Northland December 2015

Northland

DECEMBER 2015

NorthlandLifestyle.com

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Merry & Bright Celebrate the season in the Northland

LANDERS’ VISIONS CREATING MAGIC ONE PARTY AT A TIME JOEL SCHNEIDER CAPTURES NATURE IN ALL ITS SPLENDOR ANDIE MCDOWELL WANTS YOU TO PROTECT YOUR HEART

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Lifestyle Letter

Happy holidays!

DECEMBER 2015 editor

Dear friends,

Rachel C. Murphy | RMurphy@LifestylePubs.com

It is truly the merriest time of the year and I can't wait to celebrate. My sister is visiting for a month with her daughters and my mind is reeling from all the possibilities of celebration with my four-year old niece, Scarlett. The holidays are magical for many reasons but it's always more fun when you can experience them with the exuberance of a child and she has exuberance in spades.

This issue is about celebration: of not just the holidays, but of life. Our feature story on Landers' Visions is the perfect example. Collins Landers has made his profession realizing clients wildest fantasies when it comes to events. Not only does he perfect the lights, sound and set, he does it with a humble heart and a smile. His penchant for donating his time and talents to charities demonstrates his dedication to service and everyone who attends his events can feel it, even if they don't know the name behind the magic.

Joel Schneider, a frequent contributor to Northland Lifestyle, celebrates the beauty of nature with each photograph he takes. He's devoted to capturing moments, sometimes during a wedding, sometimes during a lonely night time shoot under a blood moon. His work speaks to the inherent beauty that surrounds us.

In The Seasonal Jewish Cookbook, Amelia Saltsman gives us a peek into the celebratory table. Her recipes communicate her history and the rich texture that cuisine can provide for a holiday.

I hope that you celebrate the season in whatever way you can this year, dear readers.

There is much to be grateful for and many ways to say it. I'll say it in the way that I know: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

sales director

Lori Lapka | Lori.Lapka@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales

Andrew Unrein | Andrew.Unrein@ LifestylePubs.com Carey Welsch | Carey.Welsch@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Lisa Allen, Pete Dulin, Jennifer Higgins, Diana Lambdin Meyer Dawn North, Peggy Parolin contributing photographers

Lani Odell, Diana Lambdin Meyer, Doug Raines, John Roushkolb, Joel Schneider, Staci Valentine

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

| Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker

COPY EDITOR

| Kendra Mathewson

APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Cheers, Rachel

Rachel Murphy, Editor RMurphy@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

CORRECTION: In the article on Urban

North in our November issue, we mistakenly stated that 17 of 24 plots were spoken for. In fact, there are 17 plots available. We deeply regret the error.

6

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

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7373 West 107th Street Overland Park, KS 66212 913.599.4300 | NorthlandLifestyle.com Northland Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northland’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Northland Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

December 2015

24 28 Departments 24 Andie McDowell

Speaking from and about the heart

28 Joel Schnieder

Captures the beauty of nature through his lens

34 Landers' Visions

Creating magic, one event at a time

34 42

10

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Local Limelight

22

What’s Cooking?

24

Healthy Lifestyle

38

Financial Fitness

40

Giving Back

42

Road Trip

45

Sold Properties

46

Lifestyle Calendar

50

Parting Thoughts

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Good Times

Qdoba Opening Day and Fundraiser for Local 42 The Northland's newest eatery, Qdoba Mexican Eats, opened November 2 with a 'pay what you want' promotion.

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Good Times

Park University's Fourth Annual River Read Children's Literature Festival

Roughly 600 students from the North Kansas City School District had the opportunity to interact with 16 authors and explore different types of literature during this interactive festival.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN ROUSHKOLB/PARK UNIVERSITY

Park University Interim President Jeff Ehrlich, Ph. D. interacting with a group of North Kansas City School District fourth graders during the 2015 River Read Children's Literature Festival.

Students from Winnwood Elementary taking part in the River Read Children's Literature Festival at Park University.

Roderick Townley shares his writing and character development process with fourth graders from the North Kansas City School District during the 2015 River Read Children's Literature Festival.

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

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Around Town SPECIAL POLICE TRAINING HELPS NORTHLANDERS OF ALL AGES For up to one in four area residents, a small pin on the uniform of a law enforcement officer could be a life or death issue.

The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) pin worn by increasing numbers of police officers represents specialized training to work with people who have a mental illness or are in crisis. In any given year, that can mean up to one-fourth, approximately 87,000, of the residents of Clay, Platte and Ray counties. Others who may need help include people with Alzheimer’s or autism.

Master Police Officer Aric Anderson of the Kansas City Police presented details of CIT to the Aging and Mental Health Coalition of Kansas City North during their meeting September 24 at Tri-County Mental Health Services. Anderson said 500 Kansas City officers are now trained and increasing numbers are also working in area police and sheriff’s departments.

“The officers are now armed with knowledge,” Anderson explained. “They know about various mental illnesses and medications. We’ve learned to de-escalate a situation rather than do something that might cause stress or add to anxiety.”

He stressed several things the public can keep in mind, starting with the 24-hour mental health line, 1.888.279.8188 (TTY or

out really getting to know each other nor

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Rainen Companies.

UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFTS HELP LOCAL CHARITY Looking for that perfect gift for the animal lover in your life? The Friends of the

if 911 needs to be called for a mental health

Part of the neighborhood component

Parkville Animal Shelter believes it has the

related issue, ask the dispatcher to send a

of the larger Shoal Creek Valley mas-

perfect idea. Its 2016 Fabulous Feline Calen-

CIT officer if available.

ter-planned community, Liberty at Shoal

dar features homeless cats that are available

Creek will be situated in close proximity

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RAINEN BEGINS CONSTRUCTION ON LIBERTY AT SHOAL CREEK

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100% of proceeds go to the shelter to help

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ranging from 754 to 1354 square feet.

“This will not be your typical ‘apartment complex’ where people come and go with-

STALEY HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELOR NOMINATED FOR COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR

Construction on Liberty at Shoal Creek

Year awards program (#scoy16). The award

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take approximately 14 months to complete.

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14

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

Donate your good taste.

One’s trash is another’s treasure.

Donating is life changing for everyone!

...So take those clothes you never wear, that china you never use, the garage packed with stuff you don’t need, and transform your stuff into a hero! From timeless treasures you don’t have space for to gently worn fashions you don’t have a need for, consider our arms right here in The Northland open and paying it forward! Your items will find more than a good home, they’ll create a source of revenue to support the nonprofits right here in our Northland community as well as people in need abroad.

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students, helping them achieve success in school and in life.

Robert Lundlen, school counselor and department chair at Staley High School is one of the six finalists. If chosen, Lundlen, his principal and a representative from his state school counselor associations will travel to Washington, D.C., in January 2016 for three days of celebratory and educational events. The honorees will have meetings with their members of Congress, attend a congressional briefing, be honored in a ceremony at the White House and be formally recognized at a black-tie gala.

SAVE THE DATE: REINDEER GAMES Reindeer Games, a fun family event, will be held at Linden Baptist Church, locat-

Enjoy shops, restaurants, and outside entertainmentsuch as an ice-rink, sand volleyball and miles of scenic walking and biking trails

ed at 611 NE 69th Street in Kansas City, MO on December 12 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.. There will be crafts, games, pictures with Santa and a Small Mall where children may shop for parents and siblings. All activities (including shopping at the Small Mall) are free. A light lunch will be served.

