Columbia Home Magazine - April/May 2015

Meet Dr. Kristin Sohl Page 106

The Beauty of Motherhood Page 38

April Showers Bring May Flowers

april/may 2015

Perfect for Entertaining

Break Your Cabin Fever

Food and wine pairings from the expert

A list of must-do’s in Columbia this spring

Page 32

Page 45

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Do Women and Men invest differently?

Men and women are vastly different from each other and most would probably concur that the two genders frequently behave differently. Various studies and anecdotal evidence suggests these differences in behavior show up in the way that men and women invest: • Men tend to trade more often than women. Men seem to buy and sell investments more frequently than women. This difference could result in an advantage for women investors. For example, if women do trade less, they may incur fewer commission charges, fees and other expenses, all of which can eat into investment returns. Also, by holding investments longer, women may be able to take better advantage of market rallies.

• Men tend to invest more aggressively than women. Perhaps not surprisingly, men seem to be more willing to take risks with their investments.

This can be both positive and negative. On the positive side, risk is associated with reward, so the more aggressive the investment, the greater the potential for growth. On the negative side, taking too much risk pretty much speaks for itself. Ideally, all investors should stick with investments that fit their individual risk tolerance.

• Women are more likely to look at the “big picture.” Although both men and women investors want information, women seem to take a more “holistic” approach — that is, instead of focusing strictly on performance statistics, they tend to delve deeper into their investments’ background, competitive environment and other factors.

• Men may be more optimistic about the financial markets. Some studies show that men are more optimistic about key economic indicators and future stock market performance. Optimism can be a valuable asset when it comes to investing; if you have confidence in the future, you’re more likely to invest for it, and to continue investing.

Ultimately, it’s your decision-making, not your x- or y-chromosomes, that will determine your ability to make progress toward your long-term goals — so educate yourself and get the help you need from a financial professional.

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Trusted Investing Advice from these local financial advisors

Gary Anderson (573) 441-8300

Shawn Bedford (573) 445-7671

Jim Bowman (573) 886-8600

908 Rainforest Parkway Columbia, MO 65202

2509 Bernadette Road Columbia, MO 65203

3305 Clark Lane Columbia, MO 65202

Nathan Brown (573) 474-0329

Stuart Eastman (573) 817-3108

Ann Echelmeier (573) 446-2770

908 Rainforest Parkway Columbia, MO 65202

1206 Business Loop 70 Columbia, MO 65202

1729 W. Broadway, Suite 3 Columbia, MO 65203

Travis Figg (573) 442-6470

Jody Frank (573) 657-5775 112 E. Broadway Ashland, MO 65010

Bill Fretwell (573) 443-0043

2900 Falling Leaf Lane Columbia, MO 65201

Madalyn Gramke (573) 234-1700

J R Lawless (573) 443-8871

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1000 W. Nifong, Building 3 Columbia, MO 65203

Mark Richardson (573) 442-1276

Ray Schachtner (573) 445-1122

Eric Willmeth (573) 449-1256

2415 Carter Lane, #104 Columbia, MO 65201

1603 Chapel Hill Road Columbia, MO 65203

34 N. 8th Street Columbia, MO 65201

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14 | APRIL/MAY 2015

E D I T O R ’ s n ote

W Spring! Finally.

We wanted to call this issue the Mom Issue, but that just doesn’t seem right anymore. Initially, the thought was to tie this issue to Mother’s Day, honoring hardworking moms who go above and beyond every day for those they love. But instead it turned into the look-who’s-awesomeand-doing-amazing-things-in-Columbia issue. In all honesty, that’s what happens every issue.

We worked with Busch’s Florists to create the beautiful flower arrangement you see on the cover. Flip to page 19 to see the other spring arrangements they put together for us. A huge thank you goes to Nick at Busch’s for taking our ideas and making them come to life in the form of these amazing arrangements. When we were planning this issue, we went back and forth about what to put on the cover. It’s a big decision! But once we saw what Busch’s was able to do, the choice seemed obvious. What screams spring more than flowers? Nothing.

There’s not a whole lot I look forward to more than spring. The first football game might trump it a bit, but there’s this great anticipation when it comes to warmer weather, beautiful flowers, sundresses and barbecues. We had a lot of fun planning this spring issue, mostly because it meant that April was coming!

We have a great dynamic at our office. We might be short of guys here, but we all bring something special to the table, and the end result is amazing. In this issue, we wanted to honor people in the community who work hard to make sure those around them are happy. We asked our readers to nominate women they know who have gone the extra mile for their family and friends. We borrowed them for two days, and along with Blanc Studio, Girl Boutique and Calena’s Fashions, spruced them up for a fun photo shoot. What I love about looking at these photos is that the true inner beauty of these women shines through each and every image.

Another group of people we honor are those who educate and help raise the youth of Columbia.

Columbia Public Schools is a one-of-a-kind district in Missouri. Not only does it have standout teachers, administrative staff and support staff, but it also works hard to make each of its buildings “mom friendly.” In fact, CPS recently received a grant to make each one of its facilities breastfeeding friendly, meaning they will have quiet rooms for new moms to pump while at work. What makes this even more incredible is that the district is the first in the state to receive this grant.

I hope you enjoy flipping through this issue, and as always, I would love to hear from you. Shoot me an email at Audrey@BusinessTimesCompany.com.

Cheers!

Editorial Audrey Sharp, Editor Audrey@BusinessTimesCompany.com Katrina Tauchen, Copy Editor Katrina@BusinessTimesCompany.com Angie Huhman, Health and Wellness Editor D ESIGN Keith Borgmeyer, Editorial Designer Keith@BusinessTimesCompany.com Cr eati v e Se rvic es Gillian Tracey, Graphic Designer Gillian@BusinessTimesCompany.com Kate Morrow, Graphic Designer Kate@BusinessTimesCompany.com M A RK E T I NG REPRESEN TATIVES Deb Valvo, Director of Sales Deb@BusinessTimesCompany.com Crystal Richardson, Marketing Consultant Crystal@BusinessTimesCompany.com Tami Turner, Marketing Consultant Tami@BusinessTimesCompany.com Nicole Heislen, Marketing Consultant Nicole@BusinessTimesCompany.com M A N AGE M EN T Erica Pefferman, President Erica@BusinessTimesCompany.com Renea Sapp, VP of Finance ReneaS@BusinessTimesCompany.com Amy Ferrari, Operations Manager Amy@BusinessTimesCompany.com CON T RI BUT I NG PHOTOG RAPHE RS Keith Borgmeyer, Casey Buckman, Angelique Hunter, Anthony Jinson, Love Tree Studios, Ben Meldrum CON T RI BUTING WRITERS Beth Bramstedt, Sarah Frost, Brandon Gerau, Nellie Symm Gruender, Shaun Henry, Angela Huhman, Cale Kliethermes, Kristi McCann, Jill Orr, Monica Pitts, Torie Ross, Aaron Saeler, Audrey Sharp, Carolyn Sullivan, Michele Towns, Molly Wright i n te rns Sarah Bergher, Ben Meldrum, Alisiana Peters, Torie Ross, Taylor Wanbaugh

on the cover This beautiful floral arrangement was provided

by Busch’s Florist. With spring and Mother’s Day coming up, we wanted something on the cover that would reflect the season. They did a beautiful job, and the flowers photographed perfectly. Flip to page 19 to see other arrangements that would be perfect as gifts or as a statement piece in your home this spring. Styled by Busch’s Florist, Audrey Sharp and Keith Borgmeyer.

Photo by Keith Borgmeyer.

S UBS C RIPTION S Subscription rate is $12.95 for 6 issues or $18.95 for 12 issues. Call Amy Ferrari at 573-499-1830 ext. 1003 to place an order or to inform us of a change of address.

Columbia Home is published by The Business Times Co., 2001 Corporate Place, Suite 100, Columbia, MO, 65202. 573-499-1830 Copyright The Business Times Co., 2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 15

BOONE COUNTY NATIONAL

a b o u t t h e b o a rd

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1. Erica Pefferman: I love planning for my garden in January and February by circling items in my plant

catalog. I love the promise that comes with spring of new life and color. I love pruning, planning and planting. I love moving snow and leaves aside to see stubborn and anxious hens, chicks and lilies already popping their green stems through the cold ground. I love looking around my little farm and anticipating what it will look like and be producing in late July. I love feeling like it’s nearly tropical when it’s 40 degrees outside.

2. Michele Towns: Spring is one of my favorite seasons as it slowly introduces the ending of the harsh, cold winter grays and browns into a full-blown splash of greens and vibrant yellows. The smells of spring and the sunshine make me feel alive. And, of course, being able to be outside and the start of garage sales are pure joy for this DIY girl.

Bring it on.

3. Kristi McCann: Call me crazy, but I’m not exactly a winter girl. Cold weather, pale skin and little to no sunshine just don’t cut it for me. That’s why each spring I get a new boost of energy. At the first sign of flower buds and green grass, I anxiously rush home from work to go for a hike or meet girlfriends out on a patio for dinner or a glass of wine.

Springtime, to me, means the birth of new things, a lifted spirit and warm weather ahead.

4. Jill Orr: Spring means longer days, shorter pants, asparagus, flip flops, daffodils, spring break, Cadbury Creme Eggs, light jackets, running outside, mint juleps, wearing pastels and the fact that my kids can’t complain that it’s either too cold or too hot to go outside and get off their stinking screens! columbiahomemagazine.com | 17

Where content

meets creativity.

3

PUBLICATIONS Columbia Business Times Columbia Home Jefferson City

CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS

WE’RE SOCIAL

THE BUSINESS TIMES CO. OUR EVENTS 20 Under 40 • Women at Work • Ones to Watch • City’s Best (Jefferson City)

ON THE WEB www.columbiabusinesstimes.com www.columbiahl.com www.jeffersoncitymag.com

We just installed an ADT Security System in your area.

Find out how to protect your family.

Call Ricky Johnson Direct: 573-639-8525 (Former US Marine)

Better a lifetime too early than 1 day too late.

18 | APRIL/MAY 2015

E-NEWSLETTERS

E ditor ’ s P i c k s

Leather leaf, spiral eucalyptus, rosemary, yellow garden roses, orange parrot tulips, hot pink anemones, butter cream parrot tulips, peach ranunculus

Cream hyacinth, peach ranunculus, dusty miller greens

Lavender and white-tip tulips, light pink tulips, white tulips

Rosemary, bupleurum, pitt, spiral eucalyptus, leather leaf, white stock, jasmine, cream parrot tulips, peach ranunculus

April

Showers

Bring May Flowers

Arrangements by Busch’s Florist, 2609 E. Broadway, No. 202, 573-443-3133, buschsfloristcolumbia.com columbiahomemagazine.com | 19

wishnest

BY ALISE SHEEHAN

These nature inspired heirloom quality gifts and keepsakes are perfect for Mother’s Day, graduations, weddings, birthday, housewarming... nearly any gift giving occasion.

919 E. Broadway | Columbia, MO (573) 443-0232 | KentsFloralGallery.com 20 | APRIL/MAY 2015

CH D i g ita l

On the Web Columbia Home Facebook buzz

Strong woman

Dr. Kristin Sohl Medical director of the Thompson Center Medical Clinic at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, is Columbia Home’s Strong Woman.

Flip to page 106 to read more about Kristin, her life as a mom and wife and the one question you never want to ask her!

Spring Home Projects PAGE 67

Cheers!

Columbia’s craft beer scene is bigger and better than ever PAGE 34

MFA Oil’s Strong Woman

Fit and Fabulous The essentials you need for 2015 PAGE 56

Janice Schuerman PAGE 98

Columbia’s Willy Wonka A look inside

The Candy Factory PAGE 28

Gloria Gaus

Stronger from the outside in PAGE 76

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015

The Boot Camp Challenge PAGE 80

Columbia Home Check out Scott Rowson’s article on the craft beer culture in Columbia. It’s thriving, and these guys are the reason why.

Comments:

Bur Oak Brewing Company: Honored to be featured in an article for Columbia Home Magazine! Check it out!

Rock Bridge Brewery: Check it out peeps!

What's happening on Twitter Fresh Ideas Food: @ColumbiaHomeMag @stephenscollege @scevents_como We love fairytales & happy ending!

For future issues

Erica Pefferman: Having a training sesh on @hootsuite in our @columbiabiz @columbiahomemag and @jcmagazine detail meeting #funtimes #girlsgeekingout Jennifer Bondurant: @ColumbiaHomeMag Great inspirational article

Next up

by Gloria Gaus in the Feb/March issue! Thanks for sharing her story

In our June/July issue, it’ll be all about entertaining this summer! We’ll have the hottest trends for hosting the coolest Fourth of July party. You won’t want to miss a special feature by Jill Orr about the people you might run into on the Katy Trail. Plus, we’ll have your guide to dressing for the pool this summer. If you’re interested in being a part of this issue, contact Deb Valvo, director of sales, at Deb@BusinessTimesCompany.com.

School of MCB: Check out this article in @ColumbiaHomeMag featuring MCB School Director, Caitlin Younker

Harold’s Doughnuts: Sprint to get the Feb/Mar issue of @ColumbiaHomeMag and read all about the amazingly talented @mpoelling!

Beth Bramstedt: Excited for the new issue of @ColumbiaHomeMag &

Be sure to check out our blog each week!

Visit columbiahomemagazine.com/category/blog

my first freelance article about 4 incredible local artists!

Logboat Brewing Co.: Check out this great article in @ColumbiaHomeMag about our local brewers! Drink local!

Columbia Home @ColumbiaHomeMag

@ColumbiaHomeMag Columbia Home Magazine

Send all submissions to:

Audrey@businesstimescompany.com

columbiahomemagazine.com | 21

SUMMER IS COMING, LET’S GET READY. When you want to keep up with your world, you want the most advanced Lasik technology in a warm and compassionate environment. Our goal is to help you achieve your best vision possible, because you deserve to feel free from contacts or glasses.

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MADE IN USA CHAIR $720

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APRIL / MAY C o n t e n t s

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❖ EDITOR'S NOTE p. 15 ❖ about the BOARD p. 17 ❖ Entertainment

19 Editor’s Picks 21 On the Web 24 Agenda and Datebook 29 Day in the Life 31 Tech 37 The Dish

Spicy ChickenStuffed Peppers

Features

32 Pairing Food

and Wine 38 Me Time:

These moms got pampered Columbia Home style 45 Break Your

Cabin Fever

A must-do list in and around Columbia 59 Moms at Work

How Columbia’s businesses stack up

Home/Garden

63 Home Feature

Dream Team 71 Real Estate Preparing for the Warm Months 77 The DIY Lady

Don’t Take Your Formica for Granite

45 31

Health/Wellness

79 Life Coaching Lessons I Learned

from Mom 81 Tiffany's Fitness Journey 84 Angie’s Tips 85 Meal Makeover 86 Hot Yoga 89 Love anD Relationships 91 engagements 92 Wedding

The Perfect Day 95 Anniversaries

‘Branded’ for Life 97 The Mommy Chronicles

Creating a Momster 99 About Town 103 Men We Love 104 Advertisers Index 106 Strong Woman

Dr. Kristin Sohl

79 71 columbiahomemagazine.com | 23

Wouldn’t you just love a $500 shopping spree at

?

Enter this contest and you just might win.

One lucky winner gets their choice of $500 in merchandise from Columbia’s favorite jeweler, Betz Jewelers!

All you have to do is visit Columbia Home Magazine’s Facebook page, click on the contest link and enter. BUT pay attention.

If you share it and Tweet it, your chances to win only get better.

Someone’s going to win ... maybe it will be you!

