Tag: Kansas City

Posted on

Best Places to Visit in Kansas City During Winter

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Kansas City transforms into a magical destination during the winter months, offering a mix of cozy indoor attractions and festive outdoor activities. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the city during the cold season, these spots showcase the vibrancy and charm of KC.

Crown Center Ice Terrace

The Crown Center Ice Terrace is a winter staple for Kansas City residents and visitors alike. This outdoor ice rink offers a picturesque setting to glide under the crisp winter sky, surrounded by the sparkling city skyline. After enjoying some time on the ice, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee from the nearby cafes.

Country Club Plaza

Country Club Plaza offers a variety of local boutiques and dining options to round out your visit. Known for its Spanish-inspired architecture and dazzling holiday lights, the Plaza becomes even more enchanting during the colder months. Take advantage of post-holiday sales and seasonal promotions at the Plaza’s array of shops. Many stores feature discounts on winter apparel, home goods, and accessories, making it an ideal time to refresh your wardrobe or find souvenirs.

West Bottoms district

The West Bottoms district offers a truly distinctive winter shopping experience, perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures. Its historic warehouses, now home to vintage stores and antique shops, create a charming and nostalgic atmosphere. Each store is packed with unique finds, including furniture, collectibles, décor, and more, making it a favorite spot for both serious antique hunters and casual shoppers. Many shops serve warm drinks, adding a cozy touch to your visit.

The Campground

The Campground is a hidden gem in the Stockyards District that offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for winter evenings. This combined bar and eatery has a cabin-like vibe with a modern twist, featuring warm lighting, wood accents, and a welcoming fireplace. Known for its inventive cocktails and a menu that celebrates locally sourced ingredients, it’s an ideal spot for an intimate night out. Try one of its seasonal cocktails or hearty dishes that perfectly complement the chilly weather.

Green Lady Lounge

For those who love live music and a laid-back vibe, the Green Lady Lounge is a fantastic option. This classic jazz club, with its dim lighting and vintage decor, creates a cozy and intimate setting perfect for unwinding during the winter months. The comfortable seating and excellent drink menu make it an inviting space for guests to enjoy Kansas City’s rich jazz heritage in style.

Explore more live music venues in KC in this blog!

Winter in Kansas City is filled with endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the season. From unique attractions to cozy spots, each destination offers something memorable to make your winter truly special. To discover even more ways to embrace the season, don’t miss my blog on Favorite Winter Activities in Kansas City. There’s always something new and exciting to experience during the winter in KC!

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

Posted on

Favorite Winter Activities in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

I know winter is still a few months away, but if you’re hoping to plan a wintertime visit to Kansas City, now’s the perfect time to start prepping. Here are some of my favorite wintertime activities as a Kansas City native.

See a Show

Distract yourself from the cold by attending a show that’ll be sure to capture your attention. Attend a symphony or concert at the Kauffman Center or be dazzled by a Broadway performance. There are plenty of shows in the city that will be sure to capture your imagination.

Skiing

Did you know that Kansas City is a great place for winter sports? There’s no better time to hit the slopes with your friends and family than in the winter. Be sure to take advantage of the weather and swing by Snow Creek. There are slopes for a range of different skill levels and lessons available for beginners. 

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a classic wintertime for a reason and is an easier and more accessible physical activity for those who are unable to ski. It’s the perfect way to embrace the cold with friends and family and lucky for the residents of Kansas City, we have eight rinks in the area to choose from. For first-time skaters who are nervous about falling onto the ice, remember that everyone’s been there.

Visit Museums

Avoid the cold and learn something new by taking a stroll through one of several museums located in Kansas City. History, music, and sports lovers alike have plenty of options to choose from so whether you’re a visit or just a resident looking for something to do, give one of our local museums a visit. If you want to read about my favorite museums, read my blog about it here .

Go Beer Tasting

Missing the lively environment of a brewery in the summertime? Take the opportunity to enjoy a beer tasting with friends at a great local brewery. Visit Boulevard Brewing Co., where two expert guides break down the creation of all the kinds of beer served by the brewery and provide visitors with a beer tasting and a selection of snacks that pair perfectly.

