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The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well
America’s Front Porch: Wichita Style
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Joining the ranks of apple pie, baseball, and the Hollywood Sign, the front porch enjoys a prominent place in American iconography. Its location is unique, architecturally speaking. It is an extension of the home that provides overhead shelter, and yet it remains accessible to the outdoors and the community. At once private and hospitable, it is a place where you can just as well read a book or chat with a neighbor. In celebration of our twenty-fifth issue, we offer a new perspective on this piece of Americana as well as an illustrated look back at some of our favorite front porches. Like many things in America, the concept of the front porch came to our shores from abroad. It was co-opted Continued on page 10.
Today’s front porches often reflect the changing seasons. During the fall, homeowners may furnish them with décor that catches the fiery hues of the foliage and the rich wood tones of emerging tree bark. Clockwise from upper left: 1] The red-painted deck chair on this porch adds a burst of autumnal color. It also provides a place to sit down and take in the open air and outdoor environment. In the background, a set of four chairs and a table favor casual conversation over drinks or a small meal. The absence of balusters makes the porch appear even more welcoming from the street. 2] The builders of this new Arts and Crafts home took the timeless bungalow design and kicked it up a notch. The low-pitched roofline, stained glass transom windows, and limestone columns frame an impressive, yet intimate, porch entry. 3] The quiet beauty of this Wichita home is largely due to its front porch, imbued with Southwest chic and complementary notes of Prairie Style. The grand redbrick walkway beckons you onto the covered porch, or portales, which is symmetrically flanked by wide-plank shutters, classic rough-hewn supports, low decorative native limestone banisters, a partial limestone façade, and indigenous grasses. Some lesser-used nuts shine in hearty and delicious dishes you’ll want to prepare many times during this upcoming holiday season. See page 14 for recipes.
25th Anniversary Issue
number 25
2 Peaceable Kingdom: bird feeding is a fun way to preserve the species 2 Shades of Green: private efforts strive to restore and protect city’s trees 12 Noteworthy: organization uses effective methods to teach children to read
The Front Porch Wichita
A Peaceable Kingdom
The Joy of Bird Feeding America’s popular hobby serves both nature and the soul alike.
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f you stop by Backyard Nature Center and visit with owners Nick and Cathy Clausen, you’re sure to learn plenty of reasons to feed birds. You can hear the first one in a video clip playing in their store. It’s by Droll Yankees,
Design Studio, Ltd.
A new generation in interior design services ◊
We, at Design Studio, wish to thank all our loyal friends, clients, and customers for your support of our shop over the past 33 years. Mom and I loved every minute of it. My transition to a home-based interior design business allows me more flexibility and availability to meet with clients while still providing the quality service and products you have come to expect. I offer a complete range of interior design services including new home construction consultations, space planning, fabric, furniture and rug selections, and whole-home or individual room makeovers. I look forward to helping you make your home warm, beautiful, comfortable, and inviting.
Lizanne Guthrie | Residential and Business Interiors Call or e-mail for an appointment 682.6612 | lizanne@designstudioltd.com
Dorothy’s Domed Cardinal Feeder is a perfectly lovely way to invite cardinals to get in out of the weather where seed stays fresh and dry. Goldfinch and chickadees will love it too.
one of their favorite producers of American-made bird feeders. Simply put, “Attracting birds is so much fun, so full of wonder, and a delightful experience.” The Clausens themselves can give you another reason. They believe that by creating a place for birds to nest, raise their young, and find food and water, you can help sustain biodiversity and make a positive impact on bird populations. Bird feeding and bird watching make up the second largest hobby in the nation next to gardening. So how does one Continued on page 4
Shades of Green
The Need for Trees Local tree preservation and restoration efforts are taking root.
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heir leaves absorb carbon dioxide, keeping our planet from overheating and giving us back precious oxygen. This is the miracle wrought by trees, and we can quantify its value. Planting just two trees around the home can save 30 percent on cooling bills. Trees can add 20 percent to property value. If we planted them along all the city streets, we could save four billion dollars in energy costs. They also benefit our physical and mental health in ways that we can’t put a price on. Midwest storms and extreme temperatures have been killing about six thousand trees per year on Wichita’s public land alone. During its spring Hillside Nursery will be planting three dif- membership drive, ferent types of oak trees, including the public radio staEnglish oak (shown here), chinkapin oak, tion KMUW invited and bur oak (a white oak tree). Continued on page 6.
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The Front Porch Wichita
Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design redefines the art of exquisite jewelry Wichita’s premiere fine-jewelry store sparkles and inspires with a refreshed interior and new innovative Design Suite.
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f you haven’t been to Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design lately, you’re in for a real treat. The new look, new floor, new layout, new lighting, are just the beginning. This is a new experience. Prepare to be awed. Visionary co-owners Robin Lies and Nathan Regan have been creating a space that not only looks and feels different, but with the latest installation of state-of-theart technology in their new Design Suite, it’s redesigning the way you think about custom jewelry. Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design has always offered its customers exquisite, top-of-the-line ready-made jewelry, and they continue to garner accolades for their extraordinary jewelry wholly designed and made by in-house master jewelers. They’ve won more than fifty-seven state and national jewelry design awards— two of them just this year. Now, they’ve made it possible for you to be a part of the entire custom design process. Enter the Design Suite and they’ll show you the progress of your design through each step of the process. As always, you can rest assured that Burnell’s uses only the highest-quality platinum, 18K gold, and 14K gold. They’ve spent over thirty years building their solidgold reputation, on integrity, quality, and trust. They have access to the world’s finest quality diamonds and colored gemstones. In fact, they are experts in gemstone selection and thoroughly enjoy sharing their knowledge, guiding their customers in learning how they, too, can look for the finest examples of gems. And, if you choose to use the Design Suite, they’ll share an unbelievable range of possibilities in a matter of minutes. The cutting-edge software behind the screen, well, you need to see it to believe it! In the end, however, it’s all about finding jewelry that is beautiful, durable, comfortable, and truly matches the customer’s wishes and lifestyle. And that is where Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design excels. Step inside Burnell’s new Design Suite and in a matter of moments “That’s why we continue to add exciting new lines of you’ll be creating your own special jewelry. With the help of their jewjewelry designs by top designers from around the world,” elers you can embark on an exquisite journey of bringing your unique Robin says. “Our collective passion for fine jewelry and vision to life. exquisite gemstones has made Burnell’s a destination for over thirty years. Our customers know they’ll always find an unmatched offering of dazzling lines of the finest jewelry designs.” It’s what Robin calls “the essence” of the store. So regardless of budget, occasion, or who you are buying for, Burnell’s will help you select the jewelry that’s perfect for you. In fact, it’s that individualized care and attention they give each and every customer that makes all the difference in the world. “We believe some of our success is because we listen to our customers so together we can find, or design, a piece that completely represents them. We’re especially excited about the response to our new look, and the enthusiasm the Design Suite has generated among our customers. The new interaction capabilities have brought a new level of fun to the whole jewelry experience,” adds Robin, with a very pleased smile. Experience the most imaginative, and flat-out gorgeous jewelry in Wichita at Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design in the Mill Creek Shopping Center, 550 N. Rock Rd., 634.2822, or visit Burnells.com.
November Designer Showcase Come meet the designers, their jewelry, and their inspiration. Please join Burnell’s Fine Jewelry and Design this November for their Designer Showcase and enjoy hors d’oeuvres and fine chocolates, while you get up close and personal with four of their signature designers and their unique collections. Also enjoy 20% off of selected pieces. November 5—7 Thursday VIP event 5—8 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.—8 p.m Saturday 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
Kitchen & Bath Gallery’s inspired talent creates a spectacular retreat This whole-house remodel, on Beaver Lake, Arkansas, required exceptional expertise and logistical know-how.
