Thank you for consistently providing exceptional services that enrich our community and enhance the lives of those around us. Your commitment not only elevates our magazine but also strengthens the fabric of Springfield.
We look forward to continuing this together, making Springfield an even better place to live, work, and play. Here’s to more successful collaborations in the future!
Thank you for being such an important part of our story!
417 Medϵstetic
Achieving Your Best-AYB
American Heritage Brands
Arlie's Farm
Bistro 160
Buckle Up Western Store
F8 Training & Wellness Studio
Fishel Pools
Gabel Cabins
Healing Hands Skin Therapy
John's Suit Shop
Kern Insurance Services
Keystone Creative
Lindsay Lattner Interiors
Love Leigh Photography
Mountain Pine Studios
Render Flooring
Rob & Stacey Real Estate - eXp Realty
Seminole Decor Center
Serotonin Anti-Aging
State Bank of Southwest Missouri
Squeegee Squad
Tenowksi Branding Photography & Video
Breast Imaging of the Ozarks, The Breast Center
Thompson Sales Company
Reflecting on this season of gratitude, it’s the connections within our community that shine brightest. From small, everyday acts of kindness to larger milestones that shape our experience, we are constantly reminded of the power of coming together. This issue is dedicated to celebrating those who turn passion into purpose, like April Wilkie of Healing Hands Skin Therapy, whose journey of growth and self-care mirrors the values we hold dear.
Together, let’s embody the balance between giving back, nurturing ourselves, and fostering the relationships that make our community thrive. Growing up, I often heard the phrase, “go see the Thompson boys” whenever people talked about buying a car. It was more than just a recommendation—it was a mark of trust. Thompson Sales, now led by its fourth generation, has become a living testament to this kind of enduring trust, family, and commitment that continues to shape our community today.
This season also brings a focus on the shift from a lack mindset to one of abundance. How do we make that transition automatic, so it becomes second nature? Journaling is one tool that can help. We’ve included journal prompts to encourage reflection on the blessings in our lives. Whether you’re an avid journaler or not, the discipline of appreciating what we have trains our minds to focus on the many small blessings that surround us. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s going wrong, but the truth is we all have much to be grateful for—and someone else always has it worse. By sharing stories of challenges and wins, we realize we’re more alike than different, and there’s inspiration in every heartache. I’m also thankful for the purpose that’s been planted in me—and in you. Let’s lean into our dreams, knowing that true confidence isn’t about feeling invincible. It’s about relentlessly pursuing purpose, trusting the process, and building faith step by step. We all face challenges, but the belief in your dream, and in the Maker of your dreams, will carry you through.
As we quiet the inner critic, we strengthen our inner cheerleader. Here’s to a tablescape of abundance, purpose, and the power of community. Springfield is for family, and there’s no better time to celebrate that.
As part of giving back, City Lifestyle is offering financial support to those in need through our #GivingCampaign. Know someone who could use a helping hand? Let’s make a difference in someone’s Christmas.
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Donna King | donna.king@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Brian Walker | brian.walker@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Patti Zielinski, Hunter Jazz, Delia Jo Ramsey, Bailey Morris, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mountain Pine Studios, Tiffany Enowski, Janie Jones, Randy Bacon Photography
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 @SPRINGFIELDCITYLIFESTYLE
1 – 7: Thompson Sales hosted the Greater Ozarks Chapter of the Pontiac Oakland GMC Club International. Cars young and old competed for best in show. The Pontiac Trans-Am was awarded the most likely to get pulled over after the show.
SPRINGFIELD CITY LIFESTYLE GIVING CAMPAIGN
Each Christmas season, City Lifestyle gifts a significant amount to those who could use a little extra support. But we need your help to find them. Do you know someone facing tough times? Your nomination could make all the difference. Nominations open November 27th thru December 10th
As the season of gratitude approaches, we want to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you for trusting us, for being part of our community, and for allowing us to serve you throughout the years. At State Bank, we’re grateful for every connection we’ve made and every story we’ve been a part of.
