SIMPLYkc Magazine September 2020

HOW TO REVITALIZE YOUR BUSINESS POSTPANDEMIC

GREENER GRASS, SAME CITY

NEW KC NEIGHBORHOODS TO CALL HOME!

JUICE, CLEANSE, REPEAT

SEPT ‘20 | Vol. 10 No. 5

REFRESH YOUR LIFESTYLE!

7 THINGS

7 BEAUTY PRODUCTS

AROUND TOWN LOCAL PARKS OFFER A NATURAL ESCAPE

BEAUTY

SCHOOL’S IN SESSION: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ACNE

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CONTENTS

AROUND TOWN 10

KC PARKS OFFER A NATURAL ESCAPE FROM THE CORONAVIRUS

LOCAL GOOD EATS 12 BE WELL 14

BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM FOR COLD AND FLU SEASON

BUSINESS INSIDER 16

BE A BUSINESS SUCCESS AND STANDOUT STUDENT

INFOCUS 18

CEDAR LAKE VILLAGE PROVIDES SENIORS A MYRIAD OF LIFESTYLE CHOICES

WHO WHAT WHERE 20 DR. JOSEPH CAMARATA

HOME 22

WON’T YOU BE OUR NEIGHBOR?

44

22

INFOCUS 24

HELPING PATIENTS FIND THEIR BEST SELF

42

BEAUTY 26

SCHOOL’S IN SESSION: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ACNE

DISH 28

RUBY JEAN’S JUICERY

INFOCUS 30

AFFORDABILITY, HONESTY, AND ESSENTIAL OILS

PARENTING 32

FOUR WAYS TO MINIMIZE STRESS FOR CHILDREN

INFOCUS 34

MORE THAN ESTHETICS

14 32

28

DEAR KACIE 36 THE COVID FISH BOWL

INFOCUS 38

A NEW GROCERY AND RESTAURANT MEETS THE NEED FOR A HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVE

BECAUSE I SAID SO 40 HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF

GOOD TASTES 42

DELICIOUS MEMORIES: APPLE TART

7 THINGS 44

7 PRODUCTS TO ADD TO YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE

APP 46

INSIGHTTIMER: A REVIEW OF RELAXATION

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Back to Jeans and Bedtime Routines September has arrived! That means kids are back in school—whether in a classroom, at home, or a hybrid of these—it has started. The days of staying up late or sleeping in are replaced by homework and bedtime routines.

This time of year gets me excited for fall and the joys that come with it. The weather begins to cool, trees begin dropping their leaves, sweaters and jeans are pulled out of storage, and new fall recipes are tested!

Our issue this month is packed with exciting content perfect for this time of year. Good Tastes (p. 42) has a delicious apple tart recipe, our 7 Things column (p. 44) has seven must-have products to add to your beauty routine, our Be Well column (p. 14) features ways to boost your immune system for cold and flu season, and one of our InFocus articles features Verdant Oils (p. 30) and the many benefits of their essential oil collection.

We hope you pick up our publication this month and take some time to relax, read, and enjoy SIMPLYkc. You will love what we have to offer!

Welcome, September!

Suzanne Steiner, Publisher

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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PUBLISHER Suzanne Steiner suz@simplykcmag.com MANAGING EDITOR Brennan Hallock of Hallock Writing & Design editor@simplykcmag.com PHOTOGRAPHY Jami Marshall of Electric Imagez, Jenny Wheat of Wheat Photography, Samantha Levi of Samantha Levi Photography, Gerri Bigler of Gerri Bigler Photography, Shannon Roesgen, Sundance Ridge, Anna Petrow, Adri Guyer, Billie’s Grocery, Anya Janowski CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julie Burton, Rebecca Fischer, Madison Obermeyer, Brennan Hallock­of Hallock Writing & Design, Gina Reardon, TE Cunningham, Jenny Kincaid Julian, Shannon Roesgen, Tereza Hubkova, M.D. ART DIRECTOR Julie Faerman, Whoo Design ADVERTISING Gretchen McGraw, Sales 620.474.5859 gretchen@simplykcmag.com INQUIRIES SIMPLYkc Magazine 11730 W. 135th St., Ste. 116 Overland Park, KS 66221 913.209.9394 contact@simplykcmag.com simplykcmag.com

COVER & MASTHEAD IMAGES PHOTOS • Samantha Levi, samanthalevi.com, @samstownusa WARDROBE • Scoobie, 23 on the Mall, Prairie Village, KS, 913.602.8268, shopscoobie.com, @shopscoobie MODELS • Ashley Sims with Voices &, 118 Walnut, Suite 120, Kansas City, MO, 816.753.4261, voicesand.com, @voicesandmodels HAIR • Summer Johnson, Master Stylist at Catered Beauty located inside Aspen Salon, 9926 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS, 913.909.9227, @summerjohnsonhair MAKEUP • Mae Monroe, 913.369.5446, maemonroe.com, business@gmail.com, @maemonroe.artistry STYLIST • Gretchen McGraw, @gretchen_kc SHOT ON LOCATION • Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

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. ©2020, Mach Publications, LLC.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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AROUND TOWN

KC STATE PARKS OFFER A NATURAL ESCAPE FROM THE CORONAVIRUS ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY SHANNON ROESGEN

Now more than ever, it is imperative we capitalize on our local resources as venues for socially distant physical activities, intellectual stimulation for adults and children, and fun destinations to simply get out of the house.

K

ansas City has a multitude of state parks peppered throughout KCMO and KCK, all of which are located less than an hour from downtown KC. They are beautiful, clean, and most are free. Before winter hits, here are some great options for a day trip with your family.

Heritage Park—Olathe, KS One of the most beautiful aspects of Heritage Park is Heritage Lake, a 40-acre serene body of water with a paved trail winding around it. The trail is perfect for families taking an evening stroll, runners, or cycling enthusiasts.

Even on the hottest of days, there is often a breeze on the lake that makes the KC heat bearable and the trail enjoyable. Heritage Lake is also a popular fishing spot, as well as a great place for kayaking or paddle boarding.

Heritage Park has multiple picnic areas, as well as 10 shelters throughout the park available for rent through the registration department.

Katie Garrison, Visitor Services assistant at Heritage Park, says, “For

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SEPTEMBER 2020

sports, Heritage Park offers eight soccer fields, 15 baseball and softball fields with a complex, a football field as well as an 18-hole golf course.”

In addition to a traditional golf course, Heritage Park has a 54-par disc golf course. There are even equestrian riding trails located in the southwest corner of the park.

Heritage Park provides two playgrounds for your children. For older kids and adults, bikes are available for rent through Ride KC. If you need an additional physical challenge, circuit training exercise equipment is located just off the parking lot by the lake.

For dog owners, Heritage Park has an off-leash 30-acre dog park.

There is a small pond where pups can swim, and a trail that loops around the dog park.

Garrison recommends visiting the park’s sunflower field in September.

It is a spectacular place to capture family photos.

Swope Park Mountain Bike Trail — Kansas City, MO If off-road mountain biking is more your speed, Swope Park offers a 4.6-mile loop trail with a wooded

setting and limestone bluffs. Expect a lot of rocks on these trails layered with multiple drops and jumps. These trails are great for adventurous athletes who enjoy a good challenge and desire a bit of a thrill.

This park is accessible year-round and is dog-friendly.

Waterfall Parks — Merriam, KS, and Independence, MO Waterfalls are somewhat unexpected in KC, but there are actually two waterfall parks in the area.

Waterfall Park in Merriam, Kansas, is a 15-acre park with an access point to view smaller yet peaceful waterfalls. The park is encircled with a scenic walking trail.

In addition to the walking trail, there is a playground for kids and some soccer fields, which are available with a reservation up to one year in advance.

Waterfall Park in Independence, Missouri, offers an 18-acre lake, playground equipment, and a shelter with public restrooms.

