Blue Springs, MO January 2026 by City Lifestyle

The Health & Wellness Issue JA N UA RY 2 02 6

LET’S

Ring In

THE NEW YEAR TURN YOUR OLD JEWELRY INTO SOMETHING NEW!

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Stepping Into Wellness January always feels like a quiet reset. The holidays wind down, routines return, and we start thinking about how we want to head into a new year. Some people jump in with big goals and big energy. Others ease in slowly, still shaking off the holiday rush. Either way, this season gives us a chance to reflect on what truly matters and how we want to feel moving forward. Not in a “new year, new you” kind of way, but in a genuine, supportive way— through the businesses and individuals who help us feel stronger, calmer, and more connected to ourselves. This month, we’re sharing stories of local people and businesses that are making wellness feel more approachable. At a personal training gym, it’s about showing up, doing the work, and building confidence with the support of a community cheering you on. A local sauna studio shares how infrared sessions can help your body recover and promote relaxation. We also spoke with a doctor who’s bringing a personal touch back to healthcare—no rushing, just real attention to each patient. And a physical therapist who’s helping people move better, recover from injuries, and get back to the activities they love, with individualized plans that actually work. Each story is different, but together they share the same message: wellness doesn’t have to be complicated or perfect. Sometimes it’s as simple as finding the right support, trying something new, or taking small, consistent steps that are manageable and meaningful. This January, take a moment for yourself, focus on what works for you, and enjoy the process of feeling your best.

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Austin Brewer | austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Katarina Brewer | katarina.brewer@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Tiffany Obermeyer | tiffany.obermeyer@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Cheryl Leppert | cheryl.leppert@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katarina Brewer, Mary King C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Krier Photo, Megan Cason - Case Studios

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

K ATA R I N A B R E W E R , E D I T O R @BLUESPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Blue Springs City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Blue Springs area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Blue Springs City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

12 20

18 Featured

12 18 20 26 6

Elevate Your Fitness Journey

Get strong and lean through sustainable training and nutrition

26 On the Cover

Departments

Relax. Detox. Rejuvenate. Step into the soothing warmth of infrared wellness.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

How To

Expert Help HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Events

The Power of Infrared

Discover the benefits, uses, and wellness impact of infrared therapy

The All In Difference

Inside the one-on-one approach driving All In Physical Therapy’s growth

The Heart of Health Care

Keys Health Direct Primary Care builds trust, time and transparency into every patient relationship

Photography: Megan Cason Case Studios

LIFE + CULTURE

Blue Springs

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

THE PAPERBACK PLAYHOUSE DOG TRAINING ELITE KC

STOCK EVENT RENTAL EMMA GOAD

5 CASTAWAY DESTINATIONS DOWNTOWN BLUE SPRINGS

ONCE UPON A SMILE

1: Stock Event Rental serving delicious mini pancakes at Queen Bee Boutiques. 2: DIY with Dad gets creative at The Paperback Playhouse with toolbelt painting and construction play. 3: Castaway Destinations helped plan Emma Mayfield’s unforgettable senior trip to Cinque Terre, Italy. 4: Dog Training Elite KC hosting group class at Lowenstein Park in Lee’s Summit. 5: A magical moment with Santa at Independence Square’s Living Windows event. 6: Once Upon A Smile staff with donations collected for their Harvesters Food Drive. 7: Downtown Blue Springs sparkled with holiday cheer at Christmas on Main & Holiday Night Market!

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Understanding the Winter Blues

Beyond funeral directors, we’re your personal concierge for life’s most meaningful moments

As January arrives, the holidays fade but the winter blues linger. For many, this is more than fatigue—it’s Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to reduced sunlight, with symptoms like low mood, fatigue, oversleeping, and carb cravings. Light therapy can help reset the body’s internal clock and boost energy. Keys Health Direct Primary Care in Blue Springs emphasizes lifestyle-based approaches like light therapy, exercise, and nutrition, using medication only when necessary. Photography by Krier Photo

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E l eva te Yo u r F i t n e s s Jo u r n ey GET STRONG AND LEAN THROUGH SUSTAINABLE TRAINING AND NUTRITION

