Fight Back ON HIGH-RISK DIAGNOSES
Blazing
HEAT, BLAZERS & PANT SUITS
TIME TO INVEST
MAY ‘22 | Vol. 12 No. 1
IN MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT
7 THINGS
WAYS TO MAKE MOTHER’S DAY MEANINGFUL
INFOCUS
CREATIVITY BUILT FROM SCRATCH WITH CHEF JOSHUA WALTERS
WELLNESS
TAKING A DEEP DIVE INTO ADHD TREATMENT
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CONTENTS
AROUND TOWN 12
48
A LOCAL BUSINESS PROVIDES A MULTI-GENERATION PASSION FOR PLANTS
INFOCUS 14
PERSONALIZED SKINCARE AND BOUTIQUE OPTIONS
BE WELL 16
FIGHTING A MEDICAL DOUBLE WHAMMY
LOCAL GOOD EATS 20 BEAUTY 22
THESE TIPS AND TRICKS WILL HELP YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MAKEUP LOOK
INFOCUS 24
INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH
FASHION 26
SPRING BOLDS & BRIGHTS
26 36
FINANCE 30
HOW DO YOU VACATION ON A BUDGET?
7 THINGS 32
SEVEN WAYS TO CELEBRATE MOM
APP 33
ARE YOU A LINK LOVER?
DEAR KACIE 34 DON’T YELL AT ME!
PARENTING 36
SPRING INTO SWIMMING THIS MAY
INFOCUS 38
SCRATCH GOURMET EXPRESS IS READY TO SERVE YOU
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WELLNESS 40
40
LIVING WITH ADHD: PART 2
INFOCUS 42
DESTINATIONS LANDING IN SOUTHWEST JOHNSON COUNTY
BOOKISH 44
SO ... WHAT ARE YOU READING?
DISH 46
CHEF CARL THORNE-THOMSEN
GOOD TASTES 48
I’LL SEE YOUR MIMOSA AND RAISE YOU ONE SCONE!
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BECAUSE I SAID SO 49 SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Custom designs for every occasion! Shop online for a delivery today. ✹ Located in Park Place 5230 W. 116th Pl. Leawood, KS 66211 913·685·1188
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! Ahhh, May. We finally made it! This month is one of my favorites because we celebrate graduations, Mother’s Day, weddings, school being out, and ... the pools opening. As a mom, I do appreciate the one day of the year when I can kick up my heels, relax, and leave the laundry-folding and other chores to my family. Even though Mother’s Day is meant for relaxing, I prefer to spend the day with my kids. We typically do brunch at one of my favorite spots and then visit the Country Club Plaza for some spring shopping. (Although, I usually do need a nap after shopping.) It’s good being a mom. While getting your kids swimsuits out of the closet for the summer, browse our article about pool safety (p. 36) to make sure everyone has a fun and safe time in the pool. Or if you have an upcoming vacation, learn about vacationing on a budget (p. 30). It could save you some money while making your trip more exciting and enjoyable. For all you moms out there, we at SIMPLYkc Magazine wish you a relaxing Mother’s Day!
Suzanne Steiner, Publisher
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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, Marcelo Espina with KC Photo and Video, Brennan Hallock of Hallock Writing & Design, Jerame Gray CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julie Burton, Sophie Oswald, Bethaney Phillips, David Marks, Lauren Dreher, Brennan Hallock of Hallock Writing & Design, Shannon E. Roesgen, Judy Goppert, T.E. Cunningham, Allison Gibeson, Tiffany Killoren, Gina Reardon, 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 • West Elm Photography, 201 W. Pearl St., Harrisonville, MO, 816.665.6505, 201wepstudios@gmail.com, westelmphotgraphy.com, @westelmphotography MODEL • Taylor Good Voices &, 118 Walnut, Suite 120, Kansas City, MO, 816.753.4261, voicesand.com, @voicesandmodels WARDROBE • Luxxe Apparel, 313 SE Douglas St.,Lee’s Summit, MO, 816-524-5771, shopluxxeapparel.com, @shopluxxeapparel HAIR & MAKEUP • Alex Glaviano, 816.216.8771, ag-artistry.com
PHOTO BY JAMI BOWMAN
SHOT ON LOCATION • Colonial Gardens, 27610 E. Wyatt Road, Blue Springs, MO
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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. ©2022, Mach Publications, LLC.
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AROUND TOWN
A LOCAL BUSINESS PROVIDES A MULTI-GENERATION PASSION FOR PLANTS WRITTEN BY SOPHIE OSWALD / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN
W
hen people think about buying flowers, they don’t always picture heading to a local business. They often think of large department stores. But what if we told you there is an excellent one-stop shop near you that can fulfill all of your plant buying needs? Family Tree Nursery started over 50 years ago. Today they happily serve the community from three locations. They can be found in Overland Park and Shawnee, Kansas; and Liberty, Missouri. The commitment they have to bringing the community a fabulous selection of great plants is something they practice at each location. The knowl-
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edge and passion found at Family Tree Nursery is hard to find in other stores. On top of that, they have many decades of experience under their belts. Overland Park was the first location created by Family Tree Nursery and is a favorite of many people in the community. This is the largest of their locations and covers five acres. It is filled with trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, houseplants, and more. The passion behind this business has carried over through multiple generations. “I was born and raised into this and my grandfather started it in the ‘60s,” explains Jonah Nelson, store manager. “I’m the third generation in my family who is a part of it. My dad
owns it now and I am helping him run the business.” “I am passionate about it because I love plants and I love people and helping people and I love that it is our family business,” Nelson continues. “I am happy to be a part of something that has been around for that long and I feel blessed that I have the opportunity to be able to impact it in the way I do right now.” The passion this family has for plants and assisting those in the community doesn’t stop with them. The staff at Family Tree Nursery is kind and full of knowledge too. They can guide even the most unsure customers and help match them with the perfect plant (or plants) for their needs.
In addition to the great staff, they also have an inhouse design team. They are here to assist with container design and installation. Inside the Overland Park and Shawnee locations, you will find Café Equinox, a botanically-inspired cafe. Here they sell Thou Mayest coffee beverages, local pastries, and more. You can enjoy them in the indoor seating area surrounded by calming plants, or take them with you as you walk around and shop. There are hopes of expanding beyond three Family Tree Nursery locations down the line. Nelson explains there is always a plan for the future, but it is all about being patient with the right timing. “We are planning to open up another store in the future, but we are just not quite there yet,” says Nelson. “We have a little bit of work to do, but we have property and everything else ready to go—we are just waiting on the full plan to develop.” Another unique thing about Family Tree Nursery is each year the Overland Park store hosts events. No events are coming up soon as they prepare for their busiest time of the year, but keep this business in mind when you are looking for events to attend in the future. Sometimes they offer live music, tasty food, and gorgeous garden displays. For now, you can look forward to great in-store specials and sales. This time of year they are all stocked up with gorgeous plants, and they have great prices to match. “We have some big sales coming up; our annual geranium sale and an annual Mother’s Day sale,” says Nelson. Instead of buying your mom flowers from a department store, consider checking out Family Tree Nursery. They have a vast selection of plants, so their customers are far from limited. They offer succulents, dahlias, geraniums, and so much more. You will feel good knowing you supported a local business, and you will put a smile on your mom’s face.
