Lawrence, KS December 2023 by City Lifestyle

SHOPPING

CH ECK OUT TH E L A STM INUTE GI FT GU I DE E N TE R TA I N M E NT

TH E DRU N KEN CH RISTM A S CARO L IS BACK! E D U C ATI O N

LIFELO N G LE ARN I NG O PPO RTU N ITI ES AT KU F O O D + B E V E R AG E

FRO M GRAIN TO GL A SS AT U N IO N HO RSE

Feel the Vibe D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

www.tdesigncompany.com

(785) 414-8815

@TDesignCompany

@thiessen_designco

LIFESTYLE LETTER

'Tis the Season

December 2023 PUBLISHER

Denise DeTommaso denise.detommaso@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Dear Reader, The holidays are here, and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child, whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities, or a combination of all that reflects that best. When I was a child, we had very specific traditions. We also spent time planning for the following year as we had time together as a family. For that reason, we chose a few educational topics to spark our curiosity, as well as specific holiday-related topics. This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps as we enter the New Year. Yes, 2024! We’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier, and that also supports our local businesses. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community who need assistance or are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other, extending care, empathy and love. Happy Holidays and the best for 2024!

DENISE DETOMMA SO, PUBLISHER @L AWRENCEKSCIT YLIFEST YLE

Linda Ditch | linda.ditch@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER S

Amanda Brubaker amanda.brubaker@citylifestyle.com Joseph Elliott | joseph.elliott@citylifestyle.com Meredithe McCormick meredithe.mccormick@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Jamie Jamison | jamie.jamison@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Nathan Hutchcraft | nathan@fabuluxmedia.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Linda Ditch, Denise DeTommaso CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Anthony Fergola, Krystol Kumar, Shannon Warren

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/L AWRENCEKS |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Lawrence City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Lawrence area’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 Lawrence City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

08 The Last Minute Gift Guide

Lifestyle Letter

Gift Guide S HO PPI NG

Education Corner EDU CAT I ON

Happy Hour FO O D + B EV ER AG E

Athlete Life FI T NES S

Kids Corner LI FE + C U LT U R E

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Realty Report R EA L ESTAT E

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Back Stage ENT ERTA I NMENT

Some Unique Ideas for Those Emergency Presents that Pop Up This Time of Year

14 Lifelong Learning

Gaining Knowledge Doesn't Stop After Graduation

24 Soccer for Everyone

A Conversation with Sporting Kaw Valley Executive Director Kirsten Judd

28 A Child's Guide to Paris

A Local Author Creates a New Children's Book to Spark Curiosity About Exploring the World

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Anthony Fergola The cast of Drunken Christmas Carol strut their stuff at Nestings Home Decor & Gifts Co.

WHEN QUALITY MATTERS, GET IT DONE WITH DUNCO

• SERVICE & INSTALL FROM TRAINED, QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS • UPFRONT PRICING - THERE ARE NO SURPRISES • 24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE

785.843.7137 | duncohc.com

A life polic y throug h wo rk could:

En d if y ou ch or lose a jo an g e b Be ca nc ell ed Ha ve lim ite d op tio ns

I know I need life insurance, but isn’t my policy through work enough? Having any type of coverage is a good start, but not all policies are equal. An individual policy can offer more options and move with you if you change jobs. Let’s be sure your life insurance meets your unique needs. Contact me today. Ryan Sparke 2201 W. 25th St., Ste. E Lawrence, KS 785.841.0073 SparkeAgency.com

Request a Quote

Securities & services offered through FBL Marketing Services, LLC,+ 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860-2904, Member SIPC. Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,+* Western Agricultural Insurance Company,+* Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company+*/West Des Moines, IA. +Afﬁliates. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services. PR-LI-A (5-22) D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

gift guide ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Last Minute Gift Guide SOME UNIQUE IDEAS FOR THOSE EMERGENCY PRESENTS THAT POP UP THIS TIME OF YEAR

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

gifts to Wrap 1.

