Northland
JULY 2016
NorthlandLifestyle.com
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Lifestyle Letter
Summertime. . . And the living is easy W
JULY 2016 publisher
Carey Welsch | Carey.Welsch@LifestylePubs.com editor
ell, at least the living is warm! As the heat wave set in early this year, know that I'm suffering right along with you, dear readers, as I baste in the heat at seven months pregnant. July in Kansas City is a serious undertaking and sometimes you just need to escape!
Rachel C. Murphy | RMurphy@LifestylePubs.com
That's what this issue is all about--summer travel. With the kids out of school and the open road beckoning, it's the perfect time to make a break for it whether it's a short day trip or a longer vacation. We have options for both for you!
Andrew Unrein | Andrew.Unrein@ LifestylePubs.com
sales director
Matthew Perry | Matthew@LifestylePubs.com advertising sales
For a shorter trip, head to Weston to visit the new Green Dirt Farm Creamery. The new production facility provides easy access to the sheep's milk cheese that Kansas Citians have fallen in love with. With Terra Vox Winery and Hearth Baking Company also represented, it's the perfect place to pick up picnic supplies before heading to Weston Bend State Park for some wildlife spotting. And don't forget the locally made ice cream for the kiddos!
contributing writers
Lisa Allen, Pete Dulin, Jennifer Higgins, Peggy Parolin, Diana Lambdin-Meyer contributing photographers
Pete Dulin, Lani Odell, Joel Schneider, Diana Lambdin-Meyer, Jeremy Jordan, Nattapol Pornsalnuwat, Dan Anderson, Jim Jerskey
CORPORATE TEAM
If you crave water, like I do, consider the beaches of North Carolina. With miles of options, even Missouri landlubbers can find a quiet cove in which to relax and recharge. Add a bit of history to the mix with Civil War battlegrounds and it's almost like the kids are still in school with much more enjoyable homework.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
If you just want to escape the heat, the St. Paul area offers lots of options from craft breweries to posh eateries and plenty of entertainment in between. Yes, the mosquito is the state bird of Minnesota (not really, but almost) but there are plenty of fun places to escape them in the St. Paul.
ART DIRECTOR
As photographer Lani Odell points out, travel is a luxury that not many can afford, so if you have the opportunity to get away, take it! As the commercials point out, Americans routinely don't take all of the vacation time that is allotted to them. Why? What is work but a means to an end? Your life is waiting and there are memories to be made. Hit the road!
| Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS
| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd
| Sara Minor | Nicole Sylvester
| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour
LAYOUT DESIGNER DESIGN SPECIALIST
| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER
Happy travels! Rachel
| Matthew Perry
| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park
Rachel Murphy, Editor RMurphy@LifestylePubs.com by Community ™
ON THE COVER The July issue marks five
years of serving the Northland. We have
NorthlandLifestyle.com
encountered so many amazing people and hopefully told their stories well. From all of us at Northland Lifestyle, thank you and we are looking forward to five more years! 6
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
JOIN US
P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 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.
July 2016
30 40 Departments 30 Green Dirt Farm’s Creamery Brings the Farm to Market
10
Publisher’s Letter
12
Good Times
16
Around Town
22
Now Open
40 On the Road with Lani
26
Giving Back
46
Road Trip
50
Locally Owned
54
Lifestyle Calendar
58
Parting Thoughts
Weston is a destination for local cheese, wine, and bread
36 Go North to Eat, Drink and Explore in St. Paul, Minnesota
Myriad possibilities await to the north of the Northland
Local photographer discovers America
36 46
Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana North Carolina | Ohio | Oklahoma | Tennessee | Texas | Utah
xx
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Publisher’s Letter
Packing up Some Sunshine B
efore we know it the Dog Days of Summer will officially commence and it’s time for fireworks, family, friends, and franks on the barbie! I was inspired by our recent Home Edition because it conjured up thoughts regarding the organized chaos my family is currently undertaking. We just moved to Weatherby Lake and so begins another leg in the life of the boxes that still decorate an unfinished basement. C'est la vie! As my faithful mother selflessly worked alongside me packing box after box, I found myself getting incredibly nostalgic. Perhaps it was each memory I physically sorted, perhaps it was her tender reminder of the idiom, “one’s trash is another’s treasure,” and watching my children learn to be charitable. There were some items, of course, that I couldn't part with, vestiges of a simpler time in my life and the life of my two daughters. You see, she’s the kind of mother, having two girls of her own, that knows that some days are indeed long – yet the years are short! Isn't life funny that way? This Summer Travel edition brings forth both personal and professional new beginnings. These pages highlight not only the joy of summer but the celebration of our 5th year of publishing! As our faithful readership knows, our publication is anything but ordinary. We are truly about who we serve – the events that define and surround us – after all, these are the neighborhoods we call home! We are Northland proud (but please don’t tell our neighbors to the South of our secret sauce)!
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Immense thanks to our editor, Rachel, as she is the ultimate anchor showcasing our community. She is dialed into the pulse of our population and for this we are thankful! The collaboration of our business leaders, friends, and neighbors is what makes our publication valuable. We’ve grown and we're thankful. It's your communal voice that has given us the platform to share in the excitement of what makes us unique. Thank you, fellow Northlanders! What is going on in your backyard? Who is making a difference in someone's life? Who is truly notable in their approach to life? As Wayne Dyer says, “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”. Amen! Please share with me what otherwise may go overlooked. Let’s connect and strengthen our bond. We are more than a collection of stories; we are the diary of your life in the Northland. Please do not hesitate to reach out directly at 913.710.3040. I welcome hearing from our neighbors and look forward to seeing you around town! Warmly, Carey Welsch, Publisher Carey.Welsch@lifestylepubs.com
Carey Welsch, Publisher Carey.Welsch@LifestylePubs.com
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Good Times
GO Project Family 5K
The Global Orphan Project teamed up with CarePortal this year to raise awareness for hurting children and families in Kansas City. CarePortal is an initiative of The Global Orphan Project connecting local churches and state to meet the needs of children in the foster care system and at-risk families. CarePortal.org
Friends and family of the GO Project ministry
Team members from the GO Getters and Moyes Wolfe-Sweeney & Courtney has been a Eye Center dedicated 5-year sponsor of the run
The Global Orphan Project Co-Founder, Mike Members from the Apex team before the race Fox, and CEO, Joe Knittig after the race
Matt and Jenna Farmer after 12
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Kindest Kansas Citian Awards
A sold-out crowd of more than 400 attended the 26th annual Kindest Kansas Citian awards, a benefit for Synergy Services. The celebration of kindness makes it possible for Synergy to offer anti-violence programs throughout Greater Kansas City.
Tyrone Flowers
Brent Miles and Co-Chair Jenny Miles
Student Honorees
Kay Johnston and Nate Swisher
Co-Chair Cory Miller and Honoree Fr. Mike Roach
Paula and Dennis Meier
Carmen Sabates, Paula Halsey, Liz Brandt, and Dr. Melanie DeMoss, Sara Anderson, and Dr. Irwin and Rita Blitt Brent Yeage Darcy Stewart
The best dental experience for children and adolescents from 0-18!
Come visit us at our fun, new location!
7001 N. Cherry St, Suite 100 Gladstone, Missouri 64118
Liberty Location: 113 Blue Jay Drive, Suite 201, Liberty, Missouri 64068
816-548-3400 kidsdentistkc.com Louis A. Pollina DDS, Brandi K Roeber DDS Ryan A. Francois DDS, Laura Walden DDS (Teen dentist)
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
13
Good Times
Cheers for Charity benefitting the Parkville Police Commission Assistance Fund Wolfe~Sweeney & Courtney hosted the event at Parkville Reece Nichols office on April 27th raising over $700 for the Fund.  Founder and Chief of Police Kevin Chrisman was the guest speaker. Through the local schools, Chief Chrisman finds out which children and families are in need of financial assistance.
