Johnson County, KS October 2019

OCTOBER 2019

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

FOODIE AND BREW ISSUE

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

OCTOBER 2019 EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@lifestylepubs.com DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Paul Versluis | paul.versluis@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Frank Flores | frank.flores@lifestylepubs.com

Letter from the Editor MANY OF LIFE’S CHERISHED MOMENTS WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND COLLEAGUES ARE SHARED AROUND A TABLE ENJOYING FOOD OR DRINKS AND

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Lisa Moyer, Nicci Lavine, Bethany Drobeck, Riley Cowing, Adriane Taylor CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paul Versluis, Janie Jones

SPENDING TIME WITH ONE ANOTHER. For my busy family, the table is one spot where we gather every evening to talk about our day in-between the demands of our schedules. It is a time to connect.

Food often holds very special memories, and just the aroma can evoke emotions or moments from times past. The smell of a warm cinnamon apple crisp takes me right back to my mom’s kitchen in the fall. Nutmeg reminds me of my husband’s grandmother who believed almost everything tasted better with a little bit of nutmeg sprinkled in.

My most treasured food memory that conjures the strongest emotion isn’t fancy in the slightest, but holds countless memories of time spent at my granddad’s kitchen table— a freshly baked cake made from a boxed mix in a 9x13 pan with canned frosting.

My grandpa was widowed at 56 and lived down the street from my childhood home, so we

CORPORATE TEAM

spent a lot of time at his house. We always knew that he would have a cake on his counter

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

ready for us to enjoy. I walked down to my granddad’s house a couple times a week for a visit,

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

and he always offered a slice of cake, a chat on the porch and sometimes a pickup game of

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Ping-Pong. This tradition went on long after my childhood until my granddad passed.

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Still to this day, I smile and get a little choked up when I pass the boxed cake section at the grocery store. A lifetime of rich moments with my granddad happened over a slice of cake, and the mere thought of it brings me right back to the sights and smells of his kitchen.

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Our October issue is dedicated to food. We asked a few prominent local residents about their favorite food memories, and we are sharing that with you. We also wanted to highlight a few of our favorite eateries around town as well as recipes for you to enjoy.

Here’s to fall and all the tastes and smells that come with the season!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Angela Broockerd, Editor Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com

ON THE COVER Boulevard Brewing Company 6

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County areas’ 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 Johnson County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Better Living By Design KANSAS CITY, KS | KANSAS CITY, MO

INSIDE THE ISSUE OCTOBER 2019

FEATURES 14 Louie's Wine Dive Exquisite bites and vine

28 Comfort Food Matt Besler shares his go-to favorites in the kitchen

36 The evolution of Boulevard Local tap makes it's mark nationally

36 14

46 Cherished Aspirations African Dream Cuisine

28

46

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Driver’s Notebook

14

Hot Spot

20 Giving Back 36 Local’s Choice 42 Financial Buzz 46 Food & Wine 50 Lifestyle Calendar 51

Realty Report

AUDI SHAWNEE MISSION

DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK

10

ARTICLE ALAN GOFORTH | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

REVS UP SELECTION AND SERVICE WITH MOVE TO NEW LOCATION IN MERRIAM

AUDI OWNERS LOVE THEIR CARS BECAUSE OF

premium brand,” general manager John Coats says.

THEIR QUALITY, STYLE AND PERFORMANCE.

“The city of Merriam has done a great job in devel-

Now they can enjoy unmatched selection and ser-

oping the area, and we wanted to be a part of it. The

vice in a new location that reflects the popular brand.

new location offers customers a convenience that

Audi Shawnee Mission recently moved to 6601 E.

cannot be found anywhere else in the Kansas City

Frontage Road in Merriam. The dealership now has

metro area. We have to deliver a customer expe-

nearly 37,000 square feet of space to accommodate the

rience that sets us apart and takes us back to our

largest inventory of new and preowned cars in the state.

core values and principles that guide us every day.”

“We continue to grow, and we wanted to be able to

The new facility was designed from the ground

offer the amenities that have been associated with a

up with the customer in mind. It features 15 service

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

bays for factory-trained technicians, an enhanced loaner fleet and an

Automotive. Many customers are checking out the new e-tron,

indoor service drive. Customers who wait while their car is serviced

which is Audi’s bold new entry into the electric car market. It features

can relax in the premium upgraded lounge, conduct business in a

all-wheel drive and fast-charging capabilities.

quiet workstation with a charging dock or enjoy the Quattro Café.

“Audi took a good look at how our competitors were approaching

Valet service is available for those who are not able to wait. “We

the electrified market, and they were delivering an unconvention-

drop off a loaner car to their home or office, service their vehicle and

al-looking result,” Coats says. “Audi took a very specific direction and

return their car without even taking time out of their day,” Coats says.

conducted focus groups. It determined that it was important that its

Audi Shawnee Mission attracts customers from across the met-

first electric vehicle look like an Audi and in fact is 100 percent an

ropolitan area and bistate region, and it also works with customers

Audi. The e-tron received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

nationwide through its partnership with the online service Holman

top safety rating—the first ever electric vehicle to receive this award.”

