Meghan Macy, MSN, FNP-C, NE
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Investment. By definition, it is the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources with the expectation of a worthwhile return. But in practice, it is the building blocks of a life well-lived. Whether we are pouring into our communities, our finances, or our personal growth, the things we choose to invest in ultimately shape the future of our lives.
Our priorities are the silent architects of our days. Whether we recognize it or not, we are constantly investing in the people, places and things that we place the most value in. For some, the focus is the sanctuary of the home or building a meaningful career; for others, it is the quiet, vital work of nurturing a family or prioritizing personal well-being. These day-to-day priorities are not just actions we take to keep our lives moving forward, they are the reflections of our deepest values.
While the ways we choose to invest may look different for everyone, the common thread is the hope of making a positive impact. This month’s issue explores various ways we can invest in our lives—whether by nurturing our community, investing in our homes, supporting local business owners or investing in ourselves by prioritizing the relationships that matter most.
We appreciate your support and investment each and every month, but specifically this one, we want to say thank you for reading and supporting. The Johnson County community is always a worthwhile place to invest. May we all be encouraged to consider how we can intentionally invest and carefully consider our priorities this season! Ephesians 2:8-9
NOLAN AND EVA WILLIAMS , PUBLISHER
@JOHNSONCOUNTYCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2026
PUBLISHER
Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Eva Williams | eva.williams@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Annalise Houghton
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
Historic Charm. Modern Memories.
Located in downtown Overland Park, Stone Manor on 79th is a one-of-a-kind space to host any special occasion! Housed in the historic Strang Line Car Barn built in 1908, the space offers warmth & character. The entire space has been fully renovated, including two bridal suites, while maintaining the beauty of its historical charm. This combination of character & convenience works effortlessly together to bring about an unparalleled atmosphere.
stonemanorkc.com | V@stonemanoron79th
Join us this spring as we introduce a vibrant new seasonal menu celebrating the freshness of locally sourced ingredients. Guided by the flavors of the season, Chef Swetha has created a lineup of dishes that showcase bright herbs, peak produce, and thoughtful technique.
The new menu features several exciting additions, including our house-made Gobi Focaccia, Crispy Calamari, and Caramelized Cabbage Salad, alongside heartier favorites like Lamb Dum Aloo and Cast Iron Cod. Each dish brings bold, fresh flavors to the table and captures the spirit of the season.
KC Outdoor Spaces continues to elevate outdoor living with expanded designbuild services, including custom pools, luxury hardscapes, decks, pergolas, pavilions, and full-scale landscaping. Known for crafting resort-style backyards, the company now offers enhanced high-end lawn and landscape maintenance packages tailored for discerning homeowners. With a seamless approach from concept to care, KC Outdoor Spaces remains a premier choice for creating and maintaining exceptional outdoor environments.
Scan to read more
Located in charming downtown Overland Park, KS, Stone Manor on 79th is a unique venue for special occasions. Set in the historic Strang Line Car Barn (built in 1908), it features natural stone walls, a wood-planked barrel ceiling, and crystal chandeliers. Fully renovated with modern conveniences—including two bridal suites—while preserving its timeless historic charm.
Scan to read more
The Spring Parade of Homes kicks-off on April 25 and there are 317 home entries in seven counties built by 96 of the KC area’s finest builders. Design trends include the return of elegant arched doorways, while bold lighting fixtures continue to serve as striking focal points. At the same time, richly colored rooms are gradually finding their place in modern design schemes, adding depth and personality to interiors.
Spring is a time for new beginnings — open windows, backyard play, and long neighborhood strolls. Imagine a home with room to roam, space to gather, and a yard ready for a game of fetch. The best homes aren’t just beautiful — they’re lived in, loved in, and shared with the companions who make every day brighter.
Spring clean with pet-safe, non-toxic products
Inspect fences & remove debris for a safe yard
Avoid toxic spring plants like lilies & tulips
Keep towels & mats near doors for muddy paws
Secure screens & doors for curious pets
Create shaded play areas & water stations
The love of a pet is a daily reminder that we are seen, known, and cherished — just as we are by God.
Join me each month as we explore how to live well, spread kindness, and make a difference—right here in Johnson County.
Celebrating the Love of our Pets
This month, we’re proud to spotlight Wayside Waifs — one of Kansas City’s largest and most impactful animal shelters. From fostering or adopting a new best friend, to volunteering your time or donating much-needed supplies, there are many ways you can make a difference. Because every pet deserves a place to call home!
