IN Kansas City December 2021 by KC Media

Kansas City's Coziest Cuisine

A HOLIDAYREADY BROOKSIDE COLONIAL

Celebrate the Season! THE MIRACLE OF INNOCENCE PROJECT JEWELRY THAT SPARKLES FOR THE HOLIDAYS DECEMBER 2021 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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SOLD

EXPECT BETTER It’s the beautiful, little moments in life that give us hope for the future. At Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate Kansas City Homes, we remain focused on what matters most: helping you live your best life. When it’s time to make your dreams come true, we’ll be here for you.

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MAKE THE BROOKSIDE SHOPS YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS. LOCAL SHOPS. PERSONAL SERVICE.

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01. LEOPOLD GALLERY Since 1991. 30 years of art innovation. leopoldgallery.com 02. BROOKSIDE TOY BROOKSIDE & SCIENCE Great selection,

friendly service and free gift wrap in store and online. brooksidetoyandscience.com 03. LADY BYE With a modern, east coast style. ladybyekc.com 04. THE BROOKSIDE DENTIST Patient-centered and compassionate for over 85 years. thebrooksidedentist.com 05. BROOKSIDER SPORTS BAR & GRILL Drink, eat, watch your favorite team and unwind in the heart of Brookside! brooksider.com 06. WORLD’S WINDOW “Tree of Kindness”

sparkles for the holidays. Gifts. Clothing. Accessories. Folk Art. Festive Gift Wrap. worldswindowkc.store 07. A STORE NAMED STUFF The artistic lifestyle store. Creative and unexpected gifts and home goods. astorenamedstuff.com 08. COCO With a casual, west coast vibe. cocobrookside.com 09. THE CORNER CANDLESHOP Your Brookside neighborhood candlemaker for almost two decades. thecornercandleshop.com

forever,

BROOKSIDE

Clairvaux_INKansasCity_FullPage_November21_ForPrint.pdf

CMY

10/13/21

5:39 PM

Introducing Riedel Winewings in KC

h o m e

Happy Holidays

Portf olio

K i t c h e n

215 W. Pershing Road Kansas City § Missouri § 64108 816.363.5300

May Your Home Be Beautiful & Bright

Happy HappyHolidays Holidays

May Your HomeBeBeBeautiful Beautiful&&Bright Bright May Your Home

Portfolio Portfolio n K i tK ci th ce h n e &

& h o hm oe m e

215Pershing W. Pershing 215 W. RoadRoad Kansas City § Missouri § 64108 Kansas City § Missouri § 64108 816.363.5300 816.363.5300

w wwww. pwo. rptofrotlfiool-ihoo- hmoem. ceo. cmo m

Extraordinary Care for Her Heart We’re moving women’s care forward in Kansas City, so you can feel whole for your whole life. With some of the world’s brightest minds, we’re providing access to leading-edge cardiac treatments and surgeries, including transaortic valve replacement (TAVR), heartrhythm restoration and comprehensive rehab plans. It’s a brand new way to get to the heart of women’s health.

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Celebrate more time at home.

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Contents DECEMBER 2021 76

80 86 Features 68

IN CONVERSATION WITH JIM NANTZ The sportscaster talks about his love of Kansas City and the story behind his wine label, The Calling.

DELISH DISHES TO WARM UP COLD WINTER NIGHTS Plunging temperatures have us craving rich, comforting fare. These cozy favorites from around Kansas City are sure to warm you up, inside and out.

Departments

SINCERELY YOURS, DARRYL BURTON Of the 600 letters Darryl Burton wrote from jail, one would free him from his wrongful murder sentence. Another would free his soul.

‘TIS THE SEASON TO DAZZLE From subtle sparkle to all-out glitz, great gifts for your special someone.

WE’LL HAVE A BLUE CHRISTMAS A Brookside home is transformed for the holiday.

On the cover

Holiday time is entertaining time, and Lorraine and Leigh Elmore’s dining room is party-ready. Photo by Aaron Leimkuehler.

DECEMBER 2021

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS IN KC

ENTERTAINING IN KC

OUR MAN IN KC

ARTS & CULTURE IN KC

BEHIND THE MUSIC IN KC

LOOK IN KC

LIVING IN KC

FLAVOR IN KC

112

MY ESSENTIALS IN KC

IN EVERY ISSUE 22

EDITOR’S NOTE

INKANSASCITY.COM

THIS MONTH IN KC

110

FACES IN KC

C R O W N C E N T E R , L E V E L 3 • 816 . 274 . 32 2 2 H O L I DAY H O U R S B EG I N F R I DAY, N OV 26 M O N – S AT: 10 A M – 7 PM • S U N : N O O N – 5 PM C H R I S T M A S E V E: 10 A M – 5 PM

This year’s gift.

family heirloom. Kansas City's First Family of Music

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Brimacombe & Cohen are a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual Brimacombe & Cohen are a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes property conditions only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions

Editor’s Note

Vol. 4 | No. 12 DECEMBER 2021

You Got to Have Friends…

Editor In Chief Zim Loy Digital Editor Emily Park Art Director Alice Govert Bryan

…

photo by aaron leimkuhler

Associate Art Director Eva Tucker

the lyrics to an old Bette Midler song go. And I am blessed with many. My life this past year has been anything but normal. Most devastating of all, of course, was the loss of my husband of 31 years. But I’ve also renovated a home that was originally meant for the two of us (which took 11 months rather than the estimated six), moved three times, and kept my day job as editor of this magazine. Google “life’s biggest stressors” and you’ll find my name. Last year, I wrote an editor’s note that postulated that 2020 was my “annus horribilis” because of Covid. 2021 took a look at that and said, “hold my beer.” But my support, my cadre of friends, has seen me through this. From other widows who lost their husbands too soon counseling me in those first weeks after my unimaginable loss, to friends who fed me and cared for me, to those who offered to sit with my husband when I had to leave to run errands, to friends who packed (and unpacked) my belongings in my many moves, to the team at the office, picking up my slack without complaint when I just wasn’t able to meet looming deadlines, which happen every four weeks in this business. As I write this, sitting in my newly completed dining room, looking out the window at my lovely view, a dear, dear friend is steaming the just-hung curtains that frame that view. (He also installed the hardware and hung the curtains.) Because I just moved in two weeks ago and have a house full of family due for a visit tomorrow, he’s making sure my new home is presentable. He and his partner have been a godsend to me— moving boxes I couldn’t, dropping off food when I didn’t have a kitchen, and even assembling my new bed. With great tragedy come great blessings. And my friends are definitely my blessings.

Contributing Writers Kelsey Cipolla, Judith Fertig, Timothy Finn, Cindy Hoedel, Cody Hogan, Merrily Jackson, Damian Lair, Rachel Murphy, Patricia O’Dell, Katie Van Luchene Contributing Photographers Kathryn Brown Day, Corie English, Jeff Evrard, Aaron Leimkuehler, Amanda Reamer, Brian Rice Publisher Michelle Jolles Media Director Brittany Coale Senior Media Consultants Katie Delzer, Nicole Kube, Krista Markley Newsstand Consultant Joe J. Luca, JK Associates 816-213-4101, jkassoc.net

Editorial Questions: zloy@inkansascity.com

Advertising Questions: bcoale@inkansascity.com

Distribution Questions: mjolles@inkansascity.com

Magazine Subscriptions:

Mail: In Kansas City, PO Box 92257 Long Beach CA 90809 Phone: 888-881-5861, M–F, 8–4 PST Email: inkansascity@psfmag.com

Subscribe Online:

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Zim IN Kansas City is published monthly by KC Media LLC

118 Southwest Blvd., 2nd Floor Kansas City, MO 64108 816-768-8300 | inkansascity.com Annual Subscriptions are $19.95

DECEMBER 2021

| 22 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Timeless Gifts Holiday Treasures

Give From Over 3,000 Creations Contemporary • Estate • Antique • Custom

All 50% OFF + Additional 20% OFF Through Dec. 31 More Sparkle

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Bows • Blings • Beautiful Things Your Holiday Shopping ends at Lilliane’s

Lilliane’s J E W E L R Y

EXPLORE OUR WEBSITE AT

INKANSASCITY.COM Read on! Are you just a few (or a lot of ) books from meeting your 2021 reading goal? Look no further than Helianthus Books. This pop-up bookstore is self-funded by Kelly Stromberg, who finds books for all ages that might be hard to find at big box and larger chain bookstores. She locates books written by and about marginalized identities and topics, aiming to connect people with literature that will enrich their lives. Check out inkansascity.com for details about where Helianthus Books will pop-up next.

ENTER TO WIN A night to remember. Enter to win a one-night stay at The Raphael Hotel on the Kansas City Country Club Plaza and dinner for two at Third Street Social’s Plaza location. The luxury boutique hotel is styled with European elegance and charm and is complete with a hotel bar, restaurant, fitness center, and more. Third Street Social offers a full menu of delectable dinner options, such as this season’s Sweet Potato & Squash Pie and Beef Filet En Croute. This is sure to be a night to remember. Enter to win by December 31 at inkansascity. com/the-magazine/enter-to-win. Good luck!

EN TO

Trying to decide where to eat? From happy hours to the local

restaurant scene, we’ve got the city’s most complete dining guide. Check ‘em out at inkansascity.com/eatdrink/dining-guide

FACEBOOK @INKANSASCITYMAGAZINE

TWITTER @INKANSASCITYMAG

Discover the most comprehensive calendar in the metro—art galleries, dance, theater, social events, and music, music, music at inkansascity.com/ events

An all-in-one performer. It’s not often

you meet a beatboxer, singer, beat producer, rapper, and keyboard player in one person, but this Kansas City-based performer fits the bill. Luke “musicbyskippy” Harbur has been performing at events, festivals, concerts, and more around town for a while now. The music artist recently quit his day job and began life as a full-time musician. Now, Harbur is preparing to release musicbyskippy’s first album dying wish in early 2022. Our digital editor Emily Park has the latest on the new album at inkansascity.com.

DECEMBER 2021

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INSTAGRAM @INKANSASCITYMAG

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER subscribe at INKANSASCITY.COM (under The Magazine tab)

MUSICBYSKIPPY PHOTO BY ITZEL SANCHEZ

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‘Tis the Season to Find a Truly Special Gift. Start Here! By Katy Schamberger so they can select coordinating jewelry, or even propose here at the store,” Jerry says.“Customers bring us food, and Sarah gets ﬂowers delivered. We’ve made so many personal connections and kept them for decades. I dare say that’s not nearly so common across the multi-store national jewelry chains.”

you’re considering the gift of jewelry this holiday season, here’s a pro tip: Yellow gold, already sweeping the East and West Coasts as an of-themoment trend, is increasingly coveted in Kansas City. “For a while, white gold and platinum were dominant,” says Jerry Chaitman, owner. “Jewelry is in fashion just like clothing. Certain things are always popular, but other styles come and go.” To continue with the fashion analogy, stepping into Lilliane’s Jewelry, nestled in the heart of Leawood near 95th Street and Mission Road, is like ﬁnding yourself in the world’s most stylish walk-in closet. Ornate antique pieces that exemplify the intricacy of handwork mingle with the striking simplicity of Art Deco styles. Classic pieces by jewelry giants like David Yurman and Tiffany & Co. beckon, ready to add sophisticated polish to any ensemble. And that’s just the start—of the selection, the service, the magic of a family-owned jewelry store with a story as compelling as the jewels themselves.

“Life Is Too Short to Wear Ordinary Jewelry” Jerry and Diane’s well-trained eyes and knack for understanding the pieces and styles that will resonate with customers has made them jewelry buying experts—and it’s one of the things they love most about their work. “We have something for everyone and we’re

adding new jewelry every day,” Jerry says. “The jewelry we offer is unique; it isn’t cookie-cutter. People come in and are amazed by the stunning selection and exceptional value.” Just as the team at Lilliane’s maintains an unwavering commitment to quality, they similarly prioritize family. Jerry and Diane’s grandsons, Alex and Austin, have joined the business, along with in-house jeweler, Sarah Bichsel. Austin, for one, didn’t expect to work in the industry, but says the career transition is just what he needed. “I previously worked in engineering and had to travel a lot,” he says. “Working here gave me an opportunity to stay home more, and that was initially the main draw. It’s a fascinating profession, too; there’s a lot more to jewelry than people realize until you really start to look deeper. I’ve now developed a true and complete appreciation for the artistry involved in ﬁne jewelry making. Exceptional pieces tell a story and become part of their owner’s story.” Alex shares a similar interest in the business of jewelry, but says he loves an opportunity to make customers feel like they’re also part of the family. “I was taught from day one the importance of customers, not sales,” Alex says. “It’s great when customers develop into friends, or even feel like family. They come in and tell me about their day-to-day life. This is really the best part of personal service, and it never gets old.” Not only will the Lilliane’s team hear about what’s happening with customers, many times, the store itself becomes a focal point for a treasured memory. “We’ve had people bring wedding dresses in

CELEBRATE A BELOVED TRADITION: LILLIANE’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY SALE As the holiday season kicks off, attention becomes even more attuned to traditions, family, gathering, and, of course, gift-giving. And that’s where the team at Lilliane’s Jewelry excels. Now through the end of December, take advantage of a beloved annual tradition: Lilliane’s Holiday Sale. Save an additional 20 percent off of the already half-off prices for more than 3,000 pieces of jewelry. For every style and for every budget. If you feel overwhelmed or uncertain about jewelry-buying, that’s yet another reason to shop locally at Lilliane’s. Jerry, Diane, Alex, and Austin are all waiting to welcome you, understand more about the person you’re shopping for and help you pick a truly special gift. “You should know what you’re buying and who you’re buying from,” Jerry says. Adds Alex, “Come in and get a feel for what we have to offer. Sometimes customers come in without a clear direction and discover something they love; or, conversely, they have an idea and instead ﬁnd something completely different and unexpected. That’s the beauty of our vast collection: it’s constantly changing, so you can come back regularly and see different things.” Mark your calendars for Dec. 3-4, Lilliane’s annual Holiday Open House. Browse the wellstocked jewelry cases as you enjoy snacks, refreshment and holiday merriment. Then, celebrate getting an early start on your holiday gift-buying and spend more time anticipating how that special someone will react to such a thoughtful and beautiful gift. Who knows: as you support one family-focused tradition at Lilliane’s during the holiday sale, you just might ﬁnd a precious reason to start your own personal tradition.‘Tis the season for a little magic and sparkle, after all!