There is a walking trail that winds around the lake and eventually leads to the waterfall, which is ac-

Pictured: Heritage Park, Olathe, KS

tually located about a quarter of a mile outside the park. The waterfall is said to be most breathtaking following a rainy day.

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park— Lawson, MO Located 40 minutes north of the city and managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources,

this state park offers 96 year-round campsites. Some of these campsites have electric hookups. There are multiple quaint picnic spots as well. This state park has a 100-acre lake enveloped by a 3.8-mile bicycling and walking trail, as well as a sand beach for swimming. In addition, visitors can enjoy fishing at the beach for bass and catfish.

GET READY FOR FALL! Start an exfoliating routine that will brighten and hydrate your skin!

Watkins Woolen Mill is also a state historic site. The preserved mill still has all of the original 19th-century textile machinery intact. There is a visitors center that offers informative tours of the museum. Watkins Woolen Mill is a national historic landmark and promises to be an educational treat for your family.

Some Gluten Free, some Dairy Free, some Naughty.....

We’re here to please them all. Billie’s Grocery will bring mostly organic, nutrient-dense whole eats and treats to the community’s ever-growing health food scene.

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Austins Bar & Grill has been serving Southern Johnson County for over 33 years. Our family-owned establishments offer a fun sports bar environment to watch all the games. Fresh quality food is provided with great daily food and drink specials. Enjoy our happy hour menu 3-6 p.m. Monday-Friday!

SOUTH OLATHE 2103 E. 151st St. • 913.829.2106 NORTH OLATHE 11180 S. Lone Elm Rd. • 913.322.2337 GARDNER 245 Moonlight Rd. • 913.856.6965 austinsbarandgrill.com

L ocal

GOOD EATS

Serving organic, whole food eats and treats for KC’s ever-growing health food scene, Unbakery Juicery prides itself in its gluten free menu. Unbakery is open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Saturday serving breakfast and lunch options from Billie’s Grocery in midtown and organic juices served in glass bottles. Unbakery offers an easy, convenient drive-thru option for those days you’re in a hurry or have a car full of crazy kids. (Buy them a protein ball, you’ll thank us!) With a full line of wellness shots and functional herbal teas from Apothe, the team at Unbakery helps you maintain optimal health. Mention SIMPLYkc magazine and receive 10% off a juicer.

634 E. 63rd St., KCMO • 816.237.1128 unbakeryandjuicerykc.com

Story is now open for patio and dining room seating. Chef ThorneThomsen is excited to welcome you back into the restaurant. Story will continue to offer curbside pickup with online ordering at storykc.com.

Featured menu items include: Alaskan halibut, soft shell crabs, beef short ribs, lobster tagliatelle, and more. Story also offers monthly wine dinners, taco nights on Sundays, a fried chicken special on Wednesday nights, and a burger special on Thursday nights. Visit storykc.com to learn more.

3931 W. 69th Terr., Prairie Village, KS • 913.236.9955 info@storykc.com • storykc.com

Our Harvest Salad is back for a limited time! Enjoy fresh field greens topped with figs, pumpkin seeds, Boursin cheese, applewood smoked bacon, and our house-made apple cider honey vinaigrette. Available for curbside pickup or dine-in. Learn more at deweyspizza.com.

Ranch Mart Shopping Center • 3615 W. 95th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.257.5311 deweyspizza.com

Our food is simple, elegant, and honest. The menu is inspired by a combination of American, Greek, French, and Italian cuisines. Our commitment to freshness and quality is first and foremost, as we use the season’s best offerings and buy from local farmers and purveyors whenever possible.

The service team at YaYa’s consistently aims to provide the best service and complete guest satisfaction. We’re proud to be able to meet each special request of our guests, whether it’s food, beverage, or a special setting.

7021 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.345.1111 yayaskc.com

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Burnt End BBQ is a fast casual BBQ restaurant located in Overland Park.

They are the tastiest of the tasty! Come in hungry and walk out satisfied.

If you can’t make it in, don’t worry! They deliver and cater. Burnt End BBQ can cater any event from a simple office lunch to an old-fashioned BBQ wedding. Come in and try the best BBQ in town!

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BE WELL

BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM FOR COLD AND FLU SEASON WRITTEN BY TEREZA HUBKOVA, MD, INTEGRATIVE PHYSICIAN, ADVENTHEALTH SHAWNEE MISSION

Taking good care of yourself and supporting a healthy immune system is more important now than ever. We’re not only living through the COVID-19 pandemic—winter cold and flu season is lurking around the corner.

Having a diet with at least 8-10 servings of colorful fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, healthy protein, and good fat such as olive oil and Omega-3 fatty acids is the best way to obtain the nutrients your immune system needs. Zinc, another crucial nutrient, is found in animal protein, seafood, mushrooms, nuts, seeds, and cocoa.

A mostly plant-based, fiber-rich diet supports the good bacteria in your intestines, which fine tune your immune system and protect you.

On average, adults get about 2-3 colds per year and children typically get more. Besides washing hands, physical distancing, and wearing masks, the best way to reduce the possibility of becoming sick with a common cold or other virus is to keep a healthy lifestyle.

Maintaining optimal weight and a stable vitamin D level, consuming a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep and regular exercise, and minimizing stress can go a long way to

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keeping your immune system in good working order.

Eat a Healthy Diet Your first line of defense is healthy mucous membranes—the lining of your mouth, respiratory tract, and digestive tract. This is where vitamins A, C, D, and E all play a role. Decongestants used for a runny nose can dry the mucous membranes too much and actually increase your risk of infection.

You might want to think twice about the glazed donut. Eating junk food can have a negative impact on your gut microbiome and increase the risk of infection by depriving you of important nutrients. Eating foods that spike your blood sugar suppresses the ability of your immune system to attack bacteria and cells infected by viruses.

Get Quality Sleep Poor sleep makes you vulnerable to infections and less likely to respond to a vaccine. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per day, preferably at night. When you are aligned with the natural cycles of day and night, your hormones balance, which helps your immune system do a better job.

Walking outside in the morning ex-

poses you to natural light, which helps set your circadian rhythm. Equally important is keeping your bedroom dark and avoiding electronic screens in the evening and at night.

Mind Your Emotions Positive emotions like love, gratitude, and appreciation strengthen your immune system, while negative emotions like anger, frustration, and hostility have a toxic effect. Music you enjoy has a powerful, positive effect on the immune system. For example, drumming circles can increase natural killer cells that fight cancer and viruses, and singing increases salivary Immunoglobin A, which boosts resilience against respiratory infections.

Get Your Exercise Consistent workouts help maintain normal blood sugar and weight, improve your mood, and help you sleep better.

However, overexertion such as running a marathon is not good for your im-

mune system. For optimal health, you should train for a marathon, but never actually run it.

Step Out in the Sun People with low vitamin D levels are at higher risk of a variety of diseases, including COVID-19. A brisk, 15-minute walk twice a day in the sunlight helps your skin produce vitamin D. If your skin is darker, you may need even more time in the sun.

As winter approaches, most of us will need to take a vitamin D supplement.

Ask your physician to check your vitamin D level every year. In a recent study, those who were given a vitamin D supplement had half the winter colds and flu compared to those who were left at low levels.

Consider Using Probiotics, Supplements, and Herbs

catching a cold from your spouse or child, and even if you do get sick, the cold may be milder and shorter. One study showed that giving a combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis to 3-5-year-old children from November to May reduced their chance of fever, cough, and runny nose by up to 73 percent. In another study, taking probiotics daily for three months reduced viral throat infections by an impressive 80 percent and strep throat by a whopping 96 percent!

There are several supplements and herbs worth noting: echinacea, elderberry, eleuthero, astragalus, and garlic are just a few of nature’s wealth of immune boosters. Since limited research has been conducted on how herbs interact with medications, it’s best to work with an experienced integrative physician or naturopath when using them.

