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Parkland, MO August 2026

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Kids & Pets

Kids & Pets Edition

There’s something about children and pets that has a way of putting life back into perspective. They remind us to laugh a little louder, worry a little less, and appreciate the moments that often pass us by too quickly.

As a mom of two energetic boys, I’ve come to realize that the things they’ll remember most won’t be the expensive gifts or perfectly planned vacations. They’ll remember roasting marshmallows on summer nights, building forts in the living room, judging cannonballs in the pool, and the loyal pets that were there through every stage of childhood. Those ordinary moments have a way of becoming life’s greatest treasures.

One of my favorite parts of publishing  Parkland City Lifestyle is getting to tell the stories of people who quietly make our communities stronger; revealing the stories you haven't heard yet. This month, you’ll find stories of neighbors who are advocating for children, celebrating the unique bond between people and animals, and creating spaces where our beloved pets receive the care they deserve. They may have different missions, but they’re all united by one thing...a genuine love for serving others.

Community has never been built by buildings or businesses alone. It’s built by families who show up for one another, by people willing to make a difference, and by the relationships that remind us we’re never meant to do life alone.

As you flip through these pages, I hope you’re reminded to slow down and soak in the season you’re in. Childhood is wonderfully fleeting, our pets never stay with us long enough, and neither should be taken for granted. They leave paw prints on our floors, fingerprints on our windows, and lasting impressions on our hearts.

Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your home each month. It is truly an honor to share the stories that make The Parkland such an extraordinary place to live.

Here’s to the kids who inspire us, the pets who love us unconditionally, and the community that makes both feel right at home.

August 2026

PUBLISHER

Lena Johnson | Lena.Johnson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kayle Nephew | kayle.nephew@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Addison Moore

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cheyenne Jordan Photography, Frozen Time Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

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Doing what the other guys have forgotten,

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Locally Owned & Family Operated

Reliable & Dependable Service

Commercial and residential waste removal at affordable prices.

Follow the

to learn more of his

Jackson’s Journey Foundation started in 2022 when Daniel Wood learned of his son’s Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia diagnosis.

This 100% non-for-profit organization aims to support all children affected by cancer and also provide financial support to our local families fighting this battle. The Woods family donates thousands of toys to St. Louis Children’s hospital to help put a smile on these brave little faces. You can help too, by donating toys to this amazing cause.

“Jackson’s Journey” Facebook page
amazing story.

city scene

1: 2026 Mr. and Mrs. Country Days winners; Jeremy and Jessica Horton 2: Cindy Triplett Backer is recognized for her 10 million in sales at the annual MABRA Awards Banquet 3: “Best Dressed” winners, Steve and Niki Osborn, attending United Way’s Derby Day 4: Ribbon Cutting celebrating Tammi Harwood-Slavens and her grand opening of National TV Sales and Rental 5: Golfers enjoying the annual Bonne Terre Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament 6: “The Dude Abides” performs at The Orris in Ste. Genevieve 7: Farmington Water Park celebrates their completion of their new renovations

FARMINGTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FARMINGTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COLDWELL BANKER HULSEY
PARKLAND CITY LIFESTYLE
FARMINGTON

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

New Ice Cream Shop in Fredericktown

Udderz Diner officially opened June 5 at 200 S. Main St. in Historic Downtown Fredericktown, bringing a nostalgic 1950s-style dining experience to Madison County. Housed in a beautifully restored former gas station, the new diner serves classic breakfast and lunch favorites, while the adjoining ice cream shop offers premium hand-dipped treats, shakes, malts and sundaes. Its retro charm and welcoming patio make it a fun new local destination.

MPWR Integrated Healthcare

Welcome to MPWR Integrated Health Center, a multidisciplinary facility of healthcare, rehabilitation, wellness, and fitness professionals dedicated to empowering individuals to take ownership of their health and performance. Citizens Spine & Sport, Potential Therapy Services, Primal Instinct Strength & Fitness, Farmington Fitness Training, Bluetail Medical Group, MH Aesthetics + Wellness and Moving Mountains Therapeutic Massage are all coming together to bring you their services under one roof. Follow them on Facebook to see the progress and watch for their grand opening.

Schlosser Orthodontics Relocates

On June 30th, Schlosser Orthodontics moved to 201 Hillsboro Rd in Farmington. This state of the art new facility can now serve even more patients in their brand new, beautiful office. Keep your eye out for the upcoming announcement to our ribbon cutting event. We would to see you there!