9437 Mission Road, Leawood, KS 913•383•3376 • lillianesjewelry.com

Women in Business

IN KC

Judith Fertig

photo by

Corie English

Debra Hudacek

DEBRA HUDACEK LOVES HOUSES. TINY ONES, BIG ONES, GOOD ONES, BAD ONES

rowing up on the East Coast with a fine arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, Debra Hudacek might not have originally envisioned a career in the construction industry—but she soon discovered she was surprisingly well prepared. “My father was a new-home builder. He would take my brother and me with him on Saturday mornings while he met with subcontractors,” Hudacek recalls. “I was a little kid, 6 or 7. I loved those mornings and I guess I loved seeing the process. My dad died when I was 8, but what I saw so early in my life stuck with me. Sixteen years later, I bought my first old house to remodel and put back on the market. Hudacek came to Kansas City in 1982. “I was lured by the season tickets to Chiefs games,” she confesses, but soon found another long-lasting love—vintage homes. “I wanted to live in the heart of the city which meant an older home that needed some love. That led to more homes here, all needing love.” She founded D. P. Hudacek Contracting in 1988 and hasn’t looked back. Now she does most of her construction/remodeling work in Leawood, Prairie Village, and Mission Hills. “We have so many incredible homes in this area with homeowners who are proud of their homes and proud of their neighborhoods. If you love remodeling and rebuilding, this area is a unique place to live and work. I can’t imagine many other places like Kansas City—great home values and wonderful neighborhoods.” Hudacek credits her success and longevity, in part, to caring about her cliDECEMBER 2021 |

ents. “My goal has always been to give my clients more than they pay for,” she says. “We then follow up long after the last check is cashed.” Yet as a woman in the home building and remodeling arena, Hudacek believes she has several advantages. “I’m not sure being a woman determines whether you have return clients and referrals. I believe it has more to do with developing relationships, building trust, and caring that the client gets as close to their dream project as possible.” Seeing the bigger picture also helps. “I have lived all the life stages, so I look to the current needs, but also long-term needs,” she says. Her creative imagination is also a plus. Hudacek sees “a space as it is and as it could be, which has possibly set me apart,” she adds. “It is more the art of the project than just the building process alone. That said, construction is still very much a man’s world. It takes a bit of self-confidence to work with teams that are all men. I learned the hard way, made mistakes and tried to learn from them.” And she got her hands dirty. “After a while, my male subcontractors figured out maybe I knew a little something,” she says with a chuckle. “I am also lucky enough to have one of the best, if not the best, on-site supervisors in Kansas City, Jeff Admins.” Building or remodeling a house is like working a puzzle for Hudacek. “Underneath the wallpaper and the pretty cabinets is the real house. Building them, remodeling them, taking them apart and putting back better is so much more fun than just the finished project,” she says. Hudacek measures her success in several ways. “Hanging in there when the market has its ups and downs and keeping my staff employed,” is a big one, she says. “Home construction is a service industry. People need us to help them manage and maintain their homes. This can be a life-long career that pays well for skilled personnel. Every day is different with a unique set of goals. It is also an industry that can provide and encourage training on the job and education.” Running a close second as a measure of success is developing relationships based on trust. “This has led to many repeat clients and clients I consider friends,” she says. Finally, and the icing on the cake, is her need to be proud of the finished project and have clients who are happy with their homes. To women planning their entrepreneurial careers, Hudacek urges them to take a long rather than a short-term view. “Go into a field that challenges you and that you love,” she advises. “Having your own business is a lot of work, often seven days a week. Don’t be intimidated by what the field is now, but imagine how it is going to change. Medicine, banking, engineering, architecture, construction—they were all considered professions for men in the past. Be brave.” facebook.com/dphudacekcontracting

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Know Your Worth

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. POWER IS PERSONAL. Whether it’s a path to security, a gateway to your dreams or the road to being your own boss, we have the people and resources to empower you. Learn more at UMB.com/WXW

This Month IN KC

December

WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AND WHAT YOU NEED TO SEE

Emily Park

Six Excellent Ideas for New Year’s Eve Friday, December 31

Noon Year’s Eve

Science City Noon – 7:00 p.m. unionstation.org/sciencecity FOR THE KIDDOS Close out the old year with Science City’s fun and educational destination to ring in the New Year with the whole family. The Noon Year’s Eve celebration will include fun, interactive science demos, and workshops with dedicated activities for early learners. Attendees will also be able to choose from maker activities, animal educator chats, Science City’s classic attractions, and more.

Black Party XVII

Starts at 8:00 p.m. The Truman blackpartykc.com

New Year’s Eve at the Temple XII 8:00 p.m. – 2:30 a.m. The Scottish Rite Temple nyekc.com

NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED NYE at The Temple is ranked as one of the top New Year’s parties in the country, according to the event’s host, Borda Productions—and with good reason. This NYE party includes unlimited drinks, four floors to party on, and eight party areas to dance in the new year. Guests will hear Top40 music curated by four DJs with a production of lasers and an LED Screen. Food options will be available from Slater’s, a local Kansas City food truck.

New Year’s Eve 2022 Celebration!

A KC NEW YEAR’S CLASSIC After a long run at Californos, the Black Party NYE is back for its 17th year at The Truman for NYE 2022. The New Year’s party will include six hours of unlimited premium drinks with upgraded VIP liquor options. VIP ticket holders will also be served a wide selection of hors d’oeuvres. All guests can expect to enjoy live DJs, dancing, and party favors.

7:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. The View at Briarcliff Event Space theviewatbriarcliff.com

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Kansas City-based cover band Private Stock will help partygoers count down to midnight as the live entertainment at this NYE party. At this event, a 7,200-square-foot ballroom will be dressed with new year’s flair, including party favors, food catered by Relish Catering, and a complimentary photo booth. Guests will enjoy an open premium bar—complete with a Champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight. The evening’s best dressed also wins a gift card.

NYE Live!

8:00 p.m. – Midnight KC Live! in the Power & Light District powerandlightdistrict.com NYE AT KC’S TOP BARS Check out some of Kansas City’s best nightlife offerings while ringing in the new year at Kansas City Power and Light District’s KC Live! Partygoers can look forward to exclusive access to 10+ bars and nightclubs, all-inclusive food and drink packages, DJ’s, NYE-themed party favors, Champagne toasts, confetti cannons, and a countdown to midnight—complete with a “Times Square”-type ball drop.

New Year’s Eve at the Crossroads Hotel 9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. crossroadshotelkc.com

WHERE TO SEE-AND-BE-SEEN A transformative night featuring round-the-clock music and entertainment, open bar with top-shelf cocktails, Champagne all night and sweet and savory bites. Performances throughout the night include Quixotic, Calvin Arsenia in an intimate candlelit session in the private dining room, and Nomada, with serious jungle vibes taking over the ballroom. DJ Sheppa headlines the evening and helps ring in the New Year. Book a room and stay all night.

For Kansas City’s most comprehensive calendar of events, go to inkansascity.com DECEMBER 2021

| 28 | INKANSASCITY.COM

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for me”

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Entertaining

IN KC

Notions About New Year’s Eve

WHAT ARE YOU DOING FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE? OUR ENTERTAINING COMMITTEE-OF-ONE OFFERS OPTIONS FOR CELEBRATING THE ARRIVAL OF 2022

Merrily Jackson

photo by

Corie English

E Email me with your entertaining questions, dilemmas, or triumphs at mjackson@inkansascity.com

DECEMBER 2021 |

32 | INKANSASCITY.COM

ven before the pandemic, it had become, to an extent, fashionable to stay home on New Year’s Eve. “We never go out,” you might have sniffed as you saw my topic this month. But there’s a reason New Year’s Eve has historically been the colossus of party nights: it’s a chance to celebrate with friends the promise of a fresh new year, with a holiday the following day. December 31 falls on a Friday this year—that in itself gives you grounds (the whole weekend to recov-

MCCROSKEYINTERIORS.COM 913-282-1161 • info@mccroskeyinteriors

Entertaining

IN KC

Sparkling Mocktails to Ring in the New Year

On New Year’s Eve, treat your non-drinking guests to virgin cocktails that are just as festive as those with booze. Use fancy stemware and a fun garnish. SHIRLEY TEMPLE: 6 ounces ginger ale and 1½ teaspoons grenadine. Garnish with an orange slice and/or maraschino cherry. (For a Roy Rogers, substitute cola for the ginger ale.) VIRGIN MARY: 3 ounces tomato juice or V-8, 3 ounces cranberry juice, 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco (more to taste) and 1 teaspoon lime juice. Lots of fresh-ground black pepper. Garnish with cilantro sprig, celery stick, lime wedge or pickle! WINTER WARMER: 3 parts pear nectar, 1 part cranberry juice and a big squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with lemon and cinnamon stick. FAUX KIR: 1 teaspoon raspberry syrup (available in coffee and gourmet stores) or grenadine, 6 ounces sparkling chilled cider. Garnish with fresh cranberries. Serve in a champagne flute. Cheers!

DECEMBER 2021 |

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er) to host a little party with your vaccinated friends. Consider also that your house is already gussied up for the season. Have I persuaded you? If so, here are some tried-and-true ideas for New Year’s Eve gatherings, and accompanying food ideas. THE PRE-PARTY PARTY Have friends in for cocktails early in the evening, before they proceed to other festivities, or perhaps before they just go back home and watch the telly, satisfied that they’ve been somewhere. Depending on your group, you could plan it for from 5 to 7 p.m., 6 to 8 p.m. or 7 to 9 p.m. Choose a simple yet glamorous cocktail to serve, something you can make ahead in quantity, like Lemon-Drop Champagne Punch. You’ll also want to have, at minimum, red and white wine, beer and something interesting for those not drinking alcohol (see mocktail ideas on the left). Since your guests will be imbibing, you definitely want to serve food, but it doesn’t need to be elaborate. I always appreciate being served small, bite-sized tidbits you can pop in your mouth without having to juggle them with your drink. Email me for my favorite cocktail food recipes, or any recipes mentioned herein. A FANCY COVERED-DISH SUPPER WITH CLOSE FRIENDS A cozy, candlelit dinner party is a time-honored way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Invite six or eight people you love to spend time with—so the party is small yet populated enough to keep the conversation flowing. Lighten your workload by asking everyone to bring a dish, gently coordinated by you to avoid menu overlap. Invite people for 9 p.m., have drinks for an hour and serve dinner in three courses, starting at 10 p.m. Time it so you’re finishing up the meal at about 11:30 p.m. That gives you just enough time to fill your glasses, pass out the silly hats and noisemakers, go around the table and have each person make a wish for the planet, and—voila! It’s midnight. If you don’t want to stay up that late, start the proceedings earlier, celebrate at 10 or 11 and pretend it’s midnight. Here’s a festive menu idea. For an impeccable wintertime first course: a composed salad of endive, pear, and Roquefort cheese. Serve a slow-roasted beef tenderloin with red-wine sauce for your main course, along with potato fennel gratin and roasted cherry tomatoes, the latter is more for color on the plate. Vanilla crème brulée would be a delicious, make-ahead dessert. You could also serve this elegant dinner for

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Entertaining

IN KC

Christmas Day. You know what to do if you want recipes. AN EVENING OF WHOLESOME BOARD GAMES If you’re a fan of board games, invite like-minded friends for an evening of Pictionary, Scrabble, Uno, Yahtzee, Monopoly or Trivial Pursuit. Cards Against Humanity and What Do You Meme are fun if you’re hosting a group that’s not too prim and proper. Offer a light, simple dinner: corn and crabmeat chowder would be perfect, or white chili and cornbread, or jambalaya. Then, after you start the games, serve a few sweets for dessert, such as The Barefoot Contessa’s Outrageous Brownies or Nigella Larson’s chocolate peanut-butter cups. For fun, spirited competition, you need comfortable seating, participants who are not especially inebriated, and a bossy, organized host. Your guests will be looking to you to have everything set up and ready to go, and to decide exactly when to settle down and start the games. Offer only two or three options—games that you are familiar with. This is not the time to wade through the instructions for a new game. LATE-NIGHT SWEETS AND BUBBLY New Year’s Eve will be the last time many will splurge on sweets be-

Pear Tree

fore the diets kick in. Invite friends to ring in 2022 with Champagne and a dessert buffet. Here is a simple formula: at least one thing chocolate, something with fruit, something with nuts, something cold, and something warm. A good sample menu: a flourless chocolate torte; a fresh pear cake; a carrot-walnut Bundt cake and warm toffee pie with French-vanilla ice cream. If you have guests who are gluten-free or vegan, let that further guide your menu decisions. When possible, cut the desserts into small servings (one or two bites), so people can sample everything. Coffee service will be deeply appreciated at this party. Make good coffee, regular and unleaded, from freshly ground beans—it makes a difference. Regarding Champagne: let it chill for at least three hours and be careful opening it. You really can put an eye out! How much to buy? If the gathering will last just a couple of hours, the rule of thumb is two glasses per person. A bottle serves approximately six glasses. You do the math. Two final notes for any party you have on New Year’s Eve: Don’t wait until the last minute to do your shopping. Markets are madhouses on holidays; liquor stores invariably run out of decent Champagne. And don’t forget the music!

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Let us guide you home for the Holidays.

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Wishing you and yours the best this season from The Locate Team!

The Locate Team —

816.280.2773 locatekc.com The Locate Team is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions

Our Man BY

IN KC

Damian Lair

dlair@inkansascity.com : @damianlair #OurManINKC

Dinner with Lidia

Damian Lair with Lidia Bastianich.

PARTY BLOCK

ith her Becco restaurant in New York, Eataly locations now in five major U.S. cities, a line of fine pastas and sauces, and a dozen-plus penned cookbooks, Lidia Bastianich is an Italian culinary forza. Building upon the continued success of her eponymous Lidia’s Kansas City restaurant in the Crossroads’ historic Freight House, she visited Kansas City to both open a new pergola space for the restaurant’s 23rd anniversary and to launch her latest cookbook, Lidia’s A Pot, A Pan, And A Bowl. The new Italian-style pergola was designed with a Midwest farmhouse sensibility. It includes an Ewerdt Hilgemann sculpture fabricated by Zahner and features heaters and all-weather curtains to accommodate our sometimes-erratic Midwest weather. It’s a divine space for private events and gatherings. As for the new cookbook, it is a collection of more that 100 recipes distilled to the essentials, requiring but a few ingredients and steps—and even fewer dirty dishes. It is also the companion cookbook to the upcoming television series, Lidia’s Kitchen: Home Cooking. With my fresh copy, I cannot wait to conquer the skillet lasagna and rollatini of sole. OVERHEARD Following the ribbon-cutting cer“Well, I’ve gotta emony and cocktail reception, a prihand it to him. vate anniversary celebration dinner No one tries was held that featured items included harder to appear in the new cookbook deliciously prewoke.” pared by the executive chef, Cody Hogan. Among them were mini meatloaves, ricotta gnudi, and chicken and eggplant parmigiana. We’re so fortunate to have a taste of Italy this close to home. Andiamo! DECEMBER 2021 |

OVERHEARD “Aunt Sassy is reporting that her cat brooch is missing.”

