The GLC continues to advance its role in the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, and its industry segment, with an ideal balance of sportiness and elegance. Its body is wind-carved yet muscle-toned, with a long hood, confident stance, and a high degree of aerodynamic refinement. The Star-centered grille is delicately outlined in chrome, while the LED lighting, side windows and flared fenders all flow into a shape that’s sensual yet spacious. Browse available inventory and take a testdrive at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City South.
Letter from the Editor
As I sit down to write this letter with one of my dogs curled against me and one of my kids asking me to make him a late night meal, I can’t help but reflect on the beautiful chaos that fills my home with my kids and dogs. This month’s issue is dedicated to just that — the joy, the mess, the love, and the quiet or chaotic moments in between.
My house is especially full these summer days with my college kids home, but that is about to change. August is always a bittersweet month for me. The start of a new school year is on the horizon, and the busyness of fall sports is about to begin. This fall, two of my four kids are heading off to college. One just graduated college, and my youngest still has a few years at home. It’s a strange mix of emotions — pride, excitement, and a little sadness as I begin to let go and welcome this next stage of life. Saying goodbye, even temporarily, is never easy. But watching my children grow into themselves is one of my greatest joys and privileges.
Our pets, of course, offer their own kind of steadfast companionship and love. There’s something truly special about having a pet , They provide a kind of quiet (and sometimes not so quiet), unconditional love and loyalty that fills us in ways words can’t quite capture. They remind us to slow down, to play, and to be present. Their companionship soothes anxiety, lifts spirits, and brings a comforting sense of routine and purpose.
Whether or not you have children or pets in your life, the connection we form with animals, with each other, and with the community remind us of the importance of empathy, patience and compassion.
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—6: Stems: A Garden Soiree was held at The Overland Park Arboretum and celebrated 30 years of The Arts and Recreation Foundation of Overland Park. Guests enjoyed tastings from top local restaurants, refreshing beverages, and an evening filled with live music, artwork and entertainment.
Endless Summer
Summer Concert Series
EVERY SATURDAY IN AUGUST (7PM - 9PM)
Bring your friends and family to the hottest concerts of the summer!
Aug 2 : Joshua Tree
Aug 9 : Suburbans
Aug 16 : Thunder Road
Aug 23 : Elton Dan & The Rocket Band
Aug 30 : Soca Jukebox
Second Saturdays for Kids!
EVERY SECOND SATURDAY (10AM - NOON)
Free entertainment for mornings filled with play, laughter, and meaningful moments together.
Aug 9 : The Fairway with Friends (mini-golf)
Sept 20 : Build-Up Day
Wednesday Date Night
EVERY WEDNESDAY (6PM - 8PM)
Live music for a mid-week date night! Connect over a great line-up of pop/rock, country, and even reggae!
Guitars & Games
EVERY FRIDAY (6PM - 8PM)
Free live acoustic music and lawn games.
A Taste of Leawood
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 (7PM - 10PM)
Tickets on sale now for a private evening of dining under the stars with food and drinks from over 20 area restaurants, VIP experiences, and a concert in the center of it all. Link to purchase tickets at ATasteOfLeawood.com
Visit ParkPlaceLeawood.com for more details.
Park Place is located on the northeast corner of Nall Avenue & 117th St., just north of AMC 20 Theatre.
Leawood Rotary Labor Day 5K
Register now as a runner or sponsor for Leawood Rotary Labor Day 5k. Net proceeds from this annual fundraiser benefit both local and international charities. Due to construction along the previous years’ route, the September 1, 2025, race will start and finish at Leawood City Park, 10601 Lee Boulevard. Participants will receive an event shirt, finisher’s medal, cooling towel, refreshments, and more! https://leawoodlaborday5k.com
wcjcobgyn.com | 913-266-8927 alora@wcjcobgyn.com 8901 W 74th Street, Suite #1
Children can find peace in the saddle
A horse mirrors the mood of a child and that connection is invaluable
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
When a young person rides a horse, that horse can have an amazing calming effect on their mood. For anxiety, the horse is a mirror to whatever we are feeling while we sit on them or are around them, so they learn to control their emotions. This is what Susan Tullock has seen through her years of teaching kids to ride at Tullock Performance Horses.
