Inside Columbia Magazine October 2021

147 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

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features

Inside Columbia

features

C O N T E N T S

62 REQUIRED COURSES 10 THINGS EVERY COLUMBIAN MUST DO!

66

FROM MID MO TO NASHVILLE MEET FOUR NEW COUNTRY ARTISTS ON THE RISE.

120 MARVELOUS MIX & MATCH FASHION FINDS THAT'LL BECOME AUTOMATIC AUTUMN FAVES

54 FALL FORAYS WHERE TO MAKE TRACKS … OR MAKE CAMP.

114 THROW LIKE A GIRL! LOCAL SOFTBALL TEAM SCORES ONE FOR THE AGES.

2021 Sprinter

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In Every Issue

Oct/Nov C O

N

T

E

N

14 FROM THE EDITOR 18 WHAT’S ONLINE

T S

Life 23 24 5 THINGS

Tipped Off: 5 Travel Tidbits 26 HOME TOUR

Do-it-yourselfer Creates Custom Kitchen.

30 ENCOUNTERS

Sharing Kindness In CoMo With The Children’s Grove 34 HEALTH AND FITNESS

Seasonal Soups To Nourish And Gnosh.

37 ROBINSON’S RAMBLINGS

Columbia’s Music Claim To Fame.

Flavor 41 42 FOUGERE’S FAVORITES

Columnist Sara Fougere Shares Squash Succulence.

44 DINING OUT

Bud’s B-B-Q Is Anything But Basic.

26 48

47 COCKTAIL

Fuel Your Procrastination With Melanie Lising’s Ode To Lateness.

48 COOKING WITH BROOK

Cultural Cuisine: Chef Harlan’s Buildable Curry Base

83-113

Insider 125 126 BOOKSHELF

Bookworms Need Apply: Skylark’s Literary

Club Debuts 128 WEDDINGS

John Miles And Taryn Cadle Strike Gold 132 CALENDAR 137 SPOTLIGHT

Pleinly Speaking, This Outdoor Painting Event And Sale Is A Must-attend.

Views 139

140 ON THE TOWN 142 DUELING DJS 143 A NEW VIEW 144 DARKOW DRAWS 146 THE FINAL WORD INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 13

from the editor

OLIVIA DeSMIT

Traditions Old & New

FAREWELL ISSUE PACKED WITH FUN.

I

Olivia DeSmit

Managing Editor | odesmit@insidecolumbia.net Inside Columbia magazine

t’s a tradition for University of Missouri students to “ride the tiger.” But it turns out that it’s harder to do so when you’re no longer a sprightly college student. In this issue we include a feature on 10 Things Every Columbian Must Do. Riding the tiger — or at least attempting to do so — is what I’d like to think of as a “bonus.”

Like most everything in life, it’s easier to complete these activities with a partner or team. This is my last issue of Inside Columbia as the editor and I just want to thank the amazing team here. I couldn’t have made it through all of the crazy fun — but also just plain crazy — press weeks, photoshoots and events without them. Over the past 28 months, the magazine team became a family and it’s one that’s very hard to leave — though I won’t be too far, and you will still see my name in these pages now and again.

Like a family, we have seen each other go through life’s trials and triumphs.

My magazine family saw me grow from an intern while in college to a recent graduate returning for this position to becoming a mom. But through all of the transformations, one thing remained consistent: We were there for each other.

While we didn’t all go camping together, the magazine team did set up Associate Editor Peg Gill’s backyard last fall for the camping shoot in the feature on page 54. The photos of a marshmallow roasting over a campfire and an illuminated tent brought back memories of camping with my little brothers and dad in our backyard during the fall. While I wouldn’t consider myself anything close to a camping expert, there are some fun tips and tricks I learned along the way that are worth checking out, like new takes on s’mores. Don’t forget to also check out the story on page 114 about the Daniel Boone Little League team’s win. Those girls have loads of gumption!

So, as I pack up my colored editing pens and stacks of magazines, I am excited to see what the new editor, Madeleine, has in store. New faces and talents are always a welcome breath of fresh air to any position, and I know that she will have plenty of new, exciting things in store for you.

Until the next time!

14 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

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Inside Columbia Staff CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Carla Leible cleible@zrgmail.com FOUNDER & PUBLISHER EMERITUS Fred Parry fred@insidecolumbia.net PUBLISHER Melody Parry melody@insidecolumbia.net MANAGING EDITOR Olivia DeSmit odesmit@insidecolumbia.net ASSOCIATE EDITOR Peg Gill peg@insidecolumbia.net CONTRIBUTING WRITERS John Robinson, John Darkow, Sara Fougere, Melanie Lising, Kimber Dean, Brook Harlan, Madeline Ewing, Brittany Ruess, Joan Bellinghausen ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@zrgmail.com PHOTO EDITOR L.G. Patterson lg@insidecolumbia.net GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Madelyn Jones mjones@insidecolumbia.net Brian McGeorge

On the cover

The Daniel Boone Little League All Stars scored big. Photo by L.G. Patterson 16 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

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what’s online...

Enjoy additional digital content on our website and social media.

Inside Columbia Staff ADVERTISING COORDINATORS Jeff Ausmus jausmus@zrgmail.com Kalie Kramel kkramel@zrgmail.com Stefanie Joseph sjoseph@zrgmail.com

A HAPPY HARVEST

Last year we featured four mid-Missouri farms that will help you get your feast on. To learn more about farm-to-table Thanksgivings, head to our website and search “MidMissouri Thanksgiving.”

MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES Cathy Atkins catkins@insidecolumbia.net Laurie Quail lquail@insidecolumbia.net Josh Arnold jarnold@insidecolumbia.net Laura Fuchs lfuchs@insidecolumbia.net Hayden Haumann hhaumann@insidecolumbia.net Will Reimer wreimer@insidecolumbia.net

SPOON SALVATION

Not sure how to graciously remove the peel from ginger? No need to panic! Chef Brook Harlan shares how with an unexpected utensil. Check our Facebook page for the video tip.

OFFICE MANAGER Becky James rjames@zrgmail.com DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE Steve Leible

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

Inside Columbia is published by Zimmer

HANDMADE HALLOWEEN

Whether you’re choosing to go trick-or-treating with the kids this year or not, you’ll still need a cute costume, if only for the adorable photos. Check out some DIY options on our website by searching “Handmade Halloween.”

/InsideColumbia.net

/InsideColumbia

18 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

@Inside_Columbia

InsideColumbiaMagazine

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

Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2021.

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.

Artichoke Annie’s ANTIQUE MALL

Open 7 days a week • The Best in the Midwest

FALL OPEN HOUSE November 12-14th, 2021 1781 Lindbergh Dr. Columbia, MO 65201

Dealers will be running sales and discounts Drawings for gift certificates Snacks and refreshments will be provided

Artichoke Annie’s is located east of Columbia off of I-70, at the Millersburg exit.

Details SUBSCRIPTIONS 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 www.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 www.InsideColumbia.net or by calling 573-875-1099.

NEWS RELEASES & EVENT NOTICES Contact editor at 573-875-1099, or email to editor@insidecolumbia.net.

ON THE TOWN Send your photos with the event description and subject names for captions to tflanner@zrgmail.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 to editor@ insidecolumbia.net. Inside Columbia reserves the right to publish any letter to the editor.

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

Call Melody Parry at 573-875-1099 or email melody@insidecolumbia.net

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 Cathy Atkins at 573-875-1099 or email catkins@insidecolumbia.net.

/InsideColumbia.net 20 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

5 THE 5

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Inside Columbia

life C O N T E N T S

24

5 Trying Travel Travails.

26

NOT JOSHING AROUND First-time Homeowner Nails Drastic DIY.

30

RETURN IT IN KIND One Columbian Making A Difference.

DEBRIS DEPOT

Columbia’s branded black trash sacks are like black gold: Valuable! Extras cost extra. If your household’s s wlittle litter light, start a “Trashare '' with neighbors. One house offers to be that week’s “rubbish hub” and sets their partially-filled, loosely tied black bag out first. The others add to it, with the last one tying the “trash cache” tight.

Win for you, and our environment!

34

How To Soup Up Your Autumn Nutrition.

37 Mid-Missouri Music Makers Take The Honky Highway.

life

5 THINGS

ALL TRIPPED UP 5 THINGS THAT CAN FOIL FLYING.

BY PEG GILL

T

he pandemic pretty much clipped our wings. Once we were “free to roam about the country” again, many of us found our airport awareness and suitcase savvy plane-ly lacking. This can lead to a cargo hold’s worth of things

that'll seriously trip up travel. Here are five:

1

Cause For Alarm. Not setting a back-

2

Minute-scule Mistakes. Did you

3

up alarm for an early morning flight. ("But I set my iphone. I swear!”) Over-snooze and you will lose and miss the boat. Er, plane.

know that if you’re checking a bag (versus carrying on) you need to have it at check-in 45 minutes before your flight? That’s when the bag check “window” slams shut. Pleading with the agent will get you nowhere, certainly not to your destination! You either fly with only the clothes on your back or bag the flight.

Avoid A Hitch In Your Gate. Many flight-phobic folks seek a pre-boarding brew or calming cocktail. A bit of advice? Locate your gate, THEN locate a libation. Doing it in reverse can result in an awkward Olympic sprint, which then falls short of a winning finish. Another trip tip? Don't overindulge. That last call could cost you your boarding call.

4

Dress For Success. Wear slip-on

5

Dropped Connections. If you have to

shoes. With SOCKS! Do you really want your tender tootsies touching where strangers' filthy phalanges have? Speaking for myself and my fellow flyers, we'd rather not have a fungus among us.

connect through an unfamiliar airport, give yourself ample time. Trams between terminals are terminally rife with risk. If you stand at the wrong pickup point or are too timid to jam onto a tram, you'll have to jettison your jet plans. *This column may or may not have been inspired by a recent real-life flying fiasco.

24 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

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Industrial Ingenuity Kitchen gets do-it-yourself makeover.

N

ot many young adults would trade in all – or almost all – their spare time to work on a house, but that is exactly what Josh Garton did for five years. The young bachelor in his 20s logged countless hours during evenings and on weekends tackling a whole-home renovation while teaching himself the necessary skills to do so along the way.

The result of this ultimate do-it-yourself project speaks for itself: a fully updated home reinvigorated with a modern flair.

Bragging rights include an award-winning kitchen with an industrial-meets-rustic feel.

26 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

BY JOAN BELLINGHAUSEN | PHOTOS BY BRENDA ANDERSON

The Beginning

Soon after graduating from the University of Missouri and beginning a job as a structural engineer, Josh started looking at what a mortgage would cost compared to renting an apartment.

He decided to become a homeowner.

Josh found his house — which he describes as a treehouse — nestled on a heavily wooded one-acre lot literally on the side of a hill. The three-story house resembles an inverted pyramid with each ascending level extending out further than the level

below in a cantilevered fashion. The home has other quirky features. None of the interior walls converge at right angles while the ceilings are multi-level and feature a modified spoke system of structural ceiling beams.

Endeared by its design and unusual elements, Josh purchased the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired structure in 2016.

“I was drawn to the house because it was so unique and different,” says Josh. “Plus, I could afford it.” Then, he got to work on making the 1,700-square-foot house his own.

Room by Room

When Josh initially moved in, the 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom house had only one working toilet and one working shower — in separate bathrooms! Built in the 1970s, the house still featured remnants of that bygone era. Original pink shag carpet ran up the stairs while lime green cabinets filled the kitchen. He focused on improving the house instead of just making it livable.

“It definitely was a fixer-upper,” says Josh. “I was ready for a challenge.”

Josh has always liked working on things but had never taken on a project of this magnitude. He credits YouTube videos and tutorials on Google for arming him with the knowledge and encouragement to tackle many of the improvements himself.

He started with the bedrooms and kept moving forward one room at a time.

“I’d pick one room and update that room, and then I’d move onto the next room” he says. “You can do a lot with a shop saw and a tape measure — and a drill.”

He taught himself to be a jack of all trades. He refinished the hardwood floors as well as installed new flooring in other areas, tiled walls and floors, stained cabinets and wrapped stainless steel in a couple areas in the kitchen. He even had the gumption to design and pour concrete countertops in the bathrooms and kitchen.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 27

Collaborative Effort

The kitchen proved to be the most in-depth room to overhaul so Josh collaborated with his aunt, Brenda Anderson, who owns a Kansas City-based interior design firm — Interior Design and Elements. Brenda wanted to give Josh a masculine kitchen by incorporating natural and rustic elements juxtaposed against gleaming stainless steel to create a more modern vibe.

“I took into account that Josh had a shoestring budget, lots of energy and a desire to execute as much of the design plan as he could himself,” according to Brenda. “He needed a vision and a plan. Then he took off.”

Breathing new life into the original kitchen meant addressing some inherent shortcomings and fixing patchwork repairs from over the years. The biggest challenge involved finding a better solution to hiding a large pipe protruding from the ceiling over the sink. The existing remedy involved an unsightly large wooden board as a cover that blocked the top third of the window.

While brainstorming with Josh, Brenda tossed out the idea of using a metal valance to disguise the pipe. Ten minutes later, Josh had taken this vision, created a valance using computeraided design software and suggested stainless steel for the material. Josh incorporated cut-out hexagons to create visual interest and maximize the amount of natural light from the window while camouflaging the poorly-placed pipe.

To carry through the stainless steel elsewhere in the kitchen, Josh installed stainless steel subway tile on the walls to make up the interior, according to Brenda.

28 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

“This tiled wall helps reflect much-needed light throughout the room,” says Brenda. “It also makes the valance appear more intentional.”

To balance these reflective surfaces, the design added in select dark elements – custom black concrete countertops with a raw edge that Josh designed and created himself. The black stainless chef’s faucet, stainless steel apron sink and a sleek black exhaust hood continue the visual contrast for more of an industrial feel.

In addition, Josh added open floating shelves, made of reclaimed wood, for increased storage space. Josh also stained and installed the new cabinets — which had been ordered unfinished — to match the hand-sawn, square peg hardwood floors throughout the house.

Award Winner

The American Society of Interior Designers Missouri-West Kansas Chapter recently announced its annual Heartland Design Awards, and Josh’s kitchen was among the award winners.

Brenda’s kitchen design received the silver award in the category for kitchen remodels 300 square feet or less — a feather in the cap for both Brenda and Josh given their collective efforts.

“This project reminded me that not every good design project needs a deep pocket or a professional general contractor,” Brenda says. “Rather, Josh’s motivation and tenacity — plus some blood, sweat and tears — have made his home what it is today.”

These days, Josh gets to enjoy the fruit of his labor living in a beautiful home tailored specifically for him. “I’m happy with how it turned out. I’m glad I went through the renovation, but I will buy my next house move-in ready,” Josh says with a chuckle.

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INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 29

life

ENCOUNTERS

Kindness in CoMo

JOYCE SMITH SHARES CHILDREN’S GROVE GREATNESS.

BY OLIVIA DESMIT · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

J

oyce Smith wholeheartedly

organization is embedded throughout

Smith says. Other visual projects include

believes that a single act of

Columbia’s schools, parks and businesses.

the butterfly mural in Alley A, which

kindness can change a life.

“You never know what people

Founder Anne Deaton began

was guided by local artist Madeleine

Children’s Grove in 2012 after the Sandy

LeMieux, the new mural in Flat Branch

are going through,” Smith says.

Hook tragedy. “Kindness isn’t a tangible

Park, which was created by Adrienne

“When I moved to Columbia in 2013, I

item,” Smith says. “How do you explain

Luther, and butterfly benches. Children’s

wanted to make a difference artistically.

kindness to people?

Grove has also given away more than

Through Children’s Grove’s projects and

“I work on projects that reflect

working with unbelievably kind people, I

kindness visually,” Smith says. These

signs throughout Columbia, including

hope that I have.”

include “kindness trees” planted at

outside of public schools, businesses

schools throughout Boone County,

and residences.

Children’s Grove, which Smith is a board member of, is a 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to inspire a

butterfly benches and art murals.

“The kindness trees, which are

200 “Kindness Changes Everything” yard

School Successes

culture of kindness and support mental

butterfly magnolias, symbolize kindness

While butterfly benches and murals

and emotional wellbeing of children,

visually and a plaque beneath each

stand out visually, Children’s Grove

youth and young adults in Columbia

tree features our motto ‘A single act

volunteers also organize community

and Boone County. The volunteer-run

of kindness can change a life forever,’”

education programs focused on youth-

30 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

life

ENCOUNTERS

related mental health issues and the

efforts. Kindness Clubs exist in most of

Academy Award,” Smith says. The second

power of books to address both kindness

the middle schools and several of the

annual awards began this September.

and emotional well-being. One example

elementary schools.

is their “kindness libraries,” which

In 2019, Columbia was selected as the “nicest place in Missouri” by Reader’s

provide tangible benefits to youth in

Capturing Kindness

Columbia. “Our kindness libraries took

Last year, during the height of the

very proud of. But Smith wants to take

off right from the get-go,” Smith says.

COVID-19 pandemic, Children’s Grove

it a step further. “What if we became the

Kindness libraries involve a committee

launched their inaugural Kindness in

city of kindness?” Smith asks. “When you

of volunteers choosing books to donate

Business Awards. “We thought, ‘what

think about the kind of press that we’ve

to local schools. The committee reads

can we do as an organization during

had in the past five years — it’s not so

through children’s books that have won

COVID?’” Smith says. “We partnered

good … but it’s about looking at the city

awards for kindness and have to rate each

with the MU School of Journalism and

through a different lens. It’s almost like a

book from 1-10, 10 being the book gave

Missouri Business Alert to start the

shadow — wherever you go throughout

the reader shivers or made them cry.

Kindness in Business awards.”

the city you’re going to see visual

“We are very careful about the

Anyone doing a kind act can be

Digest — something Children’s Grove is

kindness signs.”

kindness books that we share,” she says.

nominated, Smith says. “You can

Every public school and a few of the

nominate your own company, kindness

undertaking a sculpture project near

private schools in Columbia were gifted

to youth, kindness to the public or

the current Children’s Grove project at

mini kindness libraries of these choices.

community and kindness to employees

Stephens Lake Park. “We’re going to do

“As a former school teacher, I know how

within your own company. It really

a sculpture coming out of the water,

much learning about kindness can affect

evolves within that.” Winners of the

surrounded by native plants, with a sign

children,” Smith continues.

Kindness in Business Awards are printed

that helps reflect kindness,” Smith says.

Another in-school project that

in the Missouri Business Alert. “It’s a

Currently Children’s Grove is

For a map of all the Children’s Grove

Children’s Grove founded is the

lot of publicity for these businesses

projects, or for more information, visit

Kindness Ambassador program. Through

and nonprofits — when we notified

childrensgrove.org. For a kindness yard

working with the high schools' outreach

the finalists, it was like they won the

sign, email info@childrensgrove.org

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 31

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4. Get real with them

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2. Give ‘em the runaround

5. be choosy about chews

Diet and exercise go hand-in-hand for ultimate health, so get your pet moving! Not only does it help keep their weight at a healthy level, but it also helps maintain muscle mass and cardiovascular health and improves happiness!

A lot of people don’t give much thought to their pet’s teeth, but you should! Not only can poor oral hygiene lead to bad breath and dental disease, but bacterial infections in the mouth can also lead to heart disease, premature kidney failure, and liver damage. Not up up for brushing your pet’s teeth daily? Consider incorporating a water additive with dental benefits, and regularly giving your pets bones to chew on to help improve oral health.

Also be sure to have your pet’s teeth checked at least once a year by your veterinarian.

3. Strain their brain Pets thrive on mental stimulation to keep them happy.

Bored animals can be destructive, depressed and anxious.

Keep their mind active with training, enrichment toys, socialization and interactive games to keep them occupied.

lizziandroccos.com NORTH LOCATION 1610 I-70 Drive SW Columbia, MO 65203

32 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

SOUTH LOCATION 550 East Green Meadows Columbia, MO 65201

INSIDE COLUMBIA JULY/AUGUST 2021 33

Seasonal Soups HEALTHY AND HEARTY FALL FAVORITES.

BY KIMBER DEAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

I

n my family you either love or you tolerate soup season. My chicken noodle soup is my 5-year-old daughter’s favorite meal year-round, but my

husband cannot stand too many days in a row that we have soup for dinner. I love that my three daughters enjoy soups because they are one of the easiest ways to get extra nutrients into my family’s bodies without them knowing it. I use a lot of bone broths for gut health, vegetables they would normally eat, herbs and spices for phytonutrients and micronutrients.

Herbs and spices are some of the most powerful forms of healing foods in the world, and buying them organic is so important because of the toxic load of non-organic from pesticides and herbicides.

