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Home & Design

Home Sweet Home

Home. So much meaning packed into that little four-letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

When I think of home, I think of a few different things. I think of the warm and welcoming home I grew up in with my family and the plethora of memories made during my childhood. I also think of the place that I call home today. My wife and I moved into our first home here in Blue Springs right after we got married. In just a few short years, we’ve turned our house into a home, filled with love, laughter, and new traditions. Last, and arguably most important, I think of our amazing community—the people and places that make this city feel like home.

We feel incredibly fortunate to share the stories of the businesses and individuals who shape this community. We hope that by offering a small glimpse into their lives and work, we help bring people together.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you feel encouraged and connected—to your city, your neighborhood, and most of all, your home.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home. AUSTIN BREWER, PUBLISHER

March 2025

PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Cheryl Leppert | cherylleppert@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary King, Katarina Brewer, Cheryl Leppert

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Megan Cason, Backyard by Design

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Focus + Films attended the Blue Springs Chamber Gala as a Business of the Year nominee. 2: Plaza Heights Christian Academy celebrated its Notfor-Profit of the Year nomination at the Chamber Gala. 3: Essential Eats Grazing showcased some of their delicious treats at Trinity Wellness’s open house. 4: Castaway Destinations meets with European River Cruise Partners in New York City. 5: The Floor Coverings International Blue Springs team at their annual convention in Cancun. 6: Carnes Family supporting the KC Chiefs at Yoga + Brew at East Forty Brewing. 7: Trinity Wellness 2025 Winter Women’s Yoga + Wellness Retreat.

CASTAWAY

PLAZA HEIGHTS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Meyer makes Music magical

MEYER MUSIC private music lessons impact far more than musical talent. The skills students gain by learning to play an instrument have a positive effect on school performance and last well into adulthood. No music store offers more music lessons than we do, and our vetted, qualified instructors work with students of all ability from beginning to advanced. Since you’re never too old to learn something new or improve your technique, our instructors are just as skilled at teaching mature students, as they are school-aged children. There’s never been a better time to make an investment in education and life-long learning. Go to our website to explore your opportunities!

PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS AVAILABLE FOR THESE INSTRUMENTS:

Piano

Violin

Viola

Cello

Clarinet

Flute

Saxophone

Trumpet

Trombone

Baritone

French Horn

Acoustic Guitar

Electric Guitar

Bass Guitar

Ukelele

Percussion

Keyboard Percussion

business monthly

ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Make an Impact in the Lives of Students

Plaza Heights Christian Academy invites the community to an evening of celebration and excitement. Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner, exciting raffles, and both an online and in-person auction. Proceeds from this year’s event will support technology and security upgrades, as well as new playground equipment for PHCA. The online auction begins on March 1st, with the in-person event taking place on March 28th. For more information and to donate please visit givebutter.com/c/2025BasketBonanza.

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Healthy, Delicious Meal Prep Options Now Available

Essential Eats Grazing, LLC has recently partnered with Elevation Fitness to offer meal prep services for anyone looking for healthy, fresh, and chef-prepared meals. They offer pick-up and delivery services in Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Lee’s Summit, and Independence. To order online, visit www.essentialeatsgrazing. com/online-ordering-meal-prep-menu

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Castaway Destinations Unveils The European Collection

Laura Legg, owner of Castaway Destinations, introduces The European Collection , a signature brand specializing in bespoke luxury vacations to Europe. From Italy and France to the UK and Greece, these tailored itineraries offer cultural immersion, unique experiences, and seamless travel planning. Designed for discerning travelers, The European Collection ensures effortless and extraordinary getaways, making every journey unforgettable. Learn more at www.castawaydestinations.com/theeuropeancollection.

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Photography by Plaza Heights Christian Academy

Photography by Essential Eats Grazing

Photography by Castaway Destinations

Limited Edition Very Cherry Spring Collection

This spring, Merle Norman Cosmetics in Blue Springs introduces the Very Cherry Collection , a vibrant, limited-edition line inspired by the season. Featuring bold reds, soft pinks, and fruity hues, it includes four Cherry Scented Lip Colors, a Lip Oil, and four Eye Shadow Sticks. Designed with high-quality formulas, this collection adds a playful pop of color to your beauty routine, keeping you glowing all season long!

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Fleming Floral Station Honored as Business Person of the Year

Fleming Floral Station has been recognized as the 2024 Pleasant Hill Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year. This prestigious award honors their dedication to exceptional customer service, creative floral designs, and deep commitment to the local community. Known for its passion and personalized touch, Fleming Floral Station has become a beloved business, bringing beauty to every occasion.

