Johnson County, KS February 2024

F E B R UA RY 2 02 4

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Editor This time of year I always get a little antsy about the colder weather and the lack of sunshine. I start to wish I was on a warm beach somewhere while the cooler KC air finds its way out, and we move into spring. Don’t get me wrong–I love having four seasons and living in Kansas City, but the long winter months start to feel a little too long once we hit the middle of February. I love traveling to a warm destination during the winter, but regardless of how nice it feels to enjoy some time away to soak up the sun, as cliche as it sounds, there really is no place like home. The local community that we have planted roots in and the relationships that we have invested in make our community special and feel like we are right where we should be. And let’s be real,Kansas City is just special. We have a great mix of both midwestern charm and the excitement of a big city. The people are genuine, the food is amazing, our sports teams are fun to support, the schools are great, there are a variety of things to do to celebrate the culture and arts around our city, our real estate market is reasonable, and we are proud to support our local community. The Kansas City branded market has boomed over the last several years, and it is commonplace to see people proudly wearing their KC gear to show their pride in their city and their favorite local brands.

We have so many talented people right here in our community. From designers, to artists, to visionaries who bring new businesses to our city, to musicians, to athletes, to culinary experts, and so on, they all have a huge part to play in the culture and heartbeat of our city. In this issue, we are celebrating some of the folks who have brought their talent to our community in one way or another. Our local businesses are the backbone of our city. Let’s keep supporting these local business owners to not only boost our local economy and keep dollars right here in our community, but to also directly impact and support local families.

Stay warm! Spring is right around the corner!

ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @ J O H N S O N C O U N T YC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Wade Kotarba | wade.kotarba@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, D. Leon, Judy Goppert, Allison Swan, Brad Zollars C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Janie Jones

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/JOHNSONCOUNTY

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

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Featured

12 18 28 34 6

18 On the Cover

Event Spaces that Inspire

Three distinct destinations for unforgettable experiences

Yarn art on canvas by Vonda Miller

BioFit

Customize your workout at this client-driven gym

Making Yarn Pretty!

Local fiber artisan creates intricate designs from yarn and imagination.

It’s a Family Affair for These Entertainment Hosts Meet The Model and The Mad Scientist behind KC’s Award-Winning DJs!

Photography: Janie Jones Photography

Departments 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Business Monthly

12

Must See EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES

18

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

24

Spa Day LOCAL SERVICES

28

Artist’s Palette ARTS + CULTURE

34

Back Stage ENTERTAINMENT

40

Local Limelight SPORTS + RECREATION

“ DLR Group is an integrated design firm, providing architecture, engineering, and interiors from 32 offices nationwide.

What prompted us to move to the Aspiria campus was the need for a temporary lease space while we refurbished our existing 25,000 SF building. We signed up for a 6-month period during our remodel.

Our lease included every utility, free parking and all the amenities. I would recommend the Aspiria campus to others in a similar situation and add that it’s been extraordinarily convenient ” Andy Anderson Senior Principal, DLR Group

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FEBRUARY 2024

Image Studios has over 30 beauty professionals!

Hair Stylists & Barbers | Lashes | Skin Botox | Massage | Wax & Sugaring

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

KELLY YOUNG

I’ve been a stylist in Overland Park for the last 10 years, and have always believed in the transformative power of a good hair day. I offer a wide range of services from Color and Haircuts, to Special Event Make Up and Styling. Step into my inviting space today, where you will leave feeling refreshed, pampered and confident, whatever the occasion!

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Seven Days is Marking it's 10 Year Anniversary

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I love to craft beauty with a touch of serenity. With 18 years in the industry, I have passion in - Lived in Color, Grey Blending, Balayage, and Healthy Hair/ Scalp Care.

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RILEY FUCHS

I specialize in lived-in color, blonding, and concealed bead extensions. I’m most known for creating a welcoming atmosphere, going above and beyond to ensure the best experience for clients in my studio.

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(913) 742-0901

SevenDays® is a Kansas-City based nonprofit organization that overcomes hate by promoting kindness and understanding through education and dialogue. SevenDays® is marking its 10th anniversary and will begin Wednesday, April 10, 2024, with its Kindness Breakfast and will host the new Community Kindness Festival on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

On the ensuing days, SevenDays® encourages the public to celebrate kindness through other daily themes.

