COMO | The Sports Issue 2022

Coach James P. Arnold Director of Athletics, Columbia College

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

Dr. Ashley Emel, President

Owner & Chiropractor, Compass Chiropractic & Wellness

Wendy Wiederhold, Vice President

Vice President Field Operations, Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc.

Jon Class, Treasurer

Member, Williams-Keepers LLC

Kelly Poor, Secretary

Senior Operations Manager, IDEXX BioAnalytics

Kathi Betz, Past President

Owner, Betz Jewelers

DIRECTORS

Nancy Allison

Shelter Insurance Agent, Retired

Dr. Courtney Barnes, MD, MPH Associate Professor of Clinical OB/GYN

Jeri Doty

MU Health Care Chief Planning Officer, Retired

Glen Ehrhardt

Attorney, Rogers | Ehrhardt

Angie Gentry

Senior VP Consumer Banking, Central Bank of Boone County

Chad Gooch

Lieutenant, Columbia Police Department

Amy Greenwood

REALTOR, RE/MAX Boone Realty

If

24/7

at 1-800-548-2480.

Mike Middleton

University of Missouri, Retired

Laura Schemel

Director, Brand Management & Marketing, MU Health Care

Laura Crouch, President Emeritus

Crouch & Associates, LLC

Ball for All

The sports issue is always a fun one to work on. It brings back many memories of countless hours of chau euring my ve kids to and from practices and games, locating and cleaning uniforms, and meals eaten on the run in the minivan. Because of the sheer volume of o spring that we had, we implemented a strict “one sport per kid” rule. is was one of the most stressful times in our family’s life but also came with some of our best memories of them as little kids. Sports still brings our family memories as my sons and I love to play golf together now that they are older.

I remember one time having to locate my youngest son’s uniform in three di erent physical places right before a game. Another great memory was pulling my oldest son’s tooth on the sideline after a particularly good tackle, because he couldn’t get his mouth guard in and couldn’t play without it. is marked the rst time this boy ever lost a tooth without making an entire crying production of it and he was twelve at the time. My eldest daughter has my temperament and literally took herself out of a basketball game one time after she committed an intentional foul. She just walked o the court to the bench. Everyone was very confused including the o cials. My youngest has played softball since she was ve years old including working with a private batting coach. She just recently decided to stop playing as she started high school creating a new opportunity to support our child’s mental health over what had been invested and planned for her for many years. Even now, my two oldest boys play in a semi professional league which is just fancy speak for adult men playing football and traveling to do it.

Family experiences like mine aren’t unique. Many families deal with this everyday. For some families, sports is the central hub around which the entire family revolves. However, you may think that you aren’t a sporty person and that sports have nothing to do with your life. Actually, it very much does. You may not realize it, but sports touch many parts of our community. Clearly, the university is a major economic driver of our city, and sports is a major economic driver to the university. Whether you are a sports fan or not, your life is most certainly a ected by sports every day if you live in Columbia. More than $150 million is brought into Columbia every year as a direct result of sporting activities from just the university and that’s not including the millions that come from MSHSAA events. is money spent in our community powers the funds that are drawn from for street improvement and maintenance and public safety.

Enjoy this issue as we explore all aspects of sports and how they impact our beloved city. I especially enjoy our “Last Word” page featuring sports pics of our readers’ kids.

As always, I’d love to hear from you. Some of our very favorite stories come from ideas from our readers. If you would like to see anything speci c in our pages, please email me at Erica@COMOMag.com.

ON THE COVER

ERICA PEFFERMAN PUBLISHER

Coach James P. Arnold, Columbia College director of athletics

Photo by Lana Eklund

Sponsors:

PRESENTING:

GOLD:

Thank you, SPONSORS!

Telecast Sponsor: KOMU 8 & Mid Missouri’s CW

Media Sponsors: COMO Magazine Cumulus Media, Inc. MAAD Creative, LLC Door Mail Marketing LLC KOPN 89.5 FM Brad Crum Creative LLC Missouri Business Alert

Printing Sponsor: Columbia College Location Sponsor: Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture

Entertainment Sponsors:  Nclusion Plus NicDanger The Callaway Bank The Columbia Entertainment Company

Fall Decor Sponsor: Andrea Lyn Events, LLC

Beverage Garden Sponsor: Mediacom Business

Cup Sponsor: DSport Graphics

My relationship with sports has been the center of many jokes and stories when gathered around the dinner table with family. My mom always says that I tried every sport just long enough for her to pay for the uniform, and then I was onto the next.

OK, yes, I may have tried every sport as a kid, and never quite found my niche. ere may or may not be a video out there somewhere of me making a shot in the other team’s basketball hoop. And, yes, maybe I was too afraid to tell my mom that I had quit the swim team… so for months she would drop me o at practice, and I would wait for her to leave and then go hide at Taco Bell for the duration of “practice.” So, I guess I am fair game when it comes to all those jokes and stories. Although I myself have never been Sporty Spice, I do really love sports.

What I have always loved about sports, and have grown to respect and appreciate more in my adulthood, is how they bond and bring people together. I love the sense of camaraderie. I love living in a college town. I love gamedays and seeing everyone dressed in their black and gold. I love bringing swarms of all kinds of people together for a common cause. It is one of the few times in life that your background doesn’t matter — all that matters is the team you have in common.

I love the sense of nostalgia that goes along with sports. I love the history and tradition of sports. I think Friday night lights have a certain smell in the air, something that you can just feel in your bones. As I’ve mentioned before, I spent eight years of my life on a high school football eld between my daughter cheering and my son playing football. High school can be a rough time in kids’ lives… but on a Friday night, in the student section, there is one cause, one common goal.

rough my own personal experiences and the ones with my kids, I have had the joy of experiencing cheerleading, football, dance, volleyball, competitive baseball, and track and eld, just to name a few. I have witnessed the dedication that coaches have to their sport and to their players. A coach’s brain never shuts o . Not only do they love their sport, I have seen rsthand how much coaches love “their” kids. Coaches can make or break a kid in sports, I have been very fortunate to know some very loving and dedicated coaches. Outside of the collegiate or professional level, these coaches are not in it for the money. ey are in it simply for the love of the game and the dedication to its people.

COMO is a sports town, and I take pride in that. Outside of the colleges

and the teams that everyone knows about, just down the road and around the corner, you can nd many teams and sports complexes we are blessed to have. From Columbia Parks & Rec, to Daniel Boone Little League, and so many others in between. From kids to youth to adults… ere truly is something for everyone. Maybe you aren’t sure which one is for you or your child but go ahead and try them all! At the very least, it makes for a good story.

President Erica Pefferman Erica@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 Jordan@comomag.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anthony Jinson, Chris Padgett, Lana Eklund

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Taylor Ambra, Gracie Fitzgerald, Lauren Sable Freiman, Jules Graebner, Jessica Jainchill, Molly Rhodes, Hannah Robertson, Michelle Terhune, Jennifer Truesdale

Director of Operations Amy Ferrari Amy@comomag.com

MARKETING

Director of Sales | Charles Bruce Charles@comomag.com

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Advisory Board

Representing Voices from All Different Walks of Life.

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

Beth Bramstedt

Associate Pastor

Christian Fellowship Church Heather Brown

Strategic Partnership Officer

Harry S Truman VA Hospital

Chris Cottle

Walk Manager

Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter

Nickie Davis

Executive Director

The District, Downtown CID

Alex George Owner

Skylark Bookshop

Executive Director

Unbound Book Festival Author Chris Horn

Reinsurance Manager

Shelter Insurance

Barbra Horrell

Consultant

Horrell Associates

Jeremiah Hunter

Assistant Police Chief Commander

Investigations Bureau

Columbia Police Department

Kris Husted

Senior Content Editor

NPR Midwest Newsroom

Amanda Jacobs Owner

Jacobs Property Management

Darren Morton Program Director

Turning Point

David Nivens, Chief Executive Officer

Midwest Computech

Suzanne Rothwell

Vice President

Advancement Division Columbia College

Megan Steen

Vice President

Burrell Behavioral Health

La Toya Stevens

Director of Communications for the Division of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity

University of Missouri-Columbia

Nathan Todd

Business Services Specialist

First State Community Bank

Wende Wagner

Director of Philanthropy

The Missouri Symphony

LOVE YOUR HEART Cardiac Screening

MU Health Care now offers a Love Your Heart Cardiac Screening designed to catch potential heart issues before they become a problem. This one-hour screening includes a lab analysis and cardiac calcium score to give an image of your heart health with next-step recommendations and advice.

Consider a screening if you:

Have high blood pressure or cholesterol (even if medically managed)

Have a family history of heart disease

Have Type 2 diabetes

Are a smoker or former smoker

Schedule at your convenience — no referral necessary. Learn more at muhealth.org/love-your-heart.

TRADITION. HISTORY. REUNION.

story of Mizzou Homecoming.

WHERE THERE’S A LEAGUE FOR EVERYONE

Columbia Parks & Recreation’s Sports Division boasts a robust slate of activities for residents of all ages.

FIELDS OF DREAMS

Adults sports leagues offer competition and community to COMO residents.

RIGHT ON TARGET

COMO holds a certain distinction in precision sport shooting. Its shooting clubs instill responsibility, confidence, and sport for shooters of all skill sets.

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MAKING THE TEAM

Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Sports Commission is committed to bringing home the gold.

DO

FINANCES ALIGN WITH YOUR GOALS AND DREAMS?

SURE… WE CAN HELP!

We will help you create and implement a plan that puts you on the right path to get where you want to go.

WHY CHOOSE US?

WE LIVE AND WORK IN THIS COMMUNITY – Our clients’ success and our relationships with them are top priority.

WE ARE AN INDEPENDENT COMPANY – We can offer flexible solutions (no red tape) and we don’t outsource anything to a corporate headquarters.

WE ARE A FIDUCIARY – We don’t sell products, we charge a straight-forward fee (no hidden fees), and we’re legally obligated to do what is best for you.

WE WORK IN A TEAM APPROACH –Credentialed professionals from various backgrounds providing all-inclusive holistic wealth management that includes financial planning and advising, investment management, and trust and estate services.

41 GAME DAY GRUB

COMO bars pull out all the stops when it comes to sports snacks.

53

TRADITION. HISTORY. REUNION. The story of Mizzou Homecoming.

30

HOME TEAM ADVANTAGE

Bill & Vickie Toalson’s home is a resort paradise with amenities for every sports fan.

SILVER SPONSORS

LaBrunerie Financial

Boone County Millwork

Cripps & Simmons LLC.

St. Croix Hospice

Automotive Specialist Sydenstricker Nobbe

BOOTH SPONSOR

Truman VA Hospital

BRONZE SPONSORS

Commerce Bank

Central Bank

Hawthorn Bank Cedarhurst Senior Living Fast Yowi

Angelo’s Pizza & Steak House

Boone Electric Cooperative

Tryps Children’s Theater AssuredPartners

COMMUNITY SPONSORS

Real Property Group Savvi Formalwear

Sumits Hot Yoga Lakota Coffee Company

44 Stone 44 Canteen Room 38

Broadway Hotel 11Eleven

The Roof Body Recovery Coffee Zone

Bud’s Classic BBQ

Pierpont General Store

Lizzi & Rocco’s Liberty Family Medicine

Making Art for All

As a part of the Percent for Art program, David Spear will contribute some of his work to the Columbia Sports Fieldhouse.

BY MOLLY RHODES

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DAVID SPEAR

Back in 1977, the Columbia City Council passed legislation to create the Percent for Art program, which allows for 1% of the cost of a renovation project or new city construction to be used for public art that is site speci c. An above-ground capital improvement project with a budget of $1 million or more is eligible to have art as a component of the site.

Examples of Percent for Art projects currently in development include Fire Station 11, which City of Columbia O ce of Cultural A airs Manager Sarah Dresser says is in its early stages.

e purpose of the Percent to Art program is to make "art accessible to all," says Sarah.

