raising a houseful of children and the fourth in corporate communications. Over the years, I’ve met many wonderful people who have given me the privilege of sharing their stories. Thanks to all my inspirational friends—present and future—and to Rick, a great husband and editor. Kimberly Winter Stern

My career as a freelance food, travel and lifestyle writer and radio show co-host on LIVE! From Jasper’s Kitchen is fueled by an innate curiosity about the human spirit and world around me. And lucky me, I live in a dynamic area with many stories waiting to be told. As a 25-year resident of Overland Park, I’m contin-

ually amazed at the fascinating people, creative entrepreneurs and proactive organizations doing wonderful things. Travel is an integral part of my life, too — discovering the adventures waiting just down the road. My motto: In life, always lick the bowl clean. Chris Clark

His Twitter bio calls him an “outnumbered father of two redheads” – daughters who somehow keep him even busier when he’s off the clock as news editor for The Associated Press’ Kansas City bureau. A Lee’s Summit resident since 2005, Chris leads a team of text and visual journalists covering breaking news and enterprise journalism across Missouri and Kansas. Before coming to Lee’s Summit, Chris was AP’s news editor in Salt Lake City, where he split his time directing the news and roaming Utah’s numerous wilderness paths. He brought his love of trail running home to Missouri, and spring weekends will find him roaming at the James A. Reed wildlife area with his wife, Laurel, and daughters Aidan and Raegan, 13 and 11. Katherine Bontrager

With the exception of a few brief sojourns, Leawood has been the place I’ve called home for some 20 years. Its people and places are among the finest I’ve encountered in all my travels. After graduating with a bachelor’s from the University of Missouri and a master’s of journalism from Northwestern University, I’ve worked on newspapers, magazines, books, websites, greeting cards and more. I now freelance fulltime while trying to balance the needs of a golf-obsessed husband, our daughter and twin boys, and a menagerie of animals. Some days are more successful than others.

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Page Turners

Made In America A Modern Collection of Classic Recipes

•MADE IN•

america of CLASSIC RECIPES

A MODERN COLLECTION

Ó & MEGAN COLBY

G A R R E LT S

Written by Colby and Megan Garrelts $21.99 | 152 Pages

oday, American roadways once carved by pioneers are lined with rustic roadhouses, classic diners and rural restaurants that highlight the renowned foods in each region—from fried chicken stands to barbecue joints, delis to crab shacks, and bakeshops everywhere that celebrate the all-American slice of pie. At home, American traditions embrace both history and family, in classic Thanksgiving feasts and picnics on quilts with ice cream under a night sky filled with fireworks on our nation’s birthday. The food of the Midwest is the last untold tale in modern American cooking, but it’s a central one—in every sense of the word. In the 19th century, farmland in the middle of the country was cheap, attracting thousands who hoped to make their living off the land. For others, the Midwest was the last stop before the arduous journey west. Some travelers kept going, but others stayed put, and their traditions and recipes took root with them. For us, the roots of our love of food and cooking, the inspiration for becoming chefs—and really, a big part of the reason we were

drawn to each other—reach back to our own family tables: Colby’s in Kansas and Megan’s in Illinois. Born and bred in the middle of America, we share the same memories of fresh corn off the stalk in hot summers, slow-cooked meats, and handmade sweets that filled our grandmas’ homes. The recurring theme in this book is family: Made In America is profoundly based on tradition, and here in the middle, recipes are shared among families, passed along through a “potluck” of cards tucked into a tin box or just by watching your grandmother at work in the kitchen. You pick up a recipe box to make pies and you know the recipe for pickling garden vegetables by heart. In this cookbook, we share our simple approach to food and cooking—the kind of cooking we do in our own kitchen at home. “Give the people what they want” is a phrase we used a lot when creating our restaurant, Rye, showcasing the food and flavors of the Midwest. In this book we intend to do the same: offer humble recipes, stories from around our table, and a new perspective on what it means to be from the middle and how we cook, eat and live.

"For a country that’s famous for its amber waves of grain, the landscape of American food is amazingly diverse and colorful, woven with the flavors of every culture that has added to our collective heritage."

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Your Neighbor

Jammin’ in Prairie Village Article Mary Bush | Photography Alexis Cook

hat goes better with jam than bread? Lots of things, according to Prairie Village resident Kay Findlay, owner of Our Sassy Pantry, a new business that manufactures and markets a line of unique fruit spreads with names like Bacon Jam, Wicked Tomato Jam, Cosmo Cranberry Jam and more. Findlay, whose six, jazzy jams are sold locally in more than a dozen retailers, got the idea for the business in 2013 when Marisa Roberts, a trained chef and busy caterer in Kansas City, Kan., came up with a jam her clients loved. “Marisa created a wonderful bacon jam and together, we came up with some fun combinations and names for some other jams,” says Kay, also a part-time occupational therapist and real estate agent. Findlay’s daughter Caroline Findlay jumped on board and created the company’s website (OurSassyPantry.com) and helped her mother make and market the jams. The pair marketed the jams at the Overland Park Farmers Market as well as at some other local festivals and easily kept up with demand. But that changed in August 2013. With Roberts’ help, Kay formally introduced Our Sassy Pantry’s Bacon Jam at BaconFest, a one-of-a-kind fundraiser for the Rehabilitation Institute of 22

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Kansas City, an event that showcases unique drink and food fare featuring bacon. “We passed out samples of our Bacon Jam on macaroni and cheese, cheesecake and BLT crostinis,” says Kay. “People literally ate it up and wanted to know where they could buy it.” Kay was so busy passing out samples and answering questions, she didn’t know her small company won first prize for BaconFest’s best food entry. “We didn’t even know there was a contest,” she laughs. “So it was a real surprise when we won.” The demand for Kay’s jams took off and since Our Sassy Pantry was not yet geared up to fill large orders, she had to finalize packaging, marketing and pricing. She began fulfilling large orders in November 2013 and since then, has been an almost one-woman show spending many hours making her juicy jams in a small, industrial kitchen in Independence. Daughter Caroline and friend Colleen Webster are often able assistants. These days, Kay is the company’s chief sales and spokesperson working with the small company’s customers and retailers who continued >

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February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

Your Neighbor

(continued)

now sell her products. The holiday season was especially busy. “We cook, package, label and deliver the jams and clean up when it’s all over,” says Kay. “We sold more than a thousand jars of Bacon Jam alone in December.”