IT WAS THE PERFECT DAY for a block party. Held outdoors at Woodside Village in Westwood, the occasion was a dual celebration of Ulah’s 5th anniversary and the grand opening of its sister store, Luna. For those unacquainted, Ulah is a men’s apparel and lifestyle store operated by Joey Mendez and Buck Wimberly. The shop has been recognized both locally and nationally for its considered selection of products—clothing, shoes, jewelry, home, and personal care items—geared toward every kind of gentleman. Offered brands include the likes of Scotch & Soda, Billy Reid, Run on clouds, Charlie Hustle and Made Mobb. After five (occasionally grueling) years, the pair behind Ulah have now opened Luna, which you may have guessed, offers a similar retail feel and experience—translated for women. Just two doors down from Ulah, block partiers like myself got a first peek at the new shop, overseen by Elise Alexander. The emphasis at Luna is undoubtedly clothing, but like Ulah, there are plenty of other accessorizing and gifting items to capture one’s attention. I was excited to see a variety of locally made Sierra Winter jewelry, whose natural, prairie-style motifs were a no-brainer for the Luna concept. Back outside, drinks were being poured to the beats of DJ Sheppa, and there were bites from Woodside neighbors, Blue Sushi Sake Grill and The Roasterie Café. Session salon flung its doors open to the crisp breeze, with business humming away inside, and massage therapists from Woodside Health Club (coincidentally, my primary massage spa of choice) performed seated mini massages alfresco. Perfection. SPOTTED: Jim Blair, Kevin Hancock, Dan Nilsen, Lee Page, Sarah Page & Drue Kennedy, Stuart Hanson, Chris Loggins, Curtis Woods, Andy Doohan, Emily & Aaron Confessori, Maggie & John Mennyhertz

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Our Man

IN KC

HISTORY PRESERVED

HOT GOSSIP:

FIVE YEARS AGO, I made my way through a decaying, decrepit buildWhose bar opening’s ing—sidestepping falling plaster, guest list was a dodging rodents, and doing my overall snooze-a-riffic blast best to be cautious in an unsafe and from the past? unstable environment. Floor by floor, and finally via an attic ladder, we made our way to the rooftop and soaked in what I still remember being one of the most resplendent autumn days. Perched atop a home (a mansion, more accurately) at the top of a hill, we could see the entire city and its surrounding tableau of warm fall colors. Thanks to Paul Gutiérrez, it was a magical gift to experience the “before.” Years later, 22 million dollars, and hundreds of careful, restorative hands, Corinthian Hall at the Kansas City Museum has been revived to its original Beaux-Arts splendor. I arrived bright and early for a pre-opening glimpse of the finally completed project and was so happy that Fairway Creamery’s food truck was on hand for morning sustenance. I grabbed a hot cup of coffee and a blueberry crumble donut and was on my way. I began my self-guided tour in the basement and eventually worked my way up the additional three floors. There I found a restored billiard room and the museum’s reinterpreted soda fountain, Elixir. Beginning early next year, museum patrons will be able to enjoy ice cream and phosphates here. Glass enclosures in the hallway thoughtfully reveal the home’s original Otis commercial elevator—the first of its kind installed in a private residence west of the Mississippi. On the ground level, a variety of salons and living spaces now host various exhibits and collections currently devoted to the building’s history—which, itself is impressive. Robert Alexander Long, a lumber baron who got his start in Columbus, Kansas, built not only the largest lumber company at the time (later merged with International Paper Co.), but also the 1909 70-room, 35,000 sq. ft. stone mansion occupying three acres facing North Terrace Park. The home was designed by architect Henry Hoit (you may recognize similarities with another of his notable home designs at 55th & Ward Parkway). The grand salon, designed in the Louis XVI style, is now home to the most incredible porcelain blossoming overhead light sculpture by Linda Lighton, as well as items collected by the Long family on their six-month grand tour of Europe to collect art and furnishings for the home. Also on the ground floor are Wisteria, a boutique featuring home, clothes, and accessory items, many created by local artists and designers; and Café at 3218, which will initially offer culinary programming, including cooking demonstrations and classes, and ultimately a full-service museum café. Ascending the colossal marble split staircase—where the landing once held a pipe organ punctually played by Long’s valet at breakfast and twilight—will take you to DECEMBER 2021 |

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OVERHEARD the second floor, where five exhibition galleries “Leave the showcase rotating historical materials from the coat. Men will Museum’s more than 100,000-piece permanent surround you collection. There is additional dedicated space for for warmth.” school programming and community meetings. The third floor is occupied by an additional three galleries (one currently with an interesting exhibit dedicated to the El Torreon Ballroom, including its original mirror ball) and the JE Dunn auditorium and theater. This entire project has been a brave and bold act of preservation. At every turn, I was impressed, surprised, and delighted. From the painstaking reclamation of a treasured building and care given to adapting it to modern needs, to the incredible artworks, lighting, and ornate historical details throughout, it is something that everyone—everyone—needs to see.

VROOM VROOM I REMEMBER attending the first HomeComing event for SAVE Inc. Somehow, since then, ten years have slipped by. From Wonderland to a German speakeasy, and plenty of exotic locales in between, we’ve hopped from place to place in an effort to raise funds for permanent, transitional, and emergency assistance housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness. This year, for its 10th anniversary spectacular, SAVE invited us to tropical Miami, combining beach life with the city’s speed racing culture. Guests were greeted by an Ocean Avenue-like succession of exotic cars leading to the rear of Studio Dan Meiners. A delivery truck garage door rolled up to reveal a pit crew’s shop and volunteer greeter (Katie Gilchrist) eager to remind of SAVE’s mission, as well as offer a welcome glass of champagne. Through the palm trees, we entered a tropical paradise—alive with hula-hoopers, roller skaters, and baton throwers. Guests, eager to resume in-person conviviality, sipped on themed cocktails provided by Mike’s Liquor and City Barrel Brewery and Kitchen, noshed at the taco bar, competed in the Mario Kart race, and played a variety of games for wine or cash. Dalton Qualien-Waters took home the top four-figure prize, and generously donated it right back to SAVE. Blaine Proctor provided updates on SAVE’s work in the community, followed by dancing to DJ NE$$, interrupted only by a whimsical troupe of twirling umbrellas, strung with individually wrapped churros. Who doesn’t love a churro—and spending an evening with fun people coming together for a common community purpose? SPOTTED: Mayor Quinton Lucas & Katherine Carttar, Co-Chairs Angela Rizzo and Courtney Meyer, Kevin Bryant, Tom Suther, Ron White, Kristopher Dabner, Eric Thomas, Jonathan Gregory, Colby Oberbroeckling, Anna Knutson, Brant Stacy, Belinda Manos, Bruce Thurman, James Jensvold, Blake Dankert, Ricardo Salabarria, Trevor Karasek, Nick Gardner, Scott Sanders, Justin Campbell, Josh Dampf, Frank Campanella, James Maiden, Drew Elliott, Derek Kern, Darrell Vanterpool, Isaac Walker, Aaron Crossley

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Arts&Culture

IN KC

Elizabeth Suh Lane

THE EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR-FOUNDER OF BACH ARIA SOLOISTS by

Judith Fertig

photo by

Jeff Evrard

cclaimed by renowned music director Michael Tilson Thomas as “among the finest chamber musicians in America today,” violinist Elizabeth Suh Lane has forged a creative path that has crossed oceans and continents and timelines. In the late 1950s, her parents left a small village in South Korea. Eventually, the family ended up in Baldwin City where Lane’s father took a full professorship at Baker University. Lane, the youngest of six children, learned to sit straight and practice the violin for hours. This talent and hard work earned her scholarships at both UMKC and Yale. After Yale, she took a chance and moved to Europe, where she studied in Switzerland with violin master Max Rostal and landed a place with the London Symphony Orchestra. Today, she’s back in Kansas City, working on Bach Aria Soloist collaborative concerts. The upcoming Holiday Concert, on December 11 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, features the glorious work of Handel, Mozart, and Bach as well as traditional holiday carols. The Bach Aria Soloists and Wylliams Henry Contemporary Dance join forces on February 22. Trumpeter Rodney Marsalis joins the Soloists on April 30. bachariasoloists.com

INKC: Some people joke that they were child prodigies, but you actually were. You read by age 2, started playing the violin at 4. What drew you to the violin? Lane: A family friend’s daughter played the violin in a recital to which my parents took me. I was instantly attracted to it, so I asked if I could play. My parents always appreciated music; almost all my siblings took instrument lessons at one time or another. As I was not yet in school, my parents saw it as a good diversion for me, so they got me a fiddle and a fine Suzuki teacher, Eleanor Allen, and my lifelong affair with music began. With that small piece of wood, 23 inches long, the incredible range of sounds, beauty, and different styles of music and ways of playing are endless! INKC: Of all the classical composers that could have in-

DECEMBER 2021

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fluenced you, it was tastemaker/composer extraordinaire Johann Sebastian Bach, known for his precision, intricate harmonies, and baroque style. Why Bach? Lane: I have always felt a deep spiritual engagement with Bach, learning the Sonatas and Partitas, his divine chamber music with continuo— some of the violin sonatas with klavier are as moving as it gets! The cantata repertoire, the Brandenburg Concertos, the Goldberg Variations, and Passions—they are as vast and profound as anything in the musical canon. All on the highest plane of art, of humanity, and spirituality. Yes, his brilliance with polyphony, virtuosity, Baroque mastery is renowned but well beyond the technique, there is a reason why many have equated Bach and his music to God and the voice of God—he dedicated much of his life to soli Deo gloria—all for the glory of God and how perfectly suited his voice was to depicting sermons in music as he did brilliantly for the majority of his career. Put simply, in grief or when feeling really low, his music raises me up more than any other. INKC: You founded Bach Aria Soloists at the end of 1999, inspired

by a New York chamber ensemble of the same name. How did this come about? Lane: I had performed full time with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe. I traveled the world. My husband and I got married, so the next thing was to settle down and start a family. As my daughter was just an infant when we left London, I wanted to continue performing somehow, juggling a career as a

DECEMBER 2021

musician with motherhood. But I also discerned that I needed to try a different path than I had forged in Europe. I didn’t really know if I could manage to raise my daughter and this new child—the Bach Aria Soloists—simultaneously, successfully, but I felt that Kansas City was the perfect place to try. As I am an enormous Bach lover, I desired an ensemble where Bach was at the heart of a very wide spectrum of music performed by a versatile, talented group of dedicated, extraordinary musicians. The original Bach Aria Group had disbanded a few decades before I began forming our ensemble, but as I had worked with them, I phoned up the former violinist Danny Phillips and asked for his blessing to form the Bach Aria Soloists anew with a new mission and vision, and he enthusiastically endorsed us! INKC: How does the Kansas City area nurture your creativity and

your life? Lane: Kansas City is a very welcoming, friendly, manageable, arts-filled universe—burgeoning in the last two decades with all genres of the arts—which I have witnessed with delight since relocating here. With the support of my husband, I have been able to raise an incredible family while bringing my vision of BAS to fruition here in Kansas City—the beautiful soloists of BAS have all made their careers here, the Board of Directors and the extraordinary family foundations, plus Kansas City community of BAS patrons have all supported BAS and myself these past two decades, for which I am ever grateful.

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Arts & Culture BY

IN KC

Judith Fertig

MUXE: AN ARTISTIC APPROACH TO GENDER FLUIDITY MEXICAN AMERICAN artist Hugo Ximello-Salido will be among those exhibiting at the Queer Narrative Festival at Beco Gallery, the showroom of Beco Flowers in the Crossroads. Ximello-Salido comes from Jalisco, Mexico, where gender fluidity, rather than strict gender roles, is part of the region’s ancient culture. “The Zapotecan language has no male and female pronouns, no ‘he-she,’ only pronouns for people and animals,” he says. According to Ximello-Salido, “In Zapotecan society, those who identify as “muxe” (pronounced moo-shay) are venerated because they have special gifts.” Muxe are artistic men who express their feminine side through dress or occupation; they may be married with families, they may not. In the Zapotecan culture, that doesn’t matter as much as their talent and unique way of looking at the world. In addition to his paintings, Ximello-Salido is working on a documentary film about the mystery and allure of muxe. For more information, visit hugosalido.com.

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SUGAR AND BOOZE HOLIDAY TOUR WITH SNL’S ANA GASTEYER FOR THOSE OF US tortured with too much blaring holiday music piped everywhere, here is a respite. These are the Christmas songs you maybe haven’t heard. With a big band-era vibe and a comedic touch, Ana Gasteyer, a Saturday Night Live alum, shares her considerable musical talents and lilty voice in this one-woman show. He’s Stuck in the Chimney Again (guess who that is?) carries you along with a bongo drum cha-cha rhythm. Nothing Rhymes with Christmas, cowriters Gasteyer and Julian Fleisher maintain, “every poet knows.” Pal Maya Rudolph joins Gasteyer on Secret Santa, bluesy piano accompanies her on Blue Black Friday. So put on your long skirt with the appliqued Christmas tree, forget the to-do list for an evening, then go out for afterconcert cocktails, maybe vintage whiskey sours, anyone? You can also pick up a Sugar & Booze CD to add to your holiday music collection. The show is at the Midwest Trust Center on December 5. For more information and tickets, visit jccc.edu/midwesttrust-center.

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Arts & Culture BY

IN KC

Judith Fertig

KCUR PRESENTS: AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS TIRED of all the good cheer and forced jollity? The sardonic wit of humorist David Sedaris is just the tonic to all the excesses of the holiday season. Sedaris slices right through political correctness and cultural euphemisms with his unique take on the human condition, while still managing not to sound like Scrooge. The best-selling author of several books, his two newest Theft by Finding, Diaries (1977-2002) and A Carnival of Snackery, Diaries (2003-2020) are collections of his daily entries that he takes from the page to the stage. Noted one reviewer: “My favorite. . .was one about trying to translate the English idiom about the pot calling the kettle black into French (directed toward his French teacher who called him a sadist), which turned out something like, ‘that is like a pan…saying to a dark pan…you are a pan.’ I instantly thought of all my foreign language experience trying to translate what was in my head directly, and how often it just doesn’t work.” For David Sedaris, it all works. Laugh-out-loud brilliantly. You can catch Sedaris at the Kauffman Center on Monday evening, December 6 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and information, visit kauffmancenter.org.

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HOLIDAY POPS THE KANSAS CITY CHORALE is back with an up-tempo and light-hearted trip down memory lane. Under director Charles Bruffy’s leadership, this choir has earned international recognition as well as a slew of Grammy awards. Here, however, the choristers raise their talented voices to give us the sounds of the season, making a little magic as they go. From the plaintive but hopeful Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas to the fan favorite Jingle Bells and the Carol of the Bells from a 1914 Ukrainian melody, and more, this concert does holiday music the way it should be done. Sing along, at least in your imagination. The concert is at 2:00 p.m. on December 12 at the 1900 Building. For tickets, visit 1900bldg.com.

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Holiday concerts supported by

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Jason Seber, David T. Beals III Associate Conductor

FUN & FESTIVE PERFORMANCES A SYMPHONY HOLIDAY TRADITION

YULETIDE FUN FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

FILM + LIVE ORCHESTRA

Friday & Saturday, December 10-11 at 7 p.m. Sunday, December 12 at 2 p.m.

Thursday, December 16 at 7 p.m. Friday, December 17 at 8 p.m. Saturday, December 18 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday, December 19 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m .

Wednesday & Thursday, December 22-23 at 7 p.m. Friday, December 24 at 11 a.m.

Handel’s Messiah

Patrick Dupré Quigley, guest conductor Kansas City Symphony Chorus Charles Bruffy, chorus director Nola Richardson, Soprano Clara Osowski Mezzo-Soprano Andrew Owens, Tenor & Kenneth Kellogg, Bass The power of nearly 200 instruments and voices combined with the impeccable acoustics of Helzberg Hall provides a triumphant experience of Handel’s majestic choral masterpiece. Tickets from $30.