Family Tree Nursury Locations Overland Park: 8424 Farley St., Overland Park, KS, 913.642.6503
Shawnee: 7036 Nieman Rd., Shawnee, KS, 913.631.6121
Liberty: 830 W. Liberty Dr., Liberty, MO, 816.781.0001
familytreenursery.com
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INFOCUS
PERSONALIZED SKINCARE AND BOUTIQUE OPTIONS WRITTEN BY BETHANEY PHILLIPS / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN
L
et your skin bloom. With personalized attention and professional knowhow, you can add health, comfort, and function to your skincare routine. Just ask Hollie Muther, owner of Bloom a Skincare Studio. In business since 2018, Muther has transformed her love for esthetics by offering medical-grade facials, dermaplaning, microdermabrasions, oxygen facials, chemical peels, facial waxing, lash lifting and tinting, and more. Each service is adapted to your skin and preferences. Muther adds that she always recommends starting with
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the basics. This is for two reasons. One, so she can get to know your skin. And two, so you can see how your skin reacts in the days to come. Muther isn’t your typical esthetician. She checks in on her clients to see how their skin is behaving after treatments, and takes detailed notes so she can learn more about each patient. “I would never do anything aggressive on skin that I don’t know very well,” she explains. And her clients love her methods, getting personalized spa attention and an incredible dose of relaxation.
Client Erika L. says, “Hollie is seriously beyond amazing! She walks you through everything and makes sure to teach you about how to continue keeping healthy, beautiful skin. I definitely recommend her to anyone wanting beautiful glowing skin!” Muther is always excited to see—and serve—new faces. “I always recommend a new client come in for a consultation. When it comes to facials, one size doesn’t fit all. Everyone has different skin types and different needs. By offering medical-grade facials, Muther helps combat issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and loss of
collagen. Serving clients from 12 to 90 years old, including men and women alike, she says she often “cocktails together whatever I need to for my clients for their skin needs.” The studio also hosts additional professionals, including a nurse who offers injectables, such as Botox and fillers. Bloom offers a unique mix of boutique offerings, including Muther’s favorite things. Not only can clients stock up on their favorite skincare items, they can shop goodies like jewelry, décor, handmade bags, and more. “It’s little unique things like these that you can’t find in mass market,” Muther says. “It’s a reflection of my tastes, what works for me, and what I want to offer to others.” Muther and her contractors offer monthly specials, allow-
ing visitors to try out new services and save while doing it.
“I definitely recommend Bloom to anyone wanting beautiful, glowing skin!” FALLING IN LOVE WITH SKINCARE
Opening her skincare spa was a goal for Muther, and perhaps one she didn’t know she had until later in life. After years as a photographer, with grown children out of the house, she was ready for a new chapter. She started working as a nursing assistant, then fell in love with the idea of proper skincare
and helping others achieve that goal. “I kind of looked at it as this is something I want and I was really devoted,” she explains. “When you get out of high school you just go to college. It’s just what you do. Going back to school at a later age made me appreciate it more.” A few years later, she’s created a successful business, helped countless clients, and is on her way to an expansion. Bloom is growing, adding new sections of the spa. These will open early this summer, including new skincare and wellness services. “I was scared to try,” she says. “But I didn’t want that to stop me. I was at a point where I said I have to try it, and now here I am.”
Bloom a Skincare Studio • 6130 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS • bloomaskincarestudio.com • 913.707.0652
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BE WELL
FIGHTING A MEDICAL DOUBLE WHAMMY HEART DISEASE AND COLON CANCER WRITTEN BY DAVID MARKS
Heart disease and cancer have had something in common that is troubling. They continue to be the two leading causes of death in the U.S., by a lot. In fact, each of them is greater than the next three leading causes combined. But now there’s an added concern. Heart attack survivors may have an increased risk of developing cancer compared to people without cardiovascular disease. And that’s not all. “There is significant data that indicates that a diagnosis of colorectal cancer leads to an increase in the risk of developing both coronary atherosclerosis and congestive heart failure,” says Andrew Waters, MD, FACC, RPVI, cardiologist, AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiology & Cardiovascular Surgery at Shawnee Mission Health. At the heart of it all—no pun intended—is a group of risk factors that increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes. This group is known as metabolic syndrome, and it includes high
blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and belly fat. When you have at least three of these risk factors, your chances for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke are higher than they’d be with any of those health problems on their own. “Metabolic syndrome is associated with several adverse health outcomes, and this includes cardiovascular disease as well as a number of different types of cancer,” says Dr. Waters.
How does colon cancer affect the heart? Patients with colorectal cancer have a significantly greater risk than the
general population for developing cardiovascular disease and congestive heart failure. And in some cases, one of the medications used to treat many colorectal patients can promote the buildup of coronary atherosclerosis, better known as hardening of the arteries. “Although studies have demonstrated that the greatest increase in cardiovascular mortality occurs in the first two years after diagnosis of colorectal cancer, there is a prolonged increase in risk that persists for up to a decade afterwards,” says Dr. Waters. Fortunately, there’s a way to fight back. By reducing the risk factors of metabolic syndrome, both heart disease and colon cancer can continued on page 18
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BE WELL CONT.
“From a preventative standpoint, it makes sense to focus on the people who are likely to develop metabolic syndrome,” says Dr. Waters. “People with central obesity, hypertension, a family or personal history of diabetes mellitus, a sedentary lifestyle, or a past medical history of polycystic ovarian syndrome are likely to develop metabolic syndrome. These are common conditions that can be evaluated and diagnosed by a primary care physician as part of routine checkups.” In fact, the American Heart Association has developed a regimen called Life’s Simple Seven to combat metabolic syndrome. It recommends eating a healthy diet (more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein), being physically active,
avoiding all tobacco/nicotine products, and attaining and maintaining a healthy body weight, cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure. And if lifestyle changes don’t control your metabolic syndrome, your doctor may also suggest medicine. It won’t replace lifestyle changes, but it can help. For example, you may get a drug called a statin to lower your cholesterol. Other medicines may lower your blood pressure, prevent blood clots, fight coronary disease and lower your chances of having a heart attack. AdventHealth offers HEARTaware, a free, online heart disease risk assessment designed to help you identify your risk factors for developing heart disease. To complete a quick and free heart risk assessment, visit AdventHealthKC.com/Heart.
