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30 OF KANSAS CITY’S BEST BUTCHERS AND BAKERS

Innovators Influencers AND

12 KANSAS CITIANS WHO ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE

SEPTEMBER 2026 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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a l o y o g a • a n t h r o p o l o g i e • a p p l e • t h e c a p i ta l g r i l l e • c o a c h cooper’s hawk winery • free people • gram & dun • j.crew • jh and sons kendra scott • loveshackfancy • lululemon • mersea • messenger coffee prize home + garden • terrasi living & scandia home • tivol • topsy’s true food kitchen • tumi • veronica beard • west elm (partial store listing)

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Contents SEPTEMBER 2026 64

70 Features 64

Meet 12 people who are making a difference in Kansas City.

A tired ’60s ranch is transformed into a state-of-the-art sanctuary for a busy professional couple.

2026 INNOVATORS AND INFLUENCERS

HOME AS HAVEN

THE BUTCHER, THE BAKER, THE … The culinary crafts in Kansas City.

Departments 16

ENTERTAINING IN KC

OUR MAN IN KC

ARTS & CULTURE IN KC

HEALTH IN KC

LIVING IN KC

FLAVOR IN KC

IN EVERY ISSUE

On the cover The 2026 Innovators and Influencers. Photo by Kenny Johnson

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 8 | INKANSASCITY.COM

EDITOR’S NOTE

INKANSASCITY.COM

THIS MONTH IN KC

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Editor’s Note

Vol. 9 | No. 9 SEPTEMBER 2026

Within These Pages

photo by jenny wheat

Editor In Chief Zim Loy

t’s our sixth annual Innovators & Influencers issue. Our concept, which we launched in 2021, was to honor ten “people of the year” making a difference in Kansas City in ten categories. On this month’s cover, you’ll find 12 people who are this year’s honorees. (We had planned for a nice, round ten, but sometimes it takes a village!) All 12 were interviewed; you’ll find their stories beginning on page 64. We quizzed Kansas Citians knowledgeable in each of the ten categories and winnowed it down to the 12 folks you’ll read about in this issue. You’ll be impressed by the talented, wildly diverse group of movers and shakers represented this year. From an author of award-winning graphic novels (Newbery Honor award-winning!) to a chef reinventing Midwestern cuisine, there will be someone everyone knows and someone you’ve never heard of. But they are all accomplished in their fields. It’s a much longer read than you’ll usually find in our pages, but we hope you’ll feel it’s worth your time. I think you’ll become engrossed in their backstories and how they’ve achieved the success they’re being honored for here. We again approached the writer of all five previous features, Katie Van Luchene, to write the profiles. In one of the many emails we traded back and forth, she typed: “Truly inspirational people. I always have my favorites. I’d love to hear yours.” And I’d love to hear yours! My email address is listed in the masthead next to this column. But of course, there’s much more within these pages. Jenny Vergara did the research and assembled a list of 30 of Kansas City’s notable butchers and bakers. (We left the candlestick makers off the list this time.) These neighborhood butcher shops and bakeries are where you can find the ingredients to make memorable meals, or just a sweet treat to go along with your morning coffee. You’ll get inspired just reading the story beginning on page 70. Starting on page 74, Judith Fertig reports on a Prairie Village home that is featured on this year’s Renovation Sensation Tour. The just-married couple wanted to create a sanctuary for themselves, and they’ve succeeded admirably. It’s stunning, and I think you’ll agree. I hope you’ll find this issue an evocative mix of stories you want to read and stories you need to read. Zim

Digital Editor Evan Pagano Art Director Alice Govert Bryan Contributing Writers Susan Cannon, Judith Fertig, Merrily Jackson, Damian Lair, Katie Van Luchene, Jenny Vergara Contributing Photographers Kenny Johnson, Aaron Leimkuehler Publisher Michelle Jolles Media Director Brittany Coale Senior Media Consultants Katie Delzer, Nicole Kube, Krista Markley, Josie Rawlings Newsstand Consultant Joe J. Luca, JK Associates 816-213-4101, jkassoc.net

Editorial Questions: zloy@inkansascity.com

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The crust of the matter. Our team dines all over the Kansas City metro, and inevitably, we find our go-tos. So why not share? This month, we’re talking sandwiches— that legendary Reuben, that perfect panini, that lox bagel you wake up thinking about. We list our favorites in the Restaurants section of inkansascity.com.

ENTER TO WIN A silver anniversary special. In celebration of 25 years in business, AesthetiCare MedSpa + Wellness is offering one lucky IN Kansas City reader a free HydraFacial and consultation, valued at $269. Enter to win at inkansascity.com/the-magazine/enter-to-win by September 30. Good luck! FOLLOW US

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Let’s pop some tags. With fall a stiff breeze

away, you shouldn’t freeze out Kansas City’s thrift stores when reinforcing your wardrobe, refreshing your bookshelf, or searching for novelties to fend off those post-summer blues. We listed the area’s top shops on inkansascity.com.

It’s back! After a year in the dark, the

Western Auto sign lit up—all 3,000 bulbs of it—in late August. You can see it seven stories up at 2107 Grand Boulevard, then read our breakdown of the restoration on inkansascity.com.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 12 | INKANSASCITY.COM

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER subscribe at INKANSASCITY.COM (under The Magazine tab)

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• Asset Protection • Business Succession • Real Estate • Philanthropy • Investments • Tax • Legal • Insurance

• Banking • Accounting Bill Eckert is a Senior Financial Advisor at Renaissance Financial Corporation in Overland Park, KS. Bill manages Family Offices for his high-net-worth clients to provide private wealth management through tax and estate planning, risk management, investment management, trusteeship, lifestyle and concierge services, philanthropic strategies, and the coordination of other financial professionals. Many people don’t think they have enough assets to require a family office, but that’s not always the case. It’s not just the amount of assets that matter; it’s also the type of assets. Bill specializes in looking at the whole picture and providing these services to his clients. Our Family Office can be modified to fit anyone’s needs.

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This Month IN KC

September

WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AND WHAT YOU NEED TO SEE by Evan Pagano

Terra Luna September 10–12, 17–19 Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens artsandrec-op.org/arboretum/terra-luna A moonlit wonder. Every September, the performing arts group Quixotic envelops the trails at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens with ethereal light and sound. For six nights, the daytime delight becomes an explorable electric-lunar landscape. Terra Luna returns this year with expanded installations and three adults-only nights—September 10, 11, and 17. Ticket options range from $22.68 for kids 2–12 to $63.10 for a VIP Fast Pass. Funds raised benefit year-round programming and improvements at the Arboretum.

A Taste of Leawood September 12 Park Place events.humanitix.com/a-taste-of-leawood One for the foodies. On the second Saturday evening of September, an impressive spread of food vendors—including from such notable restaurants as Affäre, Bamboo Penny’s, Kata Nori Hand Roll Bar, Meat Mitch BBQ , and Urban—will fill the streets of Park Place. Drinks will flow, shops will stay open late, and music by the Ragged Heirs will fill the late summer air. General admission ($100) grants unlimited food and non-alcoholic drinks, plus three libation tickets; VIP admission ($200) unlocks exclusive bites, sips, and spaces.

SEPTEMBER SPOTLIGHT Fairs and Festivals Various dates and locations A jam-packed finale. Kansas City doesn’t let summer end, or fall begin, without a proper party. Fairs and festivals fill the September calendar. An impressive run of art fairs begins with Art Westport (September 11–13), a 46-year tradition that spotlights over 100 local artists and pumps even more life into a lively neighborhood. It resumes September 25–27 with the Plaza Art Fair, a colossal cultural mainstay in its 95th year, in addition to the most multidisciplinary fair of the bunch, the 18th & Vine Arts Festival. September’s lineup of cultural festivals starts on Labor Day weekend with Kansas City Irish Fest (September 4–6) in Crown Center and Santa-Cali-Gon Days (September 4–7) in Independence. The next weekend includes Johnson County Old Settlers Days (September 10–12) in Olathe and the beloved Kansas City Greek Festival (September 11–13) at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. And on the first weekend of fall, the Overland Park Fall Festival (September 25–26) will bring all manner of family fun to downtown OP.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 14 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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Entertaining IN KC

The Lost Art of Making Introductions by Merrily Jackson

mjackson@inkansascity.com

can’t tell you how many times I’ve introduced two people only to have one of them laugh and say, “Merrily, we’ve known each other for years.” It’s a little embarrassing, but it hasn’t stopped me from being an aggressive introducer. I’d much rather make the occasional gaffe than miss the opportunity to introduce, even in passing, two people who might enjoy meeting each other. It seems to me we’ve gotten out of the habit of introducing people to one another. I’ve been to beautiful parties where, somehow, no one ever thought to introduce anybody. To be sure, many people are perfectly comfortable walking up to a stranger and introducing themselves. But not everyone is, and I think most of us find it easier to strike up a conversation after someone has broken the ice. A simple introduction is one of the most generous things a host can do for guests. Some forethought pays off. One of my favorite parts of entertaining

is introducing people I think will enjoy each other. Before larger parties, I often make myself a little list of guests I’d like to introduce. I’m certainly not batting a thousand. Every introduction doesn’t blossom into a lifelong friendship. But occasionally, I look across the room and see two people deep in conversation whom I introduced earlier, and that feels marvelous. Give people somewhere to begin. I don’t hold with those who say you shouldn’t bring up jobs when making an introduction. Sometimes that’s the case. But most people enjoy talking about their work, if only as a launching pad to other topics. Case in point: if I’m introducing my friend Sidonie Garrett, I’ll probably mention that she’s the producing artistic director of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival. Not because her occupation defines her, but because it’s interesting, and people almost always have a ques-

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 16 | INKANSASCITY.COM

tion or two about producing Shakespeare outdoors in Kansas City. Other times, I offer details that have nothing to do with a profession. “This is Susan. She is a docent at the Nelson and just got back from Portugal.” “Tom restored the house he grew up in, and he saw The Odyssey three times.” You don’t need to go on and on. Say just enough to get the conversation started. Better to introduce imperfectly than not at all. Old-school etiquette books devoted an astonishing amount of ink to the proper order of introductions. There were rules about age, gender, rank, and precedence, and I’m sure they all made perfect sense at one time. Today, I think most people care far more about being included than whether the introduction was technically correct. Names are hard. Give yourself a little grace if you forget someone’s name almost as soon as you’ve heard it. It’s perfectly normal. Sometimes a name simply goes in one ear and out the other, especially at a gathering where you’re meeting new people while trying to carry on a conversation at the same time. Group introductions are even harder. So if one name can be elusive,

it’s no wonder we can’t remember six people after being introduced to them in the space of a minute or two. No one expects you to remember everyone. If you’ve retained one or two names by the time cocktails are served, you’re doing just fine. When your mind goes blank. If you run into someone who greets you warmly by name while you’ve completely forgotten theirs, resist the temptation to bluff your way through it. A simple, cheerful, “I’m so sorry. I’ve completely blanked on your name,” is almost always met with a smile and a quick reminder. We’ve all been there. Throw them a lifeline. If you’re greeting someone you haven’t seen in a while, consider working your own name into the greeting. It’s a gracious way to spare the other person the embarrassment of searching for it. If they remembered your name all along, no harm done. If they didn’t, you’ve done them a kindness. Don’t miss the opportunity. The next time you have people over, remember to make introductions. And don’t limit the practice to parties. If you’re out with a friend and happen to run into other friends, take a moment to introduce everyone. Whether it’s at a restaurant, in a theater lobby, or before a concert, some of the nicest introductions happen completely by chance. It only takes a few seconds, and it’s a thoughtful thing to do. And if you accidentally introduce two people who used to date, don’t worry about it. Welcome to the club.

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Entertaining IN KC

MAKING CONNECTIONS Merrily

Kate Middleton Sophie Wessex +44 20 4497 8324 we s s ex s @ gm ai l . c o m

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STICK WITH ME Peel-and-stick name tags may not be glamorous, but at a large gathering where guests don’t know one another, they’re worth their weight in gold. Knowing someone’s name makes it much easier to start a conversation or introduce them to someone else. Floral nametags available at target.com, $20 for 80.

MODERN-DAY CALLING CARDS Nothing says, “I’m delighted to have met you,” quite like a beautiful calling card. Local artist Trish Podlasek, owner of Cuorebella at Mission Farms, designs custom cards featuring her original watercolor art. The names on these samples? Let’s just say the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and Lady Sarah Chatto haven’t placed their orders... yet. Prices start at $125 for 50 cards.

SEEN FROM BOTH SIDES Traditional folded place cards only help guests find their seats. A raised place card holder with names on both sides helps everyone remember who’s who, making introductions and conversation much easier. Available at Williams Sonoma, $49.95 for a set of four.

POCKET-SIZED POLISH You never know when a new introduction might lead to a friendship, a client, or an invitation. A chic card case, like this Dolce & Gabbana laminated calfskin version, keeps your business cards (or Trish Podlasek custom calling cards) looking as polished as you do. Available at Halls for $395. NEED A NUDGE? I’m not a big fan of “facilitating” conversation, but sometimes one must. Beautifully designed conversation cards can rescue those first few awkward minutes before dinner. Pull one out only when the conversation needs a little encouragement. Dinner party conversation cards available at tabletopics.com, $25.

A LITTLE HOMEWORK Before larger parties, I jot down the names of people I’d like to introduce. A smart-looking host’s notebook is a great place to keep guest lists, menus and those little matchmaking ideas for future gatherings. Slimline journal with back pocket and ribbon bookmarks available through Rainy Day Books, $12.99.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 18 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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Entertaining IN KC

A Cocktail Party Classic Many introductions happen over cocktails, and there’s something about a warm dip that encourages people to linger. This one comes from my friend Steven Stolman’s delightful book, Confessions of a Serial Entertainer, and it’s just right for a casual cocktail gathering. Serves 6 to 8. Multiply for larger groups.

