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CONTENTS
THE LIST 9 BACK TO IT
WHO WHAT WHERE 12 JON MCCRAW
BE WELL 14
HPV VACCINE OFFERS PROTECTION AGAINST SOME CANCERS
AROUND TOWN 18
CHASING SUMMER: KC’S END-OF-SUMMER FESTIVALS
DEAR KACIE 22
HOW TO RESPOND TO DIVORCE ANNOUNCEMENTS
FASHION 24 DOG DAYS OF SUMMER
24
40
INFOCUS 30
TOXIN-FREE, ORGANIC, CLEAN: NOT JUST BUZZWORDS, BUT A WAY OF LIFE
BEAUTY 32
THE SURPRISING BENEFITS OF MILK ... BATHS
HEALTH 34 BLOOD DONORS: THE LIFEBLOOD OF THE MEDICAL INDUSTRY
DISH 36
JOHN SANTIAGO OF BROOKSIDE BARRIO
PARENTING 38 THE PARENTAL COVER UP
HOME 40
TRIMMING THE TAB ON GROCERIES AND MORE
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42
GOOD TASTES 42 FIELD & STREAM
BECAUSE I SAID SO 44
TO THE LOW-LIFES WHO KNOW MY VACATION DATES AND PLAN TO ROB MY HOUSE
APP OF THE MONTH 47
CURE YOUR SMARTPHONE ADDICTION AND DO GOOD
7 THINGS 48
7 WAYS TO PREP FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR
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34
HAPPENINGS 50
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
… AND THE LIVIN’S EASY How are you enjoying your final days of summer? Are you stacking your personal days to enjoy the last free weeks with your kids? Squeezing in pool time every evening when you get off work? Grilling and eating dinner nightly in your backyard? (After the sun has gone down, of course.) I’m personally enjoying the final days of summer at baseball tournaments and trying to get a headstart on school-supply shopping. I know the hailstorm that’s about to hit me: a new school year with a kid each in middle and high school, extensive class projects, extracurricular activities, and everything else involved with raising teenagers, all on top of my daily work life. It’s going to be (like always) a lot to manage. Even seconds into this new school year I’m sure I’ll be wistfully daydreaming of summer. That most of the metro’s schools start up in August doesn’t help one bit. But we don’t have to let go of summer quite yet. August — and even September — in Kansas City brings us so many wonderful festivals. We’ve compiled our top five in this month’s Around Town article on page 18. From the Butterfly Festival at Powell Gardens to the new Kansas City Taste exposition at Union Station, we’re sure there’s a festival to please everyone. Here’s hoping you find the perfect way to hold on to that summer feeling. Stay cool out there — and enjoy.
Suzanne Steiner, Publisher
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Photo by Jenny Wheat
THE LIST
Words by Vanessa Zambo / Photos by Adrienne Maples
Back to It These local shops help you find all the looks that make the grade no matter what age — plus all the gear to complete the look. It’s back-to-school time.
1.
2.
3.
8.
4.
5.
6. 7.
1. Necklace ($26) & navy hair bow ($8), The Little House, 2808 W. 53rd St., Fairway, littlehousekids.com 2. “I Love You More” book ($12), Lauren Alexandra World, 322 W. 63rd St., KCMO, laurenalexandraworld.com 3. Green shirt ($38) & navy checked shorts ($40), The Little House, 2808 W. 53rd St., Fairway, littlehousekids.com 4. Navy sneakers ($45), The Little House, 2808 W. 53rd St., Fairway, KS, littlehousekids.com 5. Moccasin ($52 to $69), Lauren Alexandra World, 322 W. 63rd St., KCMO, laurenalexandraworld.com 6. Backpacks ($39.50) & lunchboxes ($22.50), Pottery Barn Kids, 5208 W. 119th St., #2105, Leawood, potterybarnkids.com 7. Blue shoes ($26), The Little House, 2808 W. 53rd St., Fairway, littlehousekids.com 8. Poncho ($90), Lauren Alexandra World, 322 W. 63rd St., KCMO, laurenalexandraworld.com Vanessa Zambo, senior vice president for Terracon, a national engineering firm, has taken her executive experience into the creation of a workwear fashion and business blog called STOMP (stompatwork.com). Her last 20 years have included numerous national awards in marketing, speaking events across the country, guest speaking on podcasts and TV, experiences studying and traveling abroad, and a love for all things KC.
SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 9
PUBLISHER Suzanne Steiner suz@simplykcmag.com MANAGING EDITOR Ashley Puderbaugh PHOTOGRAPHY Adrienne Maples of Adrienne Maples PhotoStudios Brynn Burns Photography Jenny Wheat of Wheat Photography Samantha Levi of Samantha Levi Photography Jami Marshall of Electric Imagez Jamie Squire of Jamie Squire Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julie Burton, Ann E. Butenas, Brennan Hallock, Bridget Mason Hess, Melanie McDowell, Marjon Monfared, Deborah Eakin Osborne, Gina Reardon, Vanessa Zambo ART DIRECTOR Julie Faerman ADVERTISING Brandy Barrish, Sales Manager 816.223.9395, brandy@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 Adrienne Maples, 913.549.3335, amaples.com, @amaplesphoto MODEL Hannah Smith with Exposure Model and Talent Agency, 8400 W. 110th, Overland Park, KS, 913.317.8801, exposureinc.co, @exposuremodeltalentagency WARDROBE Modern Society Apparel, 5040 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS, 913.291.0199, modernsocietyapparel.com, @shopmodernsociety HAIR & MAKEUP Amanada Pogue, Master Stylist and Makeup Artist, Studio A Salon (inside Sola Salon), 11708 W. 95th St., #102, Overland Park, KS, stuidio-a-salon.com, @studioasalonkc SHOT ON LOCATION The Exchange inside Lead Bank CORRECTIONS Correction to July’s issue: We apologize for the errors in Timothy Weber’s article. Stephanie’s name was misspelled. In the article about Jan Schoonover, Jami Marshall should have been given photography credit.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE IMAGE PHOTO Jenny Wheat, Wheat Photography, 115 W. 18th St., #200, Kansas City, MO, 816.695.9542, @wheatphotography WARDROBE Standard Style, 451 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO, 913.685.4464 HAIR Katie Zehel, Oliver’s Hair Salon, Rosana Square, 7590 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS, 913.338.2266, @olivershairsalon MAKEUP Jami Roth, @mua_jamiroth
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.
