IN Kansas City June 2025

MEN’S ISSUE

MARCO BICEGO

TIVOL

SINCE 1910

A full-service, in-house construction and design team: Ross offers both construction and design services under her supervision which significantl impacts the client experience for the better.

Impeccable attention to detail: Like the show-stopping interiors she creates, Ross understands the art of details and will bring the smallest of project elements to new heights.

The embodiment of luxury: When infusing luxury into a home remodeling project, Ross looks beyond price tags and instead embraces not only what luxury is, but how it makes a client feel.

You’ve likely spent more time than ever in your home during the last few weeks. Perhaps now you have valuable insight into what your home might be lacking or how you can make your interior space better. Now is the time for beauty and functionality.

Invest where it counts: When you work with a kitchen and bath designer it can save you time—and money, not to mention stress.

The art of trend-setting: Ross isn’t shy about crediting her Western European heritage for helping her cultivate a keen eye for interior trends. “I set the trends; I don’t follow them,” she says

EARLY SUMMER

FINE FURNITURE EVENT

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Your home should be a reflection of your personal style.

During Seville Home’s Early Summer Fine Furniture Event, it’s never been easier to transform your personal spaces into fabulous retreats . . . and enjoy up to 45% OFF.

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Kimberly Karen Becky Carrie Meredith

Your Seville Home Designers

Paulene Kelly

__BRANDS

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56 IN CONVERSATION WITH DAHUANG & SHANZUO ZHOUSHI

The Zhou Brothers discuss what brought them to Kansas City to launch the Zhou B Art Center, the influences on their art, and their 50 years of collaboration.

60 PICTURE PERFECT

Snap up a Dad’s Day present with great giftables from local businesses.

Whether sky-high or next to the street, Kansas City’s plethora of pleasant patios are a great place to party.

Both designer and client mined their roots for a home renovation.

On the cover Prep style is back, as seen in this menswear look from Newton James. See more in Look on page 42. Photo by Aaron Leimkuehler

Lessons from My Father

As always, the June issue is dedicated to the men in our life. Fathers, husbands, lovers, brothers, sons, or just good friends, the men in our life deserve some special recognition.

The very first man in my life, my father, was both a stern taskmaster and a real softie. He was so young when I was born—just 20, only a few years away from being a child himself—that he and I learned how to have a father and child relationship simultaneously. (To my younger brothers—you’re welcome!)

Growing up, I tremendously resented the fact of life that as a farm kid, my summer days were filled with chores and duties. Unlike my friends who lived in town, my school vacations consisted of tasks like driving the tractor pulling the hay baler around the field as my father lifted the hefty, squat bales from the chute and stacked them in the hay wagon as I drove back to the barn (at the age of 12!), or washing the milk machines after each morning and evening milking. There was still plenty of time for exploration and swimming lessons and all sorts of kid adventures, but I did have work to do.

Only on reflection, from this distance and this time in my life, years after my father has passed away, do I realize how extraordinarily special this was. I was spending this time with my father, working side by side, learning life lessons about hard work and success by the experience of it. He respected me enough to be a contributor to our family and fully expected me at that young age to do my job and do it well.

It may seem a stretch to make a connection to that family farm to the work I do now, but it is there.

My father taught me to do only the best I can do, and that it always requires hard work to do it. So, I’d better be doing something I love, and to love it as much as he did our family farm.

It took a while for that lesson to sink in. I struggled with different careers—as a graphic designer, an art director, an interior designer, an advertising director (and a few other choices not worth mentioning).

It’s my great joy that my father lived to see my success as a magazine editor, and that he was thrilled to see how much happiness my work gives me. A lesson learned late is better than a lesson learned not at all.

Thanks, Dad.

Vol. 8 | No. 6

JUNE 2025

Editor In Chief Zim Loy

Digital Editor Evan Pagano

Art Director Alice Govert Bryan

Contributing Writers

Judith Fertig, Merrily Jackson, Cindy Hoedel, Damian Lair, Patricia O’Dell, Jenny Vergara

Contributing Photographers

Allison Bush-Kingsley, Bridget Chang, Aaron Leimkuehler

Publisher Michelle Jolles

Media Director Brittany Coale

Senior Media Consultants

Katie Delzer, Nicole Kube, Krista Markley, Josie Rawlings

Intern Annie Woodson

Newsstand Consultant

Joe J. Luca, JK Associates 816-213-4101, jkassoc .net

Editorial Questions: zloy@inkansascity.com

Advertising Questions: bcoale@inkansascity.com

Distribution Questions: mjolles@inkansascity.com

Magazine Subscriptions:

Mail: IN Kansas City Subscriptions PO Box 292374, Kettering, OH 45429 Phone: 888-881-5861

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Meet us at the drive-in. You’ve probably seen Boulevard Drive-In Theatre near I-435 in Kansas City, Kansas, but have you been? Turns out, a gravel lot, an FM radio, and a soaring screen are all it takes for a memorable night. We drove in and wrote about our experience on inkansascity.com

food city. Where those two qualities meet, magic happens. To help you get the most out of game day, we broke down the culinary offerings at all of KC’s major stadiums on inkansascity.com.

This month, Mission Farms is giving one lucky IN Kansas City reader a $100 gift card valid at all their stores and restaurants. It’s super quick to put your name in the hat—just enter to win at inkansascity.com/the-magazine/enter-to-win by June 30. Best of luck!

A Midwestern mosaic. Festa Italiana, Island Fest 816, Kansas City Greek Festival— that’s just a pinch from the blend of festivals celebrating Kansas City’s many cultures. We list as many cultural festivals as we could find on inkansascity.com

This Month IN KC

June

WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AND WHAT YOU NEED TO SEE

by Evan Pagano

KC PrideFest

June 6-8

Theis Park kcpride.org

A golden celebration! KC PrideFest celebrates its golden anniversary in 2025— that’s 50 years of providing KC’s LGBTQ+ community with a safe place to gather and be proud. The festival features art, performances, self-care booths, and a whole lot more. Tickets start at $5. Catch the parade, which leaves for Theis Park from the corner of Westport and Broadway, on June 7.

Boulevardia

June 14

Crown Center boulevardia.com

Beats and brews. Boulevardia, the massive music and brew festival in Crown Center, has a 136-act, 42-brewery lineup in 2025. Musical acts range from DJ On10 to The Zeroes, from the Back Alley Brass Band to The Creepy Jingles—and of course, Tech N9ne. The Taps & Tastes event, which is an upcharge to general admission, includes breweries from our backyard to Belgium.

Heart of America Shakespeare Festival

June 17-July 6

Southmoreland Park kcshakes.org

The Bard under the stars. The Heart of America Shakespeare Festival is one of our favorite events, period. Every year, the actors conjure a new reality at dusk in the stone-and-grass confines of Southmoreland Park. Somehow, they tune your ear to the sashaying Shakespearian language like it’s the tongue you grew up with. Bring a blanket, grab a ticket and a crepe, and let it take you away. This year’s production is Love’s Labour’s Lost.

JUNE SPOTLIGHT

Barbecue Festivities

Various dates and locations

It’s barbecue season, baby. Summer means plumes of pit smoke over Kansas City and satisfied stomachs on the ground.

On June 11, join former Chiefs tackle Mitchell Schwartz at The Abbott for ‘Que For a Cause. It’s a ticketed charity event where Chiefs legends and active players serve you barbecue. Tough sell, we know. It raises money for local animal charities and Make-A-Wish Missouri & Kansas. Chiefs center Creed Humphrey is this year’s co-host, and previous years have seen Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes working the tongs.

Come June 27, head to Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park for the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle, a barbecue competition that draws 200 teams and even more hungry Kansas Citians each year. For $5—or for free if you’re 12 or under—you can enjoy live music, food vendors, kids activities aplenty, and the aroma of championship barbecue. The next day is mostly for the competitors, but there will still be one food vendor (and free smells) in the park.

For Kansas City’s most comprehensive calendar of events, go to inkansascity.com/events

tech

n9ne

photo by darryl woods

moc.yrlewejm.ww

by Merrily Jackson mjackson@inkansascity.com

Wisdom from My Backyard Deck

Some of my most misty-eyed memories are of parties my husband and I hosted on our backyard deck. Now it is just my backyard deck; I lost Jimmy to Parkinson’s two years ago. It makes me happy to think how much he enjoyed those gatherings. (He would, of course, be the first to admit he did little to help bring them off.) I am using a discussion of my deck as a way to inspire you to host friends in your own outdoor space.

A place to sip and gab. In nice weather we used the deck for afterwork happy hours, cocktail parties, spontaneous drinks with friends, neighborhood gatherings, the occasional committee meeting, drinks and dessert parties, and book club meetings, mine and his. In cold weather, it was a refuge for guests wanting to sneak a cig. I’m not sure why I’m writing in the past tense. I do still use the deck, just not as much.

You don’t need fancy. The deck is humble by new-home standards. No pool, outdoor kitchen, or modular furniture. But it’s highly functional for parties, with built-in benches, useful at larger gatherings. For smaller, more frequent ones I have two old but sturdy wrought-iron tables, each seating four. I often squeeze all eight chairs around the larger round table (no matter how much space you have, people like to sit together at one table!) and use the other table for snackie things and little appie plates. A glasstopped potting table functions as a self-serve bar.

Ambience is easy en plein air. The outdoors is its own décor. We always had a patio umbrella, tiny fairy lights threaded through the spokes. And candles in hurricane lamps flickering here and there. And outdoor speakers playing good music, not too loud for conversation. These are such simple things, but effective in creating a setting where people want to linger.

The rocking chair. We always had to make room for Jimmy’s big, clunky rocking chair, from which he would hold court. In my view it tackied up the joint, this random chair, and I would grumble about how much nicer the deck would look without it. Now, of course, I’m glad we kept it. I still have it.

Ballard is da bomb. At some point I got smart and ordered comfortable cushions for all eight wrought-iron chairs, the rocking chair, and the built-in benches from Ballard Designs. Ballard has so many cushion sizes and fabric options available that nothing had to be custom made. At the time, I thought ordering everything in one fabric would be too matchymatchy, so I used “coordinating” fabrics. It looks nice, but now I wish I had done matchy-matchy. It would give things a more unified look.

To store the cushions, we ordered a deck box online. Even though the fabric is indoor/outdoor, cushions get trashed if you leave them out in the elements. So they come out of the box only when people come over.

Chillin’ with friends on a Friday night. For years our standard Friday night practice was to invite a small group over for margaritas on the deck, then move to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. This is a simple way to entertain your peeps after a long week. A pitcher of margaritas is easy to make. Chips and guacamole, also easy, are the perfect accompaniment. You could do this with sangria, mojitos, Manhattans, rum punch, or palomas. Email me for recipes!

Entertaining IN KC

ENTERTAINING ALFRESCO

CRESTWOOD SHOPS

55TH & BROOKSIDE BLVD. hudsonandjane.com

RUSTIC SOPHISTICATION

What a standout! This noble-looking hurricane lamp has a rugged terra-cotta base and a sturdy, heavy chimney.

$170 at Diebolt’s at Gillham House

FLOOR THE MATTER

An outdoor rug adds style, warmth, and comfort to your entertaining space. The online site Lulu and Georgia has some great-looking, reasonably priced ones.

INSTANT AMBIENCE

LED patio lighting integrates with smart home systems, allowing you to control brightness and color from your smart phone.

UNINVITED GUESTS

NOT TECH SAVVY?

Sonos Move 2 voice-enabled speakers give you rich, immersive sound, waterproof durability, and portability. Buy locally at Independence AudioVideo, and they will bring them to you and set them up.

Mosquitos can ruin a party. Keep them at bay with No. 1 selling Thermacell ultrasonic mosquito repellant. It’s portable, rechargeable, and pet-friendly.

MY NEW BEST FRIEND

The mobile app HiNote adds tone to casual text invitations and thank you notes. Astonishingly userfriendly and free, you can find it in the app store.

55TH & BROOKSIDE BLVD. hudsonandjane.com

CRESTWOOD SHOPS

Entertaining IN KC

THE ROQUEFORT CHEESE TRICK

My sister-in-law, Claudine Jackson Weiher, was a sophisticated Washington hostess. “When you’re in a hurry and you need something to serve with drinks,” she told me, “go to the imported cheese area at the grocery and buy a wedge of the most expensive Roquefort they have, then serve it with a sliced baguette.” This advice has never failed me. Guests devour it.

