Tag: Kansas City

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The Best Gifts for Any Sports Fan

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Any sports fan is likely to already own merchandise from their favorite team so finding a new sports-themed gift they’ll like can be difficult. Here are some suggestions for those looking to get something for the sports lovers in their lives.

Cooler

Whether someone’s tailgating or hosting a watch party at home, coolers are a sports game essential. No one wants to drink warm beers during the game. Whether it’s shelling out for a Yeti or grabbing a budget friendly Igloo, there’s options that fit any price range. The sports fan you’re shopping for will be grateful for the addition to their collection.

Noise Reduction Earplugs

Everyone loves to hear the roar of the crowd at sports games but exposing yourself to that much noise often enough can cause damage to your ears. Earplugs will still let them hear the roar of the crowd without developing an earache afterward. If you’ve got a sports fan frequenting games, consider buying them a pair of noise reduction earplugs. Their ears will be sure to thank you. 

Ticket Diary

For the sentimental type, a ticket diary might be the perfect way for them to capture every big game they go to. Long gone are the days of haphazard stacks of ticket stubs. Instead, this album can help organize and display their tickets, so no memory gets misplaced.

BBQ Equipment

Another tailgating essential, cooking barbecue is a surefire way to elevate any sports fan’s game experience. Whether it’s a set of grilling utensils or even a small portable grill that can fit in their trunk, there’s plenty of useful accessories to choose from. No one wants to pay the high prices of stadium food so making sure to eat before the big game is needed for anyone to save money. Gifting barbecue equipment can take your tailgate to the next level for the upcoming season.

Buying a gift for someone you love isn’t always easy. You want to make sure you get them something that they’ll love and appreciate. I hope that, with these gifts, you’ll be able to elevate the experience of any sports fan in your life.

And if you or your sports fan find yourselves visiting Kansas City anytime soon, learn more about visiting Kauffman Stadium here.

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


Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.

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How to Save Money When Traveling

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As an avid traveler myself, I know that traveling is one of the most gratifying experiences one can have. You get to see new places, meet new people and learn new things. However, I’m also aware it can be a pretty expensive undertaking. Here are some ways you can save money on your next trip. 

Plan Early 

Hotel and airline prices are cheaper the further out you go from your travel date, so make sure to book them as soon as you know when you’ll be traveling. This will especially come in handy if you’re planning on traveling close to the holidays, as you’ll be able to beat the inevitable rush of people scrambling for last-minute tickets. 

Never Forget Your Points and Miles 

You might have plenty of points saved up to cover your airfare completely. Before you empty your wallet on hotel or airline tickets, check to see what points you might have waiting in your back pocket. 

Check Discount Travel Sites 

When booking experiences or reservations for the location you’re traveling to, do a quick search on Groupon to see if there’s a discount you could utilize. Tours may have group discounts available or some restaurants in the area may even be running a deal while you’re visiting. These websites will be helpful to find all sorts of savings. 

Set a Budget 

Setting a strict budget for traveling is a great way to hold yourself accountable. I know the urge to buy souvenirs while you’re out traveling is a strong one, but having a budget to curb it can be very helpful. It’ll also help you cut out anything extra you might not actually want. 

Car Rentals 

Renting a car when you’re traveling can be an expensive undertaking, but relying on Ubers or public transportation might not be the best option either. Payment for Ubers can stack up and depending on where you’re visiting, public transit might not be reliable. I recommend checking out cheaper options for car rentals like Costco, Autoslash, or Turo to find a better deal. 

Traveling always takes a decent amount of planning, but especially so when you’re trying to save money. There’s plenty of options for people trying to save money on trips. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to plan and you’ll have a perfect (and budget-friendly) travel plan ready in no time. 

If you want to see 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.

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The Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit This Time of Year

Hello, it’s Michael Gortenburg! 

Whenever you’re planning a trip, you should always know what it is you’re looking for. As a seasoned traveler myself, I want to share some of my favorite places in the U.S. to visit this time of year. 

