Blue Springs, MO August 2024 by City Lifestyle

Summertime Fun

At our house, we love summer. There’s something about the sunshine, going to the pool, grilling out, the smell of fresh-cut grass, and of course, the 4th of July. With my wife being a school teacher, summertime is also a perfect opportunity to take a family vacation. We recently took a family trip to Colorado where we enjoyed the outdoors and making memories with family. During the last month, we have attended several community events. It always amazes me the unique people, places, and things that our community has to offer. Getting to meet new people and hear their stories, has been one of our favorite parts about starting Blue Springs City Lifestyle.

Our vision is for this publication to be a cornerstone in our community for decades to come, and it takes those relationships to make that possible. If you see us out and about in the community, come say hi to us, we would love to meet you. You might even get a warm welcome from our dog if he is out and about with us.

In addition, scan the QR Code below to follow us on Instagram. We would love for you to send us photos of events and things happening around the community that you are a part of.

We are honored to call Blue Springs home and are so thankful that you have given us an opportunity to be a small part of your life.

AUSTIN BREWER, PUBLISHER @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATORS

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com, Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Katarina Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Megan Cason

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN AUGUST 2024

city scene

Want to be seen in the magazine?

1: Jason Craig and the Wingmen performing at the Concert in the Park. 2: Pedego donated a bike for the Believe Illuminating Hope Fundraiser with Hope House. 3: Red, White & Blue Springs spectacular fireworks show. 4: Bootcamp + Brew with Trinity Wellness and East Forty Brewing. 5: Picking fresh blackberries at Fahrmeier’s Farms. 6: Blue Springs Corks and Canvas event. 7: Bobby Kerr with The Shaun Ashley Team, at RE/ MAX Heritage & HERO Fund Charity Golf.

KATARINA BREWER

ANTHEM PHOTOGRAPHY

TRINITY WELLNESS

PEDEGO

SHAUN ASHLEY TEAM

KATARINA BREWER

Meyer knows Music education

FOR 58 YEARS, Meyer Music has worked to promote and support music education in Kansas City. We know that participating in band, orchestra and music programs develops successful students and builds strong communities. Whether your student is picking up an instrument for the first time, or further along on their musical journey, Meyer Music is with you to provide beginning to performance-level instruments and rental packages that meet or exceed your required supply list. We also offer exceptional private lessons that will help your student quickly advance their skills.

BAND INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES

business monthly

New Ownership, Same Trusted Smiles

Dr. Tiffani Uberroth is thrilled to announce her new role as the owner of Once Upon a Smile, a cherished dental practice focused on gentle family dentistry. With a commitment to compassionate care, Dr. Uberroth aims to strengthen community bonds, ensuring every patient feels valued. Her vision is to be the top destination for comprehensive dental services with a welcoming atmosphere. She anticipates creating beautiful smiles and nurturing endured patient relationships across all ages.

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The Shaun Ashley Team MVP Event

The Shaun Ashley Team at RE/MAX Heritage celebrated the 4th of July by giving back to the community in a spectacular way. The team bundled over 100 fireworks packages, totaling over $3,000 in value, for their MVP clients in Eastern Jackson County. The event not only spread festive cheer but also showcased their commitment to the community.

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iMove PT Celebrates 2 Years

iMove PT Kansas City celebrated their 2nd year anniversary, marking a milestone of dedicated service and exceptional patient care. iMove PT has had over 3,000 patient encounters, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of the Kansas City community. As they continue to grow, iMove PT remains focused on delivering personalized, innovative physical therapy solutions that help their patients move better and live healthier lives.

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Photography by Lauren Uberroth

Photography by Shawn Ashley Team

Photography by Craig Lee

Big Savings and Limited Editions at Merle Norman

Get ready to save big with a 40% OFF SALE on select Limited Editions Merle Norman products and vibrant Spring, Summer, and Americana decorations! They are making room for their upcoming and exciting new Fall, Halloween, and Holiday arrivals. Be sure to stop by before it’s too late!