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

11

DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK

(CON TI N U ED)

Despite the new facility and the introduction of electric cars (Audi expects one-third of all new models to be electric by 2025), one thing remains constant. Coats and his team are committed to giving back to the community they serve.

Coats invites people to stop by and check out the new location, regardless if they have plans to purchase an Audi.

“We strive to create an environment where our team is passionate about their work and the product,” he says. “We continue to work

“This year, we were able to get involved with the Veterans Community

hard every day to find better ways to do things differently, such as

Project and had a great time doing it,” he says. “We ended up with

change the paradigm of the car-buying experience. By taking care of

approximately 40 Holman employees (combining efforts between Audi

our team members and customer base, we will keep Audi Shawnee

Shawnee Mission and The Auto Truck Group) helping to build tiny

Mission viable and vibrant for generations to come.”

homes for veterans. It was a great day, and we were able to build relationships with some incredible people involved with the project.”

12

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

For more information, please visit www.audi-shawneemission.com.

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13

HOT SPOT

14

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

ARTICLE NICCI LAVINE PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

R AND PORK SHOU I O N LDE OT R : PIN

FOOD AND WINE PAIRINGS WORTH A WEEKNIGHT OUT

FOR THOSE WHO ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH OVERLAND

seasonal dishes and cocktails, the restaurant resting on the

PARK’S LOUIE’S WINE DIVE, THEY MIGHT GET THE

corner of 119th street near Nall Ave., stands apart.

WRONG IDEA THANKS TO THE CONNOTATION OF A

“The (Overland Park) location is generally considered

“DIVE” BAR. While wine is synonymous with class, refine-

the flagship of the concepts for the Louie Wine Dive enter-

ment and the patient chemistry of fermentation, a dive

prise,” says Ryan Miller, the restaurant’s management

might call to mind dim lights, low ceilings and even lower

partner and beverage director. “We take great wine and

menu expectations. But one visit would correct any miscon-

food and make it approachable and non-pretentious.”

ception of this culinary experience.

Louie’s Wine Dive is where culinary culture meets Midwest relaxation. While each restaurant expresses individuality in its

Miller and his staff are unceasingly creating fresh cocktails to add to the bar’s blackboard and sniffing out new bottles of wine to add to their collection.

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

15

HOT SPOT

(CON TI N U ED)

“THERE IS A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY AND THAT AUDIENCE WILL ONLY BROADEN AS MILLER AND PELKEY CONTINUE TO COLLABORATE AND BRAINSTORM.”

16

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

“We use a little wine in all of our (cocktails),” Miller explains.

hanger steak and sea salt fries. There is a little something for

“We do that because we want to marry our wine drinkers with our

everyone to enjoy and that audience will only broaden as Miller

cocktail enthusiasts. It’s a way to slowly bring everyone into the

and Pelkey continue to collaborate and brainstorm.

wine-dive experience.”

Customer favorites include dishes such as the cheese and char-

What Ryan Miller is to the creation of wine and spirit cock-

cuterie board served with house-made bacon jam. The four-pork

tails, Executive Chef Thomas Pelkey is to the from-scratch menu.

gnocchi served in a wine-tomato sauce is aptly named, made with

Pelkey coordinates with local farmers and visits local Farmers’

bacon, Italian sausage, prosciutto and pork shoulder and slices of

Markets weekly to hunt down the fresh, seasonal ingredients

fresh baguette. Seafood enthusiasts would do well to try the small plate

needed for his menu. Pelkey began pursuing culinary artistry as

shrimp tacos marinated in chipotle sauce garnished with pickled red

a teenager and has always felt especially inspired by Mexican

onion, fresh avocado and crisp cilantro centered on delicate corn tortillas.

cuisine and cooking techniques.

“Everything is about balance,” Pelkey reveals. “Too much spice or too much acidity will throw off the wine. But then, some wines need acidity. Some need fat. It’s all about seasonality and balance.”

The expertly balanced meals are set off perfectly by intelligently paired wine choices. And for those who have a hard time choosing, there is always the ever-popular flight of wines.

Louie’s Wine Dive in Overland Park also hosts monthly wine

It’s only by accident that the enterprise’s lead beverage direc-

events to give customers an even more unique dining experience

tor and top executive chef share the same work space, but the

beyond the ever-evolving menu. The Restaurant is scheduled to

result feels nothing short of grand design. While Miller is pouring

host an “Evening in Gascony” in November. To find out more or

up an Old Fashioned mixed with brandy and champagne, Pelkey

to schedule your own small event, contact Louie’s Wine Dive at

is roasting poblano peppers with cinnamon to serve alongside

(913) 469-4177 or visit http://louieswinedive.com.

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

17

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GIVING BACK

Brews and Blooms 20

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

THE SIXTH ANNUAL BOTANICAL BREWFEST OFFERS CRAFT BEER AND FOOD WITH BEAUTIFUL GARDEN BACKDROP ARTICLE BETHANY DROBECK

GUESTS OF THE OVERLAND PARK

A s’mores bar will be available just for VIP

ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS

guests to enjoy. All ticket holders receive

HAVE ACCESS 365 DAYS A YEAR TO

admission to the gardens for the entire day of

13 BEAUTIFUL GARDENS COVERING

the event to enjoy trails and gardens as well

MORE THAN 300 ACRES. One night a year,

as a souvenir tasting glass to take home.

guests can take in the beauty of the gardens with a craft beer in hand.

