Inside Columbia Magazine - Jan/Feb 2024

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JAN/FEB 2024 EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPES • ROUTINE RESOLUTIONS • BOUNTIFUL BOOTS insidecolumbia.net

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The bank of finally finding Do you ever wonder “Why am I even with this bank?”

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Look, switching banks is a big decision. I never made the effort before, because I assumed I’d just get the same thing. After switching to The Bank of Missouri, I’ll never wonder if my bank can do more.

The bank of not settling.

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Switch to better. bankofmissouri.com/dont-settle

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WEBSITE

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features

Inside Columbia

features

C O N T E N T S

42 REFASHIONED RESOLUTIONS Create Consistency in Your New Year Commitments

49 SNOWY SOJOURNS Beat the Winter Woes with These Close to Home Retreats

56 FOOTWEAR WONDERLAND Winter Boot Fashion to Keep Your Toes (and Style) Toasty

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 11

Jan/Feb C O

N

T

E

N

T S

In every issue 14 18

FROM THE EDITORS WHAT’S ONLINE

INSIDER

24 ENCOUNTERS Learning to Help Others Heal

26 BOOKSHELF Fighting for Feathers

29 SPOTLIGHT Celebrating at a Shoe Soirée

30 CALENDAR

LIFE

34 HEALTH & WELLNESS Making Moves to Improve Your Metabolism

36 ROBINSON’S RAMBLINGS Looking Back on the History of Carver

24 94 FLAVOR 37

ULTIMATE WATCHLIST

Finding Four Frightful Films to Cause Fear

38 WEDDING Bringing Columbia to a Kansas City Celebration

90 DINING OUT Creating Memories with Coffee

92 FOUGERE’S FAVORITES Learning a Neat Sheet Recipe

94 COOKING WITH BROOK Having a Falafun Adventure

97 COCKTAIL Craving a Frosty Feeling

VIEWS

104 DARKOW DRAWS Photo

by The Marions 100 DUELING DJS 105 THE FINAL WORD 101 ON THE TOWN 103 A NEW VIEW

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from the editors

A New Adventure

Celebrating the New Year with New Faces and Fun Vibes.

I

love Columbia. Is there anything else to say when introducing myself as the new co-editor for the Inside Columbia team? As a resident of over 10 years, I find meeting the people of our community and writing their stories an immense honor. Turns out, this was a fantastic issue to start my tenure, as Columbia has so much happening this time of year. Plus, winter is my favorite season.

Understandably, it isn’t everyone’s (I can hear your boos and hisses from here).

So to get you through the cold and snowy days, we’ve found great staycation options to read about on pages 50-55 to keep your winter blues at bay. If you’re a vegetarian like me, or simply trying to eat less meat this year, follow the flavorful falafel recipe cooked up on pages 94-96.

I’d say this is going quite well so far. Luckily, I have my co-editor Zola and the rest of the team to thank for showing me the ropes. Deep thanks also go to my predecessor Madeleine Leroux. If you have recommendations for the magazine or know people and businesses in the community we should talk to, please reach out at jdurham@mailzimmer.com or DM us on our Instagram or Facebook. We’re looking forward to giving you our community’s best stories. Here’s to 2024!

Jordan Durham

Co-editor | jdurham@mailzimmer.com Inside Columbia magazine

Zola Heck

Co-editor | zcrowder@mailzimmer.com

Inside Columbia magazine

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W

hile I have had the pleasure of telling many stories as the associate editor, I’m overwhelmed with excitement to continue my journey at Inside Columbia as the co-editor. And what better way to start than with a new year celebration!

If you are starting 2024 with a New Year’s resolution, you can find tips on pages 4249 on not only how to create goals, but how to keep them throughout the whole year. Or if you are looking to try a new hobby this year, Catina Topash walks you through her journey with yoga on pages 24-25 and how she found a way to blend her two biggest passions in life.

So, grab your favorite beverage, cozy up and immerse yourself in this issue of Inside Columbia magazine — where resolutions become revolutions, new winter wonderlands await your arrival, creative recipes are available to try and new hobbies are on the horizon!

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Inside Columbia Staff CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Carla Leible carla@mailzimmer.com FOUNDERS Fred & Melody Parry fred@mailzimmer.com CO- EDITORS Jordan Durham jdurham@mailzimmer.com Zola Heck zcrowder@mailzimmer.com ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimmer.com PHOTO EDITOR L.G. Patterson lg@mailzimmer.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madelyn Jones mjones@mailzimmer.com CONTRIBUTORS John Darkow, Sara Fougere, Brook Harlan, Ava Kitzi, Celine Pastrana, Wally Pfeffer, John Robinson, Mason Stevens, Nancy Toalson

On the cover

Angad Arts Hotel’s empowering red room in St. Louis. Photo contributed by Angad Arts Hotel

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what’s online...

Enjoy additional digital content on our website and social media.

Inside Columbia Staff ADVERTISING COORDINATORS Bre Smith bsmith@mailzimmer.com MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES Karolina Arbova karbova@mailzimmer.com Josh Arnold jarnold@mailzimmer.com

MYSTERY BOX

Producer Hannah from 93.9 The Eagle and Andy from KTGR faced off in the mystery box challenge. See their shocked and nervous expressions and what’s in the box on page 100. Also, watch the video for all the fun by going to insidecolumbia.net or checking out Facebook or Instagram.

Cathy Atkins catkins@mailzimmer.com Parker McDougal pmcdougal@mailzimmer.com Tyler Morrison tmorrison@mailzimmer.com OFFICE MANAGER Becky James rjames@mailzimmer.com DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE Steve Leible

NEW YEAR NEW HABITS

Looking for manageable tips for your New Year’s resolutions? Whether you’re wanting to add more veggies in your dinner or run a 10k, check out our tips from health and fitness professionals on pages 42-48 or visit insidecolumbia.net to see how to keep your resolutions going strong.

INSIDE COLUMBIA MAGAZINE Zimmer Strategic Communications 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 InsideColumbia.net Office: 573-875-1099

Inside Columbia is published by Zimmer

#INSIDECOLUMBIA

Inside this issue is a host of post-holiday hotels, cabins and guesthouses for your winter weekend staycation. We’ll be waiting with the hot cocoa. But in case we all get snowed in, snap a picture of your favorite way to spend a staycation and post it on Instagram using #insidecolumbia by Feb. 13. We will choose from the submissions and award the winner a FREE one-year subscription to Inside Columbia! /InsideColumbia.net

/InsideColumbia

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Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2024.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Postage paid at Columbia, MO. Not responsible for omissions or information, which has been misrepresented to the magazine.

Life Insurance A Life Insurance policy can be the perfect gift for a new child or grandchild. Start building their future today!

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Call 573-875-1099 to place an order or to inform us of a change of address, or subscribe at InsideColumbia.net.

For bulk subscription rates, contact Becky James at 573-875-1099.

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NEWS RELEASES & EVENT NOTICES Contact editor at 573-875-1099, or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com.

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Send your photos with the event description and subject names for captions to zcrowder@mailzimmer.com, or mail to 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201. Not all photos received will be published.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send letters to 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com. Inside Columbia reserves the right to publish any letter to the editor.

CUSTOM PUBLISHING Let us publish a specialty magazine exclusively for your company or organization.

Call Zola Heck at 573-875-1099 or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com

REPRINTS Want to reproduce an article you’ve seen in Inside Columbia? We can provide reprints and customize them on glossy stock for your promotional needs. Minimum quantity is 500 copies. Call Zola Heck at 573-875-1099 or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com .

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 21

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Inside Columbia

insider C O N T E N T S

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Happiness in Healing ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Story from Sorrow ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Shine Your Red Shoes ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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HARMONY IN THE HEAT

Hot yoga combines the relaxing atmosphere of yoga with the intensity of a workout, creating the perfect place to increase your flexibility, burn calories, improve symptoms of depression and skin health, as well as help manage stress levels and more.

insider ENCOUNTERS

The Heart of Healing

CATINA TOPASH COMBINES TWO PASSIONS TO CREATE HARMONY.

BY ZOLA HECK · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

W

hether you are dealing

really thought ‘OK, I am going to take this

and recovery, positive psychology, yoga

with trauma, stress,

to the nth degree and try to find ways to

for seniors and other areas.

anxiety or just a long

bring holistic healing to people through

day, holistic healing in

this amazing medium.’” Now, Topash

current passions in life, her journey to

many forms is something all people can

is a certified yoga therapist, E-500 RYT,

get there was actually born through

benefit from.

YogaFit senior master trainer, YogaFit

music. “I have a master’s degree in

Catina Topash found her footing in yoga and holistic healing after her mother was diagnosed with cancer. “She and I started a wellness journey together through her cancer treatment and cancer diagnosis, and she and I did yoga training together,” Topash says. “As her cancer evolved, so did my interest and passion

“

As her cancer evolved so did my interest and passion for yoga.

for yoga.”

Topash wanted to learn not only how

24

While fitness and wellness are Topash’s

music,” she says. “So, my main thing was music, but I have always been into fitness.” After discovering her passion for yoga and healing, Topash realized she could combine her two loves and study sound yoga, bringing peace to people’s lives through vibration and sound. “I went down the sound bath and sound therapy path as well, and it was a really

Yoga Therapy faculty member, a sound

amazing time of awakening,” Topash says.

yoga could affect the physical well-

healer and the Wilson’s Group fitness

“l thought, ‘Oh, I can marry my loves,

being but also how it could be used

director. She has specialty yoga training

and use both of these things I am so

therapeutically. When her mother passed

in trauma, chronic pain, nervous system

passionate about for healing.’”

away in 2015, she really dove into yoga

disorders, heart disease, diabetes, back

and the peace it can bring into one’s life. “I

pain, pre/post-natal, injury prevention

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

Now, not only is Topash able to help people heal, but she is able to teach

insider ENCOUNTERS

others how to heal. “Teaching others to

people doing yoga. I work with people

Alongside her yoga practices,

become yoga teachers and yoga healers

completely bedridden still doing yoga.”

Topash and her husband, Bryan, co-

is so joyful to me,” Topash says. “But

Topash says yoga is truly for everyone.

also opening people’s eyes to the fact

“You don’t have to look like everybody else,

that there are so many ways to heal is

you don’t have to move like everybody else,

empowering. I love to empower people on

as long as you are breathing and moving, it

or to take one of her classes, visit

their healing journeys.”

is working.”

wilsonsfitness.com.

own Breathe@JJ’s Folly Retreat Center and Bed and Breakfast in Fayette.

For more information on Topash,

Topash’s passion lies in guiding individuals to live their best lives, encouraging them to discover their innate healing and happiness. Grounded in gratitude, she embraces each day with santosha, which is Sanskrit for contentment, and ensuring that she has a positive impact on her own life and those she influences.

So, it’s vital to Topash that people understand the benefits of yoga, sound therapy and other healing practices that are often misunderstood even though they have been around for more than 5,000 years. “Many people may not know what it is or how it works and how it can benefit you,” Topash says. Sound therapy specifically has healing powers to create harmony in the body. “Sound therapy comes in and creates harmony out of the dissonance in the body via the voice, musical instruments, etc.,” Topash says.

Whether it’s using a sound bath, which is a group setting, or during her one-onone sound therapy sessions, Topash uses various instruments to create peace within the body. “Some people want a sonic massage and others want to find healing within sound therapy sessions.”

Topash says if you have been looking to begin your own healing journey through yoga or other holistic methods, don't pay attention to the picture-perfect yoga poses you may see online.

“There is such a variety of styles and formats, and that yoga is also meditation and breathing practices; it’s not just about the poses,” she says. “Don't be discouraged by the images you see on Instagram of

What is a sound bath?

Sensory Immersion: Participants are enveloped in various sounds and vibrations created by instruments.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction: The therapeutic sounds have the potential to induce deep relaxation, helping to alleviate stress and tension.

Mindfulness Practice: Participants are encouraged to focus on the present moment, using the sounds as a point of concentration.

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insider BOOKSHELF

Finding Purpose in Pain AUTHOR ANGIE PHILLIPS INSPIRES YOUNG WOMEN TO FIND SELF-WORTH.

BY ZOLA HECK · PHOTOS BY AMBER KOELLING

L

osing a child is something no parent should ever have to experience. The pain shreds your soul, leaving a void that

cannot be filled.

Unfortunately for Angie Phillips,

her worst nightmare became a reality when she tragically lost her 20-year-old daughter, Hallie, in November 2022. What Angie didn’t expect was to be able to turn this unbearable ache into something beautiful. “I had no plans to write a children’s book at all but going through something so traumatic … allowed me to feel all of it and process it, and I started thinking, how can I keep her memory alive, how can I honor her, how can I tell a story about her that helps other people,” Angie says.