Taking probiotics may lower the risk of

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BE A BUSINESS SUCCESS AND STANDOUT STUDENT

WRITTEN BY JENNY KINCAID JULIAN / PHOTO BY JAMI MARSHALL

Back to school, seasonal sales, and sweater weather are all things September brings us.

Each is equally exciting for its own reason. But September also means you need to start thinking about how you and your business can stand out.

The COVID-19 pandemic reminds us daily that life is not back to normal, and neither is business. While we continue to navigate this pandemic, we should be talking about our products and services in innovative ways.

Businesses are re-establishing themselves, and a lot of what they do reflects on their brand and reputation.

I recently watched a video in which Dr. Talaya Waller, founder of Waller & Company, said, “If your business is what you do, then your brand is what people think you do.” Both are equally important, and it is your responsibility as a business owner to deliver on your brand promise.

Determining how to meet your current and potential customers isn’t a novel business challenge, but how you adapt and connect with them based on current issues is. Now is the time to leverage your brand in every way possible: social media, website updates, brand ambassadors, new demographics, social influencers, and going above and beyond with client communication.

To help you start thinking creatively, here are five marketing ideas to make you a September business standout.

Back-to-school Marketing All businesses can participate in back-to-school season by offering discounts or bundling similar items.

Be the solution for busy parents by

providing tips and resources related to your products. Don’t forget about teachers and those driving the purchasing decisions.

National Read a Book Day Slowing down to read a good book is never bad advice. Because of the pandemic, people won’t be able to read to children in person this year, but you could partner with a classroom and read a book via Zoom.

Now is also the time to share industry-related books you’ve found helpful. Give people an inside look at how it’s helped you solve a problem, taught you a valuable skill, and how you practice those skills in your business. Don’t forget to take a picture of the book and tag the appropriate people or publishers on social media. #NationalReadABookDay is Sept. 6.

Fall into the Season with Seasonal Decor It’s surprising how many businesses don’t do this. Take fall-themed photos of your staff, new decor, or products, and upload them on social media using seasonal hashtags. By using trending hashtags, one increases the opportunity for online engagement and introduces you to new eyes. You could write a blog post about seasonal changes related to your industry or take a selfie at your favorite coffee shop enjoying a pumpkin latte.

National Coffee Day is Sept. 29. #supportlocalKC #nationalcoffeeday

Be Media Savvy This one might be my favorite, considering I do public relations. Local television producers love seasonal ideas for their shows because they’re well-received by viewing audiences. Reach out to local stations, radio shows, or even podcasts with seasonal story ideas that relate to your business.

Pick ‘Em Right and Retarget If you participate in social media advertising, re-evaluate your target audience to take advantage of the season with targeted ads. Market to people by utilizing trending topics. For example, decision-makers are looking at back-to-school sales and college students are looking at dorm decor.

Don’t assume customers will return or people will just find you. Be proactive. Meet your customers where they are. Get to know what your audience is reading.

Once you know who your audience is and where to find them, you’ll create a more robust marketing and communications strategy based on facts, not guesses. This will make you a standout student!

Jenny Kincaid Julian is a media relations professional and agency owner who works with brands, businesses, executive teams, and solopreneurs to grow their personal and professional brands. Contact Jenny at: 816.550.4382 • jenny @ socialworxpr.com • @ jennykincaid

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We offer a variety of therapeutic modalities.

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Graston Technique • Cupping • Cranial Sacral Scar Release • Lymphatic Drainage

We are excited to feature our Therapist Jeff Dailey Specialties include: Myofascial Release • Medical Massage Practitioner Personal Training/Corrective Exercise Kinesis/Muscle Taping • Graston Technique Specialist

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INFOCUS

CEDAR LAKE VILLAGE PROVIDES SENIORS A MYRIAD OF LIFESTYLE CHOICES

WRITTEN BY TE CUNNINGHAM / PHOTOS BY GERRI BIGLER PHOTOGRAPHY

Cedar Lake Village opened in 2001 with a focus on quality living for seniors, including those needing assisted living options. Providing a full continuum of care, Cedar Lake Village is located on the campus of Olathe Medical Center. In 2007, the campus was expanded to include 22 villas, and expansion continued in 2016 with 24 memory care assisted living apartments.

The community provides seniors with various support services. Senior living and the villas both offer a personalized, maintenance-provided lifestyle while providing the security of having other residents and support staff close by, if needed. The assisted living units offer a high level of benefit and care with personalized nursing services. Finally, the memory care living space provides care and supportive ser-

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vices for individuals living with irreversible dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, who can benefit from a smaller residential environment, trained staff, and supportive programming.

The campus also features Hoeger House, which provides shortterm rehabilitation for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

“I often hear from our new residents and families that Cedar Lake Village just feels different when you walk through the door; it feels like home,” notes Joanna Randall, Executive Director for Cedar Lake Village, Hoeger House, and Good Samaritan Society—Olathe. She adds, “You can feel the loving and welcoming environment. The staff and residents are friendly and inviting, and the environment is re-

Residents of Cedar Lake Village enjoy the friendly, relaxing environment that includes a wellness program, group classes, and multiple dining options.

laxing. Sometimes they have trouble explaining why they have that feeling, but I believe it is because we are a faith-based organization.”

Randall continues, “We want to show God’s love in all we do and say, and no matter your faith, everyone wants to feel important and loved.”

Cedar Lake Village is jointly owned

by Olathe Health and the Good Samaritan Society, both faith-based organizations with similar missions, a partnership that has been in place almost 20 years.

Cedar Lake Village features a wellness program that focuses on six components: spiritual, mental, physical, environmental, emotional, and social. The wellness director makes sure to include all of these components in programming each month.

Having diverse programs is essential to meeting everyone’s needs because wellness varies by individual.

Programs must also recognize that residents’ needs can change day by day, depending on what new challenges and opportunities arise.

“They feel so much like family, and I would highly recommend them to anyone,” notes Joy Livengood, the daughter of a resident. “I searched

our area for a long time before choosing Cedar Lake Village, and it’s one of the best decisions I have ever made for my dad. He moved into independent living 90 days ago. In our new environment of COVID-19 awareness, Cedar Lake Village has gone beyond my expectation of keeping dad safe. Of course, he raves about the great food and even getting housekeeping services, but his safety is my utmost concern.”

“In our new environment of COVID-19 awareness, Cedar Lake Village has gone beyond my expectation of keeping dad safe.”

Cedar Lake Village features an indoor heated swimming pool and gym with various equipment residents can use any time. The staff strive to make exercise fun with a variety of small group classes, offering aqua aerobics, Tai-Chi, stretching

and balance, chair exercise, yoga, and more. Residents enjoy walking inside the building during the winter months and a beautiful walking path around the pond in warmer seasons.

“Some residents tracked their mileage to ‘walk across Kansas’ one summer, and they hit their goal so quickly we changed it to ‘walk across the USA,’” notes Randall. “We have some serious walkers at Cedar Lake Village!”

When residents are finished with fitness, they can treat themselves to great dining options. The community features both restaurant-style dining and cafeteria-style dining provided by chefs that make delicious meals for residents and a pastry chef who makes homemade bread and desserts from scratch—a resident favorite! Diners can choose, based on the daily menu, which dining room they prefer to go to each day, and each day features different choices for entrees, salads, bread, soups, and desserts.

The team at Cedar Lake Village is truly dedicated to sharing God’s love through the work of health, healing, and comfort.

Cedar Lake Village • 15325 S. Lone Elm Road, Olathe, KS • 913.780.9916 • cedarlakevillagekc.org SIMPLYkc Special: Contact Cedar Lake Village at 913.780.9916 with any questions or access its complimentary virtual tour at cedarlakevillagekc.org.

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, o h W

PHOTO BY JAMI MARSHALL

WHAT, WHERE

Meet Dr. Joseph Camarata Who: What:

Owner of Aesthetic Surgical Arts & Mia Bella Med Spa

Dr. Joseph Camarata is dedicated to helping you feel the way you should—beautiful. Whether you want a relaxing facial or need help clearing up stubborn acne, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, or getting rid of unwanted sun damage, Dr. Camarata and his staff can help.

