Blue Springs, MO December 2024 by City Lifestyle

Tis’ the Season

As the holiday season unfolds, we’re excited to celebrate the magic of this time of year and share what our city has to offer in spreading joy and holiday cheer. We often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical when we were growing up. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child. One of my most memorable family traditions during the holidays involved having my Grandma stay at our house on Christmas Eve. She would come over in the afternoon to spend time with us, then we would eat together as a family before calling it a night in order for Santa to make his rounds. When we woke at the crack of dawn, she was right there with us to open gifts and share in the joy that is Christmas morning. Holiday traditions are special and truly are what makes this season so magical.

In this issue, we not only offer thoughtful gift ideas but also highlight the ways some of our community members give back. While the season is filled with beauty and joy for many, it can also be a difficult and lonely time for others. In the spirit of the season, let’s remember to extend kindness and support to those in our community who may need it most—whether they are facing hardship or simply feeling alone. My hope for you this season is that you experience peace, love, and connection and that we all take the opportunity to care for one another with grace and empathy.

Thank you for making Blue Springs the wonderful place it is. I am so grateful that this community is my home for the holidays. Wishing you all a joyful and blessed holiday season, filled with love, laughter, and the spirit of giving and kindness.

AUSTIN BREWER, PUBLISHER @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cheryl Leppert, Katarina Brewer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Amanda Krier

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

Plaza

Authorized Dealer

city scene

1: An unforgettable day of fun at All In Physical Therapy’s 2nd Annual Cornhole Tournament! 2: Elevation Fitness celebrated the grand opening of its new location. 3: Getting in the holiday spirit at Fleming Floral Station. 4: Strutting for a cause at the Dazzling Divas fashion show! 5: Spooktacular Trunk-or-Treat Fun on Main Street! 6: PHCA Middle School cast of “The American Revolution in 40 Minutes or Less” 7: Check out these dazzling yogis from the GLOW Yoga Party Night at Trinity Wellness.

MEYER FUNERAL CHAPEL

PLAZA HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN ACADEMCY

business monthly

Focus Plus Films Creates Award-Winning Video

Dion and Rachel Laws of Focus Plus Films were selected to produce the Kansas Citian of the Year Award video for the KC Chamber of Commerce. The project featured interviews with Klassie Alcine from KC Common Good and Tim Cowden, President and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. The final video was presented at the KC Chamber of Commerce event in November 2024.

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Monster Tree Service Celebrates Three Years of Excellence

Monster Tree Service of Lee’s Summit is proud to announce that it has won the prestigious Platinum Award (#1) in the 2024 CommunityVotes Lee’s Summit for the third consecutive year. This remarkable achievement underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to providing top-quality tree care services. The award reflects the trust and loyalty of residents who continue to choose Monster Tree Service for their expert tree trimming, removal, and maintenance needs.

A Minor Adjustment’s Milestone Anniversary

A Minor Adjustment is excited to celebrate 20 years of providing specialized care in rehabilitation and acupuncture this month! Focused on the back, neck, and extremities, Dr. Minor and his team offer chiropractic adjustments, sports injury treatments, and wellness programs, including weight loss, all designed to help patients achieve total body health. Known for his personalized approach, Dr. Minor is committed to addressing the root causes of pain to promote long-term wellness.

Photography by A Minor Adjustment

Photography by Monster Tree Service

Photography by Focus Plus Films

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

PLAZA HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY: SHAPING YOUNG MINDS AND HEARTS TO BECOME LEADERS OF TOMORROW.

Tucked away in southwest Blue Springs, Plaza Heights Christian Academy has been quietly educating thousands of children from across the metro area for 25 years. What started in 1999 with 86 students attending preschool through 6th grade, has now grown into a thriving K-12 educational facility with an annual enrollment of 340 students.

ARTICLE BY CHERYL LEPPERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY PLAZA HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Today, the PHCA Lions are ready to roar in celebration. Their theme for the next year is Rooted in Faith, Reaching for the Future: 25 Years of the Lions Legacy. “We want to raise awareness in the community about our school as an excellent and accessible option for a strong Biblebased Christian education,” says Dr. Marc Snow, Head of School.

