COMO | The Small Business Issue 2023

ALANA HARPER Founder and Owner of Alana Harper Esthetics

What’s your CoMo?

No

RICHARD KING

What is your go to place to take a visitor in Columbia?

Lately, it’s been Coopers. Mizzou Campus/downtown

What’s your fave pastime in Columbia?

Walking/biking the trails.

What do you think is Columbia’s best kept secret?

Missouri River Relief

How would you describe Columbia in one word? The Best.

A Culinary Homecoming

With the grand reopening of Twain: Missouri BBQ and Taproom, Chef Jason Grubbs celebrates Missouri's heritage through mouthwatering barbecue, local libations, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Chef Jason Grubbs comes back to his roots invigorating Twain: Missouri BBQ and Taproom with his classic smoked barbecue, generations in the making.

“I’ve always loved barbecue,” he says. “My family comes from Mississippi, and my great-grandfather had a smokehouse out back. I’ve put 15 years of my life into perfecting these barbecue recipes, and it feels like I’m rediscovering my roots.”

Grubbs' new home, Twain, named for Mark Twain - arguably Missouri's most famous son - charms those that venture through its doors with all things Missouri. It is truly a celebration of all things local. An array of liquor encircling the state and encompassing some 118 bottles is set astride over 20 varieties of Missouri’s most superior craft beers. Its shelves boast an array of curiosities, from games to books to objects unknown, which guests are encouraged to explore.

The new barbecue menu shares the same at-ease style as the surroundings. “There is nothing fancy about what we are doing.” Grubbs continues. “We wanted classic barbecue done really well.”

Twain boasts house-smoked meats that are made fresh daily, house-created spice blends, and from-scratch sides like baked beans, house-cured pickles and true southern collard greens. Even the bread is baked on site.

The commitment to being local and steeped history is in every detail: All of the woodwork was made by Amish craftsmen in Audrain County. The hightops and game tables are fashioned from wood reclaimed from a Missouri barn originally constructed in 1928, the same year that the Tiger Hotel was built. The face of the bar and namesake sign are also hewn from reclaimed wood, this time from a 70 year old barn just north of Columbia.

After serving in the military as a search and rescue swimmer and hospital corpsman, Grubbs found his passion in the culinary arts: Starting at Les Bourgeois Vineyards before enrolling in the pres-

tigious Culinary Institute of America (fellow alums include Anthony Bourdain and Grant Achatz). After graduating he honed his skills working under James Beard award winners as well as a stint with a Michelin starred chef.

Being close to home was the catalyst for Grubbs’ move back to Missouri, as he and his partner recently welcomed their first child, Olive. It’s incredible to see all he’s accomplished in the short time he has been back in Columbia and no doubt there’ll be more excitement to come as Grubbs also leads the culinary team at another local favorite, Glenn’s Cafe.

TWAIN: MISSOURI BBQ AND TAPROOM

Facebook: /twaincomo

Instagram: @twaincomo

thetigerhotel.com/eat-and-drink

We are a small local business, so we know the struggles and the joy that comes with that. We take pride in knowing so many of our local friends in the small business world and continue to work diligently to share your stories.

One of the ways we do so is by being actively involved with the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. Several of our sta members sit on a multitude of di erent boards and committees within the chamber. One of our favorite events every year is Showcase CoMo. It’s a long 12-hour day, but very worth it!

Showcase CoMo puts over 100 small local businesses under one roof, giving them the opportunity to show o their services and network with others. We have formed some incredible relationships and partnerships through this event. Minus our “M” balloon that de ated every hour, on the hour, we had an incredible time at this year’s showcase and can’t wait for the years to come!

Another annual chamber event that we are proud to be a part of is the small business of the year awards. A huge congratulation goes out to all of this year’s nalists: Cooper’s Ridge Event Venue, Pixel Jam Digital, e Missouri Symphony, the ACA Business Club, and this year’s winner, Achieve Balance Chiropractic. What a week of celebrations! e chamber goes above and beyond to show these businesses the love and recognition they deserve. Be thinking about who you should nominate for 2024.

ere are so many opportunities in our community for small businesses and we cannot encourage you enough to get involved! We know it can be scary, but we can promise it will be worth it. Joining the chamber and becoming involved through its di erent platforms is a great way to start. Volunteer, go to events, and engage with nonpro ts.

How can we help you? We want to meet you, we want to share your stories, we want to help you succeed. We believe in this community so much that it is literally the name of our company. And the heart of this community is the small businesses. We will continue to do our part by meeting as many of you as possible, sharing your stories, and encouraging everyone to shop smalland to shop locally.

Our doors, our phones, and our emails are always open. Reach out to us and let us know how we can help you as a small business. Whether that’s advertising, sharing and/or participating in an event, spreading some good news ... the possibilities are endless. Help us, help you.

Kim@comomag.com

Be kind to each other COMO! Shop small, shop local.

Small businesses are what make our world go round.

KIM AMBRA , EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

XO,

COMO Magazine’s booth at Showcase CoMo 2023.

Alana Harper, founder and owner of Alana Harper Esthetics.

Photo by: Anthony Jinson

Representing Voices from All Different Walks of Life.

We take pride in representing our community well and we couldn’t do what we do without our COMO Magazine advisory board. Thank You!

Beth Bramstedt

Associate Pastor Christian Fellowship Church

Kris Husted

Senior Content Editor NPR Midwest Newsroom

Heather Brown Strategic Partnership Officer Harry S Truman VA Hospital

Amanda Jacobs Owner Jacobs Property Management

Chris Cottle Walk Manager

Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter

Darren Morton Program Director Turning Point

Sam Fleury Assistant Vice President, Strategic Communications, Columbia College

Alex George Owner Skylark Bookshop Executive Director Unbound Book Festival Author

Chris Horn

Sr. Reinsurance Manager American Family Insurance

David Nivens

Chief Executive Officer Midwest Computech

Megan Steen Chief Operating Officer, Central Region Burrell Behavioral Health

Nathan Todd

Barbra Horrell Consultant Horrell Associates

Jeremiah Hunter Assistant Police Chief Commander Investigations Bureau Columbia Police Department

Business Services Specialist First State Community Bank

Wende Wagner Director of Philanthropy The Missouri Symphony

President Erica Pefferman | Erica@comomag.com

EDITORIAL

Publisher | Erica Pefferman Erica@comomag.com

Editor-in-Chief | Kim Ambra Kim@comomag.com

Digital Editor | Jodie Jackson Jr Jodie@comomag.com

DESIGN

Creative Director | Kate Morrow Kate@comomag.com

Senior Designer | Jordan Watts Jordan@comomag.com

MARKETING

Director of Account Services

Amanda Melton Amanda@comomag.com

Marketing Representative Sarah Hempelmann Sarah@comomag.com

Marketing Representative

Becky Roberts Becky@comomag.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lana Eklund, Madi Green, Anthony Jinson, Chris Padgett

MARKETING

Director of Sales | Charles Bruce Charles@comomag.com

Director of Events | Scott Callahan Scott@comomag.com

OUR MISSION

To inspire, educate, and entertain the citizens of Columbia with quality, relevant content that reflects Columbia’s business environment, lifestyle, and community spirit.

CONTACT

The COMO Companies 404 Portland, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 499-1830 | comomag.com @wearecomomag

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Magazines are $5.95 an issue. Subscription rate is $39 for 12 issues for one year or $69 for 24 issues for two years. Subscribe at comomag.com or by phone.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Taylor Ambra, Candice Ball, Alicia Belmore, Kathryn Dotson, Lauren Sable Freiman, Jules Graebner, Jodie Jackson Jr, Hoss Koetting, Amanda Long, Jennifer Truesdale, Emmi Weiner, Dr. Brian Yearwood

58

WHERE IDEAS GROW

The Arcade District creates space for innovation.

49

STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

Columbia’s business landscape features vibrant old-timers.

Reflections

BY CANDICE BALL

If you’ve visited the North Village area, you’ve probably marveled at the colorful, expansive mural in Wabash Alley. At 70 feet by 30 feet, the Wishes and Re ections mural was created to represent Columbia's past and its present.

e large tree in the mural depicts real messages from real people, all of which reect personal and public wishes for a happier, brighter future. Next to the tree is a gurative window into Columbia’s culture, including representations of the Tiger Hotel, Ernie’s Diner, Columbia’s City Hall, Jesse Hall, and the Mizzou Columns. e artist behind Wishes and Re ections is Shannon Webster, who has an art studio and gallery in the heart of the district at 1023 E. Walnut St.

Webster says the mural rst took form on his computer.

"I took a picture of a big, blank brick wall and started looking at tons and tons of concepts. at wish tree," Webster explains, "I wanted something meaningful: I wanted to have something to tie it to." e "wish tags" connected to the tree also came as feedback from others.

" ere was such a wide range of things people wanted to add,” he adds, noting that the range of emotions, hopes, and prayers added to the role the mural serves.

Originally from Boonville, Webster is known for his use of di erent mediums — including oil paint, acrylic paint, and mixed media — and his work frequently highlights architecture and technical structures. He enjoys using texture, color, and di erent materials to illustrate the places he’s been and the way he sees those places. Webster chooses the materials to create a piece based on the mood he’s trying to create.

Inspiration and in uence from a young age helped guide him toward the pieces he creates now.

“I can remember, even back in third grade, that I loved to draw,” Webster says. “So that’s

what I did. And then the older you get, you start expanding your skills and stu . en I won a few little art contests for kids, and I got a lot of encouragement from teachers. I had some really good teachers, and I think a lot of kids stop doing art in fth or sixth grade, and that encouragement really solidi ed for me that I was going to be some kind of an artist.”

Indeed, Webster says that one of his breakthrough moments happened at a young age. He describes an exercise that an art teacher presented to him when he was in fth grade, in which the teacher provided her students with an abstract illustration — a wavy line, for example — and asked her students to use their imaginations to create something unique.

“Up until then, I was just somebody else who was drawing," Webster says. “ is one assignment, it’s such a simple idea, but it taught me that I didn’t have to do what everybody else is doing. An object, or a concept, can turn into something unique and personal. I remember it to this day."

