Johnson County, KS June 2024

The Men’s Issue

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Wade Kotarba | wade.kotarba@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com

An inspirational man has the incredible power and privilege of shaping and mentoring the young people in their lives to grow and mature in a multitude of ways. Whether they are a father, a coach, a neighbor, an uncle or a boss, being a role model and leading by example can make a lasting impact on those watching. We can all probably think of a man in our life that has had a big impact on us at one time or another. Whether it was someone pushing us to be a better version of ourselves, or someone who sees the best in us, or someone we look up to for guidance, or perhaps someone we don’t personally know but that inspires us by their greatness, we can recognize the impact these role models have made. I have always had an immense amount of respect and admiration for my dad. He is a great man, and an incredible father and grandfather. The older I get, and the more life that happens with trials, ups and downs, and going through all the various stages of parenthood, the more I respect the type of father that my dad chose to be his entire life. He is a father filled with integrity, love, humor, support and strength. He is someone that all of us in my family want to emulate because he is humble, kind, strong, courageous and a peacemaker. He is the calm in any storm, and although he is a man of few words, he is full of wisdom. Being around him and watching him just makes all of us want to be a better person.

This month we are honoring men and their contribution to the betterment of our community. To all of the men out there that are making a difference in someone’s life, big or small, we applaud you. The lasting impact that you are making and the ripple effect that often ensues changes lives for the better.

ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @JOHNSONCOUNTYCITYLIFESTYLE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Mindy Hargesheimer, Lauren Powers, Judy Goppert, Allison Swan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

KC CUSTOM HARDWOODS: TURNING SALVAGED WOOD INTO MASTERPIECES

ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Jay Norris, founder of KC Custom Hardwoods gives a look into his daily life of woodworking, designing, and growing a successful business doing what he loves.

The story starts back in 2008 when Jay’s father’s farm had trees cut down on the property. Jay was surprised to see how much wood there was, and instead of getting rid of it, he saved it. He bought a saw and began cutting it up and selling it for various uses. It was not until 2015 that he began making furniture. “It started small with friends and family, then I acquired more tools, and as more orders came in, I decided it was time to talk my friend Nick Bianco into starting a business,” Jay said. And they did just that. Stepping away from his corporate job, Jay set out to begin KC Custom Hardwoods with the mission of building high quality products using salvaged logs.

At KC Custom Hardwoods you can find dining room tables, conference tables, (which are the company’s current top sellers, so be sure to check them out!), custom furniture, art pieces, and more. Jay is a self-taught designer and has made some incredible and unique pieces. He is inspired by the art, design and craftmanship daily. “If it is a new design, it starts with me, and my favorite thing about the job is trying new things never seen before” Jay said.

There is a lot to be learned about the woodworking process. In fact, did you know it takes anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to dry the wood before it is able to be made into something? According to Jay, “too much moisture in the wood, and the end product will fail.” The team at KC Custom Hardwood has an involved process of salvaging, drying, cutting, and categorizing the wood until it is ready for use. “Sometimes clients have a particular wood in mind for a project and our inventory system helps us be able to see what we have in stock and quickly get to it,” Jay said.

The team at KC Custom Hardwoods salvages wood for their work. The company reuses logs in the furniture instead of it ending up in the dump. “The one thing I wish people knew about the business is that we salvage the logs after storms, from construction sites, or tree removal services. So, instead of the wood being thrown away, these pieces are salvaged, and then created into something for customers seeking one-of-a kind items,” Jay said.

Some of the wood even has interesting back stories with ties to the community. Recently, the team at KC Custom Hardwoods was asked to salvage a 15,000-pound oak tree in the Waldo area that had to be removed due to obstructions to the road and sidewalk. This tree was unique in that it had a 7-foot diameter growth coming out of it, making it a memorable landmark for those in the area. Jay and the team got to work and enlisted help from two cranes to help lift the large tree. Those who were familiar with this tree already bought slabs of the wood to have a piece of it, and the homeowners whose property it was on will also receive some as well, making a memory out of the tree.

The other unique use for a recently salvaged tree is from a large maple tree on the property of Queen of the Holy Rosary in Prairie Village. The tree needed to be removed, but the wood will be used for items in the church, including a conference table and a decorative timeline log that hangs on the wall and shows the growth rings of this 100+ year old tree.

