Urgent Care At Home is here to serve YOU! Top-notch health care without ever having to leave your couch. Whether it's an in-home visit or quick Telehealth chat, we're here to provide quality care wherever you are. We provide a wide range of services beyond just urgent care. Routine checkups, sports physicals, chronic disease management, weight management and more! Meghan Macy, MSN, FNP-C, NE
Host with ease whether it’s in your space or ours, we’ll take care of every detail
This holiday season, Of Course invites you to celebrate with us, whether it’s an intimate dinner at home, a festive company party, or an exclusive restaurant buyout. We will help you create a gathering as meaningful and memorable as the season itself
Each dish is crafted by Chef Swetha Newcomb, whose cooking is elevated by a lifelong connection to her Indian heritage Her approach brings warmth, modern technique and bold spice to every plate infused with the rich traditions of South Indian cuisine
Thoughtfully chosen wine pairings accompany each course, enhancing the experience and bringing every flavor to life. Visit our website to explore our seasonal offerings, and reserve your event today.
The days are getting shorter, the leaves are starting to turn, the sounds of Sunday night football lingerie in many homes, we consider meals that provide us with warmth and comfort, and if you’re anything like us, you’re asking yourself, “How is it already November?”. In a fast-paced world, this time of year can be a gentle reminder for us to slow down and reflect on all that we’re thankful for. As Nolan and I approach this Thanksgiving season, we’re doing just that.
There are so many traditions that come to mind as I consider all that we have planned for the month of November. Our moms happen to have birthdays one day apart, and they usually fall on, or near, Thanksgiving day. For our families, this means a huge celebration encompassing birthdays and Thanksgiving all in one weekend. While I always love a reason to celebrate, what I value most from this tradition is time with those I love.
As two Kansas City natives that love to travel, there is something so grounding and cozy about being in Johnson County for the holiday season. Our community has a way of celebrating one another and emphasizing what really matters - time together. As we reflect on all that we are thankful for, we’re overwhelmed with the many blessings that fill our lives. Family, friends, laughter around a table, and a community within Johnson County City Lifestyle that has embraced us with love and appreciation.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make Johnson County such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our amazing partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile. Our hope is that this issue brings you joy, encouragement, and inspiration. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.
NOLAN AND EVA WILLIAMS , PUBLISHER S @JOHNSONCOUNTYCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Nolan Williams | nolan.williams@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Eva Williams | eva.williams@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Lauren Powers, Judy Spaar
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Designing with Purpose
Renovation
The Man Behind the Mic
Longtime
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
JANIE JONES
Renovation Expertise and Gratitude with Stacey Neely of Design Deux Lynne
When homeowners decide it is finally time to renovate, the excitement can quickly be matched with a sense of overwhelm. Budgeting, material choices, and design direction are just the beginning, and that is before demo day even arrives. For Johnson County’s Stacey Neely, co-founder and designer at Design Deux Lynne, the goal is to guide clients through this process with both creativity and practicality and they are grateful for the opportunity to be part of the process with homeowners.
One of the most common (and daunting) decisions homeowners face is choosing countertops. Stacey notes that considerations should include “aesthetics, budget, durability, and desired level of maintenance.”
She breaks down the pros and cons of today’s most popular materials:
Quartzite: “A timeless natural stone available in a variety of colors and styles. It is heat resistant and durable when sealed periodically,” though often costly.
Quartz: An engineered, non-porous option that is “stain, scratch, and heat resistant,” and available in many styles designed to mimic natural stone.
“Consult experienced professionals,” she advises right away. “Get recommendations from family or friends for designers and contractors they have used and had quality experiences and outcomes. Using trusted referrals can truly impact your project experience and final product.” Stacey also encourages homeowners to build a realistic budget, including a 15% cushion for unexpected pivots, and to prepare both the home and their schedules for the disruption. Even the neighbors, she points out, will appreciate a heads-up about “extra noise, extra mess, and extra vehicles on the street.”
Not every project starts from scratch, and Stacey is passionate about creating harmony when mixing old and new. “To blend a renovation seamlessly with your overall design style, create continuity by repeating color palettes and similar materials,” she says. This approach respects a home’s history while allowing for fresh updates that elevate its character.
