SIMPLYkc Magazine June 2022

Navigating YOUR HIGH SCHOOLER’S ROAD TO FREEDOM

CASUALLY COOL

JUNE ‘22 | Vol. 10 No. 2

& NEON TOO

INFOCUS

A FLOORING FOR YOUR HOME-AREA RUG DIMENSIONS

BE WELL

CARING FOR YOUR FEET

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CONTENTS

AROUND TOWN 12

22

OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS PRESENTS STEMS: A GARDEN SOIRÉE

INFOCUS 14

MEETING YOUR SKIN CARE GOALS

BE WELL 16

IT’S ALL ABOUT PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

7 THINGS 19

SEVEN WAYS TO CELEBRATE DAD THIS FATHER’S DAY

LOCAL GOOD EATS 20 BEAUTY 22

YOUR SUMMER SKIN WILL THANK YOU FOR THESE HELPFUL HINTS

INFOCUS 24

26

RAISING THE BAR IN FLOOR COVERINGS

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FASHION 26

CASUALLY COOL AND NEON TOO

APP OF THE MONTH 33 LET’S HAVE LUNCH!

FINANCE 34

HOW TO NAVIGATE THE HOUSING MARKET WITHOUT GETTING BURNED

DEAR KACIE 36 DUMPED FOR CATS

PARENTING 38

19 38

34

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOUR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT?

BECAUSE I SAID SO 40 WHAT’S MY AGE AGAIN?

IN FOCUS 42 LOVE + BIKE

BOOKISH 44

A DEEP DIVE INTO ONE READ

DISH 46

TASTE THE WORLD AT SAIL AWAY WINE

GOOD TASTES 48 LET’S HAVE LUNCH!

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

ADVENTURE AWAITS YOU June 21. Remember that date. Love that date. It’s the first day of summer.

The start of summer never fails to rekindle my love of this city. From baseball to Boulevardia, sightseeing to soirées, festivals to family time, adventure exists all around you if you know where to look.

And with this month’s issue of SIMPLYkc Magazine, you don’t have to go far.

We’ve compiled seven ways you can help celebrate dad for Father’s Day on page 45. It features ax throwing, movie marathons, hikes, and cold beer. Or, read about Stems: A Garden Soirée at the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, an annual summer party that benefits the Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park, on page 12. The blossoming gardens are a perfect setting for you and your friends to enjoy two bands, dancers, artists and delectable bites from more than 25 local restaurants.

And if summer has rekindled your love of this city so much that you are ready to seek out a new home—or maybe purchase your first one—learn more about navigating the housing market without getting burned on page 34.

We hope this issue will inspire you to discover new parts of the city or try things you’ve always wanted to do. But, most importantly, we hope you have a little fun this summer.

Have some great adventures, Kansas City. We’ll see you around.

Suzanne Steiner, Publisher

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PUBLISHER Suzanne Steiner suz@simplykcmag.com MANAGING EDITOR Brennan Hallock of Hallock Writing & Design editor@simplykcmag.com ART DIRECTOR Julie Faerman, Whoo Design PHOTOGRAPHY Jami Bowman of Electric Imagez, Melanie McDowell, Marcelo Espina with KC Photo and Video, Overland Park Arts and Recreation Department, West Elm Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julie Burton, Sophie Oswald, Bethaney Phillips, David Marks, Lauren Dreher, Brennan Hallock of Hallock Writing & Design, Shannon E. Roesgen, Judy Goppert, T.E. Cunningham, Tiffany Killoren, Gina Reardon ADVERTISING Gretchen McGraw, Sales 620.474.5859 sales@simplykcmag.com INQUIRIES SIMPLYkc Magazine 11730 W. 135th St., Ste. 116 Overland Park, KS 66221 913.209.9394 contact@simplykcmag.com simplykcmag.com

COVER & FASHION IMAGES PHOTOS • West Elm Photography, 201 W. Pearl St., Harrisonville, MO, 816.665.6505, 201wepstudios@gmail.com, westelmphotgraphy.com, @westelmphotography MODELS • Addison Steiner • Sarah Kerns, Voices &, 118 Walnut, Suite 120, Kansas City, MO, 816.753.4261, voicesand.com, @voicesandmodels WARDROBE • Lululemon, 4555 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS, 913.696.1031, 444 Nichols Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.531.2894, lululemon.com, @lululemon HAIR & MAKEUP • Alex Glaviano, 816.216.8771, ag-artistry.com STYLISTS • Lacey Lutgen & Morgan Foreman

SIMPLYkc Magazine is published monthly by Mach Publications, LLC. No portion of this publication June be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of SIMPLYkc Magazine. All rights reserved. SIMPLYkc Magazine accepts no infringement or other responsibility for unsolicited or contributed copy, artwork, photography, or advertisements. No representation is made as to the accuracy hereof and is printed subject to omissions and errors. Opinions and statements in SIMPLYkc Magazine are contributed by authors and/or advertisers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SIMPLYkc Magazine. Photography and material in the publication as well as design June not be copied or reproduced in any form without written permission.

References for copy will be made available upon written request.

All rights reserved. ©2022, Mach Publications, LLC.

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AROUND TOWN

OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS PRESENTS STEMS: A GARDEN SOIRÉE

WRITTEN BY SHANNON E. ROESGEN / PHOTOS BY OVERLAND PARK ARTS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

S

ip wine. Taste delicious food from top restaurants and caterers. Enjoy art, music, fireworks, beautiful surroundings, and more. Meet friends at the networking event of the summer—the place to see and be seen. Support a vision of recreational and cultural enrichment and inspiration for present and future generations.

Stems is a lovely garden party in the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens and the premier networking event in Johnson County, as well as the flagship event of the Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park.

This event has been happening since 2008 and is known to be the party of the summer and a date night to never forget. Whether you attend as a

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guest or corporate sponsor, the beautiful ambiance and delectable dishes will not disappoint.

There can be no better cause than enhancing the quality of life of the community, and proceeds from Stems do just that. All proceeds from Stems: A Garden Soirée continue to contribute to the support and development of Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and city art installations.

“Once again this year, our event will include a wonderful taste of local cuisine from various restaurants throughout the KC metro. We’ll have plenty of wine and other beverages to sip from keepsake hand-painted wine glasses,” says Jennifer Cairns, Events and Donor Services manager for the

Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. The hand-painted Stems wine glasses will be the signature of the event.

