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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Editor Here we are at the start of another year, and as I reflect on this past year, I have a feeling of gratitude for the people in my life who surround me. We all have years that are better than others, and when January rolls around, it is always a good time to reset and reflect. For me personally, this was a tough year in some areas of my life, and it was a beautiful year in other areas. My hope is that I can take lessons from both the good and bad, and grow as a person from those experiences. I used to be a sucker for self-help books. Whether it was for wisdom about parenting or working on my own personal goals, I have always enjoyed reading about what others have discovered as useful or powerful in their own journey. One of my favorite books from that genre is Atomic Habits by James Clear. It is chock full of practical nuggets on how to reach your full potential and how the simple moments and small things we do every day influence our lives over time. The notion of either getting 1% better every day or 1% worse adds up to a lot over a lifetime, and has an enormous impact on who we could be and who we actually are. As Clear says, “All big things come from small beginnings. The seed of every habit is a single, tiny decision. But as that decision is repeated, a habit sprouts and grows stronger.” We can apply that principle to any area of our life whether it has to do with how we eat, how we treat people, how we exercise, our sleep habits or what we put into our relationships. The start of a new year is a good time to remind ourselves about what is important to us that we want to continue to cultivate and is also a great time to reflect on anything that we want to change. I hope you all have blessings coming to you this year, and whether big or small, you feel support and love from those around you. Love,

January 2025 PUBLISHER

Cristine Lindholm | Cristine.Lindholm@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Lauren Powers, Victoria Moore C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Janie Jones, Becca Spears

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CTO Ajay Krishnan VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @ J O H N S O N C O U N T YC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 5 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

12 32

Featured

12 24 32

On the Cover

Healthy Dining In KC

Whole Harvest Kitchen

Mavericks in Motion A New Way to Workout

Kansas City-based mobile fitness tool “Fit Truk” makes the gym accessible to all Photography: Janie Jones Photography

Departments 6

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Must See TRAVEL

Athlete Life LIFE + CULTURE

How To HEALTH + WELLNESS

Healthy Lifestyle WELLNESS

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

Trend Setter LIFE + CULTURE

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JANUARY 2025

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

The Overland Park Farmer’s Market ready for major expansion Construction for a $34 million dollar expansion project for the Overland Park Pavilion and Farmer’s Market is underway. The city is leading and supporting this project to enhance the area’s offerings including an indoor pavilion for year-round use, permanent shade structures, bathroom access, improvement to area streets and the clock tower and access to parking on non market days.

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Catholic Charities celebrates its 51st annual Snow Ball Carry the season of giving into the New Year. Support the 51st Annual Snow Ball benefiting Catholic Charities Foundation of Northeast Kansas by making a financial gift or attending the event on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Overland Park Convention Center. Ninety-one cents of every dollar raised through Snow Ball helps Catholic Charities provide more than 30 life-changing programs serving over 70,000 individuals. For more information visit snowballgala.org.

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ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

Healthy Dining

In KC

Dining out and not being able to find healthy options is a thing of the past, as most restaurants provide options for dietary restrictions and offer healthy alternatives to traditional dishes. Whether it is gluten- free, vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, paleo or mediterranean there are many restaurants and cafes that exclusively offer a variety of delicious options that don’t sacrifice taste and texture.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

MODERN MARKET

WHOLE HARVEST

At Modern Market Eatery everything is made from scratch with real, whole, sustainable ingredients. Chef’s and Protein Bowls, Salads and Sandwiches, Soups and Pizza are all inspired by the bright, colorful, flavorful fare of the farmers market. CORINTH SQUARE 4046 W 83RD ST, PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS MODERNMARKET.COM/

This vegan, full-service restaurant makes every dish from scratch and uses only the best ingredients. The flavors are surprisingly rich and offer a wide variety of plantbased options from starters, salads, pizzas, pastas, tacos, burgers and more. Don’t forget to top it off with a dessert. The truffles are to die for and have a complex, rich and creamy texture. 4853 W 117TH ST LEAWOOD, KS 66211 WHOLEHARVESTKITCHEN.COM/

CAFE GRATITUDE

PROTEINHOUSE Protein House nurtures and supports those who strive for a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you are looking for the nutritious building blocks of a great physique or you have adopted a clean-eating lifestyle, they provide a fast-casual environment with delicious menu items. 1345 MAIN ST KANSAS CITY, MO 64105 6801 W. 135TH STREET OVERLAND PARK, KS 66223 PROTEIN-HOUSE.COM/