I love the abundance of local farmers here in Columbia with fall and winter seasonal produce. I’ve made pumpkin chili with local pumpkin that I roasted and pureed myself (so much cheaper than canned pumpkin and you avoid BPA from cans). I make a lot of creamy squash soups with local acorn, butternut, hubbard or carnival squashes. I never cook with dairy, so I like to make my creamy soups and bisques with my cashew ricotta recipe from Happy Food Cookbook, shared below, or other vegan cheese sauce recipes I have created. I love making vegan, gluten free cream of mushroom soup, broccoli cheddar or tomato bisque for customers at Nourish Cafe & Market and Nourish Sedalia to give them classic favorites that are as healthy and convenient as possible.

Bisques or creamy soups are the easiest way to use up vegetables that are going to expire soon in your kitchen, plus you can usually mask the flavor for those in your home who don’t like that specific vegetable by using extra seasoning.

34 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

life

My Soup Process

HEALTH & WELLNESS

profiles when fresh versus dried herbs

When making chunky soups, I have

that need to be added in the beginning

learned that you have to pay attention

to reconstitute them and bring out the

to the water content of your produce

natural flavors.

I like that I can really modify soups for

and when you add it during the cooking process. I like to sauté certain

different diets like switching out cut-up

vegetables in the beginning to soften

squash for the beans in a chili to make

them up before adding the broth, such as

it paleo or substituting mushrooms or

mirepoix, root vegetables or mushrooms.

eggplant for the “meat” in soups to make

If I am adding meat to my soup, I like

them vegan.

to add it at the very end of the cooking

Some of my favorite sides to spice

process because meats cook fast when

up my soups are rolls, biscuits, cheesy

they boil and can get dried out very

biscuits, bread bowls or crackers. This

Kimber Dean is co-owner of Nourish Cafés

quickly. Ingredients like leafy greens I

always helps fill up my family more

in Columbia and Sedalia and the author

like to add once the broth has come to a

easily, gives the meal more textures and

of Happy Food and Happy Baking and

boil, and before I add any meats so they

makes healthy soups feel more like our

Desserts. She is trained in both culinary

have time to break down and be more

comfort-food favorites.

arts and personal nutrition. Check out her

Here are two recipes that I love to use

tender. Fresh herbs you always want to add last because they have full flavor

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

cooking show “Nourished” on Youtube for more soup and biscuit recipes.

for making my soups. Enjoy!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Yield: ~3 quarts DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

¼ cup avocado oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

In a large soup pot add avocado oil, onions, celery and carrots,

3 cups onion, diced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

and turn heat to medium-high. Sauté the veggies for 5 to 8 minutes,

2 cups celery, chopped

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

until onions and celery are translucent. Add water, sea salt, onion

2 cups carrots, chopped

1 pound chicken breast,

powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano and rosemary to the pot

9 cups filtered water ¼ cup sea salt 1 tablespoon onion powder

raw, diced 6 ounces pasta (I prefer Jovial brand)

and bring to a boil. Add chicken and pasta, bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from heat, and serve warm. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.*Recipe from the draft

1 tablespoon garlic powder

of my children’s cookbook

CASHEW RICOTTA PALEO DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

1 ½ cups raw cashews, dry 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice ¹⁄₃ cup nutritional yeast 1 teaspoon garlic salt

Preparation Time: 3 hours -1 day | Yield: ~1 pint

1 tablespoon minced dried onion ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk

Grain Free & Veganv

Soak cashews for 2 to 24 hours. Drain and rinse before use. Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender and blend very well, about 4 to 6 minutes on high. Wipe down sides when needed, you do not want chunks. Store in an airtight container. Serve cold or warm. *Recipe from Happy Food Cookbook

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 35

A V E RY

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1805 Westfall Drive | ColumbiaAppliance.com

PHOTO BY VANCE HEFLIN

life

ROBINSON'S RAMBLINGS

Gary Hunt, Mike Fleming, Forrest Rose, Greg Hunt, Mike Henderson

The Road From Hell To Nashville ONE COLUMBIA BAND’S THREE LUMINARIES.

BY JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON

I

t was a time when the biggest

closet or Shakespeare’s dirty socks. For

threat to your life on Columbia’s

good reason. The building was old, even

immediately looked up at the ceiling and

bar scene was hanging over your

back in the Age of Aquarius. It had been

wondered which implement of death

head. But darn, it was a fun music

Every time I entered Ford’s Theater, I

an auto showroom, and to dress up its

would lose its grip on the aging concrete

venue and well worth the risk to see some

dull bomb shelter interior, Ford’s Theater

ceiling and crush the woman I was

future Nashville stars.

imported ten dozen pointy heavy weapons

working up the courage to meet.

Before it became the Fieldhouse, even

of mass destruction — disguised as pool

But five nights a month, hundreds of

before a young Mizzou music major

tables and dentist chairs, lawn mowers

20-somethings jammed into this ragged

named Cheryl Crow played gigs there

and motorcycles gleaned from garages and

nightclub to hear a gaggle of house

when it was called Bullwinkle’s, the bar

trash heaps — to hang from the ceiling.

musicians who called themselves the

was named Ford’s Theater. Back then

The items were just waiting for a good

Mid-Missouri Hellband. Not sure how

the place smelled ancient, like King Tut’s

chance to mash somebody.

many of the band members sold their souls INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 37

PHOTO BY VANCE HEFLIN

Gary Hunt, Mike Fleming, Forrest Rose, Greg Hunt, Mike Henderson to the devil, but several made big marks

Loveless. His songs have been recorded

gotta play like hell.” Wonder where that

on the music world. Grammy Awards and

by Adele, Chris Stapleton, The Dixie

came from?

American Country Music Awards, and

Chicks, Kenny Rogers, Daryl Worley, Patty

songs you know the words to but never

Loveless, Travis Tritt, Trisha Yearwood,

under the stars at The Rose to listen to

realized, came from Hellband alums.

The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Soloman

the Kay Brothers and Burney Sisters, this

Burke, Marty Stuart and Randy Travis.

most venerable music venue is named

Perhaps the most prolific ex-Hellbander

Meanwhile, when you sit in a lawn chair

is Mike Henderson, who left a secure gig

In 2006, Henderson joined fellow

for former Hellbander Forrest Rose, who

with the Columbia-based blues icons, the

Hellband alum Mike Fleming to form

put an indelible stamp on this town with

Belairs, to hang his shingle in Nashville.

the SteelDrivers, fronted for two albums

his pen and his doghouse bass fiddle with

In 2018, Henderson and Chris Stapleton

by co-founder Chris Stapleton. When

the cobra head. Forrest toured with Bill

won the Grammy for best country song

Stapleton and Henderson moved on,

Monroe and was playing with the Perfect

and the American Country Music Award

Fleming and the SteelDrivers didn’t miss

Strangers the night he died.

for song of the year with their single

a beat. They won the Grammy in 2015

"Broken Halos". All told, Mike is a four-

for best bluegrass album of the year. The

Hellband wailed beneath that ceiling

time Grammy nominee and a three-

SteelDrivers appeared at Columbia’s Roots

crowded with space junk, some of our

time ACM nominee. Considered one of

N Blues N BBQ Festival in 2017, delighting

brothers and sisters weren’t ready to think

Nashville’s best slide guitarists, Henderson

a sea of “Steelheads.” Fleming plays

globally and act locally. Forrest offered an

has recorded with Martina McBride, Blake

upright bass fiddle in the band and lends

alternative: sing gravelly, act yokelly.

Shelton, Waylon Jennings, Emmylou

his voice to harmonies. Talking about their

Harris, Mark Knopfler, Albert King, Hank

Grammy-winning “Muscle Shoals” album,

Williams Jr., Johnny Lang, Guy Clark, John

the band paraphrases an old Nashvillle

Hiatt, Sting, Bo Diddley, Tim McGraw,

axiom that an artist must “serve the song.”

Lucinda Williams, Bob Seeger and Patty

“Serving the song,” they say, “means you

38 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Back at Ford’s Theater, when the

John Drake Robinson is a former director of the Missouri Division of Tourism and has driven every mile of highway in the state.

His appetite covers a wide range of subjects at johndrakerobinson.com

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INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 39

40 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Inside Columbia

flavor C O N T E N T S

42

This Lasagna's Layered With Meaningful Memories.

44

New Barbecue Joint Puts The "Bud's" In Taste Buds.

47

Don't Be Late Lapping Up This Libation

NO TURKEY JERKY

The most important part of Thanksgiving is a perfectly done moist, tender bird. Here's a tip from Chef Bobby Flay: Have a pot of hot chicken stock on your stove. Slice the breast and take the leg and thigh meat off the bone, and place it all on a platter. Just before serving, hit the meat with some hot chicken stock to revive it.

48

CURRY COURAGE How To Embrace The Indian Ingredient.

flavor

FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

All Buttered Up FALL SQUASH HOLDS FOND MEMORIES.

BY SARA FOUGERE · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

M

y dad was very generous.

He was a child during the Great Depression and the middle child

of eight kids. He always said that they were poor when he was young, but never went hungry. They used the land to grow crops and raise animals and they always shared. He took what he learned from those childhood experiences to eventually build one of the largest cattle and crop farms in the state.

He and my mom always made sure to help those in need, and those who didn’t have the same opportunities they had.

He loved to share a few acres of one of our Ray County farms with families who grew produce for markets in Kansas City.

Some of my favorite memories involve rides with him, stopping by the farms and helping pick tomatoes, melons and every squash imaginable. My kids have fond memories of their Poppy taking them to those river bottoms and helping his farm friends pick pumpkins, and then bringing some of them home.

I am so fortunate to be able to share some of the meals I make weekly.

Included is a recipe, which uses the seasonal harvest that is delicious and has amazing flavors. However, it is one my dad would need to add a steak on the side. To him it just wasn’t a meal without beef on the plate. He's been gone 8 years.

I still drive the farms in his old truck that my brothers keep running and think of how much I learned from him.

42 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

flavor

FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

Butternut Squash and Fresh Sage Lasagna INGREDIENTS

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese 12 uncooked lasagna noodles Whole butternut squash, around 3 pounds 1 large onion, chopped 3 tablespoons butter 2 minced garlic cloves ½ cup fresh chopped sage Salt and pepper 2 teaspoons minced garlic 3 tablespoons butter ½ cup flour 5 cups whole milk 1 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage

Preheat oven to 375. Spray butternut squash with cooking spray and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until skin is soft. Let cool and peel skin with a vegetable peeler or knife. Cut in chunks and remove seeds from bulb end.

Make sauce while squash is cooling. Brown garlic in butter, whisk in flour and cook for 3 minutes. Add milk and whisk in the salt and chopped sage. Whisk constantly until it comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer about 10 minutes, until thickened.

Make filling by cooking onion in butter over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Add squash chunks and

remaining filling ingredients and cook until squash is tender, about 15 minutes.

To assemble, spray a 9x13" glass dish with cooking spray. Spread ½ cup of sauce in the bottom of the pan.

Top with 3 lasagna noodles. Spread ²⁄₃ cup sauce over noodles, a third of the squash filling and some of the parmesan and mozzarella. Repeat the layers 2 more times. Top with the last 3 noodles, the remaining sauce and cheese. Cover pan tightly with foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for about 10 more minutes until top is browned. Let sit 15 minutes before cutting.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 43

flavor

FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

Autumnal Buds NEW BARBECUE RESTAURANT BLOSSOMS.

BY MADELINE EWING · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

W

ith roots in Texas

of the world. His childhood centered

and livestock, barbecue

around a cattle business run by

is in Jason Paetzold’s

his family, primarily his father and

one year ago, immediately falling in love

blood. After working

grandfather. Today, Paetzold sees himself

with downtown and the location of 304

in the food scene in Kansas City for

as continuing that family legacy in a

S. Ninth St. — formerly Pickleman’s and

over 10 years, Paetzold decided to plant

different light — one plate at a time.

Ingredient. Channeling his past, Paetzold’s

Bud’s BBQ in the heart of Missouri this

“I grew up in a part of Texas where

really fun and lively atmosphere.”

Paetzold moved to Columbia just over

menu largely reflects traditional entrees

September. This craft BBQ joint takes

barbecue is such a huge part of our

and sides from community barbecues in

classic American comfort foods and adds

culture, it’s something that we shared as

his childhood hometown.

a modern, innovative twist.

a family and with friends,” Paetzold says.

Born and raised in Hereford, Texas, Paetzold grew up in the beef capital

44 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

“The corn pudding, grits, macaroni

“It was kind of part of who we were, in

and cheese and cold pasta salad — I’m

our DNA, and I wanted to share that in a

taking those honest and true sides and

flavor

elevating them with a few different changes but staying true to that warm, southern comfort,” Paetzold says.

Old-school barbecue and family fun

tamales, topped with salsas.

“The other part that makes where I

DINING OUT

you walked in here, your first question would be, ‘How long has this place been

was born and raised so unique is the

around?’ It looks like this bar is 160 years

amazing influence of Mexican flavors,”

old, and that’s timeless to me.”

aren’t the only inspirations for Bud’s

Paetzold explains. “The term that

BBQ. The growing influence of craft

they refer to back where I’m from is

helped Paetzold put together a drink

elements in food and beverage services

‘Mexicue,’ where there is that perfect

menu that is up to par with the food.

struck a chord with Paetzold. A marriage

marriage of Mexican flavors and craft

The signature craft cocktails use simple

between tradition and invention is

with American barbecue.”

syrups smoked in the same style as the

the driving force behind Bud’s BBQ’s creative menu.

Barred Owl Bartender Berek Warby

The intentionality in Bud’s BBQ

meats, giving them that barbecue classic

doesn’t end with the meats. Paetzold

flavor profile of char and wood. Created

“

The term that they refer to back where I’m from is ‘Mexicue,’ where there is that perfect marriage of Mexican flavors and craft with American barbecue.

“What makes craft barbecue is the

wanted a carefully curated atmosphere

in small batches, they are kegged and

attention to detail that goes on behind

and drink menu to match. With small

tapped in order to ensure consistency in

the scenes,” Paetzold says. “It’s hand

batch craft cocktails on tap and wooden

quality and meet demand during high

trimming your briskets, spending 12

interiors made from a reclaimed

volume hours.

to 14 hours trying to perfect it into

160-year-old oak barn, the inside of this

something amazing. It’s the slow smoke

barbecue joint embodies an industrial

B, B and Q — Bar, Brunch and ‘Cue,’”

on the barbacoa and the blend of spices.”

vibe with a rustic edge.

Paetzold says. “This is what makes my

One of Paetzold’s favorite BBQ med-

“All of the tables in the bar were

leys is the fusion with Mexican cuisine.

built from this barn, and it really just

His menu features classic smoked meats

puts a bow around this entire concept,”

served as tacos, tostadas, enchiladas and

Paetzold says. “If you’re visiting and

“I like to say this place is equal parts

concept so completely different from your typical craft barbecue.”

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 45

T H E

B A N K

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No matter how you choose to bank, The Bank of Missouri is here for you. Get started at BANKOFMISSOURI.COM.

46 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

O F

flavor

COCKTAIL

Nothing To Shrub At THE APPEAL OF AN AUTUMNAL APERITIF.

BY MELANIE LISING · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

I

crafted this cocktail to be the perfect balance of sweet, tart and warm as a perfect intro-to-fall drink. It combines the sweetness of Demerara

syrup countered by the tart bite of muddled lemon and blackberries and our house-made basil-pear shrub, while our choice bourbon warms the soul.

The name is half a tribute to another popular bourbon-based cocktail I created for Sycamore called “It’s never too early” as well as the fact that I am a procrastinator, oftentimes waiting until the last minute to get things done.

Melanie Lising is a bartender at Sycamore in Columbia.

Better late than never INGREDIENTS • 2 ounces of bourbon of choice • 1 ounce basil-pear shrub • ½ ounce Demerara syrup (Demerara syrup - Boil equal parts demerara sugar and water until sugar dissolves. Let cool.)

• Garnish of blackberries and lemon wedges

BASIL-PEAR SHRUB • 2 pears, cubed • ½ cup chopped basil (lightly packed) • ¼ cup sugar • ¼ cup water • Bring to a boil, let cool, strain liquid and press the fruit through the strainer. Divide the liquid in half and add one part rice wine vinegar to 2 parts basil-pear syrup.

DIRECTIONS Use any type of cocktail glass you’d like to assemble. First muddle two blackberries and a lemon wedge, pour in the cocktail, add ice and stir. Serve up or on the rocks (I prefer up) and enjoy!

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 47

Curry Up And Enjoy THREE TAKES ON TRADITIONAL INDIAN FARE.

BY FOOD EDITOR BROOK HARLAN • PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

C

add different ingredients and even difjust to name a few. A curry in one region urry is not a single flavor, nor is ferent meat to finish with multiple curry could have the same name and be comit a single ingredient (powder, dishes. The included recipes are written pletely different from a curry of the same paste or leaves). Indian curry can for chicken, but could easily be switched name in another region. be any sauce with spice. Each region, out for beef, shrimp, lamb or pork. AdThis article is only slightly addressing state and family has a different curry. just the cooking times as needed (shorter Indian curry dishes; there are so many I Some things may be curries and you with shrimp, longer with the rest). could spend the next 10 years of articles don’t even know it. It is not always in writing about them. I am a middle-aged the name — Vindaloo, Korma, Butter white guy in the Midwest, so this is not a Chicken (Murgh Makhani) and Biryani traditional recipe. I wanted to doPatterson someare allStyled curry dishes.

Depending on which Spice is what separates a curry dish from

by Stephanie Lubinski | Photos

by L.G. thing that had a base start for a curry, curry dish you are eating and where you another stew. There are a few main that could then be split and have differare eating it, you might have it with rice, spices, and blends, but so many more to ent endings. One of my favorite things roti or naan. add or not depending on what regional about getting Indian food is the ability to Indian cuisine is only one of many flavor you want to cook from. If possible, try other dishes at the table. This allows that have curry dishes — Vietnam, whole or fresh is the way to go. It will you to easily start in one pan, and by Thailand, Malaysia, China, Jamaica, have a much better flavor, but will need doubling or tripling the recipe, split it up, Japan, all have some type of curry dish, time to cook in the sauce and soften to

SPICE

/InsideColumbia.net

48 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

puree well. Cumin, coriander, mustard, whole clove (technically a dried flower bud) and cardamom seeds add a very distinct flavor. If possible, use the whole spices and not powder. Fresh ginger, garlic and if you can find it, turmeric, also help make the base of the sauce. Fresh turmeric has become more prevalent in grocery stores, but if you are not able to find it, the dried powder will work as well. The turmeric has a bitter and earthy flavor and adds an abundance of yellow-orange color. Garam Masala is a mixture of spice, some redundant from the previous list, but with other spices in a smaller amount, typically containing: cinnamon, peppercorns, cardamom, mace, nutmeg, coriander, clove, and mustard, typically toasted then blended. This is great for seasoning the meat or adjusting at the end.

FILLER

Not all curry dishes have extra vegetables along with the meat in the sauce since the base of the sauce is predominantly pureed vegetables. Tomatoes usually top the list, followed by onions, peppers, spinach, potatoes, eggplant and okra. You can add whatever you want — in-season vegetables are always an easy way to go.

MEAT

While meat does not have to be added to a dish (many curry dishes cooked at home are vegetable-based) it is very typical to find as an option in a restaurant. This recipe makes it very easy to start with one base that has been doubled or tripled (curry freezes and reheats very well) and split off into multiple types of curry. Chicken breast and thigh will typically cook fully and become tender in 25 to 30 minutes, while seafood may take a shorter amount of time.

Beef, pork and lamb may take a little bit longer, depending on the cut you are using.

The meat will become tough before starting to break down and become tender. Just be patient, add a little more water if the mixture is becoming thick, and wait until your desired tenderness.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 49

flavor

COOKING WITH BROOK

CHICKEN CURRY BASE SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS 3 to 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 4 to 6 black peppercorns ¼ teaspoon yellow mustard seeds ¼ teaspoon whole coriander seeds ¼ teaspoon whole cloves ¼ teaspoon cardamom seeds ¼ teaspoon whole cumin seeds 1 medium red onion, diced 4 to 5 garlic cloves 3 to 4 tablespoons roughly chopped ginger 4 to 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon Garam Masala 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional) DIRECTIONS Mix and marinate chicken with the vegetable oil, salt, garam masala and turmeric in a bowl, then brown in a pan and set aside. Combine all ingredients for the sauce into a pan on the stove. It should be close to correct thickness when oil starts to separate at the edges of the pan. Transfer to a tall-sided pan and puree, add back to the sauté pan, and add browned chicken. Cook until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce thickens too quickly and the chicken is not tender, add a little bit of water at a time until the chicken is done. I use ½ to ¾ cup cooked basmati rice per person for serving.

BUTTER CHICKEN

28-ounce can of whole or diced tomatoes 4 ounces butter 4 to 6 ounces cream Add tomatoes, butter and cream after adding ginger and garlic.

50 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

COCONUT CURRY

1 12-ounce can coconut milk ½ cup water or vegetable stock Add coconut milk and water after adding ginger and garlic.