OTHER EASY, ELEGANT APPETIZERS

Top-quality kettle chips, spread out on a platter and sprinkled liberally with feta cheese and chopped basil. Serve with salad tongs on pretty little appetizer plates. A small chunk of melon with a slice of prosciutto on Italian bread.

Cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls stacked on toothpicks, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Norwegian smoked salmon on slices of brown bread spread with honey mustard.

Entertaining IN KC

ASK MERRILY

Find answers to all your entertaining questions.

Q: Our parents’ 50th wedding anniversary is approaching. I am hosting a large family dinner to celebrate. My siblings are flying in from both coasts. We are of very different political persuasions. What should I do to steer the conversation away from politics?

A: As you prepare to host this important family event, develop a plan to ensure it remains a joyous celebration. You could begin the party with a heartfelt toast that celebrates your parents’ love (you can get great ideas for toasts from Chatbox or other AI apps), setting a warm tone for the gathering. Invite family members to share favorite memories about your parents, fostering a bonding atmosphere. Prepare some neutral conversation starters focused on shared interests, family experiences, pop culture, or sports to keep discussions positive. If political topics arise, gently redirect the conversation by emphasizing the importance of the occasion and suggesting more lighthearted subjects, like beloved family traditions or upcoming fun activities. Engaging everyone in storytelling or discussions about the meal can further diffuse tension.

Do you have a question about entertaining? Email it to mjackson@inkansascity.com

THE JOURNEY TO LUXURY STARTS WITH US.

NUMEROUS MODELS | ENDLESS OPTIONS | ONE UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

by Damian Lair dlair@inkansascity.com

Harry, Kathleen, and the West Wing

The Truman Library Institute hosted the 26th annual Wild About Harry gala to benefit the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and its education and outreach programs that perpetuate the legacy of our 33rd president. Event chairs Bridget McCandless and Dennis Taylor and honorary chairs Carla and Danny O’Neill assembled a worthy crowd for a beautiful event. Hats off!

The evening began with a social hour elevated by inventive cocktails, live music, and a vintage Truman photo booth. I also got to share a moment with the evening’s speakers and honoree, but more on them in a bit. The event was packed, and it was so lovely seeing everyone one more time before the city decamps for the summer vacation circuit.

This year’s event invited guests to step inside the White House with The West Wing cast members Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack, coauthors of the 2024 bestseller What’s Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service

Who’s barely begun working on a home renovation and may already have it sold?

Melissa and Mary, via a fireside interview with Kevin Walling, explored some behind-the-scenes details and leadership lessons conveyed across the seven seasons of The West Wing. The book is more than a glimpse behind the camera, it’s written through a lens of service. Since the show debuted 25 years ago, the cast has remained unusually

OVERHEARD

“She’s got more issues than a political platform.”

close and continues to support each other in charitable and service endeavors (one of the live-auction items was 24 hours of being included in the cast’s robust, ongoing text message chain). According to the book, “From the start, a commitment to service was in the bones of The West Wing. It was its DNA. It’s the ethos of a show designed to be, in the words of creator Aaron Sorkin, a love letter to public service.”

Though it was the fictional President Bartlet who said, “Government is how we do together what we cannot do alone,” it could have just as easily been President Truman. Both believed that public service is a higher calling—one that requires selflessness, integrity, and a willingness to make hard choices for the sake of a nation. Both recognized that weighty decisions that are not always clear cut can carry profound consequences for the nation and the world, and that meaningful progress requires a deep understanding and a respect for our government and political system.

One chapter, Number One of Number One, discusses the Hollywood maxim—“As number one goes, so goes the show.” On the day’s call sheet, actors are listed, with the show’s lead at the top as number one. Mary and Melissa recalled an early scene with many extras, where Martin Sheen was shaking hands with every person—gobbling up a lot of (very expensive) production time. “Hi, Martin Sheen, good to have you here. Thanks for joining us today. Hey, where are you from?” They noticed the producers nervously looking at their watches, know-

photo by mark

Left to right: Mary McCormack, Stephanie Meyer, Kathleen Sebelius, Damian Lair, and Melissa Fitzgerald at Wild About Harry.

GOSSIP:

Our Man IN KC

ing this chit chat was costing tens of thousands of dollars. And they wondered—what’s he doing? He knows how much it’s costing. But it later made sense. He was teaching everyone how the fledgling show was going to operate. Every day, they were going to recognize how lucky they were to be part of the show and that they were all a family. When Martin noticed that the extras were served different food and not invited to eat with the permanent cast, he made clear they would all eat together—like a family. Martin inspired others around him.

Drawing from an array of leadership lessons like this, cochair Bridget McCandless highlighted the connection to the Truman Library. “For tens of thousands of students in our region each year, stepping into the Truman Library is like stepping into the West Wing, where they discover not only the challenges of citizenship, politics, and democracy, but also—and most crucially—the values of leadership. It’s where learners become leaders.”

In addition to the keynote speakers, The Honorable Kathleen Sebelius received the 2025 Harry S. Truman Legacy of Leadership Award. President Barack Obama delivered her first congratulations via a surprise video greeting. “Harry Truman said that America was not built on fear but on the courage, imagination, and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand. That’s a pretty good description of Kathleen Sebelius…. As long as there are people like her willing to serve this country, America has [bright] days ahead.”

The obvious connecting thread (well, there are many) between Sebelius and Truman is healthcare. Forty-five years after LBJ signed Medicare into law at the Truman Library (Harry and Bess Truman received Medicare cards #1 and #2), Sebelius was charged with implementing the Affordable Care Act that she also helped shepherd into law.

Clifton Truman Daniel put a finer point on the healthcare connection: “For Grandpa, the burden of leadership—the prize that would make it all worthwhile—was about securing lasting peace. Peace depended upon national security. And our national security, he knew, depended on the health of Americans.”

Secretary Sebelius acknowledged that there is still work to do, and, in a nod to President Truman—who reminded us that there is “no indispensable man in a democracy”—she closed her remarks on service and leadership by saying, “The buck stops here. It stops with us.”

SPOTTED: Gary Sebelius, Marny & John Sherman, Clifton Truman Daniel, Madeleine McDonough & Cyd Slayton, Sarah Rowland, Ann Baum, Marylou Turner, Maureen McMeel Carroll, Stephanie Meyer, Jamila Weaver, Sheryll Myers, Sidonie Garrett, Sue & Lewis Nerman, Katherine DeBruce, Helen & Frank Wewers, Paetra & Gino Serra, Pam & Gary Gradinger, Charlotte Kemper Black, Betsy Triplett, Melesa Johnson, Tammy Edwards, Jim Blair, Kevin Hancock, Dan DeLeon & Jerry Katlin, Dan Nilsen, Dr. Terry Anderson & Michael Henry, Vince Clark & Julie Anderson Clark, Katie Gates Calderon, Stephanie Sankar, Shelby Herrick, Jeff Albright, Wendy Doyle, Loretta & Tom Mentzer, Ethan Corson, Kenny Wilk, Kathy Wolfe Moore, Lindsay & Niles Jager, Lauren Palmer, Zach Walker, Eileen Weir, Clay Norkey

LOW, SLOW, & LEGENDARY

INSIDE the Shops at Crown Center, a new destination awaits. My good friend Lee Page and I were thrilled to get a first walkthrough of the Museum of BBQ prior to its opening. The museum holds the illustrious title of being the world’s first museum dedicated to barbecue. The highly anticipated (named one of Time Out’s best new things to do in the world) immersive experience guides guests through the elements of barbecue and the primary American regions known for their role in the history of this culinary craft.

The first five installations (Meat, Rub, Wood & Fire, Smoke, and Sauce) show visitors how meat becomes barbecue through interactive activities and exhibits. Guests try their hand at identifying butcher cuts in the meat room and guess different seasonings by their scent in the sensory rub room.

The subsequent installations (Carolinas, Memphis, Texas, and Kansas City) trek guests across the U.S. to experience signature regions’ barbecue variations. I posed with a championship mustard belt—a nod to the mustard-based sauce featured in central South Carolina—and pulled a barbecue-themed dad joke in the Memphis room.

“Why do cows wear bells? Their horns don’t work.”

A real rib-tickler.

Upon exiting—and after learning about the legend of burnt ends in KC—I couldn’t resist a dip in the bean pit, courtesy of Bush’s Beans.

Museum founder Jonathan Bender was there to share his vision with us and even walked us through the gift shop, featuring barbecue items from across the U.S. While it’s common to see many of the KC sauces on local grocery shelves, it was really cool to cull through a vast array of similar items thoughtfully pulled from across the U.S. I love the strong celery undertones of the Gate’s BBQ sauce, so Jonathan steered me toward a few others from Tennessee and Texas that I might also enjoy. I’ll still have Gate’s permanently on tap in my fridge, but it’s always fun to expand one’s saucy horizons.

AND THE WINNER IS…

OVERHEARD

“Poor dog looks like he drank the same radioactive sewer water as the mutant ninja turtles.”

IN MY APRIL COLUMN, I chronicled my special first look at the six finalists’ proposals for the design competition aiming for expansion and general enhancement of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art campus. As I described, there was—in my view—only one option. I’m so, so pleased that the Board of Trustees at the Nelson-Atkins unanimously concluded the same. The museum publicly announced (in somewhat anti-climactic fashion, hours ahead of the reveal party) that Weiss/Manfredi from New York will lead the upcoming expansion and transformation project. Their

proposal deftly united the trilogy of architecture, landscape, and community as reciprocal elements that work together while maintaining the majestic south-lawn vista into the Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park and the original building’s neoclassical limestone facade.

HOT GOSSIP:

What couple picked up and moved the family to Italy and is thriving one year later?

Next up, the museum will begin the months-long process of adapting the concept into more specific and detailed plans. Contemporaneously, what is likely to be the largest private fundraising campaign for the arts in Kansas City will begin in earnest. Construction costs are currently estimated to be $170 million.

In other Nelson-Atkins news, I can finally reveal something I alluded to back in my October 2024 column. While traveling to New York with the Nelson-Atkins and Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, we were hosted with a private tour of the townhome and artists’ studio belonging to Bulgarian-born Christo (1935-2020) and his partner, Jeanne-Claude (1935-2009). There, the Christo and Jean-Claude Foundation presented museum director Juliàn Zugazagoitia with a collection of original artworks and related archival material tied to the 1978 Wrapped Walk Ways project, which vividly transformed Jacob L. Loose Memorial Park. Christo and Jean-Claude wrapped roughly twoand-a-half miles of park pathways in yellow nylon fabric, revolutionizing the way visitors viewed the park. Sharon and John Hoffman were instrumental in securing this gift, and I cannot wait for forthcoming exhibits featuring these many works. You can bet I’ll be there—and reporting back here.

A PLAZA STROLL

BUILDING OFF THE POPULARITY of its annual autumn Plaza Art Fair, the Country Club Plaza introduced a new happening this year— the Spring Market & Shopping Stroll. Centered on Nichols Road between Jefferson and Pennsylvania, it was a celebration of shopping, dining, and community. The event was anchored by a pop-up market with local offerings of jewelry, cards and stationery, face painting, vintage books, candles, handmade clothing, toys, and crafts. I grabbed a swig of juice from Ruby Jean’s Juicery and set out to enjoy an uncommon agenda-free weekend morning. While enjoying the late-spring weather and live music, I strolled among the various vendors. In the spirit of the season, I selected a simple, beautiful bouquet of cheery yellow tulips from White Farmhouse Flowers & Gifts.

While strolling, I spied a striped cashmere boating sweater in the J.Crew window. It would be perfect, I deduced, for an upcoming trip to Lake Como. I snapped it up. Subsequently, I set about exploring the broader Plaza, which was awash with special activations and promotions. Shops were offering complimentary samples, styling, snacks, and discounts. Among the many special offers and experiences, J. McLaughlin had a hat customizing station and Charlie Hustle invited customers to tie-dye their purchase. Before heading home, I secured a choice spot on one of my favorite KC patios, Gram & Dun. Basking in the sunshine and surrounded by sips and nibbles, it was the perfect close to a lovely day on the Plaza.

