COMO | The Health & Wellness Issue 2023

HEALTH WELLNESS +

As the official team physicians for Mizzou Athletics, MU Health Care provides world-class care for Mizzou’s premier athletes. That means the specialists you see caring for the Mizzou Tigers are the same sports medicine experts you can find caring for athletes of all ages at the Missouri Orthopaedic Institute.

Happy Holidays

2023 & Best Wishes in the New Year

Tennille Lester, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Trust Ofcer, helps individuals and families in the areas of investment management, retirement, tax, and estate planning, trust administration and estate settlement.

Jenny Hayes, Account Administrator, is often a rst point of contact when you call or visit our ofce. She assists Tennille in providing the best client service and handling the day-to-day ofce administration.

Tennille & Jenny

Let us help you to be prosperous in the new year, by assisting you in dening your nancial goals and creating an investment strategy that will put you on a path to live life to its fullest!

“If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.”

– Albert Einstein

After meeting at Rock Bridge High School as teenagers, reuniting and dating for a year, Kelsey (Oerly) and Eric Clark were married on January 8, 2022 with the wedding ceremony held at the beautiful Firestone Baars Chapel and a reception following at Coopers Ridge Event Venue.

Kelsey and Eric’s day was filled with undertones of their love story and how they came together as a couple. They had a close friend officiate their ceremony and fellow RBHS alums, Kristen and Andrew Camp of The January Lanterns, played the ceremony music, including Kiss the Girl from The Little Mermaid.

Their reception was a reflection of their fun and laid back personalities. Guests RSVP’ed for either burgers, pizza, or tacos and dessert featured a whole wall of tasty treats for guests. DJ Shark Attack kept the dance floor going and guests loved watching the live painting from Cindy Scott unfold.

The bridal party braved the chilly weather for photos around Stephens College campus and Coopers Ridge which gave Eric and Kelsey a reason to show off their wedding shoes. Eric was given his first pair of black and gold Jordans from his groomsmen and Kelsey chose Jimmy Choo flats.

Kelsey and Eric’s wedding day may have been cold, but it was full of the warmth of their love!

VENDORS*

Final Stages

Coordination: Delight Events

Ceremony: Firestone Baars

Reception: Coopers Ridge Event Venue

Photography: Catherine Rhodes Photography

Videography: RP Films

Floral: Hyvee Nifong

Rentals: A1 Party & Event Rental Columbia

DJ: DJ Shark Attack

Transportation: Concierge SUV

Hair and Makeup: Once Upon a Bride

Cake: Hyvee Nifong

Catering: Hyvee Nifong

Live Painting: Cindy Scott Artistry

Entertainment: The January Lanterns

Bridal Gown: Mikaella from Ultimate Bride *correction to the previous issue

Wholistic Health

Books to add to your reading list this year.

hen I think of the topic of health and wellness, it lls me with dread. Dread of resolutions I know that I won’t make because I know that I will fail them. Dread of what I know I should be doing but don’t start because I’m a perfectionist. If you know someone like that you know we don’t start anything we can’t be perfect at. However, this year, the topic of health and wellness has taken on a whole new meaning for me.

I’ve been fairly transparent that 2022 was a challenging year. If you’re just catching up, 2022 was a tough year… in business, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. If I was going to be tested, it was going to and did happen in 2022. As I spent a week in the hospital for exhaustion and other health issues caused by stress, it became ever increasingly clear to me that my health wasn’t just a physical issue. at in order for me to be who I’m meant to be and the best version of myself, then I needed to address this issue head on in each area of my physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.

MENTALLY

I’m a huge proponent that everyone needs a therapist. My son texted me recently asking if I thought he needed a therapist. I said immediately, “Yes!”, without even asking more questions. (I did eventually ask more questions.) en I told him that the reason is that life is hard; learning who we are as we grow and change as we get older is hard; and that investing time and energy into being emotionally healthy is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves and for those we love. I have a therapist that I love and trust. I recommend her to everyone, especially my type A, baller-chick business friends. She really knows how to cut through our BS. ings go best when I’m truly honest with her.

WPHYSICALLY

Oof. In this area, I have done two things. I hired a functional nutritionist, Karri Ball (you’ll learn more about her later in this issue) and started reading a book called “Atomic Habits.” I am working on building the habits that will nourish my body and help me be kinder to it. It’s shockingly harder than it seems. I’m busy. I never eat breakfast and if I eat lunch, I’m lucky. I survive o co ee and adrenaline and my body hates me. We are working on that.

SPIRITUALLY

Well, this is a hard one. I’ve learned that without this one, the three-legged stool of holistic health falls. I try to operate on my own power with the best of them, but I just can’t anymore. I have asked three people I trust deeply in my church to walk with me as I work my way out of a shame-based identity and into one of a deeper trust in God. I started by being honest about where I was … trying to solve the world’s problems on my own. en, I read the book “ e Cure.” I highly recommend it for anyone who is struggling in their faith.

Ultimately, I’m grateful for those that have shown up for me and have proven that I can lean into the comfort of and wisdom of my friends and those that love me. I’ll leave you with this: check on your friends, especially those who are business owners and responsible for the livelihoods of others. We have had it rough, and many of us are not ok. ankfully, I’m now ok … and working my way to healthy.

ON THE COVER

ERICA PEFFERMAN PUBLISHER

Letter from the Publisher

Mat Gass, President, Brightli Central Region (parent company of Burrell Behavioral Health)

Photo by Charles Bruce

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Ifeel like a year went by in the blink of an eye… but here we are, a whole new year in front of us. Welcome to the year 2023, friends!

e Health and Wellness issue… luckily health and wellness can have multiple meanings. I could have Mexican food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And if you know me, you know I love my Busch Light.

If you see me running… call the police because someone is chasing me. I expect Jeremiah Hunter to drop everything and come to my rescue!

But where I am over-abundantly healthy is within my mental health, my emotional health, my spiritual health. And that, to me, is one of the richest forms of health. When I truly take a moment to stop and sit with my thoughts — I am overwhelmed with gratitude.

I have been blessed with the most loving and supportive family to ever exist. If I decide tomorrow that I want to build a spaceship and y to the moon, within minutes my dad would be searching how to build a spaceship and my mom would be sewing up my spaceship out t. (Is that a thing?!) I have three built-in best friends with my sisters, who would hide the body without asking

questions. My three kids, my friends, more nieces and nephews than I can count… I am one lucky lady.

Whichever form of health and wellness you are needing in your life, I would love to support you on that journey. We have a deep Rolodex of connections in our community. From tness coaches, nutritionists, therapists, and everything in between. If you nd yourself needing any sort of support moving into this new year, we would love to help you make those connections. To nd your tribe of people — volunteering is good for the soul, and there are so many organizations needing volunteers. You are welcome to be my guest at a Women’s Network luncheon. I invite anyone and everyone to my church on a Sunday morning. I sometimes struggle with how much to share with you guys… I know we all have di erent views and beliefs, and to me that is great!

at is what makes the world go round. If you are feeling lost... pull up a chair and let me tell you ‘bout my Jesus. (Queue the song “My Jesus”, by Anne Wilson.)

You want to go to the moon? I am sure my mom would sew you up a spaceship out t, too. I have been so blessed and would love more than anything to return those blessings.

Let’s normalize asking for help! It breaks my heart to think of anyone

hurting or feeling alone. We have such an amazing, supportive community.

And there are tools and resources for whichever situation you may be facing. Whichever season of life you are in, just know that you are seen, you are loved, and there are people who are here for you! Health and Wellness is not a one size ts most… we will nd your perfect t.

What do you want to see us talk about in upcoming issues? My email is always open — Kim@comomag.com.

Sending you the warmest wishes!

KIM AMBRA EDITOR

Letter from the Editor

If you see me running… call the police.

Left: My mom and sisters. Below: Nana and Papa with all the grands.

XO,

“I have been blessed with the most loving and supportive family to ever exist.”

2516 Forum Blvd. #102 (573) 445-4444 compass-chiropractic.com

President Erica Pefferman Erica@comomag.com

EDITORIAL

Publisher | Erica Pefferman Erica@comomag.com

Editor | Kim Ambra Kim@comomag.com

Digital Editor | Jodie Jackson Jr. Jodie@comomag.com

DESIGN

Creative Director | Kate Morrow Kate@comomag.com

Senior Designer | Jordan Watts Jordan@comomag.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Charles Bruce, Mary Click Photography, Lana Eklund, Anthony Jinson, Chris Padgett

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Candice Ball, Alicia Belmore, Sam Barrett, Lauren Sable Freiman, Jules Graebner, Jodie Jackson, Amanda Long, Steve Spellman, Michelle Terhune

Director

of Operations

Amy Ferrari Amy@comomag.com

MARKETING

Director of Sales | Charles Bruce Charles@comomag.com

Director of Events | Scott Callahan Scott@comomag.com

OUR MISSION

To inspire, educate, and entertain the citizens of Columbia with quality, relevant content that reflects Columbia’s business environment, lifestyle, and community spirit.

CONTACT

Business Times Holdings, LLC 18 S. Ninth St. Ste 201, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 499-1830 comomag.com /wearecomomag @wearecomomag

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Advisory Board

Representing Voices from All Different Walks of Life.

We take pride in representing our community well and we couldn’t do what we do without our COMO Magazine advisory board. Thank You!

Beth Bramstedt

Associate Pastor

Christian Fellowship Church

Heather Brown

Strategic Partnership Officer

Harry S Truman VA Hospital

Chris Cottle

Walk Manager

Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter

Nickie Davis

Executive Director

The District, Downtown CID

Alex George

Owner

Skylark Bookshop

Executive Director

Unbound Book Festival

Author

Chris Horn

Reinsurance Manager Shelter Insurance

Barbra Horrell

Consultant

Horrell Associates

Jeremiah Hunter

Assistant Police Chief

Commander Investigations Bureau

Columbia Police Department

Kris Husted

Senior Content Editor

NPR Midwest Newsroom

Amanda Jacobs Owner

Jacobs Property Management

Darren Morton Program Director

Turning Point

David Nivens

Chief Executive Officer Midwest Computech

Suzanne Rothwell

Vice President

Advancement Division Columbia College

Megan

Steen

Vice President Burrell Behavioral Health

La Toya Stevens

Director of Communications for the Division of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity University of Missouri-Columbia

Nathan Todd

Business Services Specialist

First State Community Bank

Wende Wagner

Director of Philanthropy

The Missouri Symphony

Prototype shown with options.

28

WORTH THE WAIT

The secret to surviving an age-in-place bathroom remodel during COVID chaos? A lot of patience and homemade lasagna.

FROM THE INSIDE, OUT

An alternative approach to healthcare.

MORE THAN A RIDE

OATS Transit fills essential need across Missouri.

Forty Years of Fitness

BY ALICIA BELMORE

If you know Columbia, you've heard of Wilson’s Fitness Centers.

is year, Terry Wilson and his energetic team are celebrating their 40th anniversary. e key to the longevity of Wilson’s Fitness Centers may just be written in its mission statement: “Move Better, Feel Better, Simply Live Better.”

Terry and crew have grown the business into what it is today. As the times have changed, Wilson’s has also seen the need for people to get healthier in di erent ways. When working with members on their goals as individuals the centers are focusing more on yoga and wholebody wellness as well as cardio and weight training. ese goals can vary widely, but

Wilson’s Fitness Centers continue to find ways to adapt and grow entering its fourth decade of business in Columbia.

they all point back to their mission statement. “We want to help this community move better, feel better and simply live better.” says Ashten Robinson, who is the director of marketing for Wilson’s.

WHAT’S NEW?

With all the di erent goals of members in mind, they have added new classes to the already extensive roster. e team at Wilson’s has grown, remodeling some areas and sharpening its focus.

Newly added are some yoga classes, and wellness classes where members can focus, be still, and meditate. Water rowing classes are among the newest options.

“Water rowing is particularly good as it uses 84 percent of your muscle mass,” Ashten says.

She explained Wilson's has set up a trifecta of sorts: RRX, or tness prescription, that puts the new water rower machines in the mix with spin class, and TRX to get a full body workout in about 45 minutes.

e class takes place in the back, larger studio overlooking a tree-covered hilltop which makes it "that much more lovely for body and mind," Ashten says.

e locations and layouts have changed over the years. Today there are two locations: one on Forum Boulevard and one on Rangeline Street. ey are similar and complement one another. Forum is home to a hidden indoor pool for laps and aquatic classes, and Rangeline boasts a large area for aerial silks classes. ere are also two full-sized outdoor pools that members and their familes can enjoy, as well as the MAC center that includes basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts, and free weights.

WHY WILSON’S?

“ e people, our team, make our tness centers second to none,” Ashten says. “Everyone is so welcoming and they truly want to help. ey believe in the plan and our mission.”

Many of Wilson's team members have furthered their education—even traveling the world—to enhance their knowledge and expertise to help individuals meet health and wellness goals. Also, with multiple buildings and facilities with a variety of amenities, there is sure to be something for everyone of all ages.

WHAT'S TO COME?

As part of its 40-year anniversary last year, Wilson's hosted a summer party and a bring-a-friend-with-you workout event for the team in October. In December, the team got a surprise visit from Santa, who was also there to get in some reps.

Wilson's got the new year started with new groups designed to help tness members get headed in the right direction on health and wellness goals. e team's biggest fundraiser of the year—Fitness for a Cure—is set for February 18 at e Crossing Church in Columbia.

Wilson's partners with the American Cancer Society and Faith rough Fire to raise support and awareness for individuals and families a ected by cancer. e day includes a lineup of classes, snacks, kids' activities, and a silent auction from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. that day.

WILSON’S FITNESS CENTERS

2902 Forum Blvd 2601 Rangeline St 573-446-3232

wilsonsfitness.com

A Natural Approach

Centuries of research and development have gone into what we know today as traditional medicine. However, a not-so-new approach is on the rise: Holistic medicine.

BY SAM BARRETT

Despite other tried and true methods of healthcare, some people look for out-of-the-box ideas to treat themselves.

Holistic medicine boils down to taking a “whole body” approach to health and medicine and often deals with more natural and self-reliant methods of health.

e Paci c College of Health and Science explains that “the human body has a wonderful capacity to heal itself, yet many people deprive their bodies of that ability by solely focusing on traditional medicine for most ailments." e de nition adds that holistic medicine takes a whole-person approach to medical care and wellness. As more and more people want to feel better without reliance on drugs, this is an area growing in demand.