“This spiritual emphasis sets us apart from other educational options. We have been amazed and blessed by how many families have wanted, and continue to desire, to have their children grow up in this type of environment.”

Dr. Snow, with 33 years of experience in education, also has a doctorate in Educational Leadership. His 30 years in the public school sector, including serving for six years as Superintendent of the Grain Valley School District, provide him with a deep understanding of the educational needs for children at all grade levels. “If there’s something our students want to pursue in their education, we will find a way to get that for them,” he added.

THRIVING, THROUGH PURPOSE

Though small, the school is dual-accredited, has a staff of fully certified

“OUR CURRICULUM

IS INFUSED WITH BIBLICAL TRUTH

AND HELPS STUDENTS LEARN TO PAIR THEIR BELIEFS.”

teachers, and provides a complete education for grades K-12, in addition to a bustling preschool program. Through partnering with scholarship and fund-raising organizations, PHCA strives to keep private education accessible to as many families as possible.

Students also have opportunities to expand their education, thanks to cooperative arrangements Plaza has forged with other educational programs and institutions, such as the Missouri A+ Scholarship Program, the Fort Osage Career and Technology Center, and Summit Tech. They can take dual credit

courses through a partnership with Evangel University.

Their state and Christian education accreditations ensure that a PHCA diploma carries the same value and weight as any Missouri educational institution. But always, at its core, secondary Principal Kristen Cooper emphasizes, “Our curriculum is infused with Biblical truth and helps students learn to pair their beliefs--rooted in scripture--with critical thinking. We take our Christian ministry and teaching very seriously. It’s extremely important to us to live out Biblically-based values in all that we do,

so students don’t just hear it, but also see adults living it daily.”

25 YEARS OF THE LION’S LEGACY

Plaza administrators explain that their 25th anniversary is a celebration of all of this. They are grateful to have served thousands of students and are looking forward to what the future holds. They truly believe being rooted in their faith and being committed to constantly improving, growing, and staying relevant to the needs of families is what has allowed PHCA to flourish.

Families and students reap the benefits of a school with a legacy of longevity that is building towards even greater things in the years to come. This legacy doesn’t just include founders, teachers, and staff, but also church and community partners. Church partners pray for the students, staff, and families in the school and they provide support as volunteers, speakers for chapel, and assistance with many projects. Community partners - businesses and individualscontribute their time and/or finances to help further the school’s work.

If you want to learn more and schedule a tour, or would like to become a community partner, call 816-228-0670, ext. 306, or visit www.plazaheightschristianacademy.org

CUSTOM MADE VIDEO & FILMS THAT FIT YOUR VISION

Carefully

ARTICLE BY KENNEDY’S CUSTOM JEWELERS |

Holiday Gift Guide

HANDPICKED JEWELRY FROM KENNEDY’S CUSTOM JEWELERS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers has the perfect gifts to spread joy this holiday season. From elegant necklaces and sparkling earrings to luxury timepieces, our selection caters to a variety of tastes and styles. Whether you’re seeking something classic for everyday wear or a bold piece to make a statement at holiday gatherings, you’re sure to find the ideal match here. Stop by Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers this holiday season, or visit us online at www.kennedysjewelers.com to discover the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.

Wide Selection

+816-744-6334

THE PLACES YOU WILL GO ON YOUR PEDEGO!

Pedego Blue Springs is a locally-owned store where you’ll be treated like family. As the region’s foremost electric bike experts, we put our hearts into helping you find the perfect electric bike and get the most out of it for many years to come. pedegoelectricbikes.com/blue-springs 816.815.0700

Empowering Through Service

Christian Brothers Automotive providing essential repairs for single mothers in our community

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA KRIER

With over a decade of experience in the automotive industry, Tim Porter has forged a path of service and leadership that began in 1997 at Auto Parts. Since then, he has continually advanced his career, joining Christian Brothers Automotive in 2013, where he continues to make a lasting impact.

