Issuu

WINTER 2018 | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 4

A p ub lic at io n o f th e Soa ve Automotive G roup.

Treat yourself to the ultimate holiday gift The Mercedes-Benz with 4MATIC® All-wheel Drive. All-season competence. All-road confidence. From a menacing winter storm to a challenging corner, 4MATIC® all-wheel drive makes the most of available traction by precisely engaging all four wheels. More than letting all four tires do the work equally, 4MATIC® features a number of advanced, and quick-thinking innovations to empower each wheel individually as conditions change. So whether you’re starting out on a slippery patch, encountering a sudden change in the weather, or even rounding a dry curve, 4MATIC® helps you put your best foot forward.

9400 West 65th St | Merriam, KS | 913.677.3300 | aristocratmotors.com

13851 Madison Avenue | Kansas City, MO | 816.943.7000 | mbofkc.com Members of the Soave Automotive Group

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

by MARION BATTAGLIA

I want to take this opportunity to thank you, our valued customers, for your support, business, and friendship. I would like to wish all of you a great holiday season and a very happy new year. The entire staff of all the dealerships of the Soave Automotive Group make a constant effort to provide world-class service. That focus on world-class service will continue as we open our greatly expanded Jaguar-Land Rover facility and our all-new Porsche building. I would like to invite you to come out and see these two additions to the Aristocrat Motors campus. The Jaguar-Land Rover facility is open and presents these two great brands in bright new surroundings. Its opening also brings our incredible Pre-Owned department under that same rooftop. The Porsche of Kansas City facility reflects the Porsche brand and its unique mix of historical greatness and technological leadership. I invite you to stop by when it opens in early December. We will be planning a Grand Opening in the spring, and you can expect to receive an invitation to join us in a formal opening of both new facilities. As we grow, it becomes increasingly important to better serve you, our customer, and to do that, I would personally like to have your feedback. Please let me know how we can make your experience with our dealerships better and more rewarding. To do this, I would like you to reach out to me directly and give me your thoughts. I would like to hear any thoughts you may have; my email address is mbattaglia@ aristocratmotors.com. I invite you to participate in our continuing quest for giving you a worldclass automotive ownership experience.

Marion Battaglia, President

2 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

"As we grow, it becomes increasingly important to better serve you, our customer, and to do that, I would personally like to have your feedback."

Every season demands that we show up.

That we touch, breathe deep and try on, instead of clicking and hoping.

Where experts are waiting with styles to set your confidence on fire.

S EE YO U R S EL F I N

CROWN CENTER, LEVEL 3 • 816.274.3222 MON – SAT: 10 AM – 7 PM • SUN: 12 – 6 PM

EDITOR'S LETTER

by ROBERT HELLWEG

With a great deal of pride, I would like to present to the readers of Today Kansas City a special SUV as our featured vehicle and the subject of Tom Strongman’s review: the 2019 BMW X5. This is not because of the vehicle, and, as you will see, it is a great new addition to our offerings, but it’s because it’s a recognition of our BMW Volkswagen dealership in Topeka. BMW | VW of Topeka is the newest member of the Soave Automotive Group, and its new facilities are located at 3030 South Kansas Avenue. As one of our current customers, we stand ready to help you if a new or Certified Pre-owned BMW or Volkswagen is on your shopping list. As you might know, we have been changing the face of the Aristocrat Motors campus, as well, with the addition of an all-new Porsche facility, to be named Porsche of Kansas City, and an expanded Jaguar-Land Rover facility. In the next issue, we will take you on a tour of the completed dealerships, two new facilities that we are immensely proud of. In this issue of Today Kansas City, I hope you will enjoy the look at pet adoptions and what to think about if you are giving a dog or cat as a holiday gift. The agencies want you to look beyond the “cuteness and cold nose” for the just the right fit for your newest family member. Another feature is something old that has become new again in Kansas City. Our fashion feature spread was taken at Kansas City’s oldest theater, the Folly. Kenny Johnson, our photographer, brought out the look and feel of the theater, not only in the photos but the Art Nouveau looks. And, of course, the clothes and jewelry are incredible. Enjoy, and the entire Soave Automotive Group wishes you a very happy holiday season and a joyous and peace-filled new year.

FASHION TEAM: The fashion

MARION BATTAGLIA President KEVIN KILLILEA Vice President ANGIE LEWITZKE Controller ROBERT HELLWEG Marketing Director KRIS NIELSEN Sales Operations SCOTT SWENSON General Manager Factory Relations LARRY MILLER Inventory Director MARK DOESCHER Parts Director JOHN HOWDEN General Manager Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City PAUL LEVIN General Manager BMW | VW of Topeka NEW VEHICLE SALES MANAGERS DAVID ANDREWS Aristocrat Motors ED NOBLETT Maserati | Alfa Romeo of Kansas City KIRK WILLMS Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City CHUCK OBRIEN Porsche Kansas City JOE SIRNA Jaguar-Land Rover BRIAN MAYER BMW | VW of Topeka PRE-OWNED MANAGERS JK CORNELIUS Aristocrat Motors GEOFF BEDINE Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City SERVICE MANAGERS CHUCK DAVIS Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City CHARLES FRIEDMAN Aristocrat Mercedes-Benz |

Maserati | Alfa Romeo

RODNEY PARKER Aristocrat Motors | Porsche KEVIN SMELL Jaguar-Land Rover of Merriam RAINER WILL BMW | VW of Topeka PARTS MANAGERS BILL WELLS Aristocrat Motors RICH WITT Jaguar-Land Rover of Merriam DAVID BARNES Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City JOSH MCGREW BMW | VW of Topeka

team is comprised of nationally

ROBERT HELLWEG

published individuals—

ALLYSON ELLIS

photographer Kenny Johnson and

KATHRYN CREEL

fashion stylist Amani Skalacki.

MARCI LINN

Editor | 913.677.7414

Sales Director | 913.634.3838 Creative Director | 913.742.1214

Copyeditor

ON THE COVER: 2019 Mercedes-

KENNY JOHNSON

Cover & Fashion Photographer

Benz S560 4MATIC; attire from

AMANI SKALACKI

Cover & Fashion Stylist

Gown Gallery; jewelry from Mazzarese; model is Ali Turner from Voices&; hair and makeup by Traci Morby. Shot at the Folly Theater.

4 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

SOAVE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

Printer: Walsworth 306 N. Kansas Ave.| Marceline, MO 64658 | 800-265-6795 TODAY KANSAS CITY is a quarterly publication by Soave Automotive Group – home of Aristocrat Motors, Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City, BMW of Topeka, and VW of Topeka. Address: 9400 W 65th St, Merriam, KS 66203, 913.677.3300, aristocratmotors.com. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.