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New Event Space Available at Trinity Wellness

Are you looking for the perfect space for your private event or class? Trinity Wellness offers a cozy and spacious boho chic style studio that is suitable for any occasion. This versatile space is ideal for individuals seeking accommodations for a few hours, a full day, or even an entire weekend. Check availability and get more information at www.trinitywellnesskc.com/studio-rental.html

New Partner - Meyer Music

Since 1966, Meyer Music has been dedicated to enhancing the Blue Springs and Kansas City communities through music education and providing access to high-quality instruments. Meyer Music has always been committed to musical excellence. They offer a wide array of lessons and programs tailored to musicians of every age and skill level. Discover more about Meyer Music and explore its diverse program at www.meyermusic.com.

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Photography by Trinity Wellness

Photography by Katarina Brewer

Photography Provided

DR. CRAIG LEE PT, DPT, Owner

A LEGACY OF CRAFTSMANSHIP, COMMUNITY, AND LOVE

Four Decades of Brilliance

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

Their love ignited our passions and instilled the importance of integrity and customer satisfaction.

Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers has been a beloved fixture in the community for over four decades. What started out as a life tragedy became the legacy of original owner Jim Kennedy’s life work. At the age of 22, Jim was in a terrible car accident, forcing him to change career paths. He went to watch-making school to learn a new vocation and started working for a local jeweler. During that time he met his beautiful bride Becky. In 1983 Jim with the support of his wife Becky founded Kennedy’s Jewelers.

From the beginning, Jim wanted Kennedy’s to be known for their exceptional designs, craftsmanship, personalized customer service, and community support. He believed to be successful they had to care about people and earn their trust. As second-generation owners, Aaron Kennedy and Trisha KennedyThompson, continue to uphold the values set by their parents when Kennedy’s was first established.

When asked about how being second-generation owners has influenced their approach to the business today, Aaron and Trisha both agreed they were fortunate to witness their parents’ commitment firsthand. “Our parents learned from their achievements and mistakes, and we were lucky to be there for those experiences. Their love for the craft ignited our own passions and instilled the importance of integrity and customer satisfaction.”

Kennedy’s Jewelers continues to uphold the core values passed down from Jim and Becky Kennedy. “Our father believed in investing in customer satisfaction,” Trisha explained. “This philosophy remains central to our business today, alongside

our commitment to community involvement. We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us.”

Today Kennedy’s Jewelers gives back to the community in various of ways, including scholarships, and supporting multiple nonprofit organizations. They are also active members in community-focused organizations including the Blue Springs Education Foundation and the Rainbow Center. Trisha serves as the current treasurer of Blue Springs Rotary. “We strive to enrich the lives around us and make the world a better place. This was what our parents did over 40 years ago and we want to continue that legacy for years to come.”

When reflecting on being in business for 41 years, Kennedy’s Jewelers has witnessed dramatic industry transformations. Aaron and Trisha recall their parents having no computers and all the tickets being handwritten. Now there are CAD Cams to help design those one-of-a-kind pieces that each client envisions, and Kennedy’s helps craft.

Kennedy’s continues to prioritize customer satisfaction, just like they did when they first opened their doors, but their approach has evolved. “Customer taste, particularly in engagement ring selection, has changed over time. When our dad was working he shared stories about seeing a bride’s eyes light up when they received that sensational handcrafted piece of jewelry from the one they loved. He loved being able to be a small part of that life-changing moment.” Aaron and Trisha shared with a smile on their face. “In our current era, there are thousands

This brings immeasurable joy to our work because of the love that goes into it. “ ”

of designs to choose from. Couples will often come in together and the bride-to-be is heavily involved in picking out her engagement ring.”

To ensure customers are happy, Trisha researches current and upcoming trends to guarantee inventory attracts any client that walks through their doors.