Guests will sample a tasty array of food and drink, from sliders to crab cakes, antipasto to fruit crepes, fine wines, craft beers, and specialty mixed drinks that perfectly complement the food. Nonalcoholic beverages and bottled water will also be served. And, of course, one can never host a party in Kansas City without serving barbecue.

With the walking you’ll do around the arboretum, you will have earned some extra calories as a reward, so don’t forget to sample the delicious desserts! Past dessert choices have included fried cheesecake, tiramisu,

and fresh fruit crepes, just to name a few.

“We’ll also have live music, performance artists, and fireworks to end the evening with a bang—literally!

And the best part, all of this takes place within the beautiful Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Garden. Guests will also be able to sneak a peek at the construction of the Arboretum’s new LongHouse Visitor Center,” adds Cairns.

Because construction is well under way and is adding a bit of a parking challenge to the event, “We’re asking guests to please rideshare to Stems,” says Cairns.

“It’s a win-win scenario. It frees up space in our lots and ensures our guests can fully enjoy the evening’s beverages,” she explains. Uber or Lyft are also wise options.

Those with Patron parking passes or handicap tags will park in the paved parking lot and surrounding areas.

Thus far, Stems has been incredibly successful and has raised $3.6 million to date. This is due to generous sponsors, donors, and attendees, as well as over 100 amazing volunteers.

If you are wondering what to wear, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Women tend to wear “sundresses, capri pants—anything you’d wear to a patio party or other dressy outdoor event. Men wear Hawaiian or golf shirts and casual pants. If temperatures are above normal, shorts are appropriate. Jeans are not appropriate,” says Cairns.

Here are the details Event date: Saturday, June 25, 7-10 pm (Patron ticket-holders enjoy VIP parking and early entry at 6 pm)

Location: Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Ticket prices: $150 general admission; $250 Patron tickets (includes VIP parking and early admission to the event)

Anticipated attendance: 1,200 guests (Only guests 21 years or older will be admitted.

This will be strictly enforced.)

For more information on Stems, or to purchase tickets, visit stemssoiree.org.

To volunteer, call 913.322.6467.

Stems will not be canceled unless there is an immediate danger due to severe weather.

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INFOCUS

MEETING YOUR SKIN CARE GOALS PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN

Mia Bella Donna Medspa offers personalized skin care services to help you achieve the best you!

Mia Bella Donna Medspa has been offering customized skin care products and treatments since 2012.

Located within the office of medical director Dr. Joseph C. Camarata and Aesthetic Surgical Arts, Mia Bella Donna Medspa provides personalized consultations with a wide variety of skin care and body sculpting services.

Managing partner Kathleen Koffman says that the business has come back strong post-pandemic, and they have continued to expand their products and services in the past year. Recently the spa has purchased two new SyndeoTM hydrafracial devices, and is one of only a few medspas in the KC area to offer this service. Syndeo (meaning “connect” in Greek) allows the aestheticians to obtain a new level of data on each client which will then provide the ultimate personalized experience.

Pictured:

Dr. Joseph Camarata

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Nikki Lindsey is Mia Bella Donna’s certified aesthetician, and she has been with the spa from the very beginning. “Nikki is the heart and soul of the spa,” Koffman explains. “She’s amazing and loves to educate her patients. She’s passionate about ensuring that her clients receive the correct products and services for the outcome they are looking for.”

Dawn Swartz, spa manager, states, “Every client has something they want to correct, whether it is wrinkles, pigment from sun damage, or lack of hydration. When meeting with Nikki, she will go through all of your concerns and goals. All of the treatments are very personalized. We look at each client individually and do everything possible to meet their expectations.”

Mia Bella Donna Medspa also offers Skin Classic, SkinPen/microneedling, custom chemical peels, IPL

photofacials, and fractional laser/ skin resurfacing. The skin care line includes SkinMedica, Obagi, iS Clinical, Skinbetter Science and Colorscience. Botox and fillers are administered by Dr. Camarata.

You can find monthly specials on Mia Bella Donna’s website, asa-kc.com. To schedule a complimentary consult, call 913.827.9898 or stop by to see their location at 12541 Foster St., Suite 330, Overland Park, KS 66213.

“Every client has something they want to correct. We look at each client individually and do everything possible to meet their expectations.”

Pictured:

Nikki Lindsay, certified aesthetician

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BE WELL

IT’S ALL ABOUT PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD WRITTEN BY DAVID MARKS

You don’t have to be an athlete or even a “weekend warrior” to turn your ankle and hurt it. Something as simple as walking on an uneven surface can cause a painful or even debilitating sprain.

The truth is, our feet and ankles are complex structures—much more complicated than we may think. The feet are made up of 26 different bones and more than 33 joints, arranged in columns and arches that vary in both stiffness and flexibility.

Keep in mind, they have to support our full body weight and cushion all the impact of walking, running, and jumping. So it isn’t too surprising that foot and ankle injuries happen frequently. In fact, around one in five people will suffer from foot and ankle injuries in their lifetime.

“Symptoms of a foot or ankle injury include more significant pain, increasing swelling, or difficulty with bearing weight,” says Nathan J. Kiewiet, MD, orthopedic foot and an-

kle surgeon at AdventHealth.

Still, if the cause of the pain isn’t obvious, it may not be easy to know if it’s necessary to see a doctor or specialist.

“If someone is experiencing continued pain and/or swelling that doesn’t improve, inability to bear weight and weakness, then they shouldn’t just try treating the problem at home,” explains John Bleazard, DO, orthopedic surgeon at AdventHealth.

Left untreated, foot and ankle injuries can have an effect in other parts of the foot. Pain can mean that weight cannot be put through the foot, which can actually change the shape and mechanics of the joint.

“Acute injuries can include fractures or breaks of the foot or ankle, foot and

ankle sprains, and tendon injuries such as Achilles ruptures,” says Dr. Kiewiet.

“Arthritis is a common chronic condition that can require treatment by foot and ankle specialists, along with bunions, flat feet, and toe deformities,” says Dr. Bleazard.

In the United States alone, more than 56 million people have arthritis or suffer from similar conditions that affect the joints. Arthritis in the ankle can lead to pain, swelling, and instability in the ankle joint.

