The GLC continues to advance its role in the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, and its industry segment, with an ideal balance of sportiness and elegance. Its body is wind-carved yet muscle-toned, with a long hood, confident stance, and a high degree of aerodynamic refinement. The Star-centered grille is delicately outlined in chrome, while the LED lighting, side windows and flared fenders all flow into a shape that’s sensual yet spacious. Browse available inventory and take a testdrive at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City South.
Letter from the Publisher
Investment involves making daily decisions about where to put our resources. You might be considering investing in your health – for longevity. You could invest in a hobby because it makes you happy. You may want to invest in your wealth – for your retirement or your heirs. Or you might want to invest in big, beautiful windows (like the ones on page 48) for more light. As I thought about this welcome letter and the theme, I couldn’t stop thinking about a very big investment decision in my life – and the result.
Five years ago, I was ready for a career change. A recruiter found me on LinkedIn. I was living in Summerlin, a beautiful community in Las Vegas. Like Leawood, it is one of the most desirable areas in the metro market to live, work, and play. The area was perfect for a new City Lifestyle franchisee. While it was an interesting conversation, I continued to search for my next employer.
The recruiter sent me examples of City Lifestyle magazines. One example was the 10th anniversary issue from Leawood. I read it multiple times. I remember thinking, “This magazine celebrates the community in such a beautiful way. We did not have anything like this serving Summerlin.”
Throughout my television career, there was an expression "print is dead.” The newspaper had indeed suffered readership with the popularity of the internet and social media. Publishers were cutting costs by putting their content on-line. For me, as digital screen-time increased, magazines were more enjoyable. But what about the pandemic? News outlets reported on the economic impact of local business restrictions. It was heartbreaking. I wanted to help. I found myself talking to prospective ad partners before making the investment. I explained we direct mail 100% of the circulation and that 75% of the people who receive the magazine read it. While they loved the target market, which seemed very recession proof, they really loved the uplifting and community focused content. I moved forward with the franchise, not for me, but for the community.
Since taking the helm as your publisher of Leawood City Lifestyle, I have become very invested in this community and the success of our incredible business partners. Whatever investment you might be considering, rest assured if they are an ad partner they are incredibly focused on happy customers in this great community.
1—3: The publishers of Leawood and Mission Hills City Lifestyle were delighted to host our business partners at Prairiebrooke Arts for an evening focused on networking and connection. A panel of entrepreneurs discussed their experiences, shared insights, and talked about the challenges of owning a business. The panel included Megan Hoban, owner of Prairiebrooke Arts; Dr. Kathy Gaumer, owner and Medical Director of Regain Functional Medicine + Aesthetics; and Staci Cross, owner and founder of Enjoy Pure Food. The discussion was moderated by Hailee Bland Walsh, owner of City Gym and co-founder of Fit Truk. Guests also enjoyed delicious appetizers from Bamboo Penny and bubbly from Blanc on Main.
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF
Leawood Family Opens a New Bath Tune- Up
Courtney and Chris Craig, local Leawood residents, are bringing an elevated bathroom remodeling experience to Kansas City. Bath Tune-Up is focused on helping our neighbors create a bathroom space that is both functional and stylish. From curated designs to full custom remodels, Bath Tune-Up can provide a stress-free experience when remodeling your space. Free Consultations Available.
Aqua Penny’s debuts new spring menu
Thai Chef Penny Mufuka continues her culinary success with the allnew spring menu at Aqua Penny’s in Park Place. From her redefined Thai cuisine at Bamboo Penny’s to the neighborhood charm of Penny’s In the Village, Chef Penny now brings fresh twists to her upscale seafood gem. The new expanded menu features small plates, shareables and the only true raw bar in the area with fresh fish flown in daily. Available for lunch and dinner.
Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City Now Open
A grand opening celebration will take place on Thursday, April 24th, for the new Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City location. The new facility is now open for sales, service, and parts and is located just southwest of the Aristocrat campus on the corner of 67th and Carter.
