Lee's Summit, MO October 2025 by City Lifestyle

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Welcome Fall!

As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures cool, our cravings shift toward comforting flavors that warm both body and soul. October is one of our most delectable issues of the year, and this month we’re celebrating the food and drink that makes our city such a delight for the senses.

We had the pleasure of visiting A Thyme For Everything where we discovered an exceptional selection of kitchen supplies perfect for cooking and entertaining, alongside specialty food items that include a substantial gluten-free selection. They have a full commercial kitchen tucked into the back of the store designed to expand your culinary skills through their cooking classes. A Thyme For Everything offers experiences beyond the retail experience alone.

There’s something special about coffee shops that also serve food—it elevates the entire experience of enjoying a cup of coffee. The simple visual of a steaming coffee paired with a fresh danish or a perfectly glazed donut evokes a sense of warmth and comfort. It stirs up nostalgia, bringing back cherished memories of cozy mornings, sweet indulgences, and shared moments that make the ritual of coffee feel even more meaningful. I have had the pleasure of visiting two local businesses that offer the perfect combination of coffee and food that you might not expect.

Summer Moon Coffee is more than your average coffee shop. While best known for its bold and flavorful Oak Roasted Coffee and signature sweet cream Moon Milk, the menu surprises and delights with a full selection of breakfast favorites. From warm, flaky danishes to indulgent cinnamon rolls and even protein balls for a healthier grab-and-go option, every bite is crafted to pair perfectly with your favorite drink.

Baxter’s Coffee + Donuts - Lee’s Summit is far more than your typical donut shop. Along with their delicious donuts and pastries, they serve a full selection of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, plus a variety of made-to-order specialty drinks—ranging from rich Espresso and freshly brewed Coffee to refreshing Teas and indulgent Ice Cream Fraps.

As we fall into the food obsession season, I would encourage you to visit these businesses along with all of our other wonderful locally owned businesses in the food industry.

Here’s to savoring every bite this fall,

October 2025

PUBLISHER

Laura Paszkiewicz | laura@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Stephanie Williams | stephanie.williams@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Brett Benjamin | brett.benjamin@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

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 Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn

A Thyme For Everything

Where Downtown Charm Meets Culinary Creativity

Tucked in the heart of downtown Lee’s Summit, A Thyme For Everything is more than just a specialty retail shop. It’s a beloved local gathering spot where food, community, and creativity come together. Whether you’re stopping in for a unique kitchen gadget, shopping for premium chocolates, or spending an evening in one of their cozy cooking classes, the experience always feels personal and inspired.

As a locally owned business, the shop thrives on its close connection with the community. Customers know they’ll find hand-selected items that go far beyond the standard offerings at big box stores. From gourmet, gluten-free snacks to hard-to-find culinary tools, every product on the shelf is chosen with care—and usually taste-tested first.

One of the shop’s most popular features is its cooking class series, which has become a go-to option for date nights, girls’ nights out, or simply a fun evening learning something

new. Classes are intentionally kept small, creating a dinner party atmosphere where guests can interact with the chef, enjoy a full meal, and even make new friends. Most classes are demonstration-based, but hands-on experiences—like sushi rolling, pasta making, or the upcoming tamale workshop—add to the fun for those looking to get more involved. And yes, it’s BYOB, so feel free to bring your favorite wine to sip alongside the delicious food.

The chefs who lead these classes are a key part of what makes the experience special. This includes The Electrified Cooks, Kathy Moore and Roxanne Wyss, Chef Aristo Camburako, Chef Glen Cuchy, Chef Francesca, and the dynamic husband-wife duo, Chef Matt and Chef Sophia Chatfield.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

The store's gluten-free selection is another point of pride. Since the owners are gluten-free themselves, sourcing for dietary needs is not an afterthought—it’s built into the store’s DNA. Most of the food items on the shelves are gluten-free, with every brand carefully sampled and vetted before it’s offered to customers. This commitment even extends to the cooking classes, where chefs often adjust their menus based on customer requests and sensitivities. And then there’s the chocolate. Fans of fine sweets will swoon over the store’s curated chocolate case, which features six premium lines from across the country. Local

favorite Christopher Elbow chocolates are a highlight—artfully made in Kansas City and offered here without the drive. Other selections hail from California, Minnesota, and Georgia, each chosen for their rich flavors, beautiful presentation, and gluten-free ingredients.

