United Care Transport
Trusted Rides. Real Stories. Healthier Communities.
For many mid-Missourians, health care access begins long before they walk into a clinic — it starts with having a safe, dependable way to get there. Every day, United Care Transport helps patients, families and health care providers bridge that distance with care, comfort and compassion.
But what truly defines UCT isn’t just its vehicles or routes — it’s the people whose lives have been changed by the service.
“Reliable. That’s the word I’d use.” — Thomas, Sedalia
Thomas, a veteran managing kidney disease, relies on UCT for his dialysis treatments.
“They’ve never missed a day. Rain, snow, early mornings — they show up. When you’re counting on care three times a week, that kind of reliability means everything.” For health care facilities across mid-Missouri, UCT has become a trusted partner, ensuring patients like Thomas get the consistent care they need.
Driven by purpose, guided by experience founded and operated by Jordan and Chance Mertgen, United Care Transport combines health care understanding with military precision and compassion. The result is a service that’s as dependable as it is personal. “We built this company to serve people the right way — with respect, empathy and accountability,” says Jordan. “Every passenger deserves to feel safe, cared for and valued.” With a growing fleet of wheelchair-accessible vans and ambulatory vehicles, UCT now serves Columbia, Jefferson City, Boonville, Sedalia and neighboring communities. Every driver is CPR and First Aid certified, ensuring safety and professionalism on every ride.
Transportation with Heart
For UCT, success isn’t measured in miles — it’s measured in trust earned and lives improved. From patients regaining independence to clinics reducing no-shows, UCT stands for more than just mobility — it represents a promise kept. When care matters most, UCT gets you there.
For more information, visit www.unitedcaretransport.com
Zola Heck Editor | zcrowder@mailzimmer.com Inside Columbia magazine
from the Editor
Christmas and winter mean so many things. This season means time with family, revisiting your favorite traditions, findingcreative ways to enjoy time outdoors in the cold, eating good food and so much more. But sadly, I findthat winter gets a bad rap. Aside from Christmas, most people, at least according to our daily office debates, despise winter. But for me, it’s always been my favorite. Living thousands of miles away from my family for 10 years has made me even more appreciative of the time winter gives me to be at home and create memories with those I love the most. Sometimes, if I was lucky enough to get the holiday off,that would be on Christmas, or other times that would be when we would have “fake Christmas” in January. I think that’s why I love this season so much. No matter what our schedules allowed, this was the one time of year we always made sure to gather and celebrate together. Winter gives us a moment to stop, cozy up and just enjoy the company we have while the weather figues itself out for the season.
Since most people are frustrated that spring doesn’t make its appearance immediately after Christmas, we are giving you the perfect issue to stay entertained throughout the dreaded cold months that follow. For January, we are bringing you the perfect guide on how to findthe right gym on pages 4449, so you can tackle your New Year’s resolution. Whether you are getting a head start in December, waiting until the firstof the year or need that extra motivation as the months go on, this feature will help you get a jump on your fitness journe.
For February, we have cultivated all the local love stories, tips and dating fun for Valentine’s Day. On pages 36-43, if you’re searching for love, celebrating with your perfect match or simply looking for festive date activities to enjoy this holiday season, this feature has everything you need to make the most of the season of romance.
To bundle up fashionably this winter, we have also curated a selection of warm yet stylish local fashion on pages 50-53, so you know exactly what to look for and where to find it
For winter lovers like me or those who can’t wait for the warmer months ahead, this issue of is guaranteed to bring a little extra magic to the season. Happy holidays from Inside Columbia!
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Carla Leible carla@mailzimmer.com
FOUNDERS
Fred & Melody Parry fred@mailzimmer.com
EDITOR Zola Heck zcrowder@mailzimmer.com
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Jane Steinbrecher jsteinbrecher@mailzimmer.com
Bailey Rizzo brizzo@mailzimmer.com
ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimme.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lilyann Hames lhames@mailzimmer.com
PHOTO EDITOR
L.G. Patterson lg@mailzimmer.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Ava Kitzi, Wally Pfeffer, Nancy Toalson, Brook Harlan, Allie Crow, Ryan Vestil, Kindra Barrett
Vesta Hotchkiss models local fashion for winter. Photo by Ava Kitzi.
what's online
Enjoy
Snow-and-Tell
Whether you’re taking a trip to the mountains or spending the season in town and off the slopes, ou’ll want to stay fashionable this winter season. We’ve put together a collection of outerwear and accessories from local shops on pages 50-53 to help you beat the cold while staying stylish. Follow us on Instagram @insidecolumbiamagazine so you don’t miss a behind-the-scenes look at the photoshoot, from painting the studio to styling our models.
Sharing Some Love
Ready to take your Valentine’s Day roses up a notch? In addition to a guide to making the most of your floal arrangements on page 39, we’res showing you how to make your own bouquet right at home — complete with roses, cocculus, variegated pitt and spiral eucalyptus. Keep an eye out on our Instagram and Facebook pages for this tutorial!
Inside Columbia Staff
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Kalie Kramel kkramel@mailzimmer.com
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Max Valkner mvalkner@mailzimmer.com
OFFICE MANAGER
Becky James rjames@mailzimmer.com
DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE
Steve Leible
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Inside Columbia Advisory Board
Get to know our Inside Columbia Advisory Board members!
We are thrilled to have such a talented group of individuals from all different industries in the community joining us to help shape the future of our publication. Their expertise across several professions and unique perspectives in the Columbia community will be invaluable as we continue to provide the best content for you, our readers.
Andrea Lyn Seppo Andrea Lyn Events
Ashleigh Stundebeck Select Realty Group
Sue Schwinke State Farm Insurance
Jennifer Heidrich Bronze by Design
Jessica Caldera Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer
Jenny Dewar Pure Barre Columbia
Mackenzie Wells Mackenzie Wells Fitness
Jill Newton Volunteer
MJ Smith Department of Emergency Medicine, MU School of Medicine
Stephanie Witthar CenterPointe Hospital of Columbia
Amanda Alcamo Restoration Chiropractic
Aging Reimagined
HOW NAVIGATE WELLNESS IS HUMANIZING HEALTH CARE IN COLUMBIA.
BY BAILEY RIZZO • PHOTO BY AVA KITZI
When hospitals discharge patients, the assumption is that healing continues seamlessly at home. But for many aging adults and their families, that’s when the confusion starts.
Who follows up? What medication are they supposed to take at what time? Who helps Mom understand her new diagnosis — or even make it to her next appointment?
For Ryan Hopper and Janie Bailey, the co-founders of Navigate Wellness, those lingering questions weren’t just theoretical. They were real, persistent problems they witnessed over and over again in the traditional health care system. They knew it was time for a different approach. “I was part of a sinking ship of nursing home care, and I saw people in the community who had no one guiding them,”
Bailey says.
Hopper spent several years as an ICU and travel nurse, then transitioned into ER nursing and hospice care; Bailey has a degree in gerontology and worked in senior living as a care coordinator. They met over coffee and realized they were noticing deficiencies in both their lines of work. “We were both pretty spicy toward the health care system, and we
were primed to do something about it,” Bailey says.
Navigate Wellness was born out of this shared frustration with the traditional health care system. Hopper and Bailey saw how often patients — especially older adults — were falling through the cracks. “It’s jolting … it’s confusing … it’s overwhelming for everyone involved,” Hopper says.
The two decided there
had to be a way to bridge the gap between doctor’s visits, hospital discharge and longterm wellness — without a nursing home. So they built it.
Navigate Wellness is all about allowing adults to age in place. “Most of the people we work with are scared of losing control, scared of the vulnerability of things they might be hiding from loved ones,” Hopper says. “But I find that what scares them more than anything is being forced out of their home or losing control of their decisions.”
Oftentimes, nursing homes or senior living facilities manage the well-being of roughly 50-75 patients, trying to offer palatable care for each of them. This just isn’t possible.
“The dirty little secret of senior living is that these are some of the most regulated businesses in the world,”
Bailey says. “They can put whatever they want on the brochure, but at the end of the day, the book of rules they have to operate under makes it difficult to do much else.”
The goal of Navigate Wellness isn’t to dismiss senior living; they aim to be complementary to the system and fill the void between. I don’t think anybody argues that the medical system is broken,” Hopper says. “But we’re utilizing the system through our care managers as a way to take some weight off the shoulders of aging adults
and caregivers.”
As the patient load grew, so did the services offered to meet the needs of aging adults. Currently, Navigate Wellness offers care
or children of the aging adults. Navigate Wellness differentiates itself once again by supporting caregivers along the way. “You’re probably missing your dad, who’s sitting
“moment is getting to see that reignition of passion for helping people,” Hopper says.
For Bailey, the most rewarding parts of this are in the small moments, just
“We’re utilizing the system through our care managers as a way to take some weight off the shoulders of aging adults and caregivers.”
navigation, concierge nursing, mobility, companion care, wound care, infusions and end-of-life care at home with 24/7 availability. It all starts with a free Clarity Call.
“Because of the knowledge we have from working in the system, we know what to ask and what to recommend,”
Bailey says. From there, the team will meet to determine next steps, and an Aging Roadmap will be built alongside the patient and their caregiver.
This assessment goes beyond looking at how a person is doing medically; it also works to obtain the overall goal of care. “If staying at home for the duration of life is the goal, then we’ll build a plan that allows us to fix a dynamic list of problems,” Hopper says.
Currently, the weight of health care is on the unpaid caregiver — i.e., the spouse
right in front of you, because every time you’ve seen him this week, it’s to take him to an appointment,” Bailey says. “We like to take that stuff off of people so you can have lunch with your dad or play Uno with them. We give you back the time you might have lost with them.”
None of what Hopper and Bailey are doing is monumentally new. But Bailey describes themselves as “rogue rebels,” as they continue to provide excellent service, without the red tape. “We like to do the things that other people don't do,” she says. “We like to have the conversations that people don't have.”
The team at Navigate Wellness is made up of these rogue rebels: high achievers who are burned out, taken advantage of or disconnected from why they even got into the field. “Part of the best
doing what needs to be done.
From helping clean a house to having difficult conversations about death, the team at Navigate Wellness does it all. “People will say ‘there’s no village’ — but we’re creating the village,” she says. “You have people in your village you’ve never even met, and when someone anticipates that we’re going to tell them ‘no,’ we get to tell them ‘yes.’”
Most people aren’t excited about having to make the initial call for senior living; they want to stay home and remain in charge. If this fear of losing control sounds familiar, Hopper says Navigate Wellness is probably the right option. “We don’t represent what you’re scared of,” he says. “We’re the people who are going to stand beside you and make wherever you’re at the best version of what it’s going to be.”
The Next Chapter Awaits
FIND
YOUR
PERFECT LITERARY MATCH WITH OUR NEW READER QUIZ.
BY JANE STEINBRECHER
Is your ‘to-be-read’ list looking a little sparse? Do you have a go-to genre? Are you a self-proclaimed bibliophobe? Give our brand new reader quiz a whirl and you might just find our next favorite local book.
Reader Quiz
1. You’re browsing the shelves at your favorite bookstore. What do you add to your cart?
A. A nice hardcover with a striking design.
B. A book on a topic I recognize or am familiar with.
C. Anything with an intriguing summary.
D. Whatever the staff suggests orks for me!
2. Where is your ideal spot to read?
A. A table in my favorite coffee shop with my headphones on is heaven to me.
B. On the couch at night once I’m in my comfy clothes, especially if it’s a relaxing read.
C. At the library or with a book club, anywhere that connects me to the community.
D. I always have a book on me and I’ll read wherever I get a spare minute. In a waiting room, while I eat, whenever — I always find the tim.
3. What genres do you often fin yourself bookmarking?
A. Thrillers and mysteries. Bring on the frights, I don’t scare easily.
B. Biographies and non-fition. I history.
C. I enjoy stories that inspire me.
D. I’m all across the board.
4. Which hypothetical book club would you most like to join?
A. A mystery-centric book club that tries to solve the ending before its reveal.
B. An author-focused book club that explores the works of one prolific witer.
C. A historical-fition book club that discusses the close relationship between fition and reality.
D. A book club that changes genres each month and keeps things refreshing.
5. What’s a theme in a novel that always intrigues you?
A. A well-done twist.
B. A look at societal standards, class and equality.
C. Family, community and perseverance.
D. I enjoy and am moved by all kinds of themes.
6. Lastly, what’s your favorite color? Yes, this still counts.
A. Maroon.
B. Pale yellow.
C. Deep navy.
D. Green? Pink? I don’t know.
Quiz Results
Mostly A’s - For Horror in the Heartland: “The Wicked Among Us” by James Owen “Atop the Ozark Mountains and in the buckle of the Bible Belt, the murder of an eccentric lawyer reveals a tragic family drama and an examination of a community that would rather see some crimes left unsolved.”
Written by Columbia author James Owen, this thriller is inspired by Owen’s experiences leaving his family farm to become a lawyer. The brand-new novel hits the shelves Jan. 20, but is available for pre-order now on Amazon.
Mostly B’s - For a New Perspective on a Classic: “Jane Austen: The Original Romance Novelist” by Janet Lewis Saidi
“Take a trip back in time to the Regency-era life of Jane Austen, one of literature’s most beloved novelists, with this captivating exploration of her works and the timeless themes of romance, family and society.”
The book is penned by Janet Lewis Saidi, a journalism professor at the University of Missouri and creator of The Austen Connection, a platform dedicated to connecting fans of Austen and sharing conversations about her work and impact, including a podcast. The novel was released Sept. 30 (Austen’s birthday), with a celebration at Skylark Bookshelf and is available in bookstores now.
Mostly C’s - For Perseverance of the Human Spirit: “Shelter Me” by Daren Dean
“This is a story of the resilient spirit of the people of the Pelican State and how neighbors pull together to survive in the grips of a natural disaster that destroyed homes and property, tore many families apart while simultaneously binding others together.”
This novel is written by Daren Dean, assistant professor of English and creative writing at Lincoln University of Missouri. This is his eighth published work after an assortment of short story anthologies, poetry and novels. “Shelter Me,” published Oct. 1, is available at asterismbooks.com and on Amazon.
