Jefferson City Magazine january february 2018 issuu

vol.

43 A Business Times Company Publication

tenth annual

Missy Creed

DOGWOOD SOCIAL

SPONSORED CONTENT

HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR FINANCIAL HEALTH BY TRACY HIGGINS Find more at: rrcu.org

For 17 years, I’ve helped members reach their financial goals. It’s not always easy and certainly doesn’t happen overnight, but seeing the financial stability and happiness that comes from small lifestyle changes is incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re ready for a new financial strategy or simply taking the next step in your journey, consider how these practices can help improve your financial health.

KNOW WHERE YOU STAND Your spending patterns are the greatest indicators of financial health. If you find yourself taken aback by your credit card statement or wondering where that last paycheck went, perhaps it’s time to re-work your budget. If you don’t currently follow a budget, initiate one. Look at your spending history and recurring expenses. Then, construct a budget that fits your situation. And stick to it!

AVOID COMMON MISTAKES If you do everything you can to become financially fit, but still come up short, maybe it’s time to look at what you shouldn’t do. Here are two of the biggest and most common mistakes people make. 1. Not Balancing a Healthy Budget 2. Not Knowing How Credit Affects You Let’s face it: Finances are confusing! That’s why it’s important to have a good relationship with your financial institution. We have the resources you need to understand the impact of credit and establish a healthy budget for your situation.

financial fitness. If you haven’t re-evaluated

a low impact on your monthly budget and

your financial plan in the last 5 years, it’s time.

provides a great foundation for successful

Don’t hesitate to contact us when it comes to

saving. Want something more robust? We have

your financial health.

options for you.

Don’t wait to become more financially fit.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward

You can easily start today with our Payroll CD.

financial health, big or small, we can help. Stop

This product, requiring only $10 to start, has

by or give us a call – we can’t wait to meet you!

TRACY HIGGINS RIVER REGION CREDIT UNION

Tracy Higgins has been assisting credit union members for 17 years. A native of Jefferson City, she is passionate about helping every member she meets. On the weekends, you can find Tracy cheering on Mizzou or advocating for Juvenile Diabetes research.

REVISIT YOUR PLAN Financial success is the product of a solid financial plan, which includes insight about how you will achieve your short and long term financial goals. These goals evolve over time, making an updated plan crucial to your

573-635-4185 | thiggins@rrcu.org

Jefferson City Magazine | 43

Your space. Your pace.™ Available at:

1909 S. Country Club Dr JCMO | 573.893.3650 vaughanpools.com Serving Jefferson City, Columbia, Osage Beach, Sedalia and Rolla

 Follow us on Facebook

44 | January/February 2018

TOWN TALK

A W O R D F R O M T H E M AYO R

Carrie Tergin

The Day “Central Dairy Day” Almost Happened

y first mammogram was documented on the news when St. Mary’s had a “Mammathon,” so why not document my first colonoscopy? As mayor, I have a platform to get the message out — we should take care of ourselves. Thankfully, the press didn’t get word of my procedure, or they might have been there. My only regret is that I didn’t take a selfie, even though I’m sure most would want to keep this private. After all, why would anyone want to talk about this? Should I tell my neighbor why I was up all night? Should I tell City Hall why I wouldn’t be in that day? Of course I should, if for only one reason: to remind everyone the importance of health screenings, taking control of your health, visiting your dentist annually, getting eye exams, etc. Back to the colonoscopy. I armed myself with a pink Corkcicle cup to make the prep drink — the whole gallon of it — more bearable. The drink was so heavy I could hardly lift the container, and upon the first sip, I instantly realized I needed something to rescue my taste buds. I ran to the nearest gas station to purchase $10 worth of Juicy Fruit and Bubble Yum, which prompted the clerk to ask, “Someone have a sweet tooth?” to which I answered, “No, I’m having to drink that awful prep for my colonoscopy tomorrow, so I need this gum for the terrible taste.” You should have seen the look on her face. I’m sure the young clerk was wishing she could un-hear me! My next colonoscopy tip: find mindless TV to get your mind off of the prep. I found “The Bachelor,” which was beyond mindless and provided some eye candy to go along with the gum as I downed the awful prep. I almost gave up in the middle of the night, thinking I really

didn’t care what the results of this test would be, that I was done and couldn’t handle it. The nausea and exhaustion got to my head. My hospital transportation, Nurse Irene (Mother of the Mayor), showed up bright and early the morning of. When we arrived, the anesthesiologist said I might be out of it after the procedure, so “be sure not to sign anything important while under the anesthesia.” I deeply regret that nobody came to me with a “Central Dairy Day” proclamation; I would have signed it instantly. I was glad to go under during the procedure. I needed the sleep. The anesthesiologist was ready to send me to my happy place, which I told him was “somewhere on a beach with Dierks Bentley,” but the procedure was so fast, Dierks and I barely got on the plane! Colonoscopy results are available instantly, and I’m thankful that my test was good. This

procedure is lifesaving. Many problems, from digestive issues to cancer, can be found and treated thanks to a colonoscopy. To any who are avoiding this test due to embarrassment or thinking they’re fine: I urge you to do it. My grandfather George lived a full life to the age of 96. He wanted to live to 100, but colon cancer got him. So the doc says I’m good until my next one, which is great because I have enough gum to last me for five years. Thank you to Dr. Dundulis and the staff at Capital Region Hospital for making this awkward test an easy experience for someone like me who does not like to be a patient. A really great idea would be a prep that tastes like mint-chocolate-chip. I’m going to see if I can make that happen — whoever patents that will be a millionaire! #ToYourHealth! #OneLifeOneBody #MayorTergin

Jefferson City Magazine | 45

46 | January/February 2018

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Business Briefs Pro m ote d, h ired, reco g n i zed

VANCONIA

TUCKER

BRENT VANCONIA is proud to announce that SSM Health has been named one of 100 winners among Glassdoor’s annual Candidate’s Choice Awards, which honored the Best Places to Interview in 2017 according to those who know best — the interview candidates. Glassdoor, one of the world’s largest job sites, released its annual report highlighting the best places to interview based on candidate feedback shared over the past year. Among all U.S. companies considered, SSM Health received an overall interview experience rating of 83 percent based on positive interview experience ratings, interview duration, and level of interview difficulty. The rating puts SSM Health at No. 6 overall out of the 100 U.S. companies recognized by Glassdoor. Capital Region Medical Center is pleased to welcome GRACE TUCKER to the Capital Region Physicians group. Tucker received her Bachelor of Science in nursing from MU and her Master of Science in nursing from Maryville University. She is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Prior to joining Capital Region, Tucker most recently served as a registered nurse in the emergency department at Methodist Unity Point Hospital, in Peoria, Illinois. She has also been employed by University Hospital, in Columbia, as a registered nurse in the Trauma Surgical Intensive Care Unit. Originally from Pittsburg, Kansas, Tucker

FRETWELL

now resides in Columbia with her husband. She is ecstatic to be back in Missouri serving the Jefferson City area.

PATTERSON

YOUNKER

MBA with an emphasis in marketing from MU and a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg.

EMILY J. FRETWELL brings her decade of success as a Jefferson City attorney to the team at Call & Gentry Law Group. Fretwell earned her undergraduate degree in psychology with a minor in criminal justice from Columbia College in Columbia. She earned her law degree from MU in 2007. She’s admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for both the western and eastern districts of Missouri. She is also a member of the Cole County Bar Association and The Missouri Bar. Prior to joining the Call & Gentry Law Group team, Fretwell worked with another Jefferson City law firm for nearly a decade. She is a member of the American Association of Justice and has been voted by readers as one of Jefferson City’s top attorneys by the News Tribune’s Reader’s Choice in 2017 and by Jefferson City Magazine’s City’s Best in 2013 and 2016. Jefferson City Medical Group is pleased to welcome JAMIE PATTERSON as vice president of marketing and business development. Patterson joins JCMG during a period of unprecedented growth. Her 12 years of marketing experience and considerable expertise in online advertising and marketing strategy make her a valuable addition to the JCMG administration team. Most recently, Patterson served as the director of digital services for the Business Times Company in Columbia. She holds an

“JCMG is an organization I’ve always admired,” says Patterson. “The service JCMG provides is so valuable to MidMissouri. I am excited to take the reins of this brand and lead it forward.” SSM Health Medical Group welcomes JOANNA YOUNKER, D.O., to the Jefferson City Family Medicine Clinic located at 2511 W. Edgewood, Suite G. Younker earned her medical degree from DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency at the Palm Beach Consortium for Graduate Medical Education at St. Lucie Medical Center in Florida. She is board certified in family medicine and osteopathic manipulative treatment. She holds a professional membership with the American Osteopathic Association and is a diplomate of the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians. “As a family medicine physician, I have the unique and rewarding position of treating people at all phases of life,” Younker says. “I strive to love, serve, and listen to my patients.” In addition to full-spectrum primary care, Dr. Younker’s professional interests include women’s health from adolescence through child-bearing years as well as supporting the transition through the emotional and physical changes of menopause. Jefferson City Magazine | 47

Dr. Matt Brooks

The Actor-Turned-Family-Doctor Tell us about your background as an actor. I started acting as a child in school plays and local community theater. I studied theater on scholarships and worked summer theatre and local gigs throughout my training. I then chased the dream for years in NY and in LA. The reality of pursuing a career in acting meant always moving and always looking for the next job. I realized that I’d never be able to settle down and have all the other things I wanted in life. Wife. Kids. Stability.

What led you to medicine? Not to sound too grandiose, but I’d say God led me to it. I wanted to use the gifts He’d given me to help those around me, instead of just glorifying myself. And with the decision to leave acting, I prayed hard and tried a few different routes, but then everything in my life lined up to say, “This is the way.” I just followed the path He put me on.

How does an arts background impact you as a physician? My years in theatre put me in contact with a WIDE variety of people. In theatre, you work very closely with a whole new set of people and personalities every 8-12 weeks. You get to know each other fast, and then it’s time to move on. It’s a great education in the study of human nature. Now, that background lets me get a good sense of people from the time I step

in the room. It informs my ability to meet them where they are and find the best way to help them.

Why did you go into family medicine at JCMG?

JCMG has a unique business model in that it is physician owned and operated. Hospitals and hospital networks are operated by business managers and administrators. Which isn’t to say that they don’t care about the patients, but I do think they tend to put the business before the people. Doctors become doctors because they want to help people. I like having the freedom to determine how to best care for my patients.

You offer primary care for entire families. Do kids benefit from seeing the same doctor as their parents? Absolutely. When you treat the whole family, you have the best insight and perspective on how to help everyone. For example, childhood obesity is rarely the child’s fault, but if you’re only treating the child, you may not have the relationship or be able to convince the parents that fixing the problem starts by changing THEIR lifestyle, not just the lifestyle of their children.

What’s the best part so far about life in Jefferson City?

The people. I’m surrounded by great people at work, great neighbors at home, and great patients in my office. My kids love their teachers and my wife has made great friends here in a relatively short period of time. I don’t see us moving ever.

Make an appointment with Dr. Brooks: 635-5264 48 | January/February 2018

JCMG.org

“Your Home’s Comfort Keeper” Sales • Service • Repair Installation • Replacement

Factory Authorized Dealer

Humidifiers • Air Cleaners • Heat Pumps Geo Thermal Ground Source Furnaces & Air Conditioners

Residential & Commercial MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS AVAILABLE

Celebrating 85 Years

Free Estimates on New Installations 573-893-3131 217 Commerce Drive • Jefferson City www.woodmanengineering.com

24 Hour Emergency Service On All Makes

CITY’S J E F F E R S O N

1st

PLACE

201 6

50 Off $10 Off

Replacement of a Unit 573-893-3131

217 Commerce Drive • Jefferson City

Your Next Service Call 573-893-3131

217 Commerce Drive • Jefferson City

www.woodmanengineering.com

Must be presented at time of service.

At Wallstreet Group, customer satisfaction isn’t only a goal, it’s a promise we’ve upheld for 30 years. As a full service insurance, group benefits, and financial services agency, our team is comprised of proven professionals with expertise in an array of specialty fields EMPLOYEE GROUP BENEFITS COMMERCIAL INSURANCE INDIVIDUAL HEALTH & LIFE FINANCIAL PLANNING WORKSITE PRODUCTS

From left, principals: Lee Wilbers, Randy Lueckenotte, and Dick Peerson.

Phone (573) 636-3222 | Fax (573) 636-3380 | WallStreetIns.com 1530 Rax Court | Jefferson City, Mo 65109

Call us today to give us the opportunity to earn your trust and business! Jefferson City Magazine | 49

CURRENTS

Yoga at the Library Every Wednesday night and Thursday morning, head over to Missouri River Regional Library for an hour of yoga. Participants of any ability level are welcome, and it’s free! Take the time to relax and rejuvenate — all you need is a mat or towel. Contact Karen Anderson or Kira Michaelieu for more information. Walk-ins welcome!

American Heart Month February is the perfect month to make sure you know the symptoms of heart attack and stroke. If you’re having chest or upper body discomfort, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness, you could be having a heart attack and should call 911 immediately. For stroke, remember FAST (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, time to call 911). Learn more about symptoms, risk factors, and wellness tools at heart.org.

Largest Bridal Show in Central Missouri On January 7, head over to The Linc at 1299 Lafayette St. for the Central Missouri Bridal Association's 31st Annual Bridal Spectacular. Exhibits from many local vendors are open from 12 to 4 p.m. with a runway show at 3:30. Tickets are available at the door for $5 (kids 5 years old and younger are free). Brides-to-be can register at midmobrides.com for expedient entry.

Capital Arts Exhibitions Support local artists by stopping by Capital Arts. From January 5 through February 13, art depicting interpretations of shadows and reflections will be displayed with a reception on January 21 from 1 to 4 p.m. From February 16 through March 20, Art by Men, For Men, About Men will be showcased with a reception on March 9 from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Awards $7,300 in Scholarships The St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation has awarded 13 scholarships to individuals pursuing nursing degrees and other training to further their professional abilities in health care. The 2017 scholarship recipients include: Sandra Abbot, Russellville; Jane Bauer, Freeburg; Sharon Breuer, Jefferson City; Carlene Green, Jefferson City; Marcella Groce, Eldon; Jennifer Hyleck Jefferson City; Sheryl McClain, Holts Summit, Kristie McGonegal, Jefferson City; Brandon McIntire, Jefferson City; Lacie Nixdorf, Tuscumbia; Jill Rikard, Linn; Emily Strope, Jefferson City; and Alicia Weber, New Bloomfield. The foundation has awarded more than $140,000 in scholarships since the inception of the scholarship fund. Ongoing fundraising efforts support future student and employee scholarships. To learn more about making a donation or submitting an application, call the St. Mary’s Foundation Development Office at 573-681-3742.

50 | January/February 2018

CURRENTS

National Blood Donor Month This January, make a difference by donating blood or platelets. There are multiple locations to donate throughout the month: the Jefferson City Blood Donation Center, Missouri River Regional Library (on January 2), The Truman Building (on January 9 and 16), St. Joseph Cathedral (on January 12), Columbia College (on January 25), and Faith Lutheran Church (on January 28).