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Celebrating 59 Years of Music, Community, and Giving Back

Meyer Music, a beloved family-owned business, proudly celebrates 59 years of serving the community and inspiring musicians. Offering instruments, rentals, and lessons for all ages, they are committed to fostering a love for music. Through their Band of Angels program, they provide instruments to students in need, showcasing their strong dedication to the community. This milestone honors nearly six decades of enriching lives through music and giving back.

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Photography by Merle Norman Cosmetics

Photography by Fleming Floral Station

Photography by Meyer Music

Elevate Your Space

Bringing innovative flooring designs and expert guidance right to your doorstep to elevate your space

Flooring plays a vital role in transforming a house into a home, setting the tone, and enhancing both functionality and beauty. Floor Coverings International in Blue Springs is elevating the flooring experience with its unique mobile showroom and unwavering commitment to customer service. They have quickly become a standout choice for homeowners seeking high-quality flooring solutions.

For owner Scott King, the decision to bring Floor Coverings International to the local area was fueled by a desire for change and a passion for providing exceptional service. Although relatively new to the flooring industry, the team at Floor Coverings International brings a wealth of expertise. “We are well-versed and extensively trained,” Scott emphasized. “We recently attended Floor Coverings International’s annual convention, which was an incredible learning experience. We’re excited to apply that knowledge and provide top-quality service to Blue Springs and the surrounding communities. Our team works hard to ensure every project is completed to the highest standards.”

From their carefully curated selection of flooring options to their innovative in-home consultations, Floor Coverings International offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of hardwood, the durability of luxury vinyl plank, or the cozy comfort of carpet, their team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

TOP FLOORING TRENDS TAKING OVER HOMES

Here’s a look at some of the leading flooring trends making an impact.

ARTICLE BY KATARINA

Cozy Carpet Choices

“Our flexible scheduling with evening and weekend appointments, coupled with our mobile showroom, makes it easy for busy families to shop for flooring. We prioritize customer service, clear communication and satisfaction, from consultation to installation.”

Warm tweed and tonal hues are dominating the carpet scene, while shaggier styles are on the decline. Organic, touchable textures are trending, with bold patterns making a statement on area rugs and stairs, bringing fresh style and energy to any space.

Hardwood Revival

Brushed, wide planks with a low sheen are taking over, showcasing their natural beauty. With warmth and character at the forefront, these stunning hardwoods bring depth and style to any space, making oak and hickory the top choices for creating a timeless, welcoming interior.

Resilient Flooring Reimagined

Say goodbye to cool greys and hello to browns with cool undertones! The shift to mid-tone browns is gaining momentum, with longer, wider planks and subtle graining creating a sophisticated, natural look that’s perfect for a timeless interior.

Flooring Made Simple

Floor Coverings International offers a variety of flooring options to suit every need: Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is durable and water-resistant, ideal for families. Hardwood enhances beauty and long-lasting value. Carpet provides softness for bedrooms and living spaces. Tile is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms, and laminate offers an affordable, stylish alternative to hardwood or tile.

Interactive

Mobile Showroom

Floor Coverings International makes finding the perfect flooring seamless, with their mobile showroom, style quiz, and room visualizer. Scott and his team bring samples to your home and consider factors like lighting, paint color, and décor. “We ensure your flooring suits your space and lifestyle,” Scott shared. “With our down-to-the-penny quotes and personalized service, you’ll feel confident in your decision.”

Exceptional Customer Care

Adapting to the specific needs of the local community is a priority for Floor Coverings International. “We understand the preferences of homeowners in Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Lee’s Summit, and our surrounding communities,” Scott explained. “We focus on high-quality materials that match the needs of our local climate and individual lifestyles.

Floor Coverings International’s approach to combining expertise, innovation, and personalized service makes them a standout in the competitive world of home design. As they continue to grow and serve the Blue Springs community, they remain committed to providing a top-tier flooring experience that homeowners can trust.

Whether you’re updating a single room or embarking on a full home renovation, Floor Coverings International is ready to bring your vision to life—one beautiful floor at a time.

A special thank you to MajorLux Apartments for generously allowing us to use their space for part of this feature.

yourself PICTURE HERE

ARTICLE BY CHERYL LEPPERT

Spring is right around the corner, and our thoughts are turning longingly to sunshine, green grass, and cool blue water. Swim Things is right around the corner, too – located on 40 Highway in Blue Springs – and they make it their business to bring a little sunshine into your life.

