Inside Columbia Magazine July/August 2023

Holy Cow!

Commerce Bank celebrates the 2023 William T. Kemper Fellowships for Teaching Excellence recipients, recognized for the pursuit of knowledge and progress. Each professor will be awarded $15,000 to be used at his or her own discretion. Commerce Bank is proud to salute the 2023 Kemper Fellows for their efforts to improve higher education at Mizzou.

(L-R) Christopher Josey, Associate Teaching Professor, Communication; College of Arts and Science · Lea Ann Lowery, Clinical Professor, Occupational Therapy; School of Health Professions · Lee Manion, Associate Professor, English; College of Arts and Science · S. David Mitchell, Director of Middleton Center for Race, Citizenship and Justice; Ruth L. Hulston Professor of Law, School of Law · Beth Whitaker, Assistant Teaching Professor, Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, College of Education and Human Development

Photo courtesy of the University of Missouri

Mercedes-Benz of Columbia

Rusty Drewing Chevrolet

Rusty Drewing Toyota

For Teens, Image Obsession is Not Self-Obsession

Columbia psychiatrist reflects on dangers of social media

By Brett Chamberlain

In the original Greek mythology, Narcissus was a man who, spurned by a rejected lover, was cursed by the god Nemesis and thus fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. There he sat at the water’s edge, for the rest of his days, basking in the reflection he loved so much and allowing himself to waste away. It is from his name that we derived the term narcissism.

Social media has lured many, especially teens, to fall in love with their virtual image. Just as Narcissus spent days admiring his reflection, adolescents spend hours each day crafting the perfect image of themselves online. From their carefully selected selfies masked by unrealistic filters to hide perceived flaws to the perfectly crafted bio’s and tweets that convey a particular set

of personal characteristics to others, the online personas of teens are not an extension of their personality but instead, a precise creation designed to represent how they wish to be perceived.

Adolescence is supposed to be a time of self-discovery, but instead has turned into an era of image creation. Discovery of our true selves happens through experience, challenges, and in-person interaction with others. Social media fools us into believing that we can short cut this process of discovery and instead forge an ideal image through brute force and then insist others adhere to this construction. Without the discovery of their true selves, teens are left vulnerable. In-person social interactions provoke social anxiety because the control

“The online personas of teens are not an extension of their personality but instead, a precise creation designed to represent how they wish to be perceived.” offered by social media over the perceptions of others is lost, leaving teens feeling exposed. Otherwise innocuous comments can lead to dramatic mood swings because a lack of a stable sense of self makes teens more susceptible to negative feedback – described by a term called interpersonal hypersensitivity. Teens sacrifice the process of discovery of their true selves in favor of a process of virtual image creation. All the while, their true selves waste away at the water’s edge.

Dr. Chamberlain is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Burrell Behavioral Health where he also serves as the director of medical education.

To see the data on the mental health toll our youth are experiencing, visit www.burrellcenter.com/report.

Melody Garnett Parry

1964-2023

Fun. Caring. Loving. Generous. Vivacious. Mentor. Leader. Friend.

These are just a few of the words that perfectly describe our late publisher, Melody Garnett Parry.

She was our guiding light and inspiration, always keeping us striving for excellence while making us laugh and dance because, as she believed, life should be fun.

The entire team at Inside Columbia and Zimmer Communications will miss Melody more than words can say. But we will keep her spirit alive with every smile, laugh and song.

"...sing us a song tonight Well, we're all in the mood for a Melody And you've got us feelin' alright."

Gold winner for Best Local TV Personality Emily Spain of KOMU embraces her country side at Fringe Western Wear, gold winner for Best Local Clothing Store.

70

Thank you to everyone who supported our annual fundraiser!

Special thanks to our sponsor

2023 Celebrities

Thank you to our emcees, Michele Curry and Doug Pugh, and our judges, Jerrell Jackson, Mike Lyman and Joni See. With gratitude to Mareck Center for Dance Board.

Classes forming at our school, Mareck Center for Dance.

Join us for our Fall session starting August 21st! Classes are open to students ages 3+ and registration is open July 13th.

Experience the excellence of our non-profit ballet school, led by professional company members. Register online today at mareckcenterfordance.org/school.

Nominations open for 2024

Dancing with Missouri Stars!

Nominate yourself or someone you know today.

mareckcenterfordance.org/events/ dancing-with-the-missouri-stars/

ENCOUNTERS

Dancing Through Wonderland

A Novel Born from Trauma

Can’t Get Enough Country

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Learning to Make a Healthy Lemon Treat

ROBINSON’S RAMBLINGS

Remembering Publisher Melody Parry

From Young Love to Wedding Bells

ULTIMATE WATCHLIST

Songs for an Afternoon Stroll

DINING OUT

New Spot Serves Delightful Delectables

FOUGERE’S FAVORITES

Learn to Make a Savory Summer Snack

128

from the editor MADELEINE LEROUX

The Best of the Best

CELEBRATING THOSE WHO MAKE COLUMBIA TRULY SPECIAL.

Is there anything better than a really good margarita on a hot summer day? Probably. But it definitely hits the spot and leads to one of those pure relaxed moments where you have to just close your eyes for a moment to take it all in.

At least for me.

In mid-Missouri, there’s quite a few spots where you can have such a moment, but none compares to Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, which is likely why the business was awarded gold for Best Margarita in this year’s Best of Columbia.

That’s right — it’s that time of year, our favorite time, as we celebrate the very best of Columbia in a wide variety of categories, from barbecue to dentist to nonprofit. Not only is the list of winners, which starts on page 70, a handy guide for natives and newcomers alike, it’s a great testament to and celebration of the many small businesses and people who make Columbia special.

Communities like ours are constantly made better by the people and groups who choose to invest here, from starting businesses to donating time and effort to keep Columbia thriving. And I love that part of our role at Inside Columbia deserving people who might not otherwise get them.

And in the vein of celebrating the very best of Columbia, I must take a moment to honor the late Melody Garnett Parry, who we tragically lost in May.

Melody was more than the very best publisher we could ever ask for — she was one of the very best people you could ever know. In joining the team at Inside Columbia willing to help and support while teaching and guiding. Her positive attitude and vibrant spirit always managed to lift my spirits and make me smile, no matter what else was happening in my life.

With each issue of continuing to strive for the same level of excellence that she embodied every day. And this particular Best of Columbia issue is dedicated to her memory, as the best publisher and friend we could have ever wanted.

because you chose what you love. The bank of never working a day

Your business is your passion. Sure, there are days that aren’t as great as others, but you keep pushing forward. You deserve a bank that backs your passion – one that asks “What’s next?” instead of “What for?” Our bankers are here to do our part to make your dream a reality. Whether you’re just getting started or if you want to take it to the next level, we’re the bank of making it happen. We’re The Bank of Missouri.

Let’s get started with a banker near you.

Inside Columbia Staff

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Carla Leible carla@mailzimmer.com

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Fred Parry fred@mailzimmer.com

PUBLISHER Melody Parry

EDITOR

Madeleine Leroux mleroux@mailzimmer.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Zola Crowder zcrowder@mailzimmer.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Robinson, John Darkow, Sara Fougere, Brook Harlan, Kimber Dean, Berrick Wahby

ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimmer.com

PHOTO EDITOR L.G. Patterson lg@mailzimmer.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Madelyn Jones mjones@mailzimmer.com

what’s online...

Enjoy

Inside Columbia Staff

ADVERTISING COORDINATORS

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MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES

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OFFICE MANAGER

Becky James rjames@mailzimmer.com

DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE

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INSIDE COLUMBIA MAGAZINE Zimmer Strategic Communications 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 InsideColumbia.net

Office: 573-875-1099

#INSIDECOLUMBIA

We’ve put together a list of 23 things to do in Columbia in summer ‘23 and we want to see you enjoying all the fun in the sun! Check out the full list on pages 90-97, pick your favorite, snap a picture and post it on Instagram using #insidecolumbia by July 31. We’ll pick from the submissions and award the winner a FREE one-year subscription to Inside Columbia!

Inside Columbia is published by Zimmer Strategic Communications, 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., Suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201, 573-875-1099.

Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2023. 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.

Details

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscription rate is $15 for 1 year. 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.

ADVERTISING

Inside Columbia is the best way to reach Columbia’s upscale consumers. Information about advertising is available online at InsideColumbia.net or by calling 573-875-1099.

NEWS RELEASES & EVENT NOTICES

Contact editor at 573-875-1099, or email mleroux@mailzimmer.com.

ON THE TOWN

Send your photos with the event description and subject names for captions to mleroux@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 mleroux@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 Madeleine Leroux at 573-875-1099 or email mleroux@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 Madeleine Leroux at 573-875-1099 or email mleroux@mailzimmer.com .

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE & TOWING

We offer a wide variety of services; local and long distance towing, jump starts, unlocks, tire services, equipment hauling, motorcycle towing, toolbox relocations and more! Never hurts to call and ask, whatever you may need towed, hauled, relocated we are always willing to help!

ACCIDENT RECOVERY

If your vehicle has been in an accident, stay calm and give us a call. We can help recover the vehicle from any scene or roadside and get you the help you need. Whether it be a total loss or something repairable we will get your vehicle where it needs to go.

PARKING LOT MANAGEMENT

Do you have parking problems at your business, rental property etc?

We provide parking enforcement at no cost to the land owner, including posted "private parking" signs.

Why is parking lot enforcement important?

Some businesses have limited parking spots for their customers, if they are constantly full your clients have no where to park, let us help alleviate parking issues so they stop abusing your spots!

Often times stolen or junk vehicles are dumped around town in large parking lots so they go unnoticed, it is important to monitor your lots to help recover stolen vehicles or just haul off the junkers that are eye sores!

FIRE IN THE SKY

For the second year in a row, the city of Columbia will host its annual Fourth of July Fire in the Sky celebration at Stephens Lake Park. One of the reasons the city selected that spot is because the elevation allows for the display to be seen from multiple areas in the city. Where is your favorite spot to catch the annual show? To see a full map of the park and what areas are closed during the fireworks display, visit bit.ly/CoMoFireworks2023.

40 Dream Dance

45 Shock to Inspiration

49 Celebrating Country

51 Calendar

For the Love of Dance

COLUMBIA NATIVE BUILDS A PROFESSION OUT OF HER PASSION.

BY ZOLA CROWDER · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

It’s not often that a dream comes from an early injury. But that’s exactly what happened with Kendall Lademann, who broke her femur at age 3 and started dancing as a form of physical therapy. “We weren’t really sure if it would stick, but it did and I just fell in love with it,” Lademann says.

While Lademann was born in Columbia, she spent most of her childhood in North Carolina before moving back to the area in 2015 for high school. “I prefer Columbia, because my family is here,” she says. But when things took a turn in 2020 and the world began to shut down due to the pandemic, Lademann took the opportunity to advance her professional career in Columbia after attending the University of Missouri Kansas City for one year.

“I talked to Karen Mareck Grundy (artistic/executive director for Mareck Center for Dance) about taking classes with the company, and then fell in love with the style and really enjoyed doing contemporary work more than I thought I would,” Lademann says. The love for contemporary dance came as a bit of a surprise for Lademann since “for most of my training, I always said I wanted to be a classical ballet dancer.”

The Mareck Center for Dance, formerly known as the Missouri Contemporary Ballet, launched in 2006 and was founded by Grundy. The multilevel operation located in the Balsamo Warehouse on Orr Street not only offers classes, but has a professional company with opportunities for apprenticeships and training, along with outreach programs and the ability to get involved with the nonprofit side.

That’s how Lademann got involved, starting as a trainee before transitioning to an apprentice, then an associate performer who quickly was promoted to the full company. Lademann then took on the responsibility of DanceAbility coordinator. DanceAbility gives dancers with different abilities, ages 4 and up, an opportunity to learn and explore the world of dance.

“It’s honestly one of my favorite parts of my job,” she says. “They are all just fantastic and just really excited to be in the studio and get to perform.”

While Lademann loves running DanceAbility, performing is still her passion. In June, Lademann got to live her dream as the lead in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” saying the process was something she really enjoyed, from the rehearsals to the performance itself.

And this wasn’t Lademann’s first rodeo with that particular story either. It was her third performance in the show in her lifetime, but her first as a professional and the lead. “Last time I was in the show, I played a lobster, so to go from a lobster to now leading the show is really cool,” she says. “Being 21 and already getting to perform as Alice is huge to me.”

While working on a show like “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” is something she really enjoys, it also comes with many challenges. Dancers must not only focus on the choreography but the acting as well. “I am very much introverted, so I really have to work on not doing small acting in the studio because then it won’t be where it needs to be on stage,” she says. “I like to focus more on the technicality of all the dancing so then to have to think about my face is an added difficulty.”

Lademann says the mental aspect of dancing is the most difficult to overcome; in fact, it’s still something she works on in her professional career. “It’s just as much a mental game as it is a physical game, because there are certain steps or sequences that I struggle with and are a mental hurdle,” she says. But Lademann says Grundy is

very aware of the mental hurdles and works with company members to find solutions to be successful.

In addition to local and regional performances, the professional company of Mareck Dance has performed on tour nationally and internationally, and hosts Dancing with Missouri Stars every year, where Mareck dancers are paired with local celebrities in a mid-Missouri edition of the popular TV show. “It’s really fun,” Lademann says. “I hope to dance it next year.”