Each jar comes with a card suggesting many foods the tasty jams enhance. Suggestions include unlikely pairings such as the company’s Ancho Cherry Jam spread on a burger with white cheddar or added to fish tacos. Or the Wicked Tomato Jam topping a grilled steak. The recipe card for the Balsamic Blueberry Jam suggests pairing it with limes and a shot of gin and tonic. “We tell our customers jam isn’t just for toast,” says Kay. “We make lots of suggestions with each jar of jam, but truly, the possibilities are endless.” Thanks to Caroline, the company is now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr. Kay’s future plans include increasing the company’s online business, adding more wholesalers, expanding into other foods and introducing her jams to a national market.

In addition to the sense of satisfaction she has watching her products take off, Kay has enjoyed other side benefits of her start-up business. “It’s a lot about the people you meet along the way,” she says. “And I’ve learned so many things about Kansas City and how great this city truly is. There is a lot happening here that I wouldn’t have know about if it weren’t for Our Sassy Pantry.”

Find Sassy Pantry jams locally at: The Better Cheddar Olive Tree The Upper Crust Westside Storey Season+Square Abode Junque Drawer Boutique & Studio

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Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

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Locally Owned

A Neighborhood Pub with International Inspiration Red Door Grill Strives to Provide Fantastic Food And a Memorable Front Entrance Article Katherine Bontrager | Photography Alexis Cook

t’s a small world, or so the saying goes. And you need look no further than Leawood’s Red Door Grill to find proof of this mantra. “The concept of Red Door actually came from a great little pub in London,” explains Gary Zancanelli, the restaurant’s founder. “They always had amazing food, and it was clearly a neighborhood gathering place. When we’d visit, we’d be sure to stop in, but we could never remember the name. Thankfully, we could always recognize it by the distinctive front door. So we set out to create a community-oriented hangout with great food, amazing service, good company—and a front door you’d remember.” The restaurant filled the locale Paddy O’Quigley’s had held for years at 119th and Roe—a daunting undertaking, as Paddy O’s was a local institution. And the start-up wasn’t without a few initial hurdles, including some noticeable staffing changes. But Red Door has lived up to its London-based inspiration and be-

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

come a neighborhood go-to for good food and fun drinks. And the restaurant has passed muster for even regulars who frequented the Irish pub. “It’s not uncommon to have former Paddy O’Quigley’s regulars stop in,” says Gary. “Compliments about our menu and atmosphere are especially meaningful when coming from these customers. The location has a lot of sentimental value, and we love to hear that customers want to make us part of their new routine.” Part of that success, Gary says, stems from Managing Partner Neal Edwards, and Executive Chef Eric Hills, who’ve been invaluable in establishing a fun atmosphere and menu. Since opening, Red Door has grown a steady customer base of neighborhood families. The most popular menu item is Big Gary’s Meatloaf. “It’s a secret recipe we make from scratch daily,” Gary confides. “This meatloaf will absolutely challenge what you remember your mother putting on the table when you were growing up…just don’t tell her that.”

Another item that’s developed quite a following are their hamburgers. The secret starts with a patty from McGonigle’s—their burger blend is by far the best you can buy, Gary says—and an assortment of fresh toppings atop a fresh Farm To Market Bread Company bun. Every Monday the burgers are just $5—all day long—with fries just a $1 more. This special is a favorite among customers. “We have the ‘Remedy’ with bacon, egg, and cheese and the ‘Area 51’ with pepper jack cheese, fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, and our secret hot sauce,” Gary says. “Burgers are a fun dish because you can play with flavor profiles and interesting combinations, but our number-one priority is that they taste incredible.” But Red Door doesn’t disappoint those who want to cozy up to a fun drink. Its Moscow Mules, served in the traditional copper mug using high-quality ginger beer and vodkas, are incredibly popular.

“This drink has caught on around town, and we feel we played a large part in helping it onto the scene,” Gary says. “We offer several different varieties—and also have 12 different beers on tap and do our best to change them up frequently and feature local breweries such as Boulevard and Tallgrass.” Tuesdays evenings, select bottles of wine are just $15 for what their “Wine Down Tuesday” special. “It’s the perfect way to take a mid-week breather and relax with friends,” Gary says. “And our happy hour is every day from 4 to 7 p.m. We feature $5 and $7 appetizers, $2.50 domestic draft pints, $4.25 house cocktails—including our famous Moscow Mule—$3 well drinks, and more.” Gary says that the restaurant’s staff knows and loves its customers, so much so that Red Door really has become like a community. “Our goal was to become a neighborhood hub, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see that happen,” he says. “People come back time and again for two reasons: our atmosphere and our food. We’ve been able to create a gathering place with a fun, relaxed vibe—and our menu is filled with comfort food made from simple, fresh ingredients in an all-scratch kitchen. Combine that with the signature f lavor created by the wood blends that power our wood-fired grill, and you’ve got one unforgettable experience.” For more information, visit RedDoorGrill.com

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February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

A Tasteful Mission What happens when a developer collaborates with a bunch of hardworking chefs, restaurateurs, and tastemakers to open up kitchens in a field of dreams. Article Kimberly Winter Stern | Photography Bonjwing Lee, Jenny Wheat, Aaron Bales & Jackie Habiger

f you’ve lived in Johnson County for more a decade, you might remember a common grumble: All the good restaurants are on the other side of the state line. But that was years ago, before the suburbs became a bona fide culinary playground and broke the chain of the chain restaurant. Of course, Johnson County has always had local food pioneers hanging shingles: Creative chefs and restaurateurs opening oneof-a-kind eateries in diverse environs such as Downtown Overland Park, lackluster strip centers, and sparkly upscale shopping destinations. We still love and nurture and frequent those restaurants, whether their cuisine is labeled ethnic, new American, barbecue or comfort. Chalk up one all-local destination’s success that helped whisk away the perception of Johnson County as a chain wasteland once and for all to a bunch of diligent, dedicated folks determined to ply their original concepts to diners—despite lack of easy access to their front doors from 435. Mission Farms, at Indian Creek Parkway and Mission Road, sprouted up from the well-fertilized land formerly home to Saddle and Sirloin in 2006, just about the time Johnson County was in the throes of its culinary awakening. And many of the restaurateurs setting up shop in the leafy, mixed use development credit Doug Weltner—a commercial real

Blanc Burgers + Bottles

When Ernesto and Jenifer Peralta were approached by Doug Welter to open their burger-centric concept, Blanc Burgers + Bottles, at Mission Farms, they were all in. “Our original restaurant was in Westport, and we envisioned the Johnson County location to have the same cool, sleek look—and to be family friendly, but hip enough where mom and dad could enjoy a date, too,” says Ernesto. Blanc’s menu includes juicy burgers such as the top-selling Blanc Burger (think classic) and starters, salads, soups, craft beers, adult

