‘ Novel ’
CHOICE IN THE CROSSROADS ELEVATING EDGERTON
NOV ‘21 | Vol. 11 No. 7
Southwest Joco Destination
7 THINGS
HOMETOWN COOKIN’ FOR THANKSGIVING
AROUND TOWN SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS
DEAR KACIE
THE NEW TRAVEL-FREE HOLIDAYS
FRESH
&
BOLD
IN HOLIDAY CASUAL
EXPLORING KC WITH YOUR TEEN
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Actual Patient: Mariah Davis, Miss Oklahoma USA 2020 & Second Runner-up Miss USA 2020
12850 Metcalf Ave., Ste. 200 Overland Park, KS RESTORATIVE • INVISALIGN GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY 2 | SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2021
913.491.6874 kcsmile.com
A t Aesthetic Surgical Arts/
Mia Bella Donna Medspa, Dr. Joseph Camarata and his staff are dedicated to providing the highest quality patient care through honesty, kindness and personal respect.
Holiday Gift Certificate Purchase a $250 Gift Card for $199
Free Lash & Brow Tint With Purchase of Deluxe Hydrafacial
Dr. Joseph C. Camarata, M.D., D.M.D.
Must be purchased in November 2021
12541 Foster Street, Ste. 330 Overland Park, KS 913.827.9898 asa-kc.com
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appointments to book this fall at
Kansas City's
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Yoga & Meditation Classes
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Reiki Energy Healing Session
Newest Healing Arts Collective 2
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Sauna Session A session in our Sunlighten near-infrared sauna is exactly what your body needs during the changing seasons! Whether your goal is weight loss, antiaging, or detox - we have sessions for everyone. You’re guaranteed to leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, rejuvenated, and warm!
Fall Facial At Very Well KC, pumpkin spice isn't just for taste buds. Treat yourself this fall season to a Very Hydrated Autumn facial or the Very Well Ultimate fall facial! Brighten your skin, replenish your natural hydration, and improve your skin's elasticity all while enjoying the cozy aromas of pumpkin and fall spices!
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At Very Well KC, our classes are carefully curated by our instructors and staff to make sure there is something for everyone. Whether you are a novice or an experienced yoga enthusiast, you’ll find the perfect class here. A comprehensive list of classes can be found at verywellkc.com.
Energy healing is a traditional healing system that restores the balance and flow of energy through the body, mind, and soul. After a session, you will feel a sense of peace, a clear intuition, and will be ready to take on anything. Come heal with us!
Hot Stone Massage
Memberships Available
As we are greeted with cooler temperatures, nothing will feel better than a Hot Stone Massage. Ashley handpicked her hot stones from a beach in Hawaii and has been told by many of her clients the hot stones feel like sunshine! (Mention this ad for a complimentary Love Cupping! First-time clients only.)
We have a variety of memberships, created for people who want to experience different healing modalities and make it a part of their every day lives!
special advertsing section
As a member, you have access to exclusive monthly specials & discounted pricing on services! Find membership details on our website at verywellkc.com.
Skincare • Beauty • Wellness • Lifestyle
NOVEMBER
A SKINCARE STUDIO
Special
Get your lashes fall-ready! Perm, Lift + Boost your lashes - $90 *special incentive emails or discounts can’t be applied to monthly specials
Book under November Lash Special @bloomaskincarestudio
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Visit our website to schedule your appointment with any of our experienced stylists. havensalonsuiteskc.com 4741 W. 134th St., Leawood, KS
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CONTENTS
AROUND TOWN 12
SHOP SMALL IN OVERLAND PARK
LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE 14 PARENTING 16
ACTIVITIES TO KEEP YOUR TWEENS AND TEENS BUSY (AND HAPPY) THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
WHO WHAT WHERE 18 MEET RACHEL SEXTON
INFOCUS 20
DESTINATIONS LANDING IN SOUTHWEST JOHNSON COUNTY
LOCAL GOOD EATS 22 40
BE WELL 24
28
ADVENTHEALTH BRINGS HEALTH CARE CLOSER TO HOME
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34
FASHION 28
FRESH AND BOLD IN HOLIDAY CASUAL
BEAUTY 34
READY YOUR SKIN FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH THESE SKINCARE TIPS
DISH 36
NOVEL KC OFFERS A DELECTABLY UNIQUE CULINARY EXPERIENCE
BECAUSE I SAID SO 38 A 40-YEAR-OLD’S SPEECH
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7 THINGS 40
SEVEN THANKSGIVING DISHES TO TRY THIS YEAR FROM OUR SIMPLYKC TEAM
DEAR KACIE 42
ALONE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
GOOD TASTES 44
THE JOY OF FAMILY TRADITIONS
BOOKISH 46
THANKFUL, GRATEFUL, BLESSED: THE BEST JOURNEYS ARE TRAVELED WITHIN
APP 50
CONNECT WITH YOUR LOVED ONES THROUGH MARCO POLO
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
GIVING THANKS TO THE SIMPLYKC MAGAZINE FAMILY It’s about this time of year when I begin to take stock of the things truly important in my life. Family, friends—these two groups are very dear to me and I can’t imagine life without them. But I’d like to offer my gratitude to another important group of people in my world: All those who have helped make SIMPLYkc Magazine so successful. To our advertisers, thank you! Without you, this magazine would not be possible. I encourage every reader to visit these local businesses that breathe life into our great city. To our contributors, I am forever grateful. Whether you’ve been with us since the launch of this magazine, have come and gone, or are just starting out, I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with you. And, saving the best for last, we want to give special thanks to all our readers. The KC community has always been incredibly welcoming and inclusive. We strive to shine a light on the people and experiences that make this town so amazing, in addition to entertaining and inspiring you each month. I hope we have accomplished that. Thank you for picking up this copy of our magazine. This November, I hope you too can find the time to take stock of your life and identify the people and opportunities for which you’re most grateful. From all of us at SIMPLYkc Magazine, happy Thanksgiving!
Suzanne Steiner, Publisher
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RODROCK’S PREMIER MASTER-PL ANNED COMMUNIT Y
New Homes in the Blue Valley School District
Visit Ro d ro c k .co m for m o re in fo r m at io n
From $500s to $1 million+
Contact Community Managers: 913-991-8095 SundanceRidge@Rodrock.com Located at 175th St. & 3 blocks East of Mission Rd.
