CLASSIC COMFORT RELAXED FASHION TRENDS
L AKE LIVING
MORE PEOPLE ARE CALLING THE LAKE HOME
CONTROLLED CHAOS
TO THE BEAT
DUO PLAYS ON VINTAGE GUITARS
+
Poured art an artistic process
Wedded
SERVING UP SAVORY FLAVORS
A unique way to wed during COVID
REFUGE ON THE
JAN/FEB 2021
$4.95
01
0
74470 97602
8
L A K E N EWSO N L I N E .CO M
RECREATIONAL BOATING IS BOOMING AT THE LAKE, MARINE DEALERS DISCUSS MARKET GROWTH, TIPS FOR NEW BOAT OWNERS
Now more than ever it’s important to know who’s on your roof?
Ask about our standing seam metal roofing systems and custom sheet metal accessories
www.EliteRoofingandSiding.com 1029 Ozark Care Drive | Osage Beach, MO 65065 (573) 302-ROOF (7663) | Email me: info@eliteroofingandsiding.com
A Rated
Preferred Contractor
Associated Contractor
Scott’s Concrete Concreting The Entire Lake Area Since 1954
Thank you for voting us Best Concrete Company at the Lake! • If your outside concrete has not been sealed, the job is only 1/2 completed! • One phone call does it all! Estimates are always free of charge.
ur o y r o f w o n l l a C ! FREE Estimate
HE LAKE 2020 OF T
ial Community Choice Aw Offic ard The s
0 5 4 2 6 4 3 3 7 5 • 888-346-2450
www.scottsconcrete.biz
1
Voted # Concrete Business
Reader’s Choice Winner Best 14 of the Lake for Years 10 years!
IN THIS ISSUE
T CLASSIC COMFOR TRENDS RELAXED FASHION
CONTENTS
LIVIN G L AKE ARE CALLING THE LAKE HOME MORE PEOPLE
TO THE BEAT GUITARS
DUO PLAYS ON VINTAGE
+
CONTROLLED CHAOS
Poured art an artistic process
Wedded SERVING UP SAVORY FLAVORS
A unique way to wed during COVID
REFUGE ON THE
$4.95
JAN/FEB 2021
0
01
74470 97602
LAKENEWSONL
IS BOOMING AT THE RECREATIONAL BOATING DISCUSS MARKET LAKE, MARINE DEALERS NEW BOAT OWNERS GROWTH, TIPS FOR
ON THE COVER Boats on Lake of the Ozarks. AL GRIFFIN PHOTO.
8
I N E .CO M
20 AT HOME Do you have plans to undertake a remodeling project this winter? Local contractors and vendors talk to us about what’s popular, and give their best advice.
30 HEALTH WATCH With so many “healthy” options it can be hard to make the right decisions when grocery shopping. Read about what you should know before buying into all the hype.
32 ENTERTAINMENT Me + Jim have performed over 1,100 gigs playing familiar songs on their vintage guitars. Hear them perform at a local venue.
34 ARTIST PROFILE Color, viscosity, and technique produces a surprising work of art. This local artist has a knack for spontaneous creativity.
40 WEDDING STORY One couple embraced how COVID changed their wedding plans and said ‘I do’ onboard a boat.
36
FAS H I O N F I N D S
This locally-owned online boutique recently opened to rave reviews. We discuss trends and easy ways to update your wardrobe.
3 EDITOR’S NOTE It looks like people figured out Lake of the Ozarks was the place to visit in 2020. Our editor discusses what has been a busy year for many industries.
6 A GOLF DESTINATION It’s one of the most popular golf resorts in the world and we can see why. It’s the way golf should be at Bandon Dunes.
8 ASK THE EXPERT PGA Golf Pro Paul Leahy answers your golf questions. Whether you are always on the course or are new to the game, find out more to improve your score.
10 COVER STORY It’s been a great year for the boating industry. Record sales and busy gas docks proved that the Lake was the place to be in 2020. 2
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
45 WINTER EVENTS It’s the slower time of the year but there are a few key events happening at the start of 2021 you won’t want to miss.
46 PEOPLE IN PLACES Check out who we spotted at local fundraisers and events.
43 LOCAL F L AVO R There’s a new coffee shop that is serving some unique beverages. We recommend the lavender latte.
From the Editor
MAKING THE MOST
From the Editor OF THE
holiday season
LOZ IS THE PLACE TO BE
H W
aving e’ve grown up at aLake started new of thetradition Ozarks, Iin always our knew household it was a special for the kind of place. ItLike appears holidays. many the secret is out. families, we find it As we leaveup 2020 behind us and look hard to keep with our hectic schedules forward to a new year, there are so many and put together a Thanksgiving meal things to be grateful for — one thing in with all the trimmings. Between working, particular is how the Lake of the Ozarks traveling, grocery shopping, cooking, and fared during pandemic. cleaning up,athere’s not much time left Sure, sacrifices hadenjoy to be the made and to actually relax and moments businesses had to adapt among so much we have together — let alone do any Black uncertainty, but for the most part it this Friday shopping (if that even exists appears out ahead. People still year duewe tocame COVID). visited the Lake — record numbers No matter how in many times we —and many of them stuck around. would say to each other “we are not They spent money and businesses goingstill overboard this year,” we’d stayed open. Some are predicting weand will find ourselves in the same situation continue to see this growth for years to more stressed out than we intended. It come. doesn’t help that we have an array of With this being ouraround “boat show” issue dietary restrictions our dinner ittable was the perfect time to speak with — vegan, diabetic, and meat-eaters local marine dealers, realtors, home tried — don’t knock Tofurky until you’ve cpatires@lakemediaonline.com cpatires@gmail.com builders, and other business owners to to it…So a couple of years ago we decided get their take on 2020. Everything they cater most of our Thanksgiving meal. Why had to say positive and reinforced hadn’t wewas done this sooner? There are a few dishes we just have to have, like Mom’s what everyone is thinking — Lake the Ozarks is doing the place to be. and gives you time deviled eggs, but it sure takes theof pressure off of everything There were a lot of first-time boat buyers last year, so we talked to focus on what’s truly important during the holiday season. to the professionals to give you some tips to make your boat-buying Some people thrive on cooking and entertaining. I envy all those perfectly decorated experience better (and safer). homes andeven tablescapes! One of our features in this issue provides some great tips for The same rang true with homes. Secondithomeowners werecelebration able to hosting that holiday gathering, whether is a Friendsgiving or a more spend longer periods of time here and those homes that were on the tips will give you formal holiday dinner party. If you are one to go over-the-top, these market didn’t stay there for long. some time and money-saving ideas for your next get-together. We even took advantage the booming real estatethat market andparty, make sure to Between all of the hoursof preparing and executing holiday purchased a fixer-upper, and are also in the process of putting rental do a few of the activities featured in our cover story. Whether ayou are looking for some home up for sale. We are hoping the reward outweighs the risk and arefun and unique alone-time at the spa or a place to take the grandkids, there are some taking leap faith. thingsato do of inside when the weather turns cooler. As the winter season settles in, the Many homeowners decided homes to more comfortable quiet season at the Lake givesto usmake moretheir of a chance reset and do some of those things by making upgrades or adding on. Winter is a great time for on our “to-do” list. For me, that’s Xtreme Bar Bingo and icehome skating at Old Kinderhook improvement projects but you better not wait. Contractors are busier (what has become another holiday tradition). than ever with booked forwith months. Wishing youmost a season filled peace, gratitude, laughter and joy! There’s no doubt the new year will bring with it its fair share of challenges, but if we all keep that sense of community and support going I have a feeling we will continue to be a desirable destination for many. Wishing you many blessings, and a happy and healthy 2021! 6
LAKE LIFESTYLES // NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Joyce L. Miller
jmiller@lakesunonline.com
EDITOR Charis DIRECTOR Patires EDITORIAL Joyce L. Miller
REGIONAL AD LEADER jmiller@lakesunonline.com Taylor Goessmann
tgoessmann@localiq.com EDITOR 417-291-6522 Charis Patires
MARKETING CONSULTANTS REGIONAL AD LEADER
Stacy Johnson, Lori Hess, Bonnie Taylor Goessmann Schneider, Candace Williams tgoessmann@localiq.com 417-291-6522
PHOTOGRAPHERS George Denny, Al Griffin, MARKETING CONSULTANTS
Charis Patires,Lori AlanHess, Wohlgemut Stacy Johnson, Bonnie Schneider, Candace Williams
PRODUCTION
Barb PHOTOGRAPHERS Deitrick, Tracey Steinkraus George Denny, Al Griffin, DESIGN Charis Patires, Alan Wohlgemut Gannett Design Center
PRODUCTION
DISTRIBUTION Barb Deitrick, TraceyDIRECTOR Steinkraus Bob Moore DESIGN
Gannett Design Center
DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR Bob Moore
4427 Osage Beach Parkway North (Old School Commons) Osage Beach, MO 65065 573-346-2132 4427 Osage Beach Parkway Copyright 2020 by Lake North Media, a subsidiary of (Old School Commons) Gannett. All rights reserved. Lake Lifestyles magazine is published times annually distribution in OsagesixBeach, MOfor65065 Missouri and in the Midwest. Lake Lifestyles provides 573-346-2132
residents of and visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks with lifestyle and recreation features about the greater Lake of the2021 Ozarks effort been made Copyright by area. Lake While Media, a has subsidiary of to authenticate claimsLake andLifestyles guarantees offered Gannett. All rights all reserved. magazine advertisers this magazine, we distribution cannot assume isbypublished six intimes annually for in liability and for any products or services advertised herein. Missouri in the Midwest. Lake Lifestyles provides The publisher thethe right to ofaccept or reject any residents of andreserves visitors to Lake the Ozarks with advertising editorial features material.about The publisher will lifestyle and orrecreation the greater assume responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, Lake of thenoOzarks area. While effort has been made or other materials. All advertisements totranscripts authenticate all claims and guarantees offered by thein publisher are notweconsidered a work bycreated advertisers this magazine, cannot assume made for hire and the publisher the copyright liability any products or servicesretains advertised herein. to publisher all advertisements created the publisher the The reserves the right by to accept or rejectforany advertiser. or Theeditorial advertisements be reproduced advertising material.mayThenotpublisher will withoutnowritten permission the publisher. assume responsibility forofunsolicited manuscripts, transcripts or other materials. All advertisements created by the publisher are not considered a work made for hire and the publisher retains the copyright to all advertisements created by the publisher for the advertiser. The advertisements may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
@LakeLifestyles @lakelifestylesmagazine
@LakeLifestyles @lakelifestylesmagazine
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
3
Contact Us CHECK US OUT ONLINE
WITH US!
Looking for more Lake Lifestyles magazine features and the latest event information at Lake of the Ozarks? Go to www.lakenewsonline.com/lakelifestyles-magazine for full-length features and additional photos. Also connect with the Lake area’s number one news site to keep up with what’s going on in the area.
PICK UP A COPY!
Looking for an issue on newsstands? Here’s where you can find Lake Lifestyles magazine. Hy-Vee, Osage Beach Hy-Vee Gas, Osage Beach Woods, Lake Ozark G-2-M, Laurie Woodrows, Laurie CVS, Lake Ozark Dierbergs, Osage Beach Lake Oasis, Camdenton Lake Sun, Osage Beach
CLASSIC COMFORT RELAXED FASHION
TRENDS
L AKE LIVI NG
MORE PEOPLE ARE CALLING
THE LAKE HOME
ADVERTISING Advertise in the Lake area’s number one lifestyle magazine—Lake Lifestyles! Reach thousands with distribution at visitor centers and venues throughout Missouri with subscribers all across the United States. Call 573-317-8142 for more information.