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean we all have to stop having fun. Next time you’re in Kansas City during the cold winter months, consider one of these options, and you’ll be sure to forget the cold in no time.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

Posted on

Tech Gadgets I Want to Try

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg! 

The tech industry is constantly innovating and expanding its capabilities. As technology is integrated more and more into our daily lives, it’s vital to keep an eye on what’s new. So here are some of the more recent tech releases that have caught my eye:

iPhone 16

iPhones are a staple for a reason, and each addition to the lineup brings new features that make your everyday use more consolidated and convenient. Its customizable Action Button lets you quickly access your favorite features, and the new Camera Control Button offers enhanced photo and video options. It also boasts advanced AI capabilities, like real-time object recognition, making it smarter than ever. Features like Face ID continue to make it a secure, reliable option for anyone seeking a phone. The constantly changing format of the iPhone can sometimes be hard to keep up with if you’re not paying close attention, like the home button that was once a staple and is now rarely seen on a screen. So, if you’re an iPhone user, stay tuned for what’s next!

PHOLED Televisions

The quality of our television screen has continued to improve over the past few years. So, what’s the next step in these screens’ evolution? PHOLED, a phosphorescent organic light emitting diode, is a new way of manufacturing televisions. This tech offers a bright, vivid picture while using far less energy, giving you a lower energy bill without sacrificing viewing quality.

Bose Frames Tempo Sunglasses

These shades protect your eyes from the sun and let you listen to your favorite tunes simultaneously. Music lovers who enjoy the outdoors will now have a new way to take on nature in style. Gone are the days of carrying a speaker on your hike or praying your earphone doesn’t fall out during your run. This sporty, sleek design will let you enjoy nature with the perfect soundtrack.

Apple Watch X 

Rumors have said the Apple Watch X will provide thinner bands and new health features, like measuring your blood pressure, making staying on top of your overall health more effortless than ever. Like many others, I love using smartwatches to track my exercise routines and track my fitness goals. If you want to learn more about how to exercise more often, check out my blog here.

Whether or not you’re investing in this new tech, it’s worth paying attention to the more significant technology trends so that when the time comes, you’ll know what is or isn’t worth your time.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

Posted on

Easy Ways to Eat Healthier

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

For many, it’s hard enough finding time in the day to make yourself a meal to eat, let alone ensuring it’s got all your essential nutrients for the day. But healthy eating is critical to our lifelong health, so finding ways to incorporate it into our daily lives is crucial. Here are some ways I’ve found to help make eating healthier easier: 

Find smaller substitutions

Going cold turkey on all your favorite foods isn’t healthy or realistic. I’ve found it’s easier to find more minor ingredients in my day-to-day cooking that can substitute for something more nutritious. Healthy fats like olive oil are an easy way to ditch fats like butter in your cooking. Another easy substitution is whole or multi-grain bread or pasta instead of white bread to add more healthy grains to your diet. 

Prep your food 

Sometimes, the thing stopping us from eating healthier is having to prepare it. Prepping your food for quicker consumption can help make a short lunch break all the easier, to include veggies in. If you need help eating the daily recommended fruits and vegetables, pre-packing smaller bowls for yourself throughout the week can make it more convenient. 

Eat slowly 

Several studies have shown the benefits of taking your time while you eat. When you’re hungry, you might not even realize you’re rushing yourself as you eat, but it’s important to remember to sit back and take your time as you chew. Your body will be grateful. 

Focus on adding food to your diet

It’s much harder to stick with a healthier diet if you go cold turkey on all the other foods you love. Instead, you can focus on adding new, healthy foods to your diet. You don’t have to swear off eating pizza for dinner and instead can make sure you’re adding a side of carrots to the menu. There are also plenty of vegetables to sneak into your sauces without realizing it. 

Incorporating healthier choices into your lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight. It can be a challenging change in your life, especially if you’re busy like me. I suggest implementing more minor changes to transition them into lifelong habits easily. These recommendations are just some of the ways to help with this transition!

For other tips on building a healthier lifestyle, check out my blog about how to work out more often. 

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

Posted on

Handiest Items for the Summer

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

It’s finally summer, and, if it’s anything like the past few weeks, the heat will continue to be scorching. The high temperatures can stop you from enjoying the outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and make the most of your summer. I want to share some of the best items for summer that will keep you cool while you soak in the sunshine.

