The Investment issue
HEALTH + WELLNESS
INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH
FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
RETIREMENT STRATEGIES
HOME SERVICES
THE LASTING VALUE OF ANTIQUES
Lee’s Summit’s Premier Aesthetic Center
Where aging is OPTIONAL
CHANGING LIVES One Home At A Time
I bring a heart-centered approach to mortgage lending, ensuring every client feels heard, supported, and confident in their home financing journey. With a deep understanding of the mortgage industry, I simplify the process, provide clear guidance, and create customized solutions that align with my clients’ goals.
My focus is on building lasting relationships— with homebuyers and realtors alike—by offering thoughtful communication, strategic marketing, and seamless systems to make every transaction smooth and stress-free.
Jill Underwood Founder & Chief Loan Officer
Investing In All Things
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
Investing financially was very difficult for my husband and myself when we first got married and started a family. We were working hard to take care of our responsibilities and it seemed impossible to set even a small amount aside. We were encouraged to set aside anything possible from each paycheck and that would add up over time. Naturally I look back and wonder what we could have achieved with just a little more advice from someone with a financial background and experience in financial planning. I have had the pleasure of getting to know a handful of financial advisors through our partnerships that have enlightened me on the various aspects of investing. It had never occurred to me that they could offer more options outside of the basic stock market investments. They dig deep into all areas of investing as well as your spending! I am encouraging my girls to seek this out early when it matters the most.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.
Cheers to a year of prosperous gains and fruitful ventures!
LAURA PASZKIEWICZ, PUBLISHER
Visit our Instagram
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Laura Paszkiewicz | laura@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Stephanie Williams | stephanie.williams@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Judy Goppert, Lauren Powers
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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— Chuck F.
Cockrell Mercantile Receiving Fiestaware's Newest Color Tableware
Fiesta Dinnerware has released its new color collection for 2025, Linen. This neutral color is meant to be versatile and work with many colors. Additionally, the new color is expected to attract an expanded customer base that enjoys a subtle style of decorating. Cockrell Mercantile will be among one of the first locations to receive the first shipments. www.cockrellmercantile.com/
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• No more hassles with claims
• No more limitations
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• No more exclusions
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SereniTea Boutique & The Paperback Bakery Now Open
SereniTea Boutique & The Paperback Bakery, now open, share a cozy space in the heart of the 3rd Street corridor in Lee’s Summit (500 SW 3rd Street, Suite A, next door to 80Luxe Salon). The Paperback Bakery crafts a daily selection of fresh pastries and custom cakes, perfect for pairing with a cup of something special from SereniTea Boutique, offering a curated selection of loose and packaged teas, custom-blended essential oils, and unique gifts.
Apothecary Wines & Spirits Celebrates One Year in Lee’s Summit
Apothecary Wines & Spirits recently celebrated its one-year anniversary! As proud residents of Lee’s Summit, the team is passionate about bringing unique wines and spirits to their neighbors in New Longview. Their goal is to make exploring exceptional drinks fun and approachable, offering regular tastings and a thoughtfully curated selection. Apothecary Wines & Spirits is located at 400 SW Longview Blvd #190, and you can follow them on Instagram @apothecary_lsmo.
Bringing the personal touch back into medicine
Foot Care Specialist
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
In today’s medical world, it’s easy to feel like just another number in the system—rushed appointments, long wait times, and surprise bills seem to be the norm. Foot care specialist, Dr. Joel Foster is changing the game when it comes to foot and ankle care. He’s made it his mission to bring back the personal touch to medicine, putting patients first instead of insurance companies.
“I feel that there are many things that set us apart, including the fact that we are the only direct care foot and ankle clinic in the region,” says Dr. Foster. “We have eliminated all of the insurance headaches. We have up-front costs, so patients know exactly what procedures will cost before we do them, allowing them to make informed decisions. We offer the best of both worlds, whether you have insurance or not.”
In a traditional medical setting, insurance companies dictate much of the process. At Dr. Foster's office, the focus is solely on the patient.
“When dealing with third-party insurance companies, doctors and patients are no longer in control of the process. They are forced into rushed appointments, mandated treatment plans, long wait times for approval, and unbelievably complex fee schedules. We believe patient care should be between the patient and their doctor—no one else.”