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRIER PHOTO

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

As the new year begins, many people look for ways to feel healthier, stronger, and more energized. At Elevation Fitness in Blue Springs, owner Amanda Clark believes the path to long-term wellness doesn’t come from punishing workouts or restrictive diets—it comes from strength, nourishment, and consistency built over time. Amanda has spent more than 20 years in the fitness industry, and throughout that time, she noticed the same problems repeated across gyms: poorly planned training sessions, programs obsessed with scale weight, and a lack of true accountability. “I never saw a results-driven program,” Amanda said. “So I built Elevation Fitness—a private personal training studio dedicated to helping high-performers gain the strength, energy, and resilience to thrive in life. Our approach goes beyond workouts to create lasting change, combining strength training with nutrition guidance and accountability to support clients in every area of their lives and set them up for long-term success.” But beyond the workouts, when you walk into Elevation Fitness, the studio immediately feels welcoming and encouraging. Clients build confidence alongside their physical strength, and the environment feels less like a gym and more like a place to grow.

REDEFINING WELLNESS

For Amanda and the team at Elevation Fitness, wellness goes far beyond a number on the scale. “To us, wellness means great levels of energy, optimal movement, strength, internal health, and a healthy mentality,” she explains. That philosophy guides every aspect of their coaching—from teaching proper form and safely progressing clients in strength training, to providing nutrition guidance that supports long-term health.

EVERYDAY STRENGTH

Unlike many fitness programs that rely on high-impact classes or endless cardio, Elevation Fitness centers its approach around strength training.

“Unless you’re training for a specific sport, you don’t need high-intensity workouts,” Amanda says. “Too much intensity can lead to injury and burnout. Strength training boosts your metabolism, protects bone health, improves confidence, and makes everyday life easier—from carrying groceries to climbing stairs, to keeping up with kids or grandkids.”

FUELING YOUR BODY—NOT RESTRICTING IT

Nutrition is another area where Elevation Fitness challenges common misconceptions. Many people assume cutting calories or carbs is necessary to see results, but Amanda says the opposite is true. Rather than cutting calories or eliminating food groups, clients learn to fuel their bodies, build balanced meals, and eat consistently throughout the day. “Instead of taking foods away, we focus on high-quality foods you can add in—more protein, more fruit, more whole foods—not less,” Amanda says. “Many of our most successful clients often end up eating more, and notice better energy, fewer cravings, and greater strength as a result.”

THE POWER OF ACCOUNTABILITY

A major part of Elevation Fitness’ success comes from its built-in accountability system. Every client receives weekly check-ins, personalized nutrition guidance, session tracking, habit tracking, and regular Metric Assessments to measure progress beyond the scale. “Most people know what to do,” Amanda says. “They just need someone walking with them, checking in, and helping them follow through. Our structured, supportive approach ensures clients never feel alone—and always know the next step.” One client, Brandie Ciocca, joined Elevation Fitness at age 40 after years of sitting long hours as a remote employee. “I was dealing with chronic pain, migraines, and even vascular issues in my feet from inactivity.” Brandie says. “Within two weeks of starting, my symptoms began to improve. I got stronger, experienced fewer CONTINUED >

“Lasting results come from choosing daily challenges you can commit to. Those small, steady habits become the foundation for strength, confidence, and long-term health.” JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B LU E S P R I N G S M O

migraines, and my confidence grew as I stayed consistent with my workouts and nutrition. I’m most proud that I showed up for myself—and my newfound muscles are pretty cool, too. My future feels so much brighter than it did before.”

A COMMUNITY THAT LIFTS TOGETHER

Perhaps the most powerful part of Elevation Fitness is its community. “Our community is everything,” Amanda shared. Semi-private sessions create a team-like atmosphere where clients encourage one another, celebrate progress, and feel genuinely supported. “There’s an entire Elevation vibe here. No one does this alone, and that’s a huge part of our clients’ success.”