Modern Art

design | cabinetry | lifestyle

Portfolio K i t c h e n

h o m e

Fla g sh ip S to re 215 W. Pershing Road Kansas City  Missouri  64108 816.363.5300

www. por tfoli o - ho m e. co m

INSIDE WINTER 2018

Features 8 ARCHITECTURE

Inspiring Innovation: Think Like a Designer. by Bill Johnson

14 FOOD

Novel: A New Narrative in the Crossroads. by Emily & Stewart Lane

20 AUTOMOTIVE

2019 BMW X5: Bigger, More Efficient, and Loaded with Technology. by Tom Strongman

28 FASHION

Fashion Takes Center Stage. photos by Kenny Johnson | styling by Amani Skalacki

39 NONPROFIT

A Home for the Holidays. by Kelsey Cipolla

44 PROFILE

Where Style is the Standard. by Patricia O'Dell

51 INTERIOR DESIGN

Midcentury Modernism Is Still Where It’s At. by Stacy Downs

54 DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT A New Bronze Age. by Jennifer Lapka

61 HEALTH

What If Life Had a Backspace Key? by Dr. Linda Moore

66 CALENDAR

Kansas City Events.

6 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

2019 Mercedes-Benz S560 4MATIC Attire, Halls Jewelry, Mazzarese

ARCHITECTURE by BILL JOHNSON | photos courtesy of HOK

Inspiring Innovation: Think Like a Designer. I’m fortunate to be in a field where even the smallest of projects in scope can have a tremendous impact on people. We’re designing places where people live, work, and play and the developments that make a city come alive. Every project has the opportunity to be greater than the sum of its parts. But this requires an approach that is marked by an unwavering commitment to protecting creativity, encouraging experimentation, and celebrating individualism in design. Only with this approach can we integrate diverse solutions to contribute to the vitality of our broader community. Over the last several years, I’ve taught Professional Practice at the University of Kansas, covering topics that extend far beyond design. As Kansas City grows and evolves, and our city becomes home to more and more startups, incubators, and small businesses, there are valuable lessons to be learned from how architects and designers approach their work that can inspire growth and change among our business community. In that vein, I’d like to share with you some of the valuable ways that designers and architects work – and how our approach can positively influence any business.

INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS The best solutions rarely are derived from a single person, working in solitude to solve a problem. In design, some of our best ideas are the results of surprising collaborations. We frequently hold charrettes, formal brainstorms that encourage creative thinking. We pin up ideas, write, draw, and sketch. There is no bad idea in a charrette, only creative thinking that serves as a springboard for creative solutions. In these charettes, we find success not only in the ideas themselves but also in the collaborative spirit that is fostered.

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 9

ARCHITECTURE

Look outside of your industry and competitors for inspiration. Consider how you can collaborate with those who have specialized knowledge. In the case of one of our recent projects, which featured a retractable roof, we partnered with Chuck Hoberman, known for his influence on kinetic architecture through the design of the Hoberman Sphere. In other cases, we seek out experts in topics like fundraising, or ask stakeholders like student-athletes what they would most like to see in an experience. This was a recent strategy with UMKC to gain insight for our work on Swinney Recreation Center. These surprising collaborations result in more integrated, thoughtful solutions. We reach outside our industry often out of necessity, but business owners should reach outside even when they think they know best. This thoughtful evaluation and the invitation of others into your business

10 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

and process are what make the difference between a good company and a great company. Innovation districts, like the Cortex Innovation Community in St. Louis, designed by HOK, are a great example of how this spirit of collaboration can pay dividends for those outside of the architecture industry. This project brought together diverse companies with a passion for innovation, including CIC, Microsoft, and Square, in one district with shared amenities to drive inspiration. It’s generated 3,800 tech-related jobs and more than $500 million in investment in the last 15 years. When fully built-out, the project is expected to generate $2 billion in development and more than 13,000 jobs. There is a demand for collaboration; and as more businesses see the value in collaboration, the more districts like this we can anticipate arising.

EYE STYLE OPTICS 4050 INDIAN CREEK PKWY | OVERLAND PARK, KS 66207

913-313-1207 | EYESTYLEOPTICS.COM

CONSIDER THE EXPERIENCE We often talk about designing for the experience, whether it’s the traveler experience, fan experience, visitor experience, or retail experience. We thoughtfully consider the experience people have as they enter a building, explore a space, engage with the environment, and even as they travel home. These experience-driven considerations are integral for any business considering the holistic customer experience. Just as we do in architecture, I encourage you to consider connection points – the moments where you interface with your customers. Create a plan of how your clients will be engaged each step of the way – whether that’s in a physical retail environment or in the digital world in the professional services world. Evaluate what is working and what isn’t, and invite valued customers into the process to provide feedback on how that experience can be elevated.

INNOVATION + TRANSFORMATION The road to innovation and transformation for a business, a community, or a city all begins with asking the right questions. And usually, the right question is “why?” It’s a question that designers toil over, seeking to understand the reason behind the building, space, or district. And while it’s a question top of mind in the architecture industry, it’s not assessed with enough frequency in business. Many of the greatest challenges we face as business owners can be reoriented by refocusing on the why. In Simon Sinek’s book Finding Your Why, he explains: “If we want to feel an undying passion for our work, if we want to feel we are contributing to something bigger than ourselves, we all need to know our why.” Take time to ask why are you doing what you do? What’s the why behind your organization? By asking this, I think you’ll find the why is rarely a revenuedriven outcome. The why is usually an aspirational statement that speaks to a broader impact that changes, informs, and inspires people.

12 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

Bill Johnson is a senior principal and the design principal for HOK’s Kansas City practice. Recognized as a leader in the design of sports and entertainment facilities and Kansas City infrastructure, Bill Johnson’s portfolio of work includes professional, workplace, civic, mixed-use, and collegiate facilities across the country. His approach is defined by his ability to develop integrated solutions that achieve the unique objectives of each client.

FOOD words by EMILY & STEWART LANE | photos by ANNA PETROW TOMATO CEVICHE — local heirloom tomatoes in a yuzu and sudachi ponzu sauce, pickled strawberries, cucumber, red onion, herbs.

NOVEL

A New Narrative in the Crossroads.

Emily Lane: Have you ever heard someone say, “change your location, change yourself”? This adage has bits of truth, but only in the best way possible, when discussing Novel, the new American restaurant that is the brainchild of chef Ryan Brazeal. After having been housed in the old Lill’s on 17th space on the Westside for the past five years, Brazeal and his crew relocated Novel to a new, contemporary space in the East Crossroads this past spring. We couldn’t wait to check out the new feel for a place, which not only has become beloved in Kansas City, but that is nationally recognized and lauded. Stewart Lane: We arrived on a warm summer night that required a refreshing beverage, and the mixologists at Novel have curated an incredible menu of re-invented cocktails and house creations. I had the Queen Bee, comprised of Rieger Gin, mead,

14 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

PORK TOAST— braised pork belly, shoulder and ham breaded and fried, avocado, smoked tomato hoisin sauce, red onion and cilantro.