Fortunately, there is a lot of advanced medical technology available to help physicians determine the extent of a foot or ankle injury, including: • CT scans, which provide a detailed continued on page 18

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BE WELL CONT. picture of the joint structure •U ltrasounds, which can show ligaments and tendons from different viewing angles •X -rays, to determine if any bones are broken •M RIs, which provide images of the softer tissues like ligaments in the foot and ankle.

When surgery isn’t necessary, patients often benefit from treatments including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and/or medicine.

“Conservative treatments for foot and ankle problems include antiinflammatories like ibuprofen, inserts for shoes or braces, physical therapy, and injections,” says Dr. Kiewiet.

Of course, it’s important to do anything you can to prevent foot and ankle injuries from happening in the first place. For example, you should

always warm up before any sports activity, avoid walking or running on uneven surfaces, and choose athletic shoes specifically for your foot type.

“If you’re someone who hasn’t done a lot of exercise or physical activity recently, it’s important to start slow and work up to a goal,” says Dr. Bleazard.

Most of all, it’s important to listen to your body. If you experience foot and ankle pain during a sport, stop the activity or modify the activity until the pain subsides. Your pain condition or injury should first be brought to the attention of your primary care doctor, who can determine if you should be referred to an orthopedic specialist.

For more information, visit AdventHealthKC.com, or to find the right primary care doctor, visit MyHealthKC.com.

Plantar Fasciitis

One of the most common foot and ankle injuries in adults is plantar fasciitis. It occurs when the fascia band of tissue in the arch of the foot becomes inflamed, causing sharp pain in the heel of the foot. Some cases of plantar fasciitis can be resolved simply with rest, ice, and stretching, while others will require anti-inflammatory medication and wearing a heel pad before finding relief. If you’re suffering from this condition, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common orthopedic foot problems in adults. If you have heel pain, talk to your primary care provider.

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7 THINGS

7

WAYS TO CELEBRATE DAD THIS FATHER’S DAY

1. Help him complete a project. If your dad is known for fixing or building things around the house, offer him a hand. Maybe there’s a project he has been putting off, or something he wants to do but hasn’t started. Whatever it is, make it clear you are here to help.

2. Throw some axes together. Whether you want to take your dad to one of the local ax-throwing spots or try your hand in the backyard, this can be a fun activity for the two of you. If you’re doing it at home away from the experts, be sure to do your research and be extra safe.

3. Have a movie marathon. Let your dad pick one of his favorite series or a few other movies he loves and spend some time watching them together. This may be a good time for you to show some interest in a favorite film of his you have refused to watch so far. Just grab some snacks and get to it!

4. Cook your dad a meal. Show your dad you care by cooking him a delicious meal.

You could choose one of his favorites or one he has always wanted to try. If you don’t have many skills in the kitchen, feel free to go out for a bite to eat, or order in.

5. Host a family game night. Whether your dad likes board games, video games, or enjoys games in another form, hosting a family game night can be fun for the whole family. Bust out some of the family favorites and play them together.

6. Enjoy the great outdoors. You could go for a short walk, take a hike, hang out at the park, or even just sit on the patio together. Leave it up to your dad to choose what he wants to do, but try to spend some time outside.

7. G rab a drink. Whether your dad prefers an ice-cold craft beer or a fancy cocktail, sip on a few beverages together. You could try making them at home or visit his favorite bar.

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L ocal

GOOD EATS

Chef Carl Thorne-Thomsen’s award-winning restaurant offers creative American cuisine, craft cocktails, and fine wines. Chef Thorne-Thomsen, chef/owner of Story, is a James Beard Award Nominee for Best Chef Midwest! Enjoy patio, bar, or dining room seating at Story.

Featured menu items include: Alaskan halibut, beef short ribs, lobster tagliatelle, soft shell crabs, and more. Story also offers monthly wine dinners, a fried chicken special on Wednesday nights, and a burger special on Thursday nights. Visit storykc.com to learn more.

3931 W. 69th Terr., Prairie Village, KS • 913.236.9955 info@storykc.com • storykc.com

Austins Bar & Grill has been serving Southern Johnson County for over 34 years. Our family-owned establishments offer a fun sports bar environment to watch all the games. Fresh quality food is provided with great daily food and drink specials. Enjoy our happy hour menu 3-6 p.m. Monday-Friday!

SOUTH OLATHE - 2103 E. 151st St. • 913.829.2106 NORTH OLATHE - 11180 S. Lone Elm Rd. • 913.322.2337 GARDNER - 245 Moonlight Rd. • 913.856.6965 austinsbarandgrill.com

UNdo what you think you know about food. We live to serve you chef-inspired food made with fresh, local ingredients. We promise to buy and support seasonal, local ingredients first; if not local we source from smaller family GAP-certified or organic farms, prime growing regions, artisan producers, and with fair trade partnerships. Fork or no fork, you can be sure you’re getting the highest quality, socially responsible ingredients possible.

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Our food is simple, elegant, and honest. The menu is inspired by a combination of American, Greek, French, and Italian cuisines. Our commitment to freshness and quality is first and foremost, as we use the season’s best offerings and buy from local farmers and purveyors whenever possible.

The service team at YaYa’s consistently aims to provide the best service and complete guest satisfaction. We’re proud to be able to meet each special request of our guests, whether it’s food, beverage, or a special setting.

7021 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.345.1111 yayaskc.com

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Burnt End BBQ is a fast casual BBQ restaurant located in Overland Park.

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BEAUTY

YOUR SUMMER SKIN WILL HANK YOU FOR THESE HELPFUL HINTS WRITTEN BY SOPHIE OSWALD

T

he steps to keeping your skin healthy change during the summer. Unique needs appear when these warm and sunny months come knocking. Whether you spend your days basking in the sun and humidity or inside enjoying your air conditioning, your skin will be affected by your choices.

“All effective routines, no matter what season, include the following: cleanse, treat, and protect,” explains Sara Rieman, licensed esthetician and owner of Elevate Esthetics Parlor, LLC. “First, cleanse.

Cleansing may need to be in-

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creased in frequency, and for some maybe even change from a cream cleanser to a gel cleanser.”

Be sure to wash your face in the morning and evening. You may decide to wash your face more often, but always listen to your skin. Excessive washing may lead to drying out your skin. On top of that— even if you are sweating more than usual—your skin doesn’t need an exuberant amount of showering.

