COMO | May 2022

MAY 2022 | T HE FA MI LY I S S U E | A PU B L ICATION OF TH E B U SIN E SS TIM E S H OL D IN G S

ED BRENT & YANGMALI SAHADEV RAI

THE

F A M I LY ISSUE

SHOWCASING TALENTED CONDUCTORS FROM ALL OVER THE NATION Symphony in Motion Wednesday, June 15 | Missouri Theater featuring guest Conductor Emeritus Kirk Trevor

Stars, Stripes, and Symphony Saturday, July 2 | Missouri Theater featuring conductor candidate Michelle Di Russo

Singing in the Key of Freedom Saturday, June 18 | Missouri Theater featuring guest conductor Dr. Brandon A. Boyd

Marie Osmond with The Missouri Symphony Wednesday, July 6 | Ozark Amphitheater featuring selections from her new album Unexpected

Laments, Romance, and Dreams Wednesday, June 22 | Missouri Theater featuring conductor candidate Wilbur Lin

Chamber Series: Made in America Thursday, July 7 | Whitmore Recital Hall

Show-Me America hosted by Mister MOSY Saturday, June 25 | Stephens Lake Amphitheater featuring conductor candidate Wilbur Lin The New World and Beyond Wednesday, June 29 | Missouri Theater featuring conductor candidate Michelle Di Russo Chamber Series: Mozart in Miniature Thursday, June 30 | Whitmore Recital Hall

Femmes de légende (Women of Legend) Saturday, July 9 | Missouri Theater featuring conductor candidate Chelsea Gallo An Uncommon Enigma Wednesday, July 13 | Missouri Theater featuring conductor candidate Darwin Aquino Back to Broadway!

Saturday, July 16 | Missouri Theater featuring conductor candidate Darwin Aquino

theMOSY.org | 573.882.3781 PURCHASE TICKETS HERE STARTING MAY 9TH 

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Every month, we award a deserving high school senior with a $2,500 scholarship.

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Letter from the Publisher

Well, that didn’t go as planned.

A

s I’m sure many of you know by now, I recently ran for city council in my beloved Columbia’s fourth ward and was defeated by Nick Foster by about 1,400 votes.

I have a lot of emotions surrounding this last six months. I am grateful for my team at work for allowing me the space to pursue this. I am grateful for my family who encouraged me and sacrificed time with me so I could attend forums, council meetings, and canvas neighborhoods in the ward. I am grateful for the many people who believed in me personally and the shared vision of our city to the point they invested their money and time into my campaign. I am grateful for the people who have disagreed with me and helped inform me as they have sharpened me as a person.

I am also really frustrated — not as a woman scorned but as an optimist and idealist. I am frustrated that we, as a city, celebrated a record high 23% voter turnout in April municipal elections which should only scream apathy at us and not be celebrated. I am frustrated that trash overshadowed major issues we have as a city that took not only a back seat but were left back on the side of the road during this race. Topics like increasing crime, race and equity issues, an alarmingly understaffed city workforce including police and fi re, deferred maintenance on infrastructure costing us millions of dollars, and a power grid that was supposed to be upgraded years ago and just wasn’t were all completely ignored. Sure, the questions were politely asked in forums with one minute to outline solutions to these complex problems, but the media did not dig in and convey any of this to the community.

(I was not able to legally use COMO Magazine per Missouri election ethics law as long as I was an active candidate.)

“I am frustrated that we, as a city, celebrated a record high 23% voter turnout in April municipal elections which should only scream apathy at us and not be celebrated.”

Th is isn’t the end for me and my involvement with council. I will use my resources to serve in the best way I can — by using my pen and my 30,000 readers. I will be sharing what I’ve learned with all of Columbia so that a lack of awareness and education can become less of an excuse for council to be able to get by without doing their jobs. I will hold this council accountable for the things I heard them promise our community. I will give them the opportunity to be a part of it, and I will do it without them if they decline to participate.

In closing, I feel like my steps were led to this and through this, so I trust that will remain the case. Thank you to everyone involved and know that I love you and, as always, I love COMO.

our CREATIVE DIRECTOR A NOTE from

Adding Eight Paws Recently, we added two puppies to our family. Fred and George, mischevious brothers who make us laugh every day. They’re cute.

They’re cuddly. They’re (sometimes) stinky. And we love them. My boys (5 and 7) are learning new responsibilities both in relation to caring for the pups, but also in caring for themselves and their belongings. They’re learning new communication skills. They’re learning boundaries. They’re learning how to clean up messes.

And they’re also learning how to love in a new way. I can’t wait to watch all four of them grow up together. Bringing a new being into your family can be difficult — no matter how many paws or feet they have — the family dynamic changes, hopefully for the better.

In our case, more paws equals more love. To read more about furry family members check out our photo director’s story on page 21.

ON THE COVER Local entrepreneurs Ed Brent and Yangmali Sahadev Rai Photo by Keith Borgmeyer M AY 202 2 | TH E FAM I LY I S S U E | A PU B LI CATI ON OF TH E BUSI N ESS T I MES H O LD I N GS

ED BRENT & YANGMALI SAHADEV RAI

THE

ERICA PEFFERMAN PUBLISHER

F A M I LY ISSUE

COMOMAG.COM

13

ADJUSTING

YO U R H E A LT H IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

President Erica Pefferman

Director of Operations Amy Ferrari

Erica@comomag.com

Amy@comomag.com

EDITORIAL Publisher | Erica Pefferman Erica@comomag.com

Editor | Kim Ambra Kim@comomag.com

Copy Editor | Josh Mosley

DESIGN Creative Director | Kate Morrow Kate@comomag.com

Photo Director | Sadie Thibodeaux Sadie@comomag.com

Senior Designer | Jordan Watts

MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES Account Executive | Charles Bruce Charles@comomag.com

OUR MISSION

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

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SUBSCRIPTIONS CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Keith Borgmeyer, Casey Buckman, Anthony Jinson, Sadie Thibodeaux

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Corin Cesaric, Lauren Sable Freiman, Jules Graebner, Amanda Long, Mary Caitlyn Polovich, Hannah Robertson, Michelle Terhune, Jennifer Truesdale

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

COMO is published every month by Business Times Holdings, LLC. Copyright Business Times Holdings, LLC 2022. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

O N TH EME

What is your favorite family activity?

Dr. Ashley Emel

DC, CACCP, Webster Certified

Dr. Jennifer Sutherland DC, FASA, Webster Certified

2516 Forum Blvd. #102 (573) 445-4444 compass-chiropractic.com 14

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Kim Ambra Editor My favorite family “activities” are the days that involve all of my sisters, and all of our kids, at our mom and dad’s house. With the kids running around playing, and the smell of something good cooking in the kitchen, it is very loud and very busy.

The togetherness of it makes my heart very full and happy!

JJ Carlson Director of Web Development Cohen and I love to walk our dogs and go swimming, and at home we enjoy playing “Monster,” which is basically wrestling with tickling. We also love creative time, which can include reading, cooking, drawing, and writing letters to friends.

Laura Winkler Account Manager

Kate Morrow Creative Director

Our favorite family activity is exploring the outdoors. We enjoy wandering through wooded areas and picking flowers, looking under rocks for slugs, and catching butterflies. My children are little insect enthusiasts.

I don’t know if this counts as an activity or just a daily routine, but we read together every night before bed. It’s one of my favorite things in the world, being together in the stillness of the evening, calmly reading a story, sharing thoughts about what we’ve read, or seeing them work out what might happen next.

I hope they remember these nights together, because I know I will.

Letter from the Editor

I

On Family

’m not sure who decided it was smart to give me a full page to share my thoughts — but here we go! My fi rst editor’s letter!

Starting with the family issue is perfect. Why? Because family is everything to me! Let me start by telling you a bit about myself.

I have lived in COMO my whole life.

Hickman High School grad, Class of 99’ — GO KEWPS! My kids are my three greatest blessings. My oldest, Taylor, is 22 and is currently a grad student at Missouri State University working on her Master’s in Occupational Therapy.

My one-and-only son is 19 and finishing up his freshman year, also at Missouri State University, where he is pursuing a degree in communication and a minor in nonprofit management. The world is this kid’s oyster! Rounding out the bunch is Kaitlyn, who is 15 and about to wrap up her freshman year at Hallsville High School. T-minus three months until this one can drive — eeek!

I have been blessed with the most loving and supportive parents, Ken and Sherry Colwell, who are about to celebrate 50 years of marriage. My dad is the luckiest guy in the world to live in a house of all women, where I was the second of his four daughters! My sisters Carissa, Kelley, and Kathryn have been my built-in best

Photo by Tanya Aldridge

friends since birth. I have loads of nieces and nephews who all refer to me as “Aunt KiKi.” I am the one that never says no to them and spoils them rotten before sending them home! Family gatherings are busy and loud, but I wouldn’t trade them for the world.

I say all of that so I can say this: Family is truly one of our greatest blessings. It might look different for everyone; some are blood related, some are not. The makeup of every family is different and unique. I hope each and everyone of you has found a group of people who love, support, and encourage you every day of the week. And if you haven’t, we are so fortunate to be a part of an awesome and welcoming community that is overflowing with opportunities to build one of your own.

Get involved! Find your people! And once you find them, hang on to them.

I would love to hear from you! What should we talk about in upcoming issues?

Feel free to share, kim@comomag.com.

“Family — We may not have it all together, but together we have it all.”

— UNKNOWN

XO,

KIM AMBRA EDITOR

COMOMAG.COM

15

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IN THIS ISSUE

85

P.Y.S.K. Amanda Jacobs, Owner and Asset Manager, Jacobs Propery Managment

MAY The Family Issue

88

13

51

85

Publisher’s Letter

FRIENDS & FAMILY The Advantage of a Head Start

PERSON YOU SHOULD KNOW Amanda Jacobs

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

69

106

Today’s Decisions,

15 Editor's Letter

LIVING

COUPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

KIDS SAY THE DARNDEST THINGS

21

Tanner Ott & Mary Anderson

FEATURES

PET FRIENDLY The Purrfect Family

25 WELLNESS Aid to Cure the Baby Blues

WORKING

THE STUFF DREAMS ARE MADE OF

CLOSER LOOK

Burrell Behavioral

The City of Columbia’s Home

Health’s ONE program

Ownership Assistance

76

asks Columbia to help

Program and Community

save lives.

Land Trust help make them

75

BRIEFLY IN THE NEWS

HOMES Contemporary Luxury

79

GOURMET A Secret Family Recipe for Success

46 STYLE Vintage Design, Timeless Style

94

HOW TO SAVE A LIFE

26

42

55

Tomorrow’s Success

MOVERS & SHAKERS

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STRENGTH THROUGH STRUGGLE

HOPE, HEALING, & ADVOCACY

82

Three local families

How Court Appointed

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Caring Hearts, Hands, and Humans

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80 CELEBRATIONS

their lives.

Special Advocates are making an impact in the lives of children in foster care.

Nevaeh AKA: The Ball of Energy

When Nevaeh was just a few weeks old, doctors at Children’s Hospital discovered she had a severe condition causing food to go into her lungs.

Our pediatric aerodigestive team’s quick response not only spared her lungs from irreversible damage — it saved her life. Now, Nevaeh can just be Nevaeh. Learn more at muhealth.org/kids.

We help kids be kids.

Living

55

42

62

HOW TO SAVE A LIFE

A SECRET FAMILY RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

STRENGTH THROUGH STRUGGLE

Burrell Behavioral Health’s ONE program asks Columbia to help save lives.

Taking the time to enjoy a family meal at the Claysville Store in Hartsburg.

Three local families share how pediatric cancer has affected their lives.

EXPERTISE TO KEEP YOUR FURRY FRIENDS ACTIVE & THRIVING!

Your pet’s HEALTH and HAPPINESS is our priority.

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Living

PET FRIENDLY

The Purrfect Family One couple's choice to create a family of fur babies.

BY HANNAH ROBERTSON | PHOTOS BY SADIE THIBODEAUX

W

hen Alex Schwartz and Sadie Thibodeaux arrive home after a long day at work, they are greeted at the door by their six children. However, their children don’t regale them with tales from their days at school or show them an art project — they prefer to shower Alex and Sadie with purrs, wagging tails, and the occasional head boop. That’s because Alex and Sadie are proud parents, who have chosen “fur babies” over the traditional nuclear family.

Alex and Sadie met on Match.com nearly seven years ago, and have lived together for roughly five-and-a-half years. Having both grown up with animals, it has always been important to have a partner that shares the same love for them. It’s one of the first things they bonded over early in their relationship. “I

saw in his profile that he had two cats, and I was like ‘Check!’”

Sadie remembers.

When they first moved in together, Sadie had her two cats, Morrie and Maggie, and Alex came with his two, Andre and Jack. Throughout their relationship, they have owned eight animals together; seven cats ( Jack, Andre, Morrie, Maggie, Sammie, Jules, and Turk) and one dog (Charley). Like people, each of their pets has its own personality and preferences. For example, Maggie is like “Sadie’s shadow” and will walk around the house meowing until she finds her “mom” and Sammie is described as a “tiny, angry loner.” In many ways, they interact with each other like siblings. Turk, Alex and Sadie’s newest kitten, “terrorizes” Maggie, who wants nothing to do with him.

Photo by Lana Eklund of Art & Soul Photography COMOMAG.COM

21

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Living

Charley

Andre

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Jules

e Maggi

Turk

ie Samm

PET FRIENDLY

Turk joined the family just last year at the start of Alex and Sadie’s anniversary weekend, and the couple likes to think he adopted them. “It’s like he was meant to be here,” Sadie said, recalling the day they found him. Charley, their mini Australian Shepherd, was outside and began whining along the fence.

Sadie, who was watching, took a step stool out to get a peek at what was on the other side. There, she saw a tiny, orange tabby kitten staring back at her, “meowing its little head off.” Alex joined outside, and when he rounded the fence, Turk immediately beelined for him, crawled up his leg, and perched upon his shoulder. Just like that, despite having no present desire to have another cat, they were chosen.

Being pet parents comes much more naturally to the pair than having children of their own would, as neither has ever had the desire. Said Sadie, “I’ve never had that pull (to have children), but I do feel maternal, so I can have those experiences with animals instead.” Alex added, “People want to parent, instinctually, but it doesn’t have to be a human baby”. Their family has been fully supportive of their life decision, even referring to their pet children as their “grand-kitties and grand-doggy”.

One of the best things about pets is that they bring things we didn’t even know we were missing to our lives. Sadie felt this with Morrie especially, as he became her companion after her father passed. She picked him out with her mom at the Humane Society, and “he really filled a hole in my life.”

With that love and connection comes the worst part about having a pet — losing them. Both of Alex’s cats, Andre and Jack, have passed away. Andre was his mom’s cat and was only 10 weeks old when she passed away. Andre connected Alex to his late mother, making his eventual passing all the more difficult.

As painful as the loss of beloved pets can be, the joy they brought to their lives is worth it. “Despite losing them both, I wouldn’t change it,” Alex stated.

He went on to say, “Some people don’t feel that way about pets, the same way some people don’t feel strongly about children. But, even though they’re not from us, they genuinely feel like ours.”

COMOMAG.COM

23

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Living

Aid to Ease the Baby Blues

WELLNESS

Postpartum Support International looks to be a resource for new parents in Mid-Missouri.

BY JULES N. GRAEBNER

M

any claim that having a child is the most wonderful experience in the world. But once the congratulatory balloons deflate and the baby comes home, it might not seem that way. Many families struggle with the “baby blues,” and the CDC estimates that roughly 1 in 8 moms experience postpartum depression. It can be a major source of pain for moms and their families, but nonprofit organizations like Postpartum Support International (PSI) are working to destigmatize these feelings and give aid to families who need it.

“PSI is an organization that provides education, support, and awareness around perinatal mental health disorders [like] postpartum depression and anxiety,” says Patricia Howell, president of PSI’s Missouri chapter. “[We] also provide resources to professionals and individuals who are passionate in this area to get more comfortable supporting those who are struggling.”

