Inside Columbia Magazine - November/December 2024

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Catering from Como Smoke & Fire

52

CROWD-PLEASING CATERERS EXPLORE COLUMBIA’S CATERING SCENE

64

68 CHIC BOUTIQUE MOM-TREPRENEUR SET TO OPEN NEW SHOP

KEEPING CIVIL NAVIGATE DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS WITH LOVED ONES

from the editor

Happy Holidays

FINDING JOY AND COMFORT IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Zola Heck Editor | zcrowder@mailzimmer.com

My favorite time of the year is finaly here! From the Christmas flvors and decorations to cozy matching pajamas and time with family, for me, nothing can beat the holiday season. Being from California, I love watching the seasons truly change, seeing the snowfall and bundling up, rather than seeing the temperatures drop from 75 to 72 degrees in the winter. Something always put me in the holiday spirit no matter the temperature outside, was watching all my favorite Christmas movies leading up to Christmas. As our family grows with new spouses and in-laws, we have started to incorporate everyone’s favorite Christmas movies during the countdown to make sure, while we all might not be home, everyone is able to feel the magic of Christmas in their own way. And yes, that includes some cheesy Hallmark movies, of course.

While this season can be full of joy for some, it can also be a season that brings added stress or emotional challenges. In this issue, we’re shining a light on something that often goes unspoken on pages 68-71, and the importance of caring for our relationships during the winter months. Of course, the holidays are also a time to get together with family, friends and coworkers, and what better way to bring people together than with delicious, locally catered meals? On pages 52-63, we’ve rounded up the best winter event catering options right here in Columbia. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or a festive corporate event, you’ll findthe perfect local place that will help make your occasion memorable. As we embrace this season, let’s remember to check in with ourselves and each other, and findjoy in the big and small moments. So, grab your coziest matching pajama set, brew your favorite cup of tea and enjoy this holiday issue of Inside Columbia magazine!

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Carla Leible carla@mailzimmer.com

FOUNDERS

Fred & Melody Parry fred@mailzimmer.com

EDITOR Zola Heck zcrowder@mailzimmer.com

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Jane Steinbrecher jsteinbrecher@mailzimmer.com

Bailey Rizzo brizzo@mailzimmer.com

ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimme.com

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madelyn Jones mjones@mailzimmer.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Sara Fougere, Brook Harlan, Ava Kitzi, Wally Pfeffer, Nancy Noalson, Kimber Dean, Rance Burger, Jack Wax, Kimberly Blaker, Paul Froeschle

what’s online...

Enjoy additional digital content on our website and social media.

BEATS, BATTLES & BEST MOMENTS

Our local radio talents have had quite the year, battling each other in events like corn hole and axe throwing – yep, we gave axes to our DJs. See our compilation of Dueling DJs superlatives on page 123, and if you missed any of the competitions, don’t worry! They are available on our website at insidecolumbia.net.

CATERED WITH CARE

Holiday gatherings and parties are just around the corner, and whether it's a family of four or a company of over 100, everyone will have a big appetite. Save yourself from the stress of cooking by opting for a local catering business. See pages 52-63 for a deep dive on all of the options available and check out our Instagram and Facebook pages for a compilation of delicious catered meals.

#INSIDECOLUMBIA

With the fall season comes more time indoors, and what better way to spend that time than with a warm drink and a good book? To help you select the best book for the season, we talked to a local bookseller who gave several recommendations. Check out pages 30-31 for those book recs and head to Skylark Bookshop to pick up your next read. Snap a photo and post it on Instagram using #insidecolumbia by Dec. 15. We’ll pick from the submissions and award the winner a FREE one-year subscription to Inside Columbia!

Inside Columbia Staff

ADVERTISING COORDINATORS

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MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES

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Tyler Morrison tmorrison@mailzimmer.com

OFFICE MANAGER

Becky James rjames@mailzimmer.com

DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE

Steve Leible

INSIDE COLUMBIA MAGAZINE

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

Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Postage paid at Columbia, Mo. Not responsible for omissions or information, which has been misrepresented to the magazine.

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ON THE TOWN

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

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Inside Columbia Advisory Board

Get to know our Inside Columbia Advisory Board members! We are thrilled to have such a talented group of individuals from all different industries in the community joining us to help shape the future of our publication. Their expertise across several professions and unique perspectives in the Columbia community will be invaluable as we continue to provide the best content for you, our readers.

OTHER

Amanda Alcamo Restoration Chiropractic

Andrea Lyn Seppo Andrea Lyn Events

Ashleigh Stundebeck Select Realty Group

Sue Schwinke State Farm Insurance

Claire Dinwiddie Buchroeders Jewelers

Dakota Owens Koda’s Fit Kitchen

MEMBERS NOT PICTURED ABOVE

Erica Smithers RE/MAX Boone Realty

Jennifer Heidrich Bronze by Design

Jessica Caldera Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer

Jenny Dewar Pure Barre Columbia

Mackenzie Wells Mackenzie Wells Fitness

Jill Newton Volunteer

MJ Smith Department of Emergency Medicine, MU School of Medicine

Stephanie Witthar CenterPointe Hospital of Columbia

22

The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1961, and 2024 marks their 10th season of presenting Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, A Christmas Carol, replete with dazzling scenery and costumes and delightful holiday music. And they have some tricks up their sleeves to make this year’s 10th anniversary production extra special.

Explore the culture, shopping, dining, B&Bs, and natural beauty of the historic Village of Arrow Rock before entering The Lyceum lobby (that began as a 19th century church), grab a hot chocolate at the beverage bar, then relax into the new theatre seats in their intimate 416-seat auditorium.

Tickets for A Christmas Carol are available now at LyceumTheatre.org or 660-837-3311.

Senior, student/child, and public safety discounts are available, as well as special pricing for groups of 10 or more.

MAGICAL MOMENTS

Whether you are downtown, in West Columbia or on the outskirts of our city, there is a place for you to view the magic of Christmas. You can see the original Magic Tree draw people from all over mid-Missouri with each branch carefully wrapped with mini lights at 2100 Cherry Hill Drive or head to The Crossing to view nearly 200,000 colorful lights illuminating the 85-foot tree. If you are more into the downtown scene, you can also see a miniature version on the corner of 9th and Broadway.

Bee the Change

LOCAL MAKER STICKS TO HELPING THE PLANET WITH BEESWAX.

BY ZOLA HECK · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

For some people, being ecofriendly may seem like too much of a challenge. A lot of people have an all-or-nothing mindset when in reality, it can be just about making minor changes to your everyday life to help the planet. For over a year, Kristy Jackson, the maker and owner of Momma Bee Love Wraps, has been creating handcrafted beeswax wraps to help the community embrace sustainable living that blends creativity, eco-consciousness and practicality. “People think that because you start using a beeswax wrap, you have to go all in and that you can't have any more plastic in your kitchen, but that’s not true,” Jackson says. “I think it's important for people to know that you can just do small things. Just because you get one beeswax wrap doesn't mean you have to only use beeswax wraps.” It’s all about finding th right fit for you to add to your daily routine to help make a difference. For Jackson, finding her per ect fit came after retiring as a hairdresser after ten years due to a shoulder injury, when she came across the idea of making beeswax wraps. Jackson quickly found that the process came easy to her as it was similar to her hairdressing days. “When I was looking into the process of how to do them, it's so similar to doing hair, really; there's a lot of measuring and cutting,” she says. “And then the beeswax

mixture that goes into it is, I would call it alchemy. It's kind of hard to get the perfect ratio of ingredients. And then applying the mixture is very much like doing hair.” Jackson still gets the satisfaction of seeing an end product, all while making a difference in someone else’s life and the planet. “Just working with my hands and having a finished poduct is amazing,” she says. “My favorite thing was doing a full head of blonde highlights because you are transformed afterward. And so, it feels like, with this cotton fabric, this was just folded up on the JOANN’s fabric store shelf, and now it's here, and this is going to last for a couple of years.”

The beeswax wraps are used as an alternative to plastic wrap, which is perfect for leftover food from the holidays, including vegetables, cheese, bread, muffins and frts. It can even be used as a Tupperware lid. “I keep them on my counter. I have a little basket that I roll them up and keep them in so it's easier to access,” she says. “When you're packing up your leftovers you just grab it, put it on your leftovers, and you don't have to fuss with the lids in your drawer.” Jackson says the only thing not to use it on is raw meat. “But if someone was taking home a leftover plate with all the ‘fixins’ that is totally okay.”

The first step to making this

environmentally friendly product is to pick out the cotton fabric. “I try to go with really happy, bright yellows, oranges and florals.” Jackson then cuts the fabric into small, medium and large sizes before coating the fabric in a mixture of beeswax, tree resin and jojoba oil. “It’s hard to get the mixture perfect, because tree resin is hard, and you have to buy it in powder form or make it into powder form,” Jackson says. “And getting that to melt into the beeswax is really, really hard, and it takes a couple of days.” Then with just a little bit of heat from your hands, the cotton fabric turns into the perfect grab-and-go storage option when packing up your holiday dinner to keep everything fresh for a longer period compared to plastic wrap. “Let's say you chop your cucumber and you put plastic on it, yeah, it's going to get mushy over a couple of days and just kind of gross. But with the beeswax wraps, just put it on top of the cucumber, and because it's cotton, it's a little bit breathable, so it does keep your food fresher for longer,” Jackson says. “And then beeswax is naturally antimicrobial, so it keeps the germs away and will keep your cheese from molding fast.” The best part is one wrap can last two years, compared to a single use when using plastic wrap. All you have to do in between uses is dunk it in cold water and lay it out to dry. Jackson says not to clean with hot

water or lots of soap as it may cause the coating to melt off, making the poduct less sticky. “If you do get a little bit of like mayonnaise or stickiness, you can use a tiny bit of dish soap in the pad of your fingers and use the soft sde of a sponge. But mostly, if you just dunk it in the water and pull it out, it just comes right off. The Columbia community has caught on to this eco-friendly product like wildfie, helping Jackson kickstart her business more quickly than she was expecting. “It was actually bigger than I thought it would be when I first started,” she says. “My first evet was The Zipper Fest, and I sold out.” She says the community has been pouring love into her business since the very beginning. “The community here in Columbia is so welcoming to small businesses, and especially a product like this that's reusable, compostable and good for the environment,” Jackson says. “Everybody loves them.”

If you want a beeswax wrap of your own, you can find omma Bee Love Wraps at local markets, at Main Squeeze and soon on her new Etsy shop. To stay up-to-date on all of Jackson’s work and to get information on her Etsy shop, visit @mommabeelove_towelsthatmatter on Instagram and Momma Bee Love Wraps on Facebook.

Magic Meets Melancholy

LOCAL BOOKSELLER RECOMMENDS READS FOR WINTER.

BY BAILEY RIZZO · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

The season of giving is upon us, which also brings cooler temperatures and time off work. And what will you do with that extra time spent indoors? We suggest grabbing a cup of coffee and settling into your favorite comfy chair with a good book. In the interest of kicking off the giving season, w're partnering with a local bookseller to give you a thoughtfully curated list of books to help you get ready for the holidays. Matthew May has been in the

bookselling industry for almost five ears at Skylark Bookshop. With a degree in English and early aspirations of being a librarian, literature has always been a passion for May.

“Anyone who loves books has probably said they want to work in a bookshop at one point,” he says. “When the opportunity opened up at Skylark, I knew this is what I wanted to do. It’s a wonderful way to make a living.”

With this, May credits book- and literature-related jobs as some of the

most important things that can be done as a society.

“Creating and consuming literature are some of the most important parts of being human,” he says. “It’s all about the ability to tell stories, have new ideas, encounter them in ways we normally wouldn’t and just have a lot of fun while doing it.”

As an independent bookstore, Skylark is able to brand itself as a community of booksellers and booklovers, rather than just a building that sells books.

“The owner, (Alex George), knows literature in a way that blows my mind, so we have this very curated selection that is one of the best book selections that I’ve ever encountered,” May says. “We hear that a lot from our customers. People come in and are blown away by what we do with a limited space.”

While the final moths of the year are typically seen as an ending, May believes it is the best time to reflect and dive into something new.

“We think of spring as a time of rebirth, and it is, but flowers don’t bloom unless you plant that seed,” he says. “I think winter is the best time to be planting those seeds so you’re actually entering into something new.”

May describes his book niches as “horror and cozy fantasy;” in other words, books that make you feel a range of emotions from comfort to despair. With this in mind, his book recommendations take a slight turn from what might traditionally be considered fitting for the holiday season.

First up is “Practical Magic” by Alice Hoffman, hich is a bewitching tale of two sisters, who come from a long line of witches cursed with tragic love. As they navigate the challenges of their magical heritage and the complexities of their own lives, they find stength in family and self-acceptance. “It’s just cozy, and the themes of generational family bonds and enchantment complement the warm qualities of the end-of-year months,” May says.

A classic, “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë is a dark and passionate tale of intense love and revenge set on the bleak, windswept Yorkshire moors. The story revolves around the turbulent relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, exloring themes of obsession and the destructive power of unbridled emotions. The brooding atmosphere makes it a perfect

read for the impending winter season, as the cold, dark days mirror the novel’s intense, haunting tone.

In “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune, we meet Linus Baker, a social worker who is assigned to oversee an orphanage for magical children on a mysterious island. As Linus uncovers the unique talents of the children and the warmth of their unconventional guardian, he experiences a profound transformation in his understanding of family and acceptance. This heartwarming novel provides a comforting escape with its themes of found family and magic.

Dan Simmons’ “The Terror” is a chilling historical horror novel based on a true story that details the ill-fated 19th-century Arctic expedition led by Captain Sir John Franklin, which becomes trapped in the ice while being stalked by a mysterious and malevolent creature. As the crew members face the brutal conditions of the frozen wasteland and the growing threat of the monstrous entity, their struggle for survival becomes a harrowing test

of endurance and sanity “It’s historical horror and it’s very bleak, but just as winter is a good time for family, it’s pretty bleak as well,” May says.

Finally, “Sea of Tranquility” by Emily St. John Mandel intertwines multiple timelines and characters, from a timetraveling detective in a dystopian future to an author grappling with the echoes of a mysterious pandemic. The novel explores themes of time, memory and the interconnectedness of human lives through a near-poetic narrative. Its reflective nature offers an escape that complements the introspective and quiet moments of the colder months. May describes the author’s writing as “incredibly intricate” and “absolutely phenomenal,” and would recommend any of her books.

These books can be purchased at Skylark Bookshop in downtown Columbia, where shoppers will also fin a staff dedcated to finding the perect book for everyone who walks through the door.

Magical Mannequins

THE DISTRICT HOSTS LIVING WINDOWS FESTIVAL.

BY BAILEY RIZZO · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

Storefront windows aren’t just for mannequins, merchandise or signage. When the winter season comes, windows in downtown Columbia businesses undergo a shift from highlighted clothing and company logos, right into a winter wonderland.

An event special to Columbia for over 20 years, the Living Windows festival is coming to town Friday, Dec. 6. from 6-9 p.m., Columbia residents and visitors can attend the biggest festival of the year to welcome the winter holiday.

Businesses in The District will transform their storefront windows into live displays using employees. Instead of using traditional mannequins, real people act as living sculptures. They might hold poses or engage in movements that relate to the theme of the business or the holiday concept.

“The creativity is just astounding,” CID Executive Director Nickie Davis says. “What these small businesses are able to put together and bring to life in their windows is incredible. It’s a display for everyone to appreciate.”

The District is designed to service

all things small business. This includes parking, trash pickup, writing grants, marketing and event planning. You name it, they deal with it, according to Davis.

“Living Windows is the District’s biggest festival of the year,” Davis says. “Thousands of people attend and it’s really just a wonderful event for everyone to enjoy.”

My Secret Garden, a local flower shop, has participated in Living Windows since its fruition.

“My mother is the founder of My Secret Garden, so I was actually in the window when I was in high school and college,” co-owner and manager Jessica LaHueSpherex says. “It’s a longstanding tradition that we love to be a part of. It's our gift to the community to get into the holiday spirit and it’s always a magical evening.”

One of Davis’ biggest recommendations for residents eager to attend the event is to make a whole day of it.

“I think one of the biggest things that you can do to help yourself have fun with this event is get downtown early, so maybe you go shopping, do an activity, grab some Sparky’s ice cream and then have dinner

somewhere,” she said. “Around that dinner time is when the windows will start.”

A list of participating businesses and a map will be posted on the District’s website. The map will outline a recommended walking path to ensure attendees don’t miss any of the windows or activities.

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What’s Going On

THE EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW.

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

November

NOV. 2

HOLIDAY SHOP HOP

THE DISTRICT - DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA

This all-day event will include special offers and refreshments from downtown retailers for your every shopping need. Horse-drawn carriage rides will also be available and stick around for the lighting of The District with a digital Enchanted Forest feature. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; free; discoverthedistrict.com/ events/holiday-shop

NOV. 7

GIRLS NIGHT OUT

TOASTY GOAT COFFEE CO.

The third event of Heart of Missouri Women’s Show Girls Night Out Pop-Up Series is here! Bring your appetite and get ready to taste some fantastic food and coffee pairings while Tina Balser speaks on How to Thrive During the Holidays.

7 - 9:30 p.m.; $40; allevents.in/columbia/ november-girls-night-out

NOV. 14

COMO COMEDY CLUB: DREW LYNCH

THE BLUE NOTE

Ready to laugh until you cry? Comedian and actor Drew Lynch is coming to town. After getting the Golden Buzzer and earning the Runner-Up title of America’s Got Talent Season 10, Lynch has been performing sold-out shows around the world.