This Thanksgiving, we celebrate not just the holiday, but the relationships that make our work meaningful. We wish you and your loved ones a season filled with joy, warmth, and togetherness.
Best wishes, The State Bank Team
Witnessing our clients’ milestones, supporting them along the way, and celebrating their successes is among the most rewarding aspects of our work. The Geron family, in particular, has inspired us with their c ommitment to encouraging their children to explore the world and learn organically, fostering their growth in remarkable w ays.
The Geron family shared, "We're incredibly grateful to homeschool our children. The opportunity to shape t heir education and encourage their self-driven learning has been invaluable. State Bank has played a supportive role in this journey, always eager to hear about our children’s progress."
We look forward to updates from the Geron Family an d we can't wait to see more of the great things they wil l accomplish.
COMMITMENT TO FAMILY, COMMUNITY, AND LEADERSHIP IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
ARTICLE BY HUNTER JAZZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOUNTAIN PINE STUDIOS
“World-class culture is top priority — everything after becomes easier.” – Miles Thompson
Ever since he was old enough to walk, Miles Thompson of Thompson Sales has been immersed in the family business. From playing around the old dealership on 727 Saint Louis Street to working at their current location on Independence, the connection has been lifelong. “My first job started when I was around 15,” he recalls. “I was cleaning new cars for customers and salespeople. I felt a lot of pride polishing Pontiacs and Cadillacs.”
As a family business passed through five generations, the roles of family members have shifted over time. Lynn Thompson, the third-generation president and dealer, played a pivotal role in shaping the dealership’s direction. Now, as the fourth-generation president, Miles Thompson continues to carry that torch, maintaining the values that have guided the business for over a century. “Whether you’re cleaning vehicles or serving as the president, everyone has a major role in
our success,” he says. “We strive to make our team members and customers feel like part of the Thompson family.”
The dealership has flourished for over a century, an achievement built on creating an environment where every employee, regardless of their role, contributes to the legacy. “It’s not about hierarchy; it’s about commitment,” he continues. “Every single person here plays a part in providing an excellent customer experience.”
At Thompson Sales, teamwork is vital. The dealership employs around 130 people, many of whom have been with the company for decades. “We’re a family at work,” he explains. “Sometimes we spend more time together than with our families at home, and that brings challenges.” Recognizing the balance between work and home life is essential. “I make it a priority to acknowledge that my employees have families to care for. Family comes first.”
“Whether cleaning vehicles or serving as president, everyone has a major role in providing success.”
The importance of communication is key, especially when navigating disagreements within a family-run business. “We’ve had as many as 11-12 family members working here at one time,” he says. “Of course, disagreements happen, but we work out solutions that benefit our customers and the dealership.”
One of the foundational reasons for the dealership’s success is its unwavering core values: respect, loyalty, integrity, trust, and sustainability. “We value every contribution from every family member and employee,” he says. “Loyalty to the business, the family, and our customers is non-negotiable. This commitment to integrity and leadership extends beyond the dealership itself.
This year, he serves as the Chairman of the Missouri Automobile Dealers Association (MADA), a role that allows him to further advocate for the values that have sustained his business. His leadership reflects a deep responsibility not only to his family and employees but also to the broader automotive community. “Integrity in both sales and service has built trust over generations. “That trust has kept us in business for more than a century,” he explains. “Our goal is longterm sustainability. We’re building something that will last for future generations.”
Gratitude also plays a significant role in Thompson’s philosophy. “I’m incredibly grateful to both our family and our employees,” he says. “It’s our employees who really set us apart from other dealerships.” Maintaining world-class culture is the top priority- everything after that becomes easier.”
The dealership’s reputation has been built through its commitment to honesty and service. “Our focus is on values and our people,” he adds. “Our employees are the lifeblood of this dealership.”