It’s not for just moms, though. PSI also offers resources for dads, partners, grandparents, and more.

“It's hard to admit that you need help as a new parent, and PSI is just really trying to normalize that it's hard,” explains Megan Steen, a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional. "And that there's a lot of people that have the same struggles as you, and that there is help available.”

Patricia explains that she first got involved with PSI while working as a doula and childbirth educator. During her career, she noticed that her clients who struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety were passed between doctors and specialists, none of which were able to offer much help.

“I really wanted to do more to help families, to let them know what resources are out there and be able to access them in a timely manner. Th is is not something that can wait weeks, or even days. It’s not just the mom you're worried about, but the baby as well,” she says. “There’s a lack of providers in Missouri specifically trained to help families dealing with [perinatal disorders], which is another thing that I wanted to see us improve through our work at PSI.” With a background in mental health, Megan knew that there was a lack of resources available. But after losing a friend to postpartum psychosis, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

“I saw how easy it can be to really as a new mom kind of fall through the cracks,” she says. “I became really passionate about making sure that our healthcare communities destigmatize [this] and have these conversations … That's when I went through the certification myself and learned more about PSI, and then had the opportunity to get connected to the board.”

It’s not for just moms, though.

PSI also offers resources for dads, partners, grandparents, and more.

Right now, the Missouri chapter is working hard to get more healthcare professionals certified in Perinatal Mental Health so families can find support all around the state.

Still, help is available at a moment’s notice by calling the PSI warmline at 1-800-944-4773.

“People ask, ‘what can I do just to help [my] daughter or my friend that might be going through this?’” Patricia says.

“I just say — if you know a new parent, you know — everybody is excited to ask about the baby. Just remember to ask the the parents how they are doing. Have the PSI warmline ready to give them if they need help.”

COMOMAG.COM

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26

MAY 2022

Luxury Living

HOMES

CONTEMPORARY

BY JENNIFER TRUESDALE

PHOTOS BY KEITH BORGMEYER

Ed Brent and Yangmali Sahadev Rai’s ultra-modern home in central CoMo is a smart spot with gadgets galore.

A

t the southeast corner of West Broadway and Stadium is a 4-acre estate with two enormous homes, addressed at 100 and 111 West Briarwood. Ed Brent and Yangmali Sahadev Rai co-own and rent out the Briarwood Estates properties through Airbnb, and the two homes couldn’t be more different.

The house at 100 West Briarwood is a historic 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom property that the pair completely renovated in 2019 for the sole purpose of renting out year-round (it can host up to 12). The 111 West Briarwood home is, by significant contrast, a new build finished in 2021 that exemplifies energy efficiency, minimalistic decor, and the ultimate in modern living. It also has 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, and can accommodate up to 11 guests.

Ed has owned the estate since 1981, and it took almost a year to clear the land before the 111 property could be built.

Ed and Yang each are successful entrepreneurs who have known each other and worked together for years. Ed is originally from Belton, and he studied physics at MU before switching gears to get his master’s and Ph.D. in sociology. He did his post-doctoral work in artificial intelligence before opening up Ideaworks, a software company that creates AI programs to be used in social sciences. Considered a pioneer in this field, Ed was a sociology professor at MU for more than 40 years.

COMOMAG.COM

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Living

28

HOMES

MAY 2022

Living

HOMES

Yang, originally from Nepal, is vice president and COO of Ideaworks and is the founder of Paths Education Hub, which helps students with their college applications free of charge. He also is founder of the Yangward Foundation, a nonprofit that strives to help disenfranchised women in Asia and Africa engage in revenue-generating activities like goat and chicken farming. In 2013, Yang received a highly competitive grant from The Resolution Project in partnership with the Clinton Foundation to start the foundation. Ed is the foundation’s vice president and secretary.

In an established neighborhood of mostly ranch-style and split-level homes built in the 1960s, the modern silhouette of 111 W. Briarwood stands out on its wooded lot. The slanted roof of its middle section is covered in solar panels, hinting at the modern amenities awaiting inside.

Entering through the front door, you will immediately notice the house’s tall ceilings and the compass etched into the floor of the entrance hall which gives the property’s exact coordinates.

“It’s concrete,” Ed says about the unique floor that runs throughout the main level. “It’s totally insulated down below, even down to the footings, so it stays at room temperature without having to heat it.”

COMOMAG.COM

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Living

HOMES

Building a net-zero house that wasn’t boring was important to Ed and Yang. At 3,600 cavernous square feet, energy efficiency in the house helps keep costs down and is sustainable.

Off to one side of the entrance hall is the master bedroom and en suite. Over the bed is an unusual-looking light fixture that Yang is excited to demonstrate: It’s a ceiling fan with retractable blades that extend slowly as it turns on. A sitting area offers two leather club chairs by the windows that look out onto the backyard. Yang points out that each bedroom has its own smart thermostat so guests can adjust the temperature in each room. The en suite bathroom boasts a timeless white-onwhite theme with white subway tile and white shower pan tile. A floating white double vanity is topped with marble, but perhaps the coolest bathroom features are the smart mirrors. Tap the mirror and it illuminates; push a button and the fog on the mirror will clear (another gadget that Yang excitedly shows off ).

Beyond the entrance hall, the home opens into a grand living area where the slanted ceiling seen from the outside towers above connects with an outside wall stacked with several 6-foot windows that are triple-glazed for efficiency.

This wall had to be pre-manufactured in Jefferson City and installed in one giant piece; even on an overcast day, the light streaming in makes you feel like you’re outside.

In the middle of the wall between the windows is a grouping of four large photos depicting the Big Bur Oak Tree in each season by photographer Heath Cajandig. Heath’s work can be found throughout the home adding warmth to the minimalist decor. Ed and Yang did not use a decorator, but rather 30

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chose the furnishings themselves. The living room to the right features two seating areas with sleek, modern black sofas and matching club chairs. They look out into the backyard that contains a basket-weave fence separating the house from the 100 West Briarwood property. A water feature cascades down the yard toward a patio.

“You can see the water feature from every bedroom,” Yang says, pointing to the intention behind the design.

The dining room to the left features a glistening frosted glass table encircled by clear, acrylic “ghost” chairs. A single glass vase sits atop the table, serving as a nod to their highly minimalist style. The dining 32

MAY 2022

room opens up to another patio that Ed says is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee.

Beyond the dining room lies the kitchen.

The white-on-white theme continues here on the cabinets, counters, and tile. A splash of navy can be found on the lowers of a small peninsula that offers bar seating. And if the smart mirrors in the bathroom don’t impress you, the smart kitchen appliances sure will! A clear fan of gadgets, Yang likes to point out the cameras on the refrigerator that show the contents inside, as well as a control panel on the door that allow you to listen to music. The oven and dishwasher are also smart.

Between the living room and dining/ kitchen, a towering staircase with Amish white oak steps extends to the second floor.

Glass panels act as railings. A lofted living room awaits at the top, perfect for guests who want a little space, along with views of the backyard through the wall of windows.

Three more bedrooms and another 2.5 bathrooms round out this one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art rental.

Yang says the patio-facing wall is their favorite part of the house. “We like [the] light coming in the large windows, creating a feeling as if you are living outdoors,” adding that so far there’s nothing they would change about their design decisions.

THE BIG DERBY PARTY 2022

Thank you to the following sponsors who helped make Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Big Derby Party a successful fundraiser!

PRESENTING SPONSOR: EquipmentShare WINNER’S CIRCLE: Boone Health, Rogers & Ehrhardt Attorneys at Law, Drewing Automotive STARTING GATE SPONSORS: Williams Keepers; Gandt Properties; Grimes, Fay and Kopp; SCI Engineering, Inc.; Evans and Dixon

Mark your calendars for Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Countdown to Kickoff, August 25, 2022. For more information, visit www.bigsofcentralmo.org!

HELPING HAND SPONSORS: Patrick and Sarah Vavra; Milam Excavating; The Company, Wendy Swetz Realty; Ford, Parshall and Baker, LLC.; Heather McCain

DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA’S CONTEMPORARY HOTEL Perfectly located in the heart of downtown Columbia, The Broadway is just a quick walk to the college and university campuses.

Dining, nightlife, and entertainment are just around the corner making The Broadway the ideal spot to stay in Columbia.

1111 E. Broadway | Columbia, MO 65201 | The BroadwayColumbia.com

Here’s the deal.

I’ll be there for you.

The future has a lot of what ifs, and it’s a good feeling to have someone in your corner and around the corner the help you plan for them. Call me today.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Phyllis Nichols, Agent

1006 West Boulevard N | Columbia, MO 65203 573-443-8727 | phyllis.nichols.g15k@statefarm.com State Farm Bloomington, IL 2001293

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WHAT THE

HOME

PROS KNOW

JAKE BAUMGARTNER

BAUMGARTNER’S FURNITURE

SHAUN HENRY ATKINS

JULIE WESLEY & JULIEANNE MATTSON TIGER HOME TEAM

JEREMY SPILLMAN LOMBARDO HOMES

KELLY MCBRIDE

ROST LANDSCAPING

ANNE TUCKLEY

ANNE TUCKLEY HOME

SPONSORED CONTENT

WHAT THE

FURNITURE CARE TIPS

JAKE BAUMGARTNER BAUMGARTNER’S FURNITURE

By Jake Baumgartner Find more at baumgartners.com

M

ost people spend a great deal of time and money to furnish their home. It’s essential to properly care for your furniture so it will stand the test of time. Here are some helpful tips to extend the life of your furniture and keep it looking great.

Read the Care Label Most pieces of furniture come with a care label. This label is your first resource for properly maintaining your furniture. The label will let you know the options for caring and cleaning — whether it’s recommended to machine wash your cushion covers, have them dry cleaned, etc.

Avoid Too Much Sun Remember to close blinds or draw your curtains when you can. The sun will speed up the process of fading and wear your furniture out more quickly. You can maintain the colors in your couches and rugs much longer if their exposure to the sun is limited.

Protect Surfaces Moisture, heat, and spills can cause damage to your tabletops, but these situations are easily avoidable. Invest in coasters, placemats, tablecloths, runners, trivets, or glass covers to protect your surfaces. These items can save your beautiful tabletops from unsightly rings, food spills, or scratches. Over time, hot dishes and cold beverages can discolor wood.

HOME

PROS KNOW

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

(573) 256-6288 BAUMGARTNERS.COM

Using these simple tools can help to lengthen the life of your furniture.

Rotate & Flip Remember to flip your couch and armchair cushions regularly. On average, the cushions should be flipped every two weeks. To get the maximum time out of your sofa, don’t forget to also rotate your cushions.

Different positions on the couch wear differently because of use. A lot of us have a favorite spot on the sofa that gets the most use. If your furniture has higher than average use or is made with lower quality materials, you need to do this more often. Flip your mattresses twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.

You may not need to flip your guest bedroom’s mattress as often, but don’t forget about it altogether.

At Baumgartner’s, we understand that furniture is a large investment.

Stop by our showrooms in Auxvasse or Columbia and let our furniture experts help you find pieces that will complement your space perfectly.

SPONSORED CONTENT

HOMEBUILDING DURING A PANDEMIC

JEREMY SPILLMAN LOMBARDO HOMES

Find more at lombardohomes.com

T

he decision to build a new home can feel both exciting and overwhelming. The recent COVID-19 pandemic challenged many homebuilders’ construction processes, schedules, and overall customer service. So, what do you need to know about building a new home during a pandemic?

Newly released homesites are a hot commodity.

Right now, the demand for new homes exceeds the supply.

Many builders are releasing a few homesites at a time, and they’re selling quickly. Make sure you understand how your builder handles the release of

HOME

PROS KNOW

With a fascination of architectural design and his own knack for design, a young Jeremy Spillman started Spillman Contracting to focus on smaller projects and remodels.

Fourteen years later, Spillman Homes was born, allowing Jeremy to expand his team and his knowledge of remodels and new home builds.

Thanks to expert design and craftsmanship, business grew exponentially, and Spillman Homes caught the attention of regional homebuilders. Jeremy joined forces with a regional partner in 2021. Now, Jeremy is the division president of Lombardo Homes Columbia, where he oversees the sales and construction of luxury, custom homes in the Columbia market.

By Jeremy Spillman

Builders are providing virtual and in-person options to shop, meet, and purchase.

COVID-19 made it necessary to accommodate shopping and buy a new home online or inperson. Many builders now have interactive design tools that allow you to pick a floor plan, options, and interior and exterior colors from the comfort of your home.

Or, you can check out a builder’s model home, which allows you to physically walk a floor plan and see the finishing touches.

Many builders now accommodate constructionrelated meetings virtually or in-person. Virtual meetings have the advantage of not only being conducive to social distancing, but also being easier on the schedule, too.

WHAT THE

LOMBARDO HOMES OF COLUMBIA 573-542-0605 LOMBARDOHOMES.COM

new homesites. Ask how they advertise a homesite release and what their process is. If they release homesites at a specific time, be sure you’re available and ready to follow any steps they outline. Should you wait hours or days, the likelihood of you getting the homesite of your dreams diminishes.

A price commitment from your builder is a must.

A number of pertinent building products increased dramatically in price in 2021, taking builders by surprise. It’s important your builder offer you a price commitment at time of purchase agreement. This ensures you know the final price of your home before you even start building it. When there is no communication or commitment about your sales price, or when a home is sold using allowances, these market costs

are sometimes recouped by the builder, which can dramatically increase your final purchase price beyond your expectation.

Supply chain issues are impacting the builders too.

The homebuilding industry has been hit by the same supply chain and labor shortages that are everywhere. If a product in your home is backordered or not available, please be patient and

understand that builders can’t control this shortage or delay anymore than you can control the lack of chips at your gas station.

However, any time a builder runs into a backorder, delay, or product shortage, they work diligently to substitute the product or find it outside of the local market to be able to complete your home in a timely manner. Ask any questions you have and start you on your homebuilding journey.

SPONSORED CONTENT

WHAT THE

THE FAMILY TREE

SHAUN HENRY

PROS KNOW

ATKINS

A Columbia native, Shaun Henry found a home at Atkins in 2000 when he started his career as a turf technician.

Shaun holds a commercial applicator’s license through the Missouri Department of Agriculture and is a member of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, the Mid-America Green Industry Council, and the Missouri Green Industry Alliance. Shaun strongly believes in the importance of a great customer experience where the Atkins staff knows their clients and anticipates their needs accordingly.

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

By Shaun Henry Find more at AtkinsInc.com

W

e have a tremendous family tree between my wife and I. The Henrys, Pauleys, Redmons, Hartleys, Siscos, Meyers, Millers, Matthews, Bass, and Washingtons make up most of our branches. With over 70 first cousins, her side of the tree is a bit bigger than mine.

Another type of family tree would be the one behind my grandparents’ house.

We’re living in the house now, and I’ve got one big ash tree back there that I’m trying to protect for future climbers from the Emerald Ash Borers (EAB).

EAB is a severe pest and an incredible threat to all of our ash trees. Similar to many of our most destructive pests, EAB came to the U.S. from foreign lands and prey on unsuspecting plants. It’s considered the most destructive pest ever seen in North American forests.

This beetle is a metallic green half-inch long ash-killing monster. The females lay their eggs in the cracks and crevices of the bark on ash tree trunks and major branches from mid-June through August. Then, the larvae hatch about 2-3 weeks later and bore into the trunk and devastate the tree’s vascular tissue with tunnels reducing its ability to translocate water and food. Most of the larvae will mature by September, but some will over-winter inside the tree to begin feeding and maturing again the next summer. The mature larvae will then pupate and transform into adults in April and May. The adults then chew their way out of the tree leaving their signature D-shaped exit holes. The adults then spend their time feeding on ash tree leaves, mating so they can start the cycle all over again.

HOME

573-874-5100 ATKINSINC.COM

Signs and symptoms to watch for: • Woodpecker feeding primarily in the upper limbs and large branches of ash trees. They remove patches of bark as they look for the EAB living just under the surface.