THE HISTORY OF THE HOLISTIC APPROACH

Although the popularity and knowledge of holistic medicine has grown rapidly over the past few years, it has been a growing practice for decades now. Or even centuries. Holistic medicine can be traced back to the 6th century B.C.E. India, where a holistic approach called Ayurveda was practiced.

Holistic medicine even has connections to the father of modern medicine himself, Hippocrates, who encouraged the self-healing of the body.

Traditional medicine developed immensely, however, according to the Paci c College of Health and Science, when in the 1960’s more and more people began to move away from traditional drugs and practices and pushed for a more natural approach.

is public support and motivation led to the 1975 National Conference on Holistic Health in California. ree years later the American Holistic Medical Association was formed.

HOLISTIC MEDICINE TODAY

Holistic medicine’s popularity has remained stagnant since the 1960s; however, popularity surges now more than ever. After facing a life-changing pandemic, people are searching for more well-rounded, self-reliant, natural approaches to their health.

Similar to traditional medicine, there are numerous di erences in holistic medicine practices, some more well-known than others: acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic care, naturopathy, massage therapy, herbal medicines, homeopathic remedies, mental health counseling, osteopathy, yoga, and more.

Holistic medicine often encompasses a lot more methods than traditional medicine because of the “whole body” approach. Holistic medicine involves taking a look at more than just the physical or surface-level issues—attempting to dive deeper into your life habits, mental health, spiritual health, and more to best solve a health issue. One holistic approach could deal with your energy and your mindfulness while the next could deal with your back pain through massage therapy. e methods are endless.

One holistic therapist specializes in both of those methods in Columbia. Angie Butts is the owner of Triple Flame Healing LLC (upper level of Woodstock Building, 2600 Forum Blvd b2) and specializes in energy work and massage therapy.

“My abilities consist of being able to 'feel' energies and frequencies. When I am doing an energy scan of my client, I will feel di erent frequencies and energies which tell me what chakras and/or areas of the body need to be addressed,” Angie says. "Overall, I provide a safe place for my clients to pause and go within so they may access their core self. When we can pause, take a breath, meditate, it calms the active mind and allows our soul to speak.”

Angie started her holistic medicine journey in 2016, quickly becoming interested in “how our bodies can heal themselves through holistic therapies.” rough her research and training, Angie said “my own body began to heal itself from years and years of trauma,” which she now works to accomplish with her clients.

One Triple Flame Healing client attests to Angie's approach: "My physical symptoms have diminished and they’re almost gone; my energy chakras are mostly open and I feel as if I’m becoming more in tune with my spiritual side. I have a very positive outlook and where I’m at in my life, and little mishaps no longer bother me,

like they were in the past. I feel more peaceful and content with myself.”

THE PROS AND CONS

When it comes to traditional or holistic medicine, there isn’t a de nite answer. It all depends on what you want to get out of your healthcare and what you see as valuable or in uential when it comes to taking care of yourself.

The Pros of Holistic Medicine

Here are some bene ts of a holistic approach according to Everyday Health; • e “whole body” approach: Holistic practitioners address not just the physical, but emotional and spiritual aspects of health.

• Personal attention: Visiting a traditional doctor’s o ce can often feel very impersonal and rushed. However, when often dealing with emotional and spiritual aspects of health there is a lot more personal, one-on-one attention.

• Focus on prevention: Traditional practitioners often get involved once a disease has begun a ecting a patient. However, holistic medicine often deals with treatments that prevent disease before it occurs.

The Cons of Holistic Medicine

One of the public’s main hesitations about holistic medicine is the lack of research. Years of scienti c research have led to to-

day’s traditional medicine; not the same can be said of holistic medicine. is leads people to question whether holistic approaches are safe or natural — or if they work at all. However, as more and more people become interested in a natural lifestyle there is a push for more research on holistic and alternative medicine.

According to a report in Research and Markets, “ e global complementary and alternative medicine market reached a value of $100 billion in 2021. Looking forward, the market is projected to reach $315.5 billion by 2027.” at means that popularity in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) will only continue to grow “as it provides comfort and reduces the stress of patients.”

“Overall, I provide a safe place for my clients to pause and go within so they may access their core self. When we can pause, take a breath, meditate, it calms the active mind and allows our soul to speak.”

ANGIE BUTTS, OWNER OF TRIPLE FLAME HEALING

THE WAIT WORTH

The secret to surviving an age-in-place bathroom remodel during COVID chaos? A lot of patience and homemade lasagna.

PHOTOS BY MARY CLICK PHOTOGRAPHY

When Je and Laura Porter hired

e Swift Companies LLC to renovate the master bathroom of their home at Katy Lane in early 2020, they had a keen eye on their future. Laura has an autoimmune disease that could someday lead her to be in a wheelchair.

e bathroom remodel needed to meet the Porter’s current needs, as well as potential future accommodations.

ey signed the master bathroom project contract on March 18, 2020. Unfortu-

nately, the timing turned out to be historic. It was also the same day the rst COVID-related death occurred in Boone County. e Swift team had been working to complete a basement bathroom remodel before tackling the master bath project. e team had only two items left to complete — a shower curtain rod and a piece of trim to install in the shower.

Laura recalls, “My doctor said, ‘You don’t need anybody in the house. You need to lock down.’ at put everything on hold.”

Ryan Payne, owner of e Swift Companies, also remembers it clearly.

“We were going over that day” to complete the project “and were told ‘no.’ We had to wait until we got the okay from the doctor before we could proceed,” he says.

e wait lasted two years.

Fast-forward from the date that the world changed, to dramatic, eye-popping price increases on just about everything — especially construction materials — to supply chain chaos, to early December 2022 when the master bathroom project was nished, and the Porters treated Ryan and the Swift team to a lasagna lunch in their home in the Limerick Lakes neighborhood.

e single-family house, built in 1989 in south-central Columbia, has ve bedrooms and 3,883 square feet of living space, which includes a nished basement. Laura says the original bathroom had “a huge, jetted tub that we didn’t use,” a small, compact shower, one sink, and a 36-inch opening with a stylish pocket door. e new space also features a double-sink vanity, a large shower that can accommodate a wheelchair, dual handheld showerheads, a ramp to the shower, and more usable cabinet space.

ere’s no grout to clean and the only glass is in the built-in medicine cabinets.

“It’s a very low-maintenance bathroom, which was particularly important to me,” Laura adds. “Everything done was to facilitate a very user-friendly, easy-to-maintain space.” She’s hopeful that the wheelchair-accessible features won’t need to be used for a wheelchair, but just in case …

e Swift team and design partner DKB worked with Laura and Je to make the space as compliant as possible with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.

“ e master bathroom is now wheelchair compliant,” Ryan says. “ ey wanted to come up with a game plan that would ful ll their needs now and also in the future. ey’re looking ahead as they consider this their forever home.”

e Porters are retired journalists. ey bought their house in 2011 and are more than happy with the project.

“We took the space that we had and with their help designed one that would work for a wheelchair, and have enough room for a helper,” Laura adds. “Our new

master bathroom makes it much easier to get someone into the home and help care for us, should that need arise.”

Je says the couple learned what they needed by experiencing the challenges of caring for their mothers in a home they previously owned.

“ ere was no full bath or bedroom on the main level,” he says. “We bought this house that Swift had been working on as a place where we can age in place.” e Porters agreed to make sure they had everything they would need — now and in the future — on one level. at meant creating a nished product that could be easily retro tted later if necessary.

“Our bathroom vanity looks like a normal bathroom vanity,” Laura says. “But pieces can be unbolted and removed in case one of us gets in a wheelchair.” Ryan adds that the countertop would stay in place, allowing someone in a wheelchair to use the vanity.

e Porters already had extensive experience with Swift completing projects in their home. e big master bath project was on the drawing board but rst, the couple needed to have a functioning bathroom while that project was being done. Ryan’s team was renovating the basement bathroom to allow for the master bathroom project when COVID came calling.

“ ey worked tirelessly to get the basement done,” Laura says. Swift arranged to nish that project when the Porters had to be away for an appointment, but the master bathroom plan was on hold.

“COVID really hit in 2020 and the environment was so di erent,” he says. Suddenly, the demand for home renovation projects exploded.

Ryan has an observation that he thinks helps explain the surge of building project requests.

“Everybody was in lockdown, and it seemed they began to take a fresh look at a crack that needed attention in their home, or a door that doesn’t quite close

all the time,” he says. “ e phone started ringing and it just would not stop.”

In the meantime, there were new delays in deliveries, manufacturing bottlenecks, and product availability issues the team had to work hard to overcome.

Ryan said Swift’s kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects went forward as quickly as possible. e Porters’ project was an unusual exception — and because of COVID restrictions on some products coming from out of state, timelines went from a normal turnaround of ve to six weeks to 13 to 15 weeks.

Ryan remembers, “You literally doubled or tripled your timeframe with some projects.” He also recalls his team had to place plywood countertops in nearly- nished kitchens to make them functional until the preferred countertops arrived, adding, "It was a time where we partnered with the homeowners to make things work well in very unusual circumstances."

When COVID concerns lessened and Laura’s doctor gave the go-ahead for Swift to begin the master bath remodel, the higher costs resulting from COVID supply chain and manufacturing delay issues had to be reevaluated.

“Prices did change,” Laura says, “but there were some things we didn’t want to compromise on.” For instance: waterproof, luxury vinyl tile; high-quality cabinetry; and a quartz countertop. e Porters also insisted on getting the shower panels, base, trim, and accessories from e Onyx Collection — custom-made pieces manufactured in Kansas.

“We initially thought the project would take eight weeks to complete” because of supply chain issues “but it was ve months from start to nish,” Laura says. “We all patiently waited and now we have a wonderful bathroom.”

She is con dent that the current and future functionality of the project will justify the costs.

“Gutting and renovating a bathroom is not cheap and it isn’t for the faint of heart,” she says. “But if it delays our entry into assisted living or a nursing home by six months, it will have paid for itself.”

e Porters and Ryan also point out that one of the most meaningful aspects of the months-long project — and the experience of prior projects at the Porter home — is the relationship they have built.

"Our friendly team often becomes like

family throughout a project. We usually get to know everyone. We even get to know and love their pets,” Ryan says.

Laura laughs when she remembers a text message she received from a Swift crew member who was working in their home while she and Je were away.

“We trust them to work inside our house,” she says. “And this is so cool. One day one of them sent me a picture of our cat.”

But the project wasn’t o cially nished until the Porters treated them to lasagna.

“She had all 10 of us over there two weeks prior to Christmas,” Ryan remembers. “With our work, you have people who will literally cry because they’re going to miss you.”

Laura says the experience can be bittersweet.

“ ere are a couple of those guys we’ve worked with o and on for years,” she

explains. “ ey’re almost like family. We were there most of the time they were working on our house. ey went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure we were happy. ey were so respectful of us and our space.”

e lasagna lunch was an expression of their gratitude.

“Je and I served them,” Laura says. “You can say ‘thank you,’ but your actions speak louder than your words. We wanted them to know just how much we appreciated all they did for us.”

e Porters have already hired Swift for another project, turning over their house keys and alarm codes in case they are out of town.

“It takes a long time to nd a contractor that you can trust with your alarm code,” she says.”

“As a member of the Board, I am REDI because I believe in creating an economy that works for all members in our community!”

Susan Hart, Vice President, Reinhardt Construction columbiaredi.com

Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI)

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WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

I

nstalling a new flagstone patio at your home is a great way to add living space without going through the hassle of renovating your house. As you start the process of designing the patio, one of the important considerations to keep in mind is how the patio will be constructed. There are two main methods of installing a flagstone patio. They can be dry-laid or mortared on concrete. Understanding the differences between these two methods can help dictate how the patio needs to be installed.

When a new patio is said to be dry-laid, it typically means that stone is installed on a base that consists of a compacted base rock footing and a chat or sand leveling layer. Once those layers are done, the finish material can then be laid on top of the base and polymeric sand installed in the joints. The other method of installing the patio is to pour a concrete pad as the base. Then, you can adhere the stone to the concrete base with mortar and fill the gaps between the stones with mortar. The mortar under the stone is used to adhere the stone to the concrete, but also act as the leveling layer. Each method has their time and place, but how do you decide which way is best?

The first thing I consider is the material that has been selected to use as the patio. The thickness of the stone can help determine if you can dry lay or if you need to install it on a concrete base. Generally, if the stone is less than 1.5 inches thick, it is preferred to install it on the concrete base. As the thickness of the stone decreases, the stone can be more fragile and the chances of it breaking over time from seasonal movement goes up. Installing the stone on concrete will decrease those chances of breaking. If the flagstone is thicker than 1.5 inches, both ways of installation are acceptable.

When both methods are acceptable, the next consideration is the budget of the project we are trying to work with. In most cases, the dry-laid option takes less time to install, resulting in a smaller cost compared to the concrete method. The concrete and mortar method tends to require more steps and is more labor intensive to install the concrete and then to mortar each stone to that concrete base. You are essentially pouring a patio out of concrete and then facing the concrete with the flagstone.

Jacob comes from the small town of California, Missouri. With his plant science degree from MU and six years with Rost, he enjoys creating exciting outdoor spaces for his clients. Watching these creations come to life is only one highlight of being a designer for Rost. When he is not designing, he loves spending time with his wife and kids, tournament bass fishing, and doing a little bit of woodworking.

One more thing to consider during the process is the long-term maintenance of each type of patio. The concrete / mortar method will require less maintenance. Typically, cleaning the patio is about all that is needed. With the dry laid method, the polymeric sand in the joints will need to be replaced over time as weather causes the sand to wear away.

If you don’t know which method works best for your project, an experienced designer can help you with that decision.

A NEW YEAR = NEW RESOLUTIONS

By Shaun Henry Find more at AtkinsInc.com

This year I’m going to do something different. I resolve to spend more time reading, traveling more with my beautiful wife, and trying to squeeze in more fishing. We’re hashing out the details for a fishing trip already.

What’s on your New Year’s resolution list? Here are a few common resolutions for your lawn and landscape.

Lose Weight

• Trimming unhealthy and dead branches from your shrubs, ornamentals, and shade trees will not only lighten their load, it can encourage new growth to help invigorate your older plants. Pay attention to limbs that could pose a hazard in the future and prune them away as needed.

• You should also remove fallen limbs, twigs, leaves and other debris from the lawn to make room for the turf to “green up” this coming spring.

• Taking a few hundred pounds off of your trees can increase air flow, sunlight penetration and if done properly, can improve the trees’ structure. The lawn below will benefit as well.