Contest ends May 1st. Visit ColumbiaHomeMagazine.com for details

24 | APRIL/MAY 2015

agenda

thinkstock.com

April/May 2015 Columbia’s must-do events 6th Annual Little Black Dress What: This ladies-only night includes heavy appetizers, drinks, a fashion show, door prizes, a raffle and dancing. Reserve a table today to make sure you and your girlfriends enjoy a night out of the house to support True North. True North is a comprehensive domestic and sexual violence victim service program. The services provided are designed to empower those who have been abused by an intimate partner, enabling them to begin the healing process and work toward regaining control of their lives.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Friday, April 17 WHERE: Joe Machens Toyota INFO: Contact Barbara Hodges at bhodges@socket.net to reserve a table, and visit littleblackdresscolumbia.com for more information.

Are You Smarter Than a JA Achiever?

WHAT: This night of trivia supports Junior Achievement in elementary, middle, junior high and high schools in the Columbia region, including Moberly, Fulton, Auxvasse and Ashland. Teams are comprised of different business categories and include a middle school-age child who has had the Junior Achievement curriculum.

Teams will compete for prizes while having a great time supporting the Junior Achievement program. Tickets are $25 for adults and free for children.

WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 28 WHERE: Holiday Inn Executive Center INFO: For more information, contact Carol Allbritton, Junior Achievement coordinator, at 573-220-6027 or callbritton@jastl.org.

Dancing with Missouri Stars WHAT: Each year esteemed members of the mid-Missouri area are selected and paired with a professional ballroom dance instructor from Studio B and then have three months to take lessons and compete for the prestigious DWMS trophy. The audience members vote with money, which all benefits the Missouri Contemporary Ballet professional dance company. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students.

WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, May 14 WHERE: Southwell Complex, Columbia College INFO: Visit missouricontemporaryballet.com for more information.

Visit Columbia Home online at columbiahomemagazine.com. columbiahomemagazine.com | 25

datebook

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april 4

april 16

april 24-25

April 2015 Sun

Saturday, April 4

MaxTrax Duathlon, Derby Ridge Elementary School, 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., visit ultramaxsports.com/maxtrax for registration info

Sunday, April 5

Singing in the Rain feature film, Missouri Theatre, 2 p.m., $8

Tuesday, April 7

Sing-Along The Sound of Music, Missouri Theatre, 7 p.m., $15 Yellowcard, The Blue Note, doors open at 7 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m., $20

Thursday, April 9-12

Duck Hunter Shoots Angel, Columbia Entertainment Co., Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinee at 2 p.m., visit cectheatre.org/season.html for ticket info

Friday, April 10

Artrageous Friday, South 10th Street, The District, 6 p.m., free

Monday, April 13

The Chancellor’s Concert, Missouri Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $10

Thursday, April 16

Cherry Poppin’ Daddies, Missouri Theatre, 7 p.m., visit concertseries.org/shows/cherrypoppin-daddies for ticket info 26 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Mon Tues Wed Thur

Thursday, April 16 Eli Young Band + Brett Eldredge, The Blue Note, doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m., $25 in advance, $30 day of show

Thursday, April 16-18 The Beaux Strategem, Rhynsburger Theatre, 7:30 p.m., visit theatre.missouri.edu/onstage for ticket info

Sunday, April 26 6th Annual Head for the Cure 5K, Flat Branch Park, 8-10 a.m., visit headforthecure. org/mid-missouri for registration info

Wednesday, April 29 to May 2 Mizzou New Play Series, Corner Playhouse, 7:30 p.m., visit visitcolumbiamo.com/events/ mizzou-new-play-series for ticket info

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6th Annual Little Black Dress event benefiting True North, Joe Machens Toyota, 6 p.m., contact Barbara Hodges at bhodges@socket.net to reserve a table, visit littleblackdresscolumbia.com for more info Relay for Life of Mizzou, 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., Carnahan Quad, visit relayforlife.org to register

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april 17

datebook

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May 2015 Sun

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Gypsy, Macklanburg Playhouse, 7:30 p.m., visit stephens.edu/services/performing-arts/ playhouse for ticket info

Saturday, May 2

World Music Festival, First Presbyterian Church, 5 p.m., visit columbiachorale.com for more info Home Free, The Blue Note, 7-10 p.m., $30 in advance, $33 day of show, visit etix.com/ ticket/online for ticket info

Sunday, May 3

TriZou Triathlon, Stankowski Field 7-7:30 a.m., visit ultramaxsports.com/trizou for more info

Monday, May 4

13th Annual Masonic Home of Missouri Charity Golf Tournament

Missoula Children’s Theatre’s Rapunzel, Missouri Theatre, 3 and 6 p.m., $12 for adults, $7 for kids Mother's Day

may 14

Dancing with Missouri Stars, Southwell Complex, 7 p.m., $20 for adults, $15 for students, visit missouricontemporaryballet. com for more info

Monday, May 18

6th Annual Tolton Catholic Golf Classic benefiting the Tolton Catholic Scholarship and Tuition Assistance Fund, Columbia Country Club, registration opens at 7 and 11 a.m. with 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. shotgun starts, $150 for individual registration, $250 to sponsor a hole, call Laura Sasserat at 573-445-7700 to register

Saturday, May 23-24

Salute to Veterans Celebration, Columbia Regional Airport, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., free

Saturday, May 30

Go Girl Run Half Marathon and 5K, Reactor Park, half marathon starts at 7 a.m., 5K starts at 7:15 a.m., visit gogirlrun.com for registration info

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Visit Columbia Home online at columbiahomemagazine.com. columbiahomemagazine.com | 27

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d ay i n t h e l i fe

Day in the Life of Miss Missouri Prepping for the crown is a full-time job for Miss Missouri Rebecca Dunn. by torie ross

W

p h oto s u ppli ed by r eb ecca d u n n

When Rebecca Dunn entered her first Miss Missouri USA pageant two years ago, she didn’t tell anyone outside of her immediate family. “It was so scary, and it’s one of those things where you have to put yourself out there with so much room for rejection,” Rebecca says. However, when she placed within the top five, she knew in that moment she had to try again. This year, on her second try, Rebecca took home the crown. She saw Miss Missouri as a chance to not only catapult her career in the entertainment industry but also to promote social causes that are close to her heart, including Mizzou for You, a mentorship program for young adults with special needs.

Rebecca founded Mizzou for You while she was still a student at the university. As she prepares for the road to Miss USA in June, Rebecca jokes the reality still hasn’t set in. “I don’t think it will hit me until I’m on the stage at Miss USA,” she says.

With a schedule full of work, training and practicing for interviews, Rebecca says it’s often her fellow competitors who inspire her the most. “We’re all very passionate and committed,” she says. “One thing all the competitors have in common is drive.”

6 a.m.: As Miss USA looms closer, Rebecca’s training regimen has gotten more intense. With only a couple months left until competition, she hits the gym daily for an hour of cardio and an hour of strength training.

9 a.m.: Rebecca heads to Newsy, where she works as an anchor. When Rebecca realized how much she loved the entertainment business, she decided Miss USA would be a step in the right direction for advancing her career.

1 p.m.: Rebecca leaves Newsy and heads straight to Fox 22, where she works a few shifts a week.

photo by Be n me ldru m

3 p.m.: Every day Rebecca tries to remember to take some time to go outside and enjoy the day. “I get so caught up in everything I have to do,” she says. “Sometimes I need to remember that there’s more to life than Miss USA.” 4 p.m.: Because the interview portion is such an important part of the Miss USA pageant, Rebecca spends part of each day brushing up on current events. Using daily news updates such as theSkimm, Rebecca prepares a page summary of the day’s events and her views on them to send to her pageant director each night.

6 p.m.: “One of the biggest differences since I became Miss Missouri is people asking me to be places and make appearances, which I love,” Rebecca says. Whether it’s attending a charity event, meeting with fellow competitors or picking out gowns for the pageant, Rebecca says there’s a lot more that goes into preparing for Miss USA than she ever imagined. columbiahomemagazine.com | 29

30 | APRIL/MAY 2015

tech

My Kid’s Phone Kids and technology: How young is too young?

A

A September 2014 article in The New York Times mentioned an earlier interview with Apple owner Steve Jobs, just as the company’s first tablet was hitting the shelves. “So, your kids must love the iPad,” the interviewer said.

“They haven’t used it,” Jobs replied. “We limit how much technology our kids use at home.”

After reading this article, I thought, “So tech people don’t think kids should use technology?” Apparently, I didn’t get the memo. I let my daughters play with my phone, especially when we go out to dinner, and I want them to sit nicely.

After a small survey of Columbia parents, it turns out I’m not the only one using my phone as a mobile entertainment station. Columbia parents of young kids tend introduce their children to phones around age 1 or 2 for the same reasons, showing videos and allowing them to play educational apps while supervised.

Based on the results of my small sampling of 30 Columbia parents, I also learned that most parents consider it appropriate for kids to have their own phone somewhere between 8 and 16 years old, with 12 being the average age. Thirtyseven percent say they think it’s appropriate to give a child a phone between the ages of 12 and 14. One 2012 survey, conducted by ORC International for the National Consumers League, revealed nearly six out of 10 (56 percent) children ages 8 to 12 and about 80 percent of teens between 12 and 17 have their own parent-provided cellphone.

Columbia Public Schools addresses cellphone usage in its Elementary Student Parent Handbook, saying, “Cellphones are to be off during school hours.”

The CPS Secondary Schools Student Handbook says phones may be allowed on campus. However, “if student disruption occurs, the phone may be required to be relinquished, and consequences will be assigned as according to individual school policy.”

Although kids are carrying phones at increasingly younger ages, most Columbia parents say their kids aren’t spending a ton of

Tech Rules

By Monica Pitts

Columbia parents share their guidelines for tech use in the home. »» “We have a strict no-phones-atthe-table rule for all family members.

No using anything electronic after 9 p.m. on weekdays.” »» “It is all based on the child. ...

Technology is not going to stop, so to keep kids in tune with technology, they need to use it.” »» “Everything in moderation. For my kids, when you offer other activities for them, there’s not an issue with them wanting to use electronic devices as frequently.”

thinkstock

time on the device. Parents say their kids look things up, text, play games, listen to music, use Instagram, FaceTime and talk to family members and friends. Seventy-eight percent of these Columbia moms and dads consider the phone a parent-owned device, meaning they can take it away if grades drop or behaviors don’t meet expectations.

Like any other decision, there’s tons of advice out there on how to decide the right time to give your child his or her own phone. And fortunately, in this age of technology, there are many ways to exert your parental control to monitor and restrict how your child uses the phone. Columbia parents seem to have taken a good measure of responsibility over their kids’ phone usage by establishing rules, safeguards and choosing the right device for their children.

Read the rules and advice of other Columbia parents on cellphone usage at mayecreate.com/ my-kids-phone.

»» “There is a time for technology and a time to be a kid. Technology has a lot of benefits and educational material that can be used to supplement curriculum or activities in the home. However, I feel my kids are too young for this exposure, and I would rather allow them time to be a child and experience the world on their own, play outside…and expand their imagination.” »» “We only allow my son to use the phone for emergencies, and he must ask parents if he wants to make additional calls.” »» “The phone needs to be put in mom’s room to charge at bedtime.

Parents always have the option to look at anything on the phone, including websites viewed, text messages read, etc.”

Monica Pitts

Monica is founder of MayeCreate Design.

She and her husband, Mike, have two daughters, Ellis and Aveleen, and two dogs, Maybe and Roxie. Monica considers herself an artist, yogi and Web dork with the ability to speak geek and English.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 31

32 | APRIL/MAY 2015

food Pairing

Wine and

By Aaron Saeler | Photos By Anthony Jinson

When pairing wines with food, start by choosing the wine varietals you like, whether that be chardonnays, cabernets, pinot noirs, etc.

L

Let’s get started!

Think about the dominant characteristics of the meal. Is it mild or flavorful? Is it fatty or lean? Is it rich or acidic? With this is mind, select a wine that will balance the flavors of the food. Milk foods go with milk wines. Big flavorful foods pair with big flavorful wines.

If you are eating foods with strong acidic content, pair them with an acidic wine such as a Sauvignon blanc.

Remember that acidic wines don’t pair well with cream sauces. Rieslings and buttery chards are best with dishes that contain cream.

Spicy food clashes with most wines, destroying the flavors of the wine. If you do wish to have wine with a spicy dish, go for an off-dry or semi-sweet white wine such as a Riesling or Gewürztraminer.

Fried food will be best with mostly acidic white wines such as Sauvignon blanc or unoaked chardonnays.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 33

Here are some of my pairing suggestions:

Beef

Red wine is best with beef because of the tannins. Tannins are compounds found in all red wines. They come from the grapes’ skins, seeds and the barrels the wine was aged in. Tannins are an essential part of the wine’s balance and structure and give the red wine aging potential.

Pork

Most people think of pork as a white meat, which suggests a lack of flavor.

Actually, pork has a lot of flavor and can hold up to white wines as well as reds. Gamays and pinot noirs have light enough tannins that don’t overpower pork dishes. When using a sweet spicy pork dish, Rieslings and Gewürztraminers would be preferred.

Lamb Meet Aaron I’ve worked in the food and wine industry for 24 years. What initially attracted me to this field was how intricate the science is behind pairing food and wine.

Everyone’s palate is different, but when the right things are paired together, it makes for a beautiful combination. My favorite type of wine would have to be a Bordeaux blend, which comes from the Bordeaux region of France. They produce red, sweet white, dry white, rose and sparkling wines as well, with the majority being red.

This is my fourth year working at Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer and Spirits. Every day at the store, we have wine tastings, so come on by, and sample something we have on hand. We’ve also started doing tasting events, so be sure to join our e-newsletter list to receive updates on those events.

34 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Lamb is a red wine-friendly food.

It’s best with Old World wines, Bordeaux, Rhônes, Chiantis, Riojas, but it goes well with New World cabernets and merlots and fullbodied California red blends, too.

Heavy fish Heavier/fattier fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna can be paired with a broad

spectrum of wines. If using citrus notes in the recipe, try New Zealand Sauvignon blanc. If you’re using grilled or baked fish, then pinot noirs, buttery chardonnays and Torrontés work well.

Fish and shellfish

Because light fishes such as Dover sole, Swai and tilapia are more delicate, it’s

best to pair them with a lighter white wine

such as an un-oaked chardonnay, vino verdes or an American Sauvignon blanc.

Cheese Cheeses are like wines in their array and selection. There are bold cheeses and mild ones. There are sweet and salty as well.

• Champagnes go well with chèvre, Parmesan, Brie, cheddar and Colby.

• Beaujolais goes well with goat cheese,

Chicken

Chicken lends itself to many different types of wines depending on how it’s prepared or the types of sauces used. Creamy or buttery sauces should be paired with chardonnay. If it’s herbed or acidic, pair it with Sauvignon blanc. Roasted chicken goes well with pinot noir because of its saltier flavoring.

If the chicken is prepared in a heavy or red sauce, a merlot of Chianti works best.

Duck

The fatty styles of duck pair well with pinot noirs and Gamays. They also do well with New World chardonnays. If preparing the duck with a sweet and spicy sauce, pair it with a semi-dry or a light semi-sweet wine.

Camembert and Brie.

• Cabernets and Sauvignons pair well with blue cheeses, Gorgonzolas, Gouda and Roqueforts.

• Merlots taste nice with Gorgonzolas,

Gruyères, Jarlsbergs and hard Parmesans.

• Pinot noirs should be paired with Brie, feta, Monterey Jack, Muenster and Swiss.

Desserts The rule of thumb when choosing a wine for dessert is that the wine should be

just as sweet as the dessert itself with enough

acid to balance out the flavors. Try late harvest Rieslings, Gewürztraminers, late harvest zinfandels, Moscatos and ruby ports.

