Leawood, KS June 2024

The E-Class is the beautiful union of blue-sky thinking and starry-eyed dreaming. Groundbreaking technologies elevate the driving convenience and passenger satisfaction of open-air motoring. The rush of the wind starts from within the E-Class Cabriolet. From its turbo- and electric-boosted engine to its aerodynamic body and available air suspension, the E-Class harnesses the air to put the wind at your back. Test drive the E-Class Cabriolet at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City today.

The Men’s Issue

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 @LEAWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Cristine Lindholm | cristine.lindholm@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Judy Goppert, Mindy Hargesheimer, Lauren Powers, Jenny Vergara

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

WHY CHOOSE WOOD

Wood is Healthier

Because wood flooring requires fewer chemicals to make and install, it helps promote healthier living and work environments.

The EPA found that hardwood floors improve air quality because they are less likely to harbor dangerous microorganisms, pesticides, and allergens, such as dust, mold, or pet dander.

Wood is Durable

Vinyl flooring will last only a decade or two, while quality wood flooring can last more than 100 years.

Wood floors will stand up to foot traffic and will maintain their color finish with proper maintenance. Vinyl flooring, however, will last only a decade or two and fade dramatically over time when exposed to sunlight.

Wood floors are easy to maintain and can be repaired with relative ease. But vinyl typically needs to be replaced completely if it’s damaged.

Wood is Sustainable

Wood is a zero waste product. For example, old wood from flooring can be turned into other products or simply bio-degrade.

Other flooring types, such as vinyl, are made from plastics or synthetic fibers that take multiple decades to break down and decompose. Recycling companies typically reject old vinyl flooring because it’s not profitable for them. And, the alternative form of disposal - burning - releases harmful phthalate chemicals into the air.

Wood Makes Sense Economically

Many homeowners love the look of hardwood flooring and other features in their home. But they are also concerned about the initial expense of installing wood.

Putting wood floors into your home is truly a good investment. Real hardwood floors add to the resale value of your home. The average return on investment is 70 to 80%!

1-3: Newly opened Aqua Penny’s celebrating their Grand Opening. Aqua Penny’s is located in Park Place, Leawood and offers reimagined coastal seafood and a unique oyster bar.

Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City South

Leawood, Loch Lloyd, and the surrounding developments found Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City MBKC is the Mercedes-Benz Dealer of South Kanas City.  Everyone Agrees so our new name is Mercedes-Benz of Kanas City – South.

Same great personalized and professional sales service and selection. Mercedes Benz of Kansas City South, one half mile east of State Line on Highway 150. MB of KCS.com

Sweet Granada Opening

Sweet Granada at Red Bridge will be a nostalgic dessert stop with yearround treats like truffles, fudge, gelato, macarons, and nut clusters. Their chocolate case will offer over 100 assorted desserts including their best-seller, Pop-Choc, a delicious combination of Kansas City-based Velvet Creme popcorn and Sweet Granada’s specialty chocolate. Sweet Granda will also feature seasonal collections, and ready to purchase bundles.

Big Slick Celebrates 15 Years

2024 marks the 15th year of the Big Slick Celebrity weekend and has raised more than 21 million dollars.Every dollar raised goes directly to Children’s Mercy to advance Big Slick’s goal of eradicating pediatric cancer. Over the years, the attention that Big Slick has brought to Children’s Mercy has helped with their recruiting efforts attracting top medical and research talent from around the globe. To learn more visit  https://support.childrensmercy.org/give/524316/#!/ donation/checkout

AN

A Legacy of Resilience

Nurturing the Community and Sustaining Tradition for Over 100 Years

ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Nestled in the heart of Platte County, Missouri, Pearl Family Farm stands as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of family farming. What began as a dream for freedom and land ownership in the 19th century has blossomed into a thriving, sustainable farm that not only produces a bounty of fresh, healthy produce but also nurtures a deep connection to the communities they serve.

The history of Pearl Family Farm is intertwined with the story of the Pearl family's ancestors, particularly Milton Paxton, who was born a slave in Kentucky in 1813. Once freed, Milton changed his name from Paxton to Pearl. Milton's dream of owning his farm was realized by his son, David Pearl, who purchased 87 acres of land in 1890. This act marked the beginning of a legacy that continues to this day, with Michael Pearl at the helm of the farm.

