KCPP Chief Development Officer, Marie Dispenza and Brookside Real Estate Owner, Jim Kraus
Brookside Real Estate announced a partnership with KC Pet Project during the summer if 2019. With each home bought or sold by Brookside Real Estate during the summer months, a donation was given to help provide medicine, veterinary care, vaccines, food and resources to help KC Pet Project save a record number of pets who have nowhere else to turn. The numbers are in and this holiday season seemed like a great time to present a check, so Brookside Real Estate owner, Jim Kraus, went up to the shelter to present a check to the Chief Development Officer, Marie Dispenza.
With KC Pet Project’s main adoption center currently located in a 50-year old reconverted storage shed, Brookside Real Estate could not be more excited for KC Pet Project’s groundbreaking new Kansas City Campus for Animal Care opening January 1st, 2020. The facility, located in Swope Park at the corner of Gregory Boulevard and Elmwood Avenue, will be one of the premier animal sheltering facilities in the United States.
Ready to buy or sell your home and make a difference in the lives of KC’s homeless pets? Give Jim a call directly on his cell phone at 816-806-7653.
How to keep your delivered packages out of the hands of thieves
The Brookside neighborhood has been all abuzz lately with various reports of package theft. Online shopping is more common than ever, and unfortunately, so are the doorstep thieves. Even with the increase of home security videos and cameras, there are too many stories of people disregarding these home protection services and still absconding with your packages. Brookside Real Estate is here to offer solutions to save your holiday package delivery!
1. Require a signature on your package delivery. There is a fee when selecting this option but depending on what you are shipping, it may be worth it. However, many people won’t be at home when the package arrives (which is the problem with the package stealing in the first place) so many shipping companies also include options to send packages to alternative locations.
2. Amazon has several alternative shipping options, especially for its Prime members. They offer everything from in-home delivery to in-garage delivery (for those with pets or alarm systems) to Amazon’s locker system. Many of these lockers are placed in local convenience stores or Whole Foods.
3. UPS Access Point System is another great tool. Not a Prime member and looking for your options? UPS allows you to register as a member and send your packages to a UPS Access Point (these include local retailers near you and often CVS locations). The paid premium membership offers a few extra options to your delivery experience, but you can utilize the UPS Access Point system through a regular free membership.
4. FedEx Delivery Manager. FedEx has a similar system set up with Walgreens. Simply sign up for the free membership and let them walk you through locating the closest store to you!
Know that most alternative locations will hold your package for seven days and will require an official ID upon pick up.
5. Leasing Office/Workplace Delivery If you live in an apartment, check with your office management; many places allow you to ship your package to their office from which you can pick up your package during business hours. Alternatively, have your packages delivered to your workplace if appropriate.
When it comes to preventing package theft; know your options! Have all of your holiday gifts delivered knowing that your packages are safer than they are with Santa.
Stepping through the front door of a local business can make you feel like a VIP – the barista calls you by name and sincerely asks about your day; the pet store owner knows your dog and all his antics; the local vendor at the farmer’s market checks up on your family.
In a world where busyness consumes our lives, a small business is a vision of growth, compassion, human connection, and intentional investment in the local community. Shopping locally isn’t just a trend, it truly creates an atmosphere of mutual support, creativity, and togetherness!
Why should you shop locally?
For a Stronger Planet – Shopping locally is an ever-growing and popular concept in today’s world of accessibility when just about anything can be purchased from all around the world. When food is purchased from larger chains, those products travel quite a way. Small businesses promote a cleaner environment because the goods produced in your local community don’t have to travel as far, therefore saving on fuel consumption and reducing air pollution.
For a Stronger You – Another benefit, especially with Brookside’s Farmers Market there is less distance between producer and buyer. The fresher the produce, the more nutritious it is! Shopping locally in a farmers’ market means you’re not only promoting environmental wellness, but your own health as well!
