Lee's Summit, MO September 2023

The Fashion and Style Issue

Mary made our first time home buying process so seamless and effortless! She is a wealth of knowledge, was always 3 steps ahead, and was SO easy and comfortable to work with. We loved our experience with her and trusted her judgement throughout the entire process completely. 10/10 recommend for all home buyers!

BEGINNINGS KC TEAM

Mary Drake | 816-679-6577

Andy Drake | 573-864-5434

www.beginningskcrealestate.com

RE/MAX Heritage

816-783-5805

203 NW Executive Way Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

Andy was amazing to work with. I would recommend him to anyone who asked. We only had the availability to look for houses on weekends and he was there every weekend showing us houses. His construction background was also a big help. He’s honestly in it to find his clients a great home. He’s very patient. And he will help you with anything you need. If I could give 10 stars, I would.

TWO TOP NOTCH TEAMS WITH EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE AND INSDUTRY KNOWLEDGE

Lauren and her team were awesome. Great communication every step of the way. And there was never an obstacle they couldn’t help you get through. Homebuying can be a frustrating experience. With Lauren at the helm, it was smooth sailing. Very good experience.

- Taylor

- Kim

The days drag, but the years fly

As a young parent, I heard the cliche ‘the days may drag, but the years fly’, and while I understood the philosophy, I had trouble wrapping my mind around the concept that someday my independent, sassy little humans would literally fly the coop, no longer peppering me with questions, begging for the latest technology and eating me out of house and home.

Those years did indeed fly, however, and these days I find myself watching my oldest daughter navigate her own ‘dragging days’ as our sweet little grandson approaches his first birthday. Before her eyes, he will transition from smash cake to school backpack; I can already see his little personality emerging (and if I’m honest, I do giggle a little on the inside when I see his stubborn streak frustrating his momma, just like hers used to frustrate me.)

Sometimes the memories we make are in the small stuff; we still laugh about how she twirled and twirled in a favorite dress her kindergarten year. Sometimes, though, the memories are in the major news headlines that occur. Just a few weeks after we sent her off to school in that twirly dress, our nation would be irrevocably rocked by the events of 9/11. Reading our article about Randy Drake in this issue transported me immediately back to the middle school classroom where I was teaching that morning.

Much has shifted in the 22 years since 9/11. I see kindness, compassion and more acceptance in our world, but I also see polarity and division. We’ve come so far in many regards, but goodness, do we still have miles to go. Technology has made things simultaneously easier and more difficult; we can communicate instantly via text but struggle to carry on an in-person conversation.

I can’t even begin to conceive the changes Clarke will experience in his lifetime, but I sure hope his parents - and the rest of us - will work to find joy in the simple stuff that composes everyday life. As we fall into autumn, let’s look for ways to make the days drag.

September 2023

PUBLISHER

Laura Paszkiewicz | laura@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Laura Maxwell | laura.maxwell@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Maxwell, Angela Broockerd, John Beaudoin, Mindy Hargesheimer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

LAURA MAXWELL, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR @LEESSUMMITCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

Completely Remodeled Reverse Story home that exudes Quality Throughout & offers a California Coastal Vibe backing to Green space and Trees in coveted Loch Lloyd Community! Note to Potential Buyers: Approx $600,000 VA Assumable Loan is Available at 5.125% interest. Be prepared to be impressedstarting with Great Curb Appeal with Stucco/Stone Ext and beautiful Landscaping, also offering Screened in Deck and Patio backing to Green space and abundance of Trees. Recent Adds include: Roof, Hvac, Water Heater, Water Purifier, Grinder Pump; Added New Large Amount of Additional Kitchen Cabinets and Refaced all Existing Cabinets, New Downdraft System for Cook top, New Dishwasher, New Interior Paint on entire Main Level, New Lower Level Kitchen with New Sink, Induction Cook top, Double Drawer Dishwashers, Garbage Disposal & Counter height Countertops; New Lower Level Bedroom