Like many of us, Tim’s path to a fulfilling career has been shaped by both personal passions and influential mentors. “My journey into the automotive world began with a love for problem-solving and a desire to help others. These values align perfectly with our mission at Christian Brothers Automotive,” Tim shares. His commitment to helping others extends beyond his own journey; it’s something he actively brings to life through his work, especially during National Service Day.

Every October, Christian Brothers Automotive locations nationwide take part in National Service Day, a day dedicated to giving back to the communities they serve. This tradition was initiated by founder Mark Carr in 2005, with a focus on supporting single mothers, an underserved group that often faces unique challenges in the automotive industry. Mark recognized the unkind treatment they often received and wanted to create a more supportive environment for them. This legacy of compassion and service continues to drive the Christian Brothers Automotive mission today.

National Service Day is a company-wide effort: technicians donate their time and expertise, vendors contribute parts, and local businesses provide food and drinks for both volunteers and the families being supported. “This year, we have some new faces on our team, bringing fresh energy and perspectives. We’re also excited to welcome Boy Scout Troop 310 back. Watching these young scouts grow and take on responsibilities, like vacuuming cars and cleaning windows, adds an extra layer of fulfillment to the day,” Tim explained.

This year, Tim and his team at Christian Brothers Automotive Independence aimed to make an even bigger impact than before. “When we begin planning and organizing for National Service Day, we partner with local nonprofits, and businesses, and use social media to gather nominations for families in need,” says Tim. “This collaborative approach ensures our efforts are focused where we can make the most significant impact.”

In 2024, Christian Brothers Automotive Independence donated over $3,500 in services. Each car that came in for National Service Day received an oil change, a new air filter, and a top-off of all fluids. The mechanics also performed a full safety check, ensuring each vehicle was roadworthy. If any safety concerns were identified, they made the necessary repairs at no cost to the families.

“My favorite part of National Service Day is the camaraderie that develops as we serve together, witnessing the joy and brotherhood that comes from making a difference in others’ lives.”

Looking ahead, Tim hopes National Service Day will continue to provide a safe and supportive environment for mothers and others in need for many years to come. “I envision a day where moms can relax, knowing their cars are being cared for, while their kids enjoy fun activities in a safe space,” Tim says. “At Christian Brothers Automotive, service is about more than just fixing cars; it’s about building lasting connections, creating a sense of community, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of the people we serve.”

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY

Evergreen Magic

How to bring holiday cheer with fresh greenery

As the holiday season draws near, the right greenery can transform your home into a festive haven. From classic evergreens to vibrant seasonal foliage, the best choices enhance your décor and evoke the season’s warmth and joy. Amie Fleming from Fleming Floral Station, shares her expert insights on the greenery options that can elevate your holiday displays. Whether you’re decorating indoors or outdoors, these choices will create an inviting atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holidays.

NOBLE FIR

This greenery is a popular choice for the holidays, known for its crisp fragrance and lush blue-green needles. The noble fir is also prized for its sturdy branches and elegant appearance, making it ideal for both holiday decorations and landscaping. It’s especially great for wreaths and garlands, adding to the festive holiday cheer.

HOLLY

A timeless symbol of the holiday season, holly is known for its vibrant red berries and glossy green leaves. While beautiful, it’s important to note that the berries are toxic and should not be consumed. Including holly branches adds a pop of color to your holiday décor, and their versatility makes them perfect for both indoor and outdoor displays. Whether draped across a mantel, incorporated into table settings, or used as a decorative accent in arrangements, holly brings a classic seasonal charm.

CEDAR

Already have some seasonal greenery? Adding cedar will enhance your arrangement with extra texture. Its rich dark green foliage, soft texture, and woodsy fragrance create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Try incorporating cedar into wreaths or as a festive backdrop. Its durability also makes it perfect for outdoor decorations, withstanding the elements while maintaining its beauty throughout the season.

BOXWOOD

If you want to add an elegant touch to your holiday décor, boxwood is a perfect choice. Its rich, forest-green leaves and ability to be shaped allow you to create unique arrangements. Boxwood is a favorite for creating wreaths and centerpieces, but it can be used to frame doorways, line mantels, or serve as a backdrop for candles and ornaments.