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

Ashley Emmons is making strides in the community.

LOCAL REALTOR HONORED Ashley Emmons, part of the team of realtors at Wolfe-Sweeney and Associates,

was recently honored by Ingram’s Magazine as one of its 20 in their 20s award winners. The honor highlighted young professionals who are pursuing entrepreneurial dreams.

This is not the first of Emmons’ honors, only the most recent. Emmons is one of the Harvest Ball Society’s 2015 VICTORY honorees and sits on the board of the Northland Young Professionals, among other distinctions. She generated $40 million in revenue for Wolfe-Sweeney last year alone and prides herself on personalized service for her clients.

LOCAL YOUTH SEEK TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF PEOPLE IN WESTON AND BEYOND Crossroads Student Ministries has been busy as students seek to make a difference in the lives of people in Weston and beyond. Over the last 6 weeks, Crossroads has fed the football team, collected 195 pairs of jeans and pants for the homeless in Kansas City, and fed the faculty and staff of West Platte schools lunch during a recent teacher work day.

“Students (teens) of today want to live out an authentic faith through serving others and making a tangible impact in people’s lives,” says Director of Student Ministries John Birkhead. “ They don’t want to wait for God’s kingdom to come, they want to help make it a reality today in people’s lives. It’s the whole ‘on earth as it is in heaven’ thing. Students desire to see that happen. At Crossroads, we want to help facilitate that.”

While Crossroads Student Ministries is a ministry of Weston UMC, participation is in no way exclusive to Methodist students.

Students who attend other churches or no church at all are welcome to any and all of our ministries. The easiest way for students to connect is through Sunday Night Youth Group. They meet at 5:00 p.m. at the Crossroads for dinner and a program.

If you would like more information about how you can support Crossroads, contact John Birkhead at youth@westonumc.com or 816.640.2900.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

17

Local Limelight

Christina Harlin WRITER LETS THE CHARACTERS COME OUT IN SUPERNATURAL THRILLERS.

ARTICLE LISA ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL

C

hristina Harlin is a people watcher.

As an author of paranormal stories, including the new “Othernaturals” series, she tours haunted houses and spooky cemeteries with her son, Jake, who acts as her bodyguard, photographer and assistant. The locations inspire her to be sure, but it’s the people watching that really sparks her creativity.

“I’ve met so many interesting people,” she says. “They have great stories to tell and come from all walks of life. I can just hang back and listen to them talk, but I’ll share that I’m a writer and what I write about if someone asks.”

Before Harlin could write words, she drew pictures to tell stories.

Then she scribbled on the backs of forms from her dad’s office, then wrote longhand before she started typing on an electric typewriter.

“I write even when no one sees it,” she says, “because it’s fun!” She writes in the paranormal genre because she believes the world can use more magic.

“It’s nothing to be afraid of. The fantacist in me loves being able to make things go the way I think they should, but I don’t always have control. What’s really fun is when a character in a book fights me.”

Harlin, whose day job is at a law office in Kansas City, is a proud Missouri native. Her family has been here for four generations and she’s lived in the central part of the state, has spent summers on a farm, and has lived in Jefferson City. She now calls Platte City home and has lived in Kansas City for 25 years.

“I love my state,” she says. “Everything I write happens in Missouri. I adopt certain towns, but of course I rename them.”

She and Jake have recently toured the Atchison cemetery, the Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City, Longview Mansion in Lee’s Summit and Vaile Mansion in Liberty; but the scariest tour for Harlin was Belvoir Winery in Liberty.

“It was chilling!” she says. “Thank goodness for Jake. He’s braver than I am.”

Harlin says she experiments on every tour; sometimes she brings an EMP detector, sometimes she follows someone other than a tour guide into areas she’s not sure she should be in. That’s what she and Jake did at Belvoir Winery.

“The winery itself is beautiful but the outlying buildings—once used as a mental hospital and retirement home—are terrifying. The entire escapade was like a ghost story unto itself.”

Oddly—or perhaps poignantly—enough, Harlin was scared into taking writing seriously.

“Hearing nice things is flattering and humbling and it encourages me to keep writing,” she says. “But what really inspired me was losing a friend when he was 35. He wanted to be a writer. That scared me; what if I never tried? Not long after he died I tried self-publishing.”

Harlin took a few creative writing classes in high school and college, but she hasn’t really studied writing. Instead she reads “lots of good books” and credits other writers for teaching her how to construct a sentence, structure a plot, and sprinkle details in just the right places.

“Reading is truly the best education,” she says. She reads romance novels—her guilty pleasure—and mysteries, thrillers, science CONTINUED >

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

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Local Limelight

(CON TI N U ED)

fiction, and anything with interesting lords and ladies. She’s a sucker for anything by Steven King and mysteries by Elizabeth George.

“The truth is, the stories I write are squirming to get out. There are little people living in my head; they party and have a good time together. Because of that I usually start with characters; that’s the most important element. Then I’ll rough out an outline and jot down a few details. Then I listen to the characters. I love when they go free range. They frighten me on occasion, but what really makes me happy is when they do something I’d never expect.”

Harlin says she wouldn’t be able to write as much as she does without the unwavering support of her family. Her husband and son and her mother “are nothing but supportive” and have always believed in her, even when she questioned herself.

“My husband, Bruce, is my conscious,” says Harlin. “He cracks the whip and sits on my shoulder, and he pushes me to keep going. My mother is on the other shoulder. She’s an eternal optimist.”

It’s no surprise, then, that Harlin’s advice to aspiring writers is to accept as much support and help as possible.

“And if you know someone who wants to write,” she says, “be the support they need. Encourage them to go for it!”

Harlin’s work includes the new “Othernaturals” series; the next book will be out in Spring 2016.

Learn more at ChristinaHarlin.com or follow her on Facebook and Goodreads at GoodReads.com/ author/show/1391999.Christina_Harlin

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

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What’s Cooking?

The seasonal jewish kitchen ARTICLE RACHEL MURPHY RECIPE AMELIA SALTSMAN

D

PHOTOGRAPHY STACI VALENTINE

ecember is a month of celebration for many faiths, the season to give and receive. It is in this spirit that author and cook Amelia Saltsman presents her newest book, The Seasonal Jewish Kitch-

en. Within the realm of six seasons of the Jewish holiday calendar, Saltsman is able to envelop the reader in her home, the culture of Jewish identity, if not religion and a welcoming table.

More than a collection of recipes, the book acts as a primer for the uninitiated into the rites of Jewish food traditions and a warm reminder for those that practice the faith. Each two month section coincides with the holidays that it contains: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot (September/October), Hanukkah (November/December) Tu b'Shvat (January/February), Purim, Passover (March/April), Shavuot, Lag b'Omer (May/June) and the months of garden bounty (July/ August). So many of the foods involved in each holiday have symbolic meaning, from bitter herbs at Passover to potato latkes fried in oil at Hanukkah. Saltsman illuminates all of the symbolism beautifully.

Not only do the recipes coincide with holidays, they use the best of each season's natural harvest. Saltsman grew up visiting the family farming collective and has great insight into what is fresh and seasonal, letting the ingredients that are naturally available in each time period do the talking.

All in all, this book is a beautiful addition to any kitchen. Its knowledge and wisdom goes beyond kitchen techniques and dives into tradition, family and how to connect with a cultural tradition and a faith. A must read for any one interested in the delicious Jewish heritage.