• Weak and thinning crown of the tree.

One-third of the tree can die back in just the first year after infestation.

• Branches with yellowing or lighter green leaves due to the inability to translocate food and water where it needs to go.

• Epicormic shoots also known as “water sprouts” and “suckers” coming out of the trunk and major branches from dormant buds. These are typically associated with stress or dieback of the upper crown of the tree as the tree tries to increase the amount of sunlight it gets and energy it can create.

A survival mechanism, basically.

• Splitting bark • D-shaped exit holes. At first infestation, these may be too high in the tree to see from the ground, but as more EAB infiltrate the tree you may see them lower in the trunk of your ash. The more holes in the main trunk you see, the less likely it is that the tree will survive.

Unfortunately, EAB can take a large ash tree down in 3-4 years. Smaller trees can be killed in just two years. They tend to first infest weaker, stressed trees, but will attack a perfectly healthy ash as well. There are a handful of systemic insecticides that have proven effective on managing the EAB. Depending on the size of your tree and the insecticide chosen, the treatment may need to be repeated every year and every 2-3 years, but repeat applications are necessary as long as EAB is in your neighborhood.

You’ll have to decide whether the tree’s value warrants the repeat investment.

A tree care professional can help you to evaluate the current condition of your ash trees and give you an idea of cost to manage the EAB if warranted. If the tree is of less value, just sit back, wait and watch for the symptoms and signs outlined above.

It’s just a matter of time. If the tree dies or dies-back severely, the limbs and likely the tree itself will need removed to help prevent safety issues.

Need help protecting your family’s ash tree? That’s what we’re here for!

Atkins has a long history of serving the Columbia and surrounding communities and we look forward to doing that for generations to come.

SPONSORED CONTENT

SOME OF OUR NEW PERENNIALS FOR 2022

KELLY McBRIDE

ROST LANDSCAPING

WHAT THE

HOME

PROS KNOW

Kelly McBride grew up in Columbia just down the road from Rost Inc., and she's happy to still call Columbia home. She has a degree in plant science and landscape design from MU and was hired as Rost’s landscape maintenance manager after graduation. Her love for plants makes this job very enjoyable when assisting clients with their outdoor tasks. Outside of work, you can find her cooking, gardening, sewing, or doing other outdoor activities.

By Kelly McBride Find more at rostlandscaping.com

(573) 445-4465 ROSTLANDSCAPING.COM

W

e are always excited when spring comes around to see what is rolling into our garden center. There are many new perennials on the market, but we want to share a few of the new and improved we are carrying for 2022. Perennials will come back every year, providing color, texture and food for pollinators.

Cat’s Meow Nepeta This is an improved variety on Walker’s Low Catmint giving better and bolder color. Its gray-green leaves are topped with spikes of purple flowers from early summer to early fall. It has less flop because of its slightly smaller and improved form at a little over 2 feet tall and wide. Cat’s Meow takes full sun and was voted “most likely to thrive.”

Salvia Blue by You This perennial is an excellent alternative to the May Night Salvia.

It needs full sun, and has a growth habit rounding out at 1 ½ feet tall and wide. A main perk is that after deadheading, instead of it taking about 6 weeks to re-bloom, we are looking at a better turnaround time of 4 weeks providing more color for your growing season with longlasting violet blue flower spikes.

Earlybird Columbine Series We are now carrying this shade lover that comes in blue and pink.

Early Bird rounds out to about one foot tall and wide. It has earlier blooms to give you not only color sooner in spring, but also attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.

Also, instead of just one bloom and done, you can dead head them and Early bird columbine will bloom 1-2 more times.

Dianthus Paint the Town Series These come in an assortment of vibrant colors and overall, had an improved fullness compared other dianthus varieties. It can take partial to full sun and reaches up to 1 foot tall and wide. This petite perennial can still pack a punch along your pathways with its blue foliage and bright, fragrant frilly flowers from early summer to early fall.

Our improved perennials are not only striking, but they are fairly low maintenance! Not to mention, they are all deer resistant. These are great for those who don’t feel as if they have a green thumb. If you see any gaps in your landscape, be sure to keep some of our new 2022 perennials in mind.

SPONSORED CONTENT

JULIE WESLEY & JULIEANNE MATTSON

UPSIZE OR DOWNSIZE?

TIGER HOME TEAM

WHAT THE

HOME

PROS KNOW

Born and raised in Missouri, Julie Wesley graduated from MU with a degree in housing and interior design.

She began her career as an architectural home designer before getting her real estate license in 1982.

JulieAnne grew up in South Florida, graduated from the University of South Florida in 1992 with a degree in elementary education, and moved here to marry her Columbia-native husband.

She began her real estate career in 2012 with Tiger Home Team.

By Julie Wesley & JulieAnne Mattson Find more at tigerhometeam.com

D

eciding if it is time for your family to upsize or downsize is not always a clear choice. There are factors to consider that might push you to take the leap or stay put for a while longer. Whether you are thinking about upsizing so your family can spread out or purging possessions so you can downsize, here are some questions to ponder.

573-289-4440 | TIGERHOMETEAM.COM

1. HOW ARE YOU USING YOUR CURRENT SPACE? Do your family members feel like they don’t have adequate privacy or space to do their own thing? Are you tired of working at the dining table and really need an office or workshop? Is having the kids share bedrooms just not working out? Maybe an upsize is warranted. On the other hand, do you have rooms that aren’t being used, or are you tired of paying property taxes on more house than you need? Check for the downsize column!

2. HAVE YOU CONSIDERED MAINTENANCE COSTS? If upsizing is on your mind, consider the added costs in time and money it takes to maintain a larger home or property. Will you be able to keep up with cleaning, lawn care, and general maintenance issues that come with home ownership? If you are ready to cross maintenance off your to-do list, perhaps you are ready to downsize to a more manageable property or one where the HOA handles part of the job.

3. WHAT ARE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE NEEDS? Are you ready to give up having a yard or

THIS OR THAT? WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU? garden to downsize to a maintenance-free space? Do you have pets that need outdoor space? Do you need more outdoor space for your children to play or your dog to run around? The size of the house is one thing, but the property is important also.

4. HAVE YOU LOOKED TO THE FUTURE? What do you expect your needs to be in the next 5, 10, or 20 years? Do you want a large home where your children and grandchildren will come for vacations and holidays, or will you be spending those times at their homes? Will you want to entertain groups of friends, or do you foresee going out for your entertainment? What will

happen if your spouse passes? Will you want to stay in the home on your own?

5. IS IT THE RIGHT MARKET TO UPSIZE OR DOWNSIZE? A seller’s market is hot for those looking to downsize from a larger home. Upsizing may be riskier in a big seller’s market, but if your family would be happier in a larger home, it might be worth the leap.

Whatever the next step might be for you…

Tiger Home Team wants your “RIGHTSIZING” (what we like to call it) experience to be wonderful! We’d be honored to assist you.

SPONSORED CONTENT

ENJOY YOUR OUTDOOR OASIS ALL YEAR!

By Anne Tuckley Find more at AnneTuckleyhome.com

I

love outdoor living spaces. They have beautiful lighting, wonderful shadows, a gentle breeze and (usually) a wonderful smell. They provide a beautiful canvas to customize with one’s own design style.

I am frequently astounded by the amount of money that a homeowner will spend on a beautifully crafted and stained deck only to top it off with folding tailgate furniture. Now, I have nothing against tailgating or the furniture, but when you are trying to create a true outdoor living space it lacks a certain...well...everything.

My family and I use our deck on a regular basis, and I love utilizing the same furniture and simply switching out the accessories to create very distinct looks depending on the time of year (or my mood).

I’ll start with black-and-white decor.

Black and white are wonderful neutrals to utilize during the summer months. The bold contrast of the two colors play off the natural shading and light effects cast by the surrounding trees. It forces the vivid colors of the landscaping to pop. I love to keep color accents on the table to a minimum to keep the focus on the natural beauty of the setting.

In autumn, I utilize vivid reds, oranges, and browns in my accessories that complement the ever changing trees. I opt for more color in the fall rather than the summer to create an elegant look that will maintain its elegance long after the leaves drop off. I also love to add layers of linens to create a sense of warmth, coziness, and autumn nostalgia.

ANNE TUCKLEY

WHAT THE

HOME

PROS KNOW

ANNE TUCKLEY HOME Anne has been in the interior design industry for more than 20 years and has resided in metropolitan cities ranging from NYC to Houston while honing her skills. Her specialties are interior design and home staging with a focus on unique perception. Anne graduated with a BFA in fine arts with a concentration in design and illustration. She has extensive experience in designing new construction as well as remodeling and conceptualizing out-of-the-box ideas. She ensures cutting-edge design and superb customer service.

108 CORPORATE LAKE DRIVE COLUMBIA, MO, 65203 (573) 639-1989 ANNETUCKLEYHOME.COM

a secret

family recipe fo r s uccess

Taking the time to enjoy a family meal at the Claysville Store in Hartsburg.

BY AMANDA LONG PHOTOS BY SADIE THIBODEAUX

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I

n the case of the Claysville Store, the old adage, “Don’t judge a book by its cover” rings truer than ever. Located just off the Katy Trail in the river town of Hartsburg, the family-style restaurant’s faded, red exterior wouldn’t lead you to believe that interior is overflowing with love, life lessons, and mouth-watering, made-from-scratch dishes.

THE LITTLE RED WAGON Proprietors and husband-and-wifeteam, Mark and Laura Hooibrink, look at each other and smile when asked to recount how they got to where they are today. Previously owned by Gus Wilkening in 1940, the dilapidated old Hartsburg general store was covered with vines, had no floor, and was used for storage when the Hooibrinks purchased the property from local farmers in the mid-80’s.

When the Katy Trail opened in the early 90’s, Mark and Laura’s oldest daughter, Sarah, decided to test her entrepreneurial spirit by selling Kool-Aid to the trail’s bikers. Working out of her little red wagon, Sarah made more than $20 over the weekend, and helped her family spark the idea of starting a business in the old general store.

GOURMET

After the flood of 1993, the family began working to clean up the building and surrounding area, repairing the floors and walls. “It was a family project and a good way to instill a work ethic in the children,” says Mark.

“We opened the store in summer of 1998 – Sarah and (her brother), Fred, were in high school, and (her sister) Natalie was still in elementary, and sold sandwiches and chips to people on the trail. Many of the customers remembered the kids from selling Kool-Aid years earlier. Everyone on the trail was curious about what was going on with the store,” recalls Mark.

“Business was hit or miss in the early days,” says Mark. “We’d serve 15-20 people on the weekend, trying soups and different entrees; we weren’t really consistent because we had school and Laura and I both had full-time jobs.”

In September of 2002, the Hooibrinks decided to take the store to the next level and test the market with a menu of fried chicken and all the fi xings.

“It seemed like there was a need in the community for a family-style restaurant, and we decided to give it a go.”

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Mark and Laura told the kids they wanted to install a new kitchen and expand the seating so they could work their way through high school and earn a little money. “Restaurants are a lot of work. We told them we weren’t going to do it if they weren’t going to stick with it. They proved to us they are very hard-working young people,” shares Mark.

A new vent hood was needed for the kitchen expansion, estimated to cost approximately $7,500, which the family did not have. Laura said, “I told Mark, let’s pray about it and see where God leads us.” It was through a work acquaintance, Mark was able to secure a new hood for a much more affordable price. “It was like God said, ‘I want you to fry chicken,’” laughs Laura.

IT’S WHAT’S ON THE INSIDE “In the beginning, we served around 20-25 people on Saturday and Sunday,” says Mark. “We had a lot of local support. Customers that came to eat every weekend got to know our kids and their friends, because they worked here and eventually became like family.”

Laura says that people they have met through the restaurant even came to our childrens’ weddings. “We don’t ever forget the people who graced our doors in the beginning who were faithful for years.”

The Hooibrinks continued to expand and update the building, adding more seating and updating the restrooms, kitchen, and layout — all the while striving to maintain the building’s original character. Fred suggested adding a mural to the new addition that depicted a steam engine arriving to Hartsburg in the early 20th century — a recreation of an old photo that hung by the front in the original part of the store. The family commissioned the project to a local artist who is also a family friend. It was the perfect addition to tie in the new with the old.

Today, Mark, Laura, their grandkids, and 30 highschoolers serve family-style fare from 4-8 p.m. on Saturdays and 12:30– 4p.m. on Sundays in the hand-sewn quilt decorated dining rooms. “Mark will be 70 by the time we get them all out of high school,” laughs Laura.

“We tell all the kids our main goal is for you to grow up to be responsible men and women. When they come on, they are part of our family. Sometimes we screw up, but most of the time we get it right. But I’m doing them a disservice by not teaching them to do it the right way,” says Mark.

He looked at Mark and said,

“Boy, whatever you do, don’t change the front of the restaurant.”

As head of the kitchen, Mark fries the chicken and prepares the ham, barbecue, potatoes, green beans, and gravy. Laura makes all the desserts from scratch. “And I season your beans,” she adds laughing.

“We’re not right on the beaten path and we know it doesn’t look like much on the outside,” says Mark smiling. “But sometimes it is what’s on the inside that counts.”

Mark recounts the story of a carload of customers who arrived, took one look at the outside of the building, and informed him that the wives 44

MAY 2022

Living

GOURMET

wouldn’t come in because it scared them. At the time, Mark was standing on the front porch with a regular customer who was watching the interaction. He looked at Mark and said, “Boy, whatever you do, don’t change the front of the restaurant.”

GIVING BACK As the restaurant grew and gained in prosperity, Laura and Mark began looking for ways to give back to their community. Laura created Families Helping Families, an organization to help those in need through a community benefit. “If God leads us to a family in need, we have a benefit across the street from the store, and we give all proceeds to the family,” says Laura.

It was the store’s 10th anniversary in 2012, and Laura and Mark were looking for a family in need. The very next weekend, a man brought his 4-year-old granddaughter into the restaurant after she’d just completed a round of radiation therapy for a tumor on her spine. In what Laura describes as “a God thing,” the man’s granddaughter was the daughter of another of Mark’s work associates. The Claysville Store family sponsored a benefit and donated all proceeds to the young girl.

Future plans for the store include kitchen updates and additional outdoor seating. “In terms of the menu,” Marks says, “we’re sticking to what we know.”

As the 25th Anniversary approaches in the summer of 2023, the Hooibrinks are planning a special “homecoming” event to celebrate the family they’ve created over the years at the Claysville Store.

Mark shares, “We’ve seen a lot of young people come and go, we see our employees graduate, and their friends and siblings, and want to celebrate that. Even if I didn’t make a dime here, it wouldn’t bother me because I love that three generations have worked here, that means more to me than money.

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Vintage Designs,

Timeless Style One mother's blog blossoms into a children's clothing boutique.

BY KIM AMBRA | PHOTOS BY CASEY BUCKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

G

racefully Made Boutique offers custom, handmade children’s clothing and accessories. All the clothes and bows featured in the online boutique are handmade from start to finish by owner Corey Buckman. Additionally, Corey partners with other women owners of U.S.-based businesses to provide high-quality retail options such as graphic tees, stockings/tights, socks, and other unique gifts.

Corey says, “Gracefully Made originally began as a blog when I fi rst began navigating my role as a bonus mom. As our family

46

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dynamic continued to change, so did my blog. When our daughter was born in 2019, I began asking over and over for a sewing machine so I could make her adorable little dresses. My husband bought me one for Mother’s Day, and I made my fi rst dress that night. It started as a hobby and something fun to do on the side, but it quickly grew into a business. Before long, Gracefully Made the blog became Gracefully Made Boutique.”

The advantage Gracefully Made has over competition is the personal touch Corey strives to provide for each project.Corey

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likes to create personal relationships with her clients. It's her custom garment process that really allows her to get to know her customers.

One of Corey’s favorite parts of the job is seeing her products pop up in photos commemorating special events like the fi rst day of school, family photos, and everything in between.