If you would like to donate, I’m happy to coordinate porch pick-up of supplies throughout the month of April. Scan to learn more.
Realtor
M: 913.558.5958
O: 913.382.6711
haley.epps@compass.com
Renewing Your Space With Expert Renovations and Quality Workmanship.
Kitchen Remodeling
Bathroom Remodeling
Basement Remodeling
Residential Painting
Drywall
Cabinet Installation
JOHNSON COUNTY WINE WALK
Downtown Overland Park
SPRING BLOOM FESTIVAL
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Celebrate the arrival of spring with blooming flowers, garden tours, educational workshops, and family-friendly activities.
opkansas.org/arboretum
April 10th—12th 11th
LEAWOOD ARTISAN MARKET
Leawood City Park
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Shop handmade goods from local artisans including jewelry, home décor, gourmet foods, and more. Live music and food vendors on site.
leawood.org/events
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Sip and stroll through downtown shops while sampling wines from regional vineyards paired with small bites.
visitoverlandpark.com
FOOD TRUCK FRENZY
Leawood Town Center Plaza
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
A gathering of the region’s best food trucks offering diverse cuisines, craft beverages, and live entertainment.
towncenterplaza.com
May Weekends 16th 23rd 26th
EARTH DAY CELEBRATION
Kansas City Zoo & Swope Park
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Family-friendly Earth Day festivities with educational exhibits, eco-friendly vendors, and interactive activities.
kansascityzoo.org
May Weekends
SPRING GARDEN INSPIRATION WEEKEND
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Family Tree Nursery
This beloved local nursery is a destination for spring gardening inspiration. Throughout May, visitors can explore blooming displays, get landscaping advice from plant experts and discover new flowers, shrubs and patio décor for their gardens.
familytreenursery.com
SPRING SHOPPING & PATIO SEASON KICKOFF
Various Times Town Center Plaza
With warmer weather arriving, Town Center Plaza comes alive with patio dining, seasonal promotions and weekend pop-up events. Stroll the outdoor shopping district, enjoy brunch or happy hour and browse spring collections at local boutiques.
towncenterplaza.com
FIESTA KC –
CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION
Fri 4–9 PM, Sat 12–9 PM, Sun 12–6 PM
KC Wine Co
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo weekend at one of Johnson County’s most popular wineries. Fiesta KC brings live Latin music, margarita wine slushes, street tacos, contests and dancing to the vineyard. The lively outdoor atmosphere and scenic setting make it a perfect spring outing with friends.
kcwineco.com/festivals/fiesta
2nd
TACOS & MARGS CRAWL
Afternoon & Evening
Westport District, Kansas City
This festive bar crawl takes over the Westport neighborhood with margarita specials, taco tastings and DJ sets across participating venues. Guests hop between bars with an all-access wristband, making it a social, high-energy way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo weekend.
barcrawlnation.com/events/ kansas-city-tacos-margs-2026
9th
KANSAS CITY
CORPORATE CHALLENGE
HALF MARATHON & 10K
7:00 AM (Half), 7:30 AM (10K) Heritage Park Marina, Olathe Part of the region’s popular Corporate Challenge series, this race welcomes runners of all levels for scenic routes around Heritage Park. The event encourages workplace wellness and camaraderie with hundreds of participants representing companies across the metro.
kccorporatechallenge.com
9th
SECOND SATURDAY FOR KIDS
9:00 – 11:00 AM Park Place
Families gather in Barkley Square for this free monthly event filled with kid-friendly entertainment, music, games and themed activities. The lively fountains and open lawn make it an ideal spot for kids to play while parents explore nearby shops and restaurants.
parkplaceleawood.com
9th
80S MUSIC BINGO AT THE WINERY
2:00 – 5:00 PM
KC Wine Co
Dust off your leg warmers for an afternoon of nostalgic fun. Guests sip wine while playing bingo inspired by classic ‘80s hits—from Journey to Madonna—making it a relaxed social afternoon among the vines.
kcwineco.com/events
16th
TURKEY CREEK FESTIVAL
All Day
Antioch Park, Merriam
One of Johnson County’s most charming spring festivals, Turkey Creek features a pancake breakfast, 5K race, live music, artisan vendors and a kid zone. The setting at scenic Antioch Park makes it a perfect family day outdoors.