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WHAT, WHERE Meet Jon McGraw Who:
What:
JON MCGRAW In his role as president of Buttonwood Financial Group, Jon McGraw is laser-focused on the financial success of his clientele: about 340 multigenerational families. He and his team serve in the role of a family CFO: coordinating tax, insurance, estate, cash flow, investment, and charitable legacy strategies. Jon’s deep passion for his community and the performing arts can be seen in his nonprofit leadership roles, including Kansas City Jazz ALIVE. Now in its fifth year, Jazz ALIVE’s “Charlie Parker Celebration” showcases more than 30 events at 15 venues over a 10-day period. This year the festival takes place Aug. 16 to 25. Find all the details online at charlieparkercelebration.org.
Where:
FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT IN KC
We are blessed to have such amazing chefs and restaurants here. My wife, Wendy, and I regularly can be found at any one of a number of locally owned, 20-table-or-smaller venues. These include Osteria IlCentro in South Plaza, Ragazza and Pot Pie in Westport, Café Europa in Crestwood and Union Hill, Bella Napoli in Brookside, and more.
FAVORITE PLACE TO DRINK IN KC
There’s nothing better than a cocktail in a club with live jazz! I’m a fan of the quieter “listening room” than the energetic clubs, so jazz venues like Black Dolphin in the Crossroads, Chaz on the Plaza, and the Blue Room at 18th and Vine make for a perfect escape.
FAVORITE SHOPPING IN KC
I’m a foodie, so shopping at Ambrosi Brothers in Union Hill, Pryde’s in Westport, or Sir La Table on the Plaza is a fun, treasure-filled adventure.
FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS IN KC
While many of us have enjoyed a great cup of coffee at the Westport Coffee House, Tom and Pam Ptacek truly have a hidden gem in their theater and recording studio located underneath the coffee shop. With comedy improv and live jazz on its calendar, this is one of the spots to visit if you haven’t been.
FAVORITE PLACES TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS
In the KC treasure trove of trophy properties, I believe the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts is one of the most unique and beautiful structures rounding out our skyline. When Wendy and I know guests are coming, we often check the event calendar at the Kauffman Center.
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and
or
BE WELL
Words by Marjon Monfared, MD
HPV VACCINE OFFERS PROTECTION AGAINST SOME CANCERS
through bodily fluids, condoms do not provide full protection against HPV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 40 types of HPV exist. The virus is most commonly found in people in their late teens and early 20s. Thankfully, most people who have an HPV infection do not experience symptoms and clear the virus on their own. And, while some types of HPV can affect the skin and cause simple warts, others can lead to cancer of the cervix, genital area, mouth, or throat. We do not always see the full impact HPV has on the human body because it can take up to 25 years to develop cancer after acquiring the infection. Unfortunately, there is no way to predict who will develop cancer after coming into contact with HPV. Although the vaccine does not
August is National Immu-
We are far less familiar with the con-
nization Awareness Month.
nation. Research shows a strong con-
cept of preventing cancer with vacci-
Many of us are familiar with
nection between exposure to some
vaccines that prevent in-
certain cancers, and we now have
fectious diseases that, not
infections and the development of the human papillomavirus vaccine, a cancer preventive vaccine approved
too long ago, caused se-
for use in the United States.
vere illness, disability, and
In recent years, we’ve heard more
death. For example, polio
about HPV, which is a virus many people come into contact with at
is a disease that has been
some point in their lifetime. HPV can
eradicated from the Amer-
tact. Although it can be transmitted
be passed through skin-to-skin con-
icas mostly as a result of
through sexual activity, it also can
widespread vaccination.
Because the virus is not transmitted
be passed through touching alone.
protect against all HPV types, it’s definitely a good way to help reduce your chance of getting cancer should you become infected. Like most vaccines, the HPV vaccine is most effective when given before you come into contact with the virus, which is why the CDC recommends adolescents receive the vaccine starting at 11 or 12 years old. Most physicians recommend the vaccine up to age 26, but it also can be very effective for those in their later 20s and beyond, depending on personal circumstances. Although most people agree that vaccination is important in protecting against serious diseases, not all pa-
continued on page 16
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BE WELL
CONT.
tients get vaccinated. The HPV vaccine
17,300 among men. Cervical cancer
cines can help you and your family
is one that is especially underused.
is the most common HPV-associated
is to speak with your primary care
cancer among women and throat
physician, who can answer questions
Some patients worry about the cost,
cancer is most common among men.
and dispel any myths.
especially for new vaccines, but it is im-
However, the HPV vaccine also offers
portant to know most health insurance
protection against anal, vaginal, vul-
If you are looking to find a primary
companies will cover the cost. After
var, and penile cancers as well.
care physician who is right for you,
all, it is less expensive to pay for the vaccine than treatment for illness.
visit myhealthkc.com. Unlike more traditional vaccinations, parents are sometimes reluctant to
However, a more significant reason
give approval for the HPV vaccine.
why some patients don’t get vacci-
Many feel by agreeing to vaccinate
nated is lack of information about the
their child, they are giving consent
benefits of the vaccine and the risks
for their child to be sexually active.
associated with not receiving it.
It’s important to have open conversa-
The top benefit of the HPV vaccine is its ability to prevent cancer. According to the CDC, HPV is responsible for 41,000 cancer cases in the U.S. each year — 23,700 among women and
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tions with your children regarding this concern while keeping in mind the vaccine is an effective way to protect your child against many cancers. The best way to learn whether vac-
Marjon Monfared, MD, practices family medicine at Shawnee Mission Primary Care – Shawnee Crossings in Shawnee. Photo by Steve Gibson
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AROUND TOWN
Words by Julie Burton
Photo / Kalie Hudson
CHASING SUMMER: KANSAS CITY’S END-OF-SUMMER FESTIVALS The days are getting shorter but Kansas City isn’t quite finished with summer yet. Some of the best — and hottest — days of summer still lay ahead. We found five must-attend end-ofseason festivals in KC, so bring your friends and family outside to chase summer before it’s gone.
JUL 27 – AUG 12 Festival of Butterflies
Powell Gardens, Kingsville, MO powellgardens.org
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Kansas City is a beautiful place — but it’s even more beautiful with butterflies. Visit Powell Gardens to enjoy the annual festival dedicated to these winged pollinators. Walk among locally raised, native butterflies in the flower-filled “Butterfly Breezeway” or journey to the tropics in the conservatory for a close encounter with exotic butterflies. Touch live caterpillars, learn about the life cycle of monarchs, and participate in the “Pollinator Parade.” Take the kids to the daily Butterfly Fashion Show & Kid’s Parade at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. or check out the Kid’s Winged Creatures Show & Tell at 3 p.m on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Photo / Bre Wasinger
Photo / Bre Wasinger
The Festival of Butterflies focuses on community partnerships, education about the importance of plants and pollinators in our ecosystems, and the beauty and grace of the butterfly.