2019 RANGE ROVER VELAR

STUNNING AND LUXURIOUS BY DESIGN

MSRP FROM $46,900* Some prefer to listen to their heads, others their hearts. With the Range Rover Velar, you have the luxury of listening to both. Your head tells you it’s a Land Rover vehicle with legendary go-anywhere capability. Then you take a look at the stunning exterior silhouette, the perfect waistline with flush deployable door handles and optional burnished copper details. Now listen. That’s the sound of your heart racing. Land Rover Merriam 9400 W. 65th Street, Merriam, KS 913 677 3300 AristocratLandRover.com

Vehicle shown: 2019 Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE with optional equipment. The vehicle’s headlamp technology is not available in the U.S. and Canada. *Price shown is Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the 2019 Range Rover Velar. Supplies are limited. Excludes destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See Land Rover Merriam for complete details, or call (800) FIND-4WD / 1-800-346-3493. © 2018 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

AGNOLOTTI braised duck neck and foie gras, port wine syrup, pickled cherries, herbed bread crumbs.

dandelion juniper cordial, and lemon. Light, refreshing with a touch of sweetness and herbal backdrop, it was a perfect segway to our meal. We started with the tomato ceviche, which is accompanied by pickled strawberries, cucumbers, and red onions, and finished with a yuzu and ponzu sauce. Each bite was a taste of summer and a nod to the chef’s seasonality of his menus. Next was the pork toast, a substantial dish of shredded ham, pork belly, and shoulder, all deep fried and served with rich avocado and a sharp smoked-tomato hoisin sauce. Each bite was crispy and soft, rich yet acidic, hearty yet herbal. The balance of bold and subtle flavors leaves you thoroughly satiated after your plate is clear. EL: While we opted to sit in the dining room, you could easily make a night of sitting at the new 18-seat bar, which is located at the front of the restaurant. Stewart and I were fortunate enough to be seated near the open kitchen, complete with a chef’s counter, so we could observe the flurry of the behind-the-scenes activity. Going from the tiny house on 17th Street to the 3,300-square-foot restaurant that feels more like a contemporary art gallery allows for a greater sense of community as you dine. I suspect it would also work well for larger dinners or events.

SL: New to the Novel menu are house-crafted pastas, which show another layer of chef Brazeal’s skill. Tender Agnolotti pasta filled with rich, braised duck necks and foie gras served with a port wine syrup, tart pickled cherries, and herbed breadcrumbs was a huge hit with us (and we’re told, everyone who tries it). We were impressed by the texture of the crisp breadcrumbs along with the delicate pasta and rich filling, accentuated by the acidic, yet sweet, pickled cherries and port syrup. This was a perfect way to move into our main course: halibut, pan-seared to a golden crust, topped with a cucumber-based tartar sauce with celery, capers, and briny trout roe. Chef Brazeal took extra care to ensure his vegetable sides stood on their own on this impressive menu; so we enjoyed several of those, as well. Fried cauliflower dressed with walnut vinaigrette and smoked raisins twisted the traditional flavors of a cauliflower salad into a unique experience. The seasonal wild mushrooms sautéed with ginger and green onions were expertly caramelized to enhance their flavor while still being plump and delicate. I was so enamored with a particular side, the creamed spinach with celery root puree, that we had to order a sample. Of course, longtime fans of Novel will be happy to know the famous Duroc pork chop is still on the menu, and it is as satisfying as ever.

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 17

KEY LIME CHIFFON PIE —

passionfruit caramel, coconut.

EL: One of the best assets to chef Brazeal’s restaurant is his pastry chef (and lovely wife), Jessica Armstrong. She made a name for herself in Kansas City as the pastry chef at Bluestem, and she has incredible skill when it comes to creative and satiating desserts. Although I could have ordered one of each item offered on the dessert menu, the warm evening called for a cool dessert – the Key lime chiffon pie. I devoured every bite in record time. It was light, citrusy, with a perfect crust and just the right amount of sweetness. And it was enjoyable to watch her artfully prepare the dessert at the chef’s counter as we waited. Needless to say, Novel, has established itself on the Kansas City culinary landscape, and this relocation has given it all the tools to continue growing and bringing new, inventive classics to our community. Novel is located at 1927 McGee, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, and is open Tuesday–Saturday starting at 5:00 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended.

18 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

Emily and Stewart Lane are natives to Kansas City. Stewart is the research and development chef for Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions catering. Emily’s career has been designing marketing and events for various arts and sports organizations. Together, their lives are surrounded by food, culture, and friends. The incredible accompanying food photos by Anna Petrow are both indulging and captivating works of art. Anna is a freelance photographer whose work has been seen in The New York Times.

# HOLIDAYYOURWAY

Oak Park Mall level 1

AUTOMOTIVE words and photos by TOM STRONGMAN

2019 BMW X5

Bigger, More Efficient, and Loaded with Technology. The all-new, fourth-generation of the BMW X5 capitalizes on the strengths of the previous iteration while moving upscale with more space, refinement, and technology. The X5 was introduced almost 20 years ago, and it is built exclusively in BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina, plant. More than 2.2 million have been sold worldwide, about one-third of those sales being in the U.S. There are two models: The xDrive 40i and the xDrive 50i. Both are available in xLine or M Sport configurations. Prices begin at $60,700 for the 40i and $75,750 for the 50i. The vehicle reviewed here was the xDrive 40i with a sticker price of $73,480. The X5’s 117.1-inch wheelbase is now 1.6 inches longer, height is up by 1 inch, width is up a sizeable 2.6 inches, yet overall length has only grown by 1.1 inch. The gain in interior spaciousness is notable in both headroom and legroom. The larger cabin not only has more room for passengers and luggage, but it can accommodate the

The 2019 BMW X5 that Tom Strongman test drove was provided by the Soave Automotive Group’s BMW dealership in Topeka. BMW | VW of Topeka is ready to assist your salesperson at either of the other two dealerships in providing the BMW or VW that you want. They are located at 3030 South Kansas Avenue, or online at BMWVWTopeka.com.

20 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

2019 BMW XDRIVE 40I Engine: 3.0-liter, 335-horsepower six-cylinder Transmission: 8-speed automatic xDrive all-wheel drive Wheelbase: 117.1 inches Curb weight: 4,813 pounds Base price: $60,700 As driven: $73,480 MPG rating: 20 in the city, 26 on the highway

AUTOMOTIVE

optional third-row seat that will be available near the end of this year. Vehicles equipped with the third-row seat will get rear seats that move fore-and-aft electrically and can be moved or folded with a control panel in the cargo area. The interior is decidedly upscale, from the quality of materials to the design and execution. The traditional dial gauges have been replaced with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can display a map between the speedometer and tachometer. The center console has a newly designed transmission selector and iDrive controller in addition to the start/stop button and the buttons to activate the air suspension settings and drive modes. The test car had the optional glass shift knob and start/stop button that looked like crystal. A large screen is centered above the console for use with the iDrive controller. The convenience package includes a fourzone climate control and hands-free operation of the twosection tailgate. Outside, a larger version of BMW’s twin-kidney grille dominates the new design while sculpting on the hood, flanks, and tailgate give the vehicle a sporty yet rugged appearance. Tight panel gaps, large headlights, and luxurious interior speak to the vehicle’s premium status. The real test of the new model is the way it drives. There are two engine choices, both of which are turbocharged: a 3.0-liter six-cylinder with 335 horsepower and a 4.4-liter V-8 with 456 horsepower. The V-8 has its turbocharger mounted

