Johnson County, KS June 2025

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Mens Issue

There are certain people whose impact is so deeply woven into the fabric of our lives that we don’t always see it until we step back and look at the full picture. Fathers are often that way—quietly steady, always present, shaping our world not with grand gestures, but with everyday moments that leave lasting marks on us.

Whether it’s a father by birth, by choice, or by love, the presence of a strong, compassionate man can shape a child’s sense of security, self-worth, and possibility. It’s in the way he cheers from the sidelines or coaches the team, the way he teaches us to ride a bike or fix what’s broken, and the way he stands beside us during life’s hardest seasons. Often, it’s in what he doesn’t say—the quiet nod of approval, reassurance and protection.

In this issue, we tell stories of fathers who’ve built legacy businesses, traditions, and families with intention..There’s something deeply moving about watching a legacy take root—about seeing a father’s dream not only realized, but carried forward by the next generation. This issue is a tribute to the men who lead with love, build with intention, and plant seeds for tomorrow. May it inspire all of us to reflect on what we’re building—and who we’re building it for.

And we don’t forget those for whom Father’s Day brings mixed emotions— those missing a father, those becoming one for the first time, those healing from wounds or rebuilding connections. Fatherhood is never one-size-fits-all, but its impact—when rooted in love—is always profound.

To the fathers, father figures, mentors, and men who lead with integrity and care: thank you. Your presence matters more than you know.

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Lauren Powers, Judy Goppert

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Nicolette Martin

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

city scene

1—7: On Friday, May 2nd, the Kansas City American Heart Association hosted its highly anticipated annual Go Red for Women Luncheon, bringing the community together to support the fight against heart disease—the leading cause of death in women. This year’s event was led by Go Red for Women Chair Sarah Osborne, who passionately championed the cause of women’s heart health. Thanks to the generous support of attendees and sponsors, the luncheon raised over $900,000, which will directly fund lifesaving research, critical resources, and educational awareness through the American Heart Association. Photography by Don Ipock

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Stems: A Garden Soiree

This year’s Stems promises an unforgettable evening of fine wine, incredible cuisine, live music, and immersive entertainment set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical GardensStems at 8909 West 179th Street in Overland Park on June 28th, 2025.  For more information and to purchase tickets, visit  stemssoiree.org

Dr. Allison Manz

A FATHER’S Legacy

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

There is perhaps no prouder moment than when a parent’s children decide to work in the same business their parents or grandparents founded. The song “May the circle be unbroken” is quite fitting for these nine families who are carrying on the dreams of generations who came before them. Their pride is evident in the caring customer service and services or products they offer. Each has a truly unique, inspiring legacy.

ANDY Rieger

Carrying the Torch: Andy Rieger and the Revival of a Family Legacy

Andy Rieger always knew his last name meant something special. As the final male in the Rieger family line, he grew up with stories of a long-forgotten family business — J. Rieger & Co., a once-thriving distillery that closed its doors in 1919 when Prohibition swept the nation.

In 2010, while working in finance in Dallas, Andy's life changed in an instant. His father, Tom, had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Even in the face of heartbreak, Tom urged Andy to stay the course, not to rush home unless he had a reason — a reason only he would know. Just nine weeks later, Tom passed away, leaving Andy with one final wish: visit the new Rieger restaurant opening in Kansas City, in the old Rieger Hotel, and represent the family.

Andy honored that wish. At the restaurant, he met bartender Ryan Maybee, and that conversation lit a spark. What if J. Rieger & Co. could live again?

Together, they dreamt big — and remarkably, enlisted the former Master Distillers of Maker’s Mark and Tanqueray to help. The idea quickly turned into a mission: restore a piece of Kansas City history and honor a family legacy. With encouragement from his then-girlfriend (now wife), Andy realized his reason to come home had arrived.

In 2014, the couple returned to Kansas City and began rebuilding the iconic distillery. Today, they have two young sons, poised to carry on the Rieger name, while J. Rieger & Co. continues to grow, reaching shelves in 26 states and counting.

DOUGLAS M. HUSTON & Douglas R. Huston

Like father, like son. Douglas M. Huston and his son, Douglas R. Huston, are the family duo behind Huston Contracting.