AUG 3–4 Kansas City Taste Union Station, KCMO kctaste.com
space, including the new Haverty Family Yards. KC is full of food and beverage talent and this is the one spot to taste it all. Stop by the Chef Showcase where local and nationally renowned chefs will be doing food demonstrations on cooking healthy meals with your kids or how to brew your own beer. Listen to live music by headliners Jo Dee Messina and David Lee Murphy. This family-friendly event also will feature bounce houses and arts and crafts.
Photo / Missouri State Fair
Photo / Missouri State Fair
AUG 9–19 Missouri State Fair The name says it all. It’s KC’s tastiest event, taking place at the historic Union Station. KC Taste is a two-day music, food, liquor, wine, and beer festival promoting Kansas City’s brick-and-mortar establishments. The festival will be held at Union Station’s outdoor
Sedalia, MO mostatefair.com
You’re a part of history when you step on the nearly 400 acres of fairgrounds at the Missouri State Fair. Going on its 116th year, this event in Sedalia is one of the nation’s oldest state fairs. It features several buildings on the National Historic Register.
But the event is not just a history lesson. It’s a great get-away for people of all ages. Carnival rides, shopping vendors, and the food. Corndogs
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AROUND TOWN
CONT.
Photo / Missouri State Fair
and funnel cakes are obvious staples, but Missouri Cattlemen’s Beef House and the Missouri Pork Association Pork Place are definite must-tries. The Missouri State Fair also is a great girlfriend getaway. Ladies, check out the Missouri Wine Tent, then check out one of the headliner concerts in the grandstand. Whiskey Meyers, Hank Williams Jr., and Montgomery Gentry will be performing.
AUG 16–19 & 23–25 KC Improv Festival
The KICK Comedy Theatre, KCMO kcimprovfestival.com This city is serious about being funny. The KC Improv Co. hosts its 18th Kansas City Improv Festival. Headlining this year’s festival are three diverse acts guaranteed to
Photo / Shrew
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make you giggle.
AUG. 17–19
Headliner Kevin McDonald will bring the funny the first weekend and may inspire a little nostalgia with his stories from “Kids in the Hall,” “Lilo & Stitch,” and “Seinfeld.” Be sure to come back the second weekend for the all-women weekend of power — Matt Damon Improv will be ready to slay. These ladies Photo / Kevin McDonald won the People’s Choice Award for Best Improv Group at the 2017 Chicago Women’s Funny Festival. And, finally, the Shakespearean improvisers, Shrew, will enchant you with their iambic pentameter and delightful storytelling.
Ethnic Enrichment Festival
Photo / Matt Damon Improv
Swope Park, KCMO eeckc.net
The front entrance of historic Swope Park is where you’ll feel the world beat — even in the heart of America. More than 60 countries are represented through their native foods, crafts, live music, and dance performances. Think Epcot at Disney World, but bigger and better. It’s one of the largest festivals of its kind in the country. Be sure to arrive hungry. Whether you’re craving a mango lassi from India or a turkey leg from Ireland, a host of food booths will make you feel like the world got transplanted to Swope Park for the weekend. General admission is $5 and children under 12 years old are free.
Photo / Visit KC
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r a e D
KACIE HOW TO RESPOND TO DIVORCE ANNOUNCEMENTS
What are some kind ways to respond to a divorce announcement from (good but not close) friends? For us, it was a total surprise, but it seems rude to point out it wasn’t obvious they were having trouble.
We’ve been told for decades now that about half of all marriages end in divorce, but even then, it’s never easy to figure out what to say. It’s common to view a divorce as a surprise because a lot of people typically don’t mention marital struggles in their lives until it’s totally necessary. There are definitely some things you should try to say — and things you shouldn’t. The easiest response to any such announcement is: “I’m sorry to hear about your divorce.” It’s simple and doesn’t put pressure on the divorcee to explain what happened. Of course, you can always follow this up with letting your friend know you’re there if she ever needs to talk. But don’t try to figure out what happened. It’s really none of your business. You also could reaffirm to your friend how wonderful she is, that she’s got a lot to offer the world, and remind her that it’s OK to do what’s best for her and her family. No matter what you say, be sure to be supportive — and never, ever judgmental — in these situations. You’ll never know the full story, and only the couple will know what is best for their relationship.
If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to our managing editor at: ashley@simplykcmag.com.
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FASHION
s y a D g o D r e m m u of S We’re crossing fingers we’ve got only one more month of sweltering heat, but we’re not quite ready to stop shopping for chic summer outfits like these cute dresses and jumpsuits. The good news? Each piece can take you straight into fall with the addition of a leather or denim jacket. Who says summer has to end?
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913.291.0199
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Photography / Adrienne Maples •
Model / Hannah Smith with Exposure Model and Talent Agency • Hair & Makeup / Amanda Pogue, Master Stylist and Makeup Artist
SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 29
INFOCUS
TOXIN-FREE, ORGANIC, CLEAN: NOT JUST BUZZWORDS, BUT A WAY OF LIFE Words by Ann E. Butenas / Photos by Jami Marshall
Are you tired of purchasing a variety of cosmetics while trying to find the perfect products for you, your lifestyle, and your budget? Are the drawers in your bathroom vanity filled with partially used products you presumably never really got your
“I am so honored to be part of this cultural shift,” she says. “It is a movement created by everyday women who have become more aware of the potentially harmful ingredients found in their daily cosmetics and are seeking a safer alternative. One of the most important things a consumer can be is both conscious of the issues and educated.”
money’s worth out of? Have you ever questioned the ingredients in your products or wished they maintained their staying power throughout the day? Perhaps it’s time for you to explore the exciting world of Crunchi™. These products are not only setting a new standard for cosmetic safety, but they’re ultimately redefining what it means to be beautiful with a line that performs at the highest level. For any of you makeup junkies out there, now is the time to get your Crunchi on. You may be wondering what exactly Crunchi is and how it can benefit you. The answer is simple. “Crunchi is a revolutionary collection of high-performance cosmetics crafted with a combination of safe, certified organic, and EcoCert ingredients,” according to the company. “Crunchi has set a new standard for cosmetic safety and efficacy. We no longer have to compromise our health for our beauty or our beauty for our health.” Local advocate Pam Baker is excited to be a part of this growing company and eager to share it with women who want and deserve something so much better than the beauty products they’re used to buying.