Photography by Janie Jones
Blanc Champagne Bar Opening Roof Top Patio
Blanc Champagne Bar, Kansas City’s premier champagne-dedicated destination located in the heart of Midtown, is excited to announce the opening of our rooftop patio this spring! Soak in the panoramic skyline at the Sun Club, Blanc’s rooftop gem, while enjoying our extensive sparkling wine list and small bites. The sunsets are stunning and vibes are one-of-a-kind. Blanc’s rooftop is the perfect backdrop for any celebration!
Photography by Janie Jones
Playoff Bound: The Action Continues!
The Kansas City Mavericks are headed to the 2025 Kelly Cup Playoffs this April! Don’t miss your chance to witness the excitement of playoff hockey right here in KC. Every game matters, and we need YOU to bring the energy! Grab your tickets now and let’s make this a playoff run to remember! Visit kcmavericks.com/tickets to stay up to date on the action.
Overland Park Farmer’s Market changes its location for 2025
With the activation of the Clock Tower Landing project in the downtown area, the beloved Overland Park Farmers’ Market will be temporarily held at the nearby Matt Ross Community Center, just two blocks away on Marty Street, every Saturday and Wednesday morning in 2025. The renovation project will include new, indoor spaces for the farmer’s market, plus shade structures and seating for its visitors. Learn more about the project and updates online: opkansas.org/ recreation-fun/farmers-market/
Photography by Victoria Moore
CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO
Prevail Innovative Wealth Strategies
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Prevail is bridging the gap between financial planning and everyday workers, ensuring more people have the opportunity to build lasting wealth.
For too long, traditional wealth management firms have followed the same outdated playbook, offering cookie-cutter investment strategies that focus more on managing wealth than creating it. At Prevail Innovative Wealth Strategies, the mission is different—founded in 2017, Prevail was built on the belief that the conventional financial system is broken and that clients deserve more than just stock market-dependent portfolios.
Over the past year, Prevail has continued to challenge the status quo, embracing innovation, expanding its team, and delivering investment opportunities that go beyond what most financial advisors offer. As they look ahead, their focus remains on empowering clients, providing smarter investment strategies, and keeping financial control with the individual.
Growth has been the theme, and 2024 was their biggest year yet. The firm welcomed 13 new advisors and team members, bringing fresh perspectives and diverse knowledge to better serve clients. With a focus on making wealth creation accessible to more people, Prevail has continued expanding its reach, offering financial strategies that safeguard and actively build assets.
One of the most exciting milestones of the past year was the success of Prevail’s real estate investment division, which surpassed $400 million in private real estate investments. Unlike traditional stock market investments, these opportunities allow clients to diversify their portfolios with non-market-correlated assets, reducing their exposure to
market volatility and providing stability even during economic uncertainty.
Another area of major success has been corporate retirement benefits. In 2024, Prevail began managing the retirement plans of some of Kansas City’s longest-standing businesses, bringing wealth management directly to employees who may have never had access to an advisor. By doing so, Prevail is bridging the gap between financial planning and everyday workers, ensuring more people have the opportunity to build lasting wealth.
At its core, Prevail believes the traditional financial system needs a shake-up. Most wealth managers rely heavily on market-driven investments, but that approach often leaves clients vulnerable to economic downturns. Prevail takes a different path, incorporating strategies that go beyond the public markets.
By integrating private real estate, alternative investments, and tax-efficient wealth-building strategies, Prevail helps clients create passive income, reduce risk, and build financial independence. This philosophy challenges the notion that wealth creation is only for the ultra-wealthy. Instead, Prevail makes sophisticated investment strategies available to those who want to take control of their financial future.
One of the most ambitious projects in Prevail’s history is set to launch this year in 2025. In keeping with Prevail’s philosophy of creating a diversified investment approach, non-correlated assets and the ability for clients to create wealth in sectors outside of the public markets will be in focus.
Prevail believes that wealth should be used as a force for good, and their commitment to giving back is reflected in their ongoing philanthropic efforts. In 2024, Prevail’s charitable event with Team Up for Down Syndrome raised $150,000, bringing their total contributions to over $600,000. These funds directly support programs that provide housing, education, and job training for individuals with Down syndrome and other unique abilities.
