Continue reading »]]> Article and Photography Tom Strongman

Cadillac’s 2012 SRX has come a long way since the first generation was introduced in 2004. Along the way, a modern, more aerodynamic and certainly more stylish wrapper, has supplanted the boxy shape. The SRX cedes no ground to competitors from Acura, Lexus, BMW or Mercedes-Benz. I was impressed every time I slid behind the wheel.

The swift kick of the 308-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 is just what the SRX needs. Combined with tight handling, responsive throttle and a spacious and comfortable cabin, this energetic engine delivers driving pleasure.

Luxury crossover utility vehicles are more appealing than a sedan, especially for families who carry kids, sports equipment or DIY home goods. The styling has sharp creases that are part of Cadillac’s design language.

The 3.6-liter engine was butter smooth, with sharp low-end throttle response and very little vibration. The six-speed automatic transmission is an ideal partner because it keeps the engine in its optimal powerband most of the time.

The SRX is available in four trim levels, in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Prices begin at $35,185 and top out at $45,975.

The test car, from GM’s Texas press fleet, was a front-wheel drive Premium model. I would choose all-wheel drive for our Midwestern winters.

Cadillac says the SRX chassis was developed to balance driving dynamics with a comfortable ride, and it does just that. The suspension
system adjusts the shock absorbers in milliseconds depending on driving conditions. That enables the car to soak up bumps without sacrificing responsive handling.

The SRX wheelbase is two inches shorter than that of two of General Motor’s newest crossovers, the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain.

The SRX cabin is nicely tailored because the dash is covered with hand-cut-and-sewn material that looks rich and elegant. A navigation
screen rises from the center of the instrument panel when the vehicle is started. The instrument pod looks great because the three gauges have light backgrounds and dark numerals. The center of the speedometer contains a bright-blue display that can show a variety of items, from navigation instructions to digital speed readout.

The front seats could use more lateral support, but were otherwise comfortable.

Clever touches abound. Two small crystal-like pieces near the top of the speedometer glow when the turn signals are activated.

Bluetooth connectivity and input for an MP3 player are standard. The rear-seat entertainment center has separate screens in the back of each front seat.

The cargo space has a handy track for lashing down cargo, and a goodsized concealed storage space under the floor. The sloping roof impinges a bit on the cargo capacity.

Safety items include front, side and side-curtain airbags, along with antilock brakes, traction control and a vehicle stability system with trailer stability assist.

Price: he base price of the test car was $45,975. Options included the rear-seat entertainment system and black ice metallic paint. The sticker price was $48,740.

Warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles with a five-year, 100,000- mile powertrain warranty. JcL

To reach Tom Strongman, e-mail Tom@TomStrongman.com.

Continue reading »]]> Article Susan Fotovich McCabe | Photography Brian Turner

I’ll run down to the wine cellar to grab a bottle of wine. How many times have you heard that outside of a movie or television script? Chances are you’ll hear it more frequently as homeowners follow the growing trend of adding wine cellars to their homes.

Leawood couple Brad and Lisa Dixon had always enjoyed learning about different wines—so much so that they joined the wine club at Off the Vine in Overland Park. When they picked up their wine of the month, the Dixons noticed a flyer from design and construction firm, Complete, LLC (CompleteLLC.net). One of the company’s many specialties is the design and construction of wine cellars and cigar rooms.

“As the popularity of collecting wines increases, so does the need for proper storage techniques,” says Complete, LLC Principal Austin Chamberlin. “For wine to mature properly, it must be left to sit undisturbed for long periods of time at the right temperature and humidity. These conditions can be found in a properly planned and constructed wine cellar.”

The Dixons had considered building the wine cellar on their own, but decided the complexities of climate control and sealing it properly might be too much to accomplish on a do-it-yourself basis. After hiring Complete, LLC, for what they describe as a “painless, one week project,” they are enjoying their 10 foot by 12 foot space, equipped with two walls of wine racks, a 600-bottle storage capacity, a small window that allows guests to look inside the wine cellar and room for a small table and chairs.

“Now when we want to open a bottle of wine, we don’t have to think about it ahead of time and remember to chill it,” Lisa says. “With our wine cellar, it’s readily available. It’s great for keeping and organizing the cases of wine we buy. It even allows us to become collectors.”

Lee’s Summit couple Richard and Kris Ray decided to finish their basement two years ago and had a little extra space left over. The Rays thought long and hard about what they wanted to do with the extra space. They knew they wanted it to be different from other homes in the area. And while Richard isn’t really a wine lover, he liked the look and feel of a wine cellar, says Kris, who does enjoy wine and says a periodic glass has even lowered her cholesterol.

“It seemed like everyone around us was putting in a bathroom or an office in their finished basement and we didn’t want to do that,” Kris says. “I just kept asking myself, ‘what really makes me happy,’ and decided we should make it something we’d really use.”

The Rays 6 foot by 9 foot space features stone, cedar and tile materials. And while two walls of shelving will allow the family to store a little more than 580 bottles of wine, Kris says it’s more than just functional.

