IN Kansas City June 2023

WHAT MAKES A ROLEX A ROLEX?

It’s not the wheels and cogs. It’s not the steel we shape nor the gold we forge. It’s not the sum of every single part that we design, craft, polish and assemble with countless skills and constant care. It’s the time it takes. The numerous days and months that are

necessary until we can print this single word on each individual dial leaving our workshops: “Superlative.” It’s the mark of our autonomy, responsibility and integrity. This is all we make, but we make it all. So that, in time, you can make it your own.

#Perpetual

Carrie Dave Karen

Kimberly

Becky Elizabeth

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DON’T FORGET DAD

AWARDS HONOREES

THE KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISION

ANNOUNCES THE 2023 HONOREES FOR THE 50TH ANNUAL KANSAS CITY SPORTS AWARDS

THE KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

THE KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION ANNOUNCES THE 2022 SPORTS AWARDS HONOREES

ANNOUNCES THE 2022 SPORTS

ANNOUNCES THE 2022 SPORTS AWARDS HONOREES

AWARDS HONOREES

year, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation honors outstanding individuals for their commitment to, and achievement in, sports. The benefits are long-standing and this awards banquet celebrates all the positive aspects of sports.

THE KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION ANNOUNCES THE 2022 SPORTS AWARDS HONOREES

Each year, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation honors outstanding individuals for their commitment to, and achievement in, sports. The benefits of sport are long-standing and this awards banquet celebrates all the positive aspects of sports.

Kansas City Sports Commission and honors outstanding individuals for their to, and achievement in, sports. The benefits long-standing and this awards banquet the positive aspects of sports.

Each year, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation honors outstanding individuals for their commitment to, and achievement in, sports. The benefits of sport are long-standing and this awards banquet celebrates all the positive aspects of sports.

Each year, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation honors outstanding individuals for their commitment to, and achievement in, sports. The benefits of sport are long-standing and this awards banquet celebrates all the positive aspects of sports.

Each year, the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation honors outstanding individuals for their commitment to, and achievement in, sports. The benefits of sport are long-standing and this awards banquet celebrates all the positive aspects of sports. “

PRESENTED BY

PRESENTED BY

amount of talent, leadership, and success of our local sporting community. Sports continue to move Kansas City forward when it comes to economic impact, opportunity and inclusion.”

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

KANSAS

PRESENTED BY

“I’m amazed at the amount of talent, leadership, and success of our local sporting community. Sports continue to move Kansas City forward when it comes to economic impact, opportunity and inclusion.”

As Kansas City continues to generate unprecedented excitement for its national and international sporting events, these honorees represent the best of our local sporting community. Together, these individuals and their organizations play a critical role driving fan engagement, awareness and opportunity for Kansas City.”

PRESENTED BY

“I’m amazed at the amount of talent, leadership, and success of our local sporting community. Sports continue to move Kansas City forward when it comes to economic impact, opportunity and inclusion.”

KATHY NELSON

-KATHY NELSON, PRESIDENT & CEO

-KATHY NELSON, PRESIDENT & CEO

KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

PRESENTED BY YOU TO SPONSORS

PRESENTED BY THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

PRESENTED BY THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

President and CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission

CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

“I’m amazed at the amount of talent, leadership, and success of our local sporting community. Sports continue to move Kansas City forward when it comes to economic impact, opportunity and inclusion.”

& CEO

CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

“

“I’m amazed at the amount of talent, leadership, and success of our local sporting community. Sports continue to move Kansas City forward when it comes to economic impact, opportunity and inclusion.”

-KATHY NELSON, PRESIDENT

KANSAS

“

-KATHY NELSON, PRESIDENT & CEO KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

“

“I’m amazed at the

-KATHY NELSON, PRESIDENT & CEO KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION

commitment to equal for women not only resulted Kansas City Current but way for the first women’s training facility and stadium United States.

McCownGordon Construction

ANGIE LONG KANSAS CITY CURRENT working on a women’s basketball,

BRENDA EMMY AWARD-WINNING

Spire

The Jayhawks Basketball won NCAA Championship in North 72-69 securing Head Coach second national championship. Earlier in the year, the won the regular season Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Championship.

KANSAS JAYHAWKS

MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM

SPORTSMEN OF Polsinelli

BRETT VEACH

General Manager, Kansas City Chiefs

Brett Veach is entering his seventh season as the Kansas City Chiefs General Manager. During his tenure in that role, the club has won the AFC West every year, hosted five-straight AFC Championship Games and won Super Bowl LIV and Super Bowl LVII.

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR

CHRIS JONES

Defensive Tackle, Kansas City Chiefs

Two-time Super Bowl Champion, Chris Jones will enter into his eighth NFL season with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023. Jones has had four consecutive Pro Bowl campaigns. The defensive tackle was also selected to the NFL Player Association’s inaugural Player’s All-Pro Team following the 2022 season.

Spire

COMMUNITY CHAMPION

GRANT WAHL

In Memoriam Internationally Acclaimed Sports Journalist

Grant Wahl grew up in Mission, Kansas and became an internationally acclaimed sports journalist. Wahl was a highly respected and admired figure in the global soccer community, known for his passion and advocacy for the sport. Wahl spent 24 years at Sports Illustrated and created his own Substack, Fútbol with Grant Wahl.

LO’EAU LABONTA

Midfielder, Kansas City Current

Lo’eau LaBonta was one of the team leaders during Kansas City Current’s 2022 run to their first-ever NWSL championship match. The star midfielder holds club records in goals (8) and penalties (6). LaBonta was also named to the 2022 NWSL Best XI First Team.

OF THE YEAR

JEROME TANG

Men’s Basketball Coach, Kansas State Wildcats

Kansas State Wildcats Men’s Basketball Coach, Jerome Tang, led his team to a 26-win season and its 13th trip to the Elite Eight in his inaugural season. Tang is the first K-State head coach to earn the Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Coach of the Year honor.

T-Mobile LEGACY AWARD

RON LABINSKI

In Memoriam Sports Architecture Visionary

Often credited as the world’s first sports venue architect, Ron Labinski left a legacy as a sports architecture visionary. Labinski began his career as a project architect on Arrowhead Stadium. Later, he founded the organization now known as Populous, the world’s first architecture firm focused solely on sport venue design.

McCownGordon Construction EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR

Polsinelli

Children’s Mercy SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR

Burns & McDonnell COACH

For Dad & The Next Generation...

Did You Hear the One About?

The other night I heard a great shaggy dog story, but a true one, about a deputy sheriff who was also a magician and proud owner of a real, live lion. The lion was for his magic act, you see. The reason I’m sharing this tale is because it was told on a lovely, late May night on the front porch of a home in Hyde Park.

Only on front porches in the depths of summer, or possibly around a campfire, do you hear stories like that.

Whatever happened to front porches?

I’ve made much of the fact that I’ve had a tendency to move often and have lived in 11 different houses around town since I moved to Kansas City. Of those 11, only two had front porches. And I’m sure it’s no coincidence that, like that front porch from the other night, both of those homes were in Hyde Park, too.

Front porches are a magical thing, especially on long, languid summer weekend evenings, when there’s always someone’s front porch in the neighborhood that some strange centripetal force has made the place to be.

When I lived in Hyde Park, no phone calls were needed (texts weren’t even a glimmer in Steve Job’s eye). Everyone who was free just naturally drifted over sometime before sunset, often with a bottle of wine or a six-pack. Pizza might be delivered in a couple of hours, depending on the night. Some neighbors would walk by and wave, but most lingered awhile on the front steps, at the very least.

Because of front porches, neighbors become friends. That Hyde Park neighborhood was the place I formed many of the strongest friendships I have to this day. And I’m sure it’s still true for the families that live there now.

Front porches fell out of fashion with the rise of midcentury homes that focused all the attention to the back of the house—the patio, the deck, the wide swaths of leisure space. There were places to relax, play games, grill, and if you’re lucky, take a swim. No need to know the neighbors then. Now don’t get me wrong, I love those houses, too. I’ve lived in a few of them. But I never got to know and befriend as many neighbors at any of those houses as I did when we gathered on those Hyde Park front porches.

I’m glad to see that with some architects, front porches are making a comeback. We need a few more of those last-minute friendly neighborhood gatherings these days.

And about that deputy sheriff . . .

Zim

Vol. 6 | No. 6 JUNE 2023

Editor In Chief Zim Loy

Digital Editor Emily Laptad

Art Director Alice Govert Bryan

Contributing Writers

Susan Cannon, Judith Fertig, Cindy Hoedel, Cody Hogan, Damian Lair, Patricia O’Dell, Jenny Vergara

Contributing Photographers

Corie English, Maarten De Boer, Adri Guyer, Kevin Kuster, Aaron Leimkuehler

Publisher Michelle Jolles

Media Director Brittany Coale

Senior Media Consultants

Katie Delzer, Nicole Kube, Krista Markley, Josie Rawlings

Business Consultant Chad Parkhurst

Newsstand Consultant

Joe J. Luca, JK Associates 816-213-4101, jkassoc.net

Editorial Questions: zloy@inkansascity.com

Advertising Questions: bcoale@inkansascity.com

Distribution Questions: mjolles@inkansascity.com

Magazine Subscriptions:

Mail: IN Kansas City Subscriptions PO Box 292374, Kettering, OH 45429 Phone: 888-881-5861 Email: SUBS@inkansascity.com

Subscribe Online: inkansascity.com/subscribe

photo by aaron leimkuhler

INKANSASCITY.COM

ENTER TO WIN

Ramen and rejuvenation.

One lucky winner will receive a $750 gift card to AesthetiCare Medspa at their new location on Ward Parkway or their Liberty location for a laser service—your choice of a Halo Laser or Moxi Laser. e prize includes a $50 gift certi cate to Jinya Ramen Bar in Overland Park. Enter to win by June 30 at inkansascity.com/ the-magazine/enter-to-win. Good luck!

Ooh la la. e Strang Chef

Collective at Strang Hall in downtown Overland Park is presenting an occasional series of special dinners.

e June 5 meal is a French fusion-themed ve-course experience curated by Cole Suchka, chef de cuisine at Tora Zushi. One of the six distinct cuisines featured Strang Hall, Tora Zushi is a sushi-oriented restaurant, so the dishes for the dinner feature a special Asian twist on classic recipes. Suchka shares his recipe for a French cassoulet, but his version of braised cannellini beans with pancetta is topped with Japanesestyle panko breadcrumbs and served with seared sea scallops garnished with Argentinian chimichurri purée and alongside an Italian Parmesan frico wafer. For tickets to the French-inspired bistro dinner go to eventbrite.com. Find the complete recipe at inkansascity.com/eat-drink/recipes

Vision quest.

Craig Moore II has a vision for Kansas City. e founder and executive director of Black Excellence, a local organization that uses community, mentorship, and unique experiences to help Black professionals reach their full potential, is also Venture For America’s rst Kansas City director. As a serial entrepreneur, he understands the importance of diversity in sparking innovation. Combining his experience with these two organizations, Moore is working to make his vision of Kansas City as a hub of an inclusive, diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem connecting Black professionals with KC’s economic growth a reality. Read the full interview inkansascity.com

What you want to hear.

It’s prime time for summer concerts, from your favorite saloon to the T-Mobile Center, indoors, outdoors, and festivals, too. Chart-topping Grammy nominees are coming to town in June, as are progressive musicians you haven’t heard but should. Our music contributor, Timothy Finn, wraps it all up with a complete list of the concerts you won’t want to miss this month. Read his recommendations at inkansascity.com

This Month IN KC

June

WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AND WHAT YOU NEED TO SEE

by Emily Laptad

PRIDE MONTH SPOTLIGHT

activities planned throughout the month

KC PRIDE returns loud and proud with activities planned throughout the month to celebrate and recognize the history and heritage of LGBTQ+ people in Kansas City and beyond. Here’s your guide to Pride Month in Kansas City.

2023 PrideFest and Parade

June 9-11

Theis Park and Westport

Kansas City’s biggest Pride celebration spans three days at eis Park with a robust lineup of vendor booths and tables featuring food, crafts, art, and education, plus live entertainment on multiple stages throughout the park. e weekend is put on by Kansas City Pride Alliance and comes to a crescendo at 11 a.m. on June 10, when the 2023 KC Pride Parade begins in Westport. Head to kcpridealliance.org for the full parade route. It’s a free event.

The Queer Experience

Opening Reception

June 16, 5-8 p.m.

InterUrban ArtHouse

On display through August 2023,

e Queer Experience is a collection of works from LGBTQ+ artists, musicians, and storytellers who share their world experience. It’s a free event.

LGBTQ+ Film Festival

June 17, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

West Wyandotte Library

e KCK Public Library’s inaugural LGBTQ+ Film Fest will include showings of Moonlight, But I’m a Cheerleader!, and e Birdcage. It’s a free event.

Sixth Annual Pride Bar Crawl

June 17, 4-11:59 p.m.

Power & Light and Crossroads

Crawl to several bars across Kansas City’s Power and Light and Crossroads districts. Each stop will o er food and drink specials, and the evening includes a drag show.

Disney Pride in Concert

June 17-18

The Kau man Center

e Heartland Men’s Chorus is putting the magic of Disney into the chorus’s annual pride concert. Tickets start at $33.50

Pride on the Vine

June 24-25

Historic 18th & Vine District

Back for the third year, this two-day block party celebrates LGBTQ+ culture with live concerts, food, local business vendors, a fashion show, e Vine Street “Gayla,” and more. Tickets start at $25.

Business Pride Awards 2023

June 30, 6:30-10 p.m.

The Grand Hall at Power & Light

Dress as a color of the rainbow for an evening celebrating the community leaders, businesses, and organizations of the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Tickets start at $150.

