Lee's Summit Lifestyle January 2014 by City Lifestyle

january 2014

Lee’s Summit LeesSummitLifestyle.com

™

Warming Up

the winter home

Giving Back: Friendship House Shop and Dine in Greenwood

Weekend in Jefferson City

LET’S DO

LAUNCH

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Editor's Letter

How Will You Make a Difference This Year? I

f you’re reading this publication, it’s likely that you and I have several things in common. We don’t have to worry about where we’ll get our next meal. Our basic needs are being met and we’ll go to bed in a warm, safe and comfortable home tonight. What a wonderful blessing! I continue to wonder if I’ve done enough to teach my two boys about how blessed they are. How the years of hard work, careful planning and wise decision-making by two parents has not always been easy, but it is why they live the way they do and have what they have. Do they understand to whom much is given, much is to be expected? That they need to look for opportunities to give back? What about you? As the New Year begins, have you taken time recently to reassess how you’ll make a difference in the world around you this year? As an individual, and even as a family? The very best way to teach our children and grandchildren about being charitable is to lead by example. Don’t just write a check and put it in an envelope or fill a bag with cast-offs and set it out on the front porch to be collected. Instead, show your children, grandchildren, friends and family what’s important to you by rolling up your sleeves and volunteering on a regular basis. If you don’t want to do it alone, invite a friend or neighbor to join you. With volunteerism, the more the merrier is an absolute given! Most school-aged children can earn impressive service awards by volunteering a certain number of hours in a year. Encourage your children or grandchildren to choose one charity and focus their attention on it for many years. They’ll have the opportunity to build relationships and learn more about how the organization works if they visit more than just a time or two. They’ll find out what the organization really needs and may set out to complete a project to help meet that need. Before you know it, they’ll learn how to really make a difference. Pick an organization that touches your heart. Are you passionate about children or babies? Literacy initiatives? Animals or veterans? Finding a cure for a specific disease? Your volunteerism will mean more if the mission of the organization is one you believe in wholeheartedly. Before you give your support, please do the responsible thing and do your homework. There are too many organizations out there raising money and claiming to do good, when in fact they do very little to distribute the money and goods they collect. Celebrity-backed charities are a dime a dozen. Don’t assume that a famous face supporting or leading a charity means it is more legitimate than others. Ask a few questions about the percentage of money earned that goes to administrative costs and about how much has been given away in the past few years. You may find that it’s better to give directly to a national organization rather than a local, celebrity-backed offshoot that supposedly supports a national organization. You’ve got a year of giving ahead of you. Go out there and make a difference! I’ll see you around town. join us

Lisa Harrison, Editor Lisa@LifestylePubs.com on the cover Floral and styling by Andrea K. Grist Floral Designs. Photography by Amanda Jones with Freeland Photography.

| LeesSummitLifestyle.com |

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

advertising director | Mike Baugher production coordinator | Christina Sandberg graphic designers | Sara Minor, Cyndi Vreeland executive assistant | Lori Cunningham contributing photographers Amanda Jones, McKenna Mathewson, Tom Strongman, Trevor Hawkins

contributing writers Lisa Allen, Ann Butanes, Andrea Grist, Judy Harper Goppert, Kendra Mathewson, James McKenna, Rebecca Murphy, Todd Natenburg, Tom Strongman, Elizabeth Rosenberger

senior web developer | Lynn Owens it director | Randy Aufderheide Published monthly, subscriptions are also available for $22 for 1 year, $39 for 2 years by visiting LeesSummitLifestyle.com

by Community ™ Proverbs 3:5-6 Contact us at: 10500 Barkley, Suite 228 Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | LeesSummitLifestyle.com Lee’s Summit Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Kansas City’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 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

YOU RIGHTFULLY EARNED IT.

NOW RIGHTFULLY KEEP IT. Looking to keep more of your income and cut your taxes? Then tax-free municipal bonds* may be for you. * Bonds may be subject to state, local or the alternative minimum tax.

Call or visit your local financial advisor today. Thom Schlosser, CFP® Financial Advisor

Kevin Haines 192Advisor Northwest Financial .

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Oldham

559 SE Melody Lane LeesMOSummit, MO Lee’s Summit, 64063 816-554-9077 816-525-0770

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Member SIPC

Matt Knehans, AAMS Financial Advisor

Thom Schlosser, CFP® Financial Advisor

120 SW 2nd Street Ste. 102 816-554-0074

192 NW Oldham Parkway Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 816-525-0770

kevin.haines@edwardjones.com

matt.knehans@edwardjones.com

thom.schlosser@edwardjones.com

Anne Pedersen, CFP® Financial Advisor

Matt Sibbing, AAMS Financial Advisor

Financial Advisor

615 NE Woods Chapel Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 816-554-7446

1255 NE Rice Road Suite D Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 816-347-8375

400 SW Longview Blvd. Ste. 250 Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 816-761-1045

anne.pedersen@edwardjones.com

matt.sibbing@edwardjones.com

tom.wilson@edwardjones.com

Stephen White Financial Advisor

Ryan Barber, AAMS Financial Advisor

3540 SW Market Street Lee’s Summit, MO 64082 816-623-9946

801 NE Lakewood Blvd. Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 816-478-0053

steve.white@edwardjones.com

ryan.barber@edwardjones.com

64081Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

Tom Wilson

January 2014

Departments 12

Good Times

Around Town

Our Contributors

Your Neighbor

Parent’s Corner

Family Feature

30 Hometown Hero 32

Hot Spot

Real Wives

Healthy Lifestyle

Financial Fitness

48 Giving Back 50 Field Trip 52

Locally Owned

54 Now Open

40 The Winter Blues

Decorating your home for the rest of the season.

Driver’s Notebook

Sold Properties

60 What’s Cooking?

44 Video. Motion. Photo. Audio. Branding.

Animal Tracks

Lifestyle Calendar

See who’s behind the incredible work by this local media company.

66 Parting Thoughts

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downtownls.org DOWNTOWN LEE’S SUMMIT

Custom Bedding, Pillows, and Draperies

downtownLS.org FEBRUARY

8: Chocolate Crawl

MARCH

7-9: Spring Open House 15: Emerald Isle Parade

APRIL

5: Farmers Market Opens 19: Downtown Bunny Hop

FOURTH FRIDAYS

Fourth Friday of the month from March to October: Explore Downtown for Art, Music & Theatre Events

FARMERS MARKET

7 a.m. to sell-out Wednesdays & Saturdays from April 5 through November 29

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Henry’s Antiques Collectibles Tearoom

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Good Times

Mantles & Martinis Benefits Special Olympics and New Longview Foundation

Thanks to wonderful sponsors, designers and guests, a beautiful evening raised funds for two fantastic charities. Gracious hosts and Special Olympians greeted visitors with warm hearts on a cold and fun night.

Terrific Turnout for Turkey Trot 5K

Nearly 1,000 participants helped Our Lady of the Presentation far exceed their goals with this fundraiser. Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit Social Services got a surprise $10,000 check as a result of the amazing participation by our community.

12 Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

visit cityofLS.net for complete event details

Celebrate the Dream...

In the words of Dr. King, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” The City of Lee’s Summit’s Human Relations Commission invites you to come celebrate with us and see what we can do together as a community. Join

HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION

us on January 20, 2014 in the Pavilion at John Knox Village, 520 NW Murray Road, Lee’s Summit and meet Kansas City Royals Hall of Famer Frank White.

LAND CLEARANCE FOR REDEVELOPMENT

“TakingAUTHORITY Strides to a Healthier You” Events Health Screenings

Wealth Management

Healthy Body/Healthy Brain

•

Dental, Eye, Hearing, Blood Pressure and

Financial Planning

LEE’S SUMMIT 360°

Fitness Activities (All ages)

Glucose (Free) •

Mammogram and Prostate screenings

HEALTH EDUCATION ADVISORY BOARD

Yours Truly, HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION

LIVABLE STREETS

Community Celebrates Superintendent of the Year

A community reception honored our own Dr. David McGehee as the Missouri Association of School Administrators Superintendent of the Year for his leadership, vision and accomplishments for the R-7 School District. Congratulations, Dr. McGehee.

Dr. McGehee with Missouri Rep. Sheila Solon.

Dr. McGehee with Jackson County Legislator Bob Spence.

Dr. McGehee during the reception.

Sen. Will Kraus and Sen. Jason Holsman with Dr. McGehee.

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment 816.554.6166

We’re by your side so your parents can stay at home. Whether you are looking for someone to help you or a loved one a few hours a week, or need more comprehensive assistance, Home Instead can help. • Companionship • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping

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14 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

ExactlyWhatYouHadInMind.com

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Let’s face it, at our age we think we’ve learned a thing-or-two about life. We know just what we want and frankly, we refuse to settle for anything less, especially when it comes to our individual real estate needs. At Baird Group Real Estate we believe that when it comes to our client’s residential or commercial real estate needs, just good is not good enough. We’re here to make sure you get exactly what you had in mind.

Yours Truly,

BairdGroupRealEstate.com | 816-524-1923

SAVE THE DATE 2014 Bingham-Waggoner Events

March 15, 2014 27th Annual Spring Luncheon & Fashion Show Theme: Crystal Fantasy Noon - 2:00 pm Reservation required $25.00 June 7, 2014 18th Annual Breakfast on the Trails 7:00 am - 10:00 am Live music Reservation required $9.00 - Adults $6.00 - Kids under 8 July 12, 2014 27th Annual Antique & Craft Fair 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Free Admission September 13, 2014 Independence Uncorked! Winefest

Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Eastern Independence

On the grounds of the Bingham-Waggoner Estate 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm $20.00 in advance $25.00 at the gate September 20, 2014 33rd Annual Pig Pickin' Chicken Lickin' Feast 4 pm - 7 pm Live music Reservation required Mansion tours available $15.00

November 28 December 30 2014 (except Dec 23, 24 & 25) Spirit of Christmas Past Mon - Sat 10 am - 4 pm Sun 1 pm - 4 pm $6 all adults $3 Youth (6 - 16)

Call 816-461-3491 www.bwestate.org

313 W Pacific Ave, Independence MO

December 7, 2014 Twilight Tour 4 pm - 7 pm Live music & complimentary refreshments $6 all adults $3 Youth (6 - 16) We will also have at least one evening called Music on the Lawn, which is a free to all event.

Around Town Love and Logic Parenting Course Offered Lee’s Summit CARES in cooperation with the R-7 School District is offering Parenting the Love and Logic Way from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, January 14 through February 11 at Pleasant Lea Elementary School, 700 SW Persels. The course includes an updated curriculum. Parents will learn fresh ideas for putting an end to arguing, whining and backtalk as well as helping their children learn to listen the first time. Love and Logic provides parents with practical and proven strategies for raising children who are respectful, responsible and fun to be around. Cost is $42 per participant, and previous participants will pay just $10 for the new program manual. Scholarships are available to families who live within the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District boundaries. For more information visit LSCARES.org or call Bev Hatley at 816.347.3259.

they had collected too much from trick or treating. At the same time, the students were providing soldiers with tasty sweet treats. Second-graders won the competition with 1,174 pieces of candy donated. Overall, Pleasant Lea collected 5,208 pieces of candy that are being donated to Operation Gratitude.