STARTING STRONG IN THE NEW YEAR AND BEYOND

As January brings a wave of new fitness resolutions, Amanda encourages people to set goals based on reality, not motivation. “Motivation is temporary. Systems and habits are what carry you through,” she says. “Start with doable routines: two to three strength sessions a week, daily walks, prioritizing protein, drinking enough water, getting consistent sleep, and tracking something—anything. Begin with habits you can sustain for life. When motivation is high, that’s the time to add more.” As Elevation Fitness continues to empower people to build sustainable health, Amanda’s mission remains clear: to help others create the strength, habits, and confidence that will carry them through every season of life. “Your future self will thank you,” she says. “Start now. Start small. Ask for help. Educate yourself. And lift.”

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

L E A R N M O R E : Looking to build strength, confidence, and long-lasting wellness? At Elevation Fitness, Amanda Clark and her team combine strength training, nutrition guidance, and accountability to help clients of all ages feel their best. Book a free discovery call today. 1412 S HW Y 7, SUITE E , BLUE SPRINGS, MO 64014 ( 8 1 6 ) 2 8 1 - 1 3 4 8 | E L E VAT I O N F I T N E S S .C O M

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B LU E S P R I N G S M O

Discover the benefits, uses, and wellness impact of infrared therapy

THE POWER OF INFRARED

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON - CASE STUDIOS Infrared saunas are quickly becoming a popular wellness tool for anyone looking to relax, recover, and support overall health. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air, infrared technology warms the body directly—creating a gentler, more comfortable experience that many people find both soothing and deeply therapeutic. At TRU Elements Sauna Studio in Blue Springs, owners Patty and Brandon Warren offer infrared saunas alongside cold plunges and red-light therapy, helping clients experience the benefits for themselves.

WHAT MAKES INFRARED SAUNAS UNIQUE, AND WHO CAN BENEFIT?

Infrared saunas heat your body directly at a gentler 120–140°F, while traditional saunas heat the air to 170–200°F. This deeper heat penetrates muscles and tissues, making infrared saunas effective for pain relief, inflammation reduction, and easing muscle tension. Sessions can be longer without the extreme heat stress of traditional saunas, allowing for therapeutic relaxation. Beyond physical restoration, infrared therapy supports detoxification, boosts cellular energy and circulation, and promotes skin health through collagen production. It also benefits the nervous

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

system, helping to reduce stress, improve sleep, and create an overall sense of wellness.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM INFRARED SAUNAS AND HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE THEM?

Infrared therapy is versatile and supports a wide range of wellness goals. Athletes and active individuals use it to speed muscle recovery and reduce soreness, while busy adults turn to infrared for stress relief and improved sleep. It’s also helpful for people with chronic pain, inflammation, or heat sensitivity who may find traditional saunas too intense. Brief, consistent sessions can provide noticeable benefits. “Just 15–20 minutes a few times a week can promote deep relaxation, increase energy, and support overall wellness,” Patty explains. “It’s an easy way for clients of all lifestyles to maintain balance and feel their best.” Whether you’re looking to bounce back from workouts, ease chronic pain, or simply unwind after a busy day, infrared saunas offer a gentle, effective way to support your body and mind. “Infrared therapy meets you where you are and supports your body in the way it needs most,” says Patty. “It’s a simple, powerful tool to help people feel better every day.”

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THE ALL IN

d i f fe r e n c e Inside the one-on-one approach driving All In Physical Therapy’s growth

ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CASON - CASE STUDIOS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

For Tommy Frevert, founder and owner of All In Physical Therapy, building a physical therapy practice was never just about opening a clinic—it was about creating a better experience for patients. After years in the PT field, he began noticing a shift in how care was delivered and wanted to offer something different to the community. “I could see trends in the physical therapy world,” he says. “I wanted to bring my own process.” That vision first took shape in Blue Springs, built on three core values: quality, connection, and individualized care. Those same values have guided All In PT’s growth into Lee’s Summit and now Belton. Expanding into Lee’s Summit was especially meaningful to Tommy. “I grew up in Lee’s Summit and always wanted to provide a quality product and clinic to my hometown.”