First-time visitors to A Thyme For Everything should come ready to be surprised. Whether you’re discovering a locally made kitchen towel found nowhere else, picking out the perfect gift for a foodie friend, or booking your next cooking class, the shop offers a refreshing blend of specialty retail and heartfelt hospitality.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF TRUSTED SERVICE

When Brian Greenwald opened The Cleaning Authority in Lee’s Summit two decades ago, he saw more than just a business opportunity, he saw a chance to become part of a growing, close-knit community. “Lee's Summit was one of the fastest growing cities in Missouri, and it still is,” Brian says. “But it also had that small hometown, tight community feel, and that was something I wanted to be a part of.”

Twenty years later, that decision has clearly paid off. With 500 loyal customers and a reputation for consistent, high-quality service, The Cleaning Authority has become a trusted name in homes throughout the area. Brian attributes much of their long-standing success to a combination of strong community support and an equally strong team. “We’ve had a loyal customer base and a strong workforce that keeps us going year after year.”

What sets The Cleaning Authority apart from other services isn’t just their reliability, it’s the system and philosophy behind their work. “We have a strong, loyal staff and a proven cleaning system,” Brian explains. “We teach our employees not to rush, but to clean efficiently. That makes a big difference.” He’s referring to their signature “Detail Clean Rotation System,” a methodical approach that ensures every area of a client’s home receives detailed attention on a regular schedule. After an initial deep clean, homes are maintained through rotating focus areas, providing a thorough yet manageable cleaning plan that customers have come to rely on.

Consistency, it turns out, is the cornerstone of customer satisfaction. “Our customers want things done a certain way—same day, same time if possible—and we make that happen,” Brian says. He emphasizes the importance of communication between the office team and clients. “The more communication, the smoother things go.”

Trust is another key ingredient in the company’s formula. With teams entering private homes every day, clients need to feel confident in who they’re inviting in. “Trust starts from the top down,” Brian notes. “We have to deliver what our customers are paying for, every time.” While he admits no one is perfect, he stresses that consistent quality and professionalism are non-negotiable. The Cleaning Authority is fully insured and bonded which is something Brian believes offers clients added peace of mind. “We have the best possible insurance money can buy. That helps reassure our clients they’re in good hands.”

Beyond their commitment to service, The Cleaning Authority is also deeply rooted in the local community. From joining the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce to partnering with local business groups, the company has always sought meaningful ways to stay connected. Brian was part of a small team that urged the national franchise to do more for local communities. That conversation led to the creation of TCA Cares, a nonprofit initiative that has since made a significant impact.

IN LEE’S SUMMIT

One of their most visible contributions is an annual food drive supporting Coldwater of Lee’s Summit, the local food pantry. “We drop off branded paper bags to our customers once or twice a year and pick them up filled with food,” Brian explains. “Over the years, we've probably collected more than 16,000 pounds locally and over 1,300,000 pounds nationally.” They also partner with organizations like Midwest Foster Care and Adopt, Community Services League and Lee’s Summit Social Services. Most recently they began to offer a limited number of free cleanings for cancer patients through Cleaning for a Reason. It's a clear example of how a local business can do more than just serve customers but can serve its community, too.

As for what’s next, Brian plans to keep doing what he’s always done: grow steadily and stay committed. “We continue to slowly grow our customer base, but we have no plans to exit,” he says.

After 20 years of service, The Cleaning Authority remains a trusted name not just for clean homes, but for community values and consistency. “It’s all about doing the right thing, every time,” Brian says—and after two decades, that philosophy is still cleaning up nicely.

BrewARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

& Bite

Tucked away in the heart of Lee’s Summit, Summer Moon Coffee has quickly become a local favorite. Since opening in 2023, this family- and woman-owned business has been serving up more than just handcrafted drinks and pastries; it’s been building community, one cup at a time.

