IN Kansas City September 2024 by KC Media

SCULPTED CABLE COLLECTION

Fall Home Design Event

Now Underway

Up to 50% OFF

Entire Gallery including Custom Orders

Only the finest American furniture makers earn a place in Seville Home’s inspiring Leawood gallery. And during our FALL HOME DESIGN EVENT, all the stunning design and luxury is yours for up to 50% OFF, but only through Sept. 30th.

For 25 years, your local, family-owned Seville Home has delivered a unique furniture shopping experience that combines boutique-level service with our expansive in-stock collections.

We’re relaxed in our approach, generous in savings, and lavish in personal attention to your beautifully refreshed retreats.

Fall Home Design Savings Include:

• 50% OFF the luxury of Lexington

• 50% OFF the elegance of Vanguard

• 50% OFF the sophistication of Woodbridge

• 40% OFF Bernhardt Interiors Boutique

• A rare 10% OFF American Leather Comfort Sleepers

Kimberly Karen Becky Elizabeth

A full-service, in-house construction and design team: Ross offers both construction and design services under her supervision which significantl impacts the client experience for the better.

You’ve likely spent more time than ever in your home during the last few weeks. Perhaps now you have valuable insight into what your home might be lacking or how you can make your interior space better. Now is the time for beauty and functionality.

Impeccable attention to detail: Like the show-stopping interiors she creates, Ross understands the art of details and will bring the smallest of project elements to new heights.

The embodiment of luxury: When infusing luxury into a home remodeling project, Ross looks beyond price tags and instead embraces not only what luxury is, but how it makes a client feel.

Invest where it counts: When you work with a kitchen and bath designer it can save you time—and money, not to mention stress.

The art of trend-setting: Ross isn’t shy about crediting her Western European heritage for helping her cultivate a keen eye for interior trends.

“I set the trends; I don’t follow them,” she says

Savoring September

Movies in the Square

SATURDAYS IN SEP AND OCT (AT DUSK)

Movies on the big screen under the stars!

Sep 7: Sleepless in Seattle

Sep 14: The Little Mermaid (2023) Sep 28: Rudy Oct 5: Casper (1995)

Second Saturdays for Kids!

EVERY SECOND SATURDAY (10AM - NOON)

Free entertainment for mornings filled with play, laughter, and meaningful moments together.

Sep 14: Under the Sea

Oct 12: Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Guitars & Games

EVERY FRIDAY (6PM - 8PM)

Free live acoustic music and lawn games.

Wednesday Date Night

EVERY WEDNESDAY (6PM - 8PM)

Live music for a mid-week date night! Connect over a great line-up of pop/rock, country, and even reggae!

A Taste of Leawood

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 (7PM - 10PM)

Tickets on sale now for a private evening of dining under the stars with food and drinks from over 20 area restaurants, VIP experiences, and a concert in the center of it all! Tickets and details at ATasteOfLeawood.com

Visit ParkPlaceLeawood.com for more details.

Park Place is located on the northeast corner of Nall Avenue & 117th St., just north of AMC 20 Theatre.

__BRANDS

3x1

AEYDE

AGOLDE

AJE

ALC

ALEMAIS

ALEX MILL

ALIX OF BOHEMIA

ALLUDE

ALOHAS

AMERICAN VINTAGE

AMUR

ANINE BING

APPARIS

ASKK NY

AUTRY

BAUM UND PFERDGARTEN

BOUGUESSA

CLAIRVAUX

CLARE V

DAY BY BIRGER ET MIKKELSON

DEMELLIER

DOEN

DOLCE VITA

DONNI

E.L.V. DENIM

ENZA COSTA

ÉTOILE BY ISABEL MARANT

FARM RIO

FAVORITE DAUGHTER

FREDA SALVADOR

GANNI

GESTUZ

GUEST IN RESIDENCE

HUNZA G

JANESSA LEONE

JANE WIN

JONATHAN SIMKHAI

KERRI ROSENTHAL

KITRI

KULE

L'AGENCE

LESET

LITTLE LIFFNER

LIZZIE FORTUNATO

LOEFFLER RANDALL

LOREN STEWART

MAIAMI BERLIN

MALENE BIRGER

MARIA CHER

MILLE

MIRTH

MOTHER

MOUSSY

MUNTHE

OROTON

POSSEPROENZA SCHOULER

RACHEL COMEY

RAG & BONE

RAGBAG

RAILS

RAQUEL ALLEGRARE/DONE

RHODE

SAINT ART

SAMSOE SAMSOESEA NY

SIMKHAI

SLVRLAKE

STAUD

STILL HERE

STINE GOYA

TELA

THATCH

THE GREAT

TIBI

TWP

ULLA JOHNSON

VEJA

XIRENA & MORE

HIGHLIFE

Chronograph Automatic

MOVING FORWARD

Soul and Inspiration

Our September issue may not be as plump as Vogue or Vanity Fair, but we still love putting out our annual Fashion Issue. September heralds fall, and everyone is excited to pull out the cashmere and wool after a summer of linen (which invariably looks as though I’ve slept in it five minutes after I’ve put it on) and cotton. It’s the end of August as I write this; we’re in the midst of one of the season’s final (I hope) heatwaves. Switching up my wardrobe for leather and denim can’t come soon enough.

One of the best parts of my job is pulling clothes and accessories for the fashion features herein. Shopping our metro’s local retailers, who work hard bringing you the very best from their vendors, is a delight. They’re eager to show off what’s new in their stores for fall and winter. I’ve got my eye on a couple of things myself. There’s a gorgeous butter-yellow jacket that has my name on it (page 79). It’s time to replace a couple of my worn-in handbags, so that Dragon Diffusion bag on page 82 is high on the list.

I’ve followed the career of Isabella Emmack (our cover girl) since, literally, her very first shoot. Ten years ago, as the editor of Kansas City Spaces, we featured Isabella in the pages of that magazine. It wasn’t until I read her interview in Cindy Hoedel’s Q&A that I discovered that was the first time she had modeled professionally. Even then, before her signature gamine haircut, we saw something special. She’s still keeping very busy modeling, but now it’s in the pages of Vogue, Gucci ad campaigns, and walking the runways of Paris and Milan both spring and fall.

But wait, there’s more.

There’s an expanded Reservation for One, for one. Plus, a comprehensive compendium of new cocktail, wine, and HiFi (it’s definitely a thing) bars that have opened recently or will soon. The home feature is a stunner. And lucky you, it’s on the Renovation Sensation tour this month so you can check it out in person.

If you want to be inspired, read on.

Vol. 7 | No. 9

SEPTEMBER 2024

Editor In Chief Zim Loy

Digital Editor Evan Pagano

Art Director Alice Govert Bryan

Contributing Writers

Judith Fertig, Merrily Jackson, Cindy Hoedel, Damian Lair, Patricia O’Dell, Jenny Vergara

Contributing Photographers

Corie English, Cameron Gee, Kenny Johnson, Thomas Lavelle, Aaron Leimkuehler, Nate Sheets

Publisher Michelle Jolles

Media Director Brittany Coale

Senior Media Consultants

Katie Delzer, Nicole Kube, Krista Markley, Josie Rawlings

Intern Annie Woodson

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

Zim

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INKANSASCITY.COM

ENTER TO WIN

It’s glow time— no downtime. is month, we’re partnering with AesthetiCare medspa to o er one lucky reader a free HydraFacial. It’s an innovative treatment that leaves your complexion glowing, smooth, and ready to face the world. Signing up couldn’t be easier; just enter to win by September 30 at inkansascity.com/ the-magazine/enter-to-win. Best of luck!

Deliberating what to do tonight?

Discover the most comprehensive calendar in the metro—art galleries, dance, theater, social events, and music, music, music at inkansascity.com/events

Indulge. Making a magazine like this sends our team all over the metro. So, each month, we weigh in on our favorite local… something. is month, we’re talking desserts. Sweet dishes we would exclusively leave the house for—and oh, we have. Add to your list of guilty pleasures with our September sta picks on inkansascity.com

so arresting? What makes it at all? We spoke with Kansas

City neon artists and craftspeople to better understand this alluring mix of art and science. Read our feature in the Arts section on inkansascity.com

Get your pumpkin spice ﬁx. Do you smell it? Do you feel it? Before long, the leaves will be crackling, the colors will be dazzling, and the cafés will be peddling the warm, sacred sauce that is the pumpkin spice latte. Why not make it a pumpkin spice tour through the metro? We break down the area’s o erings at inkansascity.com

Hungry? Try out a new, local eatery tonight! From happy hours to the local restaurant scene, we’ve got the city’s most comprehensive dining guide. Check it out at inkansascity.com/eat-drink/dining-guide

This Month IN KC September

WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AND WHAT YOU NEED TO SEE

Terra Luna

by Evan Pagano

September 12–15, 19–22

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens artsandrec-op.org/arboretum/terra-luna

If you’ve

Explore a fantasy moonscape. walked through Terra Luna before, you haven’t forgotten it—and the event’s organizers are planning an even more unforgettable experience this year. Quixotic will once again transform the Arboretum grounds into a lunar dream with lights and live performances—many brand new. And for the rst time, the Arboretum is supercharging the surrounding attractions with a bevy of food trucks and vendors. Proceeds, as always, fund the Arboretum’s annual o erings.

Kids will love this event, but if you want a night free of little ones, consider attending the adults-only night— new this year due to popular demand—on September 19.

SEPTEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Night at the Tower

September 28

National WWI Museum and Memorial theworldwar.org/ night-tower

Support a Kansas City institution. Mix, mingle, and support the National WWI Museum and Memorial at this glitzy fall gala.

A general admission ticket gets you food and drink, free valet parking, tower-top views, nighttime access to the nation’s o cial World War I museum, and live music on the courtyard. Sponsoring the event unlocks several additional perks, including an exclusive cocktail hour, early access to the party, and reserved seating at the afterparty.

Art Festivals

Various dates and locations

Walk among the arts. For all the exhibitions and performances coming to Kansas City this arts season, local art festivals are the drumbeat that gives the season its energy.

e biggest of them all, of course, is the Plaza Art Fair. is sprawling, 240-artist event takes over Country Club Plaza from September 20 to September 22 . It’s the 93rd annual fair but the rst under Country Club Plaza’s new ownership.

e Plaza Art Fair, though, brings in artists from far and wide; for a more local avor head east to Southmoreland Park for the PeaceWorks KC Local Art Fair, formerly known as the UNplaza Art Fair, on September 21 and 22 . More than 130 local artists will be there, with proceeds bene ting them and the activist group PeaceWorks KC.

Other notable art festivals: Brush Creek Art Walk (September 13-15), a public plein-air painting competition; the Olathe Art Festival (September 27–28), with live entertainment, kids’ activities, and food trucks; and the 18th & Vine Arts Festival (September 27–29), which celebrates Black art, history, and culture.

Fall Festivals

Various dates and locations

A sensory season. Fall just gets the feels going. e air, no longer oppressive, is kind. It carries the scent of bon res and cool breezes. Views are awash with colors long forgotten, and your footsteps are met with a friendly crunch. Beer even tastes better.

Fall-centric festivals appear late in September as these senses grow stronger. e Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival (September 20–22) starts the fun with a parade, a car show, a marketplace, and munchies.

Overland Park (September 27–28) and Liberty (September 27–29) join the fun the weekend afterward, and if you’ve got the time, Lee’s Summit’s got the beer at Lee’s Summit Oktoberfest (September 27–29).

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

Visit booth 442 at the Plaza Art Fair to see Ed Brownlee’s ceramics.

3.1 PHILLIP LIM

AGOLDE

AKRIS PUNTO

ALEMAIS

ALEXIS

ALICE + OLIVIA

BALMAIN

CANADA GOOSE

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

DOLCE & GABBANA

FARM RIO

FRAME

GOLDEN GOOSE

GOOD AMERICAN L’AGENCE

LAFAYETTE 148

MESTIZA NEW YORK MILLY

MONCLER

MOTHER

OSCAR DE LA RENTA PRADA

RAG & BONE RAILS

SIMON MILLER STAUD

STINE GOYA

TANYA TAYLOR THEORY TWP

ULLA JOHNSON

VERONICA BEARD VINCE

VUORI ZIMMERMANN

BY Merrily Jackson

The Highly Functional Dining Room

As I write this, there is a nice man named Tony who for six days has been prepping—prep being everything in a 118-year-old-house—my dining room to be painted. I am having the entire room—walls, ceiling, trim, shelves, cabinetry— painted black. It’s something I never could have gotten away with when my darling husband was here to object.

e room has a co ered ceiling, bookshelves, lots of eclectic (read: not important) art, a drinks tray, and a window seat. With the black-painted walls, my intention, although I may fall at on my face, is to suggest a cozy study in a chic English country house. At very least it will be beautiful for dinner parties. Regular readers of this column know I have a round dining table with a glass top, which in the evenings re ects candlelight attractively, more dramatically so, it is to be hoped, against a

black backdrop.

For smaller homes like mine, round dining tables are wonderful. Probably not so much for your larger manses, where extendable tables are a great option for exibility. No matter what kind of table you have, or what color your walls are, you might like these tips for having a dining room that is truly operational for hosting fun, no-fuss dinner parties.

PROVIDE COMFY SEATING

Use comfortable chairs that encourage guests to linger. ose with supportive backs and padded seats are most suitable for dining, I like lightweight chairs that are easy to scooch in and out from the table.

KEEP YOUR DISHES ACCESSIBLE

I would never use my favorite tableware if it were hard to get to. Have a storage solution nearby for dishes, cutlery, linens. A sideboard, cabinet, or chest of drawers can keep everything within reach.

STREAMLINE TABLE SETTINGS

Keep table settings simple and elegant. Use neutral tableware that can be easily dressed up or down. To feed guests stylishly, all you really need in the way of dinnerware is a set of classic, unadorned white porcelain ten-inch dinner plates.

THE OLD SHEET TRICK

Crisp new bed sheets make terri c tablecloths. Wash them rst then throw them over the table straight out of the dryer—no wrinkles! You can nd a wide variety of inexpensive patterns and colors online.

NAPKINS: YOU WANT THEM SOFT AND OVERSIZED

Pure linen napkins, the bigger the better, are ideal. Don’t iron and starch them after washing unless you want your guests to feel as though they are wiping their mouths with waxed paper. Take them straight out of the dryer and fold them or pull them through a napkin ring. Never use paper napkins for dinner, darling.

AND FINALLY, HAVE A DINNER BELL

Ring a pleasant-sounding little bell to signal your guests that the cocktail hour is over, and it’s time to move to the table. is feels so much more civilized than using your voice to interrupt their conversation, and guests respond more quickly to the bell.