visitkc.com
STEMS: A GARDEN
7:00 – 10:00 PM (VIP entry at 6 PM) Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
This elegant outdoor garden party is one of the Arboretum’s most anticipated spring events. Guests enjoy tastings from top local restaurants, craft drinks, live music, art installations and entertainment while strolling through the gardens in peak bloom. The event supports public art initiatives and beloved Overland Park destinations.
artsandrec-op.org/stems 16th
This Longtime Family-Owned Business Can Help Owners Make Choices To Fit Their Home
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABUHI NOVRUZOV
One of the easiest ways to refresh a room's look is to update the window treatments. New blinds, shutters, or draperies can adjust the lighting in the space and emphasize the decor already in place. This is a high-impact renovation with options that can be easily tailored to your budget.
“I stay up to date on trends and styles with multiple training courses completed throughout each year.”
Budget Blinds of Overland Park/Leawood is a great place to start. This full-service company offers everything from blinds, shades, shutters, and drapes. They also install motorized window treatments and shading for outdoor living spaces. Accent touches, such as pillows in all sizes, custom bedding, and valances, are also available.
On a recent project, design consultant Morgan Grafton helped some Bucyrus homeowners with custom soft treatments to enhance their newly built home and control light. They had worked with Budget Blinds in the past, and their interior designer, Abraham Colone of Atelier Colone LLC, suggested they browse the showroom's vast selection.
Grafton has four years of experience with Budget Blinds and a passion for continued learning in the field. She says, "I stay up to date on trends and styles
with multiple training courses completed throughout each year, and I have also attended and completed the Inspired Drapes Drapery School."
The Bucyrus homeowners' final choices included draperies accented with sheers and a few roman shades to complement the home's minimalist contemporary look and bohemian accents. The entire project took 12 weeks from initial contact to final install.
Budget Blinds of Overland Park/Leawood is a small business backed by a large organization. The company has been in business since 2002 and is owned by Jim and Debbie Stoddard. They offer 15 brands of window coverings in a wide array of styles, budgets and applications. They also provide the best warranty in the business, with five years, no questions asked, on most of their products.
“It all started as a small four-person business in the basement of my grandparents’ house and has grown to almost ten employees and two storefronts.”
Courtney Stoddard Laufketter, vice president of sales and marketing, says, "It all started as a small four-person business in the basement of my grandparents' house and has grown to almost ten employees and two storefronts."
Homeowners can browse in the Budget Blinds showrooms, or they will come to your home or office with samples and ideas for your windows. They measure and provide an estimate on the spot. That price includes the services of their
professional installation team. Then, the typical turnaround is approximately six weeks from order to installation for most blinds and shades, while shutters and draperies take a little longer. Budget Blinds of Overland Park/Leawood is located at 7250 W 151st Street in Overland Park. Homeowners can check out their offerings and request a free in-home or virtual visit at budgetblinds.com/overlandpark/ . Or call 913-402-1600 for more information.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
At some point in midlife, many people begin asking quiet but powerful questions. Is this still the life I want? What would it look like to follow the things that truly light me up? For Lauren Beeman, those questions did not arrive gently. They came all at once, in a season of profound loss and reflection that ultimately led her to redefine her career and her sense of purpose.
For 25 years, Beeman worked at Hallmark Cards as a creative brand strategist. The first two decades, she says, were magical.
“I was surrounded by wildly talented creatives, part of an inspired goal, making a difference, and it was fun,” Beeman recalls. But in the final years, something shifted. “The culture changed.”
At the same time, life outside the office was unraveling. In the span of a year, she lost her father, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, her beloved dog passed away, and she faced her own health challenges. Sitting alone in her office, she found herself confronting a question she could no longer ignore.
“I remember thinking, Is this it? Is this my legacy?” she says. “And I heard a very clear internal ‘No.’”
On the 25th anniversary of her career at Hallmark, and the same year she turned 50, Beeman chose to retire early. “It felt poetic and incredibly freeing,” she says. “I didn’t have a
polished plan. I just knew I wanted a life that felt inspired, joyful, and fulfilled.”
The surprising seed of that next chapter had been growing quietly for years around her own dinner table.
Beeman was known among friends for her Saturday night gatherings. She would begin cooking in the morning and continue until guests arrived to a table overflowing with food and conversation.
“Just come over was basically my love language,” she says with a laugh.