For a Stronger Economy – Local businesses, like cafes and boutiques, hire neighbors and often purchase goods from local vendors. This creates an opportunity for employment within the community. Shopping locally also promotes innovation, creativity and diversity because vendors can provide according to their community’s needs and not with a generalized selection of cookie-cutter merchandise.
For a Stronger Community – Local businesses are more likely to invest in the community whereas bigger corporations may donate to larger causes or worldwide aid but invest less in the local community. Shopping locally also increases the connection of neighbors and can develop a sense of community. Mr. Rogers would be proud.
Brookside offers a number of local shopping options from the Farmers Market to boutiques, cafes and one-of-a-kind specialty shops! Take the opportunity on November 30th national Small Business Saturday (or any Saturday!) to shop local and celebrate 100 years of local shopping in Brookside!
New to 63rd Street – Brookside Real Estate Company wants to welcome EB and Co.!
The perfect addition to Brookside, EB and Co. owner, Emily Bordner, has a mission to, “celebrate all the ways accessories empower confidence and inspire individuality.” We recently spoke with Emily to learn more about her new business and why she chose to open in our favorite neighborhood – Brookside!
Tell us a little bit about your background: Are you from Kansas City? What made you decide to open your own shop?
I grew up in Lee’s Summit, but have lived in the KC area most of my life. I’ve been in business for seven years working with different local retailers. Then I had my first personal location as a booth in the Made in KC Marketplace on the Plaza. We’ve been there for just over a year. I have loved having a space there and after getting a taste of that, I knew I had to save up to open a store of my very own. It just felt like that was the next natural progression.
Emily Bordner
Do you design/create your own jewelry pieces? If so, do any of the pieces have a story behind them?
It’s really a combination. I’ve designed some of the jewelry myself in addition to wholesale many pieces. I’m most proud of the collaborative pieces, which I design with local bloggers and have handmade in Los Angeles. The bloggers and I sit down and think about what’s missing or lacking in the market right then.
Our Shelby pieces were fun. We were trying to come up with something dainty with minimal sparkle that works great for the office or if you’re looking to hit a happy hour. They’ve been our best-selling pieces of jewelry so far! I also design all of the the leather goods, which are all currently manufactured in Kansas City.
What can customers expect when they shop at EB and Co.?
We want people to have a chill experience in a modern but welcoming environment. We want people to not feel pressured and take the time to try things on as much as they want. We were able to capture this relaxed and fresh feeling with our hand painted mural, a space to have an Instagram moment and tons of approachable stylish pieces. We aim to have a range of options. We have classic, trendy and multigenerational pieces. We also offer complimentary gift-wrapping which people seem to really like.
Why did you decide to open your shop in Brookside?
I have always loved Brookside and spent a great deal of time there in college when I worked at Bella Napoli, which was such a rewarding experience. Supporting local businesses is a real matter of pride in Brookside. It’s just a fun, exciting place to be. When the space became available, I just had to move on the opportunity to be part of this great community.
What’s your favorite thing about having your shop located in this area?
I love being among so many long-term shops that span generations from Design in the City to World’s Window to Brookside Toy and Science. As the new kid on the block I have so many wise mentors for neighbors to learn from.
Next time you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by Emily Bordner’s new shop and see for yourself why we love EB & Co.! While you’re here, pay a visit to your friends at Brookside Real Estate Company located at 9 W 63rd St – when the flag is up, we’re open!
Celebrating 100 years this September, Brookside is full of subdivisions rich in Kansas City history. Three of these historic neighborhoods are Crestwood, Countryside and Morningside. Each notable for their own distinctive features, we decided to take a closer look at why these subdivisions make up Kansas City’s best neighborhood – Brookside!
Crestwood
A little city of its own, the Crestwood subdivision was developed in 1920 by the J.C. Nichols Investment Company. Located just south of the UMKC campus to 56th Street between Oak and Holmes, Crestwood was designed as a “garden home” development for “high class residence purposes.” Today, the subdivision is still one of Brookside’s premier neighborhoods full of large, beautiful homes with a variety of architecture including Cape Cods, traditional Colonials and Tudor Revivals, but also Mid-Century Modern and even a home shaped like a teepee!