Celebrate Juneteenth

June 2-3 and June 17

Historic 18th & Vine District juneteenthkc.com

JuneteenthKC returns with Juneteenth programming planned throughout the month that marks the anniversary of the emancipation of slaves in America. e o cial Juneteenth holiday is June 19, but the local nonpro t begins celebrating on June 2 with Strengthen the Vine First Fridays featuring local vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities from 4-9 p.m. Head over to 2000 Vine at 6 p.m. for A Night with Shawn Edwards & Don Juan: Growing Up Hip-Hop in Kansas City for a live presentation on the music genre’s 50th anniversary and how it’s shaped AfricanAmerican culture in Kansas City. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 3, JuneteenthKC presents the Sixth Annual JuneteenthKC Cultural Parade with over 100 participating organizations celebrating African-American culture and special performances by the Golden Feather Black Indians and Rebirth Brass Band. e festivities come to a nale on June 17 during the JuneteenthKC 12th Annual Heritage Festival with over 200 local food and retail vendors, two stages featuring live performances, and an interactive youth zone. Each event is free to attend.

For Kansas City’s most comprehensive calendar of events, go to inkansascity.com

Hosting Tips From My Better Half

BY Merrily Jackson

OUR RESIDENT HOSTESS SHARES SOME GUIDING PRINCIPLES ABOUT HOSTING, LEARNED FROM HER HUSBAND OF FOUR DECADES, JAMES B. JACKSON,

ESQ.

Ilost my darling husband this spring due to complications from advanced Parkinson’s Disease. He had been diagnosed in 2018; I never wrote about it here in the magazine because my column is about entertaining and there is absolutely nothing entertaining about Parkinson’s. But Jimmy was an entertaining guy, and he loved it when we had parties. Even at the very end, con ned to a hospital bed in our living room and unable to talk much or enjoy a beverage, he wanted to see his pals.

THE POWER OF GATHERING FRIENDS

e hospice nurse had pulled me aside on March 10 and gently informed me Jimmy had one week to live. “I’ve been doing this for 20 years,” she said, “I know the signs.” I was stunned, overwrought. Jimmy and I both thought he had more time. I debated whether to tell him, then blurted it out. He took the news collectedly, told me I’d done the right thing, his answer, a rm yes when I asked him if he wanted to see people. I got on the phone and the news spread.

I tried to schedule the visitors individually and gave up. en began what amounted to nightly cocktail parties around his bed with friends and family from near and far. People brought wine and snacks and took over my kitchen. I had stopped caring how my house looked. You can’t be house-proud when

Merrily Jackson and her dearest, husband Jim Jackson.

Jimmy’s Manhattan, Batched

ON THE EVENING of Jimmy’s funeral, I hosted a Celebration of Life at Lidia’s Kansas City. ey served heavy appetizers along with wine, beer, and the drink Jimmy ordered at restaurants, the classic Manhattan. He always ordered his up, but for practicality’s sake, Lidia’s bartender mixed the recipe in large pitchers and served it over ice. It was a massive hit and would be an easy cocktail for your next party.

2 parts Four Roses bourbon

½ part sweet vermouth

A few dashes Angostura bitters

Maraschino cherries (Lidia’s uses Luxardo brand)

Combine ingredients in a large pitcher and serve over ice. Finish with a cherry.

a family member is in hospice care, what with the mountains of equipment and medical supplies. e mess didn’t matter. e comradeship enlivened Jimmy like you wouldn’t believe. e one-week time limit came and went. Our patient wasn’t going anywhere.

TOO MUCH FUN TO LEAVE

Jimmy especially enjoyed that people he loved from far- ung locations were nally meeting. “I always knew they would like each other,” he said of two friends having a lively conversation.

e disease took its villainous course. He died on March 23, awake and holding my hand. It was almost a week longer than the nurse had predicted. I attribute those extra days to the fact that he was enjoying the company of his friends and family too much to go quite yet.

I thought it might be creepy to be alone in our house since it is where he died. But it’s not creepy at all. It’s comforting because I have good memories of those days before he died. And I know he is in a place more wonderful than I can imagine.

But down here on Earth, I do have some tips to share, based on Jimmy’s style of hosting.

THE ESSENTIAL HONEYDO LIST

Jimmy was rst-rate company, versed in many topics, a careful listener. My brother described him as “an oasis of good conversation.” In battling terminal illness, he was as courageous as anyone I’ve ever seen. But reader, he was never good party help. For many years, we would, as many couples do, bicker while getting ready to have people over. I felt like I had to do everything; it was a struggle getting him to do much to assist. I nally realized my independent-minded husband did not like to be told what to do. But he would cheerfully do any task, as long as I wrote it on a list and left it on the kitchen table. I also learned it helped to praise him lavishly for everything he did, even if it was going to CVS for ice.

Jimmy had simple tastes, and would talk me down from the ledge of whatever extravagant party idea I had xed upon. e easier plan always turned out just ne.

ACT LIKE A GUEST AT YOUR OWN PARTY

When the party started, Jimmy would just behave like another guest, relying on the other guests (read: womenfolk) to pitch in if I needed a hand. It’s how my dad behaved when my parents entertained, I guess that’s why I didn’t mind. Jimmy would be relaxed and having a good time and that spread to the guests. No one likes to have the host uttering over them, right? He was, however, always happy to share his single malt Scotch.

PIZZA, CANDLELIGHT, AND CONVERSATION

Last summer, Jimmy became too debilitated to leave the house. But he very much wanted to be with friends. I was taking care of him and had no inclination to cook. We began inviting people over for salad and pizza delivered from Minsky’s. I would set a pretty table in the dining room, as for a proper dinner party. Except it was just pizza. And Klondike bars for dessert. No one cared what I was serving. e conversations were what mattered. I think Jimmy would have been okay if this had been the menu for every dinner party we ever hosted during our 40-year marriage. As I said, he was a man of simple tastes. I sure do miss him.

Adaptive

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Our Man IN KC

by Damian Lair

dlair@inkansascity.com

: @damianlair #OurManINKC

Put Me In, Coach

By virtue of this column, I have had the great pleasure of nearly ve years (!) to experience the very best Kansas City has to o er. With that preface, I can say how incredibly unreal it was to be part of the splashiest moments of the 2023 NFL Draft, hosted in our incredible city. Bravo and thank you to the Kansas City Sports Commission. I’m still oating on clouds.

e three-day event spanned a three million-square-foot site (the largest draft footprint ever) from Union Station to the National WWI Museum & Memorial. e football eld-sized Draft eater (also the largest in NFL history) was the crown jewel. I attended the velvet-roped opening night and lucrative rst round of the draft. Surreal doesn’t begin to describe. Cheering for the draft picks within arm’s length of Jason Kelce, center for the Philadelphia Eagles and, oh yeah, brother to Travis Kelce. Being front and center for the rst pick, Bryce Young (smartly dressed in mauve Dior, I’ll note), as well as the nal rst-round pick— Kansas State’s Felix Anudike-Uzomah for the Chiefs. (Go Cats!) Even mundane things like being huddled around shared phone chargers with some of the night’s picks was oddly exhilarating.

Interwoven amongst the selections were some tender moments astutely curated by the NFL. I cried along with the bartender pouring my drink when Kyle Stickles, diagnosed with a rare bone cancer, ful lled his dream (via the Make-A-Wish Foundation) of announcing the rstround pick for his team, the New York Jets. e League also spotlighted various local charitable organizations along the way. roughout the event, it was impossible to ignore the sheer might of this organization. With a small army of on-site sta , precise operations, and several weeks’ worth of construction, it was truly something to behold.

e following night, I made my way to Azura Amphitheater for Kelce Jam—the music festival hosted and organized by Travis Kelce. First, though, I dropped by the nearby pre-party at Legends Outlets. I nibbled on some Jack Stack burnt ends, was a spectator for tailgate games on e Lawn, and met up with Chiefs cornerback, Trent McDu e. But I had to run to make it backstage for the Kelce Jam red carpet. To sum up that experience—Travis is huge, and he doesn’t like to be rushed when shoving back Papa Johns pizza. ey sent a dedicated food truck just for Travis and his backstage entourage. Oh, and I wound up shooting video for a short-sta ed Good Morning America interview with Travis. Every day is an adventure.

Flipping to the other side of the stage—somehow happily smashed against it—I enjoyed headliners Tech N9ne, Rick Ross, Loud Luxury, and Machine Gun Kelly. I also got a front-row view of Travis doing a “Lombardi luge” (pouring a drink down the Super Bowl trophy, funneling into his mouth) and subsequently spiking said trophy into the crowd. All-in-all a dumbfoundingly insane VIP night.

One nal draft-adjacent experience I participated in was just prior to the network cameras training their eyes on our city. The Great Kansas City Cleanup was a pre-draft beauti cation blitz. Bright and early, I joined KC Parks & Recreation at my nearby downtown Case Park. ere’s no embellishing this occasion; I picked up trash. I was lending a hand to clean one of our city’s 220 parks, which span 12,000 acres altogether, and it was a morning well-spent. I wanted visitors and viewers to see Kansas City with the same rosy tint I proudly do. And that’s the thing about civic pride; it doesn’t have to mean dressing up for a black-tie gala or doing something monumental. It can take other forms. Helping steward our city’s shared spaces for the bene t of all our citizens and visitors can give you goosebumps, too. And dirty hands. But mostly goosebumps.

Damian Lair at the Kelce Jam pre-party with Chiefs cornerback Trent McDu e.

Having a sunburn is so 2005.”

Our Man IN KC

WHEN HARRY MET DORIS

THIS YEAR’S Wild About Harry event, supporting the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum, was a roaring success. It’s an event that somehow gets better every single year. Truly. Each year, I leave inspired and renewed with hope for America’s future.

The 2023 Truman Legacy of Leadership Award honoree, Admiral Michelle Howard, certainly imparted hope. Over the course of her 35year career, she achieved many “firsts” in U.S. Naval history, including the first Black woman to command a U.S. naval ship and the first woman promoted to the rank of four-star admiral and the position of vice chief of naval operations (the second highest rank in the Navy). Her successes are matched only by the obstacles she had to overcome along the way—forging a path for many.

Also adding perspective and optimism was this year’s keynote speaker, the definitive presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Doris Kearns Goodwin. She began by boasting that the library, which she visited at length that week, “is the top of the top of Presidential libraries.” Quite the compliment, considering the source.

Goodwin’s remarks centered on 1948 and the 75th anniversary of that momentous year for President Truman. It was the year of the Marshall Plan, the recognition of Israel, the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, the Berlin Airlift, and desegregation of the military. “The Year of Great Decisions.”

Her overarching message was that “History is going to come to the rescue for us today.” These are turbulent times. Rogue aggressors rattle geopolitics or threaten America’s global standing. And at home, basic rights seem to be ever under attack. To paraphrase Goodwin, we’re not sure what our future will look like or how we might overcome. And yet, if we look back, we’ll remember that we’ve lived through really tough times before—the Civil War, the Great Depression, the early days of WWII—and every time we withstood those crises and came out the other side with greater strength. We have the good fortune of knowing what people at the time didn’t know—that the Civil War ended with emancipation secured, the Great Depression came to an end with mobilization for the war, and the allies won WWII. The people living in those times lived with the same anxiety we’re feeling now. But it’s up to us to write the next chapter of America’s story, just as it was to them.

One example Goodwin gave was Truman’s witnessing the heartbreaking homecoming experienced by hundreds of thousands of Black Americans returning from WWII military service. Americans who risked their lives in the name of freedom, and survived the horrors of war, found themselves plunged back into the Jim Crow segregation they’d left behind.

HOT GOSSIP:

Who wasn’t invited to speak, but shamelessly wedged himself onstage for an awkward photo op?

Sergeant Isaac Woodard—in uniform—tried to board a bus home in South Carolina. He was forcibly removed by a sheriff and beaten so badly that he was blinded. Truman’s justice department prosecuted the sheriff in federal court, where he was unanimously acquit-

OVERHEARD

“The breakfast burrito I’m holding could match tile patterns better than that.” ted by a Charleston jury within minutes. This unjust outcome stuck with Harry Truman.

As a result, a man from a slave state and belonging to a confederate-identifying family, Truman accepted the NAACP’s offer to speak to the organization (the first president to do so) at the Lincoln Memorial on June 29, 1947. The experience was a further awakening for Truman, who subsequently made the extraordinary decision to desegregate the U.S. military. A Gallup poll at the time indicated that only 28 percent of Americans favored military desegregation.

As a young college student, Goodwin was at the 1963 March on Washington, where she sang along with the crowd to We Shall Overcome. Unbeknownst to her, so was her future (presidential speech writer) husband, who was inspired by that same singing and later wrote in President Johnson’s pivotal address to Congress, urging passage of the Civil Rights Act: “But even if we pass this bill, the battle will not be over. What happened in Selma is part of a far larger movement which reaches into every section and state of America. It is the effort of American Negroes to secure for themselves the full blessings of American life. Their cause must be our cause, too. Because it is not just Negroes, but really it’s all of us who must overcome the crippling legacy of bigotry and injustice. And we shall overcome.”

Whether it’s prevalence over freedom-averse dictators, oceans away, or securing the blessings of liberty for whichever marginalized communities on our own shores have become the latest political boogeyman, we know that we Americans shall overcome. Because time after time, we have before. “Don’t dwell in the past”—it’s a common cliché. But perhaps if we spent a bit more time revisiting and contemplating our triumphant past, with its trials and challenges, we may be able to look at the future with hope that exceeds our anxieties.

SPOTTED: Honorary Chairs Ursula Terrasi & Jim Miller, Chairs Leigh & Tyler Nottberg, David Von Drehle, Marny & John Sherman, Ed Milbank, Jackie & John Middlecamp, Marlys & Mike Haverty, Jeanne Sosland, Jackie & Lynn Johnson, Maureen McMeel Carroll, Madeleine McDonough & Cyd Slayton, Sue Ann & Dick Fagerberg, Carmen Sabates, Dan DeLeon, Lauren DeLeon, Michael Henry, Douglass Adair & Juan Casas, John Rufenacht & Richard Lara, Troy Lillebo, Jacques Bredius, Sheryll Myers, Adam Davis, Barbara & Jay Reed, Patrick Ottensmeyer, Clifton Truman Daniel, Mark McDonald

ART POP

AMONG MY FAVORITE under-the-radar happenings are the biannual, end-of-semester student art sales at the Kansas City Art Institute. What’s better than hitting up the sale? Getting a preview and opportunity to buy early. Fortunately, for guests at ArtPop, previewing and partying were both on deck. ArtPop is an interactive, progressive

campus party that brings KCAI supporters into the studios to see artworks and mingle with students and faculty.

is year’s event, ArtPop: Muse, concocted a festival-like atmosphere with food, cocktails, and camaraderie spreading across the verdant campus. With all senses engaged, guests reveled in an energetic atmosphere with costumed performers, live music, roller-skating dancers, VR gaming experiences, trolleys, and food trucks. Guests could also tour the newest campus buildings, including Wylie Dining and Café Nerman, the Paul and Linda Debruce Hall, and the recently renovated Vanderslice Hall. Wrapping up the evening, we all jammed to the sounds of DJ Jon Marzette. Keep your eyes peeled for the next end-of-semester student art sale in late November or early December.