“This company is all I’ve ever known,” said the younger Huston. “Our original shop sat right next to our small house in the country, and I’ve been tagging along to job sites for as long as I can remember. Even my childhood essays about the future were all about the company. To say I’m proud of what my dad has built doesn’t quite cover it. Sure, there are challenges working as a father-son team, but I truly can’t picture myself doing anything else.”

His father never assumed his son would join the business.

“In fact, he wasn’t planning to,” said the senior Huston. “He had accepted a finance job in Omaha after college. But just four days before graduation, I called and asked if he’d consider coming home to work with me. It was May 2009, during the Great Recession. I told him the pay might be lean at first, but I believed we had

a chance to build something meaningful.” Sixteen years later, that belief has paid off. “By God’s grace, we’ve surpassed every expectation. We’re stronger than ever. Right now counts forever.”

When asked if he hopes to pass the business on again, the younger Huston smiled. “Our 10-year-old son, Tucker, already talks about it. He’s our only son, like I was, and right now, he says he wants to work with me someday. I’ll encourage him, and his 7-year-old sister, to follow their passions—whatever path God puts before them. If it leads to the company, that’s wonderful. If not, they’ll have my full support.”

Grateful for their journey, both father and son are quick to share credit.

“We’re blessed with a team that represents our name with pride. They’re family to us, and we never take that for granted. God has provided more than we could have imagined. Like the sustain pedal on a piano, He holds everything together,” they said.

“We’re blessed with a team that represents our name with pride. They’re family to us, and we never take that for granted.”

GRAHAM MORSCH AND Dr. Gary Morsch

DOCS WHO CARE

This caring father/son team, Dr. Gary Morsch and Graham Morsch, works to bring healthcare to many. The younger Morsch joined Docs Who Care in 2015 as accounting manager then COO. He has been CEO since January 2020.

“I have BS in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration. Prior to DWC I worked in the operations accounting department for an oil and gas company in Oklahoma City,” he noted. “My job duties as CEO include leading our administrative staff of 28, building relationships with our providers and hospitals, and solving problems.”

DWC began out of necessity when a rural hospital in central Kansas lost two of its three physicians at once and knew it would be impossible for one physician to cover the hospital 24/7 for many months. The hospital called Gary, and he drove out and worked a seven-day shift. He recruited three physicians to cover each of the other three weeks a month, and DWC was born.

“Other hospitals heard about us and needed the same kind of help,” Gary said. “We now work in over 100 hospitals each year in seven different states and just celebrated our 30th anniversary. In the past decade in Kansas alone, we’ve worked in 79 different rural hospitals with 249 physicians and advanced practice providers.”

Although Gary is partially retired, he still gives vision and ideas for the future. Two of his three daughters are in healthcare. Son Graham is the only one at DWC.

“Because of our heart and mission, we make decisions that don’t make sense to most businesses, like allowing a DWC provider to become an employee of the hospital without a buyout fee as long as the provider moves to the community and puts down roots,” Graham explained. “We know the best model for our rural hospitals is to have employed providers that live and work in their community. We treat our providers like family and have many that work for DWC for their career. Three physicians have been with us over 20 years.”

KYLIE OBERWEATHER AND Forrest Swyden

This father-daughter duo has each found purpose and passion in their roles as Chick-fil-A Owner/Operators. Forrest Swyden was among the early group of franchise owners, and his daughter, Kylie Oberweather, has followed in his footsteps, now six years into her own journey. Their shared story is one of connection, growth, and legacy.

Kylie shared that Chick-fil-A was founded in Hapeville, Georgia, in 1946, with a focus on building strong teams and serving food people love. In Kansas City, the brand has had a presence for 18 years.

“I own the Chick-fil-A at 135th and 69 Highway in Overland Park, and my dad owns two locations—one at Ward Parkway and another in Mission, Kansas,” she said. “I actually began my career in mental health as a Marriage and Family Therapist. When my dad became an Owner/ Operator while I was in college, I worked with him briefly before pursuing graduate school. But over time, I felt unfulfilled and started to reflect on purpose. That led me back to Chickfil-A. The experience helped me grow as a leader and deepened my love for the community. I now feel honored to lead a team focused on hospitality and excellence.”

Kylie believes their locations make a meaningful difference and takes pride in watching her parents help grow the brand locally over nearly two decades.

