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November 14.2025
2 Minutes Read

Union Station’s Enchanting Transformation: A Wonderland for Youth Mental Health

Benefit25 Wonder Event attendees smiling and enjoying the occasion.

Union Station Transformed for a Night of Magic

On November 14, 2025, the historic Union Station in Kansas City was buzzing with excitement and laughter as it morphed into a vibrant 'Wonderland' for the KidsTLC Benefit25: Wonder gala. This remarkable evening successfully raised over $430,000 aimed at supporting youth mental health programs. Among the event highlights was a thrilling car raffle that alone brought in an impressive $30,000, showcasing the community's commitment to fostering mental and behavioral support for children and families.

A Night to Remember: Highlights from the Event

The event was a spectacular mixture of live illusions, interactive fun, and gourmet dining that purveyors of local food knew well how to deliver. With a lively after-party featuring DJ Ashton Martin, attendees were treated to an unforgettable night. Guests enjoyed delicious offerings from some of the best restaurants in Kansas City, creating a vibrant culinary experience. This synergy was not just for entertainment; it also highlighted local chefs and eateries, showcasing why Kansas City boasts some of the best BBQ and family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Building a Community Through Celebration

KidsTLC is a nonprofit dedicated to making a positive impact on youth mental health through various innovative programs. Wishing to cultivate deeper connections within the Kansas City community, they made this event not just a fundraiser but a celebration of unity and purpose. As Erin Dugan, CEO of KidsTLC, emphasized, the collective effort of sponsors, attendees, and volunteers directly contributes to essential services for the children they serve.

Exploring the Future Impact of Local Events

Events like Benefit25 lay the groundwork for future initiatives aimed at improving youth services. Looking ahead, the upcoming Benefit26: Empower is set for September 11, 2026, promising an even richer experience with elegant dining and exclusive auctions. Participants can anticipate an extraordinary connection with Kansas City's vibrant community spirit, enhancing local culture and support systems for youth.

Get Involved: How to Support Kansas City's Youth

For those who couldn't attend—but still wish to contribute—there are ample opportunities to support KidsTLC and similar initiatives. Each donation helps provide critical services for children affected by mental health challenges. By staying engaged and considering local participation in events, community members can show their support for the wellbeing of future generations.

Your Story Matters!

Do you have a story to share, or perhaps details about upcoming events in Kansas City? Community connections are vital to enhancing local narratives. We're always eager to hear from you, so feel free to drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com!

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11.13.2025

Vivien Jennings Celebrates 50 Years of Rainy Day Books: The Heart of Local Literature

Explore the journey of independent bookstores in Kansas City with Vivien Jennings' Rainy Day Books, celebrating 50 years of community and literature.

11.13.2025

Discover the Sweet New Spot: Mo’ Pies Opens in Leawood!

Update Mo’ Pies Brings Sweet Delights to Leawood In the heart of Leawood, a delectable new chapter begins with Mo’ Pies. This beloved pie pop-up, established in 2020, has quickly captured the hearts and taste buds of local residents with its unique and flavorful offerings. Run by Curt Lafferty, a former executive from Tippin’s Pies, Mo’ Pies is set to open its first brick-and-mortar store at 7956 Lee Blvd. in Leawood, within the charming Somerset Shops. From Farmers Markets to Storefront Success For five years, Mo’ Pies has become a staple at farmers markets across the Kansas City metro area. Its swift rise to popularity can be attributed to the delightful flavors and high-quality ingredients that Lafferty prioritizes. The decision to establish a permanent location speaks to the growing demand for its pies, especially as the holiday season approaches. As customers stream into the new outlet, the pie shop invites a sweet sense of community and provides a tangible connection with its patrons. Order Online to Ensure Your Favorite Pies While the storefront will eventually be equipped with a full production kitchen, Lafferty plans to start operations through online orders. During the holiday seasons, customers can conveniently pick up their pre-ordered pies from the storefront, ensuring they have their favorites ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas. With popular offerings like chocolate bourbon pecan, pumpkin, French silk, and a festive chocolate peppermint pie, pie lovers are encouraged to place their orders early to avoid disappointment—especially given high demand. Seasonal Flavors to Watch For Beyond the regular menu, Mo’ Pies has exciting plans for seasonal flavors. Once the store is fully operational, fans can anticipate the addition of banana cream pie, which will be available for day-of pickup due to its limited shelf life. Lafferty also hints at enticing summer flavors like jalapeno apple and cherry limeade, alongside savory treats like quiches and shepherd’s pie during colder months. This diverse and rotating menu ensures there’s always something new for returning customers. The Unique Flavors Behind Mo’ Pies What sets Mo’ Pies apart in the highly competitive dessert landscape? Lafferty prides himself on the flaky crust—a hallmark of true pie craftsmanship—and the authenticity of the flavors. He sources fruits from various regions, making sure each pie truly reflects its namesake fruit. For example, his cherry pies combine dark cherries from northern states and tart cherries from southern states, resulting in a flavor profile that resonates deeply with customers' expectations. This commitment to quality has garnered rave reviews from the community, for pies that taste as vibrant as the fruits they celebrate. Community Spirit and Local Connections Another anchor of Mo’ Pies’ success is Lafferty’s hands-on approach at local farmers markets. Working directly with customers not only builds relationships but also allows Lafferty to receive instant feedback, which he values greatly. His philosophy of bringing a personal touch to his business mirrors the broader trend of shoppers looking to support local artisans and businesses, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Joining the Excitement of Leawood's Local Scene As Mo’ Pies integrates into the Leawood community, Lafferty is not just focused on selling pies; he hopes to be an integral part of local events and happenings. The growing local food movement makes now an ideal time for Lafferty to share his expertise and passion for crafting high-quality edible art. Pies are not merely desserts in this scenario; they are conversation starters, bond-makers, and memories in the making. Culinary Adventures Await at Mo’ Pies For the locals eagerly awaiting the grand opening, the new Mo’ Pies storefront will be an exciting culinary adventure right in their backyard. In a world that increasingly values community, good food, and shared experiences, Mo’ Pies stands out with its delicious offerings and commitment to quality. Be sure to mark your calendars for the Thanksgiving and Christmas pickups to indulge in some of the best pies in the Kansas City region. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com