For a full list of ways to get involved, visit sevendays.org

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ JOHNSONCOUNTY

Laser Derm Med Spa Completes Recent Expansion Laser Derm Med Spa has added over 2,000 square feet of newly renovated space to their existing footprint— allowing the addition of three new Cynosure laser hair removal systems, bringing the total lasers available for hair removal at Laser Derm to ten.

Along with having a laser for every skin tone and hair type, Laser Derm offers a 'no contracts or packages' approach to laser hair removal by their licensed RNs.

Elevated • Attainable • Design Specializing in Pretty AND Practical Spaces Room Refresh - Mini Kitchen Renovation - Curb Appeal Refresh

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KANSAS WELLNESS presented by Liquid Mobile

5 Essential Tips for Revitalizing Your Wellness Advancing your health starts with the right choices! This includes the right clinician providing the right service based on the best outcomes that can be individualized for your unique needs. Here are 5 essential wellness tips that are having a positively profound impact on our community: Reestablish Weight Management Symptoms: Sleep apnea, depression, hypertension, low energy, mood swings, decreased drive Weight management can be a challenge, often involving a multitude of complexities including metabolic functions and biochemical factors. Being overweight even by 5 to 10 lbs. can cause serious health issues.

When it comes to weight loss, adopting a comprehensive, health-centric approach is paramount for achieving the best results. Average weight loss in clinical trials is showing 15% to 20% of body weight.

Top Choices: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, BioBoost Replenish Depleted Hormones Symptoms: Hot flashes, abdominal fat, low energy, decreased drive, hair loss, lack mental clarity Hormones are key to almost everything the body does and vital to how the body operates. Men and women may see declining hormone levels as early as 20s to 30s, and this can further decline at an accelerated rate as we continue to age. Bio-identical hormone ointments can be applied quickly and absorb within seconds. No need to worry about painful injections, messy creams or surgical implants.

Top Choices: Bi-est, Progesterone, Testosterone, DHEA Ointments Replace Lost Nutrients Symptoms: Inflammation, weakness, fatigue, dehydration, sunken eyes, dry skin One of the main reasons why IV hydration is effective is its ability to provide immediate nutrition and essential vitamins with up to 100% absorption for relief and replenishment. Drinking fluids orally can take time to be absorbed and may not provide sufficient nutrient distribution. IV hydration, on the other hand, bypasses the digestive system and delivers fluids directly into the bloodstream.

Top Choices: IV Hydration such as Cold & Flu, Myers Cocktail, NAD+ Restore Low Vitamins Symptoms: Muscle weakness, forgetfulness, pale skin, dizziness, tiredness Vitamin deficiency can occur if you don’t eat the right foods or if your body has trouble absorbing and processing essential vitamins. Low vitamin levels can also be caused by the immune system attacking cells in your body, stomach or intestinal insufficiencies, and certain diseases such as Crohn’s and Celiac disease. Restoring these vitamins through injections help them become instantly available to the body.

Top Choices: Vitamin injections such as B12, D, Glutathione Reclaim Your Time Symptoms: Stress, anxiety, lack of focus, decreased mental clarity Wellness options should be available when you need it, where you need it. Our experienced nurses are equipped to provide a variety of services including IV Therapy, hormone therapy, lab testing, weight loss management, telehealth, and aesthetics.

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ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Advent Orangery

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M UST SE E | E V E N T P LA NNING + SERVICES

“There needed to be a market disruptor, a space and structure that stood out from the crowd.”

Advent Orangery

Steve Beaumont is the visionary and owner behind Chateau Avalon Hotel, Avent Orangery, and The Mint, three distinct destinations for unforgettable experiences. Beaumont's entry into development dates back to 1994, marked by a desire to craft spaces that bring people together. His first venture, WestGlen Entertainment Center in Shawnee, was the first center in Kansas City where a movie theater was the anchor, complemented by restaurants and entertainment, which set the stage for his future projects.