100% Organic, 100% Plant-Based, 100% Love Step inside Cafe Gratitude’s ‘generous’ and ‘grateful’ establishment while being nourished by gourmet plant-based meals. The clever and affirming menu names include dishes such as, “I am transformed” (tacos), “I am terrific” (pad thai), “I am fullfilled” (mac-n-cheese), and “I am bold-loving tasty” (BLT). THE CROSSROADS 333 SOUTHWEST BLVD KANSAS CITY, MO CAFEGRATITUDEKC.COM/

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BILLIE’S GROCERY Known for its gluten-free bakery and dairy-free desserts in addition to the organic ingredient, nutrient-dense menu options, this Kansas City treasure is a fan favorite in the KC health community. Offering a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options at both the downtown and Leawood locations, this is a must-try on your healthy cafe list. 3216 GILLHAM PLAZA SUITE 100, KANSAS CITY, MO 3614 WEST 95TH ST, LEAWOOD, KS BILLIESGROCERY.COM/LOCATION/LEAWOOD/

MEDDY'S

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN True Food Kitchen offers superfood dishes that revolve around in-season ingredients and boast delicious lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch offerings. Their extensive menu offers everything from juice drinks to grass-fed burgers, and grain bowls to a wide variety of appetizers and cocktails. THE COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA 4749 PENNSYLVANIA AVE, KANSAS CITY, MO TRUEFOODKITCHEN.COM/LOCATIONS/KANSASCITY/

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Enjoy the guilt-free Lebanese-Mediterranean selections in Meddy’s modern interior and exterior environment. Try everything from their daily made from scratch creamy hummus, tender shawamas, flown in fresh daily salmon, fresh pita, and signature cocktails. 4105 W 83RD ST, PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS 66208 8810 MAURER RD, LENEXA, KS 66219 MEDDYS.COM/

THE RUSSELL

MATTIE’S FOOD

Think comfort food meets plant based dining. Everything from biscuits and gravy, mac-n-cheese to brisket sandwiches, this full vegan menu doesn’t disappoint. Offering breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch as well as incredible dessert options, the menu is diverse and has something for everyone. They offer catering, dine-in and carry out, so visit this family-owned restaurant for a healthy alternative to comfort food. EAST BROOKSIDE 633 E. 63RD STREET, SUITE 110 KANSAS CITY, MO 64110 MATTIESFOODS.COM/

This Midtown gem serves locally sourced produce and cooks on an open fire. Offering a full menu of sustainable ingredients, and a variety of healthy and flavorful menu items, this is a great location for a work meeting or a lunch date. Open from 11-4 and offering catering options, this impressive menu is sure to impress. MIDTOWN 3141 MAIN ST, KANSAS CITY, MO THERUSSELLONMAIN.COM/

THE HUNGRY HATCH

ENJOY PURE FOOD + DRINK Sourcing only organic or wild-caught protein and produce, come enjoy a variety of gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and organic options. They offer plant-rich, highly nutritious meals, raw and organic cold-pressed juices, and craft cocktails as well as delicious smoothies and bowls. Check out their new Lenexa location. 10573 MISSION RD, LEAWOOD, KS 66206 8729 SCARBOROUGH ST, LENEXA, KS 66219 ENJOYPUREFOOD.COM/

This local favorite is a healthy twist on your favorite street foods. Whether you’re gluten or dairy-free, Mediterranean, paleo, Whole 30, vegan, or vegetarian, this downtown fast-casual eatery is a local favorite for bowls, wraps, tacos, and salads. Customize these healthy street food options as you see fit and enjoy flavors inspired from around the globe. CITY MARKET 23 E 3RD STREET KANSAS CITY, MO THEHUNGRYHATCH.COM/

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Where Urban Meets Rustic Nestled on 42 acres along the banks of the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado, sits a quaint little town, South Main, developed by Zed Shelby. Discovered while on a kayaking trip, Shelby, a former professional kayaker, envisioned an urban space in a rural setting, with a walkable neighborhood, treelined streets and accessibility to everything within walking distance. Zed and his sister, Katie, bought the property in 2003, and while there was skepticism that the area could be developed successfully from developers that approached, Zed and Katie disagreed and decided to take the project on themselves. Without any experience in developing, but an entrepreneurial spirit, they hired a civil engineer and project manager and began to research all of their favorite cities around the world and what made them special. From the architecture of buildings to the ideal space of the width of streets to how far apart to plant trees, Shelby took notes on the best towns to emulate. Towns such as Seaside, Aspen, areas in France and New Orleans, to name a few, were considered to gather information and inspired influence over creating the perfect walkable town for this stretch of urban space along the banks of the river. Now with his wife, Kennley, Shelby continues to develop South Main with new and exciting lodging options