“It’s definitely an attraction for our friends and family when they come over,” she says.

According to Chamberlin, “themed” rooms like wine cellars and cigar rooms are growing in popularity, much like home theater rooms.

“Wine cellars and cigar rooms are the next generation of rooms dedicated to a certain function,” says Chamberlin, whose company designed and built about a dozen wine cellars in 2011.

Adding a wine cellar can cost as little as $5,000 for a 10 foot by 10 foot area that is already prepped for such use and can easily reach as high as $20,000 for a larger and more elaborate space. The biggest challenge in adding a wine cellar is proper sealing, tight construction and deciding on the right look and feel to suit an individual’s tastes.

Jeff and Cheryl Daniels of Shawnee are wine collectors, so they carefully chose a wine cellar that would accommodate their passion for this hobby.

“You can’t really buy more until you have a proper place to store it,” says Cheryl. “My husband’s priority was a need for function, while my need was for beauty.”

And beauty they got. Cheryl says their wine cellar “feels like Tuscany,” with darkstained walls, a textured, plaster ceiling and the antique lighting and accessories that fill the room. And while it’s comfortable, it’s a bit chilly at 59 degrees, says Cheryl.

“I really enjoy it. It feels like I’m taking a little trip every time I grab a bottle of wine. And it’s helped us organize what we have,” she says. “I don’t pay attention to all the details of the wine, so we have it organized in a way that I can easily pull out a certain type of wine for friends if my husband isn’t around.”

The Daniels’ wine cellar has the capacity to store 1,100 bottles—most of which Cheryl says they will never consume.

“Our kids cheer us on in our collecting because they know they will one day be inheriting very nice wine, nicely aged,” she chuckles. LL

Continue reading »]]> Article Susan Fotovich McCabe | Photos courtesy Samara Naeymi

University of Kansas alumni are a close knit group, and most often seen clustered around televisions in bars around the country, cheering on their favorite athletic teams. Some KU alumni, however, are like family. Such is the case for a small group of KU theatre students and graduates who were courageous enough to apply their learning in the Big Apple.

Former Johnson County residents Averyn Mackey, Samara Naeymi, Xavier Rice and Michelle Nikoomanesh are among the New York talents who once called Kansas home. Today, the four, who refer to themselves as a “little urban family,” are singing, acting, writing, directing and producing their way through various New York productions.

“New York is a great city to work in—the different people who accumulate here breeds a unique, fun and thriving artist environment, and the opportunities are endless here,” says Rice, a Shawnee Mission North High School graduate. “I’ve worked hard and been lucky. I wouldn’t want to be any other place right now.”

During his last year at KU, Rice jumpstarted his career as a performance artist by moving to Minneapolis where he worked as an actor with CLIMB Theatre, a nationally recognized theatre company, Penumbra, The Guthrie, Theater Latté Da and others. He says he quickly fell in love with Minneapolis and actually made enough money to support himself. Still, a nagging desire to work and live in New York tugged at his heart, so he took a leap of faith and followed others from KU who had gone before him.

Moving to Brooklyn five years ago, Rice now produces his own cabaretstyle theatre productions throughout New York City, but most often at the popular Brooklyn venue Public Assembly, featuring his current show, Mamma Rice n Friends. His production is currently the theatre’s highest selling Monday night show, and was recently featured in TIME OUT New York’s “We Were There” as a great thing to do on a Monday night.

The show features many Kansas City performers, and while it’s a big hit, it’s not enough to support Rice financially. The money he makes waiting tables at a Midtown Manhattan restaurant near Lincoln Center pays the bills and allows him the flexibility to audition, rehearse and produce.

“I pay a couple bills a month producing my show, which after two years, is now making a little money. And I do on air radio work sometimes and sing locally for drinking/entertainment money,” he chuckles.

It’s a similar story and life for Mackey, who moved to New York seven years ago, fresh from her ceremonial graduation walk down the “hill” at KU. Mackey, who lives in Brooklyn near Rice and performs in his cabaret shows, is a former Leawood resident and Shawnee Mission East graduate.

“I like to say I’m an actor who sings. I don’t dance,” says Mackey, who has bumped into other KU theatre graduates in New York, and even some former high school classmates who are not involved in the theatre.

Mackey says her fellow KU theatre alumni are like family and that many have created their own productions that provide her with an opportunity to perform. Yet, like Rice, Mackey has had her share of bartending, waitressing and dog walking jobs to maintain her Brooklyn apartment.

Sometimes, she says, the ebb and flow of competing in New York can be discouraging at times. In fact, she went nearly an entire year without auditioning so she could recharge and strategize for her future. She remains positive about her life as a performance artist in the Big Apple, and says she does not plan on throwing in the towel.

“Unfortunately, 97 percent of actors in the union are unemployed. Even if I never make a living as an actor/performer, I’ll never leave New York,” Mackey says. “I love performing so much that I have no desire to walk away from the pursuit of it.”

