MAR ‘17 | Vol. 6 No. 11
IS IT A COLD OR SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS? 10 RED FLAGS FOR YOUR HEALTH
HOW TO GET GIRLS INVOLVED IN STEM PEOPLE
CHRIS BRADFORD, KC RUGS GURU
LIVING
RAISING KIDS WHO HAVE FOOD ALLERGIES
STYLE
SPRING-BREAK ESSENTIALS
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CONTENTS
MELANIE’S MUST-HAVES 9
SPRING BREAK ESSENTIALS
AROUND TOWN 12
GIRLS NEED STEM AND STEM NEEDS GIRLS
DEAR KACIE 16
HOW TO TELL PEOPLE YOU’VE LOST YOUR JOB
INFOCUS 18
KC WHOLESALE CARPET AND AREA RUG DIMENSIONS
FASHION 20 INFOCUS 26
LOCAL SPA BRINGS LUXURY TO EVERYONE
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40
WHO WHAT WHERE 28 MEET ANDREW BASH
BECAUSE I SAID SO 30 NO, THANK YOU
BE WELL 32
HOW TO KNOW IT IT’S “JUST A COLD” OR SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS
INFOCUS 36
COMPOUND HEALTH AND FITNESS: EXERCISE, EAT, RELAX
FINANCE 40 12
UNDERSTANDING 401(K)S AND IRAS
48
PARENTING 44
NO SHELLFISH FOR YOU: RAISING A CHILD WITH A FOOD ALLERGY
APP OF THE MONTH 47
GET INSTANT ACCESS TO COMMON FIRST-AID EMERGENCIES
7 THINGS 48 KC METRO TOURS
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HAPPENINGS 50
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EDITOR’S NOTE
A CITY FULL OF TREASURES For many, March is the time to escape the last few weeks of winter. The past couple of years, we have actually stayed in Kansas City for spring break. It’s a great time for a staycation — the city clears out, making this time the best to visit places that are normally so busy. (Last year we went to The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures for the first time, and it was a hit!) We’re planning another staycation this year. My kids are looking forward to Science City, a ride on the street car, and pizza at our favorite pizza joint — Il Lazzarone in the River Market. KC has so many hidden gems. We can’t wait to discover some new family fun spots. If you happen to be going someplace warm — color me a little jealous — you should check out the amazing swimsuits and poolside accessories for all body types from Nani Nalu Boutique featured on the next page. But if you’re staying in the city, I hope you find your own hidden gems and new favorite KC destinations. And if you find one particularly amazing? Share it with SIMPLYkc Magazine on Facebook so I can add it to our list!
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Melanie’s Must Haves Spring-Break Essentials
Photo by Samantha Levi
With spring break and summer on the horizon, a great-fitting swimsuit is an absolute must. No matter what shape or size you are, there is a flattering swimsuit out there. It just takes some time to find the right one! This season, the one-piece remains an important staple. Look for cutouts, plunging neck lines, and one shoulder or off-the-shoulder silhouettes. In two-piece suits, look for the return of the high-waisted bottom, crochet fabrication, high neck tops, tassels, and criss-cross strap details. Don’t forget the cover-up, which is just as important as the swimsuit itself! Add long beads, a great hat, and statement sunglasses to pull the look together.
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A. Kooring Gal widebrim hat $35 B. Sea folly Crochet Trim Kaftan $92 C. Prima Donna one piece $284 D. Mare Sole Mare beach necklace $48 E. Robin PIccone Ava Gold High Neck $110 F. Robin PIccone Twist Cuff Bottom $78 G. Helen Jon Twist underwire bra $118 H. Helen Jon South Shore Tab Hipster $77 I. Gotten Starry Night One piece $178 J. Sunglasses by Le Specs $89 All items from Nani Nalu Beachwear Boutique on the Country Club Plaza 421 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO (naninaluswim.com) SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 9
SOLAR SHADES TOO!
Wouldn’t You Like The Best of Sun and Shade This Summer? CUSTOM DESIGNS | QUALITY PRODUCTS FRIENDLY, PERSONAL SERVICE
PUBLISHER
SUZANNE STEINER
EDITOR
MELANIE KNOPKE
MANAGING EDITOR ASHLEY PUDERBAUGH
PHOTOGRAPHY
SAMANTHA LEVI OF SAMANTHA LEVI PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF EVRARD OF EVRARD PHOTOGRAPHY JAMIE SQUIRE OF JAMIE SQUIRE PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
DEBORAH EAKIN OSBORNE, LESLI LUNDQUIST, MARY EDWARDS, JULIE BURTON, BRENNAN HALLOCK, CANDI SMITH, KELCIE MCKENNEY, REBECCA FISCHER
ART DIRECTOR JULIE FAERMAN
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COVER / FASHION
PHOTOS Jeff Evrard of Evrard Photography, 816.447.2145, photo@jeffevrard. com, @thejeffevrard • MODEL Eliza Swan of Hoffman International, 4800 W. 135th St., Ste. #230, Leawood, KS, 913.642.1060 • WARDROBE Aylsa Rene Boutique, 11547 Ash St., Leawood, KS, 913.906.9477, @alysa_rene • HAIR Hunter Morris for Oliver’s Hair Salon, Rosana Square, 7590 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS, 913.338.2266, @olivershairsalon & @wstein78 • MAKEUP Melissa Evans, 913.558.3411, melissaevansmua.com, @missiee.muah • WARDROBE STYLING & FASHION CONSULTANT Wlaa for Wlaa Style @wlaastyle
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SIMPLYkc Magazine is published monthly by Mach Publications, LLC. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of SIMPLYkc Magazine. All rights reserved. SIMPLYkc Magazine accepts no infringement or other responsibility for unsolicited or contributed copy, artwork, photography, or advertisements. No representation is made as to the accuracy hereof and is printed subject to omissions and errors. Opinions and statements in SIMPLYkc Magazine are contributed by authors and or advertisers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SIMPLYkc Magazine. Photography and material in the publication as well as design may not be copied or reproduced in any form without written permission. References for copy will be made available upon written request. All rights reserved. ©2017, Mach Publications, LLC.
