KIDS & PETS
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The Kids & Pets Issue
August is here, and with it comes one of our most heartwarming issues of the year—our Kids & Pets Issue! As any parent or pet owner knows, there’s a special kind of magic that children and animals bring into our lives. Kids show us the world through a lens of curiosity, creativity, and joy, while our pets remind us what unconditional love looks like—tail wags, snuggles, and all.
This month, we’re celebrating that joy and love in every page. You’ll meet some of Columbia’s youngest food critics in our feature, Little Foodies of COMO, where local kids share their favorite spots to eat around town. We’re also shining a light on the incredible work of the Central Missouri Humane Society, a true community hero when it comes to protecting and caring for our four-legged friends.
For the teens in your life, we’re thrilled to introduce Coach Megan Matthews, founder of Coach Matthews Driving School. She’s on a mission to keep our kids safe on the road and help them gain the skills—and confidence—they need to become responsible drivers.
We hope this issue brings a smile to your face and reminds you of the simple joys that come from the smallest voices and the furriest family members.
And speaking of furry family members—you’ll notice a photo of us, along with our two sweet dogs, Sammy and Teddy. They’re constant companions behind the scenes here at Columbia City Lifestyle, and they couldn’t be more excited to make their editorial debut!
Wishing you a month full of joy, laughter, and plenty of tail wags.
Warmly,
LEANNE AND SHEA SULLIVAN , PUBLISHER AND PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @COLUMBIACITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Leanne Sullivan
leanne.sullivan@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Shea Sullivan
shea.sullivan@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Sarah Jane Shorthose mail@sjanephotography.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Jordan Durham jmdurham18@gmail.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Building attainable housing through education and partnerships. Our Members gain support and savings with our organization. We help Consumers get quality construction and ethical contractors committed to excellence in new homes, remodels, and all projects. You can trust our HBA Members with your home.
Little Foodies of COMO
Paws and Progress
Transforming Teens into Confident Drivers
city scene
1-3: Bags ‘n Wags brought Columbia’s dog lovers together on June 14, 2025, for pet adoptions, shopping, and contests. The free event featured vendor booths, food trucks, and plenty of fun for pets and their owners. 4-6: BMW of Columbia proudly sponsored the 2025 Justin Reid and JReid InDeed Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament. The dealership’s team was represented by Josh Reichlin, who joined other community members in support of the cause.
7-9: The Rusty Drewing Sunday Funday Summer Fun Kick Off employee appreciation and Rusty Drewing beer launch in collaboration with Logboat Brewing Company.
business monthly
Stephanie Wilmsmeyer Earns National Recognition
Columbia-based State Farm agent Stephanie Wilmsmeyer has been named to the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table, a global honor recognizing top-tier life insurance and financial professionals. This achievement places her among the industry's elite. Wilmsmeyer and her team, located at 2609 E. Broadway, offer comprehensive insurance and financial services, proudly serving the Columbia community.
Magnolia’s Whisky & Wine Opens Downtown
Magnolia’s Whisky & Wine Bar is now open at 920 Cherry St., offering imported whiskys, fine wines, and chef-crafted small plates with local, seasonal flavors. Family owned by the Liberts, Magnolia’s pairs sophisticated drinks with a warm atmosphere. Open Wed–Sat, 4–11 PM. Visit magnoliascomo.com.
Mizzou Graduate Researches Service Dogs’ Well-Being
Former NFL linebacker Don Cherry, now a doctoral student at Mizzou’s College of Veterinary Medicine, is leading a study on the mental and physical health of service dogs assisting people recovering from brain injuries. His research aims to develop more ethical training methods, support service animals’ welfare, and redefine how human-animal partnerships are studied and supported.
Photography by Karen Clifford
LITTLE FOODIES OF COMO
ARTICLE BY SHEA SULLIVAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY
WHERE COLUMBIA’S CUTEST CRITICS SHARE FAVORITE EATS, SWEET TREATS, AND THEIR ULTIMATE RESTAURANT IDEAS
What do Columbia’s littlest foodies love most about our local dining scene? We asked four kids their favorite place to eat in Columbia, what they always order, who serves the best pizza (and how they like it), plus their top spot for ice cream or sweet treats. We also invited them to dream big: if they could open their own restaurant, what would it be called, and what delicious dishes would it serve? Read on for their adorable answers and discover what Columbia’s cutest critics think about the best bites around town!
01
KID CRITIC: OLIVIA, 7 YEARS OLD
Olivia’s favorite spot is Sophia’s, where she always orders a cheesy quesadilla—“I LOVE cheese!” she says. Her favorite pizza is pineapple on Shakespeare’s skinny crust, and she loves chocolate ice cream at Andy’s. If she opened a restaurant, it’d be Liv’s Bakery with towering pancake stacks. Every Valentine’s Day, her family celebrates with burgers and fries at Booches—a tradition she adores.