In 1998, the birth of his second child prompted a shift in focus toward creating a space for couples seeking a romantic getaway. This vision materialized into Chateau Avalon, blending the charm of a bed and breakfast with the allure of Las Vegas. The theme rooms became a unique

signature, offering guests an extraordinary and personalized experience.

The idea for the Avent Orangery was in the original drawings of Chateau Avalon, an event hall labeled as a “conservatory."

“Almost all of the event and wedding destinations in the area fall into three categories: barn, brick or industrial building conversion (usually urban core), or hotel ballroom. There needed to be a market disruptor, a space and structure that stood out from the crowd.”

It wasn't until January 2020 that Beaumont brought this vision to life.

Completed in late 2020, it faced delays due to the pandemic but finally opened its doors in 2022, offering a European fairytale setting for weddings and events unlike any other in Kansas City.

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“My goal is to exceed the amenities of literally every other event venue in KC.”

Advent Orangery

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M UST SE E | EVENT P L ANN IN G + SE RVICE S

“With much research, I found my favorite European structure was called an orangery—a term that comes from orange.

Since the 18th century, citrus fruit has been a sought after commodity, however, their climate could not accommodate them. With enough wealth, one could create a glass structure that is open in the spring and summer then closed in winter to keep the fruit trees alive. Quickly this became the symbol of wealth, power and status all over Europe. With the largest chateau in the region, it was only fitting that the Chateau Avalon has the largest orangery constructed for 600 miles.”

With the success of Avent Orangery, Beaumont embarked on a new venture in the heart of suburbia, The Mint. Housed in a former Bank of America building, The Mint seamlessly blends finance history with a contemporary event space.

The names of Steve's venues carry special significance. Avent Orangery combines "A" from Avalon with "event" reflecting the venue's ties to Chateau Avalon and its unique event offerings. On the other hand, The Mint was a serendipitous discovery, inspired by the architectural resemblance to iconic U.S. Mints found through a Google search. The name change sparked a cascade of creative ideas and design elements that uniquely characterize the venue.

“We designed a space that utilizes the giant bank vault’s 6,000 pound door to the new bar. The safe deposit boxes were retained for thematic elements and even some of the safes have been revitalized and put on display. The six lane drive thru is being enclosed to create The Benjamin Room—this larger ballroom on the west side will be the ceremony area and later becomes the dance ballroom. Inside the main structure, over 18,000 square feet of former bank space is dedicated to a banquet

hall, multiple bars, two lounges, a catering area, bridal quarters, groom lounge and even an underground outdoor cigar bunker for the groom and his groomsmen.

“Unique amenities include a secret door for the bride and groom to suddenly appear in the middle of the crowd, Vegasinspired ceiling lighting to customize the environment, and even the first Opti-Mist fireplace in KC. This fireplace is a flame hologram broadcast onto ionized water vapor that looks so real people are afraid to touch it.

“My goal is to exceed the amenities of literally every other event venue in KC. We created a spreadsheet of all the top venues and The Mint would meet or beat everyone else in every category possible, with over 20,000 total square footage of space, an outside courtyard, separate event space and banquet hall, four room bridal quarters, custom groom room, the only arcade in an event space in the region, custom overhead LED lighting, frame TV’s for custom art displays, private catering prep room, a huge parking lot, ability to live stream events, secret door entry, and even a bar and lounge inside a huge bank vault.”

Beaumont's journey is not just about creating spaces—it’s about crafting destinations that inspire emotion and foster connections. With Chateau Avalon Hotel, Avent Orangery, and The Mint, he has left an indelible mark on Kansas City's event landscape, offering unparalleled experiences that transcend the ordinary.

As The Mint opens its doors, they invite guests to embark on a new chapter of unforgettable celebrations.

Chateau Avalon and Avent Orangery are located at 701 Village West Parkway in Kansas City. The Mint is located at 12345 West 95th Street in Lenexa. For more information, visit chateauavalonhotel. com, aventorangery.com, and kcmint.com.