Most firms offer a one-size-fits-all approach, providing clients with a single advisor and a standard portfolio mix. Instead of a single advisor, clients work with a team, their financial board of directors, to bring together credentialed Advisors in investing, tax strategy, estate planning, and business consulting.
Clients receive a fully customized plan designed specifically for their goals, risk tolerance, and financial vision.
Education is also a key pillar of Prevail’s approach. Many people feel overwhelmed by financial decisions, unsure of the best ways to grow and protect their wealth. Prevail makes it a priority to ensure that clients understand their investment options, helping them make informed choices rather than relying on blind trust in the markets.
As Prevail moves into the new year, the firm is more committed than ever to helping clients take back control of their financial futures. Prevail is located at 4745 West 136th Street in Leawood. For more information, visit prevailiws.com
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
BY
JANIE JONES
FRENCH BY DESIGN
Bringing Timeless Antiques to Kansas City
PHOTOGRAPHY
In the heart of Kansas City’s antique scene, French by Design is a treasure trove of authentic French antiques, hand-selected and brought across seas by a team with a deep passion for history and design. The business, founded in 1999, has grown from a single booth in Mission Road Antique Mall to a well-established name in both Kansas City and Texas, with a loyal following of collectors, designers, and homeowners looking for unique, high-quality pieces.
The story of French by Design begins in 1998, when one of the owners was living in France, collecting antiques for personal enjoyment. A visit from her sister sparked an idea—why not share these treasures with others? Upon returning to the U.S., the sister took the leap, securing a booth in Mission Road Antique Mall in 1999. Since then, the business has evolved significantly, expanding to Texas in 2008 and participating in monthly shows in Kansas City’s West Bottoms from 2009 to 2018.
Unlike many antique dealers who rely on third-party suppliers, French by Design takes a hands-on approach, traveling to France three to four times a year to personally curate their collection. They work closely with trusted dealers they have built relationships with over the years, ensuring that every piece they acquire meets their high standards for authenticity and quality.
Between trips, they continue sourcing through their trusted network, guaranteeing a steady influx of rare and unique finds. Each container shipped back is filled with a diverse mix of items, from opulent gilded mirrors and mid-century modern furniture to rustic French provincial pieces and religious artifacts.
What truly sets French by Design apart is its comprehensive approach to antiques. “We don’t feature just one look or style,” they explain. “We sell very elegant French pieces with lots of gilt and mirror, but also great mid-century French and Italian design, French provincial and country items, religious artifacts, and more.”
Beyond furniture, their collection includes an array of carefully curated accessories such as kitchenware, books, mirrors, lighting, art, garden pieces, opaline glass, barware, and more. Their goal is to offer a complete package, allowing customers to not only find a beautiful cabinet but also everything to fill it with.
Every piece chosen by French by Design reflects the team’s taste and aesthetic. “We buy items that we would use in our own homes,” they share. “We love everything we sell, but we’d need several homes to keep it all!”
Their keen eye for design extends beyond individual pieces to entire vignettes. They create fully realized displays that help
customers visualize how the antiques can be incorporated into their homes. Whether it’s an entire dining set, a bookshelf styled to perfection, or a soldier-themed display, French by Design makes it easy for buyers to see their pieces in a lived-in setting.
Ensuring authenticity is a top priority for the team. “In France, it is illegal to misrepresent the age or authenticity of an item,” they note. Thanks to their long-standing relationships with reputable dealers and the expertise gained from years of living in France, they confidently stand behind the provenance of every item they sell.
While most pieces are sold in original condition, some require careful restoration. The team works with a trusted carpenter for refurbishments, occasionally stripping wood pieces to their raw form or refinishing them to enhance their beauty while preserving their history.
One of the most fascinating aspects of antique furniture is its timelessness. “We have never really struggled with integrating antiques into modern homes,” they explain. “So many of these items adapt beautifully to contemporary spaces.”
Among their most recent unique finds are a pair of black cabinets from the late 1600s or early 1700s, astonishingly modern in appearance despite their age. Other standout pieces include grand gilded frames likely from Italian churches or castles and a stunning 14-foot-wide tapestry that should belong in a museum.