It was a friend who first named what Beeman had never considered a passion. “She said, ‘Lauren, you cook from morning until night. You forget to check your phone. You’re completely in the zone.’”
Another friend offered a comment that would change everything: “People would pay for this.”
“I remember lying awake that night thinking about it,” Beeman says. “People would pay for my food and creating a table where everyone feels at home? That was the first time it clicked that maybe the thing I loved most wasn’t just a hobby. Maybe it was a calling.”
Still, stepping away from a successful corporate career carried real fear. The loss of a steady salary was daunting, even with a financial plan in place. More intimidating was the simple fact that she had no idea how to build a modern media brand.
“I didn’t know how to start a blog, let alone monetize a website,” she says. “I didn’t know SEO, analytics, food photography, or that people could make a living on social media.”
So she did what many reinvention stories require. She began anyway.
“I did a lot of praying and meditating,” Beeman says. “I kept feeling this steady sense of freedom and joy. So instead of trying to figure everything out, I just took action.”
She learned through online courses, trial and error, and a willingness to experiment. Her Instagram audience slowly grew to nearly 100,000 followers. She began hosting private dinner parties and teaching cooking classes.
Then, at one of her early gatherings, a respected food writer attended. At the end of the evening, the guest leaned over and said, “I have the perfect collaboration for you. I know a company looking for an influencer and brand ambassador. You’d be perfect.”
That introduction became Beeman’s first client.
Looking back, she now sees the unique value creators bring to modern brands. “When a brand hires someone like me, they get the content creator, the audience, the editor, the stylist, the spokesperson, all in one person,” she explains. “In the corporate world, that would require an agency, talent, editors, and a full production team.”
Since then, opportunities have unfolded in ways she never could have predicted. Brand partnerships, television segments, media features, and even travel experiences have followed.
“Sometimes the life waiting for you is bigger than the one you imagine,” she says. For Beeman, the emotional difference between her past and present work is unmistakable.
“This business is my baby,” she says. “Every recipe, every post, every partnership comes from my heart and soul. And the freedom to work when and where I want is dreamy.”
“When a brand hires someone like me, they get the content creator, the audience, the editor, the stylist, the spokesperson, all in one person.”
Perhaps the most surprising transformation has been internal. Rather than feeling like a chapter is closing, Beeman says midlife has opened the door to her most energized season yet.
“I have never felt younger, smarter, more content, or more aligned with my life purpose,” she says. “I still have big dreams. I’m not winding down. I’m building up.”
Her advice for anyone quietly considering their own reinvention is simple.
“You can be afraid and move forward,” she says. “Ask yourself: what can you do for hours and never get bored? What makes you forget to check your phone? What makes time disappear? That is a clue.”
You do not have to abandon everything overnight, she adds. “Just start doing a little more of that thing every day. You never know where it will take you.”
After all, the path to reinvention often begins the same way Beeman’s did. Not with a perfect plan, but with a spark of curiosity and the courage to follow it.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
In downtown Shawnee, Kansas, two cocktail bars sit side by side, each with its own personality but sharing the same creative spirit. Behind both is Jay Sanders, an award winning mixologist whose approach to drinks is equal parts craft, curiosity, and hospitality.
Sanders opened Drastic Measures in 2019 after leaving the acclaimed Kansas City bar Manifesto. At the time, he and his partners were simply looking for a place of their own. Shawnee was not necessarily the original plan, but meeting building owners Derick and Shelley Shackelford changed everything. The couple eventually became partners, helping turn a simple idea into a neighborhood destination.
The name Drastic Measures came from a long list of possibilities in Sanders’ phone notes. It felt right for a bar that planned to do something a little unexpected in a quieter corner of the metro. The result is a cozy cocktail spot that draws crowds with inventive drinks and a relaxed neighborhood vibe.
A few years later, the concept next door began to take shape. Wild Child opened in 2023, sparked by a moment Sanders still remembers clearly. A guest once asked if a cocktail could be made without alcohol but wanted it kept quiet because she had just learned she was pregnant and was not ready to share the news with her friends. The request stuck with him. Sanders realized the bar should offer thoughtful non alcoholic options so no guest would ever feel uncomfortable ordering a drink that suited them.
Wild Child grew from that idea. Today the bar offers a full menu of cocktails and wine alongside carefully crafted mocktails that receive just as much attention as the spirits based drinks. Sanders says creating non alcoholic options that truly feel special is actually the harder challenge, which is exactly why the team puts so much care into them.