Growing up in South Carolina, Corey says flowy summer dresses, neutral tones, and schoolgirl bows will never go out of style for her.

As Gracefully Made has grown, she has been focused on really honing in on the brand of “Vintage Designs, Timeless Style.” When it comes to fabric, you won’t find characters or busy patterns featured in the shop. Instead, you’re more likely to find vintage florals or neutral Earth tones of her home state’s Lowcountry — especially those marsh browns and tans, ocean blues and greens, and the spectrum of a sailor’s sky.

In terms of the clothing shapes and details, Corey leans more toward classic dresses, summer rompers, ruffles, and pinafores. In a world that tries to rush through childhood, Corey says she wants the style of her garments to be timeless.

She wants to let children be little for as long as possible, dressing them in classic styles that can be passed down from sibling to sibling.

“While I often make my own clothes to match my daughter, I do not have plans at this time to offer handmade adult clothing to sell. Instead, periodically we offer presale orders for graphic tees and other clothing items that would pair nicely with the handmade children’s garments.

Additionally, I love supporting other local small businesses and frequently refer our customers to those stores as well. A few of our favorites places to shop for clothing and gifts: Plume, The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift, and Brek Boutique,” Corey says.

Her next step is to completely transition her blog into a retail website. On top of owning Gracefully Made and being a mom, Corey is also a speech-language pathologist, so shifting the website has taken longer than she’d like. She hopes to have it up and running within the next month or so.

“My goal is to move all the merchandise sales and custom garment options from our private VIP Facebook group to the new website for ease of shopping and accessibility. Th is is a grassroots business — I’ve built it from the ground up with no loans or anything, which is something I’m really proud of. I’d love to keep seeing this business grow!”

GRACEFULLY MADE BOUTIQUE GRACEFULLYMADE.ORG INSTAGRAM: @GRACEFULLY_ MADE_ BOUTIQUE

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It started as a hobby and something fun to do on the side, but it quickly grew into a

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The Advantage of a Head Start Head Start helps prepare children and families for early childhood education

BY CORIN CESARIC | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CENTRAL MISSOURI COMMUNITY ACTION

C

Living

FRIENDS & FAMILY

entral Missouri Community Action (CMCA) helps empower people and improve their quality of life through its programs and services. One of the programs CMCA operates — and its largest — is Head Start.

Head Start is a federally funded program that helps at-risk children prepare for kindergarten and improve their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Beginning in 1965, the program was one of the fi rst that started under the War on Poverty. While it initially began as a summer program, it quickly became apparent that to truly best serve children in need, that wouldn’t be enough. Today, CMCA’s Head Start is offered to children aged 3 to 5 years-old.

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“Our mission is to build relationships to empower people, strengthen resilience, and [to] improve quality of life for all members of the community,” CMCA Executive Director Darin Preis said.

Head Start gives children the opportunity to improve their listening and speaking skills, gain self confidence, and create steady home routines before starting elementary school.

In addition to working with the children, Head Start also works with their parents or guardians to make sure their needs and goals are also being met so the child can grow up in a happy and healthy home.

CMCA and Head Start also ensures the children are physically and mentally well by offering health screenings, physical and dental examinations, and nutritional experiences where the children are encouraged to try new foods to create healthy habits that they hopefully carry into adulthood.

“We’re working with the most challenged families in our community,” Darin said. “The idea is that by providing a high-quality early childhood education, we’re helping to prepare the young children for school. At the same time, we’re working very closely with the parents or whoever the adults in the household might be — we work with a lot of grandparents who are raising young children — so we’re working on their goals at the same time so we can create stable households with good, consistent routines, improving income for the family, and decreasing their costs all while providing this comprehensive early-childhood program. We call it a whole-family approach. It’s not just the child we’re serving, it’s also the adults in the household.”

Head Start is a free program, but families do have to apply and qualify for it.

“It’s 100% of poverty and below, so it’s very low income families that we’re working with,” Darin said. “There are some exceptions where we can go up to 135% of poverty, and mostly we fi ll those slots with children who have disabilities.”

The application for Head Start is on the CMCA website, but Darin said the program needs to grow to be able to serve more families in need. Currently, CMCA’s Head Start program serves 11 counties and 569 families.

Living

“There are so many families that need access to Head Start,” Darin said. “We have waiting lists that are longer than any of the slots we have available, so we need to grow.”

For the program to grow, federal funding would need to be increased. Darin said they also apply for grants when they become available.

“There’s decades and decades of research that says the academic impacts of Head Start last well into high school and beyond in terms of workforce readiness and income levels over the course of their lives,” Darin said. “And a big outcome is that we see kids that are more socially and emotionally stable by the time they are seniors in high school than their low-income peers.”

While Darin doesn’t typically work directly with children, there are times when he has visited a Head Start classroom and witnessed the impact for himself.

“Every time I go into a classroom I can tell you that I get the sense that there’s not enough male involvement in kid’s lives, because as soon as I sit down to read a book, I’m surrounded by children,” Darin said. “They’re just soaking up that attention and love of books and just having [those] kind of positive interactions and positive role models — adult role models — you see their faces light up when they’re in Head Start because they’re getting all of these positive experiences that are building their opportunities.”

FRIENDS & FAMILY

In addition to Head Start, CMCA also runs a program called BRIDGE that is designed for families that graduate from Head Start through second grade.

“We continue providing support and coaching to these parents while helping them ‘bridge’ the transition to public schools,” Darin said. “We train public school teachers on the causes and conditions of poverty while teaching them strategies to fully engage families that might not otherwise feel comfortable in a school setting.”

The elementary school teachers go on home visits for the children, while CMCA members accompany adults to the school for parent-teacher conferences and additional events.

BRIDGE is funded by the Boone County Children’s Services Commission.

Darin started out as a grant writer for CMCA before climbing the ranks to become the Executive Director. Soon after joining CMCA, he realized he wanted to stay for as long as he could.

“I always wanted to have a job that would be meaningful, like I would feel like I would make a difference,” says Darin.

“And when I came across Head Start, I realized this is the way you can impact peoples’ lives and make improvements to your community and create opportunity, so I really fell in love with Head Start form the moment I started working there.”

“We call it a whole-family approach.

It's not just the child we're serving, it's also the adults in the household.”

– Darin Preis, Executive Director of CMCA COMOMAG.COM

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How to Save a Life It only takes one person to save a life f rom suicide.

Burrell Behavioral Health’s ONE program asks Columbia businesses and individuals to pledge to try.

BY M I C HE L L E T E R HU NE

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The statistics about suicide are overwhelming:

From 1999 to 2019, suicide rates grew by 33%.

1

It’s the 10th leading cause of death in Missouri and nationally.

2

One person dies from suicide in Missouri every seven minutes.

3

Worldwide, suicide takes the lives of more than 800,000. That’s one life every 40 seconds.

4

In 2019, among those aged 15-19 worldwide, it was the fourth leading cause of death.

5

It’s estimated that 3.5 million people planned a suicide in 2019. 1.4 million attempted it, and nearly 48,000 were successful.

6

www.cdc.gov/suicide/resources/sos.html; 2, 3 dmh.mo.gov/sites/dmh/fi les/media/pdf/2019/02/where-we-stand.pdf; 4 www.burrellcenter.com/one; 5 www.who.int/newsroom/fact-sheets/detail/suicide 6 www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/annual/measure/Suicide/state/ALL

1

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hile the statistics speak for themselves, so many avoid discussing the people behind the statistics. Given the number of people who plan, attempt, or successfully take their own lives, it’s likely that most of us have been personally touched by suicide — I know I have.

So, why are conversations about suicide so hushed? Why aren’t the mental health issues that precede these tragedies addressed in the same way as cancer, diabetes, or heart disease?

Burrell Behavioral Health is trying to change the quiet realities of suicide through its community initiative, “Our Networks Engaged” or ONE. More than two years in development, ONE helps community members learn how to have conversations related to suicide and teaches them preventative measures.

According to Brandan Gremminger, PsyD and Burrell’s vice president of outpatient and access services, statistics were an impetus for the program.

“We took a hard look and really feel the statistics associated with suicide attempts and deaths by suicide are unacceptable,” Brandan says. “We don’t intend to stand by while this issue is impacting our communities in which we and our loved ones live.”

“In order to save lives, we recognize that we need to work together to make a commitment to reducing stigma associated with talking about mental health, and normalize pursuing and participating in mental health treatment,” Brandan says.

Most of us don’t know how to have open and honest conversations about mental health and suicide. As I read about Burrell’s ONE program, The Fray’s lyrics kept running through my mind: “And I would have stayed up with you all night had I known how to save a life.”

Most of us also don’t know what we should do if someone tells us they’re going to end their own life. While working for a law firm a few years ago, I answered a call from a parent of a client who said her daughter was threatening suicide. She asked me what she should do. I didn’t know. I suggested she call 911 if her child was in immediate danger while I fumbled to Google the number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline for her. A life was on the line, and I was unequipped to do anything to save it, even though I had lost a nephew to suicide a decade before.

“You might not have ready access to education on just how to have an honest conversation about mental health and suicide prevention and to take that conversation in the direction of ‘what do I do if someone I love needs help?’,” Brandan says.

“In order to save lives, we recognize that we need to work together to make a commitment to reducing stigma associated with talking about mental health, and normalize pursuing and participating in mental health treatment.”

BRANDAN GREMMINGER, PsyD and Burrell’s vice president of outpatient and access services

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Teams at Columbia Marketing Group and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri sign their Burrell ONE pledge.

ONE Can Teach Us How Brandan quotes another telling statistic about the gap between mental health diagnoses and suicide. He says more than half of adults who died by suicide had no mental health diagnosis which means they never had mental health intervention. That gap needs to be filled with early identification of those at risk and better education and support from those Brandan calls “therapeutic helpers.” ONE is designed to build an army of therapeutic helpers in Columbia.

There are two toolkits in Burrell’s program, one for businesses and organizations and the other for individuals. Everyone must take the ONE pledge to care for others, be the person someone else can come to talk about issues (i.e., feelings of depression, thoughts of self-harm, etc.), and identify one person we can talk to if we’re feeling those things. You also pledge to be trained in suicide prevention techniques, promote healthy conversations about suicide, share resources, promote ONE’s message, and be

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publicly identified as a supporter of the program. Businesses additionally pledge to donate time and organizational resources to training their employees to engage and assist those who may be contemplating suicide.

“We need to get behind a cultural shift in our community to normalize this information, but to make sure we’re doing more than just signing a piece of paper as a pledge, feeling proud about that, and putting it in a drawer somewhere,” Brandan says. “Our pledge really requires the person taking it to take some simple but active steps in making changes.”

Providing the necessary training isn’t without cost to participating organizations. Burrell funds the program using the Emergency Response to Suicide Prevention grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Depending on the number of people an organization chooses to train, Brandan says suicide prevention education can cost businesses thousands of dollars. The SAMHSA grant allows Burrell to cover the material costs of that training for employers.

Businesses integrate Burrell into their workflows to help a project in its entirety. Burrell helps with the program’s infrastructure such as data management and coaching on best practices. Moreover, Burrell will be the repository of business models so others that take the pledge can use them as examples to create their own ONE programs. The goal is for businesses to integrate suicide prevention into their company culture for the long term.

Columbia Marketing Group and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri were the first two Columbia corporate ONE participants to take the pledge. Brandan says other businesses have been talking to Burrell about the program as interest in participating grows. Businesses facilitate the capture of a large audience in one space.

“That skill doesn’t stop when employees leave the workplace,” Brandan says. “They take that skill home with them and they’re able to ask their partners, their children, their neighbors about it. So, we expect them to be a positive ripple effect of receiving the training in the workplace that will trickle down and benefit families as they become more comfortable having conversations with their loved ones on these topics.”

For individuals, ONE employs the 4-3-2-1 model. That is, have four honest conversations about suicide, share three prevention and awareness resources with others, attend two trainings, and make one commitment to the ONE movement. Those who take the pledge gain access to Burrell’s social network, resources, and to ONE consultants.

Building Hope Brandan says “hope” is a word often used in the context of emotional well-being, but there’s neuroscience behind it. When someone has hope, it triggers the release of dopamine, which is necessary to feel motivation and take the first step toward meaningful change.

My family has been touched by suicide. I have a good friend who lost a son to suicide last year. He was about the same age as

Learning to lean in with life-saving honest conversations.

For individuals, ONE employs the 4-3-2-1 model:

4

my nephew was. I understand how hope can be as difficult for those of us left behind as it was for those we lost.

In my family, we have never really had those honest conversations about my nephew’s death. But my friend and I have talked openly about her son’s. What I’ve learned from her is that sometimes, no matter how hard you try or what you do or how open and honest your conversations are with someone vulnerable, you still can’t create the hope required to save them. But neither of us believes that it’s not worth the effort.

Brandan says that for every adult who dies by suicide, another 20 have attempted it. He sees those 20 people as opportunities for conversations that might help save their lives. If I can take ONE’s opportunity to learn how to save the life of someone I know and love down the road, I pledge to try.

What exactly qualifies as an “honest conversation” about suicide and mental health? Brandan tells me this story qualifies as one, so I’m already on my way.

3 2

Commit to four honest conversations about suicide.

Share three prevention and awareness resources with others.

Participate in two trainings and two surveys.

One Commitment: Pledge to take active steps to increase awareness and lean into

If you, your business, or organization want to learn more, visit burellcenter.com/one, or email the ONE consultation team at one@burrellcenter.com.

host conversations about suicide preventions.

ONE SUICIDE PREVENTION PROGRAM 3401 BERRY WOOD DRIVE (573) 777-8300 BURRELLCENTER.COM/ONE

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Strength through Struggle Three local families share how pediatric cancer has affected their lives.

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN

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O

ne day, the Karr, Wampler, and Loos families were living normal lives filled with the typical ups and downs of work, school, and family life. The next day, they were families navigating the ugly and unfair world of pediatric cancer. Though their individual journeys took them on different paths, those paths were each forged with an incredible amount of bravery, strength, and faith.

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B

eckett Karr celebrated his sixth birthday with a party at Sky Zone this past March. True to the “Wreck-It Beckett” nickname he earned as a toddler, the birthday boy was thrilled to run, jump, climb, and bounce with his friends. For his parents, Lauren and Geoff, the party carried a heavier significance. It was the first birthday since he turned two that didn’t include chemotherapy after Beckett’s nearly four-year battle with High-Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Beckett received his last chemo treatment through his port on December 21, 2021. He celebrated Christmas port-free, and on New Year’s Eve, his doctor called to say that he was officially cancer-free.

In the summer of 2018, Lauren says that Beckett was a typical, active 2-year-old boy. After returning from a family vacation in Colorado, he became sick with strep throat. Lauren and Geoff took him to the pediatrician for antibiotics. Two weeks later, Lauren says that Beckett had a temper tantrum at a picnic, and he briefly passed out in Geoff ’s arms.

“Just like a two year old, I thought maybe he was crying a little too much,” Lauren says. “Three days later, I left for a work trip to Oregon and my husband was putting him in his car seat, and he passed out again.”

Geoff took Beckett to the pediatrician where they ran blood tests. As he and Beckett were eating lunch, the office called and asked them to come back. Geoff later told Lauren that as he entered the office, no one would look him in the eye, and he knew something was wrong. The doctor told Geoff that a team was waiting for Beckett at the hospital.

In a whirlwind of emotion, Geoff took Beckett to University of Missouri Children’s Hospital, where he was officially diagnosed with Leukemia.

Lauren’s mom called her in Oregon at 11 a.m., and her mother’s intuition told her something was seriously wrong. Her employer worked desperately to get her on a flight back to Columbia. At 8:45 p.m., she walked into Beckett’s hospital room.

“After the fact, you look back and are like ‘duh,’” Lauren says. “He was pale, but he’d had strep throat. He had bruises all over, but he was 2.

His organs were so enlarged that they were pressing on his lungs, and that’s why he would pass out when he was upset.”