“We listen attentively to our clients’ preferences and consistently refresh our inventory to ensure it remains captivating. I take the time to hand-select each piece of jewelry we have. We want our customers to not only have the best options but know they are receiving high quality.”

Having been in business for over 41 years, there are thousands of memorable projects Kennedy’s has had the privilege of working on. “Some of our favorite projects are custom designs with personal significance. Oftentimes this is after

the loss of a loved one. We help customers take sentimental pieces of jewelry and redesign them into new pieces for them to wear and cherish. This brings immeasurable joy and meaning to our work because of the love that goes into it.”

As Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers look toward the future, they remain dedicated to upholding their legacy of excellence, while welcoming new generations and honoring their rich heritage.

Beyond their exceptional craftsmanship, Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers takes pride in their strong ties to the Blue Springs community. They are more than a jewelry store; they are a trusted partner in life’s most significant moments. Whether celebrating an engagement, anniversary, or personal achievement, Kennedy’s is there to provide guidance and support both in their store and out in the community.

ENHANCE YOUR HOME WITH HOUSE PLANTS

Indoor Oasis

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

““These are some green companions that bring nature’s goodness indoors. Bringing house plants into your home can enhance the aesthetic appeal.”

House plants aren’t just beautiful additions to your decor—they offer a wealth of benefits that can improve your overall well-being. Here’s why you should consider bringing more greenery into your home, along with our top picks for favorite house plants.

ZZ PLANT

The Zamioculcas Zamiifolia, commonly known as the ZZ plant, can thrive in spaces with limited sunlight. Its glossy leaves and minimal maintenance needs make it an ideal choice for busy individuals seeking to enhance indoor greenery with minimal upkeep. However, caution is advised as the ZZ plant is toxic if ingested, posing a risk to pets and children.

PRAYER PLANT

This plant can transform any space into a living art gallery with its striking colors and patterns. The Prayer Plants foliage not only adds a touch of natural beauty but also serves as a natural humidifier. Additionally, prayer plants are non-toxic, making them a safe choice for households with pets and young children.

POTHOS

Pothos plants are an excellent choice for beginners or anyone who wants to expand their plant collection effortlessly. They thrive in low light conditions, making them great for spaces such as offices and rooms with limited natural light. Pothos is known for its air-purifying qualities, and can effectively remove toxins from the air.

These are some green companions that bring nature’s goodness indoors. Bringing house plants into your home can enhance the aesthetic appeal, and contribute to a healthier and more balanced indoor environment.

morgan payton

Morgan currently serves as the Blue Springs School District FFA Advisor, bringing dedication and leadership to the organization. She has consistently brought groups of students to Missouri State for FFA for the last 15 years. Morgan was honored as the Blue Springs School District Teacher of the Year and the Kansas City Regional Teacher of the Year for the 2016-2017 academic year.

W A T C H THEM GROW

The days are long, but the years go fast. So they say with raising children. I have to agree with that sentiment. Each year as summer ends I find myself looking at my kids and reminding myself to “Watch them grow!” Both as a reminder to not miss the growth (with all the distractions and responsibilities that adult life brings) but also as reflection on how far they’ve come since the last time we turned the calendar page to August. Whether there are children in your life or not, I’m sure we can all agree that childhood is fleeting. Instead of stopping to smell the roses, I need to remind myself to “stop and watch them grow”—you can’t see it if you stare, but you’ll surely miss it if you blink! It helps me to set aside intentional time to be present with these fast little growers.

For us that looks like setting a special table to spend time sharing (or drawing) how we’ve seen them grow over the summer before jumping back into school routines. Making DIY game boards together and then having a family game night. Making snow cones for an after-dinner treat or, for a bigger wow factor, for breakfast! They will never forget that one, I promise. (Psst! my snow cones are made with fruit juice so it’s Mommy approved too!)