in the V between the banks of cylinders. The test vehicle was equipped with the free-revving sixcylinder that is paired with an eight-speed automatic. The inline six is inherently smooth and free from vibration. Its twin-scroll turbo delivers 330 pound-feet of peak torque between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm, and that means throttle response is almost immediate. Stepping away from a traffic light, merging on the freeway, or passing on a two-lane road are a breeze, because the turbo delivers its extra punch without pause. BMW says the six-cylinder can accelerate to 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds. The V-8 hits 60 in 4.6 seconds. Both models have tow ratings of 6,603 pounds or 7,209 pounds with the factory hitch. The eight-speed automatic transmission has a wider ratio spread and new electronic controls to improve efficiency. In manual mode, the driver can control it with the shift lever or paddles on the steering wheel. A key component of a sports-activity vehicle is an allwheel drive system that maximizes traction, agility, and directional stability in a wide variety of conditions. BMW’s new xDrive system is able to split torque precisely between the front and rear wheels. Full power can be directed to the rear wheels for greater efficiency. The rear-drive bias enhances responsiveness for sporty driving by limiting the rotational speeds of the inside and outside rear wheels in a corner. The electronically controlled rear differential can send power to the one rear wheel with the most traction

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 23

Spice up e H idays! TWO WORDS: BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS we’re pouring bottomless bubbles for $9 every saturday & sunday, with purchase of an entrée. there is no better way to start your weekend!

LARGE GROUPS & PRIVATE PARTIES book a private party for you &your family, company, or friends this holiday season. we can accomodate groups of all sizes.

ZOCALO MEXICAN RESTAURANT AND TEQUILIERIA IS A LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT ON THE COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA OFFERING FRESH, CONTEMPORARY MEXICAN CUISINE AND KANSAS CITY’S MOST EXTENSIVE SELECTION OF TEQUILA AND MEZCAL. OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK, WEEKDAY HAPPY HOUR & WEEKEND BRUNCH!

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AUTOMOTIVE and that improves grip on loose ground or slippery surfaces. And it all happens seamlessly. The X5’s new chassis has a doublewishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle that gives excellent comfort, largely because of the electronically controlled shock absorbers and air suspension. In Sport mode, the vehicle’s ride height lowers by 0.8 inches. For offroad use, the vehicle can be raised up to 1.6 inches. The ride was surprisingly compliant even in Sport and Sport Plus mode. For the first time, BMW offers an offroad package that includes underbody protection, air suspension, and an electronic rear differential lock. There are driving modes for sand, rock, gravel, and snow. The X5 has a number of driving assistance features. The lane keeping function is quite sensitive and will quickly pull the vehicle back into its lane if you stray inadvertently. On the highway, the self-driving mode seemed a bit jerky as the system frequently tugged the steering wheel to keep it centered in the lane. Other useful functions include blind spot detection, lane departure warning, rear collision warning, frontal collision warning, cross traffic rear alert, and adaptive cruise control. A traffic-jam assist function will be available about the end of this year. The Emergency Stop Assistant, which is a component of the Driving Assistant Professional package, is intended to be used in situations where the driver is suddenly incapacitated because of a medical emergency. It is activated by pulling the electric parking brake switch, at which time “the vehicle will come to a stop in the current lane, at the edge of the road or the hard shoulder,” according to BMW. The vehicle will then automatically notify BMW’s call center.

Tom Strongman has a degree in photojournalism from the University of Missouri and was formerly the director of photography and then the automotive editor of The Kansas City Star. Tom, a member of the Missouri Press Association Photojournalism Hall of Fame, has written about and photographed cars for more than three decades.

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 25

Sports Car Together. The Cayenne affords sports car lovers greater freedoms in a breath-taking style. The racetrack turned road of life. The race car driver turned adventurer, family person and leisure all-rounder. The individual sports contestant turned team player. Someone who does not experience performance, versatility and exclusivity on their own, but shares them with others. That’s when sports car fascination becomes a genuine community experience. Or, to put it another way: team sport is our passion.

The new 2019 Cayenne

Porsche Kansas City 9400 West 65th Street Merriam KS 66203 (913) 677-3300 www.aristocrat.porschedealer.com

T H E O N LY H O M E T H A T M A T T E R S I S Y O U R S .

JODIE BRETHOUR Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Experienced Professional, Fearless Negotiator, ReeceNichol’s President’s Circle Award Winner.

Jodie Brethour Buyer’s Agent, Listing Agent, Experienced Professional, Fearless Negotiator, ReeceNichols President’s Circle Award Winner

I was born and raised in the Midwest and have lived in the Kansas City area since 1991, which allows me to know the area extremely well. I have been helping clients sell or find thei perfect home since I began in real estate in March of 2004.

My background in sales and customer service helped create a successful formula for buying and selling real estate. By creating strong interpersonal relationships, I enjoy long-lasting personal bonds with my clients. I fight hard for the people I work for and am committed to catering to their individua needs. I want to make your home selling or homebuying experience a smooth, enjoyable process.

I am hardworking, determined, energetic and straightforward I believe a direct approach is the only way to conduct business

Whether you’re buying your first home or your last, I can help I will listen to your needs and offer advice, and together, we will create a plan to effectively and efficiently accomplish you goals and objectives.

I am an experienced professional who devotes unlimited resources and time to make sure my clients are happy. I am easily accessible and available day or night. Because no two clients are the same, I provide personal attention to their individual needs. My knowledge of the area and the marketplace as well as outstanding customer service have given my clients the trust to refer their family and friends.

O V E R 1 3 Y E A R S 2016 R Ewinner A LJodieEBrethour S TAT E E X P E R I E N C E OVER $16 MILLION IN SALES AND 48 HOMES SO LD IN 2016 I work relentlessly to get the most for my clients. Together, we R E E C E A N D N I C H O L S C H A I R M A N S C I R C L E A WcanAdevelop R D a2plan 0 to1 suit 6 your specific real estate needs. I am

a firm negotiator who will not be intimidated. I want what you want!

11601 Granada | Leawood, KS 66211 Phone: 913-908-3922

My passion for this city and for this market is unparalleled Kansas City offers many attractive and unique areas to live For that reason, I buy and sell homes all over the metro area to ensure that my clients find a neighborhood that is best fo them. I love the area and am proud to call Kansas City my home Once you work with me, you will see firsthand the dedication provide to my clients and proof that you have made a lifelong real estate connection. Contact me, and you will experience an agent who puts your needs first.

FASHION photos KENNY JOHNSON | styling AMANI SKALACKI

Fashion Takes Center Stage.

Gown, Gown Gallery Jewelry, Mazzarese

Pants, Halls Poncho, Alaskan Fur

Gown, Gown Gallery Jewelry, Mazzarese WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 31

ABOUT THE FOLLY THEATER Opened in 1900, the Folly Theater is a superbly conceived performing arts venue offering the artist and the patron remarkable acoustics and

intimate

performance

experience. Designed by renowned architect Louis Singleton Curtiss, the Folly has hosted some of the world’s such

most

acclaimed

Itzhak

Perlman,

artists, Dave

Brubeck, Allen Toussaint, Esperanza Spalding, and Renée Fleming, to name just a few. The theater has, this year, undergone a $2.5-million renovation of the lobby, patron spaces, and HVAC system, which will only enhance the Folly experience as it looks forward to the future as the place where diverse communities come together to experience worldclass performances in Kansas City’s most historic theater.

