Every summer our family creates a list of activities that we want to do over the break. Invariably, a visit to cousins that live out of state always makes the list. I love that they still place high priority on visiting their extended family and that they have created bonds with cousins that will be lifelong friends.
Some of my favorite childhood memories involve spending summer weekends with cousins at our family lake house. Our lake weekends were filled with swimming, boating, playing volleyball and croquet, sitting around a campfire sharing stories and playing charades. Those summers spent at the lake are some of my most cherished memories.
Still to this day, when I see my cousins we reminisce about those long summer days that we spent at the lake during our childhood. I am so thankful for those times, and it is a good reminder for me that sometimes the simplest moments that hold the most meaning.
For our summer issue, we wanted to share some of our favorite local activities to do around Kansas City. Mindy from @KansasCityBucketlist has you covered for the perfect curated list of fun for adults or family-friendly summer fun. Don’t forget to hit up the Overland Park Farmer’s Market this summer. They were recently voted one of the best farmers markets in the country, and after a visit to the market, you won’t be surprised they have earned that ranking.
I hope your summer is filled with moments of relaxation, fun and quality time that creates cherished memories.
July 2023
PUBLISHER
Cristine Lindholm | cristine.lindholm@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Lisa Moyer, Mindy Hargesheimer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @LEAWOODCITYLIFESTYLE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
MD
“ The rapid growth we are experiencing has necessitated more space for current employees, as well as for the significant number we anticipate adding over the next few years. We believe Airshare is one of the best places to work in Kansas City, and our new office at Aspiria will enhance our efforts to attract and retain the best talent in private aviation.”
John Owen President and CEO Airshare
Want
Town Center Plaza will once again host the Leawood Chamber’s A Taste of Leawood event on Friday, October 6th, 2023. This year’s event is in celebration of the City of Leawood’s 75th Anniversary and will kick off their weekend of festivities. Admission includes 3 drink tickets, unlimited food tastings from participating restaurants, live music, a souvenir wine glass, and more. Tickets go on sale beginning July 10 (only 1,500 available). Visit leawoodchamber.org to learn more!
J.Mullin Apparel, Kansas City-based maker of distinctive one-of-a-kind kimonos and scarves, is now being carried exclusively in Kansas City by Trapp and Company at 4110 Main Street. For 50 years, Trapp and Company have been a purveyor of style with its stunning floral arrangements, lavish events and elegant home décor. The company’s emerging focus on fashion is a bold new expression of its impeccable taste and vision.
Liquid Mobile, formerly Liquid Mobile IV, is revolutionizing access to health and wellness by expanding offerings and changing its name to better represent a commitment to providing groundbreaking access to wholebody wellness. The Kansas-City based company is launching new services straight to consumers’ doorsteps via mobile nurses, telehealth and clinic, including labs, medical weight loss, Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, telehealth and IV hydration.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Leawood
Elevate your next meal with hand-crafted comfort foods made with a modern twist. Discover a new level of taste.
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WINE
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
The Overland Park Farmers’ Market in Downtown Overland Park is a beloved destination that has been fostering community pride for over four decades. Known for its farm-to-table food, fresh produce, and diverse vendors, it has earned its reputation as one of the best farmers’ markets in the nation.
Kristina Stanley, the farmers’ market manager, has played a pivotal role in transforming the market into a nationally-recognized success.
“I am an Overland Park native proud to live in and work for the City of Overland Park,” says Stanley. “In 2011, I was honored to take on the responsibility of operations oversight of this long-standing community gathering place where people seek all things local—fresh produce, artisan products, events and entertainment. It has been a privilege to serve my community and the City of Overland Park while making a difference in people’s lives.”
Under Stanley’s leadership, the market has implemented innovative marketing strategies and launched successful campaigns including “Eat A Rainbow Everyday,” “Buy Ugly Produce,” “Savor the Season,” and “BYOB: Bring Your Own Bag and Bottle.” The market has also formed community-based partnerships and expanded its presence on social media.
