CBT | The Finance Issue 2023

THE

FINANCE

ISSUE

EDITORIAL

Erica Pefferman, Publisher Erica@comocompanies.com

Kim Ambra, Editor-in-Chief Kim@comocompanies.com

Jodie Jackson Jr, Digital Editor Jodie@comocompanies.com

DESIGN

Kate Morrow, Creative Director Kate@comocompanies.com

Jordan Watts, Senior Designer Jordan@comocompanies.com

MARKETING

Charles Bruce, Director of Sales Charles@comocompanies.com

Amanda Melton, Director of Account Services Amanda@comocompanies.com

J.J. Carlson, Director of Web Development jj@comocompanies.com

Sarah Hempelmann, Marketing Representative shempelmann@comocompanies.com Becky Roberts, Marketing Representative Becky@comocompanies.com

MANAGEMENT

Erica Pefferman, President Erica@comocompanies.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lana Eklund, Tony Jinson, Chris Padgett

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Adonica Coleman, Lauren Sable Freiman, Mat Gass, Jules Graebner, Lydia Graves, Jodie Jackson Jr, Matt McCormick, Steve Spellman, Brian Toohey, Emmi Weiner

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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OUR MISSION STATEMENT COMO Business Times and comobusinesstimes.com strive to be Columbia’s leading source for timely and comprehensive news coverage of the local business community. is publication is dedicated to being the most relevant and useful vehicle for the exchange of information and ideas among Columbia’s business professionals.

Copyright e COMO Companies, 2023 All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Amanda Melton J. J. Carlson

Kim Ambra Jodie Jackson Jr

Erica Pefferman

Kate Morrow Jordan Watts Charles Bruce

I’ve always thought that I was pretty good with numbers. They just made sense to me. I even liked algebra and geometry. I had a 4.0 in school…until I went to college. That’s where words like debits and credits, ratios, cashflow, projections, and financial statements started being thrown around. I passed Accounting 1 with a B and had absolutely no idea what was going on. We worked in groups together on all our work, and I was certainly the weak link. But somehow, in Accounting 2 it seemed to make more sense. I got an A and thought I was well prepared for all things financial as I went into the business world. Turns out, I think I was just a good test taker.

In my early days of being on boards, I remember getting handed my first set of financials. What were these strange documents with numbers that were supposed to tell me a story? No matter how many times I turned the pages and nodded thoughtfully along with the treasurer explaining them, I never really fully understood them. Not until many years later. It would be a long time before I realized that there was a big difference between basic accounting and finance.

The thing is good cashflow and good sales can cover up a lot of sins. I lived that way for a long time until during the pandemic when our world started shifting. I found myself having to deal with things financially in a very different way. This is the time in my life where I learned that as a business owner, one of the most important relationships you can have is with a local community bank. My bankers personally walked me through understanding what was happening in my business beyond the deposits coming in and the checks going out. They provided suggestions for speeding up my collections on receivables, how to leverage money in a better way, and what expenses might be out of alignment. I started looking at what clients we had that spent a lot of money but took a lot of time and had very low and sometimes non-existent margins. We used the graph shown here to help determine who was a good fit, who needed some training, who needed to grow, and who needed to be moved on to other opportunities.

Lastly, when I brought on new partners last year, one of the amazing gifts that came with that arrangement was Sara Nivens who is a very gifted CFO. She helped me identify further ways in which we were functioning inefficiently financially such as not charging fees to cover credit card expenses. We looked at ongoing subscriptions, bank fees, interest rates, timing of invoicing, timing of statements, and many other things all of which have really sophisticated our processes.

My biggest lessons during these last couple of years have been twofold: you can’t manage business finances like a household budget and you need to surround yourself with people that know more than you. While I don’t see myself ever taking a collegiate math class again, I feel that I may have earned that real life finance degree.

Mizzou football cornerback Kris AbramsDraine, representing name, image, and likeness and the Every True Tiger NIL marketing agency.

Photo by Anthony JInson.

Meet the Advisory Board for COMO Business Times

CBT ’s advisory board is made up of industry leaders and small business owners who help ensure CBT ’s content is relevant to our local business community.

ERIC MORRISON President Sundvold Financial

STEVE SPELLMAN Senior Investment Officer The Bank of Missouri

SUZANNE ROTHWELL Vice President Advancement Division Columbia College

MEGAN WALTERS Founder & Team Lead The Walters Team, eXp Realty

QUINTEN MESSBARGER President & CEO Missouri Innovation Center, Inc.

BRIAN TOOHEY CEO Columbia Board of REALTORS®

MATT M c CORMICK President Columbia Chamber of Commerce

MATT MOORE Retired Shelter Insurance

JEN HEDRICK President SOA Architecture

SHAWN BARNES Director of Business Development and Recruiting Williams-Keepers LLC

MIKE GRELLNER Vice President Plaza Commercial Realty

BROOKE BERKEY VP Relationship Manager Central Bank

NICKIE DAVIS Executive Director The District, Downtown CID

Closer Look

BOYER PRINT & DESIGN

Boyer Print & Design is a graphic design and screen printing shop o ering custom screen printed apparel and merchandise, graphic design services, and unique promotional products for businesses, organizations, entrepreneurs, and individuals. Its mission is to provide a prompt and professional experience, paired with quality services and products to promote your brand, business, or organization clearly and e ectively.

Owner and operator Brandon Boyer re ects on where he started and where the business has taken him.

“My graphic design journey began in 2004 by assisting my friends and customers with their projects. After many years of freelance design work and screen printing for a local print shop, I committed to starting a fully independent design and print shop, Boyer Print & Design,” Boyer says. “Designing, printing, and providing customer service are natural passions of mine. I love to provide the best possible experience for all of my current and future customers.”

Boyer Print & Design is dedicated to the success of its customers’ projects.

Boyerprintanddesign.com

573-999-9099

CLASSICALLY UNTRAINED VOICE COLLECTIVE

Classically Untrained Voice Collective’s (CUVC) mission is to provide training and support for singers and teachers of singing for a career as versatile as the humans they serve. CUVC is an inclusive community that supports growth inside and out of the vocal studio. Its goal is to incorporate voice professionals of all kinds to o er support and training for folks in the community and beyond who want to expand and gain all the knowledge they can in their ever-evolving eld.

Owners Christina Ray, and Amy Johns say they are both passionate about vocal pedagogy and want to share their love of voice with others.

“In today’s market, singers must be versatile and perform in a variety of styles and genres,” they add. CUVC aims to support teachers of singing and their students. Ray and Johns both attended MU’s School of Music and were drawn back to Columbia to work and teach voice. CUVC is a space for anyone who hopes to grow as a singer and teacher of singing.

classicallyuntrained.com

@classicallyuntrainedvc Facebook: /classicallyuntrainedvc

THE LANDING AT HARPO’S

As an upscale neighborhood bar designed for after-work cocktails, sports viewing, holiday parties, and business gatherings, e Landing at Harpo’s boasts a thoughtfully layered interior featuring warm tones, local art, and luxe materials, evoking thoughts of vintage sporting clubs, meticulously crafted to create a welcoming atmosphere.

With an increased seating capacity, state-of-the-art audiovisual systems, and a dedicated events space, Harpo’s is poised to o er an unparalleled entertainment experience.

Owner Chuck Naylor says “We’re always looking at opportunities to share our iconic brand and impact the community of Columbia in a positive way. Harpo’s is a brand with an incredible history, and we get pitched a lot of ideas. is one just made a lot of sense with the opportunity to bring a long-dormant building back to life downtown with Harpo’s original footprint.”

Harpo’s has also announced its new partnership with Jason Paetzold of Bud’s Classic BBQ, who will be operating a new concept, Bud’s Cantina BBQ at Harpo’s.

27 S. Tenth St. @harposcomo CBT

Would you like us to take a Closer Look at your business? Reach out to our Editor at kim@comocompanies.com.

Briefly in the News

COMMUNITY

New Exhibit Recognizes 30th Anniversary of “The Great Flood”

e Boone County History & Culture Center in Columbia has a new 3,000-square-foot history exhibit titled, “ e Great Flood.” e exhibit marks the 30th anniversary of the Great Flood of 1993.

Boone County has su ered many oods in its 203 years, but the ood of 1993 was record-breaking. In its wake, the Great Flood left a landscape permanently changed. It was one of the most impactful events in the history of the county and the center’s Executive Director Chris Campbell said, “Because it was a signi cant historical event, we felt we had to — and wanted to — produce an exhibit to remind the community of what happened and why it matters.”

e disaster would go on record as the worst ood in United States history when measured by nancial losses, which when adjusted for 2023 rates equates to $37 billion. Boone County was forever changed by the devastation. Yet the exhibit also illustrates how

the ood strengthened community bonds, increased knowledge of the environment, and improved riverine ecosystems. “ e Great Flood” exhibit runs through February 3, 2024. e Boone County History & Culture Center is located at 3801 Ponderosa Street in Nifong Park. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. Admission is free.

AWARDS

Boone Health Ranks in Top 100 of NRC Health Consumer Loyalty Awards

Boone Health has been named in the top 100 in the NRC Health 2023 Consumer Loyalty Awards. e 100 top-performing hospitals are identi ed through the nation’s largest healthcare consumer-perception survey, conducted by NRC Health.

e Market Insights survey annually measures the opinions of more than 300,000 consumers in more than 300 markets across the 48 contiguous United States. e Consumer Loyalty Awards recognize healthcare organizations that consumers rate the highest on an equally weighted combination of net promoter score, brand perception (overall image and reputation), and NRC Health’s proprietary human understanding metric. To qualify for consideration, organizations must have received at least 150 Top-of-Mind mentions on NRC Health’s national Market Insights study between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023.

CELEBRATION

McClure Moves to New Space in Columbia

McClure has announced the relocation of its Columbia o ce. e new o ce space has been designed to foster a culture of collaboration and creativity, helping the team deliver exceptional

services to clients and partners nationwide. Beyond providing a stateof-the-art environment for sta , the new o ce space o ers ample room for entertaining both clients and team members and better access to local amenities.

“We are excited to enter our new o ce space, as it paves the way for promising opportunities and reinforces our unwavering passion to make lives better,” said Dustin Leo, CEO of McClure. “ is investment signi es our commitment to Columbia. e community has consistently drawn exceptional talent due to its quality of life and proximity to prestigious universities. Together with our clients, partners, and community, we are eager to embark on this new phase of growth and success.”

e new o ce is located at 2001 W. Broadway.

EDUCATION

Columbia College Named No. 4 Military Spouse Friendly College in the United States

Columbia College was recently ranked No. 4 among private, nondoctoral higher education institutions in the country for military spouses by MilitaryFriendly.com, which advocates on behalf of service members, veterans, and their families.

e college is celebrating 50 years of its partnership with the U.S. Armed Forces and has more than 20,000 military-a liated alumni.

“We are proud to provide quality and a ordable educational opportunities to students supporting their spouse in the military,” says Dr. Shadel Hamilton, vice president for Columbia College Global. e college’s militarya liated bene t extends reduced military tuition rates and additional bene ts to spouses and dependents of currently serving military members as well as to CC-a liated military

installation employees, their spouses, and dependents.

Annual scholarships support students in the CC military community, including the Lee Terry Russell Military Spouse Scholarship, created by Columbia College President Dr. David Russell and First Lady Lee Russell.

CELEBRATION

Endovac Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Forty years ago, ENDOVAC Animal Health began as a small, familyowned company in Columbia, Mo. e company is celebrating 40 years of providing superior science in the animal health industry throughout the nation and internationally.

In 1983, Ron Sprouse, M.D., Ph.D., and Harold Garner, DVM, both working at the University of MissouriColumbia, researched and developed a vaccine for horses that proved e ective against a broad spectrum of bacteria. Along with Dr. Sprouse’s wife, Dorothy, and Dr. Garner’s wife, Patsy, they founded the company, formerly known as IMMVAC, to commercialize the novel technology. ENDOVAC manufactures vaccines for livestock to aid in the protection of numerous diseases caused by gramnegative bacteria.

e rst product, Endoserum for Equine, received its USDA license in 1986. Over the years, the company grew and specialized in providing products for other industries, including ENDOVAC-Dairy, ENDOVAC-Beef, ENDOVAC-Porci, and ENDOVAC-Equi.

“It started with an idea to make a di erence in agriculture. And, it has. It’s made a profound di erence,” says Kevin Sprouse, ENDOVAC chairman and CEO. “We built something that is pretty special, and I’m very proud of it.”