“It taught me the value of consistency and the impact of service,” she said. “When my dad started, I never thought I’d follow the same path. But returning to Chick-fil-A years later, I realized how much I wanted this. My dad allowed me to learn the business firsthand, and I saw the dedication it takes to build something lasting.”

“Today, he’s one of my biggest supporters, and it’s a gift to share this journey with him,” she added with a smile. “Being a young mom and a business owner brings its own challenges.”

Her kids, now five and three, love visiting her at work—and she thinks it would be a joy if they chose to be part of the business one day.

CHICK-FIL-A

JAMES GALLET AND Mallory Gallet

ENVIROTECH HEATING & COOLING

James Gallet has been with Envirotech since 1995. He and his wife, Terri, took over the business in 2001 at just 26 years old. Since then, he has worn just about every hat, technician, installer, salesman, dispatcher, and more.

“Today, I focus on leadership, mentoring our younger technicians, and helping the company grow while staying true to our values,” he continued. “My journey into HVAC began with a simple conversation in a garage. I was a high school senior with dreams of going into construction after high school. I was sitting with my future father-in-law in their garage one night and he asked me what my plans were after high school, he then asked if I’d ever considered heating and cooling. That question changed the course of my life and led me to a career I love.”

Envirotech has always been a family affair. They took over the business the same year their first child, Mallory, was born. As they grew their family, they grew the company, often learning lessons in both at the same time.

“There were late nights, financial challenges, and lots of hands-on work, but our faith, strong partnership, and relentless work ethic kept us moving forward. Today, our team feels like an extension of our family,” he explained.

Their daughter Mallory Gallet now manages the marketing side of the company, from creating and posting on social media to designing and consulting on their website.

“I get to showcase our company in creative and fun ways every day. I like to say I have the most fun job at Envirotech. I get to come to work and create!” she noted. “Envirotech has always been a part of my life. My parents purchased the company when I was just 20 days old, so I’ve truly grown up in it. Working here today is not only a privilege, but also a way to contribute to the legacy my parents have built from the ground up.”

JEFF Covitz

As a third-generation tailor, Jeff Covitz continues the traditions of his father and grandfather. He owns and operates the men’s clothing shop Houndstooth. Originally from the Overland Park/ Leawood area, he attended film school at KU, and took over his father’s shop in 2011, then opened Houndstooth a couple years later in 2014.

“Our inspiration comes from our midwestern values, daily family lives, and a steady fascination with clothing and style,” he noted. “I want us to be the best shop, with the best service at the best value. We offer Ready to Wear and Custom suiting, accessories and casual clothing in a boutique atmosphere.”

His grandfather owned Leo’s Tailor Shop at 63rd and Oak in Brookside from 1952-1999. His father’s shop was Rick’s Tailoring and Menswear, located in Prairie Village and Overland Park from 1978-2014.

“Houndstooth is different, but definitely an extension of what they did, quality suiting and menswear, with quality tailoring performed in house,” he continued. “Each of us probably put our own spin on how things are done, but the basics of the businesses are quite similar.”

He believes customers are glad his family continues to thrive in the local market. And he likes hearing how well-liked his father was, adding, “Not a week goes by that a new client puts together the connection and reminisces about purchasing clothing with my father. This connection benefits the client as it establishes trust between us.”

As a child, he was always around the shop though, holding it down while his father ran errands.

He explained, “We never really talked about business succession or the like. Had he not fallen ill, my guess is he would’ve helped me open my own shop downtown. I do think he’d be very proud of me and my team and what we have done.”

He has two sons that love the idea of running their shops and being a part of the business with him.

“We’ll see what the future holds. I’m not holding either of them to it, but I would be more than pleased if that’s the way things work out,” he mused.

At Envirotech Heating and Cooling, we’re proud to be local, familyowned, and rooted in community. From community events to keeping your home safe and comfortable— we're here for you.

As temps rise, don’t forget: regular HVAC maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, extends its lifespan, and helps avoid surprise breakdowns. Our expert team is ready to help you stay cool all summer long.

ADVENTURE AWAITS

THE KANSAS CITY CLIMBING COMMUNITY

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kansas City might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of rock climbing, but its climbing community is thriving and growing stronger every year. Thanks to the Kansas City Climbing Community, locals and visitors alike can find their way onto the wall, whether it’s inside one of the area’s many gyms or outside at nearby crags.