Countryside
“These are my neighbors, my parish, my everything,” said Brookside Real Estate Owner and Broker, Jim Kraus of the Countryside subdivision. Jim has lived in Countryside all of his life and even sold his first listing there! Noted as the most walkable neighborhood just south of The Plaza, Countryside is located from 51st Street to 57th Street between Oak and Wornall. Directly east of Loose Park, Countryside is still affordable with homes ranging from $220,000 to $1,000,000 this past year. However, homes located west of Main Street are nationally recognized by the KCMO Historic Preservation Commission, meaning approval is needed for additions and the rebuild of homes.
Morningside
Made up of Morningside Park, Meadow Park and Hinkle Place, Morningside is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods Brookside has to offer. Unlike streets in other Brookside subdivisions, Morningside Drive is a street that does not pick back up – making those who live on the limited street very distinctive. A unique feature of Morningside is the old Trolley Track Trail Depot located at 6000 Main Street. Now converted into a family home, many passing by would never know the rich history that lives inside the home.
Ready to see some of the historic Brookside neighborhoods for yourself? Give the Brookside Real Estate (and history!) experts a call at (816) 333-3330. We can’t wait to show you even more reasons why Brookside is Kansas City’s best neighborhood.
Recognized nationally every September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a campaign organized to increase awareness of pediatric cancer and raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.
Almost every day in Kansas City a child is diagnosed with cancer. In 2018 alone, there were more that 16,000 children and adolescents diagnosed and nearly 1,200 children who lost their battle to cancer. With no current cure, it is still the largest killer of children in the United States.
Children undergoing cancer treatments spend an average of 120 days in the hospital. These children can often become depressed, isolated and fearful. Thankfully, a local nonprofit foundation held near and dear to the hearts of everyone here at Brookside Real Estate Company is doing something about this.
Bags of Fun KC/the Gabby Krause Foundation delivers the power of play to children fighting cancer and other long term, life threatening illnesses. Director, Louisa Weinrich explained, “A bag of fun is a backpack filled to the brim with 12-15 items picked specifically for each child’s needs, interests and treatment plan. Each bag of fun is filled with hours of distraction, educational items, as well as items that encourage socialization and items that bring comfort. Not only do bags of fun give the children something to focus on during their treatments, but they also give the families of these children the sense that someone else cares.”
We at Brookside Real Estate have proudly been a local partner of Bags of Fun KC/the Gabby Krause Foundation since their inception in 2011 and have had the pleasure of providing over 200 bags of fun to sick Kansas City children and their families. “All of us here are extremely passionate about helping bring a smile to the faces of these KC children who are being treated for long term, life threatening illnesses,” said Brookside Real Estate Owner and Broker, Jim Kraus, “The opportunity for Brookside Real Estate Company to partner with this organization means a lot to all of us, and we enjoy the opportunity to help spread the word throughout Kansas City and beyond about the fine work this organization does for young cancer patients and their families.”
If you would like to find out how you can help Bags of Fun KC/the Gabby Krause Foundation or sponsor a bag of fun for a child, you can do so by going to their website: www.bagsoffunkansascity.org
Are you looking to live in one of the finest condominium homes in Kansas City? Look no further than gorgeous condo 305-A located in Hemingway Plaza. With unique features and amenities, after just one look we know you’ll love this one-of-a-kind home.
This Plaza condo has artisan craftsmanship including hardwood accents, textured walls and stone flooring that will make you feel like you’re in a Colorado chalet. Featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a beautiful open floor plan, the 1,808 square foot condo will take your breath away. “The living space has been maximized to its full potential. A condo like this is very hard to come by in Kansas City,” said Brookside Real Estate Company’s Owner and Broker, Jim Kraus.