As part of the celebration, President Steve Knorr unveiled a Legacy Wall at the company headquarters that highlights the company’s history. CBT

Movers & Shakers

COMMERCE TRUST

Commerce Trust, a division of Commerce Bank, announced the addition of four financial industry professionals to its Columbia office. Together they bring almost 90 years of wealth and asset management experience to serve the wealth needs of Commerce Trust clients.

Keith Schawo, CTFA, brings nearly 30 years of experience in the financial services industry to his role as senior vice president and private client advisor team lead with Commerce Trust. He joined the firm after 16 years with Central Trust Company, where he most recently served as executive vice president and market executive.

Greg Jones joins Commerce Trust as a senior vice president and senior private client advisor, bringing more than 20 years of experience in wealth management, estate planning, and trust administration. Previously, he served as senior vice president and trust officer at Central Trust Company.

Sarah Hanneken, CTFA, was named vice president and private client advisor. She came to the firm after 10 years with Central Trust Company, where she served as a vice president and relationship manager.

Steven Je rey was appointed senior vice president and portfolio

manager, bringing more than 30 years of experience in wealth management experience. Previously, he was a senior vice president and senior portfolio manager at Central Trust Company.

JOHN MARKLEY, MD

John Markley, MD, was promoted as chief of the Cardiothoracic Surgery Division within the Department of Surgery at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital. Prior to his promotion Dr. Markley served as chief of cardiothoracic surgery since 2013 and was previously faculty with the Veterans Hospital since 2002 (assigned there for activeduty military service).

Dr. Markley completed medical school and his residency at Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.

Dr. Markley was fellowshiptrained in thoracic and cardiac surgery through Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California Los Angeles. He is a veteran of the armed forces. He served in active duty for 10 years, served two tours in Iraq, and was honorably discharged in 2012 at the rank of lieutenant colonel.

JIM OWEN

James (Jim) C. Owen, president and CEO of Missouri Employers Mutual, will retire at the end of 2023,

after more than a decade with the company.

In a recent news release, Owen says, “My time at MEM has been the most rewarding of my career because of our safety mission and focus on improving workplaces.” Owen joined MEM as a member of the board of directors in June of 2010 and later served as chair of the board, then interim president and CEO from July to December 2011. Since 2012, he has served as president and CEO, setting the vision and strategic direction of the company.

BRITTANY STONE

Having accumulated five years of experience in the mortgage industry, Brittany Stone is a highly accomplished marketing manager for The Walters Team. With a solid background of eight years in marketing, graphic design, and sales, Brittany brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Outside of work, she treasures time spent with her two boys and channels her artistic flair through videography, photography, and other creative endeavors. Brittany is also a firm believer in helping others unleash their artistic expression.

As a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, she runs her own media business and actively supports individuals in their journey to find their true calling. CBT

SCHAWO

JONES

HANNEKEN

OWEN STONE

JEFFREY

MARKLEY

Are you or your employees moving up in the Columbia business community? Send us your news at kim@comocompanies.com

Saving for Retirement is Vital, but Keep it Simple

BY STEVE SPELLMAN

THE CONTINUED ELEVATION of the cost of living has become a normal topic of conversation. e housing market is still nuts and buying a car is not fun — nor is the grocery bill. Refocusing our nances on needs versus wants is a thing, but a hyper-focus on short-term spending can short-circuit longer-term goals.

Accumulating nancial resources for decades into the future is an investing consideration. An investor can have many goals, but by far the most common, and necessary, is saving for retirement. Generations ago, in the good old days, people

started working in their youth, and continued until they physically couldn’t anymore. Relatives provided care for them until they died due to short life expectancies. An industrialized economy saw the creation of Social Security and employee pension plans.

e nature of work has changed greatly in recent generations: people thankfully started living longer, but pension plan investment pools didn’t reach optimistic long-term estimates. ere has been a drift away from traditional pensions, now requiring most Americans to realize the

modern deal is to build their own retirement savings to supplement a minimal baseline of Social Security income.

Back in the 1970s, the government realized that Social Security was not going to be enough, so it created quali ed retirement accounts such as the 401(k) and IRAs, using the carrot of tax advantages to lure people to save for this good purpose.

For most Americans, using the retirement plan sponsored by their current employer is their best opportunity to do so. An employee can choose to have payroll deduct a certain percentage of each paycheck

into their retirement account, and the employer often matches the employee’s contributions by at least 3 or 4 percent.

YEAH, BUT HOW’S THAT WORKING OUT?

A good half century on, this has been quite successful … but only for half of Americans.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 69 percent of private sector workers even have access to workplace retirement bene ts. at means nearly one-third of workers must take the initiative to go do their own thing. And that isn’t happening. e Employee Bene t Research Institute reports that 49.5 percent of American families have $0 saved for retirement.

at’s right. About half of Americans don’t have jack saved to live on in old age. is negligent self-condemnation results in living in poverty and/or working until the day they die.

KICK-START THE SAVINGS HABIT

While Americans need encouragement and incentives toward long-term retirement savings habits, modern retirement plans can get better — because they have to.

First, instead of a common policy of making new employees wait at least a year before they can start saving at their new employer’s retirement plan, allow employees to start saving soon after starting a new job, say within just one to three months.

Once an employee becomes eligible to start saving, instead of requiring an employee to act, make it the default, via an auto enrollment feature so they must opt-out to not save. e default savings rate might start at something small — like 3 percent. An auto escalation feature is also an option, whereby that savings percentage automatically increases each year.

SWITCH TO AUTOPILOT

Old school retirement plan investment options o ered employees a laundry list of mutual funds to pick from. is can work, but for most people, investing is not their thing, so they want to keep it simple.

Diversi ed investment models, such as target date retirement funds are a more modern option, o ering age-appropriate choices for employees of any age. A typical line-up would be o ered in ve-year increments, for when an employee would reach retirement, say about age 65.

For example, a younger worker who would turn 65 in the year 2060 could use the 2060 target dated fund. at fund would be aggressive while they are young, but starting in middle age would automatically begin a gradual “glidepath” where the fund gets more conservative as the employee nears retirement age, which is exactly what most people would want to do. is puts retirement investing on autopilot.

TRANSLATE TO A MONTHLY INCOME BENEFIT

Still, no matter how logical that sounds, it makes a good number of folks nervous seeing the ups and downs of their asset values. Guaranteed income products exist today, but often have high fees and are hard to trade in and out of. Industry players such as global annuity provider Allianz are working on a new generation of retirement income investment options within retirement plans. e holy grail promise on the horizon is to develop an option for employees to build up a projected retirement income stream that doesn’t drop in value, and that can be portable with them if they change employers. at would allow more Americans to recreate something that feels like their own little pension plan.

Social Security is by no means intended to replace most of someone’s working age income in retirement. erefore, workplace retirement plans become of primary importance, as Americans need to be building a nest egg to replace their paycheck in their golden years. Employers should be upping their game to assist their employees to be able to get there. CBT

Steve Spellman is a lifelong Columbia-area resident and political observer.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 69 percent of private sector workers even have access to workplace retirement benefi ts. That means nearly one-third of workers must take the initiative to go do their own thing. And that isn’t happening. The Employee Benefi t Research Institute reports that 49.5 percent of American families have $0 saved for retirement.

SuretyBonds.com Joins Downtown Landscape

From small start-up to the Surety Skyline, a local business with a national view helps fuel COMO’s economy.

BY EMMI WEINER | PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

SURETYBONDS.COM HAS BEEN in the background of Columbia’s business scene for over a decade. is year, however, it joined the heart of Columbia by opening a new o ce, Surety Skyline.

“We reached a stage of maturity in the company and people just needed a nicer space. e last space we had been at for close to 11 years,” explains CEO Josh Kayser.

Surety Skyline takes up the top two oors of the Hawthorn Bank building in the heart of downtown Columbia. e o ce was built by local contractors led by designers at Marathon Building Environments and Steve Koirtyohann as the general contractor. e stunning design features deep blues and the walls will soon be adorned with works by local artists.

“It was not turnkey, it was not plug and play,” says COO Danielle Burrow. “It was very intentional and personalized to Josh’s vision.”

e move is a big step for the local business and is a representation of its journey, and a “thank you” to its employees.

“We’ve matured out of that stage of the company where we prioritize product over o ce. We now have a nice o ce, which also works well with everyone’s lifestyles,” Kayser adds. “When we moved there most of us were 27, 26 years old. We weren’t thinking about these intricate details.”

SuretyBonds.com was founded as an o shoot of the Veterans United family in 2009. e new company provided a muchneeded service of surety bonds, which are a form of insurance, for a variety of professionals like contractors and loan o cers.

“Most of the products we’re selling are required for licensing purposes in heavily regulated industries,” Burrow explains. “ ey are used to guarantee licensing compliance.”

With the new space in the heart of Columbia, SuretyBonds.com expects to become an integral member of the downtown community.

“ e goal of this space is very much about face-to-face, on-site networking,” Burrow notes. “If you want to be integrated in the local business community, move downtown. You’re more accessible to people. You’re more available and centralized.”

THE NEW OFFICE

SuretyBonds.com has steadily grown into a business that takes care of its team and rewards hard work. at’s what the new o ce is all about.

“Part of this was about leveling up past the DIY startup business approach that we’ve historically taken.” Burrow, who’s been with the company since 2009, says. “It’s just been really fun to make something our own from scratch. It’s about rewarding our employees and engaging them in more intentional and meaningful ways on-site. We hope to encourage things like collaboration and hangout time.”

Surety Skyline is a two- oor o ce taking up the fth and sixth oors of the Hawthorn Bank Building on Walnut Street on the east side of the Boone County Courthouse. e design is geared toward comfort and productivity, with noise-canceling tech in all of the conference rooms and adjustable lighting to help maintain circadian rhythms even when inside all day.

“Most of the lighting and the colors mimic daylight, which sends your body signals that it should be awake, and it should be ready to go,” Kayser explains. “Even when it’s cloudy outside, the white lights will look like daylight.”

White bright lights are helpful in some cases and most of the spaces in the o ce feature a variety of dimmers. One can turn up or down the noise canceling as well as change the brightness and color temperature of the lights. e lights are even programmed to help signal employees it’s time to go home.

June 11, 2010

Shortly after getting his certification, Josh sold his first bond, starting the legacy that is now SuretyBonds.com.

November 15, 2011

In just over a year, the business brought in $1 million dollars, a great feat for a small startup.

January 1, 2013

SuretyBonds.com launched a Small Business Scholarship to recognize students with entrepreneurial backgrounds.

“We put dimmers on everything because we knew everyone was going to want different levels of lighting,” Kayser continues. “ ese lights are programmable, and you can change the color” matching the Kelvin temperature. “At 7 p.m. they go to a dimmer temperature to send your body signals that, ‘hey, it’s time to go home,’ and at 6 a.m. they go back up to the high color temperature.”

THE FIFTH FLOOR

e fth oor is home to the executive o ces and the in-o ce sta . ere are a variety of “touchdown spaces” that hybrid and remote employees can use to get work done.

“Employees who are here ve days a week have individual cubbies and convertible standing desks,” Burrow says during a tour, making sure to point out the individual light controls at each workstation.

May 9, 2014

The team had grown from just Josh to a tight group of employees who earned the title of Small Business of the Year.

“ ere are hybrid stations where anybody can plug into for hybrid people as well.”

e fth oor also features a high-tech meeting room.

“ is is our huddle area for team meetings,” Burrow points out. “We can pipe people in on the TV virtually.”

ere is also a wellness room for those who need a little break. It can also be used as a lactation room for new mothers.

THE SIXTH FLOOR

e sixth oor of the o ce is in the space that formerly housed Pressed. Some of the features, like the iconic garage door, were integrated into the new design.

e former Pressed bar was transformed into a stunning cafe and kitchen area for sta to enjoy lunch. Kayser has dreams of inviting well-known chefs into the space for events.

March 5, 2018

The paid internship program welcomed its largest class of interns expanding to 20 students each semester.

ere are a few ex desks for remote workers and a spacious conference room.

e upstairs furniture is modular and movable to make space for larger team meetings and annual events.

“ e idea is a group workspace up here and an event space for vibes,” Burrow adds.

THE DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY

e new o ce and its upscale features are resources that employees can share with their clients and select organizations, including nonpro ts.

“If an employee works with an organization personally, and they need a space for some sort of retreat or event, we hope to help provide that space where these connections exist,” Burrow explains. “We have this room with all this tech, and we really want it to be available and accessible for people to use within the community as well.”

e space is intended to be a cornerstone of the community.