Get Organized

• Work on your to-do list now. Look around your lawn and landscape and start to plan for those spring, summer and fall projects. If you’re not sure where to start, contact Atkins and we can help with ideas, troubleshooting issues, and creating a plan of attack. An extra set of experienced eyes can be very helpful.

• Get rid of all that old lawn care material tucked in the back of your garage or shed. Do you really need that spreader that you haven’t used in 10 years? We tend to collect things and forget about them. Unload some of that clutter. If you have

SHAUN HENRY ATKINS

A Columbia native, Shaun Henry found a home at Atkins in 2000 when he started his career as a turf technician. Shaun holds a commercial applicator’s license through the Missouri Department of Agriculture and is a member of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, the Mid-America Green Industry Council, and the Missouri Green Industry Alliance. Shaun strongly believes in the importance of a great customer experience where the Atkins staff knows their clients and anticipates their needs accordingly.

Shaun is an MU alumnus and has a degree in plant science.

something potentially hazardous, be sure to check in with the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility in Columbia as to how to get rid of that material safely.

Reduce Stress

• High winds, heavy snow and ice loads, drought and extremely low temperatures can all add stress upon your trees and landscape plants. And don’t forget last summer’s drought! That stress damaged a lot of grass which was easy to see, but the damage to your trees can linger for several years and symptoms may not even appear until next summer or even the summer after that. Supplemental watering during drought periods, proper pruning practices, and the dormant feeding of your trees and shrubs can really head-off a lot of problems.

• With proper fertilization in the fall your grass will continue to develop roots and strengthen cell walls. Keep that in mind for next October, November and December.

• Also, remember to stay off your lawn while there is frost. You can kill the grass just by walking over it!

Eat Better

• Sound fertility practices can have profound effects on your lawn’s color, growth,

stress tolerance and overall health and performance.

• Dormant feeding of your ornamental trees and shrubs will make them healthier and in better shape for the next growing season.

• When you go back to mowing the lawn again, don’t forget to let the clippings fall. This will help to recycle the nutrients in the grass blades back into the soil.

Find More “Me Time”

• Our busy lives pull us in all sorts of directions and it’s often hard to make time for ourselves. Although working out in the lawn can be a healthy hobby and good exercise, shedding some of your lawn and landscape maintenance duties may be your key to spending time elsewhere and doing other things. Atkins is here for ya!

The lawn and landscaped areas around your home is part of your living space. Making plans for the growing season, taking proper care of your plants, and managing your turf to keep it all in good order will make this extended living area more enjoyable and more relaxing. No matter what’s on your New Year’s resolution List, we hope that you meet all of them and that you have a wonderful year!

WHITE GLOVE SERVICE IS STANDARD

By Jake Baumgartner Find more at baumgartners.com

JAKE BAUMGARTNER BAUMGARTNER’S FURNITURE

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

Today’s new normal of clicking to order almost everything from books and groceries to appliances and clothing — and getting those items delivered without interacting with a human — makes it seem that customer service is a lost art. Most of us can probably attest to an experience where we found that to be true; how a business waits until there is an issue before making a commitment to customer service.

At Baumgartner’s, our commitment to customer service — making customers know they are appreciated and valued — began more than 70 years ago, from the moment Emmett Baumgartner quit his job at the shoe factory in Fulton, Mo., to open a gas station in Kingdom City with his son, George. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and hard work, the father-son team added towing and taxi service and later opened a restaurant adjacent to the station.

They also dabbled in furniture sales and even sold the first television sets in the area. All along the way, the Baumgartner name was becoming a brand that was identified by loyalty to and from customers, nurtured by a commitment to customer service. That’s just one of the many reasons why Baumgartner’s has become your complete home furnishings store.

When an 18-wheeler plowed through the front of the restaurant, it was time to reevaluate the business and George left to open a furniture store in Auxvasse

in 1949. Not long after, Emmett closed the gas station and joined his son, and Baumgartner’s Furniture is still a familyowned, locally operated business serving mid-Missouri. For four generations, Baumgartner’s has offered hometown hospitality to customers who know the store for its small-town atmosphere and big-city selections.

After five decades of serving customers at the Auxvasse store, a Columbia store was added — Mattress World By Baumgartner’s — in 1999. Offering more products and services, the Columbia store now also offers a La-Z-Boy Gallery along with the state-of-the-art mattress gallery. No matter the changes and additions, Baumgartner’s pledge was — and continues to be — providing quality products and unparalleled service.

We offer in-store shopping and in-store pickup at the store in the Plaza Shopping Center, 1905 Bernadette Dr., Suite 102, in Columbia. Delivery is also an option and one that many customers take advantage of because we offer “white glove delivery service.”

What is “white glove delivery service?” Simply put, our exceptional customer

Jake essentially grew up in the furniture industry, as he is the fourth generation involved in Baumgartner’s Furniture. Working very closely with his father, Alan, Jake has been devoted to the stores full-time since 2004. His greatest enjoyment, however, still comes from working closely with the customers. He is married to Sarah, and they have two active boys, Noah and Laine. Jake received his degree in finance from Saint Louis University. (573) 256-6288

BAUMGARTNERS.COM

service does not end when you walk out of our doors or after you place an order. Here’s a quick overview of this service that is our standard:

• We arrange our delivery service when it is most convenient for you, delivering five days a week including Saturdays. (We charge a minimal fee of only $59 within a 50-mile delivery radius.)

• Our delivery service includes unpacking and removal of all shipping material, quality inspection of all items, and complete in-home setup.

• Understanding that your time is important, Baumgartner’s can call you shortly before your scheduled delivery.

Baumgartner’s is committed to creating a unique shopping experience from start to finish. This ensures the satisfaction of our customers and lets them know they are not just another sale. We have promised since the beginning to treat you with courtesy and respect — and this promise hasn’t changed in our more than 60 years of operation.

Ben Brammeier Associate

Rob Temple Associate Alyysha Cox Paralegal

Nathan Jones Partner

Ernie Ueligger Partner

Rylie Grove Assistant Emily Camden Paralegal

Katie Jackson Sr. Paralegal

New Options Empower Us to Take Charge of Our Health

BY STEVE SPELLMAN

Consuming medical care (or rather, paying for it) is a mystery of modern life.

You don’t know what something is going to cost up front, neither can the medical care provider provide an estimate. Even so, it’s uncertain what you’ll get billed after insurance discounts, co-pays, and deductibles; from multiple providers, up to six months after the fact.

Most people who have worked for medium-sized to larger employers simply purchase whatever group health plan is o ered. Or maybe there is a standard plan and an optional high deductible health plan, which costs less in monthly premiums, but the patient pays more for services provided. Relatively healthy people can often come out ahead, building up a Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay out of pocket expenses.

READY FOR 'CONCIERGE CARE?'

en there are also Health Care Sharing Plans, which are not technically insurance, but spread risk across its membership. Sort of a co-op with monthly subscription payments.

Smart people can get confused real fast, but options exist for savvy consumers to combine payment and coverage options.

Some people don’t want to mess with it, and would rather avoid uncertainty, so feel a sense of security paying more up front for their employer’s standard PPO plan.

Some doctor o ce visits are better than others. Many patients may not nd their primary care annual checkups very impressive, as the tendency in the industry is for maximum e ciency. at means patients wait a while, talk mostly to a nurse performing a data-gathering survey, then a doctor swoops in, con rms chart data, clari es some outliers, then

after ve minutes has one foot out the door and maybe prescribes some blood work or other tests. Sound familiar?

Heather Hargrove of Liberty Family Medicine describes Direct Primary Care, a service model innovation which turns this on its head. It's sometimes marketed as “concierge care.”

Typically, this is a monthly subscription which buys you access to a physician and their o ce resources. e doctor has recurring revenue ongoing, so can a ord to carry smaller patient load and therefore under-book daily appointments, to be able to t in urgent patient needs on short notice. e patient can email or text their doctor directly, something most people would nd unimaginable, unless they otherwise knew the doctor personally.

NEW HABITS FOR A NEW ROUTINE

Still, most health discussions revolve around cures for xing ailments. Everybody knows that a clean diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meat, and drinking water is good for a body.

at, coupled with a regular exercise regimen, as modern work has largely ltered out physical activity for most people. My cousin is a full-time family farmer, and he admits his job is mostly tractor driver and mechanic.

It seems many t people who are busy make a recurring, set appointment for exercise. Home gym at 6 a.m. six days a week for 45 minutes. Every day after work run three miles out the trail and back. Each Saturday afternoon bike a 20–25mile loop. Stretching and sit ups a half hour before bed every night. Whatever oats your boat, but make it a routine.

One fellow who’s a dedicated early bird on the home gym says he can feel it missing when traveling, or life otherwise disrupts this habit. e successful nd it enjoyable, they look forward to the pleasure of hu ng and pu ng with muscle fatigue — like a runner’s high.

WEARABLES MONITOR ... AND TRACK

For the motivated, or those less so, there are more tools available these days to track one’s health between doctor checkups. One example is wearable health monitors, often worn on the wrist 24/7.

A work colleague got an Amazon Halo and is obsessed. It tracks real time vitals like pulse, blood pressure, calories burned, blood oxygen levels.

It counts steps throughout the day, and records minutes at elevated heartbeat during exercise sessions. It somehow records sleep patterns, with duration of deep sleep and R.E.M. (when dreams are most prevalent). On-demand mobile dashboards serve as mission control of one’s inner workings.

Some devices can even register the tone of one’s voice throughout the day, as an indicator of stress. (Hello, Big Brother.)

ere are rankings compared to other users in one’s age group — being in a top percentile for the week can be an extra motivator. One user describes it as “a game I play with myself.” Still, there are worse vices then going OCD over personal health stats.

JUST LOOSEN YOUR BELT?

ere is a trend by some health plans to incentivize employees to record and provide such health metrics to get premium discounts, as healthy habits tend to lower plan expenses. Call it the gami cation of personal health data.

I talked to someone who had a heart attack once, so now preaches to pay attention to chest pain in the night. With essentially having a hospital-like vital sign monitor on all the time, alerts from a smart watch might save lives.

Yours Truly may be above average tness-wise, but my strategy is totally analog. No ddling with peak heart rate targets or online step competitions. If I don’t accomplish at least two or three days per week of bike commuting to work, then the response is to refocus for next week. Or if pants start feeling snug around the waist, it's time to refrain from the snacks for a while.

In this modern society, it can be counter-cultural to watch one’s health. For those with the desire, healthy habits are possible, and more tools are available for those who desire to get serious and take a proactive business-like management of their own well-being.

Some devices can even register the tone of one’s voice throughout the day, as an indicator of stress.

(Hello, Big Brother.)

Steve Spellman is a lifelong Columbia-area resident and political observer.

Plants for the

BY AMANDA LONG PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

Entrepreneur, environmentalist, philanthropist, and vegetarian are just a few words that could be used to describe Leigh Lockhart, founder and owner of the recently revamped Main Squeeze Juice Bar & Market.

“We’re a for-pro t business that cares and has values, but still makes money.”

Since the beginning, Leigh has felt ethically driven to promote fresh, plant-based eating in Mid-Missouri while focusing on sustainability and reducing waste.

“It has always been important to me to try to create a business that promoted good environmental choices while getting rid of some of the old wasteful practices,” she says.

Leigh said Main Squeeze was the rst restaurant in the city to compost its food waste and turn it into usable garden soil, introduce compostable to-go packaging, and one of the rst businesses to take part in a city initiative to help businesses make energy improvements.

“It’s hard to be this uptight about waste in today’s culture because it is literally everywhere,” says Leigh, describing her mild obsession with nding recyclable alternatives to all microplastics. “I do what I can myself – I know I’m nuts! But the aesthetics of all the small changes I’ve made have made my life a little shinier.”

A vegetarian since she was 17, Leigh wasn’t always as familiar with plant-based eating as she is today; nor was the plethora of food options available then.

“It’s a privilege to be able to choose your food – that’s the hill I will die on. I will not consume animals,” she says.

In 1996 Leigh was 26 and working at Murry’s, where her co-workers would taste-test her latest Mason jar creations of fresh-squeezed juices. “ ey actually helped me come up with all the original names,” Leigh says.

When Lakota Co ee’s crepe-maker vacated his spot in the front window, Leigh wooed owner, Skip DuCharme, with her delicious juices and opened her juice bar inside Lakota.

“Within a year this space became available, so I opened the café in 1997, and I’ve been here ever since. My goal was to keep it simple but make it taste really good,” Leigh says.

Main Squeeze’s rst menu was created with the help of Leigh’s dear friend and co-worker, Sheila Johnson, who she met through a mutual friend, Paul Sturtz, co-founder of RagTag.

“Sheila had tremendous culinary skill and originated some of the recipes that sustained us for years including 'the sauce that built Main Squeeze,' a.k.a. sesame ginger sauce,” says Leigh. “I hold on tight to these recipes, as I might actually make a Main Squeeze cookbook one day.”

In the early days, Leigh says the food menu at Main Squeeze was made-up vegetarian versions of dishes such as beans and rice and grilled cheese sandwiches, as she was nervous to introduce more unfamiliar meat-free options to Columbia. “Back then we used cookbooks with oily, greasy pages covered in handwritten notes.”

Main Squeeze also made colorful fruit smoothies like the Braveheart with banana, kale, pineapple, axseed, and coconut milk, while Purple Rain mixes apple, lemon, elderberry, and fresh-pressed juices. roughout the years, Leigh discovered that plant-based eating could be simple but delicious.

“I’m just trying to get more plants into people,” she says. “Transitioning to a plant-based diet opens you up to so many new kinds of foods such as vegan chicken which is made from vital wheat gluten extracted from our or soy protein.”

Main Squeeze's pandemic pivot was a successful shift to grab-and-go cuisine.

Just as the menu transitioned alongside Leigh’s own awareness of healthy vegetarian foods, so did the mainstream interest in and demand for the food and drink she was dishing out.

e later versions of the Main Squeeze menu o ered avorful dishes such as the wildly popular Buddha bowl with rice, tofu, broccoli, carrots, and sesame-ginger sauce, and Blue Zone, a Greek-inspired wrap packed with cucumber, bell pepper, olives, lettuce, tomato, onion, Feta, hummus, and lemon tahini.

Leigh says Main Squeeze became surprisingly popular over the years, with a devoted following that she never dreamed, which became evident in 2008 when the decision to consolidate her business debt had catastrophic repercussions including raised interest rates and a lowered credit score resulting in the inability to get a loan.

