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NOVEMBER 2014 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 1NOVEMBER 2014

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a litt le slice of heaven

making sorghumsorghum

teaching the old ways to a new

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a litt le slice of heavenTHE PERFECT ENDING TO ANY MEAL

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2 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2014

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NOVEMBER 2014 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 3

7 come home to mt. vernon CENTER STREET SUITES

13 going my own way

15 He set me free

21 healthy connection COMMIT TO SUCCESS

22 making sorghum TEACHING THE OLD WAYS TO A NEW GENERATION

28 five thanksgiving crafts for your kids

30 Local author spotlight HUNTING: MORE THAN A SPORT

33 crafts for an elegant thanksgiving centerpiece

39 evergreen BUILDING MEMORIES ONE CHRISTMAS AT A TIME

44 Localista layne’s list FIVE FAVORITE READS: CURL UP WITH A GOOD BOOK

46 the gift that gives twice CHARITABLE GIVING THROUGH THE ALTERNATIVE GIFT FAIR

48 livin’ the life in colorado

50 grand tour of europe A TRAVELOGUE BY MONETT’S NORMA CLINTON

54 a little slice of heaven THE PERFECT ENDING TO ANY MEAL

57 bottles and brews THANKSGIVING DAY PAIRINGS

CONNECTION MAGAZINE

November 2014

contents:

Ingredients1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened2 cups canned pumpkin, mashed1 cup sugar1/4 teaspoon salt1 egg plus 2 egg yolks, slightly beaten

1 cup half-and-half1/4 cup (1/2 stick) melted butter1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, optional1 piece pre-made pie doughWhipped cream, for topping

InstructionsPreheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place one piece of pre-made pie dough into a 9-inch pie pan. Put the pie shell back into the freezer for one hour to firm up. Fit a piece of aluminum foil to cover the inside of the shell completely. Fill the shell up to the edges with pie weights or dried beans and place it in the oven. Bake for 10 minutes, remove the foil and pie weights and bake for another 10 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer. Add the pumpkin and beat until combined. Add the sugar and salt, and beat until combined. Add the eggs mixed with the yolks, half-and-half, and melted butter, and beat until combined. Finally, add the vanilla, cinnamon and ginger and beat until incorporated. Pour the filling into the warm prepared pie crust and bake for 50 minutes, or until the center is set. Cool to room temperature. Cut into slices and top each piece with a generous amount of whipped cream.

traditional pumpkin pie

see more great pie recipes on page 54


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Darlene WiermanSheila Harris

Susan FunkhouserPam Wormington

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As we settle into November, it is time to think about winter and what lies ahead. I keep asking, “Is it going to be as cold as last winter?” I guess I think someone knows. Truth is, no one knows. We can all take a stab at making a good guess,

or at least hoping this winter won’t be quite as cold as the last. I can ask my mom what Doug Heady (from KOAM-7) says in his long-range forecast, or I can crack open a persimmon seed to see if there’s a spoon predicting large snows, or a knife predicting cutting winds. One of my boys saw a brown caterpillar the other day and we all celebrated! That must mean it’s going to be a mild winter, right? But, a friend told me a few weeks ago that a deer he got had a thick layer of fat – and that means a cold winter. Oh no. Well, no use in wondering or worrying. Winter is coming and being prepared, and bundling up, will get us through – no matter what. Some things are just out of our hands. I admire those that can ride the storm and navigate through circumstances that are beyond their control. This month, Susan Funkhouser shares Alvin Schad’s story of living through the Korean War as a POW. Through his days and nights in the hands of Chinese soldiers, I am sure that Alvin, and his family, wondered if he would ever live through it. I am honored that Alvin allowed Connection to share his story. I appreciated reading it, and being reminded of the sacrifices our soldiers make, and the burdens they willingly bear. Thanksgiving is coming. What is better than a day set aside to enjoy good food with family and friends, and think about all of our blessings? Big and small, there are things we all can be thankful for. I remember when my sons were little, we would do crafts similar to the ones that Meagan shares in this months magazine. It’s never too soon to teach thankfulness – even if it’s being thankful for family pets and fruit roll-ups. I am thankful for my family and friends, and my health and home, all of which I count as blessings from God. Lisa Schlichtman, the previous editor (and creator) of Connection, has made a home in Steamboat Springs, Col., which puts her and Mike closer to their sons and family. Because many of you ask about Lisa, I asked her to write a letter to you all, to let us know how she is doing. Look for it on page 48 along with some family photos. Thank you, Lisa – It’s great to hear from you. May you continue to enjoy the beauty of your new surroundings, but also remain fond of the Ozarks and know that you are missed. Thank you, too, for giving me the opportunity to share with the community I love through Connection. What the future holds for each one of us, only God knows. Let’s ride through the winter weather, and the months and years before us together. Thinking of you all and wishing you a peaceful and blessed Thanksgiving.

editor’s note

Take care now,

Sherry Tucker


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The old pink house by the cemetery in Mt. Vernon is more than

a historic structure. There’s a character to it—almost a personality—that draws people in and keeps them coming back. “I think the house likes people in it,” says manager Donna Neel. “It likes people to be happy in it.”

come hometo mt. vernon

CENTER STREET SUITESSTORY BY KATHY TEEL PHOTOS BY ROB LOTUFO


Center Street Suites is owned by Alice Phillips, who lives out of state, but it is cared for by Donna Neel and her husband Randy, who live on the property and care for it and its guests. The house has been a family home, a funeral home, and years ago, a bed and breakfast by the name of Daniel’s Place. Alice Phillips bought it in 2009 and with the Neels’ help, polished it up and opened it up for guests. “We had a lot of cleaning to do!” Donna remembers. “The house was in good shape, but there are five chandeliers! Every chandelier takes nearly all day to clean.”

off the beaten path Mt. Vernon is a small town, but it’s strategically located on I-44, and there are three hotels right there off the main exit into town. So what brings people into the center of town, off the business loop and deep into the residential neighborhood, just to stay at a bed-and-breakfast? Apparently, it’s the online reviews. “I didn’t know those online reviews mattered so much,” Donna says. “But for the past several years, people come in and say they read a good review about our house, or maybe the cooking, or how they liked the location. Then they leave a good review and that brings more people in.”

Their hard work paid off. Center Street Suites is now a warm, welcoming home away from home for everyone from travelers just passing through to regulars who come back several times a year. Donna has stories about family members with loved ones going through rehabilitation at the MRC, doctors on rotation between VA hospitals, business travelers with work in the area, and visitors coming into town for family reunions, weddings, funerals, or just on their way to somewhere else. “It feels like coming home,” Donna says. “That’s what people always tell me.”

Sites like Trip Advisor can make or break a bed-and-breakfast, hotel, restaurant, or other travel-related businesses. People have always talked to each other, and word of mouth has always been the best way to find a new place to stay, but now word of mouth is being shared online by people who will never meet. They all have good things to say about Center Street Suites. “Donna is a wonderful hostess and amazing cook,” says one reviewer who was in town for business. “If I were ever in the area again I would certainly stay here again.” “Donna received our family and just made us feel so welcome,” writes another. “We were beyond blessed.” “I just try to make people feel at home,” Donna says. “I like to take care of people, and I like to cook. I guess people really like that.”


special occasionsApple Butter Makin’ Days is Mt.

Vernon’s fall festival, and during this time, the town of 4,500 swells to 10 or 12 thousand. Center Suite Streets is booked for this October festival, months in advance, since it’s a popular place to stay and is located only a block from the square where the festivities are held. But, the house also hosts many other special occasions as well. “The staircase is probably the most distinctive feature of the house,” Donna says. “Everybody remembers it and wants to get their picture taken on it.” The staircase, along with the two Italian marble fireplaces, were original elements of the house, and were imported from Europe when the house was built. They have provided the background for

weddings, proms, birthdays, funerals, and just fun photographs. “I’ve had brides get ready upstairs and then walk down the stairs on their fathers’ arms,” Donna explains. “We’ve held weddings inside, in front of the fireplaces, and outside on the porch, with the guests seated on the lawn. The pictures always turn out so beautiful.” Donna, who is a licensed wedding officiant, even offers an elopement package—guests can get their wedding, honeymoon, and a hearty breakfast all for one price. “It’s not just weddings, though,” she says. “We have whole families come and stay when a family member dies. They’re sad, but the house brings them comfort. I just try to make sure they have everything they need.”

home cooking Center Street Suites is also building a reputation for its home-style cooking. “My husband is a genius on the grill,” Donna says. “Randy will grill up the sausages, or really whatever people want. I take care of the pancakes.” Donna can make almost any kind of pancake you can think of, and if you’re there on a Saturday morning, you are treated to a pancake parade. That usually includes homemade plain, pumpkin, apple butter, and blueberry pancakes—all of which are loved by guests. In some cases, it’s the pancakes themselves that bring people back.


“Pancakes are my specialty,” Donna acknowledges, “but there are other things I like to make as well. I made strawberry cheesecake French toast recently—that was pretty good. I had someone who couldn’t eat gluten, so I made them gluten-free pancakes, and they turned out just as good as the regular kind. “We’re not fancy here,” Donna continues. “The house is beautiful, but

the food is just good old-fashioned country food. People like that, though. They can’t get that in a lot of other places.” In addition to her famous pancakes, Donna also makes her own jams and jellies. “I serve them with breakfast, and then people end up leaving with three or four jars of them. I just use good, natural ingredients, and people love them.”

a house with a purpose Center Street Suites was once a funeral home, and there are stories of strange noises, orbs, and cold spots. Some legends say that a young girl or a couple are sometimes seen and heard in the rooms or the halls. But that doesn’t stop guests from enjoying the house and the grounds. They even walk around in the cemetery behind the house, enjoying the peace and taking pictures of the old weathered tombstones.