Entertaining IN KC

to soft, oversized linen napkins, Sferra Festival Napkins are the real deal. They’re sized at 20” x 20” and available in 101 colors; you can nd them at Terrasi Living & on $69 for

Here’s the shade of black I’m having my dining room painted. I’ve chosen at black on the walls, while the trim, ceiling and cabinetry will be satin sheen. PPG Onyx Black

I always have on hand a couple of packages of six white Cocktail Bu et Napkins from World Market, for napkin emergencies. $12.99 for six

Hosley unscented wax- lled glass votives aren’t available locally, but you can nd them on Amazon in lots of 48 for $39 Also fabulous in a power outage!

CRESTWOOD SHOPS

Entertaining IN KC

MY FRIEND Cindy Barnhill, a terri c hostess who owns Pear Tree Design and Antiques in Crestwood Shops, shared this keeper of a recipe with me. You could use it as the basis for a casual September get-together with friends. You make the grilled chicken and ask friends to bring seasonal sides, like roasted tomato caprese salad, fresh corn pudding, or maple baked beans. (Email me, I have recipes!)

3 pounds chicken pieces (I used mixed boneless skinless breasts and thighs, halving the breasts)

¼ cup kosher salt

2 tablespoons sugar

VINAIGRETTE

1/6 cup olive oil (not a typo)

1/8 cup lemon juice

1 clove garlic dash balsamic vinegar salt pepper chili ﬂakes (optional)

Dissolve salt and sugar in 2 quarts hot water in a large bowl and bring to room temperature. Add chicken parts and refrigerate for 4-8 hours.

Grill chicken over moderately high heat until cooked through. I like it with some grill marks on the outside.

Mix together remaining ingredients. Toss chicken in vinaigrette as soon as it comes o the grill.

Renée Fleming and Rod Gilfry

Entertaining IN KC

ASK MERRILY

Find answers to all your entertaining questions.

Q: We have some friends who tend to overstay their welcome when we host a party. What is a polite way to let guests know the party is over? We cherish our friends and would never want to be rude.

A: When the party is wrapping up, I like to set out pretty little bottles of San Pellegrino or Perrier water for guests to take for the ride home. Actually, any bottled water will do. People are thankful for the extra hydration, and it’s a hospitable way to signal the party is at its end. If they don’t take the hint, ask them if they would like a little extra water for the road.

Do you have a question about entertaining? Email it to mjackson@inkansascity.com

Pear Tree

by Damian Lair

dlair@inkansascity.com : @damianlair #OurManINKC

Lights. Camera. Sandwich.

If you know me well, it’s likely you also know my quirkiest obsession. e McRib.

I already know what you’re thinking. How does the person who created a caviar-embellished ice cream (for Betty Rae’s in last month’s column) mark his calendar for that roughly month-long period in autumn when the famous rib-shaped pork sandwich graces the Golden Arches menu? If you don’t share the same obsession (trust me, plenty do), there’s little point in me explaining.

So, when Kelly Magee, CEO and founding partner at Q39, mentioned over dinner and a Broadway show that Q39 was working on a very special rib sandwich, I swear I heard church bells ringing.

HOT GOSSIP:

Who witnessed a porta-potty hookup? As he said—”If you see it rockin’ don’t come a knockin’!”

To celebrate the (now o cially kicked-o ) football season, Q39 partnered with the Kansas City Chiefs new wide receiver, Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, to create a limited-time sandwich. During this process, Hollywood shared some of his favorite foods, condiments, and avor combinations with the Q39 chef, Philip Thompson. Together, they landed on the “Hollywood” Rib Sandwich. e sandwich is comprised of smoked and grilled pork rib eye, garlic aioli, pickles, shaved onion, honey barbecue sauce, and potato straws on a hoagie roll. anks to Kelly,

I was able to join Hollywood at Q39 for his rst o cial taste. I can not-so-con dentially share that during the “tasting” portion of the photo session, ompson had to quickly whip up another sandwich. Why? Mr. Brown liked it so much that he insisted on nishing it on the spot—leaving no morsel of a sandwich left to photograph. How’s that for an endorsement?

I, too, received a rst-run “Hollywood” sandwich. And let me tell you—it was a culinary triumph. It had all the distinctive avors of the quick-service sandwich I love, but elevated to an exponential level. e incredible smoky and juicy championship barbecue pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the pickles and onions and is further complemented by the sweet barbecue sauce—all products of Q39’s scratch kitchen. Everything is neatly nestled inside a hoagie bun with just the right amount of heft to support the substantial stacks of meat. It was sandwich perfection. If a single dish could be honored with a Michelin star—this would be so deserving.

I must regrettably report that, as you read this, the August-exclusive sandwich has been retired. A formidable substitute, however, would be the fan-favorite sandwich—Mr. Burns (cubed burnt ends, chipotle barbecue sauce, pepper jack cheese, onion straws, toasted bun). In addition to the 39th Street and Overland Park locations, you can check out the new Lawrence location, coming later this year. (A Lee’s Summit location is also scheduled for late 2025.) It was the most pleasurable experience sharing a sandwich with the remarkably humble Hollywood, but I look even more forward to watching him on the eld this season.

PHOTO BY LANDON

Marquise “Hollywood” Brown debuts his Q39 signature sandwich with Damian Lair.

Our Man IN KC

A Special Collection

At the gentle but persistent encouragement of Petra Kralickova, the executive director at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, I finally paid my first visit to this treasured cultural institution.

Located on the UMKC Campus, the museum’s purpose is to explore the meaning and significance of how art and play give meaning to our society. It accomplishes this by highlighting our shared history through the lenses of miniatures and toys. The museum is home to the world’s largest fine-scale miniature collection and one of the nation’s largest historic toy collections on public display—with more than 93,000 owned objects.

As is often the case, I did not arrive with aimless exploring in mind. For that, I will return. And there’s little doubt I’ll want to tell you all about it here. On this particular occasion, I was visiting for the opening of Portraits of Childhood: Black Dolls from the Collection of Deborah Neff. It’s an exhibit that I’d been eagerly awaiting.

This distinctive exhibit explores themes of race, gender, and identity through the lens of 135 handmade Black dolls dating from around 1850 to 1940. African Americans created these dolls for the children in their lives, including members of their own families and white children in their charge. Woven among the dolls are numerous period photographs and paintings depicting Black dolls posed alongside both children and adults during this period. Adding further context is an African-American history timeline, alongside dolls from corresponding timeframes, providing a historical scaffold for these dolls’ place in time. A selection of more recent Black dolls from the Museum’s collection provides additional perspectives for consideration.

HOT

GOSSIP: What sleuth-y downtown dweller spotted a wanted property vandal, leading to a quick felony arrest?

Also incorporated are a series of interpretative writings from prominent voices in Kansas City’s Black community, sought by the exhibit’s curators. These reflections on the collection offer yet another vantage point for rumination—the unusual ability to witness these dolls through another person’s eyes.

Speaking at the opening reception was a lovely and familiar face—Natasha Ria El-Scari. She spoke, as she often does, in

OVERHEARD

“So, you only have boxed wine? OK. I guess I’ll have your best box then.”

part poem, part beauty-salon gossip vernacular. Listening to her always conjures joy. Natasha spoke about her role serving on the advisory group assembled by the exhibit’s curators. Hardly a DEI checklist (as she put it), this highly invested group had questions. “Who owns these? Where did they get them? Who made them? Why have we never seen them? Where has this history been? Is this OK? Is there a word for the feeling when someone knows the history of your people that you don’t?”

These questions and more required subsequent thoughtful dialogue and meetings, which led to changes, compromises, addendums, and retractions in the developing exhibit. The ultimate result is a case study in the power of inviting others into a sensitive process, with no fear, guardrails, or expectations for where that process may lead.

Natasha spoke about the advisors’ collective wish to protect what they saw while simultaneously shielding their eyes. It felt “inappropriate, hard, and unpleasant” and created a charge for which they weren’t prepared.

While viewing from an altogether different perspective, I was moved. These objects are a tangible manifestation of ordinary people’s ingenuity and resourcefulness. They used what was available to them— animal fur, wood, leather, feed sacks, paper, fabric remnants—and molded the common materials together into objects of love for children. The exhibit was assembled and presented with sensitivity, compassion, and intention. It also felt very important. According to sources, including The New York Times and The Smithsonian Institution, this collection is one of the finest of its kind ever to be assembled. You can visit the exhibit at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures through March 3.

SPOTTED: Patricia Miller, Susan Stanton, Amy Embry, John Paul Wong, Susan Spencer, Eric Dorfman, Don Schreiner & John Escalada, Adrienne Clayton, Rebecca Ehrich, Melvin Brooks, Hilari Holt, Kevin Church Johnson

TACO TRAIL PARTY BUS

I LOVE TACOS. And I love parties. So, when I heard about the KCK Taco Trail Party Bus, I couldn’t sign up fast enough. Operated by The Red Machine Bus, this bookable adventure will take you and roughly 20 others on an initial foray into the KCK Taco Trail, envisioned by Visit Kansas City Kansas.

Tours are scheduled roughly every week across the summer and autumn and are organized around a particular protein, e.g., al pastor, carnitas, carne asada, chorizo, etc. While carnitas is my jam, schedules aligned for me to do a chicken tour. And who doesn’t like chicken?

Each bus tour includes four KCK taqueria stops. At the conclusion of each tasting, guests rate the experience, leading to an overall taqueria winner. And, naturally, guests log each stop on the official KCK Taco Trail Passport, earning points along the way. In between

Doll in gentleman’s top coat, circa 186070, from the Deborah Neff Collection.

stops, we sipped on the provided brews and gratefully accepted margaritas that one of our bus mates was shaking up. The power of community!

On this particular tour—again, arranged around chicken—we visited Tacos El Tio, Pollos El Junior, El Pollo Rey, and Tacos El Viejon. All were completely delicious, authentic, and meritorious of my return for a full meal. The surprising takeaway (for me and many others) was how different each taco creation was. There were wildly different chicken flavor profiles, due to preparation techniques. Some came with sauces or salsas; some were delightfully simple without. And there was an array of varying accoutrements. With tacos, the sky’s the limit. And what better way to experience one after another, comparing and contrasting, than with someone else driving you around in premier style? At just $30, this was also quite a value. We were positively stuffed by stop #4.

One final note: In addition to tacos, Red Machine Party Bus also operates a Chiefs tailgate bus. OK—awesome. Arranging transportation to the stadiums is always a chore. But this isn’t. Meet at the City Market pickup spot, and ride out to the stadium while someone else worries about the traffic as you pregame. RMPB provides and sets up a grill, heaters, tents, chairs, tailgate games, and hot chocolate. You bring whatever food and bevs you like. Easy-peasy. Kind of like winning another consecutive Super Bowl. Right?

POOL-CATION

YOU MIGHT RECALL a tiny detail in my overview of last January’s ArtFaire event for the Kansas City Art Institute. I was the highest bidder for a silent auction item I knew I’d be grateful for in warmer months ahead. Well, dear readers, I just cashed in my weekend staycation at Cori & Matt Culp’s Brookside Airbnb pool house [@theblackwalnutkc on Instagram]. With special permission from the owners, I invited a very tight group of friends over for a Saturday afternoon pool party. On the way, I picked up plenty of bevs from my go-to Mike’s Wine & Spirits and preordered a no-fuss catered taco bar from Tiki Taco for delivery. I’m here to tell you it was the perfect summer afternoon and one easily achievable for any reader. The taco bar was dynamite. And the experience was so, so easy—just like the Airbnb. While it had never occurred to me to rent a place in my own city for the weekend, I will absolutely be a repeat renter. Especially since my friends are already asking—when can we do that again?

OVERHEARD

“She’s got the curves… of a soybean.”

So, KC—where do you want to go? XO

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If you own gold, diamonds, a Rolex watch, or fine designer jewelry by Cartier or Tiffany, Harry Winston, or Van Cleef & Arpels, you might be a good candidate for a Jewelry Equity Loan from Diamond Banc in Kansas City. Diamond Banc has since expanded nationwide into 10+ metropolitan markets, including right here in Kansas City., “With gold prices nearing $2,500 an ounce, you could use your gold jewelry as collateral for an equity loan,” says Sicily Von Overfelt, director of Diamond Banc in Kansas City. “We loan up to 75% of the value and charge 8% interest for the first 30 days. Traditional pawn shops can charge up to 17% interest, which

would add up to 204% APR,” she says.

If you pay the interest each month, you can extend the loan for another 30 days. Or another and another. Clients can also draw loan balances up and down, like a line of credit. When you pay back the interest and principal, you retrieve your jewelry. “We want you to get your items back,” says Von Overfelt.

Several recent customers illustrate how this works. “A gentleman saw a vintage Rolex at auction that he wanted to buy, so he used two Rolex watches that he already owned as collateral for a loan to purchase the vintage piece for $11,000. In a few weeks, he paid back the loan,” says Overfelt, and he is now happy with the new addition to his Rolex collection.

Another customer was opening a restaurant and used his personal jewelry to secure the last bit of funding. A couple used the wife’s diamond engagement ring to go ahead with IVF treatment. Today, they have a new baby; the engagement ring is back on the wife’s finger.

“You can utilize the things you own for equity,” says Overfelt.

SECURING AN EQUITY LOAN WITH YOUR FINE JEWELRY ASSETS

If you wish to secure an equity loan with your fine jewelry as collateral, a visit to Diamond Banc can get things started. “Our loans are 30-day loans and can be renewed for as many 30-day periods as the client wishes, as long as the minimum interest payment is received,” Von Overfelt explains. “Each loan is tailored to match a client’s individual goals and needs, o ering flexibility in both the amount and the repayment schedule. Loan o ers are often equivalent to purchase o ers. If you make more than the minimum monthly payment, that extra goes towards repaying the principal. There is no penalty for repaying the principal early.”

THE BENEFITS OF A JEWELRY EQUITY LOAN

What are the benefits of a jewelry equity loan? There are many. First, you retain ownership of your jewelry. There is no credit check. You get immediate funding. You get a flexible repayment plan, with a line of credit if you desire. And when you repay your loan, you retrieve your jewelry.

1. High Loan Amounts: Diamond Banc o ers some of the highest loan values in the industry, based on the true value of your jewelry. This ensures that you can access a substantial amount of liquidity quickly.

2. Flexible Repayment Terms: Diamond Banc provides customized loan terms that fit your financial needs, including flexible repayment schedules, ensuring that you have control over how and when you repay your loan.

3. No Credit Impact: Jewelry Equity Loans are asset-based, meaning your credit score is not a factor in determining eligibility or loan terms. This allows you to secure a loan without a ecting your credit report.