So, KC—where do you want to go? XO

A spectacular, contemporary venue with transformable reception spaces and a magnificent courtyard. 1900bldg.com (913) 730–1905

Modern-American cuisine from award-winning Chef Linda Duerr. Chef Duerr and team present elegant fare and carefully curated menus for a variety of special occasions. therestaurantat1900.com (913) 730–1900

1900 Building

1900 Shawnee Mission Parkway Mission Woods, Kansas

GOLD COULD BE YOUR NEW FINANCIAL STRATEGY

WITH DIAMOND BANC

Today might be the best time to put your gold pieces to work for you.

“Gold is currently trading at some of the highest levels we’ve seen in years—over $3,300 an ounce,” says Sicily Von Overfelt, director of Diamond Banc in Kansas City. That means your gold assets—whether inherited, collected, or purchased—may be worth significantly more today than ever before.

“From chains and coins to luxury watches, we help clients understand and maximize the real-time value of their holdings,” says Von Overfelt. “People often see gold as decorative or sentimental, but it can be a powerful financial tool—especially in an economy where borrowing costs are high.”

PUT GOLD TO WORK FOR YOU

Unlike real estate, stocks and bonds, or works of art, gold is a much more liquid asset. You can sell it quickly, if you know where to go and whom to trust. Diamond Banc can help you put your gold to work.

One way is to sell your gold jewelry, coins, or other pieces outright.

Once you make an appointment and come in, there is no pressure to sell, says Von Overfelt. You will get a free valuation on the gold jewelry you bring in. You may decide to sell that day, you may not. Whatever you decide, you will know that Diamond Banc’s long history and reputation are also things you can count on. “Relationships really matter in this business,” Von Overfelt explains. “Not only my trusted relationship with clients, but also Diamond Banc’s large

network of global relationships with retailers and buyers. Our clients know that we’re committed to transparency in what we do, our expertise in examining valuables, and our pledge to maximize the value of their special pieces.”

Some clients, however, might wish to leverage the value of their gold pieces without selling. Diamond Banc can help with that, too.

A SHORT-TERM EQUITY LOAN CAN MAKE LONG-TERM DREAMS COME TRUE

“You could also use your gold jewelry as collateral for a 30-day equity loan,” suggests Von Overfelt. “We loan up to 75% of the value and charge 8% interest for the first 30 days. Traditional pawn shops can charge up to 17% interest, which would add up to 204% APR,” she says. If you pay the interest each month, you can extend the loan for another 30 days. Or another and another. Clients can also draw loan balances up and down, like a flexible line of credit. When you pay back the interest and principal, you retrieve your jewelry. Diamond Banc also sends automatic payment reminders, so you don’t lose track. “We want you to get your items back,” says Von Overfelt.

There is no credit check with an equity loan from Diamond Banc, so your credit is not impacted one way or another. After the valuation of your items and completion of the paperwork, you could walk out of the office with a check or a direct deposit to your bank account. Fast and easy.

“I had a recent client whose family had given her several 22 to 24-karat gold bangle bracelets, a tradition in their culture,” says Von Overfelt. This client secured a loan for an upcoming project, paid off the loan, and retrieved her treasured jewelry.

Each loan is tailored to match a client’s individual goals and needs, offering flexibility in both the amount and the repayment schedule. Loan offers are often equivalent to purchase offers. If you make more than the

minimum monthly payment, that extra goes towards repaying the principal. There is no penalty for repaying the principal early. Diamond Banc’s service is confidential, professional, and personal. When you want to “liquify your luxury,” suggests Von Overfelt, or realize substantial capital for a different investment, Diamond Banc is there.

Sicily Von Overfelt is a GIA Diamonds Graduate with over 16 years of experience in the jewelry industry and 10+ years with Diamond Banc. She began her career in retail diamond sales, where she gained extensive experience with designer brands, the intricacies of the diamond market and providing luxury client experience. Sicily is the Director of Diamond Banc in Kansas City, authenticating and purchasing pre-owned luxury designer jewelry, diamonds, and watches from the public. DIAMONDBANC.COM 435 Nichols Rd., Suite 200 Kansas City, MO 64112 816.597.5773 FOR AN APPOINTMENT email sicily@diamondbanc.com

by Judith Fertig

HBen Parks

PORTRAIT ARTIST ANSWERS FOUR QUESTIONS

ow Ben Parks came into the world is a classic Midwestern larger-than-life story. On the way to the hospital from Fairfax, Missouri, “Tornadoes were touching down,” he relates, “but my dad kept driving. The electricity was out, so the hospital was running on generators.”

Today, this Kansas City-based artist primarily focuses on painting larger-than-life portraits and figurative work imbued with their own drama. “My work is an exercise in capturing the essence of a soul,” he says. “I paint subject matter in a state of being unmasked emotionally. I look for unguarded moments where the true nature of a person is visible.”

“Emotional in nature, I paint these real moments on large-scale canvases,” he adds. “As I am painting, I transfer my own emotional experience into the process while also being affected by my perception of the subject. My goal through painting is to bring the subconscious into awareness.”

Parks is also involved in illustrations, interactive installations, music,

IT’S YOUR MONEY IT’S YOUR MONEY

Arts & Culture IN KC

printmaking, and sculpture. As a visual artist, he has shown many original works in galleries and museums throughout the country, including the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art, Leedy-Voulkous Art Center, the Foundry Art Centre, the Lawrence Arts Center, the Cee Flat Gallery in Brooklyn, New York, the KCAC, and the Hilliard Gallery. Parks’s work has been acquired for private collections and museums throughout the country. benjaminparks.info/contact

INKC: Some artists are drawn to landscape or abstract, but you are most fervently on the portrait side of things. Portraits used to say “Look how important I am.” But what do they say to you? What intrigues you about the human face?

Ben Parks: I can’t really explain it—I’ve just always been drawn to the human face and gaze since elementary school. For me, it’s about capturing a moment or a feeling—someone’s sense of consciousness or perspective.

INKC: Tell us a little bit about your process. Canvas? Paint? Grid marks? Secret messages?

BP: I work on canvas, usually pinning it directly to the wall before applying gesso to smooth out any wrinkles. Each piece begins with a oneinch grid system, drawn in pencil using a seven-foot-long, one-by-twoinch board. This helps me maintain proper proportions and creates a sense of intimacy with the painting.

From there, I define the planes of light and shadow, starting with a

blue underpainting. I then draw and glaze multiple layers of paint on top.

In a series of portraits of my siblings and parents, I embedded hidden messages: each one-inch square of the grid contains a single letter, forming a written letter to each individual. I also underpainted the eyes—using my own blood—since red is the complementary color to the green and blue tones of our eyes.

That’s why the series is titled “Blood is Like Family.” It explores the pain of being shunned after leaving the religion I was raised in, and the deep suffering that has come from that rupture.

INKC: You grew up in a very religious family in which you were not encouraged to “color outside the lines,” so to speak. And yet you paint these hyper realistic portraits that go deep—yet still stay within lines. Does creativity always find a way?

BP: I don’t think it does, unfortunately. I think artists who keep going have a screw loose, and that is more the impetus than creativity having an intrinsic need to exist. I would much prefer if the latter were the case, though—it’s a very romantic notion.

INKC: What are you working on now?

BP: I’m currently working on a self-portrait series exploring themes of self-loathing and God, a series of portraits of teachers and inspirational mentors, and a collection of figurative and narrative figure/room scenes. I’m also exploring interactive installation work that combines projection and sculpture.

Create Where You Belong

Locally owned with showrooms in Overland Park and Briarcliff Village

Classic & Modern

Designer Katy Sullivan loves combining classic pieces with unique and unexpected elements to add personality to a home.

But above all, she enjoys the process of getting to know her clients, designing to their style, and creating a space that reflects their lives and personal aesthetic.

Come explore your style with Katy at Madden McFarland.

Arts & Culture IN KC

by Judith Fertig

PAINTED GARDEN AND GROWTH AT POWELL GARDENS

FROM NOW UNTIL JUNE 15, you can catch the Painted Garden exhibit at Powell Gardens in Kingsville, Missouri.

Painted Garden features work by local artists, including glass artist Tyler Kimball of Monarch Glass Studio. In the Conservatory, his large-scale Growth installation, composed of sculpted wisteria vines and illuminated glass obelisks, celebrates the interplay of light, nature, and human artistry.

“Tyler Kimball’s work is a true reflection of the wonder and vibrancy of Painted Garden,” says the CEO, Cody Jolliff. “Our spring exhibition aims to connect art and the natural world. Kimball’s ability to harness light and color through glass aligns perfectly with the Midwest beauty at Powell Gardens.”

“For me, creating glass art alongside the people I love in my Kansas City studio is not just a career but the joy of my life,” says Kimball. “Seeing my work come to life in a space like Powell Gardens, where nature and art merge, is an incredible experience. I hope visitors are inspired by the growth and transformation reflected in this piece.”

For more information, visit powellgardens.org

SYMPHONY IN THE FLINT HILLS: THE GRAND FINALE

FOR ALMOST 20 YEARS, the Kansas City Symphony has headed west to the Flint Hills of Kansas for a signature all-day event embracing music, prairie skies, art, nature, and community. If you have ever had the pleasure of going, you know that it is an unforgettable, sometimes out-of-body experience, as you listen to the symphony play Home on the Range or Aaron Copland’s Old American Songs as cowboys slowly drive cattle across the horizon against the setting sun in that big prairie sky.

But all good things eventually come to an end. The Symphony in the Flint Hills will have its Grand Finale on Saturday, June 14, at Evans Family Ranch in Chase County. It’s one last chance to embrace this fusion of natural wonder and human artistic excellence. Kansas native and country music star Logan Mize will be the featured musical artist.

The work of the nonprofit Symphony in the Flint Hills will go on, however. “We directly engage with the land,” said the board chair, Mary Ice, in a statement. “We collaborate with musicians, artists, historians, scientists, and community members to honor both the traditions of today and the future of the Flint Hills of tomorrow. At Symphony in the Flint Hills, we envision a future where our efforts inspire people to strengthen the Kansas prairie by sustaining the region’s unique culture and landscape.”

Visit symphonyintheflinthills.org for more information.

Arts & Culture IN KC

by Judith Fertig

CANCIONERA

ON JUNE 12, a unique musical talent comes to serenade Kansas City, for one night only. Natalia Lafourcade is a Mexican composer, artist, singer, and music producer, recognized as one of the most influential voices in Latin popular culture of this century. She has won four Latin Grammy awards.

She began writing songs at an early age and launched her first solo album in 2002. As a lyrical soprano, she performs music across several genres, from pop and rock to jazz and folk, but always with a Latin influence.

Lafourcade’s Cancionera (Songbook) Tour has just begun, with concerts throughout Mexico, the United States, and Canada through October. Many of her concert dates are already sold out. She has performed in national and international festivals as well as iconic venues like Lincoln Center in New York City, Koko in London, and the Bataclan in Paris. She has also appeared on Austin City Limits, NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts, and Live from Here with Chris Thile.

For more information and tickets, visit kauffmancenter.org

THE HEARTLAND MEN’S CHORUS CONCERT AND TOUR—DO IT WITH HEART!

ON JUNE 28 AND 29 at the Midwest Trust Center on the Johnson County Community College campus, catch the summer concert given by the 125-voice-strong Heartland Men’s Chorus. Founded in 1986, the Chorus will deliver powerful music and inspiring messages of love and acceptance to our LGBTQIA+ and allied Midwest neighbors—and do it with lots of heart. The concert will feature stirring anthems of pride that continue to inspire a movement of equality for all. Heartland Men’s Chorus Kansas City’s mission is to build community, celebrate pride, and empower authenticity. The members of HMCKC have joined together as a nonprofit, volunteer chorus to make a positive cultural contribution through musical excellence. (And they are always looking for volunteer voices.)

Visit jccc.edu/midwest-trust-center for more information and tickets.

THE DEFINITIVE

BLUEPRINT

OF EXCELLENCE IN KANSAS CITY REAL ES TAT E

The People First Playbook

Kevin’s approach goes far beyond transactions—he genuinely cares about seeing others succeed. Whether guiding clients from renting to owning their first home or mentoring the 22 agents on his team to reach their full potential, he’s energized by their achievements. “Seeing others satisfied is what makes me tick.”