Summit Christian Academy Ranked in Top 10 Private Schools The Kansas City Business Journal has ranked SCA at the number nine spot for the Kansas City-Metro area private schools. SCA was ranked 9th in the 2012 rankings as well. “We are honored to be recognized among the top schools in the Kansas City area,” says SCA Head of School Linda Harrelson. “With a mission of inspiring students to achieve their God-given potential through excellence academics in a Christian environment, we are proud of our students and graduates who fulfill this mission. As we enter into our 25th year in 2014, we are thankful that we have been able to impact the lives of so many students.” The List, Kansas City Business Journal’s annual compilation of private schools, determines school rankings based on fall enrollment figures submitted from each institution. Various other characteristics are also noted, including student teacher to ratio, tuition, and academic curriculum. In the teacher/faculty category, SCA was ranked at #7.

Now Open in Lee’s Summit

Under New Management

Lee’s Summit Medical Center recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Neuroscience Institute with Lee’s Summit Chamber members at a ribbon cutting event.

The Jazzercise Center of Lee’s Summit may be under new management starting in 2014, but the fun and workouts are as great as ever. Choreographed to today’s hottest music, clients get an exciting mix of dance, yoga, Pilates, kickboxing and strength/toning exercises that can burn up to 600 calories in an hour. Whether your goal is to lose weight, improve your cardiovascular health or just spend some time with friends, Jazzercise of Lee’s Summit is the perfect pressure-free environment. Find your strength and take steps toward wellness. Daycare is available for select classes at a minimal charge. Come check out several New Year’s specials from January 9-14 at 450 SW Ward Road. Start for free and your EFT starts in February with a 1 year commitment ($85 value).

Students Collect Sweets for Soldiers Students at Pleasant Lea Elementary recently collected candy as part of a “Sweets for Soldiers” project organized by sixth-grade student leaders Sophia Wald, Anna McKee, Sopia Spallo and Katie Spallo. The four students organized a competition among grade levels to see which grade could contribute the most candy for the soldiers. They saw this as a win-win opportunity. Students were able to donate candy they were allergic to, didn’t like or because their parents thought 18 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

LSNHS student winners included (from left) Jessica Gardner, Robert Williams & Lance Lanier.

LSNHS students capture awards at FCCLA Conference Lee’s Summit North High School students recently captured awards at the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Conference. The event brought more than 2,800 of its student leaders, members and advisers together to participate in the largest of three regional conferences – known as National Cluster Meetings - being held around the country this fall. Lee’s Summit North High School students competed in skills competition. Lance Lanier earned first place in knife skills. He was awarded a trophy and an $8,000 scholarship for Sullivan University. Jessica Gardner and Robert Williams competed in the culinary math competition. Jessica placed first, also earning $8,000 in scholarship monies for Sullivan University. Robert placed second in culinary math and was awarded $5,000 in scholarship monies for Sullivan University. All three students are members of the two LSNHS culinary teams that will be competing in January for Region 14 FCCLA STAR Events.

LSHS Among Newsweek’s Best Lee’s Summit High School was recently selected for recognition in Newsweek magazine’s annual America’s Best High Schools feature. The magazine selects the top 2,000 public high schools in the nation each fall, and LSHS was one of just 23 Missouri high schools receiving the honor this year. A total of six high schools in the Kansas City metropolitan area were ranked among the 2013 America’s Best High Schools, according to Newsweek. The selection is based on components such as graduation rate, college accep-

tance rate, Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/career education scores and enrollment, and average SAT or ACT scores.

Students Capture Awards at Journalism Convention Lee’s Summit West High School students competed against more than 2,000 students at the Journalism Education Association/National Scholastic Press Association National High School Journalism convention in Boston. LSWHS students capturing awards were Nate Mitchell, superior rating, graphics, photo illustration; Danny Poeschl, Bailey Hamilton and Geena Conrad, superior rating, on-line news package; Meg Britton-Mehlisch, excellent rating, commentary writing; and Hayden Hulver, excellent Rating, graphics, logo design. Honorable mention awards went to Michelle Stout, sports photography; Hailey Skinner, newswriting; and Jesslyn Jakobe, magazine illustration. The LSWHS Quiz Bowl team of Anna Poudel, Meg Britton-Mehlisch, Nate Mitchell

and Hayden Hulver successfully completed the qualifying test to be ranked in the top 16 teams to compete in lightning rounds. The students were accompanied by Carol Ullery, Titan Scroll advisor, and Karrie Smythia, broadcasting advisor.

Toy and Miniature Museum Awarded Grant The Missouri Humanities Council has awarded a grant of $10,000 to the Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City in support of the creation of a plan to improve exhibition of the museum’s antique toy collection. The new plan will greatly enhance the museum visitors’ experience by highlighting individual collection objects; weaving interpretation into the exhibits; and providing context and stories to help visitors connect with the collection and the people, places, and times in which the objects were made and used. The Toy and Miniature Museum will close for renovation on January 6 and will reopen in early 2015 as The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Choir Supports Jonas Borchert Family The Pleasant Lea Middle School Black and Gold Choir performed “Fight the Fight,” a song written to assist R-7 student Jonas Borchert and his family. Jonas, currently a student at Lee’s Summit High School, attended Pleasant Lea Middle School and has been battling Ewing’s Sarcoma since 2011. After a period of remission, Jonas’ cancer has returned. “Fight the Fight” was written by LSHS sophomore Jordan Hoffman (also a former PLMS student) at the request of Pleasant

Jonas Borchert and Jordan Hoffman are pictured with teacher Holly Dahn at Pleasant Lea Middle School.

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January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 19

Around Town

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time. Because they need a little help, you have a big problem. Because they want to live their lives without your control, you’ve lost control of yours. We’re here because of all of that. Here with a helping hand when

Lea Middle School music teacher Holly Dahn. Jordan was also recognized at the concerts. All funds raised through digital sales of “Fight the Fight” will be used to assist the Borchert family. The song may be purchased through CD Baby, iTunes, Google Play or Amazon by searching for “Jordan Gabriella” or “Fight the Fight.” You may also visit JordanGabriella.com/ singles/25-ftf for more information.

Edward Jones Partners With National WWI Museum Financial-services firm Edward Jones announced a partnership with the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial in Kansas City, Mo., continuing its long-standing commitment to support military veterans. Edward Jones has been awarded exclusive naming rights for the Museum’s Research Center and the Museum’s Centennial Flag Program. “We are honored to be a significant sponsor of this fine institution honoring the men and women who served in the First World War,” says Jim Weddle, managing partner of Edward Jones. Edward Jones is nationally recognized as a leader in offering career opportunities to military veterans. The firm was named a winner for the 2013 Most Valuable Employers for Military by CivilianJobs.com, as well as received recognition from G.I. Jobs, earning a spot on the 2013 “Military Friendly Employer” list and Military Times EDGE, ranking No. 43 on the 2013 Best for Vets ranking.

it’s needed, with experienced healthcare

Kansas City Restaurant Week

professionals when called for, with caring

Kansas City Restaurant Week returns January 17 – 26 for what is anticipated to be the most successful event yet as it enters its fifth year. More than 100 restaurants have enrolled for the 10-day dining event. The Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association and the Kansas City Convention & Visitors Association continue to make preparations for the week and more restaurants are anticipated to enroll leading up to the event. Kansas City Restaurant Week benefits Harvesters, KC Regional Destination Development Foundation and The Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.

comfort and a full calendar of opportunities for a full, rich life all day, everyday. We’re here so that both of you can enjoy your lives and each other, getting more out of both. You do the living your way, and we’ll help in every way we can.

KC Star Announces Printing of USA TODAY

12101 East Bannister Rd • Kansas City, MO 64138

The Kansas City Star is pleased to announce it will begin printing USA TODAY for the Kansas City market. The contract includes a Monday through Friday edition of USA TODAY as well as Sports Weekly. Printing is scheduled to start at The Star’s Press Pavilion on January 20. “We are proud to partner with USA TODAY to produce their work on our state-of-the-art presses,” says president and publisher Mi-Ai Parrish. “The Kansas City Star’s Press Pavilion is a leader in regional printing, producing more newspapers daily than any other in the area.” The Star’s press plant, at 1601 McGee, opened in 2006 and houses four KBA Commander presses. The Star prints 35 different products, including The Wall Street Journal, The Lawrence Journal-World and Topeka Capital-Journal.

Just 2 miles from Lee’s Summit

Toyota Launches TeenDrive365

Assisted living at SummitView Terrace, the way it ought to be.

SummitView Terrace assisted living by Americare

www.americareusa.net • 816.763.6667 20 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

The first year a teenager gets their driver’s license will be one of the most dangerous of their lives and while cars today are safer than ever,

automobile crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers. This is why Toyota launched TeenDrive365, a driving safety platform to help families navigate the critical first year of a teen’s independent driving. The initiative aims to help foster an ongoing dialogue between parents and teens through engaging online tools, expert advice and tips, local events and social media. One of TeenDrive365’s goals is to inspire parents to model safer driving behaviors for their teens. This premise of bringing parents and teens together to encourage safe driving is based on scientific research from a national study Toyota conducted with the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. The study found a significant correlation between how parents and their teens drive, suggesting that parents are the biggest influence on how a teen will behave behind the wheel. For more information visit TeenDrive365.com.

“When it comes to alcohol, it’s my job to help them think. Not tell them what to think.”

Practice Your Penmanship January 23 is both National Handwriting Day and John Hancock’s birthday. In honor of this unique coincidence, consider taking the time to write a handwritten letter to a friend, loved one, local editor or a favorite teacher on or around the 23rd of the month. As schools across the nation consider the value in teaching cursive handwriting to our children, do your part to keep the art of handwritten correspondence alive.

Knowing what to say—and how to say it— can help prevent underage drinking. As our kids get older, it can be tempting to “lay down the law” about alcohol. But that’s not always the best way to prepare them for the real-life peer pressure they’re facing. It may be time to start asking more open-ended questions that encourage them to reflect and think through situations that involve alcohol. By helping them become independent thinkers, we can increase the chances they’ll make the right decision when it matters most. To learn more, join us on Facebook and download our free Parent Guide.

January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 21

Closing Date: 12/10/13 QC: CS Pub: LS Lifestyle

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The Open Range Fellowship offers an Equine Outreach for horse-loving kids ages 5 and older to experience quality instruction in Relational Horsemanship and build confidence and character for a successful life. Year-round sessions are offered, tailored to fit each child’s needs, including: basic riding and horse handling, developing relationship-building skills, fun Bible study and scripture-based learning, guidance from a personal discipleship relationship. Schedule your session today. Private or group sessions available. As low as $30 per 90 minutes. Contact Emily at pacasnponies@yahoo.com or call at 816.560.8535. Located at Ransomed Heart Ranch, 204 E Casey Rd in Lone Jack. Weather proof with Indoor & Outdoor Arenas, weekday and Saturday sessions available.

