Inside Columbia Magazine - November/December 2023

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NOV/DEC 2023

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 3

COMMERCE TRUST WELCOMES NEW TEAM MEMBERS Commerce Trust is pleased to introduce the newest members of our Columbia-based team.

Steven Jeffrey, Sarah Hanneken, Keith Schawo, and Greg Jones collectively bring nearly 90 years of financial planning, wealth and asset management experience, adding considerable depth to our team servicing clientele throughout Central Missouri.

Commerce Trust has been a leading provider of investment management, financial planning, trust and private banking services for individuals and institutions for more than 100 years. Our clients benefit from the insight gained by our experience administering more than $63 billion in assets through all market cycles.1 Today, Commerce Trust, a division of Commerce Bank, ranks 20th in the U.S. among bank-managed trust companies based on assets under management.2

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Based on assets under administration (AUA) as of June 30, 2023.

Earnings Highlights, 2nd Quarter, 2023.

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 13

Heartland Homes is proud to be certified by Malarkey to offer a 50 year warranty on their Malarkey Roofing Products.

Sustainability Malarkey recycles materials to make their shingles and offset their carbon footprint.

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features

Inside Columbia

features

C O N T E N T S

46 DECK THE HALLS Tips and Tricks for Your Next Holiday Party

55 MERRY AND BRIGHT Get into the Spirit with These Area Events

56 MINDFUL METHODS Forget the Stress with Our Guide to Seasonal Self-Care

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 17

W E A R E H E R E F O R A L L YO U R T R AV E L N E E D S .

WELCOME TO THE BROADWAY, a Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, the perfect launchpad for your next stay in Columbia. Spacious rooms. World-class dining. Rooftop entertainment. Steps away from Columbia’s unique shopping, vibrant art and exciting music scene. Just a few short blocks from the University of Missouri, Stephens College and Columbia College campuses. It’s all right here and waiting for you at The Broadway.

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Nov/Dec C O

N

T

E

N

T S

IN EVERY ISSUE 20 FROM THE EDITOR 24 WHAT’S ONLINE

INSIDER

30 ENCOUNTERS Plant-based Perfection

33

BOOKSHELF Seasonal Suggestions

34 SPOTLIGHT Lending A Helping Branch

35

122 124

CALENDAR

LIFE

38 HEALTH & WELLNESS Healthy Holiday Habits

41

ROBINSON’S RAMBLINGS A Century of Success

42 ULTIMATE WATCHLIST Jammin’ at the Gym

43 WEDDING One Heck of a Weekend

FLAVOR

122 DINING OUT Raising The Bar

124 FOUGERE’S FAVORITES Merry Memories

127 COCKTAIL A Mint And Mocha Mixture

128 COOKING WITH BROOK Creamy Christmas Creation

VIEWS

135 DUELING DJS 137 ON THE TOWN 142 A NEW VIEW

143 DARKOW DRAWS 145 THE FINAL WORD

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 19

from the editor

MADELEINE LEROUX

Getting in the Spirit

Enjoying all the Holiday Season has to Offer in mid-Missouri.

T

Madeleine Leroux

Editor | mleroux@mailzimmer.com Inside Columbia magazine

here’s nothing more magical than the holiday season. The sights, the sounds, the flavors, the feelings — it’s incomparable to any other time of year.

But beyond the lights and the cookies, what truly makes this time of year special is the memories. It’s the chance to look back on the wonderful times from past years while relishing the opportunity to create new memories with loved ones.

Some of my favorite childhood memories are from the holidays. My mom always went all out at Christmas in our home, and my brother and I were the typically excited children, trying to sneak downstairs in the middle of the night and get a glimpse at what Santa had brought.

But it’s the little things that stand out. How my father, in the very early hours of the morning, would let me sneak into the living room to peek at what was in my stocking, on the condition that I put everything back before the rest of the family woke up. The cookies my mom made every Christmas, and only at Christmas, that my brother and I would quickly gobble up.

While some of those things go away as the years pass, there are other things that we can hold onto longer. For instance, it’s not Christmas in my family until we’ve watched “White Christmas.” (It’s just one of our treasured holiday movies.)

We all have holiday traditions that we hold dear, things passed down to us from generations before or some that we crafted ourselves over years of celebrations. It’s what makes the holidays truly special.

And we are so excited to get fully into the holiday spirit this year! If you’re looking to host an unforgettable holiday gathering, whether it’s a huge event filled with family and friends, or something more intimate for just a few loved ones, you’ll want to check out our tips for holiday hosting on pages 46-53. We consulted with experts on everything from planning the party to getting the perfect tree so you can wow everyone this year.

Or, if you’d prefer to be the attendee instead of the host, we rounded up some of our favorite holiday events in mid-Missouri on page 55, from extravagant light displays and horse-drawn carriages to parades and performances.

And while there is so much to love about this season, we also know that there is often a lot of stress that can come with it. So we put together a few tips to help you manage any added stress or anxiety on pages 56-60, along with some added resources in case they’re needed.

Whatever way you celebrate the season, the Inside Columbia team wishes you nothing but health, happiness and hope as we head into 2024.

Happy holidays!

Madeleine 20 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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Inside Columbia Staff CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Carla Leible carla@mailzimmer.com FOUNDER & PUBLISHER EMERITUS Fred Parry fred@mailzimmer.com PUBLISHER Melody Parry EDITOR Madeleine Leroux mleroux@mailzimmer.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Zola Heck zcrowder@mailzimmer.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS John Robinson, John Darkow, Sara Fougere, Brook Harlan, Kimber Dean, Travis Oakley ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimmer.com PHOTO EDITOR L.G. Patterson lg@mailzimmer.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madelyn Jones mjones@mailzimmer.com

On the cover

The McBaine Burr Oak tree, affectionately known as the Big Tree, is illustrated with lights and encapsulated in a makeshift snow globe. Illustration by Tim Flanner 22 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 23

what’s online...

Enjoy additional digital content on our website and social media.

Inside Columbia Staff ADVERTISING COORDINATORS Bre Smith bsmith@mailzimmer.com MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES Cathy Atkins catkins@mailzimmer.com Josh Arnold jarnold@mailzimmer.com

DANCING WITH DOUBT

Cosmo from Y107, Aric from Clear99, Shags from 96.7 KCMQ and Stephanie from 93.9 The Eagle, came together to take on the imposter dance challenge. See which DJ’s dance moves can blend in best and who can eye the imposter on page 135. You can also visit insidecolumbia.net or find us on Facebook or Instagram for a full video of the challenge.

Karolina Arbova karbova@mailzimmer.com Tyler Morrison tmorrison@mailzimmer.com OFFICE MANAGER Becky James rjames@mailzimmer.com DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE Steve Leible

COCOA CREATIONS

Have you been looking to take your holiday parties to the next level? Check out our tips on creating the perfect hot cocoa bar at home on page 46 or visit insidecolumbia.net for a behind-the-scenes look at the DIY creation!

INSIDE COLUMBIA MAGAZINE Zimmer Strategic Communications 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 InsideColumbia.net Office: 573-875-1099

Inside Columbia is published by Zimmer

Strategic Communications, 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201, 573-875-1099.

#INSIDECOLUMBIA

In this issue, we put together a guide to hosting the perfect holiday happening, and we want to see you celebrating the holidays in Columbia! Check out the complete guide on pages 46-55, snap a picture of you doing something festive, and post it on Instagram using #insidecolumbia by Dec. 15. We will choose from the submissions and award the winner a FREE one-year subscription to Inside Columbia! /InsideColumbia.net

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24 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2023.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Postage paid at Columbia, Mo. Not responsible for omissions or information, which has been misrepresented to the magazine.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 25

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Subscription rate is $15 for 1 year.

Call 573-875-1099 to place an order or to inform us of a change of address, or subscribe at InsideColumbia.net.

For bulk subscription rates, contact Becky James at 573-875-1099.

ADVERTISING Inside Columbia is the best way to reach Columbia’s upscale consumers. Information about advertising is available online at InsideColumbia.net or by calling 573-875-1099.

NEWS RELEASES & EVENT NOTICES Contact editor at 573-875-1099, or email mleroux@mailzimmer.com.

ON THE TOWN Send your photos with the event description and subject names for captions to mleroux@mailzimmer.com, or mail to 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201. Not all photos received will be published.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send letters to 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 or email mleroux@mailzimmer.com. Inside Columbia reserves the right to publish any letter to the editor.

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Let us publish a specialty magazine exclusively for your company or organization.

Call Madeleine Leroux at 573-875-1099 or email mleroux@mailzimmer.com

REPRINTS Want to reproduce an article you’ve seen in Inside Columbia? We can provide reprints and customize them on glossy stock for your promotional needs. Minimum quantity is 500 copies. Call Madeleine Leroux at 573-875-1099 or email mleroux@mailzimmer.com.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 27

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insider C O N T E N T S

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Saving Your Skin ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

33

Curl Up With A New Book ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

34

Branching Out In Generosity ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

35 Calendar

DAZZLING DISPLAY

One of our favorite things about the holiday season is the abundance of outdoor decorations. While Columbia has plenty of public displays available, there’s also many who go all out each year decorating their homes for the delight of the neighborhood. Looking to start your own display this year? Make sure you’re careful with how you mount those tremendous trimmings. Stay away from nails, staples, screws or hooks. Stick with electrical tape or clips for a safe and secure display.

insider ENCOUNTERS

Sud-sational Self-Care

KRYSTAL MARTIN CREATES LUXURIOUS, PLANT-BASED SKIN CARE SOLUTIONS.

BY ZOLA HECK · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

T

here are so many products that are used in homes and on your skin that could contain harmful ingredients. Whether

it’s your lotion, the holiday-scented candles burning in your home or even the soap you clean your body with, many mainstream products can contain parabens, triclosan, benzophenone, phthalates, formaldehyde, sulfates, petroleum, polyethylene glycol or other harsh chemicals.

After losing a child in 2019, Krystal Martin decided to dig deeper into what she was putting into her body and the air. “I realized we were using products that had carcinogens, parabens, phthalates and just everything that could possibly contribute to a loss during pregnancy,” Martin says. “I was like, why am I using pork fat on my skin and body?”

Martin, now the owner of K & K Co., realized she could use her own experience to help other families and pregnant women have a cleaner self-care day. “I wanted them to know you are not alone in that healing process and that journey.” After crawling out of the darkness, Martin wanted to create care to help with the process and ensure people know, “I am here for you.” So, in 2019, Martin created K & K Co., named after her daughters, which offers plant-based skincare and candles. “Let’s do this together; we can be a community,” she says.

30

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

insider ENCOUNTERS

cozy. Martin’s candles not only offer

You don’t have to talk to press two to press

Martin says she saw considerable changes

creative scent combinations but are clear

three to press one. No, you just call me and

in her children. “Their skin got better,

of any harsh chemicals, so the only thing

let’s fix it.”

eczema is clearing up, their mood changed

you’ll be bringing into your home is the

Martin not only creates all the products

now that I am using pure essential oils,”

warm and relaxing scents. “They are very

herself in her garage, but she will also hand

she says. “It’s crazy how when you return

unique scent blends; it’s not your typical

deliver all products to your door. “Who

back to earth, it just heals.”

scent,” she says. “When you say vanilla

wouldn’t want to be a community with who

birch, you know what that is going to

they shop with,” Martin says. “I want to know

smell like, but when you say morning

your opinion or how we can build a better

dew, which is one of our fall candles,

community that supports all of us, because

you don’t know what it is going to smell

that’s what matters. Community matters.”

like, and when you pick it up, you are

Customers can order her plant-based

After switching to cleaner products,

“

It’s crazy how when you return back to earth, it just heals.

intrigued by the smell.”

When it comes to Martin’s products, it’s all about safe, healthy, luxurious

products online or at Plume in south Columbia. For more information on Martin’s safe self-care products, visit kkco.shop.

products. “We want to make sure everything is crafted with the best While all her products have their own

intentions for the earth and for your

benefits, Martin says her turmeric line is

family, so we keep you in mind while we

one of her favorites and one of the most

create,” Martin says.

healing products. “Turmeric helps with

Shopping at K & K Co. not only helps

hyperpigmentation and discoloration in

get rid of toxins in your home, but it also

the skin, it helps soothe sunburn, helps

plays a role in keeping the small business

prevent against more acne scaring and

community thriving in Columbia.

more,” she says.

“When you shop small, you support big

It’s not just body products that could

dreams,” Martin says. “We are a small,

release toxic chemicals; mainstream

local company that really has a heart for

candles or wax melts also have harsh

Columbia, Missouri, and we want to be

chemicals that could harm your home.

a part of their community; I want our

Especially around the holidays, people

products to be a part of their home.”

turn to candles or other products to bring

When working with K & K Co., Martin

a holiday smell or a Christmas cookie

says you get to work directly with her.

ambiance to make their home feel more

“That’s why I love small. You just get me.

Krystal Martin gave birth to her rainbow baby in 2019.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

31

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

insider BOOKSHELF

Recommended Reading FIND A NEW BOOK FOR THE SEASON.

With the arrival of winter comes the perfect time of year to snuggle up inside with a good book. And in Columbia, we’re lucky to have multiple local bookstores available where we can find a plethora of options in a wide variety of categories.

We decided to ask the experts at Skylark Bookshop, Yellow Dog Bookshop and Columbia Books to help us create a list of recommendations for your next book. Check out the list below and don’t forget to support our local bookstores!

COLUMBIA BOOKS

Recommendations from Annette Kolling-Buckley Girly Drinks: A World History of Women and Alcohol — Mallory O’Meara

Read the forgotten/untold story of the role women played in all aspects of the creation and consumption of alcoholic beverages; distillers, drinkers and brewers; from the ancient Sumerians to 20th century bartenders and owners of today.

Miss Benson’s Beetle — Rachel Joyce

Set in 1950 Britain, a schoolteacher walks away from her post and sets off to New Caledonia accompanied by her young assistant. The pair are in search of the elusive golden beetle of New Caledonia — a totally unlikely plot for such an amazing book.

Pictures — J.R.R. Tolkien

This is a gallery of the various aspects of Tolkien's designs and illustrations associated with the world of Middle-earth — a lovely book in a slipcase.

YELLOW DOG

Recommendations from Joe Chevalier The Book of (More) Delights — Ross Gay

In this follow up to the original Book of Delights, Gay shares more stories of the small joys of living in the world that are often overlooked.

Roman Stories — Jhumpa Lahiri

This short story collection, inspired by Lahiri's years living in Rome, demonstrates the author's skill with the form, displaying her sensitivity, sense of humor and sharp eye for the telling details of daily life.

Let Us Descend — Jesmyn Ward

Ward echoes Dante in this riveting story of an enslaved woman sold into the deep South, blending the stark reality of such a journey with mythic elements.

SKYLARK

Recommendations from Carrie Koepke What You Are Looking for is in the Library — Michiko Aoyama

This book is a perfect blend of honest, sweet, nostalgia and the need for change. It’s an exploration of the self through readers and an insightful, but peculiar, librarian. This book puts into words that feeling when a book changes your life.

Starling House — Alix E. Harrow

Harrow is the expert of blending reality and filling your gut with insights from the most surprising of places. This is an excellent chilly night read; filled with creepy house vibes, a unique romance and sibling protective complexities.

Of Time and Turtles: Mending the World, Shell by Shattered Shell — Sy Montgomery

Montgomery, known for deep dive non-fiction on wildlife, finally has a book on my favorite creature. As always, she fills her work with information paired with emotional insight into life and living.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

33

insider

SPOTLIGHT

A Tree-mendous Event MAKE WISHES COME TRUE THROUGH THE GIVING TREE PROGRAM.

BY ZOLA HECK

T

here's nothing more magical than waking up on Christmas

in out-of-home care in Boone and Callaway sponsor and shop for presents. Gifts must counties at the end of July. But Garrett be returned between Nov. 27-Dec. 10 to

morning and scurrying to the tree

says some of those children may be with

the Columbia Foster and Adoption project.

to see your name on a present from Santa

relatives who decline additional assistance

So, grab your big red bag and holiday

Claus. To make this a reality for all children

or are being served by other agencies.

Board member Carrie Beucke says

season. The Giving Tree program proves

like, the Columbia Foster and Adoption

fulfilling the kids’ holiday lists helps each

that the roots of compassion run deep,

Project in coordination with KVC Missouri,

child feel more involved and accepted,

making the city's holiday season merrier,

Cornerstones of Care, Missouri Alliance

both at school and in their family lives.

one ornament at a time.

for Children and Families, and Boone and

"High-dollar items that kids/teens are

Callaway Counties Children's Division,

asking for help the youth feel included

organize The Giving Tree every year.

in peer groups and give them access to

This project not only embodies the essence of the season but also symbolizes the deep sense of community and

something that their peers have access to," Beucke says.

The Giving Tree program is not just

compassion that thrives in Columbia.

a holiday tradition but a symbol of the

The Giving Tree provides Christmas gifts

community's unwavering commitment

for children in foster care in Boone and

to compassion and togetherness. Board

Callaway counties. Kathryn O'Hagan,

member Erin Strong says it’s incredible to

president of the board, says every holiday

see how much Columbia cares each year.

season the Columbia Foster and Adoption

"It's so amazing to see how generous the

Project works with foster parents to get

community is," Strong says.

lists of holiday wishes from each child.

The goal is for kids in foster care to

Last year alone, they served about 330

have the same Christmas as other children

children who received holiday gifts from

"because they are often in a foster home

The Giving Tree, which were provided by

and don't have any of their own items,”

nearly 300 people who donated gifts and

34

spirit and prepare to give back this

no matter what their family might look

Garrett says.

money. Cindy Garrett, chair of The Giving

Residents can go online or visit The

Tree, believes they might serve even more

Giving Tree at the Columbia Mall after

kids this year, as there were more than 400

Nov. 27, where they can find a wish list to

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Details WHAT

The Giving Tree

WHERE

Columbia Mall

WHEN

Nov. 27-Dec. 10

WEBSITE

comoadoption.com

What’s Going On THE EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW.

Dates and events are subject to change. Please visit the event website for the most up-to-date information.

November

Please wear your best eras outfit and prepare to shake it off to all her bangers.

9 p.m.; $15-$35; thebluenote.com

NOV. 3-4 MARECK DANCE: ELEVATE

MISSOURI THEATER This fall, experience an evening of contemporary ballet at Mareck Dance's 18th annual fall performance, "Elevate," held at the Missouri Theatre. Enjoy not one, not two, but three world premieres, choreographed by Karen Mareck Grundy, Colby Damon and Kristopher Estes-Brown.

7 p.m.; $32-$48; mareckcenterfordance.org

NOV. 4 WOODLAND CRAFT FAIR

CITY GARDEN SCHOOL Peruse numerous vendors and explore the treasures at the Woodland Craft Fair and Family Fun Fest. Once you've found your newest gift, enjoy carnival games for all ages and mouthwatering treats.

10 a.m.; free; citygardencolumbia.org

NOV. 10 THAT TAYLOR PARTY: TAYLOR SWIFT NIGHT

THE BLUE NOTE Get ready to turn back time and dance throughout all the iconic eras of Taylor Swift at The Blue Note.

NOV. 11 MIZZOU VS. TENNESSEE

FAUROT FIELD Come cheer on the Mizzou Tigers at Faurot as they take on Tennessee for the first home game of November. Don't forget that fans are asked to wear their best black Mizzou gear to the game to support the Tigers!

TBA; $40; mutigers.com

December DEC. 1 CHOREOGRAPHIC INSTALLATION

MARECK CENTER FOR DANCE As a part of First Fridays, the Mareck Center for Dance is performing its annual “Choreographic Installation,” allowing dancers to expand their choreographic voice and create new pieces for one night.

