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Letter from the Editor
December is here, and it is time again for our annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign. We started our own grassroots giveaway 4 years ago when we were looking for a way to give back to the communities that our magazines distribute to in a meaningful way. We wanted to do something unique that made an individual impact on families, and above all we wanted to find the hidden needs in the community of people who were struggling but that fall between the cracks of getting help. Most of us know of someone who has been hit with hard times, and oftentimes people suffer in silence without those around them knowing they are on the verge of losing their house, or they are struggling to pay bills, or they have been diagnosed with a disease and it has changed their financial status. We decided that the best way to find those needs was to ask you, our readers, to tell us about those hidden needs that you may know of.
This year we are giving away over $550,000 in total, and we hope to help hundreds of families with those funds. Nominations are completely confidential, and the identities of the recipients of our Giving Campaign will never be publicized as we promise complete privacy. There are no strings attached, and each recipient chosen will be given funds according to the severity of the need. We have helped so many in the Kansas City area and beyond because of your nominations, and we are excited to do it again this year. It is the number one thing that I am most proud that our company does each December, especially because I know the heart and intention behind it, and we all pour our heart and soul into working on this campaign each year as we comb through the hundreds of nominations that pour in. We know the needs are great and many are suffering, and while we aren’t able to help every need that comes in, we try and help as many as we can. There are no strings attached, and we will simply mail each recipient a check letting them know someone thought of them this season. We all know people who have been hit with hard times, so I encourage you to think about those who you know who may benefit from something like this. There are details on how to nominate inside this issue in the article dedicated to the Giving Campaign, or visit our foundation’s landing page at kingdombuildingfoundation.org/
I encourage you to reach out to those who may be alone this holiday season or who have been hit with a major life change that can make the holiday season difficult. We can all make a difference in our own circles if we are there for one another and show the love that this season embodies.
Love,
ANGELA BROOCKERD, EDITOR @JOHNSONCOUNTYCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Cristine Lindholm | cristine.lindholm@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Adam Gross | adam.gross@citylifestyle.com
Reagan Simpson | Reagan.Simpson@Citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Allison Swan, Judy Goppert, LeAnn Parker
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Bonnie Mitchell
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
Learn
us for a Christmas Train ride onboard the festively decorated Santa Rocket as we journey from Baldwin City to the brightly lit North Pole and back every weekend in December beginning November 30 at noon!
- We will journey from Baldwin City to the North Pole where Santa will board the train and ride back to Baldwin City with us meeting and greeting everyone.
- Every rider will enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a snack.
- Little ones can mail their Letters to Santa in our own post office car.
- Train ride lasts approximately one hour.
- Photo opportunities with Santa!!
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Making Spirits
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
FESTIVE POMANDERS
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
• Fresh oranges
• Toothpick or cocktail pick
• Whole cloves
• Citrus zester or lino cutting tool
• Twine or ribbon (optional)
Festive orange pomanders made with just fresh oranges and whole cloves not only look beautiful but have a holiday smell you can’t resist. Make your own with three simple steps.
HOW TO ASSEMBLE
1. With a citrus zester cut decorative lines and patterns into the orange peel. Tip: Save orange ribbons as garnishes for cocktails, holiday charcuterie trays or stovetop potpourri.
2. Use a toothpick to make a hole into the peel. This will help insert the cloves.
3. Insert a clove into each premade hole. Continue making holes and inserting cloves until the design is complete.
Depending on the depth of your decorative lines, pomanders will last for days to months at room temperature. If you want to ensure pomanders stay fresh then store them in the refrigerator until ready to display.
HOW TO USE POMANDERS
• Hang the smaller pomanders as ornaments on your tree or in a window.
• Arrange pomanders as a table centerpiece with whole nuts or pine cones.
Need another idea on how to use citrus around the holidays? Visit: silvertoothhome.com/blog/dried-citrus
LeAnn can’t wait to see the pomanders you create. Tag her on IG @silvertoothhome and #silvertoothhome so she can share.
Kansas City THE BALLET
Bringing live theater shows this winter and thoughout the year
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The Kansas City Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday tradition, captivating audiences with its enchanting story, stunning choreography and vibrant costumes and sets. From December 6th through the 24th, the Muriel Kauffman Theatre at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts will once again host this magical production.
Kansas City Ballet Artistic Director Devon Carney says, “Our vibrant production of The Nutcracker is a tradition deeply established in the Kansas City holiday season. It means the world to me to see the joy and sparkle in the eyes of our audiences of all ages, as they are transported to a whimsical winter wonderland and a beautiful land of the sweets in this classic tale. It just wouldn’t be the holidays in Kansas City without our audiences enjoying our wonderful production at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre!"
