The Explore Issue
you ’ ve always wanted it to be
Letter from the Editor
Summer always has a way of slowing things down and creating space for the moments that matter most, whether it is the late-night conversations on the patio, impromptu ice cream runs, afternoons on the lake, weekend road trips, or the simple joy of a family pizza and game night.
Two of my children are home from college, and my youngest is entering her final few years of high school, which is making me increasingly aware that these summers as we know them are numbered. For years, our family life revolved around school schedules, sports, and a full family calendar. Now, I can see the next chapter approaching. As parents, we’re always aware that time moves quickly, but there are certain seasons when you feel it a little more. I know there will come a day when summers won’t look quite like they do now. The kids will be building lives of their own, creating traditions and memories with families of their own.
So this summer, I’m trying to say “yes” a little more often to the last-minute plans, the late night food runs, lake days and impromptu game nights, even if I may not feel completely up for it at the moment. Time spent together doesn’t have to be elaborate to be memorable. In fact, some of my favorite family memories are the simplest ones. The moments when everyone was present, laughing, talking, and enjoying each other’s company.
As you flip through this month’s Explore issue, I hope you’ll find inspiration to make the most of summer, whether that means planning a getaway, discovering something new close to home, or simply spending a little extra time with the people you love.
The seasons of life move quickly. Here’s to making this one count.
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @LEAWOODCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Dara Witte | dara.witte@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Lauren Powers, Jamie Segall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Anna Petrow
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Sweet Summer
Summer Concert Series
SATURDAYS IN JULY & AUGUST ( 7PM - 9PM ) Free outdoor concerts featuring local bands.
July 11 - Smokin J ’ s
July 18 - Superstar Mafia
July 25 - KC Groove
August 8 - Stolen Winnebagos
August 15 - The Zeros
Live music for a mid - week date night ! Connect over a great line - up of pop / rock , country , and even reggae ! Wednesday Concerts
EVERY WEDNESDAY ( 6PM - 8PM )
Guitars & Games
EVERY FRIDAY ( 6PM - 8PM ) Free live acoustic music and lawn games.
Taste Of Leawood
SATURDAY , SEPTEMBER 12 ( 6PM - 9PM ) Join us for this exclusive evening , where culinary delights from the finest restaurants in the area will flow endlessly ! 21 + Event Visit atasteofleawood.com to get your tickets !
Enjoy complimentary valet for all Park Place visito rs located outside 801 Chophouse everyday 5PM - 12AM. Visit ParkPlaceLeawood.com for more details & our full event calendar.
BRINGING LUXURY SURFACES TO LIFE WITH DIMENSIONAL STONEWORKS
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
For homeowners investing in a dream kitchen, spa-like bath or custom gathering space, countertops are often the design feature that brings everything together. At Dimensional Stoneworks, creating exceptional surfaces starts with craftsmanship and a commitment to helping clients bring their vision to life.
“Dimensional Stoneworks is being built every day to be a leading-edge stone fabricator of high-end, complex home builds,” says Sandy Harper. “We constantly invest in the latest machinery, software and training to ensure we can deliver the best results possible.”
“Dimensional Stoneworks is being built every day to be a leading-edge stone fabricator of high-end, complex home builds,” says Sandy Harper.
Today, the company specializes in custom countertops, fireplaces, backsplashes, bathroom surfaces and other architectural stone features. Their work can be found in luxury homes throughout the Kansas City area, including a recently completed remodel in Leawood Country Manor that showcased the team’s ability to execute highly detailed and complex designs.
According to Harper, every project begins with understanding how the homeowner wants the space to look, feel and function.
“We focus on getting a complete understanding of the space, the customer’s
wants and desires, and every detail of every corner,” Harper says. “We look at how each design element interacts with our material to ensure expectations are met.”
That collaborative process often includes working alongside homeowners, builders, designers and architects. For custom homes and large-scale renovations, the team carefully evaluates every detail before work begins.
The company is especially known for tackling projects that require creative solutions and technical expertise.
“We never say something cannot be fabricated or installed,” Harper says.
“There is always a way. With our extensive stone and engineering background, we will make it happen.”
While custom fabrication is a key part of the company’s success, Dimensional Stoneworks also places a strong emphasis on helping clients navigate the selection process. Choosing countertops can feel overwhelming, particularly with the wide variety of natural stone options available today.
Janelle Hudgens of Dimensional Stoneworks says many homeowners begin the process without fully understanding the characteristics and maintenance requirements of different materials.
Others make decisions based on small samples instead of viewing the entire slab.
