Lee’s Summit’s Premier Aesthetic Center
Where aging is OPTIONAL
Letter from the Publisher
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
Blessings to you and your family,
LAURA PASZKIEWICZ, PUBLISHER @LEESSUMMITCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Laura Paszkiewicz | laura@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephanie Williams | stephanie.williams@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lauren Powers, Allison Swan, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Tim Denker
Dennis Bacon CPA, CFP® Partner I Chief Investment Officer, BW
John Kliewer Partner, BWA I Sr. Financial Advisor
Julia Hampton CPA, PC
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
loaded hummus
This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
hummus ingredients:
• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
toppings:
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Chickpeas
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Fresh Parsley
directions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
Our newest laser therapy gets you back on your feet faster
Our office is the first and only provider in the region to have this new laser. Many different conditions benefit from laser therapy, including:
• Tendon/ligament pain (plantar fasciitis, bursitis, Achilles tendinitis)
• Stress fractures, sports injury or repetitive strain
• Nerve pain
If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain or inflammation, our new 50-watt Robotic M7 MLS Therapy Laser is a safe, FDA-approved tool that can help you recover faster from chronic conditions, sports injuries, wounds or nerve pain.
Dr. Joel Foster, DPM
• Board certified podiatric surgeon
• Proudly serving patients since 2006
PERFECT PAIRINGS
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
An exquisite wine and food combination can make for a memorable experience, dining in or out. Located on the North Shore of Lake Lotawana, the experts at Marina 27 Steak and Seafood shared a few of their favorite wine pairings with us.
Ribeye with California Cabernet Sauvignon: The rich, marbled texture of a ribeye pairs perfectly with a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins help cut through the fattiness, while the wine’s oaky notes complement the meat’s savory flavors.
Sea Bass with Buttery Chardonnay: The light, delicate flavor of sea bass is enhanced by the creamy, rich qualities of a buttery Chardonnay. The wine’s citrus and vanilla undertones bring out the freshness of the fish without overpowering it.
Ahi Tuna with Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc’s bright acidity and citrus-forward profile match the clean, lean flavors of ahi tuna, bringing out its freshness while adding a crisp finish.
Italian Pasta with Barolo or Nebbiolo: The structured tannins and earthy, cherry notes of Barolo or Nebbiolo complement rich pasta dishes like ragù or mushroom-based sauces.
Salmon with Pinot Noir: The versatility of Pinot Noir, with its red fruit and earthy undertones, makes it a perfect balance of flavors without overwhelming the fish.
Lobster with Chardonnay: Lobster’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with a lightly oaked Chardonnay. The buttery, smooth finish complements the succulent meat of the lobster.
For a sweet ending, Lance’s favorite is pairing a 20-year-old Port wine with sweet dessert. As Lance McFarland says, “Everything drinks well; it’s only important who you’re enjoying it with.”
The Best in Hormone Balance & Weight Loss Solutions
Powerful appetite suppressant
Safe and effective weekly injections
Promotes fast weight loss
Reduce stubborn fat
Physician Supervised
Regain Energy & Mental Clarity
Reduce Anxiety & Mood Swings
Boost your natural energy
Protection against Heart Disease, Stroke & Alzheimers
Thankful for the Journey
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Billy Brimblecom Jr. is the CEO of Steps of Faith Foundation. Having lost his left leg to cancer in 2005, he reflects on his journey with thankfulness, often saying he wouldn’t change a thing about his experience. His trials have paved the way for him to help others facing similar challenges. With that spirit of gratitude, he has turned personal adversity into a mission of hope and mobility for others, especially through his foundation and its star-studded annual event, Thundergong! that raises funds to provide prosthetic limbs for uninsured and underinsured amputees.
In his own struggle to obtain a prosthetic limb, he saw firsthand the immense financial challenges that amputees face. With prosthetics ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, many amputees find themselves unable to afford the devices necessary for even the most basic mobility. Recognizing this urgent need, he dedicated his life to ensuring that others would not have to endure the same struggle alone.
Steps of Faith has helped over 1,400 amputees, giving them the gift of mobility and the chance to reclaim their lives. In the past year alone, the foundation has nearly doubled the number of people it assists, a feat made possible by the support generated through their event.