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AROUND TOWN
GIRLS NEED STEM AND STEM NEEDS GIRLS Girls Who Code. No, it’s not a movie about a break-in. It’s a program for girls to learn how to build websites. Girls Who Code is a club introduced to Kansas City by Ruby Rios, a junior at Bishop Miege High School in Shawnee Mission. As a high school freshman, Rios enrolled in a week-long “app camp” through KC Power Source, an organization that teaches kids introductory skills in computer programming. By the end of the school year, Rios was taking college-level coding classes. But her true passion is helping girls who are interested in STEM — science, technology, engineering, and math — find opportunities like she did with KC STEM Alliance.
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Written by Julie Burton | Photos by KC STEM Alliance
KC STEM Alliance is a not-for-profit network of educators, businesses, and organizations working together to inspire youth interest in STEM. And, in the case of Rios, there are opportunities for girls to create their own STEM programs. “I think because of old stereotypes around coders and gamers being male, girls feel uncomfortable considering the idea of coding,” Rios says. “But everyone is capable of coding no matter what gender, and with the world becoming more technologically advanced, it’s important that girls get the opportunity to explore STEM fields.” Women are underrepresented in the science and engineering workforce. And according to The National Science Foundation, the gender gap is widening. Women make up half of the college educated demographic, but only 29 percent go into the science and engineering industries. Girls who have an interest in STEM should explore opportunities in school as well as extracurricular options. Here’s a list of options worth looking into for girls, from grades kindergarten through high school.
GIRLS WHO CODE girlswhocode.com
Computer technology jobs are in high demand in the workforce and girls are being left out. Girls Who Code is an after-school club designed for sixth- through 12th-grade girls to explore coding in a fun and friendly environment. They learn how to build websites and apps and learn how to solve software problems. KC STEM Alliance sponsors a club that meets in central Kansas City on the UMKC campus. Johnson County Community College sponsors another.
CODING AND CUPCAKES codingandcupcakes.kcwomenintech.org Kansas City Women in Technology presents Coding and Cupcakes, a parent-daughter event held every second Saturday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Crossroads District. The parent-daughter coding partners pretend to be cupcake-shop owners in need of a website to show their baked goods. The parents and daughters learn website building from start to finish, doing everything from displaying their own copy to adding a color theme, and they are taught how to host their own sites. Babycakes in the Rivermarket provides cupcakes during the event.
Students work in small groups in one of four career fields to explore a specific career in greater depth with a female mentor. The young women perform experiments that mimic the actual work of the mentor and create take-home items produced in the workshops. Science City has ongoing STEM programs throughout the year.
KC STEM ALLIANCE SUMMER CAMPS kcstem.org
KC STEM Alliance’s website is a great resource to find information about camps in both Kansas and Missouri. Upcoming opportunities include KCPL’s, “Get Into Energy Camp” on the UMKC campus, normally occurring in June. This camp raises energy awareness by building practical experimentation with energy jobs.
FIRST (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology) kcfirst.org
FIRST is a progression of robotics-based programs starting with FIRST LEGO League Jr. for kids in kindergarten through fourth grade, continuing with FIRST LEGO League for fourthto eighth-graders, FIRST Tech Challenge for eighth through 12th grades, and FIRST Robotics Competition for ninth through 12th grades.
Many high school robotics teams offer relatively low-cost robotics camps to raise funds for their teams. And community colleges, local universities, and park and recreation systems often offer app camps. Follow KC STEM Alliance on Twitter and Facebook to see news and events as it becomes available by searching the hashtag #GirlsinTechKC.
Students learn about problem solving, the scientific method, and the engineering design process as well as teamwork. The seasons vary by age group but take place primarily during the school year, leading up to world championships in late spring. To find a team, start by checking with your school. 4-H clubs and other youth organizations also organize teams.
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY pltw.org
Project Lead the Way is a curriculum offered in the majority of school districts in the area. The hands-on, project-based program engages students from kindergarten through 12th grade, exposing them to areas of study like engineering technology, civil engineering, and biomedical science. Teachers are provided with training, resources, and support to engage students in real-world learning. Projects include meeting with area business professionals who serve as mentors. To get involved, check with your local school district.
SCIENCE PIONEERS (powered by Science City at Union Station) sciencepioneers.org Science Pioneers offers Expanding Your Horizons each February to introduce middle school girls to STEM career opportunities. The Expanding Your Horizons program gives young women an opportunity to explore the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers in hands-on workshops.
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r a e D
KACIE HOW TO TELL PEOPLE YOU’VE LOST YOUR JOB
I recently lost my job. Is it best to avoid telling acquaintances about my job situation or should I let everyone know?