7 p.m.; $35 - $45; thebluenote.com/event/ drew-lynch/

NOV. 17

CURATED. CRAFTED. CREATED. MAKERS MARKET

COLUMBIA MALL PARKING LOT

Join over 70 local artisans and makers for a winter market, dedicated to supporting small businesses by bringing the community together to shop local, crafty creations. This is the perfect opportunity to buy a uniquely made gift for the holidays.

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; free; visitcolumbiamo.com/ event/holiday-24

NOV. 23

THE JANUARY LANTERNS + GOLDPINE ROSE MUSIC HALL

Missouri-based husband and wife duo, The January Lanterns, will be performing at Rose

Music Hall with alongside fellow Missouri band, Goldpine. Both The January Lanterns and Goldpine have honed an introspective, candid sound, focusing on bold harmonies and folk chord progressions.

7 p.m.; $12-15; rosemusichall.com/event/thejanuary-lanterns-goldpine

NOV. 28

GALLOPING GOBBLER 5K, 10K & 15K VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

Thanksgiving is the biggest running day in America — join the fun with the 14th annual Galloping Gobbler! With timed 5K, 10K, 15K and Kids Drumstick Dash, there’s a race for everyone. This event benefits the Friday Backpack program by Hope Alliance of Missouri.

8 a.m.; $30-$60; gobbler.itsyourrace.com

NOV. 30

MIZZOU VS. ARKANSAS FAUROT FIELD

The Missouri Tigers will be defending their Battleline title against rival Arkansas Razorbacks once again. Come support the Tigers at home by wearing your best black Mizzou gear! TBA; $110-291; mutigers.com

December

DEC. 6

LIVING WINDOWS

THE DISTRICT – DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA

Enjoy the annual Living Windows Festival, featuring live performances, open houses, shopping, holiday decor, free horse-drawn carriages, the Enchanted Forest and visits with Santa. 6 - 8 p.m.; free; discoverthedistrict.com/events/living-windows-2

DEC. 7

CITY OF REFUGE HOLIDAY MARKET

10 N. GARTH AVE.

Get in the giving spirit with the Holiday Market, showcasing local and refugee artisan work. Food, beverage, entertainment and a visit from Santa will be included. All proceeds go toward City of Refuge refugee care and programming.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; free; cityofrefugecolumbia.org/event/holiday-market/

DEC. 12

MERRY OL’ MISSOURI HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

MISSOURI THEATRE

Produced by Show Me Theatricals, the holiday spectacular is fun for the whole family. With singing, dancing, live music, acrobats, confetti and theatrical lighting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

7 - 8:30 p.m.; $20 - $50 (free for kids 5 & under); merryolmissouri.com/

DEC. 15

SHOW ME REPTILES

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL

Calling all herpetology enthusiasts, critter lovers and reptile aficionados: this event will feature a variety of reptiles on display, as well as opportunities to hold a scaly friend. Some reptiles will be up for adoption to go to a loving home.

10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; $5 - $15; showmereptileshow.com/columbia-missouri

DEC. 15

MISSOURI SYMPHONY: HOLIDAY MARKET

MISSOURI THEATRE

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with symphony performances of holiday favorites from around the world, Broadway and Hollywood. Purchase tickets online, over the phone or at the box office an hour before show time.

2 - 4 p.m.; $10 - $39; themosy.org/calendar/holiday-market

DEC. 19

THE KAY BROTHERS CHRISTMAS

THE BLUE NOTE

Get into the holiday spirit with the Kay Brothers’ Christmas show at the Blue Note. The Ozark-based band uses fiddles banjos, washboards, guitars and more to create comforting, familiar rural music that is sure to connect you to your roots.

7 p.m.; $12-25; thebluenote.com/event/the-kay-brothers-christmas

THAT’S A WRAP

You’ve brainstormed for months, scoured the stores and finally ound the perfect gift for your loved one. But the problem is, wrapping is not your strong suit. Luckily, we found instructions from Country Living on how to wrap like a pro so nothing distracts from the perfect gift. To wrap, cut enough wrapping paper to cover the box, adhere with tape, fold and crease the paper around the box and neatly close both open ends. Finish by adding a ribbon, tying a bow and trimming the ribbon ends for a polished look.

Picture Perfect

TAKE YOUR IPHONE PHOTOS TO THE NEXT LEVEL.

The upcoming holiday season brings family gatherings, beautiful snow and scenes and other photo-worthy

1

SMUDGED LENS

opportunities. And while those memories are worth being preserved with whatever camera you have lying around, we’ve compiled a list of easy

BY AVA KITZI · PHOTOS BY AVA KITZI

ways to make your cell phone pictures look professional, polished and ready for Instagram.

Not even the best cookies can survive a smudged, goopy camera lens. Residue that collects from your fingers and other surfaces that your phone touches can make a big impact on your photo quality. To avoid foggy looking pictures, regularly wipe your phone’s camera lens with a microfiber towel or another cean piece of cloth.

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RULE OF 1/3s

To make your photos look more cinematic, try picturing a 3x3 grid on your screen. The human eye is naturally drawn to the intersections of these grid lines. By placing your subject along these lines — instead of in the very middle, for example — not only will your Facebook friends immediately be drawn to your grandson’s smiling face, but it also brings your surroundings into frame, whether it be your festive decorations or Little League medals.

Tip: iPhone users can bring the gridlines directly into their camera app for easy access! Go to settings > camera > toggle grid lines ON.

Always look for natural light as a tool in your budding photographer toolbox. When you take a picture directly facing a large, powerful light source, your subject will look less luminous and get blown out. By standing with your back to the light, so your subject is facing the window or sun, you automatically lighten your photo naturally.

Tip: For outside pictures, this strategy works best when the sun is either rising or setting. High noon is a tricky time for pictures, and often makes subjects look blown out and casts weird shadows on them. “Golden hour,” as the sun is setting, gets its name for a reason.

For candid shots, think critically about how your subject is interacting with the world around them and use that as an interesting focal point. For example, if you want to snap a picture of your grandmother making her famous pumpkin pie, consider using the pie as a center point of the photo to give your viewers context for the pie making skills being displayed.

Posing at big family gatherings can be a feat of its own, but by coaching your loved ones through a few simple changes, you can make the whole group look a little less stilted. First, try angling your subjects’ feet toward each other, not the camera. Then, make sure they’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder and not leaving massive gaps of space in between them.

Healthy Holidays

TIPS FOR MAKING HEALTHY MEALS FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS.

BY KIMBER DEAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

When it comes to planning the holiday family or friend event menu and executing it, I live for it! I absolutely love cooking large, healthy seasonal meals for my guests. Here’s a list of helpful tips that I use in my commercial kitchen with Happy Food Catering or at home for cooking your holiday meal event, along with mental health tips to help you stay calm and joyful throughout the process.

1. PLAN YOUR MENU IN ADVANCE

Choose dishes that can be prepped ahead and that cater to everyone’s dietary needs, from gluten-free, keto, dairy-free or vegan dishes so that you can make items that abide by all guidelines. So you only have to make each dish one way.

Mental Health Tip: Planning ahead and prioritizing inclusivity reduces stress, creates a sense of control and boosts your connection with them. Try to enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed.

2. BUY IN BULK FOR SPECIALTY HEALTH FOOD ITEMS

When planning a holiday meal for friends or family, consider buying in

bulk, especially for specialty health food items like gluten-free flour, dairy alternatives or organic produce. Some online options are nuts.com for nuts, spices, supplements, herbs, coconut sugar and dried fruits or Frontier Co-op for herbs and spices.

Mental Health Tip: Having all your ingredients ahead of time reduces last-minute stress and decision fatigue. Purchasing larger quantities not only saves money but also ensures you have enough on hand for meal prep, avoiding any last-minute grocery runs.

3. PREP AHEAD OF TIME

Chop veggies, break down meats, marinate proteins and prepare sauces a day or two before the event to save time and reduce stress.

Mental Health Tip: Break your prep into smaller tasks over several days to avoid last-minute panic. Take breaks in between for some deep breathing, journaling or a short walk.

4. COOK WHAT YOU KNOW

Stick to tried-and-true recipes, especially for the main dishes for better quality and time management or make sure you practice new recipes a couple of times before making them for the big day.

Mental Health Tip: Familiar dishes provide comfort and confidence, but new meals may be appreciated for dietary restrictions. Trust yourself!

5. MAKE A COOKING TIMELINE

Break down your cooking schedule into tasks that can be completed in the days leading up to the event. Allow yourself 10-20 minutes of extra time between items for any unforeseen clean-up or adjustments. On the day of, create a timeline for oven, stovetop and small

equipment use. Prioritize dishes based on cooking times, plan for oven-sharing by grouping items that cook at the same temperature and consider equipment like blenders or hand mixers that may need to be cleaned between uses. Don’t forget to factor in cooling times for items like cakes before adding frosting to avoid melting.

Mental Health Tip: Having a schedule helps relieve mental clutter and reduces anxiety. Having a list to cross off als releases serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Follow your timeline loosely to allow for flexibility without stress.

6. BATCH COOK

Prepare dishes that can serve larger groups easily, such as casseroles, stews or large roasts that can be sliced or shared with everyone.

Mental Health Tip: Simplifying your cooking with larger batch dishes lightens the workload and allows more time to relax and connect with loved ones.

7. SET THE TABLE EARLY

Get your table ready the night before or a few hours early, so you don’t have to worry about it last-minute. For a more casual event, use festive compostable, recyclable or paper utensils, napkins, servingware or plates for easy clean up.

Mental Health Tip: Setting the table early takes one more thing off our plate and gives you space to focus on your well-being and be present with your guests.

8. SERVE FAMILY STYLE

Instead of plating individually, let guests serve themselves from platters and bowls at the table. This saves time and creates a communal, cozy vibe.

Mental Health Tip: Family-style serving fosters a sense of community

and removes the pressure of perfection. It’s about connection, not perfection.

9. DON’T FORGET DRINKS & APPETIZERS

Make sure to have drinks, appetizers and snacks ready for guests to enjoy while they wait for the main meal. If appropriate for your event, these are great items to delegate to guests that want to bring something to contribute.

Mental Health Tip: Having easy appetizers ready allows you to focus on finishing the meal wthout feeling rushed. If you make them days prior, it also gives you time to breathe and relax.

10. HAVE LEFTOVER CONTAINERS

Be prepared with containers to send leftovers home with guests or freeze them for yourself to have prepared lunches or dinners!

Mental Health Tip: Leftovers not only reduce waste but also give you a break from cooking in the days following the event, which can help you recharge.

11. ENJOY THE PROCESS

Take time to enjoy the process of cooking and being with loved ones. Holiday meals are as much about connection as they are about the food!

Mental Health Tip: Focus on mindfulness during the process. Take deep breaths, and remember to enjoy the present moment, rather than stressing about the outcome.

Happy cooking, and take care of yourself along the way!

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.

ROLLS

INGREDIENTS:

2 ¼ cups water

¼ cup maple

2 tablespoons active dry yeast

DIRECTIONS:

¼ cup olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

2 ½ cups brown rice flou

2 cups arrowroot starch

¼ cup flax mea

1 tablespoon baking powder

2 teaspoons guar gum

1 teaspoon sea salt

1. Warm water maple to 100 degrees. Add yeast, warm water and maple to the standing mixer and stir. Let stand for 10 minutes. If the yeast is foaming, it is activating.

2. Place oil and apple cider vinegar in a separate bowl.

3. In a separate bowl add brown rice flou, arrowroot, flax meal, baking powde, guar gum and sea salt.

4. Add oil and vinegar to a standing mixer bowl and mix on speed one for 30 seconds.

5. Slowly add in dry mixture to wet mixture, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as you go. Once all ingredients are added, mix on speed one for two minutes. It should be the consistency of soft-serve ice cream.

6. Scoop batter into greased loaf or muffin pans evenl. Smooth the surface.

7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until you can stick a skewer in the middle of the bread and it comes out clean.

8. Cool completely on a cooling rack or ser ve warm.

Music Medley

6 SONGS TO KEEP LIFE INTERESTING.

BY SHANNON WELKER

WELCOME TO OUR ULTIMATE LISTS! In each issue, you will find a cuated selection of things to listen to or watch, put together by influeners in the community, on-air talent from Zimmer Communications or a member of the Inside Columbia staff. For this issue, Shannon Welker, the Mizzou Gymnastics coach, shares his ultimate playlist for keeping life interesting. Scan the QR code on this page to listen to the full playlist. Enjoy!

This isn’t a one-genre-fits-all plylist. These are all great artists, and my favorite thing about this playlist is the variety. I think variety keeps things interesting in life and I like that in my music as well. All my playlists are a combination of genres, featuring everything from country and classic rock to modern music.

“Come and Get Your Love” — Redbone

This is a timeless classic that is a staple in my rotation. It never seems to get old, no matter how long I’ve been listening to it.

“Rocky Racoon” — The Beatles

This album came out right when The Beatles were in their prime and “Rocky Racoon” is a great example of that. I feel nostalgic when I go back and listen to this.

“Suspicious Minds” — Elvis Presley

Elvis is Elvis – he’s the king for a reason. “Suspicious Minds” is one of my top songs in his catalog.

“Enter Sandman” — Metallica

This is a really great song that always gives me goosebumps. This is one of Metallica’s most renowned songs for good reason.

“You Should Probably Leave” —

Chris Stapleton

I really like to delve into different genres, and this Chris Stapleton song is one of my favorites. His voice is incredible.

“Intergalactic” — Beastie Boys

Beastie Boys have a totally unique sound and “Intergalactic” is some of their best. It’s totally unique – not much else sounds like this.

SCAN TO DOWNLOAD THE PLAYLIST

Holiday Trends

HOW TO STAND OUT WITH CHRISTMAS DECOR THIS YEAR.

BY BAILEY RIZZO · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

When is it okay to decorate for Christmas and turn on Mariah Carey? After Halloween? After Thanksgiving? Are the decorations already up in your house? This is a highly debated topic, but one thing we can all agree on is that there’s nothing like decking your home with twinkling lights and adorning your front door with wreaths.

Sandra Ferguson, owner of Allen’s Flowers Inc., provides insight into what is trending this season. “My daughter and I go to a home decor market each year to learn about what’s trending, so we know how to best help our customers,” she says. “We visit various company showrooms and purchase the products we will eventually have in the store to sell. We’re often buying a year in advance of the actual holiday, so we purchase Christmas in January.” Because of this, industry leaders often predict what will be trending in the coming years in order to prepare for the bigger holidays.

Reds and greens are classic trademarks of the Christmas season, but the past few years have seen a shift toward more unconventional color schemes. This Christmas season, there are three trending themes to be on the lookout for when decorating your home.

COMFORT & JOY

The trend of using soft blues, grays and whites for Christmas decorations creates a more modernized holiday atmosphere. These cool tones are often featured with simple designs and understated ornaments, incorporating textures like faux fur and metallics for added warmth. Natural elements such as pinecones and greenery are commonly used to enhance the theme. Soft lighting, including fairy lights and candles, complements the colors, resulting in a cozy and stylish setting that reflects the winter season.

SPARKLE & SHINE

Also known as "gilded Christmas,” this theme features blends of silver and gold in decorations, and is trending for its festive appeal with a hint of luxury. This trend allows for pairing with various color schemes, from classic reds and greens to modern neutrals. Textures play a key role, with glittery finishes and shiy surfaces enhancing the visual impact. “We’re seeing more gold come back than ever before, like in reindeers and candlesticks,” Ferguson says. “We also have spray-on sparkles that add a shimmer to the greenery.”

COMFY CHRISTMAS

Recurring throughout the year in many homes, this trend embraces neutral tones like tan, brown, cognac and burgundy to create a warm holiday atmosphere. This palette focuses on earthy hues that evoke a sense of coziness and comfort, hence the trend’s name. Natural materials, such as wood, burlap and linen, are often used in decorations, adding to the theme's rustic charm. Textured elements like knitted throws and plush pillows add warmth, while accents of burgundy bring a rich, seasonal touch. This approach encourages

a more laid-back, intimate celebration, perfect for gathering with loved ones during the holiday season.

BLACK AND GOLD

Allen’s Flowers adds one more theme to their collection this season: Mizzou. As the home of the Missouri Tigers, it only makes sense to include themes of black and gold in Columbia decor at all times. “We’ll have MU ornaments and gift items, which we haven’t had in the past, so we’re really excited about that,” Ferguson says. Some of these decorations can be used year-round like clocks and coasters, while Mizzou-themed snowmen can be stored for use each winter.

“

I love this job and I love Christmas. It’s fun, it’s pretty and people really enjoy it.

In addition to wreaths, garland, centerpieces and other decorations, Allen’s Flowers will have a selection of fresh greenery for purchase at their store. Ferguson says people travel from cities like Kansas City and St. Louis to shop their designs and the wide variety of decoration items. “I love this job and I love Christmas,” she says. “It’s fun, it’s pretty and people really enjoy it.”

Make the most out of your decorations by following these trends, purchasing quality products and taking care of them.