While reminiscing on all the wonderful moments in Hallie’s life, Angie thought about the moment Hallie gave her the nickname, “mama bird,” and how Hallie told others, “You teach your baby birds to fly, and when we aren’t sure about taking flight, you give us that little nudge.” It was that connection, along with Angie’s urge to make sure all young women understand their self-worth, that became the root of the story. “A lot of girls don’t understand their self-worth, and they cross paths with many people in their lives that tear them down, that are negative, with social

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insider BOOKSHELF

media and comparisons, and Hallie

fall, we have the power to get back up

her, she has a big gold headband on,”

struggled with that,” she says. “We would

if we put our trust in God. “That is why

Angie says, as Hallie was a junior at

constantly tell Hallie, ‘You are beautiful,

feathers matter.”

Mizzou and loved representing her

and you are worthy, and your worth does not come from someone else.’”

And just like a bird, Hallie always knew

black and gold. “So I knew she needed

how to lift others and help her loved

to have a headband in the story.” There

ones through hard times in life. “Hallie

are also several green hearts scattered

after losing her daughter, Angie wrote

was comfortable in hard times where

throughout the book; sunflowers, which

her first children’s book, Feathers Matter,

many people would try to shy away,”

were Hallie’s favorite flower; horses

from start to finish. “I realized that’s what

Angie says. “We recognized she helped a

sketched throughout, which Hallie had

I have to do; I have to get this message

lot of people who were struggling, and in

a deep connection with, and many more

out somehow to honor Hallie, and the

doing that, you give a gift of strength to

hidden gems that add a special touch for

conversation starts when you are young,”

other people, and that’s really the gift she

family and friends to find.

Angie says. Whether it’s a parent reading

gave back to us.”

So, in one day, just a few short weeks

And hopefully, those gems bring a little

to a young child, a teenager picking

To help this empowering story come

bit of joy to the heart amid the heaviness

up the book or even an adult, the goal

to life, Angie asked her friend’s daughter,

of grief, offering a glimmer of light in the

is for everyone to know they matter.

Kynsie Engelbrecht, who was a senior

shadows of sorrow.

“We all have special gifts,” Angie says.

in high school at the time, to illustrate

“Sometimes it takes a little while to figure

the book. This created a heartfelt

page of the book represents Hallie’s

out what they are. We all matter.”

You might even notice that the final

collaboration that infused the narrative

honor walk in the hospital. Showing

Angie hopes those who read Feathers

with warmth and a genuine connection

the love and support Angie and her

Matter will take away the message that

to the emotions surrounding the loss. “I

family received from friends, family and

it matters who you surround yourself

said, ‘She can do it. I know she can do

hospital staff, as Hallie was walked to the

with, as friends can fly with you and help

it,’ and I wanted her to be as creative as

final room to help save many lives as an

pick you up when needed. It also teaches

she can,” Angie says. “I left it wide open

organ donor. “It's a beautiful and painful

that though people will be unkind, it

to her.”

walk,” Angie says. “Something I will

doesn’t diminish your worth — everyone

Throughout the book, you’ll notice

never forget.”

is beautiful, brave and unique, Angie

several small hidden messages tied to

Sharing Hallie’s story and seeing the

says. Learn to help others when they are

Hallie. “Hallie always rocked headbands,

book have an impact on people and their

struggling and know that even when we

and in one of my favorite photos of

families has caused Angie a tremendous

Author Angie Phillips (left) and Illustrator Kynsie Engelbrecht (right).

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

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insider BOOKSHELF

sense of joy, while also realizing that it’s still all rooted in pain. “It’s overwhelming that beauty can come from so much pain,” Angie says.

If you or someone you know is dealing with grief, Angie says time may never heal the pain; instead, you must figure out how to live knowing there will always be a hole in your heart.

Writing this book for Hallie is just the beginning of sharing her story, helping others as Hallie once did and finding purpose in the pain.

Angie is preparing to publish a sequel to Feathers Matter in the fall.

To purchase your copy of Feathers Matter or to learn more about Angie, visit blendedblessedalwaysamess.com or visit Hockman Interiors Gift Store at 601 Business Loop 70 W., suite 207, to purchase a copy.

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SPOTLIGHT

Red Is Your Color

ANNUAL RED SHOE GALA CELEBRATES NEW HOUSE AND FAMILY ROOM.

BY JORDAN DURHAM · PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON

L

eap Day comes once every four

The gala will include a video with the

that the Wine and Whiskey Pull begins,

years like clockwork, and this

help of KOMU, showcasing the new

with the dinner, live auction and live

year, it makes the perfect time for

house and Family Room, and testimonies

music beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets for the

the Ronald McDonald House Charities of

from the 1983 RMHC Mid-Missouri

event start at $200 per person and include

Mid-Missouri’s annual Red Shoe Gala.

founders and families who have been

wine at each table, appetizers, entrées and

guests throughout the years.

desserts, all catered by Eclipse Catering

In April 2024, the organization is opening the new Ronald McDonald

“It’s an opportunity for our supporters

House at the corner of College Avenue

and perspective supporters to come

and Stadium Boulevard, and the Ronald

together for a really fun evening,” Gray

McDonald Family Room in the new

says. “It’s kind of a big cocktail dinner

Children’s Hospital and Birthing Center.

party more than a fundraiser.”

The new house will offer 31,000 square

the year and is expected to sell out again.

private guest rooms. With the 24 rooms

This year, gala attendees can expect a

filled 365 days of the year, the house

Wine and Whiskey Pull, the six-piece

accommodates a total of 8,760 nights

Norm Reubling Band, dinner, a live

of lodging and warm meals annually.

auction and a 360-degree camera, along

In addition, amenities will include a

with a backdrop for photos.

trails, TVs in each room and more.

“It’s a sight to see,” says Jessi

WHAT

Red Shoe Gala

WHERE

The Atrium on Tenth

WHEN

Whitehurse, director of RMHC Events.

Feb. 29

COST

“In 1983, we opened our doors for the

“The amount of generosity in that room

first time at the old, old Ronald McDonald

when we do the paddle raise, it is mind

House,” says Terri Gray, executive director

blowing. People giving money, and they

of RMHC Mid-Missouri, “All of this year,

don’t get anything for it other than

we’ve been recognizing our 40 years of

feeling great and helping somebody. It’s

service, but we’re really going to celebrate

really fun to watch.”

that in February.”

Details

The event is the biggest fundraiser of

feet of finished space, providing 24

workout room, outdoor gardens, walking

and Events.

Doors open at 6 p.m., the same time

$200 per ticket

WEBSITE

rmhcmidmo.org/event/redshoe-gala/

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What’s Going On THE EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW.

Dates and events are subject to change. Please visit the event website for the most up-to-date information.

January JAN. 5 THE TASTING ROOM: AFTER DARK MUSIC SERIES

LES BOURGEOIS VINEYARDS Treat yourself to The Tasting Room: After Dark Music Series, where you can sip your favorite wine while listening to the live music of Anthony Wilkerson.

6-8 p.m.; free plus cost of wine; missouriwine.com

JAN. 20 ROC7K TRAIL RUN

COSMO PARK Ready, set, run! Or watch your favorite runner take on the 11th annual Rhett’s Outdoor Challenge Trail Run. Workout to this challenging yet scenic run to continue those resolutions.

9 a.m.; $35 advance registration; parks.como.gov

JAN. 27 INTERNATIONAL FLY FISHING FILM FESTIVAL LIVE EVENT

RAGTAG CINEMA Reel in the popcorn for the International Fly Fishing Film Festival showing of one of their selected films.

Lure your friends and family to come along and learn about these fish-filled films.

10:00 a.m.; TBA; flyfilmfest.com

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INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

JAN. 27-28 COLUMBIA MO COMIC & TOY WINTER SHOW

COLUMBIA MALL Praise all things pop culture with comics, Funko pops, video game tournaments, a cosplay showcase, vendors and more. Bring the whole family as this winter event includes pop culture both old and new.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; free; quadcitycon.com

February FEB. 2 TRIO MENIL

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF COLUMBIA, MO Experience the masterful sounds of Trio Menil, the 2023 Plowman Chamber Music Competition Grand Prize winner. The trio will be music to your ears as they perform an entire night’s program.

7 p.m.; $20; odysseymissouri.org

FEB. 2 TAYLOR’S VERSION: A SWIFTIE DANCE PARTY

ROSE MUSIC HALL Are you … "Ready For It?" Grab a fellow Swiftie and dance the night away to the songs you know "All Too Well" with the Taylor’s Version DJ-dance party.

9 p.m.; $15-$20; rosemusichall.com/event/

FEB. 10 MUSE POLE FITNESS 12th ANNIVERSARY SHOWCASE

THE BLUE NOTE Fly high with the members of Muse Pole Fitness as the business hosts its 12th Anniversary Showcase. Prepare for instructors and students to spin in both pole and aerial performances.

8 p.m.; $15-$35; musepolefitness.com

FEB. 20 MIZZOU MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. TENNESSEE

MIZZOU ARENA Cheer on the Mizzou Tigers at Mizzou Arena as they face the Tennessee Volunteers. After last year’s buzzer-beating Tiger win, this is a matchup to see.

6 p.m.; $45-$90; mutigers.com

FEB. 24 THE COMO WEDDING EXPERIENCE

THE ATRIUM ON TENTH Plan and create the perfect wedding with the help of The COMO Wedding Experience downtown and its 50 vendors. Upgrade your experience to see a live wedding, fashion show and dance party reception.

10 a.m.-7 p.m.; TBA; andrealynevents.com

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Inside Columbia

life C O N T E N T S

34

Metabolic Maestro ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

36

The Carver from Diamond ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

37

Spinetingling Cinema ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Vandegriffe Vows

FIRE ZEN

Nothing is cozier than cuddling up in your pajamas with hot cocoa in hand by the fireplace. But it’s essential to ensure you start the fire safely. Remember to have a fire extinguisher on hand, a spark screen for safety, an iron grate for the logs and to avoid using liquid fire starters.

life HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Metabolic Mastery

ELEVATE YOUR FITNESS PLAN THROUGH TARGETED TRAINING.

BY MASON STEVENS · PHOTOS BY AVA KITZI

M

etabolism is one of the most important topics related to health and fitness. Numerous diets, workout routines and supplements claim to boost metabolism. Books are published and podcasts released every day with advice on the topic.

To understand all the buzz, it helps to understand what metabolism is and

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INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

why it’s important. The simplest way to think of metabolism is to view it as the conversion of food to fuel. When we eat food, that food is broken down into nutrients. Macronutrients, like fats, carbs and proteins, are metabolized and converted into energy. We’re familiar with this energy being expressed as calories. Some energy is immediately used to fuel the body. The remaining

calories are stored as mostly body fat or carbs called glycogen. When this energy is needed, metabolism kicks in again and those fats and carbs are used to fuel everything from breathing, to heartbeat, movement and every chemical process in the body.

This isn’t unique to humans either.

Metabolism is essential for all life on Earth. Not many topics are more

life HEALTH AND WELLNESS

important than that. But this isn’t usually what we hear about metabolism.

Most of the discussion is on weight loss. You’ve probably heard that weight gain is the result of slow metabolism or that weight loss comes from boosting metabolism. There is a nugget of truth here, but this significantly oversimplifies the importance of metabolism. I’ll come back to weight management later, but the crucial conversation revolves around metabolism for long-term health.

When metabolism isn’t functioning properly, there is a significant increase in disease. An unhealthy metabolism is associated with everything from diabetes and cardiovascular disease to dementia and even cancer. A condition called metabolic syndrome occurs when several metabolic systems go awry.

The result is increased body fat around the waist, high blood sugar, low HDL cholesterol, increased amounts of fat in the blood and high blood pressure.

Physicians diagnose metabolic syndrome if three or more of these conditions are present. The difficulty is that most of these conditions don’t show symptoms.

Regular monitoring and blood tests with your doctor, along with testing with an exercise physiologist are the best ways to stay informed of your metabolic risk.

Metabolic tests like Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) and exercise metabolism (VO2) are great tools to assess your metabolic health and function.

Your RMR is the number of calories metabolized to keep you alive at rest. For a lot of folks, this is somewhere between 1,000 and 2,000 calories per day. It’s a big range, affected by several factors like height, weight, age, sex and individual genetics. Measuring RMR will tell you the exact calorie needs for your body.

Similarly, VO2 is a snapshot of your metabolism, but only during exercise.

Both tests involve measuring the oxygen and carbon dioxide you’re breathing, either at rest or while exercising. The result is a picture of your metabolic

health, function and fitness. Perhaps one of the most important pieces of information gathered during VO2 testing is your metabolic efficiency (zone 2).