Like Mackey, Nikoomanesh thrives on the many acting and singing opportunities she has found in New York, including staring in the Web series she co-founded, Shotgun Mondays, singing at New York City clubs, touring with her brother’s band, Sidewise and working as a karaoke emcee (which, along with administrative assistant gigs through a temporary service, pay the bills). Nikoomanesh, a Blue Valley High School graduate, regularly performs with the bands, Rawles Balls comedy cover band and the Eight Bit Band.

“I’m in the greatest city on Earth, even if I have to do other things to make ends meet,” Nikoomanesh says. “You have to find a balance between doing what you love and what you have to do to pay the bills.”

Another member of the “little urban family,” Naeymi, is in the enviable position of being able to hire some of her KU friends from time to time. Naeymi is the producing director and curator of the Incubator Arts Project in New York, which features original works by independent artists.

A graduate of Blue Valley Northwest High School, Naeymi had her eye on moving to England before deciding to follow fellow KU students to New York.

“When I came here, I had planned on being a performer. I took a bunch of acting classes, auditioned for a lot of things and acted in some off, off Broadway productions,” Naeymi says. “Eventually, I landed at the Incubator Arts Project and I have a great opportunity to grow with the organization, so I plan to stay here for now.”

As much as Naeymi loves living and working in New York, she admits she enjoys visits home with her parents in Overland Park and the wide-open feel she gets from being in Kansas.

“I like going back to Kansas because you feel like you can take a deep breath and there’s so much space,” Naeymi says. The same is true for Rice, who says a trip back home always includes a stop for drinks with friends on the Country Club Plaza.

“It’s a great place to catch up and get loose. I always swing by Jardine’s to see if M. Bird is singing. I also love catching a read and coffee at a bookstore and my sister and I always get a couple laps in around Oak park Mall,” Rice says. “I love being in a car! There’s no need to drive in New York. So when I get home, the thing I love to do most is hop in the car with my sister and drive about town having coffee and doing our thing!” LL

Continue reading »]]> Article Lisa Allen | Photography by Rachel Meiring/Kdog Photographers

Wisdom reminds us that even the most majestic trees start as a single seed or acorn. In that diminutive beginning lies supreme potential and promise; the same might be said about the Youth Symphony of Kansas City.

Established in 1958, the purpose of the organization is to educate young musicians through enhanced orchestral experiences and to build the present and future classical music community. Executive Director Steven Murray calls the students who participate in the program talented and dedicated.

“These students are truly the future of our community and of orchestral music,” says Murray. An audition process enables Murray and his colleagues to place students in one of five ensembles: Symphony, Academy, Philharmonic, Symphonette and String, with the Symphony Orchestra being the most advanced.

Students who participate in the Symphony Orchestra perform full-length works including standard orchestral repertoire that a listener might expect to hear performed by a professional orchestra. The preparatory full orchestra, known as the Symphonette Orchestra, performs shorter pieces including original instrumental works and arrangements of standard repertoire. This diversity in Orchestras allows students to progress and continually hone their skills as the difficulty and length of musical selections escalates.

More than 300 young musicians comprise the five orchestras and perform more than 15 annual performances. The Youth Symphony of Kansas City has served as the orchestral music home to more than 8,000 young musicians throughout the span of its 50-plus year history.

“The quality of the program is due to two primary aspects,” says Murray, “the fantastic student musicians and our talented artistic staff, consisting of five professional music educators and conductors, each of whom are wellrespected within the community. Because of their efforts, the program has maintained a high level of artistic and pedagogical quality.”

“I look forward to every Sunday afternoon, sharing terrific symphonic art music with the outstanding young musicians that are committed to the program” says Steven D. Davis, conductor of the Symphony Orchestra: “I am fortunate and blessed to be able to work with such a wonderful organization committed to this ideal.” Conductors Russell E. Berlin, Jr., Michelle Davis, Joseph Keeney and Gail Rowland round out the Artistic Staff.

When asked to describe a ‘typical’ Youth Symphony student, Murray uses the words good and hardworking. He shares that the students are extremely dedicated to not only their music education, but to the myriad of other activities in which they are involved. The program boasts alumni that have moved on to study at prestigious music programs such as The Julliard School, Rice University, Indiana University and the University of Michigan.

“Youth Symphony alumni have enjoyed careers as music educators and professional musicians, including full-time work in symphony orchestras throughout the United States. Additionally, many of our alumni decide to pursue studies and careers other than music, and their efforts are crucial in building an arts-minded community as we are so fortunate to have here in Kansas City,”
Murray says.

With students ranging in age from fourth grade to 21, each student auditions each year to determine placement, regardless of previous Youth Symphony involvement. Placement is competitive and is based on audition score and the recommendation of the adjudicators. Students are scored on a rubric that balances intonation, interpretation, tone, rhythm, technique and scale proficiency as well as the grade and instrumentation needs of each ensemble. Auditions for the 2012-13 season will be held in May.