Whether you were fired or let go because of a downsizing situation, it never hurts to put feelers out to your network about job opportunities. Your first reaction may be to shy away from social interactions because you might be ashamed of losing your job. But this is the wrong approach. Putting yourself out in the world is often the path to new ideas, opportunities, and energy. It is, however, important to take time to mourn the loss of your job. You’re a human being — you have a right to feel unhappy. But it’s important not to dwell. Instead, refocus on the positive aspects of your life. Once you’ve given yourself enough time and space to come to terms with your new situation, you should get in touch with your acquaintances. Sending a simple email to all your contacts is an easy way to see what opportunities might be available. And if you run into an acquaintance and the topic of careers comes up, it absolutely makes sense to mention that you’re looking for a new job. You never know who might be able to help you.
If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to our managing editor at: ashley@simplykcmag.com.
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INFOCUS
Written by Rebecca Fischer | Photos by Jamie Squire
Chris and Christy Bradford, owners of KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions
GET WHOLESALE PRICES ON CARPETS AND RUGS AT 2 AREA STORES For Chris Bradford, the decision to sell carpets and rugs came very easily. He was just 5 years old when he began his immersion in the world of floor coverings. “Carpets and rugs are all I’ve ever known,” he says. “I started out helping my dad, just with very simple things, but it’s amazing how much you pick up when you start young.”
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That early start set him on track to become one of Kansas City’s most well-known and respected sellers of oriental rugs, custom area rugs, and wholesale carpets. With almost 30 years as creator and owner of Area Rug Dimensions, and later KC Wholesale Carpet, Bradford says it’s his background helping his dad, a carpet layer/installer working with luxurious
carpets and handmade Persian rugs, that’s had the biggest impact on his success. More than anything, customer service made an impact on the young Bradford, and he knew early on that his future also lay in making people happy by providing the best carpets and rugs available. “I’ve had carpet installed in four different homes, and Chris provided the best sales experience, the best installation, the best service — handsdown. It was a fantastic experience from start to finish,” says customer Robert Downs. A native to the KC area, Bradford
opened KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions with the promise of offering wholesale prices and outstanding customer service. Wholesale prices are available at all times to avoid the hassles and haggling that comes with marking up carpets and then offering sales.
biggest variety of floor coverings in the KC area, but the area rugs can be customized completely to fit personal needs and preferences. If you see a rug with a pattern you like but not the color, you can have one made in a different color. Same goes for size, shape, texture, softness, etc.
Wholesale prices are available at all times to avoid the hassles and haggling that comes with marking up carpets and then offering sales.
“In all my years of business, I hardly ever sell the same rug twice,” Bradford says.
“This way, people know they’re getting the lowest price I can offer,” Bradford explains. “That’s the way I like to shop.” Bradford opened KC Wholesale Carpet to give his customers even more floor-covering offerings. His intention initially was to make the business a franchise, but he soon learned it would be impossible to provide the level of customer service and variety of offerings without his own experience and personal touch to back it up. Both businesses benefit from Bradford’s lifelong experience with custom floor options but also stand apart from other carpet and rug sellers and installers because of their in-home analysis and rug-on-approval programs. Bradford (or one of his design experts) is available to visit each customer’s home and perform a needs and style evaluation. For example, a large family with pets might not realize that their carpet and rug needs are very different than that of a family without as much activity. From here, the design possibilities are just about endless. Not only do KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions both offer possibly the
You also have the option to take the rug home and try it before buying. As for carpets, Bradford applies his expertise to get the desired result for each client. For example, soft carpets are popular now, but they don’t offer the same performance as sturdier carpets. Thicker carpets wear well, and are also in style, but are hard to clean. Carpet pads can be adjusted to offer the feeling you want with the texture you prefer. All carpets are Stainmaster-branded and come with 25-year nonprorated warranties. Bradford offers a lifetime warranty on installation, although it is hardly ever necessary. To continue providing the best options and service for his customers, Bradford has recently added luxury vinyl-wood plank flooring to the list of available floor coverings. The highest-quality prefinished engineered wood is easy to install, never warps or requires refinishing or buffing, and has a superior finish to wood because the finish is applied before installation. “I enjoy making people happy with a great product and great service,” Bradford says. “It’s really pretty simple.” You can find KC Wholesale Carpet at 12619 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park (913.327.1361) and Area Rug Dimensions at 12623 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park (913.327.8784). Check out arearugdimensions.com and kcwholesalecarpetstores.com for more info.
SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 19
THIS SPRING, BUILD FUN OUTFITS BY COMBINING INNOVATIVE PIECES TO CREATE YOUR OWN STYLE. STRIKE A UNIQUE BALANCE WITH A COMBO OF CASUAL AND DRESSY COMPONENTS. PAIR PLAYFUL PATTERNS WITH TEXTURED SOLIDS, LEATHER FRINGE WITH COTTON JERSEY, OR LONG PENDANTS AND CHOKERS TOGETHER.