As you can see, there is history and passion involved in every step of KC Custom Hardwood’s process and end products. Recently, the team opened a showroom in Stillwell, KS that puts several exceptional items on display for customers to browse and purchase. If you are in the market for hand-crafted and stunning items for your home or office, be sure to check out KC Custom Hardwoods at www.kccustomhardwoods.com and follow along behind the scenes on Facebook or Instagram

https://www.facebook.com/KCCustomHardwoods

https://www.instagram.com/KCCustomHardwoods

“SO,

INSTEAD OF THE WOOD BEING THROWN AWAY, THESE PIECES ARE SALVAGED, AND THEN CREATED INTO SOMETHING FOR CUSTOMERS SEEKING ONEOF-A KIND ITEMS.”

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Kansas City Porche Club A CONVERSATION WITH THE

Turbocharge your love for Porsche with KC’s local community

ARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

The Kansas City Region Porsche Club of America (KCRPCA) has existed for over fifty years, giving Porsche owners a place to bond over the mutual love for one of the most iconic cars ever created. We took the time to chat with local chapter member and former Board Member, Jeffrey Tudas, about what the club entails and to give a glimpse into how fun and tight-knit this crew is.

CL: WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE PORSCHE THAT PEOPLE FALL IN LOVE WITH?

JT: The Porsche 911 model is so iconic and recognizable, and while there are other models, this is the one that resonates the most with people. The other thing is in addition to having an authentic racing heritage, they are also true street cars that you can drive comfortably and enjoyably. 70% of Porsches made are still on the road today which tells you that the DNA of the Porsche brand is exemplary.

CL: WHEN AND WHERE DOES THE CLUB MEET?

JT: We have a very active club that hosts a weekly Saturday 7 am breakfast at Pegah’s in Lenexa, where at least 50 or more members gather and chat about everything from the shiny new penny of a model that someone bought to the latest family news. While the club is still predominantly male, the females designated the first Saturday of each month as the Ladies Who Brunch event. Additionally, the chapter hosts many ongoing events, such as New Member gatherings, Driving Tours, Autocross, Ice Cream Socials, and the annual Oktoberfest and Christmas parties.

CL: WHO ARE THE MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL CHAPTER AND HOW DOES ONE BECOME ONE?

JD: We have a very active club filled with both male and female Porsche owners. When you buy a Porsche, you are encouraged to join the PCA and in doing so, our local chapter is notified of the buyer and the model they purchased. From there, the Membership Director reaches out to connect and invites them in to join for breakfast. The best part is that there is something for everyone in the club: Some simply love going to breakfast while others go specifically to test their driving skills while weaving their way through Auto Cross. Driver’s Education offers the opportunity to drive with an experienced instructor around a race track, and even junior fans are strongly encouraged to join as members and exercise their early love for the automobile.

Sidenote, Jeff and I chatted about the common bond of being a kid and recognizing then the power of the Porsche. Jeff grew up with a poster on his wall and has always remembered the first time he saw one on the road. For me, it was navigating my remote-controlled black 911 model all around, and as a minor, I lived for that small but mighty, aspirational driving experience.

“It starts with the cars, but it’s really about the people and the overall experience. I joined this club because I bought a Porsche, but these people have become very good friends over the years. If I have a need, whether

Porsche or family-related, I know where to go. It’s hard to explain but it’s truly more than the cars.”

“Porsche Kansas City and the local chapter of the Porsche Club of America have developed a close relationship in the promotion of the greatest sports car brand available: Porsche,” says Robert Kellweg of Aristocrat Motors.”We are a sponsor of the Kansas City Region and value the role of the members as brand ambassadors, who enhance the entire brand.”

Learn more about joining this community and read up on the award-winning KCRPCA newsletter at kcrpca.org and @kcrpca

5 Don't Dos for Protecting Your Finances During the Mid-Life Years

By Marc Shaffer, CFP ® , AIF® , EA CFO at Searcy Financial Services, a Fee-Only, NAPFA Registered Advisory Firm

There articles are for countless people nearing or in retirement, and just as many for young people starting out on their financial journey. But some of the most critical years can be the middle-age ones. It's a long stretch of years where things seem to just "move along." However, there are so many major decisions made and actions taken during these years, along with the overall choice of how you live your life, that have an impact on your finances. Don't overlook these coasting years.

1. Don't Overlook a Spending Plan: Although having an updated, working budget would be ideal, having at least something in place that takes into account your financial goals and income/expenses is critical. Without one, you could be derailed by emergency expenses or find yourself with excessive debt. Both situations can have crippling aftereffects if you can't build yourself back up. This is also an area where lifestyle creep (you make more but also spend more, so you don't really get ahead) can bite you.

2. Don't Ignore Inflation: In recent years, we have seen normal daily purchases skyrocket. Image how much inflation you might encounter in a 25 year mid-life span. Inflation can impact your purchasing power, the real cost of debt, and the value of your cash savings over time. Use these years to diversify and look for investment opportunities that could outpace inflation. Make your money work for you.