THAT OLD ARTICHOKE DIP 1 14-ounce can quartered artichoke hearts 2 tablespoons minced onion

1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup sour cream 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup sliced almonds Drain artichokes and chop coarsely. In a medium bowl, combine artichokes, onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Pour mixture into a 2-cup ovenproof baking dish. Top with almonds and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Serve warm with crackers, pita chips, sliced baguette, or crisp vegetables. Then stand back. It won’t last long.

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Entertaining IN KC

ASK MERRILY

Find answers to all your entertaining questions.

spend many minutes talking only to each other (God forbid!). Presumably they’re there to meet new people, and sometimes all they need is a gentle nudge in separate directions.

Q: Is it okay to pull out my phone after meeting someone so we can connect on social media?

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

Q: Is it rude to interrupt two people who are deep in conversation if I’d like to introduce myself?

A: Not if you do it gracefully. Wait for a natural pause, smile, and say,

“I hate to interrupt, but I wanted to say hello.” Then keep it brief. If they’re in the middle of a serious conversation, they’ll return to it. If not, you’ve just joined it. And here’s another thought. If you notice someone trapped in a conversation with a person who simply won’t stop talking, don’t be afraid to step in. Make an introduction, whisk them away, or simply draw them into another conversation. I call it a party ambulance, and every good guest knows how to drive one. A party ambulance can also be useful when husbands and wives

A: Certainly, if it feels natural. Just don’t let your phone become the star

of the conversation. Spend a few minutes getting to know the person first.

Q: Is it rude to ask someone, "How do you know the host?" A: Quite the opposite. It’s one of the easiest and most natural conversation starters at any party. Just don’t make it your only question.

Q: When someone says, "We should get together sometime," do they really mean it?

A: Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Rather than trying to decode it, take

it as a pleasant sentiment. If you’d genuinely like to see them again, suggest something specific. If they respond enthusiastically, wonderful. If not, you’ve lost nothing.

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Hide & Eat

n a late summer, double-header evening, my first stop was Comida KC at Union Station. After an incredible experience last year, I was excited to return. If you love food as a form of cultural exploration, Comida is for you. It’s a gastronomic showcase spotlighting the delectable cuisines of Latin America and Spain. The event brings together celebrated local chefs and restaurateurs, forward-thinking mixologists, and local foodies. The event also serves as the signature fundraiser for the Greater Kansas City Hispanic Collaborative (the nonprofit arm of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City). GKCHC provides comprehensive aid for the growth, evolution, and professional advancement of Hispanics and other minorities in the KC metro. It accomplishes this via a seamless pipeline of developmental programs designed to assist students from junior high through high school, connecting students and young professionals with additional education opportunities, resources, and mentorship, preparing them for college and the workforce. As the translated name conveys, Comida’s focus is food. Learning from last year, I made sure to arrive with a mighty appetite. Union Station’s entire Grand Plaza was once again lined with local restaurant outposts—many familiar to me, but also plenty to discover. Highlights included the Mexican (Guerrero) enchiladas mineras and tostada de pibil guanajuatense from the chef Carlos Angel Ruiz-Finch at Tiki Taco, the Oaxacan mole alla Veneziana with polenta from the executive chef Cody Hogan at Lidia’s, the Mexican (Yucatan) tostada de ceviche by the chef Fernanda Reyes at Taco Naco, and the Mexican ( Jalisco) tostadas javia and camarones mariposa from the chef Angel Martin Ortiz at Añejo Modern Mexican. The Venezuelan beef empanadas and tequeños with queso blanco from the chef Andrea Hall at Empanada Madness were well worth enduring the longest line. My favorite cocktail of the evening was the jardines de cumbia—described by mixologist Andrew Amaro, Jr., of Cantina Amaro as something like a hybrid margarita piña colada. Its combination of tequila, amaro, mango leaf tea, pineapple, coconut, and lime was refreshing and magical. Side note: the following evening, I had a full restaurant experience at Añejo (my new downtown neighbor), along with other favorite neighbors Katie & Jared Campbell. We loved it and will absolutely return. Amid the convivial conversations, dining, and sipping, there was a constant stream of live music and performances. A silent auction of-

Damian Lair at Percheron atop the Crossroads Hotel. Bob Faust’s artwork Camouflage, Codes & Connections is in the background.

fered everything from a conchas-making OVERHEARD experience to turquoise jewelry and Lat“If caviar were $2, in dance lessons. Also present were this you wouldn’t be year’s featured guest chefs, Celia Florián ordering it.” and her son, Alam David Méndez Florián. Florián is the cocinera and owner of Oaxaca City’s acclaimed Las Quince Letras (Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction), while Mendez owns Washington, D.C.’s Apapacho Taqueria with his wife, the pastry chef Elisa Reyna. Both are deeply committed to preserving traditional Oaxacan cuisine, drawing upon culinary knowledge passed through generations. From Union Station, I jumped the railroad tracks and popped up at Percheron, the rooftop bar and bites space at the Crossroads Hotel. I was there for the unveiling of a new, permanent art installation spanning the rooftop across four locations. Bob Faust’s Camouflage, Codes & Connections draws on the building’s Prohibition-era history, bringing forward the stories of communities that survived through coded language and quiet acts of resistance. Atop my favorite rooftop space in the city, I caught up with fellow fans of Faust, including his artist husband, Nick Cave, who I’d been fortunate to encounter previously. I informed

SEPTEMBER 2026| 24 | INKANSASCITY.COM

A New Studio The Same Extraordinary Design

Portfolio K i t c h e n

h o m e

A New Studio The Same Extraordinary Design

& h o m e

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Our Man IN KC him that I had since purchased a caftan creation of his at a charity auction, and I’m still holding out for the perfect occasion to wear it. Tiffany Meesha Thompson, who leads the hotel’s impressive gallery program, described how when you first encounter Faust’s works, you see beautiful, trippy patterns and colors. When looking closer, however, emerging patterns reflect histories of people who created codes to recognize one another and belong—when speaking openly carried consequences. “Joe sent me” was commonly used to clandestinely access bars during Prohibition. Later, “I’m a friend of Dorothy” was employed by the LGBT community to discreetly identify one another during a time when homosexuality was criminalized. Faust offered additional details on the secret codes tucked inside the works and his process for both concealing and revealing. He was inspired by the idea of “hiding in plain sight” and its relation to a place where being hidden is no longer a prerequisite for experiencing joy. Thankfully, those histories now live out in the open—though cryptically—inside a hotel whose identity is rooted in a simple premise: everyone who walks through its doors belongs.

ARTS NOUVEAU IT’S NOT EVERY DAY that the doctor who regularly administers your neurotoxins is moonlighting as a model on a local fashion runway. At NOUVEAU, that brand of unexpected was part of the appeal. The fashion-and-art event brought together an eclectic mix of Kansas City designers, artists, jewelers, florists, musicians, and makers for an evening filled with interesting collaborations, inventive looks, and lots of creative flair. Kansas City’s creative community packed into Precious Frivolities for an evening that blurred the lines between fashion show, art exhibition, concert, design showcase, and neighborhood happening. Located in the Crossroads Arts District, Precious Frivolities is a collective shop populated by local creatives of every stripe and interspersed with vintage pieces. As the KC Streetcar rang its bell, attendees spilled out, forming a line down the sidewalk for the sold-out event. Fashion designer April Madden, the captain of Precious Frivolities, was the driving force behind NOUVEAU. Madden gained the opportunity to activate the storefront through Kansas City’s Open Doors initiative, which placed local businesses and entrepreneurs into vacant retail spaces in conjunction with the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For NOUVEAU, Madden assembled a sprawling cohort of designers and artists whose practices ranged from elegant garment construction to experiments bordering on the wonderfully HOT Who GOSSIP: had a summer absurd. One artist, Tab Terry, transformed breakup and finally told paper into remarkably convincing cuts of Whose idea their parents at was the meat, several of which were integrated it airport to fire all the holiday pickup? into a garment constructed from repurdoormen? posed grocery packaging, paper, and reworked fabrics.

Dr. Amber Botros modeling a collaborative ensemble at NOUVEAU, held at Precious Frivolities.

That sense of collaboration ran throughout the evening. Koko and Flow incorporated ikebana-inspired botanical arrangements directly onto garments, transforming models into moving floral sculptures, while Ngan Vuong’s intricate crystal jewelry added another layer of ornamentation, catching the light as models moved through the room in vintage apparel. Co-director and designer Sarah Nelsen opened the runway with sleek dresses that effortlessly shaped the bodies underneath. Fabrics draped elegantly, revealing Nelsen’s expert attention to construction and detail. One standout collaboration brought her together with Honey Press Studio on a butterfly-like dress whose hand-dyed silk had the luminous, fluid quality of watercolor. Jewelry by DelBrenna completed the look, demonstrating how effectively NOUVEAU allowed individual creative practices to merge into something entirely new. Another collaboration took that multidisciplinary approach even further. Artist and photographer Mark Allen, who recently graduated with his MFA from Pratt Institute (where I also had the opportunity to see his sprawling thesis installation this spring while in Brooklyn), translated techniques from his studio practice directly onto fabric. He layered screen-printing, cyanotype, and hand-painted elements across the textile, which Madden then cut and sewed into a fantastically ornate caftan dress. Bringing the evening full circle—this finished look was worn by our mutual friend Amber Botros, physician, my injector-in-chief, and proprietor of Plaza Aesthetics & Wellness. Dr. B was further adorned in jewelry by Annmann Designs, including a spectacular crown that completed the ensemble. The resulting look was a mesmerizing collision of photography, printmaking, painting, fashion, and jewelry, with several distinct creative practices converging into a single wearable artwork— all fitting for a queen of Egyptian heritage. Flutienastiness performed on flute while The SoulPatrol, featuring Asa Barnes, provided the show’s soundtrack, transforming the room into something between a fashion show and a live concert. What made NOUVEAU particularly compelling was the way it reflected the creative ecosystem already operating throughout Kansas City. Fashion designers weren’t simply showing garments—they were

SEPTEMBER 2026| 26 | INKANSASCITY.COM

photo by quinn kavanaugh

SPOTTED: Eric Negrete, Laura Greenbaum, George Guastello, Michael Tritt, Petra Kralickova, Chris Hernandez & Paul Monteil, Laura Norris, Brant Stacy, Chadwick Brooks, Lauren Reece, Jessica Hong, Kim Klein, Sean Kelley, Cory Imig, Quinn Kavanaugh, Mark Cowardin, Deron Fields

OVERHEARD “I’m just one chance episode of cyclospora from my goal weight.”

working across disciplines with jewelers, textile artists, musicians, floral designers, and visual artists. Materials and ideas moved freely, and the conventional boundaries separating art, craft, fashion, retail, and performance became increasingly difficult—and increasingly unnecessary—to define. There was polish, certainly, but there was also experimentation, humor, repurposing, and a willingness to get a little weird. In other words, it felt distinctly Kansas City. It was a community of people making things, sharing resources, occupying spaces together, and discovering what can happen when everyone is invited into the same room.

MIX IT UP

photo by quinn kavanaugh

AMID THE HISTORIC electric brick warehouses populating the West Bottoms, the Mixture brand opened its factory outlet pop-up with a VIP preview evening for friends. I was grateful to be invited. Mixture, of course, is the locally manufactured home and personal products company. You can find their branded merchandise sold at shops around the city and country, but you may also have unwittingly experienced their items made under other retailers’ labels—Anthropologie, for instance. I’ve long been a Mixture fan, swearing by their scented laundry and home products. I rotate by season, naturally. Nothing makes me feel properly amidst a season quite like switching my winter Sandalwood & Amber laundry detergent for springtime Egyptian Cotton. Hedgerow candles for summer recall lush Hamptons privets. Dish soaps and body washes get the seasonal treatment as well. My fellow columnist Merrily Jackson loves their unscented candles for dinner parties. I could go on. Mixture’s products are always made using essential oil fragrances and are free of parabens, phthalates, and animal cruelty. The candles are hand-poured with soy wax and use wicks that don’t create a steady plume of soot (something I’ve become sensitive to with other brands). Given my Mixture enthusiasm, I was elated to snap up some of their stock going out of rotation and items from past retail projects— all at a heavy discount. With an upbeat playlist, cocktails, bites, and a lively crowd, I quickly had my arms full. Aromatherapy shower bombs, hand balms, and decorative trays—oh my. I stocked up early on holiday-scented candles and grabbed a backup eucalyptus rollerball fragrance—a necessity for an upcoming 18-hour flight. The shop (1317 West 13th Terrace) is open through the end of the year, primarily on First Fridays and Saturdays. Check their social media for details. @mixturefactoryoutlet SPOTTED: Michael Fields, Ursula Terrasi & Jim Miller, Ann McCray, Robin & Scott Boswell, Regina Nouhan, Dan Nilsen, Jim Blair, Kevin Hancock, Terry Anderson & Michael Henry, Bernard Shondell & Richard Hull, Donald Loncasty, Deirdre Devine, Kevin Bryant & Tom Suther, Ron White, Troy Moore, Steve Who had a summer HOT Dreiling, Ali & Bryan Farley, Kristi & breakup and finally told GOSSIP: Michael Dolan their parents at the