22

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

Blood Orange and Olive Oil Polenta Upside-Down Cake Makes One 10 by 2 inch cake of 12 servings Syrup-soaked cakes, usually made with semolina and called tishpishti or namoura, are popular throughout the Middle East. With its stained-glass effect from the variegated colors of blood oranges, this upside-down cake, which gets its nubbly texture from sunny cornmeal, is drenched in a sophisticated ruby-red blood-orange syrup.

Use fine-grind cornmeal or polenta; stone-ground meal doesn’t get tender enough in baking.

FOR THE CAKE

4 blood oranges ²⁄3 cup packed light brown sugar 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour ²⁄3 cup cornmeal (not stone-ground) 1 teaspoon baking powder

• In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cornmeal, baking

¾ teaspoon salt

powder and salt. In an electric mixer fitted with the paddle at-

²⁄3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for the pan

tachment, beat together the oil and granulated sugar on medium

¾ cup granulated sugar

speed until thickened and golden. Add the eggs, one at a time,

3 eggs

beating well after each addition until mixture is thick and creamy

For the syrup

gold, 3 to 5 minutes total. Beat in the zest and 1 tablespoon of

½ packet unflavored gelatin

the juice. On low speed, add the flour mixture in three batches,

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

beating after each addition just until blended.

2 tablespoons Cointreau 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Pour batter evenly over the orange slices and gently smooth the top. Bake the cake until golden brown, the top springs back to the touch, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about

• Preheat oven to 350°F . Using a Microplane grater,

25 minutes. Let cool in the pan on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Run a

grate zest from 2 of the blood oranges and reserve. Juice

thin-bladed knife around the inside edge of the pan to loosen the cake

the 2 oranges and reserve. Cut both ends off of each of

sides. Invert a serving plate over the cake, invert the pan and plate

the remaining 2 oranges, then cut each orange crosswise

together, and lift off the pan. If any fruit sticks to the pan, loosen it with

into rounds ⅛ to 1/16 inch (3 to 2 mm) thick. Cut all but one

a spatula and place it on the cake. While the cake is hot, use a fork or

of the slices in half and discard any center pith.

bamboo skewer to make holes in it without going all the way through.

• Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the bottom of a flame-

• While the cake is baking, make the soaking syrup. Fill a medium bowl

proof and ovenproof 10-inch skillet (a well-seasoned cast-iron

one-third full with ice and a little water and nestle a smaller bowl, prefer-

skillet is perfect) and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of the orange

ably metal, in the ice bath. Pour ¼ cup of the remaining orange juice into

juice. Heat skillet over medium-low heat until most of the sugar is

a small pot, sprinkle the gelatin on top, and let soften for 5 minutes. Stir

bubbling. Remove from the heat.

granulated sugar, Cointreau, and lemon juice into the remaining orange

• Starting at the outer edge of the pan, lay the halved orange slices in

juice, then stir the mixture into the softened gelatin. Bring to a simmer

the melted sugar with the “scalloped” edge of each slice touching the

over medium heat and stir to dissolve sugar and gelatin, about 1 minute.

edge of the pan. Fit as many orange slices as you can into the circle,

Do not allow to boil. Pour syrup into the waiting bowl and stir from time to

pinching the corners as you set them into the hot sugar (use a knife point

time until it thickens to the consistency of maple syrup, about 15 minutes.

or tongs to adjust the fruit as needed). Some slices will have a “prettier”

Spoon or brush some of the syrup over the cake. Allow it to soak in, then

side; make sure those are placed face down in the sugar. Arrange the

spoon or brush on more. Repeat until you have used all the syrup.

remaining halved orange slices in concentric circles toward the center, finishing with the reserved whole slice in the center.

• Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing, then cut into wedges with a serrated offset knife to serve.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

23

Healthy Lifestyle

A Healthier &Happier you ANDIE MCDOWELL SHARES HER STORY AT CLUB W EVENT

ARTICLE JENNIFER HIGGINS | PHOTOGRAPHY DOUG RAINES

B

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24

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

est known for her roles in Groundhog Day and Four Weddings and a Funeral, among others, actress Andie McDowell spoke at the inaugural Wine & Wisdom Series event for North Kansas City Hospital’s Club W at The Courtyard by Marriott at Briarcliff.

McDowell says losing her mother at a young age prompted a lifetime of heart health activism and a desire to take care of herself.

“My mother died when she was 53, and I was 23, so taking good care of my health is a reflection of who I am and who I lost. I love healthy food. I love vegetables and I make the best salad in the whole world. I love steak, fish and chicken. I eat a lot of fruit and nuts. I just love good food. I’ve gotten into this habit, and I know how to make it delicious and yummy. I keep good healthy food around,” she says.

Traveling from speaking engagements to movie and TV sets and back home doesn’t make it easy to keep up with habits that might be easier at home.

“It’s harder to take care of yourself when you’re on the road, but it still needs to be done. I try to figure out places to get good food and I bring stuff into my room if I have to. I always ask for a gym. I do that not only for my body, but for the endorphins. It helps me be happy; I have a tendency for sadness if I don’t do it. I know what I need to do to

maintain my positive attitude. Sleep is really important to me; you can ask my kids. I love a good night's sleep. I do yoga because it makes me feel younger—more vibrant, more agile, more youthful. Good food, good exercise and a good night's sleep is the key to taking care of yourself,” McDowell says.

Club W is a relatively new program through North Kansas City Hospital that encourages women to be dedicated to a healthier, happier life. Events such as the Wine & Wisdom series are part of the program.

“The idea is to create a network for women to help with their health, to bring the community together and to teach women how to be a patient advocate. Bringing in someone like Andie, someone famous who has clout, is important as she is a role model. It’s nice to have someone who is glamorous but has her own health issues to share with others to encourage others,“ says Club W Medical Director Ancy Maruthanal, MD. Exclusively for women, Club W is built on showing women how to feel good, look great and lead a healthy lifestyle.

“It’s important for women to take care of themselves because we are the caretakers. We can’t do that job that we love, of nurturing, and be the head of the household if we aren’t taking care of ourselves,” McDowell says.

For more information about Club W visit ClubWKC.com.

Andie McDowell speaks of her own healthy lifestyle tactics.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

25

Meyers Funeral Chapel northland

The Meyers Funeral Chapel family welcomes you to our completely renovated, open-concept funeral home, with elegant finishes and modern touches. We are conveniently located in the quaint setting of downtown Parkville.

As we start our seventh year as members of this community, we sincerely express our gratefulness for your friendship and trust. —Todd, Nikki, Evan & Avery DeMint

401 Main St. Parkville, MO

MeyersFuneralChapel.com 816.741.0251

THROUGH THE

Northlander captures nature in all its glory ARTICLE RACHEL C. MURPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY JOEL SCHNIEDER

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

B

eauty truly is in the eye of the behold-

er. Only some can take that beauty and translate it for others to see. Joel Schnieder is one such individual.

This Northlander makes his living capturing special moments at weddings and in portraits but his passion for nature is amply displayed in his more personal work.

After his grandfather gave him an old SLR camera, he fell in love with the form and says that he seldom put it down. With the advent of digital technology, he was free to explore the world with abandon.