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The Mint

The Mint Groom Room

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M UST SE E | E V E N T P LA NNING + SERVICES

WORKOUTS CAN FEEL INEFFECTIVE OR LEAVE YOU HURTING. YOU SHOULDN’T HAVE TO FEEL THAT WAY

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

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ARTICLE BY D. LEON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

THE CLIENT-DRIVEN GYM

BIOFIT 18

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

The desire to get back into shape following the start of a new year is a common goal shared by many, but

Both have experience in personal training. Kim is a former science teacher, and Justin is a physical

“WE REALLY, TRULY BELIEVE THAT EVERYONE’S AN ATHLETE AND EVERYONE BELONGS IN THEIR LOCAL FITNESS GYM.” easing your way back into the gym can be tough.

Injuries, fear of being ridiculed, and accountability are some of the factors that often play against people wanting to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

The problem?

Lack of customization and a onesize fits all concept according to an Overland Park gym who is regarded by some as Kansas City’s best kept secret; BioFit. The client-driven gym is known for helping people feel comfortable in their own skin while meeting some of their most complex fitness goals.

“People feel out of place at big gyms and aggressive workout trends don't really work for their bodies,” explained Justin Prier, owner of BioFit. "We don't follow a one size fits all protocol at BioFit we believe that it’s about the clients and their stories.”

Justin and his wife, Kim opened up BioFit more than ten years ago.

therapist who has spent over 25 years applying science-based knowledge to his business model.

At BioFit, elite trainers work with clients one-on-one to obtain optimal results by incorporating physical and restorative therapy based fitness that helps build strength, promotes a healthy recovery, and teaches clients how to build toward a healthier lifestyle.

Justin says the biggest takeaway is the friendliness of his staff that is committed to proving anyone, regardless of age can get the results they want without feeling fearful.

“We really, truly believe that everyone's an athlete and everyone belongs in their local fitness gym,” said Justin. "They don't have to look a certain way, and they don't have to move their body in a certain way. It's just taking those first positive steps forward to allow that snowball to really build.”

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Over the past year, BioFit doubled its size to a now 7,000-square-foot space that includes agility areas, massage and bodywork rooms, outdoor and indoor turf areas, free weights, specialized weight and cardio equipment, and more.

With these tools, the family-run operation is able to offer former athletes, people battling spinal cord injuries and limited mobility the space to heal, reengage and take control of their lives.

Justin estimates since its inception the team has changed the lives of thousands of Kansas Citians, and over the next coming years he sees the team expanding due to continued demand. Regardless of what BioFits next steps are, the team is ready to continue to cater to their clients who continue to spread the word on the program’s success while gaining the results they crave.

“We have people come in with severe pain and long-standing pain and inability to move. They come here and start getting sensations back. We believe our clients are the hero in their story, and we’re here to guide them with sound fitness principles that are often neglected in other settings,” said Justin.

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H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

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The Haley Epps Team is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

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Re f re s h Me d i c a l Spa ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

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S PA DAY | LO CAL SERVI CE S

Refresh Medical Spa, under the dedicated ownership of Paige Meyer, has carved out a niche by blending passion, personalized care, and cutting-edge treatments. In 2014, Meyer joined Refresh as a nurse injector. Fueling her passion for the field, she approached the previous owner in 2019 with a bold proposition: to purchase the business. At just 27 years old, she took the reins in January 2020.

“My dream with Refresh was to have a space where employees and clients alike felt at home, part of a family and comfortable in a judgment-free environment to feel their best,” says Meyer. “I can happily say that we have achieved that and are so excited to expand in 2024 to serve more of our community!”

Refresh boasts a repertoire of popular services that cater to diverse beauty needs. Botox and Dysport lead the pack, with Refresh proudly holding the title of being the top 1% Dysport provider in Kansas. Many are familiar with Botox injections most commonly used to prevent muscles from moving to smooth wrinkles on the face. Dysport works similarly and is used to improve the appearance of deep facial lines or wrinkles between the eyebrows and relaxes the muscles. Facials, advanced needling Morpheus treatments, and dermal filler treatments also enjoy immense popularity.

One distinctive feature is what they call their injectable memberships—this membership acts like a bank where clients can choose from three tiers. Each tier provides monthly deposits into the account, ensuring clients always receive the best pricing along with discounts on products and additional services.