TO THE BEAT
DUO PLAYS ON VINTAGE
CONTROLLED CHAOS
GUITARS
+
Poured art an artistic process
Wedded A unique way to wed during COVID
SERVING UP SAVORY FLAVORS
REFUGE JAN/FEB 20 21
$4.95
01
0
74470 97602
LAKENEWSO
8
N L I N E .CO M
ON THE
RECREATIONAL BOATING IS BOOMIN G AT THE LAKE, MARINE DEALERS DISCUS S MARKET GROWTH, TIPS FOR NEW BOAT OWNERS
CALL 573-346-2132 FOR MORE LOCATIONS!
Meet the team
BACKED BY DATA. POWERED BY INTELLIGENCE.
Candace Williams
CWilliams5@localiq.com I’m a proud mom to a beautiful daughter and maw-maw of two handsome grandsons. I enjoy spending family time and any down time available I enjoy drawing, painting, refurbishing furniture and motorcycle rides with my boyfriend. My personal goal is to live a happy, healthy, and successful life.
Get to know your local media consultants. The LOCALiQ team intuitively understands the Lake of the Ozarks market and how to effectively reach both locals and visitors to this beautiful destination. Now backed by the power of the USA Today Network, our team of marketing consultants can provide you the data and insights to effectively and efficiently reach your target customer. Give them a call today to discuss your marketing goals and the agency services LOCALiQ can offer across the print and digital space. Services included buy not limited to Newspaper & Niche Publication Advertising, Direct Mail, E-Mail Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Search Marketing, Targeted Display & Website Design.
Bonnie Schneider
BSchneider@localiq.com I enjoy gardening, boating and life at the Lake of the Ozarks. My personal goal is to spend more time with family and friends.
573-346-2132 4
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
Lori Hess
LHess@localiq.com Dog Lover and Yoga Enthusiast. My goal is to help my customers transition into the digital age of marketing and advertising and create a brand that reflects their true business identity.
Stacy Johnson
SJohnson2@localiq.com I played college softball and originally wanted to coach college softball. I try to read one new book a month. I am happy to call Lake of the Ozarks home and love being a part of a great community. I hope to become even more involved.
2021
SAVE THE DATE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021
MARGARITAVILLE LAKE RESORT
Doors Open at 5:30 g n i Featur Live & Silent Auctions e l y K J D Cash Bar
For tickets & sponsorships call: Sara Veile, Winterfest Chair
636-346-5086
Join our event on Facebook LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
5
Golf
GOLF AS IT WAS
MEANT TO BE
T
he Bandon Dunes Golf Resort has coined the phrase “golf as it was meant to be.” Located on the Pacific Coast, that slogan fits as players can immerse in the spirit of Scotland’s ancient links. The resort is just outside the small town of Bandon, Oregon and has 90 championship golf holes situated on miles of the Pacific Coast shoreline. I recently spent four glorious days attending the 2020 PGA Magazine Golf Professional of the Year Conference and was fortunate enough to play three of the five championship courses. We stayed in the Grove Cottages that accommodated four guests comfortably with individual rooms, bathrooms and a large parlor with full amenities and a fireplace. The property has several different lodging accommodations available ranging from two bedroom, standard guest rooms featuring two queen beds, single rooms with views of the Dunes of the
6
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
STORY AND PHOTOS BY PAUL LEAHY
Pacific Ocean, rooms with views of the course and the cottages where we stayed. Bandon’s vision started with one man’s dream of building a destination course that people would flock to, where traditional golf was the focus, and everyone would walk and experience golf as it was decades ago. Mike Keiser bought the property and the locals thought he was throwing his money to the wind when he said he was building a golf course. Situated 2.5 hours from the closest commercial airport in Eugene they thought “who in their right mind is going to play?” He proved them all wrong, as Bandon is now recognized as one of the premiere golf destinations in the word. The original course at Bandon Dunes opened to rave reviews in 1999. Over the next 20 years Pacific Dunes opened in 2001, Bandon Trails in 2005, Old McDonald in 2010 and in June 2020 Sheep Ranch opened to complete the 90 holes. Over these 20 years, five different lodging facilities were opened with another under construction currently. A 13-hole par-3
course opened surrounded by the 50 acre practice facility featuring two full practice ranges, one allowing you to hit balls from the North and the other from the South, depending on the wind. A 100,000 square foot 36-hole putting course called the Punch Bowl was also added. I was fortunate to attend the conference and experience this special place first-hand with other golf professionals from around the country. I played Sheep Ranch first and was amazed at how beautiful the landscape was. On the fourth hole my playing partner, Bill, turned to me and said “I have played all of the other courses and if the rest of the course is this good it’s now my favorite.” High praise after a few holes and it certainly did not disappoint. We lucked out with partly sunny conditions, low 60 temperatures and only 10 to 15 mile winds. For November we were told this was a great weather day. Four birdies on the back nine made me an instant fan and I couldn’t wait for the next two days. Day two found me at Pacific Dunes, the
sister course of Bandon Dunes and one of two courses that were played during the 2020 US Amateur. The weatherman was not as kind however, as we started around noon and were faced with 40-mile-anhour winds consistently with gusts up to 60. The first 10 holes were partly cloudy but as we made the corner to head toward home the rain began. Five of the next eight holes were played in a downpour with rain pelting us from all sides. We got to have the full Bandon experience that day — plenty of rain and wind. Most would ask “why on earth would you play?” “It is Bandon” is all you can say. I met some guys at the halfway house, and they said it was worse that morning and we lucked out, as they were on their second 18 of the day. Wet and tired I got to use the in-room shoe heaters provided to dry out my gear for the next day. Pacific Dunes was a different course than Sheep Ranch which provided a much different experience. Bunkering, longer
approaches to greens, and, of course, the elements made it a considerable challenge. The spectacular views of the Pacific were still the same and the experience of walking alongside our caddy was still worth it. Bandon Dunes was my final course and the weatherman cooperated again. The course that hosted the final match in this year’s amateur awaited us. A light breeze of 10 to 15 mph greeted us under partly cloudy skies. The course that gets most of the recognition did not disappoint. Undulating fairways, well bunkered green complexes and extraordinary views awaited us for our four hour and 20 minute walk around the links. Every round accompanied by one of the 300
caddies on property just enhanced the experience at each course. Each caddie had their own stories and favorite courses and made the experience all the better. One caddy had played college basketball, another college baseball, but all had a love of the game, found their way to the great northwest and fell in love with the area and Bandon. One had been looping since 2004 and wouldn’t want to do anything else. Thankfully I was able to hit some quality shots, make a couple of birdies and shoot the best round of the week — a respectable 75. Bandon is just a special place. If you love golf, want to experience spectacular views at a one-of-a-kind property then you need to plan a trip. One of the sponsors for the event from Premier Golf who books golf packages all over the world said she is booking golf trips for 2022 since 2021 at Bandon is sold out. If you’re thinking of a trip to Bandon you better start planning it today! I had the good fortune to make some great new friendships and to renew old ones. I learned more talking with the other attendees over dinner, in our cottages, and our time on the courses than I did in the formal meetings we attended. I will cherish this experience and I hope to take back with me ideas and best practices that can enhance the golf experience at Lake of the Ozarks for years to come.
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
7
Golf Tips
ASK THE EXPERT IS A RANGE LESSON OR A PLAYING LESSON BEST FOR MY GAME? Jim C., Camdenton This is a great question and the answer depends on your game. If you are just learning the game the range is probably the best place to start. Work on your fundamentals, get comfortable with making solid contact consistently, and then try to take your game to the course. If you have been playing for some time and are looking to improve your scoring, then a playing lesson may be exactly what is needed. A playing lesson lets a golf professional see where you are losing strokes to better understand how to help you improve. A playing lesson highlights your flaws as there is no consequence to hitting a poor shot on the range. A great format to use during your playing lesson or when working on your game individually is called the two-ball drill. Hit two shots off the tee and select the best one. Hit two second shots and select the best one, and so on. The idea is to see how well you could score if you actually focused properly on each shot. You will be amazed how well you can score doing this and it will breed confidence and give you something to focus on the next time you play only one ball. Either way lessons are a great way to build confidence and enjoy the game more.
8
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
SHOULD I FOCUS MORE ON HOW MY SWING LOOKS OR HOW IT WORKS? Evan H., Lake Ozark If you’re looking for style points, most definitely focus on how you look swinging the club. If you are looking to improve your score, concentrate and focus on how it works. Some of the best players in the world have very different looking swings. Look at Jim Furyk, Bubba Watson, and even Dustin Johnson, and you would not say they were the picture you envision what a golf swing should look like. All have had tremendous success but I don’t see many trying to emulate their technique. We all have individual swing characteristics based on our instincts, physiologies and physical abilities. The best players develop the ability to put the ball on the clubface with accuracy and consistency. Focus on this and not how it may look to others, and you will find yourself having greater success shooting low scores.
Paul Leahy is a PGA Golf Professional and the Director of Golf at The Oaks at Margaritaville Lake Resort.
BY PAUL LEAHY
WILL SINGLE RIDER CARTS EVER BECOME THE NORM EVEN AFTER THE CONCERNS OF COVID 19 SUBSIDES? Hank E., Russellville The use of single carts has certainly taken on a new meaning in 2020 with social distancing mandates and concerns. From a players standpoint the benefits of having your own cart are numerous. Speed of play, convenience, ability to play your own music, never having to go to another’s ball are just a few. Golfers are really enjoying being able to have their own cart. What will prevent this from becoming the norm is obvious to most. Wear and tear on the course, cost for additional gas or electricity to run the carts, and probably the biggest reason is availability. Most facilities if not all build their storage facility for the amount of the carts they will need to operate. For a normal 18 hole facility that would be between 72 and 75 carts to accommodate 144 players. If single rider carts become the norm, golf facilities could only accommodate half the number of players on the course at one time, severely limiting the revenue that can be generated. Adding additional carts to their fleet is costly and storage will be an issue. For these reasons it will be extremely difficult for the majority of golf courses to operate allowing individuals the option to take their own cart without passing the cost on to the consumer.
FORMULA BOATS OF MISSOURI 4810 Formula Dr. • Osage Beach, MO 65065 • 573-302-8000
www.FormulaBoatsMO.com
Cover Story
Booming Business
The
of
B O AT I N G
N
ow more than ever, Lake of the Ozarks is a hotspot for recreational boaters. A record number of boats were sold last season, many to first-time buyers. Marine dealers discuss how the industry faired in 2020, new boat owners share their stories, and boaters who have moved to Lake of the Ozarks explain why they are here to stay. Also get expert advice on how you can stay safe on the water all year long.