6-9 p.m.; mareckcenterfordance.org.

DEC. 6 COMO COMEDY CLUB: JOSH WOLF

THE BLUE NOTE Prepare for a night of laughs as Josh Wolf takes The Blue Note stage for a knee-slapping performance like you have never seen before.

6 p.m.; $29-$39; thebluenote.com

DEC. 15 OPEN MIC NIGHT

LOVE COFFEE Step into Love Coffee for its open mic night, where the smell of coffee meets the enchanting local talent.

From acoustic performances to thought-provoking spoken word poetry, the open mic night at Love Coffee offers a platform for community creativity.

7 p.m.; free; columbialovecoffee.org.

DEC. 17 A WINTER MIRACLE – THE MISSOURI SYMPHONY

MISSOURI THEATRE Get into the holiday spirit with the time-honored Missouri Symphony tradition of "A Winter Miracle."

Transport yourself into a winter wonderland and celebrate the rich and diverse spectrum of music while enjoying the magic of the holiday season.

2 p.m.; $10-$59; themosy.org

For holiday events, check out page 55.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

35

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A Centennial Celebration ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Lifting Spirits and Weights ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Heck Yeah

SENSITIVE SKIN

As the weather turns colder, many of us must face the issues that come with dreaded winter dryness. That’s why a skin care routine is incredibly important in the colder months. Keep your skin hydrated, frequently moisturizing with good, thick products to combat dryness. Remember that moisturizer is especially effective on damp skin, so apply right after the shower or bath. And keep those showers short — try limiting them to 15 minutes and using lukewarm water.

life HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Taking Care of You

SET YOURSELF UP FOR WELLNESS SUCCESS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

BY KIMBER DEAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

W

hen I think about the holiday season approaching, I like to think of it as a time to set myself up for wellness success.

I'm sure most of you have the holiday routines down for decorating, traveling, gift giving and annual holiday events, and if not, there are plenty of tips you can easily find.

Taking a smarter, stronger and healthier approach now can help improve the quality of life in your golden years. But have you ever thought about how much time and energy you put into your wellness routine during this season?

It’s so important for each of us to fill up our own cup, so we have the resources to pour into others. Here are some of my wellness routine tips for the holidays.

Starting your day with a morning routine is key to setting up the rest of

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

the day for more wellness wins. I like to wake up, grab my cup of Happiness Drinks detoxifier, set myself up by sitting up in my bed against the headboard to meditate for five to 10 minutes and then I journal and/or do my gratitude journal for about five minutes.

You can do your own meditation practice or there are many guided meditations on YouTube or through a myriad of apps available. Meditation is renowned for its ability to lower stress levels by promoting relaxation and reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. Happiness Drinks detoxifier is great for helping to eliminate toxins in the body such as heavy metals, pesticides, impurities and liver detox, which we all can use to help with during the holidays.

Grounding in cold weather is something I try to practice a few times a

week and it can help alleviate symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder by promoting the release of endorphins and boosting mood. Grounding is simply a way of connecting to the Earth and being fully present, often achieved by being barefoot in nature or just touching nature. It has been shown to reduce stress levels by regulating the body's stress response and lowering cortisol levels.

Physical activity is important for overall mental health and stress reduction, as well as peak physical health. Yoga, weightlifting, running, CrossFit or any exercise you enjoy will help reduce cortisol and increase oxytocin, serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, anandamide and more! The holiday season is one of the best times to grab a friend or family member you haven’t seen in a while to go for a walk

life HEALTH AND WELLNESS

or find holiday sales on workout classes to attend together. Interacting with loved ones and forming social bonds during exercise can trigger the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone."

Social interaction during exercise can also boost your mood by stimulating the release of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, all of which promote feelings of happiness, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.

Eating nutrient-dense foods also plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Research suggests that there is a significant connection between gut health and mental well-being, with poor gut bacteria linked to conditions like depression and anxiety.

However, it's important to find a balance. Avoiding guilt or negative emotions when indulging occasionally is key to a sustainable and balanced approach to nutrition. Moderation, along with a predominantly healthy diet, can help maintain both physical and mental health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated to allow the body to detox, reduce fatigue, aid in digestion and boost mood. Try to limit sugary beverages and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

A circadian rhythm is your body's natural, internal clock that regulates various biological processes, such as reducing cortisol, over a 24-hour period.

Aligning with your circadian rhythm can promote restful sleep and improved digestion. When traveling, it's essential to be mindful of your natural circadian rhythm and make gradual adjustments to accommodate new time zones, minimizing disruptions to your body's usual schedule. Consider incorporating practices like Yin yoga, a more slowpaced yoga style, or stretching into your bedtime routine for added relaxation and sleep quality. Practicing gratitude and engaging in breathwork techniques can activate the parasympathetic nervous

system, leading to stress reduction and decreased inflammation. I personally enjoy doing this before bedtime so I am out of any fight or flight feelings, and my thoughts from the day can settle.

If you have the resources for additional wellness habits, therapy selfcare and supplements are great tools!

Schedule therapy for before and/or after holiday events that may be triggering.

From work parties to family holidays or Friendsgivings. If you are working on being more proactive, set yourself up for success with a therapist you trust.

Incorporate self-care into your routine, whether it's through indulgent treats like spa treatments or DIY experiences

like home pedicures, relaxing baths with essential oils and Epsom salt, or rejuvenating skin care masks.

Try to stay intentional when creating new healthy holiday habits, and always surround yourself with self-compassion and unconditional love when things don’t go as planned. Find time to let it go when things happen that are out of your control and try to do your new routines again the next day. Your body, mind and soul will be glad you did.

Kimber Dean is the founder of Happiness Drinks, and the author of Happy Food and Happy Baking and Desserts. She is trained in both culinary arts and personal nutrition.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

life ROBINSON'S RAMBLINGS

Celebrating a Century COLUMBIA BUSINESS STANDS THE TEST OF TIME.

H

BY JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON ow many businesses make

Billiard Hall — whose owner got his

highways plan set forth by Gen. John

it to 100 years old?

Booche nickname from Eugene Field —

Pershing, U.S. Highway 40 opened in

According to a 2021

on his way to shop at Neate’s Dry Goods

1925, connecting Kansas City to St.

online article published

and Nowell’s Grocery downtown. Back on

Louis through Columbia, intersecting

by Family Capital, approximately 1,000

campus, a popular place for students to

with Route 7, soon to be renamed U.S.

businesses, or less than one-half of 1% of

engage in a practice called jellying — soda

Highway 63. Columbia’s crossroads were

all businesses in the United States have

dates between classes — was the Davis

complete, and the city was positioned to

survived more than 100 years.

Tea Room, later to become The Shack.

grow even faster.

In Columbia, Booches comes to mind.

Paul quickly became a junior

Ever the entrepreneur, and realizing

And up on Broadway, a 150th birthday

accountant. In those days, visitors to the

the impact of a burgeoning automobile

bash for Boone County National Bank

Columbia Accounting Company looked

market, Paul courted mid-Missouri

(now Central Bank of Boone County) still

out over the growing city from the top

automobile dealerships to do their

reverberates through the community as

floor of Columbia’s venerable Guitar

accounting. Such savvy business sense

the Roots N Blues festival (now renamed

Building, which had opened its five stories

and a reputation for honesty propelled

as the Treeline Music Fest), even though

in 1911.

Paul’s accounting firm forward.

it took a temporary hiatus this year.

100 YEARS AGO

Fresh out of college in 1924, Paul

At the end of World War II, Columbia

looked out those same Guitar Building

grew rapidly. So did the accounting firm,

windows and saw the promise — and the

and Paul hired a platoon of World War II

At the outset of the Roaring ‘20s,

business potential — of a community

veterans who had come to Mizzou on the

Columbia was growing. Business was

whose population had reached 13,000,

GI bill. These members of “the greatest

booming. The University of Missouri

plus 7,000 students.

generation” — George Keepers, Ed Oliver,

was building Memorial Stadium and Memorial Union.

Yet it wasn’t until 1923 that local

He knew the city was poised to become a crossroads in Missouri. A 1920 campaign to “Lift Missouri Out of the Mud” led

Tom Payne and Lou Rackers — would help build the business.

In 2023, at 100 years old, Williams-

Columbia telephone directories

to voter passage of the Centennial

Keepers employs approximately 60

showed an accounting firm. Columbia

Road Law, a constitutional amendment

certified public accountants with 125 total

Accounting Company was operated by

providing for $60 million in bonds to be

staff serving eight primary industries.

A. G. Thompson, who also served as the

secured by a gasoline tax and automobile

The firm recruits the best CPA graduates

city comptroller. His constituents called

license fees.

from across the region and prepares them

him Grady.

By 1923, a young Mizzou student

Already in Columbia, Missouri

for leadership roles to help their clients,

Route 7 twisted through town from the

their communities, their coworkers and

named Paul Williams had begun

north, winding 30 miles south to the

their families.

working for Grady Thompson in the city

1896 Missouri River Bridge — a bridge

comptroller’s office. At the same time,

that swiveled to allow steamboats to

John Drake Robinson is a former director

Williams began working at Thompson’s

pass. From the bridge, visitors could

of the Missouri Division of Tourism. Read

Columbia Accounting Company.

see Missouri’s brand-new state capitol,

more of John's rants at johndrakerobinson.

As Paul learned the accounting

completed at a cost of $3.5 million.

com/blog.

profession, he would pass Booches

As part of the fledgling national

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

41

ADVERTISEMENT

life ULTIMATE LIST

Gym Jams

5 SONGS PERFECT FOR YOUR NEXT WORKOUT.

BY JOE LOSE WELCOME TO OUR ULTIMATE LISTS! In each issue, you will find a curated selection of things to listen to or watch, put together by either an on-air talent from Zimmer Communications or a member of the Inside Columbia staff. For this issue, Joe Lose from the Dove has shared his ultimate playlist for hitting the gym. Scan the QR code on this page to hear the full playlist. Enjoy!

You might be comfy working out where the only sounds are the weights clanking, your heavy breathing and funny grunting noises. But for the rest of us, we have our headphones. Or the gym music. Sometimes Wilson’s on Forum is cranking perfect tunes and while I love “You Were Meant for Me” by Jewel, it’s not the best soundtrack when I’m trying to set a new deadlift personal record.

“Sweet Emotion” — Aerosmith

Aerosmith is unquestionably the greatest band of all time. The second this song starts when you walk into an almost empty gym before the sun comes up, you know it’s going to be an incredible workout. Plenty of legendary guitar riffs to keep you pumped!

“Message in a Bottle” — Taylor Swift

Hey, some of us like to groove a little … or do a full dance between sets! Don’t judge. It’s good cardio. Careful with this one, though! It’s easy to forget where you are and start singing along while you’re repping out!

“Nightrain” — Guns N’ Roses

This is the song you turn up when you’re ready to set a personal record or you think you’re totally gassed. It’s also an ode to the band’s favorite extremely strong and cheap wine, which is just extra motivation knowing that you can cheers to your hardcore workout later.

“C’Mon” — Kesha

You can never go wrong with Kesha! Ever. From the fun and provocative verses to the huge, unmercifully catchy chorus, this song is going to fire you up and put a smile on your face! It’s good to have fun during your workout!

“The Outsiders” — Eric Church

Like every artist on this list, you could pick at least 10 of his songs and they’d all work. “The Outsiders” is just a big, hard hitting, Metallica-sounding rocker from The Chief. A perfect “Us against them” anthem for those who pump iron. We’re a different breed and we love it!

SCAN TO DOWNLOAD THE PLAYLIST

Listen to Joe Lose weekday mornings on 98.3 The Dove.

42

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

SEMENT

life WEDDING

‘One Heck of a Weekend’ COLUMBIA COUPLE TIES THE KNOT WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER AND MAGIC.

Photos by Ivory Grove Photography/Nichole Park Photography

BY MADELEINE LEROUX

Zola Crowder and Ian Heck were married June 24 at the Cedar Creek Hotel & Event Center in New Haven, Missouri.

F

or Zola Crowder and Ian Heck,

perfect, from start to finish. Zola’s family

getting married was truly a

helped style her hair and makeup, create

family affair.

the wall decorations for the reception, as

The Columbia couple

well as the invitations and signage. Ian’s

met more than five years ago at the

family stepped in as the officiant, flower

FieldHouse, when both were students

girl and ring bearer, as well as making a

dinner cake made by Butter & Flour. “Our

at the University of Missouri. Although

beautiful letter box. Family friends served

wedding was one heck of a weekend,” Zola

neither Zola nor Ian were Columbia

as ushers and performed the music for the

says. “So much love, laughter and magic.”

natives, the pair opted to make their home

ceremony. “It truly incorporated family

here after graduation. So when it came

throughout the entire weekend,” Zola says.

was not a cloud in the sky for the lakeside

to their wedding in Missouri, family and

While the weekend was spent at the

nuptials, a light sprinkle of rain began to fall

At the ceremony itself, even though there

friends from all over the world arrived

Cedar Creek Hotel & Event Center in

to the delight of all. “People always say it’s

to join in the celebration. “We were able

New Haven, Missouri, Columbia was

good luck if it rains on your wedding day,”

to spend the entire weekend in this little

represented in so many ways. From Zola’s

Zola says. “It truly felt like God and our loved

slice of paradise surrounded by our closest

dream dress, which was found at Vows

ones were watching from above.”

friends and family,” Zola says.

Bridal & Formal and altered by Designs X

And the families of both the bride and

Nadine, to Ian’s wedding band created by

groom worked to ensure the weekend was

Buchroeders Jewelers and the rehearsal

To submit your wedding for consideration, send information and photos to mleroux@mailzimmer.com.

Include your and your spouse's names, occupations, wedding date, location and your photographer's name.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

43

Empowered to Make Lives Better Our Commitment to Community McClure is dedicated to fulfilling our vision of making lives better in more ways than one. Through the McClure Foundation, we're opening doors to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) opportunities, empowering individuals, and strengthening our communities.

Our commitment to positive change extends far and wide.

Supporting Education and Innovation Through the McClure Foundation, we've been able to provide vital support to non-profit organizations such as the Mizzou Society of Women Engineers, local robotics teams, and science clubs. We've also partnered with initiatives like Build My Future, which offers hands-on learning experiences for high school students.

By fostering educational and innovative endeavors, we aim to create a brighter future.

Celebrating Our Team and Giving Back Every year, we celebrate "McClure Day" as a testament to our team members and their dedication to our communities. On our 65th anniversary, we took this celebration to the next level by empowering each office to engage in volunteer activities. Our commitment to community service is reflected in the eight hours of volunteer time off we offer to all team members annually. Additionally, we encouraged each office to make a $1,000 donation to an organization of their choice. The results were astounding. Our collective effort translated into over 200 hours of volunteering and more than $10,000 in donations to local organizations that share our commitment to the communities we serve.

A Lifelong Commitment to Giving Back Our dedication to making lives better extends beyond annual celebrations. Locally, we've formed a lasting partnership with

44 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Coyote Hill, an organization providing foster care services and a safe haven for children. Throughout the year, we've contributed by offering services for their new multipurpose building and updating play areas. Our commitment also extends to heartwarming initiatives like our adoption of a child for Christmas through Coyote Hill's "Christmas for Kids" program.

This gesture brought joy to a child's holiday season with toys, bedding, clothes, books, and more.

Paying it Forward We have sought to further empower our team members to make a positive impact in their communities. Our "Pay it Forward" campaign just before the holidays has provided team members with $50 gift cards enclosed in "Pay it Forward" cards. We encouraged our team to extend a helping hand to those in need. The responses were heartwarming.

Team members shared their gift cards with daycare teachers, nurses, families in need, and even middle school basketball teams facing fundraising challenges during the pandemic.

The "Pay it Forward" mindset isn't confined to the holiday season.

We continue to promote this spirit throughout the year. Whether it's providing "Fueling Kindness" gift cards to help with rising gas prices or giving team members the opportunity to make a difference, our commitment to making lives better is unwavering.

Empowered to Make Lives Better At McClure, we all share a common vision: making lives better.

These three words are more than a slogan; they're the driving force behind our actions. They guide us in seeking new talent and applying our skills to enhance the communities we serve.

Through enduring relationships with our clients and team members, we engineer a better future for all.

Empowered to make lives better.

At McClure, we all share a vision for making lives better. In fact, those three words have become our core vision, driving how we seek new talent and apply their skills for the communities we serve. Through close, lasting relationships with our clients and team members, we engineer a better future for all.

573.814.1568 | www.mcclurevision.com INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 45

Holiday Hosting Learn the Jingle Bells and Whistles to Planning the Most Festive Festivities.

By Zola Heck | Photos by L.G Patterson

W

hen it comes to the holiday season, there are so many things to get you in the spirit.

Whether it’s hosting a holiday party, putting up festive decorations with your family, finding the right Christmas tree for your home, serving a nextlevel holiday cocktail or elevating your next movie night or a jolly party with a special sweet treat, we’ve got you covered this season.

So, grab your fuzzy socks, cozy sweaters and enjoy this guide to preparing your home for all the holiday festivities.

46 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 47

Planning a Holiday Happening I

f hosting holiday parties is your thing, you might be looking for ways to lighten the load, try new things, fix the flow or just decorating tips.

But where do you start?

Andrea Lyn Seppo, owner of Andrea Lyn Events, says there is a quick checklist to go through before beginning the planning process.

“When are you having it, how many people are you having, where are you hosting it and is there a theme?”

Once you’ve answered those basic questions, Seppo says you’ll want to determine what type of guests you are inviting. “Are they older, are they younger, are they guests who will want activities for the party? Are you sitting around doing a gift exchange?”

This is an important piece, as it will all affect the activities, the food and, of course, the theme. “When we think holiday party, we think red and green, but there is more than that,” Seppo says. “This year’s holiday trends are very much a natural tone, so think all the natural colors, with little pops of red, light brown and sage green.”

When planning out the food and beverage, Seppo says it all comes down to the vibe you want to present.

“Are you picking up party trays from a grocery store? Are you getting a hot, catered buffet or are you having a sitdown dinner? Do you want something casual, or is it a black tie, cocktail feel?” Something many people forget

48 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

about when planning out the food is to make sure you are considering all the dietary restrictions because that is “one way to make your guests feel extra special.”

Once you figure out the type of food and beverage service, Seppo says you’ll want to ensure that wherever you choose to host has a good flow.

“Where are you setting the food up, do you have a drink station, and for activities, make sure to keep it simple but be creative,” Seppo says.

Make sure to be realistic when planning your party because, as Seppo says, “Pinterest can be your best friend and your worst enemy.” You don’t want to get overwhelmed trying to get your party to look exactly like the winter wonderland created online.

Seppo says one way to elevate your home for your next holiday party is to “clear the clutter and put away the pets. That makes people feel more comfortable. And try to avoid overdecorating. Remember that less is more, and candles always help.”

If all of this sounds overwhelming and you would rather feel like a guest at your own event, Seppo says to consider hiring someone to assist in the planning process and help at the event itself. “We can help with getting the whole party set up, keeping it all going, clearing plates, etc.” For more information on Andrea Lyn Events, visit andrealynevents.com.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 49

50 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Picking the Perfect Tree N

o matter how festive you get for the holidays, one of the most crucial items for many is the Christmas tree and finding the right one for your home.

Helmi Sheely, owner of Helmi's Gardens, says while there are several types of Christmas trees to choose from, pine trees are native to Missouri. "You will see Scotch pines, a short-lived tree, or sometimes people do white pines," Sheely says. They not only look nice, but they might be nicer to your wallet, as well. "Several different types of cut Christmas trees are available, but they aren't (as) cost effective to grow here, so they have to be shipped in."

Sheely says the only downside to getting a pine is they don't necessarily look like the classic Christmas tree.