“I was in a tough spot, so I humbly wrote a letter requesting nancial help to a small base of loyal customers. Not only did they loan me the money I needed, which I paid back with interest, but the letter was somehow circulated around MU and suddenly, we got really busy. People really rallied,” Leigh says, as she wells up with tears. “I created something that people care enough about that they don’t want it to go away.”

After surviving the pandemic, like many restaurants, Leigh continued to struggle nding and retaining employees and realized it was time to make a change.

In March 2022 Main Squeeze made a shift in its business model moving from made-to-order to grab-and-go o ering a variety of plant-based, made-fresh-daily sandwiches, salads, wraps, sides, and bakery items in market cooler.

e new market freezer o ers frozen, housemade, plant-based meals for people who want to stock their freezer including Shepard’s pie, cheesy enchiladas, and seasonal soups such as borscht, chicken noodle, creamy potato, and curried butternut squash. “We also o er plant-based ice cream which people have been super pumped to see,” says Leigh.

Leigh added an expanded sustainability market featuring packaged, plant-based foods and drinks. “We sell the soy curls we use to make our chicken salad. e product is very barely processed and comes dehy-

drated. Once reconstituted in vegan chicken broth it tastes very similar to chicken.

“I also recommend this vegan egg product called 'Just Egg' that is made from mung beans and if you add a little black salt and nutritional yeast it makes it taste very 'eggy'.”

e market is stocked with sustainable lifestyle products such as reusable loofahs, package-free deodorant, laundry strips, wool dryer balls, and body butter bars, plus a curated selection of fun, upcycled items and products from local makers and artists - like vegan leather journals.

“I lost some customers but gained a whole new group of customers – people who aren’t looking for a dining experience, but organic, plant-based foods to-go and ways to make their daily lives more sustainable,” Leigh says.

"

I CREATED SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE CARE ENOUGH ABOUT THAT THEY DON ,T WANT IT TO GO AWAY."

More Than a Ride

OATS Transit fills essential need across Missouri.

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN PHOTOS BY LANA ELKUND

In 87 counties around Missouri, OATS

Transit buses, vans and shuttles crisscross the city streets, highways and rural roads, ve days each week, and 357 days per year.

Last year, OATS Transit provided 1 million rides across 11 million miles. For many of the riders who depend on it, the service that OATS provides is lifesaving.

“We average 4,200 trips a day, so we have a lot of people who depend on us,” says Jill Stedem, who is OATS Transit’s administrative director. “We provide transportation for dialysis which is typically three times each week for the rest of their lives. If they don’t have a way to get to those appointments, it is literally a life and death situation.”

A nonpro t specialized transportation provider, OATS provides much of its service to rural areas. Outside of city limits, in areas like Ashland, Centralia, and Hallsville, service is available to all riders. OATS provides transportation within Columbia to those 60 and older, and to individuals with disabilities.

“In Sedalia, we run three routes each day to the Tyson Foods plant,” Jill says. “ ere are also a lot of sheltered workshops where we take individuals to work, and we also take people to work at private businesses like McDonald’s, Walmart, and Hy-Vee.”

OAT Transit buses and minivans are all ADA accessible. Some vehicles can accommodate one, two, or three wheelchairs, while in St. Louis, some busses can accommodate up to ve wheelchairs at once.

“It depends on the area of the state and the service we provide there,” Jill says.

A

LONG HISTORY OF SERVICE

e oldest and largest rural transportation provider in the country, OATS has a deep history of serving Missouri residents. It all began in 1970, when a group of senior citizens began exploring transportation options for grocery trips, and other necessities. ey traveled to Washing ton D.C., where they met with legislators about funding, and they came home with plans to implement a grant they received.

JILL STEDEM

with local departments of mental health, agencies on aging, and other organizations around the state.

In some areas of the state, like Kirksville, Lee’s Summit, and Arnold, OATS is contracted to run city bus operations.

OATS also relies on funding from private funders, like funding from the Veterans United Foundation that pays for rides for Mid-Missouri veterans.

“If we don’t have the local match, we can’t provide service,” Jill says. “Each town or area of the state has di erent service based on the funding available. We wish we could take care of more people and o er more rides, but it depends on the funding sources available to make the rides and the frequency possible. We have to look at how we can provide the most bene t by using the funding as best we can.”

DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE

Behind the scenes, 560 employees work to make OATS Transit run smoothly. One hundred o ce sta work in 11 o ces across the state, including the home o ce in Columbia, while the remaining 460 are drivers assigned to a certain area, city or county.

Jill says many riders use OATS because they use a wheelchair or need extra assistance getting on and o the vehicle. OATS drivers provide that extra assistance that allows people to remain independent and stay active in their communities.

“We couldn’t do what we do without our amazing drivers,” Jill says. “I can’t say

enough about their dedication to the community and their willingness to help out the people in their communities. We are considered door to door service, and our drivers help people get out of their homes and into the places they are going.”

ACCESSING SERVICE

Routes are posted on the OATS website, and riders can call the number listed to access service in their community.

“If they haven’t ridden before we get their information and give them the information ahead of time so they know when to expect to get picked up,” Jill says.

While OATS aims to transport riders as quickly as possible, ride times depend on how many other riders are being transported at the same time.

“When you call to schedule, we try to get as close as we can to medical appointments so people aren’t waiting an extended period of time, but it is group travel so it may require a longer wait time, depending on who else is riding,” Jill says.

Fare is based on speci c areas, but the fee to ride is nominal in most OATS service areas. In Columbia, rides are $2 each way.

“For $4, you can go to the grocery store or a medical appointment for much cheaper than the cost of a taxi,” Jill says.

OATS TRANSIT HOME

888-875-6287 oatstransit.org

OFFICE

“We couldn’t do what we do without our amazing drivers. I can’t say enough about their dedication to the community and their willingness to help out the people in their communities.”

From the Inside, Out

An alternative approach to healthcare.

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN

Migraines? Lower back pain? Neck pain? Acid re ux or constipation? Believe it or not, there’s one possible solution for all of these common issues: Chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care is a specialization of spinal health and is focused on the wellbeing of the spine. People commonly associate a visit to the chiropractor with the typical complaints of neck and back pain, and while chiropractors are trained in helping patients nd relief from those conditions, chiropractors can do so much more.

“What it really, truly is about is allowing people to function at a better level from

the inside out, without drugs or surgery,” says Dr. Arminta Phelps with Achieve Balance Chiropractic. “Chiropractic focuses on the central nervous system, making sure the brain and body are communicating the way they need to so you can adapt to the stresses in your life more e ectively.” e nervous system is connected to everything in the body, says Dr. Ashley Emel with Compass Chiropractic & Wellness. Nerve routes run through the spine and between the vertebra, and compression or rotation in an area of a spinal segment can interfere with the functions controlled by that area, Ashley says.

“Removing those interferences can help everything work at its best,” Ashley says. “Keeping pressure o the nerves keeps everything functioning at its highest level.”

WHY CHIROPRACTIC CARE?

People choose to see a chiropractor for a variety of reasons. Some have su ered an injury or have had an accident, some have chronic health issues, some have migraines or chronic headaches, and some are seeking relief from lower back pain or discomfort. Some want correction of a speci c issue, and some want to develop or improve their overall health or maintain their joints.

“Getting adjusted for wellness care is keeping your body in its optimal position where you won’t be as prone to accidents or issues later,” Ashley says. “Most people’s end goal when they come in is to x the issue and then maintain the body in hopes of not reinjuring themselves or having a chronic issue later on.”

When the nervous system is functioning as it should, Arminta says patients can also have fewer colds and more robust immune function. Because each patient has di erent needs, goals, and circumstances, every new patient is evaluated so a care plan can be speci cally tailored to suit them

“When patients come in they will sit with one of our doctors and go through a series of questions about their medical history,” Arminta says. “We do an examination of the spine as well as x-rays and other tests to determine functions. en we have di erent recommendations based on how intensely injured or broken down that individual is.”

ere are a variety of chiropractic techniques, and they typically vary by practitioner. Some use a drop table, while others

use a tool called an activator or use di erent manual techniques speci c to their training. Ashley says some patients seek out a practitioner of a speci c technique, while others look for a practitioner with a certain specialty, like sports medicine, pregnant women, or infants.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR MOTHERS AND BABIES

Both Ashley and Arminta care for pregnant women as well as infants as young as one day old. Contrary to what some may think, women can, in fact, have a chiropractic adjustment while pregnant.

“I see a lot of women who come for pregnancy care to keep nice and healthy through labor and delivery,” Arminta says. “It makes it easier to bounce back after pregnancy and delivery.”

Ashley says chiropractic care can also reduce the length of labor and ease delivery.

Chiropractic care has many bene ts for kids and babies as well, although the techniques used for kids are di erent than for adults. When it comes to babies, Arminta says that chiropractic care can result in

people to function at a better level from the inside, out, without drugs or surgery.”

— DR. ARMINTA PHELPS

— DR. ASHELY

fewer ear infections and less colic, and can also help ease digestive issues.

A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO HEALTHCARE

Many people aren’t aware that chiropractic care can be used as an alternative to a primary health physician. Arminta says that those who use chiropractic in place of traditional Western medicine approach their health from a di erent perspective.

“We typically think about taking care of health from the outside in, instead of from the inside out,” Arminta says. “A lot of healthcare in our world is reactive, which makes it sick care and not healthcare. We are changing the conversation to being proactive and keeping the system healthy so it doesn’t get sick. It’s a di erent way and mentality.”

Arminta cites a study from the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological erapeutics, which followed 75,000 individuals over the course of seven years. ose who were under the care of a chiroprac-

tor during that time had 60 percent fewer hospital admissions, 85 percent less in pharmaceutical costs, 62 percent fewer outpatient surgeries, and 59 percent fewer days in the hospital than those not receiving chiropractic care.

At the same time, chiropractors can and do work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals to accommodate a patient’s needs.

“Maybe we provide a referral to a physical therapist or a referral to an MD for a muscle relaxer,” Ashley says. “We are great at working with other providers.”

While Ashley says that chiropractic care is great for anybody at any age, there are some medical conditions and situations where caution is warranted.

“Chiropractic should not be used in the area where you've had a spinal fusion because you can’t be adjusted in that area,” Ashley says. “ ere are some genetic disorders or some injuries that chiropractic may not be great for. You might need something else rst, and then you might be able to swing back to a chiropractor.”

“Most people’s end goal when they come in is to fix the issue and then maintain the body in hopes of not reinjuring themselves or having a chronic issue later on.”

EMEL

The University of Missouri student-run florist specializing in cutting-edge design making your wedding or special event a spectacular affair.

Our special events division focuses on weddings, receptions, large-scale events, and more. From the Mizzou campus to beyond the City of Columbia, we bring inspirations to life, one bloom at a time.

Photography by Kelsi Kliethermes Photography

It’s Time to take the Floor

Pelvic floor therapy can help women and men take back control of their health and get back in step with their lives.

BY MICHELLE TERHUNE

IIt’s somewhat ironic that women can put their feet into the stirrups and allow their gynecologist to poke, prod, and swab during an exam but they are too embarrassed to ask questions about issues they may be experiencing “down there.”

Before you stop reading, men, you’re guilty of it, too. Men endure a digital rectal exam and cough on command during the hernia exam, but shy away from asking their doctor questions about problems they’re having.

Embarrassment and fear aren’t the only things keeping people from talking to their doctor about issues involving their nether regions. Accepting that those issues are just “natural” and something you have to live with are just as common. Just ask Julie Starr. A nurse practitioner with Women’s Health Associates in Columbia, she specializes in treating women with pelvic oor disorders.

e fact is that if you’re having pelvic or lower abdominal pain, sexual dysfunction, or bladder or rectal issues, it’s time to talk turkey with your doctor. You may be one of the millions of adults with a pelvic oor disorder (PFD).

A BRIEF LESSON IN ANATOMY

Lesson one: Women and men both have pelvic oors. e pelvic oor comprises a small group of muscles with a very large job to do. ey stretch from the pubic bone to the tailbone holding the pelvic organs in place. at includes the bladder and rectum, the uterus in women, and the prostate in men. If the pelvic

“Quality of life is what it comes down to. It’s not an emergency. But if you wake up 10 times a night to go to the bathroom or if you have bladder control problems, it affects your life.”

— Julie Starr, nurse practitioner

oor doesn’t have proper support, the normal functions of all those parts are a ected.

e muscles may be too tight or aren’t tight enough. e key is to learn how to use those muscles correctly, relieving stress if they’re too tense, and strengthening those that are too weak.

PFDS ARE COMMON Pelvic oor disorders aren’t rare. e statistics vary from source to source, but all indicate how common they are. Among them are that 30 percent of women don’t properly contract their pelvic oor muscles. One in ve people will experience PFD in their lifetime. And 25 percent of women over age 20 have PFDs—including 50 percent of women over age 55. Considering how common they are, why does the topic seem to be taboo for many people?

Perhaps it’s the terminology. “Rectum,” “urine,” “stool,” “vagina,” “constipation,” “erection” and “penis” can be uncomfortable words to utter aloud. Maybe it’s disclosing the subject at all, even to a medical professional, out of embarrassment or a sense of hopelessness.

“All the symptoms we treat are really embarrassing for women to talk about,” Julie says. “Women don’t want to let their doctor know oftentimes that they leak urine. A lot of times, women just normalize urinary incontinence. ey think, ‘Well, I’ve had a baby, so I’m going to leak a little urine sometimes,’ so they don’t seek treatment right away because they think that there’s nothing that can be done.”

PFDs are common because the causes are common. Trauma to the pelvis, su ered in a car accident or fall, can lead to PFD. So can weight gain, aging muscles, pregnancy, vaginal delivery, or obesity, as well as any type of pelvic or lower abdominal surgery. Straining while lifting weights, lifting kids, lifting items at work, or lifting anything repeatedly can lead to PFD. Even chronic coughing, common among those su ering from allergies or asthma, can cause the condition.

PFD is typical in men who have had prostate surgery because some of the pelvic oor muscles are removed with the prostate during the procedure. And those with erectile

dysfunction might discover it’s due to inadequate blood supply caused by overly tight pelvic oor muscles.

Many women su er from vaginal prolapse, especially as they age. It may happen due to a weakening of the pelvic oor muscles, common after di cult vaginal deliveries, delivering larger babies, or multiple deliveries. It may also occur if anything held in place by this set of muscles shifts or is removed, such as in the absence of the uterus after a hysterectomy.

But PFD isn’t just reserved for women who are pregnant, have had children, or older women. Julie says she also treats young women who have never been pregnant. ey su er from pelvic pain, bladder or stool leakage or constipation, or pain with sexual intercourse. eir symptoms are often related to pelvic muscles that are too tense or too weak.