To help clients make confident decisions, the team provides guidance from start to finish. They meet with homeowners and designers, perform site visits and create 3D renderings that allow clients to visualize how stone selections will look within their space. Customers are encouraged to bring paint colors, cabinet samples and accessories into the showroom to compare finishes and materials.
“We do the legwork of finding the right materials and narrowing selections,” Hudgens says. “That helps homeowners focus on the look they want while understanding how the material will function in their home.”
Among today’s most requested materials are quartzite and marble. Both remain popular because of their natural beauty, distinctive movement and ability to create memorable focal points.
“Homeowners are looking for statement pieces that help their project stand out,” Hudgens says. “Natural stone provides character and variation that cannot be duplicated.”
The desire for personalized design continues to shape luxury homes. Large kitchen islands, entertaining spaces, dramatic backsplashes and custom fireplaces are increasingly becoming focal points throughout the home. Homeowners are also paying closer attention to finishing
details, including edge profiles, surface textures and unique stone selections.
Dimensional Stonework’s ability to deliver exceptional quality while helping homeowners create spaces they truly enjoy is an art that continues to bring one-of-a-kind craftsmanship into homes throughout Kansas City.
COUNTERTOP TRENDS & TIPS FOR 2026
Three Tips Before Selecting Countertops
• Understand the durability and maintenance requirements of your material.
• Choose a surface that supports your daily lifestyle and how you use the space.
• View the entire slab whenever possible to understand color variation, veining and movement.
Best Combination of Beauty and Durability: Quartzite continues to be a leading choice because it offers the look of natural stone with excellent durability.
Top Trends of Today’s Homeowners
• Marble with dramatic veining
• Warm color palettes
• Gold veining accents
• Leathered and honed finishes
• Statement fireplaces and backsplashes
• Thicker edge profiles, including mitered and laminated edges
• Customized details that create a unique look
THE LOCH LLOYD WAY OF LIFE
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For many people, choosing a place to live is about more than finding the right house. It's about finding the right lifestyle.
That idea is at the heart of life in the Village of Loch Lloyd, where residents enjoy a unique blend of luxury living, natural beauty, and an active, connected community. Located just south of Kansas City, Loch Lloyd offers the privacy and security of a gated community while creating opportunities for neighbors to build friendships, families to create lasting memories, and residents to enjoy an exceptional quality of life.
When residents enter the gates, there is often a noticeable shift. The pace of life changes, and the stress of the outside world tends to fall away. From manicured flower beds to the natural landscape that surrounds the community, Loch Lloyd feels like an oasis tucked away just far enough from the city to allow residents to truly relax and settle into the place they call home.
What makes Loch Lloyd particularly appealing is that it offers more than beautiful homes. While many luxury communities can point to impressive real estate, Loch Lloyd has built its reputation around a comprehensive lifestyle experience. The combination of scenic surroundings, recreational opportunities, community traditions, and a strong sense of belonging creates an environment that feels both peaceful and engaging.
There is also been a noticeable shift in who is choosing to live here. Loch Lloyd was once often thought of primarily as a place to retire, but that perception has changed. Today, incoming residents and club members include young professionals, growing families, and people at many different life stages who are drawn to the balance of privacy, recreation, and community connection.
One of the community's greatest strengths is its ability to balance privacy and connection. Residents can enjoy the tranquility of spacious homes, quiet streets, and natural surroundings while also having access to a vibrant calendar of activities and gathering spaces. The result is a community where people can be as involved as they choose while always feeling connected to the neighborhood around them.
That sense of connection shows up in daily life in simple but consistent ways. Residents tend to be active, social, and engaged with the people around them.
Because of that, amenities such as the golf course, swimming pool, clubhouse, and recreation facilities are used constantly, not just for recreation, but as natural gathering places where friends and families come together.
Leagues and group activities play a major role in that rhythm of life. Men’s and women’s golf, tennis, and pickleball leagues are consistently well attended, while newer traditions such as monthly mahjong nights have quickly become part of the social fabric of the community. Outside of the Club, residents of all ages also make regular use of the lake, nature trails, and dog park.
These amenities resonate because they create natural ways to connect. A round of golf, a walk around the lake, an afternoon at the pool, or a game night with neighbors all become opportunities to see familiar faces and build relationships over time. In many ways, that steady pattern of shared activity is what gives Loch Lloyd its strong sense of community.
For families, that environment can be especially meaningful. Parents appreciate the added sense of security and peace of mind, while children benefit
from quiet streets, shared outdoor spaces, and opportunities to build friendships through neighborhood gatherings and community events. The balance of privacy and connection has helped make Loch Lloyd an attractive choice for families looking for both a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere and a high quality of life.