Reece Nichols Parkville Office and Parkville Residents with Chief Kevin Chrisman
Candi Sweeney, Chief Chrisman, Doug Krtek
Bri Petersen, Karen Stump, Lee Robertson, Tanya Hughes, Carey Welsch Kevin Chrisman, Parkville Chief of Police
Linda Cone, Jill Mehr , Karen Stump, Tamara Pernice
The Wolfe-Sweeney & Courtney team: Russ Wolfe, Candi Sweeney, Parville Chief of Police Kevin Christine Courtney, Kevin Chrisman, Brandon Chrisman, Kristine Courtney, Ashley Sweeney Courtney, Billy Courtney
Now in three convenient locations! 8516 North Oak Tfwy Kansas City, MO (816) 214-6831
14
1270 Merriam Lane Kansas City, KS (913) 596-6597
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
8722 Santa Fe Overland Park, KS (913) 648-6001
GENESIS MEDICAL SPA of Kansas City
(816) 452-2200
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816.640.2762
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Around Town
AROUND TOWN
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF KANSAS CITY INSTALLS 2016-2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Assistance League of Kansas City, installed their 2016-2017 board of directors at the May 11, 2016 chapter meeting. This year the non-
CHIPOTLE CULTIVATE FESTIVAL Celebrate real food with music, great chefs and Chipotle on July 23. Penn Valley Park will set the stage for this celebration of all things wholesome and healthy! See celebrity chefs like Andrew Zimmern (three-time James Beard Award-winning TV personality, chef, writer and teacher), Carla Hall (Chef and Co-Host of ABC's Emmy Award-winning “The Chew,” chef at Carla Hall’s Southern Kitchen and author), as well as local celebrity chefs Colby Garrelts (Chef/ Co-owner of Bluestem and rye Restaurants, co-author of “Made in America” and “Bluestem” cookbooks), Gerard Craft (chef/owner of Niche Food Group: Niche, Pastaria, Porano Pasta, Brasserie by Niche and Taste Bar), and Michael Corvino (executive chef and general manager, The American Restaurant).
profit, organization will celebrate their 30th Anniversary as a chapter of
Music will round out the festivities with Broods, Atlas Genius, The
Assistance League®. The 320+ member volunteers develop, manage
Mowglis, Jr Jr, The Knocks, and Hembree performing. There will also
and operate various philanthropic programs to help meet the unfulfilled
be an activity area for kids. The event is free and open to the public.
needs of children and adults in the Kansas City area. These programs are funded primarily through proceeds of the all volunteer run thrift
store, THE ReSALE SHOP, which is located at 6601 N. Oak Trafficway in Gladstone. These programs, which assist local individuals, include
STUDENT’S CAPS WORK HELPS AREA BUSINESSES
Operation School Bell®, Operation Child in Need, I'm In Charge, Assault
When recent Park Hill South High School graduate Tanner Owen starts
Survivor Kits®, Operation Celebration, Operation Hug and Senior
college next year, he’ll have a definite advantage over many other students
Outreach Services. Grants and monetary donations also help fund
majoring in business and finance. Owen has already led an area company
these programs. To learn more about Assistance League of Kansas
through a successful small business loan.
City, go to the website, ALKC.org or follow on facebook.
CHAPEL RIDGE GRAND OPENING Chapel Ridge is Platte County's latest new home community fea-
Owen is one of over 300 students involved in the Northland Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS). Hailing from seven school districts in Clay and Platte counties, the students work with more than 250 Northland businesses, developing real-world skills and earning college credits.
turing 340 single family and maintenance provided homes priced
Owen worked with Midwest Small Business Finance. MSBF administers
from low $300s and up with community pools & clubhouse, fishing
SBA loans throughout Missouri, including the project recently headed by
ponds, parks, paved walking trails.
Owen in Richmond, Mo.
The staff invites the community to attend the grand opening kickoff on
Owen is no stranger to business. The son of Todd and Nicole Owen of
July 9th from 12-4 pm. This event is open to all, with free food and drinks,
Parkville, his father has run a home-based business for the last 25 years, and
as well as drawings for prizes/Royals tickets. You'll have the opportunity
his mother is a marketing director.
to meet our builders and tour the new homes. Music will be provided by
Owen’s CAPS work is one of six “strands” that range from his Global
Mix 93.3 DJ Ray. For the kids, a balloon artist and magician will appear. So
Business and Entrepreneurship to Medicine and Healthcare or Technology
grab an Arctic Shaved Ice snow cone and meet our community partners!
Solutions. After selecting a strand, students research three internship options
The event is located at 7210 NW Hampton Rd, Parkville, MO 64152. For
from the more than 200 companies that are cooperating with the program.
more information 816.777.5455, ChapelRidgeKC.com. CONTINUED >
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
WHEN CAN I
RETIRE?
Are you looking for the missing piece to your retirement plans? 57% of American workers have saved less than $25,000 for retirement and 28% have saved less than $1,000*. You don’t have to fall into the majority. Equity Financial Services Group is here to help you make the most of your employer-sponsored retirement plans and IRAs. Representatives are available by appointment at any Equity Bank location. Kansas City 6200 NW 63rd Terrace (816) 587-4322
Lee’s Summit • Overland Park
www.equityfsg.com INVEST Financial Corporation, member FINRA/SIPC. INVEST and its affiliated insurance agencies offer securities, advisory services and certain insurance products and are not affiliated with Equity Bank or Equity Financial Services Group. INVEST does not provide tax or legal advice. Products offered are: • Not FDIC insured • Not Bank Guaranteed • Not a Deposit • May lose value including loss of principal amount invested. * Employee Benefit Research Institute, 2015
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July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
17
Around Town
Need A Favorite Charity?
(CON TI N UED)
NORTH KANSAS CITY HOSPITAL AND NORTH KANSAS CITY YMCA ANNOUNCE GRAND OPENING OF THE NKCH WELLNESS CORNER North Kansas City Hospital (NKCH) and the North Kansas City YMCA
CFC’s independent audit confirmed 90.6% goes directly to our programs.
are pleased to announce the grand opening of the “NKCH Wellness Corner,” an open-concept gathering space designed to bring additional health and wellness programs to YMCA members in the Northland. With an emphasis on education and preventative care, the NKCH
Check out Patriot Outreach®, a grassroots charity combating Suicide, Stress and creating All Green Assisted Living Communities. Visit us online to learn more about our programs.
Wellness Corner provides complimentary wellness screenings, advice, and risk assessments to Y members on Wednesday and Friday mornings. Therapeutic massage services will soon be available by appointment. Additionally, the space serves as a meeting place for weekly NKCH educational sessions on health topics such as medication education, digestive and colon health, heart health and diabetes. The monthly Lunch and Learn Series hosted by the North Kansas City YMCA featuring NKCH physicians and healthcare professionals will continue to be free and open to the public. Through a partnership with the City of North Kansas City, the Y began operating the former North Kansas City Community Center as the North Kansas City YMCA in January 2015.
SIGN UP NOW FOR FALL SCOUTING Summer is the perfect time to plan for fall activities and to sign up now for Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Did you know that even though your son was not a Cub Scout, he can still join Boy Scouting now? Boys are welcome to join Scouting at any age. Designed for boys in Grade 1 - 5, Cub Scouting combines outdoor activities, sports and academics in a fun, exciting program designed to teach ideals like; honesty, good citizenship and respect. Boy Scouting is designed for boys in Grade 5 - 12, provides a foundation to stand on, to embrace opportunity and overcome obstacles. A foundation he can count on for where he’s going. And we believe that where he’s going is anywhere he wants. For more information about BSA Packs or Troops that meet near your home, visit Hoac-Bsa.org or call 816.942.9333.
Check out our May article here in Northland Lifestyle how we support local veterans!
LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER RAISES MONEY FOR RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
CFC Season starts September 1stFederal Employees please keep us in mind!