Lights, Waiter, Cater

Learn about Local Catering Options in Columbia

By Zola Heck

by L.G. Patterson

Photos

D. Rowe’s Restaurant & Bar

American Pub Grub

drowesrestaurant.com/

catering

Barbecue fans, line up! D. Rowe’s Restaurant & Bar has all you need for the perfect barbecue bash. Whether you are planning a tailgate, golf outing, open house or in-office lunch, or if you are planning a larger, more formal party like a wedding, D. Rowe’s manager Eduardo Urbina says they can do any event. “We honestly do any size, we do weddings all the time, sporting events, tailgates.” For an event with over 100 attendees, Urbina prefers four to five dys for preparation, but says he can always make anything adjustable. When ordering D. Rowe’s, customers will get two meats, three sides, barbecue sauce, buns or rolls and serving utensils. D. Rowe's Restaurant offers catering services with all orders conveniently packaged in bulk. For those preferring individual boxes, there is an additional charge of $1 per person to cover paper products and staffing. Delivy is available within city limits for a fee of $25, with additional charges for longer distances. Payment is due upon receipt of goods, and a deposit may be required. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance. For larger parties or weddings, the D. Rowe’s website says they will consult with you to provide everything you need. “Whether it’s going to be white tie and tails or lots of bib overalls,” Urbina says, “we’d love to help you make your event a winner.”

Peachtree Catering

Menu-less Makers

eatpeachtree.com

If you’re looking for a place with menu freedom while planning your party, Peachtree Catering has what you need to make it happen. According to its website, Peachtree lets the initial conversation dictate the food options for your planned party. “We don’t have any menus or pricing packages for you to choose from. Instead, we like to have a conversation. We’ll talk all about your event, your needs, wants and dreams,” the website states. The idea is to get to know each client and figue out exactly what’s needed, all within your desired budget. No matter what size event you’re hosting, Peachtree has the capabilities for it all. “We don’t have minimums, and we can work with just about any price,” according to the website. “That is why we don’t have menus, and that is why we do things a bit differently.”

Beet Box

Middle Eastern Cuisine eatabeetbox.com/catering

At Beet Box, customers are working with more of a fied menu. According to the website, for just $17 per box, you can pick from shawarma, falafel, koobideh, hummus bowl, breakfast burrito, turkey bacon club and saffon chicken salad. Each box also comes with chips and a cookie or you can switch the chips for kale salad or tabouleh for $2. There are also several appetizers to choose from, including a hummus platter, falafel with smoked tahini, chicken kebabs, cumin-spiced lamb meatballs and so much more. All the appetizers range in price and are available depending on the season. There is also a hot buffet option. Beet Box provides all the buffet equipment, plates and cutlery. For delivery options, there is a 15-person minimum for catering. Once you know what you want to order, all you have to do is fill out the catering request form on the website and Beet Box will reach out to finalize all the details.

Word of Mouth Catering

Homestyle Cuisine

wordofmouthcateringandcarryout.com

Word of Mouth Catering & Carryout has been serving the mid-Missouri area for over 21 years. According to its website, their goal is to feel the core values of the establishment through the food at your event or gathering. “When you

order from us, our goal is for you to experience the feeling our values are based on love, friendship and generosity,” website says. This is achieved through the family recipes and fresh ingredients used to make every meal. Whether you need a special menu for guests with dietary restrictions or are just looking for a comforting home-cooked meal, Word of Mouth Catering is the place for you. The menu has a variety of options, including chicken scratch noodles, Grandma Jean’s meatloaf, a Thanksgiving dinner, a taco or nacho bar, pasta palooza and more. Bookings need to be made at least 48 hours in advance, and the same timeline applies to their cancellation policy. Delivery is available at $1 per person; service and gratuity charges are not included but are appreciated. All catering and carryout orders include complimentary disposable tableware. Warming racks and fuel are available for pick-up orders for an added fee of $10 to $50. Items can also be picked up cold with easy warming instructions, keeping fresh for up to two days. Contact them by text, call, email or social media to start planning your next gathering!

Bush’s Catering Boxed Delights

bushscateringmealprep.com

Need a meal prep option this winter? Christopher Bush, the owner of Bush’s Catering and Meal Prep, has the perfect menu for you. Bush has more than ten years of experience creating food people will love. Being a part of your next event or weekly meal planning is something he says he feels blessed to do. “We believe that one size doesn’t fit all hen it comes to food. We pride ourselves on customizing any meal for any event,” Bush says. If you don’t find the perect option on the website, Bush says that’s no obstacle. “If you can dream it up, Bush’s Catering can create it for you.” For breakfast, you can either get the pick six breakfast buffet for $13.99 per person or do breakfast a la carte for $3 per serving. For lunch, you can either order the standard box for $12.99 each or the deluxe for $14.99 each. There are also several appetizer options and specialty bars, including a pasta bar, a Greek bar, a nacho bar and more to choose from. One of the most popular dishes Bush’s serves is salmon, including the honey lemon salmon and Mediterranean salmon, along with all the other top-of-the-line cuts of meat you can choose from. To book Bush’s for your next event, you will need to provide a 24-48 hour advance notice. Their policy is first come first seve. You can send an inquiry to bushscatering@gmail.com or call (573) 529-2204.

44 Canteen/44 Tavern

Comfort Food

44canteen.com

midwaygolfgames.com/44-tavern

Mark Sulltrop, the owner of 44 Tavern and 44 Canteen, says planning food for an event is all about offering items that provide a level of comfort with an elevated feel. “I like to put my twist on dishes that guests have a level of comfort ordering,” he says. Whether that’s the pub cheese fritters, tortilla chips and dip or ploughmans charcuterie tray from

44 Tavern or the taco and nacho bars from 44 Canteen, there is something for everyone to enjoy. “We also offer a variety of signature sauces and seasonings,” he says. No matter how big or small, Sulltrop says he and his team can handle your event with ease. “We have hosted a variety of events, including corporate, weddings, receptions, retirement parties, remembrances, graduations and more.” The options are truly endless; you can have your catering delivered or rent out one of their facilities. For the past 30 years, Sulltrop has been involved with catering in Columbia in various positions and facilities and hopes to continue to be a part of community events for years to come.

Nourish Café & Market

Organic Whole Food

nourishcafemarket.com/catering

Sometimes the body is craving whole nutrition — nothing processed, just pure, good food. Nourish Café & Market prides itself on its organic, locally sourced and nutrient-rich food that is all made from scratch. Owner Kalle LeMone says the entire menu is void of gluten, soy, corn, refine sugar, preservatives and inflammatoy oils. “Most often, we cater our bowls, salads or breakfast items with the option to add high-quality meat.” No matter what you are craving from Nourish, they can make it happen for your event. “Almost everything on our menu can be served ‘family style.’ We do take requests if we can accommodate them. We also do group individual orders for larger breakfasts or lunches,” LeMone says. The goal is to keep the health of the customers and the planet in mind when catering any event, big or small. “Everything we do is with intention and with the health of our customers and our planet as our focus,” she says. Whether you are planning an office lunch, bridal shower, holiday party, team breakfast or just looking to nourish your family for the week, Nourish Café can do it all.

Como Smoke & Fire

Columbian Barbecue comosmokeandfire.com/catering-menu

Barbecue is always a crowd-pleaser at events. It’s packed with flvor and there are always plenty of options for everyone. Matt Hawkins, one of the owners of Como Smoke & Fire, says they try to keep catering to the core tenants of barbecue: pork, chicken, turkey, brisket, wings and more. “We try not to cater any fried food, but we will bring other regular sides,” Hawkins says. To stand out of the catering crowd, Como Smoke & Fire doesn’t charge by the plate, instead, they charge depending on the whole group size. “We make a menu for the group,” Hawkins says. “We want to make it as cheap as possible for our clients so there is not a set price per plate.” For drink options, Hawkins says they can provide sweet or unsweet tea and lemonade by the gallon. For a party size of about 40-50 people, Hawkins says he needs at least three days to prepare, but is flexible. “I could get it done today if we needed to, it’s just a lot better if I have three days,” Hawkins says. For just $1.50 per person, Como Smoke & Fire has you covered with serving utensils, plates, cutlery and buns. You can also pair your plate with their flvorful sauces — choose from Something Sweet, Little Heat, Liquid Gold, Carolina Pepper or Alabama White. A pint serves up to 10 people for $10, and a quart can satisfy up to 40 for only $20.

To alleviate some seasonal stress, Como Smoke & Fire can even cook your holiday meat. “We do Thanksgiving and Christmas, turkeys or hams,” Hawkins says. At a set price, you can bring your own meat in and they can smoke and debone it. Whether you need a helping hand for the holidays or are planning a big event, Hawkins encourages you to call 573-6820479 or email smokeandfiecatering@gmail.com. They'll guide you through every detail to ensure you have everything you need for a successful gathering.

Ozark Mountain Biscuit & Bar

Southern Specials

ozarkbiscuits.com/catering

Bring the made-from-scratch specialties from Ozark Mountain Biscuit Co. to your next event for everyone to enjoy. According to its website, each menu can be fully customizable for any event or need.

“We create personalized catering for your wedding, company event or special occasion. Our catering menu is sure to please the guests at your next party,” the website states. Whether you are serving breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, lunch,

dinner or an array of drinks, Ozark Mountain has what you need. Other than their soft drink options such as lemonade, sweet tea, hot chocolate, apple cider, orange juice and coffee, customers can also request a full bar service. Request buffetstyle catering or have the Ozark Biscuit Food Truck come to your event for the perfect on-site experience.

Belly Market & Rotisserie

Seasonal Dishes

eatbellymarket.com

Belly Market is a newer addition to the Columbia area, having opened its doors in 2022. They offer elevated, signature midwestern meals to choose from for your next party. Benjamin Hamrah, the co-owner of Belly Market, says they are a big fan of classic dishes. “If I had to pick one dish that is our ‘signature,’ it would be the chicken piccata.” That dish along with many others are available on the online menu, which includes favorites from the Belly restaurant menu and seasonal special offerings. To order, all you have to do is choose which menu works for your event best, send an email to info@eatbellymarket.com and provide the details of your event.

If there is something you don’t see on the catering menu that you want to enjoy, Hamrah says they can make almost anything work. “As caterers, we can make just about any special request happen,” he says. “We’ve got a great culinary crew, and they love to play!” Customers can order box lunches starting at $13 a box, buffet lunches starting at $16 per person, appetizers and snacks, dinner buffets starting at $17 per person, and tailgate packages starting at $13 per person. All listed prices are for drop-off sevice with disposable products. Want to upgrade? Real chafers, bowls and platters are available for an additional $3 per person. Servers can be added to your event for a 22% service charge. Orders require at least 48 hours' notice and are considered a request until confirmed with an order form. If your request is outside of this window, please contact Belly at (573) 815-9711 and reference your email.

Since Belly Market has Peachtree Catering and Beet Box to lean on, they will sometimes drive clients in one of those directions if it better suits the event being planned. “We always try to steer our clients in the direction that best suits their goals, and we have a pretty wide and diverse group of talent to pull from,” Hamrah says. But no matter how big or small your event, Belly is there to work for you. “We always ask people to reach out with their catering needs no matter how large or small. Just the same, we’re capable of feeding some seriously large crowds. We’re always up for a challenge!”

Room 38

Modern Cuisine

room-38.com/catering

If you’re looking for a variety of flvors, textures and tastes, Room 38 Restaurant & Lounge has everything you need to satisfy your guests. Soleil Richardson, the catering director at Room 38, says the most unique part of the catering experience is the commitment to customization and presentation. “We believe that every event should have its own unique flvor, so we work closely with clients to tailor our offerings to their specific preferences and needs,” Richardson says. While there is a set menu to choose from, he says their options are endless. “We do not limit our clients to those options! We are always open to a

personalized menu to cater to any palate.” Some of the in-house favorites can also be added to any catered event, including lobster mac and cheese, pretzel bites, their Sesame Ahi Tuna and Tuscan Dip Flatbread. Whether you are looking for a venue or wanting to cater an offsite evet, Room 38 can accommodate. “We cater to all styles of events, from tailgates to simple appetizer and cocktail events to formal coursed meals and entrée buffets,” Richardsons says. They can also cater a range in event sizes from as small as 20 people to several hundred. Currently, Room 38 does not have a maximum for party size. They have successfully served up to 500 guests in one party. No matter the event, size or taste, Room 38 makes sure “every event is treated with the same level of attention to detail and quality from our staff and kitchen.

Old Neighborhood Cafe Family Recipes

oldneighborhoodcafe.com/catering

At The Old Neighborhood Cafe, co-owners Vanessa and Jake Leitza are always up for a catering challenge. “We have a menu online, but Jake and I love it when people have their own ideas,” Vanessa says. While there is no minimum guest number, Vanessa and Jake usually prefer large parties to have 100 guests or less.

“The largest one we did was for 400 people, but we prefer to stick to 100 people or less,” she says. “We catered for as few as two people.” Vanessa says The Old Neighborhood Cafe can do anything from executive box lunches for large or small group events to a carving station dinner buffet. “We do a Mexican bar, a pasta bar and we have an extensive hors d’oeuvres section for people who just want to pass finger oods,” she says. But what really sets the Old Neighborhood Cafe’s catering apart is their charcuterie and grazing tables, “which are really excellent additions to any holiday party, birthday party or special occasion, they are pretty eyecatching,” Vanessa says. While the Leitzas prefer at least a week to prepare for a catering opportunity, they always aim to fulfill all lastminute requests. For parents with less time around the holidays, the Leitza’s also prepare family holiday meals in advance. “It takes some of the work out of the holidays for the busy folk.”

All prices for catering are priced per person unless noted otherwise. Standard boxed lunches are $12, deluxe boxed lunches are $14 per person, the lunch buffet is $18 for one entrée and $20 for two, and specialty bars are between $17 and $21.50.

Stuffed cavatelli and cannolis catered by Pasta La Fata.

Pasta La Fata

Fresh Italian Cuisine pastalafata.net/catering

Pasta La Fata, led by Chef and Owner Michelle La Fata, offers a catering menu centered on fresh, scratch-made pasta featuring locally farm-grown ingredients. “We work with over 30 local farms throughout the year and even grow some of our own herbs and produce,” she says. While they cater more often to offices and parties, they occasionally take on weddings, with a limited number of events each year. Pasta La Fata has a set menu that can be customized upon request and they handle catering requests based on current capabilities. “We consider every request individually, based on our capabilities at that time,” La Fata says. When ordering, there are several fresh dishes to choose from, including lasagna ($130, serves 16-20), stuffed cavatelli ($120, serves 10-12), cannelloni ($115, serves 10-12) and capriccio ($140, serves 10-12), along with salad and Italian dessert options like their famous cannolis. Delivery is available for an additional 20% or the menu is available for hot food pick-up. Set-up, service and customized menus are also offered. You can contact the team to discuss your event's specific needs. Catering orders should be placed at least one week in advance. Pasta La Fata also has a restaurant, market and a stand at the Columbia Farmers Market.

Big Daddy’s BBQ

Soul Food bigdaddysbbqcomo.com

If you need some food for the soul, Big Daddy’s BBQ’s menu is the one for you. Founders Lloyd and Fontella Henry started their journey in a catering trailer before opening their now well-known barbecue joint at the corner of Garth and Business Loop. According to the website, the goal was to make the restaurant feel welcoming. “With convenient takeout and a spacious patio, the restaurant has a charming and homey feel,” the website states. Since its humble beginnings back in the 1980s, the company has grown with a second location and now showcases a food truck and mobile trailer which is used for events and catering. Just looking at the menu will make your mouth water. Big Daddy’s offers everything from pulled pork, brisket, ribs and sausage, to homemade sides such as baked beans, potato salad and collard greens. On top of everything, customers also get to enjoy Big Daddy’s own signature spicy, ketchupbased sauce. To order Big Daddy’s for your next event, visit the website and fill out the catering contact form.

Honey Baked Ham

Quality Meat honeybaked.com/catering

Honey Baked Ham in Columbia offers a range of catering options ideal for various events. From signature ham and turkey trays to fresh sandwich platters and sides, their menu is designed to suit gatherings of all sizes. With a focus on quality and convenience, they provide both individual and buffetstyle meals, making it easy to plan for office lunches, family celebrations or larger events. Head to the website and search Columbia, Missouri with the zip code or name, and click on the local store to plan out your holiday party meals with ease.

Glenn’s Café

Cajun, Creole, American glennscafe.com/catering

Your favorite spot, Glenn’s Cafe, offers catering services that bring the flvors of their American cuisine to any event or gathering. Their catering options are designed to accommodate a variety of needs, from intimate gatherings to larger occasions. Whether you know the Glenn’s as the small gas station diner from the 1940s or know it as the brick-and-mortar establishment on the corner of 9th and Cherry, you know it’s all about good food and making memories. To make Glenn’s a part of your next memory, send a catering and event inquiry on the website with all the private event information. Include your name, email and phone number with a brief message to the staff and et the party planning begin!

Bud’s Classic BBQ

Authentic Barbecue budsclassic.top

Bud's Classic BBQ in Columbia offers a range of catering options that highlight their commitment to authentic barbecue flvors. Their menu features a variety of smoked meats, including Texas brisket and barbecue burnt ends, alongside options like marinated chicken. Known for its focus on quality ingredients and traditional barbecue techniques, Bud's Classic BBQ is an ideal choice for gatherings and events of all sizes. For more details on the menu, visit the website, budsclassic.top.

