Local Services

Best Friends Deserve a Plan

Helping families protect beloved pets through life’s unexpected moments Article by Breanna Hicks | Photography by Krier Photo Misty Jo wasn’t just a beloved pet, she was family.  “She taught me about unconditional love, devotion, and the incredible bond we share with our pets.” says Tiffany Obermeyer. “She also inspired me to think about what might happen to a beloved pet if they suddenly lost the person they depend on most.” That question stayed with Tiffany. While working alongside...

Life + Culture

The Daily Stroll

Some of the best year-round local parks for you and your pup Article by Katarina Brewer A walk with your dog is about more than getting in a few extra steps. Every outing introduces new sights, sounds and experiences that help build confidence, reinforce good behavior and strengthen the bond you share. Whether you're working on basic obedience or looking for a new place to explore, Dog Training Elite KC trainer Kaylee Phillips has rounded up some of her favorite parks in Blue Springs, Grain...

Education

Shaping the Future

An inside look at the new Blue Springs School District Career Innovation Center Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Megan Cason When you walk inside the brand-new Annette Seago Career Innovation Center (CIC), it becomes immediately clear that this is not your typical school setup. The facility is breathtaking, but it is the thoughtful design that truly captures your attention. With an open-concept layout and an abundance of flexible seating options, the space feels vibrant and full of...

Sports + Recreation

Reaching New Heights

How IBEX Climbing Gym is building confidence and resilience one climb at a time Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Janie Jones For some kids, their curiosity for climbing begins on a tree in the backyard. For others, it's conquering the monkey bars at the park or scrambling up the furniture they're constantly being told not to climb on. What often starts as a fun challenge can become an opportunity to build confidence, resilience and problem-solving skills.  For over 30 years, IBEX...

Finance + Legal Services

Building More Than Wealth

How Jodie and Dan Orel built a family-centered financial practice in Blue Springs Article by Mary King | Photography by Megan Cason For 30 years, Jodie and Dan Orel have helped families in Blue Springs plan for the future, protect what matters most and build long-term financial confidence. Through their Primerica office in Blue Springs, the couple focuses on helping individuals and families navigate everything from buying their first life insurance policy to mapping out a path for retirement...

Life + Culture

Before Blue Springs was Blue Springs

Exploring the early history of Blue Springs and the people who helped shape it Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Blue Springs Historical Society What comes to mind when you pass the “Blue Springs” sign as you drive down I-70, or when someone asks you to tell you about the place you call home?  Maybe you think of the top-tier schools or local parks you’ve enjoyed with family and friends. Perhaps a specific event, business, or restaurant comes to mind.  For many years, Blue Springs...

Food + Beverage

Sweet Summer Kabobs

An easy, fresh grilling recipe perfect for backyard dinners and summer cookouts Article by Katarina Brewer Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Nothing says summer quite like the smell of food cooking on the grill. These pineapple chicken kabobs are a fun and easy go-to meal. This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with homemade marinade for a delicious dish full of summer flavor. One of my favorite things about kabobs is how simple they make dinner for the whole family. Everyone can build...

Travel

Where Wellness Meets Travel

At Xinalani in Puerto Vallarta, the goal isn’t escape—it’s reconnection. Article and Photography by Megan Bohannon Imagine waking up to a warm breeze and the sound of waves crashing into the shore instead of an alarm clock and a screen full of notifications. From an open-air jungle shala tucked into the hillside, the day begins slowly: local cuisine, movement, yoga and rest. In a culture obsessed with productivity, optimization and the perfect morning routine, that kind of stillness feels...

Finance + Legal Services

A Man Worth Knowing

Chad Smith on faith, family and the quiet work of showing up Article by Grace Utlaut | Photography by Krier Photo If you’ve spent any time around Blue Springs, at a Chamber luncheon, in a church classroom, or on the sidelines of a youth basketball game, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Chad Smith. A longtime State Farm agent, husband, father, coach, and Sunday school teacher, Chad has spent decades investing in the people and places that make this town feel like home. At the heart of it...

Arts + Culture

Music and Imagination Collide

How the Art That Blows is turning retired instruments into a future of belonging Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided What happens to a trumpet that can no longer play a note? Or a violin that played in its last show? In the music world, this is a heartbreaking moment for any musician, but The Band of Angels takes these “unplayable” instruments and turns them into masterpieces with a mission.  Since 2014, the Band of Angels has been taking retired instruments that once served...