Mostly D’s - For the reader who picks up anything: How about a subscription?
If you took our quiz and marked D for nearly every single question, congratulations on being the Type B voracious reader we all wish we could be. Maybe you pick up mysteries, historical fition, romance, biographies and memoirs with equal preference. Then why not have someone else choose for you?
The Book Box at Yellow Dog Bookshop delivers a hand-selected, gently-used book to your doorstep every other month — with a little bit of extra love thrown in from local artists. For $20 per box, be surprised by a new read delivered right to you. To sign up, visit yellowdogbookshelf.com/book-box
Alternatively, Skylark Bookshop also
offers a subscription service, which can be purchased in three, six or 12-month increments. Pricing varies based on your preferences (paperback or hardcover, shipping address, number of months, etc.) Your book of the month is carefully selected by your “bibliotherapist” and can be returned if it is a title you’ve already read.
If you want to get more adventurous with your reading or you’d like to experience literary Christmas on a month-to-month basis, a book subscription from a local shop is sure to satisfy the eager reader. Give yourself (or a friend, family member or tolerable coworker) the gift of local literature this season.
Ballet All the Way
NATIONAL NUTCRACKER SHOW MAKES A MAGICAL STOP IN COLUMBIA.
BY ZOLA HECK • PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY RYAN VESTIL
For over three decades, people around the country have experienced the Christmas magic of Talmi Entertainment’s NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet. This year, the enchanting show is returning to more than 100 cities nationwide, including Columbia, bringing international artists and talent to our own backyard.
Dan Talmi, one of the producers of the ballet, says the beauty of this show is seeing the diverse, highly trained group of artists and performers from Japan, Kazakhstan, the United Kingdom, the United States and more come together to present the magic of Christmas. “We’ve got incredible performers,” Talmi says. “The deck is stacked with international cast members who are the highest level of their craft.”
The production value does not end with the onstage performance. Behind the scenes, all the costumes are meticulously handsewn and the sets are painted by hand, reflecting countless hours of work from a dedicated crew. “You have this really unusual blend of high European traditional art and new technology, including moving, intelligent lighting,”
Talmi says. “We also have acrobatics and hand balancing. As our production guys say, it's a three-truck show in a one-truck footprint.”
The magic of this show goes beyond the stage. Occasional meet-and-greets allow the dancers to connect with their young audiences. “It's not an easy project, so when you get a fresh-faced young person who's really excited about this, it reminds you what the magic is really about and what you're doing,” Talmi says.
The program proudly partners with Dance Arts of Columbia, creating an exciting gateway for aspiring young dancers in the community to begin their own journey. Many of the current cast members began dancing at age six or seven, and some were discovered through nationwide audition tours held at local partner studios. “That's where the local kids are having an opportunity to learn the choreography and be in the show alongside the professional cast,” Talmi says. “It's all about getting people off the couch, way from the screens, connected with other people.”
The stop in Columbia is in the middle of the 120-show tour. Once the team makes it to that last show, there is a new feeling in the air. “You get to the final sho, and then all of a sudden, everybody's fully electric and alive again because they know that they've climbed the mountain, conquered the beast and are flying home soon,” Talmi says. “It’s a very emotional experience.”
Talmi says he and the crew are excited to make Columbia a part of this tour once again, reflecting on the first time th show made it to the middle of the Show-Me State. “The energy, the vibe of the town, is just fantastic,” Talmi says. “What comes to mind is just that booming downtown. The venue is fantastic and the team over at the university has always been a great supporter of our production.”
This popular holiday production is stopping in Columbia on Dec. 10. Last year, the show did sell out, so make sure to secure your spot by going to nutcracker.com/ tickets so you don’t miss out on the magic!
Calendar
Dates and events are subject to change. Please visit insidecolumbia.net/events for the most up-to-date information.
December 5
Living Windows Festival
The District
The annual Living Windows Festival returns to downtown Columbia. The event, which features live performances, open houses, shopping and holiday decor, has kept our city’s spirit high for over 20 years.
6-8 p.m., free, discoverthedistrict.com 5
December 6-21
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
North Village Arts District
You don't need to go all the way to Times Square for this one — feel the magic of the holidays with a festive and free horse-drawn carriage ride, provided by The District. While rides are free, tickets must be claimed ahead of time at Serendipity Salon and Gallery.
4-6:45 p.m., free, discoverthedistrict.com 6
December 12
Cookies and Cocoa with Santa
2100 West Broadway, suite 102
Forget paying an arm and a leg for a holiday outing; this free cookies with Santa event will check photos with Santa off our list easily. There will be fun events for the whole family, cookies, hot cocoa and free photos, put on by the Century 21 Community.
4-7 p.m., free, facebook.com/ century21communityrealestate
December 13
Kids Cookie Decorating
Back 2 Basics Cooking
In this hands-on class for children ages six through 17, learn how to expertly decorate sugar cookies with royal icing. Attendees will leave with six iced cookies: two snowmen, two Christmas trees and two stars.
3 p.m., $60, back2basicscooking.as.me 13
December 13-14
Comic, Toy and Pokemon Show
Columbia Mall
Quad-Con is taking over the mall for a two- day showing of vintage toys, comics, cards, art and other collectibles. Secure the perfect holiday gift for the lovable nerd in your life with this exciting shopping event.
11 a.m. to 7 p.m., free, quadcitycon.com 13
December 14
Home for the Holidays: A Missouri Christmas Missouri Theatre
This holiday tradition for the whole family is a collaboration with the Missouri Symphony and the Columbia Chorale, combining cozy mid-century jazz with pop and rock to tell the story of Christmas through music.
2-5 p.m., $39, mizzouarts.missouri.edu 14
DECEMBER
Volunteering
December 6
Stuff the eep Toy Drive
Logboat Brewing Co.
Bring holiday joy to children in foster care with KV Missouri’s second annual “Stuff the Jeep” toy drive at Logboat. Monetary donations will be used to shop for children whose wishlists aren’t yet fulfilled and git donations will be used to stuff the Jeep 5-9 p.m., missouri.kvc.org
December 17
One For One Holiday Drive
Columbia Mall
The 12-hour food and fund drive returns! Prepare for visits from Columbia fiefigters and Santa himself along with fun and holiday cheer. Every dollar donated is equivalent to three meals and every hour spent volunteering is priceless. 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., sharefoodbringhope.org
JANUARY
February 19-20
January 25
Mizzou Percussion & Hickman Wind Ensembles
Missouri Theatre
Enjoy student-performed live music at the Whitmore Recital Hall from the Hickman High School wind ensemble and the percussion ensemble from Mizzou. Admission for students (with ID) is free!
3-8 p.m., $5, music.missouri.edu 25
January 27
Shelly Belly
The Blue Note
Social media star and former contestant on Netfli’s “The Circle” is bringing her Southern charm and wit on tour! Catch Shelly Belly live and unfilered at The Blue Note.
6 p.m., $33-106, thebluenote.com 27
Children's Miracle Network Radiothon Clear99, Y107, The Eagle, KAT Country & KWOS
For 20 years, the Children's Miracle Network Radiothon has raised nearly 4,000,000 dollars to cover the cost of treatment for children at MU Healthcare's Children's Hospital, thanks to local sponsors and volunteers. Get in on the action by donating or sponsoring! info.zimmercommunications.com/childrens-miracle-network-radiothon-learn-more
FEBRUARY
February 13
Unstaged + Unveiled
Missouri Theatre
This unstaged opera performance will feature captivating selections performed by Landlocked Opera, the Columbia Chorale and the Missouri Symphony. 7 p.m., $10-49, comotickets. com/events/unstaged-andunveiled-2-13-2026 13
February 21
Nate Bargatze
Mizzou Arena
Comedian Nate Bargatze, who you might recognize from his feature as George Washington on “Saturday Night Live” or from his hilarity while hosting the Emmys, is bringing his talent to Mizzou Arena.
7 p.m., $60-320, mutigers.com 21
Co at You had me Your All-InclusIve GuIde to locAl love
&
BY: JAne steInBrecher
Photos BY: l.G. PAtterson
desIGn
IllustrAtIons BY: lIlYAnn hAmes
28%58@
Dear Columbia,
Love is in the air ... maybe that’s just allergies.
Are you single? Taken? Telling people “it’s complicated?” Whether you love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so we’re giving you a guide to romance in the region. For readers already in love, we’ve prepared a roadmap to local date nights and florists' picks for arrangements that astonish. For our single readers, we’re listing tips and tricks to meeting your person without the apps (with a few first-date horror stories to remind you it can always be worse), plus our town’s best true love stories.
Consider this our version of a box of chocolates: a variety of romance for everyone.
It's
a
Date
whether you have a new flIng, a spouse or a long-tIme partner, here’s some quIck date-spIratIon for any como couple.
For Music-Lovers
Stop into one of Columbia’s record shops (Hitt Records, B Side Records or King Theodore) and pick out an album on CD or LP to surprise each other with. If you’re not into the physical mediums, catch a show at The Blue Note, Rose Music Hall, The Penguin Piano Bar or any other venue for some live music. Still not your speed? Challenge each other to karaoke at Eastside Tavern.
The Special Occasion
It’s a big night, maybe an anniversary, and you want to step it up. We suggest enjoying steaks and wine at CC’s City Broiler to add a bit of upscale flair to your date night. (We also suggest you order your steak rare, but no one asked us).
The Artsy Edge
Feeling more creative than a dinner date? Take a woodworking class at Sawdust Studios or unwind while painting your own dishes at The Mud Room. For the extra-artsy couples, take a stroll through Orr Street Studios, Serendipity Salon and Gallery, Artlandish or any of our city’s beautiful art galleries.
Meeting the Parents
“Where should we take your parents?” you ask your partner for the ninth time. You get a shrug or an “it’s up to you,” and you’re stressed. Whether your partner’s parents are visiting Columbia for the first time or no one can agree on a spot, there’s something for everyone on the wide-ranging menu at Murry’s. Plus, there’s live jazz to fill any awkward silences.
Love & War
The Traditional
Who doesn’t love dinner and a movie? Give the long-beloved tradition a local spin by taking your date to a movie at Ragtag. Comfy couches, a big ol’ screen, buttery popcorn — what’s not to like? Pop next door for dinner and drinks at Uprise while you’re in the neighborhood.
The Realist
Even those with a wider budget can’t resist the allure of a hot slice of pizza. For a date that won’t break the bank, pick up two slices from Pizza Tree, Shakespeare’s, Gumby’s or any of our local pizzerias, sit with your special someone and enjoy the company. It’s short, sweet and simple — running you about six dollars in total.
Give your night out some healthy competition. Challenge your partner to a pickleball match at The Kitchen or Trail Stop Brewery, or a game of pool at Booches or Billiards. For the less sporty, Level Up, The Tokyo Club and Silverball are just a few of the arcades in town, with tabletop gaming also available at Hexagon Alley. Loser buys dinner?
The Language of
noT sure
whiCh fLowers To piCK? LoCaL fLorisTs weigh
Now that you’ve got your date planned, it’s best not to show up emptyhanded. Luckily, florals are always in season in Columbia with our town's fantastic florists.
Stephanie Whitman, owner of Blooms & Wishes Flowers, suggests shoppers design around a feeling. Bright bouquets like gerbera and market arrangements are a great way to express platonic affection. Colorful, springy flowers for a friend say, “I love you, but don’t get any ideas.” For a romantic partner, Whitman suggests a red panther rose with streaks of hot pink. Garden roses are another option: multipetaled, rounder and more fragrant. Not a rose fan? Whitman says ranunculuses and lisianthuses are popular alternatives for the holiday.
At My Secret Garden, design and operations manager Jessica LaHueSpherex says peonies are a popular choice alongside their long-stem, high petalcount roses, but they’re able to customize any arrangements. While their florals come from all over the world, you can opt
nsider TriCKs To fLoraLs ThaT LasT
for a local touch with dahlias, heliconias, sunflowers and tithonias, which are grown on their farm in Millersburg.
Over 250 million roses are harvested worldwide for Valentine’s Day every year, but at Tiger Gardens, supervisor Lesleighan Cravens says shoppers gravitate toward designer options like snapdragons and orchids over roses. She also notes that you’ll get the highest quality roses outside of the holiday, since high supply and demand may skew the quality of the flowers. Cravens’ underrated favorite is the bicolored carnation, which blends hues of purple and indigo. “People see them as grocery store flowers,” she says, referring to carnations’ typically lower price point. “But these new varieties are just so beautiful.”
We’ve all seen it: your flowers look marvelous on Monday, then they're wilted by Wednesday. Cravens gives her expert advice on making sure your floral arrangements last.
Know your rooTs: A grocery store bouquet won’t last as long as an arrangement from a florist. The dehydrating, handling, rehydrating and refrigerating process should have a professional arrangement looking fresh for seven to 10 days. Knowing your flowers’ history will help set reasonable lifespan expectations.
CarefuL wiTh The CuT: If you’re trimming the flowers yourself, a 45-degree cut optimizes the stems’ water intake rather than cutting horizontally. Avoid using scissors; knives work much better and won’t squash the stem. Then trim off the foliage to avoid mold in the water. eaT good: You know the plastic packet that comes rubber-banded to the base of our flowers: the “food?” Those packets are made up of bactericide, carbohydrates and citric acid to preserve the flowers. Don’t
dump the entire packet in the vase; that’s overfeeding. Instead, sprinkle a little each day, like feeding a fish. Change the water out, too — murky water is a sign that your flowers need the bactericides in their food! If you’re running low on flower food, a few drops of Sprite and either vodka or bleach work as a remedy to keep your flowers perky.
As for the rumor that a penny in the vase prolongs the flowers’ lifespan? Cravens says you’re better off keeping the coins in your wallet.
okaY, single readers: You’re looking for love in columbia. You’re readY to ditch the apps. how hard can that be?