“ e program is very common in many cities; it is modeled after other communities who have similar processes for public art. Kansas City and St. Louis also have Percent for Art programs,” Sarah said.

Locations are selected by keeping tabs on upcoming constructions and renovations that meet the criteria. e Columbia City Council approves the budgets and then o cially designates the construction or renovation as a Percent for Art project.

Artists are selected by the standing committee for public art, the main group that reviews all applications and recommends artists for the projects. Once the nalist is chosen, a contract is written and signed, and then the design phase begins. At this point, the public can provide design input during public meetings.

“We try to make it an open and transparent public process,” Sarah said.

Columbia Sports Fieldhouse, located in A. Perry Phillips Park, installed mixed-media artwork in 2019 from local artist David Spear.

“David is a well-known artist in Columbia and the council thought his artwork represented all the di erent groups for Columbia Fieldhouse. It is a fun and dynamic piece.” Sarah said.

e artwork featured at Columbia Sports Fieldhouse is an interior, mixed-media creation, di erent from David's traditional medium of oil on canvas.

“My idea was to incorporate the functions of the building in the artwork and make something completely di erent than I have ever done before,” David said.

ese installations were created to incorporate the sports played at Columbia Sports Fieldhouse. Ambition, Boundaries, Objective, and Game Time are the names for the pieces featured at the sports facility.

“ e art creates a public museum in our city that they can experience in everyday life and make no special trip to experience it. It improves the lives of the residents and creates a welcoming place,” Sarah said.

e experience and artwork that comes from Percent for Art strengthens the COMO creative community by facilitating a feeling of belonging.

“ e art creates a sense place and helps makes public places that people want to be in and feel like they can either learn or be challenged by,” Sarah said.

Not only does the art improve the lives of residents, but it also creates a welcoming sight for COMO visitors.

"Boundaries"

"Game Time"

"Objective"

Purr-fect Day for Some Kickball

BY MOLLY RHODES

Kick It for Cats is an adult kickball tournament that took place earlier this summer.

Diann Stelzer, vice president and head operations coordinator of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) at Boone County Animal Care, applied for a grant from Community Cats Podcast.

Community Cats Podcast is a podcast and informative blog that o ers resources such as a grant, a mentoring program, and networking opportunities. e Community Cats Podcast grants are targeted toward TNR groups to help community cats. Boone County Animal Care uses Community Cats Podcast as a resource, according to Diann.

“I applied for a grant from Community Cats Podcast and received the grant based on an idea and had a fundraiser to raise at least $1,000 and they would match the $1,000,” Diann said.

e event was hosted by Shampooches Grooming and Mid-Missouri Kickball League with proceeds going to Boone County Animal Care.

Shampooches Grooming Co-Owner Mandy Crane assisted Diann with this idea and helped get the ball rolling.

“Mandy Crane is involved with Mid-Missouri Kickball League and arranged to get

the space for the fundraiser, and we decided how many teams and how much it would cost with ideas of doing it for the cats,” Diann said.

e event was held at CoMo Sports Complex LLC. Members of the community were encouraged to register their teams with registration consisting of completing the required forms and paying the $500 team fee. “ ere were only three teams, which wasn’t very big for our rst year, but hope for more in the future,” Mandy said.

ere was more fun to be had than just kickball. At this year’s event, there was food, games, and a silent auction going on during the kickball tournament. “We had hotdogs and chips to purchase, and a sign that said, ‘eat a dog, save a cat;’ we also had a Plinko game and a silent auction,” Mandy said.

e silent auction had many donations from di erent COMO businesses. “Lizzie & Rocco’s donated a gift card and also donated cute magnets, a dog toy and cat toy, then McAdams’ Ltd. donated cute pillows and a gift certi cate,” Mandy said about some of the donations in the silent auction. All proceeds went to Boone County Animal Care for TNRs for community cats.

“We trap weekly if we can get surgery spots on the schedule and usually every Tuesday, we have about ve or six surgery spots to ll up with TNR cats,” Diann said.

When all was said and done, between donations, food, games, registration fees and any other funds raised, this year's event brought in $3,200, according to Diann.

e winners of the tournament received medals that were donated by Shampooches Grooming.

Both Diann and Mandy enjoyed seeing the people at the event happy and having fun.

“It was cool to have a number we really wanted to hit, and it was a relaxing day. We enjoyed that it was fun and stress free,” Mandy said. “It was a very nice day, and it was just gorgeous; we just picked it right,” Diann added.

“Kick It for Cats” has hopes for the future. e ultimate goal is to continue to grow this kickball tournament and make this an annual event. “We hope to do it again and it is a unique event. We wanted to get out into the public and be more active,” Diann said.

e most surprising part about the event to Diann? “You would never believe how competitive kickball is. It’s crazy competitive,” Diann said.

The first-ever ‘Kick It for Cats’ kickball tournament raised funds for Boone County Animal Care.

Quick Healers

BY JESSICA JAINCHILL

As a college community, COMO has more than its fair share of athletes. So, sports injuries are not uncommon and can end up taking passionate athletes out of their game. Fortunately, Dr. Kristin Oliver’s Bluetail Medical Group specializes in a method that allows athletes to potentially speed up their healing process.

“We use your body’s own tissues to stimulate healing and decrease in ammation and pain,” Dr. Oliver says when describing a procedure she has successfully applied 28,000 times.

Known as platelet rich plasma (PRP), the procedure is a holistic method that concentrates platelets from an injured athlete’s peripheral blood in an e ort to help the body heal itself.

Dr. Oliver explains: “ e problem with sports injuries is that sometimes the injury is too big or too signi cant or it’s been going on too long, so then the body sets up a chronic in ammatory response. So, what we do is set up platelets, re-inject them into the area that is abnormal, and basically trigger a healing response. We have a lot of NFL guys who have to get healing fast, and with platelets, we can get them healing fast so they’re back to playing fast.”

PRP has been in use for over 20 years and Oliver has been providing it for 16 years, yet the procedure has only recently been fully embraced by the medical community. Unfortunately, insurance companies are not so eager to embrace PRP, either. is has led to fewer patients using this option for medical treatment.

“Unfortunately, people didn’t want to get anything not covered by their insurance. Not because it’s not e ective,” Dr. Oliver says. “We use FDA devices, and we’re the only clinic in the country to work with the FDA.”

Dr. Oliver notes that PRP treatment can run from $1,000 to $3,000, but even so, she believes there is a growing number of patients who are seeing the validity in what her practice can do for their sports-related injuries. Part of this comes from her openness about her o ce’s success and communication with her patients.

“We show our outcomes in a data bank, and we let them make the decision. We would explain the success and let them make the choice for themselves,” she says.

Ultimately, Dr. Oliver’s goal for every patient is to decrease their pain and increase their function. In many cases, her treatments extend beyond professional athletes to children and elderly patients who may be unnecessarily su ering with injuries or age-related medical problems. When she meets with her patients, she treats each one as an individual and assesses their individual needs accordingly. ough PRP does help many patients, it is not necessarily a permanent x. In some cases, Dr. Oliver’s patients need to return or a PRP may not apply to a patient’s condition.

“I have no problem telling someone I can’t help them,” Dr. Oliver says. “I would never want to steer a patient wrong, ethically.” But for all her potential patients, Dr. Oliver adds, “You are always welcome to come in. Just come, and we’ll tell you if you need [PRP} or not.”

Dr. Oliver says her ultimate purpose with her patients is to make sure, “ ey can lead an active quality lifestyle and do things without pain and without dysfunction.”

Bluetail Medical Group's holistic methods help athletes recover better and faster.

Dr. Kristin Oliver (Photo by Casey Buckman)

BY JENNIFER TRUESDALE | PHOTOS BY LANA EKLUND

Bill & Vickie Toalson’s home is a resort paradise with amenities for every sports fan.

Have you ever dreamt of designing and building a home with every cool feature imaginable? at’s what Bill and Vickie Toalson did in 1987 when they built their 8,200-square-foot home at 7273 South Hidden Pond o Route K and just south of the ornbrook Terrace neighborhood. It was here that the couple raised three children — Jodi and David Rowe from Vickie’s previous marriage and Charlie Toalson — while also creating a million memories.

Now, after 35 years in their dream home, these sports fans/ retired empty nesters are ready to downsize. Vickie, 73, is a St. Louis native and retired travel agent, while Bill, 75, is from Centralia with a background in construction and general. ey lived in Racine, Wisconsin for a couple of years but always had their eyes on moving back to COMO.

During that time, they kept a binder of all their design ideas. Whenever one of them said, “Wouldn’t it be nice to have X, Y, or Z?” they added it to the binder. is was the mid-1980s, so pot llers and smart refrigerators weren’t in the binder. But an indoor court for playing basketball, racquetball, and volleyball? You bet. A swimming pool and a lake? Check, check. Room for a gym, pool table, and card room? De nitely. Whoever buys the Toalson property will need to love sports and be as active as Bill and Vickie have been.

“I believe a couple things stand out [about this property], even though I could pick several,” says e Toalsons’ realtor, Barbara Schlemeier of House of Brokers, INC. “One of which would be the

fact it would be equivalent to living at a resort. I’ve been in real estate a long, long time, and I don’t recall any property that had a more beautiful backdrop worthy of that gorgeous pool! e home has such an awesome oor plan that would lend itself to almost anyone’s lifestyle.”

GO BIG OR GO…HOME?

e Toalsons’ massive 5-bedroom, 7-bath estate isn’t big for the sake of being big. Vickie says the ample square footage happened naturally as they planned the home. Vickie is one of eight children, and she wanted each of their three children to have their own bedroom. And she wanted a big kitchen.

“We’re just very family-oriented,” Vickie says. “My dad’s philosophy was — he bought the biggest lot on the street — he’d rather have all the kids in his yard so he knew where they were.”

And that’s how it was at the Toalson residence for years. All three of their children grew up playing sports. In fact, David Rowe played football at MU before going on to open D. Rowe’s Restaurant and Bar.

“When David played football at MU, he and his teammates would come over after practice to jump in the pool,” Vickie says. “It was always a lot of fun with the kids here. Jodi’s soccer team would camp out in the backyard. A lot of the out-of-town kids felt at home here.”

e home also has hosted a fraternity party here and an engagement party there, and it’s easy to see why.

Owner of now-defunct AST Construction, Bill was the general contractor for the home, which took 14 months to build.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

e brick home sits back on a wooded 10-acre lot that o ers great hiking opportunities. e Toalsons previously owned a lot more acreage, but in the last couple of years, they divided it up into smaller lots and sold them o , saving a 5-acre plot for their future, smaller home.

e front of the home is well-manicured and lushly landscaped. A grand entryway, complete with winding staircase, precedes the home’s luxury. On either side are the formal living and dining rooms, which Bill says only get used at the holidays; the smaller house will not have either.

Beyond the foyer resides a large kitchen (which boasts a dumbwaiter to the lower oor), and a huge living room with a vaulted ceiling that opens to the second oor. A stone replace adorns one wall goes all the way up. is living room is Vickie’s favorite part of the home because it’s where they spend all of their time. O the living room is one of several decks overlooking an L-shaped pool, which was installed by Vaughan Pools & Spas in 1997, complete with underwater stools for swim-up bar service. Just beyond the pool is a 3-acre lake, where Bill enjoys shing, and where the couple enjoys canoeing. A large three-seasons room and secondary master bedroom round out the main oor. Stairs are not kind to Vickie’s knees, so having two master suites has o ered some age-in-place exibility.

Downstairs boasts a lot of space for every hobby and game. As a general contractor, Bill’s must-have list in 1987 included a dedicated workshop space. ere’s a gym, room for a pool table, a small poker room, and a bar, all of which open into a large family room, which is Bill’s favorite area of the house. Vintage arcade games have found homes among the other games. Firewood cabinets on either side of the replace open to the outside for easy loading, which is another custom feature. e lower oor walks out to the pool and lake.

e second oor houses the primary master suite, three more bedrooms, and an o ce to which Bill added a very custom feature: two golf hole cups embedded in the oor so he can practice his putting.