This unique approach aligns with Refresh's commitment to making skin health maintenance accessible and affordable.

Adding to their array of services, Refresh is set to unveil Moxi laser treatments, a non-ablative laser with a gentle approach suitable for all skin types throughout the year. Moxi promises new cell growth, rejuvenating the skin by boosting collagen and reducing unwanted pigmentation. With a quick treatment time and topical numbing, clients can conveniently schedule sessions during their lunch breaks.

Meyer emphasizes their commitment to enhancing beauty naturally.

“We are very unique in our approach to naturally enhance beauty, never resulting in an "overdone" look, which most people fear coming to a medical spa. Some positive feedback from clients includes the fact that we spend additional time with each person and aren't pushy, but rather respect each client's individual goals. Again, our approach is to build long-term relationships with our clients, not just turn and burn. We also place heavy emphasis on continuing education and are constantly training on the newest techniques that provide not only better, but safer results for our clients. That's one of the most exciting things about our industry—things are constantly changing and we love learning!”

In a move that symbolizes Refresh's growth and success, Meyer announces the spa's expansion, a testament to the hard work of the staff and the loyalty of their supportive clientele.

“We will be located just right down the street from our current location in Overland Park in a space triple the size! I am so incredibly thankful to our hard working staff and supportive clients for helping make this happen.”

Refresh Medical Spa is located at 13453 Switzer Road in Overland Park. For more information, visit refreshhealthspa.com.

“My dream with Refresh was to have a space where employees and clients alike felt at home, part of a family and comfortable in a judgment-free environment to feel their best.”

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AVENT ORANGERY

THE MINT

A beautiful greenhouse venue located on the grounds of the Chateau Avalon Hotel

Kansas City’s first luxury bank-inspired venue now booking in Lenexa, KS

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SCHEDULE A TOUR

aventorangery.com | info@aventorangery.com (913) 701-3484

kcmint.com | info@kcmint.com (913) 701-3484

701 Village West Pkwy, Kansas City, KS 66111

12345 West 95th St, Lenexa, KS 66215

We strive to tackle stigma and achieve recovery of Major Depressive Disorder by use of TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) treatment

REASONS TO CONSIDER TMS FDA approved treatment since 2008 Limited side effects compared to medications Complete depression and anxiety treatment in as little as 9 weeks Covered by most medical insurances Greater response/remission rates compared to medications Quick treatments in serene office setting

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February 23-25, 2024 Overland Park Convention Center

Scott Hefner

Executive Vice President & Principal

For all your employee benefits and business insurance needs Main: 913.345.0440 Direct: 913.396.0860 Mobile: 913.980.9931 Fax: 913.345.2608 shefner@bukaty.com www.bukaty.com

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4601 College Boulevard, Suite 100 Leawood, Kansas 66211 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

M A K I N G YA R N

Local fiber artisan creates intricate designs from yarn and imagination.

ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

PR

ETTY!

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W When you see Vonda Miller’s yarn art on canvas, you have to take a second look to realize these lovely pieces are actually woven from yarn. Her signature technique intertwines colorful strands into all sorts of scenes. She has been doing this art on canvas for two years. Vonda has been a business administrator for ten years, and now works at KC Care as a Provider Scheduling Manager, overseeing the schedules of 20 providers.

“At age 47, I decided to go to college at the urging of my three sons, and I now have an associate degree in business administration, a bachelor’s in business management and a master’s in business administration, which I completed in November of 2021,” she explained. “I gave myself a personal challenge to complete my MBA with a 4.0 and I did! When I was done, I had a lot of free time and wanted to find a crafty hobby. I knew I wanted to do something with yarn but wanted it to be different from anything anyone else has created. I searched online and found yarn art, but nothing grabbed me. So, I decided to come up with my own technique - yarn art on canvas!”

Vonda learned to crochet at seven and began again to crochet facemasks during COVID. After creating random yarn art on canvas pieces, she soon learned to accomplish a specific texture or 3D look, then transformed part of her basement into an art studio.