Portable Fan

Unless you’re planted on a beach, you may lack a breeze to help break the heat. A small, portable fan can bring the breeze to you and keep you cool wherever you are. I like to have it on hand when I know I’ll be sitting in the same spot outside for a long time. An outdoor concert or show becomes all the more tolerable in the heat when you’ve got this in your back pocket.

Compact Speaker

Whether you’re spending time soaking up the sun in the yard or hosting a barbecue for the neighborhood, a speaker is sure to liven things up. I recommend a more compact model so you can bring it with you on any trips to the park or beach. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Dehydration is no joke, and if you plan to spend any time in the sun, you should plan to stay hydrated. A reusable water bottle you can bring on the go will make it easy to drink and refill on your journey.

A Sun Hat

The best way to protect yourself from the sun is coverage. Any kind of hat, whether it’s a baseball cap to support your favorite team, or a wide-brimmed hat, will protect your scalp and face from burning and help keep you cool while you’re outside. These seasonal hats come with all sorts of brim sizes, so you can pick how much coverage you want.

Picnic Blanket

If you’re anything like me, you love spending time outdoors during summertime. But sometimes places to sit, especially parks on a busy day, can be hard to come by. I suggest keeping a picnic blanket on hand for any park, beach, or concert outings. I prefer ones with an easy-to-clean, waterproof underside, so I don’t have to worry about any mess.

Summer is a beautiful season with plenty of great outdoor activities to explore, but higher temperatures can sometimes interrupt plans. I hope some of these items will help you beat the heat and enjoy your summer!

If you’d like to see some other seasonal travel tips from me, check out my blog here[1] .

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

Posted on

Insights into Entrepreneurship: A Conversation with Michael Gortenburg

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg!

Starting on the entrepreneurial journey demands a unique level of determination and resilience to persevere despite challenging odds. Drawing from my experience in the competitive realm of Kansas City real estate market, I’d like to share some key lessons.

Launching your own business is akin to planting a seed. Nurturing it through uncertainties requires unwavering focus. The journey may test your resolve, but remember, success often emerges from the most challenging moments. Stay focused and stay determined.

I have found that business obstacles are par for the course. Conquering them is more art than science. Don’t be overwhelmed; instead, break down challenges systematically. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your startup won’t be either. Approach each obstacle as a lesson, not a failure.

Signs of success are often subtle. If your product or service is gaining traction, if customers are returning, and if your business is evolving and expanding—these are positive signs. Conversely, if your efforts aren’t generating interest or if financial concerns are mounting, it may be time to reassess.

Now, let’s discuss why Kansas City is a great place for startups. Beyond its strategic location and logistical advantages, the city offers a unique blend of urban vitality and community support. The cost of living is reasonable, and the real estate market holds considerable promise.

Kansas City’s central location makes it an ideal hub. The supportive community, coupled with a diverse cultural scene, provides an environment where businesses can thrive.

Want to find out more about museums and culture? Click here to read my blog on museums.

In conclusion, the road ahead may be challenging but maintaining a strategic mindset and leveraging the unique attributes of Kansas City for entrepreneurs will pave the way for success.

As we delve deeper into the complexities of entrepreneurship, let’s explore why Kansas City isn’t just a place—it’s an entrepreneurial haven.

Strategic Location and Logistics

Kansas City’s strategic geographical location is a logistical advantage. The location provides unparalleled access to major markets without the logistical complexities often found on the coasts. This central positioning streamlines supply chains and facilitates efficient business operations.

Cost of Living and Business Friendliness:

Another reason Kansas City is so appealing is its remarkably affordable cost of living. For startups watching their budget, this is a game-changer. Moreover, the business-friendly environment, moderate taxes, and regulatory support foster a climate conducive to growth and innovation.

Community Support and Networking Opportunities:

Kansas City isn’t just a city; it’s a community. The collaborative spirit here is palpable, with a genuine interest in seeing businesses thrive. Networking opportunities are abundant, making it easier to connect with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators.

Cultural Scene and Quality of Life:

Beyond the boardrooms and office spaces, Kansas City boasts a vibrant cultural scene. From world-class museums and galleries to a thriving music and culinary scene, the city offers a well-rounded quality of life.