Attire, Halls Jewelry, Mazzarese Sunglasses, Eye Style Optics

Attire, Halls Jewelry, Mazzarese 34 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

Gown, Halls Bag, Halls Jewelry, Mazzarese

Attire, Halls Jewelry, Mazzarese

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 37

THE NEW ALL-ELECTRICK JAGUAR I-PACE

STAND OUT EVERYWHERE EXCEPT THE GAS STATION

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NONPROFIT by KELSEY CIPOLLA | photos courtesy of WAYSIDE WAIFS

A Home for the Holidays. For most, the holidays mean heading home to celebrate with loved ones — but some furry members of our community aren’t so lucky. Throughout the metro, many dogs, cats, and other animals will be waiting to meet their future families in shelters. Winter can be a little slower for pet adoptions, says Tori Fugate, KC Pet Project’s director of marketing and communications, but the shelter constantly engages with the community through adoption specials and events. A public-private partnership, the organization is a nonprofit that has served as Kansas City, Missouri’s shelter since 2011, taking in strays as well as surrendered animals throughout the city. KC Pet Project now cares for 10,000 animals each year. “We took over this shelter that had a long history of euthanizing animals, and the city wanted something different,” Fugate says. “We knew we could do better and at least try to save more lives, and since 2011 we have been saving over 90 percent of the animals that have come into the shelter.”

Last year, the shelter adopted out more than 6,700 animals and reunited more than 1,200 pets and owners. And KC Pet Project’s success isn’t just good news for Kansas City animals — it’s become an example and resource for other organizations around the country. “So many other shelters in bigger cities have reached out to us asking how we’ve done it, and they are wanting to use the same model in their cities to save lives,” Fugate explains.

RESCUES UNLEASHED A passion for helping animals led Danielle Reno to found another area shelter, Unleashed Pet Rescue, in 2011. Today, Unleashed gets about 100 animals in each week, housing them in the shelter or placing them with foster families. Its foster program is extensive, with 500 animals currently being cared for, says Rebecca Taylor, Unleashed’s social media and public relations director. Unleashed also brings in animals from other regional shelters that are struggling to find homes and rescues

WINTER WINTER 2018 2018 || TODAY TODAY KANSAS KANSAS CITY CITY || 39 39

NONPROFIT THE ULTIMATE GIFT OF A PET

’Tis the season ... for giving pets as presents. Before you adopt this holiday season, the experts suggest: • Picking a pet as a family. “If children are coming in and this is going to be their potential first pet, it’s really great for them to also be involved in the process. They feel that investment of picking out the pet and making it their own,” Fugate says. “They’re going to want to help care for it.” Bringing kids with you to the shelter instead of surprising them with a pet also ensures that you’re bringing home an animal that is friendly toward kids, something that can be hard to test for in the shelter. animals from abuse and neglect. “Really, there isn’t a place that doesn’t need help with rescue — rural areas, cities, it’s just kind of nonstop,” Taylor says. “We don’t sleep very much in rescue. We work a lot and we’re all very passionate and dedicated, so we’re lucky to have so many supportive people around us that want to help.” The shelter is entirely funded by donations, which often come in through Facebook, where Taylor shares the heart-wrenching plights of pets in Unleashed’s care, as well as lighter fare, like the sweet bonds between pets and their foster families. In addition to raising money, it helps people get to know the kinds of animals that are in shelters. “A lot of rescue animals aren’t “broken,” they’re people’s dogs that have been trained, puppies that need help, kittens that need help,” she says. Unleashed pays special attention to “bully breeds,” a category that often makes up a significant portion of shelters’ populations because of misconceptions about the animals. Taylor says the shelter likes to educate the community about what kinds of dogs they really are — sweet, smart, and adaptable.

EDUCATING FUTURE PET OWNERS For Wayside Waifs, educating people about animals is a vital part of the mission, says Casey Waugh, the shelter’s communications and annual giving manager. “We here at Wayside really see that part of the reason there is a stigma with different animals, whether they’re not accepted in homes, whether they’re treated poorly, whether people just don’t know how to interact [with them], is because of how people have been raised,” she explains.

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• Considering your lifestyle. Part of the role of a shelter’s staff is to help you find the right animal for the way you live, Taylor says. Think about how often you’re home, your activity level, and what you want in a pet versus what’s realistically the best fit. • Taking your time. It’s okay to make multiple visits to animals at a shelter, Taylor says. You might need to spend time with several animals to find your new furry friend, or you might know instantly. Based on her experience, she says “animals pick their families, and you just have to pay attention.”

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The shelter’s education programs focus on kids. One program allows them to read to shelter animals so they can build confidence in their skills, and groups of kids from schools and organizations will often come in to tour the shelter and participate in a volunteer project. Wayside Waifs also created the “No More Bullying” program, which puts humane educators, both human and canine, in third-grade through fifth-grade classrooms. The curriculum teaches students that animals have feelings, too, and emphasizes the value of showing kindness and compassion to everyone. One of the humane education animals is Patrick, who came to Wayside with a problem in one of his legs that required amputation. “He’s got a smile that lights up the room, and kids just love him,” Waugh says. “It’s great to have him come in because we can talk about ‘he has three legs; he’s different from every other dog, but that doesn’t make him different inside.’” Learning about Patrick allows kids who might be going through their own struggles or feeling different understand they’re not alone, she says. It’s one of the many ways shelters help not just animals, but whole communities. “A lot of times, people think we’re in rescue just because we love animals,” Taylor says. “Of course we love animals, but we want to people to get joy and happiness from animals — so we want to help people too. That’s what this is all about.”

42 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

Kelsey Cipolla is a local writer, editor, and social media specialist. Kelsey has covered everything from the Kansas City culinary scene to home design, health, fitness trends, hidden gems, and nonprofit in the Kansas City community.

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Where Style is the Standard. Emily and Matt Baldwin founded Standard Style in Town Center in 2003, but they were partners well before that. Their commitment to each other, their family, the brand, and Kansas City continues to grow. “We met at summer sports camp,” says Emily Baldwin of her husband and business partner, Matt. “I had graduated from KU and was in transition to locating to the west coast. Matt was teaching snowboarding in Breckenridge. We met through friends and hit it off.” The pair had a lot in common including mutual friends and creative spirits, but it was not an immediate romance. “We would creatively brainstorm as friends,” says Matt. “We have always fed off each other’s energy. We still do. We became best friends.” After a few months, the pair realized that they had feelings for one another. Plans for the future were not far behind. “I think we both instinctively knew that we would have a future together,” says Emily. “We have always been partners in a certain sense. We have literally