Michael was raised on the farm, where he developed a passion for growing and a commitment to sustainable farming practices. Today, Pearl Family Farm grows a variety of specialty crops, including blueberries, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, and more. Their approach to sustainability is comprehensive, incorporating practices such as extensive crop rotation, composting, cover cropping, and no use of harmful pesticides.

For the past 13 years, Pearl Family Farm has been a staple at the Overland Park Farmers Market, where they have created relationships with customers and fellow vendors. Their commitment to quality and community has not gone unnoticed, as they were voted Vendor of the Year in 2022.

“Pearl Family Farm is much more than just a farm.”

“We have made friends, acquired customers and have developed lasting relationships at the market. Some customers have turned into employees, our kids have turned into productive adults and the market has morphed into one the best in the country,” Michael shares.

As the seasons change and the land evolves, Pearl Family Farm remains rooted in its commitment to sustainable practices. They continue to innovate and adapt, seeking new ways to improve soil health, preserve habitats, and reduce their environmental footprint.

Beyond the farm, the family is actively involved in community leadership and mentoring. “We are represented on several boards, organizations and projects that serve to help alleviate food insecurity in our area,” said Michael.

Through their efforts, they not only provide fresh, nutritious produce to their customers at the market as well as local restaurants, but they also serve as stewards of the land, ensuring that future generations will have access to healthy, locally grown food.

What sets Pearl Family Farm apart is not just their commitment but also their status as a true family farm. Multiple generations of the Pearl family are involved in the day-to-day operations, creating a strong sense of community and continuity. The farm is recognized as a Missouri Century Farm through the University of Missouri as well as an African American Farm through the Department of Agriculture. This dedication to family and community is further evident in their engagement with the local community, both at the farmers market and beyond.

“We have made friends, acquired customers and have developed lasting relationships at the market.”

At Pearl Family Farm, the harvest goes beyond the fruits and vegetables they grow; it encompasses the relationships they cultivate and the impact they have on their community. As they work towards their next 100 years, they do so with a deep sense of gratitude for the land that sustains them and a profound respect for the legacy of those who came before. Pearl Family Farm is much more than just a farm; it is a living testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of family, and the enduring beauty of a life connected to the land.

Stop by to meet Michael and his family at the Overland Park Farmers Market each Sunday 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM or visit their website for more information: https://www.pearlfamilyfarm.com/

BILLIE’S GROCERY IN LEAWOOD

Named After Dad, But Run by His Daughter

ARTICLE BY JENNY VERGARA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

The secret to Robin Krause’s success is her ability take a good thing, make it better and then multiply it. As the owner of Billie’s Grocery, now with two locations, one in midtown Kansas City, and her newest in Leawood, Kansas, Krause has shown she has a knack for repeating herself in a fresh and delicious way.

“He was the one that gave me my passion for food and hospitality.”

Growing up in a restaurant family in Peculiar, Missouri, Krause worked at her parents at their own greasy spoon, Bill & Deb’s Café. It was a popular spot in town serving diner food favorites, and it was her Dad, Billie, as his family and friends called him, who was the chef and foodie in the family.

“He was always cooking. At the restaurant, he would make eggs and bacon at breakfast or fried chicken at dinner, a recipe we still use at my restaurant today, and when he came home you could find him putting a pot of lobsters on to boil in the backyard,” says Krause. “He was the one that gave me my passion for food and hospitality.”

She even approached her Dad at one point about them opening a restaurant together in Kansas City,

but she could never convince the country boy that city life could be for him. When he died unexpectedly in 2015, it hit Krause hard. “He didn’t drink or smoke, but he had a terrible diet, so when he died of a sudden heart attack, it was a shock, and made me look at my own health in a new way,” she explains.

At the time of her father’s death, Krause was busy running four Filling Station Coffee locations and Soho Bakery, a business she built from the ground up, and one that was taking its toll on her own physical health at the time. That’s when she made the decision to sell her entire portfolio to the folks at Messenger Coffee, keeping a financial stake for a time, and left the restaurant industry to focus on her own physical healing, and her desire to help others heal.

“At that point, I wanted to focus on building my wellness practice, so I went back to school to get my degree from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition where I became a nutritional therapist and health coach, explains Krause. “In order to support my family while I was in school, I needed to either make a job or find a job, so I decided to open Unbakery and Juicery, recently renamed, Billie’s Juicery, in East Brookside and the rest has flowed from there.”