Show-Me Better Health Workshop This free several-week series is ideal for people with ongoing health conditions or people who care for someone with ongoing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, cancer, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and more. Participants in the ShowMe Better Health Chronic Disease Workshop will learn skills to help increase energy and physical activity; decrease pain, fatigue, depression, and health distress; and have fewer social limitations. The Show-Me Better Health workshop will be held at the Faith Lutheran Church, 2027 Industrial Dr. This series will be held on Mondays, January 8, 15, 22, and 29 and February 5, 12, and 19 from 1 to 3:30 p.m.

New Research Supports JCMG’s Weight Treatment Strategy For the first time, a study has demonstrated that remission of Type 2 diabetes can be achieved with a medically-supervised very-low-calorie program similar to the program offered by the Weight Treatment Center at JCMG. In a U.K. study published in The Lancet, researchers randomized 306 patients with Type 2 diabetes into two groups. One group remained on medication or usual treatments while a test group stopped medication and began a six-month physician-supervised verylow-calorie medical intervention. Results were remarkable. After one year, nearly half of the patients on the very-low-calorie program went into remission with their Type 2 diabetes versus only four percent of the control group taking medications. Jefferson City Magazine | 51

52 | January/February 2018

th l a e H d a he T o e __ from

Local doctors discuss the importance of wellness and their tips for staying healthy. by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D

f you’re like most, you’re looking toward 2018 wanting to be healthier. Whether you’ve decided to start a new workout routine or diet, cut out an unhealthy habit, or find ways to improve your overall wellness, it can be overwhelming to seek the best way to start the new year right. Physicians from Capital Region Medical Center, Jefferson City Medical Group, and SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital want to help you in your wellness journey with their expertise and tips for being well — from head to toe.

BRAIN As we age, the diseases and disorders of the brain become more and more prevalent. Memory loss is a huge concern for most Americans, including diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. There is a silver lining, though. Day to day, there are ways to help diminish our chances of developing these problems. “General health is very important for the brain,” says Dr. Ruthanna Hunter, Capital Region Physicians Neurology. “We are learning more and more about the role genetics play in our brain, but also how our lifestyle can affect it. There are genes we have that can lead to certain diseases, but our lifestyle can also impact whether or not those genes are activated. There are things we can do, even if we have one gene for a disease, to keep our brain healthy so years down the road we won’t have Alzheimer’s, strokes, or other disorders.” Strokes are indeed a major concern for many patients. “It’s very important to monitor things like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes,” says Hunter. “While those things can be hard to manage, because we don’t see the impact of those diseases until years DR. HUNTER’S TIPS: down the road, it’s critical • Exercise to never miss doses of • Eat right medication. What that’s • Read doing to the blood vessels • Socialize in your brain when your • Play games (brain blood pressure is high teasers, card games, or your blood sugar is etc.) not controlled — it’s • See your primary care damaging the walls of physician to manage the blood vessels. Over risk factors time, that damage leads to things like strokes.” 54 | January/February 2018

Additionally, sleep apnea is a major risk factor for strokes. “More than 70 percent of patients who have strokes have sleep apnea,” says Dr. Hunter. Dr. Hunter also stresses the importance of seeing a neurologist for headaches. Too often, people with chronic headaches write off their pain as simply sinus or stress headaches. More often than not, their symptoms are indicative of migraines. “If you are dealing with untreated migraines, it could lead to depression and other things that negatively affect your life,” says Dr. Hunter. “There’s something we can do about it to make your life better and help you enjoy your life.”

EARS Due to modern technology — technology that can be extremely loud — and other factors, hearing loss is becoming a more prevalent problem than ever before. Dr. Keri Salvatore, Capitol Region Physicians - ENT and Audiology, is working to prevent and fix this problem. “Hearing loss has been linked to a lot of issues we need to be aware of, like cognitive decline, dementia, and depression,” she says. “Hearing loss is the third most common chronic health condition in the U.S. It affects 36 million Americans.” Early detection of hearing loss is key. Untreated hearing loss can lead to fatigue, stress, depression, social withdrawal, increased risk to personal safety, and more. “Older adults with hearing loss are more likely to experience cognitive decline,” says Dr. Salvatore. “In fact, hearing loss was recently identified as the highest potentially modifiable risk factor for dementia — higher than diabetes, hypertension, obesity, physical inactivity, depression, and smoking.” Dr. Salvatore stresses that we’re all going to lose at least some of our hearing at some point in our lives. “I’ve never tested anyone over the age of about 64 who hasn’t had DR. SALVATORE’S TIPS: some degree of hearing • Wear hearing loss,” she says. “It’s going protection (If it hurts to happen. A healthy your ears, it’s too loud) lifestyle can help minimize • Keep headphone some of that, but the best volume at 50 percent thing you can do is not or below wait until the point where • Start seeing a doctor you stop participating in for hearing loss at age conversations.” 50 (even if you don’t A big concern of notice symptoms) audiologists like Dr. Salvatore is the

misconceptions associated with hearing aids. Too many people allow hearing loss to develop past a point of no return because of this. “People assume all hearing aids are huge and bulky, and they don’t want everyone to know they have a hearing problem,” says Dr. Salvatore. “I try to impress upon patients that it’s much more obvious when you’re not participating in conversations than a tiny little hearing aid behind your ear is.” As far as expenses go, there are many price points for different levels of technology, and payment plans are always available. Plus, the technology of hearing aids has expanded enormously in recent years — the bulky pieces are nearly a thing of the past.

SINUSES AND AIRWAYS Dr. Reese Thompson is an ENT at Jefferson City Medical Group. As an ENT, he deals with all the structures of the head and neck, the upper airway, ears, nose, sinuses, and oral health. All these, as Missourians know thanks to our horrible allergy seasons, can present issues. From Dr. Salvatore, we know the importance of keeping our hearing intact, but Dr. Thompson wants to drive home the idea of watching how today’s tech affects our hearing. “With the advent of MP3 players, we’re seeing hearing loss develop in younger patients because of incorrect use,” he says. In addition, Dr. Thompson sees a lot of patients for simpler DR. THOMPSON’S TIPS: things, like build up of • Be cognizant of noise earwax. “One of the exposure for you and things we recommend your children to patients is just simply • Avoid excessive flushing the ear gently consumption of maybe once a week with alcohol plain white vinegar,” • Reduce nicotine he says. “If you don’t consumption have any underlying ear • Monitor caffeine problems, this can help consumption keep the ears clean of • Maintain a healthy unwanted organisms and weight excessive wax and things • Exercise regularly like that. • Do not — repeat, do “As far as things not — use cotton like the airway,” he swabs in the ear continues, “there excessively are new, interesting • Avoid ear candles techniques for helping patients with obstructive

sleep apnea.” This is a problem occurring more and more in recent years, and can significantly increase your risk of heart disease, respiratory problems, and death. To aid in this problem, Dr. Thompson has some advice: “Some things you can do would be to treat any underlying or associated conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and others.” For your nose, Dr. Thompson stresses reading the instructions on nose spray for daily versus temporary use. “Decongestant spray says it right on the box — do not use it for more than three days without consulting your physician,” he says. “Prolonged use of those sprays on a daily basis will damage the lining of the nose. We frequently recommend to our patients for nasal and sinus health a regular irrigation with a salt water solution. It naturally decongests the nose and flushes out allergens.”

HEART Dr. Allyson Walker at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital would prefer not to see you. Don’t be offended — she’s a cardiac surgeon, so seeing her means you already have a significant problem. “Usually by the time people see me, they’ve already been in a place where medications and less invasive procedures have not worked for their health,” she says. “So if you want to be in a place where you hopefully don’t get to see me, I think that’s where the importance [of heart health] comes in.” Unfortunately, genetics plays a huge role in heart health. However, there are ways we can live our lives to lower our risks. “I tell folks it’s like building on sand,” says Dr. Walker. “If the genetics is sand, and you’re already on shaky ground, you can’t blame genetics when you start building on top of that shaky ground.” One of Missouri’s biggest risk factors for heart problems is DR. WALKER’S TIPS: smoking, and not just • Stop smoking cigarettes. “It’s also • Exercise (minimum e-cigarettes,” says 30 minutes a day) Dr. Walker. “It’s not • Eat healthy, with simply the carbon and plenty of colorful particulate matter in the vegetables and very cigarette itself — it’s also few fried foods the nicotine. Nicotine • Go to your primary has a really significant care physician vasoactive component regularly which hardens the arteries. Simply going Jefferson City Magazine | 55

Call & Gentry Law Group, LLC welcomes attorney

EMILY J. FRETWELL

Emily joins our team with 10 years of success and experience helping clients with divorce, child custody, adoption, DWI and personal injury. Call Emily at 573-644-6090 or reach her at emily@callgentry.com

Call & Gentry Law Group

3218 Emerald Lane, Suite C Jefferson City, MO 65109 Phone: (573) 644-6090 | contact@callgentry.com

www.CallGentry.com The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.

56 | January/February 2018

from old-fashioned cigarettes to the new vapes doesn’t help. You need to stop smoking altogether.” A good way to avoid Dr. Walker’s office is regularly seeing your primary care physician. Something Dr. Walker hears often is “I was perfectly healthy until I got here.” She says this is not true 99 percent of the time. “If you take a look at their statistics, they weren’t,” she says. “People just feel good until they don’t.” Also, if you’re on medication for blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes, it’s very important to continue taking that medication, even if you're feeling better. “You’re feeling better because the medication is doing its job,” says Dr. Walker. “There’s only so much a physician can do,” she continues. “You may get to a point where there is nothing we can do for you to get you to a lifestyle where you want to be because science has its limits. You have to help us help you.”

LUNGS We hear it all the time: exercise is important. But Dr. Mohammad Jarbou, MD, pulmonologist at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, can’t stress its importance enough for lung health. “The more you exercise, the more you benefit,” he says. “To have it be part of your daily routine is priceless. If you cannot go to the gym, you need to at least do daily walking, using the stairs instead of the elevator, dancing.” Another important aspect of lung health is, obviously, avoiding exposures. “Number one is smoking,” says Jarbou. “Smoking is the number DR. JARBOU’S TIPS: one reason for people • Exercise coming to see me in the • Do not smoke clinic. And secondhand • Regular nasal smoke can be just as bad irrigation as smoking itself.” • For patients with Again, for Missourians, severe allergy a potential health hazard, symptoms: Avoid particularly for lungs, curtains, carpet, and is allergies. “It’s a very pets (particularly common problem,” cats and birds) in says Jarbou. “Allergy the bedroom; wash management can be your comforter once tricky. We don’t want a week in hot water; our patients to live in a vacuum once a week bubble, we don’t want them to stay away from

everything. We live in Mid-Missouri, so there are going to be allergies.” Thankfully, Dr. Jarbou says, “There’s a simple maneuver we recommend, and I think everyone should do it.” As Dr. Thompson also recommended, the best course of action is regular nasal irrigation. “I tell a lot of my patients,” he continues, “if you live in Mid-Missouri, you should do it like brushing your teeth.” Dr. Jarbou has another call-to-action for us as well: if you experience any abnormal breathing symptoms, see your primary physician immediately. “If patients are experiencing persistent cough, wheezing, night symptoms, or anything disturbing their daily life, they need to be seen,” he says. “We also like to recommend people buy local products, like honey, to help with allergies.” That’s a simple diet change that can help reduce allergy symptoms.

STOMACH “The most important thing I do is screen for colon cancer,” says Dr. Sara Echelmeyer, gastroenterologist at Jefferson City Medical Group. “That’s huge for us because colonoscopy allows us to not only screen, but also detect and prevent cancer.” Dr. Echelmeyer also urges her patients to understand that the brain and the stomach are very closely related. “When you’re stressed or anxious, a lot of that plays in your gut,” she says. “The same receptors in your brain are also in your intestines. So that stress and anxiety may seem well controlled, but it’s creating problems in your stomach. It’s important to understand that physiology, because DR. ECHELMEYER’S TIPS: it really affects people. It • Have your first can cause diarrhea and colonoscopy at age constipation.” 50, then every 10 Fortunately, there are years thereafter a few ways to relieve the • If you have a family stress or anxiety affecting history of colon your stomach. Finding cancer, go earlier a way to meditate that • If you’re Africanworks for you, exercising American, go at age 45 regularly, and eating well • Manage stress and can really help control anxiety through those symptoms. meditation “In my field, one of • Exercise the most important • Eat healthy things to do in your daily life is eat well,” says Dr. Jefferson City Magazine | 57

PROTECTION WHILE YOU’RE ON THE ROAD. Your dreams deserve more than an insurance card tucked in your glove box. That’s why I go beyond a piece of paper to give you smart, customized coverage and real peace of mind to pursue what matters most. Contact me today for a competitive quote.

Let’s talk today.

Tony Porter Agency, Inc.

American Star Excellence in Customer Experience 573-893-3088 | 2717 W Edgewood Dr Ste 101

Life

WELL ORGANIZED Imagine...custom closet and storage solutions that fit your life beautifully

Specializing in: Master Bedroom Closets, Pantries, Home Offices, Murphy Beds, Laundry Rooms, Mudrooms, Linen Closets, Craft Centers, Garages, and Much More.

TONY PORTER

AUSTIN LEUCKEL

Agent

Licensed Account Manager

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, American Standard Insurance Company of Ohio, American Standard Insurance Company of Wisconsin, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 The General®, 2636 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37214 ©2016 011765 – 4/16

5 Tips for Healthy Eyes Have a comprehensive eye exam. Wear protective eyewear. Be cool and wear your shades. Give your eyes a rest.

Columbia: (573) 474-1072 Jefferson City: (573) 659-9000 OrganizeThatSpace.com

Clean your hands and your contact lenses properly. Source: nei.nih.gov

58 | January/February 2018

573-636-2103 www.BurnsOptical.com

Echelmeyer. “Eat foods high in fiber, eat fruits and vegetables, and avoid a lot — not all — of red meat. Also, avoid tobacco. Tobacco increases all risks of colon cancer.” Another important aspect of stomach health is managing daily stressors and anxieties as much as possible. While it's impossible to completely avoid these problems, there is a big difference between normal stress and excessive stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, or nearly there, it’s important to take a few moments to unwind. Whether you're simply stepping outside for some fresh air or taking a half hour to watch an episode of your favorite show on Netflix, clearing your mind is also clearing your gut of the damaging effects of excess stress or anxiety.

