SIMPLYkc Magazine April 2019 by SIMPLYkc Magazine

RESORT STREET STYLE FOR EVERY DAY

LOCAL ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS

Parenting Parents

APR â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;19 | Vol. 8 No. 12

THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS

INFOCUS

KC WHOLESALE CARPET AND AREA RUG DIMENSIONS

AROUND TOWN

KANSAS CITY DESIGN WITH JENNIFER BERTRAND

HOME

MASTERING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

BEAUTIFUL

TEETH MAKE A DIFFERENCE

12850 Metcalf Ave., Ste. 200 Overland Park, KS 66213 2

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Schedule a FREE consultation today! 913-491-6874 www.kcsmile.com

DISCOVER

Renewal

Passion

YOUR

BEST SELF

Vitality

BEGIN the JOURNEY that will CHANGE YOUR LIFE! NOW OFFERING

Weight Loss Surgery/ Sleeve Gastrectomy/Lap Band:

STEM CELL THERAPY The newest advancement in umbilical cord stem cell therapy regenerative medicine. • Rapid recovery and restoration • Non-invasive application • Regenerative cells can stimulate your own body at the cellular level

Rapid weight loss • Short hospital stay • Decreased nutrition risk • Improvement of diabetes

Stem Cell Therapy:

Regenerate damaged joints & tissue, such as the knee • Stimulates regenerative healing • Eliminate pain and possibly avoid surgery

HCG Weight Loss:

All HCG programs are not alike! • HCG injections provided better & quicker results • Contact us about our multi-phase HCG Program

Phentermine:

Suppresses appetite & increases the metabolism

Testosterone Replacement Therapy: Improve muscle mass & strength • Boost energy & improve sexual desire

Bio Identical Hormone Therapy: Replacement of hormones normally produced by the body for women & men

Those with previous Lap-Band/Gastric Sleeve surgery are Welcome!

What will you discover? Come visit Dr. Jesse Lopez...

Schedule your appointment today!

1-866-516-SLIM

Specialist in Weight Loss Surgery & Anti-Aging Medicine

CATIO NEW LO

913-647-3999 • akasacare.com • 7201 W. 110th St., Ste.120, OVPK, KS Free Insurance Benefit Verification prior to your visit.

CONTENTS

THE LIST 7 FLORAL FAVORITES

WHO WHAT WHERE 10 CARLY ROBINSON

AROUND TOWN 12

KANSAS CITY DESIGN WITH JENNIFER BERTRAND

IN FOCUS 14

A LIFETIME OF HEALTHY TEETH AT JENKINS & LEBLANC DENTISTRY

BE WELL 16

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO TAKE DIABETES RISK TO HEART

DEAR KACIE 20 LIGHTWEIGHT FRIENDS

HOME 22

MASTERING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

DISH 24

MICHAEL SMITH, FARINA EXECUTIVE CHEF

FASHION 26 BEACH CHIC

IN FOCUS 32

HGTV COMES TO LIFE: KC WHOLESALE CARPET AND AREA RUG DIMENSIONS

PARENTING 34 THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS

IN FOCUS 38

SAVE, INC. OFFERS SUPPORT FOR KANSAS CITIANS IN NEED

BEAUTY 40

DECISION FATIGUE KILLS CREATIVITY ... OR NOT

GOOD TASTES 42

SWISS CHARD RAVIOLI WITH SAGE BUTTER SAUCE

BECAUSE I SAID SO 44 GOING GRAY

APP OF THE MONTH 47 KEEP TABS ON YOUR FAMILY

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

7 THINGS 48

LOCAL ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS

Now ! g n i r e f Of

No Surgery. No Downtime. Just Results. Sculpture body contouring technology is able to target and can reduce fat cells safely in just 25 minutes without affecting the skin’s surface. Customizable treatment plans • Over 90% patient satisfaction rate • FDA cleared

Joseph C. Camarata, M.D., D.M.D. Dr. Camarata takes the time with each patient to discuss questions, concerns, goals and expectations. He treats every individual as a person of worth, dignity and value, as they work together to achieve their aesthetic goals.

12541 FOSTER ST., SUITE 330 • OVERLAND PARK, KS 66213 aestheticsurgicalarts-kc.com • miabelladonnamedspa.com

(913) 851-7447 5

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

LETTING THEM GO This summer will be a turning point for me and my son Carson. This is the year he starts to drive. It’s a blessing and a curse. It’s great in that it provides mobility and a milestone for maturity, but a curse in that it’s extremely nerve-wracking. It’s really no surprise that, according to a study by Ford Motors, turning kids loose in the car on public roads worries parents more than drug addiction or unwanted pregnancy. I’ve been white-knuckling it in the passenger seat for months as he’s become more comfortable in the driver’s seat. Despite all the practice he’s had, it’s one thing to sit beside him and coach. But when I’m not there, I begin to imagine all the things that could go wrong. And, even though the age of smartphones brings more opportunity for distracted driving, mobile apps that track driving habits are becoming parents’ eyes and ears as teens journey out on their own. Life360, which we feature in our App of the Month column on page 47, is one such product. You can see how your teen spends his time, including where he’s been and how he got there, over the last 30 days. And you can instantly see where your teen is when you open the app. I, for one, am downloading Life360—on my phone and Carson’s— immediately. I’ll take any peace of mind I can get ... no matter how he feels about it. Happy Spring, SIMPLYkc Magazine readers. Be safe out there on the roads.

Suzanne Steiner, Publisher

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

PHOTO BY JENNY WHEAT

THE LIST

Floral

WRITTEN BY LEAH LOWE / PHOTOS BY JAMI MARSHALL

FAVORITES

“April showers bring May flowers,” so the saying goes. But who says you can’t go full force floral in April too? From accessories to gorgeous home décor that not only looks pretty but smells like the sweet days of spring too, we’ve got you covered.

1. 6.

4. 5.

FRANKIE AND JULES BOUTIQUE (Inside Threshing Bee) 5501 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS frankieandjules.com/accessories

1. Floral Silk Scarf - $18

NELL HILL’S

Nell Hill’s, 4101 N. Mulberry Dr., KCMO nellhills.com

2. Ginger Jar Vase - $18 3. Faux Floral Bushels - $9.50

4. Pickwick & Co Nell Hill’s Exclusive Candle - $26

FITWEAR BOUTIQUE

(Inside Threshing Bee) 5501 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS fitwearboutique.shoptiques.com

5. BANDO Floral thermos - $14 6. BANDO Palm Leaf Charger - $30 7. Earth Warriors Floral Hair Ties - $14

Leah Lowe is a KC native and the owner + creator of Elle Mae, a fashion, beauty and lifestyle blog. Leah shares her favorite fashions, beauty products, home décor and a glimpse inside her daily life through her blog ellemae.blog and Instagram @ellemaeblog.

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

Now open & ready for Stylists! Discover the difference!

PUBLISHER Suzanne Steiner, suz@simplykcmag.com MANAGING EDITOR Brennan Hallock, editor@simplykcmag.com PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Houts of Beth Houts Photography, Jami Marshall of Electric Imagez, Jenny Wheat of Wheat Photography, Samantha Levi of Samantha Levi Photography, Emily Bordner, Melanie McDowell

Schedule a Tour TODAY and Ask about Sign-On Specials & CA$H for Referrals!

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ashley Puderbaugh, Brennan Hallock, David Marks, Gina Reardon, Julie Burton, Leah Lowe, Rebecca Fischer, T.E. Cunningham ART DIRECTOR Julie Faerman ADVERTISING Brandy Barrish, Sales Manager, 816.223.9395, brandy@simplykcmag.com INQUIRIES SIMPLYkc Magazine, 11730 W. 135th St., Ste. 116, Overland Park, KS 66221 913.209.9394, contact@simplykcmag.com, simplykcmag.com

Call TODAY 913-302-1592 COVER & FASHION IMAGES PHOTOS Beth Houts, Beth Houts Photography, 913.486.8120, bethhouts.com, @bethhoutsphotography

Convenient location off 69 Hwy in Overland Park – tons of parking!

