




convoy.org/catalog
convoy.org/catalog
There’s something magical about certain moments in time that bring the highest vibration of love. For many, that feeling is wrapped up in the holiday season. For me, it brings back memories of family gathered in my grandmother’s tiny home, crowded with laughter, love, food, and warm hugs. There was no social media, no cell phones—just good tidings and togetherness. Grandma was a saint and my rock, her traditions woven deeply into my heart. As the oldest granddaughter, I spent countless hours by her side, and her ways became mine.
Now that I have granddaughters of my own, I’ve learned to relax into a blend of traditions—some from the past, and some new, with room for the next generation to create their own. Watching them carry forward the spirit of childhood memories fills my heart with joy. They may not be waking up at my house at 5 a.m., but those little pitter-patters are there, greeting the day in their own homes, spreading the magic forward. And that’s what it’s all about—the magic that happens when we do come together, even if it’s not always on the traditional day or in the traditional way.
This season let’s focus on opening our hearts and homes, just as my grandmother did, welcoming friends, family, and the spirit of giving. The years may have taken some of our loved ones, but their warmth and love are still alive within us, a gift we carry forward to each gathering.
In this issue, we celebrate the beauty of the season and ways we can bring cheer into our own community and create a ripple effect to communities everywhere. From Convoy of Hope’s curated gift guide to festive events around town, there’s something for everyone. We’ve highlighted opportunities to give back, because while holidays are joyful for many, they can be difficult for those who feel the absence of loved ones or who are struggling in other ways. Let’s be the helpers in our community—offering kindness, service, and a little extra warmth to those who need it most. State Bank of Southwest Missouri exemplifies what it means to show up with a kind word and belief in people. Read more in this issue - it isn’t just about their delicious cookies!
Whether it’s family traditions or new memories in the making, may you find moments that fill your heart with joy.
Wishing you blessings of a magical season.
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Donna King | donna.king@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Brian Walker | brian.walker@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Patti Zielinski, Steven Schowengerdt, Emily McKeever, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Leigh Love, Tiffany Enowski, Natalie Finazzo Fox, Mindy Wester
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
DONNA KING, PUBLISHER
Achieving Your Best (AYB) participated in the Bass Pro Marathon this past weekend (November 3rd) and won FIRST PLACE in the Co-ed relay division! 1: Anthony Hales, Tyler Ast, Kimi Reed, Marshall Reed and Jennifer Brodersen 2: Tori Keltner, Cassie Dimmick, Kim Benson 3: Wes & Larry Hughes 4: Josh & Cassie Dimmick 5: AYB Relay Team 1 6: Adrianne Hughes & Ryleigh Clark 7: AYB Relay Team 2
STATE BANK’S YEAR ROUND SPIRIT
I attribute my growth, both personally and professionally, to the support I’ve found here.
— Tiffany Nichols
At State Bank of Southwest Missouri, employees and customers are more than just names on an account.
One of the most heartwarming scenes in the 1946 Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life is when George Bailey, the small-town banker, offers care and compassion to his customers in Bedford Falls. George sees his customers not as numbers on a spreadsheet but as people with hopes, dreams, and sometimes struggles. In turn, the customers regarded the institution as a vital part of their community, one that understood their needs and rose to every occasion. As Bailey supported them, they supported his family’s business: Their local bank.
While it may seem like a throwback to a simpler time, the philosophy of personal care and commitment is alive and well at State Bank of Southwest Missouri on the aptly named Sunshine Street, where customers experience genuine warmth and understanding.
In today’s era of artificial intelligence and chatbots, where financial institutions are often distant, State Bank stands as a refreshing reminder of what banking can be. Here, clients aren’t just served— they’re welcomed, remembered, and valued. As Mr. Fowler, president and CEO, puts it, “When you call here, you talk to a person; you are not sent to voicemail. Courtney Conrad, vice president, adds –“We believe people want to bank with people.” This belief has cultivated a unique loyalty among clients, who often come through referrals of friends and family who describe the employees as trustworthy, supportive friends.
Founded in 1985 by 19 local investors, State Bank of Southwest Missouri was built on a foundation of personalized service, a tradition that continues under the leadership of
W. Thomas Fowler, Jr., one of those founders and now the president and CEO. From the beginning, Fowler envisioned a bank where every client interaction was grounded in sincerity and warmth. This ethos has become a hallmark of the bank’s culture, creating a welcoming environment where employees are genuinely invested in the well-being of their clients.