To celebrate summer, Gallery Portraiture is sponsoring a carnival for the public and guests of Ronald McDonald House Charities-KC. The "Carnival for a Cause" event is happening at Longfellow Park, July 23 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.. Plans are under way for this fun-filled afternoon.
#33784
Girl Scout Troop 3418 will be helping to plan and build the carnival games. Their participation aids them towards their
Patriot Outreach
Bronze Award. Belfonte has generously donated all of the ice
To donate or learn about our programs visit:
for children. The entire session fee, $49, will be donated to the Ronald
®
PatriotOutreach.org
or contact COL (R) Jack Shafferman at (913) 240-1261 18
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
cream for the event. Gallery Portraiture will be offering 15-minute portrait mini sessions McDonald House Charities of Kansas City to benefit families whose children are affected with life threatening illnesses. A limited edition set has been constructed with an ice cream shoppe theme.
While the carnival is FREE and open to all, limited portrait sessions are available. You must schedule an appointment. Please call 816.734.7272 to reserve your spot today.
WE’RE GROWING!
NEW DAY DAWNS AT NORTHLAND SERVICE CENTER With the cutting of a ribbon, Metro Lutheran Ministry’s services for Clay and Platte counties took a major step forward May 20. A new Northland Service Center has opened adjacent to St. James Lutheran Church, 1100 N.E. Vivion Road. Volunteers and staff now have a spacious and efficient location to help the Northland’s often overlooked needy families, including homeless families with children that are frequently all but invisible in this northern section of Kansas City. Like MLM’s services in Jackson and Wyandotte counties, the Northland location has included a food pantry and other emergency help since opening. But for 30 years, the location in a nearby, older home required boxes of food to be carried up flights of stairs and long lines of people waiting on a 50-foot raised walkway. The newly remodeled, former church section now includes a large pantry and space for a
Oakhill Day School is excited to embark on a 22,000 square foot expansion for Grades 4 - 8 scheduled to open in August of the 2016 - 2017 school year!
The Middle School program at Oakhill Day School provides a learning environment that reflects the needs of its students! By offering STEAM based electives, advisory groups, student government, honors programs, service learning, and increased responsibilities like daily recycling and composting, this challenging environment encourages students to explore, be well rounded, and embrace new life experiences. We invite you to come see how Oakhill Day School prepares Middle School students for success in high school and beyond.
walk-in freezer on the same floor as administrative areas. A large basement has been neatly finished to serve as a brand new Northland Learning to Earning Center. There, people who are unemployed can hone their job skills and use
For more information or to RSVP for one of our Admissions events, please contact:
LEAH GIPE
Director of Admissions leah.gipe@oakhilldayschool.org
center computers to complete job applications.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EVENTS
For more information, call (816) 931-0027 or visit MLMKC.org.
KENDALLWOOD CLUBHOUSE REMODELS AND REOPENS Curry Real Estate Services held a grand opening celebration for the newly remodeled Kendallwood Clubhouse on May 10. Curry
The Oakhill Day School Admissions Office is hosting Panther Playdates for children ages 2 to 5 (Prekindergarten)! These fun free gatherings are for new families, current families, and prospective families to attend. Panther Playdates are an easy and fun way for early childhood age children to connect with peers throughout the summer months and are a great way to learn more about Oakhill and the excellent education that we offer to even our youngest students!
Popsicles and Park Play! Thursday, June 16
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Oakhill Day School South Playground
Obstacle Course and Cookies! w/ Special Guest - Coach Ziggy
Saturday, July 9
10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Oakhill Day School Gymnasium
CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
19
Around Town
GALLERY QUALITY FRAMING AT WAREHOUSE PRICES.
(CON TI N UED)
employees were joined by community members, project partners, chamber representatives and Mayor Jean Moore to celebrated the completion of the project. Among the facility’s features are a fully equipped fitness center and exercise studio, a massage room, media room and business center, as well as a luxury outdoor pool and outdoor grilling station. The clubhouse common area features a comfortable lounge space with a fireplace, bar area, pool table and flat screen TVs. “We are so excited to have had the opportunity to reinvent this clubhouse space for the enjoyment of our Kendallwood residents,” says Ellen Todd, Curry Vice President and
CUSTOM FRAMING PRICES LOWER THAN CRAFT STORES.
We print your images for your framing.
facility manager. “This project represents an integral part of Curry’s mission—investing for the future. For Kendallwood, this new clubhouse helps assure that this community continues to be a great place to live.”
HILLCREST PLATTE COUNTY GOLF TOURNAMENT Did you know that the average age of a homeless person in this area is 7 years old? Hillcrest Platte County (HPC) helps working homeless families develop the skills necessary to be self-supporting---families who attend the Park Hill and Platte County School districts! HPC has fully furnished apartments where the families stay rent-free while they pay off debt and develop a savings to move into their own place. All within 3-4 months!! You can make a difference in their lives by playing golf!! On August 12th at The Deuce Golf Course there will be a lunch at 11:30 and shotgun start at 1:00 pm. Individual players fee is $125 which include the games. Corporate sponsorships are $650 and include a foursome and hole sponsorship. Everyone earns discounts at Epic Vision, the title sponsor of
8642 N. Boardwalk Avenue Kansas City, MO 64154
816-584-8009 www.afwkc.com
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
the event. Go to HillcrestPlatte.org/golf to register or sponsor. Hole sponsorships are still available!
YOUR BARRY ROAD SAVERS - 816.436.0411 2251 NW Barry Road, Kansas City, MO 64154
YOUR LIBERTY SAVERS - 816.792.4477
300 South Street-Rt. 291, Liberty, Missouri 64068
Now Open
Event Space
& Chapel at Piropos
BRIARCLIFF'S PIROPOS EXPANDS TO INCLUDE EVENT SPACE
I
n Argentina, when a compliment is given to a woman, it's called a piropo. First opened in 2001 in Parkville, Piropos Restaurant moved to the Northland's Briarcliff Village in 2006 with the Parkville location remaining as a banquet facility. Now celebrating a 10 year anniversary in the "new" Briarcliff location, Piropos is expanding downstairs with a remodeled banquet room and small but elegant wedding chapel.
"It makes a lot of sense. We now have everything in one spot. The Northland needs another banquet and wedding venue that's upscale and close to everything,” Sheila C. MacDonald, Piropos Marketing Consultant, says. Piropos is known throughout the area for their gourmet food with Argentinian flair and with the restaurant above the event space, it’s easy to cater. In addition, Piropos is centrally located in the metropolitan area and only a 15 to 25-minute drive from anywhere in Kansas City. "We have a lot of benefits for those interested in holding events, particularly brides, because our location is close to the airport, the
Sheila C. McDonald (right) is ready to handle all your gathering needs.
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
ARTICLE JENNIFER HIGGINS PHOTOGRAPHY JOEL SCHNEIDER
Marriott is across the street and we have our own parking right next to the building. The flexibility we're able to offer those hosting banquets and receptions is convenient for the guests and makes details easier for those planning the event. It's a whole new dimension with flexibility just not found in other venues. Hold the rehearsal dinner upstairs, the wedding in the downstairs chapel, open the doors and you’re in the reception area -- no driving from location to location,” MacDonald says.