The aerobic zone that improves metabolic function the most is known as zone 2. This is an exercise zone where your effort is high enough to cause heavy breathing but low enough that you can still carry on a conversation.

Research has shown that 1.5-3 hours per week of zone 2 exercise can prevent metabolic dysfunction, promote fat loss and improve several health risk factors. In addition to zone 2 training, muscle training is essential for a healthy metabolism. You’ve probably heard that lean muscle mass raises metabolism. While this is true, it’s a pretty small effect. More importantly, healthy muscle tissue is more sensitive to insulin, metabolizes fat and carbs more efficiently, absorbs more oxygen and helps to improve blood pressure.

The ideal prescription for muscle

health is two-three days per week of strength training. The best strength training routines focus on all aspects of muscular fitness. They start with muscle endurance, progress to building lean muscle mass, followed by increasing muscular strength and eventually improving the speed and power of muscle contraction. If your primary goal is metabolic health, shoot for two days of strength training per week, an hour each. On three more days, complete 30 minutes of zone 2 exercise like bike riding or speed walking. For more emphasis on fat loss and longevity, experienced exercisers can lift weights three days per week. Spend three more days doing an hour of zone 2. Your metabolism will thank you!

Mason Stevens is owner and clinical exercise physiologist at MET-Fitness in Columbia. He has his master’s in kinesiology and 20 years of experience in sports conditioning, health coaching and exercise physiology.

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life ROBINSON'S RAMBLINGS

A Diamond Mine

GET TO KNOW GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER ON THE ROAD.

I

BY JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON t’s a peaceful spot, tucked into the

opportunity to discover Carver's reach.

young student's creativity — or your

beauty of the Missouri Botanical

On this gold mine of a Diamond farm,

own — visit this monument to Carver,

Gardens. George Washington

the George Washington Carver National

including a replica classroom based on

Carver would approve of the Carver

Monument — the oldest of six national

young George's Neosho school experience,

Garden, while gently reminding us of his

parks/sites in Missouri — has been

with McGuffey Readers and small slate

simple prescription for healthy plants.

dusted off, spiffed up and packed with

blackboards at each seat.

It's understandable that in America's

enough common sense to save the world,

Visitors get a hands-on experience in

fast-food appetite for history, we know

compliments of Carver. In the middle of

the Carver laboratory, an exact replica of

little more than peanuts about George

a restored prairie, the monument offers

Carver's classroom at the Tuskegee Institute,

Washington Carver. In too many

equal parts Carver science, Carver care

complete with sinks and beakers and all the

instances, America's collective knowledge

and Carver lifestyle.

tools necessary to participate in science.

about our icons gets boiled down to the

Sure, he developed 300 uses for

Throughout the exhibits, your kids have

the lowly-regarded peanut, including

hands-on opportunities to look through

Nuts to that.

paper and ink, gasoline and shampoo,

microscopes and conduct experiments.

Carver was a trailblazer in agriculture,

insecticide and nitroglycerin. Perhaps

Carver made it a lifelong practice to

more important, he showed that by

demonstrate creative uses for things people

planting peanuts in rotation with cotton,

normally throw in the garbage. As such,

with the children, head west down Route

the peanut plant actually introduced

Carver became America's foremost recycler.

66. Southeast of Joplin, on a farm outside

nutrients back into the soil. Carver's novel

He believed that nothing around the

tiny Diamond, Missouri, a national

idea to rotate the peanut crop with cotton

house should be discarded if it could be

monument celebrates the life of one of

had a beneficial side effect: it dealt a blow

used. He warned that destroying usable

America's greatest thinkers, inventors

to the boll weevil's devastating grip on the

items was a lack of vision. “And where there

and humanitarians. As far as national

cotton field economy.

is no vision,” he said, “people perish.”

substance of a slogan.

education, ecology and life.

If you’re looking for a field trip weekend

monuments, this pastoral site doesn't

No, he didn't invent peanut butter.

get the face time of Mt. Rushmore or

I think Elvis did that. But Carver did

the traffic of the Grand Canyon. But this

develop 70 uses for pecans and 300

At the center of his soul, this complex

birthplace of the grandfather of green is a

colored paints from clay. He made

man has a very simple philosophy of life,

hands-on gold mine of pure genius.

synthetic marble from wood pulp, paint

best reflected in his two-word prescription

from used motor oil, athlete's foot

for growing healthy plants.

He was born a slave, who grew to become America's preeminent recycler, its

medicine from persimmons, paving

patron saint of sustainable agriculture, and

bricks from cotton and stamp glue from

along the way, its social conscience. His

sweet potato starch. He made clothing

John Drake Robinson is a former director

name is no less impactful than John Muir

from sweet potatoes, medicine from pine

of the Missouri Division of Tourism. More

or Teddy Roosevelt or Rachel Carson.

needles and fuel from corn.

of John's travel stories are available at

School children have a wonderful

36

“Everything on Earth has a purpose,” he told students.

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

If you want to flip the switch on your

"Love them."

johndrakerobinson.com.

life ULTIMATE LIST

Chill And Thrill 4 MOVIES TO SPOOK YOUR SENSES.

BY NATHAN SHAGS MCLEOD WELCOME TO OUR ULTIMATE LISTS! In each issue, you will find a curated selection of things to listen to or watch, put together by either an on-air talent from Zimmer Communications or a member of the Inside Columbia staff. For this issue, Nathan Shags McLeod from 96.7 KCMQ shared his ultimate watchlist for movies that will surely send a shiver down your spine. Scan the QR code on this page to see more about each show. Enjoy!

My favorite genre of film is horror. I love a good scary movie year-round, but they hit harder in the winter. It's cold, dark and miserable, so there's no better time to send a chill down your spine. I worry my taste might be a bit brutal for such a lovely publication, so I will use my co-host as the barometer. Trevor hates anything scary, so on our show, he is forced to watch one frightening movie a year, voted on by our audience. Here is the list of the four scary movies he's been forced to watch, from most scary to least.

"The Exorcist" — Hulu

“The Exorcist” is a 1973 supernatural horror film that is a true classic in every sense of the term. It was the first horror movie to be nominated for an Oscar and still holds up today. Even if you don't like horror, everyone should watch it at least once. It made such a cultural impact on our society and movies moving forward.

Linda Blair is still known to this day for her performance at 14 years old, playing Regan MacNeil.

"Sinister" — Prime Video

“Sinister” is a 2012 supernatural horror film and consistently ranks as the scariest movie of all time, according to science. The film is full of dread, and every aspect of the movie is made to make you feel uncomfortable. The lack of lighting, the unnerving home videos and the weirdly pitched sounds are all so unsettling.

There are some legit jump scares, and if you're like Trevor, you'll find yourself saying things like, "Don't shush me, child! I am an adult! I'm stronger than you."

"The Conjuring" — HBO Max

“The Conjuring” is a 2013 supernatural horror film that found such success it spun off a massive horror movie franchise. Based on the adventures of famed Ed and Lorraine Warren, paranormal investigators and authors associated with prominent cases of haunting and the supernatural, who investigate a family in need and suddenly find themselves neck-deep in jump scares. This film ranks No. 5 as the scariest movie of all time, according to science.

"The Thing" — HBO Max

“The Thing” is a 1982 science fiction horror film and one of my favorite movies of all time. It has everything I love: shape-shifting aliens, flame throwers and Kurt Russell. Best known for its special effects, which still hold up today, the movie sets a great tone of disbelief, despair and distrust. It will keep you guessing to the end. I think it's John Carpenter's finest work and this is from a guy who's directed “Halloween,” “The Fog,” “Christine” and “Escape from New York,” just to name a few.

SCAN TO DOWNLOAD THE PLAYLIST

Listen to The Morning Shag with Shags and Trevor from 5:30-10 a.m. weekdays on 96.7 KCMQ.

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

37

ADVERTISEMENT

life WEDDING

‘Two of a Kind’

HOMETOWN COUPLE WEDS WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CONGA. Photo by Aventi Weddings

BY JORDAN DURHAM

C

Kiley Marshall and Nick Vandegriffe were married Sept. 16 at Three Points in Kansas City.

olumbia roots go deep for

“The goal of the day was for everyone

Kiley Marshall and Nick

to enjoy themselves and the day. I think

Vandegriffe. Both were

that was accomplished,” Kiley says. “Our

in the ceremony, the couple’s officiant,

born and raised in the area

comparatively small wedding was special

Khalil Diya, and Nick have been friends

and graduated from the University of

to us because it involved our family and

since the seventh grade. The reception

Missouri-Columbia.

closest friends.”

followed the nuptials with dancing,

Incorporating more of their hometown

When it came to the wedding,

The plans for an outdoor ceremony

the entire party was made up of MU

with an urban skyline lounge theme had

graduates, and Tiger Stripe ice cream was

to change quickly as a storm began to

“Having such a close-knit group of

featured on the menu. And how could it

move in, leading the events team to shift

family and friends made our celebration

not with Kiley’s grandfather, who was in

the wedding inside. Ultimately, only a few

just what we wanted it to be: an

attendance, being the inventor?

drops of rain fell from the predicted storm

incredibly special, intimate and fun

that tried to dampen the day.

evening,” Kiley says. “Nick started a conga

On Sept. 16, the couple wed and

38

originally planned,” Kiley says.

drinking and laughing to classic rock and “groovy” music.

celebrated their reception at Three Points

“We walked to the altar through a

line, which guests joined, and that was

in the Power and Light District in Kansas

sea of smiling family and friends, and

definitely a highlight of the evening.”

City, Missouri.

the ceremony turned out better than

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

SEMENT

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Fit for the Future Get Tips on Creating and Keeping Healthy Habits for the New Year.

By Zola Heck | Photos by L.G. Patterson and Ava Kitzi

T

he hardest part of a New Year’s resolution isn’t finding a goal, it’s keeping it. Research from the Fisher College of Business shows that by the first week, 23% of people

of Wholesome Nutrition, says the trick to keeping healthy long-term habits is to start small. “Start with two habits.

That could be anything from getting a good serving of protein each meal, it could

routines using multiple methods, including meal planning, coaching and a sense of community.

Holzum says instead of overwhelming yourself with too many new changes all

“It’s not about cutting a million things out of your diet or trying to go as clean as possible. It’s more about adding the good stuff in.” – Hannah Holzum quit their resolution, and 43% have called it quits at the end of January.

Hannah Holzum, a registered dietitian and owner

be eating a fruit or vegetable every time you eat or drinking more water.” Holzum works specifically with busy moms to build realistic and healthy

at once, it’s about the small, consistent choices that, over time, will lead to significant transformations. “I like habit building, and working, once

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 43

44 INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

you get really good at two things, at adding more in,” she says. “It’s not about cutting a million things out of your diet or trying to go as clean as possible. It's more about adding the good stuff in.”

A successful health journey is not about drastic changes but about seamlessly incorporating positive choices into your daily routine. “We should definitely make sure we are incorporating foods that we like, even if they aren’t considered a health food,” she says. “Because if we are super strict and cutting all those things out that sets us up for not wanting to do it longer and we can end up in a worse place than where we started.”

It’s about making health a

Hannah Holzum Wholesome Nutrition

part of your lifestyle rather than a seasonal commitment. Even if you start with something small, like eating more whole foods, adding more fruits and vegetables into your diet or switching to lean proteins, Holzum says those little changes can make it “easier to maintain a healthy body weight and feel good.”

But eating healthy isn’t the only factor that leads to a healthy lifestyle. Adding movement and fitness into your routine will not only improve your physical wellbeing but your mental health as well. Jamie Gleeson, head coach at Orangetheory Fitness in Columbia, says the first key to maintaining fitness goals is “having an accountability partner because the fact is just us alone, we aren’t strong enough sometimes. Or having someone who knows that you are set toward these goals so

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup INGREDIENTS 2 sticks celery, chopped finely 2 medium carrots, peeled & chopped finely 1/2 medium onion, chopped 1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons flour 6 cups chicken broth 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breast 1 cup uncooked orzo 1 tablespoon lemon juice or to taste 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or to taste Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sauté the celery, carrots and onions in a large soup pot with the butter and oil over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.

2. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then add the flour and cook for another minute or so.

3. Pour in chicken broth and stir until the flour has dissolved, then add the Italian seasoning and chicken. Bring the soup to a boil.

4. Cover the soup (lid slightly ajar) and reduce the heat, simmering for 15 minutes.

5. Stir in the orzo and cook for another 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through. (Keep the lid off and stir it often because it tends to stick to the bottom of the pot.)

6. Take the chicken out of the pot and cut it up, then add it back in. Add the lemon juice, parsley and season the soup with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately.