DAN FIELD PHOTO
10
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
PHOTO PROVIDED
Boat sales surpass expectations Lake marine dealers rank among the best in the industry STORY BY DAN FIELD
I
n adversity there is opportunity. The effects of COVID-19 have dominated our lives for the last nine months. Daily, the news media bombards us with updates and predictions about the coronavirus. But we at Lake of the Ozarks have seen the other side of doom and gloom. Retail sales, real estate sales and especially boat sales have surpassed expectations as the populace – much of it out-state or out-of-state — has seen our lake as a paradise in all of the drama and negative news. That can be seen at several Lake-area marine dealers who have won accolades for both top sales or top customer service. And that’s high honors for not only local accomplishments but recognition from within their own industry. “The Lake has changed, but one thing that’s consistent is that we love gathering as many family members as we can and getting everyone together on the water,” Kyle Kelly of Kelly’s Port explained. “We’ve seen both of our great partners — Regal and Bennington — continue to push the envelope on what a boat can do whether it’s large pontoons
(25-foot or 30-foot with twin motors), redefining certain models (the new 36-foot Regal cruiser/ bowrider), or building a whole new market like the Regal 38 SAV.” Kelly’s Port has been honored as the No. 1 dealer in customer satisfaction and best repair service, and that’s among the reasons people are flocking to the Lake to buy their boats – and then play here or live here. “Our achievement was earned by the accolades of our clients,” Kelly explained. “They’re sent a survey on every boat purchase where they rank the dealership, and they ranked us highest in the world. We’re in a unique position that we’re the only Top Ten in retail sales to ever achieve this award.” The outlook is much the same at Big Thunder Marine with locations in Lake Ozark and Palm Beach Gardens in Florida. “We are always working on giving a better overall customer experience in every department of our company,” General Manager Jeremy Anderson says. “From sales and service, our marina, fuel LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
11
Boat owners Jason, Julie, Nic, Ben and Zack (in front) on board their wakesurfing boat. PROVIDED PHOTO
dock, and rental boats we are upgrading our facilities and taking out a hill to create more parking at Glencove to help with marina/rentals/gas dock. We are laser focused on our service departments for 2021 to be sure they can keep up with the growth we’ve had, and will continue to have in the future. Our goal isn’t to be just the biggest, it’s to be the best.” Anderson says Big Thunder is the No. 1 dealer at the Lake in volume of new and used boats because of a couple different reasons. Nobody offers such a diverse selection — from surf boats to powerboats to center consoles to tritoons. Big Thunder is also a newer company that embraced technology early which has helped them move with the times. “We have pivoted business models so many times this year with COVID and shutdowns and we really try to stay ahead of everyone else,” he said. The biggest reason for the company’s success is it believes in a better experience. “When you buy a boat from Big Thunder you become a member of our family. We don’t say ‘thank you for your business’ we say ‘welcome to the family,’” Anderson said. The Big Thunder staff tries to work with clients to find the right boat for them 12
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
by offering multiple types of boats and brands to fit for them and their family. “Many times we’ve had people come in thinking they wanted one type of boat and they ended up thanking us for showing them the right boat — for them,” he said.
OPPORTUNITY Seizing opportunity from of the jaws of adversity is key to success. “We’re always keeping our eyes open for opportunities to grow based on what makes sense for the company. That might be an opportunity to expand our service department by adding a body work and gel coat shop,” Russ Martin, co-owner of Premier 54 Motor Sports, said. “The acquisition of Advantage Marine last summer helped us expand the Chaparral brand on the west side of the Lake and take on the Cypress Cay brand of pontoons.” Premier 54 has become the No. 1 Chaparral dealer and while that’s a nice plaque on the wall, it’s more than that, Martin explains. “We recognize that this world is changing so we constantly evaluate ourselves, how we’re doing business and how we’re reaching our customers to make sure we’re keeping up,” he said. “We never
want to get comfortable or be satisfied with being where we are. The key is to always be better.” MarineMax, the nation’s No. 1 boat dealer, finds that customers want more than just a cool boat to drive. Again, the company sees an opportunity. “Our customers are asking us to ‘teach me, service me, show me how to have fun,’” MarineMax Lake of the Ozarks General Manager Dale Law says. “To do this, we will continue to offer first class facilities, premium brands, exceptional service after the sale, educational classes and organized boating events. We will utilize the latest technology to communicate with our customers and make purchasing a boat easy and pleasurable.” Law says the company’s success is rooted in its mission statement: To provide the world’s best pleasure boating experience by consistently exceeding the greatest expectations of our customers, our team members, and our shareholders. To be able to provide the best customer service experience is a must.
WHAT’S AHEAD The future is an unknown, especially with COVID still knocking at our doors
and with a change in the administration. But top dealers make qualified decisions based on experience and good customer relationships. “We believe that all boaters are looking for a way to escape the stresses of life and create memories with family and friends,” MarineMax’s Law says. “Boat buyers are looking for an experience, not just fiberglass.” “We believe that many boat buyers aspire to purchase the premium brands we offer. These range in size from 13 feet to 65 feet. Today’s buyers are looking for comfort, advanced technology and entertaining spaces. And our yacht buyers are very interested in European design.” Fiberglass seems to be making a comeback at Premier 54 over the last couple years. The company’s line of multipurpose surf boats has become extremely popular because they’re not just used for water sports. Big Thunder sees the same trend as customers are gravitating toward boats with outboard motors for year-round use
and efficiency. And, they want big center console boats that hold a lot of people. Customers are even trading in their cruisers for the center consoles. Surf boats that everyone in the family can surf behind are becoming more popular as well. “We saw a big sense of family this year and sold a lot of surf boats to first-time boat owners,” Anderson said. “It’s something mom, dad and the kids can all do, and with Mastercraft Gen 2 Surf System you can customize your wake for what you like and how you like to ride. We’re also the Mastercraft dealer for the Kansas City market now.” While boat sales, service and gas sales have done well this past season, the challenge ahead for most dealers is inventory. “The key to our success for 2021 will be managing the looming inventory crisis,” Premier 54’s Martin said. “The Chaparral factory is operating at full capacity trying to keep up with the current demand, but they’re also at the mercy of our small parts vendors. With this in mind, we’ll be looking for opportunities to find
pre-owned boats and brokerages in order to keep product on our lots.” Kyle Kelly says Kelly’s Port is fortunate to team up with two builders that will always be ahead of the curve and share the same commitment to customer service. Kelly’s Port is again fortunate, Kelly said, to offer boats of all sizes and pricing with its large and comprehensive brokerage services. He says preowned boats are an important part of their business. “Our team understands that we are only as good as our last oil change or gallon of gasoline we pump, so they’ve earned that distinction by hard work, sweat and a general care for our clients every hour of every day. Ryan (his brother) and I couldn’t be more proud of the team we work with. They’re the true backbone of Kelly’s Port.” For all dealers, boating has proven to be a great way for families to social distance and still make memories. People are resilient and will find ways to overcome challenges — especially if it involves boating at the Lake of the Ozarks.
We Sell Lifts For Everything From PWCs To Cruisers!
Now Offering
Shallow water liftS www.econolift.com 573-346-7161 Only the highest quality materials. Totally enclosed polyethylene tanks for stability. Durable, completely galvanized metal parts. Experienced employee service team, no contractors.
From Highway 5, Take Pier 31 Exit Then Right On Old Route 5 Trusted By Lake Of The Ozarks Boat Owners For More Than 30 Years! LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
13
Omaha resident Raymond Perry II grew up boating on the Missouri River. Now the family can be found in their 30-foot Carver on Lake of the Ozarks.
Nothing is bad when you are on the Lake From one waterway to another, these boat owners are staying put at Lake of the Ozarks
L
akes, rivers, oceans…the options of where to launch the boat are many. Each has its own appeal and unique qualities. But what is it about the Lake of the Ozarks that keeps bringing boaters back? What makes our Lake different from the rest? Omaha resident Raymond Perry II grew up boating on the Missouri River. “We are life-long visitors to the Lake and purchased a place two years ago for the family,” Perry said. “We are avid boaters and have experienced the changes at the Lake, and we left the problems of Missouri River flooding behind.” Mike Walters grew up in Minnesota and spent the majority of his childhood on the Mississippi River. “My family had a cruiser, a house- boat, a cruiser, and then moved to a cabin on Gunflint Lake in northern Minnesota,” Walters said. The family then came back to the Mississippi, and Mike himself owned a 26-foot Sea Ray Sundancer and a 30-foot Carver. After much consideration, he shipped the Carver to the Lake of the Ozarks last year. “The Mississippi was beautiful and had beaches you could pull up to,” Walters explained. “There were few restaurants along the waterway. You can take trips up and down the river, through the locks, and up the St. Croix River. Most of the appeal there was our family and friends.” 14
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
STORY BY MARIE KROLIKOWSKI
Walters had always heard that Lake of the Ozarks was overcrowded and busy. Five years ago, a friend of his purchased a cabin on the “quiet side of the Lake.” He started spending time there and was sold. “I was driving eight hours every other weekend to go to Minnesota from Kansas City for boating, and that was getting old,” Walters added. “I was spending time at my friends cabin and I saw the beauty of the Lake. It wasn’t overly busy and I started to make friends. We did night cruises, went to restaurants, visited other friends on the Lake and cruised to see the fireworks.” Upon the recommendation from his friend, Walters made the decision two years ago to purchase a place of his own. A shorter drive, the fact that his family in Minnesota wasn’t boating as much, and his love for the Lake sealed the deal for him. “LOTO is a combination of life on the lake and life on the river,” Mike said. “I miss the beaches and seeing commercial barges. But with lake life, you have your own dock, swimming, tubing, visiting friends and a bed to crash on.” Walters went on to explain that the people at the Lake are friendly, and his cabin community is like a resort where everyone has a good time. Patronizing different restaurants and night boating are things he couldn’t do on the river. Walters sold his cruiser and purchased a bow rider. His advice to others thinking of making the move is from his personal
experience. First, one needs to determine their needs. When it comes to a boat, do you fish, sail, have kids who want to tube? Do you want a dock or will you rent a slip at a marina? Walters suggests you know your skill level and get help where needed. Above all, make friends and generate those family memories that will last for a lifetime. In 2011, Ray and Sharon Boyd sold their Iowa lake home of 40 plus years and purchased at Lake of the Ozarks. They left East Lake in Okoboji and never looked back. The Boyd’s used to boat the Missouri River in Nebraska. They have experienced the northern part of the river which is a very beautiful area to boat and camp, as well as the southern part of the river. In Iowa, they boated all six lakes in the Okoboji area. Sharon explained that they loved boating there, but now there are too many boats, and most are too large for those lakes. Highlighting the differences between there and the Lake of the Ozarks, it’s easy to see why LOTO has become their preference. “The real estate taxes are cheaper than Okoboji and there’s more miles of water to explore,” Sharon explained. “There’s more to do at the Lake, and there’s a laid-back atmosphere and friendly people. It’s a longer drive, but it’s well worth it.” Lake of the Ozarks is much larger than any of the lakes the Boyds previously owned on or boated. The pros include
In 2011, Ray and Sharon Boyd sold their Iowa lake home of 40 plus years and purchased at Lake of the Ozarks. Boating with friends and family is how they spend a majority of their time. PROVIDED PHOTOS
plenty of places to cruise to, a longer boating season, and the ability to leave your boat in the water year-round. No place is without its faults, and Sharon talked about those. The negatives include the big boat traffic on holidays and weekends, and not enough places with sand beaches or things for the kids to do. The Boyd’s first boat was a 14- footer with an outboard. Five boats later, they now own a 25-foot tritoon with a 200 horsepower outboard. The advantage, Sharon explained, is that they can now boat year-round. “Do your homework before buying a boat,” Sharon advised. “Your purchase will depend on what part of the Lake you want to boat, what kind of boating you want to do, if you want to boat year-round and how much maintenance and upkeep you’re willing to do.” Sharon added that other considerations include whether or not watersports are important to you. “Boating at LOTO with family and friends equals fun and a lifetime of memories,” she said. I personally have experienced many different boating venues. My boating experiences began when I was two months old, the result of being born to parents who were avid boaters. Right after tying the knot, my husband and I continued the family tradition of boat ownership, and we have owned a boat ever since. Some of the places I have boated include the Mississippi River, the Illinois River, the Chain of Lakes in both Illinois and Wisconsin, Lake Shelbyville, Kentucky Lake, and Lake Michigan. But for the past 26 years, our best boating experiences were from the Lake of the Ozarks. In my opinion, nothing compares to all the amenities of the Lake. This past April, we decided to take the plunge and purchase our long-desired Lake home. For us, the Lake far outweighs any other options we’ve experienced. Weighing factors in our decision on where to purchase included the size and depth of the lake, the duration of boating weather, things to do both on and off the water, and whether or not we could consider the location an eventual permanent residence. Number one on my husbands list: what kind of dock could we have? The size of the Lake and the vast number of dining options along the way was a selling point for us. Anchoring and swimming in different coves, and the uniqueness of each Lake area are things that must be experienced. And mostly, the friendly people
we come across and the relaxing atmosphere tells us this is where we belong. On the flip side, the Lake does get busy and choppy on the weekends. For us, that just means more time spent on the dock, swimming, cooking out, and enjoying a cocktail or two. This past summer, the Lake has given us memories to last a lifetime. From sunset cruises to entertaining friends, floating for hours or visiting a favorite dining spot, the opportunities for fun have been endless. From talking to others who spend their time at LOTO I can recall one common message — nothing is bad when you’re on the Lake.