While the show unfolds effortlessly on stage, the work behind the scenes is an intricate collaboration among designers, artists and choreographers. Elaborate costumes, lavish sets and enchanting choreography all combine to create this beautiful atmosphere for audiences of all ages.
The breathtaking set design takes audiences from a cozy Victorian holiday party to the fantastical world of dancing snowflakes and sugar plum fairies. Scenic Designer Alain Vaës has crafted sets for ballet companies around the world, bringing his signature style to the production. His design work includes a Christmas tree that grows 30 feet tall on stage and a unicorn-drawn hot air balloon that whisks characters into the air.
Costumes are designed by Holly Hynes and play an equally vital role in bringing the play to life. Known globally for her work with the New York City Ballet and other prestigious ballet companies, she ensures every costume, from Clara’s festive party dress to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s glittering gown, adds a layer of enchantment to the performance. Her designs allow dancers to move with grace and precision while dazzling the audience with their detail and holiday sparkle.
Lighting designer, Trad A Burns, adds another layer of visual wonder to the production. Burns, who has designed lighting for over 400 ballet productions worldwide, uses light to transform each scene, from the soft glow of a winter night to the shimmering brilliance of the Land of the Sweets. His work perfectly complements the choreography, enhancing the magic on stage. Accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the Kansas City Symphony, these elements combine to create an unforgettable theatrical experience.
In addition to The Nutcracker performances, the Kansas City Ballet will host the Sugar Plum Fairy Children’s Ball on December 7th at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. This family-friendly event led by the Sugar Plum Fairy herself promises an exciting holiday experience for children and parents alike. Children will be treated to face painting, a complimentary photo with the Sugar Plum Fairy and holiday-themed activities. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy shopping at the Nutcracker Marketplace and bidding in the silent auction. The three-course luncheon
is followed by a special performance from Kansas City Ballet School students and a reading of the story. After the ball, families will head to the Kauffman Center for a matinee performance of The Nutcracker, completing a day filled with holiday cheer.
Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a longtime fan, the magic is sure to ignite the holiday spirit and inspire joy for all who attend. The Muriel Kauffman Theatre at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1601 Broadway Blvd in Kansas City. For more information, visit kcballet.org.
Holiday Entertaining made easy
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN
“
No matter the size, we bring the same level of energy and attention to detail to ensure a memorable experience for everyone.
Looking to take your holiday party to the next level? SA Entertainment, Kansas City’s leading provider of event contractors, offers an impressive array of top-tier talent to ensure your celebration is a hit. Whether your event needs fashion sketch artists, a live band, face painters, DJ’s or balloon artists, they have everything you need to make your event one you’ll never forget.
Since 2003, this family-driven entertainment company has been bringing joy and excitement to Kansas City events. Owner MJ Matthews has built a strong network of clients, working with top events like the MLB All-Star Games, the NFL Draft, and the Kansas City Ballet. Known for her personal touch, she’s vetted each performer herself. Now living with a Parkinson’s diagnosis and making the best of it (she says laughter is the best medicine!), MJ has stepped back from on-site artistry to focus on supporting the team and the local entertainment community.
"Starting as a small venture with my sister, we’re thrilled to remain family-run—and now even more so with my daughter, Cody, as a partner," says MJ. "Her fresh energy and dedication have been invaluable.
“We're incredibly proud of the talented team we've built,” says MJ. “Each member brings their own expertise and energy, helping us elevate every event. For this holiday season, we’re focusing on creating experiences that go beyond expectations—whether it’s adding a personal touch with caricature artists, bringing joy with a wonderful Santa Claus, enchanting kids with princesses, or the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who, we aim to make every party magical.”
MJ recommends blending entertainment elements to create a more immersive experience.
“One of our top recommendations is blending entertainment elements, like pairing a DJ with a live band, for a dynamic music experience, or combining a photo booth with custom balloon decor to create unique memories for guests. Adding interactive performers like balloon artists, face painters, or glitter tattoo stations keeps everyone engaged, while our holiday-specific options, like Santa visits, add that perfect festive touch. Our approach is all about customization and ensuring every event feels unique and unforgettable!”
What makes SA Entertainment unique is their commitment to tailoring each event to the client's vision.
“We LISTEN to our clients to understand their vision and guest needs, then suggest the right mix of services to match. Whether it's a magician and balloon artist for a lively party or live music and photo booths for an elegant touch, we tailor everything to fit, and try to take as much stress as possible off our clients in the process. We cater to all event sizes, from small intimate birthday celebrations to large-scale events like the NFL Draft. No matter the size, we bring the same level of energy and attention to detail to ensure a memorable experience for everyone.”
Their performers stand out with their talent and investment in continued education.