First-time attendees should take note that the event is held rain or shine, and

The sixth annual Botanical Brewfest will

guests are welcome to leave their cars at

be held at the Overland Park Arboretum &

the garden overnight without fear of towing

Botanical Gardens on Saturday, October 12

if they prefer to use a taxi or lift service to

from 5-9 p.m. Brewfest features more than

get home afterwards.

100 craft beers from nearly 40 breweries, live

A unique aspect of the Botanical Brewfest

music and dancing, 15 restaurants, games

is the Arboretum’s commitment to ensuring

and activities all enjoyed with the beautiful

this is a green event.

garden in falls colors as a backdrop.

Corredor says, “At the Arboretum, we

Carlos Corredor, honorary chair for the

continue in our ongoing effort to reduce our

Botanical Brewfest and a Friends of the

carbon footprint wherever possible. Much of

Arboretum advisory board member, says the

our event waste from guests, restaurants and

event is a key fundraiser for the Arboretum.

beverage companies is either compostable

The funds from the event support efforts

or recyclable with less than 20 percent of our

throughout the garden as well as helping to

waste going to landfill. We also have a team of

provide engaging programming.

event volunteers who spend countless hours

The annual Botanical Brewfest is “one of

during and after the event ensuring that our

the area’s premier fall events,” according

waste materials are correctly separated to

to Corredor. He says, “The tiki torches that

maximize the environmental benefit.”

reflect on Margaret’s Pond and the seasonal

Businesses partner with the Arboretum

foliage make for a wonderful backdrop to a

to provide recycling services as well as

special and fun evening.”

biodegradable paper products at a dis-

Tickets can be purchased online at

counted rate. Corredor says that green

botanicalbrewfest.org, $60 for general

efforts have improved since the first

admission and $85 for VIP. Friends of the

Brewfest event, but the board recognizes

Arboretum receive a five-dollar discount on

the need to continually make progress.

ticket purchases. VIP ticket holders receive

The Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical

early admittance to the event at 4 p.m. New

Gardens is located at 8909 W. 179th Street,

this year, VIP ticket holders will also have

Overland Park, KS, 66085. For more infor-

access to a special area including an exclusive

mation about Botanical Brewfest, go to

restaurant and premium craft beer offerings.

botanicalbrewfest.org.

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

21

GIVING BACK

(CON TI N U ED)

“THE TIKI TORCHES THAT REFLECT ON MARGARET’S POND AND THE SEASONAL FOLIAGE MAKE FOR A WONDERFUL BACKDROP TO A SPECIAL AND FUN EVENING.”

22

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

e c i v r e Sis the heart of Sion NOTRE DAME DE SION STUDENTS FEEL EMPOWERED TO CREATE PERSONAL COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS

ARTICLE BETHANY DROBECK | PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

24

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

In today’ s

FAST-PACED AND OFTEN SELF-CENTERED CULTURE, HOW DO YOU PREPARE TEENAGE GIRLS TO BE PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING OTHERS? Teach them to listen.

According to Ellen Carmody, assistant principal for curriculum and instruction at Notre Dame de Sion High School, a college preparatory school in Kansas City, this commitment to listening is key.

Carmody says, “At Sion we really work hard for our girls to be good listeners. What is it that helps these young women find their passion and go out? They listen to problems that are out there. They’re solution-focused, not problem- focused.”

The freedom to pursue their passions has led many Sion students to create service projects.

Brooke McKee, senior, says she felt the support of the Sion community when she started a fashion club focusing on upcycling clothes and the downfalls of fast fashion.

Junior Tehya Frederick, who is passionate about serving the Native American community, says, “Sion and service are like peanut butter and jelly, they go hand and hand. Sion makes you want to help others by helping you recognize your passion and the change you want to see in the world.”

Each Sion student completes 100 hours of community service by graduation in addition to a senior capstone service-oriented project. Carmody says the coursework at Sion prepares students to take risks and pursue projects that are close to heart.

“Students find a project that they are passionate about, they design it, they plan it, they implement it, they reflect on it, and they share that back out. The underground current is that many other courses are helping to prepare them to take those jumps on their own. I think they’re good at taking risks,” Carmody says.

Feeling empowered by the Sion community, senior Colleen Byrne started a nonprofit called The Byrne Out Cancer Foundation, which provides fire stations with special washing machine extractors to remove carcinogens from firefighters’ gear. Her work was inspired after her dad passed away from occupational cancer.

Classmate Katherine Vankeirsbilck, sophomore, started Lemon Club, a club that supports Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a foundation that helps fund childhood cancer research.

Last year, in conjunction with the International Day of the Girl on Oct. 11, juniors Aly Heefner and Rajitha Velakaturi started Project Period. After learning about worldwide menstrual inequity in class and seeing for themselves the lack of feminine hygiene CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

25

SERVICE IS THE HEART OF SION

(CON TI N UED)

items for women in poverty through volunteering at Micah Ministry, they started researching, found a faculty member to advise them and then led Project Period at Sion. Through fundraising and collections involving the entire school, the girls were able to donate more than 5,000 feminine hygiene products to Micah Ministry last year for distribution to homeless women in the Kansas City area.