Despite their proximity, the two bars have distinct personalities. Drastic Measures leans toward playful, creative cocktails. One of its most famous is the Kill Bill, a spicy ginger drink that began as a happy accident when Sanders tried to use up extra ingredients. It quickly became the bar’s top seller and a fan favorite.
Wild Child feels a little different. The drinks are just as imaginative, but the space celebrates choice and inclusivity, welcoming everyone whether they drink alcohol or not.
Sanders describes his own cocktail style as a mix of nostalgia and bold flavor. Inspiration might come from food, a color, a name, or even childhood memories. His tasting notes are famously unconventional. Think Play Doh, cut grass, or the inside of a Halloween mask. They may not sound fancy, but they capture something real.
Awards and nominations, including multiple nods from the James Beard Foundation, have brought national attention. Still, Sanders insists the real goal is simple.
When guests walk out the door, he hopes they leave knowing they were genuinely welcome. That, and that they had a great drink along the way.
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Most people hang a painting because it speaks to them, not because they think it will grow in value. Art is often admired, but rarely considered an investment. Yet for those willing to approach it with both care and intention, collecting fine art can offer something few other assets can: daily enjoyment paired with long-term potential.
Eva Reynolds, owner of Eva Reynolds Fine Art Gallery, has spent more than three decades guiding collectors at every stage. She often reminds clients that art offers a return long before it ever appreciates in value.
“Art is one of the only investments that enriches you long before it appreciates,” Reynolds says. “If you buy a piece you love, it will pay dividends to you every day for the rest of your life.”
Artwork changes the atmosphere of a home. It becomes part of the morning light in a hallway, the backdrop to dinner conversations, the image children grow up seeing every day. Over time, it weaves itself into family history. Even if the market fluctuates, the owner still lives with something beautiful and meaningful. When
appreciation does occur, it becomes an added benefit to something that has already delivered years of enjoyment.
From a financial standpoint, fine art also provides diversification. It does not always move in tandem with traditional markets. For seasoned investors who understand the value of spreading risk across asset classes, that independence can be appealing. The key, Reynolds notes, is discernment.
When evaluating an artist with potential for growth, she looks for trajectory and consistency. Is the artist actively exhibiting? Do they have consistent gallery representation? Are they producing a cohesive body of work? Is their work entering corporate or permanent collections? Timing matters as well. Entering an artist’s market before institutional validation can present significant upside, but not all emerging artists are investment grade. Professional guidance can help separate momentum from mere trends.
The question of heart versus head inevitably arises. Should collectors buy what they love or what they believe will increase in value?
“IF YOU BUY A PIECE YOU LOVE, IT WILL PAY DIVIDENDS TO YOU EVERY DAY FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE.”
“It’s both,” Reynolds says. “The heart chooses. The head confirms.” If someone buys strictly for profit and the market shifts, they may be left with a piece that brings little personal satisfaction. On the other hand, buying purely on emotion without understanding the broader context can lead to missed signals. Reynolds encourages what she calls informed passion. Fall in love with the work first. Then collect thoughtfully, build slowly, and keep strong records. When love and research align, collecting becomes both meaningful and strategic.
Working with a trusted gallery is especially important in an unregulated market. Unlike stocks or real estate, the art world
runs largely on relationships, reputation, and knowledge. A reputable gallery helps protect authenticity, maintain stable pricing, and steward the long term legacy of the artist. It also guides collectors away from overpaying, purchasing weaker examples, or chasing speculation that can undermine value.
At Eva Reynolds Fine Art Gallery, collecting is approached as a partnership rather than a transaction. First time buyers are educated about pricing, terminology, and market dynamics so they feel confident rather than intimidated. Long time collectors rely on ongoing advice about when and how to add to their collections. Great collections, Reynolds says, are built carefully over time and often become part of a family’s legacy.
The opportunity can be particularly compelling with regional and emerging artists. When an artist is early in their career, the broader market has not yet fully priced in their potential. Entry points tend to be more accessible. There is also something rewarding about supporting an artist in the formative chapters of their story.
Over the years, Reynolds has represented artists whose work has appreciated 100 to 500 percent. She is quick to note that such returns are never guaranteed. Still, she has seen firsthand how thoughtful collecting, guided by expertise, can lead to both personal and financial reward.