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PHOTO BY RYAN STRONG

PROFILE by PATRICIA O'DELL | photos courtesy of BALDWIN

Matt & Emily Baldwin

worked together since we met, whether we were waiting tables or later at our own company.” Matt and Emily lived in Los Angeles while he attended fashion school. They were watching men’s and women’s retail beginning to change. While they had no plans to leave Los Angeles, a call from a family friend shifted their thinking. “We hadn’t really been thinking retail or Kansas City,” says Matt. “But we were intrigued.” The couple began researching the market and real estate options. While they felt a hesitant tone around what they were thinking, they were driven and committed. They had witnessed the emerging trend of women’s and men’s boutiques. They had seen versions of similar concepts in other markets. The couple researched demographics, convenience, and opportunity and felt Kansas City was ripe for a new creative concept. While they were one of the first men’s and women’s contemporary boutiques in Kansas City, they were not scared. “We knew if we could serve people

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 45

PROFILE passionately, we could introduce new brands, create individual looks at a variety of price points – for a variety of ages – that we could truly dress families. That’s been the beauty of Kansas City. They have supported us since day one,” says Emily. The Baldwins are thrilled and grateful that the retail locations in Town Center and the Country Club Plaza have customers who are grandparents, parents, and children from the same families who are all finding pieces that fit their lifestyle at every stage. Emily believes that their buying philosophy is central to their staying power. “Since we opened, one of my buying styles has been to have timeless, foundational pieces, but to push “fashion forward” pieces to keep trends evolving. This, along with introducing emerging brands, allows people to create their individual looks.” The couple launched Baldwin in 2008. Matt could see that there was something missing in denim. He did extensive research, working with customers in the shop — both men and women — to identify what the market needed. While the challenging economy was putting existing brands to the test, he felt their commitment to fit, quality, and design could fill a niche. “We sold 28 pairs the first day,” says Matt. The brand continued to grow and attract attention. Being a finalist for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, which was created by Vogue editor Anna Wintour to support emerging designers, was another step in building a global brand. “We were so honored to be chosen for the award process,” says Matt. “It was very cool to see our team in

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Kansas City and Los Angeles pull together and create and participate in the different challenges.” Matt and Emily agree that it was a remarkable learning experience. “We loved meeting so many new people,” says Emily. “It really pushed us to evolve the women’s business. We loved having the opportunity to share that with the Kansas City community. As the brand grows, it continues to change. Baldwin recently announced that a larger piece of the business will shift to Los Angeles, but that does not change Emily and Matt’s commitment to Kansas City or the brand’s presence here. “Since the inception, Baldwin has always had Kansas City and LA offices,” says Matt. “We have always produced our denim in downtown Los Angeles. I spend about a week a month there, while my home base is Kansas City.” In March, the Baldwins relocated their LA location closer to the downtown arts district and relocated the creative and communications teams there to work directly with production and sales. But finance, operations, buying, planning, distribution and their board remains in Kansas City. “Kansas City will always be home,” says Emily. “We are raising three kids here and it is truly such a special place. It’s been incredible to watch the city grow over the last 15 years. We love seeing the entrepreneurial spirt, the growth of small businesses, and the development of our favorite local areas.” “This community – its charity and creativity – is ingrained in us,” says Matt. “We travel frequently, but we love coming back to Kansas City every time.”

Patricia O’Dell started the lifestyle blog “Mrs. Blandings” in 2007. Her curiosity led her to write about designers, artists, business owners, and industry leaders. She’s been published in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Chicago Tribune, Flower magazine, Kansas City Spaces, and The Kansas City Star, as well as archdigest.com and elledecor.

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"Car brands like Mercedes are understood to be high-quality design, performance, and construction. The same goes with furniture brands like Dunbar, Knoll, and Herman Miller." 50 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

INTERIOR DESIGN by STACY DOWNS | photos by ANNA PETROW

Midcentury Modernism Is Still Where It’s At. When Rod Parks opened the doors of his furniture store, Retro Inferno, in 1998, midcentury modernism wasn’t quite a thing – at least not in Kansas City. Fast-forward 20 years, and this style is ubiquitous. Everywhere. Re-issued, reproduced, and downright copied. “It resonates with people, so its popularity keeps increasing. I know I’m obsessed,” Parks says. And he has the floors of furniture to prove it. The showroom at Retro Inferno looks more art museum than furniture store. Sculptural chairs in each color of the rainbow and swooping sectional sofas punctuated by groovy light fixtures are exhibited in this two-story space in Kansas City’s Crossroads Arts District. “If you want to find the good stuff, like I do, you have to always be on the lookout for it,” Parks says. “The good woods are getting more rare, the teak and walnut.” Parks’ current clientele is half New York interior designers, 25-percent interior designers from elsewhere, and the rest is from foot traffic in Kansas City’s ever-evolving, always-improving urban core. Midcentury modernism was born after World War II. Design reflected post-battle exuberance and embodied hope. Parks grew up in that era. The optimism expressed on the homefront – from the automobile parked in the garage to the sofa in the living room – is what appealed to him. “I often use car analogies in my store,” Parks says. “People understand that with cars; the name makes a difference. The same with the furniture.” For example, car brands like Mercedes are understood to be high-quality design, performance, and construction. The same goes with furniture brands like Dunbar, Knoll, and Herman Miller.

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Rod Parks “At a glance, lesser-quality products can serve similar functions but will lack some of those performance aspects, quality of construction, and durability,” Park explains. “Even resale value. “And when you look at something that is well designed, you don’t have to know anything about design for it to connect with you, just that something about it looks good.”

52 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

Stacy Downs writes about all things design and is a partner at MAD Creative, a branding and communications firm in Kansas City.

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT by JENNIFER LAPKA | photos by MATT NICHOLS

A New Bronze Age. Legacies are marked by stories written and told, by plaques and landmarks, others, still, by painting and bronze portraiture. About the latter, capturing the human form in bronze dates back to over 4,500 years ago in modern-day Pakistan. The oldest-known specimen is a small female statuette, the “Indus Dancing Girl,” as she is named by the New Delhi National Museum that cares for her. Her existence demonstrates civilization’s societal respect for dance as a means of entertainment. From then, bronze works grew in scale, with the ancient Greeks receiving credit for engineering the process of hollow lost-wax casting to make large, free-standing bronze statues. Greeks and then the Romans, too, cast thousands of images of gods and heroes, victorious athletes, statesmen,

54 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

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and philosophers that filled temples and sanctuaries and stood in the public areas of major cities. Their innovations continue to influence monumental bronze statuary around the world today. In Kansas City, bronze sculptors like Tom Corbin and E.S. Schubert are carrying on this art form and are known around the country for their work. I recently visited the E.S. Schubert Studio, which is tucked amongst fashion and art entities standing side-by-side on the 100th block of Southwest Boulevard, in the heart of the Crossroads Arts District. As you enter the space, you see segments of human faces – mouths, ears, eyes, and noses, all in unexpected colors. Continue descending the studio stairs, and you see serious busts, a pantograph, and pieces of clay and plastic foam that will eventually become public artworks that are – more often than not – honoring their subjects’ legacies.