Dr. Camarata received his doctorate of medicine from the University of Nebraska and his doctorate of medical dentistry from the University of Pittsburgh. He completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery residency program through the University of Texas Health Science Center and completed his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency through the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Camarata is one of Kansas City’s top doctors helping Kansas Citians reach their aesthetic goals.

Where:

FAVORITE PLACE TO DINE I really enjoy the ambience and menu at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood—there’s always a jazz band playing in the bar area. Bella Napoli in Brookside is a great place for authentic Italian meals. But, of course, you can’t beat the Capital Grille, Fiorella’s Jack Stack, or Lidia’s.

FAVORITE PLACE TO DRINK We have a water feature in our backyard

which depicts waterfalls and streams in the mountains. I have a wine deck that overlooks it and it is by far my favorite place to enjoy an adult beverage.

FAVORITE SHOPPING Anywhere on the Country Club Plaza and Nordstrom’s. I also enjoy going to Scheels, Cabela’s, and Bass Pro Shop.

FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

FAVORITE PLACES TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS One of Kansas City’s many barbecue restaurants. We’re the barbecue capital of the world!

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Lulu’s Boutique is an environmentally friendly boutique featuring pre-loved designer and vintage fashion, hand bags and accessories, locally made goods, gifts and fine art.

6017 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS • 913.362.2442 facebook.com/LulusBoutiqueKC/

Our fume-free environment is expertly designed with elegant decor, large selection of premium products + accessories and high sterilization standards ensure the utmost perfection in aesthetic, comfort + cleanliness.

Cuorebella is an uncommon shop where you’ll find unique gifts, holiday decor, home accessories, fine cards, and stationery. Gifts are wrapped and ready to present.

Hawthorne Plaza, 4953 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.325.7354 cuorebella.com

Shop LOCAL Support LOCAL

4941 W. 119th, Overland Park, KS • 913.274.1202 paintnailbar.com

Lingerie Whether you’re looking for a simple solitaire or an exquisite diamond ring, you will find the perfect piece of fine jewelry at Glitters Fine Jewelry. We are proud to be a premier Kansas City jewelry store, offering a wide assortment of timeless and stunning creations for all your special occasions.

We help ladies of most sizes find their “Sazzy” side by helping them find the perfect piece of lingerie! We also carry corsets, stockings, chemises, our own candle line and other gift items!

4250 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS • 913.661.0834 glitters.com

7228 W. 79th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.603.9771 sazzys.com

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HOME

WON’T YOU BE OUR NEIGHBOR? WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SUNDANCE RIDGE

T

“

here’s no place like home.” We all know where this quote is from because, as Kansas Citians, we just know. And if you don’t, try clicking your ruby slippers.

Home is Kansas. Or it might be Missouri because Kansas City is quirky like that.

But finding your home in Kansas or Missouri is not as easy as clicking ruby slippers. The Kansas City metro is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S. The job opportunities, professional sports, arts and culture, schools and, of course, best barbecue in the world all play a role in its appeal. There’s one more thing that inspires people to grow their roots in Kansas City— affordable housing.

All photos: Sundance Ridge

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There’s a lot of land to cover when searching for housing in Kansas City.

Kansas City has a lot to offer, but you will need to decide on several things before buying a home. How long is your commute? Where will the kids go to school? Do you want a neighborhood with older homes and charm? Or do you want a new neighborhood and new homes? Is walkability to shops and restaurants a factor?

Whether you’re new to the area or you’re a born-and-raised Kansas Citian, you’ll need experts to help you find your perfect home. And with mortgage interest rates so low, you might as well look.

We asked two of the top realtors in Kansas City to tell us where the up-andcoming neighborhoods are. Brenda Sanders is president of Rodrock & As-

Gardner, Kansas; Springhill, Kansas; & South Johnson County The southern Johnson County cities have exploded for many reasons, but their main attraction is the job opportunities. “The Intermodal facility in Gardner is the biggest one in the country,” Spradling explains. “Gardner also includes the Amazon warehouse. There

that’s really hard to do in Blue Valley.”

The homes range from the $400,000s to $1 million+. The neighborhood boasts a country club feel without being a country club, including a workout facility, an indoor basketball court, and bocce ball and pickleball courts.

Similar neighborhood to watch: Rodrock’s Mission Ranch

Northland: Smithville, MO Kansas City hotspots don’t all run south—the Northland is a hidden gem if you want the most house for your money. And one town known for its lake is also known for its affordable housing.

“Johnson County is getting expensive, especially for first-time home buyers.

One town that is blowing up, though, is Smithville,” Spradling says, “New construction on the outskirts of the Northland are a hot buy right now. It can be up to $50,000 cheaper to build in the Northland.”

Similar neighborhoods to watch: Liberty, Missouri

sociates Realtors and Zach Spradling is with Spradling Realty Group in Overland Park. The two gave us insight on the next Kansas City neighborhoods to call home.

Waldo: South Kansas City, MO Waldo is a charming neighborhood located on the south side of the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri. The neighborhood is walkable, bikeable, and full of everything from bakeries to restaurants and day spas to people-watching.

Due to its unique and historic homes, Waldo has become a popular area for young families to renovate homes while keeping the original charm.

“Waldo is a booming area with the amount renovations,” Spradling says.

“We see a lot of buyers swiping up homes in Waldo.”

Similar neighborhoods to watch: Downtown Overland Park and Brookside Park

are big job opportunities there. It’s just far enough to still hold a competitive edge in Johnson County. Because of its smaller population, Gardner is a city where large businesses become partners in a growing community.

Similar neighborhoods to watch: Spring Hill, Kansas

Sundance Ridge: 175th & State Line Rd., Overland Park, KS Building from new is a big draw if you don’t want to mess with maintenance and repairs. If you want to customize your new home, Rodrock is a trusted builder in Johnson County. And there is one neighborhood filling up fast, and for a good reason.

Sanders says, “The good thing about Rodrock’s Sundance Ridge is you can build a new home in the Blue Valley district in the mid-$400,000s. And

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INFOCUS

HELPING PATIENTS FIND THEIR BEST SELF

WRITTEN BY TE CUNNINGHAM / PHOTOS BY JAMI MARSHALL

In this day and age, we work hard, we play hard, and we sometimes struggle to find time for ourselves. Being your “best self” is the catchphrase of the day, but what does that mean?

Yes, self-care is essential and often ignored, but many of us struggle with wanting to lose those last 10 pounds or wishing a sagging jowl line was a bit tighter. And it can nag at us. While it’s not healthy to continually worry about your appearance, sometimes a minor procedure can bring new confidence and positively affect the way a person feels and acts.

Guests who are just sampling physical treatments may want to start with some options from Mia Bella Donna MedSpa. These include customized facials, HydraFacials, and IPL photo facials; custom chemical peels; injectables; dermaplaning; fractional laser skin resurfacing; laser hair reduction; eyebrow and eyelash tinting; SkinPen and microneedling; full facial and limited body waxing; SculptSure; and medical grade skincare products such as Obagi and Skin Medica.

That’s where Dr. Joseph C. Camarata and Mia Bella Donna MedSpa come in.

The staff are supportive, positive, and strive to create a spa-like atmosphere during guest visits. A beautifully appointed set of offices is graced with music, vibrant paintings, and soothing colors.

“This office is top-notch,” notes Brian S., who brought his son in for a surgical procedure. “They were so professional, but also very

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Pictured: Dr. Joseph C. Camarata

welcoming. They did a great job of keeping my son calm and relaxed throughout the whole procedure.

He left saying how awesome Dr. Camarata was.”