© 2021 RODROCK DEVELOPMENT
PUBLISHER Suzanne Steiner suz@simplykcmag.com MANAGING EDITOR Brennan Hallock of Hallock Writing & Design editor@simplykcmag.com PHOTOGRAPHY Jami Bowman of Electric Imagez, Melanie McDowell, Visit Overland Park, Morgan Miller, Blue Coffee Pictures, Novel KC, Jenny Wheat CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julie Burton, Sophie Oswald, Gina Reardon, Tiffany Killoren, T.E. Cunningham, Shannon E. Roesgen, Judy Goppert, Jackie Woods, Allison Gibeson ART DIRECTOR Julie Faerman, Whoo Design ADVERTISING Gretchen McGraw, Sales 620.474.5859 sales@simplykcmag.com INQUIRIES SIMPLYkc Magazine 11730 W. 135th St., Ste. 116 Overland Park, KS 66221 913.209.9394 contact@simplykcmag.com simplykcmag.com
COVER & FASHION IMAGES PHOTOS • Samantha Levi, samanthalevi.com, @samstownusa MODELS • Tiffany Meeks & Jennifer Nagaoka with Voices &, 118 Walnut, Suite 120, Kansas City, MO, 816.753.4261, voicesand.com, @voicesandmodels WARDROBE • The Plaid Elephant, 7951 W. 160th St., Suite 530, Overland Park, KS, 913.318.0058, theplaidelephantshop.com, @theplaidelephantshop HAIR • Jen Kelly, Frankie’s Salon & Spa, 705 W. Amity St., Louisburg, KS, @frankieshairsalon MAKEUP • Mae Monroe, 913.369.5446, maemonroe.business@gmail.com, @maemonroe.artistry SHOT ON LOCATIONS • Phare, 3216 Gillham Plaza, Ste. 250, Kansas City, MO & Billie’s Grocery, 3216 Gillham Plaza, Kansas City, MO
SIMPLYkc Magazine is published monthly by Mach Publications, LLC. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of SIMPLYkc Magazine. All rights reserved. SIMPLYkc Magazine accepts no infringement or other responsibility for unsolicited or contributed copy, artwork, photography, or advertisements. No representation is made as to the accuracy hereof and is printed subject to omissions and errors. Opinions and statements in SIMPLYkc Magazine are contributed by authors and/or advertisers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SIMPLYkc Magazine. Photography and material in the publication as well as design may not be copied or reproduced in any form without written permission. References for copy will be made available upon written request. All rights reserved. ©2021, Mach Publications, LLC.
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romanellioptix.com
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816.333.0071 | 913.897.0071 | 913.327.0071 Kansas City | Leawood | Overland Park
913.232.7906 4760 W. 135th St., Leawood, KS
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AROUND TOWN The General Store & Co.
SHOP SMALL
IN OVERLAND PARK WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT OVERLAND PARK
K
ansas City, Missouri, is known for a lot of things. Barbecue. Jazz. Fountains. Mahomes. Most of us consider ourselves Kansas Citians. But in reality, many of us live or work outside of the big city. The KC metro is made up of many cities, and each city has its own personality, each sharing big brother KCMO in their backyard.
Gift Shoppe has a wide variety of gifts: socks, bags, art supplies, aprons, mugs, drinkware, and candles. Pro tip: get in there fast to snag a “Kelce’s Cologne” candle.
The General Store & Co. 7922 Santa Fe Dr. Overland Park, KS
Overland Park, Kansas, is the second-most populous city in the state of Kansas. It’s also the largest city in the nation with “park” in its name. You can’t miss “America’s Largest Inhabited Park.” Overland Park is home to many small businesses where you’ll find something unique for everyone on your shopping list. And you don’t need to wait on two-day shipping from Amazon!
“We like to have fun” is written on their website. It’s easy to see how much fun the owners really have when you walk into The General Store & Co. in Downtown Overland Park. Need the perfect white elephant gift to get all the laughs? It’s The General Store and Co.’s specialty. But true to its name, The General Store & Co. has everything you need for a great gift. Food and drinks, Kansas City shirts, retro gifts for the kids, and some pretty darn funny cards too.
The Green Door Book Store and Gift Shoppe
Vinyl Renaissance & Audio
7713 W. 151st St. Overland Park, KS
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Indie bookstores are known for their great service, and this bookstore in south Overland Park sets the bar high. Stop in to browse the latest must-reads. Let the kids play in the kid section. And fit a piece or two on the community puzzle. Not a reader? You should be because books are magic. But if you’re not, The Green Door Book Store and
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9038 Metcalf Ave. Overland Park, KS The Green Door Book Store and Gift Shoppe
Vinyl Renaissance & Audio
Elite Comics
Formerly located in Downtown Overland Park, Vinyl Renaissance & Audio moved just down the road, and they’re better than ever. It’s the perfect place for vinyl music collectors to spend hours browsing. Or music lovers to spend hours too. Come on, everyone loves music! Take the kids to show them what shopping for music really looks like. Browse CDs, cassettes, vinyl, and music systems. Vinyl Renaissance & Audio also offers posters, apparel, and modern audio equipment. Go check them out and “walk this way … talk this way.” That’s an Aerosmith joke.
The Culinary Center of Kansas City 7920 Santa Fe Dr. Overland Park, KS Everyone’s gotta eat, and The Culinary Center of Kansas City makes sure you
The Culinary Center of Kansas City
eat well. The Culinary Center of Kansas City loves food. They love people who love food. And they love stories about food. Located in Downtown Overland Park (walking distance from The General Store & Co.), it’s not just a store where you can get quality kitchen gadgets. You can also pick up pre-made frozen dinners made by the chefs of The Culinary Center of Kansas City. And you can even sign up to take cooking or baking classes. It’s a perfect date night gift!
Elite Comics 11842 Quivira Rd. Overland Park, KS Okay, kids. Here ya go! Whether you’re a big kid who’s been collecting comic books for years or if you’re introducing brand new kids to comics—check out Elite Comics. Elite Comics has been in the same location for 29 years. But that doesn’t mean it’s the same inventory. Elite Comics gets shipments weekly, and they are always buying new collections. Last minute shopper? Perfect. Owner William Binderup says, “I had Amazing Fantasy 15, which was the first appearance of Spider-Man, which was a $15,000 comic book. A couple years ago I sold it on Christmas Eve, and now we are always open on Christmas Eve.”
The Family Tree Nursery 8424 Farley St. Overland Park, KS November isn’t exactly the month you think of when you think of greenhouses. But it will be now. Step into The Family Tree Nursery’s greenhouse and step back into perfect weather. Its signature coffee house, Café Equinox, is under construction this winter, but the greenhouse is still open. Bring your own coffee and take a seat under a palm tree to be instantly transported forward to spring. Leave feeling refreshed with some new home décor, inspiration, and a poinsettia or two.
The Family Tree Nursery
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Local
HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE
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LOCAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE
The Pretty Posy is a women’s boutique in the heart of quaint and beautiful Downtown Overland Park. We bring you clothing, accessories, and gifts with a feminine and sophisticated style, a vintage vibe, and the perfect touch of trend. All of our jewelry and gifts are from small businesses both local and from around the country. We want to help you shop small this holiday season!
Cuorebella is an uncommon shop where you’ll find unique gifts, holiday decor, home accessories, fine cards, and stationery. Gifts are wrapped and ready to present.
Hawthorne Plaza, 4953 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.325.7354 • cuorebella.com
7942 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS • 913.283.7013 prettyposyboutique.com • Instagram & Facebook: @theprettyposykc
Custom pet portraits are the best gifts ever! Gallery V Fine Arts will help capture your pet’s unique character in a 3-D palette knife painting by Italian artist, Nicoletta Belletti. The gallery offers original selections in painting, sculpture, glass, ceramics, jewelry and gifts. Open Tuesday-Saturday and by appointment. Aesthetic Surgical Arts/Mia Bella Donna Medspa is focused on providing professional yet personalized aesthetic and wellness services. Give the gift of self-care with our holiday gift certificate special. Purchase a $250 gift certificate for $199.
Mission Farms West, 4020 Indian Creek Parkway, Overland Park, KS • 913.341.3483 • galleryvfinearts.com
12541 Foster St. Ste. 330, Overland Park, KS • 913.827.9898 • asa-kc.com
Junque Drawer—We are located in a vintage three-story home in downtown Olathe. We carry eclectic gifts, handmade items, embellishments, home decor, apparel, sips, and sweets. Come visit us this holiday season!
Our Seasonal Pop-Up is back this year at Town Center Plaza! We offer a collection of Seasonal & Home Decor, Furniture, Home Fragrances, Gifts, Premium Faux Florals & More. Your one stop shop for all things holiday. Come Curious, Leave Inspired.