SPINE “The spine is a big deal to people,” says Dr. Jeff Lehmen, a spine surgeon at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital. “This is simply because it affects our quality of life so much. We’ve all had knee pain, hip pain, and ankle pain, but I think when someone truly has neck or back pain, it can be very debilitating. If you don’t have your neck or your back, you can’t really do much.” With neck, back, and nerve pain being so common and incapacitating, Lehmen is excited about the new technology and minimally invasive techniques becoming increasingly available. “Now you’re able to offer people surgery where they’re not going to have a year recovery and be in a nursing home for three to four months like it used to be,” he says. “You can actually operate on someone in their mid- to late-80s and expect a good outcome.” It may or may not surprise you, but one thing Dr. Lehmen highly recommends for keeping your spine healthy is avoiding smoking. “I can look at an X-ray, look at [the patient’s] age, compare the two, and I can tell if they’ve smoked or not because everything degenerates much quicker,” he says. Something that gives doctors like Dr. Lehmen DR. LEHMEN’S TIPS: a lot of concern is “phone • Don’t smoke neck.” • Exercise (keep your “Everybody is in a core strong) forward — what we call • Watch your posture a positive sagittal — • Stretch often balance, so everybody is • Watch your weight forward these days,” says Dr. Lehmen. “That puts a

lot of stress on your neck and back.” An interesting issue spinal specialists have found is a correlation between tight hamstrings and back pain. Therefore, Dr. Lehmen recommends stretching, particularly your hamstrings, if you’re having mild back pain. Yoga is also great for relieving pain. “Flexibility is always your friend,” he says. As far as chiropractic care is concerned, Dr. Lehmen says, “I think it is fine.” He recommends seeing a specialist, though, if the pain continues. Chronic pain is almost always indicative of a deeper problem.

BONES “Orthopedic medicine’s purpose is to provide excellent care for any type of muscular, tendon, bone, or any other type of injury we see with athletes or the general population,” says Dr. Bradley Sloan, family and sports medicine physician with Jefferson City Medical Group. “From my perspective, as a non-operative provider of the orthopedic group, I’m big into the prevention of these types of injuries,” he continues. “In the Jefferson City community and the surrounding areas, we’re huge sports fans. So, we see a lot of the athletes in the area, and we talk about early prevention of injuries we see during their seasons.” What does this prevention look like? If you’re an athlete or are anticipating a very active period, prepare a few weeks early with exercise and stretching. For the general population, as well, always remember to eat and sleep well, and stay as active as you can. An object in motion stays in motion, right? The same is true for our bodies. The more stagnant we are, the more likely we are to injure ourselves when we have to be active. An important aspect of this is picking activities that are appropriately challenging — meaning don't push too hard. “We talk a lot about the different types of programs folks can get involved in in the area, from swimming to yoga and a lot of the nonweight-bearing stuff as we get older,” Sloan says. For athletes and DR. SLOAN’S TIPS: more active people, • Eat well Sloan has been working • Sleep well with new strides in • Stay active to your regenerative medicine ability level — a minimally invasive • Prepare well for and technologically strenuous activity advanced method of healing muscle, tendon, Jefferson City Magazine | 59

60 | January/February 2018

we use our own platelets to heal tendon issues like tennis elbow or plantar fasciitis,” he says. “Then we have umbilical cord stem cells, which we get from a lab in Utah. We can use these cells to repair almost any kind of bone, cartilage, or muscle injury. It’s pretty exciting.”

FEET Easily ignored but equally important to our overall health are our feet. Too often, people ignore foot pain, assuming it’s simply a part of life that will go away eventually. This is a major concern for Dr. Jonathon Strong with Capital Region Physicians Podiatry. “Our feet are our base, our mode of transportation,” he says. “People neglect them a lot, and, ultimately, people struggle with chronic pain, and they don’t have to. Foot pain is not normal. If you’re having pain, you need to seek treatment.” He continues: “When people develop a sudden onset of pain, swelling, or redness, these are the signs something is wrong. Those kinds of things can lead to delayed healing and can make them harder to fix.” Most people don’t go to podiatrists unless they already have a problem (for example, chronic pain, injury, diabetic ulcers, etc.), although preventative medicine does play a major role in podiatry. Podiatrists treat everything medical

Over 40 years of combined service. Top Agent for 10 years... We sell a home every 2 days!

and bone injuries — for the last 12 years. “I now do platelet therapy where

or surgical related to the foot and ankle, including skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and more. While everyone should keep an eye on their feet, it’s vital for people with

if they're not well controlled. “Nerve damage or decreased feeling in your feet can also be caused by vitamin deficiencies, a thyroid problem, or a pinched nerve in the lower back, among other less common problems,” Strong says. There are more obvious health issues to consider too. If you have a cut, blister, or other foot wound, immediately disinfect and cover the area, then see a doctor. “Of course, if you’ve got great blood supply and no other health conditions that you’re worried about, keeping it clean and covered until it heals is fine,” Strong adds. “If it’s not better in a week or two, or if it becomes red, swollen, or painful, see your physician. It’s a lot easier to take care of or treat something if you treat it sooner than later.”

DR. STRONG’S TIPS: • Check your feet everyday • Keep your feet clean • Wear supportive, properly fitted shoes • Moisturize • Stretch and exercise

joyce@joycebremer.com | 761-3418

diseases can hinder the healing processes and eventually cause nerve damage

JEFFERSON CITY

autoimmune diseases, like diabetes, to take extra precaution. Autoimmune

62 | January/February 2018

BUSINESS FEATURE

CREA TING CONNECTIONS Capital City Connections, a local networking group, discusses the importance of making community ties.

by E L I M A R C H B A N K S | p h o t o s b y K E I T H B O R G M E Y E R Jefferson City Magazine | 63

orking for yourself; everyone has thought about it. People like to romanticize the idea of working for yourself, being your own boss, setting your own hours, etc. Few people actually go through with it. Of those who actually go through with it, few experience success. Of those who experience success, few experience lasting success. Are the successful better than the unsuccessful? Are they smarter, luckier, tougher? According to some local entrepreneurs, letting other people help you and being willing to help them is a big part of “making it.” On Tuesdays in Jefferson City, a group of the successfully self-employed get together and

64 | January/February 2018

support one another in their respective business endeavors. This group started out with fewer than half a dozen members just a few years ago but has recently grown to more than 20 people with a wealth of collective knowledge for whatever you would like to find out about building your own business. “We can come in here and share information, share ideas, or share leads,” says Charlie Christiansen, a Shelter Insurance agent. In addition to sharing advice and helping to solve each other’s problems, the various types of businesses represented by the entrepreneurs in these weekly meetings can act as references for each other. A symbiotic environment exists

where all can build up their own potential customer bases while at the same time building up one another’s and discussing the best way to serve the public. “I’ve done a lot of different networking groups, I’ve done the advertising thing, and I don’t think anything has come close to the power of this group,” according to Laura Sigwerth, a certified health coach. She goes on to explain that she believes that sense of community and friendship within this group is what makes it such a beneficial organization for all involved. “You can’t go online or read a book that is going to be better than working with someone at the local level,” says Michael Baxa of the UPS

store in Jefferson City. “The support system this group offers has been helpful to me. Everybody in here is going to run into road blocks and someone else here has likely hit that same road block and can help you. That kind of stuff is invaluable.” The people who attend these meetings support each other as they navigate the hardships of self-employment. In a recent meeting of this group, the topic of “entrepreneurial wellness” was discussed. This can refer to many things. One of those things is the chance to hone your message. Kim Slaughter, co-owner and practice administrator at Riverbend Dentistry, explains that “this group is really good at helping you with your ‘elevator speech’ because that’s something that we practice every week — how to spit out your business in just about 30 seconds.” Reliability is another part of entrepreneurial wellness. Several in the group would agree that consistency has been an important part of their careers. “Consistency for any entrepreneur is the key,” says Nathan Hays of Jefferson City Autoplex. “Having people know they can count on you and being able to count on other people is the glue that holds this group together.” That glue has helped some members of this group transition from being part-time business owners to full-time business owners. The group makes sure that everyone knows “who does what” — the instant connections help members save time finding help, rather than trying to track people down on their own. Austin Craddock, owner of Bandana’s Bar-B-Q in Jefferson City, Sedalia, and Osage Beach, says: “Time is precious for entrepreneurs. . . . being able to make one phone call instead of six just to get to the

person who does this thing or that thing — this group right here helps a lot with that.” Speaking of time being precious, it’s important for entrepreneurs to find a balance so that they don’t fall victim to their own strong work ethic and risk burning out. When trying to take care of everyone else, entrepreneurs can feel guilty about making sure to take care of themselves so that they can continue to work. “As entrepreneurs, it’s really easy to step away from your desk and feel guilty,” says Missy Creed, of Dogwood Social, “and I’m working on not feeling guilty.” Sitting in this meeting, one can really gain insight into the motivations of successful business owners. One might be surprised that becoming wealthy isn’t one of those motivations. Justin Neihart, owner of United Landscape Design LLC, explains how, when he was growing up, “money never drove me . . . but opportunity did. The opportunity to help people.” Kurt Propst, a partner with Summit Wealth Strategies, would agree. “My mindset is about how I can help other people out and then worry about helping myself out later,” Propst says. While one might be tempted to think that people go into business themselves to capture as much of the almighty dollar as they can, the success of the individuals in this room is predicated upon a genuine care for both their customers and each other. Success follows that genuine care. Neihart talks about how he’s always ready to help entrepreneurs who are just starting out and is also willing to “take notes” from those who are more experienced than he is. With entrepreneurs this driven and selfless supporting and challenging each other, the entrepreneurial community of Jefferson City has a bright future to talk about.

Jefferson City Magazine | 65

BATH & BODY WORKS • BUCKLE • CAMELOT GIFTS • CAPITAL 8 THE ATRES • CAPITAL CAFE • CAPITAL CANDY • CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA • FOOD COURT • CHRISTOPHER & BANKS • CLAIRE’S • DILLARD’S • DOWNTOWN BOOK AND TOY • FUJI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR • GNC • GREAT AMERICAN COOK IES • H&R BLOCK • HARDEE’S • HIB BETT SPORTING GOODS • HIGH VOLT AGE ARCADE • HY-VEE • JCPENNEY • JOANN FABRIC & CRAFTS STORE • JUSTICE • KAY JEWELERS • KITCHEN COLLECTION • LIGHTNING MOBILE CELL PHONE REPAIR • MASTERCUTS • MODERN NAILS • NOVA BOUTIQUE PAYLESS SHOE SOURCE • PIZZA HUT • PRETZEL MAKER • ROSS DRESS FOR LESS • SEARS • SEARS OPTICAL • SE NIOR CENTER AT THE MALL • THE SHOE DEPARTMENT • SHOW ME GOLD AND SILVER • SLACKERS CD AND GAMES • STIR FRY 88 • SUBWAY • TACO DEPOT FOOD COURT • U.S. POST OFFICE •VICTORIA’S SECRET • WENDY’S • WILSON’S TOTAL FIT NESS • WOODCREST CHAPEL • XTREME TRENDZ • ZALES JEWELERS

SCOTT HAMBLIN Attorney At Law Divorce & Family Law State & Federal Criminal Defense

CITY’S J E F F E R S O N

1st

PLACE

2016

VOTED 2016 CITY’S BEST Lawyer

3600 Country Club Drive | JCMO (573) 893-5323 Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00am-9:00pm Sun: 11:00am-6:00pm

www.CapitalMall.com Like us on Facebook to keep up with the latest events, promotions and sales happening at Capital Mall.

66 | January/February 2018

312 E. Capitol Avenue | Jefferson City, MO 65102 Phone: (573) 635-7166 | (573) 821-4013 www.BrydonLaw.com | www.ScottHamblinLaw.com

r e t e C n i n W LeArA C TO

S A L E

F F O 70% E UP

SAV

ARE YOU A

VIP

What do VIPs get?

$3 Beers VIP 22oz Mug First Access to Special Events & Exclusive Beers 15% Off • Member’s Merchandise • Member’s Meals

$75

r for a yersahip e b m e m

He’s a VIP! CITY’S J E F F E R S O N

1st

PLACE

2016

Expect Compliments

636.4512 | www.saffees.com Downtown Jefferson City | Osage Beach |

You should be, too... Hours: Mon-Thur 11am-11pm Fri-Sat 11am-12am Sun 8am-8pm SUNDAY BREAKFAST Served from 8-11am

Jefferson City Magazine | 67

68 | January/February 2018

BUSINESS PROFILE

Not Your Typical Gym Studio573 flips your idea of working out on its head. by DA N I E L L E TOBA R | photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

Jefferson City Magazine | 69

70 | January/February 2018

BUSINESS PROFILE

ust walk through the doors at Studio573 Fitness and the realization that it’s anything but a traditional gym will immediately hit you. It’s not just that it’s not your normal gym or that it looks nothing like the movie theater that occupied the building years ago (although both of those things are true). It’s much more than that. It’s the atmosphere, the energy, the vibe. From the pretty, antique lockers to the loft-style industrial fans to the vintage signage and décor, this place has a certain something. From the moment you walk in, it makes you want to be there. To say the place is inviting is an understatement. Imagine a trendy, upscale shop that just so happens to have a smoothie bar, kids’ club, and, oh yeah, workout equipment. Even the locker rooms are inviting, with a little sitting area to relax pre- or post-workout. It’s not just the look that’s different. Let’s be clear. This is a studio, not a gym. When owner Erin Bidlack started Studio573, she made that a priority. The idea: a home for boutique fitness with always changing classes adapting to current trends. Instead of thinking of a traditional group class with an instructor at the front of the room, possibly on a stage, leading the entire class of individuals as a collective, think of group training. The fitness industry has evolved plenty over the past decade, from everyone having a personal trainer to this hybrid of the best parts of both group classes and personal training: the personalized attention you know and love from a personal trainer with the camaraderie and palpable energy of a group setting. The knowledgeable trainers at Studio573 are bouncing from one person to another pushing, encouraging, giving modifications if needed and, for lack of a better phrase, kicking your butt. This personalized instruction promotes bigger changes and better results as you’re pushed to work harder and faster every minute, every session. Bidlack, a Mid-Missouri native and MU grad, first encountered this studio style in St. Louis and California, where she lived for years with her family. That isn’t to say that the route to studio owner and trainer was always clear — Bidlack worked as an operations manager Jefferson City Magazine | 71