Looking for beautiful arrangements to brighten your holiday season? Be sure to visit Fleming Floral Station to infuse your home with festive spirit.

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org

CONFECTION

Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience

As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.

OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA

Ingredients

• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa

• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar

• 2 cups milk

• 2 cups half and half

• 1 pinch salt

• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD

Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.

Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER

SPARKLE & SHINE!

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

EVERY DAY IN DECEMBER Holiday Reflections

Union Station | 10:00 AM

The Holiday Reflections Village is back at Union Station! Experience the Grand Plaza transformed into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, decorated trees, and charming creatures. This year, explore Santa’s secret wonderland featuring a 4D Magical Sleigh Ride with HD virtual reality. Join “D.A.S.H.” for an exciting adventure around the globe and into space! Tickets are available at www.unionstation.org/event/holiday-reflections/

WEEKENDS AND SELECT WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS IN DECEMBER

The Nutcracker - Kansas City Ballet

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Experience the timeless magic of The Nutcracker—a cherished holiday tradition that fills the Christmas season with childlike wonder through enchanting dance and beloved music. Join the Kansas City Ballet for this annual celebration, with performances every weekend in December, along with select Wednesdays and Thursdays leading up to Christmas Eve. Visit www.kcballet.org/events/the-nutcracker/ to get your tickets.

FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS, AND SUNDAYS IN DECEMBER Hallmark Christmas Experience

Crown Center Square

Experience the first-ever Hallmark Christmas Experience at Crown Center in Kansas City. This immersive event brings to life the enchanting atmosphere of a Hallmark movie town square. Enhance your visit with limited ticketed events for exclusive access to Hallmark stars and artists. Bring your family and friends to celebrate the holiday spirit! More details are available online at www.experiencehallmarkchristmas.com.

DECEMBER 5TH

Ladies Night at Kennedy’s Jewelers

Kennedy’s Jewelers | 5:00 PM

Gather your friends for fun, pampering, and sparkling jewelry at Kennedy’s Jewelers Ladies Night on Thursday, December 5th. Indulge in a delightful evening filled with food and beverages, relaxing massages, and rejuvenating hair services. Treat yourself to a soothing paraffin hand wax and take part in exciting giveaways throughout the night. Plus, every guest will receive a fabulous goody bag!

DECEMBER 6TH

Living Windows

Independence Square | 4:00 PM

Don’t miss the Living Windows, where merchant windows in the historic downtown Independence Square are transformed with festive holiday scenes. Stroll through the delightful outdoor Christmas Market, where you can discover unique gifts and savor delicious treats from local vendors. This evening is guaranteed to bring a touch of magic to your holiday celebration. Visit www.indepsquare.com/events/living-windows/ for more details.

DECEMBER 7TH

Christmas on Main

Downtown Blue Springs | 1:00 PM

Join us for a festive holiday celebration in the heart of downtown Blue Springs! Explore a variety of vendors at multiple locations along Main Street, and enjoy an enchanting evening that will culminate in the magical lighting of downtown. Plus, we’ve heard a special green guest might make an appearance. Visit www.downtownbluesprings.com for more information.

Meyer makes Music memories

AT MEYER MUSIC, buying the perfect grand piano for your home and playing enjoyment is a matter of personal style and preference. Few musical instruments are as impressive as a grand piano, whether it’s a preowned 6´ baby grand or a new 9´ concert hall grand piano. And, no one makes owning or renting a piano easier or more affordable. If you’re a master pianist, you’ll appreciate our staff’s eye and passion for filling our showroom with pianos that embody quality and solid craftsmanship. If you’re a beginner or have a novice player, you can trust our experts to recommend a piano that fits your style, space and budget. It’s a great time of year to stop, shop and play!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

The Naughty List

INGREDIENTS

• Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz

• Laird’s Applejack 1oz

• El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz

• El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes

• Cranberry Juice 2oz.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.

2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.

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.