Flooring, New Water Heater with Water Filtration System, and New Grinder Pump. This 4 Bedroom,4.5 Bath home with 5288 Sq Ft offers plenty of Living Space including: 2 study’s or 1 study & 1 Exercise Rm-one on main level and one on lower level, Great Rm, Dining Room, Billiards Area, Media Area, 2nd Kitchen, & Hearth Rm. The Huge Kitchen offers an abundance of added Cabinetry, 5 Burner Gas Cook top with Downdraft, Double Ovens, Pantry, Plantation Shutters & Granite Countertops. This opens to a beautiful Great Rm with Wood Floors and F/p as well as a Screened in Deck nestled in the Trees. The Lower Level is an Entertainment Mecca offering a Billiards Area, Media Area, 2nd Kitchen, 2nd Laundry, Study, 2 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms. Just a short distance to nearby Golf Course and Loch Lloyd’s Country Club, this home is perfectly situated to enable you to fully experience the amenities Loch Lloyd has to offer.

816.213.3421 Office: 816-373-8400 renee@reneeamey.com www.LeesSummitLakeHomes.com 1201 Windsor Drive, Lee’s Summit MO Re/Max Elite

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

The New Longview Sea Stallions ended an amazing season grateful for their Lee’s Summit sponsors. With ice cream from Hawthorn Bank, bubbles from The Key Foundation, and donuts from Big Daddy’s, the home meets felt like festivals! 1: Meredith Day

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @LeesSummitCityLifestyle

2: Rhys Burke 3: Sea Stallions Team honoring their sponsors 4: Margaret Kauffman, Sadie Southard, Eleanor Klapmeyer 5: Swimmers are congratulated on the victory lap celebration. 6: Bodey Preston 7: Genevieve Abreu and team manager Marisa Abreu

Falling Into Fashion

WITH ELLE & EM BOUTIQUE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Elle & Em Boutique is the perfect stop to find something for a wide range of ages, with classic looks and the latest fashion trends. Rachel Roark, owner of Elle & Em in downtown Lee’s Summit, believes fashion should be personal, ageless and instill confidence, and that well-constructed, current yet classic styles help showcase today’s modern woman.

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Patterned satin wide leg pant black blouse with cape detail structured black thin strap satchel with turn round look

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Fringe detail tweed midi dress in black and white perfect for transitioning into fall

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Scuba modal sweatshirt dress in neutral knee high black boots

| IMAGE 4

Floral print satin split neck tiered mini dress with knee high boots

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Bright and bold swirl printed sweater with a mock neck and bubble sleeves. Dressed down with everyday casual denim and classic black booties

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Mid-rise scuba modal pants with side stripe and pockets. Scuba modal cropped hoodie with detailed back. Sleek aesthetic sling bag with striped adjustable strap

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Classic white button down and everyday denim jean. Refined long line herringbone print vest. Pop of color pump

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Elevated Basic, mock neck tank top made in a knit fabric. Statement Kimono with bleach tie dye effect. Fall Classic Dark Denim jean

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Grade & Gather square neck tiered midi dress in plum. Grey wood and brass dangle earrings.

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Grade & Gather satin shirt dress; midi length with engaging print, complete with sleek, classic black bootie.

“Dr. Matlock and all of his staff are the very best! You are treated very special from the moment you enter till the moment you leave. Wouldn't even think about going any where else

— Chuck F.

PLAN makes quality dental care affordable for you

PLAN makes quality dental care affordable for you

This savings plan allows patients and their families to better maintain their lasting oral health and wellness by providing valuable savings on annual exams, cleanings and x-rays, not to mention additional discounts on other dental procedures. With just one low annual payment, patients are covered for the whole year! Enjoy peace of mind and a beautiful smile at a price you can afford!

This savings plan allows patients and their families to better maintain their lasting oral health and wellness by providing valuable savings on annual exams, cleanings and x-rays, not to mention additional discounts on other dental procedures. With just one low annual payment, patients are covered for the whole year! Enjoy peace of mind and a beautiful smile at a price you can afford!

• No more hassles with claims

• No more hassles with claims

• No more limitations

• No more limitations

• No more exclusions

• No more exclusions

• No more deductibles

• No more deductibles

• No pre-authorization requirements

• No pre-authorization requirements

• No yearly maximums

• No yearly maximums

Come Full Circle

ARTICLE BY JOHN BEAUDOIN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Lifelong Lee’s Summit resident Judy Mathews receives constant reminders of her brother, Randy Drake. Recently, it was from a bottle of whiskey signed by country superstar Alan Jackson.

