Sep
07

Fall Festival at the Farmer’s Market

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The 2012 Farmers’ Market officially ends on Thursday, September 27. It’s been a hot summer of fresh produce, organic ice cream and down-home local fun. And we’d like to thank all of you who joined us, continuing one of Briarcliff’s best-loved traditions.

Now, join us for the Fall Festival and celebrate the last Farmers’ Market of the year. Our all-local vendors will have plenty of seasonal foods, including pumpkins and gourds for your autumn cooking and decor. The GreenAcres team will grill dinner on the patio, with cooking demos right inside. Bring the kids for face painting and fall crafts, and enjoy live music as we bring on a new season.

Get into the spirit of fall, and support our Kansas and Missouri Farmers. Thursday, September 27, 3-7 p.m. (Activities begin at 5 p.m.)

 

Jul
09

Cool Off with Healthy (and Free) Ice Cream

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Record temperatures this July have Briarcliff merchants and customers in the mood for something cool. GreenAcres, which sponsors a weekly outdoor Farmers’ Market, has decided to beat the heat by providing free ice cream at their event on Thursday, July 19. But as store spokesperson Jenny Johnston explains, don’t expect the usual 31 flavors.

“What we’re serving has almost no calories or fat, and is perfect for people who are lactose-intolerant or gluten-free,” Johnston says. “Plus, since it’s organic, the flavor is extra-rich. You can really taste the ingredients, like chocolate and strawberries.”

Wait. Did GreenAcres Market just manage to make some kind of miracle dessert? Rich in flavor and low in calories sound too good to be true–but Johnston assures us it’s not.

“Many people don’t realize how good organic alternatives are,” she says. “At GreenAcres, we’re constantly trying to educate people about healthier ways to treat yourself.”

This comes as good news for the many Kansas Citians with conditions like Celiac disease–as well as those of us who want to fit in our bathing suits. To see (or taste) for yourself, head out to the Farmers’ Market from 5-7 p.m. on July 19. Not only can you pick up a helping of free ice cream, you can purchase fresh toppings from the various local farmers who have their booths there: fresh blueberries, blackberries, peaches and more. Live music, a bounce house for the kids, and plenty of other delicious food tastings will be on the menu.

For more information about the GreenAcres Farmers’ Market, a Briarcliff Village tradition, contact GreenAcres at (816) 746-0010.

Jun
27

Take a Weekend Break from Sales Tax

By | Shop, Uncategorized, Village Events

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Fly to New Hampshire for the weekend, and you’ll notice something different. The price tag on clothing in the stores is actually the price you’ll pay. That’s right–no sales tax.

Of course, the Granite State makes up that revenue with other taxes and fees; but it’s nice to know exactly what you’re spending when you head to the register. And during the first weekend of August, Missouri shoppers will get a chance to experience the same convenience. The State Tax Free Holiday runs from Aug. 3-5, and extends to all clothing under $100. (New York City has a similar system year-round: no taxes on garments under $110.) The purpose of the Tax Free weekend is primarily to give families a small break when shopping for back-to-school items, such as clothes, bags and school supplies. But everyone who’s wardrobe shopping in Missouri can take advantage of it–and the boutiques at Briarcliff certainly hope you will.

Tax Free weekend is a great way to incentivize consumers to support small businesses. In effect, it’s a sale; but one where the government cuts its prices, not the entrepreneur. Furthermore, the timing of Missouri Tax Free Holiday to coincide with Back to School gives local merchants the chance opportunity to spotlight nationwide trends for fall, and all the great styles they’ve picked up for the new season.

Briarcliff’s three main clothing boutiques–Amelia’s, Design in the City, and Finishings for Her–will all have the latest fall fashions on hand. And don’t forget about shops like Urban Arts + Crafts and Shana Vaughn Designs, which sell handbags. (Or a Vera Bradley backpack from Finishings for Her, like the one pictured below.) Your little ones can qualify for a Tax Free discount at Lauren Alexandra, and you might even find some shoes at Smart Feet.

Tax Free Weekend is a win-win. Come out in support of local businesses, and take advantage of great savings at the same time.

May
30

Enjoy Free Summer Movies at Mulberry Lake

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A much-loved Briarcliff Village tradition returns this summer, with free movie nights at Mulberry Lake. Sponsored by the Briarcliff Trails community association, movies will screen every Saturday at 8:45 p.m., from June 2 through July 21.

Bring a blanket or chairs, dinner or snacks, and enjoy fun for the whole family. There’s no better way to spend a summer night.

Movie Schedule:
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (6-2)
Smokey and the Bandit (6-9)
Angels in the Outfield (6-16)
Despicable Me (6-23)
RV (6-30)
BREAK FOR JULY 4th WEEKEND
Cowboys and Aliens (7-14)
Wall-E  (7-21)

May
01

Farmers’ Market Adds a Fresh Take On Summer

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Savor all that’s best about summer with locally-grown foods, live music and outdoor festivities. The Briarcliff Farmers’ Market, sponsored by GreenAcres, runs every Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. until October. Join us outdoors in the Briarcliff parking lot from for some shopping, family fun, and the best local vendors in the area.