“It’s fun to tell stories,” Donna acknowledges, “but honestly, I’ve never seen or heard anything. I’ve never felt scared here, even when I’m walking around in the pitch black at night.” A house that’s a century and a half old is bound to make some creaks and sounds, but the overwhelming sense Donna and her guests feel in the old pink house is warmth, safety, and belonging. “I want the house to have a purpose,” Donna says. “I want people to feel comfortable and cared for. This old house thrives on laughter, happiness, and life.” To make reservations at Center Street Suites, call Donna and Randy Neel at 417-461-5882, or visit their website at centerstreetsuites.com. n


giving thanksFor the hay and the corn and the wheat that is reaped,For the labor well done, and the barns that are heaped,

For the sun and the dew and the sweet honeycomb,For the rose and the song and the harvest brought home -

Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

For the trade and the skill and the wealth in our land,For the cunning and strength of the workingman’s hand,

For the good that our artists and poets have taught,For the friendship that hope and affection have brought -

Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

For the homes that with purest affection are blest,For the season of plenty and well-deserved rest,For our country extending from sea unto sea;

The land that is known as the “Land of the Free” -Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

author unknown

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I don’t necessarily subscribe to the adage that rules are made to be broken; however, I feel that questioning them is

sometimes appropriate. And sometimes, too, allowances should be made for honest mistakes in interpretation. The sign on the wall above the track at the Monett YMCA is a simple case in point. When I feel the hounds of morbidity nipping at my heels, I often take to the “Y” for some exercise. A brisk mix of walking and running is always good for whatever I imagine may be ailing me. This particular day, I ascended the stairs to discover I had the track to myself, so it was left up to me to determine the direction I should pursue. The sign on the wall indicated that one should walk counter-clockwise on even days, and clockwise on odd ones. I opted not to unduly torment myself with indecision and briskly set out walking in a counter-clockwise direction. After all, it was Tuesday. Everybody knows Tuesdays are even days. Provided, of course, that Sunday is the fi rst day of the week, and as such, is an even day. I was well into my stride, with heart rate increased, when the second walker arrived on the scene. With no inclination to question, she fell in behind me in an orderly fashion. When the third walker arrived, though, I knew we had a problem. As she studied the sign on the wall adjudicating the proper course for the day, she looked pointedly across the room at the direction my track partner and I were pursuing. Clearly, she believed we were in error. Her entire demeanor took upon itself a sense of wounded propriety coupled with a foreboding aura of determination to purge us of our wrongdoing. I had seen that look before, never followed by anything pleasant. Setting off in the opposing clockwise direction, probably the correct one (in her estimation), she stopped my co-

trackee fi rst. From

my vantage point on the far side of the room, I saw her point fi rst at the sign, then toward what she obviously considered my ongoing transgression. The young lady apparently had no taste for contention and simply exited the track. I, however, had no intention of breaking my stride. Predictably, when I came face-to-face with the track law enforcer, she attempted to convert me, too, to the right course of action. Dedicated to maintaining my pace, however, I continued steadfastly on my self-appointed way, though I did grant her one small concession. I moved to the outside of the track, so that as we met in opposing directions, our paths would not collide. She did me a favor, really. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t have gone that extra mile, when my original intention was to stop far short of it. Plumbing the murky depths of her totalitarian tendencies, however, became a challenge I couldn’t refuse. My fi shing expedition paid off as more fl otsam soon rose to the surface. She increased her pace from a walk to a run and moved over to my outside lane, per the instructions of yet another sign on the wall. Collision was inevitable if one of us didn’t give way. A childish game of chicken was being enacted on a track designed for adults. As I met her, I veered to the left and continued on my way, with her stern warning of my latest offense ringing in my ear. When I later related the story to my coworkers, one of them mused, “I’m not really sure how they decide which days are odd and which ones are even. Maybe it has something to do with whether the date is an odd or even number.”

two people, or religions, or nations, who obviously have a vested interested in occupying the same air space, are unable to understand the other’s perspective, pride often steps in and “my way, or the highway,” becomes the rule of the day. Chances are, if I would have explained my logic, twisted though it was, to the lady who joined me on the track that day, she would have better understood my position, as I would have hers. I might even have turned around. n

My face reddened as my horizons expanded. It seemed obvious, suddenly, that she was correct. The date was the 5th. I wasn’t sure why I hadn’t figured that out myself. After giving the incident some thought, I realized that on a much larger scale, this is the stuff wars are made of. Sadly, when

BY SHEILA HARRIS

going my own way

Sheila is an avid reader, compulsive gardener and a regular contributor to Connection Magazine. She lives in Purdy with her fat cat, Mr. Perkins.


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As I listened to this beautiful prayer being offered by the Tom Wolfe Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post at Monett’s South Park during this year’s Prisoner of War and Missing in Action ceremony, I must admit my eyes were not closed and my head was not bowed. Instead, I gazed across the crowd at my former neighbor of four years, Alvin Schad. During the introduction of honored guests at the ceremony, I learned a

secret about this man I thought I knew quite well. Alvin was a prisoner of war in Korea.

In the coming days I debated about asking Alvin for an interview. I sought the advice of his family and friends, all of whom replied, “He doesn’t talk about it, but you should ask.” I didn’t want to dredge up painful memories for a beloved man who sacrifi ced so much for so many, but heroes’ stories should be shared, so I picked up the

phone. After chatting awhile I asked Alvin if he would be willing to tell me his story. He grew quiet and then responded with the highest honor I ever expect to receive. “I never talk about it . . . but I think maybe I could talk to you.” He invited me to his home, where he shared with me the darkest days of his life, when urgent and desperate prayers made their way to the heart of a Heavenly Father who heard and answered.

Almighty God, we praise Thee, we glorify

Thee and we thank Thee for sparing us

from the grasp of our enemies. Grant

us full understanding of the suffering being

endured by our comrades who are being held

as prisoners of war or are still missing. We ask

Thy blessings upon them, that whatever comforts

they are denied, whatever evil they must endure

may rebound to their everlasting happiness.

Especially do we seek Thy support for their loved

ones. May Thy grace be with them, always giving

them the strength to do their daily tasks and the

courage to meet the problems of life. We pray

for those missing comrades who have been called

to Thy bosom that whatever justice they have

been denied in this life has been granted them a

hundredfold. Amen.

A P R AY E R F O R T H E P R I S O N E R S

HE SET ME free

BY SUSAN FUNKHOUSER

ALVIN IN HIS ARMY UNIFORM.


The Soviet-supported North Korean People’s Army crossed the 38th parallel and invaded the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on June 25, 1950, in what would be deemed the fi rst military action of the Cold War. The United States entered the confl ict soon thereafter, in response to an earlier National Security Council report, which recommended the use of military force to, “contain communist expansion.” Alvin Schad received his draft notice in late 1950 and began his military service in the United States Army on December 1. Before he left Barry County, Alvin’s brother,

Adolph, gave him a silver dollar and a request. “Bring this back home to me.”

Alvin noted, “I did my basic training in Ft. Leonard Wood and after a 10-day furlough, I was shipped to Korea.” During the two-week voyage, Alvin and his fellow soldiers heard lectures about what to expect in the war zone. “They told us, ‘Whatever you do, don’t eat the food. They use human waste for fertilizer.’” Upon docking in Pusan, Korea, the troops discovered the reality of the messages they heard. “It was the dirtiest, fi lthiest place I ever saw. It was so hot. There were

fl ies everywhere. It was a mess.” In fact, Korea had just experienced the driest, hottest season on record, and the ensuing water shortage forced United States soldiers to drink water from rice paddies, contaminated with fertilizer made from human waste. Disease ran rampant, and the death toll was enormous. However, Alvin and his company didn’t get much time to adjust to the stench. “We weren’t there very long before the Chinese overran us. You were either killed or captured,” he related, a catch in his voice and tears forming in his eyes. “I was captured.”

A P R AY E R F O R S A F E R E T U R N

A P R AY E R F O R A M I R A C L E

Alvin and his fellow prisoners of war were taken to an old village in North Korea. “I don’t know exactly where we were, but it was about as far north in Korea as you could go.”

Back home in Barry County, Alvin’s family and friends didn’t know where he was, either. As the Schads prepared to celebrate Independence Day 1951, a letter arrived in the mail, informing Alvin’s loved ones that he was missing in action. Alvin’s fi rst cousin, Ralph Schallert recalled, “It was awful. It was just like you were going to a funeral.” Only 9 years old at the time, Ralph vividly remembers the hopelessness felt by the entire community. “We didn’t expect him to make it back.” Still, they prayed for a miracle . . . and waited.

As family and friends offered up desperate pleas to God, Alvin and his fellow soldiers tried to adjust to life in captivity.

“They marched us by night and kept us hidden during the day until we reached the POW camp. We were never fenced in. We could’ve walked away at any time, but there was no place to go that you wouldn’t run into the Chinese.” Alvin recalls being hungry. “Rice was about all we got to eat.” Alvin worked in the prison kitchen to escape boredom. “I did it just to have something to do. We steamed bread. It’s not very good.” Although Alvin had slightly more food than others because of his job as a cook he noted, “There was never enough to eat.” He often remembered the admonitions he received about not eating the food in Korea and the reason behind them. “I ate the food, and I made it. When you’re hungry you’ll eat anything.” Approximately 10 prisoners of war slept on the fl oor in a small room each night. “I used my combat boots for a pillow.”

A P R AY E R F O R R E S C U E

Of the nearly four months Alvin’s loved ones waited for word of his fate, Alvin’s sister, Naomi Ruth Schad Eggerman noted, “Until October we didn’t know if he was dead or alive. That was the worst stretch. It was really hard on my dad. I don’t know how many nights he went to bed and cried himself to sleep.” Finally, Alvin’s family received notifi cation that he was alive, but a prisoner of war. Their prayers for a miracle had been answered. Alvin remembered, “My uncle, Earl Rehwinkle told me, ‘That was God’s way of protecting you. You got

captured.’” After praising God that Alvin was alive, his loved ones began asking the Lord for his rescue and return. Naomi Ruth, remembered, “Psalm 121 was one of our favorite prayers on his behalf. ‘He will not suffer thy foot to be moved. He that keepeth thee will not slumber.’”

Alvin and the other prisoners spent much of their time writing letters home and reading the precious few they received. “I wrote quite a few letters. I never got to say what I wanted; I wrote what I was allowed to say because I wanted the letters to be

delivered.” Alvin’s loved ones sensed that not all the sentiments in the letters they received from him were his. Naomi Ruth recalled, “One of the letters we got was typewritten. It said, ‘After I was captured I was treated very good by the Chinese soldiers. We were treated as friends, and not as enemies.’ We knew the things he was saying weren’t his words.” The censored material also contained a plea for the family to write Congress and the President of the United States, telling them that the war against North Korea was wrong. However,


in the midst of the propaganda and outright lies inserted by his captors, Alvin managed to deliver a heartfelt postscript. “Don’t worry about me. I’m trusting in God and am assured that He is with me and also with you.”

Alvin was also the victim of censorship on the receiving end of the mail. “I got a few letters from home, but not near as many as people said they wrote.” Alvin’s wife, Maxine, refl ected, “I don’t think they let him have all the letters. We were always encouraged, ‘Write to Alvin. Write to Alvin. He wants mail.’ We have one letter that he wrote home that said, ‘I’m not getting any letters.’” Alvin observed, “I’m surprised they let me have any.”

Alvin Schad spent 27 long months in captivity. “We could hear our planes fl ying over us. They did a lot of strafi ng. That isn’t so good when you’re on the wrong side of it. The worst part, though, was being there and not knowing when or if you would ever get out. I prayed that I’d get out of there alive and get home.”