KORMA

1 cup yogurt 3 to 4 ounces cream ¾ cup cashews, almonds, peanuts, or combination ½ to ¾ cup raisins after pureeing Add yogurt, cream and nuts after adding ginger and garlic. Add raisins in with the chicken.

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Book your fall board meeting or holiday party now!

(573) 875-7000 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 51

MONEY MANAGEMENT MADE MANAGEABLE When you open an account with Central Bank, you get more —including all the tools and technology you need to move, manage and maximize your money. And while you’ve got the power of the bank in your pocket, you also have a local branch in your community. So whether you need to do a quick check on your funds or discuss your financial journey with a team member, we do banking better.

Plan your financial journey with us today.

Visit any location or apply online at centralbank.net.

52 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Member FDIC

PROSPERU PARTNERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: CMCA, TRUE NORTH & JOB POINT At Central Bank, we have strong mid-Missouri ties that help us provide the people of our community with opportunities for financial success — however they define it. One of the ways we help people reach their goals is through ProsperU, a unique program focused on making comprehensive financial education more accessible. As a part of ProsperU, we proudly partner with a variety of organizations that help us expand our community reach so individuals of all ages, statuses, income levels and more can learn how to build a successful financial life. Because at Central Bank, we know that stronger individuals make for a stronger community.

PARTNERSHIPS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE Some of the organizations we work with include Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA), True North and Job Point.

BRIDGE AT CENTRAL MISSOURI COMMUNITY ACTION ProsperU is proud to play a role in CMCA’s BRIDGE program, which works with families living in poverty who have children in kindergarten through second grade to “bridge” the gap between formal education and the real-life situations people in the community sometimes face. The program improves the school experience for students, their families and educators, providing academic, resource and advocacy support, parent events, positive relationship building and more.

As a part of the program, ProsperU hosts financial series that are “usually 4-5 sessions that go over basic budgeting, debt management, credit repair, stretching families’ food budgets and home buying.” The goal for each financial series is to help lift these families out of poverty and move them towards their financial goals.

TRUE NORTH OF COLUMBIA True North is a Columbia-based organization that helps empower victims of domestic and sexual violence to enable the healing process and help them begin the journey of regaining control of their lives. Their goal is

to “provide all victims with safe housing, advocacy and support,” which includes referrals to our ProsperU program. Many of the women the organization serves have to restart their lives from the ground up, so our one-on-one financial sessions can help lay a healthy foundation for a successful future.

YOUTHBUILD AT JOB POINT Finally, Job Point is an employment center that offers YouthBuild, a program whose mission is “to empower the underserved and voiceless by way of education and developing self-awareness and worth.” Through YouthBuild, individuals ages 16-24 — often from unique family structures and/or broken school systems — are able to “reclaim their education, gain job skills, and become leaders in their communities, while building houses or helping improve local infrastructure.” Our ProsperU professionals teach a financial literacy class within this program every week to help students build upon the job and life skills YouthBuild focuses on and to help set them up for a bright financial future.

Central Bank is proud to partner with organizations like CMCA, True North and Job Point that support and uplift people of all ages across the community. To find out more about how ProsperU and our partnerships are changing lives in our community, check us out at centralbank.net/prosperu or feel free to reach out to us at 573-817-8900.

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By Olivia DeSmit | Photos by L.G. Patterson

Take advantage of Mid-Missouri’s sites & sights.

I

t seems like every year the leaves are only *just* right for

Whether you’re a rough-it-in-the-woods type or an RV owner,

about a week. They’re either not quite turned, or they’re

there are plenty of campgrounds in mid-Missouri to get your

brown. It can be so easy to miss that sweet spot.

outdoor on. If you have kids and packing up the car to go to a

To take full advantage of the sporadic nature of fall colors,

campsite sounds like a lot — we get it! — consider setting up a

consider going camping. Instead of simply driving around

campsite in your backyard. Go all out with s’mores ingredients

or taking a short walk through local trails, you can spend the

(we have a few new recipes below!), pull out the cozy sleeping

amount of time that nature truly needs to be appreciated.

bags and tell plenty of scary ghost stories.

And, because you don’t have to book somewhere to stay in

No matter how you choose to enjoy the beautiful weather

advance, you can pack up and hit the trail whenever Mother

and scenery this fall, one thing’s for certain: The memories will

Nature decides it wants to shine.

be unmatched.

Finger lakes state park Columbia

J

ust on the outskirts of Columbia, Finger Lakes offers a peaceful nature getaway without getting too far from home. One of the most popular attractions of Finger Lakes is its aquatic activities. Canoes, paddleboards and kayaks are available for rent until November 15. Of course you can bring your own boat, too and launch at the boat ramp.

Fishing permits are required and limits apply, so check their website on the Missouri State Parks page for information on which fish to catch and release, and which you can keep.

For the more rough-and-ready type, there are designated trails for mountain biking and off-road recreational vehicles (ORVs). If one afternoon doesn’t

seem like enough time to go kayaking, fishing and four-wheeling, don’t fret.

Finger Lakes has a great campground, with both basic and electric sites, and a bathroom with showers are open until October 31. Campsite reservation prices are similar to most Missouri State parks at $13 for a basic site during on-season and $23 for an electric site.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 55

Camdenton

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

W

ith 14 trails, there’s a hike for everyone at Ha Ha Tonka; from a somewhat leisurely .9-mile Acorn Trail to Turkey Pen Hallow, a 6.5-mile trail with a designated camping area for groups larger than seven. Other activities include fishing, boating, swimming and picnicking.

But of course, the most wellknown attraction of Ha Ha Tonka is the castle ruins. While the ruins look like they are hundreds of years old, construction actually began in the early 1900s.

According to Missouri State Parks, Robert Snyder, a selfmade businessman, purchased Ha Ha Tonka Lake and Spring in 1904 and commissioned builders from Europe to begin work on the castle, but died in 1906 from one of the first car accidents in Missouri. After his death, his sons continued work on the castle and it was completed in 1920. Shortly after one of his sons began living in the castle, lawsuits around the right to the land bankrupted the Snyder family and the castle was opened as a hotel in lodge. A fire in 1942 destroyed the building, and the state purchased the property in the 1970s.

You can’t camp within Ha Ha Tonka State Park, but the Lake of the Ozarks State Park is only a 26-minute drive and has plenty of camping options for everyone.

56 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Hammock

Heaven So you’ve seen pictures of hikers all cozy in their hammocks in the woods and you went and bought a hammock you found for $20. Not so fast. To ensure a truly enjoyable hammock experience, you’ll want to put in a little more forethought.

If you want to hammock with a partner, make sure to purchase a double hammock. No, you can’t squeeze into a single — even if you’re both slight!

If you’re considering using a hammock instead of a tent to sleep in, just be aware that hammocks tend to be quite colder. All of your body is exposed to air versus in a tent where your back gets some of that retained ground heat.

Camping and outdoor stores sell underquilts, which are sort of like sleeping bags, but for the outside of the hammock. In addition, be sure to bring an extra warm sleeping bag.

Invest in a 360-degree bug net. You’ll want it to completely cover the entire hammock, so no pesky mosquitoes get behind your back.

Even if you checked the weather forecast prior to making your trek, a sudden downpour is always a possibility. Pack a light rain tarp just in case.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 57

Kaiser Lake of the Ozarks State Park

I

f you’ve lived in mid-Missouri for any number of years, chances are you’ve been to “The lake” as locals call it. But, if you don’t have a lake house, it can be hard to find rentals, not to mention expensive. For a more natural take on a weekend at the lake, check out the Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Hike, bike, swim, fish, boat and camp.

Thirteen trails, including a hidden springs trail and several glade trails, offer distances between less than a mile and more than nine miles. Unlike most campsites at Missouri State Parks, the Lake of the Ozarks has what they call outpost cabins, with electricity, air conditioning and actual beds (woohoo!). There are eight available

for reservation and cost $50 per night Monday through Thursday and $55 on weekend nights. If you’re looking to be a trendsetter, two yurts offer the perfect combination of rustic and relaxing.

With a microwave, air conditioning and electricity, rent them for the same price as the outpost cabins. But, be warned, neither the cabins nor yurts have running water.

Of course, since this park is called Lake of the Ozarks, there are plenty of water activities, too. A fishing dock, three boat launch spots and during the summer, swimming and cave tours offer an Ozark oasis.

Jefferson City Mari Osa Delta Campgrounds

W

hat if you’d rather park your RV, grab some grub and sit by the water? Mari Osa Delta in Jefferson City offers the perfect combination of comfort and camp vibes. With sewer, water and electric hookups available, a camp store with essentials and a dock and boat ramp complete the experience.

There are 28 sites available and fishing is available both in the Osage and Maries rivers. Restrooms with showers and laundry facilities can make longer stays comfortable, too.

58 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Camp-anions Tips for taking your pet with you.

If you’re looking for even more fun, bring a furry friend with on your camping adventure.

Of course, there are a few extra things you’ll need to pack to keep your hound happy.

Pack dog food in a compact travel container that is air-tight.

Bring a collapsible food and water bowl for light packing.

Bring along a camp mat or travel cot/bed to keep your canine comfortable.

A long line leash is an essential for once you get to your campsite, but don’t forget the regular collars and leashes, too.

A LED light-up collar is a great nighttime accessory that will enable you to see your perky pet right away.

Pet wipes enable easy clean-up in case you decide to let your camp-anion taste test your new s’mores combo.

And of course, the less fun side of bringing a pet is the waste.

Bring waste bags and if your campsite doesn’t have garbage cans, bring a large gallon zip lock bag to trap stinky smells.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 59

S’more Fun Sure, the basic Hershey's milk chocolate, marshmallow and graham cracker s’more is nothing to shake a stick at, pun intended. But, what if we told you by including a few extra simple ingredients, you can create gustatory greatness?

Try some — or all — of the s’more variations below.

PB&C

What goes better than peanut butter and chocolate? If you’re on a long hike in warmer weather, bring regular peanut butter to smear on your graham. But, if it’s colder, might we suggest a Reeses peanut butter cup in place of chocolate? You can thank us later.

Fruit Fantasy

If you’re bringing peanut butter, you might as well bring jelly, right? Why not try it atop your graham cracker — the tart, fruity taste marries perfectly with a slightly burnt marshmallow.

Choc-aholic

Need more chocolate than the measly three Hershey’s squares?

Try using chocolate flavored graham crackers in place of regular.

If you’re really craving some cocoa, use dark chocolate on your s’more, too.

Salty&Sweet

Hear us out: Candied bacon is the perfect combination of sweet and salty, and atop a s’more it elevates this campfire classic to gourmet goodness. Plus, you can use any extra bacon for breakfast in the morning!

The Elvis

A classic flavor combination. Peanut butter, bacon and bananas combined atop a s’more would do The King proud.

Mint Madness

If you think York peppermint patties taste like toothpaste, this isn’t the one for you. Create a peppermint s’more by using a peppermint patty as the chocolate base — just make sure to smush your s’more before eating to spread the patty perfectly.

INSIDECOLUMBIA COLUMBIAOCTOER/NOVEMBER OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 60 INSIDE 2021 60

THINGS EVERY COLUMBIAN MUST DO

BY OLIVIA DESMIT • PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

T

here are so many things that make Columbia a wonderful place to live and work — certainly more than 10, but if we listed out all the things you should do in Columbia, well, we would fill decades worth of magazines (see what we did there?).

Feel free to disagree with our list, but if you haven’t done one of the below things, just trust us and try it out. There is just something special about the energy at a University of Missouri football game and something awe-inspiring about the Big Tree. Better yet, when you do head to these local favorites, snap a pic and tag us.

We can’t wait to see your experiences!

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 61

Attend an MU football game Since 1926, Faurot Field has hosted countless Mizzou

a tailgate beforehand. Visiting with friends and family is

football games — and even more fans. While there have

one of the biggest parts of the experience, after all! When

been notable changes, such as the new South End Zone

attending a game, don’t forget that only clear bags and

complex, since its debut, some things haven’t changed,

purses are allowed — you can find some really cute ones

one being the school’s spirit.

at local shops! — and no outside food or drinks are al-

But, even if you didn’t attend Mizzou, if you’re in Columbia, you have to attend at least one football game

lowed, with the exception of a sealed water bottle.

And, don’t forget to wear your black and gold. M-I-Z!

and if you want to sweeten the experience, host or attend

Shoot pool at Booches

Sure, the burgers at Booches make everyone’s must-eat

lists, and the bowl of red is something unique only to this spot on Ninth Street. But, if you’ve only been for burgers and chips (no fries!), you’re missing out. Stay a little longer, grab a drink and hit the green (tables).

Booches is home to the only actual billiards table in town — billiards tables are a little over 9 feet while pool tables are closer to 7 feet, among other rule and ball differences. It also boasts eight pool tables and two snooker tables, which are over a century old. If you’ve never heard of snooker, it may at first glance look similar to pool, but the only notable similarity is the number of pockets in the table. Want to learn more? Take a cue from the University and try the Missouri Method and get your hands, uh, chalky?

62 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Look up at the Big Tree The Big Tree has been all over local news in the past year

and a half, standing tall against graffiti, lightning strikes and fires. While this beautiful Bur Oak is not in the prime of its life, it is likely to still outlive most of us. Estimated between 300 and 400 years old, it’s the largest Bur Oak tree in the state and is located just outside city limits in McBaine.

There is room to pull over and park near the tree, but take care when walking as heavy foot traffic has compacted the dirt around its roots, which can negatively impact its longevity. We suggest taking sunset photos from a little further back anyway, to capture the majesty of this mighty force of nature.

Go to jazz night at Murry’s While Murry’s recently changed ownership hands from Bill Sheals and Gary Moore, who opened the restaurant in 1985 to long-time Murry’s manager Angie Sampson, former MFA Oil CEO Mark Fenner and Sarah and Jess Lark, many things will not change. And that’s the way Columbia restaurant-goers and jazz lovers alike want it to be. For more than 30 years, Murry’s has been dishing up delicious, no-frill favorites like Brock’s Pepper Rings and the surprisingly affordable steak sandwich, but one of the main reasons people visit Murry’s in the evenings is for the spot’s romantic-yet-eclectic atmosphere.

Since the ‘80s, jazz music has been an essential part of this Green Meadows joint, with solo piano performances Monday through Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m. with their “unofficial” house performer Tom Andes packing the house on Mondays and Wednesdays. Local favorite Leighton Rhoden performs Tuesday and Thursdays. But Saturday nights, Andes leads a jazz trio late into the night — and early morning — from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Some things in Columbia will never change, and one is Murry’s long-standing motto: Keep it simple and make it good.

Meander at the North Village Arts District First Fridays

Like many of the activities in this list, First Fridays were temporarily paused due to COVID-19, but are back full-force, featuring local artists on the first Friday of each month. Hosted within several local galleries, shops and restaurants — and underneath them in the “catacombs” — this festival-esque event is the perfect combination of fun and funk.

The free event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. with a long list of participating businesses including Fretboard Coffee, Café Berlin, Artlandish Gallery, Orr Street Studios and the Sager Braudis Gallery. But instead of picking a few favorite places, or new spots to try, we recommend just showing up and strolling. Food and drinks are provided, but you may want to bring an extra large bag in case you end up purchasing some local art — trust us, navigating the catacombs with a handful of purchases isn’t as easy as it sounds.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 63

Hear a performance at Pierpont

The Pierpont General Store’s pandemic patio project is a sound for sore ears. The café and bar, newly opened last fall, boasts a list of local live music performers, in addition to cocktails and eats, of course. While the café and bar was planned well before COVID, its debut during the pandemic attracted mid-Missourians who were looking for something to do outside of city limits.

Every week on Saturdays — and sometimes extra days, just check their Facebook page — performers such as the Norm Ruebling Band, Flood Brothers and Lacey Burrell perform outside. The venue’s outdoor fire pit enables use through the fall, so on chillier days just cozy up with a cocktail and coat and relish in the ability to enjoy live music once more.

Make a road trip to Rocheport

So you’ve made day trips to the St. Louis Zoo or the Kansas City Chiefs Stadium.

What if we told you there is a destination much closer to Columbia that’s just oozing charm. Rocheport, just 14 miles outside of CoMo, boasts adorable attractions, cute cottages and delicious bites.

For dining, the Les Bourgeois Bistro, Meriwether Café and Bike Shop and Rocheport General Store all have superb options. Downtown Rocheport boasts shops such as Art Off The Trail, Stockton Mercantile and Bee’s Knees Boutique with a wide range of offerings from antiques to small gifts. For an overnight getaway, locally owned and operated inns, such as the Mount Nebo Inn, are perfect for a couple’s retreat or girls’ weekend. Speaking of girls’ weekend, you won’t want to miss the winery’s A Frame, located on the same property as the Bistro. It’s open through October and overlooks the scenic Missouri River.

64 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Do some spelunking at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park While cave tours at Devil’s Icebox are still closed to protect

the bats, you can still do some cave exploring at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. Just the descent into the entrance of the Devil’s Icebox is an adventure, with steep stairs and a rapid temperature drop. Be sure to bring proper footgear, a flashlight and jacket. If it’s a warmer fall day, the hike to the caves — both Connor’s and Devil’s Icebox — will make the cooler cave temperatures welcome.

Meet the Missouri River This stop is a three-in-one: Access the 240-mile Katy Trail

(the MKT trail runs through Columbia for a total of 8.9 miles and meets with The Katy Trail at mile marker 169.9, near McBaine) at Cooper’s Landing. Whether you want to walk, jog or bike the Katy Trail, one thing’s for sure: there’s plenty of it! Cooper’s Landing, which is located at mile 163.5 of The Katy Trail, boasts a marina, campground, live music and food trucks. Both food trucks and performances vary each week and the schedules can be found on their website. Food trucks could include El Oso, Lilly’s Cantina, Gina’s Vegan A Go Go, Billy Hinson’s Old School BBQ and more, and local bands such as The Bel Airs and Flyover Country have performed in the past.

Not far from Cooper’s Landing lies Boathenge. Even if you’ve seen photos of this art display, it’s definitely worth seeing in person. According to the official website, the boats were placed in the late ‘90s and like Stonehenge are 13 feet tall, 6 feet wide and 3 feet deep. The diameter of the circle they form is also equivalent to that of Stonehenge. Of course, there are some notable differences that we suggest you discover yourself.

Lounge at Logboat Brewery

A staple of Columbia’s brewery scene since 2014, Logboat isn’t just for poolside sipping in the summer. In fact, their “park” is best enjoyed once the weather gets a little cooler. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket and spend time just sipping and shooting the breeze with friends and family.

BONUS: their space is pet friendly, so bring the pooches, too! Plus, Ozark Mwountain Biscuit Co.’s new brick and mortar is just next door, so once you feel a bit peaked (or perhaps had one too many Shipheads) a southernstyle biscuit sandwich is just waiting for you. Of course, the brewery hosts food trucks on certain dates, too.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 65

MID-MISSOURI NATIVES FIND SONGFUL SUCCESS IN NASHVILLE.

BY BRITTANY RUESS

F

or hopeful country artists, Nashville is the place to make or break a career. For several mid-Missouri natives, Nashville was the next step in their natural progression as a singer,

songwriter, and musician. From performing on countless stages in Music City to strumming guitar strings, and pulling heartstrings on their albums, these mid-Missouri natives are living their country music dreams.

66 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

STANDS AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN LATEST SINGLE Raised in the small town of Garden City, Mo.,

Farr, who signed with the record label in March

music always surrounded Tyler Farr. His parents

2019, said. “I’ve always looked up to Jason and

were both singers, and by middle school, he joined

enjoyed his music. For a guy I look up to to

choir and was taking classical voice lessons.

appreciate my music as much as I do his,

“It was already there in front of me and it was something that came natural to me,” Farr said.

At 16, his mother married DeWayne Phillips, the

I was honored.”

Earlier this year, Farr released “Cover Girl,” an empowering single

guitarist of country music legend George Jones.

that speaks out against domestic

When teenage Farr was invited to join Phillips on

violence. Farr, who always has

Jones’ U.S. tour, he jumped on the opportunity.

songwriting on his mind, was in

Hitting the road with the band and watching

an Atlanta airport when he saw

Jones perform every night changed Farr’s life

a Cover Girl ad and the words “Cover Girl”

forever and inspired him to become a country

stood out as a potential song idea. Months later

music artist.

when he sat down with fellow songwriters, he

“That’s when I fell in love with country (music),” he says.

Farr said making the jump to Nashville wasn’t

brought up the words, “Cover Girl,” and how it could turn into a song.

That’s when he and his fellow songwriters

easy, but he’s always been an adventurous person

sparked a conversation about domestic violence

who doesn’t mind taking risks.

and realized they all had been touched by it in

“I literally packed up and just moved there,”

some way. For Farr, he witnessed the effects

he said. “You have to have the personality for it.

of domestic violence when he worked for

Some people would say, ‘It’s too dangerous or

a rehabilitation company serving youth

risky,’ but not for me. It was kind of scary, but you

who were suffering from trauma, affect

don’t hit home runs by bunting every time you get

disorder, and domestic violence.

up to the plate.”