Marble: “Often considered the most designer and high-end of all the options,” marble is timeless but requires sealing and maintenance to avoid staining or chipping.
Soapstone: On the rise in popularity, soapstone is heat resistant and low-maintenance, though available in fewer color variations.
Other materials like granite, butcher block, concrete, and porcelain each bring their own flair. “There is something for everyone,” Stacey emphasizes, “but it comes down to balancing your lifestyle with your design goals.”
Beyond stone, Stacey sees clients increasingly eager to experiment with finishes. “Mixing metals is such a great way to accomplish custom and curated spaces,” she explains. The trick is balance: establish a dominant finish and then layer in a secondary one at about a 60/40 ratio. Whether it is cabinet hardware, faucets, or lighting, thoughtful mixing makes the space feel polished rather than mismatched.
With endless design inspiration flooding social media, Stacey knows homeowners can get paralyzed by choice. That is where she and her co-founder, Ashley Loganbill, come in. “Together we will create a customized and beautiful design, save you time, stress, and potentially costly mistakes by coordinating and managing your projects efficiently,” Stacey says. Their decade of sourcing and hands-on experience helps narrow the field to options that fit both the client’s vision and their home’s function.
Not every upgrade requires a massive budget. “Paint and flooring are two of the most impactful decisions
you will make,” Stacey explains. Flooring sets the foundation of function and style, while paint becomes “the mood-setting layer” that pulls the design together.
From wallpaper to nature-inspired paint colors, Stacey sees plenty of trends worth exploring, but always with an eye toward longevity. “Integrate trends that are timeless rather than short-lived,” she suggests. Use bold colors or patterns as accents layered with neutral, classic pieces so your home stays sophisticated as styles evolve.
Renovation may feel like a big undertaking, but with expert guidance and thoughtful choices, the process can be both exciting and rewarding. As Stacey reminds us, the goal is always to create spaces that truly reflect the people who live in them. With the right countertops, finishes, and design details, your home can become not just more beautiful, but more functional and welcoming too. “We love what we do,” Stacey says, “and we love helping clients create spaces and homes they love.”
MAKE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS MOST
This fall, let your home reflect the beauty of the season. From clearing cluttered garages to refreshing living spaces, Midwest Junk Removal & Demolition helps you prepare for gatherings, holidays, and new memories.
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I’m Katie Montgomery, and I’m dedicated to helping my clients work through life transitions, previous traumas, and everyday stressors. I use various client-centered techniques & therapeutic interventions to tailor my approach for each client. My goal is to help you feel truly seen. I want to create an environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment or shame. Together, we will work to create positive life change!
If you ask Joel Goldberg when he “made it” in sports broadcasting, he doesn’t point to the glitter of a Super Bowl press box or the roar of a World Series crowd. Those moments came— Super Bowl XXXIV in New Orleans in 2000, Fenway Park during the 2004 Fall Classic—but the true arrival didn’t happen under the stadium lights. It happened later, in Kansas City, when he realized for the first time in his career that he was right where he wanted to be.
That sense of contentment wasn’t won easily. Goldberg’s path into broadcasting wasn’t paved with connections or shortcuts. He broke in the old-fashioned way, knocking on doors, cold calling executives, sending out demo tapes, and weathering rejection after rejection. “It was never handed to me,” he admits. Instead, he built it the same way he builds interviews, with persistence, preparation, and a knack for finding the story no one else was telling.
His storytelling roots were planted in small markets, where the spotlight rarely shines. Rhinelander, Wisconsin, was first, where high school and community features dominated his workload. In Madison, he added college sports to the mix, sharpening his instincts. St. Louis opened the door to the big leagues: the NFL, NHL, and Major League Baseball. By the time Kansas City called, Goldberg was battle-tested and ready.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“At each stop, I learned that everyone has a story to tell,” he says. “The under-the-radar or less famous ones are often the most meaningful.”