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the d i s h Ingredients: • 4 to 6 large bell peppers, any color • 3 to 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts • 6 to 8 garlic cloves, finely minced • 1 fresh jalapeño, minced • 2 ½ cups tomatoes, diced • 1 large yellow onion, diced • 1 15-ounce can of tomato sauce • 1 6-ounce can of tomato paste • 1 ¾ cups salsa • Shredded cheese (optional) • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper • 1 teaspoon oregano • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

PHOTO KEITH BORGMEYER

Crystal’s Spicy Chicken-Stuffed Peppers

W

When I began my weight-loss journey, I knew I had to change my diet to be more conscious of what I put in my body and how I chose to consume nutrients. I’ve tried and failed multiple times at losing weight and keeping it off. The truth is, you really do have to change your lifestyle and become picky about how you replenish and nurture your body. For me, this meant minimizing my sugar, carb, oil and processed food intake. I focused on filling up with lean proteins, fresh fruits and veggies.

However, I quickly realized this healthy lifestyle change was hurting my bank account, and my taste buds were less than satisfied, so I created this recipe that combines clean eating with lots of flavor. Now, 70 pounds lighter, this is still one of my favorite dishes to make. These low-calorie, low-carb, proteinpacked spicy chicken-stuffed peppers really take clean eating up a notch.

crystal richardson

Directions: Boil chicken breasts for 15 minutes, or until cooked. Shred cooked chicken breasts using two forks.

In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic and jalapeño for 10 minutes on medium heat. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salsa and chicken. Mix well, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Once the ingredients begin to thicken, add the salt, chili powder, crushed red pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano and cumin. You can add more cayenne pepper, chili powder or crushed red pepper to turn up the heat. If you’re looking for more of a “sweet heat,” try adding a few drops of liquid stevia to the chicken mixture. Adjust to taste. Simmer on low for approximately 10 minutes, covered.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Using a sharp knife, cut the tops of the peppers off, and pull out all the inside ribs and seeds.

Run under cold water to wash and remove remaining seeds inside.

Stuff the peppers with the chicken mixture, and top them with salsa so they don’t dry out. columbiahomemagazine.com | 37

Me Time

Between kids, work and all of life’s responsibilities, these women deserved a little pampering, Columbia Home style.

By Kristi McCann Photos By anthony jinson

thinkstock.com

38 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Stephanie Rosskompf “I love an adventure,” says Stephanie, who went into the makeover with a completely open mind.

Some would say Stephanie’s lifestyle is already adventurous. This mother had three kids in a two-year span; her first child was followed by a set of twins. “Anyone who has experienced multiples or toddlers close in age knows it’s a fast-paced lifestyle,” she says.

Stephanie felt honored to be chosen from the group of makeover nominees. When she found out she’d been chosen, Stephanie was at a Mothers of Preschoolers meeting. “I was surrounded by so many great moms who deserved this special treatment,” she says.

Keri Tipton, who nominated Stephanie for the makeover, especially noticed the responsibility Stephanie had taken on over the past couple of years. “She knew me in my fulltime professional life and after the transition to full-time mommyhood, so she recognizes how generally insane the last several years have been for Chris and me,” Stephanie says.

Stephanie and her husband, Chris, are continually working on the house, so she was looking forward to being able to “hit the reset button” on herself.

“It was refreshing just to talk to people over the age of 5 and to not wipe any butts, even for a couple of hours,” she says.

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columbiahomemagazine.com | 39

Beverly Denbigh “When my children were growing up, there were three things I always wished for them,” Beverly says. “I wanted them to be Christian, to be responsible and respectful adults and go to college.

I have two graduated, my youngest son is on his way, and they have definitely been accomplishing the ambitions I had hoped for them.”

Bev is every bit the definition of a mom. She’s the type of person who, no matter where she is, takes on the role of mother hen. Although her kids are grown, she often bakes treats for the students in the University of Missouri’s Physical Therapy Department, hosts Super Bowl parties and invites her family over for dinner: children, in-laws, girlfriends, grandchildren and all.

“Now my life is a lot calmer than it was when I was raising my kids,” Bev says. “It was a journey along the way, but I remember those times when I was rushing in the morning, making breakfast and taking kids to school. That’s why I feel so honored to be chosen for this makeover. I know there are more deserving moms out there, especially single moms. I was lucky enough to have my husband help raise the kids.”

Each morning, Bev gets up early to take a shower and start coffee for her husband. She’s dedicated 6 to 6:30 a.m. as “me time,” when she takes half an hour to herself to start her day. “I’ve never had that,” she says, just like she’s never had an opportunity to get dolled up for a photo shoot.

“I’m usually a behind-the-scenes kind of person,” Bev says. “But I knew this would be good for me because I’ve been looking to enhance myself, especially with my son getting married soon.”

Close friend and neighbor Kat Cunningham nominated Beverly. “She’s such a role model for me because she looks fabulous all the time,” Bev says. “I’m a pretty casual type of person. I normally just throw on jeans. It was thoughtful of her to nominate me.”

Beverly's clothing: Picadilly Fashions sweater/tank, $96 Picadilly Fashions pants, $55 L&D purse, $79 Ms. Ashley scarf, $18 Ms. Ashley bracelet, $8.99; Quality Hill bracelet, $21.99 Ms. Ashley earrings, $6 k All items from Calena’s Fashions

Angela Pigg This mother of two is in the middle of what she calls a weight-loss journey. “I call it that because I’m not on a diet,” she says. “I’m really changing my lifestyle. There is an end goal, but there is not an end.”

Focusing on her health hasn’t taken the place of her other priorities though. Three days a week, Angela is up before the sun to attend a boot camp at Key Largo Gym. She gets her workout in right away so she’s able to devote the rest of her day to other activities, beginning as early as 6:30 in the morning.

“I’m a morning person, which helps,” Angela says. Not only does she have a full-time job as minister of education at Olivet Christian Church, but she also participates in two different PTAs, is a committee chair for Cub Scouts, a member of the Boonslick Kiwanis group and totes her kids around to competitive soccer games and clubs at school. You get the idea.

“This is not something I do on a regular basis,” she says. “Just to go to a salon and be pampered in that way was so much fun.” Angela was awfully bold for someone who doesn’t often change her hairstyle. She allowed hairstylist Tori Araujo to chop her hair to donate it to Locks of Love.

“I was a little hesitant about the process at first, especially the photo shoot,” Angela says. “I don’t like being the center of attention, but one of the things that got me so excited is the weight I’ve lost so far. I don’t think I would have had the confidence to do the photo shoot otherwise.”

Angela thanks co-worker and friend Stacy Silverwood for recognizing her hard work and rewarding her with a nomination for the makeover. “I told my husband it’s like makeover week on The Biggest Loser,” she says. “It was a nice little reward in the middle of my journey to boost me to keep going.”

Angela's clothing: Picadilly Fashions pants, $68 Cousin Earl shirt, $116.99 Comfy U.S.A. jacket, $93 Necklace, $22.99 Earrings, $8 k All items from Calena’s Fashions columbiahomemagazine.com | 41

Leigh Pemberton This Hallsville kindergarten teacher decided to fully commit to this makeover. As someone who spends her days sitting on the floor with 5-year-olds, comfort has always been key for Leigh. She presents herself with little makeup because she loves the outdoors, camping and being active.

But when she sat herself down in the salon chair, Leigh assured stylist Victoria Araujo that she had the liberty to do whatever she wanted.

“A pixie cut?” Victoria asked. Without hesitation, Leigh agreed.

“Hair is just hair,” says the mom whose hair once passed her shoulders. “I’ve been through cancer before, so I’ve gone without hair and had short hair before.”

Since the makeover, Leigh says she’s found herself making the extra effort to get ready in the morning.

“Truthfully, I do a little more to my hair and make sure to always wear earrings since I am a little fearful people might mistake me for a boy,” she says.

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44 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Breaking your cabin fever We understand that as spring approaches, we’re all a bit antsy to get out and about in Columbia. With the warmer weather in our midst, it’s time to hang those coats up, pack the snow boots away (hopefully) and get the bike down from its winter hibernation spot on the wall in the garage. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite things to do around Columbia and “around the river bend.” Whether you’re looking for a daytrip for the family to Hermann or a local hangout where you and your friends can grab a glass of wine, we’ve got you covered.

Tear this page out, clip it to the fridge, and see how many of these fun activities you can check off your list!

By torie ross Photo by Ben meldrum columbiahomemagazine.com | 45

cabin fever

- Family Friendly

- Drink

- Outdoors

- Date Night

- Road Trip

s fo

k out more item

ec Head online to ch

et list r your CoMo buck

- Food

❒ Shakespeare’s

Have a slice of pizza (or three) at Shakespeare’s.

❒ the blue Note Rock out at The Blue Note.

❒ Hermann Wurst Haus

Try Wurstmeister Mike’s newest creation at the Hermann Wurst Haus.

❒ Booches

Eat a burger, and play some pool at Booches.

❒ food truck

Track down one of CoMo’s food trucks.

❒ Rooftop Bar

Have a drink with a view at the Rooftop Bar.

❒ Shelter Gardens

❒ Washington Park

Lace up your skates at the Washington Park Ice Arena.

Find an escape in the middle of the city at Shelter Gardens.

❒ Churchill Museum

Relive history at the Winston Churchill Museum

❒ THE heidelberg

Enjoy half-priced apps at late-night happy hour at The Heidelberg.

❒ Sparky’s

Have a scoop of Sparky’s newest ice-cream flavor.

❒ Eagle Bluffs

Go bird watching at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area.

❒ Ha Ha Tonka

❒ Perche Creek

Spend a day at Ha Ha Tonka State Park.

Practice your mini-golf skills at Perche Creek Golf Club.

❒ Room 38

Share an appetizer, and sip a martini at Room 38.

❒ Hot Box

❒ Big Tree

❒ 63 Diner

❒ Les Bourgeois

❒ historic Missouri Theatre

Take a walk down memory lane at the 63 Diner.

Have a glass of wine, and enjoy incredible views at Les Bourgeois Vineyard.

See a play or concert at the historic Missouri Theatre.

❒ Mugs Up

❒ Auto World

❒ Tropical Liqueurs

Enjoy a fresh-from-the-oven cookie at Hot Box.

Chow down on a chili cheese dog at Mugs Up Drive In.

46 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Take a family photo at the Big Tree.

Walk through automotive history at the Fulton Auto World Museum.

Prepare for summer with Tropical Liqueurs.

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TOP OF

th e class When it comes to education, Columbia Public Schools has always received high marks. But it takes a lot of exceptional people to keep CPS at the top of its class. As part of a special feature, Columbia Home invites you to get to know a few of them.

By Molly Wright | photos by angelique hunter

Top of the class

Dr. Peter Stiepleman

W

Superintendent of Columbia Public Schools With his undergraduate degree in Spanish and international affairs, Dr. Peter Stiepleman never intended to pursue a career in education. “I wanted to be a diplomat; I wanted to go into Foreign Service,” he says. But a series of events led him down a different path, and today Peter is superintendent of Columbia Public Schools.

Born in Long Island, New York, Peter attended Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York. After graduation, he worked six months at the United States Embassy in Madrid. It was on this overseas assignment that he fell in love with his wife, Elizabeth Chang. When she moved to California, Peter “followed his heart,” he says.

While in California, Peter was hired as an insurance agent, but his heart wasn’t in the work.

“Then one day I went and read a book to a sec-

ond-grade classroom in Berkeley, California, and with the number of questions that the kids were asking and just the energy in the classroom, I knew this is where I wanted to be,” he says. Enrolling in the University of California at Berkley in 1998, he also started teaching, though he wasn’t fully certified until 2000.

When his wife accepted a professorship in the English Department with the University of Missouri, the couple moved to Columbia. Peter taught within the CPS system, working at Oakland Junior High, Derby Elementary and West Boulevard until former Superintendent Chris Belcher hired him as assistant superintendent, a position Peter held for four years until he replaced Belcher in July.

“I think that I just had a number of things that

the community might be looking for at this point in Columbia’s history,” says the superintendent, who has three sons enrolled in CPS. “You have a second-language community that is growing at a rapid rate… Many are kids from really fragile backgrounds. To have a superintendent with my kind of background and understanding perspective, I think, was wanted and sought.”

However, Peter is also the first to say the job of superintendent is challenging. “In this position it’s important to understand that each school has its own culture, its own characteristics and its own values in a way but that they must also embrace a set of organizational values,” he says.

“What better opportunity do you have to influence the future of a community than by working with families, teachers and principals to educate their children?” columbiahomemagazine.com | 49

Top of the class

Melissa Moore

A

Kitchen manager at Two Mile Prairie Elementary As kitchen manager of Two Mile Prairie Elementary School, Melissa Moore knows her position is about much more than providing food.

“Sometimes the kids are having a hard day, so I feel I get to be the one who can put a smile on their faces,” she says.

Born and raised in Miami, Oklahoma, Melissa received her degree in early childhood education from Oklahoma State University. She moved to Columbia when her husband was hired to work in MU’s Department of Development. Starting out as a playground supervisor, Melissa was hired for a kitchen helper position before being promoted to manager. To date she has worked for CPS for almost seven years.

Melissa starts every workday at 6:45 a. m. to

50 | APRIL/MAY 2015

be ready to serve breakfast for 80 to 90 children.

With only one kitchen assistant, she says it’s “go, go, go” from then on as they clean up and then prepare lunch for another 250 children. “I am on the move all the time, which makes the day go fast,” Melissa says.

But even on her busiest days, Melissa has nothing but praise for CPS and TMP. “I think the CPS system itself is wonderful, and everyone on staff at TMP is so supportive,” she says.

“If I fall behind on my orders, somebody will help me. I don’t have to worry the children will go without food.”

Also responsible for ordering all the food and organizing the meals, Melissa says the kitchen manager at an elementary school requires much

more than being a good cook. “Most important-

ly, I think you have to have a positive attitude so

you don’t let the little things get to you,” she says.

Melissa says she loves TMP’s close-knit com-

munity and is delighted to be living in Columbia. “We are outdoorsy people who enjoy hik-

ing, so we really love all the parks” says Melissa, who has a freshman at Battle High School and a fifth-grader at TMP. But most of all, she says her family enjoys the college atmosphere. And now that MU is no longer in the same conference as her alma mater, she says it’s even better.

“Now we can cheer for Mizzou because they

are not in our league,” she says.

Sarah Easley Media specialist at

Top of the class

West Boulevard Elementary

Mary Hoffman Smith

A

Paraprofessional at Mill Creek Elementary

As a paraprofessional for Mill Creek Elementary, Mary Hoffman Smith knows her job title often takes a bit of explaining.

“Paraprofessionals collaborate with teachers, specialists and principals to help support children with special needs succeed in the classroom,” she says. For Mary, being a paraprofessional is not only a job she loves but also one that allows her to make a difference in the lives of the students and families she serves.

Born in Florissant, Missouri, Mary and her family moved to Georgia when she was 12. She attended West Georgia College in Carrollton, Georgia, and then Kennesaw State College in Kennesaw, Georgia, where she received her degree in social science. Afterward, she taught preschool for many years.

In 1999, when her oldest child entered Mill

Creek Elementary, Mary discovered there was an opening for a paraprofessional. After an extended period of shadowing the person who was leaving the position, she was hired. “I have a lot of compassion and patience,” she says. “I also believe in interacting with children in their own language, finding a connection with them and discovering what motivates them.”

As a paraprofessional, Mary works a full day, but her schedule varies according to the needs of the children. Overall, she knows what she provides is part of a collaborative effort with the teachers and parents to create the best learning experience for every child. “I believe every person, no matter how he or she comes into the world, has many gifts to offer,” she says. “Being a small part of opening up that package is very inspiring to me.”

Mary also understands the importance of making every child feel welcome. “Another part of my job is teaching all the children how to include everybody because everybody has something to offer, so encouraging peer interaction is essential,” she says.

Mary feels her parents were instrumental in getting her to where she is today by encouraging their children to do what they love and to help others. “I feel like this job has allowed me to fill that ambition,” she says.