QUALITY-OF-LIFE ISSUE

PFD doesn’t cause any fatal conditions, but it could herald the end of a great quality of life.

“Quality of life is what is comes down to,” says Julie. “It’s not an emergency. But if you wake up 10 times a night to go to the bathroom or if you have bladder control problems, it a ects your life.”

For example, Julie says she knows about women who won’t get in a car and travel because they’re afraid of having an accident in someone’s car. ey won’t spend the night with someone because they don’t want to dispose of pads in someone else’s trash. And they won’t go to a wedding because they aren’t going to go out and be on the dance oor.

“It’s oftentimes keeping them from doing what they want to do,” Julie says. “And they aren’t going to tell their daughter or granddaughter why. It can lead to isola-

tion and depression all because they don’t think there’s something they can do about it or don’t want to talk about it because they’re embarrassed.”

But the fact is, no one should stop living their life because of a pelvic oor disorder.

THERAPY IS HOPE

Improving quality of life begins with pelvic oor therapy. And the sooner a patient begins to address the problem through therapy, the better.

“Honestly, the sooner a woman seeks treatment for their bladder or bowel control problems, or their prolapse problems, and even their pelvic pain, they’re going to be much more likely to have a successful outcome with therapy,” Julie says.

For Julie’s patients, that therapy begins with a thorough review of their medical history, followed by a pelvic exam. She takes measurements, looks for weaknesses, and applies gentle pressure to determine where a patient might be experiencing pain or see if the patient can properly contract their pelvic oor muscles. Once she diagnoses the speci c issue, she discusses treatment options with the patient.

Kegel exercises are a go-to treatment. Done correctly, they’re designed to strengthen the pelvic oor muscles. ere are multiple sources to instruct people how to do Kegels, but pelvic oor therapy helps ensure whether the exercises are done correctly and to con rm whether patients should be doing the exercises. If the problem is tight muscles, Kegels can do signi cant harm. ere are other exercises that will relax them instead.

Julie employs biofeedback therapy. Sensors measure muscle activity, and a monitor illustrates electrical activity. at way, if patients think they’re contracting or relaxing muscles in a target area, such as

the abdomen, vagina, or rectum, the monitor will show whether the patients are doing it correctly. is helps with muscle coordination and retraining, which is important because most people think they’re moving the right muscles when doing Kegels, for example, but they actually aren’t.

“With visual aids and auditory clues, we can help them do a very e cient contraction of their pelvic oor muscles,” Julie says. ere are surgical interventions for vaginal prolapse, but Julie says many women want to avoid it. She treats many of them by inserting a pessary into the vagina. It’s a ring-shaped silicone device that pushes against the vagina wall and the urethra to hold them in place. If placed correctly, the patient doesn’t feel the ring, but will be relieved of the symptoms of prolapse.

As a nurse practitioner, Julie often refers patients to a physical therapist who can help them with muscle strengthening for those with weak muscles and downtraining for those with overactive pelvic oor muscles. Boone erapy Services, Mizzou erapy Services, and Truman Veteran’s Health Care erapy Services all provide pelvic oor physical therapy for men and women.

IT’S TIME TO DANCE

If something isn’t working right “down there,” let your doctor know. Unless you’ve just put o going to the bathroom too long, peeing a little when you laugh or lift isn’t normal. It’s a medical condition that can be helped through diagnosis and pelvic oor therapy. And that can send you back out to the dance oor, footloose and symptom free.

For more information about PFDs, visit VoicesForPFD.org.

Boom THE BIG

Boom

Aging in place programs stave off higher-cost options.

BY JODIE JACKSON JR.

Not long after the start of the 21st century, social service executives, policymakers, and healthcare o cials began routinely using the word “tsunami” to describe an impending in ux of older Americans into their systems.

at tsunami and a higher — if not urgent — demand for services that range from healthcare and housing to transportation and other community support is now in progress, says Patrick Lee, executive director at Services for Independent Living in Columbia. SIL provides myriad services to help seniors stay in their homes for as long as possible, a strategy known as aging-in-place.

“ e baby boomers in general — they are the tsunami,” Patrick says, referring to the generation of people born from 1946 to 1964 when there was a marked increase in the postWorld War II birthrate. at age demographic now ranges from around age 58 to age 76, or an average of just over 65.

“ e baby boomers are going to have the largest number of people over age 80 than any preceding generation,” he adds.

By 2030, the number of Missourians ages 60-plus will be statistically equal to the number of youth ages 20 and under for the rst time in history. A November 2022 state budget report from the Missouri Association of Area Agencies on Aging, or ma4, also highlights the rapidly aging population, noting “exponential growth” that is ushering Missouri through “a historic demographic shift.”

Where does Columbia and Boone County t into the aging demographics picture? In 2021, Boone County’s population was 185,840, an increase of 22,632 people, or a 9.1 percent increase since 2010. e largest growth among age groups was residents 65 and older, accounting for 43 percent of the increase. As a demographic, the 65-and-older age group increased by almost 65 percent from 2010 to 2021. (In actual numbers, that age group had an estimated population of 15,139 in 2010, growing to 24,910 in 2021.)*

A journey through the census numbers and data that tell the story of an aging population might at rst seem eye-glazing to those who are not directly a ected by aging or as a caretaker, but the numbers have signi cant rami cations on state and local budgets and policy decisions. e November state budget report points out that the average cost (as of 2021) to Medicaid for one year in a long-term care facility (nursing home or skilled nursing facility) is around $42,000, while the annual cost for community-based services to keep one senior safely in their home — also known as aging in place — is about $12,000. Among the other bene ts of aging in place are wellness classes aimed at preventing falls, which can lead to added costly medical bills.

Five years ago, Missouri had just over 500 skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, with about two-thirds of the beds lled. Columbia has a plethora of assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care facilities, in addition to other senior living options.

“What I’m worried about is capacity” for care in skilled nursing facilities and other health systems, Patrick says. “I don’t see any way that capacity can

be developed over the next 20 years.” He says one of the best options now and in the future is “keeping older Americans in their homes as long as possible” with aging in place programs.

SIL is one of 22 centers for independent living in Missouri, created by 1973 federal legislation that earmarked funds for organizations that would provide

“None of our services cost. We don’t charge for anything we do,” Patrick says. SIL has contracts to receive reimbursement from Medicaid for some services, but they don’t cost anything for the recipient.

baby boomers are going to

Perhaps one of SIL’s most valuable services is as an information referral resource, acting as a liaison with other community programs and services for either aging-in-place or someone seeking to connect with a skilled nursing facility. Patrick says SIL’s service liaison, Kim Krause, can help with those questions. She can be reached at 874-1646 or via SIL’s website at www.silcolumbia.org.

“We will assess and determine if it’s something we can help with,” Patrick says. “If it’s something we cannot provide, we’ll refer them. Some stu just isn’t in our wheelhouse.”

But that doesn’t stop Patrick and his sta from helping make connections.

“Columbia is rich with nonpro t service agencies,” he explains. “I just don’t think people know.”

- PATRICK LEE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SERVICES FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING

services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Among the SIL programs in Columbia is Senior Connect, which is designed speci cally for aging in place. Funded by the Heart of Missouri United Way, Senior Connect provides volunteers for seniors. It was originally coordinated by the Boone County Council on Aging, which merged with SIL in 2014.

One of those agencies is Aging Best, formerly known as Central Missouri Area Agency on Aging, which serves adults who are aging and adults with disabilities. e primary focus of their supportive services is to “assist aging adults to remain independent and in the homes of their choice for as long as they choose.” Aging Best programs and services include events and senior activity and meal centers; support services; a longterm care ombudsman program to help navigate senior living options; connection with volunteer opportunities for seniors and with seniors; and spotting scams and preventing fraud.

A report on the Aging Best website summarizes the challenges of aging-inplace initiatives.

“The

have the largest number of people over age 80 than any preceding generation.”

Additional services for seniors provided by

SIL include:

• Distribution of donated supplies, such as Depends undergarments, that are provided at no cost to aging-in-place consumers.

• Free transportation, including for seniors who use powerchairs or wheelchairs. Through a contract with Columbia Housing Authority, SIL provides free transportation several times a week for residents of Oak and Paquin Towers. There’s also a program that provides free transportation for veterans and their spouses that is funded by the Veterans United Foundation.

• Case management, where a case manager visits the participating senior a couple of times each month.

• Home modifications for small home repairs, and for installing ramps or grab bars, using community grant funds or a state grant program that allows up to $5,000 per project. Both of those grant-funded programs require the recipient to have an income at or below 80 percent of the federal poverty level, and additional residency and age requirements may apply. (The state grant program is an example of where collaboration with Aging Best can come into play. For example, if the $5,000 limit does not cover the entire cost of installing a ramp and a chair lift, Aging Best can use funds to provide the additional investment.)

• A Medicaid-supported aid can be available for nonmedical services, from light housekeeping to fixing meals and assisting with bathing. The aids will also assess the need for equipment or additional services that SIL can provide or make referrals for.

• Donations of durable medical equipment.

“ e number of older adults with limited options, xed incomes, and nancial challenges exacerbated by historic in ation is also increasing,” the report states, noting that the agencies on aging are also experiencing “soaring costs, massive loss of volunteers, and worker shortages” that create even greater challenges.

In the end, though, the metric that matters most is funding. SIL receives only about 4 percent of its funding from private donations. e rest comes from federal, state, and local sources. Aging Best is heavily supported by state funding, which has not kept pace with the increased demand for services. at’s the conclusion of the November 22 Missouri Budget Project report on behalf of the Missouri Association of Area Agencies on Aging and the Missouri Council on Aging.

e report states, “Missouri does not adequately fund services for older adults and people living with disabilities, particularly critical wrap-around services targeted toward” aging-in-place initiatives “that are designed to prevent and delay the need for much more costly institutional care.

Time and again, aging-in-place program administrators, including Patrick, point to a 40 percent cut to community-based programs in 2018 — from $34.8 million in 2017 to $20.4 million in 2018 — that still has not been restored. In fact, the 2022 state budget allocated $20.3 million for those programs. e result is that there are a multitude of unmet needs among seniors and individuals with disabilities. Patrick concedes that there are a lot of funding requests that require tough decisions in the state legislature and the governor’s o ce.

“ ere’s a lot of hands out for that money. I think we’ll all agree on that,” he says. “But for us, our population is generally the most vulnerable. It seems to me that those folks are the ones who need the most advocacy. Somebody’s got to step up for them.”

*Source: American Community Survey, a database from the U.S. Census Bureau, is updated annually and is designed to help local officials, community leaders, and businesses understand the changes taking place in their regions and communities.

COMO!

Are you ready to step up?

Are you ready to step

As a member of the Columbia Walk to End Alzheimer’s Planning Committee, you join a dedicated group of individuals who are passionate about the cause and committed to the success of Walk to End Alzheimer’s and a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementias. It’s because of volunteers like you that Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to fight the disease.

If you are interested in participating in the 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s as a committee member, please contact Chris Cottle at ccottle@alz.org

Working

75 MORE PEOPLE, MORE VOICES

Columbia’s 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s breaks fundraising and participation goals.

THE FORM AND FUNCTION OF GOOD HEALTH

Functional nutritional therapy is finding all the pieces of the chronic health condition puzzle and helping clients put them together to achieve better outcomes.

80

ROMANCE BLOOMS AT LA TIKITA

Columbia’s newest Mexicanthemed tiki bar, La Tikita, is the perfect night out for both lovers and tequila-lovers.

What’s your COMO?

DAVID NIVENS

What is your go to place to take a visitor in Columbia?

It really depends on the visitor and what their interests are. That’s the great thing about Columbia is that there are so many great and diverse options! Top two though are probably a Mizzou football or basketball game and downtown for food and entertainment.

What’s your fave past time in Columbia?

Attending Mizzou sporting events.

What do you think is Columbia’s best kept secret?

The great lineup of local and national music acts that come through Columbia.

How would you describe Columbia in one word?

Home.

David Nivens is the owner of Midwest Computech in Columbia.

wanted to bring this style of tness to the area — opened Blush Boot Camp in Columbia during April 2022. “Empowering women through tness is our goal. We o er speci cally designed 50-minute HIIT sessions, balance meetings, health coaching, and nutrition, with free babysitting (when available) to our members,” says Rebecca Patton, general manager. e gym o ers women a regimen of results-driven workouts, free nutritional support, free babysitting, free mindset coaching, and a sense of sisterhood, according to its website.

3709 S PROVIDENCE RD 573-239-6228

BLUSHBOOTCAMP.COM

Koda’s Fit Kitchen

After online orders starting coming in October 2022, Koda’s Fit Kitchen began delivering chef-prepared, healthy meals to people’s homes, o ces, and workplaces. Owner Dakota Owens says, “In a short period of time we have become known for creating healthy, balanced meals without any sacri ce to avor. As far as our bestselling entree/fan favorite, the Cheeseburger Bowl has become a staple that our customers order week after week.” Fun fact about Dakota — she is the daughter of Mary and Norton Evans, the founders/ owners of the beloved former 63 Diner. Do not go looking for a storefront — Koda’s Fit Kitchen is a 10,000-square-foot (about twice the area of a basketball court) commercially licensed and inspected kitchen on the outskirts of Columbia. Customers order online each week, and those orders are then delivered to their homes/ o ces. Calling herself a “second-generation” chef, Dakota says, “At 6 years old, I vividly remember working alongside my dad in the kitchen who taught me how to properly season a steak/cook it to perfect temp, and in the dining room alongside my mom seating and counting change

back to customers.” Dakota combined her two passions of food and helping others thrive to create Koda’s. She adds, “I know rsthand that when we feel good, we do good, and it starts with proper nutrition and nourishing our bodies well.”

(573) 880-8884

KODASFITKITCHEN.COM

BLUSH Boot Camp

Originally started in the Kansas City area, BLUSH Boot Camp is quickly growing and franchising in surrounding states. DC Endeavors LLC, owned by Doug and Chris Newland — a father/son duo who

CycleBar Columbia

Opening the last week of December, CycleBar is happy to announce it is up and running in Columbia. CycleBar is a music-driven, instructor-led, cardio cycling class that delivers a fun but low-impact workout. Whether you are an indoor cycling pro or entirely new to the experience, CycleBar o ers energizing rides tailored to all tness levels. Between the pumped-up music, the lights, and the motivational instructors, you are sure to leave feeling the serotonin. While there, you are encouraged to leave everything at the door and only focus on yourself for 45 minutes. With a variety of six di erent classes — Classic, Performance, Connect, Empower, Xpress, and Foundation — there is something for everyone. As a bonus, at the end of every ride, CycleBar will send you an email with your performance stats and of course, the playlist from the class. Wanting to make the experience as easy as possible for you, CycleBar provides your cycling shoes, towels, and lockers, and your rst ride is free.