One of those lessons came courtesy of Albert Pujols. Goldberg was there when the slugger broke into the majors in 2001, but it took eight years to earn his trust. The breakthrough, when it finally came, reshaped Goldberg’s approach. “The biggest names crave normalcy,” he says. “They just want to be treated like regular people.” That perspective has guided his interviews ever since, whether he’s talking to a Hall of Famer, a rookie, or a CEO.
For Kansas City fans, Goldberg is more than a broadcaster; he’s part of the fabric of the Royals experience. His voice has carried fans through both heartbreak and triumph, from the long rebuilding years to the electric 2014–2015 championship run. While many point to the 2014 Wild Card game as a franchise-defining moment, Goldberg’s personal favorite came days earlier in Chicago, when
Salvador Perez squeezed the final out that clinched the team’s first playoff berth in 29 years.
“That celebration was unforgettable,” he recalls. “It felt surreal that one of the losingest franchises in baseball had finally ended such a long drought.”
Kansas City, he says, brings a different flavor to baseball fandom. “There’s a Midwest kindness here that extends to the ballpark,” he explains. “Fans take pride not just in the team, but in the city and the people who represent it. That loyalty shows players they’re embraced as part of the community, no matter the record.”
For Goldberg, the real magic is in the quieter moments. “Interviewing a player after his big league debut never
gets old,” he says. He recalls Nate Eaton in Toronto, hearing only his mom’s voice in the stands as he circled the bases, or Samad Taylor hitting a walk-off in his first game at Kauffman and telling him, ‘This is something you don’t even dream of.’ “I held back some tears hearing their raw emotions and was honored to be a part of their journeys.”
He’s quick to note what makes an interview truly great: humility, honesty, perspective, and passion. “The best interviews come from people unafraid to be themselves,” he says. ”That kind of openness goes a long way with fans and their teammates.”
Among the thousands of stories he’s told, one stands above the rest. In 2011, Goldberg hosted a 30-minute tribute to Royals legend and former broadcast partner Paul Splittorff following his passing. “It was both incredibly challenging and profoundly meaningful,” he says. “He mattered as much to us in the booth as he did to the fans.”
While broadcasting remains his anchor, Goldberg’s work has expanded far beyond the ballpark. After the Royals’ 2015 World Series championship, he began connecting the lessons of winning teams to the business world, launching his Game Changer Speaking Series. The parallels, he explains, are undeniable.
“Championship culture isn’t just about pulling the rope the same way,” Goldberg says. “It’s about trust. When trust is built and sustained day after day, it creates an environment people genuinely want to be part of.”
His speaking events often pull back the curtain on the unseen teamwork that powers a broadcast. “Showing that behind-the-scenes teamwork highlights how every role is essential
to success,” he says. “People begin to see how their own role matters, while others recognize the value of the roles around them. That shift in perspective can change the way a team looks at its culture.”
After 30 years, what keeps him excited? For Goldberg, it’s the unpredictability of the game. “Who else gets to go to a job where you truly never know what’s going to happen day to day?” he says. “Win or lose, I’ve got a job to do and someone’s watching somewhere at home, in a hospital bed, on a military base overseas and beyond.”
For Kansas City, Joel Goldberg isn’t just the man on the screen after the final out. He’s a storyteller who’s built a career on trust, a voice that’s carried a city through heartbreak and triumph, and a guide reminding us that, whether in baseball or business, culture is the true game changer.
To learn more about Joel and the Game Changer Speaker Series, visit www.joelgoldbergmedia.com
JOHNSON COUNTY BOASTS MANY UNIQUE, WELCOMING LOCALES.
Are you planning a lifetime event anytime soon? You’ll have no trouble finding a spot that suits your theme and personality right at your fingertips.
This modern country retreat in Louisburg boasts a breathtaking outdoor ceremony space overlooking a five-acre pond and a vast reception space with a grand staircase and state of the art
ARTICLE BY JUDY SPAAR PHOTOGRAPHY
PROVIDED
lighting and sound. Full-service staff, two luxury getting ready suites, and a touch screen six-foot tall mirror photo booth are just a few of the many amenities included in your rental.
The Haven Event Space opened in 2021. Owner, Blake Harris, created and designed the space with every detail in mind. From layout to lighting, everything was thought out and created to be a place where people could gather in a setting that feels both beautiful and welcoming.