"There is nothing wrong with them, but for many people, when you think of a Christmas tree, a pine is not what you see in your head,” she says. “But that's what grows here." Sheely says the more traditional tree often seen is a spruce or a fir, and if you choose to buy a fake tree, it's typically a rendition of the spruce or fir.

The benefit of a fir tree is it's easier to decorate, Sheely says. "I like firs better; they are fragrant and friendly, spruces are typically darker green, sharper and more difficult to decorate."

Sheely says the right tree depends on what kind of holiday ambiance you want to create in your home. The Balsam fir is known for its classic conical shape and fragrant scent, while the

Douglas fir is more compact and has softer needles. For those who want a tree with sturdy branches to accommodate heavy ornaments, the Fraser fir is a top pick. "I like Frasier fir; it smells like Christmas to me, it looks like Christmas to me, it's a very common Christmas tree," Sheely says.

"But it's all up to you. Some people have memories that are different, and they are going to lean towards what their memories are."

No matter what you pick, Sheely says the most important thing to do is make sure the tree is fresh. "If it's fresh, it will be heavy; light ones need water," Sheely says. "If you can handle that tree like it is made out of nothing, that is a bad sign."

When buying a real tree, it's also important to make sure you time the purchase well. Sheely says as tempting as it might be, you don't want to purchase a tree before Thanksgiving "because the later, the better.” To ensure your tree lasts as long as possible, Sheely says it's essential to keep it from drying out, even if that means sacrificing the picture-perfect tree by the fireplace photo opportunity.

"Never put the tree by the window.

Keep it away from the sun and the fireplace because it will dry out that much faster."

Overall, the choice is yours, and Sheely says you can't go wrong with the tree you choose because finding the perfect Christmas tree to fit your style and space is all part of the festive fun. For more information on Helmi's Gardens, visit helmisgardens.com.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 51

Creating a Hot Cocoa Bar

M

aking a hot cocoa bar at home is like inviting warmth and comfort right into your living space. It's a delightful way to infuse your home with the cozy spirit of the holiday season, whether it’s just for you and your family, or the talk of your next holiday party.

To achieve this warm and cozy creation, start by picking a designated area to set up the bar. Once you have an idea of the space, you can figure out just how many items you'll need to fill it. Then, it's up to you to customize the bar to fit whatever aesthetic you choose.

Do you want it to be a to-go bar? If

so, make sure to have disposable cups set up at your station. Do you want it to be a classic bar or a charcuterie board concept? If so, make sure to have the right serving trays to create your perfect platter.

There are truly so many ways to make the bar or board your own.

Whether you are putting all your toppings in decorative mason jars, placing festive mugs out to use, having signs made to label each topping, adding a festive table runner, making gingerbread, laying out greenery or deciding how to present the hot chocolate. You

really can't go wrong when it comes to creating a hot cocoa bar for your guests to enjoy. The best part is that everyone can customize their cocoa to their heart's content, making it a fun and interactive experience for guests of all ages. You can even add a splash of adult flair with some liqueurs like peppermint schnapps or Irish cream for the grown-ups.

Whether it's a chilly winter evening or a holiday gathering, a hot cocoa bar is guaranteed to create heartwarming memories at home.

Suggested toppings for a hot cocoa bar Candy canes

Toffee bits

Mini chocolate chips

Hot cocoa mix

Mini marshmallows

Cocoa powder

Cinnamon sticks

Stir sticks

Whipped cream

Flavored syrups

Sprinkles

Peppermint schnapps (for the adult bar)

Caramel sauce Chocolate syrup

52 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Irish Cream (for the adult bar)

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 53

Crafting a Holiday Cocktail

54 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

W

hen planning a party or just having a couple of friends over for the holidays, having a special cocktail can take your gathering to the next level.

Greta and Ava Gunderson, owners of Son of a Gun, a new bar in downtown Columbia, have created the perfect holiday cocktail to present to your guests this season! The Santa’s helper blends the flavors of bourbon, Luxardo, homemade cinnamon syrup and bitters to create a warm yet merry cocktail.

Santa’s Helper Cocktail Ingredients Cranberries Sugar Cinnamon sticks 2 ounces bourbon 1 ounce Luxardo 1 ounce homemade cran-cinnamon simple syrup 2 dashes of angostura bitters

Instructions First, make the cran-cinnamon simple syrup by combining equal parts water, sugar, cranberries and cinnamon sticks in a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then strain the liquid into a glass jar or vessel.

To make the cocktail, stir bourbon, Luxardo, cran-cinnamon simple syrup and bitters together and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with a cranberry and a cinnamon stick, and enjoy!

Holiday Happenings F

rom parades and festivals to plays and concerts, there is a wide variety of ways to enjoy the holidays in mid-Missouri.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites, to ensure you have every opportunity to celebrate this year. Find more events at insidecolumbia.net/events.

Nov. 4 Holiday Shop Hop, Enchanted Forest Premier and Horse-Drawn Carriages The District Enjoy the best of the season in downtown Columbia as the District kicks off the holidays. The all-day shopping event includes special offers from downtown retailers, along with complimentary refreshments. Then, see the premier of the District’s new Enchanted Forest at the corner of Broadway and Ninth Street at 7 p.m. Plus, the return of free horse-drawn carriage rides will begin at 4 p.m.

10 a.m.-8 p.m.; free; discoverthedistrict.com Nov. 24 Magic Tree Lighting The Crossing Head to the Crossing to see the official lighting of its Magic Tree at 5:30 p.m. Kettle corn and hot chocolate will be on site and Clear99 will emcee. The Magic Tree will stay lit every night through the first week of January. And on

Dec. 8-16 Shelter Insurance Winter Wonderland Garden of Lights Shelter Gardens Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at Shelter Insurance’s magical botanical garden. The gorgeous display will include a few new lights this year, as well as a coffee truck on site each night.

5:30-7:30 p.m.; free

Dec. 1, Dec. 8 and Dec. 15, visit the site to enjoy music, hot chocolate and activities. 5-8 p.m.; free; thecrossingchurch.com Nov. 30 Magic Tree Festival Village of Cherry Hill Nothing gets us in the spirit of the season like enjoying the Magic Tree in the Village of Cherry Hill. This year, enjoy the lighting of the tree with Y107, Santa, face painting and food trucks. Plus, check out CoMo Picnics to see how you can plan a perfect holiday picnic right outside the Magic Tree (and still be warm thanks to a heated bubble).

5-8 p.m.; free; villageofcherryhill.com/ magic-tree Dec. 1 Living Windows The District Watch downtown Columbia come alive as the District hosts its annual Living Windows Festival. See live performances, visit open houses, shop and enjoy stunning holiday

décor, as well as visits with Santa.

Remember, it’s free to park in the downtown garages after 6 p.m., so bundle up and head out!

6-8 p.m.; free; discoverthedistrict.com Dec. 5-17 Bright Lights/Holiday Nights Veterans United Enjoy more than 1 million lights in a mile-long magical journey. Make sure to plan extra time, as this popular drive-thru light show attracts many each year.

7-10:30 p.m.; free; facebook.com/VULights

Santa’s H Ingredien Cranberr Sugar Cinnamo 2 ounces 1 ounce L 1 ounce h syrup 2 dashes

Instructions First, make th combining eq and cinnamo a boil. Stir un then strain th To make t cran-cinnam gether and st cranberry an

Dec. 15-23 Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre Now in its ninth year, take a trip to Arrow Rock to be part of the Lyceum Theatre’s holiday tradition of bringing to life the familiar story of a seemingly heartless miser given one last chance at redemption by four visiting ghosts. The timeless message, and delightful holiday music will get you and your entire family in the Christmas spirit.

Times vary; $20-$49; lyceumtheatre.org

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 55

Illustration provided by Burrell Behavioral Health

56 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

NAVIGATING HOLIDAY

S S E STR Find Time for Self-Care and Reflection This Season.

BY MADELEINE LEROUX

T

he holiday season brings so much with it — celebrations, family gatherings, traditions, dinners and more. And while each piece brings its own layer of fun and revelry, this season also can bring some less welcome feelings, like stress and anxiety.

“There’s this duality at the holidays where it's like we feel like we should be happy, we should be joyful, we should be excited,” says Bailey Pyle.

Pyle is the licensed mental health provider for Burrell Behavioral Health’s Be Well Initiatives. The Be Well programs focus on providing tools and resources to build a wellness community that seeks to “help enhance the emotional health and well-being of individuals, organizations and communities.”

When it comes to the holiday season, Pyle says it’s easy to get caught up in what should be happening, instead of taking a beat and examining what you’re actually feeling and getting to the reason for that. But that introspection can bring up another feeling many are all too familiar with — guilt. “Then we feel guilty when we are not just full of joy and hope and cheer when the reality is holidays can be a very stressful time for all of us,” Pyle says.

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5 TIPS TO HELP DURING THE HOLIDAYS Say ‘No’ if you feel overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to decline an invitation or politely refuse to host an annual event if the idea of doing so is taking all the fun out of the season.

Be kind to your wallet. The holidays can be expensive for everyone and financial strain can cause anxiety and stress. Consider opting out of gift exchanges and instead suggesting low-cost or free activities to share with loved ones.

Know when to end unwanted conversations. If things start taking a turn for the worse, leave the room or step outside to remove yourself from the situation before things escalate.

Honor those who have passed on. It’s OK to be sad during the holiday season. But you can cope by honoring their memory rather than mourning their absence.

Don’t be alone if you don’t want to. There is nothing wrong with spending the season in solitude if that’s what you want. But if you’re lonely and don’t have family or friends to turn to, consider finding a way to volunteer or looking online for others to spend time with.

Information from Mental Health America. Find more at bit.ly/MHAholidays.

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D E M L E OVERWH Through Be Well, Pyle is able to focus on preventative measures to help people focus on self-care in small, sustainable ways, including a variety of tools and resources available at bewellcommunity.org. These include links to regular Zoom meetings where participants can connect with others and a licensed provider, as well as self-care challenges, a community playlist and a feelings finder.

The Trials of Traditions One difficulty about the holiday season is its traditions. Every family creates different traditions over the years, and when families begin to change, those traditions can become a little more troublesome. “With the holidays being a space where we are so often rooted in tradition, I think sometimes we become hesitant … to examine are these really working for us,” Pyle says. “Sometimes there's that hesitancy to pause and assess: OK, this has been a ritual and routine and a tradition for us, but is it working still? And if it's not, how can we adjust it so it will work for us?”

Those family changes could be anything from welcoming new members to adjusting to the loss of a loved one. When families begin to look different, it may be time to assess whether particular traditions are continuing to work, but that means having honest, open conversations with everyone involved, and that can be tricky, Pyle says. That’s why it’s important to be “realistic about what is important for us to hold on to, what are we willing to adjust or move so this better suits everybody and where we are now this season,” she says.

Celebrating After Loss After the loss of a loved one, the holiday season can be particularly tough. Because every family is different, Pyle says it’s important to assess where everyone is and find the best way to move forward. For some, it may be naming that exact loss and filling the season with memories and recollections of moments.

But others may find that method more difficult to deal with, which is why Pyle emphasizes taking the time to figure out

Take a minute for yourself and try one of these methods to bring yourself back into the moment.

Take deep breaths.

Vent to a friend.

Listen to a favorite song.

Enjoy a moment of bonding with a child or pet.

Watch a funny video.

Find moments of small beauty, like noticing the lights on your Christmas tree or the way leaves fall to the ground (or even snow).

Doodle or color for a few minutes.

Take a walk.

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“JUST TRY DOING SOMETHING THAT IGNITES US AND CONTINUES TO ROOT US INTO THAT HOPE AND JOY WITHIN OURSELVES.” BAILEY PYLE BURRELL BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

what you need and maybe finding another family member who relates in the same way. “Everybody's grief process is different, and everybody is in a different stage of grief, whether it's the first Christmas or the 10th Christmas,” Pyle says. “We all process that so differently and there's really no timeline for it.”

And if talking isn’t something that you’re up to, Pyle says to remember that you are allowed to step away and remove yourself from the conversation. “Take a moment to step outside and just notice what you see, smell, hear, feel or going to the bathroom; just doing whatever we need to do to give ourselves that grace and space,” she says.

While that may seem like a simple and easy concept, it can be an extremely difficult thing for so many. As Pyle notes, many people are great caretakers, able to validate and give understanding to others, but are much harder on themselves.

Pyle says it’s important to give your feelings validation and allow yourself “a bit of compassion and love for where we are

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in that moment.”

A Preventative Mindset Pyle says one of the initiatives they do each year is Be Well for the Holidays, which is a virtual experience that helps people get into a “preventative mindset of where am I and how can I best be prepared before all of the beautiful, wonderful, messy chaos starts?”

In fact, she says, incorporating some relaxation techniques or activities into your regular routine will make it easier to use them when really needed. “When our brains are in that state of crisis or overwhelm or stress, it's harder for us to cognitively think about those things that help us,” Pyle says. “If we're practicing or thinking about those things beforehand, it can kind of set us up to better manage or better navigate and walk through those situations.”

To find more resources or take part in the Be Well initiatives, visit bewellcommunity.org.

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The bank of finally finding Do you ever wonder “Why am I even with this bank?”

It’s too easy to accept a mediocre experience when banking is just a part of life. Before, it seemed like I had to jump through every hoop for my bank. I wanted a bank that would actually work for me.

Look, switching banks is a big decision. I never made the effort before, because I assumed I’d just get the same thing. After switching to The Bank of Missouri, I’ll never wonder if my bank can do more.

The bank of not settling.

The Bank of Missouri.

Switch to better. bankofmissouri.com/dont-settle

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When you’re dealing with a question, it can be daunting to find answers. In the age of technology, there are limitless possibilities when searching for help and many of them are, quite frankly, not that helpful.

But don’t worry. Columbia is home to all kinds of experts, ranging from financial services to mental health to auto repair, and they are ready and willing to take on your questions. Learn from the local pros and see why each is at the top of their game.

Ready? It’s time to “Ask the Expert!”

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What is the best foundation to start with for a collector car build?

For us, money is best spent up front, meaning spend it on the original car you intend on building upon. A lot of people might think the car they found in the back 40 for $500 is a steal, but those are typically riddled with rust and components that are no longer repairable.

Instead, spend the extra money on a running and driving example of your dream car. Those that have had previous restorations are always best, as you’ll spend less when it comes to the time involved.

Tyler Willy Founder

T GKR MOTOR CARS 816-812-1037 8429 Wylde Place GKRmotorcars.com 64 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

yler Willy, founder of GKR Motor on that will dramatically help the price and Cars, grew up working on trucks and get the project done faster. “Custom builds tractors, finding that building things can quickly increase in costs if an initial “just naturally stuck with me.” Now, he is project is not fully inspected,” he says. able to take that passion No matter what your into all kinds of custom dream car is, the experts car builds for clients, at GKR Motor Cars can using his expertise to We are passionate help make it a reality. ensure each client gets about cars and that That’s because they know the best possible result that it’s more than just translates into the for the best possible price. a car. “We understand work we do.

“We are passionate about that a custom car is not cars and that translates just a product to buy. It into the work we do,” Willy is an experience, and we says. “What we love most is talking about include the clients so they are able to place a client's passion for cars and seeing their their personal touches,” Willy says. “They face when they finally see their dream car.” get what they want and will remember the Willy says when it comes to custom process forever.” builds, what truly drives the cost up is time, so whatever a client can do to cut down

Why does my sewer back up so much?

There could be a variety of reasons why a sewer is backing up. There may be a break in the pipe or an older sewer with a pipe allowing root intrusion at the joints. It's also possible something is getting flushed down the drain that shouldn't, or it's just bad plumbing.

There may be an instance where a drain is not entirely cleaned; in other words, it's getting a hole poked through and not completely opened back up. Working with a professional who can ensure a drain is completely open and solve any other issues is essential.

Brian Wear Owner

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lumbing issues, whether big understand the entire process. “The or small, can be complex and best way to do this is to show the cuspotentially costly if not handled tomer what you’re talking about and correctly. Professionals like Brian Wear, explain so they can understand. If the owner of Brian Wear customer doesn’t trust Plumbing, bring years you, it’s difficult for them We treat every of experience and a to believe what you’re customer like a deep understanding telling them,” Wear says. of plumbing systems, At Brian Wear Plumbneighbor because ensuring that probing, customers are they are. lems are diagnosed made to feel like family. accurately and fixed “We treat every cusefficiently. “When we come out, we tomer like a neighbor because they always camera every drain so we know are,” Wear says. Customers know it's completely open and to check if that when they choose Brian Wear there are any other problems,” Wear Plumbing, they are choosing quality, says. Not only will he fix the problem, reliability and a trusted partner to adbut he will make sure his customers dress plumbing concerns.

BRIAN WEAR PLUMBING

573-864-4463 2501 Rangeline St. Ste B brianwearplumbing.com

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What can I do to address my child’s progressing nearsightedness?

Interventions are now available to slow down the progression of myopia, which in kids, tends to result in a higher prescription for your child year after year. This not only has a significant impact on day-to-day activities but puts a child at greater risk for sight-threatening eye health problems later in life. Missouri Eye Consultants offers treatment options collectively known as myopia control. These options include specialty contacts lenses and nightly eye drops.

Dr. Jacqueline Byrd Optometrist

M MISSOURI EYE CONSULTANTS 573-874-2030 500 N. Keene St., suite 103 MOeyes.com

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yopia is the clinical name for nearour patients to provide it.” Not all levels of sightedness, the ability to see well myopia are created equally. As the amount up close but have blurry distance of myopia increases, the risk of eye diseases vision. It results from the eyeball growing lon- like cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment ger than it should which and myopic maculopathy causes incoming light to We can’t go back and increase. For parents, the best be focused on the wrong time to act is when your child undo what’s already location. has a low amount of myopia. done, but we can As children grow, their “We can’t go back and undo eyes continue to grow as what’s already done, but we reduce progression well, resulting in progrescan reduce progression going forward. sion of their myopia going forward.” throughout childhood. Myopia is caused by In addition to myopia management, the both genetics and lifestyle: Having parents practice offers comprehensive eye care — who are myopic increases a child’s risk, along everything from glasses and contact lenses to with environmental factors such as more upmanagement of disease by both optometrists close work (using devices like cellphones or and ophthalmologists who provide cataract tablets) and less time outdoors. surgery and specialized care. Missouri Eye Dr. Jacqueline Byrd says now that the Consultants has offices in two locations in technology exists to do something about Columbia, as well as in Macon, Moberly, myopia, which has become a global epiMontgomery City, Ashland and California. demic, the practice “feels a responsibility to

Christian Howell RN CPSN

What are the best aesthetic treatments to address the aging process?

We cannot stop the aging process, but we can age gracefully. There are several services including Botox, dermal fillers/collagen stimulators, laser treatments, medical grade skin care, bioidentical hormones and weight loss that can all help with graceful aging. The key is to consult with a qualified aesthetic professional who can customize a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals, helping you achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Christian Howell, RN CPSN Managing Partner & Master Cosmetic Injector

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urora Medical Spa has well-trained provided.” providers in the field of aesthetic Not only will you get the best medicine, ready to help you get the treatments, but at Aurora, you also will be results of your dreams. Christian Howell, treated like family. “We get to know you managing partner and personally here,” Howell RN nurse injector, says People want to look says. Aurora will offer a Aurora Medical Spa and feel their very complimentary full face prides itself on excellent and skin assessment best, and it is very to ensure all of your outcomes and results. rewarding to help “People want to look and expectations are met. feel their very best, and it people accomplish “Your face and skin are is very rewarding to help always your ‘best outfit’ their goals. people accomplish their that you put on every day, goals,” she says. Howell so come visit us here at says all staff are extensively trained to Aurora Medical Spa Columbia and let us “provide the very best treatments and upturn back the hands of time,” Howell says. to-date expertise on all cosmetic services

AURORA MEDICAL SPA COLUMBIA 573-424-5443 505 E. Nifong Blvd., suite 107 auroramedicalspa.com

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Will 2024 be a buyer's or seller's market?