“We really take almost no money from Columbia — we mostly do business nationally. But we do bring money into Columbia,” Kayser remarks. “National companies help cities grow. at’s how cities become bigger and better. It’s a hamster wheel of economics. We pride ourselves on being able to be a national company and being able to support Columbia.”

ough its reach and market is national, SuretyBonds.com will continue to prioritize local connections, too.

Burrow concludes: “We’ve always tried to integrate and support our local business community and for us, being downtown in the heart of it is very important to continue fostering those relationships so we’re more of a known presence in the community.” CBT

SURETYBONDS.COM

803 E. Walnut St., 5th Floor 800-308-4358

suretybonds.com

July 24, 2023

SuretyBonds.com joined downtown’s skyline with a high-tech and well-designed office.

Cash and Credit Lessons Learned the Hard Way

BY ADONICA COLEMAN

Idistinctly recall a conversation with my mother during my early teen years, one that left a mark on my understanding of nancial responsibility. My mother, in her in nite wisdom, sat me down and taught me the lesson of paying bills punctually. She talked about the lure of credit cards by sharing her own ordeal, where she found herself in distress due to an unmanageable credit card balance.

Her encounter with Consumer Credit Counseling and participation in their program enabled her to recover and establish exemplary credit and nancial habits, which have served her well ever since.

Like most knuckleheads, I failed to heed her counsel, and my nancial choices took a perilous turn after graduating from high school. Enrolling in cosmetology school presented a lifeline for me as a single young mother seeking rapid nancial stability. My mother, who owned a salon at the time, o ered me the prospect of immediate and secure employment upon graduation. In a seamless transition, I began inheriting her clientele, guaranteeing me a steady income the moment I started my full-time career at the salon.

What an amazing gift from her that I took for granted, as I know now that most stylists work for years to build a clientele to that level.

e in ux of a stable income, however, came with an unforeseen drawback: it was predominantly cash-based. is was the early ‘90s, an era where debit cards had yet to become the norm, leaving us with the choice of cash or checks. While I dutifully deposited the checks, the allure of a purse full of cash proved too irresistible for a 19-year-old. I found myself funding not only my expenses but also those of my broke college friends. It was never a request from them; rather, my desire for everyone to enjoy the same lifestyle.

Regrettably, these indulgent habits prevented me from saving money and establishing a solid foundation of nancial prudence. e concept of budgeting had never crossed my mind until I became engaged and confronted the necessity of marrying my nancial chaos with that of my partner. is impending responsibility acted as a catalyst, prompting me to scrutinize my spending and begin my journey out of the abyss of a poor credit rating.

e ascent was gradual, spanning several years. I vividly remember checking my credit score frequently, struggling with the disappointing realization that despite consistently meeting my obligations, the numbers inched upward at a snail’s pace.

Much like my mother did for me, I now endeavor to instill a sense of nancial transparency in my own children and the people around me. I engage in candid conversations about the far-reaching implications of frivolous nancial decisions and recommend people look into the myriad resources available like our own local Prosper U program. I sincerely hope that they will internalize the lessons I’ve learned from my own experiences, apply them to their lives, and embark on a less turbulent nancial journey toward the futures they envision for themselves.

CBT Adonica Coleman

is the founder of e COMO 411 and owner of A2D Events.

You can avoid the financial abyss along your journey to success.

MONEY MINDING YOUR

Learn from local FINANCIAL INDUSTRY LEADERS as they provide quality insight and advice in this special advertising section of COMO Business Times.

BEYOND FORGIVENESS: STRATEGIES FOR STUDENTS

After the Supreme Court revoked the Federal Student Loan Forgiveness program this summer, students and households borrowing and repaying student loans are now facing the double-whammy of making those payments while also trying to build savings for the future.

Let’s take a look at how we got here, what’s happening now, and what steps borrowers can take to avoid having their futures crushed by debt.

In his 2021 book, “The Debt Trap: How Student Loans Became a National Catastrophe,” author and Wall Street Journal reporter Josh Mitchell outlines the student loan debt chronology.

• 1862. Passage of the Morrill Act to finance land grant institutions.

• 1958. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the National Defense Education Act, creating the National Defense Student Loan program.

• 1965. President Lydon B. Johnson declared “higher education no longer a luxury, but a necessity” as part of his War on Poverty.

• 1972. Sallie Mae was created to inject banks with cash so they might offer student loans.

• 1976. Congress offers a 100 percent guarantee to lenders of student loans that established “no consequence lending.”

Today, higher education funding is dominated by a slew of financial institutions that have vast political clout alongside financial resources, and participation in higher education is necessary for participation in the American corporate world.

As a result, there was a rising demand for degrees and easy loans. However, senior enrollment in college has been cooling significantly since 2016, just a couple of years after the Department of Education opted to remove the most restrictive underwriting rules for prospective borrowers.

Where are we now?

In June 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Biden v Nebraska to strike down President Biden’s debt relief program to forgive qualifying student loan borrowers up to $20,000 in debt. In August 2023, President Biden launched the SAVE plan, lowering income-driven payments from 10 percent to 5 percent of discretionary income.

The great question for current students is to ask whether college is going to benefit your path? Consider that a plethora of the best paying jobs in the U.S. do not require a four-year bachelor’s degree. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2016 that the median annual wage for air-traffic controllers was $122,410 – a position that requires a two-year associate degree. Other top-paying jobs that do not require a four-year degree include nuclear power reactor operators ($91,170), first-line supervisors of police and detectives ($84,840), elevator installers and repairers ($78,890), and commercial pilots ($77,200).

Students who consider borrowing to finance their education

should ask, “Will my degree find me work post-graduation?” Next ask, “What else could my potential loan payment go to?”

The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis has calculated that when it comes to building wealth and earning greater compound interest, the investor who starts at age 25 setting aside $5,000 a year for 10 years in a row, with no more investments until after age 34, will build savings of $787,180 by age 65. The investor who starts at age 35 and invests $5,000 each year for 30 years in a row until reaching age 65 will build savings of $611,730 by age 65. That’s a comparison worth considering before taking on student loan debt. (Remember the adage: Debt destroys wealth.)

What can we do about the debt trap?

Everyday solutions for everyday students.

• Negotiate your offer. Frame it in a positive light. Don’t use the word “negotiation.” Make sure you are on the same page as the school or employer.

• Assess your payback plan. Find the plan that works for you (Example: 10-year standard repayment or income-driven payment.) Use deductions: The American Opportunity Credit and 1098-E. Consider refinancing. Consider seeing a debt counselor.

• Get your financial house in order. Keep an eye on your financial goals. Organize your finances, have a budget, and stick to it. Don’t miss payments.

• Side hustles. It’s not how much money you make, it’s how much you make on the side.

• Plan future savings. Take advantage of a 401k or IRA. For kids: Education savings accounts (529 plans).

Student loans were intended to give Americans a competitive advantage, but that supposed asset has become a liability for millions of Americans and their families. It’s time we come to grips with this reality.

ACTING ON YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS: WHERE DO

YOU START?

Identifying your nancial goals is an important step in planning for your nancial future. Knowing what you’re working toward allows you to focus your e orts and strategically make advancements toward your goals. While there may be consistent themes, each individual’s nancial goals are unique, as is the path they must take to achieve them. Your strategy or milestones may be di erent than a family member, neighbor or colleague. at is why developing a tailored, nancial plan may prove to be invaluable. is exercise will assist you in prioritizing your goals, help you identify a path forward, allow you to track your progress and o er guideposts as your goals change or evolve over time.

Importance of a Plan

Once you have given some thought to your goals, dedicating time and energy to developing your nancial plan is a logical next step. is analysis will provide a holistic picture of your nancial health and help you determine whether you are on target to meet or exceed your goals. It will take into consideration your starting point and desired timeline. It will assist you in prioritizing your goals. In addition, a nancial plan provides a base line for you to measure your progress and establishes accountability. A trusted nancial advisor, preferably one acting in a duciary capacity, can assist you in putting together your nancial plan. ey will be able to provide guidance as to how you might proceed in order to better position yourself to achieve your goals. In addition, they will be able o er insight as to how di erent paths forward may impact other aspects of your nancial picture. For example, if a change is made to your savings strategy, how does this impact your cash ow and income tax liability? What are the implications of a more growth-oriented or conservative investment approach? What are the pros and cons to selling versus gifting a business entity? Taking a 30,000 foot view allows you to consider all of the moving parts that impact your nancial plan and make educated nancial decisions going forward.

Next steps

It is important to feel comfortable and reassured that your nancial plan is on track to meet your short-term and long-term nancial goals. Your Commerce Trust professionals use a team-based approach to advise you every step of the way to create and implement a nancial plan that will work for your current lifestyle and all the way through your retirement years. For more information, contact us today.

and

LYLE JOHNSON

MBA, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MARKET EXECUTIVE

September 28, 2023.

provide

information

not a recommendation of any particular investment or insurance strategy, is not based on any particular financial situation or need, and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified tax advisor or investment professional. While Commerce may provide information or express opinions from time to time, such information or opinions are subject to change, are not o ered as professional tax, insurance or legal advice, and may not be relied on as such. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

This

opinions

other information in the commentary are provided as of

This summary is intended to

general

material is

One Edward Jones

National Retirement Security week happens in the third week of October. So, it’s a good time to think of ways to boost your own retirement security.

First of all, as you plan for the financial resources you’ll need, don’t underestimate your possible longevity — you could spend two, or even three, decades as a retiree.

And don’t underestimate your health care expenses, which can amount to several thousand dollars a year, even with Medicare.

But you can also take some proactive steps, such as contributing as much as you can afford to your employer-sponsored retirement plan and an IRA.

And once you do retire, you’ll want to ensure you don’t withdraw so much each year from your investment portfolio that you run the risk of outliving your resources. Also, you’ll want to maintain a mix of investments so you have growth and income opportunities. A financial professional can help you balance your portfolio so it fits your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

It can be challenging to make all the moves necessary to help achieve retirement security — but it’s worth the effort.

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More than Meets the Bowl

Kiki the corgi channels anime – and ramen noodles.

BY LYDIA GRAVES | PHOTOS BY VINNIE D E BONO

There are few meals that look as good as those in anime. e media originating from Japan has the secret recipe to make the mouth water. Of course, food in many shows and lms can be enticing. Hence, cooking shows hold a large audience and the embarrassing number of restaurants I’ve

stopped at after seeing them on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

But anime just does it better. It’s incredibly enticing the way the light hits the golden ramen noodles. e brilliant green of the veggies, displaying their crispness as the protagonist takes a bite with a glorious crunch . e beauti-

ful u ness from the bao buns, freshly steamed and emitting swirls from the bamboo basket, alluring the viewer through the screen.

I came across Kiki’s Noodle Bowl on Instagram one fortunate evening. Just like the many autumn nights, watching the subtitled movies all those times

Bibimbap Sunday Brunch at Beet Box. A traditional Korean rice bowl with beef short ribs and assorted vegetables/ banchan.

before, I found myself craving the delectable texture. e thick noodles, tender and soft, made the stomach growl. Birria, tender to the touch, had such a deepness in its color, hinting at the richness in avor. e curiosity and intrigue from the perfect animated lines translated e ortlessly into reality. It created a hunger for more.

KIKI’S SERVICE

Kiki’s Noodle Bowl is a soon-to-launch ramen fusion pop-up in Columbia, Missouri. Vinnie DeBono, owner and creator, nds inspiration from the idea of fusion because of his own background.

“I think it’s just because I’m a fusion person,” he says. DeBono was born in South Korea and was adopted into a Hispanic-Italian family in Chicago, Illinois. He got a taste for di erent cultures through his family. Fusion embraces and represents a large portion of himself both professionally and personally. “It’s like it was kind of hard not to want to try to do a little bit of everything.”

With the concept of the noodle bowl itself displayed boldly, you may be won-

dering who exactly Kiki is in the business. She’s the star, of course. Named after the Studio Ghibli lm, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Kiki is an adorable, soft-spoken, loving corgi.

DeBono sweetly boasts heavily about her presence in his life, as if she is a muse. eir partnership warms and comforts the heart. e duo is easily imaginable on an adventure together, riding trains to distant lands or befriending friendly wood spirits as bonds have done prior in other various Hayao Miyazaki-created lms.

Kiki’s quite the charmer wherever she goes, it seems. Roommate to the duo, Bharani Kumar, has enjoyed being around the sweet, little corgi as well.

“Kiki has the special ability to bring a smile to everyone’s face. It’s hard to feel sad or upset about anything when Kiki bombards you with her love and energy,” Kumar gushes.