Every week, Missouri and Kansas farmers will be out in full force presenting their 100 percent organic produce, as well as jams, jellies and homemade baked goods.  You’re sure to hear us before you actually see us, since we’ll have live music on the sidewalk.  Park where you can and make your rounds to sample some of the best home-grown products anywhere.  There’s a woman who cans her own mustards; a man who makes homemade pastas; a berry vendor who has fresh blueberries, blackberries and strawberries.  Like a little spice in your life?  Check out the authentic Mexican tamales and salsas–yummm.  And Jerry’s Furniture will once again have handcrafted furniture for sale.

When you’re tired of all the seeing, visiting and buying outside, step inside GreenAcres Market for some of our own products: cheese and crackers, organic chips and dips…and to wash it all down, tastings from our wine collection.  There will be other product demonstrations, and as always, the GreenAcres knowledgeable staff will be on deck to answer any and all questions about wholesome, healthy living.  Welcome to summer!

 

Apr
17

Knowledge Is the Best Sunscreen

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Days are getting longer, school’s almost over, and everybody’s dreaming of basking in the sun. But don’t start your summer without the latest facts about skin protection, courtesy of the doctors at Sunflower Dermatology.

On Thursday, May 3 at 5:30 p.m., Doctors Molly Mesner and Brian Matthys will lead a free seminar on ”Healthy Skin: Learn to Detect and Prevent Skin Cancer Early.” According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is among the most common of all cancers. It can affect people of any age, even under 30. Come get equipped with the knowledge you need for a great summer in the sun.

To RSVP, please email jenny@sunflowerdermatology.com. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Apr
11

Salutations Recycles for Earth Day

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Any store that specializes in stationery has to make an effort to stay “green.” In that spirit, Maggie Goldsborough of Salutations by Mairead Design offers an Earth Day special to help her customers responsibly replace their old paper products before purchasing new ones.

Bring in any of your old stationery on April 20th or April 21st in celebration of Earth Day, and receive a 20% off coupon for a brand new, customer order from Salutations. (Orders must be placed by May 31. Some exclusions apply.) As a trained artist, designer and paper enthusiast, Maggie will help you choose a brand new set of cards, letterhead or envelopes that make an immediate statement about you. And your old, outdated stationery will be properly recycled when you’re gone.

For more information about Salutations’ custom designs or the Earth Day special, contact Maggie at (816) 888-5880.

Mar
30

March Madness Sale This Weekend!

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Two differences between basketball and shopping: one, the outfits are definitely cuter. And two, March Madness means everyone’s a winner. Finishings for Her, the fashion and accessories favorite in Briarcliff Village is tipping off its March Madness sale this weekend. So you can add to your wardrobe while your sports-minded friends are getting their brackets destroyed.

March Madness savings at Finishings for Her runs Friday, March 30 through Sunday, April 1. Slam dunk deals include 50% off selected jewelry, 25% off selected handbags, and Buy 1, Get 1 50% off all sportswear bottoms. (Meaning skirts, pants, shorts and jeans–including some designer labels like Miss Me.)

Like all sales, some exceptions do apply, so be sure to come in and check out the selection. Because a basketball game only lasts 40 minutes … but a cute new outfit lasts all season.

Mar
20

Spring Health Series at Green Acres

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Thinking about trips to the beach, fitting into your bathing suit, and a season of increased activity? If so, you’re not alone. Spring and summer are the time for fitness, when everyone gets outdoors and begins to think more consciously about health. At GreenAcres, health is a priority every day; but here are a few seminars timed just right to prepare you for a fabulously fit summer.

Everyone Needs Magnesium
Thursday, March 22, 7-8 p.m.

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body and is essential to good health. From regulating body temperature to producing healthy bones and teeth, magnesium is responsible for a number of daily functions your body performs daily. In addition, magnesium has been shown to fight osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, migraines and more. Find out how you can put more of this miracle mineral into your diet, and the health benefits you can expect as a result.

GreenAcres Health Fair
Saturday, March 24, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Come learn from the experts!  GreenAcres will host local wellness groups and practitioners to teach and show all about what they do. We’ll have all the healthiest food samples, gluten free dietitians, blood tests, massage, acupuncture, thermography demos and more. Get all your healthy living questions answered in one place.

This event is free to the public. No registration is necessary. Fees may apply if you choose to take advantage of one of the health screenings available on the day.

Managing Stress Naturally
Thursday, March 29, 7-8 p.m.

Stress isn’t all in your mind. Studies have shown that anxiety takes a measurable toll on a person’s body and health. In fact, excessive stress is downright dangerous. Learn how to manage your stress using natural methods, and greet the summer with a happier, healthier lifestyle.

 

For more information, contact GreenAcres at (816) 746-0010.

Feb
14

Briarcliff Financial Planners Reveal Smart Strategies

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Frustrated by the ups and downs of the stock market? Ameriprise Financial has a wealth of ideas that just might work for you. And during the next few months, they’ll be hosting a series of seminars about smart investing in a “post-2008” economy.

Join Fuller, Hartman, Sullivan and Associates on Tuesday, April 3, 5:30 p.m. at Piropos. In an informal setting, they will introduce the concept of non-traded Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and discuss why, for some, they can complement stocks, bonds or mutual funds you may currently own.

“Non-Traded REITs have only become more available to the average consumer in the last several years,” Jerry Fuller says. “This is a perfect opportunity for anyone who’s serious about planning for the future to learn something they might not have known.”

For more information or to sign up, contact Jerry at (816) 997-9780 or jerry.k.fuller@ampf.com.