Drake, like 2,976 of his fellow Americans, fell victim to the attacks at the World Trade Center, Pentagon and in Pennsylvania on Sept. 11, 2001.

Drake, of Lee’s Summit, was not in the North or South towers during the attack, but rather working on a project nearby at 195 Broadway as part of his network integration job with Siemens. When Flight 11 struck the North Tower, Drake and others evacuated. In a catastrophic and fatal turn of events, Drake was struck by falling debris as he fled after Flight 175 crashed into the South Tower. Drake lived for 11 days, dying on Sept. 22, 2001.

After his death, his family took solace in country star Alan Jackson’s song “Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning?”

“We heard it, and all of us were choked up about the song,” Judy said, noting her brother Greg wrote Alan Jackson a letter and told him what their family had experienced and what his song meant to them collectively. Not long after, Jackson wrote her parents back and sent them the original sheet music from the song. It read, in part:

“You know, I didn’t write that song. It was sent to me. It was a gift from God.”

“This was one in a path of many miracles along the way,” Judy said. “Constant reminders of him. We were

the lucky family, because we got Randy back. We got to see him and touch him and say goodbye to him.”

This past spring, Judy received a call from Macadoodles in Lee’s Summit that she had won a drawing for an Alan Jackson-signed bottle of his Silverbelly-brand whiskey. She was at the lake at the time, telling her parents she had signed up for the drawing when the text came in telling her she’d won. It was another sign. She shared the story with the owners of Macadoodles.

“More than often, a well deserving person is the raffle winner,” Macadoodles owner Jakob Nilsson said. “This is a prime example. People connected beyond explainable reason and odds. I love that the bottle landed with Judy and her family.”

Judy’s mom handed over the sheet music from Jackson’s song and asked her to take it back to Lee’s Summit with her. She will keep it with her signed bottle of Silverbelly. And for her brother, Randy, she bought another bottle.

“I am waiting until September 11 to open the second one, and I will toast my brother,” Judy said. “Everyone was experiencing that tragedy back then. Our nation. Other families. Young and old. We weren’t alone in our suffering, that’s for sure. This is just another little sign that he’s still out there, watching over us. It’s just that feeling. Someone has a hand in that and I can’t help but think that’s my brother Randy out there reminding us that he’s still out there.”

home home SWEET

When embarking upon the adventure of building their dream home, most couples identify a general area, visit various neighborhoods and begin exploring home plans and builders. Lake Winnebago residents Chip and Patty Corcoran, however, enjoyed the unique opportunity of helping create the vision for the expansion of the lake itself, and that experience inspired their decision to make the lake community their personal home.

“Chip’s company, Renaissance Infrastructure Consulting, designed the expansion of Lake Winnebago so we were involved in the project from the beginning. This gave us a chance to plan and design our house for almost six years,” said Patty.

Longtime Kansas residents having lived in Olathe, Overland Park and Lenexa, the Corcorans designed and built their Winnebago home with family fun in mind as they transition into retirement. With seven grown children, five grandchildren and another due in December, the home needed to be able to accommodate large family gatherings and a wide variety of activities. “It’s hard to pick a favorite part of our home, but we really enjoy the screened-in porch.  It has beautiful lake views, often a nice breeze, and is a fun spot to watch sports on TV in the spring, summer and fall.”

The couple enjoys traveling and gathered design and decor ideas for their new home on trips as they envisioned the space that would serve their expanding family.  “Patty spent many weekends saving inspiration photos from the Houzz and Pinterest websites, and we had expert guidance from our architect (Weston Coble), our builder, Brett Standard of Standard Construction, and Pat Conner of Madden McFarland Interiors,” said Chip. Although they are still experiencing their first set of seasons in the new house, the Corcorans have thoroughly enjoyed the amenities of lake life on the Missouri side and say exploring Lee’s Summit, especially the downtown area, is a favorite activity. “We love the beautiful lake and the fact that we can ski and other water sports.  We love the close-knit and friendly community, and the beautiful sunrises and sunsets! There are also so many fun restaurants to explore and stores to shop in historic downtown Lee’s Summit.”

