Northland, MO November 2020

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Grateful Hearts: Happy Thanksgiving!

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Jeron Traphagan | jeron.traphagan@lifestylepubs.com Zach Traphagan | zach.traphagan@lifestylepubs.com

A Gratitude List

MANAGING EDITOR

Rachel Murphy | rmurphy@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams

DEAR READERS,

L AYO UT DESIGNER

It has been tough to feel grateful this year. Times are challenging, and to give a flip

Emily Lisenbee

‘time to be thankful’ letter seems hollow. But if 2020 has taught me anything (and it

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

has), it’s to count my blessings and acknowledge my privileges.

Ashley Elwell

So here’s my current gratitude list. Some things are unsurprising; some are things that I would only know of because of the year that we’ve had.

1. My family--I’ve been in the house with my two small children and my husband for far longer than COVID-19 has been around, but with limited safe options for escape, we’ve had extra togetherness. And you know what? I don’t mind. Are there moments that I could scream? Absolutely. There are also moments when I’m overwhelmed with the mirth that my daughters bring to life, or I’m blown away with the usefulness of projects my husband created.

2. Space--I learned this through my pandemic gardening attempts. When you plant things too close together, they don’t grow. They stay the same, small, yearning for sunshine and water and dirt. With space, they grow and flourish. Sometimes this

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

much space feels lonely, but I know that I’m learning more about myself each day.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

3. Books--reading, or escaping, is integral for my well-being right now. As elections

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

draw near, the ability to fall into a story that I’ve grabbed from Mid-Continent Public

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Library or the North Kansas City Library has been a lifeline.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

There’s much to be grateful for, and you, dear readers, are chief among them.

Be well this season!

Cheers, 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Rachel Murphy, Managing Editor

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

ON THE COVER For a bit of comfort, whip up these ginger molasses cookies

by Jessica Armstrong of Novel.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY ELWELL. 8

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

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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 area’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.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Extra Thanks EVEN IN THE MIDST OF 2020, THERE'S MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR. Dear friends and readers, It’s my favorite time of year, the holiday season! No matter what’s going on in the world, we all come together with those we love and celebrate.

I am extra thankful this year for many reasons--our health (which is more important than ever), the extra time with family we’ve had, and we are expecting our third baby boy! I couldn’t be more thrilled to expand the rowdiness in our household!

It's rewarding to show my boys what it means to support your community and local businesses. I’m thankful that Northland Lifestyle is a pedestal to do that.

I am thankful for our partners and how they continue to serve the Northland community. We have had several new businesses join the Northland Lifestyle family the last few months. It’s a great joy to be able to showcase how they are thriving and what makes them special.

Lastly, I’m thankful to be raising my family in the Northland. I’m proud when others ask where we are from and I can say “north of the river.” The holidays may be different this year but the spirit of our celebrations will be the same. Happy holidays, friends!

Warmly,

Jeron Traphagan, Publisher

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2020

FEATURES 24 Online but Not Forgotten Local Non-Profits Pivot to Digital Fundraising

28 Recipes from the Heart Local Chefs share their favorite dishes

28

42 A Plan to Succeed Prepare for the end of the financial year

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42 24

DEPARTMENTS 8

Lifestyle Letter

9

Publisher’s Letter

12

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Giving Back

24 Inspired By 28 Culinary Creations 35 Faith Reflections 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Financial Buzz

GOOD TIMES

Norterre Welcomes KC Wolf KC Wolf paid a visit to Norterre residents and staff on Red Friday, September 25th. Norterre families were also invited to participate in a car parade. Northland Community Partners generously sponsored KC Wolf to Norterre as well as other Northland Senior Living Communities.

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

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AROUND TOWN

NORTH KANSAS CITY HOSPITAL RAISES NEARLY $126,000 FOR LOCAL CHARITIES North Kansas City Hospital’s fundraiser, Chip In For Charity, supported Northland charities for the 28th consecutive year. Despite the cancelation of the annual golf tournament due to COVID-19, 17 sponsors’ generosity enabled NKCH to raise $125,646 for three local charities in Clay and Platte counties.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to support these Northland charities in a time when our community needs their programs most,” said Stephen Reintjes Sr., MD, president, and CEO of NKCH and Meritas Health. Out of an abundance of caution, this year’s Chip In For Charity check presentation was a closed ceremony. Organizations supported include the Assistance League of Kansas City, LevelUp Kids, and Northland Assistance Center.