For homebuyers and sellers, 2024 will look much like 2023 – confused. Inventories of homes for sale are still low, which usually benefits sellers with higher prices, but this year it hasn’t. Mortgage interest rates are still high, and though this should slow buyer demand, it hasn’t. Predictions show there will be some growth in home prices in 2024, but it should be closer to the historic norms of 3-5% per year.

Alice Leeper

Broker-Salesperson

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HOME TOWN COMO GROUP RE/MAX BOONE REALTY 573-489-1458 showmehouses.com

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hether you are looking to information is essential to understand buy or sell a home, Alice since buying or selling a home is a Leeper, Broker-Salesperson significant life choice. for the Home Town COMO Group of For Leeper, her focus is ensuring she RE/MAX Boone Realty, answers all questions and says it’s all about staythat the process is straight Fundamentally, we ing local when gethelp clients transition forward for all clients. ting your information.

“Fundamentally, we help to the next stage “All real estate is local. clients transition to the in their lives as The national press next stage in their lives smoothly as we can. and social media tend as smoothly as we can,” to highlight trends Leeper says. and market activity guaranteed to get So don’t try to tackle this critical the most readership,” she says. “Often, decision yourself; “put my experithese stories do not reflect real activity ence, expertise and connections to or trends in the local market.” Local work for you.”

How can I make sure my child isn’t falling behind in reading skills?

One way to ensure children are on track with their reading skills is to use structured literacy, a specialized, evidence-based approach to teaching reading. It involves a systematic, step-by-step sequence for teaching letters and sounds, ensuring a solid foundation.

Multisensory techniques engage multiple senses to reinforce learning, while ongoing assessment allows for tailored instruction.

Structured literacy is especially effective for those with dyslexia, providing them with the tools to become confident readers. To ensure your child can learn to read using structured literacy, it’s essential to find an educator or school trained to use this method.

Dr. Jill Dunlap Brown

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r. Jill Dunlap Brown, founding my career in this field," she points partner/CEO of CALE out. "I've had the privilege of helping Education & Company, has many children with their reading skills been helping students and schools and have authored a book aimed at use the structured helping teachers with the I've had the privilege same." literacy approach of helping many to reading since Brown says each children with their 2005. “When I am child is different, and at reading skills and have CALE, educators make not working with students at CALE, I authored a book aimed it a priority to ensure am out in schools all students receive the at helping teachers helping teachers education that best fits with the same. learn how to use their needs. “We believe these processes with students,” she in using assessment to determine says. Brown says this method requires the needs of each student and then expertise and training to ensure each matching that need to a specific child learns directly from a teacher. learning plan that will ensure reading "I've spent a significant amount of growth,” she says.

CALE EDUCATION & COMPANY 573-777-1300 caleedco.com

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Will eliminating a mole's food source (i.e. grub control) resolve my mole issue?

Grub control does not resolve a mole issue because grubs only make up 10-20% of the mole's diet. The majority of a mole's diet (70-80%) consists of earthworms, which are a beneficial organism for the soil.

Peter Riney Owner

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CRITTER CONTROL OF CENTRAL MISSOURI 573-441-0060 2000 E. Broadway #136 Crittercontrolcentralmissouri.com

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eter Riney has always been That’s why you can trust the crew interested in nature and wildlife, at Critter Control to not only solve which is what led him to becomyour problem, but to do it in the best ing owner of Critter Control of Central way for all involved. “When resolving Missouri. His business a mole issue, we utilize allows him to combine trapping techniques only,” his love of the outWe not only get the Riney says. “We do not use doors with his desire to critters out, we keep chemicals or toxicants and help educate people we are extremely efficient them out! on commonly misunwith our methods.” derstood or unpopular Without the help of an critters, including snakes, spiders and expert, Riney says people can spend a rodents. “Our mission is to provide our lot of time and money trying to resolve customers with the most comprehenan issue like moles only to fail because sive resolution to their pest or wildlife they don’t have the proper knowledge needs while maintaining the integrity of and experience. “Our goal is to effithe natural environment and protecting ciently resolve a client's situation with our ecosystem,” Riney says. “We not only integrity,” he says. get the critters out, we keep them out!”

What are the most common misconceptions people have about cannabis concentrates?

Those who are unfamiliar with cannabis concentrates often wonder if they’re safe. If you buy from a dispensary, concentrates must be third-party tested to ensure we meet the safety standards of product consumption. The labs test various things, including residual solvents, microbial activity, heavy metals and pesticides.

Manufacturers must pass all tests to be able to sell products. Before medical and recreational marijuana, people would be doing home extractions with no way to tell if it is safe to consume, so make sure to get your products at a dispensary you trust.

Max Coffin

Regional Extraction Manager

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hen learning about cannabis extraction lab, we keep the extracts products, Max Coffin, true to the plant, which means our regional extraction manager cannabis derived products are all at Good Day Farm, says the most extracted from in-house flower with important thing is to no other additives,” he speak with experts. says.

Not only are we good “With the world of Whether you are people, but we make social media, it can looking for a new some dang good be difficult to know product to try, or cannabis products. what the correct learning about cannabis information is to for the first time, Coffin listen to and follow. Especially in the says at Good Day Farm you will find cannabis space where there is not not only true experts in the cannabis a lot of research and development industry, but approachable people similar to other industries,” he says. providing quality cannabis products At Good Day Farm, the goal is for Missouri. “Not only are we good to find consumers the perfect, yet people, but we make some dang safe product for their needs. “In the good cannabis products.”

GOOD DAY FARM 573-298-6984 gooddayfarmdispensary.com

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What are the latest trends in kitchen islands available to homeowners?

Design trends are evolving, yet kitchen islands will continue to be valuable additions to homes.

A few of the current trends seen today include smart technology, whether in appliances or kitchen faucets. These options add convenience and control. Several kitchen faucet and appliance companies pair voice-activated technology to provide hands-free control for tech-savvy users.

Built-in charging stations with USB ports or wireless chargers for smartphones and tablets make it easy for islands to be used as a home office or homework area and not just for food prep.

Jenny Anderson

Assistant Manager and Sales Consultant

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Designer Kitchens & Baths 573-445-4481 dkbshowroom.com

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reating the right kitchen island designing their dream kitchen can change your culinary or bathroom," she says. Though space. It's not just about Anderson has been with Designer aesthetics; functionality and fit are Kitchens & Baths for more than 20 equally crucial. years, she says she plans Jenny Anderson, I am constantly learning to continue learning. "I assistant manager am constantly learning about new products and sales about new products and staying up on the consultant for and staying up on the latest trends.

Designer Kitchens latest trends,” she says. & Baths, says while “It's a forever changing incorporating a new trend into your industry that is challenging but also design can be important, finding a rewarding." team with the proper knowledge and When customers work with Designer experience is equally as essential for Kitchens & Baths, Anderson says they a successful remodel. "Our showroom can rest assured that their satisfaction staff combined has over 130 years is guaranteed throughout the entire of experience to assist clients in remodel or new build process.

What kind of prep work is needed before painting my cabinets?

The most crucial part is to clean thoroughly with a household degreaser. This is important to do before sanding to avoid forcing any surface contaminants further into the wood. Then, sand the surface vigorously with 220-grit sandpaper.

This will promote the adhesion of the primer coat and clean the space again to remove any dust and debris created by the sanding process.

Afterward, it would be best to prime with oil-based or shellac primer to block any tannin stains that may show through the topcoat.

Jaclyn Rogers

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n the information age, it’s tempting advantages of hiring a professional to believe that we can accomplish is the peace of mind it provides, just about anything especially when with a little online working on a project A trusted professional guidance and a DIY in the heart of your may not provide the spirit. But sometimes home. "We have a simple hacks that many it's crucial to have a very detailed system people are seeking, professional on your when it comes to but they will offer side to ensure you cabinet painting advice on the correct aren't missing steps involving products; way to do it. that could affect the we really wouldn't longevity and quality of the project. "A recommend DIY'ers using themselves trusted professional may not provide because of their complexity," Ilsley the simple hacks that many people are says. But if you are set on tackling seeking, but they will offer advice on it yourself, Ilsley says the team at the correct way to do it," says Austin Ai Painting will guide you toward Ilsley, co-owner of AI Painting Plus. products that will help ensure a Perhaps one of the most significant successful project.

AI PAINTING PLUS 573-289-2198 6991 S. Sinclair Road aipaintingplus.com

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Does Mutrux Automotive do major auto repairs?

Yes! At Mutrux, we employ four technicians, two of whom are “master technicians” who have years of experience. Whether you need repairs to your brakes, suspension, engine, air conditioning, transmission or cooling system, we can help.

We also tackle tune-ups, oil changes, alignments and maintenance on all makes. So no matter what your auto repair needs are, come to Mutrux Automotive, where we’ll take good care of you and your vehicle.

Ross Mutrux

Owner and Master Technician

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MUTRUX AUTOMOTIVE 573-445-1070 2100 W. Rollins Road Mutruxautomotive.com

74 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

t Mutrux Automotive, the entire says. “We want to be able to look at our staff operates under one very customers in the face, sitting on the simple mission: church pews and bleacher To treat people the seats and in public, knowWhen you become way they would want ing we treated them with one of our customers, to be treated. It’s a mishonesty.” you become part of sion that Ross Mutrux, While many in the our family. owner and master community already see technician, holds close Mutrux as their go-to for to his heart, as he knows that all too small repairs and oil changes, Mutrux often customers are misled on needed says there are quite a few people who repairs, as well as quality of both repairs are surprised to learn that they will and parts. also tackle most major automotive But when people come to Mutrux, repairs. That means you can leave your they can rest assured that they will vehicle in hands you trust. After all, as get a fair price for good work, driven Mutrux says, “When you become one

by Mutrux’s own need to help others. of our customers, you become part of “We are a family-owned business,” he our family.”

How much coverage is the appropriate amount of coverage and how long do I need it?

Every situation is unique, so you should narrow down your options with some questions: Are you the breadwinner of your family? How much income are you trying to protect and how long would you like for your family to continue that level of income if something happened to you unexpectedly? Are you single? If so, you want to make sure that you have enough to pay off any debts that you might leave behind. If you want to leave a legacy, life insurance is a great way to do that. Working with an expert to get accurate answers is the key to getting the right coverage for your needs.

Phyllis Nichols

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ith so many choices for cover- becoming an expert in insurance. “I age, it’s important to work wanted to be sure that I did not fall into with someone who will dedi- that situation myself or ever let anyone cate time to discussing I cared about fall into your needs, how much My agency puts it either,” she says. coverage you currently Nichols wants all her our people first. customers to feel that have, as well as if there are any gaps and ways their needs are not to address those gaps, only met but met in a says Phyllis Nichols of State Farm Insurway that protects them from drastic life ance. “You want a plan that will last as changes. “My agency puts our people long as you need the coverage,” Nichols first,” she says. “We truly do try to resays. search what policies would best fit their After experiencing loss herself, and needs and then work on a plan that is seeing what the income loss did to affordable for them.” her family, Nichols found a passion in

STATE FARM INSURANCE

573-443-8727 phyllisjnichols.com

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What is the best way to protect my family and property from insect pests, mice and termites?

Call us at Steve's Pest Control to schedule a free on-site pest evaluation. We will perform a quick assessment of your home or business and identify areas of concern. We also will discuss some commonsense things to help reduce pest entry and conducive environmental conditions, as well as make recommendations for an effective service program to best protect your property.

Steve Hotsenpiller President

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STEVE’S PEST CONTROL

573-874-2020 Stevespestcontrol.com

76 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

a variety of businesses and residences. “It's he experts at Steve’s Pest Control very gratifying to be that person and comknow that a person’s home is one pany people put their trust in,” Hotsenpiller of their biggest investments and it’s incredibly important to ensure its protected says. “We truly care about people and are committed to giving by working with an them the very best experienced, trustworservice and expertise thy local company.

We truly care about possible.”

That’s what custompeople and are With a team of ers can expect when they work with Steve’s committed to giving them nearly 100 profesPest Control, a familythe very best service and sionals who have more than 600 years owned and operated expertise possible. of combined field company that has speexperience, customers cialized in protecting know that Steve’s will people and their propdo whatever it takes to solve the problem erty in central Missouri for more than 35 at hand. “When we say that we're going to years. President Steve Hotsenpiller says he solve your pest problems, that's a personal loves serving people and solving problems, promise from me and the entire company,” and pest elimination and prevention has Hotsenpiller says. allowed him to build relationships across

Should I get my hormones checked?

Yes, but you should consider more hormones than you realize! While society has pegged the sex hormones as key to male and female health, it’s important to understand how those hormones interact with others, including insulin, cortisol, thyroid and gut hormones, and how inflammation and blood sugar can affect them, as well as cellular energy function. Understanding the potential role of every physical input can give patients numerous levers to affect their feelings of well-being and their health trajectory.

Elizabeth Wilson

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solutions back to her mentor, Dr. William t Women’s Health Associates, Trumbower, who was ahead of his time the medical staff is dedicated to in his approach. Trumbower gave Wilson taking a personalized approach books early in her career showing the to each patient. It’s one of the aspects difference between that Dr. Elizabeth Wilson We view our role bio-identical hormones loves about the clinic, and the pharmaceutiespecially since it allows as educators, cal drugs she had been her to develop a holistic informing patients trained in residency to approach to care. “We prescribe. really try to approach about their Now, Wilson is able patients as individuals health status and to be part of a team at and do not apply a one Women’s Health Associsize-fits-all approach to their numerous ates that cares deeply prescribing hormone treatment options. about best practices replacement therapy,” and evidence-based she says. “We try to place medicine. “We view our role as educators, hormone replacement therapy in the informing patients about their health greater context of overall hormonal and status and their numerous treatment opmetabolic health.” tions,” she says.

Wilson credits her drive to find holistic

WOMEN’S HEALTH ASSOCIATES 573-443-8796 Wha-inc.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 77

Does it matter what insurance company I have when dealing with roofing issues?

Just as much as it matters to have a trusted contractor, you need to make sure you have an insurance company you can rely on to be there for you in times of need. For every roofing job, ensure the professional you choose will check with your home insurer to see if the service could be partially or fully covered.

Alan Murphy

Roofing Salesman

A HEARTLAND HOMES

REMODELING & ROOFING 573-529-2016 Heartlandhomesmo.com

78 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

t Heartland Homes Remodeling gation inspections and drone footage & Roofing, Alan Murphy says of before and after.” It’s essential to the the team is skilled at assessing Heartland Homes team to ensure that roof damage and each customer gets whether it could be clear information We are 100% dedicated on insurance during covered by insurance, working directthe process. “We to making sure our ly with the insurance are 100% dedicated customers are always company so you to making sure don’t have to. “And it satisfied and completely our customers are doesn’t matter what understand the insurance always satisfied and company you use — completely underclaim process. we work with them stand the insurance all,” says Murphy, roofing salesman. claim process,” Murphy says.

No matter the issue, every roof projBecause at the end of the day, Murect gets the same treatment at Heartphy says, customer satisfaction is key. land Homes. “Free estimates, no-obli“We are here for you!”

Why do a whole home remodel instead of buying a new home?

One benefit of remodeling, instead of building a new home, is that with the proper renovation, you can significantly increase the selling value of your home. This is important when it's finally time to sell. Even less expensive remodel projects can boost home values.

Dave Parsons

Remodel Salesman

W

our goal is creating a quality and affordhen looking into a whole reable product that leaves you speechless,” model, Dave Parsons, remodel Parsons says. salesman at Heartland Homes His passion for remodeling came from Remodeling & Roofing, says it’s essential watching his father make to find a trusted resource We bring a dream remodel a realto help you tackle the for customers. Now, project because “you are experience, quality ity Parsons gets to make that dealing with your most and customer reality true for his own valuable asset, and lack “I saw how he of experience from a service to help you customers. created new spaces and remodeler can cost you time, money, and damage envision and design the joy it gave to the cuswhen it was done. to your home if not done your dream home tomer Now I get to help people properly.” or space! build their dream space!”

At the end of the day And that next dream to at Heartland Homes, it’s become a reality could be yours. “We bring crucial for the customer to feel happy and experience, quality and customer service at peace in their home. This starts with to help you envision and design your “listening to you, the homeowners. From initial inspection to the final walk-through, dream home or space!”

HEARTLAND HOMES

REMODELING & ROOFING 573-529-2016 Heartlandhomesmo.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 79

How can I make my smile beautiful again while staying relaxed during treatment?

Professionals are here to help people receive beautiful dentistry despite their fear of entering the dental office. Some patients want to feel comfortable and barely remember being in a dental office. These patients receive moderate sedation. It is accomplished with pills taken orally, no IV. You bring a driver, complete your dental treatment and leave ecstatic that everything is beautiful with the world and your smile is gorgeous.

Dr. Kent Willett

D WILLETT DENTAL ASSOCIATES

573-445-5300 WillettDentalAssociates.com

80 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

r. Kent Willett, cosmetic dentist at says. “So, I pursued a different dental experiWillett Dental Associates, says he ence. An experience that even I would sit and his team work to help people down for, then I knew I could care for my gain confidence through patients properly and their smile without causing comfortably who experiWe understand fear. “We have been providenced fear and anxiety.” ing sedation solutions for At Willett Dental Asyour past 40 years to help people get sociates, patients can pain and are that same sense of great rest easy knowing that self-esteem,” Dr. Willett they will be cared for and determined to says. “We just simply promade to feel comfortable. provide the best “We will listen. We want vide people with the treatment they desire, and they care and sedation to hear your stories about are totally relaxed during your fear. We understand for your situation. your past pain and are detheir whole appointment time with us.” termined to provide the After experiencing his own trauma at the best care and sedation for your situation,” dentist, Dr. Willett decided people needed Dr. Willett says. “You will leave happy. That is a positive experience when getting dental most important.” work. “Those memories still haunt me,” he

Can a cataract come back after I've had it removed?

The simple answer is no. A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens that is inside the eye. This process is not dangerous, but it can affect the quality of vision. A cataract is treated by removing the natural intraocular lens and replacing it with a new lens implant. While it is common to have some mild haze form behind the new lens (which is easily treated), the original cataract will never reappear.

Adam Clarke, M.D.

A

utilized and because of the great outdam Clarke, ophthalmologist comes we are able to achieve,” Clarke at Restoration Eye Care, says says. “I loved the idea of being able while there are great resources to address medical online, it’s important issues by physically to find a professional I loved the idea fixing whatever the to diagnose and of being able to problem was.” examine your eyes.

At Restoration Eye “Many conditions can address medical Care, you won’t find only be diagnosed issues by physically a one-size-fits-all by examination, so it solution. Clarke says is important to see a fixing whatever patients will receive trusted eye care prothe problem was. eye care tailored to fessional if there are them, using a “wide any changes or issues range of visionwith your vision.” enhancing techniques, from LASIK to His passion for eye care came in medical school, as he was drawn to cataract surgery and lens replacement “the delicate nature of the eye surin order to meet your specific needs.” gery, the advanced technology that is

RESTORATION EYE CARE

573-441-7070 restorationeyecare.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 81

What is paintless dent repair?

Paintless dent repair, or PDR, is a relatively new form of automotive dent repair. The PDR process requires no sanding, filling or repainting. Instead, certified technicians use specialized knowledge, training, tools and techniques to restore dents and dings back to factory condition. When done properly, PDR is both safe and effective without weakening steel or aluminum panels or making them susceptible to rust or corrosion.

