The Art of Purposeful Style
This month we explore the profound connection between style and purpose—a relationship that goes beyond appearance and delves into intention and expression.
Style is not just about what we wear; it begins with our thoughts and words forming the foundation of how we present ourselves to the world. It’s a deliberate decision, an art form that reflects our inner values and beliefs. Every choice we make, from the fabric we select to the way we arrange our living spaces, is a manifestation of our purpose. It’s a statement about who we are and what we stand for.
When style is guided by purpose, it becomes more than just a visual statement. It’s a thoughtful curation of elements that resonate with our personal journey. The elegance of simplicity, the luxury of comfort, the subtlety of details—each decision is a brushstroke on the canvas of our lives, creating a masterpiece that is uniquely ours.
In this issue we share the stories of Viktoriya Solensky, owner of John’s Suit Shop. She is so talented and has made such impact. We just knew she was well suited for the style issue! Then there is Amy Kern, who leads as an advocate for her clients and community. I’m in awe of their style!
We invite you to consider how your style aligns with your purpose:
• How do your thoughts and words shape the way you express your style?
• Are your decisions in style reflective of your values and intentions?
• In what ways does your style serve as an art form that communicates your purpose to the world?
• How can you infuse more purpose into the choices you make, from the clothes you wear to the spaces you create?
These pages are full of people whose style is fueled by purpose. May your style become a true reflection of your purpose and the life you wish to lead.
DONNA KING, PUBLISHER @SPRINGFIELDCITYLIFESTYLE
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Donna King | donna.king@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Brian Walker | brian.walker@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Hunter Jazz, Cate Marian, Sheena Steedman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tiffany Enowski, Erika Wiggins
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
TRUSTED RESULTS
city scene
1: WHERE THE COUNTRY GIRLS AT 2: Great style for the Luke Bryan show. 3 – 5: THAT’S MY KIND OF NIGHT -Luke Bryan 6: Excited to see Luke! 7: Brett Young concert at Black Oak Amphitheater.
8: Thunder Ridge is a one-of-a-kind immersive outdoor “musical postcard from Mother Nature.” 9: Music, nature and an air show to start the night off- Now that’s Style! 10: Iconic Rolling Stones final stop on their North American Tour- Thunder Ridge Nature Arena
business monthly
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Mama Jean’s Natural Market $35,000 Donation to Eden Village
Mama Jeans owners presented Eden Village with a $35,000 donation check to build a home. The Gathering Tree/Eden Village provides dignified housing & a loving community of hospitality for Springfield’s chronically disabled homeless population. MaMa Jean’s is a locally owned, full line natural foods market with three locations in Springfield.
Scan to read more
Artemis Overland Hardware-Off Road Accessories
Artemis Overland Hardware established in 2018. Artemis is the goddess of the hunt. We hunt for the perfect vehicle, the rad build, we hunt for peace, hope, love, we hunt for the perfect camp spot, great friends. We hunt for the epic view the biggest campfire but ultimately we are all on The Hunt for Adventure. Artemis has curated the finest adventure gear in one place. Showroom at 1637 E. Olive St. Springfield, MO 65802
Drew Lewis Foundation at The Fairbanks
The mission of the Drew Lewis Foundation is to educate, empower, & support underserved families through personalized programs and coaching to increase quality of life and build resilient communities. Recently they held the 10th Annual fashion show which featured the youth of our RISE program in their new back-to-school outfits. Every child was given a new outfit, two pair of new shoes and school supplies to walk into school with their head held high.
Tailored Banking
Just like a custom suit, our banking services are meticulously designed to fit your unique needs At State Bank, we believe in providing a personalized banking experience, crafted with the same precision and care as a finely tailored suit
Whether you ’ re seeking the perfect account to match your lifestyle, tailored investment advice, or custom loan options, we ’ ve got you covered. Discover the difference that a perfectly fitted banking experience can make.
State Bank of Southwest Missouriwhere every detail counts! “We dress for
Carry only necessary information with you. Leave your social
card and unused credit cards in a safe & secure location!
Tom Fowler III Senior Vice President
STITCHING LEGACY
How One Woman Preserved a Local Icon
ARTICLE BY HUNTER JAZZ
A menswear legacy – John’s Suit Shop has thrived for over five decades, thanks to Viktoriya Solensky.