3. Don't Ignore Retirement Savings: These are the years to fight the "burning a hole in

my pocket" feeling of money. You'll likely start bringing in an income that increases regularly and will face many situations where you can spend that money. Pay your future self first by ensuring you have retirement plans and savings accounts prepared to meet your retirement needs. Most people are surprised to find that simply maximizing your employer provided retirement plan account doesn't guarantee that you are on track for financial freedom.

4. Don't Ignore Your Own Financial Wellbeing: It's possible that two generations could inadvertently derail your financial future during these years: your children and your parents. Having to take care of their needs, be it with loans, funding their lifestyle or emergency needs, or paying for major milestones like a wedding or gifting a house down payment, can all leave you in a vulnerable place. If these are costs you plan to cover, make sure you're accounting for them in your financial plan and that saving for them doesn't cause you to not save in other areas. It's also ok to say "no" to friends and family when they ask for your support.

5. Don't Feel Alone: A financial advisor can help you stay on track during these years and avoid potential pitfalls. They can help you determine a mix of investments that fit your goals and risk tolerance. They can also remind you of important tasks such as estate planning and insurance needs, and can help you factor in major purchases,

inflation and healthcare,

among others. Where you stand.

Fishing with Purpose

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

At Top Tier Fishing Guide, they stay true to their name by providing top-tier service from the moment you arrive at the dock. Whether you're an experienced fisher or a novice looking to reel in your first catch, they’ve got you covered. Owner Daryl Randolph, Sr. is the passionate angler taking guests on an adventure that promises relaxation, excitement and unforgettable memories.

“My love for fishing started with my 93-year-old great uncle, Theodore Scott, who taught me everything I know about the outdoors,” says Daryl. “As I sharpened my fishing skills, more and more people wanted to go fishing with me. That's when I decided to turn this into a business. My uncle taught me to do everything with a spirit of excellence. From the moment you arrive you’ll receive top tier service, which includes a warm welcome, safety guidelines, a few basic techniques, a relaxing boat ride, great company and a wonderful fishing experience. All fishing gear, rods, reels, bait and tackle are provided. All fish caught are cleaned, filleted and sent home with each customer on ice.”

With a childhood spent fishing the waters of Missouri and Kansas, he’s honed his skills to become an accomplished angler. This passion for fishing has taken him to various countries, where he’s had the opportunity to fish different species.

“As a person that's traveled to Costa Rica, the Bayous of Louisiana, and to Lake El Salto in Mexico, I've learned that there are so many varieties of fish and fishing. The first thing a fisherman must know is what species they are after. You must also know the primary food that particular fish eat. Always look for birds when determining good feeding grounds.  Remember, a positive attitude is the best bait for any kind of fish.”

CONTINUED >

“From the moment you arrive you’ll receive top tier service, which includes a warm welcome, safety guidelines, a few basic techniques, a relaxing boat ride, great company and a wonderful fishing experience.”

contributed to the success of these endeavors, both on and off the water.

“There isn't a targeted audience, however, I've taken many young males who haven't had a father present fishing to provide guidance, encouragement, and instruction. At the same time, I've taken seniors out to show them that they are not forgotten and they can enjoy the great outdoors with a little time and patience.”

However, his heart remains in guiding fishing trips at local lakes such as Clinton Lake, John Redmond Lake, Perry Lake, La Cygne Lake and Hillsdale Lake. His specialty lies in catching crappie, striped bass and catfish.

As a Senior Pastor, he’s chosen to utilize the sport of fishing as a means of transformation for inner-city youth and young adults. Through sponsoring programs and fundraisers, he aims to reach those who may have lost hope and provide them with a positive outlet. His sense of humor and unwavering positivity have

As he looks to the future, the goal to expand his reach and impact remains at the forefront. Daryl aspires to take youth groups and seniors on fishing expeditions, providing them with enriching experiences in the great outdoors. Additionally, he aims to sponsor trips for deserving individuals, offering them the opportunity to explore fishing destinations beyond their wildest dreams.

“My goal is to expand large enough to take youth groups and senior groups and to bridge the gap between troubled teens and the great outdoors. I would love to sponsor a few kids to Canada or Mexico to broaden their horizons as it relates to the outdoors.”

For more information and to book a trip, visit  toptfishing.com .

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EVERYBODY NEEDS SOME HEMBREE IN THIS LIFE

Meet Kansas City’s favorite indie rock x alternative band, releasing their third album and giving the local KC music ‘Culture’ iconic performances.

ARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER

photo by Jonny Marlow

When your love for all things Kansas City merges with rocking out to five natives with a gift for singing and songwriting, you’ve got melody magic. In case you haven’t met, let me introduce you to Hembree, a local band made up of five members with the majority now residing in Los Angeles, thanks to a thriving music career that got its start in 2015.

Hembree might be a humble band formed by friends from the middle of the map, but the guys quickly were thrust into the airwaves and onto the road, traveling far and wide into international waters thanks to a handful of early hits.

by Jono Bowles

Hembree consists of Isaac Flynn and Eric Davis who originally hail from Lawrence, brothers Alex and Austin Ward from Fort Scott, and Garrett Childers from Kansas City.

Their first single titled Holy Water made waves in 2016 when it was featured in a Super Bowl LII ad. In 2018, they participated in SXSW (South by Southwest) which led to signing to their first Nashville music label.

It was soon after that the band realized the music industry’s close attention to them and the path to soon materializing into a “real touring band.”

Simultaneously, two band members decided to leave

to focus on their personal lives, and thanks in part to social connections, they picked up brothers Alex and Austin Ward whom they had known for years, both jumping at the invitation to join on drums and guitar. With the band rounded out again, they locked their first booking agent and were well on their way.

Their first studio album titled House on Fire was released in 2019, featuring the single "Culture" and going “viral” via SoundCloud and on the Netflix show 13 Reasons Why. “It’s an alternative rock album, but we fused melodic indie music with electronic elements. It has a lot of youthful energy, and it also opened a lot of doors for us.” It also landed on SiriusXM and them on the Alt Nation tour, which naturally opened up even more doors.

The energy and excitement from House on Fire led them to begin creating the next album right away. But, a little thing called the pandemic hit and changed the trajectory of both their inspiration and their timeline. “It turned out different than what we originally intended, resulting  in more of a longform, experimental album.”

There were many things the pandemic influenced on it including Issac’s deep dive into the band Talking Heads and watching their concert film Stop Making Sense. Titled "It’s a Dream!," the 2022 album “became a bizarre art project of sending ideas to one another over Dropbox and having seemingly endless time working alone.” Once they were finally able to get the band back together, they were determined to push themselves harder than ever, resulting in great artistic growth artistically.

photo by Jonny Marlow

Photo

“We never take any one show for granted, and always go out of our way to make it a celebration, especially when back for hometown shows.”

Their third album is titled Better Days and will be played in totality at their next local performance at the Crossroads Hotel rooftop bar, Percheron on August 14th and 15th. The band has historically sold out their shows here, thanks in part to Percheron’s one-of-a-kind panorama. This time around they decided to add a second night playing different sets with different opening acts on each night.

“It’s become our favorite show of the year; the hotel team is amazing and you can’t beat the views. And, Kansas City is a special spot. Everyone has embraced us, and the fact that the shows still sell out and people continue to be fired up about new music makes us so appreciative,” says Alex.

With new music ready to land into the ears and eyes of the world, the guys are also ready to level up and fill up even larger venues, like The Midland Theatre. “Our live shows are all about having a really good time and throwing a party. We never take any one show for granted, and always go out of our way to make it a celebration, especially when back for hometown shows.”  They say they pull out all the stops for their fellow Kansas Citians and lean into making their shows an experience where you can forget about the wild world we are living in and turn your attention to a carefree and exuberant place.

Keep up with Hembree’s ongoing announcements, new releases, and more at hembreemusic.com and @hembreemusic on Instagram.

Photo by Jono Bowles

SIP, SAVOR, AND SUPPORT WITH STEMS:

A GARDEN SOIRÉE

ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL

“ATTENDEES CAN INDULGE IN DELICIOUS DRINKS, FLAVORFUL LOCAL FOODS, AND A VARIETY OF FESTIVITIES—ALL IN THE BREATHTAKING SETTING OF THE OVERLAND PARK ARBORETUM & BOTANICAL GARDENS.”

Mark your calendars for the event of the summer! The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park is gearing up for Stems, an evening of fun, food, and fundraising on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

While it is certainly a party you won’t want to miss, it is so much more. “This fundraiser supports our Friends groups who work throughout the year to host the community-loved events that make expansions at our city’s cultural amenities possible,” said Brit Wayes, Community

Engagement Manager, The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. This year, some favorite local spots will benefit from the proceeds. “In partnership with the City of Overland Park, we will be making capital improvements at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and work to create an inclusive experience at the Arboretum called Nature Encounter for All,” Brit said.

Dating back to 2008, Stems was created to add a signature event to the area and offer a fun way for individuals and businesses to support the foundation’s work.