4. Confidential and Secure Process: Diamond Banc ensures a secure and private process, with your valuable items fully insured and safely secured during the duration of your loan. All transactions are handled with the utmost discretion.

5. Easy and Fast Access to Funds: The process is streamlined and e icient, allowing you to quickly access funds, whether you need immediate cash for personal or business needs.

A SHORT-TERM LOAN TO MAKE LONG-TERM DREAMS COME TRUE

Such a short-term loan could be just the thing to make long-term dreams come true. Another client of Von Overfelt’s used her designer jewelry to make a $12,000 loan that helped her buy a duplex. Within a few weeks, she became a first-time homebuyer and a landlord—and got her jewelry back. Diamond Banc’s service is confidential, professional, and personal. When you want to “liquify your luxury,” suggests Von Overfelt, or realize substantial capital for a di erent investment, Diamond Banc is there.

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. 435

BY Judith Fertig

Ernie Nolan

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ANSWERS FOUR QUESTIONS

When Cynthia Levin, the longtime artistic director of Unicorn eatre, decided to retire after 45 years, the search was on.

e multi-talented, outgoing, creative Ernie Nolan has answered the call, but not all by himself. “I’m coming to Kansas City with my husband, director, choreographer, and writer, Abe Reybold, and our two cats, Brutus Rochester Reybold Nolan and Bishop Nickleby Reybold Nolan,” he says.

If you detect just a hint of children’s theater in his response, you would be correct. e Detroit native spent the past seven years as artistic director of the Nashville Children’s eatre. As both a playwright and director, Nolan’s resumé includes notable projects with the Coterie eatre in Kansas City, Chicago Playworks, and the

o -Broadway New Victory eatre.

A graduate of both the University of Michigan Musical eatre Program (with a BFA in musical theater) and e eatre School at DePaul University (with an MFA in directing), Nolan also served as assistant professor of theater studies at e eatre School. In 2007, Nolan choreographed Unicorn’s production of La Cage Aux Folles.

“I’ve found that my education background gives me a certain clarity of storytelling,” says Nolan, a self-described “multi-tasker” who relies on “the magic of Post-it notes.”

He will go through a lot of Post-it notes for the ambitious 20242025 season at the Unicorn, which debuts new and contemporary plays for Kansas City audiences of all ages.

“I can’t wait to continue the tradition of new work at the Unicorn

Arts & Culture IN KC

and to also create some of my own bold plays on those stages,” he says.

INKC: How did you get interested in theater?

Ernie Nolan: Going to the theater was a part of my family’s love language. Some of my favorite childhood memories are all of us sharing theatrical experiences together. Both of my parents performed in high school and college, they even played opposite each other and won at a national one-act play festival. Eventually, they went into teaching and academia. My mother has a master’s in children’s theater and my father’s doctoral thesis was on David Storey, the British playwright and novelist. So, I guess you could say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. I love sharing my love of theater with audiences of any age.

INKC: During your time at Emerald City Theatre in Chicago, you created the nation’s first performance space for interactive and immersive theater experiences for children age 5 and under. Why is it important to engage very small children in theater?

EN: I say, “Start them young!” Going to the theater shouldn’t feel like a foreign, stuffy experience. So often, young people are threatened with rules and a certain list of “perceived behaviors” for the theater. Not only does this make it a regular activity, but it also helps young people learn how to become members of a community, which is what theater going is! Even experiencing theater for the very young as an adult is a revelatory experience.

INKC: You’ve been a playwright, director, choreographer, and artistic director. What is on your bucket list of theater experiences you’d like to try?

EN: It might sound funny to say, but my bucket list is actually full of projects I don’t know about yet. I’m excited about creating more immersive projects and exploring all the spaces inside of the Unicorn, as well as outside. As an avid vinyl collector, I was recently tickled to find a play written to be performed inside a vinyl record shop. I’ve also become obsessed with Kansas City’s history, especially the historic Jewel Box Lounge, which hosted drag performance art in the late 50s and drew a suburban crowd of people who just enjoyed the show’s spectacle. I’m looking forward to exploring and celebrating that history.

INKC: What are your plans for the Unicorn Theatre?

EN: I’m hoping to build on Unicorn’s incredible legacy of new work, as well as continue being the platform for the voices of underrepresented writers in the theater. In addition to making it the hottest ticket in town, I’m excited to explore further how to make our theater feel like the “city’s theater,” where people not only see themselves on stage and in the audience, but a place where people feel their stories are told. I’m also excited to throw a little of the unexpected in there. Pieces that someone might be surprised to hear about at first and then realize, “Of course Unicorn is going to tell that story! I can’t wait to see it!”

Saturday, September 28

6 - 9 p.m.

KCAI Campus

4415 Warwick Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64111

Join us on campus for an evening of revel with live entertainment, unique experiences, and delicious fare.

Bid on works from KCAI Alumni, Faculty, Friends, and Staff in the silent auction or purchase outright in the KCAI Marketplace.

Tickets $150

All proceeds benefit the KCAI Fund and support student scholarships.

Arts & Culture IN KC

by Judith Fertig

ONCE AT KCREP

Take this sinking boat and point it home

We’ve still got time

Raise your hopeful voice, you had a choice

You’ve made it now

COULD THE LYRICS of the Oscar-winning song Falling Slowly from the Irish musical Once be more apropos this year?

From September 3 through 22, the romantic musical tells the story of two lonely people who find music and love in the streets of Dublin. Music and lyrics are by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová and the book is by Enda Walsh. Once is directed by KCRep’s own Stuart Carden.

These star-crossed lovers—he had a painful breakup with a girl who cheated on him and moved to London; she has a husband in Czechoslovakia and a toddler at home— have feelings for each other. But life is messy. And they have choices to make. . .

For more information and tickets, visit kcrep.org

Stuart Carden

MATTHIAS

PINTSCHER DEBUTS WITH THE KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

FROM SEPTEMBER 13 THROUGH 15, Matthias Pintscher, new music director of the Kansas City Symphony, makes his dramatic debut with Stravinsky’s ballet The Firebird, cello virtuosa Alisa Weilerstein’s styling of Antonin Dvořák’s Concerto in B Minor for Cello and Orchestra, and contemporary composer Unsuk Chin’s subito con forza.

Stravinsky’s Firebird from 1910 shocked audiences with its audacious and iridescent music scored to choreographer Serge Diaghilev’s ballet. It’s a rare treat to hear the entire score.

Unsuk Chin, a South Korean native who now lives in Berlin, was commissioned to write a brief piece celebrating Beethoven’s 250th birthday. Her work subito con forza (suddenly with force) is the result, combining the classical master’s recurring musical themes and patterns.

Cellist Alisa Weilerstein, a MacArthur genius award recipient, brings out the gorgeous melodies in Dvořák’s beloved Cello Concerto.

For more information and tickets, visit kcsymphony.org

Matthias Pintscher

Arts &Culture IN KC

by Judith Fertig

WHY PRAIRIE MATTERS: NEW RELEVANCIES OF A VANISHING LANDSCAPE

ON SEPTEMBER 18, pack a lunch and come to the Helzberg Auditorium of the Kansas City Library’s Central branch from noon to 1 p.m. for the newest edition of Science Matters Lunch & Learn, co-sponsored with the Linda Hall Library. You can also eat your lunch at your desk—wherever you are—and live stream the lecture on the libraries’ Facebook pages.

Says Carol Davit, executive director of the Missouri Prairie Foundation (MPF) and presenter of this lecture, “I consider myself fortunate to help conserve some of the most biologically rich habitat on earth and to work with the many people in the MPF and Grow Native! community who are so passionate about prairie conservation and native plants.”

Missouri was once covered with more than 15 million acres of tallgrass prairie, and prairie soils made the state into the agricultural powerhouse that it is today. Yet now, Missouri’s prairie legacy is reduced to fewer than 45,000 scattered, unplowed acres, but these old-growth remnants are biodiversity reservoirs and hold keys to sustainable future land use to benefit all Missourians.

In a time of climate change, it makes sense to rediscover the plants and ecosystems that fare best in our terroir. The MPF supports grassland and wildlife-friendly land-use policies and state, regional, and national conservation initiatives. Come and find out more.

For more information and to register, visit lindahall.org

ITZHAK PERLMAN IN CONCERT WITH THE HARRIMAN-JEWELL SERIES

“I KNOW THAT I can describe certain sounds with color. It’s not music—it’s notes, it’s single sounds,” says Itzhak Perlman, the 16-time Grammy-winning violinist. “So, if I hear a particular sound on a particular string on the violin, I could associate that sound with color. It’s not like I play a piece and I see sparkling blue things.”

While he has championed classical music, Perlman channels more of Fiddler on the Roof than Mozart for this unique concert experience.

On September 29, Perlman comes to Kansas City’s Kauffman Center with a joyful and uplifting program entitled In the Fiddler’s House. Like Paul Simon incorporating the rhythms and melodies of Africa into his now-classic Graceland album, Perlman breathes new life into klezmer music, the spirited instrumental musical tradition of Ashkenazi Jews in central Europe, as well as the Romani people.

For more information and tickets, visit hjseries.org

Itzhak Perlman

Deliberating What to Do Today?

AUTUMN ADVENTURES AWAIT AT KANSAS CITY ATTRACTIONS

Dive into the excitement and discover all the latest offerings waiting to be explored this fall. From charming pumpkin patches to spooky thrills, outdoor adventures to artistic endeavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season at the following Kansas City area attractions.

KC WINE CO FALL FESTIVAL AND PUMPKIN PATCH

Featuring over 60 farm fun adventures, right in Kansas City’s backyard! Spend the day experiencing adventures: slide, climb and play through 40 acres of fun. With attractions to entertain all ages, the whole family will enjoy the fresh air and wide-open spaces. Get lost in a sea of vibrant pumpkins, whether on the hunt for the perfect pumpkin to carve up a spooky face or searching for a petite one to decorate, KC Pumpkin Patch has got you covered. Bring your squad, grab a wagon, and make memories as you browse through the patch, soaking in the crisp autumn air and the delightful sights of pumpkins galore. Opening weekend is September 28 and 29, plus Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, October 4 – 27. kcwineco.com

PLAZA ART FAIR AT THE COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA

One of the longest-running and most beloved art festivals in the country, the Plaza Art Fair is in its 93rd year. Featuring 240 artists, it’s a top-ranked, national art event with three live-music stages and over 20 featured restaurant booths. It continues to be a weekend of people simply celebrating art and Kansas City’s unofficial welcome to the fall season, September 20 - September 22. countyclubplaza.com

HALLOWEEN HAUNT AT WORLDS OF FUN

Step Brace for a screaming good time at Worlds of Fun Halloween Haunt! As night falls on the park, hundreds of creatures from the underworld emerge to make your worst nightmares come true. Spine-chilling haunted mazes and elaborate scare zones will force you to sleep with the lights on. Spooky live shows and seasonal drinks and eats add to the screamingly good fun. If that’s not spooktacular

enough, the most popular rides will be open at night to deliver the amazing thrills and chills found only at Worlds of Fun. WARNING! This Halloween event is intense, parental discretion is advised. Halloween Haunt admission is included with a Gold Pass and above, as well as with a daily ticket purchase. October 4 – October 27, Saturdays & Sundays, plus Monday, September 2 & October 14. worldsoffun.com

KANSAS CITY RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Step back in time at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, a medieval-themed village home to jousting knights, thrill-seeking acrobats, and beautiful maidens. Held in Bonner Springs, the Kansas City Renaissance Festival has grown to be one of the largest Renaissance Festivals in the US, with an annual attendance of 200,000. Saturdays & Sundays, August 31 - October 13, plus Mondays, September 2 & October 14. kcrenrfest.com

HAUNTED HOUSES FROM FULL MOON HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS

When it comes to ranking the scariest attractions, Travel Channel and its adviser, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, named Kansas City’s epic haunted houses in the West Bottoms among the 10 scariest haunted attractions in the U.S. The Edge of Hell sits at 666 feet above sea level, the oldest running commercial haunted house in the U.S, est. 1975, focused on phobias, home to the record-breaking reticulated python and four-story slide. Visitors go through the depths of hell in this multi-storied haunted house. The Beast, located on 13th Street, includes lots of scares like the Thriller Dancers, Headless Horseman, and The Beast. This immersive nightmare leaves visitors losing their way through voodoo, werewolves, phantoms, and monsters. Macabre Cinema is staged as a 1930s haunted movie theater with a collection of actual horror-movie sets. Clowns, zombies, and ghouls will taunt and shadow you through movie sets from The Mummy, Hellraiser, and more. fullmoonprod.com

CAROLYN’S PUMPKIN PATCH

With over 30 years of tradition, this beloved pumpkin patch provides a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, from hayrides and corn mazes to pony rides and a petting farm. Known for its vibrant selection of pumpkins and fall decorations, the patch also features live entertainment, seasonal treats, and a country store. Set within a charming countryside setting in Liberty, MO, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the autumn season with loved ones. Open five days a week, Thursday – Monday, September 21-October 31. carolynspumpkinpatch.com

PLANET ANIME KANSAS CITY

Discover a whole other planet! As a companion to Planet Comicon Kansas City, held in March, this anime-focused event returns to the Kansas City Convention Center. This anime-centric destination within our fandom-fueled universe features an incredible lineup of anime voice celebrities, exhibitors, special events, a wide-ranging schedule of panels, amazing cosplay, a cosplay contest, and more, October 18-20. planetanimekc.com

GARMIN KANSAS CITY MARATHON

Each year, thousands of runners from around the country gather in the City of Fountains to participate in one of the Midwest’s favorite marathons and finish-line festivals. Don’t miss the chance to participate in Kansas City’s largest and most exciting annual race event that takes runners on a tour through the coolest neighborhoods and past the most beautiful landmarks—including the World War I Museum & Memorial, the Country Club Plaza, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Waldo, Westport, 18th & Vine and more. And with a full marathon, half marathon, 10k, and 5k options, there’s a race distance for everyone, October 19. sportkc.org

DISNEY100: THE EXHIBITION AT UNION STATION

This groundbreaking exhibition, celebrating 100 years of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the largest and most immersive projects the Walt Disney Archives has ever produced. The Walt Disney Archives opened its vault of treasures, and this widely anticipated exhibit will showcase objects including works of art, costumes, props, and Disney memorabilia. Guests will encounter items from some of their favorite Disney films such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), the live-action Cinderella (2015), Encanto (2021), and many more. The exhibition also features more than 14 interactive installations and iconic items from some of the most recent members of the Disney family—Pixar, Star Wars, and MARVEL. Disney enthusiasts will also have the chance to leave with both memories and memorabilia, as the exhibition will include several extraordinary backdrops and photo opportunities along with exclusive merchandise offered inside the Disney100: The Exhibition gift shop. The Exhibition gift shop. The exhibition runs until November 30. unionstation.org