Sara Fougere Catering

Signature Appetizers sarafougerecatering.com

Sara Fougere, the owner of Sara Fougere Catering, wants to make your event as easy as possible for you, from the set-up all the way to the clean-up. “My motto is, it's your party, enjoy it. You should be able to enjoy your guests and not have to worry about food and service,” she says. “I develop a relationship with my customers, and they trust me to take care of all aspects of their event so they can enjoy their party.” While Fougere does cater corporate, university events and in-home catering, she prefers not to cater weddings. “I love big events either buffet or plated meals, but I rarely do a wedding. If I do, it is usually a small, highend function.” There really is no limit for Fougere as far as guest count, big or small. “I prefer at least 15 guests and the largest I have done is 800 guests.” Fougere is no stranger to catering as she has been in the catering industry for 20 years. You’ll notice Fougere has a carefully curated menu, with a flvor spread to complement any event. Signature dishes like the almond-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates and chocolate raspberry brownies showcase a focus on flvor and presentation. “My food is delicious and beautiful. The presentation is as important as the flvor.” Since her business is her name, Fougere takes every event very seriously, to ensure each client is more than satisfied not only with the food but the service as well. “I take each event to heart and am easy to work and communicate with.”

Happy Food Catering

Nutrient-Dense

Food happyfoodmeals.com

Happy Food Catering, led by Executive Chef Kimber Dean, specializes in allergy-friendly, nutrient-dense meals tailored to various dietary needs. “What sets us apart is our focus on using local and organic ingredients, including those from our own Happy Food Farm,” Dean says. The menu features flvorful options like hormone-balancing bowls that can be customized to fit clent requests. “We love collaborating with clients to create menus that meet their specific dietary needs and preferences, ensuring each event is unique and special,” Dean says. Happy Food Catering can work with all kinds of events, including weddings, corporate luncheons and intimate gatherings. “For weddings, we provide multi-course plated dinners or buffets with a healthy twist. For corporate gatherings, we offer convenient yet nutritious boxed lunches, while our party catering includes everything from appetizers to full meals, depending on the occasion.” Dean says she caters for events of all sizes, with a minimum of 10 people, and larger events with up to 200 guests. “We work closely with our clients to ensure their guests leave feeling satisfied and energized, no matter the occasion.”

Grandma's Southern Eats

Authentic Southern Food grandmassoutherneats.com

Who doesn’t love some good Southern food? Grandma’s Southern Eats is a mobile catering company that can turn any event into the perfect Sunday dinner. No matter the event, whether it’s a private party, a corporate event or a birthday, this homestyle catering can do it all. According to its website, Grandma’s Southern Eats focuses on authentic Southern food with barbecue sauces and dry seasonings that will instantly make you think of home. “Grandma's Southern Eats brings back memories of what our mothers and grandmas used to cook , bringing the family together in love,” the website states. Make sure to get your order in four days ahead, and let Grandma’s catering take care of the rest! Enjoy a delicious dinner starting at $12.95 per person, with special pricing as low as $13.95 per person for groups of 75 and $12.95 for 100 or more.

Chocolate cannolis from Pasta La Fata and bacon chocolate chip cookies from Como Smoke & Fire.

SAN-SATIONAL FASHION

Local Resident Opens New Boutique Featuring Indian-Made Products

BY BAILEY RIZZO

PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

Studio San owner and momtrepreneur Shreya Bhola had a laundry list of reasons not to open a new business. After moving from New Delhi, India with her husband, the couple relocated frequently, living in five states across seven years. When they settled in Columbia, it seemed like the right time – until they had a baby. But that never stopped Bhola from achieving her dream.

“It was time to put down some roots here, and I thought, ‘I've got to do this; I've got to do this now,’” she says. “I knew I would get comfortable in my job, and when I had my daughter, I thought about taking a couple of years off. But I said to myself, ‘if I don't do it now, I never will.’ It was always going to be this. The road was just not very straightforward.”

Opening a business has always been a dream, she says. Business is in her blood. Her family members are third-generation jewelers in India and her sister-in-law owns a clothing store. So over the past year, Bhola transitioned from a career in public relations and marketing to opening her own studio.

“I love sales, I love creating and I love promoting local craftsmanship and all kinds of pretty things … it’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” she says.

More than just another department store, Studio San is a multidesigner boutique focused on curating unique, small-batch products in fashion, home decor and accessories.

According to Studio San’s mission statement, the studio aims to provide

Orr Street Studios Welcomes New Boutique: Studio San

fuss-free luxury through handcrafted products that are “made with care and love” by artisans from across India. “As a new mother myself, I understand the importance of versatile, fussfree clothing that adapts to different stages of life,” Bhola says.

Beyond selling fashionable clothing, Bhola has two goals for the success of this studio.

First, she wants to bring her two worlds together, uniting Indian traditions in sewing and manufacturing with the more modernized Western culture and style.

“I want to feature the real craftsmanship and the age-old traditions that we have in India, which are done so well,” she says. “You have to see it to believe it.”

However, she also said that this craftsmanship gets lost in the conversation of cheap labor.

“There is cheap labor, which is utilized by a lot of retailers out here, and you'll see those ‘Made in India’ tags at Old Navy,” she says. “It’s true, they do do that because we have big manufacturing setups, but there are also very small units of people who hand-stitch things and hand-craft things.”

Her second goal is to cultivate a space where other locals can come together to share their craft, whether that be clothing, accessories or decorations.

“If our ethos and sensibilities match, I want to promote that,” Bhola says. “I want to make it a hub for local talent. The whole idea is to build emerging entrepreneurs and emerging designers like myself and support them as much as I can.”

An important aspect of the boutique and clothing by Studio San is to emphasize that the brand is for “real people.”

“As much as I love to scroll through Instagram all day looking at all of

those fancy people decked up and looking perfect, I know my body is far from perfect,” Bhola says. “I am very into real people and wearing real clothes, and so that's why I eventually want to get a photo shoot done with local people. It’s my small way of being a part of the community.”

The first collection of clothing, named Mya, is a curated line of dresses that transition from day to night, each handcrafted with luxurious fabrics. According to Bhola’s official description of the collection, Mya is the epitome of elegance, “embodying timeless sophistication and modern allure… perfect for those special moments when you want to shine with effortless grace.”

Last month, Studio San hosted its first pop-up event where Columbia residents were able to enjoy complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres, get their photo taken on a red carpet and try out the Mya collection.

“The Sip and Shop (gave) me a chance to meet more of the amazing people here since I’m new to the city,” Bhola says. “We’re very close to the holiday season, so people are able to get an outfit or two for Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas or office parties.”

Studio San is named in an homage not only to the goal of culminating a collaborative space, but also to Bhola’s family. "S" for Shreya, "A" for Amyra (her daughter) and "N" for Nikhil (her husband). In addition to being the stakeholders of the business, Bhola says these are the people who give her the strength to follow her dreams.

The Studio San online store is now open for orders at studiosan.co. The physical studio space, located at Orr Street Studios, is set to open early next year, but Bhola is available for in-person shopping appointments. Contact her at shreya@studiosan.co.

I love sales, I love creating and I love promoting local craftmanship.

Dinner Discussions

Tips for Having Difficult Conversations Around the Holidays

By Rance Burger

With the holidays approaching, it's normal to experience a combination of excitement and apprehension toward seeing loved ones. Unresolved challenges with family members are an unfortunate but common aspect of our lives. Conflict and th difficultonversations that follow it can be natural obstacles in any relationship, whether it be with a partner, family member, friend or even a neighbor.

Those conflcts can range widely from "Should my partner and I buy this new car for our family?" to "Your dog's barking wakes me up every morning," to

"I think it's time to move mom and dad out of the house."

"When you start a hard conversation, you will want to be able to say why you'd

like to talk," Ashley Angerer-Blunt says.

Angerer-Blunt is a licensed mental health provider and director of Outpatient Services at Burrell Behavioral Health. She says respect for the other person(s) and avoiding kneejerk reactions are massive pieces of forming healthy relationships and managing conflct.

"When you initiate, start by asking if it's a good time to talk and explain why you want to have this particular conversation," Angerer-Blunt says. "Notice their body language or when

their answers become short and what makes them expand further."

Angerer-Blunt's best advice is to listen, ask questions and learn. Approach the conversation with an objective to understand the other person(s) rather than a goal to win a battle. She advises not to make the conversations transactional, but to make them empathetic.

Angerer-Blunt says it's easy to recall times when we were in a conversation with someone who was out to win and did not understand where you were coming from. A more loving approach

can help prevent a disagreement from evolving into an out-ofcontrol escalation.

"You're having this conversation because you're committed to making this relationship better or moving an issue forward," Angerer-Blunt says.

Angerer-Blunt says an example of empathetically engaging is asking to hear more about a topic or stance you

as they may change throughout the conversation. It's okay to take breaks. Maintaining respect and a calm center is helpful not only to you but also to your conversation partner's emotions.

It's also helpful to acknowledge any preexisting tension within a relationship. Tension isn't wrong or necessarily bad, but it can be a barrier to resolution. Family conversations can

Prepare for a diffilt conversation not to win, but to stick with the goal of compromise.

don't share.

"Say something like, 'I don't have that perspective, so please tell me why you feel or think this way,'" AngererBlunt says. "Listen to their perspective. Thank them for sharing. And then, share why you feel the way you do."

Prepare for a difficult conversation not to win, but to stick with the goal of compromise. Angerer-Blunt says we often strategize how to win and do not think about empathy and hearing the other person out. Preparation should be geared to help us emotionally regulate while looking for the best solution possible for all parties. Avoid generalizations and the impulse to ascribe beliefs to the other person. Be mindful of your emotions,

be especially difficult, given existing dynamics combined with the dueling desires to feel part of a greater whole and be an individual sharing a perspective.

An example is when older children have difficult discussions with their aging parents. In this situation, the child is most concerned about safety in their loved one’s environment, and the older adult is most concerned about their independence. By approaching the conversation calmly and empathetically, each party can better grasp the other's viewpoints and get to a place where true feelings can be shared.

"Radical acceptance can be helpful in some conflcts," Angerer-Blunt says. "Validating that maybe we don't like

these facts, but these are the facts, and we are going to work together to figue out our situation, which can be greatly helpful."

What Happens After the Conversation Ends

It can be hard to know how to end a difficult conversation. Sometimes, we want to keep talking, but it's clear that our conversation partner is ready for the end. Notice body language, such as eyes darting around the room. Ending a conversation is sometimes a temporary end, so parties can take a break and continue talking later when emotions

have calmed.

"It's understandable to want the hard thing to be over after the conversation is over, but that is not a reality for most hard topics," Angerer-Blunt says. "Depending on how deep the topic is, it's possible that the conversation will need to be had a few times.

It's important to realize that emotions may not go as we pictured in a challenging conversation. Having difficult discussions is a practice and skill that takes most people time to build — with plenty of mistakes along the way.

"Most of us aren't given a playbook growing up on how to have hard

conversations about anything. We're often shown the opposite," AngererBlunt says. "Things may not go well, things could get worse, but the only way to improve communication, understanding and ultimately our relationships is to have the conversation."

Working with a mental health professional can help everyone involved in conflct navigate the situation better. Therapy can help us develop and hone our conversation skills, ultimately leading to healthier and more fulfillin connections to the people we care most about.

What to Ask Yourself Before a Difficu Conversation

Take a minute for yourself and reflect on thes questions to prepare for a productive conversation.

Do I feel in myself and present to engage in this conversation fully?

What is the purpose or goal of this conversation?

What is the ideal outcome for both of us? What are my wants and needs?

What am I feeling about this situation as a whole?

What part of the conflict or isue am I responsible for?

Is there anything from my past being triggered by the current issue? If so, what?

What assumptions do I have about the other person's intentions or perspective? What might they be thinking and feeling?

Am I okay if the conflict is not esolved today?

Is there anything from my past that is being triggered by the current issue?

How do I feel about having this conversation? How might the other person be feeling?

Phrases to End a Difficultonversation

I'd like to take a break and come back to this in a couple of hours after we've both had time to think.

Thank you for sharing your perspective. I am going to take some time to think. Can we revisit this later?

I need to take a break and talk about this when I’ve calmed down.

I need to cool off beore going further in this conversation because I respect you and want to be here to talk.

Thank you for sharing everything with me today. I appreciate you. Do you feel okay ending the conversation here and picking up later?

I know you have a lot going on, so I'll let you go. Thank you for talking to me.

To find moe resources, visit burrellcenter.com, follow Burrell Behavioral Health on social media or reach out to another local mental health resource.

Have you ever had an important question, and after turning to the internet for answers you end up with more confusion than clarity? Now you can turn to local experts in Columbia who can provide trusted, accurate advice tailored to our community’s unique needs. Whether you are tackling a home improvement project, seeking healthcare guidance or navigating auto repairs, the professionals featured in the following pages are here to help. They’re the go-to experts in their field, ready to offer you the insights you need to make informed decisions.

Welcome to "Ask the Expert," where Columbia’s finest shae their wisdom with you!

Why should I get to know my auto technician?

Building a relationship with your auto technician is crucial for ensuring both trust and safety. Just as you would want to establish a strong rapport with professionals like your doctor, attorney, surgeon or pastor, it’s important to know the person responsible for maintaining your vehicle. When you take the time to get to know your technicians, you can feel confidet that they understand your vehicle's unique needs and are committed to keeping you safe on the road.

Ross Mutrux Owner and Master Technician

In today’s fast-paced world, trusting your vehicle with a reliable professional is more important than ever.

"It

Ross Mutrux with Mutrux Automotive says, “It is helpful to have someone who is a trusted expert to know your vehicle needs and your needs. Someone you can trust to give you good advice. To know you and your family will be safe traveling the roadways.” No matter where you are driving, whether it’s in the city or on the highway, safety is always the top priority at Mutrux. Before choosing a trusted automotive expert, Mutrux says to ask several important ques-

to

tions. “Can they work on your model of vehicle? Do they do only light mechanics or can the perform heavy engine work as well? Do they only specialize in one particular part of the vehicle? Brakes, A/C, Alignments ... are they an all-inclusive shop?” For Mutrux, it’s all about making sure his customers are receiving top-notch care every time. He says he loves “the ability to help others and the ability to rebuild and make them better than what they came to you.” Being able to trust an automotive expert ensures peace of mind for everyone — and keeps you and your family safe on the road.

Phyllis Nichols wants to be your rock. After 37 years in the insurance business, she knows how important it is to have a trusted resource if the unimaginable happens. Nichols urges people to have a plan in place and to choose a transparent, protective and affordable insurance policy. “I knew that I wanted to provide protection for families when something tragic occurs,” Nichols says. “I knew that it would not be easy, but I wanted to be the rock they could count on.” As a lifelong Columbia native, she has gained a reputation for herself as a dependable and trustworthy insurance option. Nichols can provide home, auto, health and life insurance policies, to name a few. When you’re searching for the right insur-

“I admire superheroes, but I love that I can be a lifesaver in someone's darkest moments.”

ance, Nichols advises to proceed with caution. “Have a list of questions for the expert ... so you can make sure you thoroughly understand what you are buying and what it will do for those you care about,” she says. For those looking to pursue a similar career in insurance, Nichols emphasizes the importance of reading up on what you’re selling. When disaster strikes, an agent like Nichols can provide you with the protection and answers you need. “I admire superheroes, but I love that I can be a lifesaver in someone's darkest moments,” she says. “I can not only hold their hand along the way, but I can give them funds to keep a roof over their head or keep their children in school.”

Wouldn’t you want to know if you didn’t have enough coverage to protect your family?

I would love to sit down with you and review your current policy. Is it a term policy or is the rate locked in from the age that you purchased the policy? For cents on the dollar, you can get good protection for your family should the unexpected ever occur. Obtaining coverage sooner rather than later is a good plan. You never know when your health will change or how much the policy will cost as you get older, if you can even qualify.

Phyllis Nichols Agent/Owner

How does one go about designing jewelry?

Each piece is different on how to approach the design. I start by sitting down with my clients and listening to their vision of what they would like to have created. Some may want to redesign their heirloom jewelry into something that is more their style. Others may not have an idea, and it is my artistic passion that helps guide them to fulfill their vision

Molly Smith Owner/Bench Jeweler/Designer

When creating a piece of jewelry, it’s important to work with someone you can trust. Whether you are changing something that has been passed down from generation to generation or creating a brand-new piece to take on all new memories, you want to be working with an expert. Molly Smith, the owner, bench jeweler and designer at Molly's Jewelry Design, LLC, says how her clients feel about her work is her utmost concern. “Jewelry is both personal and sentimental. It is an extension of ourselves,” she says. “Honesty is key! We take pride in our word and in our work. We want you to feel confident when leaving our store.” Smith’s passion for making and designing jewelry has only grown since watch-

“Jewelry is both personal and sentimental. It is an extension of ourselves.”

ing her mother work as a child. “My mom started in jewelry retail when I was five, and needless to say, I spent a lot of time behind the jewelry counter and watching the very artistically skilled jeweler hand-carve and cast very detailed pieces,” she says. “This inspired me to pursue schooling in jewelry making and designing.” A big part of this line of work is having “patience and problem-solving skills,” Smith says. “Creating a special piece takes time, patience is always appreciated throughout the process.” But after all that hard work you get to sit back and realize you have helped create something exceptional for each client. “The joyful reaction of our clients when they receive the special piece they have been anticipating makes my day every time.”

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial commitments an individual will undertake in their lifetime. Because homebuying involves substantial costs not immediately available in most people’s savings, they often must seek a loan.

To assist with the loan process, Austin Hawkins, assistant vice president and mortgage loan officer at First Midwest Bank, says clients should look for someone trustworthy, knowledgeable and experienced. “You want to ensure they can adapt to anything unforeseen with the ability to switch gears on a moment's notice, which only comes with decades of experience,” he says. “A trustworthy resource is imperative to navigate through the lending process.”

“A trustworthy resource is imperative to navigate through the complex lending process.”