Webster also houses his design business in his studio: he works to create artwork for national brands, and he works with the University of Missouri Museum, also serving on its board.

SHANNON WEBSTER STUDIO & GALLERY www.shannonwebster.art

Shannon Webster’s work creates a window into the mind of the artist and his community.

Photo by Jonathan Asher

Growth Through Change

Shampooches has grown from a mobile pet groomer into a thriving brick-and-mortar shop.

BY ALICIA BELMORE

While many businesses shifted from brick-and-mortar, in-ofce operations to mobile, work from home, and hybrid settings because of the COVID pandemic, Mandy Crane had the opposite experience.

Her mobile pet grooming venture, Shampooches, got started in 2018 providing services for dog and cat fur babies, as well as goats. Two years later, as the pandemic gripped the economy and pinched everyone’s wallets and businesses, the increasing price of gas and repairs for Crane’s mobile, four-wheeled business — a truck pulling an 18-foot trailer — was especially challenging.

When her generator broke down in 2019, Crane knew it was time to make a change and when the pandemic pushed

operating costs even higher, she decided to open her shop in northeast Columbia, where Shampooches continues to grow and care for family pets.

“I love building relationships with the pets I take care of and their families. I just enjoy spending time with the pets and to give them a good experience,” Crane says. Her background as a veterinary tech gives her the knowledge and eye to provide advice for pet owners on speci cs such as thickness of the coat or skin conditions.

Her goal is to help clients make their pets happier and healthier. During grooming, she eases a pet’s anxiety by making her charge — whether a dog, cat, or goat — as comfortable as possible. Crane also specializes in caring for pets with nervous or aggressive behaviors.

Crane also has a vital connection with Unchained Melodies, a nonpro t dog rescue organization. When the need arises, she donates time and skill giving free washes and grooming for pups in crisis.

e future looks bright for Shampooches. Crane hopes to open a second location in or near Wooldridge, about 20 miles west of Columbia o Highway 179. e new location would expand o erings to grooming and boarding for dogs and cats, as well as horses.

SHAMPOOCHES GROOMING

1621 Towne Dr. Suite F

shampoochesgroomingmo.com

Call or text: 573-476-5028

Chico

New Adventures Await

Creating a space for seniors to make connections and continue learning.

BY EMMI WEINER

In 1995, a group of senior citizens brainstormed an idea to create a space that embodies community. ey raised some donations and took out a loan to build the Columbia Senior Activity Center at 1121 Business Loop 70 East.

“Originally it was started by a group that just wanted a place for us to be able to get together socially," says Charlie Roach. "We're not a live-in facility. We don't provide any mobility assistance or anything of that nature.”

Roach, a member of the board, has been involved with the center since 2020.

“It's just a place for people to get out and socialize, play games, to see other seniors or bring their families,” he adds.

e second story of the building is leased to services that complement a senior center, including an insurance company that specializes in Medicare, a group of nurses who run a clinic helping people take care of their feet, and a church.

To help fund the activities and cover the facility bills, the center hosts a garage sale twice a year (the next one is September 22 to 23) and has a craft shop on site. e craft shop features an extensive selection of craft supplies as well as handicrafts made by locals — everything from elaborate quilts to garden gurines.

“People donate crafts and then we sell them to make money,” Roach explains. “Or they'll bring it in and put it on consignment." e center gets 25 percent of the consignment sale proceeds.

ACTIVITIES FOR 55+

e Senior Activity Center features a variety of spaces and activities. ere is a lounge, a board game room, a small library, a billiards room, a cafeteria, and a multipurpose room. While there is no age limit, the center focuses on those who are over 55. (Patrons under 55 are asked to not enter the billiards room.)

ere is no membership needed to enter the facility, however there is a $2 donation

to use the game room. Lunch is o ered Monday through Friday (10:45 a.m. - 12:25 p.m.) for $7 which includes one choice of entree, two sides, a cup of soup, a dessert, and a drink. Veterans receive $1 o lunch, thanks to a grant from Veterans United.

e menu can be found online or in the Senior Activity Center magazine, e Talker e schedule for all the activities can also be found online or in e Talker Activities range from dance classes to special interest lectures hosted by local professors.

Roach says the current o erings in the multipurpose room include ballroom dancing lessons and lessons for line dancing, yoga, and chair yoga for people who are less mobile.

Aside from activities on-site, the center also o ers trips to local theaters and sporting events. e events, planned by volunteers, help give seniors not only a sense of purpose but also build an important sense of community. ere are a variety of monthly events, like Entertainment Night, which is a musical performance in the multipurpose room.

“We're always looking for opportunities to provide other games or activities for seniors to get seniors to come in,” Roach explains.

GETTING INVOLVED

To get involved with the Senior Activity Center, interested seniors just need to show up. A greeter at the front desk will provide a tour, a copy of e Talker, and a coupon for discounted lunch. Roach says the center has become a community cornerstone with a welcoming environment.

“A lot of people come in for di erent reasons — to play pool or whatever,” Roach says. “I think it's a fun place for seniors to get out and get out of the house so that we're not sitting around watching TV all the time.”

Supporting Public Schools is Good Business

BY DR. BRIAN YEARWOOD

In Columbia, the business community cares about our schools and our scholars. In generalities, there are certain myths about business involvement in education.

One is that business involvement in education is motivated by the bottom line. While it is true that an educated workforce leads to pro t and a productive workforce, the real bene ciary is the employee. Further, strong schools mean strong communities and a civil and engaged society.

Our business community has stepped up in many ways to support workforce development e orts to develop highly skilled and highly quali ed future employees.

Local businesses provide work opportunities, internships, co-op work experiences, support school-based enterprises, and help develop career programs that allow students to complete high school with the necessary skills and certi cations to immediately enter the workforce.

MU Health Care has provided a satellite school location for Hickman High School students through a partnership with the school for more than 20 years. ese programs allow students to attend class at the workplace for a portion of the day and work in jobs at the hospital for the other portion of the day.

e Seamless Transition through Enhanced Partnerships or STEP program started in 2010 in Columbia Public Schools. While many young adults with developmental disabilities successfully complete high school and nd work, STEP includes the added bene t of a dedicated internship with support, collaboration, and mentoring to learn all the aspects of being successful in the workplace. e partnership between CPS, Alternative Community Training (ACT), Vocational Rehabilitation, and Boone County Family

Resources (BCFR) is designed to improve employment outcomes for youth with developmental disabilities.

Participants gain valuable, real-work experience, and con dence in their abilities and in themselves. Today, there are nearly 30 Columbia businesses partnered with CPS to support work programs and classes for special education students, and the Columbia Mall has set aside dedicated space to provide students with a work-base location for learning.

And numerous local businesses and entities have partnered with the Columbia Area Career Center to create programs that allow students to be immediately skilled and employable upon completion.

Recently, the school district partnered with the Columbia Police Department to institute a new criminal justice program to help address law enforcement needs in our community. e coursework aligns with the Columbia Police Department’s recruitment plan to engage early with students who express interest in a law enforcement career; to familiarize them with the Columbia policing model of ensuring a safe, caring community; and to prepare them for jobs leading to eventual employment program.

Another myth is that businesses only give money. While donations and nancial support of activities, athletics, scholarships, and special events happen, and are appreciated and contribute to the vitality and enrichment of our school-community, the more coveted assets are time and relationships.

For the last 39 years, the district’s Partners in Education program has provided an avenue for more than 250 local businesses to be actively engaged in our schools. When the program was conceived by former district leaders Russell ompson, Jim Ritter, and Jolene Schultz, it was imperative that it be based on a cooperative handshake and not a handout. ey molded this idea into a program that would bene t Columbia Public Schools, a true “partnership” between local businesses and schools. eir name for the program, Partners in Education, became the national moniker when President Reagan accepted the idea and gave it national status.

e premise of the program is to build bridges between the world of business and the world of education.

rough the commitment of business volunteers to Columbia Public Schools, our

scholars have received invaluable opportunities to develop and practice the knowledge and skills they need to be well-rounded and active citizens both now and as adults. Volunteers enrich our school programs, improve productivity in our buildings, and empower students to do better.

Annually, thousands of volunteers provide assistance to our schools. At last count, volunteers contributed more than 367,000 hours of time to CPS schools and programs. at time is equivalent to $9.3 million. is is an enormous contribution to the educational experiences of our students and says a great deal about our community.

Business owners and employees are parents, too. ey want to live and work in communities with good schools because they know that good schools and good communities go together. As partners, businesses and their employees want schools that make a di erence in their community because supporting high achievement expectations makes a di erence. Columbia Public Schools welcomes the business community to continue to play an active role in strengthening our schools and our community.

Dr. Brian Yearwood is the Superintendent of Columbia Public Schools

For the last 39 years, the district’s Partners in Education program has provided an avenue for more than 250 local businesses to be actively engaged in our schools.

Building Community Impact

How a third-generation homebuilder keeps Columbia growing.

BY JENNIFER TRUESDALE

Sitting down to talk with Shaun and Felicia Tompkins, owners of Tompkins Construction, feels like sitting down for co ee with old friends. e couple exudes a downto-earth, personable mood, so it’s not hard to see why their small business has enjoyed so much success.

It’s hard to pick one aesthetic to describe their style because Tompkins Construction, now in its 37th year, builds custom homes. ere are no pre-designed oor plans to choose from; instead, Tompkins designs homes based on each individual client’s desires.

A COLORADO START

Back in the 1970s, Shaun’s grandfather was a homebuilder in Fruita, Colorado. At the time, the oil industry in that area was booming, which drove demand for housing.

“In the mid-‘80s, there was a big bust in that industry, and the building industry dried up and they actually kind of lost everything and needed to start over,” Shaun Tompkins explains about his grandparents and TC’s beginnings. “And so, they were researching what areas of the country would have a very stable economy by comparison and not be so reliant upon one industry."

His grandfather did some thorough research, and Columbia came up as a place that was unlikely to have that sort of a problem, because of its diverse nature with the university and healthcare industry.