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“One of the most important things a consumer can be is both conscious of the issues and educated.”
What Crunchi is not is a lot of things, including the roughly 1,300 chemicals currently banned in other countries but not in the United States. Crunchi is, however, an opportunity to discover exciting, safe, and clean products that are vegan or vegetarian; toxin-, gluten-, and cruelty-free; consciously packaged; Leaping Bunny-certified; made with safe and certified organic ingredients; as well as USA-made. Crunchi operates as a boutique direct-sales company that purposefully colors outside the standard lines of direct sales by embracing education, integrity, service, and credibility in a socially, environmentally, and health-conscious approach. Crunchi invites women to seek knowledge and become empowered to transform their lives.
“Our products are easy to apply and make you feel as if you have nothing on your face,” Baker says. “Plus, as an advocate, you have the opportunity to network with like-minded women.” One of the first advocates to join this cause was Bonnie Smith, who notes this mission and opportunity actually found her first. After receiving a cancer diagnosis, she realized the importance of choosing products geared toward improving her health and wellness. “I was attracted to the wellness education and focus on disease prevention that was being provided through the Crunchi platform,” Smith says. “I was looking for safer products and was discouraged by what I found. There was clearly a gaping hole in the market space for a clean product that performed like or better than the brands I had been so loyal to for years. As a department store junkie, makeup was the final piece of the puzzle for me on my wellness journey, and I stumbled upon a goldmine. Today, I am so proud to say I’m a full-time working mother in corporate America, a survivor, and also a Crunchi advocate.” All Crunchi advocates embrace poise, grace, and integrity, leading with education at top of mind. Clients receive high-performing cosmetics and a personalized experience that includes education followed by exceptional customer service. Interested in learning more? Contact Pam Baker at 913.444.2723 or visit crunchi.com/pambaker. She will happily schedule a one-on-one consultation to help you discover if Crunchi is right for you.
Pam Baker (at left) and Kay Gonzalez are Crunchi educator advocates in the KC metro.
SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 31
BEAUTY
Words by Deborah Eakin Osborne
THE SURPRISING BENEFITS OF MILK ... BATHS Back in the ’80s, a popular ad campaign sponsored by America’s Daily Farmers and the National Dairy Board proclaimed: “Milk. It does a body good.” The intent was to educate the public about the benefits of drinking milk. Nowadays, some may question the validity of that claim. (But that’s an entirely different story.) Who knew then that milk might “do a body good” — on the outside? Apparently, plenty of people, not the least of which was Cleopatra. The radiant skin and legendary beauty of Ancient Egypt’s last pharaoh were well-known throughout history. In an effort to keep her skin soft and beautiful, Cleopatra was said to have bathed daily in milk that came not
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from cows, but donkeys. Some 700 donkeys, give or take. So what is it about milk that does a body good (at least on the outside)? For starters, milk is full of lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that fights the signs of aging by softening lines, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, exfoliating dead skin cells, and stimulating new cell growth. The fats and proteins, like those found in whole milk, also may help hydrate skin and retain moisture — leaving your skin feeling soft and supple once you’ve stepped out of the tub. Bathing in milk also may relieve the pain of a sunburn as well as the itching and irritation often associated with allergies and skin conditions such as eczema. The milk should be
warm, but not hot. Too high a temperature destroys the beneficial properties of the milk. And be sure to rinse your skin well with clean water after bathing. This not only enhances the effects of the milk but also leaves you with a soft, milky glow rather than a sticky residue. If you feel like splurging, plan an afternoon getaway at The Elms Hotel and Spa in nearby Excelsior Springs to experience its 30-minute milk and honey bath (elmshotelandspa.com). Or, create your own milk bath at home using items found in your kitchen or products crafted specifically for use in the bath.
RELAX AND RENEW Taking a milk bath at the end of the day may not only improve your skin,
but also may help reduce your stress level. Dim the lights, prepare some candles, and play relaxing music while you enjoy the sensation of the milk in the water. Adding honey or an essential oil such as lavender, eucalyptus, chamomile, or peppermint to your milk bath may further enhance your experience. No tub? No problem! Soaking your feet in a basin is a workaround that still enables you to enjoy the benefits of a milk bath on a smaller scale.
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PRETTY AS A PICTURE Not only does a milk bath make your skin look good, but milk bath photography has recently been making quite a splash as well. It first gained popularity with maternity shoots, but the technique is becoming popular with children, babies, mother and baby together, or even in a boudoir setting.
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HEALTH
Words by Brennan Hallock
BLOOD DONORS: THE LIFEBLOOD OF THE MEDICAL INDUSTRY Giving blood is a simple way of making a major impact. We obviously cannot live without it — it flows throughout our bodies and keeps us alive. For the medical industry, blood functions in much the same way. Blood transfusion keeps people living through surgeries and emergencies. But this blood is received from donors. “Hospitals rely on volunteer blood donors. There’s no other source for blood in the treatment of patients,” explains David Graham, executive director of Community Blood Center in
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Kansas City, Missouri. “Whether that’s trauma victims or routine surgeries or cancer treatments, all of it requires blood transfusions.”
cells are in higher demand than platelets, but many cancer patients need platelets as well.
Where does a donation go?
The average donor gives about three pints of blood, but a single caraccident victim can require up to 100 pints. Blood centers work hard collecting as much blood as possible. “About 70% of the blood we collect comes from mobile blood drives,” Graham says.
Most blood donations are used locally. “We supply a little more than 60 hospitals in the Greater Kansas City area,” Graham says. “Most of it is used locally, but occasionally we will send it outside the area. It’s pretty common for blood centers across the country to help each other out in challenging times.” When Hurricane Irma hit Florida and Hurricane Harvey hit Texas, Community Blood Center sent blood to those areas.
How long does a donation last?
How do I give blood?