“Kansas City Climbing Community recently celebrated its 40th anniversary, so it is an honor to continue its legacy of helping climbers connect and learn new skills or visit new environments,” says Emma F., known as “m,” the current President of KCCC. “KCCC’s original goal was to both keep outdoor climbs safely bolted and to organize climbing trips. We strive to embody that mission, plus open access to a sport that can be very daunting and at times inaccessible to some audiences. We hope to co-create a culture that welcomes and empowers people of different skill levels, body types, ages, and genders to build skills and trust.”

The KCCC story began in the winter of 1983 when local climbers Bob Allison and friends came together to build a community around their love of climbing. Today, KCCC hosts monthly meetups, outdoor trips, and educational clinics, all while maintaining and advocating for local crags and trails.

“I started climbing about four years ago and immediately fell in love with its sense of playfulness and artistry. I love making shapes on the wall and connecting with my body in a gracious way that is constantly evolving. Climbing is so fun physically but is also a huge mind game—I climb because it’s fun, but I return because it helps me practice physical and emotional skills that help me grow into a better person, such as communication, self-regulation as I move through fear, trust in those around me, and patience.

“I started volunteering with KCCC three years ago, posting on social media and co-hosting meetups, and my projects have grown to include accessibility initiatives. I want all people to be able to try the sport that brings our little community so much joy and gratitude.”

“I started climbing about four years ago and immediately fell in love with its sense of playfulness and artistry.”

Local climbing gyms like RoKC, Sequence, and IBEX offer year-round opportunities to climb, but KCCC makes it easy to step beyond the walls as well.

“KCCC hosts at least one meetup each month, rotating between gyms, local crags, and off the wall activities such as coffee hang outs or clean ups. Some are themed, but all people are welcome. We additionally host at least two trips a year in spring and fall to crags two to five hours away from KC. ”

These trips bring together climbers wanting to venture outside of the Kansas City climbing scene. In April, they gathered 40 new climbers with over 100 returning climbers for a trip to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Arkansas.

“These trips are for all skill levels, and are really wonderful times to try climbing outside for the first time, try new climbing spots, or simply connect with your community in a different setting. Additionally, KCCC replaces bolts in crags that require maintenance.”

Looking ahead, the next upcoming event is the KCCC’s Family Trip, happening June 12th-15th at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch.

“We ask that parents be responsible for their children’s belays, but our trips welcome all levels and ages. More information will be posted on our newsletter, and Facebook and Instagram pages.”

The $20 a year membership helps fund everything from new bolts to trip dinners. Members also get perks like discounts at local climbing gyms and gear shops.

“KCCC is completely volunteer run and relies on donations, so if anyone feels called to contribute to these projects, they can donate at  web.climbkccc.com/donations. If anyone would like to host a climbing event or meetup, we would love to offer our support. Our goal is to expand community, helping each person who climbs to know someone else’s name and thus feel empowered to welcome others into the fold. If you have an idea, we’d love to hear it.”

For more information, visit web.climbkccc.com

“These trips are for all skill levels, and are really wonderful times to try climbing outside for the first time, try new climbing spots, or simply connect with your community in a different setting.”

INSIDE THE CROWN

Writer, podcaster, and lifelong fan David Lesky shares the highs, heartbreaks, and magic of the game that raised him.

For David Lesky, baseball isn’t just a sport — it’s the soundtrack of his life. Raised in a home where Royals games were always on the TV or radio, Lesky was destined to fall in love with the game. One moment sealed it: July 4, 1989, when a four-year-old Lesky watched Bo Jackson launch two towering home runs. From that day forward, he was hooked.

Little did that four-year-old boy know he would go on to become one of the city’s most respected voices in Royals coverage. His Substack newsletter, Inside the Crown , is a labor of love that began during a career transition. “I started writing about the Royals after I was laid off. I’m a writer by trade, and I wanted to keep my skills sharp,” he explains. “Thankfully, I’d built a bit of an audience, so when I launched Inside the Crown, it had built-in readers.”

Now in its fifth season, the newsletter is known for its honest, insightful analysis, fueled by Lesky’s obsessive attention to detail and insatiable curiosity. “I’ve watched thousands of games and been to at least 1,000 in person,” he says. “I try to use that perspective and ask the questions others might miss.” Whether he’s breaking down bullpen decisions or noticing how groundskeepers prep the infield to hint at a bunting strategy, Lesky brings a unique voice to the conversation. “I really just try to take that curiosity and apply it to what I write. What would I want to know about what I just saw? And I hope that others find it as interesting as I do,” he says.