MODEL • Noelle Manica with Voices& Modeling and Talent Agency, 118 Walnut, Suite 120, Kansas City, MO, 816.753.4261, voicesand.com, @voicesandmodels WARDROBE • Lady Bye, 6245 Brookside Plaza, Kansas City, MO, 816.678.7803, ladybyekc.com, @ladybyekc • Coco, 112 W. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO, coco-brookside.myshopify.com, @cocobrookside HAIR • Summer Johnson, Master Stylist at Catered Beauty located inside Aspen Salon, 9926 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS, 913.909.9227, @summerjohnsonhair MAKEUP • Jami Roth, @beautybyjamiroth

Brand New Private Suites with all the Ammenities including central vac & more! Pamper your clients in our Processing Lounge with Massage Chairs & Coffee Bar!

WARDROBE STYLIST • Leah Lowe, ellemae.blog, @ellemaeblog SHOT ON LOCATION • The Fontaine Hotel, 901 W. 48th Pl., Kansas City, MO, @thefontainehotel

PUBLISHER’S NOTE IMAGE PHOTO Jenny Wheat, Wheat Photography, 115 W. 18th St., #200, Kansas City, MO, 816.695.9542, @wheatphotography WARDROBE Standard Style, 451 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO, 913.685.4464 HAIR Katie Zehel, Oliver’s Hair Salon, Rosana Square, 7590 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS, 913.338.2266, @olivershairsalon MAKEUP Jami Roth, @mua_jamiroth

Visit Us Online tranquilitysalonsuites.com 14884 Metcalf Ave. - Overland Park, KS

913-302-1592

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. ©2019, Mach Publications, LLC.

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Expert ER Care That Saves More Than Just Time

AdventHealth Shawnee Mission is known for wholeperson care. And with our connected network, you’ll also see the same trusted physicians at our Lenexa and South Overland Park locations. So no matter where you are in the Johnson County community, we’re here to help you feel whole. AdventHealthKC.com/ER

Emergency SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

, o h W

PHOTO BY EMILY BORDNER

WHAT, WHERE

Meet Carly Robinson Who: What:

CARLY ROBINSON OF CARLY RAE STUDIO You may know her as Carly Rae Studio—the floral watercolor artist who paints soft, whimsical prints. Her work is sold all over Kansas City boutiques, bookshops, and even nationwide at Bed Bath & Beyond and Kohl’s. Robinson starts her prints with a sketch in pencil, then fills in the sketch with colors in the way of tiny florals. She also draws from nature scenes, sports, animals, and sunshine, and her work radiates happiness. Visit Carly Rae Studio at carlyraestudio.com for prints and workshop information. Her newest adult and child coloring book is titled Be Wild and Free: Whimsical Floral Wildlife. She also offers watercolor workshops for those interested in learning about painting watercolors.

Where:

FAVORITE PLACE TO DINE I looove all of the good food here in KC. If I had to pick one place, I would probably go with Lidia’s, because who doesn’t love a bottomless pasta trio?

FAVORITE DRINK Some of my favorite whiskey drinks are at Rye. If you haven’t tried “The Old Square,” you are missing out.

FAVORITE SHOPPING Made in KC Marketplace on the Plaza is my new go-to spot for gifts made by other local makers. The store is huge and has something for everyone— art, food, drinks, T-shirts, chocolate, and more awesome things.

FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS My favorite yoga studio, Maya Yoga, is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s well known in the local yoga community, but it is tucked away on the second floor in the middle of the Crossroads.

FAVORITE PLACES TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS The view from the WWI Memorial is the best spot in the city to see the layout and landmarks of Kansas City.

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

AROUND TOWN

KANSAS CITY DESIGN WITH JENNIFER BERTRAND WRITTEN BY BRENNAN HALLOCK / PHOTO PROVIDED BY JENNIFER BERTRAND

Designer and Kansas City native Jennifer Bertrand has appeared in numerous media outlets, including USA Today, The New York Post, Rachel Ray Magazine, Life & Style Magazine, InStyle Magazine, and HGTV. On HGTV, she won the reality show Design Star and now hosts her own show called Paint Over!

But this is only a fraction of what Bertrand does with her life. As a leader in the area of home décor, Bertrand says Kansas City holds its own in the area of design and she is happy to call this city home. There are several areas in particular that Bertrand has been excited about lately. These include the local nonprofit opportunities, the wellness trend in Kansas City, where Kansas City stands as a leader in the design world, and the many resources tucked away in the KC metro.

Kansas City Nonprofits “Kansas City is a huge giving city,” says Bertrand. “Any time I have ever needed help with a project, all I’ve had to do is a Facebook request and people come out of the woodwork to help.” And she says that if you want to give back to Kansas City, there are a million ways to do it. This is why Bertrand has made it a point to give to people in the city she loves through nonprofits. “I feel like there isn’t a nonprofit I don’t work with,” says Bertrand. When it comes to working with design, though, she says Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City is one she really enjoys. “I have a son who has had a lot of medical adventures. I really get to tie in the psychology of the mind and environment in my design work—and plus it’s just fun. You get to do whimsical design and do it from the perspective of a mom who has actually experienced it.” This isn’t the only nonprofit Bertrand is helping. Wayside Ways, a no-kill animal shelter in Kansas City, is another organization Bertrand is working with. She did one of their projects designing hotel rooms for the 816 Hotel, which is a pet-friendly hotel.

Wellness Trend Decluttering and creating a feeling of calm through home décor are becoming popular pieces of home design. “Everyone is loving Marie

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Kondo nowadays,” says Bertrand, “and honestly when people don’t feel like their house is in order, they start buying more stuff to fill the space.” Bertrand says this ends up doing you a disservice. “Your eyes have no place to rest in your home.” Bertrand says people deserve their home to feel like it improves the way they live—through the function, the flow, even the colors. All of these impact your mindset. When she works on home designs, Bertrand says she often works with a local home organizing company that helps declutter and organize homes. “What I recommend you do is set up a master design plan,” says Bertrand. “Even if you can’t afford it all at once, you create a plan and take baby steps toward it.” In order to create a master design

plan, you decide what is needed to make your home or room function exactly the way you want—whether that be a new door, a different layout, or something even more major. From that starting point—even if you can’t afford what it is you want—you design it as if it is already implemented. “That way you are never going two steps forward, one step back,” says Bertrand. “Sometimes the quick fixes don’t leave space for the bigger, more expensive fixes you really want.”

Kansas City Design “A lot of Kansas City artists are holding their own on a national level,” says Bertrand. Porter Teleo, Jennifer Janesko, and Hallmark are a few of the local companies and artists that Bertrand feels are making a national impact. “Sometimes I have to tell people to just try one commissioned, custom piece

in their home and go from there,” she explains. Teaching people to have fun, try something new, and collaborate with a local artist to create something they love is what Bertrand hopes she can accomplish through her work.

Kansas City Resources If you are looking for smaller décor items, Bertrand recommends the Made in KC Marketplace on the Plaza because it is all local artists. “I love Restoration Emporium as well because they are always evolving and thinking what’s next, so they have new and used furniture at a good price point.” The shops in the Historic West Bottoms are also on Bertrand’s list. “I still go to the antique mall as well because I love hunting for things.” Urban Mining is one more recommendation Bertrand says you should definitely check out.

// IT’S TIME TO GET ORGANIZED

C ALL FO R A FR EE CO NSU LTATIO N & 3 D R EN DERI N G

| 816-207-3750 | www.GarageBoost.com

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

INFOCUS

A LIFETIME OF HEALTHY TEETH JENKINS & LEBLANC DENTISTRY WRITTEN BY REBECCA FISCHER PHOTOS BY JAMI MARSHALL

Your kids would probably disagree, but the Tooth Fairy isn’t the most important thing about their teeth. People are beginning to realize kids need good dental care—often at a younger age than most parents think.

Educating Parents With the word getting out that even very young children benefit from seeing a dentist, business has been booming at Jenkins & LeBlanc Dentistry for Children. The group of eight pediatric dentists and eight hygienists, as well as a full staff of office and marketing auxiliary team members and administrators, has offered Kansas City-area families pediatric dentistry services since 2005. They now have five office locations. “The doctors travel from location to location, because continuity of care is very important when building relationships with our patients,” says Megan Roach, marketing director. “These initial relationships are important for a lifetime of good dental experiences, and we don’t want parents to have to drive far to get that level of care.”