FASHION
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Aylsa Rene Boutique 11547 Ash St., Leawood, KS 913.906.9477
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Photography / Jeff Evrard Model / E liza Swan of Hoffman International Hair / Hunter Morris for Oliver’s Hair Salon Makeup / Melissa Evans
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INFOCUS
Written by Kelcie McKenney | Photos by Jamie Squire
Troy & Sara Lovins, owners of Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
LOCAL SPA BRINGS LUXURY TO EVERYONE Imagine a relaxing day spa with an expansive list of services, that feels soothing the moment you walk in the door, and has a staff that knows you by name. Does it sound too exclusive for anyone outside of Bel-Air? Think again. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa is a new addition to Leawood — the spa moved into the area last
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September. There, you’ll find an assortment of massage and facial treatments, as well as skin care lines — all at a reasonable price. “We offer affordable luxury,” says Troy Lovins, who owns Hand & Stone with his wife, Sara. “It’s an escape, a relaxing place, a place that is inviting and makes our clients feel welcomed and at home.”
Hand & Stone Massage’s introductory offers include a 50-minute massage or facial for about $50 — a price you’ll struggle to find elsewhere. And while wallet-friendly services are awesome, it’s your body and skin that reap the true benefits. Nichomi Dodds, a mother of five, happened across Hand & Stone within the spa’s first two weeks of opening. She
is part of its lifestyle program, a noncommittal membership that includes a free massage or facial every month. She frequently visits for back and pelvic pain relief.
“ We have the look and feel of a luxurious day spa, without the higher prices. When you’re here, you forget all your troubles and get that nice, relaxing departure from the stress of everyday life.” “Honestly, Hand & Stone, new as they are, is a best-kept secret. I couldn’t ask for a better place to go,” Dodds says. “I’m a mother; I have five kids total, I work an everyday job, I’m not high-end of anything, and I can walk in there and feel like I’m a rock star.” When it comes to massage, the treatments range from relaxing — like Swedish and couples massages — to more targeted — such as deep-tissue, sports, trigger-point, and pre-natal massages. But the stand-out service at Hand & Stone is its hot-stone massage.
The hot-stone massage at Hand & Stone is unlike a hot-stone service anywhere else. “Our stones start off quite warm, which requires constant motion and allows deeper penetration,” Lovins explains. “The heat really gets down into the tissue where the underlying issues are without the therapist having to use firmer pressure. So it’s ultra-relaxing and you get more benefit out of it.” The facials are also popular at Hand & Stone massage. The extensive list of facials includes LED skin phototherapy, microdermabrasion, and exfoliations and peels. Lovins plans to add microcurrent procedures early this year. Dodds, who regularly gets facials, meets with the same esthetician and always leaves feeling rejuvenated. “By the time I walk out of there, my face is glowing and I look probably three years younger,” she shares. And Lovins’ goal is for the rest of the community to have a similar experience. “I want Hand & Stone to become the premier facial spa in Johnson County,” he says. “Not only are we looking to
expand our female client base, but we have found that teenagers and men are also enjoying our highly customized services. Our skin care products are world-class, and we pride ourselves in hiring only the most talented and passionate estheticians, so you will know you are always in good hands at Hand & Stone.” With a large and diverse staff of massage therapists and estheticians, Hand & Stone prides itself on matching clients with service providers who can really target their needs. Whether you have back or neck pain, have a skin condition you want to target, or simply want to spend a day treating yourself, Hand & Stone is ready to help you relax. “We have the look and feel of a luxurious day spa, without the higher prices,” Lovins says. “When you’re here, you forget all your troubles and get that nice, relaxing departure from the stress of everyday life.” Find Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa at 11725 Roe Ave., Suite C, in Leawood. Call 913.225.9341 or visit handandstoneleawood.com to request an appointment.
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, o h W
Written by Melanie Knopke | Photo by Ryan Nicholson Photography
WHAT, WHERE Meet Andrew Bash
WHO: Andrew Bash— Kansas City’s top real estate broker in KC for more than 17 years. This well-dressed (and very funny) real-estate mogul is a huge Royals fan and loves all things Kansas City. WHAT: Known for its bright colored, eye-catching signs, and a renovated Air Stream called the “Bash Mobile,” the Bash Real Estate team (bashkc.com) is bringing an innovative full-service experience that leverages the latest technology to serve its clients. WHERE: Serving the KC metro area
FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT IN KC Port Fonda. I love the brunch, lunch, and dinner! It’s consistently delicious. FAVORITE DRINK IN KC Anything from Second Best Coffee. There is nothing like it and the people who work there make me happy. FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP IN KC I love Baldwin for casual clothing and I’ll hit Hudson and Jane or Hall’s if I need something a little fancier. FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS IN KC Haw Gallery. We are so fortunate to have a gallery of this caliber in our city. Bill and Emily have turned every member of my family into aspiring art collectors. My kids love to go there and pick out pieces they would like to buy someday and then eat lunch at Genessee Royal. FAVORITE PLACES TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS I love taking friends to Plate. Although it’s relatively new, there is something nostalgic about the space. It’s wonderful in every way.
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Be
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Written by Julie Burton | Photo by Samantha Levi
I SAID SO...