You will be just fine with a single shower a day. But feel free to take an extra one after exercising if you feel it is necessary.

“Second, treat,” Rieman continues.

“Make sure to have a hydrating antioxidant serum, like vitamin C with hyaluronic acid, in your morning routine to act as a boost of hydration, and a partner to your daily SPF in fighting environmental damage.”

If you want to keep your skin in great shape, you should be using sunscreen year-round. However, it is especially vital to apply sunscreen in the summer. You likely spend more of your time outside during this season, so you may need to apply sunscreen more often than normal.

The sunscreen you choose to carry with you this time of year should be at least SPF 35. Be sure to look for options that offer broadspectrum protection. “Follow the 9:00/12:00/3:00—every three hours reapplication—rule,” explains Rieman. “If it’s difficult for you to remember to reapply, consider a powder brush-on block to make it easier.”

but the decision is up to you. Wearing less makeup can help you avoid clogging up your skin.

Keep your lips in mind too. Skin cancer certainly doesn’t forget about them. This part of the face might not be the first to come to mind when thinking about sunscreen, but it’s just as important. Grab a lip protectant with SPF to apply during the summer months.

On top of cleansing, treating, and protecting the skin, Rieman suggests adding soothing steps. If you struggle with acne, these steps can help decrease the inflammation that comes along with it. Soothing steps also come in handy with sunburns and simply cooling yourself off. “Ask your esthetician what would be best, but remember that utilizing a cold treatment on a regular basis is a nice summer treat for your skin,” Rieman explains. “Consider a rose quartz roller, which you can keep in the refrigerator, or even an ice cube.”

To stay even more on top of your SPF needs, you may consider looking for makeup and moisturizer that contain it too. Some skincare experts advise against wearing too much makeup in the summer to let your skin breathe,

Another tip to keep your skin healthy this summer is exfoliating. Sunscreen, oil, sweat, and dirt all play a role in clogging your pores. Exfoliation is one of the best ways to help unclog your pores. Start with once or

twice a week, and be sure to skip it if your skin is sunburnt.

If you are someone who loves rocking a tan in the summer, consider giving self-tanner a try. It may be tricky to get the hang of at first, but it is much better for your skin. Instead of ditching the sunscreen to develop a tan, try putting your skin first this season with self-tanning lotion, mousse, or other similar products.

Finally, hydration is an essential part of taking care of the skin. Plan to drink more water this summer. Of course your skin will thank you, but the rest of your body will too. Getting your fair share of healthy foods like fruits and vegetables will not hurt either.

Now go enjoy a healthy, hydrated, exfoliated, SPF-filled summer!

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INFOCUS

RAISING THE BAR IN FLOOR COVERINGS

WRITTEN BY JUDY GOPPERT PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN

Y Area Rug Dimensions has been providing quality, affordable rugs to the Kansas City area for over 25 years.

our home is where your heart is, and selecting rugs, carpet, and every surface you set foot on is extremely important. Area Rug Dimensions and KC Wholesale Carpet designers can walk you through the process of discovering your dream décor.

Chris Bradford brought his knowledge of floor coverings to life in 1998 after seeing the need for area rugs exploding as hardwood floors took over most of the square footage of every new home being built. He also noticed the lack of selection and knowledge in the area rug category.

“I grew up helping my dad in his custom rug manufacturing shop,” explains Bradford. “My wife Christy joined me in the business eight years ago after a successful career in mortgage banking, and is now key to our continued success.”

Bradford notes that luxury vinyl plank flooring is trending. It is waterproof, and he explains that it looks more like real wood than ever.

KC Wholesale Carpet offers LVP in marble, tile, and stained concrete looks in addition to the wood grain or wood floor looks. Also, water-

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proof carpet is all the rage. Waterproof carpet means liquids cannot drain through to the pad, and the carpet backing is waterproof.

they enter the home, and are what people comment on. “I feel so blessed to have discovered Area Rug Dimensions—a quality shop with a kind and competent staff that made the decisions I needed. I cannot recommend them more highly to anyone.”

“We don’t run sales because we’re wholesale every day to everyone,” Bradford smiles. “We never cut service or quality, and can serve you on a carryout basis at wholesale. Or we can be full service, offering measure and installation—also on a wholesale basis.”

Bradford says they are unique in that the same staff that work the flooring also work the area rug business. “We are two separate businesses. Area Rug Dimensions is for rugs, runners, and anything requiring a finished, bound edge. And KC Wholesale Carpet sells all types of flooring. The fact that the salespeople work full-time in both businesses allows for crossover expertise you won’t find anywhere else.”

“I feel so blessed to have discovered Area Rug Dimensions—a quality shop with a kind and competent staff that made the decisions I needed. I cannot recommend them more highly to anyone.”

Bradford recommends when choosing a floor covering to see it in person. This is the best way to get a feel

Area Rug Dimensions and KC Wholesale Carpet also give back to the community and donate area rugs and carpet to charity for direct use in their safehouse/shelter housing, as well as for their fundraising events via silent auction. They also donate to Habitat for Humanity.

Pictured: Chris & Christy Bradford, owners of KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions

for what you want to own and to choose the right color, texture, and style. Looking at it on the internet may not give you the right perspective. He understands that most people have not purchased flooring lately and find that it is typically more expensive than they anticipated.

Why not take a look at what is under your feet, and make a commitment to updating it, refreshing it, and making it more pleasing for your life? It is a simple way to brighten and update your living space.

“Between supply and demand, freight cost, and inflation, prices are on the rise,” he explains. “I’d buy sooner rather than later, because prices are not going down anytime soon.”

A satisfied KC Wholesale customer recently commented, “I have never owned a ‘nice’ rug before. Now I have seven. They are the most attractive feature of my new home, which has all new furniture on all new hardwood floors.” The customer explained that the visual appeal of the rugs is amazing and the quality exceptional. They are the first thing people see when

Area Rug Dimensions and KC Wholesale Carpet • 12623 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS • 913.327.8784 arearugdimensions.com • kcwholesalecarpetstores.com SIMPLYkc Specials Area Rug Dimensions: FREE AREA RUG PAD with rug purchase if you mention this SIMPLYkc article.