“At The Haven, we put our clients first!” noted Rachel Lay, manager. “Caring for them, the space, and every detail along the way. We offer thoughtful amenities like the
photo booth, a décor shed full of options, and 40 acres of beautiful land perfect for photos. Our goal is to make planning easy while giving couples a stunning backdrop for their day.”
They host weddings, corporate gatherings, holiday parties, and other celebrations throughout the year with a goal of, “Making sure every client feels loved and cared for. We want each event to feel like a dream come true, and we’re honored to play a part in such meaningful days!” Lay exclaimed.
The winery began when grapes were planted in 2016 by the Bergman family,
“THEY REALLY SOFTEN THE SPACE AND MAKE FOR A ROMANTIC SETTING.”
buying 4,000 grape vines instead of 400 as originally planned. Weddings and events began in 2018, and after their first vintage that year, the tasting room was opened in October 2019.
Dani Seiwert took over as event coordinator in 2019 after the first 20 weddings, leaving her job in healthcare for something she was more passionate about due to her giving nature and love for people.
“We offer several distinct spaces to accommodate most sizes of events,” Seiwert noted. “With a house that sleeps 14 plus on site and can host up to 100 people, our estate sits on 160 acres with a large lake and vineyards to walk around.”
The winery’s main venue is a renovated stable barn where most weddings take place and can accommodate 300 people. The space has over 900 hanging candles. She explained that they are battery operated and yes, they have to click them all on individually!
“They really soften the space and make for a romantic setting. The patio connected to this venue holds up to 300 as well,” she continued. “We have a barrel room right off our tasting room that can hold up to 50 people, as well as a connected patio that holds up to 100 people.”
They also host events in their European streetscape, dubbed the Pubspace, which holds up to 600 people, including three
individual pubs holding up to 50 people each, and a greenhouse that can hold up to 100 people.
She expressed that, of course, without the wine, they wouldn't be here. They produce old world styles of wine with hybrid and classic vinifera grapes which are grown focusing on dry whites, brut sparkling, and light body reds. The dry whites and sparkling are world class; replicating Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio in European styles, as well as an estate grown Riesling.
They personally craft all the handmade sparkling in the Méthode Champenoise, replicating traditional Champagne as well as the more vibrant and youthful Prosecco. Estate grown reds are similar to the lighter styles made in Eastern Europe and parts of France. They then source some fruit from Washington, very close to their sister winery, Echolands, to make structured, full body reds for those who enjoy them.
“At Bourgmont, everything we do starts with a genuine desire to serve. We take pride in thoughtful hospitality, and it shows in the care we bring to weddings, gatherings and every event we host,” she shared. “Our team came from many different occupations, but are all now finely tuned in creating lasting connections and memories for our guests.”
Janet Coffey and her husband, Don, acquired their Stilwell property in 1989. Coffey Grounds Farm is more than a venue. It’s a place to have a girls’ day out while enjoying a high tea or a date night at a Farm to Table dinner. It is a fun place for life’s celebrations from baby showers to graduation parties, or a 50th birthday, weddings and rehearsal dinners.
Their high teas are more than a pot of tea with a few treats. They include three courses and three tiers of amazing sweats. These are held twice a year, once with Santa and once with the Easter Bunny.
“Our weddings are truly special. We start with walking our couple through our flower garden where we help them pick flowers for their special day for the tables and bouquets,” Coffey smiled. “The grounds are a photographer’s dream with woods that surround the barn and glass doors that open to a view of the pond.”
Coffey Grounds Farm started off as their family home where she raised her children and grandchildren who now come to play. Everyone can eat right out of the garden thus the saying, “My Garden is Grown Grandchildren safe.”
“Nothing but dirt, and rain has been on those veggies!” she continued. “We want to help our friends and families have amazing memories like our family has had. We want to add more flowers and great food to those memories as well. We hope to see you soon on the farm, not too far from the city.”
In 2010, Aubrey Vineyards began creating wine varieties in the heart of the Midwest. approximately 200 acres in southern Overland Park, Johnson County, Kansas, right near the state line. Much of the land was and still is being used by crop and livestock farmers. On the way back from a trip to Napa, a local Johnson County family realized the land could also be used to grow grapes and produce wine.