BUSINESS PROFILE

72 | January/February 2018

BUSINESS PROFILE

Jefferson City Magazine | 73

74 | January/February 2018

BUSINESS PROFILE

for Gold’s Gym in St. Louis for years, thinking she’d never be a trainer given the job’s typical odd hours and multiples classes per day. But the lack of these trendy fitness studios here in Jefferson City and the potential for one to succeed led Bidlack to open Studio573 this past June. She was bored with the same old classes and offerings. She wanted to improve a lack of excitement and variety in studio class offerings. Bidlack has taken workouts she loves and revamped them by adding in her own moves — “power moves” — to create a unique workout experience that’s constantly changing. This type of hybrid class is what you’ll find if you check out her “Dirty Dozen” workout, a kickboxing-inspired circuit class, or “Sweat573,” a circuit class based on the Excess Post-exercise Oxygen Consumption, or EPOC, training method designed to

maintain an optimal heart rate during training to maximize calories burned during and after the workout using Woodway treadmills, rowers, and more. Studio573 also has classes like barre, a ballet-inspired pilates class, and “HIIT the Barre,” an interval-training twist on a traditional barre class. There’s also “Flowyo,” a combination of pilates, yoga, and dance designed to sculpt. With unique and varying classes, the goal is to keep the motivation and excitement up. It’s easier to make fitness a habit when it’s fun and anything but monotonous. Don’t let these unfamiliar classes intimidate you though. Bidlack has a solution for that too. Most of the classes offered are “high music, low light.” It’s a simple change that makes a massive difference for confidence and focus during the training session, she says: “It’s not

intimidating and you’re not on display. You can focus on yourself.” Although Studio573 Fitness has been open for less than a year, there are already exciting new ideas in the works. Beginning in the new year, the studio will expand its offerings to include online training for those that can’t make it to their Capital Mall location on a regular basis. Bidlack says owning a studio has been a roller-coaster, something no one fully understands until they experience it themselves. Although the journey has had its highs and lows, she says her goals are constant: “keep growing and improving and changing, making exercise something that people aren’t dreading.” Like I said, just after walking through the doors, the studio’s appeal will hit you. Almost as hard as the soreness will hit you after a few gratifying sessions. Jefferson City Magazine | 75

tenth annual

sponsored by

76 | January/February 2018

City Magazine is celebrating 10 years of young leadership. Every year, we post the Ones to Watch nomination form on our website and wait to see who will be the honored few to be chosen to represent the young professionals in our community. Being a Ones to Watch recipient is about much more than just being skilled at your job — we all go to work every day to get our job done. Ones to Watch is about the young people who are going above and beyond their job and stepping into the community as a volunteer to help our people in need. They give of their time, their skills, and their love for this community day in and day out. Over the last 10 years, we have watched these young professionals grow into such leadership positions as mayor of Jefferson City, United Way Campaign Chair, JCPS Board member, business owner, executive director, and top performer in their field. Congratulations to all of you for your success and continued support of Jefferson City. We’re honored to present the 2018 Ones to Watch class. Out of 60 nominations, these 10 young leaders were chosen by a committee of past OTW recipients. This class is an impressive example of young professionals who have a heart to give back. Congratulations, again, and I can’t wait to see how you will be leading this community in 10 years! —Tami Turner

Jefferson City Magazine | 77

Congratulations,Kim! 2018 Ones to Watch Honoree

Kim impacts Jefferson City every day—from our kids’ school gala, to networking and Chamber groups, and a variety of special events throughout the year—she is an advocate for local businesses and nonprofits, all while supporting our family and business. Thank you to all who nominated her!

CITY’S CITY’S CITY’S J E F F E R S O N

J E F F E R S O N

1st

nd PLACE

PLACE

0 11 6 6 20

J E F F E R S O N

0 11 56 20

nd PLACE

0 11 4 6 20

Kim, you have become the face of our business in all that you do everyday. Both we and our community are fortunate to have you. Congrats with love, Tyler, your friends, & family

R i v e R b e n d d e n t i s t Ry . c o m

573. 635. 6080 | 913A L e s L i e b L v d | J e f f e R s o n c i t y

  

Amber Brondel Marketing and Communications Manager, United Way of Central Missouri by H EAT H E R F E E L E R photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

mber Brondel gives back to our community every single day. As the marketing and communications manager with the United Way of Central Missouri, she works closely with partner agencies, local businesses, and community members to help raise funds for our community’s toughest needs, including health care, education, and financial stability. It is a job she tackles daily with energy and enthusiasm. “I’m blessed that I get to see people giving back to the community every day in my job,” says Brondel. “Our United Way campaign is a testament to how giving our community is, but it’s more than just financial support. I get to see more than 400 volunteers advocate for our community and help others.” Giving back to the community is something Brondel also does in her spare time. She’s a member of Jefferson City Magazine’s Advisory Board and the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professional group, serving on the marketing committee and the board, and she also enjoys her time as one of the Blair Oaks Middle School cheer coaches. In addition, she’s gearing up to be a part of the Leadership Jefferson City Class for 2018. “It’s important for me to give back because it takes all of us working together to create change, and helping others live their best life is something our entire community benefits from,” Brondel says. It’s that passion for helping others that shines in her work with United Way. Ann Bax, president

of United Way CEMO, talks about Brondel’s vital role in community outreach work. “As our marketing and communications manager, Amber speaks on behalf of the United Way with power and conviction, and she understands she has the power to make a difference in our community through her work,” Bax writes. Brondel’s hope for the future is to continue to grow in her service to the community, including growing as an individual and citizen. She would like to enhance opportunities she’s already involved in to make even more of a difference. She’s also humbled and honored to be recognized as an up-and-coming leader in Jefferson City.

WHERE DO YOU MOST WANT TO TRAVEL? I’ve always wanted to go to Paris. I have been once, but it was just a layover, and I didn’t even get to step out of the airport. What a tease!

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • Blair Oaks Middle School Cheer coach • Young Professionals, member; marketing committee member • Jefferson City Magazine Advisory Board • Leadership Jefferson City Class of 2018 • Chamber of Commerce Membership Appreciation Campaign — Mission Possible Jefferson City Magazine | 79

Casey Marsch Interior Designer, Signature Homes and the Gary Sinise Foundation by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

“I FEEL LIKE I DON’T HAVE A JOB,” CASEY MARSCH SAYS. As someone who technically has two jobs, this is an incredible statement. Casey Marsch is the interior designer for Signature Homes, working to make people’s homes look exactly the way they want them to look. In addition, she works for the Gary Sinise Foundation, as do Signature Homes owner Scott Schaeperkoetter and others. Through this organization, Marsch and her co-workers build, design, and stage homes for our wounded soldiers and veterans across the country. Recently, Marsch traveled to Austin, Texas with her team to dedicate a home. “By the time they move in, we want them to only have to bring their clothes,” she says. “I don’t look at it like I’m going there to decorate or stage the house. I’m going there to make it a home.” Locally, Marsch and a few of her co-workers donated their time to help create the playroom at the HALO Home. She was so inspired by the organization that she built a presentation to help get grant money to create the main living room. The goal is “to use it as a community hangout for kids, to potentially have classes there for fun therapy, and use it for meetings,” says Marsch. “[Interior design] is what I’ve wanted to do since I was really little,” she says. “I love doing [volunteer] work better than anything because you go to the foundation stuff and realize how much these soldiers sacrificed for us. You come home and are so grateful because you have all 80 | January/February 2018

this freedom and never realized. Then you go to HALO and see how much you have that others

WHAT IS YOUR SPIRIT ANIMAL?

don’t always have. You realize how lucky you are.” Marsch is a prime example of how business and philanthropy mix well. Not only is giving back part of her job, she also uses that giving to inspire her to do more for the community she was raised in. Along with her work with the Gary Sinise Foundation and HALO, Marsch works diligently to give back to her former high school. “Casey has a passion for the Jefferson City Public Schools,” writes Schaeperkoetter. “She is a proud graduate of the class of 2004. Casey is involved in so many committees and activities that benefit the school. I think this says a lot about her ability to lead and show others that it’s important to be physically involved and invested in the matters that you feel most passionate about.”

A pug. My pug, Bodhi, is one of the greatest things that has ever happened to me, and he’s my boss. He 100 percent runs the show and gives great side-eye.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • JCHS FACS Curriculum Planning Committee • Jefferson City High School Booster Club Donation Tailgates • Member, Jay Pride Alive • Jefferson City High School Football Foundation Golf Tournament • Member, Lincoln Blue Tiger Athletic Club • United Way Power of the Purse Committee • HALO • Member, Parade of Homes Committee member, Home Builders Association

Cassandra Atchison Marketing Director for Modern Litho and Brown Printing by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D | photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

“TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN, MUCH IS EXPECTED.”

WHAT IS A FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY?

This is the driving force behind Cassandra Atchison’s professional and philanthropic endeavors. Talk to her for even a few moments and you’ll know her passion and excitement for growth in her career and volunteer work. Atchison was hired at Modern Litho and Brown Printing in 2009 as a customer service representative. Eventually she became a marketing representative, and she cultivated that role into what it is today. “Since becoming our marketing director, we have new branding and have held two large marketing events with national speakers in Jefferson City and St. Louis,” says Atchison’s employer, Darla Porter. “She also oversees our website and tracks all the analytics to report back to the ownership and to develop or change content as needed. Plus, she started a samples program for interested prospects and customers.” “Professionally, I’m focused on fostering the growth of the company and really trying to support the salespeople in any way I can through marketing materials, promotions, and involvement in both the local community and on a national level,” Atchison says. This passion for growth translated beautifully into a passion for giving. She began her work in the community by volunteering within Modern Litho and Brown Printing and dedicates much of her efforts to the United Way of Central Missouri, helping run their campaigns. “Cassandra is very enthusiastic as a team member and leader,” Porter says. “She’s an encourager and helps people on her team or committee be successful. She’s very upbeat, even in tough conversations, and takes responsibility for her own actions when things don’t go as planned." These traits are key to a successful community leader and a One to Watch. As Darla says: “She’s a servant leader. She perseveres. She is visionary.”

We had a tradition on our family farm of camping out with my uncles and cousins in a field on what we called lovingly “The Big Rock.” It was the perfect campsite, and we had a picturesque view of our farm.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • United Way; Dine United committee

• • • • •

chair, governing body, Pacesetter Campaign coordinator, Campaign Leadership team Boys and Girls Club; silent auction and table sales for Cork, Fork and Brew Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce; communications task force JC Start internship program Young Professional board member Leadership Jefferson City Class of 2013

Jefferson City Magazine | 81

Liz Albert, Graphic Artist

Happy New Year!

Honored to be a 2018 Ones to Watch Recipient

Missy Creed

THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING ME WITH YOUR BUSINESSES, ORGANIZATIONS AND COMMUNITY CAMPAIGNS.

#SmallTownBigHeart #JCMOshowsUP Cheers to 2018! XOXO

Sarah Bohl, Marketing Coordinator

ademan COMMUNICATIONS, LLC

Public Relations and Brand Development

(573) 230-5858 | Capitol Ave. | Jefferson City, MO

rebeccalrademan.com

DogwoodSocial.com

Proud member of: United Way of Central Missouri

jeffcityblog.com

IT’S ALL RIGHT HERE.

Assistance with: • Appointments • Errands • Homemaker Chores • Companionship • Meals • Nursing Services • Medication Reminders • Personal Care • Respite Care • Shopping

The Beffa Family “BEE”cause we care

For a free consultation call 573.634.8280 BeeAtHomeLLC.com

Erika Leonard Governmental Affairs Consultant with John Bardgett & Associates by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

or 12 years, Erika Leonard, through John Bardgett & Associates, has worked to ensure her clients throughout Missouri are heard by their government. Educating legislators about client needs, pushing to get those needs met, and even writing legislation for those needs are what she does day to day. This is what she loves, and this is what she’s good at. To top it all off, she uses her “free” time to give back to her community in other ways. “I really love spending time on my passions,” says Leonard. “I have a very spirited interest in the community I call home and the bedrock that keeps it strong, and that’s Jefferson City Public Schools.” Her dedication and love for our publicschool system is obvious to everyone that knows her. “Erika works diligently to support the Jefferson City public school system through her work with the JCPS Foundation and Jay Pride Alive organizations,” writes Kathi Harness. “She is dedicated to supporting the district by engaging alumni and connecting community leaders to recognize the importance of building and sustaining a strong education system for our community.” Leonard feels strongly about the role alumni play in Jefferson City. “Maintaining a partnership with the schools through volunteering time, financially supporting, and providing constructive guidance on what works for our community is important." Born and bred a Jefferson Citian, Leonard lights up when talking about our city; there’s a fire behind her eyes when she’s extolling

the value of going through the school system, working, giving back, and sending your children through that same system. “I love our beautiful small town,” says Leonard. “Being involved on community boards that have a direct impact on what our community stands for is rewarding. I love being a part of a team dedicated to making our town the best it can be.” “Erika has integrity, is trustworthy, and is highly respected in the community and among her peers,” continues Harness. “She is organized and driven in all of her pursuits. Her ability to strategize, set goals, and work to accomplish those goals makes her extremely successful in her professional career and with the charitable organizations she supports.” These qualities combine to create Leonard’s

need to be a difference maker. She wants to help and make a difference when problems occur in the community. She says, “I choose to live here, to stay here, and don’t envision myself ever moving away.”

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Pajamas and reality TV.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • Missouri Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, executive director • JCPS Foundation, secretary • Jay Pride Alive, vice president • Cedar Hill Elementary PTO • 2018 United Way CEMO Governing Board Jefferson City Magazine | 83

Erin Bidlack Owner, Studio 573 Fitness by H EAT H E R F E E L E R photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

s the owner of Studio 573 Fitness, Erin Bidlack cares deeply about the health and wellness of this community. It’s not only important in her personal life as a woman and a mother, but also as a local business owner trying to help others in their fitness journey. She’s passionate about supporting all things local to keep businesses thriving right here in her hometown. “What is the difference between shopping at a chain store versus shopping at a local small business?” Bidlack asks. “You’re keeping a business thriving in this community when you shop local. I get approached all the time to help local organizations as a business owner. It’s so important to help each other.” Bidlack has a found a unique way to do just that. On holidays, Bidlack invites people to come workout at Studio 573 for free and give a donation at the dollar amount of their choosing to a local charity. Fourth of July benefited a local animal shelter. A back-to-school bash in August gave much-needed funds to the Southwest Early Learning Center. In October, they partnered with the Yoga Studio to give back to the HALO Foundation. It’s a chance for people to walk through her studio door for the first time while helping people in need. Her dedication to helping people, including her drive and determination to help them reach their fitness goals, has been a difference maker for many. Her clients have also been a tremendous help to her, providing support and encouragement as she runs a business and raises her two young kids, ages 3 and 7, as a single parent while her husband is away for military training. “It’s hard being a business owner, but my clients are the best,” Bidlack says. “One even offered to babysit for me. That’s the great thing about 84 | January/February 2018

Jefferson City. There is so much community support here — everyone tries to help extra.” Bidlack continues to dream big for her business. Although she grew up here, she lived for several years in St. Louis and gained insight into unique studio experiences, such as pilates or barre, that she would love to see evolve in Jefferson City. She also wants to explore online training to make her work more affordable and accessible for everyone. It’s those big ideas that were significant notables in her multiple nominations for Ones to Watch. “Erin has a knack for thinking outside of the box,” writes Ashley Prenger. “She saw an untapped opportunity in this town to become a progressive fitness studio. After hard work and dedication, she has put her dream in motion and is excelling.” It is those kind words and support that keep Bidlack in forward motion, even on the most

exhausting days of being a full-time business owner and mother. She’s been touched by the generosity of this community. “I am really excited to be a One to Watch this year,” says Bidlack. “I’m the new person here and for people to connect with me, even taking the time to nominate me, is a big deal.”