KID CRITIC: DECLAN “DUCK”, 6 YEARS OLD
Declan’s favorite spot is Olive Garden, where he orders mac and cheese—“because it’s so tasty and cheesy!” His top pizza pick is G&D’s with pepperoni, cheese, and pineapple. For treats, he loves chocolate-covered cherries from The Candy Factory. If he opened a restaurant, it’d be Cooking Chickens BBQ Time, serving BBQ and eggs for everyone.
KID CRITIC: AUTUMN, 8 YEARS OLD
Autumn’s favorite spot is Sake for sushi, and she also enjoys Chinese food, fajitas, or a cheeseburger “in paradise” (she sang it like Jimmy Buffett while answering!) with all the toppings. Her favorite pizza is Shakespeare’s with mushrooms, banana peppers, pepperoni, and sausage. She picks an Oreo Blizzard at Dairy Queen. She’d open Autumn’s Cat Café serving coffee, waffles, and breakfast foods.
02 03 04
KID CRITIC: CAL, 6 YEARS OLD
Cal’s favorite spot is Flat Branch Pub & Brewing, where he always orders crispy chicken tenders with honey mustard—“They’re super crispy and yummy!” he says. His top pizza pick is Arris’ Pizza with bacon and green peppers. For treats, he loves Oreo Speedwagon ice cream from Sparky’s. He’d open Cal’s Diner serving milkshakes and curly fries.
PAWS and Progress
Central Missouri Humane Society plans for the future with classroom outreach and new facility expansion
ARTICLE BY JORDAN DURHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CENTRAL MISSOURI HUMANE SOCIETY AND STEVE DEVRIES
CMHS new facility rendering
Brownie
Precious was ten years old when she was abandoned in a Moser Foods parking lot on June 30, 2020. It was one of the worst neglect cases the Central Missouri Humane Society had seen. Her fur was dirty and matted, her front legs were paralyzed, and she had a broken tail and back leg. The veterinarian also had to remove 19 of her teeth. Looking at the photos, it’s hard to tell Precious was even a dog.
Five years later, Precious is an ambassador and a symbol of resilience for CMHS and a certified therapy dog. She and her owner, Steve DeVries — a dedicated volunteer with CMHS for over 10 years — visit Columbia Public Schools and other organizations through the Be Kind program. The program lets students interact with Precious and hear her story. DeVries uses her situation to discuss the value of life, how we treat others, and bullying.
DeVries always sits at eye level with the students. During one visit as he told Precious’ story, a sixth grader raised his hand and asked what grocery store she was found at.
“I said it was Moser’s on Keene Street, and he looks at me, and I look at him and he goes, ‘I live on Keene Street.’ First I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I’ve got his dog!’” DeVries says. “But he looked at me, and I looked at him, and he said, ‘What kind of person would do something like that?’ I said, ‘That’s a good question. What do you think?’”
DeVries believes listening to students helps them grow kinder. “Remember, if you want to show a child they have value, let them tell you what they think.”
Michelle Casey, associate director and campaign manager of CMHS, occasionally joins DeVries and Precious in classrooms and sees firsthand the power of these conversations.
“It starts some really interesting conversations with the kids, and gets them thinking,” Casey says. “And really, the younger that we can start to instill kindness, empathy, and compassion into kids, I think the better off we are in the future — creating people that are going to be animal welfare advocates in this community.”
CONTINUED >
Precious the day she was rescued
Steve and Precious
DeVries is one of 400 volunteers who assist CMHS. He and his wife, Beth, have fostered between 100-200 dogs, taking in older, smaller dogs needing extra care and attention. He has been nipped a few times, but understands why.
“The vast majority of the time, they’re just scared. They’re terrified. They don’t know. And when you’re little, they don’t know if you’re going to kill them. I always tell them, ‘We’re not going to kill you. We’re friends, not food.’”
CMHS has been in continuous operation for over 80 years and is the only open-admission shelter in Boone County, taking in all animals. This includes surrendered pets, strays—and even an alligator. CMHS is a no-kill shelter and has maintained a 90% placement rate for over 10 years. The organization also runs the Animal Safety Net program, placing pets of domestic violence survivors in undisclosed foster homes so owners can leave unsafe situations without abandoning their pets.
With so many animals, CMHS volunteers help by walking dogs, transporting pets, working events, and fostering.
Casey says the Columbia community always comes through when CMHS needs help. One day this past June, the facility’s washing machine stopped working, and
Precious after months of loving care
Jamon
“I want to do this not only for our community, but for my family here at the humane society—and for the animals that deserve it.”
—MICHELLE CASEY
dirty laundry piled up until staff couldn’t even hook up the backup. They sent out a plea to the community for help. The response was immediate: within hours, everything from soiled blankets to pet beds was picked up, cleaned, and returned.