Community programming also plays an important role in bringing residents together. Seasonal celebrations, holiday events, family activities, and resident-led initiatives create opportunities for neighbors to connect throughout the year. These traditions help foster a genuine sense of belonging and reinforce the feeling that Loch Lloyd is more than a collection of homes.
For residents who choose to become members of Loch Lloyd Country Club, the lifestyle experience expands even further.
The Club offers championship golf, a resort-style pool, fitness and wellness facilities and programs, tennis and pickleball courts, dining venues, and a robust calendar of social events and activities. Members can enjoy a casual family dinner, meet friends for cocktails after a round of golf, participate in a fitness class, or attend a themed social event without leaving the community.
Those experiences add a level of convenience, but they also create opportunities for connection. Everyday moments become opportunities to engage with neighbors, strengthen friendships, and participate in a lifestyle that feels active, social, and enriching.
The commitment to continually enhancing that experience is another characteristic that sets Loch Lloyd apart. The community and Club continue to invest in amenities and programming that reflect the interests and needs of residents.
One of the most significant projects currently underway is the transformational renovation of the Loch Lloyd Country Club clubhouse. The project will introduce enhanced dining venues, expanded gathering spaces, upgraded outdoor experiences, improved locker facilities, and operational enhancements designed to elevate the overall member experience.
At the same time, Loch Lloyd continues to evolve as a residential community. One of the most exciting recent additions is The Sechrest at Loch Lloyd, a thoughtfully planned neighborhood that reflects the continued demand for luxury living within the gates. By offering custom homesites at a more approachable entry point, The Sechrest is creating opportunities for young professionals and growing families to become part of one of the Kansas City area's most sought-after communities.
As resident interests continue to evolve, Loch Lloyd is also exploring new programs and amenities that support wellness, recreation, and social connection, ensuring the community continues to meet the expectations of current and future residents.
CONTINUED >
Ultimately, what makes Loch Lloyd special cannot be measured solely by amenities or real estate. The community has been built around relationships, experiences, and a shared commitment to quality of life. The combination of beautiful homes, outstanding amenities, natural surroundings, and an engaged resident community creates an environment that is increasingly rare to find.
Whether residents are raising a family, pursuing an active lifestyle, or simply looking for a place where neighbors genuinely know one another, Loch Lloyd offers a lifestyle that extends far beyond the front door. It is a place where community still matters, where connections are built naturally, and where everyday life feels intentional.
Homesites start in the mid $200s
The Next Evolution of Luxury Living in Kansas City
Nestled within the gated community of Loch Lloyd, one of Kansas City’s most exclusive enclaves, The Sechrest offers 44 premier homesites surrounded by green space, trails, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Residents enjoy 24-hour security, access to an active, welcoming community centered around Loch Lloyd Country Club, and a rare blend of privacy, comfort, and connection—just 25 minutes from downtown Kansas City.
Preserving More Than a ZIP Code
At Earl’s Coffee Company in Bucyrus, the Foote family blends exceptional coffee, local history, and community connection under one roof.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
In a world where small-town gathering places are becoming increasingly rare, Earl’s Coffee Company in Bucyrus stands as proof that preserving a community can be about much more than saving a building.
Located on the same corner that has served as the heart of Bucyrus for generations, Earl’s Coffee Company was born from a challenge that threatened the town’s identity. In 2024, the United States Postal Service informed residents that the Bucyrus Post Office would need to close, a move that would have absorbed the community’s ZIP code into neighboring Stilwell. For many residents, the news represented more than an administrative change. It meant losing a piece of what made Bucyrus uniquely Bucyrus.
For the Foote family, the answer was clear.
Rather than watch the community lose one of its most important gathering places, the family built a new facility that would allow the post office to continue serving residents while creating something new alongside it: a coffee shop designed to bring people together.
The effort carried special significance because it was not the first time the Foote family had stepped in to save the post office. In 1991, Greg Foote’s parents, Bob and Gail Foote, purchased the original 1921 post office building after it faced closure. More than three decades later, history repeated itself.
“Unlike many coffee shops that are built as businesses and later become gathering spaces, Earl’s was created with community at its core from the beginning.”
“There’s a newspaper article from 1991 with the headline ‘Bucyrus won’t lose post office,’” Foote recalls. “Saving it the second time wasn’t about nostalgia. It was about honoring what my parents started and recognizing that this community still needs a place to gather.”
That deep sense of family history is woven throughout Earl’s Coffee Company.
The business takes its name from Earl Foote, Greg’s grandfather, a farmer whose legacy stretches across four generations of the Foote family. Earl’s name was passed down through his son Robert Earl “Bob” Foote, then to Greg Earl Foote, and now to Greg’s son, Henry Earl Foote. The coffee shop serves as a tribute not only to one man, but to a family rooted in the land and community of southern Johnson County for generations.