ONE MAN’S DEVOTION TO ROYALS BASEBALL

In 2024, he added another platform to his storytelling arsenal with Kauffman Corner, a Royals-centric podcast he co-hosts with sports radio vet Soren Petro and former Royals outfielder Les Norman. “It had been in the works for a while, but this season we finally launched it,” he says. “It’s been a blast to have the opportunity to talk about the game I love with two people who have as much passion as I, because that passion is hard to find.” The weekly episodes dive into player performance, team culture, and the nuances only hardcore Royals fans can appreciate, delivered with a mix of insight and banter that keeps listeners tuning in.

But baseball isn’t just a professional pursuit — it’s personal. As a father, Lesky’s love for the game has evolved into something more emotional with his daughter, Nora. “I find myself looking for ways to pass that love on rather than just make it known how much I love the game,” he shares. “She’s still little, but when she yells ‘Go Royals!’ or claps during big plays, it fills my heart with more joy than I ever expected.” If he could pass on one Royals memory to her? “Playoff baseball,” he says. “It’s the most magical thing in the world. When you get to the playoffs, everything matters more. Each game is so vital. Each inning is so vital. I want her to experience that feeling more often than I did growing up.”

Lesky’s dream is to one day write a book about the Royals — maybe a memorable season, an overlooked player, or a pivotal moment in franchise history. “One of the things I’ve loved about Inside the Crown is that I’ve sort of let the Royals tell me what to write about and I’m really enjoying that for now,” he says. “But I would love to someday write a book about the Royals. I don’t know if it will be a season that’s worth remembering, a player who captured attention, or something else, but that is one of my longterm baseball storytelling dreams.”

While most of David Lesky’s favorite baseball memories happened between the lines, one unforgettable moment took place off the field. After being credentialed to cover Game Three of the 2014 ALDS — the game that sealed the Royals' first postseason sweep — Lesky found himself inside a champagne-soaked clubhouse celebration. “Reporters were eventually let in, and as I sat back taking it all in, I was approached by the Royals' star Center Fielder, Lorenzo Cain, with a full bottle of champagne. He looked me right in the eyes and turned that open bottle upside down right over my head, fully drenching me,” he laughs. “Champagne smells awful when it dries, but I didn’t care one bit.” It was the kind of surreal, pinch-me moment only baseball can deliver — a reward for years of devotion turned into a front-row seat to history.

When it comes to the future of baseball, Lesky hopes more people embrace the game’s hidden magic. “There is so much going on, even when a pitcher is just holding the ball on the mound waiting to deliver the pitch. The second baseman might move a foot to his right. The center fielder might take three steps back,” he says. “As soon as you start to embrace the mental side of the game, it becomes very fast.”

FOLLOW DAVID LESKY’S WORK:

Inside the Crown newsletter: insidethecrown.substack.com –New posts throughout the week during the season.

Kauffman Corner podcast: Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. live on YouTube, or available anytime on all major podcast platforms.

DISCOVER THE HEART OF COMMUNITY

When you step into the Overland Park Farmers’ Market, you immediately feel it: the energy, the warmth, the heartbeat of a community waking up together. It's not just the vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, baked goods, and flowers, or the scent of roasted coffee and fresh herbs in the air.

PHOTOGRAPHY
at the Overland Park Farmer’s Market
“People look out for each other, celebrate milestones, and lift each other up during hard times,” Kristina explains.

It's the neighbors catching up, the hugs exchanged between vendors and customers, the children laughing. It isn’t just a market, it’s a second home to many.

“The magic of OPFM is in its heartbeat,” the market’s manager, Kristina Stanley, shares. “It’s where connection is tangible, where you feel the love in the air.” Vendors know customers by name, artisans proudly share their crafts, and shoppers don’t just come for the goods; they come for the people behind them. It's a joyful, rooted experience that feels as if the community itself is stitched into every conversation and transaction.

At the heart of OPFM is the belief that it's about connection, not just commerce. It's a place where loyalty and trust matter more than price tags. “People look out for each other, celebrate milestones, and lift each other up during hard times," Kristina explains. “It’s a place where everyone belongs—whether you’re a longtime vendor or a teenager grabbing a smoothie and flowers for Instagram.”