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

estate broker who didn’t offer just a sales pitch, but dared to put a vision out on the table and offer a hand of collaboration—as the reason they set sites on suburbia. Weltner was hungry for successful Midtown, Westport, 39th Street, and even Prairie Village brands supported by people living “out south” to establish a presence in Mission Farms. “When we concepted Mission Farms, we realized what was lacking in Johnson County,” says Weltner, “and that many of the same restaurants serving great food in Midtown and other areas weren’t here, where a lot of their customers live.” Weltner says in many respects, Mission Farms is like a young Brookside. “People live here, work around here, eat and shop here, and I think we’ll mature nicely.” Today Mission Farms boasts some of the metro’s most popular restaurants: Blanc Burgers + Bottles, Blue Koi, Pizzabella, Room 39, Rye, and Tavern at Mission Farms. Newcomer Café Virgo and Bakery is excited to join the A-listers who have earned a place in our hungry hearts. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, brunch, and every other daily food requirement are available in this swath of suburban land that has helped transform Johnson County into a serious culinary contender. Mission, accomplished.

milkshakes, a kids’ menu, and more. The Peralta’s partnered up with many of Kansas City’s leading purveyors, such as The Roasterie Air-Roasted Coffee, Shatto Milk Company, Farm To Market Bread Co., and Boulevard Brewing Company, to heighten the pleasures of eating local. Don’t miss: $39.95 Monday Night Date Night, which includes starter, two burgers, side, and bottle of wine—to share, of course.

Café Virgo & Bakery

Blue Koi

Scott Chang and his three sisters— Jane, Ling, and Mindy—opened Blue Koi on Kansas City, Missouri’s bustling 39th Street in January 2002 and were blindsided by the clamor for their Asian homestyle comfort food, bubble tea, and vibe. “We didn’t expect people to embrace it like they did, plus the neighborhood’s support of and our loyal staff create a great experience,” says Chang. When Welter queried the Chang’s about opening a second Blue Koi location in the suburbs in 2007, the siblings saw an area with potential for growth. “Mission Farms is an oasis, and will never be a mega shopping center,” says Chang. “The restaurants are very different, which attracts people, too. Variety is important.” The Chang’s menu features many dishes served since opening, including Crispy Organic Tofu with the house Awesome Sauce. The family gathers on Sundays, when Blue Koi is closed, to test recipes or visit other restaurants, such as Webster House, Rye, Tavern, Room 39 and Houston’s. Cuisine defined: “Our father was from northern China; our mother from south China. Blue Koi’s menu reflects infused flavors from both of those cultures—family recipes my sisters and I have tweaked.”

Brian Hendricks opened his sweet spot in Mission Farms in November 2014 and traffic has been steady since. “Sometimes people want a little treat, scoop of ice cream, cup of coffee, or a freshly prepared smoothie,” he says. “I like that I’m in this vibrant destination with so many dining options.” The story behind the bakery’s name sums up Hendricks. “I am a Virgo—I was born in September— and married my wife in September, bought this business in September,” he says. “It made sense.” Hendricks and his wife grew up around 97th and Antioch, in close proximity to the area where Mission Farms is located. “The personality of the area resonates with people. It’s a Johnson County jewel,” he says. Stay tuned for: Café sandwiches, espresso drinks, and more goodies.

Pizzabella

Brussels sprouts may be an unlikely most-popular dish at a pizza restaurant, but Pizzabella slings hundreds of pounds of the knobby green veggie each week. “People can’t get enough,” concedes Hilary Glynn, who along with husband, Chef Quillan, owns the restaurant on the west side of Mission Farms. “They go well with anything on our simple menu.” The Glynn’s opened their first Pizzabella in the Crossroads Arts District in 2007 and quickly amassed a following for their innovative artisan pizzas, from-scratch jams and pickled onions and robust wine, craft beer, and seasonal cocktail offerings. Mission Farms appeals to the couple because of its niche location, agreeing with Weltner’s prediction that it will mirror Brookside’s panache and walkability. “And it’s family-friendly, but perfect for date night or girls’ night out,” says Hilary. Straight from the hearth: Pizzabella doesn’t have an oven in either of its two locations, which means it serves only authentic wood-fired cuisine.

continued >

February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

tasteful mission (continued)

Room 39

Room 39 Chef/Owner Ted Habiger, sees Mission Farms as a permanent fixture on the landscape—one of the many reasons the entrepreneur decided to venture into Johnson County from his original 39th Street locale. “Doug made us feel confident of this area’s future,” says Habiger. “And indeed—I don’t see this as a typical strip mall that will be ripped up in 30 or 40 years. Mission Farms is here to stay. It’s a well-executed urban setting in suburbia.” Habiger and Room 39 Mission Farms Chef Brandon Wynn cook to the rhythm of the seasons, thanks to the relationships nurtured with local farmers and producers.

“Our menu, rooted in classical cuisine, highlights the area’s best produce and protein, and guests respond to our culinary point of view,” says Habiger. “Good, simple dishes with value.” Meal deal: Room 39’s four-course tasting menu is one of the best values in town. For only $39, diners eat like royalty.

Rye

Tavern at Mission Farms

Megan and Colby Garrelts are household names on both sides of the state line. Bluestem, on Westport Road, has gained a cult following over the years; Rye, which opened in Mission Farms December 2012, has an adoring fan club, too—including the national press. But the Garrelts, both Midwest kids at heart (he grew up in the Johnson County neighborhood that borders what is now Mission Farms; she hails from a Chicago suburb) take the adulation in stride and instead, concentrate on five-star customer service and a menu brimming with memorable food. “Sure, our fried chicken is popular, but people love our reserve steak program,” says Megan. “And our Berkshire pork chops, lamb, trout—whatever rotates on our menu, people try.” Rye To Go: This year the restaurant’s successful takeout pie program (whole pies available starting at $27) will be joined by Rye’s new fried chicken dinner togo menu.

Tavern in the Village, Tavern at Mission Farms’ sister restaurant, is a Prairie Village staple after opening in 2011. Owner Kelly Manning and Operating Partner Anthony Zarate jumped at the chance to open an outpost of their brand Mission Farms in September 2012, wanting to put down solid roots for their south Johnson County version. “We are vigilant about accommodating guests and serving high-quality food, which pays off,” says Zarate. “We don’t manage from an office, but are on the floor, greeting our supporters.” Zarate and Manning like that Weltner and his associates wanted to build an area featuring local restaurants. General Manager Jason Connor acknowledges part of Tavern’s success is a menu that showcases classic dishes with a twist. “Our food is approachable and made with top-notch ingredients,” he says. In the works: Tavern’s menu doesn’t change often—and certain items will never go away—but development is underway for new brunch dishes, cocktails, and entrees. For more information, visit MissionFarms.com.