4840 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS • 785.250.7720 reddoorhomestore.com
233 S. Cherry, Olathe, KS • 913.261.8183 SIMPLYKCMAG.COM
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PARENTING
ACTIVITIES TO KEEP YOUR TWEENS AND TEENS BUSY (AND HAPPY) THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
WRITTEN BY SHANNON E. ROESGEN
“The adolescent must never be treated as a child, for that is a stage of life he has surpassed.” —Maria Montessori
A
s the season transitions to winter, finding activities to get our teens and tweens out of the house becomes a challenge. In addition, the holiday season easily quadruples a parent’s to-do list. It is indeed the busiest time of the year. Here are some ideas for indoor activities that will help keep your teens and tweens active and busy in healthy and safe environments this season.
The Ceramic Cafe Located in the Nall Hills shopping center in Overland Park, The Ceramic Cafe offers a creative space for your teens and tweens to emit some creative energy. Walk-ins are always welcome, but reservations are recommended.
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The Ceramic Cafe is a lovely destination for the family or a great place for teens to spend some quality time physically interacting with one another. Task your teens with making Christmas presents for the family. What parent wouldn’t want a handmade painted coffee cup? What grandparent wouldn’t love a painted platter from a grandchild? There are hundreds of options for heartfelt, handmade holiday gifts. Sara Thompson, president of The Ceramic Cafe, strongly believes in giving back to the community, and your teenager can now help be a part of that. The Ceramic Cafe started the tradition of a gnome hunt last spring. They repurposed leftover clay into hundreds of handmade gnomes and had a treasure hunt at local
parks across KCMO and KCK. The cafe invited children to come to the parks and find a gnome. If found, the child could bring it to the cafe and paint it for free! It was such a success last spring that this year they have the goal of making 3,000 gnomes, and they would love your teen’s help. Your teen or tween can stop in The Ceramic Cafe on certain days and times and make gnomes out of clay for free if they donate the gnome to the project. It is a fun way for your child to use some creativity, as well as develop a spirit of community service. Plus, anything that keeps the hands busy and messy will keep the phones away, so it’s a win for the kids, parents, and community.
Top Golf Located in Overland Park, Top Golf offers year-round climate-controlled hitting bays for golfers of all skill levels. They also offer coaching for your child, birthday parties, and a delicious menu.
Top Golf is a great place for a family outing or a place to drop off your teenager with some friends to have a fun and active time.
Whiskers Cat Cafe “Welcome to Whiskers Cat Cafe, where you can get your coffee fix and your kitty fix in a comfortable, fun environment.” Located in KCMO, Whiskers Cat Cafe is a unique place to not only imbibe a decadent coffee drink, but also spend time connecting with some feline friends. Whiskers partners with KC Pet Project and has the mission to find a forever home for as many homeless cats as possible. Interacting with animals not only lowers stress levels, but also creates empathy and helps develop kindness in our children. The cafe has a room to visit with the cats, as well as a room that is cat-free if someone is allergic. (Reservations are required.)
Main Event Located in Olathe, Main Event is a wonderful venue that allows your teens and tweens to burn some energy so they stop wrestling on your furniture for at least a few hours! Laser tag, ropes courses, bowling, hundreds of video games, and a full service menu will keep your children busy and fed for an entire afternoon or evening.
Indoor Swimming KC has many community centers or health facilities with indoor pools. The community centers often have open swim times, and private health clubs offer a drop-in fee for nonmembers. Swimming burns a lot of energy and the hydrostatic pressure from the water calms the nervous system. Your children will have the opportunity to work out their teenage angst in the water and come home calmer, more peaceful, and ready for bed.
Proud to be providing board certified, compassionate pediatric dental care to KC and Johnson County since 2005.
Schedule an appointment at one of our four convenient locations today!
for more information or to visit our blog, visit us online at
www.kidsmilekc.com SIMPLYKCMAG.COM
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, o h W
PHOTO BY MORGAN MILLER
WHAT, WHERE
Meet Rachel Sexton
Who: Rachel Sexton, vice president of VPR Patient Outreach Program
What:
Rachel Sexton has been burning a trail for women in health care marketing for nearly 25 years. A 1998 cum laude graduate from the University of Missouri’s Journalism School, her first job was writing for VPR Creative Group in Kansas City. After a string of promotions, in 2010 Rachel co-founded VPR Patient Outreach Program, a division focused on using the voice of the patient to make a measurable difference in health outcomes. Sexton is always eager to roll up her sleeves for a community project as a past president of the Junior League of Kansas City, Missouri. Her attention to both corporate and civic needs has ushered in a string of accolades; she has been honored as one of KC Business Magazine’s “Rising Stars” and “Most Influential Women” and was named a “Forty under 40” by Ingram’s Magazine. Sexton is also a member of the Kansas City Business Journal’s 2013 classes of “Women Who Mean Business” and “Next Gen Leaders.” The oldest of five children growing
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up in Kansas City, Sexton is now the mother of her own five. She and her husband, Brian King, are parents to William (16), Grayson (14), Kitty (10), Bianca (5), and Shepard (3).
Where:
FAVORITE PLACE TO DINE Il Centro! Twenty years after my first visit, I’m still ordering the chicken tagliata, but all the bites I steal from Brian’s plate are equally amazing. FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A COCKTAIL OR HAPPY HOUR With five kids, I’m not picky about where to grab a drink, but the patio at Aixois always feels like a little vacation. FAVORITE PLACE FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY/STAYCATION We love a family weekend at The Raphael. Some of the kids have inherited my love of running, so Brian will drive us there, but a few of us jog the Trolley Trail home to work off a great Chaz brunch. FAVORITE PLACE TO HAVE A BUSINESS MEETING OFFSITE Some of our team’s best cre-
ative ideas come when we get off the beaten path. The Southmoreland on the Plaza is only a mile from our offices, but it feels like a world away when it’s time to bond and brainstorm. FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP While I often scour eBay or Poshmark for myself, I splurge for the little ones at Hiles Two, KidOh! and Lauren Alexandra. FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS IN KC The Sugared Shamrock makes the most insanely detailed cookies— we have ordered them in custom shapes from a Wendy’s frosty to a client’s logo. And the Little Teepee Glamping Company—they have managed to make slumber parties chic and easy for parents. FAVORITE KANSAS CITY ACTIVITY Weekly, I enjoy jogging Liberty Memorial while Kitty is at KC Ballet. Coming around the curve and taking in our skyline never gets old. Annually, part of the reason I wanted to move into our neighborhood is that it’s on the Brookside Snake Parade path!
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INFOCUS
DESTINATIONS LANDING IN SOUTHWEST JOHNSON COUNTY OPPORTUNITIES ARE ON THE RISE IN EDGERTON WRITTEN BY ALLISON GIBESON / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN
I
n the past, spending a weekend getaway in Edgerton was not typically something top-of-mind for many. That’s changing as development is gaining momentum in southwest Johnson County as the area continues to grow into a destination to eat, sleep, work, and play. Sites like Big Bull Creek Park and Milldale Farm, as well as businesses such as White Tail Run Winery, Lewis Indoor Athletics, and The Village Shop KC are just some of the opportunities for shopping, sports, recreation, and dining in Edgerton. James Oltman, president of Elevate Edgerton!, said historically there hasn’t been much of a selection for people looking to stay if they are visiting Edgerton, but that will be changing soon. He said the city recently ap-
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proved an agreement for a 40-acre development that will include a new hotel and conference center slated to be completed by 2025.