He went on to complete his Bachelor's of Science in photography at the University of Central Missouri at Sedalia. After traveling the world, he has settled in the Northland where he shares a home with his wife, Robin, and son, Elijah.

CONTINUED >

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

29

BEAUTY THROUGH THE LENS (CON TI N U ED)

While deserts and mountains are two of Schnieder's favorite topics, he says that he also finds beauty every day at home. Sunrise and sunset can transform any subject matter, according to Schnieder.

"There's really so much going on right here in Gladstone, if only people will stop and look around them," he says.

Schnieder sells his work at JSchniederPhotography.com/nature and will mount a show at the Gladstone Community Center during May and June of 2016.

30

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

31

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THE Landers’ Visions: Life life of the PaRty party Full-service event production company puts people first.

ARTICLE PETE DULIN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

L

anders Collins created his company’s logo design in 1987 while in high

house. Landers’ Visions provides full-service sound, lighting, video

school. The logo hasn’t changed since then, but Collins and his compa-

systems, set design, floral arrangements, stages and dance floors,

ny, Landers’ Visions, has grown and adapted with the times to become one

water features and much more. Collins and his team excel at con-

of Kansas City’s premier full-service event production companies.

sulting, executing and creating an experience that is memorable and

In his youth, Collins never envisioned himself becoming an entrepreneur.

“I wasn’t interested in going into business for myself,” says Collins, who attended the University of Arkansas in Little Rock.

Collins’ father was a banker and that was the career his son was destined to enter except for a key realization.

“I wasn’t good at math,” Collins says.

Instead, he took classes in landscape architecture, interior design and related courses, eventually enrolling in the university’s archi-

minimizes stress for the client.

“We are strong in creating a look and theme through lighting and design,” Collins says. “Our designs have been copied a lot.”

More often than not, clients signal from the outset that they have a tight budget. Collins addresses that concern from the start.

“We are not focused on pricing,” he says. “We take the call, meet at my office, the client’s office or venue, and share ideas first. Then we draft a contract with options and send it to the client.”

tectural program. One of Collins’ professors in the program told him

The contract’s options cover the client’s requests and needs, plus

about Amy Truff, a former student who worked for an event company.

event-planning components they may not have considered such as

At one point, the company did $7-9 million in annual business and

adding curb appeal to a gala, upgrading the sound system or ad-

planned 150 events per year. Collins contacted Truff and landed a job

dressing power supply issues. The experience of Landers’ Visions is

in the event planning field after college.

offered as a resource to make planning and the event itself a smooth

“We only had pen and paper back then. No internet,” Collins says.

“I learned how to do events, working with florists, linen services, and other vendors.”

process. The portfolio of Landers’ Visions also touts how dramatic and engaging his event designs can be.

“We blend their operations and efforts with our thoughts,” Collins

Collins has mounted pen-and-paper drawings of past event floor

says. “We’re resourceful about using metal, wood, plexiglass and oth-

plans displayed on his office walls in Riverside. These old-school

er materials. We offer branding and video playback, the perfect video

methods obviously pre-date the use of computers, but also testi-

at the perfect time. We let the client talk and we listen.”

fy to his innate art and design instincts. When Truff retired, Collins

As a veteran event producer, Collins has established strong rela-

launched his own business, applied the skills and lessons he acquired

tionships with his clients over time. That relationship-building has

and learned to survive in a tough, competitive industry. Today, Land-

bolstered his company’s longevity and repeat business.

ers’ Visions produces about 150 events per year, primarily in Kansas City as well as select regional events.

Since those early days, Collins has invested in modern sound, lighting, technology, chandeliers, staging and other gear that fill a ware-

“We get along well with our clientele,” Collins says. “They trust us and we receive great referrals as a result. We invite our clients to attend and view other client events we do. That’s made us highly successful. I’ve done 3,500 shows to date.”

CONTINUED >

34

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

“

Landers' Visions lights up Italian Fest at Zona Rosa.

These old-school methods obviously pre-date the use of computers, but also testify to his innate art and design instincts.

When Truff retired, Collins launched his own business, applied the skills and lessons he acquired and learned to survive in a tough, competitive industry.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

35

LANDERS’ VISIONS: THE LIFE OF THE PARTY

(CON TI N U ED)

Landers Collins (third from right) and right hand man, Will Bonikowski (third from left) meet Treads and Threads headliners,The Barenaked Ladies.

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

Collins speaks with a soft accent that reflects his Southern heritage. He relays his background and philosophical approach to doing business in a steady conversational stream.

“We’re a quiet, private company,” Collins says. “We’re calm and polite. I operate with an open book management style. I tell my employees to be professional, smile, be on time and look out for the client. We pick up that piece of paper on the floor even if it isn’t our job. At every event, there are three clients. The venue, the client we’re working with, and the potential client that attends the event and sees what we do.”

This heads-up, “anyone may be a customer” approach keeps the staff of Landings’ Vision on its toes.

Landers’ Vision has worked with former Kansas City Mayor Emanuel Cleaver and civic, corporate and nonprofit leaders throughout Kansas City. The list of past projects includes events for the revival of 18th and Vine, the 1996 Olympic Torch Relay with threetime Olympian Jim Ryun, Treads and Threads, Wayside Waifs’ Fur Ball and countless weddings, galas, and private events.

Kansas City Life Insurance is the firm’s oldest client. The client list reads like a who’s who of Kansas City: Catholic Charities, Harvest Ball Society, Argenta Community Theater, Wayside Waifs, Hope House, Kansas City Chiefs, Argosy Casino, Fox 4 News, University of Kansas Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital Fund. The company also works closely with churches and schools in the community including Avila University, Rockhurst High School and St. Thomas Aquinas.

Landers’ Vision works closely with area hotels and a network of local vendors, including florists such as Trapp and Company, Lon Lane Inspired Occasions and Fiddly Fig. Landers’ Visions also partners with companies that specialize in complementary services as needed.

“We work with our competition,” Collins says. “Sometimes we need them. Sometimes they need us.” Collins finds it’s easier to do business when he’s “friends with our allies.”

Collins’ mother was Baptist. He’s a Methodist. His son is being raised as a Catholic. Collins’ upbringing in Arkansas and values reinforce his actions and outlook. Giving back to the community is second nature on a personal and professional basis, especially when working with charitable and community-based organizations.

“The Nigro Brothers [and Legacy Auctions] does a good job of raising money for charities and organizations,” says Collins.

He has learned from this example and finds ways to work with clients where their mission and needs aligns with his values.

Despite the flashy events that Landers’ Visions produces to stunning effect, Collins himself keeps a low profile with a small staff at his Riverside office.

“I mind my manners. I pay my taxes,” Collins says. “I’ve built this business by working 100 hours a week. Now I’ve hired a few people to help instead of doing it all myself. I work 75 hours a week.”

Collins shares one more piece of advice that he drills into his team.

“If a job needs eight lights, I tell them to pack 10,” he says. “Always bring extra and overpack for the job.”

When something unplanned happens at a carefully planned event – because everyone is human and unexpected occurrences do happen – Collins and his team are prepared. After all, the show must go on.

Autism Services Change Lives

Varsha’s future is bright, thanks to Easter Seals Midwest Autism Services.

Autism is an epidemic with no cure. In fact, 1 in 68 children nationwide will be diagnosed with this mysterious disorder. At Easter Seals Midwest, we focus on providing comprehensive, earlyintervention services that help individuals with autism, and their families, build stronger, happier lives as part of the community.

