Fatherly Qualities
There is something about the words that come from your dad that stick with you throughout life. Whether it’s a simple, “I’m proud of you,” after nailing a speech competition or heartfelt advice to help you heal after a breakup, “I know it hurts right now, but every day, it will hurt a little less” --those words still impact me to this day as an adult with a family. I could not help but reflect on what my dad means to me and the influence he has had on my life as I put this “Gentlemen’s” issue together. I also understand that a father for one person could look extremely different than a father to the next. Sometimes, the best father figure is not even related to you. But the character qualities of the men featured in the pages to come are all so reflective of what a father (figuratively or literally) should be.
André Davis knows how to be successful in business, but he is so much more. The key to everything he does exists in relationships. No catches, no gimmicks. He sees the value of people and aims to widen those connections by going deep with questions. He also knows when it is time to simply listen. Davis, a servant leader.
Chris Goode is an advocate for the community he loves. He learned this from his grandmother, who passed away years ago. In her honor, he has planted roots of business, health and creativity in Kansas City. Goode, a resilient proponent for good.
Andy Rieger is a well-known name. With a beloved family business hanging in the balance, he made the decisions necessary to breathe new life into Kansas City. Rieger, sacrificial and bold.
Gary Hinton has developed a unique bond with his son as they tackle the day-today functioning of Gomer’s and live life outside of their stores. He does both so well, with his son by his side. Hinton is present and wise.
Finally, two doctors by day and two dads all the time. Dr. Jeff Markey and Dr. Kyle Kimura of Ascentist Plastic Surgery care deeply about their patients and a job well done. They are truly the boys next door. Markey and Kimura, intentional and caring.
I truly hope you are reminded of someone in your life as you read about these men in our community.
SARAH JOHNS, PUBLISHER
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Sarah Johns | sarah.johns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Victoria Moore | victoria.moore@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Rebecca Spears | rebecca.spears@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR
Sarah Elise Seidel | sarahelise.seidel@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bodie
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Emmalee Rathsam | emmalee@emmaleerathsam.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda Ditch, Janie Jones, Victoria Moore, Becca Spears, Bev Weidner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lou Ann Balderston, Chris Goode, Judy Goppert, Victoria Moore, Emmalee Rathsam, Becca Spears, Bev Weidner
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
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1 – 3: Women and men from all over the city showed their support for United Way of Greater Kansas City by gathering for their Purses for Promise event. The money raised will uplift early childhood development by ensuring children gain literacy skills to create a lifetime of opportunity.
Photography by Becca Spears
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A FATHER’S LEGACY
Two well-known local liquor legends reflect on their family businesses
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Andy Rieger and sons
“People respect that loyalty. They like seeing a father and son working side by side.”
ANDY RIEGER, PRESIDENT OF J.RIEGER & CO.
Andy grew up as the last male in the Rieger family line.
Throughout his childhood, he knew of the storied past his family had - the forgotten distillery known as J. Rieger & Co. The business shut down in 1919 at the onset of federal Prohibition. Life came fast in 2010 while living in Dallas and working for an investment bank. Andy got a call one day that his father, Tom, had terminal cancer.
Despite this, his dad encouraged Andy to carve out his unique career path and not return home to Kansas City because of his diagnosis. Sadly, Andy’s father passed away just nine weeks after his diagnosis. But before he died, he gave Andy lasting advice - only ever move home if
you have a reason, and only you will know what that reason is. In addition, his father gave him instructions, “I won’t make it, but with the Rieger restaurant opening in the historic Rieger Hotel in the Crossroads, be sure you go say ‘hi’ to represent our family. Because of his instructions, Andy met bartender Ryan Maybee, and the discussion about reviving the historic brand was reborn.
Andy’s then-girlfriend, now wife, reminded Andy of his dad’s advice on moving home and helped him see that he was indeed being inspired to carry on the family business. In 2014, they moved to Kansas City to begin the revival of one of Kansas City’s most storied businesses. Today, Andy and his wife have two sons who will proudly carry on the family name.