WHAT IS YOUR SPIRIT ANIMAL? A bird. It would be pretty awesome to fly.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • • • • • • •

St. Peters Big Bucks People Helping Paws The Samaritan Center HALO American Red Cross American Heart Association Community Breast Care Project

Joe Lopez Community Asset Builders LLC by H EAT H E R F E E L E R photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

f you’re wondering why you’ve never heard of Community Asset Builders LLC, it’s because they’re the best kept secret in town. The company primarily helps nonprofit clients confidentially — yet confidently — fulfill their mission and reach their long-term goals. Joe Lopez is front and center helping them get there. Lopez, whose primary responsibilities are strategic growth and resource development for CAB, is a familiar face in Jefferson City. A hometowner, he and his wife, Lori, are active in the community with their four sons, ages 7 through 14. He can be found coaching sports through Jefferson City Parks and Recreation and the Parochial Athletic League or volunteering at one of the many local organization he supports, including HALO, the Helias Foundation, the Jefferson City Football Foundation, and St. Stanislaus Church and School. But it's his role at work that has garnered the most community support. “I wear a different hat almost every day,” Lopez says. “We get inside the heart of each nonprofit we serve. CAB exists at its core to fight for the underdog and the less fortunate. We break down those barriers to help nonprofits accomplish what people said they could never do.” CAB, led by Suzanne Alewine and Doris Boeckman, has been in existence for 16 years with a strong mission to work behind the scenes to allow nonprofits across the state reach their full potential. Lopez is also joined by a dedicated team of researchers, GIS specialists, fundraisers, and procurement specialists all working together to help others. “We call the work we do as a team the work of our hands,” Lopez says. “We just want to bless people. We are more than a company. We are a cause.”

His passion for the work and his ability to get things done in this community stood out on his Ones to Watch nomination. His friend and colleague Jason Jett pointed to his significant work with the Helias Foundation, including being a strong champion in raising millions for the capital campaign to build the new facilities at Helias Catholic High School. Humble in all things, Lopez focuses only on the future and the simple yet meaningful goals ahead for CAB. Expand and help more nonprofits. Stay innovative. Have fun. He hopes the hard work now will bear fruit for many years to come in his hometown. It’s why he wears so many hats and cares so much about the relationships he builds. They make a difference for the future. “We’ve been personally blessed in a lot of different ways, and we want to be a blessing to others,” Lopez says. “Most importantly, we

want to leave a meaningful legacy to benefit generations to come.”

WHERE DO YOU MOST WANT TO TRAVEL? Australia. I’m intrigued with the cultural immersion, adventurous spirit, customs, and way of life of the people. Both the remote beaches and the prehistoric rainforests sound exciting and captivating.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • • • • • • •

HALO Safetynet of Missouri Helias Catholic High School Saint Raymond’s Society St. Stanislaus School and Church Knights of Columbus Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Jefferson City Magazine | 85

Kim Slaughter Co-owner and Practice Administrator, Riverbend Dentistry by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

ow does a transplant make a community their home? If you ask Kim Slaughter, the answer is by becoming involved in the community. That’s exactly what she did when she moved to Jefferson City to open Riverbend Dentistry with her husband, Dr. Tyler Slaughter. Growing up in suburban Chicago, Slaughter and her sisters were recipients of the aid she tries to pay back every day. “We were the free- and reduced-lunch kids my whole life,” she says. “We got Christmas presents from the local elementary school. I heard once that people who are in some sort of underprivileged position are the ones who have the biggest hearts. You know what it’s like, that it could be you again. Having grown up in a less-thanwell-provided-for situation, I'm thankful for the positive role models I had and the help we received, so a lot of my volunteering and grant writing throughout the years has been focused on at-risk youth development and programs.” With a master’s degree in nonprofit management, Slaughter uses her past experiences, skills, and position as small business owner to her advantage and the advantage of the community. “I love being a connector,” says Slaughter, “especially from the nonprofit community to the business community. “I’m very passionate about being a small business owner in a place like Jefferson City. I always thought, before meeting Tyler, that I would go back home to Chicago. I am so thankful to be in a place that is a big small town where it’s easier to make a difference and have an impact.” Slaughter is a huge advocate of crosspromoting local businesses. She has a mantra 86 | January/February 2018

about dentistry, though it could be adapted for most industries, that “there’s enough teeth in Jefferson City for everyone.” She works hard to be a creative cheerleader for other small businesses through unique collaborations and an advocate for working closely with nonprofit organizations. “There are so many gems in Jeff City, and sharing the word about those places is great,” Slaughter says. Recently, Slaughter focused much of her volunteer efforts on the East End development. “I’m really proud of the Lafayette and Capitol Avenue enhancements,” she says. “We live and work East End.” Her passion for volunteering, and for Jefferson City, is obvious to everyone who has the chance to talk with her. “Kim’s ability to connect to people and make them feel important is one of the ways she has become a person to watch,” says Merideth Johnson. “If you ever go

to an event with Kim, she will make about 15 new friends and make sure you get to know them as well. She will also go to great lengths to support local business and promote Jefferson City as a whole. She is truly one to watch.”

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? Anthropologie, true crime podcasts, thrifting, and amazing lattes and americanos.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • Young Professionals, board of directors • 2018 Chamber of Commerce Ambassador • Member, volunteer, ROI sub-committee, Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce • Chair, St. Peter Interparish School Big Bucks Gala • Coordinator, Jefferson City Dental Society • Member, Capital City Connections

Logan Gratz Real Estate Agent and Auctioneer with Gratz Real Estate & Auctioneering by H EAT H E R F E E L E R photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

ogan Gratz never seems to run out of steam. At only 21 years old, he is a trusted real estate agent and auctioneer, a fulltime college student on the cusp of graduation, and an active member in numerous community organizations. He gives generously, both with his time and his talent, but it is his heart for helping others that shines the brightest. Gratz, who lost his mom to cancer when he was 10 years old, saw firsthand how a generous and loving community could change a life — it changed his drastically. It’s a legacy his family has continued to pay forward over the years. “I was raised to give back,” Gratz says. “There are circumstances that people come across in their lives where they need the extra help. I wouldn’t be here today without this community helping me through the good and the bad.” Gratz donates his time auctioneering local benefit auctions to raise money for kids and families dealing with life-threatening illnesses and insurmountable medical bills. Laura Kliethermes, who was one of several people that nominated Gratz for the Ones to Watch honor, shared how he auctioneered a benefit auction for her 7-year-old nephew, who was diagnosed with leukemia. Kliethermes wrote that Gratz showed tremendous grace, charisma, and compassion for their struggling family. “In many ways, Logan Gratz is my hero,” she writes. “I believe Logan feels a personal obligation to do what is in his power to combat the struggles of others due to his personal journey through life during his mother’s fight against cancer and after her passing.”

While Gratz continues to give generously through auctioneering, he also makes time to stay active in several professional organizations, such as Jefferson City Board of Realtors and Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals. He keeps pushing forward on his professional goals as well, including growing the real estate business for his grandparents, Bill and Nancy Gratz. “My biggest goal is to grow the real estate side of the business, not just auctioneering,” Logan says. “I want to build the knowledge of the areas we serve, including expanding our market share and customer base.” In May, Gratz will add another honor to his resume — college graduate. He will be graduating with a degree in business administration from Lincoln University. It’s one more step forward in his journey and a testament to his strong work ethic, something that stands out to Stephanie Johnson, who works at the Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City, where Gratz is a frequent volunteer.

Johnson says: “We aren’t born with a strong work ethic. It is a learned behavior. Values such as hard work, commitment, and loyalty are passed from generation to generation. The Gratz family has been a long-standing leader in Mid-Missouri, and Logan has stepped up to carry on that family tradition.”

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A WEEKEND AFTERNOON: A round of golf with friends and a little whisky.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • Benefit auctions for Samaritan Center, Boys and Girls Club, Tom Henke Benefit, West Side Business Association, Heart Ball, 4-H Steer and Swine Auction, 4-H Ham Breakfast Auction, Mizzou Tigers Quarterback Club Benefit, Blair Oaks Movie Theater Benefit, Blair Oaks Football Benefit, and St. Stanislaus Quilt Auction • Assisted at St. Stanislaus Technology Auction, Ducks Unlimited Benefit, and more. Jefferson City Magazine | 87

ConGratz! Logan Gratz is one of Jefferson City Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2018 ONES TO WATCH! Your family and the Gratz Real Estate team are so proud of your accomplishments at 21!

Gratz Real Estate & Auctioneering 5718 Wardsville Rd. Jefferson City, MO 65101 Phone: (573) 635-4168 www.callgratz.com

88 | January/February 2018

Missy Creed Owner, Dogwood Social by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

issy Creed is an idea machine. Her Jeff City-centric marketing company, Dogwood Social, mints new “likes” daily for a growing community of clients. Her community leadership forges new relationships among local professionals. This month, her newest venture, jeffcityblog.com, launches with a mission to inspire more residents to experience everything the city has to offer. This energy helps her bridge some business owners’ gap between “familiar” and “fan." While working part time at River City Florist, she recognized an opportunity. “Everything at River City Florist is so photogenic,” she says, “and they weren’t putting much of it out there. I said to Mike, ‘Why are you not Instagramming?’” His response? He simply didn’t have the time. Capitalizing on social media is a common challenge for small businesses. When you only have a few employees, it’s easy to put posts on a back burner. After test marketing for River City, Creed realized she could help more business owners in Jefferson City. “Local businesses and business owners are my people,” she says. “They’re go-getters, and I love that I get to be surrounded by them every day because of this job I’ve built.” Armed with a passion and love for local, she now helps potential customers learn their options when searching for where to shop for products or services. Working for herself has created an additional benefit to Jefferson City: the time to volunteer with United Way and its agencies. “I now have a flexible schedule and time to set my own priorities,” she says. “I haven’t always been in that position, but now I am, and it feels good to be able to help out.” “Missy is definitely on the fast track and already has made her positive mark on this

city,” writes United Way of Central Missouri president, Ann Bax. “She truly cares about this community, as evidenced by all her philanthropic activities in addition to owning her own business at her young age. I have talked to many other leaders of philanthropic organizations, and already Missy is known to be caring and kind and willing to share her social media expertise with those of us in the nonprofit world.” Early on, Creed branched into groups like Capital City Connections and Young Professionals. “I knew I wanted to be involved because when I came back to live here as an adult, I realized there are so many people I have yet to meet." Most recently, she has served as a founding organizer for 1 Million Cups, a networking group for entrepreneurs. Now, Creed is taking her work in the

community to the internet. Her new blog is dedicated to residents of Jefferson City, and will help be an independent voice for promoting the city’s businesses to visitors. “I’m looking forward to seeing what this will become. More than that, I’m excited for new collaborations and celebrating our city.”

WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING IF YOU WEREN’T IN YOUR CURRENT POSITION? I’d be an Amazon seller and/or a personal shopper and stylist.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • • • •

Young Professionals, marketing chair 1 Million Cups Jeff City, organizer Capital City Connections Marketing committee, United Way CEMO Jefferson City Magazine | 89

Rebecca Rademan Rademan Communications LLC by M E GA N W H I T E H EA D photos by K E I T H B ORG M E Y E R

ou’d be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t know Rebecca Rademan. The former editor of this magazine, Rademan really got to know JCMO through her work with City Magazine. She grew to love this city and the businesses, people, and organizations that make the community great. By getting to know Chris Holloway, former City Magazine photographer, and Tami Turner, she saw the city in a new light. “I watched Tami and the magazine,” Rademan says. “She and the Gibbs family were my first introduction into nonprofits and getting involved in the community. Our entire goal [for the magazine] became to uplift and showcase the best of Jeff City.” From there, she was able to use her magazine connections to begin freelancing digital services to local business and organizations, beginning with her alma mater, Lincoln University. “I never planned to go into business for myself,” says Rademan. “But I’ve always known that that’s something I would love to do.” Through word of mouth and repeat business, Rademan’s business has grown to a point she never imagined. Her business, a small public relations firm and marketing agency that protects and promotes local companies and brands, campaigns, and special programs so clients and employees can get involved in their communities, includes various methods of web and social media development. Rademan uses her “free” time to promote and support local businesses through volunteering. Today, that work is most heavily put into the nonprofits UCP Gibbs Center for Independence and Capitol City Cinema. “I founded the cinema in 2013 and Rebecca came on board in January of 90 | January/February 2018

2014,” writes Jami Wade. “She has been an instrumental component in growing the cinema and making sure it sustains itself well into the future. It’s my belief that with Rebecca involved, any project, business, or nonprofit will be in exceptional hands. She’s never proven me wrong.” Rademan is also passionate about the growth of art and entertainment in Jefferson City. "I want to foster a sense of community," she says. Through her professional and volunteer work, Rademan works tirelessly to bring the community together. Partnering business with nonprofits (and nonprofits with other nonprofits) is always her main goal. “Rebecca measures success by finding ways to get other business members to contribute and give back to Jefferson City,” writes Wade. “She spends a great deal of time collaborating with other community members in nonprofit and philanthropic work. Hers is a generous spirit that affects so many. She does it quietly and effectively, asking for no

accolades and no compensation. The truest spirit of philanthropy.”

WHAT IS YOUR SPIRIT ANIMAL? Wild mustang: All heart, strong-willed, fiercely loyal, thrive on deep connections, and love running with a herd, yet a nonconformist with a wild streak.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: • American Heart Association silent auction committee • President, Capitol City Cinema Board of Directors • Gibbs Center for Independence; Wing Ding Committee and 2018 Co-Chair • Missouri Contemporary Ballet Dancing with the Missouri Stars 2017 contestant • Boys and Girls Club Cork, Fork and Brews marketing volunteer • Jefferson City Animal Shelter: Yadi's Pittie Pals

From all of your co-workers at John Bardgett & Associates,

, s n o i t a l u congrat Erika!

ERIKA LEONARD 2018 ONES TO WATCH RECIPIENT

Jefferson City Magazine | 91

Boys and Girls Club of Jefferson City are proud to announce their first

Student of the Quarter Latrice W. is an 8th grader at Thomas Jefferson Middle School who moved to Jefferson City last summer. Since arriving here, she has been a model member of Boys & Girls Club. Her great attendance and the manner in which she treats others is outstanding. Latrice has made an immediate impact at the Club and everyone there is looking forward to seeing her continued growth and leadership.

Congratulations, Latrice! Once per school quarter, Central Bank and The Boys and Girls Club of Jefferson City recognize a student for academic success and outstanding character. Each winner receives a certificate of achievement and his or her likeness is placed in the framed Central Bank display located at the Boys and Girls Club lower level. Jefferson City Magazine, KRCG TV, and Cumulus Radio provide media coverage of each winner in order to highlight this student, while creating awareness of the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continuing mission to make our community even stronger.