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 45

behind it.”

Simple swaps Zoodles or spaghetti squash for regular noodles.

Plain Greek yogurt for sour cream.

Applesauce instead of oil when baking.

Whole wheat over plain white grains.

Ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef.

Helpful habits Drink lots of water and electrolytes.

Start your day with high protein.

Snack less.

Eat more fruit and veggies.

Short at-home workout to try!

Jaime Gleeson Orangetheory

Walk for 10 minutes (maybe take your kids with you!)

10 pushups 20 situps 30 squats Start with 1 round, next time make it 2!

Remember, doing SOMETHING is better than doing nothing. Get your body moving.

Turkey Taco Quinoa INGREDIENTS

1 pound lean ground turkey 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin ¾ teaspoon salt Black pepper, to taste 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained 1 can of diced fire-roasted tomatoes ½ cup frozen corn ¼ cup salsa ½ cup rinsed quinoa ½ cup water ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese Cilantro, for garnish, if desired

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and minced garlic and cook until meat is cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Stir in all the spices and cook for another minute.

2. Add in the black beans, corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, salsa and quinoa, stirring until everything is combined.

3. When the mixture starts to bubble, add in the water, cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked. (It should have a slight bite to it, but should not be hard and crunchy.)

4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover with the lid, cooking until cheese is melted. Serve as is, or in tortillas if desired.

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48 INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

you can tell them, and they can check in with you.”

But maintaining a fitness goal is also about your mindset, Gleeson says. “You can’t be half in with your goal. It has to be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely,” Gleeson says. “It is crazy what your body can do when your mind is behind it.”

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, Gleeson says not to get discouraged or quit when you don’t see results right away. Know that big dreams take time. “The more gradual the change over time, the more sustainable it is for the future,” she says. But everyone has different goals, so Gleeson says the fitness

recommendations will differ from person to person. “It’s important to figure out what are your goals; is it to lose weight in general, is it to build up your muscle, are you wanting to run a marathon or are you just wanting to chase your kids around in the backyard,” Gleeson says.

Regardless of your goal or resolution, savor the small victories and toast to a year filled with vibrant health and flourishing habits. To learn more about Holzum’s dietary coaching and meal planning opportunities, visit wholesomenutritionco.com, or to get more information on Gleeson’s fitness coaching at Orangetheory, visit orangetheory.com.

It is crazy what your body can do when your mind is behind it.

– Jaime Gleeson

Bell Pepper Meatloaf Remember, doing SOMETHING is better than doing nothing. Get your INSTRUCTIONS body moving.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Slice the bell peppers

INGREDIENTS

1 pound lean ground beef

3 bell peppers (your choice of colors) 1 egg 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1/4 cup ketchup 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Sides: Frozen steam bag of green beans, whole-grain dinner rolls

into 1-1 1/2-inch-thick slices and lay on a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix beef, egg, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, remaining pieces of pepper chopped into small pieces and Italian bread crumbs together until wellcombined.

3. Scoop meat mixture into peppers evenly.

4. In a small bowl, whisk the ketchup and brown sugar together and brush on top of the meatloaves.

5. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Take them out of the oven and top with Monterey Jack cheese then place the baking sheet back in the oven until the cheese has melted (about 5 minutes). May top with parsley if desired.

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Take a Quick Getaway to These Local Lodgings.

By Jordan Durham Photos Courtesy of Amy Higgins Stambaugh, Angad Arts Hotel, Bryan and Catina Topash, Evolve

N

ow that the holidays have wound down, the winter months truly start setting in. While some thrive during

ences on everything from atmosphere to driving distance.

We’ve collected a diverse list of hotels, guesthouses and

the wet and cold weeks, others dream of warmer days with

cabins nearby, so you can find one that suits your style (or

beach vacations.

maybe one you haven’t heard of before) or allows you to ex-

Though mid-Missouri traditionally lacks such summery op-

plore. Instead of hunkering down for the entire winter, this

portunities during this time, there are still several options for

list hopefully will help you stave off the winter blues.

amazing staycations in the surrounding area. Luckily, with so

Happy staycation!

many options, your decision merely depends on your prefer-

INSIDE COLUMBIAJANUARY/FEBRUARY JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 COLUMBIA 2024 5050INSIDE

Sweet Hills Farm Guesthouse Columbia, Missouri

10 minutes from Columbia Sweethillsguesthouse.com

Nightly rate: $180 - $260

F

or a rural stay only minutes away from Columbia’s downtown, Sweet

Hills Farm Guesthouse is the idyllic and cozy place for a home-away-from-home experience. The property provides hiking and mountain biking trails, with a creek and cliff to explore. It also includes a healthy population of sugar maple trees where, in the late winter, guests can watch the maple syrup production if the sugar shack is fired up.

“The proximity to Columbia makes it nice to sneak away without having to travel too far,” says owner Amy Higgins Stambaugh. “With trails to explore, the winter snowfall can be quite a treat.”

A loft allows room to practice yoga, work out and play music or games. If you are a grill master, a wraparound deck means great views while cooking up dinner. Plenty of wildlife can be seen from the deck, in addition to beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

“Our place sits about three-fourths of a mile off the main gravel road, so there are plenty of stars to take in, and it is very quiet and peaceful,” Higgins Stambaugh says.

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Lakehouse A-Frame Cabin Columbia, Missouri 10 minutes from Columbia Airbnb and Vrbo

Average nightly rate: $451

P

erhaps a picture-perfect lakeside stay is exactly what you are looking for during

the winter months — even if the lake is too cold for swimming. The Lakehouse A-Frame Cabin with Community Perks offers plenty of amenities along with its gorgeous view, including a fully equipped kitchen, smart TV and open-concept interior.

“Guests have raved about the cabin’s location and how comfortable it is for families,” says Ashley Taylor, senior manager of communications at Evolve. “It’s the perfect place for peaceful lakeside coffees, hikes through the woods and even urban exploration.”

The house accommodates up to 16 people if you are bringing a large group of friends or family and are looking for extra space. It includes three bedrooms — one with a king and two with a queen bed. Additional sleeping in the living room includes two double sofa beds and in the loft with four twin beds. Do any furry members of the family or friend group want to join? The house is pet friendly for an additional fee.

Hopefully, a nice day greets Columbia during these wintry months, and then you can enjoy the outdoor community perks the house has to offer, such as picnic tables, a fire pit, a playground and beach access.

52 INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

Hotel Frederick Boonville, Missouri

35 minutes from Columbia hotelfrederick.com

Nightly rate: $125 - $300

I

n a building that is 118 years old, surprises are found around every corner. Hotel Fred-

erick owner Holly Simpson found one of her own when deciding to create a speakeasy style bar and event space — now known as The Brick Room— and discovering a dirt floor basement that had not been touched since the building’s groundbreaking in 1905.

With many renovations since then, the hotel offers guests a destination rather than simply a place to stay. The Fred is the hotel’s restaurant and lounge where guests can order craft cocktails and delicious dishes, from crab cakes, calamari and firecracker shrimp to a bacon cheeseburger, harvest cobb salad and smoked chicken tacos.

“As an independently owned boutique hotel, it’s just the right size and has the warmth of a bed and breakfast,” Simpson says. “It’s not corporate feeling. It has a very personal touch. And with 30 guest rooms, you can really pay attention to your guests and offer that personal touch.”

With hardwood floors, original doors with transoms and the occasional brick wall, the rooms hold the history of the hotel. The rooms also include antiques from around mid-Missouri, along with modern comforts such as natural bath products and luxury linens.

“I feel like it blends the local culture and history with guests who come from all around the United States,” Simpson says. “It’s rewarding to see locals mingling with people who have never been to Missouri, let alone Boonville, and just hearing their lively conversations. It’s fantastic because now people from all over the United States come back often because they want to stay at the hotel. They love the experience of the charm of the hotel, the warmth of a small town.”

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Breathe @JJ’s Folly Fayette, Missouri 30 minutes from Columbia breatheatjjsfolly.com

Nightly rate: $109 - $159

A

truly eclectic architecture awaits when you see and stay at Breathe@JJ’s Folly Bed & Breakfast. The 5,500-square-foot home, built by first owner Julius Johnmeyer, is one of a kind. Held up by Osage Orange tree trunks and overlooking a 20-acre lake, the home looks like a treehouse until you realize it includes 17 rooms. Part of its name, JJ’s Folly, hails from Johnmeyer’s family, due not only to Johnmeyer’s construction of the house but also his daredevil demeanor.

Bryan and Catina Topash bought the property from Johnmeyer’s daughter in 2017, who had already turned it into a bed and breakfast.

As a yoga instructor, Catina wanted to convey the message of relaxation along with keeping the property’s roots, which is how the name Breathe@JJ’s Folly Bed & Breakfast came about.

“Breathing is such a huge part of the yoga tradition,” Topash says. “So, it brings in the idea that when you come to this space, we want people to find peace and to be able to take a big breath and not to be distracted by the worries of their days.”

Each room corresponds to individual chakras, allowing you to find relaxation not only from visiting the space but within yourself as well. An apartment, named Sun Suite, also resides on the property.

“It’s definitely a hidden gem,” Topash says.

“People, when they first arrive, are just amazed because they never knew this was here. Because the lake is wrapped mostly around it, it feels like you’re not in the middle of Missouri. It feels like you’re in this dreamy getaway.”

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Angad Arts Hotel St. Louis, Missouri 2 hours from Columbia angadartshotel.com

Nightly rate: $132 - $391

A

n artistic past defines this boutique hotel, which is the only hotel in the

world where individuals can book a room based on the emotion of color they wish to experience. Guests can choose a room to influence their moods from empowerment red, freedom blue, rejuvenation green or curiosity yellow. In the 1920s, the building was home to the Missouri Theatre, one of the grandest theaters in the country. It also housed the Missouri Rockets, a dance group now known as the Radio City Rockettes once they moved to New York.

“The vibrancy of the hotel provides guests with an escape from the dreary outside weather and provides a getaway that intends to nurture joy colorfully,” says Nikolaus Kern, Angad Arts Hotel’s general manager.

Elevators to the 12th-floor lobby open to a 360-degree visual art installation hanging above the chameleon lounge, along with permanent art installations, a library and a biannual exhibit next to where guests check in. The hotel also has Commonwealth, a restaurant, and ART Bar, a rooftop bar that is 13 stories high. Often, the bar hosts live music, happy hours, seasonal pop-ups and igloos throughout January and February.

“There is a lot to explore while on the property,” Kern says. “You could easily spend the day just exploring the ins and outs of the hotel and not get bored, which is a must for winter travel.”

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Booti find the perfect pair of boots for the winter Season.

STYLED BY MADELYN JONES | PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON Winter fashion isn’t complete without fantastic footwear! Tall boots shine this season, keeping your feet warm and style hot. We’ve assembled numerous pairs and color combinations so you have plenty to choose from.

With help from members of our team, here are our chic boot selections to ring in the new year.

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5 6

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1. Diba True women's Mar Velus boots in light tan suede Fringe Western Wear $209 2. Pikolinos women's Daroca boots in black leather American Shoe $280 3. Kork-Ease women’s Sydney boots in tan American Shoe $260 4. Remonte women's knee high boots in black leather American Shoe $180 5. Clarks women’s Aspra knee high boots in British tan leather Dryer’s Shoe Store $200 6. Kork-Ease women’s Avril boots in black leather American Shoe $295 7. Dansko women’s Celestine boots in black Dryer’s Shoe Store $210 8. Pikolinos women's Daroca boots in cuero leather American Shoe $280 9. Aetrex women’s Vera boots in black Dryer’s Shoe Store $230 10. Spring Step women’s rider tall boots in dark brown American Shoe $250

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

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COLUMBIA'S

The world relies on thinkers and doers for progress in all areas of industry.

Original ideas have brought us devices we utilize every day: technology, medical discoveries, bestsellers and so much more. The Thought Leaders of Columbia start conversations and shape ideas in advancements for the area.

They revolutionize the ways others think, thereby offering a path forward. To foster innovation and growth creates opportunities that ripple throughout the community. Guiding creativity and transformation in their industries, these are our Thought Leaders.

PROMOTION

COLUMBIA'S

C ON STR UC TI ON SOLUTI ON S

ANDY BONDERER | CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING SOLUTION

I

n any successful partnership, trust is the foundation. Andy Bonderer, president of Construction Engineering Solution, LLC, knows this all too well. He makes trust the basis of his role with clients, seeing transparency and honesty as paramount.

“Ultimately, the cornerstone of my role is twofold: honesty in communication and the unwavering commitment to follow through on promises made,” Bonderer says.

