Issuu

Kids & Pets

AU G U S T 2 022

KC POOL PROS AND PATIO

C U STOM P O O LS C U STOM D E S IG N S P O O L R E N OVAT IO N S

WITH A FAMILY TOUCH

913-991-3466

W W W. KC PO O L P RO S.COM

Par t nered with f ine line designs & Meg Steen, f inancing options from HFS Financial,

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Letter from the Editor

August 2022 PUBLISHER

Laura Poskie | laura.poskie@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

As summer begins to wind down and the start of school commences, the carefree days of slower morning routines and spending more time adventuring is exchanged for busier school and sport routines and schedules. The summers tend to progressively feel like they fly by the older we get, as do the years, but the simple pleasures of summer never get old. Although the routine of school for our children is often a welcome friend by the time August rolls around, it is generally a little bittersweet. I have four kids ages 19 to 13, and our summers definitely feel busier and shorter the older they get. Our weeks have been jammed packed with baseball tournaments, summer camps, work shifts, outings with friends and family trips. My oldest is getting ready to head back to college, and my second child will begin the start of his senior year of high school. Where has the time gone? Time is moving quickly, so as busy as this summer was for our family, I have learned to enjoy every moment of it and soak it in. My days of sitting at the baseball fields all weekend or driving kids to camps and practices are numbered, and I know I will greatly miss it. As with each new season of life as my children grow and become young adults, I cherish and embrace the new season we are in. Our August issue is dedicated to the cutest members of our community—kids and pets. They both have a way of making us feel special and their loyalty and sense of wonder is refreshing. We wanted to share a few of our favorite ways to enjoy time with our kids and fur-kids. As summer comes to a close, we hope you are able to take some time to relax and spend time with the ones you love.

Angela Broockerd angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Angela Broockerd, Reese Broockerd, Emma Balkenbush, Allison Swan CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ANGEL A BROOCKERD, EDITOR @JOHNSONCOUNT YCIT Y LIFEST Y LE

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E .C O M /J O H N S O N C O U N T Y |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Johnson County City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

10 Introducing Reese Bates

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Local Limelight

Inspired By

Culinary Creations

Expert Help

Our Town

Realty Report

Travel Journal

Taking the volleyball world by storm

14 Backyard Whimsy

creating a kid-friendly backyard space

26 Dog Gone Good Healthy DIY Dog Treats

36 Bar K

Where a dog park and bar and grill collide

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Janie Jones Photography 6

LI FE + C U LT U R E

LI FE + C U LT U R E LI FE + C U LTU R E

EDU CAT I O N

ENT ERTA I NMENT R EA L ESTAT E T R AV EL

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Pedatrics

Dental Implants Invisalign

B a c k to S c h oo l F R E E s po r t s g u a rd s fo r a l l p a t i e n t a t h l e t e s

Dr. Joliff is passionate about building beautiful smiles and great

relationships with his patients. As a member of the American Dental Association, the Kansas Dental Association, and the Academy of

General Dentistry, he regularly pursues continuing education so that he can offer the most up to date procedures and techniques in dentistry.

Dr. Joliff is excited to be your Kansas City area dentist and looks forward to meeting you! Get the smile you’ ve always wanted. Scan the QR code to book an appointment

11 5 5 1 Gran ad a Leawo o d, Kans as 66211 | ( 9 1 3 ) 6 4 2 -3 9 3 9 | w w w. le awo o d .d e n tal

AUGUST 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

LILLEY BARBER

BONNIE MITCHELL

LILLEY BARBER

BONNIE MITCHELL

1-5: Big Slick Celebrity Softball Game. 6: Big Slick Family Feud at Children's Mercy. 7: Big Slick Celebrity Press Conference at Children’s Mercy.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @johnsoncountycitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

Sensational Summer Savings SAVE UP TO $4,000* ON YOUR MOVE NOW THROUGH THE END OF SEPTEMBER

Senior living just got 4,000 times better, because you’ll save up to $4,000 when you move to one of our fabulous Kansas City Anthology communities. Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to enjoy a remarkable lifestyle filled with friendship, delicious chef-prepared dining and endless social activities – at an incredible SAVINGS! *Valid through 9/30/22. Other terms and conditions may apply.

SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR TODAY CONTINUE YOUR LIFE STORY WITH US A N T H O L O G Y O F O V E R L A N D PA R K

A N T H O L O G Y O F O L AT H E

10300 I N D I A N C R E E K P K W Y. O V E R L A N D PA R K , K S ASSISTED LIVING / MEMORY CARE

101 W. 151 S T S T. / O L AT H E , K S INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING / MEMORY CARE

913-349-7049

913-254-3405

AnthologyKansasCity.com

O V E R L A N D PA R K

O L AT H E

Introducing Reese Bates

Volleyball player inspires athletes all over the world

ARTICLE BY EMMA BALKENBUSH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

Reese Bates, an upcoming senior at Blue Valley Southwest High School, is taking the volleyball world by storm. The longtime lover of the sport is inspiring athletes all over the world all while making her dreams a reality. Reese has had a deep love for volleyball since she was 8 years old. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced athletes all over the world to stop doing the sports they loved, Reese was only getting started. Not only did she continue her workouts and drills at home, she decided to share her determination with others. She created an Instagram and Twitter account with the sole purpose of sharing volleyball content. “I thought, I’m already doing these drills and workouts so why not video them and put them out there to try and inspire other people during that tough time when there was nothing going on,” Reese says. Reese refused to let anything stop her from getting in realistic workouts and drills. She got creative using items around the house, such as a half Bosu ball she flips over to work on balance. Her dad helped her create a board on top of a foam roller using an old mirror. “It’s great for me to do the drills, and people seem to love it,” Reese says. “They love new challenges, and just being able to inspire people every day still is just amazing.” When Reese started her inspiring video content creation, she had no idea just how much it would blow up. Collectively on Instagram and Twitter, she has more than 15,000 followers. “I had no idea it would come this far. Some of my views on Instagram have still been blowing up from last year,” Reese adds. Reese says the most rewarding part of her work are the comments people send.

“I’ve heard from several college coaches and just random people who say ‘I don’t know if you know how much you’ve inspired people and helped them through COVID,’” Reese says. Because of her powerful work in the world of volleyball, Reese caught the attention of the Federation of International Volleyball who reposted many of her videos. She received a message on Instagram asking if she’d be interested in interviewing U.S. Beach National Team member Kerri Walsh Jennings, one of her longtime volleyball idols. Walsh and her husband, Casey Jennings, invited Reese to attend a clinic in Reno, Nevada where she was able to learn from them and meet their Olympic coaches and nutritionists. “They are just the sweetest people I’ve ever met,” Reese says. “We did an activity at the end where we wrote something inspirational on a volleyball, and I wrote ‘2028’ because that’s the year I want to play in the Olympics, and she wrote, ‘I’ll see you there’ next to it.” Reese says she owes her success and accomplishments to her parents, who show their constant love and support. “They are the best I could ask for,” she says. “They wake up to me pounding balls against the garage wall, which you can hear in the whole house. They just love me so much, and I love them.” Reese is already on her way to achieving her dreams. She’s committed to playing Division I Indoor and Beach Volleyball at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama. Her goal for her final year at Blue Valley Southwest is to make it to the State Championship, which the school has never done for volleyball. She wants to encourage young kids who are just getting started in a sport to push through all of the challenges and keep moving forward.