OAK PARK HIGH SCHOOL BREAKS GROUND ON NEW STADIUM A new stadium will allow Oak Park High School to host home sporting events after being built 55 years ago. A groundbreaking for the facility took place on October 9 at the school. The new facility includes permanent bleachers, restrooms, concession stand, locker rooms and new press box.

A partnership with the city of Gladstone will allow the visitors’ restrooms and concession stand to be used during events at the adjacent Oak Grove Park. Lights around the football field and track were installed three years ago, paving the way for this massive renovation.

Another major construction project at the school is a second entrance on the south side. The twostory addition will house the new command center ensuring a safe and secure learning environment.

The $12 million project is funded as part of the $155 million-dollar bond voters overwhelming passed in June. Along with Oak Park’s construction projects, the bond will be used to fund a new stadium at Winnetonka, two new elementary schools and various renovations throughout the district.

LIBERTY DOGGIE DAY CARE DONATES TO WORTHY CAUSE Local shelter animals are getting the comfort they deserve this season thanks to four Camp Bow Wow locations, and their generous donation.

Camp Bow Wow – the local doggy daycare franchise and boarding facility that provides premier CONTINUED >

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

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AROUND TOWN pet care in your area, has made a substantial donation of $5,000 to Mission Driven’s “Shelter Bed Campaign.” The four Camp Bow Wow locations (Kansas City Westport, Olathe, Lee’s Summit and Liberty), whose everyday mission is to provide the highest levels of fun, safety and service to its Campers, wanted to do something extra special to help animals across Kansas and Missouri.

Started by Mission Driven, a company that creates and promotes fundraisers to help shelters meet their needs and pets find their forever homes, the “Shelter Bed Campaign,” is a way for companies like Camp Bow Wow to give back to their community. Together, the four Camp Bow Wow locations teamed up to donate $5,000, which supplies around 800 beds to shelter animals in need.

MID-CONTINENT PUBLIC LIBRARY OPENS NEW LIBERTY BRANCH On September 23, Mid-Continent Public Library opened the doors to a brand-new building off Withers Road in Liberty, Mo. The 18,500-square-foot Withers Branch (1665 S. Withers Road) serves as a replacement for the former Liberty Branch (1000 Kent Street), which

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

closed in August. The new building is more than 1,000 square feet larger than the old Liberty Branch and offers a variety of upgraded amenities, including: + Dedicated areas for children and teens + A drive-up window + Enclosed community room for public programs + Smaller collaboration and study rooms + Outdoor reading and seating area + Native landscaping The construction of the Withers Branch and replacement of the Liberty Branch, is part of MCPL’s ongoing Capital Improvement Plan, which it launched following the passage of Proposition L in 2016. The Library is working with Sapp Design Architects, Helix Architecture + Design, and JE Dunn to upgrade all of its existing branches and add two new units of service by the end of 2022.

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GIVING BACK

ARTICLE RACHEL C. MURPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Home for the Holidays

KC PETS ARE LOOKING FOR FUREVER HOMES

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

WITH CHRISTMAS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, PUPPIES AND KITTENS WILL BE SOUGHT OUT AND GIFTED UNDER THE TREE. There’s nothing like the childlike joy that comes with a new pet but there is a lot of benefit to adopting (not shopping for) an older animal too.

The KC Pet Project knows this first hand. In 2019, they helped 7,619 pets find their furever homes. That’s only part of what they do--they also cared for 11,109 animals, including doing emergency surgeries, treating for parvo or pankeukopenia, and spaying and neutering.

Sometimes an animal has special challenges, but that doesn’t mean they are unadoptable. It just means they need someone as special as they are. Here are two such animals that are just yearning to find their perfect people.

PONCE AKITA If your house is feeling a little lonely, this five year old Akita may be your perfect match.