Lifting Your Dreams... From Canoes to Cruisers!
(573) 348-5073
Locations in Osage Beach & Camdenton
www. SummersetBoatLifts.com LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
15
The ins and outs of new boat ownership 2020 saw increased sales of both new and pre-owned boats, with many first-time boat owners. STORY BY CHARIS PATIRES
T
he boating industry surged, not only on Lake of the Ozarks, but nation-wide last year. Families looked for a safe way to social distance, spend time together and enjoy the outdoors. With schools, summer camps, sports leagues and other activities shut down because of the pandemic, families had more time to spend at the Lake. That means there are more first-time boat owners out there who may not be as familiar with operating a vessel as they should be. According to Greg Riley, a licensed Coast Guard Captain who has been teaching boating lessons for more than 25 years, owners should know how to safely operate their boat, understand water safety, be knowledgeable of Missouri boating laws, and be aware of local knowledge including speed limits, marked and unmarked shallow water areas, buoy markers, contact numbers for the water patrol and tow boat assistance. They should also know how to encounter a wake and be responsible for the wake they create, he said. While some marine dealers might give a short tutorial before handing over the keys, others take more time to make sure that each new boat owner is comfortable behind the helm. Riley teaches a Women on the Water course at MarineMax. MarineMax offers a full range of services to include boating education,
16
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
RIGHT AND ABOVE: Ryan and Winter Miller in their “new-to-them” boat. Their dog Butters enjoys boating with them as well. PROVIDED PHOTOS
service, fuel dock, storage, parts, gear center, and all things boating. A professional delivery service to all new boat owners ensures that everyone in the family can safely and comfortably operate their boat. They also offer organized boating events that create opportunities to explore new waters, form new friendships, and boat in the safety of a group. Other available resources with lots of good information include funlake.com, Lake Locator app, lakeozarkboatdealers. com, and lotocaptain.com.
MarineMax offers an introductory Women on Water class that covers basic boating tips and focuses on teaching ladies how to safely drive and dock a boat. Pictured, instructor Greg Riley with Women on the Water participants. PROVIDED PHOTO
“Lake of the Ozarks offers some of the best boating in the nation. Boaters love the diversity from Bagnell Dam to Truman Dam, the gorgeous landscapes, the abundance of coves to explore, the social entertainment provided by numerous waterfront establishments, quality fishing, watersports, and the many organized Lake area events and activities,” Riley said. “As a weekend destination, Lake traffic is high Friday through Sunday and boaters need to pay close attention to other boaters. As a large lake, there is a lot of areas to learn and become familiar with.” Ryan Miller learned first-hand how challenging driving a boat on Lake of the Ozarks can be. Ryan and his wife, Winter, moved to Lake of the Ozarks in March 2020, and bought their first-ever boat on Facebook Marketplace. “Before buying this boat neither of us had any boating experience,” Ryan said. “I have been in a boat before but nothing more than taking the wheel to hold a boat in place.” After purchasing the 2004 Sea Ray 270 Sundeck Ryan admits they learned how to operate it by “trial and error.” “Thankfully the gentleman who we purchased the boat from was very patient and kind. He took us out on the boat, and even let me drive while he was teaching me the very basics of boating on LOTO,” Ryan said. “We’ve met some great friends here. They all have shared their boating knowledge as well. I still am interested in taking a boating class, as does my wife. I believe that would be the best advice to give any new boater.” “One thing to keep in mind for a firsttime boat buyer is to set a budget on what you want to spend, and then throw that number away and triple it,” Ryan said. Initially the couple wanted to spend $5,000-$10,000 on a 19-foot runabout but were quickly talked out of making that decision from their neighbors. The advice was to go bigger. They found their boat with 500 hours on it for $21,000 but with titling, the cost of a boat lift to handle the weight and other fees their budget grew to $30,000.
STAYING SAFE ON LAKE OF THE OZARKS MISSOURI BOATING LAWS
1.
Life jackets must be accessible for every person on board a watercraft. Children under the age of seven must wear a life jacket at all times while on board a watercraft. All persons must wear a life jacket when on a PWC.
2.
Navigation lights are required on all boats underway between sunset and sunrise.
3. 4.
Proper ventilation is required of every vessel.
Fire extinguishers are required equipment on all motorized watercraft carrying or using flammable or toxic fluid such as gasoline or propane.
5.
Registration is required of all motorized watercraft regardless of horsepower; all sailboats 12 feet and over in length are required to be registered.
6.
The operator of any boat being used for towing a person on water skis, inner tube or similar device must have another person aboard the vessel, seated in a position so as to observe the progress of the person or persons being towed unless the vessel is equipped with a ski mirror approved by the Missouri State Water Patrol, mounted so that the progress of the skier can be observed by the operator. An orange or red skier down flag must be displayed any time people are in the water. PWCs and moored or anchored boats are exempt from displaying the flag.
7.
Riding on the bow, gunwales, railing, top of seat back and decking over the back of a motorboat is prohibited.
8.
Anyone born after 1/1/1984, who wants to operate a vessel on the lakes of Missouri, must have successfully completed a certified boating safety course and carry proof of successful completion.
9.
The minimum age for operating any watercraft in the State of Missouri is 14 years.
10.
All marker buoys, such as No Wake buoys, apply to all motorized vessels, including all personal watercraft.
11.
Operating a boat while intoxicated is a state offense, subject to a $5,000 fine and 1-5 years in jail, for a felony conviction.
12.
It is illegal to operate a boat or PWC at speeds greater than “idle speed” within 100 feet of a dock, an occupied, anchored vessel, or a buoyed restricted area.
13.
The speed limit at night is 30 mph. Night speed limits begin ½ hour after sunset and continue through 1 hour before sunrise. Boating handbooks are available at any Missouri Department of Revenue License Bureau. — Provided by Greg Riley
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
17
10 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BOAT SAFE THIS WINTER
Y
ou know how boats are. Little problems compound quickly into big ones. So, visit your boat this winter. You can’t catch a problem if you don’t notice it early. If Boat.U.S. had to give only one piece of advice this winter, it’s this: Visit your boat. Snow, ice, wind, rain, and damp air can take their toll on both of you. If guilt is a good motivator, think of it this way: You can sit by a warm fire drinking hot cocoa while winter rages, but your boat has to be outside, enduring winter’s worst, so make some time to visit. Here are some tips from the BoatU.S. Marine Insurance claim files that can help prevent damage to your boat over winter. • If your boat’s in the water, take a walk around it at the dock. Are there any changes in the waterline? If so, check the bilge for water. If you find any, locate the source. It might be a leaking thru-hull or stuffing box, or be coming from the deck through a hatch or portlight. • Verify that all seacocks are closed, except for the cockpit. Also check that leaves don’t clog the cockpit scuppers, which could fill the cockpit and force drains underwater, back-flooding the boat. • Check your docklines for security and chafe. Winter storms can put a lot of strain on docklines so make sure you use a good chafeguard, and make sure the boat is tied so it can‘t get caught under the dock during tide changes. • Check the operation of the bilge pump. It should work even if the battery switch is off. Boat U.S. insurance records indicate that the majority of boat sinking’s happen while the boat is tied to the dock – something that can often be avoided if the bilge pump is operational. Manually turn on the switch to verify the pump comes on. • Inspect the shore power cord for damage and make sure the battery charger is operating. Verify the battery electrolyte hasn’t evaporated and add some if needed. If you spot corrosion on battery
18
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
PHOTO PROVIDED
terminals, clean it off now. • Look for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks. You don’t want your bilge pump to spew oil into the water; in addition to polluting the environment, you could be in for a big fine. • If you haven’t already removed expensive electronics, now’s the time. Boatyards are like ghost towns in the winter, and can be easy pickings for thieves. • Make sure the boat’s well ventilated. Air circulation prevents mold and mildew from forming down below and keeps the boat smelling fresh. Treat any mold that you find now, before it gets worse. • If your boat is stored ashore, check
that jackstands haven’t shifted or sunk into the ground, and are chained together under the boat. Tell the boatyard if something doesn’t look right. • Make sure that water isn’t pooling on deck or in the cockpit. Nothing good ever comes from standing water inside or outside a boat; water can damage the gelcoat and cause stains. This article was reprinted with permission from BoatU.S. Magazine, flagship publication of the membership organization Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS). For more expert articles and videos to make your boating, sailing, or fishing better, visit Boatus.com
ROCK ISLAND VILLAGE
Make us your home!
Rock Island Village is inviting seniors to enjoy the security and safety of our caring, fun Community.
This is the perfect time to enjoy the carefree and health-conscience environment that RIV provides.
We shop for you, transport you safely to your appointments, serve up delicious meals and maintain a safe environment full of activities and fellowship. RIV sets the standard for protection with attention to hygienic detail that is unmatched. Our protocols have kept our community safe and provide the very best for you or your loved one. Join us today for a virtual tour or a Zoom conference about your needs. RIV stands ready to invite you to our safe, enjoyable community.
Call us today for a tour...
(573) 557-9545
comfortable. I’m well cared for and feel safe. ~ Cherie M.
“ My mother-in-law has been very happy at Rock Island
Village. The food is good and there are activities every day. The staff check in on her several times a day and it is a relief knowing she is safe and well cared for. ~ David W.
“
New residents
“ Rock Island Village is excellent. It’s homey and
“
Accepting
Our Residents and Families Tell the Rock Island Story Best
Only ONE 2-bedroom Apartments Left! All Asssisted Living Amenities including: Meals, Laundry, Transportation and the very best in Entertainment and Activities Taking Reservations NOW!
The Rock Island family is growing and we are making more room!
619 East 8th Street ~ Historic Eldon
rockislandvillage.com
WE’VE WE’VE GOT THIS.
GOT GOTTHIS. THIS.
RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS AMID CONSTANT CHANGE IS AYOUR LOT TO HANDLE. RUNNING BUSINESS AMID CONSTANT CONSTANT RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS AMID CHANGE A LOT HANDLE. CHANGE IS AISLOT TOTO HANDLE. We get it! That’s why we’ve stayed on top of what’s happening across We get it! That’s why we’ve stayed on top of what’s happening across ourget network of 300k to understand painhappening points andacross where We it! That’s why clients we’ve stayed on top ofyour what’s our network of 300k clients to understand your pain points and where your customers are looking for answers right now. And, we have a few our network of 300k clients to understand your pain points and where your customers are looking for answers right now. And, we have a few ideas (backed by data course) on to your customers are looking for answers righton now. And, wepivot haveyour a few ideas (backed by dataand and insights, insights, ofofcourse) howhow to pivot your marketing strategy toto succeed inthe the current climate. marketing strategy succeed in climate. ideas (backed by data and insights, ofcurrent course) on how to pivot your marketing strategy to succeed in the current climate. PUT THESE SOLUTIONS WORK FOR FOR YOUR NOW! PUT THESE SOLUTIONS TOTOWORK YOURBUSINESS BUSINESS NOW! Contact your sales rep today or visit PUT THESE SOLUTIONS WORK FOR YOUR BUSINESS NOW! Contact your sales repTO today or visit LOCALiQ.com/SayHello for more info. LOCALiQ.com/SayHello for more info. Contact your sales rep today or visit LOCALiQ.com/SayHello for more info.
