Prime February

FEBRUARY 2015

PLUS

c h a m pa gne F the Mov rom ies (P AGE

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Warmth for the Winter Hearty Stews And Sweet Love Stories

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February 2015

Contents 8

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Volume 6, Issue 11

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On The Road With Ray Traveling Up The Mississippi

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Tasting Room Champagnes From The Silver Screen

10 True Love Readers Share Their Valentine’s Stories 15 Prime Time Can’t-Miss Events For February

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20 Heart Health Signs Of Heart Attack & Stroke

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22 Life Lessons So Over Overindulging 24 Tinseltown Talks Rich Little Still Impresses 26 Tell Me About It Get Angel’s Relationship Advice 28 Fun & Games Crossword, Sudoku, Tiger Vision & More

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32 Recipe Box Savory Pork Stew 34 Reader’s Share ’60s & ’70s Slang

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38 Columbia Confidential Publisher Fred Parry Takes On The Issues Columbians Are Talking About Prime Magazine February 2015

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Welcome

All For Love

staff

Just a couple of months before my 30th birthday, my mom — a woman who loved taking care of others, and her children and grandchildren especially — passed away from cancer. I have two older sisters, and Mom had thrown a surprise 30th birthday party for each of them. I was not up to celebrating and told my sisters I absolutely did not want a party. They understood.

When my birthday came, I was camping with my husband, dad, daughter and son at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park. It was a good distraction. Then, when we returned, I opened our mailbox and found it filled with birthday cards! I later found out that one of my sisters had organized a card shower for me. Going through the stack of cards, I was so thankful for the love and care friends and family members had sent me with their birthday wishes.

February is the month of love, not just breathless romantic love but also enduring, sacrificial love of friends, parents, siblings, spouses, teachers — even strangers. We at Prime put out a call for short stories of memorable acts of love and received several heartwarming responses, gathered in this month’s feature on Page 10. Most of the stories in our collection are about simple acts made powerful because of the love behind them.

That’s something to remember as I think of how I want to show friends and family some love, this Valentine’s Day and other times, too. Big, elaborate gestures might get more attention, but small, thoughtful acts can mean just as much, sometimes more.

Consider these stories our Valentine’s gift to you, and have a happy month celebrating love!

Publisher Fred Parry

Prime Magazine is published by OutFront Communications, 47 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203, 573-442-1430. Copyright OutFront Communications, 2013. The magazine is published 12 times a year on the first day of every month. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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Associate Publisher Melody Garnett Parry Associate Publisher & Executive Editor Sandy Selby Managing Editor Anita Neal Harrison Graphic Designer Alyssa Blevins Trever Griswold Joe Waner Photo Editor L.G. Patterson Marketing Representatives Rosemarie Peck Samantha Cook Joe Schmitter Operations Manager Kalie Clennin Operations Assistant Lilly Smith Finance Manager Brenda Brooks Distribution Manager John Lapsley Social Media / Digital Editor Drew Van Dyke Contributing Writers Kathy Casteel, Saralee Perel, Angel Donnette Robertson, Ray Speckman, Nick Thomas

SERVING THE BOOMER & SENIOR MARKETS

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On The Road With Ray

Northward Along The Mississippi Sights To See Traveling Up Ol’ Man River

BY RAY SPECKMAN

Mississippi River at Davenport, Iowa

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When spring arrives, warm winds and green grass will beckon me to travel northward once again and continue my exploration of the upper Mississippi River.

One place I look forward to revisiting is the historic Mormon town of Nauvoo, Ill., where the road meanders alongside the Mississippi River and provides occasional glimpses of barges and leisure boats.

From Nauvoo, it’s less than an hour north to Burlington, Iowa, a town of woolen mills dominated by the steeple of St. John’s Catholic Church.

Burlington is home to Big Muddy’s Bar and Grill, situated below a bridge in a historic railroad freight house.

The river is close, very close — during spring rains, high water sometimes laps at the restaurant’s front door.

The food at Big Muddy’s is varied, excellent and well-priced, and the views of river activity are spellbinding. The traffic sometimes waits for hours to be locked through the Mississippi River Lock and Dam No. 18.

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That lock and dam is one of 27 between St. Louis and Minneapolis.

In essence, the Corps of Engineers has built a water stairway to allow consistent river levels for navigation on the Mississippi. In the approximately 650 river miles between St. Louis and Minneapolis, the river’s elevation drops from about 670 feet above sea level in Minnesota to 395 feet at Missouri’s largest city.

One other must see in Burlington is the Steamboat Stop Country Store, located on Main Street. It houses a quality gift shop in a former tenement home that dates to 1841.

Moving back across the river, it’s a northward drive to the village of Keithsburg, Ill. Finding the village can be a chore. Expect some confusing road markers, but keep going. The food, drink and view at the Lighthouse Tap & Restaurant are worth the trouble.

Located atop one of the many levees that girdle the river, the restaurant has an 80-foot bar offering a view of the

barges coming into sight. These barges turn in the water as they float by, and special drink prices are given each time a barge passes.

The restaurant is a place for watching the rolling, moving and constantly changing river but also a place for fine vittles as people of all ages clamor to get a seat and enjoy the fine, reasonably priced food.

A short drive northward leads to the Quad Cities of Moline and Rock Island in Illinois and Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa. A multitude of experiences awaits in these cities. For sure, a drive around Arsenal Island on the Illinois side is interesting. Stately homes of high-ranking military officers are surrounded by emerald-green, riverside fairways. The pleasure craft and paddle-wheeling hotels seem to float above ground level — and, in fact, do.

Levees along the river hold back the mighty river.

Just south of Arsenal Island is the best place to view the boats lock-

Mississippi River Lock and Dam No. 1

ing through a lock and dam on the Mississippi. You can stand on the viewing area provided by the Corps of Engineers and talk with the crewmen as they maneuver the barges through the locks, as well as with the tourists as they float through, enjoying the recreational highway of the Mississippi.

From Davenport, a trip north presents some of the finest vistas along the river and estates and homes on a slight rise to the west.

On both sides of the river north of the Quad Cities, the scenery is beautiful.

On the Iowa side, there are spectacular high-ridge vistas, and on the Illinois, quaint places and curving roads. The same choice continues north of Clinton, Iowa. Having traveled both sides, I’ve concluded each has its own special lure, and I cannot choose a favorite.