MacDonald also points out that because Piropos is a highend restaurant known for the quality of their food and service, there's no need to hire outside services like catering, or renting tables, chairs and tableware. "It makes our pricing very competitive. That’s important in today's economy,” MacDonald says. With the addition of the downstairs area, there are now four distinct rooms that can serve from 10 to 125-150 guests with full CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
23
Now Open
(CON TI N UED)
facilities that include bar service areas and plenty of restrooms. Brides even have a separate lounge and dressing area that's located just behind the chapel area. "It's the perfect private place for the bride and attendants to prepare for the big event," MacDonald says. The rooms include the Pampas Room which holds up to 55 guests, the Patagonia room for smaller parties of 8 to 16 (also good for luncheon business meetings), the downstairs Buenos Aires Room for guest counts up to 125 and the already mentioned wedding chapel with a bride's area that can seat up to 100 to 110. "The food and atmosphere of any banquet or wedding location is a gift to the attending guests. It's a way of saying thank you for coming and that's why we work hard at Piropos Briarcliff to make sure everybody's happy. From our empanada appetizers through special entrees to our unique desserts, including the locally renowned house-made banana cake, we help make our event givers receive rave reviews from their guests,” MacDonald says. With numerous event spaces to choose from in both the Northland and downtown, MacDonald compares other event spaces to Piropos event space like the difference between a department store and a boutique with the latter able to give more attention to details that make events memorable. “We control the 'supply chain' from the setup of the room to the food and service staff. That means requests go to one person who manages the event. Prospective clients should talk to others who've used the facilities so far and to look at the many positive reviews online,” MacDonald says. Piropos Restaurant is open 7 days a week for dinner and Monday through Friday for lunch. "You can eat a good lunch with white tablecloths for less than $8, and our dinners start at the $22 level. Of course, you can spend a great deal more but I think Piropos is reasonably priced for what we are offering from the unique views (there are two outdoor patios) to the fine food and attentive service. We're very proud of this restaurant and hope you'll come visit not only for dinner or lunch but when you have that special event occasion. We think your guests will be pleased,” MacDonald says. And don't forget to give the bride a piropo.
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
August
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Giving Back
Northland Grandfamilies ARTICLE LISA ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL
F
ern Brashear says that everyone who knows her knows her story. One major part of that story: at 81, she’s one of approximately 4,000 older adults raising grandchildren in the Kansas City area. She’s already raised two grandchildren, one of whom is now a schoolteacher. Currently, two of her grandsons live with her: Patrick and Stephen, along with Stephen’s wife Camie and their 7-month-old son. “His name is Stephen Jackson, but we call him Jackson since his daddy’s name is also Stephen,” says Brashear. “He’s such a doll.” Brashear has found a community of peers and mentors in The Northland Grandfamilies Program, a partnership between Clay County Senior Services, the Platte County Senior Fund and the University of Missouri Extension Center in Clay County. “Fern illustrates the challenges the grandfamilies face and the many sacrifices they make for their families,” says Program Associate Christine Brunkow. The program, in existence since 2012, is designed to assist grandparents and other relatives raising children with issues that include legal concerns, financial burdens, and emotional and physical stress. There are currently more than 220 active clients— The Brashear clan-Top left to that number does not include the grandchildren, nieces or right, Camie Brashear, Patrick nephews that those in the program are raising. Hendren, Stephen Jackson. Bottom-Fern Brashear and grandson 'Jackson' Brashear
Alicia Redes, Senior Customer Relations Advisor with KCP&L speaks at a weekly support group meeting.
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
“What I really like is that it’s someplace for me to go to talk to people other than family about what we’re going through,” says Brashear. “We all help each other. We talk and give each other ideas. Everyone is friendly, everyone is helpful, and that’s what we all need so we can learn to cope.” Clients in the program range in age from mid-thirties to mid-eighties. Each is caring for grandchildren or other relatives because the parents of the children are experiencing issues that might include substance abuse, incarceration, or mental illness. In Missouri, there are more than 125,000 children under the age of 18 living with grandparents or other relatives. “Often a situation comes about suddenly when a parent can no longer care for a child or is unwilling to assume parental responsibilities,” says Brunkow. “The grandparents in the program form a strong bond with one another and are very willing to assist and support new members, encourage each other and share resources. The strength of the program is the support given and received at the meetings. The grandparents are very caring and compassionate individuals whose first priority are their grandchildren.” The program offers case management, including referrals to agencies such as Samuel Rodgers Health Center, Love, Inc., In As Much Ministries and the Clay County Clothes Closet. “Each month I refer approximately 25 individuals to agencies in the community. Resources are provided on clothing, utility assistance, food pantries, counseling, medical services and transportation,” says Brunkow. There are two support groups: a day program on the second Wednesday of each month at North Cross United Methodist Church and an evening program on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Platte Woods United Methodist Church. Free childcare is offered at the evening program and the meetings are free and open to any grandparent, aunt or uncle raising children who are 18 and younger. Those who attend the meetings share their stories and receive support from others in similar circumstances. There are also guest speakers at each meeting; topics range from legal issues like custody, guardianship and adoption to identity theft, risky behaviors of teens CONTINUED > and youth, brain health, and nutrition and fitness.
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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Giving Back
(CON TI N U ED)
Brashear calls the family she’s cultivated through the program “a private community” and says she’s met both people who understand what she’s going through and people who can help her navigate through specific issues. “They’re good people who listen, and they’re smart people who give good advice,” she says. The program also offers an annual conference, which will be held on October 14th at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty. The free event benefits grandparents, aunts and uncles raising relatives or family members 18 and younger and is open to professionals in the community, including clergy, teachers, counselors and other school personnel, and staff from social service and community agencies. Speakers and agencies from the metro area will share resources and information to help those who find themselves in the role of caregiver. To learn more about the program, meeting locations, and the conference, please call the University of Missouri Extension at 816.407.3490.
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Green Dirt Farm's cheese are available for sale at the Creamery's cheese counter.
GREEN DIRT FARM’S CREAMERY BRINGS THE FARM TO MARKET Weston is a destination for local cheese, wine, and bread. ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PETE DULIN
F Vox Vineyard's Tasting Room shares space with Green Dirt Farm's Creamery.
GREEN DIRT FARM CREAMERY
1099 Welt Street Weston, MO 64098 816.386.2156 GreenDirtFarm.com
ollow the dog-leg bend eastbound on Welt Street in Weston and just before the intersection with 45 Highway, there’s a delicious reason to pull off the road at Green Dirt Farm’s Creamery. The sheep farm, founded by Sarah Hoffmann and known for its award-winning cheeses, opened a retail space and tasting room in early June. Inside, the Creamery is home to a bounty of farm cheeses, sheep’s milk yogurt, ice cream, and local wine and bread. Hoffmann seized the opportunity to acquire the stone building, built in the late 1980s by a former winery, that houses the Creamery. The additional space establishes a retail-friendly footprint near historic downtown Weston and near the farm. The addition solves several challenges that hindered Green Dirt Farm from growing and prospering. Green Dirt’s base of operations on Mt. Bethel Road lies north of downtown Weston. An unpaved lane across rocky land and past lush pastures leads uphill to the farm. Farm staff tend to the sheep’s welfare, CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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GREEN DIRT FARM
(CON TI N U ED)
Green Dirt staff prepare sandwich orders in the kitchen.
Green Dirt Farm's Creamery was originally built in the late Eighties as a winery tasting room.