Wally Inskeep

W

COLUMBIA DENT COMPANY

columbiadentcompany.com 82 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

ith more than 20 years as a colColumbia Dent Company’s new bricklision technician, Wally Inskeep and-mortar location is the perfect one-stop knows how to expertly tackle any shop for your automotive repair needs. dent. The advancement of paintless dent Whether dealing with hail damage, a small repair only deepened ding on your door or more Our mission is to Inskeep’s commitment extensive damage, Inskeep to the field as he saw its provide our clients has the experience and impressive capabilities. “To passion to fix your posseswith the best say that I was blown away sions. by what I saw would be an Columbia Dent Company paintless dent repair understatement,” he says. not only uses the latest in mid-Missouri, This revolutionary repair in specialized dent repair, took the original form but has a fast turnaround coupled with the best at lower costs, ultimately of repairing dents with sanding, primer, masking customer experience. providing higher resale and reapplication of paint, values for customers. “Our and simplified the process, mission is to provide our making it easier and more environmentally clients with the best paintless dent repair friendly. “It does not involve any paint, in mid-Missouri, coupled with the best waste from sanding or as many chemicals customer experience,” Inskeep says. and energy,” he says.

Is egg freezing a good idea for me?

Egg freezing is an excellent option for women who would like to preserve their fertility options for the future. The most common situation involves a single professional woman who has not yet met "Mr. Right" and hears the proverbial clock ticking. Another is seen in women with a new diagnosis of cancer who have not yet had children. No matter the reason, seeking an expert to help you start your fertility journey is essential.

Gil Wilshire, MD, FACOG

E

Dr. Gil Wilshire, the physician at Missouri gg freezing can be a game Fertility, says, "We like to treat everyone changer for women, as it allows like family, and we'll go to the ends of them to take charge of their the earth to optimize fertility potential and a patient's chance decide when to have We go to the of success!" Making children! The number of eggs decrease in both ends of the earth sure his patients find success is a passion quantity and quality to optimize for Wilshire, who says over time, increasing the risk of infertility your chances of patient satisfaction means the world to as a woman ages. Egg success! him and his team. "If freezing allows women you don't succeed, we the opportunity to "stop don't succeed, so a successful outcome the biological clock" and preserve her is our goal." With egg freezing, that goal eggs at the age they're frozen for future is allowing you to freeze eggs today for use. Seeing a fertility doctor to assist use tomorrow, so you can control your in your fertility preservation is critical if fertility as you age. you'd like to plan ahead and time your pregnancy in the future.

MISSOURI FERTILITY 573-443-4511 www.MissouriFertility.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 83

What does it mean when an insurance company acts in bad faith?

Recently, we've seen "bad faith" used as a buzzword in personal injury advertising. It's a term misunderstood by most consumers and attorneys. When you're threatened with a lawsuit, your automobile, commercial or professional liability insurer has a duty to defend and reasonably settle the claim, thereby protecting your personal assets.

When your insurer acts in its own financial interest and refuses to do that, they are acting in "bad faith" and putting you at risk for financial ruin.

John Shikles Partner

W

CARSON & COIL, P.C. 573-636-2177 515 E. High St., Jefferson City Carsoncoil.com

84 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

hen looking for answers on how Shikles, a Columbia native, says he was into handle a personal injury or spired to go into the service industry by his insurance issue, John Shikles says parents, who made their livings in service it’s important to talk directly with a licensed to others. “I discovered personal injury law attorney who can apply allows me to directly serve We are recognized up-to-date and relevant good people facing their legal innovators in legal principles to your biggest life struggles,” he situation. Shikles, partner says. personal injury and at Carson & Coil, says Carson & Coil’s practice insurance law, with the most of the easily acceswas built over decades humility to prioritize sible information about of representing everyone our clients' physical personal injury and insurfrom insurance companies ance comes from legal to medical professionals in and financial wellor insurance marketing a variety of issues. Shikles being in every case. professionals who have says the firm’s attorneys only one purpose: getting you “in the door.” are not only the most talented in the field, “At Carson & Coil, we are selective in the but kind and caring people. “We are recogclients and cases we take on,” Shikles says. nized legal innovators in personal injury and “We will give you a genuine analysis and insurance law, with the humility to prioritize only ask you to hire us if we believe we can our clients' physical and financial well-being achieve the outcome you deserve.” in every case,” he says.

Is there a right way to invest in real estate?

Many paths will lead to property investment.

The important part is finding the right one for you. To do that, you can ask yourself key questions: Do you have money saved up? What type of property will work best for you? How big is your network? Finding an expert who can identify your resources and needs, then fill the holes with connections within their network to pave the way to your success is essential.

Shawna Neuner Realtor

F

inding the right way to invest one of my colleagues actively strives in real estate involves a careful to stay current and foremost in our reblend of research, strategy and spective fields in order to best support patience. Still, ensurclients through a ing you get your inforvery complex jourWe are not out to mation from a trusted ney," Neuner says. just sign on the source is necessary.

Working with Shawna Neuner, Boulevard Realty will bottom line, we Realtor with Boulevard allow you to achieve want to help you Realty, says finding the your real estate facts within the fiction achieve success and goals and enjoy the is essential. "Check and journey along the we're going to have way. "We're fun," double-check your sources!"

Neuner says. "We are some fun doing it.

Working with a seanot out to just sign soned real estate agent or investment on the bottom line, we want to help advisor can provide valuable insights you achieve success, and we're going into investing while supporting custo have some fun doing it." tomers along the way. "Each and every

R E A LT Y BOULEVARD REALTY 573-555-1212 blvdmo.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 85

What is post-acute care or rehab care?

Post-acute care facilities, also called rehab facilities, provide services that enable patients to regain their strength and return home. Patients receive these services after hospitalization for surgery, injury or illness.

Post-acute care is chosen upon discharge and leads to a lower likelihood of being re-admitted to the hospital thanks to set short-term rehabilitation goals. Some of the services provided at a post-acute care facility include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and skilled nursing care.

Tori Moore

Executive Director

W THE BLUFFS

573-442-6060 thebluffscolumbia.org

86 INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

hen choosing a therapy team what this is all about.” There is a 24for your post-acute or rehab hour dedicated team to help patients care it’s essential to find one achieve the highest functionality and with years of experience and knowlreduce the chances of going to a hospiedge. The Bluffs has a tal. Whether it’s rehabilidedicated post-acute Seeing the people tation, therapy or skilled care unit team to procare, The Bluffs we serve with warm nursing vide exactly that to the is committed to helpsmiles, feeling rehabilitation residents. ing patients on their better, and on their journey toward optimal Tori Moore, executive health and well-being. director for The Bluffs, way to achieving says caring for seniors their goals is what “Our excellent outcomes and low hospital readand assisting in their this is all about. missions rates make us healing process is extremely rewarding. “Making a real dif- a ‘preferred post-acute provider’ for the ference by improving a person’s quality University Hospital,” Moore says. The Bluffs ensures that individuals receive of life is the most fulfilling part,” Moore the personalized care and support they says. “Seeing the people we serve with need to recover and regain their quality warm smiles, feeling better, and on of life. their way to achieving their goals is

Along with medications and psychotherapy, what other treatments can be used for depression?

At Burrell Behavioral Health, we offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which is a non-invasive outpatient treatment used for depression. TMS can often help if a client’s depressive symptoms have not been controlled by either medication alone or medication and psychotherapy. TMS treatment typically lasts 30 minutes. During the treatment, a cushioned coil placed precisely against the client's head emits therapeutic magnetic pulses. The strength of the magnetic field produced is similar to that of an MRI. The treatment typically takes 36 sessions spaced out over six to nine weeks.

Dr. Deepti Bahl Psychiatrist

W

Patients are awake during the treatment, hen it comes to treatment resisshe says, with no sedation or anesthesia tant depression, the use of TMS needed, which makes it easy for people to has seen positive results, with quickly get back to their daily lives. “You can more than 80% of patients reporting an resume your daily activities improvement in depresafter the treatment,” Bahl sive symptoms, says Dr. The symptom relief says. “You can drive after Deepti Bahl, psychiatrist from the depression your appointment. You can with Burrell Behavioral is cumulative and continue your daily routine.”

Health.

With millions of TMS Bahl, who did her continues to happen treatments performed, residency and fellowship even after the at the University of Mistreatment course has Bahl says zero systemic side effects have been reported. souri School of Medicine, been finished.

The most common side says that the treatment, effect reported is temporary combined with regular psychotherapy and medication, can provide scalp discomfort or pain, she says. “Talk to your psychiatrist if you would be a good symptom relief for many. “The symptom relief from the depression is cumulative and candidate for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation,” Bahl says, noting that the treatment is continues to happen even after the treatcovered by most insurance. ment course has been finished,” Bahl says.

BURRELL BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 573-777-8300 3401 Berrywood Drive Burrellcenter.com/tms

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 87

The power of personal attention working for you When you work with Edward Jones, our entire team will help you work toward your financial goals. We’ll learn which special moments you want to create in your life — and then we’ll design a tailored strategy to help you build the future you envision. Together.

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1729 W Broadway, Suite 3 Columbia, MO 65203 573-446-2770

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Financial focus

Open the (back) door to a Roth IRA There There aren’t aren’t many many drawbacks drawbacks to having to having a high a high to invest in ain Roth income income — but — but being being unable unable to invest a Roth might be one of them. there strategies IRAIRA might be one of them.

AreAre there strategies allow high-income earners to contribute thatthat allow high-income earners to contribute to to valuable retirement account? thisthis valuable retirement account?

Before we delve question, consider Before we delve intointo thatthat question, let’slet’s consider rules.

In 2023, contribute the the rules.

In 2023, youyou can can contribute the the full full amount a Roth — $6,500, or $7,500 amount to ato Roth IRAIRA — $6,500, or $7,500 if if gross income is less $138,000 (if you’re single) gross income is less thanthan $138,000 (if you’re single) If you more these amounts, amount If you earnearn more thanthan these amounts, the the amount contribute decreases it’s phased youyou can can contribute decreases untiluntil it’s phased out out completely if your income exceeds $153,000 completely if your income exceeds $153,000 A Roth A Roth IRAIRA is attractive is attractive because because its earnings its earnings andand withdrawals are are tax free, provided you’ve hadhad the the withdrawals tax free, provided you’ve

when when youyou ownown a Roth a Roth IRA,IRA, you’re you’re not not required required to to withdrawals it when as you taketake withdrawals fromfrom it when youyou turnturn 73, 73, as you would withwith a traditional IRA,IRA, so you’ll havehave more would a traditional so you’ll more youryour money money will will havehave the the chance chance to potentially to potentially growing. given income, keepkeep growing.

But But given youryour income, howhow cancan contribute a Roth? youyou contribute to ato Roth? want to consider what’s known YouYou maymay want to consider what’s known as aas a “backdoor Roth” strategy.

Essentially, involves “backdoor Roth” strategy.

Essentially, thisthis involves contributing money a new traditional contributing money to ato new traditional IRA,IRA, or or taking money an existing taking money fromfrom an existing one,one, andand thenthen converting funds a Roth while converting the the funds to ato Roth IRA.IRA. But But while thisthis backdoor strategy sounds simple, it involves some backdoor strategy sounds simple, it involves some serious considerations. serious considerations.

youryour traditional traditional IRAIRA is inispretax in pretax or after-tax or after-tax dollars. dollars.

When youyou contribute pretax dollars to ato traditional When contribute pretax dollars a traditional IRA,IRA, youryour contributions lower youryour annual taxable contributions lower annual taxable income.

However, if your income is high enough income.

However, if your income is high enough to disqualify youyou fromfrom contributing directly to ato a to disqualify contributing directly RothRoth IRA,IRA, youyou maymay alsoalso earnearn too too much to make much to make deductible (pretax) contributions to ato traditional deductible (pretax) contributions a traditional IRA.IRA. Consequently, youyou might havehave contributed Consequently, might contributed after-tax dollars to your traditional IRA,IRA, on top after-tax dollars to your traditional on top of the pretax onesones youyou maymay havehave put put in when of the pretax in when youryour income waswas lower.

(Earnings on after-tax income lower.

(Earnings on after-tax contributions will will be treated as pretax amounts.) contributions be treated as pretax amounts.)

In any case, if you convert pretax assets fromfrom In any case, if you convert pretax assets youryour traditional IRAIRA to ato Roth IRA,IRA, the the amount traditional a Roth amount converted will will be fully taxable in the yearyear of the converted be fully taxable in the of the conversion.

So, if you were to convert a large conversion.

So, if you were to convert a large amount of these assets, youyou could faceface a hefty amount of these assets, could a hefty tax tax bill.bill.

AndAnd since youyou probably don’t want to to since probably don’t want taketake funds fromfrom the converted IRAIRA itselfitself to pay for for funds the converted to pay the the taxes, you’d need another source of funding, taxes, you’d need another source of funding, possibly fromfrom youryour savings andand other investments. possibly savings other investments.

Ultimately, then, a backdoor RothRoth IRAIRA strategy Ultimately, then, a backdoor strategy maymay make the the most sense if you havehave fewfew or or make most sense if you no pretax assets in any traditional IRA,IRA, including no pretax assets in any traditional including a SEP-IRA andand a SIMPLE IRA.IRA. If you do have a a a SEP-IRA a SIMPLE If you do have sizable amount of pretax dollars in your IRA,IRA, andand sizable amount of pretax dollars in your you’d still still like like to convert it toitato Roth IRA,IRA, youyou could you’d to convert a Roth could consider spreading the the conversion overover a period consider spreading conversion a period of years, potentially diluting youryour tax tax burden. of years, potentially diluting burden.

Consult withwith youryour tax tax advisor when considering Consult advisor when considering a backdoor RothRoth strategy.

But But if it’sif appropriate for for a backdoor strategy. it’s appropriate strategy, strategy, so give so give it some it some thought. thought.

This This article article was was written written

by Edward

by Edward Jones Jones for use for by useyour by your locallocal Edward Edward Jones Jones Financial Financial Advisor.

Advisor.

Edward Edward Jones, Jones, Member Member SIPCSIPC

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COVERING COLUMBIA'S BUSINESS COMMUNITY

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CONTENTS Inside Columbia’s CEO • www.insidecolumbia.net

96.

UP & COMING Look who’s moving up in businesses around Boone County.

98.

INSPIRING GROWTH One former Tiger has built a business helping teams across a variety of industries succeed. Read about Alex Demczak’s journey from the football field to the board room.

102.

FUTURE PARTNERSHIPS A new position at the Columbia Area Career Center is focusing on fostering partnerships with local businesses to ramp up the opportunities for their highly skilled students.

102

106. PAY IT FORWARD A local startup is making waves in the health care sector with its new approach to health benefits.

110. CEO ROUNDTABLE Local business and civic leaders discuss Columbia’s approach to affordable housing.

110

ON THE COVER: Alex Demczak has gone from MU Tiger to motivational speaker and author.

WINTER 2023 I INSIDE COLUMBIA’S CEO I 93

STAFF Chief Executive Officer Carla Leible carla@zrgmail.com Publisher Emeritus Fred Parry fred@mailzimmer.com Publisher Melody Parry Associate Editors Madeleine Leroux mleroux@mailzimmer.com Zola Heck zcrowder@mailzimmer.com Contributing Writers Jack Wax, Pamela Dimmick Photo Editor L.G. Patterson lg@mailzimmer.com Art Director Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimmer.com Graphic Designer Madelyn Jones mjones@mailzimmer.com Advertising Coordinators Kalie Kramel kkramel@mailzimmer.com Bre Smith bsmith@mailzimmer.com Marketing Representatives

Josh Arnold jarnold@mailzimmer.com Karolina Arbova karbova@mailzimmer.com Tyler Morrison tmorrison@mailzimmer.com Inside Columbia’s CEO magazine Zimmer Strategic Communications 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200 Columbia, MO 65201 573-875-1099 • www.insidecolumbia.net

Inside Columbia’s CEO is published biannually by Zimmer Strategic Communicatios LLC, 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, MO 65201, 573-875-1099. Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2023. All rights reserved.

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UP & COM I N G

OPENING BELL

THE LADDER REPORT Look Who’s Moving Up In Business SANDRA HAMAR was announced as COLUMBIA COLLEGE’s new provost and vice president for academic affairs after serving as the dean of the School of Public Service. Hamar joined Columbia College in 2017 as an associate professor of education and has served as chair of the Education Department and as interim dean of the former School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences and the Robert W. Plaster School of Business.

SHELTER INSURANCE announced that ROCKNE CORBIN will assume the role of president and CEO next year as current President and CEO Randa Rawlins plans to retire effective April 30, 2024. Corbin, a 32-year employee of Shelter, was elected to the position by the board of directors. He most recently served as executive vice president, leading the companies’ operations in claims, actuarial, underwriting, reinsurance and alternate channels.

CHRIS J. HARRIS has joined CENTRAL TRUST COMPANY as its assistant vice president and wealth management advisor in Columbia.

Harris is a certified public accountant who earned his juris doctorate from the University of Missouri School of Law and has a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance and banking from MU.

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COIL CONSTRUCTION has named MEGAN STEVENS as its new chief financial officer, overseeing accounting functions and financial relations, as well as financial reporting related to both construction and development ventures. Stevens, who has a master’s in accountancy from MU, previously worked at Williams-Keepers and at Fairway Management. Outside of Coil, she serves as treasurer for Meals on Wheels and is a former board member and treasurer for True North.

JENNIFER HORTON was announced as WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY’s new director of marketing, where she will be responsible for the university’s marketing, advertising and promotional efforts, as well as other public relations initiatives with an emphasis on admissions marketing. Horton most recently served as director of strategic communications at MU’s College of Arts and Sciences and previously served as a strategic communication associate and senior communication specialist for MU Health Care.

COLUMBIA INSURANCE GROUP has named TODD RUTHRUFF as president and CEO-elect. Ruthruff will succeed Gary Thompson on Jan. 1, 2024, as the seventh CEO in the company’s 134-year history. Ruthruff previously served for more than 30 years at Amerisure. Thompson will serve as CEO emeritus and senior executive advisor until March 1, 2024, when he will retire after 41 years of service in the insurance industry.

CENTRAL BANK OF BOONE COUNTY has elected JENNIFER HEDRICK to its board of directors. Hedrick is president of SOA Architecture and an active community member, working with REDI, the Heart of Missouri United Way, the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Network and The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri. KYLE NIELSEN has been promoted to branch manager of the bank’s Smiley Lane location, where he oversees day-to-day operations. Nielsen joined Central Bank in 2018 as a financial associate before becoming an assistant branch manager.

Outside of work, he is a Daniel Boone Little League coach and volunteer with The Food Bank of Central & Northeast Missouri.

COLUMBIA COLLEGE appointed four new members to serve on the board of trustees. The new members are BILL SEIBERT, class of 2009 and a retired assistant superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol; GREG JOHNSTON, class of 1991 and president of Johnston & Associates; JAKE BLACK, class of 2005 and president and chief executive officer of CFM Insurance and Innovated Holdings; and MARY BECK, retired chief nursing officer at MU Health Care. Each of the new board members will serve four-year terms through 2027.

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Gina N Mauller-Crane, CFP®, Financial Advisor 11 South Fairview Road, Suite 109 Columbia, MO 65203 573.445.7671 | EdwardJones.com | bd • • • • • • • •

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Don’t Leave Your IRA to the IRS

If you’ve invested in an IRA for many

IRAs, the IRS waived penalties for individuals

decades, it may well turn into a key source of

who failed to take RMDs in 2021 and 2022 and

income for your retirement. Still, you might not

extended the RMD penalty waiver for 2023.

deplete your IRA in your lifetime, especially

Although these rulings give beneficiaries

if you also have a pension or a 401(k) and

— those not eligible for the exemptions listed

other investment income. So, if your IRA still

above — more time to plan, they will eventually

has sizable assets after your passing, it would

need to start taking RMDs, which could affect

likely end up in your estate plan. If you leave

their tax situations. To help protect your heirs,

your IRA to grown children or other family

consider these suggestions:

members, could they be hit with a big tax bill?