Columbia seemed to be "sort of a unique place they hoped they could be successful in," Shaun explains, adding that the move from Colorado to Columbia took place in 1985.

e following year, Tompkins’s grandfather started Tompkins Construction in Columbia, building spec homes. Getting the business o the ground after losing everything in Colorado wasn’t easy, so Shaun's father, Mike, also moved to Columbia to help. By the 1990s, Mike Tompkins was running the day-to-day business and Tompkins Construction began making a name for itself.

Felicia Tompkins says that Sean's grandfather was especially known for his framework and trim work — cabinets, built-ins, and similar features — using natural oak wood.

A MODERN TOUCH

In the early 2000s, Shaun's grandfather transitioned to being a laborer for TC, which was his preference over running the business. Shaun's parents were running it, with his mother designing the oor plans and his father building them.

He graduated from Hickman High School in 1999, attended Mizzou for one year, then transferred to what was then Southwest Missouri State in Spring eld, where Felicia was attending school. Shaun had his sights set on becoming a highway patrolman until his dad asked him to take over TC.

Photo courtesy of Shelli Jones

Shaun took over in 2004 with his parents still being involved. Felicia had been an elementary school teacher, and after having their son in 2008, wanted to be at home. She began taking over her motherin-law’s duties at TC.

“I've always loved looking at oor plans and just that design element. I had wanted to go to architecture school and that path didn't come to fruition," Felicia explains. "But, you know, I just love that creative side of home design.”

Felicia started learning the computer-assisted design (CAD) and drafting system that the company uses.

"And so I started drawing oor plans and learning with her and my father-inlaw about the design and client relationship — that initial phase of meeting with clients and working with them, to create

a plan that suits their needs, and then getting to a nal point that also meets their budget," Felicia says, adding that she joined TC in 2008.

With Felicia working with the CAD system, Soft Plan, TC is able to o er 3D renderings of its builds, which helps clients visualize how their custom house will look.

“Generally, people nd a lot or land, we have a meeting about ... what do you want to build?" and the design process starts there, Shaun says.

“So they might give us a list of how many bedrooms they want on each level, do they want a wet bar?" Felicia notes. "All the various things that go into a house design, we just kind of create a list and help them nd a starting point with a rough idea of a oor plan, and we then can complete a 3D design.”

e popularity of home-makeover shows on HGTV has in uenced homeowners, who now have come to expect the o ering of 3D renderings. (But don’t get Shaun started on HGTV.)

“It's just like any reality show — they don't give you the full picture of things, but it is good for coming up with creative ideas and getting it,” he says. “Our customers really like it because it gives them all kinds of good ideas that we can gure out for them.”

Something that stands out about Tompkins Construction is its bidding process. Clients are guaranteed no surprises.

“We do a guaranteed bid,” Shaun explains. “Once we bid the house, you know on day one what it's going to cost. It's the same price at the end when you're done.”

Shaun and Felicia say they don’t do much advertising for TC because they don’t need to. Word-of-mouth keeps them busy enough to build several custom houses per year.

“So, in about 2015, my parents were completely not involved in the day-to-day aspect of the business at all, and Felicia and I took it over,” Shaun says. "We kind of have built up a reputation in the community ... just by people coming to us and wanting us to build their home."

Shaun’s father, Mike, transitioned from building into development, opening Tompkins Homes & Development in 2011. Breckenridge Park is one of his developments, which opened an opportunity for Felicia and Shaun to build there, but they have built homes throughout Boone County — around 400 houses in all.

“We have a 15-year-old son who, you know, today, he thinks maybe he might not want to go into home construction, but you know, he's a 15-year-old boy, so that may change,” Felicia says.

Only time will tell, but meanwhile, Shaun and Felicia are staying focused on their community impact. pair explain that they pay their workers well, they treat their clients, employees, and vendors well, and they build beautiful homes that people can love and enjoy for years.

“ at's what's keeping Columbia strong. at's what keeps us and our business moving forward,” Shaun says.

Felicia adds, “We also try to do certain things in the community, just simple things like supporting the senior all-night party for the high schools in town. We're not a big enough company to be donating hundreds of thousands of dollars. But we try to make some contributions to local charities whenever we are able.”

“That's what's keeping Columbia strong. That's what keeps us and our business moving forward.”

— SHAUN TOMPKINS

Your business is your passion. Sure, there are days that aren’t as great as others, but you keep pushing forward. You deserve a bank that backs your passion – one that asks “What’s next?” instead of “What for?” Our bankers are here to do our part to make your dream a reality. Whether you’re just getting started or if you want to take it to the next level, we’re the bank of making it happen. We’re The Bank

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

SHAUN HENRY ATKINS

JAKE BAUMGARTNER BAUMGARTNER’S FURNITURE

PAINTING DIY DISASTERS — AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

By Austin Ilsley Find more at aipaintingplus.com

Whether it’s something you’ve planned for a while, or more of a spur-of-the-moment temptation (hey, look, I have a few free weekend hours after all!), the inspiration to take on a home improvement or painting project can be strong. Even if you’re a seasoned pro or an occasional do-it-yourself weekend warrior, no DIY project is risk-free. No matter the size of the project, take a breath and spend some time planning your work so you’re safe and smart when sprucing up your space. Here are some steps we’ve prepared to help you be as successful as possible and avoid DIY disasters.

• Be prepared. It’s the motto for the Boy Scouts of America, and it’s the best approach to getting started on your DIY project. This means following the oldest old saw out there: Measure twice, cut once. Double-check measurements, make sure the right tools are handy, and your walls are prepped before painting. This also means covering furniture and floors before your hands and fingers are dotting the furniture with wet paint.

• Taking time to get started before jumping right in is the best first step for avoiding mistakes that are costly in both time and money.

• The magic number is 3. When it comes to your ladder, which is one of the most dangerous pieces of DIY equipment, be sure to have at least

AUSTIN ILSLEY CO-OWNER

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

Austin Ilsley started Ai Painting Plus in 2013 after obtaining the skills and expertise from working in the trade since he was 16. When building the business, he knew he wanted to change the industry and how people viewed painters. He created a solid foundation not only with performing the work, but running a company dedicated to professionalism both with himself and his crew.

three points of contact with it at all times: Two hands and at least one foot or at least one hand and two feet.

• Prep your rollers. Achieve a carefree coating with some pre-paint moisture (gently brush your wet hand over the roller) and a quick defuzzing (just roll some tape over the new roller surface).

• Breathe easy. Be sure to have windows open and a good draft wherever possible because paints can give off a steady whiff of irritation to the eyes and throat. Or consider water-based paint, which will be safer for you and better for the environment.

• Avoiding paint runs and lap marks. If proper care is taken to remove dripping paint from a brush, you’ll avoid most paint runs. If a run does happen — say your brush runs over a nail head you’d forgotten about — swipe the brush upwards from the bottom of the run. For avoiding lap marks, paint in sections — never top to bottom — when you paint a large wall. You want to be sure that the top

of the wall will not be dry before you return to it from the bottom. If a lap mark does occur, apply another coat of paint, taking care to maintain a wet edge the second time around.

• Finally, recognize your handy dandy DIY limits. DIY can be fun, satisfying, and a great use of your time. On the other hand, rushing it or cutting corners won’t be — and it will be more expensive.

Just in case your DIY project gets the best of you — or you’re not feeling up to the challenge, after all — give us a call at Ai Painting Plus. Our team takes enormous pride in our work and we’re eager to show you why we’ve earned the reputation as the best painters in Columbia.

SINCE 1925… WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

By Shaun Henry Find more at AtkinsInc.com

Istarted my journey with Atkins in June 2000 after finishing up the spring semester at MU. I called my grandad’s cousin, Vern, to see what they did at Atkins as I knew he had been running the irrigation division for some time. I interviewed with my good buddy, Dave Jobe, and was hired right away to work in the turf and tree department.

It wasn’t necessarily what I had planned to do after college, but I soon realized that I loved the work and the atmosphere that Atkins provided me. Leadership and support from the Atkins Family, the Atkins, Inc. team, and a whole bunch of loyal Atkins customers, made it easy and rewarding for me to come in every day to do the work that needed to be done to exceed our customers’ expectations. That amounts to 23 years of service with Atkins for me, but the company has been around a lot longer than that!

The Atkins family has been in Boone County since mid-1800 where they operated a small farm. T.E. Atkins Sr. mixed minerals and dewormer for livestock on the farm. He then began selling them to other local farmers under the company name Atkins Manufacturing Company. In 1925, T.E. Atkins Jr., or “Country,” as he was known, left the farm to go to high school.

The elder T.E. and wife, Elsie, soon followed and relocated the family to Columbia, changing the name to Atkins Chemical. As Columbia grew and opportunities arose, Atkins grew, too, expanding into cleaning chemicals and janitorial supplies.

In 1951, T.E. Atkins Sr. transferred ownership to his daughter and son-in-law and operated as Atkins-McCauley Chemical. T.E. “Tom” Atkins III joined the family business and ran the sales department. He also worked to develop new business lines, such as janitorial equipment and lawn care supplies. In 1970, Tom bought out the McCauleys (aunt and uncle) and continued

SHAUN HENRY ATKINS

A Columbia native, Shaun Henry found a home at Atkins in 2000 when he started his career as a turf technician. Shaun holds a commercial applicator’s license through the Missouri Department of Agriculture and is a member of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, the Mid-America Green Industry Council, and the Missouri Green Industry Alliance. Shaun strongly believes in the importance of a great customer experience where the Atkins staff knows their clients and anticipates their needs accordingly.

Shaun is an MU alumnus and has a degree in plant science.

growing the business and adding to its list of services and products offered. Pest control, irrigation, building maintenance, janitorial services, and grounds maintenance were all added in the 1970s.

In 1975, Tom purchased the historic Hamilton-Brown Shoe Factory, the first industrial building built in Columbia (190607), where the Atkins company moved to — and still uses today.

In 1985, Scott Atkins (fourth generation of the Atkins family), joined the company. Scott’s passion for real estate development and restoration was a great fit with the building of Atkins Investments. The company ventured into historic preservation and purchased several historically significant buildings in the downtown Columbia area.