Fed up with the dating game? You're not alone. In a 2025 study by Forbes, 91% of male and 94% of female survey participants said they believe the modern dating scene is more difficult than ever. If you’re sick of swiping, give speed dating a spin. Since August, Just Love Coffee Cafe has been hosting speed dating events at their location on Broadway, separated by age group and sexuality, giving everyone in Columbia a shot at love. They host LGBTQfriendly events for men seeking men and women seeking women along with events for straight singles.
prospects, there’s a “friendzone” option on your match sheet, which allows you to match platonically.
If you’re not feeling speed dating, try meeting people in shared-interest spaces. Hexagon Alley hosts board game nights for players of varying skill levels, themed trivia events and movie nights. Whether you’re looking to find your nerd-of-afeather, make new friends or show off your gaming chops, Hexagon Alley is a great space to find community.
“You know in about 20 minutes or less if You’re going to click or vibe with the human across the table.”
“You know in about 20 minutes or less if you’re going to click or vibe with the human across the table,” owner Bill Watkins says. “It’s an inexpensive, fast, no-pressure way to meet people.”
Attendees reserve tickets online for $27, which includes appetizers, dessert and drinks. You’ll mingle with other attendees through guided conversation, then the staff collects your match sheet and uses it to send you your matches. If you leave an event without any romantic
Book clubs, such as Twain or the ones at Skylark, can introduce you to fellow readers.
Columbia Track Club and other run clubs bring runners together and can help you get to know people who share your love of fitness.
But this isn’t about going somewhere solely to meet someone you’d like to date; it’s about connecting with the community. Diving into your interests and making connections increases confidence and is proven to be beneficial to your mental health.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll meet your match.
sleepless in Columbia
How tougH is tHe dating scene in columbia, really? it depends on wHo you ask, but we asked tHe Hosts of y107’s “Hook up or Hang up.”
For those out of the loop, Hook Up or Hang Up is an ongoing segment on The Cosmo & Kat Show, where callers can seek advice, sympathy or shock for their dating woes. For callers haunted by the ghosting phenomenon, Cosmo and Kat will give the ghost a call for you.
Sometimes, the couple reconnects and they live happily ever after on a second date put on by Kat and Cosmo. “Still waiting for the first Hook Up or Hang Up wedding invitation,” Cosmo says. “It hasn’t come in yet.”
But in most cases, it’s a dating disaster. Here’s a handful of hang ups for a look at the worst of the dating scene.
"(I’m) not likely to forget that date anytime soon. Let’s just say an uninvited guest interrupted the date. A gentleman, I don’t know his name, called the restaurant we were at. The waiter brings me to the phone while (my date is) in the ladies’ room. This guy knew I was at the restaurant with her. He calls me on the date and tells me he still has feelings for her, that they’re working things out and I’d better back off. It’s stalker-y. Is he going to be popping up in my window with a hoodie on? I didn’t sign up for this. I’m out."
“The very first thing he did was take the gum out of his mouth and stick it on the bread plate. Gross. Like, somebody’s going to have to clean that off the plate! And he was really rude to the waiter! He glared at him and told him to 'leave us alone,' when he was just doing his job. I was a server for a few years, and (my date) was the kind of guy no one wants to wait on. I can’t date someone like that.”
“We went on a gym date … let’s just say someone needs to teach him how to be subtle when checking other people out.”
Jackson angela
“I went out with him, then realized halfway through the date that we had already gone out eight years ago and he ghosted me! He didn’t remember me, so I gave him a taste of his own medicine and ghosted him.”
marissa megan zoey
“There were just so many backhanded compliments … so disrespectful. He said, 'you have a 1000-watt smile,' which was nice, then immediately he asked if I’d ever get veneers to fix the chip in my tooth! He said he’s 'trying to look out for me,' but I’m out. The best thing that came out of the date was getting to call my sister afterward and tell her the story!”
Professional matchmaking is a billion-dollar industry worldwide. Yes, billion with a “B.” We reached out to Midwest Matchmaking founder Courtney Quinlan for a look at the industry, which is becoming more and more popular each year.
ICM: Tell us a little bit about how you got started with matchmaking as a career.
Quinlan: It sounded fun and up my alley — I'm definitely a people person, I’ve always loved love and I’m a romantic. So I got started in the industry in 2005 before I started my own agency in 2009. The rest is history; matchmaking’s what I've been doing for the past 20 years of my life.
ICM: So, what exactly is professional matchmaking?
Quinlan: It's kind of like a friend setting you up with a friend. Except for the fact that you're not friends, so there's no personal biases there, and you have a lot more available dates.
ICM: How does your process work?
Quinlan: First, they’ll fill out their information online, which goes directly to me. Then I get to know the potential client during a consultation to determine if the service is a good fit for them. If so, we build them a profile and match them with clients. When two clients say yes, we facilitate the date for them. They don't have to chat, swipe or any of that. Then they go on the date and give us feedback. Ideally, they leave the service in a relationship. And, you know, never need us again.
ICM: How do matchmaking agencies like yours compete with the apps?
Quinlan: Business as a whole just keeps getting better. The apps are easy — anyone can download that on their phone. So many people try (the apps) and they don’t like them for a number of reasons: the ghosting phenomenon, the swiping culture. They just keep swiping and swiping and swiping. People who are trying to find their person get sick of that, which draws a lot of people to us. These apps can be extremely draining, so they let us take the lead, which has increased the industry as a whole.
ICM: What advice would you give to singles trying to navigate the modern dating scene?
Quinlan: Be open-minded. I feel like a lot of singles I talk to will miss out on good opportunities because maybe somebody doesn't look ideal on paper. You have to remember that when you're looking at a profile, it’s one dimensional. You can't get to know somebody until you sit down and spend some time with them.
Love
lives here...
Here are three of the sweetest meet-cutes in town, along with their advice for building relationships that last. Together, these couples have a combined 72 years of marital bliss!
Amanda met John while working for True/False after booking his band, The Onions. John was also just starting to get Pizza Tree off the ground at its original location, which Amanda frequented.
“She had this always-sunny, glass-half-full personality,” John says. “She loved music and her family, which are important to me.”
“We fell in love pretty quickly,” Amanda adds.
Bowling at AMF Town & Country Lanes, where they recently celebrated their 10th anniversary. The couple bowling next to them that night is also now married.
They own three restaurants, all while raising two young children and making music. Amanda runs Goldie's Bagels, John is at Pizza Tree and the two recently bought Main Squeeze. Working together has its good days and bad days, but they say they are grateful to be each other’s support systems. “Amanda’s very creative,” John says. “I help get her ideas into words. I’m also the handyman.”
ADvice
How do you make it work when life is chaotic? “Recognize the privilege of just spending time together,” Amanda says. “Set the time aside once a week and be intentional.”
advice
How do I make sure my love lasts?
then
In 1983, David Bartlett was working the soundboard during a The Bel-Airs concert at The Blue Note when he spotted Lisa in the audience. Immediately, he left his post, headed into the crowd and invited her to dance. The rest, as they say, was history. "We were pretty inseparable from that point on," Lisa says.
“Oh, God, one of those pancake breakfast fundraisers,” Lisa says. “That was our first ever date. I still give him crap for it.”
FiRSt date
The couple has been together for 42 years and married for 37. Both artistically inclined, David does audio work for all three Mizzou arenas and Lisa owns Artlandish Gallery. “As two people in the arts, David has supported me wholeheartedly,” Lisa says. “When things get crazy, he makes me feel like everything will be fine.”
“People should accept their partner for who they are,” Lisa says. “It’s not all bliss and rainbows. You have to be flexible and understand people change and grow, and you grow with them.”
then now
Rebecca and Jason met in the basement of the Arts and Science Building in an international relations lab. Jason sought out Rebecca for homework help, leading them to spend the semester together — then the rest of their lives. In fact, three other couples in that lab ended up getting married.
FiRSt date
Dinner at the now-closed Blue Cactus, a Mexican restaurant off Providence Road. This was also (somehow) the first time Rebecca had ever tried Mexican food.
now
After marrying, they settled in Kansas City before Rebecca pivoted from pursuing law to pursuing pies. “I asked him, ‘You know that law school debt?’” she says. “I said, ‘I wanna make pies with mom instead.’”
Rebecca is now running Peggy Jean’s Pies fulltime, slowly taking over the three-generation family business. Jason works part-time, keeping the behindthe-scenes finances in order.
“I never envisioned a life centered around pies,” Jason says. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Alongside pies, they have also raised two children.
advice
What’s the secret ingredient to 25 years of marriage? “Communicating through the good and the bad, not dragging out arguments with a cold shoulder,” Rebecca says. “It’s also important to know what the other person needs and try your best to give them that. It’s all about being thoughtful and putting in effort.”
Whether it's the best day of the year or just another Saturday, happy Valentine’s Day, Columbia. May the flowers be fresh, the first date go perfectly, the chocolate be sweet and the wine keep flowing.
Find Your Fit at a Local Gym.
By Bailey Rizzo
Photos by L.G. Patterson and Ava Kitzi
With the new year right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about resolutions. At the top of almost everyone’s list is probably “get in shape” or “start a new hobby.” Luckily, Columbia has no shortage of options to check off both of those goal. Whether you’re looking to lift on your own, join a yoga studio or try out a group class, there’s a gym for every journey. Let this be your guide to kickstart your fitness eats, learn something new or find a ommunity that is built upon a shared passion.
For the Adventure Seeker CoMo Rocks
205 E. Nifong Blvd., suite 120 comorocks.com
With the largest climbing community in the Midwest, it only felt right for CoMo Rocks co-owner and general manager Wil Palmieri to open a world-class climbing gym in the heart of Missouri. “One of my passions is building that community where we can all come together, share information and motivate each other,” he says.
Climbing is a great option for a workout, challenging your agility, core strength, mind, body awareness, spatial connections and more. “When you’re climbing, you’re really engaging more than you probably would at the gym,” Palmieri says. “I see people come in all the time, and they build muscle tone so fast because they’re having fun and they don’t even realize how much effot they’re putting in.”
Routes are changed each week, so climbers have new paths to follow. Palmieri says one of the great things about climbing is that it isn’t competitive. “Everyone fails at some point, but the more you fail, the more satisfied you feel when you do succeed,” he says. “And then everyone is clapping and cheering, and it doesn’t matter who you are.”
While there are membership options, most people opt for a day pass to the gym, which is valid for the full day, even if you leave and come back. For first-time climbers, the staff ill give a brief orientation, so no prior experience is required. “They’re kind of like lifeguards on duty … they’re looking around if people seem lost or not sure what to do, making sure everyone is having fun,” Palmieri says.
Whether you’re planning a date night, an activity with the kids or a coporate outing, CoMo Rocks is prepared to cater to your needs. “It’s something new and fresh to try, and it’s also great for group events,” Palmieri says. “People love climbing, and it surprises a lot of people how fun and accessible it is.”
For the Heavy Hitter
Evolved Personal Training
200 E. Southampton Drive, lower level evolvedpt.com
Evolved Personal Training works best for busy professionals, parents and those who want structure, accountability and lasting results, while still enjoying a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that feels like a supportive community. “It’s a place you actually look forward to visiting,” co-owner Scott Schutte says.
Opened in 2010, Evolved has grown to be a leading gym trusted by physical therapists, chiropractors, orthopedic surgeons and medical doctors. Evolved specializes in one-on-one personal training, tailored specifically to each client’s goals, abilities and schedule. The gym also offes small group training, recovery services and 360-degree wellness coaching, which encompasses sleep, nutrition, stress management and lifestyle habits. “Whether someone’s goal is to lose weight, get stronger, recover from an injury or feel younger and move better, we design programs that fit real life,” Schutte says.
The first visit starts with a discovery meeting with Schutte or co-owner Nate Kesterson to review your goals, history and preferences. Together, a plan is developed that takes this conversation into consideration, along with your schedule and budget. “There are no long-term commitments; we adjust your plan regularly to meet your evolving needs and progress,” Schutte says. “Every program is customized to meet you where you are and built to help you see steady, lasting results.”
The team at Evolved goes far beyond counting reps. Everyone collaborates to ensure each client receives a consistent, high-quality experience from start to finish. “Evolved isn’t a crowded gym or a place where you’re left on your own,” Schutte says. “It’s a private, supportive environment designed for individuals seeking expert guidance and tangible results.”
For the Aerial Athlete Muse Pole Fitness
3605 S. Providence Road, suite 5 musepolefitnes.com
Pole dancing isn’t just for the clubs; it’s actually a great way to unwind, find your balance and engage every muscle group. Alongside cultural attitude shifts and social media visibility, the activity grew in popularity with decreased stigma. When Jordan Mazur moved to Columbia, she found there weren’t any options for pole fitness — so she created her own.
Muse Pole Fitness now has nine instructors, offeing a variety of classes in pole dancing, lyra (using an aerial hoop), stretching and flexibility, strength and conditioning, floor work, chair dancing and more. “Our classes are great for people of all ages, genders and body types … for people who like dancing and having fun,” Mazur says. “As long as you have an open mind about doing something diffeent, it’s great for everyone.”
The studio’s comprehensive syllabus of moves and exercises is designed for safe progression regardless of your body type. Everyone progresses completely at their own pace, with tiered levels of classes. For example, a level one class might start with walking around the pole, getting comfortable and learning a spin. As you advance, you’ll move higher on the pole or start going upside down.
For anyone wondering whether you can really get a workout in this sort of class, Mazur says the sorest she has ever been was after taking her first class. “It is definitely a full-body workout,” she says. “You’re using your legs for diffeent sit-based things or pushing yourself up. Your arms are supporting your weight as you do spins. Even the warmup is Pilates-based for some elements.”
One of the biggest myths people believe about pole fitness is that they feel like they need to have upper-body or core strength before starting. “You definitely don’t — anybody can come in and do it,” Mazur says. “It’s all about showing up for that first class.”
For the Limit Pusher
CrossFit Fringe
901 Old 63 N.
crossfitfinge.com
Most people probably envision CrossFit as burly bodybuilders throwing maxed-out barbells over their heads and onto the ground. But at CrossFit Fringe, the mission is to educate, entertain and inspire. Since its inception in 2009, Fringe teaches people to move well first, emphasizing longevity, safety and effctiveness. “Our goal isn’t to break you down, but to build you up for life outside of the gym,” owner and founder Tyler Lasley says. “That’s one of the things that makes CrossFit so special: it’s functional fitness with a purpose.”