The benefits are far reaching, and she has the insight to pair a horse with a child.
Some other benefits include increased fitness and health. Any sport brings physical health benefits, and riding a horse or pony is no different. This lessens the possibility of childhood obesity, and we all know the importance of getting children outdoors and involved as young as possible. Horseback riding is a great way for them to be outside in the fresh air, and it is healthy both mentally as well as physically.
Children learn life lessons and the value of perseverance, and when they are out in a new environment, they will make new friends. Riding can lead to social, life benefits and meeting new people can help develop life-long friends. It’s a way to make sure they have friends outside their school friend network.
Talk about a confidence booster! Learning to ride and care for an animal twice their size can empower children. It is a great confidence booster when a trainer encourages and compliments,
highlighting areas where they are gaining new skills and rewarding them for choosing improvement. Riding is suitable for all ages, and especially for children with special needs. Interaction with horses can really help.
“When a student comes to me, I make sure I have the appropriate horse that it is quiet and used to inexperienced riders,” she explained. “We go slow. Some children want you to lead them around and some are okay with just figuring out how to control the horse from the beginning.”
It is important that any trainer stays positive and encouraging and realizes everybody progresses at their own speed. Allowing children to find their own path through usually works best.
At her facility, most lesson programs are going to be an hour every week which equates to about 40 minutes of riding time in her program.
“I want my students to be safe learn and have fun and enjoy learning how to have a relationship with the horse,” she smiled. “I am always pushing my students to do more than they did at their last lesson, which builds self-confidence and common sense as they learn to do things on their own.”
Students that begin riding at an early age and through 4H level can progress to showing on a national level, and even competing at a collegiate level. This is a lifelong hobby and can enrich lives far into adulthood.
Children can often switch between English and Western riding and learn to maneuver the different types of seats. A good rule of thumb for parents is to find what you have access to in your area. The most important thing is a quality horse with quality tack. and a quality instructor.
Susan’s program is more riding based, and she believes it’s important when the kids are old enough
“I want my students to be safe learn and have fun and enjoy learning how to have a relationship with the horse.”
and strong enough, that they learn how to properly take care of their horses through picking of their hooves, proper grooming, how to clean their stalls and properly tack their horse.
“Usually, my students can trail ride before they would ever be ready to go in the show pen. Not all places that I teach have access to trails, and most people need to own or lease a horse to show,” she confirmed.
We are blessed to have a few local charities or non-profits in the Kansas City area that support rescue horses and/or equestrian therapy in our area. You can find them online.
Being around horses also teaches children about responsibility, kindness and compassion, and helps children understand that “someone else’s” needs have to be considered alongside and often before your own. This helps make the world a kinder place.
For information about Susan’s program and lessons, visit Tullockperformancehorses@gmail.com
Does Your Bank Truly Understand Your Business?
Leaders of growing Kansas City-area companies often reach an inflection point with their banks. Simple checking accounts that worked years ago now leave idle money on the table. Manual tasks that seemed manageable now consume hours of time. And the friendly local banker who handled everything personally was replaced by a call center.
This is where many KC businesses find themselves — too sophisticated for basic banking but not large enough to draw personal attention from their bank. When urgent banking issues arise, business leaders need local experts who know their business well enough to solve problems quickly, not generic customer service and endless phone trees. A bank with experienced, strategic partners who can automate payments, optimize cash management, and create efficiencies that free up the team to focus on growth instead of banking logistics.
Led by Kansas City Market President Justin Mahoney, Stephanie Cocherl, CTP, and Scott Crist, both Vice President II - Treasury Management at First Business Bank, have built their careers on helping middle-market companies bridge this gap with personalized, responsive service and treasury management expertise to match operational complexity.
Personalized Expertise That Delivers Real Results
While other banks assign clients to call centers, Stephanie and Scott become extensions of the finance team. Scott recently helped a manufacturing firm cut their weekly payment processing time from 15 hours to four hours through smart automation, freeing nearly a full day of productivity every week. Stephanie helped a professional services firm reduce check fraud risk while accelerating their receivables cycle, improving cash flow enough to fund a new sales position.