grazing, and milking. Head cheesemaker Rachel Kleine oversees production of sheep’s milk cheeses and yogurt. That hilly dirt road created challenges for delivery trucks that needed to navigate the treacherous road, load inventory, and ship to area retailers. “In wintertime when the road is icy, the trucks wouldn’t try to drive up,” says Hoffmann. “We’d have to bring pallets of product down to the base of the road by tractor.” As the farm’s production has steadily increased from 18,000 pounds of cheese in 2015 to a projected 25,000 pounds this year, the shipping/ loading issue needed to be resolved for more practical operations. Also, the propane-fueled farm wasn’t equipped for increased public traffic and parking for tours and events at its refurbished barn. The offsite building addressed Green Dirt’s production challenges for shipping and created the potential for an attractive storefront. “The building has a dock for shipping and loading, high-speed internet, and three-phase electrical power,” Hoffmann says. “We can use the Creamery as a production space.” Hoffmann had her eye on the building for eight years. Previously, a local lawyer acquired the building in 2004 from the winery which used the space as a tasting room and warehouse. Converted into an office space upstairs, the building had ample room below decks that interested Hoffmann. “I spoke with the owner about using the basement as an aging space for cheese,” Hoffmann says, “but it didn’t work out. In summer 2015, I thought about the farm’s production challenges and wished for that building.” On a whim, Hoffmann decided to drive by the building. The lawyer had taken down the law office sign with plans to relocate. He was on the premises and planned to put the building on the market the next day when Hoffmann pulled into the drive. They later agreed to a deal and Green Dirt’s expansion was underway. The new space features warm wood floors and beams, a counter for display of cheeses, a small kitchen for making and serving sandwiches and charcuterie plates, and even locally-made ice cream. The basement is used for shipping and loading. A labor-saving conveyor belt eases and speeds off-loading of hundreds of pounds of milk. To supplement sheep’s 32
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
33
GREEN DIRT FARM
(CON TI N U ED)
milk from Green Dirt, Hoffmann has sourced cow’s milk from Amish farmers in Stanberry and Bethany, Missouri, to use in production. A blast freezer behind the building is capable of freezing perishable surplus milk in 12 hours. “Sheep are seasonal milk producers,” says Hoffmann. “We can now store milk year-round. The Amish farmers share the same values on animal welfare, organic practices, and environmental sustainability.” That increased inventory enables Green Dirt Farm to expand production and achieve sustainability as a small dairy farm, where growth is vital for economic survival. “We have to grow to be a sustainable business, where we can provide a living for our employees, versus being a hobby,” says Hoffmann. “We sell retail in volume direct to consumers and via distributors and cheesemongers throughout the Midwest.” Kansas City area customers and tourists can now visit the Creamery and buy direct from the source. Purchase of Green Dirt’s cheeses, such as bloomy rind Dirt Lover, firm Aux Arc, a blend of cow’s and sheep’s milk cheese dubbed Ruby, as well as its Only Ewe yogurt, supports the farm’s operations. Hoffmann is also excited about the array of ice cream developed by cheesemaker Kleine in stock and rotating flavors such as clementine thyme, vanilla, dark chocolate, and brown butter pecan. Chef and cheesemonger Pat McCroy oversees the Creamery’s kitchen and retail counter. The Creamery offers a selection of grilled cheeses, sandwiches, and cheese and charcuterie boards. The Stinky One is a grilled cheese blend of Green Dirt’s Bossa, Swiss, and provolone. The I’m So Fancy sandwich combines lamb and pork pate, Aux Arc cheese, dill pickles, and stoneground mustard on a Hearth baguette. Hearth Bread Company, operated by pastry chef Dylan Low, is located a few minutes away from the Creamery on Missouri 45 Highway. The Creamery sells loaves of Hearth’s sourdough and other breads along with Askinosie Chocolate from Springfield, Missouri, local honey, and other products. What’s cheese without wine? The Creamery is also home to Terra Vox Vineyard’s Tasting Room. The winery, also based in the Northland, produces superior wines from North American heritage grapes such as Lenoir, Wetumka, Norton, and Cloeta. The award-winning wines are sophisticated with a broad range of aromas and flavors that transcend the cloying sweetness often associated with wines made from native grapes. Guests may sample wine, buy a bottle, and indulge with a hearty sandwich or platter of cheese, meats, preserves, and bread. The Creamery and Tasting Room unites many of the desirable and edible products that artisans from Weston and the region have to offer. There’s no reason to be sheepish about making the brief drive north to support local farmers, bakers, and winemakers one bite and sip at a time. The I'm So Fancy Sandwich features lamb and pork pate with Aux Arc cheese, dill pickles, and stoneground mustard. 34
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Hearth Baking Co. pastry chef and baker Dylan Low bakes bread at his shop only minutes from the Creamery.
Loaves from Weston-based Hearth Baking Co. are for sale at the Creamery.
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Myriad possibilities await to the north of the Northland ARTICLE PETE DULIN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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Eat, Drink Explore in
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St. Paul, Minnesota 36
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
s summer heats up, the cooler climes of the Upper Midwest make St. Paul, Minnesota, an enticing summer destination for families or a couples’ getaway. The 6.5-hour drive from Kansas City is a road trip that can be accomplished in one day. En route, stop at Van Dee’s Ice Cream Shop in Johnston, Iowa, north of West Des Moines and a short hop from I-35 for a cool treat or Walk’n Tacos, bags of Doritos filled with taco fillings. Once in St. Paul, the city has no shortage of fun places for explorers to eat, drink, and find adventure. GANGSTER TOURS
Anyone fascinated by criminal minds may want to investigate dangerous outlaws like Prohibition-era gangster John Dillinger, who helped to shape St. Paul’s history in the 1930s. Costumed guides assume local gangster identities and share tales of their unlawful lives and the era’s criminal justice
The Lowertown Dining District is a hip, neighborly section of downtown with a wide selection of eateries, bars and proximity to CHS field, home of the St. Paul Saints baseball team. For adventurous eaters, try Saint Dinette (SaintDinette.com) with Frenchmeets-Midwest dishes that include octopus with chorizo, duck tartar, fried smelt, shrimp and grits, and beignets. Big River Pizza’s (BigRiverPizza.com) wood-fired oven cooks up pies such as Proud Mary with classic tomato, mozzarella, and basil, the self-explanatory Bacon Jam Slam, a Red Rooster breakfast pizza, and more traditional offerings. Oxcart Ale House (OxcartAleHouse.com) serves pub-style eats like housemade sausages, burgers, salads, and cheese curds, and, of course, beer. Head for the rooftop patio with views of CHS Field, Mississippi River bluffs, and the State Capitol. BREWERY BOUND
St. Paul and Minneapolis are teeming with local breweries to tour. Founded three decades ago, Summit Brewing Company (SummitBrewing.com) draws guests on Fridays and Saturdays, 4
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GET DOWN AND DINE IN LOWERTOWN
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system. A tour includes a visit to the Landmark Center, formerly the Saint Paul courthouse. $6/person. Two-week advance reservation required. LandmarkCenter.org/visit/tours.htm
to 9 pm, in Ratskeller Hall. Grab a bite from onsite food trucks. The brewery offers free hour-long tours (10 people per group) from Tuesday through Saturday. Advance reservations required. Bad Weather Brewing (BadWeatherBrewery.com), near Summit Brewing in the West Seventh Street area, is a taproom with house beers and sodas. Local food trucks serve their specialties Thursdays through Saturdays. Diehard craft beer lovers may book a guided tour on a luxury coach bus to area breweries through Twin Cities Brewery Tours (TCBreweryTours.com). TAKE ME TO THE RIVER
St. Paul’s extensive riverfront provides ample opportunity to explore the outdoors and wildlife in the 72-mile Mississippi National River & Recreation Area (NPS.gov/miss/index.htm). Camping, fishing, boating, geocaching, hiking, and canoeing are only a few activities to enjoy on an expedition. National park rangers at the Fort Snelling State Park Visitor Center and Mississippi River Visitors Center can provide guidance on scenic sites and park resources. CULTURAL EXCHANGE
St. Paul and its bigger sister city Minneapolis have no shortage of arts and culture to discover. “What’s Up, Doc? The Animation Art of Chuck Jones” runs at the Minnesota History Center (MinnesotaHistoryCenter.org) through August 14. Family-friendly exhibition Blooming Butterflies offers visitors a total immersion experience at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory (ComoZooConservatory.org) through September 5. Listed on the National Register of Historical Buildings, the historic Cathedral of Saint Paul is open Tuesday - Friday for guided tours. Completed in 1891, the James J. Hill House CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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GO NORTH TO EAT, DRINK, AND EXPLORE ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
(CON TI N UED)
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providing premium service for guests. Conveniently, the hotel is near the Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport, Mall of America, Minnesota Children’s Museum, Science Museum, Ordway Theatre, Cathedral of St. Paul, and other attractions.