This direct care model means patients know exactly what they’re paying before they receive treatment.
“Our current model is very simple. You call the office if you have a foot or ankle issue. We can usually see you within 48 hours and many times the same day that you call. We listen to your concerns and together come up with a treatment plan that is specific to you. All of this with upfront, transparent and low cost pricing. A very comprehensive price list is available on our website. No treatment is ever rendered until the patient understands the charges and agrees to proceed, unlike dealing with insurance where you get treated, have no idea what anything costs, and then wait for bills to start rolling in months later. Urgent care costs 20 times more. We can see patients right away, and they’ll never receive a surprise bill from us.”
Dr. Foster’s office offers an impressive range of advanced treatments from calibrated custom foot orthotics, to regenerative medicine, to minimally invasive foot surgery.
“We have complete 3D foot and ankle imaging, weight-bearing foot and ankle CT, ultrasound, a complete therapy room with Aquaroll treatment, sound wave treatment, and a robotic multiwave locked dual wavelength laser. We even have an in-office surgical suite where we perform many of our minimally invasive surgical procedures, including a unique approach for flat foot repair.”
For athletes, from high school students to professionals, the clinic offers innovative non-invasive therapies designed to get them back on their feet.
"All of these therapies are essential for athletes, as they seek to accelerate the recovery process throughout the season. We can get them in quickly because we’re a small family practice, not a corporation.”
Dr. Foster’s expertise in foot and ankle care is unmatched with 24 years of private practice experience, 19 of those in Lee’s Summit.
He is double board certified by both the ABFAS and ABMSP and is the only doctor in the Kansas City metro area board certified in minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery. He’s also an associate with the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons.
“I have the best staff that cares about every patient that calls or comes in the door. That’s why people travel across the country to come to our Lee’s Summit office for their care. We have been fortunate to treat patients from Alabama, California, Colorado, Oklahoma, Iowa, New Mexico, and Canada.”
Beyond his extensive medical background, Dr. Foster has a personal connection to the challenges his patients face. As a marathon runner, he understands the toll that foot and ankle injuries can take, and as someone who has battled cancer, he knows the importance of compassionate, attentive healthcare. He founded his direct care clinic because he truly cares not just about treating conditions, but about the people behind them.
“I grew up in the Kansas City area and have lived here the majority of my life. I wanted to go into a field of medicine that allowed me to treat patients of all ages, had both a clinical approach as well as surgical approach, and allowed me to work with and treat athletes as I have been involved in sports my entire life. This made podiatry the perfect fit.
“We focus on patients rather than on insurance. We ask how can we help you? What is your issue? How can we help you get better? People want someone to listen to them. Most doctors are lucky to have five minutes—we don’t work like that. We take our time and listen.”
Dr. Foster's office is located at 6 NW Sycamore Street Suite A in Lee's Summit. For more information, visit joelfosterdpm.com
Our office is the first and only provider in the region to have this new laser. Many different conditions benefit from laser therapy, including:
If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain or inflammation, our new 50-watt Robotic M7 MLS Therapy Laser is a safe, FDA-approved tool that can help you recover faster from chronic conditions, sports injuries, wounds or nerve pain.
• Heel pain (plantar fasciitis, bursitis, Achilles tendinitis and diabetic wounds)
• Stress fractures, sports injury or repetitive strain fracture
• Nerve pain
Dr. Joel Foster, DPM
• Board certified podiatric surgeon
• Proudly serving patients since 2006
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
BY
JANIE JONES
FRENCH BY DESIGN
Bringing Timeless Antiques to Kansas City
PHOTOGRAPHY
In the heart of Kansas City’s antique scene, French by Design is a treasure trove of authentic French antiques, hand-selected and brought across seas by a team with a deep passion for history and design. The business, founded in 1999, has grown from a single booth in Mission Road Antique Mall to a well-established name in both Kansas City and Texas, with a loyal following of collectors, designers, and homeowners looking for unique, high-quality pieces.
The story of French by Design begins in 1998, when one of the owners was living in France, collecting antiques for personal enjoyment. A visit from her sister sparked an idea—why not share these treasures with others? Upon returning to the U.S., the sister took the leap, securing a booth in Mission Road Antique Mall in 1999. Since then, the business has evolved significantly, expanding to Texas in 2008 and participating in monthly shows in Kansas City’s West Bottoms from 2009 to 2018.