Many of these treatments are simple and quick, but have a significant impact on the way you look. For instance, if you are unhappy with your facial skin because it is dull or your pores are continuously clogged, you can get a 45-minute treatment

called a HydraFacial, which will clean your pores and give your skin a glowing new complexion. The team at Mia Bella Donna MedSpa highly recommend this service monthly, paired with a personalized skincare regimen.

“I’ve gone to Nikki a few times over the years, and the experience has been amazing every time! She had my face looking beautiful for my wedding and now continues to keep it looking great,” raves customer Tracie J. Perhaps you are already familiar with the medspa and are looking to make more significant changes to your appearance. The team at Aesthetic​ Surgical Arts subscribes to the ultimate in professional standards and practices.​You will receive the best in medical care while enjoying personalized service.

Aesthetic​Surgical Arts with Dr. Joseph C. Camarata includes procedures such as tummy tucks; liposuction; breast reduction, lift, and enlargement; facelift, rhinoplasty, and lip aug-

mentation; full arch dental implant reconstruction of upper and lower jaw using the All-on-4 implants; single dental implants; and bone-grafting and wisdom teeth removal.

“They did a great job of keeping my son calm and relaxed throughout the whole procedure.”

If a few of those procedures gave you pause, know that Dr. Camarata is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. This makes for a very diverse and unique practice! “With our full arch tooth replacement using dental implants, we transform people’s lives in a day,” he enthuses.

Dr. Camarata received his M.D. from the University of Nebraska and his D.M.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, graduating with distinction and honors. He completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery residency program through the University of Texas Health Science Center. And he completed his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency through the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

“Dr. Camarata and staff have worked with my husband, Gary, over the last five years. They’ve done an excellent job of removing teeth, inserting dental implants, and crafting a denture prosthesis to fit,” says Kathy R. “This was a challenge because Gary has a cleft palate that was repaired many years ago. They spent extra time with Gary to develop a personalized plan to deal with his individual issues. We intend to finish his dental work with lower implants and denture prosthesis in the next few months.”

Aesthetic Surgical Arts & Mia Bella Donna MedSpa • 12541 Foster St. Suite 330, Overland Park, KS • asa-kc.com Surgical Arts: 913.270.0649 • MedSpa: 913.270.0654

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BEAUTY

SCHOOL’S IN SESSION

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ACNE WRITTEN BY MADISON OBERMEYER

N

o matter what the early rom-coms may have you believe, acne does not miraculously disappear after your 16th birthday—and it can appear years before that sparkly teenage rite of passage even crosses your (or your parents’) brain.

Acne, albeit one of the more annoying aspects of growing up, can flare up when you least expect it, no matter your age. Between back-to-school craziness and stay-at-home confusion, a painful pimple is the last thing you need on your to-do list! Here we break down some of the most time-efficient, easiest treatments for every whitehead, cyst, and pustule out there.

Here’s how to ... ... treat a breakout—before the breakout It’s no secret that the first step to healthier skin is making sure it’s clean,

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and that often comes in the form of a foam, gel, or liquid cleanser.

Finding a cleanser that works for your skin type is paramount to encouraging a healthy canvas—a slate so clean that when that singular spot does pop up, you know exactly how to treat it. It can be difficult to stay away from pretty packaging cult favorites popping up on your Instagram feed, but medical cleansers are often the best way to hit the reset button if you’re struggling with hormonal or cyst-prone skin.

From there, you’ll want to get to know your skin better. Are you oily?

Normal? Maybe dry, or even a combination? You can always see a dermatologist for direct answers, but when in doubt, always test new products on a small patch of skin!

Getting to know the largest organ on your body takes time, so be gentle with yourself and be sure to arm that cleanser with the best defense

there is: a healthy, balanced diet and loads of water.

... pop a zit when you have delicate skin You stumble into the yellow light of your master bathroom and realize: You’re 52 years old, you’ve been working from home for the last six months, and your kids have been in the “summer break” mindset since mid-March … all of which has successfully culminated in a rather large cyst smack in the middle of your cheek.

Before you take to the beast with a metal contraption straight from a horror movie, take a deep breath, step back from the mirror, and think about your zit. That’s right, you’re in skincare timeout. Treating skin when you’re 40+ comes with its own set of rules, but tackling a zit will always come down to common sense.

Whenever you work on a delicate area of the face, you’ll want to put all those years of watching medical dramas to good use—figuratively, of course. What you need to do is make sure the zit in question is truly ready to be popped, as in, whitehead-and-ready-to-blow ready. Next, ensure your hands are clean and won’t be putting in any more germs below the surface. Grab some tissues and gently press on both sides of the pustule.

Don’t press harder if nothing comes out. There is a fine line between relieving your skin of the pressure below and savagely making way for scarring. Once finished, cleanse the area and apply a topical spot treatment.

... take care of scarring once and for all First things first—are you sure it’s a scar?

Decades of fighting breakouts can definitely be scarring, but when it comes to

the physical and not the psychological, it’s best to take a second look.

At first glance, what you think may be a scar could actually be hyperpigmentation or redness left over from ghosts of past zits. If so, ask your dermatologist about products with the depigmenting agent hydroquinone and recommendations on chemical peels, or practice your patience and wait for the redness to dissipate on its own.

However, if your skin has actually been disrupted, there are medical options to approach scarring like laser treatments, microneedling, or liquid injectables and fillers.

... fix a pimple, fast In reality, zits come up when we least expect—or want—them. For a quick fix on the go, pick up some pimple patches—sneaky skincare saviors that offer both camouflage and spot treatment— for skincare on the go.

Defy Age with Endermologie by

Sleek Physique Also available:

Trinity PRO & Fix CLINICALLY TESTED

PROVEN RESULTS

Before

After

Smooths • Tones • Slims Increases Exfoliation • Improves Clarity

Located within The Swanson Center

11413 Ash Street, Leawood, KS www.SkinYou.Love

913-339-8011

Cindy Baumann ENDERMOLOGIE SPECIALIST SINCE 2005

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DISH

RUBY JEAN’S JUICERY BLENDING UP DELICIOUS AND HEALTHY FARE

WRITTEN BY TE CUNNINGHAM PHOTOS BY ANNA PETROW

C

hris Goode, Ruby Jean’s Juicery owner and CEO, was first introduced to the world of juicing by friends in Los Angeles when he watched the documentary Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead. Following his first juice cleanse, which lasted 10 days, he felt better than he ever had and immediately thought of his late grandmother. He wished she’d had the knowledge and understanding of how important healthy eating and drinking truly was. Thus Ruby Jean’s Juicery was born.

There are now three KC area locations. The establishment offers handcrafted juice, smoothies, performance shakes, and a rich but healthy array of fare.

Why did you decide to name the business after your late grandmother?

Ruby Jean’s was birthed with my passion and sincere belief that the early departure of my grandmother, Ruby Jean, could have been avoided, and she might still be around

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Vegan Soul Food Bowl

had she made subtle changes in her diet. I wanted to promote the idea of health and longevity.

nutrients needed from fruits and vegetables, and it adds a wider variety to your diet.

Why juice?

What are some of the benefits your products deliver?

Depending on which health expert you listen to, it’s typically recommended to have 7-10 servings of fruits and veggies in just one day, which can be very hard to do with all the time challenges in our busy lives. Juicing is a great way to receive and retain the vitamins and

There are so many benefits with fruits and veggies it’s almost impossible to list them all. Some of the benefits are providing an energy boost, detoxing for your body, weight loss, boosting your immune system, reducing the risk of cancer,

supporting brain health, and helping provide optimal digestion. But there are more—that’s just off the top of my head!

How does a cleanse work?

Our cleanse is a simple and natural way to refuel your system with more vitamins and nutrients in a single day than you would consume in a typical month. A delicious blend of fresh fruits and vegetables will help detoxify your digestive system and bring a whole new level of energy, increased mental clarity, loss of excess weight, and an overall feeling of well-being.