SPOTTED: Honorary Chairs Mary Anne & Steve McDowell, Event Chairs Scott Heidmann and Ken Petti, Sue & Lewis Nerman, Peggy & Bill Lyons, Sharon & John Ho man, Karen & Jack Holland, Maurice Watson, Dan Meiners & David Brinkerho , Lee Page, Kim Klein Goldstein, Katrina Revenaugh, Guy Townsend, Nicolas Mermet, Romain Monnoyeur, Ruki NeuholdRavikumar, Chadwick Brooks, Taylor Gozia, Kellen Whaley, Matt Anderson

DERBY PARTY

ON THE FIRST 90-degree day this year, it felt like an early o cial kicko for summer in KC. Protected from the sun’s rays under a lush canopy of century-old trees, I was at the Kansas City Museum’s annual Kentucky Derby party. Always a fun time, always great people-watching, and always sold out well in advance. is year’s twist on the classic derby theme involved a nod to Worlds of Fun’s 50th Anniversary (opened May 1973). So, in addition to plenty of hats and fascinators, guests were encouraged to incorporate a

HOT GOSSIP:

Who gave his besties three-hours notice for a slapped-together birthday night celebrating himself?

sophisticated ’70s or summer-camp twist to their ensembles.

Festivities on the historic grounds included live music by Boogie Nights KC, as well as yard games, a youth dance performance by Empire Dance Company, and a livestream of the Kentucky Derby (including the not-to-miss “Riders Up” call by our very own Patrick Mahomes). ankfully, cocktails were also owing—my favorite being “ e Mamba” with Lifted Spirits vodka, lemon, and strawberry jalapeño shrub. ere were also provisions by Union Horse Distilling Co., Boulevard Brewing Company (the new hard seltzer “whips”!), and nearby PH Co ee. Southern food bites were prepared by Brancato’s (fried chicken sandwich was the perfect choice), and desserts from Bootleg Bourbon Balls and Chill in the Village

Miss this year’s event? e summer concerts on the east lawn may tide you over until the next Derby Day. Held on second Saturdays, you can drop by June through September. Bring a blanket, some bites, maybe a bottle of wine, and enjoy summertime in the city.

SPOTTED: Mayor Quinton Lucas, Mary Kemper Wolf & Gary Wolf, Darcy & Lindsey Stewart, Rachel Sexton & Brian King, George Guastello, Elizabeth & Tom Paolini, Loretta & Tom Mentzer, Hoda Tavalali, Shomari Benton, Katie Van Luchene & Jerry Foulds, Elizabeth & Jeremy Bennett, Kristin & Dan Hilboldt, Jerry & Kellen Warmack, Erica Reed, Anna Marie Tutera, Paul Gutiérrez, Ron McGee & John Fulton Adams, Je Evrard

So, KC—where do you want to go? XO

Refresh your space with new furniture and artwork! Whether you are looking for large-scale pieces, chairs, a bench, or wall art to hang, we have a beautiful selection of high quality pieces to choose from. Come see our collection in-store!

FIVE THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE SELLING YOUR JEWELRY

The relationship that soured and the diamond engagement ring you just can’t bear to look at anymore. The family piece that isn’t to your taste. The designer clip-on earrings that now feel too heavy.

There are as many reasons why clients might want to “liquify their luxury” as there are jewelry designs, says Sicily Von Overfelt, director of Diamond Banc Kansas City. “Jewelry is a symbol that can come with sentimental attachments, good, bad or neutral,” she says. Either way, by appointment, she sees clients and talks them through the process of selling their diamonds, designer jewelry, and Rolex watches.

With no obligation, zero judgment and 100 percent confidentiality.

“One day, I may have a lady recently divorced who says the last thing on her to-do list is to sell her old engagement ring. Another day, it might be the owner of a small business who needs a short-term loan to cover payroll that month—without the bank involved—and hands me two Rolex watches from his personal collection to use as collateral,” she says.

Whether you want to “detox your jewelry box,” Marie Kondo another area of your home, or liquify unique assets to fund something else, Diamond Banc can help. “We provide clients with the infor-

mation and options to make the best decisions for their situation,” says Overfelt. “Our transactions are confidential, and funding is immediate.”

Here’s what to know before selling your jewelry.

UNDERSTAND DEMAND

Jewelry pieces by well-known designers such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Harry Winston, Tiffany & Co., and sterling silver lines such as David Yurman are still in demand.

Diamonds are always popular. Pearls, which can degrade over time and have saturated the market, are not. Likewise— surprisingly—gemstones (other than di-

amonds) are worth more in the piece of jewelry than loose. Precious metals in gold, platinum, and silver are also in demand.

The Top 3 in demand value are larger than 1.00ct round diamonds, Rolex stainless steel sports models, and notable designer jewelry, says Overfelt.

SELECT THE RIGHT BUYER

“We have a vast network of selling avenues we actively track as we take the pulse of the market,” says Overfelt. “For instance, a client with a vintage diamond brooch would not find much demand in the Midwest, but buyers in the South would love it.”

Look for a buyer for your jewelry that knows the industry and has multiple successful avenues to resell the items, a buyer who can cast a wide net to get the best price.

AVOID ONLINE BUYERS: THEY COME WITH RISK

You might have bought or sold items on Ebay or Etsy. But the more money involved, the more complicated it gets. Selling your fine jewelry online comes with risks.

Potential online jewelry buyers want the best of both worlds: the luxury, authentic item with the discounted price and will require authentication documentation and lots of professional grade photographs. You, the

seller, will want assurances that buyers are who they say they are and have the money to pay before goods exchange hands.

“There is rampant fraud with selling your own jewelry items online, read the fine print and take into consideration the time and e ort vs the potential return,” says Overfelt. Seller beware.

ORIGINAL BOXES, DOCUMENTATION, OR OTHER PROVENANCE INFORMATION CAN ADD VALUE

“A Rolex watch in the original box, warranty paperwork, and with the links for the band could add to its overall value,” says Overfelt. Likewise, antique jewelry with provenance (a personal letter, the original box, an invoice, a dated photo of someone wearing the item)—think Antiques Roadshow could add cachet or interest, which could impact demand. It all helps in the evaluation process, says Overfelt.

On appraisals—just because you have

Sicily Von Overfelt is a GIA Diamonds Graduate with over 16 years of experience in the jewelry industry and 10+ years with Diamond Banc. She began her career in retail diamond sales, where she gained extensive experience with designer brands, the intricacies of the diamond market and providing luxury client experience. Sicily is the Director of Diamond Banc in Kansas City, authenticating and purchasing pre-owned luxury designer jewelry, diamonds, and watches from the public.

one, doesn’t mean it is reliable. The jewelry and precious metals market is very dynamic and fluctuating. Also, the appraisal might be for retail value, as if the piece were selling in a store for a markup, rather than its liquid value.

SELLING YOUR JEWELRY DOESN’T HAVE TO BE UNCOMFORTABLE

Diamond Banc has a lovely o ice on the Plaza, not a dingy pawnbroker’s shop with barred windows and the cashier behind bulletproof glass.

You can make an appointment, have Sicily evaluate your items and provide you with the information and o er — the rest is up to you. Keep it, sell it, put it on consignment, borrow against it. It’s all confidential. No pressure, no obligation. Make the best decision for your situation.

Start the process today by going to diamondbanc.com or email Sicily to set up an appointment, sicily@diamondbanc.com.

by Judith Fertig photo by Adri Guyer

Eboni Fondren

THE JAZZ VOCALIST ANSWERS FOUR QUESTIONS

Growing up in Chicago with a father who is a musician and singer, Eboni Fondren remembers listening to what she calls the “dusties”—Golden Oldies to the rest of us—classic Motown, jazz, R&B, and Soul music from the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. “My early influences were doo wop groups, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, The Temptations, The Commodores, The Four Tops, Patti Labelle, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Prince, Anita Baker, and so many more,” says Fondren.

The family moved around the country for her father’s job, so Fondren was exposed to all types of music. She loves to sing a wide variety, so much so that her friends call her a “human jukebox.” Says Fondren, “Songs are special because they can be time-stamped with memories, or the lyrics just touch you so personally, or the beat is so good that you can’t help but groove. “

With regular performances at the Uptown and other venues, Fondren has even more in the works. “I have written some original music that will be featured on the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra’s new album coming out this summer and fall. I recently produced a one-woman show entitled Jazz: The Women Who Shaped Me. I hope to begin record-

ing on a solo project later this year as well,” she says.

INKC: You sing jazz, pop, traditional, and Top 20 music. How did you get started and what made you focus on jazz?

Eboni Fondren: I was bitten by the performance bug very early on. I was exposed to so many different types of music. College was where my love affair with jazz began. I was always aware of the genre and the great singers, but I think I thought Pop and R&B would be more of my lane until I heard a Diana Krall record late one night while out on a date. I was super shocked; she was a blonde, white woman from Canada. This was the music I needed to be singing. When I moved to Kansas City, I had one mission, and that was to sing this music. That is when I was introduced to all the great women who sang here: Ida McBeth, Lisa Henry, Angela Hagenbach, Karrin Allyson, Millie Edwards, Sharon Thompson, Myra Taylor.

INKC: What are some of the things most people don’t know about performing?

EF: The show must go on. Opportunities come and go in this career, and you have to be ready to be “on” at all times. Also, people see the finished

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Arts & Culture IN KC

product on stage. They don’t see the hours of rehearsal, set-up time, or costs involved in looking the look and playing the part, and I do have a jazz “look.” I absolutely love fashion and styling. I have always been drawn to the glamour of the glory days and the way the women dressed when they were on stage. Always to the “nines.”

I have been known to kick my shoes off on stage after an hour or two. There is sort of the inside joke amongst women performers about one-hour or two-hour shoes.

INKC: Do you have a favorite song, jazz or otherwise, that you like to perform?

EF: It’s always been really hard to pick favorites because my likes are so inspired by my mood, or what I may be going through at that particular time in my life. I can get fixated on an artist or a song and want to sing or listen to it over and over. I will say that I feel my most comfortable with a soulful groovy ballad like You Don’t Know What Love Is or Save Your Love for Me or The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face or I Can’t Make You Love Me or Come Away with Me. See what I mean?

INKC: Kansas City has had a long and storied jazz heritage. What do you hope to add to it?

EF: I love the rich history that Kansas City has. Jazz, from the instrumentalist perspective, has always been male dominated. But women were, more or less, the faces of the time. Since the 1930s, they sang this music all the while dealing with abuse, racial discrimination, and sexism.

At the end of the day, I honor these women. I want to be a representation of where they came from to where we are today and show how this music lives on.

With that being said, there is a tendency for local audiences to want to put us in the cute little “jazz box.” Just because I had a show Wednesday at this club, doesn’t mean you’re going to get the same show this Friday at that club. So, I want to encourage folks to come out and support and be open.

One of the most awesome things I get to do is sing all styles of music. I am blessed to be a member of Lost Wax, an awesome mega mash-up party band, and we cover everything from jazz to Motown to country and everything in-between. Kansas City allows me to have the best of both worlds and marry the passion with the fun!

I love that there is a new generation of jazz vocalists coming onto the scene. I love that styles are being infused and reworked and redesigned. What I hope people will not do is skip over us in the middle. I am not new, young, and fresh. I have been paying my dues for almost 20 years, and I am super grateful to be getting the recognition.

In an age where a lot of reinventing of the wheel is happening in music, there are those here who are raising our hands and saying “Hey, we’re still here!” I love to put my spin on classic standards, but I also appreciate and honor the art form and will continue to perform those standards while blending all of my influences into everything that I do and hopefully foster more opportunities to just do what I love.

Follow along at jukeboxxmedia.com/eboni-fondren

Arts & Culture

by Judith Fertig

VIRGINIA JARAMILLO AT THE KEMPER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

FROM JUNE 2 THROUGH AUGUST 27, Virginia Jaramillo exhibits her bold, linear, graphic art in Principle of Equivalence

In this rst retrospective of her work, the exhibit features 73 paintings and handmade paper works created over 70 years. Based in New York, Jaramillo combines modernistic in uences, science, cosmology, physics, postwar unease, archaeology, mythology, and her own unique perspective, deepening over time.

Jaramillo’s work has been part of groundbreaking exhibitions, such as e De Luxe Show in 1971, one of the rst major shows to be racially integrated.

Curated by Erin Dziedzic, director of curatorial a airs, Principle of Equivalence will be published as a full-color catalog and distributed by Yale University Press. For information, visit kemperart.org.

POTTING AROUND THIS SUMMER

ALL THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF JUNE, Belger Arts is offering hands-on weekly pottery classes from different instructors. And beginners are welcome.

If you’ve always wanted to channel your inner artist, send yourself to summer “camp” a morning, afternoon, or evening each week. Or you may have become hooked on the Magnolia Network’s For the Love of Kitchens , in which British kitchen designers Helen Parker and Paul O’Leary of deVol Kitchens bring back the handcrafted in furniture and hardware, as well as tile, teapots, platters, and more.

Whether you want to make something useful or something intriguing to look at, you can learn hand-building with blocks of clay or how to work a pottery wheel. If you’ve already started a pottery project, you could get help and guidance through an independent study.

For classes and times, visit belgerarts.org .