GARY HINTON, GOMER’S FINE WINE & SPIRITS
For Gary Hinton and his son Jackson, working side by side isn’t just good for business—it’s the heart of it.
Gary is the proud owner of two Gomer’s Fine Wine & Spirits locations—one at 75th Street and another at 103rd. In 2016, 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.”
The next opportunity came in 2020 when Jim bought Royal Liquor at 103rd Street. He refurbished the space and offered it to Gary, who rebranded it as Gomer’s.
Their 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.
“We’ve hosted winery, brewery, and distillery owners who come in for seated presentations to share their products,” Gary explains.
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.”
Gary Hinton and his son, Jackson Hinton
KEEPING IT REAL
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMALEE RATHSAM
Dr. Kyle Kimura (left) and Dr. Jeff Markey (right)
ASCENTIST PLASTIC SURGEONS DR. KYLE KIMURA AND DR. JEFF MARKEY APPROACH PATIENTS WITH GENUINE CARE
Plastic surgery – a field people tend to mislabel and misunderstand. In a time where truth is regularly based on what someone might see on social media and television, the real work of what plastic surgeons can do and how they can positively impact lives is often overshadowed. Determined to break the mold and usher in a different perspective are Dr. Kyle Kimura and Dr. Jeff Markey of Ascentist Plastic Surgery. They are all about transformation, but the right kind.
“I think many assume that plastic surgery is only about what they see on Instagram or TikTok with these massive, dramatic transformations. But in reality, for me, I think the most successful and meaningful procedures are the subtle ones, natural refinements that make someone look refreshed, but most importantly, maintaining what makes you, you,” Kimura said.
Both Kimura and Markey specialize in facial rejuvenation procedures like rhinoplasty (nose), facelifts, brow lifts, and blepharoplasty (eyelids). But what sets them apart from the rest is their ability to meet patients on a human level, understanding their fears and concerns while also displaying the easy-going, genuine demeanor they both possess.
“As they’re going through a procedure, they know we are going to be there for them. We try to relate to what they’re going through as they recover from a surgery, consider a surgery, or come to a clinic for the first time. I think that comes through with both Kyle and me. This is not just a business venture. This is not just a means to achieve something professionally. We are people, as well as surgeons, as well as doctors, as well as friends,” Markey said.
A pleasing result is always their goal, and both Kimura and Markey share a similar starting point with patients. They believe communication and transparency are keys to earning the trust of someone who is choosing to put their life and appearance in their hands.
“We understand they’re making a huge leap of faith when they’re going to be put under anesthesia, undergo a transformative procedure and wake up with just their fingers crossed that it turns out well. Before their procedure, we explain every detail, from day zero through day 60. Every facet of the procedure will be covered,” Markey said.
“My ultimate goal is simple: to make patients feel better about themselves, without judgment or stigma. And that means really getting to know my patients and having open, honest conversations about the whole surgery process. And I want patients to know that, to me, they’re more than just another surgery or procedure. I truly want to do the absolute best for every patient in whatever way I can,” Kimura said.
Many patients decide to pursue facial plastic surgery because of a very particular feature they have been fixated on for many years. For them, entering into a procedure like this means much more than just a physical alteration. It reaches into their mental and emotional health, which Kimura and Markey do not take lightly.
“…by addressing these issues, whether it’s their nose, a bothersome scar, tired eyes, we’re not really ‘fixing a problem’ but helping restore them to a time when those concerns didn’t dominate their daily lives,” Kimura said.
A desire to create a space of safety and genuine care for each patient is clearly seen in the approach of both Kimura and Markey. Relating to everyone from a very human, real place is just as important to them as being excellent surgeons.
“What I think truly matters most is caring for the whole person, understanding their goals, their fears, and earning their trust. To me, I genuinely care about each individual I treat and am committed to improving not just how they look, but how they feel,” Kimura said.