You have a choice of anywhere from a three-day plan to a 14-day plan. Throughout the day, you will consume one 12-ounce bottle approximately every two hours while completely illuminating whole foods during your desired cleanse amount.

Why should potential customers give your place a try over other juice establishments?

My grandmother was a lady who connected her family and community members with a great sense of love and genuineness. Her legacy lives on through us, providing

Chris Goode, owner and CEO of Ruby Jean’s Jucery

the same level of care to the vast array of healthy options Ruby Jean’s Juicery offers.

Ruby Jean’s is a place meant for relaxation in a fresh, hip, and one-of-a-kind environment. I always say there is life in fruits and vegetables, and that same life and passion are cornerstones of the Ruby Jean’s brand! I believe our customers feel that when they come in and see us.

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INFOCUS

Pictured from Left to Right:

Hannah Mize, Co-Owner, Certified Aromatherapist, Allison Manuel Co-Owner, Certified Aromatherapist, Julianne Manuel, Co-Owner, Marketing Director

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AFFORDABILITY, HONESTY, & ESSENTIAL OILS: VERDANT OILS WRITTEN BY BRENNAN HALLOCK / PHOTOS BY JAMI MARSHALL

Starting a small business isn’t easy. It takes planning, research, and stepping out of your comfort zone.

But determination and enthusiasm are also key to making a business succeed, and Allison, Hannah, and Julianne brought determination, enthusiasm, and more when they founded Verdant Oils.

“Verdant Oils started as a few friends with a passion for essential oils and healthy living,” says Julianne. “We wanted to share our passion and experience with others, which led to a business idea and to two of our co-founders becoming certified aromatherapists.”

They began researching essential oils and realized it was difficult to find an affordable source of essential oils that didn’t compromise quality. As essential oils have grown in popularity, there have become more and more essential oils that are either diluted or mixed with synthetic chemicals. They decided to change that by making Verdant Oils a trusted source for high quality, affordable essential oils for every family.

Creating a healthy lifestyle shouldn’t be unaffordable, and customers shouldn’t be misled by low quality products. “Our goal is to offer pure essential oils and natural products as well as sharing our knowledge and experience with our customers so they can use them with confidence,” explains Julianne. “We provide GCMS reports on all our essential oils, which show every compound found in each batch of essential oil.” Verdant Oils also has two certified aromatherapists on staff, Allison and Hannah, who create all the blends sold and answer any questions customers may have.

The enthusiasm of the team at Verdant Oils can be seen in how they talk about their products. “Essential oils are a natural gift for living healthful-

ly,” says Allison. “What goes into your body—from food to skin products— affects every part of your health.”

Hannah adds, “Removing toxic chemicals and fragrances from my daily life has always been important, but became even more important after I had kids. I didn’t want to lather their little bodies in something that had ‘fragrance’ in the ingredients list, which could be a carcinogen, allergen, or endocrine distributor!”

“I love how essential oils can be incorporated into any lifestyle based on people’s different needs and what they’re comfortable with.”

Hannah says that being able to bathe her kids, clean her home, and diffuse with essential oils brings her peace of mind because essential oils are safe and naturally occurring, not to mention they have added health benefits.

“Whenever it comes to choosing things for me and my family, the closer to the original, natural form the better!”

Julianne says that her discovery of essential oils opened a whole new door to holistic health care. “I love how essential oils can be incorporated into any lifestyle based on people’s differ-

ent needs and what they’re comfortable with,” she explains. “Whether it’s just diffusing oils as an air freshener or to calm and relieve stress, making your own beauty products, or creating natural cleaners, there’s something for everyone!”

Katie, a customer of Verdant Oils, was looking for a gentle but effective face wash for a while without any success.

The team at Verdant Oils helped her find an anti-aging face oil, though, that she says has been a game changer. “I have used their face oil now for an entire year and I am more than pleased! My skin is much softer and brighter since I started using it,” she says. “I also love their oils and rollers.

You get top notch products for way less than you would at all the big corporate companies, and their oils are just as good, if not better!”

One of the numerous benefits of essential oils is they can be used for many purposes. For example, Verdant Oils now carries a hand sanitizer that is a safe and effective way to sanitize on the go without using any harmful or synthetic chemicals. There is also an Immune Support blend, which includes oils with antiviral and antibacterial properties to help strengthen and support the immune and respiratory system. There is even a new product called Eve’s Blend Rollerball which is created for the ladies and made with oils that help relieve PMS symptoms, balance hormones and mood swings, and ease period cramps.

Verdant Oils • 3216 Gillham Plaza, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO • 816.683.4400 • verdantoils.com • @verdantessentialoils

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PARENTING

4 WAYS TO MINIMIZE STRESS FOR CHILDREN WITH SENSORY OVERLOAD WRITTEN BY BRENNAN HALLOCK

I

f your child experiences sensory processing issues, you understand this can be a confusing and difficult matter.

The Child Mind Institute lists some symptoms of sensory processing disorder as “an unusual aversion to noise, light, shoes that are deemed too tight, clothes that are irritating … also clumsiness and trouble climbing stairs, and difficulty with fine motor skills like wielding a pencil and fastening buttons.” These are only a few of the many potential symptoms caused by sensory processing disorder, which manifests itself in atypical behavior resulting from “difficulty integrating information from the senses,” according to national nonprofit Child Mind Institute.

Melanie Kramer, certified pediatric nurse practitioner at Village Pediatrics

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in Prairie Village, Kansas, explains that other symptoms include “irritability, increased negative attitude, withdrawal from the situation, and hyperactivity.”

It’s good to have a few tricks on hand if your child experiences sensory processing issues so you and your child can handle potentially stressful events.

1

Prepare your child. Children

with sensory processing disorder usually dislike unexpected changes and events out of their normal routine. If you are going somewhere with your child that involves a change from their normal routine—such as a trip or vacation—it is good to prepare them beforehand. Sit down with your child and tell them what to expect, even storyboarding the event if possible.

For example: “First we’ll get in the car and drive to the airport. Then, in

the airport, we will have to put our luggage in bins and walk through a scanner.

Then we will wait for the airplane.” You could draw pictures of each sequence of events so your child better understands.

If the new experience involves going to a party or having people over, prepare your child by telling them who will be there and what order of events to expect. “Talk with your child about what is planned and who will be at each event so the child knows what to expect,” Kramer suggests. This will help them prepare for the extra stimulation, and hopefully handle it better.

2

Maintain a routine.

While at home, it is best you stay consistent

with your child’s routines. “Maintaining schedules and daily rules/expectations for manners is important to provide structure,” Kramer says. This can help when changes do come, because certain aspects of your normal routine can be continued even during times of transition. For example, you may keep a normal bedtime and meal times even while traveling.

3

Bring a sensory toolkit.

All parents know it’s important to have items that occupy children, no matter their circumstances. Having items on hand at all times that you know help calm your child can be beneficial. Items such as chewable necklaces (or other

safe chewable items), noise-canceling headphones, and tactile or fidget toys can be helpful.

4

Allow time to relax.

Be gentle with your child and yourself.

“Giving your kid plenty of downtime is helpful,” Kramer explains. Downtime in a quiet, remote location can be good for a child experiencing sensory overload, but it’s also helpful for you. It’s easy for you to become stressed because of the extra work. Spend time allowing your child and yourself to calm down so you can be the best parent to your child.

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

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INFOCUS

WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTOS BY ADRI GUYER

MORE THAN ESTHETICS: ELEVATE ESTHETICS PARLOR

Esthetics are a booming industry, and it’s easy to see why. The beauty industry has the advantage of making people feel better. It’s 2020.

We’re all in search of feeling better.

B

rows, lashes, facials, waxing—if you can see it, there’s probably an esthetician who specializes in it. But why take on a specialty when you’re an expert in every aspect of esthetics?

Sara Rieman is a licensed esthetician and owner of Elevate Esthetics Parlor, located in the Art Deco-era Barclay building in the historic Uptown Theater District.