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Dr. Jill Jenkins and the staff at Jenkins & LeBlanc work hard to make children feel welcome and bring a smile to every child’s face.

Pediatric dentists receive advanced training from a specialized two-yearlong residency program. In accordance with the American Dental Association’s recommendations, Jenkins & LeBlanc’s board-certified pediatric dentists recommend the first tooth, first visit tenet to set the foundation for good oral health. Roach says this initial visit is important for building your child’s comfort and trust, as well as for just getting used to someone looking in their mouth and seeing the types of tools used to clean teeth. It also allows the team to recognize any problems if they do exist and monitor growth development.

Jenkins & LeBlanc works to educate parents in multiple ways, including at the office visit, online on their wellorganized website and blog, and on their social media pages. Their website offers a plethora of patient information as well as dental health information, a blog, reviews, and more. Perhaps all the education is paying off. A government study released last year showed fewer U.S. kids are getting cavities. Research showed that in 2015-2016, approximately 43 percent of children ages 2 to 19 had cavities. This was down from 50 percent only five years earlier.

up anxious or crying, but calm down once they’re through the doors and greeted by the kid-friendly atmosphere. “They handle my kiddos’ anxieties about going to the dentist so well,” says patient mom Chasady Lynn Cooper. “I highly recommend them.”

Here are a few facts that are important to remember.

can ensure the development of a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

• Baby teeth are important to your child’s health and development. They help your child chew, speak, and smile. They also hold space in the jaws for permanent teeth growing under the gums. When a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift into the empty space and make it difficult for other adult teeth to find room when they come in. This can make teeth crooked or crowded. That’s why starting infants off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for decades.

Welcoming Kids

• After the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday, a dental visit is important. Besides checking for cavities and other problems, the dentist can show you how to clean the child’s teeth properly and how to handle habits like thumb sucking.

“It’s pretty obvious, but we all really love kids,” says Dr. Jill Jenkins. “We want them to feel welcome—to walk in and think, ‘Yes, this is a place for me!’ It’s about comfort and confidence. We want to do whatever it takes to bring comfortable dental care to our patients. Our staff goes above and beyond every day to bring a smile to every child’s face.”

•O ne necessary life skill every child needs to learn is brushing their teeth. Helping your child get in the habit of brushing twice daily for two minutes

Upon entering any of Jenkins & LeBlanc’s locations, you and your child are greeted by games and movies in the waiting room, bright colors, books, and friendly, smiling faces. The dental chairs and tools are smaller to accommodate children’s comfort and each equipped with a stuffed animal used to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques with each patient.

This strategy is working. Some kids show

Jenkins & LeBlanc also specializes in treating children with special needs, including autism and ADHD. “We get a lot of referrals for apprehensive or anxious children. Another provider might not even be able to look in the child’s mouth before coming to our office,” says Roach. “We love hearing from those parents that their child had a wonderful experience with us and is even looking forward to coming back! That means we’ve done our job.”

Jenkins & LeBlanc Dentistry for Children • kidsmilekc.com Kansas City Office / 8919 Parallel Pkwy., Suite 460, Kansas City, KS • 913.299.3300 Olathe / 15151 South Blackbob Rd., Olathe, KS • 913.764.5600 Overland Park / 14420 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS • 913.387.3500 Prairie Village / 8226 Mission Rd., Prairie Village, KS • 913.378.9610 Shawnee / 6810 Silverheel St., Shawnee, KS • 913.745.2500

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

BE WELL

IT’S TIME TO TAKE DIABETES RISK TO HEART WRITTEN BY DAVID MARKS

Some things just go together naturally—peanut butter and jelly, Holmes and Watson and, yes, diabetes and heart disease.

for people with diabetes? It’s called atherosclerotic heart disease, also known as hardening of the arteries. “This is the formation of plaque within the arteries, which can lead to obstruction of blood flow and possibly heart attacks,” explains Waters. “Heart failure is also significantly more prevalent in patients with diabetes.” Fortunately, if you already have diabetes, there are several things you can do to help prevent heart disease, including:

•K eep your blood sugar as normal as possible. • C ontrol your blood pressure (with medication if necessary). The target for people with diabetes is under 130/80. •G et your cholesterol numbers under control. You may need to take medication to do this. •L ose pounds to lower your risk if you are overweight. It’s true. The risk of heart disease death and stroke is twice as high in people with diabetes. And right now, an estimated 29 million Americans have this disease. Even worse, another 86 million adults have prediabetes, a condition of elevated blood sugar just below the threshold for diabetes.

First things first—what exactly is diabetes anyway? “Diabetes (technically, diabetes mellitus) is not just one disease but a conjunction of diseases that are related to abnormal metabolism of sugar in

the blood,” says Andrew Waters, MD, Cardiologist, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission. “There are two primary types of diabetes: Type 1, caused by an insulin deficiency, and Type 2, a condition characterized by insulin resistance, meaning cells fail to respond to insulin.”

Dealing with diabetes is already a challenge. What’s even more serious is knowing it can increase the risk of heart disease. What’s the biggest heart health risk

•A sk your doctor if you should take an aspirin a day. •E xercise regularly. •E at a heart-healthy diet such as the Mediterranean diet or DASH diet. • Quit smoking. • Work to reduce daily stress. “Basically, it means sticking to your medical regimen, controlling your diet, and managing your risk factors both for diabetes and for atherosclerotic heart disease,” says Waters. continued on page 18

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

It’s easy to see why you should choose GEICO. With great rates to save you money, access to a licensed agent anytime 24/7, and a 97% customer satisfaction rating, there are a lot of great reasons why GEICO is the easy choice for your insurance needs.

NEED MORE CONVINCING? Customers rate GEICO 4.5 out of 5

Get a fast, no-obligation quote and find out for yourself.

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Customer satisfaction based on an independent study conducted by Alan Newman Research, 2019. Rating information based on customer reviews found on geico.com. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2019.© 2019 GEICO SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

BE WELL CONT. The good news is type 2 diabetes is largely preventable. While the majority of new cases of type 2 diabetes occur between the ages of 45 and 65, there’s plenty you can do right now to reduce your risk of diabetes in the future. Of course, a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone. “Diet is such an important component of having a healthy lifestyle,” says Waters. “Dietary choices such as the use of sugarsweetened beverages and the use of the Western diet have been associated with higher incidence of type 2 diabetes.” On the other hand, following a Mediterranean style diet and consuming nuts and whole grains can measurably reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes. “A sedentary lifestyle is also a major risk,” says Waters. “Being sedentary increases the risk of obesity and can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes overall.” To learn more about AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, visit AdventHealthKC.com.

ns Sessioing start 7 at $2

Tips to help reduce your risk of diabetes: •L ose excess body fat. Being overweight is a big risk factor for diabetes. •F ollow a plant-based, low-calorie diet. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables reduces diabetes risk. Foods to avoid are those rich in trans fats, saturated fat, and sugar. •D rink water. Cut sugar-sweetened beverages out of your diet and the risk of both obesity and diabetes falls. •M ove your body. A simple regimen of brisk walking can do the trick. •S tress less. The stress response triggers the release of several hormones that increase blood sugar. Physical activity and social support help relieve stress, along with mindfulness meditation. • S leep well. Chronic sleep deprivation and poor-quality sleep increase the risk for diabetes and obesity. •K eep medical appointments. The warning signs of type 2 diabetes are less dramatic than those of type 1 diabetes. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor regularly.

Looking to get into shape but too busy? In-home fitness training CAN HELP! Our trainers will come to you and help get you started.

913.788.1144

travelingtrainers.com STRENGTH / TONING / POST REHAB / RECLAIM MOBILITY / TOTAL BODY WORKOUT / SAVE TIME 18

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Feel Better. Breathe Easy. Kansas City and Olathe’s premier allergy, asthma and immunology clinic treating both children and adults. CONDITIONS TREATED

Nasal allergies, allergy testing & shots, asthma, food allergies & desensitization, immune deficiency, eosinophilic esophagitis, chronic hives, chronic cough, chronic sinus infections, eczema & contact dermatitis, hereditary angioedema, nasal polyps, penicillin testing & drug allergy, stinging insect allergy, anaphylaxis and much more.