With only two full-time administrative staff members, the organization relies heavily on volunteer support and charitable contributions. The majority of volunteer manpower comes from participating families, and as such each musician’s family is required to volunteer 10 hours of time throughout the course of the season. Volunteer duties vary but include assisting with rehearsal set-up, providing snacks at activities, helping with administrative tasks and managing events.

“At the present time, tuition fees account for approximately one-third of the program’s total operating costs, with the other two-thirds being made up by contributed revenue,” says Murray.

“Rather than burden families with yet another fundraiser or requirement to sell cookies or wrapping paper, we simply ask families to share with their colleagues the impact the program has had on their child’s education and to encourage their cohort to contribute to the program,” says Murray. All charitable contributions go directly to program needs.

The organization is committed to assisting students whose families demonstrate qualified financial need, and students are not turned away because of an inability to afford the program fees. Scholarships are available and follow a specific application process. All applications are held in the strictest of confidence, and are based on financial hardship rather than merit.

The 2012 performance calendar runs through June 5 and includes events at the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance, the Folly Theater and Helzberg Hall at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

The Youth Symphony holds an annual concerto competition in which two winners are selected, one from each the Symphony and Academy Orchestras. Cellist Angela Holmes won this year’s Symphony Concerto Competition. Holmes is a sophomore and the principal or first chair, of her section. This is her first year in the Symphony Orchestra.

Emily Shehi, an eighth-grade violinist and concertmaster, or first chair violin, of the orchestra, won the Academy Concerto Competition. Both Shehi and Holmes will perform their award-winning selections, with their respective orchestras, in a free public concert at Yardley Hall on February 26.

“To be able to assist in providing opportunity for these musicians to hone their artistic skill and to do so in ways that are not available anywhere else within the Kansas City metro is what really drives me as executive director,” says Murray.

“I am most passionate about the way in which this program enables these young people to be the absolute best they can be in all regards, not just musically. Having been a violinist and music educator it is a real joy to watch these young musicians perform in such an accomplished manner.”

Looking to the future, the organization aspires to afford as many who are interested in the opportunity to be a part of the musical experiences that the Youth Symphony offers, whether participating in an orchestra or attending a concert. Murray strives to build strong community partnerships and work collaboratively with area arts organizations, and is grateful for the
opportunity to work with musicians of the Kansas City Symphony.

“We will be presenting a concert alongside the Symphony in a side-byside format in June at the new Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts,” says Murray. JcL

Learn more about the Youth Symphony and the Artistic Staff, review audition guidelines and performance calendar at YouthSymphonyKC.org.

Continue reading »]]> Article Lauren Collinsworth Claflin | Photography courtesy of Lee Harrelson

Fountain City Brass Band is one of the most prestigious brass bands in the world, and yet few in its home town of Kansas City have heard of it. Most locals do not know that Kansas City has a brass band at all, yet alone one that has traveled through Europe, winning awards that no other brass band in North America has won.

Lee Harrelson hopes that will change. As founder and artistic director of Fountain City Brass Band, he is passionate about brass band music, as well as its rich heritage among hard-working people.

While not as popular in the United States, brass bands have flourished in Europe, especially Great Britain, since the early nineteenth century. Brass band music is known as the music of the masses. Before its formation, musical composition and performance belonged to the privileged. However, the Industrial Revolution changed almost everything about the lives of working-class people. Agricultural workers moved to cities, exchanging a quiet lifestyle of seasonal rhythms to one of cramped conditions and almost no recreational pursuits. Not surprisingly, rowdy drinking ensued, which did not produce competent workers.

Progressive factory owners began sponsoring brass bands as a way to keep their workers entertained. Factories would support the bands by purchasing and repairing instruments for their employees, as well as pro- viding sheet music and practice space. The bands, in turn, would benefit the factories by providing free advertising (brass bands were often named after the factories) and keeping their employees happy and fulfilled, rather than causing trouble after work.

The bands, and their communities, derived considerable pride and satisfaction from their performances, which lead to brass band competitions that still thrive today. In recent years, many of these competitions have awarded their highest honors to Fountain City Brass Band.

More than a decade before he started Fountain City Brass Band, Harrelson had a decision to make. When Harrelson was entering middle school in Crestview, FL, he learned that all students must choose between chorus, arts or band. He decided to play in the band, and his grandmother took him to the school to select an instrument. The band director told him that he would be best suited to the trombone or the euphonium.

“I had at least heard of the trombone, but I had no idea what a euphonium was,” says Harrelson. “As we discussed what I should play, the band director mentioned that trombone players would need to purchase an instrument, but euphoniums would be provided by the school. At that point, my grandmother announced, ‘he’s a euphonium player!’ She was right, and the decision that night changed my path forever.”

Harrelson proved to be a virtuoso at the euphonium, and his talent and dedication led him to the University of Southern Mississippi for his undergraduate education, then to UMKC Conservatory for a masters degree. When he was finishing his masters in 2002, Harrelson was at a crossroads. He was trying to decide between continuing his education, performing full time, or becoming a music teacher in the public school system. A friend encouraged Harrelson to accompany him to the North American Brass Band Championships. Harrelson returned home excited about a new path–starting a brass band in Kansas City.