For the pup’s touch, the pop-up will have a few dog-friendly supporting plot lines. e event itself will be dog-encouraged. DeBono is hoping Kiki will make many furry friends, to make it

just as much an event for them as it is for the people attending. ere will be a dish titled in the Kiki namesake specically for dogs to dine on. It will be just as re ned and crafted with broth strained of excess fat, some meat from broth extraction, and a milk bone to top it o .

BEFORE KIKI’S FLIGHT

From the enticing dishes to the creative pet treats, the concept has been on the creator’s mind for nearly three years. DeBono was inspired and mesmerized when assisting friends and coworkers with their own respective pop-ups, always willing to help and assist. In turn, he learned a great deal and experienced the process second-hand, creating a comfort now as DeBono anticipates his rst event approaching.

Even beyond simply the inspiration, DeBono’s journey has unfolded largely thanks to family, friends, and coworkers along the way. He moved from Chicago, Illinois to Columbia, Missouri to go to school at the University of Missouri for engineering, but it never quite t his character.

“I just didn’t have any kind of passion or drive for it, especially during my capstone project,” he reminisces. After graduation, he branched into the business and the startup industry. is led to Hempsley Health, a business educating on cannabis and legalization for mental health.

DeBono worked there as COO until a fateful day when Peachtree Catering worked an event for the company. e catering company owners were close friends with DeBono’s boss at the time. Peachtree relayed that the company was hiring to which his boss suggested DeBono and his cooking abilities — a happiness he had not yet realized — being a great match.

“In terms of my cooking experience. [As a kid,] I was the one who cooked dinner for everyone or my entire family growing up,” he recalls. “I learned a little bit of Italian from my dad. And my mom would always do Taco Tuesdays. Having them, having to make dinner for my family, and then also watching Food Network a lot rather than Cartoon Network made up a little bit of my food history.”

After the recommendation, DeBono was brought in to work at the extension of Peachtree Catering company, Beetbox. is began a new chapter — one ripe with passion.

FINDING THE SPIRIT

Doubling as a taste tester, Kumar relays, “I think what makes Kiki’s Noodle Bowl special is the fact that Vinnie is putting himself into every dish. While the base of each dish is just noodles and broth, the avors and cuisine that make up each dish are inspired by his experiences and background.”

Flavors from DeBono’s family are certainly melding and simmering through the noodle bowls. He’s nding a heavy intrigue stemming from Italian-inspired ramen: think cacio e pepe and Italian wedding soup. He’s invested in emulating these traditional, warm dishes with ramen noodles.

He adds, “All the cultures — Asian, Italian, and then Hispanic — kind of have a soup slash noodle tie to it. So it’s kind of nding those avenues where they cross. at’s where I’ve been having fun.”

e noodle bowl concept is in the depths and turning point of setting up dates and nalizing recipe creations. e creator has been using his engineering degree as he crunches on numbers. He explains, “When I got my engineering degree, and then I went into the kitchen, the thing I told myself was that, despite me not using the engineering degree for things like mechanical engineering, I’m still engineering food and engineering avor. As much of a cushion that is for my own ego for not using my degree, I feel like it still reigns through.”

He has been able to use skills learned through managing Beetbox’s social media, to, in turn, manage his own. e Instagram — @KikisNoodleBowl — has demonstrated the logo-making process, paired along with recipes coming together in fruition.

It is all in preparation for the opening date. October 23, 2023, is Kiki’s birthday as well as the goal date for the rst noodle bowl pop-up. It will be hosted at Beetbox, DeBono’s “second home” in the Arcade District at 602 Fay Street. Kiki will be dressed up to look like her Delivery Service character, large red bow and all. Live music may also be present, setting the mood for the service. DeBono encourages reaching out on Instagram for a reservation to the opening night or the next date to come.

At its core, Kiki’s Noodle Bowl is like the moment of victory for the drawn-up main character. e bright colors and smiles gracing the screen somehow bring just as much contentment to the viewer. It’s a celebration of Vinnie DeBono, his many cultures, his journey, and who he’s become. It’s nally tasting the most-coveted food in media, in all its golden, soft, burst-of- avor glory. e brush strokes and perfectly placed lines coming to life in a bowl of warm, authentically inauthentic goodness.

It’s a party for Kiki, her birthday, and the bond built between the two. It’s friendly, joyous, and a good time for people and their sidekicks alike. And, of course, it’s an opportunity for Kiki to make a lot of new friends. CBT

This story was originally published at comobusinesstimes.com on September 22, 2023.

A collaboration between Vinnie and, the baker at Beet Box, Zoe McDermit. Croissant Cone with Biscoff Ice Cream. “We saw some viral posts on Instagram about it and had to flex on them ourselves.”

A personal moment from a float trip with friends. Vinnie made ramen for everyone and then took a second to feed himself and admire his own work. The bowl itself has tempura onions, fried marinated tofu, soy egg, pork belly, and green onion.

CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT AS A FINANCIAL STRATEGY

By Brad Roling broling@midambk.com

You may have seen Certificates of Deposit (CDs) advertised lately. You may have even brushed them aside thinking they were an outdated way for your business to save. However, CDs can actually be a great saving strategy for your business.

So, what is a Certificate of Deposit and how does it work? Think of a CD as essentially a savings account that earns interest on a lump sum of money for a specific period of time, known as a term. CDs generally have higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts, which means a higher return on your investment. Rates are fixed, meaning they will earn the same interest rate for the duration of the term. This can be an advantage over other savings tools where the rate could change with the market. Usually, the money must remain for the duration of the CD in order to earn the maximum interest and avoid early withdrawal penalties.

When the CD reaches the end of its term and matures, you have options of what to do with the funds and earned interest. Most Banks provide a grace period when a CD matures for you to choose to renew the CD or withdraw the funds without penalty. If the CD automatically renews like most, the money in the CD will be invested in a new CD if you do nothing during the grace period. The interest rate and/or term for the new CD are not guaranteed to be the same as your current CD. Another option is to take the money out or reinvest it in a different CD program. If you do nothing with the funds, your money will remain in the account and not earn interest at maturity. It is important to know what the

specific terms of your CD are so you can plan accordingly. Be sure to speak to your bank about the specific details of your Certificate of Deposit.

Now that you know more about CDs, why are they a great investment strategy for businesses? Typically, businesses keep a reserve of funds in savings or a money market. If you want to earn more interest and don’t have an immediate need for the money, a CD can be a great option. CDs are also a secure way for your money to grow as they are typically insured by the FDIC. The money in a CD can be used to help your business save for a specific project or purpose without the urge to use the money for something else. When considering a CD,

Brad Roling is the Columbia Market President for Mid America Bank. Brad has more than 10 years of banking experience that he uses to help businesses in and around Columbia thrive. When he is not helping your business with its financial needs, Brad is serving the community in a variety of capacities. He is proud to serve on the Ronald McDonald House Mid-Missouri Board of Directors as Treasurer, the Columbia Chamber Foundation Board, and Beta Theta Pi Advisory Board. Brad is a proud Mizzou grad and loves cheering on the Tigers!

you will also want to consider your liquidity, so be sure you leave enough in your reserve for an emergency. Finally, another perk of a CD is that it may be pledged as collateral on a loan, serving two purposes for your business at once.

If you’re curious what kind of return your business could earn from a CD, use our Future Value Calculator by scanning the QR code. Simply plug in your information and the calculator will show the potential return on your investment. If you’re interested in how a CD could help your business saving strategy, let’s talk!

HISTORIC RESTORATION AND RENOVATION DESERVE THE PROST LEVEL OF EXPERTISE

By Vaughn Prost info@prostbuilders.com

New schools, office buildings, medical buildings, manufacturing facilities, churches, and a variety of other new construction projects have been part of the Prost Builders’ lineup of projects for three-quarters of a century. With a legacy of quality work completed for clients throughout Missouri and beyond, the company carries on the Prost family’s tradition of excellence that began eight generations ago in Europe.

With such a long and thriving history, it’s no wonder the company — now employeeowned — has a lengthy portfolio that is brimming with stunning, historically significant renovation and restoration projects. And the Prost Builders reach has certainly been statewide.

Historical renovation and restoration projects include the Boone County Courthouse in Columbia, the Cole County Courthouse in Jefferson City, and the Gasconade County Courthouse in Hermann. Prost also has its stamp of excellence on historic buildings and facilities on the University of Missouri, Columbia College, and Stephen College campuses, including Jesse Hall and Swallow Hall, Dulany Hall, and Senior Hall.

Some of the most visible work has been done at the Governor’s Mansion and the Missouri State Capitol Building. Other projects include historic renovation and restoration of the Haas building in Neosho – a 30,000 square foot structure built in 1898 — and adaptive reuse and renovation of the historic Spanish revival architecture of the Marquette Hotel, now a Class A office space in downtown Cape Girardeau.

Several churches with long histories and remarkable architecture that have involved Prost Builders’ renovation and restoration expertise include St. Joseph Church in Westphalia, Sacred Heart Church in Columbia, and the Central United Church of Christ in Jefferson City..

But there’s another particular project that captures the essence and experience of living in the Show-Me State. It’s the historic renovation and restoration of the home that Mark Twain — the pen name of author and master storyteller Samuel Clemens — grew up in. The house in Hannibal, Missouri, was built in 1844 by Mark Twain’s father, John Marshall Clemens, in 1844.

You don’t have to be an avid student of history to know that Hannibal and his boyhood home provided the setting for the Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn novels, which are considered two of the greatest American novels in history. (Twain also worked as an apprentice with a printer and then as a typesetter, as well as writer for his brother’s newspaper, The Hannibal Journal. His story — and the classic stories he wrote — include becoming a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River, where he adopted the “Twain” monicker.)

Vaughn Prost is the owner and president of Prost Builders lnc., a design/build and construction services firm located in Columbia. Vaughn has over forty years of domestic and international design and construction experience as a cost and scheduling engineer, structural engineer, owner’s construction representative, and general contractor.

(573)

3305 Crawford Street Columbia, MO 65203

Prost Builders is proud of its role in restoring and renovating Twain’s boyhood home, which is listed as a National Historic Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Through the years, the house underwent several additions and changes. The home is now restored to its original size and design when it was occupied by the Clemens family. The house was leaning nearly 10 inches out of plumb, making this project very delicate to restore.

Pressure was applied to the wall timbers, allowing the house to be leaned up to plumb again. The house was moved threequarters of an inch every other day towards plumb until the leaning was corrected. A restored chimney and addition on the back of the house was built to bring the home into conformance with the design and size of the house that Samuel Clemens remembered as a child.

Whether it’s a new build, like a medical office, school, church, manufacturing plant, or an historic renovation and restoration project, Prost Builders is resolved to bring to the construction client a standard of quality and dependability unparalleled in the construction industry.

VAUGHN PROST Owner & President

KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER’S WORTH

By Erica Pefferman erica@comomarketing.co

Measuring the lifetime value of a customer (LTV) may sound complex, but it’s like figuring out the value of a good friendship - you look at how much joy and benefit it brings over time. In the business world, LTV is crucial for understanding how valuable each customer is throughout their journey with your company…and for deciding how much you’re willing to invest in marketing to acquire them. Here’s a casual breakdown of how to measure it:

1. Know Your Customer

Just like in any relationship, you need to get to know your customer first. Gather data on their buying habits, preferences, and how long they’ve been doing business with you. It’s like remembering your friend’s favorite food and how long you’ve known each other.

2. Add Up Their Purchases

Calculate the total amount a customer spends with your business. This includes all purchases, big and small, over time. Think of it as adding up all the times your friend treated you to coffee or dinner.

3. Count Their Visits

How often does your customer come back? Count how many times they make purchases. If they visit your store or website frequently, it’s like your friend who calls or meets up with you regularly.

4. Calculate Average Purchase Value

Find the average amount they spend per purchase. Divide the total purchase

ERICA PEFFERMAN President & Owner

amount by the number of times they’ve bought from you. This shows if they’re more into buying just a little or splurging. It’s like figuring out if your friend prefers casual outings or extravagant dinners.

5. Estimate Their Lifespan as a Customer

Predict how long this customer will stick around. This is like guessing how many more years you and your friend will stay in touch. Longer relationships can mean more value.

6. Don’t Forget About Costs

Just like managing your own budget, consider what it costs to keep this customer. Include marketing, advertising, and customer service expenses. If it’s too costly to maintain the relationship, it might not be as valuable as you thought.

7. Discount Future Money

Money today is worth more than the same amount in the future. Apply a discount rate to future earnings to account for this. It’s like recognizing that getting $100 today is better than getting it a year from now.