Visitors quickly discover that family connections are everywhere inside the café. Historic photographs lining the walls showcase the Foote family’s agricultural heritage and the people who helped build their ranching operations over the years. Even the menu tells a story.
Items such as Curl’s Breakfast Sandwich, Gail’s Breakfast Sandwich, Dorothy’s Breakfast Burrito, Speedy’s Egg Bites, Tub’s Steak Burrito, and Earl’s Club are all named after family members or longtime Foote Cattle Company employees. The names often spark conversations among locals who recognize them and are eager to share memories.
While history provides the foundation, the food and coffee give visitors plenty of reasons to return.
The café prides itself on quality ingredients and scratch-made offerings. Signature coffee syrups are crafted in-house, while sauces such as chimichurri and red pepper jelly are prepared by the café’s chef. Earl’s partners with Post Coffee for its beans, creating a menu designed to be fresh, flavorful, and available all day.
Customer favorites have quickly emerged, including Tub’s Steak Burrito and Speedy’s Egg Bites, both featuring high-quality grilled sirloin. Coffee drinks made with the café’s house-made syrups have also become popular among regulars.
Yet what truly sets Earl’s apart is its purpose.
Unlike many coffee shops that are built as businesses and later become gathering spaces, Earl’s was created with community at its core from the beginning. The post office remains operational inside the building, allowing residents to pick up their mail, enjoy breakfast or lunch, and catch up with neighbors all in one stop. A dedicated Little Earl’s Menu ensures families feel just as welcome as longtime locals gathering over coffee.
The response has exceeded expectations. Community members have delivered handwritten thank-you notes, offered historical memorabilia for display, and embraced the café as a symbol of Bucyrus’s resilience.
For Foote, that support confirms the project’s true success. He hopes visitors remember more than the coffee, the food, or even the history. He hopes they remember how they felt.
“We want people to leave feeling a little more connected to this place and to each other than when they walked in,” he says.
At Earl’s Coffee Company, preserving a ZIP code ultimately became about preserving something much bigger: a sense of belonging.
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A WEEKEND ESCAPE
at The Elms Spa &
Resort
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Sometimes the best getaway is the one that doesn't require much planning. For Kansas City travelers, The Elms Hotel & Spa in Excelsior Springs is just a short drive away and accomplishes just that.
“More Kansas City residents are discovering the hotel as a quick escape that feels like a getaway without requiring extensive travel.”
Part of this historic hotel's appeal is that it has always been more than a place to stay. Over the decades, it has served as a gathering place for celebrations, milestones, relaxation, and connection. Families have returned generation after generation, creating traditions and memories. While the hotel and spa has evolved over the years, its purpose has remained the same. It offers a place where people can step away from daily routines, reconnect, relax and enjoy genuine hospitality.
The Elms has been part of Excelsior Springs for more than 130 years, and that history is one of the
things that makes this destination special. The balance between history and experience continues to attract a wide range of visitors. Wellness travel has brought a growing number of spa guests through the doors. Couples choose The Elms for romantic weekends and special celebrations. History enthusiasts are drawn to the property's rich past and legendary stories. At the same time, more Kansas City residents are discovering the hotel as a quick escape that feels like a getaway without requiring extensive travel.
For many guests, the spa is where that experience begins.
The Grotto has become one of the hotel's signature attractions and remains unlike anything else in the Midwest. Rather than focusing solely on treatments, the spa creates an immersive wellness experience that encourages guests to slow down and disconnect from the outside world. Moving through steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs, cold plunges, and the signature Roman bath becomes less about checking off amenities and more about creating space to pause.
Massages remain among the most popular services, particularly the signature Elms Massage, while facials and couples experiences continue to be in demand. However, many guests say the Grotto itself becomes the highlight of their visit, creating the kind of experience that brings them back again and again.
That opportunity to slow down may be one of the most valuable luxuries The Elms offers. In a world that promotes constant activity, the property gives guests permission to rest. Whether visitors spend a few hours in the spa or an entire weekend on property, the goal is simple: to leave feeling renewed and more than when they arrived. The philosophy of honoring tradition while embracing the present can be found throughout the property. Thoughtful renovations, updated guest experiences, wellness offerings, and dining programs allow The Elms to meet modern expectations without sacrificing the character that has made it a destination for generations.
