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She’s Leaving Brookside

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My first-born, Erin, is leaving home Saturday for Truman State University.  On my way to being an empty nester!  If you have a Facebook account..it seems like all of the postings the past few weeks are pictures of the college bound kids on their way out the door. This blog isn’t going to be about how much I’ll miss her, or advice I want to share with her..it’s about Erin leaving Brookside.  She’s spent here whole life here so far…how has it influenced her?

As Erin grew up, she realized what a special place this is…..she played in the nearby parks, biked the trail, friended the neighbors, babysat for families, attended  three different schools.  She learned to appreciate the uniqueness of the homes here, inside and out. (Whenever she would come home from visiting a new friend’s home, she would  tell me about it –the original charming features, the curb appeal, the lush finished basements.)  She enjoyed supporting locally owned businesses. Her first job was at The New Dime Store, and she always had stories about various customers and family friends that stopped by.  She learned a lot there about working with the public!

Erin at The New Dime Store

Of course she will ‘come home to Brookside’ for holidays and summers, but she won’t be really living here as before.  Her carefree childhood as a Brookside kid is over.   As she flies away, I know she will get a warm, nostalgic  feeling every time she drives back here through our streets, visiting with old  friends at  63rd and Brookside  for drinks, a meal or Foos Frozen Custard.   When she’s older, ready to choose her own home,  will she be influenced by her Brookside childhood?  Will she chose an urban, walkable, neighborhood full of older homes and locally owned restaurants and shops?  Will she want to come back and live in Brookside??

It’s a small community here, and Erin is leaving to explore the world.  Her Brookside roots will stay strong.  I know her Brookside home will always be with her, wherever in the world she ends up.

Street Work at E 68th and Main, Armour Hills

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What’s happening at the three intersections along Main St in Armour Hills, starting at E 68th Terrace and going north?  I stopped today and chatted with the workers to find out. (The City subcontracts this work).

Street Blockage Armour Hills

Apparently there are leaks in the main water valves under the street.  The homeowner at E 68th Terrace and Main reported the leak to the City over a year ago, according to the workers on site.  At the corner of E  68 and Main, a water valve was inserted. This work has nothing to do with the federally mandated sewer upgrade project.

Six Feet Under the Street!

It was interesting to peer inside the hole where the work is being done. ..yes, it’s about 6 feet under!  These pipes are the original cast steel pipes, laid in the early 1920s.  The sections around the water valves are being replaced with ductal iron pipe.  After all the work is completed, the City should send someone out to resurface the asphalt at these three intersections.  No timetable for that project.

In the meantime, it’s a bit of an inconvenience to drive around these intersections but at least KCMO finally got around to addressing the problems!  If the resurfacing doesn’t happen in a timely manner, I’ll follow up with a call to the Public Works Department.

Louis CK: Give Kansas City Another Chance!

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I really like the FX show Louie.  Loosely based on the life of comedian Louis CK, this show is about Louie as a stand up comedian, raising his two girls in New York City and trying to find a significant other to share life’s daily struggles.  It’s not  a true comedy, it’s not a strict drama, it’s…unusual.  It’s a combination of things:  hilarious, sad, odd, surreal, preachy, extremely personal, raw, sweet and touching. FX gives Louis CK complete creative control over the show–so the star writes, edits and produces the show himself. And it’s been nominated for several Emmys this year.

Louie — TV show on FX

So in last Thursday’s episode (airdate: August 2, 2012), Louie is doing a phone interview with a radio station to promote his (fictional) upcoming shows in Kansas City at Stanford and Sons because the ticket sales are slow. After some very funny, undecipherable banter with the DJs, Louie blurts out  how much he hates Kansas City.  He says, in part,  “Kansas CIty is the worst town I’ve ever been in…what a dump.  It’s the worst city in North America, and that includes Canada and Mexico”.  After this rant, the radio hosts end the interview. This is the third time I’ve heard Louie rag on about Kansas City –why does he keep bringing it up that he hates it here?