“From the big to the little this community steps up,” Casey says. “It’s reassuring, and it really motivates our staff because working here at the shelter — especially during the summer — we are busy, it’s hot, there are animals everywhere, and we’re constantly dealing with space. Having volunteers come in and help us just empowers us to keep working. It’s really great.”
Another time, CMHS put out a plea for fosters when they ran out of space. Within 24 hours, 50 new people had signed up to foster.
Casey began volunteering with CMHS her first semester of college in 2007. After a brief few years away, she returned as a kennel technician and after a brief few years away has been with the humane society ever since. The community’s compassion still amazes her.
Currently, CMHS is raising funds for a new facility. The current building — constructed in 1976 on 2.88 acres in north Columbia — is showing its age. The roof is falling in, and part of the building lacks air conditioning. The staff contends with black mold and asbestos. Plus, with the influx of animals, there’s simply no space.
The new facility will cost $25 million, with $5 million raised so far. It will sit on 17.5 acres already purchased by the nonprofit. As Casey says, the facility will be a “one-stop-shop, animal care campus.” Plans include a veterinary hospital, adoption area, enrichment and behavior rooms, training zones, dog-walking trails, modern and energy-efficient systems for disease control, sound-proof areas to reduce stress, and more.
“There’s an internal desire to get this done,” Casey says. “Because I want to do this not only for our community, but for my family here at the humane society — and for the animals that deserve it.”
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Transforming Teens into Confident Drivers
and
For Coach Matthews, teaching driver’s education isn’t just about the rules of the road — it’s about changing lives and giving students the tools they need to navigate the world with confidence.
What started as a quiet dream during her years as a teacher became reality when an opportunity arose for her to become certified in driver’s education. After earning her credentials, Coach Matthews felt a wave of uncertainty, wondering if she was really ready. But everything clicked when she spotted a posting for female instructors — a moment she calls the sign she needed to trust herself. Thanks to a mentor who believed in her, she turned a long-held goal into a thriving business with Coach Matthews Driving School.
“I’ve always told myself I wanted to be the person I needed when I was younger — someone who listens, who understands, and who shows up when it matters,” Matthews shares. “Behind the wheel, I get the chance to be that person for my students.”
That deep connection is what makes her teaching style stand out. Lessons aren’t just about parallel parking or highway merges; they’re about building trust so students feel safe enough to learn and grow. Matthews tells every student not to lose her number, because she wants them to know she’ll be there — whether they have a driving question or just need someone to talk to. “These lessons
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY SHEA SULLIVAN
aren’t just about how to drive — they’re about learning how to be independent and confident in a world that isn’t always forgiving.”
A huge part of her approach is helping new drivers — and often their parents — let go of the fear and misconceptions that can hold them back. Matthews says many teens start out convinced they can’t do it, but with patience and encouragement, they quickly realize they’re more capable than they thought. “The best part of my job is watching that shift happen,” she says. “Once a student sees they actually can drive, something clicks. They become determined, focused, and excited to learn.”
Her warm, supportive style even caught the internet’s attention. When her son, Jalen, suggested filming a TikTok, Matthews didn’t expect much. But their first video went viral overnight, and what started as a fun bonding activity turned into a platform reaching millions of viewers worldwide. She now posts driving
How Coach Matthews Inspires Skill, Independence,
Courage Behind the Wheel
Coach Matthew's learning space
tips, encouragement, and behindthe-scenes glimpses of life as an instructor, giving even those outside Missouri a chance to learn from her positive approach. “It became our thing — our time to bond — and I got to be the ‘cool mom’ for once,” she laughs.
One of Matthews’ most powerful reminders of why her work matters came when a husband needed his license so his family could function day to day. His wife had been fasting until he passed his test, making the outcome about so much more than
driving. “I realized in that moment this was never just about getting a license — it was about survival, opportunity, and dignity,” Matthews recalls.
For Coach Matthews, driver’s education is about more than road signs and turn signals. It’s about showing students they can do hard things, helping them gain independence, and building their confidence for life beyond the driver’s seat. “That’s why I do what I do,” she says. “Because everyone deserves someone who believes in them.”
RO A D CHOW
A FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACK GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? This easy-to-pack and satisfying snack is a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare it together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!
DIRECTIONS:
1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups quick oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/3 cup apple butter
• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1/2 cup raisins
2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.
3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)
4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.
events
AUGUST 1ST
Movie Night at Lakeside Ashland: Inside Out 2
Lakeside Ashland, 5900 East Log Providence Road | 7:30 PM
Kick off your weekend with a fun Friday night showing of Inside Out 2 under the stars. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., with the movie starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12.50 per person. No outside food or drink allowed.