Throughout his life, Fowler has sought to make a positive impact on those around him, extending the blessings he has received to others in the community. “We know our clients names and understand their needs and aspirations,” Conrad says. “Our employees support clients and each other through life’s joys and challenges, whether it’s celebrating a wedding or offering comfort during difficult times.”
The bank’s employees go beyond the typical duties of a banker; they are often found attending clients’ family events, lending a hand in times of crisis, and celebrating life’s milestones together.
The personal touch is just as evident in the way Fowler treats his employees. Of the bank’s ten officers, four have been with the institution for more than 30 years, while another four have served over 15 years. This impressive tenure speaks to the supportive and close-knit work environment that Fowler has cultivated. Two employees recently retired after more than 30 years of service, a testament to the deep bonds formed within the bank’s team.
Fowler’s own journey began in a family business. As a young man, he worked alongside his father at a tire shop near downtown Springfield on Campbell Avenue. There, he learned the values of hard work, integrity, and servant leadership, values that continue to shape the bank’s culture today. Fowler fondly recalls his father’s guidance, emphasizing the importance of
Every day, all day. It’s truly the Christmas spirit. “ ”
— Tom Fowler III
helping others. “Acts of kindness at the bank are a norm. We hire good people, and it feels automatic for them to be helpers,” Conrad explains, quoting the famous Mister Rogers line, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” At State Bank, this philosophy isn’t just a saying; it’s a way of life.
This spirit of family extends to the next generation. Fowler’s son, Tom Fowler III, now a senior vice president, began his career at the bank in 1999 and shares his father’s dedication to community service and personal relationships. Known for being the first-person people turn to for advice, whether it’s about finances
or life in general, Tom is a steady presence, offering support and encouragement to clients, colleagues, and friends alike. He also dedicates much of his time to community involvement, having coached numerous youth sports teams in the Springfield area, a passion that has allowed him to give back to the community in meaningful ways.
For Tiffany Nichols, who joined the bank as a young teller and has since risen to the role of senior vice president, State Bank has been more than a workplace—it has been a family. Having lost her mother at a young age, Tiffany found mentors and role models among
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the bank’s leadership, particularly in Mr. Fowler and Donna Umlauf, the bank’s senior vice president and CFO, who has been with the bank for 36 years. “I attribute my growth, both personally and professionally, to the support I’ve found here,” Tiffany reflects. The bank’s supportive culture has shaped her not only as a banker but as a person.
Clients feel this culture as well. Tom Fenton has banked with State Bank for nearly two decades, expresses it simply: “I can sum it up in one sentence. They make me feel like I’m their most important depositor every time I walk through the door…and that’s been true since 1987 when Mr. Fowler and I shook hands for the first time.”
Another client speaks to the consistency and care he experiences. “I’ve been seeing the same faces for 16 years. They treat their employees well, and that extends to how they treat people. It’s not just customer service; it’s a culture of kindness,” he says. “They are servants to their community. I’m personally aware of how many people they have helped.”
According to Conrad, the feeling is mutual. “Our clients are more than clients to us; they’re like family. We’ve watched children grow, celebrated life milestones, and stood beside them in hard times. The support from the community means the world to us,
and it’s what drives us to keep building these relationships,” she explains. This two-way connection forms the heart of State Bank. This ongoing support fuels their commitment to stay locally focused and genuinely invested in the community they serve.
Every Christmas season, the bank embraces a heartwarming tradition. Rather than hiring a professional firm, the employees come together to decorate the bank, creating a festive atmosphere that reflects their close-knit spirit. “All the employees can bring their children to help decorate and we make it a family event. When my children were small, they always looked forward to helping decorate at Christmas.” says Rachelle Bremer, senior vice president.
On Christmas Eve, after serving the last customer, employees gather for a few words from Mr. Fowler, who expresses his gratitude for their hard work and wishes them a happy holiday. It’s a touching moment that highlights the family-like bond shared among the team.
“Every day, all day. It’s truly the Christmas spirit,” Tom Fowler III adds, reflecting the genuine warmth that defines State Bank of Southwest Missouri. Here, banking is about more than numbers; it’s about relationships, compassion, and community. State Bank is a place where people matter, not just during the holidays but every single day of the year.