Christmas Festival

Jason Seber, David T. Beals III Associate Conductor Kansas City Symphony Chorus Presented by Charles Bruffy, chorus director Your Symphony and Symphony Chorus present cherished Christmas carols, songs of the season and our exciting guest vocalists — Broadway star Ashley Brown and KC favorite Lee Langston. Enjoy a healthy dose of Christmas cheer! Tickets from $25.

Home Alone

Jason Seber, David T. Beals III Associate Conductor A true holiday favorite, this comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed by your Kansas City Symphony. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who is accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Tickets for the full-length film start at $40 for adults.

SYMPHONY POPS MAKES A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT!

Tickets are available to Revolution: The Music of the Beatles — A Symphonic Experience: January 7, 8 and 9, 2022.

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Behind the Music

IN KC

n October, Ray Velasquez returned to the radio airwaves for the first time in almost 20 years. Nocturnal Transmission, the radio show he started in 1983 at KLZR-FM—“the Lazer”— in Lawrence while attending the University of Kansas, was revived by KTBG-FM—the Bridge (90.9), giving Velasquez a new palette upon which to render what he calls “music narratives,” using songs drawn from any and every genre and era. Velasquez made a name for himself in Lawrence in the mid-1980s beyond his weekly radio program. He also became a popular, go-to DJ at clubs, house parties, and other events. His popularity grew far beyond Lawrence, which prompted him to move to New York, where his DJ career flourished. Several years ago, Velasquez returned to Kansas City, his hometown, and earlier this year, the Bridge approached the Bishop Miege and KU grad about reviving his popular Sunday night radio show—18 years after its initial run ended. Velasquez recently answered questions from IN Kansas City about the show, his years in Lawrence and New York, and some of his more unusual gigs, which included the funeral of William S Burroughs and a Halloween orgy.

Ray Velasquez by

Timothy Finn

photo by

Kathryn Brown Day

DECEMBER 2021

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Who were your earliest music influences? Ray Velasquez: My earliest musical influence was my father. I come from an extremely musical family. Everybody played an instrument or sang. My father sang and played guitar. Music was at the core of my being since the moment of my first conscious thought. My father would take me to Katz Drugs to buy

hit 45s and seven-inch singles from the WHB chart. I would play them on a tiny portable record player for my little sister and the neighborhood kids. It was ’60s go-go at my house! I think there is a Super-8 home movie of that somewhere. I adored AM radio. My parents actually befriended legendary broadcasting brothers Mike and Pat Murphy. I think we even attended a few baseball games with Pat Murphy. Yeah, my dad; he was pretty cool. A blue-collar working-class hero. I miss him. What was the first album you owned? The first album you bought? RV: The first album I owned was The Chipmunks Sing the Beatles Greatest Hits from 1964. The first album I bought with my own money was a double 8-track cassette of The Beatles (the White Album). Your history includes some live performances, including musicals in high school. How did those experiences influence you? RV: I was fearless when I was on stage. It prepared me for a life in broadcasting and performance. My musical interests are quite broad. I grew up loving Broadway and Hollywood musicals. That’s my mother’s influence. So, performing in elite high school choirs and musicals came naturally to me. At talent shows I mainly sang Beatles songs and original, angst-ridden teenage rubbish. But, man, I had a blast. My huge extended family often attended to see the first-born grandkid perform. And my teachers and classmates loved it because my family laughed the loudest and clapped the hardest. Who and/or what inspired you to play the role of DJ—the person who creates a music experience for others? RV: I don’t think there was any one person who inspired me to become a DJ. It was a natural evolution. I grew up singing, playing guitar, and writing songs. I began working at a record store at 16. My first day was July 7, 1977 – 7/7/77. Talk about an omen! If anything, I think that experience may have influenced my evolution into becoming a DJ. I learned about nurturing an enhanced sense of empathy while dealing with the public. People who came into the record store trusted the opinion of a 16-year-old kid. They knew I cared. And when I began university at 18, I enrolled in quite a few music history courses, which served to further fuel my passion for music. You became a prominent tastemaker in Lawrence in the early/ mid-1980s, both as a club DJ and on on-air DJ. Talk about the music scene/community in Lawrence at the time. RV: The Lawrence music scene in the early 1980s was like Athens (Ga.), Austin, Minneapolis, and Seattle rolled into one. To quote a Get Smart! lyric: We were indeed “Berlin on the Plains.” What was it like for 19-year-old Ray? Beer, music, sex. We had radio (KJHK), venues (Off the Wall Hall and the Lawrence Opera House), and raging, glorious, youthful curiosity and open-mindedness. My first encounter with you was at the Sanctuary, a Lawrence club where you held court regularly and drew a big, loyal crowd. In late winter of 1984, you introduced me to R.E.M when you spun Radio Free Europe, and I immediately asked you about the song and band. Within a few weeks, I owned everything they’d record-

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Behind the Music

IN KC

ed. What was that period like for you—having the place and means to expose people to new and underground music in a live setting? RV: Your question gave me goosebumps, man. If I remember correctly, my residency at the Sanctuary began in the late winter/early spring of 1983. That was shortly before my first professional broadcasting job at 96X in Ottawa, Kansas. Both the Sanctuary and 96X eventually understood how I could be most effective. They gave me full artistic freedom. And I also worked with a talented crew. David Randall was among them. We remain close friends, and he is now a member of the Kansas City-based band, the Ants. David and my friends at the Sanctuary, KJHK and 96X helped create the Frankenstein-monster DJ before you now. In November, the Bridge aired an ‘80s appreciation weekend. Give us your assessment of the music of that decade—now 40 years later. RV: I loved that era. I rose from that era. The music evolution is difficult to sum up. And I would think it’s different for anyone who experienced it. But I’ll give it a shot: alternative, college rock, MTV, the Walkman, industrial dance music, house music, techno. How was Nocturnal Transmission conceived and what was your mission/goal going in? RV: Nocturnal Transmission was born in the summer of 1983 as a temporary Sunday-night replacement for The Debraining Machine, which

was an industrial-music radio show. Originally, Nocturnal Transmission was a collaboration with my best friend at the time, Kim Buie, who went on to do great things in the music biz. It began as a way to explore quiet music, film soundtracks, and experimental recordings. I don’t think I consciously knew it at the time, but what was most important was the emotional content of the show as opposed to the individual songs. It was about music and an emotional narrative and not about songs. How did it evolve over the years? RV: Excellent question, and a difficult one to answer. It continues to

evolve. I suppose the one constant is that genre matters less than the emotional narrative created. In other words, at any point in Nocturnal Transmission history one might have heard music by New Order, the Beatles, Happy Mondays, Love and Rockets, Jules Shear, the Beach Boys or Cocteau Twins blended with classic or cutting-edge electronic music. What matters most to me is connecting the dots historically, and the resulting emotional content. So, I suppose each Nocturnal Transmission is a fresh composition.

Tell our readers about the Lazer and why it has become somewhat mythical in music lore around Kansas City and Lawrence. RV: While radio stations were being gobbled up by massive corporate entities, the Lazer remained one of the last family-owned local radio stations in the country. Our programming was bold. And they gave

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me complete artistic freedom. However, that may have been because Nocturnal Transmission aired well past the bedtime of the powers that be. They were patient with me for ten years. Three of those after I had already moved to New York. My stint at The Lazer began in 1993 and ended when the new corporate owners pulled the plug in 2003.

Does that make it easier or more difficult to keep track of what deserves attention? RV: It makes it much more difficult! I love the seemingly endless possibilities, but I can spend three days selecting music for a threehour show.

In October you restarted the show on the Bridge. How did you approach this resurrection? What was the primary intent and were there things you wanted to avoid? RV: I have likened its resurrection to the Beatles ending live performances in 1966 in order to focus on creating music in the studio. It’s beyond artistically satisfying for me. I suppose my primary motivation is self-expression, and sharing music with friends and the world. What I hope is that it’s not an exercise in nostalgia. Some listeners would prefer it to be how they may remember it in the ‘80s and ‘90s. The irony is that they may not recognize that it is essentially the same show. It’s just a different century.

You were enlisted to provide music for the wake/funeral of former Lawrence resident William S Burroughs in 1997. Tell us about that and what kind of requests/advice you had going in. RV: James Grauerholz called to inform me that William had passed. He had a few selections picked out, and he left the rest to me. I think the playlist is posted somewhere on Facebook. Perhaps the standout selection was the brooding melancholy of Ry Cooder’s Paris Texas.

The music landscape has changed almost beyond recognition since 2003. How has that changed how you do your show? RV: Change is constant. Every day is a beautiful exercise of creative curiosity. There is so much music from which to draw. In a way, for me and for many of my listeners, we’re discovering it together. In the 2020s, you have a greater wealth of music at your disposal.

How long did you DJ in New York and what did those years teach you, about DJing, music and life in general? RV: I lived in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, just four subway stops from lower Manhattan. In some ways it was not unlike living in downtown Lawrence. There were families of varying ethnicities who had lived in the neighborhood for generations, as well as a vibrant community of young, forward-thinking newcomers. Smith Street had an uncanny resemblance to Massachusetts Street in downtown Lawrence. And my neighborhood friends made me feel welcomed and right at home. It’s fair to say that I hit the ground running when I moved to

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DECEMBER 2021

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Behind the Music

IN KC

New York. The performance opportunities were wide and varied. I loved it. I had already established loads of longtime friends and professional relationships. One of my earliest residencies was playing in a lounge owned by John Jellybean Benitez, Madonna’s ex-boyfriend and the man behind her earliest recordings. He phoned me when he found out I had moved to New York. The private events were the most satisfying. I was flown to play events in Tel Aviv, the Turks and Caicos Islands, Mexico, and Bahia. I’ve often joked, how many DJs do you know from Kansas City who’ve played weddings from Topeka to Tel Aviv, a funeral, and an orgy? And the orgy was the least interesting gig of them all. An orgy. Care to elaborate? RV: It was a Halloween party for a swingers group in New York who had once been on an episode of HBO’s Real Sex. It was the most unerotic thing I’d ever witnessed. It was held in a private event space above a rather swanky restaurant in West Chelsea. Hors d’oeuvres were served and cocktails began to flow. Some guests remained masked, but most wanted the full-body sensation. I was glad I wasn’t the guy who had to clean up after. You’re back in your hometown. What do you like most about living here? How did its music scene change while you were gone? RV: There’s actually quite a lot to like about living in Kansas City

DECEMBER 2021

again. It’s strange to think that I have not lived here since leaving for Lawrence at 18. But I lived in Lawrence for 20 years before moving to New York. I suppose my answer may change depending on my mood and the day of the week. Some might say that the entertainment scene has grown significantly over the past 20 years. And in some ways, it has. But I feel it remains relatively conservative. In all my years here before and after my stint in New York, I sometimes felt held back by people who may not have shared my creative vision. Luckily, MOD Gallery has become my creative home, thanks to Brian Ousley. And now the Bridge has welcomed me with open arms and full support, thanks to Bryan Truta. I couldn’t be happier.

WANT MORE TIMOTHY FINN? Check out his weekly online-only content at inkansascity.com. Every Wednesday the website publishes his list of Top 5 Notto-Miss Concerts in the metro. Every week you’ll ﬁnd his revered, rollicking, reasoned reviews and commentary. Email Timothy Finn at tﬁnn@inkansascity.com

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Look

IN KC

Fashion

Rachel Murphy

In the Middle of It All

t’s the time of year that begs for fancy clothing but also makes us regret Missouri weather when our hemlines scoot above our knees. Luckily, the hems are dropping, and the midi-length skirt or dress is back. Midi-length frocks are perfect for fall and winter—a maxi with a sandal screams summer, but a boot shines with the midi. Let this demur length define your style for work, dinner out, or the much-anticipated holiday party.

COZY VERSATILITY We all want to be swaddled in a sherpa blanket for five months starting in November, and this dress/dustercardigan allows you to do just that. Wear it alone for a casual but chic dress for the office, or layer it with pants and a tank as a contemporary work from home look. Mable wrap dress, $88, available at Addie Rose Boutique (Leawood).

SHEER AMAZEMENT Midi length can feel frumpy without a bit of interest, and this sheer burnout dress has the visual interest you need. The dress comes with a black layering slip to keep things PG, but you can easily switch it out for long sleeves to make it cozier. Puffed sleeves and tucks give this a feminine feel, perfect for date nights. Holly Days dress, $108, available at Shopgirls (Brookside).

GET SKIRTY A woman should always have a versatile black skirt in her fashion arsenal, and this knife-pleated midi-length skirt by Caballero Designs fits the bill. Pair it with a sequined crop top and platform heels for the holiday party or wear it with booties and a fitted cardigan for hot chocolate and the Plaza lights. Mia skirt by Cabellero Designs, $198, available at Alysa Rene Boutique (Park Place). DECEMBER 2021 |

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Happy Holidays

More to gift

Find something for everyone on your list! Apparel / Accessories Shoes Altar Bridal Alysa Rene Boutique Bella Bridesmaids Geno’s Mens Clothiers Moda Domani Moshiri Jewelry

Panache Chocolatier Pig & Finch RA Sushi Verdigris

Tom Tivol Jewels

Health / Beauty Bar Method Bare Med Spa The Gents Place Le Reve Nail Salon MassageLuXe Orangetheory Fitness

Home / Flowers Engel & Völkers Flowers by Emily Picasso Exotic Aquatics Pink Antlers Restaurants / Food Specialty 801 Chophouse Bamboo Penny’s BurgerFi Ice Cream Bae Outta The Blue

Entertainment Breakout KC The Ice at Park Place

Timothy Weber: A Hair Salon Hotel Aloft LeawoodOverland Park

Visit ParkPlaceLeawood.com for more details. Park Place is located on the northeast corner of Nall Avenue & 117th St., just north of AMC 20 Theatre.

Look

IN KC Beauty

Rachel Murphy

Sparkle Plenty

litter isn’t just appropriate for your decor this holiday season—it’s back with a vengeance on eyes, lips, cheeks, and even hair. But how do you rock the glitter trend without looking like a tween on a bender at Walmart? Use it strategically—pick one feature to sparkle, not all of them. And if we’ve learned nothing else from drag queens, prime and set people. Prime. And. Set. Here are a few products that can amp up your look for that outdoor holiday party.

BASE LAYER First things first–what’s the worst thing about glitter? Its reproduction number. Put glitter on your eyes, and you’ll be eating it for a week. Avoid the viral spread of your glitter by using glitter glue or primers like the Kiss Glitter Adhesive Body and Lash Glue. With a paintbrush applicator, you can position your glitter accents precisely where you want them to go, whether on eyes, lash lines, or body, then apply loose glitter. Finish with a setting spray, and you’ll be at R0 for the party season. Kiss Glitter Adhesive Body and Lash Glue, $6.99, available at Ulta.

HIGH VOLTAGE If you want to go for the brass ring, nothing beats Pat McGrath Labs Crystal Lip Kit. This is the ruby red lip taken to an Olympic level. The kit includes lip liner, lipstick, adhesive, and four different types of red glitter, ranging from fine powder to chunky crystals. Here’s the guarantee–you’ll look fabulous. The downside is you may not be able to drink any bubbles successfully. Beauty is pain, my friends. Pat McGrath Labs Crystal Lip Kit, $75, available at patmcgrath.com.