In 2012, vines were planted, and grapes began to grow, establishing Aubrey Vineyards as the first winery in Overland Park. The vines are planted on land with the highest elevations around that contains gentle slopes of fertile, loamy soil low in clay content, which is the perfect environment for grapevines. The high location affords breezes on most days, which helps ward off vine diseases. Slopes with porous loam keep the soil well-drained.
The vineyard property was purchased in Aubry Township, which was originally named after a French-Canadian trail rider, François Aubry. This charming vineyard offers a
variety of spaces for private events, whether you are seeking a private event for a larger group or an intimate event for a small group of friends, Aubrey Vineyards offers many options to create a memorable experience.
KC Pumpkin Patch in Olathe is a treasured destination for many families with special year-round events including Cider Fest, OKCtober Fest, Sunflower Festival, Mutts & Merlot, craft nights and more. Owners Kirk and Julie Berggren moved to this location with the intention of expanding their pumpkin fields. Their daughter, Taylor, suggested they take advantage of the small vineyard on the property. After several years of hard work and preparation, they transformed it into KC Wine Co.
They have an array of event spaces to meet any need, be it a bridal shower, bachelorette party, birthday, family reunion, retirement party, corporate event or a luncheon. Thirty minutes from downtown KC, you’ll enjoy picturesque vineyard views that provide the perfect backdrop for every one of these celebrations.
Spaces include the Mezzanine, offering bar-height tables and speakeasy lounge seating. Or rent the Black Barn, which seats 300! The Barrel Room has its own cozy vibe. “We can’t wait to help you celebrate!” they noted.
Amy Roberts, owner of Serendipity Farm and Vine, is a Kansas City native.
Over the past few years, she started a journey to find something she was passionate about and enjoy it with her family. Inspired to live without regrets, she realized that she has always been passionate about land. Almost as if by serendipity, she came across the beautiful, serene acreage in Stilwell, Kansas. She fell in love instantly and named it Serendipity Farm and Vine.
This picturesque wedding and event venue features multiple beautifully renovated barns, each full of rustic charm and character. Guests can enjoy the cozy wine and coffee tasting room along with delicious food. The She Shed is a uniquely elegant, four-bedroom, four-bathroom barn blending rustic sophistication with modern comfort.
“Whether you're planning a wedding, hosting an event, looking for a serene getaway, or just want to come with friends or family to enjoy all the tasting room offers, Serendipity Farm and Vine is a beautiful backdrop for any occasion,” Roberts smiled.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS | PHOTOGRAPHY
“We don’t fix families, they aren’t broken,” Doc says. “We fix the systems that fail them.”
A pediatrician turns grief into the nation’s largest disability day camp and a lifeline for local families.
It didn’t start in a boardroom. It began with a dad trying to keep his son safe in public. Dravet Syndrome, profound autism, strangers’ stares, and five separate police encounters that spiraled because people didn’t understand what they were seeing. When Mark tragically passed at five and a half, his parents, both pediatricians, made a decision: build what families like theirs never had.
SOAR Special Needs began with respite nights. Practical. Unflashy. Life-saving. Parents drop off their child, and for three hours, they remember they are also partners and people. One early evening, a mom returned in tears: it was the first time in fifteen years she’d eaten dinner alone with her husband. He quietly admitted he’d scheduled a meeting with a divorce attorney for Monday. He canceled. Thirteen years later, they’re still together. That’s the kind of impact SOAR chases on purpose.
Today, SOAR Camp runs two week-long sessions each summer, one on the Missouri side and one in Johnson County, welcoming campers ages 3 to 77. In 2025, 217 campers were supported by more than 650 volunteers. Every camper is paired 1:1 with a trained buddy, backed by a full medical and behavior team. The question is never “Can we handle this child?” It’s “What do we need in place so this child can fully participate, and actually be a kid?”
That medical backbone stays intentionally invisible. It’s there when a child with a trach and ventilator spends the day painting, playing in water, and laughing with a new friend, while his mom can relax. It’s there when seizures happen, tube feeds run, diabetes is monitored, and bathroom care is handled with dignity. Medicine keeps you alive; SOAR is in the business of life.