Always in Control

Thirty years in real estate have taught Kevin that there’s always a solution, and staying calm is key to finding it. “There’s a fix for everything. We’ve got this.” He brings reassurance and steady composure to every situation, instilling confidence in clients and teammates alike.

Follow the Leader

Kevin’s clients benefit from more than just his expertise; they gain the backing of Kansas City’s most trusted real estate brand. The ReeceNichols name opens doors, builds instant credibility, and helps turn interest into action.

Behind Kevin’s highperforming real estate team is a powerhouse of technology, marketing, and support, courtesy of ReeceNichols. From smart platforms that put your home in front of the right buyers to systems that keep every detail on track, these tools aren’t just for agents— they’re built for client success.

Kevin Foster Real Estate Agent

Summer Starts Here

Summer Concert Series

SATURDAYS IN JUNE & AUGUST ( 7PM - 9PM ) Free outdoor concerts featuring top local bands.

June 7: Stolen Winnebagos

June 14: Material Girl & The Fame Monster

June 21: Perpetual Change

June 28: The Zeros

Second Saturdays for Kids!

EVERY SECOND SATURDAY (10AM - NOON)

Kids rule! Free entertainment for mornings filled with play, laughter, and meaningful moments together.

June 14: It’s a Bubble Party

July 12: Summer Foam Party!

Wednesday Date Night

EVERY WEDNESDAY (6PM - 8PM)

Live music for a mid-week date night! Connect over a great line-up of pop/rock, country, and even reggae!

Pinwheel Club

TUESDAYS IN JUNE & JULY (9AM - 11AM) A free weekly kids club with crafts, entertainment, and games.

KCMC Summer Bash

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 (9AM - 11AM)

Kick off the season with a fun-filled family block party presented by Kansas City Mom Collective. Entertainment, games, giveaways, and more!

Guitars & Games

EVERY FRIDAY (6PM - 8PM) Free live acoustic music and lawn games.

Visit ParkPlaceLeawood.com for more details.

Park Place is located on the northeast corner of Nall Avenue & 117th St., just north of AMC 20 Theatre.

TRADITION WITH A TWIST

While preppy style is classic and never really “out,” some years it’s especially “in,” and 2025 is that year. It’s a polished aesthetic that’s all about the tailoring and the silhouette. Think quality, not quantity.

Oxford shirts, chinos, crewneck sweaters, polo shirts, blazers, and loafers are basics and might already be in your closet. An all-prep look will never do you wrong, but for a modern twist, mix it up a bit. Maybe toss your navy blazer over a trad white T-shirt, or wear a crewneck sweater with crisp, raw-denim jeans. Sub a boat shoe for a loafer. Fresh, bright colors have always been part of the look, and this year the choice is wider than ever.

Drake’s button-down Oxford shirt, $238; Polo by Ralph Lauren pants, $248; Sid Mashburn crewneck sweater, $295, and suede penny loafers, $350. All available at Newton James.

Wax London Naples vertical knit polo, $165, Ulah

stripe sport shirt, $275, both available at Halls

Teleria Zed pants, $225, available at Hudson & Jane

photo by aaron leimkuehler

SKIN IN THE GAME

Cleanse. Moisturize. Sunscreen. Those are the most basic steps for any guy’s skincare regimen. But if you’re thinking glow up, there’s more you can do, too.

Cleanse: No matter your skin type—dry, oily, sensitive—there’s a cleanser made especially for you. Drop that bar soap and try one of these recommendations. And using a toner post cleansing can calm sensitive faces.

Moisturize: Even oily skin needs moisturizer. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter.

Sunscreen: Always, always, top it all off with a strong SPF. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen is the most important step you can do for your skin in the long term.

If you shave, you’re exfoliating. You’re not only removing hair, but you’re also removing the top layer of dead skin cells. A moisturizing shave cream will reduce irritation and make the process go smoothly. And a beard oil is a necessity for bearded fellas to nourish your scruff and keep it looking and feeling great.

Ok, you’ve covered the basics. Special serums and treatments like vitamin C, a retinoid, and glycolic pads can take that glow up to the next level.

SUNSCREEN Le Prunier Plumscreen, $78, available at Welwythn.

CLEANSER

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial BarrierHydrating Cleanser, $29, from Sephora

MOISTURIZER

Grooming Lounge Mug

Moisturizer, $28, available at The Gents Place

BEARD CARE

Beard oil, $25, available from Bear Soap Company

TONER

Calming Facial Toner, $78, available at Skin KC.

ANTI-AGING

Dior Sauvage

Le Sérum, $95, available at Dillard’s.

SHAVE CREAM

Bevel Shave Cream with Aloe Vera, $9.95, at Ulta Beauty

by Judith Fertig

New Technology for Lung Cancer Biopsies: Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy at AdventHealth

A CONVERSATION WITH BRONCHOSCOPIST, PULMONOLOGIST, AND CRITICAL CARE SPECIALIST ERIC SNOWDEN

When a patient exhibits possible signs of lung cancer, early detection and rapid, patient-centered care can make all the difference. With a big assist from new technology, AdventHealth prioritizes seeing patients quickly and scheduling biopsies within days of referral, allowing medical experts to accelerate diagnosis, expedite staging, and initiate treatment without unnecessary delays.

Dr. Eric Snowden, MD, MS, Advanced Bronchoscopist, Board-certified Pulmonologist, and Critical Care Specialist, AdventHealth Medical Group Pulmonology at Shawnee Mission, explains more.

How does robotic-assisted bronchoscopy aid in lung cancer diagnosis?

This technology enables us to reach deep into the lung periphery—accessing nodules as small as seven or eight millimeters in size that were previously unreachable with traditional bronchoscopic techniques. Using ultra-thin, ultra-stable robotic catheters and real-time shape-sensing technology, we are able to precisely guide the scope through complex airway anatomy with unmatched control. This allows us to obtain high-quality tissue samples from even the most difficult-to-access nodules, improving our diagnostic accuracy while significantly reducing the need for repeat procedures or more invasive techniques such as CT-guided or surgical biopsies. The system allows us to target multiple lesions in one session and

perform lymph node staging when needed. This is particularly valuable in identifying and staging early lung cancers in a single setting, enabling prompt and definitive treatment planning. Ultimately, the Ion platform supports our mission of diagnosing lung cancer earlier—when it is most curable—and doing so with greater precision, safety, and confidence.

What is the process like for a patient?

Patients undergoing robotic-assisted bronchoscopy are placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety throughout the procedure. The bronchoscopy is performed in a specialized endoscopy suite, where we integrate the Ion system with advanced imaging modalities— including real-time fluoroscopy using a mobile 3D C-arm CT scanner.

The entire procedure usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the number and location of nodules and whether lymph node staging is performed concurrently. As with any bronchoscopy, there are some procedural risks—most commonly mild bleeding or pneumothorax (a small air leak in the lung). However, these complications are

Eric Snowden, MD, MS

How do we inspire a healthier world? It starts with putting your health first. At AdventHealth, we’re leading the way in women’s care. As one of U.S. News and World Report’s Best Maternity Care Hospitals, more expecting moms turn to us for first hellos. With our state-of-the-art Cancer Institute home to the leading gynecologic cancer team in the region, and a world-class diagnostic breast center, more women trust our personalized cancer care. And with a team dedicated to women’s heart care, we’re experts in matters of the heart.

Learn why more women trust AdventHealth, Kansas City’s leader in women’s health care at WomensCareKC.com.

Health IN KC

relatively uncommon and are typically manageable with conservative measures. Overall, the procedure is well tolerated, and most patients are discharged the same day with minimal recovery time.

What are the benefits to the patient?

For patients, it means faster access to diagnosis and care. At AdventHealth, we prioritize rapid evaluation, often scheduling procedures within a week of referral—far exceeding national benchmarks. This speed is critical in lung cancer, where early diagnosis correlates directly with improved survival. In addition to speed, the accuracy of this technology allows for definitive diagnosis of small or difficult-to-reach lesions that might otherwise go unbiopsied or require more invasive interventions. This translates to fewer non-diagnostic procedures, shorter time to treatment, and an increased ability to deliver curative therapies in the earliest stages of disease. For many patients, it means the difference between early-stage intervention and advanced disease.

The system also supports a more patient-centered approach—minimally invasive, outpatient-based, and highly targeted. Patients benefit from fewer complications, reduced anxiety from prolonged diagnostic timelines, and the confidence of knowing they are receiving the most advanced diagnostic care available.

How else does AdventHealth support patients during this process?

Every patient referred to our program is supported by a dedicated lung nodule nurse navigator who serves as a single point of contact—coordinating imaging, consultations, procedures, and follow-up care. Our nurse navigator ensures patients are educated, informed, and never feel lost in the process. Our bronchoscopy suite is staffed by a highly experienced team of nurses and respiratory therapists who specialize in advanced pulmonary procedures. Their efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail play a critical role in maintaining high-quality outcomes and patient satisfaction.

We also collaborate closely with a team of thoracic oncologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and radiologists in weekly tumor board conferences. This integrated approach allows us to review cases in real time, expedite staging and treatment planning, and offer patients comprehensive care tailored to their diagnosis. In addition, we’ve reserved same-week office slots in our lung nodule clinic to ensure that urgent referrals are evaluated without delay. We actively engage primary care clinics, urgent care centers, and referring providers throughout the region to educate them about our lung nodule program and to promote lung cancer screening—one of the most effective tools we have for catching cancer early.

By combining state-of-the-art technology with a truly collaborative and patient-focused care model, AdventHealth is redefining what’s possible in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. AdventHealthKC.com

Spotlight KC ATTRACTIONS NOT TO

Kansas City Repertory Theatre — kcrep.org

Be transformed by the magic of live theatre during our 2025/26 Season, playing on stage from September 2025 to May 2026

Legends Outlets

Your destination for free events, exclusive deals, and delicious dining at every turn.

Follow

Colonial Gardens

Celebrate the magic of midweek with our sensational Wednesday Night Live in Colonial Gardens Greenhouse!

Clay County Parks – Smithville Lake “Life is Better at the Lake!”

by Patricia O’Dell

Green Dirt on Oak STEAL the LOOK

A CLASSIC URBAN LOOK WITH GREAT ENERGY

Af ew weeks ago, we had friends in town and a great group of people were able to meet up, catch up, and go up on a downtown rooftop to enjoy the spring evening. Green Dirt on Oak could not have been a better spot. We knew the food would be great, but a couple of folks who hadn’t been before were delighted with the atmosphere.

Suiting its location, Green Dirt on Oak has a downtown loft vibe. Exposed brick walls with wide windows framed in black steel are a textured backdrop defining the dining room. Seating areas around the dining room—which can serve as event space as well—are great inspiration.

French bistro chairs and light wood tables echo the organic focus of the menu. A leather sofa flanked by midcentury-upholstered chairs, grounded by round, fluted tables atop a colorful rug would be right at home—well, at home.

The upstairs bar is backed with brick and terra-cotta tile of varying colors and sizes, while the rooftop bar features light oak tables and natural rope-wrapped chairs, adding an organic element to the city that surrounds it. It is a wonderful place to linger. What more could you want from your home?

Left: Bistro side chair, $350, from Williams Sonoma Home. Above Woodbridge Furniture Casual Dining Forever table, $3,771, from Seville Home. Right: Amira swivel chair, $2,900, from Arhaus.

GARDENERS, IT’S GO TIME!

from The Green Door Antiques

“DON’T PLANT ANNUALS BEFORE MOTHER’S DAY” is traditional garden advice, so this is “go” time. No surprise, when it comes to containers, I gravitate to more classic pieces like clay pots, iron urns, and stone or concrete sculptural elements. It’s great if you can find these at estate sales—or better yet, have them handed down from family—but there are good sources in town, as well.

Several of our antique stores have wonderful pieces. Christopher Filley Antiques, Pear Tree Design & Antiques, The Green Door Antiques, and Gillham House Antiques are a few of my favorites. If you

have time to hunt and gather, you should have luck at any of the antiques malls in the area.