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REST AND RELAX
For travelers that wish to be pampered, stay at The Saint Paul Hotel (SaintPaulHotel.com). The historic hotel’s scenic views of the Mississippi River are unmatched. Whether staying in one of 254 rooms, including 31 luxury suites, the hotel staff excel at Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
ul
life during the Gilded Age for Hill, who built the Great Northern Railway, his family, and servants in the five-floor red sandstone mansion.
it Visit Saint Pa
(Sites.MNHS.org/historic-sites/james-
j-hill-house) tour gives visitors a glimpse of
38
Minnesota History Center Credit Dan Anderson
These destinations for dining, drinking, learning and entertainment are only a few of the many options available in St. Paul. Possibilities abound for outdoor jaunts, romantic escapades, family adventures and enough material to fill a class paper on “How I Spent My Summer.” Get ready to pack the bag and hit the road.
St. Paul skyline. credit Visit St. Paul July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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On the Road with Lani Local photographer discovers America ARTICLE RACHEL C. MURPHY PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
F
or some artists, the impetus to create comes from the outside. Such was the case with photographer Lani Odell. Odell has been one of the primary photographers for Northland Lifestyle for several years now but she does much more than just portraits. She's a traveler, a wanderer with an eye for color and the yearning to see the parts of the world that many don't have the opportunity to see. Odell was first given a camera by a friend's mother.
"She said that I had an eye for photography and should give it a shot. I started taking photos and it just snowballed from there," says Odell. As Odell started traveling more, she started finding more of the things that inspired her--simple tableaus that many may have missed. Her photos reflect a kind of nostalgic Americana with life among the National Parks and on the scenic byways of the country that many have yet to explore. "I've been told that I notice the things that many people miss. When I go out with someone to take photos, I tend to focus on the subjects that are not as eye catching. I like texture and color. For the photo of the truck, we had to take a lot of side roads and I just spotted that and had to tramp back to it. CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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ON THE ROAD WITH LANI
(CON TI N U ED)
Whatever draws you as an artist is what you have to go with," she says. She has her favorites, of course. "Sunsets and sunrises are my favorites. I will chase a sunset for an hour, trying to find the highest vantage point and get the perfect shot. Doing that gives me more than a perfect photo. It just cleanses my soul," says Odell.
She also feels a responsibility to draw the viewer into the photo, no matter where it is. "I feel really lucky to be able to travel and see the world. There are so many people that don't get to do any of that. I just feel so much gratitude to be able to do what I do and see the things that I'm able to see," she says. Odell has learned along the way. Most of her business is comprised of portraiture, animals, and weddings. After interning with some of the best wedding photographers in town, she has built a steady business but she still tries to make landscape and travel photography a part of her life. To see more of Lani's work , visit her at CapturedByLaniMichelleKC.com
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
The Expressions Art Series provides opportunities for artists with disabilities to overcome barriers that may keep them from showing their art in a professional setting.
Expressions is presented with support from
June to August 2016 5th Anniversary Retrospective Leawood Pioneer Library 4700 Town Center Drive, Leawood
CALL FOR ARTISTS Apply by August 1, 2016 at link below
October 7, 2016 6th Annual Expressions Art Exhibition The Arts Asylum 1000 E. 9th Street, KCMO
Connecting people with disabilities to the resources they need to live independently
Learn more! 816-561-0304 | thewholeperson.org/Expressions July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
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Road Trip
A Summer Vacay
to the Beaches of North Carolina
SURFING, BOOGIE BOARDING AND BUILDING SAND CASTLES
I
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY DIANA LAMBDIN-MEYER AND PROVIDED
Fihing piers, jutting out into the Atlantic, are common on the North Carolina beaches and make great playgrounds as well as fun photos. Photo by Wilmington CVB 46
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
f “Little Shop of Horrors” is one of your favorite movies, or if you are old enough to remember the TV show “WKRP in Cincinnati,” you have a basic, if not inaccurate and comedic, familiarity with the Venus flytrap. If you’re a nerdy flower geek, like Rick Moranis’ character Seymour or if you just like soothing walks in the forest or along the beach, you will certainly enjoy a visit to Carolina Beach State Park on North Carolina’s southern coast, one of the few remaining places in the world where the Venus flytrap grows in the wild. Yes, the Venus flytrap is a real plant, but unlike Audrey II, it thrives on the sandy soil of North Carolina, not human blood. The Venus Flytrap Trail indeed attracts people from around the world, but most visitors come to the Carolina coast for the beaches – more than 25 miles of beautiful sandy beaches and the surf of the Atlantic Ocean beyond. Carolina Beach, Wrightsville Beach and Kure Beach represent the best in a summer vacation experience. There are endless opportunities for us Midwesterners to learn to surf, boogie board or fly a kite. Spend an afternoon fishing, kicking a soccer ball around, building a sand castle, or just reading in the sun. It’s a low-key vacation experience with days highlighted by ice cream and fudge shops, a bike ride or outings on a sailboat. These are barrier islands, but are not to be confused with North Carolina’s Outerbanks several hundred miles north. If you want to experience the place where Orville and Wilbur Wright’s first achieved human flight, you won’t find that here. Nor will you find the wind that made human flight possible. Less wind, equally fabulous beaches – that’s why you head south through the city of Wilmington on the Cape Fear peninsula. Remember the 1991 movie “Cape Fear” with Nick Nolte, Robert De Niro and Jessica Lange? It was actually shot in Florida, but today Wilmington is known
Kids taking surfing lessons on Wrightsville Beach NC. Photo by Wilmington CVB.
Within 15 minutes of the Wilmington NC airport, you'll find 25 miles of beautiful sand beaches.
as Hollywood East for the number of production companies and movies shot here. Dawson’s Creek is one, as well as the Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, Sleepy Hollow, the Secret Life of Bees, Super Mario Brothers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland, and on and on. Today, the Cape Fear River is the permanent home of the Battleship North Carolina, a WWII ship that fought in the battles of Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima. Visiting it is a favorite activity for many who visit the Wilmington area, but note that the ship was not then, nor is it now, air-conditioned. Downtown Wilmington is a history lesson in itself – 20 blocks of pre-Civil War era homes, shops and inns. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride to learn details of many of the homes and which have been used in movie settings. Or spend a leisurely afternoon with a platter of oysters and a nice bottle of wine on the patio of one of the many restaurants situated on the banks of the Cape Fear River.
The Battleship North Carolina in the background from a restaurant dock on the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington. Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer
From downtown Wilmington, you can reach three or four beautiful beaches within about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Two of the deciding yet lesser studied battles of the Civil War were fought here at what is now Fort Fisher State Historic Site. When it fell to the Union Army in January 1865, it cut the last supply line for the Confederate Army and the fate of the Confederacy was sealed. It’s a nice history lesson and some good exercise to walk the grounds of the 1.5 mile earthen fortification. And the best part – like all North Carolina historic sites – it’s free to the public. Lodging is affordable and very family-friendly in this part of the world. Many people choose to rent a beach house, but if a traditional hotel experience is your choice, consider the Blockade Runner on Wrightsville Beach.
CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
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Road Trip
(CON TI N U ED)
The battle at Fort Fisher, now a state historic site, was a fatal blow for the Confederacy in 1865. Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer
Playing in the sand on the beaches of North Carolina. Photo by Wilmington DVB
It’s family-owned and has been around for more than 50 years, although the décor is as modern as the Hunger Games “capitol” furniture in the lobby. The Blockade Runner is also one of the few lodging options that offers a pool as well as miles of beach, just in case you like the option. And there’s a children’s program and babysitting for those who are traveling with all ages. For more information on planning your Carolina Beaches getaway, visit WilmingtonandBeaches.com or call 877.406.2356.