GET LOOSE Next up, let’s get down to business. One of the keys to this year’s glitter look is warmth–you’ll see much more gold than silver. Hourglass Scattered Light Glitter Eye Shadow offers nine shades that radiate warmth and flatter every skin tone. The fine, loose pigment can be applied alone (on top of the primer, of course) or used to brighten up a matte look. We love the warm champagne shade. Hourglass Scattered Light Glitter Eye Shadow, $29, available at Sephora.

DECEMBER 2021 |

SMILE, BABY! Eyes may be the easiest place to put glitter, but they aren’t the only place. Valentino Dreamdust Lip and Cheek Loose Glitter only comes in one shade, but it’s a warm rose that looks good on everyone. For a brilliant lip look, use the easy applicator to tap it on your pout after your glitter primer for a thousand-watt smile. Or hit the tops of the cheekbones in a turnedup version of highlight. Valentino Dreamdust Lip and Cheek Loose Glitter, $32, available at Nordstrom.

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Look

IN KC

Wellness

Rachel Murphy

Pelvic Floor Health

oms, if you’ve ever laughed too hard or sneezed suddenly, only to clench your legs in fear of leaking, you’re not alone. While incontinence and pain during sex postpartum are often assumptions, Kelsey Beach, DPT/PT, CMTPT, and owner of enCORE Therapy and Performance, says it shouldn’t be that way. “After you have a baby, it’s not normal to have leakage or pain with sex or to wear their badge of honor saying that I pushed a baby out, so that’s 100 percent normal,” Beach says. “My goal is to educate every single person out there that’s deciding to have a baby about what pelvic therapists know— you don’t have to suffer. Motherhood is hard enough.” Beach knows what she’s talking about. She’s been a pelvic therapist for more than a decade. Even after working with patients in this often-under-attended area for years, she was still surprised by what happened when she gave birth herself last year. “From the moment that you hear a heartbeat, the mother is a second-class citizen,” Beach says. “We need to rewrite the narrative and tell mothers, ‘I see you, I hear you. Let’s take care of you.’” For Beach, that means education at several vital stages— she offers classes on perinatal care, which can teach women the best ways to use their bodies’ resources to have the most DECEMBER 2021 |

comfortable pregnancy and labor experiences possible. Then after birth, in her postpartum care courses, she focuses on posture, core, and strengthening the pelvic floor to help the body heal and assume its new version of health. She also offers pelvic floor rehab for those who haven’t had children, which can help with various symptoms from sexual dysfunction to incontinence and more. She approaches care from a medical standpoint as a physical therapist but with the conspiratorial humor of a trusted friend. Her services are personalized and don’t require a referral. She operates as an out-of-network provider, so insurance reimbursement isn’t guaranteed, but she will work with patients to provide documentation. For so many women, feeling less than whole seems inevitable after such a significant event as childbirth, but Beach wants to change that. Visit encoretherapykc.com for more information.

Kelsey Beach, DPT/ PT, CMTPT, and owner of enCORE Therapy and Performance

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Exactly what you want.

All in one place.

Living

IN KC

Cuddle Up with Old Houses BY

Patricia O’Dell

f you are an old-house aficionado, you may have a few favorite houses from the holiday movies of the 1940’s. Christmas in Connecticut with Barbara Stanwyck, Holiday with Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant, and It’s a Wonderful Life with Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed are all great inspiration for that house in the country that you imagine could be the answer to everything. In the meantime, shake off the holiday rush and snuggle up with a hot toddy and a cozy throw no matter your style. TRADITIONAL PLAID This blue plaid throw has just enough red to say “happy holiday” without having to tuck it away January 1. Parker Blue Plaid Throw, $34 from Nell Hill’s (The Village at Briarcliff).

GRAPHIC AND GROOVY CLASSIC AND NEUTRAL The Cozy Wool throw would fit right in with any 1940’s movie set, or one of Nancy Meyers’s more current day creations. Cozy Wool Throw, $65, from Homesong Market (Brookside).

DECEMBER 2021 |

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Liven things up and let loose with a classic pattern in a vibrant color with Happy Habitat’s Pattern #2—Reds. It should carry you right through until Valentine’s Day and beyond. Pattern #2—Reds, $165, from happyhabitat.net.

LET’S GET PERSONAL THE MOTHER AND DAUGHTER duo be-

hind Mere Fille Designs, Lynne Elder and Ashley Stout, have a passion for interiors and entertaining, especially when it’s personal. Whether you are looking for a custom embroidered monogram ribbon for your holiday stocking, linen embroidered cocktail napkins for your discerning Chiefs fan, or six-inch needlepoint Bauble Stockings to dress up a gift card or two, Mere Fille Designs can fix you up. Check the site for last minute gifts. Personalized items require a three- to four-week turnaround but are worth the wait! mereﬁlledesigns.com

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Living

IN KC BY

Patricia O’Dell

unny Mellon was a leading tastemaker of her day. A legendary gardener, though she had no formal training, she designed the White House Rose Garden during the Kennedy administration, as well as the gardens at Oak Spring Farms, her home in Virginia; her properties in Antigua; Cape Cod; and Nantucket. In addition, she created the design for Yves Saint Laurent’s gardens in France. But beyond that, she was a great homemaker. She had an unparalleled style in creating interiors in her houses, which were a balance of priceless French furniture, straw baskets, and a large collection of paintings by Mark Rothko. While her gardening endeavors have been well documented in previous books, Bunny Mellon Style, takes an insider’s view into her personal style and philosophy on decorating, art, fashion, and jewelry. It is simply a “don’t miss” for any design aficionado, young or old.

DECEMBER 2021 |

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OAK SPRING PHOTO COURTESY OF THOMAS LLOYD. BOOK COVER:

Bunny Mellon at her Oak Spring Farm in Upperville,Virginia.

Style Lessons

ARCHITECTURAL ART

WHAT DOES an architect and university professor do in his spare time? (We are begging the question of how he has spare time, but still.) If he’s John Eck, he creates ceramics. In a wonderful blend of free-flowing creativity and meticulous sculptural design, Eck’s pieces are the perfect balance of modern simplicity with a dash of engaging color. His Instagram feed @rafter.e.studio is the best place to be in the know about upcoming studio sales. All I can say is you won’t want to miss. johneck.com

DECEMBER 2021 |

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words by

Rachel Murphy

photo by

Amanda Reamer

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Jim Nantz

ansas City is a sports town. Even when we’re losing, we’re cheering. It defines us and endears us to the cadre of national personalities that come with professional league play. It’s certainly something that has impressed Jim Nantz, three-time Emmy winner and five-time National Sportscaster of the Year. Nantz is a frequent guest in Kansas City and has a soft spot for the Chiefs. But don’t we all? Nantz is one of those rare talents that can do it all—he was famously the first sportscaster to call the Super Bowl, NCAA Men’s Final Four, and the Masters, all in 63 days. He topped himself in 2019 and 2021 when he called the AFC Championship, Super Bowl, Final Four, Masters, and PGA Championship in 120 days. This month, he’ll be inducted into the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame, just one of his many and sundry awards over the years. Nantz is a busy guy. But calling games is only one part of what he does—his entrepreneurial spirit runs almost as deep as his love of sports. In addition to sharing his father’s story in his New York Times bestseller, Always By My Side, he collaborated with Vineyard Vines on custom-designed golf apparel and founded the Nantz National Alzheimer Center at The Texas Medical Center. Much of his work outside of sports relates to his relationship with his father. Nantz has tiptoed into the world of wine. His label, The Calling, has garnered multiple scores of 90 by esteemed wine organizations, DECEMBER 2021 |

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DECEMBER 2021 |

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and their Dutton Ranch Chardonnay was ranked the 15th best wine in the world according to Wine Enthusiast. We chatted with Nantz about his love of Kansas City, how he came to the wine world, and what The Calling really means.

‘‘

What’s the most distinctive part of calling games in Kansas City? The weather. I’ve seen it all as far as the weather goes. Early season games are blazing hot and humid. But later in the year, it’s so cold in the booth. I always tell people that the air in the booth in Kansas City is an arctic chill. In those extreme times of the year, it’s colder than anywhere else in the country, including Green Bay. I’ve just frozen in there a few times. One time, I had to do a game wrapped in an electric blanket. It’s the only time I’ve done that. My hands were underneath, and I couldn’t gesture like I normally would, to emphasize words. I was just shivering too much, and the words wouldn’t come out. Why did you want to start a wine label? Whether it’s football or basketball or golf, I like to pride myself on being highly researched. I love the process of getting to know the things that I’m involved in. I love information. So for years, I watched people dabble in the celebrity wine business, put their name on a label, and then have at it. Particularly in the world of golf, which I cover 20 weeks a year, a lot of golfers have their own wine label. I really wanted to just kind of nose around a little bit. I enjoy a great bottle of wine, and I live on the road a ton more than I would like to, but that’s where the job takes me. So, my idea of a good time is working hard all day long, preparing, getting ready for whatever the event might be: a game, a golf tournament, whatever it might be. And then, at the end of the day, rewarding myself with a great dinner and a nice bottle of wine. That’s kind of life on the road for me now in my 37th year at CBS. You’ve partnered with wine expert Peter Deutsch. How did you meet and begin to collaborate? In 2009, I was on the precipice of going into the wine business a little deeper and finding an opportunity to try and develop a business plan. And I was heading into New York to meet with the owner and publisher of Wine Spectator magazine. On the eve of that meeting with Marvin, I was at a restaurant in Greenwich, Connecticut, and DECEMBER 2021 |

People

aren’t drawn to wines with a celebrity status attached to them. Wines should be handcrafted, and that’s something best left to the experts.”

Your wines are called The Calling. Why choose to omit your name from the label? One of the first questions that Peter asked me was what I wanted to call my brand. I had done my research and knew that putting my name on it would actually hurt the viability of the brand. People aren’t drawn to wines with a celebrity status attached to them. Wines should be handcrafted, and that’s something best left to the experts. And Peter said right off the bat that that was the correct answer. So why The Calling? It was important to come up with a name that reflected what was in our hearts. Some people say it’s because I’m calling the Chiefs game on Sunday, and yeah, that’s kind of a cool little tie to it, but it’s really about finding your calling. What are you meant to do? What do you really want to accomplish? Do you care? Do you set goals? Are you driven to succeed? What is your calling? I have a lot of callings. I want to be the best father in the world. I want to be the best husband. I want to be a great friend to all my friends. I want to be the best sports commentator 70 | INKANSASCITY.COM

photo by john paul filo/cbs

Nantz in the booth with Tony Romo.

a gentleman came by the table and introduced himself. It was Peter Deutsch, and he had just read a book that I had authored about my father called, Always by My Side. It wasn’t really a sports book; it was about relationships. Anyway, Peter stopped by the table to say he had just finished it. He said, ‘I’ve never had a chance to meet you, but I feel like I know you.’ And I said, ‘Well, tell me what business you’re in. And he said he was in the wine business. ‘My family were importers, creators, marketers, and distributors of wine brands from around the world and the US for 30 years.’ I said, ‘Well, that’s fate. I’m actually about to explore going into your world a little bit.’ I told Marvin Shank, the editor of Wine Spectator magazine, about our chance meeting, and he said, “That’s the guy you should team up with.”

Nantz with business partner Peter Deutsch.

photo by amanda reamer

I can be. I want to be successful in the wine business, in the golf apparel business. I want to defeat Alzheimer’s and be a part of the winning partnership that one day figures out a treatment and ultimately a cure for this insidious disease. I feel like I’m on this planet to pursue all of these calls. Right? And I wake up every day trying to figure out how to do it. I pursue it. It takes energy and a vision. You’ve got to go for it. And that’s how I live my life. And that is why we call it the calling. Unlike many celebrity wines, The Calling isn’t just a label. Your team is sourcing grapes and creating award-winning wines. How did you decide to dive in that deep? The Deutsch Family Wine and Spirits had never produced wine—they had imported it, marketed it, and distributed it. And they were hugely successful. I asked Peter to go into business with me outside of the family business. He thought about it for a while and came back and said, ‘Let’s do this.’ It took a sports commentator to convince him to go into the production side. So now we had to line up sourcing; we weren’t going to go buy dirt. We were going to buy grapes, lease vines, and we were going to source our juice. So, we made trips out to California. We had certain places earmarked that we knew were top-tier and iconic vendors, and an association with them would really help our brand launch. So thankfully, DECEMBER 2021 |

we found Dutton Ranch in Russian River Valley. We came across the country to visit with the Duttons, and we made our pitch, and lo and behold, we got on their property. We became the 15th brand that was sourced there at the time. And we got a little bit of production, and it helped us tell our story. We just finished our tenth harvest. We are the number one partner and producer at Dutton ranch. What’s next for The Calling? Our five-year plan is very exciting. Peter and I both believe in the same thing. We want to do this not because we have to do this–our lives don’t depend on it. We’re doing this because we want to spend the time and have the passion, and we’re going to put it toward building something special. We don’t want to be just another brand out there. That wouldn’t be worth the effort. If you don’t, if you don’t have the goal and objective to be the best, to create one of the iconic wine brands in America, why get involved? So, when we got together and started noodling, so to speak, over how we would put this together and what we wanted to accomplish, we kept getting back to that idea that we wanted to create the next great American premium wine brand. And here we are, at the end of our first decade, and it’s grown so fast. Interview condensed and minimally edited for clarity. 71 | INKANSASCITY.COM

WORDS BY

Kelsey Cipolla

Delish Dishes to Warm Up Cold Winter Nights PLUNGING TEMPERATURES HAVE US CRAVING RICH, COMFORTING FARE. THESE COZY FAVORITES FROM AROUND KANSAS CITY ARE SURE TO WARM YOU UP, INSIDE AND OUT

WESTSIDE MAC & CHEESE from The Westside Local Every bowl of Westside Mac & Cheese starts with the same core ingredients—cavatappi pasta in a bechamel sauce with white cheddar, Parmesan, and smoked gouda that give it an authentically cheesy, not overly processed, taste, topped with a sprinkle of garlic breadcrumbs. But then things get interesting: The Westside Local offers a long list of add-ons, from your basics like bacon and chicken to Beyond Meat sausage, Brussel sprouts, kale, and even Cajun pork belly with sauteed peppers and onions. 1663 Summit Street | thewestsidelocal.com

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CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE POTPIE from Pot Pie With its flaky crust, rich, creamy sauce and hearty chunks of chicken and veggies, this individual potpie from—where else?—Westport’s Pot Pie covers all of the bases and scores a home run when you’re in the mood for a helping of unpretentious, homestyle cooking. The restaurant’s atmosphere is worth braving the cold to dine inside, but no one could fault you for grabbing an order to go, especially if it’s one of the family-sized pot pies. 904 Westport Road | kcpotpie.com

CINNAMON ROLLS from Tin Pan Cinnamon Rolls Let’s be honest: There’s not a bad season to enjoy a fresh-from-the-oven cinnamon roll, but the soft, tender dough and globs of sugary glaze hit differently when the temperature dips. While there are plenty of great options around town, Tin Pan Cinnamon Rolls are a standout for both its convenience—still warm rolls are delivered to your door by the pan—and flavor. Owner Dan Edwards makes cinnamon the star, not just a supporting player, with a blend of Saigon and Ceylon cinnamons. tinpankc.com