503 E. NIFONG BLVD., SUITE J 573-447-6419

CYCLEBAR.COM

Briefly in the News

EDUCATION

Columbia Independent School Board of Trustees Approves Campus Redesign Plan

e CIS Board of Trustees recently approved a campus redesign plan that will add an approximately 27,000 squarefoot upper school building for grades 9-12 and include renovations to its existing building. A groundbreaking ceremony for the project was held on November 17, and the new upper school building will open in Fall 2024. Currently, all students in Junior Kindergarten through 12th grade are in the same building. e new upper school building will connect to the current building but will o er a separate space dedicated to the needs of students in grades 9-12, including spaces for collaborative and individual learning. By relocating to the upper school, CIS can create spaces in the current building for a third section of each lower school grade and an early childhood center that includes a program for three-year-old students. “At enrollment of 400 students, we are out of classroom, activity and administrative space in our current building,” says CIS Head of School Bridgid Kinney. “In order to continue o ering the high level of individualized instruction for which we are known, we must add more physical space to our campus. I’m thrilled that our board of trustees and generous donors are making expansion and renovation

possible.” Discussions regarding a potential expansion began in 2020 after the acquisition of a 2.5-acre tract located to the northwest of the current campus. e acquisition was facilitated by a gift from CIS parent and local business owner Sara Potter eld.

CELEBRATION

City of Columbia Finance Department Receives Excellence in Financial Reporting certificate

e City of Columbia Finance department has received the Government Finance O cers Association’s Excellence in Financial Reporting certi cate for its annual comprehensive nancial report for the scal year 2021. e report was judged by a panel and met the program's standards, which include demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its nancial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report. is certi cate is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and nancial reporting. " e City’s Finance department has worked diligently to ensure that the City complies with all accounting requirements established by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB)," Director of Finance Matthew Lue said. " is award represents a signi cant accomplishment by the Finance department and ensures that we are being transparent about the sources and uses of the City’s nancial resources."

CELEBRATION

Renew Missouri Celebrates State’s New Efficiency Ranking

Renew Missouri, a 501(c)(3) focusing on clean energy policy and accessibility to clean energy for all Missouri, is always eager to see the American Council for an Energy E ciency Economy (ACEEE)

State Scorecard on Energy E ciency and how the Show-Me State is doing on reducing the demand for power. is year, Missouri ranks 29th after making a signi cant leap ahead from previous lists. Ten years ago, Missouri ranked 44th on this list. Five years ago, our state edged up to 38th. Looking at moving into the Top irty, Executive Director James Owen cites Missouri’s 2009 groundbreaking law that incentivizes energy e ciency, reducing the need to generate more power. “ e Missouri Energy E ciency Investment Act (MEEIA) has revolutionized reducing energy demand over the past decade,” says Owen. “Renew Missouri works tirelessly to advocate for MEEIA programs before the Public Service Commission despite the opposition of state bureaucrats.” MEEIA allows investor-owned utilities to recover lost earnings from energy e ciency programs. Customers still save money but the real bene t results from less electricity production. From 2013-2019 alone, Energy Missouri’s energy e ciency portfolio resulted in 900 million kWh saved. e equivalent of over 142,000 cars taken o the road in reduced emissions and $47.3 million in bene ts to customers.

GIVING BACK

To help meet the dental health needs of children and adults, Delta Dental of Missouri – the state’s leading dental bene ts provider – recently awarded $35,000 in oral health grant funding to two Columbia-area organizations in support of oral health initiatives and educational programming. is funding completes the second cycle of the non-pro t company’s annual mission giving e orts, which provided a total of $730,931 to 22 organizations in Missouri and in South Carolina, where it also does business. During cycle one earlier this year, Delta Dental of

Missouri awarded $481,327 in grants to 16 organizations for a combined total of more than $1.2 million in oral health grants for 2022. e oral health grants most recently awarded in Columbia include Curators of the University of Missouri – Missouri Kidney Program, which received $25,000 to help fund dental care and transportation assistance for patients before and after transplants and for patients receiving dialysis treatment; and Central Missouri Community Action, which received $10,000 to provide dental treatment for families with low incomes in Central Missouri.

COMMUNITY

City Drops Requirement on Logoed Trash Bags, Effective

Immediately

At the December 5th Columbia City Council meeting, the Council approved the Solid Waste Utility’s proposed ordinance amendment eliminating the required use of o cial City-provided logoed refuse bags for residential curbside collections as well as the provision that the City provide trash bags. E ective immediately, Solid Waste residential curbside customers are permitted to place their household refuse in any trash bag for curbside collection. All trash to be collected must be in a bag, and all bags to be collected must weigh no more than 50 pounds. Solid Waste will continue to provide vouchers that can be exchanged for trash bags until the current stock of bags is depleted. Solid Waste expects vouchers will be mailed in January, and customers will be able to redeem them at the same local participating distributors. ere is no change to the recycling program. Customers will continue to place mixed containers (aluminum cans, tin cans, glass, and plastic) in blue bags. Mixed bers (paper and cardboard) can be bundled in a box or a paper bag. is change comes after considerable public engagement and feedback. e Solid Waste Utility thanks the community for their involvement and participation in this process.

Delta Dental of Missouri Awards $35,000 in Oral Health Grants to Two Columbia-Area Organizations

MATT FREDERIKSENENGLAND

e University of Missouri Health Care has named Matt Frederiksen-England chief compliance o cer after a nationwide search. Matt joined the MU Health Care team in October from Billings Clinic health system in Montana where he served as chief compliance o cer and integrity o cer. Prior to serving at Billings Clinic, he served as chief compliance and privacy o cer at Banner Wyoming Medical Center, as well as in compliance roles at Acadia Healthcare and IASIS Healthcare. Matt holds a doctoral degree in health care administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. He is certi ed in health care, privacy, and research compliance. He will succeed Julia Settles, MD, JD, who has served as interim chief compliance o cer since December; she will resume her role as director of risk and regulatory a airs.

DOROTHY YEAGER

OATS Transit’s Executive Director Dorothy Yeager was honored this week for 35 years of service with the company. OATS Transit is a not-for-pro t corporation that has provided public transportation in Missouri since 1971. e company is headquartered in Columbia MO and serves 87 counties in the state. Dorothy Yeager

started at OATS in 1987 as Communications Assistant and was promoted throughout her tenure. She held the positions of Administrative Services Director and Assistant Executive Director, before being appointed as Executive Director in July 2012. She has an associate degree in Communications from State Fair Community College and a bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri. Dorothy serves on the board of the Missouri Public Transit Association and the Bus Coalition is a state delegate for the Community Transportation Association of America, a member of the Society for Human Resource Managers, and a Certi ed Community Transit Manager.

BJ SEIDEL

Local Columbia artist, BJ Seidel, of Fire y Art, has jumped into the world of e-commerce selling her a ordable, original paintings, drawings, and décor on her website. She has been doing an amazing job creating beautiful artwork, and customers have been buying her artwork nationwide ranging from locally in Missouri, and all the way to Illinois, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, and beyond!

COLUMBIA BOARD OF REALTORS

Congratulations to Columbia Board of Realtors 2022 Award Winners:

MIKE CORNELIUS Coil Construction is pleased to announce a new chief nancial o cer, Mike Cornelius. After 18 years working at Lear eld in Je erson City, most recently as its nance director, Mike brings a wealth of expertise to Coil. In his new role at Coil, Mike works with the nance and accounting team. His focus is on preparing the company and the team for future growth. Mike holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business/ nance from the University of MissouriColumbia. Outside of Coil, he volunteers with the children’s ministry at e Crossing Church and with Meals on Wheels in Columbia.

• Joel Radman AwardNatalie Wier | EXP Realty

• Denny Douglas Community Service Award Winner - Matt Beckett | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Vision RE

• REALTOR® Salesperson of the Year Award Winner - Shannon Drewing | House of Brokers Realty

• REALTOR® of the Year Award Winner -Dani Little | Columbia Real Estate

ank you for your service to your community and for your accomplishments within the REALTOR® Association!

FREDERIKSENENGLAND LITTLE

DREWING

WIER

BECKETT

CORNELIUS

MORE PEOPLE, MORE VOICES

Columbia’s 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s breaks fundraising and participation goals.

BY CANDICE BALL | PHOTOS BY CHRIS PADGETT

Alzheimer’s takes a profound toll on everyone it touches, especially its victims, their loved ones, and their caretakers.

More than six million Americans are living with the disease, and deaths have doubled during the past 20 years. One in three senior citizens dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. ose are just a few of the reasons why the team at Columbia’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s are so devoted to the cause. In particular, Chris Cottle, Walk Manager at Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Missouri Chapter, keeps the desire for advocacy close to his heart.

“I got into this because my father, Brian, was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at the age of 52,” Chris says. “He passed away ve years later at the age of 57.”

Chris adds, “I started volunteering just on the walk committee back in 2012, Two years later, I became the event chair for the Columbia walk, and I served in that role for the next four or ve years, and then I was asked to come on sta in 2019 as the walk manager. I got into this organically, as it were, but it was a hard deal for me personally.”

e Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s involves more than 600 communities throughout the country, and it’s the biggest fundraising organization for care, support, and research that exists worldwide.

“As we know more and more about the brain, and Alzheimer’s, and what that is, and the better we get at identifying these factors the more we realize this has kind of been a bigger problem than maybe we knew about,” Chris said.

is year’s local Walk to End Alzheimer’s was held in October at Faurot Field, and it was a record-breaking event, both in terms of the turnout and the funds raised.

“It was a group e ort,” Chris says. “It’s a team e ort to pull something like that o .” eir team’s goal was to raise $150,000, and they raised nearly $192,000. Eight hundred people and 81 teams participated.

In his current role with the organization, Chris said he has to be a jack of all trades, that his days are always di erent, and that he’s learned to thrive on chaos.

He also said that his goal is to make the cause visible, to nd new ways to be of service, and to create a meaningful experience for everyone who participates in the event. He loves details, what he does, and the Columbia community’s willingness to rally around an important cause.

“I enjoy that every day is di erent,” Chris says. “I’m either spending time with emails, or researching partnership opportunities with local businesses, or talking with your local leaders or representatives, or going to an awareness event, or speaking at a rotary club, or trying to sketch out a poster for an upcoming event or a walk, and then there’s volunteer management, and then there’s trying to foster the strength of the people who want to devote the time to help out our cause, and put them in a position that they feel comfortable with.”

Chris says the best part of his job is interacting with people on a daily basis.

His mission is to make the cause visible and accessible, and to nd more ways to be of service to people who need those resources. He goes into every day thinking about how he can help the organization thrive, and to raise awareness about the needs that still exist. He wants the community to know that the mission is to be there when you need them, and to provide a lifeline.

“Your struggle is what makes you who you are, and what you do today,” Chris says. “As long as you nd a lesson in the hard times, then it’s worth something important.”

To get involved with volunteering or fundraising, contact:

Chris Cottle

ccottle@alz.org act.alz.org 573-673-4292

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY

is Restoration Eye Care’s grassroots campaign to eradicate blindness in Missouri.

Dr. McGarity and Dr. Clarke are dedicated to providing zero-cost cataract surgery for patients whom:

• Reside within the state of Missouri but do not have to be U.S. Citizens.

• Have income less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level or

• Have a high deductible health insurance plan that is 10% or more of household income

Dr. Adam Clarke M.D.

• Cataract and refractive surgeon

• LASIK surgeon

• Glaucoma Specialist

• Ocular Surface Health specialist

• Mid Missouri’s Corneal Collagen Cross-linking specialist

• ’Focus on Community’ Surgeon

Dr. Timothy McGarity M.D. OWNER

• Cataract and refractive surgeon

• LASIK surgeon

• Glaucoma Specialist

• Blepharoplasty surgeon

• Ocular Surface Health Specialist

• ‘Focus on Community’ Founder and surgeon

Dr. Josia Leipholtz O.D.

• Glaucoma Specialist

• Ocular Surface Health specialist

• Preoperative and Postoperative Care

• VES (Verterans Evaluation Services) provider

• LHI (Veterans services ) Provider

You’ve Got a Friend in Me

Playing 4 Hope spreads hope and encouragement by building friendships between MU athletes and children’s hospital patients.

BY SAM BARRETT

Athletes are remembered for their talent and their power to inspire and encourage others. Playing 4 Hope — a local. nonpro t organization — is taking advantage of the ability of MU athletes to pass on hope and encouragement to MU Children’s Hospital patients.

HOW IT STARTED

Playing 4 Hope was founded in 2016 by Haley Ennis. During her time as a soccer player, Haley knew the feeling of playing with someone in mind and the encouragement it gave her, as well as the hope it gave to others.

Haley’s story, chronicled at Playing4Hope. org, explains that throughout high school, Haley dedicated her games to her coach’s wife who died away during Haley’s freshman year. roughout college Haley dedicated her games to her grandmother,

Mama, who was diagnosed with lung cancer. When Mama died in October 2016, Haley and the board created a plan to grow Playing 4 Hope in her grandmother’s name.

HOW IT WORKS

Playing 4 Hope was founded based on relationships and encouraging others who need it most. e organization works to build relationships between patients and athletes. Playing 4 Hope doesn’t discriminate when it comes to which MU athlete or patient is selected. Patients could be new to the hospital or have been a patient for years. Athletes come from all sports.

“We don’t discriminate in any shape or form, so it’s really any patient in need,” Executive Director Brian omas says. “ at can encompass illness, disability, disease; those patients could be in there one day, they could be in there for years —

Playing 4 Hope

MISSION

Playing 4 Hope is a nonprofit organization that provides an outlet of hope to children who are in the hospital due to disability, illness, or disease and to underserved children in our area’s grade schools. We believe that a hopeful child can heal more quickly

Playing 4 Hope focuses on giving back to both the children and the community they live in. By connecting a child with a collegiate athlete from the community, we lay the foundation for a relationship that is built on inspiration. Together with hope, they both can win. FOUNDED 2016 BOARD

• Brian Thomas, Executive Director/ President

• Dustin Armstrong, Vice President

• Haley Ennis, Founder and Secretary

• Ariess Gharabagi, Treasurer

• Bri Thomas, Social Media and Marketing

• Andrew Behrmann, Board Member

obviously some are more impactful than others — but every child who’s in there, going through a di cult time needs that.”