Farr’s debut album, Redneck Crazy, which

“‘Cover Girl’ is me talking to a woman who I may or may not know and saying

was released in 2013, was No. 2 on the Billboard

get out of there, you’re not in a good

Country Albums Chart and No. 5 on the Billboard

situation,” Farr said. “How many women

Top 200. Two songs on the album, “Redneck

do you pass who you don’t know who are

Crazy” and “Whiskey in My Water,” were back-

going through domestic violence in their

to-back No. 1 singles. “Whiskey in My Water” was

lives? My hope for the song is to give

also Farr’s first No. 1 hit as a songwriter.

women out there some healing, some

His next album, Suffer In Peace, debuted in

strength, and some hope, and let them

the Top 5 on both the Billboard Top 200 Albums

know they’re not alone. The song is

and Billboard Country Albums Charts. Farr is

me saying this isn’t howit’s

the only solo male country artist to have his first

supposed to be and you can

two albums debut in the Top 5 in the past decade.

do better.”

With so much success, Farr was nominated for the

Farr and his wife, Hannah,

2014 Music Row “Breakthrough Artist of the Year”

welcomed their first child, Hollis

and toured with Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia

Caroline Farr, on January 27. Being a

Line, Brantley Gilbert, Luke Combs and Lee Brice.

father has turned Farr into a “big old pile

Touring with Jason Aldean for a couple years, the two became fast friends, bonding over country music, hunting and other similar interests. When hanging out at Aldean’s home one evening, the Photo credit: Chase Lauer

country music star approached Farr with the idea

of mush,” he said, and translated into his songwriting.

“I’m writing some dad songs,” he said. “I try to write real songs for real people.”

In August, Farr said he was looking forward to

of signing him to Aldean’s Night Train Records/

taking “Cover Girl” to radio and releasing a new

BBR Music Group.

album created during the COVID-19 pandemic

“I thought he was saying it jokingly and I called him later and asked if he was serious about it,”

lockdown. Above all else, Farr is most excited and concerned about watching his daughter grow up.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 67

STAYS TRUE TO HERSELF, LOVE FOR CLASSIC COUNTRY and built a solid reputation as a classic

From an early age, it was clear that Carissa

“After losing my father from cancer, my

Biele was meant to be on stage. Growing up

attitude changed because it’s never the right

country artist. This year, she’s received two

in Fulton, Missouri, Biele started performing

time, you just have to do it,” she said. “I have

nominations for the Josie Music Awards, the

as a young child and by age 11, she was a

to live in faith, not fear, and live life to the

largest independent artist award show that

local studio dancer and a star in children’s

fullest. I moved and haven’t looked back.”

celebrates music from all genres. Biele is up

community musical theatre.

In Nashville, Biele’s voice — boasting a

for Modern Female Artist of the Year and

natural twang and country sound — was

Female Music Video of the Year for her song,

creative person, finding any opportunity to

welcomed on many stages. Her love of classic

“Crazy ‘Bout You Baby.”

sing, dance, or act. In her youth, Biele stayed

country is woven through her 13-song album,

vigilant in pursuing anything she could

“Karma,” which shows off Biele’s musical

as she opened up about her experience

audition for, including plays at Westminster

range and emotional depth in songwriting.

caring for her mother, who was diagnosed

Since landing in Music City, Biele has

with dementia. She recently put her song,

Biele said she was always an artsy and

College and William Woods University.

Biele has been an inspiration to her fans

stayed true to herself by pursuing her favorite

“Strong Like the Whiskey” to a homemade

with a degree in broadcast journalism and

style of music — classic country. Her soulful

video of her and her mother singing and

losing her father to cancer. On the day he

sound went against the country-pop trend

dancing in the memory care unit where her

died, Biele said she kept hearing a song in her

that has been on the rise for years.

mother lives.

Her dream chase began after graduating

head and wrote it down. She took the song to a fellow songwriter, asked for his advice, and they worked together on finishing the song.

“Writing that song gave me confidence in my songwriting and country tone of voice,” she said.

Biele spent the next few years performing throughout Missouri, Nashville, Memphis and several southern states. When she wasn’t singing on stage, Beile was attending classes for her masters degree and used her natural talent to add other exciting experiences to her impressive resume.

Not a stranger to hard work, Biele has been a news anchor for KRCG 13 and traveling production assistant for the drag-racing TV series "PINKS All Out." No matter her day job, Biele’s passion for making music never stifled.

Biele recorded her first album, "Easier Said Than Done", in Nashville and released it in March 2013.

Biele was growing her music Photo credit: HunterHart Photo

repertoire when she was offered the position of traveling reporter for the International Hot Rod Association.

Living in Nashville was more advantageous for the job and also presented the opportunity for Biele to officially move to Music City, which she did about nine months after releasing "Easier Said Than Done."

68 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

“It has been very difficult and I have second guessed who I am and who I should be in the seven years I’ve been here,” she said.

In more recent years, Biele said she noticed more tourists seeking the classic country sound. She said she’s glad she “stuck to her guns”

At about 45 seconds into the video, emotional images appear on screen with the words: “So everytime I start to doubt myself, I listen to this song. I’m reminded that I will get my mother and I through this.”

In addition to her music, Biele is a dementia coach and advocate for Alzheimer’s Awareness and cancer. Throughout her career, Biele said she’s learned to always stay true to herself and do what she loves most.

“I’m doing a lot of this for myself and wherever it goes, I’m less worried about it,” she said. “Life is short and you have to do what makes you happy.”

Photo provided by Halle Kearns

FINDS HER VOICE IN BOTH FUN, EMOTIONAL SONGWRITING song most embraced by her fans.

At 16, Halle Kearns knew she would

moved to Nashville and lived with a family

someday sing on the stages of Nashville. But

friend experiencing health problems.

first, the Columbia native had to gain some

Kearns helped care for the family friend

know how to express it,” Kearns says. “I

experience performing in front of a crowd

while getting her foot in the door as a

write songs for people and I put songs to

and confront her stage fright. After she

country artist.

melodies that they might not be able to do

graduated from Rock Bridge High School

Since then, Kearns’ music career has taken

“They may have felt an emotion but didn’t

for themselves.”

in 2015, many of Kearns’ classmates were

off and she’s become known as one of the

Kearns’ new album, yet to be named

heading to college, but she knew that wasn’t

most exciting young artists in Nashville.

or released, is an honest reflection of her

the route for her.

She’s opened for Trace Adkins and Eli

journey of self-love and discovery. The song,

Young Band, her “Finally” EP hit 3.8 million

“Are You OK?” is a reminder for Kearns to

father, Kevin, moved to Kansas City and

streams on Spotify and reached No. 7 on the

check in on herself like she does with the

recommended she play shows there before

iTunes country charts, and she’s preparing

loved ones in her life.

making the move to Music City.

to release a new album later this year or

Around the same time, Kearns’

She did just that, playing about 300 shows mostly in Missouri and Kansas with a few

sometime in early 2022.

Kearns’ songs before those on her new

“I wear my heart on my sleeve in this album and it has a journal-entry vibe,” she says.

Kearns marked a major milestone this

in Texas. Kearns performed at restaurants,

album, such as “Pick Me Up,” “I Drink

coffee shops, theaters and anywhere she

Whiskey,” “Finally,” and “Plans,” all fall

September when she returned to her

could get permission to play. Playing

under feel-good music that would make

hometown to play at the Roots N Blues

those hundreds of shows did ease Kearns’

anyone want to roll down the windows and

music festival. Her hopes for the future

stage fright because she was able to make

crank up the turn dial. Her latest single,

include playing at the Grand Ole Opry,

mistakes, learn from them and dissolve that

“Nothing Left” is unlike her previous songs,

joining a tour, and, of course, continuing to

frightful feeling, setting her up for greater

showing a more personal and emotional side

build upon her music by writing her most

success once she hit the Nashville stages.

of Kearns.

authentic songs.

“I never know exactly what’s next,” she

“Not all artists have the same path, but

Describing herself as a motherly and

this was the best one for me,” Kearns said.

nurturing person, Kearns said the song is

says. “What I think and envision, doesn’t

the most vulnerable she’s been in her music.

always turn out. I just have to let go, keep

to Nashville. Playing there felt natural for

Because the song is incredibly authentic and

my head down, work hard, let it play out

Kearns and by the next year, she

relatable, “Nothing Left” has also been the

and pray.”

In 2018, she started taking consistent trips

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 69

Photo Credit: Alysse Gafkjen

EXCELS AT CHILDHOOD DREAM For Kassi Ashton, there was no road filled

whether it be in beauty pageants, musical

complicated relationship with. “I think

with twists and turns to get to her music

theatre, choir or the Walmart checkout line.”

if someone has a romantic view of where

career. “As soon as I realized I could pick a

Around age 15, Ashton began writing her

they come from, that’s wonderful,” Ashton

career, I chose being an artist, absolutely no

own music and her passion grew from there.

says. “I have tiny bits of that, but mostly,

debating,” she says.

Although Ashton didn’t initially believe

my relationship is a double-edged sword.”

college was the right choice for her, she

One of Ashton’s top songs titled “California,

or backup plan. I knew I could take on

attended Belmont University in Nashville,

Missouri” reflects this. “I knew that there

Nashville for that simple reason alone. I

where she majored in commercial voice and

had to be a million more people who felt the

believed in myself and knew I would work

minored in music business. “Belmont was a

same way that I did,” she says. “As an artist,

as hard as it took to get what I’ve always

blessing to me,” Ashton says. “My grandma

my job is to not only write for myself and my

wanted, so I moved the moment I graduated

insisted I go to college and I considered it

experience, but to write for those that can’t.

high school. You have to be present to win,

pointless for what I wanted to pursue, but

If I could make at least one kid in a small

so away I went.”

I love my grandma, so I bent. My mom

town somewhere who has the same view feel

Her very early dream of becoming a

was born and raised in Nashville, so she

seen and understood, that’s what I wanted

musician began at least partially with her

mentioned Belmont. I auditioned, got a

to do. That’s what I’ll always want to do.”

mother and sister. “My mother can sing,

scholarship, and in my final year at Belmont,

as well as my older sister, so I grew up in a

won a university-wide showcase that is

singing, she’s also worked with some pretty

house constantly filled with music,” Ashton

heavily attended by the music industry. I

big names in the country music world, in

says. “It was genre-less, as long as the

signed my publishing deal the semester

particular Keith Urban and Maren Morris. “I

female voice exuded power and attitude. We

before I graduated and my record deal a

pinch myself and try to be a sponge, soaking

sang just as much as we spoke, so my love

year later. Transitioning was more than a

up all the knowledge and insight I can,” she

definitely started there.”

dream thanks to that process and the team I

says of her encounters.

“I never allowed myself another choice

Ashton says the first time she sang onstage, she was only 4 years old. “From there on, anyone who would listen got a show,

70 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

built around me.”

Ashton’s mid-MO hometown, California, Missouri, is a place she says she has a

While Ashton enjoys song writing and solo

In the near future, look for Ashton’s postpandemic radio tour cross-country, and, she says, “send the good juju my way.”

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INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 71

Why should people care about myopia control?

Not all levels of myopia are created equally.

As the eye continues to grow and the amount of myopia increases, the risk of eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment and myopic maculopathy increase. For parents, the best time to act is when your child has a low amount of myopia, not when a stronger prescription's needed year after year. We can't go back and undo what's already done, but we can reduce progression going forward.

Dr. Jacqueline Byrd Optometrist

M MISSOURI EYE CONSULTANTS 573.874.2030 500 N. Keene St., Ste. 103 missourieyeconsultants.com

72 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

yopia's the clinical name for Dr. Byrd says now that the technology nearsightedness, the ability exists to do something about myopia to see well up close but have (which has become a global epidemic), blurry distance vision. It the practice "feels a results from the eyeball responsibility to our WE CAN'T GO BACK growing longer than patients to provide it."

AND UNDO WHAT'S average, causing light "We offer a variety of rays to be focused in the treatment options to ALREADY DONE, BUT wrong location. reduce the growth of WE CAN REDUCE As children grow, their the eye, which in turn PROGRESSION eyes continue to grow, slows the progression of GOING FORWARD. resulting in worsening of myopia. Options include the myopia. This can have a specialty contact lenses significant impact on everyday life and put worn daily or nightly eye drops." the children at greater risk for eye health In addition to myopia control, the problems later in life. Myopia's caused by practice offers comprehensive eye care both genetics and lifestyle: Having parents — everything from glasses and contacts who are myopic increases a child's risk, to management of diseases by both along with environmental factors such as optometrists and ophthalmologists who less time outdoors and more up close work provide cataract surgery and specialty (reading or playing on close up devices). glaucoma care.

Youth are experiencing mental health issues at a higher rate. How can parents help support their youth during this challenging time?

Depression, anxiety and suicide in youth is always a concern, but the current social, academic and economic stressors related to COVID are contributing to an outbreak in this existing problem. I advise parents to be vigilant. Any mood and behavior changes could be a signal. If you see or suspect anything, seek professional help. With proper psychiatric services, counseling and treatment, things can turn around. Parents should not feel alone.

Syed Imam, MD Medical Director, Stepping Stones Program

G

iven his work with suicidal youth "We understand that a mental health in the psychiatric hospital, Dr. crisis is just part of a person’s story, it Imam wants to bring parents' does not define who they are, " Dr. Imam attention to another very says. "We are here to critical time: right after help patients get well WE UNDERSTAND discharge. "It's critical," he and return to their THAT A MENTAL says, "because children home environment.

HEALTH CRISIS IS coming out of psychiatric CenterPointe provides a JUST PART OF A hospitals have fragile continuum of inpatient PERSON’S STORY, IT and outpatient treatment psyches. They are as weak DOES NOT DEFINE as with any physical illness options for youth through WHO THEY ARE. and their adaptability to senior adults. emotional stressors is at "Mental health its weakest point." issues can impact anyone. If you're ever He advises parents to limit children's concerned about a loved one, reach out. exposure to these stressors, starting at the CenterPointe provides complimentary time of discharge, and to give their child level of care assessments through our time to get reacclimated to being home Assessment and Referral Department, and to ease back into daily and emotional which is staffed 24/7 365 days a year. All stressors. you need to do is call and press option 1.

CENTERPOINTE HOSPITAL OF COLUMBIA 573.615.2001 1201 International Drive centerpointehospitalcolumbia.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 73

What are the benefits of body sculpting and toning?

For starters, it's less expensive than surgery, with minimal to no discomfort and no chemical or toxic injections. There's no downtime or recovery time, and it can work on specific areas of your body that you're unhappy with — to help improve your body image. The changes are gradual but noticeable. Friends and family will notice something different about you, but not be able to say what's changed — just that you're looking great!

With this alternative, there's no drastic plastic (surgery) shock!

Gail Horton Owner

G A-NU-U 573.819.7739 1506 Chapel Hill Road businesswebsite.com

74 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

ail Horton, owner of A-Nu-U, LLC, compliment your looks, if you're not wanted to offer body sculpting happy with how you look, you can opt to and toning because it's an change things. What you think and how affordable, non-surgical you feel matters! and comfortable way Because her business THE CHANGES to decrease the signs of is small — not a big, cold, ARE GRADUAL BUT clinical site — A-Nu-U aging and sculpt and NOTICEABLE. change the shape of the can provide attentive body. Oftentimes, people care with a personal opt for plastic surgery because they touch. Horton and her staff are always read about celebs who've had it done willing to work around your schedule or have seen them on social media. But and to customize their services to fit your plastic surgery's expensive, and celebs needs — whether it's lessening your likely have the money to spend. For other post-pregnancy "pooch" or giving your people, someone else wants them to face a youthful lift that'll lift your spirits, have surgery — for instance a significant turn to Horton and let her and the team other or husband who wants their partner at A-Nu-U to help you be the you that you to have bigger breasts. Even if others want to be.

How does an individual and their family/guardian select residential or day habilitation services before or after obtaining a comprehensive Medicaid waiver?

Building a support team will ensure that a comprehensive approach is utilized to help imagine and live out your dreams. A passionate, experienced agency will help you make them attainable — safely. Make a list of area providers, interview and visit multiple times.

Meet with staff and make your expectations known. Choices are always available, never settle!

Candace Palmer Founder/Owner/CEO

C

andace Palmer's mission is to provide Mental Health, when combined with our loving, compassionate support founding team, who also bring many years services for people with intellectual spent working with this special population, disabilities, dual gives us the ability to focus diagnoses, and medically on community-based EVERYONE HAS fragile conditions. She advocacy, development, THE RIGHT TO LIVE and specialized care that feels strongly they should have equal opportunities other agencies may shy THEIR BEST LIFE! to be active, contributing away from.” members of their community. "I truly "Everyone has the right to live their believe this is my calling in life," she says. "I best life! By developing and maximizing have been shaped by persons with special specific individualized goals, we are able abilities, people whom I love dearly." to support each person entrusted to our Palmer has served in this field for more care in achieving their objectives with love, than 20 years in many roles. "My forensic compassion, and the best possible training nursing background and my experience as and oversight. In this way, we are creating a a Community RN with the Department of legacy one life at a time!"

LEGACY LIFE SERVICES 573.514.0097 PO Box 10028 legacymo.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 75

How do we start identifying and mitigating our particular vulnerabilities to help survive an extreme event?

The best way to get started is by meeting and discussing your individual areas of risk.

Workplace violence is typically a result of robbery, employee disagreements, domestic problems, or disgruntled clients/patients.

Those with accumulated wealth are most vulnerable. After our initial meeting I will provide a written overview of your concerns and present a few options to mitigate your risks. There’s no cost or obligation and your confidentiality is always respected.

Joe Gilbert Principle

A JOE GILBERT 573.808.5075 joegilbert.us

76 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

fter more than a decade working and ability to address civil and criminal with attorneys (as a special liability issues, de-escalation techniques investigator) in defense of civil and "best practice" use of force training, liability claims, it was saying it allows them obvious to Joe Gilbert to provide proven full MY MISSION that the vast majority spectrum solutions to their IS TO HELP of business owners clients. "The information and professionals are GOOD PEOPLE BE and methodologies we unaware and ill-prepared present come from real-life VICTORIOUS! to face the physical, legal, experience and ongoing financial and emotional training relationships with challenges they're likely to experience the nation's leading experts such as John following a violent workplace event or Farnam, Mas Ayoob and many others," use of force. "My mission is to help good he says. people be victorious!" Gibert says.

Gilbert encourages anyone who's He cites his business' experience interested to contact him today.

Why does a community need to invest in behavioral health services?

Investing in behavioral health services has many advantages: It provides resources such as psychiatric care and other mental health services. It helps avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and jail visits, which can save communities a lot of money. Patients will be better equipped to take their medications regularly, become less distressed and work on improving themselves. A less distressed child is able to learn better. A less distressed adult will be better able to care for the future, our children.

Dr. Samuel Temesgen Psychiatrist

F

or Dr. Samuel Temesgen, psychiatry and internal conflicts so that one can be has the feel of a calling. “Of all the better at helping others,” he said. eye-opening information I acquired in Dr. Temesgen works for Burrell, which medical school, what took provides comprehensive me by greatest surprise and integrated services to It’s very unique as it was psychiatry, and the forces one to work on clients. The Community brain in general,” Dr. Mental Health Center one’s own issues and Temesgen says. helps their clients feel internal conflicts so He grew up in a culture better by taking the right where society associated that one can be better meds and providing tools mental illness with through counseling and at helping others. entities such as magic, access to resources (such possession by evil spirits, as food pantries, housing generational curses and being “poisoned” and rehab providers). Clients also learn by an angry or jealous person. Because of how to become advocates for themselves. that, Dr. Temesgen had trust issues and You don’t need health insurance to start fear of others until his psychiatry rotation receiving mental health services at Burrell. in med school. After initially resisting the If you’ve been on the fence about seeking temptation to become a psychiatrist, he help, Dr. Temesgen encourages you to changed his mind. “It’s very unique as it contact them today. forces one to work on one’s own issues

BURRELL Behavioral Health 573-777-8300 3401 Berrywood Dr burrellcenter.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 77

What do I need to do to maintain my septic system or lagoon?

Lots of new home owners have this question.

With little to no experience with on-site septic systems, they aren't sure what they need to do, so they call us. They just want the peace of mind that someone's there to pump their tank, keep their drain lines clean and help solve problems. They don't want sewer back-ups in their house. Who can blame them? We can provide preventative maintenance, as well as service after an incident.