1. Waxman Candles The perfect pairing...Waxman candles and ceramics. Both are handmade on-site. WaxmanCandles.com 2. Eldridge Hotel Order or pick up a gift card today! Valid for the hotel, bar or restaurant. EldridgeHotel.com 3. Bare Roots Energy This season, give the gift of personal growth and wellness with a transformative energy healing or a lovely tea set for the chakra centers. BareRootsEnergy.com 4 & 5. Eccentricity We have a variety of coats to keep your loved ones warm and cozy! Or choose these semi-precious stacker bracelets from Scout Curated Wares. Ten percent of Scout’s net profits go toward organizations that support and promote women, such as Black Girls Code, Dress for Success and Safe Passage. ShopEccentricityKansas.com 6. Swanson’s There is a world of Wonder at Swanson’s! Women’s and Men’s clothing and accessories, gourmet food, craft hot sauces, holiday ornaments, candies, books, gadgets, games and puzzles. Swansons-Lawrence.com

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

gifts of Experience 1.

1. Sunflower State Dance Sign up your wannabe Nutcracker for ballet, hiphop, jazz, modern or tap classes. SunflowerStateDance.com 2. Eco Clean Ellie’s Who wouldn’t love the gift of a clean house? Eco Clean Ellie’s has gift certificates for a trash and tidy service—perfect for after the holidays! EcoCleanEllies.com 3. Head and Heart Health and Wellness Give the gift of confidence! Head & Heart Health and Wellness offers a range of services, including Botox, fillers, IV fluids, vitamin injections, and yoga classes. Gift cards are also available. HeadandHeartHealth.com 4. Evolution Athletics Receive one movement evaluation and testing ($99 value) and one month of performance training program, and up to 3x per week ($199 value) for $159! EvolutionAthletics.net 5. Paradise Carpet One Get $150 off any purchase of $2000 or more through the end of the year to help you give the gift of new flooring! ParadiseCarpetOneLawrence.com 6. Kimberly Williams of McGrew Real Estate Unlock the potential of your new living space or get your home ready for sale. Enjoy a one-hour free design consultation with a new Listing Agreement or Buyer’s Agency Agreement signed in the month of December. Courtesy of Kimberly Williams, McGrew Real Estate, in collaboration with Karyn Hayes Design, LLC. kimberly@kiwilliams.com, 785.312.0743 7. The Oread Hotel Celebrate the season with a spectacular four-course Réveillon dinner. This New Orleans-style menu features Blue Crab Soup, Shrimp Rémoulade and, of course, Shrimp and Grits! Choices are also available for diners wanting something less jazzy, such as a beautiful Fall Harvest Salad and Lemon Chicken with Angel Hair Pasta. This special experience is available December 1-23, and reservations are encouraged. Dinner is $45 per person. TheOread.com

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL YOU R D IGITAL D ESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

WE OFFER AUTO PAY OPTIONS! Ask us for more information.

Erin Newell, SALES SPECIALIST – PERSONAL LINES

Justin Moravec, 4106 W 6th St, Suite C Lawrence, KS 66049 Phone is 785-841-6776 jmoravec@amfam.com

AGENT AND OWNER

Heidi Ernst, CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

24-HOUR CLAIMS REPORTING & CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-800-MYAMFAM (692-6326) HOME | AUTO | LIFE | BUSINESS | FARM & RANCH AMFAM.COM AMERICAN FAMILY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY, S.I. & ITS OPERATING COMPANIES, AMERICAN FAMILY LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, 6000 AMERICAN PARKWAY, MADISON WI 53783 CA-010996 3/23

As One Community,

WE CLIMB. CLIMB LAWRENCE

785.856.0394 | climblawrence.com 714 Vermont Street Lawrence, Kansas 66044

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

Lifelong Learning Just because graduation day is a distant memory doesn’t mean education has to end. Lawrence has numerous ways to explore enthralling subjects or learn new skills, regardless of age. Want to learn about the Dust Bowl era? There’s a class for that. How about studying the history of the area’s major league teams? There’s a class for that, too, plus ones on birding, beekeeping, and how to use TikTok. Best of all, no homework or tests are required. Just a chance to learn for fun without the pressure.

The University of Kansas’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute offers noncredit enrichment courses in 13 northeast Kansas and Greater Kansas City communities. The program has courses and experiences in various subjects for people of all ages and backgrounds. “It’s really about engagement,” says Linda Kehres, director of the Osher Institute. “We provide high-quality educational opportunities that enrich lives and engage individuals in a meaningful way. Not only do they get an