Photography by Madison County Chamber of Commerce
Photography by MPWR Integrated Healthcare
Photography by Schlosser Orthodontics

Feeling

MEET THE MOB

Discover how a local ranch is going viral and changing perceptions of emus through deep care and connection

The first impression of The Emu Ranch in Bonne Terre, Missouri, is defined by size and sound. Standing eye-to-eye with a six-foot emu is unforgettable, but it is the deep, resonant drumming that truly captures your attention. The guttural rhythm rolls across emerald pastures, creating an atmosphere that feels almost prehistoric. Moments later, a massive bird sprints effortlessly across the field before slowing to inspect visitors with curious, intelligent eyes. Any preconceived notions about emus quickly give way to fascination as their playful curiosity begins to shine through.

That sense of wonder is exactly what owners Thaddeus and Ariel hope every guest experiences. Established in 2024, the six-acre sanctuary grew from Thad’s longtime fascination with raising ratites. What began as a hobby has evolved into a thriving home for a mob of 45 emus, along with goats, chickens and a turkey named Butterball.

The ranch has also found an audience far beyond southeast Missouri. Ariel’s TikTok account has attracted more than 105,000 followers and over 25 million views by sharing daily life on the ranch—from educational videos about emu biology to lighthearted moments that showcase the birds’ personalities. Their mission is simple: help people see emus as intelligent, emotional animals rather than intimidating curiosities. Every post offers an authentic glimpse into life on the ranch, allowing viewers to witness the trust, routines and unexpected humor that come with caring for one of the world’s largest birds.

That mission becomes obvious within minutes of meeting the flock.

Herbert, Gertrude and Casanova have become the ranch’s unmistakable stars. Herbert eagerly approaches newcomers, tilting his head with an inquisitive gaze that almost demands a greeting. Gertrude watches over the flock with quiet confidence, while

Casanova lives up to his name each breeding season by strutting across the pasture with puffed feathers and dramatic flair.

Many of the birds have imprinted on Thaddeus and Ariel, actively seeking out human interaction and displaying remarkable trust. “They aren’t just livestock or a collection of animals to us; they are individuals with their own likes, dislikes and social standing within the group,” Ariel says. That understanding shapes every aspect of the ranch, from daily care to introducing new birds into the flock, ensuring each animal feels secure within the mob’s unique social structure. Spending even a short time with

the birds makes it clear that each one responds differently to people, reinforcing the couple’s belief that strong relationships are the foundation of exceptional animal care.

Caring for dozens of emus is as demanding as it is rewarding. The day begins around 6 a.m. with carefully balanced feedings that include specialized ratite feed, grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. Beyond nutrition, maintaining secure fencing is a constant priority. Emus are powerful runners and impressive jumpers, making sturdy, well-maintained enclosures essential.

“If you don’t have the right height and the right tension in your fencing, you don’t have emus for long,” Thaddeus says.

Hours are spent inspecting fences, reinforcing posts and preparing for the sanctuary’s next phase of growth. Their goal is to expand the ranch to safely accommodate 75 birds, a project requiring significant time, labor and investment. Every improvement is made with the birds’ long-term welfare in mind, ensuring they have room to roam, socialize and thrive in a safe environment.

The workload grows even heavier during breeding season. Five breeding pairs can produce dozens of forest-green eggs, each requiring careful collection before entering a closely monitored incubation process. After hatching, the striped chicks—affectionately called “weezers”—need weeks of attentive care to ensure healthy development. The same patience extends to rescue birds, which are gradually introduced into the flock so they can build confidence and find their place without unnecessary stress.

Looking ahead, Thaddeus and Ariel hope to expand their mission through educational programs and on-site tours. Families and students will have opportunities to feed the birds, learn about emu biology and conservation, and experience firsthand the intelligence and personality that make these remarkable animals so memorable. By creating meaningful, hands-on interaction, they hope visitors leave with a new appreciation for wildlife and a better understanding of the responsibility that comes with caring for animals.

One visit is often enough to change even the most skeptical minds. Behind their towering stature and prehistoric appearance are entertaining, expressive birds capable of forming meaningful bonds with the people who care for them. At The Emu Ranch, every interaction helps strengthen those connections, proving that understanding often begins with simply taking the time to look a little closer.

Fun Facts About Emus

• Size & Speed: Emus can grow to more than 6 feet tall and hit running speeds of 30 miles per hour.

• The Drumming Sound: Female emus produce a unique, signature deep drumming sound—a vibration you can feel.

• The Mob: A collective group of emus is known as a “mob.”

• Dedicated Dads: In the wild, male emus are responsible for incubating the eggs, often sitting on them for two months without leaving for food or water.