That purpose comes in the form of community. From quarterly events to the members themselves, Fringe has had deep ties to Columbia for nearly 20 years. “We are certainly known for being community-driven, and we like to foster a welcoming environment,” Lasley says. “That starts with the members before the coaches; it’s a very supportive, inclusive group.”
Fringe offes classes for every age, with members ranging from six to 73. Meeting people where they are is at the core of every class. Your experience at Fringe starts with a “no-sweat intro,” where a coach will get to know you and learn more about your goals. “Having an open mind and not having an ego are the first two steps,” Lasley says. “It’s okay to be a little afraid or overwhelmed at first. If you were the best at everything you tried right away, you wouldn’t try new things.”
The biggest takeaway Lasley aims to instill in CrossFit members is that everything is scalable to help you feel better and live better. “Even if you’re brand new and you’ve never done any of these things, you can train and work out right next to someone who was an elite athlete, and the only diffeence is the weights and maybe some movement modifications,” he says. “It’s not about how heavy you lift, but about consistency, effot and growth.”
For the Warrior Within
Cavalo Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
601 Business Loop 70 W., suite 208
cavalobjj.com
Jiu jitsu is a ground-based martial art focused on using leverage and positions to apply submission holds against an opponent or subdue them with a dominant position. “It’s a really functional workout for the whole body — aerobic and anaerobic,” Cavalo BJJ founder and 4th-degree black belt Zach Lenon says. “I’ve had people in here who could run a five-minute mile or bench 300 pounds, but they’re tired after one roll.”
The art was initially developed as a “smaller man’s game,” which makes it fit for anyone. “If you have some natural attributes, that’s great, but it’s not required,” Lenon says. “I’ve had students over the years who were more slender, and I’ve always enjoyed watching them take on bigger people who thought they would just overpower them; jiu jitsu prevailed.”
As the first jiu jitsu gym in Columbia, Cavalo started as a small group of people in a cramped space with no heat or air conditioning. Now, it has expanded to offer outh and adult classes throughout the week, during the day and in the evening. There is also a women’s only class, taught by the first female black belt in mid-Missouri. “It’s a family-owned and -run gym, which I’m really proud of,” Lenon says. “My kids train and help teach classes, and many of my other coaches have kids in the classes too. I just want this to be a place that people feel a sense of community.”
Lenon aims to ease anxiety about starting the sport by introducing students to the diffeent positions and movements, letting them get comfortable with the close proximity and physical contact. While it is a competitive sport by nature, friends are quickly made after the timer goes off. “If someone taps you out, they’ll show you how they did it or how to defend yourself,” Lenon says. “But really, your main competitor is yourself trying to get better each night.”
Whether you’re looking at jiu jitsu for self-defense, competition or just a good workout, Cavalo has built a community of ranging ages, abilities, occupations and more that come together for the love of the sport.
For the Groove Getter Jazzercise Columbia
10 W. Nifong Blvd., suite 105 jazzercise.com/studio/mo/como-jazzercise
Jazzercise was developed in 1969, but continues to adapt and grow in popularity based on current fitness trends, incorporating dance movements with aerobics, cardio and strength training. “There’s something to be said about a fitness program that’s been around for that long and evolved over time,” owner Danielle Corrado says. “And it’s a fitness program that people stick with for a lifetime.”
Corrado, who took her first class nearly 15 years ago, says the Jazzercise community has built a positive environment for continued growth. “Sometimes the gym can feel like a chore and it can be hard to get yourself there,” she says. “It’s easier to be consistent when you’re having fun and seeing your friends at each workout.”
That community is built by magic, according to Corrado. “It’s just the way Jazzercisers are,” she says. “It’s contagious. And because we’ve been around for so many years, we also have these multi-generational friendships that form. The people younger than us make us feel more energized, and the people older than us provide insights and wisdom we don’t have yet.”
Jazzercise classes are built for any age or fitness level, and every movement can be modified for higher or lower impact. “That’s what makes it so inclusive and welcoming," Corrado says. "You have diffeent ages and fitness levels all together, trying to get physically and mentally stronger.” It’s more than just old women in leg warmers and leotards, like it’s still the ‘80s. Corrado encourages everyone to try a class out just once to see for themselves.
For the Mindful Mover
Sumits Hot Yoga
505 E. Nifong Blvd., suite 103 sumitsyogacolumbia.com
A common misconception about hot yoga is that the heat will be too much to handle, but Sumits co-owners Amy Marler and Elizabeth Siefkas say your body actually acclimates to the high temperature very quickly. “It’s amazing how your body can utilize the heat and humidity to get a better workout and detox,” Siefkas says. Marler agrees, adding that it’s less about how much you sweat, and more about how much you grow. “If you can make it through these things, staying calm, focused and steady in stress, then hopefully that will translate off our mat,” she says. “I think the big myth is that you’re in there to die, but you’re really in there to learn.”
One of the great things about yoga — specifically at Sumits — is you get to put in exactly what you want out of it. Whether that’s an intense workout or a mental disconnect, the instructors are with you all the way. “We don’t care who you are, where you came from or what your background is,” Marler says. “We just want to be a space that is inviting to all where you can get exactly what you need in the 60 minutes you’re here.”
Sumits offes over 40 classes per week, both heated and unheated, that are accessible for all levels of experience. The first class is free, and typically consists of a warmup, diffeent poses, a four-part flow, some cardio and a cooldown on your mat. “It’s one of the most rewarding things from a teacher standpoint: seeing people’s progress, seeing how hard they work and recognizing that,” Siefkas says.
Everyone has a choice of where they go to get their fitness, but Marler credits the Sumits community as the reason people keep coming back. “We really try to get to know our clients, not just about their practice or their bodies, but how we can support them in every part of life,” she says. “We want to be a place where they feel supported both on and off heir mat every time they come in.”
For the Fitness Explorer
Wilson’s Fitness
2902 Forum Blvd. | 2601 Rangeline St. wilsonsfitnes.com
If you’re still reading and can’t decide what’s right for you, try Wilson’s Fitness. This gym, family-owned and operated for 43 years, offes a wide array of services to meet your every need. From full access to free weights and machines, a six-lane pool and steam rooms/saunas to group classes, personal training and childcare, there’s something for everyone at Wilson’s. Marketing Director Ashton Robinson says the goal of every employee is to help you move better, feel better and live better. “We meet people where they are,” she says. “We don’t want anyone to not enjoy working out, but to just find something that they love doing.”
Your first visit at Wilson’s is always free, and will include a tour of the facility from one of their staff memers. “It all starts at the front desk with being welcoming and making sure everyone feels loved,” Robinson says. Beyond coming in to work out on their own, members have access to personal coaching and group classes — including yoga, barre, rowing, water aerobics and more. “Sometimes coming to the gym is intimidating at first, but change happens outside of your comfort zone,” Robinson says. “With the wide variety of things Wilson’s has to offe, there’s something for everyone to love while exercising.”
Memberships are available at diffeent tiers, which include diffeent levels of gym access, and can be paid on a monthly or yearly basis. Additionally, members have access to both the Forum and Rangeline locations, as well as the outdoor pool and Beach Club pool.
No matter what type of movement motivates you — lifting, dancing, stretching, climbing or rolling on the mats — Columbia’s fitness community has a place for you. Each gym offes more than just a workout; they offer ommunity, encouragement and a reminder that fitness can actually be fun. So as the new year approaches, skip the cookie-cutter resolutions and find the routine that truly fits you. After all, the best workout is the one that makes you want to come back.
Sleigh the Season with Local Attire this Winter.
In Missouri, you never know if a winter day will be sunny, rainy or surprise you with a few feet of snow, so it’s important to get the gear that's trendy all season long. To be prepared for any outdoor occasion, we’ve curated a selection of local looks and accessories to help you cozy up in style. Whether you prefer a more rustic look or are seeking classic pieces, this is the perfect comfy-cozy collection. So bundle up, Columbia. It’s cold out there!
1: Fringe Corduroy Jacket: $95
2: Fringe Knit Shearling Jacket: $138
3: Bass Pro Vest: $160; Bass Pro
Thermal: $24.99
3
Styled by: Zola Heck and Ava Kitzi Photos by: Ava Kitzi
Modeled by: Maddi Schmidt, Vesta Hotchkiss and Sam Hutmacher Noordsy
4: Alpine Shop Sweater: $130, Alpine Shop Joggers: $94.99, Bass Pro Sneakers: $34.99
5: Bass Pro Thermal: $24.99, Alpine Shop Sweatpants: $98, Bass Pro Slippers: $39.99
6: Alpine Shop Leggings: $120, Bass Pro Slippers: $49.99
7: Bass Pro White Beanie: $14.99, Alpine Shop Sweater: $110, Bass Pro Jeans: $59.99
8: Bass Pro Headband: $17.99, Fringe Sweater Dress: $140
9: Bass Pro Green Beanie: $14.99, Fringe Coat: $139, Alpine Shop Sweatpants: $94.99
10: Bass Pro Headband: $17.99, Alpine Shop Sweater: $130
Meet Landon,
the insurance expert who’s investing in your future by keeping you safe on the road this winter.
The winter season brings icy roads, slick streets and unpredictable weather. Landon says being prepared for winter driving is the best way to stay safe: keep your gas on a full tank, keep deicer handy and have a scraper ready. If an accident should occur on the snowy roads, Landon recommends staying in your vehicle if able and calling the police. He also suggests investing in a dash camera and to keep the phones down. But just as important as these safety tips for winter driving is having reliable auto insurance.
Having reliable auto insurance and understanding your policy is key. Landon says some policyholders may overlook rental insurance and liability limit policies when these are vital aspects of your plan. Luckily, with insurance like Landon Ball’s ÿrm at State Farm, you’re never left out of the loop. You’ll understand your policy in full, even knowing ways to save on coverage with the safe driving programs State Farm o°ers. For auto insurance that keeps you secure all winter long, go with the Landon Ball Agency and ÿnd a good neighbor.
Want to learn how to save on auto insurance? Need to see more safe driving tips for winter? Scan the QR code below for a full video from Landon.
Scan to watch! Or call (660) 248-2424
You’re renovating your house, your car’s making a weird noise or you need to get your finanes in order — you’ve got a million questions and it seems like there’s a million different answers. You could just turn to Google, but after sifting through the results, who’s to say which advice is best? Rather than asking the internet, ask the experts instead. This Inside Columbia special section provides the answers to your most pressing questions, directly from the local pros.
Jeff Brooks Manager
Born and raised in Columbia, Jeff Brooks is dedicated to providing topnotch, expert remodels to the bathrooms and kitchens of Columbia. After 21 years of hands-on experience in the business, climbing from appliance specialist to manager, Brooks knows the building and remodeling process like the back of his hand. He says choosing a trusted source
Is it worth it to remodel my bathroom?
Remodeling your bathroom is one of the most worthwhile investments to make, not only for your home, but for your life. Updating older bathrooms increases the resale value of your home, whether it be adjusting the aesthetic, replacing outdated hardware or a full remodel. Replacing older tub and shower units with newer tubs and walls allows for more space in the bathroom and provides a more relaxing and enjoyable shower system. Beyond that, remodeling your bathroom ensures longlasting quality. If you aren’t selling and intend for this place to be your forever home, that is all the more reason to remodel your bathroom. Updating for accessibility needs allows homeowners to age in place. This may include adding walk-in, lower threshold shower systems with grab bars, seats and hand showers to make them safer, replacing tub and shower units or making your bathroom wheelchair-accessible. Whatever your situation may be, keeping an updated bathroom that fits our comfort level — for resale value, for your forever home or for aging in place — is one of the best investments you can make in your home.
like DKB is integral to the completion of your project. “If you go to a non-trusted source that has not had training, is not backed by a company or employees that have knowledge, your project will suffer,” he says.
At DKB, the team undergoes rigorous training and hands-on experience to build expertise. Their sales staff alone has 130
years of cumulative experience in the fiel. DKB’s dedicated experts will have your remodel completed on time with clear communication along the way. Beyond that, Brooks says the team at DKB has passion for their jobs and clear dedication to each client — dedication you need when making an investment in your home. Designer Kitchens & Baths
Can chiropractic therapy help me reduce the use of drugs while pregnant?
In today’s health care environment, many people find themseles wanting alternatives to drugs and pharmaceuticals. Pregnancy is one of the conditions where many people want to limit or reduce their dependency on drugs for various issues, including pain. Chiropractic care can be a big help here. As a certifiedWebster practitioner, I specialize in the care of pregnant women and infants who do not want to use drugs for pain alleviation or other issues common to pregnancy. Chiropractic care has been shown to alleviate, and in some cases eliminate, a lot of the discomfort associated with the changes of pregnancy without the use of potentially harmful drugs. Recent studies indicate that the use of over-the-counter pain remedies may be a risk for newborn babies and drug companies have even advised limiting their use as much as possible. In my practice, I work with midwives and expectant mothers to help deliver the best possible outcomes with the lowest risk possible.
James Zielinski Owner
Jand
reflux, shoulder
and others. As a chiropractor, Dr. James realized that if people got chiropractic care early in life, they could avoid a lot of the chronic health problems they develop later in life, instead of just chasing after them with pills and surgeries that just create other problems. In order to apply this thinking to practical use, Dr. James pursued his certifiction in Webster Chiropractic care for pregnancy and pediatrics with the ICPA and has managed hundreds of pregnancies and infants in his career.
Shane Garrett, owner of Garrett Painting, has spent over half of his life mastering the painting trade with education and hands-on experience. He wants to take this passion and knowledge to alleviate the stress of a painting project, which can be overwhelming — especially in an age where misinformation and bad advice runs rampant, from TikTok tutorials to DIY blogs. But a trusted resource brings truth, not trends. The professionals at Garrett Painting don't just know what color is popular this season — they know how surface prep affects adhesion, how climate
How does painting my cabinets add value to my home?