Ponce is naturally curious and has the best head tilts. He loves baths and being brushed and a squeaky toy is the way to his heart. When out on a walk, Ponce does well on a leash, without pulling or tugging. He even loves rides in the car! Ponce is a sweetheart and would be perfect as the only dog in your home. He has all the love that you’ll need.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

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GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

Survivor

Domestic shorthair/mix

You really can’t keep a good cat down.

Survivor came to the shelter as a larger litter of kittens that all had a terrible disease. He is one of the only ones who made it through sheer force of will! Survivor thought he had found his furever home but came back to us this September and now wants to find his people. He’s a lover and very affectionate. He’s so affectionate that he won’t want to share his time with another animal, so he’s looking for somwhere that he can rule the roost. If you want a lover and a fighter, then Survivor is definitely the kitty for you.

To see more animals that need homes, visit KCPetProject.org.

In 2019, KC Pet Project took in 149% more cats and 34% more dogs than they did in 2018. They also adopted out 3784 cats in 2019, a new record for cat adoptions. As more animals come through their doors, KC Pet Project always needs volunteers, fosters, and donations to ensure their commitment to saving as many animals as they can.

Do you have a spare Saturday? Sign up to volunteer and help make an animal's day a little brighter.

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

INSPIRED BY

ONLINE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN LOCAL NON-PROFITS PIVOT TO DIGITAL FUNDRAISING

ARTICLE RACHEL MURPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ARE YOUR BALLGOWNS GETTING DUSTY? The tuxedo

Instead of canceling the event, co-chair Addie Layne

probably hasn’t made it out of the closet in a few months,

says that their staff of 50 female volunteers reimagined it.

either. Our city is full of generosity, and with it, many fund-

Instead of strolling the aisles, shoppers can open a special

raisers that draw together people to celebrate their causes

box curated with items from favorite retailers. Not a box fan?

have been challenging this year. As we all try to stay safe and

Visit participating retailers online at the virtual market or

keep our communities healthy, the galas and events we love

buy a shopper rewards card to get great deals. They’re even

are shuttered. Or are they?

hosting two favorite events, Ladies Night In (virtually) and

While the fundraisers aren’t inhabiting the grand halls

Pics with St. Nick (socially distanced).

and ballrooms, nonprofits and their missions are more

While their creativity saves the spirit of the event, the

important than ever. They have to be more creative to find

hard facts are that a good portion of their fundraising comes

ways to get their mission out there and raise desperately

from ticket sales. If past participants want to continue help-

needed funds without in-person contact. And in many

ing the Junior League’s mission, a one-time donation of $10,

ways, they are succeeding.

which would be the regular cost of a ticket to Holiday Mart,

One of the holiday season’s most anticipated events has always been Holiday Mart, produced by the Junior League

will make a huge difference. Find out more ways to help at JLKC.org.

of Kansas City. Holiday Mart, a staple in Kansas City for 33

It’s not just balls that have been canceled, though. Many

years, grew to attract nearly 20,000 people to shop during

organizations depend on road races for a substantial portion

the four-day event. Holiday Mart has an excellent two-fold

of their funding. The Liberty Hospital Foundation sponsors

benefit--supporting local retailers and donating to the

the annual Kyleigh’s Gift Run and Candlelight Run/Walk

many great programs sponsored by the Junior League of

to benefit the Kyleigh’s Gift Fund with the Liberty Hospital

Greater Kansas City.

Foundation. Kyleigh’s Gift provides infant wellness education CONTINUED >

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

Past Holiday Marts have drawn up to 20,000 shoppers.

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

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INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Participants in the Kyleigh's Gift race all ran on their own for the same great cause.

and resources and parental support for pregnancy and infant loss at Liberty Hospital. COVID-19 may prevent participants from physically running together, but they are still crossing the finish line for this important cause.

Instead of canceling, the event committee went to work on making this virtual event as much fun and as meaningful as possible. Race organizers provided each participant a ‘DIY Event Kit’ complete with sidewalk chalk, finish line tape, and noise-makers. Kid participants were given bubbles, temporary tattoos, and bouncy balls. Most importantly, the ‘Wave of Light’ candlelight resource, including candles and luminaries, was available to families who planned to hold a private candlelight ceremony.