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

M UST SE E | TRAVEL

and visitor experiences that provide everything you may need at your fingertips to experience the adventure and beauty that Buena Vista has to offer. What is coined as New Urbanism, placemakers create new places for people to congregate to make memories, spend time together and enjoy the area without the need to go very far. South Main is heavily influenced by the architecture of New Orleans— the Creole style, which melds french, spanish and caribbean architecture influences. Everything was selected and designed very thoughtfully to create a quaint town that offers world-class waves, as the Arkansas River that hugs Buena Vista is one of the most commercially rafted rivers in the country. What sets this stretch of river apart is that it has been carefully engineered to create a surfing experience, as visitors can quite literally surf the waves, or if that is too action-packed for their liking, they can spend a day enjoying the banks of the river watching people surf while hiking the surrounding trails.

photo by Mark Skovorodko

South Main offers multiple lodging options for visitors to enjoy. The Chateau, which is the original part of the property, consists of 20 rooms and is a picture-esque nod to a fairytale atmosphere. Adorned with vines, flowers and a natural canopy of aspen leaves, the arched walkway is the perfect setting for a wedding or to enjoy the beauty of both the architecture and the surrounding mountains and naturistic sound of the Arkansas river rushing through. Other lodging options as part of South Main include the Surf Hotel which consists of 62 rooms and has a whole vibe of its own. Consistent with the New Orleansstyle architecture each room is gorgeously designed with divine, charming detail right down to every light fixture, door knob and linen choice. The rooms have expansive windows

photos by Mark Skovorodko

and a fully walk-out balcony. The wrap-around, walk-out balconies are fully open all around the entire hotel, and provide oversized rocking chairs that overlook the river and boast 360 views of the surrounding mountains. For family accommodations, they offer flats that house anywhere from 2 to 13 people and include full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, laundry rooms, family rooms and balconies with mountain views. These expansive spaces give a feeling for guests of a home away from home and come equipped with anything visitors may need during their stay. These private residences are located right in the heart of town in South Main where guests can walk to nearby stores, restaurants, coffee shops, or enjoy a concert on the lawn outside the Surf Hotel, eat at the renowned farm-to-table restaurant, Wesley & Rose, located inside the Surf Hotel, or have a cocktail by the fireplace inside the Surf Hotel. The best part of this walkable town is that it lacks the traffic and congestion of other mountain towns but has the perfect amount of charm of an urban town. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

photo by Mark Skovorodko

Photos by Brandon Lopez

M UST SE E | TRAVEL

This space is beautiful to take in year round as while Buena Vista does get snow in the winter, due to being nestled in the valley surrounded by mountains, the weather is more temperate and the area gets a lighter dusting than typical Colorado towns. It is the perfect location for a getaway any time of the year. While adventures on the river for whitewater rafting, kayaking or hiking the beautiful Colorado landscape is perfect for warmer months, they are also known for their many hot springs and proximity to ski resorts without the hustle and bustle of a ski town. Located only 30 minutes from Monarch ski resort, which is locally-owned and known for its family-friendly slopes, it is the perfect way to enjoy a day of skiing, cross country skiing or soak in the natural hot springs. Take in the scenery on your private balcony or sit by the fireplace in the Surf Hotel and enjoy a cocktail at the bar. Wesley & Rose can accommodate both small dinner parties or large, including a private dining room that can seat 30. They are also known for their Sunday brunch which serves a variety of deductible offerings. In addition to providing the perfect vacation destination, South Main is also known for hosting boutique weddings as the location has everything from location for the ceremony, lodging accommodations, and an ivy ballroom perfect for a large indoor reception or the expansive lawn for an outdoor venue if desired. They also host many corporate retreats and can accommodate large groups to spread out for meetings, team building activities, guest speakers and stunning accommodations. Coming this spring, The Surf House will be available for booking and includes high-end apartment-style living with a stunning view in every room. They all include a fireplace, a walkout balcony, clawfoot tubs, multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, laundry room and more. These spaces are also perfect for bridal parties as the units include a changing room for the bride.