The menu at Summer Moon offers a thoughtful balance of sweet and savory, crafted to delight a wide range of tastes. Their food offerings are made in partnership with local bakeries and chefs who share their passion for quality. Only the freshest ingredients make the cut, resulting in a menu that feels both elevated and approachable.

at Summer Moon in Lee’s Summit

Guests will find a variety of options, from warm, flaky cinnamon rolls and themed sugar cookies to hearty breakfast burritos that have earned a loyal following. The authentic Mexicana burrito, packed with flavor and topped with a house-made Verde salsa, is a standout item. “Those burritos are gone fast, so people know to come early,” says Shelly Graham, owner of Summer Moon.

Also on the menu are bagels, kolaches, and satisfying breakfast sandwiches, along with gluten-free and vegan pastry options that ensure no one is left out. For a quick energy boost, the protein balls have become a go-to for busy customers on the move. And the cookie selection is anything but ordinary—rotating themes include Chiefs and Royals game days, seasonal holidays, and custom designs that often spark smiles before the first bite.

While the food and drink offerings are enough to draw a crowd, it’s the environment that keeps them coming back. Summer Moon has created a space that feels like home, whether customers are grabbing coffee on the go or settling in for a quiet morning with friends. “We wanted to create a place where people could slow down, connect, and feel cared for,” said Shelly. “Everything from the design to the drinks is part of that experience.”

Summer Moon’s signature drink menu features their famous Oak Roasted Coffee and sweet, creamy Moon Milk which is a proprietary blend made with seven secret ingredients. Both have become beloved staples in Lee’s Summit and beyond. CONTINUED

“WE

WANTED TO CREATE A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE COULD SLOW DOWN, CONNECT, AND FEEL CARED FOR,” SAID SHELLY. “EVERYTHING FROM THE DESIGN TO THE DRINKS IS PART OF THAT EXPERIENCE.”

Originally launched in Overland Park in 2021, Summer Moon expanded into Lee’s Summit to meet growing demand and bring their unique coffee experience to more people. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.

“We’re proud to be a part of Lee’s Summit,” explains Shelly.. “The support we’ve received here has been amazing. It feels like home.”

With a focus on quality, community, and a genuine love for what they do, Summer Moon is more than just a coffee shop— it’s a gathering place where great food and meaningful connections are always on the menu.

A Taste of Home at Baxter’s

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

“

“We want guests to have their go-to favorites, but also be surprised by how much the menu has to offer.”

Step through the doors of Baxter’s, and you’ll immediately feel the special blend of comfort and energy that makes this Lee’s Summit gem more than just a donut and coffee shop. It’s a place where regulars are greeted by name, where the coffee is always fresh, and where a pastry case full of temptation beckons you to pause, stay awhile, and savor the moment.

At Baxter’s, the experience begins long before the first sip of coffee or bite of a donut. The atmosphere is bright and familiar, filled with conversation, the smell of freshly baked pastries, and the kind of warmth that only comes from a team who genuinely loves what they do.

One of the things that sets Baxter’s apart is its all-day menu, designed to match the rhythm of your day. Whether you’re swinging by for a strong morning espresso and a savory breakfast sandwich, or you’re stopping in later for a BLT and a side of donut holes, the options are always delicious, and never an afterthought.

“Our goal was to offer variety without compromising quality,” Scott Opoka shares. “We want guests to have their go-to favorites, but also be surprised by how much the menu has to offer.”

While all of Baxter’s donuts are made fresh and with serious care, there’s one in particular that’s achieved local legend status: the apple fritter. With its crisp, golden edges, tender bites of apple, warm cinnamon notes, and a glossy glaze that’s just the right amount of sweet, it’s the kind of treat that brings people back again and again.

“People tell us it tastes like comfort, and that’s exactly what we’re going for.”

The beverage menu at Baxter’s goes far beyond the usual coffee shop lineup. Yes, the espresso drinks

are expertly crafted, but it’s the creative blends that often steal the spotlight.

Take the Ice Cream Turtle Mocha, for example. It’s indulgent, playful, and packed with flavor which is a perfect representation of Baxter’s approach to drinks: thoughtful, unique, and always satisfying.

“We wanted our drinks to be as memorable as our pastries,” Scott explains. “Something that people crave, not just something to wash down a donut.”