BACKED BY DATA. POWERED BY INTELLIGENCE.
BACKED BY DATA. POWERED BY INTELLIGENCE. BACKED BY DATA. POWERED BY INTELLIGENCE.
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
19
Home
Lure Lake Life The of
Real estate and construction saw record growth in 2020, as more people make Lake of the Ozarks their home. STORY BY CHARIS PATIRES
20
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
T
here’s no doubt about it … 2020 was a memorable year. No one could have predicted the impact it would have on Lake of the Ozarks. If you spent any time at all at the Lake you probably noticed it too — the increase in traffic. Both on and off the water, business was booming with many locals reporting record sales. The housing market and construction industry could barely keep up.
“We were way busier than anyone thought we would be,” Sara Veile, real estate agent with RE/MAX Lake of the Ozarks, said. “We thought it would be a slow year (due to COVID) but in April/May everyone started coming here.” Veile is also on the Lake of the Ozarks Board of Realtors and is the state director for Missouri Realtors. She says while the real estate market was also booming in other parts of the nation, Lake of the Ozarks was a hotspot of activity. “Some came as an escape. They were sick of being in their home and wanted to vacation with their family
and socially distance,” Veile said. “But also people came (to the Lake) because they didn’t want to social distance and a lot of things were open. We saw a mix.” Families who had vacations planned were forced to cancel but still had the extra money and wanted a place for their family to escape. People started buying up Lake homes. The result — inventory was quickly depleted — and still is. Veile said buyers are waiting for homes to come on the market. When they are, they are selling quickly often with multiple offers and higher than asking price. Homes in the $150,000-$450,000 are the most in demand, especially those in the $300,000 range.
CHARIS PATIRES PHOTO
UNSTOPPABLE GROWTH
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
21
Just about everything is desirable. Even homes that had been on the market for two years, were overpriced, and needed a lot of work were quickly bought up last season. Houses with a $1 million price tag and vacant lots are selling better than they have the last couple of years, she said. “There’s not enough houses to pick from to buy so their next option is to build,” Veile said. Condominiums were PRO TIP Sara Veile, real estate agent also going fast. Some with RE/MAX Lake of the Ozarks Just about everything on the real estate market is moving, including had multiple offers says buyers and sellers at Lake vacant lots. Buyers who can’t find exactly what they are looking for due in the first 24 to of the Ozarks should act now. to low inventory are building new homes and there are several develop48 hours of being Buyers need to find a realtor ments in the Lake area under construction. CHARIS PATIRES PHOTO listed. Waterside they like, enroll in email alerts, and be ready to make an offer One Condofit their needs. One-level living with the IF YOU BUILD quick. Even if they think a home miniums, a new master on the main floor and an open IT THEY is not ready for sale, sellers 20-unit condoWILL COME concept are becoming requirements facshould talk with a realtor before minium project on investing a lot of money into tored in during a remodel or new build. Tony Otto, the 1-mile marker improvements. It might be best Otto says there continues to be a void to put it on the market sooner, owner of Otto Conof the Grand Glaize for affordable housing, as well as secrather than later. struction says he’s Arm quickly sold out, ond-tier homes in the $220,000 range. had steady growth over although it looks like a few “We have people trying to move to the last couple of years with units are on the market today. the Lake but are having trouble findremodeling and new home conSite work has begun on a new condoing people who want to build them a struction but this year was one for the minium complex next to the Grand Glaize reasonably-priced home,” Otto said. He record books. Bridge. Topsider Condominiums will be has started a subdivision in Eldon to try “We are in a good spot, in a desirable a high-end waterfront development that to bridge that gap. place where people want to be,” Otto will incorporate elements to tribute the One of the challenges for builders at said. property’s unique history. The five-story the moment is higher prices on some With about 25 workers on the payroll, complex will feature some three bedmaterials, including lumber which in Otto says they have been busy modifyroom, two bath units; and some three October was 80 percent higher than what ing existing homes so people can become bedroom, 2.5 bath units. it was a year ago. Otto says fortunately more permanent Lake residents. Veile says she thinks the inventory the prices are coming down. “We are not building their house shortage will continue to be an issue, Also, the availability of some materials just for the weekend anymore,” Otto especially as the season starts to kick off and labor shortages are an issue. said. “They want to make it more in March and people resume their search “Labor drives everything,” he said. permanent.” for a place at the Lake. “Anyone in the trades is having to pay So, instead of building it around their “If this continues, hopefully we will more to keep good guys or to attract weekend activities, homeowners are see more commercial development too better people. So labor is up a little bit making sure where they stay is built to because we need it,” Veile said. because of that.”
For sale signs didn’t stay up for long at Lake of the Ozarks in 2020. CHARIS PATIRES PHOTO 22
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
If It Needs A Roof, WE Can Roof It From The Dog House To Your House! NO MONEY DOWN!
THANK YOU FOROF VOTING SERVING LAKE THE ABOVE OZARKS AND BEYOND ROOFING THE BEST AND SURROUNDING AREAS ROOFING COMPANY AT THE LAKE! 2018
HE LAKE 2020 OF T
ial Community Choice Aw Offic ard The s
FREE Roof Inspections & Bids
Financing Available RELIABLE QUALITY and COMPETITIVE PRICES!
Offering: • Metal Roofs • Flat Roofs • Shingle Roofs • and MORE! “References Available Upon Request”
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • Re-Roofs • Licensed • Worker’s Comp Insurance • Liability Insurance • Locally Owned & Operated • New Construction
• Snow Removal— Docks & Home Roofs • Insurance Claims Specialist • Storm and Hail Damage • Repairs
Office: (573) 302-0354 www.LakeOzarkRoofing.com
Pictured are some of the design trends at Lake of the Ozarks. ABOVE: Large 12x24 Eramosa Matt Clay tiles were chosen for this master bathroom. AT RIGHT: This fireplace was built with Silver Ash Travertine Ledger stone. Wood flooring, like the Canoe Bay Barnwood floors by Herregan Floors, is a popular choice. BELOW: The flooring for this kitchen was also real wood using Master’s Craft Ponderosa Hickory Pecos.
PRO TIP
Since March, John Hayes says his phone has been ringing off the hook. Now, he’s booked up through June. As the owner of Hayes Construction, a mix of full and part-timers are reaching out to complete home improvement projects. This year they’ve been particularly busy with decks, siding and window installations. People are requesting bigger living areas, whether it is the master suite, living room, or a covered deck. Hayes said they hit a niche building decks this year. Composite decking is especially sought after because there is no maintenance required. People are willing to spend more on a high-quality product, more than in previous years. “In 2021, I do not see us slowing down. What surprised me was there was a huge increase in the cost of materials, and I see that starting to creep down slowly, but I don’t see it slowing down at the Lake. 24
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
Personally, I would expect a strong couple of years as there is a transition between part-timers becoming full-timers. A lot of people are coming to stay.” While he is still bidding jobs, Hayes says he is having to tell people it may be awhile before he can get to their project. One piece of advice he has for anyone undergoing a home improvement project is to be patient. “Understand that if you have a good contractor, they are doing everything they can to move the project along,” he said.
TRENDS IN HOME IMPROVEMENT Kelly Pirtle, design consultant with Dugan’s Paint & Flooring Centers says
It’s easy and convenient for customers to use websites and Apps to get design ideas. Kelly Pirtle with Dugan’s Paint & Flooring suggests using Pinterest, Houzz, shawfloors. com/floorvana-plus, or search for other interactive platforms to help you discover your design dreams.
they’ve experienced the same increase in customers eager to remodel or update their Lake homes. “We have also seen an increase in clients that have relocated to the Lake full-time,” Pirtle said. New flooring, tile showers, and new backsplashes seem to be the most popular requests being made. Homeowners are choosing to remove carpet in the living and dining room, and are replacing it with hardwood or luxury vinyl wood planks. Vinyl plank flooring has been the most popular flooring choice of 2020 — it’s waterproof and has the look of real wood.
RAGANCABINETS
Your kitchen is the
Tap Your Sense of Style with Ragan Cabinets at Lake of the Ozarks Form meets function... meets quality...meets style.
Heart of your home.
A lifetime of memories happen in your space, so the details are all important. Your family gathers, connects, and shares here, so everything needs to be perfect and timeless. That’s where we come in.
866 MO Highway 42 • Osage Beach, MO 65065 • 573.234.6830 • ragancabinets.com
Adding new backsplashes to update kitchens and new fireplace stacked stone or tile are two ways to get an updated look for those budget-conscious customers. Pirtle recommends if you are wanting to do any work on your home to plan ahead. Installers are booked up and materials seem to be on backorder more often lately, she said.
INTERIOR DESIGN & LUXURY PURCHASES Home values at the Lake are up and people are buying. Bigger houses are selling quicker. All good news for John Elliott, owner of John Elliott Interiors, a showroom in Lake Ozark featuring luxury home furnishings and interior design. “The real estate market always helps me. The better real estate is, the better we do,” he said. During the pandemic there were two types of clients, he said. Those who purchased a home and needed it furnished, and those staying home more and wanting to update their look. Many people started
Many homeowners are expanding their living spaces to include larger decks for entertaining. Perfect for social distancing with family and friends. Pictured, a Trex deck completed by Hayes Construction. PHOTO PROVIDED
to take notice of their surroundings and realized how outdated their interiors were, or they want something more comfortable because they are spending additional time indoors. Either way, that means big business for Elliott who has owned the showroom for 11 years. While many furniture stores and other companies had shortages that impacted delivering products, sometimes by weeks or months, Elliott said he had ordered an extra $400,000 in inventory early last spring and
Style and service with North America’s #1 choice. Style and service with North America’s #1 choice. Style and service with North America’s #1 choice. Styleand andservice servicewith withNorth NorthAmerica’s America’s#1 #1choice. choice. Style Style and service with North America’s #1 choice. Style and and service service with with North North America’s America’s #1 #1 choice. choice. Style Style and service with North America’s #1 choice.
Drapery
Cellular Shades
Drapery
Cellular Shades
Drapery Drapery Drapery Drapery
Cellular Shades Cellular Shades Cellular Shades Cellular Shades
Drapery Drapery
Cellular Shades Cellular Shades
Drapery
Cellular Shades
Faux Wood Blinds
could fulfill orders quickly. That inventory was gone by July but he was able to reorder and limit how long customers had to wait for merchandise to be delivered. One exception has been custom upholstery which normally takes 4-6 weeks. It is now taking 6-8 weeks. “The investment that has happened here really does change everything. It was such a monumental change for the Lake,” he said. “This will effect us for the next decade. This was the biggest win for the Lake and nobody saw it coming.”
Shutters
©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.
Faux Wood Blinds
Shutters
Faux Wood Blinds Shutters ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Faux Wood Blinds Shutters ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and Faux Wood Blinds Shutters operated. Faux Wood Blinds Shutters ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated. operated. ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.
Faux Wood Blinds Faux Wood Blinds
26
Shutters Shutters
©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated. ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.
Faux Wood Blinds LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
Shutters
©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.