With a background in customer service, Hawkins says he loves the idea of helping people. “I figured, what better way to help them than to help them buy a house?” His advice for anyone interested in working in the mortgage loan industry is to stick with it, even when problems arise. “Like any industry, there can be ups and downs, good days and bad,” he says. “Stay focused and find solutions because when you overcome those lending hurdles and secure that family their dream home, the feeling is second to none.”

The most rewarding aspect of being an expert in the profession is “the tears of joy that come when a family secures that dream home they have always wanted,” Hawkins says.

Are there truly 100% financing or $0 money-down options?

The answer is yes, absolutely. Most people don't know that no-money, out-of-pocket mortgage options are available. It is also a common misconception that you must be a first-time homebuyer or have credit challenges to access these programs. The truth is these programs are available to everyone regardless of their credit or first-time homebuer status. At First Midwest Bank, we offer a variety of mortgage loans with competitive rates and convenient terms including 100% financing and $0 outof-pocket loan options

Austin Hawkins Assistant Vice President/ Mortgage Loan

NMLS #1482943

How can equity help you long term?

Home remodeling can signifiantly increase property value and equity. By modernizing the kitchen, updating bathrooms or adding a new room, you're not just enhancing its aesthetics or functionality, you're directly increasing its market value. Modern buyers often seek out homes that are "move-in ready," and investing in updating key areas can set your property apart from the competition. While remodeling may require an initial financial ivestment, the long-term gains in both equity and resale value make it one of the smartest moves a homeowner can make.

Austin Hall

Owner

When looking to remodel your home, Austin Hall, the owner of Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing, says seeking remodeling information from a trusted resource is crucial for several reasons. An expert offers reliable information to help you avoid extra costs, follow legal and safety rules, focus on projects that boost your home's value and give you peace of mind. "Trusted sources make sure homeowners are making smart decisions based on the best industry standards.” At Heartland Homes, they check all these boxes, making sure that in the end, customers always have peace of mind. “Knowing that you're following advice from

“Knowing that you're following advice from a credible source provides confidence in the quality of the work."

a credible source provides confidence in the quality of the work, the durability of materials and the long-term success of the remodeling project.” Once a vision is in place, Hall says his team makes it happen. “Any dream is possible these days with Heartland Homes. The biggest challenge we face is extracting those visions from clients and we handle the rest.” Knowing he gets to make a difference in people’s lives in the Columbia community keeps him motivated to continue to provide expert service. “That makes me feel like my years of hard work and learning have paid off and I can then help our community capitalize on their visions and dreams.”

With the winter elements in full swing, roof damage can be a real nightmare. Trusting a local expert to quickly repair your roof is key to staying warm and safe all year long. Cody Garcia, owner of Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing, specializes in roof replacement, remodeling and preventative maintenance. When he was flipping homes in 2016, Garcia realized he had a knack for roofing. “When we had to replace the roof on the home, it was pretty incredible how much the roof changed the look,” Garcia says. “I knew I wanted to help people have the same experience.”

Garcia emphasizes the importance of trusting a local expert with something as important as your home. He warns that some companies may be dishonest with

their skill level or intentions, so it’s vital to do research before choosing a professional roofer. “There are a lot of companies that come into town for a couple months to roof homes, then leave, never to be heard from again and you’re stuck with the bill to have it fixed,” he says.

For Garcia, the most rewarding aspect of the job is when they can see the final product. “We know it's been done correctly, and the customer has their home and family protected from the elements,” he says.

For anyone aspiring toward a career in roofing, Garcia advises that care for the customer and their home is key. “Customer service is always the most important thing to me,” he says. “If you tell a customer that you are going to show up, make sure you always get them a bid in a timely manner.”

My roof is leaking – what should I do? If your roof is leaking, act quickly to prevent further damage. First, locate the leak by checking the attic or ceiling for water stains. Use a bucket to catch dripping water. Contact a professional roofer for a thorough inspection and repair. Don't delay; prompt action can save you from costly damage.

Cody Garcia Owner

How do I know if long-term in-home care is an appropriate option for my loved one?

Long-term in-home care is an appropriate option for most individuals on the aging journey. Supportive in-home care is a great alternative or supplement to traditional solutions like assisted living and nursing homes. No matter where someone calls home, Home Instead strives to create a supportive, deeply personal, evolving care experience. Our plans of care are designed to change over time, as one’s needs change, to ensure we are always providing the right support – even providing support alongside hospice if and when that time comes.

Toby Barnes General Manager

Seeking information from a trustworthy source is crucial in any health care need, especially when people are often misinformed about what support home care actually entails. Home

Instead General Manager

“Helping

Toby Barnes says many health care professionals confuse supportive home care with traditional home health services that offer limited, temporary support only as it relates to an acute injury or illness. “Unfortunately, home health services are often not comprehensive enough to meet the ongoing daily needs of those on the aging journey,” he says. “Assistance with activities of daily living can help address many aspects of aging that home health services cannot, allowing the individual to age where they feel most comfortable.”

Regardless of age or health status, clients should know that it is never too early to consider how they want to craft their vision of aging before a crisis arises.

seniors and their loved ones minimize their stress and enjoy life is the most rewarding aspect of my profession.”

After witnessing the aging process in his grandparents and the struggles his family had with managing their care, Barnes knew he wanted to act as an advocate for individuals who need support in the aging journey. Oftentimes, family and friends are relied on for assistance with aging individuals, putting extra stress on those relationships. “The unspoken reality is that caregiving is an extremely time-consuming, stressful and difficult task for families to manage,” Barnes says. “Helping seniors and their loved ones minimize their stress and enjoy life is the most rewarding aspect of my profession.”

When information is readily available online, anyone can seem like an expert on fitness or nutrition. However, Scott Schutte, owner of Evolved Personal Training, says clients need a plan that works for them, not just a plan that works on paper.

“Getting advice from unqualified sources, whether a friend, online or an inexperienced coach, can set you up for failure,” he says.

“Trusted resources provide personalized, sciencebacked guidance, ensuring your success.”

plan to your unique needs, focusing on what works best for you.”

For anyone looking to follow in Schutte’s footsteps, he recommends learning from someone who is already successful in the industry. “Stay curious, embrace challenges and never stop refining your craft,” he says.

“It's incredibly fulfilling to know we're making a positive impact on so many lives ..."

When looking to begin their fitness journey, clients should first understand there are many ways to achieve their goals. Schutte says it is important to be cautious of anyone pushing a one-size-fits-all approach. “Keep an open mind,” he says. “The right expert will tailor a

“Consistency and a genuine desire to help others are key to long-term success in this field.”

The team at Evolved is committed to each client’s success story, whether it be weight loss, muscle gain, reduced pain or increased confidence. “It's incredibly fulfilling to know we're making a positive impact on so many lives and helping people achieve lasting transformations both physically and mentally.”

Why is losing weight and getting healthier so hard to achieve, and more importantly, maintain?

The biggest mistake, even for fitness professionals, is focusing only on exercise and nutrition, forgetting the most important factor—you. By integrating behavioral science, we create a plan that's easy, enjoyable and effective, ensuring sustainable results not just for 12 weeks, but for life.

Scott Schutte Owner

What’s happening with the real estate market?

We are seeing a normalization of the real estate market. Inventory is rising to a more realistic level and homes are staying on the market a little bit longer than they have. This gives both buyers and sellers a little breathing room and allows for more choices. Interest rates have stabilized and will probably drop a bit more, but don't expect interest rates to drop back to 3%. Those interest rates always were a market flue.

Alice Leeper Broker/Salesperson

HOME TOWN COMO GROUP

The process of buying a home may seem daunting, but Alice Leeper, a broker and salesperson at RE/MAX Boone Realty is here to help. As a Missouri native, she understands the importance of placing people in the right homes in Columbia, Ashland and Hallsville. After 19 years of working in tech in Silicon Valley, she returned to Columbia in 2004 to obtain her real estate license. In 2021, Leeper formed her own real estate team, Hometown COMO Group. The group aims to offer a no-pressure, transparent buying experience for the residents of mid-Missouri.

advantage of all the training opportunities you are offered.” She also says helping new agents is the most rewarding aspect of being an expert in her field.

"Take advantage of all the training opportunities you are offered."

With almost 20 years of experience in real estate, Leeper firmly believes in continuing education and has obtained several specialty certifications. For those hoping to pursue a career in real estate, Leeper says to “take

Leeper advises prospective home buyers to seek out a trustworthy, experienced salesperson. “Experience is worth more than exuberance. Look for a REALTOR who works as an agent full time and sells more than a couple of homes a year,” she says. An experienced agent like Leeper can help buyers avoid future issues and feel secure in their purchase. “Having an experienced buyer's agent can both help you find homes that maybe hadn't hit your radar and avoid future problems by guiding you through the home inspection process,” Leeper says. Choosing the best home for your family starts with choosing the right agent.

Worrying about having safe water at home is something many people think about. Brian Wear, owner of Brian Wear Plumbing, says people often won’t drink water at home due to growing concerns and end up buying bottled water. But that might not be the solution people think it is.

“Did you know your water supply is tested regularly but no one is overseeing what is in bottled water?

“We take that responsibility seriously, especially when it comes to safe water.”

You can make your own bottled water for pennies that is delicious and safe, plus stop adding all those plastic bottles to the landfill,” Wear says.

Being able to help the community feel safe when drinking water at home is something Wear loves about his work. “It

is the plumber’s responsibility to protect the health of the community,” he says. “We take that responsibility seriously, especially when it comes to safe water.” Being able to make a difference in people’s everyday lives is something Wear does not take lightly and says he loves “the appreciation received from customers after the job is done.” When looking for someone to help you and your family, Wear says it’s important to do your research online and in person before settling on a company. “Check them out, read reviews, talk to friends and neighbors.”

If you want to follow in Wear’s footsteps with your career, he says there is always room for compassionate souls. “Good people are needed in all the trades.”

I'm worried that my water isn’t safe for my family, what should I do?

Safe water supply has gained national attention on more than one occasion in the past and is certainly a legitimate concern. Knowing what you want to remove is key. We can test and provide solutions for a whole spectrum of water problems, from simple removal of calcium and magnesium to wholehouse filtation and drinking water systems.

Brian Wear Owner

How do you maintain morale when transitioning to life in a nursing home?

The answer is person-centered care! There is a stigma that moving into a nursing home means life is over — that isn't the case! We get to know our residents as individuals; we learn what motivates them, what brings them joy and focus on what they can still do. We then cater our activities to our residents' interests. Life Enrichment views care holistically, and we help our residents find a purpose in our ommunity — some have lived here for ten or more years!

Mary Breight

Life Enrichment & Volunteer Coordinator

Having a trusted expert to turn to when finding quality care for loved ones is essential. Mary Breight, the life enrichment and volunteer coordinator at The Bluffs has a deep-rooted passion for this field as her interest was inspired by personal experiences. “My grandmother battled dementia, and my mom was diagnosed with dementia almost a decade ago,” she says. “I wanted to help restore dignity in geriatrics, help others when they need it the most and be a smiling face people could always count on.” Breight makes sure to always focus on treating the whole individual, rather than just their diagnosis. “Health care is not one-size-fits-all,” she explains. “Get to know

“I

your residents! There are so many diverse backgrounds and so much to learn!”

Getting to know the residents is one of the most rewarding parts of Breight’s job. She says it’s all about “the relationships you build! I have met some of the best people and continually learn from our residents every day.” She wants people to know that there should never be shame when moving yourself or a loved one into a nursing home – her own mom moved to The Bluffs in 2022. “It’s okay to need help!” The goal is to “help residents maintain their lives and thrive. Life doesn't have to end the second you move into a nursing home –we're here to have some fun too!”

SCHOLAR Clinic, a partnership between Clarity Healthcare and Columbia Public Schools, is a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center, focused on serving Columbia Public School students who have difficulty accessing healthcare.

“Every scholar and their family have a different idea of what a wellness check with a health provider looks like,” says Megan Kruse, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner at SCHOLAR clinic. “I like to listen to what that looks like for each family to help meet their needs. Parental input is incredibly important.”

health education for patients and help screen for and detect illness.

“We look at a child holistically during an exam,” Kruse says. “Think of wellness visits as your chance to learn as much as you can about the best ways to help your child grow.”

“Think of wellness visits as your chance to learn as much as you can about the best ways to help your child grow!”

How important is my child’s annual wellness visit?

Health early in life predicts health later in life. Pediatric health care providers have the opportunity to address issues that can lead to lifelong health challenges early, from diabetes to depression. The systems used to check mental health during a wellness visit can be powerful tools to assist clinicians diagnosing depression, anxiety or other mental health issues, as well as monitoring treatment responses.

Megan Kruse, MSN, CPNP-AC/PC Certified ediatric Nurse Practitioner

SCHOLAR Clinic offers sports physicals at no cost. Wellness visits track growth, provide

In addition to treating physical ailments, regular wellness checks give healthcare providers a way to identify potential mental health issues.

“Collaborating with Columbia Public School nurses, our team can have a heads up on what might be going on with a student.”

If an issue is noted during a SCHOLAR Clinic exam, a pediatric healthcare provider will develop a plan tailored to a child’s specific needs.

How are trucking accident cases different from passenger motorvehicle cases?

Trucking accidents are far more intricate than regular car crashes due to their massive weight, which can reach up to 80,000 pounds. These collisions often lead to severe injuries and fatalities. Causes can include driver error, mechanical failure, manufacturing defects or cargo loading mistakes. Modern trucks have advanced technology for crash data, routing and driver oversight that must be carefully handled post-accident. Additionally, trucks face numerous regulations impacting liability. Therefore, if you or a loved one is injured in such an accident, it's crucial to hire a law firm experienced in trucking cases.

John Shikles Partner

573-636-2177

515 E. High St, suite 401, Jefferson City, MO 65101 carsoncoil.com

When looking for answers on how to handle a personal injury or insurance issue, especially a trucking accident, it's important to talk directly with a licensed attorney who can apply recent and relevant legal principles and investigation techniques to your situation. “Most of the easily accessible information about personal injury and insurance comes from legal or insurance marketing professionals who have only one purpose – getting you ‘in the door,’” says John Shikles, partner at Carson & Coil.

“The opportunity to have a profound impact on the lives of everyday people going through the greatest struggles of their life.”

dedicated to you recovering both your physical and financial health.” Shikles says. “They will listen to you tell your story. You are the expert on your life and your desire for your future.”

Shikles describes attorneys as the curators of the legal system, noting that the world can always use more great attorneys. “Attorneys work every day to deliver justice and ensure all people are treated equally under the law,” he says. “Becoming a successful personal injury attorney requires dedication, creativity, compassion and resilience.”

Before engaging with an expert in the field, clients should do ample research to understand the person they are working with. “An exceptional personal injury attorney will not only have a track record of success but will be

For Shikles, the most rewarding aspect of being an expert in his profession is having “the opportunity to have a profound impact on the lives of everyday people going through the greatest struggles of their life.”

As trade schools become more common, it is important to seek information from a trusted and established program. “It takes a lot of time and energy to successfully finish a training program,” says John Scalise, CEO and president of Job Point. “If you're going to invest all of that into a course, make sure it will actually lead to a great job when you graduate.”

what scholarships or grants are available.”

Why are more people choosing trade school over a traditional college degree?

Trade school may not be what you think of first when you hear Job Point. But it's one of our most sought-after programs. Certifiation programs like ours are increasing in popularity because they lead to jobs quickly. Most of our programs last three to six months and are actively recruited by businesses offering great starting pay. Job Point offers trade courses in Carpentry, HVAC, Highway Maintenance and Repair, Warehouse, CertifiedNursing Assistant and Office Technology, Commercial Driver’s License, Cosmetology and Automotive Technology, with apprenticeships coming soon.

John Scalise President and CEO

“These programs have the potential to change lives.”

There are many opportunities for career advancement in trades, so it is important to choose a training program that will put you on the path toward success. “Anyone interested in signing up or learning more about our courses should contact Job Point,” Scalise says. “We are always here to talk with you about your options and to help identify

Scalise says he has always loved helping people, holding a variety of roles in social services for over 30 years. “Job Point is by far my favorite job,” he says. “There are tangible results to the services we provide. Job Point has so many paths to employment. These programs have the potential to change lives.”

The most rewarding part of the job for Scalise is watching the transformation of the students. “You can see their growth while in the programs and the excitement when they finally obtain employment,” he says. “Job Point is like a big family and past students frequently return to share about their experiences and success.”

Will the next decade look anything like the past?

Most people don't remember but from 19661982 the US stock market went nowhere.

Leading up to that point we had the Nifty 50. Fifty stocks that can only go up. Guaranteed for growth. Investing was simple, just put your money in one of these great growth stocks and forget about it. Valuation didn't matter to investors as they bid them up to stratospheric valuations. But it did matter as the next 16 years illustrate. In the early 1970's those Nifty 50 stocks cratered falling over 50%. It took nearly two decades for investors to get back to even. Some investors cashed out never to invest again. Meanwhile, value investors cleaned up. The groundwork for the fortunes of some great investors was laid in this period, including Buffett and Munger and many others. The setup today is similar. While we don't try to predict market movements, we are preparing for a wide range of outcomes. The more you know about the past the more you can leverage the future to your advantage.

Steve Henry Owner

Steve Henry, the owner of CSH Investment Management LLC, has been passionate about business for as long as he can remember. “I've always had a fascination with business, finance and economics,” he says. “I'm probably more of an analyst than most advisors. I'd be perfectly happy sitting in a room full of research papers and annual reports.” Now, he says he gets to look back fondly knowing people have trusted him and his work for years. “I have families that have been with me

for decades. I cherish the relationship and being part of their trusted inner circle,” he says. “Many have become like family.”