Burlington, VT  

This charming New England town is nothing short of picturesque in the Fall season. Those looking for an unobstructed view of their fall foliage can take a scenic drive on one of the nearby mountain passes. Though Smuggler’s Notch is the most famous, I prefer the Centennial Woods Natural Area for a wider area to explore.  If you’re able to be there past the first snowfall of the season, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the two local mountains just a few miles out of town. Traffic for the ski resorts tends to pick up in the winter months so now’s the best time to get in some good time on the slopes. 

Williamsburg, VA 

If you’re looking for a more historical getaway, consider visiting colonial Williamsburg. Cooler weather makes traversing this snapshot in history far more enjoyable than the humid summer months. You can grab a nice cup of homemade cider or hot chocolate to sip on as you stroll down Gloucester Street. When you’re not watching reenactments or touring the Governor’s Palace, there are plenty of taverns and stores around to keep you busy. Gorgeous fall foliage provides the perfect backdrop as you tour through Jamestown and the Yorktown Battlefield. 

Key West, FL  

If you’re seeking a beach destination to hide away from the cold, then Key West is your perfect destination. Now’s the perfect time to visit for those seeking a quieter experience with the summer crowd gone. The weather also cools down to the more comfortable high 70s, a nice respite from the humid summer months. Stunning beaches always make for a nice opportunity to peacefully unwind. There’s also much less rain this time of year so you can take your time strolling down Duval Street without having to worry about packing an umbrella. And if you love a great key lime pie, there’s no better place than its namesake. Take your pick of some of the best pies on the island! 

Texas Hill Country 

If you’re seeking out beautiful views with manageable temperatures, central Texas has many great opportunities for more active vacationers! The Lost Maples State Natural Area is a great spot to admire the changing colors of the trees. Texas’ trees change their color later than most of the country, so you’ll be able to witness beautiful autumn colors past late into the season. 

Each season brings a unique experience to places all across the United States. If you’re looking for a retreat from the cold, consider a place that’ll keep you warm. Figure out what Fall vacation you want and look for the best destination for that experience. 

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

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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My Favorite Museums I’ve Visited

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

Museums capture different aspects of our culture and provide a perfect option for those who are looking to learn as they travel. As a frequent traveler, I love taking the opportunity to visit museums that cover different aspects of history. Whenever I get the chance to visit a museum and learn something new, I take it. Here are some of my favorite museums that I’ve visited: 

American Museum of Natural History 

Watch the history of the natural world unfold before you at the American Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Visitors can learn about and observe various extinct and endangered animals. The Tyrannosaurus Rex and Mammoth skeletons were highlights when I visited and are sure to capture your attention. 

Smithsonian Institution 

Located in Washington D.C., the Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex. Plus, If you want a cost-effective option for sight-seeing in the nation’s capital, admission to Smithsonian museums is free. I recommend the Entertainment Nation exhibit at the National Museum of American History where Dorothy’s red ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” are on full display.  

Exploratorium 

The Exploratorium located in San Francisco, California, provides visitors with unique tools and experiences so visitors can let their curiosity take them where they want to go. Visit the monochromatic room to learn about reflecting the light or use a microscope to view fish eggs in development. This museum will be sure to satisfy any curious mind. 

International Spy Museum 

The International Spy Museum provides visitors with an exciting look at espionage throughout history. Come face to face with spymasters from the past as you learn about the gadgets and techniques they used to influence others. For those with kids, this is a surefire choice that’s both exciting and informative. 

American Jazz Museum 

The final museum on this list is located in my hometown of Kansas City. The American Jazz Museum collects and preserves the sights and sounds of Jazz music. This museum helps keep these music legends alive through live performances, exhibits, community events, and more. Located in the historic 18th and Vine district, it’s a sure treat for any music history fan. 

Next time you’re in one of these cities, make sure to stop by one of these museums. You’ll learn more about history and have a fun time doing it. 

If you want to learn more of my tricks when traveling, check out my blog about it here. 

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

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Best Bookstores in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here.