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

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What's YOUR Favorite Restaurant? Complied by Lisa Harrison | Photography Provided

When my husband and I are out and about and the topic of food comes up in casual conversation, he loves to ask people about their favorite restaurants. As someone who works downtown and who enjoys dining out for lunch three or four times a week, he’s always looking for new ideas. It’s a question that baffles some; it seems some are afraid to commit to just one, but others are ready to suggest and defend a favorite. In preparation for our food-themed issue, we asked a few familiar folks and learned there’s not a shortage of great choices in and around our community.

Joel Nichols Co-Host of KC Live on KSHB

We love the Blue Cheese Chips on a Sunday night at Sullivan’s in Leawood. The homemade chips would be great all by themselves but the blue cheese puts it all in a whole different category of delicious. Of course, the main course on Sunday nights is the great Lonnie McFadden singing, playing and dancing up a storm. If we’re talking outside of Johnson County, near where I work at KSHB on Kansas City Live, then the burgers at Blanc Burger in Westport make lunch a special occasion every day. Sometimes, the side is fries… sometimes a kale salad. Depends on how healthy I’m feeling.

Lindsay Shively KSHB morning anchor

Picking a place for date night almost always comes down to picking between Cafe Trio’s Mac Daddy or the bacon-wrapped dates and charcuterie plate at Avenues in Brookside!

Mark Alford Morning news anchor at Fox 4 KC

My favorite restaurant and hang-out in the Kansas City Metro HAS to be Jess and Jim’s in Martin City. It was one of the first places we ate when we moved here from Texas in 1998. They have the best steaks in town: juicy, tender, aged beef, cooked to perfection. I like to drizzle the steak juices over the giant, loaded baked potato. The VanNoy family, which owns Jess and Jim’s, makes sure everyone feels welcome.

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Kalee Dionne KSHB Morning meteorologist

I can’t resist the Filling Station’s hand-squeezed juice, so fresh and a natural source of energy. This is important when you get up at 1:45 in the morning. I also LOVE Austin’s Bar & Grill on Saturdays for their buffalo wings.

Peggy Dunn Leawood Mayor

Leawood is most fortunate to have an amazing array of extraordinary dining establishments, and for me to select a favorite is simply too daunting of a task. I am always delighted to patronize them on a regular basis—especially when my husband asks, “What’s for dinner?” To his inquiry, I brilliantly reply, “Reservations!”

Jim Cosgrove A.k.a Mr. Stinky Feet

My wife and I are both vegetarian, so we love the meatless tapas at La Bodega — and they’ve got a great happy hour! And just about any day of the week I can settle into a steaming bowl of Thai rice noodles at Bangkok Pavilion. Their Pad See Ew is my go-to dish, but it’s the relaxed atmosphere and delightful serving staff that keep us loyal.

Justin Wilfon Anchor for The Now KC

Definitely the most interesting thing I’ve tried in Kansas City is the duck tongue tacos at Extra Virgin. And no they didn’t taste like chicken.

February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

The

Kansas City Originals Vibrant & Growing in 2015

Article Morgan Alan More | Photography Provided

ansas City can proudly boast an acknowledged national leadership in providing unique and cutting-edge dining experiences. And it is definitely a place where diners seek and crave independent restaurants. Countless surveys in recent years demonstrate that most diners prefer one-of-a-kind dining establishments rather than their upscale chain counterparts by the wide margin, in one survey, 81 percent versus 19 percent. Diners of all kinds are also looking for menu variety, international flavor and an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. The Kansas City Originals community, more than 45 concept restaurants with 57 locations (some have multiple locations around the metropolitan area), are an independent restaurant group providing just those kind of experiences. Stretching back to its founding in May 2001 the group was determined to raise awareness of the city’s culinary and cultural strength and formed an association representing a diversity of concepts - from fine dining to casual - and serving an international banquet of cusines - French, Italian, Spanish, Mexican, Thai, Japanese, and of course, American in many styles. Out-going KCO President Christopher Youngers, an owner of Cafe Trio, is passionate about this mission. “Our members strive to be the absolute best not only in Kansas City, but also in the entire Midwest as well. What sets us apart is that we are all locally owned, independent and most certainly Original!” says Youngers. “Our mission is to offer our customers more variety, more passion, more flair and much more love and care than any of our corporate competitors. In Kansas City, if you want to eat well and eat local, then you want to dine at an Originals member venue.”

Le Fou Frog

Another major focus of the KC Originals is community involvement. Local restaurants like local bookstores, hardware stores and coffee shops support their communities. The dollars spent in local restaurants stay in Kansas City and local restaurants support vital local charities. Greg Morey, who serves the Originals group by coordinating advertising and marketing says “the group as well as individual restaurant owners and staffs are very committed to making an impact in supporting a wide variety of charitable agencies.” Some hold food drives for specific neighborhood churches or organizations like Operation Breakthrough. Several support Harvesters. Over the years, the group has helped sponsor major events like KCPT’s “TV Dinner” to help fund children’s programming, the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Serving Up Cures” annual event, and the annual Shadow Buddies Foundation’s “Holiday Hugs” toy drive. The Loyalty Rewards Power Card program is a great benefit offered by the KC Originals restaurants and has more than 70,000 guests signed up at this time. The diners accumulate points for each dollar spent. “Once they spend $150 at a member restaurant or at several, they earn a $10 reward bonus. These earned discounts are tracked in the guest’s account and can be redeemed for up to 50 percent off their dining bill at any member restaurant. The program is easy to join and free. It’s our way of saying thank you for continued support,” says Morey. When guests register for a Loyalty Card and provide an e-mail address, they receive e-newsletters highlighting other special events, promotions and news about all the member restaurants. “These newsletters and the KCO Carlo's Copa Room

V's

Trezo Mare

Michael Smith

web site (KCOriginals.com) alert guests to more ways to save and benefit from supporting the group, including added discount savings. The KCO also offers gift cards that are redeemable at any of our member restaurants - just like cash - and they make a perfect gift for anyone who enjoys dining out.” For 14 years, the KC Originals group has been growing slowly, adding a few restaurants each year after those restaurants are vetted. “They must apply after they have been in business for a year. We send out an evaluation team to make sure these restaurants fit. We are a tight-knit organization and even as we diversify we want to ensure that guests will have the kind of quality experience they seek,” says Youngers. “Our most successful restaurant members have been a part of people’s lifestyles, almost a home away from home. It enhances the dining experience when you are able to walk in and not only have a great meal but feel welcomed and feel almost part of a family, almost feeling like you are sitting down at their dining table. It’s one thing we look for in new member.” With the KC Originals there really is something for everyone. Have a meal prepared by a James Beard award-winning chef at Michael Smith Restaurant, or curl up for some live jazz with your meal at Chaz on the Plaza. Get spectacular views and great outdoor dining at Cafe Trio, Trezo Mare, or Marina Grog and Galley. The satisfying comforts of great Italian cuisine are available at multiple locations. The list of options goes on as the choices are almost endless. See a complete list of current members with locations on the web site. continued >