Painting or refinishing our cabinets adds value to a home by instantly refreshing and protecting surfaces, enhancing your home’s charm and creating a clean, updated look that attracts buyers. I t's one of the most affordable ways to increase market value while also improving how your space feels. The right cabinet color or finish can make rooms feel larger, brighter and more welcoming — turning a house into a home and enhancing both its financial and emotional worth.
Shane Garrett Owner
influenes product choice and how the wrong shortcut can turn a "quick project" into a costly redo.
Trusted professionals share more than knowledge; they share accountability, experience and care for your home's longterm health. Just like a well-prepared wall holds paint that endures, good decisions are built on trustworthy information.
When you seek guidance from professionals who value integrity, education and craftsmanship, you don't just protect your home — you invest in your peace of mind. At Garrett Painting, they believe that trust
is part of the finish.They educate their clients, because understanding the process creates confidene and confidene creates satisfaction. Their role isn't just to paint your home; it's to ensure every choice you make reflets lasting value, both in your home and in your life.
Clients choose Garrett Painting because they know what to expect: honesty, consistency and care. At the end of the day, their goal isn't just to paint walls. It's to leave the homeowners feeling confidet, cared for and proud of the space they live in.
Why is it important to focus on your personal finances when ou are starting a business?
It is vital to have a solid personal financial oundation when starting a business. Unless you have private investors or business partners who are willing to fund your start-up, you will eventually need to obtain funding from a local financial institution o scale your business. If your business doesn't have financial hisory, you will personally represent your business. And if you're struggling, the bank assumes the business will too.
Jamie Wallingford Capital Access Program Manager
Missouri Women's
Business
Center 807 N. Providence Road 573-818-2980 | mowbc.org
With the introduction of AI, and its ability to answer any question, Jamie Wallingford, the Capital Access Program manager at the Missouri Women’s Business Center, says it’s crucial now more than ever to have a trusted resource to answer life’s most important questions. “As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, it’s essential to intentionally build a strong business ecosystem made up of individuals and partners who are committed to your success," she says. The truth is, it really does take a village.” Through the Capital Access Program at the WBC, they have identified a citical gap in the startup funding process,
which helped jumpstart the microlending program. “I work directly with individuals to build a strong personal financia foundation, while they collaborate with their business coach to develop a solid business plan,” Wallingord says.
Since 2005, Wallingford has been strengthening her knowledge in the financial industy and, more recently, in the non-profit orld to help people learn how to manage their money. “My ability to help individuals budget, learn to save, pay off deb, prepare for large purchases and more really allowed the members I serve to gain the trust in me as well as the knowledge and financial lieracy that I was
providing to them,” she says. As a certified financial oach, Wallingford can help you succeed and find financial eedom, just as she once had to do. “There is not one thing I have not seen or experienced personally, and because of that, my ability to connect and build trust stands the test of time.”
Wallingford and her team understand that financial bariers are one of the main reasons so many businesses don’t make it past their first ear. “Grant funding can only go so far, which is why building a strong business ecosystem is essential to long-term success.”
Cindy Mutrux Part Owner
Vehicles make our lives go ’round. They transport us to work, to the grocery store to feed our families, take our children to appointments and get us where we need to be, safely and on time. So why wouldn’t you trust your vehicle with anyone but the experts? At Mutrux Automotive, they employ two master techs — talent the big dealerships might not have. Cindy and her team at Mutrux have spent over 25 years in business, keep -
Why are appointments necessary?
As a locally owned family business, our customers are our top priority, which is why we ask for appointments to be made. Appointments allow us to give each customer the attention to detail they deserve. We need the proper time to look over the vehicle from top to bottom and assure safety. Our vehicles are tools to get us back and forth, so regular maintenance is key to their longevity and reliability. Plan ahead for an appointment, just as you would do for a doctor's visit — except you get to see us much quicker and a live person is on the other end of the phone.
ing Columbia’s vehicles in tip-top shape. Superior knowledge and skill isn’t where Mutrux’s advantage over the chain shops ends, though. It’s their personal connection to the community that drives Mutrux to provide excellent service every time.
“We like to get to know our customers on a personal level,” Cindy says. “We are not a quick lube that pushes you in and out. We care about your family and our community. We’re a small hidden gem on
the corner of Rollins Road.”
Not only are Cindy and her team at Mutrux the true experts of automotive repair, they’re staples of our city. Small businesses like Mutrux Automotive are the lifeblood of the community. Rather than trusting corporate dealerships or quick fies, go with the local, familiar faces by making an appointment at Mutrux.
What does it really mean to have a banker who meets you where you are?
To me, it means being available when life happens — not just during "banker's hours." Sometimes that looks like answering a text in the evening, sometimes it's meeting before the bank opens at a coffee shop and sometimes it's simply taking extra time to figue out a unique situation. Our team molds the box around our customers instead of squeezing them into one. It's about truly understanding our customers' business, building trust, being approachable and making banking feel a whole lot more personal.
Jennifer Williamson Vice President, Operations NMLS# 1986681
Jennifer Williamson, vice president of operations at First Midwest Bank, says she takes pride in making finanes feel more personal for customers.
“Over the years, I realized how impersonal financial sevices can feel, and I like to do things differently,” she says. “I've built a team that puts people firs, treats customers like family and creates a place where ‘going the extra mile’ is the standard.”
Williamson and her team will always
make sure each customer feels taken care of, no matter what they are looking for.
“If that means answering late-night questions, meeting at a tailgate or researching a unique situation, we're in,” she says. “Our job is to make customers feel heard and supported every step of the way.”
Willamson joined this industry to genuinely help people, so when working with her team, you get more than “just
banking” — you get a partnership that will last a lifetime.
“Our customers know they can reach us when they need us, not just during office hours. We see them in the community, we know their families and we celebrate their wins right alongside them,” she says. “That kind of connection, backed by a team that treats going above and beyond as simply part of the job, is why people choose us and stay with us.”
John Shikles Partner
When looking for a personal injury lawyer, it’s important to talk directly with an attorney who can apply up-to-date and relevant legal principles to your specific sitution.
John Shikles, a partner at Carson & Coil, P.C., says when working with his team, every claim will be treated differently. “We will give you a genuine analysis and only ask you to hire us if we believe we can achieve the outcome you deserve,” he says. Shikles’ passion grew from watching his
Who pays after a personal injury jury verdict?
The vast majority of personal injury verdicts are paid by insurance companies — not individuals. Yet, many hesitate to claim compensation for their injuries, fearing they will be perceived as greedy or hostile. At-fault parties worry about their assets and reputation. Fortunately, liability insurance exists to protect everyone: covering losses and aiding the injured. Whether you are harmed or responsible, don't fear the legal system; it safeguards your rights regardless of which side you find ourself on in a personal injury case.
Carson & Coil, P.C. 515 E. High St., suite 401 573-636-2177 | carsoncoil.com
parents, who spent their careers in service to others. "I discovered personal injury law allows me to help good people facing the biggest struggles of their life," he says. “It is a life of service.” For the past ten years, Shikles has been focused on the legal rights of everyday people. “I have tried cases all over mid-Missouri and do not hesitate to take my clients' cases to trial when necessary. I believe personal injury practice is an art, not just a business,” he says. When working in personal injury law, it’s
important to have an experienced, caring and compassionate team with a track record of success for clients to lean on. "The team at Carson & Coil is recognized for legal innovation in personal injury and insurance law. Our attorneys are good people willing to prioritize clients' physical and financial ell-being in every case," he says. “Being a successful personal injury attorney requires genuine compassion, creativity, dedication and resilience.”
When should homeowners consider replacing their garage door instead of continuing repairs?
There are generally two main reasons to replace a garage door or opener. The first is duing a remodel or home improvement project, when an updated door can enhance curb appeal, safety and energy efficiey. The second is when the existing system begins to fail or needs frequent repairs. If the door becomes noisy, unreliable or difficulto operate, replacement is often the most practical and cost-effective way to restore dependable performance (in some instances).
Whether you are looking to repair your garage door or looking for an upgrade, Matt Kollmeyer, the owner of G.P. Construction Services, says he and his team can tackle any project.
“Our company has brought together a talented team with skills across multiple areas, so we can help homeowners with everything from repairs to upgrades,” he says. “It's been rewarding to build a group that combines experience, knowledge and a dedication to providing practical, reliable guidance to every customer.” When looking to make a change to
Matt Kollmeyer Owner
your garage door, Kollmeyer says findin a trusted source to handle a crucial part of your home is a necessity. “Garage doors and openers play a big role in your home's safety and reliability," he says. "Professional guidance ensures the information you receive is accurate and based on real experience, not guesswork." Fixing or upgrading your garage door can be overwhelming, as there are an abundance of choices to make. Working with Kollmeyer and his team ensures a seamless process and results that match each customer’s vision.
“We guide clients through these choices with in-depth knowledge of garage door lines, such as CHI garage doors and LiftMaster openers, helping them select a solution that fits their home' style, functionality and budget,” he says. Whatever project you’re tackling at home, G.P. Construction Services has the expertise and commitment to make it happen. “Our clients choose us because of our commitment to quality, attention to detail and dedication to providing honest, reliable guidance,” Kollmeyer says.
Jaclyn Rogers Client Relations Manager
Jaclyn Rogers, the client relations manager at Ai Painting Plus has been in the residential painting industry for nearly four years, coming from a strong background of customer service. This allows her to guide each project safely and successfully, ensuring the team provides the best service possible — painting joy into people's homes. She prioritizes teamwork, communication and building strong client
How can I guarantee the lasting success of my residential painting project?
One thing I always tell homeowners is that the success of any residential painting project really comes down to the preparation. At Ai Painting Plus, we know that what happens before the first brush st oke makes all the difference in how the finish looks and how long it lasts.
Proper prep means protecting surfaces with clean, straight taping and masking, carefully covering floors and funiture, repairing drywall, sanding where needed and ensuring every surface is clean and ready to accept paint. Skipping these steps often leads to paint that chips, peels or looks uneven. Taking the time to do it right ensures crisp lines, a smooth finish and pait that holds up for years.
Beyond the technical side, we also believe preparation includes clear communication — making sure homeowners know what to expect and when. From helping choose the best paint products to keeping you informed throughout the project, we combine expert craftsmanship with unmatched customer service. If you want your painting project to last and truly add beauty to your home, trust a team that values both meticulous prep and consistent communication from start to finish
relationships to guide the client every step of the way, from the vital preparation stage to delivering high-quality results.
Building relationships and educating homeowners on their projects are skills Rogers has that are just as important as being able to paint.
“I help clients overcome these concerns by taking the time to listen, to clearly explain the process and to set realistic ex-
pectations,” she says. “I focus on educating homeowners, providing transparent bids and coordinating trusted professionals to ensure high-quality results. My goal is to build confidene and trust so clients feel secure throughout the entire project.”
For any residential painting project, you need an expert to guide you to your ideal end result. Trust the experts — trust Ai Painting Plus.
My child's vision keeps getting worse — can an optometrist do more than update their glasses?
Yes. Optometrists do far more than prescribe glasses; we’re primary eye-care doctors who manage everything from routine vision changes to complex medical eye conditions. For children, one of the most important advances is myopia control, which helps slow or even stop nearsightedness from worsening.
At Andrew Stone Optometry, we offer proven options like Or thokeratology, MiSight® lenses, Atropine therapy and advanced spectacle designs to protect long-term vision and reduce the risk of eye disease later in life. Every recommendation we make is guided by evidence, clinical testing and a deep understanding of each patient’s unique needs.
Optometrists are trained medical professionals who look beyond glasses and contacts, evaluating how the eyes interact with the whole body. At Andrew Stone Optometry, we’re proud to be that trusted, local resource Columbia families turn to for lifelong vision and eye health.
Eye health is more than clear vision — it’s medical care that deserves a personal approach. “One-sizefits-all advie doesn’t work,” says Dr. Sarah Wolf of Andrew Stone Optometry. “Online posts can oversimplify or even misrepresent conditions like myopia, dry eye or glaucoma, and that can delay proper care.”
Dr. Wolf earned her Doctor of Optom-
etry degree from the Southern College of Optometr y in 2018 and began her career in Kansas City, where she designed and implemented a myopia management program centered on atropine therapy and MiSight® lenses.
After joining Andrew Stone Optometry, she expanded her expertise to include Orthokeratology, integrating it into a comprehensive, evidence-based approach for
Columbia families.
“When you visit us, you’ll feel that passion immediately,” she says. “We combine advanced medical technology with genuine, personal care — whether you’re here for preventive exams, urgent issues like pink eye or abrasions, or long-term disease management such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.”
Dr. Sarah Wolf Optometrist
Joshua Russell Restoration Project Manager
Working with a trusted resource is especially important when dealing with property restoration. Joshua Russell, the restoration project manager at Brian Wear Plumbing and Restoration, says working with him and his team will leave you feeling secure that your home is in good hands. “Mold spores are invisible to the naked eye; proper containment, moisture control, and adherence to industry guidelines are essential,” he says. “Working with certified pofessionals gives property owners confidene that their home is being cared
How much mold is too much mold?
There's no one-size-fits-all standad for how much mold is "too much." Environmental conditions vary greatly from one region to another, so national limits can't be applied to every home. The ultimate goal is prevention — keeping homes clean and dry, and addressing water leaks promptly. When a leak occurs, it's essential to dry the area immediately. If mold growth is suspected, removing affected materials under proper containment and negative pressure is critical to prevent cross-contamination and protect the rest of the property.
for correctly.” Since 2004, Russell has been working in the restoration fiel, helping people create healthy environments to come home to every day. “What started as a career change quickly became a passion," he says. "I discovered how rewarding it is to help my neighbors restore their homes and create healthy, safe environments for their families.” No matter what issue you are dealing with at home, Russell and his team will work tirelessly to solve the problem and communicate along the way. “Whether that means recommending further work or
reassuring them that they've done a great job maintaining their property, my goal is to replace worry with understanding and confidene,” he says. With his seven cer tifications with the IICRC, including advanced training in Microbial Remediation and Structural Drying, Russell is able to make sure every project is performed according to the industry's highest technical and safety standards. “Our clients appreciate that we take the time to explain the process, address their concerns and restore peace of mind along with their property,” he says.