Photos by Brandon Lopez

CONTINUED >

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M UST SE E | TRAVEL

Photos by Brandon Lopez

Although there is everything you need in South Main, the town of Buena Vista boasts a charming old town area that is filled with shops, restaurants and cafes. For outdoor enthusiasts, activities available include bike trails, rock climbing, white water rafting, kayaking, hiking trails of all levels of difficulty, cross country skiing, surfing the river, or soaking in the hot springs. And the best part about traveling to Buena Vista, is that it is an easy drive from Denver with easy, direct highway access. Buena Vista, which used to be the best kept secret, has been discovered. While it offers a quiet getaway that doesn’t have the commercialism and crowded experience of Vail or Estes Park, the word is out, and it is starting to grow into one of the best little Colorado getaways that can offer whatever you are looking for- a serene, peaceful experience, or an action-packed, Colorado adventure. The breathtaking mountain views coupled with the stunning accommodations will not disappoint and is the perfect backdrop to your next mountain vacation. To book a stay or for more information, visit surfhotel.com/

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

M AV E R I C K S IN MOTION

ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS

AT H LE T E LIF E | L I FE + C U LT U RE

In the heartland of America, where the Chiefs and Royals dominate the sports landscape, a fresh contender is carving out its place in Kansas City’s athletic lineup: the Kansas City Mavericks. This hockey team is more than slapshots and power plays; it’s a story of community, transformation, and the love of the game.

The Mavericks are proving that hockey—and community—has a home in Kansas City. When Lamar Hunt Jr. and James Arkell started this adventure, it wasn’t just a business venture. It was a mission to grow hockey in Kansas City. Lamar Hunt Jr., who saw the potential in a minor league hockey team often overshadowed by the city's larger franchises. Their vision? To turn the Mavericks into a cornerstone of Kansas City's sports culture. The Mavericks started their journey as Kansas City's best-kept secret, but the team’s focus has always extended beyond the ice. From day one, Hunt and Arkell and his team prioritized youth development. The Kansas City Youth Hockey Association became a cornerstone of their efforts, growing by 10% annually and fostering young athletes while cultivating a devoted fan base. When the pandemic forced a pause, the Mavericks saw an opportunity for reinvention. They overhauled their management, bringing in seasoned

professionals with experience from major franchises like the Kansas City Chiefs. The result? A polished operation that rivals the professionalism of the toptier ECHL teams. What truly sets the Mavericks apart is their unwavering commitment to community engagement. Each month, the team partners with a different local charity, dedicating time, resources, and funds to causes that matter most to Kansas Citians. From supporting literacy through their Max Power Play reading program to rallying behind local initiatives, the Mavericks have seamlessly blended hockey with heart. Their games are more than sporting events; they’re community celebrations. Theme nights like Star Wars Night and Christmas Vacation Night transform the arena into an immersive experience, where families and fans of all ages can find something to love. Even those unfamiliar with hockey leave as fans of CONTINUED >

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AT H LE T E LIF E | L I FE + C U LT U RE

“Sports have the power to bring people together,” Arkell says, “and we want to create spaces where everyone feels included.”

the energy, camaraderie, and sheer fun of a Mavericks game. The Mavericks’ most ambitious project is a game-changer—an ultra-accessible sports and entertainment complex inspired by Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio. This facility will be designed to welcome everyone, including individuals with special needs, offering a oneof-a-kind experience with an arena, theme park, and hotel. For Arkell and his family, this isn’t just a new venture; it’s a reflection of their mission to ensure inclusivity is at the forefront of everything they do. “Sports have the power to bring people together,” Arkell says, “and we want to create spaces where everyone feels included.” In a city that thrives on sports, the Mavericks have emerged as a refreshing addition to Kansas

City’s cultural fabric. They’re more than a hockey team—they’re a movement. Their vision goes beyond building a competitive team; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the community they serve. As the Mavericks continue to expand their reach and prepare for groundbreaking projects, they embody the essence of what sports should be: a unifying force that uplifts, inspires, and brings people together. Kansas City is no stranger to champions, and with the Mavericks in motion, the city’s spirit has found yet another reason to celebrate. So whether you’re a hockey fanatic or a curious newcomer, there’s never been a better time to catch the Mavericks in action. They’re proving that hockey—and community—has a home in Kansas City. JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

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BUILDING HEALTHIER HEAR FROM NASM-CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER ABOUT ESTABLISHING THE BEST HABITS ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL

The new year is a classic kickoff to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around. How many times do your resolutions fall through each year? It can be challenging to build new habits and switch up routines if you’re looking for a change. That’s why we rounded up the best advice to establishing habits and making them stay for good. We spoke with Danielle Johnston, National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)-certified personal trainer and aspiring kinesiologist, who broke down her top tips to maintaining healthy habits this new year.