GAINING KNOWLEDGE DOESN'T STOP AFTER GRADUATION

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY KU

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

opportunity to pursue their intellectual curiosity, “That’s the other beauty of our program. These short but they also get the chance to socialize and conenrichment courses give members enough time nect with other lifelong learners. Many friendships to delve into the topic but not have to give up their are created through our classroom experiences other engagements, which makes learning very fun!” and on our special event trips.” While many of the Institute’s classes attract ADDITIONAL CONTINUING people “50 or better,” there is no age limit to those EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES AT KU who can attend. Courses are offered in the fall, The Osher Institute is part of Jayhawk Global, an spring and summer semesters. They meet once a education innovation center for learners wherever week for three weeks, so taking multiple classes they may be on their education path. Students can each semester is possible. One-time courses are pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees virtually, also available. no matter their location. Plus, there are non-credit The Institute has approximately 150 instructors, certification and professional development courses, many of whom are current or retired professors, yet both online and in person, in several departments, that is not a requirement. such as Professional Some presenters do Programs that include research and develop a Aerospace Short Not only do they get an course based on a topic Courses, Engineering and opportunity to pursue they’re passionate about, Technology Courses, such as a hobby. Boot Camps in codtheir intellectual What are some of the ing, data analytics and curiosity, but they also most popular courses? cybersecurity skills, Kehres says, “History RBT Training, PMP Prep, get the chance to socialize is number one, bar and a Master Class with none. Current events Academy Award Winner and connect with other are also always popuKevin Willmott, the lifelong learners. Many lar, especially during Kansas Fire and Rescue a political year. Other Training Institute and the friendships are created courses include music, Kansas Law Enforcement entertainment, arts, Training Center. through our classroom humanities, and various A typical Jayhawk experiences and on our other topics. We find Global for credit online that some instructors student is in their 30s special event trips. develop a sort of followand 40s and interested ing and members take in obtaining a master’s their classes regardless of the topic.” degree or changing careers. The undergraduate Courses are offered in person, online and offerings attract students looking to complete a hybrid. The current fall semester, which ends on degree with credits from other institutions or an December 15th, offered 77 classes. Spring is already associate degree they want to turn into a bachebeing planned with nearly 90 course offerings. The lor’s degree. In the non-credit category, along with annual membership fee of $25 provides access to Osher’s offerings, corporations often want specific the programming at a member cost of $50 for a extra skills training for their employees. three-week course and $25 for a one-time offering. “The benefit of Jayhawk Global is having all of Special events vary based on the event. Members KU’s opportunities for students to engage with also enjoy several FREE activities, including the the KU expertise and programming in one place,” KU Osher Speaker Series, the Artistic Exploration says Michelle Mohr Carney, founding vice provost Club, the Book Club and the Osher Outings. for Jayhawk Global and dean of the School of Social “Members don’t have to commit an entire Welfare. “We can now offer alternatives to stusemester to learning something new,” says Kehres. dents residing in rural regions or even in different

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

states, particularly those with family obligations or existing commitments that make relocation to Lawrence or Overland Park for in-person classes impractical. In the MSW program, we have a student in Hawaii. In the past, convincing this student to attend the Lawrence or Edwards campuses would have been highly challenging. That’s one small example, but it shows how we extend KU’s reach, which is important and exciting.” Kansas residents at least 60 years old may also attend regular KU classes on the Senior Citizen Rate. Tuition for students in this program is waived, as is the fee for the Lawrence or

Medical Center campuses. They are admitted as non-degree-seeking undergraduate or graduate students and may attend classes numbered under 800. Enrollment is for six or fewer hours per semester. To learn more about The Senior Citizen Rate program, log onto Registrar.ku.edu/senior-citizen-students. For Jayhawk Global, visit JayhawkGlobal.ku.edu, and for details about The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, including a current course catalog, visit JayhawkGlobal.ku.edu/Osher, call 785-864-6779, or email osher@ku.edu.

Thinking about starting your own business? Don’t let worries about finances stand in your way.

Get started on the the right foot with our Start-Up Business Consulting Package. 16

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

(785) 251-8220 hello@ledotax.com www.ledotax.com

Explore our variety of Reiki and meditation services, healing teas, online courses, publications and more.