Dr. Patel says “Being a physician is what I am trained to do, however making relationships with patients and helping them feel better is my purpose and what I believe I am meant to do.”

Dr. Neha Patel is accepting new patients with no wait time! Neha Patel, M.D.

kcallergycenter.com

Olathe Clinic - Corporate Ridge Office Park • 17795 W. 106th St., Suite 102, Olathe, KS • 913-942-2840 Plaza Clinic – Saint Luke’s Medical Plaza II • 4330 Wornall, Suite 40, Kansas City, MO • 816-531-0930

Paint. Drink. Have fun. Discover a new way to unwind with your friends. Reconnect over your favorite beverages while a local artist guides you through painting your own masterpiece. april l specia

ff o % 0 1 t hen yoeu: w e n g io servatse this cod each re ru mention

C plyK Sim tive se sensi (ca

online)

Private Parties • Bachelorette Parties • All ages painting parties every Saturday afternoon for a discounted price • Ladies Night on Wednesdays takes $5 off the reservation • Corporate team builders where you can create a mural, decorate your office • Date Nights for couples or friends to create one larger painting by combining their two canvases • We are a BYO food & drink studio

Briarcliff • 4165 N. Mulberry Dr., KC, MO • 816.492.3772 • www.pinotspalette.com/briarcliff SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

r a e D

KACIE LIGHTWEIGHT FRIENDS I lost a lot of weight recently and am getting attention from people who never paid attention to me when I weighed 60 pounds more. These people are making me feel extra self-conscious. How do I respond to people who ignored me until now?

Hold on, I’m looking up something on iTunes ... Ah, yes. Found it! You’re simply the best, better than all the rest, better than anyone, anyone I ever met. It’s Tina Turner’s “The Best.” I’m pretty sure it’s a song about love, but I promise I’m not hitting on you. I like to play the song when I need a confidence shot in the arm. I sing it to myself. Try it. Now I want to congratulate you on losing 60 pounds! No one drops 60 pounds without dedication and willpower. You are getting a standing ovation from the staff at SIMPLYkc. Losing 60 pounds will get the attention of others, so I don’t doubt you’re turning heads. You mentioned you are self-conscious—you’ve probably become used to the mental “shield” the weight provided. You’ve probably thought, When I’m skinnier, I’ll find the right man or When I lose the weight, I’ll wear this swimsuit. But when the physical weight is gone, the mental “I’m still taking up too much space” feeling is harder to shake off. Shake it off, Taylor Swift. Embrace the new friendships. Give people a chance to be your friend. If it’s clear they’re only interested in you because you fit a mold of what they think a person in their life should be, then ditch them. Remember, you are worthy of friendships no matter what weight you’re at because … wait, I need Tina … You’re simply the best, better than all the rest. If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to contact@simplykcmag.com.

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Curious about CBD? Phoenix Natural Wellness has the answers.

Mention this ad for

15% OFF your entire purchase! Discount cannot be combined with other offers.

Naturally alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, calm anxiety, elevate your mood and improve sleep.

The top five reasons people prefer Phoenix: 1. Knowledgeable, CBD-certified employees who take the time to educate customers 2. Compassionate, calming atmosphere that feels like a day at the spa 3. The largest selection of high-quality CBD products in Kansas City 4. Try-before-you-buy free samples every day

Visit one of our three Kansas City locations today! 7932 W. 151 st St. • Overland Park 913.257.5717

5. A loyalty program that rewards repeat visits with generous discounts

9627 W. 87 th St. • Overland Park 913.730.8520

PHOENIXNATURALWELLNESS.COM

13342 College Blvd. • Lenexa 913.549.3032

Add a touch of color to your look for Spring!

Along with fine Native American jewelry we offer unique gifts. Framed art, Wall Hangings, Katsinas and Zuni Fetishes are among the selection. SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

HOME

MASTERING ENERGY EFFICIENCY WRITTEN BY T.E. CUNNINGHAM

High electric and gas bills

are never a welcome sight, but there are many things homeowners can do to save money. Regardless of the season, your home will benefit from installing a programmable thermostat. Once installed, set your heat as low as you can comfortably bear it. You can program the thermostat to increase or decrease temperature settings when you’re out for long periods. You may be able to adjust the temperature a few more degrees while sleeping as well. Most experts agree that over time, these steps can save you at least ten percent. “During the winter, programmable thermostats save energy dollars for homeowners. However, during bitter, frigid temperatures you should be cautious of setting temperatures back too much so you avoid frozen pipes and other adverse effects,” advises Richard Blachly, owner of Ideal Air Heating and Cooling, which serves Johnson County. He adds, “Homeowners can also

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

save energy in the summertime, but we recommend you adjust in small increments—not more than a three-degree offset of your regular setting. By having the house too warm it introduces more humidity, causing the house to take more time to cool down.”

SOME OTHER TIPS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY • A smart thermostat gives you the ability to control temperatures from your smartphone and alerts you to any problems. For example, one of Blachly’s customers called him while traveling in Ohio when his smartphone alerted him it was only 45 degrees in his house. With the help of a neighbor allowing the HVAC company entry, the problem was remedied before the homeowner returned and any pipes froze. • Further insulate your home and prevent drafts. Contact an insulation company to determine what insulation options are available. Drafts can kill your energy bill, so check all windows and doors for

cracks. Weatherstrip the doors and caulk the windows. Make sure none of your glass panes are cracked as well. This can be problematic in all seasons. • Consider insulated and reflective shades. Close curtains and blinds in the summer to keep the sun and heat out; conversely, in the winter months open these if you have well-insulated windows. • Use a ceiling fan or other circulating fan. This can make you feel six or seven degrees cooler. If you also use an air conditioner, a ceiling fan helps disperse cooled air more efficiently and allows you to raise the thermostat by as much as four degrees without discomfort. • Don’t run appliances like the oven or dishwasher during the day in hot months. In the winter months, allow hot air from these appliances to heat rooms after they have been utilized but are still putting out heat. • Another tip for all seasons: don’t forget to change your filters on your HVAC. Dirty filters block airflow and make units work harder to heat or cool your home. Also, regularly clean all vents and registers and make sure they are not blocked by furniture. • “We advise against the super high-efficiency hypoallergenic filters because those can restrict airflow to the system, causing problems for both heating and cooling,” says Blachly. “A standard pleated filter will last about 60-90 days, so change it every 2-3 months.”

Yes.

We install in your area. Lifetime “No-Wrinkles” Installation guarantee

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC All the latest colors styles and patterns Complete manufacturer warranties Brand names at WHOLESALE PRICES Interest free financing (w.a.c.)

127th & Metcalf STORE HOURS Monday -Friday 9am-5pm | Saturday 10am-5pm | Closed Sunday

BEHOLD THE POWER OF THE RUG. From Persian rugs to custom designed rugs, we have the areas largest selection in all shapes and sizes. Our knowlegable associates can help find your perfect rug.

12619 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66213 | www.KCWholeSaleCarpetStores.com

(913) 327-1361

Simply_kc_quarter_page_ad.indd 1

913-327-8784 127TH AND METCALF AVENUE www.AreaRugDimensions.com

9/8/16 12:36 PM Simply_KC_1/4Ad_3.625x4.875.indd 1

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

9/8/16 12:35 PM

DISH

hat sets your restaurants apart from other similar style restaurants? We use a lot of fresh herbs—on finished dishes as well as in cooking. Also, there’s an attention to detail. We season to the Nth degree with salt. That’s what brings out the pizzazz of the flavor.

How do you typically start your day? I have one espresso, maybe two, but I don’t eat at home. I just get up and go to work. Once I get there, I go through the line and check the quality of what is left over from the night before. I’ll eat most anything, but not usually breakfast foods.

What was your favorite dish growing up and who cooked it?

