The GLC continues to advance its role in the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, and its industry segment, with an ideal balance of sportiness and elegance. Its body is wind-carved yet muscle-toned, with a long hood, confident stance, and a high degree of aerodynamic refinement. The Star-centered grille is delicately outlined in chrome, while the LED lighting, side windows and flared fenders all flow into a shape that’s sensual yet spacious. Browse available inventory and take a testdrive at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City South.
Locally Owned & Operated.
Crowley Furniture & Mattress has proudly served Kansas City for over 70 years, o ering the Bassett brand for decades.
In 2017, the Crowley family opened Bassett Kansas City in Overland Park to provide a full-service, custom design experience.
Enjoy high-quality, custom furniture with the personal touch of a local, family-owned business.
Letter from the Publisher
Welcome to our annual Gent’s issue – a nod to dads.
I had the pleasure of meeting the President of J. Reiger & Co. at Scratch Gourmet Kitchen in the fall. My boyfriend and I attended the special event where craft cocktails made with J. Rieger spirits were paired with a six-course meal. Between the courses, guests enjoyed listening to Andy Rieger tell stories. There was lots of history (before prohibition) and details about the renais sance of the distillery.
After dinner, Andy joined our table. While I gathered his dad had passed away, I was curious how old Andy was when this happened. Andy was in his 20’s. He said it wasn’t long after he graduated from SMU and found success in the finance industry in Texas. This resonated with me. I lost my father to cancer within a year of college graduation, and my media sales career had just started taking off. We all had a toast for our dads.
A few months later, a friend was visiting and I suggested we take the distillery tour at J. Rieger & Co. It was amazing! Andy’s family legacy remained top of my mind, and I started sharing my experience in conversations. Meanwhile It occurred to me that our magazine is supported by lots of legacy businesses. Maybe we could feature their family businesses alongside Andy’s – one of Kansas City’s oldest brands. When I shared the idea with Andy, he agreed and kindly offered the Hey! Hey! Club as our photoshoot backdrop.
From time to time, we bring all our partners together to celebrate a specific issue. On June 10th, we will do just that. The event will take place upstairs in The Monogram Lounge and we decided to make it a fund and friend raiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of KC. The programs and volunteers of this organization are exceptionally beneficial to our community’s children. Many of these kids are missing their dad. If you want to attend this invite-only event, please inquire at cristine.lindholm@citylifestyle.com . If we are not sold out, I’d love to include you, our loyal readers.
I am so grateful I was an adult before my father passed. At the time it was so hard, but my formidable years were behind me and his influence has carried on for years. Happy heavenly Father’s Day to my dad!
1—7: Go Red For Women Luncheon 2025 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
Optimal Health & Wellness Now Has Four Providers
Optimal Health and Wellness would like to welcome Stacie Barber, MSN, FNP-C who joined the practice in February. She is joining Bryan Woodworth, MA-B, CRNA and Amanda Woodworth, MSN, FNP-C, WHNP-BC who founded Optimal Health and Wellness in 2017, and
Leawood to Celebrate Grand Opening of New Playground at Tomahawk Park
The City of Leawood is thrilled to announce the grand opening of a brandnew, state-of-the-art playground at Tomahawk Park, a cherished destination for generations of families. This extraordinary new playground is a gift to the community—a one-of-a-kind, interactive space designed to bring joy, learning, and connection to Leawood families for generations to come.
Booth Creek Wagyu Opens Second Location
Booth Creek Wagyu proudly celebrated the grand opening of its second Johnson County location with a ribbon cutting in Prairie Village on March 24. The event marked another exciting step in bringing premium, ranch-totable Wagyu beef directly to the community. Thank you to everyone who joined us. We are excited to continue sharing our story and our steaks.
PairingPerfect
Renovations | Furnishings New Construction Design DEEPLY PERSONAL, HIGHLY CUSTOMIZED INTERIORS THAT LET YOU
karakerstendesign.com | V @karakerstendesign infokarakerstendesign@gmail.com
A FATHER’S Legacy
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
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.
KEN & MILES Green
MITCHELL CAPITAL
At Mitchell Capital, family and legacy go hand in hand. The firm was founded by Fred Mitchell in 1987, with Ken Green joining just a few years later in 1990. When Fred retired in 2010, Ken and two other partners—none of them related—acquired his shares, later bringing in younger partners like Ken’s son, Miles, in 2021 to maintain a strong foundation of employee ownership.
“Advising clients and managing investments has always been my passion,” said Ken. “Joining Fred’s team to build fixed-income portfolios was a defining moment for me, and I never looked back. He established a culture rooted in client service and strong performance, and that still guides us.”
That commitment runs deep. With their family name directly tied to their work, both father and son see every decision as personal—and every result as a reflection of shared values. Prioritizing clients isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a responsibility.
Miles didn’t grow up aiming to join the firm. “I was drawn to architecture, and later considered accounting at my dad’s suggestion,” he said. “But in college, I found my fit—combining accounting with the analytical mindset investment management demands. That’s when I committed to the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program and made this path my own.”
Ken never pushed him into the business, Miles noted. “That freedom made it easier. I joined when I was ready, with real clarity on what the firm stands for. Mitchell Capital has thrived for nearly 40 years, but lasting another 40 depends on thoughtful leadership and authentic alignment—not obligation.”
Like his father, Miles sees the future in continuity, not pressure. “If my kids show interest, great—but only if it fits who they are and what they love.”