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CU LT U RE

She sells her art through Facebook, Instagram under ‘Vonda Miller Art’ and word of mouth. She has been featured at several locales, including three months at Lee’s Summit City Hall, Westport Art Fair, West Elm on the Plaza and the 18th and Vine Art Festival. She has also applied to sell her art at the Brookside Art Fair this May. Vonda was recently named as one of the board of directors for Summit Art in Lee’s Summit, a 501c3 nonprofit organization supporting visual art and artists.

Vonda is a proud mother of a daughter and three sons, and grandmother of nine grandchildren. She is happily married to a man who encourages and fully supports her.

“My art is motivating for many reasons,” she confirmed.

“I get excited about every piece I make. I love that people want my art in their homes, yet if no one ever bought another picture, I would still keep creating unique pieces. I will continue my journey of ‘Making Yarn Pretty.’”

Visit summitart.org/portfolio/vonda-miller to see some of her art.

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MEET THE MODEL AND THE MAD SCIENTIST BEHIND KC’S AWARD -WINNING DJS!

It ’s a Fa m i ly A f fair for These Entertainment Hosts ARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHIEMER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES & TORI ERWIN - J. WING PHOTOGRAPHY

Tori Erwin - J. Wing Photography

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“

“ W h at m a ke s u s d o w h at we d o i s n ot o n l y t h e p a s s io n fo r t h e mu s ic but fo r b e i n g a b le t o s i m p l y c re at e .”

Chances are you’ve enjoyed the stellar sights and sounds of DJ Joe KC and DJ Ice Kole at any number of prominent events around the metro over the years, some of those including Boulevardia and Irish Fest at Crown Center, Third Thursdays at The Nelson-Atkins, Enchant Christmas at Legends Field, Planet Comicon at Bartle Hall, and the 2023 NFL Draft and Super Bowl Parade at Union Station. Likewise, you may have danced the night away to their memorable music lineups at a friend’s wedding, your company event, a school dance, or a family party.

“We have been blessed to be a part of so many core elements of growth in Kansas City; not only new venues but also staples like Union Station, The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and so many more of our beautiful venues.”

Let us formally introduce you to Kansas City’s married and wildly entertaining powerhouse behind 2 the MAAXE, which has been lighting up dance floors since 2016! Most notably known for their DJ monikers, Joseph (the mad scientist) and Nikol (model by day) have also taken bringing audio-visual services to events to a completely new level; we’re talking silent disco parties, and 360 video booths at music festivals, galas and professional games, and standout deejay performances at corporate celebrations and formal school dances and beyond.

“What makes us do what we do is not only the passion for the music but for being able to simply create.

They call me DJ Joe ‘The Mad Scientist’ because my house used to be covered wall to wall in deejay gear, TVs, and smoke and lights everywhere,” Joseph says.

DJ aside, he’s also a drummer, so naturally the “creator” that he is, he brainstormed putting the two together and conjured up an entire drumming DJ show to add to their service list.

All of the lights, the noise, and the madness, if you will, are rooted in their love for creating and engineering a complete “journey” for their audience, no matter the size. The mentality is “whether there are 5 or 5000 people, they’re getting a 5000-person performance.”

It’s that curated journey that continues to expand its extensive events list into venues like The National Golf Club, H&R Block, Kansas City Country Club, and the Intercontinental Hotel. It’s also a testament to his popularity that DJ Joe has one nationwide client who has used him every year for over a decade, going so far as to include him in their annual company recognition program.

When you get behind the scenes to understand the business, you realize what makes 2 the MAAXE even sweeter is the family affair it encompasses. DJ Joe actually got his start around the city in 1997 as an independent performer, but as fate would have it, he and DJ Ice Kole met at a Nelson-Atkins event they were both working, soon blending their families and meshing their entrepreneurial spirits and skills into a full production company, including two of their children who also deejay at events alongside them.

When asked what some of their favorite events are, they shared “Boulevardia is the most fun creatively because we get to showcase the energy of the equipment AND our individual music tastes. It’s our Super Bowl!”

CONTINUED >

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Tori Erwin - J. Wing Photography

“

We h ave b e e n b le s s e d t o b e a p a r t of s o m a ny c o re e le m e nt s of g row t h i n K a n s a s C it y. . .