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Managing Market Volatility at Every Age By Marc C. Shaffer, CFP®, AIF®, EA

CFO at Searcy Financial Services, a Fee-Only, NAPFA Registered Advisory Firm

While financial market volatility can be stressful for people of all ages, the implications of a bear market generally mean different things for different life stages. In Your 20s & 30s- Prioritize Saving. You’ll probably see several periods of volatility in your lifetime. One goal at this age is to save as much as you can and invest for your future. Build your emergency fund, meet or exceed your employer 401(k) match, and create individual accounts as needed. Now is a good time to create a budget, develop savings goals and perhaps reevaluate upcoming major purchases. Are you saving and investing in order to benefit financially in the future, or spending on things that put you further from your goals? In your 30s, keep saving, and get specific. If you plan on having children, consider setting up a 529 Plan to save for education. If your risk tolerance allows, you may choose to be riskier in these decades because you have more time to weather volatility. In Your 40s - Prioritize Cash Flow. If your career is going well, you may experience lifestyle creep, where you make more money but spend more, never really getting ahead. Increase your saving and investment buckets by paying yourself first, then allocating the remainder of the funds to different buckets. Keep an eye on retirement funding. In your 50s - Prioritize Your Goals & Future. You may want to help your children with college, a down payment on a home or a wedding, but will those expenses impact your goals negatively? The less time you have before retirement, the more you might want to tighten the purse strings and get your affairs in line for a successful future. Over this decade,

you will have less time to recover from major financial setbacks.

Don’t forget that catch up contributions start at age 50. If you want to save more for retirement, you can utilize this valuable tool. In Your 60s and into Retirement - Prioritize Wealth Preservation. For most, now is not the time to be risky. Your nest egg should get you through the end of life, which could be 20 or more years. Can you delay Social Security benefits? Can you be strategic with your spending? Should you process annual Roth conversions? Every move to preserve your wealth can be meaningful. You will also want to manage your withdrawals and probably keep more cash on hand. This is a critical age for managing your finances through volatility. Having a solid plan created with your goals and risk tolerance in mind is helpful at every age. Ups and downs are going to occur. It’s a natural and even healthy component of investing, but a plan can help guide you through the journey. If you don’t have someone looking over your finances, or reminding you to turn off the news, now might be a beneficial time to get a team in place. The constant worry will do nothing for your sleep, your stress, or your peace of mind.

913.814.3800 | www.searcyfinancial.com | Where You Stand.®

B A C K YA R D WHIMSY

Creating a kid-friendly backyard space ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

This adorable outdoor play space is not only easy and inexpensive to build, but it is full of charm and the perfect spot for the kids to play and lounge. The A-frame structure is easily customizable to any style and color scheme desired. Leave the wood bare, or add flare with paint or stain. An outdoor clubhouse provides a space that allows kids to make it their own and to let their imaginations run wild spending time outdoors. For this project, we visited Home Depot at Olathe Pointe to get all the necessary supplies we needed. The deck is an 8 x 10 decking so there is no need to cut down the length of any boards and pressure treated wood was used. First, dig holes 18 inches down to put the footers, which is a 4 x 4 x 8 treated post, and cut those into two foot lengths . Next, pour quick set concrete in the holes. Add water, and set the posts in and let it dry. We used lag screws to attach the base 2 x 10’s to the corner posts, and then 2 x 6’s for the joists with metal hangers. Now time to put on the decking boards with exterior screws. Don’t forget to constantly check with a level. Once the decking is finished, now it is time for the fun!

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

For the A frame you need a 60-degree angle at the top of the A, and a 30-degree angle at the bottom. You can run a 4 x 4 along the decking to attach the A frame to which adds a bit of height so adults can stand in it as well. Use heavy duty exterior screws to attach the A frame 2 x 4’s to the structure. The top of the A comes together and is held by exterior screws. For the roofing, we used 8-foot corrugated clear panels and screwed those into the A frame for a weather protecting cover. We left three feet uncovered so a chair and some pots with herbs and flowers could be added to the entrance. Decorate with outdoor pillows, a children’s table, outdoor rug and hanging flower pots to make it feel like a special place for kids to go. If entertaining friends, a few simple charcuterie boards are always a hit.