JAMELLE ZABLOW-MOLONEY

LAWRENCE, KS 785-532-9356

www.barerootsenergy.com Cert. Reiki Master, Plant-Based Medicine Consultant, Author

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

From Grain to Glass ARTICLE BY DENISE DETOMMASO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

THE ART AND CRAFT OF WHISKEY MAKING RIGHT HERE IN NORTHEAST K ANSAS

You don’t have to travel to Scotland to find great whiskey. A trip to a local town, or even to your favorite liquor store here in Lawrence, will likely showcase the delightful and delicious whiskey brewed at the Union Horse Distillery in Lenexa, Kansas. At this locally owned distillery, founded in 2010 by the Garcia family, corn, wheat, rye, or barley are sourced locally and used to make fine whiskey. Everything is done in-house and by hand, from barreling and bottling to producing one of the many different flavor options marketed and sold in Kansas and around the country. “We set out in 2010 to produce grainto-glass whiskies, special and unique to our hometown of Kansas City that had not been done since the prohibition,” says Damien Garcia, director of marketing and sales and co-founder.

A LITTLE HISTORY: The history of whisky goes back hundreds of years. The practice of distilling alcohol made its way to Europe in the twelfth century. However, the earliest written evidence of distillation in Scotland is from the fifteenth century when malt whisky was known as aqua vitae, Latin for “water of life.” The distillation process has been refined to create some of the nuanced flavors available today, distilled by both home distillers and businesses for sale to whiskey lovers.

THE PROCESS: Whiskey makers set themselves apart from one another in the first stage of the production process by the type of grain used and the blending of grain

H AP PY H OU R | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

as it enters the first step in the process known as milling or preparing. Next, during the malting step, the grain is mixed with water and cooked to form the mash. The mash now moves into the step known as fermentation, where it is mixed with yeast. The yeast multiplies, producing CO2, which bubbles away, leaving behind alcohol particles and elements such as flavor. This slurry is pumped into a still. The still at Union Horse, lovingly named “Chester Copperpot,” is a gleaming 500-gallon pot and is the first thing you see when you enter the facility. The smell of grain blending is enticing and wonderful as you tour the site. Once fermentation is complete, distillation begins with the heating of the still. The alcohol vaporizes, is collected, and then cools to form the clear droplets of “high wine” or “new whiskey. Before entering the barrel, the distilled spirit will be proofed down to an ABV of 55 percent to pull out more complex flavors (caramels, butter scotches, vanillas) as the whiskey ages. Finally, the whiskey moves to a step known as maturation, which includes aging the whiskey in barrels for approximately five years. The liquid is transferred into barrels and stacked in the non-climate-controlled barrel house. As the Midwest seasonal temperatures change, so does the temperature in the warehouse. This fluctuation of temperatures creates bolder flavors that are then imparted into the whiskey as the barrel expands and contracts. After two and a half years, each barrel will get tested but won’t be emptied until it reaches a maturity level of around five-plus years. The barrels are then proofed, and some are blended in a particular way and sampled again. Each whiskey is tested for complexity and full flavor before the bottling stage. At Union Horse, all bottling and labeling are done in-house by hand. Patrick Garcia, the Master Distiller and

We set out in 2010 to produce grain-toglass whiskies, special and unique to our hometown of Kansas City, that had not been done since the prohibition. co-founder, signs and numbers each bottle of Reserve Straight Bourbon, Reunion Straight Rye, and Barrel Strength Rye whiskies. Union Horse also hosts guests for meetings and events. It is a beautiful space with smaller and larger rooms that accommodate different-sized groups who can end their meeting with a tasting. CONTINUED > D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

The Union Horse Spirits

R I VA L I S T:

A small batch of artisanal American single malt whiskey made from 100-percent malted barley. Handcrafted using three styles of barley, then aged in new oak barrels. REUNION BARREL STRENGTH:

A rye whiskey handcrafted from 100-percent rye mash and barreled at a proof of 110. REUNION STRAIGHT RY E W H I S K E Y:

A small batch of 100-percent rye whiskey that harkens back to the start of American whiskey. R O L L I N G S TA N D A R D :

A Midwestern four-grain whiskey that blends two different styles of whiskey—a wheated bourbon and an American single malt that captures the four grains of barley, wheat, corn and rye.

Buying a bottle for a fellow whiskey lover is a great way to celebrate the holidays and procure that special gift. Union Horse Whiskeys are available here in Lawrence at several liquor stores. If you want to see the production process, you can book a tour at Union Horse Distillery. Go to UnionHorse.com for more details.