The impact extends far beyond summer. Year-round, SOAR hosts teen and adult social clubs, a prom, a fashion show, and sensory-friendly Truck-or-Treat, Sensory
Santa, and EGG’Stravaganza. Caregiver support groups create space to exhale. New adult programs focus on employment readiness, like 3D printing, and micro-enterprise, because three taboo questions haunt every special-needs parent: Will my child ever provide for themselves? Who takes care of my child when I’m gone? And who takes care of me?
Advocacy sits at the center. Dr. Stephen “Doc” Hunsley shares that they have helped more than 700 churches, parishes, and synagogues in the U.S. and 23 countries build inclusive ministries. Hope and belonging aren’t extras; they’re lifelines. Families can’t thrive if the community shuts its doors.
The needs are big and immediate. Families pay $499, but it costs roughly $1,500 per camper to do this right. Programming runs at a $7–8 million scale on a budget under $500,000. Volunteers determine capacity (SOAR targets three to four per camper). Accessible, flexible facilities are hard to secure. And disability—the largest minority in America—rarely makes headlines, leaving too many families unaware that help exists.
Here’s what changes the equation: you.
Volunteers ages 12 and up (younger kids serve with a parent). The only prerequisite is the simplest one: Can you be a friend? SOAR trains you. Medical professionals such as nurses, therapists, and allied health professionals are the backbone that makes full inclusion safe. Monthly donors (“Friends of SOAR”) stabilize the foundation so every other dollar can go straight to programming. Board members and connectors open doors to facilities, sponsors, grants, and media. Businesses can donate food for camp, offer space, sponsor events, provide jobs and internships, or underwrite adaptive equipment. Universities (nursing/OT/PT) can place students for hands-on clinical experience that matters.
“We don’t fix families, they aren’t broken,” Doc says. “We fix the systems that fail them.” The magic isn’t changing kids. It’s changing how the world sees them so they can do what they were made to do. Let them soar. And bring the rest of us with them.
Sweet and Savory Recipes to Celebrate November
Bake your way into the season with a Spiced Apple & Maple Leaf Pie for dessert, and a Savory Turkey, Butternut & Sage Lattice Pie that transforms
leftovers into a comforting main dish. Each pie is not only a feast for the palate but also a centerpiece worthy of your fall table.
Filling:
• 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp allspice
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp butter (to dot before baking)
Filling:
• 1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp milk)
• Optional: turbinado sugar for sprinkling
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare apples: Peel, core, and slice apples. Toss with lemon juice in a large bowl.
2. Mix filling: Add sugars, cornstarch, spices, salt, vanilla, and maple syrup to apples. Mix and let sit for 15 minutes.
3. Prepare bottom crust: Roll out one crust and place in a 9” pie dish. Fill with apple mixture, dot with butter.
4. Decorate top crust: Roll out second crust and cut out leaf shapes using cookie cutters. Arrange in overlapping pattern over the filling (like the center pie in the image).
5. Bake: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes until golden and bubbly. Cover with foil if edges brown too quickly.
6. Cool: Let sit at room temp for at least 2 hours before slicing.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
CONTINUED >
Filling:
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked turkey (chopped or shredded)
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed and roasted
• 1 cup spinach (fresh or thawed frozen)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp chopped fresh sage (or ½ tsp dried)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg
Crust:
• 1 double pie crust (savory or traditional)
• Egg wash
1. Sauté base: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
2. Build filling: Stir in flour to coat onion/garlic. Slowly add broth and cream to form a light sauce. Add turkey, roasted squash, spinach, sage, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Let cool slightly.
3. Assemble pie: Roll out bottom crust in pie pan. Fill with savory mixture.
4. Create lattice: Roll out top crust and cut into strips. Create a woven lattice top like the one in the image. Seal edges and crimp as desired.
5. Bake: Brush crust with egg wash. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve: Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. Pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce or a green salad.
“Each pie is not only a feast for the palate but also a centerpiece worthy of your fall table.”