GKCAA MEMBERS

ANITA B. GORMAN CONSERVATION DISCOVERY CENTER

4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110

816-759-7300 • mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter

B&B THEATRES

PO Box 129, Liberty, MO 64069 816-407-7469 • bbtheatres.com

BAR K

501 Berkley Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64120 816-474-2275 • barkdogbar.com

BIG BAM ON THE KATY / MISSOURI LIFE MAGAZINE

208 Columbia Street, Rocheport, MO 65209 (573) 514-5453 • bigbamride.com

BLADE & TIMBER

1302 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-343-8489 • bladeandtimber.com/locations/ kansas-city-power-and-light

BOULEVARD BREWING CO.TOURS AND RECREATION CENTER 2534 Madison Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-701-7247 • boulevard.com/visit

BREAKOUT KC

114 W 3rd St, Kansas City, MO 64105 (River Market), 11535 Ash St, Leawood, KS 66211 (Park Place) 816-945-2633 (River Market) • 913-298-1081 (Park Place) breakoutkc.com

CAROLYN’S PUMPKIN PATCH

17607 NE 52nd St, Liberty, MO 64068 816-730-6518 • carolynspumpkinpatch.com

CITY OF INDEPENDENCE PARKS/RECREATION/ TOURISM DEPARTMENT

416 W. Maple Ave, Independence, MO 64050 816-325-7575• visitindependence.com

CLAY COUNTY PARKS

17201 Paradesian St, Smithville, MO 64089 816-407-3400 • smithvillelakecamping.com

THE COLLEGE BASKETBALL EXPERIENCE AND (MEN’S) NATIONAL COLLEGIATE BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME 1401 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106 816-949-7500 • collegebasketballexperience.com

COLONIAL GARDENS

27610 SE Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014 816-229-1277 • colonialgardenskc.com

5235 OAK STREET, KANSAS CITY, MO 64112

816.235.8000 / TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG

OCTOBER 26, 2024—JUNE 9, 2025

Scan the QR code to learn more.

GLOWILD: LEGENDS & LORE AT THE ZOO

GLOWILD: LEGENDS & LORE presented by Saint Luke’s is set to dazzle the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium once again this fall, featuring a new magical theme! Visitors will be treated to an enchanting nighttime journey through two distinct loops: the adventure loop, with elements like Atlantis and dinosaurs, and the fantasy loop, which includes an enchanted forest and a fairy garden. The festival, in collaboration with LEKTRIK ART, promises a mile-long spectacle of intricate lighted sculptures. Crafted by 151 artisans using over 34 tons of steel and 89,000 feet of fabric, the displays offer a one-way path filled with photo ops, concessions and entertainment. Special features this year include access to Sobela Ocean Aquarium on Wednesdays and seasonal-themed lanterns in the fall and winter. The festival runs from September 6 through December 29. Tickets are available online at kansascityzoo.org/glowild.

COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA

47th & Broadway Kansas City, MO 64112 816-561-3486 • countryclubplaza.com

CROWN CENTER

2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-274-8444 • crowncenter.com

THE ESCAPE GAME KANSAS CITY

320 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64112 816-677-6834 • theescapegame.com/kansas-city

FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF KANSAS CITY MONEY MUSEUM

1 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-881-2683 • kansascityfed.org/moneymuseum

FULL MOON HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS 1401 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64102 816-842-4280 or 816-842-0320 • fullmoonprod.com

GARMIN KANSAS CITY MARATHON

2600 Grand Blvd., Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-389-4190 • sportkc.org/marathon

GO APE TREETOP ADVENTURE - SWOPE PARK 7331 Oakwood Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132 800-971-8271 • goape.com/location/missouri-kansas-city

HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM

500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 816-268-8200 • trumanlibrary.gov

HISTORIC LECOMPTON

609 Woodson Ave, Lecompton, KS 66050 785-887-6148 • lecomptonkansas.com

HOLLADAY DISTILLERY

One McCormick Lane, Weston, MO 64098 816-640-3056 • holladaydistillery.com

HY-VEE ARENA

1800 Genessee St, Kansas City, MO 64102 816-505-0404 • hy-veearena.com

INDEPENDENCE SQUARE ASSOCIATION (HISTORIC DOWNTOWN)

106 S Liberty St., Independence, MO 64050 816-381-7181 • indepsquare.com

J RIEGER & CO.

2700 Guinotte Ave, Kansas City, MO 64120 816-702-7800 • jriegerco.com

JACKSON COUNTY MO PARKS + RECREATION

22807 SW Woods Chapel Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015 816-503-4800 • MakeYourDayHere.com

Experience a mile-long spectacle of intricate lighted sculptures, crafted by 151 artisans using over 34 tons of steel and 89,000 feet of fabric. an enchanting nighttime journey! september 6december 29 Atlantis, dinosaurs, pirates, and more!

Enchanted forest, fairy garden, dragons, and more! Featuring two distinct

JACKSON COUNTY PARKS + REC

FALL FESTIVAL OF ARTS, CRAFTS AND MUSIC

USHER IN THE FALL SEASON with your family at Jackson County Parks + Rec’s Fall Festival of Arts, Crafts and Music at the Missouri Town Living History Museum, October 5 & 6, 10 am – 5 pm. This popular open-air event delights visitors as the entire village comes alive with the authentic music and dance of the mid-1800s. Knowledgeable interpreters will demonstrate bygone skills such as cooking over a wood fire, woodworking, blacksmithing, tin smithing, and fiber crafts. Watch the preparation of homemade apple butter and cider. Shop unique handcrafted gifts from talented artisans. Delight as children find the fun in time-honored games from the past, then top off the sights, sounds, and smells of a simpler time in this reconstructed mid-1900s farming community with a hay ride! Missouri Town is located at 8010 East Park Road, Lee’s Summit, in Fleming Park near Lake Jacomo. For information, visit makeyourdayhere.com/missouritown.

JESSE JAMES BIRTHPLACE

21216 Jesse James Farm Rd, Kearney, MO 64060 816-736-8500 • jessejamesmuseum.org

JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM

8788 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212 913-826-2787 • jcprd.com/museum

KANSAS CITY AUTO MUSEUM

15095 W 116th St, Olathe, KS 66062 913-322-4227 • kansascityautomuseum.com

KANSAS CITY BALLET

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-931-8993 • kcballet.org

KANSAS CITY CARRIAGES

Nichols and Pennsylvania on the Country Club Plaza 816-531-1999 • kccarriages.com

KANSAS CITY CURRENT

CPKC Stadium, 1460 E Front St, Kansas City, MO 64120 913-374-0233 • kansascitycurrent.com

KANSAS CITY HELICOPTER TOURS 10 Richards Rd, Kansas City , MO 64105 816-499-3342 • kansascityhelicoptertours.com

KANSAS CITY MONARCHS BASEBALL 1800 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-328-5618 • monarchsbaseball.com

KANSAS CITY MUSEUM 3128 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-702-7700 • kansascitymuseum.org

KANSAS CITY PARKS & RECREATION 4600 E. 63rd Street, Kansas City, MO 64130 816-513-7500 • kcparks.org

KANSAS CITY RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 633 N 130th St, Bonner Springs, KS 66012 913-721-2110 • kcrenfest.com

KANSAS CITY REPERTORY THEATRE

Spencer Theatre, 4949 Cherry St, Kansas City, MO 64110 Copaken Stage, 1 H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-235-2700 • kcrep.org

KANSAS CITY ROYALS

One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129 816-921-8000 • royals.com

FUN AT CROWN CENTER

CROWN CENTER IS YOUR GO-TO DESTINATION for fall fun in Kansas City! From local shopping and dining to entertainment and events, discover what makes us uniquely Kansas City.

Kick off the family fun with Hallmarket: A Hallmark Art Festival on September 14th, where creativity meets community in KC! Then, polka on over to the KC Oktoberfest for a weekend full of brats, beers, and Bavarian culture on October 4th + 5th! Eager to explore more? Dive into an underwater adventure at SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium, ignite your creativity at Kaleidoscope with a variety of art activities, or take a spin at the Crown Center Ice Terrace once it opens on November 1st!

Make this fall season extra special with a family outing to Crown Center! Explore our shops, savor delicious food, and create lasting memories. Plan your trip today!”

KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts (Helzberg Hall) 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-471-0400 • kcsymphony.org

KANSAS CITY ZOO & AQUARIUM

6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132 816-595-1234 • kansascityzoo.org

KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-994-7222 • kauffmancenter.org

KC FRINGE FESTIVAL

PO Box 415001, Kansas City, MO 64141 646-844-1505 • kcfringe.org

KC WINE CO AND KC PUMPKIN PATCH

13875 S Gardner Rd #1, Olathe, KS 66061 913-484-6251 • kcwineco.com and kcpumpkinpatch.com

LEGENDS OUTLETS

1843 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-788-3700 • legendsshopping.com

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER AND SEA LIFE AQUARIUM KANSAS CITY

2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-471-4FUN (4386) • legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ kansas-city and visitsealife.com/kansas-city

MAHAFFIE STAGECOACH STOP & FARM 1200 Kansas City Rd, Olathe, KS 66061 913-971-5111 • mahaffie.org

MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT 8081 NW Roanridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64151 816-281-2020 • mainevent.com

THE MIDLAND THEATRE 1228 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-283-9900 • arvestbanktheatre.com

THE MIDWEST GENEALOGY CENTER

3440 S Lee’s Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055 816-252-7228 • mymcpl.org/genealogy

MISSOURI STAR QUILT COMPANY

114 N Davis St, Hamilton, MO 64644 888-571-1122 • missouriquiltco.com

MUSIC THEATER HERITAGE

Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd, #301, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-221-6987 • mthkc.com

FAMILY FUN EVENTS

September 14

Hallmarket: A Hallmark Art Festival

September 21

Children’s Mercy Dream Big Day

Explore Crown Center in the heart of Kansas City, where you'll find one-of-a-kind shopping, dining, and unforgettable events and attractions. Bring your family and friends to see what makes us uniquely Kansas City.

• Live Theater

• Hallmark Visitors Center

• Kaleidoscope

• LEGOLAND® Discovery Center

• SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium

• Shopping & Dining

• Halls Kansas City

Family Fest + Walk

October 4 – 5

KC Oktoberfest

October 26

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

• Seasonal Outdoor Ice Skating

• Hallmark Christmas Experience

• Mayor’s Christmas Tree

• Santa’s Gingerbread Station

October 31

Arrival of the Mayor's Christmas Tree

November 1, 2024 – March 9, 2025

Crown Center Ice Terrace

2024 – 2025 Season

November 29

Santa's Arrival at Crown Center

November 29

Mayor's Christmas Tree Lighting Event

November 29 – December 22

Hallmark Christmas Experience

November 29 – December 24

Santa's Gingerbread Station

Through December 31

The Hand of the Artist: The Creative Collaboration of Hallmark and Disney, Hallmark Visitors Center

KANSAS CITY HELICOPTER TOURS

READY TO START A NEW HOLIDAY FAMILY TRADITION? Kansas City Helicopter Tours o ers a variety of holiday light helicopter tours, ranging from short eight-mile ights to extensive 80-mile journeys, showcasing Kansas City’s best holiday displays. ese tours showcase holiday light displays around Kansas City, including the iconic Plaza Lights, Mayor’s Christmas Tree at Crown Center, and more. Each tour provides a unique aerial perspective, from the enchanting lights at Legends Field to the shimmering displays at Christmas in the Park. ey’ll have you soaring higher than Santa’s reindeer this holiday season.

ey also o er stadium tours, providing a bird’s-eye view of Arrowhead and Kau man Stadiums, along with other key Kansas City landmarks.

Beyond scenic tours, they provide special ights for unique events such as golf ball drops, gender reveals, and marriage proposals, adding a magical touch to any occasion.

Whether celebrating the season or marking a special occasion, Kansas City Helicopter Tours elevates your experience to new heights!

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS (NAIA)

120 W. 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-595-8000 • naia.org

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TOYS / MINIATURES

5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112 816-235-8000 • toyandminiaturemuseum.org

NATIONAL WWI MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL

2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-888-8100 • theworldwar.org

THE NELSONATKINS MUSEUM OF ART 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111 816-751-1278 • nelson-atkins.org

NEGRO LEAGUES BASEBALL MUSEUM 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-221-1920 • nlbm.com

PLANET COMICON KC AND PLANET ANIME KC Bartle Hall, 301 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-533-3126 • planetcomicon.com and planetanimekc.com

ROCK ISLAND BRIDGE

0 Kansas Avenue, Kansas City, KS 66105 913-620-6156 • rockislandkc.com

SINKERZ LOUNGE

53 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64105 913-374-0105 • sinkerslounge.com

STARLIGHT THEATRE

4600 Starlight Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132 816-363-7827 • kcstarlight.com

TSHOTZ

660 NW Metro North Dr, Kansas City, MO 64155 816-702-1320 • tshotz.com

UNION STATION AND SCIENCE CITY

30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-460-2000 • unionstation.org/sciencecity

URBAN HIKES KANSAS CITY Kansas City Walking Tours 913-229-6493 • urbanhikeskc.com

VISIT KCK/ KCK TACO TRAIL

755 Minnesota Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101 913-321-5800 • kcktacotrail.com

WATKINS WOOLEN MILL STATE HISTORIC SITE

26600 Park Road North, Lawson, MO 64062 816-580-3387 • mostateparks.com/park/watkins-woolenmill-state-historic-site

HOLIDAY EVENTS IN KANSAS CITY

FROM TWINKLING LIGHTS to the season’s top events and holiday performances, the holidays in Kansas City are full of wonderful events to celebrate the season.

Jackson County Parks + Recreation

37th Annual Christmas in the Park

November 27 – December 31

Frank White Jr., Softball Complex 3901 SW Longview Road

Lee’s Summit, MO makeyourdayhere.com

Kansas City Parks + Rec

Winter Magic

November 1 – January 5

10400 North Platte Purchase Drive

Kansas City, MO wintermagickc.com

Hallmark Christmas Experience Weekends, November 29 –December 22

Crown Center Square

2425 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO experiencehallmarkchristmas.com

GloWild Legends & Lore

September 6 – December 29

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium 6800 Zoo Drive, Kansas City, MO kansascityzoo.org

Jingle!