Unlike many antique dealers who rely on third-party suppliers, French by Design takes a hands-on approach, traveling to France three to four times a year to personally curate their collection. They work closely with trusted dealers they have built relationships with over the years, ensuring that every piece they acquire meets their high standards for authenticity and quality.
Between trips, they continue sourcing through their trusted network, guaranteeing a steady influx of rare and unique finds. Each container shipped back is filled with a diverse mix of items, from opulent gilded mirrors and mid-century modern furniture to rustic French provincial pieces and religious artifacts.
What truly sets French by Design apart is its comprehensive approach to antiques. “We don’t feature just one look or style,” they explain. “We sell very elegant French pieces with lots of gilt and mirror, but also great mid-century French and Italian design, French provincial and country items, religious artifacts, and more.”
Beyond furniture, their collection includes an array of carefully curated accessories such as kitchenware, books, mirrors, lighting, art, garden pieces, opaline glass, barware, and more. Their goal is to offer a complete package, allowing customers to not only find a beautiful cabinet but also everything to fill it with.
Every piece chosen by French by Design reflects the team’s taste and aesthetic. “We buy items that we would use in our own homes,” they share. “We love everything we sell, but we’d need several homes to keep it all!”
Their keen eye for design extends beyond individual pieces to entire vignettes. They create fully realized displays that help
customers visualize how the antiques can be incorporated into their homes. Whether it’s an entire dining set, a bookshelf styled to perfection, or a soldier-themed display, French by Design makes it easy for buyers to see their pieces in a lived-in setting.
Ensuring authenticity is a top priority for the team. “In France, it is illegal to misrepresent the age or authenticity of an item,” they note. Thanks to their long-standing relationships with reputable dealers and the expertise gained from years of living in France, they confidently stand behind the provenance of every item they sell.
While most pieces are sold in original condition, some require careful restoration. The team works with a trusted carpenter for refurbishments, occasionally stripping wood pieces to their raw form or refinishing them to enhance their beauty while preserving their history.
One of the most fascinating aspects of antique furniture is its timelessness. “We have never really struggled with integrating antiques into modern homes,” they explain. “So many of these items adapt beautifully to contemporary spaces.”
Among their most recent unique finds are a pair of black cabinets from the late 1600s or early 1700s, astonishingly modern in appearance despite their age. Other standout pieces include grand gilded frames likely from Italian churches or castles and a stunning 14-foot-wide tapestry that should belong in a museum.
Antique trends come and go, and French by Design has its finger on the pulse. Currently, tapestries are highly sought after, along with opaline glass, which has gained popularity in recent years after decades of being an underappreciated gem.
Other in-demand items include bar carts and nesting tables from the 1940s and 50s, vintage leather sofas and club chairs from the 1930s to the 1970s, and restored copper kitchenware sourced from French chateaus.
French by Design caters to a broad audience. Their clientele includes dedicated collectors, interior designers sourcing for high-end projects, and homeowners seeking to infuse character and charm into their spaces. Whether customers are hunting for a statement piece or simply looking for vintage kitchen accessories, French by Design offers something for everyone.
For those eager to explore French by Design’s latest finds, upcoming events provide the perfect opportunity. Their next major showcase will be at Blue Hills in Round Top, Texas, from March 22 to April 5. Afterward, any remaining inventory will be brought back to their Kansas City warehouse in the West Bottoms.
Their Texas operations have grown significantly over the years. They make several trips annually, bringing in fresh inventory and hosting shows in the fall, winter, and spring. While their Kansas City warehouse is not a traditional showroom, they accommodate regular customers by appointment and even offer virtual consultations for those unable to visit in person.
What began as a personal passion has transformed into a thriving business, one that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. With a keen eye for quality, a deep appreciation for history, and a commitment to offering customers a truly immersive experience, French by Design remains a standout destination for French antique lovers near and far. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, stepping into the world of French by Design is like stepping into a story—one that has been carefully preserved and lovingly curated just for you. Find them on Instagram: @fbdantiques
GAME DAY MEN’S HEALTH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Every man has his own personal motivation for prioritizing his health. Whether it's the desire to be a better partner, better father, or just a better version of themself to regain vitality as they age. Understanding this "why" is crucial for making lasting changes—changes that not only improve physical health but help each man live their best physical, emotional and intimate life.