Blood has a shelf life. “There are multiple components used for transfusion,” he explains, “and the most common is red blood cells, which has a shelf life of 42 days. Another is platelets, which has a shelf life of five days.” Red blood
If giving blood is something that interests you, the good news is that it’s a simple and safe process. Step 1: Screening This involves answering questions as well as having a mini-physical. Blood donation centers
make sure the blood they are receiving is free from potential risks, so you must report your medical history, medications being taken, travel history, and other risk factors. “Everything we — and other centers — do is regulated by the FDA,” Graham explains. “We want to make sure that not only is the blood you donate safe, but that the process is safe for you as well.” Step 2: Donating A donation typically takes about 10 minutes, although certain donations (such as platelets or plasma) can take a couple hours. A trained professional inserts a sterile, single-use needle into your vein, and the blood flows from your vein into a blood bag. Graham says a common myth is that the donation process can put the donor at risk. “That is not the case,” he reassures. “All the materials used, from the needles to the tubes, are single-use, sterile equipment. There’s no risk of catching anything from donating.”
Step 3: Replenishing After donating, it’s important that you eat a snack and have something to drink. Donors are usually kept at the site for about 15 minutes as a precaution, then you’re free to go on your way with the satisfaction of having helped someone.
• Lowered iron levels: The body uses iron to produce red blood cells, but too much of a good thing can be bad. Iron can deposit in your organs and cause them to function abnormally. Giving blood can help your body maintain a healthy level of iron.
Another common myth of donating is that you’ll feel weak after the donation. “You might be a little more tired,” Graham says, “but generally your body recovers fairly quickly if you’re in good health.”
What if I cannot give blood?
What are the health benefits? Giving blood has obvious health benefits for the recipient, but you can benefit from these as well: • Identified potential health problems: The mini-physical and blood analysis might detect a health problem, such as a mild illness, cancer, or heart disease. Catching a major illness early is invaluable in treating it.
If you are ultimately disqualified from giving blood, there are alternatives. “There are a number of things a person can do,” Graham says. “You could organize a blood drive at your work, community, or place of worship. We also have volunteers who help deliver blood to hospitals or pick it up, who help in the office, and who volunteer at mobile blood drives. There are many ways people can get involved, either directly or indirectly.”
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DISH
Words & photos by Melanie McDowell
FROM PUERTO RICO TO KCMO
JOHN SANTIAGO OF BROOKSIDE BARRIO John Santiago was a professor of culinary arts at the Instituto de Banca y Comercio in Puerto Rico, where he was born and raised. About five years ago he ventured to Wichita, Kansas, of all places, to pursue a career in the restaurant industry. Today, he’s executive corporate chef of the new Mexican taqueria-inspired Brookside Barrio.
To this day, whenever I am starving that’s exactly what I try to do — just plain white rice with fried eggs and canned sausage.
Why did you choose Wichita? I did some research and Wichita was a good place to start. It’s cheap and the unemployment level was almost nonexistent, so I knew I was going to be successful. I started work in a Japanese restaurant on the same day I arrived. I stayed there a couple months while I was also a bartender at a gay bar called Jay’s. I then became executive chef at a retirement resort called Reflection Ridge and traveled with that company, helping other chefs to be successful. And, now I’m here!
Are there any particular sweets from Puerto Rico you miss? Oh my goodness, there are so many. We have something called pasta de guayaba, which is guava paste. It’s difficult to find around here. It’s so delicious and we use it in so many things. We can fry it in an empanada, we can use the sauce for ribs. I’ve been missing that lately; I’ve been craving it and can’t find it here. I found it in Wichita, and I’m about to drive three hours just to buy a can of it.
What’s your favorite thing about Kansas City? The people. Puerto Ricans are very outgoing. KC reminds me of Puerto Rico. I can hug anybody here like we do in Puerto Rico, and have many friends, conversations, laughs, and lots of fun. What was your favorite food growing up, and who cooked it? Well, to be honest, in the world of restaurants, culinary arts, and executive chefs, you know we do all this fancy food. But we, well, at least me ... You can see I don’t eat very healthy. My mom doesn’t cook very well and we weren’t wealthy. She did some white rice with just fried egg and some canned sausage. She fried it with butter and put a little bit of ketchup on it, and that was heaven.
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Do you have a go-to cocktail? Plain rum with pineapple juice, and grenadine. Not a splash of grenadine — a LOT of grenadine. I like very sweet stuff.
If you weren’t in this business, what would you be doing? I always wanted to be a doctor or go into pediatric cardiology, but then I decided to do what I love, which was cooking. My family didn’t take my decision well. I had a good GPA and a really good college board and was accepted into several universities, but I chose to be a chef. I love it so far. What’s your favorite part of a busy day? I think it’s how the back of the house, the kitchen for instance, how everyone unifies as a family. I love being a good boss. When everything starts getting busy, instead of fighting with each other we come together as a team and help each other. Coming from Puerto Rico, everyone is family. I just love it. I get chills when I talk about that. I have a really amazing team here.
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PARENTING
Words by Julie Burton
THE PARENTAL COVER UP Welcome to parenting. Have a seat and get uncomfortable. There’s no easy way to talk about nudity in front of your children. But you don’t have to talk about it at all — your kids will barge in your bathroom, shower, closet, and bedroom without saying a word when you’re at your most vulnerable. We asked the experts on this topic — you. Kansas City parents. The responses vary based on gender and each family’s personal comfort level. SIMPLYkc Magazine thanks all the parents for their honest (and humorous) responses. We’re all in parenting together — even if it’s slightly exposed.