I asked Alvin what sustained him through his terrible ordeal. Overwhelmed with emotion he whispered, “My faith in God. It’s the one thing that kept me going. We knew he was with us.” Maxine added, “We grew up studying the Bible in Purdy. Alvin told somebody that if he hadn’t had that background he would’ve never made it.” Many of his fellow prisoners of war

didn’t. Approximately 40 percent of United States Prisoners of War in Korea died in captivity.

Alvin pointed to a particular passage of Scripture that gave him strength and comfort during his imprisonment. “My mom died when I was just 11 years old. I remember them reading, ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9, KJV)’ I always thought about that. It helped, even though I didn’t understand what was happening to me.”

After over two years of negotiations the Korean War adversaries signed an Armistice bringing a fragile peace to the area on July 27, 1953. Alvin recalled, “In August of that year they told us about a cease fi re, but we didn’t believe them. A few weeks later they started moving us out, but we still didn’t believe it. When we got to Pyongyang and saw our U.S. troops on the other side . . .” He paused, unable to speak. Finally, in a voice choked with 61 years of emotion he continued. “Then we knew it was real.”

Alvin felt no animosity toward his Chinese captors following his release. “I don’t hold any grudge against them. We were all sent there; we didn’t have a choice.”

Alvin spent a few days at Camp Stoneman in California. Then he fl ew to Kansas City and then on to Joplin, where his parents met him. “It was such a good feeling to see them. I can’t really explain it.” Naomi Ruth and the rest of the family met Alvin in Pierce City. “There were lots of hugs and tears. We didn’t know hardly what to say. He looked wonderful to us!”

Alvin returned to a hero’s welcome in Barry County. “Both sides of Broadway were packed with people. They drove me in a parade down the street in the back of a Pontiac convertible. Joe Thomas was the driver. Mayor L. G. Jones rode in the passenger seat, and my parents rode in the back. It was quite a deal.”

Ralph Schallert noted that family and friends headed to their home church, Stones Prairie Lutheran, to enjoy a big meal and a joyous reunion. “It was a festive atmosphere.” Back home at last, Alvin made good on his promise and handed his brother the silver dollar he’d kept hidden in his boot during his long years of captivity.

A P R AY E R F O R P E A C E

ALVIN AND HIS WIFE, MAXINE, IN FRONT OF THEIR HOME IN MONETT.


“Always pray to have eyes that see the best in people, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses faith in God.” I read that prayer recently, and my thoughts instantly turned to Alvin. After fi ghting for his country

and his freedom, Alvin Schad returned home to fi ght to forget. He won that fi nal battle, successfully forgiving his enemies and closing the door on the most diffi cult years of his life. “Everybody deals with it differently. I just wanted to move on and

enjoy life. I certainly appreciate home more than I did before Korea. So many prayers went up for me.” With a wistful expression and a quiet sigh he added, “I don’t know if I’m a better person because of Korea, but I’m a better believer. I know that.” n

A F I N A L P R AY E R

For more information on Shoeboxes for Soldiers, please visit www.shoeboxes4soldiers.com. All facts concerning the Korean War were taken from www.history.com/topics/south-korea

Of the token Maxine noted, “I think it helped bring him back . . . the promise he made to his brother.”

Safe at home, Alvin and his loved ones prayed for peace in his heart and life. “I didn’t have much trouble adjusting. A lot of other POWs had anxiety, but I just tried to forget about what I’d gone through and look to something better.”

Alvin pursued a peaceful and happy life with fi erce determination. “When I fi rst returned home, I just enjoyed being alive. I bought a new car – a 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air.”

Alvin worked for 10 years at the Monett Farmers’ Exchange, where he met a pretty bookkeeper who stole his heart. Alvin married Jean Weber in 1955. The couple welcomed two children, Dennis and Barbara, into their family. They lived happily together for almost 50 years, until Jean’s death in 2004. “I lived on the farm by myself until January of 2007, when I called Maxine up and said, ‘How about I take you to lunch one Sunday?’” Maxine, whose husband died the year after Jean passed, wasn’t quite ready and declined the invitation. However, a few Sundays later Alvin saw her

at church, and she said, “You can stop by the house if you want to.” Alvin noted, “That was in January. We got married in June. We sold the Purdy farm and bought a house in Monett, and here we are; happy as larks!”

Alvin and Maxine got involved with the Shoeboxes for Soldiers campaign through Alvin’s cousin about fi ve years ago. Each year, the couple helps pack boxes sent to our troops overseas. “One year we fi lled over 900 boxes! We went to Springfi eld one year and helped load the boxes onto a helicopter.” Alvin encloses a personal note in each box, encouraging his fellow comrades to keep the faith. They often write back to him. Maxine shared, “We have a drawer full of emails and letters. It’s so neat to hear from them. They thank him and most remark about how much more he went through than they are.”

With Maxine’s assistance, Alvin recently applied to participate in Springfi eld’s next Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., scheduled to take place in Spring 2015. “I’m ready to go. I didn’t used to care anything about going, but I think I’m ready now. It will be a good, but hard, experience.”

ALVIN WITH THE PURDY HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR AT THIS YEAR’S PRISONER OF WAR AND MISSING IN

ACTION CEREMONY AT THE MONETT PARK.


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In the journey to becoming healthier, the biggest excuse that I hear is that there is not enough time or that “everyone

else was doing so-and-so” and success is hindered. It is crucial in making healthier lifestyle changes that you COMMIT to tools that will prepare you to meet obstacles that may slow you down. It was said by Winston Churchill that “He who fails to plan, plans to fail.” In using this motto, we can practice six simple tools that help us plan for our success.

CREATIVITY. Being creative with new foods and different forms of exercise can make healthy changes exciting and may even encourage nay-sayers to join your efforts. Don’t be afraid to try new things!

OBSTACLES. Prepare for obstacles. It is ok to PLAN AHEAD and it is OK to decline unhealthy options. Prepare and pack healthy foods if you are attending a function or an event where you anticipate unhealthy temptations. Remember, it is OK to say NO!

MANAGE YOUR TIME. PLAN movement into your day. Take your movement time as seriously as you would a business date or a favor for someone else. Make your time a number one priority.

MOTIVATE YOURSELF. It is ok to be proud of your accomplishments. We are bombarded with negative self-talk from ourselves and put downs from others. Take

Abby Tate is a wellness educator at Cox Monett Hospital and earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and Wellness degree from Missouri Southern State University. Her primary focus is on employee and community health. Abby is a Madd Dog spin instructor and enjoys teaching indoor cycling and dance aerobics. In her spare time, she enjoys playing music and spending time with her niece.

c.o.m.m.i.t. to successBY ABBY TATE

the time to remind yourself that you ARE worthy of healthy change and that you CAN meet your goals.

INSTIGATE CHANGE. Making changes in your home is the best place to start. Remove unhealthy options and replace them with healthier alternatives. It is much easier to make good choices when there is less temptation. Start practicing new habits and remove any items that revert you back to old habits.

TALK. Practice role playing responses to negative feedback around you. Practice declining unhealthy options or have a response ready for any questions that may arise. The more you practice asserting yourself, the more natural it will become.

With the choice to become healthier, it is important to plan for your success. Remember to COMMIT to yourself and your positive changes. n

HEALTHY CONNECTION


making sorghum

TEACHING THE OLD WAYS TO A NEW GENERATIONSTORY AND PHOTOS BY KATRINA HINE


Nothing in our modern dictionaries can describe the rush into the past that takes place once a year on the

farm of Maurice and Janice Mailes. Words cannot detail the sights, sounds or emotions that only tickle the mind and heart of those driving to the remote McDonald County farm to watch what could only be described as the true canvas of America. The weather seemed almost custom ordered with a cool breeze for a sunny September day as cars and trucks began to fill both sides of the dirt road. Ole-timey country music drifted over the hum of voices and laughter while family, friends and strangers begin to chop the cane from the one-acre plot that Maurice, he pronounces it Morris, plants just for this event. When the Maileses moved to their farm over 51 years ago, they were the young couple in the neighborhood, but as Janice puts it, “Now the pages of time

have turned and we’re the old-timers surrounded by young families.” Clearly, the impact on those younger neighbors has been a positive one, as several come to volunteer on this special day at the Mailes Farm. Maxwell Helm, one of those young neighbors, slowly moves heated water through the baffles to ensure that the stainless steel evaporator pans are warm. His four-year-old daughter, Audrey, peers over the edge, chattering with questions as he rhythmically draws the wooden paddle back and forth to move liquid down through the pan. Why do all this hard work, you might ask? “I’m just an old-timer and this is the way things were done,” Maurice said. He simply loves the old way of farming; it is no surprise that he decided to make sorghum the old-fashioned way. He bought an old press from Janice’s grandpa Jim Ritter and her uncle, Floyd Ritter, who used it on their farm. Janice admits that she never liked the smell of it while it was cooking but as a child would grab a stalk of cane to chew on from the pile. The day was designed to show the young folks how things were done many years ago. Over near the house, children were shelling and grinding corn, while others were making rope or pressing apples into sweet apple cider. All of the older grandchildren know how to operate the equipment, which runs on nothing but elbow grease. Janice explains that in the beginning mostly old-timers would come to watch and bring their empty Mason jars to get a sample of the amber liquid delicacy. “Back in their day there wasn’t much sugar, so they used sorghum instead,” Janice said. For years, Cecil Humburg, a former neighbor just east of the Mailes’ farm on Highway 43, would come up from Oklahoma to cook the cane juice down into sorghum. He came until he was about 91 years old; he had made sorghum all his life and enjoyed the whole process, but especially the cooking. A few years ago, he had just gotten out of the hospital and made the trip up to cook one last time, he passed away that following winter.

Maurice quickly points out that he could not take on this task without the help of his children and grandchildren. The couple have two boys, Kevin and his wife, Sherri, Cory and wife, Jo, and one daughter, Karla Boatright and her husband, Bruce, all of whom (plus the seven grandchildren) participate at some stage in the preparation for the big day. They also have two young great-grandchildren who they hope will grow to love the family tradition. Karla, who also has an outstanding voice, helps throughout the day

overseeing the sound equipment and taking the stage with Seneca music teacher, Michelle Whetzel, to belt out some crowd favorites. A trio of freelance men, Audrey Handle on fiddle, Tino Burnett and Bill Porter, both on guitar, travel over the Oklahoma line to bring tunes reminiscent of the era. The Mailes family makes preparations several days before the big day that has become routine for over 25 years now. They provide some of the food themselves, and Janice makes her homemade hot rolls. The couple estimate that between 150 – 300 people have attended each year since word spread. The magic of old fashion neighboring begins to emerge as the tables fill up with every homemade wonder you ever dreamed: homemade cinnamon rolls, pies, cake, cookies, corn casserole, macaroni and cheese, and salads to mention just a few.