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FASHION CASUALLY COOL & NEON TOO LULULEMON 4555 W. 119th St. Leawood, KS 913.696.1031 444 Nichols Rd. Kansas City, MO 816.531.2894

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Casual and athletic wear are here to stay but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Think: Neon color combinations paired with solids and belt bags. Throw in a few comfortably cool pieces into your existing wardrobe to create ease and functionality at the same time.

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Photography / West Elm Photography Models / Addison Steiner • Sarah Kerns with Voices & Hair & Makeup / Alex Glaviano Stylists / Lacey Lutgen & Morgan Foreman

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JUNE JUNE2022 2022

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FINANCE

HOW TO NAVIGATE THE HOUSING MARKET WITHOUT GETTING BURNED WRITTEN BY BRENNAN HALLOCK

A

seller’s market is brought on by demand exceeding supply, and we are in a scorching seller’s market in Johnson County.

The demand is high. The houses are scarce. And buyers are ready to flash cash to get what they want. How do we navigate this craziness right on our doorstep in this peaceful KC suburb?

How do you find the right home—and get it?

“A buyer needs to be prepared and get competitive,” explains Alexis Mirakian, realtor with the Parsons|Mirakian team. “First thing a buyer needs to do is get preapproved with a local mortgage lender, because a preapproval letter will accompany any of-

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fer. Or if you are purchasing in cash, have the proof of funds ready.”

In this market, you don’t have time to be approved after you make an offer. Houses are being sold before they even hit the market, so speed is essential.

“To be competitive, buyers need to consider dropping the contingency of selling their home to buy the new home,” adds Mirakian. This may mean you will need to sell your home after you have moved into your new home. Or you could move out of your current home into a rental, and then start hunting for a new home.

You also need to do a lot of research before making an offer. “They need to be confident in the location, neighborhood, and style of home they’re

looking for because once a great house hits the market it could be under contract in less than 24 hours,” explains Mirakian.

You need to be ready to make a quick offer, sometimes before you’ve even been physically inside the home. You will most likely be competing against numerous other offers, and getting yours in immediately is essential.

How do you avoid overpaying for a home?

A seller’s market has numerous benefits for the seller, and being able to price a home above its market value is one of them. Having a real estate agent who is familiar with the area and knows the true value of homes is important to avoid overpaying.

“Their real estate agent can pull the most recent comps in the area on what homes have sold for and you can see how much over asking houses are selling,” says Mirakian.

This doesn’t mean you won’t pay above asking price or market value. In a competitive market, other offers may drive up the price. But a benefit of a hot market to the buyer is that even if you pay above asking price, the home’s value will likely reach that price and exceed it in a short amount of time, maybe even a few months.

What if you are a renter who wants a home?

If you are in a rental but planning to buy, it is unlikely waiting will be beneficial. Yes, the housing market will cool off at some point and may become a buyer’s market. But there are a few reasons waiting is not helpful, even during such a strong market.

First, you don’t know when the market is going to calm down. Trying to time it

will be like tossing the dice. If you have the money to purchase a home and plan to do it, don’t let the market determine when you buy.

Second, rental prices are not going down. They are only rising at a similar pace to housing prices. By waiting, you will just end up paying more in rental costs instead of putting that toward your mortgage.

And third, our money is currently at its highest inflation rate in almost 40 years. This article isn’t going to include a lesson in inflation (because the internet is flooded with those right now), but it should be pointed out that buying a home—and getting a mortgage with a low interest rate—when we are in a state of high inflation is beneficial to the buyer.

What are some signs the market is cooling off?

ogy because there are signs when the market is settling down. You just don’t know if those signs will start showing up tomorrow, next year, in five years, or in a decade.

Mirakian explains that there are a few signs to pay attention for. When most houses stay on the market for more than a day or two, things may be getting back to normal. Also, right now many houses have 40-60 showings in less than 48 hours. This is an incredible amount, and is a good gauge to determine the demand.

And the amount of offers coming in on a single home is another similar gauge.

Right now many homes are getting 15 or more offers.

A realtor can help you watch for these signs and others. If you need help finding a home or selling your current home, the Parsons|Mirakian team is happy to assist: parsonsmirakian.com.

I mentioned before that trying to time the market is like tossing the dice.

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r a e D

KACIE DUMPED FOR CATS

I’m getting serious with a guy I’m dating. Everything is going great. Our families are great. I could really see myself with him for the long-term.

But there’s one problem—he hates my cats. He’s not allergic. He just doesn’t like them. He doesn’t pet them. He won’t watch them while I’m out of town. He doesn’t own pets, but he has owned dogs before so it’s not like he doesn’t like pets. Just cats. I’m not getting rid of my cats for him.

How do I handle this? Should I really dump a guy over cats?

Let’s be honest. Pets are like our children. Sure, you can’t kennel a kid without getting arrested.

But you get the idea. Pets are family.

Make sure you communicate your feelings to this guy—can I call him your boyfriend? Let’s call him your boyfriend for now. Does your boyfriend know you’re bummed by his lack of love for your furchildren-you-can-put-in-a-cage? Let him know this lack of love for the cats makes you upset. He probably won’t change his mind about the cats, but he should at least know where you stand.

You and your boyfriend don’t need to agree on everything. That’s how relationships are. As long as your boyfriend isn’t abusive toward your cats, he doesn’t need to cuddle up with them. Since you brought the cats into the relationship, you’ll need to do a little extra work.

Your boyfriend shouldn’t be required to love your cats as much as you, or even spend as much time caring for them. As long as your cats’ needs are being met, consider giving your partner a pass on pet duties.

Moving forward, if you decide to bring any extra cats or dogs into the relationship, make sure you’re communicating with each other. Meanwhile, give your cats a rub from me!

There are plenty of cat lovers in the world.

If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to contact@simplykcmag.com.

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PARENTING

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOUR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT? WRITTEN BY T.E. CUNNINGHAM

It’s a milestone moment for your child—high school. And it’s a milestone for you as well. While there is much to celebrate and enjoy in those four years, it’s also a pivotal time to talk to your child about what comes next. There are many paths to choose from, including: • College • Entering the workforce with a fulltime job • Trade school • Participating in an internship or apprenticeship • Joining a service organization like AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, or Teach for America • Enlisting in a military branch • Starting a business If your child is unsure of what they want to do, college is always a great option. Even if the career path takes a turn and goes away from the stu-

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dents’ degree, they always have that piece of paper. A college degree shows future employers more than experience in course study—it proves that the candidate can complete a long and challenging task.