These success stories represent what happens when treasury management specialists actually understand companies’ business operations rather than slotting them into generic banking solutions. They focus on
middle-market companies because they’re often caught between basic banking and enterprise-level treasury operations.
Both with decades of experience helping KC-area businesses, they’ve solved virtually every treasury challenge with business clients of all sizes. From fraud prevention that alerts in real time to payment automation that eliminates manual errors, their expertise translates directly into operational advantages.
On top of that, First Business Bank is built to encourage them to learn about clients’ specific payment cycles, understand seasonal cash flow patterns, and spot efficiency opportunities that generic banking relationships miss entirely.
At the end of the day or after hours, Treasury clients have their cell phone numbers and can call them to help. This accessibility creates competitive advantages that extend far beyond customer service convenience.
A proactive approach means consistently identifying ways to improve financial operations. As payment technologies evolve and business needs change, they recommend solutions that keep clients ahead of operational challenges rather than reacting to them.
Treasury Management That Actually Works for Growing Businesses
The best treasury management relationships should feel effortless for business leaders. Payments flow smoothly, cash positions are clear, and teams focus on growing businesses instead of manual entry duties and managing banking logistics.
If your bank isn’t giving your business the personal attention you need to grow, get in touch with the experts at First Business Bank. Expert, personalized treasury management improves your daily operations and efficiency to support your growth objectives. As the bank built for business, they’re invested in your success.
L-R: Justin Mahoney, Scott Crist, Stephanie Cocherl
BREAKING THROUGH Barriers:
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
In the heart of Kansas City, Operation Breakthrough is doing more than just offering help—it’s building futures. With a mission to surround the city’s most vulnerable children and families with opportunity, care, and support, this nonprofit is transforming lives.
Each day, more than 750 children walk through the doors of Operation Breakthrough (OB), many from families surviving on less than $1,000 a month. These children face challenges that go far beyond the classroom. Homelessness, food insecurity, exposure to violence, and the trauma of losing loved ones are all too common. But at OB, they are met with a team that is ready to support every need—academic, emotional, physical, and social.
“Many of our kids have seen more than most adults,” says CEO Mary Esselman. “We start where the needs are greatest.” That means not only offering early education but also providing onsite health and dental care, mental health services, a food pantry, and a clothing closet. A licensed therapist or social-emotional specialist is available for children who need extra support. Teachers and nurses work hand-in-hand, tracking developmental milestones and tailoring education to each child.
“MANY OF OUR KIDS HAVE SEEN MORE THAN most adults ,” SAYS CEO MARY ESSELMAN. “WE START WHERE THE NEEDS ARE greatest .”
“VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS wrap their arms AROUND OUR FAMILIES,” SAYS ESSELMAN.
“THEIR friendship HELPS CREATE THE CONDITIONS FOR OUR FAMILIES TO GROW.”
This holistic approach is what sets Operation Breakthrough apart. It’s not just about helping children survive—it’s about helping them thrive.
Take, for example, the teen who joined OB’s workforce development program, The Ignition Lab, after losing four classmates to gun violence. Determined to change his path, he found mentors and career training at OB. He graduated as valedictorian and is now heading to college to study engineering.
Or the little boy who entered OB as an infant diagnosed with “failure to thrive.” After losing both parents, he was nurtured daily by OB’s dedicated team. Today, he’s a thriving preschool graduate, racing tricycles on the playground and making friends over slices of pizza.
These stories are made possible by the community. Volunteers and donors play a vital role—reading to kids, helping in the kitchen, mentoring teens, and donating essentials. Their involvement does more than meet immediate needs; it sends a powerful message: “You matter.”
“Volunteers and donors wrap their arms around our families,” says Esselman. “Their friendship helps create the conditions for our families to grow.”
Now in its 53rd year, Operation Breakthrough is a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together. And the impact doesn’t stop with the children. OB teens give back too—spending more than 15,000 hours each summer mentoring younger kids.
At Operation Breakthrough, success isn’t just measured in test scores or graduation rates. It’s seen in every child who learns to trust again, every teen who discovers their potential, and every family that begins to hope for a brighter future. And that’s what Operation Breakthrough is all about— empowering children and families to break through the barriers in their way and step into a future filled with possibility.