Bonderer founded CES in July 2023 after more than 30 years in the industry. For many clients, the projects he works on are often once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. That makes communication all the more important to ensure clients know what is happening at different stages of a project, especially as the pandemic extended lead times for materials and that continues to have an impact on timelines.

“Earning this trust is a daily commitment that includes things like transparent billing practices, material choices and construction methods,” Bonderer says. “Clients seek our guidance to ensure their needs are met effectively, necessitating an honest assessment of what suits their project best.”

Choosing to work with a construction company that understands the needs of the project and is willing to go the extra mile can feel like a daunting task. Engineering and construction are complex processes when working on new projects — ones that Bonderer naturally gravitated to in college while working part time for a local civil engineering firm.

“What fascinated me most was the ever-changing landscape of construction,” Bonderer says. “Each day presented unique challenges, fostering that continuous need for problem solving.”

No matter the type of building being constructed, the development takes collaboration and open-minded discourse to make the vision become reality. Constructing the vision is as important as constructing the building. This is why it’s so important to hire a company that embraces these processes.

“The industry revolves around problem-solving, adapting, leveraging available knowledge and making calculated predictions,” Bonderer says. “An open-minded approach from both sides fosters a fruitful partnership, ensuring that the project progresses smoothly and successfully.”

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Construction Engineering Solution, LLC 5595 County Road 335 Fulton, MO 65251 573.310.3973

PROMOTION

COLUMBIA'S

MED ICA L MA R IJUAN A

PURVI PATEL, MD | MARIJUANA CARD CLINIC

M

arijuana Card Clinic, founded in the fall of 2019, provides physician certifications to help patients obtain their medical marijuana cards and its respective benefits. The clinic offers services, such as new and renewing patient appointments via in-person visit and telemedicine, assistance with state, cultivation, and caregiver licenses, providing proper documentation to courts and employers, and card printing.

Dr. Purvi Patel, a board-certified physician at Marijuana Card Clinic, says the industry sparked her interest while in her prior job seeing “the overuse, dependence, addiction and misuse of opiates and controlled substances.”

Working in the field since the onset of medical cannabis in Missouri, Dr. Patel states, “The most important and satisfying part of my job is to witness, over time, patients discontinue their addictive medications with risks of adverse and fatal side effects. Marijuana Card Clinic has certified many patients to receive life-altering medications and improve their functionality and quality of life.”

Educated and experienced providers and staff complete certifications, and registrations if requested, the same day. “Marijuana Card Clinic is known for going the extra mile when assisting patients and to make the process quick and convenient,” Dr. Patel says. At one time, the clinic was seeing upwards of 50 patients a day.

As the clinic is one of the only physical clinics in the mid-Missouri area that competes with online clinic options, Dr. Patel notes that these online clinics do not have the same accessibility and knowledge of the local communities. The clinic has hosted many events around mid-Missouri,

including Centralia, Boonville, Fulton, and Jefferson City, to improve access to all patients around the area that require physical appointments.

The legalization of recreational marijuana in Missouri started in December 2022.

Though many individuals may think this renders medical marijuana cards unnecessary, Dr. Patel sees many benefits of continuing to possess or acquire a card. As opposed to recreational consumers, cardholders have the right to lower state and local tax rates at dispensaries along with receiving priority at dispensaries in terms of lines and product availability. They also have greater possession limits, lower cultivation license

fees, and most importantly, job and parental rights protection. In addition, those under the age of 21 (and those under 18 with parental consent) must have a patient card to purchase and possess legally. Cards are now valid for three years.

In regard to the future of the clinic, Dr. Patel states, “We envision our company continuing to spread to other legal states around the country.”

Marijuana Card Clinic 1401 Creekwood Parkway 573.326.4496 mmjcardclinic.com

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PROMOTION

COLUMBIA'S

H EALT H & FIT N ESS

JARED BISCHOFF, DISTRICT MANAGER | JACK HARRISON, GENERAL MANAGER

SUPPLEMENT SUPERSTORES

A

fter seeing someone work hard and reach their fitness goals, Jared Bischoff has never heard them say, “I wish I never did that.”

As the district manager of Supplement Superstores in the Columbia region, he knows that changing to a healthier lifestyle, generally, is not easy, but that is what makes it worth it.

“There is no magic pill or one supplement that will fix all your problems, and we are very open about this with every customer who comes in,” Bischoff says.

“In order to see the changes you want to see and sustain them, then you must be willing to do the work. Supplements only work as much as you do.”

Founded in 1999 in Springfield, Missouri, Supplement Superstores requires all employees to be NASM certified personal trainers and nutritionists. In this way, the employees ensure customers buy only what they need for their specific fitness goals and lifestyle — otherwise known as “need-based equipping.” The business also recognizes that it exists to serve the community and, therefore, tries to be as engaged as possible.

Supplement Superstores looks to serve the community and be as involved as possible in local events, hosting seminars and more. These include supplying local 5K race participants and spectators with free supplements to try, hosting four eight-week fitness or body transformation challenges, visiting workspaces for health/wellness days, etc. Moreover, the stores are open to any way to give back to the community.

Along the same lines, the store’s culture

is one of the aspects that sparked Bischoff ’s interest in the business and why he says he has become the man he is today.

“You could tell that each employee was genuinely happy to help and happy to be at work. At the same time, everyone was striving to not only be the very best version

business serves as a facilitator and partner to assist and create change.

“We as a community are starting to realize if we want to change the state of the world in any manner, it starts with each one of us as individuals changing and growing first. This simply comes in the

There is no magic pill or one supplement that will fix all your problems, and we are very open about this with every customer who comes in.

of themselves but also to help the person next to them do the same.”

The health and wellness industry continues to grow throughout the community and world, even as individuals become more screen-based in terms of absorbing information, communicating and interacting. Hurdles in life are inevitable, yet Bischoff looks holistically at life and wellness.

“I do not want to lose sight of the fact we all need each other,” Bischoff says, “not only to survive but also if we want to make this community a place we can be proud of for generations to come.”

Progress defines communities and future generations. Supplement Superstores understands this starts with individuals reaching their highest potential. And the

form of holding ourselves to a higher standard daily and striving to be the very best version of ourselves,” Bischoff says. “Today is day one.”

Supplement Superstores 2910 Trimble Road, suite 107 573.442.6017 supplementsuperstores.com

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PROMOTION

COLUMBIA'S

PROFE SSI ON A L PA I N TI N G

AUSTIN ILSLEY, LACIE ILSLEY, CO-OWNERS AI PAINTING PLUS

T

o grow and professionalize a trade industry is no easy feat. Yet, Austin Ilsley, president of Ai Painting Plus, LLC, recognized the need to change how people viewed painters, and for him, that started from the ground and worked up. This meant coaching members of his own team and cultivating a supportive culture.

Ilsley started Ai Painting Plus, LLC in 2013 after working in the industry since he was 16. In 2021, his wife, Lacie Ilsley, became the new CEO. With her background in growing businesses and building culture, it seamlessly fits with the company looking to give their team members opportunities when seeking a career in the trade.

“People naturally want to grow. They want to make more money, learn new skills, take on new responsibilities, etc.,” Austin says. “People want to know specifically what they need to work on in order to progress and that is the basis of our program.”

Ai Painting Plus is a thriving business, but it is equally an advantageous training program. Austin and Lacie created modules to help their team members with their craft and mold leaders for the next generation.

“I think it’s important that the trades industry as a whole really starts to invest in developing comprehensive systems around training and leadership,” Austin says. “As we learn from and share best practices with one another, our businesses start to take the form of a well-run organization and the stigma of the unreliable, non-communicative painting contractor begins to dissipate.”

Skillsets between processes and management, whether people or business, are vastly different. Yet, Austin emphasizes that learning and growth can occur through personal coaching and programs, as some of the most gratifying moments are when members of the team purchase their first home or obtain a driver’s license after a troubled past.

“We need a ‘why’ to work for that serves us and our values,” Austin says. “When done correctly, profit becomes a result of this as opposed to the purpose for getting out of bed in the morning.”

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Ai Painting Plus, LLC 6991 South Sinclair Road 573.529.2128

Aipaintingplus.com

PROMOTION

COLUMBIA'S

EDUCATI ON

DOUGLAS STANSBERRY, ED.D. | MATHNASIUM OF COLUMBIA

A

s a lifelong learner, Douglas Stansberry now works to spread his love of education to students in the Columbia community. “My passion and drive is to instill in students a desire to learn, to encourage their curiosities, and to help them develop the academic, career and life skills they need going forward.”

Having spent 27 years as an educator, Stansberry has spent the past nine years creating this atmosphere as the owner of the Mathnasium of Columbia, Missouri. The first location of Mathnasium opened in 2002 in Los Angeles. The next year, the company started franchising. Since then, the business has grown to over 1,100 learning centers nationally and internationally, serving 100,000.

“Everything we do at Mathnasium of Columbia, whether it’s providing a safe, clean learning space, training instructors, updating students’ learning plans regularly, reporting progress to parents or treating each of our students as unique learners, is about building trusting relationships in our community,” Stansberry says.

With student math retention and achievement lagging for K-12 students across the United States, Stansberry says one of the most important parts of his job is creating visibility of the business itself. They partner with area public, private and independent schools, as well as the home-school community.

As a member of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, they participate in events that support local business. Still, the goals for Mathnasium Columbia include increasing engagement in sponsoring and attending school events.

“In an era where opportunities expand exponentially in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) related fields, the students in our community more than ever need bolstered support in becoming math-fluent,” Stansberry says. “Math is everywhere! The Mathnasium Method is geared toward helping students exercise their brains and develop math fluence, making math in the classroom and in life easier to comprehend."

Mathnasium of Columbia 3906 Peachtree Drive, suite E 573.445.7040 mathnasium.com/columbiamo

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PROMOTION

COLUMBIA'S

D ISPEN SA RY

NEVIL PATEL, CEO, CO-FOUNDER • KEPAL PATEL, PRESIDENT, CO-FOUNDER

SHANGRI-LA DISPENSARIES

B

rothers Nevil Patel and Dr. Kepal Patel have ample experience in owning, managing and branding retail businesses in Missouri, so it only made sense to further combine their passions and expertise in opening a new venture in the burgeoning cannabis industry.

Shangri-La Dispensaries, founded in 2019, started from a love of helping others create a positive lifestyle for themselves.

To the Patels, the cannabis industry represents a new horizon and culture — one that has struggled finding traction in its legitimacy since the beginning.

“Our mission is to create a supportive, educational environment for both new and experienced customers,” Dr. Patel says. “By providing a wide range of quality products and accessories to enhance their personal exploration of the world of cannabis, we strive to offer the best possible experience to our customers in their journey.”

With many years of hard work and dedication behind it, the cannabis industry is finally being accepted in the community.

In fact, this reflects the experiences of the brothers, as they spent many years working to achieve their own American dream.

“The cannabis industry is evolving every day,” Nevil says. “It is a fun industry; however, it also comes with great responsibility.”

The brothers understand that individuals from all backgrounds and interests come to their store for various reasons. Many are looking to experience cannabis for the first time, and many have consumed before. Regardless, they want Shangri-La Dispensaries to lead the way in being a personal guide to

70 INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

make all experiences positive and fulfilling while aiding in the hobbies and day-to-day activities individuals love.

“Since we all have our own preferences and desired effects we’re seeking when we use cannabis, we offer the most extensive range of high-quality products, all tracked

This happens through groups dedicated to lifestyle activities, such as bowling leagues, gardening clubs, yoga and more. It also supports and promotes special events such as music festivals, in addition to trivia, bingo and karaoke nights.

“Since cannabis should be accessible

Our mission is to create a supportive, educational environment for both new and experienced customers. seed-to-sale in the regions where we operate,” Nevil says. “We take pride in ensuring that safety of our customers comes first, and we make sure that every product we sell is of the highest quality.”

Seed-to-sale allows for quality control, but the Patels also make sure their highly knowledgeable staff create a supportive and educational environment for customers seeking advice. The two aspire to grow and become the leading, most trusted dispensary brand in the nation. The brand’s vision would introduce medicinal and recreational cannabis to new and emerging medical and recreational markets.

Much of this vision is recognizable each day in every one of the store’s locations.

Both Patels recognize the hurdles still facing the cannabis industry and understand that not everyone is amenable at this point.

However, the business does its best in joining and supporting the local community.

to all who can legally consume it, we’ve created a safe, supportive, and educational environment in several convenient locations,” Dr. Patel says, “with the intention to serve all customers no matter where they are on their cannabis journey, whether they’re using it for personal enjoyment or as much-needed medicine.”