NO, THANK YOU I thought I was in the clear for a few years. My husband, Scott, and I are deep into the school-age years of parenting. It’s the period some might call the “honeymoon of parenting.” These are the years when the kids are independent enough to make their own dinners or take showers, yet aren’t old enough to roll their eyes and take off in their car. Honeymoon: the traditional holiday taken by newlyweds to celebrate their marriage in intimacy and seclusion. This ain’t no honeymoon. This is re-living your childhood. I don’t have any memory of being an infant or toddler. I barely remember kindergarten or even life-changing events like my siblings being born. The pieces I remember from my early childhood probably stem more from looking at pictures than the memory itself. Like every parent, Scott and I didn’t know what we were doing. Once Emma learned how to talk, the first thing we did was film her saying “Tequila shots!” Our daughters are now in fifth and second grades. Recently, they each tried out for two separate things they’re passionate for. They both didn’t get it while other kids did. They both got the “sorry, you’re not good enough” slip handed to them on their way out. To make it worse, they happened to receive their news on the same day. They came home with their hearts ripped out, humiliated for even thinking they were good enough. They swore every kid pointed and laughed at them. And they vowed to never pursue anything that required a try-out. I know the feeling. Whether it comes from a
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teacher or a peer, someone telling you you’re not good enough feels like a slap in the face. The real world caught up to the two babies we have no idea how to raise. The world in which everyone makes the team ended last night. Emma and Kate learned that there are kids out there better than they are. They learned about rejection. “No, thank you” is hard to hear, even as an adult. I told the girls they are braver than I was at their age. As a child, I didn’t try out for anything. If it involved a stage or drawing attention to me, I didn’t want to do it. My rejections came more from friendships. Scott’s rejections were always sports-related. Even now, I told the girls every book they read in school has a pile of authors who received rejection letters. Rejection comes with the writing territory. I expect the answer is no — and often it is. But that doesn’t stop me from trying again.
Parenting is hard. You trade sleepless nights for toddler tantrums. You trade toddler tantrums for your preschooler yelling, “Tequila shots!” to the class. You trade “tequila shots” outbursts for facing rejection. But I don’t need to tell any parent that.
Julie Burton is a mom, wife, writer, outdoorswoman by marriage, K-State lover, and bacon-hater living in Overland Park. Her work has been featured on WordPress’s Freshly Pressed. She contributes to the blogs “The Good Men Project” and “Sammiches and Psych Meds.” Burton’s an ambassador for National Geographic Kids and has also been named one of the Today Show’s “funniest parents.” And yes, she really does hate bacon. Please don’t drop her as a friend.
Scott and I went to bed that night feeling worthless because our kids felt worthless. Our memories of rejection resurfaced. Our kids are going through the part of life we actually remember.
Follow Julie at: bug-bytes.net facebook.com/julieaburton twitter.com/ksujulie instagram.com/ksujulie
I realized the only way I handle rejection is through maturity, something both girls don’t have yet.
I just hope they come out with more courage.
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BE WELL
Written by Jason Bessey, DO, Shawnee Mission Primary Care – Blue Valley
HOW TO KNOW IF IT’S ‘JUST A COLD’ — OR SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS
“I’m sick. How do I know if it’s just a cold?” As primary care doctors, we get this question a lot in our clinic. Understandably, people aren’t always sure whether the sickness they’ve come down with is something they should get checked out, or simply a common cold that eventually will go away on its own. The cold is a leading cause of doctor visits and missed days from school and work. According to the CDC, 22 million school days are lost annually in the U.S. because of the common cold. (That’s a lot of missed algebra quizzes!) Most children get six to 10 colds per year and most adults get one to two colds per year. So, with the common cold being so, well, common, how can you tell if an illness is more than just a pesky but relatively harmless run-of-themill cold? First, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about what a cold is. Colds are highly contagious viral infections of the nose and throat. You’re probably familiar with the symptoms: congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, coughing, headache, and feeling run down. As miserable as these symptoms can make us feel, here’s the truth: Most colds go away within seven to 10 days, with or without treatment. But, sometimes when you get sick and have these symptoms, it ends up being more than just the common cold. You may be hit with additional symptoms that could indicate
something a little (or a lot) more serious. Here are some red flags to look out for: • Trouble breathing, including wheezing • A fever above 102 degrees •F lu-like symptoms: muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, fever •W orsening of a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes, asthma, or COPD •S ymptoms that last for more than 10 days or worsen after five days • Pain or pressure in your chest • Fainting or feeling like you are about to faint • Confusion or disorientation • Severe pain in your face, especially the forehead •H oarseness, sore throat or a cough that doesn’t go away after 10 days If you have any of these red-flag symptoms, it is likely you have something more than just the common cold. If you’re having trouble breathing or are experiencing chest pain or severe dehydration, I recommend going to the emergency room. If you’ve got any of these other red-flag symptoms, a primary care physician can help you determine the cause and get you on the path to feeling better.
Jason Bessey, DO, is a physician at Shawnee Mission Primary Care – Blue Valley. Dr. Bessey and his wife, Lauren Bessey, DO, are passionate about overall wellness and they treat patients of all ages at their south Johnson County office. SMPC-Blue Valley is temporarily located inside Centra Care Shawnee Mission Urgent Care near 135th and Antioch. In March, the practice will move to Shawnee Mission Health’s new Overland Park campus near 159th and 69 Highway. To make an appointment with either Dr. Jason or Dr. Lauren, visit SMPC-Blue Valley’s website or call 913.373.2230.
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INFOCUS
Written by Brennan Hallock | Photos by Jamie Squire
Anthony and Rachel Giordono opened Compound Fitness in hopes of teaching clients how exercising can be a lifestyle change.
COMPOUND HEALTH AND FITNESS: EXERCISE, EAT, RELAX When you think of a gym, you probably imagine treadmills, weight sets, televisions, and locker rooms. Maybe you think of goals, sweat, and triumphs, too. But when your workout is finished and you’ve cleaned up, you head home with a simple goodbye or nod to an acquaintance. There is little for you at the gym afterward.