A gift through Snow Ball ensures that more than 74,000 people will have access to food for their families; a safe place to sleep; job skills to earn a livable wage; and most importantly, hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Please consider joining us!
$0.91 of every donation goes directly to 25+ programs offered by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas that lift families from poverty, provide crisis support and create lasting change.
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
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ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
From Kansas pastures to Kansas City plates, Booth Creek Wagyu delivers world-class beef and unforgettable experiences—whether dining out, cooking at home, or gifting for the holidays.
When it comes to beef, few names resonate with quality and craftsmanship like Booth Creek Wagyu. With roots in Manhattan, Kansas, and storefronts in Prairie Village and Overland Park, the brand has built a reputation for delivering an experience that is as much about tradition and care as it is about world-class taste.
Booth Creek Wagyu originated in Manhattan, where the ranch continues to raise and oversee every aspect of cattle care, feeding, and management. “That foundation is what allows us to bring Wagyu from our pastures directly to our customers’ tables with complete confidence in its consistency and taste,” the team explains. The local storefronts serve as a natural extension of that mission, bridging the ranch’s Kansas roots with the metro’s vibrant food scene.
The city’s rich culinary culture, from legendary barbecue to a growing fine-dining scene, makes it the perfect backdrop for Wagyu. “Kansas City is a community that truly values food, hospitality, and local connection,” Booth Creek shares. The central location also keeps them close to their ranches while offering access to an enthusiastic community eager to embrace something new and elevated.
Booth Creek Wagyu stands apart because of its commitment to a vertically integrated model. Unlike many beef producers, they manage every step, from genetics and feeding to processing and retail. “That gives us complete control over quality, consistency, and transparency,” they explain. This holistic approach ensures that each cut carries with it a story of accountability and craftsmanship.
And then there’s the beef itself. Wagyu is famous for its extraordinary marbling, a fine web of intramuscular fat that delivers buttery tenderness and a melt-in-yourmouth experience. Booth Creek elevates that tradition with attention to genetics, animal welfare, and nutrition. For customers, “premier Wagyu” means beef that turns an ordinary meal into a moment worth celebrating.
Ribeye remains the undisputed customer favorite, followed closely by filet for special occasions. But adventurous food lovers are increasingly reaching for unique cuts like bavette, tri-tip, and picanha, options that bring versatility to weeknight cooking without sacrificing indulgence.
That same variety is winning over chefs across the city. Fox and Pearl serve Booth Creek’s Korean short ribs, while Meat Mitch Barbecue elevates its brisket tray with Wagyu’s rich flavor. Gordon Ramsay Steak, Local Pig, Loch Lloyd Country Club, and Hallbrook Country Club also feature Booth Creek Wagyu on their menus. The partnerships are vital: “Chefs are storytellers through food,” Booth Creek notes, “and when they feature our beef, it gives people a chance to experience Wagyu in creative and memorable ways.”
The feedback has been glowing. Diners often describe Wagyu as feeling like a special occasion every time. For Kansas Citians, there’s an added sense of pride, knowing world-class beef is raised right here in Kansas.
Beyond restaurant tables and home kitchens, Booth Creek Wagyu has become a go-to holiday gift. “Wagyu is more than
just a meal; it is an experience,” they explain. Curated gift boxes, featuring classics like ribeye and filet, are shipped nationwide in insulated packaging to ensure every order arrives fresh and ready. Customers love the idea of gifting something that is both luxurious and personal—something to be shared, savored, and remembered.
Cooking Wagyu at home, they say, should feel like a celebration. Their advice? Keep it simple: a sprinkle of salt and pepper, a medium-rare finish, and sides that let the beef shine.
The future is just as ambitious as the flavor. Booth Creek Wagyu is preparing to launch local delivery in Kansas City, along with a membership program offering exclusive cuts and early access to unique experiences. Expansion into Texas is also on the horizon, a natural fit for a state that deeply values premium beef.
Through it all, Booth Creek Wagyu remains committed to its founding philosophy: combining Kansas-raised care with world-class quality. As they put it, “The Booth Creek Wagyu experience is about bringing people together over beef that feels both elevated and unforgettable.”
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