I think it was on Marc Maron’s podcast WTF? that I first heard Louie tell a story about his horrible experience in KC.  It was something like: he did a show,  got high after with the staff, and then got lost trying to get back to his hotel. I don’t remember exactly.  But it was clear he had a horrible time. Then, earlier this year he was on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and ranted about it again.  Now  he’s dissing us  on the TV show.  Really,  Louie, was every visit here so  bad that you have to keep harping on it? You haven’t been back since to give us another chance?  Don’t you know we just hosted the All Star Game?  We were chosen to be the first city to have the Google superfast fiber network? Hey, we have some culture  and it IS possible to have a good time here! Other comedians from the area love it when they come home (Rob Riggle, Jason Sudekis, Paul Judd, Eric Stonestreet)..maybe you aren’t hanging with the fun crowd during your visits??

Louie, come back to Kansas City.  Skip the comedy club.  Do a show in my backyard (that’s very trendy now for up and coming touring musicians–they love the intimate atmosphere) and bring the girls–they can play in the park down the block. I’ll invite all my friends who love your show and your unique style of comedy.  Before the  show, we can grab some BBQ at Oklahoma Joe’s (your kind of place–it’s housed in a gas staton).  After the show, we’ll walk to   Foos for frozen custard–I know how much you love ice cream! Your agent can book you at one of our fancy hotels (yes, we do have them, you’ll be treated well).  I’ll give you a city tour–you can see our beloved Shuttlecocks, cruise the Country Club Plaza, and we’ll do the art walk if you are here on the first Friday of the month. Sit by yourself in a coffee shop and see how many people give you a warm smile.  Nope, Kansas City is not New York..but it does have a lot to offer, and I’ll bet you’ll be surprised the good time  you’ll have here. Be more…open-minded.

Louis, you’ve finally made the big time…and did it your way.  Don’t get caught now  in the bubble of unending adoration, yes men all around, playing all  big theaters for mucho bucks, just seeing each city from the limo window and concierge level. Remember what a good time you had  hanging in Miami? You can experience the same in Kansas City…give us another chance!!

The Picnic Project at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

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OK, this isn’t a blog about Brookside…but about an event I know many Brooksiders will attend!

It’s “The Picnic Project” this Sunday, July 15 2012 on the lawn at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art.  Everyone loves the   front lawn of the Nelson…it’s magnificent, I never tire of looking at it. On Sunday the lawn will be transformed into a huge picnic area, open to the public.

For the past several weeks, there have been several fabric painting workshops around the city.  Anyone could paint a 5ftx5ft red or white canvas ‘blanket’.  These individual  blankets will be assembled into one huge  10,000 sf picnic blanket on the lawn Sunday from noon-2pm, and the picnic is 2-4.

Picnic Project blanket squares

Kansas City based artist Alison Heryer is the creator of this public art piece.  She teaches fiber art at the Kansas City Art Institute.  What a fascinating sight this will be for everyone to enjoy!

If you decide to make a day of it at the Nelson, remember their featured exhibition this summer is Inventing the Modern World: Decorative Arts at the World’s Fairs 1851-1939.

Summer 2012 Exhibit Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

Looking for Bargains? Come to Brookside this Weekend!

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The annual Brookside Shops Sidewalk Sale is happening this weekend!  Today through Sunday…walk on over to 63rd and Wornall, head east and browse the bargains!  Make a day of it and stop for lunch along the way!  Remember the Saturday morning farmers’ market is full of fresh fruit, vegetables and homemade goodies this time of year.  Bring a bag and stock up!

Visiting KC for the All Star Game? Come to Brookside-A Neighborhood of Locally Owned Shops & Restaurants!

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Are you in Kansas City for the All Star Game? Looking for someplace a bit different to visit–for shopping or dining? Then come to Brookside!

Sure, you can go to the Country Club Plaza…and the Power and Light District…you will see the usual national chain stores and restaurants. But if you want to discover some friendly, locally owned business, come to Brookside. Just drive about two miles south of the Plaza at 63rd St and Brookside Blvd (or take the MAX bus). Park the car along any residential street…and join the neighbors walking to various businesses and services. Yes it’s hot..but we have lots of shade in Brookside due to our tall, leafy trees!  Our merchants association website link is here.

Artwork in Brookside; shops in background

Dining options:

Julian –  Top Chef contestant and James Beard award winner Celina Tio’s casual neighborhood restaurant with excellent food and service. Call for reservations.