The day starts early while it is still cool with the Mailes children and grandchildren chopping the cane and loading up pickup beds of the tall stalks that resemble milo. To get the process going, they hook the old Ford 601 Workmaster tractor up and it pops then chugs in a tight circle while volunteers jam cane stalks into the ancient press. The action crushes the stalk with ease, forcing the green juice down the trough and into a barrel. Once the barrel fills to a satisfactory level, men fill buckets, carrying them to a small container where it is strained into the cooker pan. Slowly the green juice moves out the spigot and into the pans and so begins the long hot process of stirring the fluid until it thickens to the consistency of honey. After they got a good start on the first batch, they unhook the tractor, bring over one of the dapple-grey Percheron mares owned by Tony Stussy and hook her to the singletree. He notes that she is not used to so many people since he only uses his team tinkering around on his farm. She manages

It roughly takes 10 gallons of raw sorghum juice to yield about one gallon of syrup. The process from start to finish takes the better part of the day but the rewards are more than the 30 to 35 jars of amber syrup. According to the Farm Flavor website, one tablespoon of sorghum syrup supplies all of the average adult’s daily potassium needs. It is also high in antioxidants, contains 300 mg of protein, 30 mg of calcium, 20 mg of magnesium and 11 mg of phosphorus – all in 1 tablespoon.The essence of fall harvest-time Nearby, an older man on a motorized scooter heard an old familiar tune and struggled to raise up and swing dance with his lady. The sight was heartwarming as the couple danced alone on the makeshift dance floor made of plywood. They danced with ease until the music ended and she helped him back to his scooter to the applause of those watching. The feeling in the air was that of family, caring and relationship, but even those do not do justice to what was felt by the people who traversed the back-road that serves as the county line between Newton and McDonald counties. Without notice, everything comes to a silent halt. It seemed

sorghum from start to finish

the task well, as she moves off in a fast trot while the men continue to feed stalks into the press. The rhythm of the music seemed to keep time with the pace of the beautiful mare as she eagerly made her rounds.


even nature paused as Maurice asked everyone to bow their heads in prayer for the noon meal. A gentleman steps forward as hats were removed and all activity ceased. He begins by giving thanks and continues by asking for protection of those in attendance, our nation and for those serving in the military. He asks for blessing over the food and the continued work of the day. “Come and Get It” broke the silence, as people file by the tables laden with food. No one becomes impatient throughout the day as folks mill among the old farm treasures in the old barn arranged for everyone to admire. Old Model T cars gleam in the sun as stories of the good ole days can be heard echoing among the visitors. In the loft, Maurice has displayed old hardware, tools and even a barbershop scene for those who braved the narrow stairs. Clearly, the farm is really a museum in disguise but the most treasured thing on the farm was not the old farm implements, tools or cars but the long forgotten sense of neighboring among family, friends and even making new friends. As time seemed to rewind to a simpler age, a relaxing peace covered the farm, stress had been abolished if but for a day and that was the true lesson. n


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connection’s cutest pet

If you think your furry or feathered friend is the cutest in the area, let us know!We invite you to share a photo of your pet to be featured in Connection’s very own Connection’s Cutest Pet contest.

Email your pet’s photo to [email protected]. Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. Remember to include your pet’s name, city you reside in and your contact information.

Kat is enjoying a nap outside before the chill of fall sets in. She lives in Monett with Sierra and Chris Eubanks.

congrats, kat. you’re november’s cutest pet!


Fall is the perfect time to get your kids outside to collect acorns, pine cones and sticks for their indoor crafts. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, any of these fi ve simple

projects can be proudly displayed on your kitchen table. Plus, your kids will delight in knowing they contributed to the festivities and it will be a great conversation piece for family members.

fi ve thanksgiving crafts

BY MEAGAN RUFFING

for your kids


An “I am thankful” tree is such a great conversation piece; literally. Have your kids grab a bunch of long, skinny twigs from outside. Place them in a vase and tie little pieces of paper with things that your kids are thankful for. Before dinner, have each person take a piece of paper off the ‘tree’ and read aloud what they are thankful for. This is a great way to teach your children the importance of being thankful.

Pinecones make such pretty centerpieces. Grab some spray glue and glitter and let your kids roll their pinecones on a paper plate to decorate. Spray a coat of shellac at the end so the glitter stays on the pinecone and not all over your house. Display in a bowl or on the fi replace mantel.

Handprints are the most nostalgic way to preserve your child’s itty-bitty years. Take that precious little hand and trace around it on a piece of paper. This is fun for an older sibling to do with their younger siblings. Turn the handprint into a turkey by drawing a face on the thumb, feathers on the next three fi ngers and fi nally, a tail on the pinky. Gobble gobble!

An acorn frame is one of the easiest, most fun fall crafts to do. Give your child an empty yogurt container to collect acorns in the next time you are outside on a walk. Grab an old frame at a secondhand store and hot glue the acorns on all around the frame (an adult should do this part). Spray with shellac once you have the acorns glued on. Voila! You have a really cool frame that you can talk about for years. This would also make a great gift for grandparents with a picture of them and their grandkids.

Lastly, make a headpiece for your child to wear at dinner. Grab some construction paper, tape, scissors and feathers. Cut the paper into strips; taping them together to make it long enough to go around your child’s head. It should fi t snugly. Decorate the crown with feathers and place on top of his head – making him feel like the prince that he is.

These are just a few quick crafts for you to do with your children. The possibilities are endless when it comes to craft time with your kids. Go on, get outside and start collecting those acorns! n

Meagan Ruffi ng is a freelance parenting writer living in southwest Missouri. She loves doing hands-on crafts with her three children.


INGREDIENTS1/2 c. uncooked instant rice1 med. onion, chopped fi nely 1 tsp. salt1 tsp. pepper1 lb. ground venison

1/3 c. brown sugar, packed1/3 c. catsup1/3 c. tomato soup, undiluted 3/4 c. water2 tsp. paprika1 Tbls. ground mustard

huntingBY CAROLYN CRAIG, KATHY BROWN AND SCHYRLET CAMERON

MORE THAN A SPORT

LOCAL AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

Autumn waves good-bye to summer as the trees shed their remaining leaves. It’s November and that

means Missouri’s fi rearms deer season! This also means many families and friends will once again gather at deer camps for this annual tradition of hunting the elusive whitetail-deer. Opening day of deer season is akin to a holiday, as hunters match wits with an animal whose keen senses and cunning are surpassed only by its adaptability. Hunting provides a unique experience where

hunters bond and share a passion for a sport that that can’t be explained but must be experienced. This sensation keeps them returning to the woods year after year. Today, Missouri’s white-tailed deer population is estimated at more than one million. Missouri offers numerous managed deer hunts for archery, crossbow, muzzleloaders, and modern firearms from mid-September through January. Hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer in the Show-Me State have never been better.

Firearms deer-season is and will continue to be a hallowed family tradition for nearly a half-million Missourians each year. With that many hunters, there’s sure to be a bountiful harvest that will help set the table for many hearty venison meals in the coming months. The challenge is cooking wild game in ways that will keep friends and family begging for more.

venison-style meatballs

DIRECTIONSPreheat oven to 375°. Combine the fi rst 4 ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Crumble ground venison over mixture and mix well. Form into 1 to 2 inch balls. Put in a greased 8-inch baking dish. In a small-sized bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and pour over meatballs. Bake uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink. Serves 4 to 6. Sisters, Schyrlet Cameron (left) and Kathy

Brown (right) along with friend, Carolyn Craig (center), are the creators of Home Grown Books. The organization is dedicated to promoting local authors of the Ozarks.

Recipes from: Wet, Wild and Woodsy by local authors Carolyn Craig, Kathy Brown and Schyrlet Cameron.



Born and raised in the Missouri Ozarks, Gary developed a love for our natural world and the abundance of wildlife that inhabit the remaining wilderness areas. Gary’s hikes through the wild area of southwestern Missouri and northwestern Arkansas, and the high mountains of the Colorado Rockies have resulted in three volumes of literature; Wild Heritage, an account of his Arkansas National River Way trek, Wild Innocent And Free, a lifetime of poetry, and Mountain Odyssey, Gary’s adventures in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The books are available at KeenBeen Coffee Roasters in Mt. Vernon. n

local author, gary sartin

DIRECTIONS In a large mixing bowl, combine potatoes, venison and barbecue sauce. Cover and refrigerate for 2 ½ hours. Drain and discard excess liquid. In a large skillet, heat oil. Add potatoes and venison; cook until slightly crispy. Season to taste with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Yield: serves 4 to 6.

spicy fried venison and tatersINGREDIENTS1 small can whole white potatoes2 1/2 cups cubed venison1/2 cup spicy barbecue sauce2 Tbls. hot sauce4 Tbls. vegetable oil1 tsp. salt1 tsp. black pepper1/2 tsp. garlic powder

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Fall is my favorite time of the year. I love the cooler weather and watching the leaves on the trees transform in to those vibrant colors of fall, the shades of browns, deep reds, rust and gold are so beautiful. I love to decorate my table with crafty ideas that I have seen either in

stores, magazines or from past personal experiences. I have a few DIY crafts that are simple, fun and can transform any space from drab to fab in under 30 minutes.

crafts for an elegant thanksgiving

centerpieceBY ANGELA KEITH


I love the glow and smell of candles burning. Candles add ambiance to any room, and can be altered to add texture and depth. Candles are easy to craft onto, and this is the perfect craft idea for the kids on a cool, brisk autumn day.

Supplies needed: Four to six candles of various colors and sizes (depending on where you want to place them, and the allotted space)Lentils, dried beans or even brown riceDouble sided adhesive glue-stripsGlue stickBurlap ribbonScissors

candles for fall ambiance

Buy candles in varying colors and heights, and don’t be afraid to mix fragrances. You can buy candles that are fragrance free, too, or you can use battery operated LED candles. Depending on the glue-strips you use, some of them won’t sick to the candle if you remove the clear overlay from the candle. Since I don’t burn mine (I use just

for decorating purposes), I remove the clear overlay and trim it down and put back on the candle and glue my strip directly to it. Lay out the lentils, or beans, you wish to use on paper or towels. Cut your accents of burlap and adhere it to the center of the candle using just a small piece of the adhesive strip. Once your burlap is in place, add your glue-strip

to fit around the center of your candle and remove one side of the backing from the strips and adhere to your candles. Continue until you have adhesive on all your candles. If you are satisfied with the placement of the accents and adhesive tape you can remove the other side of the adhesive. Note: you may need some separate glue handy, I like to use a glue stick.

Note: My personal recommendation for gluing

to candles with burlap accents is Uglu, and can be found at any craft store. It

stretches, and is easy to work with. Just be careful; it easily

sticks to any surface.