Thundergong! is not your typical fundraiser. Co-hosted by his longtime friend, actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis, the event brings together music, laughter, and a powerful cause. The annual concert showcases a lineup of musicians and comedians, creating a one-of-a-kind night of entertainment. Past performers have included the Foo Fighters, Counting Crows, and Saturday Night Live’s Fred Armisen, with surprise guests that make every year unforgettable.
What began as an idea to merge Brimblecom’s passion for music with his mission to help amputees has blossomed into an event with national reach and profound impact. To date, Thundergong! has raised over $2.1 million, all of which goes directly toward providing prosthetics for those in need. With demand for these services continuing to grow, he knows that the show must go on.
“We’ve been helping almost double the amount of people we helped last year. It’s insane and has been difficult to keep up with the demand, so we’ve hired a fourth person to help us. The success of our Thundergong! events have made it possible to have the funding to help so many people each month, which is beautiful— that’s why we have to keep doing these shows so that we can keep the donations coming in to keep up with the demand.”
While Thundergong! and Steps of Faith have undoubtedly transformed the lives of many amputees, Brimblecom is also embarking on a new personal journey: public speaking. After years of being invited to share his story, he’s now pursuing this path with intention, eager to inspire and move audiences across the country.
“I do keynote public speaking a few times a year. Folks know about my story and/or Steps of Faith and they ask if I’d speak at their event. I’ve always responded to the requests and never really pursued doing more of it. I really enjoy speaking events. The joke is that every drummer really wants to be a front man, so I guess I’m no exception! So yes, I have stories to tell and a message to share for corporate audiences that I feel will move them. I’ve been lucky to have many adventures traveling the world as a musician, lucky to survive cancer and losing a leg, and lucky to be able to build this beautiful organization with Steps Of Faith. I’m looking forward to sharing these stories with more folks around the country.”
“I have a lot to be thankful for....my family, my friends, and music, for starters. But I’m thankful I beat cancer, thankful this amazing opportunity that is Steps of Faith, and so thankful for the many people that we get to help everyday.”
“Thundergong really is a dream come true- a night you get to do the things I’m best at…with my favorite people… and all of that is the biggest driver that makes Steps of Faith keep going.”
As we enter the season of giving, it’s worth noting that gratitude has been the guiding force in his life.
“I’m thankful first and foremost for my wife and kids. All I need is them and everything I do, it’s for them in one way or another. I also have great friends that I’m very thankful for, and music—always thankful for music and the joy and people it brings into my life.”
As Thundergong! returns on November 9th at the Uptown Theatre in Kansas City, Brimblecom invites everyone to take part in this life-changing cause. You can support Steps of Faith by donating directly through their website or by attending the event. Every dollar raised brings an amputee closer to the gift of mobility, transforming not just their life, but their entire world.
In the spirit of gratitude, now is the perfect time to make a difference.
“The cliches about fundraising are true—every dollar really does add up. We have people that give us a big donation every quarter and we have someone in Indonesia that donates just over one dollar each month. They all are seen, felt, and make a difference. What Steps of Faith does is an essential and time-sensitive work. As an amputee myself, I can assure you that anyone who donates is truly changing someone’s life by restoring their mobility and opening up a whole world of possibilities for them.”
To donate and learn more, visit stepsoffaithfoundation.org.
Photo by Austin Walsh
Photo by Jason Domingues
“I’m thankful first and foremost for my wife and kids. All I need is them and everything I do, it’s for them in one way or another. I also have great friends that I’m very thankful for, and music— always thankful for music and the joy and people it brings into my life.”
Beauty UNMATCHED
Thankful for the Grand Adventure
“Nothing develops intelligence like travel .” – Emile Zola If Switzerland is not on your bucket list, put it on there now! Switzerland is awash in beautiful mountains, hiking trails, the alps, villages and lakes. It truly captures the heart the second the plane lands. The train system is easy and affordable and a great way to see the countryside,
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
so be sure to plan some day trips using their easy transportation systems. Don't be afraid to visit with the locals to hear where they would go to base some of your day trips on their recommendations. They are generally spot on every time.
WHERE TO EXPLORE:
• Appenzell and Lake Constance is surrounded by Switzerland, Austria and Germany. An easy and short train ride to Appenzell and a quick gondola ride up the mountain boasts a beautiful view of the lake and surrounding areas.
• Ticino is where the locals suggest to visit and holiday. It is known for its waterfront promenade, bridges, castles, historical buildings and stunning landscape.