The relationships extend beyond customer and vendor, too. Collaboration between vendors is not just encouraged, it’s a tradition. From teaming up on product pairings to covering each other’s booths

during emergencies, vendors at OPFM lift each other up. Memorable partnerships like that of Hemme Brothers Creamery and Zen Donkey Farm show how vendors coexist and thrive by working together. It’s a living example of the OPFM philosophy: success is measured by connection as much as by sales.

Moments like when Five Mile Farms' family members intentionally sat with new vendors during a social event—bridging language barriers and building community—show that OPFM’s culture of inclusion doesn’t happen by accident. "Culture is what we allow, create, and refuse to allow," Kristina says. "It’s about daily, intentional actions rooted in respect, positivity, and collaboration."

This intentionality is what has carried OPFM through major changes. In just the past six years, the market has adapted to five layouts across three locations. Yet the community has stayed strong— and even grown. Shoppers continue to show up, week after week, not because of convenience, but because of trust. They know that wherever the market goes, the spirit of OPFM goes with it: quality products, friendly faces, and an experience rooted in authenticity.

Generations of families have made OPFM part of their traditions. “Seeing grandparents bring their grandchildren to the same vendors they visited years ago shows that we’re part of people’s lives in a really meaningful way,” Kristina says. "It's a living legacy—a reminder that even as the world changes, the market remains a place of grounding, celebration, and trust."

“It’s a living legacy—a reminder that even as the world changes, the market remains a place of grounding, celebration, and trust.”

What makes OPFM stand apart from other markets in the area is its deep commitment to its core values. Vendors are selected not just for the quality of their goods, but for their passion, professionalism, and alignment with the market's philosophy. Every product is curated with care, sustainability and stewardship are woven into every decision, and inclusivity is a daily practice, not just a slogan.

Support from the City of Overland Park plays a vital role as well. With 14 out of 15 city departments involved in supporting the market’s success—and major projects like the $34 million Clock Tower Landing Improvement Project underway—OPFM is poised to continue flourishing as a centerpiece of community life.

Looking ahead, the goal is not just growth for growth’s sake, but intentional evolution. The manager envisions a future where OPFM continues strengthening community ties, fostering education about local food, supporting new businesses, and embracing innovation without losing the authenticity that has made it a community cornerstone for generations.

“Culture doesn’t happen by accident," they emphasize again. "It happens because we show up for each other—vendors, staff, customers— and build something better together."

At OPFM, the heartbeat of the community doesn’t just beat on Saturday mornings. It beats in every handshake, every shared recipe, every act of encouragement—and it promises to keep beating, stronger and louder, for generations to come.

SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY

DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA

Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.” Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life.

So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime.

Paws Up Montana sprawls the distance of 37,000 private acres of historic estateland, which houses a working ranch and 10 miles of Blackfoot river. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.

CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHAT TO DO

To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear—driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape—and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice. Skyline Aerial Adventure Park is another notable warm-weather activity, taking guests on two high-ropes courses.

WHERE TO STAY

Luxury Homes are categorized into preference-based properties that boast the thrill of wilderness living. For larger families and multigenerational groups, consider the Wilderness Estates. At 3,250-squarefeet, these estates sleep up to eight guests and feature three large suites with private baths. The Big Timber Homes are available in one-to-three bedroom options and come ornamented with fire places and private decks. The Meadow Homes are 1,100-square-foot single-story homes that sleep up to four guests, situated amid a pastoral and treed setting. For an extra nod of perfection, choose one of the luxury homes that comes equipped with a private tent—ideal for anyone traveling with children (or adults who beckon back their childhood!).

For a more primitive experience, Glamping Homes offer the right amount of canvas to create a close-to-nature experience. Available mid-May through mid-October, choose from river settings to creeksides, bluffs or cliffs. Each tent is adorned with something unique—a copper tub, a picturesque view of Lewis and Clark’s famous Lookout Rock and Western-chic furniture throughout. Zip down the windows to allow for the cool nightly breeze, yet enjoy the modern convenience of electricity. Each campsite has a dining pavilion. And don’t miss the s’mores boards around the communal fire pit, offered by your own s’moresologist—yes, you read that right, and yea, it’s a thing.