Since 1919, the local community has been integral to the dealership’s growth. “Our customers are generational,” he explains. “We have three generations here at Thompson, and many of our customers span multiple generations as well.”
While Thompson Sales has deep roots in tradition, the dealership has always been forward-thinking, embracing changes in the automotive industry to better serve their customers. “We’ve seen incredible shifts in vehicle technology over the years, from the introduction of electric vehicles to advanced safety features,” he explains. “Staying ahead of these trends is crucial for us.”
As Chairman of MADA, he sees his role as not only preserving the values that have sustained the dealership for generations but also leading innovation in the industry. “It’s about adapting while staying true to who we are. Our customers expect the best, and that means offering them the latest advancements without compromising on trust and service.”
That connection with the community is nurtured through trust and reciprocity. “People buy vehicles from businesses they trust, and our community trusts us,” he says. The dealership has made a point of giving back, contributing to local charities and schools throughout the Ozarks. “We always make it a priority to say thank you to the community that’s supported us for all these years.”
“Family-owned businesses that last require the family members to be the hardest working and most dedicated to their profession,” he notes. “Our job is to maintain that standard and ensure our values continue through the next generation.”
If he could speak with his great-grandfather, the founder of the dealership, he knows exactly what he’d say. “I’d thank him. Thanks for taking a risk and starting a business that would survive 5 generations and over 105 years!”
When asked about advice for the next generation of family businesses, Thompson says, “Remember what your goals are and strive every day to exceed them. There will be challenges, but staying true to your values and working hard will see you through.”
Founded: 1919
Generations Involved: 5 Employees: 130+
CORE VALUES:
• Respect
• Loyalty
• Integrity
• Trust
• Sustainability
Thompson Sales has been growing for more than a century alongside the community it serves. With over 130 dedicated employees, the dealership’s success is built on values passed down through the years.
“Our employees and the trust we have in them every day is what sets us apart,” says Thompson. Generational customers mirror the family’s ongoing commitment, and monthly donations to local charities and schools reflect their gratitude.
Looking ahead, the focus remains on preserving tradition while embracing innovation. “If I could talk to my great-grandfather today, I’d thank him for the risk he took that built a legacy lasting over 105 years.”
Approaching 30 years in business April Wilkie is grateful for the help she has received over the years and the power of trusting her instincts
ARTICLE
In 2016, April Wilkie came to a crossroads. She loved Healing Hands, Massage Therapy and Skin Care, the business she founded in Springfield in 1996, but she was becoming overwhelmed. She felt her home-work life uncomfortably shifting.
“I was stressed all the time. My family was tired of me coming home cranky. I am a woman of faith, and I said, ‘OK, God, something’s got to change. I love what I do, but I do not want to be so stressed all the time,’” she says. “Then, I heard a voice in my head that told me to turn on ‘The Today Show.,’ which I thought was weird as it’s not a show I watch. I tuned in and saw the CEO of Panera
Bread being interviewed. He was asked what he attributed his business success to. His response: “You figure out what your passion is and quit trying to do all of the other things.”
The comment was a revelation for Wilkie, who at the time employed a full staff managing a variety of services, from skincare to waxing and massage therapy. It was too much. “I realized that skin care is my passion,” she says. “My stress was coming from trying to be a one-stop-shop and having such a large staff.”
Then came another divine intervention: One by one, her staff quit over the coming weeks. “It
was all for good reasons — life circumstances, a move — and I realized, ‘I asked for help, and I got it. I need to trust the process.’”
She immediately set about renaming and rebranding her business to reflect her passion: Healing Hands Skin Therapy.
Her love of skin care began when Wilkie was a teen in Norwood, “devouring” magazines on the topic and assisting an experienced stylist who owned her business. “I was enthralled with studying her work and learning so much about various techniques and how to interact with clients,” she says. “I loved watching the clients’ faces light up when they would look in the mirror after a service.”