“The challenge of opening up possibilities for children is so thrilling and motivating to me, and this journey of being a paraprofessional has taught me that small steps can turn into great possibilities for these children.” columbiahomemagazine.com | 51

Top of the class

Cheryl Rackers

E

Fi fth-grade teacher at Paxton Keeley Elementary Employed with CPS for 21 years, Cheryl Rackers teaches fifth grade at Paxton Keeley Elementary School, but her connection to the school district goes back much further. “I am a native Columbian and a product of CPS, which I am proud to say,” Cheryl says.

Cheryl’s desire to teach began while she was in elementary school. “I had a special teacher in elementary school in both third grade and sixth grade named Becky Cox, who helped me bloom as a reader,” she says.

The Cadet Program at Hickman High School, which allowed her to attend classes in the morning and teach in the afternoon at Russell Elementary, solidified her decision to make teaching a career. Although she originally enrolled at Truman State University in Kirksville, 52 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Missouri, Cheryl returned to Columbia after a year and a half and received her Bachelor of Science in elementary education from MU and her Master of Arts in teaching from Columbia College. She’s taught fifth grade for the past three years but was a third-grade teacher for years prior and in 2002 won Teacher of the Year: Outstanding Educator for Grades 3-5.

Married with two children — a daughter, who is a sophomore at MU, and a son, who is a senior at Hickman — Cheryl says today’s parents and students face more challenges than ever before. “I think parents today have a hard time just parenting because there are so many other influences they have to worry about,” she says. “I also think kids have more pressure these days than in the past,” But one thing that hasn’t

changed in all the years she’s been teaching is the gratification she feels when someone tells her she’s made a difference.

“We’re not doing it for the money,” Cheryl

says. “We’re not doing it for the hours. It’s the

pride you feel when you hear a parent say, ‘My

child blossomed with you,’ or, ‘You really made a difference in my child’s life.’”

Overall, Cheryl says she’s thankful she can still

call Columbia home. “I just have so many fond

memories, and I have the perspective to see how Columbia has grown and changed,” she says.

“I think Columbia is a fantastic community. My

family is here, I know the community, and I have

always thoroughly believed in the school system.”

Sarah Easley Media specialist at West Boulevard Elementary

Top of the class

Sarah Easley

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Media specialist at West Boulevard Elementary

When Columbia native Sarah Easley graduated with a degree in English from Miami University in Ohio, she felt she was at a crossroads. “I didn’t really know what to do,” she says. She knew whatever career choice she decided would have to involve helping others, which led her to think seriously about becoming a librarian. She enrolled in MU’s Master of Library Science program and graduated in 2009.

After taking additional classes in school librarianship to become a media specialist, Sarah was placed at Lee Elementary for her first observations. “The media specialist program is very similar to a teacher preparation program,” she says. “You do observations in schools and then a practicum and then an internship.” But for Sarah, who originally

thought she wanted to work with teens, the elementary school experience was also a turning point.

“From the start I loved the sense of community, and I fell in love with the elementary school,” she says.

In 2010, Sarah was hired as the media specialist at West Boulevard. “One of the things that I love about this job is that there is no typical day,” she says. “Depending upon what’s going on in the school, I may be on a field trip, helping run an assembly, doing library checkout, reading stories or working on a research project in a classroom.”

Although her role in the building has remained fairly constant over the years, Sarah says her schedule and time structure have changed. “You sometimes have to reinvent

the way you are teaching and how you are collaborating with teachers,” she says. In working with elementary children, she’s also learned to not only expect the unexpected but also to appreciate the unexpected as well.

“Sometimes a kid will come up with a question that seems completely off the wall, and you will end up getting a really great discussion out of it,” she says.

There may be times when Sarah thinks it would nice to move to a bigger city, but she loves her job, the community and staff at West — and most of all the children. “I love the students,” she says. “They are just so fun and curious and eager to learn. Working with them is just so gratifying.” columbiahomemagazine.com | 53

Top of the class

Chris Hysong

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Math teacher at West Middle School Interested in math and science from an early age, Chris Hysong always assumed he’d be an engineer. But a high school AP statistics course not only increased his math abilities, but the experience also helped him grow personally.

“I knew I wanted to do something with math,” Chris says. “I just didn’t know it was teaching until then.”

Originally from Warrenton, Missouri, Chris received his bachelor’s degree in secondary math education from MU. Through the University Fellows program, he went on to earn his master’s in curriculum and instruction.

Today, as math teacher at West Middle School, where he teaches pre-algebra, algebra, geometry and algebra 2, Chris’ enthusiasm for the subject makes him a favorite teacher of current and past students alike.

54 | APRIL/MAY 2015

“I like to do little silly things, like as a class we predict the Mizzou games every Friday,” says Chris, who’s in his eighth year of teaching.

He also doesn’t believe in stretching the truth when it comes to why his students need to understand math.

“I don’t try to sugarcoat it,” he says. “Like when talking to them about complex numbers in algebra 2, I tell them they are probably not going to use complex numbers in life, but they are going to need that knowledge to be successful in future courses.”

Chris says his main responsibility as a math teacher is to increase math confidence in his students. “I have many kids that come into the classroom who think they are bad at math, but after about a month, they’re like, ‘It’s not that

hard,’” he says. “I love seeing that growth in confidence once they know they can do it.”

Chris was named Outstanding Beginning

Teacher through the Columbia Fund for

Academic Excellence in 2008 and chosen as coach for the State Missouri Math Counts

in 2012 and 2013. He was also chosen as the Most Inspiring Teacher by the MU Alpha Theta, Hickman Math Fraternity.

Chris and his wife, Stephanie, who also

works with CPS, welcomed their first child in

February. They love the university atmosphere of Columbia, and Chris says he pretty much lives for the home football games.

“I look forward to those six to seven

Saturdays more than any other,” he says.

Sarah Easley Media specialist at

Top of the class

West Boulevard Elementary

Christine King

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President of the Columbia Public School Board

Christine King knew it would be a big commitment when she first ran for the CPS School Board, but she was thrilled to be elected in 2009.

After her re-election in 2012, she knows the responsibilities can be challenging, but as a firm believer in public education and a passion for community service, she plans to throw her hat in the ring next year as well.

Christine, who has two children, considered running for the school board prior to 2009, but it wasn’t until she left her job with State Farm after more than 20 years that she gave it serious thought. Her father, who died in 2002, was a staunch supporter of public education, so Christine wanted to continue the tradition. Although she didn’t have a background in education, she had previous school board experience.

From 2002 to 2007, she served on the board at the school her children attended at the time, the last four years as president.

According to Christine, the primary function of the school board is to assist the superintendent. “So it is important that we work together

to do our job, of which we have three: manage the budget, set policy and hire and manage one person [the superintendent],” she says.

When it comes to providing quality educational opportunities for all children in the district, however, Christine stresses that, like a three-legged stool, the community, the teachers and parents are equally essential. “Unless all three are working in sync, the stool cannot function correctly,” she says.

For Christine, serving on the school board is an honor, and she looks forward to next year’s election. “It’s a passion of mine, but the other reason I want to run again is because we just hired Peter [Stiepleman], and I would really like to see what we all can accomplish given his passion and drive and vision, and I really want to be a part of that,” she says.

As for Columbia, Christine says she couldn’t ask for a better community in which to serve. “What is really cool about Columbia is that people are very engaged with everything, from their trash pickup to curfew for youth to our school district,” she says. columbiahomemagazine.com | 55

Top of the class

Alvin Sweezer

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Head custodian at Fairview Elementary Born and raised in Harrisburg, Missouri, Alvin Sweezer has worked for CPS for 25 years, including the past 20 as head custodian for Fairview Elementary School.

For Alvin, the workday starts early at 6:30 a.m. “I mostly come in and clean the office, the library, hallways and the teacher lounge, and I pick up the trash,” he says. But these activities only account for a fraction of his day. He stays busy taking care of all the teachers’ needs, which vary widely from day to day.

“The teachers submit emailed work orders, and I do odds and ends for them,” he says. It adds up to a busy day, but Alvin says he enjoys his work and socializing with the children.

The flexibility of his position also allows Alvin to help out in a pinch, which is especially important as the seasons change. “One winter day, everybody was stuck in the ice and snow that was on the hill, and I went to help out,” he says. “I helped a woman move her car. I didn’t know who she was until I got out there to give her a hand and found out she was a teacher at Paxton Keeley.”

An avid cyclist, Alvin says he’s glad to be doing his job in a city like Columbia, where a bike-friendly atmosphere makes it easy to bike to work every day. “I also joined a bicycle club in Columbia, and I go to all the GetAbout sessions and bike rides that they put on,” he says.

In addition to the exercise the sport offers, Alvin likes interacting with the other cyclists. “I enjoy going to the bike rides and meeting all the different people; they come from so many backgrounds,” he says, adding that the hobby has also opened doors to new friendships. Just this summer, Alvin joined a father and daughter on a cycling tour of 40 Missouri state parks.

“I started on the Katy Trail, and we went all the way up to Marceline, Missouri, up to Flat Branch and up to Macon,” he says. “It was four days of riding.” And he loved every minute of it.

One winter day, everybody was stuck in the ice and snow that was on the hill, and I went to help out. I helped a woman move her car. I didn’t know who she was until I got out there to give her a hand and found out she was a teacher at Paxton Keeley.”

– Alvin Sweezer 56 | APRIL/MAY 2015

excited

Top of the class What Is Common Core?

By Molly Wright

A nationwide approach to teaching based on setting clear goals and consistent benchmarks for core subjects, the Common Core State Standards were designed to help today’s children succeed in an increasingly competitive world. Developed by teachers, parents, school administrators, experts from across the country and state leaders, Common Core State Standards aim to tie the best state standards in the United States, review educational expectations from other high-performing countries and research what students need to know to be successful.

With the Common Core process, children advance as they master certain skills, similar to climbing a series of steps or the rings of a ladder. Along the way, stopping points allow teachers and parents to work with students who need more assistance. Common Core Standards required in English language arts include classic myths and stories from around the world, America’s founding documents, foundational American literature and Shakespeare. Mathematics standards focus on the basics, such as whole numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and decimals. Middle school and high school students learn to apply mathematical thinking to real-world issues and challenges.

Opponents of Common Core question the need for federal mandates in state educational systems. Is standardized testing really necessary when states have set their own educational standards for years? The Missouri State Board of Education approved the Show-Me Standards on Jan. 18, 1996. Many teachers feel Common Core hinders creativity and collaboration in the classroom. Others liken it to standardized testing in general, which they believe contributes to ranking children, racial discrimination and widening the achievement gap.

Proponents feel the plan will provide every child, regardless of where they live or what school they attend, consistent knowledge needed for graduation and beyond. Also, it allows teachers to devise their own lesson plans and curriculum to meet the needs of the students in their classrooms. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education adopted the Common Core State Standard for Missouri in June 2010.

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Columbia Moms at Work The United States trails the rest of the world when it comes to providing paid maternity and paternity leave for new parents. But despite the lack of legislation, local businesses are going above and beyond to offer benefits and ease the transition.

By Beth Bramstedt

Parents these days seem to have an “eat this, not that” attitude towards their children’s diet, but CH columnist Jill Orr has something for them—a chow-related reality check.

By Jill Orr

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When I was a kid, my mother didn’t keep junk food in the house. No chips, no cookies and certainly no sugary cereal. She always had an abundance of fresh fruit and two little dishes in the fridge—one with carrots and the other, celery. In sharp contrast, our neighbors had every Hostess, Entenmann’s and Frito Lay product on the market. While my mom made sandwiches on scant Pepperidge Farm Very Thin bread, Mrs. Shapiro laid their PB&J’s betwixt slices of pillowy soft Wonder Bread. Our house was the realm of righteousness and fiber; the Shapiros were the Sultans of Snacks—their pantry a golden palace of processed deliciousness.

Obviously, our houses represented two vastly different approaches to teaching kids about food. One in which parents pushed healthy choices and offered very limited access to junk food in a well meaning, albeit tightly controlled, way. The other, in which parents took a more handsoff approach and allowed their kids to decide for themselves what they wanted to eat. Nowadays, it seems most people I know favor option one—the approach my mother took—with the thought that if we teach our kids to love the taste of healthy food while they are young and impressionable, they won’t want or need to eat junk food as they grow up.

Right. Because as kids get older, they always do as they are taught. columbiahomemagazine.com | 59

S

Some days it’s tough to remember all the way back to July of 1993. Other days, it’s not. You might recall that time period as the Great Flood of ’93, the worst flood in the United States since 1927. It inundated 74 towns, caused 54,000 people to evacuate their homes, took 47 lives and cost more than $15 billion in damages. It covered mid-Missouri in water and closed off travel to Jefferson City and surrounding areas. For me, it was also the month my first baby was born, six and a half weeks early, by way of an emergency C-section.

I will never forget going to my scheduled appointment, where the doctor told me that my blood pressure had skyrocketed, my legs were swollen and I was going to the hospital now. My husband and I were totally unprepared.

We hadn’t attended our child-birthing class, and our baby shower was planned for later that month.

We didn’t own a car seat or a single diaper. I had to break the news to my coworkers at Woodcrest that I wasn’t coming back to the office, and someone needed to finish my projects without any trainingw or instruction.

Yet, later that evening, after some additional complications, I was the proud mother of a beautiful but very tiny baby boy. July 20, 1993, was my first experience with the joys and struggles of being a new mom with a full-time job.

The struggles of new moms Blair Dinkins, an expectant mom and Realtor at Weichart, is also planning on a July baby. As a real estate agent, Blair is self-employed, which has both its downsides and its perks. Being her own boss gives her a lot of flexibility with her schedule and the opportunity to work from home, but it also means that she has to work to make money. Blair realizes that she’ll have to head back to work just a few weeks after 60 | APRIL/MAY 2015

giving birth but hopes to work just a few hours a day, bring the baby with her and not have to use child care for at least the first six months.

“I think my biggest struggle will be separating work from home,” Blair says. Her biggest fear is the potential of missing her baby’s monumental moments because she’s at work.

Meghann Figg, a physical therapist at Boone Hospital Center, had similar feelings before her daughter was born. “I get easily invested in my patients’ recovery and lives,” she says. “At times my job can be very exhausting physically and emotionally. I was concerned after Avery was born that I wouldn’t have the energy to give

her the love I desired. I was also afraid that I would miss out on the milestones and memories and all the precious moments in between.”

Meghann gave birth to Avery last October and was excited to stay home with her for 12 weeks. Thanks to a short-term disability benefit offered by the hospital, combined with her earned time off and an additional shortterm disability policy of her own, Meghann got paid for all three months of her leave.

Blair and Meghann’s struggles are similar to those of many new moms. They carry a lot of anxiety trying to maintain a balance between work and motherhood, and it starts weeks or even months before having the baby.

The plight of our nation Unfortunately, compared to other countries, the U.S. government offers few incentives to assist working moms. According to a January 2015 BusinessWeek article, paid maternity leave doesn’t exist in America unless you work for a company that voluntarily offers it or live in one of three states: California, New Jersey or Rhode Island.

The Family Medical Leave Act, which Congress passed in 1993, does grant up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave each year, but it only applies to full-time workers in companies with 50 or more employees. FMLA covers about half of all working Americans, but the other half, such as Blair, are on their own. Paid time off is even harder to find. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 12 percent of American workers have access to paid leave.

To put this in perspective, according to the United Nations International Labour Organization, Papua New Guinea and the United States are the only two countries in the world that don’t offer some form of legally protected, partially paid time off for working moms who have just had a baby.

In terms of parental leave, Sweden is leadthinkstock ing the world. According to author Claire Suddath: “Parents in Sweden are given 16 months of paid leave, two of which are reserved just for fathers, and they can divide the rest however they like until their child is 8 years old. While on leave, the government pays 80 percent of the parent’s income, even if she’s self-employed.” Canada’s solution is more of a middle ground, offering mothers up to 12 months at 55 percent of their salary.

The response of local companies Does all this seem depressing? Although the Obama administration and politicians such as Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand from New York are trying to create legislation and solve the issue for the government, the good news is that

“The same people I see at work also go to the same church, day care and doctors’ offices that we do. We do more than just work together; we support each other trying to do the best we can for our families, our careers, our faith and ourselves.”