Why it’s so important to have a physician who understands the relationship between these two diseases and their treatments When a patient receives a diagnosis of colorectal cancer, it helps to have a team-based approach—with access to a cardio-oncology team that can help the primary oncology team screen for and manage any potential cardiovascular complications of chemotherapy. —Andrew Waters, MD, FACC, RPVI, Cardiologist, AdventHealth
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Experience the ce. Paint Differen Our fume-free environment is expertly designed with elegant decor, large selection of premium products + accessories and high sterilization standards ensure the utmost perfection in aesthetic, comfort + cleanliness
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be prevented before they become life-threatening.
MAY
Skincare • Beauty
Wellness • Lifestyle
A SKINCARE STUDIO
Facial Special Collagen Facial with Dermaplaning - $160 A facial designed to restore the depleted collagen and replenish your body’s natural proteins. Rejuvenating, tightening, and slows down the natural aging process through external application. Safe for all skin types.
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HAVING SOME SCANXIETY ABOUT YOUR ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM?
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At Diagnostic Imaging Centers, we understand that waiting for results can be stressful. That’s why we give sameday results to most screening mammogram patients that come through our doors. It’s just that simple; walk in for your mammogram and walk out with your results. Call, schedule online, or walk in to one of our nine metro clinics.
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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. Chef Thorne-Thomsen, chef/owner of Story, is a James Beard Award Nominee for Best Chef Midwest! Enjoy patio, bar, or dining room seating at Story. 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
UNdo what you think you know about food. We live to serve you chef-inspired food made with fresh, local ingredients. We promise to buy and support seasonal, local ingredients first; if not local we source from smaller family GAP-certified or organic farms, prime growing regions, artisan producers, and with fair trade partnerships. Fork or no fork, you can be sure you’re getting the highest quality, socially responsible ingredients possible.
OVERLAND PARK - 7337 W 119th St. • 913.661.9887 KANSAS CITY (Crown Center) - 2450 Grand Blvd. #113 • 816.283.3675 WESTWOOD - 4719 Rainbow Blvd. • Coming soon! unforked.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!
KC CULINARY COMMUNI TY
Join us for a socially-distanced version of our famous bake sale! Featuring contributions from culinary professionals including wholesale & retail bakeries, specialty bakers, caterers, restaurants, and confectioners, plus a host of other wildly talented independent and Next Generation bakers!
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BEAUTY
THESE TIPS AND TRICKS WILL HELP YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MAKEUP LOOK WRITTEN BY SOPHIE OSWALD
A
22
fter spending time leaning over your sink, looking into the mirror, and getting your makeup exactly how you like it, the last thing you want is for it to disappear. Smudged or runny makeup is irritating—whether you spend a few minutes on your appearance or hours.
ple have dry skin, which can be a struggle of its own.
These days, wearing a face mask can make your beauty products practically melt off. Maybe you have been crying, or it is a hot day and sweat is doing the damage. The same thing can happen from your skin’s natural oils. Some peo-
Fortunately, there are a few tips to help your makeup last longer
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When your makeup comes off before you are ready, it is not only a waste of valuable time but also a waste of your products and the money you spend on them. Few people have the time to touch up their makeup throughout the day.
“The best way to get the most from your makeup application is by using a great primer suited to your skin type before applying your foundation, like a matte primer for
oily skin or a hydrating one for dry skin,” says professional makeup artist Shayla Nash. There are many reasons why primers are handy. They help smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. This smoothness allows you to get more coverage from your products. As Nash explains, there are many kinds of primers available. Each primer works to serve different skin types. A good primer will even out your skin tone and correct discoloration. There are also bases and primers made for the application of eyeshadow. These can make your
eyeshadow appear brighter and prevent the product from caking. You want to complete your morning skincare routine before applying a primer. After you have washed your face and applied your moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF 15), you can put on the primer using circular motions. Many makeup artists suggest giving the primer a few minutes to settle before continuing with makeup application.
We have you covered for Mother’s Day
“Using a foundation with a matte or semi-matte finish will also wear longer,” Nash explains. Some foundations last longer than others. The formula used for matte foundations tends to be oil-free, which encourages the product to last the entire day. If you have dry skin, you might want to skip the matte foundation, but it is possible to find one that will still work for you. “Once the makeup is finished it can be ‘set’ with a translucent powder all over to keep it in place,” Nash continues. Not only will translucent powder take away unwanted shine, but it also helps you get the most out of your makeup look. You can even apply this a few times throughout the day if some of your products start fading. “Finally, a few mists of setting spray will lock everything in, and you should be set,” says Nash. Setting sprays will keep your makeup right where you want it. It should eliminate any need to touch up your look as the day goes by. “For oilier skin types, I recommend a refresh throughout the day by dabbing shiny areas using blotting papers or one-ply tissue to absorb shine without packing on more product,” Nash adds. Something as simple as touching your face can also cause your makeup to come off. This action smears your products and ruins the look you worked hard to create. Touching your face can also lead to breakouts, making future makeup applications appear less smooth. Breaking this habit is difficult, but worth trying. Take a look at your current products. Many makeup products are designed to be long-wearing. These range from lipsticks to foundations. Long-wearing products might be worth purchasing if you are worried about your makeup fading after trying out these tips. Make sure you research your products based on your skin type. Using the wrong items for your skin will affect the longevity of your looks.
Jewelry from White Buf falo Trading Company Select stones proudly from the USA
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INFOCUS
INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH WRITTEN BY LAUREN DREHER PHOTOS BY MARCELO ESPINA WITH KC PHOTO AND VIDEO
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sense of well-being. This is a phrase describing what most people would like to feel inside and out. We want to look and feel our best. Finding a doctor to help us do this is difficult, especially one who has a wide spectrum of services. Meet Dr. Jesse Lopez of Inspiration Health & Wellness. Dr. Lopez is a formally trained surgeon who specializes in weight loss surgery and functional integrative medicine. According to Dr. Lopez, integrating traditional and holistic medicine is essential to helping his patients heal. His passion stems from a core philosophy. The innate ability of the body to heal using multiple modalities. Unique to his practice is approaching the patient through mind, body, and spirit via modalities such as hormonal and metabolic balance. Getting your hormones in check is important. When imbalanced, you can feel an array of symptoms includ-
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Dr. Jesse Lopez
ing, but not limited to, decreased energy, lack of motivation and initiative, poor concentration and memory, irritability, mood swings, and feelings of depression. You can find the complete list on their website (inspiration. health). If any of these ring a bell for you, looking into bio-identical hormone therapy (BHRT) could help. If your health and wellness journey includes weight loss, Dr. Lopez’s program is also designed for those who
may prefer a non-surgical option for weight control. This could include the Orbera Intragastric Balloon and weight loss medications. As you continue on this journey, if surgical weight loss interests you, he is more than happy to discuss the Gastric Band or Sleeve Gastrectomy. He is committed to helping you be successful on your journey and view it as an investment in yourself. As stated on the wall of his office, “Your healthcare is an investment, not an expense.”