To better serve the Kansas City region and those impacted by autism, Easter Seals Midwest is pleased to announce expanded programming. In addition to our early childhood services, which help at-risk children achieve more in life, and our community living and employment programs for adults with developmental disabilities—including autism—we now are offering various autism-focused services.

From in-home parent education opportunities to PEERS®, a social skills service for teens with autism, and from workshops and presentations to school observations and IEP support, Easter Seals Midwest is working to ensure that people with autism reach their fullest potential—but we need the community’s help.

It is only through the generous support of the community that these programs are accessible for those who need them most. There are many ways to give back to Easter Seals Midwest, and Missouri tax credits may be available for your gift.

For more details, to learn about service eligibility or to request an autism presentation, please call Easter Seals Midwest at 816-476-4011, and visit EasterSealsMidwest.org to learn more about how we’re helping Kansas City families.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle Advertorial for Northland-Johnson Co Lifestyle_1215.indd 1

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11/16/2015 4:32:32 PM

Financial Fitness

Funeral Pre-Planning—

Planning Ahead for Those Left Behind

NO ONE WANTS TO BE BURIED IN LOAFERS AFTER LIVING A LIFE THAT WARRANTED STILETTOS. ARTICLE BY PEGGY PAROLIN |PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

N

o one wants to be buried in loafers after living a life that warranted stilettos. Maybe that’s why more and more people are deciding to pre-plan their final arrangements. Whether you choose a traditional funeral or a cremation option, every person is different and every service should be as well.

Todd DeMint, managing partner for Meyers Funeral Chapel in Parkville, has been in the funeral business for 20 years, and around it even longer. He began working with Marty Meyers, washing cars and mowing lawns at the age of 16. DeMint learned at an early age that there was a right way to plan a funeral and a wrong way.

The DeMint Family is proud to serve their neighbors and friends.

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

“Marty sat me down in his office and told me that as I grew older and became a funeral director, I would understand what that meant.

The right way is to plan ahead, to make decisions about your services and share them with your family. The wrong way, as Marty described it, is when the deceased shares no wishes, doesn’t plan anything ahead of time and leaves all the personal decisions for the grieving family.”

We all know losing a loved one is never easy. The last thing a person wants to be doing while grieving is making final arrangements, trying to remember the person’s favorite colors, songs and the names of seldom seen relatives. Planning ahead definitely results in less stress on survivors.

Pre-planning your end of life service is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family according to DeMint. When done properly, it can give you peace of mind because you know that your arrangements are ready and pre-funded. Pre-planning can also save you hundreds of dollars. By pre-planning and prepaying for your funeral expenses ahead of time, the effect of inflation can be avoided. While it’s not necessary to prepay when doing the planning, some choose to do so to ease the unexpected financial burden for their families.

When DeMint discusses pre-planning, he provides an easyto-follow guide that gathers information about the type of headstone and its inscription, color of flowers, clothing to be worn,

jewelry, veteran info, person of choice to perform the services, burial or cremation, music, type of service, pallbearers, siblings and other details. By completing the form, there’s no guessing or conflict about the wishes of the deceased.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Don’t make a fuss. I don’t want a ceremony. Just bury me and be done with it.’ But it is important to realize that the ritual of a funeral and/or memorial service isn’t for the deceased but for the living. It is a time when friends and family can gather together to grieve openly and provide support for one another. A funeral is a celebration of life as well as a time to honor your loved one,” DeMint explains.

“It’s easy to say, ‘Don’t make a fuss. I don’t want a ceremony. Just bury me and be done with it.’ But it is important to realize that the ritual of a funeral and/ or memorial service isn’t for the deceased but for the living.”

To better meet the wishes and desires of the residents of the Northland and surrounding communities, the Parkville location recently was completely renovated. The new, open concept allows Meyers to host the most informal of services as well as the most formal.

DeMint and his wife, Nikki, became partners in Meyers Funeral Chapels when they and the Meyers purchased the Northland location in Parkville in January of 2008.

The DeMints and their two children, Evan and Avery, are members of St. Therese Parish. Nikki is a teacher at English Landing Elementary School in the Park Hill School District; the family prides itself on being very involved in the community.

“We live and work in our community,” DeMint offers. “We go to church here and our kids go to school here. When you need a meaningful, personalized service that will honor the life of your loved one, why not call on someone you trust?”

For more on how to ease the burden of funeral planning, visit MeyersFuneralChapel.com.

Lifelong learning begins here...

For over 65 years, Oakhill’s innovative and integrated curriculum challenges students to discover their gifts and provides numerous opportunities for personal growth and development.

Oakhill Offers: • Academics for Children Toddler (Age 2) - 8th Grade • Organized Athletics Program (All Ages) • Before/After School Program • Foreign Language • Arts Program • Library Curriculum • Service Learning • Summer Program • New Middle School Campus (Opening Fall 2016)

To learn more about the school or to schedule a tour, contact:

LEAH GIPE

Director of Admissions leah.gipe@oakhilldayschool.org

Our mission is to provide excellence in education through child-centered learning in a supportive, challenging, and rewarding environment that provides students with self-confidence, values, knowledge, and the foundation for leadership through emotional, physical, and social development.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

39

Giving Back

Lazarus Ministries

Revitalizes a Downtown Church and the Downtrodden

FOR ALMOST 20 YEARS LAZARUS MINISTRIES HAS FED, CLOTHED, AND SUPPORTED KANSAS CITY’S HOMELESS.

ARTICLE KATHERINE BONTRAGER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

I

n 1996, the congregation at Grand Avenue Temple United Methodist, at 205 E. 9th Street in Kansas City, Mo., had shrunk to some three families—a far cry from the hundreds it counted among its ranks in the glory days. The church had been active since 1865, but its community had altered greatly in the ensuing years, from a prosperous, busy commercial district to a neighborhood abandoned.

“There was a potluck luncheon after church one Sunday,” recounts Jessica Brooks-Bryon, the Executive Director.

“The congregation was wondering if they should shutter their doors. Then, in walks a homeless man. Instead of being afraid or offended, they asked him to join their meal. This was the pivotal moment where Lazarus Ministries all began.”

“They continued opening their doors to the homeless and hungry, and it was such a success they needed a few other UM congregations to come and help,” continues Jessica. “Programs continued to grow, and in 2009 Lazarus Ministries was incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit organization in an effort to grow this program from a tiny church outreach into a fortified nonprofit.”

The charity refers to those it serves as “Sojourners” and helps them through five

40

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

outreaches: Lazarus Table, Lazarus Boutique, Emergency Women’s Shelter, Sojourner Health Clinic and Supportive Housing.

“By referring to those we serve as Sojourners, we intentionally emphasize that the homeless individuals are people on a journey; they are in transition and are worthy of care and consideration,” says Jessica.

“And Lazarus Ministries strives to help them on their journey to a better place.”

Lazarus Table, the charity’s cornerstone program, has grown from one meal to three hot meals each weekend, and in 2014 provided more than 31,000 meals.

The clothing boutique, meanwhile, met immediate needs for clothing and personal items for close to 3,500 individuals. And the Emergency Women’s Shelter provided 2,090 nights of shelter to homeless women.

Finally, the Sojourner Health Clinic, which opened in 2004, treated 502 patients in 1,563 patient encounters in the past year alone. Sojourner is a free clinic developed and managed by medical students from the UM–KC Medical School.