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Arts & Culture IN KC

by Judith Fertig

Carrie Rebora Barratt

riginally from Chicago, Carrie Rebora Barratt, who has a doctorate in art history, is returning to the Midwest as the senior curator-at-large of American Art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Her appointment is a bright and colorful feather in the Nelson’s cap. As an art historian, author, and accomplished museum and public garden leader with a distinguished record of transformative institutional impact, Barratt will help Kansas City’s cherished art museum engage, innovate, and thrive. She has had extensive experience at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, rising from curator of American Art to deputy director, where she oversaw curatorial, conservation, education, libraries, publications, and digital initiatives, while helping shape stra-

INKC: You are returning to the Midwest, having grown up in Chicago. Is there a painting in the Nelson’s collection that just says “Midwest” to you? Carrie Rebora Barratt: John Steuart Curry’s The Bathers from 1928 comes immediately to mind. At first glance, it is simply farmers and boys cooling off in a cattle tank after a day’s work on a hot summer day, but a longer close look at the picture shows us that Curry transformed ordinary Midwestern tomfoolery into ritual, a moment that is timeless and classical. The scene is deeply rooted in Kansas, yet it speaks to universal themes of freedom, community, work, youth, and the rhythms of life. The painting dignifies the Midwest and the stories that have played out in the heartland of America over time. The painting is refreshing in every sense. INKC: What do you love most about the work you do? CRB: I love helping people look more closely at works of art. Whether

through writing, giving a lecture, or standing in a gallery with one painting, there’s an awestriking moment when someone notices something they had not seen before. Art rewards attention, and I never tire of witnessing guests’ awareness grow. Museums are places of possibility. They preserve extraordinary works of art and create conversations across time—between artists and viewers, between past and present, and between strangers who find

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 30 | INKANSASCITY.COM

photo courtesy of carrie rebora barratt

tegic planning, governance, and visitor experience. In 2018, she became the ninth president and CEO of the New York Botanical Garden—and its first woman leader—guiding the 250-acre institution through a period marked by major institutional transition, climate challenges, and a renewed emphasis on wellness and public engagement. In 2020, she founded The Solace Project, a consulting and creative studio focused on the intersection of art, nature, and well-being. “Our best work together,” says Barratt, “is at the intersection of art and nature, museums and gardens.” Throughout her career, she has maintained a deep scholarly engagement with 18th- and 19th-century American art, including contributing to a think tank at Crystal Bridges and publishing a column and podcast. She’s currently working on a book about Martha Washington and the American widow. nelson-atkins.org

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Arts & Culture IN KC themselves looking together. Being part of that exchange feels like a privilege every day. INKC: As you work on a book about Martha Washington and the

American widow, do you have a juicy tidbit to convey? Did Martha complain that George used to soak his false teeth in a cup on the bedside table? CRB: Sadly, no stories about the false teeth! What drew me to Martha is something much richer than her relationship with George Washington. The book is a series of letters from me to Martha, reflecting on the surprising ways her life speaks to ours. The chapters are about her, through the times of her life. I, too, am a widow, and I began wondering how another woman—one who lived more than two centuries ago—found the strength to rebuild her life after profound loss. Martha Washington spent more than half her adult life as a widow—first after Daniel Parke Custis died, and then after Washington passed away. Widowhood shaped her authority, her parenting of her children, her finances, her family, and ultimately her place in American history. In my own scholarship, I have done loads of research on George Washington, principally through his portraits by Gilbert Stuart, and I only recently became completely transfixed by her portrait by Stuart, the other half of a masterpiece pair—and no one really writes or thinks about her. She’s hard to figure, having destroyed all of her

own correspondence with George, but leaving enough papers and evidence through clothing, shoes, and even recipes, that her story emerges through nuance. She navigated loss, leadership, reinvention, and resilience with remarkable grace. I hope readers will come to know her not simply as the nation’s first First Lady, but as one of its first truly modern women. INKC: You come to the Nelson-Atkins at a time of change and re-

newal, when we all need that “reinvigoration of the spirit,” as you have said. What do you hope to accomplish in your new role? CRB: The Nelson-Atkins has one of the great collections of American art, and my role is to help imagine how the works of art can speak to audiences in new ways, telling stories that come from the works and that acknowledge the viewer. As the museum prepares for expansion and reinstallation, they have invited me to ask fresh questions of the art, work with terrific staff, and think hard about the stories we tell and the connections we make. I’m especially excited to join the museum as our nation marks its 250th anniversary. It’s a rare moment to revisit the American story with fresh eyes—to celebrate artistic achievements, to embrace the complexity of our history, and to invite conversations about the ideals that continue to shape us. Great museums help us understand ourselves. I’m delighted to be part of this work at the Nelson-Atkins.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 32 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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Arts & Culture IN KC by Judith Fertig

Release Me by Dean Mitchell

LIE. SIT. STAND. BE STILL. AT KEMPER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART FROM NOW THROUGH JULY 2027, a new exhibit at Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art asks us to stop scrolling (a bane of modern life). Instead, Lie. Sit. Stand. Be Still. encourages us to ditch that screen for a while, slow down, notice what is around us, consider, and ponder. The works featured in Lie. Sit. Stand. Be Still. suggest slowness, contemplation, silence, and rest. Referencing a 1995 portfolio in the Kemper Museum’s collection, which includes poetry by Michael McClure and lithographs by Robert Graham, Lie. Sit. Stand. Be Still. offers an invitation to the viewer. States of rest and pause are referenced or encouraged throughout the exhibition with figurative works from the Kemper Museum’s collection alongside meditative abstractions and imagery. This exhibition emphasizes restoration and temporal liminality as key to the human experience, both necessary and sublime. For more information, visit kemperart.org.

SEPT 19, 25 & 27, 2026

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

kcopera.org | (816) 471-7344

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 34 | INKANSASCITY.COM

KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY PRESENTS PROMETHEUS ON SEPTEMBER 9, Matthias Pintscher, music director and conductor of the Kansas City Symphony, starts the new season off with George Li at the piano and theatrical immersive lighting from production designer Luke Kritzeck. This performance explores the theme of the mythic Prometheus, a Titan best known as the creator and protector of humanity, the clever trickster who stole fire and suffered eternal punishment for it—pushing a rock uphill, never getting anywhere. Why? Prometheus asks. The modern worker can certainly relate. This extraordinary event suggests outer worlds, inner space, and the power of artistic creation. Luciano Berio’s Sequenza V pushes a solo trombone to its limits, and includes a single spoken word: “Why?” Edgard Varèse’s Déserts was the first piece to incorporate recorded tape as part of the score, using recorded and live sounds to explore both physical deserts and those of the human spirit. Alexander Scriabin’s Prometheus: The Poem of Fire was composed for orchestra and light organ—the composer’s invention—created to shape what you hear, what you see, and what you feel. For more information and tickets, visit kcsymphony.org.

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Arts &Culture IN KC by Judith Fertig

THE BOHEMIAN LIFE beckons in song, dance, and drama in Puccini’s poignant portrait of friendship and romance among a charming group of impoverished bohemians in 19th-century France. As the opera that inspired Rent, La bohème is beloved for its soaring melodies, including the famed Musetta’s Waltz and O soave fanciulla, and bittersweet romance—all held afloat by the infectious spirit of its central artists, who face life’s challenges with humor, resilience, and poetry. Soak up the bohemian spirit in three ways. Join the Opera Book Club (free RSVP) to discuss Scenes from the Life of Bohemia by Henri Murger at Rainy Day Books on September 8. Join Rebecca Johnson PhD, at Opera Dives Deep on September 14 to learn more about La bohème—its synopsis, historical background, and musical highlights, concluding with a Q&A session. And enjoy the opera performed at the Kauffman Center from September 17 to 29. For more information and tickets, visit kcopera.org.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 36 | INKANSASCITY.COM

photo by karli cadel

LYRIC OPERA OF KANSAS CITY PERFORMS LA BOHÈME

photo by karli cadel

LEARN HOW TO PAINT WITH OILS AT JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHANNEL YOUR INNER OLD MASTER with a series of evening classes teaching the basics of oil painting through JCCC’s Workforce Development & Continuing Education, the arm of the college that brings you dynamic opportunities to enhance career development and deepen personal enrichment. Starting September 29 and running through November 17, artist Diren He will help you explore the vibrant world of oil painting using simple, step-by-step techniques. You choose your subject, and he will guide you through prepping your canvas and mixing colors. Plus, you’ll learn vital essentials like composition, color theory, and caring for your artwork. The cost of the class is $179, and students are responsible for bringing their own materials after the first class (the materials list is on the website). Visit continuinged.jccc.edu for more information and to register for the class.

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FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

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FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

AUTUMN ADVENTURES AWAIT AT KANSAS CITY ATTRACTIONS From glowing nights and haunted thrills to pumpkin patches, art, theater, and seasonal celebrations, GKCAA members offer countless ways to make the most of fall in Kansas City.

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When it comes to scares, Kansas City’s legendary West Bottoms haunted houses rank among the nation’s best. Travel Channel, along with its adviser Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, has named them among the 10 scariest haunted attractions in the U.S. The Edge of Hell, established in 1975, is the country’s oldest continuously operating commercial haunted house. The multi-story attraction plays on classic phobias as guests descend through the depths of hell, encountering its record-breaking reticulated python before making their escape down a four-story slide. Nearby, The Beast delivers an immersive nightmare filled with voodoo, werewolves, phantoms, monsters, the Headless Horseman, and its famed Thriller dancers. Macabre Cinema transforms a 1930s movie theater into a cinematic house of horrors, where clowns, zombies, and ghouls lurk among actual movie sets from The Mummy, Hellraiser, and other horror films. fullmoonprod.com

GLOWILD AT THE KANSAS CITY ZOO & AQUARIUM

GloWild: Hidden Treasure, presented by Saint Luke’s, returns to illuminate the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium this fall with an all-new theme. Guests will embark on a glowing nighttime adventure along a mile-long path filled with intricate, immersive lighted sculptures. Along the way, discover scenes inspired by ancient shipwrecks, buried riches, rugged expedition camps, and overgrown jungles. Clues, artifacts, and dazzling displays add to the sense of adventure, turning an evening at the zoo into a larger-than-life treasure hunt. kansascityzoo.org/glowild

PLAZA ART FAIR AT THE COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA

Celebrate the season at Zona Rosa’s 5th Annual Fall Fest, Saturday, Oct. 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This family-friendly autumn celebration features pumpkin decorating, bounce houses, games, kids’ activities, and the LEGO Brick Lab, where budding builders can create something of their own from thousands of LEGO bricks. Grown-ups can sip fall-themed cocktails while browsing a popup shopping event, visiting community partners, and taking advantage of special offers from Zona Rosa businesses. It all adds up to a festive day of fall fun under the crisp autumn skies. zonarosa.com

PUMPKIN PATCHES

Nothing says fall quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch, and Kansas City has plenty of places to pick the perfect one. At Powell Gardens Colonial Farms (colonialgardenskc.com) in Blue Springs, the season starts with the Apple Festival & Bake-Off, Sept. 5–6 and 12–13, followed by the Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch, Sept. 19–Oct. 31, with pumpkins, farm animals, and plenty of harvest-time fun. KC Pumpkin Patch (kcwineco.com) in Olathe kicks off its Fall Festival Sept. 26, packing more than 60 farm adventures into 40 acres of wide-open space, along with pumpkins galore. And in Liberty, Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch (carolynspumpkinpatch.com) celebrates more than 30 years of fall traditions with wagon rides to the pumpkin field, a petting barn, carousel, train rides, and dozens of other activities. Carolyn’s 2026 season opens Sept. 19 and runs five days a week, Thursday through Monday.

KANSAS CITY REPERTORY THEATRE

One of the longest-running and most beloved art festivals in the country, the Plaza Art Fair celebrates its 95th year with 240 artists, three stages of live music, and more than 25 restaurant booths. This nationally ranked event draws crowds to the Country Club Plaza for a weekend of art, food, music, and festivities—and has become Kansas City’s unofficial welcome to the fall season. Sep. 25–27. plazaartfair.com

KCRep is a heavy hitter in the city’s theater scene, and its fall season opens with a pair of acclaimed recent Broadway productions. First up is Come From Away (Sept. 1–20), the Tony Award-winning musical based on the true story of Gander, Newfoundland, where thousands of stranded airline passengers were welcomed following the September 11 attacks. Next is John Proctor is the Villain (Oct. 6–25), Kimberly Belflower’s provocative play about a group of Georgia high school students studying The Crucible while confronting questions of power,

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reputation, and whose stories get believed. The season then turns to a beloved Kansas City holiday tradition with A Christmas Carol (Nov. 21– Dec. 24). This year marks a changing of the guard as Mark Robbins steps into the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, succeeding Gary Neal Johnson after his remarkable 25-year run. kcrep.org

THE NATIONAL WWI MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL

Fall is an especially fitting time to visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial, which is celebrating the centennial of Kansas City’s iconic Liberty Memorial throughout 2026. Explore the world’s most comprehensive collection of World War I objects and documents, along with special exhibitions including Paris at War, following everyday Parisians during the Great War, and The Beautiful Game, exploring the connection between soccer and WWI, through Sept. 14. This fall, Tower After Hours offers a rare chance to ride to the top of Liberty Memorial Tower and take in the Kansas City skyline at sunset. The centennial celebration continues Nov. 5 with Operation: Us, an all-decades birthday bash celebrating 100 years of the Museum and Memorial as a Kansas City landmark and gathering place. theworldwar.org

VISIT INDEPENDENCE’S PARANORMAL PURSUIT PASSPORT

Things get a little spooky in Independence this fall with Visit Independence’s Paranormal Pursuit Passport (Sept. 23– Nov. 6), an interactive journey into the city’s haunted history, chilling legends, and unexplained happenings. Follow the passport to historic homes and other intriguing sites, where tales of ghostly encounters, mysterious events, and spirits that may never have left reveal a different side of Independence’s past. Check in at each stop to earn points and unlock prizes along the way while learning about the people and events behind some of the city’s most enduring paranormal stories. Whether you’re an experienced ghost hunter, a history buff, or simply curious about things that go bump in the night, Paranormal Pursuit offers a spirited way to explore the city—one haunting stop at a time. visitindependencetrails.com

WHETHER YOU’RE chasing ghosts, searching for the perfect pumpkin, or taking in a show, Greater Kansas City Attractions Association members offer plenty of ways to celebrate the season. Make your fall bucket list and get out and explore all that Kansas City has to offer!