As August rolls in and the calendar tells us that it’s time for back-to-school shopping, the weather does not usually agree that the times are changing. I find that it’s such

a weird dance between what looks like the change of seasons when I open my calendar but not when I walk out my back door (heat wave!). On one hand, we’re still in full throttle of blazing temperatures in the Midwest and with no end in sight. At the same time, being thrown into back-to-school shopping, Meet-the-Teacher nights, resuming the regiment of packing school lunches, and if you’re a homeschool parent, all the to-do lists and lesson plans in order to launch into another school year. As we find ourselves

with one foot in summer and the other in a classroom, how do we embrace and (dare I say) celebrate this month? Instead of feeling ungrounded in the juxtaposition of August, I am inviting myself, and anyone who would join me, to embrace the opportunity to celebrate the in-between seasons that this month brings. My hope is that these ideas help spark your imagination on how to keep you cool in the heat, launch your kiddos into a new school year, and to set aside time to watch them grow.

DIY GAME BOARDS

Welcome more play into your life with this little DIY project. At our house we like to keep outdoor game boards around for short moments together as well as full blown game nights. These game boards are meant to be kept outside but could also be brought indoors as well.

Materials

• Pebbles for Checkers, 24 similar sized

• Small stones for Tic-Tac-Toe, 8 similar sized

• Acrylic paints (black, red, yellow and white)

• Paint brush

• Raw wooden boards + black paint marker

• Reclaimed wood + black acrylic paint

• Polycrylic spray

Instructions

1. Game Pieces: Paint your rocks with acrylic paint. For Tic-TacToe you’ll need a total of 8 rocks, 4 of each type (here I’ve painted 4 lady bugs and 4 bumble bees). For Checkers you’ll need a total of 24 rocks, 12 of each color (here I’ve used black stones, painting half of them red).

2. Game Board: For raw wood (such as our Tic-Tac-Toe board), use a ruler and black paint marker to create board lines. For reclaimed or treated wood, use paint. Let game pieces and game boards fully dry. Seal with a polycrylic spray for protection from heat and moisture.

SNOW CONES

We adore snow cones at our house! If you’ve been to our house then we’ve probably served them to you. A shaved ice machine makes it oh-so-easy! You can purchase premade snow cone syrup flavors or make your own healthier version by using fruit juice concentrates. Simply thaw the frozen fruit juice concentrate and put the liquid into squeezy bottles for an easy way to pour over shaved ice.

Assemble

• Ice, lots of ice!

• Snow Cone Machine

• Snow Cone Cups

• Snow Cone Straws

• Snow Cone Syrups (or frozen juice concentrates, thawed)

Use a snow cone machine to shave ice into snow cone cups. Top with your favorite flavor—either store bought snow cone syrups, homemade syrups, or our favorite—fruit concentrates. Stay cool and celebrate the last days of summer heat!

HIDDEN on main GEMS

Explore These and Other Local Shops on Main Street

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

1 - SCOUT COFFEE : Scout Coffee offers great coffee and tasty treats in a relaxing space to read or work.

2 - PINTS AND PLAY : With over 60 classic arcade games, Pints and Play is a great place to have fun and enjoy a drink.

3 - GENEVIEVE’S : Genevieve’s is a charming local boutique showcasing vintage treasures, home goods, gifts, and more.

4 - KREEAYT ART STUDIO : Discover an inspiring atmosphere at Kreeayt Art Studio that empowers artists on their creative paths. 1 2 3 4

berrygroupcompany@gmail.com

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

DOG

SOCIALIZING

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:

Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.

• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.

• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.

• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.

• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.

The Perfect Steak

ARTICLE BY CASEY WEBER, TALL GRASS MEAT COMPANY

Nothing describes summer better than a good cookout! And what is a cookout without a good, quality steak and the perfect grilling recipe?

1. Thaw and acclimate the steak. For searing to occur, the proteins in steak need to be heated to at least 310°F. Tossing cold meat onto a hot grill lowers the temperature and can prevent a crust from forming, so it’s important that any frozen steaks are thawed completely before cooking.