Shangri-La Dispensaries 1401 Creekwood Parkway 888.991.9222 Shangriladispensaries.com

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CHECK OUT THE LATEST EDITION

72 BOOM MAGAZINE

BOOM MAGAZINE 73

74 BOOM MAGAZINE

MIRACLES FOR KIDS

staff Chief Executive Officer Carla Leible Founders Fred & Melody Parry Editors Jordan Durham Zola Heck Art Director Tim Flanner Graphic Designer Madelyn Jones Photo Editor L.G. Patterson Advertising Coordinators Bre Smith Marketing Representatives Kari Arbova Josh Arnold Cathy Atkins Parker McDougal Tyler Morrison Office Manager Becky James Distribution Associate Steve Leible Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Ava Kiltzi

FEBRUARY 22-23, 2024 A 2-DAY RADIOTHON TO RAISE FUNDS FOR LIFE SAVING EQUIPMENT AND SUPPORT OF PROGRAMMATIC NEEDS AT MU HEALTH CARE’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL.

BOOM MAGAZINE 75

in this issue WINTER 2024

good stuff 78

Menus

80

Agility in Aging

Kenneth Applegate’s collection of Columbia menus holds the city’s restaurant history.

Now you can view them at the State Historical Society of Missouri.

80

Joining a gym keeps you young in more ways than one. Trainers and members tell you about the benefits of health and beyond.

good life 84

Spacious Auction Site

Are you a buyer or seller who likes more options? Read about the new location and expansion for Black and Gold Auctions, LLC.

86

Season’s Glee with the Grandkids

Winter doesn’t have to mean spending time indoors for family fun. Read these suggestions for optimal time with the grandkids.

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86

2024

In have a resolution that will

make some real change...

become a foster parent.

mofosteradopt.com BOOM MAGAZINE 77

By Jordan Durham Photos by L.G. Patterson

Restaurateur Collects Menus to Preserve Industry History

C

ollecting menus from Columbia restaurants and across the United States was a passion project for Kenneth Applegate.

He owned Jack’s Gourmet in Columbia for 44 years and had a culinary history going back to his time in college.

So, the need was clear to Melissa Applegate to preserve and display some of Columbia’s restaurant history. She donated the more than 50 menus compiled by her late husband to the State Historical Society of Missouri.

“Menus give a history in art design and writing, prices and specialty food of that period of time,” Melissa says. “Understand that pictures were not used, but unusual food items enticed customers to visit, such as escargot, tableside and fresh oysters.”

Prior to owning Jack’s Gourmet, Kenneth worked in the industry at places such as Tan-Tar-A Resorts as the food and beverage director, Putsch’s 210 in Kansas City as the general manager, Hawthorn Room through the University of Missouri Student Union as the manager, among others. Of the Columbia menus, Hawthorn Room’s is the oldest (the restaurant is now gone).

Melissa also states that Kenneth was a member of the Missouri Restaurant Association out of St. Louis and was eventually inducted into their hall of fame. Yet for her, it’s still difficult to nail down a favorite place to eat.

“It’s really hard to say as I enjoy local favorites since I don’t have to cook.”

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Dasi Schlup is rowing intervals at the 5:30 a.m. class at Rho Engine Room.

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Gaining Momentum Seniors Learn to Navigate Fitness in Their Prime

BY AVA KITZI | PHOTOS BY AVA KITZI

T

he 5:30 a.m. class at Rho Engine Room has an atmosphere more akin to a club, where people happen to be doing burpees, than a gym. There are colorful strobe lights, loud hip-hop music and an instructor pumping up the class of 25 athletes through their Friday morning workout. It seems like a place 21-year-olds should be on a weekend.

Which makes it a surprising place for 65-year-old Don Corwin to be.

Of course, after years of attending

of Missouri quarterback working across from him, he will still get the work done. He knows to be available for a mid-set dad joke to keep spirits high (“I burnt my Hawaiian pizza last night. … I should have put it on aloha setting.”) and to have a hand out for high fives when the work is done.

He fits in with this group at 5:30 a.m. and is glad for it.

“I didn’t tell anybody how old I was,” he says about when he first joined the gym. After a lifetime of be-

"

yourself with younger people. Then they look at you as a peer rather than as someone who is the same age as their dad.”

While Corwin attends general population classes at Rho, other gyms in Columbia offer senior-specific classes.

CrossFit Fringe holds daily Vitality classes from 10:15-11:15 a.m. MondayThursday, while catering movements, time domains and coaching specifically toward aging athletes.

Coach Sam Noordsy says that

Nothing gets lighter as you get older. classes at Rho, he has found a comfortable place for himself in classes where he is old enough to be the parent of almost everyone else.

He knows that while he might not be able to use the same 50-pound dumbbells as the former University

ing a rugby athlete, cycling instructor and a regular in the weights section of a traditional gym, he says he’s finally found a community that pushes and supports him. “I think what helps you stay motivated in the gym and stay young in the gym is to surround

- Coach Sam Noordsy

everything they do in classic CrossFit fashion applies directly to things athletes will do in real life. While they may not be repping out heavy deadlifts anymore, they are still picking up groceries, grandkids and moving furniture. So, while they’re

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"

“I think what helps you stay motivated in the gym and stay young in the gym is to surround yourself with younger people.

Then they look at you as a peer rather than as someone who is the same age as their dad.”

Don Corwin is doing dumbbell goblet squats at Rho Engine Room.

- Don Corwin not doing big, flashy workouts every day, it’s keeping athletes successful in their daily lives.

“Nothing gets lighter as you get older,” Noordsy says.

In addition to applicable movements, the programming keeps athletes moving in different time frames. While a sprint on a stationary bike might not seem immediately relevant to retiree life, Hutmacher says it activates the same heart rate range and endorphins as a fall would. “All of it is specific to their lives because

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they’re still alive.”

For the general middle-aged population, Noordsy sells CrossFit as an investment in their health.

While they won’t immediately see massive growth, she says, the strength, pliability and endurance they’re building is what keeps them happy in their 60s, 70s and 80s. Strength is the new retirement plan, she says.

“What’s neat is that it is hard to conceptualize what doing this today will mean for you in 30 years. Then, you get to coach Vitality and see it in

action,” Noordsy says.

Yin Yoga is on the opposite side of the spectrum, with less intensity.

While still similar in many of its practices to more traditional types of yoga, Yin is taken at a much slower pace, holding poses for a longer time, and is meant to support joint health and connective tissue.

Briana Frieda teaches Yin weekly at Wilson’s Fitness in Columbia, along with hot barre. She is passionate about both as part of her own weekly workout routine because of how it

Leslie Trogdon is stretching for her workout at CrossFit Fringe.

Group fitness class at Rho Engine Room.

complements her life as a middle school orchestra teacher and musician. She knows the strength, balance and poise the two routines help develop have been integral to her wellness, as well as the benefits it can provide to older athletes.

Because of its reputation as an easier workout, more people with less gym experience are likelier to give it a go. “(Barre) draws people in because it is yoga; it is strength; it is flexibility.

There are elements of dance; there are elements of yoga, and it is 45 minutes, but it’s a good burn,” Frieda says. “I also like it because it’s a lot more fatiguing than people want to give you credit for.”

In Freida’s Yin classes, every move is adapted to the athletes in the room. If she has a regular in her class with knee problems, she has the freedom to switch out a frog pose for a leaning straddle stretch.

This is part of the beauty of it when it comes to older adults, she says. There’s no routine or specific programming that has to be done week to week.

“The adaptability ... means that it is accessible for people who have never worked out a day in their life or people who are strength training all the time,” Freida says.

With a hip surgery 10 years in the past and cognizant of the physical changes aging is bringing on for his body, Corwin knows he is lucky to have found something consistent and fun in Rho that he believes in enough to continue attending. He says it’s helped him find a community in retirement, a group of like-minded people to tailgate with and to motivate him through a tough workout.

“I don’t count birthdays as much anymore; I don’t care to,” Corwin says.

“But I’m still excited to go to work every day; I’m excited to go to the gym every day. A.nd as long as I keep that attitude, everything else falls into place.”

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IN THE KNOW

Auction Amplification Black and Gold Auctions Relocates, Offering More Space for Inventory

BY ZOLA HECK | PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON

F

rom unique décor items to auc-

sustainability through the reduce,

tion services, Black and Gold

reuse and rebuy mantra, Black

Auctions, LLC has served the

and Gold Auctions bills itself as

Columbia community for more than

not just an auction company, but a

a decade and is planning for the fu-

community-oriented venture that

ture with its recently upgraded space.

values the importance of preserving

Black and Gold moved to a

items and memories. “We are able

newly renovated warehouse in

to turn something into a memory for

Columbia on Nov. 1, going from

someone else,” Rau says.

a 6,500-square-foot space to a

From selling treasured heirlooms

14,000-square-foot, 2-acre lot at

to searching for unique finds, Rau

4801 I-70 Drive SW.

says customers will always find

Owner Adam Rau says they had so

something unexpected. “We sell

much inventory they needed more

things you can’t get anywhere else,”

room to thrive. “We are now able to

he says. “We have something for

really showcase our larger items; we

everybody.”

can display more items and take in more goods,” he says.

While Black and Gold Auctions has been open for more than a

The move to a newly renovated

decade, Rau has been the owner

warehouse in Columbia marks a

for the past two and a half years.

significant step toward offering

Black and Gold Auctions is open

an even better experience for

from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-

buyers and sellers. With a focus

Friday. For more information,

on reducing waste and promoting

visit blackandgoldauctions.com.

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Creating Cold Memories Find New Ways to Enjoy the Winter Season with the Whole Family

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER AND ZOLA HECK If your grandkids are like most, weekends and school snow closings are the highlight of the winter season.

Get into the spirit with some of these fun outdoor activities. After you’ve expended your energy outdoors, there's plenty of fun to be had indoors as well.

OUTDOOR WINTER FROLIC

TAKE A SNOWSHOE HIKE. Buy or borrow snowshoes for the family and go on a trek through one of Columbia’s many trails, including Bear Creek Trail, the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail and Shepard Park Trail. Take your compass.

But also tie brightly colored strips of fabric to tree branches to mark your path. Dress warm and keep track of time to prevent overtiring and frostbite. Look for animal tracks and

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burrows; identify trees by the bark and shape of their trunks; learn how to tell the time or direction by the position of the sun; and other nature and survival activities. For more information on Columbia’s trails, visit como.gov.

VISIT A ZOO. During the winter months, zoos often bring guest animals and offer special exhibits. Arctic and cold climate animals may be more active, and indoor exhibits

GRANDPARENTS

are easier to view because of smaller crowds. While Columbia doesn’t have its own zoo, residents can visit nearby areas, including the Saint Louis Zoo or the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.

Trail in Rocheport. For more information on local museums and galleries, visit como.gov.

BUILD AN IGLOO OR SNOW FORT. Choose a day when the snow is suitable for packing. Use a square or rectangular container for building snow forts, which are often found in toy departments. Be sure to stagger the blocks for support.

CREATE AN INDOOR SNOW FAMILY. Buy black and white clay from an arts and crafts supply. Roll snow people out of the white clay, and shape hats with the black. Make arms with tiny twigs, scarves from narrow fabric strips, eyes and buttons from whole pepper, and noses from broken, orange-colored toothpicks.

ENJOY A WINTER FEST. Look for winter events in Columbia, including the Columbia Comic & Toy Winter Show at the Columbia Mall Jan. 27-28 with video games, vendors cosplay, artists, comics and toys. Keep an eye on the Inside Columbia magazine community calendar for more winter events.

VIEW THE WINTER SKY. Visit a planetarium to see constellations and some of the brightest stars of the year.

The Columbia Public Schools Planetarium, which has been supported by the district and community for nearly 50 years, offers public shows throughout January and February for free, but a $5 donation is encouraged.

HAVE A SNOW-SCULPTING CONTEST and invite your neighbors to participate. Roll a snowball as large as you can.

Then fill buckets with snow and carefully dump them on top. Gently pack the snow and smooth it with your mittens.

Sculpt and shape your creation using small shovels and gardening tools. When your sculpture is complete, gently pack and smooth it with your hands again.

HOLD A WINTER MOVIE FEST. Invite friends over, rent a selection of movies and have everyone bring their pillows or beanbag chairs. Don't forget the buttery popcorn and hot chocolate.

MAKE AN ICE TREE. Instead of throwing out your holiday tree, turn it into a winter display. Stand it in your yard, turn the water hose on low, and spray upward and toward the trunk of the tree. As ice forms, continue spraying until you achieve your desired effect.