February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

KC Originals

(continued)

Current KC Originals Members

Hereford House

Extra Virgin

Pierpont's

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Aixois - Brookside Anthony’s Restaurant & Lounge - Downtown Blanc Burgers + Bottles - Leawood & Westport Cafe des Amis - Parkville Cafe Italia - Parkville Cafe Sebastienne - in the Kemper Museum Cafe Trio - Plaza Cafe Verona - Independence Carlo’s Copa Room - Lenexa Cascone’s Restaurant Charisse - Downtown Chaz on the Plaza Coach’s Bar & Grill - Overland Park, Kansas City Em Chamas Brazilian Grill Extra Virgin - Crossroads Frida’s Contemporary Mexican Cuisine Overland Park Garozzo’s Ristorante - Downtown, Lee’s Summit & Overland Park Gaslight Grill - Leawood Grinders Pizza – Crossroads & Lenexa Harry’s Country Club - River Market Hereford House – Independence, Leawood, Shawnee & Zona Rosa JJ’s - Plaza Johnny Cascone’s - Overland Park La Bodega – Crossroads & Leawood Le Fou Frog - River Market Lulu’s Asian Bistro - Westwood Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop - Crossroads Marina Grog & Galley - Lake Lotawana Michael Smith Restaurant - Crossroads Mio: An Italian Trattoria - Leawood Nara - Crossroads Ophelia’s Restaurant & Inn - Independence Panzon’s Mexican Restaurant - Lenexa Paolo & Bill - Shawnee Pierpont’s at Union Station Piropos - Briarcliff Seva Cuisine of India - Liberty Tannin Wine Bar + Kitchen - Crossroads Tatsu’s French Restaurant - Prairie Village The Jacobson - Crossroads The Roasterie Cafe - Kansas City, Brookside & Leawood Trezo Mare - Briarcliff V’s Italiano Ristorante - Independence Waldo Pizza - Kansas City & Lee’s Summit Webster House - Crossroads

Terrific Teachers

Tonya Runnels

Trevor Goertzen

Kristen Leaming

Stephanie Brachtenbach

Jean Reynolds

Brenda Colwell

Six Blue Valley Teachers Achieve Highest Education Credential Available Article Provided | Photography Courtney Long and Madi Dombrowski

ix Blue Valley teachers have achieved the highest credential available to American educators, National Board Certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). These teachers successfully completed the certification comprised of submitting a four-part portfolio of their work including student work samples, videotapes and a thorough analysis of their teaching and students’ learning. They also completed six written assessment exercises. We offer our congratulations to Blue Valley’s newest National Board Certified teachers: • Stephanie Brachtenbach, third grade teacher at Harmony Elementary • Brenda Colwell, math teacher at Blue Valley North • Trevor Goertzen, eighth grade social studies teacher at Prairie Star Middle

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

• Kristen Leaming, student resource specialist at Morse Elementary • Jean Reynolds, math teacher at Blue Valley North • Tonya Runnels, reading specialist at Harmony Elementary Sixty-nine current Blue Valley teachers have earned this recognition to date. Blue Valley has the most National Board Certified Teachers in the state. “Attainment of National Board Certification represents a significant commitment to the development of a teacher’s professional skills,” says Sue Dole, deputy superintendent of Education Services. “We applaud the efforts of this group of teachers to take their classroom practice to new levels of excellence.” This year’s newest National Board Certified teachers were recognized at Blue Valley Schools’ Board of Education meeting last month.

Tech Today

ORGANIZING YOUR DIGITAL CABINET Innovative note and to-do apps bridge desktop, tablets, smartphones Article Christopher Clark

ou’re more than a month into your New Year’s resolution (ahem, “goal”) of organizing your digital life. The first weeks of 2015 saw you blazing through task lists, organizing projects and consolidating those important meeting notes into one tidy place, right? Me neither. Fear not. There’s enough time and plenty of tools to turn this around. The productivity space is bulging with powerful apps that put your digital scraps and sticky notes wherever you are: smartphone, tablet or laptop/desktop. Three apps in particular --Evernote, Wunderlist and Workflowy -- are winning raves because they’re easy to use and work across multiple computing platforms. Regardless of whether you rock an iPhone or Android smartphone, Mac or PC, these apps and your notes are ready when you are. Evernote: As a digital filing cabinet, Evernote (Evernote. com) has huge name recognition because of its ubiquity and intuitive interface. With apps on nearly every conceivable platform, notes can be created and stored in subject-specific notebooks. Notebooks created around the same topic can be put in a “stack” for even more topical hierarchy. But Evernote’s real power may lie with tagging. Rather than organizing notes in a notebook metaphor, you can add label-like “tags” that act as searchable key words. Once you’ve created and regularly use tags (tip: start with a handful of tags and add more once you’re comfortable with searching for them) you may find it quicker to tag notes versus filing them in a proper notebook. The Web is full of Evernote tagging strategies, so a little searching will reveal a system you can customize. Whatever system you use, its success depends on actually using it. What are you waiting for? Cost: Evernote has a $5/month premium that adds a lot of power-user functionality, but the free tier has more than enough features for most users. Wunderlist: As a straightforward list-maker, Wunderlist

(Wunderlist.com) has earned a huge user base with an intuitive and gorgeous interface, along with speedy syncing across devices. Grocery lists made using Wunderlist’s desktop application sync in near-real time with your smartphone app, handy when you’re banging out a list before heading to the store. You can add time-based reminders and notes to items for setting deadlines or extra reference, both of which can turn Wunderlist into a powerful personal project management system. 40

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Cost: Like Evernote, Wunderlist starts free with features that will satisfy most users. A $4.99/month premium tier adds things like unlimited subtasks and collaboration features for sharing lists with friends or co-workers.