One artist whose career illustrates the power of quality and legacy is Mark English. English began as one of the most awarded
illustrators in American history, creating work for publications such as TIME and Sports Illustrated, before transitioning into fine art. His paintings are now held in major private and corporate collections, including the Smithsonian Institution.
Reynolds worked with English for more than 20 years. Since his recent passing, collectors have viewed his work through a different lens. With the body of work now finite, demand has increased. “When a master passes, there is often a shift from inventory to legacy,” Reynolds explains. Supply and demand take on new meaning.
English’s enduring appeal lies in his storytelling. He painted remembered landscapes and dreamlike figures, layering texture and soft edges to create a sense of atmosphere. Viewers do not simply observe his paintings. They step into them.
Closer to home, Reynolds is energized by the strength of regional talent. Sculptor Tom Corbin continues to produce
refined figurative bronze work that feels as vital today as it did decades ago. Painter Dan Vanderhoof, a protégé of Mark English, brings bold color and confidence to his canvases. Jan Gaumnitz, a cornerstone of the Lawrence arts community since the 1960s, continues to explore new materials and ideas at 90, moving fluidly between painting, sculpture, photography, and printmaking.
For collectors considering their first purchase or their next acquisition, Reynolds offers simple guidance. Buy what moves you. Do the research. Partner with professionals who think long term. Investment in art is not only about financial gain. It is about living with beauty, supporting creative talent, and building a collection that reflects both taste and intention. When done thoughtfully, art becomes more than décor. It becomes a lasting asset, financially and personally, woven into the story of a home and the legacy of a family.
An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.
Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
One of Overland Park’s most beloved spring fundraisers will arrive earlier next year Stems: A Garden Soirée, the signature event supporting the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens and Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, will move to May in 2026, offering guests a chance to celebrate while the gardens are in full spring bloom.
Organizers say the shift allows the event to better match the natural beauty of the season. Late spring brings vibrant color, comfortable evening temperatures, and a renewed excitement for spending time outdoors. Guests can expect a relaxed atmosphere as they stroll garden paths, sip beverages, enjoy live music, and dine among the flowers.
The earlier date also helps the event stand apart from a busy summer calendar. With the region preparing to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the metro area, organizers say “blooming early” gives Stems its own moment to shine before large scale summer events take center stage.
Visually, the gardens will offer a lush spring backdrop. Beds of colorful annuals such as snapdragons, pansies, osteospermum, dianthus, and calendula will be in bloom. Spring bulbs including alliums, late tulips, and daffodils will add height and drama. Depending on the season’s warmth, guests may also see pink peonies blooming near Margaret’s Pond and bright red poppies in the Arboretum’s Monet Garden. Early summer perennials such as salvia, catmint, and baptisia will add layered texture across the landscape.
While longtime traditions remain, several new experiences will debut in 2026. A large main stage returns to the gardens with a performance by the high energy band Funk Syndicate. Guests can also encounter a fashion sketch artist capturing garden party outfits as custom keepsakes.
A popular Stems tradition will return as well: hand painted souvenir wine glasses. This year, 15 local artists will create designs ranging from butterflies and wildflowers to colorful abstract patterns, giving guests a unique glass to carry throughout the evening.
New for 2026, a silent auction will feature experience based items tied to community spaces. Bidders may compete for exclusive photography sessions at the Arboretum or the Farmstead, or even collect a full set of the hand painted Stems glasses.
Food and drink remain central to the experience. Restaurants from across the Kansas City metro will offer small plates designed to match the garden setting. Returning favorites include Bo Lings, JINYA Ramen Bar, Zephyr Bourbon Bar + Kitchen, and Taco Naco KC, along with newcomer Tiki Taco. Guests can expect a wide range of flavors, from street tacos and crispy beef to delicate desserts.
Entertainment will be woven throughout the gardens with multiple bands, roaming performers, and playful experiences like balloon artists and tarot readings. The evening concludes with a fireworks display over the illuminated landscape.
Stems is the signature fundraiser for the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Foundation, supporting projects and programming at both the Arboretum and Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Proceeds help sustain fundraising efforts, partnerships, and behind the scenes operations that bring educational programs, garden enhancements, and community experiences to life.
Organizers hope guests leave with more than just a memorable evening.
“The night is designed to nourish both the senses and the community,” organizers say. “Every ticket helps support the spaces and programs people love across Overland Park.”