After a lot of 12- and 14-hour days for Scott, the restoration of the Strollway Center (1911 Virginia Building) was completed in 2002 and renamed the Atkins City Centre. In 2003 and 2005, the company renovated the Matthews and Miller buildings. In 2007 it finished renovations of the HamiltonBrown Shoe Factory, then in 2013 completed the Parker Building renovations.

Scott says that it is a very satisfying thing to see these buildings and the area all thriving now when they were once struggling.

“Paying it forward” is what it’s all about for the Atkins Family. The examples are abundant: Serving as a Columbia College Board of Trustees member, and a University of Missouri Curator; donations to Columbia College (Linda Atkins is a 1954 graduate of Christian College, which was renamed Columbia College in 1970); the dedication of the Atkins-Hollman Student Commons; development of the T.E. Atkins MU Wellness Program; donation of 81 acres to the city of Columbia and Boone County to be used for recreation facilities (later named by city and county officials Thomas E. “Country” Atkins Jr. Memorial Park); and many others. The list keeps growing.

When Atkins launched in Columbia, there were fewer than 15,000 residents. It has withstood the test of time: Two World Wars, economic ups and downs, growing pains, technology changes, competition from all directions, moving operations and offices, COVID, and countless challenges that exacted a heavy toll on all businesses.

Currently, Atkins employs over 200 in Columbia plus another 200 in other areas of Missouri and Arkansas. We’re always looking for client-and community-minded members to add to our team.

When you have a property need, inside or out, the team at Atkins can help you with that!

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER HOLIDAY FURNITURE SHOPPING … IN JULY.

By Jake Baumgartner

Mid-summer in Missouri is a time for sticky humidity and blazing sun that drives you into the cool air-conditioning, the pool, or the shade with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. There’s probably a lull in everyone’s schedule but, before you know it, the school year will be back in session, vacations will be over, and we’ll start seeing the big box stores putting out Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even Christmas décor.

What? Wait. This is July. Think about the fall (and later) holidays now?

That’s right. You don’t need to go so far as to call it Christmas in July, but think back to last year’s fall and winter gettogethers, or consider how your family has grown – or will grow between now and turkey time or the eves before Christmas and New Year. If you found yourself thinking then that you wished you had more chairs, more comfortable seating (a new sofa, perhaps?), a better dining room layout, more or better bedding for your family and your guests, or a piece of furniture that was also a storage solution (remember that epiphany?), then consider getting a handle on those concerns now.

Most consumer reporting organizations agree that summer is one of the best times to buy furniture, and not just because of price and availability. By the time those holidays and guests come calling, you’ll already be making plans to entertain, and your holiday gift buying will probably already be in gear. Checking off your space and furnishings needs will likely be a backburner item and when you see the same issues pop up – like the need for that piece that’s also a storage solution – you’ll put it on the “to-do next year” list.

JAKE BAUMGARTNER

BAUMGARTNER’S FURNITURE

Jake essentially grew up in the furniture industry, as he is the fourth generation involved in Baumgartner’s Furniture. Working very closely with his father, Alan, Jake has been devoted to the stores full-time since 2004. His greatest enjoyment, however, still comes from working closely with the customers. He is married to Sarah, and they have two active boys, Noah and Laine. Jake received his degree in finance from Saint Louis University.

(573) 256-6288

BAUMGARTNERS.COM

So grab your iced tea or lemonade, head to shade or the pool, and consider this furniture buying checklist now. And your friends at Baumgartner’s Furniture are always ready to help you carefully and affordably turn that checklist into a reality.

• In some cases, it’s not about an additional piece of furniture, but a replacement. If a particular fabric no longer suits your preferences, think about wood or leather.

• What sort of space will your new selection occupy? How will it complement or blend in with what you already have?

• If you have a modern, sleek home, then you may want to get a modern-looking piece. Modern rooms tend to be more open, while traditional rooms are typically smaller with darker or at least less neutral tones. No matter, be sure the new piece fits and doesn’t overwhelm or underwhelm your space.

• Want to liven up that smaller space? A light blue color scheme, for instance, could be just what you need in a new chair, bench, or desk. Need to make the open space more intimate or cozy? Go with darker colors or patterns and fabric that give off a welcoming vibe.

• What do you need that will be functional for you, your family, and your guests? How will your selection be used? Material is an important consideration because something that’s too heavy may be difficult to move around. If so, look for styles that are light and airy.

• If your new furniture is going to be a centerpiece of entertainment, will it be easy to clean?

• Speaking of entertaining: Think about buying something with lots of storage. That way, you can store things for drinks, appetizers, and even kids’ toys.

• When it comes to functionality, now is the time to review future home office needs. Your selections, from seating and tables to bedding and casual use areas can also serve the purpose of creating a just-right, work-from-home space.

Is the middle of July the best time to buy furniture? The best time to buy furniture is when you can take the time to carefully consider your needs against a helpful checklist. Compare the mid-summer pace of life to the more hectic, busy buzz that is just a few weeks away. That sure does make the case for putting furniture shopping on your summer to-do list.

THE BALANCING ACT: PLANNING YOUR DREAM YARD

By Brendan Rost Find more at rostlandscaping.com

The beginning of every major renovation has the same daunting first step: making a call. As a customer, it can be difficult to know who to reach out to and when to start the planning process. While every project is different, there are a few best practices that’ll help the design and build process run smoothly and in a timely manner.

Step One: Assess the scope and scale of the project and form a clear list of wants and needs.

Many people know they want something done but struggle to convey the function or aesthetic desired of the finished product. If this sounds like you, your first call should be to a designer. Knowing a few features your project will require can get your designer on the right track and they can fill in the blanks of product and layout for you.

Step Two: Account for design time and peak seasons.

Everything takes longer during the busy season. For the green industry, spring and fall are peak workload so if you start planning then, expect longer wait times for designs and installations. Every business is different but most established contractors are booking work at least 3-6 months out. Projects requiring a lot of detail are best planned the winter before to ensure adequate time for revisions and material lead times.

For smaller landscape renovations (localized plantings, beds etc.) coordination is relatively simple. A typical design process will take somewhere between 1-2 weeks before getting onto an installation wait-list.

BRENDAN ROST ROST LANDSCAPING

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

Brendan Rost is a Columbia native and son of Rost Landscaping owners Tim and Toby Rost. He grew up playing at the garden center and nursery and has worked in all divisions of Rost Inc. Brendan received his degree in horticulture and design from MU and now works as a designer in the landscaping division. He thrives on building relationships and creating unique landscapes that complement their space.

Projects including multiple elements like walls, patios, fireplaces and water features will take more time to be properly thought out. Allowing 3-4 weeks for initial designs, feedback, and revisions will ultimately yield a better tailored final product.

Finally, large projects that incorporate multiple trades (structures, pools, utility work, etc.) are largely at the mercy of the bottleneck of the busiest company. In mid-Missouri, we’d ideally start the planning pool projects over a year in advance. Pools are a large focal point that impact most surrounding landscape elements so input on placement is vital to have everything work harmoniously.

Step Three: Consider phases.

If your project is something you can’t tackle all at once, that’s okay. Phases can be helpful for a number of reasons: budgets, scheduling conflicts, and flexibility for future projects are all worthy considerations. Your contractor can shed

some light on best order of operations and timing for your phases. Typically, the more invasive, larger scopes of work would take first priority as they will form the backbone of the future design elements. Having a master plan developed will allow you to form a phase plan with your builder that will give you a more cohesive look, increase efficiency, and save you money. At the end of the day, life gets busy sometimes and sometimes projects come up spur of the moment. Whenever you’re considering a project, know that investing adequate time in proper planning will lead to better execution. Even outside of the perfect scenario, these tips can help save you headaches down the road.

TO PURCHASE GOLF BALLS, REGISTER, OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

Clothing Our Community

The Wardrobe provides for families in need.

BY KATHRYN DOTSON | PHOTOS BY MADI GREEN

For over 50 years now, hundreds of volunteers representing churches and other community organizations throughout Boone County have come together, pouring their time and hearts into e Wardrobe to provide families in need with gently used clothing, household items, and new shoes.

Evette Nissen has seen the organization in action since becoming board chairman for e Wardrobe in 2015.

“ ere were several ladies in the community who saw a need [in 1970] — there were families that needed clothes, for themselves and their children,” Nissen says. “ ey saw that need and made a plan to ll it ... and we’ve been continuing to ll that need in about the same way since then.”

e labor of love opened on Ninth Street in 1970 and moved to its current location at the corner of Eighth and Park in downtown Columbia in 1984. e Wardrobe is a local nonpro t corporation operated by a volunteer executive board made up of 18 members from 17 churches throughout Boone County.

eir combined e orts help clothe nearly 8,000 Boone Countians every year.

HELPING HANDS

e Wardrobe has been volunteer-run since its inception, with the rst donations accepted on Dec. 14, 1969. With donations sorted by Hickman High School students, cleaned at zero cost by local companies, and sold by a volunteer sales crew from a local church, e Wardrobe set the standard for how the nonpro t would run. Today it remains a volunteer sales and executive crew.

Some volunteers are giving back to the organization they once depended on themselves. Volunteer Nancy says, “I’ve been coming here for years since my kids were little. Now they are grown — 52 and 49 years old — that’s how long I’ve been coming here.”

Nancy now volunteers her time every Tuesday to help sort and hang clothes. Any individuals interested in volunteering can stop by e Wardrobe during business hours to ll out a volunteer application.

e Wardrobe is fueled not only by the tireless volunteers who donate their time but also by community members who donate items to be resold or donated to families

throughout the community. Nissen says e Wardrobe accepts donations from 9 a.m. to noon every Monday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Accepted items include clothes, shoes, belts, purses, books, rugs, dishes, linens, towels, toys, and similar wares. e Wardrobe does not accept furniture, car safety seats, or electronics.

ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE

e cost for shoppers to purchase donated items ranges from a quarter to $2. While e Wardrobe is open to the public for discounted shopping on a typical day, Tuesdays are reserved for referral shopping. On referral days, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., approved families can come in and shop for clothing for their families for free. ey receive a bag — its size depends on the size of the family — and they can come in once a month for a year and ll the bag with whatever they need. Nissen says the referral needs to be renewed yearly.

e shopping bags can be lled with undergarments, linens, towels, household items, toys, coats, or clothes. Referrals can come from guidance counselors at most public schools within Boone County, the Voluntary Action Center, Turning Point, or most local churches. e families are also eligible for one free package of diapers, per child, through First Chance for

The Wardrobe

MISSION

Children’s Diaper Bank. e diaper bank is at e Wardrobe every fourth Tuesday of the month.

In addition to Tuesday shopping, families given referrals are eligible for e Wardrobe’s shoe voucher program.

“If the family has school-age children, within the public school system, then every 6 months they can buy a shoe coupon for $5 and take that coupon to Shoe Carnival on Stadium and trade that coupon for a pair of shoes up to $40,” Nissen explains.

e rst month e Wardrobe opened in 1970, it served 32 families, tting 150 people for new out ts. Today that number pales in comparison to the over 8,000 people being served.

Connie Armentrout, the shoe coupon coordinator, says e Wardrobe distributed 2,073 shoe coupons in 2022, serving more than 850 families, adding, “We are on target to exceed that number in 2023.”

e Wardrobe board and volunteer sta are con dent they are prepared to meet that need, just as they have done now for more than ve decades.

Working to assist lowincome families with gently used clothing and new shoes for school children

FOUNDED

1970

BOARD MEMBERS

• Evette Nissen, board chair

• Sherry Dye, vice chair

• Jacky Gingrich, treasurer

• Candy Adams, secretary

• Fran Day

• Charlene Boyes

• Jean Pearson

• Jane Hunter

• Sarah Storm

• Linda Hutton

• Virginia Itschner

• Toni Milstead

• Luella Adams

• Linda Reed-Brown

• Letitia DenHartzog

THE WARDROBE

715 Park Ave. 573-442-3260

thewardrobecomo.squarespace.com

thewardrobecomo@gmail.com

• Linda Moritz

• Maggie Kirby

• Georgia Morehouse

• Betty Heisler

THE OLD CAFÉ

BY AMANDA LONG

Based on the restaurant industry knowledge they gleaned from their time in the kitchens at Columbia favorites Cooper’s Landing and e Stationhouse at Kat sh Katy’s, Vanessa Leitza and her son, Jake Leitza, opened e Old Neighborhood Café in July 2022.

“We had been talking and dreaming about opening our own restaurant for a long time,” says Vanessa. eir one-year-old café is located at 2011 Corona Road, Suite 101, o Scott Boulevard in the Cherry Hill business district.

Even though they are northern Chicago natives, during their 10-plus years in Columbia the Leitzas have put down deep Columbia roots, building a community and atmosphere that have made the Leitzas a name synonymous with camaraderie and scrumptious food.

“We are known for being a close-knit family with vibrant personalities and very good food,” says Vanessa’s daughter, Autumn, who oversees public relations and marketing for the restaurant. “We work hard and play harder. We grow together, we laugh together, we ght together, and we share milestones together. rough it all, you can always nd us in a kitchen somewhere, cooking together.”

A continuing tradition of great family and food.

Autumn says that the family credits their late, Italian great-grandmother for their passion for cooking and family, and the knowledge that the two go hand-in-hand.

“Food is magic," Autumn adds. "Our Great-Grandmother eresa believed it was the way to your heart. She really instilled in us a love for cooking and the importance of the kitchen to a family. Growing up, it was the place to be – the food was cooking, the drinks were owing, and everyone was laughing and having a good time.”

Great-Grandma eresa wrote a cookbook that is displayed in e Old Neighborhood Café.

"It is lled with her old-school Italian recipes that we take inspiration from when creating our menus," Autumn says, adding that inspiration for the restaurant also comes from Vanessa’s dreams, as well as a variety of cooking shows and famous chefs on the Food Network, including Jake Leitza's idol, Gordon Ramsey.

“My mom watches the Food Network all the time, memorizing all the tips and tricks she learns there like how thin to cut a cucumber or the best way to pickle onions,” Amanda says.

e Old Neighborhood Café’s madefrom-scratch menu features a variety of cleverly named sandwiches and burgers, as well as fresh salads including Grandmother eresa’s tortellini salad. Jake’s secret recipe mac and cheese has become a local favorite. Other selections include:

• THE AUNT LORETTA is a Chicagothemed sandwich featuring thickcut smoked bacon, sauteed peppers and onions, pepper jack cheese, tomatoes, and mayonnaise on French bread.

• THE BODEGA for the New Yorkers is piled high with pastrami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard served on toasted rye bread.

• THE MIAMI VICE is based on the classic Cuban sandwich loaded with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, chipotle-mayo, yellow mustard, and pickles.

• Autumn says the one-of-a-kind GOLDEN STATE GOBBLER is one of the most popular menu items — roasted turkey, mashed avocado, thick-cut smoked bacon, spinach, tomatoes, and red onions served on a choice of artisan or French bread.

• BIG TEX is a house-seasoned burger topped with barbecue sauce, bacon, pepper jack cheese, and fried onion strings.

e café features rotating daily specials such as the chicken gyro with seasoned grilled chicken, tomatoes, pickled red onions, cucumbers, and housemade tzatziki sauce, and handcrafted soups including lobster bisque and beef vegetable, which are posted at the restaurant and on social media.

Fridays only the Leitzas serve their famous fried cat sh, the same delicious dish they were known for at Kat sh Katy’s — so popular it often sells out. A sh and shrimp special is available as well as a family meal for four including four llets, 10 fried shrimp, four corn on the cob, fries, and coleslaw.

“We focus on making local, fresh ingredients the star, and the e ort shows in the high quality and taste of the dishes we serve, even if we are spending a few extra dollars on ingredients,” says Jake. For instance? e cafe serves authentic cat sh instead of less-expensive white sh, "which is totally worth it," he adds. "Our customers can tell and let us know they appreciate it.”

Vanessa and Jake partner with local farmers to use as

"Food is magic. Our Great Grandmother Theresa believed it was the way to your heart. She really instilled in us a love for cooking and the importance of the kitchen to a family. Growing up, it was the place to be – the food was cooking, the drinks were flowing, and everyone was laughing and having a good time."

many fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats as possible.

e Old Neighborhood Café provides catering services including box lunches, lunch bu ets, and specialty bars like pasta or Mexican. e café also recently expanded its o erings to include customized charcuterie boards and grazing tables for special events, courtesy of Autumn.

“It all started when my best friend, Sam, and I made a charcuterie board for Mom for Mother’s Day last year," Autumn recalls. "We posted a pic of the board we created on social media and immediately got an inquiry for a Halloween board, which we then created. It has just taken o from there.”

Soon after, Autumn says Como Picnics, a local specialty picnic provider, invited the cafe to collaborate to provide charcuterie boards and meals when requested

for luxury picnics. She says the partnership has been a lot of fun.

e café’s charcuterie boards and grazing tables are completely customizable and can be ordered for weddings, graduations, and parties, and can be savory or sweet.

"With everyday lunch options, family meals, and catering," Jake says, "there’s de nitely something for everybody in the neighborhood.”

e Old Neighborhood Café is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Orders can be made online for delivery or pick-up.

In the Eyelash of the Beholder

BY JULES N. GRAEBNER | PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

From eyelash extensions to facials, Alana Harper Esthetics o ers its clients treatments that can boost their con dence and reduce the time they spend getting ready each morning.

ough it provides many of the same services as a traditional spa, Alana Harper Esthetics takes a di erent approach.

“We usually use the word ‘salon,’ which can confuse people because we don’t do hair services,” says the salon’s eponymous founder, Alana Harper. “But we’re much more of a salon atmosphere than a spa — it’s not dark and soothing and [ lled with] candles. It’s de nitely more of an upbeat atmosphere.”

It’s one of the reasons why Alana Harper Esthetics is popular with its customers.

“People are really busy these days,” Harper continues. “[At a traditional spa] you’re paying for the spa experience. I think people who are just looking for results — not the whole spa experience — they appreciate being able to get in and out.”

BROWS, LASHES, AND BEYOND

is expediency is no small feat, as many of the salon’s services can be time-consuming. Eyelash extensions can take an experienced esthetician anywhere from 40 minutes to three hours to apply. It requires nearly surgical precision, as the esthetician must adhere individual synthetic eyelashes to the natural eyelash, one by one, ensuring that they don’t cause irritation or interfere with the natural growth cycle.

Despite being such a delicate process, eyelash extensions are one of the most popular services o ered at Harper's salon.

“I think one thing that sets us apart from some lash stylists is that we’re willing to tell people ‘no,’” Harper says, explaining that every service must be tailored to the individual. She mentions the “Russian volume” style of lash extensions, which gives the wearer an exaggerated, butter y-esque appearance. at style isn’t attainable for every client, and the salon’s owner, as well as her team of employees, prioritize the health of their patrons. Lash stylists aim to o er the desired look — dramatic or natural — without any negative e ects.

Harper explains, “We’re not comfortable stressing their natural lash past a certain

Just past the hustle and bustle of the North Village Arts District, one business is dedicated to helping clients appreciate their own beauty.

point. It may mean [Alana Harper Esthetics] may not be the perfect t for everyone, but people who are looking for something they can maintain long term — without damage — we’re a good place for that.”

Alana Harper Esthetics o ers a bevy of other services, including wax hair removal, dermaplaning, facials, eyebrow lamination, and tinting, as well as lash lifts and tints. Whether a customer is looking to make their morning routine more low maintenance, have a bit of TLC for their skin, or want to show o their personality with a new look, there are plenty of options.

Nowadays, the salon is sta ed by a number of skilled estheticians, each with their own specialties. One of them is Miranda Fuhr, an esthetician and lash artist.

“Honestly, working [at Alana Harper Esthetics] has been one of the best opportunities I have ever had,” Fuhr explains. “ e environment Alana has created has such a welcoming and inviting energy in the space — not only for clients but employees as well.”

BECOMING A MULTIHYPHENATE BEAUTY GURU

Harper appeared headed down this path since early childhood.