The Corcorans have also plunged right in with getting involved in the Lee’s Summit community. Recently retired as the Chief Human Resources Officer at Black & Veatch, Patty loves people and was excited to share their new home with the Winnebago community as part of the 2022 holiday homes tour. A visitor on the tour said of the Corcoran home “It was absolutely stunning. There wasn’t a detail overlooked, and Patty did a phenomenal job of decorating for the holidays.”

When asked whether she would encourage others to take the leap to lake living, Patty says, “Don’t wait - just do it!  We love it here and would recommend lake living to anyone.  Our advice would be to make sure you have plenty of room for visitors to park - your home will be a treasured place for family and friends to make great memories.”

For more information about Lake Winnebago, visit http://www.lakewinnebago.org/.

This Year's

Fall Trends

AT ANCHORA BELLA

This fall's trends include Modern 80’s apparel: geometric patterns, blazers with shoulder pads, flared pants, and oversized pieces. We will see hints of luxe minimalist which will boast shimmery metallics and satins or ribbed/textured materials. Elevated athleisure wear including joggers, bodysuits and matching sets will be popular items, too. Leather options include

head-to-toe ensembles such as pants/shorts and full tops, in addition to staple leather jackets. Additionally, there are some key trends and styles hanging around from previous years that are must-have fall items and staples for your seasonal closet: plaids, chunky knit sweaters, layering cardigans and jackets, booties, gold layering jewelry, shackets, and cozy, oversized tops.

FORWARD | BEAUTY

EH Baguette Shoulder Bag

Alex Sneaker

Alice Mules

Choose Chic Cable Dress

Bedale Loafer

Where I Am Houndstooth Vest

Milan Stripe Sweater

Fern Cardigan

Chunky Cardigan

New World Joggers

Denim Daisy Dress

Serenity Lux Sheen Top

Rita Boot

Block Corduroy Shacket

Sherpa Sling Bag Part Bootie

Hawk Boulevard Plaid Top

Far Out 90’s Distressed Denim

Groovy Bell Bottoms

Tia Faux Leather Short-

Quincy Sweater Top

Anna Plaid Blazer

Seemingly

Satin Midi Dress

Sirena Rib LS Tee

Alright Top

Doing

Cozy Days Cardigan

33 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/LEESSUMMIT SEPTEMBER 2023

WEEKENDER: SOMERSET SCHOOLHOUSE

Somerset was a place where the previous generations were a small and tight-knit community. in a thriving district that hosted a blacksmith shop, railroad depot, two markets, and the post office. And the common thread amongst the family memories is how the schoolhouse was THE foundation for the community’s bond before eventually closing its doors for good.

EXPERIENCE A NEW KIND OF COMMUNITY GATHERING IN ‘THE FACULTY LOUNGE’

ARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

While the students are away, the teachers will play: The Faculty Lounge is now in session at Somerset Schoolhouse!

Gather your friends and family and add to your weekend itinerary this renovated 1920s schoolhouse that will captivate your love for shopping local artisan goods, craft cocktails-specifically whiskey, and a variety of live musicians performing you’ll find at least twice a month.

What’s genuinely charming about this destination is the heartfelt, family stories that precede it and are a major inspiration in owner Lesli Baker’s decision to turn this historical establishment into a modern-day gathering spot.

I had the opportunity to hear Lesli’s firsthand story about growing up a stone’s throw away from where the schoolhouse stands as well as the tales she heard for years from her father, uncles, and grandmother all born and raised in this once bustling Kansas town, and its those tales that ultimately became the predominant influence in her next business venture.

Flash-forward to a time we all know too well, of being isolated from everyone near and far in the thick of a pandemic, but also the pivotal moment when Lesli realized what she was missing: that joy of a tried and true community! Lesli tapped into her entrepreneurial spirit to convert what had turned into a residence for the last several decades and to bring back the schoolhouse charm. She had an overpowering vision to recreate a place where people would put their phones down, could look each other in the eye, and have a conversation.