• Take in the sights of Zurich and its magnificent lakeside views. This spectacular city boasts amazing views, food and locals.
• Take a short three hour train ride to Paris to explore the gorgeous city and delectable French food.
WHERE TO EAT:
• To indulge in the traditional treat that Switzerland is known for, visit Sprungli which serves the best chocolate in Switzerland.
• To treat yourself to a Michelin restaurant, head to Zurich and eat at Kronenhalle.
• Aperol spritz and local craft beer is readily served at almost every cafe to enjoy. When in doubt, ask the locals, as they are happy to suggest their favorite eateries.
— Chuck F
•
Jewell Orthodontics is a patient-focused practice dedicated to providing top notch orthodontic care to the community of Lee’s Summit and surrounding areas. As a Lee’s Summit native, Dr. Jewell is excited to offer progressive orthodontic technology and an approach where beautiful smiles and healthy bites are created in a welcoming and convenient atmosphere. If you are looking for the most modern and personalized orthodontic care in the Lee’s Summit area, we would love to meet you!
2070 NW Lowenstein Dr. Suite C, Lees Summit, Missouri 64081 Orthodontics & Jaw Surgery | Early Interceptive Orthodontics | Clear Aligners Braces | Comprehensive Cleft & Craniofacial Care Mention this ad and get an additional $250 off orthodontic treatment!
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD HAVEN FOR LITTLE ONES: STYLISH FINDS & ESSENTIALS FOR BABY
Picture Perfect!
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Finding baby clothes just got easier! Lil' Miss Miley’s Baby Boutique is now open in downtown Lee’s Summit in the building that once housed Cameron’s at 24 S.E. 3rd Street. Your kiddos will shine when they visit, as will you.
When Beth Milam became a grandmother, she, like many of us, wanted to find the perfect outfits for her grandchild. She explained, “In November of 2022, we were inspired to create our company when our daughter blessed us with our first grandchild. As I was shopping for our little girl's impending arrival, I was reminded of how much I love shopping for baby clothes. Thus, in starting a new chapter of our lives as grandparents, we also are starting a new chapter of our lives in business with Lil’ Miss Miley’s Baby Boutique.”
Their family-owned boutique began initially online only, with pop-up shows until they opened this welcoming brick-and-mortar space in August of 2024. Last year they had the opportunity to do numerous shows with their travel boutique, and recently had a booth at the Lee’s Summit Octoberfest event.
“We really enjoy the people interaction and getting to meet so many adorable children on a daily basis,” she smiled. “The name Lil' Miss Miley's was created from a
name my children and some close family friends created by combining our last names. It is meaningful because the kids created it due to their close relationship.”
Their goal is to offer the most adorable clothing for both boys and girls. They provide many embroidered outfits, as well as the trending neutral outfits.
They have a wide variety of options in the latest and greatest styles at the most favorable prices. They strive to provide everything you need to make sure your child is ready to dress to the nines or ready to play and relax in soft comfortable clothing. She explained that the Bamboo line is very trendy, and they carry their sleepers and pajamas.
“We offer a large selection of styles to meet your child's clothing needs. We truly are a one stop shop so to speak,” she enamored. “We also have several sweet matching siblings sets for the holiday photo season!”
She offers a vast variety of holiday attire at her store so be sure to visit to enhance your child’s festive season.
In addition, you can find them at the Holiday Boutique again this year November 21st -24th at the Overland Park Convention Center.
Visit lilmissmileys.com and their Facebook page for more information.
realty report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN LEE’S SUMMIT.
This data is a sampling of sold properties from September 2024. Source: IRES MLS system.
THE PERFECT FALL TREAT
ACORN DONUT HOLES
ARTICLE BY MADELINE LEBLANC
As the vibrant colors of summer slowly yield to the warm and earthy hues of autumn, there’s a distinct charm in the air at the arrival of fall. It’s a season filled with the crisp rustling of leaves, cozy sweaters, and the promise of pumpkin-spiced everything. What better way to embrace the changing seasons than by indulging in a delightful treat that captures the essence of both summer’s sweetness and fall’s rich flavors?
My recipe for “Acorn Donut Holes” combines the light, airy sweetness of summer donuts with the warm, comforting tones of fall. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
• Donut holes
• Melting chocolates
• Fall sprinkles
• Pretzels
Instructions:
1. Pour your fall sprinkles into a small bowl for dipping. Lay wax paper down.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the melting chocolates in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. Carefully watch to ensure they don’t burn.