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So, when did you start covering up in front of your kids? “ I don’t cover myself up but I am only nude in my master bedroom. If the kids opt to come into my private space, they have to accept what they might encounter. My kids are 9 and 13.” — Courtney Roberts, Shawnee “ My kids are 19 and 11. No one sees me naked — ever — no matter how old. Unless there is tequila. If tequila is involved, I can’t make any promises.” — Whitney Courser, Overland Park “ We have a daughter who is 10 and son who is 13. While we don’t prance around the house naked by any means, and haven’t for years, I’m pretty sure the kids feel like our master bathroom is as public a space in our house as the kitchen.” — Dan Mudge, Overland Park “ My twins are 12 and my singleton is 6. All three are girls. For a while
I was shy but these last few years, I’ve realized I don’t want them to think I’m ashamed of my body. No, I don’t walk around naked 24/7, but I don’t rush to hide if I’ve just gotten out of the shower. I get dressed with my bedroom door wide open. And sometimes for speed, and the sake of my own sanity, I shower with my youngest. I have lived with a lot of body issues most of my life and don’t want my girls learning them from me.” — Erin Best, Fairway “ My boys are 16, 14, and 11. I am the only female in my house. (Even the dogs are male.) I always wondered when my boys would start to notice anything or when I’d feel “weird” around them. My answer came when my first-born was 10. I was in the shower with the door closed. He walked in, saw me, and made a face that looked like he was mentally solving long division. Not a word was spoken between us. But as he completed an about-face turn and walked away, I knew it was time
to use the lock on my door. My husband still walks around without any shame. I love my life and I’ve accepted the fact that I live in a locker room.” — Kasey Johnson, Overland Park
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“ My daughter is 6 and my son is 9. They see my upper body if I’m changing but never down below. My kids like to hit my naked ‘big butt.’ Thanks, kids. I can’t remember when I started covering up but it was probably a long time ago. I’m pretty modest.” — Dena Meuschke, Overland Park “ One time, I put my daughter’s toys in the bathroom so I could shave my face. I wrapped a towel around my waist. I had a razor in one hand and my other hand covered in shaving cream. My daughter thought it was a great idea to pull off my towel. She fell and the towel covered her head and I panicked. I ran to the bedroom so I could grab some shorts. I was covered in shaving cream. My daughter was covered in shaving cream and I was embarrassed. I don’t know why, but I was. I will never get naked in front of her again. I think a lot of it has to do with gender. She’s a girl and that makes me feel uncomfortable.” — Max Passler, Grain Valley “ My children are 10 and 3. I’m a stay-at-home mom and my daughter follows me everywhere, so she definitely sees me shower, use the bathroom, or take baths. I take a lot of baths. My 10-year-old son sees me in the bath if he comes to say good night. It may seem weird, but he’s never looked at me in a curious way or asked questions about my body. I know we’ll get to that point someday and when we do, I’ll insist on privacy. Both my kids never see my husband naked. My son may have if they’ve gone camping or changed after swimming. It’s not often though.” — Jay Hicks, Lee’s Summit
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“ Our 2-year-old son isn’t mature enough to inquire, but our 3-year-old little lady is wise beyond her years. She’s had many open queries surrounding anatomy. We use discretion where capable but have no bathroom door to our main showering facility. My husband and I have both seen the wide-eyed wonder response to the ‘full monty.’” — Amie Pluff, Spring Hill “ Based on enough close calls, my heightened ability to hear evolved as the kids became mobile. Even the faintest sound of footsteps in the distance elicited the signal word ‘privacy’ to the kids from an early age. The effectiveness of the signal word increased dramatically after their human growth and development lessons began in fourth and fifth grades. We’re forthright about the human body with our kids but we are also clear about honoring our bodies, boundaries, and respecting the privacy of one another.” — Kelly Ulmer, Olathe “ I still don’t cover up in front of our 6-year-old son. I imagine I started covering up when my daughter was about 7 and my older boys were 10. My wife and I are pretty open about it. Although, my wife is starting to cover up a little more. I think it’s based on gender. Dads tend to cover up earlier around girls and moms tend to cover up earlier around boys.” — Jeff Johnson, Overland Park
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SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 39
HOME
Words by Bridget Mason Hess
I set out to learn more about the coupon craze and also gather general money-saving tips. There are oodles of couponing websites, such as couponmom.com and thekrazycou ponlady.com. And, contrary to my preconceived notion that extreme couponers only hoard dozens of toothpaste tubes and canned soup, both sites emphasize finding ways to save on items your family truly uses. Then I thought: What better way to collect general advice than from friends? So I took an informal poll among 21 local buddies about their coupon and shopping habits. Most of the respondents fell into the category of using coupons occasionally, with a few being very frequent users and a few almost never using them. My focus was on grocery shopping, as that tends to be what we do most often, but my friends also look for savings on personal items, restaurants, entertainment, and retail. I found that my pals shop at a wide variety of stores, and also that most of them frequent at least two different stores during each week — not only because they ran out of something but also because they are looking for good deals and favorite items at different places. (I can relate!)
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TRIMMING THE TAB ON GROCERIES AND MORE
I’m excited to share the tips I gathered. Some of these you may do already, but I hope, like me, you’ll find a new idea or two that will help trim your spending:
Do you coupon? I admit I’m not great at using coupons. Oh, I clip some — I often just forget to use them. I’ve found that for what I buy the most, there don’t seem to be many coupons available, so I am always on the lookout for other ways to get more for my family’s dollar on those items.
Price compare. Hint: Keep a list
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I’m intrigued by the “extreme couponers” and bargain hunters who can roll an overflowing cart out of the grocery store for $38 or score a big-ticket item at a fraction of its price. It leaves me wondering ... How can we all be more strategic shoppers and stretch our dollar further?
on your phone or other handy place listing how much your favorite items cost at specific stores.
Buy the store brand when you can. Unless the name brand is on sale for less.
Visit your favorite stores’ websites to look for coupons. This
is a good way to find savings not listed in newspaper ads or mailers.
Hold on to coupons until the item is at a store’s best price point. Coupon gurus will tell you tim-
that were put into the cart on impulse before getting to the checkout line. In other words, if it wasn’t on your list, don’t buy it.
ably priced and also supports regional farmers and businesses. Or grow your own.
Keep coupons in your purse or car so you don’t forget them.
Use your freezer! Your icebox is a
Stock up on items. Buy products
will help you know what to buy and use what you have.
you know you’ll use that have a long shelf life — or that you can freeze — when they hit their lowest price points.
good way to keep food bought in bulk when it was on sale or anything that may expire before it is used. My friend Dana also does a great job of tripling recipes when she makes anything — from pancakes to chicken stock — and storing them in the freezer in one-timeuse quantities, maximizing her money and time.
Buy in-season, local, or regional foods. While you won’t find many
Don’t forget restaurant and retail deals too. Taking advantage
ing is key. For example, when you have a coupon for 50 cents off a cereal, don’t buy it the week that cereal is at its regular price; instead wait until the store runs a special so you can combine the two cost savings and pay much less.
Make a list ahead of time and stick to it. My friend Haley, who considers herself an extreme couponer, suggests removing all but two items
Couponing experts recommend gathering coupons in a binder and organizing them by store and type of item.
Plan meals ahead of time. This
coupons for fresh fruits and vegetables, you can still save on these items. Produce is usually cheaper if it doesn’t need to travel. Shop at a farmer’s market for wholesome food that is typically reason-
of “kids eat free” nights and timing retail purchases with sales, closeouts, and free shipping incentives are all worthwhile cost savings.