GO SLEDDING. If you have small hills in your backyard, use a trash bag for sliding down them. Better yet, head to some real hills with your toboggan or sled at Columbia’s official sled hill, Stephens Lake Park, or other spots around town, including Twin Lakes Recreation Area and Three Creeks Conservation Area. Keep safety rules in mind for safe wintery fun.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR BLUSTERY DAYS

HEAD TO A MUSEUM. Columbia has many art galleries and museums to visit during the winter, including Access Arts, Artlandish Gallery & Emporium and the Boone County History & Culture Center. But if you are looking to try something new, head to the Enns Entomology Museum, the Historic Costume Gallery at Stephens College or Art Off the

MAKE UP FUNNY SKITS with friends then put on a show for grandparents, parents and neighbors. Choose household products and create silly advertisements. Make up goofy songs or poems about each product and dress up for the part. Be sure to videotape the skits for hilarious family memories.

STRING A SNOWFLAKE STREAMER. Make snowflakes by folding white paper several times and then trimming different shapes around the edges. Open the snowflakes then string them on a piece of yarn and hang it across the room.

VISIT THE LIBRARY TO SNUGGLE UP FOR A RELAXING READ. The Columbia Public Library hosts events throughout the year for families. You can also take your family to try indoor gaming options or crafting areas, including Hexagon Alley and Wizards and Witches Arcade for more indoor family fun when the cold weather comes.

MAKE A WINTER-SAFETY TRIVIA GAME. Buy a pack of small index cards. Then write a question on each card related to winter safety with the answers written below. To play the game, take turns reading the questions while other players shout their answers. The first person with the correct answer scores a point.

BOOM MAGAZINE 87

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Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company is licensed nationwide. United of Omaha Life Insurance Company is licensed nationwide, except New York. United World Life Insurance Company is licensed nationwide except Connecticut, New York and the Virgin Islands. Companion Life Insurance Company, Hauppauge, NY 11788-2934, is licensed in New York.

Omaha Insurance Company is licensed in all states except: AL, CA, CO, ID, IL, LA, NC, NH, NV, NY, PR, RI, VI, VT and WI. Products not available in all states. Each underwriting company is solely responsible for its own contractual and financial obligations. Individual medical coverage available through Mutual of Omaha Marketing Corporation, and is underwritten by various insurers. Registered Representatives offer securities through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. a Registered Broker/Dealer. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisor representatives offer advisory services through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Advisory Firm.

Mutual of Omaha Advisors is a division of Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company.

456006

Inside Columbia

flavor DIPPED DELIGHTS

Want to make a perfect chocolate-covered strawberry? Pick strawberries with good stems to hold on to for dipping and don’t wash the strawberries before. Also, use a dipping dish that’s not too wide.

C O N T E N T S

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Eighth Street Espresso ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Prepping the Pan ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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A Foodie’s Falafel ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

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Frosty Fusion

flavor DINING OUT

The Community of a Cafe HUSBAND & WIFE TEAM OPEN NEW BUSINESS IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA.

BY JORDAN DURHAM · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

F

or Columbia natives and

from Hickman High School and earned

is famous for big festivals and full of

travelers alike, the city’s

a surgical technology certificate from the

Cuban and Latino cuisine, so we thought

thriving coffee scene allows

Columbia Area Career Center.

it was going to be the perfect name.”

any java junkie to find their

In 2018, Rafael and Itzel opened their

Combining the vibrant atmosphere of

concoction of choice when on the go.

first business together, Lola’s Bilingual

Latin culture and the Spanish translation

A love of traveling and the community

Daycare Center.

of the cafe’s actual street name in

brought the idea of a new cafe to longtime residents Rafael and Itzel Bobea.

Columbia was “brilliant, catchy and a great story” when anyone asks for the meaning

“We try to travel as much as time and

their second business. The location

behind the name. “We wanted to become

personal circumstances allow us,” Rafael

on 8th Street is perfect as the couple

a landmark,” Rafael says, “so when people

says, “so going to coffee shops is always a

wanted something distinctive for the

ask about the 8th Street in downtown

must-do during these travels. It had been

downtown scene and a space to create

Columbia, they know we are here!”

inspirational at the time that we decided

a cozy atmosphere to bring in diverse

Each visit to the cafe provides the

to start our coffee shop.”

flavors. Their appreciation of travel is

potential for a memorable experience,

Originally from the Dominican

initially apparent in the cafe’s name, La

whether it’s finding a new favorite food

Republic, Rafael came to Columbia in

Calle 8 Cafe, which took a few tries before

or drink offering — perhaps the dulce de

2011 with the idea of finishing his degree

becoming official.

leche latte, their signature drink, or their

in international business. Instead, he

“The Caribbean in me made me

ham and gouda emparedado — meeting

began working in sales at different large

remember this big boulevard/street in

someone new such as any one of their

companies in town. While Itzel was born

Miami, Florida — a state that we also like

smiling staff or simply soaking in the

in Anaheim, California, she graduated

to visit,” Rafael says. “Calle Ocho of Miami

vibrant and ebullient energy. Guests

Greta Gunderson (left) and Ava Gunderson (right) are the owners of Son of a Gun in downtown Columbia.

90

Five years later, the Bobeas have combined other collective passions into

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

flavor DINING OUT

should expect a space where anyone can

Until they sell out, the food options

me,” Rafael says. “It’s my way of bringing

meet for work, coffee dates, study sessions,

include an avocado chicken chipotle

people together over amazing coffee

community gatherings and more.

panini, ham and Swiss cheese croissant

and good vibes. I’m all about creating a

and freshly baked muffins.

comfortable community space that feels

If you are looking to add "fruit” to your diet, the cafe also offers multi-

Ultimately, community drives the

colored, tropical drink options, which

Bobeas. Opening a bilingual day care

can be found on their site under “Aguas

creates connection for younger children,

order online and pick up in the cafe. The

Tropicales.” These include the sour

and now opening a Latin-based cafe,

cafe, located at 214 S. 8th St., is open from

gummy agua tropical, strawberry passion

especially downtown, expands the

9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.

fruit, mango dragon fruit and peach

connection for the adult population.

to 3 p.m. Saturday. For more information,

mango tropical.

“La Calle 8 is more than just a cafe to

like a second home.”

Drink and food options are available to

visit lacalle8cafe.square.site.

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flavor FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

Sheet Happens

EASY DINNER RECIPE PROMISES TO BE A NEW FAMILY FAVORITE.

BY SARA FOUGERE · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

B

y the time you read this, our whirlwind of Christmas parties, work events and gatherings will be over for

another year, and I just want to let you all know how much fun we had seeing you, celebrating with you and, of course, feeding you! It’s always a lot of activity, and sometimes I feel like it goes by too fast, but I feel lucky, so lucky, to have you all in my life.

Truly, it’s such a joy to see you enjoy every bacon-wrapped date and chocolate raspberry brownie. In fact, it’s such a joy that I’m happy to let you all know that we’re returning to meal offerings here at our brand-new kitchen on the south side!

One of the meals people always ask about is what I call sheet pan dinners, and this month, I thought we’d celebrate by cooking this one together. It’s quick, nutritious, and I promise even picky eaters will go after these pork chops, roasted potatoes and green beans.

The secret is a little Parmesan, which crisps everything and adds that perfect saltiness you just can’t put your finger on.

Keep an eye out for our menus and stop by to pick up some of your favorites in to-go sizes.

Looking forward to feeding you all!

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INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

flavor FOUGERE'S FAVORITES

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Potatoes & Green Beans INGREDIENTS 4 boneless pork chops

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 pound baby potatoes cut in fourths 1 pound fresh green beans

1 teaspoon granulated garlic

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

²/₃ cup grated Parmesan

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment, foil or generously spray with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, combine oil, herbs, spices and Parmesan.

Place the pork chops on the baking sheet and top with about ¹/₃ of the mixture.

Add the potatoes and green beans and toss until well combined. Place the vegetables on the baking sheet around the pork chops.

Bake 20-25 minutes until pork is done and potatoes are tender.

A Winning Combination!

Call us today to see how you can take advantage of this winning combination from Shelter!

Clint Miller

Travis Miller

ClintMiller@ShelterInsurance.com

TMiller.6399@ShelterInsurance.com

Agent

Affiliate Agent

1408 I-70 Dr. SW, Ste. 105

Next to Olive Garden Restaurant - Columbia

573-443-7776 ®

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

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

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flavor COOKING WITH BROOK

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flavor COOKING WITH BROOK

Falling in Love with Falafel LEARN HOW TO MASTER THE ART OF CRISPY CREATIONS.

BY BROOK HARLAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

C

rispy deliciousness, drizzled

together, it is a gummy paste that fries up

it also adds another layer of contrast. The

with a tangy sauce; beyond

more dough balls than falafel goodness.

herbs, along with some of the parsley and

that I am not sure how to

Dried chickpeas soaked in cold water

cilantro stems can be added to the food

describe falafel. Chickpeas,

at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours

processor first. This allows them to puree

also known as garbanzo beans (no, I

makes a world of difference for the final

smoothly, and easily distribute through

don’t know the difference between a

product. They have a nice crisp exterior

the mixture.

bean and a pea), make up the delicious

and a crumbly, yet moist interior. The

falafel. OK, I had to look it up, and now

final grind of the product should look

I am even more confused. A chickpea/

slightly coarser than coffee grounds but

garbanzo bean is a legume, but not

finer than gravel.

just a legume; it is the edible seed of a legume, making it a pulse. I hope that

SPICES If possible, use whole coriander and cumin. It will add a much better punch of flavor to the dish. Another punch of

is the legume, but the pea inside the

ONIONS AND GARLIC

pod is a pulse. The soaked chickpeas

Onions, garlic, herbs and spices add life

are mixed with aromatic vegetables,

to the falafel. The chickpeas on their own

herbs and spices and fried. This makes

add texture and body, but the smells,

one of the most delicious savory dishes

taste and even the color come from all the

ever invented. When cooked properly,

other ingredients. Start with the onions,

the falafel has an insanely crisp exterior

garlic and herbs in the food processor. To

(chickpeas and chickpea flour are known

get an even distribution, you want them

for their extremely crisp fried texture),

to be fairly smooth. Grind the herbs and

SAUCE

as well as a moist and flavorful interior.

spices first, by themselves. If you have the

Sauce or other condiments can act like

This Middle Eastern dish can be served

chickpeas in as well, you could quickly

a binder with your falafel in your pita

alone, with a sauce, or stuffed into a

get overly pureed and it might become

bread. Something to help bring your

delicious pita bread with complementary

a gummy mess. Grind the chickpeas

pita, tomato and cucumbers all together.

accompaniments.

for a second, if there happens to be

Maybe a little feta, tahini, tzatziki sauce or

some herbs, garlic or onions left in the

maybe some hummus to meld everything

processor, it’s fine, you are going to mix

into one. While not mandatory, these are

them all anyway.

sometimes necessary for the full falafel

clears it up. If not, remember the pod

CHICKPEAS You may want to use canned chickpeas.

I always want to, but it does not work.

flavor can also be added by dry toasting the spices in a sauté pan. This helps bring out the flavor of the spice. Toast in a sauté pan for one to two minutes, just until you start to smell the aroma develop. Allow to cool, and then using a rocking motion, crush on a cutting board using the bottom of the cleaned sauté pan.

experience.

The canned chickpeas are already cooked

HERBS

and waterlogged, and if you add enough

Parsley and cilantro add a nice burst of

chickpea flour to get the mixture to hold

freshness and color; if you can find mint,

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95

flavor COOKING WITH BROOK

FALAFEL MAKES 16 TO 20 GOLF BALL-SIZED FALAFEL INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound chickpeas, soaked in water • 4 to 6 cloves garlic • 1 small onion, roughly chopped (half large onion) • 1 bunch of parsley (about 1 cup) • 1 bunch of cilantro (about 1 cup) • ½ cup mint leaves (optional) • 1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds, toasted and crushed • 1 teaspoon whole coriander seeds, toasted and crushed

• 1 small jalapeno • 2 to 3 tablespoons tahini • ½ teaspoon baking soda • ½ to 1 juice from whole lemon (1 to 2 ounces) • Salt and pepper as needed • Chickpea flour as needed (2 to 4 tablespoons) • Oil as needed • Tahini sauce - see recipe below

DIRECTIONS

Soak chickpeas in cold water for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature before use (water should be 4 to 5 inches above chickpeas).

Blend the garlic, onion, herbs, toasted and crushed spices, jalapeno and tahini to smooth. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, using your hand, press down the mixture and discard the excess liquid. Drain the chickpeas and add the soaked chickpeas to the food processor, and pulse several times until the mixture is less coarse than gravel, but more coarse than coffee grounds. Add the blended chickpeas to the herb mixture, then add in the lemon juice and baking soda, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly and fry a small test patty, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Form the mixture into golf ball-sized disks or spheres. Fry in oil at a temperature of 330 to 350 degrees for about 5 to 6 minutes, flipping or rolling about halfway through. They should be brown and crispy on the outside, and moist, but heated all the way through on the inside. Remove and rest on a rack or paper towel until ready to serve.