Then, Wilkie entered and won a national makeup competition; one of the prizes was
a scholarship to the Westmore Academy in Los Angeles to study makeup artistry. After finishing the course of study, she returned to Missouri and began working for a spa owner. “When the spa decided to focus on their educational facility, I decided to start my own business and keep the clientele I had worked so hard to build,” she says.
Focusing her services on skin care in 2016 proved to be the right decision, but as her clientele grew, Wilkie found herself starting to feel overwhelmed again. It came to a head two years ago as she struggled to balance her growing business while managing a household of two children — daughter, Parker, now 22, and son, Fisher, now 13 — along with her husband, Matt, who often traveled for his job as director of field teams at Convoy of Hope. “It was mostly just me at work, and I realized I needed help,” she says.
As in 2016, when Wilkie asked for help, she received it. The following day, a young woman she knew named Meg Fess texted her to say she was considering a career in aesthetics and wondered if Wilkie needed help. Wilkie jumped at the opportunity and took her on as an apprentice. “Meg began seeing her own clients in January 2024 and will be marking her second year working here in January 2025,” Wilkie says.
As she comes close to celebrating 30 years in business, Wilkie counts her abundant blessings. “Years ago, my mother decided to pursue her doctor of naturopathy degree, and I’m thankful to have her on staff to help our clients create health and balance on the inside,” she says. “I feel honored to own my own business and provide for my family as well as be an example for my children in that I have pursued a fulfilling career. I am also grateful to serve the community of Springfield, where the people are so friendly, warm, kind and hospitable.”
And for Wilkie, being thankful includes giving back. “A favorite annual event is International Women’s Day, sponsored by Convoy of Hope,” she says. “Knowing that my business can partner with causes like that is one of my favorite things. I love that we can invest in an organization that is empowering and equipping women all over the world to start their own businesses so they can provide for their families with dignity.”
Learn more at healinghandsskintherapy.com and follow Wilkie’s advice on healthy living on Instagram: @eathealthy.simply
ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY
The art of gratitude can be healing well beyond the month of November, but this is a great time of year to get in the true mindset of gratefulness. To aid in your endeavors, check out these 30 daily gratitude journal prompts and stick to them until it feels natural.
1. Five things that make you happy instantly:
2. Did you get any pleasant surprises today?
3. Did you do any acts of kindness today?
4. What's something big or small you can do for those less fortunate than yourself?
5. Five personality traits you're grateful for:
6. Favorite song and how does it make you feel?
7. One small step you can take toward overcoming a challenge you currently face:
8. List something good that caught your attention today.
9. What nice thing did another person do for you this week?
10. What's something you did for another person this week?
11. Three things you own that make your life easier:
12. How can you turn something that makes you angry into something more pleasant?
13. Think of five people who irritate you or you have trouble getting along with. Name three positive qualities about them.
14. What are you most thankful for in your life?
15. Name three of your significant accomplishments.
16. Most stunning place you’ve ever visited:
17. Think about the personalities and unique qualities of someone you admire. Which qualities of them do you want to see in yourself, too?
18. What's your favorite holiday and why?
19. What friends are you most grateful for having in your life?
20. What basic daily necessities are you thankful for today?
21. What are you grateful for in your career?
22. Focus on your five senses and write down how you can make them more active.
23. Three elements of nature you're most grateful for:
24. Three things you love about your town:
25. List three struggles you experienced and overcame in your life. What did you do to overcome them, and who helped you through them?
26. What meals do you enjoy most?
27. Something you saw this week that melted your heart:
28. A time when someone went out of their way to support you:
29. A happy memory from childhood:
30. Make a list of five places you'd like to visit and consider visiting at least one very soon.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
BUILD A CAMPFIRE READY S'MORES DESSERT BOARD WITH THIS HOW-TO GUIDE
ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS
It’s campfire season! You know what that means? S’MORES! These sweet treats are staples during the fall and winter! I have many childhood memories of sitting by the campfire with my family telling stories, gazing at the stars, and roasting marshmallows.