An increasing number of men are realizing that lasting health improvements don't require a total lifestyle overhaul. Instead, they often come from small, manageable habits—consistent actions that are easy to adopt and sustain. Gameday Men’s Health leads the way with this approach, offering personalized solutions for men of all ages looking to achieve their healthiest lives.
Gameday isn’t your average medical office. With leather chairs facing TVs playing ESPN and UFC, walls adorned with sports murals, and an overall atmosphere of camaraderie, it’s designed to be a space where men can unwind and discuss their health openly. The team there understands the unique needs of men, aiming to educate and bring awareness to the often-overlooked topic of men's health.
NOT YOUR AVERAGE MEN’S MEDICAL OFFICE
At Gameday Men’s Health, patients range in age from their 20's to 80's. Every first visit is complimentary. It includes first and foremost a comprehensive listening session to understand their issue, then testosterone testing to establish baseline levels. It’s important for all men to come in, regardless of age, because testosterone levels naturally decline over time; more so in recent two decades for many reasons such as environmental and processed foods. Even at the best level, testosterone typically begins to decline around age 30, or even earlier for some. While the drop may be sudden for some, for others, it’s a more gradual change and over time they feel exhausted, mental fogginess, low energy and mood, declining sexual health, gaining belly fat and losing muscle and strength amongst many other subtle symptoms. Some attribute these to being busy and working too much and some attribute it to depression. Regardless, you won’t know where your levels stand and if low T causes these until you get tested and have the opportunity to discuss it with a professional.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a key part of Gameday’s approach, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The team works to create a personalized, holistic plan for each patient to help them achieve optimal health. This plan includes diet guidance from a licensed nutritionist and practical fitness tips. For some patients, this simply involves adding more movement into their daily routines.
Gameday was specifically designed to support men dealing with low testosterone (Low T) and erectile dysfunction (ED). It also offers comprehensive medical weight loss programs and vitamin therapy. Its main goal is to help men reach their fullest potential in a comfortable environment, with knowledgeable medical staff crafting customized health strategies to get them back to doing what they love and living with purpose.
They offer proven cutting edge technology and procedures for ED. Have a high tech full body composition analyzer machine, telling your metabolic rate, fat and muscle percentile and muscle strength to help track your weight loss and muscle gain journey for weight loss and TRT patients. They bring technology and personalized medicine in a manly comfortable clinic to the local level.
Low testosterone can result from a variety of factors, including aging, specific medical conditions, medications, and excessive alcohol use. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress also contribute to lower testosterone levels. Symptoms of Low T can impact sexual health, leading to erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass and strength, increased body fat, fatigue, and mood changes such as irritability and depression.
What sets Gameday apart is the regular check-ins with patients, where they receive weekly injections. These visits provide an opportunity to revisit the goals they set at their initial appointment, helping to reignite their motivation.
With a supportive team behind them, Gameday’s patients gain the confidence and consistency necessary to meet their health goals, ultimately.
THE POWER OF ZERO
SUMMIT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
INVEST IN
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
YOUR GREENS
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
SPRING SPECIALS
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
MARINA 27 STEAK & SEAFOOD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Spring has arrived at Marina 27 Steak & Seafood, bringing with it a fresh selection of dishes that highlight vibrant flavors and seasonal ingredients. One standout dish is the Blackened Redfish on a Panzanella Salad, featuring succulent redfish served over a bed of crispy, colorful salad with blue crab, creole vinaigrette, and a smooth English pea puree. This dish is a perfect blend of Southern charm and fresh spring produce.
Also new this season is the Filet Admiral, an indulgent entrée consisting of an 8oz Prime Filet Mignon paired with three colossal grilled shrimp. This dish is served on a rich smoky bleu cheese sauce with a side of tender asparagus tips, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
In addition, Hawaiian Big Eye Ahi Tuna will be prepared in various ways throughout the spring and summer, adding an exciting twist to the menu for seafood lovers.