Eventually the river roads lead to Savanna, Ill., or Sabula, Iowa. Whatever the route, Sabula is a town that must be visited. It is a town actually located on an island in the Mississippi River, connected to land by causeways and bridges. It must be explored and will be as past travels are remembered and planned again. â?–

Ray Speckman can be found looking at maps or at rayspeckman@emmesattic.com.

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The Tasting Room

Star Power

Romance Sparkles With These Champagnes From The Silver Screen

BY KATHY CASTEEL

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Champagne and romance take the spotlight in February. Add some glamour to your celebrations this month with legendary sparklers that have graced the silver screen. Here’s an all-star lineup worthy of Oscar’s nod.

James Bond’s taste in Champagne is as exquisite as his taste in leading ladies. Throughout the James Bond film franchise, 007 has divided his loyalties between the prestige cuvées of Dom Pérignon, featured in earlier Bond movies, and Bollinger, Bond’s exclusive go-to bubbly since the late ’80s. In 2012, Bollinger celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Bond films with a special release.

The Champagne flows freely in “Casablanca,” where the proprietor of Rick’s Café Américain plies his nightclub guests with only the best in Nazi-controlled Morocco. While local police captain Louis Renault and his Gestapo pals indulge in Veuve Clicquot, star-crossed lovers Rick and Ilsa seem to prefer Mumm Cordon Rouge, so much so that in their earlier

Paris romance they attempted to get with a bent toward excess — he serves through every bottle in the city before the his favorite sparkler Moët & Chandon’s Germans arrived, threatening to water the Impérial by the bottle, the magnum and garden with Champagne rather than let the the case, in fountains and pyramids, and Nazis have it. even gargantuan oversized bottles. Moët Another Nazi-era thriller, Alfred & Chandon was so ubiquitous in scenes, Hitchcock’s 1946 classic “Notorious,” it should have had a co-star credit in features Bouchard Père & Fils this movie’s salute to opulence.

Champagne at the start Want to feel like a of Devlin and Alicia’s Hollywood insider?

“Maybe I romance. A ChampagneServe Piper-Heidsieck misjudged you, soaked party at the crux Champagne at your Oscar of the plot includes cases watch party on Feb. 22.

Stromberg. Any of iced-down Piper Brut.

The Reims Champagne man who drinks Wine aficionado Hitchcock house is a favorite of the Dom Pérignon ’52 American movie industry, is credited with starting Hollywood’s love affair with can’t be all bad.” first appearing onscreen bubbly — his 1928 silent in the 1934 Laurel and — James Bond, movie “Champagne” opened Hardy classic “Sons of the and closed with iconic shots “The Spy Who Loved Me” Desert.” A longtime favorite through the bottom of a of Hollywood movie stars, Champagne coupe.

Piper-Heidsieck is the Most recently, the 2013 remake celebratory brand of Oscar winners and of “The Great Gatsby” showcases Jay the official Champagne of the Cannes Gatsby’s ardent love for Champagne Film Festival.❖

Marilyn Monroe started a ’50s trend of dunking potato chips in Champagne, declaring it “real crazy” in “The Seven Year Itch.”

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TRUE LOV E A C OL L E C T I ON O F READERS ’ LO VE S TO RI ES

Everyone knows chocolate is a sweet treat for Valentine’s Day, but memories are the sweetest indulgence of all. Savor these recollections of love from Prime readers and friends.

By ANITA NEAL HARRISON • Illustrations By TREVER GRISWOLD

THANKS TO MY VALENTINE MARIN BLEVINS

When battling cancer no one really knows what to expect. The only predictable thing I could count on was my wife being there the whole time.

I wanted to have a very special Valentine’s Day for her. A friend was in a quartet and the group wanted to come over and sing to her. Another friend from KOMU-TV 8 wanted to develop a story for the 6 and 10 o’clock news. No one wanted pay. They simply

wanted to contribute to a very special Valentine’s.

It couldn’t have been better. They came to our home, sung several songs, my wife got roses, and my wife and I were interviewed for a Valentine’s story.

I figure this is simply a good start of many future paybacks for all the stress I caused. Cancer isn’t an easy thing to come back from, but my family and friends make the recovery a bit more tolerable.

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this act together.”

“Oh my god,” I thought. “He was sending me a message” — a much-needed message during that first year of marriage. I turned the others over. There was a message on each one, each one bringing a memory.

And on and on they came. Sometimes for a special occasion. Mostly not. But always memorable, always in my heart.

LOVE WORKS A MIRACLE JULIE MIDDLETON

LOVE FINDS A WAY

We will be eternally grateful for the outpouring of love given to our little micro preemie grandbaby. He was born weighing one pound, three ounces in May. Devoted nurses and doctors gave of themselves around the clock, providing incredible love and care.

I had never before witnessed firsthand the work of the March of Dimes. Many times, we found a craft, a picture of the baby or a handprint or footprint next to the crib in the neonatal intensive care unit. The March of Dimes placed these to encourage the family.

The outpouring of love and prayers from friends and family around the country touched our hearts.

After three months in the hospital, our little fighter, Deacon, came home to his big sister, parents and grandparents, who could not wait to finally hold him as long as we wanted.

Today, we call Deacon our miracle baby, as we look with love and joy upon him at a whopping 16 pounds.

What a treasured blessing he is!

JOHN WILLIAMS

HE TAUGHT ME TO CHERISH PRECIOUS MOMENTS JEANNE DZURICK

A few months into our marriage, my husband handed me an unwrapped box and said, “For you.”

When I opened it, I saw it was a Precious Moments clown couple riding a unicycle. I tried to sound pleased, but my only thought was: “Well, he has said that everyone needs to collect something, so I suppose I am collecting Precious Moments. And I am not a Precious Moments person.”

The figurines kept coming. After three or four, they were trouble. They needed to be dusted, and I had to find a place to put them.

One day, I lifted the little clown couple and glanced at the bottom. On it was written, “Lord, help us keep 12

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When my father was a new Army recruit in 1942, serving at a base in Tennessee, he received a letter from home telling him my older sister had been born. New recruits were not allowed to venture beyond the next town, so traveling to northern Missouri was out of the question. But Dad decided to take his two-day pass and try to get back to see his new family, essentially going AWOL. At the train station, he found all of the trains full. As he was leaving, a young lady, already on the train, lowered her window and invited him to climb aboard, through the window, and sit on her suitcase.

As the train traveled through the night, the military police came through asking for soldiers’ travel papers.