Workflowy: This web-based app is brilliant because it’s so sim-

ple. Workflowy (Workflowy.com) looks like an outlining service that does nothing but make lists. When you open the website you’re confronted with a canvas of white space. No notebooks, extra windows or superfluous options to distract you. Simply type a task and hit “return.” You’ve just created a list that’s ready for your next item. All lists can have sub-lists, and each of those can have their own sub-lists. It’s a dead-simple and highly navigable hierarchical approach to managing almost anything containing multiple steps or items. Clicking on the “+” or “-” symbol to expand or collapse a list is Workflowy’s lone graphical flourish, a simplicity that has earned it cult status. A Google search for “Workflowy” reveals countless ways people are using it to fit their, uh, workflows. Cost: Workflowy has a free tier that allows for 250 items per month. That may be enough for some, though the app’s get-inand-get-out functionality makes the $4.99 monthly charge for unlimited lists and items, Dropbox support and formatting options more than worth it.

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Star Students

Two Dreams Come True Two local young women took different paths that merged on one magical evening Article Lauren Collinsworth Claflin Photography Provided

ven as a little girl, Melanie Shaner loved the spotlight. She enjoyed modeling, but there wasn’t a crown in modeling, so she talked her mother into letting her enter a pageant when she was 7 years old. After placing in the top five in her first competition, Melanie was hooked. She has competed in pageants consistently since then, and still loves everything about them. Alexis Railsback, on the other hand, never considered doing pageants when she was a little girl. She spent her childhood in dance studios and on soccer fields. She had grown up watching the Miss USA pageant on television, and admired the confidence and poise of the young women who competed. However, she was extremely shy, and the thought of being on stage made her very anxious. Railsback nervously entered her first pageant two years ago, never suspecting she was starting a journey that would change her life. The two girls met in November 2013 at the Miss Kansas Teen Competition. Their dressing rooms were next door, so they spent the weekend getting to know each other, and bonding over the nerves and excitement that accompany a pageant. Both girls were semi-finalists in that competition, placing in the top 15. They returned to their normal lives. Railsback graduated from Shawnee Mission Northwest last May, and is currently a freshman at Johnson County Community College. Shaner is a senior, and a cheerleader, at Blue Valley North. Both girls, however, shared the same goal: to win the Miss Kansas competition the following year, and both girls starting preparing for that pageant much more intensely than they had before. Every day for the past year, Railsback woke up early to work out for 90 minutes before school. She followed a strict, healthy diet. She worked with coaches to prepare for the on-stage interview at the pageant, practicing answering a variety of questions every day, and making sure she was knowledgeable about current events. Shaner followed a similar regimen, with daily morning workouts before school, and a strict diet. Last November, the girls met again at the Miss Kansas Teen and Miss Kansas competition in Wichita. This time, however, they were not competing against each other, because, having graduated high school, Railsback was no longer in the teen division. 42

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Alexis Railsback and Melanie Shaner

The Miss Kansas competition consists of three sections: swimsuit, evening gown and interview. Although they were both nervous, Railsback and Shaner both did well in all three areas, and the two friends had fun cheering for each other. By the end of the evening, both girls wore the crowns they had worked so hard to earn. Shaner won Miss Kansas Teen USA, and Railsback won Miss Kansas USA. It was an exhilarating evening for Shaner and Railsback, and the culmination of a shared goal. Their hard work, however, is far from over. There is a lot of responsibility that accompanies representing Kansas. The girls make special appearances throughout the year, and attend numerous events. They also work with several philanthropies, especially Warriors for Ross. Warriors for Ross is the official charity of the Miss Kansas USA pageant. It was started in 2011 after the Elliot family lost their three-year-old son Ross to a rare form of leukemia. Warriors for Ross raises money to support the families of children fighting all kinds of cancer. In addition to their philanthropic work and special appearances, Shaner and Railsback are both still training for their next pageants. This summer, Shaner will compete in the Miss Teen USA pageant, and Railsback will represent Kansas in the Miss USA pageant, which will air on NBC. If Railsback wins, she will compete in the Miss Universe pageant next year. “It’s been so much fun to share this honor with Alexis,” says Shaner. “I’m really excited to cheer her on at the Miss USA pageant this summer!” Railsback agrees that the journey has been fun to share with her new friend. Although the two girls spend a lot of time making appearances and working for charity on behalf of the Miss USA organization, Railsback also sees how much she personally has gained from the experience. “Representing my state is such an honor,” says Railsback, “and it has had such a positive impact on my life. I’ve overcome my fear of public speaking! And I’ve learned that with hard work, confidence and dedication, you can reach your goals.”

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Driver’s Notebook

Acura’s Compact RDX is Loaded with Technology and Comfort Article and Photography Tom Strongman

ompact crossover utility vehicles are one of the hottest segments, mostly because these sensibly sized vehicles are a perfect fit for empty nesters, young couples or families with two kids. In many ways, they’re the contemporary equivalent of a station wagon and they’re much cooler than a minivan. Acura’s premium compact RDX is an excellent example of why the segment is so popular. It has most of the amenities one expects in an entry-level luxury car yet the cargo space, easily expanded by folding down the seat, is big enough for bags of yard mulch, home improvement materials or the occasional bicycle or two. The RDX styling bears a familial resemblance to the larger MDX but it is not quite as visually exciting as some of its newer competitors. That can actually be a good thing as gimmicky styling doesn’t always age well.

Base prices start at $35,790 for frontwheel drive and top out at $40,890 for all-wheel drive with the Technology Package. That is the model I drove from Acura’s press fleet. The leather-trimmed interior has an abundance of soft-touch materials, and the instrument panel is pleasingly styled. The front seats are among the best I’ve experienced because they have support in all the right places. Straightforward controls are easy to use, and the 8-inch LCD screen in the center of the dash delivers an excellent picture from the rearview camera. All RDXs have Bluetooth connectivity, a rear view camera with three viewing options, a Pandora radio interface, SMS text messaging function, dual-zone climate control and a power moonroof.

The test car’s Technology Package included a voice-activated navigation system, an eight-inch LCD screen in the center of the dash, rearview camera and the ELS 10-speaker audio package that is among the best in any car, regardless of price. The tech package also includes AcuraLink with Real-Time Traffic, a system that alerts the driver to traffic congestion and offers automatic re-routing. Real-Time Weather is also a part of the package. The RDX sits on a 105.7-inch wheelbase that is 2.6 inches longer than that of a Honda CR-V, for example, and it is about five inches longer overall. Acura is the American luxury division of Honda. The RDX is not related to the popular CR-V, other than coming from the same company. Because the RDX is taller than a sedan it is not quite as agile in corners. The upright continued >

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Driver's Notebook

(continued)

driving position gives good visibility and makes it easy to get in and out. The V-6 in the RDX delivers 273 horsepower. All-wheel-drive fuel economy is rated at 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway. The new all-wheel drive system is simpler and lighter than the one it replaces. When starting from rest, power is shifted to the rear wheels, but then power is distributed from front to rear in concert with the vehicle stability system depending on road conditions. The rear wheels are decoupled on the highway for reduced drag and better fuel economy. The transitions are seamless and done automatically. Price The base price of the test vehicle was $39,995. Destination charges brought the sticker price to $40,890. Warranty Four years or 50,000 miles with a six-year, 70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

At A Glance

The RDX is almost perfectly sized. It is big enough to haul things yet small enough to be maneuverable in urban settings. The cabin is plush and well equipped. Point:

The previous RDX had a spunky personality but the new one is a bit less sporty.