College also allows your child time to mature—emotionally and mentally—and become ready to enter the workforce.

If college is in the cards, there are many things they can do to prepare during high school, so it’s never too early to start.

Get good grades. You have been preaching this one since kindergarten, but encourage your kid to stay focused; academic excellence may be the difference between the college your child wishes to attend and the college that will accept them. Excellent grades may also open scholarship opportunities.

Additionally, they will want to take a curriculum that can best prepare them for college. In some cases, your child may be able to take advanced placement classes or dual enrollment classes through a local community college that will allow the student to receive college credit for first-year courses such as English, algebra, and more.

Start preparing early. Use the first three years of high school to check out a variety of schools, in-state and out-of-state. You and yours will want to look at many things, from curriculum to support services to campus lifestyle. Seek advice from teachers, school counselors, and coaches. Older friends and family attending college can provide input as well.

“There are many opportunities after high school, but college brings value in many ways,” advises Shelly Gehrke, PhD., vice president, Enrollment Management and Student Success at Em-

poria State University. “In college, you not only work towards a degree, but college is also a space for great growth and personal exploration through student organizations and activities, high impact learning, and more.”

Master your craft. If your child plays sports, is the regular lead in high school plays, or is a member of a band or the high school music group, encourage them to work on their craft. It could provide entry to a school of the first choice or allow for additional scholarship opportunities. Don’t forget to let your child have fun while mastering that talent!

Research colleges and majors. This can help you and your student make wiser decisions. For example, do you want your child to attend a local school or far away? Also, which schools have the best programs for the desired major? By starting as early as freshman year, you can target specific schools and determine what is needed to get accepted.

Study for the SAT or ACT and take practice tests. Many colleges require some testing to be admitted or to receive certain scholarships. Once you have your school shortlist, make a note of the required testing and start helping your child bone up. Students should take plenty of practice tests. The final score may be the decider for being accepted to the school of choice.

Go see for yourself. An excellent way to decide which schools are on your family’s shortlist is to attend a college fair. These events feature a myriad of universities with teams to answer all types of questions.

Then choose your preferred schools and hit the road. Visiting the actual campus and taking guided tours is a fantastic way to find the school of choice. “Universities love to host students and families on campus,” notes Dr. Gehrke. “This is the best way for the university to showcase what it has to offer and for the student and family to see and experience the university.”

Apply for scholarships. College costs can be challenging, so apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible. Typically, spring of the junior year is the time to start. Many deadlines are January of senior year, so don’t miss out! This is also the time to research and determine what financial aid may be required. Remember, college advisors are there to help with these questions and provide assistance.

Dr. Gehrke concludes, “Applying, getting into college, and paying for college can seem like a lot. However, there are many people and websites available to help students and families along the way. I always encourage people to contact me directly because I want this experience to be the start of an excellent college journey … and to their career.”

Shelly Gehrke - PhD., Vice President, Enrollment Management and Student Success at Emporia State University

620.341.5269 • emporia.edu

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BECAUSE I SAID SO...

WHAT’S MY AGE AGAIN? WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTO BY JAMI BOWMAN

There are many things you can say about your age.

There’s the timeless saying, “Age is just a number.” John Lennon said, “Count your age as friends, not years.” And Walt Disney said, “Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.”

Age really is about how you feel, not how you look in a mirror. My real is age 40. But the age I feel? That depends on what I’m doing. I can feel like I’m young and dumb or old and wise. Here are the ages I feel.

life. Metabolism is trending down. My muscle mass is getting smaller. I’m lucky I don’t have back problems yet. But 40 feels good, even if I’m walking out of a cardio class with a purple face.

THE CORPORATE WORLD: 24

THE PARENTING TEENAGERS WORLD: 18

I graduated college in 2004. Fast forward to 2022 and I might as well have graduated a couple years ago. I didn’t enter the corporate world after graduation. I stayed home and raised my two kids during my twenties and thirties. I did freelance writing—a lot of it.

Now I work full time. I’m quickly making up lost years and learning how to talk the KPI talk. For those of you who (like me not long ago) aren’t familiar with office nomenclature, KPI stands for Key Performance Indicator.

THE DATING WORLD: 45 I’m aging physically. Looking good isn’t effortless anymore. There are wrinkles around my eyes. I have lines going down my chest (I call them cougar lines). I feel older than 40, but 45 isn’t a bad age. Dating at 40 (or dating at any age) is exciting and new. But this time, a dream wedding is not the goal. Neither is having babies together. It’s strangely comforting just hanging out with someone without the pressures of being young.

THE FITNESS WORLD: 40 I feel my age. Whatever 40 is supposed to feel like, I feel that. There’s no more eating Taco Bell at midnight. I have to work harder at maintaining the body of my young adult

Please … I know all the tricks. Frozen vodka in the fridge is not vodka, child. My teenagers will not outsmart me. I feel 18 and I know very well that the parents are the enemy. Only I’m not an enemy. I’m just a smarter teenager at heart.

THE DAUGHTER WORLD: 22 No matter my age, I’m still my parent’s daughter. I’m younger than them and don’t know what they know. I’ll still ask for their advice and take freebies from their fridge when I visit. I still try to do good for them and make them proud.

THE MUSIC WORLD: 19 Come on, my kids love Eminem and Snoop Dog for a reason. The ‘90s music never dies and neither will my 19-year-old music taste.

THE DRIVING WORLD: 50 I can parallel park and haven’t had a ticket in forever. Car insurance loves me. I’m not take her driver’s license away old, but I feel a maturity that only comes with years of driving experience.

Julie Burton is an Overland Park mom, writer, K-State lover, and bacon-hater. She is a blogger and contributing author to the humor book, But Did You Die?: Setting the Parenting Bar Low. Burton’s also been named one of the Today Show’s “funniest parents.” And yes, she really does hate bacon. Please don’t drop her as a friend. Follow Julie at: julieburton.blog • facebook.com/julieburtonwriter • twitter.com/ksujulie • instagram.com/ksujulie

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INFOCUS

LOVE + BIKE LOVELO

STRENGTHENS THROUGH FITNESS, CYCLING, AND CONNECTION WRITTEN BY LAUREN DREHER PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN

I

"

t’s personal,” owner and founder Becca Pento says. This is the main component in everything loVELO does. Becca, a Kansas City native, grew up on bikes.