Participants (some from as far away as Florida and New Orleans!) hit the streets on their own on October 10th to walk/run to support Kyleigh’s Gift. If you’d like to learn more, please visit LibertyHospitalFoundation.org.

As we enter the giving season, it’s more important than ever to support the nonprofits that help our friends and neighbors. Please search for your favorite causes and see what they virtually have in store for you!

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

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CULINARY CREATIONS

Recipes from t he Hea r t LOCAL CHEFS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE DISHES

PHOTOGRAPHY ASHLEY ELWELL, PAUL VERSLUIS

Photo by Ashley Elwell 28

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

Gi n ger Mol a s ses Cook ies THANKSGIVING: IT’S A TIME OF FOOD AND FELLOWSHIP, EVEN WHEN FOOD IS YOUR LIFE. We wanted to see what the chefs eat when they aren’t feeding us. Theses recipes find their way onto celebrated chefs’ tables, if not their menus and speak to traditions that feed the soul. Enjoy these family recipes from some of the city’s best culinary minds!

“We love cooking as a family. I made these cookies growing up with my Norwegian grandmother. My fondest holiday memories were made in her kitchen and on her farm.” Chefs Jessica Armstrong and partner Ryan Brazeal of Novel Makes 24 cookies

i n g re d ient s + 3/4 c butter, at room temperature + 1 c brown sugar + 1 egg, at room temperature + 1/4 c molasses + 1 tsp vanilla extract + 2 1/4 c all purpose flour + 2 tsp baking soda + 1/4 tsp salt + 1 tsp ground cinnamon + 2 tsp ground ginger + 1/4 tsp ground cloves + Granulated or coarse sugar

d i rec t ion s Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Cream the butter and sugar for 4 minutes or until fluffy. Add the molasses, cream for 2 more minutes, and scrape down the sides.

Add the egg, mix well.

Sift the dry ingredients together in a bowl.

Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, slowly mix until incorporated.

Refrigerate the batter for 30 minutes.

Scoop out 2 tablespoons of batter and form into balls. Coat the balls with sugar.

Place the balls 2 inches apart on a lined cookie sheet. Flatten with your hand or the bottom of a drinking glass.

Bake for 12-14 minutes.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

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CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

Photo by Paul Versluis

Stir-Fried Garlic Green Beans & Shiitake Mushrooms with Chef Pam Liberda of Waldo Thai Makes 4 servings

d i rec t ion s Bring a pot of water to a boil, season with salt and add

"Green bean casserole is my favorite side dish, and this

the green beans. Boil 1 minute, drain and rinse with cold

is my take on it—a light and delicious stir-fry that pairs

water, then place on a kitchen towel to dry thoroughly. (If

well with turkey and other side dishes. Shiitake mushroom

vegetables aren’t dry when you add them to the hot wok or

adds another layer of texture and aroma to the dish, mak-

pan, they will splutter and braise instead of stir frying.) Place

ing it the perfect savory accompaniment to Thanksgiving

within reach of your wok or pan.

dinner." —Chef Pam Liberda, Waldo Thai

i n g re d ient s

Heat a 14-inch flat-bottomed wok or a 12-inch skillet over high heat until a drop of water evaporates within a second

+ 1 pound green beans, trimmed

or two when added to the pan. Swirl in the oil by adding it to

+ ½ pound fresh shiitake mushrooms

the sides of the pan and swirling the pan.

+ 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

30

Place the shiitake mushrooms, garlic, oyster sauce and white pepper near the burner.

Add the garlic, stir-frying for no more than 10 seconds, then

+ 1 tablespoon minced garlic

add the green beans and shiitake mushrooms. Toss together,

+ ¼ teaspoon white pepper

then add the oyster sauce and white pepper. Stir-fry for 1-2

+ 1 tablespoon canola oil

minutes, until the beans are crisp-tender. Remove from heat

+ 2 tablespoons fried shallots for garnish

and place on serving plate. Garnish with fried shallots on top.

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

Affäre Squash Bread Dumplings with Chef Martin Heuser “This dish is a delicious way to use squash in the fall, and it is such a comforting, yet different addition to any dinner. It's also great because it's easy to make, can be made ahead of time, and you can use up dry bread. Dumplings are a popular addition to many meals in Germany. This recipe allows for a lot of variation and creativity.