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Schubert is a Kansas City native who, as a high school student at Shawnee Mission East, took a silversmithing course under the tutelage of Chuck Crawford. “I was not a wunderkind when it came down to it, but for the first time – other than my parents – someone took the time to show me there is a right way and wrong way to do things.” Thereafter, Spencer received a scholarship to attend KU where he switched his focus to sculpture. It was there and then that he discovered the realistic figure was a form he could spend the rest of his life exploring. During our conversation, I was struck by Spencer’s concept of talent vs. hard work, and his reverence and dedication to the latter. “I cannot control how much talent I have, but hard work is 100 percent within my sphere of influence. The only way to make a lump of clay look like a person is to spend hours doing so.” Portrait busts, finished

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT and in-progress, line his space. As I walked around to get a closer look at each, their realism was striking. I felt like their eyes actually peered back at me, and I wanted to touch their faces. The classicalism and strength of the material was easily evident, as well. It is no wonder those in charge of memorializing the legacy of leaders choose bronze as a medium and artists like Spencer who takes so much care to capture the characteristics of their subjects. Spencer’s studio is busier than ever delivering commissions all over the country. He is typically completing six to seven projects per year, with a monumental piece taking a year from start to finish and his portrait busts taking eight months. Look for one of his latest local works, a bicycling youth, which was installed in Prairie Village at 71st and Mission this fall, and visit his website, esschubert.com, for more information.

Jennifer Lapka is involved in the Kansas City arts community and has been a promoter of the rebirth of the garment industry. She is also the executive director of Rightfully Sewn, an organization that trains at-risk women as seamstresses to the local garment industry.

58 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

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HEALTH by DR. LINDA MOORE

What If Life Had a Backspace Key? Thoughtful and healthy framing of the thoughts and ideas that come out of the “do over” wish is important. It’s also important to record the thoughts that surface.

What if life had a backspace key is a “do over” question. It’s the kind of question that pops into the foreground of your mind on a lazy weekend, vacationing or traveling, or just staring out a window – day dreaming. And if you do something much more intentional for relaxation, reflection and self-exploration – for example, a meditation retreat (which I highly recommend) – these “do over” questions can loom heavily. When the reflection urge does surface, the question is excellent if accompanied by a healthy state of mind. It’s not intended as a way to “beat yourself up” or “wallow in regret.” However, it’s important to acknowledge that is exactly the way such questions most commonly get raised. The questions

typically surface when facing an important life crossroad or “fork” in the road – around birthdays or anniversaries, at a time of significant loss or death, when facing a looming and challenging decision, after or perhaps facing a hard conversation or an argument with someone important to you, or when feeling mildly depressed or anxious. Acknowledging the mind’s tendency to sometimes head in an even slightly negative, self-deprecating direction, it’s important to know that you can turn it around and create a time of reflection that actually leads out of regretful, negative or self-defeating thinking and helps with clear decisions and healthy future directions. Thoughtful and healthy framing of the thoughts and

WINTER 2018 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | 61

HEALTH

We simply have a tendency to believe what we think! And without a deep breath and thoughtful examination, a distortion can head us in the wrong direction.

ideas that come out of the “do over” wish is important. It’s also important to record the thoughts that surface. The emphasis on writing is to get the thoughts out of your head, where, if not channeled in a healthy direction, can create, quite rapidly, distressing feelings. Thoughts can quickly start to feel like reality, distorting good decision-making. Our worst, most irrational or distorted thoughts can quickly grow to feel like reality and head us in the wrong direction. We simply have a tendency to believe what we think! And without a deep breath and thoughtful examination, a distortion can head us in the wrong direction. (Note: if the concept of thought distortion raises questions for you, see my blogs on the topic for more detailed information.) If you feel ready to explore some structure that gets you moving in a productive, problem-solving direction, use these ideas in sidebar on following page to get started.

62 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

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subsidiaries. Barron’s has transitioned the name of the 2016 inaugural award of Top Independent Advisory Firms to the Top RIA Firms. Each year since inception, Barron’s has increased the number of firms included in the rankings from 20 (2016) to 30 (2017) to 40 firms (2018). Barron’s publishes these Barron’s the a2018 #3 Top 40 RIA Firms ranking to Mariner, LLC were d/b/aused Mariner Wealth Advisors on to data compiled for Mariner Wealth listsawarded based upon number of criteria and the firms’ filings with the SEC to cross-check the databased provided Barron’s. The listing includes the Advisors and the 2017 andemployees, 2016 #1 rankings tooffices Mariner Holdings based upon data is compiled for Mariner Holdings’ registered investment adviser firms’ numbers of #2 clients, advisors, and state locations. The award not indicative of future performance and there is no guarantee of subsidiaries. Barron’s has transitioned the name the 2016advisor inaugural award of Top Independent Advisory future investment success. Registration of an of investment does not imply a certain level of training or Firms skill. to the Top RIA Firms. Each year since

inception, Barron’s has increased the number of firms included in the rankings from 20 (2016) to 30 (2017) to 40 firms (2018). Barron’s publishes these Mariner, LLC dba Mariner Wealth Advisors (“MWA”), is an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply a lists based upon number of criteria andisthe firms’ filings with SECnotice were used to cross-check the data provided to investment Barron’s. The listingbyincludes certain levelaof skill or training. MWA in compliance with thethe current filing requirements imposed upon registered advisers those the firms’ numbers of clients, advisors, offices and state locations. The award is not of future there is no guarantee of states in which MWA employees, maintains clients. For additional information about MWA, including feesindicative and services, pleaseperformance contact MWA and or refer to the Investment future Adviser investment success. Registration of an investment advisor doesread notthe imply a certain level ofcarefully training before or skill.you invest or send money. Public Disclosure website (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). Please disclosure statement Mariner, LLC dba Mariner Wealth Advisors (“MWA”), is an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. MWA is in compliance with the current notice filing requirements imposed upon registered investment advisers by those states in which MWA maintains clients. For additional information about MWA, including fees and services, please contact MWA or refer to the Investment

REFLECTION PROCESS Make a list of the major crossroads in your life. Go as far back in history as you are comfortable exploring. Examples might be an early move that you made with family that had a significant impact on you; or moving away from home to go to college or start a first job; adventuresome travel; or joining the military. As you reflect, just follow the crossroads and turning points you recall with these details: 1) Identify the year and then 2) the choice/decision made. For example: I graduated and moved to ____ to take a job as a ____. The OPTIONS I had at that time were: ____. 3) The WAY I FEEL about the decision is ____. OR... 1) I met the love of my life and ____. 2) The choices I faced were ____and 3) the way I FEEL about the decision is ____. Slowly take yourself forward, change by change, or through turning points you see and recall. Certainly note emerging patterns and any regrets or truly challenging decisions you faced. It’s also important to see if you felt “in charge” of your choices and decisions, or whether you felt you “had no choice” or that perhaps someone else made the decision and you were not in a position to challenge it … or simply felt you couldn’t.