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hen these homeowners wanted a major remodel to their newly acquired lake home, they knew right away that Kitchen & Bath Gallery was the right fit. They had worked with coowner and designer Mark Combs in their Wichita home, and trusted him wholeheartedly to eliminate the old, awkward layout, and maximize the stunning lakeside views. “Mark really puts himself into the project, creating a home he would like to live in,” the homeowners say, “He personally oversaw every aspect of the project, and the trust he instilled was very important, especially considering the construction was out of state.” Kitchen & Bath Gallery is experienced at overcoming obstacles that can arise with an out-of-state project. The scope of this remodel, which included every room in the upper and lower levels, as well as updates to the exterior, was focused on keeping the new layout as uncomplicated as possible, creating a serene space that the family could truly experience as a home away from home. To that end, Combs was a perfect fit. A craftsman in every sense of the word, he has the talent for making a house beautiful, and the heart for making it a home. The owners couldn’t be happier. The trim, the millwork, and finishing touches are flawless, and the impressive transformation has given them an incredible new resort-inspired retreat with captivating views of the lake from nearly every angle. Discover how Kitchen & Bath Gallery can transform your home. Call 686.7938, visit their showroom at 2823 E. Douglas, or online at TheKitchenandBathGallery.com. Clockwise from top left: All of the existing golden oak woodwork, including the beams, was given a custom glaze to blend with the darker finish of the new cabinetry. 1] The main wall of windows in the living room was reconstructed, giving Kitchen & Bath Gallery the opportunity to create a new transom and exterior beamed structure to mirror the beamed ceiling inside. The 4” select white oak floors throughout the upper level were custom stained. 2] The kitchen was completely reconfigured and remodeled using custom stained knotty alder cabinets, finished with twig style pulls, and topped with Absolute Black granite in a brushed finish. The stunning four-color river pebble blend backsplash mirrors the beautiful Arkansas rock
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fireplace in the living room. 3] The most significant change to the main level came about by removing a wall that separated the kitchen and dining areas from the living room. A peninsula, finished in the same manner as the kitchen, was designed for the space where the wall once was, creating an unobstructed view of the lake and an expansive flow through the main living space. 4] The family room on the lower level was opened up and given an updated look by replacing an overwhelming oak bar and cabinets with the design and installation of a sleek, custom bar with the same style of cabinets as upstairs and a mini split faced stacked natural stone backsplash.
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The Front Porch Wichita
Radical Bubbles refreshes blinds and shades with green cleaning
Convenience for homeowners and concern for the environment are at the heart of this local business.
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here are bugs aplenty creeping around during the spring, summer, and fall. They find their way inside the home, where they get trapped in silhouette and honeycomb shades and attract the attention of spiders. Opening and closing shades squishes them and leaves ugly spots in the fabric. Thank goodness for Mike and Ann Seybert, whose company Radical Bubbles can “debug” blinds and shades using ultrasonic cleaning— a high-tech, eco-friendly method recommended by window treatment manufacturers. Here’s how it works: Radical Bubbles comes to your home or business towing a mobile cleaning station equipped with an ultrasonic machine designed specifically for blind and shade cleaning. The ultrasonic system uses a high frequency sound Convenience is key when Radical Bubbles makes a house call. The cleaning takes place in a portable workspace outside of your home. There, your blinds are washed, rinsed, and dried before being reinstalled on your windows. In addition to ultrasonic cleaning, the company also offers repair services for blinds.
wave to create microscopic bubbles that are very unstable (Radical Bubbles). When these bubbles touch something they implode causing a vacuum that sucks the dirt and stains off the blind or shade. Ultrasonic cleaning is known for its gentleness and efficiency. It is energy-efficient and well-suited for window decor, which is composed of many moving parts that trap all kinds of debris. Bugs are one of many things that Radical Bubbles can clean out of your blinds and shades. They also treat stains from dust, burning candles, air fresheners, hair spray, cooking residue, food, and pet hair. Over time, these things get embedded into the fabric and leave behind a grimy film. Radical Bubbles can restore the beauty and functionality of all your window treatments in about four hours or less. The company’s green cleaning technique uses biodegradable, non-toxic detergents with odor-free results. It saves customers a lot of money by extending the life of their window coverings. In turn, fewer blinds and shades end up in the landfill. To learn more about renewing your blinds and shades in an environmentally friendly fashion, visit RadicalBubbles.com. Call 204.4694 and schedule an appointment to get your window coverings looking fresh and clean in time for the upcoming holidays.
A Peaceable Kingdom The Joy of Feeding Birds, from page 2 get started? There are no rules or procedures. There are no clubs to join (unless you want to). There is no required apparel. You don’t have to travel anywhere. With over four hundred species of birds that call Kansas home, all you have to do is hang a bird feeder where you can easily and comfortably view it. Fill it with the freshest, cleanest seed you can buy. If you set up only one feeder, the A stainless steel mesh “peanut feeder” Clausens recom- will attract clinging birds like the downy mend that you fill woodpeckers and the white breasted it with black oil nuthatch. sunflower seeds. Clean sunflower is the highest calorie food you can offer and is the most attractive to songbirds. From there, you may decide to expand your bird activity by adding nut feeders for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other clinging birds. Jelly and nectar feeders are great for orioles and hummingbirds. Now that you’ve provided a consistent supply of food, water, and shelter year-round, it’s time to sit back and watch the fun begin. Your birds will soon reward you with frequent appearances and lovely songs. After the first chickadee, goldfinch, or cardinal lands on your feeder, the Clausens promise that you will be hooked. Bird feeding is inexpensive, physically undemanding, soothing to the soul, and educational for all ages. Best Continued on page 5. 4
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Gas Can Kitchens raises the bar on creative outdoor living spaces This local company’s growing reputation for superior design and quality workmanship has made it the area’s top choice for exceptional outdoor rooms.
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hen it comes to turning ordinary backyards into extraordinary outdoor living spaces, Ryan Dirks and Aaron Young, owners of Gas Can Kitchens, bring considerable expertise in specialty construction and design to each and every project. They understand the challenges homeowners face: from deciding how to divide up your yard to make the most of the outdoor space, to determining what structures will best enhance your home, to choosing the best materials. It can all be a bit overwhelming, but Gas Can Kitchens has built their reputation by making the process smooth and the results impeccable. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet outdoor kitchen, a patio with specialty lighting and a fire
Gas Can Kitchens can build from a number of materials, but always use fully welded steel frames in their outdoor kitchens to last a lifetime. This outdoor living area features beautiful masonry throughout, a natural flagstone patio, and a wood burning fireplace. The natural gas fire pit and adjacent stone bench, premium furniture, and outdoor lighting create a warm and inviting oasis.
pit, or you want a pergola, pool house, porch, or deck, Gas Can Kitchens has the know-how, and the talent, to get the job done right. They incorporate practical details into their cutting-edge designs, giving each project the personalized care and attention that’s earned them high praise from their growing list of satisfied customers. To get started on your unique outdoor living spaces, call Gas Can Kitchens at 316.530.1295. You can view their custom fire tables, grill islands, and fivestar outdoor kitchens by visiting GasCanKitchens.com
This impressive outdoor kitchen constructed with New Jersey bluestone, features a custom outdoor cooking area, stainless steel storage, a wood burning fireplace, outdoor seating, and hand ground concrete countertops.
A Peaceable Kingdom The Joy of Feeding Birds, from page 4 of all, it’s a hobby that you can enjoy for a lifetime. There are green benefits, too. Attracting birds to your yard provides insect control that is safer than any chemical you might put on your lawn. Bird feeding is a wonderful way to give back to birds some of the habitat that they have lost to environmental devastation and land development. Do you know any other hobby that can do all that? This article was written by Cathy Clausen, master gardener, avid bird watcher, and co-owner of the Backyard Nature Center in the Shops at Tallgrass. To learn more about feeding birds, stop by 8336 E. 21st Street #500, call 683.2121, or visit BackyardNatureCenter.com.