The young lady instructed my father to feign sleep, whereupon she told the MPs that he was her husband and that getting his papers out would unnecessarily wake him. The exhausted MPs let it pass.

My father disembarked in St. Louis, still more than 150 miles from home. He thumbed a ride with a middle-aged gentleman who told him he could take him about halfway home. Exhausted, Dad dozed off only to awaken later to find himself in a car going at a high rate of speed, well north of the destination he and his driver had agreed upon. The older man explained that he was determined to get him home to see his new baby, as soon as possible. An hour or so later, the car pulled up to a country road. It was a one-mile hike from there.

Dad was able to spend only 12 hours with his new family, after which he returned, in time, to the Army base, thanks to a train ticket paid for by his favorite uncle.

It would be three years before Dad would see my sister and mother again. Had it not been for two perfect strangers’ acts of kindness, and one from an uncle, Dad’s act of love would not have succeeded, and he would’ve gone a whole world war with no memories of the daughter he left behind.

LOVE’S HEROES

A GIFT FOR GRANNY PAM

MARY SUE O’BANNON

PAMELA INGRAM, GRANNY’S HOUSE DIRECTOR

There are many kinds of love. One of the strongest is the love of a parent for a child. During my 25 years as a teacher of special needs children, I have seen the powerful effect of parents’ love for their children. These parents gave up their careers to care for their children. They fed, diapered and bathed their children long after most parents had stopped. They spent hours at the hospital while their children went through surgery. They spent more hours helping them recuperate at home, and the children, receiving such love, often far exceeded doctor’s expectations.

For their acts of love, these parents are heroes.

At Granny’s House, we so want to create unforgettable moments for the public housing kids who cross our threshold. This past Christmas, we celebrated the holiday with sweet mini cupcakes, chocolate bits wrapped in red and green foil, and, of course, presents for all. Little did I know that I was included in that evening’s “all.” Someone stepped forward with a gift for Granny Pam! I opened it and found a little purple leather journal filled with the kids’ prayers and wellwishes for me.

I long ago reckoned that the fruit of my time at Granny’s House will most likely remain unknown to me until that Final Day. This was one of those times, however, when I realized my meager efforts to shine unblemished, no-strings-attached love on public housing kids who need it had not gone unnoticed.

Their little purple book was, for me, a great big bundle of pure love!

WHEN A MAN LOVES A WOMAN JULIA PIMBLETT

A couple in their nineties lived in my apartment building in New York City. In the midst of a severe thunderstorm, I came upon the man struggling up the hill toward our building with no umbrella and clutching a paper bag. I put him under my umbrella and walked him home. I asked him why he had braved the storm on such a terrible night. He indicated his package and responded, “She wanted ice cream.”

LOVE’S UNCONQUERABLE SPIRIT DIANNE LYNCH, STEPHENS COLLEGE PRESIDENT

In 2012, a fire destroyed the home of one of Stephens College’s beloved and longstanding employees. He managed to rescue his beloved dog from the fire but lost everything else.

I sent an email to the Stephens community alerting them to our friend’s need, and within 24 hours, employees had donated more than $3,000 in cash, plus a roomful of household items — enough to restore everything he had lost and more.

A few years earlier, I had received a note from a student that read: “Please don’t underestimate the difference you can make here. We are small in number, but we have an enormous, unconquerable spirit.”

I shared those lines with the Stephens community when I emailed a note of thanks.

“Your support and friendship restored his spirit today,” I wrote, “and we are a community unlike any other because you care so much.”

I can’t imagine a more memorable act of love than the immediate and generous response of a community to the needs of one of its own. That’s what love — and an unconquerable spirit — are all about. v Prime Magazine February 2015

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Prime Time

02.15 February FEBRUARY 1, 5–8 The Columbia Entertainment Company presents “Cinderella.” The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. Originally presented on television in 1957, it was the most widely viewed program in the history of the medium. As a stage production, it exudes great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity. The hearts of adults and children alike still soar when the slipper fits. $12 adults, $11 students, $10 children & seniors; 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. Sunday matinee; 1800 Nelwood Drive; 573-474-3699; www.cectheatre.org

FEBRUARY 4–8 Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame” pares down human existence to what is left after every other option is taken away. This stark, absurdist tragicomedy challenges us to find comic moments in the despair of four people facing the end of the world. Don’t miss this meditation on death, dependency and wit presented at the Corner Playhouse by the MU department of theatre. $12 general admission, $10 faculty, staff, students & seniors; 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. Sunday matinee; University Avenue at Hitt Street; 573-882-2021; www.theatre.missouri.edu

FEBRUARY 5 The high-flying Texas A&M Aggies pay a visit to Mizzou Arena to face off against the Tigers for an SEC showdown in women’s hoops. $5 adult, $3 seniors & youths; 8 p.m.; 1 Champions Drive; 800-CATPAWS (228-7297); www.mutigers.com

FEBRUARY 6 On the first Friday of every month, the North Village Arts District collectively opens its doors for First Fridays in The North Village Arts District, encouraging residents, visitors and tourists to explore and appreciate the ever-growing collections of art and entertainment that diversify and energize our community. Enjoy free entertainment and light refreshments.

Free; 6 to 9 p.m.; downtown; 573-8646641; www.northvillageartsdistrict.org

FEBRUARY 11 Music director David Robertson and the St. Louis Symphony are bringing their talent to the Missouri Theatre as part of the University Concert Series. As the second-oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, the St. Louis Symphony is internationally renowned as an ensemble of the highest caliber, performing a broad musical repertoire with skill and spirit. From $31; 7 p.m.; 203 S. Ninth St.; 573-882-3781; www.concertseries.org

FEBRUARY 6–8 Stephens College presents “Antigone” in Macklanburg Playhouse. In a world fraught with moral compromise, how does one maintain personal integrity — and at what cost? That’s the dilemma faced by faithful sister Antigone as she mourns her two dead brothers in this adaptation of Sophocles’ classic Greek tragedy. Enjoy this timeless tale of rebellion, passion and power as seen through a modern lens. $14 adults, $7 students & seniors; 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6 & 7, 2 p.m. matinees Feb. 7 & 8; 100 Willis Ave.; 573-876-7257; www.stephens.edu

FEBRUARY 7 It’s the next best thing to actual Led Zeppelin — it’s Led Zeppelin 2 at The Blue Note. Led Zeppelin 2 – The Live Experience brings you the excitement of Led Zeppelin “in concert” by re-enacting the live improvisa-

tion and onstage interaction that earned the group its legendary status for performing.