Harrelson entered the doctoral program at UMKC (and later received his doctorate) at the same time that he was forming Fountain City Brass Band. He wrote a letter describing his ideas for the band and a business plan, and sent it every college music teacher and brass musician within two hours of Kansas City. He received just enough interest to start the band, and they first assembled almost 10 years ago. They were fortunate to have the full support of UMKC, including use of the school’s percussion equipment, free practice space, and music professors from the Conservatory that still play in the band.

Because there are so many British brass bands on the competition circuit, Fountain City’s success in Europe is not only surprising, but historic. In 2009, the band won the Scottish Open, one of the most prestigious brass competitions in the world. Fountain City is the only North American band to win on British soil. In addition to performing and competing throughout Europe, Fountain City has won the North American Brass Band Championships four times, a staggering achievement for such a young band.

“We have been blessed to have such dedicated and talented members of our band,” says Harrelson “Fountain City is an all-volunteer ensemble, and yet everyone involved gives so much of their time. That level of dedication is bound to lead toward success.”

This year is a special one for Fountain City Brass Band, with many competitions and performances scheduled, as well as a special 10th-anniversary concert next October that will feature present and past members of the band playing on stage together. Fountain City’s next performance in Kansas City, Windows of the World, will be April 28 at MidAmerica Nazarene College. (For ticket information, visit the band’s website at fcbb.net.)

Brass banding is still in its infancy in North America, but it is growing in popularity. One of Harrelson’s greatest passions is the development of the brass band movement in the United States.

“The music and the camaraderie of brass banding is so enjoyable,” says Harrelson. “Musically, there is something for everyone, from the youngest beginners to professional musicians.” LL

]]> http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/2012/01/28/a-local-brass-band-has-won-international-acclaim/feed/ 0 http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/2012/01/28/former-shawnee-mission-east-athletic-director-inducted-into-hall-of-fame/ http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/2012/01/28/former-shawnee-mission-east-athletic-director-inducted-into-hall-of-fame/#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:10:39 +0000 ilsy http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/?p=931

Continue reading »]]> Article and Photos Provided by Shawnee Mission School District

Art Newcomer, former director of athletics at Shawnee Mission East High School, will soon be inducted into the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators’ Association Hall of Fame. Newcomer, who was athletic director at SM East from 1965 to 1995, is the first Kansan to be selected for the NIAAA Hall of Fame, and a member of the third class of inductees. He also is one of the individuals who helped found the NIAAA in 1977.

The NIAAA is a professional leadership organization for high school and middle school athletic administrators and includes more than 8,200 interscholastic athletic administrators within its membership. Newcomer is among a group of athletic administrators who gave of their time and knowledge to make the NIAAA the organization it is today, according to Sister Lynn Winsor, a past NIAAA President who nominated Newcomer.

“In every organization there are individuals who stand out, who epitomize service, and whose loyalty, hard work, and deep love for the organization leaves an indelible mark on that organization,” Winsor says. “Dr. Art Newcomer is such a person.”

In addition to his work with the NIAAA, Newcomer also was a founder of the Kansas Secondary School Athletic Directors Association, now known as the Kansas Interscholastic Administrators’ Association. In addition to being inducted into the hall of fame, Newcomer holds many honors including the NIAAA National Award of Merit, the NIAAA Kansas Award of Merit in 1990, the University of Kansas Hero Award, and he is a member of the Kansas State High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame.

Newcomer was officially inducted during the central ceremony of the NIAAA National Conference held in December in Indianapolis, Ind. LL

Continue reading »]]> Article Mary Bush | Photography Provided by Leopold Gallery

Napa Valley’s Domaine Chandon vineyard, known for its legendary sparkling wines, and Los Angeles’ Warner Brothers Studio, known for its legendary movie-making, have something in common with both Kansas City’s Kauffman Stadium and Overland Park’s Convention Center.

All four are among the many major organizations showcasing distinctive art projects promoted and installed by Brookside gallery owner and art consultant Paul Dorrell.

“It seems to always surprise people that we have major clients not only in this area but also around the country and in Australia, Japan and all over Europe,” says Dorell from the busy floor of the Leopold Gallery, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in October.

A Kansas native and proud of it, Dorrell grew up in Old Leawood and fondly remembers riding horses at the old Saddle and Sirloin Club and racing motocross bikes on the dirt road that is now College Blvd. Later, at the University of Kansas, Dorrell earned degrees in English literature and art history, but unlike most of his peers, did not seek traditional employment after graduation. Instead, he took off on his motorcycle, accompanied only by a backpack, and visited all 48 contiguous states. He worked his way through the two-year adventure at various jobs along the way, including stints on a horse ranch in Santa Barbara, a fishing boat in the Florida Keys  and on Katherine Hepburn’s estate in Connecticut.

“My mom was pretty cool with the whole thing but my dad was worried,” says Dorrell. “He relaxed though, after the first few months when he could see I was really serious about seeing this country.”