Beckett spent three days in the ICU getting blood transfusions to prepare his tiny body for chemo, then he had surgery to place a port.

Within days, he started treatment. After 10 days in the hospital, Beckett went home for four days before becoming sick with a fever and spending seven more days in the hospital.

“A month in, we were hit with another low blow,” Lauren says. “Beckett had a mutation that made the cancer much more likely to come back. We were distraught and our world was crumbling all over. Our nurse practitioner found a study that was happening in some hospitals, and one

The Karr Family

was Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, which was a no-brainer, because my brother and sisterin-law live there.”

For a year-and-ahalf, Lauren and Geoff left their daughter, Kennedy, with grandparents or friends every Sunday night and traveled to Kansas City for 7 a.m. appointments each Monday.

The study drug that Beckett received was one that adults had been given for years, but as the Karr family learned, only a small percentage of funding is dedicated to pediatric cancer research.

“It breaks my heart that only 4% of money goes to pediatric research,” Lauren says. “A group that is actively working to fix that is the Super Sam Foundation. I constantly push and tell people to donate your money there.”

As Beckett prepares to enter kindergarten this fall, Lauren says their cancer journey will never truly be over. Beckett will have his numbers checked every two months for the next two years, then will continue every six months for several years. The Karr family will also continue to deal with the side effects of chemo in young children, which can include growth and behavioral issues, weight gain and fertility issues.

“You don’t want to think about kids being sick because it is so unfair,” Lauren says. “There is nothing these kids have done to deserve getting cancer, but it happens around you more than you know. It’s not something I would wish on my worst enemy.”

“You don’t want to think about kids being sick because it is so unfair. There is nothing these kids have done to deserve getting cancer, but it happens around you more than you know.

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L

izzy Wampler was brave. She was joyful, fun loving and goofy. She was a good and faithful friend. She was positive.

She was complimentary to people. She was strong in her beliefs and in her faith, and she loved to sing and play her ukulele. She loved to put on makeup, and she adored her brother, Daniel, and her sister, Hannah. She had striking blond hair and a smile that lit up her face.

At just 9 years old, Lizzy was battling Osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer, at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. She was experiencing excruciating nerve pain.

She was sick and weak from chemotherapy, but seeing the other sick kids in the hospital is what bothered her the most.

“That sums up who Lizzy was,” says Lizzy’s mom, Jennifer. “She was very selfless and very considerate.”

Lizzy was a fourth grader at Cedar Ridge Elementary in 2016 when she began displaying symptoms of growing pains, just as Hannah had several years earlier. One day, as she was wrestling with Daniel, Lizzy fell on her right knee and let out what Jennifer describes as a heart-wrenching scream.

“We took her to the pediatrician who was a little concerned with the swelling and thought it was a pulled ligament,” Jennifer says. “He had us go to an orthopedic doctor for an X-ray, and the doctor came in and said that there was a dark mass in the bone of her right femur. We needed to have an MRI done right away, and it was scheduled for later that day.”

The next day, the Wampler family learned that the mass in Lizzy’s leg was cancer. The day before Thanksgiving 2016, they learned that it was Osteosarcoma.

“As a parent, I had done everything I could to protect my kids,” Jennifer says. “I provided organic foods, I cleaned with organic cleaners.

I felt very violated as parent. Your main responsibility as a parent is to protect your child and you feel very helpless at that point.”

For the next 15 months, Lizzy bravely faced surgery to remove almost seven inches of her femur, which was replaced with a titanium rod. She went through an 8-month chemotherapy treatment protocol that kept her at St. Jude’s in Memphis, while Jennifer and her husband John crossed paths as they alternated weeks with Lizzy in Memphis and Hannah and Daniel in Columbia.

As her 8-month protocol was coming to an end and plans for a “No More Chemo” party were underway, her final set of scans showed that

The Wampler Family

It’s not something I would wish on my worst enemy.” — LAUREN KARR

the cancer had spread to her pelvis and to additional tissue in her leg. With that reoccurrence, her survival rate dropped to 20%.

“She was devastated, her siblings were devastated,” Jennifer says. “It was worse than the first diagnosis because with the first you have a set of guidelines to follow. Now you ran this whole marathon and you’re told you have to keep running, and we don’t know how long the rest of your journey will be.”

After a tremendous amount of suffering and trauma, Lizzy passed away in Jennifer’s arms at 3:30 a.m. on March 15, 2018.

In death, Lizzy’s light and legacy continue. Through her selflessness, there is hope that other children and families can be spared the horror and trauma that she and her family experienced.

“Before she passed away, she didn’t want to see another child suffer and she didn’t want another child to hear that there is nothing more the doctors can do, and she wanted to donate her body to St. Jude’s,” Jennifer says. “When she passed away, they removed tumors from her lungs, legs and hips and they are now researching those tumors on 9 different continents. We hope they will find a cure for children.”

In Lizzy’s memory, the Wampler family created Lizzy’s Walk of Faith Foundation to raise money for pediatric cancer research and to help other families through their cancer journeys. On Saturday, September 17, the Wampler family will celebrate Lizzy’s life during Lizzy’s Fifth Annual Walk of Faith 5K Walk/Run. “We felt like Columbia grieved with us, and because of that support, we wanted to do something to give back, because that was Lizzy’s heart,” Jennifer says. “We created her foundation to continue her legacy of love and faith.”

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The Loos Family

T

his past winter, Rhyan Loos took her last trip to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

She got the news that she no longer needed to return for scans. It was the first time since 2015 that her parents, Jen and Brad Loos, could breathe a sigh of relief.

When the Loos family arrived in Columbia in 2014 for Brad’s new job as an assistant basketball coach at MU, Jen says they were excited for the move and for all that lay ahead for their family. Rhyan started kindergarten the following year, and out of the blue, she began limping, and her mental state began to change.

“She was always outgoing and happy and it switched, and she went from being outgoing to being clingy and cranky,” Jen says. “Looking back, I realize it was because she was in chronic pain. All the pieces fit together now.”

After an X-ray at the pediatrician and a follow-up appointment with a juvenile arthritis specialist, the doctors were certain that Rhyan was suffering from arthritis. But Jen’s intuition was nagging at her, and she asked if it could be cancer.

“She looked at me like a deer in headlights, but they admitted us and did more tests, and it came to the surface that it wasn’t arthritis,” Jen says. “They originally thought it was Leukemia, but it was stage four Neuroblastoma.”

Over the course of a week, additional testing and scans showed that Rhyan had a solid tumor sitting on her hip, and she was covered in cancer, head to toe.

“We started doing chemo here and during that time, we started researching where the best place was to get treatment,” Jen says. “That’s what you do when it’s your kid. We found a specialized team of doctors in Manhattan at Memorial Sloan Kettering who only saw kids with Neuroblastoma.”

In March 2016, the Loos family flew to New York where Rhyan had surgery to remove the tumor. They continued to fly back and forth for her treatment, and by that summer, she was cancer-free. But on Thanksgiving Day 2016, she relapsed with a tumor in the frontal lobe of her brain.

“It was mother’s intuition,” Jen says. “She had really bad headaches, she was throwing up. We flew back to New York and had a craniotomy to remove the tumor, started over with different treatments, and she has been clear ever since.”

As the mother of a now 12-year-old Rhyan, son Brady (13) and daughter Charli (8), Jen reflects on the weight she carried on her shoulders during Rhyan’s battle. She says she struggled between wanting to be with Rhyan while not missing out on the little things in Brady and Charli’s lives.

“I got to a bad place mentally where I couldn’t function,” Jen says. “I tried to do everything and I got to a place where I couldn’t do everything, but I couldn’t do anything.”

Jen finally asked for help. From her mom, who came up to lend extra hands, and from her doctor, who prescribed medication that was as essential to her as Rhyan’s treatment had been to her.

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“We try and do it all, and with something that catastrophic, that’s going to set you back mentally.

I learned your brain can only hold so much, and I learned how to deal with it, how to prioritize and ask for help.”

— JEN LOOS “We try and do it all, and with something that catastrophic, that’s going to set you back mentally,” Jen says. “I learned your brain can only hold so much, and I learned how to deal with it, how to prioritize and ask for help, and how to dish things off to other people that I couldn’t do.”

Today, Rhyan is active and social. She’s chatty, she loves to go outside and explore, and she’s a nurturer who wants to mother everybody.

How to Support a Family Through Illness and Grief OFFER SUPPORT, NOT ADVICE Trust that the parent has been up at all hours of the night Googling every possible option for their child, and save your medical advice, however important or helpful you think it might be. Unless of course, you’ve been asked for your advice.

“Just be sensitive that they might look like they’re doing great on the outside, but if they’ve gone through any traumatic disease, walk gently with that family, and save the advice for the doctors,” Jennifer Wampler says.

If you want to share something, instead, let that mom or dad know that you see they are doing their very best to care for their child.

PRAY When you don’t know what to do or say, Although she is on growth hormones to counter one of the long-term side effects of chemo and radiation, her sass and spunk are still present.

“She’s always been a little spark since she was little,” Jen says. “That’s the only reason she got through this, because she has so much fire.”

The only reason the Loos family came through their journey with Rhyan with flying colors is the support of the Columbia community.

“Columbia totally embraced us,” Jen says. “We hadn’t been here more than a year.”

In celebration of Rhyan, in appreciation of the Columbia community and in support of other families navigating cancer, the Loos family began Rally for Rhyan, which raises money through various events throughout the year.

The MU basketball team hosts a Rally for Rhyan game each year, which Jen says is still one of the most highly attended games of the season. Rally for Rhyan has raised almost $600,000 in those games, and in total, the organization has raised nearly $800,000.

“To still show up for her and support her now that she’s well, it shows a lot about the town,” Jen says.

“It’s a good place.”

Jennifer suggests offering prayers.

BE MINDFUL OF SIBLINGS A serious illness affects the whole family, including the siblings of a sick child.

“It affects the siblings when all of the attention is going to that one child,” Jennifer says. “Be mindful when you’re interacting with a family going through a trauma like this.

Be mindful of the siblings and what they’re going through.”

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Coming this June!

como

Famous ragtag film society Five prominent Columbians will select a film to show — one night only.

The contestant with the most ticket sales and donations, wins!

Featuring

CHASE THOMPSON IAN CHANG LAWRENCE SIMONSON MIKEL FIELDS MING HSIEH Tuesdays and Thursdays in June.

Learn how to support your contestant at www.ragtagcinema.org

Living

Tanner Ott & Mary Anderson Sometimes an impromptu late night dinner changes everything.

HOW DID YOU MEET?

Mary: The fi rst time I met Tanner was through a mutual friend up in Ely, Minnesota, where I was born and raised. Tanner and his family had been coming up to the area for years to stay on a lake outside of town, and when he graduated college, he came to work in my hometown. It wasn’t until a few years later that we started seeing each other – I was waitressing when he came in to grab a late-night dinner and we ended up going for a game of pool after my shift ended.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST DATE?

Tanner: That impromptu night out led to a coffee date the next weekend. Over coffee, we planned a day trip to Grand Marais off the shores of Lake Superior.

We went to a winery and took a gondola ride to view the fall colors.

WHAT KEEPS YOU BUSY DURING THE WEEK?

M: I really enjoy my job; I teach special education in two elementary schools here in town. I’m also working on my master’s degree and have been able to take advantage of the wonderful trails and community events since moving here.

T: I work with Alley A Realty. We love renovating historic buildings downtown.

After the renovation, we lease them out to small businesses, restaurants, artists, and professionals. Depending on the day, I’ll be on a job site with contractors or architects/engineers, showing properties to prospective businesses, and meeting with current tenants. In between meetings, you can usually find me in a

coffee shop downtown making phone calls or working on the computer.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP?

M: I don’t know that it’s unique, but we have a slight age gap with me being older.

Tanner really seems to enjoy highlighting this to others; I am just so happy I held out and found someone I can laugh with and trust. We have never had any major disagreements – on that day trip that we planned with the dogs, we covered any and all-important discussions during the car ride: stances on politics, religion, finance, children, family – and have always been very open and honest with each other.

WHAT IS THE BEST QUALITY OF YOUR PARTNER?

M: I have roots in the Ojibwe tribe of northern Minnesota and from that heritage comes the seven teachings for being a good person: truth, honesty, wisdom, respect, bravery, love, and courage. Tanner epitomizes all of these things, but I think what he does best is show a genuine interest in whomever he is spending time with. When you talk to him, you can tell he sincerely cares about what is being said or done and actively listens to get to know you better.

T: Mary is incredibly smart. She reads a lot of books and her vocabulary is enormous. I have so much respect for the way she approaches her work and her responsibilities. It’s great to have a partner who you can talk about so many different topics with.

COUPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

volunteering with the True/False festival, going to First Friday events, checking out the Farmer’s Market, and being able to appreciate the local art and murals around town is fantastic.

T: First Fridays are my favorite because you can count on something to look forward to each and every month.

Walking through the catacombs from gallery to gallery, socializing, seeing art, and experiencing live music with some of Columbia’s most interesting folks is a highlight of living in Columbia.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN COLUMBIA?

M: Oof. That’s a tough one. I really enjoy Kampai, Bangkok Gardens, Le Bao, Murry’s, Booche’s, 44 Canteen, 1839 Taphouse, and Flyover. I’m sure there’s a ton of places I haven’t been yet, but any of those choices are solid in my book.

T: Where neon signs hang from air handlers, pool cues line the wall like fine art, and a Norm Stewart signed basketball rests atop the backbar who’s patina is only rivaled by the window-side cooktop. Where the chili is hot and the ground chuck is always fresh: Booche’s.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR THE TWO OF YOU?

T: We’ll be married this summer.

Hopefully expanding the family someday.

I can imagine us old and grey and laughing in rocking chairs by the lake.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ART/CULTURE ACTIVITY IN COLUMBIA?

M: My hometown has a pretty active art community, so coming to Columbia and seeing the North Village Arts District for the fi rst time was really impressive. I love how welcoming this town is.

Attending music venues,

Find more answers f rom Tanner and Mary at comomag.com!

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Providing basic resources for families in need, because we can all use a little help sometimes.

Donate diapers to those in need.

Visit fc4c.org to help.

HIRE OUR JOB SEEKERS

VOLUNTEER AT JOB POINT

MAKE A DONATION

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Every celebration should be captured in paint.

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NOW BOOKING 2023 AND BEYOND!

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Your House. Your Shelter. ®

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908 Rain Forest Pkwy., Ste. C Columbia, MO 65202

573-442-5291

MMesser@ShelterInsurance.com

We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter.

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88 PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Today’s Decisions, Tomorrow’s Success

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ONCE UPON A RELOCATION Children’s retail-resale franchise finds a new storefront it can grow into.

99 HOPE, HEALING, & ADVOCACY How Court Appointed Special Advocates are making an impact in the lives of children in foster care.

We believe in

HOMEGROWN HARD WORK. OVER 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN:

• Government • Education • Business • Greek life • Restaurants • Medical

Design-Build

General Contractor

Development

Construction Manager

Remodeling

1431 Cinnamon Hill Ln., Suite 209 Columbia, MO 65201 | (573) 449-7200

LITTLEDIXIECONSTRUCTION.COM

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CLOSER LOOK

MAY 2022

is also a full bar for simple, mixed cocktails. Broadway also plans to sell packaged beers for to-go orders. The tasting room will be open to the public Thursday to Sunday and available for private events Monday-Wednesday and on the weekend on a case-by-case basis. There are currently no plans to serve food to the public, but private events will be catered. Customers are also welcome to bring in any dish they’d like into the taproom. Owners Walker Claridge, Paul Dickerson, and Shawn Oberle are excited about this new endeavor.

15 SOUTH NINTH STREET BROADWAYBREWERY.COM

Bailey & Blush

Bailey & Blush Boutique, a chic downtown boutique that opened its doors in March, features fashionable women’s apparel and accessories inspired by owner Lauren Bailey’s unique fashion sense. Lauren, 25, is a Lake St. Louis native and a 2019 graduate of Southeast Missouri State University, earning a Bachelor’s of Fashion and Consumer Studies and a minor in entrepreneurship.