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 42 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

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EXPERIENCE THE EXCITEMENT of Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway, where thrilling gaming, great dining, and big-game action come together in one premier destination. Located next to the iconic Kansas Speedway and just minutes from Tanger Kansas City at Legends Outlets, Hollywood Casino features a wide selection of slot machines, table games, and The Sportsbook, where guests can catch the action and cheer on their favorite teams. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious meal, meet up with friends, or test your luck on the gaming floor, Hollywood Casino offers an unforgettable experience for every guest. With exciting promotions, rewarding player benefits, and convenient access in the Kansas City area, Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway is the perfect place to play, and make lasting memories. Must be 21. Gambling Problem? Getting Help is your Best Bet. 1.800.GAMBLER

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 44 | INKANSASCITY.COM

a s i t i s i V Every ! e r u t n e v d A New

FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

FALL FUN AT CROWN CENTER CUISINE FOR EVERY TASTE, entertainment for all ages, and unique finds at one-of-a-kind shops all come together at Crown Center. For a completely Kansas City fall, the landmark destination offers local shopping and dining, family-friendly attractions, theaters, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Kick off the season with KC Irish Fest, Sept. 4–6, celebrating Irish culture, music, food, and fun. Then, on Saturday, Sept. 19, creativity meets community at Hallmarket: A Hallmark Art Festival. Raise a stein at KC Oktoberfest, Oct. 2–3, with brats, beer, and Bavarian fun for all ages. As temperatures drop, lace up your skates when the Crown Center Ice Terrace opens Nov. 6. There’s plenty more to explore at SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. Kids can get creative at Kaleidoscope, a free hands-on art studio, while the Hallmark Visitors Center shares the story behind the iconic Kansas City brand. And at the world’s first Museum of BBQ, visitors can dig into the history, culture, and traditions behind one of the city’s favorite foods. From fall festivals and family adventures to shopping, dining, and the first spins around the Ice Terrace, Crown Center makes it easy to celebrate the season—all in one place. crowncenter.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 46 | INKANSASCITY.COM

of Arts,Crafts and Music

October 3 & 4 • 10am - 5pm Missouri Town Living History Museum

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October 18 • 10am - 4pm Kemper Outdoor Education Center

8/25/2026 12:21:33 PM

FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

JACKSON COUNTY PARKS + REC CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF FALL FUN CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF FALL FUN with your family at Jackson County Parks + Rec’s Fall Festival of Arts, Crafts and Music at the Missouri Town Living History Museum, Oct. 3 – 4. One of Jackson County’s favorite fall traditions, this popular open-air event brings the sights, sounds and traditions of autumn in the mid-1800s to life. Step inside the historic buildings, where knowledgeable living history interpreters demonstrate bygone skills and historic trades and crafts. Wander through the Lost Arts area and watch skilled artisans at work. Enjoy delicious food, live music, games, family-friendly vendors and plenty of fall fun throughout the weekend. It’s a celebration of 50 years of history, tradition and family fun at Missouri Town, located at 8010 East Park Road, Lee’s Summit, in Fleming Park near Lake Jacomo. For information, visit makeyourdayhere.com/missouritown.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 48 | INKANSASCITY.COM

FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 49 | INKANSASCITY.COM

FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

Anasazi Pitcher with Animal Effigy, 2000, Thomas Natseway, Pueblo of Laguna

May 3, 2025−January 26, 2026

March 28, 2026–January 2026–January 25, 2027

This exhibition explores diverse tribal traditions, family heritage, and creative innovations expressed by Native American artists working in miniature. Video interviews and written interpretation highlight artists’ voices discussing their artworks, techniques, and inspirations.

A generous anonymous donor

TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG / 816.235.8000 / 5235 OAK STREET, KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI 64112

SLAVE DWELLING PROJECT

JOSEPH MCGILL

OCT 9 JESSE JAMES BIRTHPLACE

6PM

OCT 10 GARRISON SCHOOL

10AM

Outdoor Evening Program | Bring Your Own Lawnchair Roundtable Discussion | Speakers Panel

CONVERSATIONS, REFLECTION, OPEN DIALOGUE

This program is funded by Freedoms Frontier National Heritage Area and a partnership with Clay County Historic Sites and the Garrison School.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 50 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Mr. McGill’s nationally recognized work has brought long-overdue attention to extant slave dwellings and the importance of preserving these structures as part of our nation’s historical landscape. Through overnight stays, public programming, living history interpretation, and educational outreach, the Slave Dwelling Project has encouraged honest conversations about slavery and its enduring legacy in America.

THE COLLEGE BASKETBALL EXPERIENCE AND (MEN’S) NATIONAL COLLEGIATE BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME 1401 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106 816-949-7500 • collegebasketballexperience.com

AIRO | KANSAS CITY HELICOPTER TOURS 10 Richards Rd, Kansas City , MO 64116 816-499-3342 • iflyairo.com/kansas-city

COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA 47th & Broadway Kansas City, MO 64112 816-753-0100 • countryclubplaza.com

AMELIA EARHART HANGAR MUSEUM 16701 286th Rd, Atchison, KS 66002 913-372-0021 • ameliaearharthangarmuseum.org ANITA B. GORMAN CONSERVATION DISCOVERY CENTER 4750 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110 816-759-7300 • mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter ATLAS9 1100 N 98th St, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-708-8081 • atlas9.com BREAKOUT KC ESCAPE ROOM River Market: 114 W. 3rd St. #102, Kansas City, MO 64105 Park Place: 11535 Ash St., Leawood, KS 66211 (MO) 816-945-2633 • (KS) 913-298-1081 breakoutkc.com

CHILLICOTHE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 100 Elm Street, Chillicothe, MO 64601 660-240-0093 • visitchillicothe.com CLAY COUNTY PARKS & GO NORTH KC 17201 Paradesian St, Smithville, MO 64089 816-407-3400 • smithvillelakecamping.com

HY-VEE ARENA 1800 Genessee St, Kansas City, MO 64102 816-505-0404 • hy-veearena.com

CROWN CENTER 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-274-8444 • crowncenter.com

INDEPENDENCE SQUARE ASSOCIATION (HISTORIC DOWNTOWN) 106 S Liberty St., Independence, MO 64050 816-381-7181 • indepsquare.com

EXPLORE LEE’S SUMMIT 220 SE Green Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 816-969-1008 • lstourism.com

JACKSON COUNTY PARKS + REC 22807 SW Woods Chapel Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015 816-503-4800 • makeyourdayhere.com

FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF KANSAS CITY MONEY MUSEUM 1 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-881-2683 • kansascityfed.org/moneymuseum

JESSE JAMES BIRTHPLACE 21216 Jesse James Farm Rd, Kearney, MO 64060 Jesse James Bank Museum, 103 N Water St, Liberty, MO 64068 (Farm) 816-736-8500 • (Bank) 816-736-8510 jessejamesmuseum.org

FULL MOON HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS 1401 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64102 816-842-4280 or 816-842-0320 • fullmoonprod.com

CAROLYN’S PUMPKIN PATCH 17607 NE 52nd St, Liberty, MO 64068 816-781-9196 • carolynspumpkinpatch.com

HOLLYWOOD CASINO AT KANSAS SPEEDWAY 777 Hollywood Casino Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-288-9300 • hollywoodcasinokansas.com

HARRY S. TRUMAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM 500 W US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 816-268-8200 • trumanlibrary.gov

JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM 8788 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212 913-826-2787 • jcprd.com/museum JUST ONE DAY TOURS 816-805-2176 • justonedaytraveltours.com

HISTORIC LECOMPTON 640 E Woodson Ave, Lecompton, KS 66050 785-887-6148 • lecomptonkansas.com

KC FRINGE FESTIVAL PO Box 415001, Kansas City, MO 64141 646-844-1505 • kcfringe.org

HOLLADAY DISTILLERY One McCormick Lane, Weston, MO 64098 816-640-3056 • holladaydistillery.com

KC WINE CO AND KC PUMPKIN PATCH 13875 S Gardner Rd #1, Olathe, KS 66061 913-484-6251 • kcwineco.com and kcpumpkinpatch.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 51 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

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FALL FUN IN KANSAS CITY

KANSAS CITY BALLET Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-931-8993 • kcballet.org KANSAS CITY CARRIAGES Nichols and Pennsylvania on the Country Club Plaza 816-531-1999 • kccarriages.com KANSAS CITY CURRENT CPKC Stadium, 1460 E Front St, Kansas City, MO 64120 913-374-0233 • kansascitycurrent.com

THE MUSEUM OF KANSAS CITY 3218 Gladstone Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64123 816-702-7700 • museumofkansascity.org

VISIT KANSAS CITY, KANSAS 727 Minnesota Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101 913-321-5800 • visitkck.com

MORTON AMPHITHEATER 6150 NW Music Blvd, Riverside, MO 64150 314-813-9982 • mortonamphitheater.com

WATKINS WOOLEN MILL STATE HISTORIC SITE 26600 Park Road North, Lawson, MO 64062 816-580-3387 • mostateparks.com/park/watkinswoolen-mill-state-historic-site

MUSIC THEATER HERITAGE Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd, #301, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-221-6987 • mthkc.com

KANSAS CITY MONARCHS BASEBALL Legends Field, 1800 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-328-5618 • monarchsbaseball.com

NATIONAL FRONTIER TRAILS MUSEUM Truman Memorial Building, 416 W Maple Ave, Independence, MO 64050 816-325-7575 • ci.independence.mo.us/ParksAndRec

KANSAS CITY PARKS & RECREATION 4600 E. 63rd Street, Kansas City, MO 64130 816-513-7500 • kcparks.org

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TOYS / MINIATURES 5235 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64112 816-235-8000 • toyandminiaturemuseum.org

KANSAS CITY RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 633 N 130th St, Bonner Springs, KS 66012 913-721-2110 • kcrenfest.com

NATIONAL WWI MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL 2 Memorial Dr, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-888-8100 • theworldwar.org

KANSAS CITY REPERTORY THEATRE Spencer Theatre, 4949 Cherry St, Kansas City, MO 64110 Copaken Stage, 1 H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-235-2700 • kcrep.org

NEGRO LEAGUES BASEBALL MUSEUM 1616 E 18th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-221-1920 • nlbm.com

KANSAS CITY ROYALS Kauffman Stadium, One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129 816-921-8000 • royals.com KANSAS CITY ZOO & AQUARIUM 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132 816-595-1234 • kansascityzoo.org KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 1601 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-994-7222 • kauffmancenter.org KC WHEEL 2485 Jefferson St, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-608-6918 • kcwheel.com KEMPER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART 4420 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111 816-753-5784 • kemperart.org LEGOLAND® DISCOVERY CENTER 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-556-3958 • legolanddiscoverycenter.com/kansas-city MAHAFFIE STAGECOACH STOP & FARM 1200 Kansas City Rd, Olathe, KS 66061 913-971-5111 • mahaffie.org MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT 8081 NW Roanridge Rd, Kansas City, MO 64151 816-281-2020 • mainevent.com THE MIDLAND THEATRE 1228 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64105 816-283-9900 • midlandkc.com MIDWEST TRUST CENTER AT JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210 913-469-4445 • jccc.edu/mtc THE MIDWEST GENEALOGY CENTER 3440 S Lee’s Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055 816-252-7228 • mymcpl.org/genealogy

THE NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM OF ART 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111 816-751-1278 • nelson-atkins.org PARADE OF HEARTS Kansas City Region • theparadeofhearts.com PLANET COMICON KC AND PLANET ANIME KC Bartle Hall, 301 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64105 planetcomicon.com and planetanimekc.com POWELL GARDENS—COLONIAL FARMS 21610 E Wyatt Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64014 816-229-1277 • colonialfarmskc.org

WESTPORT KANSAS CITY 4050 Pennsylvania Ave Suite M100, Kansas City, MO 64111 816-531-4370 • westportkcmo.com ZONA ROSA 8640 N. Dixson Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64153 816-587-8180 • zonarosa.com

RAYTOWN CHAMBER & TOURISM 5909 Raytown Trafficway, Raytown, MO 64133 816-353-8500 • visitraytown.com ROCK ISLAND BRIDGE 1799 American Royal Dr, Kansas City, KS 64102 913-895-1106 • rockislandkc.com SEA LIFE AQUARIUM KANSAS CITY 2475 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-471-4386 • visitsealife.com/kansas-city SHATTO MILK 9406 N Hwy 33, Osborn, MO 64474 816-930-3862 • shattomilk.com STARLIGHT THEATRE 4600 Starlight Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132 816-363-7827 • kcstarlight.com TANGER KANSAS CITY AT LEGENDS 1843 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111 913-788-3700 • tanger.com/kansascity T-SHOTZ 660 NW Metro North Dr, Kansas City, MO 64155 816-702-1320 • tshotz.com UNION STATION AND SCIENCE CITY 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108 816-460-2000 • unionstation.org SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION | 52 | INKANSASCITY.COM

facebook.com/attractionskc @GKAAAttractions

AT T R AC T I O N S KC . C O M Greater Kansas City Attractions Association members include local attractions from throughout the metropolitan Kansas City area. GKCAA gives away tickets and items from the most exciting venues in the Kansas City area! Simply follow the Association on Facebook or Instagram and you’ll have the opportunity to experience the finest attractions in the region!