For more than 50 years, this family-owned business has been helping area families create and maintain their personal paradise. Whether you’re a year-round swimmer, preparing to lounge in the sun somewhere warm, or anticipating opening -- or building -- your own pool, they are here to help.

Swim Things’ steady growth has made them one of the Kansas City area’s largest and finest inground swimming pool builders. They are ranked among the top locally and nationally for both residential and commercial pool design and construction. Their stunning designs grace the backyards of homes of all sizes, from Blue Springs to Liberty to Stillwell, Kansas.

YOUR BACKYARD OASIS AWAITS!

Owners Vince and Amy Davenport focus on bringing quality and innovation to their custom gunite or

vinyl-lined pool designs, to ensure that the finished product is uniquely tailored to their client’s needs. “We love to work with our customers to create a pool that fits their vision - from practical and easy-to-maintain to elegant outdoor spaces with a swim-up bar and attached hot tub,” explains Vince.

“In the early stages of planning, we work with you to make decisions about the way your swimming pool looks and how it operates. From design to construction to completion, our expert team will be there to help, every step of the way.”

Amy adds, “Not only do we construct the swimming pool, but we also provide ongoing support. We don’t just build it and walk away. Our team is dedicated to assisting you in understanding how to maintain and care for your pool.” If you take a moment to explore their website, you will witness the commitment to their customers. They have created a “Pool School” page that offers a wealth of informative articles covering various topics such as understanding your equipment, the process of opening your pool in the spring, maintaining water chemistry, and even troubleshooting your pump.

CONTINUED >

GOT THE WINTER BLUES?

Stop in for a visit. Walking into Swim Things is like stepping out of your car and into summer. Their showroom includes two indoor pools, hot tubs, swimwear and accessories, a wide selection of patio furniture, and so much more.

SWIMWEAR ALL YEAR

Whether you’re planning a trip or simply getting ready for summer, their store offers a vast selection of more than 20,000 swimsuits all year long - the largest selection in Kansas City! This one-stop-shop for all things swimming includes 40 brands of competitive and fashionable swimwear for women, men, and children, for every figure, plus

• Cover-ups and sarongs

• Sandals and sunglasses

• Swim team apparel and goggles, caps, and training gear

PATIO FURNITURE, SERVICE & SUPPLIES

You can still live the good life with Swim Things, even if you don’t own one of their pools. They cater to hundreds of customers in the metro area, offering reliable maintenance and service for their pools. Additionally, Swim Things is renowned for providing high-quality and durable pool products. No matter the season, Swim Things is your go-to destination for all your pool-related needs, and is THE year-round source for

• Fully-customizable Bullfrog Spas

• Patio furniture

• Pool covers

• Floats, inflatable loungers, and ledge loungers

• Parts, equipment, and supplies

Why not brighten your day, and visit Swim Things Monday - Saturday at 3010 SW US Highway 40, in Blue Springs, MO. Or give them a call at 816-2242600, find them on Facebook, or Instagram, or view their extensive website at www.swimthings.com

BLOOM INTO COLOR THIS SPRING!

Introducing our VeryCherrySpringCollection! Spring is light-hearted and playful with creamy metallic eyes, smoothing lip color and Juicy glass-shine lips! These vibrant reds, soft pinks, and fresh fruity hues come together to brighten your beauty routine!

Get the cherry on top of your beauty routine today!

Add a splash of color to your spring style and experience the sweetness of spring with our NEW GIFT WITH PURCHASE!

(Some Exclusions Apply. While Supplies Last.)

MERLENORMANSTUDIO.COM/MO 627 NW MOCK AVE, SUITE C, BLUE SPRINGS, MO 64014 B MERLEGIRLBSMO

A father-son legacy of craftsmanship, commitment, and community

A Roofing Legacy Built to Last

ARTICLE BY MARY KING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON

For nearly 50 years, the West family has been in the business of keeping homes covered—literally. Bill West founded his roofing company, Bill West Roofing, with a simple goal: to provide for his family. What started as a necessity turned into a lifelong passion, one that now spans generations. Today, Bill’s son, Aaron, is at the helm alongside him, ensuring the company continues to thrive.

As the business approaches its 50th anniversary, Bill and Aaron reflect on their journey as a father-son team, the evolution of the roofing industry, and what it means to serve their community for half a century.