Photo by Melanie McDowell

MICHAEL SMITH FARINA EXECUTIVE CHEF WRITTEN BY MELANIE MCDOWELL

Growing up in various towns across the United States, Michael Smith was always in the kitchen. After graduating with a psychology degree he did what a lot of us do, answered an ad for a job. It just so happened to be under chef Jean-Pierre Lelievre, who he spent five years working with in France. Smith has since curated a powerhouse of fine dining in The Crossroads with Michael Smith Restaurant, Extra Virgin, and now Farina, the latest hotspot for Italian cuisine.

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

My mother was a good cook. She would make a casserole with a layer of precooked hamburger, raw rice, canned tomatoes, corn, and more tomato on top. To this day, Nancy and I put steamed jasmine rice, baked tomatoes, and some kind of chicken or meat together. I love mixing those three.

What is your guilty pleasure food? Probably potato chips and peanut brittle. My in-laws bring me peanut brittle, and sometimes I have to throw it away or I will eat the whole thing.

Do you have a go-to cocktail? Campari soda, Negroni, or Lillet and tonic with lime.

What is your best culinary tip for the home cook? If you’re cooking potatoes and you’ve chopped them up, the second they hit the pan with the oil, leave them. As soon as you stir them they release

starch and start sticking. But if you let them caramelize on one side and stick a little bit, then scrape them up with a spatula, the whole process is much easier. Also, don’t season them with

Photo by Jenny Wheat

salt until they’re almost all the way done. Salt brings out the starch.

What do you like to do in your free time? I build things out of wood. I’ve built cabinets, a rolling cart for the restaurant, our basement, and our back deck. I also like painting. I don’t know how to draw, but I smear paint around.

Executive Chef Michael Smith

Farina, a Modern Italian Restaurant

Is there a dish or cuisine you’d like to master but haven’t yet?

In your opinion, what’s the best thing about Kansas City? The

There’s a Sardinian stuffed pasta called culurgiones. You start with a circle, bring it up and fold one edge this way, the other edge that way, and back and forth. You pinch it and it looks like a kernel of wheat—like it’s braided on top— but I just can’t figure out how to do it.

best thing is it’s small. You can navigate through the city with ease and get anywhere within about twenty minutes. It’s a small-town feel with some big city stuff. Kansas City has been good to me, and it’s getting better all the time.

Is it time to escape to an oasis of peace, relaxation & skin rejuvenation? Call to schedule your appointment today! 913.952.5842 Services offered: “Heidi is so knowledgeable about skincare and creates a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. I look forward to my facials; my skin has never looked better!” - Jennifer C.

Eminence Organic Facials Diamond Microdermabrasion Ellebana Lash Lift, Curl & Tint Customized Skin Care Regimens European Bath Therapy CT Energy Sessions Face Waxing

Face & Body Skincare by Heidi Talbott

Mention this ad to receive 20% OFF your first service!

An Eminence Organic Spa www.faceandbodyskincare.com heidi@faceandbodyskincare.com

Located Inside Solera Salon and Spa 12020 Blue Valley Pkwy. Ste. 115G, Overland Park, KS

913.952.5842 SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

FASHION

Beach chic Bring the beach to Kansas City with these chic resort wear-inspired pieces. From light and flowy dresses to chunky drop earrings that will grab everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention, these pieces from Coco and LadyBye are perfect for any occasion.

COCO 112 W. 63rd St., KCMO 816.442.5923

LADY BYE 6245 Brookside Plaza, KCMO 816.678.7803

Look by Coco 26

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Look by Lady Bye SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

Photography / Beth Houts Model / Noelle Manica, Voices& Hair / Summer Johnson, Aspen Salon Makeup / Jami Roth Wardrobe Stylist / Leah Lowe Shot on Location / The Fontaine Hotel

Look by Coco 28

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Look by Lady Bye SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

Look by Coco 30

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Look by Lady Bye SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

INFOCUS

Chris & Christy Bradford, owners of KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions

HGTV COMES TO LIFE

KC WHOLESALE CARPET AND AREA RUG DIMENSIONS WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON PHOTOS BY JAMI MARSHALL

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

The first step to upgrading a home is usually the flooring, and Chris Bradford, owner of KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions, has Kansas City’s best kept 20-year secret in flooring. Tucked in the 127th and Metcalf corridor in Overland Park, this company makes installing your floors easy and free of hidden costs. Whether you’re a novice home designer or you envision a custom rug design, KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions will help you with your home’s many footprints. “When someone shows me photos of interiors they like, I can always find the consistency with the favorite looks,” says Bradford. “I take that knowledge, view the home, and know exactly what to recommend, whether it be new carpet or placing the right size rug for the

space. My gratification is the finished product my client loves.” The best part is they sell at builder prices. “Our prices are as cheap as they can be, every day,” says Bradford. “If you get at least three bids, we will always be the wholesale price.” KC Wholesale Carpet features a wide selection of carpet flooring, real hardwood, engineered hardwood, and luxury vinyl wood floors. In recent years, the benefits of vinyl wood floors have been catching the attention of homeowners. Vinyl wood floors are waterproof,

The Area Rug Dimensions showroom offers a variety of rugs to choose from, but you are not limited to what is on display. Customers can order custom designs and colors. For those with a designer’s eye, you can go completely custom, meaning you can draw your own rug design and even choose custom dyes. Transitional rugs are the primary draw for many customers, but the possibilities are endless, with Orientals, abstracts, and the latest trends, including a bamboo-silk. As with the flooring, an in-home consultation is included with rugs as well. When choosing flooring, there are a few things you should remember. Following are some of Bradford’s tips: • Decide how long you want your flooring to last. If there’s a better than 50 percent chance of never leaving your home, you should put down a nicer carpet. Thicker carpet doesn’t necessarily mean nicer. Thinner, tighter, and denser carpet is best for wear, durability, and maintenance. • Vacuum often. If you vacuum enough, you shouldn’t have to clean the carpet often. If you have kids and pets, you should be vacuuming more than once a week. The reality is vacuuming often is difficult, so Bradford recommends tighter, denser carpet. • Apply a protectant once or twice a year. After vacuuming, apply a clear protectant spray on your carpet such as ScotchGuard or ForceField.

can be installed without clearing the furniture out of the room, and can last ten times longer than hardwood. The newest technology in vinyl is called Authentic Mix. The vinyl comes in a mix of widths and lengths and the embossing goes along with the grain of the vinyl wood. The effect is real wood at a cheaper price. For those who prefer do-it-yourself projects, all flooring can be purchased with carry-out wholesale prices. But the doit-yourself trend is not for everyone. KC Wholesale Carpet includes full service in the quoted price, which includes an inhome floor measure, a lifetime warranty,

“Our prices are as cheap as they can be, every day. We will always be the wholesale price.” carpet pads, moving your furniture, hauling away and recycling your old carpet, vacuuming, and putting your furniture back in place.

• The best time to upgrade flooring is spring or fall. “The windows open” time is the best time to install flooring. It’s easier on you and the installers. It’s not too hot or too cold, and the product can be properly acclimated to the climate. This is especially true for hardwoods. • Multi-tonal carpets are the best at hiding stains and debris. Patterns and textures are trending. The number one selling color is greige, a mix of beige and grey. It blends well with almost any wall color and décor style. • If you have hardwood floors, a humidifier is a must. The humidifier needs to be checked every year and you must change the filter at least once a year. It’s key to keeping your hardwood floors looking great.