John Martin Owner

U PRO PUMPING & HYDRO JETTING 573.474.5489 4015 I-70 Drive NW pro-pumping.com

78 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

nlike many people, John Martin "They'll work with customers to solve doesn't consider a septic tank rank. septic issues, offer local service that can get He's immune to a foul lagoon, and to jobs quickly, and use good equipment doesn't budge at the to pump tanks, hydro jet thought of sludge. "This drain lines, do camera I ENJOY HELPING company has a good inspections and provide PEOPLE SOLVE reputation and strong repairs." history of customer Martin may have a PROBLEMS AND service in an industry funny slogan for his HELPING PREVENT where few people want business — "You dump PROBLEMS WITH THEIR it, we pump it" — but he to be involved … septic SEPTIC SYSTEMS. tanks and lagoons!" knows there's nothing Martin says. "However, funny about septic this is vital to the value and function of snafus. "Our company will provide timely your home. I started as a technician, then and professional service using modern manager, and now owner. I enjoy helping equipment to meet your needs relating to people solve problems and helping prevent septic systems," he says. "We'll also provide problems with their septic systems." ongoing service by establishing a plan for He feels his company's trained and your septic system, and carry that plan out helpful technicians set it apart from others: so your system's operational."

What does the "Diamond Glow and Secret RF" do for a patient's skin?

It’s a next-level resurfacing treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses the skin. Skin feels brighter, fresher and smoother, with clearer pores. Secret RF is fractional radiofrequency microneedling and is notably effective for scars, wrinkles and stretch marks. It’s minimally invasive and uses very fine sterilized needles to create microscopic wounds in the dermis. The thermal heating aspect results in new collagen production and dermal thickening. The healing and recovery time is faster than with traditional microneedling.

Julie Shramek Licensed Esthetician

J

ulie Shramek’s own personal and patient concerns, to make sure we journey to clear up her acne and treat patients with the utmost care,” she learn how to take care of her skin says. “Our group includes a fellow of during the aging the American Society process led her to her for Mohs Surgery, current position. “I love Board Certified I LOVE BEING being able to educate Dermatologists in the ABLE TO EDUCATE patients about skin American Academy PATIENTS ABOUT SKIN care and teach them of Dermatology, CARE AND TEACH that our skin is an Board Certified Nurse THEM THAT OUR SKIN investment,” she says.

Practitioners and “I feel pride in my work Physician Assistants IS AN INVESTMENT. when patients leave with over thirty-four with a glowing smile.” years of combined Shramek believes clinical experience, and that being in a dermatology practice myself, a licensed esthetician to provide sets her apart from other estheticians. the most complete team of skin care “We have a team of physicians here that specialists in mid-Missouri.”

I can always come to with questions

CENTRAL MISSOURI DERMATOLOGY 573.876.1616 401 Keene St. centralmodermatologygroup.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 79

How can virtual reality help you sleep better?

Immersive Media or "VR," has been shown to be just as effective as a dose of the powerful painkiller Dilaudid. VR tricks the brain into thinking it's inside a peaceful, calming environment. Besides being a drugless way to dull pain, VR with Healium can help you learn to self-regulate anxiety by training your brain patterns and heart rate to be more focused and calm, and your mind to quiet those excessive and intrusive thoughts at night.

Sarah Hill CEO

R

HEALIUM 573.214.0504 4013 Frontgate Drive, Suite 107 tryhealium.com hello@tryhealium.com

80 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

eal life provided the inspiration for journals, these "digiceuticals" have been Sarah Hill to found Healium. "I tried shown to quickly downshift the nervous to juggle being a mom with being system, reduce anxiety, improve focus a TV reporter for 15 and mood in as little years until ultimately, as four minutes. While You can learn to selfmy body caved into not a replacement for regulate your brain the stress," Hill says. "I psychotropic medication struggled with anxiety or professional patterns to sleep and panic attacks counseling, Healium is a better, feel better triggered by insomnia. clinically validated selfand improve your I created Healium awareness tool to learn to human performance. for me, as well as the self-regulate your mind millions of others, and heart. looking for drugless solutions to improve "We sell Healium to schools, colleges, their human performance, reduce anxiety, gyms, dentist's offices, the US Air Force, and sleep better." and even major league baseball teams," she Hill explains that Healium creates says. "You can learn to self-regulate your "digital drugs" for anxiety, sleep and brain patterns to sleep better, feel better human performance. In four peer-reviewed and improve your human performance."

How can parents reduce the stress caused by the pandemic?

Parenting is hard. I have four children and admit it's not easy. The daily stress of our own lives, plus caring for our children, is tough.

Difficult circumstances take a toll. Stress can impact cognition and our emotions, create physical problems, and social difficulties.

Resilience is the ability to recover from/adjust to change. Becoming resilient is important because it helps us overcome negative experiences and better manage stress. Parents can do alot to help.

Melanie Bowers Owner/Director

F

or Melanie Bowers, educating and She says Sylvan’s dedicated to providing supporting children has always been a students with the education they need to be passion. “I worked in education for over successful. “We care about each family we 20 years as a teacher, work with and are passionate counselor and psychologiabout what we do. But there With the help of cal examiner.” She’s never are things parents can do, experienced such a stress- others and trusted too: Provide a warm, nurturful time for both educaing home environment. Parprofessionals, it tors and children due to ents have the power to make can make it easier. a difference in their children's the pandemic. “It caused such a learning loss I felt I development. Talk about needed to help in some way. Sylvan Learning emotions, model self-control, and discuss in Columbia opened June 14, 2021. ways to cope with stressful situations.

She says Sylvan’s the go-to for educational “Provide structure so children know what’s support, with a track record of 40 years in expected of them. Structure gives a sense the business. “Today's students haven't just of security and comfort. Regular mealtimes, missed math class due to the pandemic — homework time, bedtimes and time to they've missed out on reading, writing, help unwind are important. Be proactive. It’s imporwith homework, and aren't prepared for the tant to acknowledge and accept our emotions SAT/ACT. Sylvan has services to address each during hard times. If your child’s struggling, area. Our learning plans are individualized to get them help. Don't wait and hope the probget the best results.” lem gets better.

SYLVAN Learning Center 573-446-0310 3301 Broadway Business Park Suite B

sylvanlearning.com

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 81

CHECK OUT THE LATEST EDITION

COVERING COLUMBIA'S BUSINESS COMMUNITY

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CotY

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

87

NEWS BRIEFS: The Buzz on CoMo Biz

88

TAKING THE FIELD: New Owners Take Over At Shiloh Sports Bar

95

UP & COMING: The Ladder Report

98

DATABANK: Columbia’s Housing Market Nears Record-Breaking Levels

94

100 NEW ROLE — NEW GOALS:

The Aldens Continue Their

Commitment To Others 104 POP-UP PICNICS:

Novel Company Creates

Outdoor Opportunities 106 CEO ROUNDTABLE:

Local Leaders Speak

Out on Columbia’s Future

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ON THE COVER: Read how former University of Missouri Athletic Director Mike Alden and Rockie, his wife, are affecting lives in a larger arena.

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STAFF Chief Executive Officer Carla Leible cleible@zrgmail.com Publisher Emeritus Fred Parry fred@insidecolumbia.net Publisher Melody Parry melody@insidecolumbia.net Associate Editors Olivia DeSmit odesmit@insidecolumbia.net

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N E WS BRI E FS

OPENING BELL

News You Need To Know Burrell Behavioral Health recently outlined plans the Community Mental Health Center has to build a comprehensive Behavioral Crisis Center in Columbia. The proposed crisis center would be a 24/7/365 facility offering a full continuum of care for Columbia and Boone County citizens experiencing a mental health or substance-use crisis. Services at the facility would include 23hour stabilization, psychiatric assessment, and an up-to-three-day stay in an Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit. Burrell also announced a partnership with local addiction recovery nonprofit Phoenix Programs to potentially build the facility on Phoenix property.

This would allow for seamless referral of those who visit the BCC

PROVIDED BY BURRELL

BURRELL PLANS NEW COLUMBIA BEHAVIORAL CRISIS CENTER

in need of longer-term social-setting detox treatment, which Phoenix already provides at this location.

COLUMBIA RANKS 28 IN MOST LIVABLE COLLEGE TOWN STUDY

PROVIDED BY COLUMBIA COLLEGE

In a new study, SmartAsset crunched the numbers to find the most livable college towns in America. They analyzed data for 116 U.S. cities and towns across eight livability metrics: median household income, housing costs as a percentage of median household income, concentration of restaurants and entertainment establishments, average commute time, percentage of households with internet access, unemployment, property crime and violent crime. Key findings from the study found Midwestern college towns were the region most represented. Columbia ranked number 28 in the study, ahead of Blacksburg, Virginia, and Cambridge, Massachusetts.

TRYPS RETURNS HOME TO THE COLUMBIA MALL

PROVIDED BY TRYPS

TRYPS Children’s Theater has returned home. In August the organization returned to the Columbia Mall — its home from 2008-2012 — after leasing space in Stephens College for the past seven years. TRYPS raised approximately $190,000 to renovate, relocate and reopen for business. Fall acting classes kicked off after Labor Day for children ages 4 to grade 12.

MU RECEIVES GIFT TO SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURSHIP University of Missouri leaders announced a $450,000 gift to benefit student entrepreneurs and bolster entrepreneurship programs at MU. The gift from Robert and Shelly Griggs will establish the Robert and Shelly Griggs Family Innovators Nexus.

The program will provide guidance to student entrepreneurs

with expertise, programming, coaching, funding and other resources to help them succeed. Select students will receive rentfree space to operate a storefront for their business. The Griggs, together with their sons, have committed $1.16 million to the university in cash and planned gifts.

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OPENING BELL

TH E B UZ Z O N COM O BI Z

New Sports Bar Owners Take The Field

BY M E LODY PARRY

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P H OTO BY L .G . PAT T E RSON

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hiloh Bar & Grill has changed hands. The restaurant and bar, known for its wings, patio dining and happy hour specials now has new owners.

Nic Parks and Justin Benson are partners in the deal, which closed in early September.

Previous owner TA Atkinson consulted with the new owners until Sept. 15. Atkinson has owned Shiloh for decades, which is located at 402 E. Broadway and was previously the site of Katy Station restaurant. Benson will take over the day-to-day activities at Shiloh.

While the Shiloh name will stay the same, other improvements are on the horizon. According to Parks, an improved POS system will help get the orders out quicker. “The food, service and atmosphere are already great. You’ll see subtle improvements like additional tv’s, remodeled bathrooms and an investment in technology,” he says.

Parks already owns a number of bars and restaurants in Columbia including the Pinball Company, Level Up, Silver Ball, Cantina — and now Shiloh. He’s also a partner in the upcoming Lakeside Ashland project, a 37-acre entertainment park, which is tentatively scheduled to be completed in the spring for phase one.

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MUTRUX AUTOMOTIVE We are your family friendly neighborhood full-service station.

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automotive

WITH WINTER ON ITS WAY, now’s the time to find a repair shop that won’t give you the cold shoulder. Your shop should proactively offer to check your vehicle for everything it needs to be winter-worthy. Cindy Mutrux, who co-owns Mutrux Automotive with her husband Ross, says “We’ll make suggestions as to what is needed for bad weather and to keep you safe in your vehicle.”

BATTERIES AND BEYOND A car in tip-top running order’s critical any time of year, but particularly in winter. Getting stuck or stranded in freezing temps isn’t anyone’s idea of a holiday party. Engine won’t turn over? Your battery’s likely to blame. Most batteries have a life expectancy of three to five years. It’s important to know your battery has proper cranking amperage to start your vehicle. According to Cindy, “The most common winter repairs are starting issues and heater performance.” Beyond batteries, there are other winterizing steps you should take.

ANNUAL CHECK-UP When you think about it, your auto repair tech’s practically as important as your doctor. Afterall, you’re literally taking your life — and the lives of your family — into your hands whenever your hands are on the steering wheel. You need an auto repair shop and techs you can trust.

Mutrux has been keeping mid-Missouri drivers safely on the road for nearly 20 years, and they’d love the chance to add you to their list of satisfied, repeat road warriors. Mutrux may tinker with your car, but they won’t tinker with your trust.

“The most common winter repairs are starting issues and heater performance.”

- CINDY MUTRUX, CO-OWNER

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WHAT TO WINTERIZE According to Cindy and Ross, the most overlooked winterizing items are tires, an oil change, proper antifreeze and filters. Here’s a list of what to have your repair tech check so your sled’s ready for a run:

Cooling System

Heaters are a hot repair topic when winter hits, as Cindy said. Cooling systems do more than cool your engine — they generate heat for the passenger compartment.

Nobody wants to feel as frigid as “Frozen’s” Olaf.

Brakes

Missouri can get some pretty serious snow — but an even more treacherous threat’s ice. Several past ice storms turned Stadium into “Skate-ium.” A thorough inspection can prevent a scary slide.

Tires

Most tires are considered all season now, says Mutrux.

“Snow tires have pretty well become a thing of the past.

This makes the condition of your tires that much more important. Proper tread, depth is essential for good traction in inclement weather.” Proper inflation is also key. Every 10° change in ambient temperature could mean a gain or loss of one pound per square inch (PSI.) This means you should check your pressure more regularly during winter and add air to your tires as needed.

Suspension

With winter’s constant freezing and thawing and water seeping into the pavement and expanding, roads can develop cracks and potholes that pose a threat to your vehicle. Who needs to live in suspension suspense? Have yours checked.

Oil

Your motor oil lubricates the various moving components of your engine. Living in the midwest with harsh winters, it’s important to perform proper regular oil changes to insure lubrication in the frigid temps.

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Wiper Fluid

A single snowstorm can deplete a lot of windshield wiper fluid, so the reservoir should be frequently refilled with fluid formulated for winter conditions: A bottle of washer fluid antifreeze might also need to be added to the reservoir.

Gasoline blend

The correct octane and ethanol level are imperative to subzero start-ups. Also, fuel line antifreeze may be needed for poor quality fuels. Automotive experts also recommend keeping your gas tank at least half full.

Gimme A Brake Under Pressure.

If your vehicle’s equipped with ABS, you don’t need to pump the brakes on slippery roads. Your vehicle will activate it automatically — pulsating the brakes as soon as the system detects a wheel skidding.

Just firmly press your foot on the brake and maintain steady pressure.

Avoid A Slam Jam.

Slamming hard on your brakes on an icy, slippery road could cause your car to skid uncontrollably. To prevent this, gradually slow down the accelerator.

Ice Advice.

Here’s what to do when your car won’t stop on ice: If it’s your front wheels, take your foot off the accelerator and let your vehicle slow down. If you continue to slide, press on the brakes gently to help bring your vehicle to a stop. If it’s your back wheels, slowly turn your wheel in the direction of the slide while taking your foot off the accelerator.

automotive

WE’RE WINTERIZING WHIZZES

THE MUTRUX TEAM can take care of all your automotive winterizing needs.

IN THE SHOP

We offer quality and affordable maintenance and repairs.

AT THE PUMP

You can stay warm and cozy in your car: Just pull up to the pump and let a friendly, smiling, knowledgeable member of the Mutrux team:

PUMP YOUR GAS CHECK YOUR ENGINE FLUIDS WASH YOUR WINDSHIELD CHECK THE AIR PRESSURE IN YOUR TIRES AND FILL THEM TO THE CORRECT PRESSURE IF YOU GET GAS PROVIDE FREE TREATS FOR YOUR KIDS AND YOUR DOGS GRAB A SNACK OR DRINK FOR YOU

MUTRUX AUTOMOTIVE 2100 W. Rollins Road 573-445-3313 | 573-445-1070 mutruxauto.com FALL 2021

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U P & COM I N G

The Ladder Report Look Who’s Moving Up In Business REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INC. (REDI) President STACEY BUTTON was recently appointed to the Missouri Statewide Innovation and Entrepreneurship Steering Committee. She will assist in developing a new strategic plan for Missouri Technology Corporation to advance entrepreneurship and drive economic growth throughout the state of Missouri.

THOMAS SPENCER has been named vice chancellor for research and economic development at the UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI. Spencer is a Curators’ Distinguished Professor in both the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and the School of Medicine’s Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health. He has served as the interim vice chancellor for research and economic development since Jan. 26. Spencer is a reproductive and developmental biologist nationally and internationally recognized for his work on the development and function of the uterus and placenta.

COIL CONSTRUCTION announced two team members have earned additional professional certifications. DON PROSE earned his Professional Engineer (P.E.) designation. The Principles and Practice of Engineering exam tests for a level of competency in a particular engineering discipline.

Prose joined the Coil team in 2011 as a project manager and has overseen projects for both new construction and remodels. He earned his Project Manager Professional (P.M.P) certification last year.

MAGGIE SCHNEIDER earned her National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) designation. The NCIDQ examination is the broad-based exam for all interior designers and serves as the foundation from which to build for those moving into specialty design areas. Schneider joined the Coil team in 2019 as a project manager. Her main responsibilities include project management and interior design consultation.

DESIREE REED-FRANCOIS was hired in August as the director of Intercollegiate Athletics for the UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI. Reed-Francois has more than 25 years of experience in intercollegiate athletics and was the first Hispanic female and woman of color athletics director at the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level. She has served as athletics director at UNLV since 2017 where she oversaw the opening of a new $35 million football complex and successful negotiation of a joint use agreement with the NFL’s Oakland Raiders.

ERIC HEMPEL was named the manager of the CITY OF COLUMBIA’s Office of Sustainability. He will

provide vision and leadership in the implementation of the city’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, direct the preparation of short-term and long-range plans and prepare the Office of Sustainability annual budget. Hempel has worked at the city since January 2012. During his time at the city, he has worked as housing specialist, energy educator and environmental program coordinator. GARY ANSPACH was named the city’s new housing programs manager. As housing programs manager, he will manage the city’s funding received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He previously worked for the City of Columbia as senior housing specialist. Before returning to the city he worked as a financial officer in the State of Missouri Community Development Block Grant program.

CENTRAL BANK OF BOONE COUNTY has named BOB HULL the new director of business banking. Hull will be responsible for supervising the operations of business banking and providing financial counsel to customers and prospective clients. Hull brings with him 18 years of experience in financial services. Previously he served as market president and business banking director for US Bank. Hull first started his career at Central Bank in 1998 as a government accounts officer before joining Commerce Bank as a business banking specialist and sales manager.

JAYME HUNTER was named to the mortgage lending team

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at the South County Bank in Ashland.

She will be responsible for originating conventional, FHA, USDA, VA and MHDC loans as well as home equity lines of credit. Hunter brings with her three years of experience in financial services and previously was a lender for Veterans United Home Loans and worked for Quicken Loans. ANGELA GENTRY was promoted to senior vice president, consumer banking market director. In this role she will oversee sales, service and operations for all Central Bank of Boone County consumer banking. She began her career with the bank in 2001 as assistant manager at the Lake of the Woods and Village banks. She also served as manager of the Hallsville, Motor and Downtown banks before her promotion to assistant vice president in 2007 and vice president and sales manager in 2015. Most recently

U P & COM I N G

Gentry has served as vice president of consumer banking.

The VOLUNTARY ACTION CENTER has named four new members to its board of directors. KELLY GILBERT with Simmons Bank, EZRA KOMO with LIT Studio, DENZEL PATTERSON of Central Bank of Boone County and MEGAN STEEN of Burrell Behavioral Health. These members are filling the role of three previous board members whose terms ended. MARK PALMER was named project coordinator for the Opportunity Campus.

Palmer will be in this role for a year to help determine the scope, nature and sequence

ARE YOU READY TO BUILD? Imagine the pride you’ll feel at the ribbon-cutting of your new building, after you’ve put PCE’s 30 years of experience to work for you.

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of this project. He brings over 30 years of experience in the non-profit community, most recently retiring from Woodhaven in September 2020 where he was the chief executive officer.

ENDOVAC ANIMAL HEALTH announced the promotion of STEVE KNORR to president.

Knorr will be the first ENDOVAC Animal Health employee to be named president, outside of the Sprouse family, in nearly 40 years. Knorr joined ENDOVAC Animal Health three years ago after serving 23 years with the University of Missouri as part of the administrative leadership team, including 14 years as a general officer.

He also served five years as U.S. Senator Kit Bond's lead agricultural assitant in Washington, D.C.

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The Columbia Housing Market The 2021 Market Closes In On Hot Home Sales of Year 2000

While many people believe the housing market is good now — and it is — what some may not realize is that Columbia has seen this rapid increase before. Jeff MacLellan, who tracks data related to Columbia and Boone County’s economy, says, “We actually outsold this market back in the mid 2000s when we had about 2,900 homes sold.” In 2020, the Columbia Board of Realtors reported 2,679 homes sold.

But the numbers tell us even more. The 2021 housing market also reveals larger and more expensive homes are selling quickly.

“This market is also different in one main respect from the 2000 market. Homes in the $150,000 to $200,000 range were extremely hard to get in 2000. What’s different today is that if you have a home under $450,000 in

the right location, it’s not unusual to get three bids over asking price in one day,” MacLellan explains.

Why haven’t we broken the home market yet? “We’re extremely low on inventory,” MacLellan explains. “That’s going to determine whether we break the housing record this year.”