What truly makes Baxter’s stand out, though, is its balance. It’s a place that manages to feel both cozy and dynamic. The morning rush buzzes with the energy of regulars grabbing their favorites, while lunchtime eases into a slower, more relaxed vibe that is ideal for catching up with a friend or enjoying a quiet moment.

Throughout it all, the heart of the shop stays the same: great ingredients, a passionate team, and an unwavering commitment to quality and care.

Baxter’s also keeps things fresh with rotating seasonal specials that reflect the time of year and keep guests coming back for more. Fall brings pumpkin-spiced treats, spring delivers bright lemony delights, and summer cools things down with refreshing drinks perfect for warm afternoons. Even winter has its charm, with rich hot chocolate that warms you from the inside out.

Dan Vander Beek, the head of pastry and donut making, brings over 40 years of experience. He joined Baxter’s after his family sold their longtime pastry business in Pella, Iowa.

From the friendly faces behind the counter to the care baked into every item, Baxter’s brings something truly special to the community. So next time you’re in the area, step inside and see why Baxter’s has quickly become a beloved part of the Lee’s Summit food scene.

Rush THE BROTHERS:

Kansas City’s Basketball Royalty

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

There’s something about Kansas City that breeds hometown pride and loyalty. It’s a city with deep roots, strong families, and the love of all things local—whether jazz, barbecue, sports, locally crafted items or beloved legends. For the Rush brothers—JaRon, Kareem and Brandon—those roots ran deep enough to take three boys from the inner city to basketball greatness.

For those who remember the late ‘90s basketball scene, the Rush name still rings out with a certain reverence. Long before they played on college and NBA courts, JaRon, Kareem, and Brandon Rush were just three kids from the inner city, playing at the Boys & Girls Club gyms, unknowingly paving a way into local sports history. Their mother, working multiple jobs, would drop them off for safety and structure, but it quickly became clear that something special was happening, especially with the oldest, JaRon.

By the time JaRon was ten, he was dominating the court. He soon caught the attention of coaches around the city and met Tom Grant, a local Kansas City business man who sponsored AAU programs and the team that became their launchpad. “Mr. Grant, God rest his soul, was a key reason we got our start,” Kareem recalls. “That’s how we got noticed, and ultimately, how we landed at Pembroke Hill in seventh grade and eighth grade.”

Pembroke Hill, an elite private school, was a world away from their previous school environments. “It was definitely a culture shock,” Kareem says. “We were inner-city kids, so Pembroke was different for us, but our experience in AAU helped. We were used to playing with kids from all backgrounds, so we adjusted quickly. Pembroke was an amazing experience. All of my closest friends are still my Pembroke boys.”

The academic and cultural exposure at Pembroke changed their outlook. “It wasn’t just about basketball,” he adds. “Pembroke let me explore other interests. That shaped me just as much.” But basketball was always the headline. JaRon, the eldest, was a prodigy. Kareem followed closely behind, driven by classic sibling rivalry. “You always want to be better than your big brother,” he laughs. “And then Brandon came along, trying to one-up both of us.” Together, JaRon and Kareem turned Pembroke into a powerhouse. They delivered three state championship titles in a row and filled local gyms with fans who knew they were watching something rare. Scouts and coaches from the most prestigious college basketball programs frequently attended games.

All three brothers eventually took their own collegiate path, carving out unique legacies.

JaRon, the eldest, was one of the most heralded high school prospects in the country and landed at UCLA, where his game was a natural fit for the West Coast. Kareem stayed closer to home, choosing Mizzou over KU after the Jayhawks pulled back on recruiting JaRon—a move that had ripple effects through the Rush family.

“KU had stopped recruiting JaRon, so I told people I’d never go there,” Kareem says. “I probably would have followed him if they had. But when I stayed home and went to Mizzou, it worked out. Quinn Snyder had just taken over, and I felt a real connection.” Kareem was recently inducted into the Mizzouri basketball hall of fame for his impact and contributions to the program.

Brandon, the youngest, eventually broke the KU barrier, playing for the Jayhawks and becoming a key part of their 2008 national championship team. “We didn’t have a rivalry,” Kareem says. “It just made sense for Brandon. And for him to go on and win both an NCAA title and an NBA championship was special.”