“The Farmers’ Market began 41 years ago in 1982. A group of local Downtown OP merchants wanted to bring more people to Downtown OP. The city took over
the operation in 2011 from a management group, and I have overseen the operations since then. Our innovative marketing strategies set us apart from other markets and elevated the local farmers’ market industry. We were among the very first markets in the country to require transparency in product labeling. My team and I have worked to foster and cultivate nearly a dozen community-based partnerships. We expanded the social media platforms, which was a huge reason for our win.”
The market’s commitment to inclusivity and belonging has created a culture where vendors and staff see each other as family, not competition. This sense of community has contributed to the market’s success and attracts vendors who want to be a part of this unique environment.
“Once the market culture improved, weekly attendance and interest from patrons visiting the Downtown Overland Park area blossomed. Many of Kansas City’s top chefs shop at this market to aid in the creation of seasonal dishes throughout the KC metropolitan area. Community, conservation and a healthy lifestyle begin here, and this market has forever shaped a new Downtown Overland Park.”
With over 100 vendors speaking 28 different languages, the market celebrates remarkable diversity. Visitors can explore a variety of offerings, including flowers, home goods, composting, skincare products, artisanal items and foods catering to various dietary needs.
“Bringing more awareness to all of the goods you can get at the OPFM is so important as most people think of it as just fruits and veggies, yet we offer so much more. Many also think of farmers’ markets as a summer activity versus a lifestyle of supporting local. Many don’t realize we open mid April and don’t close until early December, or that some vendors sell year-round. Market days are work days for vendors—this is their livelihood. Having more patrons shop all season long would greatly benefit the vendors, especially in the spring and fall when it’s always a bit slower compared to summer months. Teaching people to eat seasonally takes time and effort.”
CONTINUED >
“PEOPLE LOVE THIS MARKET AND RECOGNIZE THE VALUE WE OFFER THIS COMMUNITY.”
The Overland Park Farmers’ Market enters the prestigious American Farmland Trust Contest each year, which highlights the important role farmers’ markets play in communities across the nation while celebrating the farmers, staff and volunteers that make it happen. They received the highest number of votes among the 7,000 participating markets nationwide, winning first place.
“It is an honor and privilege to win America’s Favorite Market. It is an award that I’m proud to say is truly a community award. Market staff and more than 100 vendors serve this community making a difference in people’s lives every week. People love this market and recognize the value we offer this community. Downtown OP has become a destination spot that offers unique experiences and a hot spot for people to live, work and play. The Overland Park Farmers’ Market is the focal point and heart of this vibrant and diverse neighborhood where all are welcome—it has an exceptional reputation with a commitment to its mission, vision and core values. Staying true to this behind the scenes is the product of an excellent market with passionate vendors, loyal shoppers and dedicated staff.”
Welcoming 200,000 visitors annually, the 2023 season brings exciting improvements, including an expanded layout, additional space between stalls, ample parking, and nearby restrooms, all aimed at enhancing the shopping experience. The Overland Park Farmers’ Market is located at 7950 Marty Street and is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Wine
Come visit a local farm winery and Johnson County’s newest coffee tasting room, vineyard and wedding venue at Serendipity Farm & Vine in Stilwell, Kansas! We have accommodations to stay on property too!
913.488.0811
serendipityfarmandvine.com
reservations@ serendipityfarmandvine.com
4674
Check out KC-native Taylor K Phillips’ Hilarious Guide to Midwestern Conversation
ARTICLE BY MINDY HARGESHEIMER“Ope!” “Well, hey, stranger!” “You betcha!” Whether you are Kansas or Missouri bornand-bred who naturally speaks the everyday language, or a transplant into either side of State Line Rd who adopted “She’s a character!” “DANG It!” and “Jeez Louise!” into your slang, welcome to the art of our chitchat, or as author Taylor Kay Phillips wrapped into the perfect 137 pages of coffee table comedic bliss: A Guide to Midwestern Conversation!
“Kansas City, I made this for you.”
South Kansas City native, Taylor Kay Phillips, spent years, miles, and countless conversations curating this perfectly amusing guide that breaks down the pertinent pieces of being a Midwestern conversationalist; from the basics of our favorite spoken expressions to how we talk about the weather, parent our children, host a house party, and so much more.