At Leatherman Dental we take pride in making dentures with improved stability, with a unique emphasis on appearance. In fact, we’re so proud of our dentures we put our signature on each one. Our dentures are designed for you to look and feel great. We have a variety of options that can help make eating more comfortable. Please call us for a free consultation.
A Full Service Dental Office Full Mouth Restoration Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Lowen Leatherman and Dr. Aaron Leatherman
You’ll feel great and look great in our
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316.685.5121 LeathermanDental.com Autumn 2015
3837 North Woodlawn 5
The Front Porch Wichita
Bringing new life to kitchens is a breeze with Kitchen Tune-Up ®
When it comes to fresh new looks with style and space that works, this award-winning local company continues to shine.
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hen homeowners Keith and Susan Reazin decided their dated honey oak kitchen needed a lift, they contacted Kitchen Tune-Up. Owners Jim and Arlene Phillips, with designer Rachel Phillips, understood from the beginning what they were looking for: a new stylish kitchen, without the headaches, or cost, of a major remodel. “My dilemma was how to incorporate something that would blend in with the rest of the oak in our home, and really set off our wood floors,” Susan says. That was just the kind of challenge Kitchen Tune-Up likes. They immediately went to work in fashioning a makeover with a refacing that gave the Reazins a beautiful new kitchen in about a week. Collaborating with Rachel, they ended up with just the right colors and materials to make their new kitchen “shine.” Although Kitchen Tune-Up has plenty of experience at creating new kitchens, they also excel in transforming cabinets using their refacing techniques. This project included the entire kitchen, as well as the builtin desk. A powder room off the kitchen was given a similar treatment. To give it all a cohesive flow the new full overlay staggered height painted maple cabinets were done in a bisque with a chocolate glaze. The glazing reflects the color of the oak in the floor and woodwork in the rest of their home. The cabinet doors are a raised panel style and the drawers have profile slab fronts. The counters and island were topped with a richly colored New Venetian gold granite, with a classic ogee edge, that prominently displays several exotic veins. The backsplash is a natural blend of tumbled travertine subway tiles with an accent band of glass, marble, and travertine mosaic. Oil rubbed bronze hardware was chosen to match the homeowners new bronze light fixtures, and a new 60/40 under counter stainless steel sink was installed to match the existing appliances. The homeowners couldn’t be happier with the makeover. “I love it. It shines,” Susan says. “In fact, now that I know how stress-free and smooth the process is I don’t know why it took us so long to decide to do it. We absolutely recommend Kitchen Tune-Up to anyone,” she adds as she surveys her new kitchen with a smile. To schedule a free consultation in the design studio at 4057 N. Woodlawn, Ste 1, call 316.558.8888 or e-mail jphillips@kitchentuneup.com. Learn more at kitchentuneup.com, or Facebook at Kitchen Tune-Up, Wichita, Kansas.
Green Shades of Green The Need for Trees, from page 2 Barney Barnhard of ICTrees and Greg McHenry of Hillside Nursery to spread the word about the dire situation. “Our job is to help people understand their community better, and I think that’s what we did in this case by raising awareness about trees and what role they play, where to plant, and why we should plant them,” says KMUW general manager Debra Fraser. Hillside Nursery and ICTrees matched money donations from the public with their own donations of trees. McHenry, who recently passed away, had beautified many of the city’s
most prominent places, including Exploration Place and the newly remodeled airport. His contribution on KMUW will result in 150 trees going into the ground this fall. “It was a very successful day on the air and a great community partnership between KMUW, ICTrees, Hillside Nursery, and our loyal listeners—so much so that we hope to make it an annual tradition,” Fraser says. Financial constraints have severely limited the city’s role in the matter since 2000, which was the last time enough trees were planted to replace the ones that were lost. In 2014, the Altogether there are a dozen different types of trees that will be planted city removed six thousand throughout Wichita parks this fall. Among them are the eastern redbud and only planted five hun- (above), Chinese pistache (left), Shantung maple, hackberry, swamp white dred. It would take forty oak, chinkapin oak, Shumard red oak, Princeton American elm, and lacebark thousand more to make up elm. Each one contributes to the beauty of Wichita in its own way. for the last fifteen years. To help replenish Wichita’s landscape, you can make When Barnhard learned about these a donation to ICTrees or handpick a tree from Hillside statistics, he realized that the solution Nursery’s excellent selection. Fall remains the best season would have to come from private efforts. to plant because of its mild temperatures. He started ICTrees, a subdivision of the Your donation is greatly appreciated at ICTrees.org. Wichita Parks Foundation, to organize Hillside Nursery’s tree farm is located at 9140 S. 55th citizens devoted to restoring and protect- East, one mile south of Derby. Arrange a visit by calling ing local trees. Private and corporate do- 686.6414. Listen to KMUW, Wichita’s listener-supported nors have already stepped forward with public radio station, on 89.1 FM or visit KMUW.org. contributions
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Front Porch the
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The Art of Cultivating Simple Pleasures and Living Well Welcome to The Front Porch Wichita! We invite you to join us as we share ideas for homes and gardens, swap some recipes, meet some interesting people, and chat a little about this and that. And if you happen to have a front porch that you’d like us to see, please write or call us. We’ll be more than happy to stop by, and maybe even sit a spell. To view on-line, please visit: TheFrontPorchWichita.com Support your local businesses whenever possible. Please let participants know you saw them in The Front Porch Wichita! Editor: Kathy D. Heaton Contributing Writers: Matt Nelson and Kat Schneider Copy Editor: Jo Bowman
Contributing Graphic Designer: Hai Tran Intern: Frantz Augustin Publisher: Patrick D. Wherritt
Contents copyright ©2015 by Daniels Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted or reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. The Front Porch Wichita is a registered trademark of Daniels Publishing, Inc. The Front Porch Wichita is designed to showcase area businesses and professionals. Space is paid for by the advertisers and is an opportunity for them to let you know more about them and their businesses. The Front Porch Wichita makes no claims regarding, and does not endorse, the services, and/or products featured. Subscriptions: If you would like to receive each quarterly issue of The Front Porch Wichita please send a check or money order for $3.00 to Daniels Publishing, Inc.
Daniels Publishing, Inc. | 2250 N. Rock Road, Ste. 118-J | Wichita, KS 67226 | 316.687.1968
Autumn 2015
The Front Porch Wichita
Wichita’s Best Selection of
Wedding invitations & announcements napkins & stationery
The Best Events Begin With Invitations & Announcements from
Serving Wichita brides for over 50 years! With over 40 albums to choose from including
crane’s • William arthur caspari and embossed graphics In-Store Printing Invitations & Programs Thank You Notes Imprinted Napkins Attendant Gifts Guest Books & Albums Favors Stationery
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Hand Painted Toasting Glasses Exclusively at Maxine’s .........
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5400 E. Central ~ 682.8193 maxinesinvitations.com
October 10, 2015 5-9 p.m. Grace Hill Winery, Whitewater, KS
Tour the vineyards. Enjoy local wines & dinner prepared by Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Music by The Mischief Makers. Wine Pull. Live & silent auctions.
Enjoy a fun evening while supporting Wichita Habitat for Humanity’s affordable homeownership program.
$75 individual tickets can be purchased online at RTReventbrite.com or call 316/269-0755. Autumn 2015
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The Front Porch Wichita
Wings of the Wind brings its high-flying toys and fun to a new location A larger store means more space for all those kites, spinners, whirlers, and twirlers.
First purchase at new store will be discounted $5.