For more information on how to get volunteer and get involved, visit operationbreakthrough.org/
karakerstendesign.com | V @karakerstendesign infokarakerstendesign@gmail.com
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Wild Plains Children’s Boutique
Little Looks,
Big Style
Wild Plains is a playful children's boutique for little adventurers that's curated with heart, intention, and a love for childhood. Founded by Kristie Pettibone, it's a celebration of design, discovery, and Kansas roots.
“I always wanted to open my own store, but it wasn't until we had our son that I knew it was going to be a children's store. I had grown up going to Ranch Mart with my grandparents, and the moment I walked into the old frozen custard shop that closed in 2019 and sat empty that I could visualize my store. I then knew I wanted to create a meaningful space not just for shopping, but for kids to come play and run around freely.”
“My background is in graphic design, and I did design work for seven years,” says Pettibone. “I then wanted to get more into fashion and got a job at Halls doing in-store signage and visual merchandising at the Plaza and Crown Center locations. After leaving Halls, I worked for Winston Retail as a field merchandiser for Colombia, Helly Hansen, and Adidas golf. I then created my own freelance business doing window displays and visual merchandising for over 30 businesses in the Kansas City area.
“THE DESIGNS ARE INTENTIONAL, AND THAT IS WHAT I WANT MY STORE TO REPRESENT. I CARE ABOUT THE PEOPLE BEHIND MY BRANDS AND WANT TO SUPPORT THEM IN EVERY WAY I CAN.”
The store is visually split right down the middle—the “wild” side is a celebration of bold colors and whimsical prints, and the “plains” side is a calm embrace of soft hues and natural textures. It’s a balance of contrast that somehow feels just right, like the way kids can be loud and imaginative one minute, then quiet and thoughtful the next.
Designed in collaboration with Hufft Architects and Goebel Mitts Construction, the boutique feels more like a modern art installation than a typical store for children. Custom pegboards, modular tables, and a flowing wooden feature wall cut to mimic Kansas prairie grass blowing in the breeze add movement and depth. Even the kid-sized play Jeep, inspired by 1940’s Willys Military vehicles, is crafted with care from Baltic birch plywood, complete with steering wheel and license plate.
The boutique is for newborns through size 14 and carries over 50 handpicked brands from around the globe, most of which are family-run and deeply rooted in sustainability. From soft organic cotton onesies to standout gifts designed by local artists abroad, everything is chosen with care—not just for how it looks, but for how it feels and the story it tells.
“My personal style is unique, and I wanted to bring quality brands from all over the world to Kansas. I love going to New York to meet the designers and owners behind my brands. Most are small family-run businesses that are passionate about quality and children’s clothing. I go in-person so I can feel and touch the product—everything I carry I want it to be soft, comfortable, and made to withstand adventures.
“Some brands work with local artists in their country to create the collections, and there is always a story and meaning behind each season. The designs are intentional, and that is what I want my store to represent. I care about the people behind my brands and want to support them in every way I can.”
Wild Plains has garnered praise not just from happy parents, but from the design world too, winning both a Capstone award in retail from the Kansas City Business Journal and a Devine Detail award from the American Institute of Architects in Kansas City.
“Every detail is intentional, from the CNC routed wall that emulates the Kansas prairie grass, to the tags showing what country the clothes are designed in. I never wanted just a shop—I created Wild Plains to be a destination for both kids and parents alike.”
Wild Plains is located at 9421 Mission Road in Leawood.
For more information, visit shopwildplains.com
Uncovering Local Luxury at The Inn at Meadowbrook
Who knew your next favorite getaway was hiding right down the street? The Inn at Meadowbrook makes staying close feel like going far. Nestled in the heart of Prairie Village and surrounded by the rolling green beauty of Meadowbrook Park, this boutique hotel feels like a secret getaway made just for locals. Whether you’re a couple in need of a quiet night away, parents craving a kid-free escape, or looking for a family staycation with a touch of luxury, this place delivers.