FROM A FAMILY NEED TO A FAMILY BUSINESS

The job market in Bill West’s previous career wasn’t promising, so he pivoted to something he knew would provide stability for his family. What he didn’t know then was that his son Aaron would one day step in to carry the torch.

Aaron’s initiation into the roofing world began at the age of six—though not exactly by choice. “Dad tied me off to three bundles of shingles before all the safety measures were in place,” Aaron recalls with a laugh. “He made the rope short enough that I couldn’t get to any edge of the roof and put me to work. That lasted until Mom came home and sent me back down.”

Over the years, Aaron worked through high school and into college, eventually realizing that roofing—and the business side of it—was where his future lay. “I thought I wanted to be a doctor,” Aaron says. “But after a knee surgery ended my football career, I found myself drawn back to the family business.”

While the basics of installing a roof have not changed much, the Wests agree that the business has evolved dramatically. “The technology is where the biggest changes have happened,” Bill says. “When I started, we were measuring roofs by hand and writing everything out. Now, Aaron tracks all our calls, profit margins, material costs, and scheduling with software.”

“We work in our community, for our community. Our customers aren’t just onetime jobs; they’re referrals from neighbors, repeat clients, even the children of homeowners we worked for decades ago.”

Running a family business isn’t always easy. “The hardest part is balancing the family dynamic with the business,” Aaron says. “I have to remember—he’s still my dad, and I’m still his son. Sometimes, you have to take a step back before you say something stupid.”

Despite the challenges, both agree that the benefits outweigh them. “As kids get older, they live their own lives,” Bill says. “But working together has kept us close. Not many people get to spend this much time with their family.”

Aaron, who has spent years modernizing operations, admits that bringing his dad into the digital age hasn’t been easy. “I’ve been dragging him into the 21st century kicking and screaming,” he jokes. “But it’s made us more efficient. Instead of spending hours in a truck going from one site to the next, we can track jobs remotely and be in 10 places at once.”

What has stayed the same, though, is their commitment to quality and integrity. “We’ve never been storm chasers,” Aaron explains. “We work in our community, for our community. Our customers aren’t just one-time jobs; they’re referrals from neighbors, repeat clients, even the children of homeowners we worked for decades ago.”

Even outside of work, business still finds a way into their conversations. “We joke that it’s 99% work, 1% personal,” Aaron admits. “But that’s just how it is when you run your own company.”

As the company approaches its 50th anniversary, the Wests are proud of what they’ve built—but don’t expect a big celebration. “It’s a great milestone,” Aaron says, “but neither of us are the type to toot our own horn.”

Instead, their focus remains on continuing the family legacy. “We’ve built a business that people trust,” Bill says. “And that’s what matters.”

For the Wests, roofing isn’t just about putting shingles on homes—it’s about providing security, creating relationships, and most of all, keeping family at the center of everything they do.

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

several

packages, Focus + Films

the special moments of your day to create a cinematic wedding video you’ll love forever. Sneak peek reels are included with each wedding package. Mention this ad to receive a 10% discount.

Friday, April 26, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

Adams Pointe Conference Center

~Purchase your tickets today for an evening of fun with

and incredible auction items up for bid!

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https://www.bluespringsrotary.org

bluespringsrotary@gmail.com

TRANSFORMING GARAGE DOORS

Expert service and cutting-edge products for garage doors that enhance both function and design

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Garage doors consistently rank among the top home improvements for return on investment, with curb appeal being a major factor. As one of the first things guests and homeowners notice, a well-designed garage door can set the tone for the entire home.

Andrew Powell, owner of State Line Door & Lift, has spent nearly two decades transforming the garage door industry. With a passion for innovative solutions and high-quality products, he has built a company that enhances homes while setting a new standard for garage door repair, maintenance, and design in the Kansas City area.

A VISION FOR BETTER SOLUTIONS

Andrew founded State Line Door & Lift to offer more than the standard service. “Many companies at the time only did the bare minimum when it came to repairs and were hesitant to offer alternative products,” Andrew explains. “I wanted to change that by providing homeowners with high-quality options and solutions tailored to their needs.”

One of the company’s standout offerings is the Sommer garage door opener, a top-tier German-engineered product that addresses many common homeowner complaints. As the only authorized dealer in Kansas City, State Line Door & Lift provides exclusive, cutting-edge technology to local homeowners. Additionally, through partnerships with eight different manufacturers, they ensure a variety of styles, materials, and designs to suit every home’s aesthetic.