Now you are ready to roll your candles in the lentils, make sure you get the adhesive covered. If you see gaps, just gently fill in using your fingers and pushing them in place. If you still see tricky spots then use your glue fill in the area. Repeat until all your candles are covered. Using additional burlap and raffia accents adds depth and dimension to your candles. Your finished product is the perfect addition of fall splendor to any space.


Fill your sink with some cool water and place your oasis floral brick (or aqua foam) in the water to soak for about 30 minutes. Note: do not submerge or use an object to weigh the brick down, the oasis brick will absorb the water. Just place in the sink with some water and let it soak. While your oasis brick is soaking, cut the top of the pumpkin off just as if you are going to carve it. Instead of carving a perfect circular opening, I like to cut triangular shapes, this will allow you arrangement some room to fall naturally, and not look so circular. Note: you can also use “Funkins” (which can be found at any craft store such as Hobby Lobby or Michaels). These are foam pumpkins that you can cut and carve. The foam is messy, but saves you time having to clean out the inside. The foam pumpkins can be stored easily for use

year after year. Remember to dry the inside before storaging. If using a real pumpkin scoop out all of the insides of the pumpkin. Once the inside of the pumpkin is cleaned, retrieve your floral brick. Trim the brick if needed using a knife. The oasis cuts easily. Place it inside the pumpkin, and secure the brick with some floral greening pins. Simply push the pin through the corners and into the pumpkin. If you are using a craft “funkin” use a round plastic plant tray in the bottom to catch moisture from the wet floral foam. This will keep the moisture away from the foam, allowing you to reuse this every year. You can now start adding your fresh flowers in your foam. I used several different bouquets I picked at a local florist, but you can find a nice mixed bouquet at

local grocery stores that have a floral dept., or, if you want to use silk flowers they can be found at local craft stores. Trim your flowers as you add them so that you get a balanced arrangement. Note: floral bricks can keep your arrangement looking good for a few days, and sometimes as long as a week if you’re lucky. Personally, I like to do my floral arrangement the morning of my dinner, so my arrangement is fresh. I prepare my pumpkin the day before so it has a little time to dry out. You can also add ribbon, burlap, lentils to your pumpkin if you desire, the possibilities are endless. If you don’t want to fuss with floral arranging you can always use a potted mum or any potted plant of your choice. I sat my centerpiece on top of a grapevine wreath and added a few candles. n

pumpkin vase for displaying fresh flowers

A Pumpkin vase with fresh flowers makes the perfect centerpiece for your fall table. Most people don’t think of using a pumpkin as a versatile and functional vase. I personally love to use pumpkins in this way.

Supplies needed: A fairly large pumpkinSharp carving knife and spoonSmall to medium size aqua floral brickLarge bundle fresh fall assorted flowers


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Are you a proud parent? If so, take this opportunity to show off that cute kid of yours.

We invite you to share a photo of your child to be featured in Connection’s very own proud parent cutest kid contest.

Email your child’s photo to [email protected]. Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. Remember to include your child’s name, parent’s name, age, city and your contact information. The contest is open to children ages 10 and under.

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PROUD PARENTnovember’s cutest kidsTHE MIZER KIDSAuden, 4Rogan, 14 monthsKinzey, 7Congratulations to proud parents Aaron and Brittany Mizer, of Cassville.

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What agricultural venture makes you wait seven years before your fi rst harvest, requires you

to groom your produce and harvest during the coldest time of the year? The next question posed would be – why would you want to choose that crop in the fi rst place? Most people with a career in agriculture understand that patience is a virtue and mandatory, whether you want it or not. It is a year around job to prepare the soil, plant your crop, care for the tender plants and protect them from

insects or disease. However, this special breed of growers know that choosing this crop means a long-term dedication, where most would not want to invest the time or effort. For John and Charity Keith, owners of Ozark Valley Christmas Tree Farm, it is more about family. Each year the young couple eagerly awaits cooler weather, not just to harvest their crop of Scotch pine trees, but also to provide a place where anyone, young or old, can come to etch memories that will last a lifetime.

Nevertheless, this family is just as unique in their passion for their crop, as their crop is to southwest Missouri. The Keiths, who have three children: Tucker, 7, Duncan, 5 and Annabella, 5 months, love gardening and wanted to fi nd a way to expand their gardening experience beyond the normal vegetables and fruits. Charity decided to research growing Christmas trees and joined the Missouri Christmas Tree Growers Association to get more information. After talking to several tree farmers in the state, the couple decided

evergreenevergreenBUILDING MEMORIES ONE CHRISTMAS AT A TIMESTORY BY KATRINA HINE

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We appreciate your support of Connection, and we hopeyou look forward to receiving and reading the magazineeach month. If you have any suggestions or feedback youwould like to share, please don’t hesitate to contact me [email protected].

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Renew your subscription to Connection, southwest Missouri’s most popular magazine

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to take the leap. With technical help from her uncle, John Hobbs, local MU Extension specialist, who provided specific information on soil, tree types and care, the couple started their adventure. They planted their first trees back in 2004 near their home, nestled in a wooded valley of western McDonald County before they had any children. They are now in their third year of actual tree sales. However, finding the right tree took some trial and error, for two years in a row the drought claimed every Scotch Pine seedling the couple had planted. They tried White Pine but they could not survive the drastic climate changes in southwest Missouri. Next to try was Leland Cyprus, which are more ornamental – and they grew great, but then came a hard winter with constant snow cover. Now, besides their durable Scotch pine, they decided to grow a test field of Virginia Pine, which requires shearing about three times a year depending on how wet the year is. Last year, the couple estimated that

they sold 310 trees from the pines located on their farm and the pre-cuts that they order in from Michigan. They found that some customers prefer trees with softer needles, or that are taller than the normal six-to-seven foot Scotch Pine, so they began ordering to meet the needs of those customers. The most popular pre-cuts are the Fraser Fir because they have a nice fragrance, followed by White Pine and Douglas Fir because they can reach up to 11 foot in height. The pre-cuts are staked out as if they grew on the farm, allowing families the same experience of riding in the hay wagon, which starts across the road at the old barn and winds down the trail to the valley full of green Christmas trees. The hayride unloading dock is built to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, and, the path to the trees is given new gravel to allow everyone the opportunity to pick out their tree. Charity states that from the very beginning the goal was to create a place for families to go because it just

gets harder and harder to do things as a family. “There are so many stresses and things that pull families in different directions, so many families are falling apart. Christmas is typically thought of as a happy time with family, and I thought if we could just have a place for families to come and have a good day to just enjoy each other. That’s my passion behind doing all of this,” she points out. “So many people that come say, ‘Oh, when I was a kid we used to go out and cut the family Christmas tree!’ So many say they have been looking for a place to take their children,” she adds. John admits it is fun to add the personal touch and see the repeat customers come back again, because there are not many places to make wholesome and happy memories. For some the farm is the only exposure to rural life that their children or grandchildren will ever get. John’s real job is doing estimating for USA Tank in Anderson but he secretly would love to garden for a living. Charity


was a teacher before the children started to come along and now fills her days teaching piano lessons and helping with her parents’ Right Choices Corn Maze across the road, another agri-tourism venture. She enjoys doing the advertising and helping with events such as weddings that are held at the farm. Her father, Galen Manning, lives on the original home-place that was first established in 1866 by ancestor, George Washington Manning. In fact, the barn George built 148 years ago plays a role in the family business, as the family continues to brave new frontiers in agriculture. “We plant everything in March and we have to spray them about three or four times. Weed control is a big thing for seedlings and it takes over eight hours to mow,” said John. As November rolls around, they have three weeks to get ready after the corn maze closes to create a Christmas theme. The couple starts making wreaths about two weeks before opening and the pre-cuts from Michigan arrive a week after that.Not just trees; Christmas in the barn. The season for them starts the day after Thanksgiving and sometimes runs up to Christmas Eve. Each Saturday night of the season, after they close up the tree sales, people can go to the old barn where they have lights on various buildings and the gazebo is surrounded by the different scenes from the nativity story. Galen then begins to tell the children the biblical story as a spotlight shines on a different scene. “We wanted to connect Christmas with why we really have Christmas. The reaction has been great and just watching the faces while the story is being told is awesome,” Charity said. “There is a cave over there, and we added a cross by the cave to represent the resurrection and tied the whole story together.” There are more things to do than just get a tree, the barn is filled with tables where kids can build things, make pinecone birdfeeders or get their picture taken. A reindeer train that the kids can ride, which is actually the cow train with antlers, travels around the Christmas Corral filled with inflatable characters. The Christmas Cottage gift-shop features wreaths made from the couple’s trees, as well as, gifts – some made by local residents. The couple also support efforts such as Trees For

Troops and a portion of the proceeds from wreath sales goes to purchase children’s books at the Southwest City Library. “I take my kids to the library once a week and felt it was a worthy cause to make sure there are plenty of books for kids in the community to read,” Charity said. The couple agree it would be nice to eventually farm full-time and provide people with a pick your own garden and orchard, to capture the spring and summer season also. “It’s a thought that is always in the back of my mind,” John said. “I like to garden, it’s one of my things. It goes back to doing things like hunting or fishing where I can get into my zone and unwind my mind.” The Ozark Valley Christmas Tree farm is located 4.5 miles north of Southwest

City. Take Hwy. 76 or Hwy. 60 east to Hwy. 43 south. At the junction of Highways O and 43, travel east on Manning Road (1090 Manning Road) just over a mile and you will see the Manning Brothers Farm on the left where there is parking. From there you ride a hay wagon to pick your very own fresh Christmas tree and make memories for a lifetime.They are open November 28 through December 21, Saturdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., then Saturday only are the activities and story time begins at 4 p.m. They are open Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information you may call 417-762-2276 or email them at: [email protected]. They can also be found on their web page ozarkvalleychristmas.com or Facebook. n


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Layne is a part-time writer and barista and a full time enthusiast of the natural world. She just earned a degree in communication from University of Arkansas. When she isn’t making coffee or snapping pictures, she enjoys a plethora of pastimes, including; archery, reading, camping and gardening, to name a few. Layne grew up among the red cedars and rolling hills of southwest Missouri, and currently dwells in northwest Arkansas with her husband, Brian, Luna the Corgi-Labrador, and two pretentious felines, Meeko and Cora.

five favorite reads

BY LAYNE SLEETH

CURL UP WITH A BOOKLOCALISTA LAYNE’S LIST

The holidays and winter months are nigh. November is perfect for settling into a cold weather

routine, reflecting, and gathering with loved ones, but most importantly it is about being thankful. As the crisp air drives us indoors more frequently, there may be quiet moments at home that lend themselves to creature comforts, such as the pairing of a cozy chair and a good book. I grew up perusing the shelves at the library after school and summers with my mom and brother. For me, books hold not only words, but novel ideas (pun intended), places far away, and new, exciting people with whom to become fictional friends. As I reflect on all that I am thankful for this month, I think about the books that have marked certain phases throughout my life so far, and about the nostalgia and happiness that libraries and bookstores bring me. There’s nothing like cracking open the cover of a fresh book and settling in. With gratitude and books in mind, here is a list of the top five books that I will be delving into during this chilly season:

1. for the nonfiction lover: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan CainSusan Cain is a notable TED (Technology, Entertainment, and Design) Talks speaker and author of Quiet. Who wouldn’t love a book that champions the important contributions of introverts? If you’re not an introvert yourself, chances are that you have one in your life. This gem of a book introduces readers to successful introverts and suggests we reevaluate the ideals of American business culture that leave little room for introversion.