Sporting her beloved Charlie Hustle KC heart tee during our KC --> NYC virtual meet-and-greet, Taylor and I talked about how “Coasties” generally perceive residents
from the twelve states designated as “The Midwest,” honing in on our respective home states that boast the now nationally renowned Chiefs, Kansas City-style barbeque, and the infamous KC heart that have people asking more and more about this soon-no-longerto-be hidden metropolitan gem.
An Emmy-award winning writer and comedian now living in NYC and writing for Last Week
Tonight with John Oliver on HBO, Taylor was a competitive basketball player and graduate of The Barstow School, a member of The Coterie Theater and Young Playwrights’ Roundtable, and is a Harvard University graduate who hasn’t come close to forgetting her Midwest roots.
She has taken her incredible context on how the non-Midwestern folk view us Midwesterners and funneled her comedic creativity into the perfect gift and home decor accessory that will have you cackling. It will also have you asking yourself what classic Midwestern sentiments you are operating on, whether you realize it being a part of your everyday routine or not.
“The Midwest is amping itself up.”
“One of the biggest reactions I have gotten which I think is really sweet is people clinging to their Midwestern cred in some way. Even if the person is from New York, they’ll say ‘oh my aunt lives in Indiana, or my wife is from Kansas, and that kind of stuff is new for me as a Midwestern, to have people wanting to claim a connection to the Midwest, and it’s something that feels really good to have people wanting to identify with it. The Midwest is amping itself up.”
“Get Outta Town!”
Within, you’ll find A Guide to Midwestern Cursing that will have you either outwardly expressing or inwardly blushing: “Oh, for crying out loud.” (see page 16 for the real asterisk-sporting translation!)
“That kid is special.”
The infatuation with the competitive nature of our Midwestern Youth Athlete is enough to drain your bank account at Dick’s Sporting Goods and making it difficult to remember that for most, it’s just a game.
“It’s not so bad without the wind.”
We love our four seasons just as much as we hate the central tenet of their existence that makes each season what they are. But, what it really boils down to is… are you watching the tornado from the front window or the basement window?
“Well, I won’t keep ya.”
Good luck gettin’ out the door amongst The Midwestern Goodbye.
Looking for a great and local gift idea? This book! Find the Kansas and Missouri state profiles boasting fun facts and claims to fame. And as for the rest of the landlocked hilarity? Welp, you’ll just have to snag your own copy for your next family get together, book club, and clever house-warming gift idea!
Shop Taylor’s book locally with Made in KC in partnership with Rainy Day Books in Fairway as well as Monarch Books & Gifts in Overland Park, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.
Interested in where Taylor “used to” and “will now’ hang out around town? These are her favorite throwback + modern-day KC experiences she recommends:
• Starlight Theatre
• Blue Chip Cookies & Ice Cream
• Jack Stack Barbecue in Martin City
• Thou Mayest River Quay
• The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
• The Bird Comedy Theater
• John’s Big Deck
• Percheron Rooftop Bar at Crossroads Hotel
• Cafe Ca Phe
Experience Kansas City inside and out this summer with some local favorites and hidden gems. Whether it’s kid-friendly you’re seeking or an adults-night out, here are my recommendations for making this your best summer yet!
KANSAS CITY CURRENT SOCCER MATCH
kansascitycurrent.com
Children’s Mercy Park, KCK
Cheer on Kansas City’s Professional Women’s Soccer Club.
LAKE JACOMO
makeyourdayhere.com/Parks-Lakes/Lake-Jacomo Fleming Park, Blue Springs
970-acre lake located in one of Jackson County Parks + Rec’s premier recreational areas with sailboat regattas, pontoon boats, and additional watercraft rentals.
CRAFTPUTT INDOOR MINIATURE GOLF
craftputt.com
135th and Quivira, Overland Park
10 hole indoor miniature golf serving 24 local KC craft beers, handcrafted cocktails and golf-themed games.