Arts &Culture IN KC

by Judith Fertig

KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY PRESENTS: STERN CONDUCTS MAHLER AND MONTGOMERY

WE’RE COUNTING DOWN to the last days of Michael Stern’s final season with the Kansas City Symphony, so take in all his concerts while you can.

On June 2 and 3 at Helzberg Hall, he will conduct the orchestra in a program of modern 20th century and contemporary music.

The evening begins with The Walk to the Paradise Garden by English composer Frederick Delius, who combines Romanticism and Impressionism in this piece written in 1907. This is an orchestral intermezzo from Delius’s opera A Village Romeo and Juliet. You could just get lost in this music.

Five Freedom Songs, another piece from contemporary composer Jessie Montgomery, was co-commissioned by the Kansas City Symphony. Montgomery is noted for using symphonic sounds to convey complex emotions and thoughts. Soprano Julie Bullock rises to the occasion and brings these songs, steeped in social consciousness, to life.

Symphony No. 4 by Gustav Mahler explores the soul through music of raw power. Mahler drew material from bird calls and cowbells, bugle fanfares, street melodies, and country dances to summon the lost world of his childhood.

For tickets and more information, visit kcsymphony.org

photo by todd rosenberg

ROLL OUT THE BARREL FOR AN AFTERNOON POLKA PARTY

A GLASS OF BEER or two is all it takes. You’ll be ready to polka the afternoon away at KC Bier Company on Saturday, June 10 from 3 to 5 p.m.

The live and lively music begins with Bram Wijnands, originally from Eindhoven in the Netherlands. Wijnands toured the U.S. and decided to stay in Kansas City, where he taught jazz piano at UMKC, so he knows his way around a keyboard, even if this one is attached to an accordion. He is joined by Jürgen Welge on percussion and vocals.

Polka originated in 19th-century Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic, and was popular in Europe and America. Perhaps one of the most popular songs is Beer Barrel Polka, written by Czech composer Jaromír Vejvoda in 1927 and popularized by the Andrews Sisters.

For more information, visit kcbier.com

It’s outdoor entertaining season, and the Greensman is on the menu to design and build the al fresco space you’ll enjoy all summer and fall. The Greensman is a full-service landscape design, installation & maintenance company. Call today to schedule a consultation.

It’s outdoor entertaining season, and the Greensman is on the menu to design and build the al fresco space you’ll enjoy all summer and fall. The Greensman is a full-service landscape design, installation & maintenance company. Call today to schedule a consultation. r

JOYFUL JUNE CONCERTS

Classical Concert Stern Conducts Mahler and Montgomery

Friday & Saturday, June 2-3 at 8 p.m. Sunday, June 4 at 2 p.m.

MICHAEL STERN CONDUCTOR

JULIA BULLOCK SOPRANO

DELIUS The Walk to the Paradise Garden

JESSIE MONTGOMERY Five Freedom Songs (KC Symphony co-commission)

MAHLER Symphony No. 4

Superstar soprano Julia Bullock’s angelic voice conveys a range of emotions in Jessie Montgomery’s socially conscious Five Freedom Songs and Mahler’s compelling Symphony No. 4. Tickets from $25. Sponsored by:

Classical Concert

The Rite of Spring, Ax Plays Beethoven

Friday & Saturday, June 16-17 at 8 p.m. Sunday, June 18 at 2 p.m.

MICHAEL STERN CONDUCTOR

EMANUEL AX PIANO

CARLOS SIMON AMEN!

BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 3

STRAVINSKY Le sacre du printemps (The Rite of Spring)

It’s an event when one of the world’s leading pianists, Emanuel Ax, plays Beethoven. Together with Stravinsky’s monumental The Rite of Spring, it’s a can’t-miss concert experience.

Tickets from $30.

Season Finale! Broberg

Plays

Rachmaninoff, with Puccini and Tchaikovsky

Friday & Saturday, June 23-24 at 8 p.m. Sunday, June 25 at 2 p.m.

VALENTINA PELEGGI GUEST CONDUCTOR

KENNY BROBERG PIANO

PUCCINI Preludio sinfonico

RACHMANINOFF Piano Concerto No. 2

TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 4

The elegance of Tchaikovsky and Puccini’s bold, heroic Symphony No. 4. Plus, Van Cliburn and Tchaikovsky international competition winner Kenny Broberg plays Rachmaninoff’s mesmerizing Piano Concerto No. 2. Pure genius! Tickets from $30.

2023/24 Season

Music Director Michael Stern’s Final Season

CLASSICAL, POPS and FAMILY SERIES

WHY SUBSCRIBE?

Concert after concert, no matter the music we play, you’ll have the highest quality orchestral experiences. These concerts will allow you to escape the everyday and feel the transcendent power of symphonic music. Unplug. Unwind. Be inspired.

Secure your season tickets now for the best available seats.

Visit kcsymphony.org or call the box office at (816) 471-0400.

Kenny Broberg

Emanuel Ax

Michael Stern, music director

Julia Bullock

Michael Stern

Look IN KC Fashion

BY Susan Cannon

THROWING ON A FLORAL FROCK DEFINITELY SETS AN UPLIFTING MOOD FOR THE DAY. THIS SEASON, THERE’S NO AVOIDING THE VARIETY OF BLOOMS THAT COME IN EVERY SHAPE FOR DAY INTO EVENING, AND THEY MATCH THE BRILLIANCE OF A WISPY PIET OUDOLF LANDSCAPE. TIME TO THROW YOUR GARDEN PARTY!

Wildflower

or

Summer tunic in silk, $150, by Kate McConnell Studio. Find at katemcconnellstudio.com

Urban Mining the rst weekend of the month (Gillham Plaza).

V-neck dress in cotton, $180, by Anthropologie (Town Center Plaza and Country Club Plaza).

La Ligne Erin dress in scallop-edged cotton with smocked back, $425, available at lalignenyc.com

Tilton belted tiered maxi in cotton, $445, by Apiece Apart. Available at Clique Boutique (Prairie Village Shops).

Elle dress in cotton. Wear belted or unbelted for an A-line t, $435, by Rhode. Find at Clairvaux (Fairway Shops).

Rosso35 dress in silk crepe de Chine, $720. Available at Hudson and Jane (Crestwood Shops).

Dries Van Noten printed kaftan in ne cotton, $580, available driesvannoten.com

One-Shouldered Dress, $190, at J. Crew (Country Club Plaza).

at

Farm Rio Garden maxi dress, $265. Available at Halls (Crown Center).

La DoubleJ Long Daisy muumuu in twill silk, $1,360, available at ladoublej.com

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Nail Art

THE LONG. THE NEW FRENCH. THE IRIDESCENT. THE MULTICOLOR. THE GELS. THE APPLIQUÉS.

BY Susan Cannon

Fun fact. Nail polish originated in China, dating back to 3000 years BC. Empirical women would soak their nails overnight in a peculiar mixture of beeswax, gelatin, and egg whites. Natural dyes made of orchids and roses were then applied to nails. is nail color was used by the ruling class only, to distinguish themselves from the lower classes. If commoners were caught with colored nails, they would be executed.

Well okay, not such a “fun” fact. However, ancient manicures were natural and leaned in the direction of “clean” beauty standards today. Not all processes and polishes are completely clean, but the nail industry is getting there. So, while we no longer need to worry about being picked o for painting our nails, we should at least be concerned about keeping our nails healthy.

Les Mains Hermes Nail Enamels

is intense color containing a high concentration of ultra- ne pigments. Its formula, made in France, is composed of at least 71 percent ingredients of natural origin. $50 each at hermes.com

Gucci’s Vernis à Ongles line contains none of the 12 toxins commonly found in nail polishes, including xylene, ethyl tosylamide, and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP). $30 each at gucci.com

Zwilling Twinox Combination Scissors have a precise and ergonomic design, with extra sharp blades to trim nails with meticulous accuracy. $40. Buy on zwilling.com

Appliqué Nails are an instant nail-art manicure. Clean nail-art gels made with vegan polish are toxin and cruelty-free, non-damaging, with no dry time, and they are removable with warm water.

Gelcare is an exceptional Canadian line of DIY gel nail-art products, including full kits with tools, LED

The new French manicure is dressed up with metallic sparkle on 1950s shaped long nails. Gelcare Silver Velvet is a unique polish that features particles that come to life with the stroke of a magnet. $21 for polish and magnet by Gelcare, available on lemanior.com

TIPS from the AMERICAN ACADEMY of DERMATOLOGY

Choose soak-o gel nails instead of acrylic nails so your own nails will be less likely to crack. Go to a salon that uses LED curing light rather than a UV curing light. It cures more quickly and emits less damaging UV radiation. Ask your technician to skip the cuticle trimming to protect your surrounding skin from infection. Reserve arti cial nails for special occasions to give you natural nails a chance to repair themselves.

of @ saruhnails

Aquamarine by botanist Jen Wonders for Appliqué, $18. Available at Welwythn (Prairie Village Shops).

Bachca Paris Precision Nail Clippers, $12. Available at The Grove Spa (Brookside Shops).

MORINGA, known as the “miracle tree” native to Ethiopia, Kenya, and western India, is one of the world’s most nutritious plants rich in calcium and iron. It is used to reduce in ammation and relieve arthritis pain, boost energy, and is reportedly bene cial for men in improving fertility and alleviating erectile dysfunction by increasing blood ow. It may promote prostate health and lower blood sugar. For women, moringa can aid in lactation, balance hormones and libido, and support bone health. Good Earth Tropical Mango Moringa Herbal Tea, $5, available at Sprouts Farmers Market, (Overland Park). Sunfood Superfoods Organic Moringa Powder, $17 (8oz.), at all Whole Foods locations.

CAMU CAMU is a berry found on riverbank bushes of the Amazon rainforests in Peru and Brazil. Evidencebased studies prove it to have the highest concentration of Vitamin C in the world. It is a powerful antioxidant, an extreme immune booster, while also helping the formation of collagen. Because of camu camu’s sour taste, it’s mainly found in the form of powders to add to smoothies, yogurts, oats, and salad dressings. Camu Extract Powder by Pure, $26 amazon.com; Mother Nature Organics Camu Camu Capsules, $27 (120 mothernatureorganics.com

BY Susan Cannon

Superfoods

SUPER NUTRIENTS FROM THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

I’ve enjoyed becoming a seeker of wisdom on the wide subject of wellness through my research for this column. For this month’s “superfood” subject, I wanted to go beyond the more commonly known superfoods (salmon, avocados, ginger, greens, cruciferous veggies, blueberries, chia and ax seeds, and so on), and I found it especially interesting to learn about plants indigenous to other regions of the world that have been consumed for centuries. Specifically, those found in the Southern Hemisphere that pack a nutritional punch. ese generally come in the forms of powders, capsules, teas, and oils.

SASHA INCHI is another remarkable plant from the Peruvian Amazon that has giant seeds with extraordinary protein content growing in clusters on a climbing vine. e seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well. It comes in pure powder form with a nutty avor and is a good supplement for breakfast foods or to integrate into smoothies, soup, and baked goods. Sasha Inchi oil is ideal for dry or mature skin as it helps to reduce the appearance of ne lines and promotes a balanced, even skin tone. It also has a rich avor and is suited for low- to medium-heat sautéing, as well as a avorful addition to salads and smoothies. Sasha Inchi Nut Powder, $25 (12oz.) on shop.davidwolfe.com

Sasha Inchi Oil $15 (16oz.), available on mountainroseherbs.com.

KAKADU PLUMS are an Australian superfood with a high potency of Vitamin C, just on the tail of the camu camu berries. ey also are a powerful immune booster and natural antioxidant source with phytonutrients. Known to have a stewed apple and pear aroma with cooked citrus and a oral musk note, they are good for jams, relishes, and sauces, if you can get your hands on the fruit. Otherwise, there are supplements, including Smidge Kakadu Plum Capsules. Kakadu plums are also hydrating to the skin, prevent burns scars, and promote skin radiance and luminosity. Haia Kakadu Plum Antiox-C Serum, $95 (1oz.), available on haiawellness.com Smidge Kakadu Plum Capsules, $50 (60ct) on getsmidge.com

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Find a Blaze dealer in your area on the Blaze website.

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Learn all about Blaze Grills

by Emily Laptad

Women’s Health IN KC Wellness on Demand

ADVENTHEALTH’S ASHLEY REHMSMEYER ON VIRTUAL CARE

you must be physically located in Kansas or Missouri at the time of the visit. Before your appointment, you’ll fill out all your registration details—identification, contact information, health insurance, etc.

If you have the tools available to record your temperature, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, and heart rate (such as an Apple Watch or home blood-pressure cuff), plan to take those measurements beforehand as well. Rehmsmeyer says you don’t have to have those measurements to complete a virtual visit, but any information you can share with your provider is always helpful.

“At AdventHealth, we use an integrated electronic medical record system called Epic,” she says. “This system allows us to see a patient virtually with audio and video, and then save their visit encounter into their patient chart. Any other healthcare provider at AdventHealth— and any other provider that uses Epic and is involved in their future care—may see this virtual visit encounter in their chart to reference at a future visit. If the patient has an online AdventHealth account, they are also able to review their own visit information in the patient portal to stay updated on their plan of care.”

VIRTUAL VS. IN-PERSON APPOINTMENTS

While virtual care has expanded over the past few years, there are still times when you’ll need to plan an in-person visit with your healthcare provider.

When life speeds up, and it seems like there’s always another soccer or dance practice to take the kiddos to, and your day-to-day calendar is filled with meetings, it can be challenging to squeeze in unexpected visits with your doctor when minor, unplanned medical questions and illnesses pop up.

That’s why many healthcare providers offer virtual health visits where you can save time while still getting the care you need to stay healthy.

“Virtual care has drastically evolved over the last few years, mainly credited to the Covid-19 pandemic,” says Ashley Rehmsmeyer, APRN, FNP-BC, a nurse practitioner with AdventHealth Medical Group Virtual Care. “When patients were quarantined, isolated, and confined to their homes during the height of the pandemic, healthcare adapted. Our goal has stayed the same: to take care of patients well, first and foremost. What has changed is how we see patients, as we have grown into offering a virtual platform that allows us to take care of patients from anywhere.”