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Some of the antebellum homes found in the 20 block historic district of Wilmington. Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer
Carolina Beach State Park is home to a Venus Fly Trap Trail, one of few places in the world where the odd plant grows wild. Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer
Fort Fisher State Historic Site documents a decisive Civil War battle here that ended the war just four months later. Photo by Diana Lambdin Meyer
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49
Locally Owned
MICHAEL C. BYARS, DDS
9051 NE 81st Terrace Suite 210 Kansas City, Missouri 64158 816.336.2439 ByarsDental.com
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
LOCALSmile EXPERT USES HIS EXPERTISE
TOBrighten THE LIVES OF OTHERS THERE'S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO CAUSE A SMILE
ARTICLE PEGGY PAROLIN PHOTOGRAPHY LANI ODELL
K
ansas City dentist Michael Byars, D.D.S., is committed to smiles. Whether it’s through application of his dental expertise, his extensive work in the community, or by engaging his staff in cheek-retractor bubble blowing, you won’t find anyone who has more fun taking his job seriously. Byars began his practice in Kansas City twelve years ago. He spent the majority of the first three years working for Miles of Smiles, a non-profit, school based dental program that provides free dental care to children who do not have access to oral health services. “I found tremendous satisfaction and experienced great personal growth through serving children who may not otherwise ever have a chance to see a dentist. Many of us take for granted being able to live our lives free of debilitating mouth pain,” says Byars. “My colleagues and I at Miles of Smiles were able to help many children who dealt with this pain on a regular basis. The immediate appreciation and happiness shown towards us by the children we treated was extremely satisfying!” Byars and his wife Lundy also volunteer for the YMCA Challenger program. For the past 10 years, they’ve worked with children and adults with special needs, serving as athlete buddies and coaches, and assisting with fundraising. While volunteering for the Challenger program, the Byars have coached tee ball, soccer, flag football, basketball, tennis, and bowling. Currently, they are coaching a tee ball team at the Challenger Complex in the Northland. “We enjoy donating our time to Challenger,” comments Byars. “We’ve made countless lifetime friends from our association with the program.”
Byars’ exemplary work outside the office is equal only by that of the work inside his office. He found his current dental “home” nine years ago and established his practice in Liberty based on satisfying a single principle: What is in the patient’s best interest? “This question is at the heart of every recommendation,” Byars explains. “We use this thought process when we make every decision in the practice from what treatment options we are recommending to the decision to refer the patient to a specialist or to treat the patient in our office. If we have a patient that is well informed about the problems that we find, all of their treatment options to address those problems, the pros/cons of each of those treatment options, the consequences of inaction and a timeframe by which things will change, we have a patient that is involved in their treatment and this is why so many of our patients choose to stay with our practice long term and cite our trustworthiness as their reason to stay. “ Byars’ believes his practice stands out among the other dental practices in that his is a privately owned practice unlike many of the ‘corporate' dental practices that have popped in the area in recent years. “We have a practice where we dedicate much more time and individualized attention than most patients are used to," comments Byars. “We have a team that continually strives to deliver the very best customer service and individual attention to every single patient and that is why our patient following is so loyal and trusting.” It’s not unusual for patients to describe their dental visit with such comments as, “I’ve never had such a thorough or comfortable experience at the dentist.” CONTINUED >
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
51
Locally Owned
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Dr. Byars' dance skills are just as sharp as his dentistry skills.
That comfortable experience may well be enhanced by the humor Byars infuses in his work to make the overall dental experience a memorable one. While Byars does take his work seriously, he brings fun to the workplace every day. It’s not unusual for staff members to see him dancing down the hallway or hear him joking with patients but the quality of the work remains the same. “The quality of the experience and the dental work that is completed in this office is of utmost importance to every single team member. We strive to deliver the type of experience that people can tell their family and friends about.” To call Byars a smile expert is no understatement. In addition to general dentistry, he also offers special services such as implant placement and restoration, cosmetic dentistry, including porcelain veneers and crowns, and comprehensive periodontal care. He offers a diagnostic wax up prior to cosmetic services, allowing the patient to see what the final result will be before anything is permanently done (this step is often skipped in other practices). Does your smile need work? Call the expert.
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53
Lifestyle Calendar
July THROUGH AUGUST 17 MADAGASCAR-A MUSICAL ADVENTURE
JULY 16 & 17 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL AVONDALE UNITED METHODIST Avondale United Methodist Church is excited to offer an incredible Vacation Bible School weekend filled with excitement and unforgettable adventure! Two full days of activities include rock wall climbing, Euro Bungee, games, lunch and Bible studies. Ages 7-12 welcome. Admission is free.
THE COTERIE-CROWN CENTER
JULY 16
It’s the world premiere of a new musical for all ages of the much-
ELTON DAN & THE ROCKET BAND/HEATWAVE
loved madcap journey from New York’s Central Park Zoo to the
LINDEN SQUARE
beaches of Madagascar. See Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Mel-
Elton Dan and the Rocket Band is comprised of seasoned musicians
man the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo and the always-plotting penguins.
from the Kansas City area who have come together to take you on
Their journey goes from the wilderness to just plain wild with King
a musical journey highlighting the multi-decade career of the leg-
Julien. TheCoterie.org.
endary Elton John. Performing numerous hits will remind you of how
JULY 2 - AUGUST 2 NEW NEIGHBORS KC NORTHLAND MONTHLY
relevant and timeless Elton John's songwriting has remained over the course of his career.
WELCOME COFFEE
JULY 20
TIFFANY GREENS COMMUNITY CENTER
PARKVILLE LADIES NIGHT OUT AND OPEN HOUSE
Come meet your new neighbors at our monthly coffee meeting,
WESTON FAMILY CLINIC & MEDICAL SPA (NEW PICTURE
held on the first Tuesday of each month. For information please
HILLS LOCATION AT 6410 N COSBY AVE)
visit NewNeighborsKansasCity.org.
Our faces tell a story - what is yours saying? Give yourself permission
JULY 7
to explore rejuvenating your youthful appearance! Meet Dr. Keith and her esthetician and learn how to turn back the clock with cosmetic
BRAIN BALANCE OPEN HOUSE
injections and laser spa treatments. Grab a girlfriend and come pam-
BRAIN BALANCE ZONA ROSA
per yourself! Complimentary food, drinks, door prizes, and great spe-
Join Brain Balance for an informal "Information Night" on the first
cials! WFCMedSpa.com.
Thursday of every month at 6PM. Come learn more about the Brain Balance program and take a tour of the center.
JULY 20 - 23 153RD ANNUAL PLATTE COUNTY FAIR THE PLATTE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS Come enjoy a huge carnival, queen contest, youth talent showcase, 4-H exhibits, arts and crafts, horse and mule shows, annual demolition derby, mud-a-thon, Central States Summer Demo Derby, Lucas Oil Truck & Tractor Pull, food vendors and live music nightly. PlatteCountyFair.com
JULY 9 WESTON DOG DAYS OF SUMMER DOGGIE PARADE AND PET PHOTO CONTEST MAIN STREET-DOWNTOWN WESTON All proceeds will go to the ASPCA on the Second Saturday of July when Weston hosts the First Annual Dog Days of Summer Pet Photo Contest, Doggie Parade and Costume Contest. Any pet can be entered into the contest. The fee is $10 per photo, one entry per pet. Photos must be at least 4” x 6” and in color. 54
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
JULY 23 6TH ANNUAL STRAWBERRY SWING THE HISTORIC ALEXANDER MAJORS BARN & GROUNDS Come join the fun at Kansas City's #1 Indie Craft Fair! 95+ Handmade & Vintage Vendors, Food Trucks, Live Music, Photo Booth, Kid's Crafts, Lil Entrepreneurs. Admission is always free! The first 100 guests to bring a monetary donation for our Non-Profit will receive a coveted swag bag full of items our makers have donated!
JULY 30 ARTS JAM MORNING DAY CAFE Celebrate this month's artist with the once a month Arts Jam. Enjoy cocktails and night bites after dark at Morning Day Cafe.