Lastly, but certainly not least, are the state-of-theart accommodations of the Green O hauses. This portion of the property is completely curated for those 21 years of age and older. It’s a resort within a resort, a hidden pearl in an oyster of experience. The Tree Haus is elevated 23 feet in the air and offers unparalleled forest views. The Green Haus includes a skylight above the bed for an unmatched view of pluck-emfrom-the-sky stars. The Round Haus has curved, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer 180-degree panoramic views. Both the Green and Round Hauses are dog friendly, too, so Fido can rest in the lap of luxury. The Light Haus is illuminated by skylights and unique glass design.

DRINK & DINE

Montana’s best kept secret? Our hideaway chefs, making waves from the Montana wilderness. Chef Brandon Cunningham, Executive Chef at the Green O, is a James Beard Award finalist whose creations at the Social Haus are highly curated through an 8-course tasting menu. Other highly trained and talented chefs like Chef Brett Edlund, Chef Ben Scott, Executive Pastry Chef Krystle Swenson, and Sunny Jin, the General Manager of Food and Beverage, are part of the intricate patchwork of the culinary experience at Pomp, Trough, Shed, Camp and the notable Chuck Wagon—a summertime treat where guests can ride a hay wagon along the banks of the Blackfoot River for an Old West-inspired chuck wagon dinner. The menu ranges from all-natural chicken and Tomahawk ribeye to fresh vegetables grilled over an open flame campfire.

HOW TO GET HERE

Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) Airport transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.

realty report

For more information and program updates, guests are encouraged to visit: https://www.horsefeathersocial.com/

Horsefeather Social Reopens For The Season

Located on the 7th floor of the Loews Kansas City Hotel, this city hotspot, returns with robust programming featuring Local by Loews partner, Sweat Forum, plus monthly First Friday events and more.

One of Kansas City’s most popular outdoor bars is reopening for the season. Horsefeather Social will be open every Wednesday – Sunday (weather permitting) from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., giving guests enough time to enjoy delicious drinks, mouth-watering bites and Instagram worthy views.

The space will bring back its  Thursday Taco Night featuring: Carne Asada, Blacken Rock Shrimp Tacos and Marinated Portabella Mushroom Tacos weekly along with live music every Thursday, Friday and Sunday evenings. Horsefeather Social will also participate in First Fridays with the following themed nights:

• May 2: Latin Night

• June 6: Grill Wing Night

• July 4: Boulevard Beer & Brats

• August 1: Shrimp Boil with Torn Label

• September 5: Grill Burger Night with Bourbon Heritage Month

The signature drink,  Horsefeather, will remain a must order for whiskey enthusiasts alike. Beyond having great flavor profiles, it also has great history. The 'Horsefeather' is a Midwest favorite developed in the early 1900s in Lawrence, Kansas and made fashionable in Kansas City, Missouri. The drink is an iteration of the classic Horse's Neck cocktail and is similar to a Moscow Mule. Horsefeather Social’s drink features whiskey, from J. Rieger, ginger beer, three dashes of Angostura bitters, and lemon juice. A selection of low and no ABV drinks will continue to be available as part of Loews Kansas City Hotel’s new  Free Spirited by Loews program. Must-order bar bites include  Whipped Goat Cheese  with lemon zest, honey, crispy prosciutto, pomegranate and gluten free lavash or the  Roasted Chicken Sliders with Havarti, spinach, and red pepper garlic aioli.

Beyond the culinary offerings, Horsefeather Social will become a fitness haven for locals and hotel guests alike on select Sundays in the Spring and Summer. In conjunction with the brand’s  Local by Loews program, Loews Kansas City Hotel has partnered with local fitness studio, Sweat Forum. Locals can register for the class directly through Sweat Forum’s page. All classes begin at 10 AM and are open to all fitness levels. Mix and mingle with local vendors and refreshments post-work out.

NO HASSLE BOATING

| UNLIMITED BOATING AT CLINTON AND PERRY LAKES |PREMIER BOAT CLUB AND SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

Hassle-free, full-service boating experience with a variety of vessels to choose from.

No need to own a boat to join. Members have access to wakeboard, tritoon, or fishing boats.

Club handles all cleaning, fueling, storage, insurance, and maintenance. Members can preschedule at either Clinton or Perry and enjoy focusing on the water!

Pricing starts with a one-time fee of $3,500 and $350/month.

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