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ark and Susan Adams couldn’t have picked a better place to sell kites, toys, and windy-weather décor. Wichita experiences more wind annually than the “Windy City” itself—Chicago. Their store is called Wings of the Wind. After three years in business, they are already moving to a bigger building. The move will take place this October, just as high temperatures give way to cool, crisp weather. It is the perfect time for families to drop in and stock up on fun stuff for outdoor activities on breezy fall days. Kite-flying is a peaceful and fun hobby that anyone can get into. Wings of the Wind has something for all skill levels, from single-line kites to sophisticated flying wonders in many characters and types to decorate the skies. There are also flags, windsocks, wind spinners, and wind chimes for the porch and garden, as well as unusual toys, gifts, and gadgets for every age. Mark opened Kansas’s first kite store in 1975 after his parents told him about an impressive aerial display they saw in California: a forty-five-foot aluminized Mylar dragon kite undulating in the blue sky. He kept the business five years before going to work for his father in his oil investment company. A true passion cannot be swept away by passing time, however, and Mark’s passion stayed with him like a kite tethered to its flyer. He finally reopened in 2012 with the help of his wife, Susan. Their ever-growing inventory has since outgrown their current space. Mark says the new store’s vaulted twenty-one-foot ceilings will make for a better shopping experience. “We can just load it up with kites, and they won’t be dragging on anybody’s head,” he says. Mark adds that they have painted the floor to look like the sky. Customers can walk on clouds while browsing a manifold inventory that appeals to adults and kids alike. In addition to kites, Wings of the Wind showcases a collection of flying toys, such as boomerangs, light up flying discs, helicopters, and drones. It will be a full scale toy store with fun gifts for every age and interest. The new store will be located at 550 N. Rock Road, Suite 60. Your first purchase there will get you a five-dollar discount. Until then, Wings of the Wind will remain open in its current location at 5420 E. Central. Appeal to your lighter side, come in, play, and leave with some serious fun for the whole family! Follow us on Facebook, Wings of the Wind Kites & Toys, visit online at WingsoftheWindKites.com, or call 316.281.4275.
The new Wings of the Wind will open mid-October at 550 N Rock Road, Suite 60. It is the large green two-story building that looks like a house on the far north end of Mill Creek Village Shopping Center, just north of the Starbucks at Rock Road and Central. Mark and Susan Adams are excited about the display potential of the new store. Its tall ceilings will let them hang their kites in a beautiful cascade for visitors. The extra space will provide ample room for everything else: windsocks, flags, wind spinners, wind chimes, and garden décor. Wings of the Wind will also carry lots of cool toys for all ages. This is a fantastic place to shop for birthday and Christmas gifts.
Oh Yeah! China Bistro
Chinese Cuisine with an Artful Flair For more than twenty years Shu Tai and Robert Liao have been serving the finest Asian foods to grateful Wichitans. It’s no surprise that their loyal following has grown dramatically with the opening of OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO. This fine-dining Chinese restaurant reaches far beyond the ordinary with authentic gourmet Chinese cuisine. At OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO, every meal is prepared to order, and their delicious sauces are all made from scratch. The menu features all the traditional Asian favorites, plantbased or meat proteins, and steamed or stir-fried dishes—and they are more than happy to accommodate special requests. OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO chefs skillfully transform traditional Chinese dishes into masterpieces so artfully, so delectably, and so subtly that diners will wonder if they’re still in Kansas.
Reserve a table in the beautiful dining room for your special occasion. And remember— Oh Yeah! China Bistro also caters!
There’s more: OH YEAH! CHINA BISTRO’S reasonable prices, sleek décor, soft lighting, rich hardwood floors, upholstered booths, and linen tablecloths and napkins— even for lunch—create a dining experience that will have you saying, “Oh Yeah! China Bistro.”
Deliveries within 4 mile radius
Open Tue–Fri 11–2:30, Mon–Thurs 4:30–9:30, Fri 4:30–10, Sat 11:30–10, Sun 11:30–9
HANA CAFE
and Sushi Bar
3101 N. Rock Rd 425.7700 OhYeahChinaBistro.com
Unique Asian Fare Drawing upon a background of more than thirty years’ experience in running successful sushi bars in New York and Boston, Jay and Eunice Kim serve a unique blend of Japanese and Korean cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Since opening in 1996, HANA CAFE has steadily gained favor with those who appreciate ultrafresh sushi and other artfully prepared-from-scratch Asian food.
Lunch: Mon–Sat 11-4 Dinner: Mon–Thur 4–10, Fri–Sat 4–11, Sun 12–10
325 N. Mead, Old Town Square 267.3766
Shop Local: It’s what makes Wichita great! Final Fridays! Small Business Saturdays! Every Day! 8
Autumn 2015
The Front Porch Wichita
Dock 410 grows into a fullscale art gallery destination
This family-owned business has become Wichita’s go-to marketplace for custom art, antique prints, and original décor.
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alking through the newly installed double-glass entry in back of Dock 410, you enter a cornucopia of fine art photography, eclectic furniture, and unique accessories. Owners Mark and Judy Wilkes have made careers out of creating beautiful spaces. For twenty years, they owned and operated Cottonwood Interiors, a successful and respected interior design business in Wichita. Now they offer us Dock 410, a gallery distinguished by its mix of conversation pieces that include visually arresting images of the Kansas landscape. Over the years, Mark and Judy have amassed an impressive number of antique prints—about 250,000, actually— with some dating back to the year 1600. The prints include maps and scenes of history, wildlife, architecture, sports . . . the list goes on and on. Dock 410 provides complete framing services for all prints and fine art photographs. Mark’s hobby as a photographer goes back to his high school days, but he really began tapping its potential later in life. One day, a client asked him to find Kansasrelated art to hang in an office. Mark decided to take some of the pictures himself. Both he and his son Taylor Wilkes (also a photographer) often point the camera at the rural landscape, and what they capture through the lens is nothing short of stunning. Their photos reveal the bucolic serenity of the Great Plains with a level of detail and color that takes your breath away. And Dock 410’s on-site printing capabilities can generate photos like these up to mural-size. Dock 410’s vintage brick interior is a suitable backdrop for its fine art photography. The building itself has as much character as the collection pieces it houses. But Dock 410 is more than an attractive local gallery. It manifests the Wilkes family’s personal approach to art and their passion for creativity. Stop in Dock 410, 410 S. Commerce St., 262.7330, and discover great finds for your home or office, or visit their website, Dock410Wichita.com. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
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The Front Porch Wichita
America’s Front Porch: Wichita Style, from cover and refined into a national emblem of everyday life. Front porches in America are thought to have first appeared in southern shotgun houses, named for their long, narrow structure with a front and back door that provided a straight “shot” through the house. Shotgun houses had stoops that afforded people shade from the sun and shelter from the rain. It was this design feature that caught on with settlers, to whom America’s climate must have seemed tropical compared to that of Europe. Variations of the front porch showed up in numerous styles of architecture over the centuries: the broad verandas of colonial homes as early as the 1600s, the Greek-inspired porticos of the 1800s, and the deep-set porches of bungalows of the early 1900s, by which time industrialization had relieved some of the toil of daily life. People were enjoying more leisure, and the front porch became more than just a staple of home construction. It became a culture in and of itself. Continued on page 12.
Above three photos: These porches share a number of common traits. They convey an old-fashioned kind of hospitality that is genuine and honest, but not overstated. Their simple support columns—painted a clean, classic white—openly invite neighbors to wave hello or approach for some conversation, if they wish. Shuttered windows flash a little Southern style. The above photo shows two hallmarks of front porch culture: a rocking chair and a porch swing. In the upper right photo, homeowners have included a matching conversation set made of wicker. The white furniture sits against siding that has been painted a bright, happy yellow. We love this porch so much that we selected it for the cover of our very first issue in autumn of 2009. Upper left: Plants intertwine with the pergola’s columns and crisscross of beams, adding an extra bit of shade. Still, traces of light will find their way through the network of vines and form curious patterns on the wooden floor of this porch. Lower left: Framed by heavy masonry and furnished with ornate cast-iron chairs, this porch is most likely for show rather than sitting. Again, we see lush green vines adding an organic touch to materials wrought by human hands. Instead of a roof, an awning projects from a window to provide shelter.