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Our Contributors Kendra Mathewson

I have an adventurous, artistic spirit. People are like worlds we can never possibly discover everything about, but it’s fun to explore who they are and then, like a travel journalist, attempt with words to describe a glimpse of a piece of that world. To me, numbers are a foreign country but words are home. I enjoy the journey of finding the right words amidst the chaos of being a mom of two kids, attempting to run a household and enjoying a ski on Lake Lotawana when I can. And thanks to Freeland Photography for the great headshot! Elizabeth Rosenberger

My grandmother used to say “If you find something you love to do, then you’ve found a sweet thing.” For me, writing is one of those ‘things.’ Writing about Lee’s Summit and the community where I live and have grown up is icing on the cookie. My husband and I have raised our two children, two dogs, a three-legged cat and a short-lived hamster here. We now have the joy of watching our grandchildren grow and thrive in this wonderful city. Between writing, you can catch me at big and little league games and enjoying Longview Lake. Ann Butenas

A Kansas City native, I grew up in Prairie Village and currently reside in south Overland Park with my husband Ed and our three teenage boys. A graduate of Shawnee Mission East, I later attended Baker University for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Although I lived

briefly in Los Angeles and in Dallas, this is home and a great place to indulge my love of running with all of the available nature trails in Johnson County. I’ve been a professional writer since age 12 and have also authored a few books and am currently pursuing a motivational speaking career. Judy Harper Goppert

I enjoy the outdoors, especially warmer weather, running and water activities. I recently married a wonderful man and have an athletic teenage son who will graduate from LSHS in May, and a lovely daughter who is getting married, also in May. My life is filled with the extraordinary stories of many intriguing lives in our great community. Sharing their successes in Lifestyle magazines brings them much deserved recognition, and I take pride in being the messenger. I graduated from Missouri State University with a BA in writing, and when not working on deadline, I spend time around our park-like acreage and beautiful pool, and boating on the lake. Tom Strongman

Almost every morning, as I walk my neighborhood with our dog Pete, I see my daughter driving her kids to school or my son or daughter-in-law hauling their children. We are blessed beyond words to have our family so close. I work from home as a freelance writer and photographer, and I have everything that I love within a 1.5-mile circle. I snap iPhone photos of beautiful ponds or autumn leaves. Our neighbors are friends and our friends are neighbors whose warmth and welcome provide an anchor for everyday living. Leawood is large, but its feeling is intimate.

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Claude Monet, French (1840–1926). Railroad Bridge, Argenteuil (detail), 1874. Oil on canvas, 21 3/8 x 28 7/8 inches. Philadelphia Museum of Art. John G. Johnson Collection, 1917, Cat. 1050.

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Local Author Writes About the True Meaning of Love Article Judy Harper Goppert | Photography McKenna Mathewson

love you. Those are the three words babies hear the moment they are born. The three words that mothers, fathers, grandparents, aunts and uncles say to the children in their world. LaTonya Samuels has written a book, What Does Love Really Mean? with that exact idea in mind. The book’s main characters are based on LaTonya’s children. “The inspiration behind my writing has been my three beautiful children, Kendall (11), Madison (8) and Jackson (6), says Samuels. “The name of my company, The Angel Face Kids LLC, was also inspired by them as this is what their grandmother called them when they were babies, ‘Angel Face.’” Samuels came up with the idea for the book in December 2008. She and her husband, Jarred, were anticipating the upcoming year by spending time looking over their accomplishments as a family, the development stages of each of their children, both academically and personally, and their family goals for the upcoming year. She revealed that while they were discussing ways to become better parents for their kiddos, the thought occurred to them that

24 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

they wanted their kids to know what love REALLY means. The descriptions of love came to her after that conversation. “I initially used the descriptions of love to teach my children by placing notes around the house to help start their day,” she reflects. “A few months later I thought this is something that’s not only beneficial for my children but for the next generation as a whole.” So, she began writing. Her son, Jackson, is the main character in the story but each of her children is represented. “I knew all I needed was one person to see my vision and it would be a reality,” she says. “In November 2012, I reached out to a local publishing company and the owner contacted me to schedule a meeting. What an amazing feeling it was to have someone interested in hearing about my vision.” The book was published in June 2013 by a local publisher, Purpose Publishing, located in Grandview. Samuels says the owner, Michelle Gines, was truly a blessing to her life and great to work with throughout the process. Her illustrator, Isella Vega, actually lives in Indonesia. Although on different time zones, she said the two were able to keep the process moving along seamlessly.

“Isella worked while I slept and I worked while she slept,” Samuels explains. “My goal was to make this book one that all families could relate to by using illustrations that were not only vibrant and inviting but also relatable. My vision was to build the characters of the story around my family, in terms of personalities, look, style, etc. I provided the illustrator with references for the book, for example, pictures of the family in action, personality traits, favorite colors and activities. I wanted to make this a family project and each one of us was involved.” The finished product is a very engaging children’s picture book that captures the eye of children and adults alike. One of Samuels’ favorite things about the book is the discussion guide at the back. It allows parents, grandparents and educators to use the book to facilitate conversations with their kids. Samuels grew up in the area, and graduated from Shawnee Mission Northwest High School. She earned an associate’s degree in business management from Johnson County Community College, then a bachelor’s degree in human resource man-

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agement from American Intercontinental University. She and Jarred have been married 13 years and have lived in Lee’s Summit for the last ten years. “Becoming an author has not only allowed me to share my visions with the world but it has also allowed me to encourage others who have big dreams,” she says. “It’s inevitable that life will somehow get in the way of your dreams. This is not only supposed to happen in order to teach us along the way but when life gets in the way it also allows us to share, teach and encourage others with our story. Character building is something we will continue to work on. We are not perfect but as a family we’re striving for excellence and being the best we can be.” Visit The Angel Face Kids website and blog at TheAngelFaceKids. com for book information as well as free fun activities for children on character building. The book has already received great reviews from online booksellers. It is also downloadable on Amazon.com. Be on the lookout for future books highlighting other character traits coming soon.

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January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 25

Parent’s Corner Help them focus on strategies that work best for their personality. Have confidence that your child can cultivate these important skills but it will take time and patience on your part. Look at this as a lens of opportunity to make a real impact on your child’s future. Allow yourself to be surprised by the techniques your child will use to problem solve when given the chance. Steps to consider when problems arise: Identify and define the problem.

When your student states the problem in his/her own words, it will allow you to ask questions of clarification which can help generate problem solving potential. What you perceive as the problem might actually be different than their version of the issue. Gain additional information about the problem.

This might include detailed observations, collection of data, and identification of any barriers. Some people make decisions based on factual knowledge while others will defer to creativity and insight. Help your child identify potential solutions.

Have You Helped Your Child Develop Their Problem Solving Potential? Article Rebecca Murphy

enjamin Franklin said there were only two things certain in life: death and taxes. As a parent and educator, I subscribe to another certainty. No matter how old you are, where you live, or what you do, life is about solving problems one at a time. Everyone can benefit from a well-developed set of problem solving skills so it’s never too early to introduce and reinforce the concept. Problem solving is required at every stage of life and is the foundation of self-reliance. When children master hurdles and obstacles, they will develop patience, perseverance, better peer relations, coping strategies for use in sports or activities, achieve greater academic success, and establish overall emotional health. It’s extremely uncomfortable to see our children in turmoil so our natural instinct is to relieve their discomfort by using our knowledge and experiences to solve their problems. We must be careful not to allow our youngsters to become dependent on us deciding how to handle their difficulties. It is easy to shut down their level of resourcefulness when they can count on us to do what must be developed within themselves. This will be especially important for those kids whose current response to problems is to avoid and fold. When your instinct is to resolve, take a deep breath and think of yourself as a coach guiding your child through the development of problem solving. It is important to respect that you child’s approach may be different than your own. 26 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

To maximize on the evolution of this important process, work to find three or four solutions to the current issue. Two solutions might reflect a good and bad choice where three or more ideas results in more sophisticated choices and actual problem solving. Introduce that seeking the advice of others can be beneficial as it provides different points of view and opens up the possibility of additional solutions. Making a Decision

Discuss the pros and cons of each possible solution. Don’t rush your child and allow them to fully process the potential consequences of each option. Value their analysis and support their decisions. Implementation and Feedback

Support your child in their ability to execute on their problem solving decision. Initially it may take extreme courage to follow up on a difficult choices or attack complicated situations. When the condition resolves itself, it’s important to seek feedback. What worked and what didn’t work? The best problem solving is where you learn from your mistakes and do not repeat them. Imagine your student arrives at home with a disappointing mark from school. Rather than take away privileges or impose punishments, problem solve about the difficulties. Give your student the chance to explain, without judgment, what they perceive to being the stumbling blocks to their success. Identify how they are currently approaching the subject and allow for honesty about what is working and what is not. Rather than tell them how it’s done, brainstorm a set of approaches that might help their situation. Allow yourself to see beyond the obvious and get their insight. Encourage them to problem solve and evolve in their understanding of the subject. Give them the encouragement not to repeat their usual mistakes but to try something new until they get the results they want. Life will always be chaotic without the skill of problem solving. With a little practice and the right attitude, it can be one of the biggest enablers of growth and opportunity. Rebecca Murphy is a 30-year veteran educator of the Shawnee Mission School District.

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Family Feature

Meet the Johnson Family Blended by marriage, bonded in love Article Elizabeth Rosenberger Photography Provided

rioritize. Respect. Encourage. Enjoy. Create. Joke. These are all verbs that Beth and Joe Johnson use in the dynamic of family. And although joining the realm of empty nesters is soon on the horizon for the Johnson’s, the foundation of family that this Lee’s Summit couple has laid while raising five children will be the ties that bind them together for the future. Whether they are juggling their careers or juggling schedules for their combined family, Beth and Joe have managed to make it work. This Lee’s Summit couple both work a few miles to the west in Leawood, but their jobs rarely allow them to carpool to work. Beth works as the director of membership for the Leawood Chamber of Commerce and Joe is the director of public works for the City of Leawood. Married in June of 2000, they have spent the past 13 years blending their marriage into a family that’s bonded by love. Beth remembers the exact date when they met. “Joe lived in Lee’s Summit and I lived in Springfield,” she explains. “Mutual friends introduced us in December 1996. I had two children and at the time Josh was 2 and Haley was almost 4. Joe had three of his own; Jaycie was 4, Jared was 6 and Jake was 7. I wanted to be very cautious about who I met because of my kids.” The couple dated for six months before the children were introduced to each other. Beth says they wanted to be certain that the

28 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

relationship was solid. And when they met, Beth says it was like they had been family all along. “I drove up from Springfield with Josh and Hayley because Joe was throwing Jaycie, a birthday party at his house,” Beth recalls. “When we pulled in the driveway, the boys ran out, ripped open the doors, unsnapped Josh from his car seat and carried him into the house. Jaycie ran around the other side and opened the door to meet Hayley. She grabbed Hayley and they didn’t let go of each other all night. And so it began…We got together with the kids almost every other weekend for a year and decided to take this journey, all seven of us, and create a new life together.” Beth moved her gang to Lee’s Summit where Joe already lived and enrolled her children at Longview Elementary School. Beth says the community is family friendly and feels fortunate for the education they have received here. But blending a family has its challenges, especially the size of the Johnson’s. The secret? “No blurred lines,” Beth says. The Johnson’s have worked hard at respecting each other and prioritizing what’s most important to them. They have treated each other’s children like their own, with the understanding that there are other people involved in their lives.