That is especially evident at Three Owls, the hotel's restaurant. The dining experience is warm and approachable and reflects both the spirit of the Midwest and the history of the property itself. The menu focuses on regional ingredients and flavors. Steaks, seasonal features, and chefdriven specialties remain guest favorites, but some of the most interesting dishes are often the ones inspired by what's growing just outside the restaurant's doors. Throughout the season, herbs, fruits, and other ingredients harvested from The Elms gardens make their way into both dishes and handcrafted cocktails. It's a detail that creates a meaningful connection between guests, the culinary team, and the grounds that have been part of the property for generations.
The Elms has also become a sought-after destination for weddings, offering a combination of history, accommodations, wellness experiences, and natural beauty that few venues can match. Couples
“Despite being only a short drive from Kansas City, The Elms creates a sense of separation from everyday demands.”
can host everything from rehearsal dinners and spa days to ceremonies and receptions in one location, creating an experience that feels seamless for both guests and families.
Corporate groups are finding value in that same sense of escape. Organizations increasingly seek destinations that encourage creativity, collaboration, and meaningful connection outside traditional conference settings. While companies may initially come for meeting space and accommodations, they often discover something more. Despite being only a short drive from Kansas City, The Elms creates a sense of separation from everyday demands. The result feels less like a typical business trip and more like a resort experience.
Looking ahead, the property's focus remains on creating experiences that complement its history while giving guests new reasons to visit. Expanded wellness programming, culinary events, seasonal activities, outdoor experiences, and community partnerships are all part of that vision.
More than a century after opening its doors, The Elms continues to prove that a memorable getaway isn't always about how far you travel. Sometimes it's about finding a place that allows you to slow down, reconnect, and return home feeling refreshed. For generations of guests, that's exactly what The Elms has provided, and why it remains one of the region's most popular travel destinations.
For more information visit elmshotelandspa.com/
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DATING THROUGH THE ALPHABET
ARTICLE BY DARA WITTE
Three local restaurants, one letter at a time, chosen for their atmosphere, cuisine, and ability to turn a simple night out into something memorable.
PHOENIX
302 West 8th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
https://www.thephoenixkc.com/
Summary: One of Kansas City’s most iconic jazz clubs, The Phoenix pairs live music, classic cocktails, and comfort food in a historic downtown setting rooted in the city’s jazz heritage.
The Mood: Lively, soulful, and nostalgic, with live jazz and blues performances creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly Kansas City. The intimate setting keeps guests close to the music and energy of the room.
Best For: Live music lovers, casual date nights, latenight outings, and weekend brunch with friends. Must be over 21.
Favorite Things:
Favorite Dish: Downtown Dip- Shaved angus beef, provolone, horseradish, bourbon cream sauce, fries
Favorite Drink: Mama’s Martini- Infused pineapple vodka, pineapple cordial, lemon
Fun Fact: Do you love the singer at 1587? She performs at the Phoenix, too!
Q39- MIDTOWN/OVERLAND PARK
1000 West 39th Street, Kansas City, MO 641111
https://q39kc.com/
Summary: A modern Kansas City barbecue destination known for blending championship-level barbecue with a polished, chef-driven approach. Q39 delivers the smoky flavors Kansas City is famous for in a setting that feels equally suited for casual lunches and elevated nights out.
The Mood: Warm, energetic, and stylish without feeling overly formal. The open kitchen and lively dining room create an approachable atmosphere that still feels thoughtfully elevated.
Best For: Out-of-town guests, date nights, barbecue lovers, family dinners, foodie experiences, casual business lunches
Favorite Things: Favorite Dish: Mac & Q- From scratch five cheese mac with herbed bread crumbs. *Top it with the brisket! | Favorite Drink: Spicy Q MargaritaMi Campo blanco tequila, jalapeño agave nectar, triple sec, Tajín, lime
Fun Fact: Following the Chiefs’ 2020 Super Bowl victory, Coach Andy Reid celebrated with Q39 barbecue and even gave a public nod to the restaurant’s famous burnt ends.
Phoenix
ROCKHILL GRILL- CROSSROADS
2000 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108 https://therockhillgrille.com/
Summary: A stylish Crossroads staple serving elevated American comfort food with an energetic bar scene and polished atmosphere. The Rockhill Grille blends classic steakhouse warmth with a modern, social feel that works just as well for date nights as it does elevated group dinners.
The Mood: Warm lighting, leather seating, buzzing conversation, and a lively cocktail-forward energy give the space an upscale yet approachable feel. It’s the kind of restaurant that feels equally fitting before a downtown event or for a lingering dinner with friends.