As a reader myself, I always appreciate browsing through bookstores to find my next read. Kansas City is full of wonderful options that any book lover will enjoy. Here are some of the best bookstores Kansas City has to offer: 

Prospero’s Books 

At Prospero’s Books, three floors are filled to the brim with books for your next read. With plenty of restaurants and bars close by, you can grab a quick bite to eat as you stroll through the aisles. Readings, book releases, and art openings are just a few of the fun events open to the public. 

Afterword Tavern & Shelves 

Afterword serves a side of beer and a bite to eat along with your book purchase. Grab food with a friend and talk about the book you’re looking for. Or better yet, break out your newly purchased book and jump in as you relax with a nice glass of wine. 

Wise Blood Booksellers 

This bookstore is nestled inside a record store and provides new and used books for customers to browse through. They have various genres and a great selection of music to choose from so you can listen to your new book with the perfect soundtrack. 

Flagship Books 

This small, neighborhood bookstore is a nice respite during a busy day. They supply books across all genres and even offer a “Big Open Book Club” where readers can come and discuss whatever it is they’ve been reading. Drop in to hear readings from local Kansas City writers and pick up a book of your own. 

Rainy Day Books 

What I loved about Rainy Day Books was the personalized recommendations from staff. If you’re looking for a new read but can’t nail down what it is you’re looking for, staff will figure out the perfect book for you. This is especially helpful when out shopping for gifts. Rainy Day Books hosts over 300 author events yearly so be sure to stop in for a reading. 

Bookstores give literature fans the perfect space to discuss and appreciate the books they love. Next time you’re in Kansas City, be sure to stop by one of these stores to find your next read. 

If you want to know what books to buy when you’re visiting, check out this list of some of my favorites. Or, check out this blog if you want to figure out how to read more often.  

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

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Best Places to Eat in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As a native of Kansas City, I’ve spent my life looking for great places to eat. It can be daunting figuring out where you want to eat. Nobody wants to spend a bunch of money only to end up hating the meal they’re eating. Whether you’re just visiting or a resident looking for new places to try, I’ve got a list of some of the best places to eat in Kansas City. 

Golden Ox 

Golden Ox is a steakhouse staple and is the birthplace of the Kansas City strip steak. Meat lovers have plenty of hearty, delicious menu items to choose from. Come ready to eat as they’ve got plenty of incredible appetizers and sides to fill you up. 

The Rockhill Grille

The Rockhill Grille offers an elegant dining experience with American cuisine and creative cocktails. Friendly staff and a great location make it a great spot for a date night away from the kids. You’ll be able to pick from a variety of delicious choices for brunch, lunch, and dinner. 

Mildred’s 

If you’re looking for a breakfast place to start off your day right, look no further than Mildred’s. Family-owned and operated for 25 years, Mildred’s has expanded far beyond its initial status as a small “Ma and Pa” and has since become a booming breakfast staple. Plenty of options are available for sweet or savory breakfast offerings and coffee for a nice caffeine fix. 

Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Any Kansas City native will tell that barbecue is an important part of the city’s culture. Joe’s Kansas City BBQ is a relaxed BBQ pit stop that gives diners an extensive selection of incredible barbecue to choose from. They’ve got three locations, but I recommend visiting the original gas station location if you have the chance. 

Garazzo’s Downtown

You won’t find a better source of quality Italian food than Garazzo’s. Italian eatery at its finest, they’ve been a staple of the community for the past 32 years.  Garazzo’s has a welcoming, familial atmosphere that makes their home-cooked recipes taste even more delicious. Be sure to try out the owner’s private wine label, Garozzo Cellars Chianti Classico, to pair with your meal when you’re visiting. 

Kansas City is filled with incredible restaurants that can satisfy any appetite. I hope that this guide will be helpful the next time you’re trying to figure out where to eat out in Kansas City. 

If you’re looking for other places to visit in Kansas City, check out my blog on some of my favorite places.

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

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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Best Places to See Live Music in Kansas City

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

There’s nothing better than listening to music live and in person. Getting to listen along with a crowd creates an experience like no other. Here are some recommendations on where to listen to live music in Kansas City from a lifelong native. 