Erica Pefferman is the owner and president of COMO Companies, which owns and operates COMO Magazine, COMO Business Times, COMO Marketing, and COMO Tickets. In 2017, Erica was named Outstanding Business Woman of the year and her team was named the Columbia Chamber Of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year.

573.499.1830 | comomarketing.co

8. Add It All Up

Now, it’s time to do some math. Multiply the average purchase value by the number of purchases and then by the estimated lifespan of your customer. Don’t forget to subtract the costs. This will give you a rough idea of their LTV.

LTV = (Average Purchase Value × Number of Purchases × Estimated Lifespan) - Costs

By following these steps, you’ll have a casual estimate of how valuable your customer is to your business. Just like in a friendship, some customers might be more valuable than others. If their LTV is high, you’ll want to nurture and maintain that relationship. On the other hand, if it’s low, it might be time to reconsider your strategy or focus on attracting new, potentially more valuable customers. In the end, measuring LTV helps you understand the impact of each customer on your business’s success. It’s like recognizing the difference between a friend you meet once and one you cherish for a lifetime – both are valuable, but one may bring more joy and benefit in the long run.

NAVIGATING THE MEDICARE MAZE AMID THE MAILER MAYHEM

By Laurie Quail Laurie@insuranceplusllc.com

In today’s modern era, the constant deluge of mailers and information can make the task of understanding and selecting the right Medicare coverage seem daunting. For Medicare benefit recipients and their caregivers, this flood of data is often confusing rather than helpful. But fear not, whether you’re on the cusp of turning 65, happily settled in your golden years, or a compassionate caregiver, we’re here, ready to serve and guide you through this Medicare maze just like we we’ve been here for your tax, accounting, payroll and other insurance needs.

For those celebrating their 65th birthday, it’s an exciting moment but also a time to carefully explore your Medicare options. It may seem overwhelming, but understanding the core elements of Medicare can empower you to make a well-informed choice. Always remember, one size does not fit all.

Even for eligible benefit recipients that have been on Medicare for years, it’s critical to periodically reassess your plan. Changes in health status, medication, or even a location move can significantly impact your coverage needs. It’s prudent to revisit your plan annually to ensure it aligns with your evolving healthcare requirements.

As a caregiver or family member, you face a unique set of challenges. Understanding your loved one’s Medicare coverage is crucial. It’s about more than just knowing the cost; it’s about fully

understanding the extent of coverage, potential out-of-pocket expenses, and any restrictions that may apply.

Although we don’t work for Medicare. gov, our insurance team is licensed and certified on the plans, and ready to help this season with reviewing your upcoming 2024 plans. There are changes coming and we know you have questions. Here’s a quick breakdown of what we offer:

Education: We’ll explain the basics of Medicare, aiding you in understanding the system and what each plan entails.

Annual Review: We’ll guide those already on Medicare to reassess their plan annually ensuring it remains conducive to their healthcare goals.

Caregiver Support: We’ll help caregivers understand the Medicare coverage, costs, and potential restrictions that might affect their loved one’s care.

Our mission is to serve our community by dispelling the myths and misinformation about Medicare. We believe that every eligible person deserves to make an informed decision about their healthcare, and we are dedicated to making this possible.

Navigating the Medicare maze doesn’t have to be a solitary or daunting journey. With the right assistance and understanding, you can traverse this path with confidence.

Partying is Serious Business

Lisa Wampler offers a peak into the event management business.

BY JULES GRAEBNER

AMID THE HUSTLE and bustle of our everyday lives, where precious moments often seem to whiz by in a blur, there’s something special about the art of celebration. Whether it’s shedding a tear of joy at a wedding reception or goo ng o with coworkers at a company holiday party, these events allow us to step back and revel in those cherished moments.

It’s why Lisa Wampler, co-owner of Blue Diamond Events and XSIV Entertainment, believes that partying is a serious business.

For more than 10 years, Wampler and her husband, Jonathan Verdejo, have worked overtime to create top-notch parties for Columbia and beyond.

“We o er a really wide range of vendor services, from planning, design, coordination, and management,” Wampler says, adding that their companies also o er DJs, emcees, lighting, photographers, videographers, decor, and photo booth rentals — nearly everything a client could need. She adds, “ e only thing we don’t do is food, [but] I can source it.”

Additionally, both Blue Diamond Events and XSIV Entertainment o er bilingual services.

STARTING WITH DANCE STEPS

“[Jonathan and I] met when I was in college, here at Mizzou. He was the resident DJ at a Latin bar downtown,” Wampler says. “ ey would have dance lessons ahead of time, before they opened the club, and I met him that way.”

Bonding over their shared love of music, Lisa and Jonathan were close friends for a decade before becoming a couple. en, they had the idea to start a business.

“When we started, [Jonathan] was our sole DJ and I was doing the backend o ce stu , organizing everything and interacting with customers,” she explains. “We

grew to adding photo booths, planning, videographers, and as time went on, we decided to move back here to Columbia.”

eir growth was partly inspired by their time living in Las Vegas.

“It was a natural evolution for us to grow, because we’re so detail-oriented and we’re so big on the client experience. It wasn’t just, ‘Oh, we have a DJ,’” she says. “It was asking clients, ‘What do you want out of this? What do you want it to look like?’ at was always our focus — coming from Vegas, we wanted everything to be an experience.”

Wampler continues, “ at was something we wanted to hold onto, so [growth] just happened naturally. e more we helped clients think through logistics and ensuring that things would run as smoothly as possible, the more we realized, ‘ is is something we can actually o er people.’”

at epiphany birthed Blue Diamond Events. O cially launched in 2012, the company mainly managed weddings and wedding receptions. However, as time went on, Blue Diamond Events gained notoriety and clients began contacting the company to help with a plethora of di erent events.

TWO (COMPANIES) IN A POD

After becoming known for its success in the wedding industry, Wampler and her team felt that Blue Diamond Events needed to be able to shine in its niche.

“We started getting asked to do more corporate events, community events, so we ended up splitting into two different brands,” she explains. “Blue Diamond Events just does weddings now, and XSIV Entertainment handles everything else. ey have the same service options, same team members, but when it comes to branding, we’ve split them apart. Wed-

dings are very di erent from group parties, for example, so we [wanted] that to be clear.”

Since the companies o cially split in 2019, both Blue Diamond Events and XSIV Entertainment have o ered the company new ways to celebrate in style, no matter the type of event. With 17 team members across the board, each member is carefully selected for their attitude and skill.

“It’s hard work, but honestly, what makes it such a great job is not just because we have awesome clients and we get to do what we love,” Wampler says. “We get to work with really cool people, all of the time. It’s a good feeling to go to work, sit, and talk with other creative people, and get to see the people you want to see when you show up. It’s a community, and we try to keep that culture and friendliness, that ‘everybody helps everybody’ feel.”

“It was asking clients, ‘What do you want out of this? What do you want it to look like?’ That was always our focus — coming from Vegas, we wanted everything to be an experience.”

LISA WAMPLER

PHOTO BY LANA EKLUND

at sentiment rings true, as Wampler says that giving back is an important aspect for both companies and their employees.

“Recently, we did a wedding giveaway,” she adds, noting that Blue Diamond Events helped give a couple their dream wedding. e lucky couple had spent so much time and e ort caring for their daughter, who requires intensive medical treatment, that they never found the time to get married. With the company’s help, the couple tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony that didn’t cost them a cent.

Wampler adds, “It was a massive undertaking, but this is what we do, this is what we’re good at, and we want to contribute, no matter what.”

THE PARTIES OF TOMORROW

Looking at the future for the two companies, Wampler’s forecast is simple: “ e sky’s the limit, right?”

And the focus — making memories — will not change.

“ e reason that we do what we do is that we want people to have a good experience. We want people to have a great time,” she says. “If you walk away with one thing, it’s that if you’re going to work with us, you won’t need to stress about your event. Any crazy thing that may come up, any last-minute change, we’ll get it done. We want [clients] to look out at the end of the night and say, ‘ at’s exactly how we wanted it — it’s better.’”

Wampler laughs, then adds: “And that’s when we sit down and we’re like, ‘Okay. I can take a breath.’” CBT

BLUE DIAMOND EVENTS, LLC

573-567-0016

info@ bluediamond-events.com

bluediamond-events.com

XSIV ENTERTAINMENT

855-974-8368

info@xsiventertainment.com

xsiventertainment.com

Top left photo by Abigail Derrick Photography. Top right photo by Bella Faith Photography. Bottom photo by Crabill Photo Co.

Date the Rate, Marry the House

Mortgage rates are higher, but you shouldn’t wait to buy.

BY BRIAN TOOHEY

AS THE FEDERAL RESERVE continues to ease in ation to normalize volatile monetary policy due to COVID-19, mortgage rates remain at their highest level in over 22 years. e Federal Reserve (the Fed) does not set mortgage rates, but its actions can in uence mortgage rates, personal loans, savings accounts, and many more items that a ect consumers positively and negatively. During COVID, the Fed took several actions that pushed rates down to historic lows, creating mortgages with a 3 percent or less rate. As the economy has recovered, mortgage rates have more than doubled, causing home buyers to sit on the sidelines to see if rates will fall again.

However, buyers would be better o buying now instead of waiting.

A majority of housing economists and large-scale mortgage lenders have been predicting mortgage rates will drop more than a percent in the next year as in ation continues to fall. Buyers should consider a new adage: “Date the rate, marry the house.” e theory behind this catchphrase is to buy the house you want for the long term and re nance when rates drop in the short term. is way, a buyer can take advantage of current prices and buy sooner rather than later to avoid paying a high purchase price later.

Home prices continue to increase, especially locally. While some parts of the country have seen price declines, that was focused in markets where price appreciation was the highest in the last three years. Home prices in Boone County have

continued to increase, even as sales have declined since mortgage rates hit 5 percent. e average price for a single-family home in Boone County increased almost 5 percent from last year.

Another reason to buy now and renance later is less competition from other buyers in the market. As the 30-year xed rate mortgage remains above 7 percent, some buyers are waiting on the sidelines to see if rates come back down; for other buyers, it can be an a ordability issue. When mortgage rates do decline, it will cause more buyers to jump back into the market, pushing up prices even higher. e further rates drop, the more buyers will take advantage. It’s been estimated that if mortgage rates fall to 6 percent, more than three million households can purchase a median-priced home.

at’ll make buying competition even more sti than it is now.

Everyone wants to brag about how low of an interest rate they got when they purchased or re nanced their home. Unfortunately, no one’s bragging anymore, and current buyers are paying over 7 percent or higher. e concept of “date the rate, marry the house” gets buyers into a home now with a xed rate mortgage they can a ord and re nance when rates come back down. e housing shortage crisis is not ending anytime soon, and many current homeowners are “rate locked,” keeping them from selling; both issues should cause prices to increase and competition to remain sti . Find the house you love and buy for the future bene ts, and take advantage of current market conditions. CBT

Brian Toohey is the Chief Executive Officer for the Columbia Board of REALTORS®

A buyer can take advantage of current prices and buy sooner rather than later to avoid paying a high purchase price later.

DREW SMITH

MARKET PRESIDENT, FIRST STATE COMMUNITY BANK

JOB DESCRIPTION: My responsibilities are to lead and grow the Columbia, Boonville, and Marshall markets for our Central Missouri team.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:

I started in banking when I was in college at Mizzou in 2002. My rst job was as a part-time teller and then I eventually opened accounts and made small consumer loans. Joe Miller and Matt Williams encouraged me to move into commercial loan processing and credit analysis. I have been so fortunate to learn from some of the best bankers in Columbia.

HOMETOWN: Novelty, Missouri

YEARS LIVED IN COLUMBIA:

I moved to Columbia in the fall of 2002 when I started college at Mizzou. I met my wife, Tory, at Mizzou and we made Columbia our permanent home.

QUOTE YOU LIVE BY: My high school basketball coach always told us, “Nothing works unless you do!” which was always a favorite of mine. e other one I use daily is from Joe Miller, “It is never as good as it seems or never as bad as it seems but somewhere in between.”

Photo by Chris Padgett

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER/COMMUNITY ACTIVITY: Currently I serve as the Boys & Girls Club Board Chair. I love what that organization does for our youth. BGC has had so much support in our community over the years and it has been an honor to be a small part of the organization. I have been fortunate to work with Rainbow House, Love Columbia, and Boy Scouts in my time in Columbia.

FAVORITE RECENT PROJECT: We have been remodeling our bank location on Bethel and Nifong. It has been a little like living in your home while remodeling — challenging and rewarding all at the same time. is remodel will allow us to put several of our team members and product partners into one building.