A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO PHYSICAL THERAPY

At the heart of All In PT is a simple philosophy: treat every patient like family. Each person receives undivided attention and a plan tailored specifically to them. “I’ve had many people tell me about past experiences where they were treated alongside two to four other patients at the same time,” Tommy shares. “At All In, this doesn’t happen. Our therapists get to focus entirely on the patient in front of them and their needs.” This one-on-one model allows the team to understand each patient’s goals, abilities, and challenges on a deeper level. It builds trust, strengthens motivation, and makes progress incredibly rewarding. “The best part is seeing patients get back to what they love,” Tommy says. “Knowing you had a small part in helping someone is very gratifying.”

SPECIALTY SERVICES & ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT

In addition to traditional rehab, All In PT offers specialized services including blood flow restriction therapy and dry needling that enhance recovery and performance. Their growing speed and agility training program is another standout, designed for athletes wanting to improve performance safely. Led by a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and a North American Sports Medicine personal trainer, the classes focus on drills that build strength, conditioning, and proper movement mechanics. One success story Tommy often thinks about is a young special-needs patient who worked hard to gain independence. “He started walking from class to class instead of using his walker,” he recalls. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B LU E S P R I N G S M O

“The most reward ing part of this wo r k i s s e e i n g people get back to what t h e y l ove . Knowing you played even a small role i s in c redibly g r a t i f y i n g .” “Seeing him get around the playground was awesome.” Watching former patients compete in college sports has also become a rewarding part of the job—giving young athletes confidence and reassurance that every drill is safe and effective. When it comes to long-term health, Tommy emphasizes the basics: “The biggest way to prevent injuries and stay healthy is being active and maintaining your flexibility. It’s important to stay strong while working out, but equally as important to keep your flexibility.”

A DEEP COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

Community involvement has always been a big part of All In PT. The clinics sponsor programs and teams throughout Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Independence, Lee’s Summit, and Belton, supporting local athletes and families year-round. Each year, they also host a cornhole tournament that provides scholarships for local students pursuing careers in healthcare. All In PT also welcomes high school and college students interested in healthcare, allowing them to shadow therapists and gain early, firsthand insight into the profession.

LOOKING AHEAD

As the clinics continue to grow, Tommy hopes to expand their speed and agility program and eventually move the Lee’s Summit and Belton locations into larger spaces. But the core of All In PT remains the same: a team of therapists who genuinely love what they do. “I’m lucky to have a fantastic team that cares deeply about their patients and enjoys their work,” Tommy says. “Their passion is what keeps us moving forward.”

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

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ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN

A Few Tips to Get You Rolling

Creating a Better Snowman There’s probably no more quintessential symbol of winter than a snowman. We’ve all seen Frosty and are probably pretty familiar with Olaf. But if you want to install one into your own yard, you’ll have to put a little elbow grease into creating one without the help of world-class animators. Here are some tips to help give your yard a well-dressed frozen sentry sure to turn your neighbors’ heads.

well-packed snowball and get rolling, but don’t just go in one direction. Roll the ball to start accumulating snow, then roll back, then roll in a different direction. Pack and begin to shape your snowball as you go. Reinforce as necessary. Look to use a 3-2-1 ratio for the sections.

Tip 3:

EVEN SNOWMEN CRAVE STABILITY.

Tip 1:

NOT ALL SNOW IS SNOWMAN SNOW. It takes more than a flurry to build a snowman. Heavy, slushy snow won’t work, and if it’s too powdery dry it won’t pack together. If you can pack a good snowball, you can build a snowman. Bonus tip: Dry snow can be modified to workable snowman snow with a quick spritz of water from a spray bottle, or a light mist from that garden hose you really should have already put away for the winter.

Tip 2:

ROLL TOWARDS YOUR GOAL — THE LONG WAY. Decide where to position your snowman and make that your finish line. Start with a

H OW TO | L I FE + C ULTUR E

Once you get your base section in place, shore up the bottom with snow. Then at the top, create a bowl-shaped indentation to allow the next section to sit securely. Ensure each section is well-packed with added snow around the “joint” between the sections.