Eventually, Dorrell landed his first real job as the assistant director of the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, Conn. and discovered his true calling— involvement with art. After helping the museum expand its membership and restore its grounds, Dorrell came back to Lawrence and opened the Leopold Gallery in 1991.

“My first goal?” laughs Dorrell, “not to go bankrupt.”

From the beginning, Dorrell was passionate about discovering and promoting regional art from Kansas and Missouri.

“If there was any way to get an area artist’s work in front of a client, we did it,” says Dorrell. “There is such a wealth of great work here and sometimes this part of the country can get overlooked.”

He installed his first major job in downtown Hartford, Conn., a statue of Mark Twain created by Lawrence sculptor Jim Brothers. The gallery moved to downtown Kansas City in 1994 and Dorrell continued to work with area artists, including Brothers who also sculpted a memorial statue of U.S. General Omar Bradley, now installed in Moberly, Mo.

After a fire seriously damaged the business, Dorrell moved to the Crestwood area in 1997. During that time, he became the art consultant for the National D-Day Museum in Bedford, Va. where today, Brothers’ six monumental bronzes and six portrait busts are on display. Legendary film maker Steven Spielberg, a benefactor of the museum, was so taken with Brothers’ work that he also owns one of the artist’s pieces.

Today, the Leopold Gallery is located on Brookside’s bustling 63rd Street. Dorrell and wife Ann live in Prairie Village and the couple’s two sons, Denny and Josh, both attend KU and assist with the gallery’s projects.

In addition to the Kauffman Stadium and Overland Park Convention Center, Dorrell’s area projects include major art installations at H & R Block Headquarters, University of Kansas Hospital, Kansas State University, Kansas City Zoo, Sprint Center, Citizens Bank and St. Luke’s Hospital.

“All involve scores of regional artists,” says Dorrell, whose client list includes his first employer, the Hill-Stead Museum. “We’ve helped some become the successful artists they are today, with encouragement and support. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about-along with developing regional culture. I’m quite proud of both accomplishments.”

Somehow, Dorrell also found time to write an acclaimed guidebook for artists, Living the Artist’s Life. Published in 2005, Dorrell found himself on a 60-city book tour over an 18-month period, promoting the book at retailers and conducting lectures at various artistic forums. The updated version of the book will be published in April. In addition to hitting the road again to promote the book’s second edition, Dorrell has been invited to interview as an art consultant for the San Francisco 49ers new stadium.

Dorrell’s other creative passion which many of his clients share, is underwriting the art programs in inner city schools such as Sumner Academy and the Paseo Academy. The Leopold Gallery Charitable Foundation, created in 2010, does just that.

“So many of our clients donate generously to this project,” says Dorrell. “The foundation provides first rate instruction, field trips and art supplies for these kids–the same things their counterparts in Blue Valley and Shawnee Mission receive. We reach out to kids who feel in their bones they want to work with art but may be hampered by their circumstances.”

So what inspires someone like Dorrell who is responsible for the advancement of so many others’ inspirations?

“Of course, my family and then also travel, whether it’s here or abroad,” says Dorrell. “I’m also fortunate to be around such visionary artists and clients, doing something I love.”

But inspiration also comes when Dorrell hits the road on the well-tuned street bike he owns.

“There’s nothing like taking it up to 130 miles an hour when I’m all alone on some deserted highway,” laughs Dorrell. “I’m just always careful when I do it.” LL

For more information visit LeopoldGallery.com.

Continue reading »]]> Article Ann E. Butenas | Photography Brian Turner

What is an oogly, you might ask? Well, an oogly is basically what you make it, but before we let you peek into the wonderful world of ooglies, perhaps it might help to show you from where they came.

It all began one peaceful day years ago. Artist Myrna Minnis was at her home in Overland Park, quietly biding her time playing with some clay she had on hand. While she was not intentionally trying to create something, it was as if in that moment, her hands were led by some unseen force that inspired her to create a little creature out of clay. Before she knew it, three of these intriguing characters stood on the table in front of her. Without skipping a beat, the voice of imagination inside her head shouted, “Oogly! Call it an oogly!” (The voice also suggested the spelling remain in lower case letters, too, as if to add to its incredible uniqueness.)

“In my mind’s eye at the time, I could just see the five letters – o-o-g-l-y – just hanging from a clothesline, waving in the breeze,” she smiles. “I didn’t have to think twice about it. That was a pure gift from God given to me over 20 years ago.”

When such Divine inspiration hits, it’s probably a good thing to follow that little voice inside your head. Minnis recalls that when she was initially playing with that lump of clay, she felt as if she found her calling, embracing her newfound passion with endless enthusiasm.

“When I touched the clay that day, it was like magic,” she recounts. “It was as if I had come home.”

These days, when she works with various children in her art workshops, the kids always bring their inquiring minds to the table and continually ask her how ooglies were born.

“I tell them the story and remind them that you just never know when a good idea will hit,” she emphasizes, adding, “And when it does and it makes your heart sing, pursue that idea with a passion.”