Thanks to the resources put into elevating virtual care, the ease of visiting with your healthcare provider via telehealth—from your home, office, sitting in your parked car, or any place between—has continued even as our lives return to normal.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A VIRTUAL VISIT

To access a virtual visit with AdventHealth, Rehmsmeyer says, you simply need a computer or mobile device with video and audio capabilities. Also,

“Our goal is not to replace a patient’s primary care physician, but to be an extension of their care, allowing patients to be seen virtually when their PCP’s office may not have an appointment time available,” Rehmsmeyer shares. “We want to work with their PCP as a helping hand, connected in taking care of patients together.”

Your annual wellness exam, for example, still needs to be done in the office. And for serious or life-threatening symptoms—such as shortness of breath, chest pain, severe headaches, or severe abdominal pain— please be seen at your nearest urgent care or ER.

Meanwhile, many follow-up appointments and visits for minor acute illnesses can be done virtually, even with conditions that require lab work.

“For example, if strep throat or a urinary tract infection is suspected, I can order appropriate testing,” Rehmsmeyer says. “In other cases, certain bloodwork and chest X-ray imaging can also be ordered if needed. We let our clinic know the patient is coming for these tests, and they can stop by the selected clinic that same day and then leave after the tests are performed.”

At AdventHealth, the virtual care practice offers appointments Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For further information on their virtual care services, please visit adventhealthkc.com/virtualcare.

Nurse practitioner Ashley Rehmsmeyer.

by Patricia O’Dell

Easy Does It

IT’S ALL THERE IN BLACK AND WHITE

Acouple of years ago my husband gave me a handmade picnic basket that he stocked with exquisite 1220 ceramic plates, small—3.25 ounce—Duralex glasses for wine, linen napkins in a color that I love that he might not, and a Matador waterproof groundcover. is gift was incredibly personal and still highly functional.

and still highly functional.

I cannot discourage the high level of hunting and gathering, as a couple years later I nd his e ort touching still. at said, if you lack the time or energy to commit to this kind of custom selection, Williams Sonoma’s Sausalito picnic basket for four tucks everything in place leaving you to pick up dinner. My chef’s choice? If we’re short on time and he’s not cooking, it’s Brookside Price Chopper fried chicken. You won’t regret it.

Handwoven willow basket, on Etsy.

$55. Available from PlanetVineUA

Duralex Picardie glass tumblers, $30 for a set of six. Available at WilliamsSonoma (Town Center Plaza).

Handmade black-velvet porcelain plate, $24.56. Available at 1220ceramics.com

Matador mini pocket blanket, $29.99. Find it on amazon.com

Riviera o -white linen napkin, $104 for a set of four. Available at Terrasi Living & Scandia Home (Country Club Plaza).

Sausalito picnic basket, $164.95 for a set of six. Available at Williams-Sonoma.

Powder Your Nose—In Style

THE TINIEST SPACE in your home often o ers the biggest opportunity to surprise and delight.

Powder rooms are the perfect place to make a memorable impression. Whether your powder room is jewel-box like with rich colors and patterns, or crisp and clean with white walls, cabinetry, and classic blackand-white photography, it o ers the opportunity to provide an unexpected private moment.

From the moment I saw Homesong Market’s brass wall shelf, I’ve been envisioning it in a powder room stocked with rich hand lotion, a pleasing room spray, and perhaps a dish of mints. e small bowl in the same nish could house a handmade soap, while a Turkish towel hangs nearby. One-stop shopping for a complete room makeover is a busy hostess’s dream come true. homesongmarket.com

TOP SHELF.

Your guests deserve premium lighting, like these handsome black and gold pendants from Wilson

OVERLAND PARK 10530 Marty St. 913.642.1500

Mon-Fri 9 to 6 | Sat 10 to 5

Item #131482

Handmade

soaps, $22 each. Eleven varieties of soaps are available.

Brass wall shelf, $68.

Medium-sized brass bowl, $32.

Saipua

Turkish beach towel, available in olive green or light gray, $44.

by Patricia O’Dell

Al Dente Caliente

LIVELY AND LOVELY, ANTHROPOLOGIE’S NEW COLLECTION TURNS UP THE HEAT

Ellen Merchant is a decorative artist based in London, but we’re lucky to have products from her collaboration with Anthropologie available here in town. Her designs have a strong Arts and Crafts vibe, and she is inspired by antique textiles and botanicals. Melamine plates, bowls, pitchers, napkins and more—yes, there’s a pickleball set, too—are loaded with bright colors of fuschia, orange, green, and soothing lavender. ese products will kick o pool and patio season with air.

season

Ellen Merchant melamine dinner plates, $10 each.

Ellen Merchant melamine pitcher, $24, and tray, $34.

Ellen Merchant pickleball game, $64.

YOU’RE BUGGING ME

WHEN IT COMES to spring and summer in Kansas City, the month of June promises the best weather. Warm enough and not too humid, outdoor entertaining is at its peak. Still, it’s better safe than sorry when it comes to fending o bugs. The Corner Candleshop in Brookside has a charming selection of votives, poured candles, and holders that will help the buzz of your party come from your guests and not six-legged pests. thecornercandleshop.com

Flying insects container lled with citronella, $24.

Bee matchbox, $5.50.

Honeycomb jar lled with lavender honey candle, $34.

Bee and honeycomb votive cups, $10 each.

Cement bee votive cup, $12.

YOUR KITCHEN CAN BE A BLUE-CHIP INVESTMENT

Kitchens have become the heart of our homes. And updated kitchens certainly help houses sell. You’ve probably heard that when you remodel your kitchen, you could recoup a 75 to 80 percent return on that investment when you sell your home. That percentage generally holds true. But here’s the fine print: You’ll get a better return—and greater value—if you follow this designer’s advice.

By Judith Fertig

by Randy Van

SPEAK THE LANGUAGE OF YOUR HOME

Says Belgian-born Karin Ross, the owner of Karin Ross Designs, “Now more than ever, what you put in your home will add value—if it is done right. No matter when your home was built, whether it’s midcentury, Tudor, ’60s split-level, soaring ceiling heights in the ’90s, or a contem-

Photos

CONSIDER THE VALUE THAT WORKING WITH A KITCHEN DESIGNER CAN ADD

porary home, the architecture and style speak a certain language. Whatever improvements or remodeling you do needs to still speak the language of your home.”

That’s where a designer comes in. She can look at your kitchen space, and perhaps a warren of nearby rooms, with fresh eyes. Just because the refrigerator has always been in a certain spot, doesn’t mean it can’t fit better in a new layout. Maybe that peninsula would function better as an island. “Forget the idea of a work triangle,” says Ross. “Kitchens today have many interlocking triangles. Reconfigure the layout for better flow. Every house has a way. You just have to find the way.”

An extensive questionnaire for the clients and an onsite visit begin the process. “We get to know our clients and their home first, then present them with several design options and solutions,” says Ross, “after I have done all the research.” Like an antique expert or an art consultant who could point you to a piece of furniture or a painting that will hold its value, a kitchen designer can do a similar thing, says Ross.

Kitchen styles should whisper the language of your home and reflect your preferences, but remain timeless and elegant at the same time. “The design has to be right for the house and right for the clients,” says Ross. Heavy Georgian-style mahogany cabinetry in a ranch house might not be the right language. A stark white kitchen in a traditional home might not be the best match, either.

There are also ways to include personal preferences. “If maroon is a color you like, try to use that in other ways rather than in the more fixed elements of the kitchen, such as tile and countertop,” she says. “Art, decorative elements, tableware, linens, can all inject color and personal touches, but keep the overall look timeless.”

INVEST WHERE IT COUNTS

Keeping a timeless look and investing in good quality pay off. Splurge on a quality countertop or stove you love but save on a tile backsplash and flooring that may not be as noticeable. “A kitchen remodel should last for 15 to 20 years,” says Ross. “And after that, if it is done right, you should only need a few replacements to keep it functioning well and looking great.” Perhaps a new refrigerator or different hardware on the cabinetry, changing out a light fixture over the island. “The basic design, if it is done right, will be timeless and in keeping with your home.”

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME AND MONEY

When you work with a kitchen designer, says Ross, it can save you time—and money, not to mention stress. You could spend countless hours reading product reviews before selecting, then waiting for the product to come, then waiting again for someone to install it.

A kitchen designer keeps up with new products and knows what will work without having to read online consumer reviews. “We try everything we install before we put it in a client’s home,”

says Ross. “We try it in our home or in our showroom. That way, there are no surprises.”

There are no surprises, either, during the installation. Karin Ross Designs keeps products in stock, so no waiting. And Nick Ross, Karin’s husband, does the installation work with his team. “Our clients know we will take care of it all,” she says.

A timeless, elegant kitchen is a great investment that will pay dividends for years to come.

Eric Stonestreet IN CONVERSATION WITH

words by Cindy Hoedel

by Maarten De Boer

He’s best known for his Emmy-winning portrayal of Cameron Tucker in the ABC sitcom Modern Family, but Kansas City, Kansas, native Eric Stonestreet is just as famous locally for being a superfan and inner-circle friend of the Kansas City Chiefs.

The 51-year-old actor and comedian has a long list of TV and film credits, most recently providing the voice of Duke in the Secret Life of Pets films and hosting Fox’s reality competition series Domino Masters. Stonestreet recently wrapped a role in Season 2 of the Disney+ series

The Santa Clauses

Stonestreet attended Piper High School and earned a degree in sociology at Kansas State University in 1996, where he was also active in theater. He’s part of the “KC mafia” of top actors—along with Rob Riggle, Paul Rudd, David Koechner, Jason Sudeikis, and Heidi Gardner—who host Big Slick, an annual celebrity weekend fundraiser for Children’s Mercy hospital. Tickets for this year’s events June 2-3 at Kauffman Stadium and T-Mobile Center are at bigslickkc.org/events

Other philanthropic projects close to Stonestreet’s heart are the Vincent and Jamey Stonestreet Theatre Scholarship, named after his parents, at K-State, and the Vincent A. Stonestreet Family Fund at Kansas City Hospice, which provides services and grants wishes for pediatric hospice patients. kchospice.org/stonestreet .

Stonestreet, who lives in Los Angeles, is engaged to pediatric nurse Lindsay Schweitzer, whom he met at Big Slick in 2016. IN Kansas City caught up with him by phone recently when he was in town to host the NFL Draft.

At one point when you were young, your parents moved the family to a small farm. How old were you, and how did that change your life?

I think I was 4 going on 5 or something. It wasn’t a farm when we moved there, it was just five acres, but we were moving from 7th and Sandusky in Kansas City, Kansas, clear out to 110th Street near Piper, so it was quite a move, more for my brother and sister than for me because I was so young. My childhood memories kind of start from living out in the country.

Any memories of 7th and Sandusky?

Most of my memories from there were living next door to my grandma and

photo

grandpa. I definitely remember running over to grandma and grandpa’s house for candy and snacks and playing in their yard and sliding down their terrace on pieces of cardboard.

What are your fondest memories of living in the country?

Space and land. My dad always loved animals and I think if he had the opportunity to have gone a different way in his life, he probably would have been a veterinarian or a farmer. He was the inspiration for us joining 4-H and my brother having cattle and me having pigs by the age of nine or ten.

You speak glowingly about 4-H. What did you love about it?

So much of 4-H, I learned how much I loved after 4-H. As a kid, you’re going through stuff and doing things just because that’s what your friends are doing. You don’t realize the lessons that you’ve learned in life from something until you have an opportunity to apply it. And then you say, “Where did I learn this?” And you realize, “I learned this from being in 4-H and having animals.”

I had dogs and cats and goats and pigs to take care of from a very early age. What I was learning was that life exists outside my three-foot perimeter. When you are 10 years old and something is relying on you for sustenance, there’s no way that that doesn’t teach you responsibility and caring for others.

And I loved the fair. Every August was the Wyandotte County Fair and spending the night at the fairgrounds and just the camaraderie of all the kids with the animals. It was an idyllic time. I wish it was the same now, but it’s not.

After you graduated college, what was your first move in the direction of show business?

I went from Manhattan, Kansas, to Chicago and started my career there. I lived there for two years and then moved to Los Angeles in 1998.

By the time I got to LA, I was prepared because of the two years in Chicago—I loved that city. I had an affection for Chicago and had gone there many times before I moved there. I had a familiarity with the theater that I was going to study and work at, ImprovOlympic. So, it felt like the perfect place to go to season myself and to figure out if I wanted to do this career thing, this acting thing, and also if I was any good at it.

So, when I got to LA, I was ready for LA because I had taken the intermediate steps and put in the work.

Where did you live when you first got to Los Angeles?

I lived in Burbank, California—not Hollywood Hills, not Beverly Hills, not the hottest, hoppin’ place. Because of my work ethic, I lived where I felt comfortable and where I was close to my friends, where I could get an affordable apartment with a parking space. I’ve always been very pragmatic and thoughtful in my approach to the business of show business. It was never, “Here’s dad’s credit card, go have a good time.”

You’ve lived there a long time. You obviously love Kansas City, but what do you love about LA?

[Pause] It’s a hard question to answer. The easiest thing is to say, “I love

the weather,” right? And it is true that when you live in a place like Los Angeles, weather isn’t a topic of conversation. In Kansas City it’s like, “Is it going to rain today? I better take an umbrella.” “Is it going to be cold today, I better take a jacket.” In LA, it’s never a thought—it’ll probably be sunny, and it’s probably going to be 70.

I love LA because it’s the place where lightning in a bottle can happen.

What’s your quick take on the food scene in the two cities?

I love all the ethnic foods you can find in Los Angeles, but having been home in Kansas City more often in the last couple of years, our diversity in restaurants is very much expanding. I always tell people, “We’re known for barbecue but do not sleep on Kansas City Mexican food.”

How would you describe the nature of your Kansas City Chiefs fandom?

I’ve become friends with our general manager, and when Patrick became the starter, he said, “Dude, you’re not going to want to miss many Chiefs games in this next span.” Lindsay and I decided to get a suite so I could go to all the games. I do not miss a home game. I’ve been a season ticket holder from my freshman year in high school all the way through college, then my parents kept them for a while and then got rid of them.

