J V.

Safe Pets Trust

I hate leaving my pets at home when I travel but now I feel comfortable leaving them in the care of this service. They also bring in mail and help make the house secure when I'm away. My pets are so much more well-adjusted when I get home than when I would board them or leave a big bowl of food for a long weekend.

PROS: great service, nice and reliable staff, reasonable prices
CONS:

Jim's Bike & Key Shop

Jim's Bike & Key Shop is small but they do have a small inventory of new and used bikes available. They have repaired bikes for us and are quick, reasonable and do solid work. They also make most any kind of key while you wait and will come to your home to repair a lock. Friendly, good service.

PROS: knowledgeable, reasonable, friendly
CONS:

Ogden G Michael Dds

Dr. Odgen is a perfectionist and that's what you want in a dentist. He is also pain-free. His staff are very nice and well-trained. Equipment and techniques are current and cutting edge. He's been serving Columbia clients for more than 25 years and he has many loyal patients. I'd hate to ever have to switch dentists.

PROS: no pain, high-tech, nice staff, clean, watch birds while in the chair
CONS:

Horton Animal Hospital-Central

We've been taking our pets to Horton's on I-70 Drive for more than 30 years. They truly care about the pets and are good about communicating when a pet is in their care, even phoning us at home to see how a pet is doing after release from an illness or post-surgery.

PROS: caring, educated staff; keep current on technologies and meds
CONS: no afterhour emergency services; vets are sold on Science Diet products

Mizzou Credit Union

I've been a member of the Mizzou Credit Union since it opened in Columbia in the 80s. I've taken advantage of their checking, savings, safe deposit box, CDs, IRA, credit card and auto loan services. Interest rates are competitive. Online services are easy to access. Staff are knowledgeable and friendly. I'd hate to ever have to return to a traditional bank.

PROS: good range of products, low or no fees; online access; helpful staff
CONS: no business accounts available so far

Peak Performance Physical

I've had the occasion to visit Peak for several situations in the past five years and they have always helped me. I've found that they are better at diagnosing the exact problem than most doctors and certainly spend more time. The atmosphere in the large therapy room is comfortable and all of the therapists seem to have a common goal: to help people feel better. I wouldn't want to go anywhere else when I need PT.

PROS: friendly, well trained staff; comfortable atmosphere; clean
CONS:

Clip Joint

The Clip Joint has first rate ambiance and decorations but never a "snobby" feel to it. Staff are friendly and do what you want them to ... not pushing styles or products. Prices are reasonable.

Mutrux Automotive LLC

Gas station always has prices a penny less than everywhere else in town. Friendly staff will pump the gas for you (same price; you may tip if you want). Includes shop that performs auto repairs, inspections, etc. Mutrux runs an intelligent shop, reasonable prices and I trust them. Free kid and dog treats at the pumps. Good selection of snacks inside for everyone. Great station!

PROS: prices, friendly and honest staff, treats
CONS: a little out of my way but worth it