AUGUST 4TH
KVC Kids Classic Golf Tournament
The Club at Old Hawthorne | 8:00 AM
Tee off at one of the region’s premier private golf courses during this exclusive tournament benefiting KVC Missouri. Enjoy 18 holes, VIP treatment, deluxe golf swag, meals before and after play, and a chance to win prizes. Registration opens at 7:00 a.m., with an 8:00 a.m. shotgun start and lunch with awards at 12:00 p.m.
AUGUST 7TH
Black Stone Cherry at The Blue Note
The Blue Note | 7:30 PM
Catch southern rock powerhouse Black Stone Cherry as they bring their electrifying live show to Columbia’s iconic venue, The Blue Note. Don’t miss an unforgettable night of hard-hitting riffs, powerful vocals, and crowd favorites.
AUGUST 25TH
22nd Annual Chamber Golf Classic
Columbia Country Club | 8:00 AM
Join Columbia Chamber of Commerce members for the 22nd Annual Chamber Golf Classic, with tee times at 8 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Registration is $200 per person or $800 per team of four, including green fees, cart, lunch, drinks, contests, and prizes. To register as a single or double, call the Chamber office at 573-874-1132; team registration is available online.
AUGUST 28TH
Mizzou Football vs. Central Arkansas
Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium | 6:30 PM
Cheer on the Tigers as Mizzou kicks off their season against Central Arkansas under the lights at Faurot Field.
AUGUST 30TH
Beer & Bagel Off-Road Run
1900 Blue Ridge Road, Columbia, MO 65202
This 4(ish)-mile trail run takes you through rugged terrain with no gimmicks—just nature at its best. After the race, enjoy ice-cold beer, bagels, and hearty home cooking. Registration includes it all, so no need to bring cash!
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Featured Listings
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is an independent real estate brokerage established in 2019. After nearly 12 years operating as one of the top international franchises, the switch to our own brand allowed us to keep our marketing budgets local-propelling our agent's careers and supporting our community + the small businesses that reside here. With every new Iron Gate office that is opened, we strive to stay true to our mission, "National Service. Local Impact.". Through our diverse resources and multiple divisions, we are equipped to service any client on a national scale; never losing sight of our goal of impacting the local community through marketing dollars, events, + our Non-Profit IG|Gives. Our clients are consistently treated to the Iron Gate Experience that includes in-house professional photography, 360° virtual tours, drone footage, premium physical and digital marketing materials, + a dependable team of full-time industry experts backing their Agents every step of the way.
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is a dedicated Missouri REALTOR® known for her strong work ethic, community values, and commitment to serving others.
In her fifth year of real estate and a background in entrepreneurship, she brings a unique blend of experience and heart to every client interaction. Before real estate, Jillian built a successful shingle elevator business— designing and crafting equipment still in use today.
Outside of work, Jillian enjoys life with her husband of 23 years and their two children. She’s also a devoted member of Hallsville Rocky Fork Fellowship, where she serves in the nursery and shares her faith with the youngest members of the congregation.
Whether she’s baking cakes, running long distances, or helping clients find the perfect home, Jillian’s passion for uplifting others shines through. She approaches every transaction with care, energy, and a true heart for service.
REALTOR® 660-651-8443
JILL@IGREALESTATE.COM
JILLHART.IGREALESTATE.COM
Kindel Putnam is a standout Missouri REALTOR® known for her commitment to helping clients find not just a house, but a home. From the start of her career, she has earned top recognition in one of the region’s largest brokerages, quickly building a reputation for her professionalism, local knowledge, and client-first approach
Kindel also plays a vital role in her family’s company, Putnam Construction, which builds high-quality homes throughout midMissouri. With hands-on experience in both new construction and real estate sales, she offers her clients a well-rounded, full-service perspective—whether they’re building from the ground up or buying an existing home.
With Kindel, you can count on expert guidance, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for helping people find their perfect place to
REALTOR® 417-827-0998
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Luxury Listing of the Month
Come find your piece of paradise at 700 Brockton Dr. in this stunning walkout home by Putnam Construction, tucked at the end of a cul-de-sac with wooded views from every window. Enjoy ultimate privacy and a grand back deck offering glimpses of the community lake. Inside, top-notch finishes include a gorgeous custom kitchen with black stainless appliances, gas range, farmhouse sink, and a spacious walk-in pantry. The expansive master suite features a soaker tub, custom tile shower, double vanity with undercabinet lighting, and a large walk-in closet. This home offers five bedrooms (fifth non-conforming), a versatile multipurpose room, and a John Deere room. The expansive lower level is perfect for entertaining with a wet bar, generous storage, and more beautiful views from the back patio. Start your next chapter in this stunning home!
Listed by Kindel Putnam with Iron Gate Real Estate. Call 417-827-0998 for more details.
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