Dr. Lopez and his team are here to help you be successful in feeling and looking your best. Starting with the internal and biological aspects, which often lead to a change in outer appearance. Often, after patients experience weight loss, they find facial wrinkles and deep lines that were not previously evident. Thus, they have aesthetic procedures to help such as Botox and collagen fillers. You might think this is something only women do when, in fact, Dr. Lopez takes pride in helping men become their own health advocates. “Many times men don’t feel they need the help. We try to encourage them to understand it’s okay if they need the help. There is a reason for the fatigue, waning muscle mass and decreased libido they may be experiencing.” YOUR THOUGHTS CREATE YOUR REALITY
What makes Inspiration Health & Wellness stand out? They won’t just hear the issue and prescribe a pill. Dr. Lopez
explains, “I’m so blessed when patients tell me they finally feel like they are being heard and they can start getting to the root of the issue. No one has really listened to their concerns. We search for answers, not just prescribe a pill.”
“Your thoughts create your reality. If you believe you’re going to be successful in your health care journey, you will. We are here to help and support you in achieving that.”
When asked about the mindset that Inspiration Health & Wellness instills in their patients, Dr. Lopez says, “Your thoughts create your reality. If you be-
Pictured from L to R: Valeria Roca, Billing Coordinator; Stormyee Edmonson,
lieve you’re going to be successful in your health care journey, you will. You need to come believing you’ll be successful, and we are here to help and support you in achieving that.” This is something you’ll find throughout the office staff. Their goal is to make you feel supported from the first time you call. They want you to have confidence you made the right choice. They take it to an extreme to help with insurance questions and help you understand the services provided. Even after the first phone call, patients feel Dr. Lopez and his staff are looking out for their best interest. Dr. Lopez is proud that they never closed their offices to patients during the pandemic and were always available for a face-toface consultation. For a full view of products and services, visit their website, inspiration.health, or contact Dr. Lopez and his team to get started with your health care journey.
Dr. Lopez discusses functional medicine with one of his patients.
Director of Clinical Administration and Services; Dr. Lopez, Physician/Surgeon; Micaela Roca, Front Office Medical Assistant
Inspiration Health and Wellness • 7201 W. 110th St., Ste. 120, Overland Park, KS www.inspiration.health • 913.647.3999
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Photography / West Elm Photography Model / Taylor Good with Voices & Hair & Makeup / Alex Glaviano Shot on Location / Colonial Gardens
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FINANCE
HOW DO YOU VACATION ON A BUDGET? ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENNAN HALLOCK
Above: Vaduz Castle, official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein
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just returned from vacationing in Europe for three weeks with my family of five. And the itinerary included about a week in two of the most expensive cities in the world—Zurich and Geneva, Switzerland—among other incredibly expensive cities in France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Liechtenstein. I love traveling, but I don’t like spending excessive amounts of money. So when preparing for this trip it brought up the question How do you vacation on a budget? There is the obvious answer to this question: Just travel to a cheaper location. But this eliminates traveling to some incredible destinations and experiencing what they have to offer. For example, it eliminates most of Europe. So here are some tips for traveling on a budget—even when visiting
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expensive countries like Switzerland. Be flexible with your flights and destinations: Your flights are often the most expensive piece of the trip, but they don’t have to be. Be flexible about what day you travel on—midweek is usually cheaper than the weekend; be flexible about what city you fly into—check out cities near your destination; and be flexible about where you fly out of—if you drive to a nearby city it may be cheaper. If you plan to vacation soon, start paying attention to flights in the general area you’d like to vacation. For example, pick a certain month you’d like to vacation and a certain country or region you’d like to visit, then consistently check flights in multiple cities in that region and multiple dates in that month. Google Flights (google.com/flights) is a good site for do-
ing this. Click on their map and use their “Flexible Dates” option. Be flexible with your schedule: You should create a schedule for your trip, especially if you are visiting multiple locations, but be ready to change plans. If you’ve never visited a location, you’ll know a lot more about it after you’ve arrived. You may learn there are cheaper ways to travel between cities or find hotels or entertainment. Travel on the edge (or outside) of tourist season: Prices increase during tourist season. If you travel out of season, prices for hotels, entertainment, flights, transportation—nearly everything—will decrease. There is a reason tourist season is during a certain time of year, and this is usually weather. Outside of tourist season it may be much colder (or
Above left to right: Duomo di Milano Cathedral in Milan, Italy
hotter), rainier, or snowier. And sometimes entertainment is closed out of season. But if you travel on the edge of tourist season, you can sometimes get the benefit of both. You may get cheaper prices, and still have good weather. Create a budget—but don’t let it rule your trip: It’s essential to create a budget if you want to travel frugally. Diving into a trip with no idea of the cost will always mean you’ll spend more than you expect. The budget doesn’t need to be complicated; you can create a simple Excel spreadsheet. But you need to go through your itinerary and find prices for all of your planned lodg-
ing and anticipated entertainment. And estimate costs for food and transportation. These can be estimated costs, and you don’t have to let them take the fun out of your trip, but you need to have them available as you pull out your card every day. Think about how closely you’re following your budget and let it be a guide for your financial decisions. Bring (frugal) friends: This is a great way to spread out some of your biggest costs, such as lodging or a car rental. Sharing costs with friends can be a game changer in very expensive locations. For example, sharing an Airbnb or Vrbo can lower your lodging expenses to relatively normal numbers, even in cities like Geneva. But be warned: if you bring friends who like to spend lots of money this will backfire. Make sure your friends have similar financial guidelines. Find free entertainment in your destinations: In expensive cities, there’s an incredible amount of free or cheap entertainment. For example, in Europe the architecture is incredible and most of it is free or cheap to visit. There are also many outdoor activities such as beautiful hikes or incredible mountain ranges you can drive to. Another example is just exploring the old parts of the cities. Many of these old downtown areas are nearly 1,000 years old.