“It was a process to nd carpet on which the ball would roll straight. ey had to roll the carpet out so I could hit some balls on it,” Bill recalled with a laugh.

A quick golf cart ride through the woods to an adjacent building reveals a 4-car garage, o the back of which is the racquetball-basketball-volleyball court built in 1993. Bill was an avid racquetball player when he was younger.

e Toalsons have done little to update their house over the years besides repainting and stripping some wallpaper, though Vickie plans to replace the dated bar before the house sells.

END OF THE SEASON

“It was a great house to raise kids in and have their friends over, all the way through college,” Bill says. “And it is more house than two people need.”

e Toalsons are in no hurry to build the smaller home they’ll move into when their large estate sells.

ey plan to travel in their RV for a while as they design and build it, enjoying retirement. And staying somewhere on the property that’s been home for 35 years, close to the lake, to the neighbors who have become good friends, and even to two of their children who live on adjacent lots, will ensure happiness and comfort in the years ahead.

WHAT THE

PROS KNOW

SHAUN HENRY

ANNE TUCKLEY

THE

GREEN 18. GREEN 18. HUT – HUT!!

By Shaun Henry Find more at AtkinsInc.com

I’m not really a football guy, but that and “Blue 42” have always been my go-to when I’ve quarterbacked with the kids. Football was hard on me. Broken arm as a freshman when trying to take down Jamie Morris in our cross-town rivalry game (Oakland won by the way!!). Then, I tore my ACL at Rock Bridge before the first game!!

Gave up on it after that one and stuck with baseball instead. For our boys, though, they tried several sports - baseball, football, soccer and wrestling. Why not fishing?

My point? DIY-ing your lawn and landscape doesn’t have to be a sport!

Although we would love to take care of every aspect of your lawn and landscape maintenance, we understand that many people like to do some of these things themselves. With all the time constraints between work, family, extracurriculars, and other obligations, maybe asking for a bit of help makes sense. Here are a few things we can do this fall to help free up some of your time:

Fertility and weed control for your lawn. At this time of the season, within our Turf Program, we are still managing weeds and adding fertility to continue to help our lawns recover from this past summer’s stress. For cool season grass (fescue, bluegrass, rye), fall is the optimal time for fertilizing to promote root development and overall health. We also often add soil amendments this time of year based on the lawn’s need. Gypsum, lime, organic matter or a turf biostimulant may be what your lawn needs to improve the soil over time and improve your stand of turf for the future.

Lawn renovation projects. Seeding season here begins late August and ideally is complete by mid-October. You never know

SHAUN HENRY

ATKINS

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

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

573-874-5100

when that first frost will hit, so seeding early is ideal in COMO. Core aerating, however, can be done up until the ground freezes and your lawn will benefit from opening up the soil to air exchange, nutrients and moisture.

Landscape bed clean up. Weekends in the fall are best spent outside so you may want your landscape beds to be in the best shape that they can. Weeding, “fluffing mulch”, light pruning, replacing plants that didn’t survive the summer and mulching can really spruce things up.

Shutting down your irrigation. You may need the ability to water yet this fall, but soon enough you will want to shut the system down and plan to winterize it. You might want to check it for leaks and fix any sprinkler heads beforehand, so the system is ready to go next spring.

Leaves, leaves, and more leaves. A lot of leaves fell due to drought conditions this summer, but there are a lot more yet coming this fall. Keeping them off the lawn as best you can will help to keep them from smothering your grass and creating weak or even dead spots. Clearing them from corners and from your landscape will help to keep things looking neat and tidy, too.

How are your trees doing? Many ash trees around town are dying from Emerald Ash Borer damage and need to be removed sooner than later. Others are suffering from stress (drought, heat, disease, insect pest, mechanical damage, and other environmental issues) and can often be helped out with treatments in the fall. We can diagnose and make recommendations as needed.

Pest exclusion. Mice and other pests tend to start moving indoors for the winter this time of year as temperatures drop and their food sources dwindle. Mice can carry a variety of diseases that can be passed to us or our pets plus they can do considerable damage to our homes and personal property we keep inside. Our pest management folks have the know-how to help you keep them out and keep your house safe.

Although lawn mower racing is considered a sport, I don’t believe that all of your lawn and landscape chores have to be run like one. You can also imagine leaf pile gymnastics may not end too well, either. If you need help with anything around the house this fall, don’t hesitate to call Atkins. We’re here to help. It’s what we do.

THE LIFE OF A TREE

By Kelly McBride Find more at rostlandscaping.com

By the time a tree is planted at your home, it has seen many faces and places. A lot of time and effort is put into the tree before it can ever provide shade for your yard, become the ultimate treehouse tree for your kids, house a happy little tire swing, or provide fruit, fragrance, fall color or flowers. At Rost Inc., a single tree travels through a variety of our divisions over the span of several years before ever being planted in a landscape. So, here’s a peek behind the scenes of what it takes to get a tree ‘retail ready’.

Each spring, thousands of ‘liners’ are delivered. A liner, is essentially a baby tree with bare roots. We quickly plant these liners in containers where they are held on at our container growing facility. These liners are maintained here for a year, while they grow and establish a better root system.

Early the following spring, these are taken to our tree farm and planted in the ground. These trees will now spend at least three years growing before they can be dug up and prepared for sale. During this time, 300 acres of trees, all at various stages of growth, are routinely pruned, fertilized, weeded, sprayed for pests, and watered. Because they’ve been grown in Missouri soil and have developed in this climate, the health and quality of these trees is vastly increased.

Many times, trees are categorized by caliper rather than height. The caliper of a tree is the diameter of the trunk. So, once a tree has reached the size we need for sale, based on its caliper, it is then dug in late fall or early spring. Trees are dug up by a tree spade, placed in a burlap-and-wire basket, and wrapped by hand. The main purpose of this process is to ensure that the root system stays intact and travels safely.

While many of our trees are shipped to other nurseries throughout the Midwest, most of them are then shipped to the Rost Inc. / Superior Garden Center nursery lot. At this point, they are heeled in, meaning the root ball is temporarily covered to provide protection from weather, to prevent trees from breaking dormancy early, and to keep the roots moist until the tree has been purchased.

From here, the trees are selected by customers at Superior Garden Center or by landscape designers and installation crews from Rost Landscaping to be planted. Which is where you come in! There are many reasons to plant trees in your yard beyond the need for shade or beauty.

KELLY M c BRIDE ROST LANDSCAPING

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.

(573) 445-4465

ROSTLANDSCAPING.COM

1. Trees increase the value of your home.

2. Shade trees can reduce cooling costs by 30-50%.

3. Trees convert carbon dioxide into oxygen & absorb harmful pollutants.

4. Trees filter contaminants and therefore reduce the amount of chemicals entering streams and groundwater.

5. Environments with trees have been known to enhance your health.

So while you’re excited for your new tree, that tree has already had many hands touch it. From drivers, to our tree farm crews, to our nursery staff, to landscape installation crews and everyone and every hose in between, it is our pleasure to do the work that produces a tree you can enjoy for decades to come.

SPOTLIGHT ON STEARNS & FOSTER®

By Jake Baumgartner Find more at baumgartners.com

At Baumgartner’s, we don’t like to pick favorites; but inevitably, some brands stand out from the rest. Stearns & Foster® is one of those brands. With over 175 years of experience, they have mastered`mattress technology and know just how to maximize comfort for optimal sleep. Every Stearns & Foster® mattress is made to order and hand-built at a manufacturing facility in the United States by Master Craftsmen.

Stearns & Foster® offer’s three mattress models at different pricepoints; Estate Collection, Lux Estate Collection, and Reserve Hepburn. All models are available in sizes Twin Long to Split California King. You can also choose the feel of the mattresses, from pillow top plush to firm, to match your preference and help guarantee the sleep of your dreams. But which mattress model will be right for you? Read on to help you decide:

Estate Collection

The Estate Collection is considered their classic design. This collection offers the most affordable mattress options, with two models available; the Estate Hurston and the Estate Rockwell.

The Estate Hurston is made of gel memory foam that adapts to your body, providing pressure relief and support throughout the night. The Estate Rockwell features their exclusive indulge memory foam developed for Stearns & Foster® by the sleep scientists at Tempur-Pedic®. This comes at an increased cost, but is still a great value for the price.

JAKE BAUMGARTNER

PROS KNOW

Both models feature 1,500+ Premium Coils, including the IntelliCoil®, their patented coil-withincoil design.

Lux Estate Collection

The Lux Estate Collection takes comfort a step further while also offering two models: the Lux Estate Cassatt and Lux Estate Hybrid Pollock. Both models feature 2,200+ Premium Coils.

The Lux Estate Cassat mattress includes IntelliCoil® HD innersprings and Indulge HD Memory Foam. The Lux Estate Hybrid Pollock increases pressure relief and comfort with additional Indulge Memory Foam closer to the mattress surface and an IntelliCoil® Micro Layer of innersprings that provide adaptive support.

Reserve Hepburn

With 3,500+ Premium Coils, the Reserve Hepburn is the most luxurious mattress Stearns & Foster® offers.

This legendary mattress provides ultimate comfort and class as a result of

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

their expert craftsmanship. The velvet exterior and premium flourishes exudes extravagance; but it’s what’s on the inside that really sets this mattress apart.

The Reserve combines all three of Stearns & Foster® exclusive coil technology - IntelliCoil® HD, Precision Edge™, and Intellicoil® Micro to provide the perfect mix of support, stability, and durability.

Along with mattresses, Stearns & Foster® also offers bases and pillows to fully maximize your sleeping experience. To learn more about how Stearns & Foster® products can lead to a better sleep, stop by and see us at Baumgartner’s furniture today!

DESIGNING POWDER ROOMS

By Anne Tuckley Find more at AnneTuckleyhome.com

Let’s be honest. Toilets are the epitome of necessity. Functionality is their best quality. When a designer creates a powder room, the toilet is a have-to rather than a want. So what do we do? Everything in our power to draw attention away from the throne. And, lucky for us, powder rooms offer a plethora of fun and unique design opportunities.

Clients are frequently intimidated by small spaces when it comes to design. They opt for monochromatic, solid colors and large mirrors to try to create the illusion of more space. The fact of the matter is, though, small is small. Visual illusions can only do so much for a 5’ x 9’ room - when it comes to the actual physical space, your best bet is to optimize through the utilization of clever storage. When it comes to visual space, ignore it. Embrace the powder room as a blank canvas and make a bold statement.

One of the things I love most about designing powder rooms is the fact that they are small, which means you can get away with colors and patterns that would not be suitable for a large space.

The following are a few of my favorite ideas for decorating powder rooms:

1. Cover the walls in art

Don’t limit yourself to a small 5”x7” frame on the wall. Select several large photos or artwork and make a collage of frames that takes up the entire wall.

2. Add tiles

Tiles don’t have to be limited to floors and showers. Use decorative subway tiles to create an elegant accent wall behind your vanity.

3. Draw the eyes up.

Bathrooms can be elegant, too! Detract from the toilet by drawing attention up to a stunning chandelier or ornately framed vanity mirror. In the header image, the walls were painted a black and a floral wallpaper was added to the ceiling. We also replaced the door knob with round glass and brushed brass to complement the new design.

ANNE TUCKLEY HOME

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

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.

4250 E. BROADWAY SUITE 1043 COLUMBIA, MO, 65201 (573) 639-1989

PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON STYLED BY SADIE THIBODEAUX

2651

573-256-3600

573-817-2955 alpineshop.com

WHERE THERE’S A LEAGUE FOR Everyone

Everyone

BY HANNAH ROBERTSON

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY COLUMBIA PARKS & RECREATION

F or so many of us, reminiscing on childhood memories of summer usually conjures images of sporting equipment, grass stains, carpooling, and post-game team dinners with some of our closest friends. anks to Columbia Parks & Recreation’s Sports Division, this tradition continues for future generations; and doesn’t stop once you’re “grown up”!