Using squash makes this a delicious fall treat.” —Chef Martin Heuser Makes 32 servings

i n g re d ient s + 5 ½ cups warm milk + 5 ½ pounds day-old bread, cubed + 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) butter + 5 medium onions, diced + 3 bunches parsley, chopped + 20 large eggs + 5 ½ pounds acorn or butternut squash, peeled, seeded and shredded + Salt and pepper, to taste + Nutmeg, to taste

d i rec t ion s Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 12 x 20 x 2 casserole pan.

In a mixing bowl, pour milk over bread. Set aside bowl and allow bread to absorb most of the milk.

In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onion until translucent, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir parsley into onion. Remove pan from heat and allow to cool.

Stir into skillet the bread mixture, squash and eggs. Stir lightly until mixture is combined. Season dumpling mixture with nutmeg, salt and pepper.

Pour bread-squash mixture into prepared casserole pan. Place pan inside a roasting pan and pour boiling water inside roasting pan until it comes halfway up sides of casserole pan. Bake 1 1/2 hours, or until dumplings register an internal temperature of 180 degrees on a food thermometer.

To freeze: Allow dumplings to cool completely and slice into portions. Freeze four portions to a package; freezing together will make the dumplings stick.

To reheat: Thaw dumplings in the refrigerator. Reheat in a covered skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or place dumplings in a casserole dish with a lid at 350 degrees. Whichever method you choose, add

Photo by Paul Versluis

CONTINUED >

a small amount of broth to the skillet or casserole to keep from sticking.

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

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CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

C hef M ich ael Sm it h 's Gnoc ch i Wit h Tu rkey Meat ba l l s , S q u a sh a nd C h a nt erel le s Makes 8 servings

“I have an aversion to traditional Thanksgiving foods. For starters, I don’t like squash, but most people love it. People never get tired of gnocchi and turkey meatballs are a healthy alternative to red meat. The dish is loosely based on my

Pot at o Gnoc ch i i n g re d ient s

popular rabbit gnocchi dish that’s been on the menu since I

+ 2 pounds Idaho potatoes, unpeeled

opened Michael Smith Restaurant and now Farina. The last

+ 2 cups 00 flour

eight years or so, I’ve been preparing an Italian-influenced

+ 1 egg yolk

Thanksgiving dinner at home and while this dish takes some

+ 1 tablespoon kosher salt

time, my family wouldn’t be happy if it wasn’t on the menu.”

—James Beard Award-Winning Chef Michael Smith, Farina/Extra Virgin

i n g re d ient s

d i rec t ion s Bake potatoes in a 400-degree oven until soft.

Remove and let cool for 5 minutes or until cool enough to handle. Peel potatoes, discarding skins. Put potato

+ Gnocchi – 45-50 pieces fresh potato gnocchi

flesh through a fine food mill or potato press. Potatoes

+ 1 pound fresh chanterelle mushrooms, soaked and cleaned

should be very warm. Spread them evenly on a lightly

+ 2 pounds turkey meatballs – 35-40 mini size meatballs

floured surface.

+ 2 cups diced hard squash (Hubbard, kuri, butternut) + 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano leaves + ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

Sift the 00 flour over the top of the riced potatoes. Stir egg yolk with a fork and pour over potatoes.

Knead potatoes and flour into a soft dough. Don’t over-

+ 1 clove garlic, minced

work the dough…it should come together in about 4-5

+ 1 cup turkey broth

minutes. (Dough should not stick to your hands.) Flatten

+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

dough quite a bit, keeping it lightly floured. Cover dough

+ 2 teaspoons kosher salt

and let rest for 15 minutes. Heat a large pot of salted

+ 1 teaspoon fennel pollen

water to a boil. Reduce heat while cutting gnocchi.