The younger brothers made it to the NBA, both 1st round draft picks—Kareem with the Lakers in 2002, where he shared a locker room with Shaq and Kobe (including a Finals run in his second year), and Brandon with the Pacers in 2008 and most notably with the Warriors, where he was part of the Championship team in 2015. “Watching Brandon go on and win at both levels—it felt like a win for all of us.”

For a single Kansas City family, it was a remarkable feat.

LIFE AFTER THE GAME

JaRon is now deeply embedded in player development. He’s built a successful training program, Rush Training works with hundreds of kids developing basketball and life skills. Brandon has dabbled in coaching and training, keeping close to the game that gave so much to their family. Currently coaching his oldest son's basketball team and is an avid golfer. Kareem, a deeply creative and innovative entrepreneur, took a different route. In 2023, Kareem launched his own bourbon label. What started as Educated Spirits has since

“But what we’re really selling is the connection people have with their school. It’s about those Saturdays on campus, the March Madness runs, the tailgates. Bourbon just gives us a way to bottle that feeling.”

rebranded as University Spirits. It’s a business rooted in nostalgia, legacy, and the spirit of college basketball.

UNIVERSITY SPIRITS

“I got pitched an idea to start a spirit brand,” Kareem says. “I’m a bourbon guy, so it made sense. But instead of doing it for just me, I thought: what if we built a brand around college legends? Around the rivalries, the fan bases, the schools we love?”

That idea took off. University Spirits now creates limited-edition bourbon collections tied to specific universities and their most beloved alumni. So far, KU and Mizzou have gotten the treatment. The brand will expand to include other schools, including Kentucky, Louisville, Maryland, Purdue, K-State, Wichita State, UMKC, and SLU. There's also a broader retail rollout coming soon starting with Gomer’s in Kansas City and hopeful placement in other Kansas City retailers like Made in KC.

Kareem isn’t just the face of the brand. He’s the designer, the marketer, the connector. “I’m involved in every part, from the mash bills to the bottle design,” he says. “Even the artwork on the labels—that’s all me.”

Each bottle is designed with thoughtful touches. There are also signature glasses, and even “golden ticket” promotions

hidden inside where fans can win a chance to attend games with former college stars. Premium gift boxes under the Giftitude label are available, a new business Kareem co-founded with his partner, Brooke Marsalla.

“The juice is great, we source from big brands like Wild Turkey, Buffalo trace and I loved crafting my own blend. It definitely stacks up with anything out there,” Kareem says. “But what we’re really selling is the connection people have with their school. It’s about those Saturdays on campus, the March Madness runs, the tailgates. Bourbon just gives us a way to bottle that feeling.”

University Spirits is expanding quickly, with plans to launch in major college towns across the country. Each new market opens up a chance to reconnect players with their fan bases and offer a product that feels personal, not just profitable.

Later this year, they’re debuting a mobile bourbon lounge which is a tailgate-ready shipping container that converts into a bar, complete with a rooftop basketball hoop and cocktail station. “We’ll bring it to campuses,

games, company events—you name it,” Kareem says. “It’s gonna be a whole vibe.”

Beyond bourbon, phase two of Kareem's business plan includes University Roast, a coffee line created in partnership with Kansas-based PT’s Coffee. Just like the spirits, each roast will feature unique labels tied to different schools and players, with single origin beans for the “legendary” tier.

Five percent of proceeds from University Spirits go toward scholarship funds at participating schools. Kareem still volunteers with the Boys & Girls Club and other youth programs, and finds time to speak to kids about finding purpose after sports.

“I’m proud of my basketball career,” he says. “But I’m even more proud of how I’ve kept building since then— rebranding myself and launching my businesses, and just staying locked in on what really matters.”

Visit universityspirits.com for online ordering, custom gift sets, bourbon accessories, and upcoming releases. Local availability is expanding—starting with Gomer’s in KC. And yes, bottles will be signed.