A COLUMBIA BUSINESSPERSON

YOU ADMIRE AND WHY: Columbia is full of incredible businesspeople. I have had some tremendous mentors and friends over the years including Joe Miller, Matt Moore, Matt Williams, and Jim Schatz. If I can earn a small amount of the respect most in Columbia have for these individuals, I will consider my career a success.

IF YOU WEREN’T DOING THIS FOR A LIVING, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING: Coming from a small town with an older brother and sister active in athletics I had a passion for sports and participated year round, playing several di erent ones throughout the year. When I was 13 my brother randomly talked me into playing golf with him, which I had never done. I was instantly hooked and obsessed with the game. I knew I was never good enough to make money playing the sport (other than our regular game at Old Hawthorne on Saturday morning). My plan was to go into the golf business in some capacity. Luckily for me, I was able to stay connected with golf through banking.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR JOB: I tend to be conservative and risk-averse, which is good for a banker I suppose. Entrepreneurs and the calculated risks they take to innovate

and be successful have always been fascinating to me. I love being around creative people and those willing to start their own new path even though that isn’t in my nature. I am so ful lled when seeing one of my clients achieve their dreams, especially knowing the risks that it took to ultimately accomplish.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR COMPANY: Organizations talk all the time about culture. In my time of nearly seven years with First State Community Bank I can say it isn’t just talk. Products and services that banks o er do not vary much but what matters are the people. We have a family atmosphere that thrives based on the focus of our core values. I know it sounds corny, but I didn’t realize how true it was until I joined this team.

WHAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION: Banking is a changing industry. It impacts every aspect of your life both professionally and personally. In the current economic environment things seem to change quickly and having an established and trusted relationship with a communityfocused bank can make all the di erence.

YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL GOAL: We are in growth mode at First State Community Bank. My role has changed over the last few years to focus less on production and more on growing our team. is is an area where I hope to nd ways to be impactful.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED IN BUSINESS: e biggest lessons I have learned in business are relationships are a huge part of success, self-awareness is one of the best qualities a person can possess, and being genuine when dealing with others is something that will never send you down the wrong path.

HOW YOU WANT TO IMPACT THE COLUMBIA COMMUNITY: e approach I have always taken whether it is a nonpro t board, a charity golf tournament, or something through our church at Alive in Christ is to leave

whatever it is a little better than you found it. Connecting people with the resources they need or being willing to help others may not dramatically impact the Columbia community but it sure will have a dramatic impact on the life of that individual.

GREATEST STRENGTH: Dependability. When I make a commitment, I can see it through and do what I say I am going to do.

GREATEST WEAKNESS: Stress. I am no doubt my mother’s son and God bless her she is a worrier. at is a trait I inherited from her.

WHAT YOU DO FOR FUN: I love to play golf. It has been a huge part of my life and something that has a orded me some great opportunities. My wife and I love to travel but unfortunately for her most of the places we travel are where I want to play golf, but she likes that it gives us a speci c destination and a plan!

FAVORITE PLACE IN COLUMBIA: My favorite place in Columbia is either at Old Hawthorne on the golf course or at our tailgate in Lot O at Mizzou football games.

ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF: I am really proud of the team we have built at First State Community Bank. When I made the decision to join the team at FSCB it was scary and new but allowed me the opportunity to put my own stamp on something professionally. e group of people that we have assembled in Columbia is the best and is like family to me. CBT

I am so fulfi lled when seeing one of my clients achieve their dreams, especially knowing the risks that it took to ultimately accomplish.

NAME. I MAGE. LIKENESS.

BY JODIE JACKSON JR

PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

Every True Tiger seeks to navigate the ‘wild, wild west’ of a new era for college athletics.

FOR JUST FIFTY BUCKS ,

Mizzou All-American “ iccer Kicker”

Harrison Mevis will autograph something for you. Considering that his celebrity went to another level — see: Southeastern Conference record-setting, 61-yard game-winning eld goal against K-State on September 16 — the senior’s monetary stock might also rise if he continues to produce ESPN-worthy highlights.

Starting at $15 and depending on your need, Mevis will make a social media post for you. He’s also open to providing a “shout out” video or even a personal appearance at your event. e prices of those features start at $100.

How about an autograph (starting at $150) or an appearance (starting at $1,000) from Tiger quarterback Brady Cook? An autograph ($50 starting price) or social media post ($37) from U.S Olympian and two-time NCAA champion/Academic All-American Mizzou wrestler Keegan O’Toole? MU women’s soccer forward Kylee Simmons, who has 48,000 followers on TikTok, will post on social media for you, appear, or autograph something for you, with prices for those services starting at $186, $294, and $748, respectively.

Simply put, student-athletes may now earn compensation for their name, image, and likeness (NIL). Businesses and individuals interested in availing themselves of an athlete’s NIL can nd a listing of participating Mizzou athletes at opendorse.com/missouri-tigers.

“Any athlete can do NIL deals,” says Nick Garner, executive director of Every True Tiger (ETT), the NIL marketing agency that executes marketing campaigns on behalf of Mizzou Athletics and helps connect Mizzou student-athletes with sponsors, products, and brands. When NIL money changes hands, the athlete’s college or university is not involved in the transaction. Garner says that “at least a couple hundred MU athletes” are capitalizing on NIL opportunities.

A new era for student-athletes

What is the ceiling for NIL deals? How high can they go? Louisiana State University gymnast Olivia Dunne has her own clothing line, multiple appearances in television commercials, a photo gallery in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition, and some 14 million social media followers. Her annual earnings exceed $3 million.

Garner, who introduced the Columbia Chamber of Commerce to ETT and NIL at a membership breakfast on September 27, is quick to point out the rarity of Dunne’s eye-popping, seven- gure nancial success.

“ e headlines really are what get all the notoriety,” he adds, “when people read about certain athletes across the country getting some astronomical amount of money. at does happen, but only in very rare circumstances.” ( e Associated Press reported that NCAA Division I athletes earned an average of $3,711 in the rst year of NIL.)

For Garner, NIL is about “an opportunity for student-athletes to create a better opportunity for themselves” by being compensated.

It’s still illegal for colleges to directly pay or compensate players beyond traditional athletic scholarships, and athletes must disclose their NIL deals to their college or university’s athletic department, a process that ETT helps facilitate. Most states with NIL laws — including Missouri — stipulate that NIL deals are closed records, meaning they are only reported publicly if the athlete makes it public knowledge.

‘It’s a game-changer’

e ability for an intercollegiate athlete to monetize his or her name, image, and likeness has only been legal since 2021. Prior to that, such nancial transactions were forbidden and swiftly penalized with steep rami ca-

tions for athletes, their schools, and their athletic programs. Any whisper of such nancial arrangements was met with panicked gasps, raised eyebrows, and almost certain NCAA retribution in lost scholarships, postseason bans, and sundry other penalties that could substantially alter an athletic program for years or decades to come.

But NIL has changed the landscape of college sports, recruiting and, if the Missouri General Assembly has any say, it has or will soon alter the balance of power in competition with the likes of Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and the University of Southern California (USC) for wins and cream-of-the-crop athletes — especially in-state athletes who are being wooed by another Power Five conference athletic program.

“It’s a game-changer,” says Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia. “I think you’re going to see it level the playing eld a little bit,” noting that the Alabamas and Georgias can “get any player they want” based solely on the trophies and reputation those schools have accumulated. MU can continue to show potential recruits “we provide a great college experience,” he adds, “but we are also willing to help you get the dollars in the door.”

Putting it lightly, Rowden notes, “It’s an interesting time and a time of transition.”

The ‘Prime’ Effect

Combining the NIL opportunities with the transfer portal in college athletics where athletes can move from school to school without having to sit out a year before playing has already created a near-seismic shift of athletic program power. As of late-September, there is no better case in point than the University of Colorado, which hired NFL Hall-of-Famer and former collegiate football star “Neon” Deion

“Primetime” Sanders as its head coach, one season after he turned around the football program at Jackson State.

With a robust NIL collective in place at Colorado and thanks to 50-some athletes coming with him via the transfer portal, Coach Prime elded an electrifying team that went from a one-win season last fall to a Top 20 ranking by this season’s third week. ough the Colorado Bu aloes got thoroughly clobbered in Week 4, the Sanders Tsunami served notice that college sports have entered a new era.

In some ways, NIL 2.0 has already arrived in Missouri, thanks to a bill signed in August by Gov. Mike Parson. Missouri, which was among the rst states in the country to adopt NIL

legislation in 2021, expanded NIL to high school athletes who sign letters of intent to attend an in-state college or university. ere are other restrictions, of course, but what’s most notable is that a high school athlete may now earn NIL compensation without losing college athletics eligibility.

Mizzou’s NIL marketing agency — Every True Tiger Brands, LLC — is a for-pro t clearinghouse of sorts that connects corporate or private sponsors with the student-athletes. It’s a space Garner is uniquely familiar with, as he previously worked to help establish Lear eld’s NIL strategies for 180 universities around the country.

ETT’s agency fee is generally 15 percent of student-athlete NIL deals,

which Garner stresses are not “pay-forplay” arrangements, but rather a value arrangement with the athlete providing a scope of work for a business or brand.

“What is the value of a Mizzou athlete to a local business?” he asked the Chamber breakfast gathering.

ere’s certainly value for the student-athletes, said O’Toole, who was among a contingent of Mizzou athletic department representatives at that event. O’Toole noted that one wrestling team member is a walk-on, meaning he receives no scholarship assistance. An NIL deal helped that wrestler pay his rent.

“You really can make a big impact on athletes’ lives,” he told the crowd. “We truly are super lucky.”

KRIS ABRAMS-DRAINE

Mizzou Football Cornerback

Mizzou women’s basketball coach Robin Pingeton said there are three players in the SEC making seven- gure incomes and NIL assures another team that its players will all make at least $50,000 a year. She listed small businesses, large businesses, nail and hair salons, automobile dealers, and grocery stores as potential good NIL connections with athletes.

“Nothing’s too big; nothing’s too small,” Pingeton added. “ ere are a lot of ways you can go about building those relationships.”

Garner said the relationship aspect of NIL is the essence of the new marketing opportunities.

“We want what’s best for the student-athlete,” Garner explains. “We also want the right t for the student-athlete.” Every True Tiger helps create marketing campaigns on behalf of Mizzou Athletics, using Mizzou athletes, but also focuses on educating the student-athlete on the bene ts of NIL, on subjects ranging from understanding taxes and nancial management to personal brand development and marketing.

In fact, the state’s NIL law requires nancial literacy workshops and other structured programs to meet ongoing NIL eligibility.

“NIL is in its infancy,” Garner adds. “We’re still in the early phases.”

“NIL is creating opportunities,” he explains. “ ere are many students who maybe don’t even have an opportunity to go home over the holidays” because they can't a ord to. “With NIL, maybe now they have money to go home or to put gas in their car, maybe a little more comfortable living.”

Also consider the athletes outside of the higher-pro le sports of football and basketball.

“Most of these athletes are not on full-ride scholarships,” Garner adds, noting that NIL earnings can o set the cost of books and “a lot of things people take for granted.”

Long past due

No doubt there’s money to make via NIL, which at its heart addresses the question of fairness. NIL’s most vocal proponents — many of them former college athletes — say that college athletic programs and college athletics as an industry have earned billions of dollars on television contracts, corporate sponsorships, bowl game proceeds, and myriad other revenue streams.

at revenue includes the sale of jerseys and merchandise featuring the name, image, and likeness of their athletes who are the ones producing the product that generates bidding wars among broadcast outlets.

receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars and a vehicle. e NCAA also levied harsh penalties on USC. Fast-forward to September 2023, Bush wants his Heisman Trophy back, and he’s suing the NCAA for defamation.

(Incidentally, current USC and reigning Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams signed a massive NIL deal this past April with Neutrogena.)

ere’s a saying among college sports fans and commentators that, for many reasons, there’s one thing worse than politics or religion to bring up at a family holiday meal: e NCAA. Individual states — at least 30 and counting at this point — had to enact NIL legislation because when the NCAA ruled in July 2021 that student-athletes were now permitted to receive NIL compensation, that decision did not come with rules and regulations.

Meanwhile, Congress has waded into the NIL picture with rumblings that the feds may act, because the NCAA appears no closer to providing uniform, consistent guidance.

“ e fact that they failed to do this is not very surprising,” says Rowden. “We knew it was going to be kind of the wild, wild west at the beginning when you don’t have consistent guidance from the NCAA — which we still don’t have.” CBT

Protecting

the

athletes Rowden says he’s con dent that Missouri’s NIL law and the processes set up for collectives and athletic departments protect student-athletes from exploitation.