“We invest in our team, encouraging education and practice to help them refine their crafts because we want our talent to stand out. We work with the best in the business, and both our clients and our team are incredibly loyal. About 60% of our clients are repeat customers, many returning for over 15 years, and many of our performers have been with us just as long.
We’re truly grateful to be in this industry, working with such talented individuals and wonderful clients who trust us to bring their events to life year after year.
“We want to express our immense gratitude for the talented individuals we work with and the amazing community that continues to trust us with their events. It’s an honor to be part of so many special moments. We’re also thankful for our families who put up with
the chaos of owning a business, and for a great cup of coffee—because let’s be honest, caffeine is what keeps us going this time of year! As we approach the holiday season, we’re excited to help make even more celebrations unforgettable. While we’re still open for bookings, some dates are starting to fill up, so we encourage anyone planning a holiday event to reach out soon!”
For more information, visit saentertainmentkc.com.
Bizz and Weezy Confections
ARTICLE BY JUDY GOPPERT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNIE MITCHELL
“We like to make truffles, fudge and cookies and give them out as Christmas presents to family and friends and it took off from there.”
Jonathan and Amy Pitcher are the makers and mixers of these dreamy, unique, oneof-a-kind masterpieces. Their confectionary story began over 15 years ago when they both tired of their current jobs.
“We like to make truffles, fudge and cookies and give them out as Christmas presents to family and friends. That year, a friend approached us and asked for a custom order and offered to pay for it!” he noted. “We looked at each other and decided to start a professional kitchen in a 10 x 10-foot room in our basement. We began making chocolates and caramels to sell.”
Word of mouth and door-to-door selling propelled them to move into a bigger kitchen. With over 8,000 followers on social media, they moved into their location at 18th and Baltimore. A chef began making food to the menu, including burgers, breakfasts, coffee bar, catering and more. COVID was a big bump in the road, and they lost 90 percent of their traffic.
They are self-taught chefs, and over the years taught themselves all the chocolate and caramel techniques, along with their pastries and food. They have an eye for dazzling colors and creations with that wow factor.
They have some fun holiday events and items for December, including fun chocolate painting parties. Bring your group of ten or 15, and for $175 each, you will spend an evening with a professional art teacher while they walk you through painting on your canvas of chocolate with edible paints.
This three-hour event includes personal stories with Jonathan, a Q and A section, wine and hors d'oeuvres. You will be given a chocolate canvas, apron and everything needed to paint on your canvas.
Their holiday candies feature unique truffle sets you won’t find anywhere else. Their giant cookie catering platters feature ¼-pound cookies with 12 cookies each. These make wonderful holiday gifts.
“Let us up your gift giving with our corporate gifts, from four-piece boxes to larger collections and even painted truffles to match your company truffles with enough time,” he explained.
If you are searching for that gift that will bring a smile to any face this holiday season, this is your mouthwatering answer!
Visit bizzandweezy.com/ and find them at 1800 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO
Call 866-962-7953
YUM YUM YUM YUM YUM YUM
WINTER’S REVEL
Your Guide To a Simple and Stylized End-of-the-Year Soirée
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
Following closely on the coattails of autumnal and winter holidays, the celebration of the new year can often be overlooked due to an understandable desire to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season. But, a holiday that celebrates past memories and the opportunity for both new experiences and a fresh start shouldn’t lack any of the glitz of its celebratory predecessors. Round out the final days of the year reminiscing on or saying goodbye to the experiences—good and bad—of the previous 12 months with a simple end-ofthe-year gathering that isn’t lacking any of the glamour.
the drinks
Champagne has long been a traditional drink to toast to the new year. Keep it simple but step up your game with your own DIY Champagne cocktail bar. Consider stocking your bar full of custom Champagne or bubbly choices, festive mixers like cranberry juice or rosemary simple syrup and unique garnishes like fresh fruit and herbs or decorative ice cubes with edible flowers.
the decor
There’s no need to go out and buy a ton of additional decor when you just decked the halls (quite literally) with holiday ornamentation. Make those decorations work as hard as you did by repurposing all the greenery, pine cones and wood place settings you just couldn’t say no to. Throw in some neutral napkins, some natural twine and some dried orange peels for a woodsy (and fragrant) twist.
the snacks
Keep your guests happy with the perfect cheese plate. Consider how many people you’ll be serving, whether you’ll be serving before or after dinner and what cheeses you’ll want to include. According to WineFolly.com , sparkling wines pair best with creamy, sticky cheeses due to the high acidity and carbonation.