POWELL GARDENS
powellgardens.org
1609 NW US Hwy 50, Kingsville
Botanical Garden filled with themed display gardens, a threemile nature trail, seasonal festivals, rotating exhibitions, and exceptional architecture.
30 Fun Things to Do This Season: Adult and Kid-Friendly Activities
Nelson Art Course
Prairie Fire
KC Wine Co.
KC Current
Electric Garden
WW1 Museum
Powell Gardens
FAMILY FUNDAY SUNDAY AT KAUFFMAN STADIUM
mlb.com/royals/tickets/specials/funday-sunday
1 Royal Way, KCMO
On Sundays, get 4 tickets, 4 hotdogs, 4 sodas, and a parking pass, choosing either View Reserved for $50 or Field Plaza seating for $100, plus take advantage of all kids’ stadium activities as well as kids 14 and under can run the bases for FREE after the game.
LAKE OLATHE PARK
olatheks.gov/government/parks-recreation/ parks-trails-bike-lanes/parks/lake-olathe-park
191 N. Ward Cliff Dr., Olathe
170-acre lake surrounded by a 258-acre community park, swim beach, and a floating obstacle course.
THE CITY MARKET
thecitymarketkc.org/farmers-market
20 E. 5th Street, KCMO
KC’s original marketplace connecting local businesses and regional growers to the community with an eclectic mix of shops and boutiques and flavors from around the world.
YAYA’S ALPACA FARM
yayasalpacafarm.com
30200 E. 275th St, Garden City
Family farm raising adorable alpacas for sale, show, and for the gorgeous fleece that they produce.
BERKLEY RIVERFRONT
berkleyriverfront.com
1298 Riverfront Rd KCMO
17-acre park is located on the riverfront near downtown KC featuring biking paths, sand volleyball courts, and scenic landscapes.
KC STARLIGHT THEATER
kcstarlight.com
4600 Starlight Road, KCMO
KC’s oldest outdoor performing arts organization and home for the best Broadway musicals, concerts and unique theatrical shows.
SHATTO MILK COMPANY
shattomilk.com/events-tours
9406 N. HWY. 33 Osborn
Farm tours showing how the milk gets from farm to table, the bottling process, meet adorable calves, see where the cows eat, sleep and how they’re milked.
BOULEVARD DRIVE-IN
boulevarddrivein.com/wordpress
1051 Merriam Ln , KCK
4k Drive-in Cinema Theater
ZIP KC
zipkc.com
12829 Loring Springs, Bonner Springs
Zip Line Tours: Hike & Zip, Tower Tour, Ultimate Adventure Tour, Date Night Sunset Tour & Glow in the Dark Night Zipping.
WESTON ORCHARD westonorchard.com
18545 Co Rd H, Weston
U-pick fresh, seasonal fruit including peaches and blackberries in July & August.
NATIONAL WW1 MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL theworldwar.org
2 Memorial Drive , KCMO
The only museum in America dedicated to sharing the stories of those who served during the Great War: The Liberty Memorial was designated a National Historic Landmark on Sept. 20, 2006, recognizing the monument as a nationally significant historic property.
HORSEFEATHER SOCIAL horsefeathersocial.com
Loews Hotel, 1515 Wyandotte St, KCMO
Downtown rooftop bar overlooking The Kauffman Performing Arts Center and Bartle Hall Sky Stations while celebrating local distillers in your craft cocktails and the spirit of the early 1900s.
KC WINE CO kcwineco.com
13875 S. Gardner Road , Olathe
21+ boutique winery with no shortage of both wine slushies and winery events, including ongoing live music, bingo, trivia, and special events every weekend.
MARINA 27 STEAK & SEAFOOD marina27.com
22 A Street, Lake Lotawana
Lakeside dining on the shore of beautiful Lake Lotawana.
FIRST FRIDAYS IN THE WEST BOTTOMS westbottoms.com
1401 W. 13th St., KCMO
Approximately 600 vendors and more than 30 stores and restaurants make up the West Bottoms destination for interior decorators, designers, collectors, and consumers making unique finds for home, décor, style, and gift options.