H AP PY H OU R | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Be sure to have that designated driver so that you can end the tour with a tasting. And enjoy those lovely sips! Cheers! Learn more about Union Horse’s spirits or to book a tour at UnionHorse.com

ECOFRESH POWER WASH House Washing | Wood Staining Concrete And Patio Washing Commercial | Residential Gutter Cleaning 785.806.1388 ecofreshpowerwash.com D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

Save For The Adventure! Rates NOW as high as

% 5.75

APY*

SAVE BIGGER

*Annual Percentage Yield. Rates effective 11/8/23; new certificate rate subject to change. The minimum balance required to maintain a Share Certificate is $500. Early withdrawal penalty may apply. 11-month share certificate is not available for IRA. Upon maturity, certificate will renew to the traditional 12-month term certificate at the rate applicable on the renewal date.

Discover the Difference at Honey Bee Pediatric Dental Co.

Come join our Hive! (785) 838-5650 honey beepdc.com 4621 W. 6t h St reet, Suite B. L awrence , KS 22

Make your business meeting or event truly memorable The perfect place to get the work done with our functional and well-equipped meeting spaces, our event spaces can comfortably accommodate any group size, ranging from ten to 200 guests. Reserve your space now and take your next business event to new heights! Spacious Rooms • Fine Dining • Exquisite Cocktails

eldridgehotel.com 701 Massachusetts St. Lawrence

785-749-5011

V ISIT OU R WO N D E R LA N D I N -STOR E!

the corner on cool. 700 MASSACHUSET TS

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR

Soccer for Everyone A CONVERSATION WITH SPORTING KAW VALLEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KIRSTEN JUDD

Sporting Kaw Valley has provided youth soccer programming to children in Lawrence and surrounding communities since 1982. This is the first Academy Affiliate club of Sporting Kansas City, meaning they are branded under the Sporting name and strive towards a common goal of growing soccer in this community. A major goal of the Academy Affiliate program is to better scout and develop players, giving Sporting Kaw Valley a pathway to the pros. However, SKV knows not every child is destined for the big leagues; they are just as happy to teach the sport to three-year-olds who may be more interested in the post-game snack. Lawrence City Lifestyle sat down with executive director Kirsten Judd to learn more about the club and its community offerings.

LCL: WHAT IS THE MISSION OF SPORTING KAW VALLEY? KJ: Our official mission is to enrich lives and connect communities through the sport of soccer and to introduce the game of soccer to youth of all ages and skill levels to allow each player to develop at their highest potential. My personal mission for the Club is to be the best youth soccer organization in the Midwest. I want to ensure that all players in our program can grow as individuals, develop as players, and have fun.

LCL: CAN YOU START PLAYING AT ANY AGE? KJ: Absolutely! Soccer is a life sport. You can start playing soccer whenever you want. There’s no specific age where you’re too old or young. We’ve got a place for everybody at every age and skill level. It makes it really fun. Parents can also get involved with the local adult soccer league.

LCL: SO, HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE SUCCESS? KJ: Success will be different for every player and every skill level. For those players just starting out, success is having a blast with your friends and learning to dribble the ball without falling over it. For those destined to play at the next level, success is getting that scholarship to the college of your dreams. In my opinion, success is having a player pathway that allows players to develop, but most of all, where players can have fun. Players succeed most when they like what they do and are enjoying it. It’s been said that fun and hard work in youth sports are not mutually exclusive. You can have both and that is what I strive for. Part of having fun is the social aspect of soccer. Deep-seated friendships are often formed by coming to practice week after week and playing with the same group of kids. Some players start at a recreation level and they play all the way through high school with the same bunch of kids. Not everyone will stick with the sport or develop as fast as others, but soccer remains a very social sport regardless of how far you progress.

AT H LE T E LIF E | FITNESS

That’s why I say soccer is for everyone. There’s no “I” in soccer. It takes a team to play the game.

LCL: SO SOCCER IS PLAYED ALL YEAR? KJ: Yes, we offer soccer programming year-round. We have dedicated fall, winter and spring seasons. Then, our summers are built around summer camps and skill development. Recreation and Academy players play by the season, but our competitive players play ten months out of a year.

LCL: ARE THESE KIDS SERIOUS ABOUT PLAYING FOR A COLLEGE OR PROFESSIONAL TEAM? KJ: Some definitely are. We have had many players play at the collegiate level over the years.