Rather than a “greatest hits” show, you get to experience Zeppelin as Zeppelin would have played in front of an audience. $10; doors open at 8 p.m., show at 9; 17 N. Ninth St., 573-874-1944, www.thebluenote.com

FEBRUARY 8 Spend An Evening With Branford Marsalis at the Missouri Theatre. The talented saxophonist hasn’t appeared as part of the “We Always Swing” Jazz in the District Series since 2010. Marsalis will be joined by pianist Joey Calderazzo, bassist Eric Revis and drummer Justin Faulkner. The Branford Marsalis quartet is one of the most cohesive, intense small jazz ensembles on the scene today. From $25; doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7; 203 S. Ninth St., 573-449-3009, ext. 1; www.wealwaysswing.org Prime Magazine February 2015

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FEBRUARY 10 Come to the cabaret, old chum, at the Missouri Theatre to see Liza Minnelli in her Oscar-winning role as Sally Bowles in “Cabaret.” The 1972 film about songand-dance performers at the Kit Cat Club in Berlin during the rise of Nazi Germany won eight Academy Awards. $8; 7 p.m.; 203 S. Ninth St.; 573-882-3781; www.concertseries.org

FEBRUARY 14 The University Concert Series presents “Sid the Science Kid,” an incredible live stage experience at the Missouri Theatre.

Kids and grandparents alike will be thrilled as Sid, May, Gabriela and Gerald set off on a day of excitement and adventure, exploring their five senses though fun games and experiments. Teacher Susie is also along to keep the music flowing as the kids explore the world around them with audience-interactive activities, cooperative problem-solving and plenty of laughs to go around. From $19 adults, $15 children; 2 p.m.; 203 S. Ninth St.; 573-882-3781; www.concertseries.org

FEBRUARY 14 Catch a sweetheart of a game when the Mizzou Tigers host the Mississippi State Bulldogs in men’s basketball in an afternoon matchup at Mizzou Arena. Mizzou RAH! From $30; 3 p.m.; 1 Champions Drive; 800-CAT-PAWS (228-7297); www.mutigers.com

FEBRUARY 15 Mizzou’s nationally ranked wrestling team hosts American University in the Hearnes Center for the first-round of National Duals. $5 adult; $3 youth & seniors; noon; 600 E. Stadium Blvd.; 800-CATPAWS (228-7297); www.mutigers.com 16

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FEBRUARY 15 Unleash your pedal power for the Rocheport Roubaix, Columbia’s only gravel bike race. This winter adventure by bike will take you through plenty of scenic Missouri countryside. Choose between 30, 55 or 70 miles. Entry fees vary by race length and date of registration; 30-mile begins 11 a.m., 55-mile 11:30 a.m., 70-mile 12:30 p.m.; downtown Rocheport; 573-4452664; www.ultramaxsports.com/roubaix

FEBRUARY 19 It’s a crosstown battle when the Stephens College Stars host the Columbia College Cougars in women’s basketball. Catch all the CoMo action at Silverthorne Arena on the Stephens campus. $5, free for Stephens students; 7 p.m.; Dorsey Street; www.stephens.edu/events

FEBRUARY 19 Martin Sexton brings his haunting and masterful music to Rose Music Hall (formerly Mojo’s). Sexton is one of the most beloved and talked-about performers of the “new folk” revival, known for his captivating, almost hypnotic performances.

His brilliant compositional sense and astounding vocal range make for a fascinating live act. $22 advance, $25 at the door; doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8; 1013 Park Ave.; 573-875-0588; www.mojoscolumbia.com

FEBRUARY 19–21 The Missouri State High School Activities Association hosts the state high school wrestling tournament in Mizzou Arena.

Come out and watch the best in Show-Me State grappling. $8 per session; 10 a.m. & 5 p.m. Thursday, 9:30 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. Saturday; 1 Champions Drive; 573-875-4880; www.mshsaa.org Prime Magazine February 2015

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FEBRUARY 19–21 & 26–March 1 The MU department of theatre presents “The Whipping Man” at Rhynsburger Theatre. As the Civil War ends, a wounded Confederate soldier returns to find his plantation home in ruins, occupied by two of his family’s former slaves. Bound by history and the Jewish faith they share, the three men are forced to confront the changing social order as deeply buried secrets are revealed that could cost each of them their freedom. $12 general admission, $10 faculty, staff, students & seniors; 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m. matinees; University Avenue at Hitt Street; 573-882-2021; www.theatre.missouri.edu

FEBRUARY 19–22 Four young Catholic suffragettes in early 20th-century New York City adopt birth control pioneer Margaret Sanger as their patron saint in “What Every Girl Should Know,” presented by Stephens College in Warehouse Theatre. NYtheatre.com says: “Top to bottom, start to finish, ‘What Every Girl Should Know’ is an excellent piece of theatre … as long as women’s reproductive rights rages on, [this is] a story people need to keep telling.” $8 adults, $6 students & seniors; 7:30 p.m. Feb 19–21, 2 p.m. Sunday matinee Feb. 22; 104 Willis Ave.; www.stephens.edu/events

FEBRUARY 20 The cats will be struttin’ when Mizzou gymnastics hosts the Auburn Tigers in an SEC meet in the Hearnes Center. Hear those MU fans roar! $5 adult; $3 youth & seniors; 600 E. Stadium Blvd.; 800-CATPAWS (228-7297); www.mutigers.com

FEBRUARY 25 The Okie from Muskogee makes a concert stop in CoMo. Merle Haggard and The Strangers take the stage of the Missouri Theatre for an evening of legendary country music. Haggard is the “poet of the common man,” and his music is classic Americana.

From $49; 7 p.m.; 203 S. Ninth St.; 573882-3781; www.concertseries.org

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FEBRUARY 26 It’s Cougars vs. Owls when Columbia College hosts William Woods University in men’s basketball. Check out the American Midwest Conference game in Southwell Arena. $8 adults, $5 students; 7:30 p.m.; Pannell Street; 573-875-7454; www.columbiacougars.com

FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 1 An eagerly anticipated Stephens College tradition, the Spring Dance Concert in Macklanburg Playhouse features a variety of dance forms such as classical ballet, modern and contemporary dance. The evening’s highlight is a selection of world dances choreographed by visiting guest artists. This is a must-see event for lovers of dance or anyone intrigued by the diverse beauty of the human experience. $16 adults, $8 students and seniors; 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 27–28, 2 p.m. matinee March 1; 100 Willis Ave.; 573-876-7194; www.stephens.edu/events

FEBRUARY 28 Chilly weather calls for chili! Head out to the Expo Center at the Holiday Inn Executive Center for the 10th Annual MFA Oil Rootin’ Tootin’ Chili Cookoff, where you can sample chili to your heart’s content from the offerings of more than 50 teams.