As for the future, Lademann says she hopes to continue to grow as a dancer, performer and teacher. “I love being here and have already had some incredible opportunities as a dancer with the company,” she says. “I can’t

wait to see where it goes.”

For more information on Mareck Center for Dance, to make a donation,

sign up for a class or see what performances are coming up, visit mareckcenterfordance.org.

ALL YOUR EYE CARE AND EYEWEAR IN ONE PLACE

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Scan here to visit our website and learn more about why we're Columbia's Best Place to get Eye Care!

Healing Through Storytelling

LOCAL TEACHER, AUTHOR PENS FICTION INSPIRED BY HUSBAND’S STROKE.

BY MADELEINE LEROUX · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

When a loved one is suddenly hit with a medical crisis, it can upend everything. But for local author Elaine Strawn, such a crisis also helped inspire a new novel.

Strawn’s latest novel, Strokewaves, was inspired by her own experience after her husband suffered a catastrophic stroke two years ago, shaking their lives to the core.

“It was very much like an earthquake,” Strawn says.

Sleepless nights and constant worries about insurance, family matters and

work-related concerns became the norm. The earthquake had caused shockwaves that reverberated through their lives and Strawn turned to her creative outlet in order to find solace. Using her own experience to help craft the backbone of the completely fictional tale, Strawn began to create the characters and narrative of Strokewaves

“I use my characters as a distraction,” she says.

Beginning in 1999, Strokewaves follows Katherine and Thomas, two seniors at the University of Missouri. One is a journalism student, and the

other is an engineering student. After meeting at Murry’s, the couple embarks on a journey through graduation and into the challenges of the real world, with Katherine striving to establish a successful career while pursuing her dream of becoming a recognized writer.

Their path eventually leads them away from Columbia and, as the story unfolds, both are revealed to have a bit of a dark past. After 10 years have passed, Thomas is accused of embezzlement, with a staggering sum of $1 million missing from an engineering project. The mystery deepens, and just as the

truth starts to emerge, Thomas suffers a stroke, which adds an unexpected twist to the tale.

As readers get immersed in the story, locals should begin to notice some familiar spots and descriptions, as Strawn wanted to ensure the novel gave an authentic feeling of being in Columbia, working to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the community.

“I really want it to feel authentic,” she says of the novel.

Strawn says she worked to skillfully

weave together elements of mystery, romance and history in order to draw readers into the web of intrigue and keep them captivated and emotionally invested in not just the story, but the characters themselves. In fact, Strawn is already planning future novels that will connect back to Strokewaves, using the book’s epilogue to introduce a character who will become central in the next book, she says.

“I want to create characters that people get attached to,” Strawn says.

Strawn is incredibly passionate about storytelling, and that passion has extended beyond her own work. (She has previously written three other books, from a guide for new teachers to the story of her grandparents in 1920s New York. “I’m not good at staying in my lane,” she says.) Aside from her full-time job as a teacher with Columbia Public Schools, Strawn founded Off & Running Publications in 2019 as a non-traditional publishing company that supports and nurtures aspiring authors. Drawing from her own experience of having a mentor guide her through the self-publishing process, Strawn says she wanted to provide a platform that allowed writers to share their stories. The company's mission is to help authors achieve their dreams, without taking ownership of their work.

“We don’t want to own our clients’ books,” Strawn says. “We just want to help people get started. We give them the push, the support and, sometimes, love.”

The company name harkens back to Strawn’s own roots, as her grandfather was Bill Corum, journalist, sports announcer and former president of Churchill Downs who is credited with coining the phrase “Run for the Roses” to describe the Kentucky Derby. Corum also published an autobiography called Off and Running in 1959.

With the release of Strokewaves, Strawn says she hopes readers will not only get immersed in the story, but that they will leave the book having learned something about the warning signs for strokes. “People need to take care of themselves,” Strawn says. “I want to use (Strokewaves) as a platform. Take your health seriously.”

To purchase a copy of Strokewaves or learn more about Off & Running Publications, visit offandrunningpublications.com or email Strawn at strawnelaine@gmail.com

Calling Country Fans

LAKESIDE ASHLAND TO HOST FIRST MUSIC FESTIVAL AT NEW VENUE.

BY ZOLA CROWDER

Get ready to let your inner cowboy shine at Lakeside Ashland’s very first music festival.

The Midwest Country Fest is from 3-10 p.m. Aug. 19-20 and will showcase 10 artists with Granger Smith, featuring Earl Dibbles Jr., as the headliner. Nic Parks, owner of Lakeside Ashland, says the venue was actually built for concerts and festivals, not just outdoor movie nights, which have been a popular use of the new facility. “The lawn is built to have standing room for 10,000 people,” he says. “And we think country music is a really good fit.”

This family-friendly festival will not only have live country music, but there also will be a playground, mechanical bull, vendors, draft beer trailers, frozen slushies and many more activities available to make the event truly memorable. “Our restaurant can serve up to 1,000 people and we serve burgers, pizza, fried food and more,” Parks says. “We estimate about 3,000 people at the festival, so we may invite a few food trucks to serve in addition to our food to accommodate the large crowd.”

No outside food or drink will be allowed during the festival.

Along with the activities, attending the festival could be the last chance to see Granger Smith live on stage since “this is his farewell tour,” Parks says. Smith announced in spring his plans to step away from country music in order to pursue ministry.

While dancing will be heartily encouraged, there are sure to be times when you need a rest, so Lakeside encourages bringing chairs or a blanket as there is no actual seating available at the venue.

For folks driving in, there will be a limited opportunity to buy parking passes for the festival, but there also will be several shuttle options available.

You can buy a one or two-day pass for the event, but prices do vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. “The musicians will perform from 3-10 p.m. both days,” Parks says.

On Aug. 19, there will be five artists performing, including headliner Granger Smith featuring Earl Dibbles Jr., Travis Denning, Avery Anna, David Morris and Braxton Keith. On Aug. 20, enjoy Tenille Arts, Kidd G, Bryan Martin, Sean

Stemaly and Matt Jordan.

So, grab your boots, hat and anything else to get you in a country mood, and get ready to get down in the dirt and dance until you just can’t anymore!

WHAT Midwest Country Fest

WHERE Lakeside Ashland

WHEN Aug. 19-20

COST

$19.99-$199.99

WEBSITE

Lakesideashland.com

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.

July

JULY 14

MOVIES IN THE PARK: “FINDING NEMO”

COSMO PARK

JULY 2

RED, WHITE & BLUES AT ROSE PARK ROSE PARK

Celebrate Fourth of July early with Rose Music Hall presenting blues in the park at Red, White & Blues. Listen to The Daves, Fox Deluxe and Buddha Blue at the outdoor concert venue. There will also be beer, tacos, yard games and, of course, music under the stars.

6:30 p.m.; $8-$10; rosemusichall.com

JULY 4

FIRE IN THE SKY STEPHENS LAKE PARK

The city of Columbia’s 71st annual Fourth of July Fire in the Sky celebration is set to take place at Stephens Lake Park with music, activities, food trucks and more followed by fireworks at 9:15 p.m. in the eastern portion of the park. Most activities will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the western side of the park, while kids’ activities and live entertainment will take place in the southwestern portion of the park. Additional entertainment at the park amphitheater will take place from 6-9 p.m. Lawn chairs or blankets are encouraged for seating.

6 p.m.; free; como.gov/parks-and-recreation/ special-events/4th-july-fire-sky

Watch a classic movie with your family at Cosmo Park this summer as Columbia Parks and Recreation presents “ Finding Nemo .” Make sure to bring a blanket or lawn chair to watch the film. Concessions and food trucks will be on site.

8:45 p.m.; free; como.gov/parks-and-recreation/ special-events/movies-in-the-park

JULY 18-22

BOONE COUNTY FAIR

BOONE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

The Boone County Fair is back this year with all kinds of activities planned for the multiple day event. Enjoy a pedal tractor pull, the Boone County Fair Pageant, a petting zoo, the bounce house zone, the Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean show, live music, carnival rides and games, face painting, circus and more.

7 a.m.-9 p.m.; $10-$35; theboonecountyfair.com

JULY 21

EMO NIGHT BROOKLYN

THE BLUE NOTE

If you’re a fan of emo and pop-punk jams, The Blue Note is inviting you to Emo Night Brooklyn.

Listen to a late-night DJ-based dance party playing all your favorite emo and punk artist and bands. Get ready to sing, mosh and dance all night long.

9 p.m.; $15-$25; thebluenote.com

JULY 21-23, 28-30

SHOW-ME STATE GAMES

THROUGHOUT COLUMBIA

The Show-Me-State Games are taking place across Columbia, from local high schools to city parks. Compete in your favorite sport from archery, fencing and martial arts, to soccer, track and field, tennis and more. Times vary; prices vary; smsg.org

JULY 22

THE KAY BROTHERS’ SUMMER FISH FRY

ROSE MUSIC HALL

The annual Kay Brothers’ Summer Fish Fry with special guests Molly Healey and Emma Burney will bring all your favorite things together including songs about critters, a critter dinner, beer and a good time. Enjoy beer from Logboat Brewing Co. and tasty fried food from Gator Wagon, including fried catfish, gator tail, swamp platter, Cajun tacos, hushpuppies, taters and more.

6 p.m.; $10-$12; rosemusichall.com

JULY 29

COUNTDOWN TO KICKOFF 2023

MIDWAY GOLF & GAMES

Get ready for the next season of Tigers football while supporting a local nonprofit at the annual Countdown to Kickoff. Benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri and presented by Columbia Safety & Supply, enjoy an evening with Coach Eliah Drinkwitz, a live auction and hors d’oeuvres and beverages. The event also provides an opportunity to check out Midway Golf & Games’ latest expansion with the new TopTracer facility and 44 Tavern restaurant.

5:30 p.m.; $100-$150; bigsofcentralmo.org

JULY 31

PEACH PIT: A SUMMERFEST CONCERT EVENT

ROSE MUSIC HALL

Celebrate summer with live music, ice cold beer and a party on Ninth Street in downtown Columbia with indie pop band Peach Pit and special guest Babe Corner. The doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m. All ages are welcome. 8 p.m.; $25-$28; rosemusichall.com

August

AUG. 5

GUSTER: HELLO MISTER SUN TOUR: A SUMMERFEST CONCERT EVENT

ROSE PARK

Continue enjoying the Summerfest concert series with alternative rock band Guster as a part of the Hello Mister Sun Tour. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show starting at 7 p.m. 7 p.m.; $31-$36; rosemusichall.com

AUG. 11

MOVIES IN THE PARK: “MINIONS: RISE OF GRU”

COSMO PARK

Watch as young Gru tries to join a group of supervillains called the Vicious 6 in “ Minions: Rise of Gru ,” as a part of Movies in the Park presented by Columbia Parks and Recreation. Don’t forget to bring a blanket or lawn chair to watch the screening under the stars. Concessions and food trucks will be on site.

8:30 p.m.; free; como.gov/parks-andrecreation/special-events/movies-in-the-park

AUG. 12

FOURTUNE FEST IV

ROSE PARK

Fortune Fest is back! This celebration of Columbia’s innovative and supportive community features White Reaper, Dos Santos, Madisen Ward, Rochara Knight and the Honey Doves, Reggie Pearl and DJ Seoul Train. Enjoy cold beer, craft vendors from around the state, a carnival and dancing.

3 p.m.; $15-$25; rosemusichall.com

AUG. 17

COOPER ALAN

THE BLUE NOTE

View this up-and-coming country music star, originally from Winston Salem, North Carolina, at The Blue Note in downtown Columbia. This stop in Columbia is one of 21 shows planned for this year. Doors open at 7 p.m. 8 p.m.; $20-$40; thebluenote.com

AUG. 26

KALEIDOSPOKE

MKT TRAIL/FLAT BRANCH PARK/TWIN LAKES RECREATION AREA

Put light on your bike and get ready to glow on the MKT Trail at the Kaleidospoke event. This family-friendly night ride is approximately eight miles from Flat Branch Park to Twin Lakes Recreation Area and back. Riders will also get s’mores and entertainment at a private party before returning. Registration is required. 7-10:30p.m.; $18; parks.como.gov

JUNE 25

COLUMBIA AGRICULTURE PARK FIELD DAY

COLUMBIA CENTER FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE

Enjoy a day of workshops, speakers and tours where you get to learn how to up your smallscale farming skills and even take part in a used tool exchange.

10 a.m.-3 p.m.; free; columbiaurbanag.org

58 Fit and Fresh

63 Memories of Melody

65 Hometown Love

66 Walk to the Beat

SUNSCREEN SCIENCE

Summer is a great time to head outdoors and enjoy some time by the pool or at the beach. But don’t forget to grab the sunscreen! There’s a wide range of SPF available, but dermatologists actually recommend sticking to an SPF of around 30, as that will provide nearly 98% coverage. Anything higher really will only provide a small fraction of protection improvement at a much higher price. But make sure to grab those labeled “broad spectrum,” as that will screen both UVA and UVB rays.

Grab A Taste of Summer

TRY THIS LEMON CHEESECAKE FOR A VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE TREAT.

BY KIMBER DEAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

Summertime desserts bring such nostalgia for me. From playing in the yard as a child with popsicles and sharing a treat from the ice cream truck with friends to the summer holidays with all the red, white and blue tarts, parfaits, pastries and cakes.