KC Wholesale Carpet and Area Rug Dimensions • 12623 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS • 913.327.8784 kcwholesalecarpetstores.com • facebook.com/kcwholesalecarpet • facebook.com/arearugdimensions

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

PARENTING

PARENTING PARENTS

THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON

The world wants you to be a

good parent. When you’re pregnant, you buy What to Expect When You’re Expecting. After the baby is born, you join support groups such as La Leche League or Parents as Teachers. You keep the pediatrician’s phone number on speed dial. You ask friends for potty-training advice. Raising tiny humans is tough, but parenting resources are everywhere in Kansas City. By the time your baby is ten years old, you may feel you have a firm grasp on parenting. Then middle school opens its doors to your 11-year-old, and the rug is pulled from under you. The child you once knew isn’t quite a child anymore. Parenting middle schoolers brings a new set of mental hardships—anxiety being the biggest one. Mandy Shoemaker is a former teacher and elementary school principal. She’s also the president of BV Well, a parent group to educate and support families as they navigate mental health

and wellness. BV Well meets once a month and is open to all parents. The program includes a keynote such as a highly regarded speaker, a film, or parenting panels. Shoemaker believes there are many reasons parents feel like the rug is pulled out from under them when middle school arrives. Middle school marks the beginning of adolescence. Adolescence is a time when children are starting to develop and cope with emotional hardships. In general, our culture doesn’t prepare parents to let children work through difficulties. Parents tend to get wrapped up in doing everything for their child. The term helicopter parent is a parent who takes an overprotective or excessive interest in their child. There’s a newer term called the lawnmower parent which implies a parent mowing a path for their child and cleaning up their mess. “These two strategies will do the most damage to our kids,” Shoemaker says, “Part of the mental health crisis for kids is that we don’t continued on page 36

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

DEN

T I S T R Y FO R C H I L D R E N

Proud to be providing board certified, compassionate pediatric dental care to KC and Johnson County since 2005. Schedule an appointment at one of our five convenient locations today!

for more information or to visit our blog, visit us online at

www.kidsmilekc.com

New customers mention this ad and receive 20% OFF one item! Exp. 4/30/19

We specialize in Trendy Boutique Styles & Casual Basics Wear Leawood Store

4837 W. 135 th St. Leawood, KS 816-946-1490

Olathe Store

14010 W. 135 th St. Olathe, KS 913-839-8287

Check us out on FB, Instagram or online at

TEAELLA.COM SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

PARENTING CONT. teach them it’s okay not to be happy all the time.” A child may become stressed and emotional when it comes to the demands of middle school. This can carry over to the parent’s well-being, too. In Shoemaker’s experience, the number one reason kids don’t talk to their parents is because parents freak out. Social media may or may not be in your child’s life, but it’s in yours, and you need to know how to separate reality from fiction. Social media is not reality for children, and it’s not reality for adults. Children with social media apps equate likes and follows with success and happiness. The pressure is real for parents, too. Shoemaker says, “There’s an odd competition to be the parent most in love with their kid—‘It’s my kid’s birthday! Tell me how good he is!’ That can take a mental toll on parents.” Shoe-

maker recommends setting an example for your child by being real on social media. Middle school is when parents become judgmental of other parents and their kids. Parents tend to make sweeping generalizations about other parents during middle school. “It may appear a parent has a perfect Instagram kid, but when those ‘perfect kids’ get caught vaping, for example, parents automatically make judgments about the parenting,” Shoemaker warns. The reality is the best parents in the world can have the most troubled children. The less we forge our identity by how well we parent, the less anxiety and pressure we put on ourselves.

WAYS TO EASE PARENTING IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS • Remember, parenting is nothing new. Every generation has its own pressures. Vaping is prevalent now

when smoking cigarettes was prevalent in previous generations. Gossip and drama never goes away. Talk to your child about the tough things. Let them fall. • Don’t expect perfection. Let your kids experience the hard things. Teach them that a range of emotions is normal. Your job is not to fix things for your children; it’s to support them as they navigate challenges. • Set boundaries for your children while they’re young. Make sure punishments are followed through and remember to keep punishments in line with the offense. • Develop a sense of community. Talking to other parents or mental professionals about parenting challenges can help with mental issues, especially anxiety. Attend parenting resources such as BV Well. You were quick to use resources with a newborn, you can use resources for raising an adolescent, too.

Another Unique Brand You'll Love...

5903 Johnson Dr. Mission, KS 66202 913.687.8198 FB: Bombshell Boutique KC IG: bombshellboutiquekc 36

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

FURNITURE

| HIGH END CABINETRY | ARCHITECTURAL MILLWORK

1106 Santa Fe, Floor 2 Kansas City, MO

816.808.8092

| hingewoodworks.com

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

INFOCUS

CEO Blaine Proctor displays a visual model of Alhaven, SAVE, Inc.’s newest project. Alhaven will be an affordable, 50-unit housing complex in Midtown with a quarter of its units set aside for youth ages 18-25.

SAVE, INC. OFFERS SUPPORT FOR KANSAS CITIANS IN NEED WRITTEN BY T.E. CUNNINGHAM / PHOTOS BY JAMI MARSHALL

Founded in 1986, SAVE, Inc. was the first AIDS hospice in Missouri. Since then, the organization has expanded its mission to find housing solutions for people who are homeless, have HIV/AIDS, or have substance abuse or mental illness.

“I’ve been involved with the epidemic since back in the ‘80s, and as I became acquainted with the organization’s mission and utilization

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

of housing as treatment, it spoke to me,” says Blaine Proctor, CEO of SAVE, Inc. Proctor became involved with SAVE, Inc. in 2005 as a volun-

teer, later joined the board of directors for a six-year run, then became CEO in 2014. “As I got involved and started learning about the clients and the challenges they faced, I began to understand that if you provide housing for intervention/prevention, you have won one of the harder parts of the battle,” adds Proctor. SAVE, Inc. has significantly increased

its footprint over the years, owning and operating seven properties. These include 65 units of housing for transitional and permanent purposes. The group provides emergency housing, referral services, and rental/utility assistance to individuals and families in a 15-county metropolitan area, including on both sides of the state line. The organization’s administrative costs run well below 10 percent—a proud accomplishment, as the industry standard is 12 percent. Funded primarily through federal government contracts with the Department of Housing, the organization also raises awareness and funds through events. Each year it hosts “Homecoming,” a dance and party where staff, volunteers, board members, clients, and other guests celebrate what has happened throughout the year. This year, the team is also reinventing a former fundraiser called No Place Like Home. Judy Shepard, mother of Matthew Shepard, is the

Julie Groce (right), is program manager and supportive housing specialist. SAVE, Inc. meets people’s immediate needs first, and that is typically housing.

keynote speaker. Her son was murdered as a college student in 1998 in one of the most prolific series of news stories of the time, which called attention to hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people. She co-founded the Matthew Shepard Foundation and advocates for LGBTQ+ causes and rights.

“If you provide housing for intervention/ prevention, you have won one of the harder parts of the battle.”

Finally, SAVE, Inc. hosts small happy hours they call “friendraising” with people who are familiar with and supportive of its efforts. They have supporters bring friends to mingle and get to know one another and the organization. Everyone is educated on how they can participate—whether it be volunteerism, donations, or another way. Proctor is also excited about a couple of new program launches. “SAVE Home will be renovated and reopen in 2019 as a drop-in shelter for up to 15 young adults aged 18-24 who identify as LGBTQ+,” says Proctor. He explains that this demographic is 120 percent more likely to experience homelessness than non-LGBTQ+ youth, so the SAVE Home drop-in shelter will include case management, mental health services, crisis counseling, street

outreach, HIV/STI testing, group sessions, disability assistance and medical services, and referrals. Proctor adds, “We are also breaking ground in May on a new building, adding 50 units of affordable housing in addition to the 65 we already own. The housing development will be called Alhaven, and 12 units are dedicated to transition-aged youth who are aging out of foster care and have an HIV diagnosis.” Jenny Kincaid, who is board president, says, “The work that SAVE, Inc. has done and continues to do in Kansas City for those suffering from homelessness, substance abuse, mental illness and/or a diagnosis of HIV is honorable. Rarely does one diagnosis come without another, but suffering and loss comes with all.” Kincaid explains that when an organization and its staff, board, and supporters continuously fight to make someone else’s life better through providing basic needs such as a place to live, all should take note. “The future at SAVE, Inc. is bright as we’re not only expanding our campuses and services, but also helping a new demographic: the youth,” she adds. How can you get involved? Visit saveinckc.org and fill out a volunteer application. You can also donate via the website or call and ask for the Development Department to learn more about the options available.

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

BEAUTY

DECISION FATIGUE

KILLS CREATIVITY ...OR NOT WRITTEN BY T.E. CUNNINGHAM

We’re all the same. We wake up, shower, and head to the closet to choose the day’s outfit. But when we get to the closet, many of us have differing experiences. Some of us quickly pull on our clothes and shoes, grab a bite from the kitchen, and head out for the day. However, some of us get stuck deciding what to wear.