“There are very few endeavors in life where one can get better as they get older. Investing is one of them.”

For those who haven’t found their trusted advisor, Henry says it’s important to look into their past. “Clients should understand an advisor's educational background and professional designations.” But experience also plays a huge role in investing. “There are very few endeavors in life where one can get better as they get older. Investing is one of them,” Henry says.

When seeking care for migraines, James Zielinski, the owner of Ashland Chiropractic & Wellness, says it’s important to seek information from an expert you trust. Today's health care industry is driven by money and medical liability, which biases many practitioners to look out for interests other than the patient’s best regard. The pharmaceutical industry is only interested in getting people on lifelong prescriptions. This has become increasingly obvious to many people since COVID-19. Since the health care industry is very money-driven in this day and age he says, “you need to be your own advocate in today’s health care system.”

“Seeing people escape the crippling effects of migraine headaches and be able to lead more productive and happy lives.”

Being able to help patients feel and function better is what drives Dr. Zielinski. He says he loves “seeing people find relief that they didn't think was possible.” But none of this would be possible if Dr. Zielinski was unable to find his own relief with chiropractic care. Dr. James reports that after his migraine headaches were cured he felt driven to become a chiropractor and help others feel the same relief he found. Now, “seeing people escape the crippling effects of migraine headaches and be able to lead more productive and happy lives,” is Dr. Zielinski’s main driving factor and he hopes he can continue to help people find relief.

Why would I choose Chiropractic to treat migraine headaches?

The normal treatment for migraine headaches consists of drugs or other methods that dull or block the pain receptors that are activated with a migraine, but they don’t address the cause of the migraine. This can give you temporary relief, but it will never fix the poblem that is causing them in the first plae. Also, they have side effects that can build up over time and cause other problems. Chiropractic care targets one of the primary causes of migraines, offering pain relief while also addressing the underlying issue. Over time, this approach can reduce or even eliminate migraines in many cases. Many people report instantaneous relief from migraines when treated with chiropractic care, as well as the eventual lessening or disappearance of migraines altogether! With traditional drugging or botox treatments, the problem keeps coming back in a vicious cycle.

James Zielinski, DC

President - Midwest Academy of Chiropractors

Redtail Drive A, Ashland, MO 65010

What's the proper way to prune a tree?

The best time to prune depends on the species of tree. Some species are susceptible to disease if pruned in the summer, so fall is best. Other species can handle canopy reductions throughout the year. It also depends on how much is being pruned. If it is over 15%, we wait until fall for most species. This is why species-specific puning is necessary.

Eric Merriman Owner

Trees are vital to the atmosphere, so it is important to take special care of them – and it is easy to prune too much or prune the wrong areas, causing the tree to stress out, killing off leads or even dying completely.

"You

After starting his career doing powerline clearance, Eric Merriman, owner of Advanced Tree Solutions LLC, became consumed by the tree work industry, putting time in to study it further.

“I did not believe side trimming the trees was the best way to clear the powerlines, so I decided I can do it the correct way and please my customers instead of leaving them disappointed with a bad-looking tree,” he says.

Most customers are hesitant to get tree

work done because typically they are not home to watch over the progress. When customers put trust into a company to take care of their trees and yard, they should be able to expect good work. Merriman says the most rewarding aspect of his role is when a customer calls to share how thrilled they were with their trees. “Making them excited enough to leave a review is what I live for,” he says.

Before booking a tree service, clients should read online reviews and reach out to the business owner, foreman or manager to familiarize themselves with the company. “You want a professional who is not only knowledgeable, dependable and honest, but can also make you feel comfortable when working on your precious trees," he says.

Alot of information about Medicare can be found online, but there can also be circumstances and scenarios where the internet can’t supplement the advice of an expert. “Things can change in your life and that might be a time that you need to make changes or adjustments to your Medicare Supplement, Prescription Plans or Medicare Advantage Plans,” says Jennifer WesselmanConz, State Farm Insurance Agency owner and agent. “You want to have someone that you trust to work through those changes and give you accurate and helpful advice.”

customers who want help with the Medicare process but don’t know where to get it. “They trust us with their personal insurance needs and when I explain I am able to help with the (Medicare) process, they are grateful,” she says.

“You want to have someone that you trust to work through those changes and give you accurate and helpful advice.”

People often look to their insurance agent for help making the right decision on coverages for personal insurance like auto, home and life insurance. However, Wesselman-Conz says there are many

For Wesselman-Conz, the most rewarding aspect of this role is being able to relieve some uncertainties after people retire. “They shouldn't be stressing over making wrong decisions that financially impact them … they should be enjoying their retirement years knowing they made the right decision for their individual situation,” she says. “I know in my heart I made a difference and I am paying it forward. We all will be there someday, and we need good, honest and educated people to help those in need now and in the future.”

When looking for Medicare plan options and advice, who should you talk to?

Seek help from local, trained and licensed professionals that you trust. It's important to review your options and make educated decisions based on your individual needs. Too often people seek advice from "friends" or they listen to confusing advertisements. Ever y person is different, and every person should not select the same plan. It needs to be based on their individual needs. Those needs-based conversations can be had with a local person.

Jennifer Wesselman-Conz Agent/Owner

What can I do to improve my night vision?

Humans are not nighttime creatures. Low-light vision is difficult for all of us. Reduction in night vision quality can be a normal change with age, but regular exams can rule out eye diseases such as cataracts, corneal and retinal diseases. Simply updating your eyeglass or contact lens prescription can improve your nighttime vision. Maintain your eyeglasses to minimize scratches and consider a high-quality anti-refletive coating for your eyeglass lenses to reduce glare.

Alan Barber, OD

Optometrist

Your eyesight is one of the most precious senses, so Dr. Alan Barber, an optometrist at Clarkson Eyecare, says eye exams should be a part of your health routine.

“An eye exam should be included in any person's overall health maintenance plan,” he says. Ever since he first needed glasses in high school and saw the drastic difference in his eyesight, he knew he wanted to help others have the same clarity. “I put on my first pair of

eyeglasses and saw details that had slowly faded over time. It was a lasting impression that guided me toward my career.”

Now, as an optometrist, Dr. Barber not only prescribes eyeglasses and contact lenses but also helps treat and manage medical eye conditions. He says getting to work with people and better their lives is the best part of his work. “The most rewarding aspect of being an optometrist is the one-on-one time I spend with patients and learning about the person behind the eyes.”

Why is tourism important to Columbia?

Tourism is a vital economic generator for our community. When visitors come to Columbia, they don't just have a great time; they spend money by shopping at our stores, dining in our restaurants, staying in our hotels and attending our events. This spending supports our economy by keeping local businesses open and citizens employed. The tax revenue generated by this spending improves our everyday quality of life and the community we choose to live, work, learn and play in.

Amy Schneider Director

When working in tourism, it’s all about the people. For Amy Schneider, the director of the city of Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau, the most rewarding part of her job is interacting with the people she works with and the ones who visit the community. “The interaction with those who have different life experiences is a daily education,” she says. “New ideas or initiatives at the Convention and Visitors Bureau are often sparked by a simple conversation, and we get to use those ideas to make Columbia a better destination.”

“The interaction with those who have different life experiences is a daily education.”

For anyone who lives in or visits Columbia, it is important to seek information from a trusted source. Those who work day-to-day in

their chosen profession have learned through failures and successes, and they are far better equipped to provide the information needed. “People don't know what they don't know and the internet doesn't always give the full story,” Schneider says. “Finding someone you trust, who is knowledgeable and who has experience is the best way to educate yourself. Schneider found her path in hospitality from an early age, working in just about every position possible at various hotels. Her final position in the hotel industry was in sales, so she says it was a natural fit to move into a role where she represented more than one property. “ The CVB gave me the opportunity to ‘sell’ my entire community and to welcome visitors from all over the world,” she says.

How do I choose a new kitchen sink and/or faucet?

There is a wide variety of kitchen sink and faucet brands, materials, finishes and syles. When people inquire about these, I normally have more questions than expected about what they need. We need to make sure to select something that will work in their space, especially if it's a remodel and there are existing conditions to consider. When we've finishe, they will have something they love, and that works in their space.

Wes Wise Inside Sales Consultant

Whether used for washing hands, watering plants, cooking or drinking, your faucet is important to your day-to-day life. For that reason, it’s important for clients seeking a new kitchen sink or faucet to seek guidance from a trusted resource.

“You don't want to have plumbing fixtures at your house along with a plumber to install them, only to find out what you have will not work,” Wes Wise, inside sales consultant at DKB, says. “Now you have to not only spend more time returning the item and getting something different but also paying the plumber for two visits. Let’s get it right the first time.”

Prior to engaging with an industry expert, customers should have an idea of the parameters and project needs, including materials and budget, as well as a

realistic idea of a project timeline. Wise says he always liked the idea of helping people choose their items to create the kitchen or bath of their dreams. “Seeing a project completed and a happy customer who is proud of their new space” is the most rewarding aspect of being an expert in the profession, he says.

For anyone interested in following in Wise’s footsteps as a sales consultant, he first suggests learning the product as much as possible. “Be yourself and be honest when talking with customers and ask them questions that most others wouldn't because it builds confidence and value in you as a salesperson,” he says. “Set realistic expectations with your customers rather than sugarcoat everything because life and jobs don't always go perfectly.”

I definiely feel that Boonville is up-andcoming and I definiely enjoy helping beautify neighborhoods. I’ve been doing it a very long time in Columbia.

- Amir

Austin Ilsley, the owner of Ai Painting Plus, has always loved historic homes, and when given the chance to work on one he jumped at the chance. “In 2019, I was finally given the opportunity to work on a home built in 1907 and the homeowner informed me that they were seeking an EPAcertified company to properly handle the lead-paint scraping and sanding as they had young children and did not want to compromise their safety,” he says. Not until completing the training did Ilsley learn the true risks of lead-based paint and “how serious lead-paint exposure can be and the importance of having proper procedures.”

“To see a glimpse of their former beauty is quite something.”

What is the most important thing to be aware of when updating paint on a historical home?

The absolute most important thing to be aware of is the presence of lead-based paint. It is required by the Environmental Protection Agency that any business doing any sort of renovation work on homes built before 1978 be certified in the specific otocol for working around lead-based paint. Lead-based paint can pose great health risks to workers and residents of homes. Especially in children, lead poisoning can cause long-lasting/permanent neurological and physical impairments and inhibit proper development.

Austin Ilsley Owner

Now, Ai Painting has five certified

renovators on its staff to keep people safe and secure in their homes. When looking for a trusted expert to work on your historic home, Ilsley says it’s important to always do your research. “Look at Google reviews, photos, etc. to gauge the integrity of the company you are going to be working with. After that ask them specifically about their certifications and verify them.”

Being able to be the expert for those in Columbia and working on historic homes has been incredibly gratifying for Ilsley. “It's not reasonable to say that they will ever look the way they did when they were first built with only prep and paint, but to see a glimpse of their former beauty is quite something.”

Hear, Hear

Sound Arguments and How to Avoid Them

By Jack Wax

The other day, I asked a group of my retired friends whether they ever get irritated with their spouse as a result of a hearing problem. They mentioned blaring televisions, partners who seem to mumble more, and difficulty understanding cellphone conversations. Several rolled their eyes knowingly or pointed at their spouses. For older couples, bickering and hearing loss aren’t inevitable, but they frequently go together.

Case in point: I have a mild hearing impairment, and like millions of others who are over 65, I wear hearing aids. I know I say “what?” a lot, but I didn’t realize how much my hearing loss was affecting my marriage until the morning of our 50th wedding anniversary.

A spat got in the way of our special day. My wife, Kay, was talking on the phone with one of our sons. We were both outside and I was coiling a garden hose, about 20 feet from her. Kay said something to me, and as frequently

happens outdoors, her words were lost in the wind. I didn’t respond because I didn’t feel like going through the rigmarole of shouting for her to repeat herself. Sometimes I get sick of asking her (and others) to repeat themselves. Next thing I knew, she was irritated at me for apparently ignoring her. I was irritated

recent nationwide survey found that about two-thirds of people 71 and older have some hearing loss, and that by age 85, nearly everyone is having some trouble hearing. That can translate into a lot of bickering going on among couples where one person has trouble hearing and the other being heard. Or worse, when both

"It can become a frustration on both sides, especially when it’s happening day in and day out to retired couples who are around each other a lot more than they used to be."

at her for being irritated at me. Voices were raised; feeling were hurt. Goodbye, celebratory mood.

There is nothing unusual about my hearing loss, its progression and its interference in my ability to communicate with my spouse. Hearing problems are actually the norm for older adults. A

are a bit hard of hearing.

“It can become a frustration on both sides, especially when it’s happening day in and day out to retired couples who are around each other a lot more than they used to be,” says Dusty Jessen, a Littleton, Colo., audiologist. Jessen has seen so many patients struggle with the effects

of mild hearing loss that she created the Five Keys to Communications Success program that helps her clients improve their communications skills.

Audiologists, such as Jessen, appreciate but don’t hype the benefits of hearin aids. Those benefits ae real and

catching every word someone says isn’t that bad, is it? Research and clinical experience say otherwise. People who have trouble hearing tend to withdraw from frustrating situations, such as group conversations. They may miss out on social events, avoiding the stress of

"One person may think he or she is being ignored or that their partner may not care about what she said –without realizing that their partner can’t hear them."

contribute to a better life for those needing them. But hearing aids only amplify sound and may help eliminate background noise. Alone, they don’t solve communication problems. “A lot of times, communications breakdown because of outside factors, such as someone talking from the other side of the house or responding with their head in the refrigerator. Hearing aids aren’t a magic bullet when communication partners are not doing their part,” Jessen says.

Does it really matter? Occasionally getting annoyed with a spouse or not

trying to converse in noisy restaurants or with more than one person at a time. This can lead to isolation, which can lead to depression and increase the risk of dementia. Hearing impairment is now recognized as one of the leading modifiale midlife risk factors for later development of the disease. “Modifiale” is the key word, one that can lead to a healthy, rewarding future instead of difficult years spent coping with cognitive problems.

Successful communications between partners are important for hearing impaired adults as well as those who

have no hearing impairment. “Good communication is such a big part of a healthy relationship that we don’t want that communication breaking down for any reason,” says Bria Collins of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She recommends that couples go together when one of them is having their hearing tested or being fitte for a hearing aid. That way they both talk to the audiologist, ensuring that they both understand the extent of the hearing problem and how to reduce its impact on their lives.

This shared understanding is critical to avoiding future problems. “One person may think he or she is being ignored or that their partner may not care about what she said – without realizing that their partner can’t hear them,” says Collins.

Neither dementia nor relationship problems are inevitable for people with hearing loss. All it takes is an intentional strategy and a lot of practice to create workarounds that reduce misunderstandings between spouses or friends of people with hearing loss.

Audiologists and speech language pathologists teach those workarounds routinely to hearing impaired couples. Based on working with hundreds of hearing-impaired individuals, Jessen

has grouped her suggestions for better communications into five mai areas. These are: technology, speaker responsibilities, listener activities, environmental changes and practice. By building a communications strategy grounded in these areas, people with hearing loss and their partners can reduce the irritation and problems that too frequently interfere with their understanding of each other.

Jessen starts with the fact that a hearing aid should be a given for people with hearing loss. Although it’s common for older adults to deny their hearing problems or back away from the idea and expense of wearing hearing aids, the tiny, barely visible devices are a necessity for someone with mild to moderate hearing loss. And, the earlier someone’s hearing is improved, the better it is for their health and happiness. Then comes the need for teamwork -- speakers and listeners have to work together, both making the effort to communicate clearly with each other. This can mean never shouting from one room to another, or getting someone’s attention before addressing them. Or it can be as simple as selecting a quiet, welllit booth in a restaurant and speaking face to face, making sure the menu is held near the table where it doesn’t hide either of their mouths and muffle their words. It can also mean that when the speaker hears his partner say “What?” he takes the trouble of finding dierent words instead of repeating the same words. “The most common sounds that people with hearing loss miss are the consonant sounds — like the s, t and k. When a person with a hearing loss says ‘what?’ to their partner, the partner typically raises their voice, repeating the very words that can’t be heard. There’s no way to make those soft consonants sound louder. Their voice gets louder and to their partner it just sounds like they’re angry. Finding different words to express the same thoughts can solve this problem,” Jessen says.

Jessen points out that the environment can almost always be altered. Dishwashers can be turned off; Vs can be turned

down; water running into a sink can be shut off. inally, communications take practice. Jessen notes that by the time an older person starts using hearing aids, he or she has had years of poor communications habits behind them and that it takes time and practice to change those habits. One of those habits is especially harmful. Instead of acknowledging their difficulty understanding a speaker, hearingimpaired listeners may resort to “faking it,” by smiling and appearing to follow a conversation, when, in fact, they are struggling, trying to fill in the gaps o sounds and words they don’t hear. Good communication requires honesty, even if it means asking someone to speak louder, more clearly or to help by substituting different words.

All these techniques are part of what audiologists refer to as “aural rehabilitation.” For many people, lip reading is also a part of their rehabilitation. “Almost everybody can benefit fom some degree of lip reading,” says Tessa Nguyen, audiologist at MU Health. “Even people with normal hearing watch others’ lips move as they make speech sounds,” she says. Some audiologists can help train people to master this skill; other times it requires the expertise of a speech-language pathologist.