Best For: Brunch, date nights, pre-show dinners, cocktails with friends, celebrations, business dinners, out-of-town guests
Favorite Things: Favorite Dish: Brunch French Toast- lemon cream cheese stuffed brioche, zabaione, berries, maple syrup, almond granola
Favorite Drink: Espresso Martini- haku vodka, licor 43, cold brew concentrate, mr black coffee liqueur
Fun Fact: The Rockhill Grille is home to The Reserve, an upstairs event space overlooking the Crossroads district that has become a popular setting for holiday parties, celebrations, and downtown Kansas City events.
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ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
DISCOVERING Green DIRT:
From artisan cheese to farm tours and memorable meals, Green Dirt invites visitors to explore the journey from pasture to plate.
Long before Green Dirt Farm became a destination for cheese lovers, food enthusiasts and weekend explorers, it started with a simple dream. Founder Sarah Hoffmann wanted to raise her children on a farm, much like the one she enjoyed growing up on. What followed was a journey that transformed a small sheep dairy into one of the region's most unique culinary experiences.
Today, Green Dirt offers visitors multiple ways to experience its story, from artisan sheep's milk cheeses and farm tours in Weston to casual lunches and elevated dining in Kansas City's Crossroads Arts District. While each location offers something different, they all remain deeply connected to the land that started it all.
The name Green Dirt reflects the farm's philosophy. As Hoffmann explains, the soil is the foundation for everything they do. Healthy pastures support healthy sheep, which produce the milk that becomes Green Dirt's award-winning cheeses. That connection to the land influences every aspect of the business, from farming practices to restaurant menus.
Green Dirt's path into hospitality happened almost by accident.
After building a successful cheese business, the company needed additional space to manage shipping and distribution. A former winery building near Weston provided the perfect solution. Along with warehouse space, the building included room for a small cheese shop. The team began serving cheese boards
and simple lunch items alongside their products. Customer demand quickly grew, leading to a larger kitchen, expanded dining space and eventually the Green Dirt Farm Creamery visitors know today.
The Weston Creamery remains the most direct connection to the farm experience. Guests can enjoy soups, sandwiches, cheese boards and one of the area's most distinctive treats: softserve ice cream made entirely from sheep's milk. The location also offers indoor seating, outdoor picnic areas, local gifts and Green Dirt merchandise.
For many visitors, however, the highlight is the farm tour.
Tours begin at the Creamery before traveling a few miles to the working farm itself. Guests receive a guided look at the sheep pastures, dairy parlor and cheese kitchen before returning for a tasting of Green Dirt's artisan cheeses. Along the way, guides explain the complete process of cheese production, helping visitors understand the journey from soil to grass, sheep to milk and ultimately milk to cheese.
The tours offer a rare glimpse into an agricultural world many people never see.
"Once guests see all this, they have a much greater appreciation for the work that goes into dairying and cheesemaking," Hoffmann says.
That appreciation often comes with a new understanding of sheep's milk itself. While many Americans are familiar with cow's milk dairy products, sheep's milk remains less common despite its long history throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. Customers are often surprised to learn that famous cheeses such as Manchego, Pecorino and Roquefort are made from sheep's milk. Others arrive expecting a strong flavor similar to goat cheese and leave pleasantly surprised by its sweet, rich and creamy profile.
The next chapter of Green Dirt's story unfolded during the pandemic.
While Hoffmann had already been exploring ways to expand production and bring the company's products closer to Kansas City customers, COVID-19 temporarily put those plans on hold. During that same period, chef Oskar Arévalo unexpectedly returned to Kansas City from France. Curious about cheesemaking, he volunteered at Green Dirt's cheese kitchen and quickly became an invaluable member of the team. His vision eventually helped shape what would become Green Dirt on Oak in the East Crossroads.
Today, Green Dirt on Oak combines several experiences under one roof. Visitors can enjoy a casual breakfast or lunch café, browse the cheese shop and even watch cheesemaking operations through windows overlooking the production space. Upstairs, guests find a more refined dining experience that highlights Green Dirt's cheeses, sheep dairy products and lamb alongside ingredients sourced from other local farms.
The restaurant has become a natural fit for the Crossroads neighborhood, where creativity and craftsmanship thrive.
"We love this neighborhood," Hoffmann says. "So many creative food and drink crafters are concentrated in the East Crossroads neighborhood where we are."
“We love this neighborhood,” Hoffmann says. “So many creative food and drink crafters are concentrated in the East Crossroads neighborhood where we are.”
photo by Janie Jones
No matter which location guests visit, certain menu items stand out. Hoffmann recommends starting with one of Green Dirt's cheese and charcuterie boards, featuring the farm's cheeses alongside house-made sourdough bread, pickles and roasted nuts. The lamb burger has developed a loyal following, and the cheesecake, made with Green Dirt's fresh cheese, is another customer favorite.