Don’t forget to check out Marina 27’s Happy Hour Menu and rotating Weekly Specials, offering even more opportunities to enjoy delicious dishes. For more information or to explore the full menu, visit www.marina27.com
realty report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN LEE’S SUMMIT.
This data is a sampling of sold properties from February 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.
THERE IS NO REASON TO STRESS WITH SMART ASSISTANCE
Retire Happy and Safe
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“No matter how old you are, planning with a professional will improve your chances of reaching your goals.”
Martin Tax & Financial Services was opened in 1987 by Michael Martin. They began as a tax preparation firm and after recognizing the need for tax advice in connection with clients’ investment accounts, Mike added wealth management and retirement planning services to the firm’s offerings.
Laurie Martin, Mike’s daughter, took over ownership of Martin Tax & Financial Services in 2017 after practicing law for several years. Since taking over, she has carried on the firm’s mission of helping clients plan for their financial futures, with retirement planning being a key focus.
She explained that the first step in retirement planning is identifying your financial goals and gaining a clear understanding of your current financial situation. Your financial advisor will ask detailed questions about you, your family and your objectives. They will need information about your income, expenses, assets and debts, including copies of your tax returns and recent statements reflecting any of that information, such as your retirement plans, investments, and any loans.
Some of the initial questions your advisor will ask are:
• What age would you like to retire? • How much income do you expect to need to maintain your standard of living in retirement? • Do you hope to travel, explore new hobbies or spend time with family and friends after you retire? • Are there any major expenses you expect to incur? • Will you continue to work parttime or have other income sources in retirement? • Do you have any health concerns that will impact your finances or longevity?
“It is never too early or too late to begin thinking about retirement. Starting in your 20s or 30s is ideal, as it gives you the longest runway for ensuring you reach your goals. In your 40s and 50s, you still have an opportunity to make significant progress with smart financial strategies,” she continued. “No matter how old you are, planning with a professional will improve your chances of reaching your goals.”
While saving is important, preparing for retirement isn’t just about saving, it’s about creating a strategy that ensures financial security and peace of mind. Laurie shared some essential steps to help you build a strong retirement plan:
• Maximize your retirement account contributions • Be sure to save outside of your retirement accounts as well • Create an emergency fund • Create a plan for paying off debt • Diversify your investments • Ensure you have appropriate insurance coverages • Develop a tax-efficient strategy for withdrawing from your accounts • Work with a financial advisor who is knowledgeable about taxes • Create an estate plan to protect your legacy
She explained, “A financial advisor can advise you on how to maximize the impact of each of these steps and help you ensure you’re on the right path. You should think of retirement planning as an ongoing process rather than a task to complete. As your circumstances change or new events occur in your life, you should update your plan. Working with an advisor will help you keep things organized and up to date.”
Their financial advisors are well-versed in taxes, which sets them apart. Taxes impact your financial situation throughout your working life and into retirement. Making tax-conscious financial decisions and investing in a tax-efficient manner can significantly affect your long-term wealth.
“Tax laws change frequently. It is important to work with an advisor who stays up to date on the latest tax laws. We also value education, and our goal is to empower our clients with knowledge that will allow them to grow in their understanding of their finances,” she shared.
The best first step is to meet with a financial advisor. A skilled financial advisor will answer all of your questions and explain the process to you in a straightforward and understandable way. Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it becomes a clear and manageable journey.
Some common misconceptions about retirement planning and / or working with a financial advisor:
You don’t have enough money – Everyone can benefit from financial planning and guidance, no matter how much money they have.
You can’t afford it. Retirement planning costs vary by advisor, and many offer payment plans or reduced fees for clients with fewer assets or less complex situations. Some advisors will include financial planning at no additional cost if you allow them to manage your investments. A good advisor will clearly explain all fees involved.
You’re too young/old – You’re never too young or too old to start saving and planning for your future.
Fear of judgement – Many people feel embarrassed about what they don’t know, or fear being judged for past financial mistakes. A good financial advisor provides guidance without judgment and helps clients build confidence in their financial future.
Ultimately, retirement planning isn’t just about saving, it’s about creating a strategy that supports your long-term financial well-being. Martin Tax & Financial Services is committed to providing the expertise and personalized service needed to help you make informed, tax smart decisions and secure the future you’ve worked hard for.