Green Lady Lounge

The Green Lady Lounge pays tribute to Kansas City’s jazz legacy with local musicians playing their own compositions. A retro atmosphere free of screens awaits patrons so they can focus entirely on the music and the people around them. The dimly lit bar has excellent cocktails for you to sip on while you enjoy the amazing music. 

Uptown Theater

This historic theater holds shows and events for a wide variety of musicians that all music lovers will enjoy. Following a $15 million renovation, Uptown Theater is one of the few atmospheric theaters still operating and is a must-see for any music fans. 

Knuckleheads

Knuckleheads has five stages that provide five different concert experiences for guests. For those seeking out big outdoor concerts, visit the Outdoor Stage and Courtyard Theater to see your favorite artists perform. For those seeking bigger venues with their own unique charm, visit the Knuckleheads Garage or the Saloon Stage. If you’re looking for a place to dance and drink, stop by the Fender Stage or check out the Gospel Lounge for a more intimate listening experience. 

CrossroadsKC at Grinders

The outdoor venue CrossroadsKC at Grinders has artists playing everything from rock to reggae and country to hip-hop. There’s something for everyone here though it’s always good to keep the weather in mind when planning on attending. With great food and an exciting environment, this is one of the Premier venues for live music in Kansas City. 

 T-Mobile Center

T-Mobile Center is an arena downtown that hosts popular artists for large-scale, crowd-packed concerts. As Kansas City’s premier home for live entertainment and sports events, it’s a popular destination for those looking to see a live performance so be sure to get your ticket early. 

Kansas City has a musical history that visitors and natives alike should take the time to appreciate. These venues are just some of the many options for music lovers to get their fix. 

If you want my recommendations on the best sights to see in Kansas City, 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.

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Tips on Being More Efficient in the New Year

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Many of us may have already dropped our New Year’s Resolutions by now, but I personally believe there’s no wrong time to make a positive change in your life. Here are some tips for those looking to be more efficient in 2023. 

Break Tasks Down Into Smaller Pieces 

The urge to procrastinate is hard to resist and I’ve learned that breaking down work into smaller chunks is very helpful when trying to concentrate. When looking at a big project or task, take a step back and zero in on what can be done first. One of the easiest ways to do this is to allocate a manageable amount of time you can dedicate each day to working on the project to make it feel more manageable.  

Figure Out What Needs to Be Done First 

Whether it’s for work or chores at home, look at what you need to do and think to yourself “What could cause a problem if I don’t get it done now?” For work, if a specific task is due that day, you’ll want to make finishing it a priority. At home, if you’re choosing between cleaning up a spill on the living room carpet or cleaning the oven, you’ll want to focus on cleaning up the spill before a stain can set. Prioritizing your tasks each day helps you become more productive on a day-to-day basis. 

Write Down a List of Your Tasks for Reference 

Many of us are leading busy lives with to-do lists we can’t keep straight from day to day. If you’ve got a busy day or week ahead of you, take a few minutes to write down a list of everything you need to get done. It can be easy to lose track of what you should be doing, so it’s handy having a list to refer back to. Plus, if you’re someone like me who loves having a to-do list to check off, you’ll feel even more accomplished when you finish! 

Learn to Say “No”

Sometimes in the name of being efficient, we say “yes” to everything thrown our way. But to be efficient, you can’t take on more than you can handle. Learn to know when your plate is full and be comfortable turning down others so you can prioritize yourself. 

Take Breaks

One of the most crucial parts of being more efficient is taking a break. If you’re operating at full speed 100% of the time, you’re bound to burn out. Your body and mind need time to recuperate if they’re going to be as efficient as you want them to be. If you want recommendations on books to read in your downtime, check out my blog here. 

When your life gets busy, it’s easy to succumb to the stress and get overwhelmed, but life doesn’t have to be that way. I hope these tips will help guide you so that your life throughout 2023 is more efficient than ever. 