Still, there’s no shame in buying new pieces. We’re talking about decor that is going to live outside, which goes a long way to developing patina. Garden centers are a great source of planters as well. Suburban Lawn & Garden, Soil Service, and Family Tree Nursery have great selections. These pieces may feel like a big spend sometimes, but with very little care they last for decades. Start with two and see where it takes you!

SPEND YOUR DAY THE KANSAS CITY WAY

Cuisine for every taste, entertainment for all ages, and unique finds at one-of-a-kind shops—nowhere else compares. For a completely Kansas City experience, it has to be Crown Center.

2450 GRAND BLVD. | KANSAS CITY, MO 64108

by Patricia O’Dell

Let’s Turn Up the Romance

AUSTIN-BASED DESIGNER HITS THE HIGH NOTES

Designer Marcus Mohon established his firm 24 years ago and has a reputation for balancing high style and easygoing comfort. While he leans towards palettes that are predominately earth-toned neutrals—ivory, tans, taupe, and darker browns accented with dashes of blues, greens, and ochre—the rooms are never dull or boring. His new book, The Romance of Home, captures his aesthetic, process, and philosophy, all of which can lend perspective to readers.

“Sketches and watercolor renderings have become incredibly important to my process of working for clients. The art of drawing engages the imagination and unleashes visionary power,” he says. Indeed, his rooms often look like watercolors themselves. In addi-

tion, Mohon is committed to creating rooms that are timeless.

“We never create a room or residence to be cool or trendy. To reflect your essence, it won’t be something that changes every season, like a pair of loafers. It will have consistency and permanence.”

Ultimately, his philosophy on design plays well in any setting.

“My job includes a bit of archaeology, helping people unearth what they love, and some psychology, figuring out what makes their hearts beat faster. With pencil and watercolors in hand, we set out to dream up the kind of dwelling—soulful, sophisticated, gracious, hospitable—that will elevate its owners and provide pleasure for anyone who visits.”

That sums up design for this writer as well.

The Romance of Home showcases the chic, soulful, livable spaces of Texas-based interior designer Marcus Mohon. Included are many of Mohon’s exquisite watercolor sketches, which are integral to his design process.

marcus mohon

photocourtesy of mohon interieros

| book

photos courtesy of rizzoli new york

HELLO, DADDY-O

I’M VERY FORTUNATE that the men in my life have good taste. In addition, both my husband and one of my sons are attuned to great barware. But when I was single, I noticed that men can be pretty happy setting out cheese and charcuterie on a dinner plate and opening wine and beer bottles with a handy tool on their key chain.

Rather than giving dad something with a pithy saying related to one of his hobbies, it might be fun to set the scene by giving your father an upgrade in his bar game with tools that are both handy and handsome. Both Ulah and Williams Sonoma have wonderful products for dads with discerning taste to ones who enjoy a more playful set up. Do cowboy-boot shot glasses seem like a great fit for the dad on your list? You’re in luck!

Cowboy boot shot glasses, $19, from Ulah.

Gentlemen’s

apron, $45, from Ulah.

from Ulah.

Williams Sonoma.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL AT TOWN CENTER PLAZA

• Free, family-friendly live outdoor concerts

• Local eats for purchase from food trucks

• Free kids’ activities including professional face painting, balloon artists, inflatable slides, and a proformance by KC Aerial Arts

• Fun starts at 6pm, live music at 7pm in the Town Center Plaza North parking lot

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

SUMMER BREEZE WITH THE SUBURBANS

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

ELTON DAN WITH STEVIE NICKS TRIBUTE

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

THE ELDERS WITH ZIGGY AND THE NEPTUNES

TOWN CENTER PLAZA

4EverYoung

Aerie

Allen Edmonds

Altar’d State

Amazing Lash Studio

American Eagle Outfitters

Anthony Vince Nail Spa

Anthropologie

Arhaus

Athleta

Banana Republic

Barnes & Noble

Bath & Body Works

Blue Chip Cookies

Brighton Collectibles

Bristol Seafood Grill

Brooks Brothers

Brow Studio

Buckle

Chicos

Claire’s

CycleBar

Dry Goods

Escapology

Francesca’s Collections

Gap Body

Gap Kids/Baby

Gorjana

Hudson/Hawk Barber & Shop

J.Jill

Kansas City Aerial Arts

LaserAway

LOFT

Macy’s

Madewell

MTHD Hair Co.

Natalie M. Studio

OFFLINE by Aerie

Pandora Jewelry

Panera

Pinot’s Palette

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Kids

Power Life Yoga Barre Fitness

Rally House/Kansas Sampler

Restoration Hardware

Revocup Coffee

Salon Ami Aveda

SandboxVR

Scout & Molly’s Boutique

Sephora

Sola Salon

Soma

Sundance

Sunglass Hut

Sushi House

TAO Reflexology

Tempur-Pedic

The Art of Sports

The North Face

Tommy Bahama

Vera Bradley

White House | Black Market

Whole Harvest Kitchen

Williams-Sonoma

X-Golf

Yankee Candle Co.

TOWN CENTER CROSSING

Apple

Aritzia

Blue Mercury Body Lab

Cold Stone Creamery

Crate & Barrel

Dry Bar (Coming Soon)

Evereve

Fabletics

JCrew (Coming Soon); Kendra Scott

Lovesac

Lululemon

North Italia

Paper Source

Purple

Roasterie Café

Salonone19 & Spa

Sullivan’s Steakhouse

Tecovas

The Shade Store

Trader Joe’s

Treats Unleashed

Vineyard Vines

Warby Parker

Woodhouse Day Spa

Yeti

TOWN CENTER

PLAZA • CROSSING

TOWNCENTERPLAZA.COM

Conveniently located at the NW & SE

corners of 119th Street & Roe Avenue

Leawood, Kansas

Left to right, DaHuang and ShanZuo Zhoushi.

IN CONVERSATION WITH

DaHuang & ShanZuo Zhoushi

words by Cindy Hoedel

One of the brightest lights in the current Kansas City art scene is a double star—two brothers who have collaborated on paintings and sculptures since 1973 under the professional name Zhou (zh-oh) Brothers. ShanZuo (shahn-zwo) and DaHuang (da-hwa-ng) Zhoushi were born in Guangxi, China, in 1952 and 1957, respectively. In 1986 they immigrated to the United States, landing in Chicago with two suitcases and $20. They quickly found success with their abstract paintings and sculptures and an artistic philosophy called “feelingism,” which emphasizes intuition and liberty of expression over convention. With the goal of “creating a home for artists and a paradise for creation,” they bought an 87,000-square-foot building in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago and opened the Zhou B Art Center in 2004.

One year ago, they unveiled Zhou B Art Center Kansas City in the 18th and Vine Jazz District. Of 45 available studios, 40 are leased. Upcoming events and exhibitions can be found at zhoubartcenterkc.com, and the brothers are on Instagram @zhoubrothers. DaHuang and ShanZuo spoke with IN Kansas City by phone from Chicago the day after Zhou B Art Center Kansas City won a Capstone Award for architectural design excellence from Block Real Estate Services.

What brought you to Kansas City the first time?

DaHuang: Allan Gray [a financial advisor who works closely with the American Jazz Museum and Kansas City Jazz Ambassadors] contacted our office in Chicago and extended an invitation for us to come to Kansas City. He planned everything to welcome us and show us the city. Many years before that, Allan had visited Chicago and toured Zhou B Art Center. He had something in his mind. He thought after seeing what the Art Center has done in Chicago—creating chemistry and having a great impact on the South Side neighborhood—that it would be great if a Zhou B Arts Center in Kansas

City could have the same results.

ShanZuo: We said, OK, let’s do the visit. That visit was in 2015. We met with the Edgar Snow Foundation, and we met with the mayor, Sly James. And the story starts from there. I had such a great feeling during the visit.

Why?

ShanZuo: Kansas City. Those people are so welcoming, so friendly. They showed us all around and made me feel like there is some kind of chemistry in the city because there are so many creative individuals there. Allan said maybe we could do something here, to spread the Zhou B legacy to Kansas City. We liked the idea. Then 30 minutes before we left to return to Chicago, Allan was driving us around the 18th and Vine Jazz District. I asked him to slow down, and I asked him, “What is that building on the right?” He stopped the car and told us the building was the [former] Crispus Attucks School. I said, “This building has the potential to be the art center.” It is right in the middle of the jazz district, and I thought there was a great potential to have a positive impact on the whole area.

Allan called one day later and said the city was very supportive of the idea. That was the beginning. Then it took a long time to do demolition and construction, but now it’s open.

What is going on inside the building now?

DaHuang: It is a center for art and for life, for the people and for the future.

In what way is it for the people and in what way is it for the future?

DaHuang: For the people, art represents a great life and a great future. The Art Center can provide a lot of opportunity for the neighborhood. Art is for the people, not only for a small circle of artists. Art is for society. It is building the future.

Who uses the studios?

DaHuang: A lot of studios are occupied by local artists, and some are available for international artists to use. We have a Zhou B Art Foundation through Kansas City Art Institute that gives students studio space to use. We have a lot of social events for people in the neighborhood as well as curated exhibitions featuring international artists. We believe the center is elevating the image of Kansas City as an art city internationally.

How much time do you spend in Kansas City, and do you have homes here?

ShanZuo: We go for openings and open houses. We love to be there and meet with the artists and see the energy there.

Where do you stay when you are here?

DaHuang: We stay in a hotel, but we are considering second homes in Kansas City. We have studios in the Art Center and plan to create work there.

Where do you live in Chicago?

DaHuang: In Bridgeport, where the Art Center is. In 1986 when we moved there, there were no artists there. Bridgeport was most famous for the Daley family. It was an Irish neighborhood. Today it is an art district.

Are either of you married?

DaHuang: Yes, we are married. We have families here. My brother has a son, Michael, who is executive director of the Art Center in Chicago. I have a son who is 10 years old. He’s a hockey player. [Laughs.]

Your paintings reflect Chinese and western influences. How do those two cultures play out in your daily life and your sense of identity?

ShanZuo: I will start with a bit of history. In the ’80s, China was starting

Oil and mixed media on canvas painting from The Waterlily Pond of Life series.

to open up a little bit. My brother and I were considered leaders in the contemporary art movement. We had big traveling shows at the National Art Museum in Beijing and the National Museum in Shanghai. We were invited to exhibit in Chicago, and we moved there. In the ’90s we spent a lot of time in Europe, in Germany, England, Switzerland, and Austria. We had an exhibition in New York. We got a lot of influences from all those places. We had an exhibition in the late ’90s called Open My Door. The language was simpler but had more consciousness.

We still have very strong roots in 5,000 years of Chinese culture. And we have a lot of inspiration from the West, from life.

DaHuang: We have spent more of our lifetimes in America than in China. When we left China, I was in my 20s and now I’m 60-something already. [Laughs.] I’m Chinese in many ways, from the foods I grew up with to the things I like to do. But right now, I’m pretty into American food. When I’m in Kansas City, I love the ribs. My mind is Chinese, but my perspective is more Western. My wife is American. But when you grow up someplace for 20 years, that place is deeply in your soul and will always stay there.

ShanZuo, is your wife also American?

No, she is Chinese. She was a professional dancer in China.

You taught a philosophy of art for many years in Salzburg called “feelingism.” What is that and how does it manifest in your art?

Feeling is liberty, and it drives our art. It has power and mystery. When you look at [our art], you are strongly moved by it but you can’t explain why. As a philosophy, feelingism teaches students to seek out the greatest talent inside their minds; only feeling can lift them up to become a great artist. It is the greatest key for the artist.

Your paintings are all collaborations. How does that

work? Are you both painting on a canvas at the same time or do you pass it back and forth?

DaHuang: We have painted side by side. We have also painted in performances on a huge canvas that fills up the whole stage. When we work in the studio, we have many paintings working at the same time. We have always worked together since we started painting in 1973. So, we’ve been painting together for more than 50 years.

Why do you both choose to paint together instead of separately?

DaHuang: In the beginning, we did not think collaboration would become our career. But after we began collaborating, we saw the advantage of putting two minds and two spirits together. It’s like an orchestra with different instruments. When you put them together it makes something amazing.

This is especially true for art. Individually, artists think about harmony for perfection. But two people working together have a lot of trouble together, a lot of conflict. Many people might think conflict is a problem in collaboration, but the conflict makes the work much more powerful.