Then there is citrus galore! Lemon bars, orange cakes, lemon cheesecake and key lime pies; summer’s flavorful variety of fruits can make any dessert delicious and beautifully bright.

It’s the time of year when local farmers have a variety of fruit, especially strawberries. I love using the organic strawberries in my jams, ice creams, berry tarts, parfaits and for a strawberry sauce on my cheesecakes.

Farmers normally pick their produce on the day of their deliveries, which means that the strawberries are the most nutrient dense they can be for their customers. Produce has the most nutrients 24-48 hours after they have been harvested. The best benefit is the flavor of an organic local strawberry. They are juicy, sweet and bright just what you need to liven up any fruit dish.

Being in mid-Missouri, we also are very lucky to have an abundant supply of local organic elderberries. I have been making elderberry syrup since moving to Missouri

nine years ago, and love using local farms, like K & D Farm. Raw elderberries are toxic, so I always use elderberry syrup for using them in my desserts. Once I have the cooked and cooled elderberry syrup, I use it in popsicles, berry sauces, lattes and ice creams.

Ice cream is such a universal treat. There are hundreds of flavors, and it is a great way to use fruit that is about to go bad in the pantry. (Plus, ice cream machines are relatively inexpensive.) We make all of our ice cream at my house, and there are so many ways to make it your own. I like to use maple syrup, honey and coconut sugar for my sweeteners. We have made ice cream and sorbets with cantaloupe, honeydew, strawberries, bananas, elderberries and orange cream. We like to rotate our “cream” with different nuts and seed milks for different nutrients and to keep it plant based. You can keep the texture of your ice cream smooth or chunky, depending on your preference. I just love how versatile it is to make ice cream at home!

Citrus is another summertime flavor that I just love to use in my desserts. Lemon is a common citrus that can be

used in bars, quick breads, custards, pies and so much more! My lemon cheesecake and berry tart recipes from Happy Food Cookbook are fan favorites, especially in the summer, when the ingredients are prevalent and less expensive. I have made hundreds of these for my customers at Nourish Cafe & Market as the former chef and co-founder, and now as the chef and owner of Happy Food Catering. Both desserts are vegan and free of gluten, dairy, soy, corn, refined

sugar, hydrogenated oils and artificial ingredients. Not only are these desserts seasonal and scrumptious, but they are also nutritious for your body!

I have shared my lemon cheesecake recipe with you to enjoy anytime this summer for a delicious taste of seasonal citrus.

Kimber Dean is the founder of Happiness Drinks, and the author of Happy Food and Happy Baking and Desserts. She is trained in both culinary arts and personal nutrition.

LEMON CHEESECAKE

CRUST:

1 ¹/₂ cups walnuts

¹/₂ cup dates, pitted (about 8 dates)

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 tablespoon almond flour

FILLING

3 cups cashews, raw

¹/₄ cup maple syrup

¹/₄ cup lemon juice

1 lemon, zested

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

¹/₂ cup coconut oil, melted

DIRECTIONS:

1. Soak walnuts and dates in water for two to 24 hours. Drain and rinse before use.

2. Soak cashews in water for two to 24 hours. Drain and rinse before use.

3. Grease an 8-inch springform pan. Put all crust ingredients (walnuts, dates, maple syrup and almond flour) in a food processor and blend until smooth. Press the crust onto the bottom of the greased pan. Place into the freezer while making the filling.

4. Place cashews into clean food processor with maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla and coconut oil. Blend until smooth, about two to three minutes.

5. Remove crust from the freezer. Pour and spread the filling into the crust. Wrap airtight and refrigerate for two hours before serving.

Sweet Melody

A LEGACY THAT HITS ALL THE RIGHT NOTES.

Good fences. Good neighbors.

Melody and Fred Parry have been our neighbors for four decades. We first became neighbors when they moved into a house across the street from my wife and I. Immediately, Melody arranged to build a white picket fence. I don't think she did it to keep us out. Rather, it was an incarnation of the idyllic “little house with a white picket fence.”

She came by that honestly, having grown up playing with her sisters Christy and Leanne, and brother Scott at the Garnett Farm.

Yes, a white fence graces that farm, bordering a red brick home built in the 1880s. The farmhouse perches above the outskirts of tiny Marion, a once-bustling Missouri River town in Cole County, which very nearly became the site of the Missouri state capitol.

Melody’s father, Rodney Garnett, worked that farm when he was growing up. Among his chores was the daily milking of their herd of Holstein cows. He would deliver the milk to Landwehr Dairy, a few miles south in Jefferson City.

The old red brick house is a beauty with Georgian Revival and Italianate influences. It was built on the site of the original 1821 home, and a rear wing

BY JOHN DRAKE ROBINSON

survives. The home incorporates bricks recycled from the original structure and is the centerpiece to the Garnett Farm Historic District.

So, it was no surprise when Melody and Fred, and their newborn son Max, moved away from us to a beautiful

L.G. PATTERSON

historic red brick property here in Columbia. But we were still neighbors. As the crow flies, our homes are only a block apart.

We continued to see Melody around the neighborhood as she and Fred raised their two sons. Sometimes, I would run

· PHOTO BY

into Melody walking the dog with her sister, Christy. Melody was always cheerful, even when facing adversity.

Family was always important to Melody. And pets. Years ago, our beloved Yorkie — home alone with our teenage daughter, Christy — suffered a seizure. Desperate for help, Christy ran out of the house with Bonky in her arms, and the Parrys jumped into action. Fred drove Christy and Bonky to the vet and stayed with them through the entire ordeal. Although Bonky did not survive the seizure, the Parrys had been supportive in our time of need.

Support. It’s a recurring theme in Melody Parry's life. Her legacy is assured as the founder of the Women's Health Care Alliance, and she served on several association boards, including True North of Columbia. Hers was a familiar voice on KFRU and KPLA as host of “The Woman Show.” Oh, and she cofounded 15 awardwinning magazines. But she still found time to have fun, whether it was hiking the Grand Canyon, running the Chicago Marathon or supporting her sons Max and Nick.

Melody and I followed similar pursuits: both graduates of Jefferson City Senior High School and the University of Missouri School of Journalism. For nearly three decades, I’ve contributed to several Parry Publishing magazines. Even though Fred and I come from opposite sides of the political spectrum, our friendship prevails. Indeed, the Parrys have always been supportive of my journalism career. To wit, this is my 160th column for Inside Columbia magazine.

And the saddest.

Over the years, I’ve had a hundred editors, none more astute and efficient as you, Melody Parry. More important, as you made a positive difference in the world, you took the time to appreciate the beauty of a good fence.

Rest well, good neighbor.

John Drake Robinson is a former director of the Missouri Division of Tourism. Read more of John's rants at johndrakerobinson.com/blog.

From Rock Bridge with Love

HOMETOWN COUPLE GOES FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO MARRIAGE.

BY MADELEINE LEROUX

IHannah Harper and Graham

Ratermann both attended Rock Bridge High School and began a long-distance relationship as they headed off to college. That relationship not only lasted, but came out stronger than ever, as Hannah and Graham celebrated their love by getting married Oct. 8, 2022, at the Columbia Country Club.

The elegant ceremony brought together the couple’s friends from Rock Bridge with all the new friends made in college for a spectacularly fun evening. After all, it was a celebration. Not just of

but of the lives of some of those lost before the wedding.

Unfortunately, Hannah had lost her father earlier that year. Then, she lost her uncle and an aunt. The losses meant some traditions had to change, Hannah says, as she was walked down the aisle by her brother, Luke, but it also offered a new opportunity to honor those loved ones. “The day was filled with love and support from family and friends enjoying being together,” Hannah says.

One of the highlights of the evening for Hannah was dancing with her mother to

” by Stevie Wonder, a song that had been sung and played for Hannah as she grew up. Then, the tune changed to “Dancing Queen” by ABBA and Hannah and her mother were joined by all the important women in Hannah’s life.

“It was so special making that moment filled with love and not sadness for what had been lost,” she says.

To submit your wedding for consideration, send information and photos to mleroux@insidecolumbia.net. Include your and your spouse's names, occupations, wedding date, location and your photographer's name.

Photo by SilverBox Photographers

Hannah Harper and Graham Ratermann were married Oct. 8, 2022, at the Columbia Country Club.

Stroller Songs

5 SONGS FOR YOUR NEXT WALK AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD.

BY LIZ

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, Liz from Clear99 shared her ultimate playlist for pushing a stroller around the neighborhood. Scan the QR code on this page to hear the full list. Enjoy!

It’s that time of year again where I try to get outside as much as possible. This summer, I’ll be pushing a stroller on my daily walks. I always listen to music on both my walks and my runs, but my walking playlist is very different from my running one. For walking, I look for songs with moderate tempos, not too fast or too slow — just right! My playlists typically consist of more current songs, with a good mix of Top 40 and country. Here are the songs I’m listening to right now:

“One Day Tonight” — Noah Thompson

This song is absolutely adorable! While it’s on the slower side, the storytelling completely consumes me and I find myself paying more attention to the lyrics than walking up one of the many hills in my neighborhood.

“Where Do I Sign” — Brett Eldredge

Brett Eldredge is one of my favorite artists and while most of his songs could fit on my walking playlist, this one has a really different beat that I love. It just feels like a song you should play when the sun is shining and you’re enjoying the great outdoors.

“If You Go Down (I’m Goin’ Down Too)” — Kelsea Ballerini

You’re going to sing along to anything, it should be to this song! This one is so upbeat and fun that it will be sure to make you smile! Get ready to pick up your pace because this one will make you want to power walk for the whole song.

“Waffle House” — Jonas Brothers

Who doesn’t love the Jonas Brothers?! This is one of their most recent singles and it’s so catchy. You’ll be grateful that you’re walking and not in a place to immediately order waffles!

“Cowgirls (feat. Ernest)” — Morgan Wallen

This is one of my favorite songs on Morgan Wallen’s latest album. You’ll be thinking about blazing new trails and may even wind up on a fun detour during your own walk! SCAN TO

Listen to Liz on Liz and Scotty in the Morning on Clear99.

Throughout the years, McClure has worked on several historical projects. When taking on special projects, such as preservation of historical buildings, McClure relies on the expertise of Structural Engineer, Project Manager, and Technical Expert, Patrick Earney, PE, SE.

Earney always knew he was going to be an engineer, though he's not entirely sure where he got the idea. “I was telling people I was going to be an engineer when I was eight years old," he says. "It was always a thing. I was always going to be an engineer.” And unlike other young kids enjoying Saturday morning cartoons, Earney watched an old renovation show that helped spark his passion for historic buildings. “I watched it religiously instead of cartoons on Saturdays," he says.

While in graduate school, Earney got his first opportunity to work on a historical project. “I got the opportunity to restore a 1906 mansion here in Columbia that they were basically turning into a bed and breakfast, because those were a thing back then,” he says.

Earney has been involved in many memorable historical projects, one of them being Columbia’s first jailhouse and City Hall. The building was built in the 1970s, but recently underwent a restoration of which Earney was able to be a part of. “That was a really neat project,” he says, going on to

describe the old jail cells in the back that had "iron bars on the windows and everything was still there from the 1870s.”

Earney also fondly remembers working on The Atrium on Tenth, which was a former mechanic's garage; Diggs Warehouse, which was converted into a couple of restaurants and businesses, one of which is Ozark Biscuit Company; Huston Tavern, which took on a modern look after being originally built in the 1820s; The Blue Note; the Missouri Theatre; voco The Tiger Hotel; the Columbia Farmers Market; the Governor’s Mansion in Jefferson City, and numerous other projects.

After working on so many historical projects, Earney says it’s wonderful to see the streets of Columbia elevated with modern touches while still holding onto the history that makes it unique.

“It feels new again and a new generation gets involved with it,” he says. “Downtown feels a lot more ‘with it,’ and the buildings are valuable and being used. And there's things in them that people care about.”

Through his work at McClure, Earney hopes he will continue to be able to restore the historical buildings in and around Columbia. “I look forward to more restoration projects bringing new life to our historical buildings in our community," he says.

At McClure, we do whatever it takes to get your job from concept to completion. Sometimes it’s solving a challenge before it becomes an obstacle. Sometimes it’s helping you navigate opportunities, even funding and selling the job throughout the process. Always it’s adding value and imagining what’s possible. We’re engineers, yes – but also visioneers, driven to make lives better.

There’s no better spot to get a clean vehicle than Club Car Wash, gold winner for Best Car Wash.

Photos by L.G. Patterson

The results are finally in! After thousands (and thousands!) of nominations and votes, we are ready to present the very Best of Columbia. On the following pages, you’ll find the winners in a wide variety of categories, from Best Burger to Best Festival or Annual Event.

This year, thanks to readers like you, we received more than 152,000 nominations, the most we’ve ever received for Best of Columbia. And after more than 236,000 votes, we can’t thank you enough for your support as we wrap up our 17th year of awards. We hope you will not only continue to support the Best of Columbia, but all of the small businesses that help make our community so incredible.

Now it’s time to meet the winners of Best of Columbia!