Stacked for Fall

THE SEASON’S BEST SANDWICHES

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

There’s something deeply satisfying about a well-made sandwich—especially when it comes together with minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. As the season changes and appetites grow heartier, fall is the perfect time to get creative with ingredients tucked between slices of crusty bread or buttery rolls. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your lunch routine, enjoy comforting flavors and bold textures, or impress guests with a no-fuss meal, these easy-to-make sandwiches strike the perfect balance between simple and sensational.

Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream

Savory

INGREDIENTS

• 2 slices crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, French bread)

• 6 oz roast beef

• 2 slices provolone cheese

• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting)

INSTRUCTIONS

• 2 ½ tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp horseradish sauce

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Arugula

• Cherry tomato

• Caramelized onions

Toast the bread. Butter one side of each slice and toast in a skillet until golden. Heat roast beef briefly in a pan. To make the spread, mix mayo, horseradish sauce, and Dijon. Spread on the toasted bread. Layer roast beef, cheese, and broil briefly to melt. Add arugula, tomato, and caramelized onions if using. Top with the second slice of bread.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 grilled chicken breast

• 2 slices pepper jack cheese

• 2 slices cooked bacon

• 1 tbsp fruit jam (fig, raspberry, or jalapeño recommended)

INSTRUCTIONS

• A handful of fresh arugula

• 3–4 cherry tomatoes (halved)

• 1 tbsp garlic aioli

• 1 brioche bun (toasted)

Lightly butter the inside of the bun and toast in a skillet or oven until golden brown. Spread a layer of garlic aioli on the bottom bun. Add the sliced grilled chicken breast. Place the pepper jack cheese over the hot chicken to slightly melt it. Layer on the crispy bacon slices. Add halved cherry tomatoes and a small handful of arugula. Spread the jam on the top bun. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

• 3 oz goat cheese

• Fresh arugula

• ¼ cup caramelized onions

• 1 pear, thinly sliced

• Honey, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

• Butter for toasting the bread

• Rotisserie chicken breast thinly sliced

• Sourdough bread, buttered (optional)

Spread goat cheese on one side of the bread. Top the cheese with arugula, caramelized onions, sliced pears and chicken breast. Drizzle with honey. Top with remaining slice of sourdough bread. Use a griddle or panini press to heat the sandwich.

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Each month, Lee’s Summit CARES shines a spotlight on individuals in our community who embody outstanding character and integrity. These honorees are nominated by people who know them best— you —and are recognized for exemplifying the traits we value most.

Whether it’s kindness, leadership, resilience, or compassion, we celebrate those who lead by example and inspire others through their everyday actions.

ALL MONTHLY NOMINEES WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR SPECIAL RECOGNITION AT THE ANNUAL MAYOR’S CHARACTER BREAKFAST , WHERE SELECT INDIVIDUALS WILL BE HONORED BY THE CHARACTER COUNCIL FOR THEIR LASTING IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY.

KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT? NOMINATE THEM TODAY AND HELP US CELEBRATE THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY!

NOW ACCEPTING Nominations!

In addition, each year, the Annual Mayor’s Character Breakfast celebrates individuals and organizations who uplift our community through extraordinary service and unwavering character. Among these honors, the Carl Chinnery Ethics in Business Award stands as a tribute to the enduring impact of ethical leadership and integrity in Lee’s Summit’s business community.

WE ARE CALLING ON YOU—OUR RESIDENTS, LEADERS, AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS— TO NOMINATE A LEE’S SUMMIT BUSINESS THAT CONSISTENTLY DEMONSTRATES:

• Strong ethical leadership at every level of their organization

• A clear commitment to compliance, transparency, and integrity in business practices

• A culture of ethical and social responsibility.

• Ongoing community involvement that reflects a genuine desire to create a better Lee’s Summit for all.

To nominate an individual or business visit Lscares.org by November 1st.

Supporting Teen Mental Health During Exam Season

Exams are a normal part of a teenager’s academic journey, but for many, they can also be a major source of stress. A certain amount of pressure can be motivating, helping teens stay focused and on task. But when stress becomes overwhelming, it can take a toll on mental health, daily functioning, and overall well-being. As a parent, knowing how to support your teen through exam season—and when to seek help—can make all the difference.