ELECTRIC GARDEN BAR AT J. RIEGER & CO jriegerco.com/epgb
2700 Guinotte Ave, KCMO
Outdoor bar experience on the grounds of a historic distillery complete with fire pits, a swing set table, and lounge seating for an unparalleled outdoor patio bar experience. Enjoy playful menus inspired by nostalgic theme parks and soda parlors, including frozen cocktails and delectable food.
THE M80S BAND m80skc.com
Rotating Venues
Midwest’s hottest 80s cover band with all your favorite dance hits from pop, rock, funk and new wave.
THE ELMS HOTEL AND SPA elmshotelandspa.com
401 Regent Street, Excelsior Springs
Luxury hotel near Kansas City with unparalleled service, luxurious accommodations , genuine hospitality, and an idyllic setting that are the hallmarks of the resort and spa .
PERCHERON ROOFTOP BAR
crossroadshotelkc.com/food-and-drink/perch eron-rooftop-bar
2101 Central St, KCMO
Seasonal rooftop bar at Crossroads Hotel.
URBAN HIKES urbanhikeskc.com
Multiple Locations
3-6 mile guided urban hiking experiences in Downtown KCK and KCMO.
OLD WORLD BALLOONERY oldworldballoonery.com
12600 West 142nd Street, Overland Park
Champagne balloon rides in the Kansas City Metro Area - giving you some of the most beautiful views in Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas.
GREEN DIRT FARM
greendirtfarm.com/events
1099 Welt St, Weston
Farm to Table 5-course Dinners with wine pairings and curated Cheese Tasting Event
THE FONTAINE SUMMER CABANAS
thefontainehotel.com/the-hotel/servicesand-amenities
901 W. 48Tth Place, KCMO
Summer fun in the sun on the rooftop pool deck of The Fontaine with private cabanas.
ART COURSE 2023 AT THE NELSON ATKINS
MUSEUM OF ART
nelson-atkins.org/art-course
4525 Oak St, KCMO
Nine-hole mini golf course experience located in the exquisite Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park.
SALTWELL FARM KITCHEN saltwellfarmkitchen.com
214 North 800 Road, Overbook
Three-hour farm-to-table tasting menu featuring eight courses inspired by local ingredients, neighboring farmers and foraged foods, nestled in a shady walnut tree grover surrounded by farm animals.
PRAIRIEFIRE SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
visitprairiefire.com/eventcalendar
5661 W. 135th St. , Overland Park
Free live music concerts throughout the summer every Thursday from 7-10 pm.
ST. CHARLES BOAT & MOTOR
BRINGING FAMILIES TOGETHER
THROUGH BOATING
ARTICLE BY D. LEON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDEDWith summer in full swing, a long-standing St Charles boat dealer wants you to keep family top of mind. For more than 50 years, St. Charles Boat & Motor has made family an integral part of their long-standing business. Its mindset plays a major role in their business longevity.
“It’s very family-oriented. We believe highly in family,” said proud owner, Zeke David, “I just want to keep providing families the opportunity to get outside and enjoy themselves.”
For David and his staff, it all boils down to treating customers and employees like family. So just like you would want the best for your family, David explained it’s all about giving your customers the very best.
The shop offers a variety of high-performance upgrades, a diverse parts department, and an impressive showroom featuring Yamaha, Crest, and Mercury boats. Customers can also schedule a test drive, browse through pre-owned inventory or go in fiberglass repair and other specialized work.
“We do a lot of training with our customers as far as when they buy a new or pre-owned unit,” said David. “We do a pretty extensive pre-delivery process, so they’re comfortable with what they buy, how to operate it safely and with as least expense as possible.”
It’s a one-stop-shop with an experienced staff ready to meet customer needs. St Charles Boat & Motor team members are trained by the original equipment manufacturer, technicians and mechanics are on stand-by to answer and fix all boating concerns, and detailers are ready to clean and detail boats for storage.
“Sales is a bit of a roller coaster, and it depends on what the economy is doing, but service is always there, so if you care for your customers after the sale, that’s what keeps you going,” said David.