It was a great full-circle moment for me to be able to get a suite at Arrowhead. It’s literally right above where my two season tickets were. There’s not many places where I’m happier than when I’m at Arrowhead. Manhattan, Kansas, is another place I would say is my happy place but being in Arrowhead at a Chiefs game is a perfect day for me.

I saw you on TV at the Super Bowl. What was that like?

I’ve been able to go to two Super Bowls. I skipped the one we didn’t win. Winning the AFC Championship that first year in Arrowhead and seeing Norma Hunt accept Lamar’s trophy—that was the pinnacle for me. Just to see us finally get over that hump and win the trophy that is named for the owner of the Kansas City Chiefs and the creator of the Super Bowl, that was a moment that I’ll never forget.

Going to the Super Bowl was just otherworldly. I had made a pact that I would never attend a Super Bowl unless the Kansas City Chiefs were in it. I didn’t know how long I would have to wait, or that I would get three chances at it. I’m just so excited that this is the run we’re on right now.

Your dad died of cancer a year and a half ago. What is the hardest part about him being gone?

Just the ability to give him a call. Ask him a question. I can’t think about

‘‘

There’s not many places where I’m happier than when I’m at Arrowhead. Manhattan, Kansas, is another place I would say is my happy place but being in Arrowhead at a Chiefs game is a perfect day for me.”

how many times I think, “Oh, my dad would know the answer to that.” Looking at pictures of him and thinking he’s just sitting in his chair over at the house, and he’s no longer there.

But mostly just being able to get his advice or tell him something good. He was my biggest fan. He loved everything that I did. He wasn’t always able to show that in the traditional way, but since he’s been gone, I can’t hardly go anywhere in the city when somebody doesn’t see me and say, “I knew your dad.” Or, “Your dad used to come in here.” Or, “Your dad was awesome and he talked about you all the time.”

I was up in Liberty in a sporting goods store and a dump truck pulled into the parking lot, and I’m walking in and the driver goes, “Oh, hey, I knew your dad.” A dump truck driver! Or I go into a café in North Kansas City, and all the waitresses knew my dad. It’s been a treat to have those moments.

In what way are you like your dad, and in what way do you aspire to be more like him?

My dad started off at a neutral level with everyone he met. He might have heard that somebody didn’t like you, and he was always a person that would make his own decisions with people. He always taught me that. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve applied that in Hollywood, where you hear stories and rumors about people and then you meet them and you have the most marvelous experience you could ever have.

Also being on time constantly. My dad taught me from a very early age, “Being on time is being late. Being early is being on time.” And that’s a saying in Hollywood that actors live by.

And, do what you say you’re going to do. Mean it. My dad never played the fool in a situation. He was very upfront and honest. You always knew where you stood with him. It’s hard for people to deal with. Most people put up a façade and say and do what they think they need to, to move through a situation. If my dad was mad at you or my dad was upset with you or disappointed with you, you knew it. He made it very clear, and then he moved on from it. He was very much a waterunder-the-bridge guy.

The thing I always go back to is how fair and just he was. He knew what was right and what was wrong, and he was always in the defense of someone else. He always stood up for himself and other people, and I aspire to be that way. In our business it’s very difficult to be that way, to take up the fight for other people but I try my hardest to always keep my eye out for—I don’t want to say the little people, but in Hollywood on a call sheet it’s divided up that way. People are above the line or below the line and I try to make myself as available and accessible to the crew as I can. Because I know that’s how dad would have been as an actor. He’d know everybody’s name and want to know how their weekend was. I’ve always tried to be that person.

Interview condensed and minimally edited for clarity.

At a recent Big Slick Celebrity Softball Game, Stonestreet signed a baseball for Aria Gonzolez.

FOR the RECORD

WE SCOURED THE CITY FOR FATHER’S DAY GIFTS THAT ARE SURE TO HIT ALL THE RIGHT NOTES

BOYS CLUB Leather-trimmed ask, $40, from Trapp and Company (Midtown). Leather Yardball by Sandlot Goods, $40, sandlotgoods.com

photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

ROOM TO SHINE

Clockwise from top left: Shagreen Vivo wallet, $220, from Trapp and Company. Randolph sunglasses, $297.50, from Hudson & Jane (Crestwood Shops). Salvatore Ferragamo wallet, $575, from Halls (Crown Center). Zegna tie, $320, from Halls. Naval Watch Co. watch, $375, from Guevel (Crossroads).

RED HOT Clockwise from top left: Michael Kors watch, $165, from Michael Kors Outlet (Legends Outlets). Cartography bolo tie, $255, from Ulah (Woodside Village). Brouk travel roll, $25, from Trapp and Company. Ron Cornell pocket square, $55, from Trapp and Company. Christian Louboutin card wallet, $450, from Halls

THE NATURAL

Clockwise from top left: KC Flyer coaster, $38 for a set of four, from Sandlot Goods. Classic leather key fob, $24, from Sandlot Goods. Rustico leather journal, $70, from Ulah. Raen Zafrique sunglasses, $175, from Ulah Mandarin Fig candle, $47.50, from Trapp and Company

YELLOW FEVER

Far left: Cartography necklace, $225, from Ulah Left: Coach earbud case, $64.99, from the Coach Outlet (Legend Outlets).

Above: Coach zip card holder, $150. from the Coach Outlet Below: Prada wallet, $625, from Halls.

BLUE NOTES

Riley travel watch organizer, $50, from Trapp and Company. Seaward & Stearn pocket square, $87.50, from Hudson & Jane. Prada sunglasses, $297, from Halls. Leather KC drink sweater, $10, from Sandlot Goods. Dibi tie, $45, from Ulah

BLACK MAGIC

Clockwise from top left: Alexander McQueen card wallet, $180, from Halls. Michael Kors watch, $180, from Michael Kors Outlet. Christian Louboutin wallet, $750, from Halls. Ralph Lauren sunglasses, $188, from Ralph Lauren Factory Store (Legends Outlet). Candle, $52.50, from Hudson & Jane

TRAILBLAZER

Clockwise from top left: Shinola watch, $795, from Ulah. Cause & E ect leather belt, $130, from Guevel Leather card holder, $48, from Sandlot Goods. Rustico clip leather keychain, $25. Edward Armah pocket square, $90, from Halls

DINING Alfresco

15 OF KANSAS CITY’S BEST RESTAURANT PATIOS

words by Jenny

If you stop and think about it, daring to enjoy a meal outside in the Midwest is a little like tempting fate. It is just you and your happy-hour patio plans versus Mother Nature, and she has a whole list of ways she could make your meal miserable—think ten plagues from the bible.

Yet when the sun is shining and there is a nice breeze, a restaurant with a great outdoor patio is a siren’s call most of us simply cannot ignore. It is a temptress that will make you call in well from work, leave your desk early, or take a long and luxurious lunch for a chance to dine outdoors. Restaurants and bars with excellent patios are always hopping, and people tend to flock to them once the temps finally get temperate enough to be outside without a coat.

In Kansas City, our outdoor dining options can take many forms. With all the patios, rooftops, parklets, sidewalk cafes, alleys, and even the parking lots that we partied on during the pandemic, many of us learned that even a parking spot with a few tables and chairs in front of a restaurant can be a magical wonderland with enough wine, candles,

Vergara

and outdoor twinkle lights.

From a restaurant-owner’s perspective, an outdoor patio can easily double the seating capacity of a restaurant, which also means it takes more labor to open and seat people on the patio, a pain point that most restaurants are still dealing with as they crawl their way back from the pandemic. So, if you arrive at your favorite spot to find the patio is not open on a beautiful day, know that if they had the labor to open it, they most certainly would because they want to take your money, as much as you want to give it to them.

With the sun shining high in the sky these days, it seems like the perfect time to round up a list of restaurant patios worth visiting in Kansas City. I have done my best to find patios in neighborhoods around the metro, and by no means is this a comprehensive list. If you have a favorite patio in your neighborhood, please go and support it. Come December’s cold chill, you will be thinking fondly of the time you spent outdoors on a patio this summer with your friends, I promise.

ELECTRIC PARK AT J. RIEGER DISTILLERY

There are several things that make Electric Park a standout patio choice this season. First, it is big with plenty of room to spread out, and it offers lots of seating. Next, the cocktails served on the patio are a creative selection of boozy slushies and ice-cold creations that all use J. Rieger & Co. spirits. Finally, the food truck this season at the end of the patio will be manned by a rotating selection of pop-up chefs, which means no two visits will feel the same. jriegerco.com/epgb

MESSENGER COFFEE

Sister businesses Messenger Coffee and Ibis Bakery share the beautiful three-story building near downtown Kansas City, serving up in-house roasted coffee and a large selection of amazing breads, pastries, and breakfast and lunch plates. They have also created plenty of spots to enjoy them, including their amazing rooftop deck, complete with a cozy outdoor fireplace and plenty of seating. Grab a cappuccino and chocolate croissant and head for the roof for your morning or midday pick-me-up. messengercoffee.co

SAUCED

Located at 19th and Main inside the courtyard of the Corrigan Station building, you will find Sauced, a walk-up counter in the heart of the city operated by Steven Blakely and the chef Jayaun Smith. Order online for carry-out or sit and enjoy it in the sun dappled courtyard with green plants and stylish picnic tables and swinging chairs. Try the One Hand burger, a single patty smash burger with sauteed onions, lettuce, tomato, and Dijon aioli alongside an order of seasoned hand-cut fries. u-hungry.com/sauced

EXTRA VIRGIN

Michael and Nancy Smith and their dedicated team at Extra Virgin have created the ultimate outdoor patio spot right on the streetcar line in the Crossroads Art District. The menu is full of delicious sharable items, such as chickpea fries with romesco sauce, cucumber salad with roasted peanuts and a trio of mezze spreads with pita bread to pair from their Mediterranean-inspired menu. extravirginkc.com

PERCHERON

The rooftop bar at the top of the Crossroads Hotel during patio season is a popular stop offering unique views of the entire downtown Kansas City skyline, in addition to a tasty food and drink menu. Here you’ll find dishes with a Mediterranean flavor, including bay scallop ceviche, crispy halloumi, and kofta lamb skewers to enjoy with a glass of wine or beer. Their cocktail list also has plenty of light and flavorful drinks, such as their strawberry negroni, a frozen orange-crush slushie, and a boozy Turkish iced coffee. crossroadshotelkc.com

FOX AND PEARL

Make reservations tonight to sit on the beautiful red-brick patio behind Fox and Pearl. Outdoor cafe lights and lush green plants give this patio a romantic sparkle, perfect for dining and drinking under the stars. Start with the potted cheese spread and pickles, then take your pick of proteins prepared by the chef Vaughn Good on the wood-fired hearth, such as pork or lamb chops, rib eye, smoked chicken, or grilled quail. The pasta dishes at Fox & Pearl should not be overlooked and can easily be paired with your favorite glass of beer, wine, or cocktail. foxandpearlkc.com

EARL’S PREMIER

With weekend tables still somewhat hard to score at Todd Schulte and Cory Dannehl’s Brookside seafood spot, Earl’s Premier, seeing guests seated on their outdoor patio is a welcome sight, as it doubles the restaurant seating and thus your chances for being able to find a spot to sip a frozen G&T or glass of rosé while you eat a dozen fresh oysters and the crispy fried cod and French fries as you watch the neighborhood kids play tag in the empty lot across the street. earlspremier.com

TAILLEUR

The cool and serene outdoor patio located behind Heather White’s French café on Main Street, Tailleur, is like a hidden oasis with direct access to parking, which is just one of its many charms. The tile-covered outdoor patio gives off just as much atmospheric charm with its woven French café chairs and white marble tabletops as the inside, where you are surrounded by antiques and equestrian embellishments. Come for coffee and pastries, a quick lunch, or leisurely dinner, where you’ll find steamed mussels in wine, quiche, niçoise salad, and steak and frites all on the menu. tailleuronmain.com

GRAM & DUN

Gram & Dun’s spacious patio has always ranked among the best on the Country Club Plaza to relax, dine, drink, and people-watch. There is not another patio in the city that can beat the incredible location, views, and hospitality. Guests relax on modern outdoor furniture or at highly sought-after tables ready to enjoy a full dinner, lunch, or brunch menu available to enjoy on the patio with a glass of whatever makes you happy. Reservations specifically for outdoor or indoor seating can be made from their website. gramanddun.com

RYE LEAWOOD

Although both Rye locations offer outdoor dining, it doesn’t get more peaceful or relaxing than the waterside patio at Rye in Mission Farms. The executive chef, Ryan Williams, invites you to enjoy a leisurely alfresco lunch on the patio. At dinner, savor hearty steaks, fried chicken, salads, and sides. For a bit of whimsy, stop in for a slice of pie or cake and a cup of coffee or cocktail on the spacious and welcoming patio. ryekc.com

VERBENA & THE MARKET AT MEADOWBROOK

Operating in the heart of Meadowbrook Park in Prairie Village, everything about The Market at Meadowbrook and its fine-dining sister, Verbena, feels like summer, including the cooling covered outdoor patios that show off gorgeous views of the park. The menus at both places are a reminder of summers spent on the East Coast, with popular dishes, such as New England clam chowder, crab dip, and a lobster and crab roll, alongside meatier dishes like a filet mignon, pork chop, or linguini and clams. verbenakc.com and themarketkc.com

GAELS PUBLIC HOUSE & SPORTS

There are certain spots in this town that have nine lives, and the building on Troost that is currently home to Gaels Public House & Sports is one of those spots. The current owners took a good bar and made it better by adding more televisions, more events, and expanding and enhancing the outdoor patio, which now is covered in beautiful blue umbrellas that make everyone look cool under the hot sun. The casual menu offers a mix of tasty Irish specialties, including cottage pie and shepherd’s pie, mixed with traditional American pub fare and a full bar pouring wine, beer, and patio pounders like a boozy Dole whip and watermelon spritz. gaelspublichouse.com

RESTAURANT AT 1900

Last fall, Restaurant at 1900 completed a redesign and expansion of the outdoor dining area in front of their restaurant, blending modern design with midcentury touches. A custom stainless-steel canopy with a retractable sunshade now covers the outdoor space where a Moreno quartzite water fountain creates a cool and shady spot. Enjoy the tasty lunch or dinner menu from the executive chef, Linda Duerr, that delightfully blends the produce of the season with thoughtful portions of beef, fish, and game in dishes that pair beautifully with their impressive wine list. therestaurantat1900.com

LA BODEGA

At La Bodega, the outside patio is always open to walk-in guests. Outdoor tables sit shaded under awnings, while colorful, lush planters define and decorate the seating area. Corner spots full of cushions make more room for guests to sit outside and enjoy a glass of Spanish wine with their selection of tapas, including the gazpacho, pancetta-wrapped dates stuffed with chorizo, and patatas bravas along with a pitcher of sangria. labodegakc.com

BAMBOO PENNY

There is no denying that the chef Penny Mufuka and Doug Mufuka have two of the best restaurant patios in Leawood located in the heart of the Park Place shopping center. The first is their open-air rooftop patio and the other is on the ground floor next to Barkley Square. Bring friends and enjoy your perch on the patio where you can people watch as you enjoy and order the Thai spicy sausage, tiger cry beef, pork laab salad, or Pad Thai a la Penny alongside a soju colada or hibiscus royale cocktail. bamboopennys.com

YOU YOU be

A SPRAWLING MIDCENTURY LEAWOOD RANCH IS TRANSFORMED INTO AN ARTIST’S HAVEN

ork from home” usually conjures up a dull home office. Not so with artist and designer Brady Legler, who works part of the time in New York City and part of the time in Leawood.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, Legler was living in a 20-story building in New York

words by Judith Fertig

photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

In the living room, blue dominates in the art, the velvet-upholstered and chrome Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams chairs, and the pillows. A Jeff Koons sculpture and the brass lampshade add a touch of shine.