“I was interested in [the esthetics industry] my whole life, even though my mom wasn’t into that kind of thing at all. My parents have pictures of me putting on makeup when I was, like, three years old,” Harper says, laughing at the memory of clumsy toddler cheeks smeared with lipstick.

Harper’s makeup prowess grew with age — she recalls being the go-to “makeup girl” in her friend group, helping them gussy up before a girl’s night out — but it wasn’t until her early twenties that she became serious about a career in the beauty industry.

ough Missouri doesn’t require formal licensure for makeup alone, Harper wanted “a little more credibility” to her name and enrolled in esthetics school. ere, she discovered a love for more than just makeup, studying the treatments her salon would later become known for.

After her education, Harper continued to hone her craft while working at a salon and spa. She entered into an intense apprenticeship, ultimately earning her nail technology license, which requires more than 400 hours of training. When the salon closed, Harper found a job at a medical spa but realized she wasn’t living up to her potential.

“I felt like I wasn’t being able to use my talents,” Harper says, explaining that she mainly assisted doctors with procedures instead of exhibiting her skills as a multi-hyphenate esthetician with numerous licenses. “I really missed the beauty side of the industry; things where you saw more instant results.”

To make matters worse, Harper’s nances were in dire straits.

“I was recently married, I had a new baby at home, [and] I was really broke. I had a really hard time keeping my head above water,” she remembers. “I had a little bit of money from cash gifts, and I just got this crazy idea that I could [start] a business.”

In the summer of 2013, Harper teamed up with a friend who was a massage therapist, and the pair took over a small, threeroom space in the now-defunct Stephens building downtown.

“My treatment room was very bare bones,” she says, describing how she enlisted her father to paint a dresser she had bought at Goodwill in hopes of sprucing up the space. “I had to completely start over with clientele, so I would get so excited when I got a noti cation that someone had booked an eyebrow wax or lash extension.”

Since then, Alana Harper Esthetics has grown exponentially, as the business will soon celebrate its 10th anniversary.

“I am so impressed by Alana,” Fuhr adds. “She maintains an amazing business, [she] travels, all while being a great mom. I have no idea how she balances it all, but she does, and has such a passion for all of it.”

Harper still seems surprised that her business grew into a team.

“Honestly, I never had any intention of having anyone join me,” she says. “I thought it was going to be just me. If I had known that it was going to grow I would have been a little more… incognito with my choice of business name.”

She loves her team and the direction the business has taken, now settled into its current home on College Avenue.

“[Everyone] brings a good energy to the place,” she says. “I think that's a part of the guest experience as well, and a huge part for everyone on the team — just feeling good and happy at work.”

ALANA HARPER ESTHETICS AlanaHarperEsthetics.com

Instagram: @alanaharperesthetics

“I had a little bit of money from cash gifts, and I just got this crazy idea that I could [start] a business.”

To sign up for a team or to become a sponsor, scan the QR Code.

Contact with any questions:

COOKIN' WITH HOSS

FRESH GREEN BEAN & POTATO SALAD

Yields 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds green beans, trimmed

• 3 shallots, minced

• 2 tablespoons balsamic, red wine, or sherry vinegar

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ⅔ cup chopped fresh basil leaves, atleaf parsley, or other leafy herbs

• ⅔ cup grated parmesan reggiano or grana padano

• ¼ cup diced red onion

• 1/8 cup crispy bacon or pancetta

• 1 lb. cooked al dente red skin potatoes, sliced

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• Freshly ground pepper and Hoss’s Steak Seasoning, to taste

Hoss knows best! The Columbia Farmers Market is a great place to source the freshest local produce. Be sure to keep an eye out for our story highlighting market vendors in our Agriculture issue next month.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cook beans in a large pot of rapidly boiling salted water until just crisp-tender.

2. Rinse with cold water. Drain. Transfer to bowl.

3. Combine shallots, vinegar, and onion. Gradually mix in oil, add basil, season with Hoss's Steak Seasoning and pepper.

4. Toss the rest of the ingredients, coat with the vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Chill until ready to serve with your favorite dish.

Locally grown and personally curated.

BY TAYLOR AMBRA

tephanie Wightman has been a ower gardener for over 20 years and in 2022 she was able to turn her passion into reality: Blooms and Wishes Flowers, a oral business with a mobile stem bar.

Wightman's "aha" moment came from a vacation that she and her friends took over six years ago where she saw a ower truck and began dreaming of bringing one to Columbia. Wightman and her husband, Matt, researched the business model for a few years while working full-time as teachers in the Columbia Public School District.

SALLIE THE TRUCK

After searching high and low for the right truck for the business, the Wightmans found three trucks — scattered across the country — that checked all the boxes on their list of needs. One of the options was a 1963 teal-hued VW truck located in Bu alo, N.Y., and they didn't take long to determine it was the perfect match.

Once the truck was shipped to Missouri, the business started coming to life. e truck soon became a member of the family and was named Sallie, in honor of Wightman’s grandma.

"My grandma had qualities that I want in my business, such as tenacity, grit, and strength," Wightman explains. "I think about the strength that she had in her life, and I wish to have that kind of strength as I am starting my business.”

Sallie’s prominent teal color and its black and white striped awning, along with the vibrant orals she houses, make for a striking addition to any event.

LOCALLY GROWN

A large variety of fresh owers on the truck every week is the goal for Blooms and Wishes. Some of the owers are homegrown on Stephanie’s 70-acre family farm in Columbia. To keep up with the demand,

Blooms and Wishes also gets orals from other local farms. Popular owers such as roses and carnations often must be sourced nationally to nd the best versions to ensure quality for each customer.

at's one of the unique features for Blooms and Wishes.

"People can design their own bouquets and pick the speci c stems they like, unlike at the grocery store where you may get a bouquet of owers with a couple of stems that you don’t necessarily like,” Wightman says.

PERSONALIZED TOUCHES AND ARRANGEMENTS

Blooms and Wishes o ers a variety of avenues to purchase stunning ower arrangements. Its truck can be found around Columbia at various pop-up locations throughout the week. e pop-up schedule varies each week and is posted on the Blooms and Wishes social media platforms, making it easy for people in the community to nd the truck when they need owers.

While the schedule varies each week, Sallie the truck can always be found at the City of Refuge on ursdays, the North Vil-

lage Arts District First Fridays, and Callaway Bank on Chapel Hill and Forum.

At the truck, customers can create their own bouquets by picking out the stems they like the best or asking for help from one of the owners on site. Personalized bouquets range in price depending on what stems are used.

e business o ers subscription options in the spring, summer, and fall or a full-season, year-round subscription. e subscription-based arrangements often include popular orals and colors for the time of year. Customers have the option of receiving their arrangements hand-tied or in a glass vase, and all subscriptions are delivered to their front door on a weekly or biweekly basis during the selected season.

Blooms and Wishes also brings oral arrangements directly to its customers by o ering private arranging parties.

Wightman says that in addition to purchasing bouquets at the stem bar and arranging parties, her business also o ers regular oral services such as centerpiece arrangements, hand-tied bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres, which can be delivered within the city limits.

Whether for a corporate event, school gathering, girls' night out, or simply an excuse to bring friends together, adding Blooms and Wishes Flowers to a party is sure to make a memorable impression.

THE FUTURE OF BLOOMS AND WISHES

Sallie the truck has created a strong foundation for the Blooms and Wishes business, but the Wightmans still have extensive plans for growth. ey hope to expand at some point, with more trucks and even a brick-and-mortar store.

Stephanie Wightman says she loves the way people light up when they see their arrangements — whether for weddings, birthday parties, dance recitals, and other special occasions — and she's eager to see expansion plans for the family-owned oral business come to fruition.

BLOOMS AND WISHES FLOWERS

573-825-0131

bloomsandwishesflowers.com

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Standing the Tests of Time

Columbia’s business landscape features vibrant old-timers.

BY JODIE JACKSON JR PHOTOS BY LANA EKLUND

There’s a myth in the business world that multigeneration businesses are doomed to fail — that barely one third of family-owned businesses last through the third generation. at conclusion, based on a study in the 1980s, has been quoted and rehashed by sources as reputable as the U.S. Department of Commerce.

A Brazilian proverb (yes, the myth seems globally pervasive), goes something like this: Rich father, noble son, poor grandson.

Recent studies, including an analysis by the Harvard Business Review, revealed a refreshing new conclusion: Family-owned, multigenerational businesses actually have a leg up on single-entity or corporate-owned businesses primarily because a family-connected business is in a better position to react and respond to market forces, has better relationships with customers and employees, and has more of a vested interested in success.

Columbia is home to several multigenerational businesses. Four of those companies are highlighted here: Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms (with direct roots back to St.

Louis in 1849), Witt Print Shop, Columbia Welding and Machine, and one of downtown’s most iconic stores and signs — Dryer’s Shoes.

Witt Print Shop is one example of a multigenerational business that was sold by one generation of owners to another business with multiple family roots, while embodying the best ideals of small business and family success.

“Having a small, family-owned business has been a blessing in so many ways,” says Brian Kirmse, owner of Witt Print Shop. “It not only has allowed me to stay involved with my kid’s extracurricular activities due to exibility of work hours, it has allowed me an avenue to teach and raise my children to understand the importance of hard work and relationships as well as money management, deadlines, scheduling, responsibilities and other lessons in life.”

Topping it o , Kirmse explains, “I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to purchase a well-respected generational business that had a long-standing good name like Witt.”

Left to right: Derek Schlueter, Brian Kirmse, Caroline Scott, and Kyle Sheppard.

How many years has Witt Print Shop been in business?

omas Witt started the business in downtown Columbia in 1926. My uncle, Harold Nichols, purchased it in 1963 from Mr. Witt, an addition was built to the Missouri Press building, and the Witt Print Shop moved to that location on Eighth Street.

My cousin Ray Ash and I purchased the business from Uncle Harold in 2000 and when my cousin retired, I became sole owner in 2016 and moved the shop to its current location at 1901 Vandiver Drive in 2017.

How many different generations have owned Witt Print Shop? Technically, three generations have owned Witt Print Shop, as omas Witt was not a family member.