Heefner says, “That experience made me realize how fortunate I am to have the luxury of tampons, and I wanted to make sure that everyone can get that luxury too. Project Period is a foundation that is aimed at helping underprivileged women get the feminine products they need.”

Velakaturi credits the environment at Sion for fueling her passion for service. She says, “I have felt empowered because there are always teachers and mentors ready to jump in and help students with any problems. Sion also fosters an environment where serving a community is highly regarded. I have been encouraged to follow all my ideas and passions for service and through service.”

These students are working hard to embody the Sion mission: “Empower Minds. Transform Hearts. Impact Others.”

26

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

ARTICLE LISA MOYER

FOOD WHAT'S COOKING?

OCTOBER OFFICIALLY BEGINS COMFORT FOOD SEASON, SO WE ASKED AROUND

TOWN

WHAT

FOODS

BRING OUT THE APPETITE AND THE NOSTALGIA IN PEOPLE.

THE UPPER CRUST APPLE PIE CRUST + Basic Pie Dough for a 9" double-crust pie (we use an all-butter version) FILLING ++ 4 - 5 cups peeled, sliced apples (we like Fuji, Jonathan, or Jonagold)

Prepare filling. Lightly toss apples together with dry ingredients. Transfer apple mixture into unbaked pie shell, arranging and pressing down gently to remove extra space between slices. Sprinkle with lemon juice, add butter on top. Then cover with top crust. Trim, seal and crimp edges.

Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar. Vent top of pie.

++ 1 cup sugar

Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown and bubbly in cen-

++ 1/4 cup flour

ter, approximately 60 minutes. Enjoy.

++ 1/4 teaspoon salt ++ 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ++ 1 teaspoon lemon juice ++ 1 tablespoon butter, cubed ++ 1 beaten egg, to brush on top crust 28

DIRECTIONS

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

JAN KNOBEL, CO-OWNER, THE UPPER CRUST PIE BAKERY, OVERLAND PARK Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COMFORT FOOD? My top three are soups, stews and pasta. Any or all of them

A made-from-scratch pie conveys love, comfort and makes people happy!

coupled with warm, crusty bread and a glass of red wine is my idea of the ultimate comfort meal.

Q: YOU’VE HEARD PEOPLE DESCRIBE THEIR “SPIRIT ANIMAL.” SO WHAT’S YOUR SPIRIT FOOD?

Q: DO YOU PREFER SWEET, SAVORY OR SPICY?

It just so happens, during a recent visit to New York City,

While you might expect a pie baker to possess the world’s

I learned that my spirit animal is the elephant. My first reac-

biggest sweet tooth, I have a huge affection for savory items.

tion was…really? But given the description of “sensitive,

I’ve never been fond of overly rich or decadent desserts. A

most harmonizing and full of love,” I came to embrace it.

mild sweetness is my preference when it comes to desserts.

While it may sound cliché, I would have to relay that back to PIE as my spirit food.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN TOWN FOR A QUICK BITE? I love grabbing lunch at The Mixx! They have the best variety of

Q: WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO SHARE A RECIPE OR A FOOD MEMORY THAT IS MEANINGFUL OR

fresh salads. My husband and I also frequent Unforked for a quick

NOSTALGIC TO YOU? WHAT IS THE SPECIAL MEAN-

dinner. Their kale salad and grilled chicken taco is my go-to order.

ING OR ATTACHMENT FOR YOU? My grandmother, Lorene Jost, was an incredible

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT OR

baker. As a kid I visited my grandparents’ farm outside of

LOCALE FOR A SPLURGE?

Hillsboro, KS, where baked goods were always cooling

My sister Elaine VanBuskirk (aka business partner) and I

in her kitchen. My sister and I both received rolling pins

are always on the lookout for new locally owned restaurants to

from her for our high school graduations! So it would

experience and support. The Kansas City area has so many great

seem she “passed the baton” to us to continue the family

eateries to choose from. Currently, I am a big fan of Fox and Pearl,

baking tradition.

Voltaire and Westside Local. I’m a firm believer that the overall experience (food, service, vibe) is what keeps people coming back.

Our apple pie at The Upper Crust was adapted from her original recipe. It’s not complicated or fussy. She preferred using Jonathan apples and never liked cinna-

Q: WHAT RECIPES DO PEOPLE LOVE YOU TO BRING TO

mon in her apple pie. Consequently, we include a hint

A BUFFET OR POTLUCK?

of nutmeg in our apple pie. I still think of her whenever

No question—PIE makes the perfect addition to any gathering. Pie connects people and is meant to be shared.

I smell that wonderful aroma of apple pies coming out of the oven!

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

29

COMFORT FOOD

(CON TI N U ED)

CARL GERLACH, MAYOR OF OVERLAND PARK Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COMFORT FOOD? Chicken & Noodles Q: DO YOU PREFER SWEET, SAVORY OR SPICY? I love it all!