Opposite: Homeowner Brady Legler with one of his paintings and a miniature yellow cab as a reminder of his New York City life.

City’s Koreatown, near the Flatiron Building.

“We were in lockdown. Everything came to a stop. It was surreal,” he says. “I had to get out.”

And so, he did. Back home in Kansas City, Legler found a 1959 Leawood ranch, quite by accident. “It was in proximity to both my parents’ homes, and I first thought of it as an investment,” he says.

But as interior designer and family friend Doug Wells of Wells Design Studio, who had worked on both Bob and Shelly Legler’s homes, got involved, “I could envision it for today’s living,” says Wells. So, walls came down, long hallways eliminated, dinky rooms enlarged, and a primary bedroom suite created with a large and luxurious bath. Wells’s

team guided the home’s de-

Left: An early Brady Legler painting is placed above a midcentury credenza that Bob Legler scouted at an estate sale. CB2 dining chairs custom upholstered in black boucle surround the glass-top table. The brass and acrylic pendant is from Wilson Lighting. The manniquin sports a spectacular Legler-designed necklace. Above: In one corner of the dining room, a painting by Lily Madden hangs above the Marcello Pozzi table.

sign from investment to haven, studio, and investment.

“Brady has very eclectic taste,” says Wells, “so we kept the space open and airy so his art and furniture could stand out. I worked with the architecture already in the house but made it work better.”

One of the through-lines appearing in each room is the color blue, which has a deep, personal meaning for Legler. “My dad was diagnosed with a rare thyroid cancer in 2003 and given only weeks to live. A neighbor suggested we imagine blue, the color of healing,” Legler says. “We have done that all this time, and my dad is still with us.”

Blue turns up in Legler’s acrylic canvases and in his custom rug designs, but also in more surprising ways. A female mannequin was put out for the trash on the streets of New York. Legler brought it to an auto-body shop, and had it sprayed—you guessed it—blue. She

Above: In a cozy sitting room, two vintage swivel chairs—estate sale finds—and a vintage coffee table are poised on a Brady Legler rug. Left: Just off the kitchen, more cabinetry, a second refrigerator, and open shelving make for an easy bar area. Opposite: Back-painted glass creates a sleek backsplash against the quartersawn-oak cabinetry in the kitchen.

A photograph by Shelly Legler dominates the guest bedroom. The chrome and glass lamps are vintage.

In the primary bedroom, the channel-backed bed is custom-made, as are the floating night table and silk curtains. The chrome and crystal table lamp is from Wilson Lighting. Below right: An expansive custom double vanity is topped by white Silestone. Below: The vintage chrome chair, in its original fabric, was a local estate-sale find.

now welcomes friends and family into the dining room.

Easy-going and self-deprecating, Legler likes to “seed” his home with other touchstone objects that remind him of his journey. He started designing jewelry and selling it at Halls when he was still in high school at Barstow. One of his early paintings hangs in the hallway to the bedrooms. After he left school at KU and admittedly floundered a while—“I thought my life was going nowhere,” he confesses—he got a chance to interview with Parsons School of Design: The New School in New York City. He came home, put together a portfolio, and was accepted in product design. The work of his mentors and friends pops up here and there.

“My love for midcentury furniture was fostered by Evan Lobel of

Interior designer Doug Wells.

Lobel Modern in New York,” says Legler. “Evan started selling my paintings at his storefront and on 1st Dibs during my junior year at Parsons. Lobel Modern has become a critical resource for interior designers, architects, and collectors of 20th-century designers.”

In the front dining room, a tornado-shaped “50 Stack Table” by Marcello Pozzi adds interest to a corner. A painting by Lily Madden and a toy yellow cab add spots of color.

The hearth and media room, right off the kitchen, features a dark credenza by John Widdicomb.

Legler liked the gray-veined Brazilian quartz that Wells suggested for countertops on the quartersawn-oak cabinets in the kitchen—crafted by George Crosthwait—so much that they also created a round kitchen table from it.

“I don’t cook,” Legler admits, “but I have friends who do, so they just come in and take over,” hence the large, open kitchen and the long dining table in the front room.

Off to the right, a hallway leads to Legler’s office, where he tends to his large, private clientele for his clean-lined, contemporary jewelry. A lounge area meant for listening to music is a “no Brady zone,” he jokes, with none of his work in evidence. A guest room in hushed shades of gray offers quiet luxury and a blackand-white photo Wired2Bloom by Shelly Legler.

But the biggest surprise is the large primary suite, a haven of havens also in restful gray, both in the upholstered headboard and the large marble tile in the bath. Quiet, subdued, spacious, and uncluttered, it boasts Wells’ signature custom Lucite knobs on closet doors and the best-use-of-space dictum in the large closet, where the washer and dryer are tucked away.

As for the studio, Legler works in the basement where he can paint large canvases, do detail work on custom jewelry, and design signature rugs. The light and airy feeling of the home’s interior upstairs allows his imagination to spark in any room.

“It’s great to work with people who let you run free,” says designer Wells.

And it’s great to live in a home that lets you be you.

2023 IDEALISTS OF THE YEAR

City Year’s mission is grounded in the unshakeable belief that we can all help make the world a better place.

We are proud to recognize 18 individuals who embody the spirit of idealism. They’ve shown a commitment to improving Kansas City by making a difference in the life of one person, an organization, or an entire community. Idealists of the Year were nominated by sponsors of City Year Kansas

on April 19, 2023.

City Year is an education equity-focused nonprofit that places tutors and mentors in schools to ensure more students are on track to graduate.

Elise Marie DiCarlo Nominated by Jeff & Amy Hargroves

Peter de Silva Nominated by Diederich, Simmons & Perez Team at Moneta

Lauren Ellenbecker Nominated by Turner Construction Company

Heather Hall Nominated by Curt & Rachel Petersen

Matt Heimsoth Nominated by Global Prairie

Jimmy Angelotti Nominated by VanTrust Real Estate

Kisha Bausby Nominated by JE Dunn

Isaac Hodges Nominated by Great Range Capital

Drew Holmes Nominated by Hy-Vee

Clare Isom Nominated by Polsinelli

Mark & Mary Jorgenson Nominated by Mark & Kathy Donovan

Shanee’ Kimber Nominated by UMB

Kerrie Lindberg Nominated by GEHA

Jayne Martin Nominated by the Kansas City Chiefs

Kenny Pointer Nominated by Mariner Wealth Advisors

Mario Rodriguez Nominated by CommunityAmerica Credit Union

Lynda Shillito Nominated by John & Terry Petersen

City’s Idealist Gala

In the Kitchen PURSLANE

BY Cody Hogan PHOTOS BY Aaron Leimkuehler

There is one group of plants that anyone can grow. Even with the blackest of thumbs, without trying, without a garden—anyone can grow weeds. A sidewalk with a crack in it, a neglected pot on a balcony or porch, that’s all you need. Fortunately, many weeds are edible, and some are even delicious when you know how to use them. One of my current favorites is purslane.

Purslane (o cially Portulaca oleracea), is an extremely common weed in many parts of the world. I rst learned of it years ago when I was removing weeds in the garden at Lidia’s and one of the Hispanic members of the sta asked if he could have the pile of eshy, tiny-leaved succulent-looking plants I had just pulled. When I asked what he was going to use it for, he said simply and as if speaking to a child, “comida.”

Upon further inquiry, he said he liked to quickly sauté it with garlic and a little crushed red pepper, a treatment that many vegetables respond well to. With a seemingly endless supply from my home garden, I tried and liked the slightly sour and refreshing preparation. Somehow, perhaps because it was hard to see past the fact that it was a “weed,” and it was growing in the “wrong” place, and perhaps because I almost completely eliminated it from my garden, I never really made purslane a part of my repertoire.

It wasn’t until last fall when I was in Turkey and the rst round of mezze came to the table that I was reminded of this wild edible. At rst I didn’t recognize it, heavily robed in yogurt, casually placed amid an assortment of tasty spreads and vegetable preparations. But

speaking no Turkish and my waiter speaking almost no English, I found a photo of purslane on my phone and after showing it to the man, he enthusiastically con rmed that it was indeed in my yogurt. After observing fellow diners, it was obviously intended to be eaten with bread, but was also consumed with just about everything else on the table. One bite and I immediately thought “I have to write about this!” Used raw, the tart vegetal avor and tender-crunchy texture of the purslane was beautifully accentuated by the tangy-creamy quality of the yogurt, the unmistakable punch of raw garlic, and just enough salt to make you go back for a second and then a third taste. It was delicious, similar to tzatziki, both new and familiar all at once, cooling and perfect for the evening heat.

Purslane and Yogurt Spread is is a no-recipe recipe, and one that can be easily adapted to other ingredients. e most challenging part of the recipe is acquiring the large handful or two of purslane. If you don’t have purslane growing in some unwanted place in your garden or sidewalk, try looking for it at the farmers market from the end of May throughout the heat of summer. It is sometimes available at stores specializing in Middle Eastern ingredients and produce (like Shahrazad International Market on Metcalf or Pak Halal International on 87th St. Parkway—I’ve seen it in both of those stores on occasion). Freshness is paramount for the best texture and yield (plants tend to shrivel and the leaves discolor and fall o after just a few days in storage). Regardless the source, be

sure and thoroughly wash the purslane as it can be quite gritty and seems to hold on to sand and dirt. Allow the purslane to dry brie y on a towel while assembling the rest of the ingredients. I like a ratio of approximately equal parts by volume of purslane and plain yogurt. For the yogurt, use a rich and thick one, like Greek-style yogurt or even labneh. Lacking those, plain yogurt can be thickened by straining it through a ne sieve or cheesecloth overnight to remove excess water. Peel, chop and smash a clove or two of garlic into a paste with about a teaspoon of sea salt, and combine it in a bowl with a very large dollop of yogurt. Pull the leaves from the stems of the purslane (if the purslane is very small and tender it can simply be coarsely chopped). Stir the purslane into the yogurt and allow it to stand for at least 30 minutes (a few hours is even better) to allow the avors to meld and develop. If you have no purslane, you could certainly substitute shredded cucumber or shredded young zucchini, or even nely diced celery, and any number of herbs, such as parsley, dill, mint and/or cilantro (which is basically tzatziki). To replicate the acidity of the purslane, a few squeezes of lemon juice could be added. Serve the spread drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil and a grind of coarse black pepper with a good atbread or crackers, either alone or as part of a large assortment of mezze. It also makes an excellent spread for sandwiches.

In addition to using the leaves in a yogurt-based spread, all parts of the plant are edible. Stems and leaves are welcome in salads, especially a Greek salad with tomatoes, onion, and feta. It can be added to soups, where its slightly mucilaginous quality functions like okra acting as a thickener, and the seeds can be added to baked goods or ground into a our. If all of those uses aren’t inspiration enough, purslane has one of the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids in vegetable plants. I hope you’ll be inspired to go do a little “weeding” of your own.

WEEDS

THERE ARE many edible weeds that have earned the “weed” designation because of their invasive nature or simply because they require a great deal of e ort to make them usable. For the curious and resourceful, they can be a fascinating and tasty way to make use of the bounty surrounding us. Remember, before you pick a strange plant and consume it, be certain you know what you’re eating. While many weeds are delicious, harmless, and nutritious, even more taste like nothing or are incredibly bitter and/or poisonous—bitterness is always a warning to the presence of alkaloids or other potential toxins. When in doubt, check with an expert like a county extension agent or knowledgeable herbalist. And naturally, avoid plants that have been contaminated with pesticides or other chemicals (like dandelions in a chemically manicured lawn).

Bladder Campion (Silene Vulgaris)

It may not win the title for sexiest name, but this rugged edible (also known as maidenstears, sclopit, sculpit, agriopapoula and collejas), native to Europe, has naturalized and become a wildflower in North America, especially right here in the Midwest. Young shoots and leaves, nutty and tasting of new green pea tendrils or bean sprouts, are delicious tossed in early spring salads—they emerge before almost everything in late winter, and provide fresh greens even when there is still a bit of snow on the ground. In older, more mature specimens, the leaves are stripped from the stems and either boiled or braised like other greens. In Italy, they are especially popular in risotto or a frittata. Seeds are available from growitalian.com. You’ll only need to plant it once!