– Meggie Hess local businesses have a lot of freedom and choice in what they can offer their employees.

“It really is up to the company to decide if it will go above and beyond,” says Kerri Roberts, director of training and development for Veterans United Home Loans.

“At VU we pride ourselves in doing the right thing by treating people in each individual circumstance, whatever that looks like.”

Going “above and beyond” for Veterans United means giving new moms six weeks of paid leave. They can take five weeks after the baby is born and still have another to use once they return to work. This maternity leave is in addition to the employee’s own accumulated paid days off. VU also offers shortterm disability as an option if moms want more compensation while they are out on leave.

Meggie Hess, human resources supervisor at VU, says Veterans United had 81 babies born in 2014. For each expecting mom, she says, they go over all the details and make a leave plan together with their manager. This year, Meggie got to have a plan of her own. Her son, Levi, was one of those 81 newborns. Meggie plans to use the company’s generous leave policy to be home for 12 weeks with the new addition to her family.

“As a new parent, I am really grateful to work at a place like VU,” Meggie says. “The same people I see at work also go to the same church, day care and doctors’ offices that we do. We do more than just work together; we support

each other trying to do the best we can for our families, our careers, our faith and ourselves.”

A little goes a long way Meggie, like many other working moms, says it’s often the little things that make all the difference in one’s experience. We asked Columbia Home readers how their employers could better resource them as working moms. Here are some of the responses: • A regular paycheck; • The flexibility to attend school events or be a little late if the bus is running behind; • Day care available on site; • A clean, comfortable place for nursing moms to pump; • Good medical, dental and vision benefits; • The ability to work from home if needed; • Nutrition and parenting classes; • Extended leave.

Steve Lubbering serves as vice president of human resources for Columbia Insurance Group, a regional insurance carrier whose home office is in Columbia. Steve believes the family-friendly nature of their company stems from their core value that “our employees are our greatest asset.” One way the company lives out this value is by offering flex time. Steve says the company has been doing this for more than 30 years, which allows each employee to work with his or her supervisor on his or her specific work schedule.

They also create an atmosphere of fun, with special events planned for the employees each month. “We take our business and our service to our customers very seriously, but we try not to take ourselves too seriously in the process,” he says.

The way the company lives out its values has contributed to its extremely low employee turnover, Steve says, including working mothers. “Our employees know each other very well since most have worked together for so long. That helps create a family atmosphere and real care for each other.”

As Blair prepares for motherhood, much of her stress is relieved because her boss has been extremely supportive. “I work under another Realtor, who is also a mother of four, so she understands,” Blair says.

As Meghann returned to work, she credits both the hospital and her co-workers with her easy transition. “My co-workers have been so generous, kind and supportive in my whole journey,” she says. “They make it easy to want to be at work, and that makes a huge difference.” She is also thankful for the hospital being so flexible with her schedule and making her new life change as a mom a top priority.

In addition to maternity leave, Meggie is excited that Veterans United offers so many other benefits for new parents, including a fulltime life balance coordinator, who puts on lunches for expectant moms and dads; sends gift baskets to new parents; and provides resources on child care, parenting, budgeting, stress management, healthy lifestyles and more.

Kerri also loves the family events sponsored by the company. “I’d say my two favorites are the campout in the summer and the Santa party in the winter,” she says. “And the family movie nights. I never feel like I have to choose work over my family. If I did, then I wouldn’t be here.”

Today, 22 years after my son was born on that July night, I’m still working for the same company. Only now I’ve sent both my boys off to college, and life looks a lot different. Looking back, however, I’m not sure how I would have survived raising my boys without coworkers and an employer that went above and beyond and affirmed my role as a mother. I have to agree with Kerri. If I felt like I had to choose work over family, my career path probably would have looked a whole lot different.

Source: bloomberg.com/bw/articles/2015-01-15/maternity-leave-u-dot-s-dot-policies-still-fail-workers columbiahomemagazine.com | 61

Dream Build or Dream Team Bill and Wendy Sheehan’s new construction home fits their family and style to a tee.

By AUDREY SHARP | PHOTOS BY KEITH BORGMEYER

62 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Dream

Build

by Audrey Sharp Photos by keith borgmeyer

O

On a sunny, bitter Friday morning in February, we pull into the Old Hawthorne neighborhood on the east side of Columbia. Like most of the homes in Old Hawthorne, this is a recent build and blends in beautifully with the surrounding houses, landscape and golf course.

We walk up to the beautiful front door only to be greeted by Duke, the family’s 8-year-old, rambunctious golden retriever, and it’s clear this dog is as much a part of the home as the rest of the family.

Bill and Wendy Sheehan have been residents of Columbia for many years. Bill works at Westminster College in Fulton, and Wendy teaches at Rock Bridge High School. Both of their children, Sam and Tripp, attended school in Columbia and are living out of the house now. Sam recently moved to Colorado, and Tripp is a sophomore at Westminster College, where he plays soccer. The Sheehans began working on their dream home with Doug and Gina Muzzy of Muzzy Builders in February 2013. The digging began in April, and they were moved in by September 2013. They also worked with Billy Stewart at DKB.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 63

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The living room is beautifully designed and open. Furniture came from Pottery Barn and mixes beautifully with Wendy’s antiques.

The Sheehans’ master bath was designed by DKB.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 65

Wendy’s antique ladder serves as a conversation piece in the kitchen.

“It was the best of both worlds,” Wendy says. “Gina had a background in interior design, and Billy really listened to what I wanted in our kitchen and bathrooms. It was a dream team, really.”

In the kitchen, Wendy and Bill went with beautiful cream cabinets with durable quartz countertops.

“I knew I didn’t want to do anything too trendy,” Wendy says. “Gray cabinets seem to be a popular thing to do right now. I liked it; I just wasn’t sure if I would want to live with it five to 10 years from now. DBK has a great selection and allows your imagination to run wild. They had nice examples for visualization, and Billy never tried to convince me to do something in my new kitchen that I didn’t like.”

To the left of the refrigerator, there’s a door that leads to a very organized coffee station and pantry.

“Bill doesn’t like clutter, so I figured a pantry would be a good way to keep things out without having them take up counter space,” Wendy says.

When looking around the Sheehans’ house, it’s obvious that each decoration has a meaning: a bowl full of Wendy’s grandmother’s kitchen utensils, photos of grandparents and great-grandparents, antique signs and an old mailbox. Wendy says her friends describe her style as “sappy sentimental.” If you ask her about a piece, it has a meaning and a story.

Most of the furniture in the home came from Pottery Barn.

“They came and did a free consultation, measured, took color swatches, and they will keep all of that on file,” Wendy says. “I told them I knew what I wanted and that I wanted to get it from them.” columbiahomemagazine.com | 67

The hardwood floors throughout the main level are “Duke colored.” Wendy got the floors from Kent Baumgartner at Accent Floor Coverings, and they match the dog’s hair perfectly.

Off the garage is an organized laundry room with space for air drying and folding. There’s also a guest bedroom on the main floor with a bathroom next door.

With the help of DKB and Muzzy Builders, the Sheehans were able to build their dream home in Old Hawthorne. I’d say they plan on being there a long time.

It was the best of both worlds. Gina had a background in interior design, and Billy really listened to what I wanted in our kitchen and bathrooms. It was a dream team, really.”

— Wendy Sheehan 68 | APRIL/MAY 2015

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r e a l e s tat e

From the Experts

Whether it’s home maintenance, style tips or buying advice, this team has you covered.

“Having grown up just south of Columbia, I’ve developed a love for the central Missouri community and the folks who live here. My wife and I built a home for our family just outside of Columbia. I have a good understanding of why there are so many Columbia transplants — it’s just a great community to live in! ” – shaun henry

“I’ve always been a very visual person. As a child, I was fascinated with color and texture. I had a knack for recognizing a space’s beauty and potential. I love that interior design blends color, texture and our senses.”

– Sarah frost

“I was born and raised in Columbia. After serving in the Corps for four years, I moved back here to work with my father, Dan. In the near future I plan to take Kliethermes Homes & Remodeling into markets outside of Columbia.”

– Cale Kliethermes

“I was born and raised in Columbia and love nothing more than calling this place home. Columbia is a great community, and I thoroughly enjoying working in real estate.”

– Brandon Gerau

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r e a l e s tat e

A

Spring Maintenance

Get your lawn and landscape ready for the sunshine days ahead.

By shaun henry

April showers bring May flowers — usually, anyway. In Missouri, the weather is so unpredictable. The weather also greatly impacts everything from insect populations to plant health. One thing you can count on as spring turns to summer, though, is that things will start happening in the dynamic, ever-changing environment that is your lawn and landscape. Critters begin stirring, plants start budding and blooming, and it soon seems that all living creatures want to be out enjoying the sunshine. I know I do!

Keep these ideas in mind as the weather begins warming up:

Landscape

Moles

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The funny thing about trees is that not unlike the human body, they suffer from an ailment long before they start showing symptoms. Moisture levels and insect activity from previous seasons combined with current conditions impact trees and shrubs year after year. Last year’s disease levels, such as fungus, were moderate, which means if we have fairly heavy spring showers, rust and anthracnose will thrive. Also like the human body, checkups and preventive maintenance can be very beneficial.

Lawn On the turf side of things, the grass will green up as the soil temps warm and the sun shines for more hours of the day. Of course, this means mowing on a regular basis begins as well. Because most folks aren’t in the business of mowing, we strive to use slower-releasing fertilizers that feed the turf over a longer period of time rather than a quick-release type that stimulates growth. If you want dark green grass without all of the excessive growth, which translates into excessive mowing, this is the way to go.

Termites Swarming termites and flying ants look a lot alike, and both tend to get really active this time of year. One is relatively harmless, and the other can do tremendous damage to your home with its wood-eating habits. The easiest way to tell the difference is that flying ants (you might have guessed that’s the harmless one) have three body segments, just like a regular ant, and straight antennae. Termites have two body segments and elbow antennae. We have some images on our website that can help you identify the differences, but we’re always happy to help in person, too. Getting an annual termite inspection can give you some peace of mind as well.

72 | APRIL/MAY 2015

It may suddenly appear that subterranean building contractors have set up shop in your front lawn and are tunneling giant mounds of dirt up into affordable family housing — for rodents. Moles and voles both become active in the springtime, when they busily seek mates and madden homeowners with their destructive ways. There are a number of ways to manage moles in your lawn, but there is one big myth I’d like to debunk for you: Treating your lawn with a grubcontrol product will not eliminate moles. It is a commonly held belief that if you get rid of the moles’ food, the moles will move on. Although moles do find nice, fat grubs to be quite the delicacy, earthworms are their primary food source. So, though grub control is a good idea for the well-being of your lawn’s root system, it will not necessarily impact your mole population. It’s most effective to make a plan that deals directly with the moles.

Shaun Henry

I was born and raised in the Deer Park area south of town, where I was close to lots of cousins, my grandparents and plenty of friends. I don’t think I ever imagined living anywhere else. My wife and I both graduated from the University of Missouri and set roots in rural Columbia with our three boys. Having grown along with Atkins Inc. since June of 2000, I’m proud to be part of an organization that’s so deeply rooted in building relationships throughout the community and developing one of the finest groups of experts in the field. From grounds maintenance to pest management to commercial cleaning, our crews really know their stuff.

We’d love to hear from you at 573-874-5100, or email me at shaun@atkinsinc.com.

r e a l e s tat e

Fleeting Trends vs. Timeless Style

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By Sarah Frost | photos courtesy of studio home

When I was asked to write a piece on summer interior design trends, I started searching my brain, and mostly the Internet, for popular patterns that could help me create a compelling forecast for Columbia Home readers.

After a few minutes, I realized rather than giving a prescriptive list of summer decorating to-dos, I’d give you something even more valuable — advice on achieving the space of your dreams. So what trends should you toss this summer? All of them.

Although some trends have a place in your closet, they shouldn’t dominate your design choices. I’ve built my career by offering guidance and an expert eye to help people realize their dream home: the sanctuary they will miss when they’re away and will eagerly return to for years to come. In a phrase, trends are fleeting, but style is timeless.

That’s what designers, like me, are here to do: to help you identify your signature style. If you want your home to feel like a light summer oasis, we can do that. If you are a Delftware collector and want to bring the indigo blues into your living room, we’re primed for the task. Whatever your unique tastes are, we can transform your space into one that will meet your needs today and next summer.

Building a strong foundation involves a budget. A good rule

of thumb is to point your purse toward the things that won’t be changing with moods and seasons, such as rugs and furniture. Take buying a new sofa, for example. It potentially can be an investment. When beginning the search, it is important to think about how you use your sofa. You, your family and perhaps your dog sit on the sofa. In the end, how is that sofa going to take the beating if you go with something cheap? It might last you five years, it might last you two, or it might last you 15, but the cushions are broken into a point of no return, and it’s like sleeping on a bad mattress.

Going with quality will eliminate this issue and may save you money in the long run. You should never have an issue with a quality sofa over time.

A well-made sofa should easily last you 10-plus years and gracefully take a good beating.

One question I’m often asked is, “How can I transition my home from season to season?” The answer is simple. Changing the aesthetic to mirror the season is about accessorizing, not overhauling. Cherry blossoms and bright-colored throw pillows are great ways to bring spring into your home, but it all starts with building a solid foundation you’ll love year-round.

With a beautiful, high-quality foundation in place, there

are a lot of ways to keep your design fresh. When looking to update on a budget, assess what you have. Frame your photos from a recent trip.

Replace your old throw pillows. Add a little character that reflects you and ultimately tells your story.

Sarah Frost

I’ve always been a very visual person. As a child, I was fascinated with color and texture. There is a psychology and science behind finding a well-balanced home that my visual personality and education in interior design from Stephens College allow me to understand. I understand decorating a home is a very emotional experience. That’s why all of us at Studio Home develop relationships with our clients that enable us to identify with them and build up a sense of trust.

My main goal is then to help figure out how to showcase our clients’ styles and personalities in their homes.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 73

r e a l e s tat e

Spring Remodel

Before getting started on the next home project, here’s what you need to know.

By Cale Kliethermes

Now that spring is here, it’s time to talk about spring trends and timelines for building and remodeling this summer.

There are many easy ways to spruce up your home on the inside and outside using color and accessories. Kliethermes Homes & Remodeling is here to help with your projects, large or small.

Three things to think about before remodeling for spring:

1. Depending on the remodel you want to undertake in your home, preparing a proper timeline with Kliethermes Homes & Remodeling is crucial. Kliethermes’ business will pick up as the weather warms up, so it’s important to get in the books with them as soon as possible.

2. Picking your design and colors for your remodel in advance is extremely helpful to the builders and will help speed the process along. Most people are looking to build an outdoor living space or open up their existing indoor space to create a more useful area for entertaining.

3. Any time is the right time to start a project, but thinking about the weather is an important factor when determining your timeline. Winter might not be ideal to work on an outdoor remodel or addition but could be a better time to work on the inside of your home. Early spring is great for remodeling because you’re able to enjoy your new space with the warmer weather.

Cale Kliethermes I was born and raised in Columbia. In 1996 I moved to Colorado, where I ultimately (after playing for several years) earned a double major in business administration and finance through Regis University. After college, I enlisted in the Marine Corps and served four years, doing three consecutive tours to Iraq. In the Marine Corps I specialized in building and explosives. I got out of the Corps in 2009. Four years ago, I moved back to Columbia to work with my father, Dan, and our business, Kliethermes Homes & Remodeling.

74 | APRIL/MAY 2015

r e a l e s tat e

N

Time to Buy

With historically low rates and a peak housing market, the time to buy is now.