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Husband-and-wife team Anthony and Rachel Giordono created Compound Health and Fitness in June 2011 because they wanted their gym to be more like home. A place for family. Families eat together, chat, and deepen relationships with each other. Families also exercise together. Anthony and Rachel believe the gym should be more than simply a place
to work out — they want fitness to be a lifestyle rather than something you do a few times a week. “When we designed our gym, we wanted people to see and feel that transition from the gym to their regular lives,” Anthony says. “We want our space to be like a home, not like a sterile gym.” Rachel says the space feels unique because it’s set up like a home — it even includes a fully equipped kitchen. “It’s meant to be very comfort-
able, not intimidating,” she explains. “We really want to encompass other factors besides just coming in to get your workout and then going.” Compound Health and Fitness promotes a culture of well-being through a holistic approach. “It’s really about developing a certain lifestyle,” Anthony says. “We bring the community together and support it. Our goal is just to help clients develop that healthy lifestyle and have a it transcend their time at the gym. It becomes part of your life when you learn to eat well, move well, and think well.”
“ W hen you walk off the gym floor, the kitchen is right there to commune in and talk with people. Then, there’s a living room area for you to sit in. The point is that when you step out of the gym, these practices don’t stop. They need to be a part of your life, in your household, or wherever you are.” Anthony and Rachel accomplish this goal by providing classes about healthy living and encouraging camaraderie among clients. “We have our space set up so when you walk off the gym floor, the kitchen is right there to commune in and talk with other people. We also use it for the health and nutritional classes. Then, there’s a living room area for you to sit in,” Anthony
says. “The point is that when you step out of the gym, these practices don’t stop. They need to be a part of your life, in your household, or wherever you are.” The couple believes the classes provide the opportunity for their clients to learn about holistic health rather than just exercise. “For our community nights, we often connect with outside vendors and restaurants whose main focus is healthy food or drink,” he says. “Then people know where in the community they can get the right foods that still taste good to stay on track.” Community nights include classes on whole foods, healthy grocery shopping, healthy cooking, and meal preparation. “I talk a lot about what I call ‘meal remakes,’” Anthony explains. “For example, here’s how you can make delicious meals like lasagna, pasta, hamburger, barbecue, and different things people really enjoy but overdo at restaurants. I teach how you can make them healthier, but still enjoy those types of flavors.” These community nights also boost camaraderie among clients and help them form new friendships with others that share the same healthy goals. “We realized a lot of social events happen around food and drink,” he says. “People don’t want to give up their social activity and time with their friends or family, but at the same time, those moments shouldn’t also mean giving up their commitment to their health.” Compound Fitness and Health is located at 6741 W. 119th St. in Overland Park. Call 913.815.2050 or visit compoundhealthandfitness.com for more information.
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FINANCE
UNDERSTANDING 401(K)S AND IRAS
Retirement planning can be confusing. It’s tricky enough to make sure you’re saving as much as you should, and sometimes trickier to understand the ins and outs of the best tools you can use to save. The two most popular types of retirement savings accounts are 401(k)s and IRAs. They both offer benefits, but you may be unsure of the differences between the two. Make sure you’re retirement-savings savvy with a solid understanding of both of them.
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401(K)S 401(k)s get their name from section 401(k) of the IRS tax code. They are often the first place many start saving for retirement as a young adult at a first job. One of the biggest perks of a 401(k) is that employers usually offer a matching contribution — such as a percentage per dollar up to a certain amount. Not taking advantage of an employer match is like leaving money on the table, as they say, so it’s import-
ant to invest at least as much as your employer will match and ideally sock away more than that. Another upside to 401(k)s is that employees can invest a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out, so they reduce the amount of income tax they will have to pay. A 401(k) will typically offer an assortment of mutual funds to choose from and will be managed by a plan administrator hired by the employer. In 2015, individuals may contribute up to $18,000 in a 401(k) account annually,
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FINANCE
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or $24,000 if over the age of 50. One downside to a 401(k) may be that you’re given a limited number of investment choices depending on the plan your employer offers. There will also be hefty penalties if you try to take money from your account before reaching retirement age. And, you will still pay taxes when you withdraw money from the 401(k) as with any other income. If you leave your job, it’s simple to roll the funds from your 401(k) account into an IRA or another 401(k) at a new job. It may be tempting to let your old employer cut you a check. But this won’t just set you back in your retirement planning — you’ll also have to pay taxes and fees. So don’t do it.
IRAS An Individual Retirement Account
limited to the mutual funds offered by a plan administrator, IRAs offer the flexibility of many more investment options — yet it will be up to you and your financial adviser to make sure you are putting your money in the right place. To make matters more confusing, there are different kinds of IRAs: 1. W ith a traditional IRA, you can save pre-tax dollars but will still pay income taxes when you take distributions from the account down the road. 2. W ith a Roth IRA, you pay taxes upfront with the incentive of being able to take distributions later without paying taxes on them. This perk is especially advantageous for the many people who will be in a lower tax bracket at a younger age. The only catch is that the government only lets those who make under a certain income contribute to a Roth IRA — less than $116,000 for single
people and less than $183,000 for married people. In 2015, the maximum annual contribution into either type of IRA is $5,500, or $6,500 for those over age 50. This contribution limit does not apply to funds being rolled over from another account. The more you make a habit of saving for retirement well in advance, the better off you’ll be. Of course the ideal plan is to invest the maximum amount allowed in both a 401(k) and an IRA each year. You can try stashing cash under a mattress, but these two tools are worthwhile for anyone wanting to create a nest egg for their golden years. As with any complex financial matter, be sure to do your own due diligence and seek the advice of a trusted financial adviser.