BURNT END CHILI from Woodyard Bar-B-Que You know something is probably good when you can purchase it by the quart. That holds true for Woodyard’s three-bean chili, which is packed with pleasant spice— and that’s before it’s topped with a heaping helping of burnt ends. It’s a beautiful, meaty marriage of flavor and texture capable of stealing the show from more traditional barbecue dishes. The chili is available in 6-, 12- and 18-ounce portions or by the quart, as well as through Woodyard’s burnt end chili family special, a full pan of the delicious dish with cornbread muffins, cheese, and crackers that feeds four to six. 3001 Merriam Lane woodyardbbq.com

PHO DO BIEN from Vietnam Café With its lengthy list of phos, plus clear and egg noodle soups, Columbus Park’s Vietnam Café boasts tons of menu items that’ll fill you with much needed warmth (and spice, if you’re so inclined). But we’re partial to the pho do bien, a massive bowl of steaming broth and rice noodles topped with shrimp, mussels, squid, and imitation crab meat. Each bite offers a little something different, and the seafood’s natural sweetness works beautifully with the deeply flavored soup. 522 Campbell Street | vientamcafekc.com DECEMBER 2021

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CHICKEN AND ANDOUILLE GUMBO from Mudbug Cajun Po’Boys

POZOLE VERDE from Port Fonda Port Fonda’s pozole verde delivers an extra dose of heat, courtesy of a tomatillo broth that packs a spicy punch. But it’s not so fiery as to drown out the other ingredients at play, which include tender chunks of green chile-marinated pork shoulder and hominy. Crunchy garnishes and fried egg round out the dish, which is available in a full- or half-sized portion—appropriate, since the pozole is surprisingly filling. 4141 Pennsylvania Avenue | portfonda.com

Maybe it’s a side effect of envisioning how much warmer it probably is in Louisiana right now, but everything on Mudbug’s menu makes us feel about ten degrees toastier, particularly the chicken and andouille gumbo. Available as a side or by the bowl, the food truck turned Northland restaurant’s take on the classic Cajun dish is bursting with deeply developed flavors and chunks of chicken and sausage. Served with rice, it’s rivaled only by its fellow soups on the menu—the equally sublime seafood jambalaya and red beans and rice. 3524 NE Vivion Road | mudbugmobilemadness.com

MISOMUSHROOM BOWL

from Cultivare KC

Winter foods don’t have to be dense and indulgent to be delicious. Take, for instance, Cultivare’s miso-mushroom bowl. Quinoa serves as the base of this tasty grain bowl, while kale, beets, and sweet potato add a dose of nutrition. Sesame yuzu mushrooms and savory granola—made with pistachios, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, tahini, and agave—add umami and crunch. Drizzle with the salty-sweet maple miso dressing and you have an easy lunch or dinner that feels of the season, sans any guilt. 13366 Metcalf Avenue | cultivarekc.com

CARAMEL APPLE PIE

from The Upper Crust Pie Bakery Two fall favorites come together into one practically perfect pie at The Upper Crust, where the long list of offerings includes the fan-favorite caramel apple. The bakery’s signature all-butter crust is filled with a cinnamon apple base, then topped with a luscious homemade caramel sauce and a hearty helping of pecans for a version of the basic fruit pie that delivers a little more texture and salty sweetness. Be sure to order early if you have your sights set on one of these treats for the holiday season. 7943 Santa Fe Drive | uppercrustpiebakery.com DECEMBER 2021

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BRAISED BEEF SHORT RIBS

from Farina

Meat and potatoes form the cornerstone of many amazing winter dishes. One of our favorite applications? Farina’s beautifully tender braised beef short ribs served with mashed potatoes, mushrooms, and green beans. Although it may not be the most inventive dish you’ll find on the restaurant’s menu, Chef Michael Smith’s finesse helps make the seemingly simple dish sing. Each ingredient tastes like the best, truest version of itself—and with such hearty fare, that post-meal satisfaction sticks around all night, no midnight snack required. 19 West 19th Street | farinakc.com

LASAGNA AL FORNO

HOT CHOCOLATE from Christopher Elbow Chocolates Shocking, we know, but the mastermind behind KC’s most acclaimed chocolates also makes a pretty mean hot chocolate at the company’s Crossroads shop. Unlike the many syrupy sweet versions, Christopher Elbow’s take is thick, rich, and shows off the full depth of flavor good chocolate can have, with a hint of vanilla to mellow out the cocoa’s bitterness. Best of all? You can share the love, even with those who aren’t in the area—a variety of drinking chocolate mixes are available for purchase. 1819 McGee Street | elbowchocolates.com

PARADISE BACON GRILLED CHEESE

from Jasper’s Italian Restaurant

from Best Regards Bakery and Café

Sheets of pasta layered with slow-simmered tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and ground Italian sausage make for a lasagna that sticks to your ribs (in the best way) at Jasper’s. The dish is made using an old family recipe, and it shows. The end result—creamy, melted cheese melding with the bright tomato sauce—is classic and comforting and largely without frills. Because why would you mess with perfection? 1201 West 103rd Street | jasperskc.com

Toasty bread and melty cheese are two ingredients that automatically pique our interest any time of year, but especially during fall and winter—so this list wouldn’t be complete without a grilled cheese. At Best Regards, Robert Duensing levels up the simple sandwich with Havarti and extra-sharp cheddar and chopped up slices of Paradise Locker’s thick-cut slices Berkshire bacon for a super satisfying dish that pairs effortlessly with a cup of tomato soup. 6759 West 119th Street | makethemsmile.com

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Sincerely Yours, Darryl Burton OF THE 600 LETTERS DARRYL BURTON WROTE FROM JAIL, ONE WOULD FREE HIM FROM HIS WRONGFUL MURDER SENTENCE. ANOTHER WOULD FREE HIS SOUL

WORDS BY

Katie Van Luchene

‘‘I’m

PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRYL BURTON

glad to be here,” Darryl Burton begins his presentation at Leawood’s Church of the Resurrection. “But then, after what I’ve been through, I’m glad to be anywhere.” He delivers the line with the smooth timing of a seasoned public speaker as the audience chuckles. The laughter stops as he continues his story that could be a movie script. With passion and sincerity, the man behind the pulpit shares vivid details of rage and injustice, violence, and fear. Like many good movies, this one has a happy ending. Fifteen minutes after he starts speaking, the crowd rises as one to applaud the man who served 24 years in prison for a murder he didn’t commit. At age 22, Darryl Burton was enrolled in college with a vow to give his 7-month-old daughter a better life than he’d had. The middle child of nine, he’d been raised by his mother and grandmother. His parents had divorced, and he rarely saw his father. Those dreams of a future were dashed when he was arrested for shooting a drug dealer not far from his mother’s house in Ferguson, Missouri. There was no evidence—only the testimony of two men who said they’d seen Burton at the scene. Burton met with his court-appointed defense lawyer once. The jury took just one hour to deliver a guilty verdict and Burton was sentenced to 50 years

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without parole plus 25 years. “I was filled with rage,” Burton remembers of those first days of incarceration in Missouri State Penitentiary, called the bloodiest 47-acres in America for its brutality. “I hated everyone; the men who’d lied on the stand, the judge, the corrupt prosecutors, and my public defender.” But Burton channeled that rage into the goal of getting released. He spent hours in the law library, learning a new language of legalese and writing letters to individuals and groups, from senators, presidents, and congressional leaders to newspapers, television stations, and Oprah Winfrey. But there was one letter that changed his life. “My mother and grandmother were very religious,” he says, “but when I was a teen, I told my grandmother I no longer wanted to go to church. She said, ‘Someday, Darryl, you’ll need Jesus Christ. And I hope you remember to call on Him.’” Ten years after incarceration he recalled his grandmother’s words and wrote this letter.

Dear Jesus Christ, If you’re real, then you know like I know I’m innocent. So, if you help me get out of this place, not only will I serve you, but I’ll tell the world about you. Sincerely, Darryl Burton

He reread the letter often; at the same time, he began reading the New Testament. One teaching was hard to accept. “Jesus said we must forgive our enemies. And at first, I grudgingly forgave them through clenched teeth. Little by little, I released that hatred, and it freed my heart.” His fellow inmates and even guards noticed changes in Darryl. He was calm, even smiling, despite his situation. “I was no longer in prison emotionally,” he recalls. “I’d found peace.” Now he had to obtain his physical freedom. An inmate told him about Cheryl Pilate, a Kansas City-based lawyer who’d helped wrongly accused men and women go free through Centurion Ministries in Princeton, NJ. This national nonprofit, founded by James McCloskey in 1980, has freed 63 men and women serving life or death sentences for crimes they did not commit. Cheryl Pilate accepted Burton’s collect call and asked him to send a letter detailing his circumstances. While the team at Centurion agreed he had a viable argument, their backlog of clients meant it could be

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ten years before they could take on his case. Burton continued to write letters to the group, urging them not to forget him. In all, it was nearly a two-decade-long process that would lead to his exoneration. THE WRONG MAN Burton was teased as a kid for his ebony complexion. “I was darker than my siblings and school mates. They called me ‘Light’s Out’ and worse,” he recalls. Now the childhood embarrassment would become a blessing. Centurion investigators located the gas station attendant who’d witnessed the crime decades before. The witness described a man who had light-to-medium colored skin. “You have the wrong man,” she would tell anyone who listened, but her testimony wasn’t allowed at the initial trial. Centurion brought the woman to Missouri to testify on his behalf. “It was a miracle,” Burton says, “that after all these years she was still alive and willing to help right this wrong.” Based on her accounting and other findings by the legal team, Burton was exonerated in 2004. He remembers his release on August 29, 2008, as surreal. “When the warden told me I was getting out, I didn’t believe him. I’d had so many dead ends before and experienced defeat after defeat,” he said. But this time it was true. “Within a few minutes,” Burton says, “it seemed like the whole prison knew I was being released. I remember standing in the control center in front of a plate-glass window overlooking the floors of jail cells. The guards must have opened them because inmates were out there, cheering, waving, thumping their chests, giving me signs of prayers. “It was like I was in a trance,” he recalls as he walked through the last two doors leading to freedom. “Later I was told I began chanting, ‘praise God’ over and over.” If time stood still during his years in prison, the outside world had continued to evolve. He experienced the first of many changes—from subtle to significant—as his legal team drove him to his mother’s house, seat belts, speed limits, cell phones. That Friday afternoon the small group stopped at a TGIF restaurant to celebrate. “When I learned the name stood for Thank God it’s Friday, I thought it was a good sign.” As he sat in the booth, overwhelmed by the vast menu, Cheryl Pilate asked what he wanted for his first restaurant meal after more than two decades. Steak? A hamburger? Barbecue? A beer? Burton ordered a salad. As a vegetarian, in jail that meant a wedge of iceberg lettuce with no dressing. Now it was a luxury to be served a plate piled high with greens and vegetables with ranch dressing. And when he took his first bite of a mozzarella stick, he wondered out loud who would ever think about deep frying cheese. He might just learn to like this new world. STARTING OVER The legal world had dealt Burton an unfair sentence, and now—even after his release, it worked against him. Because his exoneration wasn’t based on DNA evidence, he wasn’t due compensation for his time in jail. That meant he was released with no money, no promise of a job, no training. He was on his own.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRYL BURTON

It would take him two years to find a paying job. He’d been volunteering at Catholic Charities, a group that helps people start over with housing and resources. “I was sweeping floors, cleaning up, anything I could do,” he says. Then the organization created a new position for him. As a re-entry coordinator, Burton helped others navigate the difficulties of life outside of prison. “One of the first obstacles is getting valid identification,” he says. “A social-security card, a driver’s license. The first steps to a new life.” Burton realizes he’s one of the lucky ones. The United States has one of the world’s highest recidivism rates. According to a 2021 report by the Harvard Political Review, 76.6 percent of inmates are rearrested within five years of release. To help others get out and stay out of jail, Burton founded Miracle of Innocence (miracleoﬁnnocence. org) with Lamonte McIntyre, a man who was exonerated in 2017 after serving 23 years for a crime he didn’t commit. The organization assists with legal resources, exoneree care including housing, transportation, job training, and physical and mental health needs. “Our aim is to educate communities about injustice and to help innocent prisoners not just gain release but reenter life outside of jail successfully,” said Burton. He brings up Kevin Stickland, whose story is getting ample coverage in the news. “If he gets out— and he should—after 40 years, the world is going to be all new to him. He will have a network of people ready to help, including Miracle of Innocence.”

Burton with his well-worn Bible.

PROMISES KEPT Some people pray for a miracle and once it happens, they forget any promises they made to a higher power. Burton made good on his vow to tell the world about Jesus the day after his release. That first evening at his mother’s house was overwhelming as he was surrounded by family members and friends he hadn’t seen in decades. By the next day, he knew he had to get away. Away from the noise, the excitement, away from the city that meant unfairness to him. He hitched a ride to Columbia, Missouri, with a pastor he’d met in prison. When asked to tell his story in front of his friend’s congregation, he found his voice. Since then, Burton has honed his delivery. He speaks with eloquence and humility, sometimes adding humor as a break from the horrors he’s seen. He speaks in front of civic organizations and legal groups, in biker bars and massive auditoriums around the world. His message is one of hope and forgiveness. At one Olathe high school, he described how telling untruths can have life-changing consequences. Now he has an official pulpit. In May, 2016, Burton graduated from Saint Paul School of Theology in Kansas. He is now an associate pas-

DECEMBER 2021

tor at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood. Karen Lampe, the church’s former executive pastor of congregational care, calls him an amazing gift. “I think he wants to make up for lost time,” she says. FAMILY MAN Burton now feels blessed in ways he could not have considered possible two decades ago. He has reunited with the daughter he left when she was just an infant, and is married to Valerie, a woman he praises for her compassion and joy. “I’ve never met anyone with such a happy spirit,” he says. Theirs is a blended family with his daughter and three from her first marriage. They have nine grandchildren. His blessings continue. Along with his pastorship at Church of the Resurrection, volunteer work at Catholic Charities and the Don Bosco Charter High School, and busy speaking schedule, Burton is writing an autobiography (find out more at darrylburton.org). And if his life story seems like a movie script, he’s already received inquiries about making a film.

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Casato 18k white-gold diamond bracelet from Mazzarese Jewelry (Parkway Plaza).

’tis the eason to

S Dazzle FROM SUBTLE SPARKLE TO ALL-OUT GLITZ, GREAT GIFTS FOR YOUR SPECIAL SOMEONE

14k yellow-gold bar cuff bracelet from Meierotto Jewelers (North Kansas City).

Diamond bracelet in 18k yellow gold from Meierotto Jewelers.

18k rose-gold and ruby bangle accented by brilliant round diamonds from Diamonds Direct (Camelot Court Shopping Center).

Diamond and gold bangle from Lilliane’s Jewelry (Leawood).

18k rose gold diamond X bangle by TIVOL (Country Club Plaza and Hawthorne Plaza).