• Classification: Emus are part of the ratite family, alongside ostriches and rheas.

• The Emu War: In 1932, Australia’s infamous “Emu War” was a military attempt to control the population, only to be outsmarted by the resilient, flightless birds.

• Emerald Treasures: Emu eggs are famous for their stunning dark green, almost black, color and thick shells, which were traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for intricate carvings.

• Ancient Lineage: As ratites, emus have been around for approximately 80 million years, making them living links to the era of the dinosaurs.

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The right care makes all the difference. When wounds are cared for the right way, your body heals faster, stays protected from infection, and avoids long-term complications. Our team focuses on helping your skin heal beautifully while keeping you comfortable every step of the way.

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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE

Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.

Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.

Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.

“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”

Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.

After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”

The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.

Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.

Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

At Heartland Hearing Care, we believe life is richer when you can hear every moment.

Our owner, Kelli Kernan, has dedicated her career to helping people hear better, earning her Hearing Instrument Specialist license and National Board Certification.

With locations in St. Francois County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County, our clinics are committed to helping you hear your best at any stage of life— delivering personalized care with the latest, most advanced hearing solutions.

Introducing Starkey’s Omega AI – Designed to restore the normal sense of hearing closer than any technology of its kind!

• Waterproof,* sweatproof, and everyday-proof

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Where Dogs Aren’t Pets – They’re Family

BUILDING A SANCTUARY WHERE BOARDING, GROOMING, AND TRAINING MEET COMPASSIONATE, FAMILY-CENTERED CARE.

When Alicia Miley discusses Countryside Kennels, the word "clients" never surfaces. She speaks exclusively of family. It is a fitting description for a business that has evolved far beyond a place for dogs to stay while their owners travel. Tucked just outside the quiet community of Farmington, Countryside Kennels has become a retreat where dogs are boarded, groomed, trained, and—most importantly—deeply loved. Built on a foundation of trust and shared values, it serves those who view their pets as integral family members, not just property.

Established in April 2021 on Old Fredericktown Road, the kennel began with humble goals. By 2023, the business outgrew its initial space, moving to its current, expansive facility.

“ULTIMATELY, THE MISSION AT COUNTRYSIDE KENNELS IS NEVER JUST ABOUT SERVICES; IT IS ABOUT FOSTERING A SPACE WHERE ANIMALS ARE TREATED WITH GENUINE COMPASSION AND WHERE THEIR OWNERS FEEL TRULY SEEN.”

Presently, the operation accomodates around 26 dogs at a time, though strategic expansions are already underway to increase that capacity to 75. Yet, the true story of Countryside isn't just about growth metrics or square footage. It is about the three women behind the operation and how one small business blossomed into a premier pet-care hub through shared faith, deep friendship, and an unwavering commitment to both people and their pets.

Alicia’s path into the animal industry began amidst personal grief. After losing her mother, she left her established career in human services and found profound solace in animal care. A local kennel owner eventually offered her the business, and Alicia took a significant leap of faith, creating a facility specifically designed for comfort, safety, and individualized attention. Whether she is boarding energetic regulars or comforting nervous first-timers, Alicia ensures every guest enjoys indoor-outdoor access, spacious play yards, and consistent, personalized affection. Her journey was unpredictable, including a serendipitous meeting that secured their current facility, but her focus has remained constant: ensuring every dog feels safe, known, and cared for.

The property now houses two additional specialized services: Suzanne Baker’s "8:27 Grooming" and Kayla’s K-9’s, run by Kayla Kemp. Suzanne’s journey is equally unique. With an extensive background in therapeutic horsemanship and animal science, she joined Alicia’s team after discovering a passion for the work. Following a health challenge, Suzanne turned to her faith, specifically the verse Matthew 8:27, and felt a strong calling to start grooming. Today, her luxury, oneon-one grooming service prioritizes a health-first mindset. She avoids the rush of high-volume salons, uses coat-specific products, and focuses entirely on the dog's comfort,

COUNTRYSIDE KENNELS:

AT A GLANCE

Founded in 2021 by Alicia Miley, Countryside Kennels has transformed from a humble boarding facility into a holistic, three-pillar pet-care hub in Farmington. This unique partnership integrates three specialized services to support the entire life of your pet:

BOARDING:

Alicia Miley provides individualized care, currently accommodating 26 dogs with active expansion plans for 75.

8:27 GROOMING:

Suzanne Baker offers luxury, one-on-one, health-focused grooming.

KAYLA’S K-9’S:

Kayla provides professional positive-reinforcement training for dogs and owners.