“I think the clearest example is a specific patient who was in her early 20s and had wanted this done her entire life. She finally took the opportunity to have the procedure done. She came back to our clinic a week later for the reveal. The nurses and I took the cast off, and she got to look in the mirror for the first time. They’re crying. Mom’s crying, and the boyfriend is over the moon. It was a very cool moment that you had a hand in,” Markey said.
Connect with Dr. Kimura and Dr. Markey: (913) 914-5975
@KimuraFacialPlastics and @Jeff_Markey_MD
Learn more about all of the procedures offered by Ascentist Plastic Surgery by visiting their website: ascentistplasticsurgery.com/
Their office is located at 14340 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66223
Dr. Jeff Markey
Dr. Kyle Kimura
“OUR ULTIMATE GOAL IS SIMPLE: TO MAKE PATIENTS FEEL BETTER ABOUT THEMSELVES, WITHOUT JUDGMENT OR STIGMA.”
Dr. Kyle Kimura (left) and Dr. Jeff Markey (right)
LIVING A LIFESTYLE OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP
You Gotta Meet André!
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA SPEARS AND LOU ANN BALDERSTON
Photo by Lou Ann Balderston
Servant leadership is static. It’s how you operate. It’s about seeing people for who they are.
As one of the most regarded business leaders in Kansas City, André Davis takes care of business a little differently. Those who have the pleasure of connecting with Davis in a classroom, conference stage, or perhaps, just casually on the street might hear phrases like: “I never ask for anything before I give something.” “Stop presenting and start listening!” “I have information, but I never have an agenda.”
This is the mindset that has contributed to his incredible success and influence. While the opposing mentality leverages popularity and power for selfish reasons, Davis chooses to approach all people the same way -- in humility and with curiosity.
“I’m wired in a way that I’m just curious about people and didn’t really know that would be a business mantra,” he says.
Relationships are at the core of everything Davis does. In the business world, where presenting and talking are everything, he has learned a better way to engage, a way that eventually leads to better, more authentic business.
“People are fatigued at being talked at, they want to be talked with, he emphasizes. “I believe some people operate in a one-shot mentality. I don’t think that way. I think I am going to have multiple shots. I have information, but I never have an agenda.”
Davis did not grow up in a family where he was taught the ropes of business. As the youngest of three and full of burning curiosity, he became very comfortable watching and listening, which has served him well throughout the years in various industries.
“Active listening– that’s where I play! You don’t have to be an expert in that industry to have success
in that industry. You have to listen,” he says. “I am very aware of what I am, but I am very aware of what I am not.”
This posture of humility is not just in business. Servant leadership is intertwined with everything Davis does. It is who he is and cannot be compartmentalized.
“Servant leadership is static. It is how you operate. It’s about acknowledging and seeing people for who they are. My servant leadership is legacy and impact on people and organizations,” he explains.
His heart for underserved kids and education is displayed where Davis chooses to spend his free time – serving on community boards. Even outside city limits, this passion culminated in a scholarship fund Davis and his friends started at Doane University. Birthed out of a trip to the old stomping grounds, this group saw a need and decided to fill it, offering funds to help students of color with basic needs so they can stay in school.
He issues a charge for everyone to adopt this outlook:
“We need more servant leaders in this country. Stop worrying about how it impacts you and start thinking about how you impact other people. How do we change the trajectory of people who are growing up with a hard start? Anyone who has the power to help another human being should exercise that power.”
To all of this – his approach to business, community and people – he says, “It is so simple.”
While it is very simple, when someone is incredibly gifted in what they do best, they make it look very easy, too.
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RUBYJEAN ’S GARDEN
How a beloved grandmother inspired a business, book, and community garden
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS GOODE AND VICTORIA MOORE
This past April, people gathered for a ribbon cutting at a newly erected arch, marking the entrance to Ruby Jean’s Garden at 2900 Wabash Avenue in Kansas City. Once an overgrown, abandoned one-acre lot, the space is cleared and ready for planting. The city repaired the sidewalks, and new fencing is in place. Soon, the community can pick free produce and learn about gardening and wellness.