Real Estate Potential and Tech Integration:

As a real estate investor, I’ve witnessed the untapped potential in Kansas City’s property market. The city allows for strategic real estate investments with promising returns. Moreover, the integration of technology in various sectors is propelling the city forward.

In conclusion, Kansas City will be a partner in your entrepreneurial success story. From its strategic advantages to the cultural richness and the promising real estate landscape, this city has much to offer. Consider making Kansas City your launching pad—a place where dreams are not just dreamt but realized.

Best regards,

Michael Gortenburg

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

Posted on

Kitchen Gadgets That Make Cooking Easier

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

A home-cooked meal is one way to ensure you’re eating healthier, but it can be pretty time-consuming for those with busy schedules. For those who spent years relying on takeout, starting your cooking journey and deciding which tools you need to buy first can be overwhelming. So, I wanted to share a few of the basics I’ve used most often that make cooking easier and quicker.  

Chopper

Nothing can slow done your cooking more than when you need to stop everything and chop your vegetables. Chopping is a skill; if you’re a beginner, it can take a long time to get familiar enough with the motion. To cut down on time, I recommend investing in a chopper. Just place your vegetable on the metal portion and press down. This utensil is also incredibly helpful for those with mobility issues who struggle to make smaller movements. Now, you’ll just need to press down once and be ready to continue with dinner. 

Poultry Shears 

Cutting raw meat on a cutting board can be finicky, so investing in a set of poultry shears makes the process far quicker and easier. These shears make it easy to choose how big or small you want the pieces to be with less hassle. It’s also much more user-friendly if your kids are helping out in the kitchen. This versatile tool can also help cut herbs, break down a turkey, or quickly open a food package. 

Hand Mixer 

If you hate whisking, a hand mixer is a must-have for your kitchen. Whether mixing up cupcake batter or making mashed potatoes, whisking can be tiring and sometimes painful. A hand mixer halves your mixing time, making whisking more convenient than ever.  

Universal Pot Lid 

Some of our favorite pans we cook with daily don’t come with lids. This can be incredibly frustrating with meals that must be covered as they simmer, but you have nothing to cover the pot or pan. A universal pot lid will increase the versatility of nearly all pots and pans in your kitchen. So next time you’ve got a pot simmering, you won’t have to improvise. 

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what cooking essentials are needed to fit your eating habits best. This list is just a beginner’s recommendation for those building up their kitchen collection from scratch so you can make more time to create healthier, home-cooked meals. 

Need some advice on organizing? Here are some tips for staying organized!

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Also, follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

Posted on

Tips for Staying Organized

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Staying organized increases my productivity and, more importantly, reduces my stress. Unsurprisingly, a messy room can be a significant stressor, with some medical professionals saying a clean room can benefit your mental health. Here are some tips on how to stay organized so you can be the best version of yourself and reenergize your living space: 

Take it one step at a time 

When looking at a cluttered area, it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed by the task ahead of you. It helps when I focus on just one corner of the room at a time. If you’re decluttering your kitchen, go from one end of the counter to the other, putting away items and cleaning as you go.

Have a designated place for a “junk” pile

We all have small everyday items that get lost easily. Whether it’s your car keys, spare change, or rubber bands, having one place to put your clutter will help keep your space clean. This keeps extra junk from cluttering up other areas where you need space for something else. It might help to keep items you’ll always need as you walk out the door close to your entryway.

Schedule your organization 

Use a calendar to mark when you plan to declutter and reorganize. These check-ins will keep you on track with your organization goals and help you sustain them for the long run. For example, you could designate the first Friday of every month as when you’ll clean and organize your bedroom.

Learn to let things go 

The fastest way to get overwhelmed by clutter is to refuse to let go of anything. Even if it’s just once a year, set aside time for you to reexamine your items and decide what can be given up to make more space. I’ve found Marie Kondo’s  method the most helpful when determining what items should or shouldn’t be kept. You don’t have to part ways with every sentimental thing you own, but it’s beneficial to reevaluate what you’re saving because you love it and what you’re keeping because you feel bad about getting rid of it.