Visit mtfskc.com
Exploring Nature: The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Kids
Children today have fewer opportunities to explore the outdoors, as digital entertainment and packed schedules often keep them inside. Yet, outdoor play remains a vital part of childhood, supporting physical, mental, and social development. Time in nature allows kids to move, think, and interact in ways that promote their overall well-being.
Physical Health: Building Strength and Stamina
Outdoor play promotes movement in ways indoor spaces often restrict. Running, jumping, and climbing develop strength, coordination, and balance while supporting muscle and bone growth. Unlike structured exercise, free play engages the whole body dynamically. Sunlight boosts vitamin D production for strong bones, while fresh air helps strengthen the immune system. Research shows kids who play outside regularly have a lower risk of obesity, heart disease, and other long-term health issues.
Mental and Emotional Well-Being: A Natural Stress Reliever
Nature has a calming effect on the brain. Playing outside reduces stress, boosts mood, and helps children manage anxiety and frustration. Sunlight increases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation. Exposure to natural light also regulates sleep cycles, ensuring children get the rest they need.
Outdoor play has also been linked to improved focus and attention. Studies suggest that children who spend time in nature regularly show better concentration, especially those with ADHD. The sights, sounds, and textures of the outdoors provide sensory experiences that help children feel more grounded and relaxed.
Cognitive Development: Cultivating Curiosity and Creativity
Nature has a calming effect on the brain. Playing outside reduces stress, boosts mood, and helps children manage anxiety. Sunlight increases serotonin, promoting happiness and relaxation, while natural light regulates sleep cycles. Outdoor play also improves focus and attention. Studies show children who spend time in nature concentrate better, especially those with ADHD. The sights, sounds, and textures of the outdoors provide sensory experiences that help kids feel more grounded and relaxed.
Social Development: Learning Through Play
Outdoor play fosters social skills, allowing children to navigate interactions independently, take turns, share, and resolve conflicts. It also encourages teamwork—whether building a fort, organizing a game, or exploring
together, kids practice communication, cooperation, and leadership. These experiences build empathy and emotional intelligence. Time in nature also deepens their connection to the environment, making them more likely to appreciate and engage in sustainable behaviors.
Encouraging Outdoor Play:
Simple Ways to
Make it a Priority
Modern life often pushes outdoor play aside, making it difficult to prioritize between school, homework, and screen time. However, with effort, it can become a regular habit. Setting aside daily outdoor time—whether a walk, a park visit, or backyard play—reinforces the routine. Creating an outdoorfriendly space with simple items like balls or jump ropes also encourages kids to step outside. Parents play a key role in fostering a love for nature. Children who see adults enjoying outdoor activities are more likely to embrace them. Limiting screen time and offering outdoor alternatives like scavenger hunts or nature walks can help shift their focus.
Letting Kids Be Kids—Outside
Outdoor play is more than just a way for children to expend energy—it’s fundamental to their growth and well-being. Time in nature strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and nurtures social skills. It fosters creativity, builds resilience, and encourages a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.
In a world dominated by screens and busy schedules, prioritizing outdoor play is more important than ever. Whether it’s a short walk, an afternoon at the park, or an adventure in the woods, getting kids outside is one of the best investments in their future.
Supporting Your Child’s Health—Every Step of the Way
Encouraging outdoor play supports your child’s physical and mental wellbeing. Fresh air, movement, and time in nature strengthen the immune system, improve focus, and promote a healthier, happier childhood. However, parents sometimes worry about outdoor-related concerns like seasonal allergies, minor injuries, or sun exposure.
At Community Choice Pediatrics, we’re committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to help your child thrive year-round. Whether you have questions about outdoor safety or need guidance on managing seasonal allergies, our team is here to help.
Schedule an appointment today to ensure your child stays healthy and active. Visit our website to book a consultation and get expert pediatric care tailored to your child’s needs.
Healthier Together, Always.
Vaccines And Physicals? We’ve Got You Covered!
From Kindergarten Roundup to elementary and beyond, schools require up-to-date vaccines and physicals for registration.
Don’t wait! Book your appointment today!
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What does it mean to be rich?
Joel Wilson CFP®
Laura Hudson AAMS™