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PARENTING
Written by Julie Burton
NO SHELLFISH FOR YOU: RAISING A CHILD WITH A FOOD ALLERGY
No previous surgeries. No medications. No medical conditions. No known drug allergies. No known allergies. No known allergies. It’s called NKA in shorthand speak. NKA will never be written on my daughter’s charts again. Every medical professional told me the same thing: “Your daughter’s next exposure to shellfish could be fatal.” Your daughter. Fatal. It took one weekend to become that mom. It took two California sushi rolls, made with crab, over a span of two days. I became the mom who reads food labels and questions waiters. The hives appeared first on my daughter, Kate. We didn’t know what caused them. It could have been anything. Maybe her sheets hadn’t been washed or maybe there
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was something outside that bothered her skin. It could have been a virus. The hives faded.
the crab. She should have said “No, I’m not eating that! That’s Sebastian from The Little Mermaid!”
We ate crab for lunch the next day. Within the hour, Kate’s hives came back and they worsened. Her face swelled. Her hands and feet swelled. She said her throat hurt but her breathing appeared normal. We kept Benadryl in her every four hours.
Her hives faded the next day and the swelling disappeared. My mom instinct nagged me. I emailed the school nurse and Kate’s pediatrician. It wasn’t a virus. No. Something was wrong with her. She was not OK.
At 2 a.m., with Kate scratching her body in her sleep beside me, it clicked — the crab. Parties, restaurants, dinners, every meal Kate ate in her seven years flashed through my mind. I couldn’t think of a time she ate shellfish. She’s never eaten lobster. “Gross, it looks like a big bug!” She’s never eaten shrimp. “Ew! I’m not eating that! There’s poop in that!” She’s never eaten crab. The crab. She shouldn’t have eaten
Dr. Derrick Ward is an allergist at Kansas City Allergy and Asthma Associates in Overland Park. He has not examined Kate but is familiar with kids like her. “An allergy occurs when there is an overreaction in the immune system to something that’s harmless to most people,” Dr. Ward says. “The body’s immune system reacts by causing symptoms.” Food allergy, food sensitivity, and food intolerance are words that are used interchangeably — but they don’t all mean the same thing.
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From an immunology standpoint, a food sensitivity is a positive allergy test but the child will have no clinical symptoms. A food intolerance is when a child has a side effect, usually GI troubles, after eating a certain food and are not life-threatening. There is no test for most food intolerances. The most common food allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, and shellfish. Every child with a food allergy will respond differently. Symptoms can range from hives, lips swelling, and throat swelling to anxiety, vomiting, and anaphylaxis (also called anaphylactic shock) — which is when the blood pressure suddenly drops, leading to death. Symptoms can affect any organ in the body, which is why having an allergy is a potentially dangerous scenario. Not only do the symptoms vary, but the sensitivity to the allergen — or how much the child can tolerate before symptoms appear — can vary as well. “Testing for food allergies in the blood can predict if there is an allergen but it won’t predict how the child will react. Allergies change and evolve over time as well,” Dr. Ward explains. “We don’t want parents to get a false sense of security and set themselves up for tragedy.” The best way to test for a food allergy is a skin test, also called a scratch test, performed at an allergy clinic. A drop of liquid extract from the suspected allergen is placed on the skin. A small needle is pricked into the skin where the drop is. If the child is allergic, a small hive or welt will appear.
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Dr. Ward says he doesn’t know why food allergies are becoming more common in recent years. There are theories but no clear answer. One ground-breaking study may help curb the number of kids with food allergies. “As of January 2017, doctors are recommending parents start introducing peanuts, eggs, shellfish, wheat, and soy as soon as the child is healthy and able to eat solid foods,” he says. “The old recommendation to avoid food allergens until the child is 3 caused more harm than good.” Maybe I should have given Kate crab cakes as a baby. I will never know the reason why she can’t eat shellfish. My mom instinct was right and I listened to the doctors. NKA will never be written on my daughter’s charts again.