Limit eating out: Eating out is one of the costs that will destroy your budget the fastest. For example, in cities like Zurich it is nearly impossible to find a restaurant with food under $25-$30 per plate. Take a family to a restaurant and you will spend $100$200 for one meal. But eating out is also one of the best ways to experience a culture and enjoy a trip. You don’t need to eliminate eating out; just limit it. For example, eat out once per day, and for the other meals buy food from a grocery store. Grocery stores are a great way to see what local people really eat. Use public transport: In large cities this will be considerably cheaper than renting a car. If you’re going deep into the countryside or you’re in an area with poor public transportation this won’t work. But most expensive countries have excellent public transportation, and some of it is even free. Use credit card rewards: Finally, credit card rewards can help cover some of your expenses. Many credit cards— such as the Capital One Venture card or the Chase Sapphire Preferred card—are designed for travel and come with excellent intro rewards. You can use these to wipe out plane ticket costs, lodging costs, and more.
Above: Brennan Hallock (SIMPLYkc writer/editor) with his wife in Chamonix, France
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7 THINGS
7
WAYS TO CELEBRATE MOM THIS MONTH
1. Clean her home. Most of us feel a bit overwhelmed these days. Moms tend to feel the weight of the world more than others. Take something off of your mom’s plate by cleaning her home.
2. Spend time together. One of the cheapest and most simple things you can give your mom is your time. Whether you take your mom out to eat or just lounge around the house together, spending time with each other is important. Pick an activity you love to do and try it together or watch a mother-daughter-themed movie.
3. Take her out for a day of pampering or treat her to a spa day at home. Spoiling your mom with some self-care is a great thing to do. This is true whether you decide to pamper her at the salon or in the comfort of your home. You can gather some items at the store, like face masks and lotion, or go to a local spa and hook her up with some relaxation there.
4. Drink some delicious mimosas. You can enjoy mimosas at a Mother’s Day brunch or make some at home with just a few ingredients. Having a mimosa or two can be a great time to have meaningful conversations and get to know each other better.
5. Take a class together. There are lots of classes out there to try together. Some popular options include painting and pottery.
6. Cook together. Instead of taking your mom out to eat or just cooking her a meal, try creating one together. You could try cooking an old family recipe and allow her to show you the ropes. You could also choose a recipe you both have always wanted to try or just her favorite dish.
7. Surprise her with a gift. Is there something your mom has been wanting to buy but is always holding back? Maybe you recently saw something cute in the store that reminded you of her. Try celebrating your mom by buying her a thoughtful gift. It doesn’t have to be expensive to be special.
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APP OF THE MONTH
ARE YOU A LINK LOVER? POCKET IS FOR YOU
The gist: Everyone has stumbled across a link
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and other features to make it perfect for your needs. You can save under tags to keep things organized. The app even allows you to listen to articles. You can use this app for free or purchase Pocket Premium, which costs $5/month or $45/year. The paid option comes with unique features and removes ads.
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r a e D
KACIE DON’T YELL AT ME To the parents who don’t yell—how do you get your kids to do as you ask? I swear, I have to remind my kids 1,000 times to do something or not do something and they only respond when I freak out and yell at them. I need a strategy that isn’t yelling all the time. Any advice?
WHY ARE YOU YELLING AT ME?! I’ve heard it. I’m a mom too. Remember, calm Suzy (and her terrible rock-throwing son on the playground) is probably not the same at home. She also probably only posts family portraits on her Facebook. And “best day ever!” beach pictures with the kids. She’s lying. There is a 100 percent chance there is sand in her toddler’s butt and he had a meltdown over it. My point is you’re not alone in losing it. I’ve yelled at my kids’ deaf ears too. But there are ways to yell less. First of all, studies have shown that yelling doesn’t work. It scares the kids. But what does work? Figure out your trigger. Yelling isn’t automatic. It’s built out of frustration. Maybe you had a hard day at work. Maybe you need to give the kids a snack while you eat a snack yourself. Be wary of what makes you triggered to yell. If you’re directing your kids to do (or not do) something, give them a warning. Warnings let kids mentally prepare for a transition. Take a timeout for yourself. Go yell in the bathroom. Yell at the birds outside. Give your neighbor, Suzy, a show. You’re human. You can yell outside. Know that children won’t be perfect. They don’t listen. They are always testing their independence with you. If they misbehave, use it as a teaching moment later. Yes, get down to Danny Tanner level (may he rest in peace). Make sure you realize yelling is more about you than the children. YOU HEAR THAT, SUZY!?
If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to contact@simplykcmag.com.
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PARENTING
SPRING INTO SWIMMING THIS MAY WRITTEN BY SHANNON E. ROESGEN
Can you believe our pools will be open by the end of this month? Nine months is a long time for kids to be out of the water. While going to the pool may be the best part of summer, there are some things to remember to keep your child safe. Here are some gentle reminders as we transition back to pool time. 1.
muscle memory of what to do and won’t have to think while in crisis. Eventually, your child will be able to automatically kick back to the wall and pull him or herself out of the water to safety. 3.
egression is normal. If any of R us stop doing something for nine months, we regress. Cardio. Lifting weights. Speaking a foreign language. The expression “use it or lose it” certainly does reign true. And so it is for swimming.
Floating is counterintuitive because you have to relax your body and do nothing. Often, children try harder to swim faster or stronger when tiredness sets in. When we speed up, a feeling of panic can easily be created. We need to slow down and float to catch our breath. It sounds like common sense when we are on land, but in water when people panic they tend to do anything but float.
Remind your children to make sure to keep their mouths closed while going underwater. In addition, a great way to keep water out of the nose is to have your child hum while underwater. 2.
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Rehearse what to do if your child accidentally falls in a pool. That way, your child develops
each your children to float if T tiredness sets in. This skill is imperative for children swimming in water that is over their heads.
4.
Watch your child constantly. Lifeguards only have one set
of eyes, and drowning happens silently. Be hypervigilant. Stay off your phones and monitor your child and other children’s behavior to keep everyone safe. I know this isn’t fun to think about. I know how isolating it can be to be a mom and how great it can feel to connect with friends at the pool, but drowning is the second leading cause of death for children under five. Until children have the skills to swim safely and the maturity to behave responsibly at the pool, they need us to be hypervigilant to keep them safe. 5.
Puddle jumpers teach children to be vertical in the pool, but the posture of swimming demands a horizontal body position, being parallel to the bottom of the pool rather than perpendicular.
When I teach children to swim, as they transition out of the puddle jumper, it is really confusing for them. They are used to kicking their feet while having a standing posture rather than a floating posture with the feet out behind them.
Floating is scary to most kids, especially on the back. 6.