A Welcoming Tradition A front door has the grand opportunity to make a first impression. The manner in which it greets visitors speaks to the sort of dwelling that lies beyond the threshold; it says something about the nature of the people who live there. Doors are replete with symbolism in every culture. Red doors, for instance, are popular around the world and represent things such as good luck, financial status, and divine protection. In the Chinese philosophy of Feng Shui, a red front door translates to “Welcome.” Because the color red also symbolizes good fortune, it bestows good luck upon those who walk through the doorway. Scottish homeowners are said to paint their front doors red to indicate that they’ve paid off their mortgages. In many cultures, a red door is believed to protect the occupants from harm. It appears in early American tradition, too, when a red-painted door signified that travelers were welcome to stop and rest at that particular home. Whichever tradition you choose to observe, you simply can’t go wrong with the classic combination of red against white. Not only are red doors striking, but they are also an expression of hospitality. (To see how three-colors complemented the red door of the house above, left, see CertaPro Painters of Wichita, page 13.)
These three photos show just how differently porches can look in terms of style and scale. The home in the above photo features semicircular Romanesque arches and a Spanish tile roof. The owner has filled up two of the archways with palm trees planted in heavy pots, which make this entry’s style absolutely Mediterranean. Just like in the Romanesque architecture of the late 1900s, however, the front porch here is not featured with prominence. It exists in the background, recessed and upstaged by a large garden enclosed by a brick and stone wall.
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Once inside this portales, (see front porch on cover), you become aware that it leads to a cloistered courtyard, or patio, which is artfully concealed by arched wood doors embellished with festive strings of red chile ristras iconic of Southwest style. A stunning blue-tiled fountain anchors the front porch. The soothing sounds of water can be heard echoing through porch and patio during at least three seasons. A collection of southwestern succulents in pretty pots surrounds this showstopper of a fountain and completes the lovely composition.
Square in shape, with bracketed eaves and a low-pitched roof, this partial front porch is reminiscent of Italianate architecture from the mid-1800s. The front of the home is heavily landscaped with hedges and vines covering parts of the façade and concealing the support columns of the porch. The robust vines give the illusion of privacy and probably provide some additional shade on the porch, where a simple willow chair sits in the corner. In the foreground, a brush stroke of colorful flowers accents the prevailing green.
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Nelson Designs offers dining rooms for every taste in town The spirit of gathering takes on new meaning with high style and elegant design.
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ining together with family and friends is something to be enjoyed and savored. It’s a time when everything else can be put on hold and your attention can shift to sharing food, engaging in conversation, and creating memories. Sharon Nelson, co-owner and lead interior designer knows that central to the dining room is the table, which more than any other piece of furniture in a home, represents the family as a whole. So much so that sometimes when a member is temporarily absent, their place is sometimes still kept set, or reserved, for their return. That’s why Nelson Designs carries some of Nelson Designs offers the ultimate holiday accessory. the finest dining room furnishings for This stunning dining table starts with a sturdy bronze metal base in an antique gold finish. The smooth finyour holiday feasts. Nelson knows her customers are ished 200 pound oval marble top is imported from all unique, and she loves it that way. the fabled Carrara marble mountains of Italy. “Some people may think you have to go to New York to find the latest styles,” says Nelson, “but we are committed to bringing the best of new designs to Wichita.” And, to that end they specialize in furnishings you won’t find elsewhere. Many of their exclusive lines are the result of visiting markets far and wide, which means you can find furnishings and accessories from around the world, right here in Wichita. Whether you’re looking to update, redesign, or simply refresh, Nelson Designs has an entire team of professionals with a reputation for delivering an extensive range of high quality products, services, and designs tailored to the specific needs of each client. “We strive to take the pressure off of making decisions and work to create designs that will work for each client,” says Nelson. “In fact, we like to think that ‘making it easy’ is what Nelson Designs is all about.” We’d like to add, “making it yours,” to that. Whatever style you choose, Nelson can help you coordinate all your accessories and lend a sense of harmony to your dining room. She knows the spirit of gathering is as influenced as much by your surroundings as it is by the company you share it with. “When you’re comfortable, chances are pretty good that your family, and your guests, will also enjoy the space, the food, and the camaraderie,” says Nelson. Stop in Nelson Designs, in The Shops at Tallgrass, 21st and Rock Road, 613.3450, and learn how they can bring new life to your home. Meet with their designers and set up a consulting appointment today, or visit NelsonDesignsllc.net
Holistic Nursing Consultants Barbara Denison msn, aprn, ahn–bc
Your Healthcare Partner . . . with time to listen . . . to learn . . . to care. Whether you have: • Chronic or acute pain • Chronic inflammation • High cholesterol
• Insulin resistance • Stress, anxiety, fatigue, or • Grief brought on by life changes
Holistic Nursing Consultants has the resources to navigate you toward the path of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Holistic Health Consultations, with nutritional assessment and recommendations. APOE Gene Diettm Program & Therapeutic Touch to facilitate healthy lifestyle changes. Mindfulness practices such as learning the relaxation response and meditation. Education classes and workshops in Meditation, Nutrition, and Therapeutic Touch. To learn more or schedule a consultation with Barbara Denison, call 316.992.0077. Visit BarbaraDenison.com for upcoming events, workshops, and classes.
Barbara Denison relies on her more than 37-year nursing career, considerable advanced education, and intuition to guide her in becoming a therapeutic partner with her clients. Her integrative approach helps many people regain their health.
Executive Park Eas t / L akeside Plaza, 250 N Rock Road, Ste 30 0 P
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The Front Porch Wichita
America’s Front Porch: Wichita Style, from page 10
Then television and air conditioning drew people indoors. As more and more automobiles roamed up and down the streets, the porch no longer seemed like an ideal place to sit and relax. Many new houses no longer featured a front porch. Modern home design replaced it with a “carport” or relegated it to the private backyard. During the evenings, you were likely to be watching your favorite sitcom in a cool living room, or you were out among anonymous crowds at restaurants and movie theatres. If television and air conditioning endangered the front porch back then, then today’s Internet, smart phones, and on-demand entertainment should have been the final nails in the coffin. Against all odds, however, the front porch has experienced a renaissance in new home construction. Its origi-
Stone steps lead up to a matching set of outdoor wicker furniture that provides conversation for two. The neatness of the arrangement is a reflection of the well-manicured landscaping. Farther out, large stones have been carefully placed among colorful plantings.
nal function as a social gathering spot is less obvious these days. Homeowners have repurposed it somewhat. Throughout the year, they use their porch space as a stage for decorations to mark the different seasons. Urns and planter barrels overflow with blossoms in the spring and summer; arts-and-crafts scarecrows and gourds signify the arrival of fall; festive lights herald the warmth and cheer of the holidays. The front porch is no less relevant today than it was fifty or even a hundred years ago. It may be the only place left in the home that is free of distraction, and therefore it is still best suited to preserve our connections with people and the outdoors. Dressing it up may help bring back some of that old front porch culture. Just don’t forget to add inviting furniture, such as deck chairs, wicker sofas, or a padded bench. Better yet, how about a traditional porch swing or a pair of rocking chairs? Now that you have it looking perfect, we encourage you to take a load off and sit a spell. Enjoy porch-sitting the way it used to be done. Text by Matt Nelson, who enjoys reading and writing on his front porch. Photography by Patrick Wherritt. As summer gives way to fall, people in neighborhoods across the city are jubilantly celebrating the season’s turning by changing out their porch décor. The entranceway and the seating area of this front porch are fairly awash in golds, yellows, and umbers. Laughing, this homeowner says, “Oh, you can’t overdo autumn.”