Carmen’s Café – Casual southern Italian food and tapas, full bar. Good for take-out, too.

Blue Grotto – Wood fired pizzas and tapas, full bar.

Charlie Hoopers –  Beloved neighborhood bar and grill with lots of TVs, games and bar food.

Michael Forbes Grill –  Casual American food, try the pot roast soup, catfish and fresh cut fries.

Bella Napoli – Italian grocer and small restaurant/pizzeria.

The Roasterie Café – Best latte in town, free wi-fi.

Shopping:

Stuff – An art fair in a store.  Hand made jewelry, décor, art.

5B&Co Candlemakers –  Candles and gifts, the usual, and some unusual, fragrances. Get  the “Brookside Bungalow” candle for a special gift.

Reading Reptile – A children’s bookstore, worth a visit just to see the décor.

Brookside Art Fair banner, 2011

Shopgirls – Always changing, eclectic clothes and jewelry you won’t find in a mall.

World’s Window – Décor, clothes, scarves, jewelry from around the world.

The New Dime Store –  Forget something? The Dime Store probably has it. A true five and dime, like in the old days.

This list represents just a few of the more popular places Brookside has to offer.  There’s much  more to discover as you  walk along 63rdStreet and the nearby side streets.  We’re glad you are here…come join us in Brookside for a unique, local experience during your stay!

Armour Hills Homes Assn Board Meeting June 2012

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Hi neighbors!

Here’s a brief recap from the Armour Hills homes association board meeting on June 19, 2012:

*Mark your calendar for July 18, we are hosting a special security meeting for residents at the Country Club Congregational Church at 6pm.

*We will also host the annual Armour Hills Freedom Parade on the Trolley Track Trail July 4.  Gather at the south end of the trail near Gregory at 9:30, parade begins at 10am.  Prizes and refreshments included!

*Troy Schulte, Kansas City MO City Manager, will be our featured speaker at the Annual Meeting in November.

*Our tree planting project will begin in the Fall.

*We are applying for new PIAC funds to make improvements in Arbor Villa park.

*Melissa Saubers is working on improved communication via social media for our residents.  She is working on a Facebook page, the Clarion and our website.

*Remember the annual Ice Cream Social is September 7.

Our next meeting is July 17, 7pm, at the Church.  All residents welcome!

Why I Love Eclectics In Waldo

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–I love shopping at art fairs…you always find the most unique items, especially hand made jewerly.  Usually whenever I’m wearing something I purchased at an art fair, someone remarks on it in a complimentary way.

Eclectics 7015 Oak in Waldo

Eclectics is like an art fair..that’s always here!  This artists cooperative is celebrating it’s 21st year in Waldo at 7015 Oak.  The shop features all local artists, everything made by hand, and the selection is constantly changing.  While browsing in the shop recently, they were featuring wearable wooden ties for Father’s Day!

I often by ‘welcome to your new home’ gifts for clients from Eclectics.  They have unique lamps, yard art, wall art and mirrors, glassware and textiles.  Plus, they gift wrap anything you buy in colorful tissue and ribbons.

Eclectics doesn’t have a regular website, but you can find out more about them at http://oureclecticlives.blogspot.com.  They offer various classes and have  regular artists shows throughout the year.  This year’s themes are:  glow, grow, bow, crow and show.

Summer hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-6pm.  Staffed by artists who sell at the shop, you’ll always find a friendly, helpful person at the desk to assist you.

So often we can be stuck on what to get that special person who would really appreciates a piece of handmade jewelry or unusual piece of decor..a stop by Eclectics is sure to inspire you.  And like me, you will probably buy a piece of jewerly for yourself while you are there!

The Bike Shop–A Midtown Treasure

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The  Bike Shop at 5100 Troost..this is an example of how someone can take their passion and turn it into a thriving community service!  You’ve probably noticed more and more bicyclists along the road during these warmer days, especially on Saturday mornings.  Thanks to Kansas City resident Elizabeth Bejan and her bike store, a good quality used bike is now available for anyone.