She remembers riding on the handlebars of her brother’s bike as a child.

Now, as a mom, she incorporates cycling in everything she can. She loves to ride with her family locally, and she uses these family adventures as a way to explore when traveling. This is why it was only fitting for her to open her own cycling studio.

Located in downtown Overland Park, loVELO is a small, boutique-style fitness studio with multiple kinds of workouts available. First, there is a cycling class which has highenergy, dynamic lighting, and intentional music. Becca emphasizes that classes are not a competition or comparison. She knows that people who join her cycling class have many different body types and needs.

From accommodating beginners to someone who is training for a

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Above: Becca Pento, owner of loVELO

“Just walking in you get a feeling of friendship, positivity, and acceptance.” long-distance outdoor ride, she customizes the workout to achieve all goals. This includes endurance level, health concerns, or other limitations.

Becca prides herself in taking those needs into account and making ev-

eryone feel comfortable. She also choreographs the music to match the changing intensity of the ride.

“If you sign up for a cycle class, you won’t get a typical cycle experience,”

one of loVELO’s customers says. “Yes, you will burn a ton of calories, but not only that, you will be taken on a motivating and uplifting journey! Instructors build in times for reflection and introspection. You will leave the class not only with a serious sweat, but also with a renewed spirit!

Additionally, loVELO offers mat classes that improve your mobility and flexibility. These classes complement cycling and appeal to all audiences.

Flexibility classes are uniquely effective for alignment, injury prevention, balance, posture, and better mental health. “I believe flexibility is overlooked. I use an internationally certified program that focuses on movement and ligament lengthening. We’ve seen great results in all ages and skill levels,” explains Becca.

bines core foundation with music and movement, which leads to strengthening while having fun.

MoBALLity is a Pilates-based workout with the use of fitness balls. This fusion class builds pillar strength—the muscles that hold up the skeleton. It com-

Another customer adds, “Just walking in you get a feeling of friendship, positivity, and acceptance. loVELO’s coaches emphasize using good form, listening to your body, and challenging you to push yourself! It’s a place where I enjoy going to work out, and that has never happened to me before.”

Lastly, there is BOOTility which is a circuit based energetic class. This class is a full body workout in a short amount time that is fast paced and adaptable for all fitness levels.

Find out more by visiting loVELO’s website which includes class schedule, packages, and booking a reservation.

loVELO • lovelo.us Downtown Overland Park 8018A Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS SIMPLYkc Special • Receive your first class for only $5 using the code highfivevelo.

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A Not-So-Ordinary Book Discussion

BY TIFFANY KILLOREN

A DEEP DIVE INTO ONE READ Most of these little Bookish columns provide a list of books that fall into certain categories to provide readers options for those next trips to the bookstore, library, or virtual walk through the e-book aisles.

But I’ve decided to devote this column to a single book for a few reasons. First, I had no idea until I was finished with the book that any portion of it was true, which left me a bit gobsmacked and eager to learn more. I get that way with some stories; I finish and then research as much about the true events as possible. I did that with this one, which made the story itself all the more captivating (and horrifying!).

The second reason I chose to devote this column to the following book is because one of my favorite people in the world recommended it—my mom. There are few books that she insists I read, so when she loaned this one to me and kept following up, I knew it was something special.

Before We Were Yours (Lisa Wingate, 2017) Set among the

beauty, mystery, and isolation of a Mississippi River community near Memphis, Tennessee, this story is one that weaves themes of love and family throughout. The book is about a family—five kids living with their parents on a boat in a way of life they loved despite the judgment of society. The children neither knew, nor would have cared, that they were lacking in the niceties of the day, the family one that floated through life accompanied by the stars and sounds of nature. Referred to as “river rats” by some, it was a family—a family who desperately loved one another.

Without giving too much of the story away, an opportunity arose for the children to be taken from their river home and transferred to a children’s home in Memphis. It was there that they struggled to survive in ways they couldn’t have imagined, clinging to one another for the physical, emotional, and mental strength they would need to confront the unimaginable. In the most simple of concepts, Before We Were Yours is a story about the love for one’s family and the invisible ties we

have to those who contribute to our intricate fabric and the soul’s way of remembering. On a broader scale, this book is about the viciousness that some are capable of and how economic status was—and is—so often the measure of one’s worth.

The book itself is beautifully written and a gripping story that brings so many emotions to the surface as you long desperately to reach into its pages and help this family. The true story, however, has so many more layers. It wasn’t until the Author’s Notes at the end that I realized one of the book’s villains was a true person who did real and horrible things that forever impacted loving families. Georgia Tann, the woman who literally stole children from their families for personal gain, actually existed. Look her up online and you’ll see her photo, a prim and proper woman with dainty glasses in a pristine dress, smiling proudly for the camera.

Evil, it seems, comes in all shapes and forms, and this particular figure thought nothing of ripping children from their parents’ arms and building her fortune on the heartache of others.

When I closed the book for the last time, I realized why my mom had so desperately wanted me to read it. This is a story about good versus evil, the strength of family, and how love can survive all.

Tiffany Killorenis a local author and lover of the written word. Her novel, GOOD WILL, was released in 2020 and she is always thinking of new stories to tell. Follow her at @readandthreads on Instagram for book and life musings as she tries to balance career, family and her passion for writing one step - or word - at a time.

PHOTO BY MOLLY KUPLEN

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JOIN US FOR A DELIGHTFUL SUMMER EVENING AT THE OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS

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DISH

photo by matt staub

photo by mark lozano

TASTE THE WORLD AT SAIL AWAY WINE WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON

There’s a new wine bar in town, and there’s nothing else quite like it in Kansas City. Sail Away Wine is located in the heart of downtown North Kansas City, but you might as well take a step inside the country of your choice.

Russ Johnson is owner of Sail Away Wine, a wine bar that allows you to sip (or pour) wine on tap. He says while a self-service wine bar isn’t a new concept, Sail Away Wine is unique in that it’s the first of its kind in the region.

And they also offer food, more specifically flatbread pizzas. It’s been wildly popular, reaching 18,000 unique customers in the first nine months!