John’s Suit Shop, originally named after its founder John Chrisman, has been a cornerstone of Springfield’s retail landscape since 1972. For over 16 years, John meticulously curated a collection
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANY TENOWSKI
I always try to remember a great quote by Eleanor Roosevelt -
“Do the thing you think you cannot do.”
that earned the store a loyal clientele. Upon his passing in 1988, his daughter Cassandra and her husband Steve took the reins, steering the business until their retirement at the end of 2016.
As Cassandra & Steve prepared to close the store, fate had other plans. Viktoriya Solenksy, whose extensive background in the apparel industry and unplanned entry into retail breathed new life into John’s Suit Shop. Her profound experience in apparel product development, spanning from Russia to the US, provided a robust foundation. However, the nuances of retail were an entirely new terrain.
Her journey began in Moscow, where she earned a Bachelor’s in Apparel Product Development and a master’s in engineering, Apparel Studies, and Apparel Mass Production from Moscow State University of Design and Technology. She honed her craft in Russia, working with top designers and participating in prestigious fashion weeks. There Solensky worked with
designers, whose collections earned accolades and honorable mentions from icons like famous Spanish fashion designer- Paco Rabanne.
Upon moving to the U.S., Solensky continued her career in the apparel industry, aiding companies in California with product development. Her work contributed to collections sold at major retailers like Costco. She then moved to Bass Pro Shops, where she helped improve garment fits and quality, implementing systems for better communication with overseas factories.
Her passion for fashion and education led her to Missouri State University, where she took on the role of adjunct professor in 2012. Solenksy created comprehensive curriculums for Garment Construction and Adobe Illustrator for fashion designers. Her classes were grounded in real-world insights, preparing students for the complexities of the global apparel industry. She also designed and led an International Study Away Program, taking students to Italy to
explore textile and apparel manufacturing, providing them with firsthand experiences that are invaluable in their professional development.
Taking over JSS in 2017, she faced the unexpected challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic. Store closures and supply chain disruptions tested her resilience. “Adaptation was key,” she explains, reflecting on the shifts in managing inventory and customer expectations. Her experience with overseas production, particularly in navigating cultural nuances, proved invaluable.
Her global exposure influences every decision at JSS. “I prioritize quality over fast fashion,” she asserts, balancing affordability without sacrificing craftsmanship. Unlike typical retail cycles, JSS offers consistent, fair pricing year-round, echoing European retail practices.
Attending seasonal markets keeps her abreast of trends, while her personalized service – from custom suits to special orders – ensures customer satisfaction.
Her passion for fashion is unwavering, even as she juggles the demands of running a business and personal life. “I’m learning to separate work from home,” she admits.
Teaching at MSU allowed Solensky to share realworld insights with students, mentoring future industry leaders. “The apparel industry is saturated; you must find your niche and stand out,” she advises young entrepreneurs. She also mentored a former student who worked for her for two years, providing extensive training in fitting and tailoring and connecting her with industry contacts.
Looking ahead, she aims to maintain JSS’s legacy while exploring custom clothing offerings. Expansion beyond Springfield isn’t in the cards, but her focus on quality and customer satisfaction remains steadfast.
When asked what she is most proud of, Solensky replied, “I am Mom first and then business owner. I am proud of my daughter. She is an A student pursuing the International Baccalaureate program.”
“They are very knowledgeable and professional. They listed our properties and went right to work showing them. One sold in 3 days and the other in 2. They kept us well informed. We had a very positive experience with Rob and Stacey. We will use them again and very soon!”
Eda B.
“I was confident that Rob had the experience to sell my home. And, I was right! I followed his advice and left the rest to him. His communication skills are top-notch. I never felt forgotten to figure things out on my own. Thank you, Rob!!”
Cindy H.
“Our experience with Rob in the sale of our residence was beyond our expectations. Rob was extremely professional, insightful, and efficient in getting our deal across the finish line. We have purchased several properties over the last 25 years and Rob coordinated this sale better than any we have ever done. Rob will be our “Go To” real estate adviser in our future purchases and sales.”
Brian K.