Now more than ever is a great time to buy or borrow. Mortgage rates are at a historic low. Not only are the rates low, but Columbia’s home-buying market is also at its peak. Here are three reasons why purchasing and moving in the spring is ideal:

1. Mortgage rates are low.

2. The number of homes available is at its peak.

3. You’ll be in your new home and able to enjoy it during the summer.

By Brandon Gerau

Renting vs. Homeownership 1. When you pay rent, you’re paying your landlord’s mortgage instead of building any equity that will benefit you in the long run. A general rule is if you intend to stay in your house for at least five years, the costs of purchasing the home are more likely to be offset by accrued equity and increased housing value. You will then be able to borrow against the equity in your home.

2. For each month you make your house payment on time, your credit will go up.

Lenders want to see you are able to make your payments on time, especially the type of loan they would be extending. Having a higher credit score allows you to get the best rates, highest limits and best deals.

3. You’re able to deduct mortgage interest along with your property taxes. Those who work from home are able to take deductions for their home office and portions of utilities.

4. Owning a home is a good investment, and with rates being so low today, you are locked in at that cost over the next 15, 20 or 30 years. When you rent, it tends to go up every year and is not fixed for a long period of time.

5. You can do what you want with your home. Yes, there are some restrictions and covenants at times, but those are minor. You are in charge, and you don’t have to abide by the rules and your landlord’s restrictions. Want to paint that wall or remodel the kitchen? Go for it!

Brandon Gerau

NMLS# 977618

I have been with Landmark Bank for three years now. I am a mortgage lender at our new office on the corner of Forum and Chapel Hill. I have my undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri and am currently pursing my master’s in financial planning at MU. You can reach me at 573-499-7327 or email me at Brandon.Gerau@landmarkbank.com.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 75

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76 | APRIL/MAY 2015

D o I T Y O U R SE L F

Don’t Take Your Formica for Granite!

I

By Michele Towns | Photos by Ben Me ldrum I decided I couldn’t take the ugliness of my glaring white Formica counter on our wet bar in the family room any longer. We built our home 25 years ago, and it was one of the last decisions made when building. I said, “Oh, yes, white Formica is fine.” And actually, it is fine, but I was over it, and it was screaming for a change. So, please, don’t take your Formica for granite!

I’ve always wanted to try the Giani Granite Kit carried by Johnston Paint and Decorating, and this was as good of time as any. What a wonderful and super easy product. It comes with detailed instructions, including a DVD. Sure, I was intimated. But should I have been?

Absolutely not!

I chose the chocolate brown kit that I thought complemented the current glass backsplash. I also primed the bottom white Formica cabinets and painted them black. Below are my basic instructions. For detailed instructions full of great tips and a how-to video, visit gianigranite.com. I highly suggest printing off the PDF instructions from the site before you proceed, as well as watching the video.

before

Project level: Intermediate 1. Clean the countertops with an SOS pad to remove grease, dirt or wax, and rinse with a damp cloth.

2. Mask off your backsplash and sink.

3. Shake and stir the black primer, and edge in around your backsplash and sink. Next, roll on the countertops in 3-foot sections, and roll back over what you just did in long end-to-end, one-way, overlapping, very light roll strokes to minimize any lap lines created by the roller.

4. After the primer has dried and before starting, practice the sponging process on the black poster board included.

5. Sponge on the three prepacked minerals in 3-foot-wide sections to allow them to blend while wet. Use a straight-up-and-down motion.

6. Roll on clear topcoat. Do not go back and reroll the wet topcoat after you’ve applied it because it may cause uneven or dry spots.

After columbiahomemagazine.com | 77

FOR 1/DAY $

(3 week minimum-new customers or customers missing for 6 months only)

78 | APRIL/MAY 2015

120 E. Nifong (Peach Tree Plaza) | Columbia, MO 573.823.7600 | jazzercise.com

L i fe C o a c h i n g

Six Life Lessons I Learned From Mom

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By Carolyn Sullivan a car with a hole in the floorboard. Mom never forgot these humble beginnings; they shaped her heart and formed her worldview. Mom doesn’t reserve her best self for Donald Trump or the other social elite in her circles. Strangers and friends, rich and poor all receive the same worldclass attention from Mom. She makes them feel special by getting to know them and learning their stories with genuine curiosity. This, more than any other lesson she’s taught me, has given me a vision for the person I always want to be.

3. Extend more grace. Mom had a massive

stroke in 2010. We nearly lost her. It all could have been prevented had one neurologist correctly diagnosed her prestroke symptoms. When I asked Mom if she would sue him, her reply was: “What would be the point? He didn’t do it intentionally, and he feels horribly.” In that moment, Mom transformed my understanding of grace. If Mom could extend grace to this person who had done so much harm to her and our family, how much grace could I extend to others for far lesser transgressions?

4. Never give up. Mom’s finished everything she 1. Wear more hats. Late in life, hats have

become Mom’s trademark. She wears them to dare to be her most fabulous self, and as the picture shows, that’s pretty fabulous! She wears them to stand out from the crowd and to enjoy her moment in the spotlight. Mom is never more self-confident than when she dons a hat; hats require that of us, which is why they’re such a courageous fashion choice. Hats signify to the world you’re ready for fun, and, thanks to Mom, I’m wearing more of them.

2. Show everyone your best self. Mom grew

up in a poor suburb of Boston. Her father was a milkman for HP Hood. When she and Dad married in 1949, they had $20 between them and

ever started. In 1947, she graduated from college.

To be the first person in her family to earn her degree, she commuted two and a half hours each day on Boston’s subways and buses. It wasn’t easy, and her grades weren’t at the top of her class, but she finished. Mom’s taught me that persistence is the quality that separates winners from losers.

If you can’t be the smartest person in the room, you’d better be the most persistent. Mom always was.

5. Give back. I’m not sure whether it was the

nuns who taught her or her parents who instilled it in her, but Mom learned early on to give back and to do so with a generous heart. At the age of 72, when most people are slowing down, Mom formed the nonprofit Angels of Charity. In the process, she was a fierce advocate for children,

raised substantial funds for their causes and earned recognition as one of Palm Beach’s most prominent, tireless and passionate philanthropists.

From Mom’s lifetime of charity, which she continues at 89, I’ve learned the power of helping others and building community. Mom inspired me to make her purpose my own and led me to start my business, New Chapter Coaching.

6. Be there for those you love. In the days

following her stroke, I fielded calls from throngs of Mom’s friends who were worried about her well-being. Each of them told me how Mom had been there for them: during their divorce, when their child died, when they were in the hospital and so on. When my partner, Elisa, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, Mom was the one who called every single day to check in on her. Although none of us can be there all the time for one another, we can be there when it matters most, which is what Mom did and, at 89, continues to do.

Photo by Anthony Jinson

Mom turns 90 in November, and she’s still teaching me to laugh at myself, have more fun and focus on the positive. She shows me how to be grateful for the life I have and ready for when it ends. What follows are six of the most important lessons I’ve learned from Mom, lessons that demonstrate Mom’s compassion, confidence and strength of character and remind us to celebrate all that is our lives.

Carolyn sullivan At the height of the recession, Carolyn took her dreams off the back burner and started her own business, New Chapter Coaching. Crazy or confident, she’s never looked back. She’s dedicated to helping nonprofits get results that improve people’s lives and helping others make a difference along the way. Carolyn’s hit what she calls the career trifecta: She gets to do what she loves with clients she respects and earns a living doing it. She wishes the same for everyone.

Carolyn’s challenge: This Mother’s Day, write down five lessons you’ve learned from your mom or another woman who has loved you in positive, maternal ways. Then call or write this person to share your loving insights and make a powerful human connection.

Today’s the day, for tomorrow might be too late. columbiahomemagazine.com | 79

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staying

on track Buff babyfinding boomershealth hit the gym to Sometimes and

maintain their fitness, reach new goals

happiness is a alifelong journey. and cultivate sense of community

By Angie Huhman | photos by casey buckman

columbiahomemagazine.com | 81

D

Developing habits at a young age, Tiffany McLemore was like any normal teenager who loved to eat.

After talking with her parents, she learned diabetes and cancer ran deep in the family, but she was young, and it really didn’t bother her. She would drive into town and take the $20 for gas that her dad gave her, spend $10 on gas and the other $10 on junk food. A candy bar and a root beer instantly made her feel better.

She realized by 18 that she had to get her weight under control. Knowing all about the “freshman 15,” she decided to be proactive and went to work for Weight Watchers. “You had to be accountable every week for weighing in,” Tiffany says. “This kept me on track.”

Tiffany needed accountability. She learned portion control instead of avoiding the foods she craved. “It wasn’t that you couldn’t have macaroni and cheese,” she says. “You could just have two tablespoons full.”

Life changes Some women view pregnancy as an excuse to eat whatever they want. However, losing the weight can be hard when you’re completely exhausted from taking care of a new baby. Tiffany began focusing her life as many moms do — on her family. She started a desk job that consisted of lots of sitting and lots of eating. By the time baby No. 2 came along, her weight was up and down and anything but stable. And her marriage wasn’t stable either. Having come to the hard realization that her marriage was over, life was about to get even tougher. As a single mom working multiple jobs, she put on more weight and spent less time focused on her health.

he caught up with in Iraq while serving in the armed forces. Her brother-in-law’s persistence paid off, and finally Tiffany and his friend both agreed to go out on a date. The date ended up lasting all night, with the two of them sitting in his truck talking in her parents’ driveway. Tiffany announced to her mother, “I’m going to marry that man.”

Ten months later they were engaged. “He helped me so much with loving who I am,” Tiffany says. She now wanted to lose the weight on her own terms and her own way. She was doing it for herself, and that made all the difference, she says.

The turnaround After the divorce, Tiffany began using exercise as a mental release from her stressful life. “It was the one thing I didn’t have to think about,” she says. “I would just walk, no music, no one with me, just me and my thoughts. I walked a lot. I was now a single mom with two kids at the age of 26.”

Then everything changed. Tiffany’s brotherin-law insisted she go out with his friend, whom

Her motivation Seldom do we find the need to change unless we have a little discomfort. “My ah-ha moment was the time I stepped on the scale weighing 196.8 pounds, just 3.2 pounds away from being 200 pounds,” Tiffany says. “I said to myself, ‘Tiffany, this is ridiculous.’” But she knew she had to take time out for herself, and that meant cutting back on volunteering and completely focusing on losing the weight.

82 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Tiffany’s Secrets to Keeping It Off Tiffany hates the word diet. “It’s a lifestyle change,” she says. “The biggest thing I’ve learned is that you have to plan.”

On Sundays, before the week starts and everything gets crazy, Tiffany plans her meals and workout schedule. She also plans her water intake; Tiffany drinks a glass of water while getting ready in the morning, taking the kids to school, driving to Jazzercise, coming home from Jazzercise and picking the kids up from school. By the time she finishes the day, she’s consumed 100 ounces of water.

Her go-to favorite foods are anything fresh, protein drinks and raw nuts.

“My family thinks it’s hilarious,” she says, referring to the fact that she even takes her own salad dressing and spray butter when she goes out to eat. “I always ask for no rolls, or I would eat the entire basket.”

There’s a lot to be thankful for, Tiffany says.

“Just being there in my life, I feel like for the first time, I am there mentally and physically.”

Timeline: Age 16: Weight starts becoming a problem. “The vending machine at school was my BFF,” Tiffany says.

Age 18: Starts Weight Watchers, loses 17 pounds and becomes a lifetime member.

Starts working for Weight Watchers.

Age 19: Gets married for the first time.

Age 22: Starts working at Lowe’s in the Cash Office.

Gains weight back.

Starts Metabolic Weight Loss Systems and loses 30 pounds.

Finds out she’s pregnant with her first child.

Age 23: Gains 70 pounds while pregnant with her daughter.

Becomes a stay-at-home mom.

Age 24: Loses the 70 pounds with Weight Watchers.

Age 26: Finds out she’s pregnant with her second child and gains 17 pounds.

Separates/divorces from first husband.

Has to go back to work and works five jobs as a single parent.

Gains a large amount of weight due to working all the time.

Photos courtesy of Tiffany McLemore

“You might not like it so much now but will in the end. I promise.”

— Tiffany McLemore Her friend invited her to Jazzercise, and she decided to give it a try. The dance mix class with a combination of weight training is her favorite class. She attends five to six classes a week and picks up a Body Strong session offered through Jazzercise when it’s available.

Tiffany also knew from her Weight Watchers days that she would need a nutrition coach, so she called her friend Ryan Woodall, who owns Woodall Weight Loss Solutions, and he helped guide her down the path of eating right. With the help of her husband and children, she’s managed to lose 50 pounds and keep it off. She now weighs 147 pounds and wears a size 5.

“I tried on shorts for the first time, and it was a glorious moment,” she says. “I cried in the dressing room.” She now weighs less than she did before having children.

Age 27: Meets her second husband.

Age 28: Marries her second husband and becomes a stay-at-home mom.

Age 31: Starts Jazzercise when her son starts kindergarten. (The only exercise she’d done up until now was walking three miles a day.)

Age 33: Tiffany’s husband deploys for a year. She volunteers for five different organizations. She’s in a major car accident that almost takes her life.

Age 34: Tiffany’s husband comes home in May, and in August she decides it’s time to take care of herself and her family.

Joins Woodall Weight Loss Solutions in Springfield, Missouri, in August and loses 50 pounds by December.

Age 35: Has been doing Jazzercise for four years in August. She starts with two-pound hand weights and is now up to eight pounds. When she leaves class, she feels like a much stronger woman. “The instructors there are great motivators,” Tiffany says, and Jazzercise gives her the energy she needs for the day.

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H e a lth a nd w e ll n e ss

Angie’s Tips

Kale is from the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli, cabbage and Brussel sprouts. It’s worth experimenting with, and here’s why:

a ng i e h u h m a n

Mix It Up!

• Kale is super rich in the vitamin department, with high amounts of vitamins A, C and K.

Varying your fitness training can improve overall performance.

Here are a few to try around town:

• Kale helps reduce inflammation.

• Kale has a 3:1 carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, which is exceptionally high for any vegetable.

• Kale contains more calcium per gram than whole milk and is better absorbed by the body.

• Stair running or walking • Aerial yoga at Wilson’s • CrossFit: Iron Tiger offers classes with varied routines for any fitness level.

• Kickboxing: 9 Round offers 30-minute routines that start every three minutes.

• Barre class • Yoga • Kayaking: Kayak and canoe rentals are available at Finger Lakes State Park.

• Jazzercise • Spinning • Pole dancing: Muse is owned by a professional dancer here in Columbia and is a great overall body workout.

Pin Your Way to Healthy Living Looking for healthy recipes, new exercises or answers to health questions? Here are some Pinterest boards worth following: Wellness Mama: pinterest.com/wellnessmama My Natural Family: pinterest.com/mynaturalfamily

Shape Magazine: pinterest.com/shapemagazine Amy’s Healthy Baking: pinterest.com/amybakeshealthy The Blender Girl: pinterest.com/theblendergirl Skinny Mom: pinterest.com/skinnymom Jeanette’s Healthy Living: pinterest.com/ jeanetteshealth

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by Angela Huhman

Food IQ: : Kale If you’re new to kale, the first thing you might notice is its bitter taste, especially if you’re eating it raw and capturing all the nutritional elements it has to offer. Here’s a little secret: Massage the leaves with salad dressing for 10 minutes before eating so it absorbs the flavor.

For a fresh taste, you can also incorporate lemon or lime; the acidity will neutralize the bitterness. If you still can’t get past the bitter taste, here are a few cooking tips: • Kale is perfect for sautéing.

Add red wine or balsamic vinegar to cut the bitterness.

• Throw kale in the blender when mixing up a smoothie.

• Add it to scrambled eggs, potatoes or anything else you’re cooking on the stovetop.

• Sweet foods go well with kale.

Add agave nectar and fruits, such as pineapple.

• Kale’s sturdy texture is perfect for adding to soups and stews. Just toss it in!

• You can buy kale chips in most grocery stores.

They’re a perfect potato chip replacement.

• Kale is an excellent source of magnesium, required for energy production.