3. Dip the top of each donut hole into the melted chocolate, covering about halfway down the donut.
4. After dipping, immediately dip the chocolate-covered portion of the donut hole into the bowl of sprinkles, coating it with the fall sprinkles.
5. Insert a pretzel into the top of the “acorn” to create the acorn stem.
6. Carefully place the decorated acorn donut holes on the wax paper to let them cool and allow the chocolate to set.
7. Once the chocolate has hardened, your acorn donut holes are ready to enjoy!
These delightful treats are perfect for fall and make for a fun and tasty dessert or snack. Enjoy!
Building Healthy Habits in Preschoolers: The Importance of Routine
As pediatric healthcare providers, we understand how important it is to set the foundation for healthy habits in preschoolers. Establishing consistent routines is one of the most effective ways to do this. Routines provide structure and create a sense of security, helping young children develop both physically and emotionally.
Why Routines Matter
Children thrive on routine. Predictable schedules help them understand what to expect throughout the day, reducing anxiety and providing them with a sense of stability. At an age where so much is new and unpredictable, routines offer a comforting framework that helps children confidently navigate their day.
When preschoolers know what comes next— whether it’s mealtime, playtime, or bedtime— they are more likely to develop positive habits around critical aspects of their health, including sleep, nutrition, and hygiene.
Essential Healthy Habits to Build Through Routine
Sleep
A consistent sleep schedule is essential for young children’s growth and brain development. A bedtime routine that includes calming activities, such as a bath, reading a story, or dimming the lights, signals to your child that it’s time to wind down. Sticking to the same daily routine helps your child fall asleep more easily and get much-needed restorative rest.
Nutrition
Regular mealtimes encourage better eating
habits. Preschoolers who eat at the same time each day are more likely to develop a healthy relationship with food. Try offering balanced meals and snacks at predictable intervals to help your child understand the importance of eating nutritious foods. Involving them in simple meal preparations can make healthy eating fun and educational.
Physical Activity
Physical activity is crucial for preschoolers’ motor skill development and overall health. By building active play into your child’s daily routine, you ensure they get the exercise they need to stay healthy. Simple activities like playing outside, riding a bike, or dancing indoors are great ways to keep your child active and engaged. Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical play each day.
Hygiene
Teaching your child good hygiene habits, such as washing hands, brushing teeth, and bathing regularly, is easier when it’s part of their daily routine. For example, brushing teeth after meals or washing hands before eating can quickly become second nature when done consistently. Turning these tasks into a game or singing a song can make them more enjoyable for your child.
Supporting Your Child Through Routine
As a parent or caregiver, your role in establishing and maintaining routines is essential. Children look to you for guidance and reassurance. Modeling consistency will help them adjust to the routine, and your patience will pay off in the long run.
It’s important to introduce new routines
Provider Spotlight: Dr. Joseph Lammert
As a parent himself, Dr. Lammert can relate to the challenges, joys, and questions of having a new child at home. He enjoys walking alongside his patients and families through their experiences.
Dr. Joseph Lammert is now seeing patients. Learn more and make an appointment online.
gradually, especially if your child is resistant to change. Start by incorporating one new habit at a time and giving your child time to adapt before adding more. Be patient if there are setbacks, and celebrate small victories when your child embraces a new habit.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
We understand that maintaining a routine can be challenging, especially with busy family schedules or unexpected disruptions like travel or illness. The key is to remain flexible while still prioritizing your child’s needs. If a routine is interrupted, try to get back on track as soon as possible to maintain the consistency your child relies on.
When introducing a new routine, it’s common for children to resist at first. Stay calm and consistent, offering gentle encouragement rather than forcing changes. Over time, they will adjust and become more comfortable with their new schedule.
Building Lifelong Healthy Habits
Establishing routines during the preschool years sets the stage for lifelong healthy habits. From better sleep to improved eating and hygiene, routines help your child feel secure and supported while promoting their overall well-being. At Community Choice Pediatrics, we are here to guide you every step of the way, providing advice and support to ensure your child’s health and happiness.
If you have any questions or need assistance building healthy habits for your child, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. Together, we can help your preschooler thrive!
Photo by Carol Waller Fine Art & Photography