FOOD & DRINK

BEST BARBECUE

GOLD: Como Smoke & Fire

SILVER: Big Daddy's BBQ

BRONZE: D. Rowe's Restaurant & Bar

BEST BURGER

GOLD: Just Jeff's Burgers and Dogs

SILVER: Booches Billiard Hall

BRONZE: Billiards on Broadway

BEST BREAKFAST

GOLD: Big Mama's Café

SILVER: Ernie's Café & Steakhouse

BRONZE: Cafe Berlin

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

GOLD: Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant

SILVER: Casa Maria's Mexican Cantina

BRONZE: Delia’s Mexican Grill

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT

GOLD: Andy's Frozen Custard

SILVER: Sparky's Homemade Ice Cream

BRONZE: Randy's Frozen Custard

BEST LOCAL WATERING HOLE

GOLD: Logboat Brewing Co.

SILVER: Flat Branch Pub & Brewing

BRONZE: Dive Bar

BEST STEAK

GOLD: CC's City Broiler

SILVER: G&D Steakhouse

BRONZE: Murry’s

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT

GOLD: Jina Yoo's Asian Bistro

SILVER: House of Chow

BRONZE: Bangkok Gardens

BEST VEGAN/VEGETARIAN

GOLD: Cafe Berlin

SILVER: Beet Box

BRONZE: Nourish Café & Market

BEST COCKTAIL MENU

GOLD: Barred Owl Butcher & Table

SILVER: Flyover

BRONZE: Tellers Gallery & Bar

BEST CURBSIDE TAKEOUT

GOLD: D. Rowe's Restaurant & Bar

SILVER: Pasta La Fata

BRONZE: Addison's

BEST COOKIE

GOLD: Hot Box Cookies

SILVER: Crumbl Cookies

BRONZE: Jenna March Home Bakery

BEST FOOD TRUCK

GOLD: Ozark Mountain Biscuit Co.

SILVER: Mr. Murphy’s Stuffed Potatoes

BRONZE: Lily's Cantina

BEST COFFEE

GOLD: Love Coffee

SILVER: Lakota Coffee Company

BRONZE: The Grind Coffee House

You’re always in for a great experience at CC’s City Broiler, where you can find the gold winner for Best Steak, the gold winning crew for Best Wait Staff and the gold winner for Best Chef, Dustin Norem

As the gold winner for Best Asian Restaurant and Best Sushi, Jina Yoo’s Asian Bistro is always serving up the tastiest delights.

BEST MARGARITA

GOLD: Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant

SILVER: Casa Maria’s Mexican Cantina

BRONZE: Delia’s Mexican Grill

BEST SANDWICH

GOLD: Murry’s

SILVER: Sub Shop

BRONZE: Pickleman’s

BEST SUSHI

GOLD: Jina Yoo’s Asian Bistro

SILVER: Love Sushi

BRONZE: Kampai Alley

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

GOLD: Pasta La Fata

SILVER: Old Neighborhood Café

BRONZE: Goldie’s Bagels

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

GOLD: Flat Branch Pub & Brewing

SILVER: The Bistro at Les Bourgeois Vineyards

BRONZE: Ozark Mountain Biscuit & Bar

BEST APPETIZER

GOLD: Murry’s

SILVER: D. Rowe’s Restaurant & Bar

BRONZE: Addison’s

BEST PIZZA

GOLD: G&D Pizzaria

SILVER: Shakespeare's Pizza

BRONZE: Pizza Tree

PEOPLE

BEST CHEF

GOLD: Dustin Norem – CC's City Broiler

SILVER: Michelle La Fata – Pasta La Fata

BRONZE: Jina Yoo – Jina Yoo's Asian Bistro

BEST WAY TO ORDER G&D

As the gold winner for Best Pizza, G&D Pizzaria knows how to make a delicious slice. But one of our favorite ways to enjoy G&D is with their special feta, no sauce pizza. At any staff event, it's always on the menu, courtesy of marketing representative Nick Rasmussen. Is it more of a pizza or really just cheesy bread? We don’t know and we don’t care. It’s delicious.

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY

GOLD: Scotty Cox – 99.3 Clear99

SILVER: Shags – 96.7 KCMQ

BRONZE: Cosmo – 106.9 Y107

BEST LOCAL TV PERSONALITY

GOLD: Emily Spain – KOMU

SILVER: Matt Beckwith – KOMU

BRONZE: Chanel Porter – KMIZ

BEST VOLUNTEER/COMMUNITY INFLUENCER

GOLD: Ashley Emel – True North of Columbia

SILVER: Sue Culwell – Missouri Cancer Associates

BRONZE: Anthony Plogger – Nclusion Plus

BEST BARTENDER

GOLD: Jacob De Vries – Tellers Gallery & Bar

SILVER: Carter Grimes – Bur Oak Brewing Company

BRONZE: Miranda Martin – DogMaster Distillery

BEST TATTOO ARTIST

GOLD: Cassandra Stokes – Stone Crow

SILVER: Trent Tucker – Living Canvas

BRONZE: Colby Morton – Iron Tiger

GOLD: Tyson Mutrux – Mutrux Law Firm

SILVER: Jessica Caldera – Harper, Evans, Wade & Netemeyer

BRONZE: Ben Faber – Faber Law Firm

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

GOLD: Stephanie Goans – Edward Jones

SILVER: Trent Helton – Central Investment Advisors

BRONZE: John Bailey – Central Trust

BEST REALTOR

GOLD: Dustin March – Dustin March Real Estate

LLC-eXp Realty

SILVER: Izzy Smith – RE/MAX Boone Realty

BRONZE: Wendy Swetz – The Company, Wendy C. Swetz Real Estate

BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR/ PERSONAL TRAINER

GOLD: Jen Loganbill – Jen's Get Fit Group

SILVER: Kinsley Judd – BLUSH Boot Camp

BRONZE: Mackenzie Wells – Mackenzie Wells Fitness

No matter which Columbia location you choose, Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant will always deliver the best, as proven by the business’ 10th consecutive gold win for Best Mexican Restaurant and a gold win for Best Margarita this year.

Gold winner for Best Hair Stylist Jenna Sutton enjoys a drink at Barred Owl Butcher & Table, gold winner for Best Cocktail Menu.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

GOLD: Schaefer Photography

SILVER: Casey Buckman Photography

BRONZE: Holly J Greenup Photography

BEST CEO

GOLD: Nate Long – Veteran United Home Loans

SILVER: Steve Hotsenpiller – Steve’s Pest Control

BRONZE: Jabbok Schlacks – EquipmentShare

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

GOLD: Zachary Canote – Goosehead Insurance

SILVER: Phyllis Nichols – State Farm Insurance

BRONZE: Valerie Ninichuck – Shelter Insurance

SERVICES

BEST TOWING COMPANY

GOLD: Doug Perry Towing

SILVER: Tiger Towing

BRONZE: I-70 Towing & Recovery/Slate Towing & Performance

BEST LAWN CARE

GOLD: Columbia Lawn Guys

SILVER: Salter Lawn Service

BRONZE: Rost Landscaping

BEST AUTO REPAIR

GOLD: Mutrux Automotive

SILVER: Plaza Tire Service

BRONZE: Como Auto Repair

BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

GOLD: Coil Construction

SILVER: Hemme Construction

BRONZE: New Beginnings Construction & Remodeling

BEST PET DAY CARE/BOARDING

GOLD: Creekside Pet Center

SILVER: Woof's Play & Stay

BRONZE: Dog Daze Playcare

BEST NEW HOBBY TO TRY

If you haven’t given pickleball a try, this summer is the perfect opportunity. This fun way to get active was one of our late publisher Melody Parry’s favorite activities to enjoy on her days off, and we know she’d love to see more people take up a paddle and give it a try!

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

GOLD: Mutrux Automotive

SILVER: Fleet Feet Columbia

BRONZE: Bronze by Design

BEST HOME REMODELING

GOLD: TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors

SILVER: Heartland Homes Remodeling and Roofing

BRONZE: A & B Painting LLC

BEST CATERER

GOLD: Sara Fougere Catering

SILVER: Peachtree Catering

BRONZE: Bush’s Catering

SILVER: Gaines Car Detailing

BRONZE: PLSM Customization

BEST PEST CONTROL

GOLD: Steve's Pest Control

SILVER: Wingate Pest and Lawn

BRONZE: Otto’s Exterminators

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY/GROUP

GOLD: Shelter Insurance

SILVER: State Farm Insurance Agency

BRONZE: Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance

Gold winner for Best Bartender, Jacob De Vries of Tellers Gallery & Bar holds up a glass of champagne hiding a gorgeous ring from Betz Jewelers, gold winner for Best Place to Buy Jewelry.

BEST HOME REPAIR

GOLD: ServiceMaster of Columbia

SILVER: Limitless Deck Repair

BRONZE: 911 Restoration of Central Missouri

BEST PET SUPPLIES/GROOMER

GOLD: Lizzi & Rocco's Natural Pet Market

SILVER: Treats Unleashed

BRONZE: The Basement Reef

BEST WAIT STAFF

GOLD: CC's City Broiler

SILVER: Murry's

BRONZE: Barred Owl Butcher & Table

BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE

GOLD: Horton Animal Hospital

SILVER: Noah's Ark Animal Hospital & Bird Clinic

BRONZE: Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital

BEST CLEANING SERVICE

GOLD: Columbia House Washing

SILVER: The Cleanest, LLC

BRONZE: Sudz Up Cleaning Company

BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

GOLD: Brian Wear Plumbing

SILVER: MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

BRONZE: Adam’s Plumbing

BEST HVAC COMPANY

GOLD: Chapman Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

SILVER: Aire Serv of Columbia

BRONZE: Star Heating & Air Conditioning Co.

WELLNESS

BEST CHIROPRACTIC OFFICE

GOLD: Restoration Chiropractic

SILVER: Compass Chiropractic & Wellness

BRONZE: Achieve Balance Chiropractic

As gold winner for Best Caterer, Sara Fougere of Sara Fougere Catering knows how to feed a crowd, like the hungry staff at Rusty Drewing Dealerships, gold winner for Best Place to Buy a Car.

BEST AREA SCULPTURE

Anyone who has driven down Green Meadows Road in south Columbia should be familiar with the dinosaur sculptures that appear around Fireside Apartments. The property owner had the sculptures made by artists he met in Mexico, who make the pieces from scrap metal. The tenants of the complex have always loved the sculptures and take pride in decorating them for different seasons and holidays. Make sure to check them out next time you’re heading to Murry’s!

BEST HAIR STYLIST

GOLD: Jenna Sutton –The Clip Joint Salon & Spa

SILVER: Angela Mechlin – Hair Therapy Salon & Day Spa

BRONZE: Samantha Woolridge – Regeneration Salon & Spa

BEST MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE

GOLD: Burrell Behavioral Health

SILVER: Anxiety & Depression Clinic of Columbia

BRONZE: Counseling Associates

BEST DENTIST/ORTHODONTIST

GOLD: All American Dental

SILVER: 32 Dental Urgent Care

BRONZE: Central Missouri Orthodontics

BEST SPECIALTY HEALTH CARE

GOLD: Columbia Orthopaedic Group

SILVER: Missouri Heart Center

BRONZE: Missouri Ear, Nose & Throat

BEST PLACE TO GET EYE CARE

GOLD: Missouri Eye Consultants

SILVER: Andrew Stone Optometry

BRONZE: Family Focus Eyecare

BEST DISPENSARY/CBD

GOLD: Shangri-La Marijuana Dispensary

SILVER: Green Releaf Marijuana Dispensary

BRONZE: 3Fifteen Primo Cannabis Columbia

BEST SPA

GOLD: Riversong Spa & Salon

SILVER: Hair Therapy Salon & Day Spa

BRONZE: Regeneration Salon & Spa

Gold winner for Best Plumber Brian Wear of Brian Wear Plumbing enjoys a bite from Just Jeff’s, gold winner for Best Burger.

Scotty Cox and Liz of Clear99’s Liz and Scotty in the Morning, gold winner for Best Local Radio Show, can have a fun chat with anyone anywhere, even while getting their nails done at Regeneration Salon & Spa, gold winner for Best Nail Salon. Scotty Cox also took gold for Best Radio Personality.

BEST NAIL SALON

GOLD: Regeneration Salon & Spa

SILVER: Polished Nail Spa & Esthetics

BRONZE: Lux Nail Bar

LOCAL FAVORITES

BEST LOCAL RADIO SHOW

GOLD: Liz and Scotty in the Morning

SILVER: The Morning Shag with Shags & Trevor

BRONZE: Y107’s Cosmo and Kat Show

BEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC

GOLD: Cooper's Landing

SILVER: The Blue Note

BRONZE: Rose Music Hall

BEST OUTDOOR PARK/RECREATION SPOT

GOLD: Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

SILVER: Stephen's Lake Park

BRONZE: Cosmo Park

BEST LOCAL CLOTHING STORE

GOLD: Fringe Western Wear

SILVER: My Sister's Circus

BRONZE: The Southern Rose

BEST PLACE TO BUY HOME GOODS & GIFTS

GOLD: Plume

SILVER: Tallulah's

BRONZE: The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift

BEST PLACE TO BUY SHOES

GOLD: Dryer's Shoe Store

SILVER: Fleet Feet

BRONZE: American Shoe

BEST PLACE TO BUY JEWELRY

GOLD: Betz Jewelers

SILVER: Buchroeders Jewelers

BRONZE: Poppy

BEST PLACE TO BUY WEDDING ATTIRE

GOLD: Breeze Boutique

SILVER: Vows Bridal & Formal

BRONZE: Binghams Traditional Clothing

Children and adults alike can find fun and more each year in June at Art in the Park, gold winner for Best Festival or Annual Event.