CITY CHARACTER

Transforming through Transition

The HALO Home provides a safe haven for our most vulnerable neighbors. by L AU R E N SA B L E F R E I M A N | photos by A N T HON Y J I NS ON

n January 2017, the HALO Jefferson City Home opened its doors to at-risk or homeless teenage girls and their babies in Jefferson City. The building formerly known as the Rickman Center is now a sanctuary for some of Jefferson City’s most vulnerable young women between the ages of 16 and 21 — a safe haven where they can learn life skills, harness their leadership abilities, heal from past trauma, and set goals for a bright future. The HALO Home is the new site of HALO’s

Transitional Living Program, which has provided safe housing to 36 homeless teens and their babies since launching in 2014. Under the caring watch of two on-site house moms, residents of the HALO Home are surrounded by support. They are frequently reminded that the things that have happened to them in their past are not their fault. They are required to be a full-time student or working, but the home’s partnerships with other organizations ensures that residents

leave the two-year program prepared for an independent future. From changing sheets on a bed to meal preparation to applying for a job, the HALO Home focuses on developing strong, confident women in a safe, warm, and supportive environment. “HALO is heavy on partnerships,” says Rebecca Welsh, HALO’s founder. “We may not be the expert in a certain area, like child care, but we partner with agencies who are. If we didn’t have the partnerships, we couldn’t do

Nevaeh Maltbia, Desiree Price, and Brielle Maltbia

“Since I’ve moved into HALO, I’ve had more support, freedom, and ability to make my own choices than I have ever had before. I’ve been able to grow as a person and be independent. I’ve found a home here, and a family too.” —C Jefferson City Magazine | 93

CITY CHARACTER

what we do ourselves. There should be no ego in nonprofit and no barriers in partnerships. It’s one of those things that is essential to being an efficient organization and having the best outcomes for the youth.” When a 17-year old, pregnant with twins, recently showed up at the HALO Home and

knocked on the door, Crystal Burgan, HALO’s Jefferson City director, says they were able to move her right in. “She had nowhere else to turn, she had nowhere else to go,” Burgan says. “She had two bags of her belongings with her. One was a trash bag and one was a laundry basket. She

had been sleeping on couches.” Within one week, HALO’s team had assessed their new resident’s needs and, with the help of the community, harnessed the things she needed to welcome two babies to the world. “Our community has been generous enough to bring her in, shower her with love, have a baby shower for her and get her set so she doesn’t have to worry,” Burgan says. “We had two car seats donated, got her the medical attention she needed, took her grocery shopping, and got her in touch with services she is eligible for, like WIC. She doesn’t have to worry about what she shouldn’t have to worry about as a kid. We help take those worries away so she can focus on the things she needs to focus on.” According to Welsh, news of the HALO Home is slowly spreading, and the HALO team is continuing outreach to social workers at hospitals and schools and those in touch with homeless youth in Jefferson City and surrounding areas. In addition to the two onsite house moms, the home has one additional full-time staff member, part-time staffers, and a female overnight security guard — all there to provide support and a feeling of safety to residents. A robust and dedicated team of volunteers also provides support to the residents. Welsh says the HALO Home already has success stories, as several residents are currently working and supporting themselves. Feedback from residents includes sentiments like “I can’t thank [HALO] enough for everything you’ve done for me and my family. I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for you,” and “I always feel welcome and know I can ask HALO for help if I need it.” In an effort to honor the girls and their stories and raise additional funds for the HALO Home, the home will host the HALO Home Auction on Friday, March 2.

“The HALO Home provided a safe and private place for me when I had nowhere else. They also made me very comfortable and gave me the support I needed when it was time for me to have my baby. The HALO family, on top of having a place for me and my baby to live, also supplies useful information to help us succeed in the real world and be able to live on our own. I’m so grateful to be a part of such an empowering program and so blessed to be able to call them my family.” —L 94 | January/February 2018

CITY CHARACTER

“This year, our goal is to raise $100,000 at the event, but more than anything, the goal is to honor the girls and allow them a place to share their stories if they want to,” Welsh says. “It’s hard to be in their position. We want them to look at the home as a leadership program instead of as a homeless shelter.” The tented event will include cocktails, a tour of the home, and a silent auction complete with trips, entertainment packages, and more, with the money raised going to cover the basic needs of the home. Welsh says that, among fundraisers, the HALO Home Auction is special: inspiring and a lot of fun. “We will honor the girls for all the hard work they’re doing. It is a super powerful night,” Welsh says. “Last year there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. It is a lot of fun and it’s a beautiful night.”

“HALO has had a big impact on me. It gave me a place to live, and I have a great support system. HALO is my second family. Before I came to HALO, I was a high school dropout. To be honest, if it wasn’t for HALO, I would have never gone back to school.” —M Jefferson City Magazine | 95

96 | January/February 2018

Life Back to Normal Mold Remediation Upholstery Cleaning Dehumidification Water Damage Mitigation Carpet Cleaning Emergency Restoration Restore-It-Restoration.com

Lonnie Beauchamp, owner

24 Hour Emergency Services: 573-632-9283

TRUTH 91 Americans die from opioid overdose every single day. Find out how to help us combat this www.jccdfy.org

Jefferson City Magazine | 97

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Go Red for Women

vironment. The American Heart Association gives us tools and information to help create that environment. “Central Bank has over 280 female employees

The heart health campaign is raising its community proﬁle.

in our local facilities,” Nale continues. “One in

by ARI EL FORRE ST

Given those statistics, approximately 93 of our

every three women will suffer from heart disease. female employees will suffer from heart disease.

ast February, the Missouri affiliate of

here in our community passed a regulation

That is an astounding number. Central Bank

the American Heart Association began

that all graduating seniors starting this year

wants to take a proactive stand in helping to fight

a new campaign – Go Red for Women.

are required to learn hands-only CPR — that

this preventable disease.”

With a goal of raising awareness and funds for

means 60,000 new students are now lifesav-

Along with this education, Central Bank

women’s heart health issues, the group created

ers in our state. Every time we see a heart at-

found another benefit to partnering with AHA.

several events to spread the message.

tack survivor, someone that has a pacemaker,

“Our local nonprofits depend and rely on our

someone that is on blood pressure medicine

ment is to empower and inspire women to not

community and businesses,” says Nale. “Without

or cholesterol medicine, or a child that has

only take care of ourselves but to have the knowl-

these partnerships, they would suffer tremen-

had open heart surgery, that’s the American

edge we need to help care for our children, our

dously — not just with the dollars we help raise

Heart Association dollars at work.”

and donate, but with the time our employees and

“The purpose of the Go Red for Women move-

spouses, and our loved ones,” says Becki Collier, corporate events director for AHA Missouri.

THE IMPACT “The first year netted $125,000,” Collier says. “Our goal was $100,000. What was unique about this campaign was that it was more than just a campaign: it was a cause, it was a mission, and it was a movement.”

Angela Nale, public relations coordinator at Central Bank, witnessed firsthand, through the bank’s partnership with the AHA, the

their families put in volunteering. It’s an amazing partnership that helps everyone involved.” Get out your calendars now and plan to be

impact the program can have. “Collaborating

at Capitol Plaza for this year’s luncheon on

with Go Red for Women has made me, as a

September 14. Planning for other Go Red for

woman, take note of some scary statistics,”

Women events is already in the works, so dust

she says. “Central Bank has always consid-

off your red clothes and keep an eye on AHA

ered it important to create a healthy work en-

Missouri’s Facebook page or website, heart.org.

Beginning with National Go Red Day last February, over the campaign, AHA delivered 100 free heart health information kits to local businesses, worked with Lincoln University and Capital Region to do a hands-only CPR training event, and partnered with SSM Health and the YMCA to provide fitness classes hosted by Dr. Allyson Walker. In May, AHA hosted a breakfast for executives to educate local business leaders on how to make the community healthier. They hosted the Red Dress River Run to encourage families to have fun with fitness. The Go Red for Women Luncheon (which included the Genesis Diva Lounge, “Purse-onality” auction, and speeches from Rebecca Welsh and Teri Ackerson) gathered nearly 500 men and women for education and fundraising. “In the last 10 years, we’ve raised more than three million dollars in our community,” says Collier. “We see the AHA’s work in our everyday lives. In 2016, the legislature right 98 | January/February 2018

Angela Nale and Becca Varner at Go Red for Women | Photo Provided by Becki Collier

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

2018 Heart Child by ME GA N WH ITE H EA D Harper Hummel is one tough kid. Her mom’s pregnancy was totally normal, but when Harper was born, the doctors knew something was wrong. Harper’s heart wasn’t functioning properly. After various tests, she was found to have scimitar syndrome, in which her right pulmonary veins return oxygenated blood to the right vena cava rather than the left atrium, leading to some of the following issues:  Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connections: some of her veins branch off and connect where they shouldn’t.  Hypoplastic right lung: her right lung is incomplete or underdeveloped (her doctors say she has one and a half lungs).  Horseshoe lung: the lower lobe of her right lung is tucked behind her heart and is more centered than usual.  Atrial septal defect: there is an opening between the two atria of her heart.  Pulmonary hypertension: there is increased pressure throughout her pulmonary circulation.  Aortic coarctation: if you think of the aorta as a hose, Harper’s is basically kinked, making it harder to for her blood to leave her heart. Now about to turn 5 on January 11, most of Harper’s health issues have been resolved. “Her biggest issue now is pulmonary hypertension,” says Jessica Hummel, Harper’s mom. “The research the American Heart Association continues to do on all cardiac issues is the whole reason we’re in support of them. We never expected any of this. You never know when you’re going to need an organization like this. The research and support are incredible.”

Photo by Jennifer Sandbothe Jefferson City Magazine | 99

Wedding The Date The Location The Dress 100 | January/February 2018

STYLE

Where to Wed Janice Houser, of U. S. Rents-It, talks local wedding venues. by A BIGA I L JON E S | photo by H EAT H E R LY N N PHOTO G R A PH Y

or many brides, the biggest project on the list of “wedding to-dos” is planning the reception. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when trying to figure out the big questions of who, where, when, how, and, most importantly, “What will it look like?” Janice Houser, wedding decorator extraordinaire at U.S. Rents-It, is all too familiar with helping brides calm down from a Pinterest panic. With all the different styles and aesthetics out there, many brides have trouble narrowing down what exactly they want their reception to look like. “When a bride comes to me, I encourage her to start with the top five non-negotiables of what she needs to have at the reception, then build your budget from there,” Houser says. “‘What is going to make that day special for you?’ U.S. Rents-It is here to help turn your vision into reality. After we figure that out, the rest falls into place.” Houser describes wedding decorating as a form of artistry — all the pieces must work together to form one coherent work. After brides decide on what theme they want for the celebration, the next important step is selecting the right canvas, so to speak, to ensure “that vision becomes a reality,” Houser says. There are several notable wedding venues in Jefferson City, each outfitted with its own set of characteristics and capabilities. With the right decoration and insights, any venue could be used as a canvas to create the look the bride is looking for; however, some have strengths that could fit to a certain theme better than others. For brides seeking to host a reception in Jefferson City, here are some stops to be made.

“Capital Plaza has that big city feel,” Hauser says. “From the atrium to the ballroom, the bride can create a spectacular reception. You can do everything from using tall, grandeur centerpieces with a formal design to a wedding with more simplistic design. This venue offers the bride a more a traditional look.”

THE MILLBOTTOM The Millbottom is a renovated power plant that offers the perfect location for brides to host a memorable reception. With indoor seating that for 300 and outdoor seating for even more guest space, this is the ideal spot for warm weather weddings. “The Millbottom is definitely what I would term as your perfect ‘blank canvas’ venue,” Houser says. “You can either play to a more industrial look, shabby chic, or go for a glitzy aesthetic. It’s really up to the bride’s imagination.” The venue is fitted with rustic brick and perfect coloring to play off of looks from vintage to BoHo.

CAPITOL PLAZA HOTEL Capitol Plaza, located a stone’s throw from the Missouri State Capitol, is an enticing venue located in downtown Jefferson City. With a ballroom that can seat 800 and hotel rooms at the ready, this is definitely a venue to consider.

The Millbottom

THE COLONEL BOLTON HOME The Colonel Bolton Home feels as though it’s straight out of a Jane Austen novel. The antebellum house has the capability to seat 200 people as well as suites for the wedding party to get ready. Houser describes this venue as the perfect place for brides looking to do a country-style wedding. “The Bolton Home is a charming and quaint historical home,” she says. “It’s perfect for a wedding that could be very romantic or very casual. The venue definitely makes a good fit for a rustic, Victorian, or shabby chic wedding.” If you’re looking for a more intimate venue, this historic house is the perfect “something old” to add to your wedding.

CANTERBURY HILL WINERY Canterbury Hill is another prime choice for a wedding in the warm season because of its patio with a view, as well as extra space for guests to roam. The venue offers the option of renting select rooms or the whole space. Houser points out that this venue would be an excellent spot for brides wishing to use the “enchanted garden” theme, a decoration aesthetic that has become popular in recent years. “The Canterbury Hill Winery and Restaurant allows brides to really work with the natural feel of the outdoors,” Hauser says. “The winery creates the perfect venue to pull in a cozy, intimate feel by using the winery and scenery to help with the overall wedding aesthetic. The look that works well with this venue is enchanted garden, romantic, and old-world.” No matter which Jeff City venue a couple selects, Houser stands ready to help them make their vision a reality. “My biggest advice to couples is don’t sweat the small stuff,” she says. “The bride and groom will set the tone for the whole day. Just be happy and enjoy your special occasion! At the end, your guests will drive home and talk about what a special time they had.” Jefferson City Magazine | 101

STYLE

Modernizing Tradition

While the industry may change, the tradition of purchasing engagement rings remains. by A BIGA I L JON E S | photos provided by S Y LV I E C OL L E C T ION

echnology has changed life as we know it in virtually every way — some more obvious than others. Telecommunication, cars, computers, and 24/7 access to the internet are some of the more brazen ways we see the effect it has had on our lives. But for some industries, the process has been more nuanced, the age of smart phones and social media bleeding slower into businesses that hold traditional values at their core. Todd Vandelicht, Vandelicht Jewelry, and Mary Kay Kemper, The Blue Diamond, can attest to this. At face value, the storefronts of Vandelicht Jewelry and The Blue Diamond haven’t changed since they opened in ’90s, The Blue Diamond in 1990 and Vandelicht just two years later. Couples still walk in to browse glass cases filled with ring options, all polished and just asking to be tried on. One might think that with the advances in online shopping, more couples would turn to the wider span of options on the internet, but as Vandelicht points out, “Ultimately, they still want to feel it, touch it, and try it on.” Sentiment and traditional values have protected the storefronts of these beloved jewelers, but technology has still been a major game changer for the business. When Vandelicht first started Vandelicht Jewelry, every ring would be created with a hand-carved mold with molten metals poured in, often with a risk that the ring might crack and have to be poured again. Now, with computer-aided design systems being at the core of the design process, it’s down to a science. “It’s completely changed the industry and made almost anything possible,” Vandelicht says. “Just like technology advances within the medical field, jewelry design has evolved along with the times.” With accessibility to 3-D design software, Kempker is able to design all of her customers’ pieces in-house. “We start from square one,” she says. “A couple will usually bring in a picture from Pinterest and we’ll

102 | January/February 2018

come up with a similar design in our 3-D CAD system. I’ll then have our 3-D printer print off a wax mold to show the couple. If they like it, we’ll then cast it using the wax mold, which is referred to as the ‘lost wax process.’ It’s amazing how precise the design can be.” The capabilities of jewelry design have come incredibly far. Kempker can remember when she installed her first CAD system in 2001. “It was just a 1-D program that would allow us to draw up a design to help the customer visualize it. We still had to hand carve the wax. Of course, the same software company then came out with the 3-D version. But now the newest thing is being able to 3-D print a piece just off a picture. It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come.” Shari Lukacs, the certified gemologist at Vandelicht Jewelers, has seen the effects technology has had on the stylistic and retail side of the business. “With the internet and Pinterest as resources, it has really helped brides narrow down styles that really match her,” she says. Through the constant access that customers have via social media, they can see what’s popular and who’s wearing what. This is a large determiner for what sells. “Millennials pay attention to what celebrities are wearing,” Lukacs says. “I think Princess Kate’s wedding ring is a prime example for why millennials are starting to look for diamond alternatives." Stylistically, yellow gold and large stones were the popular style in the ’90s, but currently, vintage and delicate rings with round-cut stones have become the new standard. But fashion tends to recycle its fads. “White gold and silver are the more common metals,” Lukacs says. “Though with yellow gold becoming a more popular look in casual jewelry, we may see a resurgence of that in wedding rings.” Though the internet and technology has changed the wedding ring business, the same goal remains: to outfit each couple with the band that is the perfect symbol of their love.