Acting upon her sudden inspiration, Minnis knew she just had to share this with the world, but the answer of how to do just that remained temporarily elusive.

“I just knew I had to create an oogly kit,” she says, “and within three months, the clay I needed to do just that made itself available to me.”

That was in 1989. Minnis is now on her third design of the oogly kit, which essentially started a new career for her. Actually, it’s more of a calling.

Prior to all of this, Minnis was honing her skills with clay through her work throwing pots. She then began to hand build whimsical wizards out of clay. These delightful works of art soon led her to various people who recognized how her talents and innate ability to connect with others allowed for a great teaching medium.

With a husband in the Navy in their early years together, Minnis and her two children (Yanna, her daughter, is now a business partner with Minnis) moved about from New York to Florida and then finally back to her home state of Kansas. She continued to indulge her love of art when she finally made Kansas City her permanent home back in the 1970s. Her Overland Park residence is a grand testament towards her passion and creativity, as a host of garden sculptures eagerly greet you and welcome you to sit down, relax, and just enjoy the moment.

“It’s a very fun and magical place in my backyard,” she says. “It is so picturesque and quiet. I enjoy meditating back here. It’s my little wonderland; my space of peace.”

Now that her oogly kits have taken the world by storm, Minnis’ professional docket is usually quite full, making those moments of backyard tranquility so much more appreciated.

Through the use of her clay and heavy doses of inspired creativity, Minnis encourages young people across the metro area to indulge their imaginations and stir the well of their senses.

Named “2000 Kansas Educator in Arts and Disabilities,” Minnis travels all over the city visiting schools and teaching young students exactly all that an oogly kit can do. It’s more than just a box of clay. It’s an avenue to possibilities.

Because the clay in these kits never dry, kids can continually use it, creating as many objects as they desire. There is no right or wrong way to use an oogly kit, and every time a child returns to it, a new adventure awaits.

The oogly kits are amazing tools that have come to the attention of therapists world-wide. By working with oogly kits, both teacher and student, especially those students with special needs, can make a genuine connection and tap into a place within that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Minnis not only visits various elementary schools across the metro area, but she also conducts workshops in her home. These classes are held once each week for four weeks. Each session is 90 minutes long. Minnis also hosts several birthday parties and Cub Scout group functions every year. Her home is a busy, yet magically happy place.

“The kids feel safe when they come here,” she notes, referring to her home, her sanctuary. “I love what I do and awaken every day eager to continue doing what I am doing. I’m very blessed.”

Minnis so spiritedly believes in the power of playing with clay and in the spirit of awakening the true genius in everyone.

“This is my gift to share with the world,” she smiles. “My dream is coming true. I am continually amazed at how this kit has brought me so many wonderful friends and experiences. Everyone should have an oogly kit.”

These fascinating oogly kits can be found at a variety of retailers in town, including ARTichokes in Leawood; the Nelson Atkins gift shop; the Learning Tree; and Brookside Science and Toy and even at McGonigle’s Meat Market (Hey—they are for everyone!) They can also be ordered online. LL You can discover more about oogly art kits by visiting TheOoglyKit.com. For more information on Minnis, visit her website at ArtWithMyrna.com.

Continue reading »]]> Article Mary Bush | Photography Brian Turner

It has been about a month since many of us made the New Year’s resolution that is always at the top of the list—to get in shape and lose weight. But according to Jerry Biga, the owner of Leawood’s newest health club, Kosama Complete Body Transformation, the best time to get in shape, both physically and nutritionally, is now—whenever “now” happens to be.

The new facility, located at 135th and Roe in Parkway Plaza Building One, opened its doors in November just in time for the New Year’s surge. Biga and wife Therese chose Leawood as Kosama’s location after looking at cities in surrounding states.

“We really like the feel of the area and are excited to introduce our program to the community,” says Biga, who along with Therese, moved to Overland Park from Des Moines last summer to prepare for Kosama’s opening. “We have a unique program that produces real results in a minimal amount of time which encourages people to stick with it.”

Biga knows first hand the benefits the Kosama workouts offer as he was a member of the health club in Des Moines for three years before deciding to invest in the company.

“Body fitness has always been a passion of mine and when I started the Kosama workouts, they appealed to me more than any I’d previously tried,” says Biga, a former vice-president of a paper and printing company in Des Moines for the past 20 years. “I became a part time instructor and continued to be impressed with the results and the company’s commitment to health, safety and overall fitness.”

Kosama’s program was developed in Des Moines and its catchy name comes from the first two letters of the three founders’ names. Participants in the program start with eight weeks of workouts that focus on nutrition and increasing lean muscle mass, major components that lead to optimal physical fitness and weight loss.

However, before any workouts begin, participants undergo a thorough health assessment.

“We use a Tanita Scale which allows us to accurately measure an individual’s body fat percentage, fat free mass, BMI (body mass index), hydration levels and more,” says Biga. “This helps us modify the program so it’s safe for whatever age or fitness level we are working with.”