What does full coverage car insurance mean?
To truly have "full coverage" on automobile insurance, you would need to have liability, medical payments, comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, emergency road service, car rental coverage, uninsured motorist, underinsured motorist, death, dismemberment and loss of sight, and loss of earnings. The confusion comes in because some of the above coverages are optional and have to be chosen to be included in one's policy. Phyllis and her team make sure they are communicating with all clients about what their options are when it comes to auto insurance coverage. It’s important for people to not only know their coverage options, but understand them so they can make an informed decision when it comes to getting comprehensive coverage.
Phyllis Nichols Agent/Owner
to
No matter what coverage you are searching for, Nichols and her team will work tirelessly to make sure you have the policy and outcome you need.
“Whether they are seeking coverage or needing help with a claim, we are there walking side by side with them to help determine a positive outcome for them,” she says.
Codie Snodgrass, owner of Elite Wastewater Solutions, has a passion for hard work and serving mid-Missouri. He says his passion stems from growing up in small businesses and gaining experience in management and customer service, along with over a decade of hands-on equipment operations and extensive certifictions, licenses and education that ensures your wastewater is handled properly.
“I look forward to serving Missouri in all wastewater challenges and will continue to grow and serve others achieving wastewater solutions and more,” Snodgrass says.
Elite Wastewater Solutions specializes in
How can microbes benefit my wastewater?
Microbes are natural and essential organisms that break down organic materials in lagoons, septic tanks, lift stations, grease traps and more. Microbes play a huge role in environmental health and wastewater treatment. Without microbes, sludge and grease simply wouldn't break down, causing excessive buildup in wastewater sewer lines and systems. Microbes can be used for preventative maintenance, large remediation and anything in between. Microbes are all-natural, chemical-free and a great addition to anything wastewater-related. Microbes will optimize any wastewater system to meet regulatory limits and improve efflut quality with targeted biological treatment.
Codie Snodgrass Owner
tailored wastewater treatment solutions for residential, commercial, municipal and agricultural applications. With extensive industry experience and a comprehensive resource base, the company offers customized services designed to meet the diverse needs of their clientele. Their environmentally conscious approach utilizes existing wastewater system cells to effectively remediate accumulation, ensuring optimal performance and sustainability. Elite Wastewater Solutions minimizes the need for large equipment and is non-invasive to surrounding environments during the treatment process. Their expertise extends
beyond lagoon wastewater treatment to encompass a wide range of compliance treatments, preventive maintenance for lift stations and sewer lines and various other wastewater management needs.
By partnering with Elite Wastewater Solutions, clients gain access to a wealth of industry expertise, cutting-edge treatment methodologies and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Snodgrass and his team at Wastewater cultivate enduring relationships with their clients, ensuring the long-term efficiey and environmental compliance of their wastewater systems.
What is Children’s Fine
Art Photography?
Fine Art Children Photography captures genuine personality through emotive, minimalistic and magical images. Using natural light and beautiful settings as backgrounds, I seek candid expressions, smiles and authentic poses. Vintage props, each with a unique story, add a special touch. The goal is to create a unique and timeless piece of art that families will cherish forever.
Juny Owner
W@junylizardophotography
hen getting photos taken, Juny Lizardo Ramos, the owner of Juny Lizardo Photography, says it’s essential to find an xpert who creatively tells your story. “It is important that clients look for a credible and experienced photographer to ensure that their final images ae artistic and have a story to tell,” she says. However, it’s also important to find someone who truly cares about their work and the final poduct they will
provide you. Juny says she puts love into every shoot. “To me, that is the best certificte that I can provide.” It can be difficulto have your photo taken; there is a lot of pressure to pose correctly or look a certain way. So for Juny, her main goal is to make all clients feel comfortable and stress-free. “My sessions are relaxed; I try to make the children comfortable around me and in front of a camera," she says. "I also offer a curated children's closet to help them take away the stress of finding
the right wardrobe.” Part of the stress-free environment comes from not timing her sessions. “What matters to me is getting the right number of pictures that I know will bring a smile to the family,” Juny says.
When choosing Juny Lizardo Photography, you don’t just get a photographer, you get a true artist. “With my work, I create art, not just a photo,” she says. “When clients choose me, they will get unique, breathtaking and magical images.”
Steve Henry Owner
When you’re getting into investing, Steve Henry says it's vital you read constantly, keep an open mind and be a learning machine. When misinformation runs rampant, Henry says to find esources who are ready to invest in you.
“With investing, many resources are biased or have incentives to come up with certain answers,” he says. “The internet certainly doesn't care if you're successful. At CSH, we invest in the same securities as our clients and are not afraid to disclose our personal holdings.”
Henry’s team at CSH prioritizes transpar-
What is the proper level of diversifiation for my portfolio and which approach should I take to benefit y long term results?
Diversifiction and portfolio management is just as important as the investments you choose. We often see potential clients with way too many investments. We call that a "mutual fund casserole." Instead, focus your money on your best ideas. Too many funds signals a lack of understanding or inattentiveness. Investors should ask questions as to why they own so many funds and have an understanding of the strategy. Taking a researched, informed approach to your portfolio keeps it diverse while also remaining focused on the best long-term results.
ency and utilizes over 100 years of experience in taxation and business entities to help their clients toward success. Many families who work with CSH have used their advice for generations — a testament to how honest, informed and driven Henry and his team are with their clients.
Henry started in the tax business, but his passion has always been investing, so he comes with an analytical viewpoint to your finanes. Henry has decades of experience and a lifelong commitment to investing, giving him priceless knowledge.
Whether you’re a long-time investor or just getting to know the market, Henry
wants to lead you toward success on an informed, clear path.
“There is so much misinformation and group thinking out there. It's no wonder investors can get lost,” Henry says. “I think our fim is very experienced in recognizing what's real and what's just market noise."
To build a diverse portfolio with a proper, informed approach, Henry and CSH Investment Management will put your funds in safe hands. Don’t get lost in the shuffl of misinformation and trends — go with Columbia’s investing experts who have been trusted for multiple generations.
Why is longevity the future of medicine?
The future of medicine is proactive, not reactive. Longevity care looks ahead, using advanced testing and genetics to catch risks before they become disease. It’s about preventing illness, extending vitality and improving quality of life. At Big Tree, we’ve embraced this wholeheartedly through our longevity program — combining advanced diagnostics, biomarker testing and genetics to help people maintain energy, clarity and vitality throughout life. It’s care designed to help you live better and longer.
Dr. Adam Wheeler, MD CEO and Co-Founder
Dr. Adam Wheeler is a boardcertified pysician with more than 20 years of experience in primary care and integrative medicine. Before launching Big Tree Medical in 2017, he served as managing partner at Tiger Pediatrics in Columbia.
After decades in traditional healthcare, Dr. Wheeler saw a system that prioritized billing over people — one that waited for illness instead of working to prevent it. That realization inspired him to build something different. Big Tree Medical was
Through its membership-based model, Big Tree removes the insurance middleman and restores the patientprovider relationship. Members pay a flt monthly fee for unlimited access to their care team, creating space for personalized, proactive medicine that focuses on prevention, performance and long-term vitality.
Dr. Wheeler’s latest initiative, Big Tree
Longevity, builds on that foundation, integrating advanced testing and datadriven insights seamlessly into the highquality primary care Big Tree is known for. This next step reflets his ongoing mission to make preventive, personalized care the new standard in modern medicine.
Named Columbia’s Entrepreneur of the Year (2021) and the University of Missouri’s Best Young Physician (2019), Dr. Wheeler continues to redefine wht health care should be: curious, data-driven and centered on prevention, not reaction.
Brad Wright Agent/Owner
Brad Wright doesn’t simply sell insurance — he works hard to craft personalized protection plans. He invests time into his clients’ personal lives, not just their numbers. Every step of the process is personal, educational and completely pressure-free with Wright at Shelter Insurance®.
Wright’s father mentored him for 32 years, teaching him how to deliver truly exceptional coverage tailored to each client's needs. And Wright’s clients are all across the board — with decades of experience, he has worked with thousands
Why do I need life insurance when I have a policy through my employer?
In the ever-changing landscape of company finanes, employee benefits oten become targets for budget cuts. Unfortunately, group life insurance benefits ae usually among the first o be reduced or eliminated, leaving you without essential coverage. This is why having your own life insurance policy is crucial. It ensures that you have appropriate protection for your loved ones, regardless of any changes that may occur in your professional life.
of families from all walks of life.
“Over the years, I've learned that there is no universal solution to insurance,” Wright says. “Each family's priorities and goals require a personalized approach, thoughtful listening and genuine care. I am grateful that this journey has deepened my expertise and my connections with the families I am able to serve.”
Obtaining or even discussing life insurance can be a daunting topic. Many clients might be uncertain about coverage, policy types and costs. Wright’s approach focuses on education and
clarity, simplifying complex information so clients understand their options. Wright is dedicated to protecting what matters most: your loved ones. “My clients walk away with genuine peace of mind, confidet that their family's future is protected the right way,” Wright says.
Insurance can be overwhelming, but a trusted expert cuts through the jargon. When it comes to the financial futue of your family, you deserve guidance that is rooted in experience, not guesswork. Brad Wright is ready to keep your family informed, protected and prepared.
Why is it important to choose a reputable company for home repairs and safety modifiations?
Choosing a reputable company for home repairs and safety modifictions protects both your investment and your peace of mind. Skilled, bonded and insured professionals ensure the job is done correctly and with materials that last. Reliable companies also stand behind their work, reducing the risk of costly mistakes or hazards later. When it comes to your home’s safety and function, the lowest bid rarely matches the long-term value of trusted craftsmanship and accountability.
Anyone can call themselves a “handyman” and offer their services, relying on guesswork or an internet search to apply a quick fix beore rushing to the next job. But not everyone has the experience or qualifictions to complete repairs safely and correctly — which is why it’s essential to choose an expert like Bret Morrison and his team at TruBlue of Central Missouri.
Morrison brings more than 15 years of experience in property management and commercial real estate development.
Bret Morrison Owner
He is both a Certified ging in Place Specialist and a Senior Home Safety Specialist, uniquely equipped to advise on any home repairs and safety modifictions. His inspiration came after an elderly family member’s fall revealed how few reputable options existed in Columbia for senior home safety and general home maintenance. In 2024, he launched TruBlue to fill tht gap and help local families and seniors stay safe and independent at home.
“Some of the things that have led to my success have been my ability to fin
creative solutions to problems while always prioritizing customer satisfaction above everything else,” Morrison says.
All TruBlue technicians are backgroundchecked, bonded and insured, with a minimum of 10 years of carpentry experience. Morrison coaches his team to uphold high standards of workmanship and professionalism.
“If I wouldn’t feel comfortable letting one of my technicians work inside my grandmother’s home, then they don’t get to join the team,” he adds.
Dr. Shvetha Zarek is a secondgeneration physician and the proud daughter of immigrants. Her mother, a respected infectious-disease and internal-medicine specialist, established her own practice over four decades ago, and her example instilled in Dr. Zarek a deep respect for service, leadership, and entrepreneurship in medicine. After extensive education and over 15 years of clinical experience, including serving as director of IVF at the University of Missouri, Zarek channeled her passion by founding Arbor Fertility™ to provide evidence-
What are the biggest myths or misconceptions about fertility that people should stop believing?
A major misconception about fertility is that it's only a concern later in life or that it’s only a woman's issue. In truth, male-factor infertility accounts for nearly half of all cases. Fertility challenges overall are skyrocketing, affecting many individuals in their late 20s and early 30s. Waiting too long to seek guidance can limit options. Early fertility testing or preservation can empower both partners to plan for their future with confidene.
based, compassionate and accessible fertility care for individuals and couples of all backgrounds.
Arbor Fertility™ is the only womenowned fertility practice in the region led by a board-certified eproductive endocrinologist, offering concierge-level care, multiple locations, high success rates and the best affordability in the region. They provide transparent pricing, while other clinics stick you with a surprise bill.
The hub model at Arbor Fertility™’ offers a central location and satellites throughout Missouri and southern Illinois so they are
always accessible.
Dr. Zarek and her team at Arbor Fertility™ are highly-educated, informed experts, but they lead with their hearts as much as their brains. “Lead with empathy,” Dr. Zarek says. “Reproductive medicine is as much about the heart as it is about science. Patients share deeply personal journeys, and compassion, attentiveness and respect are as important as your clinical expertise. Stay curious, stay humble and never lose sight of the privilege it is to walk alongside people during one of the most meaningful chapters of their lives.”
Why is it important for individuals with neurodivergent and developmental disabilities to be active participants in their communities?
Community membership gives individuals with neurodivergent and developmental disabilities an opportunity to be productive, contributing members of society. Fostering acceptance and inclusion within the community enhances the individual's independence and self-worth. Empowering people with disabilities helps them lead fulfilling lies as valued members of their community. Through advocacy, education and collaboration, we work to break down barriers, foster equity and ensure meaningful opportunities for all.
Woodhaven 1405 Hathman Place 573-875-6181 | woodhaventeam.com
Greg Bell and his team at Woodhaven are passionate about empowering adults with developmental disabilities and helping neurodivergent youth thrive in a safe environment through community-based support.
Bell has dedicated 43 years of his career to the mental health community with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and psychology, certifictions in rehabilitation administration and leadership development administration, along with decades of experience as a national accreditation surveyor and director of human resources and quality assurance.
Greg Bell Chief Operating Office
“Expertise in disability services and mental health leadership is shaped by a combination of education, certifictions, professional experience and a commitment to individualized, person-centered service,” Bell says. “These qualifictions enable us to drive community inclusion, support meaningful employment and foster environments where individuals with neurodivergent and developmental disabilities can thrive in their communities.”
At Woodhaven, their mission is to enhance lives, respect individuality, provide quality opportunities for choice and promote community membership. Beyond
that, they’re committed wholeheartedly.
Over a quarter of the workforce at Woodhaven has worked in the field or over 20 years, dedicating their lives to mental health. Bell says that anyone else looking to get into this field must shae the same passion. “They must be missiondriven and committed to impacting others’ lives in a positive manner,” Bell says.