For instance, when the holiday season rolls around, instead of celebrating on ‘the day,’ the Johnson’s celebrate when the family can all come together. When the kids were growing up and all living at home, Beth says they had the boys and Jaycie every Wednesday and every other weekend. Instead of worrying about when they didn’t have the kids, they chose to devote their energy to when they were together. “Every Wednesday night we all sat down for dinner together and started our own traditions,” Beth says. “Cooking for five kids is very challenging and I don’t really cook so in an effort to simplify my life I had each kid write down their favorite meal and put it in a bowl then I would draw for which meal we would eat the following Wednesday. The rule was you had to eat whatever was chosen because your turn would come.” Today, Jake and his wife Abi have blessed the family with a new baby, Avery. Jared is working full time and both girls are freshman in college. Hayley is at UMKC and Jaycie is attending the University of Nebraska on a soccer scholarship. Josh is a junior at Lee’s Summit West. Their family has expanded but the Johnson’s have risen to the challenge. As new in-laws and grandparents, they apply the same principles they used when raising the kids. They also find themselves on the road traveling to Nebraska to watch Jaycie play as a starting freshman on the women’s soccer team. Beth also uses social media to keep up with their busy lives. “I joke with the kids that I stalk them on social media but really it is to just find out things I may not know,” Beth says. “As a parent, you sometimes would like to know if you did or are doing a good job. When I see tweets or Facebook messages from the kids to one another, I look at Joe and say we did something special by bringing these kids together.” The Johnson family remains close even though their large family has all taken different paths. Beth proudly admits, “We are family in every way but blood and that’s what it’s all about.”

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January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 29

Hometown Hero

early in his career

today

Thank You Badge #8306

Article James E. McKenna | Photography Provided

everal weeks ago I had the opportunity to spend some time on the golf course with Lee’s Summit Police Chief Joe Piccinini. Mark Twain said, “Golf is a good walk spoiled.” Well, on that day, we walked, played some golf and laughed a whole lot. Anyone who plays the game knows that you can tell a lot about a man the way he conducts himself on a golf course. I can assure you that Joe Piccinini is the real deal. A guys-guy as they say. Fun to be around, has a wonderful sense of humor that immediately puts you at ease and always the perfect gentleman. Days later we learned that after more than 30 years service, Chief Piccinini would be retiring. A life-long resident of Lee’s Summit, he began his law enforcement career as a probationary officer for the Lee’s Summit Police Department back in 1983. Hard work and

30 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

determination were the foundation of his career, and he rapidly moved up the ranks, serving as a police officer, master police officer, sergeant, sergeant II, captain and major. “Chief Piccinini is highly regarded professionally by his peers locally, regionally and nationally and is seen as a person of integrity, compassion, equity and fairness,” says Lee’s Summit City Manager, Steve Arbo. “He is one of those rare leaders that can think strategically while empowering others to support the mission of the organization. When I hired him, his mission was to reduce crime and make the community a safe place to live, work, visit and raise a family. I have enjoyed watching him reach this goal.” As a direct result of his leadership, Chief Piccinini and his staff have accomplished several major milestones for the City:

• Initiated a “Community Policing” concept that places an emphasis on relationship building and problem solving through personal interaction between police officers and citizenry. • Led the department to become nationally accredited, receiving the highest standard of excellence from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. This places the Lee’s Summit Police Department in an elite class—the top 4 percent of all law enforcement agencies in the entire country. • Reduced major (Part 1) crime offenses in the city, to a five-year low. (Part 1 includes the worst-of-the-worst crimes including homicide, rape, robbery, assault, burglary etc). Chief Piccinini has an impressive educational background as well. He graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va. In addition, he holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Central Missouri. Mayor Randy Rhoads credits Piccinini as a great leader. “The City of Lee’s Summit has been recognized as one of the safest suburbs in the United States,” he says. “This doesn’t happen by accident; it takes great leadership. Joe Piccinini has provided our community with that leadership.” His powerful sense of community pride has led him to serve on several community-based boards and committees including Community of Character, Lee’s Summit CARES, LS Character Council and Rotary. “I’m very proud of our Police Department, our officers and the quality of services we provide our citizens of Lee’s Summit,” says Piccinini. “It’s been an honor to serve the community where I have lived my entire life; it has been my family’s home, and I look forward to living right here for a long, long time.” Chief Piccinini is one of the major factors why Lee’s Summit is a place that people are proud to call home. And in the end, isn’t that what community is all about.

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Hot Spot

Greenwood Country Tea Room Shop for the House, Stay for Lunch

Article Kendra Mathewson | Photography McKenna Mathewson

eople have been enjoying the tea room inside the Greenwood Antique Mall for 28 years, so when the original owner retired recently, a collective sigh of relief could be heard all round that someone was taking it over. With a slight name change (adding “Country” to it) and an ever-so-subtle décor upgrade, Greenwood Country Tea Room has retained its original charm and delicious food and is absolutely a wonderful stop for lunch or a break while antiquing and shopping for home. This place is special for us. My daughter and I have been coming to the Tea Room for 10 years, including celebrating her arrival into the teen years there with a mother-daughter luncheon with friends in the back room. The first thing we noticed was how light the room felt. Previously the walls in the front room were black, but now a soft, golden yellow enlivens the environment, and the former black is recalled through complementary, rich accents of that color in the toile curtains, antique chairs and table cloths. Most of our visits through the years were to enjoy a treat of their famous sweet potato fries and deep-fried green beans with requisite special sauces. So, we were particularly curious to see if these were still going to be offered. Upon initial perusal of the

32 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

new menu, disappointment set in: no fries or green beans. The owner explained the reason for the missing items was due to health department regulations the previous owner didn’t have to contend with. So reluctantly we kept open minds and, *spoilers* after we took our first bites of our meal, we promptly forgot the old favorites and embraced our new ones. The new owner is a familiar name and face to Lee’s Summit. Brenda Barner ran Henry’s Tea Room for years, and owning her own restaurant was a long-time dream. She creates the selections off the cuff, no recipes, all from scratch. The new, expanded menu will actually change seasonally because Barner believes it is fun to come back and try new things. You won’t find daily specials here, rather more like monthly specials, and always gluten free, carb-friendly and vegetarian options. A few staples will also be available regularly: a quiche of the day, and hot apple spice and black currant tea are delicious regulars that can be counted on for an afternoon spot of tea. I chose a crustless artichoke quiche on the menu the day we dined, and it was scrumptious—made with whole eggs, cream, Swiss cheese and served with a crispy side salad. ($8.25) McKenna liked the description of the gluten-free entrée turkey Panini

sandwich—sliced roasted turkey breast, marinated artichoke hearts, provolone cheese on a hearty multigrain bread grilled to perfection, which she said was an understatement. She’s a vegetarian though, and they readily subtracted the turkey for her; she said it was the best sandwich she’d ever eaten. (I don’t take offense, cooking is not my thing.) Hers also came with choice of salad or soup, and she quite enjoyed the potato soup. ($11.95) Brenda’s daughter, Vanessa Fahle, served us our wonderful lunch on creamy white Farberware Trellis china. Delightfully satisfied with our delicious lunch, we decided we’d definitely be back. But after eating desserts, our new favorites were solidified and we became confirmed addicts. Desserts are always made fresh daily. My turtle cheesecake was perfectly thick and just the right amount of sweet. McKenna’s 7-layer chocolate cake with raspberry mouse and chocolate ganache frosting was so moist, and as delectable to the palate as the name is long. These masterpieces in generous portions are only $3.95. To give you an idea of other types of

items offered, the menu also included a ribbon tea sandwich on fine textured bread with layers of curried chicken salad and egg salad with a choice of soup or salad ($8.50), and a smoked salmon salad blend of mixed greens with grape tomatoes, carrot curls, red onion and diced cucumber topped with 2 oz. of smoked salmon and a cup of soup on the side ($11.95). Afterward we enjoyed perusing the Greenwood Antique Mall. It’s been around nearly 30 years and is one of the largest in the area with 56 booths. The variety and constantly changing offerings ensure fun finds every visit. Book lovers both of us, we took some time this trip finding an antique book to try a new art journaling idea. We plan to return in April for their garden show featuring vintage garden items, as well as flowers and plants. Greenwood Country Tea Room’s new owner has artfully retained the heart and feel of the old, while beautifully incorporating her own spirit and bringing wonderful new things to the place. Tough shoes to fill, well done.

Details

Greenwood Country Tea Room 502 W. Main Greenwood, MO 64034 816.537.8434 GreenwoodCountryTeaRoom.com Hours:

Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Reservations not required, but appreciated.

January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 33

Real Wives

introducing

Erin Little real wives of Lee’s Summit

LSL What’s on the floor of your car right now? EL Fruit snacks. Not the whole package…whatever didn’t end up in

my girls mouths...yet. LSL What is your favorite ‘pamper yourself’ or splurge item? EL This momma loves a good massage…it takes away the stress for

a few minutes. LSL What is your guiltiest food pleasure? EL Anything Italian made by my mom. She learned from the best,

her mom, and it is always authentic old school Italian…so yummy. LSL How would your best friend describe you? EL Loyal and loving. LSL Where was your best vacation ever? EL Last summer in Colorado. We had all the family together. My

husband, kids, parents and even my cousins, aunts and uncles. It was just the way I like—full of family and fun! LSL What’s the best thing about living in Lee’s Summit? LSL Who/what lives in your house?

EL Although Lee’s Summit has grown SO MUCH in recent years, I

EL My husband, my18-year-old step son, our daughters Ashlyn (3),

still love that it feels small and connected.

and Allie (2), and two Boston terriers, Max and Molly. LSL What do your record on the DVR? LSL Do you work outside the home?

EL My guilty pleasure—Housewives of ANY city!

EL I am a meteorologist at KMBC 9 NEWS. It’s still crazy to me that

I get paid to talk all day about the weather (which I love…weather… and talking!)

LSL Do you have a favorite sports team? EL That’s easy—Sporting KC! I have been a soccer fan since I played

with Lee’s Summit Parks & Rec at age 5! LSL Are you a native Kansas Citian or were you transplanted to the area? EL Kansas Citian all the way! I grew up in Lee’s Summit, went to

LSL What is your purpose or mission in life?

LSHS (when there was only one high school in town!), and then off to MU for college. Go TIGERS!

EL To be as good a mom to my kids as mine was to me.

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Healthy Lifestyle

These Are Not Your Mother’s Moisturizers P

arched skin plagues us every winter, and though it’s tempting to swap lightweight lotion for heavy cream and call it a day, it’s time for something different. How about a hydrator that creates a veil of H2O on skin, and feels lighter than water? Or a body emulsion that rebalances skin’s pH after a cold weather workout? Or a creamy mask that illuminates dull skin with light reflective minerals? Here are three products that promise to do all of that and more for your winter skin. Amarte Aqua Veil Hydrator: This cucumber-infused serum optimizes hydration by releasing droplets of pure H²0 onto the skin to form a protective veil. A toner and serum in one, it gives skin a silky, youthful radiance with an ultra-light finish that can be used along layered under other products to help retain their moisture, too. $65 at AmarteSkinCare.com or DermStore.com 36 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

Sebamed Derma-Soft Wash Emulsion: Traditional soap is way too alkaline for our skin and creates that dry, tight feeling. This emulsion is the winter alternative. It’s balanced at pH 5.5 (the same pH as healthy skin) and counteracts damage from windburn, redness, chapping and irritation by optimizing skin to protect itself from dehydration. Helps treat common winter skin conditions like eczema and premature wrinkling. $22.95 at area drugstores, including CVS, Rite-Aid and Bed, Bath & Beyond or SebamedUSA.com Repêchage Hydra Dew Illuminating Cream Mask: The natural light reflecting minerals in this seaweed-based moisture mask leave dry skin illuminated and virtually flawless. The trick – Don’t wash off with water! Leave a thin layer on for 10 minutes (or overnight for deep conditioning) and tissue off. Pat away excess with a damp cloth. $33, Available at Repêchage.com.