This is a huge deal for your kids as they need to learn to trust the water. Children need to learn that as we relax the body, the feet will float and our bodies are designed to float. When we are scared, we get tense and our bodies turn into rocks. I often ask the kids, “And what do rocks do in the water? … That’s right. Rocks sink. Do we want to sink in the water? No. That’s right. What do we want to do in the water? You got it. Float. Float like a jellyfish.” Easier said than done—floating. Be patient with your child.
Don’t put pressure on yourself to go to the pool if you have multiple children who can’t swim independently. Swimming isn’t mandatory. I remember when my children were small, I still had energy to try to be the perfect mom. Now that my kids are teenagers, I have given up on that illusion. Keeping our children safe at the pool can be very stressful. If you don’t feel comfortable taking them by yourself, that is okay.
7.
I always tell the kids I teach: “My number one job is to keep you safe, but my number two job is to make sure you have fun.” And I tell you the same. Be safe first, then have fun, and I hope you have a wonderful summer.
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INFOCUS
SCRATCH GOURMET EXPRESS & CATERING IS READY TO SERVE YOU! WRITTEN BY JUDY GOPPERT / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN
A
new spring menu will delight everyone who tastes it, with flavors and unique dishes filling the menu. Executive chef Joshua Walters elevates familiar foods and presents them in appealing, mesmerizing detail. Scratch Gourmet Express & Catering opened in August 2020 and made it through the pandemic by offering takeout and catering. This past April they opened for dine-in business once again and serve seasonal dishes from 11 am to 8 pm. They are located in The Shops of Prairie Village, inside the old Standees movie theatre location.
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Owners Tyler and Monica Morrison met in Dallas, Texas, and married in September 2019, then moved back to their hometown. “Monica was manager of a few store openings for Wing Stop Corporation and helped open 300 stores. I was in operations at Top Golf headquarters, so we both have operations and entertainment experience,” he explains. “We always wanted to start our own restaurant, so when we had our son Tex, who will be two in May, we took the plunge. We live only a mile away and love the community-driven feeling. We wanted to resonate with that and be a part of our community.”
Their spring menu launched April 5, and reflects fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables and flavors created and inspired by executive chef Joshua Walters, who joined them a little over a year ago. “Joshua is the backbone of our restaurant. We did a strenuous process of choosing a chef,” says Tyler. “He is from Kansas City and at age 26 is already leaving his mark. We actually did one of our wine dinners on March 25, where Chef Joshua prepared a dinner based on a five-course wine selection provided by Franks Family Vineyards from Napa Valley.
“The effect of gathering is lost in our world today. Our restaurant offers that intimate style of dining.”
Michael Sterling flew out and hosted the dinner and tasting for 20 guests,” Tyler continues. “We do a lot of private events, and build custom menus for birthday parties, anniversaries, and executive dinners.” Walters began his career at age 19 at the Kansas City Club, then opened Modern Ozark Dining in Bentonville, Arkansas, at age 20. He began as sous chef, then after three years became executive chef. “This restaurant had an
interesting concept, with a six-course style prefix,” Walters says. “One of the bigger challenges was coming up with a new menu and modern style. As chefs, we cooked whatever we wanted to serve! We focused on local food and Ozark cuisine. It was our interpretation of foods that are classical.” Walters uses wasted vegetable products, such as onion skins and peels to make garnishes and sauces. Onion skins are made into a delicious onion caramel sauce with great onion flavor. He uses items that would be conventionally thrown away in most kitchens.
Above: Executive Chef Joshua Walters Photo by Jane Walters
“On the wine dinner Tyler mentioned, we made a brown butter herb-infused candle. We infused glycerin flakes with butter and herbs and cast it into butter candles. When you sat down, you had a candle burning in front of you,” Walters explains. “The candle wax melted to become the butter for your bread. We want a consistent outcome, so we cook by weight. We manipulate products to make gels and sauces. For example, we use chorizo powder to make chorizo flavored chips.”
The spring menu will focus on fresh vegetables, and the beautiful season of early harvest. The spring menu includes crudité plates, with hummus and roast red peppers. One of the appetizers is a fried smoked pickled mushroom, featuring smoked local oyster mushroom, that goes through a pickling process infused with rosemary and black garlic. “We take that and tempura batter, transforming the humble mushroom to be a fried smoked pickle,” Walters smiles. “We will probably be doing some morels since that season is coming up.” Walters’ foray into cooking began at age two, when his mother discovered him on top of the fridge holding a butcher knife and an apple. “I cut it into eight equal pieces!” he laughs. “My family was very food-oriented as I grew up, and we would gather every week to share a large meal created by my grandmother. This intimate setting brings a type of fellowship to your life. The effect of gathering is lost in our world today. Our restaurant offers that intimate style of dining.”