+ 1/4 cup olive oil

d i rec t ion s

The technique to cutting the gnocchi all the same size is rolling the dough into thick ropes no thinner than the diameter of a nickel. Cut the flattened dough into 1-inch thick slices. Then separate each slice and

Poach the diced hard squash in salted water until just

roll into a long rope using the palms of both hands.

soft to the point of a knife. Drain and set aside. Place a large

Once the ropes are rolled out, cut the individual gnoc-

heavy-bottomed pan over high heat and add half the olive

chi, approximately 1 inch for standard size. Leave as

oil. When oil begins to smoke, add the mini meatballs, and

is (shaped like a pillow) or press-roll on the back of a

cook until golden brown, then finish in the oven. Set aside.

fork’s tines for a more traditional look.

In a large heavy-bottomed skillet add the remaining half

Reheat salted water to a boil. Poach gnocchi (about

of olive oil and heat until just smoking. Add gnocchi to the

20 at a time) in the boiling water. (The water does not

pan and don’t move it or shake it for 30-40 seconds. Let

need to be vigorously boiling.) Let gnocchi cook until

the gnocchi get a light caramelization then shake the pan

they float to the top. Continue cooking for a full minute

to roll the gnocchi around for another minute or two. They

after rising to the top to completely cook through thickest

will brown naturally on the other sides. Add chanterelles,

parts of dough. Use a long-handled strainer to scoop out

oregano, parsley, fennel pollen and garlic.

the cooked gnocchi. Toss onto an olive oil lined baking

Sauté for a few minutes, then add turkey stock, squash

sheet. Repeat with remaining gnocchi. Let cool naturally.

and meatballs. Bring the pan to a boil and add butter. Stir

When all gnocchi are poached and cooled, coat well in

vigorously with a spoon to emulsify the brothy dish. Add

olive oil and store in a covered container in the refrigerator.

kosher salt and taste to adjust seasoning. Serve immediately.

They will keep well for 4-5 days.

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

Tu rkey Me at ba l l s

i n g re d ient s + 2 pounds ground turkey + 6 large leaves fresh basil, chopped + 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves + 2 teaspoons fresh oregano leaves + 2 cloves garlic, minced

d i rec t ion s Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Test for seasoning. Roll into meatballs about the size of a quarter.

Poach meatballs in a favorite sauce or sauté them in a skillet until golden then bake them until cooked through.

The meatballs can be frozen after cooking or before cooking.

+ 1 pinch chili pepper flakes + 2 whole eggs + 2 cups fine breadcrumbs + 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon kosher salt

Photo by Paul Versluis

+ 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper + 1 pinch ground allspice

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Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

CLASSES

www.OrangeEaselArt.com

FAITH REFLECTIONS

WALKING THE WALK

A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN

FROM THE PULPIT OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH OF MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING, TO A HOME IN THE POOREST REGION OF HONG KONG. From authoring a New York Times bestseller, to being surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day.

For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, it’s exactly what his soul needed—an opportunity to fulfill his God-given purpose of becoming a man who can truly say he practices what he preaches. And it was all by his own choice (with maybe a little guidance from above).

Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died during childbirth. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer. Francis was around 14 when he was introduced to a youth group by a friend.

“I fell in love with Jesus,” he says, explaining that it was

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

then he decided if there really was a Heaven and Hell, it didn’t make sense to spend his life doing anything other than telling people about Him. Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. In 2000, the church grew even more, to 1,600.

By 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

35

FAITH REFLECTIONS (CONTINUED)

Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com!

Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it all.

But, he wasn’t leaving God. He was separating himself from the megachurch that had started in his living room as he and other elders began to question its direction.

“Was this really what the Church is meant to be? Is this all God had in mind when he created His Church in the first place?” Francis questions in his second book Letters to the Church. “We began to wonder if our definition of a church actually fit God’s definition.”

“Everything had grown to be very dependent upon one person,” he continues. “The Bible tells us that every member of the body has a gift that is necessary to the functioning of the church. When I looked at what went on in Cornerstone, I saw me and a few other people using our gifts, while thousands just came and sat in the sanctuary for an hour and a half and then went home.”

After leaving Cornerstone, Francis wrestled with what the next step was. He and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China.

And the $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking.