Counterpoint:

To get in touch with Tom Strongman, send e-mail to TStrongman@kc.rr.com.

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Sold Properties

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Neighborhood

Original List Price

Sold Price DOM*

Mission Farms

$2,395,000

$1,967,500

136

Tuscany Reserve

$1,450,000

$1,275,000

134

The Woods Estates

$1,145,000

$970,000

138

Highlands Creek

$1,700,000

$965,000

432

$800,000 43 60County of Johnson Real Estate 40 $829,950 80

Leawood Royse

$798,000

$750,000

Leawood Forest Estates $675,000

$665,000

Pavilions

$625,000

$589,500

150

Waterford

$595,000

$583,000

Whitehorse

$575,000

$520,000

192

100 120

*Average Days on Market

80 40 0

120

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Average Days on the Market Represents average days homes in Leawood spent on the market before contract.

2. Paint or stain cabinets rather than replace them. Update and refresh outdated cabinets inexpensively with a can of paint or gel stain using current colors: creamy whites, gray tones or dark, rich wood stains. Use high quality oil-based paint and good brushes, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still less expensive than a redo. 3. Change stairway carpet. Steps wear out and get dirty, and design trends have changed. Natural fibers like sisel and wool, or burber are popular. Choose a contrasting color or fun coordinating pattern.

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February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

February

FEBRUARY 6 & 7

February 10

Inspired For Life Women’s Conference

George Washington’s Pie

Overland Park

Shawnee Town

Have fun, meet others, enjoy fellowship, and grow in faith with as a community of women connected in UNSHAKABLE ways. Includes optional on-site dinner, boutique shopping, biggest shower ever to meet needs, special coffee blend served at conference, prayer experience, Friday after party with food and fun, Saturday mid-morning hot brunch, UNSHAKABLE stories from women, incredible musical elements. Church of the Resurrection. InspriedForLifeConference.org

George Washington loved cherry pie and… so do we! Learn how to make the perfect pie in honor of George for President’s Day. We’ll adapt a 1920s recipe to today’s baking practices. $10. 6:30-8 p.m. Shawnee Town 1929 Museum.

February 7 LEGOLAND® Building Challenge Crown Center Shops

Participants, ages 7-15, will be given 30 minutes each round to build a LEGO® model based on a set theme. Amazing prizes are up for grabs. LegolandDiscoveryCenter. com/KansasCity.

February 8 Scout Sunday Area Churches

Scouts of all ages are encouraged to wear their uniforms to church one Sunday a year as a reminder that a part of the Scout Law is that a Scout is reverent, and that Scouts promise to do their “Duty to God.” These values strengthen youth character in their family, community and faith. February 8, 1910, was the founding of the Boy Scouts of America by W. D. Boyce.

Brew Top Pub

This annual benefit for the Stephanie Vest Foundation helps fund families who have a financial crisis due to a cancer diagnosis. The high-energy event will be hosted at the Brew Top Pub in Lee’s Summit, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person, sold in tables of eight. Collect your 7 smartest friends...and build your power trivia team! Silent auction and raffle. StephanieVest.com

General Membership Luncheon & Debut Overland Park Marriott

Join your friends at the Leawood Chamber from 11:15 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Overland Park Marriott, 10800 Metcalf Ave. Featured presenter will be Kansas City Area Development Council CEO Bob Marcusse, regarding the KCADC plans for the region in 2015. LeawoodChamber.org

February 14 Gerald Albright Jammin’ at the Gem Gem Theater

The American Jazz Museum’s 2015 “Jammin’ at the Gem” concert series continues Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, with 2015 Grammy nominee, Gerald Albright. His recent nomination is for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. The saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist, composer and bandleader is one of today’s most accomplished contemporary/traditional jazz artists. He has sold more than one million albums in the U.S. 816.474.8463 AmericanJazzMuseum.org.

After Hours Networking Kansas City

Join your friends at the Leawood Chamber from 5 – 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Medical Center, 1000 Carondelet Drive, for some great networking and connecting. Details at LeawoodChamber.org Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

Pink Friday Trivia Night

February 10

February 18

February 20

February 20-22 Leawood Arti Gras Leawood City Hall

This annual juried art show and reception is presented by the Leawood Arts Council and the Leawood Foundation. The art show is open to the public on February 21 and 22. The opening night reception is February 20 from 6-9 p.m. Tickets for the reception are $10. Leawood.org

February 21 28th Annual Heart & Stroke Ball Kansas City

Save the date and buy your tickets today for the 28th Annual Heart & Stroke Ball, to be held at the Kansas City Convention Center. Enjoy a black-tie evening of festivities beginning with a pre-event reception, fabulous silent auction, elegant dinner and an inspiriing program. KCHeartAndStrokeBall.org.

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Lifestyle Calendar traction, they are having their winter bake sale. Bring a sack lunch; beverages and desserts are provided. LeawoodGardenClub.org, LeawoodGardenClub@gmail.com

FEBRUARY 25 Young Professionals After Hours Leawood

Join your friends at the Leawood Chamber from 5 – 6:30 p.m. at Red Door Grill, 11851 Roe Ave., for networking and connecting. Details at LeawoodChamber.org.

FEBRUARY 26

February 21

Leawood Sustainability SummitEVENT NAME

Taste of Hospitality Wine Tasting & Silent Auction

Lodge at Ironwoods Park

Indian Hills Country Club

The 7th annual Sustainability Summit will take place from 5-8 p.m. and will include roundtable discussions, a vendor booth open house, dinner and a program. All are welcome, especially members of local homes association boards. Tickets are $10 and include dinner. 913.663.9114

Enjoy wine tasting, a delicious meal and silent auction to benefit Friendship Inn, providing temporary housing for family members or patients receiving treatment at The University of Kansas Hospital. 6 p.m.; $250. Contact Friendship Inn, KC: 816.506.6339 or FriendshipInnKC.org.

February 24

February 28 & March 1 OLIVER! AUDITIONS

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Leawood City Hall

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The Lakewood Stage Company will hold open auditions for actors, singers and dancers ages 7-80 for their mid-July performances of OLIVER! Auditions will take place in the Oak Room at City Hall from 1-6 p.m. Leawood.org or 913.663.9157.