But none of these strategies can impact individuals and couples until a person’s hearing loss is recognized as a problem. That’s not as easy as it sounds. “Hearing loss comes on gradually as we age,” says Nguyen. She recommends that older adults get their hearing screened each year as part of their annual checkup or if they notice any hearing problems. If the screening shows some loss, then a full evaluation with an audiologist or hearing aid specialist is in order. If there are other symptoms, such as drainage or ear pain, those professionals will refer their clients to an Ear Nose and Throat specialist.

In the past, hearing aids were bulky and obvious. But since the Food and Drug Administration lifted the prohibition on over-the-counter hearing aids, the

Learn More About Hearing and Better Communications BOOKS

Five Keys to Communications Success by Dusty Jessen, Au.D

Hear and Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss by Shari Eberts and Gael Hannan

WEBSITES

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, www.asha.org

Hearing Loss Association of America, www.hearingloss.org

PODCASTS

"The Hearing Matters" Podcast by Blaise Delfino and Douglas Bec "Hearing Wellness Journey" Podcast by Dawn Heiman and Lindsey Dohgerty

number and types of new hearing aids has exploded. New technology is also giving consumers more choices and features, with prices ranging from $100 to $7,000 for a pair of hearing aids. The more expensive models usually come with Bluetooth so they can be controlled by smart phones with a variety of adjustable settings, programmed to minimize car noises, the clatter of restaurants or the echo of large rooms. Some are beginning to have AI built in so that they learn to adapt by themselves to different hearing environments. Nguyen points out that although OTC models may be good for some people with mild hearing problems, that the hearing aids prescribed by audiologists and hearing instrument specialists are more sophisticated and are programmed specifically to an individual’s hearing profie.

Regardless of the amount of technology people put in their ears, it’s the strategic approach to communication in their brains that is essential if they want to understand others and to be heard – as well as avoid sound arguments.

EXPERT ELECTRICIANS WORKING WITH PRECISION!

At Precision Electric, we provide an array of electrical services, both residential and commercial, and every new project is an exciting venture for our team; an opportunity to practice our craft and give your projects the service they deserve. Our attention to detail, quality of service, expert insight, and friendly team members set us apart from any other. We do it best. We

do it with precision.

Precision Electric has been a staple in the midMissouri electrical industry since 1999. Founder Todd Noordsy knew, with years of electrical experience and education as well as his can-do attitude and people-first mission, nobody would do it better than Precision Electric.

In 2008, Todd’s son, Andy, joined the team. Andy

started as an electrician in the field before working his way up to the office and, eventually, into project management. He earned his Master Electrician license in 2021 and soon took over all day-to-day operations at Precision Electric. In March of 2022, Todd sold Precision Electric to Andy and he continues to work diligently as he carries Precision Electric

into it's second generation of family ownership. What Todd and Andy have created at Precision Electric is unmatched. They genuinely care about helping people. “Whether it's finding the most quality product that fits your budget and timeline or prioritizing energy conservation, putting a smile on your face puts an even bigger one on ours!"

Indoor Fun with Grandkids

ACTIVITIES TO BRIGHTEN A GLOOMY DAY

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER AND ZOLA HECK

Don't let the weather get your grandkids down — there's no better occasion to enjoy cozy indoor fun. Try some of these ideas to brighten everyone's spirit and strengthen your family bond.

MAKE A TENT OR FORT.

Indoor tents and forts make fun play areas as well as cozy retreats for reading or watching movies. To build a tent, take several bed sheets, tablecloths or blankets and hang them over tables or backwardfacing chairs. For a more permanent structure, connect PVC tubing into the shape of a box. Then drape over it with sheets.

HOLD AN ART WORKSHOP.

Gather the basics such as paper, paint and markers. Then scrounge for a variety of recyclables such as boxes, toilet paper rolls, plastic bottles, caps, old magazines and anything else you can think of. If you have any crafting supplies such as yarn, fabric or glitter, pull those out as well. Then let your family's inspiration flow, and create to everyone's heart's content.

DO A READ-IN.

First, head to the Daniel Boone Regional Library and have everyone pick out some books. When you return home, pull out pillows and blankets in the family room, and spend the day lounging and reading. Another option is for everyone to take turns reading aloud from a book that's geared toward all ages.

LEARN SELF-DEFENSE. Rent or buy a martial arts DVD on basic self-defense. Then gather your grandkids to practice techniques that could help them escape a dangerous situation.

HOLD A MAGIC SHOW. Pick up magic trick books or watch magic videos online. Then practice up, and invite the neighborhood kids to come and watch your act.

HAVE A DANCE-A-THON. Crank up the volume to some pop, hip-hop or whatever your grandkids' favorite music is, and see whose energy holds out the longest.

PLAY BAKERY. What better way to warm up on a chilly day and enjoy family time than to bake up some tasty treats? Make a day of it and get all your baking done in advance for an upcoming gathering or so you have treats to store. After you've sufficiently sampled the goodies, freeze the remainder.

SIZZLING SCIENCE FUN. Search online for fun experiments you can conduct at home with basic household products and ingredients. Perform a few. Then make a video of a really cool one to post on YouTube.

DO A WORKOUT.

Physical fitness is vital for the entire family. Look for a HIIT, Zumba or another cardiovascular exercise video with today's hottest music and moves.

PAINT A WALL MURAL.

Is your family artistic? If so, choose a wall in your basement, garage, mudroom or playroom in need of a personal touch. Before you begin, draw your mural idea on a piece of paper. Then buy three or four quarts of primary color paints plus a quart of white and black. You can mix the colors at home to create additional colors and shades.

HOLD A GAME NIGHT.

Pull out the cards and board games and gather some snacks. Then start keeping score to see who the night’s grand winner will be.

ENJOY A PICNIC.

Who says picnics are only for outdoors? Put together all the fixings of a picnic complete with a picnic basket if you have one. Then spread out a blanket in your family room and enjoy the grub.

TELL STORIES.

Write a dozen or so story prompts each on a separate piece of paper and toss them into a bowl. Then take turns pulling out a story prompt and telling a story. Another option is for one person to start the story. Then, go around the room, and each of you adds a sentence to the story. See how long you can keep the story alive.

GET CULTURED.

Choose a culture your grandkids would like to experience and learn more about. Look for recipes from that culture online as well as mealtime customs for a fuller experience. Then have everyone pitch in and help cook the international fare.

PERFORM A PUPPET SHOW.

Pull out old socks or brown paper lunch bags and make your own puppets. Draw on faces and use yarn or string for the hair. Then take turns performing your acts.

Local indoor venues for family fun and activities

BONKERS

3812 Buttonwood Drive goingbonkers.com

If you’re looking for a place to let your kiddos climb, crawl and play, Bonkers in Columbia is the place to be. Enjoy an arcade, a bouncing ride, a play maze, a super slide, a BuildA-Bear Workshop and a wall crawl! Plus, you can celebrate all your wins with prizes from the prize center!

LEVEL UP ENTERTAINMENT

2300 Bernadette Drive levelupthefun.com

Level Up Entertainment has all the interactive games you need to enjoy with your family. From bowling, laser tag and ropes courses to mini golf, roller skating and arcade games, Level Up really has it all!

SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK

7175 Oakland Mills Road skyzone.com

Have one-of-a-kind fun at Sky Zone with your family this winter whether you are taking a day off fom school, looking for a place to hang on the weekends or celebrating a birthday, Sky Zone has all the jumping, playing, climbing and sliding for you to enjoy. And don’t worry, the little ones won’t miss out with their super cool toddler zone made just for them. Let the fun begin!

TIGER BOUNCE

3601 Buttonwood Drive tigerbouncecolumbia.com

The perfect child entertainment is right around the corner at Tiger Bounce. Designed specifically or children 12 and under, Tiger Bounce is the spot for private parties, meet and greet events with your kids’ favorite characters, soft play climbing structures, bounce houses, a skating and activity floor and so much moe!

TINY TOWN PLAY CAFÉ

901 E. Nifong, suite B tinytownplaycafe.com

Tiny Town Play Cafe is an indoor playspace and coffee shop for families with kids nine and under. While your little ones explore six child-sized playhouses—a grocery store, school, office, house, vet clinic and construction site— designed for imaginative play, parents can enjoy locally brewed coffee and treats.

A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC

Sugar cookies are a staple of the holiday season and always taste better homemade. The Food Network shared their easy, crowd-pleasing recipe for classic sugar cookies. Sift together three cups flou, ¾ tablespoon baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add one cup softened butter, one cup sugar, one beaten egg and one tablespoon of milk. Chill the dough for two hours, then cut into your favorite holiday shapes and bake at 375 degrees for nine minutes. Spruce up your sugar cookies with frosting and enjoy!

Raising the Bar

In The Mix 114

Chef’s Charcuterie 120 Dust-Ups

Bar on Wheels

LOGBOAT BREWING ROLLS OUT NEW CAR BAR.

Logboat Brewing Co. has been a staple in Columbia since opening its doors in 2014, offering unique, delicious craft beer and cider to the mid-Missouri area. After finishing ts expansion earlier this year, Logboat launched a new venture, the Car Bar, or bar on wheels, with its first evets in July.

Chelsea Jernigan, the offste event coordinator for Logboat, says this all started from a brainstorming session. “We knew we wanted a small footprint that could bridge a lot of gaps,” she says. “We liked the idea of a mobile truck bar.”

Once the opportunity came to turn an old truck into a new adventure, they just couldn’t say no. “The Car Bar came to be because of a great opportunity to get an old chip delivery truck,” Jernigan says.

BY ZOLA HECK · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

“I was already doing offste events, and this landed in our laps, so we decided to go for it once there was space and time to collaborate across departments for the build-out.”

While the Car Bar is still very new, with more promos in the works, Jernigan says they have been able to park at a couple of events to work out all the kinks. “We left with a lot shorter of a todo list than I thought there would be.”

Jernigan says Tony Perri, the operations manager at Logboat, built the truck in a way that made the launch a smooth process. “Tony did a great job covering bases, figuring out hat issues we might run into and solving them preemptively.”

One of the problems they avoided was running out of storage as “he built floorto-ceiling huge racks, so we are able to

store everything on the truck instead of running back and forth and having to get everything,” she says.

Since opening the bar on wheels, Jernigan says the community has been just as excited as they are, showing support in many ways, including on social media. “It’s the only thing like it,” she says. “Getting the congratulatory responses has been solidifying our decision to do this, people saying, ‘Oh wow, I never even thought that this could be a thing.’”

Jernigan says at times that thought even crossed their minds, asking themselves how they would make this work, but in the end, “(they) took a leap and it turned out cooler than we thought it would.” The leap led them to work several events in the summer

alone, setting up shop around town and showing off the incedible design on the outside. The stunning wrap was designed by Sarah Snowgren, the creative director at Logboat. “If you look closely at the wrap, it’s not just a black and gray background,” Jernigan says. Part of it is the astronaut helmet seen in many of Logboat’s designs and the other part is the Waves logo. “The work she (Snowgren) did on it is so detailed and beautiful,” Jernigan says. But that design wasn’t the only option. Jernigan says the design process took months as they oscillated between several different ideas. “At one point the truck was going to be Kelly green, and then they looked at chrome,” Jernigan says. “She spent months narrowing down this design and filling i the details and the blanks.”

Now that the bar on wheels is moving and grooving, on the inside and outside, Jernigan has had time to reflect on how it is working in the taproom versus being an offste bartender and server.

“I love event bartending,” she says. “It’s a lot different speed than working the taproom. It’s a slower speed, you really get to interact with different guests, and you get to join in on people’s celebrations in a way that you don’t get to in the taproom.”

Even before this Car Bar came to be, Jernigan says being able to be a part of people’s events around town has been a big part of why she loves to work offste. “It is a really strong pull toward events for me in general,” she says. “I love watching my hard work flourish in front of my eyes; it’s pretty fun.”

As a whole, Logboat hopes this new bar on wheels will help them get out into the community more and be a part of local gatherings. “We want the community to know that investing in the community around us is even more accessible now. We now have the ability to join in on

Investing in the community around us is even more accessible now. “

more events and are making plenty of beer to do so,” Jernigan says.

The most exciting part for her and her team, is getting to be a part of all different kinds of events and spark conversation about their new adventure while being a part of a positive experience. “This truck can join in on any sort of celebration or get together and create a really fun atmosphere and conversation about what we're building.”

No matter the event you are planning, Jernigan says the Car Bar has the “capabilities to be huge.” The bar has eight draft lines that can serve beer and cider as well as a separate line for Turtle Power, which Jernigan says is Logboat’s popular batch cocktail that they typically serve in the taproom. “We can go as full of a bar as beer, cider, wine, liquor and soda; I have space for all of it.”

For a typical event, Jernigan says she will need two to three weeks total to prepare for the event, which includes time to gather the permits through the state and come up with the menu. Jernigan usually brings three to four beers and a cider if the customers prefer, and wine and liquor if requested.

Along with the alcohol capabilities, Jernigan says the space within the Car Bar is very comfortable with the bar portion sitting at 16 feet long and the

serving window at four feet long. The space can hold two bartenders serving simultaneously without running out of room. “The two of us can serve side by side and keep the line moving pretty quickly,” she says. “There is a lot of room in there, it is awesome.”

As for the future of the Car Bar, Jernigan says “the possibilities are endless.” She says with the quantity of beer available she could do two events a day, every day of the week. “There is no limit,” she says.

Her goal is to have two events per week during the busy months and grow from there. While the Car Bar is Jernigan’s full-time job, she says it wouldn’t be possible without the collaborative efforts across the board. Whether you are planning a corporate event, a private birthday party, an anniversary party, a celebration of life, a wedding or any other type of gathering, you can now enjoy the luxuries of Logboat and their delicious flvors wherever you might be celebrating. To reserve the bar on wheels, there is a $1,200 minimum, which includes the truck rental and labor. Jernigan says if you want to book the Car Bar, you can go to logboatbrewing.com/temp-events and fill out the orm or email Jernigan at cjernigan@logboatbrewing.com.

Cranberry Christmas

LOCAL CHEF SHOWS HOW TO USE CAKE MIX CREATIVELY.

BY SARA FOUGERE · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

I’m going to admit something to you here. Sometimes, I use a cake mix.

I know. It’s hard to say and hear, but here’s the thing: I’m super busy during the Christmas season. It’s a busy I love, but it doesn’t leave a ton of time for all that gorgeous home baking I want to do. And when the busy season ends for me, about Dec. 23, I want to spend time with my family. I want more opening presents, laughs around the table, memories made and traditions cherished. I don’t want to spend those few precious hours on things that don’t matter to my people. So, I have a few recipes, like this one, that cut a few corners on time and convenience but not on flvor, presentation or fun. This cake uses great holiday flvors like orange and cranberry and can be made as a beautiful Bundt, a couple of sturdy loaves or even a layer cake if you desire. It’s quick enough to be on the table by the end of dinner and you can whip up a couple extra for neighbors and guests. I love it and I know you will as well. Give yourself some grace. Make a quick, delicious cake and use those extra hours to view holiday lights or carol with friends. You won’t regret it. I promise I don’t!

Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake

CAKE INGREDIENTS

•1 package yellow cake mix with pudding in it

•1 cup water

•½ melted butter

•Grated zest of one orange

CAKE DIRECTIONS

•4 eggs

•1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped- don’t thaw if frozen. I’ve also used dry and it works.

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a bundt pan (get in all the grooves). Beat cake mix, water, butter, orange peel and eggs with an electric mixer on low for 30 seconds, then on medium for two mins. Scrape bowl, and fold in cranberries. Pour into pan. Bake for one hour and test with a toothpick. Cool 10 mins and then turn pan upside down on an rack or plate. Serve with orange sauce.

ORANGE BUTTER SAUCE INGREDIENTS

•1 cup sugar

•1 tablespoon flour

ORANGE SAUCE DIRECTIONS

PRINT STIMULATES EMOTIONS AND DESIRES

PRINT IS PREFERRED BY THE MAJORITY (EVEN MILLENNIALS)

PRINT READERS EXPERIENCE MORE FOCUSED ATTENTION AND LESS DISTRACTION, WHICH DRIVES SENSORY INVOLVEMENT CONTRIBUTING TO GREATER READER IMPACT, COMPREHENSION AND RECALL.

•½ cups orange juice

•½ butter, cut into pieces

Mix sugar and flour in a small saucepan. Stir in orange juice. Add butter, stir constantly until thick and bubbly.

Charcuterie Celebration

TIPS ON TURNING CHARCUTERIE BOARDS INTO CANAPES.

BY BROOK HARLAN · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

This time of year, it’s not uncommon to find ou you have guests coming over for a visit on short notice. They are in town with family for the holiday, now you need a quick snack or app selection for guests. While sometimes a sleeve of Ritz and some port wine cheese dip will do the trick, you need something more substantial for your impromptu guests. You might find ourself doing this several times throughout the holiday season. Having a few different selections in your repertoire will save your family from boredom and make your noshes the life of the party.

A few staple items in your refrigerator or freezer are great, but not always necessary. If you use some of the items below on a normal basis, by all means, keep them on hand, but the last thing you need is a refrigerator full of cheese, meat and bread going bad because you didn’t use them fast enough. Having a rotating selection of one or two cheeses you like, a few salamis and bread is a great start, maybe some fruit or cooked and chilled vegetables - sometimes a mini charcuterie board might be all that you need.