At Woodhaven, everyone has the ability to make an impact in their community. Moreover, everyone deserves to live with dignity and independence — experts like Bell make this happen with education, awareness and individualized support.
Amanda Hadley Owner and Operator
OWhy
is
accessible transportation for the elderly and disabled important?
Accessible transportation is more than just getting from point A to B. It's about having access to healthcare, the ability to stay engaged with your community, the chance to be with your family for the holidays, independence and overall quality of life — lived to its highest potential. By eliminating barriers for those who already deal with a ridiculous amount of obstacles for life's basics, we can help them not only survive, but thrive and enjoy the world they live in.
ver a decade ago, Amanda Hadley began to form a vision for her own medical transportation business. To reach her goal, Hadley became a CNA, earned her CPR certifiction and spent 10 years working in the medical fiel, in nursing homes and in medical transportation as a transportation coordinator. Not only does Hadley have a passion for health care, she also has a family member who is disabled, which gives her a deeper understanding of the complex barriers that impact the elderly and disabled members of our community. Clients depend on Hadley for safe, reliable and timely transportation. Unlike some transportation services, Vital Access Transport does not deny clients’ ride requests if they happen to fall outside of their standard two-weeks-in-advance notice. Whether it’s a doctor’s appointment or a family reunion, Vital Access Transportation can get you there. Hadley eliminates the hoop-jumping and gets her clients on the road, which is why they keep coming back.
“A lot of clients end up becoming regulars because I am timely, knowledgeable, compassionate and friendly,” Hadley says. “I don't have long wait times for pick up and I make sure to treat everyone with the dignity and respect we all deserve. Communication is key and can help ease a lot of anxiety, especially if there's an important appointment or event that can't be missed. Being able to help solve someone's problem and take some stress off their hands in an aleady difficult time is areat feeling.”
Come and Stay Awhile
Young Leaders Discuss Crime, Housing and Community Growth.
By Zola Heck
Crime, affordable housing and the economic future of our town is an ongoing concern.
Inside Columbia Publisher Emeritus Fred Parry hosted a CEO Roundtable luncheon to discuss these matters with eight young local leaders in different industries in Columbia, ca-
tered by The Broadway Hotel Chef Jeff Guinn. he group brought up several concerns surrounding the city, including deliberation on public safety downtown, the competition to find homes under $35,000 and how to create a better Columbia for future generations. The group had an
optimistic outlook, discussing ways Columbia can come together to be safe, affordable, bustling city.
Crime Concerns
Everyone wants to feel secure in their own home; it’s a natural feeling that extends far beyond the actual walls
Photos by L.G. Patterson
of your house and into the places you visit daily. So, discussing and understanding crime in Columbia is crucial, no matter what industry you are in. Chris Rosskopf, the community bank president at The Bank of Missouri, says the abundance of crime coverage is
respectfully leave,” she says. Stevens brought up an idea she's recently heard, to bring 360-degree cameras to the downtown area to increase surveillance. “That might be something we could do without adding a ton of overhead to our staffing wntown,”
“There is a lot of finger-pointing and talking about solutions, but few are actually stepping up to make change happen.”
- Rebecca Knipp
worrisome. “Maybe there's some recency bias and maybe not, but regardless, it's been in the news, and it gets covered a lot,” he says. “It’s also worth noting that additional coverage is coming from multiple online sources that didn’t previously exist, so the message is being amplified o some degree.”
However, for Bennett Arey with Arey Real Estate, crime hasn’t caused much of an issue for his clients. “I’ve only had one buyer who decided not to move here … because of the crime,” he says.
Megan Stevens, the CFO of Coil Construction, agrees, saying safety isn’t her biggest concern with her business being downtown. “I wouldn't say I felt like immediate harm or anything along those lines ... we might get to the office and somebody is camped outside, and we've asked them to
she says. “It would at least have the appearance that we're trying to be safer, because nobody wants to get in the line of video cameras.”
Joshua Kayser, the founder and CEO of SuretyBonds.com, says the issue of crime goes beyond the barriers of Columbia. “I think crime overall in the world is an issue,” he says. “But we definiely have big pockets of crime.”
Now it’s time to figue out how to implement changes in the city. “There is a lot of finer-pointing and talking about solutions, but few are actually stepping up to make change happen,” Rebecca Knipp, owner of Optimized CFO and Controller Services, says. The question is, what can be done?
Housing Market
Part of the “American Dream” is the day you get the keys to your fist
Justin Miller At Home Apartments
Megan Stevens Coil Construction
Chris Rosskopf The Bank of Missouri
home. Our parents — and their parents — have had this luxury, but it’s becoming harder to imagine this in the current housing market. According to Redfin, the median sale prie of a home is $350,000, compared to $240,000 in 2021. Not only are the prices increasing, the market is extremely competitive for the more affordable houses. Arey says in the current climate, buyers are struggling in Columbia. “It's never cheap enough, it's never available enough,” he says. “So, it doesn't seem like we've really created a solution for such a long-term issue.”
And the market is only getting more competitive as the population increases. Based on reports from the World Population Review, Columbia’s population has increased by 5,000 people in fie years. “Obviously, we are always looking for long-term healthy population growth,” Rosskopf says. “The short answer is that we have struggled to keep the housing
supply, especially workforce housing, on pace with the population growth.” Rosskopf also points out the lack of land available to build more homes for the growing population. “What’s happened is that we've had a lot of development over time and we're starting to run out of land without going farther and farther away from the areas that have services residents seek,” he says. “What does that do? That drives the land costs up. And that's really one of the overarching functions of why it’s gotten out of bounds."
This issue goes beyond buying homes and has entered the world of renting. Justin Miller, the managing partner of At Home Apartments, says the cost of construction has caused rent prices to increase. “It’s only getting more and more expensive to build, so it's hard to provide affordable rents,” he says. As for what will solve this problem, Knipp says it could come down to codes and regulations. “The
more you tighten building codes, the more costs rise,” she says. “Those higher costs inevitably translate into higher home prices, mortgages and rents.” While there is constant discussion about affordable housing in Columbia, the population and prices continue to rise. What will that mean for future buyers? We will have to wait and see.
is, how do we create a plan that is unified, actionable and attainabl?
For some, it starts with the business community, including protecting enrollment at the University of Missouri — one of the biggest economic forces in the area. “It’s been a pretty steady progress there. (The university) enrollment growth and the success of the athletic depart-
“It's never cheap enough, it's never available enough. So, it doesn't seem like we've really created a solution for such a long-term issue.
- Bennett Arey
Columbia’s Future
It may seem as though there is a lot to tackle to create the kind of Columbia the community wants to see in the future. The problem
ment has put people in apartments, people in the seats and people in the bars and the restaurants, and that's really what drives the town,” Rosskopf says. “If you lose a large
Bryan Bliven Paytient
Rebecca Knipp Optimized CFO and Controller Services
portion of that, that's a lot of economic development that runs out.”
Another part of the puzzle is fining a way to keep students in Columbia after graduation. Bryan Bliven, the vice president of operations and technology at Paytient, says several factors would entice people to stay or move to the area. “Low cost of living … easy to get around, good schools and a great community,” he says. “I think that's when we talk about how collaboration is creating the identity of Columbia.”
Miller thinks that a greater variety of amusement would attract more people. “Maybe more entertainment options and restaurants for the size of town we are,” he says. “Just more quality-of-life stuff.”
Joel EuDaly, the COO at Calibration Technologies, has a different approach, saying that a pedestrian mall being brought to Columbia in the future could help the community feel safer. “I want to believe that it would help with the crime,” he says. “But also, I think it gives a sense of safety and community in one area while promoting foot traffic or local businesses.”
Whether you think Columbia’s future depends on the reduction of crime, the increase in Mizzou enrollment or the upkeep of the business community, it seems everyone has the same goal: to make Columbia a beautiful, thriving city where people want to live, work and have fun.
Bennett Arey Arey Real Estate
RAPIDFIRE Final Thoughts
On living and staying in Columbia…
“It’s just a great place to raise a family.”
Bennett Arey, Arey Real Estate
“It has a small-town feel with a lot of amenities that are big-city awesome.”
Chris Rosskopf, The Bank of Missouri
“It’s the right-sized town for a lot of people.”
Joshua Kayser, SuretyBonds.com
“I personally didn't want to go to St. Louis or Kansas City ... I didn't want to have a 45-minute commute to get to work. I like being able to drive almost anywhere in town in 15 minutes, but still having the good restaurants and events that you don't always have in smaller towns.”
Rebecca Knipp, Optimized CFO and Controller Services
“I tell people all the time if I want to go catch a Royals game or a Cardinals game, it’s easy access there. And here, you’ve got the tigers and a lot of great eating establishments, great entertainment and a lot of nature spots.”
Bryan Bliven, Paytient
“There is nothing I would add to what everyone has said here.”
Justin Miller, At Home Apartments
“Columbia is definiely a community feel; it’s a place you want to raise your children, but it is also a place where you can have a business and you can succeed.”
Megan Stevens, Coil Construction
“My favorite parts of living and working in Columbia are the people that make it a great place to raise a family, and the college town atmosphere.”
Joel EuDaly, Calibration Technologies
Richelle Douglas
Stephen Feilbach
Cody Finley
Marie-Josee Thiffault
Sawyer Wade
ANNA GROSS & FAMILY
JOHN LANDRUM
f lavor
New Biscuit on the Block
JOJO'S BISCUIT COMPANY PUTS THE FOCUS ON FAMILY, FOOD AND HOSPITALITY.
BY ZOLA HECK
PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON
Lively community chatter, bright colors, biscuit baskets, the aroma of almost-famous pancakes and a big smile from the host. That’s just the first taste of the experence that awaits you at JoJo’s Biscuit Company. Owner Jason Betzold opened JoJo’s this year to create an inviting, family-friendly breakfast spot that evokes memories of childhood, while focusing on delicious food and a commitment to exceptional hospitality. “My favorite memories were going out on Saturday morning and having pancakes,” Betzold says. “What we're doing here is bringing a fresh perspective to breakfast.”
The heart of JoJo’s hospitality lies in creating a space where families can truly feel at home — a place to relax and simply enjoy great food, warm company and attentive service. “The best are young kiddos having pancakes with their parents. It's super special,”
Betzold, who also owns Bud’s Classic BBQ downtown, says. “Families feel fully comfortable coming out and just letting loose.”
Family ties run deeper than just the customers that walk in. JoJo’s is named after Betzold’s son, Joey. “When he was a little kid, we called him JoJo,” he says. “We'd go out and have breakfast and pancakes. That was our time together, so it’s named after him.”
A big part of the experience comes from having a staff tha’s both skilled and genuinely happy to be there. “We've empowered our entire team here to make memories,” Betzold says. “Great servers make the food taste better.”
Beyond the atmosphere, signature flvors and chef-driven technique set JoJo’s apart even more. “The menu items that I love the most are the boldest,” Betzold says. “The chilaquiles, the Shakshuka, anything that really
expresses those flvors that are exciting, fresh and bright.”
Along with these dishes, the menu has many recognizable classics, including biscuit baskets with homemade jam and what Betzold calls the “almost-famous” pancake. “Our pancakes are special,” he says. From traditional buttermilk to their cinnamon roll pancakes, glazed with cream cheese and cinnamon, each stack is worth savoring.
If you’re not into pancakes, JoJo’s has plenty of other sweet and savory options to choose from, including French toast, Belgian waffles, classic biscuits and gravy, chicken biscuits, Benedicts, salads and more. Obviously, biscuits are the name of the game. Whether served with homemade jelly, honey butter, chicken or gravy, the biscuits are flaky et dense, buttery and soft. The “Eat Like Drinkwitz” meal comes with cage-free
be turned by their take on the dish: a thick cut of bread, drizzled with honey, a generous schmear of fresh avocado, pickled onions and greens. Everything that comes out of the kitchen is colorful, flvorful and filling wth their lavish portion sizes.
The community has responded so well to the addition of JoJo’s that Betzold already has plans to expand to South Columbia, St. Louis, Kansas City
this happen in the next five ears. ve full confidence to grow and expand,” he says. “Between Bud’s and JoJo’s, every day I'm talking to people from Chicago, St. Louis and Dallas.”
The plan is to take over the space formerly occupied by Fuzzy’s Tacos on Nifong by the end of the year. Betzold aims to offer night hours at this location from Thursday through
While all of this behind-the-scenes work happens to expand and grow, Betzold hopes for now, people will come into JoJo’s, relax and enjoy brunch with friends or family. “When you walk in here, you hear the music, you see the artwork. We have a very carefully curated vibe here, but it's really organized chaos,” he says.
JoJo’s is located at 540 Broadway BluffsDrive, suite 111, and is open seven
Swine & Dine
SERVE UP A DELICIOUS COUNTRY HAM FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
BY BROOK HARLAN • PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON
Ilove a slice of country ham, fried up and served on a biscuit or a sandwich with an over-easy egg. It screams Midwest breakfast/brunch. But once we get into the holiday season, it’s time for glazed ham. A glazed country ham can be tricky. If you don’t soak it, it will be salty. If you cook it too long, it will be dry … and probably salty. Finding that perfect mix of soaking, poaching, skinning and scoring, then glazing and roasting, gives the ham a moist and flvorful inside with just
the right amount of salt, and a crispy, sweet exterior.
SOAK
I use the rough rule of thumb to cover the ham and soak it 12 hours for every year the ham has been cured (really, only summers count; the summer is when most of the “age” gets on a ham). This soaks out some of the salt. The safest way to soak a ham is in the refrigerator, though I rarely have room. If it is cold enough (under 40 degrees), you can put it outside in a designated
animal-free zone. If you don’t have the space, a cooler filed with water might be a safer bet. Add frozen bottles of water to bring the temperature down. The soaking process can be in whatever vessel works with your situation to “protect the ham” (stock pot, food-safe bucket, cooler, crock).