For visitors looking to fully embrace the Explore Issue spirit this summer, Hoffmann suggests turning Green Dirt into a day-long adventure. Start with a farm tour and cheese tasting in Weston, enjoy lunch at the Creamery and finish the day with dinner at Green Dirt on Oak in Kansas City.
It's a journey that perfectly captures what makes Green Dirt special: authentic experiences, handcrafted food and a deeper connection to where our food comes from. Whether you're discovering sheep's milk cheese for the first time, exploring the countryside of Weston or enjoying a memorable meal in the Crossroads, Green Dirt offers a uniquely local adventure rooted in the land, the animals and the people who care for them.
photo by Janie Jones
by
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Janie Jones
photo by Janie Jones
Ask the Expert
With Kara Kersten
Design
We're seeing a resurgence of classic architectural details such as millwork, arches, and traditional materials. Which timeless design elements do you believe are worth investing in today, and why?
Timeless design elements are always worth investing in if your home's architecture aligns with them. People value authenticity. No one likes walking into a classical home with a kitchen renovation that you can tell is from the 80's and doesn't match the rest of the house! Make the details matter. For instance, a stunning archway in a key location will have a greater effect than adding arches everywhere. You're likely to get sick of them, and feel like it's something you'll want to change down the road if you go overboard with one architectural design detail.
When planning a renovation or redesign, how do you evaluate the existing architecture of a home before making design decisions?
I have a background in Interior Architecture so evaluating a home's architectural character is my natural first instinct. It's ok to push boundaries, and live on the edge a little, but I try to ensure that permanent decisions we make align with what the architecture is already doing, or was meant to do, but got de-railed at some point.
Many homeowners make choices based on perceived resale value. How do you guide clients toward decisions that will serve them well long-term rather than simply appealing to future buyers?
Nothing drives me crazier. I don't believe we were meant to live among cookie-cutter homes when we aren't at all the same people. There's something interesting, inspiring, and fun about driving through a neighborhood where each home has its own personality. You chose your home for a reason. Something about it resonated with you. Investing in changes that follow the architectural style you were drawn to will always pay off when you sell your home. So, why make decisions about materials, color, and function that bore you just because you're thinking about the next owner instead of your own family who's actually paying for the change? Most of my clients come to me because they've already decided that the value of their personal enjoyment in their investment is of high importance to them, and they want to make sure they do it right.
Design trends come and go. What principles do you use to distinguish between a passing trend and a design choice that is likely to stand the test of time?
I can usually fast forward my perspective ten years into the future to see if a trend might get old or fade away. Balancing is key. I try to balance new ideas with old ones, classic with original, fun with calm, etc. If a client really loves a trend, I definitely want to listen to them and incorporate what excites them, but I always want to balance that with what makes sense for the rest of the home and the big picture. It's important to stick to guidelines that are timeless, while also pushing my client's comfort zone; this ensures they will love the space longer rather than get bored quickly.
How do you balance incorporating modern conveniences and lifestyles while preserving or honoring the original character and architectural integrity of a home?
Modern conveniences definitely influence the layout changes of a remodel. Newer appliances, traffic flow, entertaining, and sightlines are all big desires that alter the way we use our homes nowadays. One of the biggest tricks to maintaining character in an older or traditional home that is becoming more open is by adding cased openings to delineate spaces and provide stopping points for color or wallpaper changes. If it's a modern home, it makes sense to maintain cleaner drywall connections between ceiling planes, and hallways. In those cases, an authentic material change such as a walnut wood panel surround for a transition between spaces makes more sense to add character and delineation while capturing the simplicity intended.
For homeowners considering improvements today, what investments do you believe offer the greatest lasting value in terms of beauty, functionality, and longevity.
For the greatest lasting value, I will always say that altering the layout is your biggest improvement to a space that doesn't work well for you. After that, success typically depends on how well we utilize new storage solutions. Well-crafted cabinets regardless of style are such an improvement to your daily life by means of storage customization, and ease in everyday spaces. Authentic tile and stone countertops that exhibit a natural beauty will always retain their value longer. Just walk down the streets of Italy, and you'll see how long they can last. They patina with age, and add character. It's nice to balance those items with practical solutions tailored to people's lifestyles, but again, balance is key. If you wanna go wild, have fun with your light fixtures. They make a huge impact on style, but can easily be changed later.
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ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
CUSTOM HOMES. LUXURY LIVING.
Family Owned Since 1957
Our family has been proudly building homes for more than 60 years. Three generations of Koehler’s have served the KC community with quality construction and outstanding design. We specialize in new custom homes using our award-winning plans, tailored to fit your lifestyle—or built entirely from your vision. Together, we’ll create your dream home—one that reflects your style, offers comfort and security, and makes you smile every time you pull in the driveway. With over 1,000 custom homes of experience, let our team build a house you’ll love to call home.