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Health IN KC

presented by AdventHealth

by Judith Fertig

Cognitive Impairments and What Can Be Done to Help

Megan Baumgardner, DO

A CONVERSATION WITH MEGAN BAUMGARDNER, DO, A BOARD-CERTIFIED NEUROLOGIST WITH ADVENTHEALTH MEDICAL GROUP NEUROLOGY AT PRAIRIE STAR

s a significant part of our population ages—and lives longer—we hear more and more about the various types of cognitive impairments that can affect not only the individual, but families and caregivers. Megan Baumgardner, DO, a board-certified neurologist with AdventHealth Medical Group Neurology at Prairie Star, shares new information.

What are the hallmarks of mild cognitive impairment, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and other neurological conditions? Cognitive impairment is not one diagnosis. There is a spectrum, and different neurological diseases affect different aspects of thinking and behavior. Mild cognitive impairment, or MCI, means there is a measurable change in memory, attention, language or executive functioning that is greater than we would expect from normal aging, but the person is still largely able to manage everyday activities

independently. MCI is not synonymous with Alzheimer’s disease, and some people with MCI remain stable or even improve, depending on the underlying cause. Dementia is a syndrome rather than a single disease. We use the term when cognitive impairment becomes severe enough to interfere with a person’s independence and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but it is certainly not the only one. Alzheimer’s disease classically begins with difficulty learning and retaining new information, although early symptoms can also involve word finding, executive functioning, judgment, or visuospatial abilities. The underlying disease is associated with abnormal accumulation of beta-amyloid and tau proteins in the brain. Lewy body dementia has a somewhat different clinical pattern. Hallmarks include fluctuations in attention and alertness, recurrent visual hallucinations, Parkinson’s-like movement symptoms, and REM sleep behavior disorder—where a person physically acts out dreams. Memory may initially be less prominent than problems with attention, visuospatial processing, and executive functioning. Fronto-

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 54 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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Kansas City’s expert brain and spine care. Hidden within the intricate folds of your brain are the pathways that lead to your thoughts, memories and dreams — the very essence of your human spirit. At the AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute, our experts are dedicated to protecting those pathways. With state-ofthe-art technology and groundbreaking treatments, we care for the most complex neurological conditions, so you can keep moving, keep dreaming and keep being your whole self.

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Health IN KC

presented by AdventHealth

temporal dementia (FTD) is particularly important because it often affects people at a younger age. Rather than memory being the first or dominant symptom, FTD commonly presents with striking changes in personality, behavior, judgment, social conduct, or language. Some patients become disinhibited or impulsive; others become apathetic, lose empathy, or develop progressive difficulty speaking or understanding language. FTD is one of the more common causes of dementia in people under 60. There are also vascular cognitive impairment and dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, traumatic brain injury-related cognitive impairment, and cognitive problems associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, brain tumors, and other neurological disorders. In addition, medications, sleep disorders, depression, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid disease, and other medical problems can cause or worsen cognitive symptoms. That’s why a careful evaluation is so important: forgetfulness does not automatically mean Alzheimer’s disease. How are these conditions diagnosed and treated? The diagnosis starts with a detailed history. Often, the person’s family or close friends provide some of the most valuable information because gradual cognitive changes can be difficult for the individual to recognize. We want to know not only what someone forgets, but how the person’s thinking, behavior, and ability to function have changed over time. A neurological and cognitive evaluation typically includes a medical and

medication review, neurological examination, and cognitive screening. Formal neuropsychological testing can provide a much more detailed assessment of memory, attention, language, executive functioning, and visuospatial skills. Blood testing can identify potentially reversible contributors such as thyroid abnormalities or vitamin deficiencies. Depending on the situation, we may use MRI or CT imaging, and sometimes PET imaging or cerebrospinal-fluid testing. The field is also moving toward biological diagnosis, particularly for Alzheimer’s disease. Biomarkers can identify the underlying pathology rather than relying solely on symptoms. In 2025, the FDA cleared the first blood test to aid in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease by measuring plasma p-tau217 and beta-amyloid; it is intended to be interpreted alongside the patient’s clinical evaluation rather than used as a stand-alone diagnosis. Treatment depends entirely on the cause. For Alzheimer’s disease, medications can address symptoms, and newer disease-modifying therapies can slow progression in appropriately selected people with early Alzheimer’s disease. Leqembi (lecanemab) and Kisunla (donanemab) target amyloid pathology and are used in people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease. For Lewy body dementia, medications may help cognition, movement, sleep, or behavioral symptoms, but treatment requires particular care because some medications—including certain antipsychotics—can be poorly tolerated or even dangerous. For FTD, we currently don’t have a medication that stops the un-

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 56 | INKANSASCITY.COM

derlying disease. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, supporting communication and behavior, maintaining safety, and helping families navigate the disease. Across all forms of cognitive impairment, exercise, good sleep, heart-healthy nutrition, treatment of hearing and vision problems, management of vascular risk factors, social and cognitive engagement, and addressing depression and other medical conditions are important components of brain health and quality of life. Are there any breakthroughs or good news for treating these neurological issues? Yes—and I think this is an area where it is appropriate to be genuinely optimistic, while also being realistic. The biggest change is that we are moving from a world where we could largely diagnose and treat dementia after symptoms appeared, to one where we increasingly can identify the underlying biology and, in some cases, actually modify the course of disease. For Alzheimer’s disease, that transition has already begun. Lecanemab and donanemab demonstrated that removing amyloid from the brain can modestly slow clinical decline in people with early Alzheimer’s disease. These are not cures, and they are not appropriate for everyone. They also require careful patient selection and monitoring because amyloid-targeting antibodies can cause a complication called amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, or ARIA, which can involve brain swelling or bleeding. Another breakthrough is blood-based biomarkers. A simple blood

draw increasingly can tell us about Alzheimer’s-related proteins that previously required a PET scan or lumbar puncture to measure. The FDA’s 2025 clearance of a p-tau217/beta-amyloid blood test was an important milestone, and the technology is rapidly evolving. We are also getting better at seeing the actual pathology in the brain. Just this month, the FDA approved a new tau PET imaging agent, giving clinicians another tool for visualizing abnormal tau deposits in cognitively impaired adults. And the research pipeline extends far beyond Alzheimer’s. Scientists are studying therapies aimed at tau, inflammation, synaptic health, vascular mechanisms, and the abnormal proteins involved in Lewy body disease and FTD. Genetic discoveries are also allowing researchers to identify families at particularly high risk and, in some cases, design treatments around specific disease mechanisms. So I would not tell patients that we have “solved” dementia—we haven’t. But I would tell them that the landscape is fundamentally different from what it was even five or ten years ago. We now have better diagnostic tools, the first generation of treatments that can alter the trajectory of early Alzheimer’s disease, and an enormous amount of research aimed at treating diseases according to their underlying biology. The next breakthrough may be finding ways to intervene even earlier, before significant neurons have been lost, or developing disease-modifying treatments for dementias such as FTD and Lewy body disease where we currently have very limited options. adventhealth.com/locations/hospitals/prairie-star/doctors

stumpffhomeworks.com

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 57 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Living IN KC

Honoring a Legacy NO FANFARE, JUST A DETERMINED FOCUS BY DESIGNER LISA SCHMITZ AS SHE GUIDED A FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT HOME RESTORATION

by Susan Cannon photos by Nate Sheets

Designer Lisa Schmitz in the restored living room of the Sondern-Adler Frank Lloyd Wright house in Kansas City’s Roanoke neighborhood.

his past February, Lisa Schmitz of Lisa Schmitz Interior Design and a team of collaborators completed the prized Sondern-Adler Usonian home renovation in KC’s Roanoke area. The results carry the vision of Frank Lloyd Wright into the future. When did this project come to you? In 2024, we were hired by the current owners to bring the home’s kitchen and three bathrooms (areas that were not of original design or materials) up to date. When our team arrived, those spaces central to daily life had been fully gutted. Our task was to rebuild them from the inside out, restoring function and integrating contemporary performance while maintaining the restraint, proportion, and material clarity essential to Usonian design. The approach required equal parts technical ingenuity and reverence. What was the involvement of the new homeowners? I admire their determination to do the restoration and preservation to

carry on this legacy. They built a team of historians, preservationists, and craftsmen with equal passion and skills. I was very honored to be included. Did you feel extra pressure over the stewardship of this project? Very much so! I have such a respect for nature and details and function. Having grown up in my grandparents’ midcentury-modern log cabin deep in the woods, I felt a special kinship. Touring Frank Lloyd Wright homes and respecting details, I felt honored to be entrusted with what felt like “home.” Memories of Frank Llyod Wright stories from my grandparents were constantly on my mind. “What would Frank do? Would he appreciate this? What honors his work in the best way?” What were your goals and changes during restoration? Every choice, structural, spatial, and material, was rooted in a single goal: to introduce modern comfort without disturbing the essential character of the home. The result is a series of spaces that feels authentic to the house, ready for contemporary life. They neither replicate what once existed nor compete with it; instead, they inhabit the same archi-

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 58 | INKANSASCITY.COM

The renovated kitchen, left, and the primary bathroom, right.

A spectacular, contemporary venue with transformable reception spaces and a magnificent courtyard.

tectural language with clarity and humility. It was also important to us to expose as much of the original finishes as possible, like the brickwork and cypress wood. The kitchen demanded the most extensive technical problem-solving. Compact and spatially constrained, it needed to perform for contemporary living without visually overwhelming the architecture. A relocated, new exterior door now connects the workspace to the kitchen garden and reflecting pool, a meaningful functional improvement and a heavily reviewed change that ultimately received preservation approval. This connection brings natural light, ventilation, and daily usability to the space. Did any particular challenges pop up? Oh, yes, plenty. Bringing the bathrooms up to modern standards required creative, ground-up solutions. Because wiring couldn’t penetrate the existing brick walls, all electrical runs were planned and routed through newly re-poured concrete floors. Throughout the process, we chose to keep the home’s history visible: wood embedded in the brick where former walls once tied in remains exposed, and patched areas of damaged or missing brick were left visible rather than concealed. All vanities, designed to echo Usonian simplicity, were custom built by Matt Schmitz Makes. Rather than disturbing any of the original plaster or brick, switching and power are integrated directly into the millwork, a detail that both preserves the fabric of the home and reveals the complexity behind its modernization. In the “green bath,” an inefficient layout placed the sink directly in front of the main plumbing stack. By relocating the sink and reorganizing the plan, we created a more functional flow and carved out a dedicated toilet area, improving space and privacy. A new wall conceals plumbing and an exposed roof drain, but its upper portion remains open to maintain the bath’s existing datum line and allow light and air to pass through.

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.

COLLABORATORS Strata Architecture + Preservation • Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy • Matt Schmitz Makes • Clint Paugh Lighting Design • Pasadena Craftsman Tile • Clay Squared • Fireclay • Recycled Surfaces • Central Surfaces • RetroPros (Preservation)

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 59 | INKANSASCITY.COM

therestaurantat1900.com (913) 730–1900

1900 Building 1900 Shawnee Mission Parkway Mission Woods, Kansas

Living IN KC by Susan Cannon

It’s “Definitely” Chic to Rest CONJURE THE ART OF REJUVENATION AT FOREST RETREAT—A 200-YEAR-OLD FARMHOUSE TURNED SPA GETAWAY—JUST A JAUNT AWAY FROM DOWNTOWN

orest Retreat, the brainchild of Rhiannon Caballero, Nest Luxury interior designer and mom of two, is a fully furnished property thoughtfully centered on restorative living. It’s surrounded by eight private sylvan acres just northwest of the Crossroads. Caballero has taken time to thoughtfully renovate the old farmhouse she bought nine years ago, treating the project with modern yet rustic charm and an innovative concept. It was designed with spa-inspired details: the lower level has a private

entrance to private sleeping and spa quarters, including a soaking tub and steam shower within the primary bedroom. Stone walls, wood-paneled ceilings, and concrete and pebble floors all lend a rustic feel. From the front, one enters a welcoming living room with vintage pieces, layered textiles, and ample space for gatherings amid newly streamlined interiors. The spacious kitchen is modern and functional with warm reclaimed-wood cabinetry. A large, modern soaking tub is included in the cozy bedroom on the second floor. There are two other

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sleeping areas equally snug, meant for a restorative retreat from the busy world outside. The house and grounds are a match made in heaven, with outdoor gathering spaces designed for quiet weekends for couples, intimate gatherings, or creative retreats for up to 16 guests, with accommodations for eight overnight. Yoga instructors can book and host day retreats. There are bike paths, and the new Morton Amphitheater is nearby. Log onto forestretreatkc.com to find rental dates for your getaway. SEPTEMBER 2026 | 61 | INKANSASCITY.COM

free art gallery Tomahawk Ridge Community Center

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Secure your legacy Removing assets from your taxable estate may preserve more value for your beneficiaries by lowering your eventual federal estate tax liability. Because decisions around gifting, trust structures, charitable strategies, and tax planning may be interrelated, high-net-worth families require the benefit of thoughtful coordination and long-range perspective. Commerce Trust can advise on strategies for moving assets out of your taxable estate while aligning timing, intent, and tax considerations with your broader wealth and estate plan. Your dedicated private wealth team integrates financial planning, investment management, tax strategy, and trust administration to help you preserve wealth, create financial flexibility, and secure your legacy. Learn more at commercetrustcompany.com