The cook-off raises money for the Boys & Girls Club of Columbia. $10 in advance, $12 at the door, free for children 5 & younger; 2 to 6 p.m.; 2200 I-70 Drive S.W.; www.rtchilicookoff.com

SAVE THE DATE MARCH 5–8

Pass the popcorn, it’s True/False Film Fest time! Movie lovers from all over the world descend on CoMo the first weekend of March and swarm over downtown to snag premier views of the hottest documentaries of the year. The four-day festival includes films (of course), concerts, art rambles, filmmaker talks, parties, a 5K run and more. $30 to $800 for passes, from $10 single tickets, $7 students; various downtown venues; 573-442-TRUE (8783); www.truefalse.org Prime Magazine February 2015

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Health

Know The Signs Learn How To Spot A Heart Attack Or Stroke

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When someone is having a heart attack or a stroke, every second counts.

The American Heart Association reports medications and treatments, including clot-busting drugs, can stop some heart attacks and strokes in progress, reducing disability and saving lives. But to be effective, these drugs must be given relatively quickly after heart attack or stroke symptoms first appear.

Know the signs of heart attack and stroke, and if you see or have any of these symptoms, immediately call 9-1-1.

HEART ATTACK WARNING SIGNS Some heart attacks are sudden and intense — the “movie heart attack,” where no one doubts what’s happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Whenever any of these symptoms occur, it’s time to get help.

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

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• Discomfort elsewhere in the upper body. A heart attack can cause pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath. Breathlessness can occur with or without chest discomfort.

• Cold sweat, nausea or light-headedness.

The most common heart attack symptom in men and women is chest pain or discomfort; women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

STROKE WARNING SIGNS The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association have teamed up for a public awareness campaign to help people spot a stroke F.A.S.T. The letters stand for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty and Time to call 9-1-1.

• Face drooping. Does one side of the face droop, or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Do both sides of the mouth lift?

• Arm weakness. Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms.

Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech difficulty. Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.” Is the sentence repeated correctly?

• Time to call 9-1-1. If the person shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get them to the hospital immediately.

Beyond F.A.S.T., other stroke symptoms to know include sudden numbness or weakness of the legs; sudden confusion or trouble understanding; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; and sudden severe headache with no known cause.

A TIA, or transient ischemic attack, is a “warning stroke” or “mini-stroke” that produces stroke-like symptoms. TIA symptoms usually only last a few minutes, but if left untreated, people who have TIAs have a high risk of stroke.

Recognizing and treating TIAs can reduce the risk of a major stroke. v

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Life Lessons

So Over Overindulging Food Does Not Have To Be Our Enemy

BY SARALEE PEREL

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Weight gain isn’t funny.

It’s a struggle to my mind — all too often preoccupied with how much I’ve eaten. It’s a struggle to my body — all too often seesawing back and forth between losing pounds and regaining them.

Weight loss is about learning to eat and enjoy food, not about dieting and denying the pleasure of food.

I entered the cycles of anorexia, bulimia and compulsive eating in my late teens. Binge eating and then purging became a way to trick my body into having it all. But it was horrible.

In my teens, I hid fast-food burgers under my bed so my mother wouldn’t know. With a flashlight, I’d eat them in the quiet of the night. Mother was on my case about food. She meant well. But emotional scars remained. Food became my enemy.

A close friend of mine is a brilliant psychiatrist who helps others live to their

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fullest. So what’s our main subject? Food.

We have common pitfalls, such as the I’ve-already-blown-it-so-I-may-aswell-eat-everything mentality. Or we’ll say, “I won’t have this chance to eat this homemade bread until heaven-knowswhen, so I may as well eat a ton of it.”

We blame our metabolism. We eat way beyond the point of the food tasting good. Why? Because it’s there. And, of course, our favorite clothes are black.

What’s the first thing most of us think about when we see a picture of Oprah?

It’s not her world-renowned unselfishness. It’s her weight.

If you saw me today, you’d think: “Weight problems? It’s easy for her to say.” You see, today I’m at a good weight. But last year I was more than 50 pounds heavier.

Friends want to know how I did it.

The answer is I stopped kidding myself about what and why I was eating. And I

learned to truly love to eat.

Diets don’t work for me. If I eliminate certain foods, I’m going to go hogwild when I eat them.

I enjoy food more now, but I think about what I’m doing. I ask myself, “Am I eating because I’m hungry?”

Sometimes I still eat compulsively, to attempt to quell bad emotions, or because the first 10 bites tasted so good that the next 10 should taste even better (though they never do). Or because it’s a special occasion. (There are lots of things I construe as special occasions.)

The list goes on and on.

After overindulging, the hardest thing has been to say to myself: “Put it behind you. It doesn’t make it better to berate myself. It just makes it worse.”

And so, maybe we shouldn’t resolve to lose weight. Perhaps instead, we should resolve to feel better about ourselves, to be kind to ourselves, no matter what we weigh. In actuality, that will result in a healthier weight, but it will be coming at it from a different angle.

Eating for the wrong reasons just makes us angry, depressed and disappointed. We can decide to enjoy food more rather than less. Because when we eat compulsively, we do not like it — neither the taste nor the experience.

Eating for the pleasure of eating results in enjoying it more — and weighing less — because we’re not kidding ourselves about what we’re eating and why we’re eating it.

I’d like to eat and live the same way, with appreciation and gratitude, with passion and gusto.

And real, real, real honest-to-goodness hunger. v Award-winning nationally syndicated columnist Saralee Perel can be reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com or via her website: www.saraleeperel.com.

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Tinseltown Talks

Still Impressing Rich Little Continues His Career of Many Voices

BY NICK THOMAS PHOTOS PROVIDED BY RICH LITTLE

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Veteran comedian and impressionist Rich Little is still zigzagging the country doing one-man shows.

Impressions have been Little’s stock and trade since his school days in Ottawa, Canada.