Total Houses Sold

SOURCE: COLUMBIA BOARD OF REALTORS; COMPILED BY JEFF MACLELLAN

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MORE THAN GOOD SPORTS Mike And Rockie Alden Teach Others To Win

By Jack Wax | Photos by L.G. Patterson

F

ormer University of Missouri Athletic Director Mike Alden and Rockie, his wife, have moved on.

Although Columbia remains their home and they still live within walking distance of the Mizzou Arena, they live their lives in a far larger arena. They’re the same approachable couple, unaffected by their years as university celebrities. Anchored to Columbia by their commitment to Mizzou and the community, they’ve

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increased their range of influence. The loud cheering of sports crowds has died down, replaced by the quiet voices of children and families in need — some living thousands of miles away in Southeast Asia.

It has been six years since Mike stepped out of his career at MU, leaving behind a 17-year legacy as one of the nation’s top college sports administrators. Throughout those years,

his name and image were synonymous with MU sports. Known for his winning ways, his finesse for fundraising and a strong athletic program, there is far more to him than portrayed on the sports pages of newspapers. For Mike, it has never been all about winning.

“With athletics when we’re winning, we’re filling stadiums — and that was awesome — but what we really felt great about was that there were so many more

people talking about Columbia, the quality of our faculty and what a great school Mizzou is. Winning helped serve more important things than athletics,” he says.

Most of those “more important things” are at the top of his and Rockie’s to-do list, setting the agenda for what they see as a journey, not a retirement. Together, they are co-chairs of the Heart of Missouri United Way’s 2021 Campaign.

For most couples, that commitment would be more than enough to focus on for the year. It means a full schedule of speaking engagements, media interviews, committee meetings and getting up-to-speed on the challenges facing the 29 different local agencies that receive funds from the United Way. “Sometimes, to get the job done, Mike and Rockie have to divide and conquer,” David Holtgraewe says, the United Way’s campaign chair who has known the couple for about 20 years.

Mike might be scheduled to make a presentation to a corporate group while Rockie is at the other end of town, doing a radio interview. But for someone who is used to working more than 80 hours a week, that schedule leaves plenty of time to focus on other projects, particularly the wide variety of programs stemming from the couple’s involvement with the people of Vietnam who face challenges that Americans seldom concern themselves with.

Neither Mike nor Rockie had thought much about Vietnam before Mike’s first visit to the country in 2009, on a Nike-sponsored tour with the athletic directors of three other colleges. The group was there to see for themselves how Nike shoes were manufactured.

Mike was a bit anxious, having never been out of the U.S., except for some trips to Mexico. He was also worried that the Vietnam War would have left the people resentful and even hostile to visiting Americans. Despite not speaking the language, one morning Mike left the comfort and luxury of his hotel and ventured out by himself to explore the streets of Ho Chi Minh City. It turned out to be a transformative experience. He returned with a heartfelt appreciation of a vibrant people. “What captured me was that as an American growing up, we saw

Vietnam through the lens of the media.

I walked to an economically challenged part of the city and people were trying to assist me, making eye contact with

what would be needed to expand her business. The woman’s answer: another sewing machine. Morris says that when Mike was back in the van with the other

Mike finishes up teaching a class at the Mai Tam House of Hope HIV orphanage in Ho Chi Minh.

me, helping me navigate and letting me know what and where I might eat. I was immersed in this universe I had never been involved with, and as I told Rockie, it was the loving spirit of the people and their welcoming attitude — especially to an American — that overwhelmed me,” he says.

After leaving the city, Mike and the other athletic directors were driven to the countryside for home visits with families participating in Nike’s microloan program. Through this program Nike provides funds to the Women’s Union of Cu Chi, which then makes loans of about $250 to women needing capital. “The women were very poor and were trying to start their own businesses, sewing piecework, making bamboo baskets or rice paper, even raising pigs,” Mike says.

Kit Morris, who served as Nike’s director of college sports marketing at the time, recalls that Mike was moved by the entrepreneurial spirit of the women and the way they worked so hard on behalf of their families. At the home of a woman doing piecework sewing, Mike asked through an interpreter

athletic administrators, “He told them, ‘OK — we’re going to do something about this. Everyone open up your wallets.’” The woman soon had the sewing machine she needed, and Mike soon realized that he could do more than help one family. Back in the U.S., he asked Nike for a list of all college athletic administrators who had ever toured Vietnam with them. He spearheaded an annual fundraising campaign that eventually generated $100,000, which is still loaned out then repaid through the Women’s Union of Cu Chi. Mike’s 11 trips to Vietnam have not only changed the trajectory of his life, but have impacted the lives of several hundred MU students as well as Vietnamese social service organizations and the people they serve. In 2013, as he was planning his retirement, Mike was thinking of ways to go beyond the microloan program. He imagined an academic bridge from Columbia to Vietnam — connecting individuals, resources and educational possibilities for people from both cultures. By 2015, he was holding meetings with officials from the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in

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Vietnam, Nike representatives and MU administrators. The team he was putting together established relationships with an HIV orphanage in Vietnam and a center for blind and visually impaired

Mike hiked 335 miles of the Appalachian Trail in 2016.

children. “If you’re a kid with those types of afflictions in Vietnam, you’re ostracized or abandoned,” says Mike.

“There’s a stigma in that culture that’s difficult to overcome.”

Starting as nothing more than a good intention, the program has grown in its scope and influence.

Before the pandemic hit, students from the MU schools of business, nursing, social work and medicine had crossed the bridge Mike had built and were helping Vietnamese children and families while learning about their lives and culture. A center for helping street kids soon was added to the program. One person who was profoundly affected by the program is Andrea Waner-Current, now Columbia

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Second Ward’s City Council member.

While working on her graduate degree in the Truman School of Public Affairs, she spent two weeks in Vietnam with Mike, there as one of the faculty advisors on the trip. “It was my first time overseas,” says Waner-Current, “and I learned how different societies work. It confirmed for me that I wanted to work in human rights and public health issues related to women and families.”

As a leader, whether in sports administration or as a humanitarian, Mike is known for his ability to inspire others with his vision. Sang Kim, director of the Asian Affairs Center at Mizzou, has worked with Mike for about five years now, and is impressed by his impact on others.

“His energy and his vision change everything when he gets involved with a project,” says Kim. “He can relate to people ranging from partners in Vietnam to students.”

Over the years, Rockie has not only supported Mike’s involvement with the Vietnamese, she’s also come to admire the Vietnamese philosophy of life.

“They have no animosity for Americans.

We’ve heard Vietnamese say more than once that in America, you tend to look back and take all your past with you.

The past is heavy and weighs you down.

They say, we look forward, we let go of whatever is behind us because it is a burden. It’s the lightness that teaches you,” she says.

Whether in Vietnam or traveling throughout the U.S., Mike considers Mizzou’s College of Education his

academic home. He taught a few courses on leadership after retiring, but particularly enjoys guest lecturing.

He’s also done consulting work with universities throughout the country, helping them build their athletic programs. Mike remains committed to the Vietnam project, considering himself as an unpaid coordinator, someone who makes things happen. “I love seeing Mike use his skills and gifts to do the things he loves,” Rockie says.

The couple agree that their Vietnamese experiences have made them more aware of the needs of others — something that supports their role as this year’s co-chairs of the United Way. “We always knew that Columbia was a place where people liked to help their neighbors, but I never realized how deep and diverse that help is — from refugees to the elderly to people with disabilities and people with equity challenges,” Rockie says.

There’s also a private side to the Aldens. When not in the company of others, they enjoy working on their “farm,” a 440-acre plot of land in Callaway County that has been in the family for more than 70 years. Mike’s stepmother lives there, and the couple also has a cabin they like to stay in nearby. Mornings are for leisurely drinking coffee on the porch together.

When the dew dries a bit, Mike will most likely hop on one of his tractors and do some mowing, something that helps him relax and think.

He also enjoys taking long — and sometimes challenging — hikes. During his first year of retirement, he trekked along 330 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Since then he’s been on the John Muir Trail in Yosemite and the Colorado Trail. He’s looking forward to hiking the Grand Canyon this fall.

There’s no chance that Mike or Rockie will be walking away from their commitment to others. They consider their approach toward Mike’s retirement and the years ahead as a faith-based journey. “What I’ve taken away from our experiences is that we can all learn from one another, wherever we come from and whatever our income,” Mike says.

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NO PACKING REQUIRED Pop-Up Picnics Bring Dining Outdoors WRITTEN BY

PHOTOS BY

Melody Parry

L.G. Patterson

F

rom a baby shower to a romantic proposal or birthday gathering, Andrea Lyn Events is creating pop-up picnics throughout Columbia.

For Andrea Lyn Seppo, the idea of pop-up picnics first came about from watching episodes of the “The Bachelor” television series. The beautiful settings, attention to detail and romantic setting was inspirational.

“I really fell in love with them. Pop-up picnics allow you to enjoy a luxurious dining experience, outdoors or indoors, with plate ware and decor matching a theme but with the big perk being — you don't have to clean up!” she says.

Luxury picnics mean “you don’t have to do a thing,” Seppo says. “All you have to do is come and enjoy.” Upon booking, her clients choose their picnic location, their theme and select their caterer. The day of the picnic she packs up the décor and supplies and arranges a beautiful picnic setup. Clients enjoy two hours of private picnicking before she returns to tear down, clean and return the rental items.

While COVID may have increased the popularity of the outdoor picnic concept, the idea of pop-up picnics has actually been around for a while, she says. Each season her team creates three or four designs to make sure your picnic isn’t of the garden-variety type.

Andrea Lyn and her husband, Jonathan Seppo, launched Andea Lyn Events in January 2021 and CoMo Picnics in August 2021. After graduating from the University of Missouri with a degree in Hospitality Management, Andrea Lyn planned events at the University Club.

What's her favorite part of owning CoMo Picnics?

“I love the freshness and creativity I can bring to our Columbia community,” she says. “Seeing the enjoyment of a client and hearing how their guests loved the picnic gives me indescribable joy!”

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Troy Greer, Matt Williams, Caleb Colbert and Dianne Lynch

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ROUNDTABLE Addressing Columbia’s Assets Cooperation, Collaboration and Creativity Are Recipe for Success.

By Olivia DeSmit Photos by L.G. Patterson

W

hile most people know that the University of Missouri is the largest employer in Columbia, participants at the most recent CEO Roundtable took the importance of the education sector a step further.

According to the 11 attendees, education is the most vital thing to improving Columbia’s future.

But, the roundtable participants said, education doesn’t only apply to our schools. Venture capitalists and other investors need to be educated on why Columbia is a good choice for their money. Columbians need to be educated about what MU as well as other top employers are inventing and bringing to Columbia’s economy and research sector. High school students need to be educated that college isn’t the only choice for them; trade schools are great options and workers skilled in the trades are desperately needed. Finally, city employees and officials need to be educated more on the struggles that business owners go through, especially when it comes to getting new projects and expansions approved.

Inside Columbia Publisher Emeritus Fred Parry hosted this CEO Roundtable at Zimmer Communications with local business owners, presidents and leaders from education, financial, legal,

development and health care industries.

The event was sponsored by The Broadway Hotel; the hotel’s award-winning Chef Jeff Guinn catered the meal that accompanied the conversation.

While attendees ranged across many industries, their answers were surprisingly similar when it came to what Columbia is struggling with and

invest in startups or compete in that universe and start thinking about partnerships, where partners bring those extraordinary resources into our community, because you have something to offer them,” Lynch says.

“What are those five or six companies in this community that do things extraordinarily well, and how do we take that as a strength and leverage it into strategic outreach to companies that have their own venture capital, and they're growing and they need to know where to go next.”

Jeff MacLellan, formerly the CEO of Landmark Bank, agrees that ultimately what Columbia needs to develop more projects and brands is capital, but not just any capital.

“What we really don't have is the big bucks,” he says. “I used the word

What are those five or six companies in this community that do things extraordinarily well, and how do we take that as a strength and leverage it into strategic outreach to companies that have their own venture capital, and they're growing and they need to know where to go next.

- Dianne Lynch what the path forward should look like. One of those areas is the need for more money being invested into our community.

Venturing Into New Water One thing that Columbia is lacking when it comes to projects is capital, roundtable attendees said. Perhaps the issue is the difference between startups and partnerships, Dianne Lynch, president of Stephen’s College, suggests. “Stop expecting people to

venture capital, because, you know, we're pretty good at getting companies started and getting them to a certain level. But for example, Beyond Meat couldn’t find funds here, so they went elsewhere. And other communities are benefiting from that.”

One potential solution to attracting venture capital is creating more deals, Susan Hart with Reinhart Construction, says. “We don't have a lot of venture capitalists looking because we don't have enough deals

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coming through.” Hart cites NextGen and the university as potential areas venture capitalists might invest. “The venture capitalists will start to come to us because their $250,000 or their million goes a lot further than on the East and West Coast.”

In order to attract investors, businesses and the university have to market why Columbia is a great choice. That’s one area we are failing, attendees said. “From my vantage point,” Mun Choi says, “The alignment on marketing of activities really starts

“But,” he continues, “with NextGen, with our athletics program, with local businesses like VU and Equipment Share, we can identify, what are the top five things that make us proud to live and work in a community like this.”

Jonathan Curtright, CEO for MU Health Care, says one area he thinks Columbia isn’t promoting enough is MU and the MU Health Care corporate partnerships. “We are the largest academic partner for Siemens Healthineers,” he says. “We are the number one partner of Cerner and

The University of Missouri is developing a reputation nationally as a great partner. We’re trying to get more business into Columbia, more innovation that’s going to create some really good paying jobs, and I think we can build off of that.

- Jonathan Curtright with the university touting its most compelling attributes.”

“There is so much that we can do as a community if we can come up with a coordinated marketing strategy, “ Choi adds. “I recently learned that Storage Mart was founded in Columbia and I had no idea. We have so many things that we can tout, but that does require us to come together and come up with a collective vision and put resources behind it.”

Transforming Innovation Into Economic Results Of course, the University of Missouri is the largest employer and is a source of new investments, but sometimes those investments aren’t well-known in the community. Choi says part of that issue is internal. “Wouldn't it be great if people could talk about things like NextGen as a point of pride?” he says.

“But, there are some faculty members that don’t know about this initiative.

And so we have to do a better job communicating with our internal audience as well.”

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we also just installed a 7 Tesla MR in the NextGen building, the most powerful magnet in the region. We should be highlighting these corporate partnerships in our community’s marketing and communications.“ “The University of Missouri is developing a reputation nationally as a great partner,” Curtright continues.

“We’re trying to get more business into Columbia, more innovation that’s going to create some really good paying jobs, and I think we can build off of that.”

Many businesses, including wellestablished ones and startups, in Columbia have new developments that citizens don’t know about.

According to participants, educating them and improving overall communication is one step in the right direction, but we also have to know how to transform those ideas and innovations into benefits the community can tangibly see.

Choi says that ultimately, the university can tip the scales when it comes to the success of Columbia as a

whole. “As the largest employer, if the university does well, the community does well,” he says. “But if we don't, and you saw this in 2016 after 2015, this community was hurting because of the reductions in enrollment and the smaller amount of state support that came through.”

Lynch agrees that we need to leverage the power of the university, but believes that other top employers and innovators in the community are essential, too. “Many of the fasting growing companies in the U.S. are startups that could benefit so much from hearing from people like Greg Steinhoff about how Veterans United has created a people first culture.

“It's an extraordinary story that we're not leveraging at all. The university is the core business and the core employer of this community and I believe it will remain that.

But I am also a big believer in diversifying revenue streams. I think higher education is going to change dramatically in the next decade, and I think that we have about 10 years to figure out how this city is going to leverage what else it does extraordinary well, and then build the narrative around it.”

As higher education evolves, so will elementary through high schools. But, evolution can only happen if schools are already in a good place.

School Systems Not Making The Grades Unfortunately, most schools in the country have had major hurdles over the past year and a half with the pandemic, but Columbia Public Schools’ issues go further than just that. According to Fred Parry, publisher emeritus for Inside Columbia magazine, CPS ranges in the bottom 25% of the state when it comes to the percentage of less advantaged students who reach English and math proficiency. Citing more state data, Parry says in Columbia, 28% of the

Susan Hart, Ed Scavone and Mun Choi

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Jonathan Curtright, Phebe LaMar, Gary Thompson and Jeff MacLellan

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subgroup students are “proficient” or “advanced” in English skills. For math, that number is only 24%.

Lynch says she believes the new CPS Superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood may help close this gap. But as someone who has been in education in Columbia for a long time, she says it’s not a new issue. “I think that one of our former superintendents used to talk about Columbia being the tale of two cities,” she says. “There is this whole element of thriving educated that are doing very well. And then there's a whole population of our city that does not meet that description.”

Phebe LaMar, an attorney with the Smith Lewis Law Firm, believes that within schools in Columbia, the achievement gap is not going to get better anytime soon. “When you start talking about kids who were stuck at home during the pandemic, there were groups of people who tried really hard to make sure that we continued to educate our kids,” she says. “Public education is the greatest equalizer and we're destroying it as we speak.

“If we don't find ways to build our public education up, we are going to continue to see the economic disparity grow, the achievement gap grow and we're going to continue to see all kind of ills for our entire society that we're not going to undo.”

And vice versa, poverty in the community can affect children in schools, too. Gary Thompson, CEO of Columbia Insurance Group, discussed the lunch program at Blue Ridge Elementary. “One hundred percent of the children there are on free or reduced lunch,” he says. “One hundred percent. There is hunger in that community and around our neighborhood — I mean, there's a tremendous number of families trying to make a living and raise their kids,” he says.

“The headlines often highlight crime committed by a small number of people, but the vast majority of these families are trying to break the

cycle of poverty and just need some guidance and assistance. I don’t think that story is known far and wide in our community.”

While some families in Columbia struggle with finding and keepings jobs and providing enough for their families, many business owners are seeing a starkly different issue: not enough workers.

A Loss Of Labor “You can have the best of living conditions and the highest paying jobs, but you're still competing with every place in the world for those workers,”

notified me that he’s not going to come unless his team can come.

“I think it's very important for us to understand that these pieces work together as a much broader puzzle, and if we don't solve certain pieces of it, it's very hard to solve other pieces of it.”

While labor and material shortages certainly add to the housing issue, one area that also may be contributing is approval for projects.

Challenges Within City Government Attendees cited the difficult work of elected officials in Columbia but

If we don't find ways to build our public education up, we are going to continue to see the economic disparity grow, the achievement gap grow and we're going to continue to see all kind of ills for our entire society that we're not going to undo.

- Phebe LaMar Ed Scavone, president of Central Bank of Boone County, says.

Matt Williams, president of Simmons Bank, says that according to his customers, a shortage of supplies and workers are the two biggest issues right now. “I think we’re headed in the right direction with what they’re doing with Ranken Tech,” he says. “But to me, that was a missed opportunity in the past. We do a great job of higher education here, but every high school student probably doesn't need to go to higher ed. So we're making up for lost time, but there's a lot of work to be done. I mean, it's hard to get a house built right now.”

Troy Greer, CEO of Boone Health, says he’s seen firsthand the effects of the housing shortage on employee recruiting. He recently tried to bring on a cardiothoracic surgeon who wanted to bring a team with him to Columbia. But, Greer says, his team was having trouble finding housing.

“They notified him that they couldn’t make the move right now and so he

wondered if perhaps we’ve gone too far in restricting growth. According to Caleb Colbert, an attorney at the Law Offices of Haden and Colbert, oftentimes the city government is stuck between a rock and a hard place, especially when it comes to new building permits. “It is very difficult for leaders at the city to recognize the value of building new housing or building new commercial development when existing residential neighbors, for example, come in and oppose the project,” he says. “At the end of the day everybody deserves a place to live, everybody deserves a place to work. In order to do that, you have to approve some of these projects.”

LaMar agrees that it can be difficult to get projects approved in Columbia. “When you apply for a plat, you don’t know that you’re going to get it approved,” she says.

“You may get turned down twice on a compliant plat, and you can’t build anything on that property without getting it replatted.”

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Hart adds that while the developer is waiting on that vote, they’re incurring huge costs. “I think we need to also point out the amount of money that developer has to put out before they even know what they can develop,” Hart says. “It’s a huge risk.”

MacLellan says the issue isn’t getting better as time goes on. “Part of the problem is sales tax revenue, which the city has gone looking for other ways to raise revenue, and they've done it with all kinds of costly rules and permits. We need somebody who is action-oriented, accountable and has had to meet payroll and lived in the real world.

“As far as local government leadership criteria, when you're a

businessperson, you compromise every day,” he continues. “You do it with customers. You do with employees. You do it with suppliers. I mean, that's the nature of the game.”

Of electing officials to affect change, Greer says one missing piece of the puzzle is communication with our citizens. “We're going to have to be able to tell people in the community what is in it for them, because if we don't do that, I think you're going to wind up in the same ineffectual leadership that's afraid because their job is to get reelected. In an ironic way, business leaders are more permanent than anybody who's ever elected.