Clockwise from above left: 1] Before-and-after photos show the dramatic transformation of the front façade. Kitchen & Bath Gallery built a magnificent two-story portico better suited to this home’s proportions than its smaller, original one—especially after a significant addition was made to the home. 2] Handsomely carved doors mark the final touch in this extensive remodel by Kitchen & Bath Gallery. This ample wood-covered porch is supported by beams with scalloped ends. The custom-carved and stained double front doors are highlighted with beautifully patterned beveled glass. 3] There used to be a negligible stoop here but no real front porch to speak of. When Kitchen & Bath Gallery built a major addition onto the home, they worked with Design Studio Ltd. to create a new front porch. The homeowners decided that a small window in an upstairs bathroom was a small thing to sacrifice for such a beautiful new porch. They love the arched opening, which does more than complement the shape of the round gable window; it gives stature to the entry. The new porch is wide enough for seasonal displays—in this case, hydrangeas in the summer.
Noteworthy Literacy Intervention The Fundamental Learning Center is a life preserver for children with dyslexia.
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here is a national literacy crisis happening. In Kansas, it involves more than 60 percent of children with below-proficient reading skills. Standard classroom teaching methods cannot help many of these students, who have an extremely common and often misunderstood learning disability known as dyslexia. “One in five individuals across the country, in Kansas, in Wichita, is dyslexic,” says Jeanine Phillips, co-founder and executive director at Fundamental Learning Center. “It is hereditary. It’s being passed down in families with neither parents nor kids understanding what it is. The same thing is true for teachers. People need to know it’s not a visual problem of seeing words backwards. It’s a language learning-based problem.”
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Dyslexics have trouble matching sounds with their corresponding letters (for example, the “sh” sound in the word “shoe”). This hinders their ability to recognize words on paper, understand directions, take notes, and even memorize a phone number or address. Even though research is crystal clear about the fact that dyslexia has nothing to do with a person’s intelligence, children who fall behind academically are likely to feel inadequate. “If you don’t read well, you don’t do well in any subject in school. The feeling of shame sets in very early in children with dyslexia. It impacts every aspect of an individual’s life,” Phillips says. Phillips has personal experience. It wasn’t until college that she found out she was Autumn 2015
The Front Porch Wichita
CertaPro Painters of Wichita makes every home shine with style When it comes to painting houses, inside and outside, this family-owned local business continues to raise the bar.
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They start on-site, where they go over all your needs and address any special concerns. Advice from their professional color consultant is always free. And, the painting? Well, they believe the most important step begins with getting the preparation right and making sure all the details that are important to you are kept in mind. When you choose CertaPro Painters of Wichita, you get professional, detail-oriented, neat, honest, caring, and dependable services from the start of the job right to the last These homeowners had invested a lot into their home, and wanted it to look as good as stroke. They are available for all possible. They couldn’t be more satisfied with the whole house painting: siding, trim, kinds of painting services including and garage that accents their welcoming red front door (see a detail of the inviting interior, exterior, commercial and front porch on page 10, Welcoming Traditions.) They’d definitely recommend CertaPro residential, no job is too big or too to anyone who’s looking for the professional touch. small. They know the importance of With every painting project, big or small, CertaPro is enhancing the value of your property, so they take great care in properly prepping every job. From appearance committed to providing the highest quality professional to durability, they make certain that every painting service in the area. They strive to be top of the industry, and project is finished to the customer’s satisfaction. It’s the painters you can trust—with all your future jobs. Contact CertaPro Painters of Wichita today and The owners were extremely happy with CertaPro Painters of Wichita. what CertaPro calls the “Certainty” promise that They were impressed with the positive attitude that the CertaPro accompanies every job. They know you have a choice discover the difference. Schedule a free quote online at team displayed in getting the job done right. They were especially when it comes to allowing a contractor into your home, wichita-east.certapro.com, call 316.440.0161, stop by happy to find a company that was on time, pleasant, knowledgable, and consider it a privilege to provide their services to their office at 125 S. West St., Ste 103, or send an e-mail to and did perfect work. you, and will always strive to exceed your expectations. jabaker@certapro.com fresh paint job will make your house look its best, and make it last longer. When it comes to taking care of your property, Jamie and Jorge Ibarra, the owners of CertaPro Painters of Wichita, believe you deserve the best. They understand how important it is to have your home or business painted in the only way they know how to paint—the right way. They don’t believe in taking shortcuts, and will always ensure the work is done right—the first time! To Jamie and Jorge, painting is about making homes as beautiful as they can be. They love the work they do, as their finished projects clearly show. But more importantly, they truly understand what goes into a proper paint job.
Noteworthy Literacy Intervention, continued from page 12.
The classroom growth at the Fundamental Learning Center verifies the local need for literacy intervention. “We used to offer academic language therapy to small groups of children 3-5 times a week,” Phillips says. “We since have made the decision to go to full days of school.” She hopes to move to a larger facility, where she will create after-school programs to help more kids.
dyslexic. After her own child was diagnosed, she felt motivated to create a non-profit organization that would provide specialized help to children in the community. Tackling the problem of dyslexia necessarily requires a different approach to teaching language. Fundamental Learning Center uses hands-on activities proven by research to help switch on the language-decoding part of the brain. Phillips says that intervention is ideal in ages 4-6, when a child starts learning how to read. Fundamental Learning Center also provides resources for parents and educators. There are workshops, courses eligible for college credit, and a year-round lecture series with titles such as “ADHD” and “Walk in Their Shoes,” which presents a simulation of what it’s like to be dyslexic. “Dyslexia 101” is a monthly, one-hour presentation that shares the most current research and basic facts about dyslexia. Quoting Fundamental Learning Center’s website, “Children are far more likely to succeed academically when parents become educated about dyslexia and provide a voice for them.” The next talk is November 19. Cookies and coffee will be served. RSVP if you plan to attend. For more information about the Fundamental Learning Center and its services, visit funlearn.org. The Fundamental Learning Center is located in Parklane Shopping Center, 917 S. Glendale, 684.7323 (READ). Autumn 2015
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The Front Porch Wichita
Totally Nuts for Nuts! Finally, summer has given way to autumn, and squirrels are celebrating the season’s turning by busily scouring trees and feeders for nature’s nutty windfall.
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urns out that squirrels instinctively know what major research studies tell us. Nuts are a nutrient powerhouse. And while the squirrels are gathering nuts, we’re gathering recipes for nut-filled pies, cookies, and cakes. Pecan pie and walnut cake are traditional mainstays of the holiday season, but we wanted to try some recipes that use other choice, but often overlooked, nuts. So we scoured the Internet and select food magazines and found a treasure trove of recipes. We settled on three featuring Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, and pistachios, and they’ve proven to be such hands-down favorites that we’ll be preparing them several times throughout the upcoming holidays. We begin with an easy-to-make, deliciously creamy, Brazil nut soup, a popular dish derived from Brazilian cuisine. The almost decadent richness of Brazil nuts, combined with this recipe’s other ingredients, makes for a delectably hearty soup. Brazil nuts are packed with selenium, and just one Brazil nut a day meets dietary guidelines. Holiday dinners are always the right time to take a little time to create something that’s as festive to look at as it is tantalizing to taste. This savory tart is highlighted by hazelnuts, which provide its pleasantly crunchy topping. Roasting carrots with maple syrup— another seasonal staple—creates a sweet yet tangy dish. The added benefit: Hazelnuts are high in manganese and copper. Brazil Nut Soup Dessert is a holiday fruit cake featuring pistachios, one of the oldest nuts enjoyed worldwide. Archaeological evidence dates the association of pistachios and man to as early as 6,000 BC. The positive benefits of the pistachio include heart health, successful weight management, protection against diabetes and hypertension, and improved digestion. Also good for your health are the vitamins, minerals, fats, and protein found in pistachios. This cake is also chock-full of sweet pears, semi-sweet chocolate chunks, and just a touch of orange zest, all of which create a celebration for the taste buds. All in all, we find the health benefits of nuts take second place to the tempting tastes, from smooth to spicy to sweet, that are possible with nature’s autumn bounty: nuts!