A lot goes into the patient selection, including a kind-of “get to know me” form, although Brian says sta at Playing 4 Hope is not involved in the initial selection process.

“Health Services decides who that person is, so we don’t actually go in and do the deciding. We have a great group of ladies at the hospital who makes that decision beforehand,” he explains. “When we do [make the decision] we have them ll out like a little form, ask them what’s their favorite sport, favorite hobby, foods. at way the athletes have a little something they know about the child before they walk in the room.”

From there, the relationship is allowed to ourish at its own time and pace.

“We let the guys visit. We kind-of let them take over. We realize that these athletes, when they get into the room, whether it’s the football players, gymnastics — more recently basketball players — they’re really good at having conversations. It doesn’t matter what age, whether they’re a 3-yearold or 18, they’re great at having conversations. ey’re great at being leaders, really connecting with the kids and that’s what we love to see,” Brian says.

Encouraging words and visits can lead to a strong relationship between patient

and athlete, but Playing 4 Hope wants patients to feel the connection outside of the hospital and on the eld as well.

at is why patients are given a wristband to match an athlete’s. Patients can see their friend wearing the matching wristband during a game and know that the athlete is playing with them in mind.

“ e wristband symbolizes a special bond between the two and lets the child know that athlete has dedicated their game, and their ght, to them,” the organization’s website says.

During football season, Playing 4 Hope also provides all patients, their families, and sta on the pediatric oors with tailgating essentials: food, beverages, backyard games, and a watch party.

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

Playing 4 Hope has been able to foster many inspiring relationships through its work and they have plans to foster more with a new campaign called Players 4 Hope.

“Players 4 Hope is new for us. We did a proof of concept of bringing a couple athletes into grade schools. Talking about

mental health, mental health awareness in the adolescent population, where to get help, anti-bullying, pushing through adversity. at was really impactful,” Brian says. “We went and did this in a Lebanon school district. We are continuing to grow it, so we’re doing that here in Columbia now. Essentially, what we do is go there and talk about mental health and mental health awareness. We also provide any underserved kids with winter clothing, school supplies, and the whole school gets wristbands to know that there’s that special bond.”

GET INVOLVED

Playing 4 Hope o ers many opportunities for the Columbia community to get involved and support the organization’s cause.

As a nonpro t organization, Playing 4 Hope is dependent on the support it receives from the local community. ere are options to donate, sponsor an athlete, or participate in a fundraising event. All this information can be found at Playing4Hope.org/supportourcause.

PLAYING 4 HOPE

PO Box 10156, Columbia, MO 65205 317-920-3213 info@playing4hope.org Playing4Hope.org

Tequila is for Lovers

ROMaNCE BLOOms La TiKi

Columbia’s newest Mexican-themed tiki bar, La Tikita, is the perfect night out for both lovers and tequila-lovers.

BY JULIENNE N. GRAEBNER PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

Every weekend, like clockwork, Downtown Columbia comes alive as residents march to their favorite bars and restaurants to indulge and imbibe.

e District is home to bars and breweries that t nearly every niche— sports bars, dance clubs, Irish pubs, and even a honky tonk joint—but in a college town, it can be di cult to nd a relaxing spot to enjoy a few drinks on a Friday evening without compromising the excitement of a night out.

is is exactly what Jesse Garcia set out to create with his newest venture, a Mexican-themed tiki bar called La Tikita.

“I sat on the idea for two or three years,” he says. “Columbia doesn’t have anything that’s an experience like you get in bigger cities. I wanted to make something that was a little bit special.”

ere are few people in Columbia who know the nightclub industry quite as well as Jesse. After serving as general manager at Sideshow, Jesse went on to own his own bars: Roxy’s, e Penguin Piano Bar, and e Social Room. After closing e Penguin and Roxy’s, Jesse poured his time into e Social Room, which is where La Tikita has found a home.

ough La Tikita is nestled into the front room of e Social Room’s Eighth Street location, the two bars could not be more di erent. e Social Room is a nostalgic space that features an expansive dance oor, pool table, and arcade games, but entering La Tikita through the mirrored, speakeasy-style door transports you into an entirely di erent world.

Still, La Tikita isn’t your typical tiki bar

“I’m not Polynesian, I’m not Hawaiian, and I’ve never been there, so I wouldn’t know how to design a ‘traditional’ tiki bar,” Jesse says. “But I do have Mexican heritage, I’ve been there, and I love Latin culture, so I pulled a lot of inspiration from that.

at’s where the name comes from— La Tikita—it’s just a little tiki. It’s a tiki bar, but it’s all Mexican and Latin themed.”

ese in uences are clear when visiting La Tikita. Every inch of the space has been meticulously designed, with woven wood walls, soft ickering lights, and a carefully placed ofrenda honoring the bar sta ’s loved ones.

Even La Tikita’s romantic “origin story”—which Jesse feels is imperative to feature at any tiki bar— stems from Aztec legend. e space feels uniquely intimate, but not simply because you’re hearing the sweet sounds of Elvis Crespo crooning over the sound system… or because there is only seating for 25 people in the space.

“ at’s where the inspiration came from in the rst place,” Jesse says. “I wanted to create a space that would be a romantic date spot for people, so I borrowed a lot of Aztec folklore and history to create the back story, and it’s just this wonderfully intertwined story about how La Tikita is a hideaway for star-crossed lovers.”

Determined not to cement himself as Columbia’s very own Cupid, Jesse goes on to say that La Tikita is also a wonderful place for small groups who are looking for a low-key evening with delicious cocktails.

Speaking of which, Jesse’s love for a good tequila has translated perfectly into La Tikita’s cultivated cocktail menu.

“We have the classics, like a caipirinha or a really well-made margarita,” he says. “But we have some of the best tequila selections you’ll nd in the entire state, some of the hardest-to- nd bottles of tequilas, mezcals. If you’re into premiere tequilas or want to try something new or something you can’t nd in other places, La Tikita is going to be one of the best places to get them. With the Mexican theme, we built the menu on quality ingredients and [these] top quality liquors, and I think it really shows.”

e building project just wrapped up in October, but La Tikita has quickly become a popular spot for those looking to escape the throng on the dance oors. With a limited capacity, the space lls quickly with both customers and mirth.

“As far as I can tell, it’s been rave reviews so far,” Jesse laughs. “Our cocktails have gone over really well, people like the vibe of the space, and they love the music… You can’t help but dance at the tableside. Usually, [people] will get a drink, maybe not even nish that rst drink, and suddenly they’re dancing — just grooving — next to their table. So [La Tikita] has a really welcoming, fun environment without being too over the top.”

ough grooving is inevitable, Jesse stresses that La Tikita is meant to be fully separate from e Social Room’s dance oor din just on the other side of the door.

“We didn’t want La Tikita to become a break for [ e Social Room’s] dance oor, so we have di erent entry points for both bars,” he says. “We want you to enjoy the experience of having a fancy cocktail and enjoy the ambiance there, and I think it would be hard if [you] were commingling with tipsy people on the other side of the bar who are just coming over for a sweat break.”

Similarly sweaty, La Tikita’s construction was a labor of love. Jesse explains that e Social Room’s kitchen had previously been located in the space, so a months-long renovation had to be done to create a full kitchen at the back of the building before construction on La Tikita could take place. Fortunately for those that get the munchies after a few tequila shots, e Social Room’s full menu is available at La Tikita. Fortunately for Jesse Garcia, the time and e ort spent building La Tikita was more than worth it.

Smiling like the proud father he is, the man who has owned and created multiple bars says one more thing simple about La Tikita: “I think it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever built.”

LA TIKITA [at the Social Room]

220 N 8th St. Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 397-6442 | thesocialroomcomo. com/la-tikita

Jesse Garcia, owner

Mat Gass

President, Brightli Central Region

PHOTO BY CHARLES BRUCE

COMPANY/ORGANIZATION:

Burrell

JOB DESCRIPTION

People leader and advocate working to increase access to behavioral healthcare across midMissouri.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

I have over 20 years of behavioral health experience in service to rural and underserved communities. I hold a bachelor’s degree in biology from Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Mo., and a master’s in social work from the University of Missouri, Columbia. I’ve been licensed as a clinical social worker for nearly 15 years.

HOMETOWN Omaha, Arkansas

YEARS LIVED IN COLUMBIA

4 Years

FAVORITE RECENT PROJECT

e recent creation of a 24 hour Behavioral Crisis Center in Columbia, located at 1805 E. Walnut Street.

Behavioral Health (Brightli is the parent company of Burrell Behavioral Health)

QUOTE YOU LIVE BY

“When you plant lettuce, if it does not grow well, you don’t blame the lettuce. You look for reasons it is not doing well. It may need fertilizer, or more water, or less sun. You never blame the lettuce. Yet if we have problems with our friends or family, we blame the other person. But if we know how to take care of them, they will grow well. — ich Nhat Hanh

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER/ COMMUNITY ACTIVITY

Coaching youth sports

A COMO PERSON YOU ADMIRE AND WHY

Susan Hart, Reinhart Construction. As we have expanded and grown locations to meet the community need, we’ve asked Susan and Reinhardt to meet some extremely tight construction deadlines. In addition to meeting every deadline we have set during the new Ash Street Project Susan called to share people were showing up at this location seeking care. Susan scheduled a mental heath training for her employees working at this location so that they knew how to respond and get people connected to care.

IF YOU WEREN’T DOING THIS FOR A LIVING, YOU WOULD

I attended college at Missouri Valley with a goal of being in the medical eld. If I hadn’t found behavioral health I would have likely settled on nursing or physical therapy as a profession.

WHY YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR JOB

I, like everyone reading this article, have seen the impact of mental health challenges in someone I care deeply about. I believe behavioral healthcare is healthcare, my job is to help bring the resources and systems we would expect to see in primary care settings to the behavioral health space.

WHY YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR COMPANY

Organizations like Burrell were born out of the Community Mental Health Act of 1963 to serve our most vulnerable community members. While we have grown to be one of the largest and most innovative Certi ed Community Behavioral Health Clinics in the nation, we haven’t drifted from our core mission of service.

WHAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION

e number of people seeking behavioral health services is at an all time high and the existing healthcare workforce is aging out. We need young people to know careers in the eld o er great paying jobs that can fuel a personal passion to make a di erence.

THE NEXT CHALLENGE FACING YOUR INDUSTRY

In our eld we say behavioral healthcare is simply healthcare. I want to help the community better understand the connection between mental wellbeing and the primary care environment. When we as a society stop separating treatment of the brain from the other systems in the body we get the best opportunity to achieve successful outcomes.

YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL GOAL

Deeply integrating recovery and substance use treatment services into the work that we have been traditionally known to provide here in Columbia. Adding Burrell Recovery Services at the location previously known as Phoenix Programs we have the opportunity to ensure that a person in Boone County has the ability to receive treatment at one agency without having to tell and retell their story to multiple service agencies.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED IN BUSINESS

e overall health of an organization can be seen by how team members handle con ict. As leaders we should nd ways to encourage talented and creative people to be passionate about what matters to them. Pairing people with dramatically di erent talents and strengths and encourage them to dream big always yields the best results.

HOW YOU WANT TO IMPACT THE COLUMBIA COMMUNITY

First, I want to be sure that every person in our community knows how to access mental health treatment, that can be with Burrell or any provider that makes them feel comfortable. From there, creating early intervention and prevention e orts to address the 5-8 year delay we see for youth to access mental heath treatment. Youth accessing behavioral healthcare must be just as simple as those needing a primary care physician.

GREATEST STRENGTH

incredibly passionate about the work that we do.”

GREATEST WEAKNESS

When it comes to serving vulnerable people groups I have high expectations. Advocacy and education in these spaces can sometimes can be seen as pushing too hard.

WHAT YOU DO FOR FUN

We are an outdoor family, you will often nd us biking the KATY trail and trout shing at Bennett Springs or Taneycomo

FAMILY

My wife Kimberly and I are the parents of seven children and 10 grandchildren. Our son Mathew, our youngest, is now a student at Rockbridge High School.

FAVORITE PLACE IN COMO

Anything that has to do with our parks and trails. Columbia is the most bike friendly city that we have lived in and we enjoy self transporting whenever possible.

ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF

When we moved back to Columbia in 2019 I left the team that I built in Southwest Missouri. Most of that team is still doing the work nearly 4 years later, as a leader having your team be successful in your absence is something that I am incredibly proud of.

MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW THAT

After college I worked at an apple orchard, and during the Halloween season dressed in a head-to-toe gorilla costume for the haunted corn maze.

“I am

Mental Health Checkup

Survey says: Services and need outnumber providers.

BY JODIE JACKSON JR.

Try to picture this image: If you could line up all the Missouri children and youth with a behavioral health concern and space them three feet apart on I-70, the line would reach 206 miles, or roughly the distance from Kansas City to Wentzville. Now use the same parameters for lining up the number of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the state.

You’ll only need one and a half football elds for that line.

at illustration from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI, is an important perspective and context for any conversation about the state of mental health care in Boone County and Columbia, which bene ts from a one-quarter cent sales tax for children’s mental health services. at county tax, passed with 57 percent voter approval in 2012, has generated about $59.5 million since its inception. e Boone County Children’s Services Board approves expenditures, which have funded a variety of preventive services in partnership with school districts, several nonpro t providers, and targeted programs aimed at addressing mental health needs before they become chronic or lead to incidents or crimes that require police involvement.

e annual report that details funding and programs show success in preventing suicide and diverting youths from the legal system to care providers — with one glaring exception. e number of child and adolescent psychiatrists — and mental health providers in general — is still not adequate for providing the services.

e shortage of psychiatrists for adults is also troubling, state o cials noted in a 2021 budget report. One of the more common observations — and incredible frustrations for families in need — is that waiting lists for those services can be as far as nine months or a year long. And while health insurance plans cover mental health care, those policies often limit the number of visits for therapy or cap the amount that can be spent on other treatments for mental and behavioral health problems.

All 10 health insurance plans o ered on the public marketplace, or Obamacare, for 2023 in Boone County have mental health bene ts, each with varying levels and allowances for coverage. To

qualify for coverage, a diagnosis is required, which is where psychiatrists ll a vital role.

“We tend to see mental health di erently than we do general health. But it’s all health,” says Janet ompson, Boone County northern district commissioner. e avoidance of candid discussion about mental health — and accepting it as equally as physical health, she says — clouds the way the topic is discussed and how it is treated in public policy decisions.