“And so I think that leadership aside, we can't absconds our responsibility to

RAPIDFIRE “We need an outline of a job description for who's going to lead this effort and what kind of skills are required of that person or persons.”

– Jeff MacLellan, formerly with Landmark Bank “The airport’s new terminal is going to be a game changer from an economic development standpoint for our community.”

– Gary Thompson, Columbia Insurance Group “We need to immediately begin development of more shovel-ready sites.”

– Susan Hart, Reinhardt Construction “Ultimately, we're a small town. And we struggle with scale. And anything that we can do to partner and share resources with Jefferson City, will create more scale.”

- Jonathan Curtright, MU Health System “We need to prioritize and act. And that first is going to require a group of leadership willing to do that and say the hard things.”

– Dianne Lynch, Stephens College “We have to say why a healthy, well-planned growth rate is crucial for the economic well-being of our entire community.”

– Troy Greer, Boone Health

be there, because an elected official is only as good as the next election cycle.”

As a leader, Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri, can identify with some of these struggles. “I tell all my leaders: ‘You're not in a popularity contest. You're going to make some hard decisions.’ And in the same way, I think the city has to do the same thing.

To say ‘no’ to certain things that are not aligned to the vision, but start off by saying, how do I get to a ‘yes’.”

And that of course is one of the biggest takeaways from any CEO Roundtable: trying to get everyone participating — and those not in the room — to collaborate and compromise for the sake of our city and its citizens.

If you were leading a new Columbia initiative, what’s the first action item?

“Fads come and go, priorities change because you have different leaders. But that focus on excellence, if that can be sustained through multiple generations of leaders, will serve us well.”

– Mun Choi, University of Missouri “The mid-Missouri community needs to work collectively, across our city limits to align the many diverse interests in reaching common goals around workforce development.”

– Ed Scavone, Central Bank of Boone County “We need more folks from the business community to run for elected office. There are ample opportunities to volunteer on boards and commissions and we just need more folks from our organizations to step up and participate on those.”

– Caleb Colbert, Law Offices of Haden and Colbert “Workforce is our major issue right now. We can have all these great ideas, but if we don't have people to accomplish them, then we're dead in the water.”

– Matt Williams, Simmons Bank “We need to find ways to reach across the aisle with politics — the way to get our city into a better situation is to find ways to make it purple, not blue and red.”

– Phebe LaMar, Smith Lewis Law Firm

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Diamonds Are A

Team Scores Big At Little League World Series.

T

alk about winning one for the home team. The Daniel Boone Little League (DBLL) softball team took home a history-making third place win in the Little League World Series this past August.

“We’re the first softball team in the State of Missouri to ever make the Little League World Series (LLWS)," says Nick Britton, the team’s manager, coach and proud parent of player #23 Gracie Britton. ",And then to go 5 and 2 at the Little League World Series? It was pretty huge. We had a lot of

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fun. We played a lot of great teams. We made a lot of new friends.”

A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

Established in 1959, Daniel Boone Little League today has teams for baseball (boys) and softball (girls, added in 1974).

The league owns and operates a 36-acre, 10-field facility at Chapel Hill Road and Scott Boulevard, inside The Columbia Insurance Group Sports Park. To be eligible for the league, players must live or go to school in Boone County.

In 2006, the league’s baseball team made it to the Little League World Series.

“It means a lot to do something that no one else in Columbia has done before.

It proved to me that we were as good as everyone said we were.”

– Afton Regan Sadly, they failed to advance past regional play at the LLWS. Their day will hopefully come, and when it does, they’ll be follow-

Girls Best Friend

By Peg Gill | Photos by L.G. Patterson

ing in the footsteps — or around the base path — of the 2021 softball team.

THE STATS Prior to playing at the World Series, the softball team, considered the DBLL All Stars, played at the state tournament.

"What’s really cool about the All-Star team is that it’s voted on by the kids," Britton says. "You’re being selected by your peers.

The coaches take the voting and put the teams together, ultimately to be able to have as much success as we can."

But, he stresses, it’s not all about win-

ning. At the series he says, "We played 14 games total. We had a conscious effort among the coaching staff to get the girls as much playing time as possible, but still be able to win some games. Fortunately, every girl on the team got to start a game.

Little League has mandatory player rules.

For 13 girls on a team, the player rule is that every girl has to bat once in a game, which we were able to do.

“These girls play a lot of softball. Playing time looked a little different. All players contributed in some way to the success of the team. Maybe not at positions they

played all the time, on their travel teams, but everybody got to play a lot of softball at a high level," Britton says.

“To me it means that I can play with the best softball players in the nation.”

– Paige Bieske “That was our last game together so we just had to leave it all out there on the field.”

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TEAM SPIRIT Britton first got into coaching the DBLL All Stars in 2015, when his daughter Gracie started playing with the local

“That we were the first team from Missouri to win a game in the LLWS and the first ever softball team to even make it. And we got third in the World Series, means everything and we showed the Show-Me state that we can win, too!”

– Makenzie Lucas little league chapter after moving to Columbia. “From there, it’s really just been a growing relationship,” he says.

He coached the LLWS team with fellow player parents Kerry Bush and Steve Regan. “Most of the girls on the team have been a part of an extended family for many years.”

Coach Britton’s passion for the team is apparent — and not just because he’s a parent: “Sports is something that transcends all socioeconomic backgrounds,” he says. “What's nice about it is, it gives everybody the opportunity to do something.” It literally levels the playing field, if you will.

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“It’s an avenue for these girls, specifically the Little League World Series," Britton says, "to do something that no one has ever done. They wrote history.”

As a former collegiate wrestler at Iowa State, then a coach, Britton feels that for him, coaching is a calling. “I wanted to coach because number one, it was my way to give back, and number two, I knew what type of coaching my kids were going to receive. Sports have taught me a lot of things and I wanted to pass some of these things onto others.”

He has coached youth sports for nearly 20 years.

LIMBER LINEUP

Britton explains the strategy behind the team's World Series success. "We were fortunate to have four solid pitchers," he says. "We needed Afton to play in the outfield. So while her preferred position might be at pitcher, defensively we were better as a team with her in the outfield.

Hayden is one of our pitchers too, but she’s also our shortstop. So, again defensively, we had Kennedy Watson, who’s also a great pitcher, throw more innings than Hayden, only because defensively we’re better, and offensively, that gets

Kaitlyn Romanetto’s bat in the line up.”

TRAVEL TEAM

"It’s all been a whirlwind,” Britton says.

“I mean, COVID protocol alone threw a wrench in the system. Normally, at the World Series, girls have been able to trade pins and interact with other teams. We were put into team pods.

The team and the coaches, and my wife Sarah, who was actually our female advocate, traveled separately from the parents. These girls are 12 and 13 years old, so it’s the first time they’ve traveled for this long without their parents."

Regionals were five days in Indianapolis.

When the team advanced to the finals

“It was a huge accomplishment. This is something I will never forget and I am so grateful for the experience.”

– Afton Regan in Greenville, North Carolina, they were gone for 12 days.

ALL STARS & ROCK STARS

At the series, the sponsors of Little League provided team-issued Adidas

uniforms and Easton provided equipment.

"One girl equated it to a free shopping spree," Britton says. The girls were treated like rock stars. Doing media interviews, ESPN and the network coverage made the team nervous.

"But we just tried to make it about softball.

The first game, we were flatter than a pancake," he admits. "First, three days of travel, then equipment checkout, orientation, the first time away from parents — the emotional and nervous energy got to us. But once we started playing softball we got into a rhythm."

SANDLOT STOP OFF

The team faced COVID tests every other day and a fairly strict schedule. The coaches worked hard to find time in between for the tweens to have fun, with breaks such as a pizza party. "We had four straight days of pool play, then a day off, which could have not fallen at a better time," Britton says. “Our day off fell right between pool play and bracket play, so thanks to the support of Boone County, we were able to charter a bus to take us all to the beach, about an hour and a half away. We surprised the girls. They actually got to spend time with their families," Britton says. "That was one of our goals: for them to get as much experience as they could in softball but also in life experiences. We had one girl, it was the first time she’d ever seen the beach. That’s an experience she’ll never forget."

Fun Facts SHORTEST PLAYER

SWITCH HITTERS

FAVORITE ATHLETES

TIE Nova Porter, Paige Beaske 5'

TALLEST PLAYER Kaitlyn Romanetto 5'10"

RIGHT HANDERS 11

SOUTHPAWS

1- Kennedy Watson

1- Gracie Britton

Yadier Molina Three Player Picks

Hattie Moore Mizzou catcher Three Player Picks Patrick Mahomes Two Player Picks

FIELD OF DREAMS

The team lost to Oklahoma 0-7 in the semifinal game. But for Britton, the other coaches and the team, they felt the championship game actually happened in the semifinals. "I think the Oklahoma coaches would agree," he says. "We didn’t take care of business right up front to be able to put us in a good position.

Then we played Texas in the third place game.

We put together a great game. Finally. Our hitting came alive, our pitching was great.

Our defense was always solid. Everything kinda clicked. And we finally had the kind of game that everybody knew we could play. It just happened on the wrong day. But that’s sports. And we beat Texas 10-1."

Of the whole experience and the team’s historic win, Britton says, "We were able to do, maybe, a little bit more philosophical work with the girls. Trying to get them to understand this is bigger than us."

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ON A LARK A New Book Club Launches

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THE DANCE OF LIFE Two MU Grads Partner Up

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Calendar 13 Events For A Fab Fall

STATUE OF LIMITATIONS

Who can forget the Terror Dog gargoyles in“Ghostbusters,” the 1984 supernatural comedy and Halloween classic? Gargoyles, along with grotesques, are mythical and fantastical figures used as decorations in architecture. Although both are scary, gargoyles have a water sprout through the mouth while grotesques don’t.

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VINO & VIEWING Sip And See Artists In Action

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BOOKSHELF

A Sense of Community THE SKYLARKING BOOK CLUB LAUNCHES.

BY SOFIA PEREZ · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

J

ust three years ago

The shop’s top priority was

literature. Author Gabriela

at the bookshop at 6:30 pm,

Skylark Bookshop

for everyone to join safely

Garcia joined the group via

after the shop has closed. The

opened its doors with

and when the time was right,

Zoom to discuss her debut

only condition of membership

a plan to do more than just

with appropriate health

novel Of Woman and Salt. It

is that readers purchase the

sell books. Their purpose was

measures taken

was the culmination of a long-

book of the month from

to build community within

into consideration.

cherished dream. Better late

Skylark either in the shop,

than never, they say.

over the phone, or online. As

their walls. That’s why Alex

A virtual book club was

George, owner of Skylark

a thought, but in George’s

and a novelist, started

experience, virtual book

of all kinds are welcome to

planning for a book club

clubs only work when they’ve

join the upcoming Skylarking

at the local, independent

already been established,

Book Club meetings.

Club plans to meet next on

downtown bookstore back in

so that option was thrown

Attendees can expect a laid-

October 28. Missouri-born

2020. He envisioned friends,

out. He wanted to create a

back setting and an informal,

author Melissa Scholes

neighbors and strangers

space where customers could

low-key conversation initiated

Young will be Zooming into

meeting together to discuss

once again feel a sense of the

by a Skylark staff member.

the October meeting to talk

books, laugh and enjoy each

community they’d longed

Each month, staff will select a

about her book, The Hive.

other’s company.

for. In the meantime, the

newly released book they love.

The novel is a family saga,

Customers and book lovers

usual, masks are required in the shop.

The Skylarking Book

group was given a name:

All genres will be considered

set in rural Missouri. The

plans, putting the launch on

The Skylarking Book Club

including fiction, non-fiction,

date and book for November

hold for about 18 months later

(Skylarking is the title of an

big titles and books that

will be announced soon, and

than originally scheduled.

album by the British band

may have previously flown

those interested can check

But the world had other

XTC, which is one of the

under the radar. Titles will

the shop’s website and social

out via the Skylark blog

reasons for using it. George’s

be a mix of local and national

media for updates.

and social media in May of

father used to be their lawyer).

authors. The intention is to

2021 to gauge interest in

The name stuck and as

continue to have an author

visit Skylark at 22 S. 9th

an in-person, regular book

anticipation grew from loyal

attend each month, either

Street, Columbia, MO 65201.

club that would take place

customers and book lovers

in-person or remotely. There

Their hours are Monday

in the shop. The response

alike, Skylark began planning

is no commitment necessary

through Saturday 10 am to

from customers and book

for its first event.

for joining the club —

6 pm and Sunday 11 am to 5

George first put feelers

For more information,

lovers was overwhelming,

Thus, Skylarking Book

Skylarkers can simply choose

pm. For more information

speaking to the hunger for

Club was brought to fruition

to participate whenever the

visit skylarkbookshop.com/

in-person events to resume.

on Thursday, September 30.

month’s selected book piques

events or call 573.777-6990.

The planning commenced

They safely welcomed people

their interest.

Questions about book club

and ideas swirled about how

who had been longing for

to execute such an event.

community centered around

126 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

FASHION FASHION

Meetings will take place the last Thursday of every month

can also be directed to mail@ skylarkbookshop.com.

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128 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

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WEDDINGS

Athletic Alums Team Up BASEBALL PLAYER AND GOLDEN GIRL WED.

BY PEG GILL • PHOTOS BY CATHERINE RHODES PHOTOGRAPHY

Y

ou could say that after spotting

played key parts. John’s brother-in-law,

the bride’s bouquet and groom’s bouton-

Taryn Cadle, John Miles was a bit

Tyler Jenkins, who knew Taryn since the

niere. The bright bridesmaid's bouquets

squirrely. According to their “how

day she and John started dating, spoke.

stood out from their different styles of

we met” story, John and his friend Case —

Taryn’s soon to be sister-in-law, Chelsea

navy crepe Amsale dresses.

one of John’s groomsmen — ate breakfast

Sinjem, and groomsman Jordan Bley,

together at Dobbs Hall on MU's campus

both read bible verses. And John’s cousin,

every morning before class back in 2011.

Turner Staton, a professional opera

According to Taryn, Case could often be found scouting the ladies, while John

singer, performed.

The bride wore a Pronovias Privee

The groom and his groomsmen wore tuxedos from the French Laundry.

When it came to church decor, the couple felt that between the vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows, the church’s

could be found admiring the squirrels.

Jamella mermaid gown with a sweetheart

chapel was stunning on its own, so they

One late October morning, an attrac-

neckline, crafted almost exclusively in

added only a few floral arrangements.

tive blonde with a ginormous hair bump

beaded appliques — small, sparkling dai-

In keeping with the bride’s favorite

caught John's eye. “Who is that?” he

sies that bloomed about the semi-illusion

color, blue, the reception at the Country

asked Case. “That’s Taryn, she’s a Golden

corset bodice and fitted tulle skirt. Her

Club of Missouri featured periwinkle

Girl and Tri Delt,” Case replied. “Wanna

long ivory tulle veil featured floral ap-

striped table linens and coordinating

go meet her?” The two walked over,

pliques on the trim as well.

napkins. Huge arrangements of limelight

introductions were made, and John never

She accessorized with Kate and Mari

hydrangeas (grown in the groom’s moth-

looked at those squirrels again. He was

“Ashley Earrings,” and a diamond tennis

er’s garden) were featured prominently.

nuts about Taryn.

bracelet from the couple’s dear friend and

The couple got engaged over Home-

A boxwood “wall" was used to hold the

Buchroeders’ designer, Sara Sarno.Taryn

table cards under a light-up “Miles” sign.

coming weekend in 2019. “Mizzou’s

jokes her hair had “Lots of volume and

The groom’s grandmother, Deanna Spray,

always held a special place in our hearts,”

curls, back to my Golden Girl days!”

a talented local artist and accomplished

Taryn says, “and John proposed that Fri-

She carried a brightly colored, hand-

day on the Quad." He assembled all their

tied bouquet of blush garden roses, peri-

family and friends for a surprise engage-

winkle thistle, lavender stock, ranunculus

ment party at the atrium.

ranging from pink to coral to raspberry,

ditional wedding cake. “We somehow

The couple married on July 24 at

needle pointer, scribed every guest table card in beautiful calligraphy.

Edith Hall made the three-tier tra-

fuchsia mokara orchids, orange pin-

convinced her to come out of retirement,

Missouri United Methodist Church. The

cushion protea, purple gomphrena,

and so glad she did!” Taryn says.

honorable Kevin Crane, a long-time fam-

white stephanotis and pink freesia. The

ily friend of the groom, presided.

bridesmaids carried smaller versions of

memorable moments, other than “saying

the bride’s bouquet, minus the thistle and

I do,” was the fireworks show with music

stephanotis. Those were reserved for only

curated by groomsman Chris Volpo: “It

The religious ceremony was filled with people from the couple’s “village,” who

For the couple, one of the most

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 129

THE DETAILS BRIDAL GOWN Bridal Extraordinaire Kansas City BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS Bella Bridesmaid – Leawood, KS HAIR STYLING Lance Davies – Kansas City, MO PHOTOGRAPHY Catherine Rhodes VIDEOGRAPHER Marshall Byler LIMOUSINE Platinum Transportation – St. Louis

TUXEDOS French Laundry

FLORIST Drew Parker BAND Galaxy Band – St. Louis CAKE Edith Hall Cakes RINGS Buchroeders Jewelers REGISTRY Tallulah's, Sasha Nicholas – St. Louis, William Sonoma was a magical moment and we loved look-

The newlyweds honeymooned in

ing back at our guests illuminated by the

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for a week, and

firework’s light,” the groom says.

now reside in Kansas City, Missouri.

After the fireworks, Truman the Tiger

The bride works for PSG, a private

made an appearance and joined Taryn and

equity firm headquartered in Boston. The

her former Golden Girl teammates to fit-

groom spends the majority of his time

tingly perform “Eye of the Tiger!"

running his family’s funeral home busi-

The bride's parents are Roxanne and

ness throughout the greater Kansas City

Galen Cadle of Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

metro area, and also works as an insur-

The groom's parents are Dr. John Miles

ance producer with Centennial General

and Heidi Miles of Columbia.

Agency out of Columbia.

130 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

LIVE PAINTER Cindy Scott MAKEUP Caro Benitez – Kansas City, MO INVITATION DESIGN Leslie Chalfont (FL) and Melisa Cadle (MN) FLORISTS Shari McCallister, D & L Florist, Tiger Garden

Life Insurance I’ll go the distance for you and your family. They’ve always counted on you. They still will after you’re gone.

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EVENTS

What’s Going On

THE EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS MONTH. Dates and events are subject to change. Please visit the event website for the most up-to-date information.

October ALL OCT. LONG SHYROCK’S CORN MAZE

CALLAWAY FARMS Lose yourself in this seasonal sensation! Ticket includes corn maze, fun barn, the jumping pillow plus more outdoor activities. Reserved campfire, pumpkins and concessions are extra. The indoor gumball machine will be closed this year due to COVID-19.

12 p.m. – 9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays,12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Sundays; $11 adults, kids 5 –12 $10, four and under free; callawayfarms.com

132 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

OCT. 6 SENSORY FRIENDLY TOUCH-A-TRUCK

RAINBOW SOFTBALL CENTER COSMO PARK Does your tyke like trucks? You're in luck! See all the big rigs at this family-friendly event.

4 - 6 p.m.; free; como.gov

OCT. 9 MIDWAY HEIGHTS CRAFT MARKET

MIDWAY HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH This is not your grandma’s craft show! Shop local, hand-crafted/ repurposed items in the climatecontrolled building. There's something for everyone, and you can even have breakfast (biscuits & gravy) or lunch (ham & beans). Both will be available for purchase.

9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free entry; midwayheightsbaptist.com

OCT. 13, 20 GUT THE GOURD

ARMORY SPORTS CENTER Slice and dice your way to gutted glory at one of these two preHalloween carving contests. Orange you glad to know about it?

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; tickets $15 online, $20 at door; comomanshow.com

OCT. 17 SHOW-ME REPTILE & EXOTICS SHOW

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUSSTADIUM BLVD. Join the wild adventure! This show's one of the largest reptile and exotic pet shows in the region. This safe and familyfriendly event is geared toward educating and introducing people to reptiles and exotics.

9 or 10 a.m. entry, depending on ticket type; $7 to $20; eventbrite.com

OCT. 20 ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JESSE AUDITORIUM No need to travel to take in the symphony! Enjoy the stirring sounds of the second-oldest symphony orchestra in the country.

7 p.m.; from $36; concertseries.org

OCT. 23 NIGHT OF THE LIVING SHRED SKATEBOARD COMPETITION

DOUGLASS SKATE PARK Calling all chairmen (and women) of the board! Show your skills at this fun Halloweenthemed competition.

3 - 6 p.m.; free; ages 11 and up; como.gov

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EVENTS

OCT. 29–30 MISSOURI CONTEMPORARY BALLET: EMERGE

MISSOURI THEATRE MCB opens its 16th season with its annual fall performance, "EMERGE." The night will feature three world premieres and selected works from its repertoire, creating an exciting evening of diverse dance styles and music.