This year, take your s’mores to a whole new level with this S’mores Dessert Board! They are so easy and fun to make! Similar to a Charcuterie Board, a S’mores Dessert Board is beautifully decorated and full of everything you need to make the perfect s’mores! Some of my favorite things to include in a s’mores are either peanut butter or a mint chocolate candy!
WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
Board: A beautiful wood board or metal tray will look great!
Marshmallows: Choose between regular, jumbo, or flavored marshmallows.
Chocolate: There are so many options for chocolate when it comes to s’mores! There’s milk chocolate, peanut butter chocolates, white chocolate, caramel chocolates, and much more!
Graham Crackers: Use graham crackers or a variety of cookies for your s’mores.
Fresh Fruit: Include fresh fruits as toppings for your s’mores.
Skewers: Don’t forget to bring skewers to roast your marshmallows on!
NOVEMBER 2ND
Wingapalooza
Springfield Exposition Center 635 E. St. Louis St. Springfield, MO 65806 | 11:00 AM
Wingapalooza is the Midwest’s premier wing competition, celebrating its 24th anniversary as America’s oldest wing contest. Restaurants and teams compete for “Best Wings in Springfield.” Springfield Sertoma has raised nearly $975,000 for local youth organizations. There will also be concessions, raffles, silent auctions, premium drinks and 5 live bands including Psychobilly Cadillac and Dirty Saints. Tickets are $20-$50: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wingapalooza-24-tickets-838416806237
NOVEMBER 8TH
An Evening with Barry Corbin
The Mansion Theater-189 Expressway Ln. Branson, MO 65616 | 7:00 PM
Barry Corbin: A Timeless Talent
With a career spanning over six decades, Barry Corbin is a natural entertainer who has captivated audiences for years. From his first appearance in Urban Cowboy to his recent role in Yellowstone, Barry will share stories and photos from his most cherished moment on and off set. Tickets available at www.themansiontheatre.com/concerts
NOVEMBER 16TH
Lullaby of
Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway Springfield, MO 65802 | 7:30 PM
Join the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Missouri State University’s Theatre and Dance department for a concert version of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Carousel. Presented by one of Broadway’s most beautiful scores accompanied by a full symphony, featuring new faculty member Josh Young, known for his roles in Jesus Christ Superstar and Amazing Grace. Tix available at https:// www.springfieldmosymphony.org/concert/lullaby-of-broadway/
NOVEMBER 22ND
The Diamond Room-2340 W Grand St. Springfield, MO | 10:00 AM
Guests will tour 5 beautiful homes decorated for the holidays in an open house format from 10 AM to 6 PM. The Holiday Tea and Market will be held at The Diamond Room. The first 1,000 guests to purchase a ticket will receive a commemorative Japanese tea bowl. Visit https://rmhcozarks.org/events/cup-o-cheer/ to learn more and purchase tickets.
NOVEMBER 22ND
Jingle
Ozark Mountain Sports Complex-4400 N 19th St, Ozark, MO 65721 | 4:30 PM
Experience the joy of the holiday season with ice skating, snow tubing, and a festive light path. Enjoy live music at Bah Humbug’s SingA-Long Piano Bar, sip drinks at the Tipsy Tree Lodge, and shop for unique gifts from local artisans. Don’t miss a special visit from Santa Claus to complete your celebration! Select dates and times from 11/22-12/30. https://www.jingleholiday.com/springfield
NOVEMBER 24TH
Gillioz Center for Arts & Entertainment-325 Park Central E. Springfield, MO 65806 | 4:00 PM
Give the gift of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! to your family this holiday season. Experience America’s favorite Christmas tradition featuring an international cast, enchanting puppets, lavish costumes, and breathtaking acrobatics. Share Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and create lasting memories with friends and family of all ages. Don’t miss out—get your tickets now! $31 to $180 before fees at https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/76327946/nutcrackermagical-christmas-ballet-springfield-gillioz-theatre?partner_id=100