Columbia Parks & Recreation o ers a year-round sports program for adults and youths, with various activities available at di erent times throughout the year. ese programs exist to provide positive recreational opportunities that keep citizens of all ages active and healthy. e department works with other organizations as sponsors such as the Columbia Youth Football League and Columbia Youth Basketball Association.

Columbia Parks & Recreation’s Sports Division boasts a robust slate of activities for residents of all ages.

For the past three years, Joey Wilmes has been Columbia’s Parks & Recreation sports supervisor. In this role, he oversees all youth and adults sports programming as well as the facilities these events are held. Joey is a huge proponent of youth sports programs and knows about the mental and physical bene ts they a ord.

“I grew up playing baseball, soccer, and basketball. A lot of my best friends I met while playing those sports. I learned a lot from my parents, of course, but sports had a huge impact on who I am and how I live my life. It built my character.” Joey emphasized that he believes participating in sports teaches children lessons on and o the eld. “It helps young people become respectable adults”.

Practice is typically held in the evenings during the week, with games on the evenings and weekends. e sports programs give families a chance to do something together while also giving children structured learning opportunities and the chance to socialize with kids their own age. Sports are hugely bene cial for adults, both for overall and wellness and because they provide adults outlets from the workday and week.

For individuals and families in need, the city o ers scholarships and nancial

assistance for sports programs and for the facilities that people can visit. ere are also scholarships available from the youth organizations themselves and non-pro ts like the Day Dreams Foundation, which provides scholarships for fees associated with extracurricular activities to children 5-18 who qualify for free or reduced lunch at Columbia Public Schools.

In addition to outdoor sports o erings, early June saw the launch of the eSports program. Currently, the organization hosts Super Smash Bros Ultimate tournaments every Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at Columbia Sports Fieldhouse.

e weekly 1-on-1, double-elimination tournament is BYOS (Bring Your Own Setup), and participants can even join a Discord community!

YOUTH SPORTS

Baseball/ Softball & T-Ball Sponsored by Diamond Council Basketball Sponsored by Columbia Youth Basketball Association (CYBA)

Football Sponsored by Columbia Youth Football League (CYFL)

Lacrosse Sponsored by Mid Missouri Lacrosse League Soccer Sponsored by Sporting Columbia SC Tennis Sponsored by Columbia Parks & Recreation

Track and Cross Country Sponsored by Blue Thunder

HIGH SCHOOL /COLLEGIATE

Gans Creek Classic

ADULT SPORTS Basketball Kickball Softball Volleyball

Douglass Baseball Sponsored by Douglass Athletic Association

“We are slowly dipping into that world and trying to gure out what it can become. If somebody would have told me 15 years ago there would be scholarships available for eSports, I never would have believed it,” Joey said.

In February, Columbia Parks and Recreation earned national recognition by Sports Destination Management for its e orts to keep local sports tourism ourishing in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic. e department was named “Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism,” which was awarded based on its ability to “host the best sports events, held nationally, in the face of the pandemic that showed creative problem solving, determination and courage."

Is there a sport you’d like to see in COMO that isn’t currently o ered? Reach out to the sports division and let them know! ey are constantly looking to expand and improve upon the program. “We continue to try to grow the sports we o er. Come to us with your idea and we will absolutely brainstorm it and try to make it work in Columbia,” Joey says.

For more information on the Parks and Recreation sports program and all it has to offer, visit its website at como. gov/parks-and-recreation/sports or download the COMOSports mobile app

To contact Joey Wilmes directly, you can email him at Joey.Wilmes@CoMo.gov, or call him at 573.874.7706

Ben Brammeier Associate

Rob Temple Associate Alyysha Cox Paralegal

Nathan Jones Partner

Ernie Ueligger Partner Rylie Grove Assistant Emily Camden Paralegal

Katie Jackson Sr. Paralegal

The story of Mizzou Homecoming.

BY GRACIE FITZGERALD | PHOTOS BY ANTHONY JINSON

From a freshman’s rst steps on campus to their walk across the stage at graduation, tradition guides every part of the MU experience. But how do pivotal traditions like Homecoming, Tiger Walk, and Senior Send-O s begin? According to Todd McCubbin, executive director of the Mizzou Alumni Association, when you do something once and do it well, you’re bound to create something special. He said, “While the professors, the majors, the presidents and the chancellors may change, those traditions and the history of the place – they all tie that bind.”

ese shared experiences create a special connection between MU students and alum.

Homecoming is one of MU’s most widely celebrated traditions, and the university is known to be the rst to celebrate it. e Homecoming tradition dates back to 1911 when Chester Brewer invited alumni near and far to “come home” for the Missouri-Kansas football game. Chester said, “As I remember, Missouri was the rst school to sponsor the idea of an annual reunion on the day of some important football game.” With over 9,000 attendees at the original Homecoming celebration, it was an overwhelming success that has only grown since.

e pride in being the rst inspires all the traditions that accompany Homecoming. Todd said, “At Mizzou, it’s all about the students. You get to participate in Homecoming activities in a variety of di erent ways as a student, and then on Homecoming weekend, alum want to come back to experience it because they’ve felt that energy and magic at campus decorations, the parade and the football game.”

e 2022 Homecoming theme is “Paint the Town Gold” to commemorate golden memories made at MU. is year, the Tigers will face Vanderbilt on Saturday, October 22, and MU alum from all over the country will return once again to celebrate the MU holiday.

CAMPUS DECORATIONS

Every year, an estimated 20,000-plus students and alumni walk through “Greek Town” for one of the university’s most popular Homecoming traditions – campus decorations. Fraternities and sorority pairings create large, free-standing boards that are painted and pomped to re ect the annual theme. e pairings

also perform skits to engage the audience and bring their boards to life.

Todd said, “Campus decorations are the rst stop at the reunion event. It’s where the weekend gets started for a lot of people coming back into town. It’s great for kids and it’s great for families. You see a lot of people meeting up with people they haven’t seen in a long time.”

THE PARADE

With 150 oats and about 30,000 attendees, the Homecoming parade is the perfect kicko to game day. It brings everybody to the heart of the MU campus for some family-friendly fun before heading to the stadium.

“I like the moment at the beginning when Marching Mizzou starts taking the rst strides down Rollins,” said Todd. “And every year, I watch the rst 20-30 entries, then I walk backward through the parade route. At University and Ninth Street, I cut through the quad. Nobody is out there at that time, and you’re in this beautiful historic place where you can hear the buzz and the ght song from the band bouncing o the buildings. It’s just so cool.”

THE FOOTBALL GAME

MU has played an array of intercollegiate opponents for what’s become the biggest game of the year. Todd said, “ e game is the culmination of the weekend, it’s a fun place to go. It’s where the spirit comes alive.”

A Homecoming weekend, however, wouldn’t be complete without a king and queen. Each year, students apply or are nominated by their various clubs and campus organizations to be a part of the Homecoming Court. e royalty process is no small undertaking – it involves an application and a multi-interview process where students undergo three levels of judging. Every applicant submits a written portion. en, the top 30 move on to a personal interview with select faculty and sta . Finally, the top-10 students represent the Homecoming Court, and a student vote appoints the Homecoming King and Queen.

Alex Holley, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and a life member of the Mizzou Alumni Association, was Homecoming Queen in 2010. She felt that being a part of the Homecoming tradition was an irreplaceable experience. “I feel honored and blessed to have been Homecoming Queen, representing the student body and my sorority. To be on the eld and share that moment with the thousands of people who were there was a surreal experience. It will always be one of the highlights of my life. It’s not every day that you get crowned Queen where Homecoming originated!”

Alex said that nearly 15 years later, she still keeps in touch with the other alum who were by her side on Homecoming Court. She attributes this lasting relationship to MU’s strong foundation in tradition. She said, “I like how they use elements of tradition to guide you along –you have something in common with so many people who have gone to Mizzou and done the same thing. It makes the experience that much more special.”

TIGER TRADITIONS ABOUND

e list of Homecoming traditions doesn’t end there. e celebrations also include a blood drive, talent and dance competitions, the “Decorate the District” event, a food drive and more – all contributing to the true spirit of Homecoming.

e blood drive is one of the largest student-run varieties in the United States each year. Students and other community members can donate on campus, while non-COMO residents can donate at satellite locations – all benetting the same cause and representing the black and gold.

e talent and dance competitions take place during the week leading up to Homecoming. Each of the Greek pairings make their way to Jesse Hall to perform original dances and skits related to their assigned theme for an audience of students, parents and alum.

e “Decorate the District” event occurs the ursday night before Homecoming weekend when the student body, including clubs and organizations, come together to paint Mizzou-inspired designs on windows of the downtown restaurants and storefronts.

Finally, the food drive (coined as the “Tiger Food Fight”) brings the Mizzou community together to contribute to the Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri, which also bene ts Tiger Pantry on campus.

COMING HOME FOR YEARS TO COME

MU Homecoming is a shared experience that students, both past and present, hold close to their hearts. e weekend festivities have evolved over the years to become the great celebration it is today, and it’ll always be an essential element of the MU experience. Todd said, “ e way our sta , students and leadership on campus are able to evolve a great tradition has kept it strong and vibrant.”

At MU, the word “Homecoming” symbolizes tradition, history, reunion and the celebration of collective memories of thousands of people — because everyone has a MU story

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN

In the evenings and weekends, COMO’s elds, courts, and gyms ll with camaraderie, competition, and spectators as adults engage in a variety of sports leagues. From skilled athletes to those looking to try something new, there is an option for every type of athlete.

Adults sports leagues offer competition and community to COMO residents.

Mid-Missouri Kickball League

Louie and Adriana Nieman met playing kickball in St. Louis in 2009. ey even played kickball on their wedding day. So, it just makes sense that after returning to COMO, the duo founded the Mid-Missouri Kickball League in 2017.

“After moving back to Columbia, we realized this community was missing the kickball community which brought us together,” Adriana says. “ e goal of the league is to provide an outlet where adults can get out, have fun, and make new friends.

e league has intentional networking events, fun gameday activities, and we focus on having fun more than anything else.”

Each co-ed team has 12-16 players ages 21 and up, and requirements are in place to ensure that a team’s players are of di erent genders. ere are no practices, and each season includes eight games over ve weeks. Playo s are held in week six, and medals are awarded to the season champions.

While the rst season had four teams and 64 players, this past spring’s season saw an increase to 16 teams and 260 players. And the league boasts another fun success story — one couple proposed in the middle of a kickball game last fall.

“Popularity has grown dramatically over the last ve years,” Adriana says. “I think the interest has grown organically by people having fun (and) making new friends and new connections, and by the league being well organized. We focus our organization on our games and team activities, we have open communication, and we created an easy registration process. When people are having fun, they talk about it at work and such. e potential for fun is what brings people here, not the big red ball.”

As a COMO native, Adriana says that supporting local businesses and nonpro ts is extremely important, and the Mid-Missouri Kickball League has participated in fundraising events for local nonpro ts.

“We are happy to facilitate the games for anyone who is looking for a unique fundraising opportunity,” Adriana says. “Each year, the league owners passionately host a large tournament bene ting Welcome Home. We team up with Fulton's Coalition Against Rape and Domestic Violence organization. In the past, we have held tournaments for Central Missouri Humane Society as well as Boone County Animal Care.”

For registration information, visit midmissourikickball.com. Players can sign up as an individual and be placed on a team or can sign up as a team captain and recruit a team of players.

Columbia Park and Recreation Adult Softball League

Six nights each week through the spring, summer and fall, adults take to the elds at the Rainbow Softball Center as part of the Columbia Parks and Recreation adult softball league. It’s a COMO tradition that dates back at least 40 years. ere are mens teams and co-ed teams, along with C, D and E leagues for players with a variety of skill levels.