Her brand encompasses all esthetics services, hence the name Elevate Esthetics Parlor. Her expertise in luxury facials, body waxing, brows, lashes, and spray tans has

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Please note: All photos were taken pre-COVID

earned her many awards, including a spot in the Top Ten Beauty Brands Estheticians Nationwide multiple consecutive years.

When asked what her niche is, Rieman says, “Exceptional quality and service excellence, that’s my niche, and that’s why I named my business Elevate. My three top

services are brows, brazilians, and facials, but I specialize in all esthetics services. If my client comes to me for brows, once here they’ll soon know I also provide an amazing facial service. I love being able to give my client everything they need without going elsewhere.”

Rieman designed her space to be

an elevated experience from the moment you walk in. It’s a place far from a corporate salon, where some may feel like a number. Her career path took her from a corporation where she had to set herself apart in a salon to her own oasis, where Elevate Esthetics Parlor caters to clients. The vibe feels high quality mixed with a sense of relaxation, like a retreat. There’s a high priority on cleanliness and sanitation too.

Molly Buchanan, author of the Crowning Glory blog, says, “I know some people are weirded out about getting beauty treatments right now. Everything was super clean and it still felt like a spa experience.

It was like nothing else can go wrong in my life.” Buchanan adds, “I did a skin consultation, which I’ve never seen an esthetician offer. I filled out a questionnaire and talked about my skin with her. It was so cool to nerd out about skin, because I didn’t know anything about it.”

Rieman is one of the few estheticians to offer a one-hour skin consultation.

It’s how Rieman can get to know you.

She wants to know what products you use and what you deem important.

Above all, Rieman wants to educate you on your skin and products that will work well for you.

Rieman carries the Circadia professional product line, a fami-

ly-owned company out of Pennsylvania. “Once I discovered that line, it was game over. It blows all the others out of the water. My clients see real results,” she says.

“That’s what 2020 needs a little more of—a place to elevate mindfulness, beauty, and relaxation.”

Amazing, luxurious products go hand-in-hand with a relaxing experience. Her signature facial is called Elevation: A Meditation Facial Treatment, and features guided meditations created by two area meditation experts, specifically for the meditation facial. This zen facial will put you in the moment and allow you to be more mindful before, during, and after. When asked how she created this idea for a facial, Rieman says, “When you’re about to open a business for the first time, all you do is live, eat, and breathe creative business ideas. During that time, while attending a meditation class, it occurred to me that a healthy mind creates healthy

Please note: All photos were taken pre-COVID

skin. Meditation and facials are the perfect combination.”

When asked for her favorite beauty secrets, she says, “If you feed your soul, your beauty shines through.

Prioritize self-care rituals like facials, massages, meditation, and exercise.

Go explore Kansas City! I adore this city! My husband and I try to support local business whenever we can. I will always support local. And I will always support women and small businesses.”

And that’s what 2020 needs a little more of—a place to elevate mindfulness, beauty, and relaxation.

Sara Rieman, Licensed Esthetician and Owner of Elevate Esthetics Parlor

Elevate Esthetics Parlor • 3619 Broadway Blvd., Suite 10, Kansas City, MO • 816.945.2889 • elevateskinkc.com SIMPLYkc Special: Purchase a Mixology facial in the month of September & receive a Facial Staycation Kit for FREE ($50 value).

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r a e D

KACIE THE COVID FISH BOWL

We have a neighbor situation. The lady across the street prowls the neighborhood looking for “COVID violations.” She screams profanities at us for chatting in our driveways because, in her mind, social distancing means no socializing at all. She calls the police on lone joggers without a mask and gloves.

She’s called the police so many times, she’s not allowed to call the police anymore. The final straw is her aiming her security cameras toward our houses. Help us! What do we do?

My grandma once put a bag of dog poop on her neighbor’s porch and set it on fire because they wouldn’t pick up their dog’s poop in her yard. Everyone knows you can’t argue with crazy. But they did get the point and started picking up their dog poop. My grandma passed away last year, God rest her soul.

I’m not saying you should start listening to your crazy neighbor. I’m just pointing out that some neighbors need to relax a little bit. It’s best to ignore her. As far as the cameras go, you might have a case against her. You can’t expect privacy while in your yard or driveway, but you do have a reasonable expectation of privacy inside your own home. My best advice is to start walking around naked in your home and contact a lawyer.

And don’t forget to pick up your dog poop (with gloves, of course).

If you have any questions you’d like Kacie to answer, submit them to contact@simplykcmag.com.

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INFOCUS

A NEW GROCERY & RESTAURANT MEETS THE NEED FOR A HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVE WRITTEN BY REBECCA FISCHER / PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BILLIE’S GROCERY

The need for healthy food options in America is enormous. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 75 percent of the population doesn’t get enough vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats in their diet. Here in Kansas City, local restaurateur Robin Krause is making herself part of the solution.

After her father’s sudden death from a heart attack a few years ago, Krause began her formal education in healthy eating. She became a nutritional therapist practitioner, and decided to help people by offering healthy food options and classes.

“My dad was a big inspiration for me.

I always wanted to open a restaurant with him, partly because I wanted him to eat a healthier diet,” says Krause. The idea for Billie’s Grocery (named after her father) was born.

Located off Gillham Road near Linwood Boulevard in KC’s Union Hill neighborhood, Billie’s Grocery offers nutrient-dense, mostly organic whole-food options. This includes gluten-free options, dairy-free options, in-house fermented veggies, organic juices, grass-fed burgers, and even some healthy takes on cocktails.

No vegetable oils or GMOs are used.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for on the menu, Krause says the team is able to customize recipes easily to meet whatever dietary restrictions or goals you have. Several prepackaged and bottled items are also available to buy, including the house fermented hot sauce.

In addition to her passion for helping people get healthy, Krause loves to cook. In fact, many of the menu items at Billie’s feature recipes she perfected in her own kitchen at home, including the popular lemongrass coconut shrimp.

“I can’t wait to go back there,” says

Prairie Village resident Dean Hoffman. “I stopped by to grab the Thai salad and saw the Reuben sandwich on the menu and couldn’t resist. I got home and had to try a bite of the sandwich. Needless to say, I ate the whole thing, so the Thai salad became my dinner.”

“It is a tough time to open Billie’s, but the need for health-driven options is on the rise and I don’t see it slowing down.”

Although Kansas City (and the rest of the world) was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic when Billie’s opened on June 1, Krause has been determined not to let it stop her dream.

“We opened with a limited menu, about a quarter of the size, but we’ll be ready to add more when it makes sense,” she says. The patio provides an outdoor dining option, and dinner will soon be served in addition to the current breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

Billie’s isn’t Krause’s first restaurant, though. She also created The Filling Station restaurants, which she sold shortly after her father’s death, as well as Unbakery & Juicery off 63rd Street in Brookside.

In addition to serving nutritious, delectable foods, Billie’s also offers a wide range of cooking classes taught by local chefs, at the rate of 2-3 classes per week.

“Some classes we’ve had include raw desserts, gluten-free baking, knife skills, a fermentation class, a charcuterie board class, and themed classes like street tacos, southeast Asian, dumplings from around the world, and boujee wine pairing dinners,” says Krause. “It gives local chefs an outlet for sharing what they do—a little exposure, and it’s paid—and it gives people a chance to change things up. It can be even more important to try new things, especially since we’re all having to spend more time at home.”

The team takes every recommended precaution when it comes to in-house classes, including regularly sanitizing all surfaces, observing physical distancing, and making mask-wearing mandatory.

For guests who don’t want to dine in, curbside pickup is available. You can also find options from Billie’s at Unbakery, which features a drivethrough.

Although Krause and her team are in a bit of a holding pattern until COVID-19 subsides, when they’ll roll out the full menu at Billie’s, you certainly won’t find Krause sitting around. She’s currently studying Chinese medicine and herbology to further her nutrition education.

But Billie’s Grocery is a new concept.