“Mental health diseases are the only non-casserole diseases,” Janet says. “If someone has cancer, you take a casserole. But if it’s a mental health challenge, people run away.” at attitude too often a ects how or whether policymakers put funding toward meeting the needs, she adds.

e Missouri Department of Mental Health lists increased employment, decreased incarceration, reduced strain on families, and decreased costs for future, higher levels of care among the bene ts of mental health care.

e children’s mental health sales tax puts Columbia and Boone County ahead of similarly sized cities and counties. Only a dozen other counties in the state have such a tax and a few have general mental health funding that comes from property tax levies. But most of the state quali es as a mental health desert simply because of the lack of quali ed providers.

What makes a provider quali ed to treat mental illness — and why can’t that treatment be provided by primary care or family physicians?

Psychiatrists have specialized training to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. Whether the patient is a child or an adult, it’s a psychiatrist who is best quali ed to prescribe medication and other treatments for mental and behavioral health. Without a diagnosis, health insurance either won’t cover or will limit some medical interventions. A recent study by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that 65 percent of pediatricians surveyed reported they lacked training in the treatment of children and adolescents with mental health problems; 40 percent said they lacked the con dence to recognize these health concerns.

Surveys of general practice or primary care providers show similar results.

New programs, including the Missouri Child Psychiatry Access Project, are now in place to provide training and support to help participating pediatric care providers be better equipped to care for children with mild to moderate mental health concerns. Some of those approaches are being o ered to primary care physicians and their sta s, and a peer specialist program is in the pilot project stages as a way of lling the gap for intervening in more severe cases when specialists don’t have quick access for care.

e Boone County children’s mental health tax was accomplished as a result of the initiative petition process, with a dedicated group of advocates working through the peak of summer heat in 2012 to gather enough signatures to require the county commission to put the measure on the November ballot. Among the plethora of issues on the ballot was the election of a new northern district commissioner, with Janet winning with 54 percent of the votes in the county’s northern district.

With a staggering 79.3 percent voter turnout, the children’s services tax, listed as Proposition 1 on the ballot, earned 57 percent of the vote for passage. ( e tally was 41,388 votes in favor and 30,917 votes against.)

Before turning her attention to the role and tasks of a county commissioner, Janet was an attorney with the state public defender’s o ce. She was often assigned some of the most di cult criminal cases and has the unenviable experience of being a witness for a client’s execution. ose experiences have made her a strong advocate for the 13th Judicial Circuit’s mental health court, the children’s mental health tax, and other measures to provide crisis intervention — rather than arrest — when dealing with mental health challenges.

Janet says her rst “wake up call” came more than 30 years ago when the state began closing psychiatric hospitals to cut its budget.

“And my caseload skyrocketed,” she recalls. “ ere’s public outrage if a hospital is shut down. But not if it’s a mental hospital.”

Whether there’s public recognition or discussion about mental health needs and access to services — and whether or why there’s

a shortage of providers — Janet says those factors have ripple e ects.

Heather Harlan is a Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services department health educator, as well as a long-time facilitator for NAMI events and meetings in Columbia and Missouri. ( e city/county health department also facilitates family support group meetings.)

Heather is personally familiar with — and painfully aware of — the gaps in local mental health services. Her son, Micah, died by suicide in February 2019.

“People don’t know that you may have to wait quite a while” for a psychological assessment or a psychiatric appointment, she says. “I blame my son's death on his broken brain and his mental health condition — and a broken system.”

blame my son's death on

– HEATHER HARLAN

“I

his broken brain and his mental health condition — and a broken system.”

He was released from a hospital in May 2018 but had to wait four months for a follow-up assessment.

“Someone with diabetes, if their numbers are so bad, they have to be hospitalized in May, you don’t tell them, ‘We’ll get you in [for an assessment] in August,” Heather adds. She describes her son as a “very bright man” who died just a few days short of his 39th birthday, and just a few months before he was to graduate with an English degree from Columbia College. His degree was awarded posthumously.

“He had struggled with mood issues for most of his life,” she says, adding that there were also other neurological issues. “He has said over and over, ‘I feel like I’m trying to run with a broken leg.’”

He did not have substance abuse issues — he didn’t use alcohol and didn’t smoke or use other drugs — though he took medication that helped him “feel like myself,” Heather says.

“By February 2019, it all just caught up with him,” she explains. “ e perfect storm of despair, depression, and opportunity.”

e shortage of providers, as shown by a 2014 report commissioned by the Boone County Children’s Services Board and a follow-up 2019 report, and Boone Hospital closing its psychiatric unit a few years before that, is not a new challenge. ( e hospital, operated at that time by BJC Health Care, said that unit was shut down because the hospital could not hire psychiatrists to keep the unit functioning.)

One of the bright spots of the county’s mental health tax, which is limited for use with children and their families, is the Bridge program that provides mental health screening to some 26,000 public (and some private) school students. e screenings and other parts of the program provide a trove of data — missing in most counties and communities in the state — that helps the children’s services board decide where to allocate the sales tax resources.

Janet relates one example that she is certain has been multiplied numerous times. A teacher was going through an evaluation with a fourth grader in one Boone County school and the child not only showed signs of a mental health disorder, but “the kid had the plan for completing suicide. A fourth grader. It was just a matter of when.”

With quick intervention and follow up services for the child and her family, Janet explains, “ is kid’s still alive.”

Another service created and funded by the county’s dedicated sales tax is the Family Access Center of Excellence (FACE) of Boone County. e FACE center is often the rst point of contact for children and families experiencing a mental health crisis. FACE provides screenings and assessments and makes referrals to providers for appropriate treatment or intervention.

ose are positive outcomes for individuals who have access to screenings and care. e scenario is more challenging for adults, and having health insurance isn’t a cureall, especially if access is limited or there aren’t enough providers. Many private mental health therapists and clinics — those not associated with a larger organization — eschew health insurance because the complexities and requirements drive up overhead costs. Some of those clinics o er sliding-scale payment options; others do not.

e state budget has remained steady with about 7 percent of total spending dedicated to the Department of Mental Health. ( at’s about $2.48 billion in the scal year 2021 budget.) ose funds are used for access to care for some 170,000 adults and children who struggle with serious mental illness, substance abuse, or developmental disabilities. A network of more than 1,300 community-based nonpro t partners contract with the department to provide those services.

In Columbia, individuals and families experiencing mental health challenges can connect with NAMI Columbia, which has on-site gatherings at Broadway Christian Church and virtual support connection

CONNECT WITH NAMI COLUMBIA namimissouri.org/support-and-education facebook.com/NAMIColumbiaMO instagram.com/NAMIMissouri 573-634-7727

“If someone has cancer, you take a casserole. But if it’s a mental health challenge, people run away.”

– JANET THOMPSON

The Form and Function of Good Health

BY MICHELLE TERHUNE | PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

Medications save lives. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors lower blood pressure by relaxing the arteries and veins. Monoclonal antibodies help control the symptoms of Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Prescription stimulants help people manage attention de cit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

None of these chronic diseases are currently curable. Medications, diet, and lifestyle changes help people manage them. But none of these interventions gets to the root of the problem, which may lead to prolonged su ering. You may want to also consider functional nutritional therapy.

IT’S THE FUNCTIONAL ALTERNATIVE

To understand functional nutritional therapy, you need to begin with an understanding of functional medicine. is discipline was given a name in the early 1990s by biochemist Je rey Bland who took a systems biology-based approach to identify and address the root cause of disease.

Whereas traditional medicine involves reviewing symptoms, diagnosing a chronic disease, and treating the symptoms, functional medicine aims to nd the underlying cause so it can be addressed. It relies on scienti c research in nutrition, genomics, and epigenetics. In other words, it’s at the intersection of what you consume, your genetic makeup, and environmental and behavioral issues that a ect how your genes work.

Functional medicine is referred to as a type of alternative medicine. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t rely on science. It employs evidence from research on such issues as the e ects of genetic di erences in how people absorb and metabolize

nutrients, and how an individual’s genes a ect the creation of proteins.

In fact, functional medicine is becoming more mainstream as people seek ways to manage chronic disease with less reliance on medications and more focus on a holistic approach. Many physicians in Columbia are recommending that patients explore functional nutritional therapy. e renowned Cleveland Clinic pushed the discipline out of the shadows in 2014 when it launched its Center for Functional Medicine to serve patients with an alternative approach to managing chronic disease:

Functional medicine providers spend time listening to you and gathering your medical history. We use this information to identify the root cause(s) of the illness, including triggers such as poor nutrition, stress, toxins, allergens, genetics, and your microbiome (the bacteria living in and on your body).

Once we identify the triggers, we can customize a healthy living plan for you. Your plan will address many aspects of your life, from physical needs, including nutrition, exercise, and sleep, to mental and emotional stressors related to social, work, and community life.

Functional medicine is premised on the belief that the body has the capacity to heal and regulate itself. And the approach is becoming more popular as means to manage chronic disease and to even prevent it. When used in conjunction with traditional medicine, the results can be amazing.

EVERYONE’S A PUZZLE

Medical nutrition therapy is routinely used to manage chronic disease. Take diabetes, for example. ere’s a nutrition diagnosis for the patient which dieticians use to educate patients about a diet they should follow to help manage the disease. Dieticians do the same in creating diets designed for weight loss and heart-healthy diets and recommended

Functional nutritional therapy is finding all the pieces of the chronic health condition puzzle and helping clients put them together to achieve better outcomes.

foods to avoid for those su ering from gastrointestinal disorders.

Functional nutritional therapy, though, digs deep into the way nutrients, toxins, and genetic propensities a ect the way an individual’s system functions.

“I am very much about how the person is functioning and what those root causes are from a nutritional standpoint,” says Karri Ball, a certi ed functional nutritional therapist.

“I’ve been there. Pharmaceuticals work really fast, as far as treating the symptoms,” Karri says. “ e hard part is, when you don’t have the symptoms anymore, we tend to think we’re xed. e problem is that problem is still there brewing because we haven’t treated the root cause.”

Karri says many medications can deplete certain nutrients, especially when they’re taken for a long period. For example, there are nutrient depletions in women who use or used oral contraceptives for years. Functional nutritional therapy aims to identify what’s depleted and nd ways to restore them.

“I work with a lot of people who want to eventually get o medications. Many of my clients know those are just treating their symptoms but not the root causes, and some of my clients have never thought of it that way,” Karri says. “For example, they think their blood pressure is ne because their medication is controlling it, but they haven’t considered why they need the medication and what may be causing their blood pressure to be high in the rst place.”

Karri notes there are a lot of things in the foods we consume that are barriers to a healthy functioning body. Take digestive health, for instance. Karri’s journey from a career as a certi ed public accountant to a functional nutritional therapist began with her own “gut issues,” as she refers to them.

“When we just use pharmaceuticals to treat the symptoms, but we keep putting in the same type of diet, the things that are in our foods can be very, very damaging,” Karri says. “I can tell clients the good things, like the things that will soothe the gastrointestinal tract that can help begin to repair and rebuild what’s in amed and broken. But if we keep putting in those foods that are actually part of the problem for an individual client – even if it’s categorically recommended for gastrointestinal issues –we’re just going to keep chasing our tail. We have to gure out what things to remove that are causing the problem.”

Nutrient imbalances are common, especially given how most people eat, consuming high

amounts of saturated fats, sugars, salt, and processed foods. Plus, there are heavy metals that may be part of the healthy foods you’re consuming, or in the water you’re drinking. ose factors, along with how your body processes nutrients, sugars, and minerals, lifestyle choices, stress, and mental health issues, are all the pieces of the puzzle functional nutritional therapy aims to put together.

THERE’S MORE THAN MEETS THE BLOOD TEST

Blood analysis is a common method used by physicians to diagnose illness. Once you’ve been diagnosed, blood tests are used to monitor how you’re doing. But the “normal” ranges for such things as liver function, blood sugar, and thyroid function are broad and even di er depending on the lab that analyzes the results. Blood tests are useful in functional nutritional therapy, but therapists take a deeper dive, beginning with spending time to get a full history of a client’s health, family, work, and lifestyle.

“In the functional blood chemistry world, we work with tighter ranges,” Karri says. “ en, we look for correlations to understand the root cause. For example, I work with many people with cholesterol imbalances and one underlying cause for many is in blood sugar imbalances or they are in the stages of insulin resistance.”

Functional medicine also analyzes the patient’s microbiome, those microbes that live inside and outside the body which a ect health and disease. In addition, a hair tissue mineral analysis can identify nutrients and heavy metals in the body.

Karri pores over all the numbers, ranges, and information she gleans from these tests to get a picture of what’s happening in a client’s body. She and her client end up with a roadmap that shows the path to addressing the root causes of the client’s issues. Map in hand, they can work together to make changes that should lead to better health.

“I’ve had clients that are nursing moms whose babies have re ux. We gure out what mom has that she passing to the baby to solve the problem,” Karri says. “I’ve had clients with infertility issues who have tried everything except looking at what’s happening nutritionally in the body, clients who su er from chronic fatigue, kids with behavioral issues, and clients undergoing cancer treatment. How amazing it is when a body gets truly nourished!”

- KARRI BALL

“How amazing it is when a body gets truly nourished!”

AN APPROACH FOR WHATEVER AILS YOU

In addition to individually customized programs, Karri delivers education programs for some area employers and a program for women su ering from fatigue. She also o ers a live, virtual ve-week functional nutrition education program twice a year. e next one kicks o in late January 2023.

Functional medicine is nding success in addressing a wide variety of chronic issues, including adrenal disorders, dementia, arthritis, asthma, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and pre-diabetes, digestive disorders, bromyalgia, food allergies, polycystic ovary syndrome, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, and thyroid disorders. It is even being used in cancer prevention. Functional nutritional therapy may not cure your chronic condition. But it might provide the missing piece in your health management puzzle. at makes it a useful discussion worth having with your doctor.

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COMO, did you know?

Human noses can remember 50,000 different scents.

Most people produce enough saliva in their lifetimes to fill two swimming pools.

In one mouth alone, the number of bacteria can easily exceed the number of people on Earth.

Your eyes blink around 20 times a minute. That’s over ten million times a year!

Of the 206 bones in the average human adult's body, 106 are in the hands and feet. (54 in the hands and 52 in the feet).

If you walked for 12 hours a day, it would take the average person 690 days to walk around the world.

Every minute you shed over 30,000 dead skin cells.

If you live to age 70, your heart will have beat around 2.5 billion times!

During your lifetime, you will eat about 30,000 kg of food – that’s the weight of about six African elephants.

Spread across their lifetime, most people spend an average of one whole year sitting on the toilet.

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