The Leawood Garden Club will meet at 10:30 a.m. at the Leawood Presbyterian Church, 2715 W. 83rd St. At about noon, Ed Reese will present “Birdscaping-Gardening to Attract Birds.” As an added at-

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Lifestyle Calendar

March 6 Sam Burchfield in Concert Village Presbyterian Church

Sam Burchfield’s soulful vocals and folk-influenced lyrics combine with a foundation in southern blues and funk to produce an exciting sound from this up-and-coming musician. He recently auditioned for American Idol and was chosen to go to Hollywood. VPC is partnering with Shawnee Mission East’s Coalition Club to sponsor this free concert. 7 p.m.

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Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

St Patrick’s Dinner Olive Tree, Hawthorne Plaza

Our friends at the Olive Tree started classes with Duane last March and their Irish dinner was so popular, they are doing it again. The menu includes mussels steamed in Guinness, Irish stew, champ (potatoes & spring onions), Bailey’s bread pudding and skinny ginger Irish whiskey cocktail. 6 – 9 p.m. $45

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February 2015 | Leawood Lifestyle

Business Directory Animals & Animal Care Puppy’s Playpen (913) 648-3647 puppysplaypen.com

Child Camps, Care & Tutoring

College Nannies & Tutors (913) 754-3633 collegenanniesandtutors.com/overland park

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

Dry Cleaners

Natures Touch (816) 942-3240 greenearthcleaning.com Tide Dry Cleaners (913) 534-4569 tidedrycleaners.com

Education

Mathnasium - Overland Park (913) 642-6284 mathnasium.com overlandpark

RBC Wealth Management (913) 451-3503 rbcwm-usa.com

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

Twin Financial (816) 333-2334 twinfinancial.com

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

Health & Wellness Emergent Care Plus (855) 598-1481 emergentcareplus.com

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

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

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

Reflections Body Solutions - Body Tile & Stone Warehouse (913) 432-7900 Contouring and Medical Spa tileandstonewarehouse.com (913) 322-3433 reflectionsbodysolutions.com Seeking Solace Yoga (913) 302-2439 seekingsolaceyoga.com

Home Builders & Remodelers Koenig Building (816) 457-9445 koenigbuilding.com

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

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

Entertainment & Recreation

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

Legoland Discovery Center (SeaLife) (816) 556-3234 visitsealife.com/kansascity Reno’s Power Sports KC (816) 942-8900 renoscanam.com Sprint Center/AEG (816) 949-7174

Fashion & Accessories VanBrock (913) 341-7273 vanbrock.com

Financial Services & Planning ETF Portfolio Partners, Inc. (913) 851-1100 etfpp.com

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

A&M Home Furnishings (913) 438-3868 amhomefinishings.com Design Connection Inc (913) 851-8776 designconnectioninc.com Elegant Outlook, LLC d/b/a Budget Blinds Of Overland Park (913) 402-1600 budgetblinds.com/overlandpark

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

Medical Clinics & Facilities

After Hours Pediatrics (913) 825-4700 after-hourspediatrics.com Childrens Mercy South (913) 696-8000 childrensmercy.org

Property & Real Estate

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Kansas City (913) 345-8877 goldsteinteam.com Gail G. Dicus Keller Williams Realty (913) 709-1060 gaildicus.com REMAX State Line (913) 312-3620 scottiebroderickteam.com The Kim Yuille Team (913) 558-9533 kimskeytokc.com

Restaurants, Food & Beverage Corner Bakery and Cafe (913) 766-0486 cornerbakerycafe.com EBT Restaurant (816) 942-8870 ebtrestaurant.com

North Italia (913) 232-5191 Menorah Medical Center northitaliarestaurant.com (913) 907-4393 menorahmedicalcenter.com/ Red Door Grill davinci (913) 222-4959 reddoorgrill.com Midwest Anti-Aging (913) 244-4771 midwestanti-agingkc.com Senior Living & Saint Luke’s Health South Hospital (913) 317-7139 saintlukeshealthsystem.org/ south

Other

Divorce Settlement Professionals LLC (913) 522-4859 divorcesettlementpros.com Jax Fish House (816) 437-7940 jaxkc.com

Services

CF Lane Management LLC (Villa Medici) (913) 649-5050 Snowbird Maintenance (816) 723-7439 snowbirdmaintenance.com

Travel & Leisure The Elms Resort & Spa (800) 843-3567 elmshotelandspa.com

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Parting Thoughts

A Life Well Lived Words Lisa Harrison | Photography Moose Petereson

any of our south Leawood neighbors said good-bye to a good friend and neighbor a couple of months ago. We were stunned and saddened by his sudden death, and it took us weeks to accept that he’s really gone. He was the perfect example of a selfless servant of God. He wore many hats, or nametags really, in his many years as an active member of the Church of the Resurrection, Leawood South Country Club, the Leawood Chamber of Commerce, and as the parent of Blue Valley North swimmers, a Marching Mustang and an Eagle Scout. And those of us who followed Jeff on social media knew that he loved to check in from local restaurants, to enjoy a great meal, and a fabulous glass of wine or Scotch, so it seems just slightly more fitting to honor him in this, our food issue. He was an avid shutterbug and he shared his talents and his love of photography with those of us who called him our friend. Many of us can thank him for amazing shots of our children as they dove into the pool, came up for a breath of air, camped out with the Scouts, played their horns at yet another Friday night football game and walked across the stage to pick up their diplomas. After hundreds and hundreds of us filed out of the biggest sanctuary in town, we stood around and realized that his was indeed, a life well lived. Jeff and his family loved to travel. And so they traveled. They didn’t just dream of great vacations or talk about how awesome it would be to take a golfing trip to Scotland with the golf buddies. They actually planned these trips and took them. He never missed a swim meet or a college parent’s weekend and he wasn’t afraid to put on a goofy outfit if the occasion called for it. And Jeff loved to volunteer, so he gave endless hours to organizations he, his wife and his two kids were passionate about. Yes, we stood around the lobby of the church and we vowed that we’d try to be a little more like Jeff. We’d stop planning, and we’d start doing. We’d take the time to enjoy life just a little bit more. We’d learn how to check in from local restaurants on Yelp. We’d count our blessings and we’d be sure to give back. Cheers to you Jeff Flottman. We miss you and we’re glad we called you friend.

Leawood Lifestyle | February 2015

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162nd and Kenneth road

overLand ParK, Kansas

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river ridge Communities specialist Lettiann@Lettiann.com | www.Lettiann.com | 816-898-5477