Dandelion

Stinging Nettles

Not for the faint of heart, this boldly bittersweet weed can be delicious early in the spring, before long days and high heat increase its level of bitterness to unpalatable levels. Look for it along the edge of the woods where it doesn’t get long hours of direct sunlight (which increases the bitterness). Chicory, which is in the same family as dandelions, can be found in grocery stores (Whole Foods is a reliable source). In the wild, look for the tiny, pale colored leaves for the mildest flavors. Dandelion greens add complexity to braised greens (especially with smoked pork), and make an excellent addition to spring salads. Try the raw greens in salads dressed with assertive and/or sweet vinaigrettes. The sunny yellow flowers can be battered and deep fried as well as turned into an interesting homemade cordial.

Chicory, which is in the same family as dandelions, can be found in grocery stores (Whole Foods is a reliable source). In the wild, look for the tiny, pale colored leaves for the mildest flavors. Dandelion greens add complexity

Although originally from Europe, this prickly plant, a super food extraordinarily rich in antioxidants, is now found worldwide, and even thrives right here in our area. The plant has a very long history as a medicinal and food plant, but comes with a caveat—the leaves and stems of most varieties of nettles have tiny hairs that act like needles which can inject histamines upon contact with skin which cause a burning sensation in most people, so gloves and protective clothing should always be used. (If you learn this the hard way, wash the affected area and the burning sensation should pass in an hour or so.) The needling effect is eliminated by briefly cooking the nettles in boiling water. After blanching, the leaves can be chopped or puréed and used in many ways. In Europe, they are often found in spring soups, pasta doughs, and fillings, and as an all-purpose potherb (herbs/ plants that go into a pot with other plants for cooking). Available at farmers markets during the early spring or along the edges of fields and forests.

plants that go into a pot with other plants for cooking). Available at farmers markets during the early spring or along the edges of fields and forests.

Pokeweed

Also known as poke sallet, or poke salad. This North American native (Phytolacca americana) is found along the edges of forests, brush piles, or neglected farm areas. Often considered a “food of necessity,” many Southerners have a soft spot for this tricky weed. It has a subtle flavor and texture (in part due to the extended cooking process required to render it harmless!), like silken spinach. In true Southern (and Midwestern) style, it is perhaps at its best when long cooked with a noteworthy dollop of bacon grease. It pairs well with eggs and makes a delicious scramble or omelet. It can be used any way cooked greens are used, but remember all parts of the plant , especially in its mature form. Therefore, its leaves should only be consumed in early spring, just when the plant is emerging from the ground, and even then they should be boiled in several changes of water.

any way cooked greens are used, but remember are toxic

by Jenny Vergara photo by Corie English

In Your Cocktail NOKA

It is almost impossible to describe the look and feel of Noka, the chef Amante Domingo’s restaurant located on the corner of Martini Corner in Midtown. You simply must go and experience it for yourself.

Noka was inspired by Domingo’s late father, who was a farmer. As a homage, Domingo lovingly took the 150-year-old reclaimed barnwood from his father’s farm to build the shelves near the bar and back wall of the restaurant. Displayed against the wood are antique Japanese clay pots and a variety of wooden bowls and platters, all dramatically lit from behind.

In addition to the sizable bar, which offers plenty of seating, and the chef’s counter seats that line the kitchen pass, there are three large brutalist-inspired concrete tables that appear to have been poured into

place. Each communal table seats 20 people, and although some people at your table might know each other, others might not, so be prepared to mingle when you sit down.

The entire restaurant is bathed in flinty gray and natural stone tones; it feels both completely modern and incredibly biblical all at the same time. It’s a little like dining in the middle of a museum of ancient artifacts. Embrace the space as its own esthetic, as nothing in Kansas City is even remotely similar to this new Japanese farmhouse-inspired dinner and drinks spot.

The menu is made up of a rotating list of 20 small plates that can be shared with others or enjoyed on their own. The most expensive dishes center around meat and seafood, like the Japanese wagyu A5 ribeye cap, which comes in strips laid over a ripping-hot stone and

served with shaved tru es on top. e wild bass is seared over the open ame of a binchōtan charcoal grill before it’s brushed with a miso and black-garlic glaze, and the earthy risotto is served with a colossal wild prawn perched on top.

e only hint of raw sh on the menu can be found in the Kanpachi, or yellowtail sashimi, dish that is presented sliced on top of a bed of popcorn dust and drizzled in a vibrant and avorful shiso oil, and the sh roe topped with crispy potatoes. Vegetable dishes are plentiful with edamame, bok choy, shishito peppers, and more to enjoy.

Turning to cocktails, Noka o ers a tightly curated list of mixed drinks, curiously unnamed. Each features its own unique mix of tropical fruit avors, herbs, and vegetable juices combined with Japanese spirits ranging from whiskey to gin. ere is also a short and sweet selection of both wine and beer.

One of the most colorful cocktails on the menu is Gin #2, which could be considered a Japanese ri on the classic French 75 cocktail. It is made with shochu, a Japanese spirit made with sweet potatoes and rice, that is fermented in decades-old clay pots in Japan, similar to those that decorate the walls at Noka.

Using both Japanese shochu and gin, the liquor is shaken with a spicy and sweet ai chili kumquat syrup and a hint of lemon juice, which is strained into a coupe glass and topped with ginger beer instead of Champagne or sparkling wine.

e pretty yellow cocktail is refreshingly balanced and comes to the table at Noka with a bright orange marigold blossom oating on top. Consider this cocktail that little pop of color you didn’t even know you wanted or needed. noka.restaurant

Gin #2

2 ounces Jikuya Black Shochu

1 ounce Roku Gin

1 ounce Thai chili kumquat syrup*

. 5 ounce lemon juice

Shake ingredients together with ice, strain into coupe, top with ginger beer, and serve.

*Thai Chili Kumquat Syrup

2 cups halved kumquats

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

4 tablespoons lemon powder

10-20 Thai chilis (depending on how spicy you want the syrup to be)

Put all ingredients into a saucepan and bring to a boil, letting it simmer for 10 minutes.

Remove chilis from the pot and blend remaining ingredients in a blender. Strain the syrup into a storage container. Makes 1 quart.

Modern-American cuisine from award-winning Chef Linda Duerr. Chef Duerr and team present elegant fare and carefully curated menus for a variety of special occasions.

A spectacular, contemporary venue with transformable reception spaces and a magnificent courtyard.

Jenny Vergara

ORANGE BY DEVOURED

AFTER AN EXCITING and successful fundraising campaign through the crowdfunding platform Mainvest, Jhy Coulter and her partner, Brit Estes, have raised the $112,000 needed to open a brick-and-mortar restaurant for their mobile pizza pop-up, Devoured Pizza. e new concept will be called Orange by Devoured and will serve wine, beer, and tapas-style small plates, including gambas al ajillo, pesto arancini, and Portuguese marinated carrots, in addition to a variety of cloud-crust pizza pies they have become known for making in their Gozney Roccbox portable pizza ovens. Right now, they are working to secure a location near the Union Hill neighborhood and hope to open by the end of this year. In the meantime, you can nd them slinging pies at the Overland Park Farmers Market and Casual Animal Brewing Co. on Friday nights. orangebydevoured.com

OF COURSE KITCHEN & COMPANY

A COOL AND COMFORTABLE place with a southern exposure is what the chef Swetha Newcomb’s rst restaurant, Of Course Kitchen & Company, will deliver when it opens this summer. Serving New-American cuisine with South Asian in uences in south Overland Park, Newcomb’s intimate spot will o er dishes inspired by the chef’s own heritage made with seasonal Midwestern ingredients, bringing something entirely new to the Bluhawk shopping center. Seeking assistance from some of Kansas City’s top industry talent, Newcomb’s opening menu will feature familiar dishes with a cultural swirl, including dry-aged rib eye with whiskey chili sauce, braised short-rib samosas with blackberry tamarind chutney, seared scallops with Madras curry farro, goat cheese and masala potato fritters, and seared halibut with sriracha lemon butter with caviar sauce and coconut rice. Dessert o erings created by the pastry chef, Nikki Vavra, include Midori melon and white-chocolate cheesecake, a mango ras malai ice cream sandwich, and a vegan cardamom and Bisco rice pudding. e cocktail program created by Jay Sanders of Drastic Measures features a creative mix of o erings in addition to a bourbon/whiskey tasting list with options from all over the world. Eric Noblet, owner of UnKCorked, has designed a wine list full of new and Old-World selections, along with a by-the-glass menu to complement Newcomb’s creative cuisine. ofcoursekc.com

KC Current Summer nights with KC Current soccer are back on June 3, June 14, and June 18 at Children’s Mercy Park.

Worlds of Fun

The reimagined Zambezi Zinger is set to open to the public on May 26 at Worlds of Fun.

Kansas City Parks & Recreation

Make Music Day is a live, free musical celebration with concerts at venues and parks across the city.

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram to stay up to date on Greater Kansas City Attractions Association

Legends Outlets

Movie Night on The Lawn: Enjoy timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday!

Flavor IN KC

BY Jenny Vergara

BERKLEY BEER GARDEN

BY THIS TIME NEXT YEAR, Kansas Citians will be able to walk, ride their bike, or catch the newly expanded streetcar line to enjoy an ice-cold beer inside a brand-new beer garden with a view of the Berkley Riverfront. is planned riverfront amenity was four years in the making and was recently given the green light by the KC Port board. e Berkley Beer Garden will feature a new 8,200-square-foot indoor/outdoor structure designed by KEM Studio and will be open most of the year with a distinctive design made to blend in with its natural surroundings. It will be located near the grove that will, over the next few years, be planted with more than 250 trees and will also include the Heritage trail that runs along the riverfront. e structure will be two stories tall and features a sizable patio with plenty of seating. e rash Group, a development group from Mississippi who is also building a 120-room Origin KC hotel nearby, has been tapped to run the day-to-day operation.

Reservation for One FRENCH MARKET

by Jenny Vergara photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

As one of the key families instrumental in manifesting French café culture in Kansas City, the Quillecs have, for the last 25 years, been creating spaces and dishes that have allowed us to experience France through their culinary lens. It’s been a family affair since the beginning, when in 1998 they opened their first restaurant, Hannah’s Bistro on 39th Street, with Patrick Quillec as the chef in the kitchen.

Today, Café Provence serves as the Quillec’s flagship French restaurant in The Shops at Prairie Village. During the last 20 years they have been open, many family members have taken their turn in the kitchen or serving on the floor, creating a kind of familial muscle memory inside that restaurant that gets passed down from generation to generation. The result is a consistent experience across two decades of dining that has earned them a long and loyal following.

In 2013, the family opened French Market, a tiny little retail store

selling crepes and a variety of French staples. Six years later, Joanne and Patrick Quillec would move their popular market just a few doors down into a much larger spot in the Prairie Village shops with their son, Noah, now managing the new and improved French Market and another son, Phillip, serving as executive chef. In addition to the obvious family talent involved here, Amy Beeman serves as pastry chef for French Market with Claire Heiman as head baker. These two pastry talents are responsible for keeping the pastry cases and bread baskets full of elegant European pastries, French macarons, and more, and it’s also the hub where diners gather at the end of their meal to see what they want for dessert.

From the moment they opened French Market in this new space, it was clear this was a completely different animal than their previous spaces. The new market now had a restaurant and bar. It’s more spacious and casual, with an upbeat and lively vibe, especially com -

pared to the more subdued tone of its big sister restaurant, Café Provence. From the warm woods and colorful wallpaper to the white globe lights above the bar and the indoor and outdoor seating options, French Market had finally evolved into the vivacious French café it was always meant to be.

I found myself sitting at the bar at French Market with a girlfriend around 4 p.m., and by 5 o’clock the outdoor patio was packed, and by 6 o’clock the indoor dining room was the same. A true neighborhood favorite, French Market recently expanded their hours and launched a true dinner menu, and that is what I was there to eat.

The dinner menu is a one-page affair that changes seasonally, with a cohesive list of soup, salads, and small plates, and finally a few entrées that are always on the menu. That typically means they are too popular to remove, and that’s a good sign you should order them. So, I did. My bartender/waitress after a second glass of chilled Lillet rosé, suggested the poulet (chicken) cordon bleu, which my friend seconded along with a side of the carrot chickpea salad with cumin vinaigrette, which was served cold, had a good crunch, and was spiked with earthy cumin spice. I added the steak frites to our order because I wasn’t leaving without having this classic dish served with Hannah fries and a side of pesto aioli, an old favorite from their original restaurant menu.

Chicken cordon bleu is such an old-school dish one might dismiss it, but it is a classic for a reason. Here it was expertly prepared using an Amish chicken breast pounded thin, filled with a layer of Jamon de Paris ham and Emmental cheese before it is folded over then dipped in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs and fried golden brown. It’s topped with a tangy Dijon mustard cream sauce and served with a simple salad verte (a salad made with nothing but lettuce) with a zippy parsley and tarragon dressing. Everything about eating this dish was a delight. Cutting through its crispy exterior to find tender breast meat with salty ham and nutty cheese oozing out of the center was so extremely satisfying and comforting, and the green salad balances the richness with a leafy, cool crunch and a whisper of dressing.

The steak frites came exactly as advertised. You get a seared eight-ounce medallion of beef tenderloin topped with the vinegar tang and bright green parsley flavor of chimichurri. As good as the beef is, the pommes frites might be the star of the dish, especially when dunked in a side of their creamy pesto aioli. It is the best of both worlds, meat and potatoes.

For dessert, we ordered a slice of the cake of the day, which was coconut, and were treated to a light, white cake, frosted with buttercream and topped with a serious dusting of coconut. Although it was a bit cold when served, once it warmed to the room, the coconut flavor became more pronounced.

French Market is fun. A joyfully easy dining experience, complete with delicious dishes, excellent desserts, and a nice French wine list. They are serving some of the most popular American fan favorites of French cuisine, but what I learned from my dinner at the French Market is that café classics, executed beautifully, are like eating the prettiest comfort food made from the best quality ingredients.

How could that not be delicious? frenchmarketkc.com

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