SIMMER
Once you have soaked the ham, discard the soaking water. Then, most of the ham needs to be covered by water in your large stock pot
or canning pot. If the hock sticks out a little, it will be okay; it will cook during the next process. Bring the water to just below a simmer, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes per pound of ham. Get the thickest part of the ham to 145 degrees. Once the ham has come up to temperature, remove it (save the water for stock), and place on a cutting board to cool for 15 to 20 minutes.
SKIN
Once the ham has cooled to the touch, carefully remove the skin and add it back to the pan to make stock or discard it if not needed. Only remove the very outer layer of skin; the fat will render and crisp during the next process. Cut around the base of the hock, just into the skin, and work down the rest of the ham, leaving the skin on the hock to prevent it from drying out. After all of the skin is removed, cut a cross-hatch pattern into the ham. This helps some of the glaze get deeper into the meat and creates a nice presentation when the ham is finished
GLAZE
Make the glaze when the ham first starts to simmer in the water, which gives enough time to cool it down and adjust the consistency if needed. A cool glaze will stick to the ham much better than a warm glaze. There are a lot of different options for making the glaze; the one I have to the right is very simple. Feel free to add orange juice, apple juice, preserves or anything else sweet you may have lying around. Simmer the glaze to dissolve all of the sugar and thicken it. Be careful not to reduce it too much. A hot sugary liquid will seem very fluid, but as it cools down, it will become thick and viscous. If it is too thick, stir in some hot ham liquid. If it is too thin, simmer a bit longer.
BAKE
Once you have your glaze made and ham on a roasting pan, brush the glaze liberally. Then, place it into a preheated 350-degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes, rotating a little over halfway through and brushing with more glaze (some will drip off and start to caramelize on the bottom, not much to do about that). When the glaze has bubbled and browned, and has a few dark brown spots, remove the ham and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
SLICE
From the side, cut in until you hit the center bone, then make a 90-ish degree turn and follow the bone until you get close to the end. Cut down from the side to connect the cuts and remove that section of the ham. Flip the ham and repeat on the other side. Those two chunks will be the majority of the ham and will be very easy to slice. You can carve on the other section, but they won’t have quite as much glaze as the other cuts. Once sliced, I like to put them on some type of oven-safe dish so I can flash them in the oven just before serving.
SERVE
I try to have the ham cooked and sliced about an hour before we need it, which allows me to use the oven to finish other dishes, then warm the ham up before we dig in.
Brown Sugar Mustard Glaze
Ingredients
1 cup 1/4 cup
1 cup
Brown sugar
Dijon or country mustard Ham liquid from simmering (with some fat)
Instructions
Simmer the brown sugar, mustard and ham liquid for about 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Take a small container of cold water and drop a spoonful of the glaze into it. Let it cool for a few seconds to congeal together at the bottom, then try to pick it up with your fingers. The sweet spot is where you can just barely pinch and pick up the glaze in the water. This is what the rest of the liquid will be like once cooled. Now you have a perfect, salty-sweet country ham. All that’s left to do is enjoy. Happy holidays!
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Cider, Spice and Everything Nice
HAVE
YOURSELF
BY ALLIE CROW
A MERRY LITTLE MARGARITA.
PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON
This drink is a fun seasonal twist on the classic margarita. It has a bright, refreshing start on the palate and a warm finish that accetuates winter spices. Make it yourself or give it a try at Twain: Holiday Hideaway this December for some extra holiday cheer.
AllieCrowisthebeveragedirectoratTwainBBQ&TaproomandvocoTheTigerHotel.
Winter Orchard
Ingredients
1/2 ounces
Ty Iechyd Da Blanco spirit
1/4 ounce
Instructions
Add blanco spirit, apple cider, cinnamon syrup, lime juice and triple sec to a shaker with ice and shake. Rim a glass with cinnamon sugar and add fresh ice.
Strain the cocktail into a glass, garnish with a freeze-dried apple slice and enjoy.
IN THIS ISSUE, WE GAVE OUR TRADITIONAL DINING GUIDE A SHAKE, A STIR, AND GARNISHED IT WITH A LIME.
Instead of filling your plate, we’re filling your glass, mug and cup with Columbia’s best beverages. Our rise-and-shiners lineup has the caffeine to fuel your morning, the afternoon pick-me-ups provide your 3 p.m. treat, then cap your evening with a cocktail. Cheers!
RISE AND SHINERS
AFTERNOON PICK-ME-UPS
Sipz Sodas
NIGHTCAPS
views
Men as Allies Breakfast Fundraiser
Presented by MU Health Care and Little Dixie Construction, the annual Men As Allies Breakfast Fundraiser was held to benefit True North of Columbia. Sarah Butler, Roger Johnson and Michele Snodderly provided valuable personal insights into the necessity of True North's programs. Mike Alden and Glen Ehrhardt gave closing remarks and a call to action, creating more awareness in our community.
1. Tom Highland and Glen Ehrhardt
2. Bill Atherton and Jenny Preiss
3. Tom Greenlee and Tom Klucking
4. Eric Morrison and Kermit Summerall
5. Paul Land and Roger Sprauge
6. Neil Carr and David Clithero
7. Jeff eidenreich, Mat Gass, Megan Steen
Date Aug. 27
Location The Crossing
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
7 1 2 5 6 3 4
19th Annual Coastal Electric Invitational
1 4 7 5 6 8 2 3
The Coastal Electric Golf Invitational to benefit Woodhaven saw over 130 golfers, with three teams tying for first wth scores of 54! Almost half a million dollars has been raised over the years thanks to this event.
1. Rachel and Tom McCaslin, Alana and Zac Stearns
2. Nic Parks, Jeff ope, Holly Musick, Mike McClaren
3. Becca Highland, Amy Greenwood, Melinda Netemeyer, Ashley Minor
4. Rich Kuempel, George Cummings, Craig Head, Scott Utterback
5. Herb Bastow, Rex Sanders, Bob Iglehart, Dennis Cotter
6. Bill and Allison Lloyd, Preston Finkle
7. Greg Greening, Al Retsma, Jed Lee, Kelly Baker
8. Stephen Parshall, Dan Crosby, Forrest Shock, Austin Ball
Date Sept. 8
Location
Country Club of Missouri
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
8th Annual Rock Bridge Lions Club Charity Picnic
Scores of friends of the Rock Bridge Lions Club attended a charity picnic to benefit Welcome Home and its invaluable services for our veterans. Excellent music, a delicious dinner, tasty brews and interesting auction items filed the evening.
1. Rock Bridge Lions Club president Mike Walker with Megan Sievers
2. Marcus Glover and LaVetta Posey-Glover
3. Becky Giovanini, Marsha Ely, Nancy Toalson, Diana Kritzer
4. Brian, Terry and Mark Jackson
5. Jason and Rebecca Knipp
6. Jerry Porter, Joe Roberts, Don Lang
7. Mel and Kim Brucks
8. Leslie Niemeyer, Dorise Slinker, Bradley Darnell, Vicki McAlister
Date Sept. 15
Location
Logboat Brewing Company
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
1 2 4 6 8 5 3 7
Birdies for Bigs Golf Tournament
1 2 3 7 4 5 6 8
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri held their inaugural golf tournament, Birdies for Bigs. The four-person scramble saw teams from local Columbia businesses playing to support youth mentorship. The winning teams consisted of Central Missouri Real Estate, Prime Exteriors and Logboat Brewing Company. Additional winners took home prizes for on-course contests, courtesy of sponsors Columbia Orthopaedic Group, Assured Partners and QuesTec.
1. Skip Walther, Mike Ortbals, John Weston, Walt Shelby
2. Andrea Seeley, Anna Hanley, Ben Bowman
3. Mark Alexiou, Braedon Hunt, Dave Samorian, Ryan Chase
4. Erik Miller, Phil Wren, Aaron Wright, Drew Shively
5. Jewell Simms, Alex Crews, Tony Kim, Skyler White
6. Bill Costello, Connor Janssen, Mike Hentges, Tim Gerding
7. Kevin Kiffe, Matt Haller, Robert Winkelman, John Morris
8. Dennis and Ray Hazelrigg, Brit Clements, Terry Coffelt
Date Sept. 22
Location
A.L. Gustin Golf Course
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
Boots ‘N Bids for Kids
Coyote Hill held its annual Boots 'N Bids event to continue raising funds in support of its children's ministry. In total, 375 attendees raised just over $280,000 to give Columbia children safe homes and new opportunities through the memory makers program.
1. Natalie and Scott Ratliff
2. Aly and Shawn Noordsy
3. Back row: Paige Douce, Lisa Parrish, Joe Knight, Gage Claas, Cour tney Huff Front row: Amy Kingery and Ashley Drew
4. Dave and Jen Ries
5. Alexis Andrews and Jahrona Banks
6. Rusty Drewing and Bill Atherton
7. Anthony and Julie Bass, Adam and Aniceta Kinser, Jo and Ellis Choate
Date Oct. 3
Location The Crossing
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
4 5 7 2 1 3 6
History Makers Hall of Fame Gala
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 10 9
The Boone County History and Culture Center held its annual History Makers Hall of Fame Gala to celebrate and honor our community’s history. Hundreds of guests met to honor enshrinees and an estimated $119,000 was raised to support programs and collections that preserve our city’s history and inspire future generations.
1. Piyusha Singh and Sunitha Bosecker
2. David Brown and Karen Taylor
3. Chris and Kellie Campbell
4. Eric and Heather Sappington
5. Bonnie and Phil Prather
6. Luke and Barbara Buffalo
7. Kathy and Skip Walther
8. Judith Lee and Nancy Wilson
9. Lynn and Pat Hostetler
10. Mike and Connie Leipard
11. Gina and Ed Scavone
Date Oct. 4
Location
Country Club of Missouri
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
Strategic Impact
Keep building a stronger, more compassionate community—together.
A New View
Being a photographer, I can get some access to unique points of view of the community. In the following issues, I would like to share with you some of those sights with A New View.
The Assignment: Sam Speake Memorial Scholarship 5K
The Location: Outside of Shepard Boulevard Elementary School
Sometimes I see things that stir more questions than answers.
I was photographing my friends as they participated in the Sam Speake 5K on the east side of town. While watching them struggle on the final hill, I notced something odd about the telephone pole on the corner in front of the school.
There were several dozen perfect little pieces of chewed gum covering the pole. Each piece was deliberately rolled up and placed on protruding staples from former posters. It was more of a work of art than a gum dumpster.
This would have taken several days and multiple packs of gum to accomplish. I still have so many questions but no answers.
L.G. Patterson
The Inimitable Mun Choi
MU LEADER IMPROVES ODDS FOR COLUMBIA'S FUTURE SUCCESS.
There are but a handful of individuals in Columbia’s 204-year history who have significantly impacted the trajectory of our city as much as University of Missouri System President and MU Chancellor Mun Choi. His vision for a world-class institution of higher education and his dogged determination bode well for what was once a sleepy college town in the middle of Missouri. If Choi continues to pursue his vision, our community will be positively impacted for generations to come.
I will reluctantly admit that I didn’t like Choi when he firs arrived on campus. My firs assessment was that he was overconfident and too quick to part ways with some longtime university staffers who had served Mizzou well under the most trying of circumstances. I suspected that Choi would not last long, given the fact that his rogue board of curators seemed to be running the university from their law offices in St. Louis and Kansas City. I also did not believe that Choi had the wizardry needed to tackle a dysfunctional athletic department and wrestle control away from a pack of powerhungry curators and coaches.
During his nearly nine years at Mizzou, Choi has repeatedly proven me wrong. He has won the unlikely respect
of the Missouri legislature and the hearts of a oncedisgruntled student body. More importantly, Choi has worked his magic with key alumni and business leaders across the country. The partnerships recently forged with business interests in South Korea to help build MU’s NextGen Research Reactor are further proof of Choi's abilities.
One of Choi’s strongest skill sets has been his ability to cast a vision for what Mizzou could become. His prescience for top academic standards, innovation and research has helped make him an extremely effective recruiter. As much as we love our fair city, you have to imagine that it’s a tough sell to convince top scholars, scientists and innovators from half a world away that there’s a bright future for their academic and professional pursuits at Exit 124 off Iterstate 70 somewhere between the states of Kansas and Illinois. Despite the long odds, Choi has consistently sealed the deal with some of the best and brightest minds from around the world.
Choi is resolute. Choi is firm. Choi does’t back down from a figt. He’s had to deal with more than his fair share of resistance from campus chancellors, faculty members and a handful of entitled student organizations. He’s not been willing to let disparate
interests sabotage something as important as the university’s future. He’s clearly discovered how the “Show-Me” state got its name.
Most of us got a taste of Choi’s intestinal fortitude when he recently voiced concerns about crime and violence in downtown Columbia. Though he ruffled the feathers of Columbia’s mayor and city manager, he made it clear that safety issues in our city were impacting his ability to protect university students, staff and facuty members. City Hall’s refusal to take proactive measures was hurting Choi’s business. As the CEO and president of Columbia’s largest employer and economic driver, Choi felt duty-bound to sound an alarm. He didn’t simply complain; he came to the table offering solutions while Columbia Mayor Barbara Buffaoe and City Manager De’Carlon Seewood stuck their heads in the sand. These “town vs. gown” stances prevent Columbia from becoming the best version of itself.
To his credit, Choi trods along unfazed. He’s playing a long game that requires an altogether different diet of resilience and a steadfast commitment to a vision. Choi says he wants to retire at Mizzou. There’s no doubt that he has already turned away offers from the greener pastures
BY FRED PARRY
of a dozen Ivy League and highly-rated AAU competitors in favor of finishing stong at Mizzou, and for that, we can all be grateful.
While I’m bullish on Choi, I’m confident that I wouldn’t want to work for him. He knows what needs to get done and that kind of work requires the extraordinary loyalty of footsoldiers who are willing to work just as hard as their boss. That’s often the price successful leaders pay.
Historians looking back on this era of Columbia’s history will surely recognize Choi’s tenure as a turning point for a university and a college town that only began to prosper when its stakeholders all started rowing in the same direction. More than an effective coxswain, Choi will be remembered as a catalyst for dynamic change in our community. We should all seize this opportunity to pitch in and do what we can to make sure that we end up on the right side of history. Mun Choi has certainly earned our support.
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