On Sundays, the students—with faculty supervision—provide blood-pres-

sure monitoring, blood-sugar testing, a dispensary for medications, and an on-site physician. There have been more than 1,000 patient visits and 2,400 prescriptions filled since the clinic opened.

All of these programs are staffed thanks to volunteers from more than 150 community groups and congregations of all denominations throughout the Midwest. In fact, a force of more than 2,000 volunteers contributed more than 10,000 hours to all Lazarus Ministries projects in 2014 alone. Funding stems from individuals, churches, community groups, foundations, and a few small fundraising events. Plans are in the works for the charity’s first significant fundraiser in the next year.

Those wishing to lend a hand with this grassroots organization should consider volunteering—or even joining the charity’s Board, says Jessica. “We have an outstanding and dedicated Board of Directors, but it’s small team and we need to grow our board to not only diversify the labor and increase our resources, but we’re looking for committed volunteers interested in urban poverty and helping make change in the community. And of course, on a programmatic level, we’re challenged with finding additional funding and stocking items most in-demand in the boutique: men’s jeans and shoes and new underwear.”

It’s easy to fall into stereotypes of what a homeless person looks like, Jessica adds, but the truth will surprise you. For instance, Jenny’s apartment building was sold without notice to residents, and all were forced to move out. With inadequate resources and no support system, her cycle of homelessness began.

“Jenny spent two winters in Lazarus Ministries’ Emergency Shelter for Women,” says Jessica. “It became clear she needed someone to walk her through the steps it takes to get a life back on track. Jenny spent 2.5 years in our Supportive Housing program, living year-round in a basement apartment at Grand Avenue Temple and participating in mental health counseling, case management, and other components of the program. Working through emotional damage from homelessness, learning to live independently, applying for supportive programs (such as disability), and securing employment all take time. The strength of Lazarus’ program is walking alongside our clients while giving them responsibility and rebuilding their self-esteem.”

This past summer, Jenny moved into an independent housing program for seniors, and Lazarus is extremely proud of her journey out of homelessness. The organization will walk with her every step of the way: helping Jenny furnish and move into her apartment, aiding with the $150 deposit, and most importantly, keeping her connected.

“The relationship doesn’t end when our residents move out,” says Jessica. “This is just one step in Jenny’s journey, as she’ll inevitably continue to encounter hurdles within the system. And we’ll be there to help her through those challenges.”

Jenny comes back every week to volunteer and see friends at Lazarus Ministries. While this isn’t required, it’s important for everyone to feel like they have a community, or as Jenny says “Another place to call home.”

For more information, visit GrandAvenueTempleUMC.org/Lazarus-Ministries.

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vnakc.com • 816-531-1200 December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

41

Road Trip

Christmas Markets A GERMAN TRADITION TAKES ROOT IN THE U.S.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY DIANA LAMBDIN MEYER

G

erhard Lippman is from a one-horse, little town in Germany, not far from Frankfurt, called Empfertshausen. If

A selection of handcrafted items from Europe for sale at the Elkhart Lake Christmas market.

Photo by Benjamin Wideman.

you speak German, you may recognize that the word

translates roughly to “one-horse town.”

He is a woodworker who makes magnificent Nativity sets, nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks and other impressive items from wood found in the forest near his home. Handmade items like these are sold in Christmas markets throughout Europe this time of the year, a time when many woodworkers make the majority of their income for the year.

Germany, of course, is famous for Christmas markets, a tradition that dates back to the 1600s in Nuremberg. Held in town squares beginning the Friday after the first Advent Sunday, the markets are usually timber structures decorated with holly bows and fragrant evergreen. With live musical performances and glühwein, a German Christmas market is a holiday treat to experience. (ChristmasMarkets.com) But Gerhard Lippman doesn’t work at the Christmas markets of Germany. He instead gets on a plane and heads to America to a little town called Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.

With a population of fewer than 1,000 about an hour north of Milwaukee, Elkhart Lake could be considered a one-horse town.

It has just one stoplight. It’s a delightful little resort community with more vacation homes than permanent residences, which are filled when the breezes between Lake Michigan and Elkhart Lake blow away the discomfort of summer heat.

But in December, as the lakes freeze over, the summer crowds return to Elkhart Lake for one of the most authentic Christmas markets found in the United States. Located on the grounds of the beautiful Osthoff Resort under a big tent the size of a football field, this Christmas market has just about everything markets in Germany have, including bratwursts and other German sausages, beer and that lovely warm spiced wine known as glühwein.

Gerhard Lippman’s booth is one of the busiest of the 70 under the big tent. He’s been coming to Elkhart Lake for more than 15 years and many returning shoppers simply want to stop in and say hello or purchase an addition to their collection of his work.

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Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

Hand blown glass Christmas ornaments made in Czech Republic.

Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer.

Although he speaks English, Lippman can be heard mumbling in German as he struggles to keep up with the crowd and the many sales that make his journey to Wisconsin such a profitable one each year.

He is joined by leaders of a knitters’ cooperative in Estonia, lace and linen workers from Belgium and a glass ornament artist from Czech Republic, among others. Glass ChristA wooden Nativity handcrafted

by Gerhard Lippman. Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer.

mas ornaments were first made more than 150 years ago in Lauscha, Germany ,just a stone’s throw from Czech Republic.

Of the 70 or so booths at the market, about half of them come from Europe. The remaining booths are filled by carefully vetted artisans in and around Wisconsin known for their skill in hand-crafted treasures.

A visit to the Christmas market is easily a day-long affair. A food court offers up sauerkraut and potato pan-

The author, Diana Lambdin Meyer, learns to roll a Yule Log at the L’Ecole de la Maison. Photo by Nicole Penserio.

cake dinners, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread and German candies, along with German cheeses and sausages that also make good holiday gifts.

Continue the holiday experience with a full weekend at the Osthoff Resort including breakfast with Santa, cookie decorating classes and sleigh rides around Elkhart Lake while singing Christmas carols.

Or you might up the expectations for holiday dinners by signing up for a class at L’Ecole de la Maison, a cooking school located right

Cuckoo clocks handmade in Germany by Gerhard Lippman. Photo

by Diana Lambdin Meyer.

inside the Osthoff. During the holidays, the cooking class emphasizes cookies and other festive desserts, such as Yule logs and gingerbread buildings. But if you’re traveling with a group, you can request just about any type of menu that you would like to explore.

The Osthoff Christmas Market is open

Just like in Germany, the crafters' booths at the Osthoff Christmas market are made of rough timber and adorned with evergreen.

Photo by Benjamin Wideman.

December 4 - 13, 2015. Admission is $6 per person. For more information, visit ChristmasMarketAtOsthoff.com or Osthoff.com.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

43

Weston Family Clinic and Medical Spa HAVE A BLESSED HOLIDAY SEASON! Family Practice (Infants to Geriatrics)

Debra C. Keith, D.O - Family Practice

December Specials!

• HCG Weight Loss Program • Cosmetic Injections by Physician Botox®/Dysport/Juvederm/Voluma XC/Restylane • Esthetician Services / Laser Spa Services

• $50 OFF DYSPORT-50 UNIT MINIMUM • $75 OFF RESTYLANE • $100 OFF LASER VEIN PACKAGE

10% DISCOUNT FOR MILITARY!