Scratch Gourmet Express & Catering • 3939 W. 69th Terr., Prairie Village, KS • scratchgourmet.com • 913.766.6021 SIMPLYkc Special: FREE shareable or dessert for SIMPLYkc readers
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WELLNESS
LIVING WITH ADHD PART TWO
WRITTEN BY T.E. CUNNINGHAM
Last month we reviewed the definitions of ADHD and behaviors associated with the three types of ADHD: inattentive type, hyperactive/impulsive type, and combined type. While the cause of ADHD is not yet known, there has been some advancement in its understanding. Three out of four children diagnosed with ADHD have a close relative who also suffers from the disorder, which points to genetic origination. There is a school of thought that premature birth or the mother using cigarettes, drugs, or alcohol extensively while pregnant may impact. There may also be a causal effect based on the patient having
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suffered a brain injury. Now let’s explore the diagnosis and treatment of the disorder. Diagnosis There is no brain X-ray or scan to diagnose ADHD, nor does it present through blood work examination. It is behaviorally diagnosed; that is, it is diagnosed by observing and gathering information from the individual and those around the individual. The individual should also undergo the basics of a medical exam, from vision and hearing screening to a general checkup. These efforts are more to rule out other medical issues that may be present than to diagnose ADHD. Symptoms that the physician or counselor will look for include: • Abnormally high activity levels • I nability to focus or pay attention as compared to peers • Not being able to sit still •C onstant misplacement of items
and incomplete work, whether at school or work While children who have ADHD tend to stand out as “different,” the disorder may be more difficult for adults to figure out. In this scenario, the physician or counselor tends to gather the information from diagnosis direction from the patient through a series of questions and ratings of the answers. Other disorders can also present similarly to ADHD or work in conjunction with ADHD. Some of these include autism, spectrum disorder, social communication disorder, and learning disorders. Treatment Treatment for ADHD is a highly personalized and individual experience. “It depends on a multitude of factors including underlying medical conditions, genetics, and patient preference,” advises Dr. Sasha Hamdani, board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD specialist. “To be abundantly
clear, there are numerous treatment modalities besides stimulant medication. I generally clarify this when seeing patients as I feel like many people get stuck on that and then don’t want to pursue treatment.” Medication Medication is a standard treatment for ADHD, and there are two main types: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants do what you would infer from the label; they “stimulate” or increase the user’s brain activity and physical activity. While this may seem counter-intuitive, those affected with ADHD have a reverse reaction to these drugs, and the medicine serves to calm and focus the patient. Ritalin and Adderall fall into this category. Non-stimulants work by increasing norepinephrine, a chemical found in the brain. This chemical has been found to increase attention span and calm the patient. These medications have also proven to be less intense than drugs like Ritalin or Adderall. Some common pre-
scriptions that fall in this category are Strattera, Wellbutrin and guanfacine. As much as these medicines can help the patient, they are not for everyone. There are often side effects—weight loss being a leader in this area. Also, a patient may experience palpitations, feel like their heart is racing and have trouble sleeping at night. Therapy ADHD brings social challenges in addition to elevated stress levels and other challenges. Having a counselor to hash it out with can be incredibly helpful for those who have ADHD, especially kids, who may be grappling with emotions they don’t yet have the maturity to grasp. Not to be missed either, parents of children with ADHD may well need a support group, advisor, or counselor. Raising a child with ADHD can impact parents—mentally, emotionally, and physically. The therapist may also help create behavior management strategies, includ-
ing guidelines to increase organization, minimize distractions, and provide more structure in the patient’s environment. Creative Outlets Especially in children who have ADHD, finding a creative outlet they are passionate about can release much of the anxiety, frustration, and stress they retain inside. The arts are a great choice to explore for kids. Physical activity that may not require as much “team” interaction or closely following plays/directions can be a good option— for example horseback riding, longdistance running, or swimming. Water itself can be calming and soothing. Early recognition and management is key, Dr. Hamdani stresses. “Part of navigating this process is providing your child (or yourself) with as many tools and resources as possible to help ease symptoms. By working with your provider and your school/work environment you can sometimes get accommodations which may be beneficial in enhancing performance.”
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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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A Not-So-Ordinary Book Discussion
BY TIFFANY KILLOREN
SO ... WHAT ARE YOU READING? I get asked this question a lot, and I also ask it of friends, eager for the next recommendation or opportunity to discuss a book I may have already read. This column is a hodgepodge of books I’ve read so far in 2022. You’ll find the following is quite an eclectic mix, but that’s intentional. I can’t read the same type of book back-to-back, and tend to mix them up so my brain stays alert. I might sprinkle in a little Stephen King after a biography, followed by some historical fiction or a new release. It’s a weird reader thing, but I’m sure you understand. Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty (Anderson Cooper & Katherine Howe, 2021)
The Gilded Age. The term is technically in reference to the late 19th century economic boom period, but I often associate it with times of particular glamor and societal traditions that have long since passed. The Vanderbilt family’s powerful rise during this time is well-known, but the family’s tendency for selfindulgence, excessiveness, and lack of self-awareness that led to their downfall does not typically accompany descriptions of their parallel success in business. This book—written by a rather reluctant Vanderbilt, Anderson Cooper, who has never felt connected to the family dynasty— is enlightening, emotional, and touching in ways I never could have imagined. The fact that he wrote it for his son made it all the more so because, despite his celebrity, he is simply a parent who wants to make sure his child understands where he came from. Billy Summers (Stephen King, 2021) Stephen King
can be a polarizing author. If you don’t like the thought of rabid dogs or cars that have evil minds of their own, you tend to dismiss his writing as not your thing. Billy Summers is an example of his non-horror talent,
a tale about a sniper who sells his skills to less-than-reputable constituents back home who need things “taken care of.” A story about regret, relationships, and revenge, this book is a quick read (despite being 500+ pages) and even provides a fun nod to the Overlook Hotel. As a girl who embraces books that send a chill up my spine, trust me when I say this is chill-free. The Barbizon (Paulina Bren, 2021) What an enlight-
ening step back in time to the days when Sylvia Plath and other dedicated writers began their journeys in the hallways of The Barbizon, a women-only hotel in New York City that housed many famous faces and lesser knowns who still indelibly left their mark. A thoroughly researched accounting of this hotel and those who walked through its doors, The Barbizon is both history lesson and drama, the true-life tales of these women both heartbreaking and inspiring in their desire to make it in a city known for being lessthan-kind to the naïve, and the battles they faced in a time that didn’t look kindly on women who traveled their own paths.
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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KANSAS CITY’S FIRST BOUTIQUE STYLE SALON SUITE! Your vibe...
Supported by our tribe!
Visit our website to schedule your appointment with any of our experienced stylists. havensalonsuiteskc.com 4741 W. 134th St., Leawood, KS
Did You Know? Elephants eat over 600 pounds of food each day? The ongoing pandemic has profoundly affected the volunteer efforts and tourism to Elephant Nature Park, an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand. You can support these efforts (as well as supporting a local artist) by purchasing a print with the Photography for a Cause campaign. Half of the proceeds on fine art prints will be donated to ENP to help offset some of the costs to feed, care for, and protect the elephants, dogs, cats, as well as the many other creatures at this incredible rescue in Chiang Mai, Thailand. www.melaniejoi.com/pfc for more information.
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DISH
CHEF CARL THORNE-THOMSEN OWNER OF STORY
WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTO BY JERAME GRAY
When you take a seat at Story in Prairie Village, you’ve caught Chef Carl Thorne-Thomsen at a good time.
restaurant is knowing he’s taking care of people. That care extends to his family as well. You’ll find him at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market twice a week shopping for his other love— his family. He prepares his family dinners on Sunday and Monday nights, the nights Story is closed.
Thorne-Thomsen is owner and head chef at Story. Professionally, it’s a good time for Thorne-Thomsen because he is a finalist for the 2022 James Beard Award for the “Best Chef: Midwest.” The James Beard Foundation recognizes culinary professionals in the United States. They’re often referred to as the “Oscars of Food.”
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But you’ve also caught him at his best time of year to showcase his culinary craft. “A lot of people like the winter menus like braised meats and butternut squash, but I like things that are much fresher. Fresh herbs, gazpacho, raw tomato soup in the summer— things like that show off the ingredients. They might show off the skill of the cook a little bit but they really show off the fresh ingredients and the quality of the food,” Thorne-Thomsen explains. “To get it to be fantastic on the plate, you need to start with something really good.”
medium rare or well done. It’s a craft like hanging a door. You don’t want the door to be crooked, you want it to be straight,” Thorne-Thomsen says. “With food, I can see how to get better. I can tell when something is good or bad. It comes naturally to me to figure out the process of ingredients on the plate.”
