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.