Boating has been a life-long passion for David and his family. His grandfather and father both owned boats and even worked at a boat dealership while in high school. It’s a passion that he eventually was able to share with his children who have either worked or currently worked at St Charles Boat and Motor.
“Once you get boating in your blood, it stays in your blood. Usually once you get an introduction to boating, it’s a lifetime activity,” said David.
While families come from all backgrounds. To David, boating is a universal pastime with the ability to create lifelong memories. .
“I’m a big advocate of family time, and I think you know boating is a great way to offer that,” said David.
As the shop gears up for another year in the books, David hopes the next 50 years of his business continues to deliver on customer service and bring families together.
“We’ve got, you know, three and four generations of family that have purchased from us over the years and obviously we want to continue to offer that,” said Zeke. “I don’t see this dealership going anywhere in the next 40 to 45 years other than to keep, continue to grow.”
We're all searching for ways to keep our homes happy and healthy. That's why we partner with Marvin. Each of their replacement products is designed with people in mind at every step, and they help you reconnect with the outdoors. When you partner with us, we will help you select the right Marvin windows and doors for your home and ensure the replacement process runs smoothly. You can simply relax and look forward to living better in your home.
Somerset was a place where the previous generations were a small and tight-knit community. in a thriving district that hosted a blacksmith shop, railroad depot, two markets, and the post office. And the common thread amongst the family memories is how the schoolhouse was THE foundation for the community’s bond before eventually closing its doors for good.
While the students are away, the teachers will play: The Faculty Lounge is now in session at Somerset Schoolhouse!
Gather your friends and family and add to your weekend itinerary this renovated 1920s schoolhouse that will captivate your love for shopping local artisan goods, craft cocktails-specifically whiskey, and a variety of live musicians performing you’ll find at least twice a month.
What’s genuinely charming about this destination is the heartfelt, family stories that precede it and are a major inspiration in owner Lesli Baker’s decision to turn this historical establishment into a modern-day gathering spot.
I had the opportunity to hear Lesli’s firsthand story about growing up a stone’s throw away from where the schoolhouse stands as well as the tales she heard for years from her father, uncles, and grandmother all born and raised in this once bustling Kansas town, and its those tales that ultimately became the predominant influence in her next business venture.
Flash-forward to a time we all know too well, of being isolated from everyone near and far in the thick of a pandemic, but also the pivotal moment when Lesli realized what she was missing: that joy of a tried and true community! Lesli tapped into her entrepreneurial spirit to convert what had turned into a residence for the last several decades and to bring back the schoolhouse charm. She had an overpowering vision to recreate a place where people would put their phones down, could look each other in the eye, and have a conversation.
So the process began in early 2021, from purchasing the property to rolling up her sleeves and doing what she does best; getting dirty and tearing things up in her DIY fashion, and while she said it certainly wasn’t pretty, Lesli KNEW what awaited her underneath it all, telling her husband, “Trust me, this is going to be something great.”
Lesli likes to shop and LOVES everything about the 1920s era, and her husband likes a good game and a glass of whiskey. She wanted to combine their passions and create a place where people will come and not want to leave; there’s something for everyone, from shopping the boutique to indulging in a flight of whiskey, catching a game AND playing a game, tossing horseshoes and bags, and enjoying the beautiful nature of Somerset from the cozy patio that hosts ongoing live music.
“Trust me, this is going to be something great.”
Lesli was also very intentional about wanting to stay with anything school-related; so, one will find that the speakeasy is cleverly named the Faculty Lounge, the cocktails are dubbed “Teachers Pet,” “Detention,” and “Vice Principal” amongst others, and the soon-to-open back patio bar will be called “The Bus Stop.”
She loves supporting local artisans, so you’ll find the Vice Principal signature cocktail includes Louisburg Cider and the Spelling Bee (i.e. Lemon Drop) features neighboring Somerset Ridge Winery’s Citron.
Many of the boutique items are from local makers all around the region as well, like Be Made Mercantile matches made in Hays Kansas and Magnolia Scents by Design candles made in Independence, KS. Their story is often featured next to the products so the consumers know they are buying local. Many of her favorite finds come from local farmers’ markets, such as Kansas City Caramels that her daughter discovered, and she ultimately carries things that other people love, including friends, family, and customers.