“There are a wealth of unique amenities our community provides to the county that a lot of people don’t realize.” “This will be a great addition to the community and not only provide travelers visiting Edgerton a place to stay, but also a lodging options for all the different events held at Milldale Farm,” Oltman says. Milldale Farm and its 8,672 square-
foot barn is frequently used as a wedding venue. Big Bull Creek Park has a disc golf course, youth campgrounds, a playground, trails, and shelters. It’s the largest park in Johnson County and includes more than 2,000 acres. Other recreational areas include Edgerton City Lake with its kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing options. Additionally, Manor Park was recently updated, and Glendell Acres Park will soon be renovated as well. White Tail Run Winery is family-owned, has won awards for their wine, and offers both a tasting room and curbside pickup. Other dining options include the recently renovated Full Draw Bar and Grill with its array of burgers, tacos, pizza, chicken fried steak, and the like. This past year Edgerton Frontier Days celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Every year this festival includes carnival rides, wood carving demonstrations, craft booths, food trucks, and live music.
ic training. Previously, local athletes didn’t have a place for indoor training, and would have needed to travel for such an opportunity.
For families living in Edgerton, schools, parks, and athletic and employment opportunities have been a continued focus. In terms of education, Edgerton Elementary School has received the “Challenge Award,” “Standards of Excellence Award,” and the “Governor’s Achievement Award.”
“I wanted to provide a place for the community—especially the youth—to be able to practice and get better at baseball, softball, or whatever they are working on,” Lewis says.
Josh Lewis opened Lewis Indoor Athletics about a year ago and offers 8,000 square feet for indoor athlet-
When it comes to job possibilities, people used to only think of Logistics Park KC when considering Edgerton. While this brought great industrial growth to town, the options are expanding. Oltman says since 2013 the city has seen the creation of about 4,800 jobs in the community, and most employers that are hiring are offering good wages, hiring bonuses, and even benefits packages that include education incentives for employees who want to get their college degree at no cost. Elevate Edgerton! has played a significant role in helping recruit this development to the city. This public-private partnership has three main priorities: commercial and retail business recruitment, housing development recruit-
ment, and workforce development, explains Oltman. While they receive a small amount of funding from the city, they are a separate entity, and most of their funding comes from the private business community. “We are innovative and creative, and we think outside the box,” Oltman says. “We don’t box ourselves into the traditional norms of what economic development has been in the past. The longterm fit and compatibility weighs very heavily on projects, even if it means we don’t see as much development in the short-term.” Oltman says development has built on itself over time. The city recently welcomed its first truck stop travel center, and not long after that the city was able to secure the development agreement for another truck stop in addition the hotel and conference center. “There are a wealth of unique amenities our community provides to the county that a lot of people don’t realize,” Oltman says. “If you haven’t been to Edgerton, it’s time to explore.”
ElevateEdgerton! • 30750 West 193rd Street, Edgerton, KS • 913.882.2500 • elevateedgerton.com
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L ocal
GOOD EATS
Chef Carl Thorne-Thomsen’s award-winning restaurant offers creative American cuisine, craft cocktails, and fine wines. Enjoy patio, bar, or dining room seating at Story. storykc.com. Featured menu items include: Alaskan halibut, beef short ribs, lobster tagliatelle, soft shell crabs, and more. Story also offers monthly wine dinners, a fried chicken special on Wednesday nights, and a burger special on Thursday nights. Visit storykc.com to learn more.
3931 W. 69th Terr., Prairie Village, KS • 913.236.9955 info@storykc.com • storykc.com
Austins Bar & Grill has been serving Southern Johnson County for over 34 years. Our family-owned establishments offer a fun sports bar environment to watch all the games. Fresh quality food is provided with great daily food and drink specials. Enjoy our happy hour menu 3-6 p.m. Monday-Friday!
SOUTH OLATHE - 2103 E. 151st St. • 913.829.2106 NORTH OLATHE - 11180 S. Lone Elm Rd. • 913.322.2337 GARDNER - 245 Moonlight Rd. • 913.856.6965 austinsbarandgrill.com
Serving organic, whole food eats and treats for KC’s ever-growing health food scene, Unbakery Juicery prides itself in its gluten free menu. Unbakery is open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Saturday serving breakfast and lunch options from Billie’s Grocery in midtown and organic juices served in glass bottles. Unbakery offers an easy, convenient drive-thru option for those days you’re in a hurry or have a car full of crazy kids. (Buy them a protein ball, you’ll thank us!) With a full line of wellness shots and functional herbal teas from Apothe, the team at Unbakery helps you maintain optimal health. Mention SIMPLYkc Magazine and receive 10 percent off a juicer.
634 E. 63rd St., KCMO • 816.237.1128 unbakeryandjuicerykc.com
Our food is simple, elegant, and honest. The menu is inspired by a combination of American, Greek, French, and Italian cuisines. Our commitment to freshness and quality is first and foremost, as we use the season’s best offerings and buy from local farmers and purveyors whenever possible. The service team at YaYa’s consistently aims to provide the best service and complete guest satisfaction. We’re proud to be able to meet each special request of our guests, whether it’s food, beverage, or a special setting.
7021 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.345.1111 yayaskc.com
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Burnt End BBQ is a fast casual BBQ restaurant located in Overland Park. They are the tastiest of the tasty! Come in hungry and walk out satisfied. If you can’t make it in, don’t worry! They deliver and cater. Burnt End BBQ can cater any event from a simple office lunch to an old-fashioned BBQ wedding. Come in and try the best BBQ in town!
11831 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS • 913.451.8888 burntendbbqkc.com
FULL-MEAL SALADS delivered to your doorstep every week!
Delicious Authentic Thai Food Our menu features our customerfavorite Thai Roasted Duck, Stir Fry, Curry, Phad Thai & more!
Tuk Tuk Thai is a local, Family Owned Business
DINE IN, CARRY OUT, DELIVERY Gift Cards Available Located off 135th & 69 Hwy in Overland Park Not Far from BV Recreation Sports Complex
8351 W. 135th St. - 913.291.0106 tuktukthaikc.com
Eat HEALTHY meals daily without ANY shopping, prep or clean up!
FIVE delicious meals every Sunday customized to your preferences.
Our salads are vegetarian and made using fresh, non-GMO ingredients.
S
! w o N p U n ig
salads2yourdoorkc.com @salads2yourdoorkc SIMPLYKCMAG.COM
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BE WELL
ADVENTHEALTH BRINGS HEALTH CARE CLOSER TO HOME FOR SOUTH OVERLAND PARK FAMILIES WRITTEN BY JACKIE WOODS / PHOTO BY BLUE COFFEE PICTURES
If you’ve driven through south Overland Park lately, you’ve probably noticed the growing number of subdivisions. Along with more residents come new schools and businesses to build a booming economy and strong community. One of the more recent additions to
community. The addition of a new
community has come to expect from
the area is AdventHealth South Over-
health care facility nestled among
AdventHealth.”
land Park, located at 165th and An-
neighborhoods and local business-
tioch in the BluHawk Development.
es gives residents new opportunities
Built in 2017, the facility expanded in
for employment and easy access to
October 2021 into a 193,000-square-
health care close to home in a more
foot inpatient hospital. Licensed for
intimate setting.