“We love the Plaza living!” said the current homeowner. “This is the perfect home for entertaining guests. We always have family over for Thanksgiving and go up on the rooftop patio to watch the Plaza Christmas lights turn on.” He continued, “In the fall we love walking across the street to the Plaza Art Fair! We really enjoy living right in the middle of the Kansas City Plaza action.”
The perfect mix of privacy, community and security – this home is the ideal living arrangement. While you have all of the privacy you need in your condo, you’ll also have a strong sense of community with your neighbors. In addition to community and privacy, you can rest easy knowing there is 24-hour security watching the Hemingway Plaza entrances.
More exclusive features include:
Custom chef’s kitchen with Viking stainless appliances
An enormous center island
Built in surround sound speakers
Exercise room
Valet parking optional
Additional storage optional
Beautiful rooftop patio overlooking the Plaza
Take a look at the rooftop patio in the videos below:
Ready to see condo 305-A at Hemingway Plaza for yourself? Contact Jim Kraus at 816-806-7653 or stop by our storefront office located at 9 W 63rd St – when the flag is up, we’re open!
This summer, when you buy or sell a house with Brookside Real Estate, we’ll make a $100 donation to KC Pet Project!
We know what a monumental moment it is to buy or sell your home. This summer, when you buy or sell a home with Brookside Real Estate, your life-changing decision will not only affect you, but also the lives of animals in the care of KC Pet Project.
Caring for over 10,000 animals a year, KC Pet Project is the third largest no-kill, open admission animal shelter in the United States. With each home bought or sold by Brookside Real Estate this summer, a $100 donation will be given to help provide medicine, veterinary care, vaccines, food and resources to help KC Pet Project save a record number of pets who have nowhere else to turn.
To kick off this exciting and meaningful partnership, Brookside Real Estate Company’s Owner and Broker, Jim Kraus recently presented an initial check for $1,000 to KC Pet Project’s Chief Communications Officer, Tori Fugate.
“We’re very excited to be partners with Brookside Real Estate Company this summer. A donation program like this definitely impacts our organization. This $1,000 kickoff donation will help us provide life-saving vaccinations for 40 new pets coming into our shelter, which is the average number we intake on a daily basis.” – Tori Fugate
With KC Pet Project’s main adoption center currently located in a 50-year old reconverted storage shed, Brookside Real Estate could not be more excited for KC Pet Project’s groundbreaking new Kansas City Campus for Animal Care opening later this year. The facility, located in Swope Park at the corner of Gregory Boulevard and Elmwood Avenue, will be one of the premier animal sheltering facilities in the United States.
“KC Pet Project’s programs and services are making history in Kansas City. This new, beautiful facility is exactly what the staff and pets deserve! We’re especially excited to help Kansas City pets find their fur-ever homes.” – Jim Kraus
To promote this partnership with KC Pet Project, Brookside Real Estate is promoting the donation program not only on the website and in social media, but also in the above billboard located on the corner of Wornall Rd and Gregory Blvd.
Said Brookside Real Estate Company’s Owner and Broker Jim Kraus, “KC Pet Project is a great organization – and we’re definitely a group of pet lovers here at Brookside Real Estate. And, as Realtors, we spend a fair amount of our day thinking about houses and homes. It just seemed natural to help KC Pet Project in their mission of finding forever homes for our four-legged friends. After all, a house truly becomes a home with the addition of beloved pet.”
Ready to buy or sell your home and make a difference in the lives of KC’s homeless pets? Give the pet lovers at Brookside Real Estate Company a call at (816) 333-3330 or stop by our storefront office at 9 W 63rd St – when the flag is up, we’re open!
The sun is shining, and things are heating up in Brookside! We can’t think of a better way to spend your summer days than by throwing on your walking shoes and heading to the heart of Kansas City – for big savings at the Brookside Sidewalk Sale and Brookside Market Days!
Voted Best Neighborhood in Kansas City, Brookside is home to over 80 unique shops, restaurants and service providers from award-winning restaurants to luxury pet stores – Brookside has it all!