On your day, let us bring the cake. Visit your Hy-Vee bakery for more information on custom wedding cake design.

VOTED JEFFERSON CITY’S #1 GROCERY STORE

3721 W. TRUMAN BLVD. • JEFFERSON CITY, MO • 573-893-2505

104 | January/February 2018

Turning your Vision into Reality

CALL

Janice TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT | 573.635.4529

RENTS-IT PARTY CENTER

1513 Industrial Dr., Jefferson City | www.USRentsIt.com

Where Happily Ever After Begins Located in the heart of downtown Jefferson City. The historic building features original metal beams, exposed brick, soaring ceilings, spectacular views of the Capitol, fascinating history, and the capability for indoor/ outdoor events.

Margaret Oberkrom Assistant Manager

Call (573) 690-6400 or (573) 690-1825 for availability, pricing and tours. MILLBOTTOM.COM | JCMILLBOTTOM@GMAIL.COM |

| 400 W. MAIN STREET, JEFFERSON CITY Jefferson City Magazine | 105

We’re Jefferson City’s most sophisticated wedding venue for the reception of your dreams. • Largest ballroom in Jefferson City • Guest room accommodations

• Customized menu options

• Honeymoon suite packages

• Rehearsal dinners

• Butler style hors d’oeuvres service

Sales office: (573) 638-2310 or Denise.smith@atriumhospitality.com

Capitol Plaza Hotel

415 W McCarty St Jefferson City MO 65101 CapitolPlazaJeffersonCity.com

573-634-7267 236 E. High St., Jefferson City, MO www.SamuelsTuxedos.com

Like us on Facebook!

Five-Year Winner 2

0 1 0

1 2 0

tuxedos STARTING AT $89.95

106 | January/February 2018

M | T | TH | F ▪ 9:00 - 5:30 pm

WED ▪ 9-7 pm

SAT ▪ 9-4 pm

Traditional Food with a Contemporary Twist Your Taste. Your Vision. Your Day.

New!

EVENT CENTER Coming June 2018! Seating up to 350 Located in California, MO

Coming ! 8 1 0 2 June

573-353-1077

www.SweetChipotleCatering.com

Jefferson City Magazine | 107

For that special day remember... over

50 YEARS

Experience designing wedding cakes

$20 OFF

3 tier or larger wedding cake Expires 12/31/18

See Us For All Special Occasion Cakes!

(573) 634-2520 1904 Southwest Blvd.

@jcitymag #jcitymag #likeus #followus #subscribe

vol.

43 A Business Times Company Publication

Missy Creed

DOGWOOD SOCIAL

108 | January/February 2018

573-636-1060 223 East High Street www.AnaMariesBridal.com

A Unique Gathering Place on the Osage River Bluff

Bed & Breakfast

Event Hall

Weddings

Meetings

(573) 496-3069 | 9125 Winkelmann Platz | Jefferson City | TheColonelBoltonHome.com

HE WANTS YOU TO ASK...

Vandelicht Jewelry

3702 W. Truman Blvd., Ste. 209 • Jefferson City • 573-635-4884 • Monday–Friday 10–6 • Saturday 10–2

Jefferson City Magazine | 109

THANK YOU to our loyal customers for your continued support!

congratulates

ERIN B IDL AC K as a 2018 Ones to Watch recipient!

Serving Jefferson city since 2009

(573) 415-1897 1920 Jefferson St. | JCMO

We are proud of the hard work you put into our community and the hard work you put into making your clients healthy!

PAIN RELIEF

VS.

CHOOSE THE HEALTHIER WAY TO MANAGE PAIN

#ChoosePT OutboundRehab.com

Studio573 Fitness (573) 415-8685 info@studio573fitness.com 3600 Country Club Dr #530A Jefferson City, Missouri, MO 65109

(573) 681-0447 1739 Elm Court | Suite 205/206 Jefferson City, MO CITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S J E F F E R S O N

1st

PLACE

2016

110 | January/February 2018

GOURMET

Prepped for

Success Healthy eating has never been easier thanks to Love 2 Nourish.

by M E G A N W H I T E H E A D photos by K E I T H B O R G M E Y E R Jefferson City Magazine | 111

112 | January/February 2018

GOURMET n increasingly popular practice in healthy lifestyles is meal prepping. Being able to plan and create a week’s worth of meals with purposeful and controlled ingredients is an easy and efficient way to feed you and your family well. And time management seems to be the biggest draw. However, for the busiest of us (or those who don’t trust their cooking abilities), this practice isn’t always the best answer. Fortunately, there’s a solution quickly becoming more available. Restaurants are popping up across the country providing pre-planned meals in-house or online. For over two years, Laurel Dunwoody has provided Mid-Missouri with wholesome pre-planned meals online through her business, Love 2 Nourish. In April of 2017, she, in collaboration with Cori Busby, of MO Juice, opened a storefront in downtown Jefferson City. “This is really popular on the coasts,” says Dunwoody. “My daughter lives in Philadelphia, she’s a registered dietitian, and she’s helped me with menus and different things like that. She’s the reason I did this. She gave me the idea, and honestly, I didn’t get it at first until I went out there to visit her. I saw it in action and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, yes!’” With the support of Busby and their regular customers, the storefront became a reality. The “grab and go” aspect of meal prepping seemed like the next logical step (don’t worry, you can still order online!). This past summer, Dunwoody implemented “Real Plate Thursdays” for customers to build their own healthy lunches. This went over so well, customers would show up on other days of the week hoping to grab lunch. “I wanted to do what I call ‘live lunches,’” Dunwoody says. “With this beautiful space, I wanted to utilize it and have people come in and eat.” In September, Love 2 Nourish extended their “live lunches” to Tuesday through Thursday with a varying menu with natural, gluten-free choices. “I wanted to make a place for lunch that didn’t make people feel heavy and lethargic afterward, was healthy and affordable, and introduced them to lunches made with real ingredients,” says Dunwoody. “Nothing is processed.” Dunwoody is fighting the good fight against the idea that healthy food is bland. “I want to let people know that you can eat real food that tastes good, that you want more of,” she says. “I want to get rid of the stigma that healthy food is gross. Healthy food is delicious.” Thanks to Laurel and Cori, it’s never been easier to find lighter, better-for-you options on the go. Visit love2nourish.com or call 573-635-5475 to order natural, gluten free meals to go, or stop by 202 E. High St. for a delicious breakfast or lunch in a beautiful location.

Jefferson City Magazine | 113

GOURMET

114 | January/February 2018

GOURMET

Korean Turkey

and “Rice” Bowl Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 to 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar ¼ cup liquid aminos (a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce) 2 teaspoons sesame oil ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 cups hot riced cauliflower 2 cups slaw mix tossed with 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish Spinach

Instructions In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey and garlic, breaking it into crumbles over medium heat until no longer pink. In a small bowl, whisk brown sugar, liquid aminos, sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, and pepper. Pour over the ground turkey and let simmer for another minute or two. In a bowl, layer fresh spinach, hot riced cauliflower, slaw mix, and ground turkey. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Jefferson City Magazine | 115

GOURMET

116 | January/February 2018

Open Faced

Breakfast Sandwich Ingredients One slice bread of choice (English muffin, toast…we used gluten free honey bread made in-house) ¼ pound protein (we used pulled pork) ½ sliced avocado ½ sliced tomato 1 poached or over-easy egg

Instructions Toast bread and top with sliced tomato and avocado. Pile on warm protein of choice and top with a poached or over-easy fried egg. Cut into the egg and let the yolk drip over the sandwich.

PLAC

Voted BEST Interior Designer

INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTING PAINT • FLOORING • LIGHTING FIXTURES • FURNITURE ACCESSORIES • DESIGN IDEAS

TINA DAVIS 573.821.6814

Jefferson City Magazine | 117

INTERESTS

Essentials with Syd

How essential oils make your life happier, healthier, and cleaner.

by SY DN E Y T U R N E R

re you looking to revitalize your health and wellness in the new year? Are you interested in being the best smelling person in the room? How about having the warmest, most welcoming home on the block? Look no further than essential oils. Essential oils have supported me through the ups and downs of daily life since I was in seventh grade; I’m now 27 years old. How many things can you count in your life that have supported you for that long? What began with one little bottle has grown into something much bigger, and now I use Young Living Essential Oils in every aspect of my life. Interested? Well let’s start with the facts. Essential oils are highly concentrated and more powerful forms of your favorite flowers and herbs, but not all essential oils are created equal. Though many claim to be “pure,” most contain synthetic materials that can be harmful to your health. FDA labeling standards only require a product to be five percent of the pure ingredient for it to be labeled 100 percent “pure” and “natural.” Shocking, right? By contrast, Young Living’s oils are 100 percent pure (really), right down to any carrier oils included in some blends, which are always disclosed on the label. Many people are familiar with the use of essential oils for their smell, but there’s so much more that you can get out of them. You can use essential oils for health and wellness, aromatherapy, cleaning, washing produce, cooking, diffusing, DIY personal care products, skin cleaning, animal care . . . the list is endless! But let’s start with the top three uses: • Aromatic: Inhale the aroma directly from the bottle or use a cool mist diffuser to diffuse. • Topical: Apply directly to the skin, often with a carrier oil such as coconut oil. • Dietary: Swallow one to two drops; mix with liquids such as water, juice, or plant-based milk; place in a capsule and take orally. When you diffuse oils into the air they oxygenate the air, helping you maximize their beneficial properties. During seasonal changes, my favorite oils to diffuse are equal parts peppermint, lemon, and lavender. The lavender supports a healthy nervous system, the peppermint awakens energy, and the lemon brings balance and immune support. Through their effects combined, they make my day! My favorite diffuser runs for eight hours, and that whole time I’m getting the benefit of my 118 | January/February 2018

INTERESTS favorite oils, and I don’t have to think about it. I even have a small USB diffuser I run at my desk while I’m at work. A question I get a lot is “Which oils are OK to ingest, and how do I know?” With Young Living, it’s simple. If an oil has a white “Vitality” label, then it’s safe for consumption. They’re the only company who has permission from the FDA to label our oils for dietary consumption. Flavoring your food with essential oils may seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. They’re very versatile, but they’re also very potent — a little goes a long way. Simply use Vitality essential oils in place of or combined with spices you already have in your kitchen. (I keep mine in the same place for easy access.) Some of my favorite Vitality oils are thieves and lavender. I add one drop of Thieves Vitality to my chai tea for an extra cinnamon-y boost to my healthy immune system, and I add one drop of Lavender Vitality to chamomile tea to help me relax before bed. I’m also a big fan of adding a toothpick of Black Pepper and Basil Vitality to a pot of chili to enhance the flavor. Whichever way you choose to use them, I find the best way to begin is to incorporate them into your preexisting daily routines. Need to relax? Roll some Stress Away on the back of your neck. After a workout, apply one to two drops of PanAway where your body brings you heat. Worried about how you’ll feel after a heavy meal? Take one to two drops of DiGize Vitality in a capsule before or after to support a healthy digestive system. Need to drink more water? Add a drop of Lemon Vitality to give your drink more flavor and lift your spirits. Apply a few drops of frankincense to your face for a brightened and more vibrant complexion —it also serves your nervous system. I fell in love with Young Living Essential Oils because they brought energy, vitality, and new attention to my life. Bring essential oils into your home and, before you know it, you’ll be on your way to a happier, healthier, cleaner life for you and your family. Who doesn’t want that? To learn more, visit SeadToSeal.com, theonthesunnysideblog.blogspot.com, or Instagram at @EssentialsWithSyd.

Essential oils have supported me since I was in seventh grade. How many things can you count that have supported you for that long? Jefferson City Magazine | 119

573.893.2950

www.beeseensigns.com

 Custom Sign Fabrication  Neon – LEDs

With over 325 years of combined

 Channel Letters

experience, the

 Vinyl & Computerized Equipment

Bee Seen Signs

 USA LED Message Centers  Fabricated Locally

staff is equipped to handle custom sign jobs of all sizes.

 3 Graphic Artists on Staff

JEFFERSON CITY’S LARGEST FULL-SERVICE SIGN COMPANY

Live Outdoors

DIYT Y KI DIIT K

This spring is the perfect seaLive Outdoors

son to upgrade your outdoor This spring is the perfect sealiving space. your Whether son to upgrade outdoor you are interested in a full living space. Whether you outare interested in aorfull outdoor makeover, one of our door makeover, or one of our simple DIY kits (shown), we simpleeverything DIY kits (shown), we to have you need have everything you need to turn yourdream dream a reality. turn your intointo a reality. Stop byour our showroom today. Stop by showroom today.

(573) 635-7119 445-9484 (573) (573) 445-9484

2203 McCarty 3115East Paris Rd Street 3115 Paris Rd Jefferson City, Columbia, MO MO 65202 Columbia, MO 65202 www.midwestblock.com www.midwestblock.com facebook.com/Midwestblock facebook.com/Midwestblock www.midwestblock.com

facebook.com/Midwestblock

120 | January/February 2018

ABOUT TOWN

Central Bank Reception for SSM Health St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital New Medical Staff Members On November 9, Central Bank threw a reception to celebrate newly hired members of the SSM Health St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital medical staff.

Dr. Kyle Bruns and Nick Monaco

Theressa Ferguson and Theresa Tolksdorf

Ryan Freeman, Terry Higgins, Dr. Marcus Wade, Chris Straub, Joe Scheppers, Brent VanConia

Photos provided by Janet Wear-Enloe.