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GOOD TASTES
Words by Gina Reardon / Photo by Melanie McDowell
Field & Stream My dad tells wild stories of his youth: three brothers mostly unsupervised during the summer months by busy blue-collar parents. One tale is all about the daring escapades of robbing the farmers’ cornfields, pillaging the ears from the cornstalks and eating them raw, in the field. Corn on the cob is one of our family favorites, and I’m always on the lookout for recipes using farm-fresh corn, crisp and sweet, paired with other gifts of summer. Here is that perfect dish — a gratin of fresh corn baked in a simple custard, topped with fresh ripe tomatoes and a chiffonade of basil that gives this dish the “wow” factor. I served it to Dad recently with grilled salmon brushed with barbecue sauce. He loved it ... and I think it cemented my place as his favorite daughter. Enjoy!
Summer Corn & Tomato Gratin Serves 6
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
2 tablespoons olive oil 1-1/2 cups chopped onions 5 to 6 cups fresh corn, cut off approximately 7 to 8 ears 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1-1/2 teaspoons salt 3/4 teaspoon fresh ground or coarse ground pepper 2-1/2 cups half-and-half 3 large eggs 2 large egg whites 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce 2 cups diced, seeded fresh tomatoes, drained 1/2 cup basil chiffonade*
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat the olive oil in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add corn kernels and sauté until they are bright yellow, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the ground nutmeg. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cool. Spray a 2-quart glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick vegetable oil. Combine half-and-half, eggs, egg whites, and hot pepper sauce in a large bowl and whisk to blend. Stir the corn mixture into the custard. Pour into a prepared dish. Bake until the custard is set, about 30 minutes. Remove the gratin from your oven. Season tomatoes with salt and pepper, then sprinkle the tomatoes evenly over the gratin. Bake until the tomatoes are heated and bright, about 5 to 6 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the dish with fresh basil. Do ahead: Bake the corn gratin until done and let it rest. When you’re ready to serve, gently rewarm the gratin, top with tomatoes, bake about 5 to 6 minutes more, and top with basil. *Basil chiffonade: Stack the basil leaves neatly. Roll them tightly. Using a sharp knife, slice crosswise as thin as you can.
Gina Reardon, 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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BECAUSE I SAID SO ...
TO THE LOW-LIFES WHO KNOW MY VACATION DATES AND PLAN TO ROB MY HOUSE They say you should never announce when you’re on vacation on social media because you’re making it easier for intruders to enter your home without getting caught. Your house could get robbed. And, to that I say — and steal what?
Dear Intruder: Scott and I are out of town fishing again. You know this because I posted a picture of myself holding a fish you can’t find in Kansas. I hope you’re smart enough to realize we spent all our money on plane tickets.
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Words by Julie Burton | Photo by Samantha Levi
I let our neighbors know when we’re out of town. You’re being watched. Whoops! Did you get dog poop on your shoe while crossing our yard? I meant to pick that up before we left. Our neighbors are laughing at you from their windows. Congratulations, you got in! The security alarm is going off. Better go fast. What’s first on your list? Small electronic devices with an Apple logo on them? Nope, we have all those with us. They’re entertaining our kids so Scott and I don’t have to. We also have our laptops, cameras, and GoPros. How else would the fish appear on social media? What else is a hot item? Jewelry to pawn? Master bathroom. I have a small collection of Charming Charlie’s jewelry from the clearance rack. I love a good deal. The only piece of jewelry of any value is on my finger. And I hope it’s not attracting barracudas while I float in the ocean with a beer in hand. You’re kinda like a barracuda, yourself. Did you know I catch barracudas, chop them up, and use them as bait? Scott did lose his wedding ring. If you can find that,
it’s all yours, man. We spent weeks looking for it. Could you leave me a note saying where you found it, though? I’m just curious. Kid room. Nothing. Another kid room. Nothing.
they still make those. We won’t give it up until it blows up. You should leave now. You’ve tracked dog poop all over my house and I’m annoyed I’ll have to scrub like Cinderella when I get home. Here come the cops. Wave to the neighbors. Don’t forget your bag of toys.
Is the alarm annoying you yet? Guest room? Nope. It’s a playroom. A playroom where a bomb exploded pink glitter and naked Barbies. The girls left earrings on the floor to keep me from entering and throwing out old toys because they’re geniuses. You probably won’t notice the earrings because you’re wearing shoes. Shoes with dog poop still caked to the bottom. Please — take the toys. Take them all. Now what? Art on the walls? Decorative pieces in the house? Sorry. I told you. I spend money on vacations. The house isn’t even clean because I spent my time typing this letter to you. The cops are on their way. The neighbors are setting up their lawn chairs with bowls of popcorn in hand. They hear sirens. It’s about to get good in the ’hood.
Best, Julie
Julie Burton is an Overland Park mom, wife, writer, outdoorswoman by marriage, 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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1 S tock up on cards for birthdays and special occasions. Store them — along with stamps — in an accordion file to keep handy.
2 Put bedtime battles to rest now. Slowly adjust a lax summer sleep schedule to the school-night bedtime over a week or two.
3 S hop your closets. Before you head to the stores,
are there any new or barely used school supplies or clothing? Maybe an old backpack that is trendy again?
4 C onsider rearranging your schedule so you can volunteer your time or expertise. Dozens of studies have shown that children whose parents are involved in their schools do better academically and socially.
5 Institute a quiet hour every weeknight.
Encourage your kids to spend this hour winding down without electronics. They can read, play together, or hang out in their rooms. This wind-down period will also help them get a better night’s rest.
6 C reate a homework station. Add everything
your kids will need, such as pencils, erasers, sharpeners, highlighters, lined or graph paper, and a trash can. Put the station near a window for natural light. And consider location — many people, kids included, prefer not to have their backs to the door.
7 Book babysitters now. They’ll likely be in demand when your school’s parents night and other school events come around.