For her second Billie’s Grocery at Ranchmart North, Krause delivers an all-white, sleek space that is more than double in size from her midtown spot and includes a breezy wrap-around outdoor patio, coffee and cocktail bar. The pastry case has also doubled in size, overflowing with sweet treats that include gluten-free and dairy free cakes, bars, cookies, bread and more made by her pastry team at her new commissary bakery on Kansas City’s Westside just for Billie’s Grocery.

The menus are identical at both locations offering a breakfast/brunch menu and an all-day menu, which both focus on serving healthy, whole food dishes that cater to both meat-lovers as well as those who prefer a plant-based diet. Krause says some of her most popular dishes are the gluten-free sesame fried chicken salad and the lazy sushi bowl made with marinated sashimi grade raw tuna, rice and vegetables, but still others prefer her grass-fed beef burger or Reuben sandwich.

New to the Leawood location is something Krause has nicknamed the “bougie salad bar,” but it is something she took from her favorite gourmet grocery store in Los Angeles, Erewhon. For those that don’t want to wait in line to order from her regular menu, she has a separate counter that offers a rotating selection of different fresh salads that guests can and either order by the pint to-go or they can get a box and choose to mix and match several salads for one price.

“At

the restaurant, he would make eggs and bacon at breakfast or fried chicken at dinner, a recipe we still use at my restaurant today, and when he came home you could find him putting a pot of lobsters on to boil in the backyard.”

There is a much expanded grab-and-go grocery area stocked with her own line of soups, sauces, and dressings along with meals and sides to re-heat and enjoy at home, and a new in-house floral department selling fresh arrangements, along with a much expanded selection of gifts, cookbooks, healthy home and kitchen goods.

Billie’s Grocery is meant to give people plenty of options to eat and drink, options that weren’t necessarily available to her Dad, but might have helped prolong his life. Her restaurant is a love

letter to him, and everyone else looking for more food options to make their own culinary choices a little easier to feed.

Billie’s Grocery in Leawood is open Monday through Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm, and Sunday 8 am to 3 pm.

Billie’s Grocery Leawood, 3614 West 95th Street, Leawood, Kansas, 66206, 913-415-2222, billiesgrocery.com

taste THE DIFFERENCE

Wagyu

ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Welcome to Booth Creek. This local beef hails from the flint hills of Kansas, near Manhattan, Kansas, and they are on a mission to elevate the idea of farm to fork. They own the entire process from genetics, herd development, specialized wagyu feeding, and processing, to retail and distribution. Their team of wagyu experts knows what it takes to create the best product.

“The business began in 2020 when our founder and CEO, Dave Dreiling, attended his first Wagyu auction. He bought four full-blood Wagyu and 28 Wagyu Embryos from his uncle’s dispersal sale. Booth Creek Wagyu became the basis for a vertically integrated beef production operation, from the genetics and ranch operation all the way to processing, sales and distribution, Jeff Jones, Director of Marketing, explained. “This would assure quality control through the entire process and allow us to keep everything local. Our ranch, processing facility and distribution center are all located within 20 miles of each other, so we have traceability through every aspect of the process. That allows unparalleled quality control. It’s all about the marbling, which contributes to a rich buttery taste and the beef’s tenderness. Wagyu beef is higher in Omega 3s and 6s than salmon and is lower in cholesterol than chicken. So not only does the marbling create an amazing product it also has great health benefits!”

Booth Creek Wagyu offers four different grades of Wagyu, based on the amount of marbling. Their lowest cut starts at 10 percent Intermuscular Fat, or IMF. This is equal to or better than UDSD Prime Beef and their grades go up to more than 40 percent IMF. As the marbling increases, so does the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Online nationwide sales began, and the Manhattan store opened in 2021. A new retail store opened last summer in Overland Park, located in the Deer Creek Plaza Shopping Center.

“You’re not just picking up a steak. You’re talking to experts and you’re able to experience different grades. So, you can dial into Wagyu like you would wine or bourbon,” said Dave Dreiling, Founder and CEO of Booth Creek Wagyu.

This is the ideal gift for the father or father figure in your life, as they can ship gift boxes anywhere in the lower 48 states in the Continental United States. They offer a variety of gift packages starting at just $85, or you can customize and build your own gift featuring their steaks, roasts, and snacking products. Their website offers recipes, cooking tips, history and more.

Some gift options to entice Dad’s palate would be the Ribeye, KC Strip and Tomahawk. They also offer a box with Ground Beef, Wagyu Hot Dogs and Seasoning that would be perfect for grilling season.