• Kale contains fiber that helps absorb and sweep out DNA-damaging chemicals and toxins.

• Kale is noted as a potential remedy for more than 140 disease states.

How Bad Is It? Paying attention to what you eat is easier than ever with fooducate.com. Type in what food you want to learn more about, and find out how good or bad it is for you based on a simple grading system. Download the mobile app to scan barcodes and track your nutrition on the go.

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H e a lth a nd w e ll n e ss

Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Serves: 2 to 4 | Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Recipe from justataste.com 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound jumbo shrimp, shelled and deveined 1 tablespoon minced garlic ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

¼ cup white wine 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 medium zucchini, cut into noodles Chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions: Place a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the olive oil, and heat it for 1 minute. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, and cook them for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Add the shrimp to the pan, and cook them, stirring as needed, until they are cooked throughout and pink on all sides, about 3 minutes. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Then, using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a bowl, leaving any liquid in the pan.

Increase the heat to medium. Add the white wine and lemon juice to the pan. Using a wooden spoon, scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, cooking the wine and lemon juice for 2 minutes. Add the zucchini noodles, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes. Return the shrimp to the pan, and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts: Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles Serving size: 2 to 4 Calories: Total fat: Cholesterol: Sodium: Potassium: Total carbohydrates: Dietary fiber: Protein:

690 28.8g 931mg 5309mg 1128mg 17.9g 15.5g 86.4g

Meet Tori Tori Summers is a transformational health coach; speaker; creator of Radiance, Thrive and Bliss programs; and the owner of You By Design Health Coaching. She received her B.A. from Stephens College in counseling psychology and, after years of being a stayat-home mom, became a personal trainer and diet coach.

She competed as a natural bodybuilder for five years in her early 40s. Tori is passionate about whole foods, movement that makes you feel good, extreme self care and targeting weight issues not with diets but instead by listening to your personal biofeedback and going deeper behind how you think about food. She also helps clients discover their personal “soul food,” all the things in life that bring them joy, connectedness and make them feel balance. She’s on a mission to change the way we eat and think about food.

columbiahomemagazine.com | 85

H e a lth a nd w e ll n e ss

Hot Yoga?

Get your sweat on!

By Angela Huhman | Photos by ben meldrum

It’s no secret hot yoga is more popular than ever. If you haven’t tried it, hot yoga is a great exercise to increase your flexibility, improve overall strength, help flush toxins from your body and improve blood circulation.

M

More than a year ago, I ventured across a boutique fitness center in the Nifong Shopping Center called Sumits Hot Yoga. My daughter, Amanda, and I signed up for the two-week trial period designed to give you access to unlimited classes for $25.

The staff was great at explaining exactly what we would need for our first class. Because we were new yoginis (females who practice yoga; males who practice are called yogis), we were able to rent everything we needed for our first class. We were given yoga mats and yoga towels. During the class I learned just how important the yoga towel, or chamois, is to keep your yoga mat from turning into a Slip’N Slide! The towel is designed to cover your yoga mat and give you gripping power when you’re dripping sweat from every pore in your body. If you have a beach towel, that would certainly work as well.

My prior experience with yoga was periodically following along to my P90X yoga series on DVD. I felt comfortable with at least knowing poses such as downward-facing dog, tree pose and Vinyasa flow. I expected the instructor to demonstrate the positions, but instead they are trained to talk you through each move. Listening to directions forces practitioners to stop thinking and be completely in the moment. It takes such focus to bend into an eagle pose with arms and legs crossed, looking like a twisted pretzel and balancing.

Being in the present and focused isn’t really an option!

The instructors interpreted the benefits of each pose during the class, which I found very helpful. For instance, 86 | APRIL/MAY 2015

the benefits of the eagle pose includes opening up the hips: for IT band, opening the shoulder joints, increasing circulation to all joints and improving digestion. I was starting to feel better about my twisted position. The 90-minute class consisted of 26 postures, 13 standing and 13 sitting.

The yoga room was very clean, with hardwood floors and the smell of fresh mint (instructors spray you at the end of each class). I ended up right below the heat duct, so it was a little like hot puppy’s breath on my face, but growing up with no air conditioning in a Midwest farmhouse had its advantages to my bearing the heat.

The room temperature hovers around 100 degrees F with added humidity. The heated room helps increase your range of flexibility and allow you to stretch deeper, which helps work through tightness, strains and other injuries.

The heat also increases your heart rate, pumping large volumes of blood to the vessels, causing your body to sweat and cooling your body. I’ve heard people say they feel their skin burns slightly, sweating out toxins due to increased perspiration. I didn’t notice anything, but I did feel refreshed and quickly decided I loved this class.

The magic of this class is that everyone is practicing the same posture at different levels of ability, receiving the same benefits. The standing and sitting postures are in the same order every class. There is an exact position for everyone at every level. The instructors were great at encouraging each practitioner to listen to his or her body.

I found this class to be a total body workout for every muscle and body system. Don’t skip asking your significant other to come with you. Guys can greatly improve their flexibility and receive the health benefits this class has to offer. It really is great for any age, male or female. Namaste!

Calories burned: A 90-minute class can burn up to 1,500 calories, and a 60-minute class can burn up to 1,000 calories, depending on exertion level.

What to bring: Water! Make sure to drink at least 32 ounces before class, adding electrolytes during and after class. You’ll also need a yoga mat, yoga towel or beach towel to cover your yoga mat and a hand towel to wipe the sweat. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before class time.

Activity level recommended: Any fitness level, beginner to advanced. Yoga is an individual practice, not a competitive exercise.

For new customers, Sumits offers two weeks unlimited for $25.

3x per week classes $189 for members $219 for nonmembers Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 5:15 to 6:15 a.m.

Tuesday/Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m.

Monday/Tuesday/Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m.

Sumits Hot Yoga 505 E. Nifong Blvd., Suite 103 573-474-9642 (YOGA) Class cards 1 class card – $15 5 class cards – $65 10 class cards – $120 20 class cards – $225 Unlimited yoga classes 1 month – $139 3 months – $375 6 months – $650 12 months – $1,099 $7 community classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays at noon. Anyone is welcome; you don’t have to have a current package to attend.

Class schedule is available online at sumitsyogacolumbia.com

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l ove a nd r e l at i o n s h i p s

Bond

To join two or more individuals in a relationship

By Nellie Symm Gruender In 2000 my mom, Ida Reynolds, suffered a fall that led to the amputation of her leg. Being wheelchair bound in her home, which had numerous stairs, was not an option. With agreement from Gene and Zach, we looked for a new house near Austin so Mom could move in and become a part of our family. We became a multigenerational, or a “sandwich,” family with three generations living under one roof.

Overnight I became the social director; manager; arbitrator; and always the daughter, mother and wife sandwiched between two generations. Mom and Zach had the same basic needs of food, shelter and social interaction.

Providing shelter became the easiest part of the equation.

Mom was furious with me because she no longer had a friend. She refused a new companion and spent her days crocheting, doing puzzles and embroidery work.

Having a teenager in the house meant a constant stream of friends, coordination of activities and general management of Zach’s life.

Each day brought the challenge of monitoring Zach’s choices and allowing him increasing independence while offering him lessons on how to become a responsible young adult.

Mom had weekly doctor appointments and physical therapy and needed some assistance with bathing and other activities. We had at least one or two outside-the-house excursions each week to keep her engaged in the world.

• One in six Americans lives in a multigenerational household.

• The number rose from 46.5 million in 2007 to 51.4 million by the end of 2009.

• In 1980, 12 percent of the U.S. population was multigenerational. By 2010, that number increased to 16.1 percent.

• 4.2 million of the 113.6 million U.S. households consist of three or more generations.*

The mother-daughter relationship is almost always complex. Having this relationship under one roof sometimes became downright tense. There were the comments about my cooking and my discipline of Zach. Then there was the day when I was leaving for a meeting, and Mom quipped, “I can't believe a woman your age is going out in a skirt that short.” Being an adult with a live-in parent became a lesson in patience and tolerance.

Because Gene was frequently working out of town, he phoned in his support and words of wisdom when I needed perspective. He loved and cared for my mom as much as I did, and there were times when I think Mom preferred his company to mine.

I was very tuned into everyone’s needs, but I never lost sight of my own. Gene and I would frequently book a hotel room for the weekend where we had breakfast in bed and savored our special time together. Mom and Zach took charge of each other, and both lived up to their responsibilities. Mom saw these mini vacations as frivolous; I saw them as an oasis of sanity.

I

Zach was the typical teenager who led the fast and furious life of school, sports, dating and friends. Mom was a bright, independent woman who lived in one town for 80 years, was plucked from her home and found herself in Texas with the restriction of a wheelchair.

A typical day meant getting up at 5 a.m., getting dressed for work and getting Zach to crosscountry practice at 6. Next, I went back to the house to be sure Mom got out of bed and fix her breakfast and something for lunch. I then went back and got Zach to take him to school before heading to work at 8.

My greatest challenge was occupying Mom during the day. I hired a companion, whom Mom really clicked with. They chatted, cooked and enjoyed each other a couple times a week.

This worked great until the companion quit, and

Despite the challenges, having a multigenerational household became one of the greatest blessings our family could have. Mom

and I got to share precious quality time. Zach

had the opportunity to interact with his Nana

and appreciate her history and talents. Mom got

to have an up-close and personal view of her

grandson as he grew into an incredible young man.

In 2004 Zach left home to go to college, and in

2008 my mom died. Gene and I found ourselves

facing life as empty nesters. Although we enjoyed our renewed freedom, we came to realize that

living in a multigenerational family can be a huge “sandwich” filled with love.

* Source: Generations United, gu.org/ OURWORK/Multigenerational/

MultigenerationalHouseholdInformation.aspx columbiahomemagazine.com | 89

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eng a ge m ent Q&A 10-19-2013

Engagement Q&A

SPON SORED BY

By Sarah Bergher

Jacob Harrison and Shelby Jobe

Christina Savel and Michael Link

CH: How did you two meet? When did you meet?

Christina: Michael’s sister, Lindsay, and I were friends in the same sorority at Mizzou. After graduating in 2008, she moved to Boston, but we stayed in touch.

Following a family vacation, Lindsay posted pictures to her Facebook page.

Immediately, I reached out to her and said, “So when are you going to introduce me to your older brother?” A few weeks later, Lindsay had plans to be in St. Louis and invited me to the Mizzou vs. Illinois basketball game on Dec. 22, 2010.

Michael was also going to be there with friends. We met at the game, Mizzou won, and we went out all night to celebrate the Braggin’ Rights victory. A few years later, we’re living in Columbia, engaged and will be married on Aug. 2, 2015. I am forever indebted to Lindsay!

Michael: Mizzou won the game, and Christina won my heart.

Michael: Aug. 2, 2014, beneath the famous rock bridge at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park. I’ll never forget the look on her face the first time she saw her ring.

CH: What’s your favorite quality about the other person?

Christina: My favorite quality about Michael is his thoughtfulness. He is so considerate and always puts others first.

I love his generosity and couldn’t ask for a better future husband.

Michael: Her kind heart CH: What are three must-haves for your wedding day?

Christina: Beach, DJ Diego and our closest friends and family Michael: Family, friends and fun CH: If you could go anywhere for your honeymoon, where would it be?

CH: What’s the proposal story?

Christina: Michael and I got engaged on Aug. 2, 2014. Summer is my favorite season, and we had the perfect day. We went on a morning run and then spent the afternoon at the pool. Following the pool, Michael had planned for us to go on a hike. We went to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, where he got down on one knee and changed my life forever.

Christina: Europe Michael: Italy and Switzerland CH: What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Christina: I’m really looking forward to officially starting our lives together and making (more) memories in Columbia. I can’t wait to be Michael’s wife!

Michael: Starting a family — eventually.

CH: How did you two meet? When did you meet?

CH: What are three must-haves for your wedding day?

Shelby: We met my freshman year at William Woods University. We have a mutual friend who introduced us.

Jacob: She introduced us after Shelby saw me around campus and instantly fell in love!

Shelby: My groom, cupcakes and party music for the reception. Besides all the people we love being there, of course.

Jacob: Family, friends and alcohol. Oh, and Shelby, too!

CH: What’s the proposal story?

Shelby: Jacob told me we were meeting his brother to play catch. I fell for it, and when we showed up, he had the ring inside a baseball and had me close my eyes.

When I opened them, he was on one knee with the baseball opened up, showing me the ring.

Jacob: Our relationship revolved around baseball for the first two and a half years. I played ball at William Woods, and Shelby rarely missed watching me play. She didn’t immediately say yes; she just kind of stared at me, completely shocked.

CH: What’s your favorite quality about the other person?

Shelby: Jacob has such a big heart, and he would do anything for anyone. He is also a very forgiving person and tends to always see the good in others.

Jacob: I love the way she cares about others, and her smile always brightens my day.

CH: If you could go anywhere for your honeymoon, where would it be?

Shelby: The beach! My dream honeymoon would be Greece, but I think we are leaning toward Mexico.

Jacob: Wherever makes Shelby happy. I think the mountains would be awesome, but I think the beach is probably where we’ll end up.

CH: What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Shelby: I’m excited to see Jacob every day and start our journey together. At some point, we want to start a family. I’m also looking forward to having someone to do my laundry. Totally kidding! I’m excited to come home every day and tell Jacob about all the ups and downs and face it together.

Jacob: Seeing Shelby every day and getting to know each other better. Being able to share all of life’s special moments together is something I’m definitely

looking forward to.

If you would like your engagement featured in Columbia Home, email your photo to audrey@businesstimescompany.com columbiahomemagazine.com | 91

wedd i ngs

The Perfect Day

By Audrey sharp | photos by LOVE TREE STUDIOS

I

It all started with a night on the town. Tony and Liz Gragnani met through mutual friends in January 2010 in downtown Columbia. It didn’t take long before they knew they were meant to be together. Tony got down on one knee in March 2012 at Ragtag Cinema. From that point on, they planned their wedding, and when it came down to it, the only thing they had to worry about on their special day was who would feed their dog, Toby.

Columbia wasn’t the obvious choice

for Tony and Liz. He’s originally from St. Louis, and she’s from Jackson, Missouri.

The two spent nearly 10 years here, both

getting their undergraduate degrees from the University of Missouri. Tony also

received his master’s and specialist degrees from MU, and Liz received her Master

of Education in school counseling from Stephens College. Tony had also been

teaching with Columbia Public Schools

since 2006. With the option of having an

“Our wedding planner, Natalie Imhoff of The Bridal Solution, was the key to getting everything to run smoothly.”

— Liz Gragnani

92 | APRIL/MAY 2015

out-of-town wedding, they had a tough decision to make.

“We had spent nearly 10 years here, but I knew I wanted my wedding at Stephens Chapel and my reception at Kimball Ballroom,” Liz says.

The day seemed to go perfectly smoothly with the help of the vendors that were putting everything together.

“Our wedding planner, Natalie Imhoff of The Bridal Solution, was the key to getting everything to run smoothly,” Liz says. “She

introduced us to our wonderful photographers at Love Tree Studios and recommended Allen Anderson’s Just Fabulous Flowers in Ashland.

I completely trusted all of our vendors and Natalie, which left me and my mother with nothing to worry about.”

Entertaining guests was a high priority for Tony and Liz. They had dueling pianos from The Big Bang in St. Louis.

“They were perfect for our reception and made sure everyone was having a great time,” Liz says. “This gave Tony and I the chance to celebrate with all of our family and friends.”

Fresh Ideas Food Service provided the delicious food at Tony and Liz’s reception.

“I heard that everyone absolutely loved all of our food, which was one of the most important things to Tony and I,” Liz says. “I got the most comments about our beef wellington appetizers, our duet entrée with filet and salmon, and our bruschetta appetizer bar.”

Wedding planning can’t be done in a day, but with the help of great vendors, it sure can speed up the process. The best thing to hear from a bride after her big day is, “I wouldn’t change a thing.” Good thing that’s what Liz said, too.