Yvan Tufenkjian Okta baguette diamond bracelet in 18k white gold from Mazzarese Jewelry.

Beautiful Bangles photos by

Aaron Leimkuehler

Elegant Necklaces

A. Link diamond necklace in 18k white gold from Mazzarese Jewelry.

Diamond and 14k yellow-gold paperclip link necklace from Meierotto Jewelers.

Assael Akoya pearl and diamond thorn sprig necklace from TIVOL.

Diamond necklace in 14k white gold from Meierotto Jewelers.

14k yellow-gold bolo pendant featuring brilliant round diamonds from Diamonds Direct.

Diamond and14k white gold cluster rivière from Diamonds Direct.

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Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti Collection 18k rose gold with diamonds ring from TIVOL.

Tanzanite and diamond ring from Lilliane’s Jewelry. Yellow sapphire and diamond ring from Lilliane’s Jewelry.

Cocktail ring with London blue topaz in the center and blue topaz side stones from Diamonds Direct.

Flexible diamond ring in 18k white and rose gold from Meierotto Jewelers.

Remarkable Rings

Diamond ring in 14k white gold from Meierotto Jewelers.

Statement band adorned with yellow diamonds and brilliant round diamonds from Diamonds Direct.

Stephen Webster diamond and turquoise Crystal Haze cocktail ring in 18k white gold from Mazzarese Jewelry.

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Gold and diamond ring from Pendleton Jewelry (West Plaza).

Above, top: Filary green patina and gold Italia coin pendant with 24k yellow-gold over sterling-silver chain from DelBrenna Jewelry (Crestwood). Above, middle: White and black diamond pendant from Lilliane’s Jewelry. Above, bottom: 14k yellow-gold pendant with turquoise and diamonds on an adjustable chain from Meierotto Jewelers.

Andrea Fohrman14k yellow-gold large crescent moon rainbow moonstone with star diamond center pendant on adjustable chain from Pendleton Jewelry.

Charming Pendants Left, from left to right: 14k white-gold statement pendant featuring chocolate diamonds and accented with diamonds from Diamonds Direct. Mother of pearl and diamond necklace in 14k rose gold from Meierotto Jewelers. 18k yellow paperclip chain necklace with celestial tag from Mazzarese Jewelry.

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Exquisite Earrings Sapphire and diamond earrings from Lilliane’s Jewelry.

Diamond and 14k rose-gold circle swirl earrings from Diamonds Direct.

14k white-gold drop earrings with blue sapphires and diamonds from Diamonds Direct.

Sorellina 18k yellow-gold drop earrings with white diamonds, white opal, black onyx, emerald, pink, green, and blue sapphires, and imperial topaz from Pendleton Jewelry.

Diamond and 18k white-gold multiple star earrings from Meierotto Jewelers.

Stephen Webster 3D diamond Thorn earrings in 18k white gold from Mazzarese Jewelry.

Marco Bicego 18k yellowgold Lunaria Collection earrings from TIVOL.

DelBrenna signature 925 silver hammered beads with antique gold finish from DelBrenna Jewelry.

Cufflinks in 925 silver with antique gold finish from DelBrenna Jewelry.

Black onyx and diamond cuff links by Mazzarese Jewelry.

Omega 18k rose gold and steel Constellation watch from Mazzarese Jewelry.

Men’s diamond bracelet in 14k yellow gold from Meierotto Jewelers.

Black tungsten men’s band with white ceramic on the interior from Diamonds Direct.

David Yurman curb chain ID bracelet with pavé black diamonds from TIVOL.

For the Fellas

Muramasa tungsten ring from Lilliane’s Jewelry.

DECEMBER 2020

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In the living room of Lorraine and Leigh Elmore’s Brookside home, the Christmas tree is aglow with lights and the warm reds and cool blues of their vintage Czechoslovakian ornaments.

We’ll Have a Blue Christmas A BROOKSIDE HOME IS TRANSFORMED FOR THE HOLIDAY

words by photos by

Patricia O’Dell Aaron Leimkuehler

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One of the Elmores’ dogs, Justice, takes advantage of the rare opportunity to settle into the down cushion of the sofa. Classically framed prints from Parrin & Co. flank the window.

orraine Colbert Elmore had a long career at Hallmark as a designer, photo stylist, art director, and studio manager. During her tenure she decorated a lot of Christmas trees, but it hasn’t soured her on the process. She and her husband, Leigh, still delight in dressing their home for the holidays. “I’ve decorated a lot of Christmas trees in my life,” she says. “As a photo stylist at Hallmark, three quarters of the year was devoted to Christmas.” Now decorating their home in Brookside for the holiday may not take as long, but the Elmores certainly dedicate time and care to getting it right. Their classic style is restrained but features the perfect amount of gilt and glow. Lorraine Elmore has been collecting pre-1940’s Czechoslovakian Christmas ornaments for decades. “They’re beautiful, but they’re so interesting,” she says of the old-world, pink, turquoise, green, blue, and gold glass ornaments. “There’s Red Riding Hood, but also Joan of Arc.

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I still look for them, but I haven’t found any in a long time.” The Elmores have lived in the home for 26 years. They’d had their eye on another house nearby but couldn’t commit. It was during the holidays and they decided to wait until after Christmas to decide. Driving by one evening to see if it was still available, they discovered a new house on the market. It became their current home. “We saw this house and made an offer two days later,” Leigh says. It was love at first sight, and they’ve taken their time to make it their own in a way that doesn’t fight with the house’s original design. The center hall features a classic painted check on the floor and dramatic dark walls, with crystal sconces and a vintage mirror that lends a flash of sparkle. The stunning, difficult-to-name blue of the living room provides the perfect background for their art and accessories, which often feature a dose of black and the gleam of gilt. The drawings flanking the front window in the living room are by the late Daniel MacMorris. Lorraine 88 | INKANSASCITY.COM

Above: Drawings by the late Daniel MacMorris, a local artist known for his murals, frame a window. Alabaster bowls are brimming with antique silver ornaments. Right, top: The front hall glitters and glows thanks to vintage marble lamps, crystal sconces, and the cutglass mirror. Right, below: The view from the breakfast room into the front hall. On the right, a collection of vintage gilt-and-velvet framed illustrations of the rules of grammar are gathered on a pale blue ribbon.

found the nude studies at Parrin & Co., which is one of her favorites spots to shop. MacMorris studied at the Kansas City Art Institute and painted several murals in town, including scenes of Kansas City at the downtown Kansas City Library, ceilings at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and the murals at the World War I museum. The mural on the dining room walls is a work of art itself. The chalky painting has the grace and movement of a fine damask. They had seen something similar commissioned by the local designer Marie Smith of MLB Designs. “The artist drew the pattern on paper, then put little pinholes along the lines. Then he put the paper against the wall and blew chalk dust through the holes to create the pattern. It was amazing,” Lorraine says. She credits Smith for many of the smart and beautiful modifications she and Leigh have made on the home. Smith helped with their kitchen remodel. “Marie was great. She was able to redesign the kitchen without changing the footprint, but she made it much

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In the dining room, the stunning mural was created by a local artist. The couple bought the chandelier from the long-shuttered Harzfeld’s department store downtown. Right top: The renovation of the kitchen allowed for space behind the sink that they refer to as “the winter garden.” Right bottom: The update, with its crisp white cabinets, subway tile, and stainless pulls and appliances, work seamlessly with the age of the house.

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Opposite page: Mercury glass lamps provide a little sparkle, as do the seasonal snowflake pillows in the primary bedroom. Lorraine defines the color of the walls as “the color of a stormy ocean.” Above: The antique armoire holds the couple’s television. Left: Crisp black accents, subway tile, and classic faucet and fittings create an updated bath that fits seamlessly in the Elmores’ older home.

more functional,” Lorraine says. Among other space-saving tweaks, Smith pulled the sink forward away from the wall and created counter space in front of the kitchen window. “I love this space!” Lorraine says. “It’s my winter garden. It was such a simple shift, but it makes a huge difference.” Upstairs, the bedroom has received a recent update. “I just saw this new Sherwin Williams color and I had to have it,” she says. “I’m so glad I did. It’s so soothing.” She says she had no trouble going against the advice to not put your bed in front of a window. “If you live in this neighborhood, you know that it’s difficult to avoid. There are so many doors to work around!” While they are still focused on making their home warm and welcoming, they both have outside pursuits keeping them busy. Lorraine is working on a catalog for the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art on the Starr Miniatures Collection and taking a botanical illustration class through

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Treat Yourself & Your Friends This Holiday Season!

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AUGUST 2021 COM CITY. INKANSAS

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S YOU D ON’T W ANT TO MISS

GLORIOU GIFTABL S E GEMS

Holiday issue the

TASTY G IF (LITERAL TS LY!) A HISTORI MANSIO C REVIVALN’S

Southern light floods the upstairs hall, where the photo gallery creates a physical Elmore family tree.

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DECEMBER 2021 |

the Denver Botanical Garden. “When I became interested, I had to wait for a weekend seminar,” she says. “But during the pandemic, the courses became available online, which is great!” Leigh is equally busy with his work supporting the Rice-Tremonti Home, built in 1844 on the Santa Fe, Oregon and California trails. The pair plans to spend the holiday at home. “I usually make my Slovakian grandmother’s mushroom sauerkraut soup and kolaches, which you can fill with many things—honey, nuts, apricots,” Lorraine says. The holidays are about tradition, after all.

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In the Kitchen PICKLES AND FISH BY

Cody Hogan

PHOTOS BY

uring the holiday season, it’s comforting to be prepared for surprise visitors or unexpected invitations by having a beautiful and tasty dish you can quickly and easily assemble. Pickled foods fit the bill in this situation, and pickled beets, eggs, and mustard seeds garnishing a platter of cured or smoked salmon is sure to please just about everyone. First, let’s talk about cured salmon. The reason we love it (either cured or cold smoked), is that because the fish has not been exposed to heat, all of its fat is still intact—anyone who has ever grilled a piece of salmon knows how much fat typically comes out when it cooks. Because flavor molecules travel on fat molecules, uncooked salmon tastes delicious (and that explains why we love fatty foods in general). Smoked salmon can be either cold or hot-smoked. Hot-smoked salmon has been smoked at a high enough temperature that it actually cooks—you can tell by the pale, cooked color, and you will see white congealed protein (albumin) around the edges. Cold-smoked salmon is cured first, then smoked at a low temperature. Lox is another name for brine-cured salmon, and you find it both smoked and not. When buying cured salmon, in most cases you get what you pay for. If it seems especially cheap, it is probably not of the best quality. For those so inclined, it is quite simple to cure salmon at home and gives you something to do with that whole side of salmon you bought at Costco but don’t want to cook all at once.* As for pickled garnishes for the salmon, one of my favorite companions to the luscious fish is pickled mustard seed (mustard in any form, really)—but other pickled foods play equally well. Eggs and onions are a traditional companion to cured salmon, so why not pickle those, too? Beets for festive color—why not? The quick pickle technique below works on many foods, especially if they are cut into smaller pieces. Whether you cure your own salmon and pickle your mustard, beets, and eggs, or buy good quality smoked salmon, some gherkins and gourmet mustard, with this flavorful combination of pickles and fish, you’ll be ready for any festive occasion this season. Salmon with Pickled Beets, Eggs, and Mustard Seeds Begin by roasting a few beets (this can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half depending on the size of the beets: wash beets, wrap in a piece of foil and roast in a 400F oven until tender enough to pierce with a fork). While they roast, pickle the mustard seeds. In a small saucepan, combine one half cup mustard seeds (yellow, brown, or mixed, see Pantry), one cup water, one cup white vinegar (or white wine, rice, or apple cider DECEMBER 2021 |

Aaron Leimkuehler

vinegar—the tastier the better), one quarter cup sugar and a heaping teaspoon of salt. salt Bring everything to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, until the consistency is thick and syrupy and when you taste a few seeds, they are resistant but tender and “pop” between the teeth, much like caviar. Think about the taste—if you would like it to be sweeter, add a bit more sugar, or more vinegar, salt, etc. While the beets and seeds are cooking, prepare the hard-boiled eggs by placing a few eggs in a pot covered by one inch of water, and bring them to a boil. As soon as they come to a boil, turn off the heat and let them sit for exactly ten minutes. Check in on the mustard seeds every now and again to make sure they don’t dry out and scorch. After ten minutes, immediately rinse the eggs and peel them. You should have perfectly hard-boiled eggs with no trace of green ring around the yolk and whites that are tender. Next, make the pickling solution for the eggs and beets. My favorite brine is what I think of as my “bread and butter” profile, tangy but with a generous hint of sweetness to balance the spice, which I tweak according to the situation. First, thinly slice half an onion, lightly salt it, and set it aside. In saucepan, combine one cup water, water 2 cups apple cider (or other good) vinegar, one teaspoon of salt, one heaping tablespoon of mustard seed, two allspice berries, one teaspoon black peppercorns, 2 cloves of garlic and a big pinch of crushed red pepper ﬂakes. Bring all of this to a boil and simmer for ten minutes. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool. When the beets are tender, slice or dice them, then combine with the cooled brine, the sliced onion (now wilted and a little salty), and the eggs. The hard part is now over. For the best looking and tasting eggs, allow them to sit in the brine with the beets for at least 24 hours. They will have a pretty pink tinge around the edges and still be tender. Over time, they will take on a deeper color, but the whites could firm up and become rubbery (although some people like that). Otherwise, everything can sit in the brine for a week or two and still be fine. To serve, arrange sliced cured or smoked salmon on a platter garnished with the sliced eggs, beets, onion, and tiny dollops of the pickled mustard seeds. This presentation is really just a springboard for a platter of cured salmon. Fennel fronds or other fresh elements like piquant greens (watercress, frisée, arugula, and Belgian endive leaves), radish, chives, or capers are all welcome substitutions or additions to this platter. Remember, the exciting aspect of pickling is the little element of surprise when you taste the finished product. With experience, you’ll learn to recreate the flavors you like best so that you can share them at your next special get together. *For home-cured salmon, take equal parts salt and sugar, combine them, and thoroughly coat a piece of salmon on all sides, wrap it tightly in plastic, put it in the fridge, and put a weight on it. It will cure in a day or two and be ready to eat. Just rinse off the cure and thinly slice. It will easily keep for a week or more. Additional ﬂavor in the form of citrus zest, basil leaves, fennel fronds or even anise liqueur can be added to the sugar/salt mixture. Google for more details and techniques.

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In Your Pantry

MUSTARDS THERE ARE many ways to introduce the sinus-opening, palate-refreshing punch of mustard. Indian mango pickles, Italian mostarda (candied mustard-preserved fruit), horseradish, and wasabi are some of the more exotic, but the effects come from the same chemical building blocks. Despite the thousands of years mustard seeds have been used by humans as food and medicine, the technique for using these pungent grains has remained remarkably unchanged: mustard seeds are ground or crushed and mixed with liquid which converts to mustard oil. The intensity of mustard seeds is distinguishable visually—the darker the seed the more intense the flavor. Here are some mustard basics:

White/Yellow/Brown/ Black Mustard Seeds Yellow (sometimes called white) seeds are the most common, especially in Western cultures. The brown and especially the black are more intense. In addition to the color of the seeds, the amount of acidity in the liquid used to make the mustard also affects the strength and duration of the heat of the ﬁnished product. Water makes much stronger mustard than vinegar. Once the seeds are ground and combined with liquid, the mustard's intensity will soon begin to fade, unless stabilized by something acidic like vinegar.