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Financial Fitness

New Year’s Resolutions Who Says They Can’t Be Achieved?

ome on, we all do it. We will make a New Year’s resolution to get in shape, make more time for ourselves, save more money… you get the picture. Our intentions are good, it’s the follow thru that we have a hard time with. So change it up this year. Don’t look at your resolutions as an all or nothing proposition. Break them down to baby steps. Think of things you can do today that will ultimately get you to your goal. At the top of many New Year’s resolutions there is one that deals with finances; saving more, paying down debt and improving your credit score are some examples. Again, create a plan to start making changes to the little stuff that will help you build the foundation and allow you to reach your goals. Here are some suggestions. • Check Your Insurance Rates – Paying your auto or home insurance is a routine occurrence. You get the bill, you pay it. Often times, the rates increase and you don’t even realize it. This is the perfect time to get out your policies, so you are comparing apples to apples, and call around for new quotes. Insurance companies want your business and you might be surprised at how much you could be saving by switching insurers. Most insurance companies offer discounts for multiple policies (car, home, etc.). If this applies for 38 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

you, make sure you are getting that discount and use it as leverage in negotiating with your current provider. • Check on Your Retirement Plan - If you have a company-sponsored 401(k) plan, make sure you’re enrolled and contributing enough to get the full company match. Consider increasing your deposit to this account by one percent; you will be surprised how little this would affect your paycheck but could make a significant difference when you retire. If you don’t have a company 401(k) plan or want to save more for retirement, consider an Individual Retirement Account. Also, use this time to make sure you are happy with your investment choices and if necessary, make changes. • Update your tax profile – The tax code changes yearly and you could be paying too much or too little. You can go to the IRS website (IRS.gov), and use their tax withholding calculator to get an esti-

mated tax for this year. It will tell you, based on the information you provided, how much you would owe or get refunded and how to adjust your withholding. If you find that you need to make changes, ask your employer for a new W-4.

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• Track Your Expenses – Make a commitment for the next two weeks to write down where you are spending your money. You might be surprised at how much you are nickel and diming yourself. If you find your spending is out of control, give yourself a cash allowance for eating out, entertainment and any other “extras” you might be purchasing. • Put Your Utilities on a Level Payment Plan – With the winter cold surrounding us, your heater is getting a workout and your gas bill is skyrocketing. Call your utility provider and ask about their level payment plan. They will evaluate your usage for the past year and average that out over the 12 months, providing you with the ability to better budget for these costs. The benefit is that you have the same payment every month and won’t be surprised with a large bill. May is a good time to call your electricity provider to get on their level payment plan before the heat of summer and high electric bills. • Plan for the Holidays – Time goes by quickly; look how fast last year went. This is the perfect time to plan for this year. Determine your budget based on what your spent last year. Examine who you are buying for, food, travel, entertainment, decorations, postage, etc., and start saving. If possible, start shopping now. It will give you time to look for deals as well as purchase that perfect something without all the holiday stress.

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725 NW Commerce Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 39

The

Blues January feels like the month of “So now what?”

Words Andrea K. Grist Photography Freeland Photography

40 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

he holiday season is coming to a close and we often find ourselves both relieved and slightly melancholy at the same time. The packing up of all of those treasured holiday decorations can cause our homes to feel empty and cold, and spring seems many months away. Winter is a time to rediscover what we love about our own homes. Families often spend more time inside during the winter months so it makes perfect sense to decorate for the frigid cold of January and February and bring some of the best of the outdoors inside.

Along with the fresh smells of evergreen branches and organic elements like pods, pinecones and nuts, find that cozy corner where you can curl up with a good book and embrace your own home as a place to relax and rediscover. Our team shot on location at the home of long-time Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit residents Carl and Amy Johnson. Carl is the owner of Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Outfitter and Marine and Amy is the founder of The Noticed Network. We thank them for allowing us into their home.

Winter Blues Contributors Andrea K. Grist Floral Designs AndreaKGristFloralArt.com Freeland Photography FreelandPhotography.com Henry’s Antiques HenrysAntiques.com Momentarily Yours Events MomentarilyYours.com Raising the Bar Liquors/ Top Shelf Bartending KCTopShelf.com/ RaisingTheBarKC.com

January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 43

video. motion. photo. audio. branding. Turning the camera around to see whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behind the incredible work by this local media company. Article Kendra Mathewson | Photography Trevor Hawkins

44 Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

There’s this guy I know. If you passed him on the street or stood in prehistoric wooly creature that sounded cool with its alliteration line behind him at The Whistle Stop downtown, you might not even next to “media.” They aren’t out for attention; rather, attention notice him. He’s average height, brown eyes, brown hair, wears jeans, seems to find them. tennis shoes, usually a hat, looks like a regular young dude. He’d defiAttention from companies like McDonald’s. Bass Pro. AMC nitely flash his big smile at you because he’s a friendly bloke. You’d Theaters. Hostess. Remington. On the Border. The Chiefs. Price likely mistake him for a skateboarder, and you’d be right though he really doesn’t have as much time to do that as he’d like anymore. I dare to predict at a minimum you’d never guess that he was a world-traveling, highly-sought-after, successful filmmaker. Trevor Hawkins’ story is remarkable. But then again, so is he. In the span of about 10 years he went from being a high school kid playing around with his mom’s VHS camcorder filming his friends skateboarding in the street to a being the man behind a successful television show and traveling the world with a Red Epic (movie-grade camera) as a professional making videos for companies and governments. Never mind film school, skip slaving as a gopher for a big movie company, go straight to own-your-own and be-paidto-do-what-you-love. That’s crazy. That’s the stuff of dreams. But that’s what happens when he’s busy just being himself and doing what he loves. He is passionate about life and about filming it. Trevor realized his passion when getting into wakeboarding as a teen. “I remember the feelings I felt when I watched wakeboarding videos for inspiration,” he says. “That is what made me want to try.” And from the These amazing photographs are portals into the world as Trevor Hawkins sees it, and helps us to see it. If we turn the camera around to him, what do we find? moment he put a camera in his hand, serendipity took over. He followed his heart and greatness found Chopper. Nitro Performance Bass Boats. Bushnell. Beck’s Beer. him. What started out as freelancing with friends became a com- Red Bull. Nectar Sunglasses. Westrock Coffee. And even a counpany called Mammoth Media, now located in a second-story stu- try: the Rwandan Tourism Department. Mammoth has done dio in downtown Lee’s Summit. awesome work for all of them. “There are five of us working full time on all sorts of TV shows, How did this momentum get going? commercials, whatever we get paid to do,” says Trevor. “I didn’t create Mammoth; it just happened,” Trevor says. AfBut you won’t find the name “Mammoth Media” on any signs. ter graduating from Lee’s Summit North in 2004, he was going to As large as that name makes it sound, it’s actually a small local school at Longview and working at Best Buy. company with no aspirations to become big, a name solely based “All the while people kept asking me to film things. I did two on the owner’s enjoyment of the irony and his love of the giant or three weddings fresh out of high school and have never done a continued >

January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 45

video. motion. photo. audio. branding. (continued)

wedding since. But one year I got two big clients, one was AMC Theaters because I have a friend who worked there and he told them what I was capable of doing,” he explains. The next incredible thing that just happened was Heartland Bowhunters (HB), a TV show that documents the adventures of the team as they bow hunt across the Midwest. Mammoth got hired to film the second season that achieved industry acclaim. Mammoth helped bring a different format and production quality standard to outdoor television and they even innovated a tool that helped them attain beautiful, breathtaking footage. The award-winning HB is now in its sixth season. “I’m not a hunter but my guys in HB hunt respectfully,” explains the animal-loving Trevor. “I like the show; what I create is on a different level than most outdoor programs.” And it was because a Rwanda-based coffee company executive saw and loved HB that he hired Mammoth, and that led to a connection with the president of Rwanda who wanted Trevor’s team to help their tourism department promote the country, and he found himself hang-

ing out the side of a helicopter over the panoramic vistas of the country while filming herds of giraffes and elephants. “Being my own boss, getting to do what I love to do, I got to live my dream of shooting wildlife in nature, I got to go in the wild and film gorillas with nothing in between us,” says Trevor with his classic chuckle. “It’s fun how it all worked out, I guess.” In true Trevor style, it wasn’t the official video he did that became a hit (now playing in the Kigali International Airport for arriving visitors). It was the unofficial video he made of the country the way he saw it that drew attention. View it at Vimeo.com/57465392. At such an early point in his career already, the future is limitless for Hawkins. He’s working on some creative projects that would take him beyond the world of corporate and commercial videography. “My goal is to be filming my own feature film by age 30,” he shares. This young man has a special dynamic. People just like him. Maybe it’s his awe of life, his open posture to the world. He accepts what comes, enjoys the present moment always with an easy chuckle and often laughs at himself, holds life loosely yet

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appreciates it deeply. A student of life, he values relationships, is observant and perceptive of details, interplays and grace. His films are just like him, not to mention that he and his team have an intelligent, innate grasp of the technology and how to best utilize it, which must be why all it takes for a company to want to hire them is watching one of their pieces. Just as he accepts what life brings in his own, when he holds a camera up to the world he is not trying to make something

happen, he is trying to capture the beauty and truth of what is already there. The awe he has for life translates through his artistic medium, which for him is moving and still pictures. Mammoth films do not feel like commercials; they feel expansive, like movies. “Just find something you’re passionate about, and it will come,” he encourages. “Follow your heart, find something you’re passionate about and greatness will find you. Don’t create something artificial. Don’t be someone you’re not. “American filmmaker Terrance Malik cherishes his human relationships and does what he loves because it makes him happy. Writer/ philosopher Dan Dennett says the meaning of life is to find something that’s bigger than you and devote your life to it. Jack Johnson says everybody’s so worried about everybody else they don’t know anything about themselves. I say, ‘Tune out the world, follow your own heart.’” Check out MammothMedia.com to see for yourself the big things this little company is doing. And what it looks like when a guy like Trevor Hawkins follows his own heart. Then let’s all thank his mom, Elizabeth, for letting him play around with her video camera years ago.