“They are the best! I’ve been buying and selling property with them for 20 years! Many, many thanks to Rob, Stacey and Staff. Again, the BEST!!”
Theresa G.
ARTICLE BY HUNTER JAZZ
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIFFANY ENOWSKI
ELEGANCE IN ADVOCACY
Amy Kern’s Stylish Approach to Health Insurance and Community Care
MEET
AMY KERN
Amy’s career in the insurance industry began when she worked for her dad, Roy Kern, a time marked by personal challenges when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. Despite these difficulties, Amy persevered and eventually began an agency of her own, Kern Insurance Services, LLC in 2008.
Today, Amy’s agency specializes in Medicare and Health in the Marketplace, providing essential services to seniors. The clients that she primarily works with are turning 65 or have Medicare. She helps them to get the best rates and understand all their options.
Jen Hilzendeger, Amy Kern, Bryan Cole
Amy Kern
Amy and her husband, David Stanfield sponsor children in Kenya and Bolivia through Compassion International. In 2016, she founded “Just Kindness,” a volunteer group aiding numerous local organizations. Throughout her career, Amy has been dedicated to the education of her peers and community service.
Together with her husband, who has a background in corporate web security for Home Depot, they also started Tremendicon, a Nonprofit Comic-convention to benefit Ozarks Food Harvest. Tremendicon is a creators focused convention-inspiring writers, artists, and creators of all kinds to take their work to the “next level” in their careers.
WITH OVER 21 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, AMY HAS NAVIGATED THE EVOLVING LANDSCAPE OF INSURANCE.
Amy has a rich history of leadership and community service. She has served as President of both the National Association of Financial Advisors for their Springfield Chapter (NAIFA- Springfield), and I-day, a conference focused on insurance education and industry networking.
As Personal Relations Chair for NAIFA Springfield and NABIB Springfield, she organized blood drives and partnered with the MDA to raise funds for muscular dystrophy. As the owner of Kern Insurance Services, LLC, Amy sponsors various charitable organizations, including the Special Olympics and Habitat for Humanity. She was also part of the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Team for Springfield’s 2020 planning process.
AMY’S COMMITMENT TO HER CLIENTS
She assists with appeals, filing claims, and advocates on their behalf, at no extra cost to them. Her dedication is evident when she hears that a client’s appeal is approved—a moment of triumph for her and her team.
Amy also conducts educational seminars to help seniors and other agents understand Medicare, addressing common misconceptions and ensuring they receive the best options for their needs. Pharmacies often call on her to educate their teams about Medicare terminology.
AMY’S VISION
“I want to empower my clients to make decisions today that will benefit their lives tomorrow.” Her dedication to her clients, the industry and community show her vision to make the world around her a better place.
Open enrollment begins Oct 15th and ends Dec 7th. Get on the schedule today!
TIMELESS STYLE
THE VALUE OF AGE
ARTICLE BY SHEENA STEEDMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA WIGGINS
James now measures his time by the “effects of the effort I put into making a difference,” and does so with style and intentionality.
Meet James Brown—the undeniably cool native San Franciscan (who’s made Utah home for over 30 years)—he doesn’t just bring the style; he IS the style.
Rising by 7 AM each morning, at 78 years young, James springs out of bed with child-like enthusiasm and anticipation for what he’ll discover that day. But most of all, he wakes up on a mission—to make the world a better place and spread more love.
James now measures his time by the “effects of the effort I put into making a difference,” and does so with style and intentionality. Because to him, “The things you do to take care of yourself, whether it’s putting on clean socks or cleaning up your shoes, transfers into your lifestyle and into your brain.”
This is why his morning routine includes dressing to impress and setting himself on the right foot, literally. “I
shine my shoes to this day,” says James. “I had an older gentleman look down, and he said, ‘You shine your shoes. I haven’t seen anybody do that in a hundred years.’ But those are the things I learned when I was a young man that people notice.”
It’s the finer details James prides himself on that make him real a showstopper—not to mention his infectious grin and larger-than-life personality. Giving that extra touch of finesse, James shaves and trims his mustache before Zoom calls, coordinates his shirt color with his socks, wears pinstriped trousers (even when no one can see them on camera), and presses all of his clothes.
“I do these things because I understand that when you do those things, people recognize and identify with you because they understand that it took some effort… People pay attention to your neatness.”