Commerce Trust does not provide tax advice to customers unless engaged to do so. Commerce Trust does not provide legal advice to its customers. Consult an attorney for legal advice, including drafting and execution of estate planning documents. Commerce Trust is a division of Commerce Bank. Investment Products: Not FDIC Insured | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee

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Moving Assets Out of Your Taxable Estate By Scott LaPresta, CTFA, Senior Vice President, Director of Private Client Advisors, Commerce Trust

Removing assets from your taxable estate may preserve more value for your beneficiaries by lowering your eventual federal estate tax liability. There are a number of gifting and asset transfer strategies that can be employed to remove assets from your taxable estate. Working with an experienced private wealth management team to navigate the complexities of relevant tax provisions is critical to making informed decisions that will have a lasting impact on your estate. Using your annual gift tax exclusion Giving assets to family or others during your lifetime is a straightforward way to transfer assets out of your taxable estate while allowing recipients to benefit from your gifts today. In 2026, the annual gift tax exclusion allows individuals to gift up to $19,000, or $38,000 for gifts from a married couple, to an unlimited number of recipients. Consistently using this exclusion each year, over time, can lead to a lower federal estate tax liability. Gifts for someone’s tuition or qualifying medical expenses do not count against your annual gift tax exclusion if payment is made directly to the provider. Gifts that exceed the annual gift tax exclusion typically require the donor to file a gift tax return, and the gift will count against your lifetime exemption from gift and estate taxes. Efficiently leveraging your lifetime estate and gift tax exemption With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), starting in 2026, the federal lifetime estate and gift tax exemption increased to $15 million per individual and is effectively doubled for married couples. Gifting appreciated assets sooner can remove their potential appreciation from your taxable estate while avoiding capital gains taxes that would result from selling the asset before gifting it. Transferring assets to irrevocable trusts Making a taxable gift to an irrevocable trust generally reduces your remaining lifetime exemption and may remove the asset and any future appreciation from your taxable estate. Different types of irrevocable trusts, such as spousal lifetime access trusts (SLATs), dynasty trusts, and intentionally defective grantor trusts (IDGTs), offer additional benefits for long-term wealth transfer. A SLAT allows one spouse to benefit from a trust funded by the other, the grantor, while keeping assets outside the grantor’s taxable estate. Dynasty trusts are designed to benefit several generations of the grantor’s descendants while minimizing estate taxes. And shifting assets to an IDGT allows the grantor to remain responsible for any income tax liability, but at the grantor’s income tax rate rather than as trust income.

Giving to charitable organizations Donating assets to charity can be another effective strategy for removing appreciating assets from your taxable estate, realizing potential income tax benefits, and supporting philanthropic causes in a meaningful way. Assuming you itemize your deductions, donations to a qualified charitable organization can provide an income tax deduction between 20% and 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) in the year the donation is made. In addition, it is not typically necessary to pay capital gains taxes on these assets if they are donated directly to a qualified organization. Upstream gifting Upstream gifting is a term used to describe the transfer of assets out of your estate by gifting them to a parent, with the intent that those assets will later be bequeathed back to you or your child. When done effectively, upstream gifting can remove assets from your estate while providing a step-up in cost basis to the current fair market value for capital gains taxes if you or your children eventually sell the assets. PLAN FOR THE TRANSFER OF YOUR WEALTH WITH A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH Considering the right methods and timing to manage your federal estate tax liability as part of a comprehensive estate plan starts with understanding your long-term personal and family goals for wealth transfer. Contact Commerce Trust at commercetrustcompany.com/ estateplanning today to learn more about our team-based, holistic approach to private wealth management, including how we can help you navigate tax planning to preserve your wealth and provide the most impactful gifts for your heirs and philanthropic beneficiaries. The opinions and other information in the commentary are provided as of May 27, 2026. This summary is intended to provide general information only, and may be of value to the reader and audience. This material is not a recommendation of any particular investment or insurance strategy, is not based on any particular financial situation or need, and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified tax advisor or investment professional. While Commerce may provide information or express opinions from time to time, such information or opinions are subject to change, are not offered as professional tax, insurance or legal advice, and may not be relied on as such. Consult an attorney for legal advice, including drafting and execution of estate planning documents. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against all risk. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Commerce Trust is a division of Commerce Bank Investment Products: Not FDIC Insured | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee

K Innovators 2026 AND

Influencers MEET 12 PEOPLE WHO ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN KANSAS CITY words by Katie Van Luchene

photos by Kenny Johnson

ansas City is having a monumental, world-class moment, and the energy across the metro is electric. Fresh off the global triumph of hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup and seeing our iconic landmarks take center stage in the Season 4 premiere of Ted Lasso, the world sees what we have always known: KC is a powerhouse of talent, culture, and unstoppable spirit. Each year, IN Kansas City magazine celebrates the trailblazers shaping our cultural and civic landscape. From the canvas to the community clinic, architectural renovations, menus introducing international flavors, fashion designers capturing the authentic soul of the Midwest, and books that capture family memories, these dynamic leaders are redefining what it means to live, work, and thrive in the Heart of America. In this celebratory edition of IN Kansas City magazine, we are shining our hometown spotlight on the ultimate game-changers—our sixth annual collection of Innovators and Influencers.

Front, left to right: Vu Radley, Mark Launiu, and Jesse Phouangphet. Middle, left to right: Bob Kendrick, Swetha Newcomb, Zach Molzer, and Amy Kligman. Back, left to right: Tamara Weber, Tom Mardikes, Jenny Housley, Elaina Paige Thomas, and Pedro Martín.

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SPORTS

BOB KENDRICK

s the charismatic president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) in Kansas City’s historic 18th & Vine district, Kendrick has evolved from a dedicated volunteer under baseball legend Buck O’Neil into one of the region’s most prominent cultural architects. Under Kendrick’s visionary leadership, the NLBM is no longer just a local landmark; it is a dynamic, internationally recognized powerhouse. He successfully orchestrated a massive $20 million financial turnaround for the institution. Today, he spearheads the ambitious “Pitch for the Future” campaign—a $50-plus million capital project to construct a state-ofthe-art, 35,000-square-foot museum campus. By framing the Negro Leagues not simply as a byproduct of segregation, but as a triumphant story of economic empowerment

and raw excellence, he has fundamentally changed how sports history is taught. Kendrick’s creative approaches to education extend into modern multimedia. He bridged the gap between history and pop culture by collaborating with the MLB The Show video-game franchise. Serving as the in-game narrator, Kendrick brings the legendary stories and “swagger” of historic Black ballplayers straight to millions of gamers worldwide. Kendrick gets a kick when young visitors recognize him as “the guy in the video game.” And while an actor took his place in a segment of Ted Lasso, his phone blew up with congratulatory texts when the emotional episode aired. His far-reaching advocacy continues to net prestigious recognition, including the 2026 Regional Leadership Award from the

Mid-America Regional Council. Whether hosting the star-studded Hall of Game ceremonies or securing vital expansion grants, Kendrick leads with an infectious enthusiasm that keeps Kansas City firmly on the map. By preserving the legacy of past pioneers, Bob Kendrick continues to shape the civic pride, cultural identity, and future landscape of Kansas City.

NONPROFITS TAMARA WEBER

or over 20 years, Tamara Weber navigated the polished hallways of corporate leadership, culminating in an executive role at Hallmark Cards. She excelled at corporate strategy and structure. Yet a deeper calling quietly pulled her away from the boardroom and toward a commercial kitchen.

Today, she’s traded a business suit for a hairnet as she orchestrates a massive food rescue operation as the founder of Pete’s Garden, a Kansas City nonprofit, transforming surplus banquet and restaurant food into chef-quality family meals. The seeds of this profound transformation were planted long ago by her late father, Pete Sluk. Pete was an avid backyard gardener who found pure joy in sharing his abundant harvests with neighbors. When he passed away, Weber sought a meaningful way to honor his generous spirit. Thanks to her daughter’s school project that researched food waste, she noticed a glaring irony in the local culinary world: massive quantities of prepared, untouched food from major corporate cafeterias, caterers, and stadiums were being thrown away, while thousands of local families faced food insecurity. SEPTEMBER 2026| 65 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Weber bridged that gap. Pete’s Garden rescues wholesome proteins and sides, repackaging them into ready-to-eat dinners. For the working parents receiving these meals, it provides something far more valuable than just basic nutrition—it offers the gift of precious time and culinary dignity. Stepping away from corporate stability was terrifying, but Weber’s personal evolution has been profound. The corporate executive who once measured success by quarterly metrics now measures it by the gratitude on a parent’s face as they pick up their kids at Operation Breakthrough along with that night’s family meal. Through Pete’s Garden, her father’s backyard legacy has blossomed into a city-wide lifeline, proving that the most impactful leadership isn’t found at the top of a corporate ladder, but at the head of a community table.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP ELAINA PAIGE THOMAS

hen Elaina Paige Thomas was in third grade, she wrote down three goals: become a professional dancer, open a dance studio, and work with Debbie Allen, the actress and dancer who starred in the Fame movie and TV show in the ’80s. Today, the Kansas City native can check off all three— and then some. Thomas, founder of The Next Paige, has built far more than a studio at 59th and Troost. Since launching the business in 2021 and opening the building in 2022, she has created a talent agency, training ground, and creative pipeline for dancers, actors, models, singers, athletes, and other artists who want to work, live, and thrive in their hometown. “If you have the talent, that will get you in the room,” Thomas says. “But your profes-

sionalism and your character keep you there.” That philosophy guides The Next Paige, where creatives learn not only technique, but also branding, work ethic, confidence, and the business skills needed to sustain a career. Her newest chapter, Creative Collective, expands that mission through partnerships with the UMusic Hotel at 800 Grand Avenue, DISTRKCT, Mutual Musicians Foundation, and Playing For Change Foundation, creating access to resources for Kansas City creatives. The goal is simple but ambitious: make sure opportunity is not limited by money, geography, or lack of preparation. Thomas is also investing early. Her Creative Camp, now heading into its fifth year, teaches dance, acting, music, creative development, affirmations, and goal setting to young people. This year, expanded funding helped

remove tuition barriers for many students. As a single mother and entrepreneur, Thomas says her son fuels her drive. She wants him—and the next generation of Kansas City dreamers—to see that discipline, collaboration, and written goals can become a blueprint for success. “It’s bigger than me,” she says. And for Kansas City’s creative future, that bigger vision is already taking center stage.

LITERATURE PEDRO MARTÍN

f you spent 20 years creating a distinctive style at Hallmark Cards, you’d probably have a few good stories to tell. But local artist Pedro Martín didn’t just have stories—he had a 2,000-mile, laugh-out-loud family road trip locked in his memory banks.

In 2023, Martín traded greeting cards for graphic novels, releasing Mexikid. The hilarious, heartwarming memoir about packing into a Winnebago in 1977 to fetch his revolution-fighting grandfather from Mexico absolutely took the literary world by storm. It didn’t just win a Newbery Honor; it scooped up Eisner, Harvey, and Pura Belpré awards like a kid raiding a piñata. Suddenly, this neighborhood creative was a national influencer, changing the game for Latino representation in children’s literature. “Kansas City’s creative community gave me the sandbox to experiment,” Martín shares, reflecting on his two decades at Hallmark that he calls “grad school with pay.” That innovative spirit shines on every SEPTEMBER 2026| 66 | INKANSASCITY.COM

page, where traditional comic panels collide with pop-culture nods and heartfelt family history. By turning his chaotic childhood into comic gold, Martín is influencing a whole new generation of kids to embrace their own quirky roots. The best part? The adventure isn’t over. This month, Martín drops his highly anticipated companion book, Mexikid Dreams. It tackles the high-stakes drama of picking strawberries under the California sun and trying to convince his dad that playing the trombone is a viable career path. Martín’s journey proves that the most innovative thing you can do is just be fiercely, unapologetically yourself. Kansas City couldn’t be prouder to claim a small piece of his map.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

ZACH MOLZER

t just 25 years old, Molzer Development founder Zach Molzer is rewriting the playbook for Kansas City real estate. While traditional developers operate behind closed doors, Molzer has pioneered a transparent, “building in public” philosophy. His documentary-style online content has captivated a new generation of urban design enthusiasts. He is proving that real estate development can be as much about community storytelling as it is about brick and mortar. The centerpiece of his rapidly growing $45 million portfolio is the historic Aladdin Hotel downtown. Originally built in 1925, the 16-story tower has been masterfully adapted into apartments that merge vintage charm with modern amenities. Followers watch Molzer’s joy in unearth-

ing forgotten terrazzo floors and giddiness while installing a massive crystal chandelier in the Aladdin’s lobby. Residents began moving into the landmark property in August 2026. Simultaneously, Molzer has revitalized the East Crossroads with the Holtman Building. The brick-and-timber conversion breathes new life into the neighborhood, starting with its mural that features jazz icons as a tribute to 18th and Vine that’s just a block away. The structure is home to co-working hub LaborTech Studio, a private social club called The Garage, residential lofts, and the popular ’90s Americana-themed rooftop oasis, Bar Phoebe. His visionary footprint continues to expand with the recent renovation of the Advance Thresher Co. building in the historic West Bottoms, home to Rex KC, a vintage

clothing store and café. By intentionally focusing on adaptive reuse over massive, cookie-cutter walk-ups, Molzer is preserving the cultural fabric of Kansas City. He challenges the status quo with every project. For this local innovator, the goal isn’t just to construct buildings—it’s to spark an urban movement that leaves neighborhoods vibrant, inspired, and deeply connected.