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Giving Back

A Dream Makeover Friendship House Restores and Revives Dignity Article Elizabeth Rosenberger | Photography Provided

n Hyde Park sits a historical mansion made of brick. On the outside, its beauty captures the essence of an era gone by. On the inside, the 6,000-square-foot home now undergoing renovation, will capture dark secrets and lost dreams and turn them into a path shining with hope and healing. ReDiscover is a nonprofit community mental health agency that has served the people of Jackson County for more than 44 years and offering a full spectrum of programs and services for people whose lives have been affected by serious mental illness and/or substance abuse. Services range from short-term interventions and crisis services to long term relationships for people with chronic conditions. As clinical director of Substance Abuse Services, Marsha Page-White oversees ReDiscover’s Substance Recovery and AltCare programs. She says the mission of ReDiscover’s Campus at Friendship House and Catherine’s Place is simple and sincere. “It’s important that families are kept together while mothers are receiving treatment from alcohol and substance abuse,”

48 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

Page-White says. “The children of these clients receive loving day care at the childcare center at Catherine’s Place.” Marsha has been with ReDiscover for the past 18 years. She started as a counselor in 1994 and transitioned to program manager of Alt-Care when it started in 1997. In 2007, she assumed her current position. In 2009, ReDiscover purchased Friendship House and Catherine’s Place from Women’s 12 Step, an organization established by co-founders Judith A. Janes and Carol S. Patterson. The program provided transitional living for women in recovery. ReDiscover programs at the campus include: • Safe, drug and alcohol-free residence • 24-hour on-call staffing • Childcare center • Group program on strengthening families/ treatment of mother/child relationships • Prevention education for children Once through the program, clients are grateful for the structure and find it a won-

Back Row: Carl Vaitl, Jo Ann Field, Kate Sunderland, Kay Callison, Tiffany Carlson, Christine Jenkins/ Front Row: Eileen Vaitl, Rob Robinson, Whitney Sunderland, Alan Flory, Angela Andresen Smart

derful benefit when so many years of their lives had been without boundaries and filled with chaos. Built in 1900, Friendship House is now getting a ‘Dream Makeover.’ When the work is complete Page-White says they will be able to house more women in recovery as well as their children. From the vision and generosity of Mary Carol Garrity, owner of Nell Hill’s, the dream is to restore Friendship House to a beautiful, warm home for women to recover from substance abuse with their children. “All of the women in our residential program are currently living in Catherine’s Place,” Garrity says. “Once the restoration is complete - estimated to be in the spring of 2014 - the Women and Children’s Campus will become a fully integrated, holistic, multi-dimensional transitional living and childcare facility.” Garrity became enamored with the beautiful old structure and committed to help Re-

Discover furnish and decorate the restored home. “Mary Carol suggested ReDiscover ask other designers to join with her to donate their time, talent and treasure to create a beautiful, homey residence,” says Page-White. “She suggested that once Friendship House Dream Makeover is complete, we host a public tour to raise money for programs and awareness.” Along with Garrity, six Kansas City top interior designers have joined the cause, including HGTV Design Star Jennifer Bertrand, Katy Sullivan of Katy Sullivan Designs, Alan Karlin of Alan Karlin Design, Diane Goode of Deep Woods Rustic Décor, Sherry Hayes of Razzberry Wimzy and Sallie Kytt Redd, ASID. Bertrand, who is designing the whole top floor and the stairway leading up to it, has a committee of volunteers helping her pull it off. Her design goal is to make it feel happy and chic.

“It’s amazing how your environment can affect the way you feel,” Bertrand says. “I want these women to feel valued and loved. Not only that, but to remind them this is just a small moment in their life’s journey and it doesn’t define them.” In May, ReDiscover is planning a three-day public tour for the Friendship House Dream Makeover. Marsha says exact dates are still to be determined depending on construction completion. For the beautiful mansion on Gillham Road, it may be a much needed ‘Dream Makeover,’ but for the women and children who come to stay, the humanity and dignity that’s restored in their hearts and souls is the dream come true. If you would like to donate your time or talent in the restoration of Friendship House or if you know of a family struggling with addiction and alcohol abuse, visit FriendshipHouseKC.org or call 816.756.1578.

Angela Andresen Smart, Vice President, Hall Family Foundation, Alan Flory, President, ReDiscover; Christine Jenkins, ReDiscover Development Director

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January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 49

Field Trip

Destination Jefferson City History Comes Alive in Missouri’s Capital

Article Lisa Allen | Photography Courtesy of the Jefferson City CVB

on’t tell my kids, but I sometimes judge a weekend away by whether or not we’ve tried something new. It could be an activity we’ve not done before or meals eaten in places other than chain restaurants; to me, taking them away from home means stepping outside our comfort zone, if even just a tiny bit. Our recent trip to Jefferson City ranked high on my approval list for many reasons. First, it’s a reasonable drive from our home in Kansas City, and the city itself is easy to navigate. Second, it’s filled with hometown treasures that are unique and just different enough to be fun, but not so eccentric that my sometimes-picky kids immediately decide they aren’t interested. After our brief time there, it’s easy to see why the city won the “most beautiful” small-town category in Rand McNally’s 2013 Best of the Road competition. As the capital city of Missouri, it seems remiss to spend any time in Jefferson City and not visit the Capitol building. We opted for the 45-minute guided tour, and the kids were thrilled that the tour focused on the art found inside the building and the history of the state of Missouri rather than actual legislative sessions. They loved how the tour guide helped them see that one painting looked like two different pieces of art depending on the angle from which it is viewed, and I was mesmerized by the collection of stained glass, murals and carvings that depict elements of Missouri history. 50 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

Our favorite part of the Capitol, however, is the four wall mural in the House Lounge. Titled “Social History of Missouri” and painted by Missouri native Thomas Hart Benton, the mural depicts vivid scenes of everyday Missouri life and angered legislators who wanted to downplay less appealing aspects of the state’s history. Using the mural as a roadmap, our tour guide brought to life the state’s rich agricultural roots, its struggles with slavery and its religious fervor. Our other favorite attraction in Jefferson City was the Missouri Penitentiary Tour. Named ‘The Bloodiest 47 Acres in America,’ by Time Magazine, the prison opened in 1836 and was once the largest prison in the United States, housing 5,200 inmates at its peak. Once “home” to such infamous characters as “Pretty Boy” Floyd, “Sonny” Liston and James Earl Ray, the penitentiary served Missouri as the oldest prison west of the Mississippi River for more than 168 years. It closed in 2004. Now, former guards lead daily tours that are filled with not just history but first-hand accounts of everything from the dire state of its cafeteria food to contraband weapons to reported ghost hauntings in various cells. My boys especially enjoyed the first hand stories our tour guide shared, of the conversations he’d had with inmates and the details he disclosed about the day-to-day life inside the penitentiary.

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Our trip was also full of good food from locally owned restaurants. Not far from the Penitentiary is Prison Brews, a kitschy, casual and unique brewpub. We enjoyed the rustic beer bread and cheese, the smoked brisket sandwich and their flatbread pizza but the real standout was dessert. Their BIG cookie, an oversized chocolate chip cookie baked in the wood fired oven and topped with ice cream and chocolate sauce, was a hit with each of my three kids. We enjoyed dinner at Canterbury Hill Winery and Restaurant. Lovely enough to satisfy my desire for a glass of wine but friendly enough to accommodate the kids, we shared a variety of fresh salads, creamy pastas and a divine prime rib sandwich. There was live music on the patio the night we visited; nice enough to hear indoors, but not so loud that we couldn’t hear each other talk. The place we’ll likely return to each time we pass through the area is Central Dairy. With an interior that looks like it’s frozen in time from the 1950’s and dozens of hard scoop ice cream flavors on the menu, it was a fun and tasty way to round out an afternoon of shopping in the newly revitalized Old Munichburg neighborhood. Home to historic Busch’s Florist, New Munichburg recently unveiled another landmark mural, this one unveiled earlier in 2013 and done by Jefferson City artist Jim Dyke. His work depicts buildings of the past that no longer stand, present day buildings and a veritable host of characters whose stories weave together to shed light on the rich and proud history of Jefferson City. Truth be told, there are enough attractions in Jefferson City to keep us busy for more than just a few days. Tours of the Governor’s Mansion, a stroll through Carnahan Memorial Gardens, and a day at Runge Nature Center top my list for our next trip through Missouri’s capital. More information is available at VisitJeffersonCity.com, MoCapitolTours.com, MoPennTours.com and OldMunichburg.com.

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816.795.8848 January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 51

Locally Owned

Referrals Speak Volumes Carter Real Estate Group Builds on Tradition of Service Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography McKenna Mathewson

f our lives are the sum of all the choices we make, then when you choose Chris Carter, owner of Carter Real Estate Group with Keller Williams, to handle all of your residential real estate needs, the end result is truly a winning situation. With more than 87 percent of his business coming from referrals alone, he must be doing something right. Carter began his real estate career in 1993. Growing up in a real estate family, it was already in his blood. His father has been a licensed broker in his home state of Illinois since 1972; his uncle was a custom homebuilder; and his mom was a banker specializing in finance. “I more or less gravitated into the industry and found out how much I love to help people, which is what this business is all about,” says Carter, a 1994 University of Miami-Ohio graduate who relocated to Kansas City in 1995. Whether you are looking for a $25,000 lot or a multi-million dollar home, Carter Real Estate Group is at your service. This dynamic team has a decided passion for 52 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

all that they do and continually strive to not only be the best in the industry but to deliver the best in customer service to each and every one of their clients. With vast experience in helping both buyers and sellers, these experts are specialists in all that they do. However, Chris Carter is more than just a real estate agent. He is a problem solver and a smile giver. He simply enjoys helping people and it shows in everything he does. “Buying or selling a home can be a stressful time,” Carter notes. “What we strive to do is take that out of the equation and make it exciting and fun. Together, we can accomplish a goal.” Although the firm works citywide, the group focuses most of its efforts in Eastern Jackson County, specializing in residential resale and new construction and currently markets two exciting new home communities by Sallee Homes – Dalton’s Ridge in Lee’s Summit and Parkway Estates in Blue Springs. Carter has withstood the test of time and has weathered some pretty significant

economic storms in his 20 years as a Realtor. However, by adjusting his sails, sharpening his skills and altering his course, he has mastered his craft and truly understands what it takes to achieve a client’s goals and dreams in all kinds of markets. “Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in a person’s life, and I believe a home should be a blessing, not a curse,” explains Carter. Strategically thinking, the group approaches each transaction with a decided mindset geared towards success. First, they look for good value and second, they look for a home that can be easily resold, should the client desire to do that at some point. They understand that if a house is priced correctly, there should not be much negotiating. “It is important to make a wise decision at the front end,” Carter asserts. “Be conscious of what you are buying. We want to work with our clients to ensure they are getting a piece of property that they can eventually sell and realize a good return on that investment.” To that end, it is not unusual for Carter’s clients to sell their homes faster and for more money. In fact, their list price to sales price ratio is currently at 99.9 percent. Additionally, some of the homes the group has listed for their clients have sold for more than full price. “Our approach is to simply price the property right,” he notes. As one who subscribes to the principles of best-selling financial author, Dave Ramsey, Carter endeavors to place clients in homes that best suit their needs, lifestyle and budget. While Carter does acknowledge there are always challenges in this business, he enjoys turning what can be a potentially stressful time into something exciting and fun for his clients. “We want our clients to really love their house and to be happy with the investment they made,” he says. “We love our clients and want what is best for them.” For more information, visit them at 20101 East Jackson Drive in Independence; call 816.350.4455, or go online at ChooseCarter.com.