“I opened Bailey & Blush because owning my own boutique has always been a dream of mine,” Lauren said. “It's something I can pour all of my passions and talents into, a business that I get to call my own. I knew I was never going to be a 9-to-5 worker; it just isn't me. I was determined that whatever I do in life, I was going to be waking up every day doing something I loved.”

Lauren holds the Bailey & Blush name very close to her heart. “I wanted my last name somewhere within the name of the business because the name Bailey isn't something I'll keep forever, and this is my way of always honoring that,” Lauren says.

“I wanted my last name on the sign out front so that's exactly what I did. Blush is just because I love the color pink!”

Lauren's goal is to help Columbia women feel more confident and empowered to pursue their own dreams and goals. Her hope is to bring clothing people love to Columbia and give her customers a truly enjoyable and unforgettable shopping experience.

913 EAST BROADWAY (573) 442-3939 SHOPBAILEYANDBLUSH.COM

Broadway on 9th

Broadway Brewery is most known for its farm-to-table menu and wide selection of traditional lagers, hazy IPAs, and other beer choices. Broadway on 9th, Broadway Brewery's new taproom and event space, opened last month and features their beer and seltzer offerings in a more casual taproom environment – complete with a beautiful 16-foot garage door that opens right up to the Ninth Street sidewalk. The new space serves 14 Broadway drafts, including Nitro beer, a special Czech Lager, three flavors of Clear State Hard Seltzer, and wine. There

The Atrium

The Atrium is excited to welcome new co-owners, Leanne Geiss and Josiah and Amaya Williams, into its historic space. Rounding out the team is Ellie LaPosha, an event professional and marketing specialist, and Kaylei Ramis, an experienced event professional and sales manager.

Eclipse Catering and Events has an incredibly skilled team of event professionals and seasoned chefs with years of experience and an eagerness to serve Columbia. The biggest change comes with the Williamses, who will serve as in-house caterers focused on Columbia’s high-end event market. On top of providing The Atrium’s in-house catering, the new management team is ready to build The Atrium into a recognizable pillar of Columbia’s downtown community. “We are excited to share the history of the space and perfect the little details, both inside and out, that will continue to make the Atrium shine,” says Ellie.

22 NORTH TENTH STREET (573) 442-8220 THEATRIUMONTENTH.COM

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Photo Provided by Missouri State Parks/Missouri State Museum

Briefly in the News M AY 202 2

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COMMUNITY

New SHSMO Art Gallery Exhibit Showcases Missouri's Mark in the Fashion Industry A new exhibit featuring the 200-plus year evolution of Missouri style and the important role of its apparel industry will be featured at the State Historical Society of Missouri Art Gallery through June at the Center for Missouri Studies, 605 Elm St., Columbia. The MOda 200: Missouri Style Makers, Merchants & Memories exhibit is a collaboration between the State Historical Society and The Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection of MU’s Department of Textile and Apparel Management.

The free exhibition features clothing, artwork, and accessory artifacts of the industry from rural dressmakers to urban retail and manufacturing giants in the state.

“Missouri’s apparel history is often overlooked as an important part of the state’s economic growth,” said Nicole Johnston, curator of the Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection. “So, we’re bringing attention to that history from its earliest forms of dress, represented by a Native American beaded vest from MU’s Museum of Anthropology, to its most recent— a hand-sewn gold sequin gown worn last fall as part of Rock Bridge High School’s Homecoming festivities.”

Missouri became a world leader of fur and stylish footwear, and the nation’s largest manufacturer of junior dresses. It was also the secondlargest garment and millinery producer in the country. The public is invited to visit MOda 200: Missouri Style Makers, Merchants & Memories exhibit

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during regular visitor hours at the SHSMO Art Gallery Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

G IVI N G B AC K

Early Literacy Program, Books ‘N Bags, Receives Grants Books ‘N Bags, a program of Rollins Reading Company, is an early literacy program that nurtures lifelong literacy through book choices and ownership.

Books ‘N Bags provides new and gently used books and one-of-a-kind handmade book bags to Columbia Public Schools kindergartners that meet certain eligibility criteria. In the 2021-22 school year, grants from Boone Electric Community Trust ($4,100) and The Missouri United Methodist Church Foundation ($2,210) supported the purchase of new books for the program and allowed Books ‘N Bags to expand from five to seven schools. The fun, handmade book bags are made by community sewers at Appletree Quilting Center and Quilt 4 U, sewing classes at Rock Bridge High School, and other generous bag makers. The teachers and kindergartners love the program, and the students are excited to read the books they chose to take home in their bags.

COM M UNITY

Heart of Missouri United Way Surpasses $3 Million Community Campaign Goal Heart of Missouri United Way has announced a successful 2021 Community Campaign with over $3.1 million being raised in support of breaking down barriers to health, education, and financial stability for the most vulnerable Mid-Missourians.

“Every donation, large and small, to this campaign creates more opportunities for so many individuals to succeed.

Without the ongoing support of our donors, our work wouldn’t be possible,” said Andrew Grabau, president and CEO of Heart of Missouri United Way. “It was especially exciting to accomplish this goal during our 75th year serving Mid-Missouri.”

Between July 2019 and December 2021, 63,318 people were directly served by Heart of Missouri United Way-funded programs. Of those served, 96% are at or below the 200% Federal Poverty Level. Additionally, Heart of Missouri United Way funding provided 530,801 service hours to the community. One of the key areas of success this year was made by local companies that conduct employeebased fundraising campaigns early in the fall. This group of 34 companies, known as Pacesetter companies, raised $1,500,842 for the 2021 campaign.

This number represents a 27.5% increase over 2020 Pacesetter total.

BRIEFLY IN THE NEWS

Order of the Purple Heart Society in 2019, and boasts the second-largest national chapter of the SALUTE honor society for veterans at 1,903 members.

The college recently expanded its Ousley Family Veterans Service Center, moving to the newly refurbished Brig.

Gen. Charles E. McGee ’78 House. The veterans service center offers on-site and virtual services as well. More than 600 Columbia College employees have received Green Zone training and stand ready to assist militaryconnected students on their academic journey. More than 20,000 of the college’s 95,000 alumni around the world are military-affiliated.

COMMUNITY

City Awards Grant to CoMo Cooks

CELEB RATION

Columbia College Named Third-Most Military Friendly College in U.S. Columbia College was recently ranked among the top 10 institutions in the country for military-affiliated students by MilitaryFriendly.com. The college earned the No. 3 rank for private, non-doctoral-degree institutions by the organization, which advocates on behalf of service members, veterans, and their families.

“We are proud to continue our strong relationship with the U.S. Armed Forces and are grateful for this prestigious honor,” said Dr. David Russell, president of Columbia College and a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel.

“The college has served active and reserve service members, veterans, and military families for nearly 50 years.

The opportunity to support those who sacrifice for our country is something we take very seriously.”

Columbia College was named a Purple Heart College by the Military

The Columbia City Council awarded the CoMo Cooks Shared Kitchen a $250,000 grant for a new kitchen on the Business Loop. This award will help with construction and equipment costs and provide funding for scholarships for minority-owned, food-based startups.

CoMo Cooks believes all good cooks deserve a chance to turn their recipes into reality, regardless of background, income, or status. Their mission is to provide an accessible, diverse, and affordable kitchen space for local food-based businesses and smallbatch producers.

A traditional kitchen costs between $275,000 and $500,000 to build and equip. Using CoMo Cooks, clients can start a business for about $1,500 plus $17 per hour or less. CoMo Cooks helps provide an affordable startup space for food industry workers who have been displaced or who are shifting to a post-COVID business model.

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28th annual presented by The Trust Company

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Awards: First Mid Bank & Trust

Beverages: Serenity Valley Winery

Gold: Commerce Bank, Dave Griggs Flooring America, First State Community Bank, Veterans United Home Loans

Video Production: KOMU 8 & Mid Missouri’s CW

Location: Stephens College Catering: American Dining Creations/ Stephens College

Media: COMO Magazine, Cumulus Media, Inc., KMOS-TV Missouri PBS, MAAD Creative, LLC,

Livestream: A2D Events

The Columbia Missourian

Floral: DogMaster Distillery

Shelter Insurance Companies

Decor: Andrea Lyn Events

Design Sponsor:

Printing Sponsor:

Visionworks

THANK YOU!

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

MAY 2022

WE LCOME HOME , I NC .

Welcome Home, Inc. announced its 2022 officers and three new additions to its board of directors: Robert Boone, Jennifer Sticken, and Joanie Mains. Board members serve 3-year terms at Welcome Home, Inc. and officers are elected annually. The board is the organization’s governing body and it acts as fiduciaries who advise the organization in adopting sound, ethical, and legal governance and financial management policies. The group also makes sure Welcome Home, Inc. has the necessary resources to advance its missions.

“We are also excited to share that Jenny Lorenz-Rudkin has been elected by her peers to serve as Welcome Home’s 2022 Board President and is our very first female board president since the organization’s inception,” executive director Megan Sievers states. “Jenny not only volunteers her time and talent to the cause, but she and her family have been generous donors for many years. We are beyond grateful to have her leadership, skills, and passion at the helm this year.”

BU RRELL BE HAVIORAL H EALTH

Stacye Smith Stacye will serve on the board of directors in the Central Region. Stacye has worked for Shelter Insurance Companies since 1987, starting in the underwriting department and now serving as the vice president of human resources. She’s served

on boards of directors for the Inclusive Impact Institute, Boys and Girls Club of Columbia, the Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Boone Health Governance Board.

Ashley AngererBlunt, LPC, NCC Ashley was hired as director of outpatient services for Burrell’s 10-county service area in central Missouri. She brings a history of implementing innovative clinical programming among diverse settings and experiences, leading teams, and prioritizing both clinician wellness and client wellness. Ashley most recently worked at Community Mental Health for Central Michigan and supervised an integrated healthcare team.

Dr. Garima Singh Dr. Singh, chief medical officer for Burrell Behavioral Health, is one of 22 women in the U.S. to have been welcomed into the Carol Emmott Fellowship Class of 2022. The Carol Emmott Fellowship is a prestigious 14-month experience for exceptional and innovative women leaders who are making lasting change in their communities and institutions. Dr. Singh was one of four awarded full scholarships to advocate for and increase participation of women from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

Dr. Seth Allen Dr. Allen, director of autism services for Burrell Behavioral Health, was recently appointed to the Missouri Autism Commission, which advises and makes recommendations to the governor, general assembly,

and state agencies on matters relating to autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Allen’s passion, leadership, and expertise will be extended to the entire state of Missouri as he works to create more access to care.

Joshua Bade Joshua, general counsel for Burrell Behavioral Health, was named a winner of the Top 50 Corporate Counsel Award from OnConferences.

He was selected by his peers in the legal community across the U.S. Voters chose corporate counsel who they felt demonstrated a good mix of success and positive impact on their organization, made strong contributions to the legal community through thought leadership, were innovative, and exhibited great leadership.

ELIZABETH HERRERA E I C H E N B E R GE R

Stephens College has hired Elizabeth Herrera Eichenberger as executive director of Mission Promise Kept, the first comprehensive college program designed to meet the full spectrum of living and learning needs of our nation’s women veterans. Elizabeth will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative activities of the program and driving the success of its many service-related programs.

Elizabeth has a decade of diverse nonprofit leadership experience.

Most recently, she served as executive director of True North of Columbia. Elizabeth earned her master's degree in nonprofit management at Florida Atlantic University.

LO R E NZ -R U DK IN

SM ITH

ANG E R E R -BLU NT

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BA DE

HE R R E R A EICHE NBE R G E R

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CELEBR ATIONS

Once Upon A Relocation Children's retail-resale f ranchise f inds a new storef ront it can grow into.

BY HANNAH ROBERTSON PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

I

t’s no mystery that raising a child is expensive; to the point that some people feel they should forgo having children for that reason alone. Children’s retail items are already costly, but when you factor in how quickly children outgrow these items and multiply those costs by the number of children in any given household, the financial toll can quickly add up. That’s where Once Upon A Child comes in to help.

Once Upon A Child is a children’s retail-resale franchise that buys and sells children’s clothes from preemie-sized to youth 18-20 as well as shoes, toys, and equipment. The store allows families to save money by purchasing quality clothing and merchandise at an average of 6070% off retail and put money back in their pockets by reselling their gently used children’s items. The typical price point for clothing is $1.50-4.50, which store manager, Christina Kyle, and manager-in-training, Erin Zumwalt, say they often get comments about from customers. “We can’t tell you how many times people have told us going to a traditional retail store would only allow them to buy one thing, but with us, they can buy 10”.

Purchasing children’s items, especially clothing, that are resale has a positive impact on the environment as well as on individual wallets. Fast fashion (i.e., when businesses in the clothing industry focus on rapidly producing high volumes of clothing that replicate high fashion designs at a low cost) is a dangerous trend that has taken over. Businesses have to cut corners to create such inexpensive styles 80

MAY 2022

September 2, 2015 Once Upon A Child first opened in Columbia to buy only.

October 22, 2015

Once Upon A Child’s grand opening for buying and selling.

January 9-12, 2022 Once Upon A Child closed to move locations; completed the entire move in four days!

January 13, 2022

Grand opening in their new space on Nifong.

at high volumes and frequencies, and they do so by using low-quality materials and often times child labor.

As a result of fast fashion, according to Earth.org, the industry consumes more carbon dioxide than aviation and shipping combined. The website also states that 92 million tons of clothes-related waste are discarded every year and that more than $500 billion are lost every year due to the lack of recycling and clothing utilization.

Shopping at resale stores such as Once Upon A Child is a more sustainable choice for consumers while giving new life to gently used items. As a franchise, Once Upon a Child is proud to report that it has kept “over 800 million children’s items out of landfi lls since 1993.”

With more than 380 locations in the U.S. and Canada, Once Upon A Child is North America’s top children’s resale franchise, though each store is independent and locally owned and operated. According to Christina, Once Upon A Child has paid almost $4 million directly to customers since opening in the fall of 2015. That money allows families to invest in other things they want/need, circling right back into our local economy.

Christina has been there since the beginning, working her way

up from being a entry-level employee to becoming the store manager in 2020. She watched fi rsthand as the store grew in popularity, and by the time she took over as store manager, the store had outgrown the original space on Broadway.

Once Upon A Child team has been planning to move for a few years, but things did not officially set in motion until 2021. Th is past January, the store’s dedicated staff moved more than 3,000 bins of merchandise in just four days. The new space on Nifong is 15,000 square feet, three times bigger than their previous location.

“The space itself is huge and bright; there’s just so much more room. In the last space, the aisles were getting pretty cramped. Sale days are much more bearable here, and being in a new part of Columbia has brought in tons of people who never knew we existed before!”

Christina says.

Now that they have the bright shiny space, they’re looking to fi ll it! While equipment items and toys are in their highest demand, there is a need for all children’s items.

ONCE UPON A CHILD 205 E. NIFONG BLVD, STE. 110 (573) 445-1151 ONCEUPONACHILD.COM @ONCEUPONACHILDCOMO

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia Mission: To provide a comfortable home where the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our guests and their families are met with compassion, love, and respect 24/7.

Caring Hearts, Hands, and Humans End-of-life personal care home “Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia” is coming soon.

Board Officers: • Patrick Lee Chairman • Dorreen Rardin Vice Chairman • Cindy Daugherty Secretary • Kristen Dean Treasurer

BY HANNAH ROBERTSON | PHOTOS BY KEITH BORGMEYER

Other Board Members

T

hough it’s difficult to think about, we all wonder what our last days will look like. According to Stanford University’s School of Medicine, studies have shown that approximately 80% of Americans indicate a desire to pass peacefully in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by loved ones. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, many don’t have that option. Studies also show that 60% of Americans die in acute care hospitals, 20% in nursing homes, and 20% at home.

Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia exists to provide the solutions needed so individuals can have the peaceful final days they envision having.

Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia (CHHC) is an inclusive, non-denominational, end-of-life home dedicated to pro82

MAY 2022

• Amy Bowers

viding round-the-clock comfort and support to dying individuals and their loved ones. End-of-life homes (also known as comfort care homes, homes for the dying, and social model hospice homes) are staffed by trained, paid staff members and community volunteers that provide 24-hour care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their guests. These homes work with local hospice providers that can care for physical demands so CHHC staff can focus on providing the tender care these patients need. Th is includes cleaning, cooking, comforting, and anything else the person or their family may require.

Th is takes the burden of caregiving away from loved ones and allows them to focus on creating precious moments.

• Robert Doroghazi MD • Willis (Bill) Kollars • Chad Moller • Deborah Portell • Jackie Reed RN • Olivia Swanson • Leslie Willey PHD Advisory Committee Members • Jennifer Beshears • Laurie Hines JD • Jim Meyer • Theresa Rardin

The organization’s co-founders, Dorreen Rardin and Jackie Reed, are both retired registered nurses who met and became friends while working at Boone Hospital. The pair have a combined 70-plus years of nursing experience, including intensive and palliative care. In fact, Dorreen started the Palliative Care Program at Boone 20 years ago following the difficult death of her brother. “I wanted others to receive better treatment than what he got. I was his caregiver, and I realized that in the end, I hadn’t made any time to say goodbye to him myself”.

Palliative care is a specialized form of medical care that focuses on providing relief to symptoms of stress and serious illness to patients. The goal of palliative care is not based on a person’s prognosis or finding a cure, but instead on improving the quality of life for both the patient and their loved ones.

The women shared concerns about how few resources exist for end-of-life care. Through their personal and professional experiences, they both witnessed fi rsthand the lack of available options for people who are dying and the difficult position it puts loved ones in. Dorreen had been considering a community home for patients since her retirement, and she knew that Jackie was the perfect person to help make it a reality. Jackie was fully on board, “seeing their plan as a fi x.”

There are several reasons why a person cannot live and eventually pass in their own homes. Often, it’s because they do not have adequate caregiver resources at home. Sometimes it’s because there are no loved ones around to do so or their loved ones simply aren’t able, and sometimes because it’s not affordable.

The Missouri Department of Insurance reported that the annual average cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home in 2017 was near $58,000, the cost of staying in an assisted living facility was close to $2,700 per month, the average hourly rate for a home health aide or a homemaker was nearly $20, and the average daily rate of an adult day care is near $70.”

These exorbitant costs can lead people into bankruptcy, but CHHC’s free or sliding-scale pricing (though both co-founders hope to be able to provide free care) offers families an alternative, less expensive option. They will be funded by donations and grants from the community.

According to Pew Research and the Social Security Administration, 10,000 Baby Boomers retire each day. As these men and women age into seniority, the already understaffed healthcare industry will feel an inevitable strain. As what the co-founders described as a “silver tsunami” hits, utilizing volunteers and retired healthcare professionals like Dorreen and Jackie, will be crucial. They hope to have 40-plus volunteers on staff, including nighttime caregivers.

Jackie and Dorreen have been working towards opening CHHC since 2019. In January 2020, they officially became a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and their current target is to open in the fi rst quarter of 2023. To do so, they will need volunteers and $150,000-200,000 in donations. To support CHHC in either of these ways, be sure to visit their website.

The home will be located at 1307 W Broadway, which is still occupied by St.Raymond’s Society for the time being. The co-founders consider finding their soon-to-be space an absolute blessing.

“We’ve been waiting for an angel, and they came through.”

CARING HEARTS AND HANDS OF COLUMBIA 1307 W. BROADWAY CARINGHEARTANDHANDS.ORG COMOMAG.COM

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NOW BOOKING 2023!

Be enchanted by the beauty and serenity of our French-inspired gardens.

AND WE HAVE A FEW SPOTS OPEN FOR 2022!

PA C K A G E S AVA I L A B L E

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Bridal Party Cottage Groomsmen Preparation Area Ceremony Arbor 200 Padded White Chairs Reception Tables Lighting & Electricity Outdoor Sound System Multiple Restroom Facilities Parking Attendants

ASecretPlaceEvents.com 15663 Graff Drive, Jamestown MO | Phone: 816-833-6505

BIG PINEY RIVER

Today 9:16 AM

“Can’t talk. Taking some time to brush up on my skills!”

CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULE. GET TO PULASKI COUNTY, MO! Gentle rivers full of twists and turns, spectacular Ozark scenery, and phenomenal fishing make for a fantastic outdoor adventure! But that only scratches the surface of all Pulaski County offers. Fill up on tales as old as time at our historic military and Route 66 stops. Test your skills at archery, golf, indoor shooting, and more. Grab delicious eats and treats at our unique diners. en do it all again as you work your way through our day-a er-day adventures.

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Plan your trip at pulaskicountyusa.com.

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PERSON YOU SHOULD KNOW

Amanda Jacobs Owner and Asset Manager, Jacobs Property Management PHOTO BY A NT HO NY J I NS O N

JOB DESCRIPTION

I lead an incredible team in the managing of more than 450 residential rental properties for more than 50 different private property owners. It’s my job to maintain these real estate investments in such a way that the property owners are seeing a return on their investment and that the residents that live in the homes are comfortable and happy.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

As a third-generation company owner, I have been involved with real estate and property management since I was 15 years old. I am a 2003 Stephens College graduate with a BS in Mass Communication: Public Relations. I am a licensed Real Estate Broker, and I’m the only REALTOR® in COMO to hold a Certified Property Manager (CPM®) designation.

HOMETOWN

COMO YEARS LIVED IN COMO

All my life.

QUOTE YOU LIVE BY

“Do Less, Better” Chris Oakley (1982-2019) FAVORITE VOLUNTEER/ COMMUNITY ACTIVITY

I serve on the Board of Directors and on the Development Committee for The Center Project which is COMO’s LGBTQ+ community resource center.

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PERSON YOU SHOULD KNOW

THOUGHTS ON WORKING WITH FAMILY

Family business can be hard, but I have had a great experience. My father and late grandfather always trusted me enough to let me try out new ideas within our company, which allowed us to expand and grow. My dad and I have great communication and trust as business partners, and we’re able to maintain healthy family/business boundaries.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION

A number of years ago, my mom’s side of the family stopped exchanging Christmas gifts. Instead, we take a family vacation every other year over Christmas or New Years! Disney World is our favorite place to celebrate!

FAVORITE RECENT PROJECT

I cleaned out all my closets, drawers, and cabinets over spring break. Can’t say it’s my favorite thing to do, but the end result always feels great!

A COMO BUSINESS PERSON YOU ADMIRE AND WHY

There are so many! However, Justin Riley, owner of Dryer’s Shoes, is someone that I really admire. He is a third-generation business owner like myself, and I love how he honors his family legacy every day by consistently selling quality shoes and providing excellent customer service.

I personally recommend the Olukai flip flops that he sells, I have purchased more pairs than I can count!

WHY YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR JOB

I have always had a heart for residential real estate investment. There is nothing more rewarding than handing the keys to a new resident on move-in day or sending a property owner their monthly proceeds check. Providing quality housing in the rental market and helping property owners achieve a return on their investment brings me great joy.

THE NEXT CHALLENGE FACING YOUR INDUSTRY

The real estate industry is crazy right now, and rentals are no exception.

Rent rates for upcoming properties are literally changing on a daily basis as supply and demand changes. This can be frustrating for renters looking for a 86

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new home as properties are moving very quickly and the prices can change from one day to the next. And the cost of goods and services has increased dramatically, so property owners don’t always know what to expect regarding expenses on their properties for things like painting, maintenance, cleaning, mowing, etc.

There are just a lot of moving parts in the market right now.

WHY YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR COMPANY

I’m passionate about my company being the very best at what we do in COMO. I have an amazing team surrounding me every day, and we contract with the absolute best vendors. Iron sharpens iron, and our company is as sharp as a blade!

IF YOU WEREN’T DOING THIS FOR A LIVING, YOU WOULD

I think that I would enjoy working at a museum of some sort. I’m fascinated by all kinds of history, and it would be interesting to be surrounded by it every day and to teach other people about it.

WHAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION

I want people to know that property managers truly have the best interest of all parties in mind, and that we do everything we can to ensure that both the property owner and the resident living in the home are well taken care of.

YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL GOAL

My next goal is to continue working on “Doing Less, Better.” I don’t have to do it all, but I want to be the best at what I choose to do.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED IN BUSINESS

MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW

I’m a huge New Kids on the Block fan!

(Unless we’re friends on Facebook, then you know!)

GREATEST WEAKNESS

Sometimes it takes me a while to really trust someone.

WHAT YOU DO FOR FUN

Anything that involves hanging out with my friends. I also love to travel!

WHO MAKES UP YOUR FAMILY

The biggest lesson I have learned in business is how important it is to have a tribe of supportive peers around you.

You need those individuals to both cheer you on in the good times and support you through the rough times.

My teenager, River, is an honors student at Rock Bridge. We have two cats named Moana and Lumiere. My mom, her wife, and my brother are an active part of our lives, and I see my dad every day at the office!

HOW YOU WANT TO IMPACT THE COMO COMMUNITY

Any restaurant patio on a beautiful day!

I want to continue to help COMO be a safe and affirming place.

ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF

GREATEST STRENGTH

I’m not shy. I can speak on the fly with ease, even to large crowds.

FAVORITE PLACE IN COMO

Being named the 2016 REALTOR® of the Year for the Columbia Board of REALTORS® and being named as part of the 2017 COMO Magazine 20 Under 40 class.

Among the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a running to-do list of time sensitive tasks that need to be completed, financial planning and estate planning might become low on the priority list. But when it comes to preparing for the future, there is no time like the present.

For families with dependent children, planning for the future with an estate plan, which includes a solid financial blueprint, becomes even more important.

BY L AU R E N S A B L E F RE IM AN

PL A NNING FOR THE FUTU RE

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E S TATE PL A NNING “Estate planning is a term that gets thrown around, and many people are unfamiliar with it or have misconceptions about it,” says Nathan Jones, an attorney at Jones & Ueligger Law. “A lot of people who might not be familiar think it is meant for rich people to plan out their estate, and they conjure up these visions of people with mansions, but really, it’s a plan that says if something were to happen, this is where I want my assets to go, and who I want to be in charge of them.”

When creating an estate plan, Nathan says there are typically three main goals — making sure wills and trusts take care of the kids, avoiding probate (i.e., a court process that is triggered when the proper planning isn’t in place), and formalizing power of attorney documents that address fi nancial and healthcare matters.

WILL S

TRUS T S

A will is how parents name a guardian for their kids. Having a will in place is the only way to prepare for the unexpected, because once a will becomes necessary, it is too late to create one.

“For families with young kids, it’s especially important to plan because it is the opportunity for parents to exercise their rights as to who would become the guardian of their kids should something happen,” Nathan says.

Often, people with young kids name their own parents as guardians in their will. Nathan suggests that a good estate plan will include at least one backup, which is often a much harder choice.

“You might have an idea of who you want to be the guardian, but you don’t consider what happens if the fi rst choice can’t do it,” Nathan says. “In five or 10 years, parents could be dealing with health issues of their own, so it might become necessary to revisit the guardian decision,” he says.

A trust formalizes how kids, or other beneficiaries, inherit money. The need for a trust is less about how much money you have and more about protecting beneficiaries while accomplishing the goals you have in mind, Nathan says.

“To what degree are you comfortable with your kids inheriting your money at 18 if something happens to you,” Nathan says. “Without a plan in place, your kids get your money at 18. A trust prevents someone else from getting your money besides your kids, but also prevents the money from being dumped in their laps and it going poof.”

A trust should be revisited as you accumulate wealth over the years.

“It is important to revisit these documents every 3-5 years because these types of documents are amendable and they are designed to be updated over time as life goes on,” Nathan says. “It’s your kids and your assets that you’ve been working for your whole life, and it’s worth making sure it’s done right.”

“The decisions you make about your financial plan today will determine how successful you are tomorrow. We call it financial planning instead of a financial plan, because nothing remains static.”

- P O L LY R E Y N O L D S

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FIN A NCI A L PL A NNING

P OWE R OF AT TORNE Y While wills and trusts become important upon death, a power of attorney accounts for things that can happen during your lifetime. Most power of attorney documents cover fi nancial matters, but a power of attorney also covers matters related to healthcare.

“A power attorney says that is I’m in an accident or have a health event, or if

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something is preventing me from making decisions and speaking on my own behalf, this is who I want to do that for me,” Nathan says.

As each of these documents are legal documents that must be valid in the state of Missouri, Nathan says it is best to create them with an attorney who focuses their practice on estate planning.

Creating a financial plan means that you’re planning for your financial health today, be it 10 years down the line, during retirement, and after death. Before you can consider any of that, you have to start with a budget.

“Before you can do any planning, you have to have a plan for the money you’re making before it hits your checking account,” says Polly Reynolds, senior vice president and trust officer at The Trust Company. “If you don’t have a solid picture of the money that’s coming in and the money that’s going out, that’s not a plan.”

When you have a family, financial planning includes things like college, weddings and retirement, as well as other things that may be coming down the road.

“People put this off, but it is never too late to take the next right step forward, to do the right thing,” Polly says. “The goals are different for everybody, but there are basic needs, wants and wishes.”

While some families might be working towards home ownership, others might be planning for a vacation home, or planning to tithe money to different charities. No matter the goal, a financial plan prepares you to get from point A to point B. Based on your goals, a financial planner can help determine how to invest assets to meet those goals.

“The decisions you make about your financial plan today will determine how successful you are tomorrow,” Polly says. “We call it financial planning instead of a financial plan, because nothing remains static. Your income changes, what you’re putting into your 401(k) changes, so we meet with clients every year to update it.”

E ME RG E NCY FU ND Emergency funds are a crucial component of financial planning.

“If you have a stable income, your emergency fund should be three months of expenses, which is very different than income,” Polly says. “If you’re in sales where your income fluctuates, you should have six months of expenses set aside.”

Emergency funds should be saved in a money market savings account rather than invested in the stock market.

Although the savings account doesn’t pay much interest, the money should be easily accessible.

“You don’t want that in the market because if you need it in an emergency and the market is down, you’ll sell it at a loss,” Polly says. “You don’t want to be forced to take money out of your investments when they’re low because it is very difficult to recover from those realized losses.”

Most importantly, if you take money out of your emergency funds, Polly says you have to replenish the account until it is built back up.

INSU R A NCE When you have dependents relying on you to provide for them with your income, insurance is another key component of financial planning.

“I recommend term-life insurance for younger families to make sure if something happens to a parent, there will be money to help continue to raise the children and get them through college,” Polly says. “If one parent stays home, people ask why they would need to have life insurance since that parent isn’t earning an income. A surviving parent has to pay someone for everything that parent was doing — laundry, meals, all the services the stayat-home parent provides. You can’t assume that because you don’t have an income, you don’t need life insurance.”

FIN A NCI A L PL A NNING FOR K IDS It’s never too early to teach kids about money, and teaching kids how to save and spend responsibly is a skill that will stay with them throughout life.

“We are in a credit card culture, and everyone wants immediate gratification,” Polly says. “People are swamped with credit card debt at very high interest rates and that is very hard to get out of.”

If a kid wants a new skateboard, Polly suggests helping them slowly put money aside. Th is approach helps teach them that when they want something, they should save for it.

If a kid wants to earn money by doing tasks around the house, Polly suggests having a conversation about their plans for the money. One effective approach is encouraging kids to give some money to a charity, save half and spend half of what’s left.

“Th is shows them from an early age how they can plan and save for things they want.”

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dreams THE STUFF

ARE MADE OF

The City of Columbia’s Home Ownership Assistance Program and Community Land Trust help make a part of the American Dream come true.