H OW TO | HEALTH + W EL LN E SS

START WITH A SMALL HABIT AND MAKE IT SOMETHING YOU ENJOY

HABITS

Think 1-3 things maximum and then give yourself at least a month or two to apply the change. If you like to eat and cook, maybe try a new recipe or browse a cookbook in the library or bookstore for inspiration. If you like fashion, maybe try cleaning out a section of your closet (i.e. tops, bottoms, shoes, etc) to make way for 1 new piece. If you like being outdoors, maybe you try adding in just a 5 minute walk down the road.

IF YOU MISS A DAY, TRY AGAIN

If you miss a day or make a mistake with whatever resolution you’re working on, take that next opportunity to try again. Danielle uses the goal to eat healthier as an example. Health can be interpreted in many different ways but if you can take the small first step of looking at ingredients, that alone can make a world’s difference in the recipe you use so maybe you don’t even have to alter or substitute it. Or if your goal is to snack less but one day you snack more, don’t wave the flag and sabotage your efforts. Take a minute to breathe through the moment and then move on, enjoying the ebb and flow of health instead of going all in or nothing. Starting small allows you to adjust everyday habits that will, with time, transition to lifestyle changes.

CREATE 3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF RESOLUTIONS

Danielle says to create 1 health resolution, 1 personal resolution, and 1 professional resolution as it is the best format to better yourself in multiple realms instead of just physical health. Too often, we get caught up in this “New Year New Me” mindset and create a list of things you want to change or start doing. But as they get lost in the busy to-do list of life and we forget,

“The new year is a classic kickoff to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around.” we can also feel like a failure and revert to “I’ll try again tomorrow or next year.” But what if you don’t have to start over, just keep going.

TRACK YOUR PROGRESS AND VISUALIZE YOUR FUTURE

Whether you keep a notebook of your habit building, or keep track on your phone, it is important to acknowledge the personal progress made. This will also help you see the future that you want to build as you make more desirable changes in your life. If you want to track how you feel after working out, it will serve as a reflection on the progress made through what has been written down. This will encourage you to continue pushing for your goals!

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ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA SPEARS

Kansas City-based mobile fitness tool “Fit Truk” makes the gym accessible to all

A New Way to Workout City Gym owner and former professional athlete Hailee Bland Walsh and personal trainer Josh Guffey know what it is like to start businesses from scratch. Together, they have over 40 years of fitness experience, have retained loyal, lifelong clients and have overcome the global pandemic of 2020 that threatened to take it all away. Walsh and Guffey revolutionized the fitness industry with the creation of Fit Truk, the world’s first fully-equipped, mobile, outdoor, smart gym that utilizes integrated, easy-to-set-up strength pieces, strength-based group classes and oneon-one training. In their case, thinking outside of the box forced them into one.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | WE LLN E SS

The inclusivity of Fit Truk is an important quality to Walsh. Understanding how uncomfortable the atmosphere in a gym can feel for some, it has been her mission from the beginning, within City Gym and Fit Truk, to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. “Kansas City wholeheartedly embraced this idea, and this summer we celebrated our thirteenth successful year,” she said. “I am remarkably proud of being an independently woman-owned gym that was able to survive an extended closure due to a global pandemic!” As Fit Truk continues to grow its presence in Kansas City and around the world, Walsh and Guffey are focused on empowering community recreational organizations, brick and mortar gyms and sole proprietors to utilize this tool to its fullest potential. CONTINUED >

“We aren't inventors who created a product for the fitness industry. We are industry experts that used our combined acumen to offer the fitness industry a fresh and revolutionary approach to gym entrepreneurship,” Walsh said. What started as a creative idea in Guffey's back pocket has now transformed into the booming industry of building and outfitting mobile gyms to make fitness more accessible to all. The original goal of Fit Truk was to serve as an extension of City Gym. After only a few short months, the pair received enough interest from buyers to take a prototype to an international fitness trade show. Since then, they have never looked back. “What we are seeing is how many people now don't want to come back in!” Walsh said. “Outdoor fitness continues to explode. The power of this tool is its ability to be used in a variety of environments for every population imaginable. The Truk is designed in such a way that it is accessible from everyone from youth athletes to adaptive athletes.”