85 beds, the hospital opened with 38 beds and is the first full-service hospital built in the Kansas City metro area
“I think the size of AdventHealth South Overland Park is what makes
in the past 15 years.
it unique,” says Monica Powers, chief
Health care resources are an inte-
included in a community hospital
gral part of building a supportive
along with the high-quality care the
nursing officer. “We have everything
The facility was designed with a focus on whole-person care, and team members continually embrace the organization’s mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ. “With the new hospital, we have a better opportunity to extend our healing mission to southern Johnson County,” says Ashley McDonald, administrative director of Operations and Business Development. “Our continued on page 26
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Now, more than ever, we are STRONGER TOGETHER. We know that this is a season of tough choices. We are here for you. Whether it’s your annual mammogram, an ultrasound, MRI or bone density, make this your EASY decision. Call 913-344-9989, or visit us online,
dic-KC.com
Centered on you.
to schedule today.
fresh . distinctive . fashion forward . editorial style photography Personal Branding . High School Seniors . Teens . Commercial Headshots . Modeling Headshots Exclusive Style Closet with Latest Fashions . Wardrobe Styling Consultations Nationally Published + Award Winning Photographer
Robin Addleman 816.665.6505 westelmphotography.com SIMPLYKCMAG.COM
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BE WELL CONT.
faith-based
matched
hiring our first teams to provide
“My vision is that we are seen as the
with our medical expertise al-
approach
care to this community—has been
community’s destination for health
lows us to care for our patients
rewarding,” says Powers. “I’ll nev-
care services and a true partner
in a unique way—mind, body, and
er forget the day we opened our
when it comes to keeping fami-
spirit.”
doors to our first patients and had
lies well,” says McDonald. “With so
the wonderful opportunity to take
much growth planned for the area,
this beautiful building and turn it
our goal is to continue expanding
into a place of healing.”
services in ways that best meet the
The new expanded area of the hospital features a Birth Center with a Level II NICU, a surgery depart-
Step inside and you will quick-
and a post-anesthesia care unit, an
ly see what Powers means about
intensive care unit, 24 medical/sur-
the healing environment. From the
gical rooms, a GI/endoscopy de-
emergency room and waiting areas
Learn more about AdventHealth
partment, and an on-site pharma-
to the new Birth Center and chapel,
South Overland Park by visiting
cy. These resources are in addition
the spaces are serene with a crisp,
AdventHealthKC.com/SouthOP.
to those already on campus such
modern design. Glass lines the
as the 24/7 emergency room, im-
walls and words of encouragement
aging, neurosurgery, primary care,
are displayed near the second floor
physical therapy, and the Whole
balcony from the lower level. The
Health Institute, to name a few.
building also features a unique con-
Currently, there are 160 team members
working
at
AdventHealth
South Overland Park, and they are still hiring. Ultimately, 200 are
cept called a CREATION art walk where visitors can view art pieces throughout the hospital that relate to God’s seven days of creation.
expected to be employed by the
The beauty of the facility is appar-
end of 2021. Powers and McDonald
ent, but just as important is the
have been instrumental in the de-
state-of-the-art technology that
velopment of the hospital and hir-
brings a high level of care not only
ing the teams that care for patients
to those living nearby, but also to
and their families.
residents of surrounding counties
“The entire process—from designing and building the facility to
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demands of those we serve—al-
ment with three operating rooms
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where quality health care may be less accessible.
ways with whole person health at the core.”
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Myofascial Release Therapy is the foundation of our treatment approach. We offer a variety of therapeutic modalities.
These include: Graston Technique • Cupping • Cranial Sacral • Scar Release
therapist spotlight Stephanie Augello “I learned to take even more time inbetween techniques and really feel deeper. The intra-oral techniques will be beneficial in treating my clients. I really feel like everybody can benefit from what was taught in MFR II.”
Last month, our intermediate therapists completed John F. Barnes’s course for MFR II. The seminars are hands-on and build upon one another to provide a comprehensive approach for the treatment of pain and dysfunction. Continuing education allows our therapists to stay sharp in their techniques and learn new modalities of treatment in order to better help their clients. Stephanie & Jeff spent this seminar honing their skills in Intra-Oral techniques, Lumbo-Sacral, Sacro-Iliac, Psoas Complex, Lower & Upper Extremeties, the Cervical, Hyoid & Thorax, as well as the Fascial Cranium & Dural System.
“John taugh many techniques, though I was particularly interested in learning intra-oral work to treat those with TMJ. At the end we reviewed Rebounding, which I like doing with clients at the end of a session.”
Contact us today:
Jeff Dailly Give the gift that keeps on giving!
913-343-9042
Gift Cards available
MidwestMyofascialRelease.com
Overland Park Location Plaza Location -
7270 W. 98th Terr., #220, Overland Park, KS
1421 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO
We are adhering to COVID-19 with the following increased sanitizing procedures: • Your car is the new waiting room. • We will all be wearing face masks. • We will be performing health screenings. • We have added Medify H-13 air cleaners. • We have enhanced sanitizing procedures. More details are available on our website.
FASHION
Fresh AND BOLD I N HOLIDAY CASUAL
THE PLAID ELEPHANT 7951 W. 160th St., Ste. 530 Overland Park, KS theplaidelephantshop.com
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The holidays
are timeless. A warm home, cool outdoor air, and the color green (be on the lookout for green this season). Go from weekend casual to holiday wear with these 80s pieces that create a timeless look. Fresh and bold will be popping up as this season’s trends with puff sleeves and midi dresses. Mix and match old with new to create a whole new style of your own. And go from basic to slaying it with accessories!
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Photography / Samantha Levi Models / Tiffany Meeks & Jennifer Nagaoka with Voices & Hair / Jen Kelly, Frankie’s Salon & Spa Makeup / Mae Monroe Shot on Locations / Phare & Billie’s Grocery
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BEAUTY
READY YOUR SKIN FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH THESE SKINCARE TIPS
WRITTEN BY SOPHIE OSWALD
W
ith winter comes cold weather. The humidity drops and the air gets drier. During this time people tend to experience dry, red, and flaky skin. Chapped lips are common too. If you have a skin condition such as eczema or acne, these can get even worse during the frigid months of winter. There is no reason to let your skin become dry, itchy, and painful. With the right knowledge you can keep your complexion looking great this winter! “Most people experience a difference in their skin a few times a year due to the weather. Mostly, because they’re not protecting it appropriately. We need hydration all year, but the level of moisture can vary from cold to warm weather,” explains Nikki Peace-Lindsey, aesthe-
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tician and laser technician at Mia Bella Donna Medspa. You don’t need to ditch the products you know and love, but a few changes are likely in order. The substitutions needed when it comes to products will differ from person to person. Some people have oily skin, in which case the dry air may not impact their skin as severely. Everyone’s skin can dry out in the winter, though, so just pay attention to your body and what it needs. Don’t forget your SPF. Plenty of people forget the sunscreen in the winter, but SPF is still important. There is still enough UVA out there to age the skin. “Protection from the harshness of winter and chapping comes from wearing a more moisturizing sunscreen, more emollient creams, and adjusting the formula of retinoids being used,” Peace-Lindsey explains.
Try using products that give your skin the moisture it needs. You may want to switch your gel or foam cleanser to a cream or oil-based cleanser. While foam cleansers may be enjoyable to use during other times of the year, they can be harsh on the skin. They tend to strip the skin and make it dry, which doesn’t pair well with the additional dryness that comes with winter. If you wash your face two or more times a day, consider doing it less often this time of year. Another change you may want to make is switching from a lightweight moisturizer to something thicker. Applying this to the skin when you get out of the shower can be even more beneficial. Moisturizing your skin when it is damp rather than when there isn’t any water left lingering on the surface of your body helps the product work better.
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Jewelry as unique as you are.