It’s not just fresh ingredients that make a chef good at his trade. Thorne-Thomsen learned there is a level of skill when it comes to what is right and wrong. “There’s creativity in cooking, but there’s also a craft element. You have to be able to cook something to
You’ll find a reservation list that shows people who have been there hundreds of times in Story’s history of 10 years. Thorne-Thomsen’s reward for the demanding work of running a
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Using quality ingredients, perfecting the culinary craft, and one more thing makes Thorne-Thomsen good at what he does—caring about people.
And what does the award-winning chef recommend for you to pick up at the farmers market? At the height of summer, he suggests starting with a simple salad including cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs, and salt and pepper. And then add olive oil and vinegar to create the acidity that your mouth naturally responds to. He also suggests picking up a few things for an easy pasta dish. Sauté garlic, fresh tomatoes, fresh herbs, and basil to add to the pasta. Then top with parmesan. For Chef Thorne-Thomsen, his true art is food—and you caught him at the best time in his career and best time of year.
3931 W. 69th Terr., Prairie Village, KS 913.236.9955 • storykc.com
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GOOD TASTES
I’LL SEE YOUR MIMOSA AND RAISE YOU ONE SCONE! WRITTEN BY GINA REARDON / PHOTO BY MELANIE MCDOWELL
Double Cinnamon Scones YIELDS: 8 SCONES
For Scones 1 cup cold whole milk 1/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon Kosher salt 3 cups flour 2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 cup cold lightly salted Irish butter 1 cup cinnamon chips 1 egg white whisked with 1 tablespoon water Turbinado or coarse white sugar for topping
For Filling 1 cup brown sugar 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon Turbinado or coarse white sugar for sprinkling on top!
It’s spring, and it’s time to get your brunch on. It’s the season of celebration: Derby Day, Mother’s Day, graduations, Father’s Day around the corner, and wedding-related festivities. Whether it’s low key and casual or fancy schmancy, brunch is fun. And for me it’s less stressful to prepare than most in-home events. For some it’s all about the bottomless mimosas. For others it’s the savory meats and unusual omelet combinations. But for me it’s all about the baked goods. These scones hit all the right notes: tender, crispy edges, flakey biscuit-like interior, and the go-with-anything flavor of cinnamon. They’re worth every bite. I promise.
KC Bake Sale for No Kid Hungry WHEN: Sat., May 7, 9am-2pm
WHERE: Under the big white tent along the Meyer Boulevard
greenspace next to Commerce Bank in Brookside, 6336 Brookside Plaza, Kansas City, MO
bakesale.nokidhungry.org
Preparation In a small bowl, whisk milk, sugar, and salt to dissolve. In a medium bowl, sift together flour and baking powder. Cut 10 tablespoons of cold butter into 1/2-inch cubes and cut with pastry blender or pulse briefly in a food processor until pea-sized bits form with some larger pieces remaining. Add cinnamon chips and stir to evenly distribute. Add the milk mixture and stir with a fork until dough comes together. Gently knead 4-6 turns and transfer to a work surface. Roll out into a 14-by-8-inch rectangle with the long side facing you. Soften 2 tablespoons butter (not melted), spread evenly with fingertips or small offset spatula, and sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar mixture. Fold the bottom third of the dough up away from you and top third of the dough down as if folding a business letter for mailing. Then fold in half crosswise and flatten into an 8-by-4-inch rectangle. Cut in half lengthwise and in quarters crosswise to form eight squares. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden.
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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JOIN US FOR A DELIGHTFUL SUMMER EVENING AT THE OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS
ENJOY: Fine wine with exclusive hand-painted wine glass for all Delicious food from local restaurants Live music and entertainment
PRESENTING SPONSOR:
LEGACY SPONSORS:
in partnership with the Regnier Family Foundations
7-10 p.m. June 25, 2022
Purchase your tickets or sponsorship package today!
Visit stemssoiree.org or call 913.322.6467 for all ticket and event information.
BECAUSE I SAID SO...
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTO BY JAMI BOWMAN
Okay it was 24 years ago, but the fiery teenage angst still burns inside me. It really wasn’t that long ago when my parents were the worst parents ever. But I knew how to outsmart them because I was smarter, and they were old.
My daughters share the same birthday month of May. This year, I’ll have a new teenager and a sweet sixteen-er. I will officially have two teens this month, which is funny because I was just a teenager like 10 years ago.
I distinctly remember watching my crush’s girlfriend’s pregnant stomach get a little bigger every day. I was half sad and half relieved his feelings weren’t mutual. I remember my sophomore English teacher who not only wrote F on my midterm for my parents to sign but he also wrote “F(ailing)” as if my parents didn’t know what an F meant. Look at me now, teacher! That was years ago, though. It’s May 2022 and I am the parent of teenagers. I am the one getting angry at F(ailing) grades, educating my daughters about birth control, and oh, nice try: “I’m spending the night at my friend’s house after homecoming.” I know that trick. As much angst that I held, I was a good kid. I got decent grades. I worked at a daycare after school. I never drank alcohol or did drugs. I never smoked a cigarette during the ‘90s grunge phase. I think most of the good kid in me was due to unpopularity and trying to stay the invisible wallflower. I thought by the time I was old and had teenagers, I would be the coolest mom. I’d understand them. Well, I’m old now. This is the moment I imagined so long ago—I have teenage kids. I wouldn’t be writing this
article if I figured out how to parent them. I am not the cool mom. I’m the worst mom ever, actually. Sometimes my kids tell me so. Sometimes I tell myself. Sometimes Melissa in the comment section of Instagram tells me. Teenagers are not young adults. They’re really old kids who can drive and they make all decisions on pure hormones. I didn’t learn this until I grew up. My 13-year-old and 16-year-old have navigated school during a pandemic. They practice lockdowns as much as tornado drills. And they have a virtual social life in the palm of their hands that never really turns off even when you tell them to turn it off. My teenage self had no idea what kind of world my future kids would live in. There is a huge loss of control that comes with raising teenagers. You can’t control your teen. And even worse, you can’t control your teen’s friends or even their friend’s parents. Teenagers know this. Parents know this too. That part hasn’t changed in the 20 or so years. Being a teenager is different in 2022, but I can still help them because, like most adults, it still feels like I’m a teenager too. I don’t know everything. I’m not a parenting expert. But I know this month starts the deep end of parenting. There’s no more “just you wait” coming from other parents. My kids and I will teach each other how to be a parent and how to be a teen in 2022. Happy birthday, Emma and Kate!
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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