Offers Expire 12/31/15

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

Taking appointments for HCG Weight Loss Program and Spa Services-also at our Creekwood Location!

W W W. W F C M E D S P A . C O M 18215 State Route 45N Weston, MO 64098 44

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

816.640.2762

Creekwood Medical Building II 200 NE 54TH Street, Suite 125 Kansas City, MO 64118

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Northland Properties SUBDIVISION

AVERAGE LIST PRICE

AVERAGE SOLD PRICE

% LIST TO SOLD

AVE DOM*

Shoal Creek Valley

678,338

678,338

100%

NC

Staley Farms

496,651

498,852

100%

80

Copperleaf

517,658

511,750

98%

93

Thousand Oaks

444,900

439,600

99%

NC

Tiffany Greens

450,508

459,508

102%

23

The National

390,226

387,101

99%

35

Pembrooke Estates

425,645

425,645

100%

NC

Montebella

417,400

438,819

105%

NC

Staley Hills

389,150

393,658

101%

NC

Willow Brooke

385,000

369,000

96%

177

Emerald Hills

370,000

365,500

98%

149

Riss Lake

354,900

352,000

99%

56

Fountain Hills

335,000

386,315

115%

NC

Hills of Monticello

374,900

365,000

97%

121

Aggregate Subdivision Sales per Heartland MLS 2/16/2012 - 3/15/2012 10/1/2015-11/1/2015 NC - New Construction *Average Days on Market

Riss Lake 5909 Julian Drive Parkville, MO 64152 $3,300,000 • MLS #1965156 Russ Wolfe 816.564.4100

Kathleen Smerchek 816.589.0925

Ashley Sweeney 816.728.2253

www.WolfeSweeney.com

Candi Sweeney 816.591.5590

Kristine Courtney 816.590.1664

6300 N Lucerne Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64151 816.746.2777

Real Estate Mortgage Title Insurance

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

45

Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 1

Nicholas letter. Experience a Civil War encampment, celebrate Santa

STONECREST PROFESSIONAL OPEN HOUSE

Lucia Day and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride after noon. $5 per

DENTON BUILDING AT BURLINGTON CREEK

person over age 5.

Join us for Stonecrest at Burlington Creek’s free professionals open house! Industry professionals are welcome to explore Stonecrest,

DECEMBER 5

a world class, luxury community. We will showcase our community

STONECREST PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE

from the information center located in the Denton Building at Bur-

DENTON BUILDING AT BURLINGTON CREEK

lington Creek. Enjoy complimentary food, beverages and prizes!

Please come to Stonecrest at Burlington Creek’s free public open

StoncrestAtBurlingtonCreek.com

house! Everyone is welcome to enjoy Stonecrest, a world class, luxury

DECEMBER 3 - 24 THE SANTALAND DIARIES COPAKEN STAGE

community. We will showcase our community from the information center located in the Denton Building at Burlington Creek. Enjoy complimentary food, beverages and prizes! StoncrestAtBurlingtonCreek.com

Leave the kids at home for David Sedaris' hilariously irreverent

DECEMBER 5 - 24

holiday show, a side-splitting send-up of Christmas and his brief,

KC BALLET'S

misguided career as a Macy’s elf. See what it’s like to work at Santa-

THE NUTCRACKER

land, where the only thing more plentiful than good cheer is a case

KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR

of the giggles. KCRep.org

THE PERFORMING ARTS Join Kansas City Ballet for the classic, Victorian-era story by E.T.A. Hoffman. Witness a reimagined

performance

with

exquisite costumes, grand sets, stunning special effects and new choreography by Artistic Director Devon Carney. See your children’s wonder ignite and feel your childhood dreams return and inspire you to imagine again. KCBallet.org

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 7

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

JAZZ ON THE SQUARE

AMERICAN LEGION, PARKVILLE

CORBIN THEATRE

Bring the little ones to Historic Downtown Parkville for a special

Join the Corbin Jazz Band for jazz that will keep your toes tapping and bal-

morning treat – breakfast, music, crafts, merriment and some

lads that will warm your heart! Come and hear the favorites from the 1920’s,

quality time with Santa Claus! What a great way to start a day of

30’s, 40’s, 50’s and maybe even a few “new songs” from the 60’s and 70’s!

holiday gift shopping and fun like you won’t find anywhere else!

Admission is $6 per child.

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 12 SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS LIBERTY PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE

A VISIT FROM ST. NICHOLAS

Our popular holiday concert will feature 'Twas the Night Before Christ-

SHOAL CREEK LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM

mas, narrated by LSO timpanist and KMBC Chief Meteorologist Bryan

Tour our decorated homes and log cabins of the 1800s while re-en-

Busby, Corelli's Christmas Concerto and a number of holiday favorites.

actors bring the village to life. Visit St. Nicholas and post your St.

Purchase tickets at Showclix.com/Event/SoundsofChristmas.

46

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

SANTA PAWS FOR NAWS ZONA ROSA Help support the Northland Animal Welfare Society by donating pet food during a special photo event with Santa. Bring your furry friend(s) to Zona Rosa's Winter Wonderland and get a free pet pic with Santa. The first 30 people each night who make a pet food donation get a free photo.

DECEMBER 15 MR. STINKY FEET'S CHRISTMAS MID-CONTINENT PUBLIC LIBRARY-PARKVILLE Jim Cosgrove presents "Mr. Stinky Feet's Christmas." Celebrate the holidays with singing, dancing and stinky feet. Fun for the whole family!

DECEMBER 17 - 22 KC SYMPHONY'S CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS Share this joyous concert tradition with family and friends, as your Symphony and Symphony Chorus perform cherished Christmas carols and songs of the season. Amazingly talented special guests plus an early visit from Santa will fill you with holiday spirit. For tickets visit KCSymphony.org.

DECEMBER 22 SIMPLE STRINGS DULCIMER MUSIC MID-CONTINENT PUBLIC LIBRARY-NORTH OAK Prairie Dulcimer Club will perform favorite Christmas classics in this 45- to 60-minute program. Learn all about the songs and instruments they play. A question and answer period will follow the performance.

KC’S NEWEST HOME COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 14 - 21

A niche subdivision for homeowners who have a heartbeat for contemporary style and appreciate energy efficiency.

R E S E R V E Y O U R L O T T O D AY

8 1 6 -72 1 - 9 4 0 0 U R B A N N O RT H L I V I N G .CO M

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

47

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY ENTERTAINMENT & Art & Frame Warehouse-Northland RECREATION (816) 584-8009 afwkc.com

AUTOMOTIVE

Precision Collision Center (816) 781-9630 precisioncollisionkc.com

CHARITIES & FUNDRAISERS

Show-Me Shooters Indoor Range Fairway Eye Center (816) 452-4867 (913) 491-9123 showmeshooters.com fairwayeyecenter.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Bank Liberty (816) 792-6621 banklibertykc.com

Savers (816) 792-4477 savers.com

Carnes CPA (816) 489-7878 carnescpa.com

CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING

Equity Bank (816) 587-4322 bankpuppet.com

The Nibble Nook, LLC (816) 560-9270 thenibblenook.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Burleson Orthodontics (816) 533-7566 burlesonorthodontics.com Dentistry for Children (816) 548-3400 kidsdentistkc.com Dr Michael Byars DDS (816) 781-8222 byarsdental.com/northland Gordon Dental (816) 505-2222 kcgordondental.com