2. Salt your steak 30-45 minutes before grilling. This causes the salt to draw moisture from within the steak up to the surface, where it dissolves the salt and creates a brine that gets reabsorbed into the steak where it breaks down tough connective tissues.

3. Oil the grate on the grill, not the steak. Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to lube your grates.

4. Manage your heat well. Remember that your grill needs to be hot for your steak to get a good sear. But if it’s hot enough to cause your oil to smoke, it’s too hot.

5. Use the 60/40 rule. The best-tasting steaks are seared on both sides and cooked evenly in the middle. The simplest way to do that is to only flip your steak once. The 60/40 rule suggests that 60% of your cook time should be spent on one side, and 40% on the other.

6. Keep the lid closed. It may be tempting to peek, but trust the experts and keep it shut! Opening the lid makes your grill lose heat, which makes steaks cook unevenly.

7. Check for doneness. A meat thermometer will give you the most accurate temperature reading:

• Rare: 120°F

• Medium Rare: 130°F

• Medium: 140°F

• Medium Well: 150°F

• Well: 160°F

8. Let your steak rest. Pull your steaks from the grill once they’re cooked to 5-10 degrees below your target temperature and rest for 10-15 minutes.

summer is POPSICLE SEASON

KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kidfriendly activity. These recipes feature kid-favorite flavors with an added taste twist. The only tricky part is waiting for them to freeze.

SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES

ingredients:

Makes 18 to 24

• 2 quarts Concord grape juice

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 12 whole cloves

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 3 tablespoons whole allspice

directions:

Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.

CHERRY LIMEADE POPSICLES ingredients:

Makes 18 to 24

• 2 cups sugar

• 2 cups water

• 1 cup lime juice

• 2 cups tart cherry juice

directions:

In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat. Add the cherry juice and taste. Add additional sugar or water if needed. Let come to room temperature and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.

events

AUGUST 3RD

Heart of America Hot Dog Festival

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum | 3:00 PM

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is hosting a Hot Dog Festival. This is an exciting celebration of both the hot dog and baseball, our national pastime. The family-friendly event includes live music, mascots, games, autograph sessions, and trivia. You will also get admission to the museum. More information can be found at www.nlbm.com

AUGUST 8TH – 18TH

Missouri State Fair

Sedalia

Experience the excitement of the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Enjoy thrilling carnival rides, delicious fair food, live performances, livestock showcases, agricultural exhibits, and more. Combining tradition with unforgettable experiences, the Missouri State Fair promises cherished memories for all. For details and event schedules visit www.mostatefair.com

AUGUST 9TH

Movie in the Park

Rotary Park

Get ready to enjoy a movie night under the stars at Rotary Park. Bring your snacks, gather your family or friends, and join us as Blue Springs Parks & Recreation presents ‘The Super Mario Brothers Movie’ starting at dusk.

AUGUST 15TH

Third Thursday

Downtown Blue Springs | 5:00 PM

Explore the heart of Downtown Blue Springs during Third Thursday, where the historic district comes alive. Discover local flavors, unique vendors, vibrant artwork, and fun activities for everyone at this lively street festival.

AUGUST 24TH

Jim Kennedy’s Birthday Celebration

Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers | 10:00 AM

Everyone is invited to join Kennedy’s Jewelers for a special day to celebrate the 70th birthday of their founder, Jim Kennedy. Enjoy birthday treats and take advantage of special savings, with select items up to 70% off.

AUGUST 30TH – SEPTEMBER 2ND

SantaCaliGon Days Festival

Independence Square

Head out to The Independence Square for the annual celebration of the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails heritage. Enjoy live entertainment, mouthwatering foods, thrilling activities, and diverse vendors. Create lasting memories at this vibrant event! Visit www.santacaligon.com for event details and schedules.

Investing in and suppor ting our communities

Working together to make a difference in the lives of our friends, neighbors and the community. For more information, contact your Edward Jones Financial Advisor.