November 22 – December 31

Legends Field

1800 Village West Pkwy., Kansas City, KS jingleholiday.com

Holiday Reflections

November 20 – January 1

Union Station

30 W Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO unionstation.org

Knights of Lights

Weekends

November 24 – December 30

Kansas City Renaissance Festival grounds, off State Ave. between 130th St. & N. 126th St., Bonner Springs, KS kcknightsoflights.com

Rec Deck the Halls

Holiday Pop Up Bar

Fridays and Saturdays, Novemberember 29 – December 30

Boulevard Brewing Co, 2501 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, MO boulevard.com

KC Ballet’s Nutcracker

December 6 – 24

Muriel Kauffman Theatre at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO kcballet.org

KC Rep’s A Christmas Carol November 23 – December 28

Spencer Theatre on the UMKC Campus 4949 Cherry St., Kansas City, MO kcrep.org

KC Symphony’s Home Alone TM in Concert

November 29 – December 1

Helzberg Hall at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO kcsymphony.org

WORLDS OF FUN / OCEANS OF FUN

4545 Worlds of Fun Ave, Kansas City, MO 64161 816-454-4545 • worldsoffun.com

ZIP KC

12829 Loring Rd, Bonner Springs, KS 66012 913-214-9478 • zipkc.com

ZONA ROSA

8640 N. Dixson Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64153 816-587-8180 • zonarosa.com

GKCAA ALLIED MEMBERS

CITY OF BONNER SPRINGS bonnersprings.org

CTM MEDIA GROUP ctmmedia.com and visitorfun.com

DRURY HOTELS druryhotels.com

FASONE & PARTNERS fasonepartners.com

IN KANSAS CITY MAGAZINE inkansascity.com

KC GOING PLACES kcparent.com

KC TICKETS kcticketsonline.com

LEAVENWORTH CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU visitleavenworthkc.com

MADDEN MEDIA vacationistusa.com and maddenmedia.com

MOD OP | KANSAS CITY modop.com

PAGE COMMUNICATIONS pagecomms.com

VICTORY PYROTECHNICS AND SPECIAL EFFECTS victorypyro.com

VISIT KC visitkc.com

Greater Kansas City Attractions Association members include local attractions from throughout the metropolitan Kansas City area.

GKCAA gives away tickets and items from the most exciting venues in the Kansas City area! Simply follow the Association on Facebook or Instagram and you’ll have the opportunity to experience the finest attractions in the region!

@GKAAAttractions facebook.com/attractionskc

Stroll

Nov. 29 – Dec. 31

Visit KCHospice.org/SNL for tickets and sponsorship information. Join us! 5 - 8 pm on Sunday October 6 at the KC Live! Block in the Power & Light District.

Join us for an unforgettable evening! Help families in the Kansas City area who are affected by serious illness or by grief.

Sunday Night Live

5 to 8 pm | October 6, 2024 KC Live! Block - Power & Light District

All attendees will enjoy:

• The best of KC’s downtown dining

• Open bars offering your choice of refreshment

• Interactive games to try your luck

• Complimentary valet or garage parking

• Silent and live auctions

• Amazing raffle packages Event proceeds support families served by Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care.

Please follow Kansas City Hospice for event updates! @KCHospice @KCHPC

FINE WINE

Unless you’ve been marooned at sea (see what we did there), you’re probably aware that one color is emerging above all others as the hue of the season. As impactful as red, but easier to wear, it plays well with black, brown, cream, and white. is rich oxblood shade ruled the fall 2024 runway, and accessories are a great way to add burgundy to your wardrobe without investing too deeply in the trend. Whether you call it burgundy, claret, chianti, or merlot, toast this classic autumnal palette.

Bartleby Objects bag, $495, available at Finefolk

Flattered bag, $395, available at Dear Society

Feroce sunglasses, $145, available at Clairvaux

Silk scarf, $29, available at Peruvian Connection

Miz Mooz boots, $195.95, available at Alysa Rene Boutique

Burberry skinny check silk scarf, $220, available at Halls

BUNDLE UP ON STYLE

WHAT WORKS

Beauty magazines, social media in uencers, and YouTube gurus are famous for touting the newest, latest ingredients for getting glowing, smooth, healthy skin. But what really works?

RETINOIDS

ere’s 40 years of solid science behind the use of retinoids. ese topical vitamin A derivatives, including the prescription-only retinoic acid known as tretinoin, reduce ne lines, wrinkles, and sun damage by increasing collagen production. Originally approved as a topical treatment for acne (for which it is still prescribed), users of tretinoin discovered that besides clearing their acne, it also demonstrated signi cant e ects on signs of aging.

Over the counter retinoids, including retinyl esters, retinol, retinaldehyde (also known as retinal), aren’t as e ective as tretinoin but don’t require a prescription.

In order of e cacy:

Retinyl esters are a great introduction to retinoids if you’re just beginning to use a retinoid or if your skin is especially sensitive.

Retinol is the form of retinoid you’re probably most familiar with. It’s in many popular skin treatment products.

Retinaldehyde (retinal) is the most potent over-the-counter retinoid.

Whether you’re 20 or 60, you’ll want to introduce some form of retinoid into your skin-care routine. Do a little research to nd the best formula that will work for you.

VITAMIN C

Like retinoids, topical vitamin C serums increase collagen production. It protects against sun damage and brightens skin by reducing redness, dullness, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. is potent antioxidant combats free radicals. You’ll nd several forms of vitamin C in skin-

care products, but the gold standard is L-ascorbic acid. Look for a 10 to 20 percent serum, which is more e ective than a cream or lotion. It’s often paired with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide to reduce irritation and boost e cacy. And make sure your vitamin C serum comes in an opaque or amber-hued container and is stored in a dark, cool space. Exposure to light and heat can cause vitamin C to oxidize, making it ine ective.

Dermatologists suggest applying Vitamin C in the morning and your retinoid in the evening to avoid irritation. As always, in the morning sunscreen should be the nal step in your skin-care routine.

While there are many buzzier products out there, a regular use of these proven ingredients will de nitely get your glow on.

ZO 10% Vitamin C SelfActivating serum, $108, at Georgous Aesthetic Bar

Revision C+ Brightening Eye Complex, $120, at AesthetiCare Medspa

Skin Medica 1% Retinal Complex, $96, at Georgous Aesthetic Bar.

Colorscience Total Protection No-Show Mineral Sunscreen, $66, at AesthetiCare Medspa

Suntegrity 5-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer and Sunscreen, $45, at Skin KC

www.nestkc.com

by Judith Fertig

The Skinny on Medications for Weight Loss

A CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTINE KHONG, MD, BOARD-CERTIFIED OBESITY MEDICINE AND FAMILY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN WITH ADVENTHEALTH MEDICAL GROUP

Over the past year or so, you can’t watch television or read a magazine without seeing ads for semaglutide medications for weight loss. You might even know people who have used them with great success.

But what are they? And how do they work?

Christine Khong, MD, board-certified obesity medicine and family medicine physician, explains.

How do weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound work?

A semaglutide, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, is a weekly injection medication that mimics a hormone that the body makes called GLP-1. A tirzepatide, such as Mounjaro or Zepbound, targets two receptors: GLP-1 and also GIP. (Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are both hormones that are released in the small intestine within minutes of eating.)

These medications help with weight loss by slowing down gastric emptying and quieting the food noise in your brain. It can help you feel less hungry, slow digestion, and decrease appetite. It can also help break down stored fat. It’s important to note that all weight-loss medications are only meant to supplement a healthy diet and exercise.

What do these medications cost?

These name-brand medications can cost from $1000 to $1500 per month, without insurance. That cost is brought down significantly if

your insurance covers them. The manufacturer websites also offer coupons online, which can reduce the cost for self-pay patients.

Who can use them?

When speaking about the name-brand medications, Ozempic and Mounjaro are FDA-approved for patients who have diabetes. Wegovy and Zepbound are FDA-approved for weight loss. If your health insurance covers these weight-loss medications, and if you meet the criteria—BMI greater than 30 OR BMI greater than 27 and also have other related health conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea—you likely would be able to get the medication. Patients may not be good candidates for these medications and need to further discuss with their doctor if they have had a personal history of pancreatitis, a family history of medullary thyroid cancer, are currently pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Some people have been able to get compound semaglutide and compound tirzepatide, which are custom-made formulations of the commercially available medications. While this would be a less expensive option, these compound medications are not FDA regulated and patients should talk with their doctor about these options.

What are the potential side effects?

Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, and rash at the injection site are the most common side effects. Most side effects do improve as the patient continues to use the medication, as their body adjusts to the medication. Also, eating small portions and more bland foods helps. I also encourage my patients to increase their intake of protein, fiber, and water!

Are these medications a short- or long-term answer to weight control and the many health risks associated with obesity?

We should recognize obesity as a long-term health concern. So, these medications are meant to be long-term. Studies have shown that most people who stop taking the medication do end up slowly gaining the weight back over time, so these injection weight-loss medications are here to stay. It will be exciting to see more weight-loss medication options in the future. Treating obesity can decrease a patient’s risks of developing diabetes, heart disease, and strokes. AdventHealthKC.com/PrimaryCare

Christine Khong, MD

Built to care. Driven to cure.

Kansas City’s newest home for state-of-the-art cancer care is here. The AdventHealth Cancer Institute offers everything patients need all in one place – including leading-edge technology with the first and only MRIGuided Radiation Therapy in the KC region. Here, you’ll find a dedicated team that champions you, your cancer journey and the human spirit. Visit CancerCareKC.com to learn more.

Cancer Institute

by Patricia O’Dell

Home Making

THE WOWS AND WOES OF RENOVATING

Recently, my husband and I bought a new-to-us old house about four or ve blocks as the crow ies from our previous one. We’d decided that we wanted a ranch and that staying in the neighborhood would be ideal. Certainly, as empty-nesters, we would downsize.

Checking Zillow became a daily ritual, and we sent links back and forth to one another regularly. “Love the house, but the street is too busy.” “Great location. Not enough yard for the boys.”

“Boys,” in addition to being a reference to my three sons, now refers to our two wirehaired pointing gri ons. Je Bridges is a yearand-a-half old, and Beau is about nine months, but they both seem like puppies. Some people are curious if we refer to Je Bridges by his entire name. We do, though sometimes we call him, “J.B.” My husband refers to Beau by his name consistently. Sometimes I call him, “Bo Bo” which I regret, but it seems to have stuck. He wags his tail either way.

During our house hunt we looked in parts of the city we hadn’t

enough to

considered before. It was fun, but we came to our senses and agreed that being close to work was more important. We moved about ve blocks east from our previous house.

Rather than downsizing, which I think is what we’re supposed to be doing, we bought a house that is a bit bigger than the one we were in. I write with the background noise of dogs snoring and people pounding, drilling, and helping us realize our vision of what this home together will be. Already there is a larger yard, wonderful light, and a daily exchange of images and ideas along with minor inconveniences.

Currently, my makeshift desk is in front of a window that looks out to the street where I can watch my neighbors and their children walking or riding by. One gentleman who works at a local store rides his skateboard past my window every day on his way to work. Even with the dust and noise it feels like home.

If you live in an old home in Kansas City, you can nd these photos online at the Missouri Digital Heritage website at sos.mo.gov/mdh

A late 1920s shot of the columnist’s new, old home. If you’re lucky

live in a KCMO heritage home, nd yours at the Missouri Digital Heritage website.

RESTOREING KANSAS CITY HOMES

LOCAL ORGANIZATION SUPPORTS HOUSING, COMMUNITY

WHILE I AM GREAT at acquiring, I am not always great at shedding. Growing up in an unstable household, I struggle with anxiety about not having enough, though I’ve been graced with stable—and lovely—housing for decades. is is one of the reasons I am a big fan of ReStore, Habitat KC’s home improvement stores.

ReStore accepts donations of household items including furniture, appliances, and building supplies, and sells them at a discount to generate funds to build a ordable homes for area families in need. And believe me, ReStore has everything. Salvaged doors and windows, shutters, hardware, countertops, paint, plumbing, furniture and more.

As an old-house fanatic, I’ve donated and purchased from ReStore. e last time I dropped o items before I moved, I stumbled across a Kohler pedestal sink that is the same model that I’ve used in my last two houses. It’s waiting for installation in the new house now. In addition, we’ll donate any functional items we remove from the renovation to ReStore to keep the good energy moving. e Habitat for Humanity ReStore site lists the items they accept. Free pick up is available. ( ough then you miss the fun of the great nd!) Drop o items are accepted Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. ey have ve sites in the metro. Check their site at habitatkc.org/ restore-kansas-city for more information on what they accept and the closest of their ve locations to you.

LUXE DESIGN is in the details

Lighting is the key to the design of a space, and at Rensen House of Lights you’ll find a magnificent selection of lighting designs and a knowledgeable staff of lighting consultants waiting to help with all the details of lighting your home.

New lighting designs arriving daily to SEE, TOUCH and TAKE HOME!

Home + Fashion = Fabulous

CLOTHING TEXTILES AND COLOR TRENDS ARE RIGHT AT HOME

by Patricia O’Dell

Ihave a friend who has a theory that people either invest in their home decor or their wardrobe. I admit that I spend shamelessly on decor, while choosing wardrobe classics for their staying power. For once, I’m on trend in both sectors. e fall fashion trends this year were brimming with colors that are happy at home.

Strong solids of camel and gray—which make up the bulk of my wardrobe along with black—made a big showing on the runways, along with plum, pink, sky blue and chartreuse. Not surprisingly, it’s not di cult to build a room around these hues.

Crate & Barrel’s Unwind modular sofa in steel provides a good base to highlight some of the brighter colors of the season, and the performance wool rug in navy is classic, with the bene t of easy clean up. e Cavett ash wood chair with camel leather— or maybe two—adds richness to a room and is a great piece for sitting and visiting with a friend or moving around to settle into the best spot at a party.

Everyone knows that accessories make an out t, and rooms are not much di erent. Larger navy blue pillows in a classic cable stitch bring texture and color to this neutral palette, while a jumble of smaller ones in an array of hues bring life to the party.

Two Isla brass triangle table lamps anking the sofa provide sparkle along with the necessary lighting. Cozy throws mean you and your guests are comfortable whether the chill comes from the season or a lower thermostat.

And, even with rooms—or perhaps especially—accessories are key. A collection of vases and candlesticks in jewel tones adds to the interest of the space.

I don’t know if building a room around fashion trends makes you a fashionista or décor a cionado, but it certainly is fun!

Unwind modular sofa, $2,798.

Fisherman knit throw pillow, $85.95.

Cavett ash wood leather accent chair, $1,299.

Isla brass triangle table lamp, $199.

Glass vases, $29.95 – $129.95.