Understanding Exam Stress

It’s important to recognize the difference between healthy and harmful levels of stress. A little nervousness before a big test is expected, and in fact, it can help sharpen focus and boost performance. However, when that stress lingers for days or weeks, it can begin to affect sleep, appetite, energy levels, and mood. Teens who constantly feel pressure to achieve or fear letting others down are at greater risk of experiencing overwhelming stress. The triggers can vary from one teen to another. For some, the challenge comes from balancing academics with sports, jobs, or extracurricular commitments. Others may struggle with time management, procrastination, or poor study habits. Social media often adds to the problem, as teens compare themselves to classmates or see only the highlight reels of their peers’ successes. Left unchecked, these stressors can build to a point where exams feel impossible to face.

Healthy Ways Teens Can Manage Stress

The good news is that there are effective ways to help teens cope during exam season. One of the most important strategies is to break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Rather than facing an entire textbook the night before a test, studying in short, focused sessions over several days can reduce pressure and improve retention.

Self-care also plays a critical role. Sleep, in particular, is often the first thing sacrificed during exam preparation, yet it is one of the most powerful tools for memory and concentration. Encouraging your teen to maintain a consistent bedtime routine can improve their ability to retain information and stay calm under pressure. Balanced meals and regular hydration help stabilize energy levels, while even moderate physical activity—like a walk around the block—can lower stress hormones and improve mood.

Relaxation techniques can also be very effective. Breathing exercises, meditation, or simply pausing for a few minutes to stretch can calm racing thoughts. Some teens may find creative outlets, such as drawing, journaling, or listening to music, to be their best form of release. Encouraging short breaks between study sessions helps prevent burnout and reminds teens that they are more than their exam results.

Recognizing When Stress Is Too Much

Every parent expects a certain level of nerves during exam season, but there are times when stress moves beyond typical test-day jitters. If a teen begins withdrawing from friends and family, loses interest in hobbies they once

enjoyed, or shows a sudden drop in school performance, these may be red flags that stress is becoming harmful. Emotional signs, such as frequent irritability, mood swings, or expressions of hopelessness, should not be dismissed as “just teenage behavior.”

Physical complaints are also common when stress becomes excessive. Persistent headaches, stomach aches, and trouble sleeping are all signals that the body is carrying more strain than it can handle. When these symptoms continue or intensify, they may indicate a deeper mental health concern, such as anxiety or depression. Parents should take these warning signs seriously and consider reaching out for professional support if stress is interfering with daily life.

How Parents Can Help

Parents play a vital role in helping teens manage stress in healthy ways. Creating a supportive environment at home can ease some of the pressure teens place on themselves. Simple reminders that self-worth is not tied to test scores can go a long way in reducing anxiety. When parents emphasize effort and persistence rather than perfection, teens are more likely to feel secure in their abilities.

Open and honest communication is also essential. Asking questions like, “How are you feeling about your exams?” can encourage teens to share what they are experiencing. The goal is not always to provide a solution, but to listen with empathy and without judgment. Sometimes, just knowing they are heard can relieve a great deal of stress.

It is also important for parents to recognize when stress has crossed into territory that requires professional attention. If a teen shows persistent sadness, ongoing anxiety, or any thoughts of self-harm, immediate help is needed. A pediatrician can guide families toward appropriate next steps, whether that means further evaluation, counseling, or other mental health resources.

Final Thoughts

Exam season can be stressful, but with the right balance of preparation, self-care, and support, teens can manage the pressure in healthy ways. Remember that tests come and go, but protecting mental health is a longterm priority.

If you are concerned about your teen’s stress levels or emotional wellbeing, schedule a visit with Community Choice Pediatrics Behavioral Health Services. Our team of expert mental health practitioners are here to provide guidance, resources, and support to ensure your child can thrive— not only during exams, but throughout their adolescent years.

Healthier Together, Always.

Pediatric Behavioral Health Services Open!

Is your child struggling with big emotions, worries, or feeling down as the new school year approaches? You’re not alone — and help is here.

Our pediatric behavioral health team is now accepting new patients ages 5–17! We provide compassionate, evidence-based support for concerns like Anxiety, Depression, Emotional outbursts, School stress and more.

Let’s make sure your child feels confident and supported when the first bell rings. Early support can make a big difference.