PARK CITY WELLNESS
ARTICLE BY NORA HESTON TARTE
REFUEL AND RECHARGE IN UTAH’S LUXURIOUS MOUNTAIN EXPANSE
Park City is often thought of as the place to visit in winter for snow sports and movie premieres, but the Utah town, located just 30 minutes outside of Salt Lake City, is good for more than slopeside beverages and snowy mountain escapes. Visit Park City in the "off season" for a new kind of mountain adventure, one focused on wellness and recovery, with just that hint of luxury we all expect from Park City.
GET OUT AND EXPLORE
Just being out in fresh air is beneficial to body and mind and those famous skiing destinations pull double duty in warmer months. Once the snow has melted off and the snowmobiles are put away for the season, the lifts keep running, taking adventurers to the tippy top of mountains for hiking, mountain biking, and alpine rides.
If the chairlift ride wasn’t scenic enough, you can book yourself into zipline adventures, disc golf courses, and other kid-friendly activities such as gem panning and rope courses all with a spectacular view.
Park City Chamber/Bureau
Utah’s largest alpine coaster, the Park City Alpine Coaster, is located at Park City Mountain Resort. The entire gravity-powered ride covers more than one mile of distance with quick loops and hairpin turns, traveling up to 30 miles per hour. The same mountain is home to the Alpine Slide, boasting four tracks each over 3,000 feet long, making it amongst the longest alpine slides in the world.
If you’re looking to bike and hike the trails, you’ll be pleased to learn there are more than 150 miles available between Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort.
And if you’ve heard of the famous little place called Park City Olympic Park, you can step foot on the sire of the 2002 winter Olympics. The summer season runs May 22-Sept. 7 and includes a
summer bobsled experience and flying ace freestyle shows, plus access to museums where you can learn more about the Olympic games and the athletes who competed in them.
HIT THE SPA
Park City doesn’t skimp on luxury when it comes to spa treatments. Top tier options include The Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge and Spa Pendry. The first is a rare Forbes five-star rated spa with traditional treatment options as well as altitude adjustment therapy while Spa Pendry not only offers a full menu of services but also boasts rooftop pool access and a state-ofthe-art fitness center.
Deer Valley Resort
Smaller, boutique fitness outfitters exist in town including Pure Sweat + Float, FIKA Infusion, Plunj, Wellness Aesthetics, Everly Grace Whole Beauty, Jupiter Mountain Massage and sessions with Dr. Kallie Harrison (acupuncture). Each of these provides its own list of resources for relaxing and recharging for the ultimate wellness getaway.
DOWNTOWN EXPLORATION
In between your big adventures and scheduled R&R, don’t forget to get out and enjoy Park City’s main stretch. Historic Main Street is home to more than 200 businesses including a lot of art galleries, small boutiques, and restaurants. There’s even a little bit of (light) nightlife.
WHERE TO CALL HOME
If you book yourself into a resort for the weekend, Black Rock Mountain Resort won’t disappoint. The sprawling property has just about every amenity you could imagine including a TV-clad gaming room, multiple dining spaces, and a full ice rink. In early 2026, the resort unveiled The Onyx Club, which is also open to outside guests, a 10,000 square-foot fitness facility and social hub overlooking the ice rink. The gym has been outfitted with the newest technology for doing more than getting a good sweat in. If you’re looking to venture out into the great outdoors, which we highly recommend, you can rent equipment from the on-site Switchback Sports, including fly fishing gear.
Deer Valley Resort
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PERFECT GETAWAY STARTS WITH KCAC AVIATION
• No crowds or long airport lines
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• Fly on your schedule, not the airlines
CHEF PENNY MUFUKA WINNER BEST CHEF 2026 Pitch Magazine
BAMBOO PENNY’S BEST OF KC 2026 Kansas City Magazine
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Make healthy skin a priority in your life and schedule a visit today.
THIS SUMMER, BEAUTIFUL SKIN IS IN.
Kelly A. Croci, MPA, PA-C Dermatology Physician Associate
Ascentist Healthcare would like to announce dermatology as the newest addition to our team. Ascentist Dermatology is led by Kelly A. Croci, MPA, PA-C. With over 6 years of clinical dermatology experience, she has a proven track record of success, making it her mission to provide exceptional, patient-focused dermatologic care to all patients age 10 and above.
Ascentist Dermatology
4550 W. 109th St. Suite 200
Overland Park, KS 66211
Monday-Thursday 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