Incorporating a good exfoliator into your routine will help when it comes to removing dead skin cells. Don’t be harsh on your skin by exfoliating more than is necessary. While it may feel like you’re caring for your skin, this will likely lead to more dryness and make you uncomfortable. Gently exfoliating once or twice a week can be a great addition to your routine. Winter can also be a time to pursue any procedures or treatments you’ve been considering. “Having facial treatments done consistently by someone making sure that the proper home care is working for you is the best defense. Also, I treat the eyes and lips during all facials,” Peace-Lindsey says. “We usually focus on treating any sun damage or more in-depth treatments during the winter,” she adds. It is easier to remember to hydrate during the summer, but don’t underestimate the power of water intake in the colder months too. Consuming plenty of water is vital when it comes to having beautiful, hydrated skin. This is a good time to purchase a humidifier. While you’re sitting in the comfort of your home soaking up the indoor heating, you might be harming your skin. Humidifiers help you retain moisture, improve the hydration levels of your skin, help with cracked lips, and more. As the weather changes, so should your skincare routine. A professional will be able to assess your skin and inform you of any specific changes that might improve its look and feel. Embrace change this season for great looking skin.
13328 METCALF AVE. // OVERLAND PARK TUES-FRI 11AM-6PM // SAT 11AM-5PM 913-789-8858 // LIKE US ON FACEBOOK SIMPLYKCMAG.COM
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DISH
NOVEL KC
OFFERS A DELECTABLY UNIQUE CULINARY EXPERIENCE WRITTEN BY JUDY GOPPERT
Crown Center, he moved to New York City and worked his way through some of the best restaurants there, ending his tenure in NYC as a sous chef for David Chang at Momofuku Ma Peche. In 2013 Novel opened on the city’s West Side in an old Victorian house. They soon outgrew the dilapidated structure, and in 2018 moved into their new space in the Arts District.
Why this locale and food choice? I’d always wanted to be
in the dynamic Crossroads neighborhood because I feel like it has the raw, natural, industrial vibe that complements the idea of Novel. The style of food we serve is always evolving and changing. It’s based on products that are in season and available from the local farms and producers we pride ourselves on working with. It’s inspired by travel and constantly learning and pushing to explore new flavor combinations, and experimenting with new and old techniques.
What was the inspiration for your name? New AmerCHEF RYAN BRAZEAL & PASTRY CHEF JESSICA ARMSTRONG PHOTO COURTESY OF NOVEL KC
Novel KC is now open in a new vibrant, spacious locale in the East Crossroads Arts District of Kansas City, Missouri. The dining room features a 50-footlong tile mosaic across from an open kitchen. The inviting full-service granite bar seats up to 18 guests, with views of the outdoor patio planted with native trees and grasses. Chef Ryan Brazeal and pastry chef Jessica Armstrong utilize locally sourced ingredients and contemporary techniques. Chef Brazeal graduated from the culinary program at JCCC in 2004. After 3-1/2 years at the Hyatt Regency
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ican cuisine is a catchall phrase to describe restaurants like ours, but in its original sense it’s not necessarily appropriate for our style of cuisine. Throughout history the French have applied the label of nouvelle cuisine several times when there was a shift in the culinary paradigm. We like to describe our food as Novel American Cuisine because we borrow so much from other cuisines and meld them with our sensibilities to create something truly novel, something new and never done before.
What do you do to connect yourself to the community and neighborhood? Since relocating to the Arts District, we have
worked with acclaimed artist Peregrine Honig to create a constantly evolving space aesthetically centered around art. From the tile mosaic that runs the length of the dining room to the color scheme and interactive mural on the patio, everything is carefully considered to complement and enhance your experience at Novel and cement the idea of this neighborhood as the cultural hub of the city.
How are you dealing with the pandemic? We
have practiced all safety measures required by local government and then some. We set up a system so you can order food on our website for carryout, eliminated some of our tables for greater social distancing, and opened our patio for the first time so people who don’t want to come inside can still have a Novel experience.
What are some favorite dishes? Our seared diver scal-
lops with tamarind and bone marrow and our fried cauliflower with housemade Caesar dressing and capers are our two top sellers for a reason. Our chilled corn soup in the summertime and duroc pork chop with spicy pork belly have practically achieved cult status by now. Our homemade pasta program features some real crowd-pleasers, introducing customers to ingredients they might not have encountered before. For example, our duck neck and foie gras agnolotti and our tagliatelle with white Bolognese and sweetbreads. Our signature dessert? Pistachio cream pie with strawberry whipped cream.
Novel KC
1927 McGee St., Kansas City, MO 816.221.0785 • novelkc.com
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Showroom 127th & Metcalf AreaRugDimensions.com - 913.327.8784
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BECAUSE I SAID SO...
A 40-YEAR-OLD’S SPEECH WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTO BY JAMI BOWMAN
I’m an optimist. Out of 14,610 days, most days were good. Yet, some days were not good. They were terrible, really. Some were even what nightmares are made of.
14,610 days doesn’t sound like an important milestone. 1,000 days sounds important. Or maybe 10,000 days. But living for four decades is a milestone, and there should be a speech with that. Words from a woman, aged 40 years, on November 27, 2021.
Day 5,042 sucked. A cute boy I had a crush on my freshman year of high school gave me his number in class. I got home and called him—it was a suicide hotline number. Day 8,944 and day 10,023 were life-changing days for me. But this article isn’t about becoming a parent. Day 12,955 was horrible. So was day 13,351. Those were the days I held my nephew and my niece in my arms. It’s strange how two perfectly stillborn angels showed up in my arms on the days that nightmares are made of. Day 13,883 was exhilarating. I met a man who would teach me it’s possible to find love again. A man that keeps a squeegee in his shower and will read a book in bed when I want to read a book in bed. It’s impossible to see the change in the mirror every day. If you look at a photograph of me a decade ago, you’ll see it. If you look at me two decades ago, you’ll really see it. Change. I have wrinkles around my eyes when I laugh now. I have light sunspots on my face. My skin isn’t as tight as it used to be. I also have these weird lines down my chest that I swear appear when you raise teenagers.
My personality changed in 14,610 days. My feelings on marriage, kids, friends, work, good music, and the definition of a perfect night changed. I didn’t know that getting married at 22 and having a baby at 24 was young. Day 8,268 was a good day, but I didn’t know 6,570 days later that we would backtrack the “I do” decision at the altar. It was a mutual decision, but one that would forever change our paths. The beauty of 40 years is I know myself more than anyone else. I know what I like on my sandwich—jalapeños, so many jalapeños. I can read both my daughters’ body languages when they don’t speak to me. I can see them embracing their hard-headedness so they can be assertive women some day well past 14,610 days. I know to say “no” more often than I say “yes.” I know I am calmed by writing down my words, it lets out the very loud voice in my head. There happens to be an audience reading that voice now. I know there is value to the words I write, the words I speak, and the words I spew at the TV when the Chiefs lose (it’s still September as I write this). I know the boy—fine, 40-year-old man—who gave me the suicide hotline number is regretting that decision. Good. At 40 years old, I’ve lived through mostly good days. 14,610 days.