This paralysis when choosing what to wear may be for a variety of reasons: • You have an important meeting and can’t decide which one is your “power suit.” • You want to wear something and can’t find anything that goes with it. • You’re constantly worried about your weight and shape, and you go through a shame spiral hoping you find one outfit that “doesn’t make you look fat.” No matter the reason, it costs you

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

time and mental energy. This is commonly known as decision fatigue, or sometimes it’s known by its more scientific name, cognitive fatigue. A notable morning routine has become popular because of this decision fatigue. Wearing the same clothes each day—or rather the same style and color or shades of clothes— eliminates the daily decisions that may be troublesome or time-consuming. The late Steve Jobs popularized this practice, but he is not the only famous person to advocate this habit. Other famous people include former president Barack Obama, Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg, as well as many fashion designers including Karl Lagerfeld, Vera Wang, Michael Kors, Tom Ford, and Carolina Herrera. Even the great Albert Einstein allegedly had several versions of gray suits so as not to waste precious time on petty decisions. Many people decide to wear a “uniform” with the belief they will be

more successful and work with a clearer mind. This mentality is based on the concept that the fewer non-important decisions an individual has to make, the better the person can be at making more critical decisions. Many people apply this concept to other areas of their life as well. Other decisionmaking tasks people throw by the wayside include where to dine out, what movie to see, which car to purchase, wedding planning (hire a planner and let that person handle the arrangements within a budget), and cooking (hire a chef or join a meal kit service). According to research done by Evan M. Krockow, Ph.D., for Psychology Today, the average person makes around 35,000 choices per day. Additionally, time and motion studies have discovered that on average a driver will make 160 driving decisions per minute, ac-

cording to United World Transportation. If your drive to work is 15 minutes, you potentially make 2,400 decisions along that drive! The sheer number of daily decisions begs the question: Can one less decision in the morning about what you are going to wear for the day really make a difference? LinkedIn Top Voice of 2018 Vincent Carlos maintains that it does. “Simply put, every decision you make uses up your mental energy. Just the simple act of thinking about whether you should choose A or B will tire you out and reduce your brainpower. This means that the more decisions you have to make throughout the day, the weaker your decision-making process will become.” Author John Tierney writes in the New York Times bestseller Willpower, “Decision fatigue helps explain why ordinarily sensible people get angry at colleagues

and families, splurge on clothes, buy junk food at the supermarket and can’t resist the dealer’s offer to rustproof their new car. No matter how rational and high-minded you try to be, you can’t make a decision without paying a biological price.” So does it work to wear a “uniform” or not? Ultimately, it depends on how much time you spend on this and other small daily tasks that require decision-making. One could argue the clothing decision isn’t as taxing because you have already shopped for and purchased the clothes, reducing the daily decision-making burden. As for this writer, I have so much black in my closet that I simply plan to tell people I do it to relieve my decision fatigue and ride the fad!

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

GOOD TASTES

OVER THE RAINBOW WRITTEN BY GINA REARDON / PHOTO BY MELANIE MCDOWELL

Swiss Chard Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce SERVES 4 AS ENTRÉE, 6-8 AS FIRST COURSE OR SIDE DISH

Ravioli Filling 1/4 C. water 1 lb. rainbow, red, or green Swiss chard, center spine and stems trimmed 1 C. ricotta cheese 1/3 C. ricotta cheese 1/3 C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg 1 large egg 1 garlic clove, minced 1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme 3/4 tsp. Kosher salt 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary 1/4 tsp. coarse ground pepper 64 gyoza (potsticker) wrappers (from two 12 oz. packages wontons) 1 large egg white, beaten to blend Additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Bring 1/4 cup water to boil in large pot. Add chard leaves. Cover. Cook until tender but still bright green, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Drain. Cool slightly. Squeeze dry. Chop chard finely. Transfer to large bowl. Mix in ricotta, 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, thyme, salt, rosemary and pepper. Line baking sheet with foil or plastic wrap; sprinkle with flour. Place 1 gyoza wrapper on work surface. Brush surface of wrapper with egg white. Spoon 1 teaspoon chard mixture into center of wrapper. Top with another wrapper. Press edges together to seal. Transfer to baking sheet. Repeat with remaining wrappers, egg white, and chard mixture to make 32 ravioli. (Can be made 8 hours ahead. Cover and chill.)

Several years ago my eldest son took me to a local Amish market. Tempted by the gorgeous colors of fresh spring produce, I was inspired to create a simple ravioli filled with red chard for our dinner. My son made sheets of fresh pasta while I made the filling. As we talked, filled, cooked and enjoyed the ravioli over a bottle of wine, we created a memory that bubbles to the surface whenever I see ruby red or rainbow Swiss chard at the market. It’s one of my favorites, and I hope it becomes one of yours. Enjoy it as a meal by itself or as an accompaniment to spring lamb chops or roasted chicken.

Sage Butter Sauce 3/4 C. unsalted butter 1/4 C. chopped fresh sage Melt butter in heavy small skillet over medium heat. Add sage; stir 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat. Working in batches, cook ravioli in large pot of boiling salted water until tender, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer ravioli to large shallow bowl. Pour sage butter over ravioli and toss. Serve, passing additional Parmesan cheese alongside, if desired.

Gina Reardon, owner of Catering by Design and culinary philanthropist, leads the KC team for No Kid Hungry, culinary professionals and community members focused on supporting Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign. Funds raised help connect the nation’s 16 million low-income children with more school breakfast, lunch, and summer meals.

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Floral designs for all occasions! Now offering home and commercial decorating. Located in Park Place 5230 W. 116th Place Leawood, KS 66211 913-685-1188

FlowersbyEmily.com

OLATHE LOCATION: 15056 S. Black Bob Rd., Olathe, KS, (913) 768-7467 OVERLAND PARK LOCATION: 9540 Nall Ave., Overland Park, KS, (913) 257-5180 SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

BECAUSE I SAID SO...

GOING GRAY WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA LEVI

gram accounts of women going gray. It’s not from taking a Halloween costume too far. It’s not for a blog post or social media post. You probably wouldn’t even know I was growing out my gray hair unless I told you.

I don’t normally write about arguments with my husband Scott unless they’re resolved, but I wouldn’t say this dispute is entirely resolved.

Scott

did make a joke about it, though, so I know he’s caving. I waited three months for Scott to make a joke about my gray hair. Scott: I noticed you’ve been grocery shopping at Hen House a lot lately. Are you trying to fit in with the older crowd? Me: I noticed too! Why does Hen House have an older crowd? Location, maybe? Scott: I was talking about your hair. Britney Spears famously shaved her head in 2007. She hit “rock bottom,” the gossip magazines claimed. The rest of the world said, “If Britney Spears can make it through 2007, I can make it through today.”

Britney Spears and I were born five days apart, and I’m growing out my gray hair. My therapist confirmed I am not at rock bottom. I am not 2007 Britney Spears. I am 37-year-old Julie Burton and I have gray hair. Scott can dislike it, but he cannot say he doesn’t love me or that he wants to leave me. He still turns his mouth down every time I pull my hair up, though. He threatens to shave his head into a cul-de-sac to make me beg him to grow it back. He asks if I’m going to spray my hair down before a date night. He asks, “Who else do we know who has gray hair at 37? You’re not starting a movement.”

Every time my hair started to grow out in between hair color appointments, I’d pull it back and look at my face in the mirror. At first, it was curiosity—I wanted a glimpse of old me. But I realized old me isn’t old me. It’s me. My “grays” are not actually gray, though. They’re silver. They sparkle. I’m not giving up on my looks. I think it’s actually pretty. I think it will be prettier once it’s grown out. If men are called silver foxes, why can’t I be a silver vixen? If I’m going to “pull off” having silver hair, then I want to do it at 37. And if I change my mind, it will be my choice. I’m one text message away from my hair stylist. If Scott decides to run off with the kids—away from silver-haired me because I look older— that’s fine. One day that cul-de-sac on his head will happen without a razor. And there it is—the joke!