The name of the event reflects what guests can expect from the evening. In fact, each letter of Stems stands for a key element of the event -– Sip, Taste, Enjoy, Meet, and Support. “Stems offers an inclusive experience where all activities are covered by the ticket price, creating an epic night out with friends or a special date night—all while supporting a meaningful cause,” Brit said. She continued, “Attendees can indulge in delicious drinks, flavorful local foods, and a variety of festivities—all in the breathtaking setting of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.”

So, come dressed to impress in your favorite patio party attire – florals, bright colors, and comfortable shoes for exploring the gardens! Beyond the local food and drinks, guests can enjoy entertainment like balloon creations, caricature drawings, and tarot card readings. And for the music lovers, there will be live performances by Green Shoebox Band, Jake Reese & Ireland, and Taylor & Tye. Sounds like the perfect summer outing – hope to see you there!

To learn more or purchase your ticket, visit www.artsandrec-op.org/the-arts-recreationfoundation-of-overland-park/stems/

YEARS

KANSAS CITY

BROOKSIDE (816) 298-6992

LEE'S SUMMIT (816) 434-5103

LENEXA (913) 735-3778

OVERLAND PARK (913) 766-1638

PARKVILLE (816) 621-3333

PRAIRIE VILLAGE (913) 232-7237

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

Get fit for equipment.

01.

If you are buying clubs off the rack, you aren’t giving yourself the best chance for success. Golf technology is evolving every year, and although you don’t need to buy a new driver each year, if you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

Get good golf instruction, REGULARLY.

02.

We’ve all heard someone say, “I should get a lesson sometime.” To be effective, you need regular lessons from a PGA certified pro, not just one lesson. Getting quality instruction from the same instructor can turn slices into draws and give you the confidence to play with anyone on any course. Years ago, golf instructors started instruction with chipping and putting and then graduated to the driver. Now, instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first. My friend regularly outdrives me by 50 yards, but my ball is in the hole first most of the time because of my training and practice on the short game.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

03.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads: Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz

Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs

Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

Practice your short game every day.

04.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

Instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first.

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MUSICIANS IN TRAINING

Local guitarist opens up online music school

ARTICLE BY D. LEON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

A local guitarist is shaping the next generation of guitarists and bass players while cultivating a thriving community of musicians-in-training. Meet Brett Blakemore, the proud owner of  Summit Guitar School who is gaining notoriety for helping aspiring musicians get unstuck for good.

“You may not get to the advanced level, but I can guarantee you with a little bit of effort, I can teach anyone to play something.”

“You may not get to the advanced level, but I can guarantee you with a little bit of effort, I can teach anyone to play something,” explained Blakemore.

The guitar pro’s passion started after finding his mother’s old guitar at the age of twelve. After learning how to play his first grunge rock song, thanks to a neighborhood friend, it was love at first strum. His lifelong passion led him to open Summit Guitar School; a school designed to help guitar players fine-tune their skills. Blakemore leads a variety of courses at all levels, bringing more than 20 years of experience working as a performer and instructor.

He is known in the music community for designing courses that ensure musical growth. He says many musicians get stuck in a rut after reaching an intermediate level in guitar playing, and his school helps fill that need. If you're willing to be patient,

Blakemore’s school has a structured pathway to help you reach your musical potential.

“I’m trying to help intermediates break through to the next level. There’s a plateau that guitar players get to once they hit this gray area, and it’s where they just feel stuck,” said Blakemore. "I know how it feels to get stuck at that level, and you just need someone to open your eyes to something new and to different possibilities on the guitar.”

Blakemore currently offers solo and group lessons both in-person and online. His students come from all over the world and have taken advantage of his expertise, no matter their age or playing level. Blakemore estimates he has taught at least 20,000 music lessons throughout his career and notes his online group lessons have drawn students from Dubai, Ireland and all throughout the U.S.; evolving into a supportive community for all musicians.

“I would say I have hundreds of people that are part of my online community, and I go live with them, have online courses and can answer questions on a topic I am teaching,” said Blakemore. “I like the community aspect and think other people enjoy it, too. They participate because they also get to know people in other states and other countries online.”

As demand for his school continues to grow, the classroom isn’t the only place where you can find Blakemore jamming out. Over the next few months, people from all throughout Kansas City can listen to him play a wide-range of genres from Reggae, Classic Rock and even Blues as a solo performer and member of some of KC’s best bands. His reputation has also garnered a strong social media presence, where he is able to spread his love for rocking out.

“I have an absolute love and passion for guitar and teaching guitar,” said Blakemore, “I’m constantly encouraging students to find jam sessions in their towns and communities and find people to play with."

For more information visit summitguitarschool. com/local-lessons

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