Call now for your free in-home consultation! Call now for your free in-home Call now forconsultation! your Thank You For Call now for your free in-home consultation! Call now for your Call now forconsultation! your free in-home Voting Budget free in-home consultation! free in-home consultation! Blinds Best Of Budget Blinds.com Call now for your Call now for yourOF THE LAKE 2020 in-home consultation! Thefree Lake Again free in-home consultation! Budget Blinds.com now for your ThisCall Year! 105Blinds.com South Main Budget free in-home consultation! Laurie, MO Budget Blinds.com Budget Blinds.com 105Blinds.com South Main Budget Laurie,Main MO 105 South Budget Blinds.com 105Blinds.com South Laurie, MOMain Budget 105 South Main 105 South Laurie,Main MO Laurie, MO Budget Blinds.com Laurie, MO 105 South Main Blinds Shutters • Shades 105 •South Main Drapes • HomeMO Automation Laurie, Laurie, MO 105•South Main Blinds Shutters • Shades Drapes • HomeMO Blinds • Laurie, Shutters •Automation Shades
573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 573-374-0330 Community Ch oice Official The Awa rds
Drapes • Home Automation Blinds • Shutters • Shades Blinds • Shutters • Shades Drapes • Home•Automation Blinds • Shutters Shades Drapes • Home Automation Drapes • Home Automation Blinds • Shutters • Shades Blinds ••Shutters • Shades Drapes Home Automation Drapes • Home Automation Blinds • Shutters • Shades Drapes • Home Automation
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
27
Health
NAVIGATING THE
MODERN GROCERY STORE
G
STORY BY ROSE GREEN-FLORES
rocery stores have always been brimming with delicious temptations. And now, with so many new food options marketed as healthy, consumers have a harder time than ever knowing what is a smart purchase. “Reading labels has never been more important — even with foods that claim to be healthy, organic or better for you,” said Kasi DiBello, R.D., L.D., a registered dietitian at Lake Regional. “Some of these products provide little nutritional value for the calories spent. Always look at the ingredient list and nutritional content, and select healthier options whenever possible.” Below are some common food items shoppers now find in their grocery stores. But are they really any better for you? Gluten-free products can be found throughout the grocery store. For people avoiding gluten or with a gluten intolerance, these options can be appealing, but they are not all equal. Some of these products contain highly processed refined grains and offer little to no nutrients. “Gluten-free does not always mean healthier – these products can contain added salt, sugar and fats to enhance palatability and flavor,” DiBello said. “Look for options that are 30
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
free of additives and chemicals, high in protein and fiber, and low in sodium and sugar. Also, look for options that are naturally gluten-free.” Non-dairy milk, cheese, yogurt and butter options are expanding as more people follow vegetarian or vegan diets or need non-dairy alternatives due to allergies or intolerances. “Non-dairy items can certainly play a role as part of a healthy diet,” DiBello said. “But they may be lacking important nutrients, such as protein, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, B vitamins and essential fatty acids. If that is the case, use other food selections to provide those missing nutrients. For milks and yogurts, be wary of added sugar — try to select unsweetened over flavored options.” “Healthy” sodas are marketed as no-sugar or low-sugar alternatives to soda. Like their traditional counterpart, they are a carbonated beverage that can come in a variety of flavors. “Sparkling waters and flavored seltzers are certainly a healthier substitute for soda and other sweetened drinks,” DiBello said. “But not all can be considered healthy. The best choices are those that contain sparkling water and natural flavors, with no added sugars.”
T I P S FROM A DIETITIAN “Many of the tried-and-true tricks for navigating the grocery store still apply,” said Kasi DiBello, R.D., L.D., a registered dietitian at Lake Regional. “These simple tips will help you.”
1. Plan ahead, and make a list. 2. Don’t shop hungry. 3. Look for food items with simple ingredient lists. 4. Limit added sugar in all its forms. 5. Select vibrant colors of produce. Organic foods must be grown without bioengineering, hormones, irradiation or pesticides. And organic animal products must be free of growth hormones and antibiotics. “Organic foods are appealing because of their lower levels of pesticide residue and lack of hormones and antibiotics,” DiBello said. “But a review of 12 major studies spanning decades found no evidence that eating organic food brings any additional nutrition benefits.” Vegetable-based pastas vary widely when it comes to sodium, calories, fiber and especially the amount of vegetables they contain. “It might take several servings of vegetable-based pasta to equal a full serving of vegetables,” DiBello said. “Find a product that tastes good to you, be aware of the portion size, and serve it with extra vegetables to help meet your recommended daily servings of produce. Spiralized vegetables can also serve as a nutritious pasta substitute. “All in all, don’t take a brand’s word for it that their product is good for you,” DiBello continued. “Before putting an item in your basket, read the nutrition label. Check the ingredients, and make sure it isn’t loaded with added sugar, sodium, trans fats and additives.” Get more tips for healthy living, including recipes, online at lakeregional.com/healthlibrary.
6. Choose whole grain products with the most fiber per serving. 7. Eat more fruits and veggies. Rose Green-Flores is the Public Relations specialist at Lake Regional Health System.
Lake Regional Pharmacy Offers
Free DELIVERY Camdenton 573-346-2300
Eldon 573-557-2231
Lake Ozark 573-964-6200
Home • Office • Nursing Home
Laurie 573-374-7522
Osage Beach 573-302-2700 LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
31
Entertainment
VINTAGE VIBES
Frank Phelps’ 1973 Les Paul Gibson
M
STORY BY CONNYE GRIFFIN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL GRIFFIN
e is Frank Phelps. Jim is Jim Biggs. Both play vintage Gibson guitars, and both play songs from a vintage era, the 1960s and 1970s, when melodies waxed smooth and flowed from musician down to dance floors and up to full hearts. On a warm late summer day as the Shootout wound down, Me and Jim revived those musical moves at Lake Burger. A couple swayed to the Bossa Nova beat of “The Girl from Ipanema” performed at “conversational volume.” Patrons heard and congratulated Me and Jim between songs, each praising the melodies so familiar, rendered anew on those classic guitars. Frank’s favorite vintage guitar is a 1973 Les Paul Gibson
32
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
in patent-leather black. He bought it new and still thinks it’s one of the finer instruments he’s ever owned. On it, he plays chords harmonizing with the melody and taps a foot showing he still loves the rhythms of the day. Frank not only plays guitar, he also plays the mandolin, just two stringed instruments he began learning to master at the age of 7. Born into a family band in which Mom, Dad, brothers, and sisters played, it was natural that Frank follow them into music. In contrast, Jim was a late-starter. He didn’t pick up a guitar until age 14. Still, on that Shootout day in August, Jim was playing a candy-apple red Gibson guitar, his fingers moving deftly up and down the neck to bring the melody to life.
MORE INFO: Jim and Me on Facebook.
Jim makes the guitar sing the notes a vocalist might, but neither Jim nor Frank claims to be a singer. Their duo is strictly instrumental, but oh, how their music sings even though neither man reads musical notes. They play by ear and chords, and it shows. They are keen listeners, a gift that elevates tunes from days gone by into classics. Jim’s favorite tune, when pressed to choose just one, is “Stormy” made famous by the Classics IV. Jim’s art makes the melody as full of feeling as the lyrics sung by Dennis Yost in 1968. Jim’s guitar wafts like the song’s “warm summer breeze.” Frank couldn’t settle on just one favorite, but his favorites include an instrumental version of “Baby I’m-A Want You” by Bread, a soft rock tune first heard with the falsetto sounds of David Gates. Heard as an instrumental reverberating from the black Les Paul Gibson, the melody is warm and mellow. Jim is one man responsible for gas pumps at service stations and convenience stores. His day job was installing them. Frank was a retail grocer, both manager and owner. He is also a crafter with an Etsy business selling CypherWheels, ancient papers, and treasure maps to solve the enigmas every life presents. Now in retirement, both men have fallen into their first love, music. They’ve been playing together for 11 years. Last year, they celebrated their 1,000th performance. Since then, they have exceeded 1,100, still playing, still going, still making beautifully smooth sounds.
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
33
Art
Spontaneous Creativity Poured paint technique perfected by artist Andrea Fewell
STORY BY CONNYE GRIFFIN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL GRIFFIN
A
feather’s light symmetry delights as it floats from on high down to grasses below. Rarely does a hiker pass by without wondering at its design. Underwater Sea Fans are wonders, too. They waft and wave with the tides, rooted in azure blue ocean waters. Missouri has its own azure beauty in waters washing through limestone and dolomite. Right here at the Lake, the beautiful Ha Ha Tonka Spring carries that rich blue of a summer sky. Such natural beauties inspire Andrea Fewell as she creates jewelry and transforms canvas with acrylic paint, a bit of butane flame, and warm air, even the artist’s own breath gently moving the paint. With an artist’s eye and practice, Andrea has learned to trust color, viscosity, and technique to produce a work that surprises and delights the eye — even the artist’s own. What Andrea values most in the artistic process is that each piece is unique. The true joy found in art, she says, is in discovering which color will rise to the top, which ones complement each other best, and what patterns will emerge. For photos, Andrea selected the rich, vibrant colors of Autumn: pumpkin, raspberry, and green. These she poured onto the lower third of a canvas still wet with bright white acrylic. Using a small butane flame and a hair dryer, she pushed the paint and popped some paint bubbles until she had achieved an effect that pleased her artist’s eye. Some of those colors ran down the edges to a surface below. The drips add dimension to the canvas. Paint 34
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
that fell free, once dried, will be carefully scraped and preserved in a journal from which Andrea will select oval, rectangular, heart-shaped, and circular swatches to fill costume jewelry. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings become miniature natural wonders— just a bit of iridescent glory adding sparkle to an ensemble. These can be found on Andrea’s Facebook page, Controlled Chaos Canvases. Andrea considers the Lake her true home. She’s a Camdenton High graduate, but found her true love well before her senior year. At age 14, she met and later married Matt Fewell of Fewell’s Automotive, a repair shop established by Matt’s father. Together, Andrea and Matt have four boys. Andrea is their homeschool teacher. Formal art study is not what drew Andrea to paint. Rather art is in her nature. She says she could often be found in her dad’s garage “building things out of scrap wood and painting them.” Now her work includes furniture that she refinishes with the same poured paint techniques. She has made TV trays and footstools into fine art. These pieces as well as canvases can be commissioned to complete a décor. Similarly, functional coasters can become artistic “pop” pieces impervious to water, thanks to Andrea’s art and a marine-grade epoxy seal. Andrea has taught and will teach her techniques one-on-one or in groups no larger than 10. She enjoys sharing the spontaneity of the creative process with others as much as she enjoys explaining how she achieves an effect. Those gorgeous feathers require a bit of chain rather than a paint brush, for example. Equally important to her art are natural elements such as “gravity, water, and fire.” These inspire the artist and move the paint to finished designs. Some of those designs are in the eye of the beholder. Buyers at Linn Creek’s Farmer’s Market or market days around the Lake often see a bird or a face they adore in the design, shapes that Andrea herself hadn’t seen until she shared her work with others. This is all part of the artistic discovery and joy in creating that drive the artist.
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
35
Fashion
Comfort
and
CLASSIC STORY AND PHOTOS BY SARAH REES
Collide THREE FASHION TRENDS IN 2021
J
Sarah Rees is wearing a Cozy Up sweater dress, $52 and Faye over-the-knee boots, $58.