64 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

Some typical things individuals share with me: “I didn’t know what else to do.” “I thought it was the best thing at the time.” ”I regretted it within days” (or weeks or months). “It was the very best choice I’ve ever made.” “It shaped my future and I’m grateful.” “I want and need to learn from my mistakes.” “I want to reinforce the way I made such a good decision and keep it up.” “I want to learn how to reflect more carefully on next steps.” There are no right or wrong responses, unless you experience giving yourself a hard time. Then just reflect on what directed, perhaps pushed, you or what you failed to thoroughly think through. Finally, identify ways to correct the thinking, the decision making, especially if facing something similar in a current decision or choice. And see if your reflections provide insight for what you can do to keep yourself on a far better, healthier track. We obviously can’t change the past; however, we can learn what we need to learn to get handles on what is right in front of us now, and most important, where we want to head next. A good final reflection is: Is this where I was going? And if you have questions about this process, let me know. A footnote: I found the question “What if life had a backspace key” in a New York Times article by Frank Bruni. It had nothing to do with psychology, but hats off to Bruni for a stimulating turn of phrase.

Dr. Linda Moore has been in practice in the Kansas City area for over 25 years and is a published author on personal and family issues.

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CALENDAR WINTER 2018 KANSAS CITY BALLET

UNION STATION

February 15-24

Current–January 6 Dinosaurs Revealed, Journey Across America

Lady of the Camellias Muriel Kauffman Theatre Kauffman Center

LYRIC OPERA March 16, 20, 22, 24 Cosi Fan Tutte, “Love is Never a Sure Thing” Muriel Kauffman Theater Kauffman Center FOLLY THEATER December 15

Central Standard Presents Holiday Harmonies Men’s A Cappella Ensemble

January 18

The Yellowjackets | Folly Jazz Series

February 15

Kandace Springs, Vocalist | Folly Jazz Series

February 16

Jonathan Bliss No Categories

February 27

I’m With Her | Knuckleheads Presentation

March 9

Kurt Elling Quintet | Folly Jazz Series

HARRIMAN-JEWELL SERIES

KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY

December 13 Joyce DiDonato and Yannick Nezet-Sequin Mezzo-Soprano and Pianist in Recital Folly Theater

It’s a Wonderful Life in Concert Helzberg Hall

January 24 March 2

“Swan Lake,” Danced by Russian National Ballet Muriel Kauffman Theatre | Kauffman Center Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Jeremy Denk, Pianist | Folly Theater

January 3-6

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert | Helzberg Hall

March 16

Emanuel Ax, Pianist in Recital Folly Theater

January 11-13

Russian Romantics: Tchaikovsky and Glazunov | Helzberg Hall

January 16

Side by Side with Youth Symphony of Kansas City | Helzberg Hall

March 21

San Francisco Symphony Michael Tilson Thomas, Conductor Helzberg Hall | Kauffman Center

January 17

Classics Uncorked: Grammy Greats Helzberg Hall

December 18

Stile Antico, At the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

January 18-20

An Evening with Lyle Lovett and the Kansas City Symphony Lyle Lovett and His Small Band Helzberg Hall

January 25

The Prazak and Zeminsky Quartets Folly Theater

February 16

Jonathan Bliss | Folly Theater

January 31-Feb 3

Star Wars Episode IV–A New Hope

March 10

Alexander Melnikov | Folly Theater

February 8-10

Dvorak’s “New World,” Gershwin and Pat Metheny

February 12

I Love You Verdi Much (Free Concert) Symphony’s Chamber Music Concert

February 14-16

Casablanca in Concert

December 14-18

Christmas Festival | Helzberg Hall

December 21, 22

February 17 “Peter and Wolf,” Live! (Family Series Concert) February 22, 23 The Music of Michael Jackson March 5

Soak up the Baroque (Free Concert) Symphony’s Happy Hour Concert

March 8-10

Mendelssohn’s “Scottish” and Barber’s Piano Concerto Alessio Bax, Piano

66 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC

CARLSEN CENTER JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE January 18

Broadway Princess Party

January 20

Winterlude Eddie Moore and Pamela Baskin-Watson

February 2

Lisa Loeb

February 10

“We Shall Overcome,” Featuring Damien Sneed, A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

February 16

“Steel Magnolias” | LA Theatre Works

February 22

Seraphic Fire with the American Brass Quintet

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NATIONAL WORLD WAR I MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL Current-Jan. 13 War Around Us: Soldier Artist Impressions Current-March 10 Crucible Life and Death Individuals' stories, not battles

January 15-20

The Sound of Music Muriel Kauffman Theatre | Kauffman Center

February 5-10

Evita Muriel Kauffman Theatre | Kauffman Center

March 12-17

Anastasia | Music Hall

NELSON-ATKINS MUSEUM Current-March 10

Napoleon: Power and Splendor

Current-April 7

Structured Vision: Photography

Current-January 13

The Human Body: Prints

PHOTO BY TOM STRONGMAN

Current-January 20 Wendell Castle: Shifting Vocabularies

CARLSEN CENTER JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Current-March 22

Regency Fashion in Miniature: Portrait Miniatures

Current-March 17

From Farm to Table: Works on Paper

Current-January 6

Rediscovering Hieronymus Bosch and Albrecht Bouts

Current-July 28

Contemporary Japanese Ceramics

Current-May 5

Solitary: Alienation in Modern Life

Jan. 9- June 16

15th-17th Century Italian and Spanish Textiles Discriminating Thieves: Nazi-Looted Art and Restitution

February 24

Winterlude: Hot Club KC

Jan. 26- 2020

February 28

Peg + Cat – Live, PBS Kids

THE KEMPER MUSEUM FOR CONTEMPORARY ART

March 2

Youth Symphony of Kansas City, Drew Petersen, Pianist 60th Anniversary Gala

Current-Jan. 6

Angela Dufresne: Making a Scene

March 8

Niyaz “The Fourth Light Project”

Current-Feb. 17

Flaw(less); Kemper Teen Arts Council Curated Exhibition

March 10

Sir James Galway, Flute

Current-July 28

Paul Henry Ramirez: Sweet On

Current- Sept. 15

Deconstructing Macus Jansen: Pioneer of Urban Landscape Painting

KANSAS CITY REPERTORY THEATRE Jan. 19-Feb. 10

“Indecent,” Written by Paula Vogel Co-Presentation with Arena Stage and Baltimore Center Stage

Feb. 22- March 17

“School Girls”; or, “The African Mean Girls” Play Written by Jocelyn Bioh

March 22-April 14

Pride and Prejudice, based on a novel by Jane Austen Written by Kate Hamill

UNICORN THEATRE

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS December 13

Los Angeles Chargers | Arrowhead Stadium

December 23

Seattle Seahawks | At Seattle

December 30

Oakland Raiders | Arrowhead Stadium

January 5-6

AFC Wild Card Rounds

January 12-13

AFC Divisional Rounds

January 20

AFC Championship Game Super Bowl LIII Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA

’Til December 30 Jan. 23-Feb. 17

“The Wolves, A Pack of Warriors” By Sarah Delappe “Nomad Motel Hidden Homelessness & Hope” By Carla Ching

February 3

March 6-31

“The Humans, Heart, Hilarity, and Horror” By Stephen Karam

January 25-26

Fanfest: Bartle Hall Convention Center

February 14 (approx.) Pitchers and Catchers Report to Spring Training

THEATRE LEAGUE December 26-30

KANSAS CITY ROYALS

“The Book of Mormon” | Music Hall

68 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | WINTER 2018

February 23

First Spring Training Game: Texas Rangers

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