2. for the historical fiction enthusiast: The Book Thief by Markus ZusakEven though this work has been around for over eight years, it still holds a spot on the New York Times bestseller list. And for good reason. Death is the sympathetic narrator of the book and weaves together the captivating personal tale of Liesel and those that surround her in troubling times in Germany during World War II. The Book Thief illustrates the power of language and connection.


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November is also special because it is officially National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo, for short). NaNoWriMo is a month-long event in which a large community of people from all walks of life participate and aspire to be novelists. They begin writing on November 1st and by 11:59 p.m. on November 30th, if they have

pounded out a 50,000 word novel, they are winners! Prizes include an assortment of bookish goodness. The organization’s website describes National Novel Writing Month as a “fun, seat-of-your-pants approach to creative writing.” Many resources and even writing buddies (local or online) can be found on the website:

www.nanowrimo.org. If the thought of writing your own novel has ever crossed your mind, now is the time to give it a whirl! If you’re inspired to give your novel idea a go, join this fun community of writers. Last year 310,095 participants finished their novel in 30 days. So here’s to the wordsmiths and the books they create! n

3. for the fantasy adventure-seeker: The Hobbit: Or There and Back Again by J.R.R. TolkienNot surprised, are you? With the release of the epic film trilogy derived from Tolkien’s short novel, many people are rereading and rediscovering the delights of The Hobbit. If you’re looking to add dwarves, wizards, dragons, and hobbits to your reading habit, then look no further.

4. for the mystery aficionado: The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie: A Flavia de Luce Novel by Alan BradleyThe main character is a precocious 11-year-old girl version of Sherlock Holmes, who has an affinity for chemistry, particularly poisons. Need I say more? This book is the first in a series of seven books featuring the young “detective,” Flavia, set in England in the 1950s.

5. for the student of sustainability: Natural Living: The 21st Century Guide to Self-Sufficient Lifestyle by Liz WrightI like this book because it’s a comprehensive, yet brief, guide to growing your own food and living sustainably. From composting to livestock to dyeing your own fabric, this book covers all of the back-to-basics. It’s like a much more condensed version of the classic The Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla Emery. Natural Living is best suited to readers who want to begin exploring ways to live self-sufficiently.


Let’s admit it, we all have one or more people on our Christmas shopping list whom we fi nd it diffi cult to buy for,

not because they are picky or demanding, but simply because they already seem to have everything they need. When asked what they’d like for Christmas, no answer is readily forthcoming. We’re left to fl ounder in uncertainty as we tentatively choose a gift for them that we know very well might end up sitting on a shelf, unused. This year, opt for an alternative! Consider giving them a gift that gives twice: a donation made in their name to a charity which aligns with their personal passions. The Monett Alternative Gift Fair offers the perfect venue for acquainting yourself with a variety of such local charities. When Elizabeth Lucore, a family practitioner with the Cox Health system, moved to Monett four years ago, she brought with her the seeds for the idea of an alternative gift fair which had been germinating for quite some time. Last December, those seeds were brought to fruition with the debut of The Monett

Alternative Gift Fair, an event where multiple, area non-profi t organizations are brought together under one roof, at the same time. “Alternative gift fairs have long been popular in other areas of the country,” stated Elizabeth. “I attended my fi rst one with my family in Wichita, Kansas, and it made quite an impression on me. For the past several years, the thought of starting one in Monett has been in the back of my mind. Last year, I decided I couldn’t wait any longer, so I said, ‘I’m going to do this. Who wants to help me?’ Fortunately, I had several volunteers.” With the help of those volunteers, the fi rst Monett Alternative Gift Fair was held last year in the fellowship hall of Monett’s First Presbyterian Church. “We carefully researched a lot of area charities and issued invitations to several of them which seemed to fi t in with our criteria for the fair,” explained Elizabeth. “Above all, we wanted to ensure that all of the organizations we hosted were reputable, and offered a positive

the gift that gives twiceCHARITABLE GIVING THROUGH THE ALTERNATIVE GIFT FAIRSTORY BY SHEILA HARRIS

LIVES UNDER CONSTRUCTION BOYS RANCH, located outside of Lampe, Missouri, is a Christian residential treatment program for at-risk boys. Boys are able to fi nd purpose and develop their talents by learning various trade skills, excelling in education and feeling like a part of the LUC family.

TRI COUNTY PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER is a faith-based organization dedicated to helping people unprepared for pregnancy with options, advice, practical resources and referrals, including adoption information.

LOAVES & FISHES is a service organization, consisting of 40 to 50 volunteers, which prepares and delivers hot, nutritious meals to elderly, infi rm or incapacitated persons in the Monett, Friestatt, Pierce City and Purdy areas.

OZARK FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA is a 40-member, independent, self-sustaining orchestra based in Monett. The ensemble commissions new works, features regional and national soloists, and hosts a Young Artists competition annually.


contribution to the community. In the future, we hope to have enough interested non-profi t participants to implement an application process.” “The benefi ts of an alternative gift fair are two-fold,” Elizabeth continued. “They give non-profi t groups a valuable chance to mingle and learn from each other, and they also provide shoppers and residents of the community with a unique opportunity to educate themselves about various local charities, as well as conveniently make donations on-the-spot, if they so desire.”

Shoppers have the opportunity to browse among the tables of the non-profi t groups, which are staffed with knowledgeable volunteers prepared to answer questions about each group’s mission and the services it offers. After donations are made to the charities of their choices, a card or small ornament will be issued to shoppers for presentation to friends and family members, noting that a gift has been given in their name. A favorite aspect of the alternative gift fair for Pierce City resident Jennifer Conner is its ability to provide face time with actual members of the non-profi t organizations she is interested in. “It’s so much more personal for me when I’m able to put a face with a name,” stated Jennifer, a member of the six-person planning committee for the fair. “It’s so

cool to be able to walk into a room with 20 non-profi t organizations present and learn about each of them individually. When you contribute, instead of feeling like an anonymous donor, you feel more like an active participant in the group.” “For me, an important aspect of an alternative gift fair,” continued Elizabeth, “is to encourage people to think outside the box for Christmas gifts, and to share what they’ve been given by making a donation to a non-profi t charity, instead of giving the usual material gifts. It’s a way to get back to the true meaning of Christmas. The fact that we raised over $5,000 with our fi rst gift fair last year, tells me that for a town the size of Monett, this community has a big heart! Not every mid-sized town could successfully support a gift fair like this, but Monett is wonderfully unique.” Elizabeth would like to emphasize that The Alternative Gift Fair is an ecumenical event for the entire community, and is not the product of any particular religious denomination. The planning committee is made up of representatives from several different area churches, as well as non-church members. “I would like to see the Alternative Gift Fair become a tradition in Monett, with or without me,” declared Elizabeth. “When we support local non-profi t organizations, everybody in the area benefi ts. This fair is for all of us.” All 20 of last year’s non-profi t organizations will be in attendance again this year, offering a wide variety of gift-giving opportunities for shoppers. “It’s fun to match up the interests of the people you are purchasing gifts for with the charitable groups presents,” related Elizabeth. “For example, if you have a music lover on your shopping list, a donation to The Ozarks Festival Orchestra might be a perfect gift idea for them. Or, if someone has recently lost a loved one, a donation in their name to Hospice Compassus might be a thoughtful gift. No matter which organization you donate to, your gift ultimately gives twice.” n

Enjoy live music, hot cider and snacks while you shop at The Second Annual Monett Alternative Gift Fair Where: The Community Room at the Monett YMCAWhen: December 62014, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

For more information, fi nd them on facebook at www.facebook.com/monettalternativegiftfair, or contact Jennifer Conner at 573-619-7343.

LIST OF ATTENDING ORGANIZATIONS:

Food for Thought (Ozarks Food Harvest)Barry Co Youth Camp

Barry County Regional LibraryCrosslines

The DenFor the Kids

Heifer InternationalWildcat Glades

H.E.R.O.E.S. careHospice Compassus

KornerstoneLives Under Construction

Loaves and FishesMonett/Purdy Habitat for Humanity

YMCA Strong KidsTrees for LifeWorld Vision

Lafayette Tri County Pregnancy Resource

Historical SocietyOzarks Festival Orchestra


Connection Editor Sherry Tucker invited me to share with you a little of what I’ve been doing since moving to Colorado 15 months ago, and I jumped at the chance to reconnect with my former readers. Our decision to leave Cassville for Colorado was not an easy one for Mike and me, but it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up. Our leap of faith has turned into an adventure of self-discovery, and we are still getting acclimated to life in the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 6,700 feet. After living in one community for over 25 years, the move to a new town in a new part of the country was daunting at fi rst, but luckily, we picked well when it came to choosing a place to put down roots. It didn’t take long for us to realize that Steamboat is a very special place that shares many of the same attributes we loved about living in southwest Missouri.

greetings from steamboat springs, colorado.

Steamboat Springs is a town with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1876 by Mr. and Mrs. James Harvey Crawford, a young couple from Missouri who left their home seeking adventure in the mountains (sound familiar?). As locals will tell you if you ask, Steamboat was a town before it became a world class ski resort, and that sense of deeply rooted community remains strong here and creates a different vibe than other mountain towns like Vail or Breckenridge along the I-70 corridor. Ranching is also a big part of Steamboat’s charm, and Mike and I have had the pleasure of getting to know several of the area’s long-time ranchers. When we tell them we once raised hogs and cattle on a farm in Missouri, we have an immediate connection. The little towns of Yampa and Phippsburg and Toponas that dot Routt County’s rural edges remind us of Exeter and Wheaton and Fairview and make us feel right at home as we explore the gorgeous country that surrounds Steamboat.