The Overland Park retail store is located at 13412 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park. Other locations are in Wichita and Manhattan, Kansas. Visit  boothcreekwagyu.com  for more information or to shop.

YEARS IN CELEBRATING 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

+ INCREASE & MAINTAIN RANGE OF MOTION + FEEL LIGHTER & YOUNGER + RELIEVE STIFFNESS & SORENESS + ENHANCE PHYSICAL & ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

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/

For car racing enthusiasts, World of Racing opened its doors to Kansas City this spring as the first of its kind, local car simulator experience to immerse yourself in the thrill of the track! With over a dozen full-motion sims and courses to lean into, drivers can choose from the 30-minute Quick Race, 55-minute Full Race, or the 55-minute Nordschleife Hotlapping Experiences that will challenge your mental and physical handling skills necessary for successfully completing each race.

HERE’SANEW PA DDOCKINTOW

TARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

With the heightened popularity of F1, thanks to a return to the US in 2000 and the Netflix series Formula 1: Drive to Survive, racing has never been more en vogue than it is today, making the addition of this recreational destination even more exhilarating.

Owner and KC-native, Todd Dieffenbach is a self-proclaimed F1 fanatic, most recently attending the November 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix: It is here that he made the connection of a lifetime with World of Racing founder Donovan Janus who invited him into a firsthand experience of his premier sim racing technology as part of the event’s adjacent festivities, which quickly led to conversations about franchising the country’s first location right here in Leawood.

The opportunity to give adrenaline junkies and racing fans a highly realistic driving experience is the mission, therefore all simulators are equipped with motions that absolutely nothing else can compare to. Plus, the World of Racing encompasses a relaxed vibe sporting vintage car-themed accessories and a showstopper carpool table.

Headsets add to the experience, drawing drivers into the cockpit as if the engine’s intensity is right there in front of them. While visitors can race solo, part of the fun includes racing against others, eliciting some good old-fashioned trash talk and friendly competition.

Bring your crew and book your sims ahead of time, or consider renting the paddock out for a private event. And, in the words of Ricky Bobby, “If you ain’t first, you’re last.” See you all at the paddock!

Website: .worldofracing.com

Instagram: @worldofracingkc

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.

Position the ball in the back of your stance, just inside your back ankle. This will help avoid hitting it thin. That ball position will also help you hit the ball with a descending blow, and as Dave Pelz says, “hit the little ball (golf ball) before the big ball (the earth).”

Turn your feet 30 degrees toward the target and have 70% of your weight on your front foot which also promotes the descending blow.

Use a putting stroke to hit the ball. That’s right—do not use your hands or wrists for power. Using a putting stroke just off the green will create consistency and clean contact.

Don’t take the club back very far (depending on the length of the shot) and make sure your follow-through is 20% further than your backswing. This will ensure accelerating through the ball.

Use the right club. I use anything from a 9 iron to 60-degree wedge for this shot. Use a 9 iron or wedge when you need the ball to roll further once it hits the green, and use a more lofted club for less roll. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

If you perfect this shot, you’ll be chipping in and getting up and down much more often.

Sweet Summer

Summer Concert Series

SATURDAYS IN JUNE & AUGUST (7PM - 9PM) Free outdoor concerts featuring top local bands.

June 1: The Champagne

June 8: The Zeros

June 15: Elton Dan & the Rocket Band

June 22: Way Too Famous

June 29: The Suburbans

Second Saturdays for Kids!

EVERY SECOND SATURDAY (10AM - NOON) Kids rule! Free entertainment for mornings filled with play, laughter, and meaningful moments together.

June 8: Little Artists' Take Over July 13: Summer Foam Party!

Wednesday Date Night

EVERY WEDNESDAY (6PM - 8PM) Live music for a mid-week date night! Connect over a great line-up of pop/rock, country, and even reggae!

Pinwheel Club

TUESDAYS IN JUNE & JULY (9AM - 11AM)

A free weekly kids club with crafts, entertainment, and games.

Guitars & Games

EVERY FRIDAY (6PM - 8PM) Free live acoustic music and lawn games.

Visit ParkPlaceLeawood.com for more details.

Park Place is located on the northeast corner of Nall Avenue & 117th St., just north of AMC 20 Theatre.

VISIT US AT 135TH AND METCALF