BEST FESTIVAL OR ANNUAL EVENT

GOLD: Art in the Park

SILVER: True/False Film Fest

BRONZE: Treeline Music Fest (formerly Roots N Blues)

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATION

GOLD: Midway Golf and Games

SILVER: Level Up Entertainment

BRONZE: Sky Zone

BEST PLACE TO BUY A CAR

GOLD: Rusty Drewing Dealerships

SILVER: University Subaru

BRONZE: Machens Automotive

BEST PLACE TO WORK

GOLD: Veterans United Home Loans

SILVER: Mutrux Automotive

BRONZE: Missouri Ear, Nose & Throat Center

BEST WEEKEND GETAWAY SPOT

GOLD: Lake of the Ozarks

SILVER: Hermann

BRONZE: Branson

BEST NONPROFIT

GOLD: Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue

SILVER: Love Columbia

BRONZE: Central Missouri Honor Flight

BEST WEDDING VENUE

GOLD: Cooper’s Ridge Event Venue

SILVER: The Blufftop at Rocheport

BRONZE: Columbia Country Club

Stylish Sets Find the Trend that Best Suits Your Nails.

STYLED BY MADELYN JONES | PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

Nail art is all the rage right now. From detailed designs that look like tiny masterpieces to more subdued colors and styles, the summer nail trends have a wide range of styles from which to choose. And that’s always a good thing since what works for one person may be totally ridiculous for someone else.

So we decided to showcase some of the more trendy and yet still attainable looks of the season. Whether you want to head to a local salon, like Varsity Nails or Florida Nails, or need something you can do yourself while at home, the following pages will have an idea for you. We made sure to include both real nails and press-on nails to show you some of the options available so you can find what best suits your lifestyle. So go on — nail it!

StylebyVarsityNails

Suns Out Funs Out

23 Things to do in Summer '23

By Zola Crowder | Photos by L.G Patterson & Ava Kitzi

The summer sun is out and it’s time to enjoy all the perks that come with this beloved season. So, we’ve rounded up 23 essential summer activities to do before fall arrives.

Whether you’re a lifelong Columbia resident or a new transplant to our community, we’re sure you’ll find at least a few items on our list that will speak to you

Cool off at Three Creeks Conservation Area

If you’re looking for a place to cool off while enjoying nature, head over to Three Creeks Conservation Area in Boone County, halfway between Columbia and Ashland. This spot, which gets its name from the three creeks that run through the area, is the perfect place to take a dip in a natural watering hole, bird watch, go fishing or hunting (during the appropriate and legal seasons) and enjoy trails. For more information visit, mdc.mo.gov

and help you plan a day of true summer fun in mid-Missouri.

So, sit back, relax and have fun planning your next summer adventure. Enjoy!

Experience BoatHenge

Yes, you read that correctly, BoatHenge. This local attraction is modeled after the famous Stonehenge and features six fiberglass boats that have been planted upright in a grassy field. But be warned: You can’t drive to this site at Plowboy Bend along the limestone bluffs of Missouri’s Katy Trail. It’s really only accessible by boat, bike or feet. For more information, visit boathenge.net

Try a Sweet Treat to Beat the Heat

When looking for an easy way to beat the heat on a summer day, there’s no better spot for a cold sweet treat than Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream. When arriving, you’ll be greeted by the pink colors and collection of wall art along with all kinds of rotating unique flavors, including honey lavender, mandarin orange dark chocolate and banana Nutella. Don't forget to stop and see the statue of Sparky himself out front! For more information, visit facebook.com/sparkyshomemade

Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

Whether you are an early riser or prefer an evening on the patio, there is a perfect spot in Columbia for the best view of the sunset and sunrise. The Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, Cooper’s Landing and the Hitt Street parking garage will put you in the perfect position to enjoy the sunset, while Capen Park offers a scenic view for watching the sunrise.

Spend Time at Stephens Lake Park

There are several summer activities to try with your family when visiting Stephens Lake Park. If you're looking to cool off, Stephens Lake Beach and Spraygrounds are free to the public and open through Sept. 30. You can enjoy a sand beach with a designated area for swimming. Or, if you aren’t looking to get wet, grab a blanket and chair to enjoy free concerts at the Stephens Lake Amphitheater. For more information, visit como.gov/parks/ stephens-lake-park

Find Yourself at First Fridays

First Fridays is a free gallery crawl held on the first Friday of each month, with live music, art and entertainment going on throughout the North Village Arts District. Participating venues include the Sager Reeves Gallery, Fretboard Coffee, Curations 573, Artlandish Gallery, DogMaster Distillery, Serendipity, Orr Street Studios, Rose Music Hall, Coming Home and more. Each location will have a map/guide available for navigating the area. For more information, visit northvillageartsdistrict.org/first-

Play on the Patio

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a meal or a drink on a patio. Luckily in Columbia, there are several places for the perfect patio experience. Whether you’re grabbing a brew at Logboat Brewing Co.’s new and improved outdoor space, enjoying Flat Branch Pub’s shaded patio, experiencing the downtown scene at Shiloh Bar & Grill’s outdoor section, trying something new at Ozark Mountain Biscuit & Bar or having a glass of wine at The Bistro at Les Bourgeois Vineyards, there is a patio just for you.

Explore Shelter Gardens

Just past the iron gates at Shelter Insurance is the home of more than 300 varieties of trees and shrubs and 15,000 annuals and perennials. Shelter Gardens is open to the public daily as a perfect spot for a picnic or just a place to take a walk with your family. The gardens contain 14 features, including a waterfall, rock garden, Vietnam War veterans' memorial, replica 19th century one-room schoolhouse and garden for the blind. For more information, visit shelterinsurance.com.

Try Something New in the Arcade District

Are you in the mood to play games, listen to live music or try a new bite at a local restaurant? Then the Arcade District is for you. Located mostly along Fay Street is a new and developing area in Columbia, which includes the Witches and Wizards arcade, several local restaurants, retail spaces and even the addition of Six Mile Ordinary, a new distillery in town. For more information, visit bit.ly/ArcadeDistrict.

Head to a Historical Event Venue

Whether you want to listen to live music, have a cocktail with a good view, shop for all kinds of goods from farm fresh eggs to T-shirts, or eat brunch, lunch or dinner, Pierpont General Store has it all. This outdoor venue has regularly scheduled

local musical acts, yoga classes, workshops and more, all perfect for a summer outing with the family, date night or even a night out with friends. For more information, visit pierpontstore.com

Watch the Fire in the Sky

One perk of summer is getting to view fireworks once again to celebrate the Fourth of July. This year, the 71st Fire in the Sky celebration is being held at Stephens Lake Park. So, get comfortable and prepare to view the firework display with the community. And don’t forget blankets and lawn chairs for the ultimate experience. For more information, visit como.gov/ parks-and-recreation/special-events/4th-july-fire-sky.

Run Around at the Boone County Fair

Have more fun than ever before at the Boone County Fair from July 18-22 at 5212 Oakland Gravel Road. Enjoy live music, the Demolition Derby, the annual Ham Breakfast, a motorcycle stunt show, face painting, a bounce house, petting zoo and more. For more information, visit theboonecountyfair.com

Pay a Visit to the Big Tree

If you’re looking to see a historical landmark while out in nature, experiencing the beauty of mid-Missouri, The Big Tree is the spot to visit. The Big Tree is nearly 400 years old and the largest bur oak tree in Missouri. It sits alone near the Missouri River along Burr Oak Road. This beautiful tree is an inspiration for artists, photographers and nature lovers and is the perfect landmark for a summer picnic or a day out with the family.

Attend a Family Fun Fest

Enjoy free entertainment for the entire family through September. Listen to music, try local food trucks, experience live performances and art activities, get hands-on learning, try face painting, make balloon art and just have fun! This event takes place the third Wednesday of the month through September at multiple locations, including Cosmo Park and Albert-Oakland Park. For more information, visit como.gov/ parks-and-recreation/special-events/family-fun-fest

Get Adventurous in the Water

For those seeking a water-based thrill, check out all the nearby

spots for kayaking and canoeing. In Columbia, get on the water at Finger Lakes State Park; to the east, paddle out to Devil’s Back Floats in Leslie or float to Lucky Clover Resort and Brown Canoe Rental in Steelville; head west toward Boiling Spring Campground in Dixon or swim to Rich’s Last Resort in Duke; or paddle south to One Eyed Willy’s Campground and Canoe Rental in Lebanon. For more information visit stepoutside.org/ columbia-mo/kayak-and-canoe

Find the Perfect Place to Camp

Are you in the mood to spend time outdoors? There is a plethora of local camp sites to choose from to have a night away from home. From Cedar Creek Resort & RV Park, which offers 167 acres of nature and a 25-acre lake, to Cooper’s Landing, which includes a dining option, boat fuel station, boat dock and store, there’s plenty of options. Cottonwoods RV Park has 97 sites, 63 pull-throughs and three tent sites, while there’s also the 1,128-acre Finger Lakes State Park, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park or even the scenic bluffs at Three Creeks Conservation Area. For more information, visit visitcolumbiamo.com/section/camp

Make Memories with Music

For music fans, specifically in the classical genre, The Missouri Symphony has the perfect opportunities for you. Plus, the first two weeks of July will have the conclusion of the symphony’s summer Firefly Music Festival, promising some spectacular performances perfect for the season. For more information, visit themosy.org.

Shop Local in The District

Support local businesses in The District this summer and shop! The District, located in downtown Columbia, is home to hundreds of local businesses, including restaurants, shops, art galleries and more. You can easily plan to spend a day in the area, whether it’s lunch at Tellers Gallery & Bar, shopping at My Sister’s Circus or Skylark Bookshop or Boone Olive Oil Co., or enjoying the exhibitions at Sager Reeves Gallery. For more information, visit discoverthedistrict.com

Experience a Culinary Tour

Go on a culinary tour to experience the diverse flavors and local restaurants in Columbia. The Columbia Culinary Tours offer a unique way to experience downtown Columbia’s food scene. During each tour, you’ll visit four to five restaurants, meet the owner, manager or chef, and taste their favorite dish. To schedule a tour, visit columbiaculinarytours.com. Of course, you can always create your own culinary tour by picking a few new places to try with friends or your significant other over the course of a day or weekend.

Take a Dip in a Public Pool

On a hot summer day, you might be craving a dip in the pool. If you don't have your own, don't fret! There are several public pools in Columbia to enjoy in the summer, including the AlbertOakland Family Aquatic Center, the ARC Water Zone, the Douglass Family Aquatic Center, the Hickman Pool, the Lake of the Woods Pool Wilson’s Beach Club and more. For more information, visit como.gov/parks-and-recreation/aquatics.

Get to know the community more and try out all kinds of local products at both the Columbia Farmers Market and the Boone County Farmers Market. Meet groups of farmers and artisans who work to supply the community with fresh, local, nutritious food and other items. The Boone County Farmers Market meets on Saturdays in the Columbia Mall Parking lot, while the Columbia Farmer’s Market gathers on Wednesdays and Saturdays. For more information, visit columbiafarmersmarket.org and boonecountyfarmers.com

Jam Out at The Blue Note & Rose Music Hall

Enjoy the music scene at Columbia’s well known music venues all summer long. From cover bands, popular artists and local musicians to comedians and festivals, The Blue Note and Rose Music Hall have events scheduled for any occasion. For more information on scheduled shows visit thebluenote.com.

Watch A Movie Outdoors

If you love watching movies but want to switch up the atmosphere, mid-Missouri has several outdoor movie options. At Lakeside Ashland, you can watch old classics, family favorites and even new films on a 70-foot LED video wall. A little closer to home, the city of Columbia hosts Movies in the Park, a free family-friendly option. For more information, visit lakesideashland.com or como.gov/parks-and-recreation/specialevents/movies-in-the-park.

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When it comes to finding the very best Columbia has to offer, there’s almost too many businesses, groups and people to name. But those highlighted on the following pages have earned special recognition for the quality of service and products provided. Learn more about the nominees and winners of this year’s Best of Columbia awards in this special advertising section.

Congratulations to all of our nominees and remember to shop, eat and read LOCAL!

Rusty Drewing Dealerships

1710 I-70 Drive SW Columbia • 573-886-7040 • RustyDrewing.com

Customers of Rusty Drewing Dealerships, as well as BMW of Columbia/ Mercedes-Benz of Columbia, know that once they step into a dealership, they’ll be greeted by the familiar faces of longtime employees. Rusty Drewing, owner and president, says customer experience is always a priority for his team as happy customers are repeat customers. “Our goal is to treat you so well that you would never think of doing business elsewhere,” he says. “Happy customers tell their friends and family about their experience and encourage them to do business with us.”

That’s why winning gold for Best Place to Buy a Car is such an honor, Drewing says, as it shows that the community can see the passion he and his team have for the business. “We are overjoyed to receive this honor and want to give a big

thank you to everyone who voted for us,” he says. “It lets our team know that people notice what we are doing.”

That emphasis on customers is why each one becomes family over time, says Amanda Riley, marketing manager. “The connection to our community reaches beyond the sale of a vehicle,” she says.