For me, another draw of Steamboat is its vibrant arts community. There are countless music and dance performances to attend and art galleries to visit, and there is some kind of festival planned every weekend during winter and summer tourism seasons. My favorite event so far has been the annual Literary Sojourn hosted by the Bud Werner Memorial Library and Off the Beaten Path, the local independent bookstore. Nationally recognized authors travel to Steamboat to host a one-day celebration of reading and books, and this year, the master of ceremonies was Joy Fowler, author of “The Jane Austen Book Club” and “We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves.” While I’m relishing the town’s cultural amenities, Mike is taking advantage of the never-ending recreational opportunities that abound here. He’s joined a triathlon club and spends all the time he can outdoors — skiing, swimming, biking and even hiking with me when he needs a day

livin’ the life in coloradoA LETTER TO CONNECTION READERS FROM LISA SCHLICHTMAN

MINDI ARTHERTON ALONG WITH HER SON,

RHETT, AND TRISH McCRACKEN VISITED LISA IN

COLORADO THIS PAST SUMMER.


four-day climbing adventure to Joshua Tree National Park in California with friends. Ryan graduated from Colorado Christian University with a degree in youth ministry, and this spring, moved to Steamboat. Like most other young people living here, Ryan is working four different jobs. He’s a barista at a book store, he coaches a U11 team for the Steamboat Soccer Club, he leads worship at SK8 Church, a church for skateboarders, and he works with an after-school literacy program called BookTrails. This winter, he’ll join his dad on the mountain as a ski instructor. Mike and I (and the boys) will forever hold a special place in our hearts for Cassville but we’re falling in love with Steamboat a season at a time. Whenever we can, we take the opportunity to explore the incredible beauty around us – on skis, on bikes and on foot — and we’re determined to never take any of it for granted.

In the meantime keep connecting,

Lisa Schlichtman([email protected])

Since moving here several people from Cassville have visited us, and we’ve cherished that time spent with good friends. We’d welcome more visits, and our door is always open. It’s gorgeous out here, and we’d love to show you around — winter, spring, summer or fall. And some day soon, I promise I’ll be back for a visit. n

to rest. This winter, Mike has been hired as an offi cial Ski Ambassador, and in that capacity, he will be welcoming skiers and snowboarders to Steamboat Ski Area and guiding them around the mountain. It’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it, and it might as well be Mike. And speaking of jobs, serving as the editor of the Steamboat Pilot & Today, a seven-day-a-week daily newspaper with an average daily circulation of 10,000, has been a change of pace for me but a challenge I’ve embraced. Steamboat loves its newspaper, and I’ve spent most of this year introducing myself to the community - hosting monthly Coffee and a Newspaper get-togethers, speaking to community groups and attending as many meetings and events as I possibly can. Most recently, the magazines we produce and the content we create for TV18, the local resort television station the newspaper owns, have come under my direction, and I’m excited about this new opportunity - especially the magazine part.

Launching Connection magazine is one of greatest achievements of my professional career, so getting a chance to help guide Steamboat Living and Explore Steamboat magazines gives me the chance to continue something I missed dearly when I left Missouri. And while I’m on the subject of magazines, I want to express my delight at Connection’s continued success under the direction of Editor Sherry Tucker and art director Veronica Zucca. Reading Connection is like taking a trip home to Cassville, Monett and Barry County, and I am grateful to the advertisers who continue to make the free publication possible. And for those of you who know me well, you know this letter home wouldn’t be complete without a son update. So here you go. . . Nick is a practicing physical therapist in Scottsdale, Arizona. When he’s not treating patients, he’s spending any free time he has rock climbing. As I write this, he’s on a

never take any of it for granted.

Since moving here several people And while I’m on the subject of magazines, I want to express my delight


This year I was blessed with a trip to see nine major cities in five countries in Europe. Taveling with

me were 3 Barry county residents, Steven and Marilyn Lyons, of Cassville and Kathy Wallace, of Monett.

london I was two days late to see London because they cancelled our flight out of Houston. London was a short visit – with only seeing the river and lovely homes, narrow streets and the double-Decker buses. Our driver shared that the price range for homes in London were in the $300,000 range, and apartments were $1,200 a week. Passports had to be checked as we left London for Paris at the St. Pancras Station. We arrived hours early because of the customs check-in, then waited to board the Eurostar; the quarter-mile long, high-speed train which whisked us under the English Channel. It was so fast, that we didn’t know when we went under the water. The train traveled underground most of the time from England and into France. We got to see small plots with crops growing along the tracks. Landscape looked much as what we have in southwest Missouri.

A TRAVELOGUE BY MONETT’S NORMA CLINTON

grand tour of europe

NORMA IN ROME WITH STATUE


Paris is the City of Light, the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame, Pantheon and the Ritz Hotel (where Lady Diane stayed the day before she died). I could keep naming places for pages, but two things impressed me – first, we were told that when the Eiffel Tower was built everyone was upset and they hated it – so ugly. Today they still hold the same opinion! Second, was when we toured the river at night and saw all the wonderful bridges. History of the bridges were outstanding to me, and they were beautiful! The Russians gave Paris a bridge, another was a bridge of locks – lovers locked their love on the bridge. Is this why Paris is called the City of Love? We saw the Eiffel

Tower at night, and there were lights and people. And, we learned that The Statue of Liberty has 3 sisters ¼ her size – her sister in Paris faces her in New York. Versailles Palace of the “Sun King,” Louis XIV, was more than I ever expected. It took 50 years and 35,000 workers to make

it the most magnificent chateau in Europe at that time. The one-hour tour was not enough time to study the State Apartments and the glittering Hall of Mirrors. One painting showed Louis taking the Crown out of the Pope’s hands and placing it on his head when he became king.

Thales train to Amsterdam – we had only 14 minutes to load all our luggage for 42 travelers and find our seating. Our Direct, or Marcellus Miglioranzi, said, “stop being nice Americans – hog in and keep everyone else out our way,” and, “watch out for each other and their possessions.” It was interesting to see the rural farming communities and with crops and animals from the train. There appeared to

be no new buildings in the communities. Amsterdam was a city of canals, bicycles, flowers and leaning buildings. They have five original windmills in operation with people living in them. We toured Rembrandt Farm; it is one of three that still make wooden shoes. They also have cows and make unpasteurized cheese which stays fresh at room temperature sealed. Monett’s Lion’s Club would love to use their

on to amsterdam!

the beauty of france

STEVE AND MARILYN AT THE EIFFEL TOWER


250 kettle to make apple butter. Tulips were gone for the season but there were flowers everywhere. We saw close-up the world-famous flower market at Aalsmeer. It was a mile long and organized with belts and forklifts moving flowers everywhere. It was like our Wall Street with people bidding on the flowers. Flowers are shipped worldwide. Delft is a medieval town with canals and cobbled alleyway and famous churches.

Our famous painter Vermeer had a home in Delft. It was market day and the square was full of tents selling wares. It is like Mt. Vernon on Apple Butter Days. Lots of people were shopping. Marcellus, our Direct, surprised us by taking us to the North Sea for a few hours. The water was not cold and there were young children playing in the sea. The Hague has home of the International Court of Justice and the

majestic Peace Palace. The Peace Palace, during peace, has their doors open, and in war they are closed. It was built for 1.5 million and was paid for by Dale Carnegie with a check. It is worth about 42 million dollars today. That evening we had a canal cruise with a good meal and saw homes light up. We passed Ann Franks house. Some people toured Ann franks house and also the, “Red light district.”

into germany Then, we traveled to Cologne by bus, to see a Gothic cathedral which was started in the tenth century and still in process today. The stain-glass windows told Bible stories to the poor. There were no chairs – only floors, ceiling and glass windows. The bell tower was where they “try to reach heaven.” At Boppard we boarded a river ship for a scenic cruise up the Rhine to Sankt Goar. We saw six castles perched on the banks of this section of the Rhine River. I wondered how they were constructed – they appeared to be close to each other so how did they live? Heidelberg was a very interesting town, it has an ancient castle which housed the world’s largest wine barrels in the world. It was a city within a city. For dinner we went to a local place which served good food and wines. The local chapter of the Lion’s clubs had their meeting earlier and left the bell. It was nice to see to touch of home. Education in Germany is free to anyone who speaks German. Story was told that a person spent his whole life studying because if he stopped, so would his trust fund.

and then to switzerland We stayed at Grand Hotel of Europe when we were in Lucerne. It was a taste of old world elegance. Rolex’s watches are made in this town. The Swiss Alps are lovely and the locals keep the homes looking beautiful. Sunday morning I was walking to the dock for my next tour, praying, and the Lord spoke to my heart and said, “My heaven is more beautiful than this!” We cruised up Lake Lucerne and enjoyed the landscape as we reached the dock to Mt. Pilatus. Legend holds that the mountain was named for Pontius Pilate. He

was blown there by the devil after Christ was killed. It has the world’s steepest clog train. To me it was same as Pike Peak and views the same beautiful views from both places. Alps water flows into Lake Como, it is so clear you can see fish swimming. Marcellus arranged a cruise on the lake to see all the homes. The area is where all the famous and wealthy people would spend their summers. George Clooney was reported to be resident while we were there. We missed seeing him, though!

MARILYN LYONS, NORMA CLINTON AND

KATHY WALLACE

LUCERNE SWITZERLAND


We traveled in the world’s longest tunnel in the Alps – 12 miles – as we head for Italy. Verona was the home for Shakespeare and he wrote Romano and Juliet. We saw the wall where lovers pen their love. It was black from all the names, it is reported to be under Juliet’s balcony. The main crops were olives and grapes in Italy. We saw only a few farm crops and some logging as we traveled by bus. The northern part of Italy is still in the mountains where we saw many vineyards, and they appear to be 1-2 acres plots. I must compliment our driver Isabel who drove over very narrow, windy roads, and she was an excellent driver. We enjoyed listening to Marcellus sang to us in Italian. He had learned the songs from his grandmother who is now 95.

italy bound!

years. Venice is now a democracy. We saw beautiful large rooms with pictures painted on the walls and ceilings. It was breathtakingly lovely. The ceiling in the main room was not a ceiling, but was attached to one above by ropes because of the sea. There is so much that I am leaving out because of space but if you can, please go and enjoy the city. Last stop was Rome, it is true what they said, ‘no respect for traffic and their laws.’ Police said,”not my problem,” when asked to move cars from the bus stop. The Jews built the Colosseum in nine years and with the materials that they used you wondered “HOW?” Another marvel were the marble columns – they were four feet by 40 feet and came by boat from Egypt. The history of all the building in Rome would take books. Rome cannot build a subway because of all buried cities under the current. You see on the road many of the little smart cars and scooters. It was the only city where we saw people asking for money. Outside the Vatican walls one of ladies had one come up to her table asking for money. She gave her money and the lady angrily said, “not enough,” and threw the money back on the table. We had an hour tour of Vatican City. It is the second most visited in Europe beside the Louvre in Paris. What was interesting was that each Pope added the art of

that time in another building attached to Vatican. We got a tour of two rooms before going into the Sistine chapel. They were for maps and for rugs. It was important to me to learn what was the meaning behind every picture and statue, there are many stories not told. It was a trip of a lifetime and I missed sharing it so much with you, but I can truthfully say – Missouri is just as beautiful as any place in Europe. What you always wanted to know but were afraid to ask – Yes, you have to pay to use the watch closet. n

Venice; it was my highlight of the tour. We got to take a gondola ride, I expected the waterway to dirty and smelly, but it was clean. Our guide shared how logs are placed under the building in the sea keep the above sea level. I wonder how many logs were shipped from southwest Missouri? Apostle Mark’s body is buried in St. Marco Square. They stole him from his resting place because they didn’t like the way people (Muslims) were worshiping over his remains. St. Mark’s symbol is the lion. There are lions: One on the waterfront was freedom statue one side the lion is trying to break the chain of bondage and the other he is roaring the chains removed. We saw the Gothic Doge’s Palace where people ruled for over a thousand

COLUSEUM IN ROME


Black Walnut PieIngredients1 unbaked 8-inch pie shell 1 cup black walnuts, chopped 1/4 cup butter, melted 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1/2 cup sorghum molasses 3 eggs, beaten 1/2 tsp. vanilla

InstructionsSpread the chopped walnuts over the bottom of the pie shell and set aside. Blend the butter and syrups with the eggs and vanilla. Pour the mixture over the nuts in the pie shell. Place the pie in a pre-heated 425 degree F oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to 350 degrees F and continue baking for 25 minutes or until top cracks slightly. Cool thoroughly before cutting.