Though cleanliness and organization are not the end-all-be-all solutions, it is one way you can aid your stress levels. Out of all the stress-inducing things in your life, cleaning is the one you have the most direct control over, so take advantage of it!

 If you want to read my tips on being more efficient, check out my blog here.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 


Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

Posted on

How to Prepare for a Long-Haul Flight

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Traveling to faraway destinations expands our perspective, but sometimes getting there can be rough. Some of the flights to these destinations can reach up to 24 hours, making for an unpleasant experience no matter how well seasoned of a traveler you are. Here are some of my tips on how to prepare for a long-haul flight:

Move Around When You Can

Take advantage of your time in the terminal while you can. Before getting on the plane, take a lap around the terminal and try to get in as many steps as you can before boarding. When it’s safe to move in the cabin, try to stretch briefly in the aisles periodically. It’s never comfortable being cooped up in the same position for long, so don’t forget to stretch your muscles.

Pack Your Own Snacks

Depending on which airline you use, long-haul flights are more likely to provide meals and snacks for you to choose from. However, if their meal selection isn’t up to your taste and their snacks do little to satisfy your appetite, your own snacks will help keep your stomach happy during your travels.

Stay Hydrated

Airplane bathrooms are never ideal to use, but with that many hours of travel ahead of you, it’s best to make proper hydration a priority. Don’t skimp out on drinking water because you want to avoid the bathroom at all costs. You don’t want to arrive at your destination with a headache. Instead, drink water regularly so you can be ready to take on your itinerary when you land.

Try to Adjust Your Sleep Schedule

Jet lag when traveling for long periods of time across time zones is inevitable. But with so much time on your hands, you may as well try to adjust your schedule while you can. Better now than in the middle of your vacation. Try taking something natural like a melatonin pill to help you fall asleep outside your usual timeframe.

Get Your Entertainment Ready

Download any music, movies, or TV shows in case the in-flight Wi-Fi is down, or the provided movie selection isn’t to your taste. The last thing you want is to be stuck for ten or more hours with nothing to do because you forgot to download your favorite movies or shows beforehand.

If you prepare properly for a long-haul flight, you can make the most of your time and savor it as part of the travel experience. 

If you want to read more of my traveling tips and tricks, check out my blog here.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri.

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

Posted on

How to Exercise More Often

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Exercise is undoubtedly vital to staying healthy, but it’s easy for busy people to let it fall by the wayside. According to the CDC, only 28 percent of Americans exercise as often as they should. I know it’s not just a matter of telling you to make time for it, so here are some tips on how to exercise more often:

Exercise with a friend

It’s much easier to feel motivated to exercise when someone else is there to hold you accountable. Unlike an exercise class full of strangers, you’ll feel more comfortable expressing your limits at the gym or while working out outdoors. It’s also a chance to catch up with your friend more consistently.

Sign up for a class 

If you’re like me, you are more inclined to participate after signing up for a class. Cancellation fees can be an excellent motivator for getting out the door and going to class. There are plenty of options for you to find, from spin classes to Zumba to rowing. No matter where you are in your fitness journey, there’s sure to be a class that fits your comfort level.

Find something you want to do 

Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. There are plenty of serotonin-producing activities that are fun and healthy. If you like to dance, there are plenty of classes and free tutorials on Youtube you can use as a starting point in your fitness journey. If you have mobility issues and find exercise painful, consider a swim aerobics class. Even just a 30-minute walk around the neighborhood is great for getting outside and raising your heartrate.

Don’t push too hard too fast

Everyone has to start somewhere. It can be easy to get fixated on your long-term health goals and forget the smaller steps it takes to reach them. If it’s been a while since you exercised regularly, start slow. You might be tempted to go hard right from the start, but whatever exercise you’re doing should be part of a lifelong commitment to staying active, and it’s much harder to do that if you burn out early.

Exercise is a great lifelong habit, but it can be challenging to maintain when forcing yourself to do something you don’t enjoy. I hope these tips help you figure out where to add exercise to your routine.

If you want some ideas for gifts for sports fans, check out my blog herehttps://michaelgortenburg.com/2023/12/21/the-best-gifts-for-any-sports-fan/.

Michael Gortenburg, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri. 


Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.