7 p.m.; from $28; concertseries.org

November NOV. 13-14 UNDER THE STREETLAMP

ARROW ROCK LYCEUM THEATRE Founded by leading cast members of the Tony Award-winning sensation, "Jersey Boys," these guys have performed in over a dozen shows on Broadway and all over the world. Their unique blend of harmonies, original arrangements and dynamite dancing take on your favorite old time Rock n Roll, Doo Wop and Motown Hits and everything in between.

7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; $95 regular seating, $125 premiere; lyceumtheatre.org

NOV. 19 PHOENIX PROGRAMS LIFE AND RECOVERY CELEBRATION

ELK PARK EVENT CENTER This fundraiser allows Phoenix Programs to continue serving those suffering from substance abuse and their families. Along with raising necessary funds, this '70s-themed event is a celebration of recovery and the individuals who've dedicated their lives to helping others reach recovery.

6:30 p.m.; $100; everyeventgives.com

NOV. 25 TURKEY TRAX

FLATBRANCH PARK Before gobbling up that gobbler, gobble up some miles! Join this family 5K walk/run through urban areas of Columbia and MU’s campus at this annual fundraiser for a yearly designated local charity organization.

8:30 a.m.; $15 youths, adult cost varies by signup date; ultramaxsports.com

Save The Date DEC.12 MOSY SYMPHONY OF TOYS

MISSOURI THEATRE Enjoy a spectacular holiday concert embracing a variety of music for the season.

Proceeds from children's tickets benefit Toys for Tots.

3 p.m.; $25 adults, $5 children 17 and younger; TheMOSY.org

DEC. 15-23 "A CHRISTMAS CAROL"

ARROW ROCK LYCEUM THEATRE Enjoy the return of a holiday tradition in Arrow Rock. The Lyceum's pleased to bring to life the familiar story of a seemingly heartless miser given one last chance at redemption by four visiting ghosts. The heartwarming message, dazzling scenery, costumes and holiday music of this show will get your entire family in the Christmas spirit.

Times may vary by show date, from $17; lyceumtheatre.org INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 133

PROMOTION

An Expert on Aging SENIOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS An interview with Chief Wellness Officer Cora Butler, J.D., R.N., C.H.C. It’s one thing to focus on health and wellness when you are 35 and active, but what about those who are in their senior years? We set out to find the answers from a Columbia expert, Chief Wellness Officer, Cora Butler.

Besides assisting with the implementation of state-of-theart predictive detection technology currently used

by Arrow Senior Living Management to provide a safer, more secure, and healthier environment for residents, Cora also has worked

closely with Arrow over the past several years as president and CEO of HealthCore Value Advisors, a company founded by Butler in 2014.

Cora has a graduate certificate in Health Care Corporate Compliance from George Washington University in Washington, D.C., she earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law and her Bachelor of Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia in Health Services Management.

Healthy aging is at the center of a growing discussion, not only in the US but worldwide, on the importance of gaining an understanding of aging and identifying the factors and influences that enable people to be and do what

they value throughout their lives.

At the center of this discussion is the concept of “wellness,” something that is relevant to everyone and the trajectory of which each individual has some ability to control.

Have you ever thought of what you would want to know about healthy aging? Well, we sat down with Cora to get answers to the burning questions you might have about this topic for seniors.

Q: What is the difference between “Health” and “Wellness”?

A: Wellness goes beyond the condition of the body and mind at a given point in time, generally described as “Health” or a state of being in regard to the presence or absence of disease. “Wellness” encompasses the broader con-

PROMOTION

cept of having and maintaining an ability to live a life that has personal meaning to that individual and provides an overall sense of wellbeing.

Q: What factors influence healthy aging?

A: According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in a recent report1 the five domains of healthy aging are the abilities to: meet basic needs; be mobile; build and maintain relationships; learn, grow, and make decisions; and contribute to society.

The Covid-19 pandemic has illuminated the importance of understanding the conditions that shape the course of daily life, such as economic, security, food security and nutrition, education, health care, and environment. Such factors are critical to wellness.

Q: What has the pandemic shown us about the significance of focusing on health as we continue to age?

A: It is necessary to scale up delivery of person-centered, integrated care to populations who need access to supportive, quality living environments, in order to optimize their ability to live a life that has personal meaning.

Q: What role can senior living providers play in providing for the wellbeing of seniors who choose to live in their environments?

A: Ideally, senior living providers

1 Decade of health aging: baseline report (https://www.who.int/ publications/i/item/9789240017900)

will take a proactive posture with regards to ensuring the health and well-being of its residents. In less than 10 years it is projected by the Population Reference Bureau that 20% of the population will be greater than 65 years old and by 2060 that number will almost double. As a nation, we will increasingly be looking for senior living housing that does not only address the needs for clinical support but also ensures that wellness is central in its service offerings.

The Westbury Senior Living, Columbia’s newest community, opening in Fall 2021, is ready to soar, with the help of Butler. At the community, Butler has formed an exceptional program to allow residents to focus on their health and wellness in a multitude of ways including physically, socially, and mentally, through amenities and services. Through acts of innovation, Butler has been able to provide peak wellness during the time of the pandemic across the midwest at Arrow’s communities, including The Westbury, and they are prepared as they start to welcome residents soon.

Smart design in the community also alludes to the wellness program that Butler has instilled throughout Arrow’s communities through these award-winning wellness technologies. The Westbury is equipped with technology concentrating on resident well-being that offers passive monitoring of changes in care, predictive capabilities for illness detection, and emergency notification for falls

and other crises.

The Westbury Senior Living is located on the west side of Columbia in the charming and exciting new Westbury Village development, centrally and conveniently positioned just moments away from Scott Boulevard with easy access to local shopping and attractions as well as Stadium Boulevard and Hwy 70. The Westbury is the first cornerstone property opening in the Westbury Village expansion of Columbia, which will include shops, services, restaurants, and more in a planned development that will feature landscaped walking paths and generous common areas.

You can find The Westbury Senior Living at 550 Stone Valley Parkway in Columbia and is scheduled to open in Fall 2021. You can find more information about The Westbury online at www.WestburySeniorLiving.com, by phone at (573) 828-2088, or in person.

“It has required a lot of teamwork, it has required a lot of collaboration, it has required a lot of being creative and flexible.”

Source: Senior Housing News

OPEN SOON!

RESERVE YOUR SELECT APARTMENT TODAY!

(573) 828-2088 • WestburySeniorLiving.com Open weekends and evenings | Walk-in tours welcome | Call today

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SPOTLIGHT

PHOTO BY CARRIE YONLEY

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Get Artside and Enjoy Yourself NEW EVENT VENUE HOSTS PLEIN AIR 2021.

P

ainting “en plein air,”(French for “in

Artists will arrive early to register and

the open air”), is a practice French

prep so they can begin painting at sunrise.

Impressionists began centuries ago,

Titmus says they’re free to paint anywhere

painting light and its changing, transitory

on the property, as well as on certain

qualities in a natural setting. And what

neighboring land.

could be more natural than a 150+ acre setting in New Bloomfield, Missouri?

Any 2D medium — oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastels — is welcome, with

The Mid-Missouri Arts Alliance is hold-

the exception of photography. There’ll be

ing its Plein Air 2021 event at ElderBlossom

different categories and artists must com-

View Winery in nearby New Bloomfield on

plete their artwork entirely in the field

Saturday, Oct. 16.

by the given deadline, except for fram-

According to Tracy Titmus, board

ing, which can occur after artists come

president of the Mid-Missouri Arts Alli-

in from the field. The alliance will supply

ance, “We miss our artists so much that

wire, hooks and basic tools for framing,

we’ve decided to host a one-day Plein Air

along with a table to use, but artists need

event in October at ElderBlossom View

to bring their own frames. The alliance

Winery. It's a beautiful piece of property

will also provide display easels and wire

perfect for painting.”

panels to present the finished artwork on

The winery is intentionally rustic, with

for the reception.

naturalistic grounds and pebbled walkways

The reception/judging will begin at 5

that owners Heather and John Uhlig envi-

p.m. Food trucks and live music will add

sioned as an opportunity to reveal — rather

to the fun. All the day’s artwork will be

than conceal — the rocky attributes of the

for sale, at prices set by each artist. There

winery’s footprint inside the orchard. For

will also be an option for artists to submit

them, the orchard and winery have been a

their work for “the purchase prize” cat-

passion project nine years in the making,

egory. For this option, individuals or busi-

ever since the first elderberry cutting was

nesses have pledged $500 to sponsor an

planted. The Uhligs see the venture "as an

artwork. If it’s sold, the artist earns $300,

opportunity for them as 'elders’ to blossom

with the remaining $200 going to support

and view their next chapter." Plein Air

the alliance’s efforts.

2021 is their first “brush” with a large-scale public event.

So come enjoy the fruits of everyone's labors! elderblossomview.com

BY PEG GILL

Details WHO MID-MISSOURI ARTS ALLIANCE WHAT PLEIN AIR 2021 WHEN OCT. 16, 5 P.M. WHERE ELDERBLOSSOM VIEW WINERY COST FREE ENTRY, FOOD, BEVERAGES AND ARTWORK AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

About The Arts Alliance Originally founded about 10 years ago by a group of artists, the alliance now has 60 members and a storefront in Ashland which houses a gallery and studio space, some of which is for rent. The alliance offers classes for adults and children, and partners with the Southern Boone school district.

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 137

CIVIL ENGINEERING TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING FORENSIC AND INVESTIGATIVE ENGINEERING Allstate Consultants LLC (Allstate) is a civil engineering consulting firm headquartered in Columbia, Missouri, and is committed to diversifying services by hiring competent, hardworking individuals in the disciplines of engineering, surveying, geotechnical and investigation.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING 573- 875-8799 allstateconsultants.net

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138 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

thesuitesatconcorde.com

Inside Columbia

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140 On The Town

142 Dueling DJs

143 ANew View

144

Darkow Draws

CAN YOU “BELEAF” IT?

The season of fall was once called "harvest."

Now we call it either fall or autumn. It’s actually the only time of year with two names: Spring, summer and winter each have only one. Where do you “fall” on this nature nomenclature? Are you “autumn”-atically prone to using one or the other?

146

The Final Word

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ON THE TOWN

Red Shoe Ride/Walk/Run

On August 25, 249 people participated in the Wayne McDaniel Memorial Red Shoe Ride/Walk/Run to reduce the distance families have to travel to be together during their sick child's time of need.

More than $35,000 was raised in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Mid-Missouri. Its mission is to provide a home away from home that serves and sustains families of children being treated at area hospitals and health-related facilities. Participants biked 17, 38 or 62 miles or walked or ran a 5K.

Kevin and Celeste Czaicki

Date

August 25

Location

The Station House at Katfish Katy’s

Benefiting

Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Mid-Missouri

Riders on the 62-mile route

Photos by

Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Mid-Missouri

Addison Smith, Stephanie Smith and Susan Lambert

DuCharme Family

140 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Gage Smith

Melissa, May, Benny and Robin Shryock

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ON THE TOWN

Countdown to Kickoff

Joe Priesmeyer, Mun Choi, Joe Scheppers and Chris Ebright

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri held their annual Countdown to Kickoff at Faurot Field on August 26 featuring Dr. Mun Choi and Coach Eliah Drinkwitz. More than $125,000 was raised to help provide children facing adversity with strong, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better.

Date

August 26

Location

Faurot Field

Benefiting

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri Sabrina McDonnell, Logan Dale and Matt Williams

Nora, Molly and Jay Lindner

Photos by

Wally Pfefer mizzouwally@compuserve.com

Steve Sowers and Amy Hay

Garrett Rucinski and Taylor Burks

Diana and Damian Dean

Joe Priesmeyer, Matt Garrett, Cindy Garrett

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 141

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DUELING DJS

Fun and Games

KIDS’ ACTIVITIES THAT ENTERTAIN THE WHOLE FAMILY. Each issue, two on-air talents from two different Zimmer Communications' stations will voice their opinions on what you might call a controversial topic. This issue, check out Josh Ryan’s and Stephanie’s takes on the best kids' activity in mid-Missouri.

JOSH RYAN,CLEAR 99

STEPHANIE BELL, 93.9 THE EAGLE

Softball is more than just a kids’ game. It builds relationships. It

Some places are fun for kids, but not for adults. That’s not the case

offers valuable life lessons. Softball teaches both kids and parents

with Level Up, my favorite place to take my kiddos (10, 7 and 4).

SOFTBALL

LEVELUP

how to deal with adversity, how to handle confrontation and maybe

My husband and I are super competitive people, so we always

most importantly, it teaches hard work and commitment. That’s why

like to challenge the kids to a game of air hockey. Last time we were

it is THE greatest activity your child can participate in.

there, we settled in (with a cold beverage) for some bowling. Our kids

When my 14-year-old daughter began her softball sojourn, she

bowled well with the help of bumpers, even after refusing to use the

was just nine years old. You’d be amazed at all you can learn about

slides. (A sincere apology to the two people who appeared to be on

your child while you’re just having a simple game of catch. Hitting

a first date on the lane next to our circus. I hope you still want kids

in the backyard is always fun, but you’ll eventually reach the stage

someday.) We laughed and cheered each other on — and my kids

where your neighbor's windows are in jeopardy, and you’ve got to

were super impressed when Mom beat Dad!

hit in a cage. I won’t lie, I’ve had to apologize more than once for an errant fly ball!

But, softball is more than just hitting, throwing and catching. It’s a way to build an amazing relationship with your family! So, grab a bucket of balls, a bat, a glove and your kiddos and get to a local park, an Optimist field, or a rent a batting cage for a couple of hours!

142 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

The kids have enjoyed laser tag and the ropes course with friends at birthday parties and are always begging to go back. As a parent, I love having an all-seasons all-weather activity that the whole family can enjoy!

FASHION

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A NEW VIEW

A New View

BEING A PHOTOGRAPHER, I HAVE ACCESS TO SOME UNIQUE POINTS OF VIEW IN THE COMMUNITY. ASSIGNMENT Beard Contest THE LOCATION The Man Show “Here’s my beard. Ain’t it weird?

Don’t be sceered, just a beard.”

- George Carlin

I’ve noticed that a lot more men have started sporting beards since this COVID pandemic began. I’m guilty of that as well.

I guess the hardest part of growing a beard is seeing people on a day-today basis while your beard gets to that awkward, “is he growing a beard or going through depression?” stage.

COVID has made it easier to get past that part of the process.

We all know that beards come in several shapes and sizes. Some men are more dedicated to filling out and caring for their facial hair. I am sometimes envious when I see a full beard that is nicely trimmed and maintained. It takes years of practice and patience to get to that point of beard nirvana.

I don’t have that beard mentality. I lack the time and confidence. I would like to shave my face, but I’m a bit “sceered” of what’s underneath.

L.G. Patterson

INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 143

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DARKOW DRAWS

144 INSIDE COLUMBIA OCT/NOV 2021

ADVERTISING INDEX

Inside Columbia

Mercedes-Benz of Columbia................. 12

A-Nu-U, LLC.............................................. 74

Miller's Professional Imaging................ 25

Action Tactical - Joe Gilbert.................. 76

Mo Retina Consultants........................... 22

Ammo Alley............................................... 40

MO Symphony.......................................... 36

Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre.................. 147

My Sisters Circus..................................... 15

Artichoke Annie's Antique Mall........... 19

NH Scheppers Distributing.................... 10

Bank of Missouri....................................... 46

Pro Pumping & Hydrojetting.................. 78

BMW of Columbia................................... 21

Rost Landscaping & Superior Gardens. 17

Boone Health............................................. 4

State Farm Insurance - Phyllis Nichols. 131

Broadway, A Doubletree by Hilton....... 51

Suites at Concorde................................... 138

Burrell Behavioral Health ....................... 39, 77

SumnerOne............................................... 136

CCs City Broiler........................................ 2

Sylvan Learning Center........................... 81

CenterPointe Hospital ............................ 25, 73

Terrace Retirement Community............ 123

CenterPointe Hospital............................. 73

Westbury Senior Living........................... 134-135

Central Bank of Boone County.............. 52-53 Central Missouri Dermatology............... 79 Missouri Eye Consultants.............................. 72

CEO

Commerce Bank....................................... 3

Broadway, A Doubletree by Hilton....... 113

Convergence Financial............................ 29

CCs City Broiler........................................ 103

Downtown Appliance.............................. 43

Coil Construction..................................... 89

Fleet Feet Sports Columbia.................... 15

Connection Exchange.............................. 86

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

Mediacom.................................................. 99

Healium...................................................... 80

Mutual of Omaha..................................... 94

Hotel Vandivort........................................ 6

Mutrux Automotive, LLC........................ 90-93

Inside Columbia magazine..................... 20

PCE.............................................................. 96

Iron Muscle Massage.............................. 51

School House Bed & Breakfast.............. 89

Joe Machens Lincoln............................... 5

SumnerOne............................................... 97

Las Margaritas.......................................... 8

Swift............................................................ 84

Legacy Life Services................................. 75

Tiger Court Reporting, LLC..................... 86

Lizzi & Roccos Natural Pet Market....... 32 Lombardo Homes of Columbia............. 124

FASHION INSIDE COLUMBIA OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 145

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THE FINAL WORD

Rebranding Columbia WHEN CIVIC PRIDE IS NOT ENOUGH

BY FRED PARRY

O

ne of the things I enjoy most about my role with Inside Columbia magazine is the opportunity to preside over our CEO Roundtable luncheons. The opportunity to have candid conversations with local community leaders about the issues affecting Columbia is not only invigorating, but it also gives me a profound sense of hope about our future.

Last month, we hosted a luncheon on the topic of Columbia’s economic future. One of the most fascinating ideas to come from this particular luncheon was the notion that Columbia desperately needs to rebrand itself. Surprisingly, there was a high level of agreement that Columbia needs to do a much better job of marketing itself to the outside world.

Now, I have pontificated frequently about how ugly our city is from Interstate 70, Providence Road and the Business Loop.

I’ve also heard, on too many occasions, how the unkept roadway medians now known as “pollinator habitats” make our city look like a city that takes no pride in its appearance. However, our luncheon guests were talking about something much bigger than just aesthetics, they were talking about our reputation on the national and global stage.

Here’s a sampling of their suggestions on how to “re-position” Columbia:

The Start-Up Capitol of the Midwest Columbia needs to do a much better job of leveraging the success of Veterans United, Equipment Share and Beyond Meat when telling its story to the rest of the world. The fact that these fast-growing vibrant companies got their start in Columbia, Missouri is a big deal. We should promote having

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fertile ground for entrepreneurs who want to build something big. Columbia is a great place to get advice and to receive a helping hand. Unfortunately, before we launch this campaign, we need to find more sources for seed and venture capital to help these companies grow. We also need to address the woefully inadequate level of broadband speeds and connectivity in Columbia and Boone County. National internet providers have cherry-picked the easy-to-reach, lucrative spots in town and left gaping holes of poor service everywhere else.

dations. Columbia’s housing crisis has never been more apparent than it has been in the last year. We don’t have affordable housing, nor do we have enough options for upscale rentals. Enough said. Younger generations place a high value on quality of life and work/life balance. There’s a lot of room for improvement in our offerings.

Show Me Better, Please!

The Place Where Great Ideas Collide Later this month, the Roy Blunt NextGen Precision Health Center will open. While this is no doubt going to be a game-changer for Columbia, the story behind the story is all about collaboration and partnerships.

University leaders have created an innovation hub around a large group of multi-disciplinary researchers, a nuclear reactor and a plethora of other assets. That’s collaboration. At the same time, leaders have forged wildly creative partnerships with companies like Siemens and Cerner where academia collides with the business world. The results are nothing short of astonishing. This cultural shift, driven primarily by University of Missouri President Mun Choi, has great implications for Columbia’s future. We need to tell the world about this.

CoMo... A Cool Place to Live Beyond just fixing Columbia’s curb appeal, we need to create spaces where Millennials and those from Generations X, Y and Z want to live. Connectivity is important, but so is nightlife and living accommo-

WARNING: This is going to ruffle some feathers. One of the challenges of promoting Columbia has a lot to do with the fact that the state in which we reside, Missouri, has a pretty awful reputation outside of the Midwest. I’m a proud Missouri native, but I’m often shocked about outsider’s perceptions about our state. Depictions of Missouri in the national media and entertainment industry have helped conjure up images of appliances on front porches, meth labs and Grandma smoking her corncob pipe while playing the banjo. Let’s just say that the Netflix series, "Ozark" hasn’t done us any favors. Of course, none of this may be true, but perception is reality. State officials and their highly paid promoters have done a lousy job of showing the rest of the world the good things about the Show-Me State.

A little bit of civic pride and a whole lot of marketing can go a long way toward making Columbia an attractive destination for the world’s greatest minds. Why not give it a try?

FASHION Fred Parry Founder & Publisher Emeritus fred@insidecolumbia.net

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