ShanZuo: Every artist creates his own mountain. But never have two artists worked for more than 50 years to create one mountain together.

DaHuang: In the ’90s, The New York Times did an article about our collaboration, and they said that the Zhou Brothers was probably the longest running collaboration in the world, and that was 30 years ago.

Left: DaHuang and ShanZuo Zhoushi painting a canvas. Below: The bothers at the Zhou B Art Center in Kansas City.

Interview condensed and minimally edited for clarity.

photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

Picture Perfect

SNAP UP A DAD’S DAY PRESENT WITH THESE GREAT GIFTABLES

IN BLACK & WHITE

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Men’s manicure set, $60, from The Little Flower Shop Randolph sunglasses, $275, from Hudson & Jane. Prada card wallet, $480, from Halls

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Seaward and Stearn pocket square, $87.50, from Newton James. Scrabble coaster set, $68 for four, from The Little Flower Shop. Desert Eau de Parfum, $90, from Ulah. Spivey cufflinks and studs set, $68, from Hudson & Jane

TRAVELIN’ MAN

Drake’s tie, $255, and Bennett Winch leather dopp kit, $700, both from Newton James. MCM wallet, $350, from Halls. Shoji Works shoe brush, $48, and Tangent GC shoehorn, $58, both from George a Lifestyle Store.

Orciani belt, $245, from Hudson & Jane. Seaward & Stearn tie, $175, from Newton James. The Floral Society clippers, $88, from George a Lifestyle Store. Brackish feather bow tie, $60, from The Little Flower Shop

REEL ‘EM IN

Zegna tiny butterflies tie, $250, and Oval tie bar, $25, both from Halls. Sailboat tie, $135, from Hudson & Jane. Secrid double card wallet, $155, from Trapp and Company. Bennett Winch card wallet, $205, from Newton James. Shinola watch, $1,050, from Ulah

IN FOCUS

Dapper Classics socks, $26.50, and Brouk flask, $40, both from Trapp and Company.Look Optic reading glasses, $85, from Halls. Secrid slim wallet, $99, from Ulah

PERFECT PATIOS

WHETHER SKY-HIGH OR NEXT TO THE STREET, KANSAS CITY’S PLETHORA OF PLEASANT PATIOS ARE A GREAT PLACE TO PARTY

words by Jenny Vergara

Here in the Midwest, there’s something positively magical about the arrival of warmer weather. When the sun begins to linger just a little longer in the sky, it can only mean one thing—patio season has finally arrived.

After a long, cold winter of dining indoors, patios across the city spring to life, buzzing with the hum of conversation and bursts of easy laughter. With the warmth of the sun and a soft breeze, the stage is set for something far more than just a meal.

Dining outside engages all your senses. Somehow, food tastes brighter and drinks seem sweeter when enjoyed beneath an open sky. Once seated on your favorite patio, it’s impossible not to peer out from behind your sunglasses to casually take in the scene. People-watching is a must on a patio. The mood is relaxed, yet the air feels electric. You fidget with your silverware, place your napkin in your lap, and swirl the melting ice in your empty cocktail glass, already considering whether to order another.

The tantalizing aroma of a grilled steak or a bubbling-hot pepperoni pizza wafts past as servers hustle plates to tables. A cork pops from a wine bottle across the patio, followed by the cheerful clink of glasses. Each sensory cue sharpens your appetite and awakens your curiosity—should you order a glass of wine, too?

Then your food arrives. Maybe it’s briny oysters kissed with mignonette, a perfectly crisp fish sandwich on a soft brioche bun slathered with a creamy dill sauce, or a cool, clean sushi roll. Whatever you are eating, the flavors seem to all come together and dance on your tongue in a way they rarely do indoors. Is it the best bite you’ll have all year? Maybe not, but it certainly feels like it in the moment.

As golden hour settles in and every word exchanged seems more meaningful, even on a crowded patio, connecting with a friend or loved one is definitely on the menu.

Perhaps it’s the fleeting nature of alfresco dining in the Midwest that makes it feel so special. It is like a secret shared only with those wise enough to savor it.

Blanc Champagne Bar

This popular champagne bar offers a chance to enjoy a glass of bubbles far above the street traffic at the Sun Club, their sky-high rooftop patio offering 360-degree views of Midtown. It’s an upscale spot to savor champagne, cocktails, and small bites while you take in the unique perspective of the city this rooftop offers. Reservations are recommended to ensure you have a seat waiting for you. blanconmain.com

Char Bar

Extra Virgin

Hot barbecue served with cool cocktails, wine, and beer paired with a large outdoor party patio is what Char Bar’s original location in Westport delivers. Now, they have added pickleball courts into the mix at their newest location in Parkville, with another opening soon in Olathe. Suddenly it’s game on at Char Bar. The spacious outdoor patios at both locations are the right spots to land after a competitive game or for a spirited happy hour. charbarbbq.com

Earl’s Premier

Channeling the breezy charm of a coastal oyster bar, the patio at Earl’s Premier nearly doubles the seating for this popular come-asyou-are neighborhood restaurant in East Brookside, which means more fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and bottles of crisp white wine or frozen gin and tonics are being enjoyed by more people this time of year. It is hard not to crave Earl’s tasty seafood menu when the weather gets nice, as it’s reminiscent of beloved trips to the shore. earlspremier.com

Electric Park Garden Bar

Electric Park Garden Bar at J. Rieger & Co. distillery in the East Bottoms is the patio to hit up with all of your friends in tow. The spacious patio has plenty of room for large parties to spread out and find comfortable seating. The handcrafted cocktails served from their outdoor container bar are a creative selection of boozy slushies and ice-cold creations that all use J. Rieger & Co. spirits. Finally, the menu delivers summertime’s greatest hits, including cheeseburgers and hot chicken and fries. jriegerco.com/eat-and-drink

The spacious outdoor patio at Extra Virgin is a Crossroads staple, with an awning that keeps guests cool while they enjoy small plates and a bottle of wine, beer, or cocktails. The menu is full of delicious sharable items, such as grilled octopus, chickpea fries with romesco sauce, cucumber salad with roasted peanuts, and a trio of mezze spreads with pita bread, to pair from their Mediterranean-inspired menu. Monday is pizza night with half-price bottles of wine, a deal so good you may never want to leave. extravirginkc.com

Gram & Dun

This patio has always been one of the best see-and-be-seen spots in Kansas City. Located on the Country Club Plaza, Gram & Dun boasts a spacious patio ideal for people-watching. With umbrellas for shade, guests can gather on modern outdoor furniture or reserve a highly sought-after table and a view of bustling Ward Parkway. It’s a prime spot to gather for drinks or a meal whenever the weather gets warm. gramanddun.com

Green Dirt on Oak

Nestled in the Crossroads Arts District, Green Dirt on Oak offers a farm-to-table experience that centers around their award-winning sheep’s milk cheese and lamb that comes from their farm in Weston. Order a cocktail or glass of wine and a cheese plate and head up to their rooftop patio for up-close views of downtown Kansas City. Join them the second Friday of every month for “Rhythm on the Roof,” live music on the roof starting at 7 p.m. with a $15 cover charge at the door. greendirtfarm.com/oak

Char Bar Parkville

Earl’s Premier

Electric Park Garden Bar

Extra Virgin Gram & Dun

Green Dirt on Oak

Horsefeather Social

Situated on the 7th floor facing west, there is no better downtown patio to watch the sun slowly set on the horizon than the Horsefeather Social located at the Loews Kansas City Hotel. Glass railing wraps the deck, so no matter where you’re sitting, the view is magical. With a relaxed vibe and open seating, diners enjoy tasty small plates, cocktails, spirit-free drinks, beer, and wine as they catch up with friends and catch the sunset. horsefeathersocial.com

Maloneys Sports Bar & Grill

Locally owned for 22 years, Maloneys Sports Bar & Grill has become one of the most popular double patios in downtown Overland Park. The expansive downstairs patio is partially covered and fully enclosed and heated during colder months, making it useable year-round. Upstairs, the rooftop patio was added in 2014 and features a full bar, perfect for enjoying sunny days or the evening breeze. The menu features a variety of pub fare, including a wide variety of classic appetizers, pizzas, sandwiches, and drink specials. maloneyssportsbar.com

Penny’s in the Village

Tucked into the heart of The Shops of Prairie Village, Penny’s in the Village is the latest culinary gem from restaurateurs Penny and Doug Mufuka, offering a vibrant homage to Thai street food. The menu features a variety of Thai-inspired shared plates, but it’s the patio that truly elevates the experience. Adorned with lush greenery, the outdoor space offers a serene escape, perfect for savoring a meal or sipping on one of the restaurant’s crafted cocktails, such as the Lemongrass Basil Margarita. pennysinthevillage.com

Percheron Rooftop Bar

Atop the Crossroads Hotel, Percheron is celebrated as one of the city’s premier rooftop bars, and with good reason. With sweeping views of both downtown Kansas City’s skyline to the north and of the Western Auto sign to the east paired with an inspiring Mediterranean menu paired with a fine selection of punches, slushees, cocktails, and zero-proof drinks, it’s a go-to for both locals and visitors seeking light and flavorful food and drink and the best views in the city. crossroadshotelkc.com/foodand-drink/percheron-rooftop-bar

The Reserve at Embassy Suites

The terrace patio at the Embassy Suites in Olathe offers a respite for hungry and thirsty travelers and locals alike, located right off K-10 and Ridgeview Road. It sits perched on top of the entrance to the hotel, and as the sun begins to set the patio has a cool and shady disposition. The modern patio design features cozy fire pits, sleek seating with bright blue cushions, and just enough greenery to soften the space. Whether winding down after a conference or meeting friends for a night out, The Reserve’s terrace patio is the place to enjoy a casual food and drink menu. thereserveattheembassy.com

Rye Leawood

Rye in Leawood is celebrated for its farm-to-table approach to comfort-food favorites, along with a busy bar serving crafted cocktails. Although both Rye locations offer outdoor dining, the waterside patio at Rye in Mission Farms is hard to resist. The executive chef, Ryan Williams, invites you to enjoy a leisurely alfresco lunch on the patio. At dinner, savor hearty

Maloneys Sports Bar & Grill

Percheron Rooftop Bar

The Reserve at Embassy Suites

Rye Leawood

steaks, fried chicken, salads, and sides. Stop in for a slice of pie or cake and a cup of coffee or cocktail on the spacious and welcoming patio for a real summertime treat. ryekc.com

Tailleur

The dining public might not realize that Tailleur offers a remarkably pretty outdoor patio behind their restaurant, where you can also find plenty of parking. Adorned with trés chic French café chairs and white marble tabletops, their patio is the very definition of a “best-kept secret” in Kansas City. The tilecovered outdoor patio feels like a cool and quaint place to land for a long lunch or dinner, prepared by talented local chef and James Beard semi-finalist, Jeff Workman. tailleuronmain.com

Teocali

L ocated in the Longfellow neighborhood, Teocali is a homegrown Mexican restaurant with a lot of heart. The restaurant has three distinct dining areas to enjoy tacos, sopes, enchiladas, and platters of sizzling fajitas, in addition to a truly impressive selection of tequila. Kick off early to sit on the spacious third-floor rooftop patio with views of the whole neighborhood while enjoying chips with queso fundido con chorizo and a frosty margarita in hand. teocali.com

Triune

Tucked just off Broadway Boulevard on Kansas City’s Westside, Triune offers more than just seriously good small plates (and

brunch) matched with a full array of craft cocktails, spirit-free drinks, wine, and beer. It also delivers a patio experience that is just as vibey as the restaurant itself. The modern patio tiers down from the restaurant’s front door and features landscaped beds and dramatic outdoor lighting with a variety of seating. triunekc.com

Vye Cocktail Lounge

The Vye Cocktail Lounge is a shiny newcomer to this list, and they want to elevate your cocktail experience in more ways than one. Located in the Crossroads, right on the streetcar line, Vye has a rooftop patio with views of Kansas City’s skyline mixed with impressive selection of classic crafted cocktails and signature drinks. Inside, the lounge exudes a chic ambience with exposed brick walls and club seating, with a VIP lounge upstairs that can be rented for private parties. Instagram: @vyeonmain

Wandering Vine

The lush garden terrace at the castle-like Shawnee landmark restaurant, Wandering Vine, has a real European feel, complete with fine food and wine. Enjoy something from their Terrace Time menu available Wednesday through Friday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 3 to 5:30 p.m. This aperitivostyle menu features snack-sized versions of their signature dishes for a steal, along with wine and beer specials and a specialty cocktail of the evening. wanderingvine.com

Tailleur

Teocali

Triune

Vye Cocktail Lounge

Wandering Vine

Coming Home

BOTH DESIGNER AND CLIENT MINED THEIR ROOTS FOR A HOME RENOVATION

words by Patricia O’Dell

Designer Ericka Howill grew up in Kansas City, but she spent more than ten years traveling and living away from her hometown. While she is thriving as a designer now, she didn’t start her career in the field. The first part of her career was dedicated to storytelling and the human experience.