DESIGN TRENDS THAT MAKE AN IMPACT

Current trends emphasize bold choices that enhance a home’s exterior. “Wood tones—particularly walnut and other rich grains—have become increasingly popular, adding warmth and sophistication,” Andrew shared. “Black doors have also surged in demand, surpassing traditional white doors.”

Looking ahead, Andrew notes that 2025 is seeing a rise in creative customization. “Homeowners are opting for custom colors and fullview glass doors for a sleek, contemporary look. Plank doors, featuring horizontal wood plank designs, are another emerging favorite due to their unique aesthetic and growing affordability.”

KEEPING YOUR GARAGE DOOR IN TOP SHAPE

Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your garage door and ensuring smooth operation. “Manufacturers void warranties if maintenance isn’t performed twice a year,” Andrew warns.

CONTINUED >

Semi-annual inspections help prevent costly repairs by catching minor issues early. For DIY maintenance, homeowners should lubricate moving parts like rollers, hinges, pulleys, and springs twice a year.

Andrew also advises homeowners to take proactive steps to preserve their garage doors, such as power washing in the spring and rinsing off road salt after snowstorms to prevent corrosion. A fresh coat of paint—whether updating the color or refreshing the existing one—can also boost curb appeal.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

State Line Door & Lift isn’t just about selling garage doors—it’s about creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for homeowners. Recognized as a Top 10 Garage Door Company in the country by the International Door Association for two consecutive years, Andrew and his team continue to set the bar high. “This industry is evolving,” he shares. “We’re just getting started with bringing the latest innovations to our community.”

For homeowners looking to make a lasting impression and improve the functionality of their garage doors, State Line Door & Lift offers expertise, cutting-edge products, and a commitment to quality service that truly sets them apart.

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Spring Into Action

EXPERT CLEANING TIPS FROM TRISHA HOMFELD OF THE SHAUN ASHLEY TEAM

Lint-Free Cleaning

Use a surgical towel (shop towel) for cleaning, since it produces minimal lint. This ensures a streak-free finish on surfaces like glass, countertops, and appliances, leaving everything spotless without residue or fibers.

Stainless Steel Shine

Buff a thin layer of wax over stainless steel appliances to repel water spots and fingerprints. This is an oldie, but is an effective trick that keeps surfaces looking polished and reduces the need for constant wiping.

Rust Removal Hack

Banish rust naturally by rubbing a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda onto affected areas. This method is especially effective for knives, restoring their shine without harsh chemicals.

Effortless Wall & Baseboard Cleaning

A microfiber mop is a game-changer for cleaning walls and baseboards. It easily removes dust, dirt, and grime without bending or scrubbing, making deep cleaning quicker and more efficient.

Streak-Free Mirrors

Turn off the lights before cleaning mirrors to avoid heat drying the cleaner too quickly. This simple trick helps prevent streaks, leaving you with a crystal-clear reflection every time.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 17TH

Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Westport District | 11:00 AM

With one of the richest Irish heritages in the country, Kansas City proudly celebrates the Irish Wit & Wisdom St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This vibrant, family-friendly celebration is free to attend and showcases over 100 floats and a variety of vendors. The parade begins at Linwood & Broadway and ends at 43rd Street & Broadway. For more details, visit www.kcirishparade.com

MARCH 20TH – 23RD

Annie Jr.

Blue Springs South Performing Arts Center

Blue Springs City Theatre proudly presents Annie Jr., its first Penguin Project production. This heartwarming musical features young artists with disabilities, supported by peer mentors, performing beloved songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life.” A celebration of inclusion and creativity for all ages, Annie Jr. promises an unforgettable experience. Get your tickets at givebutter.com/annie-jr

MARCH 20TH – 23RD

Disney on Ice: Let’s Dance

T-Mobile Center

Join Mickey and friends for a high-energy DJ dance party! Join the fun as they remix your favorite Disney songs into a vibrant and colorful experience. Immerse yourself in the magic with appearances from beloved characters from Wish, Frozen 2, The Little Mermaid, Moana, and The Lion King. Tickets are available at www.disneyonice.com/lets-dance

MARCH 29TH

Brew Springs Homebrew Festival

Main Street, Downtown Blue Springs | 1:00 PM

Downtown Blue Springs Alive is thrilled to host the 1st Annual Brew Springs! Sample craft beers from 30 local homebrewers enjoy food trucks, live music, and a People’s Choice Award. Early bird tickets are $30; $35 at the gate. Tickets include unlimited beer tastings and access to food trucks and entertainment. Get tickets and more info at www.downtownbluesprings.com/events

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.