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

SHOOT CREDITS: • Supplies from Home Depot at Olathe Pointe • Clubhouse built by Janie Jones • Models: Blythe Schowengerdt, Addie Schowengerdt, Ezra Chamberlin • Styled by Angela Broockerd and Janie Jones • Charcuterie boards by Angela Broockerd • Food: Whole Foods • Milk: Shatto • Floor pillows: Target • Plants and hanging macrame holders: Family Tree Nursery • Wooden Basket: IKEA • For all your needed supplies visit Home Depot at 20025 W 154th St, Olathe. homedepot.com/l/Olathe/KS/Olathe/66062/2201

Sell Your Home, Keep Your Privacy Listing your home as a Private Exclusive allows you to control what information is shared about you and your most personal asset — your home — while still getting exposure to top Compass agents across the country. Contact me today to sell your home as a Private Exclusive. THE HALEY EPPS TEAM HALEYEPPSTEAM.COM 913.558.5958 haley.epps@compass.com 5440 W 110th St Suite 300, Overland Park, KS 66211 Office: (913) 382-6711

The Haley Epps Team is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass Realty Group, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

FREE ESTIMATES

Services Tree Removal Tree Trimming Landscaping Arborist Stump Removal

REVIEW US ONLINE

Call or Visit

816-500-2378 | www.shierfamilytreenow.com

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Create Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen Design & Installation

kc grilling co

goodwin outdoors

has the finest in outdoor kitchen products, including: blaze hestan outlaw smokers smokin brothers & more

built-in grills smokers refrigerators kegerators & More

913-626-4264

Jmgoodwin10@yahoo.com

the finest outdoor kitchens in kansas city kc grilling company and goodwin outdoors have all of the tools to create your dream outdoor kitchen

913-393-1506 KCGrillingco.com @kcgrillingco BA 16509 W 159th Terr, Olathe, KS

CUSTOM FABRICATION

CERTIFIED APPRAISALS

SPECIALIZING IN THE RESTORATION AND SALE OF VINTAGE AND ANTIQUE JEWELRY AND WATCHES This trusted family business offers a thoughtfully curated selection of antique and vintage jewelry as well as distinguished pieces for the astute collector. Their knowledgeable staff will provide you with the personal assistance that is their hallmark. 7635 Quivira Rd., Shawnee, KS 66216 (913) 278-1950 | Mon 11-6, Thur-Sat 11-6, Sun 1-6

www.jeweledlegacy.com

www.LotusYogaKC.com “I felt sooo good after my first class!”

2 WEEKS UNLIMITED

Online or In-Studio (Socially Distanced) *New Clients Only, No Enrollment Fees

YOGA 913.217.7153

14872 Metcalf Ave | Overland Park, Kansas

Release trapped emotions; Don’t just talk about them. Schedule a session with an emotion coach at LotusYogaKC.com

David LLoyd, CECP

Certified Emotion Code Practitioner

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

DOG gone

GOOD

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | LI F E + CULTURE

Healthy DIY Dog Treats ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

Birthday Cake for Your Pup INGREDIENTS: • 1 egg • 4 tablespoons peanut butter • 1/2 cup apple, finely chopped • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Peanut Butter Dog Treats INGREDIENTS: • 2/3 cup pumpkin puree • 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter • 2 eggs • 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly kneed. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls INGREDIENTS: • 1 cup pumpkin puree • 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter • 1/4 cup milk or half and half • 3 cups oatmeal DIRECTIONS: In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | LI F E + CULTURE

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

O N the B O O K S H E L F ARTICLE BY REESE BROOCKERD

Hello, I’m Reese Broockerd, a high school senior with a passion for reading fantasy and suspense novels. Growing up, my mom always encouraged me to read, and my passion started with the Cam Jansen mystery novels she bought for me. Reading has always had a calming effect on me, and I find it relaxing to get completely immersed in another world. These are my top five books that I would recommend for high schoolers. Each one of these books deepened my passion for reading, and I found myself getting completely lost in their worlds. I hope that you will like them just as much as I did.

EXP E RT H E LP | ED U CATION

ELEANOR & PARK

T H RON E OF GL AS S

BY R A I N B OW R OWE L L

BY SARAH J. MAAS

Eleanor Douglas is a 16-year-old, red headed girl, who has recently transferred to a new high school. She quickly feels like an outcast due to her appearance. Eleanor finds an unlikely ally in Park Sheridan, an Asian American student who feels out of place due to his heritage. Transferring to a new high school is not Eleanor’s only problem. Her family struggles with poverty, and her abusive stepfather Richie makes matters worse. Eleanor & Park is a coming of age story that has a realistic take on first love and overcoming life's most difficult challenges.