“That time away—immersed in different cultures, homes, and ways of living—opened my eyes to the ways our homes tell stories and shape daily life,” Howill says. “Design is about more than aesthetics. It’s about creating spaces that hold memories, spark emotion, and reflect the lives living within them.”

Recently, she completed a renovation of her client Brian McCallister’s Westwood home that enabled her to flex her design muscle and fulfill his interest in restoration

photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

Opposite: Homeowner Brian McCallister with his dogs, Lilo and Dewey. This page: In the formal living room, three framed panels of a Backdrop wallpaper mural visually expand the space. The French early 19th-century chaise longue is from Myers & Monroe.

and craftsmanship.

McCallister has known Howill since she was in preschool with his son. He was thrilled to learn that she was working as a designer. “I always like connecting with aspiring creatives, so I reached out to Ericka to get her perspective on the house, and I loved her ideas,” he says.

It was a good fit for client and designer.

“He wanted to work with as many local craftspeople as possible,” Howill says. “Which was great, as we were working on a Craftsman

home, and the Craftsman movement was about rebelling against the industrial revolution and celebrating handmade.”

For this project, Howill was dedicated to honoring the spirit of the house while creating a space that reflects McCallister’s taste.

“It’s a historic home with incredible bones, so we took great care to preserve the original details—like exposing the 1916 brick fireplace—while layering in elements that feel personal, tactile, and unexpected,” Howill says.

McCallister was attracted to the house because of his deep appre-

Top, left: Interior designer Ericka Howill. Top, right: The classic Craftman exterior of the Westwood home. Bottom, left: Sheepskin throws and blue-plaid pillows soften a pair of leather club chairs in McCallister’s office. Bottom, right: In one corner of the sunroom addition, a cozy chair and ottoman occupy a sunny corner.

Howill designed and had craftsmen construct and install the rustic beams in the sunroom. A vintage rocking chair that belonged to McCallister’s grandfather sits next to the fireplace.

Above: In the dining room, a custom porcelain chandelier by the artist Linda Lighton hangs from a ceiling clad in Painted Paper wallcovering. Below: Cabinets and trim painted in Sherwin-Williams Forestwood pick up hues from the Mind the Gap wallpaper.

“I would have left the kitchen cabinets stained,” says McCallister. “Ericka encouraged me to paint them, and I’m over the moon with the results.”

ciation for craftsmanship. Where more modern modifications had been made, Howill was able to create an old-world quality and aesthetic through custom design and collaborations with experienced local craftsmen.

Still, there were a few challenges. The kitchen had been updated with a very contemporary feel, and the living room had newer built-ins around the fireplace.

Howill and McCallister agreed that removing these elements was a good idea. They had no hint of the happy surprise that awaited them.

“After taking out the built-ins, we discovered the original brick underneath,” Howill says. “From there, I designed a new mantel, and we had Peter Kohl, a local craftsman, build it.”

Still, the modern world tiptoes in. A television over the fireplace made sense, but neither McCallister nor designer wanted that look.

“We decided to use a multimedia piece of cut paper, ceramic flowers, and oil pastels of the owner’s farmhouse in Iowa, which was a special commission. He loved it when he saw it there,” she says.

In the dining room, McCallister was able to use his existing dining room chairs, but did not have a table that he was excited about using. Here, Howill suggested having Kohl make a custom piece. He agreed and the team stepped in to do the rest, with Howill designing the table and Kohl crafting it.

Deep jewel tones of emerald and amber on the walls create a rich and intimate atmosphere. It’s the kind of cozy cocoon that brings out the best at a dinner party— encouraging an extra drink, one more story. Which is a great excuse for the starry wallpaper on the ceiling and the custom chandelier by Linda Lighton. It’s nice to have something so interesting to look at as you throw your head back and laugh.

But McCallister is not all play and no work. His home office reflects a ded-

A guest bedroom is primed for relaxation with gray walls and warm neutrals. The art above the bed is a wonderful collection of pieces featuring elements of nature.

Opposite, top: An upstairs sunporch was converted into a cozy media room.

Opposite, bottom: The powder room maintains its original stained glass and built-in cabinetry. Ottoline wallpaper highlights the cove ceiling.

ication for meeting deadlines in the best surroundings. A traditional rug underfoot provides the groundwork for cozy leather chairs that look as if they could host worldly friends, clients, or colleagues. The formal crystal chandelier is juxtaposed with the vintage typewriter, the presence of which should spark many interesting conversations.

The sunroom, part of an addition created by previous owners, with its pitched ceiling and roughhewn beams, that Howill designed and added, is filled with objects sure to start conversations. “I added beams to make the space feel more historic, rustic, and masculine,” Howill says.

The next project is the primary bedroom. McCallister does not suffer from design fatigue in the least.

He notes that his trust in Howill paid off in unexpected ways. “I really respect that she will encourage a client to think outside their box. I would have left the kitchen cabinets stained as they were. Ericka encouraged me to paint them, and I’m over the moon with the results.”

Howill’s focus on how a space feels is as important as how it looks. This enhances the finished product. She feels this goes beyond fabric and paint colors.

“I always start with the senses,” Howill says. “We read our envi-

ronment through sound, scent, touch, and light. It’s how we connect to our environment both physically and emotionally,” she says. “Good design isn’t just about how a space looks, but how it feels and supports the rhythms of the people who live there.”

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by Jenny Vergara

Reservation for One TIKI TACO

photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

For the past eight years, Tiki Taco has charmed Kansas City diners with a menu as playful as its pineapple-shaped tiki glassware. Known for fusing bold Asian flavors with Mexican street food, the result is a sunsoaked, Cali-style mashup that’s anything but ordinary. Think of clever tacos and oversized burritos, like the one filled with Thai chili pork, fried eggs, peppers, onions, and rice, all wrapped in a flour tortilla. Pair that with one of their tropical-inspired cocktails, and you've got yourself a beach party in the middle of the Midwest.

But this neighborhood hangout isn’t resting on its laurels, instead it’s growing by leaps and bounds. In the last two years alone, Tiki Taco has expanded to three locations across the metro: the original on 39th Street, a second on Troost Avenue, and a third in downtown Overland

Park, which opened earlier this year. Now, the team has announced construction on a fourth outpost in Olathe, at 119th Street and Black Bob Road, and signed a lease for a fifth spot in downtown Shawnee at 11200 Johnson Drive.

To celebrate just how far Tiki Taco has come, you have to go back to where it all began.

The first Tiki Taco opened in June of 2017 on restaurant row on 39th Street, slinging burritos, elote, chimichangas, and tacos from a modest walk-up window. Founded by California transplants Christina McIntosh and Tyler Herndon, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite. Anyone might find themselves among the late-night crowd lined up for tacos, chatting on the sidewalk with friends and neighbors while music is pumped from outdoor speakers. With hours stretching to 1

The bar at Tiki Taco in Overland Park.

a.m. on weeknights and 3 a.m. on weekends, it was the unofficial afterparty for neighborhood bar hoppers, medical students and employees from KU Med, and chefs getting off work.

But after three years of nonstop service, the original owners were ready to move on. The long hours, staffing challenges, and financial limitations of the walk-up window format led them to sell the business. Enter local entrepreneurs and brothers Lindsey and Lyndon Wade, their mother, Judy Rush, and two key hires: the chef Richard Wiles (co-founder of Westport Café & Bar) and Jason Kinslow (formerly with Bread & Butter Concepts), who joined as the director of operations. The group acquired Tiki Taco just before the pandemic hit in 2020.

Instead of hitting pause, they got rolling. During the shutdown, they knocked down a wall to expand into the space next door on 39th Street, creating an indoor dining room for 40, and hiring local artists to bring a vibrant new look to the interiors. Wiles updated the menu to include more vegan and vegetarian items and added new Korean and Thai global flavors to the menu, alongside an expanded lineup of island-style tiki cocktails.

Once the flagship location was refreshed, the team set their sights on expansion. Their second location opened near UMKC and Rockhurst in a groovy repurposed coffee shop at 54th and Troost, complete with

The KC Burrito.

Flavor IN KC

its now signature color palette of white, yellow, and red tile on the walls, at the cocktail bar, and with the patio seating. Two years later, they debuted a third location just off the main strip in downtown Overland Park.

Now, with momentum on their side, the team is planning four additional Kansas City–area restaurants in Lee’s Summit, Liberty, Parkville, and south Overland Park. To help lead this ambitious next chapter, they’ve brought on a new CEO and partner, Eric Knott, a seasoned restaurant executive who moved from Florida to Kansas City specifically for the opportunity. Known for his strategic, scalable approach to growth, Knott has joined “Team Tiki” to help transform the concept into a national brand.

The exterior of the newest outpost in downtown Overland Park echoes the Troost spot’s clean aesthetic, complete with a welcoming patio, colorful cocktail bar, and table seating inside. Tacos and burritos are a mainstay of the menu, but it also includes a lineup of other craveable items: nachos, quesadillas, and their indulgent loaded Tiki fries. You can add steak, chicken, pork, and seafood, along with thoughtful vegan and vegetarian options, to any dish. A nod to their commitment to local quality is their use of Yoli Tortilleria’s award-winning corn tortillas for several of their taco offerings.

There are three options for dessert. The cheesecake chimi starts with cheesecake filling wrapped in a flour tortilla, fried until golden, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and drizzled with raspberry syrup, and it is a playful crowd-pleaser. Churros with a rotating seasonal filling are another sweet option, but a not-to-miss is the Tiki Choco Taco. A local riff on

the nostalgic ice cream novelty, this version is made by High Hopes Ice Cream and features cinnamon-spiced churro ice cream tucked into a waffle-cone taco shell, dipped in chocolate, and frozen. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spiced, it’s arguably even better than the original.

The warm evening I arrived meant the patio was the perfect place to dine. A lively group next to me was working their way through a table full of tacos and a pitcher of margaritas, laughter rising over the music and clinking glasses. It was easy to see how downtown Overland Park has evolved, thanks in part to the influx of new apartments surrounding it. A nearby table of young women confirmed it, chatting casually about being thrilled they could just walk over from their apartment down the block.

To start, I dug into a small bowl of creamy white queso with a satisfying pile of perfectly salted tortilla chips. The portion of queso was modest—is there such a thing as enough queso, friends?—but it paired nicely with the vibrant Island Time margarita, bright with citrus and layered with Una Vida reposado tequila, Cointreau, and Grand Marnier, served in a festive pineapple-shaped jar.

A mix-and-match trio of tacos on the menu allows diners to choose from street-style tacos on Yoli corn tortillas, or they can opt for soft flour or hard corn shells with classic lettuce, tomato, and cheese—what we lovingly call “Mom tacos” in my house.

Two tacos arrived in one basket: a carnitas street taco with onion, cilantro, and lime on a warm corn tortilla, and an al pastor taco with pork and pineapple. While the carnitas taco delivered tender, flavorful, meat with a great balance of seasoning and acidity, the al pastor unfortunately

A Thai chicken taco and a grilled shrimp taco.

arrived ice cold, dulling the impact of this popular flavor combination.

The third taco was a sautéed mushroom version tucked inside a crispy corn shell that was a surprising highlight. Savory, earthy, and well-seasoned, it packed all the umami of meat without any actual meat. The crisp shell paired perfectly with the fresh lettuce, tomato, and cheese, offering a satisfying contrast in texture and temperature.