• Using permanent life insurance. A

Here’s a little background: Up until the Secure

properly structured permanent life insurance

Act of 2019, those who inherited traditional

policy could help you replace the assets your

IRAs could extend their required withdrawals

family might lose to the taxes resulting from

over their lifetimes, which stretched out the

an inherited IRA. You might even consider

annual taxes due on these withdrawals. But

naming a charity as the beneficiary of an IRA,

the Secure Act changed the provisions for non-

rather than your family members. The charity

spouse beneficiaries who inherited an IRA after

would receive the IRA proceeds tax free, and

2019, meaning that beneficiaries of inherited

the life insurance could then provide tax-free

IRAs had only 10 years (beginning the year

benefits to your heirs.

after death) to withdraw the entire balance. For

• Leaving taxable investment accounts to

some beneficiaries, this could potentially create

your heirs. Apart from your tax-deferred IRA,

a tax burden. (Inheritors of Roth IRAs are also

you may own other, fully taxable accounts

required to follow the 10-year distribution rule

containing investments such as stocks or bonds.

but are not subject to income taxes on account

Typically, these investments receive what’s

earnings if the Roth IRA’s five-year holding

known as a “step-up” in their cost basis once

period has been met).

they are inherited. This means your heirs will

However, not all beneficiaries were affected

essentially inherit all the gains your investments

by the new rules. Spouses can stretch their

earned by the time of your passing — but they

inherited IRA distributions over their lifetimes

won’t be taxed on these gains if they sell the

and exceptions exist for certain non-spouse

assets immediately. This type of sale could help

beneficiaries. Minor children of the IRA owner

offset the taxes your heirs will incur from the

(until the age of majority), chronically ill or

inherited IRA.

disabled individuals, and beneficiaries who are

The tax and investment issues surrounding

no more than 10 years younger than the IRA

inherited IRAs can be complex, so consult with

owner may opt to stretch their distributions.

your tax and financial advisors before making

The new 10-year requirement applies to IRAs inherited on or after Jan. 1, 2020. But due to confusion over

any moves. And, as with many areas relating to inheritances, the sooner you start planning, the better.

changes to required minimum distribution

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by

(RMD) rules for some beneficiaries of inherited

your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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LEADING WITH INTEGRITY

Former Mizzou Quarterback Cheers Others On

BY JACK WAX | PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

After his final game as a University of Missouri quarterback, Alex Demczak started the exciting part of his life.

Leaving behind the roaring crowds, the game he loved and the thrill of being on an SEC-winning team, he girded himself for greater challenges ahead of him.

Today, at age 31, the 6-footer with an athletic frame and thoughtful demeanor is in demand as a keynote speaker, addressing groups nationwide, as well as here in mid-Missouri. Typically, he’ll speak to about 50 groups a year, ranging from high school assemblies to professional sports teams, from sales groups to corporate organizations and civic groups.

Among the major corporations and organizations that have heard his presentations are the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, Bridgestone, Cincinnati Reds, Cintas and Edward Jones.

Addressing a broad range of industries and organizations, Demczak gears his speeches to different audiences’ needs and interests. In one presentation he may focus on ethics. In another, leadership development or sales training. And he helps other groups become better communicators. But whatever

group he addresses, he aims to inspire his audience to grow personally as well as professionally.

Recently, he squeezed in an interview at a local coffee shop as he was preparing for three presentations later that week. Staying closer to his home in Columbia, he was scheduled to address a Future Leaders Association in Warrensburg; a Young Professionals organization in Jefferson City; then onto Wichita, Kansas, for a chamber of commerce event.

Between the travels and talks, he’ll line up a guest or two for his Alex Demczak Leadership Podcast.

When asked why he thinks businesses are so interested in hearing what he has to say, he replies, “My message is all about building trust — we’re coming out of these last few years where people were working remote, and they need to rebuild that trust. People are looking for ways to engage and connect in more meaningful ways at work. It starts with integrity, whether you’re the leader of the team or a teammate. This means being a person who others can see not only talking the talk but walking the walk.”

Demczak defies the stereotype of the

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ex-football player turned motivational speaker and author. He is definitely not a “don’t let anything or anybody get in the way of your success” sort of guy. The values he promotes are simple, yet powerful: Live with integrity, lead with integrity.

Instead of promoting aggressive, self-centered behavior, he promotes values that can lead to a better life. He co-authored a book, The Sale: The Number One Strategy to Build Trust and Create Success, with renowned author and speaker Jon Gordon that has earned praise from such notables as Dave Ramsey, Michael Porter Jr. and Paul Goldschmidt. An endorsement from

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nds on the day whether we are

Dave Ramsey reads, “The Sale reminds us that doing business and living life with integrity is not just the right way, it’s the only way. Well done!”

It's a book that companies frequently provide to the groups that he addresses.

Carla Leible, general manager for Zimmer Communications, “loved the book,” and made it a book-of-the-month selection for Zimmer’s employees, after inviting Demczak to speak to her team. “One of our core values is continual improvement,” she says. “Alex is a perfect fit for our values, and his presentation was inspirational.”

Author and speaker are just two of the roles Demczak has carved out for himself. Recently he founded a company called Speaker School that helps individuals become keynote speakers and clarify their message. Companies can also bring in Speaker School to coach team members on effective communication strategies through engaging keynotes and workshops. In addition to that work, he is CEO and co-founder of Streamline Books, a book publishing company he cofounded with Will Severns. The two met at as counselors at a sports camp back in 2014 and share a common goal of helping others to write and reach audiences with inspiring messages. The company works with would-be authors, providing a wide range of services that could include help writing, editing and publishing, as well as speakers’ training.

Between workshops, keynoting and overseeing Streamline, Demczak makes sure to spend time at home with his wife, Erin, and two kids. If there’s any downtime, Demczak uses it to plan for the future, one that will include seven more books he’d like to write.

In the meantime, he finds talking to various groups rewarding, especially groups of business leaders and sales teams. “What I love about talking about the book is that it isn’t just about sales. Its message is deeper than that, and it applies to any team that continually wants to push past barriers and grow,” he says.

That message was exactly what the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals were looking for this fall. “He told us about his trials and tribulations during his years as a Tiger quarterback and volunteer coach. Our group’s theme was the ‘Challenge of Change,’ and his presentation showed how we can grow and become better,” says Allison Owen, professional development co-chair of Jefferson City’s Young Professionals group.

Owen says the group especially warmed to his message because they could relate to someone their own age.

For Demczak, success isn’t defined by how much is in his savings account or his standing among his peers. “Leadership requires no title,” he says. As a freshman walk-on at Mizzou, he was grateful that Coach Gary Pinkel gave him a space on the team. “My time at Mizzou taught me that in order to be excellent at what you do, you must show up day after day, and it doesn’t matter where you are in the depth chart. I think there’s a stewardship responsibility that comes with the gifts and blessing you’ve been given.”

Demczak learned a lot more at Mizzou than how to throw a football. Although he loved being on the team, it was the character-building discipline that helped prepare him for a successful career as an entrepreneur. “I learned a lot of things about discipline, about executing a plan and doing the right thing,” he says.

Some of his lessons came from Pinkel.

“I remember Coach Pinkel would have these Pinkelism quotes, such as ‘If it is to be, it’s up to me.’ And he insisted that you were on time to all team meetings and that you paid attention — cellphones weren’t allowed."

Kim Bishop, who was assistant athletic director for student development during Demczak’s years at MU, remembers him as an impressive young athlete who had all the ingredients for a successful and impactful career. “In a way, he was wise beyond his years,” says Bishop, currently the dean of student services at Southwestern Community College in Iowa. “Working with 18–23-year-olds, you see a lot of growth and development during their time, especially with student

The Sale reminds us that doing business and living life with integrity is not just the right way, it’s the only way. Well done!

Dave Ramsey athletes. Alex was one that no matter what he was going through with football, he always stayed true to his core values.”

And it was at an athletic department meeting that he first encountered Jon Gordon, who had been brought in to give a motivational speech. “I saw him speak and I said, ‘I want to do the work you do and make an impact on others.’

I also asked if there was any way he would mentor me.” Gordon agreed but wanted to test him first to see if he was really motivated to do this work. The test consisted of serving for free on his leadership team before eventually getting paid like the rest of the team. Demczak jumped at the chance to be mentored by one of the top 10 speakers in the country.

And eight years later, Gordon co-wrote The Sale with his protégé.

After graduating Mizzou, Demczak started two careers — one at Veterans United, where he enjoyed working in sales, and his speaking career, which he started on weekends and during evenings. “I loved my time at VU,” he says.

“It’s an amazing company with awesome leadership.” But after four years, he felt that he could have a greater impact on others as a full-time, not part-time, speaker. It wasn’t an easy decision to make, considering that Erin was at home,

caring for their newborn child, and he would be giving up his regular paycheck for an unknown future. Demczak first checked with 12 of his friends, relatives and mentors, getting their perspective on whether he should give full-time speaking a try. Without exception, each told him that he should go for it.

Demczak recalls the exact day that he gave his first paid speech. “On Aug. 5, 2018, Sam Ferguson, athletic director of McMurry University in Texas gave me my first opportunity.” Demczak went on to speak five more times at McMurry. “I love the performance of about how I can serve this audience. What drives me is thinking that if there’s one person in the audience who needs this encouragement, who needs to hear this message, then it’s worth being there.”

Teaching others how to be effective speakers, Demczak relies on a framework he learned from his mentor Jon Gordon.

“Every good communicator is able to do three things — convey a principle, a story and how to apply that principle,” Demczak says. The framework is as simple as the story he tells in The Sale, and if judged by Demczak’s success at applying that framework, it’s one that gets results for businesses and organizations across the country.

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BRIDGING THE GAP New CPS Position to Foster Better Collaboration Between Businesses and Students

BY MADELEINE LEROUX | PHOTOS BY AVA KITZI

T

he Columbia Area Career Center has always sought to better prepare and train students for the careers available to them after graduation. And with the creation of a new position this year, that mission is being taken one step further.

Stacy Elsbury is the new business and industry engagement coordinator at the career center. Her role is to help bridge the gap between the center itself and local businesses, better connecting both students and teachers with industry leaders. “It's actually the top goal for the career center, to have business and industry engagement because we connect what they're learning in the classroom to the business world,” Elsbury says. “It just elevates the rigor; it elevates the relevancy. Everything just goes up when that happens.”

Elsbury says the position she now occupies actually has been requested for about three years, and she considers herself lucky to have been selected for it. She credits her variety of experience,

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from sales to management to entrepreneurial business, before she transitioned to the classroom, giving her the blend of business know-how and educational background that was needed. “All of that combined is what was really helpful,” Elsbury says.

The idea is that by getting more businesses involved in the career center, both students and teachers will have a better understanding of the current and future needs in a variety of industries, allowing training to then be tailored to those needs. “The goal is to just have more industry engagement,” she says.

“We want our students engaging on work sites with business industry leaders to get more relevant information. We want businesses to have the chance to partner with us in developing the talent pipeline that's eventually going to be coming into their businesses.”

Elsbury is now focused on building and fostering relationships with area business leaders, searching for willing partners in

Stacy Elsbury

Business and industry engagement coordinator at the Columbia Area Career Center her new quest for the career center. And there are a variety of ways those partnerships can happen. First, Elsbury says they would have a conversation about what the business is interested in and what would work best for them.

“It's actually the top goal for the career center, to have business and industry engagement because we connect what they're learning in the classroom to the business world.”

Stacy Elsbury

Business and industry engagement coordinator at the Columbia Area Career Center

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It could be an industry tour, which connects teachers to professionals in their industry to ensure that students are being taught the latest methods and needs. Or it could be a pop-in day, where students connect with professionals in their field of interest by going to the business and engaging in a hands-on activity. Then, the participating professionals are brought to the career center, where students get to take the lead and show them around.

“Businesses are proud, rightfully so, of their companies and what they do,” Elsbury says. “We want students to be proud of where they’re spending their day.”

Elsbury says the career center tries to do two industry tours and two pop-in days each year.

Other opportunities for businesses include pre-recorded interviews from industry leaders, guest speakers and chances to serve on advisory committees.

Plus, field trips, job shadows, intern and externships, as well as any project-based learning opportunities.

All of these methods are geared to accomplishing that core goal of getting students ready for the workplace, as Elsbury says that’s what businesses report as the No. 1 struggle right now. “(Employers) want workplace readiness,” she says. “Well, kids need to be on the work site to get workplace ready.

That’s where you really grow those skills and start to see that what teachers have been saying actually is true.”

While the career center educates students in a wide variety of industries, and Elsbury says they are looking for opportunities within each and every industry, she notes that engineering, information technology, digital media, emergency services, agriculture and auto are some of her primary focuses at the moment.

To learn more about the opportunities available at the Columbia Area Career Center, contact Elsbury at selsbury@cpsk12.org or 573-214-3800 ext. 29424.

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Paytient founder Brian Whorley developed the concept for Health Payment Accounts after a decade in hospital finance.

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A NEW APPROACH TO HEALTH BENEFITS Columbia-Based Startup Takes the Sting Out of High Deductibles

BY PAMELA DIMMICK | PHOTOS BY SCOTT SCHAEFER

L

ike most employers, Angy Littrell was faced with a difficult choice.

Littrell, CEO of Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall, Missouri, wanted to offer a robust benefits package that would help attract and retain highly qualified employees, but any new offerings had to be fiscally smart for the business.

“Recruitment and retention are challenges across the country in all organizations, but especially in health care,” Littrell says. “Our organization is always looking for value-added benefits for our employees and ones that are affordable for the organization.”

As both the leader of a medical facility and an employer trying to address the health care needs of her staff, Littrell fully understands the pain points. She found the win-win solution she was looking for with an innovative benefit called a Health Payment Account (HPA).

America’s health care system and the employers who help their employees access it are feeling the stress of

inflation coupled with the residual financial fallout from the COVID pandemic. According to a recent Mercer poll, health benefit costs are expected to increase 6.5% for U.S. employers in 2023, to more than $13,800 per em-

and employers should expect accelerated increases in 2024.

As a result, employers are bracing themselves for the steep cost increases expected to hit the health care industry in the next 24 months and

HPAs improve employee retention and recruitment. According to Pew Research Center, 43% of people who quit their jobs in 2021, did so because of poor benefits. HPAs are a low-cost retention tool that provide immediate financial relief to employees and mitigate the temptation to switch jobs to get better benefits.

HPAs can be used for diverse care needs. In 2022, Paytient cards were used for a wide range of conditions and specialties, including women’s health, chiropractic, family health, urgent care, orthopedics, mental health, radiology, pediatrics, labs, physical therapy, cardiac, respiratory and more.

HPAs advance health equity. Employees on the lower end of the pay scale often have a more difficult time participating in high-deductible health plans and getting the care they need. Employer-sponsored HPAs take the sting out of meeting a deductible and offer employees peace of mind. ployee. This projected increase is more than twice last year’s 3% increase —

looking for ways to reduce the burden on their employees. Several options are

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PAYTIENT’S VISA CARDS can be used to pay for the categories of health care most people would expect, but there’s one category they may find surprising: veterinary care.

“We were programming Paytient back in the day,” CEO Brian Whorley says.

“My sister has a basset hound named Baxter, and he’s definitely a part of their family, but unfortunately, he had a serious eye issue. She asked, ‘Could Paytient someday work for vet care?’ I was like, ‘We could do that today!’ and it’s been such a crowd pleaser. In 2022, 7% of our employee transactions were vet-related.”

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available: moving employees to a high-deductible health plan, instituting health savings accounts and providing individualized guidance to employees to help them select the most sensible health care plan for their situation.

The innovative Health Payment Account option, developed by Columbia-based Paytient, is proving popular with both employers and employees because it addresses the unique needs of both.

An HPA helps workers pay outof-pocket expenses over time, which makes the transition from a low- to high-deductible plan more practical and less painful. Employees can easily access funding — what Paytient calls “an allowance” — but are never burdened with fees or interest. In fact, there’s not even a credit check.

HPAs differ from traditional Health Saving Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) in that they are employer-sponsored benefits that provide short-term funding for employees to pay for unexpected or out-of-pocket medical expenses.

HPAs are the brainchild of Paytient’s founder Brian Whorley, who developed the concept after a decade of working in hospital finance.

He had seen firsthand how medical bills overwhelmed individuals and families who struggled to afford care. He recognized an opportunity to help by creating an employersponsored plan that allows employ-

ees to cover out-of-pocket health care expenses without incurring hefty fees and interest.

Through Paytient’s HPAs, employers offer employees a small line of credit, typically $500 to $5,000, accessible via Visa cards that can be used to pay everything from out-ofpocket medical, pharmacy, dental and vision expenses — even veterinary expenses for their pets.

“HPAs complement health plans, remove financial barriers to care and enhance existing health care financing tools, including insurance plans, gap products, indemnity products and HSAs/FSAs,” Whorley says.

Tom Kayser, a benefits consultant with Sundvold Financial, recalls a time when he was the bearer of bad news to his client’s 120 employees, telling them their annual deductible would double in the coming year.

“I could sense the frustration and anger from the employees,” Kayser says. “The next presenter was Brian Whorley of Paytient. He informed the employees that Paytient would give them an interest-free way to cover the difference in their outof-pocket costs. To my surprise, he received a standing ovation from the employees at the conclusion of his presentation.”

An HPA is used primarily as a form of short-term liquidity, not as a source of long-term debt. Employees use their HPA Visa card to pay for out-of-pocket care costs, then set up personalized, interest-free repayment plans that extend over time, usually between 12 and 36 months.

Employers set the limit for the cards they offer to line up with deductible exposure.

Companies that have added Paytient to their employee benefit offerings find it remarkably easy to set up. And although employees are expected to pay back this interestfree debt, Paytient does add a layer of protection for employers; they are never held responsible for employees’ unpaid balances.

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Kip Kendrick, Jason Gruender, Alex Demczak, Randy Cole

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Finding Shelter Local Leaders Discuss Ways to Address Affordable Housing and Homelessness

By Madeleine Leroux Photos by L.G. Patterson

Finding affordable housing in midMissouri can be a real challenge. But it’s not an issue that’s unique to the Columbia area.

Across the country, communities of all different sizes are grappling with a shortage of affordable housing. And when that is lacking, it ripples out and affects other issues, including homelessness, workforce attraction and retention, and crime rates.

To discuss these issues and how they affect Columbia and Boone County, Inside Columbia Publisher Emeritus Fred Parry hosted a CEO Roundtable luncheon with eight local civic and business leaders from a variety of industries. The event was sponsored

by The Broadway Hotel with the hotel’s award-winning Chef Jeff Guinn catering the meal that accompanied the conversation.

A Severe Issue One of the largest issues facing Columbia right now is the lack of affordable housing. While the definition of affordable housing can fluctuate, Randy Cole, chief executive officer of the Columbia Housing Authority, says

gross income on total housing, which includes rent or mortgage payments and utilities.

But in Boone County, the average sale price of a home is roughly $350,000 and Cole says a household would need to make about $130,000 per year or

Affordable housing is a severe issue in Boone County.

Jessica Kempf

Sales Manager, Weichert Realtors-First Tier the federal government defines it as when a household is spending no more than 30% of their adjusted monthly

more in order to afford that price tag.

