Health + Wellness

Embrace Daily Joy with Gratitude Journaling

Discover How a Simple Practice Can Enhance Your Happiness and Well-Being in Three Easy Steps Article by Katarina Brewer In our hectic lives, it's easy to overlook the little things that bring us joy. Here’s a quick practice that can shift your mindset and boost your well-being: Gratitude Journaling. Research shows that regularly noting what you’re grateful for can significantly increase happiness, reduce stress, and provide a fresh perspective on life. Meyers Funeral Chapel provides three...

Local Services

Thank You for Your Service

Celebrating the Dedication and Resilience of Public Service Workers Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided In our communities, countless public service workers dedicate themselves to our safety and well-being, often without recognition. From brave firefighters rushing into danger to police officers ensuring security and educators inspiring future generations, these unsung heroes embody commitment and resilience. This November, let’s spotlight their tireless efforts and express...

Life + Culture

Embracing Nature

A Family’s Grateful Adventure Through Local Trails Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Jes Horton Shannon Sundberg, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, hasn’t always been interested in hiking, but now she truly cherishes it. For her, spending time on local trails isn’t just about exercising or the scenery; it’s about connection—both with nature and her loved ones. Growing up in Blue Springs, Shannon has always valued the community. Now, she and her husband, Dan, have planted their...

Life + Culture

Connecting with the Mayor

Blue Springs Mayor Chris Lievsay Opens Up About Family, Community, and the Future Article by Katarina Brewer | Photography by Provided Explore the journey and insights of Mayor Chris Lievsay, a leader profoundly connected to the Blue Springs community. With a strong commitment to fostering a thriving environment for future generations, the Mayor shares his thoughts on community engagement, the momentum behind recent initiatives, and his hopes for a prosperous Blue Springs. We ask him to share...

Auto + Marine

What Those Dashboard Lights Really Mean

Christian Brothers Automotive’s Guide: How to Read and Respond to Your Vehicle’s Warning Lights Article by Katarina Brewer Have you ever wondered what a light near your car’s gauges means? You’re not alone. Your car’s computer manages many complex functions, and understanding these lights can be crucial. Tim Porter, from Christian Brothers Automotive in Independence, offers a guide to help you decode these indicators and decide on the appropriate actions.  Check Engine Light: This...

Food + Beverage

Discovering Local Flavor

A Guide to Some of the Best Food Trucks in Town Article by Katarina Brewer GOCHEW GOCHEW Burger & Sandwich, Kansas City’s first Korean American fast food truck, was founded by Joohae "Chewy" Yoon. To introduce Kansas Citians to Korea's irresistible flavors, Chewy has combined classic American favorites with sweet and savory Korean spices. “In college, I would cook Korean food for my friends. Over time, I learned how to adjust traditional recipes to make them more accessible,” says Chewy. ...

Local Services

Pawportunities: Transforming Animal Lives

Leading the Way in Life-Changing Animal Welfare Article by Katarina Brewer Pawportunities is on a mission to transform lives through compassionate animal welfare. They serve our community with essential services like low-cost vaccination clinics, and trap/neuter/return programs for cats. They also assist people with pet food and run various educational programs within our local school districts.  Their adoption process involves a detailed application, ensuring pets are well-matched with...

Home + Design

Essential Prep Steps to Winter-Proof Your Home

How to Get Your House Ready for Cold Weather Article by Katarina Brewer As winter approaches, ensuring your home is ready for the chill is crucial. Local real estate agent, Amy Arndorfer, offers some essential steps to keep your space cozy and efficient.  1. Insulate Effectively Cold Missouri air can sneak into your home and drive up utility bills. Start by inspecting your attic for any thinning insulation. If necessary, call an insulation contractor to enhance your home's defenses. Don’t...

Food + Beverage

Food As Art

Essential Eats Grazing, LLC | A Cafe & Catering Kitchen Article by Cheryl Leppert | Photography by Megan Cason and Kayley Adams “We believe that good food and good company help to fuel a positive and healthy lifestyle.” Some people see food as, well… food! But Kayley and Tyler Adams, owners of Essential Eats Grazing, LLC, see food as a way to bring people together and a way to change lives.  “No matter what life throws at you,” says chef and business founder Kayley, “at the end of the day...

Real Estate

Navigating the Real Estate Market

Essential Tips From Shaun Ashley for Buying & Selling Your Home Article by Katarina Brewer The real estate market is always evolving, and it’s critical to ask the right questions to ensure you’re picking a partner you can trust. As the housing market begins to gain momentum, local RE/MAX Heritage realtor Shaun Ashley offers valuable insights for both buyers and sellers. With over 15 years of experience and a team of more than 10 dedicated agents, the Shaun Ashley Team is well-equipped to guide...