Another noteworthy event Lesli and her team put on is every second weekend in September, previous students/graduates who attended the school are invited back for a reunion to reminisce and celebrate the good times; both then and now.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Somerset Schoolhouse event without locally made drinks and eats, including Fannie Franks Coffee Cakes and serving their exclusive coffee blend created by local roaster Brews and Brews Company.
Now, if you’re out there thinking to yourself, “but whiskey’s just NOT my thing.” Hear ye: The female population jumping aboard the whiskey bandwagon is flourishing right now; take it from Lesli who once shied away from ordering whiskey, but after “business research” with local whiskey ambassadors who taught her how to find what she prefers (ps these ambassadors actually have a masters degree in whiskey; who knew that was a thing!), she now knows how to drink and can speak to women just like yourself who are willing to take the leap. The Brown Derby is a highly-popular cocktail in the lounge
It should also be noted that Somerset Schoolhouse only serves middle of the road to high-end whiskey with roughly 40 spirits offered, and counting. I.e., if you come in asking for Jack Daniels, you will receive Gentleman’s Jack.
If you really want to get adventurous, try a whiskey flight of (3) that run for $25 and is discounted on Thursday at just $15. Or, ask about group events where classes are taught.
Eventually, there will be a whiskey club membership featuring a high-end whiskey to dabble in. And speaking of additions, the quintessential exterior speakeasy door with the red light, green light + must have the password system for entry. The novelty is thriving at this South KC spot!
“It’s where the teachers can get into trouble without the risk of running into students!“
Somerset Schoolhouse is a place you will feel like you are experiencing something from the past and will get the feeling of community when there. The speakeasy is quaint, perfect for making new friends and discovering your mutual love for all things Kansas City. And, it’s where the teachers can get into trouble without the risk of running into any students!
Speaking of which, teachers are naturally favored in the Faculty Lounge so show your badge and you will receive an exclusive discount (applies to military personnel as well). And there will soon be a secret menu available only to teachers with select cocktail and food offerings.
Somerset Schoolhouse
28740 Somerset Rd, Paola, KS 66071
Thursday-Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM & Sundays 12 PM - 6 PM
@somersetschoolhouse on Instagram
Dr. Cristyn Watkins and her staff at aNu Aesthetics(™) and Optimal Wellness are committed to treating the whole person— both the inside and the outside. They offer much more than just aesthetics in our KC community.
“Our entire practice is focused on advanced medical aesthetics, regenerative medicine, healthy aging, and personalized wellness to treat the whole person––mind, body and spirit,” Dr. Watkins says.
As Founder, CEO, Owner and Medical Director, Dr. Watkins opened aNu Aesthetics(™) and Optimal Wellness in 2011 in Kansas City North and now has two more locations in River Market and Leawood.
“At aNu, we are literally giving people their lives and vitality back,” Dr. Watkins says. “We have an ultimate commitment to each and every patient to offer a customized and personalized treatment plan to help them reach their unique wellness and aesthetics goals.”
Born and raised in KC, this married mother of three practiced traditional Family Medicine for more than 10 years while struggling with her own chronic health issues. In 2006, after the birth of her twin girls, her health continued to decline, and she couldn’t find answers in traditional medicine. Through her personal search, she discovered Functional and Regenerative Medicine to help heal herself and others. Today, she is double board-certified in Family Medicine and Integrative, Metabolic, and Nutrition Medicine. She continues to speak and train nationally, while also training her advanced medical team on cutting-edge therapies.
aNu offers a wide range of Med Spa and Wellness treatments, including Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP), Ozone, Peptides, IV Nutritional Therapy and Advanced Biologics, along with cosmetic injectables, advanced lasers, aesthetic and skin care services. Dr. Watkins even has her own line of medical grade skincare and supplements named ‘aNu MD’.
“We are set apart from others with my 100% involvement in the daily aspects of my three locations, working alongside our advanced medical and aesthetic staff of MD’s, NMD’s, APRN’s, RN’s, LPN’s, LE’s and MA’s – with more than any other in the region.