Vienne 6’ x 9’ area rug, $899.

Sweater knit throw blanket, $99.95.

MAHJONG MAGIC

IF YOU ARE NOT AWARE of mahjong mania, you are not paying attention. It’s all the rage. I’m not much of a game player, but I’ve bought vintage mahjong sets because the design of the boxes and tiles are delightfully charming. Certainly, any excuse to have friends over for some fun is a good idea.

RSVP in the Village has taken the game to a level. eir mahjong sets, mats, and accessories will thrill the experienced player and enchant the newbie. Whether your colors of choice are classic blue and white, or bright pinks and greens, RSVP has mahj-strong products to up your game night as well. In addition to mats, sets, and travel bags, themed drink markers make sure no one grabs a friend’s bubbles if their focus is on the tiles. Coasters are equally handy at keeping boards and tables safe from rings. Mahjong wannabe? RSVP has a Mahjong 101 book to help you play like a pro in no time. Game on! rsvpinthevillage.com

Clockwise from top: Palm Beach mahjong travel set, $425. Pegoda cocktail markers, $25. Mahjong 101 book, $40.

Project: Lake Lotawana Remodel | Designer, Katy Sullivan

Isabella Emmack IN CONVERSATION WITH

words by Cindy Hoedel

She glides down catwalks in Paris, London, and Milan for elite couture houses, but her favorite place on earth is Lee’s Summit. Now 26, Isabella Emmack has led a whirlwind, jet-setting life since age 15, when Vogue discovered her striking gamine features. Emmack was born in Minneapolis and grew up in Lee’s Summit, where her family moved when she was in 3rd grade. Her education at Lee’s Summit West High School was cut short at age 15 by the demands of her supercharged modeling career. Emmack became famous walking for Alexander Wang, and now primarily works for European fashion houses, including Chanel, Gucci, and Yves St. Laurent. Her Instagram feed, @isabellaemmack, is a visual feast for fashion devotees.

Emmack has an apartment in New York, which she shares with her romantic partner of five years, who is also a model (“that doubles my schedule”). IN Kansas City recently caught up with Emmack by phone when she was on lunch break during a photo shoot in downtown Manhattan for Vogue.

What was your first big job in fashion?

My very first job was for American Vogue with a photographer named Annie Leibovitz—she’s very famous. I was actually at Lee’s Summit

West, I think I was in personal finance [class], and my mom called and told me that an agency from New York wanted me to come shoot Vogue. I had just started the fall semester. It was probably August because Fashion Weeks are held in September. I had to fly out the next day, and after that a lot of people wanted to work with me, so I just kind of carried on.

Did you model in Kansas City before that big break?

Yes, my first job was for Kansas City Spaces magazine. I also worked for Baldwin and Charlie Hustle, big KC brand names. I love the Kansas City brands.

How did Vogue in New York become aware of you in Lee’s Summit?

There’s a couple of agencies in Kansas City but my favorite and my mother agent, who’s been my manager for ten years, is Wendy Buono at Voices And in Kansas City—she scouted me and she put me up for placement in New York City. She’s been in Kansas City her whole life.

So your career went from zero to 100 at age 15 without the struggling and aspiring phase. What was that like? It was pretty scary. I had to go into these professional environments with

photo by Thomas Lavelle

some of the most elite people in those fields and be able to establish relationships and deliver on my job as a model. Learning how to grow into the industry at the same time as growing up was really difficult.

How did you know what to do at that first job for Vogue?

I didn’t. [Laughs] It took me a long time to figure that out. I felt like just being my authentic self was the best thing I could do in that scenario.

If you were an agent pitching Isabella Emmack, how would you describe you?

[Laughs] I would say . . . I’m pretty cool but not too cool. And I’ll do a good job above and beyond every time. And I really enjoy it. I think enjoying what you do is the most important part. People notice when you don’t have fun.

Why is having fun important?

Because I think it allows people to be who they are. When you’re not having fun it creates distance in the workplace.

Who in your family did your striking features come from?

My mom. [Laughs] But she’s 5’4”, so I got my height from my dad.

What is your daily life like as an international model—the best parts and the weird parts?

The best parts are my opportunities as far as seeing new places, meeting new people in a way you can’t if you have a regular job. I have a very weird schedule. It’s last-minute and very packed.

For example, this weekend I’m going to be in New York and then I fly to London, and I’m there for less than 24 hours, and then I fly back to New York. Then I fly to Kansas City so I can drive my brother to Columbia to enroll at Mizzou, and then I fly to Paris. The next 3 ½ weeks are completely full without a day of rest. I really don’t get to be home at my apartment in New York ever, because I’m always visiting Kansas City if I get a free day. My life is pretty much on the go 24/7.

How do you keep your energy up and get enough rest? You can’t model very well if you’ve got dark circles under your eyes.

That’s so true! I think just knowing that I’ve got a goal to follow my modeling career as far as it can go is what keeps my energy level up.

How much pressure do you feel to keep your body looking a certain way and do you have to work hard at it, or do you naturally stay the same size?

My career’s been ten years long now, from age 15 to 25, so a lot of changes happen in your body in that time. I think just being healthy and exercising when I can—not too much, not too little—everything in moderation is the key. I think everybody should do that, just do what you can do. Even having a walk. I love to go on a walk in the morning.

Do you follow a restrictive diet?

No, I pretty much eat whatever I want. I know for a lot of women it’s not like that. It’s just different for everybody. But I do what I want. I’m not going to not enjoy myself or not go out to a restaurant or not have a drink. I don’t really limit myself. I try to stay active and walk a lot and have a smoothie every now and then.

Emmack as the face of a Gucci advertising campaign.

What are your favorite comfort foods?

I really like French fries. And mozzarella sticks. Jack Stack barbecue is my guilty pleasure.

What do you love about fashion?

I love that it’s ever changing and that it’s creative. Everyone is always pushing to go to the next level. There’s no limit to the potential creativity that can happen. I think that goes for the New York fashion industry and even the Kansas City fashion industry. It is big there, and I don’t think a lot of people out here realize that there’s a lot of fashion communities in places like Kansas City, Minneapolis, Chicago. I’ve been really excited seeing the talent coming out of Kansas City. I love all the magazines there. I’m excited to see where it’s going. Kansas City is not behind the times, we’re with the times.

From your international perspective, how do you see fashion evolving right now?

I think it’s becoming more inclusive, like allowing all different types of people, whether you’re big, small, or wherever you come from. I think they are looking for people who want to be in the fashion industry and who are relentlessly authentic about it. Right now people are looking for people who are not trying to attach to anything but what they truly want. Don’t be afraid to wear a shirt because somebody might think of you in a certain way—wear something even crazier than that. We’re seeing that in celebrities and in fashion, people are becoming more eccentric. And the more unique and eccentric you are, the more people are noticing.

What’s your best survival tip for women who are not self-confident about fashion when they need to dress up for a wedding or a job interview or a party?

I would say, pick something that allows you to be comfortable. And, less is more.

What do you mean by less is more?

In beauty or fashion, when you’re doubting yourself, you probably look fine just the way you are. You don’t need to elaborate. You know what you feel comfortable in, and when you’re not sure, you’re probably right the first time.

Is fashion always a top priority for you even when you’re not working, or is it a situational thing you can turn off and on? I wish I could turn it off. It’s usually always on.

Even when you’re on a walk?

Yeah, because I never know when I’m going to get an email that says I’ve got to be in another country in three hours. The next thing could happen at any moment. The only times when I feel I can turn it off is when I’m home in Lee’s Summit. It sounds really cheesy, but I’ve been saying since I was 15 years old and left high school that Lee’s Summit— Kansas City in general—is my favorite place in the whole world. And I’ve hyped it up ever since I started living in New York. If I could live anywhere in the world, it would be there.

Walking the runway for Fall 23 Saint Laurent.

Interview condensed and minimally edited for clarity.

Weekend Update

FALL INTO AUTUMN WITH THESE GREAT DAY LOOKS FROM KANSAS CITY RETAILERS

MAD FOR PLAID

Leset top, $88; L’Agence blazer, $795; L’Agence coated crop pants, $285; Marcia Moran necklace, $195; Ferragamo loafers, $895. All from Halls (Crown Center).

photos by Kenny Johnson hair and makeup by Molly McPheter and Jilliann Casey Roots & Branches Salon

TRAVELING MAN

Scotch & Soda shirt, $148; Scotch & Soda blazer, $278; Neuw jeans, $219; Shinola watch, $950; Brixton hat, $99; Matt & Nat bag, $220; Taft shoes, $275. All from Ulah (Woodside Village Shops).

MIX MASTER

Sonrisa shirt, $365; Crossley sweater, $245; Guido di Ricio jacket, $975. All from Hudson & Jane (Crestwood Shops).

GOLDEN HOUR

Marble tank top, $63; Liverpool jacket, $119; Joseph Ribcoff jeans, $223. All from Trapp and Company (Midtown).

NEUTRAL TERRITORY

TWP blouse, $595; Marant Etoile vest, $450; Isabel Marant jeans, $TK; B-low the Belt belt, $128; Freda Salvador loafers, $395; La Lumiere NY Waving Wheat bracelet, $45; Jenny Bird bangle, $278; Maison Irem beaded bracelet, $140. All from Clairvaux (Shops at Fairway and Hawthorne Plaza).

CLASSIC APPEAL

Saint James sweater, $425; Sid Mashburn shirt, $195; Edwin jeans, $280; Sid Mashburn loafers, $350. All from Newton James (Downtown Overland Park).

INTERWOVEN

HANDBAGS TRENDING FOR FALL

Dragon Di usion bag, $370, from George a lifestyle store (Crestwood).

PHOTOS BY Kenny Johnson

SHOT ON LOCATION AT Hammerpress

IN THE BUCKET

Alexander McQueen mini bucket bag, $1,590, from Halls (Crown Center).

PUFF PIECE

Kate Spade qullted sling bag, $109, from Kate Spade Outlet (Legends Outlets).

SHOW YOUR STRIPES

Guido di Riccio Hudson tote bag, $975, from Hudson & Jane (Crestwood).

BLUE JEAN BABY

Tory Burch denim crossover bag, $334, from

Tory Burch (Legends Outlets).

SOFT TOUCH

Bevza satin pouch bag with brass handle, $375, from Blackbird Collection (Crossroads).

Wet Your Whistle

THE NEWEST COCKTAIL BARS IN KANSAS CITY

Stopping in somewhere for a beverage and a bite is no longer relegated to the happiest of hours. It can be the date night of choice for busy parents or perfect for those on a first date. Same goes for two busy friends, whose calendars never quite match up for a full meal, but they can make a quick drink happen.

So, where should you go to wet your whistle this month?

During the summer, Kansas City’s bar scene seemed to whirl to life with several new spots opening back-to-back, and they simply haven’t stopped. Each one seems more exciting and interesting than the next. You’ll notice that all mentioned are locally owned and operated and most of them are bite-sized spaces.

Small bars just make good business sense right now, and with that may come some new rules of engagement. Some bars may accept reservations, and some won’t. There may be a small fee to reserve a table that will count toward your check, or some restrictions on the amount of time you can camp at a table. Don’t let these guidelines hinder your interest. Remember, the plan here is to have a quick but meaningful interaction over a drink and a nosh. If you enjoyed yourself at a particular place, make plans to return. No one is ever upset about a return customer.

Writing this in mid-August, there are only two spots on this list that haven’t opened yet—Kon Tiki Room & Conchita Tacos and Blanc Champagne Bar, but both are saying they should have their doors open sometime in September. Elsewhere in this issue (pages 108 and 110) are articles about The Sentinel Room on Independence Square and Songbird at Corvino Supper Club. Add both to your list. Be sure to check websites or social media pages before you head out to ensure these places are open and operating.

Cheers to the end of another summer, Kansas City, and for making the time to get together, even if it is short and sweet.

words by Jenny Vergara

Common Tiger

Mineral Lounge

Kansas City’s newest wine bar, Mineral Lounge, was inspired by wines from the Mediterranean, which tend to have a bit of minerality. e concept is a collaboration between the team at Tannin Wine Bar & Kitchen and Wendy Sight, who owns the location. e tiny lounge is quietly stylish with limewashed walls and a handsome marble bar with a temperature-controlled wine cellar in back. ere’s seating for around 30 people, and the spot has incredible views of Broadway Boulevard, the Kansas City Crossroads, and the Kau man Performing Arts Center directly across the street. e team has carved out one small section of the Tannin wine list and spotlighted it for your drinking and dining pleasure. Here you’ll nd wines that come from France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Lebanon, and Slovenia. ere’s a full cocktail menu, including some refreshing spritzes and non-alcoholic selections. e food menu is also Mediterranean-focused, with a rotating tinned- sh program served with cheese-stu ed peppadew peppers, olives, and caperberries; a bay scallop ceviche served with Spanish potato chips; yellowtail crudo with capers and olives; and a Turkish co ee panna cotta so good it’s the reason you must have dessert. mineralkc.com

XO

Noah Manos, using his design and build experience, has turned a former rundown garage on the Westside into a stylish, breeze-blockcovered 30-seat, HiFi listening bar. It’s styled after the Japanese kissaten, a post-World War II café that’s a popular place to drink tea and have a snack while listening to music. Manos opened XO in collaboration with two business partners, Mitch Foster and Will Minter, both owners of ESP, a popular HiFi listening bar in Denver. Using their incredible vinyl library and an excellent sound system, the team at XO plays music to match the energy as it evolves hour to hour. In

addition to the music selections, ESP also manages the bar program at XO. ere’s a selection of highball cocktails, natural wines, and a few beers. Local James Beard Award nominee for outstanding chef, Johnny Leach, has developed a fantastic food menu. Order the pork curry katsu, nori egg salad sandwiches on u y milk bread, or the salmon crudo donburi and thank me later. xohi .com

Common Tiger

From the Hans family that brought you Urban Prairie Co ee, Mission: Board Games, and e Primrose, comes their newest concept in Mission—Common Tiger. Much like the prohibition-era Kansas City speakeasies, you’ll need a password to enter. At rst glance, the space resembles any corner store stocked with grocery items, such as jars of almond butter, cans of Spam, Zapp’s chips, and breakfast cereal. If you can tell the cashier the password (it changes weekly and is easily located on their website), you will be led to the backroom where cocktails, music, and dancing all take place under a disco ball surrounded by tiger-themed décor. Abby Hans co-owns Common Tiger with her brother, Mason, and their parents, Jason and Julie. Tiger’s Blood is the best-selling cocktail, made with Mean Mule poblano agave spirit, blood orange liqueur, lime, and grapefruit soda. Common Tiger is open Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. to midnight. the-common-tiger.square.site/password