Drewing knows that one of the most important things for any local business is not just to be a part of the community, but to be an active part. “We are truly part of a community and want to make it fun and exciting for everyone,” Drewing says, noting that they also want to bring unique experiences to the community. “Columbia is a big, small town where every interaction and experience a customer has with you matters.”

Betz Jewelers

601 E. Broadway, suite 303 • 573-449-1070 • betzjewelers.com

Betz Jewelers is a hidden gem, tucked away on the third floor of the Executive Building at Sixth Street and Broadway (Boone Central Title is on the ground floor.) Once you find the secret spot, “you'll be buzzed in and welcomed, but never pressured or ‘sold,’” says Rachel Flynn, the store’s marketing director. “We’re a warm, family-friendly environment.”

Flynn says if she only had one word, she would describe Betz as welcoming. “We always want people to feel at home here,” she says.

Flynn says she and the entire Betz staff are honored that loyal customers and friends voted them as the Best Place to Buy Jewelry in this year’s Best of Columbia. “Winning gold means the community trusts us and appreciates our team’s commitment to integrity and customer service,” Flynn says. “We are so honored to be recognized as the Best Place to Buy Jewelry for the third year

in a row.”

One of the store’s strengths lies in Robert Flynn, a graduate gemologist who serves as general manager. In fact, he is the only one with that designation working in a retail setting within the area. Betz also employs two bench jewelers, which allows them to take care of almost all repairs in-house and quickly.

Along with being recognized as a gold winner, Betz Jewelers has many other exciting plans for this year. Flynn says they are completing a showroom remodel and celebrating the 40th anniversary of the shop in downtown Columbia. “We’ll be having major events and a 40%-60% off sale July 18-29 to commemorate this special anniversary,” she says.

And, most importantly, Flynn says huge thanks to “all of our loyal customers and our team for making our win possible!”

With more than 25 years of experience, Las Margaritas knows how to make authentic Mexican food and drinks. It’s the reason the business can now proudly state that they have won gold for Best Mexican Restaurant for the 10th year in a row!

“Our entire company is so incredibly honored to be awarded Best Mexican!” says Francisco Esquivel, owner. Las Margaritas also won gold for Best Margarita.

“None of this would have been possible without our amazing team members and our fabulous customers,” he continues. “Thank you all for voting for us and giving us your constant support. We are beyond thankful!”

And while Las Margaritas has only been in Columbia since 2012, Esquivel has been dishing up authentic — and delicious — Mexican favorites since opening the first Las Margaritas in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, in 1997. In fact, there are still three locations in Poplar Bluff today.

Francisco, who co-owns the business with his wife Yolanda, says the Las Margaritas employees are the best in the business. “Each and every day they create an atmosphere that feeds our guests’ bodies and souls. That’s only possible when you work with people you love and love what you do.”

Each of the Las Margaritas locations sets out to serve authentic, fresh Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites. A few of their popular menu items include tacos carne asada especiales, their arroz margaritas and their molcajete ranchero, a crowd favorite that includes steak and chicken marinated with pasilla peppers and served in authentic molcajete with tortillas. And make sure not to miss out on those award-winning margaritas that come in a variety of flavors (and sizes), from mango to banana. It really is the perfect complement to a delicious Mexican meal.

Mutrux Automotive

2100 W. Rollins Road • 573-445-1070 • Mutruxauto.com

For 21 years, Mutrux Automotive has been serving the Columbia community, providing full service at the pumps and in the garage for both minor and major repairs. Owners Cindy and Ross Mutrux say the customers are the best part of business. “We truly have the best customer base ever,” Cindy Mutrux says.

As a hometown pair, they know the importance of serving the community and providing quality service. But that wouldn’t be possible without the team at Mutrux, who are considered family. “They are the faces of Mutrux Automotive,” Mutrux says.

After winning gold for Best Auto Repair, gold for Best Customer Service and silver for Best Place to Work, “we are truly humbled,” she says. “We are a locally, family-owned business with a touch of Mayberry.”

Mutrux says there’s not too many true mom-and-pop shops left, which makes

supporting those who exist all the more important. At Mutrux Automotive, their dedicated customers do just that, with service by appointment only. “We may not always be the least expensive, but our customer service makes up for that.”

After all, Mutrux Automotive is more than just a garage or gas station. “We are that neighborhood store that kids ride their bikes to get a cold Fitz soda, ice cream or candy bar,” Mutrux says. “It's a place where veterans come to have coffee and chat. It's a place where everyone is loved and accepted.”

The past few years have been especially difficult for many small businesses, and Mutrux says they “appreciate our customers for being flexible and understanding as we have had to navigate through these changes and push forward. … Thank you for your love, support, prayers and being our cheerleaders to keep us going.”

Brian Wear Plumbing

2501 Rangeline St., suite B • 573-864-4463 • Brianwearplumbing.com

No one likes dealing with plumbing issues. But when you call Brian Wear Plumbing, you can rest assured that whatever the problem is, it will be solved. Plus, your home will be fully inspected to prevent future issues.

“Whatever the problem, we’re here to solve it. We want to be the go-to plumber in Columbia,” says Owner Brian Wear.

Along with plumbing, water heater repair, sewer repair, gas lines, drain cleaning, remodeling and water conditioning, Wear says his company has added trenchless pipe repair, a modern solution that replaces underground pipes without excavation. Wear says this is just a part of continuing to grow his business. “We’ve

also hired four new apprentices for future growth,” Wear says.

Brian Wear Plumbing has all the skills and equipment needed to fix any plumbing problem, which is why the company won gold for Best Plumbing Company in this year’s Best of Columbia. For Wear, this award is “gratifying for my team to have the recognition they deserve.” And it wouldn’t be possible without their amazing customers. “I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to vote for us,” Wear says.

Missouri Eye Consultants

500 Keene St., #103; 900 W. Nifong Blvd., #125 • 573-874-2030 • MOeyes.com

Missouri Eye Consultants prides itself on putting the needs of each patient first and foremost.

Chris DeRose, optometrist and one of the owners of Missouri Eye Consultants, says it’s what the business is known for in mid-Missouri. “We do not take any shortcuts with our patients' needs,” he says.

And winning gold for Best Place to Get Eye Care shows DeRose and his team that the community has noticed that focus and appreciates the staff’s dedication to quality care.

After all, it’s the staff at Missouri Eye Consultants that makes the win even possible. “They are fully committed to the practice's mission of providing great quality eye care,” DeRose says. “And they are well-trained to never dismiss any concern or any question that the patient possesses.”

Along with winning gold here in Columbia, DeRose says one doctor on staff,

Nathan Hesemann, was ranked fifth nationally in American's Best Eye Doctors by Newsweek Magazine

“Our practice brings together the ‘three O's’ of eye care: opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists,” DeRose says. “We can provide everything required for the patient's complete experience.” That includes everything from contact lenses to treatment of eye conditions and disease, to surgery.

Being that Columbia is known as a regional center for health care, DeRose says it makes a great fit for Missouri Eye Consultants, which operates a central hub in the area for its seven-location practice. And by being locally owned, DeRose says each of the doctors and staff members truly believe “in doing our part as members of the Columbia community.”

As for the win, thank you to “our staff for believing in our system of putting the patient first.”

Creekside Pet Center

5820 E. Highway 163 • 573-256-7387 • Creeksidepetcenter.com

With a dedicated team, designated pet focused facility and passion, Creekside Pet Center is the perfect place for Columbia pets. Jacob Brummet, owner, loves being a home away from home for your most special furry friend. “We are truly pet focused,” he says. “We designed everything with our pets in mind.”

Brummet says Creekside also employs many students who are working their way through school while gaining valuable animal experience. “We love being a place that can help young people get their careers started and be flexible with their schedules so school can still be their main focus while also still maintaining our excellent level of pet care.”

Being nominated, and winning gold for Best Pet Day Care/Boarding is great recognition for Brummet and his team. “It takes some amazing, dedicated people to continue to pull up the link and vote every single day to help us get nominated and win!”

Brummet says the goal and daily motto is excellence and it’s echoed throughout everything they do. “We strive for excellence whether that’s cleaning a room, walking a dog or just how you feel as a guest,” he says.

Creekside is always here to help, and Brummet says he is proud to see just how loved his business is by the community. “We are even more grateful that the community has taken us in and continues to support us. It’s truly heartwarming.”

Izzy Smith Homes - RE/MAX Boone Realty

33 E. Broadway, suite 200 • 573-876-2873 • izzysmithhomes.com

Izzy Smith’s extensive knowledge of real estate has helped her assist property buyers and sellers in all types of ways. Smith, of Izzy Smith Homes-RE/MAX Boone Realty, says her agriculture business degree has helped develop her exclusive knowledge of land sales, in addition to the experience she has gained in the field. “My experience with commercial real estate, broad construction knowledge, resources and expertise in the surrounding towns and counties, set my business apart from the rest,” Smith says.

With a strong network of local and experienced mentors, contractors, lenders and other referral partners, Smith can serve buyers and sellers using top resources with industry-leading knowledge in all aspects of real estate.  But none of that would be possible without passion, which Smith says is the word that best describes her business. “Passion is where hard work and dedication to the community come together to help anyone dreaming of property ownership,” she

says. Growing up in Columbia and becoming a business owner showed Smith that it’s important to focus on living and supporting local. This has become a part of her business model, which not only means supporting small businesses, but attending events and community happenings in the area. “My business model follows all aspects of what Columbia is built on,” Smith says. “The entrepreneurial spirit and energy are the heartbeat of the community, and the local businesses are the backbone of the area.”

Winning silver for Best Realtor shows Smith that her commitment to her clients is reciprocated with loyalty and appreciation. “I am very thankful for the support and encouragement from the community, clients and my peers,” Smith says. “I'd like to extend one last appreciation to those who have supported and will continue to support Izzy Smith Homes-RE/MAX Boone Realty. I am your hometown REALTOR working harder for you!”

For the past 17 years, Jenna Sutton has been working behind the chair, building relationships with the people of Columbia. As a hair stylist at The Clip Joint, Sutton says she spends her time working to make clients feel their best. That’s why it means the world to be recognized by winning gold for Best Hair Stylist. “It's a nice nod to the hard work I have put in over the years,” she says. “And without my amazing clients, I wouldn't be here.”

Along with her clients, Sutton says she will be forever grateful to her boss, Stacey Woods, who “gave me a home at The Clip Joint.”

Whether you are looking for a little trim or a complete makeover, Sutton says

the minute you sit in her chair, honesty is her policy. “If I don't think it's the right look for you, I'll tell you,” she says. “I want to guide every guest in my chair to their best self, so keeping in mind their daily lifestyle and the amount of effort they want to put in at home, helps me make that decision with them.”

For 50 years, The Clip Joint has been serving the Columbia community, and Sutton says she is honored to be a part of the journey. “I'm proud to be somewhere that has been thriving as a business for so long,” she says. “We pride ourselves in taking care of such a wonderful community like Columbia.”

For more than 30 years, Lakota Coffee Company has been keeping Columbia caffeinated by providing the freshest tasting coffee possible. So it’s no wonder the business was recognized with the silver award for Best Coffee in this year’s Best of Columbia. “We strive to provide the best coffee, atmosphere and customer service in town,” says Andrew DuCharme, general manager.

Lakota began serving the Columbia community in 1992, when Skip DuCharme opened the business and started roasting. As Andrew DuCharme points out, this was before “the big coffee wave of the late ‘90s and early 2000s.”

Lakota now has locations on Green Meadows Road and University Hospital in addition to the downtown shop on 9th Street, where staff continue to roast coffee in-house nearly six days per week. “Our small batch coffee roasting techniques are the key to our great coffee,” Andrew DuCharme says. It’s why perfection is how

he would describe the business at Lakota. “We strive for perfection in each coffee roast, in each beverage we serve, in every bagel sandwich we make,” he says. “Our goal is to have an amazing product and experience for the customer.”

DuCharme knows that Lakota would not be able to provide that standard of service without the team in place at each location. Their hard work and loving nature is what helps keep Lakota successful and helps provide important connections for customers. After all, the Columbia community always turns out to support small, family-owned shops like Lakota.

“We would like to thank all of Columbia who voted for us, and our staff,” Ducharme says. “With the great staff and the amazing customers, we would not be who we are today. Thanks for 30 plus years. Let's keep brewing Columbia!”

911 Restoration of Central Missouri

6620 Stephens Station Road, suite C • 573-665-3688 • 911restorationcentralmissouri.com

Positioned right in the heart of Missouri, 911 Restoration of Central Missouri is ready to serve a wide customer base, assisting after any disaster. After all, the whole goal of the company is to be there when you most need a helping hand, says Owner Dustan White. “We strive to uplift our customers, helping them regain a sense of normalcy and hope after a disaster,” he says.

White says his team provides a truly exceptional and distinctive restoration experience through their comprehensive services and 24/7 emergency response. The business also employs highly trained certified technicians who use a personalized approach and fresh start mentality to better focus on customer experience. “The rapid response sets us apart and ensures that

our customers receive the immediate assistance they need,” he says. “Our dedication to the community further distinguishes us and reinforces our connection with the people we serve.”

This dedication has been recognized by the community as 911 Restoration was awarded bronze for Best Home Repair in this year’s Best of Columbia. White says being a finalist shows the community just how hard his team works to provide the best possible service. “This recognition not only validates our efforts, but also boosts our reputation within the community,” he says.