This year’s annual Brookside Sidewalk Sale takes place Thursday, July 11th through Saturday, July 13th at participating Brookside businesses. Help your neighbors and shop local with discounts, in-store savings, special merchandise and more!
The summer shopping fun doesn’t stop there! Brookside merchants and restaurants are teaming up with the Brookside Farmers Market for Brookside Market Days. Every Saturday this summer, receive special discounts, offers and sales at local shops and restaurants when you visit the Brookside Farmers Market.
Open every Saturday this summer from 8:00am – 1:00 pm, the Brookside Farmers Market offers a wholesome atmosphere featuring live music, fresh produce and local organic products. This family-friendly environment is the perfect way to keep the kids entertained while you search for your local treasures!
Some special Brookside Market Days offers include:
Be on the lookout for more special offers to come!
Mark your calendars and get ready for a summer of savings in Brookside! While you’re in the neighborhood, stop by 9 W 63rd St and visit your friends at Brookside Real Estate – when the flag is up, we’re open.
It’s summer time in Kansas City and this year KC has it all! With the help of Visit KC, the Kansas City lovers of Brookside Real Estate are here to keep your calendar full of some of our favorite festivals, events and celebrations of the season.
KC Live! Hot Country Nights
Hot Country Nights – May 30-August 15 (Weekly): An annual Kansas City favorite, take on the heat of Hot Country Nights at Power & Light District every Thursday night. With live music from headliners including Midland, Brett Young and Justin Moore, we know we’ll be attending a few free Hot Country Nights this summer!
First Fridays in the Crossroads Arts District: Nothing says Fri-yay like free First Fridays in the Crossroads! No two First Fridays are the same thanks to a wide-ranging mix of art galleries, boutiques, food trucks and more. This event held the first Friday of every month offers something for all in one of KC’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Heart of America Shakespeare Festival – June 11-July 7: This summer, enjoy Heart of America Shakespeare Festival’s presentation of Shakespeare in Love. The weekly reoccurring free performance at Southmoreland Park entertains a modern audience while giving greater insight into Shakespeare’s most well-known play, Romeo and Juliet.
Boulevardia – June 14-15: KC’s Stockyards District in the West Bottoms transforms into one of Kansas City’s favorite festivals hosted by Boulevard Brewing Co. Complete with concerts, food trucks, a family carnival, beer stations and more!
KC RiverFest – July 4: Celebrate the Fourth of July at Berkley Riverfront Park! This festival begins with a day of activities, food, live music and more. Once the sun goes down, enjoy one of the largest fireworks shows in the Midwest!
Grand Carnivale – July 14-August 4: Experience Worlds of Fun like never before and celebrate different cultures around the world, including Italy, France, China, India and Germany. From unique foods and drinks to games, crafts, live music and entertainment – the Grand Carnivale has something for everyone.
Ethnic Enrichment Festival – August 16-August 18: Diverse Kansas City cultures representing dozens of countries unite at historic Swope Park for a weekend full of native foods, crafts, ethnic music and dancing. This event is one of the largest festivals of its kind featuring more than 60 different cultures.
Kansas City Irish Fest – August 31-September 2: Embrace KC’s Celtic heritage with three days of fun at Crown Center. With over 30 bands on seven stages, special performances, activities for the kids and more, your Celtic Pride is sure to shine this summer at KC Irish Fest!
KC Beer Fest – September 14: Craft beer lovers, this event is for you! Head out to Power & Light District for over 200 craft beers from familiar local names including KC Bier Co, Martin City Brewing Co, Cinder Block Brewery and more.
Plaza Art Fair – September 20-22: End summer and welcome fall with this nationally recognized, nine-block art event held at Country Club Plaza. Gather with friends and family and join over 250,000 for a weekend of art, live music, food and drinks from a range of KC restaurants.
How to keep your delivered packages out of the hands of thieves
We know what a monumental moment it is to buy or sell your home. This summer, when you buy or sell a home with Brookside Real Estate, your life-changing decision will not only affect you, but also the lives of animals in the care of KC Pet Project.