ART

AMY KLIGMAN

my Kligman is rewriting the rules of regional arts leadership by stepping outside the institution. After years steering major civic platforms through her role at Charlotte Street, the Kansas City powerhouse is focusing on radical agility.

Her massive endeavors—including The Salon for Possible Futures at the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art and her upcoming Hyde Park salon project, Parlor (scheduled for 2027)—reimagine galleries not as elite vaults, but as living rooms for collective dreaming. “I’m interested in creating ‘anti-bunkers,’” Kligman says. “Instead of isolating ourselves, we need spaces designed specifically for sharing and experimentation.” Her visual language mirrors this disruptive philosophy. Kligman deliberately elevates mediums historically dismissed by the fine-art canon, fusing cake decorating techniques, neon pinks, and domestic crafts into large-scale installations. Visitors are SEPTEMBER 2026| 67 | INKANSASCITY.COM

encouraged to sit on a sofa to read a book, open drawers, or play card games, becoming active collaborators. By treating community organizing as a literal extension of her studio art, she challenges the traditional boundary between institutional director and independent creator. It is a dual perspective she regularly passes down to the next generation while teaching at the Kansas City Art Institute. “Kansas City has an incredible appetite for collective dreaming,” Kligman reflects. “But innovation requires us to constantly question who holds the keys to the room. My goal right now is simply to open more doors, tear down a few walls, and invite everyone inside to build what comes next.”

MUSIC

TOM MARDIKES

magine a song mixed entirely in the air. Instead of flat audio pumped through standard headphones, imagine a guitar materializing directly in front of you, a ghostly vocal floating behind you, and a piano vibrating against your skin. This is the physical, sensory reality of Sound Mandala, a groundbreaking aural experience that recently enveloped audiences in an immersive cocoon at Kansas City’s Unicorn Theatre. Developed over a decade, this system uses a custom floor-to-ceiling matrix of 100 independent loudspeakers to move audio dynamically across a room. Unlike traditional surround sound, creator Tom Mardikes and his team can manipulate sound waves into specific shapes and patterns.

Each speaker operates on its own dedicated channel, allowing a single note to skip like a stone across 20 speakers or burst from the center outward. The innovation marks a crowning achievement for Mardikes, who officially retired from the UMKC Conservatory in August after 45 years of pioneering sound-design education. Much like the intricate Tibetan sand mandalas that inspired its name, the installation requires painstaking, meditative programming before the session ends and it vanishes. “To experience it, you simply have to be there,” Mardikes emphasizes, noting that the unique setup is a “Mecca-concept” that cannot be replicated at home or in a car. As Mardikes transitions to professor emeritus, the ultimate dream for Sound

Mandala is broad commercialization across national theaters and auditoriums. For now, this sonic evolution remains an exclusive piece of Kansas City pride, proving that the future of audio tech is actively being engineered right in our own backyard.

FOOD & BEVERAGE SWETHA NEWCOMB

tep into Of Course Kitchen & Company in Overland Park, and your expectations of Midwestern suburban dining are instantly rewritten. Founded by private-chef-turned-restaurateur Swetha Newcomb, this south Johnson County gem is a vibrant masterclass in cultural synergy. Here, Newcomb marries her rich South

Indian heritage with modern, shareable American plates, proving that boundary-pushing culinary concepts belong exactly where people live. Newcomb’s transition from a private chef to a bustling brick-and-mortar space was a leap of faith fueled by a clear vision. She wanted to create an experience that feels both deeply personal and electrifyingly communal. The answer was a course-led, shareable format that encourages guests to slow down, pass plates, and engage with the stories behind the food. Every dish acts as a bridge between childhood memories and local, seasonal ingredients. The menu is a testament to this playful balance. Familiar Midwestern staples are reimagined through a South Asian lens, offering unexpected harmonies of spice, texture, and nostalgia. It is an approach that respects tradition while completely discarding the rulebook, giving Overland Park diners a taste SEPTEMBER 2026| 68 | INKANSASCITY.COM

of something truly progressive without having to cross the state line. Ultimately, Of Course is more than just a new neighborhood hot spot. Newcomb has cultivated a space where food sparks genuine conversation and cross-cultural curiosity. By challenging the suburbs’ culinary status quo, she is not only carving out a unique niche for herself but also expanding the boundaries of what Kansas City dining can be. And it’s not just locals who have noticed. This year, Newcomb was a semifinalist for a James Beard Award for Best Chef Midwest just three years after opening her restaurant. As she waits for the birth of her second son, Newcomb is grateful to be surrounded by a strong team including the chef de cuisine, Emily Thomas, and the general manager, Betsy Smith. For those seeking an unforgettable meal that balances warmth with innovation, the choice is simple. Of course, you have to go.

FASHION

MARK LAUNIU, VU RADLEY, AND JESSE PHOUANGPHET

f you walk through the Crossroads on any given weekend, you will see it. The bold typography. The clean geometry. The undeniable “Midwest grit.” It is the visual identity of Kansas City streetwear, and it belongs entirely to MADE MOBB. What started in 2013 as a pop-up hustle among three friends has transformed into a cultural powerhouse. Founders Mark Launiu, Vu Radley, and Jesse Phouangphet have officially graduated from local heroes to national innovators. They recently locked down a massive wholesale deal with Scheels, bringing their

signature KC look to more than 20 states. Yet, despite the massive scale, their feet remain firmly planted on local pavement. “The clothes are just the vehicle,” Mark says. “The real goal is the impact.” For the MOBB, impact looks like community action. Fresh off winning the KC Chamber’s 2026 Small Business Spirit of Inclusion Award, the trio is hyper-focused on pulling others up with them. During First Fridays, the retail shop becomes a marketplace for as many as 23 vendors selling wares. Their own designs reflect a blend of their own Samoan, Vietnamese, and Lao American roots mixed with classic Midwest hustle.

They jumped into the World Cup foray with jerseys to augment local sports teams’ gear and the recent six-item collab with QuickTrip sold out in minutes. With every new drop, MADE MOBB is proving that Kansas City doesn’t just follow trends—it sets them.

HEALTHCARE JENNY HOUSLEY

or Jenny Housley, the newly appointed president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC), corporate health insurance is inherently personal. Stepping into the top leadership role following Erin Stucky’s retirement, Housley brings a

fresh, community-first energy to the region’s largest not-for-profit health insurer. While her corporate agenda includes navigating a massive technological alliance with Highmark Inc. and celebrating Blue KC’s elite National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Health Outcomes Accreditation, her core vision remains deeply local. As a regular fixture on Kansas City’s influential leader lists, Housley views healthcare through a distinct lifestyle lens. “A healthier Kansas City directly fuels a more vibrant, thriving local culture,” she notes. Under her proactive guidance, Blue KC is actively reshaping how Kansas Citians experience daily wellness. That includes a focus on mental health through its “Mindful Advocate” initiative, the only local insurer to offer 24/7 access to behavioral health offerings. Blue KC’s Spira Care Centers are nine community-based facilities where patients SEPTEMBER 2026| 69 | INKANSASCITY.COM

can access all their healthcare needs, focusing on preventative care to reduce emergency room visits. Beyond checking for strep throat symptoms, for instance, patients are screened for real-life factors including food access, housing, and transportation. Housley’s leadership signals a modern era for local care. It is a strategy where data-driven innovation meets hometown heart, ensuring that Kansas City remains not just a great place to live, but a healthy place to truly belong. As Kansas City’s only homegrown, notfor-profit commercial health insurer, Blue KC’s structural and operational priorities focus on regional health outcomes rather than maximizing corporate wealth. With no outside shareholders or stock dividends to pay, all surplus revenue is reinvested directly back into member services and programs. Sounds like a healthy way to do business.

The Butcher,

the Baker, the … CULINARY CRAFTS IN KANSAS CITY

words by Jenny Vergara

here is something comforting about the way September settles into Kansas City. The days are still warm enough to make standing over a stove feel unnecessary, while cool mornings hint that autumn is waiting in the wings. Farmers markets overflow with the season’s final tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers, eggplant, squash, and fragrant herbs. It’s a month that invites you to slow down, wander neighborhood shops, and build dinner—and dessert—one delicious stop at a time. Long before “shopping local” became a movement, neighborhood butcher shops and bakeries formed the backbone of everyday meals. They are the artisans who wake before dawn, sharpen their knives, and fire their ovens to create the food that elevates our tables. While restaurants often receive the spotlight, these craftspeople supply our home kitchens with the building blocks of memorable meals. The beauty of shopping this way is that very little cooking is required. Pick up a thick-cut pork chop or beautifully marbled steak from your neighborhood butcher, stop by a Mexican carnicería for house-made chorizo or marinated carne asada, browse an Asian meat counter for expertly cut pork belly or duck, or visit a Halal butcher for quality lamb, beef, and chicken. Then add a crusty loaf, flaky pastry, or elegant fruit tart from a local bakery, along with vegetables from the garden or farmers market, and dinner becomes less about recipes than celebrating the people who produced it. Perhaps that’s why these trades complement each other so naturally. Butchery and baking both rely on generations of knowledge passed from one pair of hands to the next. Neither can be rushed. Through behind-the-scenes skill and hard work, both transform humble ingredients into something we can take home and turn into an anniversary dinner, backyard barbecue, or Tuesday night supper. Independent butcher shops, bakeries, and pastry kitchens remind us that food still has a human face. There’s someone who trimmed that roast, braided that challah, laminated that croissant, filled that cannoli, tied those links of sausage, rolled those tortillas, or carefully decorated that cake before it reached your table. Every purchase supports a craft that has become increasingly rare and, in doing so, strengthens the local food economy one loaf, one cake, one steak, and one neighborhood at a time. This month, skip the complicated recipes. Let the butchers, bakers (and growers) do the heavy lifting while you gather friends around the table and enjoy one of Kansas City’s most delicious seasons.

Butchers FAREWAY MEAT MARKET With three locations in Kansas City, Fareway Meat Market carries on one of Kansas City’s best-known meat market and butcher shop traditions. Alongside hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and custom orders, the shop is known for tracking down hard-to-find specialty meats, making it a favorite among adventurous home cooks. fareway.com

LOCAL PIG Inside the historic City Market, Local Pig redefines what a modern butcher shop can be in Kansas City. The whole-animal butcher specializes in locally raised meats, dry-aged steaks, inventive house-made sausages, and charcuterie, while its shelves are stocked with regional cheeses, wine, sauces and pantry goods. localpig.com

SEPTEMBER 2026 | 70 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Left: Eastern oysters available at Broadway Butcher Shop. Below: A bison burger patty from Carne Diem Fine Meats & Pantry. Opposite: Garlic rosemary sausages from Local Pig.

FRITZ’S MEATS & SUPERIOR SAUSAGE Kansas City’s oldest smokehouse has been producing handcrafted sausages since 1927. The Leawood shop is renowned for German sausage recipes, smoked hams, turkeys, ribs, jerky, and custom smoking services that have become a holiday tradition for generations. Their meat counter sells everything from smoked bacon, ribs, pork chops to sausages of every type and flavor. fritzskcmeats.com

CARNICERÍA Y TORTILLERÍA SAN ANTONIO A cornerstone of Kansas City’s Hispanic food community, this Kansas City, Kansas, market combines a full-service carnicería, fresh tortilla production, and a bustling taqueria. Customers come for marinated meats, house-made chorizo, and authentic Mexican specialties.

KRIZMAN’S SAUSAGE BROADWAY BUTCHER SHOP A Midtown institution, Broadway Butcher Shop pairs premium meats with one of the city’s best selections of artisan cheeses, seafood, and specialty groceries. Equally valued for its knowledgeable staff, the shop helps customers navigate everything from dry-aged steaks to weekend grilling projects. broadwaybutchershop.com

POLLARD’S MEAT MARKET (THE STORE) A Kansas City favorite since 1986, Pollard’s in Raytown has earned a loyal following for freshly cut beef, pork, and poultry, along with smoked meats, freezer bundles, and everyday value. More neighborhood meat market than gourmet boutique, it’s where generations of families have stocked their freezers.