CHEESE

Grab one or two cheeses that you like. Make them different enough that your guest has options. They might taste a

new one at your house that becomes their favorite. Use a firmer chees and a softer cheese, or an aged cheese and a younger one. A few examples of tried-and-true combinations: Brie and Gouda, fresh goat cheese and Gruyere, truffle aged cheddar and Havarti, d'Affinois and Prima Donna,t. Andre and your own cheese spread, made by mixing some grated cheese, herbs, sauteed vegetables and cream cheese, seasoned to taste. It is a great way to use items you have in the fridge and change it up each time.

BREAD

Grab a baguette, flatbead, pita, focaccia or boule and slice it all into cracker size pieces. Serve half of the pieces as is with the cheese, then lightly oil the other half, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toast in the oven at 400 degrees for three to six minutes until slight color has formed; now you have crostini to serve along with your bread (or turn some into canapes as well, more info later).

SALAMI

Find a store to explore your options of salami and cured meat. It may take a couple dozen times before you will be even close to trying them all. It does not have to always be salami. Try a pack of cured salmon or ask for a one-inch slice of pancetta from the deli. You can

serve prosciutto or thinly slice a heavily seasoned, medium rare steak for protein.

FRUITS/VEGETABLES

Strawberries, sliced apples, roasted cauliflower (see the September/October article), sauteed asparagus, broccoli with pepper flaes. Why chilled? You need to be able to enjoy the party, cook the item an hour or two beforehand, make sure it is a little over-seasoned (it will not be once it is cold) then put it into the refrigerator to cool. You can have this on the side to snack on as well to help round out your charcuterie board.

HOW MUCH

For a party that runs one to two hours, you can have roughly the amount below to make sure you have enough food. Having a variety of each item — multiple cheeses, bread, meats, and fruit allows your guests to try a variety of items, and hopefully, everyone can fin something they enjoy. If you have some of each category, you can probably err closer to the lower side, unless you want to make sure you have leftovers.

• Cheese - about one to two ounces

• Meat/Salami - about two to three ounces (a little less of dried salami)

• Bread - about four to five slces of bread

• Fruit/Vegetables - three to four ounces

CHARCUTERIE TO CANAPE

If your party is going to be a little longer, but not long enough for a full meal, think about making a few canapes. Base, spread, main/garnish. This does not need to be complicated; you can probably utilize some of the charcuterie board components to make something. Sometimes you might have people in the dining room, kitchen, living room, or elsewhere. A charcuterie board might not lend itself to your guests while not being close to a table, and not being able to use utensils, it might be easier to have a one or two-bite canape. You don’t have to buy a whole other set of groceries, you can just utilize some of the components you already have. Maybe add a few other items from the refrigerator and make one or two canapes for other parts of the house where getting items from a

charcuterie board may not be as easy. Guests will eat about six to eight canapes at a one-to two-hour party.

BASE

A base is typically bread-based, but does not have to be. Use the crostini method discussed previously. You are looking for a base that has some fat to repel moisture. The addition of heat to the fat transforms it from oily or soggy to crisp once cool. You want to heat just long enough that a slight color has formed, and the bread has become crisp, but not enough that it completely crumbles with a bite.

SPREAD

You don’t need a recipe, you already have delicious cheese. Crumble it, cut it into small pieces, add a little cream

cheese, add a little sour cream (to thin and bind) and taste it. Add some salt, pepper, dried herbs, a little hot sauce, mustard and caramelized onions.

Balance with a little acid, salt, or maybe some sweet. You want a spread that will spread easier than peanut butter, but thicker than sour cream.

MAIN

Your main can be a protein, vegetable, fruit or just a spread with a little garnish. Salmon, steak, salami, asparagus, apples — just make sure that it is bite-sized and balanced with flvors and texture. Try making a mixture with cheeses, add in some of your diced vegetables or fruit and top with a little minced herb, chopped pickle, minced olive or another component from your platter that might add a bit of flvor, texture or color.

Snowy Sip

DUSTY BOTTLES CAN CREATE A DELICIOUS RUM COCKTAIL.

BY PAUL FROESCHLE · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON

This is what my brother and I like to call a "dusty bottle drink.” We like to go through our home collection to fin bottles we haven't used in a while (sometimes they're dustier than others) to see if we can fin an interesting use for them. Most of the time they end up just okay, but this one is special. Good for weirdly warm winter days or bitterly cold sunsets.

A Winter Sunset

INGREDIENTS

1 ounce Laird's bottles in bond applejack

½ ounce Plantation OFTD rum

1 ounce fresh lemon juice

TO MAKE THE DRINK

1-2 bar spoons of St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram ¼ to ½ ounce red wine float (I like a merlot for this)

Shake over ice and strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass.

Paul Froeschle is a bartender at Top Ten Wines.

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ELECTION SECTION

We want to hear your thoughts on this year’s presidential election. Whether you’re reflecting on the candidates and their campaigns before the big day or discussing the outcomes and implications after the votes are tallied, we want to hear from you. Join the conversation and share what you think about the election on our social media pages!

A Year in Review

REFLECTING ON THE 2024 DUELING DJS COMPETITIONS.

In each issue, multiple on-air talents from Zimmer Communications’ stations take on a seemingly simple challenge to see who comes out on top. Make sure to visit insidecolumbia.net to see a video of each challenge!

MOST CREATIVE COMPETITION:

You might think playing miniature golf would be impossible without a course. But for this challenge, Trevor from 96.7 KCMQ and Carson from Y107 putted their way through the Zimmer Communications office for an indoor miniature golf competition built out of solo cups.

GROSSEST COMPETITION:

Producer Hannah from 93.9 The Eagle and Andy from KTGR went head-to-head to see who could guess items the quickest based only on how they felt. Let’s just say some items were pretty squishy.

FASTEST COMPETITION:

What could’ve been a long event, turned out to be one of our fastest competitions yet! Brian Hanson and Randy Tobler from 93.9 The Eagle had to take on a series of minigames and see who could complete the challenges fist. And man, did Randy take that and run with it.

UNEXPECTEDLY SLOW COMPETITION:

When it comes to the classic game of corn hole, you would think fast-paced and exhilarating. Well, our DJs Josh from Clear99 and Kristin from Y107, took a more concentrated, slower approach, ending the game after a long 45 minutes.

MOST THRILLING COMPETITION:

We risked it all and gave two of our DJs axes to throw for this competition, and it did not disappoint! While it took a while to score a point, Scotty from Clear 99 and Brian Hauswirth from 93.9 The Eagle gave it their all and, in the end, had an axe-ellent time.

1 Million Cups 11th Anniversary Celebration

1 Million Cups, the inclusive, weekly gathering of local entrepreneurs, celebrated 11 years in Columbia at Logboat Brewing Company. One of the organization’s earliest members, Tyson Hunt, spoke to the hopeful business-owners and supporters in attendance. The January Lanterns provided live music and attendees took brewery tours and enjoyed food, drinks and raffle items.

Date

Aug. 14

Location

Logboat Brewing Company

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

Joe Knight, Makenzie Schouten, Mark Claypole

Evan Foster and Ben McDougal

Brad Crum and Tim Knarr

Kerrie Bloss, Kasey Hammock, Beth Cowgill

DW Cole and Mikel Fields

Trish Koetting and Shaunda Hamilton

Pia Capell and Griffinapell

United Way Kickoff

The Heart of Missouri United Way held its 2024 Campaign Kickoff in the Arcade District. Dozens of volunteers and staff enjoed barbecue from Irene's. Attendees heard from the community cochairs, Dr. Lauren and Rhett Brengarth about this year's goals.

Date Aug. 28

Location

Sentinel Park

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

Duron Singleton, Talia Jackson, Eryca Neville, Damian Dean, Kerrick Jackson

Adam Crumbliss, Dr. Lauren and Rhett Brengarth, Andrew Grabau

Liz DelGrosso and Cynthia Schreen

Aayushi Patel and Krista Myer

Shelby Roberts and Misty Spain

Amy Harvey and David Holtgraewe

Lorraine Gustavis and Pasha Pukhovski

Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Membership Breakfast

The Chamber of Commerce held its first quartery membership breakfast, hosting 400 attendees. Among them were business owners, leaders and representatives from a multitude of Columbia’s diverse work industries. Gold sponsor Huber and Associates spoke on the importance of a tech partnership in today's hectic world. Mizzou's athletic director, Laird Veatch, updated chamber members on the challenges and opportunities facing collegiate athletics.

Date Sept. 4

Location

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

Matt McCormick, Laird Veatch, Euphenie Andre

Heather Stewart, Matt Bear, Andrea Lyn Seppo

Stephanie Smit and Lisa Driskel Hawxby

Kayla Wilbers and Kerrie Bloss

Eric Morrison and Michael Huber

Keri Simon and Beth Alpers

Aaron and Rebekah Cate

Building a Brighter Future

The Heart of Missouri CASA is a nonprofit organization powered by volunteers who offer stable support to children as they navigate through the foster care system in Boone and Callaway counties. The event raised funds for the "Building a Brighter Future Campaign.” The funds raised will help towards establishing a new headquarters for the organization and help expand support for professional services and advocacy.

Date Sept. 13 Location Tom and Jane Smith's Photos by Madelyn Jones

Friends of CASA

Alyssa Adams

Tom, Rosemary, Rob, and Katherine Christensen

Phil Griggs, Reed Flaherty, Jen Flaherty, Lisa Griggs Brian Myers, Heather Myers, Shelly Devore, Dave Llewellyn

Chip Jones, Tom Smith, Tom Christensen

Jane Smith, Rosalie McDonald

FORE The House Golf Tournament

Two hundred golfers participated in 18 holes of Ronald McDonald House Charities’ tournament at The Country Club of Missouri. They raised $109 ,000 for the charity, which provides a home away from home for the families of children being treated at nearby hospitals. The tournament included on-course games, prizes, food and, of course, golf.

Date Sept. 16

Location

The Country Club of Missouri

Photos by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mid-Missouri

Leah Sirois, Kelly Hoover, Amanda Alcamo, Tennille Lester

Dustin and Jennifer Backes, Caleb and Lindsey Jones

Ed Erdel, MacKenzie Thorp, Mac LeMone, Nate Moenkhoff

Cindy Glennon, Cheryl Stansberry, Kate Mehle, Lesley PughGarrett Taylor, Evan Halberg, Adam Plues, Drue Duncan

Chris Wolf, Joe Gerke, Kyle Prenger, Philip Fancher

Kyle Miller, Damian Walker, Lane Sutton, Ross Arnett

Columbia Public Schools Foundation Hall of Leaders

The Columbia Public Schools Foundation Hall of Leaders event was held Sept. 25 , 2024 , at the State Historical Society of Missouri. The event highlighted the Foundation’s grants and programs and celebrated the 2024 Hall of Leaders: Outstanding Alumnus Taylor Trogdon and Outstanding Retired Educators Chris Belcher, Mary Humlicek and Sue Young.

Date Sept. 25 Location

State Historical Society of Missouri

Photos by Madelyn Jones

Chris Belcher, Mary Humlicek, Sue Young, Taylor Trogdon

Chris Harris, Katie Harris, David Townsend

Lynnanne Baumgardner and Denise Latorre

Jeff Wallace, Lynn Barnett, Dave Sleper, David Tyson SmithSuzette Waters, April Ferrao, John Lyman, Kathy Steinhoff

Enid Schatz, S. David Mitchell, Sara Schuett

Shelli Adams, Linda Quinley, Lazell Ofiel, Jeff lein, Dr. Brian Yearwood

Boone County History and Culture Center Hall of Fame Gala

The Boone County Historical Society hosted their Hall of Fame Gala, where they annually induct one prominent business, one individual and bestow a posthumous induction upon a late, influential Columbian. This year, dance instructor Halcyone Perlman was inducted into the Hall of Fame, along with Central Bank and the late Dr. Roland and Ruth Wiggins. Dr. Roland Wiggins was a cardiologist at Boone County Hospital and Ruth made history as Hickman’s first lack educator. Auction items at the gala included a wine tasting and a week-long vacation to Georgia.

Date

Oct. 5

Location

Country Club of Missouri

Photos by L.G. Patterson

Members of the Hall of Fame Gala Planning Committee

Vicki Russell

Jennie Johnson family

Ed and Gina Scavone

David Wilson and Arin Liberman

Kate King, Halcyone Perlman, Branca Prentiss, David Rees

Alex and Robin LaBrunerie

THANK YOU!

We extend our deepest gratitude to BECTrust for their unwavering support and generosity. Their contribution is not just an award, but an investment in our community's future. THANK YOU!

This grant has enabled us to enhance our technological capabilities with the purchase of cutting-edge VR headsets, smart boards, computers and more.

Thank you, Boone Electric Community Trust, for powering our dreams and helping us create a brighter tomorrow.

A New View

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

Assignment:

Walking Downtown Columbia

The Location: 9th Street

Comments:

“I have always told people that the key to taking good photos is the photographer, not the camera."

Now I am not sure that is true. It was Wednesday around noon when I sat down on the bench outside Shakespeare’s Pizza downtown, getting ready to meet a bunch of fellow photographers for lunch.

My camera was sitting next to me when I noticed my monitor was on and I saw this image on the screen. I was struck by the symmetrical lines the bench created. I didn’t notice that visual balance, but my

camera did. Without getting up, I just took some photos while my camera sat on the bench. I believe that the camera was showing me a photo that I was missing. It’s kind of unnerving to think that maybe the photos I take are actually because of the camera and not me.

L.G. Patterson

WI Miss Hank Waters

LONGTIME TRIBUNE PUBLISHER KEPT US IN CHECK.

hile I can’t claim to have known Hank Waters well, I did spend nearly 30 years reading every one of his daily editorials in the Columbia Daily Tribune. Hank and I shared similar views on very few things, however, we found ourselves in lockstep on what needed to be done with the Boone County Fairgrounds and with the lopsided lease negotiated between the Boone Hospital Board of Trustees and St. Louis-based BJC Healthcare. That small piece of common ground, and a cold refreshing Stag beer, was enough to forge a friendship. Regardless of how I felt about his sometimes left-leaning viewpoints, I admired his willingness to put himself in the line of fie to forge a salient dialogue about our beloved community.

Hank passed away in 2020 at the age of 90. With his death, Columbia lost a vital voice of reason and a compass point that often played a critical role in keeping our community moving forward. Whether or not you ultimately agreed with his viewpoint, no single person did a better job of framing the argument and then pointing out the potential consequences of an ill-advised decision. His institutional knowledge of the happenings in Columbia was unmatched. His daily editorials often reminded us of our previous mishaps and the unique triumphs that made our city one of the best places to live in America.

Over the course of five decades, Han wrote more than 18,000 editorials (most likely a world record.) For a time, he also owned local radio station KFRU. From these powerful platforms, he not only served as a voice of reason but also as Columbia’s chief watchdog. From this bully pulpit, he gently influenced public policy, but more importantly, he simply paid attention to what was happening in every corner of our community. Public officials knew that they were on a relatively short leash as long as Hank Waters was at the helm. Perhaps

this is the part of his legacy that I miss most. With few exceptions, it doesn’t seem like anyone is paying attention to what happens in City Hall, the County Commission chambers or the Columbia Board of Education.

Hank made it his habit to endorse candidates for local office. Though many often joked that his endorsement might be the “kiss of death” in an election cycle, local candidates lobbied hard to win his approval. Hank gave a courtesy interview to all who fied for public office and he screened each candidate with fairness and the appropriate amount of scrutiny. Whether these endorsements had any real effect on the outcome of an election, they were coveted by the candidates and served as a meaningful litmus test for his thousands of daily readers. I was blessed to receive his endorsement on at least two occasions.

Hank was a champion for transparency. If he were alive today, my guess is that he would have opined about the tendency of Columbia and Boone County’s elected officials to do business behind closed doors. Though it’s impossible to know for certain, he might have also been disappointed by the manner in which city and county leaders squandered the more than $60 million in American Rescue Plan (ARPA) dollars allocated to Columbia and Boone County. The secrecy of the process and the lack of accountability associated with how those funds were spent would have likely been the source of several editorials.

There’s an excellent chance that Hank would have been concerned by the slumping achievement in Columbia Public Schools and would have likely been able to offer sage advice on how to reverse the tide. The same is true for the homelessness crisis in our city. One of Hank’s strong suits was building bridges between disparate interests. I believe Hank would have challenged local leaders and the throngs of social service agencies in our

BY FRED PARRY

community to streamline their funding and efforts toward workable solutions. He likely would have questioned the millions of dollars spent each year on this crisis and pondered the reasons why these dollars have had such a minimal impact. No doubt his heart would have been in the right place and the multitude of do-gooders in our community would have heeded his advice.

I realize that I’m treading on dangerous ground when trying to predict what the venerable HJW III would have surmised from today’s current events. There is, however, one thing I can say with a reasonable degree of certainty. He would surely be greatly disappointed by what the Gannett newspaper chain has done to what was once considered one of America’s best community newspapers. Hank was savvy enough to foretell the overall decline of the newspaper industry, but my guess is that he would have an unkind opinion about the gutting of the Columbia Daily Tribune. I’m glad he wasn’t around to see it. Longing for the good ol’ days won’t bring Hank Waters back. However, my hope is that we, as a community, might remember why it’s important to pay attention to current affair and the need to more regularly scrutinize the actions of public officials who have been entrusted to lead our community into the future with a vision for prosperity and an above average quality of life. Until that happens, we can only expect to see a further decline in the once-great city we call home.

Fred Parry Founder & Publisher Emeritus fred@insidecolumbia.net

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