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN TOWN FOR A QUICK BITE? The Peanut Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT OR LOCALE FOR A SPLURGE? J. Alexanders, especially their carrot cake Q: WHAT RECIPES DO PEOPLE LOVE YOU TO BRING TO A BUFFET OR POTLUCK? Chocolate sheet cake with chocolate frosting Q: YOU’VE HEARD PEOPLE DESCRIBE THEIR “SPIRIT ANIMAL.” SO WHAT’S YOUR SPIRIT FOOD? Shrimp & Pasta (I’m a tall guy, so people laugh when I say my spirit food is shrimp.)

Q: DO YOU HAVE A FOOD MEMORY THAT IS MEANINGFUL OR NOSTALGIC TO YOU? I have very fond memories of my grandmother who first introduced me to red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting.

30

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

O F F I C E R J O H N P. L A C Y, P I O , O V E R L A N D P A R K P O L I C E D E P T. Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COMFORT FOOD? Chicken wings and pizza, but I’m supposed to be on a diet, shhhh.

Q: DO YOU PREFER SWEET, SAVORY OR SPICY? I love all flavors. Spicy foods are my favorite even though I sweat when I eat them.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT OR LOCALE FOR A SPLURGE? I’m all over Johnson County and the KC metro, but I don’t splurge much. I am sort of cheap.

Q: WHAT RECIPES DO PEOPLE LOVE YOU TO BRING TO A BUFFET OR POTLUCK? Meatballs and all kinds of dips…and I do not double dip!

Q: YOU’VE HEARD PEOPLE DESCRIBE THEIR “SPIRIT ANIMAL.” SO WHAT’S YOUR SPIRIT FOOD? Barbeque – any kind Q: WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO SHARE A RECIPE OR A FOOD MEMORY THAT IS MEANINGFUL OR NOSTALGIC TO YOU? I do make my own beef jerky; however, I can’t give out my recipe. It’s a family secret!

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

31

COMFORT FOOD

(CON TI N U ED)

MATT BESLER, DEFENDER AND CAPTAIN, SPORTING KANSAS CITY Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COMFORT FOOD? Steak, baked potato, grilled asparagus, cold glass of 2 percent milk.

Q: DO YOU PREFER SWEET, SAVORY OR SPICY? Savory Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN TOWN FOR A QUICK BITE? SPIN! Pizza Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT OR LOCALE FOR A SPLURGE? Novel. My wife and I usually order a bunch of small plates and share everything. We could eat their homemade pastas for every meal.

Q: WHAT RECIPES DO PEOPLE LOVE YOU TO BRING TO A BUFFET OR POTLUCK? Slow cooked baby back ribs.

Q: YOU’VE HEARD PEOPLE DESCRIBE THEIR “SPIRIT ANIMAL.” SO WHAT’S YOUR SPIRIT FOOD? People who know me best will say salmon because that’s what I eat and order most frequently. But I also have to get Ranch-flavored Corn Nuts when I stop at gas stations during road trips.

32

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

t h e

e v o l u t i o n

o f

BOULEVARD BOULEVARD BEGAN AS A “CRAZY” IDEA AND HAS BECOME A HOMETOWN HIT. ARTICLE RILEY COWING | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

36

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

THE

ORIGIN

STORY

BOULEVARD

OF

BREWING

CO. COMES DOWN TO ONE SEEMINGLY CRAZY IDEA. Jeff Krum, president of Boulevard Brewing and friend of founder John McDonald, describes his involvement with the company as a “happy accident.”

“My friend had a crazy idea back in the mid-1980s to start a

brewery,” Krum says. “It seems commonplace now, but at the time it really was sort of crazy. Most people he talked to told him as much, that there was only one other brewery in the state of Missouri at the time, and it happened to be the largest in the world.”

And they’re still the second largest brewery in the state. But unlike 30 years ago, there are now over 100 breweries in Missouri.

Krum says time was on their side.

“We were fortunate in the timing when we started, even if it didn’t seem so in the early years, because it was still a pretty radical notion,” he says. “We had the benefit of timing. We had pretty strong tailwinds behind us for most of our early life.”

Krum trusted his friend’s instincts, invested in the idea and Boulevard opened in 1989. A couple years in, it seemed McDonald’s idea had found traction—sales were strong, and their reputation was growing. Since Krum had business organization skills he says McDonald lacked, he offered to come in one day a week to help “bring some order to the chaos.” One day quickly became five plus days a week, and 25 years later

beginning, considering craft beer’s current popu-

Krum describes it as a “long, fun ride.”

larity, Krum acknowledges it’s difficult to imagine if

Today the company is a hometown hit, selling about one third

you didn’t live through it.

of their product within 50 miles of the brewery. Boulevard beer

“There was no such thing as craft beer in Midwest—

is also sold in 42 states as well as several foreign countries.

it just didn’t exist,” he says. “For a beverage that’s 6,000

When asked why the idea for the brewery seemed so crazy in the

years old, the beer business is remarkably volatile.”

With the ups and downs, closings and consolida-

tions that came pre- and post-Prohibition, Krum notes that by the 1970s almost every brewery in the U.S. was making basically the same beer—a light, pilsner style lager. “[Beer is] a big tree with lots of branches and basically all that was being produced in the U.S. was one singular style,” he says. “But nobody knew any different at the time. The notion of making a beer like Boulevard Pale Ale (which was our first beer) or Boulevard Unfiltered Wheat (which became our most popular beer) were radical notions at the time. People had not seen or tasted anything like it for a while, not for decades and decades. Which means that most people that were alive had never experienced it. It was truly a revolutionary idea at the time.”