Celaena Sardothien is a skilled assassin, who ended up enslaved in the Salt Mines of Endovier. Most enslaved people do not survive a month, but Celaena has lasted over a year. In order to win her freedom, Prince Dorian asked that she compete as his champion in the King’s Tournament. While she is competing, the story takes an unexpected turn which changes the course of her life and the direction of the kingdom. If you like action and suspense, Throne of Glass is a captivating story that you will not be able to put down. CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

THE RAVEN BOYS BY MAGGIE STIE FVATE R

Gansey and his friends are on a mission to find a king that is buried along the ley line in Henrietta, Virginia. If they wake him from his rest they will all be granted one wish. Each friend has a desperate need to have a wish fulfilled. Blue Sargent’s knowledge of magic helps these characters avoid trouble along the way. Something she isn’t telling them is, Gansey’s death is quickly approaching. The Raven Boys is a story of eternal friendship and a strange magic that would be perfect for younger teens.

EXP E RT H E LP | ED U CATION

CITY OF THE LOST

CLO CK WOR K A NGEL

BY K E L LY A R M ST R O N G

BY CAS SAN D RA CL ARE

Trying to escape her past, Casey Duncan and her friend Diana are looking for an off-the-grid type of place. Rockton, a town located in the forests of Canada is just what they need. Acceptance into Rockton will not be easy. Luckily for Casey, they are in need of a detective with her type of investigative skills. Rockton has experienced its first murder and with each passing day, more and more people are winding up dead. City of the Lost is a gripping story that is fast paced and full of twists.

Tessa Gray travels to live with her brother in Victorian England where she is immediately kidnapped. While captured, she learns that she possesses the ability to morph into other beings. Her captors want to harness this power for evil. Eventually, she is rescued and taken in by the Shadowhunters, warriors that protect the world from demons and other dark magic. Tessa finds herself locked into a love triangle between two best friends, one gentle and one with a strange secret. Clockwork Angel is a fantasy trilogy that has characters you will fall in love with and won’t stop thinking about.

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

S ee senior living in a whole new light.

To learn more about our senior living community in Olathe, call (913) 780-9916

Scott Hefner

Executive Vice President & Principal

For all your employee benefits and business insurance needs Main: 913.345.0440 Direct: 913.396.0860 Mobile: 913.980.9931 Fax: 913.345.2608 shefner@bukaty.com www.bukaty.com

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

4601 College Boulevard, Suite 100 Leawood, Kansas 66211

Serving you with the truth, dignity, and always going the extra mile

CUSTOM PAINTING ALL THINGS METAL (OLD AND NEW)

HAS YOUR HIGH QUALITY PATIO FURNITURE SEEN BETTER DAYS? RENEW IT TODAY!

913.957.9057

TOMSHAW.REALTOR TOMSHAW809@GMAIL.COM 15280 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS

DO YOU REALLY HAVE TO CHOOSE? Franchising with us means making money and time for your life.

R IM S L IF T KITS

B E YOU R OW N B OS S

SE T YOUR SCHE DULE

LOW F RANCHISE F E E

WO R K-L IF E BA L A NCE

FU R N I TU RE A N D M O RE !

913.585.4019 @PerrysPowderCoating

START YOUR OWN PUBLICATION CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/FRANCHISE

