Chef ’ in her future. Watching her grow into such a strong, faithful lady with an amazing work ethic has been such a blessing.” “It’s sometimes hard to fathom what Kati was like a few years ago, especially the girl that could not play basketball anymore due to concussions,” Keith Beatty added. “She found new avenues to express herself. When she did practice cutting or even fabricating a chicken, it was fun to watch the intensity. She has made us so proud to see how much she has grown. “Over the years Kati has been very determined, and finding a passion is something most people never find. Some pick careers because of money, some because it’s easy, but they are never really happy. When Kati calls home and complains she only got to work 10 hours on a given day and was hoping for 13, I know she has found her true passion.” REACHING FOR THE STARS No matter what’s written in the stars for Kati Beatty, whether she joins the ranks of famous chefs such as Julia Child, Rachael Ray and Paula Deen, Beatty will always remember her Kansas roots. “You can take the girl out of Kansas, but never Kansas out of the girl,” she said. “I am incredibly blessed with the way I grew up and I wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s hard as heck being away from home. Kansas is one of those states that people make fun of due to the fact there is nothing to do, but I miss it so much. I miss having my family and friends nearby. I miss going anywhere and knowing someone. I miss the stars 18 | EMPORIA LIVING
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— oh my, the stars. I miss my country cruises and my nights hanging out by the bonfire. Kansas will always be my home.” For now, Beatty knows the sacrifices she makes will one day lead to the ultimate success of achieving her life’s goals. “If you know me, it will come as no shock when I walk into a kitchen I assume authority, and most the time it is not denied,” she said. “My job is stressful and hard because of the long days. There are days when I feel dead — like a zombie — but never a day goes by that I don’t leave loving what I do. It may be hard now, but I know in the end, it will all be worth it. “I believe there is a quote that says, ‘The day I lose my passion is the day I quit,’ and I absolutely love that quote because I am not doing this for the money. If you are a cook, you understand. I do this because of the joy it brings people. The Broadmoor makes people happy and we make a change for people. I love what I do and where I’m at because it makes everything worth it. I say I have played this game of life pretty well so far, but I would be nothing without the help of everyone I have met along this incredible journey.” — Written by Mary Ann Redeker.