LCL: CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR PROGRAMS? KJ: Sure, essentially we have four levels of play. The first level is Sporting Stripes, our preschool program for players three to five years old. These players play once a week for six weeks. Teams are formed by preschool when possible and coached by volunteers. At this level, we teach the fundamentals of the game and have lots of fun with the littles. The second level is Recreation. These are also teams formed by the school the players attend when possible. A volunteer parent typically coaches. We are grateful to have so much support from parents. We have about 200 volunteer coaches throughout the club every season which is awesome. We couldn’t do these programs without our volunteers. The Recreation program has a dedicated fall and spring season, which runs for seven weeks. The Academy is a mid-level developmental bridge between our recreation and competitive programs. As players move up to the next level, players devote more time to soccer. Academy players practice twice weekly and play eight game seasons in the fall and spring. Premier is our most competitive level. Our premier players play ten months out of the year and those months are filled with two to three practices a week, games, travel and tournaments. These teams are formed by tryouts that take place in June. No other program except Premier has tryouts.

LCL: HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT YOUR JOB? KJ: I think Sporting Kaw Valley is a special place. It has a rich history and a bright future and I’m happy to be a part of it. Just as soccer is a team sport, so is running a soccer club. I believe an organization is only as good as the people in it and I think we have the best leadership team, coaches, referees, players and parents in the business. I am excited about the future of Sporting Kaw Valley as we continue to grow and develop our programming, reaching more players and ensuring they are having fun while they are with us.

LCL: IS THERE ANYTHING COMING UP FOR SKV? KJ: Yes, on December 15th we open registration for the spring season, which will start playing in late March. All players register online at SportingKV.com D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

Now Enrolling For Fall Classes!

Family Friendly | Ages 2 and up

SunflowerStateDance.com 2004 E 23rd St Lawrence KS 66046 | 785-690-7200

MAINTAINING THE CLEANING IN YOUR HOME SHOULD NOT BE ONE OF THEM. LET MARVELOUS MOM’S HELP WITH YOUR HOME SO YOU CAN MEET YOUR NEW RESOLUTIONS.

785-979-1525 MarvelousMomsCleaning.com Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly • Special Occasions • One-Time Cleans Excellent Cleaning at an Affordable Price 26

PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE & CLEAN CHAUFFEURED GROUND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

4821 W 6th St, Ste F, Lawrence 66049 785-424-7015 / cbdoflawrence.com cbdoflawrence@gmail.com / Open 7 days a week

WHY ARE YOU CROSSING STATE LINES?! Everything you want is right here.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

A Child's Guide To Paris A LOCAL AUTHOR CREATES A NEW CHILDREN'S BOOK TO SPARK CURIOSITY ABOUT EXPLORING THE WORLD Thanks to the inspiration of two sweet dogs, Barbara Seaver has written a children’s picture book, “Homer & Virgil’s Marvelous Adventures in Europe: Paris Edition.” Filled with colorful, zippy illustrations by Zoe Larson, the story introduces kids to the City of Lights through canine eyes. Proceeds from the book will go to children’s hospitals and community organizations. The book’s main characters, Homer and Virgil, are based on Seaver’s King Charles Cavaliers. She and her husband, Robert, lived for years in Europe and got the dogs from an English breeder. Since the couple’s home was in Italy, they drove all over the continent with the dogs in tow. Seaver remembers, “We could not have taken them on a plane because they were just too big. So, they went with us everywhere we went.” During the COVID pandemic, Seaver reached out to Larson with her idea for the book, and it took off. She says, “I’m trying to provoke the interest in the children to travel, and I’m also trying to give children who may not have the opportunity to see the vision that there is another world out there.” Seaver’s book is available on Amazon. She’s signing copies at the 2023 Festival of Trees Breakfast with Santa on December 2 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Maceli’s on New Hampshire. A coloring book version will be at a signing at Swanson’s on December 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON WARREN

K I D S COR N E R | L IFE + CULTURE

Holiday Popcorn Balls A Kid-Friendly Activity to Make During School Break

POPCORN BALLS Adapted from a recipe by Naz Deravian in the “New York Times” on October 17, 2023, plus one from my grandmother we made when I was a child. Makes 20-plus popcorn balls

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • •

18 cups popped popcorn 2 1/3 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 1/4 cup mini marshmallows 3/4 cup light corn syrup 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra to grease your hands 3/4 teaspoon salt Mix-ins: M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, or any other favorite candy, cookie crumbles, sprinkles, crushed pretzels (optional)

DIRECTIONS: 01. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. Pour the popcorn onto a baking sheet (or two), removing any unpopped kernels. Put the trays in the oven to keep the popcorn warm.