“We witnessed the simplicity of the lifestyles in rural Thailand, and the joy of the men and women who served widows and orphans day in and day out” “You meet these believers that just blow your mind. It’s everything the Bible talks about,” Francis says, inspired by those he’s met throughout his travels. “Some of the

It was after that Francis believes he was called back to the

godliest people, the most committed...people that I

States, and the Chan family ended up back in San Francisco.

admire and aspire to become like. If I can get past my

This time, much like the beginning of Cornerstone, Francis

own hunger for comfort and enjoyment and really sac-

and Lisa once again felt a calling to plant a church.

rifice like I’ve seen some of these people do, I know I’ll have even more fulfillment in life.”

What started this time was We Are Church—an organization passionately pursuing what God wants in a church, done through

“People tha t I ’ve f ou nd that have spent t h ei r l i ves tr uly loving o t h er s a r e t h e jo yf u l peopl e.”

36

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

values and practices like devotion to scripture,

committing

to

churches of 10-20 people meeting in a home, and calling everyone to share the gospel and make disciples.

“Som et im e s you sh ed som e t h i ngs an d you re alize i t ’s a c t u a l l y bet t er ; s om e o f t he th i ng s w e t h ou gh t w ou ld brin g us in t o t h e p r esenc e of G od actually now di st r a c t u s.”

Francis’ extensive time overseas has shown him a contrast

In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a

between the American church and the spirituality and Godly

growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of

lives of others across the world, and now struggles with see-

life, Francis’ vision of where the concept of church is heading—a

ing the division in the church, due in large part to growing

non-prophetic guess, he clarifies, laughing—can be summed up

issues of individualism and pride.

through a story of his daughter Rachel, when she was 5 years old.

“Try to look at the church in America from an outsider’s

“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city called

perspective, Francis challenges. “Is that really where you

Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was this old maze

would look for answers— knowing the divisiveness; know-

you walked through with only a few walls, some little ceramic

ing all the scandals; knowing everything you know about it?

things you could paint and this big bubble machine that was

The church is in a really poor state and it in some ways feels

just a hula hoop dipped in bubble solution.”

like it’s getting worse.”

“I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he continues. “Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other.”

Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing himself, goes on to describe how he sees this generation as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls and you’re always in the picture—always the center of everything.

“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’” he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’”

Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals.

“She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like, you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”

“All we really need to do is hit that little button that switches

“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says,

it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t even see myself. All

fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to

I see is God and those around me. People that I’ve found that

certain things and God has something so much better for us. I

have spent their lives truly loving others are the joyful people.”

believe he’s leading us all into a deeper intimacy with Him that

Much like separation from his megachurch setting,

is just off the charts. Sometimes you shed some things and you

preaching in front of thousands, and the continued growth

realize it’s actually better; some of the things we thought would

of We Are Church exudes, Francis continues to spread the

bring us into the presence of God actually now distract us.”

belief that people are the church.

Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the Sham

“It’s not about going to a place and needing a critical mass

Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong with most

of 8 people or 1,000 people or this or that; it’s the person of

of his family, including his wife, all but one of his daughters,

Christ and enjoying that,” he says. “I really believe the Lord

two sons-in-law and two grandchildren. It’s a place where he

wants us during this time to go back to the scriptures, rethink

later found is where his mother also did ministries in the 1950s,

‘What did he really want the church to be?’ Believers have

and allows him the continued humbling opportunity to live out

been scattered since the beginning of the church. People

his journey through the Gospel, working with the ultra poor

were alone, people were in little groups and found each other

to bring relief, sharing the word of God and, you guessed it,

and enjoyed Christ together.”

planting churches.

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

37

38

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

Chloe

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816.599.7407 8357 N. Congress Avenue | KC MO 64152 facebook.com/salonatmospherestyle

CityLifestyle.com/Northland

39

NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

5

18

by Eric Vallier has the mission of

PIE AND PAINT

TEE OFF FORE TRI-COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH

limit. 18+

Gladstone Community Center

This event is open to all ages and can

T-Shotz

be fun for the whole family! Leave this

Sign up to swing for Tri-County

event with a beautiful fall-inspired

Mental Health. Each ticket will sup-

painting and a satisfied sweet tooth

port emergency utility assistance,

after a 1.5 hour class instructed by

holiday gifts for needy families, and

Carly Spencer Studios, a glass of

clothing assistance for job searchers.

