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...

Education

Beyond the Forecast

How Pete Grigsby’s broadcasting career is shaping students at Blue Springs South High School Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Janie Jones For many years, he has been a voice of calm during a thunderstorm, guiding us through the unpredictable Midwest skies. But instead of seeing Pete Grigsby on air during a weekday morning broadcast, you’ll find him at Blue Springs South High School, working with students on the fundamentals of storytelling, production, and communication. At school...

Home + Design

Honest Maids to the Rescue

Even the busiest moms deserve a little relief and a fresh start Article by Breanna Hicks | Photography by Amanda Krier Crystal knows what it’s like to have a busy household. As a mom of a teenage son and a young daughter, her days are filled with responsibilities—keeping up with schedules, manages a home, and makes sure everyone is taken care of.   A few years ago, Crystal faced an unexpected challenge. In 2022, she found herself laid off and navigating the uncertainty of being a single mom...

Health + Wellness

More Than Skin Deep

Inside Indigo Med Spa, where connection comes first Article by Mary King | Photography by Janie Jones At first glance, Indigo Med Spa offers what you might expect: facials, injectables, skin treatments designed to help women look and feel their best. But step inside, and it becomes clear; this isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about something deeper. “This isn’t just about beauty,” said Suzanne Singleton, owner of Indigo Med Spa. “This is a movement.” A Shift in Purpose Indigo Med Spa...

Shopping

Mother's Day Gift Guide

Support local and celebrate Mom with the perfect gift Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Krier Photo Trying to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift? Make this Mother's Day meaningful with a gift found close to home. We’ve rounded up some of the most unique local finds in beauty, wellness, home, and style to help you find the perfect match for every woman on your list. Explore our selection and find the perfect gift for the amazing women in your life. 1. Swimwear, cover-ups, and...

Food + Beverage

A Taste of Spring

Where sweet and savory flavors meet in a fresh twist on a classic Photography by Janie Jones Photography Spring is right around the corner, and it is the perfect time to gather with friends and family to enjoy good food, drinks and company. Lauren Lane Culinarian is sharing a few of her go-to brunch recipes perfect for entertaining. Setting the stage for your guests makes the experience that much sweeter. LeAnn Parker is sharing a fun DIY to personalize your table.  Strawberry Bruschetta ...

Fitness

Investing In Your Health

Redefining what it means to work out and why it matters Article by Grace Utlaut Investing in your health is deeply personal for Jacque Eidson, the owner bringing BODYBAR Pilates to Blue Springs. Her philosophy was shaped by her own cancer journey, a season when movement had to heal, not exhaust. Today, that experience shapes her studio and the way she invites locals to redefine what it means to "work out." For Jacque, true health investment means choosing sustainable movement rather than...

Home + Design

Valuable Home Upgrades

Home improvement tips that can add value to your home Article by Tyler Long Homeowners invest a lot of time and money into their homes, but they don’t realize that not all those upgrades will truly increase the home’s value. Whether you’re selling your house now, in a few months, or in a couple of years, making strategic improvements matter. Over-improving, neglecting necessary repairs, or cutting corners rarely produces the return homeowners hope to attain. So who can help homeowners with...

Life + Culture

Making a Difference

Two local nonprofits are stepping up to support families and individuals in need Article by Katarina Brewer Mary Parts, One Body Nourishing families and inspiring service across the community When Alex Duval and Matt Hakes first met, they were teaching together at Blue Springs High School. Bonded by friendship and faith, they began noticing a growing need in the community for access to nutritious food. In July 2024, alongside their wives, they founded Many Parts, One Body. What began as a...