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HAPPENINGS
JUL 1 – AUG 12 Festival of Butterflies Powell Gardens, 1609 N.W. U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO 816.697.2600 / powellgardens.org AUG 1–5 Wizard of Oz Providence Medical Center Amphitheater, 633 N 130th St, Bonner Springs, KS 800.745.3000 / wizardofozkc.com 6:30 pm AUG 2 Bike Night: Outlaw Jim & The Whiskey Benders Worth Harley-Davidson®, 9400 NW Prairie View Rd, KCMO 816.420.9000 / worthharley-davidson 6–9 pm AUG 2–5 Oz Comes to Kansas National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, 630 N 126th St, Bonner Springs, KS aghalloffame.com/oz-comes-to-kansas 2–6 pm Thursday, 10 am–6 pm Friday– Saturday, noon–6 pm Sunday AUG 3 Kite Workshop and Fun Fly Helzberg Auditorium, KC Public Library Central Library, 14 W 10th St, KCMO kcparks.org/event/kite-workshop-funfly-2 5–7 pm AUG 3 1st Friday in the Crossroads kccrossroads.org/first-fridays 5–9 pm
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9 am–5 pm Friday–Saturday AUG 3–11 High School Musical 1 & 2 Theatre in the Park, 7710 Renner Rd, Shawnee, KS 913.826.3012 / theatreinthepark.org 7 pm
AUG 9–19 Missouri State Fair 2503 W 16th St, Sedalia, MO 800.422.3247 / mostatefair.com
AUG 4 Third Annual Run for the Raptors Lakeside Nature Center, 4701 E Gregory Blvd, KCMO 816.513.8960 / lakesidenaturecenter.org 7:30 am
AUG 9–26 The Producers Musical Theater Heritage, Crown Center Shops, 2450 Grand Blvd, KCMO 816.221.6987 / musicaltheaterheritage. com 7 pm Wednesday–Thursday, 8 pm Friday– Saturday, 2 pm Sunday
AUG 4 The Centennial of World War I National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial, 2 Memorial Dr, KCMO my.theworldwar.org / 336/348 10:30 am AUG 4 Red Cross Blood Drive Tamashii Black Belt Academy, 3680 NE Akin Drive, Ste 130, Lees Summit, MO redcrossblood.org Noon–5 pm AUG 4–5 Dog Days of Summer Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 10 am–3 pm AUG 4–5 Cheetah Run Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 10:30–10:45 am
AUG 3–4 Kansas City Taste Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd, KCMO 816.753.4000 / kctaste.com 4–10 pm Friday, 10 am–10 pm Sunday
AUG 5 Art of the Machine: Mid-America Falcon Club The City Market, 20 E 5th St, KCMO 816.842.1271 / thecitymarket.org 10 am–2 pm
AUG 3–5 West Bottoms First Festival Weekend 12th Street Bridge, KCMO westbottoms.com
AUG 9 Red Cross Blood Drive Trade Net Publishing, 1200 Energy Center Dr, Gardner, KS
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redcrossblood.org 3–7 pm
AUG 9 Feast of Fountains: Food Truck Festival The Northland Fountain in Anita B. Gorman Park, KCMO kcparks.org/event/feast-fountains-gorman 5:30–7:30 pm AUG 10 Red Cross Blood Drive JoCoLibrary Central Resource Center, 9875 W 87th St, OPKS redcrossblood.org 10 am–3 pm AUG 10 Silver Screen on the Sand Wonder Longview Lake Beach, 11101 Raytown Rd, KCMO 816.503.4805 / jacksongov.org 7:30 pm AUG 11–12 Zootastik Learning Fest-Elephants Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 10 am–3 pm AUG 11–12 Elephant Baths Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 1–1:30 pm AUG 14 Red Cross Blood Drive Town Center Plaza, 5000 W 119th,
HAPPENINGS
Leawood, KS redcrossblood.org 3–7 pm AUG 14–19 Love Never Dies Starlight Theatre, 4600 Starlight Rd, KCMO 816.363.7827 / kcstarlight.com 7 pm AUG 15 Red Cross Blood Drive Spring Hill Community Center, 613 S Race St, Spring Hill, KS redcrossblood.org 2–6 pm AUG 15 Bark at the Park Kauffman Stadium, 1 Royal Way, KCMO mlb.com/royals/tickets/specials/bark-atthe-park 5:30 pm AUG 16–19 H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine Central Standard Theatre at The Warwick, 3927 Main, KCMO 816.635.0543 / cstkc.com 7:30 pm Thursday–Saturday, 2 pm Sunday AUG 16–19 KC Improv Festival The KICK Comedy Theatre, KCMO kcimprovfestival.com AUG 16–25 Charlie Parker Celebration: A City-Wide Celebration of KC Jazz 18th & Vine District, KCMO 816.513.0702 / charlieparkercelebration. org AUG 17–19 39th Annual Ethnic Enrichment Festival Swope Park, KCMO 816.513.7553 / eeckc.net/events/ ethnic-enrichment-festival 5–10 pm Friday, 11 am–10 pm Saturday, 11 am–6 pm Sunday
AUG 18 Rock, Roll & Run 5K Providence Medical Center Amphitheater, 633 N 130th St, Bonner Springs, KS providenceamp.com 8 am AUG 18 K-9s at the Cove Splash Cove Shawnee Pool, 5800 King St, Shawnee, KS 913.631.5200 / recreateshawnee.org 8:15 am dogs over 35 lbs, 9:15 am dogs under 35 lbs, 10:15am dogs of all weights can swim. Registration required.
AUG 24 KC Critical Mass Bicycle Ride Sunfresh Market, 4001 Mill St, KCMO kccriticalmass.com 6:30 pm AUG 25 Fountain City Roller Derby Women’s & Coed Game 4 B&D Skating Rink, 13903 E Noland Ct, Independence, MO fountaincityrollerderby.com 6 pm
AUG 18–19 Melon Summer Smash Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 9 am–4 pm
AUG 25–26 The Centennial of World War I, Day in the Life: Living the Great War National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial, 2 Memorial Dr, KCMO theworldwar.org 10 am–5 pm
AUG 18–19 Cheetah Run Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 10:30–10:45 am
AUG 25–26 Species Spotlight: Marsupials Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 10–10:30am
AUG 18–19 VegFest Kansas City 2018 The City Market, 20 E 5th St, KCMO veglifekc.org 9 am–5 pm
AUG 25–26 Humboldt Penguin March Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 11–11:15 am
AUG 20 Ensemble Iberica: A Night in Havana Musical Theater Heritage, Crown Center Shops, 2450 Grand Blvd, KCMO 816.221.6987 / musicaltheaterheritage. com 7:30 pm
AUG 26 Volunteer Open House Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.595.1234 / kansascityzoo.org/events 1–2 pm
AUG 23–26 KC Improv Festival The KICK Comedy Theatre, KCMO kcimprovfestival.com
AUG 26 Tour de Shawnee Bike Ride Power Play Family Entertainment Center, 13110 W 62nd Ter, Shawnee, KS 913.631.5200 / kansascyclist.com/ events/tourdeshawnee.html 7:30–11:30 am
AUG 23 – SEP 2 The Bridges of Madison County The Arts Asylum, 1000 E 9th St, KCMO thebarnplayers.org 7:30 pm Thursday–Saturday, 2 pm Sunday
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