So the process began in early 2021, from purchasing the property to rolling up her sleeves and doing what she does best; getting dirty and tearing things up in her DIY fashion, and while she said it certainly wasn’t pretty, Lesli KNEW what awaited her underneath it all, telling her husband, “Trust me, this is going to be something great.”

Lesli likes to shop and LOVES everything about the 1920s era, and her husband likes a good game and a glass of whiskey. She wanted to combine their passions and create a place where people will come and not want to leave; there’s something for everyone, from shopping the boutique to indulging in a flight of whiskey, catching a game AND playing a game, tossing horseshoes and bags, and enjoying the beautiful nature of Somerset from the cozy patio that hosts ongoing live music.

“Trust me, this is going to be something great.”

Lesli was also very intentional about wanting to stay with anything school-related; so, one will find that the speakeasy is cleverly named the Faculty Lounge, the cocktails are dubbed “Teachers Pet,” “Detention,” and “Vice Principal” amongst others, and the soon-to-open back patio bar will be called “The Bus Stop.”

She loves supporting local artisans, so you’ll find the Vice Principal signature cocktail includes Louisburg Cider and the Spelling Bee (i.e. Lemon Drop) features neighboring Somerset Ridge Winery’s Citron.

Many of the boutique items are from local makers all around the region as well, like Be Made Mercantile matches made in Hays Kansas and Magnolia Scents by Design candles made in Independence, KS. Their story is often featured next to the products so the consumers know they are buying local. Many of her favorite finds come from local farmers’ markets, such as Kansas City Caramels that her daughter discovered, and she ultimately carries things that other people love, including friends, family, and customers.

Another noteworthy event Lesli and her team put on is every second weekend in September, previous students/graduates who attended the school are invited back for a reunion to reminisce and celebrate the good times; both then and now.

And of course, it wouldn’t be a Somerset Schoolhouse event without locally made drinks and eats, including Fannie Franks Coffee Cakes and serving their exclusive coffee blend created by local roaster Brews and Brews Company.

Now, if you’re out there thinking to yourself, “but whiskey’s just NOT my thing.” Hear ye: The female population jumping aboard the whiskey bandwagon is flourishing right now; take it from Lesli who once shied away from ordering whiskey, but after “business research” with local whiskey ambassadors who taught her how to find what she prefers (ps these ambassadors actually have a masters degree in whiskey; who knew that was a thing!), she now knows how to drink and can speak to women just like yourself who are willing to take the leap. The Brown Derby is a highly-popular cocktail in the lounge

It should also be noted that Somerset Schoolhouse only serves middle of the road to high-end whiskey with roughly 40 spirits offered, and counting. I.e., if you come in asking for Jack Daniels, you will receive Gentleman’s Jack.

If you really want to get adventurous, try a whiskey flight of (3) that run for $25 and is discounted on Thursday at just $15. Or, ask about group events where classes are taught.

Eventually, there will be a whiskey club membership featuring a high-end whiskey to dabble in. And speaking of additions, the quintessential exterior speakeasy door with the red light, green light + must have the password system for entry. The novelty is thriving at this South KC spot!

“It’s where the teachers can get into trouble without the risk of running into students!“

Somerset Schoolhouse is a place you will feel like you are experiencing something from the past and will get the feeling of community when there. The speakeasy is quaint, perfect for making new friends and discovering your mutual love for all things Kansas City. And, it’s where the teachers can get into trouble without the risk of running into any students!

Speaking of which, teachers are naturally favored in the Faculty Lounge so show your badge and you will receive an exclusive discount (applies to military personnel as well). And there will soon be a secret menu available only to teachers with select cocktail and food offerings.

Somerset Schoolhouse

28740 Somerset Rd, Paola, KS 66071

Thursday-Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM & Sundays 12 PM - 6 PM

@somersetschoolhouse on Instagram

THE little BLACK DRESS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES STYLIST: AMANI SKALACKI

Most of us can say we have that one staple black dress that can be worn at any occasion, and the classic look is not only popular but is elegant and timeless. It is the dress in our closet that can be accessorized to fit the event and often is the dress we go back to time and again. It is one of the most versatile items we own, never goes out of style and looks good on anyone. But how did this classic look originate?

