Travel

Life Slows Down on the Rhine

A Riverside cruise of elegance and discovery Article by Laura Legg | Photography by Provided Sailing down the Rhine on Riverside Debussy felt like stepping into a dream—and one we were deeply thankful for. From the moment we boarded, it felt less like a cruise and more like a boutique hotel on water, where every detail balanced comfort, discovery, and gratitude. Our Riverside Suite became a sanctuary. A walk-in closet, panoramic balcony window, and spa-style bathroom made it hard to believe...

Professional Services

Where Gratitude Lives On

Inside Blue Springs’ last family-owned funeral home and the legacy it continues to honor Article by Mary King | Photography by Megan Cason In the quiet, reverent halls of Meyers Funeral Chapel, gratitude isn’t just a seasonal sentiment. It’s a way of doing business. Founded more than three decades ago, Meyers Funeral Chapel has served generations of families across Eastern Jackson County. Today, as one of the last remaining family-owned and operated funeral homes in the region, Meyers...

Finance + Legal Services

Holiday Budget Tips

Practical holiday tips for saving and stress-free spending Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided The holidays are a time for joy, family, and celebration—but they can also strain the wallet. Jodie Orel, Financial Advisor with Primerica, shares strategies to help families stretch their budgets, reduce stress, and enjoy the season without overspending. From setting a budget to giving meaningful experiences, these tips keep spending on track and make the holidays more manageable...

Life + Culture

A Heart in Motion

A journey of service, gratitude, and unforgettable experiences Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Brontell Over the summer, 12 Blue Springs High School female student-athletes and four coaches traded practices and games for a weeklong service trip to Harmons, Jamaica, with the organization Won by One to Jamaica . The students represented multiple sports, including soccer, basketball, softball, and volleyball, ranging from freshmen to seniors.  The group served a small, remote jungle...

Food + Beverage

Fearless Flavor

Reinventing indulgence with vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly treats that are made safe, inclusive, and seriously unforgettable. Article by Breanna Hicks | Photography by Megan Cason - Case Studios Photography Lara’s Cakes and Bakes, located in downtown Blue Springs, is not your typical bakery. Do they have cinnamon rolls and cookies? Yes, but they have so much more than that! So what makes them unique?  Owner Lara says, “Our bakery is 100% gluten free and celiac safe. I want everyone...

Food + Beverage

Swing. Sip. Stay Awhile.

Indoor Par Fore offers drinks, golf and good times in Blue Springs Article by Mary King | Photography by Krier Photo When Kathy and Michael Kellis first considered opening a business together, the idea wasn’t fully formed. Kathy, a veteran bartender with 25 years of experience, had long dreamed of owning her own bar. Michael, a lifelong golfer, had been refining a home golf simulator setup in their garage for over a decade. Their first attempt — a bar concept at the Lake of the Ozarks — was...

Professional Services

Strength in the Fight

Vanessa Starke’s journey through breast cancer: courage, awareness, and hope Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Janie Jones Every October, we’re surrounded by a wave of pink — a symbol of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a call to remember the importance of screenings, education, and support. But every pink ribbon represents more than awareness; it represents a story. Some are stories of survival, others of loss — but all belong to people and families in our communities. For Blue...

Food + Beverage

Simply Delicious

Delicious flavors from Sinclair's Restaurant, perfect for any occasion Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided Shane Miller, owner of Sinclair's Restaurant, brings his culinary creativity straight to your kitchen, sharing two of his favorite recipes that are sure to delight any occasion.   Bulldog Smash Ingredients: 1 oz Crown Royal 1 oz Cointreau 1 oz peach purée ¼ oz fresh lemon juice Directions: Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake...

Travel

Reality TV Vacation Hot Spots in Mexico and the Caribbean

Ever wonder where reality TV stars escape for their beach vacations? While some jet off to private islands, many of the stunning resorts you've seen on your favorite shows are surprisingly accessible—and perfect for your next luxurious getaway. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic escape or a trip with friends, here’s where to vacation like a reality star—no Bravo drama required.Read on to discover some of our favorite escapes from reality, or check out our Top 5 Caribbean Islands for a Luxury...

Food + Beverage

Styled to Serve

Where fashion meets flavor and presentation is everything Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Krier Photo When it comes to fashion and design, style isn’t limited to your outfit—it continues to the table. Just ask Kayley and Tyler Adams, the creative husband-and-wife duo behind Essential Eats Grazing LLC, a local catering company that turns food into an art form. Known for their beautifully styled grazing tables and thoughtful presentation, they bring elevated design and bold flavor to...