Billie’s Grocery • 3216 Gillham Plaza, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO • 816.683.4400 • billiesgrocery.com

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Pictured: Robin Krause, Owner of Billie’s Grocery

Cooking classes are held at Billie’s Grocery taught by local chefs, including classes on raw desserts, gluten-free baking, fermentation, and more.

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BECAUSE I SAID SO...

HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF WRITTEN BY JULIE BURTON / PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA LEVI

They say history repeats itself. I don’t know who “they” are. Historians? Wellread people? I’m guessing there is no one over the age of 102 who can actually tell us if the coronavirus pandemic is a repeat of the 1918 flu pandemic.

I’m neither a historian nor a well-read person, but I can do a pretty good Google search. We’ve seen worldwide public outbreaks in our lifetimes such as SARS and H1N1, but the 1918 flu pandemic is one that is compared to COVID-19. They’re not the same virus, but they have similar symptoms.

In 1918, health officials and the public reacted to the pandemic by wash-

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ing their hands, wearing a mask, and staying in quarantine. Sound familiar?

History repeats itself.

We’re living history. We’ve all wondered what we’d be doing if the pandemic never occurred in our lifetimes.

I can’t speak for anyone in 1918. I’ve only googled. You don’t need me to tell you how our lives changed in

2020. Working from home, Zoom calls, social distancing, wearing masks, schools canceled, concerts canceled, date nights canceled, hugs from Grandma—canceled.

Life still goes on in 2020. It’s not all gloom. There are sweet moments that won’t make it into history books. It’s not easy to find happy

stories during a worldwide pandemic, but I have one.

full of groceries toward his parked car.

I think he even stood on the bar below the handlebars and rode the cart like you see kids do. He wore all pink: pink gym shorts, a pink T-shirt, hot pink knee-high socks, a pink bandana wrapped around his forehead, and a pink mask. Without a doubt, he wore a smile too.

I was standing in line at the grocery store. I wasn’t inside at a register. I was outside, 6 feet from the nearest shoppers. Our feet were planted on the marked Xs on the concrete. We were waiting outside due to the one-in oneout policy.

He shouted, “I just became a grandpa! I’m a grandpa!” The line lifted our hands in pretend high fives and we

I saw an older man run out of the grocery store going full steam—nothing could stop him. He pushed his cart

yelled, “Congratulations!”

The man wouldn’t be able to go to the hospital to see his new granddaughter because that’s something that isn’t allowed in 2020. I wondered when he would get to meet her. Hopefully, two months later he has met her.

The little girl is a reminder of the generation that can say they were born during COVID-19. Who knows? She may even live to be 102, because history repeats itself.

Julie Burton is an Overland Park mom, writer, 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

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GOOD TASTES

DELICIOUS MEMORIES WRITTEN BY GINA REARDON / PHOTO ANYA JANOWSKI

When my firstborn son, Adam, was engaged to be married, his fiancĂŠ asked me to teach her to make his favorite, an apple pie. We had our one-on-one class, with me bringing her what I felt were the essential tools. We worked through the process side by side, an afternoon of sharing and bonding.

I always look forward to the first apple pie of the fall season with the excitement of a child in an apple orchard. One of my favorite desserts when short on time, though, is this delicious apple tart, which uses just a few ingredients, including frozen puff pastry, an alternative to pie dough for the less expert among us. With cinnamon whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, this dessert will trigger the same nostalgic memories and satisfy that yearning for simple flavors that continue to bring comfort and joy.

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Apple Tart Serves 6 INGREDIENTS 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (Darfour or Pepperidge Farm) 3 fresh apples (Golden Delicious, Granny Smith or other baking apples), peeled, cored, quartered, and cut into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick 5 tablespoons apple butter (I prefer Stephenson’s Apple Orchard or Mussleman’s) 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2-3 tablespoons superfine or granulated sugar 1 egg, whisked with 1 tablespoon water Turbinado or raw sugar

EQUIPMENT

One baking sheet; parchment paper to line the baking sheet; 9-10 inch bottom of tart pan or springform pan to use as guide.

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Defrost puff pastry according to package directions. Unfold onto lightly floured pastry cloth and gently smooth out the folds with a rolling pin. Using the bottom of the tart pan as a guide, cut the pastry into a 10-11-inch circle. Slide the tart pan bottom under the dough to support it and place on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Using a spoon and offset spatula, spread the apple butter evenly over the pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border all the way around. Arrange the apple slices on the apple butter and pastry, overlapping them in tight, concentric circles to fill the tart, leaving the border free. Gently brush apple slices with melted butter.

Fold the pastry over the apple slices to create a rustic border edge, pleating or pinching where necessary. Brush lightly with egg mixture. If you have any scraps of dough, you can cut them into pretty shapes to decorate the border, if desired. Sprinkle pastry with raw sugar for sparkle!

Place baking sheet in the lower third of the oven and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove from oven, brush again with melted butter and return to oven.

Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and apples are tender. Remove from oven and sprinkle fruit evenly with remaining granulated sugar. Cut into wedges and enjoy!

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7 THINGS

7

PRODUCTS TO ADD TO YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE

1 Hyaluronic

Acid:

Hyaluronic acid—aka hyaluronan, a substance naturally produced by your body— can basically do it all. Start out simple with a hyaluronic acid serum (applied before moisturizer!) to help your skin retain water and keep your tissue lubricated and moist.

2 Vitamin C:

Antioxidants aren’t just for smoothies!

Mixing a vitamin C serum into your routine can help fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots, give you that natural glow, and promote collagen production.

3 Niacinamide:

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. In moisturizers, niacinamide can help grow your skin’s lipid barrier, helping moisture stay put (even when temperatures start to drop).

4 Sunscreen:

You’ve heard it a million times, but chances are you typically only remember this step in your skincare routine en route to the beach. Search for a lightweight sunscreen that can go on plain or under makeup each day.

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5 Purifying Clay Mask:

The equivalent to taking off your mask after a long day? A purifying clay mask!

Cult favorites are typically 100 percent bentonite clay powders you can mix with water or apple cider vinegar to create a muddy texture and use as a face mask (the fun kind, at least). In just 5-10 minutes, you’ll have clean pores and a clear mindset.

6 Toner:

From witch hazel to alcohol-based, there are tons of toners that have many benefits—the key is to listen to what your skin needs. Drier skin may need a moisturizing toner, while oil-prone skin could benefit from an astringent.

7 A Good Moisturizer:

Even if it means having a morning and night moisturizer, it’s time to invest. It may mean doing your research with test samples and airplane-approved sizes, but finding the moisturizer that works for your skin and your budget will be worth it all!

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APP OF THE MONTH

INSIGHTTIMER A REVIEW OF RELAXATION

The gist: How do you feel when you have a little down time? Anxious? Bored? Do you whip out your phone and start scrolling through your social feeds?

It wasn’t long ago that “free time” was considered a luxury reserved for the wealthy. Today, almost everyone has at least some idle time.

If you need a little help relaxing during your free time, consider checking out the free InsightTimer app, even if the only thing you use is the timer itself. It wil help you sit quietly for a few moments.

The classic meditation “bell” options—including Tibetan singing bowls, temple wood blocks, and gongs—will elevate your experience.

There’s also a wide range of free guided meditations, music, recordings for kids, talks, and more— including an entire section dedicated to helping improve your sleep via thousands of free music tracks, meditations, and stories.

Search “the largest free library on Earth” by benefits (Recovery & Healing, Relationships, For Parents, etc.), origins (Science, Religion, Spirituality, etc.), practices (mindfulness, visualization, movement, etc.) or teacher, with further categories within those categories. Live events are a new feature.

Create a free profile to keep a running total of how many days you’ve meditated, connect with others and send messages, “favorite” and follow teachers, and more.

One of the best free apps out there. Check it out!

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WORK WITH YOUR SKIN. NOT AGAINST IT.

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