Antique trends come and go, and French by Design has its finger on the pulse. Currently, tapestries are highly sought after, along with opaline glass, which has gained popularity in recent years after decades of being an underappreciated gem.
Other in-demand items include bar carts and nesting tables from the 1940s and 50s, vintage leather sofas and club chairs from the 1930s to the 1970s, and restored copper kitchenware sourced from French chateaus.
French by Design caters to a broad audience. Their clientele includes dedicated collectors, interior designers sourcing for high-end projects, and homeowners seeking to infuse character and charm into their spaces. Whether customers are hunting for a statement piece or simply looking for vintage kitchen accessories, French by Design offers something for everyone.
For those eager to explore French by Design’s latest finds, upcoming events provide the perfect opportunity. Their next major showcase will be at Blue Hills in Round Top, Texas, from March 22 to April 5. Afterward, any remaining inventory will be brought back to their Kansas City warehouse in the West Bottoms.
Their Texas operations have grown significantly over the years. They make several trips annually, bringing in fresh inventory and hosting shows in the fall, winter, and spring. While their Kansas City warehouse is not a traditional showroom, they accommodate regular customers by appointment and even offer virtual consultations for those unable to visit in person.
What began as a personal passion has transformed into a thriving business, one that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. With a keen eye for quality, a deep appreciation for history, and a commitment to offering customers a truly immersive experience, French by Design remains a standout destination for French antique lovers near and far. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, stepping into the world of French by Design is like stepping into a story—one that has been carefully preserved and lovingly curated just for you. Find them on Instagram: @fbdantiques
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
INQUIRING Chef
Start with a vegtable
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef.com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.
Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook, Start with a Vegetable, published this year reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.
“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”
The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.
As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.
“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”
Unlike most cookbooks, Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.
“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”
Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.
“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each
“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. ”
chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”
After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under real-world conditions.
“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with real-life interruptions.”
To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.
“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”
Building on her passion for teaching home cooks, Smith extended her expertise beyond the blog and cookbook by launching Inquiring Chef Academy. In 2024, she introduced this in-person cooking school for Kansas City children ages 5 to 13. The week-long summer camp is returning this year in Brookside in June, July, and August.
“We still have a few spaces left—details can be found on the ‘Camp’ tab of my website.”
To order a copy of the cookbook or register for cooking school, visit inquiringchef.com.
CITRUS, CARROT, AND CHICKPEA COUSCOUS
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
JANIE JONES
By Inquiring Chef
Sweet carrots and tart cranberries complement each other in every bite of this tangy couscous. It makes a light meal on its own but becomes a showstopper when spread on a platter and topped with braised meat, roasted cauliflower steaks, or seared tofu. If you want to add a little creaminess, serve the couscous with a spoonful of plain yogurt.
ingredients:
• 1 pound carrots
• one 15½-ounce can chickpeas
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for boiling
• ½ cup orange juice
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup dry regular or whole wheat couscous
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds
• 1 lemon
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• chopped fresh parsley for garnish
directions:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F
Step 2. Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into 1-inch ovals. Drain and rinse the chickpeas
Step 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, cumin, ginger, dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of the salt, coating evenly.
Step 4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned veggies and chickpeas on it in an even layer.
Step 5. Bake until the carrots become tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking.
Step 6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the orange juice, water, and ½ teaspoon of salt. When the mixture begins to boil, remove it from the heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.
Step 7. When the carrots become tender, sprinkle the almonds on them and continue baking until the almonds lightly toast, 4 to 5 more minutes.
Step 8. Juice the lemon for 1 tablespoon fresh juice.
Step 9. In the same mixing bowl used to season the veggies, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the cranberries.
Step 10. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the carrots, chickpeas, and almonds. Stir well to combine.
Step 11. Serve warm or refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve chilled. Just before serving, stir in the parsley.
Enjoy!
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Changing
Lives Through Mentorship
For many children, having a mentor isn’t just about having someone to look up to, it’s about having someone who shows up, listens, and believes in them. That’s exactly what Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) provides, and for one Kansas City couple, being "Bigs" has been one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives.