“It’s hard to get there in a lot of cases in Columbia,” he says. “It’s going to be

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difficult to solve the whole problem.

We just need to make progress.”

While there are several reasons for the high home prices, one aspect is sheer inventory, says Jessica Kempf, sales manager with Weichert Realtors-First Tier. “There’s just no houses to sell,” she says. “That’s why prices are increasing, making it more unaffordable. It’s like this vicious snowball that continues.”

And when there’s no affordable places to live, Columbia loses its ability to retain college graduates

the issue, Cole says he sees several barriers, including a lack of available resources, the intricacies of the development process and the fees and timetables associated with the permitting process.

An Expensive Process Kempf says the development process needs to be made easier for those who want to build affordable housing through things like grading scales or incentives. Right now, it’s just expensive to build, she says, noting

There are many lots in central Columbia where single family homes once stood and they have been demolished for one reason or another, yet new ones can’t be built due to lot size restrictions.

and young professionals. “To have a healthy workforce making average wages, I think it's impossible for somebody to afford a $400,000plus home at this point,” she says.

“Affordable housing is a severe issue in Boone County.”

When it comes to addressing

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Ryan Krueger Managing Broker, Boulevard Realty that permits can cost thousands of dollars, regardless of whether it’s a 1,000 square foot home or an 8,000 square foot home. “It’s a tough situation,” Kempf says.

Jason Gruender, manager at Liberty Family Medicine and vice president of Meyer Electric Company, agrees,

noting that though his experience is more deeply rooted in the commercial side, he knows the residential realm is not much better. And when it comes to construction, he says, Columbia’s permitting and approval process is not only more expensive than other communities in Missouri, it’s more burdensome.

“It’s extremely expensive to build in this town,” Gruender says. “There’s just a lot of pain going through that process for people.”

That’s where government regulation comes in. While governmental programs can be used to ease the problem, the regulatory intricacies also can create real issues that cause developers to look elsewhere.

Ryan Krueger, managing broker at Boulevard Realty, says common sense really needs to prevail more than it has been. Several years ago, Columbia went through a lengthy process to update its zoning code, known as the Unified Development Code, which was finalized and adopted in spring 2017. Krueger says it may be time to start making some common sense allowances within the code to encourage and foster more affordable housing within city limits. “There are many lots in central Columbia where single family homes once stood and they have been demolished for one reason or another, yet new ones can’t be built due to lot size restrictions,” Krueger says.

Curtis Varns, general manager at the Networks of Mid-Missouri, which includes KMIZ, says such allowances or variances also would help with

Jessica Kempf, Curtis Varns, B.J. Hunter, Ryan Krueger

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Curtis Varns, general manager at the Networks of Mid-Missouri, says more allowances or variances in city code could help alleviate an issue with vacant commercial properties.

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vacant commercial properties. “I look at some of the commercial entities that tried to get in the market that couldn't get in,” Varns says. “I think about all the tax revenue we're missing out on.”

And while Columbia does have an appeals process in place, Krueger says that, for the most part, it’s not being handled reasonably. “I think it’s time to loosen that up a bit,” he says.

“Let’s use some common sense.”

A Growing Problem Removing the barriers to affordable housing is one of the most important things the community can tackle to help break the cycle of poverty, says Boone County Presiding Commissioner Kip Kendrick, as home ownership helps create generational wealth.

And Columbia has seen an increased issue of homelessness, Gruender says, which has become a problem. It’s come to the point where it’s not uncommon to see multiple panhandlers at the same intersection, he says, which can leave a negative impression on visitors.

“That’s got to be solved,” he says.

“Just from an image and perception standpoint, that does not bode well for somebody coming in.”

Alex Demczak, co-founder of Streamline Books, agrees, noting that the increased visibility led him to have to explain what being homeless means to his 3-yearold child. “Having to have those conversations with a 3-year-old … that is for sure an interesting conversation,” Demczak says.

Cole, the CEO of the Columbia Housing Authority, says there’s typically about 240 chronically homeless people in the community, based on an annual count done by local agencies. Chronic homelessness refers to people who have been homeless for at least a

“A shelter is one portion of this,” Kendrick says. “We need to make sure that we are looking at the continuum. What comes next, whether it be a pallet home, a small home … We need to have a real honest conversation.”

Varns says despite what some

We do see successes. I think there’s no quick fix and it just has to be a sustained effort knowing that it’s going to be messy.

Randy Cole

CEO, Columbia Housing Authority

year or repeatedly while struggling with a disabling condition such as mental illness, physical disability or a substance abuse disorder.

Often, what more people see are the panhandlers, who are unlikely to be in the chronic homeless category.

As Cole points out, the chronic homeless figures do not include the more than 1,200 households that are on the Housing Authority’s wait list who are staying in a hotel or living in their car.

Kendrick says it’s important to include those cases when looking at the whole picture of homelessness.

may think, the number of homeless in Columbia is fairly average for the area. “It’s not extraordinarily high here,” Varns says, noting that KMIZ did some reporting on the issue earlier this year, comparing Columbia to Topeka, which had a higher homeless population. He also notes that Missouri is not near the top when it comes to statewide numbers either.

Cole says the root causes of local homelessness also are pretty much in line with other areas. “I think a lot of it is economics,” Cole says.

“The people on our wait list would

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be considered homeless under federal law because many aren’t under a formal lease.”

It’s no secret that homeless camps exist across the city and the county, Kendrick says, even though officials

homeless population, Cole says it’s a tougher population to reach and they help with removing barriers to choose a path upward. He notes that the Housing Authority has a new homeless outreach coordinator

If you start hearing stories about moving to get them into Battle (High School), that's when the game has changed.

continue to find them and clean them out, which is an expensive endeavor.

But it’s also known that those camps simply move to another location each time that happens, he says. Instead, Kendrick says the city and county need to look at whether there is land somewhere in the area that could house a sanctioned facility or camp that contains the issue and allows for regular cleaning.

“There are no easy answers,” Kendrick says. “We know that we’ll never truly solve the issue, but we need to be working together as a community, government, nongovernmental entities and businesses to try and find those pathways and take that risk.”

When it comes to the chronically

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Jason Gruender Manager, Liberty Family Medicine

position who visits homeless camps and area service providers to try to help people fill out applications and get them started on the right path.

“It’s really hard to figure out and it’s a grind,” Cole says. “We do see successes. I think there’s no quick fix and it just has to be a sustained effort knowing that it’s going to be messy.”

A Top Concern B.J. Hunter, owner of FASTSIGNS, says he would like to see more of a focus on addressing crime in Columbia, especially violent crime. “It’s amazing the amount of crime that goes on and with weapons involved,” Hunter says.

“Now everybody has a gun. I don’t understand that.”

Kempf agrees, noting that she has

seen more of a rise in violent crime than Columbia used to have. “Growing up in Columbia, we've always experienced some level of smaller petty crimes,” she says. “It's going to happen. We're obviously a way bigger population than we used to be, which is a great thing, but along with that comes a chance for more serious crimes.”

Varns says crime is repeatedly marked as the No. 1 concern among KMIZ viewers and that their charge as a news station is to let people know what’s being done to address the issue.

“If it’s happening, people want to know about it,” Varns says.

Kempf says crime is not specific to one area, noting that it is a communitywide issue that all of Columbia needs to address.

Krueger says there is a stigma about north Columbia, though it is easing as more businesses and amenities move into north Columbia to better facilitate future growth. “There is growth happening and that will help bring people there,” he says.

Hunter and Gruender say it also comes down to school choices.

Many parents try to locate in south Columbia so their children can be in the Rock Bridge schools, Gruender says. “If you start hearing stories about moving to get them into Battle (High School), that's when the game has changed,” Gruender says. “That's a long play though.”

Kendrick says he is cautiously optimistic that the planned expansion of Interstate 70 will include funding for the creation of new outer roads on both the north and south side.

“Those outer roads are going to lead to more economic opportunities,” Kendrick says.

Jason Gruender, manager at Liberty Family Medicine, says school choice factors heavily into where families choose to live, noting that many choose south Columbia so their children can go to Rock Bridge schools.

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RAPIDFIRE Final Thoughts "As an entrepreneur living in Columbia, I would love to

everybody as best we can, but let's try to help the ones

see more co-working spaces. There is so much benefit in

who are easier to help and have a better chance at moving

connecting with other entrepreneurs, and I think a lot of

forward. Let's try to prioritize that so we can move the whole

people would utilize them because of the rise in hybrid or

economy forward and the whole community forward.”

remote workers since the pandemic.”

— Ryan Krueger, managing broker at Boulevard Realty

— Alex Demczak, co-founder of Streamline Books “I love the outdoor opportunities here. We punch above “I still feel strongly that if you get enough of the right

our weight culturally in this community. Let's just follow it

people in the room across multiple sectors, have folks from

out all the way. If we subscribe to the broken window theory

the private sector with their expertise and then nonprofit

that if we take care of our own and keep everything fixed

folks and other governmental folks … to direct what they

up, good things happen. I-70 is a good example of that. I'm

want to see happen (with development codes) and how that

confident we're going the right direction.”

would work.”

— Curtis Varns, general manager at the Networks of

— Randy Cole, CEO of the Columbia Housing Authority

Mid-Missouri

“Something we didn’t talk about was attracting that

“Workforce development — There are certain positions

workforce here and keeping them here, that middle income

I have that I get applications in all the time for. There are

that really can support an economy. A trade school would

others that never see anybody come in. We'd like to find a

be huge in Columbia … something bigger and better. … We

well-rounded approach to bringing employees in and give

need that.”

them the chance to develop.”

— Jessica Kempf, sales manager with Weichert Realtors-

— B.J. Hunter, owner of FASTSIGNS

First Tier “Near and dear to my heart is going to be affordable “All too often, we avoid the difficult conversations, where

health care. I don't remember the statistics, but a lot of

difficult conversations allow you to push beyond the minutia

homelessness is related to medical financial crisis. So, a lot

to actually see what your long-term vision should be. All

of people are probably one major medical event away from

the things we've talked about today are critical to our future

homelessness. … How do we fix that?”

workforce development. We're just starting to scratch the

— Jason Gruender, manager at Liberty Family Medicine

surface a little bit.”

and vice president of Meyer Electric Company

— Kip Kendrick, Boone County presiding commissioner “We need to utilize common sense more and use the tools you already have in the toolbox. … Let's try to help

118

I INSIDE COLUMBIA’S CEO I WINTER 2023

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WINTER 2023 I INSIDE COLUMBIA’S CEO I 119

Selling 1 property every 3 days!

Sold over $75 million 2021-2022 Creative, tenacious & trusted professionals Over 60 years of Columbia area experience

Tracy, Beth and Bennett Arey TracyArey.com | 573-489-7146 Q @sellingCoMo | E @TracyAreyRealEstate

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Inside Columbia

flavor C O N T E N T S

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Remaking Memories ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Mint Mocha Masterpiece ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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An Irish Holiday Special

EXCEPTIONAL EGGNOG

One of the most traditional Christmas drinks has to be eggnog, and people tend to either love it or hate it. If you’re a nog lover, stay away from store-bought versions. With a little effort and a few ingredients (including bourbon or rum, depending on your preference), you can make a notable nog at home. And don’t be afraid to try something a little different. For example, why not use your eggnog as a sauce on a tasty pie or with ice cream?

Greta Gunderson (left) and Ava Gunderson (right) are the owners of Son of a Gun in downtown Columbia.

flavor DINING OUT

Shooting Their Shot

SISTERS OPEN NEW BAR TARGETED AT POST-COLLEGE YOUNG ADULTS.

BY ZOLA HECK · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

W

hen you think of the

have to convince me, but I was a little

downtown scene in

apprehensive at first," Ava says.

Columbia, you might

But then Ava visited during

The sisters don't want people looking at the menu and being confused by drink names, not knowing what they are

not think of a relaxing

Summerfest, an annual showcase of

ordering. "All the cocktails we plan to have

young adult atmosphere because, let's all

live music in downtown Columbia.

will be simplified," Greta says, noting that

admit, during the school year, the college

After seeing the crowd surrounding the

they want the menu to be digestible and

kids have the run of downtown.

potential bar space on Ninth Street, she

tantalizing. "We want the initial thought to be intriguing, not terrifying.”

But Greta and Ava Gunderson, a

knew it was right. "I was like, what are the

dynamic duo from Omaha, Nebraska,

chances this is happening this day, and I

While the focus is on the drinks, the

have set their sights on redefining the bar

am getting to see it in its prime like this,"

Gunderson sisters say they offer small,

experience in the city, offering a fusion

Ava says.

unique snacks to complement the bar's

of innovative cocktails, a welcoming

Once both sisters were on board, they

aesthetic. "We will have pre-packaged

atmosphere and a touch of their signature

hit the ground running to create their

snacks, which we hope to make a little

charm. After both pursuing professional

modern yet vintage bar downtown. While

more fun and different than the standard

bartending throughout the country,

everyone is welcome, the Gunderson

just chips," Ava says. Greta adds that "the

knowing the dream was to open their

sisters say the goal is to be a bar for young

one thing we have got down is Cosmic

own bar one day, fate took control and

adults. "You will never find a $2 double

Brownies,” referring to the Little Debbie

presented the sisters with the perfect

well special here," Greta says. "Not to say

brownie that is topped with fudge icing

opportunity to open Son of a Gun at 16

college students 21 and up aren't welcome,

and candy-coated chocolate pieces.

N. Ninth St. in October. "The timing was

but we want it to be a place where the

The sisters want customers to come

really serendipitous," Greta says. Ava is

young adults in Columbia that don't

in and be able to satisfy their late-night

quick to agree, noting that the timing just

necessarily have a cute bar they can go to,

craving while having a delicious drink.

felt right.

can come to."

But Son of a Gun is not just a business

From 2014-2017, Greta attended

The sisters have truly poured their

venture, it is truly a family affair, from the

the University of Missouri, bartending

passion and creativity into every aspect

collaboration between the sisters to the

at several area bars, including Roxy's

of the bar, from its ambiance to its

establishment's name, which is a take on

and The Penguin, and truly fell in love

innovative cocktail menu. The result is a

the sisters' last name, Gunderson. "Being

with Columbia. "I just really loved that

space that seamlessly transitions from a

sisters makes it easier because at the

experience,” she says. “I had such a

chic cocktail lounge to a lively nightspot,

end of the day, we are sisters, and we are

good time with everyone that I worked

catering to a diverse crowd seeking a

family. It's not like our friendship can end,"

with. It just made me love the Columbia

memorable evening out. "We want it to be

Greta says.

community." While she spent her college

the go-to spot,” Greta says. “Whether you

The family-driven work ethic is felt

years getting to know Columbia, her

are just getting out of work and having a

throughout the bar, creating a warm

sister, Ava, was getting her degree at

couple of beers, or if you are going to go

and welcoming environment making

the University of Nebraska Omaha and

on a date and want to have a couple of

customers feel part of something special.

unfamiliar with the community that was

cocktails or beers or shots as well, it can

enamoring Greta. "Greta didn't really

encompass all of that."

For more information, visit sonofaguncomo.com.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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flavor FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

A Taste of Nostalgia

FAMILY CHRISTMAS COOKIE RECIPE EVOKES MEMORIES OF PAST HOLIDAYS.

BY SARA FOUGERE · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

T

his year, maybe more than any other, I am craving holiday comfort.

I want my favorite Christmas

movies and the carols you sing in the car, loudly and badly, with mispronounced words that the children wove into the song so many years ago that we don’t remember who actually said “mamger” not manger.

I want all the foods that remind me of my childhood and of those family gatherings that seemed like they’d last forever and too quickly became memories.

And hear me out, I want to bring back the Christmas Cookie Exchange Party.

Do you remember when your mom went to that party? With 10 dozen of her signature Christmas cookies that magically transformed into 10 dozen different cookies?

I remember lifting the foil from the plates and being delighted in the bounty. Cookie exchanges, now more than ever, are genius.

We gather, we laugh, we nibble and we take home enough cookies for an indulgent holiday spread.

This year, I’m hosting a group of friends and together we are going to bake our childhood. My cookie of choice? My mother’s Oatmeal Carmelitas. Crunchy, decadent and all my favorite flavors in a bar cookie. You have my permission to use it when you organize your own holiday cookie exchange.

Happy holidays!

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

flavor FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

Oatmeal Carmelitas INGREDIENTS 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

package. No opening little individual cellophane wrapped caramels.)

2 ¼ cups brown sugar, lightly packed

8 tablespoons half and half

¾ teaspoon baking soda

12 ounces chocolate chips (I love the dark but semi-sweet are wonderful too)

3 cups quick oats

1 pound (4 sticks) butter, melted 2 pounds caramels (I use 3 packages of the Kraft Caramel Bits, which are in an 11-ounce

2 cups chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt and baking soda in a large bowl and mix. Add the melted butter and mix well.

Divide the mixture in half and press one half into a parchment lined 13x18 standard half size sheet pan.

Bake for 10-12 until light brown.

Melt the caramels and half and half in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Reserve about 1/3 of the caramel mixture and pour the rest over the oatmeal mixture. Sprinkle chocolate chips and pecans over the top.

Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture on top and drizzle with the remaining caramel.

Return to oven and bake for 12 more minutes until brown. Cool, then cut.

92 B.T.I

93 A.W.S

90

Decanter

93 A.W.S

93 B.T.I

91 B.T.I

YOU DESERVE THE BEST

STONEHILLWINERY.COM | Hermann, Missouri INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

125

flavor COCKTAIL

A Magical Mixture MINT MOCHATINI ENCOMPASSES THE BEST FLAVORS OF CHRISTMAS.

BY TRAVIS “T.O.” OAKLEY · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

W

hen I think about Christmas, I think about dessert — sweet flavors, chocolates, mints and candy canes.

So, we decided to create a dessert martini. At 9th

Street Public House, we don’t serve food, so we like to think of people coming in after dinner. That’s why we added coffee and chocolate for the perfect after-dinner treat.

Travis “T.O” Oakley is the general manager at 9th Street Public House.

Mint Mochatini INGREDIENTS 1 ounce cold brew coffee (9th Street Public House uses coffee from Coffee Zone)

3/4 ounces Rumple Minze 1 ounce Tavern Keep vodka

2 ounces Baileys chocolate liqueur TO MAKE THE DRINK: Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and shake. Pour into a martini glass and enjoy!

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

127

flavor COOKING WITH BROOK

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

flavor COOKING WITH BROOK

Holiday Happiness LEARN TO MAKE YOUR OWN IRISH CREAM THIS SEASON.

BY BROOK HARLAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

A

bout a year ago, I started

you can use just about any liquor. I had a

little bit of texture can really add to the

researching coffee liqueur for

delicious tequila coffee cream made in the

final product.

a column in this magazine.

same manner that someone brought from

This took me down a rabbit

Mexico. It was delicious.

hole about Irish cream liqueur, as I did not

Think outside the box (or bottle), make

realize that some recipes for Irish cream

some things, change it up. Worst case

also have coffee liqueur.

scenario, you may pour 25.6 ounces of a

Soon, I found myself thinking, “how hard could it be to make that?”

liqueur down the drain if it is that subpar … or just drink it.

About a dozen recipes revisions later, I have something that I think holds up pretty well to the Irish cream liqueur found in the store.

I like making things as simple as possible, this method is a little easier with a scale that can measure in grams.

(You can find the measurements in grams in the online version of this article at insidecolumbia.net.) Place your bottle on the scale, hit the tare or zero button, and tare after each ingredient.

You also can measure out the ingredients by volume, which will mean a few more dirty dishes.

Despite its name, Irish cream is not a traditional drink from Ireland. The first Irish cream, Baileys, was invented in 1973 by an English advertising executive and exploded with popularity.