“It certainly is a ash point in college athletics,” he says. “I think it’s going to be a net positive, but you’re going to have some growing pains along the way.”

Garner believes that as the public better understands NIL — what it is and what it is not — the issue of what’s best and what’s most fair for student-athletes will be clearer to the public. And that means not letting the conversation get sidetracked by the rare seven- gure deals.

“ is is long past due,” says Brandon Lee, former Mizzou football player and now the assistant athletic director overseeing the university’s NIL matters. “We’re still ironing out all the wrinkles. But I’m happy that student-athletes are nally able to take part in a program that provides a fair platform for all students.”

One downside of NIL is reckoning with the past and the harsh penalties the NCAA has meted out over the years against athletes and athletic programs that ran afoul of nancial dealings that are now legal. e shining star for that reckoning is Reggie Bush, former USC running back, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2005 but relinquished the trophy in 2010 following a years-long NCAA investigation that determined Bush was ineligible as of 2004 for

CEO

Bowers, Director of Marketing and Content lbowers@everytruetiger.org

An Industry Advantage: Prioritizing Workplace Well-Being

BY MATHEW GASS, LCSW

IN TODAY’S DYNAMIC AND FAST-PACED WORK ENVIRONMENTS, employee well-being and mental health have emerged as critical factors in achieving success and sustaining productivity. While we’ve long understood the importance of physical health in the workplace, it’s time to embrace a holistic approach that encompasses both the body and the mind.

As a leader of a community mental health center, with credentials as a licensed clinical social worker, I want to underscore the importance of destigmatizing mental health at our places of work. Addressing mental health issues among employees is not only the responsible thing to do, but also a strategic advantage for organizations.

One of the top reasons an organization has lost workdays is related to mental health. In fact, the World Health Organization reports that globally an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety at a cost of $1 trillion in lost productivity. So, it really behooves us to nd ways to invest in our co-workers’ health.

Here are ve things I would encourage anyone involved with shaping well-being in their workplace to consider.

1. PHYSICAL HEALTH

Companies are increasingly o ering wellness programs and incentives for maintaining good physical health. After all, a healthy body is often the foundation for a healthy mind.

2. WORK-LIFE INTEGRATION

Striking the right balance between work and personal life is paramount. Look at policies to accommodate exible work arrangements and time o . is helps reduce stress and burnout, promoting overall well-being.

3. MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

Access to mental health resources is crucial. Companies are implementing employee assistance programs (EAPs), providing counseling services, and training managers to identify and address mental health concerns.

4. TRAINING AND EDUCATION

Building mental health literacy is essential. Workplaces can host workshops and provide resources to educate employees about stress management, resilience, and self-care techniques.

5. LEADERSHIP COMMITMENT

Leaders play a pivotal role in setting the tone for workplace well-being. Executives are increasingly vocal about their support for mental health initiatives. Openness about their own challenges, when applicable, normalizes the conversation and encourages employees to seek help when needed.

Prioritizing a culture of well-being fosters employees who are more engaged, creative, and productive. ey tend to collaborate better with colleagues, solve problems more eciently, and demonstrate greater resilience in the face of challenges. In essence, investing in the mental well-being of employees is a strategic move for any organization aiming to achieve long-term success.

I am reminded of my colleague Dr. Shelly Farnan, psychologist and vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Brightli, who advocates for us to take a holistic approach to wellness in the workplace. at is, in addition to physical health, consider emotional, mental, and social health.

e era of prioritizing mental health and well-being in the workplace is here. Employers who proactively engage in employee well-being will build a healthy workplace and get the best from their teams. CBT

Mat Gass, LCSW, is the president of Brightli’s Central Region (Burrell Behavioral Health, Preferred Family Healthcare, Clarity Healthcare).

Chamber Benefit Plan Offers Savings For Small Businesses

BY MATT M C CORMICK

WHEN I SPEAK WITH OUR members about the challenges they face in the rising cost of doing business, one factor is consistent across businesses large and small, private and nonpro t – the cost of employer-sponsored healthcare is enormous and rising at a shocking pace.

e ability to o er healthcare bene ts can be a critical recruiting and retention tool for

business owners, and as employers face more sta ng challenges than ever, the competition for employees is erce. However, the high cost of most plans puts this bene t out of reach for many small businesses.

Our Chamber is proud to partner with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce & Industry to o er the Chamber Bene t Plan to all our member businesses. By acting as one entity, the Missouri Chamber is able to negotiate for competitive rates for insurance as if it were one large business with many employees and pass those opportunities on to small businesses around the state. e Chamber Bene t Plan o ers several plan options to meet your organization’s needs and can be purchased by any Chamber member in good standing with two to 50 employees. e business must also be domiciled in Missouri to be eligible.

e Chamber Bene t Plan o ers employers the opportunity to save money over purchasing a plan as an individual buyer and gives small businesses for whom healthcare bene ts might not be an option the opportunity to attract

and retain great employees because they can now provide this important bene t. If you’re a Chamber member and you haven’t investigated the Chamber Benet Plan, it’s worth looking to see if this solution could be right for your business. You can learn more about plans and bene ts o ered on the Missouri Chamber’s website, mochamber.com, and if you’re not a Chamber member, let’s chat!

Reach out to Matthew Rogers, our director of membership, for information about joining the Chamber and accessing this amazing membership bene t. CBT

From mochamber.com/ membership/missourichamber-bene t-plan:

» Must have 2–50 eligible employees enrolled in your medical plan

» Must be domiciled in Missouri

» Must be in good standing with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry or your local participating chamber that satis es the Missouri Department of Insurance requirements

Matt McCormick is the president and CEO of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce.

What’s Going Up?

BY JODIE JACKSON JR

ONE-HUNDRED AND FIFTY-THREE permits for new roofs and six permits for new townhouses in the East Campus neighborhood were issued by Columbia’s building and site development o ce in August.

e roo ng permits totaled $5.37 million in valuation. Overall, the building and site development o ce issued 220 permits with a valuation of $33.79 million. e valuation includes a $13.53 million commercial addition — construction of new space and renovations at Columbia Independent School.

In addition, 20 permits were issued for single family residential homes, totaling $8 million in valuation.

Coil Construction is the contractor for the Columbia Independent School building addition at 1801 N. Stadium Blvd. COMO Business Times reported in July that permits for land disturbance, footings, and other pre-build work had been approved earlier and that work was under way. e building permit was issued on August 29, listing a valuation of $13.53 million, which is $3.7 million less than the amount listed on the previous permits.

Other highlights of the August 2023 building permit report:

Six Townhouses

Six townhouses, each valued at $327,210, are set for construction at 1617 University Avenue in Fyfer’s Subdivision, just east of Boone Hospital. Apartments No. 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, and 106 are included in the permit that lists “owner contractor” for the construction. e total valuation of the six townhouses is $1.86 million.

Broadway Business Park Court

Starr Construction Management LLC is the contractor for a project at 3401 Broadway Business Park Court, Suite 213, with a total valuation of $250,000. e building permit for commercial alterations will add seven o ces and a lobby encompassing 7,954 square feet.

Famous Footwear

A Famous Footwear store will be located between Sam’s Club and Subway at 27 Conley Road, Suite 112. e $180,000 project is an

Construction has begun on an addition to Columbia Independent School. This view from the school’s roof on September 21 faces north. Coil Construction is the general contractor.

interior improvement of 4,447 square feet. Atlas Building Group is the contractor; the Kroenke Group owns the property. (Eleven permits for commercial alterations, totaling $2.16 million, were issued in August.)

Club Carwash

Coil Construction continues to build Club Carwash facilities, with the latest slated to be built at 5424 Clark Lane. e ground-up carwash project will have 5,033 square feet and a valuation of $911,878.

• e Columbia Country Club is getting a new pool house at 2220 Country Club Drive. Little Dixie Construction is the contractor. e project has a valuation of $367,392.

• Anderson Homes is building a spacious, 6,097-square-foot single family residence at Breckenridge on Briar Rose Court. e valuation is $769,284.

• Anderson Homes is also renovating an existing space into a new liquor store at 2900 Trimble Road, Suite 107. e $200,000 renovation will cover 2,864 square feet.

• Little Dixie Construction is the contractor for a permit for interior alteration of an existing o ce building at 3050 I-70 Drive SE, to update nishes and create new workspace. e project covers 7,074 square feet and has a valuation of $353,700.

• Seven permits for decks were approved in August. ose projects have a total valuation of $139,602. CBT

Photos by Jodie Jackson Jr

A Growing Impact

Recreational marijuana purchases now subject to selective sales tax in Columbia.

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN

Beginning October 1, purchases of recreational marijuana became more costly in Columbia as the city began to collect an additional 3 percent selective sales tax on those purchases. While the additional sales tax is new, the ability for the city to collect the tax was set in motion in November 2022.

During the November 2022 statewide elec- tion, Missouri voters approved an amendment to the state’s constitution that made the use and sale of recreational or adult use marijuana legal in Missouri for adults over the age of 21. e amendment placed a 6 percent state sales tax on purchases of recreational marijuana and authorized local governments to add a 3 percent sales tax if approved by a vote of the public.

In January 2023, the Columbia City Council unanimously voted to place the additional 3 percent sales tax on recreational marijuana on the April 4 municipal election ballot. On April 4, 2023, Columbia voters passed the the proposed recreational marijuana tax measures, with 68 percent approval. ( e outcome for Proposition 1 was 12,183 “yes” votes to 5,778 “no” votes.)

While Columbia voters were voting on the selective sales tax question in April, the April ballot also included recreational marijuana sales tax questions for voters in Boone County, as well as more than 100 other municipalities around the state, including Centralia, Sturgeon, Hallsville, and Ashland. e Boone County tax passed overwhelming with 18,019 “yes” votes and 8,462

Prior to October 1, recreational marijuana was taxed at 7.975 percent, the same sales tax collected on all goods purchased in, or for delivery to the city of Columbia, explains Matthew Lue, the city’s director of nance.

“With the segmented tax regime on marijuana, this may come to a total sales tax revenue of approximately $1 million to the city of Columbia for fiscal year 2024.”

—MATTHEW LUE Director of Finance, City of Columbia

Lue provided a breakdown of the 7.975 percent sales tax: the city of Columbia receives 2 percent, 4.225 percent goes to the state of Missouri, and 1.75 percent goes to Boone County. e state currently collects an additional 6 percent on purchases of recreational marijuana in Missouri.

With the approval of the ballot initiative, the city now collects the standard 2 percent local sales tax as well as the additional 3 percent selective sales tax on recreational marijuana. It’s important to note that while medical marijuana is subject to local sales tax, it is not subject to the additional selective sales tax.

While recreational marijuana sales and the selective sales tax are new for Columbia, cities around the country have approved similar measures in recent years. Information from the city of Columbia shows that the selective sales tax for Columbia is comparable to other cities around the United States. Examples

5,778

votes

include Portland, Oregon, East St. Louis, Missouri, and Spring eld, Illinois, which all collect a 3 percent recreational marijuana sales tax, and Boulder, Colorado, which collects 3.5 percent.

How Much Additional Revenue Will Be Created?

As recreational marijuana has only been legal in Missouri for a short time, it’s di cult to anticipate the annual sales tax revenue that will result. However, Columbia o cials presented three scenarios for potential sales tax revenue for scal year 2024 on its the city's website.

e city estimates that the lowest estimate for sales tax revenue is $391,580 and the medium estimate is $626,528, while the highest estimate is $1,174,740. ough it’s too early to know exactly how the additional 3 percent tax will affect recreational marijuana sales in Columbia, other cities in the country have

implemented similar taxes, and those results have guided the city’s thinking. For instance, according to Columbia ocials, Colorado was one of the rst states in the nation to legalize the sale of recreational marijuana. e city of Boulder, Colorado collects a 3.86 percent sales tax on all medical and recreational cannabis products, along with an additional 3.5 percent selective sales tax on recreational cannabis.

Because Boulder and Columbia have many commonalities — they’re similar in size and both are home to large universities — trends in cannabis sales tax revenue were used to predict how much revenue a 3 percent selective sales tax in Columbia may generate.

“In Boulder, Colorado, sales tax revenue on recreational marijuana quickly surpassed revenue from medical marijuana and, while there are some important di erences, it is not unreasonable to assume a

RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA TAX VOTE OUTCOME

similar trend may occur in Columbia,” Lue says. “Using Boulder as reference, an initial increase of 80 percent in the total demand for cannabis products was forecasted as the median estimate scenario for Columbia. With the segmented tax regime on marijuana, this may come to a total sales tax revenue of approximately $1 million to the city of Columbia for scal year 2024.”