The Blue Palm

e former Mockingbird Lounge was too cool not to have a fabulous second act as something new for the Strawberry Hill neighborhood in Kansas City, Kansas. Hospitality-industry veterans Dan Doty, Hunter DeFoe, and Roxie Danner (the founder of Hell re Tiki, a roaming tiki

Mineral Lounge XO

pop-up bar), managed to snag the spot to launch e Blue Palm, a nautical-themed tiki bar. Guests enter via the side door through the outdoor patio, which opens directly to the host stand. e bar is bathed in a deep blue light, giving the space under-the-sea vibes. e drink menu o ers a rotating mix of favorite tiki drinks from Hell re Tiki, including the Tarot Deck, a terri c drink made with Planteray dark rum, velvet falernum, taro coconut cream, passion fruit, lemon and nutmeg. Classic tiki cocktails, such as the Mai Tai, Saturn, and Pain Killer, are served in a fun, rum barrel-shaped glass. It’s drinks only at e Blue Palm, so plan to eat before you go. ose tiki drinks go down way too easy to imbibe on an empty stomach. bluepalmtiki.com

Varsity Club & Disco Burger

Varsity Club is a casual cocktail bar owned by brothers Caleb and Levi Royce, who have made their names by managing popular craft-cocktail bars in Kansas City. As their rst bar together, Varsity Club, located in the River Market, is all about making the drinks fun and accessible and making everyone feel welcome. Tucked away in a handsome basement space with stone walls, warm wood, and low lighting, it boasts a pretty bar topped with Norwegian rose marble. e drink menu is simple, with a handful of classic drinks, such as old fashioneds, negronis, and margaritas, and some fun ones, including the Bangarang, a highball made with pear citrus soda, mint, and your choice of spirit. e summertime favorite, the Spaghett cocktail, is on draft, and all drinks fall between $8-$15. You’ll enter through the back of the building, where there’s a nice outdoor patio with picnic tables. at’s where you’ll also nd the permanently parked Disco Burger

food truck, cranking out fantastic smash burgers with cheese and a side of crinkle-cut French fries. Owned by Darren Carter and Matt Chapman, Disco Burger’s food can be ordered directly from the truck or via a QR code found on the drink menu inside. Food can be enjoyed inside or on the patio. varsityclub.bar

Ground Control

After running both e Belfry (for ten years) and Gerard’s pool hall (for two years) in the handsome building at 15th and Grand Boulevard, James Beard Award-winning chef Celina Tio recently unveiled a new craft cocktail bar in the basement of the same building. Called Ground Control, it’s named after the famous David Bowie song, whose picture hangs in a place of honor behind the bar. Tio built this bar as an upscale tasting room where she’s pouring drinks made from Annx Spirits Co., her own line of spirits. is 20-seat bar serves a creative list of cocktails designed by local bartender John Phelps. e cocktails are all mixed with Tio’s own Moon Age bourbon, 600 Acre vodka, Boathouse gin, or Collection rye. To drink, try the fragrantly oral Rainha Vadia, a cocktail made with Annx Boathouse gin, Combier rose liqueur, Italicus Bergamont liqueur, lemon, rosemary, and saline. If you’re feeling a bit peckish, her luxe small-plates menu lists a $140 caviar plate that features 30 grams of Osetra Molossal caviar, blinis, and traditional garnishes, and moves from there on to even more decadent dishes, including her famous crab cakes, roasted cauli ower with English pea purée, white bean ragu, clam chowder, and a wagyu smash burger. e rst Friday and Saturday of every month, Tio is also offering a ve-course tasting menu at Ground Control that will change

The Blue Palm Varsity Club & Disco Burger

monthly. Reservations for the tasting menu can be made by emailing events@thebelfrylounge.com, and put the words Ground Control in the subject line. thebelfrylounge.square.site

Sagebrush

It’s been three years in the making, but Christopher Ciesiel and Cristin Llewelly are nally ready to unveil their latest labor of cocktail love. Sagebrush is located next door to Garden House Café in Rosedale. As owners of e Campground in the West Bottoms, known for its moody, cabin-in-the-woods décor, craft cocktails, and stellar food menu, their bar Sagebrush is clearly walking to the beat of a di erent drummer. e long, curved bar is wrapped in warm-wood slats with matching midcentury-modern inspired bar stools and a colorful neon light installation overhead that washes the entire bar in a soft red light. Working with Modern Lark (a design/build studio) and Element Ten (custom neon work) on the project, the result is super simple and super sexy. e same can be said for their drink menu. ey are serving draft cocktails for ease, speed, and consistency, along with a few made-toorder drinks. Nonalcoholic options, including a frozen cocktail that can be spiked (or not), also grace the menu, in addition to a few bar snacks. instagram.com/sagebrush.rosedale

COMING SOON

Kon Tiki Room + Conchita Tacos

Chad Troutwine, co-owner of Torn Label Brewing Co. and Public

House, and Chris Seferyn, owner of the Martini Corner legendary bar, e Velvet Dog, are partners in Kon Tiki Room + Conchita Tacos, a new tiki bar and street taco concept in Kansas City’s Crossroads. Located next to the popular watering hole Up Down KC, this new spot will be serving up some serious tiki culture. Although they haven’t opened as of this writing, their social media feed has been teasing out photos of colorful tiki glasses and mugs, along with a sizable collection of hip-shaking hula dolls and wood sculptures of Hawaiian tiki gods carved by famed tiki woodworker Bosko. e bar team (yet to be announced) will be shaking up handcrafted tiki cocktails. Next door, Conchita Tacos, operated by the chefs Kenda Valentine and Pablo Muñoz, along with Roger Avila, the team behind Tacos Valentina, will be serving gourmet street tacos until close at 1:30 a.m. is mash-up of talent and avors will make this place a runaway hit. kontikiroom.com

Blanc Champagne Bar

Blanc Champagne Bar, owned by local Kansas City marketer Jordin Johnson, will open sometime this month in the former Canary location at 3835 Main Street after a facelift that will bring a lively oral vibe and rosy blush color to the space. e name comes from the French wine term “blanc de blanc,” which means “white on white,” and refers to champagnes made with all white grapes. e chef Chad Tillman is serving as the culinary consultant for the full-service restaurant on the rst oor and rooftop garden patio. Expect charcuterie and cheese plates, small plates made for sharing and a buzzy brunch service, along with a full cocktail bar and one of the most extensive bubble lists in the city. blanconmain.com

Ground Control

Sagebrush

Ebony Ivory&

RENOVATION SENSATION DEBUTS A CONTEMPORARY NEOCLASSIC HOME IN LEAWOOD

words by Judith Fertig

photos by Nate Sheets

Black against white. Square lines meet soft arches. Marble and stone contrast with plush upholstery. This year’s Renovation Sensation Homes Tour features a new build that proves the old dictum: Opposites attract.

From design inspiration to elegant reality, the entrepreneur homeowners with two young children relied on the advice and expertise of architect Clint Evans of NSPJ Architects and interior designer Olivia Burns of Liv Interior Designs.

In 2018, Evans recalls an early visit with the couple and the magazine photo that started it all.

“The wife said, ‘I want this,’” pointing to a winding staircase that seemed to float. The style, says Evans, is “very L.A.” Sophisticated, elegant, with clean lines throughout.

“Sight lines were very important,” he says. “She wanted to see the staircase from the road. And she didn’t want to see the two double garages.” Evans designed a classic, two-story center hall with two wings—the double garages—that create a “formalized

Left: Black-framed windows dominate the entrance at the front courtyard of the Leawood home. Above: Behind the sweeping entry staircase, a wall clad in a porcelain slab is flanked by white-oak panels in a custom ebony stain.

Right, top: Stationary sheer panels that border the two-story glass wall were a late addition to soften the space in the living room. Right, middle: The DaVinci double-sided fireplace opens to both the lounge and the living room. Right, bottom: In the lounge, a wall of ebony-stained white-oak cabinetry surrounds a mirror inset with custom brass shelves and integrated lighting. Opposite: In the living room, two Century sofas rest on a custom Kyle Bunting cowhide rug.

Take the Tour

RENOVATION SENSATION TOUR

On Wednesday, September 18 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., this home will be open to view as part of the 2024 Renovation Sensation, a benefit for the Shawnee Mission East SHARE program. This year’s homes tour includes four beautifully renovated and newly built homes in the Shawnee Mission East area, featuring different styles and trends in home design.

For your Tour Pass and more information, go to smerensen.com.

motor court” in front, lined with paver bricks. You can see the staircase from the large window on the right. And when you step in the front door, you can see all the way back to the pool.

The staircase is an “engineering marvel,” says Evans. “Steel plates and poles give it extra strength. It takes a lot of effort to make it look effortless.”

“All of the rooms are symmetrical,” he adds, “and that gives this home a certain elegance.”

To give the interiors the high contrast they desired, the couple “trusted me to bring their vision to life,” says Burns. “They wanted a unique family home set up for great entertaining,” she says. Burns started with the floors—white oak in a pale finish—against woodwork and walls with an ebony stain. Burns used mixed metals throughout—black, stainless steel, and a champagne finish on brass. Contemporary light fixtures help create an airy feeling.

The staircase to the right is indeed a sight to behold, and its seeming simplicity belies all the problem-solving that went into it. The side wall of porcelain and dark-stained wood also features integrated accent lighting to create drama in the evening. Jim Glover of Lost Path Iron

Walls of glass let light flood into the dining room, tempered by the

ebony Phillip

Left: Two views of the butler’s pantry. A walnut-stained butcher block is inset into the countertop. Walls are clad in a Carrara marble mosaic tile from IMD. Opposite, top: The kitchen opens directly onto the living room. Opposite, bottom: Champagne brass is a repeating element in the kitchen, both in the custom hood and the taupe leather-upholstered brass bar stools.

Above:

deep

Jeffries wallcovering.

Above: In the primary bedroom, Cowtan & Tout gray velvet was used for the custom headboard, bed frame, and brass bench. Left: Massive floor-to-ceiling double doors in the primary bath open to reveal storage. Opposite, top left: Her closet, with custom brass hanging racks designed by Burns, was inspired by a Valentino boutique in Monaco. Opposite, top right: His closet evokes a Ralph Lauren vibe, with an upholstered bench and a two-toned herringbone grasscloth wallcovering. Opposite, bottom right: An ombre chrome-torose gold Kohler faucet tops the floating Carrara marble sink in a powder room.

created the custom railing. A baby grand piano makes a statement under the curve of the stairs.

The great room features a pair of white leather sofas (easy cleanup for kids and tipsy guests with glasses of merlot) on an area rug of cowhide in tones of gray. The see-through fireplace set into a wall of tile from International Materials of Design leads to the lounge area where a book-matched marble wall on the other side “is all the art we needed,” says Burns. Four plush armchairs in a merlot velvet, surrounding a brushed brass cocktail table, create the perfect grouping to enjoy a cocktail from the sophisticated bar area at the opposite end of the room. The sleek kitchen in ebony-stained wood centers around a marble island with a waterfall edge. A champagne brass range hood and a pendant light that mimics a trapeze bounce the light around. The butler’s pantry keeps any mess out of sight.

The adjacent dining room, with a custom wood table crafted by Matt Castilleja, overlooks the pool. A series of ring pendant lights cast a modern glow, while the dark-hued wallpaper keeps it moody for dinner parties.

In the primary bedroom upstairs, an upholstered wall in a gray velvet bordered by mirror panels offers a luxurious alternative to a headboard. The walls are covered in an off-white grasscloth. Pleated curtains provide softness as they moderate sunlight. A custom bed and bench add more glamour. The primary bath continues the symmetry with expansive hisand-hers floating vanities. The back wall of storage features a niche to hold fresh flowers, undisturbed if you open either door.

A lanai, or three-season room, allows gatherings by the pool. Mounted

above the gas replace is a TV perfect for watching sports.

“ is house gives one of the best rst impressions,” says Burns. “It is a true custom home. Everything in it is unique to the homeowners.” And that’s just what Renovation Sensation attendees are waiting to see.

Above: In the lanai, a motorized screen opens to the repit and pool. Restoration Hardware furniture surrounds the co ee table. Left: The walnut-stained slat ceiling treatment drops down to ank the cast-stone replace.

COOKING IS A CELEBRATION OF DETAILS

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BY Jenny Vergara

Reservation for One TRIUNE

PHOTOS BY Aaron Leimkuehler

Remember a time when we could go out to eat at a nice restaurant and go to a movie, concert, play, or performance? As ticketed events got longer, venues started selling more hot food and cold drinks at their concession stands, often charging too much for too little. e people were left with two choices—eating at home before the show or try to squeeze in a full meal afterwards when there were not a lot of restaurants still open at that hour.

What is needed is a place with a wide selection of tasty food and creative cocktails that can be executed quickly, for a reasonable price, and should feel like an experience before the curtain even goes up.

e newest place to pre-party is Triune, the handsome new restaurant and bar located on Kansas City’s Westside, but feel free to linger if this is your main event.

Located in a commercial building that used to house the Screenland eatre at 17th and Washington Street, the building is now

owned by Denver developer Ken Wolf. It sits within walking distance of both the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts and the Westside neighborhood, which means it’s perfectly placed to cater to both locals and visitors alike.

Triune is a stylish but casual, come-as-you-are spot that is priced right for everyday dining but feels special enough for almost any occasion. With so much talk these days about the “vibes” of a new restaurant and sometimes not much else, it is a particular pleasure to dine at a new place that knows who their customer is, what they want, and delivers it from day one.

This has a lot to do with the people running this restaurant. Owner Steven Blakey is a local restaurateur who also owns Sauced, a popular burger counter located in the Crossroads. For his first full-service restaurant, he has assembled a staff of industry professionals to deliver on his vision. Whitney Coleman is the maître d’, and she will gladly help you find the right seat with a smile. Rodolfo Rodriguez is the executive chef, who came from the kitchen at La Bodega, a favorite Spanish

tapas restaurant in Kansas City. Pastry chef Graham “Fox” Farris, who also is a partner in Brady & Fox, the Irish pub located in East Brookside, is baking all the breads and desserts. Finally, there is Evelyn Brock, the bar manager, who has created a cocktail menu that pairs nicely with the Southern flavors found at Triune.

The space itself is small, but not too small. There are four areas for guests to sit and enjoy their meal. Each has its own merits, depending on the experience you desire.

There is a slender slice of a dining room with comfy banquettes that offer views of the kitchen. It’s intimate and quieter than the main room. It also has a groovy accent wall decoupaged with pictures that bring an artful touch to the space. The larger dining room has booths that fit four or more, and tables that can be pushed together to accommodate even larger parties. Along one side is a beautiful bar that also has plenty of comfortable seating. Finally, there is an outdoor patio, which will no doubt be packed on sunny days and cool evenings.