LIQUOR Typically, Irish cream liqueur uses whiskey. When it was invented, it was Jameson Irish whiskey, but whatever suits your fancy will work. With that being said,

VANILLA Cheap vanilla or good vanilla —

COFFEE Looking into how many people make an Irish cream “clone” instant coffee was a recurring theme. The second common theme was a small amount of coffee liqueur. Using something along the lines of Kahlúa or a small amount of espresso will do the trick, but if you really want to dive down a rabbit hole, you can try your

unfortunately, it can’t be both. You can

hand at making your own. Some type

go as fancy as getting vanilla beans, aging

of infusion of coffee and rum or vodka

your own vanilla or getting a high-quality

sweetened with a lightly caramelized

vanilla extract shipped from the Bourbon

sugar, but again, Kahlúa or instant coffee

islands, or just buy some imitation vanilla

will work fine.

and add to desired taste.

With making drinks like this, vanilla is like sandpaper; it smoothes out some of the sharp edges. Those edges could be the alcohol, coffee or other overly intense flavors in other drinks. It may not be overly powerful, but it is there and doing its job.

CHOCOLATE

CREAM This is where the whole premise for Irish cream came about. Ireland is known for the delicious dairy that their cows produce. They wanted to find something that could be just as popular as the Kerrygold butter and cheese that had come about a decade before.

This is another place to splurge or

Many recipes I found used non-dairy

use what you have. You can get the best,

creamer and while I am sure this brings

Ghirardelli Chocolate 100% Cacao or

a much more stable product, I was more

just use Hershey's chocolate powder

worried about taste. I wanted to use real

that expired in 2004. Many times, I will

cream; also knowing that the addition of

have dark chocolate bars that need to be

alcohol extends its shelf life, I knew I had

consumed and this works great just to

a chance. When I use real cream, I usually

shave and add to the cream. It may not

find that the shelf life is at least three to

completely dissolve, but sometimes that

four weeks, if not longer.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

129

flavor COOKING WITH BROOK

MIX This was something I had to break down a bit. Just mixing everything together and blending would be easy, but what effect would it have on the cream?

Would it start to whip, would it separate?

I eventually found that most of the sugar and other components would dissolve into the alcohol if added directly to the bottle, then shaken vigorously.

This prevented the cream from being whipped, and it could be added at the end, preventing unwanted thickening of the liqueur.

STORAGE Sometimes we have things longer than we intend. I had a bottle of the original Irish liqueur on a shelf and finally decided to use it for something, only to find it was a solid block of congealed cream. Looking into it a bit more, storebought Irish cream apparently has about a two-year shelf life (unopened), and once opened should go into the refrigerator and be consumed in about six months.

If you are going to make this, you won’t have that luxury. This can be much cheaper than buying a bottle of the original, but since you don’t have the ability to ultra-pasteurize, your shelf life will be closer to three to four weeks.

IRISH CREAM INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

•2 tablespoons coffee liqueur

Using a scale or measuring cups, pour ingredients from coffee liqueur to whiskey through a funnel into a bottle. You can start by placing the empty bottle with a funnel in it on the scale and hitting tare/zero. Then pouring each ingredient through the funnel and hitting tare on the scale after each ingredient.

•1 ½ teaspoons dark cocoa powder •2 ounces real vanilla or 1-3 vanilla beans, split •1 cup granulated sugar •Pinch of salt

130

Place the cap on tightly and shake vigorously for two to three minutes until sugar is mostly dissolved.

•1 cup whiskey

Using the funnel, add the cream. Gently shake the bottle side to side, being careful to not agitate too much and whip.

•1 to 1 ¼ cup cream

Store in the refrigerator until ready to use, typically good for three to four weeks.

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

The Beloved Holiday Tradition Continues

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131

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Inside Columbia

views C O N T E N T S

135 Dueling DJs

∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

137 On The Town

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142 A New View

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143

Darkow Draws ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

ROUNDABOUT REACTIONS

We’re no strangers to roundabouts in mid-Missouri.

In Columbia alone, there are 48 roundabouts, according to city data. Engineers recommend them because studies show that they minimize the types of crashes that occur and improve traffic flow. A new roundabout is being planned at the intersection of West Route K and West Old Plank Road, with construction scheduled to begin in spring 2025. What do you think — will it help or just cause more problems?

145

The Final Word

Life Insurance Does someone in your life rely on your income? What happens if they lose that? Make sure they're protected.

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Phyllis Nichols, Agent 1006 West Blvd N | Columbia, MO 65203 573-443-8727 | phyllisjnichols.com |

views DUELING DJS insider DUELING DJS

Dance Floor Deception WHOSE MOVES ARE THE MOST MASTERFUL?

In each issue, on-air talents from different Zimmer Communications’ stations will take on a seemingly simple challenge to see who comes out on top. In this issue, we had four DJs attempt the imposter musical challenge, including Cosmo from Y107, Aric from Clear99, Shags from 96.7 KCMQ and Stephanie from 93.9 The Eagle. The four DJs went head-to-head to see who has the best trickster dance moves. Make sure to visit insidecolumbia.net to see a video of the whole challenge!

DJ will have a completely different song. The goal is for the one imposter to blend his dance moves in with the others to trick them into thinking they are all listening to the same song. At the end of the songs, the DJs will guess to see who the imposter is. If they guess correctly, revealing the imposter, they win. If they guess incorrectly, the imposter wins.

THE CONTENDERS Aric from Clear99 came ready to show off his moves, while the others were nervous, to say the least. Cosmo from Y107 felt his dance moves would set him behind; Shags from 96.7 KCMQ was, well, just embarrassed about the whole thing; and poor Stephanie from 93.9 The Eagle didn’t even know she was about to play a game.

THE OUTCOME After one attempt to play, Cosmo, the first imposter, revealed he didn’t

quite understand the game and quickly announced to his opponents that he was listening to a different song. During the second attempt, all four DJs started with similar moves, making it difficult to decide who might be jamming to a different song. Aric was movin’ and groovin’ in his own little world, Shags was eyeing the competition, Cosmo was just happy to be included in the main group and Stephanie wasn’t trusting anyone’s dance moves. After a few minutes, most of the imposter votes went to Stephanie.

As a surprise to even the imposter himself, Aric was revealed as the imposter, ultimately winning this edition of Dueling DJs.

” ” ” ”

THE CHALLENGE Three DJs will listen to the same song with headphones, while one lonely

I don’t think there was anything confusing about the game, I just understood it, played to win and I did it. It’s always nice to come out victorious against my peers.

-Aric I am just happy Aric won for being the imposter, it fits.

-Shags We are all imposters, we let you win. Obviously, I can’t dance still.

-Cosmo If we were dancing to ‘Single Ladies,’ I needed another lady up here.

-Stephanie

" " " "

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

135

What Matters Most to You?

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Employee Benefit Plans IRAs

Insurance products and services are offered by Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company or one of its affiliates. Home office: 3300 Mutual of Omaha Plaza, Omaha, NE 68175.

Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company is licensed nationwide. United of Omaha Life Insurance Company is licensed nationwide, except New York. United World Life Insurance Company is licensed nationwide except Connecticut, New York and the Virgin Islands. Companion Life Insurance Company, Hauppauge, NY 11788-2934, is licensed in New York.

Omaha Insurance Company is licensed in all states except: AL, CA, CO, ID, IL, LA, NC, NH, NV, NY, PR, RI, VI, VT and WI. Products not available in all states. Each underwriting company is solely responsible for its own contractual and financial obligations. Individual medical coverage available through Mutual of Omaha Marketing Corporation, and is underwritten by various insurers. Registered Representatives offer securities through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. a Registered Broker/Dealer. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisor representatives offer advisory services through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Advisory Firm.

Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

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views ON THE TOWN

2nd Annual Larry Gross Golf Tournament The second annual Larry Gross Golf Tournament to benefit the Lewy Body Awareness Fund was held Aug. 8 at the Country Club Hallie Gibbs; Hallie Gibbs, III; Tami Turner; RJ Mueth

of Missouri. More than 120 golfers participated in the event, which raised more than $71,000 for the Larry Gross Lewy Body Awareness Foundation. The foundation provides resources and support for families worldwide affected by Lewy body dementia, as well as education for medical personnel, health care workers and long and short-term

Ada Buckman, Brad Cone, Don Hinshaw, Suzanne Stuebben

Melinda Netemeyer, Sam Verslues, Cori Busby, Steve Busby

facilities to better deal with the progressive dementia.

Date Aug. 8

Location Country Club of Missouri

Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com Dennis Hazelrigg, Jess Peterson, Ray Hazelrigg, Brit Clements

Heidi Davis, Chris Davis, Gina Gervino, Kevin Brown

Chris White, Alex White, Cooper Greenwood, Brett Mooney

John Cleek, Jr., John Cleek, III, Thomas Cleek, Ray Schachter

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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views ON THE TOWN

Celebration of the Arts Celebration of the Arts, an annual fundraising event supporting the Columbia Arts Fund, was held Aug. 23 at The Bistro at The Blufftop at Rocheport. In addition to supporting the arts fund, which is an endowment fund that provides perpetual support for local arts organizations, the event unveils

Michelle Schaefer, Nikki Krawitz, Melody Marcks

the city’s annual commemorative poster. This year’s design is from Jenny McGee and comes from a collection of Midwest art collages.

Date Aug. 23

Location The Bistro at The Blufftop at Rocheport

Marie Hunter, Sarah Dresser, Andrea Jira

Sara Riegel and Wende Wagner

Bridgett Randolph and Jennifer Rubin

Angel Arnall and Wendy Laster

Tom Guy, Dana Jennings, Lori Guy

Tami McCormick, Danielle Schneider, Amy Schneider

Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com

138

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

views ON THE TOWN

Lyceum Theatre Party The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre invited Lyceum subscribers and donors to the 2024 Season Announcement party on Aug. 29 at The Hollow in Blackwater.

Guests enjoyed a delicious meal and were the first to hear about the lineup of shows that The Quin Gresham, Richard and Marti Hodge, Jennifer True, Steve Bertani

Lyceum will produce in the 2024 season. Additionally, the event provided an opportunity to honor dedicated supporters Richard and Marti Hodge, and Jennifer True, each of whom received the 2023 Distinguished Donor awards.

Date Aug. 29 Monica, Anna and Russ Palmer

Cindy Campbell and Mary Atkison

Location The Hollow in Blackwater

Photos by Ryan J. Zirngibl

Carol and Jim Roller

Caryn and Rodney Ginter

Wendy and Lynn Miller

Dan and Betty Buchheit

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

139

GIVE THE GIFT OF RUNNING 10 W Nifong Blvd Ste 113 Columbia, MO 65203 573.777.6955 Coming Soon to Jefferson City!!

140

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

views ON THE TOWN

CelebrARTy 2023 Access Arts hosted their annual signature fundraiser, CelebrARTy, Dustin Hawkins, Janelle Schultz, Brian McMullen

Kyle Gilleland and Ismaeel Bilal

sponsored by Paytient, on Sept. 6 at The Blue Note. The event pairs local celebrities with local artists to create unique pieces of art for auction and, along the way, they compete to see who can raise the most funds for Access Arts. This year, more than $30,000 was raised to support our mission of providing creative learning experiences for everyone.

Date Allye Grace Grisham, Lisa Franko, Judy Steinhoff

Sept. 6

Location The Blue Note

Photos by Jonathan Asher

Phylshawn Johnson and Violet Vonder Haar

Sharyn Hyatt-Wade and Stephanie Turner Goans

Shawna Johnson, Jenn Book Haselswerdt, Jeri Donoho, Lydia Clark, Dan Hlavac, Kate Stull, Michael Lising, Holly Linneman

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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views A NEW VIEW

A New View

BEING A PHOTOGRAPHER, I HAVE ACCESS TO SOME UNIQUE POINTS OF VIEW IN THE COMMUNITY.

Assignment: Family Farm Visit The Location: Rural Shelby County

M

y family owns a small chunk of land near Shelbyville, Missouri.

I grew up hunting, fishing and cutting a lot of wood on that land.

It’s very scenic with big old oak and walnut trees that speckle the rolling hills of tall grass. I’ve spent many days sitting on the bank of the small pond, fishing for catfish, bass and crappie.

My grandpa maintained that pond and one year, he decided to plant a lily pad in a corner to add a little more color to the scene.

Slowly, the lily pads began to take over, now pretty much covering the entire pond.

It’s quite a sight to see.

On a hot summer day, those big yellow flowers floating on giant green leaves is quite a beautiful thing to see, but it does keep you from fishing.

I stopped by the farm this fall after the lily pads had died out. There were not bright colored flowers or floating leaves. Everything was brown.

Rising from the water like weird little aliens bowing to the sun were the seed pods.

That just means more of those lily pads in the future.

They are nice to look at, but I still miss the fishing.

L.G. Patterson

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INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

views THE FINAL WORD

It’s Time for Action

COLLABORATION KEY AS WORKFORCE ISSUES WORSEN.

BY FRED PARRY

A

s you will read in this issue of Inside

workforce is made up of people who don’t live

that resonate with younger workers and are

Columbia, we hosted another CEO

in Columbia.

working intensely on the housing, child care

Roundtable Luncheon last month.

To make matters even more challenging,

and transportation issues that have traditionally

At these semi-annual luncheons we invite

there’s a growing concern among Missouri

prevented workers from coming to their

local community leaders to have a candid

employers that students graduating from our

market. In addition to quality-of-life amenities,

conversation with the magazine’s leadership

high schools and colleges are not adequately

nearly 30% of surveyed workers who recently

team about Columbia’s current state of

prepared for the workforce. More than 65%

relocated for work did so because they were

affairs and their concerns for the future of

of surveyed employers claim that today’s

moving closer to family. There’s a widespread

our community. In addition to the topics

graduates are lacking the professional and

belief that this type of “boomerang” effect could

of crime, a shortage of affordable housing

life skills necessary for full time employment.

be to Columbia’s benefit for those workers

options and deep concerns surrounding

Basic requirements like showing up to work on

who feel a sense of familial connection to the

Columbia’s chronically unhoused population,

time, being appropriately dressed and an ability

University of Missouri, Columbia College and

a significant shortage in Columbia’s workforce

to work productively with co-workers and

Stephens College.

is the one issue that has consistently been a

customers are among the most troubling issues.

The best way for Columbia and Boone

popular topic since we started hosting these

This lack of preparation with demographic

County to contend with its workforce shortage

trends like Baby Boomers retiring in record

is to hunker down and be certain that there

Not long after our CEO Roundtable

numbers and the significant cliff caused by

is maximum collaboration and alignment

Luncheon, I had the opportunity to attend

a decline in birthrate that started in 2007 is

between Columbia’s employers, social service

the Workforce 2030 Conference hosted by the

troubling. As if that’s not challenging enough,

agencies and our educational institutions.

Missouri Chamber of Commerce. To no one’s

we have a generation of new workers (Gen Z)

We need to be certain that our high schools,

surprise, Columbia is not alone in its shortage

who would prefer to pursue entrepreneurial

community colleges, vocational schools and

of qualified workers. Like other communities,

endeavors or short-term gigs instead of full-

colleges understand and are responsive to the

we struggle with issues that make it difficult for

time employment. Survey results confirm these

needs of Boone County employers and are

us to attract workers. Chief among those issues

trends with 36% of respondents indicating that

equally committed to delivering well-prepared

is our lack of affordable housing and reliable

they prefer “job flexibility” over “job stability.” A

candidates to the local workforce.

public transportation, as well as affordable

growing number of workers want flexible hours

child care. A survey performed for the Missouri

and the ability to work from home. This trend

and robust economy to underwrite our

Chamber, revealed that nearly 80% of those

does not bode well for the service industry,

exceptional quality of life driven by parks, trails

who are gainfully employed find it difficult to

retail and public safety sectors.

and other public amenities. We all have a stake

luncheons nearly 20 years ago.

We are a community that relies on a healthy

deal with the expense and reliability of child

This same survey also projected that

in our workforce shortage and must do all we

care options. For many able-bodied workers, it’s

nearly 75% of all future jobs won’t require a

can to reverse this troubling trend. The time for

just easier to avoid these barriers by staying out

college degree. This trend, combined with

action is now.

of the workforce.

the previously mentioned demographic shifts

As community leaders conceded during

should be of great concern to a community, like

our CEO Roundtable Luncheon, there are no

Columbia, whose economic engine is driven by

easy answers to address our affordable housing

higher education.

issues here in Columbia. Business owners have

There are some cities that are bucking

decided that the best way to contend with our

the national trends and finding success in

shortage of workers is to import workers from

convincing prospective workers to come to

outside of Columbia. Most people might be

their communities to work. These cities have

surprised to know that almost 40% of our local

placed a laser-like focus on quality-of-life issues

Fred Parry Founder & Publisher Emeritus fred@insidecolumbia.net

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

145

ADVERTISING INDEX

Ai Painting Plus ....................................................... 23, 73

Hawthorn Bank ....................................................... 148

Allstate Consultants LLC ...................................... 105

Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing ......... 14, 78-79

Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre ................................ 131

Inside Columbia magazine ................................... 26

Atterberry Auction and Realty Company .......... 6

Jillian Kate LLC ........................................................ 120

Aurora Medical Spa ............................................... 67

Joe Machens Ford Lincoln .................................... 3

Automated Systems .............................................. 109, 147

Korte Tree Care ....................................................... 32

Bank of MO .............................................................. 62

Las Margaritas ........................................................ 10

Bluffs ......................................................................... 86

McClure Engineering Company .......................... 44

BMW of Columbia ................................................. 8

Mediacom ................................................................ 28, 119

Boone Health ........................................................... 9

Mid America Bank ................................................. 21

Boulevard Realty ..................................................... 85

MO Eye Consultants .............................................. 66

Brian Wear Plumbing ............................................. 65

MO Fertility Foundation ........................................ 83

Broadway, A Doubletree by Hilton ..................... 18, 95

MO Vein Care ......................................................... 5

Burrell Behavioral Health ...................................... 87

Mutrux Automotive LLC ....................................... 74

Carson & Coil .......................................................... 84

Mutual of Omaha ................................................... 136

CC’s City Broiler ...................................................... 2

NH Scheppers Distributing .................................. 126

Clip Joint .................................................................. 140

Platinum Paws ......................................................... 16

Columbia Academy for Learning & Enrichment (CALE) ................................................ 69

Rave Homes ............................................................. 25

Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture ............ 94 Columbia Dent Company ..................................... 82 Commerce Trust ..................................................... 4 Coyote Hill Christian Children’s Home ..............13 Critter Control of Central Missouri .................... 70 Designer Kitchens and Baths ............................... 72 Dr Kent Willett DDS .............................................. 80 Edward Jones - Ann M Echelmeier ..................... 88 Edward Jones - Gina Mauller ............................... 97 Estates of Columbia ............................................... 40 Fleet Feet Columbia ............................................... 140 Genesis Company .................................................. 12 GKR Motors ............................................................. 64 Good Day Farm ....................................................... 71

146

INSIDE COLUMBIA NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Regeneration Salon & Spa .................................... 21 Remax Boone Realty - Alice Leeper .................... 68 Restoration Eye Care ............................................. 81 River Hills Landscaping ......................................... 61 Rost Landscaping & Superior Gardens .............. 26 State Farm Insurance - Phyllis Nichols .............. 75, 134 Steve’s Pest Control ............................................... 76 Stone Hill Winery ................................................... 125 SumnerOne ............................................................. 92, 132 Terrace Retirement Community .......................... 144 Tigers on the Prowl ................................................ 36 Tracy Arey Real Estate .......................................... 120 Will Garrett - MO Farm Bureau ........................... 27 Women’s Health Associates ................................ 77

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

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NOV/DEC 2023

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