Make tahini sauce (see below), or tzatziki sauce, add tomatoes, cucumber, pickles or other desired accompaniments in a pita, or on a salad as desired and serve.

GO TO INSIDECOLUMBIA.NET FOR OTHER VARIATIONS.

TAHINI SAUCE DIPPING SAUCE

• 3 to 4 tablespoons tahini • 1 to 2 garlic cloves, pasted • 1 juice of a lemon

• 1 to 3 ounces of cold water • Pinch of cumin • Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS

Mix tahini, garlic paste and lemon juice in a bowl. It will emulsify, thickening the mixture. Depending on the type/brand of tahini you use, you may have to add a few tablespoons to three ounces, maybe more of water to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Adjust with cumin, salt and more lemon juice as needed.

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INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

flavor COCKTAIL

A Sip of Snowfall

ENJOY A TASTY TWIST ON THE TRADITIONAL.

BY CELINE PASTRANA · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

W

hile the holidays have passed, some might not be ready to let go of the spirit of the season.

For those who want to embrace winter and hold

on to the holiday spirit well into January, there are a few cocktail options. But if you’re not a fan of the typical peppermint or coffee drinks, those options become far slimmer.

That’s why I created the Jack Frost. It will transport you right back to the height of the holidays, while providing a delicious twist from the traditionally expected flavors.

Celine Pastrana is the lead bartender at On the Rocks.

Jack Frost INGREDIENTS

1 ounce blue curaçao

1 ounce Malibu coconut rum

Splash of pineapple juice

1 ounce RumChata

Sweetened coconut flakes

TO MAKE THE DRINK Combine all ingredients, then pour into a glass rimmed with sweetened coconut flakes and enjoy!

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

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Inside Columbia

views C O N T E N T S

100 Dueling DJs

∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

101 On The Town

∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

103 A New View

∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

104

Darkow Draws ∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙∙

105

The Final Word

PARKING PUZZLE

Have you ever been trying to find parking downtown only to notice several spots being taken up by delivery drivers? The District addressed the problem over the summer after an uptick in complaints, distributing a flyer requesting on-street parking to be saved for customers only. Have you noticed an improvement?

views DUELING DJS

insider DUELING DJS

Sensory Surprise

WHOSE SENSES CAN GUESS THE MYSTERY IN THE BOX? In each issue, on-air talents from different Zimmer Communications’ stations will take on a seemingly simple challenge to see who comes out on top. In this issue, Producer Hannah from 93.9 The Eagle and Andy from KTGR went head-to-head to see who can guess items the quickest only based on how they feel. Make sure to visit insidecolumbia.net to see a video of the whole challenge!

figure out what the item in the box is based on how it feels. After five rounds, the person who correctly guesses the most mystery items wins!

THE CONTENDERS Andy from KTGR and Producer Hannah from 93.9 The Eagle came into the competition

”

THE CHALLENGE Two DJs will place their hands in a box, unaware of the contents inside. The goal is to

with good spirits but still a bit concerned and nervous as they had no knowledge of the challenge.

then took the lead when he guessed the second item correctly. Then came the third round.

Hannah and Andy put their hands in the box, realizing this time the item was squishy. But before Hannah could guess, Andy, without a doubt, shouted out, “Play-Doh!” This put Andy in the lead, but unfortunately, it wouldn’t last long for him. In the fourth round, after making some very creative guesses on the sticky item, the minty scent started to creep out of the box, helping Hannah guess toothpaste before Andy had a chance. After another round, we needed a tiebreaker, but luckily, we were prepared. As the competitors touched the claw clips, Hannah knew it was in the bag. Before Andy could throw out a guess, Hannah shouted out the correct answer, ending the game and taking home first place.

100

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

"

-Producer Hannah

”

THE OUTCOME Both competitors started off strong, guessing the Sour Patch Kids within seconds. Andy

I am not going to lie, I thought that last one was going to be a tampon.

I’m glad it wasn’t … I blew a 3-1 lead; that’s how it goes sometimes.

"

-Andy

views ON THE TOWN

2023 Boone County History Makers Hall of Fame Gala The Boone County History and Culture Center held its 2023 Boone Front Row: Mary Ellen Lohmann, Gwen Struchtemeyer, Mendy Diel, Barbara Weaver, Patsy Ponder Dalton Back Row: Chris Campbell, Melanie Staloch, Monica Guerrant, Susan Hart

County History Makers Hall of Fame Gala on Oct. 27 in the Kimball Ballroom on the Stephens College campus. Guests had a chance to witness the prestigious inductions of Col. John Clark, The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri and the late Charles Morgenthaler into the distinguished ranks of the Boone County Hall of Fame, joining the esteemed company of over 70 exceptional members.

Date Oct. 27 John and Anne Clark

David Brown, Cindy Mustard, Karen Miller

Location Kimball Ballroom

Photos by L.G. Patterson

Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer

Dr. Bill Kinney and Bridgid Kinney

INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

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views ON THE TOWN

Taste of the Tigers Taste of the Tigers event was held at the Walsworth Family Columns Club at Memorial Stadium to raise money for The Food Bank of Central & Northeast Missouri.

Attendees tasted bites and sipped on drinks from mid-Missouri eateries, local breweries and area Nicole Blume and Eric Blume

wineries, all while enjoying the opportunity to bid for one-of-akind experiences through live and silent auctions.

Date Nov. 7

Location Walsworth Family Columns Club

Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com

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INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

Emelia Knarr, Penny Kuhns-Knarr, and Tim Knarr

Larry Ganong and Marilyn Coleman

Ann Merrifield and Don Merrifield

Ashley Camp and Alex Camp

Pete Buchert and Donna Buchert

Darlene Johnson, Gary Tatlow and Janet Crosby

views A NEW VIEW

A New View

BEING A PHOTOGRAPHER, I HAVE ACCESS TO SOME UNIQUE POINTS OF VIEW IN THE COMMUNITY. Assignment: Enjoying the District The Location: Downtown Columbia

“See a penny, pick it up, and all day long you’ll have good luck!”

W

hile enjoying a beautiful day downtown, I thought it was my lucky day while jaywalking across Cherry Street.

I looked down and saw a penny in the middle of the street. I know most people wouldn’t waste time to stop and bend over to pick up a penny.

It’s pretty much worthless, right?

I mean nickels, dimes and quarters are useful for parking meters. Pennies get you nothing.

I thought I could use a little bit of luck that day, so I reached for some hope.

This penny wasn’t going anywhere; it was wedged in a crack in the street, and I struggled with it until a couple of cars started honking at me.

I gave up.

No luck for me that day.

L.G. Patterson

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views DARKOW DRAWS

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INSIDE COLUMBIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

views THE FINAL WORD

Is CoMo Getting Buffaloed?

MAYOR’S PRIORITIES NEGLECT TOWN’S MOST PRESSING NEEDS.

BY FRED PARRY

T

his is our 30th year of publishing magazines in Columbia. For three decades, we’ve chronicled the good and bad times experienced as our small, sleepy college town has evolved into a tiny metropolis with all the perks — and all the troubles — of a much larger city. Through our magazines and events, we’ve done our best to make a good city look great while daring to lead some candid conversations about missed opportunities along the way.

I’ll get straight to the point: I’ve seen a lot of mayors come and go.

I should first state rather clearly that I like Columbia Mayor Barbara Buffaloe as a person. I first met her when she appeared as a regular guest on the daily radio show I co-hosted with Simon Rose for nearly eight years. Back then, she was the lone employee of the city of Columbia’s Office of Sustainability. It was her job to help us figure out what grade of plastics belonged in the city’s blue recycling bags. She also helped our listeners consider creative ways to repurpose their holiday gift wrap instead of sending it to the landfill. Sounds harmless enough, right?

Other than the unfortunate situation with her once donning a T-shirt that proclaimed “I’m The F**king Mayor,” Barbara Buffaloe has proven to be an altogether decent person. She is kind, compassionate and very smart.

Unfortunately, her priorities for leading this city are completely out of sync with its most pressing needs.

Though she didn’t create the crime problem, the solid waste catastrophe or the potentially crippling infrastructural issues, she’s doing very little to fix them. Some would argue that she’s made zero progress with any of these growing problems.

Let’s be honest, it’s a bad time to be involved in Columbia city government.

You know it’s bad when those who would normally be our most ardent civic cheerleaders describe the state of Columbia city government as a “dumpster fire.”

Speaking of dumpsters, it seems very little is going as it should. From trash collection woes to unhappy firefighters to a failing utilities infrastructure, things in City Hall are a hot mess right now. But instead of leading, Mayor Buffaloe is traveling.

We’re currently understaffed by 40 police officers and that alone makes it less safe to live in Columbia. To add insult to injury, our local cops are mad that not one penny of the more than $25 million in American Rescue Plan (ARPA) dollars spent by the city went toward policing, in spite of the current crisis. A proactive mayor would step forward and attempt to mitigate these problems.

Instead, Mayor Buffaloe is traveling.

It doesn’t matter if our city has a solid plan for dealing with the world’s climate crisis if citizens feel unsafe and underserved. In spite of all that, a quick check of her travel calendar has her spending a large portion of the last three months at climate conferences in Dubai and China. She also joined the Chamber of Commerce on a recent trip to Madison, Wisconsin, shortly after attending the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative in New York City.

To her credit, Mayor Buffaloe is trailblazing a path forward in the areas of sustainability and climate action for our city. You can see the proof of that in the unsightly “No Mow Zones” (aka pollinator habitat) along our city’s most heavily traveled thoroughfares. You will also be pleased to know that they no longer use

plastic utensils in the city manager’s office.

And, in case you haven’t noticed, our near-empty city buses are now running on electricity instead of those nasty fossil fuels that power the electric plants that eventually provide electric power for those same buses. I know it’s not perfect but it is apparently, what some would call progress.

Need more proof? The city’s Office of Sustainability where Buffaloe was once the sole employee now has a staff of six employees and an annual operating budget of more than $600,000. Progress, indeed.

Given our mayor’s strong interest in environmental and climate issues, it’s odd to me that the city of Columbia has recently become the target of a class action lawsuit over its failure to operate even the most basic recycling service for its citizens. I’m curious if the mayor mentions Columbia’s recycling woes in her speeches to foreign audiences. By all accounts, our nonexistent recycling system is an epic failure on the part of city leadership.

I’m willing to keep an open mind about our mayor. One more crisis might be all it takes to get her attention and make her realize that there’s more to running our city than her quixotic attempts at saving the planet. The planet, no doubt, needs saved, but not at the cost of neglecting what was once a world-class city.

We can do better. Let’s do it.

Fred Parry Founder & Publisher Emeritus fred@insidecolumbia.net

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ADVERTISING INDEX

98.3 The Dove..........................................................77

Las Margaritas ........................................................ 60-61

Affinity Office Furniture ........................................ 9

Marijuana Card Clinic ........................................... 65

Ai Painting Plus ....................................................... 68

Mathnasium of Columbia ..................................... 69

Automated Systems .............................................. 12

Mid America Bank ................................................. 39

Bank of MO .............................................................. 6

MO Vein Care ......................................................... 7

Broadway, A Doubletree by Hilton ..................... 39

Mutual of Omaha ................................................... 88

CC’s City Broiler ...................................................... 2

N.H. Scheppers Distributing ................................ 31

Central MO Foster Care & .................................... 77

Parks Amusement ..................................................22

Adoption Association Clint Miller Insurance Agency, Inc ...................... 93 Clip Joint .................................................................. 15 Connection Exchange ............................................20 Construction Engineering Solution......................64 Edward Jones - Ann M Echelmeier ..................... 40-41 Edward Jones - Gina Mauller ............................... 77 Emery Sapp & Sons ................................................ 8 Fleet Feet Columbia ............................................... 15 Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing ......... 4-5 Hemme Construction ............................................ 108 Joe Machens Ford Lincoln .................................... 3 Korte Tree Care ....................................................... 10

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Platinum Paws ......................................................... 21 Remax Boone Realty - Alice Leeper .................... 107 Rost Landscaping & Superior Gardens .............. 20 Rusty Drewing Chevrolet Buick Auto ................. 17 Sara Fougere Catering ........................................... 28 Shangri-La ................................................................ 70-71 State Farm Insurance - Phyllis Nichols .............. 19 SumnerOne ............................................................. 32 Supplement Superstores ...................................... 66-67 Terrace Retirement Community .......................... 74, 98 Will Garrett - MO Farm Bureau ........................... 62 Zimmer Communications.....................................75

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