”

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The company motto is to always give them more than what they paid for. They make booking with them any easy one-stop shop, providing fair pricing, timely arrivals, and an outstanding musical performance that will not be forgotten. As Joe stated specifically about weddings in particular, “There are three things everyone remembers: 1) How beautiful the bride looked in her dress 2) Whether the food was terrible or great 3) Whether they had a hell of a time or a terrible time at the reception/party, and that’s our baby.”

They have quite literally been a part of almost every journey throughout the growth of the metro in recent years, and this is your memo to ensure you follow along for their upcoming events AND book them for your next event for a guaranteed GREAT time!

Website: www.2themaaxe.com Instagram: @djjoekc Facebook: @djjoekc

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A DOCUMENTARY LOOKING TO CHANGE THE GAME

Not

Good Enough ARTICLE BY BRAD ZOLLARS

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Launched in 2021, Shut Out the Stigma, a partnership between Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Kansas City and the Kansas City Royals, is an initiative focused on raising awareness about the importance of behavioral health. Their latest effort, the documentary Not Good Enough, boldly challenges parents and coaches to think about how their actions before, during, and after a game can negatively affect the mental health of our youth athletes. It’s an unflinching look that will resonate with viewers long past the final frame.

We sat down with the director from Plan A Films, Chusy Haney-Jardine to discuss his thoughts on the film’s message and what he learned during the process.

QUESTION: WHAT DID YOU TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR INTERVIEWS WITH PARENTS, COACHES, YOUTH SPORTS DIRECTORS, HEALTH CARE EXPERTS, AND CHILDREN, AS PART OF THE DOCUMENTARY?

A few key learnings for me: 1. Attitude and effort trump outcome by a thousand miles.

2. Communicate less transactionally and more transformationally (watch the film for more on that).

3. We are all doing our best as parents. We tend to model how we were parented, or take a 180-degree approach, so our habits, actions, and suppositions exist out of what we know. Nobody gave us a manual, so give yourself a moment to reflect.

CONTINUED >

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QUESTION: DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR PARENTS WHO ARE STRUGGLING TO FIND A HEALTHY WAY TO SUPPORT THEIR CHILDREN BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER COMPETING?

I think removing outcome, and nurturing process is best. Make it ok for them to express themselves, regardless of the content of that conversation, and let them come to you. Make it safe for them to say whatever is in their heart. And encourage good effort and good attitude. Simply tell your kids, “I love to watch you play.”

QUESTION: YOU’VE MADE MANY TRADITIONAL FILMS OVER YOUR CAREER BUT IN CONTRAST, WHY DO YOU THINK DOCUMENTARIES ARE SUCH A POWERFUL MEDIUM WHEN TRYING TO DELIVER A MESSAGE?

I think fiction, for the most part, entertains but remains ineffective as a catalyst for real change. Documentaries let me see real humans overcome and triumph, and in their stories, I see my own.

QUESTION: IN YOUR MIND, HOW IMPORTANT IS THE MESSAGE THAT MENTAL HEALTH IS JUST AS VITAL AS PHYSICAL HEALTH FOR A PERSON’S OVERALL WELLBEING?

What good is a fit body with a sick mind? Both need to be nurtured equally. Hats off to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City and the Royals for funding this effort.

QUESTION: AS SOMEONE WHO’S LIVED AROUND THE WORLD, IS THERE ANYTHING ABOUT KANSAS CITY THAT HAS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN THE TIME YOU’VE SPENT HERE?

My dad is from KC, and I’ve always had great affection for all things KC. As a little kid, I remember getting on my knees and praying the rosary so that George Brett would hit a home run to take the Royals to the playoffs in front of the TV in Venezuela. My brother knelt beside me. He had a glove; I had a bat. To this day I believe that my prayer helped George connect for a homer. Further, I went to school in Atchison, KS during my last year of high school, with eyes on attending Benedictine College across the border to pursue seminary. Oh, and my dad went to KU, so there you go, I am biased!

To watch the documentary and learn more, visit ShutOutTheStigma.com.

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