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UNCORKED TOUR Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the places and people making some of KC’s best beer, wine, and liquor. You’ll stop at Amigoni Winery, Boulevard Brewing Co., and J. Rieger & Co Distillery. $65 per adult. 12:45–5 p.m. Friday. barleybus.com/uncorkedtour
STREETCAR FOOD & WALKING HISTORICAL TOUR 2 KC Snack along nearly 2.25 miles of downtown Kansas City. The Streetcar
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KC BARBECUE TOURS You’ll hit four barbecue restaurants serving up a portion of each joint’s best smoked meats and side dishes on on this four-hour tour. You’ll also get a tour of KC’s historic neighborhoods and a behind-the-scenes look at how the food is prepared, smoked, and served. $62. 11:15 a.m. Saturday. kcbarbecuetours.com/tours.html KC DOUBLE DECKER TOURS Sit on the top deck of this bus to see the views of Kansas City’s most popular and nationally recognized attractions, neighborhoods, entertainment, and shopping districts. The Single Loop Tour will show you the ins and outs of our sensational city. $20 per adult (13+ years old), $15 per child (5–12 years old). Multiple times on Saturday, Sunday, Monday. kansascitydoubledeckertours.com PEDAL HOPPER Spend two hours biking through Waldo and Brookside on a unique party bike that’s powered by you and 15 of your friends. You’ll stop at two bars during the ride. $360 Friday–Saturday, $320 Sunday–Thursday. pedalhopper.com/kc KANSAS CITY FUN TOURS Get acquainted with the popular sights and local favorites that KC has to offer during this fully narrated 75-minute, 15-mile tour aboard an authentic, air-conditioned trolley. $20 per adult, $10 per child (12 years old and younger). 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. Saturday–Sunday. kcfuntours.com GANGSTER TOUR Our city was a favorite spot among the “old timers.” The Gangster Tour puts you hot on the trail of this city’s most notorious goodfellas. Hop on the bus and you’ll be immersed in a melodramatic look at mobster homes and hangouts, turf wars, and infamous crimes like the Union Station massacre. $29 per adult. 1 p.m. Saturday. thekctours.com/gangster-tour.html
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HAPPENINGS
JAN – MAR Spectrum: Autism, Art & Music americanjazzmuseum.org/exhibitions MAR 3 Browne’s Irish Market & Deli Celebrates 130th Anniversary Whiskey Tasting, Browne’s Irish Market & Deli, 3300 Pennsylvania Ave, KCMO 816.561.0030 / brownesmarket.com MAR 4 Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway Blvd, KCMO 8–10 pm tickets.kauffmancenter.org MAR 4 The Folly Jazz Series: Cyrus Chestnut Trio featuring Warren Wolf Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 8 pm MAR 4–12 The Lyric Opera’s Dead Man Walking Michael and Ginger Frost Production Arts Building, 712 E 18th St, KCMO 816.471.7344 / kcopera.org MAR 5 75th Anniversary Celebration Vintage Fashion Show With Tea and Pastries Historic Thompson Homestead Barn, 11184 Lackman Road, Lenexa, KS 816.826.8832 / greaterkansascity. altrusa.org 3–5 pm MAR 7 Folly Kids Series: The Rainbow Fish Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 9:45 and 11:30 am 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org MAR 8–12 2017 Greater Kansas City International Auto Show Bartle Hall Convention Center, 301 W 13th St, KCMO kcautoshow.com MAR 11 Second Annual Uncorked: KC Champagne and Wine Festival Union Station Kansas City 1–5 and 6–9 pm MAR 12 30th Annual Irishpalooza, Martin City’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration!
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816.308.1023 / irishpalooza.com 8:30 am Whiskey Run, 11:30 am best-dressed dog contest, 12:30 pm prince and princess contest, 2 pm parade, 3:30 pm Elders perform MAR 12 35th Annual Shawnee St. Patrick’s Day: The Shawnee Irish Rock 913.236.9290 / irishamericanclub.org MAR 15–16 Decades Entertainment Presents: Decades Rewind Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 7:30 pm MAR 16–18 Vintage Market Days® Spring Event Zona Rosa, 8640 N Dixson Ave, KCMO vintagemarketdays.com MAR 17 St. Pat’s Happy Hour Show With Bon Ton! Kanza Hall, 7300 W 119th St, OPKS 5 pm
bacchuskc.ejoinme.org 7 pm–midnight MAR 25–26 Heartland Men’s Chorus: Identity Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 8 pm Saturday, 4 pm Sunday MAR 29 Symphony Happy Hour Concert: You Had Me at Cello Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, KCMO tickets.kauffmancenter.org 6 pm MAR 29 – APR 2 Disney on Ice: Follow Your Heart Sprint Center, 1407 Grand Blvd, KCMO 816.949.7000 / sprintcenter.com MAR 30 – APR 15 MET’s 12th Season: Tennessee Playboy Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, 3614 Main, KCMO 816.569.3226 / metkc.org
MAR 31 THE HARRIMAN-JEWELL SERIES: Anne-Sophie Mutter, Violinist in Recital with longtime collaborative pianist Lambert Orkis Folly Theater, 300 W 12th Street, KCMO; 7:30pm 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org MAR 31 – APR 1 Wild West Vintage, Antiques, & Garden Show American Royal Ct, KCMO 816.217.7218 / wildwestbottoms. com MAR 31 – APR 9 KC Ballet 2016–2017 Season: The Sleeping Beauty Muriel Kauffman Theatre, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway, KCMO 816.931.2232 / kcballet.org
MAR 17–18 Toughest Monster Truck Tour Silverstein Eye Centers Arena, 19100 E Valley View Pkwy, Independence, MO silversteineyecentersarena.com 7:30 pm MAR 17 – APR 9 A Raisin in the Sun KC Repertory Theatre, Spencer Theatre, 4949 Cherry, KCMO 816.235.2700 / kcrep.org MAR 18–19 Kansas City Pet Expo, Hale Arena, 1701 American Royal Ct, KCMO 800.977.3609 / kansascitypetexpo.com 10 am–6 pm Saturday, 11 am–4 pm Sunday MAR 23 – MAY 7 Over the River and Through the Woods Chestnut Fine Arts Center, 234 N Chestnut, Olathe, KS 913.764.2121 / chestnutfinearts.com 7:30 pm Thursday–Saturday, 2 pm select Saturdays and Sunday, 7:30 am select Wednesdays MAR 25 62nd Annual Bacchus Ball: Havana Nights Grand Ballroom, InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, 401 Ward Pkwy, KCMO
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