— Courtney Conrad
Gabbie Clark operations supervisor
As an individual who loves Christmas, it's such a pleasure to work at a place like State Bank of Southwest Missouri during the Christmas Season. It's not just the elegant Christmas decorations throughout the bank, but also the generosity, kindness, and friendliness shared between staff, customers, and the community that really makes State Bank of Southwest Missouri a place full of Christmas spirit.
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also lead to financial stress if you’re not careful. Here are twelve things you can do to plan for the twelve days of Christmas, while enjoying the festivities!
Set a Holiday Budget and Review Savings Goals
Review High-Interest Debt and Meet with Your Banker to Explore Refinancing Options for More Holiday Savings
Shop Locally for Gifts
Set Alerts in your Banking App to Keep Track of Spending this Season
Give Back by Volunteering with a Local Non-Profit
Make a Festive Playlist
Set Up Automatic Payments through your Banking App to Allow More Time to Wrap Gifts
Spend Time with Loved Ones Ice Skating at Cassidy Station
Spread Christmas Cheer by planning a Christmas Light Tour Around the 417
Make a Seasonal Recipe to Share with a Neighbor
Grab a Cookie for Santa Next Time You Visit State Bank Rock around the Christmas Tree at Park Central Square during Springfield’s Christmas Parade Saturday, December 14th
Every item donated supports people in need through Convoy of Hope’s programs.
By donating through the Gift Catalog, you’ll provide more than a gift to people in need … you’ll provide hope. Every item and bundle featured represents the work Convoy is doing around the world to help vulnerable people. Browse all items at convoy.org/CL (417) 851-4466
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
After a disaster strikes, basic necessities become scarce. Your gift today can provide hope to a family. By providing them with the food and water they desperately need, you are letting them know they are not alone.
Deliver immediate relief to communities affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. When you link arms with Convoy of Hope, hurting people all over the southeastern U.S. receive the help and support they need.
Imagine losing everything overnight due to a disaster such as a flood, fire, or tornado. By providing essential items through this bundle, you can help restore hope to a family in critical need.(Includes: 2 baby care kits, 3 family hygiene kits, 1 disaster relief kit, and 1 solar lantern + phone charger)
Convoy works tirelessly to ensure children receive the support they need to thrive. Gift this bundle and provide medicine, improved access to clean water, and food for a child in need. (Includes: medication and vitamins, better access to clean water, and food for a year)
When you feed a child nutritious meals, you open the door to tremendous possibilities.
By improving access to clean and safe water, you can address short- and long-term needs at the same time. Your gift helps Convoy of Hope implement the best clean water solution for a school or community — including hand-washing stations, community wells, and more.
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,
• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)
• 8 ounces of brie cheese
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• Balsamic glaze
• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!
• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.
• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.
• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread
• ½ cup chopped cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis
• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.
• Add cranberries and pecans.
• Garnish with grated orange peel.
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.
THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch – with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
VARIATIONS TO SAVOR
Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.
MINTY FRESH WONDER
Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your
own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.
SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR
Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.
GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER
Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.
DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE
Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.
DECEMBER 2ND
Celtic Angels Christmas
Gillioz Center for Arts and Entertainment | 7:30 PM
Witness the power and precision of the world class Irish step dancers as they rejoice in the joys of the holiday season., The Celtic Knights led by Irish Step Choreography, Dan Drew accompanied by the thrilling live tunes of the Trinity Ensemble.
DECEMBER 6TH
A Christmas Carol at Landers Theater
THE LANDERS 311 East Walnut Street Springfield, Missouri | 2:00 PM
Celebrate the season with *A Christmas Carol*, a musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic. Follow Scrooge’s transformation, set to Alan Menken’s captivating score. Featuring memorable songs, vibrant choreography, and stunning visuals, this family-friendly production explores redemption, compassion, and the true spirit of Christmas through Scrooge’s encounters with the Ghosts. Multiple times, weekends through December 8th.
DECEMBER 7TH
Springfield Symphony Orchestra-In the Mood Sing along
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway Springfield, MO 65802 | 7:30 PM
Let the Springfield Symphony Orchestra put you in the holiday mood with all of your favorites at their traditional holiday concert, featuring the Mid-America Singers, in a night of both secular and sacred works, including selections from Handel’s Messiah. You’ll leave ready to celebrate the season after the annual sing-along.