I am constantly researching and training—finding the newest innovations and cutting-edge treatments for patients. Everything I do is a result of evidence-based medicine. I’ve never had anyone wish they did not invest in their own wellness because they feel better within 3 months!
We look for the root cause of disease, pain, inflammation, hormone imbalance, and chronic infections, and we treat the actual cause rather than the symptoms. We treat irritable bowel syndrome, autoimmune disease, chronic infections (Lyme, Mold, Epstein Barr Virus, etc.), toxins, endocrine/hormonal issues, infertility, insulin resistance/polycystic ovarian syndrome, anxiety/depression, medical weight loss, and more,” she states. “We also help REgenerate tissues, muscles, ligaments and joints with PRP, Ozone and Biologics—unlike surgery and steroid shots that can cause DEgeneration. We also help treat entire organ systems including the brain for MS, dementia, and Parkinson’s with NAD+ and other advanced IV therapies. We are equipped with the facilities and experience to deliver world-class treatment and care.”
The wide array of trend-setting aesthetic treatments includes dozens of services for the face and body that she has personally brought into each location to serve all patients’ needs: “I love helping people feel confident with aesthetics and allowing the inside and outside to finally match how we feel and what we want to project.”
One of our most popular benefits is the VIP membership plan. It is $150 per month but pays back patients with $100 a month in SPA BANK, a personal savings account! In effect, an $1,800 annual membership fee returns $1,200 of credit back to patients to use on all services and retail, a FREE monthly self-care treatment such as facials, B12 shot, LED, Sauna and more, PLUS 10% off all products and services.
For more information, social media links and a complete list of medical spa and wellness services, visit: anuaesthetics.com
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
JULY 4TH
Celebration in the Park – 4th of July
LEAWOOD CITY PARK • 10601 LEE BLVD.
The City of Leawood is excited to celebrate the 4th of July! Celebration in the Park starts at noon. Free admission and access to activities and inflatables.
• Leawood Aquatic Center Open • 12-6 pm
• Kids Activities and Entertainment • 6-9:30 pm
• Food Vendors • 6-9:30 pm
• Live Music • 7-9:30 pm
• Fireworks • 9:45 pm (approximately)
JULY 13TH-16TH & 19TH-23RD
Beauty and the Beast Presented by Leawood Stage Company
ROCKHURST HIGH SCHOOL • ROSE THEATRE 9301 STATE LINE RD | 7:30 PM
This “tale as old as time” is filled with spectacular costume and set opportunities or, even more simply stated, "Disney’s Beauty and the Beast offers a great opportunity to bring your entire community together for family theatre at its best." July 13th-15th & 19th-22nd - 7:30 pm, July 16th & 23rd - 2 pm. Visit leawoodstageco.org for more information
JULY 14TH-22ND
Theater in the Park: White Christmas
SHAWNEE MISSION PARK | 7:30 PM
All performances begin at 8:30pm. The box office opens at 7pm on performance evenings. Gates to the seating area open at 7:30pm. White Christmas runs approximately 2.5 hours with one 15 minute intermission.
JULY 15TH
Food Truck Frenzy
13446 SANTA FE TRAIL DR., LENEXA | 4:00 PM
Visit Old Town Lenexa to feast on a variety of cuisines from area food trucks and enjoy live music by local band Fast Times. Limited seating available, feel free to bring a chair.
JULY 20THAUGUST 6TH
POWELL GARDENS
Festival of Butterflies invites nature enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the Midwest’s most whimsical pollinator at Powell Gardens. Spend a day outdoors exploring tropical and native butterflies alongside stunning botanic displays. This festival is a Kansas City family-favorite!
JULY 22ND
FREE 80S HAIRBANDS MUSIC BINGO
KC WINE CO. | 8:00 PM
Free 80s Hairbands Music Bingo Hairspray. Shoulder pads. Purple Rain. Grab your Breakfast Club and kick off let’s moonwalk through 80s Hairbands Bingo at KC Wine Co!
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Leawood