Tip 4:

SNOW IS HEAVY. ENLIST A BUDDY. A willing helper can help lift that heavy next stage into place. You can even roll it onto a tarp and lift from either side to get it up there. A third set of hands can help move it into place. Otherwise, use plywood as a ramp to roll it up yourself (braced well against the bottom with plenty of support underneath, so as to not damage the base). You might need an extra bowl of Wheaties to roll it up there alone.

Tip 5:

PILOT HOLES ARE YOUR FRIEND. Simply jamming details into your snowman can mess with its integrity. Use a sharp stick to gently create some pilot holes for your features before you set them into place.

Tip 6:

GIVE HIM SOME PERSONALITY. There’s always that classic snowman uniform of a scarf, hat, a carrot nose and coal (sure, we all have that lying around these days — river rocks might be easier to get your hands on). Or you could be a bit more creative, maybe with an old oversized Hawaiian shirt, a jazzy vest, or go all-out and channel your inner Martha Stewart, breaking out your Dremel to make something custom for your wintery lawn guest. You might need to use your imagination — not many of us have corncob pipes or top hats anymore, either. Pro tip: if you’re dressing your snowman, put any body clothing you might use on before adding the arms. Just remember. If you mess it up, it’s ok because he’ll be back again some day.

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B LU E S P R I N G S M O

The Heart of Health Care Keys Health Direct Primary Care builds trust, time and transparency into every patient relationship When Vincent DeMarco, DO, opened Keys Health Direct Primary Care in Blue Springs in July 2025, he wasn’t looking for a career move—he was answering a calling. “I didn’t go into medicine to rush patients through appointments,” Dr. DeMarco said. “I wanted to take care of people the way they deserve. That meant doing something different.” After nearly a decade as a family physician in traditional healthcare settings, Dr. DeMarco made the leap into direct primary care, a model that removes the insurance middleman and prioritizes the doctor-patient relationship. At

Keys Health DPC, patients pay a flat monthly fee for unlimited access to their physician, longer appointment times, and care that goes beyond checklists.

MORE TIME, MORE TRUST

The patient experience at Keys Health is noticeably different from a traditional clinic—something Jennifer Hudson, a longtime medical assistant on Dr. DeMarco’s team, sees every day. “He takes the time to really talk with patients and listen to them,” she said. “People can tell he genuinely cares.”

ARTICLE BY MARY KING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRIER PHOTO

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Instead of juggling 20 or more appointments a day, Dr. DeMarco sees just a handful, allowing him to provide proactive, personalized care with longer visits, faster responses, and fewer referrals or trips to urgent care and the emergency room. Many longtime patients followed him to Keys Health because they already trusted his care, and now they have even more time to discuss their questions and concerns, leaving them feeling supported, confident, and empowered. The Keys Health office, located at 1604 NW Mock Ave. in Blue Springs, is welcoming and comfortable, without the sterile rush of a typical clinic. Patients often stop by to check in or say thank you. It’s healthcare the way it used to be, and the way it should be.

FAITH AND FOUNDATION

Dr. DeMarco often speaks about what drives his purpose. “My Catholic faith shaped the way I built this practice. For me, providing care means tending to the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.” That foundation also inspired the name of his practice. As he explains, “The ‘Keys’ in Keys Health traces back

“We focus on more than symptoms— patients gain time, support, and guidance to feel confident and cared for.” to Matthew 16:19, where Jesus gives Peter the Keys to the Kingdom of God.” In that same spirit, Keys Health represents unlocking better health and wellbeing, helping patients take an active role in their care and reach their fullest potential. At Keys Health, the approach goes beyond treating symptoms. Patients are supported in taking ownership of their health and making lasting changes that help them become their healthiest selves.

ROOTED IN FAMILY

At the heart of Keys Health is a deep appreciation for family. Dr. DeMarco and his wife both grew up in Missouri. After spending a few years in Kentucky, they moved back to the Midwest so they could raise their children in a close-knit community. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B LU E S P R I N G S M O

Today, he sees his work as an extension of his family values, treating every patient with the same care and honesty he’d want for his own loved ones.