36
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
ust when the fashion industry was leaving leggings, athleisure and comfort in the dust and finally moving on toward a life of denim and classic chic silhouettes, 2020 happened. Many of us did not dare squeeze into a pair of jeans for months and then by October we were dressing up just to run to the grocery store. Any excuse to wear that favorite new jacket we bought way back in March! As a girl that loves a cute dress or a fancy skirt, I am delighted to say that this year, regardless of staying at home, the world of fashion has stepped up its game. In 2021 you will be seeing a place where comfort and classic fashion collide. The first trend that is going to be taking over your Instagram feed will be the exaggerated “Power Pant.” We have already seen a shift from tight leggings to relaxed fitting joggers in the past year, but in 2021 it will have a whole new spin. From denim to knits, you will not need to worry about fitting into your skinny jeans because the trendy silhouettes just became a lot bigger. Skinny jeans are out, the exaggerated loose cut is in! This transition away from the form fitting pant is great for both the sedentary woman working from her couch and for the active woman that still does not understand the term “work from home.” This style of pant is easy to wear, allows for a larger range of motion and channels that inner 80’s girl. The “Power Pant” will bring both comfort and classic to the table.
LEFT: Kamber Wofford is wearing an Aspen sweater, $52; the Show Stopper faux suede jogger, $78 and a wool felt hat, $38. BELOW: Landree is wearing the Lacey button up shirt, $58 and Wild West boots, $68.
The second trend to adopt is the oversized classic staple piece. Blazers Landree Hills is and white button-down tops that wearing a Sleigh All look like they belong in a man’s Day cropped sweater, closet, are exactly the look you $62; a Brynn cropped should be going for. This is the pant, $38 and The Rosy Mule, $64. epitome of the place where comfort and classic style collide. There is nothing more classic than a menswear plaid or tweed blazer. But can we all agree that they are not exactly what we would consider “comfortable?” That is where the oversized trend comes into play. The fashion motto of 2021 could possibly be, “The Bigger the Better!” Pair these exaggerated pieces with a pair of leggings, your favorite tee, and sneakers and this is the ultimate classic and comfortable statement. Finally, let us talk about extravagant sleeves. As you may have noticed, exaggerated silhouettes are the trend of 2021. It does not stop with pants or blazers, but you will start to notice tops with sharp shoulders and pleated and puffed sleeves. These overShelby Ellison is stated sleeves bring a wearing a Reena plaid blazer, $48; a classic feminine feel Jana one shoulder to the fashion scene. bodysuit, $42 and To make this trend the Heidi Embossed comfortable they are Croc skirt, $44.
presented in knits and sweaters with plenty of room to move. This allows for versatility and comfort in the style. When wearing one of these tops, you will feel elegant and whimsical, and like you can sit back and relax all at the same time. Now, do not worry, lounge and athleisure will still be all over the market this year and will not be disappearing any time soon. However, there is something to be said about stepping up your wardrobe every now and then. I can guarantee that if you throw on a whimsical sweater or an oversized blazer just once a week that you will eventually realize that comfort and style can go hand in hand. Whatever you choose to wear this year, I challenge you to make it something you feel confident in. Just taking five extra minutes a day LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
37
to put on something special can give you extra confidence walking into the room or showing up to your Zoom call. Make this year the one where you love what you wear, not only because it is comfortable, not only because it makes you feel classy, but because when you wear it you are a confident woman. Find the piece that will make you believe that comfort and classic really can collide. Sarah Rees is the owner of Palmer Place Boutique, www.shoppalmerplace.com * Some photos taken at 1932 Reserve and 1932 Reserve Lofts located in Osage Beach.
Landree is wearing the Feeling Fresh bodysuit, $36 and the Addi satin cargo pant, $48.
Kamber is wearing the Reggie smocked top, $36 and the Izzy high waisted jean, $50.
Landree is wearing a Tickle Me orange bodysuit, $46 and Landree suede skort, $48.
Sarah is wearing a Reena plaid blazer, $48 and City Sidewalk platform sneakers, $46.
38
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
Decorate with Confidence
Our Grand Re-Opening Will Be April 1, 2021 Showcasing New Spring Decorating Ideas
DIY Classes COMING SOON! Visit our website or facebook page for our upcoming schedule.
Thank You To All Of Our Customers – We ARE Truly Grateful For Your Business! Closing For The Season January 1st through March 31st
6711 Highway 54 West – Osage Beach | 573.346.2286 Monday through Saturday 9 to 5 | Open Sundays 11 to 5
www.evergreenatthelake.com
HE LAKE 2020 OF T
ial Community Choice Aw Offic ard The s
Wedding
autical nuptuals When COVID changed their plans, this couple didn’t let that get in the way of having a memorable wedding. STORY COMPILED BY CHARIS PATIRES PHOTOS BY JESSICA LAUREN PHOTOGRAPHY
Rishi and Rima Gandhi had planned on getting married in Chicago with a traditional ceremony among 300 guests. Due to COVID they were forced to downsize but didn’t want to postpone their wedding. They decided to move it to their “happy place” and exchanged vows at Lake of the Ozarks. On July 4, 2020, in front of immediate family, the couple held a ceremony onboard their tritoon at the exact same spot where Rishi proposed. “This is where we got engaged and spent a lot of weekends during the summer. It is special to us,” Rima said. The couple met in 2015 at Ballpark Village in St. Louis after meeting up with mutual friends. Rishi proposed on October 13, 2018 while out on the family’s boat at Lake of the Ozarks. “The crazy thing about our wedding was because of the pandemic, our families came together to help with all the details,” Rima said. “These were all special touches to our big day.” Rima’s mother-in-law built a floral back-drop for the boat that included the colors that were going to be a part of their original wedding (lavender and ivory/champagne). Rima’s sister did her hair and makeup, and her sister-in-law made the cake. “We are perfect for each other because we balance on another out! We motivate and support each other and have the same values as well,” Rima says. Both their sisters performed the ceremony, while Rima’s sister was the officiant. “The most memorable part of the day was the actual ceremony itself,” Rima said. “The ceremony was short and sweet but full of emotions!”
40
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
After the wedding, the couple honeymooned in Hilton Head and Charleston, S.C. but are hoping to go somewhere abroad next year. Rishi graduated from Mizzou and is a financial advisor. Rima graduated from St. Louis University and is a physical therapist. They live in Chesterfield.
42
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
Originally there was going to be seven groomsmen and seven bridesmaids but they had to shorten the guest list to immediate family. Rima’s sister was still able to be the matron of honor and their dog Bentley was able to be a part of the big day. Everyone got ready at their condo in Camdenton and took off for the ceremony by boat. The rings were purchased from Blue Nile and the bride’s gown is from Lulus.
Local Flavors
LEFT: Chocolate, Banana Cream, and Lemon Lavender Cupcakes with a Vietnamese Coffee. BELOW: Hot Lavender Macchiato and a Hot Latte.
Just okay
IS NEVER ENOUGH Serendipity Coffee Roasting Company serves savory flavors with baked goods and fine coffees
I
STORY BY CONNYE GRIFFIN + PHOTOGRAPHY BY AL GRIFFIN
nspired by a father’s hobby and a daughter’s dream, the Simmons family has opened Serendipity Coffee Roasting Company for Eldon’s residents and the greater Lake community. Cliff Simmons, his wife Marilyn, and daughter Sariah are the mainstays at Serendipity, each contributing their talent and art to a budding business. Two sons add their labor as well. Opened on July 1, 2020, in a difficult year, Serendipity continues to exceed the Simmons’ expectations. During a visit and interview in early September, Serendipity was busy with walk-in take-out customers while others enjoyed WiFi or quiet conversation. What all have come for is the good, savory flavors of a fine coffee bean, America’s favorite way to kickstart any day. Somewhere between the first and second crack of a green coffee bean resides its full flavor in a light to medium air roast. At Serendipity, the Columbian
Triple Ferment bean delivers complex notes of citrus fruits and berries. Father and daughter Cliff and Sariah delight in rendering that flavor and several more for customers. They began to do so online on January 1, 2020, six months before they opened the retail coffee shop on Maple Street in Eldon. That online business supported their dream to provide a welcoming gathering place for people to enjoy baked goods and fine coffees. One of Cliff and Sariah’s favorite coffees is the Frozen Cherry. That roast is aptly named because the green coffee beans are flash frozen, sun dried, and flash frozen again in a 400-hour process that becomes a dark bean with cherry undertones. The team also agree that Columbian Triple Ferment and Ethiopian Blueberry are fine roasted beans as well. Both are popular at Serendipity, online or in-store, but both sell out quickly. Some of these coffees are the base for pour-over and art in a cup. In her role as barista, co-owner Sariah meticulously made a Hot Honey Lavender Macchiato,
served in a large, wide ceramic mug. The creamy surface held lavender buds providing the clean scent of herb gardens and open fields. It invites patrons to sip and relax. It had me at first sip. Another true Serendipity delight is the Vietnamese coffee, a participation beverage — so-called because the customer finishes the preparation. The coffee arrives on a quality wood serving tray featuring Serendipity’s logo. On that tray is a glass of iced espresso and a smaller glass showcasing layers of cream and more espresso. The customer uses a small coffee spoon to stir the two layers into a rich, caramel blend before pouring the blend over the iced coffee and stirring again. The completed drink is both satisfying and delicious. A featured pour-over at Serendipity begins with Geisha coffee, an Ethiopian bean trending in the 21st century. The Simmons acquire this bean, as they do all their beans, through a supplier sourcing from Columbia, South America. However, the Simmons attend U. S. Coffee LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
43
A view to Maple Street from inside Serendipity.
Serendipity Coffee Roasting Company Marilyn, Sariah, and Cliff Simmons are the Serendipity team.
championships when travel and business demands allow. They taste and learn. They study and build on their at-home pan-roasting experiences. They listen and welcome mentoring by the owners and managers at Three Story Coffee in Jefferson City. They are serious about the coffee community — as serious as they are about providing clean, discernible flavors in every roasted bean. For their business, the Simmons’ team chose an Artisan 3 air roaster. This allows customers to select a green bean from tall dispensers on the wall. Their selections can then be roasted on site and bagged or brewed. The process is thus not proprietary at all. Roaster and patron complete the full circle from bean to steaming cup together. Marilyn Simmons, Cliff’s wife and Sariah’s mother, honed her home baking skills to a high art. She adds that art to 44
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
18 Maple Street, Eldon Open 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Closed Sundays.
Serendipity’s success. One of her contributions is light as air cupcakes under sweet frosting crowns. The Lemon Lavender proves Marilyn delivers delicious goods in every bite. She also provides flaky croissants, creamy cheesecakes, a fine six-inch chocolate chip cookie, and muffins, rich in berries and nuts. On Mondays, those muffins include dairy-free, gluten-free versions. For non-coffee drinkers and children, Serendipity has Bubble Fraps, otherwise known as creamy deliciousness in a sodafountain glass. Made with fruits such as mango or strawberry, half-and-half, and Boba bubbles, the frap (frappe) is finished with a mound of whipped cream. It will delight the child in us all, but if fewer calories are what the customer has in mind, Serendipity makes a Lavender Lemonade that is very popular, too.
Steller Strawberry and Mango Madness Bubbles Fraps with Serendipity’s cheesecake.
Serendipity Coffee Roasting Company has brought to life a building dating from 1890. The ceilings and floor are original. Tall windows let light pour in, bathing the space in warmth. Bright yellow chairs and accents, ivory walls, and warm, fine-grain wood tables create a homey, cozy space. A display shelf showcases honey from two local beekeepers, The Bee Team and Pure Hardesty. Coffee mugs made by Muddy Otter are also for sale. Serendipity will add gift baskets, pour-over sets, and T-shirts as the holidays approach. For September 11, Serendipity will be home to an evening of music. It has been the gathering place for Bible study groups, community meetings, and a baby shower — exactly what the Simmons hoped for when they opened the shop. The name of the shop, Serendipity, may best describe the business itself. A father’s hobby became a family’s vocation; a daughter’s dream became a real business now thriving. These are everyday occurrences colliding with good intentions, and those have beneficial results for both the Simmons’ family and Eldon.