Together, they prioritize a faith-based, family-centered approach, ensuring that every pet receives compassionate, personalized attention. They don’t just care for pets; they care for the families who love them.

providing a spa-like experience for anxious or senior pets who require patience.

Rounding out the vision, Kayla specializes in training that emphasizes positive reinforcement. With professional credentials, she teaches that training is as much about educating the owner as it is about correcting the dog. Her services range from group classes to private, in-home sessions. Kayla is particularly skilled at helping anxious dogs build confidence, ensuring they have the tools to thrive in social environments.

Together, these three women have created a rare ecosystem where boarding, grooming, and training support one another. A nervous dog finds comfort through a meet-andgreet, a boarded dog enjoys a fresh groom, and families struggling with behavioral issues find tailored, compassionate support. This integration is about caring for dogs through every life stage, from puppyhood to end-of-life care. They don’t shy away from the emotional weight of pet care; they embrace it. "This is family," they affirm. Every interaction— from the patience spent on an anxious dog to the prayers offered for owners—is driven by this philosophy. Ultimately, the mission at Countryside Kennels is never just about the services provided. It is about fostering a space where animals are treated with genuine compassion and where their owners feel truly seen. By aligning their strengths, Alicia, Suzanne, and Kayla have built more than a facility; they have built a community. Here, every dog is part of the family, and that commitment remains the guiding light for everything they do, every single day.

Wrapped in Love

The Moms Behind Bambear

There’s something special about clothing your children in pieces that become part of their sweetest memories. Lazy Saturday mornings, bedtime stories, family movie nights, and the countless little moments that make childhood unforgettable. For local moms Kaley and Eden, that’s exactly what inspired Bambear.

The idea began over two years ago with a simple conversation about buying bamboo pajamas for their own children. Instead of giving up the soft, high-quality sleepwear they loved, the two friends decided to create a brand that would bring premium bamboo clothing to families in their small Missouri community.

Today, Bambear has shipped to 36 states, but despite its growing reach, the company is still rooted in the same values that started it all: family, friendship and faith.

Like many parents, Kaley and Eden wear many hats. Kaley is a registered nurse and mother of two, while Eden balances motherhood, a career as an optician and college classes. After long workdays and busy evenings with their families, they spend late nights dreaming up new collections,

answering customer messages and preparing the next Bambear launch.

Every print is carefully selected, every detail thoughtfully considered and every order hand-packaged with care. Launch days often look less like a corporate warehouse and more like friends gathered together while their children play nearby.

What has surprised them most isn’t the success of the business. It’s the community that has grown around it.

The women who first discovered Bambear as customers have become close friends. Parents share photos of their little ones wearing favorite prints, offer ideas for future collections and celebrate each new release together. The founders affectionately refer to many of those children as their “internet nieces and nephews,” a testament to the relationships that have blossomed far beyond a simple purchase.

For Kaley and Eden, Bambear has never been just about buttery-soft bamboo clothing. It’s about celebrating childhood, creating lasting memories and giving families something that feels as comforting as the love that inspired it.

“
“Most of the women who started as customers have become our family.”

Dr.

and

- Medford

Precision Eye Care has been serving the Parkland area with quality eye care and cataract surgery for over 30 years.

We also provide glaucoma treatment, diabetic eye exams, macular degeneration and dry eye treatment. Drs. Anton Beffa and John Fitz are certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and are fellows of The American College of Surgeons. Our physicians strive to listen to you, carefully.

We provide a thorough, personalized examination with kindness and respect. Doctors Beffa, Fitz, England and their staff are committed to this mission, and we continually strive to improve all facets of our patient’s experience. We hope to provide compassion with a small town feel, maintaining our patient’s dignity, during every visit. We can address all of your optic needs, right here in Farmington.

Dr. Anton Beffa
Dr. John Fitz Dr. Logan England

PUP -SICLE

As we all try to stay cool during the scorching dog days of summer, our furry friends need a break from the heat too. Pamper your pup with a refreshing “pup-sicle.” These dog-friendly frozen treats are sure to make your canine companion’s tail wag!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt (or dog-safe yogurt alternative)

• 1/2 cup of unsweetened, plain applesauce

• 1/4 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Mix the yogurt, applesauce, and water or chicken broth in a bowl until well combined.

2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.