“I think it’s understanding the value of age. Some people don’t understand the value of age because their culture or family doesn’t recognize age as a value.”
Styled by Dillards, photographed at Utah Natural History Musuem
When asking James how he would categorize his style, he says matter-of-factly, “My style has been original, and I don’t find another guy dressing like I dress.”
And original he is—a self-described “contemporary man,” James keeps up with everything from politics to the latest technology; he has his own podcast, a television show, and countless creative projects on the horizon. After any tidbit of conversation with him, it’s clear this is only the beginning.
That said, he’s already led the kind of life most only dream about, adding another notch to his coolness. He’s tied to famous musicians of the ‘60s, having been the coordinator for Sly and the Family Stone, hosting a blues radio station, and being the first black male to report for ABC 4 Utah—and this is only touching the surface.
But even with his unique background, having grown up around artists like Carlos Santana among others in the Bay Area—of which he says, “All of these guys were in the hood, but we paid no attention to it, so it was one wonderful place,”—it paled in comparison to his parents’ legacy.
His mother and father left the biggest impression on him. James calls them “beacons of light.” He fondly remembers his mother cooking mounds of food and inviting people from all walks of life into their home to eat—regardless of where they were from or their orientation.
Continuing his commitment to embracing people of all kinds, James is on a mission to serve the aging population of Utah and beyond. He’s been providing awareness, resources, and support via his television series, Living and Aging with Pride.
In fact, he was recently humbled to receive the 2024 Rocky Mountain Southwest Emmy Award for this very program he’s been pouring his heart and soul into.
When speaking about his initiatives with the aging population, he says, “I think it’s understanding the value of age. Some people don’t understand the value of age because their culture or family doesn’t recognize age as a value. It [age] brings wisdom, knowledge, and experience. And what are the key factors in helping you have a better life? Wisdom, knowledge, and experience.”
Offering his own wisdom, James says, “ I believe that in order for us to be better and do better, we have to embrace loving ourselves and loving our community. Otherwise, you sit in a corner and do nothing. If you love something, you cultivate it, you stimulate it, and you vibrate with it.”
James shows us that style is about so much more than how we look—it’s about being a better person to everyone. And for him, making Livingwithpride.org one of the most useful resources for older adults in the world— “sharing love, giving love.”
Springfield Sister City
Our city shares a vibrant cultural connection with its sister city, Tlaquepaque, Mexico. Located in the state of Jalisco, Tlaquepaque is renowned for its rich artistic heritage, particularly in ceramics, glassblowing, and folk art. This historic city exudes a charming, colorful atmosphere with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling markets filled with handcrafted treasures.
The relationship between Springfield and Tlaquepaque was established in 2003, fostering cultural exchange, economic ties, and mutual understanding. Through this partnership, both cities have celebrated each other’s traditions, with delegations exchanging visits, artisans showcasing their crafts in each city, and culinary festivals introducing residents to each other’s flavors.
This relationship enriches Springfield’s cultural landscape, offering residents a glimpse into the vibrant life of Tlaquepaque, while also allowing Tlaquepaque’s community to experience the warmth and hospitality of Springfield. The bond highlights the power of international friendship in promoting cultural appreciation and global unity.
Tlaquepaque
ARTICLE BY HUNTER JAZZ |
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPRINGFIELD CITY LIFESTYLE
YOUR DRINK DRESS UP
THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS
BOLD COLORS . Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.
ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN
BLUE MARTINI
WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• 2 ounces Absolut Citron
• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao
• 1/2 ounce lemonade
• 1 ounce Sprite
• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums
Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight.
Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.
Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.
FIG + THYME
SPARKLING LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• thyme simple syrup
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 bunch thyme
• 2 fresh figs
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup
• 3/4 ounce Sprite
In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.
For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces premium vodka
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 2 ounces purple shimmery liqueur
• Blackberry vodka
• Moscato wine
• Luster petal dust
• Sugar syrup (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine blackberry vodka, moscato wine and pinch of luster petal dust to make purple shimmery liqueur. Adjust proportions depending on flavor preferences. Add sugar syrup to make it sweeter if desired.
Pour vodka, shimmery liqueur and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Shake well and pour into glass over ice.