Krum believes the company has a reputation for producing balanced beers.

“We don’t seek extremes,” he says. “We spend a lot of time, energy and money on ensuring that every beer that we make is as good as it can be. When we first started, we invested in a lab and laboratory equipment and personnel and still do. I think most people will tell you that they may not love each and every one of our beers, but I think we’re known for not making any bad beers.”

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

37

LOCAL’S CHOICE

(CON TI N U ED)

In addition to ensuring quality production

it was ending up in a landfill. There was

of their products, Boulevard makes an effort

no need for that, but it took somebody to

to remain environmentally conscious in their

step up and create a full-blown solution of

work. Krum says their sustainability efforts and

collection and processing. So we did that.

the idea of “waste not, want not” have been

It’s just sort of in our blood I guess.”

part of their ethos from the very beginning.

38

When asked why passion is an important

“I was not far removed from the farm, so

facet to Boulevard’s company culture, Krum

the idea of waste, of reusing what’s reusable

referred to a truism in business—a company

and using the minimum amount of resources

is only as good as its people.

to do what you need to do is just sort of natu-

“We learn that and live that everyday,” he

DID YOU KNOW?

ral to us,” he says. “It’s not a new idea for us.”

says. “We work really hard to attract not only

Their eco-friendly efforts include: a zero

the best and brightest but the people who

landfill initiative, utilizing solar energy and

really put their heart and soul into making

natural light when possible and starting

the best beer possible. We work really hard

Boulevard makes an

Ripple Glass, which provides a glass recycling

to maintain a relentlessly positive, upbeat

effort to remain envi-

solution for Kansas City and the Midwest.

and rewarding culture—open and trans-

ronmentally conscious

“Ripple Glass was simply out of an

parent and rewarding and fun. So we tend

in their work.

awareness that built up over time, that all

to work hard, but we play hard and (for the

of this glass we were using putting out

most part) really enjoy one another and

millions of bottles a year—virtually all of

enjoy the fruits of our labor.”

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

“WE WORK REALLY HARD TO ATTRACT NOT ONLY THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST BUT THE PEOPLE WHO REALLY PUT THEIR HEART AND SOUL INTO MAKING THE BEST BEER POSSIBLE.”

BOULEVARD TIMELINE from Boulevard’s website / Jeff Krum

1989

1990

2005

The first keg of

Boulevard installs

Boulevard breaks

Boulevard Pale Ale

a small, used

ground for a brew-

is sold to Ponak’s

bottling line.

house expansion.

2006

2013

2019

New brew-

Boulevard sells to

Boulevard launches

house opens

Duvel Moortgat,

Fling, their line of

a family-owned

canned cocktails.

Mexican Kitchen.

Belgian brewery.

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

39

Paid Advertisement

Start of school can lead to disputes

August is the start of the school year for most children. For many kids, where they are going to school is a forgone conclusion. It might be that they are simply returning to the school that they attended in the past.

However, for many other children, the school they are going to attend can be a source of disputes between family law litigants. When parties are divorcing, one spouse can live in one school district, while the other has moved to another.

In other cases, one parent might want the children to go to private school where the other parent desires a public school. In some situations, one parent may even want to home-school the children, while the other parent is against that idea.

Since schools typically start sometime in August, August can be a month where lots of family law litigation can

40

take place. They can take place in a divorce matter. Where the parents are not married, it can can culminate in paternity litigation. Where the parents are already divorced, motions to modify or motions for contempt can ensue.

Many litigants hope to get a resolution from the court before the start of school. In other circumstances, a party might even attempt to file a temporary restraining order to prevent the children from being enrolled in a new school.

In many of these cases, a guardian ad litem ends up being appointed. A guardian ad litem is an attorney for the children who typically provides recommendations to the court as to custody related issues, including what school the children will attend.

Family court judges are to look at the best interests of the children in resolving these disputes. Thus, family courts can look at variables like the rank-

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

ings and services that the schools offer.

If the kids have special needs, they often look at the ability of the school to meet these needs. If private school is being debated, the cost of who is going to pay for that can be a big issue.

Regardless, make no mistake that August is often a boom month for new family law litigation. The start of school can be the source of disputes between divorced or separated parents.

Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

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The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Kirk Stange is responsible for the content. Principal place of business 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Neither the Supreme Court of Missouri/Kansas nor The Missouri/Kansas Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist designations. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this advertisement are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

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FINANCIAL BUZZ

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Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

WARREN BUFFET SAID, “THE FIRST RULE OF INVESTING IS DON’T LOSE MONEY. The second rule of investing is don’t forget Rule No. 1.”

If you run a financial services firm that has nearly doubled in size every year for the past five years, you’re probably remembering Rule No. 1. At True Peace Financial Services in Overland Park, this full-service retirement planning firm is helping Kansas City residents create financial independence, and they’re telling their friends.

“I never get tired of happy tears,” says Leslie Davis, president and CEO. “Once a client realizes their hard-earned funds can truly last a lifetime, the rush of happiness and relief they show after years of worry is priceless.”