What is your main product or service? We’re a commercial print shop that handles anything from envelopes, letterhead, business cards, postcards, brochures, mailings, booklets and magazines, to specialty products, laser engraving, and all sorts of signage.

Tell us something that you think everyone knows about Witt Print Shop. at we’re a small, local, momand-pop print shop that has great customer service and turns professional products quickly.

What everyone might not know. at we’re the oldest print shop in Columbia and do work for businesses across the country in about 30 di erent states.

How many employees do you have? ere are only four of us full-time: Myself (owner since 2000), my “right arm” and general manager, Caroline Scott, and production specialists Derek and Kyle. My wife and two sons, and sometimes friends, will come in to help us out with big jobs that require a bit more help. at’s what a family business requires sometimes.

Keys to success and longevity. Customer service has been the biggest key for Witt Print Shop over the years.

My desk is at the front door and I, the owner, greet people as they walk in the door. I also answer the phone and deliver products from time to time.

What sets Witt Print Shop apart from your competitors?

Every print shop nowadays produces great products. at’s no secret or advantage. What sets us apart is consistent great service and quick turnarounds.

What were your COVID pivots?

During the pandemic, I was a bit de ant in that I considered Witt Print Shop as an essential business even when the government said otherwise. We stayed open and took care of our clients while other print shops shut down. Since the work was slow, we operated with two employees for months on end as we alternated time o .

Tell us about some other challenges over the years.

During the end of 2008 through 2016, the push for “going green” literally created a decline in printing like I’d never seen before. Even though the paper mills plant more trees than they harvest, and recycling was

implemented years prior, the media and politicians put multiple local print shops out of business during that time or caused us to think outside of the box to keep our doors open. at’s when we branched out to other services and print options.

Describe your community involvement. We give back to organizations that are customers by being a print sponsor, donating jobs, and/or discounting their printed materials. We work with over 50 di erent nonpro ts — churches and organizations that really do good things in our community.

What is the long-term vision for Witt Print Shop?

God has been good to me and in turn I just want to do my best for my employees and clients while doing a job that I love and am passionate about.

1901 VANDIVER DRIVE, STE B 573-443-7227

WITTPRINTSHOP.COM

Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms

Left to right: Chloe Schmidt, internet sales and daughter of Fred; Fred Schmidt, owner and generational owner; Jeremy Miller, operations manager; Mikayla Miller, sales associate and daughter of Jeremy.

How many years has Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms been in business?

Schmidt Billiards & Game Rooms (SBGR) has been in business since 1983 in Columbia. e founding company, A.E. Schmidt Billiards in St. Louis — which is run by my cousins — has been in operation since 1850. I am a fth-generation member and my daughter, Chloe, is sixth generation of the Schmidt ownership line. She is working with me now as the second generation at Schmidt Billiards & Game Rooms.

What is your main product or service?

We sell new and refurbished, previously owned pool tables and install them. We also sell billiard lamps and game room decor, foosball tables, and shu eboards, darts and dart boards, poker tables and supplies, pool table lighting, and amusing bar signs.

Tell us something that you think everyone knows about Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms. Everyone knows that we provide excellent service on pool table installations and repairs, and we stand behind our work.

What everyone might not know. Not everyone knows we can provide all the accessories for your game room, including bar furniture, decor, darts, casino supplies and lighting.

Who is the current owner and leadership team?

Fred Schmidt, president and owner; Jeremy Miller, operations manager; and Linda Cheatham, o ce manager and accountant. We have seven fulltime and three part-time employees.

What are some of the keys to the success and longevity of Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms?

Billiards ebbs and ows. When the country is in recession, people tend to buy necessities over entertainment. However, during the pandemic, many customers were looking for home entertainment options and we were quite busy supplying them.

Keys to success and longevity. Providing expert service and quality items. e Schmidt name is well-known worldwide for creating some of the nest furniture-style pool tables with exceptional performance.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Our longevity in the business, exceptional quality of our products, unparalleled workmanship from start to nish, and our ability to service the hundreds of models of tables that exist in the marketplace.

What were your COVID pivots? We were concerned when the COVID shutdown occurred but were pleasantly surprised when the demand for our products skyrocketed. People were investing in their home environment and our game room selection gured prominently in many peoples' plans.

Tell us about some other challenges over the years. Occasionally, new games come along that supplant pool, like arcade games in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, X-Box PS 2,3 and 4, and now virtual reality. But there is no substitute for the feeling of performing a perfect billiard shot in the company of friends.

Who have been some of the key players in the success of Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms?

My dad, Harold Schmidt, was a wonderful mentor, having also grown up in the billiard business from the 1930s up through the early 2000s. I trained with his mechanics, working on a variety of billiard tables. I also get good advice from my cousin, Kurt Schmidt, who heads the A.E. Schmidt factory in St. Louis and my brother Bob Schmidt, who runs a billiard dealership in North Little Rock, Ark. (Jones Brothers Distributing Co.).

Describe your community involvement.

SBGR has always supported Columbia schools with contributions to

fundraising events and has been involved with many charitable organizations over the years.

What is the long-term vision for Schmidt Billiards and Game Rooms? We are in the process of erecting a new building to house our greatly expanded showroom, o ce, and warehouse. We will also have a building to display restored antique pool tables and a museum to display all the antique pool memorabilia that I've collected over the years.

Fun facts.

Our best contract was with the Dave & Buster franchise. e founders of D&B were acquaintances of ours in Little Rock. Dad designed the pool tables used by D&B based on an older model with a modern twist. Brother Bob sold the tables to each franchise location; cousin Kurt made the tables in St. Louis; and I typically did the table installations all over the U.S. and two locations in England: Bath and Birmingham.

We were fortunate to get the contract to restore the 1882 pool table that resides in the Missouri Governor's Mansion in Je erson City. My expert wood re nisher, Tom Gatzmeyer of Columbia, performed a minor miracle, meticulously restoring every inlay and chip in the table frame and legs.

Dryer’s Shoes

Dryer’s Shoes store owner Justin Riley and Rebecca Rudd, his mother and former store manager.

How long has Dryer's Shoe Store been in business and how many generations are represented?

Dryer’s Shoe Store has been in business and in the same location — 7 N. Ninth St. — since 1956. Dryer’s Shoes has had two owners and three generations involved in running the business.

What is your main product or service?

High quality footwear that provides comfort and function while still providing a modern style.

Tell us something that you think everyone knows about Dryer’s. Dryer’s sells great quality products and still gives customers a full-service experience.

What everyone might not know. e founder opened the store at the age of 20 after working at a Dryer’s Shoe Store in Lebanon, Mo., during his high school years. And the sta goes through a thorough training process that may take a few months to learn.

How many employees do you have? Five — but range from ve to eight on average.

Keys to success and longevity. Continuing to grow and change based on customer needs and wants, and being able to separate what we o er from other businesses in the eld. is is why we have always put a very high emphasis on giving a handson full-service approach to shopping. e amount of people that are wearing the wrong shoe size alone would shock you. at’s where we come in.

What sets Dryer’s apart from the competition?

It’s simple. We sell brands that want their customers properly tted in-person, so these brands are not found in every store. Employees are trained to know about the brands, foot ailments, and proper foot sizing, an important skill that is often overlooked and not o ered in many places.

What were your COVID pivots?

We were ordered to shut down for six weeks, which was very hard on our sta and customers who still needed their work footwear as essential workers. We reopened by appointmentonly for the rst several weeks and nally fully opened after that. We had to alter our store hours after reopening as the customer ow had changed and continues to do so today. I guess some things are just the ‘new normal.’

Tell us about some other challenges over the years. Making sure we continue to grow with the demands of customers. Sometimes this means bringing new brands in and letting some go.

Not everyone is excited about change, but new trends and footwear technology o er better products for our customers. at’s something that we constantly are evaluating and adjusting to best serve the business.

Who have been some of the key players in the success of Dryer's?

Our late founder, R. Newton Riley. e DNA of who we are and what we do here was instilled by him and continues to stand true all these years later.

Describe your community involvement. It’s important to Dryer’s, since this is who has supported us since 1956. We donate to many di erent educational organizations as well as taking part in employee health and wellness fairs to further educate the community. We are animal lovers at Dryer’s Shoe Store and have an annual blanket drive for the Central Missouri Humane Society just before the cold weather sets in each year.

What is the long-term vision for Dryer’s?

Continuing to provide the midMissouri area with a true, full-service store – something that is becoming harder and harder to nd as more stores like ours are closing every year across the country.

Our strong community and customer support gives us the ability and motivation to keep an iconic business like Dryer’s Shoe Store around for generations to come.

Columbia Welding and Machine Co.

From left: Jesse "Jay" Curry Jr., Steve Curry Sr., Randy Ham, and Jesse Curry Sr.

How long have you been in business?

Columbia Welding and Machine has been open for 100 years. Four generations of the Curry family have worked at or owned our business. e business was started in 1923 by two generations of the Higday family until the late ‘70s.

We’ve been at 1333 Business Loop 70 East since the early ‘50s, and on Seventh Street across from the old re station from 1923 to the ‘50s.

Tell us something that you think everyone knows about Columbia Welding and Machine Co. Prompt service and knowledgeable sta .

What everyone might not know. We are a retail business. Our shop is for steel cutting; we do not have a welding or machine shop. But we can refer people to actual welders and machinists.

How many employees do you have?

e ownership team: Steve Curry Sr., Jesse (Jay) Curry Jr., and Randy Ham.

Keys to success and longevity. Knowing our customers and their needs and an “always glad to see you” attitude. And knowing how to keep the box stores and nationwide companies from taking too much of the market.

What sets Columbia Welding and Machine apart from competitors?

ere is no one-stop shop like ours. Our competitors have some facets of our business but not the wide range of in-stock items and quick access to non-stock items.

What were your COVID impacts and pivots?

We were deemed essential during COVID. We have medical gases and construction supplies. We would take phone orders and leave them outside our door for pickup. Pre-covid, two employees took other jobs so that's when we became three and we have been that way for a while.

Tell us about some other challenges over the years. rough the years we have prospered through hard times and disasters, depression, and recessions, oods and storms. People need our goods to work and repair things. Our diversity in goods keeps customers coming in.