PURPLE KISS
PASSION FRUIT
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• 2 tablespoons passion fruit
• 6-8 mint leaves, chopped, plus 2-3 small sprigs
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 ounce club soda
Muddle passion fruit, mint leaves, sugar and lime juice in bottom of glass.
Fill with crushed ice.
Finish with club soda and stir.
Garnish with slice of passion fruit, pineapple and mint sprigs.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS SEPTEMBER 2024
events
SEPTEMBER 9TH
Peter Pan
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield, MO 65806 | 7:00 PM
This high-flying musical has been thrilling audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse, directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price and choreography by Lorin Latarro. This performance is recommended for audiences ages 5+.
SEPTEMBER 12TH
An Evening With: Casting Crowns
Black Oak Amphitheater-1728 State Highway H Lampe, MO 65681 | 7:30 PM
Casting Crowns is a Grammy Award and Dove Award-winning Christian rock band. The band was founded in 1999 by youth pastor Mark Hall. He initially started the band at a church in Downtown Daytona Beach, Florida as part of a youth group, but the band’s popularity has now extended far beyond the reaches of their hometown.
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Brew
at the Zoo
Dickerson Park Zoo 1401 W Norton Rd, Springfield, MO 65803 | 5:00 PM
Brew at the Zoo is an after-hours, 21-or-older event benefiting Friends of the Zoo. Tastings of 50+ beers, street tacos, animal presentations, music, and more. For tickets and more information visit dickersonparkzoo.org
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Cattle Baron’s Ball of Southwest Missouri
Wilson Logistics Arena at The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds | 6:00 PM
Cattle Baron’s Ball of Southwest Missouri has raised over $5.7 million for the fight against cancer. Western themed foods prepared by area’s top Chefs, complimentary drinks, plus desserts. Event’s program will honor those who endured the cancer journey through the Stars of Hope luminary service. Silent and live auctions feature unique experiences and retail packages. Live entertainment, games, fun activities!
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Puttin’ on the Ritz
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway Springfield, MO 65802 | 7:30 PM
Puttin’ on the ritz to kick off the 90th anniversary season with an opening night of musical fireworks, including Rimsky-Korsakov’s triumphant Procession of the Nobles and Grieg’s Piano Concerto, performed by the marvelous Steinway Artist Spencer Myer.
Rimsky-Korsakov – Procession of the Nobles
Grieg – Piano Concerto No. 1 With Spencer Myer, Piano
Shostakovich – Symphony No. 10
SEPTEMBER 21ST
FosterAdopt Connect-Road to Home Gala
The Old Glass Place 521 E. St. Louis Street Springfield, MO 65803 | 6:30 PM
Road to Home- signature annual gala, hosted this year at The Old Glass Place, where they will be raising funds to keep children safe and end child abuse and neglect. Attendees can enjoy entertainment from a local band, enjoy games, outbid their friends in the silent auction, along with food and drinks.
SEPTEMBER 27TH – 28TH
Wilder Days at Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum
Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum 3060 Highway A Mansfield, Missouri 65704
Annual celebration commemorating Laura Ingalls Wilder, America’s favorite pioneer girl, and her cherished Little House books. 9th Annual Fiddle Contest is on Wilder Day. It will be a great day to enjoy fiddle music on the property as well as to hear Pa’s Fiddle played. Historic home & museum are open March 1-November 15.
SEPTEMBER 28TH
Springfield Dream Center’s Dream Dash
Springfield Dream Center | 8:00 AM
5K & 1-Mile Fun Run
Gear up for the Dream Dash 5K, a race with a purpose! Whether you want to walk, jog, or sprint, you’ll support the Springfield Dream Center and provide essential resources for families as they work towards physical and mental stability. You won’t just be running; you’ll be propelling positive change and community empowerment. https://runsignup.com/Race/MO/Springfield/DreamDash
SEPTEMBER 28TH
Parker McCollum Burn It Down Tour
Great Southern Bank Arena 685 S John Q Hammons Pkwy, Springfield, MO 65807 | 7:30 PM
Parker McCollum Burn It Down Tour. Special Guests: Chayce Beckham & Kylie Morgan. Tickets on Sale: Now. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Parking: $20