Davis says that as an independent fiduciary advisor, she and her support staff build all-inclusive retirement plans for clients through managed money, insurance solutions, Medicare, Social Security strategies, long-term care, life insurance and more.

“It’s a common misconception that a visit with a financial planner will cost an arm and a leg,” Davis says. “At True Peace, the planning itself comes at no cost or obligation until you decide to implement the plan. We provide a professional review of all pieces of your plan and make proper recommendations before you ever pay a dime. We address any problem areas and bring proper education to the forefront to avoid talking about financial options for hours without covering your actual needs. We strive to keep a family-centered organization that puts the client’s needs above all else.”

As a former senior financial consultant in Leawood, Davis served as an advisor to advisors— educating and building plans for more than 500 financial professionals nationwide. “This intense learning curve of planning and teaching difficult case design to other advisors helped hyper-expose me to the trials and pitfalls of planning for retirement,” she says.

In 2011, Davis started True Peace Financial Solutions, LLC to create an educational environment for clients to understand financial planning options in a comfortable atmosphere to build financial independence for “the retirement of their dreams.”

Davis can be heard on multiple local radio shows, including KMBZ. She also hosts financial presentations at local companies, including Black & Veatch, the City of Olathe, South Law, and others. She is a co-author of the upcoming book Mama’s Secret Recipe for Retirement with Jack Canfield, whom Davis met through mutual friends.

Davis adds that with the current volatile market, the goals of principal protection and growth are in high demand.

“New financial products are evolving that can protect the principal of your money while providing excellent growth potential,” Davis says. “No longer do you have to dance in traffic to make a buck! Nothing warms my heart like a call that a client has finally realized they can retire with confidence and is headed to our office to implement a plan we’ve worked very hard on. This is the truest sign of the trust our clients place in us.”

[Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Insurance and annuity guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing company. Insurance products and services are offered through individually licensed and appointed agents in various jurisdictions. Investment Advisory Services offered through AlphaStar Capital Management, LLC, a SEC Registered Investment Adviser.]

“NOTHING WARMS MY HEART LIKE A CALL THAT A CLIENT HAS FINALLY REALIZED THEY CAN RETIRE WITH CONFIDENCE AND IS HEADED TO OUR OFFICE TO IMPLEMENT A PLAN WE’VE WORKED VERY HARD ON.” October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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45

FOOD & WINE

ARTICLE ADRIANE TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

african dream cuisine

CHERISHED ASPIRATIONS

THERE IS A UNION OF AMBITIONS. It is a merger of ideals, traditions, and passions. It is a great love story that has only been enhanced by the captivation of a sensational meal. For high school sweethearts, Stella Musongong and Neba Ngwa, this transformation of the sentiment of African cuisine is a dream that they have been craving to share with the Kansas City area. It is now their reality.

Since meeting in Cameroon in 1996, Musongong and Ngwa have been best friends. They built their lives together through careers in nursing and sales.

Upon moving to the Midwest, their marriage was further strengthened by the birth of their son and the comfort that comes with a thoughtfully prepared meal that brings their close-knit family together.

Musongong’s enthusiasm for cooking and developing recipes she inherited from her mother and grandmother has always been at the center of their merriment.

Having friends and family gather around the dinner table with an assortment of delicious food often provided them with a stress-free repose. It is an experience they wanted to give to the world.

“This is how we decided to open our Dream Cuisine, which was only a dream until the management of the Lenexa Public Market gave us this golden opportunity to bring our concept to life,” explains Musongong. “Our concept is a simple and exciting one that creates a memorable experience to our customers, and our main goal is assuring their satisfaction and sharing happiness with them.”

The first African Dream Cuisine pop-up came to fruition in June 2019 on the second floor of the Lenexa Public Market.

It was met with an exceptional turnout.

CONTINUED >

46

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

“OUR CONCEPT IS A SIMPLE AND EXCITING ONE THAT CREATES A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE TO OUR CUSTOMERS, AND OUR MAIN GOAL IS ASSURING THEIR SATISFACTION AND SHARING HAPPINESS WITH THEM.”

CONTINUED >

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

47

FOOD & WINE

(CON TI N U ED)

In visiting African Dream Cuisine, patrons can expect a variety of foods displayed buffet style that allow customers to build their own plate at an affordable price. With a variation of eight to 10 items including: coconut-flavored rice, green rice, barbecue chicken, pork ribs, spinach, fried cabbage, fried sweet plantains, steam fried Irish potatoes, bacon/ham/fish rolls, dream sauce and their signature Puff Puff. They encourage guests to name their plates and post it on social media. Musongong and Ngwa consider themselves the craftsmen with the customers the architect of their plates. In preparing the food, dishes utilize touches of traditional African spices like fuloo (country onions) and jansang paired with ginger, garlic, and black and white pepper that give each dish a distinctively savory taste.

A trip to African Dream Cuisine is not complete without sampling the unique Puff Puff. Puff Puff is a dessert made of a mixture of flour, yeast, sugar and a pinch of salt that is deep fried in vegetable oil. The decadence of this treat is only matched by the touching story behind it.