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Now Open

Especially Jewelry A One-of-a-kind Jewelry Buying Experience Article Judy Harper Goppert Photography McKenna Mathewson

ewelry is the most personal item a person can own. The moment it is placed on a woman’s finger, around a husband’s neck or in a grandmother’s ears, the memory begins. Del and Julie Cook, owners of Especially Jewelry, live by the belief that friendship and relationships come first. “There is no pressure here,” explains Del. “This is a warm and inviting store, where people become life-long friends.” A “signature wall” and actual pictures of clients are on display in the showroom, further enhancing the experience customers have, and proof that the staff celebrates all life’s special moments with them. The business began as a little repair shop in the corner of the basement of their home in northeast Kansas City, eventually moving into Independence, where it operated for 15 years. They recently opened their store in Lee’s Summit, at 1233 Northeast Douglas, between LaFuente and Bank Midwest. “Talk about small beginnings,” Del exclaims. “As we reviewed the trends and prayerfully considered our future, it was evident that a new venue should be chosen. One night, as we were deciding to open a store, pondering a name, Julie said, ‘Everyone loves to receive a gift...especially jewelry!’ That’s literally how our name came about. Our recent move to Lee’s Summit offers more convenient access, expanded parking, and much lower overhead cost. This translates into greater value for our clients.” Alongside friendliness and fine service, they emphasize beauty and value. Now more than ever, people are in search of exception54 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

al pricing and style, combined with quality. Del brings 35 years of personal industry experience, and is a Registered Jeweler and Certified Gemologist with The American Gem Society. Also, in 2006, the store was honored as a member firm of The American Gem Society, an elite organization whose members adhere to the highest standards of integrity and consumer protection. “Our hand-selected diamonds and jewelry pieces reflect our commitment,” explains Del. “We carry several exceptional brands, including Hearts on Fire diamonds, Waxing Poetic and Charriol, a beautiful fashion jewelry line known for its ‘cable’ designs. Ideal-cut diamonds are a specialty as well. Once you’ve seen one, it’s impossible to forget the brilliance.” To complement the unmatched personal attention, the store also offers complete in-house jewelry repair services, re-mounting and custom work. The year 2014 will usher in some very exciting changes. “We are in the process of designing some new pieces, several of which will be one-of-a-kind,” Julie comments. “Our customers always find it very meaningful to own a piece that we actually made here.” They are making a shift toward more of a bespoke offering of jewelry. Del and Julie both agree that the delight of seeing a piece “come to life” at the workbench, then to become an heirloom is an incredible feeling. Julie began her jewelry career when Del realized he needed a full-time assistant. “I could not have made it without her,” Del says. “The Lord has used Julie like glue to hold all this together.” The couple recently celebrated 27 years of happy marriage, and they thrive in their everyday working environment. Both the staff and the customers are truly an extension to their family. This caring staff includes Joyce Langston, sales professional, who came to them after her years in corporate retail, and Jon Romero, jeweler and artisan, who is patient and skilled in jewelry repair and stone setting. Their daughter, Robin, and Lynne Horne are part-time associates. At Especially Jewelry, suffice it to say, you will be greeted and assisted by people that care about your individual needs, which might include anything from a simple watch battery replacement to a golden-anniversary gift. You will never be pressured to buy, and it is every staff member’s pleasure to educate and serve. To learn more, visit EspeciallyJewelry.com, or call 816.246.2184.

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Screened • Insured • Bonded

Support you need, when you need us, including: • Companionship

• Bathing / Dressing

• Meal Prep & Cleanup

• Dementia / Alzheimer Care

• Linen Change / Laundry

• Accompany to Appointments

• Light Housekeeping

• Up to 24 Hour Care

A Lee's Summit Family Owned & Operated Business

www.SimplyHomeSenior.com • 816-246-6300

Capture the Spirit of the Heart in Your Child with Dance Classes at

Heart of America Dance Centre Located in Downtown Lee’s Summit

Enroll your child in NEW Winter Classes now! • Two Tutu

Tutu Classes for Two-Year-Olds

• Hip-Hop

for Boys and Girls, Ages 6-12 If your child has previous dance experience, please contact the studio to set up a placement class.

816.554.3033 f

or visit our website www.HADC.biz

Prepare for anything from snow angels to bedtime without prices that melt your wallet. Save on gently used kids clothing, toys and equipment. Make some extra cash when you sell us the items your kids have outgrown. Just in time for cool temps. Snuggle into that. 1131 NE Rice Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 816-246-8539 www.OnceUponAChildLeesSummit.com

Buy and Sell Brands for Men, Teens, Women, Maternity, & Plus Size Including:

Buckle brands Boutique brands Victoria’s Secret Pink The North Face Madewell Sperry UGGs Toms Gucci Tory Burch Louis Vuitton Michael Kors Burberry Coach and more...

816.554.2252 613 Murray Rd Lee's Summit, MO 64051 reviveleessummit.com January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 55

Driver’s Notebook

Acura’s Redesigned RLX Shows Off its Technology article and photography tom strongman

he all-new Acura RLX arrives at an important time for the brand’s flagship sedan because Acura sold just 379 RL sedans in 2012. A new approach was needed, and thus the all-new model. One reason the RL did not sell well was because its backseat was not much bigger than that of a Civic sedan. I’m sure the ultra conservative styling didn’t help, either. The RLX addresses that issue of room with a wheelbase that is 2-inches longer, 59.6 inches of front seat legroom, 38.8 inches of rear seat legroom and 57 inches of shoulder room. Acura says this is the most rear seat legroom in the mid-size luxury segment that includes vehicles such as the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti M37, Lexus GS 350, Audi A6 and BMW 535i. The cabin is attractive and nicely appointed. The front seats have excellent lumbar support, as do almost all Acura and Honda products. Acura is the luxury division of Honda. On the road, the RLX feels pretty much like the other cars in this segment. Wind and road noise are nicely moderated. Performance is sprightly but not outstanding, and it feels solid at highway speeds. Cornering is aided by precision all-wheel steering that

56 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

makes subtle changes to the toe angle of the rear wheels to help steer around corners and maintain stability under heavy braking. The RLX has a 3.5-liter V-6 with 310 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. The base model starts at $48,450. Optional packages include Navigation, Technology, Krell Audio and Advance. The top Advance model has a base price of $60,450. Flared front fenders and LED headlights brighten up the front, although Acura’s signature beak grille remains, now in a toneddown form. Side character lines give the car a bit more visual interest, but the sagging fender line over the front wheels looks forced. The rest of the design is unremarkably conservative. Of course, it takes more than new styling and extra legroom to sell a car so Acura added a number of safety and driver-assist features such as lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, lowspeed follow, blind-spot monitor, forward collision warning, lane departure warning and collision mitigation brake system. Lane keeping assist and low-speed follow enable the car to almost drive itself in stop-and-go traffic.

A Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive model is due next year and it will combine hybrid powertrain with all-wheel drive. No details are available yet.

AT A GLANCE Point: The RLX is a step forward, especially consider-

Price The base price of the test car from Acura’s press fleet was

$56,950. Destination charges brought the sticker price to $57,935.

ing the technological features that are available. The V-6 is plenty strong and reasonably efficient, while the back seat gets much needed space.

Warranty Four years or 50,000 miles with a six-year, 70,000-

mile powertrain warranty. You can reach Tom Strongman at Tom@TomStrongman.com.

Counterpoint: The RLX feels a lot like a bigger Honda Accord with more standard features rather than a mid-size luxury model.

SPECIFICATIONS 2014 Acura RLX Engine: 3.5-liter, 310-horsepower V-6 Transmission: Six-speed automatic Front-wheel drive Wheelbase: 112.2 inches Curb weight: 3,981 pounds Base price: $56,950 As tested: $57,935 Krell Audio MPG rating: 20 city, 31 highway

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introducing tHe all-new 2014 Spyder® rt. With a new Rotax® 1330 ACE™ high-torque engine and a new 6-speed transmission, the road has never been so inviting. The high-torque response of the ACE engine gives you 40% more low-end torque and now can go up to 252 miles at 62 mph on one tank of gas.* While the new 6-speed transmission provides an incredibly smooth ride for you and your passenger. Add in a unique Y-frame design and 7 automotive technologies, and that rush you feel will be equal parts exhilaration and confidence. Learn more at 2014SpyderRT.com.

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HigHer torque. SmootHer ride. Fewer Fill-upS. introducing tHe all-new 2014 Spyder® rt.

With a new Rotax® 1330 ACE™ high-torque engine and a new 6-speed transmission, the road has never been so inviting. The high-torque response of the ACE engine gives you 40% more low-end torque and now can go up to 252 miles at 62 mph on one tank of gas.* While the new 6-speed transmission provides an incredibly smooth ride for you and your passenger. Add in a unique HigHer torque. SmootHer ride. Fewer Fill-upS. Y-frame design and 7 automotive technologies, and that rush you feel will be equal parts ® introducing tHeconfidence. all-new 2014 exhilaration and LearnSpyder more at rt. 2014SpyderRT.com. Dealer Imprint With a new Rotax® 1330 ACE™ high-torque engine and a new 6-speed transmission, the road has never been so inviting. The Goes high-torque you 40% more low-end Hereresponse of the ACE engine gives torque and now can go up to 252 miles at 62 mph on one tank of gas.* While the new 6-speed transmission provides an incredibly smooth ride for you and your passenger. Add in a unique Y-frame design and 7 automotive technologies, and that rush you feel will be equal parts exhilaration and confidence. Learn more at 2014SpyderRT.com.

10470 metcalf overland Park, Kansas mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 10-5 Closed Sun

816-942-8900

www.FireplaceCenterKC.com

913-383-2286

Dealer Imprint

www.renospowersportskc.com Goes Here ©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. *Tested at a constant speed of 62 mph. Fuel mileage may vary depending on the following: Spyder RT models, personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition, vehicle configuration and other conditions. Up to 202 miles tested at a constant speed of 75 mph. Break-in mileage may also vary. See an authorized BRP dealer for details. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Don’t drink and drive. 610812

Dealer Imprint Goes Here

January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 57

pay it forward An Investment in History is an Investment for the Future [ Annual Membership Level ]

Student..................................................$10 Educator................................................$20 Individual..............................................$30 Family....................................................$50 Business.................................................$100 Graves/Hale Society................................$200 Dr. Pleasant Lea Society..........................$500 William B. Howard Society.....................$1,000 Museum Patron ($1,000 for 5 years)...........$5,000 Legacy Society.........................................Estate Gifts Call Kathy Smith at

816-363-9718

for more information.