“I would answer teachers’ questions in their own voices,” says Little, 76, from his home in Las Vegas. “Pretty soon, they stopped asking me questions!”

Today, crowds flock to see the man who claims a repertoire of more than 200 voices. Compared to an ordinary comedian, Little says, impressionists have double-duty on stage.

“You’ve got to do a convincing impression and also tell jokes in that character,” he explains. “It’s really all

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about concentration when you do impressions, and becoming the person.

Sometimes when I really get into Johnny Carson, I’ll come off stage and find myself writing out an alimony check!”

While Little’s performances focus mostly on deceased actors, celebrities and politicians, such as John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, George Burns and Ronald Reagan, he also tackles more contemporary personalities.

“You have to keep it topical,” he says.

“I don’t know what the future holds for me, but if Hillary becomes president, I may be in big trouble!”

Although Little does some female impressions, such as Dr. Ruth, Carol Channing and Jean Stapleton, he says

Mrs. Clinton is tough to mimic.

“She needs to develop a lisp or a rasp or twitch to make her a little more distinctive,” he says.

While he does a convincing Jack Nicholson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Willie Nelson, George Bush and Bill Clinton, impersonating today’s younger stars is challenging due to their lack of distinguishing voices and body language.

“So many of the stars of the silverscreen era had distinctive voices, walks, hand gestures and facial mannerisms,” Little says. “But how do you do Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp or Leonardo DiCaprio? Their voices just aren’t that distinctive. Even Robert Redford is near impossible to do.”

In addition to his vocal talents, Little also draws sketches of celebrities.

“I’ve dabbled in art all my life, charcoal portraits mostly,” he says. “I’ve done hundreds of sketches over the years. I guess I have these people in my head, and I can put that down on paper as well as voice. I’ve also done people other than the ones I imitate, like Meryl Streep and Tom Cruise. I did a pretty good portrait of Tom, but it wasn’t easy because he kept bouncing up and down on the sofa!”

Despite the strain that impressionists place on their vocal chords, Little says his voice has held up well over the years.

He has never taken voice lessons or studied the science of speech, relying on natural talent and hard work.

“I just listen over and over again to a new voice and practice until I get it right,” he says.

And, no, his voice is not insured.

“I once contacted Lloyd’s of London, but they wanted something like $50,000 a year to insure my voice,” he says.

So has Rich ever been tempted to use his talents to mimic a celebrity for personal gain? Well, sort of, he says.

“Years ago when I was starting out, I ordered room service as Cary Grant — and found he got much faster service than Rich Little usually did. When the food arrived and they asked for Mr. Grant, I just took the food and said he was in the shower.”

Of course, not all his impressions commanded the same respect.

“I once ordered a cheeseburger as Richard Nixon,” he recalls. “I’m still waiting for it.” ❖

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns and interviews for more than 500 magazines and newspapers.

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Prime Advice

Tell Me About It

With Angel Donnette Robertson

Q:

My son and daughter-in-law were six-months pregnant with a little boy — their first baby and our first grandchild — when she had a miscarriage. I hurt so much for the two of them. How can I help them through such a difficult time?

A:

I am so sorry for the loss of your precious baby.

Everyone grieves in his or her own way, so you need to guard against your expectations on how each individual should react or what each should need. Sometimes, we inadvertently try to control another’s healing through our own preconceptions.

Instead, you should consider their personalities, watch their behavior, engage in a dialogue with them and focus on their specific needs, as best you can.

If they need to talk through their grief, listen to them.

If they need silence, give them quiet. If they need someone to cook, clean or shop for them, offer your services.

If they just need to not be alone, stay with them. If they need solitude to grieve, allow them space. If they need to find a support group, assist them in their search.

You should also avoid offering a pat phrase in an attempt to comfort. Sometimes, words that are well-meant actually minimize their loss and invalidate their grief.

Usually, simply saying, “I’m sorry,” or asking, “How are you?” or “How can I help you today?” is more useful and comforting than an attempt to explain the unexplainable.

Also you should continue to remember the parents as time passes. Some dates may bring particular anguish, such as the due date and future would-have-been birthdays.

Finally, you, too, have suffered a loss. As well as your sorrow for your son and his wife, you are grieving for your grandson. You already loved the little boy. You probably

even already had plans and dreams for him. So, please, do not overlook giving yourself the time to mourn the loss of your grandson in your own way.

Q:

How can I make my husband hang up his wet towel after a shower? Every morning, after he leaves for work, I go to take my own shower and find his wet towel in a ball on the floor, and every day, I nearly lose my mind. It may seem silly, but I just feel so disrespected when I see that he has once again left it for me.

How hard is it to hang up a towel?

A:

Ah, the wonders of marriage. Two individuals working together to build one life, sharing love and laughter, happiness and heartache, failures and successes.

And surviving those crazy-making, infuriating little habits that creep into day-after-day life.

Does your husband also leave his dirty clothes lying wherever they fall? Does he leave dishes in the living room floor for you to retrieve? Does he basically leave chaos behind him?

If he just generally expects you to clean up after him, then his actions may reveal a lack of respect for you.

Have a relationship question for Angel? Contact her through her blog at www.angeldonnette.wordpress.com.

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However, if the towel is an isolated incident, then you are probably dealing with a habit rather than actual disrespect.

Either way, you can approach him — calmly and rationally, which may require you to wait a length of time after finding the wet towel — to discuss your preferences. Many therapists suggest using “I” statements like, “I feel disrespected when I find your wet towel on the floor.” Obviously, you don’t want to yell, “Even a 5-year-old can hang up a towel!”

Well, I mean, you may want to.

But you shouldn’t.

In the end, you cannot make him change. He may always leave his wet towel on the floor. Or he may change and then you discover he has another even more annoying habit.

So, whenever you start to lose your mind, remember what you love about him — his kindness, his humor, his work ethic, his willingness to watch romantic comedies with you.

Whatever you need to refocus your attention off the bad and onto the good.

Because, hopefully, in the grand scope of your marriage, a towel is just a towel.

And love is love. v

— Angel Donnette Robertson is not a professional counselor, but she has a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and complications of relationships.

MEMOIR PROMPT If you could teach your child or grandchild just one life lesson, which one would you share?

When and how did you learn the life lesson? Was it a one-time lesson or more of a lifelong lesson? Why is it the lesson you would choose to share?