The Bike Shop, 5100 Troost

The Bike Shop is part of RevolveKC, a non-profit group Elizabeth started a few years ago.  Here, anyone can ‘earn a bike’ by taking a bike safety course and passing a simple skills test or by volunteering at the Bike Shop.  You can also get information on how to use your bike for commuting, donate old bicycles for refurbishing or buy a used bike.

One of the coolest aspects of the Bike Shop is its building at 5100 Troost.  Formerly a gas station, this all brick building is easily accessible by bike and has a comfortable retro vibe.  It sits next to the Green Impact Zone, a 150 block area patched with urban blight and decay.  Elizabeth offers a special deal on bikes to residents of this Zone.

Elizabeth Bejan

Interested in joining a weekly bike ride group?  The Bike Shop has that covered as well.  Elizabeth’s business partner, Theresa Van Ackeren, owns Family Bicycles in Waldo.  Every Monday night,  Theresa hosts a moderately paced  bike ride around Kansas City  The ride departs at 6:30pm from the Family Bicycles location at 7410 Wornall.

If you’ve been thinking of using your bike more often–or need a bike for yourself, a friend or a child–stop by The Bike Shop (or Family Bicycles).  You’ll find friendly information and advice, along with encouragement to get you started!  Both businesses have  Facebook page.

Hey Anthony Bourdain, Try Dining in Brookside!

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So Anthony Bourdain’s excellent travel show, No Reservations, broadcasts an episode tonight that filmed in Kansas City last fall.  According to the article in today’s’ Kansas City Star, the visit focuses on many of our beloved barbecue joints.  It’s been done, Anthony!   We know how much you love Oklahoma Joe’s….you need to make a visit to Brookside for dining!  And if you did….here’s where I would take you….

First, a short stop at Waldo Pizza for an appetizer of their St Louis Style pizza.  OK, so maybe this pizza with provel cheese originated in St Louis, (and it’s in Waldo) but this is the kind of place Tony would like:  locally owned, crazy busy all the time, interesting artwork on the walls and a wait staff with lots of tats. My personal favorite is the fresh mushroom and pineapple pizza..go ahead and groan.  Along with our cheesy treat, Tony can try several of the freshly brewed beers from Boulevard.

Julian in Brookside

Our next stop for the entrée:  Julian.  No need to hop in your chauffeured limo, Tony, we can just walk along the Trolley Track Trail.  We’ll dine outside, as it would be a perfect spring evening.  Knowing what a pork fanatic Tony is, I would suggest we order the crispy pork shoulder with sweet potato puree.  This is SO tasty, I almost have to order it every time I go to Julian.  It must be a house specialty, as owner Celina Tio once told me how it’s made—it takes two days to concoct this dish!  Of course, Celina and Tony may recognize each other from their appearances on Top Chef—and don’t all those famous chefs know each other anyway? As tempting as it would be to stay for chocolate pudding and a ginger doughnut, we move on for dessert…

Tony isn’t big on eating sweets, but who could resist the profiteroles at Aixois?  A light pastry puff, split open and topped with vanilla bean ice cream, toasted almonds and chocolate sauce…so simple yet so good.  He would appreciate another casual, locally owned restaurant with a warm  atmosphere and reasonable prices. Tony might compare it to his old French bistro, Les Halles.  We’re not done yet, though, there is one more stop…

Heading back south on the trail, we would order lattes at The Roasterie Café.  Notice, Tony, the wide rimmed cups that provide a creamy sip of foam with

The Roasterie Cafe in Brookside

every drink of locally roasted coffee!   Ok, it’s not like drinking espresso in an Italian courtyard, but still, the people watching is good, the service friendly, and if you  crave another shot of chocolate…indulge in  a Christopher Elbow chocolate with your beverage. Or we could walk a bit further to Glace and try scoops of their artisan ice creams:  basil lime sorbet, salted pretzel, goat cheese and wildflower honey.  Sounds interesting, doesn’t it?

You see, Tony, our barbecue has  a well deserved great reputation..but there’s more to Kansas City than big smoky meat, fries and a cream soda.  Brookside is your kind of place…the next time you come to KC to satisfy a craving for Oklahoma Joe’s, spend some time dining in Brookside. Like all other  die hard New Yorkers, you’ll be surprised at what’s happening here outside of the barbecue scene.