“In Africa, where we come from, the frying and selling of Puff Puff is a business that empowered a lot of African women financially to be able to support their families. We have some engineers, doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers and more who could only make it this far today because their mothers had to fry and sell Puff Puff to pay for their tuition. This is our own humble way to honor those mothers and tell them, thank you,” says Musongong.

Musongong and Ngwa are excited about the future of African Dream Cuisine. They are currently offering catering for families as well as office events. In developing and growing their business they foresee great things and hope to expand in 2020 with hiring and training two new Dream master chefs. They are also working on building a delivery network for office launches and are also looking into developing multiple locations. But their focus continues to be their customers, and they even encourage them to write reviews so they can continue to provide stellar service. The Lenexa Public Market will always be their No. 1 location, and they are forever thankful to their Market Family and all the other vendors for their support and encouragement. By extending their joy of cooking Musongong and Ngwa are inviting everyone to partake in their delectable dreams.

To experience African Dream Cuisine, visit the Lenexa Public Market at 8750 Penrose Ln. Lenexa, KS 66219.

For information about their upcoming pop-ups, find them on Facebook @ African Connection, or (913) 9638737 for their catering line.

We thrive every day to provide a top-notch customer service to all those who come to eat or those just stopping by to find out about us.

48

Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

Cedar Lake Village

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Fall Open House Saturday, Oct. 12 • 9 – 11 a.m.

Join us for coffee and breakfast pastries.

Wednesday, Oct. 16 • 3 – 6 p.m.

Join us for light hors d’oeuvres.

Tuesday, Oct. 22 • 9 – 11 a.m.

Join us for coffee and breakfast pastries.

To RSVP for any of these events, or to set up a private tour, please call (913) 780-9916.

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49

OCTOBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1-13

12

24

THE FALL PARADE OF HOMES

BOTANICAL BREWFEST

ENCHANTED FOREST

nearly 300 homes by 97 home build-

Botanical Gardens

Parkway & Lackman Road, Lenexa

ers across the metropolitan area. The

Join us for the 6th annual Botanical

For one night only, Sar-Ko-Par

Parade features homes by some of

Brewfest. Beers from over 40 brew-

Trails Park is transformed into The

the area’s finest builders and includes

eries, presenting over 100 beers

Enchanted Forest, where there is

townhomes, villas and single-family

for tasting. Food, music, games,

something to delight even the small-

homes with a variety of floor plans

and fun. Featuring many local and

est of Halloween revelers. You can

featuring the latest design trends.

regional breweries, restaurants and

enjoy performances by puppets,

For more information, visit kchba.org

bands all in our beautiful garden

musicians and singers along the trail

setting. Don’t miss this premier

around Rose’s Pond and fun photos

5-6

metro-wide beer event that bene-

in the photo booth. Stroll the seasonal

fits the Friends of the Arboretum.

displays, visit friendly characters and

APPLEFEST 2019

18, 19, 25, 26

The Parade of Homes will feature

526 Main St, Weston, Missouri 64098

Enjoy art and craft booths, watch apple butter being made over an open fire and purchase a jar of

Overland Park Arboretum &

Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, 87th Street

enjoy performances at your leisure.

NIGHT OF THE LIVING FARM

13800 Switzer Rd, Overland Park,

26-27 BOO AT THE ZOO

apple butter to take home. Weston’s

Kansas 66221

famous apple dumplings, apple pies,

Night of the Living Farm takes

Children will trick-or-treat the Zoo

caramel apples, and cookies will be

place after dark and features scary

while enjoying Halloween themed

available and more. Children’s activ-

and non-scary activities for all.

activities and entertainment. Skip,

ities include Pony Rides in the park

Purchase tickets online now or at

hop, or crawl to trick or treat stations

and Face Painting on Main Street.

the Farmstead on the night you

with the zooiest treats in town. Put on

Adults: $1.00 Donation

attend. Tickets are $10. Your ticket

your favorite costume and join the Zoo

Kids under 15: free

purchase supports our nonprofit,

animals for a trumpeting great day of

Friends of the Farmstead, which

not so spooky activities.

helps the Farmstead grow.

Our animals will also be smash-

6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, Missouri 64132

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Johnson County Lifestyle | October 2019

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

JOHNSON COUNTY

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

Rockwood Falls Estates

$2,495,000

$2,372,500

95%

178

5

5.3

Maple Valley Farms

$1,849,000

$1,700,000

91%

141

7

6.3

The Woods Estates

$1,700,000

$1,652,500

97%

110

5

6.2

Sagamore Hills

$1,600,000

$1,550,000

96%

58

4

3.2

The Woods Estates

$1,850,000

$1,500,000

81%

22

6

6.3

Highlands Creek

$1,460,000

$1,395,000

95%

10

5

5.1

Hazelwood

$1,425,000

$1,375,000

96%

116

4

3.2

Hallbrook Village

$1,350,000

$1,360,000

100%

42

3

3.2

Hallbrook Farms

$1,389,000

$1,267,000

91%

134

5

5.2

Highlands Creek

$1,189,000

$1,055,000

88%

74

6

4.2

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers. 2019 STATISTICS from 8/1/2019 TO 8/31/2019. * DOM=Days on Market

October 2019 | Johnson County Lifestyle

51