2021 E Spr u ce C ir, Un it A , Ola t h e , Ka n sa s 6 6 0 6 2 AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

O UR TOWN | ENTERTA INME NT

BAR K BAR MEETS DOG PARK Bar meets dog park at Bar K, a unique environment bringing people and dogs together to share a fun outing in Kansas City. Co-founders David Hensley and Leib Dodell created Bar K because nothing like it existed. “I grew up in a small town in Kansas,” David says. “Dogs were always a part of our family, but it was different back then—dogs spent most of their time in the backyard and rarely left the home. Now, it’s common to see a dog in the passenger seat of a car or walking around the hardware store with their owner. I spent most of my 20’s working in pharmaceutical sales and my 30’s working on my own business. Fast forward to about 10 years ago, in what could only be described as a synchronistic moment. “My business partner and I had picked up our dogs on exactly the same weekend. At the time we were both very socially active, often going out to dinner or grabbing drinks with friends. We started trying to bring our dogs with us to bars and restaurants, coffee shops, basically everywhere. When you do that, you start to find that it’s usually not a great experience for the dogs—they’re leashed up next to your table wanting to play. Then you go to dog parks, but that really isn’t the greatest experience for the humans, and they can be hit or miss as there is no one there to manage the play. That’s when we thought, why don’t we build out a community meeting place that combines a dog park with a bar, restaurant and event space?”

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

David sums up the experience in just one word. “Joy! It’s hard not to have a smile on your face when you look around and see all of the dogs having such a great time. Also, you don’t have to bring a dog to experience that joy. We get tons of people who come without dogs.” Those without a dog can enter for free. To bring your dog, you must either have a membership, which offers unlimited access and specials every day of the week, or purchase a guest pass for $10 on weekdays and $15 on weekends, with an additional $5 for each extra dog in your pack. Trained Bar K “Dogtenders” supervise dogs in their multiple spacious dog parks for both large and small dogs. Bar K features fresh, locally and ethically sourced food and drink for both you and your pup. Their healthy casual menu includes appetizers and snacks, sandwiches, salads, and bowls, which are their most popular item on the menu. Bowls are made with seasoned cilantro white rice, diced tomato, toasted farro, marinated pinto beans, red onion, queso fresco, fresh lime, and your choice of grilled steak, chicken, or portobello mushrooms. Their cocktails have fun names like Spicy Pineapple Papillon, Dog Paddle, Tail Chaser, Mastiff Mimosa, and Gin-tle Labender Lemonade. “You can’t go wrong with the Good Boy Punch made with J. Rieger Whiskey, Plantation Dark Rum, grapefruit, allspice, Tiki Bitters and green tea.”

CONTINUED >

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Let your dog in on the fun with their “for the pups” menu including beef stew, chicken risotto, turkey and sweet potato meatballs, and turkey bacon jerky. Dessert features fresh baked cookies, doggie ice cream, and celebration cakes from Three Dog Bakery, and beer paws whiskey biscuits from J. Rieger whiskey grains. It doesn’t stop there—there’s even Beer Paws Craft Beer and Dog Wine from Pet Winery! David says his favorite part of owning a dog park and bar is the community building that organically happens around the common love for dogs. “Truly, what’s a better ice breaker than a dog?! I think we can all agree that we’re living in a time when there are so many polarizing elements and reasons for people to disagree. Dogs are great in that they give an opportunity to break down barriers to conversation and allow people to find commonality. It’s nice to be reminded that we don’t disagree as much as we’re often made to think.” There’s no better time than summer to visit Bar K. “We have a regular slate of live musicians playing on our stage, and yes, the dogs are welcome to take the stage! Additionally, whether you have a dog or not, Puppies’ Night Out every Thursday is a fantastic time to come check the place out.” Bar K has locations in Kansas City and St. Louis, with Oklahoma City opening at the end of the year and plans to open five other cities within the coming years. For more information, visit barkdogbar.com.

O UR TOWN | ENTERTA INME NT

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

AUGUST 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Johnson County. N E I G H B O RH O O D

LIST PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

HALLBROOK FARMS

$2,865,000

100%

7.2

HALLBROOK FARMS

$3,250,000

$2,700,000

83%

4.3

LIONSGATE-THE LINKS

$2,500,000

$2,320,000

92%

5.2

TOMAHAWK FARMS

$1,995,000

100%

4.1

MILLS RANCH

$2,150,000

$1,925,000

89%

5.1

MISSION HILLS

$1,999,000

$1,900,000

95%

195

MILLS FARM

$1,850,000

$1,865,000

100%

100

5.1

HALLBROOK FARMS

$1,650,000

$1,785,000

108%

4.3

HIGHLANDS CREEK

$1,650,000

$1,755,000

106%

5.2

LEAWOOD FOREST ESTATES

$1,075,000

$1,275,001

116%

4.1

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers. STATISTICS from JUNE 1 TO JUNE 30 2022. * DOM=Days on Market