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Fun & Games

StatePoint Crossword

28. HERACLES’ WIFE

9. BEAUTY OR BABE

30. METHANE OR CARBON DIOXIDE, E.G.

10. CURVED MOLDING

35. “PUT A LID __ __!”

37. RUSSIAN MOUNTAIN CHAIN 39. LORRY IN AMERICA 40. CAPITAL OF NORWAY 41. SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION OF CHINA 43. TUBULAR PASTA 44. ROCK BOTTOM 46. *____ PARTY, MANIFEST DESTINY OPPONENT 47. NORSE DEITY AND HUSBAND OF FRIGG 48. SHOE HOLE

65. RUN OFF TO WED 66. FEMALE SHEEP 68. “_____ TWO SHOES” 69. RAF MEMBER 70. SPRING MO. 71. PLURAL OF OSTIUM 72. A CHRONIC DRINKER, PL. 73. *BILLY THE KID’S WAS LESS THAN 20 WHEN KILLING HIS FIRST 74. LOFTY HOMES

6. TRIG FUNCTION

DOWN

9. *THE STEAM ____MOTIVE DROVE WESTERN GROWTH 13. FLOTSAM AND JETSAM ALTERNATIVE 14. EARNED AT KELLOGG SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT 15. IN ANY DEGREE AT ALL, ARCHAIC

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1. BIRD WEAPON

17. BLACK GOLD 18. TRACTION AID 19. *SPAGHETTI _______ 21. *PRECURSOR TO COWBOY 23. TYPE OF TREE 24. COUGH SYRUP BALSAM 25. CONTRARY CONJUNCTION

22. PRIESTLY GARB 24. *SHE OFTEN WORKED IN ONE ROOM IN OLD WEST 25. *THE WILDERNESS ROAD TRAILBLAZER 26. “TAKE IT BACK!” 27. FOUND OVER “N” IN SPANISH

31. RICE-LIKE PASTA

61. METALLURGY FACTORY

1. FRENCH PANCAKE

20. WATERY DISCHARGE FROM EYES OR NOSE

52. LT.’S INFERIOR, IN THE NAVY

57. *TYPE OF WILD WEST WAGON

16. DISCRIMINATION AGAINST ELDERLY PEOPLE

15. *JURY DID IT TO WILD BILL HICKOCK AFTER FAMOUS GUNFIGHT

29. BRIGHTLY COLORED AND SHOWY, SCOTTISH

55. ___ DE TRIOMPHE

ACROSS

12. FOOTBALL GREAT ____ GRAHAM

50. AUDIO BOUNCE-BACK

53. FREQUENTER

THEME: THE WILD WEST

11. BLACKEN

2. ANGRY DISPLAY 3. SHINING ARMOR

32. *SACAGAWEA, E.G. 33. TO ___ __ A PLAY 34. *THEY WERE OFTEN TRADED 36. WORK HARD 38. NONCLERICAL 42. EARLY IRISH ALPHABET 45. BEMOAN 49. TRIPLE ___ LOOP IN SKATING 51. *______ TRAIL, SPANNING EAST-WEST 54. SWELLING 56. INTIMATE 57. LARGE EDIBLE MUSHROOMS WITH A BROWN CAP 58. ASSORTMENT 59. UNIT V 60. “ILIAD,” E.G. 61. BONE-DRY

4. FUSILLI, E.G.

62. MARINES’ TOY RECIPIENTS

5. CATCH IN A NET

63. PREP FOR PUBLICATION

6. KE$HA’S 2012 HIT

64. SWEDISH SHAG RUGS

7. ___-WAN

67. TAIL ACTION

8. ARTILLERY BURST

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ON PAGE 34

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Fun & Games Sudoku Do You Have Tiger Vision?

We’ve hidden this tiger face somewhere in the magazine. Find it, and send an email to prime@insidecolumbia.net telling us the page number where the tiger is hiding. (Hint: It’s not this page.)

Readers with a correct answer by Feb. 28 will be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card to Bleu Restaurant & Wine Bar.

WINNER! Congratulations to Barbara Bulanda! She was the winner of our December Tiger Vision contest and a gift card to The Tiger Hotel!

Cryptogram Decipher this quote by unraveling the secret code. Each letter stands for another letter. We’ve given you a few hints to get you started.

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Recipe Box

Serve Up Comfort With A Savory Pork Stew

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Comfort food is a staple in every kitchen. It’s the perfect way to unwind with familiar flavors and aromas. But those moments that call for a soul-soothing dish are also great opportunities to spice up traditional favorites with less common ingredients and preparation methods for an unexpectedly delicious twist.

Stewing, for example, is one method you might never have tried — but, when you use a tender meat that’s full of comforting flavor, the result is well worth the adventure. Making a stew usually involves browning meat, adding liquid, simmering for a few hours and then adding vegetables — easy, proven steps that let you explore different ingredient combinations to keep dishes fresh and inviting.

Need inspiration to get started? Try Spanish Pork and Fennel Stew with Saffron Rice. This hearty recipe uses a blade pork roast, simple seasonings and vegetables. To change it up, serve the stew with mashed potatoes instead of rice for soaking up the juices.

Find comfort and adventure in the kitchen with pork by visiting www.PorkBeinspired.com and www.Pinterest.com/ PorkBeinspired for mouthwatering recipes, tips and more. v

SPANISH PORK AND FENNEL STEW WITH SAFFRON RICE Servings: 8 STEW: 3

4

1 1 1 6 1/2

pounds boneless blade (shoulder) pork roast, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks tablespoons olive oil, as needed Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper head fennel, cored and cut into 1/2-inch pieces large yellow onion, chopped large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch pieces cloves garlic, minced cup dry sherry or apple juice Chopped fresh cilantro

SAFFRON RICE: 2 cups long-grain white rice 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon crushed saffron threads For stew, heat 2 tablespoons oil in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season pork with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. In batches, without crowding (and adding more oil as needed) add pork and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 6 minutes per batch. Transfer to plate.

Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to Dutch oven and heat.

Add fennel, onion, bell pepper and garlic; cover. Cook, stirring occasionally with wooden spoon, until vegetables soften, about 8 minutes. Add sherry; bring to a boil. Return pork with any juices to Dutch oven. Add enough cold water to just cover pork and vegetables, about 6 cups; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until pork is very tender, about 1 1/2 hours.

Just before pork is tender, make saffron rice. Bring rice, 4 cups water, salt and saffron to a boil in medium saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to very low and cover. Simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5–20 minutes. Fluff rice with fork.