Where Does the Money Go?

ough the city can’t say exactly how much revenue will be generated, it knows exactly how the additional funds will be used to bene t the residents of Columbia.

“Once the city begins collecting the additional tax, the funds will be allocated to the city's general fund activities,” Lue says. “ e general fund includes departments such as police and re, the health department, community development, public works, parks, and other administrative departments.”

Information from the city shows that the general fund is broken down as follows: 57 percent to public safety, 14 percent to administrative support, 10 percent to health and environment, seven percent to parks, six percent to transportation and six percent to capital improvements.

How Will Tax Affect Sales?

After Colorado legalized recreational marijuana in November 2012, Boulder saw a 3.5-fold marijuana-related sales tax increase between 2013 and 2014. Columbia anticipates a lower growth rate, and it provides three estimates for the increase in demand for marijuana for the 2024

scal year — the lowest estimate is a 50 percent increase in demand, the medium estimate is an 80 percent increase in demand, and the highest estimate is a 150 percent increase in demand.

Although he says he can’t predict how the additional sales tax will a ect sales volume at Green Releaf Marijuana Dispensary at 204 E. Broadway, manager Gunner Millar says demand for recreational marijuana is high. e shop serves up to 900 customers per day, which includes medical and recreational customers.

“It’s probably one of the busier dispensaries I’ve ever been to,” Millar says.

While weekends typically have a higher volume of clients, Millar estimates that Green Releaf serves at least 100 customers per day.

While Columbia residents and government o cials watch and wait to see how the additional sales tax on recreational marijuana translates into dollars for the city, the predictions reveal that the payo could be substantial.

“If trends similar to that of Boulder continue in years beyond scal year 2024, then cannabis-related sales tax revenue could grow to around $1.5 to $2 million by scal year 2028,” Lue says.

e voter-approved Proposition 1 stipulated that the additional sales tax would go into the city's general fund, which is available for funding the areas of public safety, administrative support, health and environment, parks, transportation, and capital improvements. CBT

420 Mary Jane Doe

Main Street Summit

This festival-like business conference offers diverse learning experiences for local professionals.

BY JODIE JACKSON JR

Many of us are familiar with the task of choosing which workshop or breakout session to attend at a business conference. But what about choosing your own “adventure?”

at’s the vernacular and edgy attitude behind the high-energy plans for the Main Street Summit, set for November 8 and 9 in Columbia. Organizers are billing the event as a “festival” for small to medium-size businesses, a target that includes businesses with fewer than 10 or up to 500 employees.

Seventy-eight speakers are already lined up to give attendees an impressive array of expertise, advice, and encouragement. e speaker roster is expected to reach or surpass 100.

“ ere will be a lot of sessions happening, similar to a lm or music festival,” says organizer Clayton Dorge. “You pick and choose, hit the highlights on the main stage, choose the adventure of what topics are most pressing to you. It’s a large mixture of industry experts.”

Main Street Summit is produced by the same team that has put on the invitation-only Capital Camp for ve years in Columbia. While that exclusive conference is geared more toward investors, Main Street Summit is a sort of all-comers conference speci cally focused on small to medium-sized businesses. ere are still sessions zeroed in on investing in or owning a business, but also sessions on recruiting and developing talent, sales and marketing, and industry-speci c topics ranging from healthcare, media, aerospace, and nance to manufacturing, construction, oil and gas, retail, and technology.

A of range sessions in expertise levels from introductory to industry expert, featuring interviews, debates, and workshops will occur across more than 10 stages throughout Columbia.

“Obviously we’re big fans of Columbia and bringing people to our own backyard,” Dorge explains. “ is event is built with business owners and operators in mind;

Speakers and presenters include:

WADE FOSTER , founder and CEO, Zapier

TRACY BRITT COOL, co-founder, Kanbrick

SCOTT HARRISON , founder, Charity: Water

JESSE PUJJI, founder, Gateway

IAN CASSEL, founder, MicroCapClub

JOHN GARRETT, CEO, Community Impact

DAVID PERELL, founder, Write of Passage

BRENT BESHORE, CEO and founder, Permanent Equity

JOHN FIORENTINO , inventor, Gravity Blanket

JORDAN STREBECK , co-founder, Fortress Energy

MICHAEL CURRY , co-chairman, Apex Physics Partners

MITCHELL BALDRIDGE , owner, Baldridge Financial

JESSE BODINE , co-founder, Scout & Nimble

TREVOR ROSENTHAL, MLB all-star pitcher

people who are in the trenches every day, who know the ups and downs of running a business.”

Local shops, larger businesses, smaller businesses, and entrepreneurs will all nd value in the event, says co-organizer Laurie Oberweather, a Kansas City native who came to Columbia to attend the University of Missouri in 2007. She wound up graduating from Columbia College and never left town.

“I’ve had so much help from the community,” she explains, noting that as many as 800 people are expected to attend. Dorge’s small team has partnered with local hotels for lodging. e price of attendance ranges from $500 for a “classic” pass, to $1,500 for a “ agship” pass, and $5,000 for an “all-in” pass. Each pass level has its own perks and bene ts, from access to e Atrium — which will be grand central and an exclusive gathering spot for the conference — to premium seating, downtown lodging, and 24/7 concierge service.

If the cost prompts a double-take, Dorge is quick to point out that Main Street Summit is unlike any typical business conference. And instead of going to one or more conferences or sending employees or managers to multiple conferences, Main Street Summit is the one-stop conference to attend, he says, adding, “You don’t have to go to multiple conferences. ey can just come down the street.”

Dorge continues, “It’s the perfect way to learn and spend your time with other business owners if you’re facing speci c challenges, you want to level up, grow — this is going to be the best use of that time and money in terms of learning the most and having those conversations with others who are going through the same things.” Some of those attendees will be the award-winning authors, speakers, and business owners with connections to the U.S. and international business communities, and leaders who have thrived with “decision-making in high-pressure situations,” he adds.

Dorge also points out the festival approach and expecting “a ton of fun” with evening events, local breweries, restaurants, and concert venues.

“We greatly respect and admire what True/False FIlm Fest has built here in Columbia,” he explains, noting that the organizing team has worked with the True/False founders to try and apply their approach “to create some version of that for the business world and business-related topics. We’re trying to lean into them as much as possible. We want to do the exact same thing.”

Dorge, a Mizzou graduate who was born and raised in Je erson City, says there are still sponsorship opportunities for businesses or individuals who want to be part of Main Street Summit.

“If you have a company or service that would be valuable, we have the perfect platform to show that o ,” he says.

Oberweather is also hopeful that companies and individuals who have shifted to remote or hybrid work environments will take advantage of the connection opportunities at the summit.

“ ere’s plenty for them to learn from,” she adds. “It’s really for the entire small business ecosystem. ere will be something for everyone.” CBT

New Business Licenses

Morrison Music LLC 111 E. Walnut St. Sale and rental of musical instruments, sales of accessories, repair, and lessons.

Robyn Star Cathcart

7333 Sella Ct. Star C Empowerment LLC - DBA

Robyn Star Cathcart – selling.

Professional Technologies

1105 Lakeview Ave.

Professional services.

Two Beauties

2101 Corona Rd.

Hair styling, coloring, waxing, cutting services.

Merry Maids

3601 Buttonwood Drive

Residential cleaning service.

Boone and Bear

111 Kipling Way

Game design and sales.

Fibersmith Software Solutions LLC

204 Austin Ave.

Hoot Design Company

1007 N. College Ave.

Creative branding agency.

Focus on Learning Center

3610 Buttonwood Dr.

Education center for academic improvement.

The Key

1311 Hickam Dr. Youth group services.

Towne Plaza Hair Studio

200 S. Old 63 Hair salon.

Resilience Life Coaching

2001 Holly Ave. Coaching services.

CG Ace Contracting

313 Granada Blvd.

Fix fences, decks, exterior maintenance, landscape work.

Remedy Barber & Company

1007 N. College Ave. Men’s grooming.

Gentle Hands Home Care

2808 Jacobs Pl. Home health care services.

Skinfinity Studio

2101 Corona Rd.

Esthetician business. O ering skincare and waxing services.

Mids Vintage

2300 Bernadette Dr. Retail.

SERVPRO of Columbia

2201 Vandiver Dr. Provide re, water, mold cleanup, repair damaged properties after remediation.

Columbia Manor Health and Rehab

2012 E. Nifong Blvd.

Turners Professional Janitorial Service

2018 Hazelwood Dr. Cleaning service.

A meeting space solution.

New Business Licenses

Jones Design Co LLC

6208 Bent Grass Way

Residential and commercial remodeling.

Division-D

709 Fay St. Online advertising agency Second location.

Best In Housekeeping LLC

10751 E. North La Vista Dr. Residential and commercial in housekeeping services.

Perfect Brow Bar

2300 Bernadette Dr. Eyebrow threading salon.

Get Faded

2101 Corona Rd. Salon o ering beauty, barbering and waxing services.

Missouri Roofing

5250 W. Gillespie Bridge Rd. New construction and remodeling.

Lake George Senior Living 5000 E. Richland Rd. Assisted living facility.

Triflemore, LLC

7 McBaine Ave.

Alpha Elite Contracting LLC 111 W. Mauller Rd.

Hey Neighbor

701 Oak St. Home maintenance company.

RBRE Group & Russell

Boyt Real Estate Group

609 N. West Blvd.

Project management related to residential real estate construction and remodeling.

Columbia Sneaker Exchange, LLC

901 Rollins St.

Neurosoothe Massage Therapy

1000 N. College Ave. Massage therapy.

Locked Shut Music LLC 6301 S. Old Village Band.

The Wash House 1804 Paris Rd. Coin operated laundry.

Brand New You Salon and Barber Shop, LLC 1809 Vandiver Dr. Salon.

Barrie Hairy Beauty Shop LLC 911 E. Broadway Salon.

Tenley’s Farm & Bakery 14 Business Loop 70 E Bakery.

Andy’s Appliance Repair 303 N. Stadium Blvd.

Colour Alchemy

2101 Corona Rd. Salon. CBT

Deeds of Trust

Worth at least $785,000.

$1,275,000,000

New TKG-Storage Mart

Partners Portfolio LLC

Citi Real Estate Funding Inc.

LT 4E Centre West O ce & Storage

$38,000,000

Broadway Lodging LLC

Enterprise Bank & Trust LT 1 Ditter Subdivision

$32,954,925

Broadway Lodging LLC

Enterprise Bank & Trust LT 3 Ditter Subdivision

$4,200,000

Erisman, Kevin & Amanda & Richard & Beatrice Revocable Trust Agreement

Equitable Financial Life Insurance Co.

STR 11-50-11 //SW

$2,818,000

Douglas, Larry D. Trustee

Exchange Bank of Missouri

STR 21-50-11 //SW

$2,750,000

Box & Locks Self Storage

Hanover Columbia MO LLC

South Ottumwa Savings Bank

LT 5A Hanover Plaza Plat 6-A

$1,675,000

AMW Buttonwood LLC

Commerce Bank

LT 3A Hyde Park South Plat 3

$1,403,500

Summerhays, Benjamin J. Trustee

e Bank of Missouri

LT 111 Clear Creek Estates Plat No 1

$1,000,000

Rhodes Development Company LLC

e Bank of Missouri

LT 7 Westbury Village

$900,000

Landreneau, Joshua Paul Cadence Bank

LT 45 ornbrook Plat No 1

$849,575

Blair Construction LLC

Commercial Trust Company of Fayette

LT 215 Liberty Landing North Plat 2

$845,770

Ninichuck, Bryan

Flat Branch Mortgage Inc.

STR 34-48-13 /W/SW AC 15

$800,000

Mike Messer Agency LLC e Bank of Missouri

LT 6 Mid Missouri Industrial Park Blk 2 PT LTs C&D

Mike Messer Agency LLC e Bank of Missouri

LT 502 Mid Missouri Industrial Park Plat 5

Richland Olivet Farm LLC

First State Community Bank

STR 14-48-12 //NE SUR BK/PG: 5774/124 AC 20.39 FF Tract 2

MTS & RLS Revocable Trust

First State Community Bank

LT 308 Old Hawthorne Plat No 3

$785,000

Noordsy, Shawn omas e Central Trust Bank

STR 26-50-12 /N/SW SUR BK/PG: 5632/156 AC 20.06

FF Tract 2 CBT