Wedding section sponsored by: fresh ideas food service 573-445-4321 columbiahomemagazine.com | 93

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Ann i ve r s a r y

‘Branded’ Love

Beginning in the back of a one-room schoolhouse, this love story was 75 years in the making.

I

By Audrey Sharp | Photos supplied by Donna Hardin

It all started in the back of a southern Missouri one-room schoolhouse. He was 9; she was 8. During the winter, the only thing that could heat the room was a fire that sat perfectly in the middle of the room. Every so often, the teacher had to poke the fire to keep it going. Before Velva knew what had happened, Raymond had branded her on the arm with the fiery hot poker — for life. Who knew that 75 years later, their love would have truly stood the test of time?

Raymond and Velva Breuer have been dating since 1938. But really, they’ve known each other since they attended that one-room schoolhouse near St. James, Missouri. They were married young and took no time starting their family on the dairy farm. Together, they have had six children: Billie Ray, Sharon Kay (died in 2010), Bobby Joe, Thomas Elmer, Ronald Eugene (died in 2009) and Donna Sue. They lived on the farm for many years before relocating to North Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; and eventually made their way back to Hallsville, Missouri. Velva was a stay-at-home mom while her children were

young until three of her sons were deployed for the Vietnam War and World War II. “I couldn’t just stay home and think about them,” Velva says. “I ended up getting a job to keep myself busy.”

Raymond worked for Ford Motor Co. for more than 30 years, preached for more than 10 years and even owned his own jewelry business, Raz Rox Silversmith. Many of the pieces Velva wears were handmade by Raymond.

“When we moved to Hallsville, we had to move 10,000 pounds of rock for my business,” Raymond says. “Now that was an expensive move!”

When two people have been together for as long as Raymond and Velva, there are many historical events they’ll never forget.

“I remember when man walked on the moon for the very first time,” Raymond says. “We were camping with another family, and we had the radio on. I took out my binoculars; of course, I couldn’t see him, but I looked up to the sky anyways. Our friends’ little girl then took my binoc-

ulars and yelled: “I can see him! I can see him!” and we all just had to giggle.”

Not only did they travel around the country, but Raymond and Velva also took many vacations to Israel and Jordan. The two are deeply rooted in their faith and host a bible study at Boone Landing on Thursday evenings.

“We have to compete with the bingo on Thursdays, but we still have a nice, consistent turnout,” Raymond says.

Their love has stood the test of time, travel and terror. From being branded on the arm to raising six wonderful children, Raymond and Velva’s love story truly is one of a kind.

Fun facts about Raymond and Velva Family: Six children, 18 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, 11 great-greatgrandchildren Advice: Don’t carry an argument to bed with you.

Favorite bible passage: Psalm 23 columbiahomemagazine.com | 95

e f i L l a e R

REAL PEOPLE

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m o m m y c h r o n i cl e s

Creating a Momster

I

By Jill Orr

I’m committing one of the cardinal sins of writing by basing this entire essay on a cliché, but here goes: Motherhood changes you. The thing is, clichés become clichés for a reason. And the truth is that the experience of becoming a mother, whether by nature or nurture, impacts a woman in fundamental and profound ways.

It also affects a woman in superficial and trivial ways. It isn’t that you become an entirely different person the moment you hold your newborn baby in your arms, but I do believe the experience is a universally transformative one.

It is also a knife that cuts both ways because some of the changes you undergo when you become a mom are good ones: others, not so much. Never is this more apparent than when a new mother is in the company of an old more experienced mother. We old seasoned mothers love nothing more than laughing at observing the ways our formerly childless friends transform from free and easy, up-for-anything, let’s-eatat-8 women into sleep-deprived, over-analytical, was-that-apple-you-gave-Billy-organic-locallysourced-non-GMO-and-cruelty-free mothers.

We love this because we’ve been there. And we, too, were mocked by the old bags wise women who came before us and rolled their eyes at our bath thermometers and bottle warmers. And they were mocked by their elders for using disposable diapers and seatbelts. It’s the circle of life.

Every new generation of mothers makes changes that seem crazy to the ones who’ve gone before. But there are a few constant changes, if you will, in the experience of becoming Mom that persist regardless of the latest parenting trends.

Changes to your level of paranoia The moment you realize that you are the first line of defense for another life form, the world becomes a much scarier place. Sharp corners, uneven pavement, hot plates, tread-less socks, top-heavy children: They all become ER visits waiting to happen. You’ve heard of people who see the glass as half empty? Well, new mothers see the glass as half full. Half full of poison. And sitting too close to the edge.

Changes to what you think constitutes interesting conversation

You used to talk about campaign finance reform and the mounting national debt, but these days you are more likely to be found discussing the color, size, shape and frequency of poops. Here is a reality check, new mommies: This is not interesting conversation to anyone, with the possible exception of your child’s pediatrician.

The same goes for discussions of sleep schedules, attachment parenting, feeding habits, nipple shields, episiotomies, potty training and/or boogers.

Changes to the clock

Sleeping late now means anything past 6:30a.m.

And if your phone rings at 10 p.m., you immediately ask, “Who is calling so late?”

Changes to your sex drive

As a mother of a newborn, you already have one needy creature who is all over you all the time.

Your excitement about another such creature is, generally speaking, low.

The good news is that most of these changes settle with time. Eventually, you loosen up, regain your normal speech patterns and stay out past 11 p.m. And the best part is that in the end, you’re left with the kinds of changes you actually want: a heart that is infinitely bigger than it was before, patience that you didn’t know you were capable of and an amount of love and joy that you never knew was possible. Oh, and stretch marks. Those are yours to keep.

Changes to the way you talk

Even though you have a master’s degree in linguistics, you refer to yourself in the third person. You say the word potty. You talk for your infant daughter. You rhyme everything. The words you cannot rhyme, you add “ie” to the end of. Your voice is so high that only bats and coyotes can hear you. You give nicknames to all food, including but not limited to: nanners, noodlies, chick-chick, wawa and num num sketti.

Jill Orr Jill is a stay-at-home mom of two (an odd title because she is rarely ever at home). In her pre-Mommy days, she graduated from the University of Missouri with an undergraduate degree in journalism and a master's in social work, with an emphasis on children and family studies. But she wishes she would have gotten a Ph.D. in What's For Dinner and How to Get Bubblegum Out of the Carpet. That would have served her better.

Read her blog at jillsorr.com • Follow Jill on

@jillsorr

columbiahomemagazine.com | 97

Passions

98 | APRIL/MAY 2015

a bo u t t o w n

Christian Fellowship School’s Changing Hearts Gala

Brandon and Constance Gillaspie Drs. Aaron and Alicyn Boehmer Lainie and Nick Giovanni Cliff Miller

Anna and Larry Gross

Justin and Melissa Malone Dan and Kelly Hoover Brittany and Dr. Brad Miller Meg and Joe Bechtold

Christian Fellowship School’s Changing Hearts Gala

The Christian Fellowship School’s Changing Hearts Gala was held on Feb. 7 at the Kimball Ballroom on the Stephens College campus. The event was held to raise awareness for the Christian, private, accredited school and to raise funds for the school’s expansion, tuition assistance and teacher/ classroom needs. More than $55,000 was raised at the event that evening.

Gayle and Rich Miller

Josh and Erin Hendershott Jason and Mindy Van Eaton DJ and Michelle Nunamaker Rob and Christi Wolverton Mindy and Todd Fuller

Photos by Michael DeSantis Photography

columbiahomemagazine.com | 99

a bo u t t o w n

Red Shoe Gala

Melissa, Sally and Zach Silvers

Bill and Jolene Schulz, Betsy and Tim Vicente

Ashley and Stephen Parshall

Wendy Wiederhold and Marty Siddall

Angela Huntington and Robert Condron

Red Shoe Gala Mary and Ron Ebert

Steve Sowers, Robert Condron and Mark Fenner

100 | APRIL/MAY 2015

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mid-Missouri hosted its annual Red Shoe Gala on Feb. 19.

Proceeds from the event benefit the local Ronald McDonald House.

Mark Mehle, Rodney and Terri Gray

Photos by Creative Photo

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m en we l o v e

Casey

B u c kma n

Age:

35

Johnny

Age:

36

Eak e r

Profession: Professional wedding, portrait, event and commercial photographer

Profession: I am the video director/producer for Clapboard Pictures.

Childhood dream career: Robin Hood (Men in Tights version)

Childhood dream career: I always wanted to be a professional baseball player for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Obviously, my career path took me a little bit of a different direction.

Words you live by: Stay close to your faith, be a light and a smile in the world and help somebody when you can.

Advice you’d give your teenage self: 1. Don’t worry.

The girls will realize the dorks are the good guys someday soon.

2. Pay attention to the little things that prompt happiness and passion in your day. Let them be the compass for your vocation throughout life.

Advice you give your kids most often: Ask God, love your brother and give extra love to people who don’t seem to get much.

Next item on your bucket list: Qualify for the Boston Marathon.

Favorite adult beverage: Top-shelf margarita on the rocks, extra salt, hold the lime.

Words you live by: I always tell others and remind myself these words: Be intentional. Don’t just exist.

Advice you’d give your teenage self: If I could go back and give myself advice, I would probably say: “You have the rest of your life to work your a** off. Take a minute, figure out what your passions are, and make money doing that.”

Advice you give your kids most often: You choose the attitude you want to have each day. I think this is crucial to living your life to the fullest and living out your passion each and every day.

Next item on your bucket list: Bora Bora!

Favorite adult beverage: A good cold beer.

Submit a man in your life for Men We Love at columbiahomemagazine.com. columbiahomemagazine.com | 103

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Hospital...............................................................................................................................................105 Bright City Lights...........................................................................................................................................22 Budget Blinds...................................................................................................................................................47 Busch's Florist................................................................................................................................................47 Canterbury Hill Winery...........................................................................................................................102 Carpet One.....................................................................................................................................................8 & 9 Casey Buckman Photography................................................................................................................. 11 Central Dairy and Ice Cream Company.............................................................................................30 Cha Boutique....................................................................................................................................................102 CMSE Giving Gardens.................................................................................................................................... 44 Commerce Bank.................................................................................................................................................. 3 Copeland Construction and Painting....................................................................................64 & 94 Dave Griggs Flooring America................................................................................................................ 14 Designer Kitchens & Baths...................................................................................................................... 80 Dr. Shelley Lyle...............................................................................................................................................58 Ecowater Systems........................................................................................................................................57 Edible Arrangements..................................................................................................................................94 Edward Jones.................................................................................................................................................... 10 European Wax Center..................................................................................................................................12 Father Tolton Catholic High School..................................................................................................43 GIRL...........................................................................................................................................................................35 Jazzercise...........................................................................................................................................................78 JES Holdings...................................................................................................................................................... 88 Johnston Paint & Decorating Direct..................................................................................................76 Kent's Floral....................................................................................................................................................20 Kliethermes Homes.......................................................................................................................................69 La Belle Cabinetry & Lighting.................................................................................................................36 Landmark Bank..............................................................................................................................................107 LC Betz Jewelers............................................................................................................................................90

Les Bourgeios................................................................................................................................................ 108 Lifestyles Furniture...................................................................................................................................43 Lincoln University.........................................................................................................................................58 Lutheran Family & Childrens Services........................................................................................... 101 Magnolia Critical Care and Internal Medicine......................................................................... 101 Massage Envy ....................................................................................................................................................12 Mid-City Lumber Co........................................................................................................................................57 Missouri Vein Care.............................................................................................................................................2 Organize That Space.................................................................................................................................... 80 Passions.................................................................................................................................................................13 Peggy Jean's Pies.......................................................................................................................................... 101 Personal Touch Cleaning Service......................................................................................................28 Phoenix Homecare..........................................................................................................................................35 Piotter Nursery..............................................................................................................................................76 PS Gallery.......................................................................................................................................................... 44 Restoration Eyecare....................................................................................................................................22 Room 38.................................................................................................................................................................90 Services for Independent Living..........................................................................................................98 Shelter Insurance Agents..........................................................................................................................7 State Farm Insurance - Stephanie Wilmsmeyer......................................................................... 18 Studio Home.......................................................................................................................................................... 4 Superior Garden Center/Rost Landscape.....................................................................................30 Tallulahs............................................................................................................................................................64 Tiger Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center...........................................................................28 University of Missouri Health Care........................................................................................... 5 & 87 Willett and Patton Dentistry............................................................................................................ 104 Wilson's Fitness.............................................................................................................................................96 Columbia Home magazine is published by The Business Times Co., 2001 Corporate Place, Suite 100, Columbia, Mo., 65202. (573) 499-1830. Copyright The Business Times Co., 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

When it comes to your smile, you deserve the in Columbia!

best

Call us to schedule a dentist appointment you’ll actually enjoy. From cosmetic to sedation, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional care.

Conscious Sedation is taught as part of a post-graduate residence program approved by the America Dental Association. Dr. Willett and Dr. Patton have completed an American Dental Association approved program in which conscious sedation is taught. Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Dentistry are specialty areas not recognized by the A.D.A. that require no specific educational training to advertise these services.

573.445.5300 | 1601 Chapel Hill Rd. | Columbia, MO | WillettandPattonDDS.com 104 | APRIL/MAY 2015

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S t r ong w o m a n

Meet Dr. Kristin Sohl Medical Director, MU Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Years in Columbia: 17 Original hometown: Herndon, Virginia, and Chesterfield, Missouri Family: My husband, David; son, Alexander; and daughter, Isabella

Favorite restaurant to frequent: Thip Thai What I do for fun: I love to travel, ride bikes around town and the neighborhood with my family and read some of my favorite books!

On a typical weekday night, I am: You can usually find me fixing dinner with my family, helping my kids with their homework, getting to bed at a decent time and then working (again)!

Moment in my life that defined me personally or professionally: My husband and I got married young and had my son while I was in college. We had both decided to further our degrees, so I was still on track for medicine school at the University of Missouri when he was born! It wasn’t easy, but it challenged me and taught me time management and the importance of being supportive of one another.

In a single word, I am: Resilient 106 | APRIL/MAY 2015

The question I hate getting: Oh goodness…

“Do vaccines cause autism?”

The person I admire most and why: I most admire the parents of my patients that I work closely with at The Thompson Center. They teach me more about the human spirit, love and resiliency than I could ever teach them.

What I love most about my job: Every day at work, I’m able to be a voice for children every day.

Every decision I make, I make while keeping the children in my mind and thinking about what is truly best for them.

Favorite flower: Hot pink Gerber daisy Favorite accessory: Kaleidoscope necklace Favorite cocktail: Cake vodka and raspberry lemonade

Photo by Ben meldrum

A Age: 35

Guilty pleasure: Watching TV (in my “spare” time) Hobbies: Traveling and reading Favorite charity event: Thompson Center “It's in the Cards” Gala. This will be our 9th year, and it’s happening on April 30 at the Renaissance Grand Hotel St. Louis, Mo. This year, our co-chairs are Matt and Mackenzie Carpenter. A huge thank you for helping us make it happen!

My favorite cocktail

My guilty pleasure

Favorite Flower

It’s never too late.

Countless Americans work hard all their lives but never make retirement planning a priority. You haven’t missed your chance. Isn’t it time you became a Landmark?

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columbiahomemagazine.com | 107

Columbia home | 2001 Corporate Place, Ste. 100 | Columbia, MO 65202

Now open for the season, daily from noon to sunset

Celebrating 30 Years!

LBV EVENTS There is always an abundance of events happening at LBV. Looking for fun things to do as the weather warms up? Check out the “Upcoming Events� page on our website!

A

THE A-FRAME The Les Bourgeois A-Frame is a popular outdoor destination with students, travelers, and families seeking the perfect scenic picnic spot with local flavor.

www.MissouriWine.com | 14020 W. Hwy BB, Rocheport, MO 65279 | 800-690-1830 |

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