“We extend our sincerest thanks for your trust, support and belief in our abilities. We remain committed to providing the highest level of service and a fresh start to all those we serve.”

Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance

3304 W Broadway Business Park Ct, Ste I • (573) 818-7870 | Josh Thompson, Mandy Shanks, Mike Ward 2415 Carter Lane, Ste 2 • (573) 514-8000 | Will Garrett

5510 Pergola Dr, Ste 101 • (573) 449-5739 | Nick Rector, Mitchell Blehm

As Columbia continues to grow, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance has grown as well, adding more local insurance professionals to its agency. “From homeowners and renters’ insurance to auto insurance and commercial insurance, we have Columbia's growing insurance needs covered,” says Director of Customer Experience Ashton Kidwell.

At Missouri Farm Bureau, they know the importance of being there for the community and helping protect a variety of assets for clients. “When life events or losses occur, being there each step of the way gives our service that extra touch that's increasingly harder to find,” Kidwell says.

But the agency also focuses inward, always looking for ways to serve and support its team members. “It’s a great place to build a career,” Kidwell says. “Our opportunities are not just limited to those with experience in the

insurance industry, and we are a growing company with excellent benefits and abundant professional development resources.”

Along with serving the insurance needs of the community, Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance enjoys contributing to nonprofits and charitable causes as well. “We just wrapped up our Home Run Against Hunger campaign,” Kidwell says. “We raised and donated over $18,000 and two tons of food to Feeding Missouri affiliates in a single month.”

And Kidwell says being recognized for their growing work and winning bronze for Best Insurance Agency/Group has been an absolute honor. “When readers recognize our uniquely Missouri products and exceptional service, it's a tremendous achievement for our company as a whole.”

From left to right: Josh Thompson, Mike Ward, Will Garrett, Nick Rector, Mitchell Blehm, Mandy Shanks

118 Sweet Treat

123 Summer Snack

128 Perfect Pesto

133 Tropical Taste

GOOD GRUB

Did you know that July is National Blueberry Month? This small fruit is not only delicious but has lots of health benefits. Its antioxidants help protect against diseases like cancer and heart disease, plus blueberries also can be beneficial for blood sugar regulation in people with Type 2 diabetes. So, celebrate July with a handful of blueberries! (Or maybe put ‘em in a pie … We won’t judge.)

A Sweet Success

NEW SHOP DOWNTOWN OFFERS MORE THAN JUST TREATS.

BY ZOLA CROWDER · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

Summer is the perfect time for a refreshing sweet treat. Whether you need something to cool you off or pick you up, sometimes nothing hits the spot quite like a tasty indulgence.

For those looking for something different, My Sweet Parlor, a new Asian dessert shop in downtown Columbia, aims to soothe your cravings.

Owner Pranlada Chompupong says growing up in Thailand, her family perfected Thai desserts, and now she is grateful to share her family recipes with Columbia. “If I can do it, I want to bring

my mother’s recipes to the people in Columbia,” she says.

One of the most unique items

Chompupong sells is bingsu, a milkbased Korean shaved ice dessert, “you can eat outside while it cools you down.”

It even comes in all kinds of flavors, including mango, brownie chocolate, strawberry, cantaloupe, green tea and Thai tea. “We don’t have any of that in Columbia,” Chompupong says.

Alongside the bingsu, Chompupong also serves several flavors of cake, different kinds of honey toast, coffee, tea, sparkle drinks, yogurt and smoothies.

While dessert is the focus, it’s not the only thing you can purchase when walking in the doors. For those in need of a savory kick, Chompupong has recently added savory crepes, fresh rolls, mussaman curry and fresh authentic

I want to bring my mother’s recipes to the people in Columbia.

“

Thai noodles to the menu, all of which she says represent Thailand very well.

Chompupong’s husband previously owned Thip Thai, an authentic Thai restaurant that operated in Columbia for nearly a decade, and she wanted to give the community some of that authentic Thai experience by adding the savory

dishes to her sweet shop menu. “The Thai curry noodle is one of our most popular and I love making it,” she says. “We always sell out.”

With continual appreciation for the savory changes, Chompupong has a “plan to expand the menu more in the future.” She hopes that by expanding her

offerings over time, more people will be able to try more of what she believes is the most authentic Thai food available.

My Sweet Parlor opened in February, finishing renovations in March for the upstairs portion of the business. Since opening, Chompupong has seen business continually increase, especially once the weather warmed up and word got out about her sweet treats. “Business is very good and very busy on the weekends,” she says. “In the beginning, we didn’t promote much so business was slow, but now it has picked up.” She says the bingsu is particularly popular on the weekends, making it one of her best sellers and a perfect choice for a summer treat. “I make it fresh every single day,” she says.

The two most popular cakes are the taro custard cakes, which is a cake on top of a Thai style custard with a similar texture to flan, and the coconut cake, made of fresh coconut milk and cream. “They are always really fresh,” Chompupong says.

She says Columbia was in need of a shop like hers, offering the most authentic desserts and dishes while providing a comfortable spot to spend the day. Chompupong says the goal is to be a place for people to come and take pictures, have private events and, of course, cool off in the summer. “I want it to be ‘Instagramable’ for students,” she says of her shop. “We had graduation parties; we can do baby showers or wedding showers, too.”

It’s all about giving a unique experience for people downtown, whether you come in to try food or just take a beautiful picture using the colorful backdrop provided. “We want it to be a place for people to enjoy that is unique and offers more variety in

downtown Columbia,” Chompupong says. Customers are welcome to enjoy the upstairs area when a private party is not taking place. In fact, it’s one of the best places to sit and enjoy the treat of your choosing. “I love going up there,” she says. “It’s actually my favorite spot.”

For anyone who hasn’t come across the new shop, Chompupong has one thing to say: “Be open to try something new.” Everything is fresh, tasty and made daily by Chompupong herself.

My Sweet Parlor is located at 1020 E. Broadway, suite G and is open from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Tuesday, and from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. To book a private room, call 573-219-2224 or visit My Sweet Parlor on Facebook or Instagram to learn more about this sweet success.

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A Dip to Inspire All

SAVORY, FRESH SUMMER SNACK IS PERFECTLY SUITED FOR ANY EVENT.

In my life, I’ve been lucky enough to have great cooks to inspire and teach me.

My mother was a fantastic cook who taught me to make a consistently good roast. I’ve got a tremendously talented brother-in-law who treats me to cioppino — fresh seafood stew — each summer, and believe me, I look forward to it.

But most of all, my cousin Martha Lou is the one who got me started on my path to catering. She and I used to daydream about the kitchen we would have and the dishes we would prepare in our very Martha Stewart-like business.

This dip recipe is one of hers and I love making it, knowing part of our legacy made it into my very real kitchen and onto your very real party buffets. It’s creamy, savory and fresh, and the combination of flavors, colors and textures works for any event. I usually form it into a ring, resulting in my youngest calling it "donut dip," but you could flatten it in a pie plate for easy transportation or even shape it into a ball if you’re feeling retro fancy.

I hope you think about the cooks who inspire you when making and serving it.

Caprese (aka Summer) Dip

Dip Base:

• 2 8-ounce blocks of cream cheese, softened

• 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

Garnish:

• ½ bunch green onions, chopped

• 1 pint grape tomatoes halved or quartered OR fresh local tomatoes, chopped

For the dressing:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• ½ bunch greens onions, chopped

• A big handful of fresh basil, chopped

• 4 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic

NOTE: I sometimes use a pre-made balsamic glaze if I don’t have time to make the dressing.

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large mixing bowl combine cream cheese, feta and green onions. Blend until smooth and combined.

2. Form into a ball on a plate, making a well in the center. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days at this point.

3. Top with the chopped tomatoes, basil, additional green onions and some of the balsamic dressing. We serve it with pita chips or any kind of cracker.

HISTORY AND GHOST TOURS

Personalizing Pesto

SUBSTITUTIONS ALTER TRADITIONAL TASTE FOR A NEW EXPERIENCE.

BY BROOK HARLAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

Ilove basil and pesto, but I don’t always enjoy growing basil. I look forward to spring to have fresh basil leaves to use for caprese salad, topping on pizza or tossing into pasta. But I don’t look forward to the time of year when it starts to bolt to seed and you are left with more spindly flowers and very few leaves.

I always thought pesto could only be made with basil. However, about 15 years ago I saw a demo with a chef making pesto with arugula, and it was delicious. It had a great bite and texture, and arugula tends to be cheaper than basil.

This made me think about what else could be substituted in pesto. Pine nuts are commonly used in pesto but are one of the most expensive nuts (and not local to Missouri). I have had good luck with pecans in pesto, and they are available statewide.

This brought me to my next pesto substitution. Each year in late May or early June, a neighbor brings me garlic scapes. Hardneck garlic varieties have a scape that grows from the center of the stalk as a curl at first, then begins to straighten just before the end flowers to produce seeds. (Consider checking out the botanical definition of a scape sometime; they define it much better than I do.) Most hardneck garlic growers

cut off the scape just before the curl straightens. This is when the scape is most tender, as it becomes tough and woody to support the flower.

By harvesting the scape, the energy that the garlic would put into the flower can now be focused on the bulb. This can result in garlic bulbs that are 30 percent larger than if the scape was left on.

I would stir fry the scapes, use them with pasta or in omelets, or even pickle them. Then I came across someone substituting the scapes for basil in pesto. I decided to give it a try; it was a hit. The pungent garlic flavor comes through and the sturdy scapes process much easier than basil.

I was hooked. So much so that I started growing hardneck garlic the following year, a little for the garlic, but mostly for the scapes.

Unfortunately, by this time of year (unless you have saved some in your fridge as they save well for months), all of the garlic scapes are gone, but you can still make pesto with a variety of different ingredients, in case you might just be ready to rip out the rest of that pesky basil. You mostly want to judge how to make it based on taste, but what follows is a rough ratio that I use.

BY VOLUME:

• 4 parts green things (basil, scapes, arugula)

• 1 part nuts (pecans, pine nuts, almonds)

• 1 part Parmesan (another hard sharp cheese could be substituted)

• 1 to 2 parts olive oil

• Lemon juice to taste - ½ to ¾ part

• Salt to taste

GREENS

Basil (leaves and softer parts of the stem) is traditional, but garlic scapes, green garlic, wild garlic, arugula, parsley, spinach, kale, asparagus, cilantro, mint and probably any other green you want to try can be used. Some items may lend to a milder pesto with a vibrant color if blanched. I prefer a strong taste, but blanching will help set and preserve the chlorophyll to give it a more vibrant green color. Depending on what type of green you are using (less time for leaves, more time for stalks), blanch by plunging the items in boiling water for 10 to 60 seconds, then immediately into ice water. You will notice the color becomes much more vibrant. This will make the flavor milder but have a much brighter color for longer.

NUTS

Pine nuts are not the only way to add texture to a pesto. Most other nuts (including pecans, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds) will substitute well to make pesto. The nuts help give body and flavor, and lightly toasting, then cooling, will help develop even more flavor. If you have a nut allergy, don’t fret. The texture and flavor also can be mimicked by substituting toasted breadcrumbs. Lightly toast or fry the breadcrumbs in olive oil until they become golden brown. Cool and then substitute as normal in the recipe.

CHEESE

Parmigiano-Reggiano is king for making pesto, but you can use a variety of different, less expensive cheeses. Pecorino Romano, aged cheddar, aged feta, Asiago, ricotta salata or any other aged hard cheese. If dairy is the issue, you can just add in some more nuts; if you want to add back in some of that cheesy flavor, try adding a bit of nutritional yeast.

ACID

Lemon juice is most common as it has a great flavor that does not overpower the other ingredients. But if you are wanting to highlight the flavor of other acids, consider trying lime juice, grapefruit juice, white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or verjus (the pressed juice of unripened grapes). Along the same lines, adding in some picked things you have might do the trick, such as capers, pickles or olives.

PROCESS

Typically, the making of pesto is done one of two different ways, either in a mortar and pestle or a food processor. If you have a mortar, this will work well to make a small amount, maybe just for your dinner. If you want to do a cup to a quart, I recommend a food processor. Prep all of your items and have them measured, cooled and ready. I prefer to start with nuts, cheese and lemon juice, as I find it is harder to over-process them. Then you can add the basil (or other green) and olive oil, and adjust to taste. This prevents the basil from being overworked and turning brown. Most residential food processors should only handle a quart or quart and a half of pesto (I know they say it can handle more than that trust me). If you are making more than that, do it in smaller batches and mix at the end. This will allow you to process the batches easier and prevent the basil/greens from being overworked and turning brown.

STORE

Fresh pesto made with basil will last two or three days in the refrigerator. It freezes well but does not do well going in and out of the freezer multiple times. I find with garlic scape pesto or green garlic pesto, the color stays much more vibrant even after a few times freezing and thawing. When I am making a large batch, I find it easiest to get the smallest mason jars I have, then freeze them. With a high enough percentage of oil, the lemon juice is the only moisture in the pesto, and I have not had issues with expansion and jars breaking while freezing.

USE

While my preferred method of consumption is pesto spread on a piece of fresh bread or flatbread, there are a multitude of other ways to consume it. Here are a few ways to use pesto, but I am sure you can find more beyond the list below:

• Tossed with pasta;

• Spread for sandwich or wrap;

• Sauce for cooked meats;

• Replace tomato sauce with pesto when making pizza;

• Add to soup;

• Toss with roasted vegetables;

• Add to pasta salad;

• Make a pesto compound butter;

• Add to eggs;

• Dip for raw veggies;

• Add to roasted or mashed potatoes;

• Add to stuffed mushrooms;

• Add to baked mac and cheese;

• Add to grilled cheese; or

• Use in place of basil in a caprese salad.