Brazil Nut Soup 1 cup Brazil nuts, roasted 4 cups vegetable broth, divided use 1 1/2 tablespoons Healthy Heart non-dairy butter 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated white pepper, plus additional for serving 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg 2/3 cup non-dairy soy creamer, or almond milk (not low-fat) 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped finely
In a food processor, grind the nuts, pulsing on and off, until they are finely ground. Reserve in the food processor.
Heat the vegetable broth over medium heat. Add a ladle of the broth to the food processor, pulse until smooth, and set aside. In a medium saucepan, melt the non-dairy butter. When it has melted, remove the pan from the heat and quickly whisk in the flour, making a simple roux. Return the roux to the heat and continue whisking constantly, until it begins to coalesce and pull away from the sides of the pan. Add the remaining broth to the roux, continuing to whisk, about a cup at a time. Add the nut mixture to the roux and season with the salt, white pepper, and nutmeg. Add the non-dairy soy creamer. This soup is delicious when first made, but it can easily be prepared the day before serving and reheated over low heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning, ladle into four soup bowls, top with additional white pepper and chopped parsley, and serve. This recipe was adapted from EasyBrazilianRecipes.com
By Kathy Heaton Photography by Patrick Wherritt
Maple-Glazed Carrot, Mushroom, and Hazelnut Tart 12-14 carrots, peeled and cut in half lengthwise 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided use 1 teaspoon salt, divided use 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon maple syrup, divided use 1 sheet Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry, cut into 4 pieces 3-4 shallots, very finely diced 3 cups Crimini mushrooms, very finely chopped or processed 1/2 cup chopped and roasted hazelnuts, divided use 3/4 cup Tofutti® non-dairy cream cheese 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves, chopped, plus a few leaves for garnish
Maple-Glazed Carrot, Mushroom, and Hazelnut Tart
Fresh Hazelnuts, or as they’re called in Oregon, Filberts.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cook the carrots in a saucepan of boiling water for approximately 4-5 minutes, until just barely tender. Drain and carefully toss the carrots with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and 4 tablespoons of the maple syrup. Spread the carrots out in one layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, turning once. They should be nicely done, but not mushy. Set aside. Place the four pastry rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Score a 3/8th-inch border. Prick the center areas with a fork and bake in the oven for 12 minutes. Set aside. Sauté the diced shallots in the remaining one tablespoon olive oil over a medium-low heat until thoroughly soft, being careful not to brown them. Add the Crimini mushrooms and continue sautéing the mixture until the mushrooms are tender, the moisture is cooked out, and the mixture is fairly dry. Remove the mixture to a large plate to cool. Process a third of the mushroom-shallot blend with 1/3 cup of the chopped and roasted hazelnuts, the non-dairy cream cheese, the 2 tablespoons of fresh tarragon, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Be careful not to over-process; the mixture should remain fairly coarse. Put the mixture into a large bowl and stir in the remaining mushroom-shallot blend. Gently press down the centers of the puff pastry pieces with the back of a spoon. Spread 1/4 of the mushroom-shallot blend inside each pastry and lay the glazed carrots on top. You may need to trim the carrots to fit, but they will shrink a bit when baked, so you can also tuck the ends under the pastry edge to fit. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the maple syrup over and repeat with the remaining three pieces of puff pastry. Return the pastries to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden. To serve, sprinkle with a few tarragon leaves, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of maple syrup over, and top with the remaining chopped and roasted hazelnuts. This recipe was adapted from Good Food magazine, December 2013. Continued on page 15.
Tips and Techniques Roasting Nuts While you can probably find roasted nuts for these recipes, we strongly advise you to purchase raw organic nuts and roast them yourself. The rewards are many: The aroma of freshly roasting nuts wafting through your home, the ability to precisely roast the nuts to perfection, and avoiding nuts with a rancid taste, which can happen if they are roasted in mechanized seed oils, or if they’ve been sitting on a shelf too long. Additionally, if you roast fresh nuts yourself, you retain their heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. After several attempts at roasting the nuts first and then trying to rub their skins off, we discovered a better way to peel pistachios, hazelnuts, and Brazil nuts. Boil them. That’s right, blanch the nuts in boiling water first; this will loosen the skins so they can easily be rubbed off with your fingers or a tea towel. After they are skinned, place them on a baking sheet in the oven to roast. It takes 10 to 12 minutes to roast each type of nut, but they each do best at different temperatures. The smaller pistachios prefer a low 325 degrees, hazelnuts roast nicely at 350 degrees, and the larger Brazil nuts roast best in a hotter oven of 400 degrees. Regardless of the type of nut, you’ll want to stir them at least once to toast evenly, and keep your eye on them for the last few minutes to avoid scorching. Generally, once they begin to give off fragrance, they are close to done. Warning: Cool them for a moment or two before taste-testing. Roasted nuts fresh from the oven are hot!
Egg-replacement in Baking You can replace eggs in baked goods in a couple of ways. One way is to whisk 4 ½ teaspoons Ener-G Egg Replacer with 6 tablespoons of water. Another way, which is preferred for this fruit cake, is to mix 3 tablespoons of plain white vinegar and 3 tablespoons of water in a high-sided small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of baking powder to this vinegar-water blend, which will immediately bubble up. As soon as the bubbles begin to subside, add to the batter.
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Pistachio, Pear, and Chocolate Loaf Cake Autumn 2015
The Front Porch Wichita
Totally Nuts for Nuts! from page 14 Pistachio, Pear, and Chocolate Loaf Cake 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for flouring loaf pan 1 teaspoon baking powder 2/3 cup fine sugar, also known as caster sugar Pinch of salt 2/3 cup coconut butter, not coconut oil, plus additional to grease loaf pan Egg replacer for 3 eggs (See note, page 14.) 1 cup dairy-free Enjoy Life semi-sweet chocolate Mega Chunks 1 medium-sized pear, peeled, cored, and diced into pieces no larger than 1/4-inch 1 cup roasted pistachios Zest of 1 orange, finely chopped
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour an 8-inch by 4-inch loaf pan and set aside. Put the flour, baking powder, caster sugar, salt, and coconut butter in a food processor and process until just combined; you don’t want to over-process the mixture. Mix the egg replacer in a small high-sided bowl and add the baking powder to the vinegar-water mixture. As soon as the bubbles begin to subside, pour it into the processor and pulse a couple of times. Spoon the batter—It will be quite thick—into a large mixing bowl. Add the chocolate chunks, pear, pistachios, and orange zest and mix until evenly distributed. Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and bake for approximately one hour. To see if the cake is done, insert a wooden skewer in the middle and see if it comes out clean. You’ll want the cake to start to brown, but remove it from the oven just before it starts to pull away from the edges of the pan. Place on a cooling rack for 5 minutes. Run an offset spatula or a table knife gently around the edges to detach the cake from the sides of the pan. Place a rack over the top of the loaf and flip it upside down; the cake should slip out easily. Turn the cake over and allow it to cool completely. If you prepare the cake the day before serving, be sure it has cooled completely, then loosely cover it with plastic wrap and leave it on the rack overnight. When it’s ready to serve, cut the cake into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Place two slices on a plate and enjoy with your favorite tea or coffee. This recipe was adapted from Vogue Entertaining + Travel, Autumn 2000.