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

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5 Reasons to Invest In Real Estate

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

As many face financial difficulty in the wake of the pandemic, you may look for ways to boost your income. Real estate provides great benefits for those looking to diversify their portfolio and avoid riskier investments. Here are five reasons why you should invest in real estate:  

Tax Benefits 

When tax season arrives, real estate investors are able to write off fees for managing their properties. The costs of owning and operating can provide some decent tax breaks. If you’re able to sell your property for more than what you bought it for, then it won’t be counted as taxed income. 

Chance to Build Capital 

If you invest in the right properties, you’ll be able to expand your capital by selling it once its value has risen. One of the main goals of investing in real estate is to build out capital, or cash. What’s important is making sure you’re investing in the right properties and knowing the right time to sell. 

Diversification 

In times of economic turmoil, such as the one we’re currently facing, diversification can be key to protecting you from riskier financial investments. If certain stocks are facing a downturn, your real estate could still be increasing in value, protecting you from greater financial harm. 

Stable Cash Flow 

Renting out property to tenants is a good source of additional monthly income. After mortgage payments and any supplemental operating costs, the additional profit leftover is yours to take. Just make sure you’re renting out to reliable tenants. You don’t want to constantly be short of a check by the end of the month and have to cut into your own funds. 

Inflation Protection 

As inflation increases prices, property values also increase. You’ll be able to make more for higher operating expenses in order to compensate where you’re paying more in other areas. 

Figure out what kind of real estate investment is right for you. Do you want to rent out a property to families or business owners? The most important thing when investing in real estate is choosing the property that aligns with you and your goals. You’ll want to choose a property that will ideally move up in value instead of depreciating. Either way, you’ll be able to expand your financial resume and receive several financial benefits. 

If you want to learn about ways to boost the resale value of property you already own, read my blog here about home renovations I recommend. 

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

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing. 

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Travel Tips and Tricks for 2023

Hi everyone! It’s Michael Gortenburg here. 

Traveling can be stressful. As a seasoned traveler myself, I know how much effort goes into trip preparation. Today, I wanted to share some tips about aspects of your vacation you may put on the back burner. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you plan your next vacation. 

Never Underestimate Lines at the Airport

It may seem overkill to get to the airport hours ahead of takeoff but it’s essential to keep in mind. Some international travelers are waiting up to four hours to get through security. Don’t miss out on your dream vacation because the line for TSA is moving too slowly. Better to be early and bored than to miss your flight entirely. If you’re looking for a good read to pass the time waiting in the terminal, check out my blog about some of my favorite mystery novels. 

Budget Accordingly 

Traveling expenses can add up pretty quickly. Create a travel budget that will account for essentials like food and lodging but remember to take experiences into consideration. Give yourself room to make some pre-planned “impulsive” decisions on your trip. 

Invest in a Quality Suitcase. 

Many travelers fall victim to the overpacking impulse. This can be a pain when you’re trying to consolidate the number of bags you’re checking at the airport. Invest in a suitcase that can compensate for any last-minute additions to your clothes for the trip and anything you decide to purchase while you’re away. 

Study Up. 

It’s always important to know some of the ground rules for where you’re traveling. You should know. What’s a big no-no? Are there any cultural differences? Is there any special clothing you need to pack? Look at the weather forecast and be prepared for different climates depending on the time of year. You don’t have to know the ins and outs of everything but it’s good to have a general knowledge of the area you’re visiting so you can ensure you have the best trip possible. 

Don’t Be Afraid of the Tourist Label 

Tourists tend to get a bad rep. Many people get caught up trying to avoid judgment from locals but as long as you’re being respectful, embrace your status as a traveler. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or visit the monument already clogged up with other visitors. They’re popular for a reason! 

Preparedness pays off but make sure you don’t get too caught up in the details when you’re traveling. It’s good to have a plan so you can make the most out of your time but don’t sweat it too much if things get knocked a bit off course. Wherever you’re going, enjoy your visit! 

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

Also follow Michael on Medium, Twitter, and Xing.