“Adult softball, and all adult sports, allow for individuals to have an outlet from the business and stress of life,” says Joey Wilmes, recreation supervisor for Columbia Parks and Recreation.” Whether they prefer the competition of some of the more competitive leagues or enjoy the fun and socialization of the recreational leagues, it allows them an activity to get together with friends, play, and have fun.”

at’s exactly what around 110 teams of 10-15 players do each season. Eight-game spring leagues begin in early April. Summer leagues — also eight game-seasons — begin in late June, while the six-game fall league seasons begin in early September. Each season also o ers a Doubleheader League where teams play two games nightly instead of one. Two weeks at the end of the season are set aside to play any games that were rained out. Practices are organized by team captains.

Leagues are held every night of the week except for Saturday, which makes the league accessible to any and all who wish to play.

While league participation dropped during the height of COVID-19, Joey says that adult sports have seen a drop in participation nationwide, but the numbers are slowly beginning to increase.

“While our participation numbers are rising slightly each year post-COVID, the participation is not what it was years ago,” he says.

To register for the adult softball league or other adult sports o ered through the Parks and Recreation department, call (573) 874-7460, walk into the Parks and Recreation o ce at 1 S. Seventh Street, or log on to the Parks and Recreation website, como. gov/parks-and-recreation/sports/.

Show-Me Pickleball Club

Interest in pickleball has been steadily building around the country — and in COMO, it’s no di erent. Since its formation in 2010, the Show-Me Pickleball Club has seen membership climb steadily to 300 people.

“Ever since the rst year, it’s been a slow and steady growth,” says Club President Doug “Chief” Schwandt. “Each year, it grows as people become aware and introduced to the sport, they quickly want to play more and meet more people to play. e club is a good forum for that.”

With bootcamps for new players, opportunities for tournament play, social events and more, the club is an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive place for both new and seasoned players.

“Pickleball is so inclusive and cross-generational,” Doug says. “We have people in the club in their 80s who play regularly. It has a big social component to it, and it brings people together to form friendships.”

Members of the club are invited to participate in several leagues throughout the year hosted by the club’s development committee. e committee is dedicated to introducing more players to the sport.

e club’s play is almost all doubles, whether men’s, women’s, or the mixed variety.

Membership to the Show-Me Pickleball Club is $25 per year and includes socials and a t-shirt. Membership dues also support courts, nets, shade structures, and promoting pickleball around Columbia. More information can be found at showmepickleball. com/ or on the club’s Facebook page.

Columbia Ultimate Players

In COMO, Ultimate Frisbee is a year-round sport. With three outdoor seasons and an indoor winter season, Columbia Ultimate Players is accomplishing its goal of facilitating the growth of and increasing the participation in the sport around Mid-Missouri.

“We not only want to be a fun group, but also a group to be able to teach anyone how to play, so we can be a good rst step for anyone who is interested,” says Luke Stir, a representative for CUP.

With 50-60 players each season, an average of four co-ed teams compete in a round robin season followed by a tournament that determines the season champion. Team captains draft teams from the pool of registered players, and CUP honors the buddy system, which means the league will try to place players who sign up together on the same team. CUP is open to all players, regardless of experience or ability. Because of the way teams are drafted, participants who play multiple seasons will play with di erent teammates, and on di erent teams, each season.

“We don't have a practice, but for anyone who is interested or new, the captains, the experienced players from our club team, Locomotion, or the college teams will gladly teach you how to play Ultimate,” Luke says.

While Ultimate Frisbee in Columbia dates back to the formation of the UMC Frisbee Flyers in 1978, CUP in its current form began in 2002. ere has been continuous league play in COMO for the past 20 years, with the exception of leagues during the COVID-19 closures in 2020.

“Interest in Ultimate has increased over time, especially since 2020,” Luke says. “As more people have heard about our league, we have been seeing new faces who like to learn and have fun playing Ultimate.”

Registration information is available on the Columbia Ultimate Players Facebook page or by emailing columbiaultimateplayers@gmail.com.

“Popularity has grown dramatically over the last five years. I think the interest has grown organically by people having fun (and) making new friends and new connections.”

— Adriana Nieman

WHAT DO WE MEAN?

We focus on the physician/ patient relationship — the way family medicine was meant to be practiced.

With our membership model, there are no copays required to utilize the services we offer. We have the freedom to care for our patients the way they deserve: with full control and personalized attention.

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BLAZING A TRAIL TO VICTORY

Fr. Tolton Catholic High School’s baseball team captured the program’s first-ever state championship.

RIGHT ON TARGET

COMO holds a certain distinction in precision sport shooting.

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MAKING THE TEAM

Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Sports Commission is committed to bringing home the gold.

Rave

Selfie Love

Sel e Love is an immersive sel e museum and photography studio where customers can take amateur, semi-professional, and/or professional pictures with friends, family, co-workers, or alone using their own phone or camera. Sel e Love serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and it also has an event space available to rent for parties, fundraisers, networking events, team building/meetings, video production, photo shoots, and all other types of events! e space can seat 50 guests and host 75 standing attendees.

Owners Lisa Wampler and Destiny McKnight say that when they met, they imme-

diately hit it o as friends, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals. Together, they have the same vision of bringing more of the modern event designs and unforgettable entertainment experiences that they’ve seen in bigger cities to COMO. Plans for the future? “We plan to keep refreshing our sets as the seasons change, and to participate in all of the fun and exciting events that the district hosts every year.”

804 LOCUST ST. 314-223-2927

SELFIECOMO.COM

/SELFIELOVECOMO

@SELFIELOVECOMO

The Walters Team

Recently known as "Homes By Megan," Megan Walters and her team have rebranded and expanded to " e Walters Team," and they are now powered by the tech-based company of eXp Realty. is change came after months of research into the future of real estate and how to better serve clients and scale to new heights! e Walters Team is known for its nationally and locally awarded agents, unbeatable marketing, top results for clients, nationwide partnerships, and being the only team in the area certi ed in luxury housing. e future for e Walters Team is bright as it will search for a new 'hub' that will house some of the top local agents in Mid-Missouri.

573-808-6457

WALTERSTEAMREALTY.COM

@THEWALTERSTEAM

@THE_WALTERS_TEAM

Tacos 4 Life

Tacos 4 Life, an Arkansas-based taco restaurant on a mission to help end world hunger, will open a COMO location this fall with father-son franchisees Brad and Drew Vaden at the helm. “We couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the Columbia community,” said Austin Samuelson, co-founder of Tacos 4 Life. “We’re blessed to continue to expand in Missouri with the help of our guests and mission-oriented franchisees like Brad and Drew. ” Tacos 4 Life helps ght world hunger by donating $0.24 for every taco, salad, rice bowl, nacho, or quesadilla sold to non-pro t partner Feed My Starving Children. Since its inception, Tacos 4 Life has donated over 25 million meals. Drew says, “Columbia takes pride in supporting their local businesses and we know the Tacos 4 Life mission will be no di erent.”

511 E. GREEN MEADOWS RD.

TACOS4LIFE.COM/LOCATIONS/COLUMBIA

Briefly in the News

New State Historical Society Exhibitions Depict Social, Racial, and Cultural Landscape of the American South from 1920s to 1950s

e State Historical Society of Missouri, in collaboration with the Missouri School of Journalism, invites the public to view a new exhibit, "Mr. Pruitt’s Possum Town: Trouble and Resilience in the American South," open through Nov. 5. e free exhibition is sponsored by the National Endowment of the Humanities and curated by Berkley Hudson, an associate professor emeritus at MU. Seventy- ve of the exhibition’s photos are on display in the State Historical Society’s Art Gallery, while another 25 images can be viewed at the Reynolds Journalism Institute on the MU campus. e main exhibition focuses on photographs produced during the lengthy career of photographer Otis N. Pruitt, who spent his professional life in the small, segregated town of Columbus, Mississippi. Hudson and several of his childhood friends acquired the collection. In recent years, with the help from journalism school students and faculty, Hudson has researched some 88,000 negatives that Pruitt made from the 1920s through the 1950s. To tie

"Mr. Pruitt’s Possum Town" to Missouri’s history, the State Historical Society has mounted a related exhibition of artworks from its own collections, "Picturing Missouri Sharecroppers: Finding Counterparts" to Pruitt’s Images in Missouri. is smaller exhibit presents images of rural southeast Missouri produced by St. Louis Post-Dispatch editorial cartoonist Daniel

COMMUNITY

Entrance to Mr. Pruitt’s Possum Town: Trouble and Resilience in the American South at SHSMO.

Fitzpatrick and photojournalist Arthur Witman. On assignment, they documented the Sharecropper’s Protest of 1939 as well as life in the community of Cropperville, a rural Missouri cooperative created to provide homes and farmland to former tenant farmers who participated in the protest.

COMMUNITY

COMO Girl Scout Earns the Group’s Highest Honor

Ashley Wilkerson has earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, proof that not only can she make a di erence, but that she already has. Ashley’s Girl Scout Gold Award project was titled “Never Ending Gift,” and it addresses the issue of children and young adults not being able to read. Ashley installed mini libraries around her community to increase peoples reading participation. She compassionately said, “ is is important because literacy is essential to being successful in life.” She pointed out that the younger generations are becoming more reliant on technology and losing their desire to read. She went on to say, “Many people also do not have access or the ability to get to a public library, these mini libraries located near their homes give them access to books all the time.”

CELEBRATION

Welcome Home: A Community for Veterans Receives Grant Award from Disabled Veterans National Foundation

Welcome Home: A Community for Veterans announced it has received a grant from the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) for $15,000, which will fund transitional shelter, permanent housing, employment, and comprehensive, wrap-around supportive services for

homeless and at-risk veterans. Welcome Home Executive Director Megan Sievers said, “Joining forces with the Disabled Veterans National Foundation again this year means the world to us, especially the veterans we serve. is is what strong, impactful partnerships are all about. With the generous grant funding, we are proud to renew the foundation’s Veteran Room Sponsorship and continue displaying the foundation’s name on a special plaque outside one of our ADA shelter rooms for an entire year.”

Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to provide critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded either physically or psychologically.

GIVING BACK UScellular Donates

$30,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbia

UScellular has announced a $30,000 investment in Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbia to provide educational opportunities and experiences to local youth. e company has invested in Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbia to support K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and academic enrichment programs.

e STEM learning and experience provided is designed to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow, and according to Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth Outcomes survey, the youth at Clubs display far greater interest in pursuing STEM careers than their peers nationally (52% vs. 27%). is year, the funding will support the Club with needed sta ng and training, supplies for additional locations, improvements to its STEM bus and STEM eld trips.

“We’ve heard from parents and students that they think STEM is good for their future careers, but 48% of students and 41% of parents don’t know enough about the opportunities

a STEM education would a ord,” said Joe Cabrera, director of sales for UScellular in Missouri and Kansas. “Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbia provides this critical access so that we can build a future of bright and enthusiastic tech leaders.” Last year, UScellular donated 2,845 hotspots and services — a value of nearly $2.6 million - to 35 Boys & Girls Clubs as a part of the After School Access Project, a program that provides free mobile hotspots and service to nonpro ts that support youth after the school day has ended. is included 80 hotspots and service valued at $92,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbia.

HEALTH

Boone Hospital Center Named Mid-Missouri’s No. 1 Hospital for Eighth Straight Year

For the eighth year in a row, Boone Hospital Center was ranked the No. 1 hospital in Mid-Missouri and was named the No. 6 hospital in the state by U.S. News & World Report. e publication also rated Boone Hospital Center “High Performing” in abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, aortic valve surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), colon cancer surgery, heart attack, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, hip fracture, hip replacement, kidney failure, and stroke. e annual “Best Hospitals” rankings and ratings are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive quality care for challenging health conditions or elective procedures. For the 2022-2023 rankings and ratings, U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 hospitals across 15 specialties and 20 procedures and conditions. In the 15 specialties, 164 hospitals were ranked in at least one specialty. State and metro area rankings re ect the highest performing hospitals in the area across multiple areas of care.

As a locally owned family business with over 25 years of experience, we offer a wide range of foundation services which include waterproofing, foundation repair, crawl space repair, drain installation, and concrete lifting.

No job is too tough for us! When it’s too tough for everyone else, it’s just right for us. Our goal is to work together to find the right foundation repair solution for your home.