All Things Barbecue makes it fun and easy to take your outdoor cooking to a new level State-of-the-art products are backed by an experienced, inspired team at Wichita’s premier outdoor living store.
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arbecue has always been America’s pastime, but we are witnessing a new level of popularity for America’s favorite culinary tradition. With television shows featuring everything from exotic recipes cooked on a grill to competition barbecue and barbecue restaurant crawls, barbecue has never been bigger than it is right now. One of the items that has made this resurgence possible, and one that is surely on someone you love’s holiday gift list, is the Kamado style ceramic charcoal grill. Kamado grills have been around for thousands of years. Ancient cultures cooked with wood in large clay pots that allowed for meat to be hung above the fire or placed around the outside of the chamber. In the late 1970s and early 1980s these grills started showing up in America and the ceramic grill’s most popular brand was born with Big Green Egg.
The combination of an Alfresco Grill Head and Big Green Egg ceramic grill, gives this outdoor cooking space everything you need to cook amazing meals within easy reach. Martillo Créme Brulee Dishware, Spice Herringbone Striped Napkins, Gold Woven Table Runner, and Woven Rattan Napkin Rings available at Pier 1 Imports, Bradley Fair, 1800 N. Rock Road, #100, 315.0330.
Over the years, adventurous pitmasters and home cooks have been drawn to the simplicity of cooking with charcoal in a round vertical grill. The style of cooking is not unlike cooking in a classic Weber Kettle, but with a ceramic grill the opportunity for higher heat grilling, low and slow smoking and even baking is taken to a new
Kamado Joe Ceramic Grill is flat out one of the finest ceramic grills on the planet! That may be a bold statement, but we invite you to look under the hood and see for yourself just how easy it is to make Kamado Joe part of your permanent backyard setup.
level due to the insulating properties of the ceramic. All Things Barbecue carries the state’s most complete line of ceramic grills including Big Green Egg, Kamado Joe and Primo Grills. Along with these grills they have rows and rows of accessories, add-ons, smoker control systems and upgraded pieces and parts. If you have been looking into getting a ceramic style cooker, or are looking for that perfect holiday gift for the cook in your life, stop by All Things Barbecue and let them show you around and help you learn about the various models and brands so you can get a feel for yourself just why people love these grills so much. Discover the difference that quality lines can make in your outdoor living experience. Visit All Things Barbecue at 818 W. Douglas Ave in the Historic Delano District, call 440.3950, or visit online at ATBBQ.com Upcoming classes in the all things BarBecUe teaching Kitchen October 16th Dinner on the Grill w/ Wine Pairing @ 6pm
November 14th Holiday Turkey and Ham @ 10am
October 17th Ultimate Pork Class @ 10am
November 14th The Ultimate Turkey Class @ 2pm
October 17th Blue Ribbon Brisket @ 2pm SOLD OUT
December 11th Dinner on the Grill w/ Wine Pairing @ 6pm
November 13th Master the Grill December 12th Prime Rib & Lamb @10am @ 6pm For more information on these classes visit classes.atbbq.com.
FROM YOUR HOME TO YOUR BUSINESS... YOU NAME IT. WE DO IT.
ROOFING - OUTDOOR LIVING - SIDING - REMODELING - GUTTERS - WINDOWS
Ask about our TRUE LIFETIME WARRANTY! Autumn 2015
316.201.1180 www.NEWIMAGEROOFING.biz 15
The Front Porch Wichita
Hearing is believing at LivingSound’s new Apple-centric store The remodeling is completed, the soundproofed listening areas are finished, and LivingSound is ready to rock.
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movies, shows, or music. Instead, you can simply tell Siri what you want to watch or listen to. Audio aficionados will discover an abundance of ear candy in the new store. Just across the hall from the MovieDen, LivingSound’s personal audio lineup features a high-quality selection of headphones—including B&W’s new P5 wireless Bluetooth-enabled headphones—and wireless speakers that MovieDen can play music streamed from portable devices. And you’re welcome to audition The newly finished Movieand compare them. Den is the only place in WichPast the Movieita where you can experience Den, the hall opens Dolby Atmos surround sound. up to a large listenThere are eleven Bowers and ing area called the Wilkins speakers installed Ear Candy JavaDen. Why the throughout the MovieDen. The front soundstage is hidden behind an JavaDen? Well, because coffee is an imporacoustically transparent screen, making it tant staple here. Beyond serving Wichita as invisible to the eye but quite apparent to the local hub of Apple and audio tech, Livthe ear. The rest of the speakers are blend- ingSound is also a cool place to hang out. ed into the walls and ceilings. With sound In the JavaDen, staff and customers alike coming at you from all directions (includ- sip on steaming cups of joe while chatting ing overhead), you get a full-on, immersive about their favorite music artists, albums, experience as Dolby Atmos puts you in the and concerts. The custom acoustic panels middle of the on-screen action. The Mov- are even made from recycled burlap coffee ieDen doubles as a classroom for Living- bags. They are available to order, and you Sound’s quarterly LiveWell classes, during can have them imprinted with your favorite which groups of people can learn about photos or artwork if you want to turn othunique features of Apple devices. If you’d erwise neutral walls into viprefer one-on-one sessions, that sually remarkable acoustic profiles. The JavaDen also can be arranged, too. LivingSound is also outfitting has eight pairs of speakers. the MovieDen with HomeKit, Differing in size, configuraApple’s API that allows Siri—a tion, and color, they can go built-in “personal assistant” that with any kind of interior deresponds to voice commands—to sign. Music lovers may take be used to control lighting, win- them for a test-listen inside dow shades, temperature, and the the store. From vinyl relatest Apple TV lineup. You no cords to digital audio, Livlonger need a button-laden re- ingSound has a variety of Showroom MusicDen mote to search for your favorite mediums at their disposal.
ivingSound was destined to become a unique retail experience after merging with Haddock Computer Center last winter. Now located in the Waterfront, it swings open its doors with gusto and much more to offer customers than a new address. LivingSound’s arrangement of entertainment system demos, audio gear, and unequaled provision of Apple goods make it unlike any other store in Wichita. Of course, some things are the same. LivingSound still has superior-quality audio and video solutions for your home, loft, or apartment. It continues to be Wichita’s only Apple Premium Service Provider, an honor given to the top Apple service shops in the country. With its totally new look and feel, LivingSound presents a brand-new and refined shopping experience. Our tour of the new LivingSound begins with the showroom. Apple enthusiasts will delight in the assortment of MacBooks, iMacs, and iPads. For those who are having trouble with their Apple products, the service check-in area provides technical help that is prompt, courteous, and competent. Troubled Macs can usually be repaired in 3–5 days. LivingSound has laid out a fresh medley of high-end accessories: popular cases, battery packs, stands, and critical items to use your device at home, in the office, on the road, or even thirty thousand feet up in the air.
JavaDen
The MusicDen houses one of the finest stereo systems in the region (and probably the country). It’s rigged with Magico S5 speakers, a Pro-Ject Sumiko Acrylic turntable, a Devialet Expert 200 DAC/Amplifier, an Apple Mac Mini Core Audio media server with iPad control—all on a Solid Tech “Rack of Silence.” Together, these things compose a veritable pleasure dome for the ears. And you can experience it yourself on the first Thursday of each month during LivingSound’s Music Tasting. Seating is limited and will be offered on a reservation basis at Eventbrite.com. Discover how you can experience the best of today’s technology. Stop by LivingSound, located at the Waterfront, 10096 E. 13th St N. #138. Call 425.6340 or visit LivingSoundHome.com to schedule a free in-home consultation. Follow LivingSound on Facebook to learn more.
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Autumn 2015