11.12.2025

Discovering the Best BBQ in Kansas City: The Journey of Brandon Simpson

Update From the Field to the Grill: Brandon Simpson's Journey Brandon Simpson recalls, with a nostalgic smile, the moment his college football team, the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats, clinched the 1999 NCAA Division II National Championship against Carson-Newman. "It was the greatest game ever played," he reflects, an audible excitement in his voice. Little did he know that his path to success would lead not only through the grit of football but also into the sizzling world of barbecue. Pursuing a Culinary Dream: The Birth of Jazzy B's Coming off the adrenaline of a championship-winning season, Simpson's journey didn’t quite follow the trajectory most would expect. Though initially a Division I recruit at Kansas State University, he found his true calling at Northwest. After a brief tenure in the Arena Football League, he shifted gears dramatically—working in construction sales and even selling pianos. Despite the career changes, the culinary flame within him never dimmed. Having envisioned a seafood steakhouse called Jazzy B’s, Simpson was eventually compelled to pursue barbecue. Inspired by the then-nascent food truck culture, he took a leap of faith in 2009. "Kansas City wasn’t food truck-friendly back then, but we were all trying to figure it out," he humorously recalls. With the food truck as his experimental kitchen, Simpson began to merge Kansas City barbecue with various culinary influences. Featured dishes like barbecue sushi and Tex-Mex favorites became crowd-pleasers, all while honoring local flavors. A Menu That Dares to Be Different In 2016, Simpson officially opened Jazzy B’s Diner in Lee’s Summit, showcasing an expansive menu he describes as a portrayal of his culinary versatility. "I didn’t want to be just another barbecue joint," he insists, and his boldness seems to pay off. Customers can expect to find not only brisket and ribs but also innovative dishes like po’ boys, quesadillas, and the celebrated fried grilled cheese stuffed with portobello mushrooms. His signature Garlic Cheesy Corn and Miles Davis Baked Beans offer unexpected depths of flavor, all while maintaining the essence of Kansas City cuisine. Community: The Heart of Barbecue For Simpson, barbecue transcends food; it's about bringing people together. He fondly recalls team dinners at his college hangout, Toot-Toot in Bethany, and now finds joy in serving meals to current athletes. With his restaurant featuring big screens airing Bearcats games and live music events, it has transformed into a hub for community connection. "It's about sharing experiences, creating bonds over a meal," he explains, reflecting on the pivotal role food plays in fostering relationships. Support Local: Why Jazzy B's is a Must-Visit For local residents seeking family-friendly restaurants or an exciting dining experience, Jazzy B’s encapsulates the spirit of Kansas City. Whether you're craving the best burnt ends in Kansas City or looking for the top BBQ in the region, Simpson’s innovative approach will not disappoint. Moreover, his commitment to community shines through, making Jazzy B’s a staple for locals and visitors alike. A Culinary Future Inspired by Football As he continues to innovate and expand his menu, Brandon Simpson’s journey from the football field to the kitchen remains unique. His experiences have fueled a mission to push the boundaries of what Kansas City barbecue can be. As the seasons change and football games heat up, locals can anticipate even more exciting dishes coming out of Jazzy B’s. So next time you’re searching for restaurants near you or places to eat in Kansas City, remember the story behind those sizzling platters at Jazzy B’s. Simpson encourages you to come and become part of the gathering, where every meal is an opportunity to connect and celebrate. If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

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