The Kosama program breaks down into six, different, high-energy workouts throughout each week. Sessions include yoga, kickboxing, muscle strength training, strengthening exercises for the upper and lower body and working out with kettlebells, round weights with handles used for resistance training.

 “We mix it up which keeps our work outs fresh and interesting,” says Biga. “We’ve been here a short amount of time and have already seen some pretty amazing results from our members.”

The Kosama facility in Leawood consists of 4000 square feet, mostly devoted to workout space. Shower facilities and locker rooms are also on site. There are several certified instructors on staff and Biga plans to open two additional Kosama locations in the area within a year. Therese Biga is a part time instructor and also oversees administrative duties for the business. The couple has five grown children and just welcomed their first grandchild, a baby boy.

Biga’s goal is not only to have a successful business, but also to positively affect the obesity problems and related health issues that plague our country. He notes that with adult obesity at 33 percent and childhood obesity at 25 percent, many health problems are self-inflicted.

“Health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hip and knee problems, joint pain, and acid reflux are often due to weight gain, poor nutrition and/or lack of muscle and bone mass,” says Biga. “In addition to preventing problems such as these, our goal is to make people feel and look better, have more energy, be less prone to injury and sickness and even add productive years to their lives.” LL

For more information about Kosama Complete Body Transformation, visit Leawood.Kosama.com.

]]> http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/2012/01/28/time-to-shape-up/feed/ 0 http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/2012/01/27/in-the-age-of-risk/ http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/2012/01/27/in-the-age-of-risk/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:37:25 +0000 ilsy http://www.leawoodlifestyle.com/?p=942

Continue reading »]]> By Jessica A. Maldonado

Your appetite for taking on risk can change throughout your year as an investor, depending on how and when you plan to utilize the
results of your investment strategy. While you can never eliminate investment risk, managing the risk to meet your needs and align with your current sentiment is a strategy we encourage every investor to employ. Has your portfolio management fallen behind the times, leaving you exposed to more risk than you’re prepared to handle?

Investors must understand their personal risk tolerance level because a certain amount of risk must be taken to garner returns. The level of risk, and therefore the portfolio allocation, is how the varied amount of risk will be allotted for each investor. An investment portfolio will not be allocated the same for an investor whose primary concern is minimizing risk as one whose primary concern is maximizing returns. These investors will have differing viewpoints on uncertainty, comfort levels and change. Basically, there is a difference in how much volatility each investor is willing to assume, but this also means there will be a difference in how their portfolios will perform.

Risk Throughout Life
Presumably, the amount of risk you are comfortable taking will change with your current life situation. Your age, investment goals and timelines, financial obligations and other financial considerations may factor into your choice for an appropriate level of risk. As a young investor with few or no dependents, one might choose to have more exposure to equity securities because statistically, equities garner higher average returns over the long run. Younger investors have a longer time frame in which to continue saving and buying equities at a lower price if the positive returns don’t initially present themselves.

An investor nearing retirement may have more exposure to fixed income securities and cash equivalents to limit the volatility in the portfolio and produce income. However, even for an older investor, it might be necessary to have some exposure to equities to keep up with taxes and inflation.

The amount of risk taken does not only correlate with age, but also with your overall goals. An adult couple that still has more than 30 years to save for their retirement goals might also have the goal to fund their child’s education and only have four years left to save for that expense. Their portfolio, or at least a portion of their portfolio, might look like an older investor’s because their goals and timelines align with someone nearing retirement (i.e. both are working toward a major goal within a short time frame). These goals and special situations must be considered by yourself or your advisor when determining your risk tolerance level.

Proactively Managing Risk
Regardless of your risk tolerance level, managing risk is impacted by the investment principles that guide your portfolio. Perhaps one of the most risky moves you can make is not abiding by sound investment principles that should be guiding the exposure taken in your portfolio. Do you leave your portfolio exposed to the same investments regardless of the economic climate? Do you manage your fixed income holdings that same way regardless of the economy being in an inflationary period or recessionary period? Do you consider expansion and contraction of the economy and utilize investments that will fare better during those periods? Do you modify your investment weighting depending upon changing global economic conditions? By proactively managing your portfolio, you can better manage the risk associated with your investments. While common portfolio allocations (conservative, moderate, moderately aggressive, aggressive) may seem like safe “buckets” to help guide your percentages of exposure to various investments, how flexible are you with these allocations during changing economic climates? An investor should have a process to carefully select their investments, diversify their portfolio, monitor performance, and be flexible to make changes when conditions change.

Our investment portfolios can help us reach the goals we’ve set for our lives, but only if we’re taking care of our portfolio. We cannot build a portfolio and then cross our fingers that it will work how we’ve designed it to through the highs and lows of the economy. Unless you’re prepared to take on enormous amounts of intolerable risk, it’s time to step up your portfolio management process to keep the risk working in your favor. LL

Jessica A. Maldonado is Chief Compliance Officer for Allos Investment Advisors, a registered investment advisory firm located in Overland Park, offering fee-only investment management services with no account minimums. For additional information, visit AllosAdvisors.com.