The garden is based on a sweat equity model. To receive the produce requires you to give something back. People can pick up trash, pull weeds, learn how to harvest produce, and care for the fruit trees. Any kind of input into the garden reaps a reward of produce.
Chris Goode, founder and CEO of Ruby Jean’s Juicery and the Ruby Jean’s Foundation, says, “We’re taking power back and giving knowledge, giving access, giving awareness, but it requires an exchange that has to happen. You come and serve, and then take something. Don’t just come and take. Come, serve, give, take ownership, and then take.”
Goode never had any plans to start a community garden. For the past decade, his focus has been to encourage people to live long and healthy lives by enjoying his company’s cold-pressed juice blends and finding ways to support his local community.
Ruby Jean’s, the juicery and restaurant at 3000 Troost Avenue, was named after Goode’s grandmother, who lived at 3907 Wabash Avenue. Her diet consisted mainly of soul food that included butter and seasoning salt, which contributed to her developing type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and high blood pressure. Sadly, she passed away at the age of 61 on July 28, 1999.
Goode was just 14 at the time. Even then, he wanted to find a way to honor her. Goode was introduced to juicing as an adult and went on his first juice fast. He was so impressed by how much better he felt that he decided the Juicery would be the perfect way, to
Photo by Chris Goode:
Ruby Jean’s Garden - before
not only honor his grandmother, but also break down barriers and make health and wellness more inclusive.
He says, “The unique thing about Ruby Jean’s Juicery is that we are a very proud black company, but our audience is its confetti. We exist for all people.”
Today, Ruby Jean’s juice is found at the Troost location and over 100 Whole Foods locations around the United States, including 301 E 51st Street in Kansas City. The colorful bottles are also available at various stores, coffee shops, and sports complexes around the area.
As the business grew, people started asking Goode to speak to children about his healthy mission. He soon discovered the kids were more interested in drinking juice than in hearing him talk.
That’s what inspired his children’s book, Ruby Jean’s Garden. The book begins with the true story of Ruby Jean, to the point where she goes to the hospital. However, in this tale, she survives, comes home from the hospital, throws out all the bad food in her kitchen, and starts sharing healthy foods with her family. Plus, she creates a free community garden.
Goode notes, “So, this was just an idealistic ending. I had no desire to plant a garden. I just wanted kids to be able to see it as, ‘Hey, we love our grandma, and she got sick. How? Oh, too much soul food. And she got better. How? Oh, reformed lifestyle, healthier food, and movement. What does she do with that knowledge? She shared it with her family. And then she shared it with our community.”
Soon after writing the book, Goode was approached by his friend, master gardener Philip Ramsey, with the idea for a community garden. And that’s how fiction became reality.
“This is all about creating a healthier existence, and that’s not just a physical posture,” Goode says. “It’s also from a cultural perspective. How assets are more culturally aligned with people, and how they identify with the landscape. I think the less trash we have, the more value we place on our own neighborhoods, which makes you innately healthier. It’s really all about health, but from a very well-rounded, holistic point of view that far exceeds our physical body.”
“WE
To learn more, visit RubyJeansJuicery.com and RubyJeansFoundation.com . Copies of Ruby Jean’s Garden are available at the Troost location or GoodeChris.com .
KC’s Family Tennis Shop
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA SPEARS
THE TENNIS SET, KANSAS CITY’S ENDURING TENNIS GEAR DESTINATION
The Tennis Set opened its doors in 1977, after Jane Rodney and her brother John Tidrick had been wanting to start a business, and noticed that there weren’t many places in Kansas City to buy tennis gear for kids. Matt Rodney, Jane’s son, was 10 at the time, and playing lots of tennis.
“So out of the blue, (my brother) called one day, and said, ‘You know, we should open a tennis shop’.” Jane recalled.