WHAT YOU NEED
• Cheese board or serving plate
• Assortment of cheeses
We recommend Brie, Port Salut, Muenster, Camembert or Gruyere
PUTTING IT TOGETHER
Cheese is best served at room temperature, so be sure your cheese has time to rest prior to serving. Slice the cheeses and arrange artfully on your cheese board with labels for each. Consider providing separate serving knives for each cheese to avoid any mixing of flavors. Add any additional bites you’d like and enjoy!
the traditions
No matter where you are in the world when the clock strikes midnight, ring in the new year internationally by taking part in one of these worldly traditions.
+ SPAIN Spend Nochevieja (“old night”) at home watching the countdown on TV—you can party later! Are you in need of some luck for the upcoming year? Wearing red underwear for the night may give you some.
+ MEXICO Be sure to have lots of grapes on hand. Demonstrated by Spaniards as well, this tradition involves eating 12 grapes with every strike of the clock, symbolizing good luck for every month of the new year.
+ DENMARK Destroy your frustrations and start the year fresh by smashing unwanted glassware. Danish tradition calls for smashing plates on the doors of friends and loved ones around midnight, but we think you should probably save that part for when you’re actually in Denmark.
+ SCOTLAND Although its singing has become pretty standard worldwide, “Auld Lang Syne” originated in Scotland in 1788 as a poem by Robert Burns. Go ahead and make a cheat sheet for all your friends—we won’t judge.
Holiday Cheesecake
INGREDIENTS
Graham cracker crust:
• 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbled
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
Cheesecake filling:
• 38 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup sour cream at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs at room temperature
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix graham cracker crumbs together with sugar and melted butter until well incorporated. Press crust into the bottom and half way up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake 7 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside.
2. Reduce oven temperature to 325° F. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream and vanilla. Mix again until incorporated.
3. Crack eggs into a small bowl, and using a fork, beat until mixed. With the mixer on low, slowly pour in the eggs into the cream cheese mixture and stir. Pour filling into the center of the graham cracker crust and gently smooth the top.
4. Bake for 30 minutes at 325° F. Reduce temperature to 250° F and continue cooking for 45 minutes more. Once done, turn oven off and keep cheesecake inside for another 30 minutes. Bring cheesecake to room temperature on the counter (3-4 hours) before covering with plastic wrap and place in the fridge.
5. Enjoy!
To add a festive flair, adorn with berries, fresh herbs or drizzle with a sauce.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
DECEMBER 1ST - 22ND
Hallmark Christmas Experience
Crown Center
Experience the charm of every Hallmark Christmas movie you’ve ever seen in the square of Crown Center! Kansas City hosts Hallmark Christmas Experience, the first of its kind and open to the public through December 22. Purchase tickets to mingle with the stars, attend creative workshops and sip and dine in style. View a full list of events online: experiencehallmarkchristmas.com/
DECEMBER 1ST - 30TH
The Luminary Walk
The Overland Park Arboretum
Kick off your holiday season with a festive walk through the lights. Choose from three unique experiences: The Luminary Walk which includes illuminated garden paths, live music, and photos with Santa. Or enjoy an adult's only candlelight stroll, or the Electric Glow, perfect for low-sensory needs and a quick, peaceful walkthrough of the glowing gardens and gnome houses. Get your tickets at opabg.org
DECEMBER 6TH - 24TH
The Nutcracker
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts | 7:30 PM
The Kansas City Ballet invites you to ignite your imagination this Christmas during the classic, fun-filled holiday tradition of The Nutcracker. The story follows beloved characters like Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, Dr. Drosselmeier, and the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy living in the Victorian Era during a magical theater performance that will leave you in awe. Tickets are available online: kcballet.org/events/the-nutcracker/
DECEMBER 14TH
Westport Christmas Market
Westport | 10:00 AM
Mark your calendars for the second-ever Westport Christmas Market! Step into a winter wonderland as the Westport streets transform into a one-stop shop for Christmas goodies as local holiday music fills the air. Check off your Christmas list with gifts and crafts from local makers and artists while sipping on hot chocolate or a hot toddy. Learn more online: westportkcmo.com
DECEMBER 15TH
Great Santa Run 5K
Park Place, Leawood | 8:00 AM
The 15th annual Great Santa Run 5K is a great way to celebrate the holiday season while supporting Operation Breakthrough. We are excited to hold the race at a new location this year, Park Place in Leawood. Participants will receive a finishers medal and can purchase a race shirt for a small additional fee. To sign up visit https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Leawood/GreatSantaRun5K
DECEMBER 31ST
Around the World on NYE: Passport to 2025
The Fontaine | 8:00 PM
Usher in 2025 with bold flavors and a champagne celebration! Your pallet will thank you as you adventure around the world on New Year's Eve at The Fontaine Hotel, tasting globally inspired dishes and drinks and enjoying live music to carry you through the night. Tickets are $100 per person and can be purchased online at eventbrite.com/
Happy Holidays
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CONFECTION
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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