The Butterfly Sugar Baby cocktail, a light purple concoction made

with the Brazilian spirit cachaça, hibiscus syrup, elderflower liqueur, and lime juice, was a perfect start. A slightly elevated version of a Brazilian caipirinha, it was lightly floral and sweet with a tartness from the lime juice to keep things in balance. I also sampled the Savannah Smash, a cocktail made with whiskey, smoked peach syrup, and fresh lemon juice. It was reminiscent of a drink you might sip on a front porch in the South.

The waiter suggested the bread plate, which comes with a housemade biscuit, sweet cornbread, and focaccia served with honey butter and smoked peach and rosemary jam. The different textures and flavors of each bread were delightful, but the tall, flaky biscuit—a bit crunchy on the outside revealing a soft and pillowy interior—was a favorite when spread with the accompanying butter and jam. I was beginning to see a Southern theme emerging in the menu.

There are more than 20 small-plate shareable dishes that run

the gamut. There are zesty deviled eggs with smoked salmon, sticky jumbo shrimp flash fried and served with savory tomato jam, and charred asparagus with pickled mustard seeds topped with a sunnyside-up egg. Mexican elotes sit next to avocado toast on the menu, along with Cubano sliders and seared ahi tuna lettuce wraps. The variety was impressive.

Five larger platters on the menu—including coffee short ribs, chimichurri steak, seafood pasta, and a dish called “Roasted Duck, No Donald,” which is half of a duck with crispy skin, sauteed greens, and a hibiscus tea-reduction pan sauce—each can easily feed a whole table.

To put Triune to the test, I ordered a variety of small plates. First, there was the smoked and fried chicken wings recommended by the server—dry rubbed with aromatic Chinese five spice and served with a tangy blend of pickled vegetables on the side. The grilled octopus came with the same pickled vegetables, but in contrast to the wings, which were a bit dry, the octopus was quite tender, served with a schmear of Sriracha lime yogurt. The deeply caramelized, fried crispy Brussels sprouts were dressed in a bright apple cider agrodolce, a tart but sweet Italian condiment, and topped with generous shavings of salty, Italian grana Padano cheese.

Probably my favorite dish of the night was the simplest—the

fresh burrata. It came with a healthy portion of the creamy white cow’s milk cheese served on a bed of rocket leaves and slices of house-made focaccia tucked amongst the sweetest confit cherry tomatoes sprinkled with a touch of salt and pepper. Simple, and yet it ate like summer on a plate.

For dessert, the lemon tart was an easy choice. The clean, bright, lemon filling topped a crust that was crisp and light as air. In an inspired move, a dollop of marshmallow fluff, lightly torched until golden brown, sat atop half of the tart strewn with slivers of candied lemon peel. It was nearly perfect, as was the entire meal.

A menu that begins in the South expands to include inspiration from dishes all over the world. Triune may not be reaching for much new ground, but much can be said for delivering popular dishes and doing them right. There were nice little culinary touches on every dish, and every element on the plate had a purpose.

The name Triune, which means three in one, comes from Blakey’s concept that there are three things that need to come together to cultivate culture in any restaurant—atmosphere, food, and drink. He and his team have put plenty of thought into this place and how they’d like it to feel, and they are confidently delivering all three. triunekc.com

BY Jenny Vergara

In Your Cocktail THE SENTINEL ROOM

Four years ago, Travis and Bree Gensler decided to purchase a handsome red brick building with three separate storefront spaces and two loft apartments just o the historic square in downtown Independence, Missouri. e building itself had a newsworthy history, as it was once home to the Independence Sentinel, a local newspaper that began publishing in 1866.

e Genslers both grew up in the area and wanted to keep the history of these buildings alive, as well as cultivate new business on the square. So, they leased the retail spaces downstairs to others, and remodeled the two loft apartments upstairs where they run ree Trails Lofts as short-term rentals.

When their last commercial tenants moved out in 2023, they de-

cided to put their own stamp on Independence Square by opening e Marinello, a Kansas City-themed gift store selling handmade local goods, including bottles of locally made spirits. In March of this year, they opened their second business next door in the same space where the Independence Sentinel was once printed. e Sentinel Room, a clubby whiskey and craft cocktail bar, is still a place where the daily news is discussed by locals and visitors alike, but now it is over a neat two- nger pour of whiskey.

You’ll see the neon sign hanging above e Sentinel Room rst. Painted on the glass front door is an image of a gold rabbit with a monocle—the mascot of the bar. Dark wood-beamed ceilings pop against deep greenish-teal walls, and large leather sofas and tufted leather chairs ll the lounge. Behind the bar, which seats about ten people, is a large golden

photo by Bryce Veazey

Lil Deb cocktail.

shelf that houses the impressive selection of 150 bottles of whiskey.

e Sentinel Room’s focus on whiskey is intentional. It is a spirit near to Travis’s heart, because he and his brother would often get together to chat about life over a good bottle of whiskey and call those gatherings “brothers’ nights.” His goal for e Sentinel Room is to create a place where others could enjoy their own nights lled with conversation and connection with partners, friends, and family.

In addition to a killer whiskey list, e Sentinel Room o ers an interesting selection of neat pour ights, with a focus on tastings from distilleries across Missouri. ere is also a selection of top-notch craft cocktails highlighting many spirits, not just whiskey. Wine and beer are also available, as are charcuterie plates to take the edge o your hunger while you are slow sipping.

For those wanting to learn more about whiskey, there’s Club 33, a new whiskey exploration club for those wanting to expand their knowledge of whiskey and get the opportunity to taste bottles without having to buy them rst.

With nothing quite like e Sentinel Room in this part of the metro, the couple has been pleased with the amount of love and support they’re getting from regulars and visitors alike. So much so, that they have decided to turn their gift shop, e Marinello, into a whiskey-tasting room with the ability to host classes, tastings, and other whiskey-related events for larger groups.

Back at e Sentinel Room, they’ve just launched their new fall cocktail menu. e team has created a cocktail based on their collective love for a certain nostalgic treat from their childhood. e “Lil Deb” cocktail was created while working on their new fall-inspired menu. Bartender Caleb Gibbs, who formerly worked at Julep in Westport, expertly crafted this libation to capture the essence of the beloved oatmeal cream pie. e result is a perfectly balanced cocktail, not overly sweet, with a creamy, comforting nish that evokes warm memories. sentinelroom.com

Lil Deb

1.5 ounces Four Roses Yellow Label Straight Bourbon Whiskey

.75 ounce Lazzaroni Amaretto

.5 ounce St. Elizabeth’s Allspice Dram Liqueur

.25 ounce maple simple syrup*

3 ounces heavy whipping cream

Combine the ﬁrst 4 ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake until thoroughly chilled, straining your cocktail into a chilled Nick and Nora glass. In a second shaker pour 3 ounces of heavy whipping cream along with one to two ice cubes and shake thoroughly until ice cubes dissolve or until your whipped cream has the desired thickness. Pour the whipped cream on top of the drink. Grate fresh nutmeg over the whipped cream and enjoy.

*Maple simple syrup is a 1:1 ratio of quality maple syrup dissolved into hot water by stirring until it has a consistent viscosity.

A spectacular, contemporary venue with transformable reception spaces and a magnificent courtyard. 1900bldg.com (913) 730–1905

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. therestaurantat1900.com (913) 730–1900

by Jenny Vergara

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At Staffing Kansas City, they understand the challenges of recruitment and hiring. That’s why they take the burden off their clients’ shoulders by managing the entire process of sourcing, screening, and interviewing potential talent. As a certified women-owned business (WBE), they take immense pride in their role as Kansas City’s trusted employment services partner.

SONGBIRD

AFTER CELEBRATING SEVEN YEARS in the Crossroads, two-time James Beard Best Chef Midwest nominee, and three-time semifinalist Michael Corvino and his partner, general manager and sommelier, Christina Corvino, have closed their ten-course prix fixe Tasting Room located inside of Corvino Supper Club to begin its transformation into a new cocktail lounge. Songbird will be a casual 25-seat lounge serving 16 craft cocktails and a non-alcoholic section of drinks, along with a playful food menu. The menu includes warm croissants with raclette cheese, pork belly muffins, barbecue tofu skewers, and an ice cream sandwich. In contrast to the moody decor of the Supper Club, Songbird will have infusions of color and exude a cozy, casual warmth. The team hopes to have Songbird open by the end of September, with Corvino Supper Club continuing to operate nightly, business as usual, during construction and beyond.corvino.com

OUTDOOR OASIS

Flavor IN KC

by Jenny Vergara

PENNY’S

A COVETED RESTAURANT SPACE with a pretty patio in The Shops of Prairie Village will soon open as Penny’s, a fourth restaurant concept from Penny and Doug Mufuka, owners of Bamboo Penny’s, KC Thai, and Aqua Penny’s. Their newest concept will open in the space that housed Blue Moose and Gravity, featuring more signature dishes from chef Penny’s native Thailand, including some that are currently only seen as limited weekly specials at Bamboo Penny’s. Beverage director Jenn Tosatto is also working on a cocktail menu with a signature low-and-no alcohol cocktail section, in addition to a large selection of wine and beer. The couple, along with local concept design and development specialist Michael Werner, opened Bamboo Penny’s in Leawood’s Park Place in 2021, and followed that with Aqua Penny’s in the same shopping center earlier this year.

Flavor IN KC

by Jenny Vergara

MINERAL LOUNGE

THE WESTSIDE is brimming with new food and drink spots, including Mineral Lounge, an intimate bar that’s a collaboration between the owner of the space, Wendy Sight, and the management team from Tannin Wine Bar & Kitchen in the Crossroads. Located on Broadway within steps of the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts, the new lounge is now open serving food and wine inspired by the Mediterranean. They’ll be serving wine, cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages that can be paired with a handful of small plates from the chef Brian Aaron, including duck confit rillette, whipped Hemme Brothers’ quark cheese plate with honey, a golden-beet salad, and a Spanish tinned-fish program, to name a few. Barry Tunnell, the general manager and wine director at Tannin, feels that the wines from the area are some of the best examples of the kind of winemaking that has come to define this part of the world. They are especially keen to pour two producers that defy imitation—Chateau Musar in Lebanon and Domaine Tempier in Bandol, France—for Kansas City wine drinkers. Get ready to explore some brand-new wines at Mineral Lounge. mineralkc.com

Faces IN KC

Sunset Music Fest

THE 2024 SUNSET MUSIC FEST at Town Center Plaza in Leawood was a summer concert series that took place on Thursday nights in June with the Stolen Winnebagos with Zeros on June 13, KC Aerial Arts and an opening band on June 20, and Simply Turner opening for JAM on June 27.

The free, family-friendly live outdoor concert series included local eats and drinks to purchase along with face painting and giant inflatable slides for the kids. For more photos go to inkansascity.com/photos.

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Faces IN KC

Stems : A Garden Soirée

ON JUNE 22, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens was the scene of an epic evening of fine wines, craft beers, and cocktails served with delicious food from top area restaurants and caterers. The evening included art, music, beautiful surroundings, and fireworks to cap off the summer celebration. Proceeds from the event ensure that The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park can continue to support and develop Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and city art installations. For more photos go to inkansascity.com/photos.

photos by threethree photography

My Essentials IN KC

Georgina’s essentials...

HIDDEN GEM:

One place that more people should know about is the new location for Red Kitchen KC: Cien Por Ciento Mexicano in downtown Overland Park. It o ers 100 percent authentic Mexican food made from scratch and is open for breakfast and lunch. It’s a wonderful spot that truly showcases the rich avors and warmth of authentic Mexican cooking.

GEORGINA HERRERA

JEWELRY DESIGNER. ENTREPRENEUR.

by Evan Pagano

Georgina Herrera moved to Kansas City from Mexico in 2006. She couldn’t have landed in a better spot.

In 2015, Herrera launched Georgina Jewelry. She designs her pieces in Kansas City, has them manufactured in Mexico, then personally ships them near and far. “I design everything, I sell everything, I pack everything,” and with some intern help, “I do everything,” Herrera says with a laugh.

You’ll nd her jewelry—often striking, bold, and metallic—in a few local stores and online, but you’ll also see it adorning celebrities on red carpets and on models during international fashion weeks. Quinta Brunson of Abbott Elementary wore Georgina Jewelry earrings in her feature in e New Yorker. ose are giant platforms, but Herrera is still working hard to make it.

“We are getting the celebrities, it’s true, we are getting on runways, it’s true— but the numbers are not like people believe where you are making millions and millions. It’s a business, I am an entrepreneur, and I’m working every day to succeed,” she says. “It’s a pain, and you have to work for 24 hours. I’m very proud, but there’s a lot of way to go.”

She attributes much of her success to the city that welcomed her 18 years ago. “ is city is very humble, nice, kind—people in the Midwest, people in Kansas City are still very nice; they’re still very loyal. We support each other. In my experience, there’s no envy, it’s more happiness that you succeed. e success that I can have now is because I started here. I truly believe it. I truly, truly believe it.”

Learn more about Herrera—and her philanthropic brand, Lola’s Bag—at georginajewelry.com.

FASHION FAVE:

My go-to place for fashion is Halls I absolutely love this amazing store because they carry the best highend brands in fashion. e team at Halls is fantastic; their attention to detail and dedication to helping customers nd exactly what they need sets Halls apart as a top destination for luxury fashion in the city.

LOCAL MAKER:

My favorite local maker is Amina Hood

CAFFEINE FIX:

My favorite café drink is a cappuccino, and I love getting it at French Market in Prairie Village. eir co ee is exceptional, with the cappuccino being a standout—rich, smooth, and perfectly crafted.

Her handmade hats are unique, stylish, and of great quality. My favorite hat she’s made is a custom monochrome wide-brim fedora. Wearing it adds a perfect touch of elegance to any out t, making it a standout piece in my summer wardrobe.

SHOPPING SMALL:

My favorite local boutique is Alysa Rene Boutique It’s a fabulous women’s boutique that stands out with its amazing, stylish, and sophisticated collections. Her personal attention, engaging personality, and genuine care for her clients make the shopping experience truly one of a kind.

BEST BITES:

Kansas City has so many fantastic dining options, but two of my absolute favorites are Novel and Earl’s Premier Novel is incredible for its unique and fresh dishes. e gnocchi dish is a standout on their menu. Earl’s Premier o ers a similarly curated menu with amazing food— especially their ceviche, which is fantastic.

photo by corie english

Owner Chad Denham