Using slotted spoon, transfer pork and vegetables to serving bowl; cover with aluminum foil.

Let cooking juices stand for 3 minutes, then skim off fat on surface. Boil over high heat, uncovered, until cooking liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Season juices with salt and pepper. Pour over pork and vegetables, and sprinkle with cilantro. Spoon saffron rice into bowls. Top with stew, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve.

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Readers Share

Your Favorite 1960s & 1970s Slang!

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ur January Blast from the Past question asked which 1960s or 1970s slang you remember using and how. Here’s a sampling of your responses.

“If one of my friends said she would date the captain of the football team, we’d tell her to dream on.” ~ Carly Dibben “This mixer is a gas!” ~ Katie Kane “If something is done in agreement, it’s solid.” ~ Charlie Kurre “My 1969 VW Beatle was outta sight!” ~ Pat Gerke

fun & games solved Challenge your brain with this month’s puzzles found on Page 28 & 30.

Crossword Puzzle

“Lookin’ groovy, baby!” ~ Heather Hoffman “Those boots are really groovy.” ~ Deb Poe “ ‘Did you know Billy is dating Susan?’ ‘Far out.’ ” ~ Deshay Rust “The Beatles were really groovy.” ~ Paula Thomas “If my friends asked me to meet them at the school dance after the basketball game, I’d say, ‘Cool.’ ” ~ Karin Rooney “Your hot pants are outta sight!” ~ Leslie Raines And the winner of the gift card to The Tiger Hotel, Jackie O’Rourke, wrote, “If you think he likes you, dream on.”

Blast From The Past: Prime Question Of The Month

Sudoku Puzzle

Which 1960s or 1970s teen idol did you have a crush on?

Find the survey with a list of popular teen idols on the Prime Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ PrimeMagazineOnline. Take it by noon Feb. 11 for the chance to win a $25 gift card to Bleu Restaurant & Wine Bar. 34

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Cryptogram Answer “Hearts will never be practical until they can be made unbreakable.” ~ The Wizard of Oz

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o R E S T A U R A N T S

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Support Our Locally Owned Restaurants When you dine at local restaurants, you help support small-business owners who spend their dollars in the community.

These dollars help keep our neighbors gainfully employed; the cycle continues as employees spend their wages on local arts, culture and other areas of the economy.

Eating local pays BIG dividends for Columbia!

February 2015 Prime Magazine

o R E S T A U R A N T S

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Columbia Confidential: Publisher Fred Parry On The Issues Columbia Is Talking About

Columbia Regional Airport

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If you’ve been around Columbia for the last 20 years, you’ve seen your fair share of the ups and downs of Columbia Regional Airport. Our little airport has ridden the roller coaster of the rise and fall of several airlines including Delta Air Lines, Trans State Airlines, Lone Star Airlines and the reincarnation and subsequent fall of Ozark Air Lines.

What was once a constant irritation for city officials has emerged in recent months as a great source of pride. With increased enplanements, larger jets and the prospect of new destinations, happy days seem to be here again for our oncebeleaguered airport.

News last month that enplanements in 2014 had climbed to more than 53,000 was an encouraging sign for local officials and business leaders who had witnessed the number drop to less than 10,000 as recently as 2007. This latest round of good news was particularly well-received by the local private investors who went out on a limb a couple of years ago with the University of Missouri and local governments to provide American Airlines with a $3 million revenue guarantee. With that fund securely intact, thoughts are now turning to how these funds might be leveraged to encourage American to consider other destinations.

This month, American completes its transition to larger jets at Columbia Regional, serving flights to and from Chicago and Dallas-Fort Worth. The Bombardier CRJ-700 jet holds up to 65 passengers and offers a first-class cabin — a new amenity for travelers using Columbia Regional. This newer jet travels faster at 515 miles per hour at a typical cruising altitude of 37,000 feet. Gone are the days of turbo props and finding your seat in a hunched position.

Though he might modestly reject the praise, much of the credit for the rejuvenation of Columbia’s commercial air service is due to the work of Mayor Bob McDavid. Upon his election in 2010, he made it a top priority to improve the city’s air service, frequently traveling to meet with airline officials to promote the untapped potential of our tiny airport. McDavid’s “build it and they will come” approach was risky, but his efforts clearly have paid off.

There’s more good news on the horizon as we entertain the prospect of adding a new destination for flights originating in Columbia. Experts suggest that either Charlotte, N.C., or Philadelphia would be a good fit, considering current traffic patterns and top destinations for Columbia travelers. City officials seem to prefer Charlotte, as it is a major East Coast hub for American Airlines’ new partner U.S. Airways. Daily service to Charlotte would significantly increase Columbians’ options for international and East Coast destinations. To make this happen, city officials likely would have to re-pledge the $3 million revenue guarantee fund rather than return it to investors when the original guarantee expires this month.

If Columbians can continue to fill American’s planes at

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the current 80 to 90 percent capacity for a sustainable period, some tougher decisions about the future of our airport will present themselves. Columbia’s officials have done their best with their current “duct tape and baling wire” approach to handling the airport’s increase in traffic, but sooner or later, they will need to pull the trigger on renovating or replacing the 50-year-old airport.

Our current terminal is a “What was tribute to the architecture and once a constant décor of the 1960s. As it stands irritation for now, the first impressions that visitors have of our fair city fall city officials short of the desire to position has emerged in ourselves as a world-class city. recent months If the prospect of landing in the middle of a soybean field is not as a great source daunting enough, entering our of pride.” airport through a temporary classroom-style trailer certainly does not speak well for the quality of our community.

Whether the airport is renovated or replaced depends in large part on how such improvements might be funded.

Early estimates indicate that a new airport would cost more than $30 million. Renovating the existing airport to handle increased demand, fix infrastructural inadequacies and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act likely would approach a $20 million price tag. While there is hope that outside funds could be leveraged from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Missouri Department of Transportation, the city of Columbia would have to get creative in how it funds its portion of the costs.

The naysayers among us will protest the need for a new airport, citing the extraordinary expense and pointing out the airport’s troubled past. By my way of thinking, we can’t afford not to pursue this endeavor. A successful airport is a major component of the local economy, key to business interests and to our quality of life. Giving the citizens of Columbia easy access to all corners of the world will ultimately make Columbia a better place to live, work and do business.

Fred Parry, fred@insidecolumbia.net

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