Local Events Local Events Local Events
Things to do A list of what’s happening in the Lake of the Ozarks area.
Food Food & & Dining Dining
Attractions & Functions
Film, Theater & Dance
Arts
Sporting Events
Music
Events from November 6toto January24 2 Events from September 11to October Events from January 23 February 27 NOVEMBER 611& 7 SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 17
NOVEMBER 14
DINNER THEATER HOT NIGHTS 7 p.m.,SUMMER Camden County Museum. A dinner
QUILT SALE
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Camdenton United Methodist Bagnell Dam Strip. Anyone theater production of “The is Man Who Came to Church. Quilters and crafters will be having their welcome to park their car, truck Dinner” will be held. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. quilt and craft items for sale. Masks and social or bike is along theat center lane and dinner served distancing are encouraged. JANUARY 23 6 p.m., and the play begins at take part in is the entertainment 7 p.m. Cost $15 per person. 573-346-5350 happening along Strip. The 573-346-7191 ext. the 8, www.camdencountymuTALENT SHOW September seum.org event will be held PARTY WITH A PURPOSE Royal p.m. The 4th annual Show from 5-10Theatre, p.m. The7 theme is “A 6 p.m., Margaritaville Lake Resort. The Party Us Your Talent talentPolice, show will be held in Salute to Our Military, NOVEMBER 7 & DECEMBER 5 with a Purpose fundraiser, benefitting WonVersailles. Anyone is invited to showcase their Firefighters & EMTs as We derland Camp, will be held in the Northwinds talent. Tickets $10the forMay adults and $5 for Remember 9/11.”are Since Ballroom. Entertainment by the i-Berry’s, compliSWING DANCE (ages 3-18). students/children event was canceled, it has been mentary cocktails, food, and a live and silent 7 p.m., Ozark Yacht Club. The Lake of the Ozarks 573-378-6226 or and www.theroyaltheatre.com moved to October will be auction will be held. Swing Dance Club will present their for Giving held from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 573-392-1000 Anniversary Dance in November and the Jingle Hot Summer Nights on Facebook & Mingle Christmas Social & Dance in December. Social hour with dancers is at 7 p.m., followed TRIVIA NIGHT SEPTEMBER 11-13 by dancing until 10:30 p.m. Cost for members 2:30 p.m., Christ the King Fellowship Hall. A 6 andFEBRUARY sister club members are $7 per person and 1950s-1980s trivia night and silent auction will MAGIC DRAGON non-members and guests are $10 per person. A be hosted by the Sailing Solo group. The event CAR mixBEATLES ofSHOW music isCONCERT played (swing, cha cha, country, is open to everyone. Soft drinks will be proDaily, Bagnell Dam7 Strip. The Royal Theatre, p.m. The Abbey Road Warnightclub two-step, waltz and others). Cash bar. vided, BYO snacks. Cost is $5 per person with 32nd annual Magic Dragon some Streetof the most riors will be performing www.LakeOzarksSwingDance.com money raised going to The King’s Academy. Meet Nationals showcases all popular songs by The Beatles. Tickets are $10 Masks and social distancing will be observed. makes, models and years of cars, for adults and 902-832-3064, 573-434-9528 NOVEMBER 7 $5 for students/children (ages trucks and motorcycles. Each In its 19th year, the popular Eagle Days event has been moved to March. Typically held in January, with 3-18). year 1,000 participants enter community safety in mind, the Eagle Days Committee has decided20-22 to postpone the event until later in 573-378-6226 or www.theroyaltheatre.com NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 20 & 21 VETERANS the show. CarsPARADE line up along the the spring in hopes it can be done safely and with more options, weather permitting. It is scheduled for 1 p.m., Osage Beach Parkway. The Osage BeachDragon Car Show is usually held in May, but has been postponed to September. FILE PHOTOS Bagnell Dam Strip. The Magic March 6 with live bird programs at Osage National Golf Resort and Regalia Hotel & Conference Center. FEBRUARY 20 the 7th annual Veterans STAGE PLAY Elks Lodge will host HOLIDAY www.magicdragoncarshow.com Birds of preySHOPPING from Dickerson Park Zoo and the World Bird Sanctuary are brought in for the programs.. 7 p.m. Saturday & 2 p.m. Sunday, The Royal Parade. Cars will line up at 11:30 a.m. at City Hall 9FILE a.m.-4 p.m., Camden County Museum. A HoliPHOTO An exciting show for Wedding all ages, Theater in Versailles. The “Hillbilly ROTARY’S SEPTEMBER 12Market Place will be held GARAGE SALE with the parade WINTERFEST starting at 1 p.m. Anyone is welday with craft booths, SEPTEMBER 11 & 12 watch as planes perform tricks Play” will be performed. Adult tickets are $10 in Margaritaville Resort, 5:30 p.m. needed. The 25th 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Camden County come to enter theLake parade. Registration vendors, Christmas gifts and other items will air and see vintage student andthe $527 for children 3-18. aircraft. Ozark Daybreak be variety At annual the endLake of the parade the ElksRotary lodge will will be FOR FEBRUARY 26 & 27 Museum. Vendors with afor FEBRUARY be LIFE for sale. RELAY HILLBILLY FAIR www.lakeoftheozarksairshow. www.theroyaltheatre.com held with the themeand “Then and Now.”6-10 There of items for sale will be set up serving free hot dogs drinks. 573-346-7191 p.m., Big Surf Waterpark. Friday 4-11 p.m. andsilent Saturday 9 com will be a live and auction, cash bar at during the Indoor Garage Sale 573–348-3798, 573-552-2901 Theand Tri-County Relay for Life will HOME/LIFESTYLE EXPO POLAR PLUNGE a.m.-11 p.m., Laurie entertainment by Fairgrounds. DJ Kyle. NOVEMBER 20-JAN & Market Place. Admission free. host the firstDINNER annual Crusin’ toSeasons, 3-7 p.m. Friday & 9 Lodge of Public Beach #2, 22p.m. The annual Polar & Four SHOW The636-346-5086 51st Hillbillyor Fair includes www.daybreakrotary.org Lunch available for donation. NOVEMBER 11-21 Fight Cancer7:30 event. There will a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. The Home, Business & Plunge willSEPTEMBER be held at the 13 Lake of the Ozarks p.m., Seven Springs Winery. Curtain live bands, a circus, exotic zoo, 573-346-7191 or www.camdenbe raffle tickets sold for prizes, Lifestyle Expo will be held in the Campana State Park #2 in Osage Beach. Plungers jump Call Theatre will present a speakeasy dinner LIGHT PARK kids’ games, clowns, KIDS’ FISHING DERBY FEBRUARY 21 face paintcountymuseum.org door prizes, and foodHall. andAdrinks, andRoaring wide“The range of products services into Laurie the Lake at 2 p.m. with the parade of show, the 20s, Aand Modern GALA OF TREES 5-9 p.m., Fairgrounds. Drive through the ing, a carnival, contests and 12-3 p.m., Captain Ron’s. The more. Registration free. willisCome be on dressed display from vendors. costumes happening beforehand. Participants Twist.” in your favorite 20s attire Daily, Wobbly Boots. Bid on a decorated ChristLaurie Enchanted Village of Lights holiday light other games. The parade will Chamber of Com-a 573-216-9256for or aTri-County WEDDING EXPO LAKETickets AIRSHOW www.camdentonchamber.com/ atLake leastWest 10 years old chance toRelay win best dressed. are mas treeator10wreath during the Gala of Trees. park must to seebe animated displays andand an raise array be held a.m. Saturday. The merce hosts this free eventraised for for Life on Facebook Lodge of FourtoSeasons, 12-3 p.m. The Lake All day, Camdenton Memorial home-business-lake-living-expo minimum of $75 by event day. Money $39/person. Doors open at 5:45 p.m., dinner Proceeds going Lake area children’s charities. of festive lights. Held each night during the theme is “Hillbillies Gone Hog kids ages 4-14. of the Ozarks Wedding Expo will be held in Lake Regional Airport. Show acts goes to Special Olympics Missouri. The theme served at 6:30 p.m. Opening day (Nov. 11) happy hour tickets are $20. season. Donations are accepted. Wold!” or www.lakewestthe Granada Room. Vendors, foodare tastings, a and vendors will be set up during this year is573-374-5500 “Jurassic Times Call for Jurassic 573-317-0100, www.sevenspringswinery.com/ Opening night (Nov. 12) Gala tickets A$25. www.cityoflaurie.com/ www.cityoflaurie.com fashion show, and prizes will be available. the Lake of the Ozarks Airshow. Plungers.” chamber.com events 217-779-2768 enchanted-village-of-lights www.getmarriedatthelake.com/wedding-expo www.somo.org
January
February
42 144
LAKE LAKELIFESTYLES LIFESTYLES////NOVEMBER/DECEMBER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 2020
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
45
PEOPLE IN PLACES
Veterans Parade
NOVEMBER 7 @ OSAGE BEACH
The 7th annual Veterans Day parade gives the community a chance to show their appreciation to those who have served in the military.
1
GEORGE DENNY PHOTOS
2
3
6
4
5 7
10
46
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
8
1. Michelle Thomson, Vicki Lloyd, Fred Catcott 2. Sidney Pearson, John Fredrickson, Clay Bernhard, Dylan Dawson, Nathan West, Seth McIntosh 3. Trey Scott, Chris Twitchell 4. Mike Hamerstone, Xander and Axel Benedict, Heather Conner 5. Captain David Radlund, Matt Jones, Jacob Schwartze 6. Randy Gross, Bob May 7. Rudy Willingham, Kathy Needham 8. Kelly Bramley, Baby Evelyn Kiss, Rick Bramley 9. Raneen Olberding, Chrissi Kramper, Theresa Hoelsher 10. Dave Dulley, Jeff Fadiga
9
Gala of Trees
PEOPLE IN PLACES NOVEMBER 11-21 @ WOBBLY BOOTS
Beautifully-decorated trees and wreaths were available during a silent auction to benefit children’s charities in the Lake area.
1
GEORGE DENNY PHOTOS
2
3
4
5
7
8
10
6
9
1, Karen Iverson, Susie Danforth 2. Greg Goodwin, Mary Kay Miller 3. Michelle Curry, Deb Duffe 4. Amanda Avants, Maranda Schierding 5. Missy Stroupe, Karen Lewis 6. Todd Bridges, Shawn Lang 7. Debbie Clayton, Dave Mast 8. Christian Blood, Ken Kuenzie, Barbara Bunch, Dennis Klautzer 9. Kellie Schuman, Jordon Shackelford 10. Jeanette Bizer, Alan Findlay
LAKENEWSONLINE.COM
47
PEOPLE IN PLACES
Party with a Purpose
NOVEMBER 14 @ MARGARITAVILLE LAKE RESORT
An evening of dinner, dancing and entertainment raised money for Wonderland Camp, providing programs for children and adults with disabilities.
GEORGE DENNY PHOTOS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 1. Spencer Wilson, Stephanie Dehner, Adam Maher 2. Jill Wilke, Mike Clayton 3. Tim and Heather Wellendorf, Lori and Jeff Rice 4. Jeff and Michelle Rogers 5. Melissa and Bil Mackay 6. Chris and Alane Colter 7. Kyle Miller, Shea McGinnitey 8. Kellie and David Atkins 9. Rebekah and Randy Frost 10. George and Dorothy Peter 48
LAKE LIFESTYLES // JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021