Cover Story

Isaac Phillips quit his job as a supervisor to inmate crews at a jail in Utah to move to the Midwest to begin life as a farmer. He did this through farm matchmaking, which pairs up two generations, so that aspiring young farmers don't have to dig themselves into a hole of debt to start their dream.

As the recession deepens, the caseload at the Boone County Courthouse has climbed thanks to sharp increases in consumer debt and related filings. These economic woes aren't just straining the community, they're straining the courts.

Despite his faith in God, Joseph Snow has no desire to go to heaven just yet. He says he has work left to do here, and hospice volunteers are making sure he can comfortably continue working in his garden.

The state program is intended to help rehabilitate inmates to re-enter society when their sentances end. It allows the inmates to have a paying job while producing something useful for the program.

An extensive background of Steven Starr.

Steven Starr, MU graduate and nuclear weapons expert, is passionate about changing the world. He has been invited to speak at numerous United Nations panels and has made presentations all over the globe about the issue of nuclear arms.

The live-in shelter is available for 16- to 21-year-olds who have struggled living on their own. The program tries to provide its residents with the tools they need to be successful. Residents and former residents share their stories about their lives before, during and after their time at the house.

Two MU doctors are researching a new type of artificial knee surgeries, testing the technique that could be beneficial for humans on replacement knees and hips for dogs.

City officials are debating the proper use of federal funds for the GetAbout Columbia pilot project. While some think education and promotion are the most logical priorities, other councilmembers say infrastructure projects are most essential.

Funding for GetAbout Columbia has focused 14 percent, or about $3 million, on promotion and education over the past 18 months. With the exception of elementary school programs, bike safety programs have seen little participation.

After a long and tawdry history, women's roller derby is making a national comeback. The CoMo Derby Dames take to the rink for exercise, competition, entertainment and a friendship they don't find anywhere else.

The Honor Flight program strives to send as many World War II veterans as possible to the World War II National Memorial, recognizing that their numbers are dwindling quickly.

Family members of the World War II veterans surprised them with letters delivered during a "mail call" on the return flight from Washington. Bob Kennish said the letters expressed an appreciation to all veterans who served the U.S.

Local doctor Lee Meyers has climbed mountains on six continents and served as the doctor for three Everest expeditions.

After working through job hopping, failed marriages and alcoholism, Charles Carter has become a friendly, reliable fixture in Columbia and is an inspiration to many who are struggling.

Pastor Heather McCain wants the new congregation to focus on hospitality, spirituality, discipleship, environmental sustainability, compassion, justice and creativity.

The church celebrated its "launch" Feb. 8. It is the first church planted in the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri in more than 20 years. The Rev. Heather McCain, church planter and pastor, hopes the Easter service brings its congregants and newcomers together in the spirit of joy for Christ's resurrection. 

Even though the budget for MU might shrink in the next few years, the university is still planning for a steady increase in students.