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | R EAL E STATE

Fall Harvest Open House The Royal MerchantOverland Park, Kansas

Just like the rustling fall leaves, Autumn will gently roll in before we are ready to bid farewell to the summer sun. Make plans now to greet the crisp nights, bonfires and fall gatherings in style! The Royal Merchant will offer a Fall Open House August 27th at Glenwood Antique Mall, 10am-6pm. 660.460.1003 theroyalmerchant95@gmail.com TheRoyal Merchant II Located in Glenwood Antique Mall 9030 Metcalf Avenue Overland Park, KS 66212

Sun. - Wed: 10AM - 6PM Thurs. - Sat: 10AM - 7PM

Join us for lovely fall décor, wreaths and other florals, gourds and pumpkins like you’ve never seen, fall water globes, Halloween figurines, cozy linens, Doc Frog Pottery and of course one-of-kind antique furniture treasures. Delicious Treats and Door Prizes await you at the Royal Merchant’s Fall Harvest, because everyone deserves to live graciously.

Special Fall Give-Away

For all who attend and bring this ad!

I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH JOHNSON COUNTY CITY LIFESTYLE™ LEARN MORE AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/JOHNSONCOUNTY

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/J OH N S O N C O UN T Y

Laguna Beach

Visit

Why This Quintessential California Colony Should Be Your Next Travel Destination!

There’s a reason people visit the southern California coastal city of Laguna Beach an average of five times in their lifetime. From its stunning ocean side bluffs overlooking 30 Pacific Ocean beaches and coves to its fusion of beautiful canyon wilderness with tranquil ocean life, fresh-ingredients cuisine and eclectic arts culture, Laguna Beach is a time-honored destination full of vibrant and invigorating seaside experiences. This month, our City Lifestyle community of luxury travel enthusiasts are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Laguna Beach to present a breathtaking view into this idyllic West Coast artist community. Plus, together, we have created an exclusive GIVEAWAY opportunity to win a 2-night trip for two. Get ready to experience the upscale and creative culture alongside the lively, yet quirky personality of Laguna Beach!

WIN a 2-night GETAWAY to Laguna Beach! City Lifestyle and Visit Laguna Beach are giving one lucky winner and a guest the chance to explore Laguna Beach, CA with the ultimate Southern California escape encompassing scenic canyon and seaside views, fresh chef-driven cuisine and local recreation. This giveaway closes on August 31, 2022. This trip must be taken by August 31, 2023. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @visitlaguna on Instagram and tag friends and family on the August 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

$2,300 LAGUNA BEACH GETAWAY FOR 2 INCLUDES: • • • • • •

2 nights at The Ranch at Laguna Beach Breakfast at Harvest Tickets to The Laguna Playhouse Guided Kayaking Tour with Laguna Ethos Tickets to Laguna Art Museum $200 Visa Gift Card for Dining T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Scan the code to ENTER to WIN at @citylifestyle on Instagram!

105%

PRICE MATCH

Indoor & Outdoor Living

GUARANTEE!

OUTDOOR FURNITURE SALE LARGEST INVENTORY, LOWEST PRICES

THE BIGGEST SELECTION IN THE KANSAS CITY AREA

SECTIONAL SEATING

DINING

DEEP SEATING

Barnhouse is a family-owned design + build company focused on new construction- from traditional stick-built or modified timber frame homes to pre-engineered steel or pole barn structures. Specializing in modern farm homes, Barnhouse harvests old barns to utilize reclaimed timbers and barn board to provide an enriching contemporary country feel. After building a foundation on open communication and honesty, Barnhouse helps bring visions to life.

Gardn er Leaver I 913.777. 8766 (cell) gardn er@barnh ousedesigns.com