Julie Burton is an Overland Park mom, writer, K-State lover, and bacon-hater. She is a blogger and contributing author to the humor book, But Did You Die?: Setting the Parenting Bar Low. Burton’s also been named one of the Today Show’s “funniest parents.” And yes, she really does hate bacon. Please don’t drop her as a friend. Follow Julie at: julieburton.blog • facebook.com/julieburtonwriter • twitter.com/ksujulie • instagram.com/ksujulie
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7 THINGS
7
1
THANKSGIVING DISHES TO TRY THIS YEAR FROM OUR SIMPLYKC TEAM
COMPILED BY SOPHIE OSWALD
It’s a Simple Salad Thinly slice three heads of romaine lettuce Dice two yellow peppers Chop five stalks of celery Add one small bag of dried cranberries Add one small bag of slivered almonds One small container of fresh parmesan cheese Toss in sweet Italian vinaigrette dressing Tammy Cunningham TLCMarketingConsultants.com
2 Ever-ready Cheese Log
My grandma used to make a special cheese log for holidays and events. My mom has since carried on the tradition and there is always a cheese log at our Thanksgiving celebrations.
Ingredients: 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese, grated 1-2 teaspoons minced onion 3 tablespoons minced green pepper 3 chopped stuffed olives 2 tablespoons chopped pickles 1 tablespoon chopped pimento 1/2 cup crushed saltines 1/4 cup mayonnaise
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Directions: Combine cheese and
the rest of the ingredients. Form into a long roll and wrap in wax paper. Refrigerate until firm. Serve on a tray surrounded by crackers and olives. Guests slice as they eat. Note: I am now vegan and with a few swaps I can still enjoy a cheese log of my own. If you’re on the same boat, opt for dairy-free cheddar and vegan mayonnaise. Sophie Oswald
3 Thanksgiving Birthday:
You know, this is going to sound weird. But that’s what happens during Thanksgiving—the weirdness comes out in families. My birthday is November 27. If my birthday doesn’t fall on Thanksgiving, it’s within a week. If it’s on the day, there is no birthday dinner choice. Turkey and mashed potatoes. That’s it. But when it comes to dessert—my mom and dad were good about not serving pumpkin pie with birthday candles. It was Baskin’ Robbins mint chocolate chip ice cream cake. Every year, I’m sure to have my birthday cake and eat it too. Julie Burton
Sweet 4 Candied Potatoes: For me, Thanksgiving is definitely “the holiday” that is the epitome of tradition. Like many families,
ours was very predictable when it came to the Thanksgiving dinner menu. We always celebrated with a roasted turkey—never a ham— and all the traditional side dishes and desserts. One of my father’s favorite side dishes—and he took complete ownership of its preparation— was candied sweet potatoes. I suspect because it was more than mashed potatoes … richer in flavor and color, and special. The sweet potatoes were peeled, cut into thick slices or quarters, topped with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and baked in the oven until tender. Sometimes Dad included chopped pecans or pecan halves, sometimes topped with marshmallows. Whether or not we are together on Thanksgiving, candied sweet potatoes need their place at the table, it’s the dish I associate most with my dad. Gina Reardon: Former owner of Catering by Design, Gina Reardon is a monthly contributor to SIMPLYkc Magazine, sharing a short blog and seasonal recipes for the Good Taste column, and is also the founder of the local chapter of No Kid Hungry.
5 Grandmother’s Spinach Casserole: A dish that reminds me of happy family times around the table is the spinach casserole my grandmother made. Hers was the very best, and we all loved it so much
that now I make it for my own family on Thanksgiving. I even have the casserole dish she cooked hers in. It is the perfect green, cheesy addition to turkey and dressing. I hope you and your family make it a part of your tradition!
State University and is a freelance writer for a wide variety of magazines. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life and our area.
6 Chocolate Pecan Pie
3 eggs
not only makes our home smell wonderful, it signals to everyone that it’s Thanksgiving. It’s always a treat, and I keep it that way by only baking it for the holiday!
1/4 teaspoon salt
Ingredients:
12-ounce carton cottage cheese
1 package (8 squares) baker’s sweet baking chocolate
Spinach Casserole Ingredients: 1 box frozen, chopped spinach
1/2 package gold foil Kraft sharp cheddar cheese
1 pie crust
1 package Old English cheese slices (reserve some slices to decorate top of casserole)
2 tablespoons butter/margarine
Directions: Cube cheeses. Mix all in-
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
gredients together with a fork and put in a non-stick casserole dish. Top with reserved cheese slices. Cover with foil for the first half of baking and remove foil to brown. Bake at 350 degrees until bubbly all the way through, approximately 35-45 minutes.
Tips: If you are going to double,
leave out 1 egg and take off some of the cottage cheese liquid. Always be sure to get as much water as possible off the spinach by thawing then soaking up liquid with paper towels in the sink. Try to use a larger baking dish that is not too deep or it won’t cook through and will spill over into the oven. I set the baking dish on a cookie sheet in the oven just in case. Judy Goppert: Writing is a way of life for Judy Goppert, who lives in Lee’s Summit. She has a writing degree from Missouri
3 eggs 1 cup corn syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla 1-1/2 cups pecan halves
1 cup boiling water 3/4 cup sugar 1 cup ice water 2 eggs, well beaten 1 teaspoon salt 3 (¼ ounce) packages of active dry yeast (or 1-2 ounces cake yeast) 6-7 cups flour
Directions: Combine 1 cup boiling
water and 3/4 cup shortening in a large mixing bowl. Set aside and cool. In another bowl, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 1 cup ice water, 2 eggs well-beaten, 1 teasoon salt, 3 packets of dry yeast (or 1-2-ounce cube cake yeast). Set aside and allow to rise for 2 hours. Add sugar/yeast mixture to the water/shortening mixture. When cooled, add 6 or more cups of flour, mix, let stand covered in the refrigerator. The dough will be sticky but not too wet.
Directions: Coarsely chop 4 choc-
olate squares and set aside. Microwave remaining chocolate and butter until melted. Brush bottom of pie crust with egg. Stir sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla into chocolate mixture until blended. Stir in pecans and pour into pie crust. Bake at 350 degrees for 55 minutes. Let cool before serving. Enjoy!
Roll out with flour to about 1/4-inch height. Cut into long triangles and form to look like crescent rolls. Place on cookie sheets and cover with a tea towel. Allow to rise in a warm place for an hour. When rolls are done, place them on a baking rack to cool. Brush tops with melted butter (optional). Serve immediately, or freeze until needed.
Tiffany Killoren
Bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes.
7 Ice-Box Dinner Rolls
Julie Faerman, Art Director for SIMPLYkc Magazine and owner of Whoo Design in Boulder, CO
Ingredients:
3/4 cup shortening
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r a e D
KACIE ALONE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Last year the extended family on my side and my husband’s side decided not to celebrate the holidays together due to the pandemic. After staying home last year, we loved the simplicity of the holidays with just us and the kids. We would really like to do it again this year. Traveling between the two families (my husband’s family is in Iowa and mine is in KC) is stressful. It’s hard on our young kids. It’s also expensive spending money on a hotel and fuel. How do we tell the families we want to stay home again?
Hold on, I have a song for you: “Oh there’s no place like home for the holidays.” Okay, so maybe the song wasn’t written about a pandemic keeping everyone literally at home. But there is some truth to staying home for the holidays. It is simple, cheaper, and it allows you to make your own family traditions. I haven’t done a poll, but I’m guessing the holidays to most people are more stressful than not. My advice? Make your own “holidays.” The cost of travel, the risk of getting sick, driving in the snow, and trying to schedule the family’s schedule around a sleepy toddler is not very “jingle bell-y.” Tell the family you would love to see them over Christmas, but it would be much easier to make it happen during the summer months. Or spring. There’s no law that says you must spend time with the extended family. It’s okay. You can be alone for the holidays.
If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to contact@simplykcmag.com.
