Finance + Legal Services

Fortifying Your Future

Bonds as a Wealth Strategy Article by Brian Abbott | Photography by Anthony Fergola In the world of investment, diversification isn't just a strategy; it's a necessity. Bonds have traditionally been viewed as the less glamorous cousin of stocks, and play a pivotal role in the balanced financial portfolio. We would like to discuss why incorporating bonds into your investment strategy can provide stability, income, and a counterbalance to the volatility of the stock market.  Bonds are heading...

March 2024

Local Services

Seeing Abilities

Cottonwood Industries Offers Cost-Effective Subcontracting Opportunities for Local Businesses Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Anthony Fergola On West 31st Street is a 66,000-square-foot production facility buzzing with employees hard at work. This is Cottonwood Industries, a division of Cottonwood, Inc. Since 1972, they have partnered with businesses nationwide to provide high-quality, cost-effective, light industrial services such as assembly, packaging, warehousing, and mailing. ...

March 2024

Education

Investing in Your Past

Genealogy is a Journey into the Past for Our Future Article by Denise DeTommaso | Photography by Anthony Fergola Genealogy, the study of family ancestries and histories, is an invaluable discipline that extends far beyond mere hobbyist interest. Its significance lies in connecting individuals with their past, informing their present, and shaping the legacy they leave for future generations. Genealogy expert Alysa Branham teaches beginning classes at the Watkins Museum of History. Courses like...

March 2024

Sports + Recreation

Furniture with Substance

Quality Pieces are an Investment in Home and Wellbeing Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Kristol Kumar While a house is the most significant life investment for most people, what you put inside to make it your home is also an investment. For 15 years, Eagle's Rest Natural Home has guided homeowners in selecting quality furnishings that will last generations. "I've always been interested in how things are made," says owner Diane Gercke. "What's important to me is what the furniture is...

March 2024

Food + Beverage

The Perfect Combo

Spring is the Perfect Season to Enjoy These Enhanced Spins on a Beloved Meal Article by Linda Ditch Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich I adapted this recipe from the one served at The Mirth Café, a now-closed restaurant once located downtown. This was my favorite order, filled with three cheeses, some baby spinach leaves, and a smear of pesto. Serves 1 Ingredients: 2 pieces of bread Butter 1-2 teaspoons pesto, to taste 1-2 slices of provolone Grated sharp cheddar Feta cheese, crumbled...

March 2024

Real Estate

Home Buying 101

What to Know When Looking for Your Dream Home Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Anthony Fergola Spring is considered the start of the home-buying season. If you are planning to buy a new house, Lawrence City Lifestyle got some critical information from McGrew Real Estate Associate Broker/Realtor Kimberly Williams and Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation branch manager Diane Fry to help smooth your way forward. LCL: Why should a home buyer work with a buyer's agent instead of just...

March 2024

Home + Design

Kitchen Style

What to Consider Before Your Next Remodel Article by Denise DeTommaso | Photography by Anthony Fergola When remodeling a kitchen, finding the perfect style can be overwhelming. The team at Paradise Carpet One Floor and Home helped outline a stepwise thought process to approach kitchen design with an eye for preferred décor, efficiency, and personal expression. Erin Wyatt, owner and director of sales, explains, "When it comes to kitchen design, it's about striking a balance between timeless...

February 2024

Home Services

Cut Cooling Costs

Keep Your Wallet From Heating Up This Summer Article by Linda Ditch It never fails: Just when your wallet gets a break from heating costs, air conditioner season arrives. Thank goodness there are ways to cut those bills in the inexpensive and investment price ranges. Wayne Duncan of Dunco Heating, Cooling and Plumbing suggests homeowners start by having their system checked. “Servicing your A/C each year can help maintain the efficiency and dependability of the unit. Regular filter changes...

February 2024

Real Estate

To Buy or Not to Buy

What's Hot in the Lawrence Real Estate Market Article by Linda Ditch Real estate has had a bumpy ride over the past couple of years. Lawrence City Lifestyle decided to check in with Holly Garber, owner and broker of American Dream Reality, to check out the situation from someone on the inside. LCL: Overall, how is the real estate market doing in Lawrence? Garber:  The real estate market for the coming year will continue to be active since Lawrence and the Greater Kansas City area are...

February 2024

Food + Beverage

Come Cook!

Cooking School Teaches New Global Skills to Try at Home Article by Denise DeTommaso | Photography by Anthony Fergola In the heart of bustling downtown Lawrence, a unique culinary school has opened its doors, inviting adults and children on an extraordinary gastronomic journey. The Cookshop on 8th is the brainchild of Chef Carolyn Kumpe, who spent 37 years in California and French professional kitchens before coming to Kansas.  "My vision is to introduce students to new foods that are simple...

February 2024