She remembered with a smile how much they improvised in the beginning. She talked about going to market for the first time with a new business and a shoestring budget, and sitting at the kitchen table with her brother, estimating what apparel quantities and sizes to buy based on how many of her friends wore a certain size.
They may have started out winging it, but 48 years later, they are the only remaining family owned tennis-focused shop in Kansas City.
Matt started working at the shop when he was 15. After college he spent many years coaching higher level junior tennis players.
Then 12 years ago his Uncle John decided to retire and Matt became the owner of The Tennis Set. Jane has continued to be involved at the shop.
Both Jane and Matt talked about how fulfilling it has been to work with so many of their own family members in the shop over the years, and also seeing their customers’ families grow up over time. Some of their regular customers have been shopping with them for 48 years, and have introduced their kids and grandkids to the shop as well.
Jane said unequivocally that it’s the people she loves most about the business. She recalled how much she loves when high school players come in and greet her with a smile and share their latest match scores. She shared that some of her good friendships have started through the shop.
Jane and Matt discussed the uniqueness they see in tennis as a sport. Jane said tennis keeps people young because it’s such great exercise and so social.
Matt pointed out, “Tennis is a sport that can be played at any level and still be enjoyable. Regardless of level, you can still get out there and have fun and laugh.”
When it comes to shopping for rackets, shoes, and pickleball paddles, it can be overwhelming, and most people won’t know where to start if they are shopping online or in a large sporting goods store. Rackets vary in head size, grip size, weight, string material, and tension. Personal service and years of knowledge distinguish Tennis Set as an easier and friendlier place to find the right gear.
Mention this article and receive a one time 20% discount on apparel and shoes through 6/30/2025.
3695 W 95th St, Overland Park, KS 66206 (913) 529-8100
more information:
Scott Schibig, Racquet Sports Director at Carriage Club, is wearing a men’s Nike Heritage set from Tennis Set.
Mike Murphy, also a Tennis Professional at The Carriage Club, is wearing a men’s Adidas set from the store.
Scott says, “I think it’s amazing that the KC Tennis Community has a tennis-specific store to shop at. It’s nice to have a store in our community that you can see a friendly face, try on shoes and clothing, try a demo racquet, and talk to a person about what type of strings you want and need for your game.”
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Your Perfect Pairing
Let the experts at Gomer’s help you find the perfect bourbon for the man in your life. Then complete the experience with a visit to our walk-in humidor, where the perfect cigar awaits.
Want a chance to try some allocated and exclusive pours? Visit Gomers on Stateline, the Ed Moody pour room is open, Thursday/Friday 4-8pm Saturday 2-6pm
STEAK WITH PESTO GNOCCHI
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEV WEIDNER
Dive into a delicious rendition of steak in the summer
ingredients:
• 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 beef tenderloin tails
• 1 pound pre-made gnocchi
• 1 cup Swiss chard pesto (or whatever pesto you prefer!)
• coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
directions:
Step 1. Rub the steaks with the olive oil and season well with salt and pepper.
Step 2. Bring a cast iron skillet to a medium-high heat.
Step 3. Sear the steaks on both sides until your preferred doneness. Mine is medium-rare, so it was about 10 minutes total. Remove from heat, cover and let rest for 5 -10 minutes.
Step 4. In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float, 3 minutes. Drain and stir in the pesto until combined.
Step 5. Serve steaks over a bed of pesto gnocchi and experience true living.
* If tenderloin tails aren’t your thing, go with any cut of meat you prefer. Or leave it off altogether for a simple vegetarian meal!
DR. KYLE KIMURA,
FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON
Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Kyle Kimura brings world-class expertise from Vanderbilt and Stanford to Kansas City.
He specializes in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation, including facelift, neck lift, brow lift, and eyelid surgery. Known for his natural results and down-to-earth approach, Dr. Kimura takes time to understand your goals and guides you with honesty, care, and precision — helping you look and feel like the best version of yourself.