Who are the key players in the success of your business?

Andrew Higday, founder; Paul Higday, owner; Amonette Curry, shop foreman; Jesse Curry Sr., my great uncle; and uncles, cousins, wives, and some of our children have worked at CWM.

Describe your community involvement.

e Paul Higday music trust, and we donate to charities of our choice yearly.

What is the future of Columbia Welding and Machine?

e future is good for CWM. If family can't continue the business, hopefully someone can purchase it and keep a good thing going.

Fun fact.

We have a second business out of the same place: Spicewine Ironworks barbecue sauce and rubs. We are former world champions on the pro barbecue circuit and a couple of our sauces have won world championships with the American Royal. COLUMBIA

1333 BUSINESS LOOP 70 E 573-449-5426

The Arcade District creates space for innovation.

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN | PHOTOS BY CHRIS PADGETT

Aself-proclaimed “tech startup guy,” Bobby Campbell has deep experience in founding companies. He’s been through business incubators. He’s taken ideas and run with them, creating something from nothing. As the founder and owner of Columbia’s Arcade District, he’s doing it again, this time in a format that opens the doors to other aspiring entrepreneurs and their big ideas.

“ e Arcade District is an innovation district,” Campbell says. “I wanted to create a place where startups could incubate, collaborate, and grow, where people chase their dream, and where the next generation of Columbia innovators come.”

Across the country, other communities have embraced the idea of an innovation district, and they are growing in popularity, Campbell says. Cities like Boulder and St. Louis have successfully created an environment where entertainment venues, and growing companies, exist side by side. Replicating that excitement — support for startups and a place for innovation — was a driving force behind the Arcade District.

“If I’m graduating from MU and I’m an engineer or a scientist, and I’m ready to go out in the world and start a company, there is no reason that Columbia can’t be like the Boulders of the world, no reason we can’t be recognized in the same breath as the other great startup centers in the U.S.,” he says.

With an innovation space like the Arcade District, Campbell says it is his hope that new graduates representing fresh ideas will choose to remain in Columbia to nurture their ideas and their talents, and to nd success as innovators and entrepreneurs.

“ e goal is to get the best talent to stay, to found their company here, to see Columbia as a viable space where they can start a company, nd nancing, and nd success here in the Arcade District,” he says. “As a founder, this is my contribution to give people a real place where they can share ideas and innovate, to help them get on their feet and grow their new tech startups.”

INSIDE THE ARCADE DISTRICT

A variety of restaurants, shops, and businesses are located inside the Arcade District, which runs along Fay Street between College Avenue and Columbia College. Today, there are 16 companies in the district, and that number is growing steadily.

“We probably have 12 to 14 buildings in the district, including single and multistory buildings and commercial, o ce, industrial and manufacturing space,” Campbell says. “ e Arcade District continues to grow as we add more companies and restaurants and entertainment options and as there is space for more tech and industrial startups.”

Division-D, a digital media buying agency that Campbell founded in 2003 — with o ces across the United States — is headquartered in the district. Six-Mile Ordinary, a distilled spirits producer, was one of the rst companies to move into the district. Campbell says there are more than a dozen startups incubating inside the walls of Scale VC, which moved into the district in June. Witches & Wizards Arcade gives guests an oldschool arcade experience. It also has a micro theater inside.

Irene’s, Beet Box, B Side Records, Bluescentric, and Appreciate are just a handful of the other businesses creating the vibe of the Arcade District.

“We want to create an environment that is cool, with a great vibe for people enjoying food, entertainment and a place for people to come collaborate,” Campbell says.

A PLACE TO WORK AND PLAY

In addition to creating spaces where people can innovate and create, Campbell’s goal is also to create a place that is lled with opportunities to socialize, collaborate, and explore. Bringing people together to socialize and collaborate is one of the Arcade District’s key focuses, and the district hosts a full schedule of events throughout the year.

Music venue Sentinel Park hosts bands every weekend, including big names like

e Hoot-N-Holler Band. Sentinel Park also plays host to many charity events throughout the year, Campbell says. e district’s events calendar also includes festivals and tournaments, including CoolFest, an art festival, fantasy lm nights, circuses, gaming, and other special events. ere is always something to see or experience, and that’s by design. Campbell says the district is meant to be a place for people to connect, to nd inspiration, and even to nd mentorship.

“We have a lot of di erent events going on all the time,” Campbell says. “ e Arcade District is not just an o ce building or a bar. Creating a place where people want to work and play is important. It’s a place where people want to

have an o ce and work in an environment where there are other people innovating and chasing their dreams. en I can go to a concert or get a drink and see things that inspire me in my own venture.”

GROWING THE DISTRICT

Just as the Arcade District is helping ideas grow, Campbell’s goal is for the district itself to continue to grow. ough he isn’t ready to share speci c details, plans are in the works for continued development in the area.

“ ere is a large lot at the corner of Wilkes Street where we are going to build a really cool building with some cool stu inside,” Campbell says. “We continue to expand the district, to renovate older buildings that can be used for restaurants, and o ce and industrial manufacturing space for new companies.”

While the district was created with the purpose of inspiring new ideas and fostering innovation, Campbell says he's eager for the community to check out the Arcade District's "great vibe," whether someone is founding a company or wanting to enjoy food and entertainment.

"If you want to start a company or collaborate with the really fantastic people who are starting really cool companies, come down," he says. "Have a good time, start a company, chase your dream.”

WE ASKED OUR READERS...

What is your favorite small business in COMO?

Do I only get one? Skylark, Yellow Dog, Lakota, Co ee Zone, Bangkok, Sycamore, and Skylark, because books are too important to only be listed once.

– DIANNA BORSI O’BRIEN

Blooms and Wishes Flowers — amazing customer service, new experience for Columbia and overall, just a fun time! I have used their services a few times and they have always outdone themselves. ey o er so many experiences and services, not just a oral bar.

– BROOKE SYDENSTRICKER McCARTY

I have two! Plume and e Tin Roof Monogram & Gift! ey have the best customer service and I (and my little girls) always feel so welcome as soon as we walk in the door. My four-yearold is also especially fond of Tiny Town Play Café “Mommy it’s so fun there and you can get a co ee” — she’s not lying!

– COREY BUCKMAN

Princess Nails! e salon is clean. Great service, easy to schedule for appointments, very professional.

– ALLEN VU NGUYEN

Artistry Salon o ers a clean, safe, beautiful salon space with professionally trained sta that deliver top-tier hair care services.

– BRIDGET WILLIAMS

Dryer’s Shoe Store for sure! In fact, it’s about time for a new pair of tennis shoes!

– AMANDA JACOBS

G & D Steakhouse for the win! You always feel like family when you walk in there and they have the best steak in town!

– TOMMY GORAN

Distant Planet Comics and Collectibles is my favorite spot to nd new books and comics. ey always have a great variety of titles, and they are amazing in helping me nd new series to check out!

– SHELLY FORBIS

F & A Cycle has the coolest stu , and great service and support.

– SEBASTIEN HEINTZ

Toasty Goat Co ee Co. Great co ee, friendly sta and wonderful atmosphere.

– CHARLOTTE SCHAUWECKER

Nourish Cafe & Market and Belly Market & Rotisserie. Amazing owners who care about our town…and delicious food!

– AMANDA RUYLE

Plume! Kelly has such a great variety of products, most from local/area makers. She keeps expanding what she has, as well as the space she needs. If you are ever looking for a neat gift for someone, this is the place to nd it.

– NICOLE DEAN

Toasty Goat Co ee Co. is delicious!

– ANNE MARIE HERNDON

Goldie’s Bagels! Amazing food and they pay it forward.

– LISA CLAIR

Skin Magni que Esthetics Spa LLC amazing services at a ordable prices. Mahala is very knowledgeable and so sweet and caring with her clients.

– BECKY BRANTLEY

Soul Sessions COMO fosters good vibes, community, unity, innovation and creation all while highlighting the beautiful souls, community members, creatives and local talent the Midwest has to o er!

– RONECIA DUKE

Sel e Love Como for being a safe space to love and express yourself!

– KERRIE BLOSS

Sooo many good ones! Star C Empowerment for beautiful handmade jewelry (and veteran owned by just the best lady).

e Grind for my favorite vanilla chai and Aucky. CoMo Picnics because I just love the beautiful designs and a way to take an everyday afternoon snack or meal in the park to a memorable occasion. Plume of course for beautiful and tasty everything.

– SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

Galen’s Auto Body, xes cars with ethics and customers come rst. Also, they’re part of Cars4Heroes, a nonpro t that xes cars and donates them to veterans in need.

–

GALEN DALE HASSLER

Show-Me Dinosaurs because they bring people joy through their events!

– LEAH GLENN

Batter Up Cupcakes LLC, MacKenzie’s Blakery, Cool Beanz, Plume, Big Daddy’s BBQ, Jose Jalapenos — I clearly can’t make tough decisions!

– JENNA MARCH

Rosebuds Baby & Kid Boutique and e Southern Rose — always working hard to bring the best of the best to Columbia! Especially considering there are not a lot of places to buy kiddo stu in town (excluding your big names).

–

MOLLY LINDNER

TOGETHER, WE CAN END ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

JOIN OUR LOCAL MOVEMENT

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than just a one day annual event. It is a local movement to promote continuous support, awareness, and funds to help end Alzheimer’s. Get your team started today and help make a better tomorrow for our entire community!

Start making a difference now at alz.org/greatermo

CARE AND SUPPORT

Want more information about Alzheimer’s? Call our 24/7 helpline at 800.272.3900. Want to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or about local care and support options? Visit alz.org/greatermo to see a list of all the education and support options we offer inperson and virtually.

ADVOCATE FOR CHANGE

Use your voice to advocate for change! Our elected officials need to know that our community cares about supporting local families dealing with this disease.

You can use your voice to take action in just moments by visiting alzimpact.org/actnow.

We’re back at Faurot Field!

Saturday, September 30th

TO REGISTER, VOLUNTEER, OR DONATE, SCAN THE QR CODE

OR CONTACT CHRIS COTTLE AT CCOTTLE@ALZ.ORG