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“THE REASON I’VE STAYED IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY IS FOR THE MAGIC THAT HAPPENS WHEN A PERSON MAKES AN INTENTIONAL CHOICE TO SHOW UP FOR THEMSELVES. HAVING A FRONT ROW SEAT TO PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION IS PRETTY INCREDIBLE,” SHE SAID.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | WE LLN E SS

Your Pool, Your Way.

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Come explore a whole new level of Creativity with us at Hawaii Fluid Art Overland Park! Fluid Art | Resin Tumblers | Resin Art Hat Patch Party | Glass Painting

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smart

SWEETS The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.

Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

Combine: • 1 cup wheat flour • 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled • 2 cups oats • 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 2 tablespoons chia seeds • 2/3 cup raisins • Optional: chocolate chips as desired • Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc. Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa. Add this mixture slowly to combine: • 2 eggs • 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter • 1/2 cup honey • 1 banana • 1 teaspoon vanilla Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.

Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars

This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.

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EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each. 2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice. 3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite. 4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy! Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.* These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.

Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed. Ingredients • 1/4 cup milk • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder • 1/4 cup maple syrup • 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter) • 1 cup almond flour • 1 teaspoon vanilla • Chocolate chips as desired Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.

Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites

Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites

Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.

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JANUARY 2025

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

JA NUA RY 8T H

Chiefs Cookie Decorating Class McLain's Bakery in Brookside | 6:30 PM Indulge in the art of decorating your sweet treats with the help of professionals at McLain's. Throughout the year, the popular bakery in Brookside offers seasonal cookie and cake decorating opportunities designed to be an approachable and fun experience for those in attendance. Tickets include light appetizers and two non-alcoholic drinks during the class. Purchase online: mclainskc.com/decorating-classes JA NUA RY 1 0 T H

Disney’s The Sound of Magic Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | 8:00 PM For one weekend only, the Kansas City Symphony brings your favorite Disney childhood movies to life! The symphony is set to perform live scores while movie clips are projected during the show. Enjoy hit songs from Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and many more. Tickets are available online: tickets.kcsymphony.org/soundofmagic JA NUA RY 1 0 T H - 1 9 T H

Kansas City Restaurant Week Participating locations | 12:00 PM Just a week after the holiday festivities end, Kansas City Restaurant Week begins! Savor some of the city's finest dishes with hundreds of participating restaurants aiming to curate lunch and dinner menus for affordable, adventurous dining experiences. For a complete list of restaurants and menus, visit kcrestaurantweek.com/ or download the KC Restaurant Week app to plan your experiences.

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JA N UA RY 2 4 T H - 26TH

The Johnson County Home and Garden Show Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd, Overland Park | 10:00 AM The largest home show in Overland Park, Kansas, the Johnson County Home Show features landscaping companies, remodeling contractors, interior design and more. This event will showcase high-interest exhibits, high-profile experts and the latest trends for customers who are ready to move ahead with their home improvement projects. JA N UA RY 2 6T H

Gilmore Girls Trivia Night The KC Wine Co. Vinyard | 2:00 PM Test your Stars Hollow smarts and live your best Lorelai and Rory life at KC Wine Co. Free to Play with Prizes! Teams of Up to 6. Free Admission to KC Wine Co. No Reservations or Pre-Registration for Activities Necessary. Open to guests ages 21+ only.

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BOOKS TO TAKE YOU AWAY I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!

ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

The Corfu Trilogy BY GERALD DURRELL

BY TONY HORWITZ

Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy. Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.

Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before. The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.

Cutting for Stone

Blue Latitudes

BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE

The Island of Missing Trees BY ELIF SHAFAIT

It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.

T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, IndianAmerican medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.

The Museum of Innocence BY ORHAN PAMUK

The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.

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Start Your Health Journey With Us Did you know there is a strong connection between oral health and general health? Oral health can be improved by more than just brushing and flossing. At our office, we tailor the solution to each individual patient. We utilize Perio Protect therapy as an innovative way to decrease overall infection and inflammation. Additionally, the Perio Protect product whitens teeth and freshens breath.

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Bob, Therapy Dog-in-Training