PESTO

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ cup pecans, toasted (or other nuts)

• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated or chopped and packed

• Juice of 2 to 3 lemons (adjust at the end with more as needed)

• 2 cups basil, roughly chopped (garlic scapes, green garlic, arugula or other green can be used instead)

• ½-1 cup olive oil (pour from the bottle as needed while blending)

• Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Lightly toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat; just until they become aromatic, which should take about three or four minutes. Remove from the pan and cool.

Measure out your other ingredients. Add the toasted nuts, parmesan, half of the lemon juice and a big pinch of salt, then blend until smooth.

Add in the basil (or other green) and blend until mostly smooth. Then slowly add in the olive oil in a thin stream as the pesto is blending.

Once it is slightly more fluid than creamy peanut butter, stop blending and adjust with salt and more lemon juice as needed.

Serve and enjoy or store until you are ready to use.

Irene’s Piña Colada

(At Home Edition)

FOR PIÑA COLADA MIX:

• One can of unsweetened coconut cream (400 ml)

• 1 ³/₄ cups sugar

• 2 ounces canned pineapple, either sliced or chunked

FOR PIÑA COLADA:

• 2 cups of ice

• 1 cup of rum, unspiced

• 1-2 ounces of pineapple liqueur (optional)

• Juice of one lime

• 12 ounces of housemade piña colada mix

TO MAKE THE DRINK:

Start with the piña colada mix by adding sugar and the entire can of coconut cream in a small pot. Over low heat, break up chunks of coconut in the pan to allow it to melt fast.

Once completely melted, add sugar to pot and stir until all the sugar is dissolved. Take off heat and add to blender.

Strain the juice from the canned pineapple and add the pineapple chunks to the blender. (TIP: Reserve the liquid from the can as you may want to add it back into the blender if the puree is too thick. It also is great in sparkling water.)

Blend mixture completely and let chill in fridge until cold. Or pour mixture into 1 ounce ice molds and let freeze. Mixture is good in the freezer for up to one month. To make the piña colada itself, combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth and serve.

A Sweet Escape

GET A TASTE OF THE TROPICS.

BY BERRICK WAHBY · PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON

We knew from the start that frozen drinks had to be a part of the bar program at Irene’s. Austin, Texas, was a huge inspiration for us and anyone who has been there knows that the frozen cocktail reigns just as high as tattoos, tech startups and barbecue.

But for me, this stemmed from one simple question: “Where in town can you get a good piña colada?” Seriously, it’s one of the most famous cocktails ever (thanks to vacations and Rupert Holmes), yet unavailable for us good folks of mid-Missouri.

That is, until now! We’re real proud of it.

Although not in the name, the most important part of a piña colada is rum. At Irene’s, we couldn’t really settle on one rum. Or two. Or even three. We actually use four rums:

• Plantation light rum (which we infuse with leftover pineapple cores that the kitchen would usually throw away);

• Plantation aged rum (which adds those delicious barrel notes of vanilla and caramel);

• Plantation pineapple rum (which is infused with pineapples before it is distilled and aged — this stuff is awesome); and

• Uruapan Charanda Blanco rum. (Made in Michoacán, Mexico from cane sugar juice and molasses, this ingredient adds a delicious funk with powerful tropical aromas and flavor. Bonus: it’s also very affordable.)

To get that pineapple taste to come through, we use Giffard Caribbean Pineapple Liqueur and Fruitful Pineapple Liqueur, which add the sweetened ripeness of fresh pineapple.

All these spirits are added into a blender with ice and our housemade “piña colada mix cubes.” These cubes are made by blending sugar, pineapple and coconut cream, then freezing into an ice mold. This way the blended drink can stay cold and frozen without adding too much ice.

Now, I understand this is a lot to get to for one cocktail, so the accompanying recipe is a simplified version better suited to an evening at home.

Berrick Wahby is the general manager and bar director at Irene’s.

HANDS FREE DRIVING

Texting and driving will no longer be legal in Missouri for those over the age of 21 once Gov. Mike Parson signs House Bill 398. If signed into law, the bill, which would go into effect Aug. 28, would require hands-free phone use while driving and make texting while driving a secondary offense in Missouri, meaning officers could not cite drivers without pulling them over for a different offense first. Currently, Missouri is one of only two states without the ban. What do you think of the bill — long overdue or totally unnecessary?

Musical Memory

WHOSE MIND CAN REMEMBER THE LYRICS?

Each issue, two on-air talents from two different Zimmer Communications’ stations will take on a seemingly simple challenge to see who comes out on top. This issue, Kristin from Y107 and Tim Taylor from 96.7 KCMQ went head-to-head to see who can finish the lyric the best. Make sure you visit insidecolumbia.net to see video of the full challenge!

THE CHALLENGE

Both contestants will have to attempt to finish the lyric from 10 songs, chosen from a mix of Top 40 and classic rock. One person will say the first lyric, and the other will have to correctly fill in the second part of the lyric within 30 seconds to get a point. The person with the highest score at the end of the game will be declared the winner!

THE CONTENDERS

Tim from 96.7 KCMQ came into the challenge clear-headed and confident, while Kristin from Y107 was nervous, sure her husband and competitor would come out on top in this competition.

THE OUTCOME

After missing the first lyric challenge, Tim put Kristin in a good spot to take the lead, much to her surprise. Even more surprising for Tim was that this challenge was turning out to be, well, challenging. The ball kept rolling for Kristin, who eventually racked up five points to Tim’s one. But right before the final buzzer, Tim managed to go out with a bang and score one final point, bringing his total to two. It wasn’t enough to beat Kristin, but his dedication to stay in the game scored big in everyone’s hearts.

I thought Tim was going to smoke me on this one, so I am a little proud of myself right now honestly.

I am just going to sit in a corner in my shame.

Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre Backstage Pass

The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre hosted the Backstage Pass event April 31. The Lyceum Theatre's Producers Society members were made honorary actors for the day, entering through the stage door and signing in on the actors' callboard. Members enjoyed a cocktail reception, toured dressing rooms and the orchestra pit, as well as scene and costume shops, where everything is built from scratch. They then were given a seat on stage for a presentation highlighting all the skills needed to bring a production to life. The Lyceum's Producers Society was formed in 2004 and has more than 130 members who help keep the theater alive through their philanthropic commitment.

Date April 31

Location

The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre

Photos by Lyceum Theatre staff

Nancy Griggs, Steve Bertani and Dave Griggs

Terry Berkley and Dana Frink

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The Big Derby Party

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri hosted the eighth annual Derby Day Party, sponsored by EquipmentShare, May 6 at the Country Club of Missouri. The event, which allows patrons to experience the pageantry of the Kentucky Derby with signature food and drinks, as well as a live auction, raised $50,000 to support mentoring in central Missouri.

Date May 6 Location Country Club of Missouri

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

David Beach and Kelsey Lyman

Amy McKenzie and Stacia Coughenour

Daki and Lauren Chabaya

Stephanie Rosskopf, Kim Moore and Tamara Kopp

Izzie Leatherman and John Fabsits

Chip in Fore the Kids Golf Tournament

The eighth annual First State Community Bank Chip in Fore the Kids Golf Tournament was held May 8 at the Columbia Country Club. The event, presented by Manor Roofing & Restoration Services, raised more than $43,000 to support the Boys and Girls Clubs of Columbia.

Date May 8 Location Columbia Country Club

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

Nicholas Orscheln, Craig Riordan, John Findley, Kevin Clark

Sean Cotten, Deric Lear, Mark Smelser, Terry Enyart

Tyler Bales, Brett Bales, Matthew Vanderlicht, Ashley Shewmake

Richard King, Jim Robertson, Bill Sheals, Gary Moore

Adam Guy, Bob Tye, Camille Griffin, Tony Hudson

18th annual Boone County Spring Fling

The Mizzou Alumni Association held the 18th annual Boone County Spring Fling on May 17 at Shiloh Bar & Grill. The event included live music from C. Rock City, an opportunity to meet Boone County scholarship recipients for the upcoming year and a silent auction that raised funds for future scholarships.

Date May 17 Location

Shiloh Bar & Grill

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

Darlene Johnson, Gary Tatlow and Janet Crosby

Maryanne McCollum and Jackie Clark

Edward and Karen Price

Patsy Dalton and Leonard Manson

Jason and Ellen Young

Gene and Deborah Twellman

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A New View

BEING A PHOTOGRAPHER, I HAVE ACCESS TO SOME UNIQUE POINTS OF VIEW IN THE COMMUNITY

Assignment: Roaming

The Location: Shelbyville, Missouri

My family owns some farmland just outside of Shelbyville. We use the land for hunting and fishing, and usually harvest hay on a big chunk of the property.

This year, we decided not to harvest hay and instead let nature do what she wants with the land.

So when I stopped by this summer to check on the fish in the pond, I was surprised to see the number of flowers that have taken over the field we used to harvest. For as long as we have had the land, I had no idea that those

wildflowers were hiding in the grass.

I felt a little inspired from the sight. After all, it’s easy to keep doing the same thing every year. Some find comfort in knowing things will be predictable.

But while doing something different can be a little unnerving, the results can be beautiful.

I think I’m going to embrace the different.

L.G. Patterson

Faith, Family, Friends

MELODY PARRY’S LEGACY WAS SERVING OTHERS.

On May 23, 2023, I lost my best friend and co-conspirator with the passing of Inside Columbia magazine’s publisher Melody Garnett Parry. We had been married for 30 years and her absence is deeply felt. Beyond the loss felt by myself and our two sons, our community has lost a great leader and an exuberant cheerleader.

I first met Melody at the University of Missouri in the fall semester of 1985. We were both students in Henry Hager’s advertising copywriting class at the Missouri School of Journalism. I like to tell people that Melody won the lottery when it came to that particular semester’s seating chart, as she had the great distinction of sitting between the class clown and the class stud that semester. On one side was Fred Parry and on the other side was a guy named Brad Pitt.

None of us knew it at the time, but one of those guys would go on to meet his destiny entertaining her on the silver screen, and the other would one day meet his destiny shopping for her groceries, cooking her meals and washing her car.

Brad Pitt would go on to become a billionaire, date Gwyneth Paltrow and marry Jennifer Aniston and Angelina Jolie, but it was Fred Parry who took home the gold and won life’s lottery.

Melody’s foundational cornerstones were faith, family and lifelong friendships. These three things were her superpowers. In the outpouring of condolences received in recent weeks are the common themes of joy, laughter, kindness and selflessness.

Not only was Melody an outstanding human being, but she also was a savvy businesswoman. She went above and beyond the call of duty for her clients just as

she did for the readers of her magazines.

Everything she did was with humility and modesty. She didn’t boast about her accomplishments or resume. Before joining Inside Columbia, Melody was the founder of Outfront Communications, a successful marketing and public relations firm. She co-founded 15 award-winning magazines as part of her 37-year career in public relations, marketing and publishing.

Melody was the founder of the annual Columbia Christian Women’s Conference and hosted the National Speaking of Women’s Health conferences in Columbia for several years. She founded the Women’s Health Care Alliance, which helped educate women about their own health while providing financial support to many worthwhile organizations in our community. She served on numerous boards including True North, the American Heart Association, INVEST, LOVE Columbia and the Columbia Independent School. She co-chaired the capital campaign that doubled the capacity of The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri.

Melody had a servant’s heart. She organized several mission trips to Malawi, Africa, to serve widows and orphans devastated by the AIDS epidemic. When refugees escaping genocide in Myanmar relocated to Columbia, Melody eagerly adopted a family and helped them acclimate to a new culture.

In addition to her generous heart for others, Melody had an amazing and adventurous spirit. She was a proud member of the Show Me Pickleball Club and was a “beast” on the court. She hiked the Grand Canyon, ran the Chicago Marathon, bicycled across the state of Missouri and won a limbo contest on a

BY FRED PARRY

cruise ship when she was five months pregnant. She loved to travel, hike up mountains and once surfed the infamous Witch’s Rock in Costa Rica. She was willing to do all the crazy things her sons challenged her to do.

Melody loved her Zimmer Communications family and they loved her back. When we sold this magazine to the Zimmers in 2017, Melody was welcomed with open arms. She loved the culture at Zimmer and quickly made it her goal to win the annual Halloween costume and Christmas door decorating contests every year. She always looked forward to going to work and made great friends there.

One of Melody’s legacies will be the example she set for living life to the fullest and not wasting a single minute. Even with two bouts of cancer and a sudden lung disease that quickly took her life, she NEVER complained. She had a sunny perspective and cared more for the people around her than her own problems.

At the end of her life, Melody had very few regrets. She had accomplished so many things, touched so many lives and if Melody loved you, you knew it. Her life was shorter than we had hoped, but it was a GREAT life and a life truly lived to its fullest.

What a wonderful gift it was to have known her and loved her. She will be missed by many.

In the meantime, we will take comfort in the assurance that we will see her again.

Godspeed, sweet Melody!

Fred Parry Founder & Publisher Emeritus fred@insidecolumbia.net