A MODEL THAT WORKS

Direct primary care is not concierge medicine. It’s designed to be affordable, with monthly memberships often costing less than a cellphone bill—and no insurance billing. There are no co-pays, no surprise bills, and no waiting months for appointments. Unlike concierge practices, which typically charge high monthly fees and still bill insurance, Keys Health focuses on accessible, patient-centered care. This model is especially helpful for small business owners, independent contractors, families with high-deductible plans, and even those with

“Keys Health helps patients take an active role in their care.” traditional insurance. By removing insurance from the equation, Keys Health becomes patients’ first point of contact for care. The approach also allows Keys Health to offer in-house lab work and prescriptions at significant discounts, and virtual visits when needed. Without the paperwork and delays associated with insurance, more time and resources can be devoted to patient care. Both Dr. DeMarco and Jennifer have seen firsthand the difference this approach makes in patients’ lives. Many who were once overwhelmed or frustrated now have the time, support, and guidance they need to feel hopeful and confident.

A HEALTHIER WAY FORWARD

As Keys Health continues to grow, Dr. DeMarco remains focused on what matters most: helping people feel known, cared for, and empowered in their health journey. For him, direct primary care isn’t just a business model—it’s about restoring the heart of healthcare, bringing back trust, connection, and the sense that your doctor is truly in your corner. Patients from surrounding communities have joined Keys Health, seeking care that prioritizes connection and understanding. Jennifer notes that this personalized approach helps patients feel confident, supported, and truly heard. Seeing the impact in the community is confirmation for Dr. DeMarco, that stepping out to create Keys Health DPC was the right move—providing care that is both deeply personal and truly transformative.

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Vincent DeMarco, DO Keys Health Direct Primary Care is currently accepting new patients and offers a free consultation to see if the model is a good fit. To learn more, visit www. keyshealthdpc.com or call 816-974-6141.

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Sip Into WELLNESS ARTICLE BY KATARINA BREWER

As temperatures drop and cold and flu season sets in, many of us are looking for ways to support our wellness. That’s where elderberry comes in—a longtime herbal favorite gaining attention for its immune-supporting properties. Elderberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help reduce the duration and severity of colds when incorporated into your diet. While sipping an elderberry-infused punch isn’t a cure, combining it with warming flavors like cinnamon and fresh apple and pear makes for a delicious, healthful daily ritual.

DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

Appl e Ci d e r P un ch w ith El d e rbe r r y

Cinnamon Simple Syrup • ½ cup water • ½ cup granulated sugar • 1 cinnamon stick

Apple Cider Punch • 3 oz. apple cider • 3 oz. pear juice • 1/2 oz. cinnamon simple syrup • 2 tsp. elderberry syrup or extract • Ice • Apple and pear slices, for garnish

A c o z y, i m m u n e - b o o s t i n g p u n c h w i t h e l d e r b e r r y, c i n n a m o n , a n d f r e s h f r u i t—p e r fe c t fo r s i p p i n g a l l s e a s o n

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Make the Cinnamon Simple Syrup 1. In a small saucepan, heat the water over medium-high heat. Add the sugar, and stir until dissolved. 2. Remove from the heat and add the cinnamon stick. Let steep for 30 minutes to 3 hours. (Keep in mind that the longer the cinnamon steeps, the stronger the cinnamon flavor will be.) 3. Once steeped, strain the syrup into a mason jar and keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks until you’re ready to mix your drink. Make the Punch 1. In a glass, pour in equal measurements of apple cider and pear juice. 2. Stir in the cinnamon simple syrup and elderberry syrup. 3. Add ice and garnish with thinly sliced pear and apple slices. 4. Serve immediately, and enjoy one a day

TIPS: • Make the cinnamon simple syrup in advance. • Turn this into a crowd-pleaser by combining the cider, pear juice, and syrup in a pitcher—then let guests add their own elderberry syrup to suit their serving size. • Slice apple and pear garnishes in advance and toss them with a bit of lemon juice to keep them looking fresh.

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JANUARY 2026

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JA NUA RY 9 T H – 1 1 T H

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