Jeff and Micah, a local couple, have found deep fulfillment in their role as mentors. They were matched with their "Little," Nehemiah, through BBBS, and the bond they have built over time has been life-changing for all of them. And even earned them Big Couple and Little Brother of the Year in 2024! Jeff and Micah have provided Nehemiah with guidance, encouragement, and—most importantly—consistent support. It’s this kind of relationship that defines the mission of BBBS and highlights the true impact of mentorship.
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their full potential by matching them with caring adult mentors, known as "Bigs." The organization doesn’t just make a match and step away—it provides professional support, resources, and opportunities for both Bigs and Littles to help them grow together.
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL
“We offer more than just mentorship,” explains Kristi Hutchison, Chief Marketing Officer of BBBS. “In addition to a dedicated mentor, BBBS provides professional staff support and access to a variety of resources, including job and internship opportunities, scholarships, free match activities, ACT prep, personal and professional development workshops, and resources to support the entire family.”
The relationships built through BBBS go beyond casual friendships. Many Bigs and Littles become lifelong family, standing by each other through major milestones. “It’s common for us to hear stories about Bigs and Littles who have been part of each other’s wedding parties, or who have supported each other during life’s biggest challenges,” says Hutchison. “They truly change each other’s lives forever and are there for the good and bad times.”
BBBS is always looking for volunteers, especially Big Brothers and Big Couples, as the majority of kids waiting for a match are boys. “Adults 21 and older can volunteer as a Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big
Couple,” Hutchison explains. “Big Couples need to be in a long-term relationship for at least two years and can be matched with a Little Brother of any age. We ask for at least a one-year commitment, but many matches last much longer—sometimes even a lifetime.”
The most important qualification? Simply caring. “Anyone with life experience makes a great mentor. No special skills, education, or training is needed. If you have a few hours a month and a desire to help a kid see their full potential, then you are qualified,” Hutchison emphasizes.
Currently, 216 kids in the Kansas City metro area are waiting for a Big. Reducing that wait time starts with more people stepping up to become mentors. But if becoming a Big isn’t feasible, there are plenty of other ways to support BBBS:
Participate in Events – BBBS hosts fundraising events like Summer Bowl for Kids’ Sake, where teams of six raise funds and celebrate with a bowling party.
Donate Used Clothing – BBBS has over one hundred donation bins across the metro and partners with Savers stores to collect gently used items.
Give Financially – Donations help match more kids with Bigs. Onetime or monthly contributions can be made at bbbskc.org/give
For Bigs like Jeff and Micah, being a part of BBBS has been about more than just volunteering—it’s been about building a lifelong connection with their Little, Nehemiah. And for Nehemiah, having two mentors who truly care has made all the difference.
The impact of BBBS is undeniable, and the need for more mentors is greater than ever. Whether by becoming a Big, donating, or supporting the organization in other ways, everyone has the opportunity to change a child’s life for the better.
To learn more about how to get involved, visit bbbskc.org
CELEBRATING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR
THE HISTORY BEHIND LEAWOOD’S ANNUAL CELEBRATION
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
In 1985 Jimmy Lin, a first-generation Taiwanese resident, was the first Asian American elected to the Leawood City Council. After serving for many terms, Jimmy saw the benefit of creating a sister city relationship between Leawood and I-Lan, Taiwan, and in 1988 Mayor Marcia Rinehart formally established the relationship.
Later that year during Taiwan’s National Day celebrations, a delegation from Leawood traveled to I-Lan for the Sister City signing ceremony. Two plaques were presented to the City of Leawood to celebrate the official Friendship. These plaques hang in the City’s offices for the public to enjoy. In 1992 the City created the Leawood I-Lan Sister City Committee to expand awareness of the relationship, assist in delegation management, and sponsor the annual Leawood Lunar New Year event.
Since the first trip, over 15 delegations have been made between Leawood and I-Lan to nurture the Sister City relationship and celebrate key milestones: anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China (1993), dedication of I-Lan Park (2003), dedication of Leawood Bridge (2004), and several scholastic visits from I-Lan students to establish cultural exchange programs with the Blue Valley School District. The cultural exchange program occurred each year until 2020 when the global COVID 19 pandemic and shutdown canceled delegation visits for both cities.
