Finance + Legal Services

Understanding the Basics of Estate Planning

Understanding the Basics of Estate Planning: Why Every Adult Needs a PlanIntroductionEstate planning is one of those topics people often put off thinking about. It can feel complicated, morbid, or irrelevant—especially if you're young or don't consider yourself wealthy. But the truth is simple: if you own anything of value and care about what happens to it and to your loved ones, you need an estate plan. It's not just for the rich, and it's not just about death—it's about protecting your family...

Style + Beauty

Love in the Details

From timeless classics to contemporary designs, discover the styles, settings, and details that make a ring uniquely yours Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Megan Cason Whether you're celebrating a new engagement, an anniversary, or a new chapter together, today's rings are as unique as the stories they represent. While some are drawn to classic cuts, others embrace bold designs, unique settings, and details that reflect their personal style. At Kennedy's Custom Jewelers, couples...

Life + Culture

The Years that Shaped Blue Springs

How a small town grew into a community people recognize and call home Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Blue Springs Historical Society Today, Main Street in Blue Springs is a place where people gather. It’s home to local shops, community events and businesses owners who give downtown its character. But long before parades, restaurants and well-known coffee shops, this stretch of town was where Blue Springs began to take shape. Reflecting on his move to Blue Springs almost 50 years...

Shopping

Inspired by Fall

Local boutique owners model their favorite fall looks, bringing current style trends straight to you Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided AAfire Boutique  Heather Clark Heather Clark founded AAfire Boutique three years ago, after feeling called to create a business that combined her faith with a desire to give back. Inspired by Matthew 5:16, she uses her boutique as a way to serve others, supporting orphanages and mission work around the world. “The entire purpose of my...

Beauty

The Heart of Salon Bellezzio

How Shanon Van Dyne balances business, community, and family-first values with a passion for empowering others Article by Genavieve Hudson | Photography by Krier Photo “Can I phone a friend?” Shanon Van Dyne asked when questioned about her leadership style. Stylist Brooke Harris answered without hesitation. “She’s like a mom. She always wants the best for you and is so supportive. She doesn’t make you feel like she’s above you or better than you, or like you're less than her. She really wants...

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...

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...