Prior to the 1920’s, black was reserved for funeral wear, but when Coco Channel made the bold move to print a short, black dress on the cover of Vogue in 1926, all of that changed. The popularity of the black dress skyrocketed, and it became one of the most influential pieces of clothing. Chanel transported fashion from tight corsets and bustles to straightlined silhouettes. Because of its affordability, black remained a popular choice during The Great Depression. The black dress had another boom in popularity when “Breakfast at Tiffany’s’’ debuted, and Audrey Hepburn showcased her iconic black dress with long, black gloves. Today, people accessorize the black dress to fit any occasion.

We enlisted the help of stylist, Amani Skalacki, to show us how versatile the little black dress can be.

THE POPULARITY OF THE BLACK DRESS SKYROCKETED and IT BECAME ONE

OF THE MOST influential PIECES OF CLOTHING.

COCO CHANNEL MADE THE BOLD MOVE TO PRINT A SHORT, BLACK DRESS ON THE COVER OF VOGUE IN 1926

“We usually think of the little black dress as a piece you wear to an event. However, because black is so flattering on all body types and skin tones, women have multiple black dresses from casual to evening,” Amani says. “I selected this collection of dresses to show the versatility of the black dress and to give women some new ideas of how to wear the evening gown with a train on a night out with her girlfriends or the traditional summer strappy maxi dress while running errands in cooler temperatures.”

Although black is a timeless, classic look, that doesn’t mean it goes without personality. You can make it your own style by accessorizing to infuse new life into a dress that you already own.

“A sequin dress can be dressed up with heels, or that same dress can be transformed into a casual outfit with the addition of tennis shoes and an oversized blazer or a denim jacket. Transform that strappy dress you have been wearing all summer into an outfit that is perfect for chilly fall temperatures. Add a narrow scarf, a leather jacket and sandals or a tall pointy boot, and you have a whole new look for an evening out,” Amani adds.

If you have a dress in the back of your closet that you haven’t worn in years, don’t be afraid to dust it off and give it new life. “Take that evening gown you wore years ago to a tailor for a little transformation. Turn it into a high low dress-top that can be worn out with girlfriends or on a date night. Pair the top with leather leggings, ankle boots, a chunky belt and some statement jewelry, and now you have a piece that pushes the boundaries of the little black dress.”

ALTHOUGH BLACK IS A timeless, classic LOOK, THAT DOESN’T MEAN IT GOES WITHOUT personality . YOU CAN MAKE IT YOUR OWN STYLE BY accessorizing TO INFUSE NEW LIFE INTO A DRESS THAT YOU ALREADY OWN.

Are you looking for the best cut or style of dress that works best for your body type? Amani provided this simple guide:

HOURGLASS FIGURE:

• V-necklines

• Cinched-in waistlines

• Tailored/fitted dresses

PEAR OR TRIANGLE FIGURE:

• Tailored dresses

• Off the shoulder

ATHLETIC FIGURE:

• Embellished

• Ruffles

• Empire waist

• Volume is your friend

APPLE FIGURE:

• Drop waist

• A-line

The dress that all body types can’t go wrong with is a wrap dress of any length.

realty report

A sample of recently sold properties in Lee’s Summit.

This data is a sampling of sold properties from July 2023. Source: IRES MLS system.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 oz- Cucumber & dragon fruit gin

• 3/4oz- Toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum

• 1/2oz- Lime juice

• Topped with ginger beer

• Hawaiian black lava salt & black sesame

GARNISH

• Small paint brush

• Simple syrup

• Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with a pinch of black sesame

The Magic Dragon

Make a Statement With This Stylish Cocktail

INSTRUCTIONS

Infused Gin: Infuse 1 whole peeled and cut cucumber in gin for a week. Strain the cucumbers out. Add 1 tablespoon of organic dragonfruit powder and mix very well with a whisk. To make the syrup, toast 1/2 cup of black sesame at 350 for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool. In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted black sesame, but not too fine. Add the sesame into one bottle of John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum. Let that set for about 2 to 3 days and use cheese cloth to strain out the fine bits of sesame. Juice one fresh lime and strain to remove the pulp.