JULY 21
AUGUST 12
GLADSTONE COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR
THE GLOBAL ORPHAN PROJECT BIG EVENT
GLADSTONE COMMUNITY CENTER
THEATER IN THE PARK--SHAWNEE MISSION PARK
North Kansas City Hospital health professionals invite you to come dis-
Join us as we enjoy a casual summer evening of friendship, live mu-
cuss your health concerns at the Gladstone Community Center. We’ll
sic, and local food trucks, all supporting local children in crisis. Bring
perform a fasting lipid blood test (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and tri-
your friends to hear inspiring stories of generosity and joy, as we give
glycerides) and check your blood pressure. You can chat one-on-one
thanks for the past year and share the vision for the year to come.
with a doctor, who will review your results and answer your health-re-
Learn more and buy tickets at GOProject.org/BIGEvent.
lated questions. Register at NKCH.org.
July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
55
business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY
Art & Frame WarehouseNorthland (816) 584-8009 afwkc.com
BANKING
Bank Liberty (816) 407-9200 banklibertykc.com
CHARITIES & FUNDRAISERS
Assistance League of Kansas City (816) 455-4485 ALKC.org Heartland Habitat For Humanity (RESTORE) (913) 648-6001 heartlandhabitat.org/restore Patriot Outreach (866) 967-8766 patriotoutreach.org Savers in Liberty (816) 792-4477 savers.com The Whole Person (816) 627-2220 thewholeperson.org
CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING The Nibble Nook, LLC (816) 560-9270 thenibblenook.com
DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Dentistry for Children (816) 548-3400 kidsdentistkc.com
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Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
Dr Michael Byars DDS (816) 781-8222 byarsdental.com/northland
Complete Hardscapes LLC (816) 984-0525 completehardscapes.com
Gordon Dental (816) 505-2222 kcgordondental.com
Midwest Lifetime Roof Systems (913) 393-3008 lifetimeroofsystems.com
EDUCATION
College Nannies & Tutors (816) 256-5907 collegetutors.com/parkvillemo Oakhill Day School (816) 436-6228 oakhilldayschool.org
ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION
Hot Spot Pools & Spas, LLC (816) 781-8884 libertyhottub.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Equity Bank (816) 587-4322 bankpuppet.com
Pinnacle Plus Financial (913) 254-3030 pplusadvisors.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
INSURANCE
American Family Insurance Toby Breedlove (816) 468-1300
LANDSCAPING
Rock And Wall Landscape (816) 392-7262 rockandwalllandscape.com
LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE
REAL ESTATE
The Rob Ellerman Team Reece & Nichols Realtors (816) 304-4434 therobellermanteam.com Wolfe~Sweeney & Courtney (Reece & Nichols) (816) 746-2777 wolfesweeney.com
MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES
SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES
Fairway Eye Center (913) 491-9123 fairwayeyecenter.com Liberty Orthopedics (816) 781-6066
HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS
Pediatric Care North (816) 587-3200 pediatriccarenorth.com
Budget Blinds of the Northland and Kansas City (816) 505-5515 budgetblindskc.com
The Missing Link KC (816) 599-8577 TheMissingLinkKC.com
Woodneath Farms A Hunt Midwest Community (816) 781-7925 huntmidwestkc.com
North Kansas City Hospital (816) 691-2000 nkch.org
HOME SERVICES
Meyers Funeral Chapel (816) 741-0251 meyersfuneralchapel.com
Precision Collision Center (816) 781-9630 precisioncollisionkc.com
Epic Vision Eye Centers (816) 749-7755 epicvisioneyecenters.com
SunSource Homes (816) 783-3863 SunSourceHomes.net
OTHER
Weston Family Clinic & Medical Spa (816) 640-2762 wfcmedspa.com
Senior Helpers (816) 455-9300 seniorhelpers.com/kansascitynorth Stonecrest at Burlington Creek (816) 505-3030 stonecrestatburlingtoncreek.com
SPECIALTY SHOPS Quilters Station (816) 525-8955 quiltersstation.com
TRAVEL & LEISURE
Cruise Holidays/Comfort Tours (816) 741-7417 kansascity.cruiseholidays.com
LET US HELP PROTECT YOUR DREAMS. TOBY BREEDLOVE AGENCY 9570 N McGee St Ste B Kansas City, MO 64155 (816) 468-1300 tbreedlo@amfam.com
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www.QuiltersStation.com July 2016 | Northland Lifestyle
57
Parting Thoughts
The Sunroom WORDS RACHEL C. MURPHY
T
his is not a story about travel. It's a story about the things that we put off in order to travel and what happens when we focus. My husband is a builder. He's one of those people that sees visions of greatness where none currently exist. That's how he bought his house in the Northland. He chose a home that had been foreclosed on with furry mold and standing water in the basement and a 'bonus' room, as they would say on House Hunters, on the back of the house. What was there was a nightmarish mess of hodge-podge add-ons completed over the years by people with no business holding a hammer. What he saw was a sleek, mid-century modern cottage, the blank slate for all of his design ideas. He bought his home in 2008 and immediately got to work, rearranging staircases, building bathrooms, and vanquishing mold that might have cured cancer. He was focused. He was industrious. In 2009, he met me, a free-spirited, travel-addicted writer. He got distracted. We got married in 2010. We continued working on the house but worked on our finances as well, paying down debt and then rewarding
58
Northland Lifestyle | July 2016
ourselves with trips to exotic places. He loved to travel and we travel well together. We made memories as a couple that can never be replaced but the years crept on and little was done to the house. One project in particular was a big goal--the sunroom. The addition on the back of the house was falling off. No foundation had been laid and the ground had settled after it was built, creating a volunteer skylight in one corner. The roof was sagging and the ceiling had partially caved in and it was filled with. . . stuff. There's no other word for it. But he saw a bright, airy room that would function as a sleeping porch and sunroom, a place where we could relax and enjoy nature without the annoyance of mosquitoes. He said he thought it would cost about $500 to fix since he could reuse most of the materials. I laughed and said, 'We'll see". Fast forward to last summer. The project began and almost immediately we realized that the structure was in even worse shape than we had imagined. Termite damage. Bad wiring. Nonsensical building materials. Terrible roofing. It was all there. But with the help of his father, my husband took it in stride and tore it down to the ground, poured a proper concrete pad and started raising the structure that would become the sunroom. Spoiler alert--it cost more than $500. Fast forward almost a year. In the past year, we took trips and made memories but they were more conservative, as we saved money for insulated windows, architectural shingles and what seemed like miles of drywall and planking for the ceiling. We spent weekends working--he on a ladder, me in the kitchen cooking for him and his volunteer crew of our friends and family members (thank you, everyone!). And now, nearly a year has past and I'm sitting, typing away in the bright airy room that houses a set of vintage furniture, a day bed, and a breakfast nook, working in the artificial outside of our room. What my husband has--vision--is what I lack. And what I have-follow through--is what he lacks. And what we have together is the teamwork to make a $500 project turn into a $10,000 addition to our house that we both adore. We sacrificed our time for a while but his vision was sustained from the first time that he set foot in this house. He didn't know that I would be in it or that our soon to be born daughter would play on its floor, of course, but we never really know those things. Sometimes visions are incomplete. If we knew exactly what we were waiting for, the payoff wouldn't be as satisfying. For us, the payoff is not just space, but the experience of working together on a project so immense that it seemed overwhelming at times. Looking back, we can barely remember the disaster that it was. We only know the joy and happiness that will exist in it now. And that's a pretty great payoff.
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Meyers Funeral Chapel northland We are proud to announce the addition of Brad Preston to our Meyers Funeral Chapel Family. Brad is a Northland native and has been serving families in this area for 30 years. It is with great confidence that I can honestly say “We have assembled the finest, most genuine team of funeral professionals in the Northland.” - Todd DeMint
Todd DeMint & Brad Preston
Tyler Stingley & Loretta Temple
As we near the end of our eighth 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