“We’re a neighborhood hangout; it’s a social experience,” says Johnson. “Most of the time, our customers come in groups of four or more. Wine is about community and hanging out with other people in a conversational aspect.”

When you walk into Sail Away Wine, you receive a personalized passport card used to unlock the wine of your choice. The bottle wine is displayed behind the glass where the tap pulls from. Each tap has a 1 ounce tasting, a 3 ounce pour, or a 5 ounce pour. Take the passport home with you and when

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you return, the system will remind you which wines you have tried.

Above: R uss Johnson & Heather Brown, Owners of Sail Away Wine. Photo by Mark Lozano

Sail Away Wine brings in wines from Austria, Italy, New York, Germany, Israel, Australia, Portugal, Oregon, Hungary, Denmark, and Croatia, just to name a few. The wines are constantly changing, and the bottles are available to purchase too.

Sail Away Wine offers more than just wine. You can also find Kansas City craft beer plus canned cocktails. And the food—because wine should always be paired with food—is curated to provide an accompaniment to your wine, spirit, or beer. Charcuterie boards, salads, and small plates are available, but the most

popular item is the flatbread pizzas.

When developing Sail Away Wine, Johnson built a pizza oven and hired a chef to create flatbread pizzas. “We didn’t want a full kitchen,” Johnson explains. “We found a self-serve wine bar in Colorado that had a pizza oven. We found the pizzas to be a holistic experience, so we incorporated that into Sail Away Wine.” And the effort paid off. Many customers say the pizza alone is worthy of a visit. But the true focus is the wine and conversation.

How can you not have great conversations when you’re visiting the world one sip at a time?

Be on the lookout for Sail Away Wine opening another store in Kansas in 2023. Visit sailawaywine.com for more information.

309 Armour Road, North Kansas City, MO 816.768.0020 sailawaywine.com

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GOOD TASTES

LET’S HAVE LUNCH! WRITTEN BY GINA REARDON / PHOTO BY MELANIE MCDOWELL

Finally, summertime is upon us and it’s time

At our house, my husband is the grill master, but every now and then I like to remind everyone (and myself) that I have grill skills too. So here it is—your weekend lunch, picnic in the park, or weeknight dinner with friends—grilled lemongrass pork that makes a savory and delicious banh mi sandwich.

Enjoy, and happy summer!

to fire up the grill. The grill is our family’s indispensable cooking apparatus— everything tastes better grilled!

Grilled Lemongrass Pork Banh Mi Sandwich SERVES 4-6

For Assembly

To Assemble

Grilled lemongrass pork

Split bread and spread both sides generously

Homemade sriracha mayonnaise

with sriracha mayonnaise. Layer with sliced

Pickled radishes and carrots

lemongrass pork, pickled vegetables, sliced

English cucumber, thinly sliced Fresh cilantro sprigs, rinsed, spun dry and chilled Fresno chile, thinly sliced Banh mi sandwich rolls or other fresh breads

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cucumber, chili (if using), and fresh cilantro.

Grilled Lemongrass Pork Ingredients

Preparation

1-1/2 pounds boneless pork shoulder

Cut pork across the grain into strips, each about 4-5 inches long, 1/4 inch thick and 1 inch wide. Set aside in a bowl.

3 large garlic cloves, chopped 1/4 cup coarsely chopped shallot 1 fat stalk lemongrass, trimmed and coarsely chopped (about 1/3 cup) 1/4 plus 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or 2-1/2 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar) 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (or 1-1/2 teaspoons regular soy sauce plus 1/2 teaspoon molasses) 2 tablespoons fish sauce 1 tablespoon canola oil, plus more for grilling

Put remaining ingredients in a food processor. Whirl into a semi-coarse puree. Pour over pork then use your hands to massage and coat the meat. Thread onto skewers, covering most of each skewer. (With 10-inch skewers, you will fill four or five of them.) Give each skewer a gentle squeeze so the pork hugs the skewer and retains its succulence during cooking. Set on a plate, cover, and marinate at room temperature for one hour. For best flavor, refrigerate skewers overnight or up to 24 hours; let sit at room temperature for 45 minutes to remove some of the chill before grilling.

To cook, prepare a medium-hot charcoal fire, preheat a gas grill to medium-high or use a stove-top grill pan heated over medium-high heat with a little oil brushed on. Right before grilling, brush oil on the skewers. Cook for about 12 minutes, turning frequently and basting with oil, until pork is slightly charred and done. Nick a piece to check. Briefly cool before sliding pork off the skewers. Keep as nuggets or thinly slice to better distribute in sandwiches.

Homemade Sriracha Mayonnaise

Pickled Radishes and Carrots

Ingredients

Ingredients

1 medium garlic clove, minced and mashed or pressed

8 ounces radishes, about 1-inch diameter

1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar 3 tablespoons sriracha chile sauce 1 large egg, near room temperature 1 cup canola oil

Preparation Put garlic, salt, vinegar, sriracha and egg into the food processor’s work bowl. Start processor and, after a creamy orange mixture forms (5-10 seconds), pour oil through the feed tube in a slow, steady stream as thin as angel hair pasta. Midway (after it begins to thicken), pour a slightly thicker stream. After about 2 minutes, all the oil should be incorporated. Your mayonnaise should be creamy and spreadable.

6 ounces fresh carrots, peeled 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 2 teaspoons plus 1/2 cup sugar 1-1/4 cup distilled white vinegar 1 cup lukewarm water

Preparation Slice radishes 1/8-inch thick. Cut carrots about 1/8-inch thick. Put vegetables in a bowl. Toss with salt and 2 teaspoons sugar. Massage and knead vegetables for 3 minutes, or until you can bend a slice of the radish or carrot and the tips touch without snapping. They will have lost about a quarter of their original volume.

Flush with running water, then drain in mesh strainer or colander. Press or shake to expel excess water, and transfer to a 4-cup jar.

For the brine, stir together the remaining 1/2-cup sugar with the vinegar and water until dissolved. Pour into the jar to cover vegetables well. Discard any excess brine. Use after 1 hour or refrigerate for up to a month.

Gina Reardon, former owner of Catering by Design and culinary philanthropist, leads the KC team for No Kid Hungry, culinary professionals and community members focused on supporting Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign. Funds raised help connect the nation’s 16 million low-income children with more school breakfast, lunch, and summer meals.

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HIGH END CABINETRY

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