Cocktail: Paint a strip of simple syrup down a Collins glass. Take a spoon full of Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with black sesame and layer that down where the painted simple syrup was placed. In a shaker tin combine: 1 1/2oz cucumber dragon fruit gin, 3/4oz toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum, and 1/2oz lime juice and shake that up!  Fill the painted glass with ice (I use crushed ice) and strain over the ice. Top with your favorite ginger beer (my choice is fever tree ginger beer).

ARTICLE BY MATSUMOTO MARI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

A Guide to Dental Health for Babies and Children: From Birth to Age 5

Dental care and oral health are crucial for your child’s overall well-being right from the start. By practicing healthy habits and taking preventive measures, you can effectively prevent or reduce tooth decay (cavities) in your little one.

STAGE 1: BIRTH TO 6 MONTHS OF AGE

During this early stage, caring for your baby’s gums is essential. Here are some critical practices:

Clean Your Infant’s Gums After Each

Feeding

• Wrap a moistened washcloth around the index finger of your free hand.

• Gently massage the gum tissues.

Preventing Tooth Decay

• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle or allowing them to feed “at will.”

• Use a clean teething ring or cold wet washcloth to soothe teething symptoms.

STAGE 2: 6-12 MONTHS OF AGE

Maintaining proper dental care becomes even more crucial as your baby grows and gets their first tooth. Follow these guidelines:

Introduce Toothbrushing

• Continue cleaning your infant’s gums after feeding.

• Start using a soft-bristled toothbrush once the first tooth emerges. Avoid using toothpaste at this stage.

Weaning from the Bottle

• Introduce a cup of water or juice as you gradually wean your baby from the bottle.

• Limit the amount of sweetened beverages and foods you give your child.

STAGE 3: 12-18 MONTHS OF AGE

By this stage, your child should have had their first dental examination. Maintain their oral health with the following practices:

Brushing and Monitoring

• Brush your child’s teeth twice a day using plain water.

• Regularly check for any suspicious spots on their teeth and consult a dentist if needed.

STAGE 4: 18 MONTHS TO AGE 5

During this crucial period, your child’s primary teeth will fully emerge. Follow these recommendations for optimal dental health:

Fluoridated Toothpaste and Independent Brushing

• Begin brushing your child’s teeth with a small smear of fluoridated toothpaste around age 2. Teach them to spit out the toothpaste and ensure they do not swallow it.

• Encourage your child to start learning how to brush their teeth. Assist until they have the coordination to clean their teeth effectively, usually around the age of 6 or 7.

Regular Dental Checkups

• Continue monitoring for signs of dental decay, such as white or brown spots, and seek dental care if necessary.

• Regularly bring your child to the dentist for checkups to maintain their oral health.

Please join us in welcoming Elizabeth Vasquez MPAS, PA-C to our team!

At Community Choice Pediatrics, we know how important quality of care is to our patients. And that’s driven by the people providing the care.

Learn more about Elizabeth on our website at communitychoicepeds.com/our-providers/ along with all of our dedicated practitioners.

PROMOTING CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH WITH A WELL-BALANCED DIET

A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for a child’s overall health, including their teeth. Here are some key points to remember:

• Introduce a variety of foods from the major food groups: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat, fish, and eggs. These provide essential vitamins, especially calcium.

• Encourage healthy snacks like raw vegetables, fresh fruits, cheese, popcorn, and sugar-free beverages.

• Avoid sticky, long-lasting carbohydrates such as lollipops and sodas.

By following these guidelines and maintaining good dental habits from infancy, you can ensure your child develops strong and healthy teeth. Dental health is an ongoing process requiring regular care and professional attention. By promoting good oral hygiene practices and seeking early dental care, you are setting your child on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

COMMUNITY CHOICE PEDIATRICS CARES ABOUT YOUR CHILDS SMILE

Preparing your child for proper oral hygiene and dental habits requires time, patience, and support. By focusing on the skills needed to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy, we can help them develop lifelong habits that will keep them smiling for years to come.

Community Choice Pediatrics is here to answer your questions about dental health for babies and children. Contact us to schedule your appointment.