Stems is a 21+ event. Tickets are available at stemssoiree.org , with early bird pricing available through April 1.
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On 64 acres in Olathe, a visionary development is taking shape that promises to redefine what inclusion looks like in the Midwest. At the center of it all is Michael’s Wonder World, an ultra-inclusive, all abilities theme park designed so that all people, including children and adults with special needs can experience the joy of play without barriers. Surrounding it will be a state-of-the-art sports arena, an accessible hotel, restaurants and retail, all thoughtfully designed to serve families who are too often overlooked in traditional developments.
Michael’s Wonder World is more than a park. It is a fully inclusive environment where rides are wheelchair accessible, sensory considerations are built into the design, and families navigating complex medical or developmental needs can relax instead of constantly planning for obstacles. Admission for individuals with disabilities will be free, ensuring that cost is not another barrier to joy.
Directly across from the park will stand the Halo Care Collective at Halo Ridge, a collaborative hub bringing medical providers, therapists, nonprofit organizations and family support services together under one roof. If the park represents celebration and recreation, the Collective represents care, coordination and long term support for the entire family.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
James Arkell, son in law of Lamar Hunt Jr., has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. But he is quick to point out that Halo Ridge is not about one family name. It is about community.
“This was built by the people, for the people,” Arkell says. “No matter who you are, you can bring something to the table. We’re not asking for a lot. We’re asking, what can you give?”
Halo Ridge is specifically designed for families with special needs, particularly those caring for children or adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Today, these families often juggle appointments scattered across the metro. A dental specialist may be in one city, an adaptive equipment provider in another, a therapist somewhere else entirely. Every trip requires equipment, time off work and careful coordination.
Arkell explains, “This is about making it convenient and accessible. And by keeping whole families healthier, that’s better for everyone.”
The Halo Care Collective will bring together optometry, dentistry, occupational and physical therapy, durable medical equipment
providers, mental health professionals and much more. Families will be able to schedule multiple services in one location. Siblings will have access to counseling and support groups. Parents will find financial planning and legal resources, including pro bono guidance on guardianship and disability related planning that can otherwise cost thousands of dollars.
Approximately 75 percent of the first floor will be shared, welcoming space. There will be classrooms for peer mentoring and certifications, a comfortable reception area, and a café style gathering space that doubles as a job training kitchen lab. The goal is to make families feel supported, not sidelined in sterile waiting rooms.
The building itself has been secured through a generous lease arrangement with Karbank Real Estate. Even with reduced rental rates for clinical partners, significant fundraising is required to cover operational costs and allow nonprofit organizations to occupy space at little to no charge. The Halo Care Collective operates as a 501(c)(3), and donations are tax deductible.
Corporate partners are stepping forward. Private donors are contributing. But Arkell believes the long-term sustainability of Halo Ridge depends on broad community participation.
“There aren’t as many seven and eight figure gifts as there used to be,” he explains. “We need smaller gifts that can be repetitive. Your $20 a month matters. There’s no gift too big and no gift too small. It’s a great opportunity for people who want to give and want to make sure the money is benefitting a number of charities rather than just one.”
Naming opportunities and legacy giving structures are available throughout the park, arena and care hub. At the same time, monthly contributions from families, local businesses and individuals will form the backbone of ongoing operations and hardship grants for families who need financial assistance for services, travel or equipment.
The impact will extend well beyond special needs families. The adjacent sports arena is projected to host tournaments and events that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The accessible hotel will provide accommodations tailored to families traveling with medical equipment. Retailers and restaurants throughout the corridor will benefit from increased traffic. Johnson County will feel the economic ripple effect.
Yet at its heart, this is about dignity.
“We want it to be something for everyone,” Arkell says. “We don’t want to focus simply on the individual. These are families. By helping one, we can’t leave the others behind.”
Kansas City has always prided itself on strong civic partnerships and generous philanthropy. Halo Ridge offers an opportunity to invest not only in growth, but in compassion. It is a chance to create a place where children with special needs can play freely, where parents can access coordinated care, and where siblings feel seen and supported.
For those looking to make a meaningful investment in the future of our community, Halo Ridge is an invitation. Whether through corporate sponsorship and giving, legacy giving or a modest monthly donation, every contribution helps build a more inclusive Kansas City.
To learn how to get involved, email info@michaelswonderworld.com and discover how you can be part of bringing this extraordinary vision to life.