Even before you step inside, The Inn at Meadowbrook’s calming charm starts to work its magic. The landscaping is pristine, the setting effortlessly serene, and for a second, you forget you're even in Kansas. The check-in staff is warm and welcoming, the kind of friendly where you can feel your shoulders drop a little. From the first few minutes, it’s clear, this isn’t your average hotel stay.
ARTICLE BY JAMIE SEGALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Inside, the charm continues. Right away, you’ll spot the wall of room keys, a little gallery that proves you’re in good company. Names like Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Chris Jones, and Alex Rodriguez hang there, reminders that some pretty famous friends have stayed here too. It’s a fun, unexpected touch that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a well-kept local secret.
And rightfully so, this hotel is equipped with fifty-four uniquely designed guest rooms and suites. The rooms themselves are spacious, elegant, and genuinely relaxing. With views overlooking the pond, a charming courtyard, Verbena restaurant, and Meadowbrook Park in the distance. It was the kind of view that made you pause and appreciate the beauty that exists right under our noses.
Inside, everything feels elevated but still cozy, like you’ve stepped into someone’s impeccably designed home. The artwork is beautiful and the linens and pillows? Unreal. If you’re a parent who dreams of one uninterrupted night of deep, luxurious sleep, this is it.
There’s also no skimping on the in-room luxuries: large walk-in shower, bamboo crème moisturizer, plush robes, and fridge to chill your beverages. A knock at the door brought bottled water and caramel candies. Simple, but delightful. Every detail at The Inn at Meadowbrook is thoughtful in that way, designed to make you feel taken care of.
Beyond the rooms, there’s even more to enjoy. The Inn at Meadowbrook features a seasonal outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and access to Meadowbrook Park’s winding trails, pickleball courts, and playgrounds, perfect for families looking to stretch their legs or couples wanting a leisurely morning stroll. There are also lawn games, cozy fire pits, and complimentary bikes ready for exploring the park. Every amenity is designed to help you relax, and of course, work up an appetite.
Dinner at Verbena, one of two restaurants onsite, is a highlight. The restaurant gives off breezy Cape Cod vibes, with fresh seafood options that live up to the atmosphere. From shrimp cocktail to trout and filet mignon, the food is without a doubt some of the best in the area. Paired with delicious cocktails, like a spicy Paloma or your choice of wine, this menu is a ten out of ten! Definitely the kind of meal that makes you want to linger.
And don’t miss the chance to explore The Market, The Inn at Meadowbrook’s café, where the smell of fresh coffee greets you before you even walk in. At breakfast, choose from one-of-a-kind
baked goods or something heartier like a breakfast bowl or burrito. The Market also serves up fresh lunch and dinner options with a side of live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
The beauty of The Inn at Meadowbrook is how well it balances luxury and comfort. It feels indulgent without being stuffy, stylish without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place that makes you fall in love with your own city a little more and makes you wonder why you don’t plan staycations like this more often.
Whether you're celebrating something special or just need a night to hit reset, The Inn at Meadowbrook is a staycation worth making time for. It’s a little indulgent, a lot relaxing, and completely unforgettable.
EATIN’ GOOD IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
ARTICLE BY LAUREN POWERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Nestled in the heart of Brookside, City Barrel Pizza + Patio is more than just another brewery; it’s a local love letter to beer, pizza, and community. As the second location from the team behind City Barrel Brewery + Kitchen in the Crossroads, this new spot brings approachable craft beers, playful food, and a patio built for everyone (including the pups).
“This space was meant to be a place where adults have nostalgic memories from their childhood, and are able to share them with their kids.”
Started by Joe Giammanco and friends, City Barrel was born out of a love of great beer, community, and tasty food. Joe, a Waldo/Brookside local for nearly two decades, felt called to give back to the neighborhood that’s given him so much. “City Barrel Pizza + Patio was started as a place neighbors and families can come together, where kids can play, and where all are welcome,” he shared.
Though their Crossroads location is known for its bustling downtown energy, the Brookside offshoot was built with a different vibe. “The main difference
is, of course, the pizza! We serve thin, chewy NYCinspired pizza on our huge patio, while serving great local crafted beers, refreshing patio cocktails, and hand-selected wines,” the team explained. “Our Waldo/Brookside location is perfect for families and groups of adults!”