Dijon Mustard Although not necessarily made in Dijon, France, today, the formulation of mustard standardized by Frenchman Jean Naigeon in 1865 has become a culinary staple. Brown mustard seed is mixed with a less acidic liquid (originally verjus, the acidic juice from immature grapes) giving it a pungency and heat that translate well when used in cooking, lending its mustardy ﬂavor to countless dishes. It’s also great on a hot dog if you’re looking for a little more kick than that of yellow ballpark mustard.

Whole Grain or Coarse Mustard The textural component of grainy mustard is perhaps its greatest asset. In this style of mustard, the seeds are only lightly crushed (just enough to make a paste), and any color of seed or liquid may be used, so the heat and intensity can vary greatly from brand to brand. Great for sandwiches, served with cheeses, and making an outstanding honey-mustard dressing or dip.

DECEMBER 2021 |

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Flavor

IN KC

In Your Cocktail MIRACLE KANSAS CITY HOLIDAY POP-UP BARS by

Kelsey Cipolla

here is no shortage of holiday traditions in Kansas City, from watching the lights switch on at the Country Club Plaza to lacing up your skates and hitting the ice at Crown Center. But it’s about time we had a new tradition to add to the list, don’t you think? Enter Miracle Kansas City, a Christmas-themed cocktail bar that is popping up for its fourth year in the metro and returning to the Plaza (4807 Jefferson St.), as well introducing new bars in the Power & Light District (1323 Walnut St.) and Town Center Crossing (4311 W. 119th St.). Noticeably absent from the lineup is Miracle at The Rockhill DECEMBER 2021 |

Grille, due to a recent remodel of the restaurant, but Miracle Kansas City has introduced its first private event space on Main Street to allow larger groups to enjoy holiday revels together. Miracle is brought to you locally by Rockhill Restaurant Group, which owns and operates Rockhill Grille, Rockhill Pizza, and Country Road Ice House, but the pop-up concept was originally launched in 2014 in New York City by Greg Boehm. He worked with long-time manager Joann Spiegel and bartender Nico de Soto to create a collection of holiday-themed cocktails now available at pop-ups around the world. Those drinks include favorites like the Snowball Old-Fashioned, 98 | INKANSASCITY.COM

a spicy and sweet blend of cinnamon bourbon, spiced molasses syrup, and wormwood bitters; Jingle Bell Nog, a rich combo of butter fat-washed cognac, almond milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and grated nutmeg; and the floral Christmapolitain, made with vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, and spiced cranberry sauce. And the cocktails look as good as they taste, served in an array of vessels from Santa mugs to reindeer Collins glasses. But it’s not just the spirited spirits that leave guests feeling full of holiday cheer (although that does play a big role—just try and be a humbug while Santa winks at you from the front of your friend’s mug). Miracle also boasts a more-is-more approach to its over-the-top, nostalgic décor. Nearly every available bit of space strung with a twinkling light, draped with garland, hung with an ornament or spruced up with a tree. Santa’s visage looms large, joined by a merry assembly of reindeer, snowmen, and elves beckoning you to get in on the fun. Miracle Kansas City locations opened at the end of November and are spreading cheer every day now through Dec. 26, including Christmas Day, although hours may vary by location. Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome at all three pop-ups this year. For more info, visit miraclepopupkc.com.

A spectacular, contemporary venue with transformable reception spaces and a magnificent courtyard. 1900bldg.com (913) 730–1905

‘TIS THE SEASON MIRACLE KANSAS CITY isn’t the only seasonal pop-up this month. Check out these spots for even more winter wonder. SIPPIN’ SANTA St. Nick trades the snow of the North Pole for a sandy beach at this tiki-inspired companion concept to Miracle. Created in collaboration with Tiki-connoisseur Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, guests can expect the same dedication to festivity, both in drinks and décor, but with a tropical twist while the pop-up runs throughout December at Julep. NINE ZERO ONE IGLOO BAR Take a trip north with Nine Zero One, a Scandinavianinspired concept on the roof of The Fontaine Hotel where guests can chill in cozy igloo domes while enjoying themed drinks and tapas, plus stunning views. It’s an ideal destination if you’re more into the Aurora Borealis than holiday lights.

Modern-American cuisine from award-winning Chef Linda Duerr. Chef Duerr and team present elegant fare and carefully curated menus for a variety of special occasions. therestaurantat1900.com (913) 730–1900

THE CONDUCTOR CLUB Party like it’s 1990 as The Conductor Club, Pierpont’s themed and ever-changing cocktail experience, pays tribute to Home Alone. Reservations are already selling out, so snag one quickly if you’re dreaming of a Kevin McCallister-inspired scream photo for your Instagram feed.

DECEMBER 2021 |

1900 Building 1900 Shawnee Mission Parkway Mission Woods, Kansas

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IN KC

Kelsey Cipolla

HOMEGROWN KITCHEN HOMEGROWN KITCHEN may have gotten its start in

In Culinary News

Wichita, but the restaurant is staying true to its name by sourcing ingredients from the KC metro area for its new Brookside outpost, which features Farm to Market Bread Co. breads, Messenger Coffee beans, and Scavuzzo’s meats. Despite the new names, fans of the original locations can still expect the same comforting, fresh lineup of dishes that made the restaurant a hit in its hometown. Breakfast items include the popular coffee cake with buttermilk caramel sauce; croissant French toast; and a lengthy list of pancakes, scrambles, omelets, and eggs benedict. For lunch, guests can opt for a BLT topped with avocado and a fried egg, or choose from a selection of other sandwiches, soups, and salads. homegrownkitchen.com

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Kelsey Cipolla

WINGSTAND BY JEFFERSON’S WITH ITS FRESH WINGS, burgers, and other bar favor-

In Culinary News

ites, Jefferson’s has long been an appealing spot to watch a game or grab a dinner the whole family can agree on. Now, there’s a new way to experience its food with WingStand by Jefferson’s. The colorful, modern fast-casual concept debuted this fall with a flagship location in Mission and a focus on all things chicken. In addition to traditional and boneless wings available sauced in a variety of heat levels, plus savory sauces, dry rubs, and Jefferson’s signature double-dipping, WingStand offers chicken sandwiches, tasty tenders, and a new lineup of loaded mac ‘n’ cheeses—just try to resist the KC Honey Q Mac, topped with crispy chicken, bacon bits, and green onion and drizzled with honey barbecue sauce. wingstand.com

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Kelsey Cipolla

DIOR RESTAURANT

In Culinary News

FROM-SCRATCH AMERICAN dishes and a long list of specials are on the menu at Dior Restaurant, a new Overland Park spot that opened this fall with Shaun Brady serving as executive chef. Fort Scottbased E3 Meat Co. provides the beef you’ll find in the restaurant’s signature chili, grilled angus burger, short rib stroganoff, ribeye, and filet, but there’s much more to enjoy—Dior also serves catfish with hushpuppies, Cajun pasta, chicken fingers, and fish and chips, plus soups, salads, and a dessert list that will have your sweet tooth aching to skip dinner. Stop by during happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m. daily, for $2 off Dior’s long list of cocktails, or visit Friday, Saturday, or Sunday for Wine Down Weekends, when all house wines are just $4. diorrestaurant.com

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Reservation for One CHEWOLOGY Kelsey Cipolla

hewology has come a long way—and we’re not just talking about its recent move from Lenexa’s Public Market to a dedicated space in Westport. At the restaurant’s new home, formerly the site of celebrated fine-dining establishment Bluestem, owner Katie Liu-Sung has expanded the menu, added a cocktail program, and introduced a new DECEMBER 2021 |

weekend-only experimental sister concept, Stray Kat. Although the look and feel at Chewology are more polished, the focus remains the same—delectable dishes inspired by Taiwanese street food. Illustrations of dishes like gyoza (dumplings) and bao (steamed buns) decorate the restaurant’s windows on the corner of Westport Road and Southwest Trafficway, but Chewology feels removed from the 106 | INKANSASCITY.COM

PHOTOS BY PILSEN PHOTO CO-OP

intersection’s hustle and bustle as you step inside. The intimate space includes two rooms: One features a bar where guests dine and drink under the neon pink light cast by a sign displaying the restaurant’s name, while the other offers a prime view of the open kitchen and a slightly more serene atmosphere. The same illustrations from the windows are carried over to the menu, which serves as an enchanting visual guide to Chewology’s dishes. That includes the cocktails designed by acclaimed bartender Brock Schulte. The drinks include a few reinterpretations of classics, like the Manhattan-inspired 823, which boasts a sesame oil-washed glass that lends a surprising dose of flavor, as well as some creations that feel wholly fresh. The Lambai Island Highball is made with tequila, coconut water, and kombucha, but don’t let the drink’s clear color fool you—there’s plenty of bright flavor happening within the glass. Handcrafted gyoza have been a big part of Chewology’s focus over the years, and they still make quite the impression, from the more traditionally flavored pork and cabbage version to the decadent honey apricot goat-cheese variation that could almost serve double duty as a dessert. While all the offerings are impressive, the beef and kimchi stand out for their bold filling, which balances the acidity and richness of its ingredients to create parcels of perfection. The dumplings come six per order and make for an ideal appetizer or late-night snack, as do the bao. Served in three different iterations—

fried chicken, tofu, and pork belly—they’re packed with character and are a filling steal at $5 or less each. We’re partial to the karaage bao, chunks of Taiwanese-style fried chicken with a paper thin, crispy coating alongside house pickles, basil, and chile mayo, all sandwiched between pillow-soft steamed buns. Chewology also serves up a selection of rice and noodle dishes, including a poke bowl and lu rou fan, pork belly braised until it has the texture of a ragu and served over brown rice with pickled English cucumber and pineapple. Although it appears simple at first glance, flavor overflows from the bowl, with the spiced meat and funky pickles taking you on a flavor journey. The Dan Dan (spicy peanut ramen) is also a hit: The yolk of a poached egg provides a rich, silky sauce for the dish that’s a little sweet, spicy, salty, and utterly satisfying. And vegan diners should be sure to try the three-cup mushroom ramen, which features a deeply flavored mushroom and basil broth. As the evening winds down, guests may have to turn to the cocktail list to satisfy their dessert cravings—tonight, Chewology has already sold out of its intricately designed moon cakes. Better luck next time. And there will, inevitably, be a next time. Chewology is that rare restaurant with a cool factor that makes you want to recommend it to anyone and everyone, and the quality and consistency to keep you coming back visit after visit. chewologykc.com

VIEW TOP PROPERTIES IN KANSAS CITY In Partnership with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes ®

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We are working with some of Kansas City’s real estate agents to keep you in the know on some of the most exciting houses on the market.

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Check it out at inkansascity.com/home-design/real-estate © 2021 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED FRANCHISE. Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC and used with permission Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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Castle or Condo, City or Lake, Big or Small,

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Faces

IN KC

photos by brian rice

Crestwood Shops 100 Year Anniversary THE CRESTWOOD SHOPS celebrated their 100th anniversary with a grand, three-day bash October 7 through 9. Shop owners celebrated with 1920’s costumes, shopping specials, a bit of retail history, and a raucous street party on Saturday. For more photos go to inkansascity.com/events-photos.

SME Renovation Sensation Home Tour 2021 REN SEN 2021 was celebrated at the lovely home of Jamie Crosbie Bisson and Shane Bisson on September 21. The homes tour, chaired this year by Jennifer Newman and Bridgid Noblit, raises funds for the Shawnee Mission East SHARE program.For more photos go to inkansascity.com/events-photos.

DECEMBER 2021

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Kemper Gala 2021: ARTBEAT OUR OWN MAN ABOUT TOWN, Damian

Lair, co-chaired this year’s gala with Emily Fehsenfeld. The ARTBEAT theme tied into two of the museum’s current exhibits, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s Pulse Topology and Aliza Nisenbaum’s Aqui Se Puede. Attire was “exuberant party wear,” and guests delivered. It was a party! Incredible food, great entertainment, and lots and lots of dancing. Proceeds from the event fund access to the world-class exhibitions of contemporary art and programming for all ages and abilities. For more photos go to inkansascity.com/events-photos.

Music & Lights: A Twilight Drive-In Experience SATURDAY, November 6, was the date for a

free, live drive-in concert at Town Center Plaza with music by Billboard chart climber Ashley Barron, and additional vocals by Casi Joy, Drew Six, Rusty Laffoon, Nick Nave, and Nicole Springer. LED video wall technology enhanced the performance experience. For more photos go to inkansascity.com/events-photos.

photos by brian rice

DECEMBER 2021

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My Essentials

IN KC

ANNA PETROW MULVIHILL CULINARY, LIFESTYLE, AND TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER

T PHOTO BY AMY MCDANIEL

he Kansas City-based photographer (and influencer: follow her @annapetrow) may be local but her reach is national. Her work has been published in publications such as The New York Times, Travel & Leisure, and Food & Wine. Petrow works primarily with the chefs, farmers, and local restaurateurs in the metro, and she describes her greatest passion as supporting the growth of the local spots that make our city so lively and unique. She and her husband, Patrick Mulvihill, love their Brookside neighborhood. “I love being able to walk to so many wonderful local businesses in Brookside,” she says. “We’ve had countless pastries at Heirloom, breakfast biscuits at Matties, beers at BKS Artisan Ales, patio sushi at Sayachi, and bowls of pasta at Bella Napoli.” Petrow’s favorite nonprofit, Kanbe’s Markets, ties into that passion for food. Kanbe’s is working to provide Kansas Citians living in food deserts access to healthy produce while working to cut down food waste.

Anna’s essentials... DATE NIGHT: We love going to Room 39 and ordering the tasting menu. They always work with the best local ingredients, and chef Ted Habiger was one of my very first clients, so that spot will forever hold a special place in my heart. The wine pairings are fantastic, too!

SCENT FOR HOME:

MUST-SHOP: Paradise Garden Club—

I’ve recently fallen in love with Pigeon candles. They’re sustainable, recyclable, and customizable— you can put your own message on each candle, which makes them perfect for gift giving or marking special occasions.

it’s a tropical oasis in the middle of the Crossroads, the owners are wonderful people, and they are absolutely brilliant at plant care. Have I frantically dm’ed them photos of a dying plant? Yes. Did they save it with their spot-on advice? Yes!

SATURDAY DAY OUT: It starts with a latte

PREFERRED COCKTAIL: The martini at The Campground—it’s perfectly balanced and comes with house-made salt-and-vinegar chips. Chris and Cristin have built such an inclusive, beautiful space there. It’s my top recommendation to out-of -owners and locals alike.

from Café Cà Phê, and if I really get my dream day, a smoothie from Ruby Jeans and breakfast sandwich from Happy Gillis. The brunch trifecta! I love to spend warmer days roaming around a farmers market or hanging out at Loose Park with my dog, and chillier ones poking around some antique shops or planning a delicious dinner for friends. DECEMBER 2021

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