DECEMBER 7TH
An Old Fashioned Christmas at the Mill
14 Mill Market- 203 E Mt Vernon St, Nixa, MO 65714 | 12:00 PM
Bring your family and friends to experience the warmth of the season with festive activities for everyone. Wear your favorite Christmas Sweater for a chance to take home a 14 Mill Market grab bag. Enjoy live carolers and craft stations where you can make popcorn garland, personalized stockings and a hot chocolate ornament station. And of course meet Santa!
DECEMBER 8TH
70th Annual Nixa Christmas Parade Seven Decades of Nixa Christmas
701 N Taylor Way Nixa, MO 65714 | 2:00 PM
This year’s theme is Past to Present: Seven Decades of a Nixa Christmas. Santa will be on the Gateway Real Estate float. Starting at X Center, to North St., North to Aven. West to Fort. Fort to Wasson. Wasson to McCroskey. McCroskey to Lorene. Lorene to Main. Main to Short. Short to Frank. Frank to Kyle. Kyle to Jr High.
DECEMBER 8TH
Jim Brickman Comfort and Joy
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway Springfield, MO 65802 | 4:00 PM
Jim Brickman’s distinctive piano style has revolutionized instrumental music, making him a leading figure in modern American music. The best-selling solo pianist of our time, he has 22 Number One albums, 34 Top 20 singles, multiple Grammy nominations, a Dove Award, two SESAC Songwriter of the Year Awards, and 2 billion streams on Pandora.
DECEMBER 11TH
Christmas with Chris Tomlin-Adore Christmas Songs of Worship
Evangel University-1111 N. Glenstone Ave. Springfield, MO 65802 | 7:00 PM
Attend Christmas with Chris Tomlin at Evangel University Chapel. It’s going to be a fun and relaxed event with great music and good company. A perfect way to spend your evening with friends, family and worship.
DECEMBER 13TH
Terry Bradshaw at Clay Cooper Theatre
Clay Cooper Theatre-3216 W 76 Country Blvd. Branson, MO 65616 | 7:30 PM
Do not miss out on a great chance to see Terry Bradshaw and all of his talent! You will enjoy some funny comedy, hear some of his hot gospel songs, and even hear some exclusive stories from his life. You don’t want to miss out on the hilarious anecdotes and famous self-deprecating humor from this jack of all trades.
DECEMBER 14TH
Crosslines Christmas Store Donation Fitness Class
Achieving Your Best, 1311 E Republic Road Suite A, Springfield, MO | 8:30 AM
Are you ready to sweat for a good cause? Join AYB for a FREE Christmas-themed fitness class on December 14th at 8:30 am. In exchange for entry, bring a donation for the Crosslines Christmas Store. Follow us on social media for donation suggestions! To sign up, call 417-720-3670 or visit www.achievingyourbest.net
DECEMBER 15TH
Steven Curtis Chapman
Aetos Center for the Performing Arts-514 S Nicholas Rd, Nixa, MO | 7:00 PM
Steven Curtis Chapman is synonymous with contemporary Christian music. For 35 years, he has defined contemporary Christian music with 50 No. 1 singles and a record 59 GMA Dove Awards. He’s sold over 16 million albums and won multiple GRAMMYs. Come enjoy an evening of great music.
DECEMBER 17TH
Candlelight: Holiday Pop Classics and
Drury University’s Stone Chapel-900 N. Benton, Springfield, MO | 6:30 PM
Join our friends at fever for a Christmas celebration of your favorite pop hits from across the years, presented by candlelight in the surrounds of a stunning venue. Featuring a set list of music inspired by the holidays, including, tunes from Mariah, Ariana, Taylor, Bieber and more, this holiday playlist is one all pop fans will treasure! 6:30 PM and 8:45 PM
DECEMBER 21ST
Girls Gone Bible Live Tour
Gillioz-325 Park Central E. Springfield, MO | 7:00 PM
Girls Gone Bible offers authentic conversations and unfiltered insights on faith, relationships, and the Christian journey. Hosts Angela Halili and Arielle Reitsma share candid thoughts, embracing vulnerability and celebrating honest, open discussions. It’s a space for women to explore life’s challenges with honesty, humor, and a deep sense of community.