Lee’s Summit Historical Society & Museum “Dedicated to Sharing Our Rich Cultural Heritage”

Summit East Plaza Apartments

217 N.E. Independence Ave., Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

816.524.8222 • summiteast@sbcglobal.net www.summiteastapts.com Centrally-Located 1 & 2 bedroom apartments

Proud Business Sponsor of LS Historical Society & Museum 58 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Lee’s Summit Properties neighborhood

original list

sold $$ %sold/orig dom* bdrms full/half bath

floorplan

Cheddington

$175,000

$172,500

99%

2/1

1.5 Story

Ashton at Charleston Park

$175,000

$168,250

96%

2/1

Raised Ranch

Bordner Estates

$189,900

$190,000

100%

3/0

Ranch

Sterling Hills

$200,000

$185,000

93%

3/0

Ranch

Eagle Creek

$225,000

$221,000

98%

3/0

Raised Ranch

Summerfield

$230,000

$220,000

96%

100

2/1

1.5 Story

Ridgewood Hills

$235,000

$230,000

98%

2/1

Reverse 1.5

Fairfield Green

$265,000

$260,000

98%

3/0

Reverse 1.5

Summit Wood

$274,000

$267,500

98%

3/1

2 Story

Parkwood at Stoney Creek

$279,910

$290,239

104%

2/1

2 Story

Legacy Wood

$284,900

$273,500

96%

2/1

Atrium Split

Arborwalk

$286,895

$285,895

100%

181

3/1

2 Story

Villas of Parkwood

$289,500

$280,000

97%

126

3/0

Ranch

Raintree Lake

$295,000

100%

3/0

Split entry

Fountains at Raintree

$308,500

$318,660

103%

2/0

Ranch

Dalton’s Ridge

$309,900

$316,426

102%

3/1

2 Story

Siena at Longview

$317,000

100%

3/0

Other

Lakewood

$319,900

$310,500

97%

3/1

Reverse 1.5

$331,695

$344,526

104%

3/2

Reverse 1.5

Lakewood

Dalton’s Ridge

$335,000

$316,000

94%

2/3

2 Story

Oaks Ridge Meadows

$349,900

$342,500

98%

4/0

2 Story

Eagle Creek

$382,459

$384,828

101%

4/1

2 Story

Park Ridge Summit

$389,900

100%

367

3/0

Reverse 1.5

Paddock at Richardson Ranch

$419,000

$405,000

97%

3/2

1 1/2 Story

$471,135

100%

3/1

2 Story

$595,000

$568,500

96%

4/0

1.5 Story

Chapman Farm, The Shores Lake Lotawana

Toni Tygart

Information obtained from Heartland MLS for the period of 11/1/13 to 12/1/13. *DOM=Days on Market.

Elite

“Real Estate is my business... Lee’s Summit is my home.” 29 years of experience does make a difference!

Each office is independently owned and operated.

4243 NE Lakewood Way • Lee’s Summit, MO. 64064 office (816) 795-2500 • cell (816) 373-5558

Feature Home!

14410 Raytown Road MLS# 1838378 — $589,500

Find your next home at

www.ToniTygart.com January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 59

What’s Cooking?

Chase Away Winter Chills with Meals from Your Pantry T

here’s nothing quite like a hearty, homemade meal to help warm up those cold winter nights. And with a well-stocked pantry – or “Cantry” – Home-Style Chicken Pot Pie, are just a few cans away. Because cans lock in foods’ freshness and nutrition, stocking up on staples like canned tomatoes, green beans, peas and canned chicken means that you have access to wholesome ingredients all winter long. Plus, the more cans you store in your Cantry, the fewer last minute trips you have to make to the supermarket. So this season, when you’re searching for satisfying, heart-warming meals that you and your family can cozy up to, start by looking in your Cantry.

Heat oven to 400°F. In large saucepan, melt butter. Add onion, potato, peas and carrots and celery; sauté 5 minutes. In bowl, combine soup, chicken, rosemary, sage and white pepper; stir into vegetables. Unfold 1 pie crust; fit into 9-inch pie plate. Fill with chicken mixture; cover with second pie crust. Trim crust if needed; press edge with fork. Brush top crust with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) to create glossy crust, if desired.

Home-Style Chicken Pot Pie

Prep time: Under 15 minutes Cook time: 55 minutes Serves: 4 3 tablespoons butter or margarine 1/2 cup diced onion 1/2 cup diced potato 1 (8.5-ounce) can peas and carrots, drained 1/4 cup sliced celery 1 (10 3/4-ounce) can cream of chicken soup 1 (10-ounce) can Valley Fresh Chunk Chicken, drained 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves, crumbled 1/4 teaspoon ground sage 1/8 teaspoon white pepper 1 (15-ounce) box refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts) 60 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

Bake pie 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Bake 25 minutes longer. Cover crust with aluminum foil to prevent browning. Bake 15 minutes more. For more recipe inspiration and to learn how you can get cooking with cans this winter and year round, visit Facebook.com/CansGetYouCooking, Pinterest.com/CansGetUCooking and YouTube. com/CansGetYouCooking.

Animal Tracks

Two Buddies in Need of a Home They Can Share Article and Photography Rachel Hodgson

alty and Jonesy have come a long way from living in a hoarding situation for most of their lives. These two Retriever/Hound Mixes are both eight years old and have been living with Great Plains SPCA since they were rescued in June. Salty and Jonesy, along with thirty cats, were surrendered by a couple who realized they needed to relinquish their pets after facing medical issues. All of the pets were spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and provided with hours upon hours of TLC by our team until they were ready for adoption. Salty and Jonesy, as well as some of the cats, are still waiting patiently for their forever home. This pair is truly bonded and needs to stay together because Jonesy is blind and Salty helps him navigate the world. While some adopters may be nervous to adopt

two pets at once, the reality is that they provide twice the love and they are great companions who can help take care of each other. Salty and Jonesy currently reside at the Independence Pet Adoption Center. If you are looking for a different furry friend, please know that we have hundreds of wonderful shelter pets to choose from – a quarter of our pets are purebreds and three-quarters are “custom” mixes. If you’re not in a place to adopt, you can volunteer. We have a multitude of ways to volunteer – walking dogs, socializing with cats, cleaning kennels, working at signature and mobile adoption events and more. If you are not in a place to volunteer, your donation could help the thousands of homeless and needy pets that will count on Great Plains SPCA in 2014. Learn more at GreatPlainsSPCA.org.

Amish Handcrafted Furniture

Fine Handcrafted Furniture For your entire home!

FR NTIER

urni ure

www.FrontierFurniturellc.com

8025 W. 151st St. | Overland Park, KS | P: 913-897-8995 January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 61

January Lifestyle Calendar

Bash Celebration and Community Health Fair at the Community Center, 901 NE Bluestem Drive. The event is free and open to the public, and the facility will be open to the public. The Health Fair includes Teddy Bear Check-Up Station, free health info and screenings. The Birthday Bash includes chair massages, face painting, fitness expo and more. Visit LSParks.net.

January 16 Meet the Artist

January Ice Skating Independence Ice Center

Why not embrace the spirit of winter with a little ice skating? Check out the public skate hours at IndependenceEventsCenter.com. It’s a popular thing to do so you’ll want to arrive early to ensure they have your size of skate available. Cost for nonresidents is $6/adult, $4/child to skate, $2 for skate rental. Residents are $5/adult and $3/child. Remember to bring socks and gloves, and wear warm, layered clothing. 816.442.6128

January 5

City Hall

Hosted by City of Lee’s Summit from 5:30-7 p.m., come meet Kansas City’s own plein air painter R. Gregory Summers. Cityof LS.net.

January 17 Darol Rodrock Foundation Benefit Overland Park Convention Center

In honor of builder and developer Darol Rodrock’s 70th birthday, join the community for “I Can and I Will: A Fundraising Benefit” for the unveiling of the Foundation to benefit foster children. Dinner, auction and live entertainment including The Blue Sky Riders and Kenny Loggins. DarolRodrockFoundation.org.

Run for Rindsay

January 18

Downtown

Wassailing the Apple

Lee’s Summit High School Tiger Smart is helping sponsor Run for Rindsay, a princess-themed 5K/2K run to benefit 23-year-old Lindsay Ripley (also known as Rindsay), a 2008 LSHS graduate who is battling a rare, genetic cancer. A silent auction and “princess ball” follow the run. For more information KeepMovingEvents.com/rindsay and RindsaysArmy.com.

Trees and Dinner

January 11

Powell Gardens

Wassail! Learn about the tradition of wassailing as we sing to the health of the apple trees at Powell Gardens! Enjoy a mug of traditional wassail and feast on a country dinner of roast pig, freshly baked breads from Meadowlark Acres, assorted dishes featuring Heartland Harvest Garden produce and homemade desserts. Tickets $45/person. 5-8 p.m. PowellGardens.org

model based on a set theme. Amazing prizes are up for grabs. Level 1 Atrium. Visit LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/KansasCity

January 20 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration John Knox Pavilion

The City of Lee’s Summit Human Relations Commission invites you to the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. “Taking Strides to a Healthier You” is the theme of the 2014 event. There will be professionals onsite providing participants with information on health, wellness and financial planning to embody a “Healthy Lifestyle.” For more information about this event, call 816.969.1000 or visit CityofLS.net.

January 23 Mayor’s Character Breakfast John Knox Pavilion

Ten citizens receive the Reflections of Character awards. A citizen is awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. A business receives the Ethics in Business award. All are recognized. An inspirational speaker presents an uplifting message. And, finally a delicious breakfast is provided. 7-9 a.m. LSCares.org.

January 24 In the Looking Glass: Recent Daguerreotype Acquisitions Nelson-Atkins

This exhibition opens January 24 and highlights a commitment to the earliest form of photography, the daguerreotype. The museum’s daguerreotype holdings now range to include more than 800 pieces. Through July 20.

January 30 Arts Council Artist Reception Gamber Center

Join the Lee’s Summit Arts Council for the opening reception of their next artist. 6-8 p.m. LSArtsCouncil.net.

January 31 & February 1

Birthday Bash & Health Fair

January 18

Legacy Park

All-Star LEGO® Building Challenge

Gamber Center

Lee’s Summit Parks & Recreation, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce, will host Legacy Park Community Center’s 10th Birthday

Crown Center Shops

Roll out the red carpet for this dinner, music, dancing and more. Daughters will receive a “couples photo,” rose and goody

62 Lee’s Summit Lifestyle | January 2014

Participants, ages 8-15, will be given 30 minutes each round to build a LEGO®

Father/Daughter Dance

bag. For girls ages 3-12 and fathers, step-fathers and grandfathers of all ages. 6-9 p.m. LSParks.net.

February 1 C.S. Lewis’ The Great Divorce Kauffman Center

This journey to Heaven and Hell is a provocative exploration of human nature, featuring vivid characters drawn with Lewis’ trademark wit. The Great Divorce remains one of Lewis’ most influential pieces and rightly earns its place among classics such as The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, The Screwtape Letters and Mere Christianity. Tickets are $29 to $59. Two shows only at 4 and 7:30 p.m. To purchase, visit GreatDivorceOnStage.com, call 816.994.7222 or visit the Kauffman Center Box Office.

February 6

February 8 Light Up the World Musical Revue & Gala Emaline Ballroom

Summit Theater Group’s biggest fundraiser of the year. A full dinner buffet, silent auction and the best musical entertainment in Lee’s Summit directed by Michael Dragen. SummitTheatreGroup.com

Lee’s Summit Community Calendar Do you have a free weekend and find yourself looking for something to do? Are you planning a special event or festival? Check out LSTourism.com for a comprehensive list of community events. If your group is planning an event, check here first to

The Band Perry World Tour

make sure it doesn’t

Independence Events Center

conflict with other

Since releasing their self-titled debut album on Republic Nashville in 2010, The Band Perry has ascended to dizzying heights. Fronted by Kimberly Perry and rounded out by her younger brothers Reid and Neil, the band has notched a string of hit singles, including the quadruple-platinum “If I Die Young.” To purchase tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com.

local happenings.

January 2014 | Lee’s Summit Lifestyle 63