7

COALESCE: THE ART OF COUTURE

material with no visible upward

28 SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Downtown Parkville

Main Street Parkville will be hosting a Shop Small Passport event. Pick

cider and your own personal pie from The Laughing Place Bakery. $45.

seeking laughs from new source

20

up your passport that day and fill

SUPER SMASH BROS TOURNAMENT

nesses in downtown Parkville. Earn

Gladstone Community Center

it with stamps when you make a purchase at your favorite local busigift cards to the places you love to shop and dine!

Virtual

On Novemer 20th at 6 p.m., we will

Styled by WIaa Style, Coalesce is

host a one day Super Smash Bros

an immersive art experience where

Tournament on the Nintendo Switch.

fashion and fine art come together

Anyone 10 years and up is invited to

in a breathtaking collaboration cele-

join this 1v1 tournament with hopes of

brating fine art on the runway. Guests

being in the top 3 to advance to the

will safely experience how eight local

KC M.E.S.A finals virtually on Friday

Kansas City artists transform gowns

December 4th.

All budding, new or experienced

into walking canvasses of fine art

Kids AND Adults are encouraged

poets, singer-songwriters, storytell-

with a virtual experience unlike any

to join!

ers, spoken word artists and those

14 A THANKFUL TEA Anna Marie's Teas

friends

tea

Corbin Theatre

24

to read and perform in this safe, sup-

MAYOR'S CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Arts

Linden Square

to

POETRY AND MORE ON THE SQUARE

who would just like to listen are invited

other. Register at Eventbrite.com.

Welcoming

DEC 1

at

Funds from the Mayor's Christmas Tree

Thanksgiving is an expression of

Fund will benefit Feed Northland Kids,

gratitude for their friendship and all

Northland Shepherd's Center and The

the blessings they have have brought

Northland Christmas Store. For more

to your life. Fall is the most beauti-

info, visit LindenSquare.info.

portive and enthusiastic environment.

This is a joint program of the Liberty Commission

Theatre

Company,

and with

Corbin support

from VisitLibertyMo.com

ful time of the year in Brenda's 1913 home. Our Thanksgiving Tea Table is a wonderful time to gather with friends and express thank yous, celebrations, and share.

40

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020

27 OPERATION SKYLIGHT: A COMEDY SHOWCASE HOSTED BY ERIC VALLIER

Would you like to get in touch with

Groundhog Day Theater

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

Missions have code names, and this

Northland using the Get In Touch link

standup comedy showcase hosted

and let us know what you think.

us? We would love to hear from you!

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CityLifestyle.com/Northland

41

FINANCIAL BUZZ

IT IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT TO SAY THERE HAS BEEN A LOT GOING ON THIS YEAR! Because of the unprecedented uncertainty we’ve all experienced, it is an excellent time to tend to things in your financial life. The six items below are a good starting place.

1. The CARES act passed earlier this year provided financial relief for many. If you or your employees received unemployment compensation, check with your tax advisor to be sure you are not in for a tax-surprise by not having had enough withheld or set aside.

2. Stock markets had an unprecedented year of ups, downs, and

A Plan to Succeed: PREPARE FOR THE END OF THE FINANCIAL YEAR

up and now down again! This volatility may have caused some of your investments to have unusual taxable capital gains. Check with your broker or financial advisor to see if your investments are affected.

3. If you make charitable gifts start to plan now to avoid the last-minute rush. If you have appreciated stock, you may want to donate that stock. A direct gift from your IRA to a charity can also be a good idea if you qualify. Check with your tax professional and financial advisor to see if you would benefit from either of these strategies.

4. Review any debt you have and consider a plan to pay that off sooner rather than later.

5. Begin identifying 2021 financial goals, i.e., updating wills/ trusts, insurance reviews, college savings, and retirement accumulation planning.

6. Meet with your financial advisor to discuss how to take action.

They can help develop a financial roadmap and identify other team members that you may need for tax advice, legal guidance or insur-

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ance review. Don’t miss out on potential benefits by going it alone.

Do you have more questions? We’re happy to help. Find out more at FinanciaLifeOutfitters.com

42

Northland Lifestyle | November 2020