Why is my hair going gray? I don’t know. It’s not from looking at Insta-

Julie Burton is an Overland Park mom, wife, writer, outdoorswoman by marriage, K-State lover, and bacon-hater. She is a blogger and contributing author to the humor book, But Did You Die?: Setting the Parenting Bar Low. Burton’s 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. Follow Julie at: julieburton.blog • facebook.com/julieburtonwriter • twitter.com/ksujulie • instagram.com/ksujulie

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

Where Therapy & Wellness Meet

• Small group Pilates equipment classes • Private Pilates sessions • Physical therapy that is one-on-one • Highly educated and experienced instructors and therapists

Also Specializing in:

• Dancers & athletes • Pre & post natal • Orthopedic injuries/Post surgical • Neuologic disorders • Dry needling • Scoliosis • Craniosacral

Located in Corporate Woods, Overland Park, KS

816.379.6899 kinespherept.com

JAMI ROTH makeup artist

Myofascial release therapy is the foundation of our business. Our work environment is a collaboration with other practitioners to offer our clients an effective individualized approach that empowers them to heal at their own pace.

Myofascial Release Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Infrared Saunas A Simple Detox Program Scar Release Therapy Reiki Energy Sessions

7270 W. 98th Terr., #220 Overland Park, KS

MidwestMyofascialRelease.com COMMERCIAL PRINT

WEDDINGS & BOUDOIR

MODELING SENIOR PORTRAITS SPECIAL OCCASION MAKEUP

816-207-9754 beautybyjami2@gmail.com

913-706-2294

beYOUtifulbyJami

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

FAMILY PHOTOS NEWBORN WEDDINGS SENIOR PHOTOS CORPORATE ADVERTISING PHOTOS

913.636.4024

electricimgz.com

youneekwun5@yahoo.com

20% OFF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:

NEW CLIENT COLOR SERVICE BRIDAL HAIR & AIRBRUSH MAKEUP CONSULTATION NEW HAIRDREAMS EXTENSION CLIENT

Uncork your creativity...come experience Grapes & Paints A two hour social BYOB painting studio for all ages!

Summer Johnson

We are the perfect place for a Girls Night Out, Bachelorette Party, Date Night, Corporate Team Building, Kid’s Birthday Party, Bridal Shower, Bunco Night, etc. We make it simple. You book the event and we do the rest.

We supply EVERYTHING but the bubbly!

BRIDAL HAIR - AIRBRUSH MAKEUP

913-909-9227

ASPEN SALON / 9926 College Blvd. , Overland Park, KS

extendyourself@hotmail.com • cateredbeauty.com

summerjohnsonstyle 46

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

7175 West 95th Street - Overland Park, KS

(913) 314-2650

APP OF THE MONTH KEEP TABS ON YOUR FAMILY The gist: With hectic schedules and long to-do lists, managing multiple day-to-day schedules for your family can feel like a full-time job. This is where Life360 comes in handy. You can avoid check-in texts and annoying “Where are you?” calls with Life360, which gives you simplified communication with your family, or “Circle.” When you open Life360, you’ll instantly see where everyone in your private Circle is on a private map. You can message the whole group or an individual. To further automate the process, you can add a “Places” alert for when Circle members come and go from your favorite spots, such as home, school, and work. You do, however, have the ability to limit location-sharing— because not everyone needs to know where you are at all times. The basic Life360 app is free for both Android and iOS. But you can upgrade, with a paid subscription, to a driver protection and monitoring app.

Spring into Healthier Skin SAVE 15% OFF

REZENERATE TREATMENTS WHAT IS REZENERATE? The Rezenerate NanoFacial is the newest skin care modality on the market. It uses nanotechnology to bring you the same great results as more invasive systems without any of the negatives. Nanotechnology science is changing the world. It has produced better medicine, better electronics, better air quality, and now better skin care...with the Rezenerate NanoFacial.

Skinology Skincare

NEW LOCATION!

4800 W. 135TH ST., STE. 200 LEAWOOD, KS

H y d r a Fac i a l • M i c r o d e r m • M i c r o l i f t • C h e m i c a l P e e l s 913.232.7111 • SKINOLOGYSKINCARE-LLC.COM • 4800 W. 135TH ST., STE. 200, LEAWOOD, KS Optiminal results in our 360º approach to “Changing Your Skin from the Inside Out” incorporates:

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

s g n thi

LOCAL ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS

1 Foundations of Oil Painting Whether you’re a

beginner or intermediate painter, this class will teach you the techniques and proper ways to use your materials. You will work both from life and from photos with the opportunity to explore personalized subject matter after working through initial projects. reddoorstudiokc.com

2 A crylics: The Natural World Explore various

approaches to painting with acrylics as you draw inspiration from the natural world. Learn about color mixing and theory, brushstroke, composition, depicting space or distance, and finding expressive qualities in your painting. nelson-atkins.org

3 Beginning Wheel In this class, which is perfect

for anyone with little or no experience, you make your own cups and bowls from scratch. You’ll learn the basics of wedging, centering, throwing, glazing, and finishing your pieces. belgerarts.org/

adult-classes

4 Turkish Ceramic Painting The small town of

Iznik, Turkey, is responsible for some of the most stunning ceramics ever made. Learn about the techniques involved and you will not only get an

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

amazing piece to take home, but also a taste of what it takes to produce one of these beautifully decorated plates in vibrant colors using ceramic glaze. kcartangels.com

5 F oundations and Legends Whether you’re a

beginner or seasoned veteran, you will learn from the industry’s most accomplished illustrators, painters, and visual storytellers in this June workshop. Foundations is all about establishing great picture-making skills and observing legendary artists like Gary Kelley and Mark English do what they do best. theillustrationacademy.com

6 I ntro to Metalworking Learn how to MIC weld, grind, and cut metal in this introductory course. You’ll complete a small project in this open-session class. eventbrite.com/o/maker-village-

12045044205

7 Beginning Quilting for Adults This retreat—

which takes place June 18–21—will take you through the steps of creating a quilt. You will learn about selecting fabrics, threads, sewing needles, and the notions you will need as a new quilter. eventbrite.com/o/missouri-star-

retreats-5151510907

A fashion, beauty & lifestyle blog where creator Leah Lowe shares her current favorites in trends, skincare & home decor.

@ellemaeblog

looking to partner with advertise your SIMPLYkc business? Magazine Advertising > contAct BrAndy BArrish 816.223.9395 BrAndy@simplykcmAg.com

simply kc simplykc magazine

Advertising > magazine

pleAse cAll 913-608-6305 sAles@simplykcmAg.com

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE

APRIL 2019

“

I cannot even put into words how AMAZING my experience was!!!! I was lucky enough to have Emily as my consultant and she made my whole day feel like a dream.The entire process was filled with fun, incredibly seamless, very open and honest, & completely stress-free. I woke up the next morning wanting to do it all over again!!! Everything was so magical and my heart is so full. -Alex L

”

“

Emily Hart Bridal was an unforgettable experience! They made us my entire group feel right at home.We had our own space with a big couch and beautiful, big mirrors.The building is gorgeous and makes you feel so special.There are so many amazing dresses to choose from that I had a hard time deciding my favorite!!We worked with Molly and she was outstanding! So professional, knowledgeable, sweet, and patient! I would highly recommend Emily Hart and working with Molly. I guarantee you wont have to go anywhere else!! -Madison S.

“

”

Just amazing! The beauty and quality of the dresses is truly impressive but more so, the customer service and attention I received was by far the best I’ve experienced! Sara was so incredibly helpful! She went above and beyond to listen attentively to my vision of the perfect dress, gave great guidance and made me feel at ease during this stressful time. I’m so very grateful! Even Emily herself came over to help. Thank you so much for your hard work in providing a beautiful boutique with exceptional lady’s making brides dreams come true. -Stacy K.

”

photo by Meghan Savage

emilyhartbridal.com | 913.681.1500 | info@emilyhartbridal.com

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

Because...

you' ve earned every facet.

WHERE OUR GIRLS KNOW WHAT EVERY GIRL WANTS - SINCE 1982 CAMELOT COURT SHOPPING CENTER 4250 WEST 119TH STREET 913-661-0834

L E A W O O D, K S 6 6 2 0 9

W W W. G L I T T E R S. C O M