Kerri Jenkins, Jim Stratton, Amelia Boyd, Janet Wear-Enloe

American Cancer Society Pretty in Pink Cocktail Party On October 19, the American Cancer Society threw a cocktail party for the ladies to help save lives. Featuring food from Revel Catering and lots of entertainment options, ladies in attendance donned their pink to raise money for cancer research. Photos provided by Ashley Hale.

Evers & Company Table

Jefferson Bank ladies

Annette Tomczak and Doris Carroll

Dianne Kottwitz and Dinah Scearce

Gloria and Claire Hansen Jefferson City Magazine | 121

Nathan Voss

CONSTRUCTION, LLC CUSTOM HOMES ADDITIONS / REMODELS CUSTOM CONCRETE DECKS CUSTOM POOL DECKS STAMPED / DECORATIVE CONCRETE

WWW.NATHANVOSSCONSTRUCTION.COM | (573) 761-7384

122 | January/February 2018

ABOUT TOWN

American Cancer Society Pink Ribbon Golf Tournament This golf tournament, held at Redfield Golf and Country Club on October 6, was held to honor our friends who have won the battle against breast cancer and remember those who lost their battle. It was a celebration of the hope that we will find a cure.

Ruthlese TeeTotalers Team, Ladies Flight winners

Jefferson Bank Golf Team

Photos provided by Ashley Hale.

Pelzer’s Pals Golf Team

Kim and Friends Golf Team

MidMo Powerhouse Golf Team

Career Readiness Event at Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City U.S. Cellular provided Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City’s 7th through 12th graders with insight on professionalism, resume writing, the interview process, and the influence of technology in the workplace during a recent career readiness event. Students were entertained and inspired through a unique mix of education and fun. U.S. Cellular associates were all smiles with Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson City members during the event. Students received a sneak peek of the preparations required to secure a job in today’s competitive marketplace. This volunteer event is just one of the many ways U.S. Cellular works to demonstrate its commitment to local communities. Photos provided by Kelly Harris.

Justin Skiles, U.S. Cellular; Tony Webster; Marqual Conley; Shawn Adams; Noa Cunningham; Nicholas Adams; Deshon Brown; Mikyel Kaywood

U.S. Cellular associates with prize winners Amarriah Lee, Deshon Brown, and Ashton Philpott. Jefferson City Magazine | 123

Come view our New Showroom & Indoor Slab Selection

124 | January/February 2018

CALL TODAY TO SET UP A SHOWROOM TOUR.

(573) 395-0141

Martellaro Marble & Granite specializes in Granite, Marble and Quartz Countertops.

10011 Marina Rd. â&#x20AC;¢ Jefferson City, MO 65101 www.MartellaroRocks.com

Want to volunteer or give back to the community but don't know where to begin? Here's a list of local nonprofit organizations to help you make an

American Cancer Society 573-635-4839 2409 Hyde Park Rd. Jefferson City, MO 65109 CAPITAL CITY CASA 573-893-2272 PO Box 1627 Jefferson City, MO 65102 AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MISSOURI 573-796-2088 2014 Rock Ridge Ct. Jefferson City, MO 65109

American Red Cross Blood Donation Center 800-733-2767 3230 Emerald Ln. Jefferson City, MO 65109

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB Mailing address: P.O. Box 105558 Jefferson City, MO 65110 Office: 925 East Atchison Ct. Jefferson City, MO 65101 573-634-2582

Capital Arts 573-635-8355 1203 Missouri Blvd. Jefferson City, MO 65109

Central Missouri Foster Care & Adoption Association 573-298-0258 809 Swifts Hwy. Jefferson City, MO 65102

Conservation Federation of Missouri

DREAMS TO REALITY 573-681-9675 500 Jefferson St., Jefferson City, MO 65101

Family and Community Trust 573-636-3228 114 B E. High St. Jefferson City, MO 65101

573-634-2322 728 W. Main St. Jefferson City, MO 65101

THE FOOD BANK FOR CENTRAL & NORTHEAST MISSOURI 573-474-1020 2121 Vandiver Dr., Columbia, MO 65202

Council for Drug Free Youth

First Christian Church

573-636-2411 306 Jefferson St. Jefferson City, MO 65101

DAY SOLUTIONS FOUNDATION 573-291-3525 P.O. Box 652 Jefferson City, MO 65102

Food Pantry 327 E. Capital Ave. Jefferson City, MO 65101

GIRL SCOUTS OF THE MISSOURI HEARTLAND 877-312-4764 230 Metro Dr. Jefferson City, MO 65109 Jefferson City Magazine | 125

JOIN for

eive a FREE training session And rec !

JANUARY 1 - FEBRUARY 28

Mention this ad at: 3220 West Edgewood, Jefferson City, MO. 65109 | 573.659.4763

126 | January/February 2018

Members also receive: • FREE Fitness Consultation • 30-Day Fitness Plan • FREE Access to the Anytime Fitness App! > Access a new workout everyday > Set goals and track progress

© 2018 Anytime Fitness, LLC. Offer valid upon signing a minimum 12 month membership agreement, valid at participating locations only. Each Anytime Fitness club is independently owned and operated. Training session available at the home club designated upon joining, consult with club for details. Terms and conditions may vary based on applicable state laws and regulations. Offer valid until February 28, 2018.

Missouri Nonprofit 573-635-4100 600 West Main St. Jefferson City, MO 65101 HALO 573-418-9912 3519 Bennett Ln. Jefferson City, MO 65101

Missouri Alliance for Children and Families

Missouri Parks & Recreation Association 573-636-3828 2018 William St. Jefferson City, MO 65109

SPECIAL LEARNING CENTER 573-634-3070 1115 Fairgrounds Rd. Jefferson City, MO 65109

573-556-8090 400 Dix Rd. Jefferson City, MO 65110

Missouri Alliance – Home Care 573- 634- 7772 2420 Hyde Park Rd. #A Jefferson City, MO 65109

Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence 573-634-4161 217 Oscar Dr. #A Jefferson City, MO 65101

Missouri Community Action Network 573-634-2969 2014 William St. Jefferson City, MO 65109

MISSOURI VALLEY BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS 573-634-3290 Knowles YMCA Annex 424 Stadium Blvd. Jefferson City, MO 65110

Mobile Food Pantry Capital West Christian Church 1315 Fairgrounds Rd. Jefferson City, MO 65101

New Horizon Community Support 573-636-8108 2013 William St. Jefferson City, MO 65109

Missouri Family Health Council 573-636-6101 1909 Southridge Dr. Jefferson City, MO 65109

Missouri Kids Count 573-526-3581 3418 Knipp Dr. #2 Jefferson City, MO 65109

Missouri Legislative Black Caucus Foundation 573-761-4166 119 W. Ashley St. Jefferson City, MO 65101

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MISSOURI 573-635-1660 1001 Diamond Ridge Ste. 800 Jefferson City, MO 65109

People Helping Paws

UCP HEARTLAND – GIBBS CENTER FOR INDEPENDENCE 573-761-7300 1719 Southridge Dr. Jefferson City, MO 65109

573-340-9093 PO Box 6971 Jefferson City, MO 65102

Salute to America 573-761-0704 700 E. Capital Ave. Jefferson City, MO 65101

Salvation Army

UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI 573-636-4100 205 Alameda Dr. Jefferson City, MO 65109

573-635-1975 927 Jefferson St. Jefferson City, MO 65101

Missouri Mental Health Foundation

Samaritan Center

573-635-9201 221 Metro Dr. Ste. C Jefferson City, MO 65109

573-634-7776 1310 E. McCarty St. Jefferson City, MO 65101

VITAE FOUNDATION 573-634-4316 1731 Southridge Dr. Jefferson City, MO 65109 Jefferson City Magazine | 127

Relax. Breathe deep.

Essential Oils and diffusers available at Carrie’s Hallmark

Carrie’s Hallmark Shop OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

OPEN UNTIL 8:00pm Weeknights & Saturdays | 12-4pm EVERY Sunday

117 E. High | 573-635-2712 |

Congratulations,

Cassandra Atchinson on being named a Jeff City “2018 Ones to Watch”! We’re so proud of you!

modernlitho.com | (573) 635-6119 6009 Stertzer Road, Jefferson City, MO 65101

128 | January/February 2018

ADVERTISER INDEX American Heart Association......................... 10

Edward Jones..................................................... 11

Realty Executives- Heath Higgins................14

Ana Marie’s Bridal..........................................108

Fischer Body Shop...........................................22

Restore - It.......................................................... 97

Anthony Porter Insurance..............................58

Freeman Mortuary........................................... 46

Riley Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac........68

Anytime Fitness.............................................126

GFI Digital............................Inside Front Cover

Riley Toyota Scion............................................44

Argyle Catering............................................... 104

Gratz Real Estate & Auctioneering............ 88

River Region Credit Union.............................43

Arris Pizza Palace/Arris Bistro.................... 34

Hawthorn Bank............................................... 132

Riverbend Dentistry......................................... 78

Heisinger Bluffs & St. Joseph’s Bluffs..... 122

Roark Aluminum................................................ 9

HyVee......................................................40 & 103

Saffee’s................................................................ 67

J. Pfenny’s......................................................... 26

Samuel’s Tuxedos..........................................106

JCMG.........................................................48 & 131

Scholastic, Inc...................................................... 4

Jefferson Bank of Missouri........................... 96

Schulte’s Fresh Foods...................................108

Jefferson City YMCA.......................................60

Scott Hamblin...................................................66

John Bardgett & Associates.......................... 91

Scruggs Lumber...................................................3

Joyce Bremer / Remax.................................. 61

Signature Homes..............................................20

Kwik Kar Wash and Detail............................124

Spectators...........................................................30

LaBelle Cabinetry & Lighting......................126

SSM Health......................................................... 52

Lyla Stark - Re/Max........................................ 24

Studio 573.......................................................... 110

Martellaro Marble and Granite....................124

Sweet Chipotle Catering............................... 107

Mercedes-Benz of Columbia..........................6

The Blue Diamond........................................... 97

Midwest Block & Brick..................................120

The Colonel Bolton Home...........................109

Modern Litho/Brown Printing....................128

The Genesis Company............................ 13 & 15

Nathan Voss Construction.......................... 122

The Millbottom............................................... 105

Central Trust Company.................................. 46

National Fair Housing Alliance.................... 62

True False Film Fest.........................................70

Community Asset Builders............................91

Naught Naught Insurance Agency............128

US Rents It....................................................... 105

Council for Drug Free Youth..........................97

Organize That Space...................................... 58

Vandelicht’s Jewelers....................................109

Culvers................................................................110

Outbound Physical Therapy & Rehab......110

Vaughan Pools & Spas....................................44

Designs By Tina, LLC...................................... 117

Prison Brews......................................................67

Wallstreet Group...............................................49

Dogwood Social................................................82

Providence Bank.............................................. 68

Woodman Engineering Co.............................49

Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home....................... 88

Rademan Communications......................... 82

Xtreme Body & Paint.........................................5

Bee At Home.....................................................82 Bee Seen Ad Specialties, Inc. & Bee Seen Signs............................................120 Beth McGeorge Team - Re/Max........ 16 & 42 BMW of Columbia.............................................18 Boone Hospital................................................... 7 Boys & Girls Club of the Capital City..........92 Burns Optical.....................................................58 Call & Gentry Law Group................................56 Capital Dentistry for Children...................... 96 Capital Mall........................................................ 66 Capital Region....................................................12 Capitol Plaza Hotel....................................... 106 Carrie’s Hallmark............................................ 128 Central Bank...................................... 8, 60 & 74 Central Dairy and Ice Cream Company.....74 Central Missouri Dermatology......................56

Jefferson City Magazine | 129

MEMORY LANE

Building Bridges The Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce began its 125-year journey by building the first bridge to the Capitol. by B I L L PL A N K, NAUG H TNAUG H T I NS U R A NC E AG E NC Y, 2018 C H A M B E R OF C OM M E RC E C H A I R M A N photo provided by M I S S OUR I STAT E A RC H I VE S

efferson City’s first bridge was built in 1896 and landed at what is now Rotary Centennial Park at the end of Bolivar

Street. (For those that enjoy a fine Guinness

material, social, and educational interests of

people to initiatives and industries are

the city,” and their first project was the bridge.

just as important as the physical bridges

They funded the $250,000 project with private

crossing the river. The chamber, primarily

funds and continued to champion other

through volunteer efforts and private

initiatives to improve the area. These leaders

financial support, has been instrumental

were influential in connecting Jefferson City to

in most of Jefferson City’s community

Columbia, Ashland, Russellville, and Lohman.

betterment and economic development

More impressively, they campaigned statewide

projects and initiatives over the past 125

to keep the capitol in Jefferson City as other

years. This year, please join the nearly

cities were trying to relocate it after the

2,000 chamber members in celebrating the

building burned down in 1911. The Commercial

accomplishments that have made Jefferson

Club grew and eventually became the

City the great place it is — and help us

Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce.

continue building bridges to the future.

The Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 125th anniversary throughout 2018. (By the way, if you want to impress your friends, a 125th anniversary is called the quasquicentennial.) The chamber traces its roots back to the initiative to build the bridge; however, the true value of the Chamber has always been the efforts of business and civic leaders to make our community a better place. The metaphorical bridges created by connecting

The true value of the chamber has always been the eﬀorts to make our community a better place.

and cheeseburger, this is just down the street from Paddy Malone’s.) The steel-and-wood drawbridge spanned 1,745 feet, took exactly one year to build, and cost $250,000. Twenty thousand people attended the dedication on May 22, 1896. The bridge was a big deal — travelers to our state capitol previously had to cross either upriver or downriver. As big an inconvenience as that would be for us today, imagine how much time and stress that would add when traveling by horse and buggy! The 1896 bridge was replaced in 1955 by the southbound Highway 54 bridge we continue to use today. Although the old bridge was reduced to rubble in late 1955, it remains a vital component of the history of our city. Seeing a need for easier transportation and the benefits it would have for all Jefferson Citians, a group of prominent business and civic leaders met on April 6, 1893 to form the “Commercial Club.” Their purpose, as stated in meeting minutes, was “To advance the 130 | January/February 2018

Sign reads “You must not drive faster than a walk while on the bridge,” circa 1896.

PHYSICIAN OWNED and OPERATED.

you?

But what does that mean for you?

JCMG grew from the belief that the best medical decisions are made by patients working closely with their physicians. JCMG physicians are entrepreneurs. They’re fueled by passion for their field and compassion for the neighbors and friends they treat. They’re innovative; they break new ground and are often the first to bring new treatments to Jefferson City. Physician-owned means JCMG doctors work hard – not for a corporate system, but for Jefferson City, and for you.

Learn More: JCMG.org/First Jefferson City Magazine | 131

JEFFERSON CITY MAGAZINE | 122 E. HIGH ST., 3RD FLOOR | JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65101

“At Hawthorn Bank, they make you feel like you’re important. It’s like being at home.” – James Washington and Donna Cayer Second Baptist Church

Call Chris Schrimpf at 573-761-6100.

132 | January/February 2018

HawthornBank.com