02. In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the confectioners’ sugar, marshmallows, corn syrup, butter, 1 tablespoon of cold water, and salt. Place over medium heat and bring to a boil, constantly stirring, until the mixture becomes smooth. Take off the heat. 03. Take the popcorn out of the oven and pour it into a very large mixing bowl. Carefully pour the hot marshmallow mixture over the popcorn, stirring gently with a rubber spatula and making sure the popcorn is evenly coated from top to bottom. Then, let the mixture cool just a bit so you won’t burn your hands. 04. Rub a little butter on your hands, reach in, and pull out a handful of the warm, sticky popcorn—about 1/2 a cup. Gently squeeze into the shape of a ball. Add in the pieces of candy or other mix-ins. (If using sprinkles, pour them into a bowl and then roll in the popcorn ball.) 05. Wrap the balls in plastic wrap after they cool. No refrigeration is necessary.

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

GENDER NEUTRAL B O DY P OS I T I V E S A F E S PA C E W W W .V I N E S A L O N L A W R E N C E . C O M

D E CE MBE R 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Lawrence, Kansas. N EI GH BO RH O O D

ORIGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

1539 Lindenwood Lane

$187,000

100%

2514 Belle Haven Drive

$195,000

$196,000

101%

1414 W 3rd Street

$219,900

$216,000

98%

3012 W 23rd Terrace

$235,000

100%

2045 New Hampshire Street

$249,900

$245,000

98%

2501 Lazy Brook Lane

$260,000

100%

2412 Free State Lane

$279,950

$290,000

104%

2445 Jasu Drive

$309,900

$305,000

98%

2014 Stratford Road

$312,900

$321,000

103%

3608 Trail Road

$334,500

100%

4721 Carmel Court

$345,000

100%

3817 Hillsong Circle

$379,900

$368,650

97%

3107 Cottage Lane

$389,000

$380,000

98%

907 Andover Street

$395,000

$392,500

99%

5708 Plymouth Drive

$399,900

$415,000

104%

3908 Blazing Star Court

$449,000

$438,000

98%

918 New Jersey Street

$489,900

100%

308 Fort Laramie Drive

$599,000

$605,000

101%

410 Homestead Drive

$657,900

$670,000

102%

This data is a sampling of sold properties from October 2023. Source: Lawrence MLS.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 32

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS

Drunken Christmas Carol is Back! ARTICLE BY DENISE DETOMMASO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY FERGOLA

The show is written and produced by Ric Averill and the cast. He will be joined by his wife, Jeanne, and their children, Will and Trish Neuteboom. This is the first time the family has performed together. Also appearing is Patricia Ahern on the Steinway. This is a performance with a twist. Ric is the Designated Director. Jeanne plays Ebenezer Scrooge. Will is Tiny Tim, and Trish is the Ghost of Christmas Future, who shouldn’t have any lines. The rest of the cast is the audience! (After all, the title says none of the professional actors show up.) The Averills invite you to wear your worst ugly Christmas sweater or the most flamboyant, gaudy, sparkly holiday garb. And then let the hijinks begin! VIP table seating allows ticket holders to nominate audience members to play roles such as Bob Cratchit, Teeny Tiny Timmy, and Fezziwig. So, buy a table and put forward your best candidate for Marley’s Ghost, the Ghost of Christmas Present, etc. Cue cards are provided if necessary, so bring your reading glasses. And plan to laugh and enjoy this celebratory performance party.

PERFORMANCES: Thursday, Dec. 14 | 7:30 pm Friday, Dec. 15 | 7:30 pm Saturday, Dec. 16 | 7:30 pm

Be a Part of the Shenanigans This Month at the Lawrence Arts Center A well-loved holiday tradition will once again take the stage at the Lawrence Arts Center in December. “Drunken Christmas Carol, or The Time We Went to Uncle Morty’s but None of his ‘Professional’ Actors Showed Up, and So We Just Did the Show Ourselves, after a Few Drinks” is the retelling of Charles Dickens’s classic tale in a true comedy fashion.

B ACK STAGE | EN TERTA INME NT

TICKET PRICES: $30 Adult $25 Senior $20 Student Both in-person and livestream tickets are available. Visit LawrenceArtsCenter.org, call 785.843.2787, or stop at the front desk, 940 New Hampshire.

Thanks for voting me a “Best of Lawrence” Realtor!

Holly Garber American Dream Realty 785.979.7325 garber.holly@gmail.com

HOLLY GARBER - Your High Energy Realtor!

2108 West 27th Street, Suite E Lawrence, KS | 785-856-8011 paradisecarpetonelawrence.com D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AW R E N C E KS