The City of Leawood began celebrating Lunar New Year in 1992 with a dinner featuring Chinese cuisine and traditional entertainment. The first dinner was held at Golden Palace Restaurant in Watts Mills to usher in the Year of the Rooster. Other dinners were held at local venues like Fortune Star Restaurant in Rosanna Square, Blue Fin Restaurant in Parkway
“In 1992 the City created the Leawood I-Lan Sister City Committee to expand awareness of the relationship.”
Plaza, and Blue Koi in Mission Farms. The Leawood Lunar New Year event became so popular that in 2018 the event was moved to Vista 154 at Ironhorse Golf Club to accommodate a large attendance, and it has been celebrated at Vista 154 each year except in 2021 when the event was canceled due to COVID 19 restrictions.
The Year of The Snake was celebrated on January 31, at the Ironhorse Golf Club.
Alora Medical Spa and Wellness Center is overseen by Dr. Carrie Grounds.
Dr. Grounds is committed to providing exceptional patient care and has built a reputation for compassionate care. She develops a partnership with each patient to achieve their health and wellness goals.
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INVEST IN YOUR GREENS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
realty report
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
Open your eyes to brighter, better!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Windura Premium Windows & Doors makes it easy.
Windura was founded in 2001, and General Manager/Owner Daniel Lee purchased the business from the original owner in 2020, attracted by the company's strong reputation in the community for quality craftsmanship, integrity and exceptional customer service.
“Our people, process and product set us apart,” noted Product Manager, Bonnie Lee, who joined her husband, Daniel Lee, at Windura in 2021 after a corporate career in product management at Hallmark and Commerce Bank. “I lead our quoting, ordering, customer service and marketing efforts. We specialize solely on replacement window and door installations.”
Their top window manufacturer, Marvin, was founded in 1912. Marvin is a family-owned and led window and door manufacturer based in Minnesota. Marvin sets the standard for excellence in engineering and design that is as functional and intuitive as it is beautiful. They offer Marvin fiberglass, wood and aluminum products and are the go-to choice for customers looking for the highest levels of quality custom craftmanship.
“ProVia is our most popular manufacturer of fiberglass and steel doors, as well as vinyl windows and sliding patio doors. They are based in Ohio and were founded in 1977,” she continued. “Their extensive selection of high performing entry doors with nearly limitless customization options and lifetime warranties make them a leader in the industry and a longtrusted Windura partner.”
Windura also offers Good's Millwork products, a second-generation family-owned company that hand-makes each of their all-wood doors in Versailles, Missouri. Good's specializes in hardwood lumber products and traditional techniques that date back to Pennsylvania Dutch craftsmen. They're Windura's top choice for customers looking for the best all-wood doors in special sizes with endless customization options.
“Living comfortably in your home with properly operating windows and doors is always a top trend customers are looking to follow!”
“Whether you're looking for more comfortable indoor temperatures during those hot summer afternoons, needing to enhance your home's curb appeal before putting it on the market or dreaming about expanding your indoor-to-outdoor living space, now's the time to act,” Bonnie says. “As each window and door is custom made for your home, orders placed now will take several weeks to manufacture. Not surprisingly, spring and summer are our busiest times of year when folks are excited for home upgrade projects and our daylight working hours are at their peak!”
She explained that they employ their own full-time installers, never subcontractors, and maintain excellent communication with customers throughout their projects. They listen to the customer's problems, learn their goals and visit their home to gather info to make solution recommendations and provide a detailed quote.
“Living comfortably in your home with properly operating windows and doors is always a top trend customers are looking to follow! In the KC metro, we often help with historic preservation projects, mid-century modern design and ultra-contemporary looks with narrow frames to maximize visibility,” she shared, adding, “Don't be afraid to ask detailed questions about our installation process. Even the best window won't perform well if it's installed improperly. A premium product deserves premium installation.”
This 20 + year old Overland Park home features new Marvin Signature Ultimate and Elevate windows and doors. The customer's goal here was to protect their beautiful investment, while maintaining their home's classic elegance and enhance its grandeur with taller doors and traditional exterior grid patterns. They're so happy with their project!