All in the family! Crowley Furniture & Mattress has been a household name since 1954, when Charley and Marilyn Crowley opened the original store in Excelsior Springs, MO. Their son Greg joined the business in 1972 and took the reins in 1985, expanding to Liberty, MO, and championing the kind of customer service that has long defined the Crowley name.
In 2003, Greg’s daughter Laura became the third generation to join the company. With a keen entrepreneurial sense and her dad’s mentorship, she helped grow the brand further into the Kansas City area, adding stores in Lee’s Summit, MO, and Overland Park, KS.
Katie, Greg’s youngest daughter, brought her creative energy to the business in 2019. With a background in architecture, she now leads the marketing and brand strategy, infusing fresh perspective into the family’s legacy.
Today, Crowley Furniture & Mattress is proud to serve the Kansas City community with four locations in Liberty, Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Blue Springs, along with their Bassett Furniture store in Overland Park.
“We offer furniture, mattresses, décor, and more—always with an emphasis on value and service,” Katie shared.
They’ve never lost touch with their roots. Charley’s favorite place was a rocking chair by the front door, greeting customers like old friends. That spirit still guides their team today. “We want every guest to feel welcomed and at home—like part of the Crowley family,” Katie said.
Laura knew early on that she’d be part of the business—she came home from third-grade career day announcing it. She and Katie feel honored to carry on what their grandparents started. “It’s a privilege,” Laura said. “Our dad encourages innovation and fresh ideas. His openness makes being part of the family business both meaningful and fun.”
KATIE, GREG & LAURA Crowley
CROWLEY FURNITURE
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.”
FORREST SWYDEN & Kylie Oberweather
CHICK-FIL-A
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 Chick-fil-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.
For Gary Hinton and his son Jackson, working side by side isn’t just good for business—it’s the heart of it. Together, they’re building something that goes beyond bottles and shelves: a family legacy rooted in community, connection, and shared passion.
Gary is the proud owner of two Gomer’s Fine Wine & Spirits locations—one at 75th Street and another at 103rd. His journey into ownership began in 2016, when his friend Jim Probst, then owner of the 75th Street store, approached him with a proposal.
“Jim was ready to purchase the Parkville store that had been owned by Tom Stacey for 25 years,” Gary recalls. “Since Jim lived in Parkville, it made perfect sense for him. That’s when he asked if I wanted to buy the 75th Street store—and I did, on November 1st of that year.”
The next opportunity came in 2020 when Jim bought Royal Liquor at 103rd Street. He refurbished the space, then offered it to Gary. “I bought that store on September 1, 2022,” Gary says. “We rebranded it as Gomer’s, and I’ve continued to update and improve it ever since.”
One of the biggest additions? A vibrant tasting room, opened just over a year ago. “We’ve hosted winery, brewery, and distillery owners who come in for seated presentations to share their products,” Gary explains. “It’s a space that brings people together.”
The tasting room is open to the public on Thursdays and Fridays from 4 to 8 p.m., and Saturdays from 2 to 6 p.m., offering a curated selection of premium bourbons, scotches, beers, and wines by the glass or shot.
But perhaps the most special ingredient in their recipe for success is family.
Gary and Jackson split their time between the two stores, a presence customers notice and appreciate. “People respect that loyalty,” Gary says. “They like seeing a father and son working side by side.”
A proud father, Gary is quick to reflect on what matters most. “I have 28-year-old twins, Jackson and Valerie. I coached Jackson in baseball, football, and basketball—and I never missed a single game. I was just as present for Valerie’s choir performances. Those are moments I’ll always cherish.”
Now, Gary looks forward to the future with confidence—and gratitude. “I consider myself a lucky dad. Working with my son has been one of the greatest blessings of my career. I’m excited for the day he takes the lead.”
JACKSON & GARY Hinton
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 wellliked 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.
“Our inspiration comes from our midwestern values, daily family lives, and a steady fascination with clothing and style.”
MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS
DISCOVER THE HEART of Community
at the Overland Park Farmer’s Market
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
DISCOVER THE HEART OF COMMUNITY AT OPFM
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. 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."
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.
“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.”
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.
THE KANSAS CITY CLIMBING COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
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.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATE NEUENSCHWANDER
“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.
“Kansas City Climbing Community recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.”
“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.”
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.
—EMMA F.
“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
“KCCC hosts at least one meetup each month, rotating between gyms, local crags, and off the wall activities.”
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
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 estate-land, 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-square-feet, 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-ofthe-art 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-em-from-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.
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.
ONE MAN’S DEVOTION TO ROYALS BASEBALL
Inside the Crown
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
“
“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.”
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.
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.
Summer Starts Here
Summer Concert Series
SATURDAYS IN JUNE & AUGUST (7PM - 9PM) Free outdoor concerts featuring top local bands.
June 7: Stolen Winnebagos
June 14: Material Girl & The Fame Monster
June 21: Perpetual Change
June 28: The Zeros
Second Saturdays for Kids!
EVERY SECOND SATURDAY (10AM - NOON)
Kids rule! Free entertainment for mornings filled with play, laughter, and meaningful moments together.
June 14: It’s a Bubble Party
July 12: 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.
KCMC Summer Bash
SATURDAY, JUNE 21 (9AM - 11AM)
Kick off the season with a fun-filled family block party presented by Kansas City Mom Collective. Entertainment, games, giveaways, and more!
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.