BY M I C HE L L E T E R HU NE

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H

ome ownership may be the most visible symbol of achieving the American Dream. For some people, however, there may be significant barriers standing between them and the keys to a place of their own.

Communities are stronger when more people are homeowners. Studies show that homeowners are healthier, more engaged members of their community, and that children living in these homes tend to do better in school and stay out of trouble. Homeowners build more wealth over time and stabilize their neighborhoods.

The City of Columbia and the Columbia Community Land Trust are working to increase the number of people who own homes in Columbia by addressing affordability issues facing low-to-moderate income fi rst-time homebuyers. They’re setting dreamers up for success.

“A” IS FOR AFFORDABILITY The City of Columbia’s Housing Programs Division is fully funded by two major grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

According to Darcie Clark, housing specialist with the City, the Division uses HUD funding to target affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, and economic development benefitting low-to-moderate income residents buying homes in the city limits.

For potential fi rst-time homebuyers in that demographic, the Home Ownership Assistance Program provides forgivable loans from $5,000 to $10,000 to be used for closing costs.

The Columbia Community Land Trust is a community-based nonprofit organization governed by a board of directors. Representatives on the board are divided into equal thirds of community leaders, neighborhood representatives, and former Land Trust program participants.

The trust owns the land on which homes are built which helps keep home prices more affordable. Those who purchase a home through the trust have their mortgage reduced to 80% of the sales price, so they begin ownership with 20% equity in their home.

To be eligible for either program (you can only choose one), residents must meet income requirements set by HUD. Those currently range from a high of $45,750 for

a single-person household to $86,300 for a household of eight. Maximum purchase prices for existing homes range from $177,000 for a one-bedroom house to $340,000 for a four-bedroom house. For newly constructed homes, the range is from $243,000-$467,000.

Assistance Program participants must have a combined average credit score of 600 or higher and can’t have more than $15,000 in assets such as bank and investment accounts. They must pay at least $500 in cash toward the home’s purchase.

Because these programs reduce the cash required to get into a home, the houses need to be in good shape. In other words, participants can’t buy a fi xer upper.

CONFRONTING THE CASH CRUNCH “One of the biggest barriers to home ownership is down-payment funds,” says Lynn Limback, vice president of mortgage loans for Central Bank of Boone County. “It’s a problem for buyers, no matter where they’re looking for a home.”

That down payment requires cash based on the type of loan funding and the price of the home. For most conventional home loans, a down payment of 20% of the sales price is required to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). Loans financed through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac currently require a 3% down payment, and Federal Housing Authority (FHA) loans are 3.5%. That’s $4,500 to $30,000 on a $150,000 home.

Buyers need another 3-6% of the sales price in cash to pay for closing costs. Closing costs are the processing fees paid to the mortgage lender, such as fees for title searches, appraisals, and points on the mortgage. For that $150,000 house, that’s another $4,500 to $9,000.

The trust’s 20% equity means the down payment and closing costs are reduced, as is the amount of money the buyer must borrow in a mortgage. The Assistance Program provides cash for closing costs, so the buyer needs to have less saved before they purchase a home. Both programs require the homes be occupied by the homebuyers who forfeit some advantages of the program if they sell.

For example, the Assistance Program’s grant is forgiven after 10 years. If the buyer sells the home before then, a

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This is a great tool in the toolbox to let

people achieve their

home ownership dream a lot earlier than they ever thought they would be able to.

LYNN LIMBACK Vice President Mortgage Loans for Central Bank of Boone County

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MAY 2022

prorated amount of the grant must be repaid, albeit at 0% interest.

“The largest barrier our customers run into for home ownership is having enough funds for a down payment and closing costs,” Lynn says. “The Home Ownership Program allows someone to get into it with less of those upfront costs than they would normally have to try to save for.“ “If I tell someone they will need to save $10,000 to get into a house, they’ll know they can never do that because they live paycheck to paycheck. Th is is a great tool in the toolbox to let people achieve their home ownership dream a lot earlier than they ever thought they would be able to,” Lynn says.

SETTING UP BUYERS FOR SUCCESS “Our calculator takes a look at several different parts, basically to make sure that our homebuyers are successful,” Darcie says. “Th ings like their childcare costs and costs of living in general are important considerations for one’s financial stability. We want to make sure that our assistance amount is appropriate for that household.”

One major indicator of success is whether the prospective homebuyer passes muster to qualify for a loan through a lender. Before applying for the Assistance Program, the buyer must be under contract for the purchase of a home. If the lender finds their income, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio makes them a safe risk for a certain mortgage sum, they’re more likely to be able to get into and keep their home.

Another key to success is the fi rst-time homebuyer’s understanding of what it takes to purchase and maintain a home. That’s why a requirement for the Assistance and the Trust programs is completing a homebuyer education program with a certified HUD housing counselor. That makes Julie Rauch with Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri a very busy individual. She’s currently one of two certified HUD counselors in 38 counties.

“So many people are paying such high rent that they think they can get a house for less,” Julie says. “They don’t think about the money required up front, the closing costs along with the down payment. And that monthly payment may be cheaper than your rent, but once you

become a homeowner, you have other expenses of maintaining the home and replacing things. Those are expenses you need to save for every month so when the times comes, you’re able to pay for them,” she says.

Both Darcie and Julie recommend that residents interested in buying a home begin the HUD education process early so they have the benefit of fully understanding the fi nancial resources they’ll need to be successful homeowners.

Julie says part of the HUD education program is now online which means participants can work at their own pace. When Julie meets with prospective homebuyers in person, she can specifically address areas that buyer needs help with. For example, Julie says some have no idea about all those upfront cash costs. Others need help with finding ways to plan for ongoing maintenance costs. And many have the necessary income to buy a home but may need to spend some time cleaning up their credit and improving their credit scores.

“The Home Ownership Assistance Program helps people who haven’t been able to save much money up until this point. If I can help a potential homeowner understand the importance of being in control of their finances and save for the future, the program can help them get into a home much sooner which allows them to build wealth for their future and have more housing stability,” Julie says.

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE In 2020, the City worked with 50 fi rst-time homebuyers.

Those numbers dipped in 2021 due to the pandemic, but five new homebuyers were serviced in the fi rst quarter of this year.

“With spring and more homes being on the market, we’re already seeing more applications,” Darcie says.

“We’re definitely seeing average home prices going up. So of course, it’s hurting our low- to moderate-income families trying to get into homes that much more.”

Finding assistance with buying a home any time is good news. Finding it when higher prices and mortgage rates threaten your hopes? Now, that’s the stuff dreams are made of.

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HOPE, HEALING & ADVOCACY How Court Appointed Special Advocates are making an impact in the lives of children in foster care.

BY MARY CAIT LYN P O LOVI CH

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“It is no secret that the child welfare system and the court system are heavily overburdened with children who need the safety of foster care,” Kelly Hill, Executive Director of the Heart of Missouri Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), explains. “That is coupled with a pretty significant staffi ng crisis the division is experiencing. The folks who suffer from that are the kids — they don’t get the best treatment they need to move forward and fi nd a safe, permanent home.”

Heart of Missouri CASA is a part of the National CASA/ Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) Association that works to train and support CASA volunteers to be exceptional voices for every abused and neglected child in Boone and Callaway County.

Currently, they are serving just over 50% of the kids in need within those counties, and have a goal of being able to serve at least 75% this year.

At its core, CASA was a Seattle juvenile court judge’s response to constantly having to make really serious, heavy decisions for children without feeling like he had enough objective information.

“When the state steps in and decides they need to remove a child from their home to keep them safe, a lot of people sudden-

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ly come into that child’s life,” Kelly says. “Social workers, attorneys, service providers, therapists and, obviously, the judge.

Our hope is that one of those people can be a CASA.” “While children are in the system, they can experience frequent turnover with the professionals on their team,” Kelly continues. “And they move homes an average of five times. So not only have they experienced the trauma that brought them into foster care, they also experience additional instability and chaos that is the system itself. But when they have a CASA volunteer, they have someone who is stable, consistent and will be there throughout the entire time they are in the system.”

CASA volunteers handle one case at a time. They work an average of 8-12 hours a month, and they commit to staying on the case for at least two years, which is the average amount of time a child is in the system.

“CASA’s are someone that the child can rely on to check on them, advocate for them and tell the court his or her wishes as well as their best interest,” Kelly says. “You know, when a child changes homes it can be scary. And they may not know where

they are going, but they know their CASA volunteer is going to visit and that they are just a phone call away. Just having that adult they can rely on makes such an impact when there is so much change and inconsistency.”

Kelly got connected with Heart of Missouri CASA through one of her Masters of Social Work professors who was on the board for the organization. She has served as the executive director for Heart of Missouri CASA since 2016.

“I’m here because I really believe in what we do. The kids we serve are really some of the most vulnerable in our community, and a lot of people don’t know what they go through,” Kelly says. “Child abuse is a hard topic people don’t usually want to talk about, so it is easy to ignore. But I think these kids deserve the best, and CASA is there to help give them the best opportunity at healing, hope and a good future by advocating for the services they need.”

CASA volunteer Elizabeth McWilliams joined the organization a year ago after seeing the need through her sister’s role as a foster parent in Oregon.

“CASA is there to help give them the best opportunity at healing, hope and a good future by advocating for the services they need.”

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Working

FEATURE

“Her fi rst two kids got placed with her in January 2020, and then the pandemic hit,” Elizabeth explains. “Both of the kids had a lot of needs and services sort of shut down. She had a really hard time advocating for them and getting them the services they needed, as well as having support and resources available for her. I think I just saw fi rsthand the role a CASA can play because she didn’t have anyone.”

Becoming a CASA volunteer comes with extensive support and training. After the application and interview process, volunteers go through a 30-hour training over the course of around six weeks. Classes occur one night a week for three hours. At the end of training, the class goes to observe court and get sworn in by the judge.

“It is complicated what you’re getting involved in, and I didn’t really know the nuances of the system,” Elizabeth says.

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“But they really prepare you. In training you learn about the factors that lead to these situations, trauma and the impact it has on children and their families, the child welfare system, juvenile justice division and the criminal divisions, as well as how all the different pieces fit together.”

“I think we all felt that as volunteers, we didn’t know enough.

But then you get started and you learn as you go and always have the support from your CASA supervisor.” Elizabeth says.

CASA volunteers have all different backgrounds and levels of experience with social work. No matter the background, CASA staff and supervisors are side-by-side with volunteers at every step. Volunteers are never on their own.

“I don’t expect volunteers to be experts on the system, I want them to be experts on the children.” Kelly says. “Once you become an expert on the child and their family, you can be

“We want you to get too attached, it’s a good thing — that’s what these kids need.” their best advocate. The CASA staff are the ones who are the experts for the system and volunteers have, at minimum, monthly check-ins with the staff .”

Being a CASA is a time commitment.

Depending on the month and what is going on in the case, that time commitment can vary. In general, volunteers are asked to visit the children two times a month; once at their placement and the other somewhere in the community like a daycare or school.

“The core part of the CASA’s advocacy is getting to know the kids, visiting them and consistently checking on them,” Kelly says. “A lot of the time they are not eager to trust and it takes awhile for them to see volunteer’s as not just another adult in their life. Consistency and having that relationship is important.”

Additionally, volunteers are a part of the child’s professional team and attend the Family Support Team meetings.

These meetings include the caseworker, CASA, Guardian Ad Litem (the child’s attorney), the parents, the parent’s attorney and the juvenile officer. The goal of these meetings is to ensure that services are being provided to address the needs of the child and that the parents have what they need to address the issues that brought the kids into foster care.

“I think it is important that people understand that, you know, the purpose of the foster care system is to reunify children with their families,” Kelly

explains. “More than half of children reunify with their parents and a large portion of the remaining half typically go with relatives through adoption or guardianship. So it’s about 20-25% who are adopted by a non-relative or who aged out of the system.”

“If at all possible, we think it is important for children to be with their family of origin. If it can be a healthy environment, we think it is the best place for them,” Kelly continues. “The majority of reasons that children enter foster care is because of neglect, parental substance abuse, or mental health issues.

We do see things like physical and sexual abuse, but not to the level people may think. So we work with teams so that ideally parents can get the resources they need as well.”

Family Support Team meetings don’t happen every month, but they happen often. CASA’s also submit reports to the judge and attend court, which happens frequently at the beginning of a case and spread out over time.

Beyond a time commitment, being a CASA is inevitably an emotional commitment, too. Many volunteers are hesitant because of a fear of getting too attached to the kids.

“At one of our training sessions, we had someone ask what we were afraid of,” Elizabeth said. “One person spoke for everyone and said, ‘I’m afraid I’m going to get attached to these kids.’ And

the response surprised me at the time, their answer was: ‘We want you to get too attached, it’s a good thing — that’s what these kids need.’”

CASA’s provide consistent support both with their time and care to children in need. The need is big, but the impact CASA’s have can be even bigger.

“There was a story recently that a staff member told me.” Kelly recalls. “One of our youth, around 12 years old, was on the way to a doctor appointment. The placement provider was driving and had a medical emergency while driving. She had a stroke and they got into a car accident. It was minor, not major, but the child panicked and didn’t know what to do. He decided to reach out to their CASA volunteer, who then talks with the child, gets a medical team there and stays on the phone through the whole situation — And I just think, ‘Man, what would that kid have had to deal with if they didn’t have a CASA there? Somebody they could call and just help with that because they didn’t know who their caseworker was?’ They didn’t know any of the other professional people on their team, but knew their CASA. Hearing things like that motivates me to keep working hard to get the funding and resources we need so that we can reach more of these kids who just need those consistent adults in their life.”

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COMOMAG.COM

105

Q.

Kids Say the Darndest Things

What do your parents do during the day while they are at work?

DAD, LAWYER

MOM, BUSINESS OWNER

MOM, PROJECT MANAGER

“My dad always carries his bag and goes to court.”

“Eats gardettos, runs, and goes on her computer.”

“My mommy helps people and buildings.”

- BRAXTON , 6

- H O PE , 8

- H A R PE R , 8

“My mom helps keep buildings safe.”

DAD, FIRE CHIEF / PARAMEDIC

“Goes to the pumpkin patch and lights trees on fire...”

MOM, TEACHERS AIDE

“Pets cows and puts them in the barn.”

- WYAT T, 3

MOM, DIGITAL ACCOUNT MANAGER

“Um...PLAY!” - G ID EO N , 2

“I dunno, you just work.

And sometimes you work at home on your ‘puter.”

- STI RL I N G , 5

MOM, REGISTERED NURSE

“My mom sleeps at work and makes people feel better.”

MOM, COO

DAD, LOAN OFFICER

Socialize, gossip, and talk crap…”

- L ILY, 15

MOM, PRINCIPAL + DAD, POLICE OFFICER

- AVE RY, 4

“She makes sure people are working at work.”

MOM, SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER

- M AVE R IC K , 5

MOM, BUSINESS OWNER

“I don’t know, why don’t you just tell me?”

- S O PH IA , 6

MOM, EDITOR OF THIS MAGAZINE

“He sells stuff by calling people.”

“IDK, I think you’re like a local socialite or something….”

- KE EG AN , 1 0

- B R A D E N , 19

“Mom does work. She goes to school and eats her lunch and then goes home and to the store to get milk and then stays working until its night time.

Dad does work. He drives a truck. He stays home and drinks a soda and watches television.”

- TU C K E R , 3

“My mom teaches. Technically she is a principal. My dad helps people and stops criminals.”

- JAC E , 9

“You make magazines, right?

And Dad is a computer designer.”

“I don’t know, get money and make magazines?”

“My mom works as a principal.

She is my superhero. My dad works as a police officer to save lives and he is my best friend.”

- BEN N E T T, 7

- FIN N , 5

- LANDEN, 11

MOM, GRAPHIC DESIGNER + DAD, APPLICATION DEVELOPER

Want to join in on the fun? Ask your kids what you do at work, email their response to kim@comomag.com and we’ll share it on our social channels!

106

MAY 2022

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