A couple of Tiki Taco’s fusion favorites are an essential addition to a plate. The Japanese-style tempura Baja fish taco featured a light, crispy fish fillet nestled in shredded cabbage, spicy ranch-style Baja sauce, pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of queso fresco. It was a fresh, crunchy bite with

just enough creaminess. But the Korean beef taco stole the show with its tender marinated rib eye, pico, and cucumber dressed in a bold Korean barbecue sauce spiked with sweet, savory gochujang. The flavors were rich, slightly funky, and delicious.

You know it has been a good meal when you leave planning what you will order the next time. I’ve got my sights set on the stuffed burritos and nachos, and perhaps I’ll get the Paloma to go with it.

With vibrant, flavor-forward food, clever drinks, and clear momentum behind its locally owned brand, Tiki Taco feels poised for big things. Its future looks as bright as its signature neon sign. tikitaco.com

Left: Customers order at the counter. Right: Tiki Taco's patio.

by Jenny Vergara photo by Alyssa Broadus

In Your Cocktail MURMURATION EATERY & COCKTAIL BAR

The City Market has a new reason for visitors to linger a little longer: Murmuration Eatery & Cocktail Bar, the latest venture from longtime tenant City Market Coffee Roasters. Owner Nikole Ammer bought the tiny coffee shop back in 2006 after spending four years roasting beans behind the counter. Now, nearly two decades later, she’s expanded her footprint and her vision by acquiring the neighboring space and tearing down the 14-foot wall that once separated her coffee shop from the former Daily Kitchen. In April, Murmuration officially opened its doors, welcoming guests with comfort food, craft cocktails, and a soaring sense of community.

Inside, a stunning mural by local artist Emily Alvarez stretches toward the ceiling, depicting a flock of Missouri birds gliding

across a bright blue sky—a visual nod to the restaurant’s name. A murmuration refers to a gathering of birds moving as one, creating both safety and beauty, and Ammer hopes her new space will do much the same—offer connection, comfort, and camaraderie for all who enter.

Ammer and her team continue to roast and pour City Market Coffee on one side of the newly expanded space, while the other side hums all day long with comforting, creative fare. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays, Murmuration serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it a welcome all-day hangout for coffee sippers and cocktail seekers alike.

Breakfast delivers a feast of options, from the original breakfast burrito stuffed with hashbrowns, scrambled eggs, and cheddar cheese, to a vegan version featuring Soyrizo, breakfast potatoes, chickpea scramble, fresh spinach, and a dash of vegan hot sauce. There’s also avocado toast, a groovy breakfast club sandwich, veggie and Southwest-style omelets, and hearty biscuits smothered in either sausage or mushroom gravy. For heartier appetites, the Country Pile layers wheat toast with crispy hashbrowns, chopped bacon, sautéed onions, cheddar cheese, an over-medium egg, and a generous ladle of sausage gravy.

At lunch and dinner, the menu shifts to fresh, craveable salads, warm grain bowls, scratch-made soups, and an enticing lineup of sandwiches, plus rotating specials available exclusively in the evenings.

On weekends, shoppers weaving through the City Market can grab a snack designed for strolling: mini waffles on a stick, filled donut holes, and golden-brown tornado fries, which are spiral-cut potatoes fried un-

Blueberry Pineapple

Tequila Sour

til crispy and threaded onto long skewers.

True to her farmers market roots, Ammer has also created a thoughtful cocktail and mocktail program that celebrates fresh, seasonal flavors. She hopes her happy hour will become a natural extension of her morning coffee community—bringing people together at the end of the day just as easily as they gather at sunrise.

Signature drinks include the Shake Your Gin Feather, a refreshing blend of Tanqueray gin, ginger simple syrup, lime, and club soda. Coffee lovers can indulge in one of eight spiked coffee drinks or the beloved espresso martini, alongside a curated list of wines and beers.

One standout on the cocktail menu is the Blueberry Pineapple Tequila Sour, a bright and sunny concoction created by bartender Matt Clipp that layers tart citrus with sweet tropical fruits and tequila. It’s the kind of drink that practically demands a toast—to good friends, good food, and the beauty of being together. murmurationeatery.com

Blueberry Pineapple Tequila Sour

2 ounces Espolon Tequila

1 ounce sour mix*

1 ounce fresh pineapple juice

1 ounce blueberr y syrup**

Combine all of the ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a rocks glass and top with ice. Garnish with three blueberries and a piece of fresh pineapple.

*SOUR MIX

¼ cup honey simple syrup (1:1 honey to water, heated until honey dissolves)

2 cups lemon juice

1 cup lime juice

¹/₈ cup orange juice

Combine all ingredients together until dissolved. Syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

**BLUEBERRY SYRUP

3 cups frozen blueberries

¼ cup sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

¼ cup water

Bring all ingredients to a simmer over medium heat, stirring often. Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend with immersion blender until smooth. Strain syrup through a fine mesh strainer and chill.

by Jenny Vergara

MOON BAR

THE WORD OMOTENASHI comes from the deep-rooted culture surrounding the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. It refers to taking care of guests with your whole heart. It's something that local bartenders Saranya and Zachary Hubbard have been introducing to Kansas City at their monthly pop-ups for Moon Bar. Crafting each cocktail with intention, harmoniously balancing the flavors, while providing a high level of anticipatory service has become the hallmark of a night spent enjoying Asian-inspired cocktails and small plates at Moon Bar pop-ups. Now they’ve announced they have found a permanent home for their traveling cocktail show. It’s in Columbus Park, and when it opens at the end of this year, it will serve as a tea house by day, serving a selection of Asian teas, and a cocktail bar at night. Saranya came to Kansas City in 2020 after bartending in Bangkok, Thailand, and quickly decided that there was room here to show off her Japanese bartending-style cocktails and accompanying bar snacks. She and Zach, who is also a bartender, opened Moon Bar as a pop-up concept until they could secure a place of their own. Pop-up dates are scheduled monthly until the opening. Go to the Moon Bar website to subscribe, or follow on Instagram. moonbarkc.com

by Jenny Vergara

THE FAIRWAY?

LOCAL REAL-ESTATE DEVELOPER, restaurateur, and vineyard owner, Whitney VinZant, knows a good opportunity when he sees it, and he sees nothing but potential in the long-vacated, former Houlihan’s spot located at the west end of The Shops at Fairway. With a long list of Kansas City restaurant concepts that he owns and operates under W.VinZant Restaurants, he approached the Fairway City Council earlier this year with a winning proposal to open The Fairway. It’s a restaurant concept loosely based on another of his restaurants, The Brew Top, a family-friendly spot with an outdoor patio, firepit, and elevated bar-food menu. VinZant told the Fairway City Council that his restaurant group needs a capital investment up front to get the doors open because the building has been sitting vacant for over five years, and he has proposed creating a community improvement district that would allow the ability to charge an additional sales tax to every purchase at the new restaurant that would help offset the cost to get the doors open again. The mayor and city council members are working out the details of the financial plan now, so fingers crossed they come to an agreement soon.

Flavor IN KC

by Jenny Vergara

SOLI DEO COFFEE + BAKERY

LOCAL RESTAURATEUR Heather White closed her bakery, Enchanté, in March after ongoing KC Streetcar construction and other challenges slowed her ability to gain traction for her beautifully decorated bakery. But now, it’s reopened with a new name and a new owner. Austin Morris, who also owns the wedding photography and video production company Aventi Weddings, opened Soli Deo Coffee + Bakery in April. The name he selected is based on a Latin phrase that means “to God alone,” and Morris has assured fans of Enchanté that he is not planning to change the aesthetic or feeling that Heather White created there. He simply wants the opportunity for good coffee and pastry to continue in that space. Soli Deo Coffee + Bakery is open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday offering barista coffee drinks and a selection of teas, along with a daily selection of pastries. On social media, Morris says that he wants his coffee shop to be a place that welcomes everyone to come and cultivate connection, creativity, and quiet moments of reflection. solideocafe.com

The Hottest Golf Cart on the Market Today

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Furnished with every imaginable feature, this forward-facing four-seater comes in six stylish colors and two height options. Premium wheels and tires provide a solid foundation for every journey on every terrain, no matter what lift height is selected. With an abundance of storage, superior sound system and speakers, and stunning accent lighting, this EPIC golf cart illuminates the possibilities for fun and adventure.

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Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City Showroom Grand Opening

ON APRIL 24, Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City celebrated the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art showroom in Merriam. The event marked a significant milestone for the dealership, formerly known as Aristocrat Mercedes-Benz, as it unveiled its rebranded identity and relocated facility designed to enhance the luxury automotive experience. The evening featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the City of Merriam, guided showroom tours, exclusive model previews, and light refreshments. For more photos go to inkansascity.com/photos.

photos by allison bush-kingsley

My Essentials IN KC

Maxfield’s essentials...

CHOICE CHARITIES:

Kanbe’s works with dozens of Hunger Relief Partners, a network of organizations committed to feeding our community. We share our warehouse with Urban Produce Push, KC Can Compost, the Kansas City Food Hub, Dotte Mobile Grocer, and Nourish KC

BEST BITE:

I feel like this is impossible to answer.

My short list: the Szechuan wings at Noka, a Double from Disco Bürger outside Varsity Club, or pretty much anything I can get my hands on from Babba’s Pantry

MAXFIELD KANIGER

ENTREPRENEUR. FOODIE. PHILANTHROPIST.

Mby Evan Pagano

axfield Kaniger grew up around good food and generosity. His parents owned Venue, a well-known Plaza restaurant where his dad was the chef. Their Thanksgivings in Brookside were massive, open-door affairs, with up to 70 people attending, and backyard barbecues were much the same.

After high school, Kaniger spent time in the University of Missouri System, with stops in Australia, Spain, India, and Hawaii along the way. He stayed in Hawaii the longest—about a year working for a tour company— and there he learned that his relationship to food wasn’t the norm. He says his co-workers were putting in 60-hour weeks and “still struggling to put food on the table. And especially good food on the table.”

He came home to Kansas City and found that thousands of people in eastern Kansas City weren’t near a grocery store with affordable produce; many walked to corner stores with limited, low-quality options. (Many still do.)

Kaniger wanted to help, so after some research, he decided to go where the people were already shopping. In 2016, he founded the nonprofit Kanbe’s Markets, and set up its first outpost: a cooler full of fresh, affordable produce in one of those corner stores. The day of its installation, he wasn’t sure it would work.

“We sold our first bit of produce while it was still in my pickup truck. Miss Barbara White bought a head of broccoli right there.”

Nine years later, Kanbe’s Markets brings in over one million pounds of donated produce annually and stocks more than 75 Healthy Corner Stores in Kansas City. He plans to expand to 130 by the end of the year, with the goal of ending food injustice in Kansas City.

Kanbe’s Market runs on donations. Learn more about supporting at kanbesmarkets.org

CAN’T-MISS EVENT:

Kanbe’s hosts an Ugly Dinner series, where we celebrate the beauty of “ugly” produce with some of the best restaurants in town. These dinners bring people together to talk about how we can improve our food systems while highlighting the value of “cosmetically undesirable” fruits and vegetables.

HIDDEN GEM:

French Custard in Brookside! The owners, Alex and Jess, are good friends—and big supporters of Kanbe’s— so it’s been fun to watch the shop grow for the past two years.

STITCH FIX:

If you’re looking to repair, alter, patch, or chainstitch something from your wardrobe, Alyx Jacobs should be your first call. She’s a Kanbe’s Grassroots Grower and has been an incredible advocate for our community!

SUMMER FUN:

Enjoy our parks! I love to waste a Saturday or Sunday afternoon at Loose Park, Kessler Park, or the Berkley Riverfront.

CAFFEINE FIX:

A few of my personal favorites are Mildred’s, Chingu Coffee, Anchor Island Coffee, Oddly Correct, and Café Corazón Equal Minded Café on Troost is a Kanbe’s Healthy Corner Store.

photo by bridget chang

Sid Mashburn | Greyson Clothiers | Saint James | Drake’s | Seaward & Stearn | Ralph Lauren | Jack Donnelly | Sunspel

Edwin | Chrysalis | Original Madras Trading Co. | Bennett Winch | Joseph Cheaney & Sons | Sanders Shoes | Pastori