THE UPPER CUT KC Located in Liberty, The Upper Cut KC combines a premium butcher shop with a popular lunch counter. Farm-raised Akaushi beef, briskets, picanha, and specialty steaks are sold along with pork, chicken, bison, lamb, and seafood. A favorite spot whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or grabbing one of the Northland’s favorite sandwiches. theuppercutkc. theuppercutkc.com

Since 1939, Krizman’s has preserved the sausage-making traditions of Strawberry Hill. The family-owned shop specializes in handcrafted Polish sausage, knackwurst, andouille, summer sausage, and other smoked specialties enjoyed by home cooks and barbecue restaurants alike. krizmansausage.com

WERNER’S SPECIALTY FOODS A Mission institution since 1973, Werner’s is one of the metro’s last old-world German sausage and sandwich shops. The family-run market produces bratwurst, knockwurst, and Polish sausage in-house while offering imported cheeses, mustards, German pantry staples, and hearty deli sandwiches. wernerswurst.com

MCGREGOR’S BUTCHER & BISTRO Part upscale butcher shop, part neighborhood deli, McGregor’s in south Overland Park offers premium steaks, chops, specialty meats, and prepared foods perfect for entertaining or an easy weeknight dinner. mcgregorsbutcherandbistro.com

BICHELMEYER MEATS Few butcher shops reflect Kansas City’s culinary heritage like Bichelmeyer Meats in Kansas City, Kansas. Operating since 1946, the legendary market serves everyone from backyard grillers to barbecue teams with whole hogs, briskets, handmade sausages, tamales, tacos, and specialty cuts. bichelmeyermeatskc.com

CARNE DIEM FINE MEATS & PANTRY Tucked away in Briarcliff Village, Carne Diem reimagines the neighborhood butcher shop with whole-animal butchery, sustainably sourced seafood, and a thoughtfully curated pantry. Premium meats, fresh pasta, artisan cheeses, grab-and-go meals, and specialty ingredients inspire home cooks at every skill level. carnediembutcher.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | 71 | INKANSASCITY.COM

GOLDEN BELT BEEF Golden Belt Beef brings ranch-direct Kansas Angus beef to Overland Park with beautifully marbled steaks, roasts, ground beef, freezer bundles, and specialty products, including beef bacon, jerky, summer sausage, and custom cuts for a whole, half, or quarter side of beef. goldenbeltbeef.com

PARADISE LOCKER MEATS Worth the drive to Trimble, Missouri, Paradise Locker Meats has become a destination for locally raised beef, pork, and handcrafted smoked meats. The family-owned meat locker is equally respected locally and nationally for custom processing, house-made sausages, and old-fashioned butcher service. paradisemeats.com

Bakers CORNFLOWER BAKED GOODS One of Kansas City’s most anticipated bakery openings, Cornflower Baked Goods is Megan Garrelts’s love letter to the art and science of baking, right down to the family recipe wallpaper in her new shop. Located next door to Rye Leawood, the neighborhood bakery specializes in strawberry shortcake cinnamon rolls, seasonal pies, layer cakes, tarts, cookies, bars, and comforting pastries alongside savory breakfast offerings and lunch sandwiches with coffee from Onyx. cornflowerbakedgoods.com

BLACKHOLE BAKERY Blackhole Bakery has become one of Kansas City’s most influential pastry destinations because of the skill of the owner, Jason Provo, and head baker Alyssa Bailey. The bakery on Troost Avenue is famous for flaky croissants, brioche cinnamon rolls, inventive mochi doughnuts, and laminated pastries that routinely sell out, while its second location, West Plaza Bodega, brings those same baked goods to an entirely new neighborhood. blackholebakery.com

FARM TO MARKET BREAD CO. Since 1993, Farm to Market Bread Co. has been supplying Kansas City restaurants,

Clockwise from left: Dot cupcakes from Dolce Bakery. Goat cheese, honey, and lardon milk bread rolls from Cornflower Baked Goods. Croissants from Ibis Bakery.

grocery stores, and home kitchens with fresh artisan breads. Best known for hearthbaked loaves, sandwich breads, baguettes and English muffins, the family-owned wholesale bakery has grown to become a staple on dinner tables throughout the metro. farmtomarketbread.com

DOLCE BAKERY Nestled in Prairie Village, Dolce Bakery has built a reputation for elegant celebration cakes, decorated cookies, and irresistible pastries that feel equally suited for birthdays and everyday indulgence. Scratch-made sweets and seasonal desserts have made it a Johnson County favorite for over two decades. dolcebakes.com

IBIS BAKERY Few bakeries have influenced Kansas City’s artisan bread movement like Ibis Bakery. Known for naturally fermented sourdough, freshly milled regional grains, and beautifully SEPTEMBER 2026 | 72 | INKANSASCITY.COM

laminated pastries, Ibis supplies many of the city’s best restaurants while welcoming customers to their counters at Messenger Coffee’s Crossroads café and Lenexa’s Black Dog Coffeehouse. ibisbakery.com

BLOOM BAKING CO. Located inside the historic City Market, Bloom Baking Co. pairs European-inspired pastries with artisan breads, cakes, and seasonal desserts. Whether you’re grabbing a buttery croissant, colorful macarons, or one of its signature bierocks, the bakery has become a must-stop while exploring one of Kansas City’s favorite neighborhoods. bloombakingco.com

AURORA CAFE & BAKERY Hidden inside an Overland Park office building, Aurora Cafe & Bakery has quietly become one of the metro’s standout bakeries. Husband-and-wife owners Javier and Kerianne Nuñez blend Mexican and

nuts, croissants, and seasonal baked goods that reward early risers. Every pastry reflects a commitment to classic technique, making it one of Kansas City’s sweet hidden gems on Grandview Road. foxandbullkc.com

Known for oversized biscuit sandwiches, homemade pop-tarts, sourdough breads, scones, and seasonal pastries, it’s the kind of neighborhood bakery where breakfast often stretches into lunch. heirloomkc.com

Since 1945, McLain’s Bakery has been woven into Kansas City’s culinary fabric. From its iconic butter rolls and cinnamon rolls to birthday cakes, their famous chocolate chip cookies, and breakfast pastries, the family-owned bakery continues to blend nostalgia with modern café fare across several metro locations. mclainskc.com

MORNING ROUNDS BAKERY

BUREK AND CAKE

Now baking in the Crossroads, Morning Rounds has become a destination for exceptional croissants, breakfast pastries, and cookies. The bakery balances French technique and nostalgic flavors with excellent barista-made morning coffee drinks. morningroundsbakery.com

FOX AND BULL BAKING CO.

HEIRLOOM BAKERY & HEARTH

Bringing the flavors of the Balkans to the Northland, Burek and Cake specializes in flaky, hand-rolled burek filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables in addition to elegant European cakes, tortes, and pastries. It’s a delicious introduction to Bosnian baking traditions and one of Kansas City’s most distinctive neighborhood bakeries.

Fox and Bull quickly earned a loyal following when it opened in 2022, specializing in meticulously laminated pastries, artisan dough-

Housed in a former Brookside gas station, Heirloom Bakery & Hearth celebrates scratch baking from morning to afternoon.

European influences through exceptional conchas, artisan breads, pastries, and scratch-made café fare served with genuine hospitality. auroracafebakery.com

MCLAIN’S BAKERY + MARKET

Clockwise from top: Vegan, gluten-free cookies from The Littlest Bake Shop. Blueberry cream puff from HAMU Bakery. Blackberry mascarpone cronut from Fox and Bull Baking Co..

THE LITTLEST BAKE SHOP Kansas City’s first dedicated gluten-free and vegan bakery proves that dietary restrictions never have to mean sacrificing flavor. Located on Troost, The Littlest Bake Shop creates scratch-made pastries, cookies, cakes, brunch and lunch dishes, and specialty coffee drinks that appeal to everyone, regardless of how they dine. littlestbakeshop.com

DELICIAS BAKERY A longtime favorite in Kansas City, Kansas, Delicias Bakery specializes in custom celebration cakes, including tres leche cake, traditional Mexican pastries with tropical fruit fillings, and colorful desserts made from scratch. Family owned and operated, the neighborhood bakery has become a trusted destination for birthdays, weddings, and everyday sweet cravings alike. deliciaskc.com

YOLI TORTILLERIA From its Westside headquarters, Yoli has transformed the humble tortilla into an artisan craft. Using heirloom corn, traditional nixtamalization and stone grinding, the nationally recognized company produces exceptional corn and Sonoran-style flour tortillas found in many of Kansas City’s best restaurants and home kitchens. eatyoli.com

HAMU BAKERY One of the metro’s few Taiwanese bakeries, HAMU introduces Kansas City to the lighter side of Asian baking. Its delicate crepe cakes, pillowy milk bread, pork floss buns, and not-too-sweet pastries offer a refreshing contrast to traditional American bakeries and showcase the elegance of Taiwanese pastry culture. hamubakeryks.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | 73 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Home as Haven

A TIRED ‘60S RANCH IS TRANSFORMED INTO A STATE-OFTHE-ART SANCTUARY FOR A BUSY PROFESSIONAL COUPLE words by Judith Fertig photos by Aaron Leimkuehler

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Above: Jack Rinkes and Holly Post. Left: The couple’s shih tzu, Nelson, relaxes on one of a pair of vintage midcentury-modern chairs in the great room. Apparatus Studio horsehair-and-bronze sconces flank the fireplace; a Frame TV hangs above.

he year was 1963. A new six-bedroom ranch sprawled out in Prairie Village. Fast forward to 2023. Holly Post and Jack Rinkes reconnected after years apart and married in April. They purchased that 1963 ranch in September, then spent the next 18 months living on the lower level while they renovated indoors and out. “We thought this home had great bones,” says Post, the owner of Hollyday Med Spa + Aesthetics. Rinkes owns F45 Training. The newlyweds and busy professionals wanted their first home together to be an oasis, a haven where they can relax and recharge at the end of the day. Their key style elements were character, movement, and texture. Design inspirations included “my friend Stephanie Ulsh’s home and Kelly Wearstler’s kitchen in Los Angeles,” says Post. She called on designer friends

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Top left: A MOUS Studio cerused white-oak table on a cast-brass base is centered on a circular seagrass rug in the foyer. Top right: In the great room, a Calacatta Fabricotti marble-backed bar and a Rosemary Hallgarten game table and chairs are overlooked by a Marcus Cain acrylic on canvas. Above: The couple’s Lhasa-poo, Winnie, matches the champagne-hued mohair upholstery on the pair of sofas in the petit salon. All three of the couple’s dogs are captured in a commissioned work by COLLABS on the back wall. SEPTEMBER 2026 | 76 | INKANSASCITY.COM

A gilded Fisher Weisman chandelier highlights the custom fluted-plaster surround on the dining room fireplace. Dining table arrangement by Bergamot & Ivy.

Kathy Lee and Tanner Morgan for help achieving the “high-end hotel” look she was after. Kelly Kuhn of Blue Gallery and Scott Heidmann of Heidmann Art Salon became her “art agents,” finding more pieces to add to the couple’s collection. Post wanted “layers of lighting,” says Morgan, including chandeliers, pendants, picture lights, sconces, and oil-filled candles. During the renovation, the couple used Cicada Company for the build, Red Beard Cabinets for custom work throughout the home, and Hardscape Con-

struction for the amazing pool, kitchen, and lounging areas outside. Now that, whew, they can breathe again, the couple is excited to open their home for the Renovation Sensation Tour and for you, dear readers. The spacious, light-filled foyer greets you with its graphic Jennifer Janesko charcoal on archival-paper drawing, then leads to the moody “petite salon,” perfect for cocktails, to the left. A pair of curvy sofas in a velvety buff cozy up to the marble-topped coffee table. On the

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far wall, a commissioned work from COLLABS captures the couple’s canines—Belle, Nelson, and Winnie—on a sofa, of course. Ceramics from Linda Lighton and other artists accent the shelves on the back wall. To the right of the entry, the dining room is wallpapered and curtained in a Pierre Frey slubbed silk, all the better to show off the Isabelle Menin digital photograph. An artisan from Minneapolis created the

fluted-plaster fireplace surround, set off by the coffered ceiling. In the kitchen, the “movement” amps up with the striking Arabescato Corchia marble on the large custom walnut-based island and the backsplash. The mix of materials continues with black quartzite counters over white cabinetry flanking the island. “I wanted this to look like an old-world European café,” says Post. The moody butler’s

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Above: The generous kitchen is a natural gathering place for just the couple or a crowd. Right: Two views of the pool terrace, which offers a three-season alfresco entertaining space, including a complete outdoor kitchen, dining area, and built-in lounge surrounding the marble firepit. Dining table arrangement by Bergamot & Ivy.

pantry offers the perfect place to foam that latte while enjoying Kaw River paintings by Lisa Grossman. A black, steel-framed glass door angles out to the oasis—the Tuscan pool surrounded by limestone, a chef ’s outdoor kitchen, and lounging areas that put the “hey, hey, hey” in haven. The casual great room, with its soaring ceiling and view of the oasis in the back, features a gaming table area and a semi-circular bar topped with Calacatta Fabricotti Fantasy marble, also on the fireplace surround. The vintage barstools are by Cleo Baldon, a modernist California architect and furniture designer. On the opposite side of the house, you might think you’re in fantasyland, but it’s the closet and primary bath of your dreams, kitted out in custom white oak, with a space and a spot for everything. Underfoot and in the double shower, marble in a banded design continues the high-end look. The primary bedroom in soft and subdued neutrals is not without a flourish or two, either. Textured wallpaper from Élitis, the French luxury house, wraps the room while a pair of striking Armor Pendant lights in chainmail and milk glass hover over the bedside tables. “The look is luxurious and yet very approachable,” says Morgan, “reflective of their lives, their taste, and their travels.” “It’s a home we want to grow old in,” says Post. “Our home is our haven, where we can just be.” SEPTEMBER 2026 | 79 | INKANSASCITY.COM

In the primary bedroom, the couple’s shih tzu, Nelson, relaxes on the custom upholstered bed from Ambella Home dressed in Peacock Alley bedding.

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Take the Tour RENOVATION SENSATION On Wednesday, September 16, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., this home will be open to view as part of the 2026 Renovation Sensation Tour, a benefit for the Shawnee Mission East SHARE program. This year’s homes tour includes four beautifully renovated or newly built homes in the Shawnee Mission East area, featuring different styles and trends in home design For tour passes and details, visit smerensen.com.

Above: The primary bath is fitted with custom white-oak woodwork by Red Beard Cabinets. Right: Post’s enviable shoe closet.

THE IT LIST Cabinetry Red Beard Cabinets redbeardcabinets.com

Construction Cicada Company cicadaco.com

Interior Design Kathy Lee Interiors kathrynglee@gmail.com Morgan Madison Design morganmadisondesign.com

Landscape Construction Hardscape Construction hardscapeconstructionkc.com

Floral Arrangements Bergamot & Ivy bergamotandivy.com

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Breathtaking views. And that's not even the best part.

A remarkable skyline will capture your attention. The people you enjoy those views with are what makes it memorable. Whether gathering with friends, meeting new neighbors, or simply enjoying a quiet sunset, we're proud to create places where it all comes together.

IN Kansas City September 2026