3. Freeze for several hours or until solid.

4. Serve the frozen treats to your dog to help them cool off!

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Beating the Dog Days of Summer with a Canine Treat

Build Wealth Through Real Estate

Real Estate remains one of the most powerful ways to build longterm wealth. Investing isn’t just for large corps or seasoned investors - it’s for anyone ready to build something bigger for their future. With the right strategy and local expertise, investment properties can generate income and long-term value. From analyzing potential returns to navigating the buying process, Freedom Realty MO is here to help you invest with confidence.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

AUGUST 14TH

Food Truck Friday Night

Downtown Park Hills | 6:00 PM

Close out the summer with an evening full of great food, live music, and community fun as we celebrate one last Food Truck Friday Night of the season. Live Music by Reel Noiz. Bring your lawn chairs, invite your friends, and come hungry. Let’s send off summer together!

AUGUST 21ST

Revive Farmington

210 N A Street | 4:00 PM

Revive Farmington returns! Come experience a life-changing weekend, August 21-22 from 4-9 in downtown Farmington featuring live bands, guest speakers, food trucks, kids zone, & more! Best of all - the concert is totally free. The Friday night headliner will be Arbour Season and our Saturday night headliner will be Claire Leslie! For more information, visit www.farmingtonfbc.org/revive

AUGUST 22ND

Farmington Empire Series

Farmington Empire Speedway | 6:00 PM

Adult Weekly Grandstand Price: $10. Ages 12-and-under: FREE. Veterans with Valid Military ID Admitted FREE to ALL Events. Adult Weekly Pit Pass Price: $35 Ages 4-to-12 Weekly Pit Pass Price: $15 with Paid Adult. Ages 3-and-under are FREE. Tickets are purchased at the gates only. Pit Gates Open at 4 P.M. Front Gates Open at 5 P.M. Hot Laps at 6:00 PM, Racing at 7:00 PM.

AUGUST 29TH

Downtown Bonne Terre 6th Annual Block Party

Division & School Streets | 10:00 AM

Spend the day in downtown Bonne Terre with food trucks, vendors, craft vendors, a beer garden, live music, a bounce house, Side x Side Show, local businesses, and hometown community fun. This annual event is a great way to bring the family, meet up with friends, support local businesses, and enjoy the heart of Bonne Terre.

AUGUST 29TH

Madison County Saddle Club Buckle Series Show

1331 Madison 203 Fredericktown, MO 63645 | 9:00 AM

We are excited to announce the 2026 Buckle Series with multiple divisions for riders of all ages and experience levels! Whether you enjoy pleasure classes, gymkhana, or halter, there’s something for everyone. Please Contact Michelle Renna 573-330-7490 or Isaac Kiepe 573366-0380 for questions.

AUGUST 30TH

Food Truck Fest and Fall Market

623 Canterberry Rd Farmington MO, 63640 | 10:00 AM

Join us for a fun community mash-up of great food and local shopping. While we’ve featured food trucks before, this time we are bringing you a much wider variety of different cuisines. We’ve hand-picked a great mix of trucks so there’s a unique flavor for everyone to try. Come hungry, shop local, and enjoy a perfect day!

A Journey to Foster

JAY CORBITT SET TO CYCLE ACROSS COUNTRY TO RAISE AWARENESS FOR FOSTER CHILDREN, WITH HIS ADOPTED SON BY HIS SIDE

“Challenges build strength. Comfort builds nothing.”

That belief has guided Jay Corbitt through life—and now it’s carrying him and his adopted son, Cameron “Cam” Corbitt, across the country on bicycles.

This summer, the pair will ride from Missouri to North Carolina through the Foster to Family Ride, raising awareness for foster care while proving that family is built through love, not blood.

Jay met Cam while serving as a house parent at Faith Foundation Children’s Home in Fredericktown. After welcoming him into their family in 2024, Jay realized his son had never been taught many everyday life skills. Rather than dwell on the past, he set out to build confidence through shared challenges, giving Cam a sense of purpose and both of them an opportunity to give back.

Originally planned as a Guinness World Record attempt on a Honda Ruckus scooter, the journey shifted to bicycles after unexpected setbacks. Instead of quitting, Jay embraced the change.

Throughout the two-month ride, father and son will document their adventure online, hoping others witness not only the physical miles but the emotional transformation.

For Jay, the ride isn’t about reaching North Carolina. It’s about giving Cam something that lasts a lifetime— the confidence to face any obstacle, knowing they conquered one together.

Foster to Family Ride benefits CarePortal

Every dollar donated through the Foster to Family Ride benefits CarePortal, a care-sharing technology that connects local churches and community members with children and families in crisis. By meeting practical needs before they become overwhelming, CarePortal strengthens families, supports foster and adoptive parents, and creates opportunities for neighbors to make a lasting difference—one family at a time. You can Venmo your donation to @Frozentimephoto to support amazing organization.

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Parkland, MO August 2026 by City Lifestyle - Issuu