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GOOD TASTES
THE JOY OF FAMILY TRADITIONS WRITTEN BY GINA REARDON / PHOTO BY MELANIE MCDOWELL
When I was asked about my family’s Thanksgiving traditions recently, I thought a lot about what it is that makes the holiday so special. Like most, I look forward to being all together in one place, enjoying lively conversation and comforting foods that have stood the test of time, sometimes passed down generation to generation, year after year.
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Our family is large, and some years it is not unusual to have as many as 40 people at the party, dividing the responsibilities of what is always a remarkable meal. We may have as many as three turkeys, and no matter whose house it is, my husband is always called upon to make the gravy. There’s a divided camp when it comes to stuffing the turkey, and it’s one of those dishes—along with the green bean casserole—that you are not allowed to mess with! We can count on Aunt Joann’s sweet potatoes, and Aunt Jane’s homemade dinner rolls. I am usually tasked to bake a few pies and often volunteer to make a salad or a vegetable side dish so my chef’s eye will be satisfied by ensuring there is more color on the plate.
One of my sisters-in-law, a physician, once shared the average amount of calories consumed at the Thanksgiving table, a staggering 3,000-4,500, so the importance of adding healthy vegetables or a gorgeous salad became critical for me. This year I will make this salad not just for Thanksgiving, but more often—because it has all the things I love: beautiful textured greens, dried cranberries, ruby poached pears, and crunchy nuts, with an optional sprinkling of Roquefort or Gorgonzola cheese (or a milder goat cheese for the faint of heart). Wishing you a meaningful and memorable Thanksgiving with everyone you love!
Ruby Poached Pear and Arugula Salad with Red Wine and Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette SERVES 8
Ingredients
Preparation
Poached Pears
Salad
2 cups dry red wine
12 cups mixed greens and arugula, rinsed, spun dry and well chilled
1/2 cup port
1/2 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
2 whole cloves 1/2 cup sugar 4 fresh pears (Bartlett or Anjou) peeled, cored, and halved* Roasted Garlic Dressing 3 tablespoons raspberry vinegar 1 small shallot 1 medium clove roasted garlic 9 tablespoons walnut oil 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Garnish 1/2 cup glazed pecans, toasted hazelnuts, or raw pistachios 4 ounces Gorgonzola or Roquefort cheese (or Chevre, if preferred) Poached Pears: Combine wine, port, cloves and sugar in a medium saute pan or skillet. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and add pears (cut side down). Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until tender. Remove pears, reserving liquid, and set aside. Pour off all but 1-1/2 cups of the poaching liquid and reduce it to 3 tablespoons. Transfer liquid to a blender or food processor. Roasted Garlic Dressing: Add vinegar, shallot, and garlic to reduced liquid. Blend until smooth. With the machine running, add oils in a very thin and steady stream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Place salad greens in a large bowl. Add some of the dressing and toss to coat lightly. Divide among plates and sprinkle with glazed pecans, toasted hazelnuts or pistachios and dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds. Place pear halves on a cutting board and slice lengthwise into 1/3-inch-thick slices, leaving intake at the narrow end of the pear half. Fan pear slices on top of the salad. Sprinkle with cheese.
Gina Reardon, former owner of Catering by Design and culinary philanthropist, leads the KC team for No Kid Hungry, culinary professionals and community members focused on supporting Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign. Funds raised help connect the nation’s 16 million low-income children with more school breakfast, lunch, and summer meals.
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A Not-So-Ordinary Book Discussion
THANKFUL, GRATEFUL, BLESSED
THE BEST JOURNEYS ARE TRAVELED WITHIN WRITTEN BY TIFFANY KILLOREN
We all need to lose ourselves in fictional tales sometimes, connecting with characters who we understand are not real facing challenges that we know are creatively derived from the author. Some people read only fiction, while others refuse to spend their time reading something that isn’t based in real life. I do both, and the below true life-inspired stories hold a special place in my mind and heart’s library for the strength they reveal and the messages we can all learn from them. As we approach a time of year that reminds us of our many blessings, these inspiring reads will make you want to be a better person and appreciate the little things in life.
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Wild
Cheryl Strayed, 2012 Faced with personal heartbreak and feeling lost in her life, Strayed decided to embark on a solo journey along the Pacific Crest Trail that most of us wouldn’t have been brave enough to imagine, much less actually begin. This book is a difficult walk in her shoes (or rather, boots). You feel the pain in her feet. You feel the thirst. You feel the sun. And, at times, you feel the loneliness. This is an inspirational read that makes you feel physically, emotionally, and spiritually uncomfortable enough to allow for inner growth in all the right ways.
Into the Wild John Krakauer, 1997
The Glass Castle Jeannette Walls, 2005
Our life journeys are largely determined by the families and lives we’re born into. This palpable truth is made all the more clear in this personal account of the author’s challenging childhood and an inner strength that she discovered along the way. Not only do you walk away from this read feeling appreciative of your own life, but hopefully a little more willing to accept people’s journeys that look quite different from your own.
Oh, did I have mixed feelings about this one. As a mother, this tale about a young man— Chris McCandless—leaving the world behind to find himself in the wild and paying the ultimate price was heartbreaking for all involved. I then read his sister’s book, The Wild Truth, which provided necessary context to McCandless’s seemingly impulsive choices and explained the basis for decisions that I struggled to understand. The heartbreak was still there, but I could appreciate the beauty of his journey and simply hoped that, at the end of his days, he found what he was looking for.
Unbroken
Laura Hillenbrand, 2014 A gut-wrenching tale of survival, I simply couldn’t imagine one person being dealt this much trauma, grief, and challenge in one lifetime. Louis Zamperini’s real life was full of more twists and turns than a best-selling novel and, although the movie adaption was impressive, the screen version simply couldn’t do justice to the written story, one that stays with you long after the last page is read. Although each obstacle he faced would have killed most people, Zamperini found a strength from within to overcome them all. Absolutely inspiring!
Tiffany Killorenis a local author and lover of the written word. Her novel, GOOD WILL, was released in 2020 and she is always thinking of new stories to tell. Follow her at @readandthreads on Instagram for book and life musings as she tries to balance career, family and her passion for writing one step - or word - at a time. PHOTO BY MOLLY KUPLEN
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FURNITURE 48
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APP OF THE MONTH
CONNECT WITH YOUR LOVED ONES THROUGH MARCO POLO
The gist: Staying in touch with others can be difficult. During the pandemic many people were unable to meet up with those whom they love most. Maybe you or someone you know has moved to another state or country. Sometimes we simply get busy. No matter the distance or the reason for it, Marco Polo is a great tool for keeping up with friends, family, coworkers, and others.
With this app you can have a conversation in real time, but you can also record and send videos out for the recipient to open and respond to when they’re available. Videos are stored in the conver-
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sation so you never have to worry about forgetting what was said. You can always go back and watch them again. People of all ages can navigate Marco Polo, regardless of how comfortable they are with technology. It can be faster too. Sit down and cover everything you need to in a quick video rather than spending your time typing long messages. It is refreshing to find an app that makes communicating with those you know more convenient and personal.
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Moving women’s health care forward to help you stay well at any stage. For nearly 60 years, Kansas City women have trusted AdventHealth for exceptional women's care. We deliver the most babies in Kansas City and provide mothers with the safest care, including an advanced level three NICU to support even the smallest bundle of joy. We’re collaborating with the MD Anderson Cancer Network®, a program of MD Anderson Cancer Center, to turn cancer research into recovery. And our experts are pioneering cardiac procedures with smart devices to get to the heart of health.
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