EDUCATION

HEALTH & WELLNESS Anu Aesthetics (816) 359-3310 anuaesthetics.com

Muscle Metrics (816) 591-6610 musclemetrics.zone

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Seasonal Concepts (913) 642-4999 seasonalconceptsonline.com

HOME SERVICES

Budget Blinds of the Northland and Kansas City (816) 505-5515 budgetblindskc.com

College Nannies & Tutors (816) 256-5907 collegetutors.com/parkvillemo

Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com

OakHill Day School (816) 436-6228 oakhilldayschool.org

INSURANCE

48

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Allstate - Gladstone (816) 420-0500

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

Residences at Burlington Creek (855) 999-1358 maac.com/missouri/kansas-city/ residences-at-burlington-creek

Mosaic Life Care (800) 447-6820 mymosaiclifecare.org

The Rob Ellerman Team Reece & Nichols Realtors (816) 304-4434 therobellermanteam.com

North Kansas City Hospital (Meers) (816) 691-2000 nkch.org

Wolfe-Sweeney & Associates LLC (816) 746-2777 wolfesweeney.com

Pediatric Care North (816) 587-3200 pediatriccarenorth.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Visiting Nurse Association (816) 531-1200 vnakc.com Weston Family Clinic & Medical Spa (816) 640-2762 wfcmedspa.com

NONPROFITS

Easter Seals Midwest (816) 326-6798 eastersealsmidwest.org

OTHER

Meyers Funeral Chapel (816) 741-0251 meyersfuneralchapel.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

Conscious Cafe (816) 492-6779 The Rim (816) 883-8996 the-rim.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

McCrite Plaza at Briarcliff (816) 888-7930 mccritekc.com Senior Helpers (816) 455-9300 seniorhelpers.com/kansascitynorth Stonecrest at Burlington Creek (816) 505-3030 stonecrestatburlingtoncreek.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS

Geiger Elite Real Estate Group Heavenly Olive Oils (816) 721-9400 (816) 554-3377 geigerelitehomes.com heavenlyoliveoils.com Hunt Midwest Real Estate Development (816) 781-7925 huntmidwestkc.com

Susan L. Storm, M.D. • Susan L. L. Storm, Storm, M.D. Susan M.D. Laurie D. Riddell, M.D. • • • Laurie D. D. Riddell, Riddell, M.D. Laurie M.D. Ermalyn Kubart, M.D. • • • Ermalyn Kubart, M.D. Ermalyn Kubart, M.D. Stephanie A. • Marx, M.D. • Stephanie • A. Marx, M.D. Stephanie A. Marx, M.D. • Kathryn Hauptmann, M.D. • Kathryn Hauptmann, M.D. • Kathryn Hauptmann, M.D. Melissa J. •Beard, M.D. Melissa J. •Beard, M.D. • Melissa J. •Beard, M.D. Stephanie R. Bays, M.D. Stephanie •R. Bays, M.D. • Stephanie •R. Bays, M.D. Heather J. Malone, M.D. Heather J. • Malone, M.D. • • Heather J. Malone, M.D. Kathleen .N.P Kathleen Ballenger, Ballenger, PP .N.P ..

• • • Kathleen Ballenger, P.N.P. Monica P.N.P Monica M. M. Rondeau, Rondeau, P.N.P ..

• Monica M. Rondeau, P.N.P.

Serving for over over25 25years years Servingthe the Northland Northland for Serving the Northland for over 25 years

8781 plattepurchase purchasedrive drive tel 16 8781 n.n.platte tel88 1.65.8578.73.2302000 kansas city,mo mo64155 64155 fax 816.587.7644 kansas fax 8781 n.city, platte purchase drive tel 8816.587.7644 16.587.3200 www.pediatriccarenorth.com www.pediatriccarenorth.com kansas city, mo 64155 fax 816.587.7644

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© 2015 College Nannies and Tutors. Offer good for new customers only. Some exclusions apply. Offer must be redeemed by 12/31/2015. Void where prohibited.

December 2015 | Northland Lifestyle

49

Parting Thoughts

It’s All About the

Tree

sure Mrs. Luther thought he was nuts.

The conifer controversy has continued. Despite Teddy Roosevelt’s attempt to ban Christmas trees in the early 1900s, last year Americans spent about a billion dollars on real trees.

That amounts to 33 million trees making their

WORDS DAWN NORTH

F

over the river and through the woods. I’m

way into living rooms across the nation.

or me and Clark Gris-

Forget the hassle of jerry-rigging a Scotch

wold, the kick-off to

pine to the car roof, say artificial advocates.

Christmas is puttin’ up the

They carry theirs home in boxes. And their

pine. Big, small, fake fir or

numbers are nothing to sneeze at. A recent

real – doesn’t matter. This

Nielsen survey indicated more than 80 per-

quiet custom gives us per-

cent of American households put up a phony

mission to proceed with the

fir. Reasons are listed as the cost of buying

magical month of December. And no one is

real or fake, except for one year during the

a new tree every year (and maybe a vacu-

left out. Rich or poor. Young and old. Those

60s when silver aluminum trees with the

um), the convenience of pulling down a ful-

who pledge allegiance to the real thing or peo-

revolving colored lights were the in thing.

ly-dressed tree from the attic and the envi-

Mom usually wanted a Christmas Vaca-

ronmental impact.

out how to make it fit into the tiny red and

opt for counterfeit or traditional, either

But before you haul out the holly or car-

green metal stand. The stand didn’t have

would be a good choice. There is no right

ry up the Christmas cartons, some cru-

a chance and a gray galvanized bucket al-

or wrong. No good or bad. Only a remark-

cial questions will need to be considered.

ways figured into the solution. And there

able transformation just waiting to happen.

Authentic or artificial? Parking lot or tree

was swearing. Always swearing.

ple who prefer plastic. No snootiness allowed in this season of sales, Santas and sleigh bells.

In this place we are all created equal.

tion-style tree, and Dad was left to figure

I think it’s fair to say that whether you

As for me, I still miss the fragrant fir

farm? One’s loyalty to his or her preference

Tree haggling. It’s a genetic condition. My

from my childhood. A strapping big tree

can be pretty fierce. And for some reason,

mom passed it to me, and I will pass it on to my

standing in a bucket. Colored bulbs the

compromise doesn’t come easy. Take it from

daughter. With us (me and my husband) the

size of a man’s thumb, not only lighting up

me, there’s usually an argument lurking just

wrangling involved size and price. He wanted a

the entire house, but producing enough

around the corner.

Charlie Brown tree and I wanted anything else.

heat to roast marshmallows. And Andy

And there was crying. Always crying.

Williams singing something about chest-

For several spouses and significant others surviving the season hasn’t come easy.

It’s likely that husbands and wives have

nuts. Yes, the transformation is complete.

Most years my mom and dad played out

been arguing about Christmas trees since

A simple tree has become the spectacular

a real-life family feud. The question wasn’t

the time Martin Luther toted a Tannenbaum

symbol of a sacred season.

50

Northland Lifestyle | December 2015

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Know what questions to ask.

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1

What exactly is advanced care?

Burleson Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry combines art, science and experience to provide your family with extraordinary orthodontic care. Get to know us and learn how our expertise can work for you. For a complimentary consultation and digital x-rays with one of our orthodontic specialists, go to burlesonortho.com/secondopinion or call (816) 533-7568 for free, friendly phone advice.