JENNIFER CRUMP

Columbia College recently announced the hiring of Jennifer Crump as associate vice president of recruiting and admissions. In this new role, Jennifer oversees strategic partnerships, recruitment, and admissions for the college’s traditional Day and Columbia College Global programs.

Jennifer is a two-time alumna of Columbia College, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice. Jennifer was also previously a member of the Columbia College staff, serving as assistant director of admissions. Jennifer previously served as vice president for Enrollment Management at William Woods University from 2020 to 2022 and associate director of Admissions from 2017 to 2020. She has been a member of the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers since 2007 and was awarded the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center Award in 2018. She is also a member of both the Missouri and National Associations for College Admissions Counseling.

that her body grew her baby, birthed her baby, and can provide food to nourish her baby is so special.” Becky earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from MU.

J. SCOTT CHRISTIANSON

J. Scott Christianson has been named director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) at the Trulaske College of Business at MU. Prior to joining the college, he owned and operated Kaleidoscope Videoconferencing for 15 years and served as vice president for the State Technical College Board of Regents. Scott has extensive experience and thought leadership in technology, information systems, and startups, making him uniquely situated to lead a center focused on entrepreneurship and innovation. Under his leadership, the center will focus on international entrepreneurship and collaboration, integrating with the MU Institute, and developing and delivering entrepreneurship programs within the college and across campus.

has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, including the last seven years of executive leadership roles at Saint Leo University. Prior to Saint Leo, he worked as associate director of Academic Services for Purdue University Global from 2005 to 2012. Dr. Hamilton holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from Johnson & Wales University, a master’s degree in management and change leadership from Kaplan University, and a Doctor of Education degree in educational leadership from Northcentral University.

BECKY PEMBERTON

Compass Chiropractic & Wellness is excited to announce the addition of Becky Pemberton, IBCLC, to its team. Becky is passionate about supporting all families in their breastfeeding journey. “Reminding moms of the miracle their body is and

DR. SHADEL HAMILTON Columbia College announced that Dr. Shadel Hamilton will serve as the vice president for Columbia College Global (CCG). Hamilton will join the college in September, and he will oversee all CCG operations across its 40 campuses and online platforms. Dr. Hamilton

WILBUR LIN

After a year-long search, the Missouri Symphony (MOSY) Board of Directors announced internationally acclaimed conductor Wilbur Lin was appointed the new music director designate of the Missouri Symphony Orchestra and Missouri Symphony Conservatory. Recent highlights include his debut with the Taipei Symphony Orchestra, and guest appearances with the Indianapolis Chamber, LaPorte Symphony, and Taiwan Symphony Orchestra Academy orchestras. Wilbur also recently finished his tenure as assistant conductor with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. His first engagement in COMO will be September 18 at the opening rehearsal for the Missouri Symphony Conservatory fall 2022 semester.

CRUMP

PEMBERTON

CHRISTIANSON

HAMILTON

LIN

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.

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH (NDEAM) !

Disability: PART OF THE

We are always looking for businesses to hire our students!

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Woodhaven’s Director of Community Employment, Tara Shade at TShade@woodhaventeam.org. woodhaventeam.org

BLaZInG

a TRaIL TO

ory

Fr. Tolton Catholic High School’s baseball team captured the program’s first-ever state championship, and head coach Ehrich Chick was named Boone County Coach of the Year.

BY JULES N. GRAEBNER

Like a story straight from the silver screen, the Fr. Tolton Catholic High School baseball team took its season by storm to win their rst state championship in history. Under the guidance of head coach Ehrich Chick, the Trailblazers ripped o 14-straight wins, outlasting and outplaying opponents they’d previously fallen short against.

As an institution, Fr. Tolton is no stranger to titles. e basketball, track and eld, cross country, and cheer programs — just to name a few — have all cinched the coveted top spot in the state, so the baseball team’s momentous win was a long time coming.

THIS TIME, THE TRAILBLAZERS HAD SOMETHING TO PROVE.

“After losing to Ellsbury in the quarter nal last year, it stung,” Ehrich said of his team, which was senior-heavy last season. “ ey were there when we got beat, so the guys got stronger in the o season; they worked on their craft and did a lot on their own, which made a huge di erence.”

Ehrich says that the team’s biggest goal was to reach the quarter nals again this season. ough the Trailblazers had a rocky start, once they started winning games, they didn’t stop. Even against talented teams, the Trailblazers held their own, but they were focused on one team in particular.

“For us, it was setting up for that Cinderella moment. We knew we wanted to play Ellsbury in the quarter nals game,” Ehrich remembers. “When we saw that we were going to face them, they were a whole di erent team at that point.”

Aware that the young team would enter the game with a chip on its shoulder, Ehrich could have been apprehensive about the players cracking under pressure. But, as it turns out, he didn’t need to be.

“ ey were locked in from start to nish, and when we got to that last out and that dog pile happened…” he laughs, trailing o .

“It was something that I had never seen before, just the culture of the [baseball] program,” he notes. “I think it’s just their personalities. ey’re more laid-back and easygoing than other teenagers that I’ve coached before. ey knew they had the talent and the ability to compete, but they didn’t think they were the best by any means. But they knew that they could compete against the best.”

Which is exactly what the Fr. Tolton Trailblazers did. After winning the semi nal game with the same calm, cool, and collected demeanor, the team went to the state nals for the rst time to face the Spring eld Catholic Fighting Irish.

Luckily, the Trailblazers had the full support of the Fr. Tolton students and sta behind them.

“We’re a community here, we’re all rooting for each other,” says athletic and activities director Pat Kelly. “Baseball was the last sport standing as far as our spring sports, so all eyes were on the baseball team. We had a pretty good crowd that traveled all the way down from Columbia to Spring eld just to watch the state championship game.”

LOCAL MSHSAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS THROUGH THE YEARS

Battle High School:

2014 Class 5 Football

Columbia Independent High School:

2022 Class 2 Scholar Bowl

Father Tolton Regional Catholic High School:

2015 Class 2 Girls Track & Field

2016 Class 3 Boys Basketball Class 2 Girls Track & Field

2020 Class 2 Softball

2021 Class 3 Girls Cross Country Class 2 Boys Track & Field

2022 Class 2 Boys Cross Country Class 3 Baseball Class 3 Boys Golf

Hickman High School:

1931 Boys Wrestling

1935 Boys Wrestling

1936 Boys Wrestling Boys Basketball

1962 Class L Boys Basketball

1964 Boys Indoor Track

1966 Boys Golf

1967 Boys Golf

1968 Boys Golf

1974 Class 4A Football

1976 Boys Swimming & Diving

1980 Girls Cross Country

1981 Girls Cross Country Class 4A Girls Track & Field

1990 Class 4A Baseball State

1991 Girls Swimming & Diving

1994 Class 4A Boys Tennis

1995 Girls Swimming & Diving

1996 Girls Swimming & Diving

1998 Class 4A Boys Cross Country

2004 Class 6 Football

2005 Class 4 Baseball

Photos by Steve Long

LOCAL MSHSAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS THROUGH THE YEARS, CONTINUED

Rock Bridge High School:

1975 Class 3A Football

1977 Class 3A Football

1979 Boys Golf

1982 Girls Tennis State

1983 Girls Tennis

1984 Girls Tennis

1997 Class 4A Boys Golf

1999 Class 4A Girls Tennis

2002 Class 2 Girls Tennis

2003 Class 2 Girls Tennis

2008 Class 5 Girls Basketball

Class 2 Boys Tennis

2010 Class 2 Boys Tennis

Class 2 Girls Tennis

2011 Class 4 Boys Golf

Class 2 Boys Tennis

Class 2 Girls Golf

Class 2 Girls Tennis

Class 4 Boys Cross Country

2012 Girls Swimming & Diving

Class 5 Girls Basketball

Class 2 Boys Tennis

Class 2 Girls Golf

2013 Class 5 Girls Basketball

2014 Class 5 Girls Basketball

Class 4 Boys Golf

Class 5 Baseball

Class 2 Girls Tennis

2015 Girls Swimming & Diving

Class 5 Girls Basketball

Class 4 Boys Golf

Class 2 Girls Tennis

Boys Swimming & Diving

2016 Girls Swimming & Diving

Class 2 Boys Tennis

Class 2 Girls Tennis

2017 Class 2 Boys Tennis

Class 2 Girls Tennis

Class 2 Boys Swimming & Diving

2018 Class 2 Girls Swimming & Diving

Class 4 Boys Golf

Class 2 Boys Tennis

Class 2 Girls Tennis

2019 Class 5 Boys Basketball

Class 2 Boys Tennis

2020 Class 5 Softball

Class 5 Boys Cross Country

2021 Class 5 Boys Track & Field

2022 Class 5 Boys Track & Field

THINGS WEREN’T LOOKING GOOD FOR THE TRAILBLAZERS AT THE START OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME.

“We knew going into it that Spring eld Catholic was legit—I mean, they were good—both well-put together and wellcoached,” Ehrich says. “I thought, ‘If we lose by one or two runs, great! Nothing like getting to the nals for the rst time.’”

Ehrich’s “just happy to be here” attitude was supplemented by the fact that a few of the opposing team’s players had committed to play for MU, with pitchers clocking speeds of up to 90 miles per hour. Once he saw his lead-o hitter “crank” a Springeld Catholic-delivered fastball toward the stands, everything changed.

“I started realizing, ‘We have a shot to win.’ e guys in the dugouts sensed it, too,” he recalls. Despite Spring eld Catholic’s 3-0 lead, the Trailblazers were able to stay composed and take the lead for themselves.

“We battled back and scored 6-8 runs in the next two innings. I mean, our guys just weren’t ustered,” Ehrich marvels. “ e team wasn’t fazed by any opponent, and I think that’s why we came out on top at the end. ese guys focused on staying level-headed the whole time, which really shows, especially for teenagers.”

e Trailblazers triumphed 8-4 to grab the crown and bring the trophy to an elated student body. But the celebrations didn’t end there.

EHRICH GRABS SOME RECOGNITION OF HIS OWN.

“I was aware of the awards,” Ehrich says somewhat furtively, but admits he had no idea that he had been considered for the award. “When the Tribune called, I just looked at my wife and chuckled. She was so excited because she knew how much work I put into this program.”

Ehrich explains that he was shocked to hear that he had won the honor over other successful coaches. But he is doing his best to stay humble.

“It’s an ego-booster for sure,” he laughs. “But being recognized for what the kids — our team — has done is such a good thing. It’s a cool award.”

After such a historic season, a state championship win, and being named Boone County Coach of the Year, the Columbia community will be expecting big things from the Trailblazers and Ehrich.

“Do I feel pressure?” Ehrich wonders, taking a moment to think. “Not yet, but the baseball team’s mood is that they’re up for the challenge.”

TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN HELPING TO SECURE MSHSAA EVENT BIDS:

Isaiah Bonaparte

A Supreme (Re)Start

Columbia Supreme goes beyond basketball to change lives for high-risk youth.

BY HANNAH ROBERTSON

In each Columbia Supreme athlete, founder Anthony Johnson sees a bit of himself. Not too long ago, he was in their same shoes. Anthony was raised right here in Columbia, attending Frederick Douglass High School. He has always had a passion for basketball, but Anthony’s family was unable to a ord the costs of membership to traveling basketball teams. He didn’t let his circumstances stop him from pursuing that passion though; you could oftentimes nd the young man playing, even by himself, on the nearest public basketball court.

Re ecting on his life, Anthony views basketball and the people he met through it as a saving grace. “I was a high-risk kid growing up, and I was de nitely headed down the wrong path. But playing sports and meeting the right mentors allowed me

to turn my life around.” He used his own experience, which taught him the impact positive in uences at a young age can have on a person’s life trajectory, as inspiration for his life mission. “I went from seeming like someone that would end up in jail or dead to a college graduate and somebody that people could look up to. I gured if I could repeat that pattern, I could make the same di erence in other kids’ lives.”