The design of the space nods to a simpler time: “We wanted to channel an early 90’s Pizza Hut vibe, with a modern twist! This space was meant to be a place where adults have nostalgic memories from their childhood, and are able to share them with their kids.”
On the beer side, City Barrel continues to stand out in Kansas City’s crowded craft scene by leaning into bold, flavorful creations. “City Barrel’s RAD AF, an award-winning hazy IPA, is our most popular and celebrated beer,” they said. But there’s more than just hop bombs here. From the “RAD AF Creamsicle” to the “Strawberry Shortcake” and even a dry Irish stout inspired by the original Guinness recipe, City Barrel brews with playful curiosity. “Our slogan is ‘beer is fun!’ – because we think it is!”
And if you’re planning a visit this summer, make sure to try two of their seasonal standouts, the Chocko Taco and the Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy. “The Chocko Taco is especially unique, with flavors of vanilla and chocolate to create the perfect way to start or end a meal, while the Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy is a crisp and refreshing Kolsch with flavors of lemon peel that make this drink perfect for the last of the summertime heat.”
While beer is front and center, the food is far from an afterthought. “Have you ever craved something comforting that also surprises you? That's our sweet spot,” they said. Dough is made fresh daily, then fermented for 24 hours to get that perfect NYC-style crust. Fan favorites include the Chicken Bacon Ranch pizza with house-made RAD AF ranch, the balsamic-drizzled Margherita, and the classic Pepperoni “with the crispy crunch of the caramelized edges on our cupping pepperonis.” Pro tip: add their house candied jalapeños for a Sweet Heat twist.
And yes — they know how to pair. “Pizza and beer are a combo like PB&J! Our Spicy Margarita cocktail is made with jalapeño simple syrup, a product made in-house with our candied jalapeños, and goes so well with our Sweet Heat pizza. Feels like a family reunion in your mouth!”
“Pizza
and beer are a combo like PB&J! Our Spicy Margarita cocktail is made with jalapeño simple syrup, a product made in-house with our candied jalapeños, and goes so well with our Sweet Heat pizza. Feels like a family reunion in your mouth!”
Families will appreciate the relaxed daytime atmosphere, complete with patio games, an arcade room for older kids, and plenty of space to run into familiar faces. It’s the kind of spot where a casual lunch can quickly turn into an impromptu neighborhood hangout, while parents unwind with a cold cocktail or a local favorite like RAD AF.
Dogs aren’t just allowed, they’re spoiled. The pet-friendly patio includes a specialty dog menu with clever treats like “The Cheese Tax” and “Pupper Nutter,” a peanut butter delight that’s almost tempting enough for humans. It’s one more way City Barrel makes everyone feel welcome, four legs or two.
The Brookside neighborhood has welcomed City Barrel Pizza + Patio with open arms. On any given day, the bike rack outside is packed — not just with bikes, but with strollers and wagons too. The team has also leaned into local partnerships, working with nearby schools, supporting animal rescues, and collaborating with small businesses to keep the community connection strong.
Looking ahead, they hope to expand into other family-focused neighborhoods around Kansas City, but for now, they’re exactly where they want to be: right in the heart of Brookside, serving up pizza, pints, and good times.
Unleashing Love
Kansas City is home to a vibrant community of animal lovers— and some truly remarkable organizations working tirelessly to give pets a second chance. Whether you're looking to adopt a new furry family member, support animal welfare, or simply learn more about local rescue efforts, these standout shelters and sanctuaries are making a real difference.
Great Plains SPCA Pet Adoption Center
A compassionate nonprofit offering pet adoptions, training and behavior support, and community outreach. Known for their dedicated staff, thoughtful adoption process, and commitment to making Kansas City a no-kill community. https://www.greatplainsspca.org/
Whether you’re looking to adopt a new furry family member, support animal welfare, or simply learn more about local rescue efforts, these standout shelters and sanctuaries are making a real difference.
Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary
Specializing in senior dogs, this sanctuary provides exceptional care—from medical treatment to rehabilitation. Their mission centers on treating every animal with kindness, dignity, and love.
https://www.alwaysandfurever.org/
KC Pet Project at KCCAC
A collaborative public-private shelter that takes in every animal in need. With high intake numbers, they’re focused on growing their foster network and improving services. They partner with other animal welfare organizations to increase the number of homeless pets adopted and focus on lifesaving programs.
https://kcpetproject.org/
Wayside Waifs
The largest no-kill shelter in Kansas City, offering adoption services, training, and outreach. They’re dedicated to making perfect pet-owner matches and providing continued support after adoption.
https://waysidewaifs.org/
The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City
Serving the community since 1912, this organization offers adoptions, low-cost veterinary care, and spay/neuter services. They also assist low-income families with essential pet care.
https://hsgkc.org/
The Pet Connection
A devoted rescue group providing adoption services and both group and private training. Their focus is on helping dogs thrive in the right forever homes.
https://www.thepetconnection.net/
“Voted
—Best of Johnson County 2025
“Voted
—Best of Johnson County 2025
Best Thai Restaurant!”
Best New Restaurant!”
Chef Penny Mufuka
This magazine is how Cristine redefined success.
This is more than a role; it’s a platform for purpose. City Lifestyle publishers step into something bigger: the freedom to lead, the fulfillment of impact, and the pride of building something that matters. The opportunity to lead with meaning is calling. Could your next chapter begin here?
Leawood City Lifestyle
Published by Cristine Loved by Leawood
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WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error,
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
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MALEK AZRAEL & THE VIBEZ
If you’ve been out and about catching live music in Kansas City lately, chances are you’ve heard the name MALEK AZRAEL & THE VIBEZ. Whether you caught their electric set at Boulevardia or streamed their newest release Feels Like..., this genre-blending band is turning heads.
Fronted by MALEK AZRAEL, a singer, songwriter, and producer with deep roots in the Midwest, the group is making waves with a sound that slips between indie rock, R&B, soul, and pop like it's second nature. The story of the band starts where many great collaborations begin: college.
“We all met while attending Kansas City Kansas Community College in the Audio Engineering degree program,” says MALEK. “The band was pieced together in almost a dream-like way. I had spent over a year recording my album ‘WAVES’ and decided I wanted real drums instead of digital, and I had met and bonded with Josh Luke over being from south Kansas City and he mentioned he played drums. I showed him my songs and he immediately wanted to record with me.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“Then I decided we needed an electric guitar when some of my classmates and friends suggested Calvin Haverkamp. I approached Calvin and showed him my songs and he also was moved by my project and wanted to record. After finishing the project a year later, we all realized that we had really made something beautiful. The idea then formed that we should have a release concert and make a band, so we got a bassist and had a release show. Ever since then we have played together, growing as friends and musicians.”
The pieces slowly came together, and by the time the first album was done, the group had become more than just studio collaborators—they had become THE VIBEZ, a band with a message and a mission.
From the very beginning, their goal has been to create music that’s honest, genre-defying, and rooted in the richness of human experience. It’s a lofty goal, but one they pursue with both purpose and passion. Each song feels like a chapter in a shared story about love, self-discovery, growth, and the beauty of living.
Whether they’re playing a small venue or a bustling street festival, their connection with the audience is undeniable. Their recent performance at Boulevardia was a prime example of this. The band’s latest release, Feels Like..., is another bold step forward. It's available now on all major streaming platforms and is paired with a visual project.
“The band’s latest release, Feels Like..., is another bold step forward. It’s available now on all major streaming platforms and is paired with a visual project.”
“We came together because we all aligned with the idea of making music that was honest, challenged the boundaries of genre, and captured the human experience in its variety and complex nature.”
As they continue carving out their place in the Kansas City music scene and beyond, it’s clear that this isn’t just a band riding a trend. This is a group with something to say—and the sound to back it up.
“We came together because we all aligned with the idea of making music that was honest, challenged the boundaries of genre, and captured the human experience in its variety and complex nature.”
So if you’re looking for new music or a live show that leaves a lasting impression, keep your eyes (and ears) on this local band. The journey is just getting started, and it’s already something special. MALEK AZRAEL & THE VIBEZ will perform live on August 22nd at The Ship located in the historic West Bottoms neighborhood at 1221 Union Ave in Kansas City. Follow on Instagram @malekazrael and stream on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
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