Now, Anthony works every day to ful ll his personal mission and create barrier-free basketball in his community through the non-pro t he founded, Columbia Supreme.

Columbia Supreme, in some ways, owes its start to Anthony’s nephew. When his basketball team lost their coach, Anthony stepped in as a volunteer interim coach.

“I was ‘volunteering’ for a good, long time,” Anthony jokes. He found that as a

Columbia Supreme

Mission

We strive to improve the long-term outcomes for high-risk youth while improving inclusion and diversity in the area.

Board Members

• Anthony Johnson, President

• Stephanie Bonaparte, Vice President

• Consuela Johnson, Treasurer

• Vesna Johnson, Secretary

• David Townsend

• Elizabeth Johnson

• Brei Cornell

• Amber Bussey

Ways to Help

To support Columbia Supreme and the work it does to improve the lifelong outcomes of at-risk youth, consider donating to the organization or sponsoring an event.

Donate online, using Venmo or Cashapp. Please put “Donation” in the memo area, and include name, address, and phone number.

Venmo: @ColumbiaSupreme-Basketball

Cash App: $ColumbiaSupreme

coach, he could motivate youth through sports and keep a closer eye on those that need it. When the team dissolved, Anthony worked to keep it going and expand; thus, Columbia Supreme was born.

In time, Anthony became aware of another obstacle outside of nances that stood in young athletes’ way; gender. ere were limited opportunities available for young girls in the surrounding area who want to pursue competitive basketball, and even less for those who also come from low-income families. From then on, providing aid to both female and low-income youth became Anthony’s priority.

e female basketball program is run by Anthony’s “Number Two,” Ellie Johnson. Ellie joined Columbia Supreme in November of 2018, after previously coaching at Battle High School. “It was a really great opportunity to get into coaching again and I love being able to work with young women; molding them, giving back, and empowering women in general. When Anthony approached me with the opportunity, it was a no-brainer.”

Ellie shares the same passion Anthony has for Columbia Supreme’s mission and the children they serve. “I love being a positive role model. e girls are like open books and it’s easier for me on this side of the ropes, especially helping parents with issues and concerns. We’re close-knit after four years - ey’re like my kids! I couldn’t give them up in the world. I’ve had other career opportunities in basketball, but these are my babies.”

Basketball is not the only sport - or bene cial program - that Columbia Supreme o ers. Currently, there is also a track pro-

gram and a fth-grade football team; but Anthony is always working to expand.

Additionally, they o er a mentorship program known as “Y.E.A.R.N.,” which stands for Youth Empowerment And Resource Network, intended for children ages 12 and up. is program o ers nancial literacy, mentorship, and business skills lessons. is is part of Anthony’s larger goal of empowering youth to take charge and create their own path to a successful future, regardless of their past.

“We go over life scenarios with the kids and discuss decision-making in those moments. We have conversations with them that we wish people had with us when we were younger.” Anthony says.

He went on to describe how the mentorship program helps keep people in a positive state, with a group to hold them accountable; something that helped him change his own life. “A big thing in my situation was accountability and just knowing there were people around me who cared about me. When I made mistakes, I saw that it was hurting people that cared about me. Suddenly my mistakes hurt, cause I cared about them too.”

Columbia Supreme members are also encouraged to get involved in their local community. Anthony says this is important to raise their social awareness and “make it cool to do the right thing and be a good person.”

e majority of Columbia Supreme members belong to minority and/or low-income demographics, aligning with Anthony’s background and the organization’s mission. “I don’t charge anywhere near what it costs to run the program, so they can

a ord to come here.” Most are from Columbia, but some come from surrounding communities like Moberly, Centralia, and Je erson City. e typical age range is 3rd to 12th grade, but they have taken younger children who need the program.

Columbia Supreme’s board is made up entirely of volunteers, who do what they do for the love of the kids. Regarding what he enjoys most about his work, Anthony said: “Honestly it’s the relationships. It’s really satisfying when you see the impact you’re having. I know that these kids would not have this opportunity without us. Even on a small scale, we’re making a big impact on our community with just a handful of people.”

Anthony was awarded the 2021 Sherman Brown Award by the Columbia Missourian as part of the Missourian Progress Awards for his work with Columbia Supreme. is award “Recognizes a community member who, like its namesake, serves his or her neighbors, patrons or acustomers with the highest esteem and commitment to treating each and every person ‘like gold.’”

To achieve its mission of o ering barrier-free basketball (and other programs), Columbia Supreme depends on fundraising and grants. Anthony hopes that with more funding in the future they will be able to expand on their mission and pay sta members.

COLUMBIA SUPREME P.O. Box 234 Columbia, MO, 65205 columbiasupreme.com Como.Supreme@gmail.com 573-219-1840

Columbia Supreme moms out to dinner.

Members of Columbia Supreme at a Chicago escape room.

Monica Smith

Chief Operating Officer Boone Health Event Chair

Combining Forces

Patient-centered care embedded within the COMO community.

BY TAYLOR AMBRA | PHOTOS BY LANA EKLUND

What started as two separate entities has now merged into the largest privately owned outpatient physical therapy company in Missouri: PEAK Sport and Spine.

In November 2014, Phillip Smith, Mark Dempsey, Todd Ankenman, and Shaon Fry joined their respective companies of Sport and Spine and Peak Performance Physical erapy together to form PEAK Sport and Spine. Both companies realized they had the same mission and would be stronger working together rather than as competitors.

“We have become a larger company but remain small enough to provide personalized, one-on-one therapy for our patients,” director of marketing and sports medicine Stefanie West said.

A UNIQUE CARE APPROACH

Since opening, PEAK Sport and Spine physical therapists have been able to provide patient-centered care to individuals across Missouri with 55 convenient clinic locations. Although the clin-

ic is a Missouri original, it’s expanded outside of the state borders. You can nd a total of 85 clinics scattered between nine di erent states.

PEAK Sport and Spine prides itself as being privately and therapist-owned, which allows each clinic to make professional decisions that are best for their patients without outside forces impacting those decisions. With the company’s patient-centered approach, recovery is directed by the patient and their healthcare team.

Stefanie says that each PEAK Sport and Spine patient becomes a part of the family. She adds that seeing clients several times a week over an extended period allows the therapists to stay up to date on their lives and what is most meaningful to them. With the PEAK Sport and Spine professionals found both within the clinic and various community settings, it is easy to see how putting roots down in here has helped them forge strong connections with individual patients.

INDIVIDUALIZED SERVICES

PEAK Sport and Spine o ers physical therapy, hand therapy, sports medicine, industrial rehabilitation, and specialty services to individuals of any age. Each physical therapist works individually with their patient to customize a treatment plan that best ts the needs and goals of the patient.

e bene ts of physical therapy can include pain management; injury recovery; improved mobility, movement, and balance; surgery avoidance, and more. Hand therapy is guided by Certi ed Hand erapists (CHT) to provide treatment for any condition that a ects the upper extremity, including the hand, wrist, arm, elbow, and shoulder.

e CHTs at PEAK Sport and Spine can treat arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, swelling, numbness, weakness, and other ailments.

e sports medicine side of PEAK Sport and Spine can be seen in the clinic, in the classroom, and on the eld. e certi ed athletic trainers provide services to athletes in the clinic to restore function, decrease pain, and optimize performance. ey can also be found in classrooms across Mid-Missouri to provide education on sports medicine to students interested in the profession.

PEAK Sport and Spine partners with over 26 Mid-Missouri schools to provide care for student athletes. is helps enhance the sense of community found at PEAK Sport and Spine as their professionals are directly embedded within the community.

Stefanie says, “Our therapists live and work in the same communities as their clinics.”

e industrial rehabilitation side of the company provides care to the injured worker through work hardening, functional capacity evaluation, pre-employment and post-o er evaluations, job simulation therapy, validity testing, ergonomic consultation, and a patient education program.

e goal of industrial rehabilitation is to engage patients in individualized treatment plans that best serve their needs to have a successful return to work after injury. PEAK Sport and Spine also provides specialty services such as a core stabilization program, MLS laser therapy, cupping therapy, dry needling, blood ow restriction therapy, and a pelvic health management program.

Each service provided at PEAK Sport and Spine is ensured to t the patient’s needs through an individualized and patient-centered treatment approach which means the timeline for each service varies dependent on the patient and their needs.

THE FUTURE

PEAK Sport and Spine has provided superior care and found great success in the last eight years, but they aren’t done yet. e company is always searching for ways to expand and grow in both their size and skill set. e company has a heart to serve the community and will continue to embed their professionals and services within the community wherever they can.

COLUMBIA BERRYWOOD

3301 BERRYWOOD DRIVE, SUITE 204, COLUMBIA MO 65201 573-449-8771

CLINIC DIRECTOR – TODD ANKENMAN

COLUMBIA SOUTH

10 W. NIFONG BOULEVARD, SUITE 121, COLUMBIA MO 65203 573-442-5268

CLINIC DIRECTOR – SCOTT GRAHAM

COLUMBIA WEST

2003 W. BROADWAY, SUITE 105, COLUMBIA MO 65203 573-474-5111

CLINIC DIRECTOR – LINDSAY BELL PEAKSPORTSPINE.COM

TO PULASKI COUNTY,

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors in Pulaski County! Load your days with fun events like our Haunted Float Trips, the Route 66 Hogs and Frogs Festival, Frog Hill Half Marathon, Nasty Pulaski, and so much more! You don’t have to go far to get away.

Coach James P. Arnold

PHOTO BY LANA EKLUND

Director of Athletics, Columbia College

– MAYA ANGELOU

BY

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

I am entering my 21st year working in higher education. While the bulk of that time has been in athletics as a women’s basketball coach and administrator, I’ve also been blessed to work at some fantastic institutions with opportunities to contribute as director of residential life, interim vice president of enrollment management, adjunct faculty, baseball coach, women’s golf coach, and director of intramurals.

HOMETOWN Paw Paw, WV.

YEARS LIVED IN COLUMBIA Four.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER/ COMMUNITY ACTIVITY

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed serving the last three years on the Columbia Sports Commission. I also have a passion for the election process and have served as an election judge for the past ve years.

FAVORITE RECENT PROJECT Helping Columbia secure the return of the MSHSAA high school basketball tournaments and keep the other events. Also, winning the bid for Columbia and Columbia College to co-host the 2024, 2027, and 2030 NAIA Cross Country National Championship.

A COLUMBIA BUSINESSPERSON YOU ADMIRE AND WHY L’Mont & Kathy Betz – they have built a beautiful and long-term successful business with an emphasis on customer service, family values, and a quality product.

WHY YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR JOB

I get to spend time with young adults, work every day to support their journey, create a positive and safe environment for growth, and make their student-athlete experience rst class.

WHY YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR COMPANY

Prior to joining CC, I worked for peer institutions and always admired how CC

operates. ere is an expectation and the support to strive for excellence.

IF YOU WEREN’T DOING THIS FOR A LIVING, YOU WOULD Perhaps something in economic development or the political arena.

WHAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR PROFESSION

As with most professions, the “fun stu ” is about 8% of the work.

THE NEXT CHALLENGE FACING YOUR INDUSTRY e changes in amateur athletics and rising insurance and transportation costs.

YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL GOAL Complete my Ed.D. in higher education leadership.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED IN BUSINESS Leadership can be lonely, so be sure to have a support system of other leaders in place for re ection, advice, and venting.

HOW YOU WANT TO IMPACT THE COLUMBIA COMMUNITY Bringing more and more events and visitors to this fantastic community.

GREATEST STRENGTH I’m a problem solver.

GREATEST WEAKNESS Getting away from my phone.

WHAT YOU DO FOR FUN I love music, concerts, travel, and camping with my family.

FAMILY

My beautiful wife of 18 years, Lesley, teaches kindergarten at Grant Elementary and my daughter, Audrey, who is a freshman in high school.

FAVORITE PLACE IN COLUMBIA Broadway Brewery.

ACCOMPLISHMENT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF Being a rst-generation college graduate.

MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW THAT I went to college with Channing Tatum.

20 Under 40 honors a group of outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who excel in their industry, are company leaders, and are engaged community citizens.

In other words, each 20 Under 40 class represents the best of the best in Columbia. Past recipients are business owners, leaders of nonprofits, artists, police officers, firefighters, teachers, even tattoo artists.

COMO holds a certain distinction in precision sport shooting. Its shooting clubs instill responsibility, confidence, and sport for shooters of all skill sets.

BY MICHELLE TERHUNE | PHOTOS BY CHRIS PADGETT

For many COMO residents, gun ownership isn’t about politics. It revolves around precision, discipline, safety, and sport. For those who already own a gun or anyone who wants to learn how to shoot, COMO o ers some great options for education, enjoyment, safety, and competition.

Even though you may be familiar with the names of shooting clubs and ranges such as Green Valley Pistol and Ri e Club, Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports, and Target Masters, you may be unaware of the city’s place in global practical shooting competition. From learning gun safety basics to competing internationally, there’s something for everyone right here.

A RANGE OF OPTIONS

Green Valley is a private shooting club that also o ers members and non-members education and training in gun safety and concealed carry permit.

Founded 30-plus years ago, Target Masters o ers an indoor shooting range. And like Green Valley, they o er training and concealed-carry classes. eir basic pistol instruction course focuses on handling, loading, and shooting for self-defense. If you don’t own a handgun, you can rent or buy one there. Target Masters is a rearm retailer as well.

If handguns aren’t your thing, Prairie Grove may be a good t. ey're a shotgun sports club providing the public and members with opportunities for a variety of skeet and trap shooting events. If you don’t know how to shoot, Prairie Grove o ers safety and training opportunities.

Not everyone who visits these ranges are diehard gun owners. Many are beginners and others are more advanced. For competitive shooters, Green Valley and Prairie Grove o er multiple events for shooters of all ages. But when pros from around the world descend, it’s kind of a big deal and a big secret most COMO residents probably aren’t in on. e international competition is, in a word, “practical.”

PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT PRACTICAL SHOOTING

To get why so many are devoted to practical shooting sports, you rst need to understand what that means. Practical shooting is also referred to as "dynamic" or "action" shooting, which seems to be more apt names for the skill. Shooters use precision, power, and speed, changing positions and constantly moving as they work their way through stages of an obstacle course of targets.

e International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) is headquartered in Norway but was founded here in May 1976. Practical shooters from around the globe gathered here for a conference which resulted in participants creating a constitution for the organization, establishing rules for the sport, and electing its rst president. at’s where Green Valley Ri e and Pistol Club comes in.

COMO’S HISTORIC PLACE IN SPORTS SHOOTING

Green Valley Ri e and Pistol Club began as a spot for target practice on Green Valley Drive in Columbia in the 1930s. In 1955, this private shooting club incorporated as the Wyatt Range Shooting Range and moved to the Wyatt Lane range location which continues to operate today.

“In the 1970s, Ray Chapman set up a range for disciplined shooters and law enforcement o cers,” says James Avenell, associate member of the private club. “It had its genesis as a place for law enforcement o cers to get together on evenings and weekends, competing against each other for personal bests.”

Unless you’re a sports shooting enthusiast, you may not be familiar with Ray. A premier American sports shooter, marksman, and rearms instructor, he is one of the IPSC’s founding members and one of its rst champions.

Ray incorporated the Green Valley Rie and Pistol Club in the 1970s. In 1994, e Chapman Academy at Green Valley was established at the Hallsville ranges location. It o ered classes and organized shooting schedules and competitions.

“Ray Chapman was pretty much the genesis of the competitive nature that Green Valley now fosters,” James says.

SHOOTING AS SPORT

Shooting rearms, be it handguns, ri es, shotguns, or muzzleloaders, is an old sport. People used to use rearms to shoot wild game to feed families, and some still do. But those who want to ex their competitive shooting muscles in COMO don’t have far to travel.

Green Valley and Prairies Grove hosts several local, state, and regional shooting competitions. But for Green Valley,

TARGET MASTERS

targetmasters.net

4101 North Rangeline 573-443-3700

target@targetmasters.net

PRAIRIE GROVE SHOTGUN SPORTS

prairiegroveshotgunsports.com

1420 County Road 276 573-887-4747

shooting@prairiegroveshotgunsports.com

GREEN VALLEY RIFLE AND PISTOL CLUB

gvshoot.com PO Box 1343 573-696-3738

Email via website.

the “jewel in the crown,” as James calls it, is the Bianchi Cup Action Pistol shooting competition. Launched in 1979, the competition drew professional law enforcement shooters and semi-professional professional shooters from around the country. In the 1980s, the Bianchi Cup was opened to non-law enforcement ofcers which started the competition’s march toward where it is today.

“It is a worldwide event,” James says. “Competitors from di erent countries come to shoot as individuals and as teams. Teams from countries like Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Japan, and Jamaica will make their way over to Green Valley every May. ey shoot for the Bianchi Cup, which is also considered the non-o cial USA championship.”

SAFETY FIRST

ere are more than 350 members of the Green Valley Club. ose with voting rights decide issues such as range improvements, land acquisition, and

which organizations they want to permit to use their ranges. e U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit is a frequent visitor, using the ranges for training. Members of the Columbia Police Department and Federal Treasury employees train there as well.

“Safety rst” are the watchwords of these ranges, but that doesn’t take the fun or sport out of shooting. In fact, it’s paramount.

“We can get you comfortable understanding the dangers as well as the joys of shooting,” James says.

THE FAMILY THAT SHOOTS TOGETHER James started shooting primarily to teach his then 12-year-old son how to do it. He says his son wanted to learn, so James decided he needed to be more procient at it than his son. After four years of training at Green Valley, James made the USA Pistol Team. After ve years, his son made the USA Junior Pistol Team.

In 2018, his son won the Junior World Championship. eir shared passion for the sport gave them the opportunity to spend a lot of time together, which is something a lot of parents struggle with in the case of their own kids.

“It’s more than shooting,” James says. “It’s about discipline, preparation, safety, and how to fail forward. You aren’t going to win every match, so you need to learn how to fail forward.”

“He’s 23 now and still lives in Columbia,” James says. “We’ve had some really great memories and enjoyed every second of it. Dragging a teenager outside and into the fresh air and learning to understand and respect guns may not be for everyone, but it has been an awesome father-son experience for me.”

Range shooting for practice, prociency, and sport may not be the way some people want to spend their time. But there may be something to be said about getting away from screens and aiming for something new.

THE MAKING TEAM

Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Sports Commission is committed to bringing home the gold.

BY MICHELLE TERHUNE

I’m scrolling through a spreadsheet emailed to me by Zach Franklin, sports development supervisor for the Columbia Sports Commission. It’s sorted by the City of Columbia’s scal years (FY), which runs from Oct. 1 through Sept. 30. e sponsoring organizations are regional, statewide, and national. ere are 21 sports listed, from adaptive recreation to wrestling. Sports are for girls and boys, men and women, or both. ousands of participants, coaches, family, friends, and fans have traveled or will travel to COMO from FY 2017 to FY 2030 to compete.

Perhaps even more impressive are the numbers estimating the economic impact these events have on COMO. From FY 2017 through FY 2022, these events brought nearly $30 million to the city. From FY 2023 through FY 2030, the impact is currently estimated to be nearly $46 million. However, it will be signi cantly more once those years are fully booked with events. ey are dollars spent in COMO solely because these sports events are held here and not somewhere else.

“It doesn’t just happen,” says Amy Schneider, director of the Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). “ ere’s no magic wand.”

THERE’S A COMMISSION FOR THAT e Columbia Sports Commission is a formal commission of the City of Columbia charged with keeping the CVB Advisory Board updated regarding events and bid opportunities. e Commission also provides funding recommendations to the Advisory Board. Once approved by the board, the recommendations go to city council for approval.

Seven of the 11 voting members of the Sports Commission are appointed by the city council to ll speci c positions. Two represent COMO organizations that schedule regular sports activities and tournaments. ere is one representative each for small to mid-sized business, large business, and an at-large member. Two seats are reserved for representatives of the city’s hotels and mo-

tels. e other four seats are appointed by the MU chancellor, Columbia College president, Columbia Public Schools (CPS) superintendent, and the Chamber of Commerce executive director.

ere are also three nonvoting members representing the CVB, its advisory committee, and Columbia Parks and Recreation.

“If we get an RFP [request for proposal] for an event, who do we need to be involved from here? at’s why we have monthly commission meetings with the majority of the people we need at the table,” Zach says.

As a team of two – Zach, along with sports event coordinator Adam Ziervogel – can use all the help from partners they can muster. Although, they seem to be doing something right.

“Our experiences have been that the Columbia CVB and Sports Commission are indeed able to deliver positive event experiences, and it is due to the committed collaboration of the Columbia CVB and Sports Commission, Columbia’s event properties, and Columbia’s lodging and business community,” says Craig Long,

chief nancial o cer for the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA). “ e result is a very compelling and competitive opportunity for event planners looking for a home.”

NOT JUST ANY SPORTING EVENTS

Zach says that quality, not quantity, is what they strive to bring to town. “We try to be very aggressive in what we do,” he says. “We try to align our brand with organizations that are going to produce quality events. We want to work with groups that will deliver a positive product to our community.”

At the end of the day, it’s the rights holder of the event, such as MSHSAA, that do all the heavy lifting once a contract is awarded.

e Sports Commission and an ever-present number of volunteers who live and work in Columbia get the assist.

“Columbia has proven to be a warm and inviting community. We have great volunteers here, willing to volunteer for everything,” Amy says.

INDEX

A Secret Place Events 40

A1 Foundation Solutions 68

Accounting Plus 99

Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter..................... 24

American Heart Association 78

Anne Tuckley Home 39

Anthony Jinson Photography 12

Atkins Inc. 36

Baumgartner’s Furniture & Carpet 38

Boone Health 14

Burrell Behavioral Health 4

Central Missouri Foster Care 8

Columbia Convention & Visitors Bureau 75 Compass Chiropractic 18

Convergence Financial 7

Delight Events 2-3

Designer Kitchens & Baths 45

First Chance for Children 70

Hawthorn Bank 100

Job Point 9

Jones & Ueligger Law 51

Liberty Family Medicine 62

Little Dixie Construction 91

Lizzi and Rocco’s Natural Pet Market 26 Mediacom 11

Mid America Bank 52

Parks Amusements (Level Up) 5

Pulaski County Tourism Bureau 82

Rave Homes

64

Shelter Insurance - Mike Messer 51

Small Business Fest 16

State Farm - Phyllis Nichols 45

Superior Garden Center/Rost Landscape 37, 96

The Bank of Missouri 64

The Blue Note 13

The Broadway Hotel 82

The Missouri Symphony 52

The Trust Company 22

True/False Film Fest 28

True North 6

University of Missouri Health Care

20

We Always Swing Jazz Series 10

Wilson’s Fitness 40

Woodhaven 70

Being Good Sports

We reached out to our community for a insider look at some of the sports and activities the COMO kids are into!

1. Ila Rose Hickey, 13. 2. Baylee Johnson, 12. 3. Jackson Bush, 8. 4. Hayden Walter, 5th grade. 5. Jamison Weaver, 12. 6. Lena, 8, and Clay Busch, 12. 7. Brayden Nichols, 16. 8. Anna Hatchett, 8; and Maddie McCullar, 8. 9. Cruze Haynes, 13.

10. Ace Herman-Dawson, 14. 11. Kenley Conyers, 16. 12. Parker Hartman.

Harper White, 8. 14. Emma, 7; Hudson, 6; Jackson, 11, and PaPa. 15. Logan Baker, 13. 16. Sophia White, 6. 17. Ryder Whittaker, 8. 18. Jake Hawkins, 17. 19. Ryder March, 9.

Lauren Neimeyer, 16. 21. Kason Conyers, 13. 22. Charlee Buckman,

Karr,

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