Streusel-topped Pumpkin PieIngredients1 unbaked crust for 9 inch pie1 can (15 oz) pumpkin (no pumpkin pie mix) 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk (1 1/2 cups) 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1/4 tsp. salt

Streusel topping1/4 cup packed brown sugar 2 Tbls. all-purpose fl our 2 Tbls. butter or margarine, softened 1/2 cup chopped pecans 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats

Topping 1 tsp. grated orange peel 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (3 cups)

InstructionsHeat oven to 425°F. In large bowl, mix fi lling ingredients until well blended. Pour into crust-lined pan. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F; bake 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in small bowl, mix streusel ingredients. Sprinkle streusel over pumpkin fi lling. Bake 15 to 20 minutes longer or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely, about 1 hour. Gently fold orange peel into whipped topping. Serve pie with topping. Store in refrigerator.

a little slice of heavenTHE PERFECT ENDING TO ANY MEAL


Lemon Meringue PieIngredientsLemon Filling: 4 egg yolks (reserve whites for meringue) 1/3 cup cornstarch 1 1/2 cups water 1 1/3 cups sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 3 Tbls. butter 1/2 cup lemon juice 1 Tbls. fi nely grated lemon zest 1 (9-inch) pre-baked pie shell 1 recipe Meringue, recipe follows Meringue Topping: 4 egg whites 1 pinch cream of tartar 2 Tbls. sugar

InstructionsLemon Filling: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Whisk egg yolks in medium size mixing bowl and set aside. In a medium saucepan, combine cornstarch, water, sugar, and salt. Whisk to combine. Turn heat on medium and, stirring frequently, bring mixture to a boil. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and gradually, 1 whisk-full at a time, add hot mixture to egg yolks and stir until you have added at least half of the mixture.

Return egg mixture to saucepan, turn heat down to low and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and gently stir in butter, lemon juice, and zest until well combined. Pour mixture into pie shell and top with meringue while fi lling is still hot. Make sure meringue completely covers fi lling and that it goes right up to the edge of the crust. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until meringue is golden. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack. Make sure pie is cooled completely before slicing.

Meringue Topping: Place egg whites and cream of tartar in the bowl of a stand mixer fi tted with the whisk attachment. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form and then gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form, approximately 1 to 2 minutes. Use to top lemon fi lling.

Cranberry Apple PieIngredients2 cups sugar 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 cup orange juice 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. apple pie spice 1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp. lemon juice 4 cups sliced peeled tart apples 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries Pastry for double-crust pie (9 inches) 2 Tbls. butter

InstructionsIn a large bowl, combine the fi rst seven ingredients. Add apples and cranberries; toss gently. Line a 9-in. pie plate with bottom pastry. Add fi lling; dot with butter. Roll the remaining pastry to fi t top of pie. Cut vents in pastry, using a small apple cutter if desired. Place over fi lling; seal and fl ute the edges. Bake at 425° for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°; bake 50 minutes longer or until crust is golden brown and fi lling is bubbly.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie PieIngredients1 6-oz. graham cracker pie crust 3 eggs 1 cup light corn syrup 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 3 Tbls. melted butter or margarine 3/4 cup quick-cooking oats 1 Tbls. all-purpose fl our 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. salt 3/4 cup Sun-Maid Natural Raisins whipped cream or ice cream

InstructionsHeat oven to 325 F. Beat together eggs, corn syrup, sugar and butter. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into crust. Place on baking sheet. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until top is golden brown and fi lling is “just set” in center. Cool. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream. n


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familiar facesThe 48th annual Apple Butter Makin’ Days, sponsored by the Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce, were held Oct. 10-12 in and around the square in Mt. Vernon. 1. John Hull and Miranda Hull. 2. Olivia Thomas, Cassidy Maddux, Tracy Maddux and Shanna McNeff. 3. Julie Ruzicka, Joan Reese and Kelsey Ruzicka.

4. Stan Brooks, Robin Copeland and Charlotte Brooks. 5. Larry and Deborah Warren. 6. McKena Propps, Carsyn Goetz, Courtney Goetz and Connie

Goetz. 7. Andrea, Brian and Clara Brawley. 8. Stacey Zabala, Amanda Zabala and Madison O’Hara. 9. Skip and Shelly Brown. 10. Traci and Brently

Blankenship. 11. Leah Bowles, Tate Williams, Eleanor Williams, Denise Bowles and Leanne Williams. 12. Tom and Mary Neff.

10 11 12

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2 3


familiar facesThe annual Marionville Applefest took place on Sept. 19 and 20 in downtown Marionville. 1. Addison Packwood, Whitney Packwood and Jaden Phinney. 2. Jerra Baker and Shelby Roder. 3. Lesie, Daniel, Breton and Avery Julius. 4. Donna

and Jacob Bower. 5. Angie and Abbey Farley. 6. Zaidyn, Dan and Caedryns Boyd. 7. Gracie Ritchey and Chantelle Alleger. 8. Aubrey White and Quisto

Eutsler. 9. Dixie Slane and Anica Zoland. 10. Joe Bishop and Carol Robbins. 11. Morgan Brammel and Kyland Lake. 12. Joshua Ross, Penny Stephens,

Jacob Ross and Caleb Ross.

10 11 12

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2

3


familiar facesThe first Mystery and Intrigue Festival, sponsored by the Mt. Vernon Arts Council, was held on Oct. 4 at the Mt. Vernon Arts and Recreation Center (the MARC). 1. Ted Russell, John Breyel and Brandon Russell. 2. Martha Davis-Goldstein, Ethan Davis, Isabel Davis, Sabrina Davis and Owen Davis. 3. Amy McCann and

Julie Hull. 4. Chris Cupit, Brittni Cupit, Roseann Cupit, Justin Cupit and Wesley Fox. 5. Angela Bradford and Kim Doll. 6. Glenna Yike and Danielle Hukill.

7. Ollie and Oliver Hardee. 8. Jasmine and Regan Gatewood, Addie, Trish and William Gatewood. 9. Barbara Mackie and Dayzie Weaver. 10. Pam and Zoe

Freitag. 11. Massey Atkenson, Janeé Larson, Tammy Atkenson and Lyla Lacey. 12. Vicky and Charles Stearns.

10 11 12

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2 3


familiar facesThe 19th annual Relay for Life was held in Monett on Sept. 20 at the E.E. Camp gymnasium at the Monett Middle School. 1. Julie Ward, Terry Johnson. 2. James, Tyler and Jade Schumann. 3. David Frohnaple and Gary Hill. 4. Roger, Carter and Kamron Snow. 5. Harriett Meyer

and Caleb Long. 6. Meghan Gaines and Hunter Williams. 7. Nicole Sutphin and Mary Hennigan. 8. Daphne Hensley and Jennifer Wallace. 9. Gene and

Jeanette Gripka. 10. Melissa Merritt and Rhonda Divine. 11. Annie Knight, Nikolas Knight and Tiffany Dohn. 12. Carolyn Kemp and Charlotte Cavener.

10 11 12

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2 3


familiar facesThe second annual Spanish Heritage Month Festival, sponsored by Asociación Latina Imagen, was held on Sept. 21 at South Park in Monett. 1. Kayla, Verenice and Arely Rodriguez. 2. Isamar Ibarra and Nancy Campos. 3. Alejandro Garcia, Jesus Garcia, Jackie Sanchez, Sammy Garcia, Melissa

Duran, Alfredo Vizcaino and Sebastian Vizcaino. 4. Erika Patino and Daisy Herrera. 5. Alejandra Vizcaino and Valentina Garcia.

6. Lori and Frank Soriano. 7. Juan and Lizbeth Fernandez. 8. Ivan Garcia and Fermin Sanchez. 9. Sergio Garcia and Gloria Soriano.

10. Jessica Vail and Samantha Dominguez. 11. Bob and Marlene Mareth. 12. Margo and Homer Huffman.

10 11 12

7 8 9

4 5 6

1 2 3


monthly meetings and dancesThe Southern Beekeepers of Missouri will meet at 7 p.m., the third Tuesday of the month, at the First United Methodist Church of Monett. Anyone interested in bees is welcome to attend. For more information, call Leon Riggs at 417-235-5053 or Kevin Young at 417-847-5464.

Sons of the American Revolution meet every fourth Tuesday at Granny Schaffer’s Restaurant on North Rangeline, Joplin, at 6 p.m. Members and anyone interested in joining are welcome to attend, as well as spouses. Dinner followed by short meeting. Please call president, Frank Shouse at 417-385-3150 for more information.

Bunker Hill Community Association monthly Old Time Music Jam, held the first Saturday of every month. Located just off the junction of Hwy W, and Hwy 76, east of Anderson, Mo at 5823 Rt. W. The Ozark Ridgerunner music group starts at 6 p.m. and welcomes anyone who sings, plays an instrument or just loves traditional country and bluegrass music. Refreshments provided and bring your favorite dessert or snack for a potluck at 8 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Pierce City Senior Center offers free bridge classes at 2 p.m. each Monday and quilting at 1 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month.

Central Crossing Senior Center offers line dancing classes from 9 – 10:30 a.m on Tuesdays and Thursdays; Zumba from 8:15 – 8:45 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays; Mahjong from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays; bridge from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Thursdays; quilting for charity from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m on Wednesdays and Thursdays; dominoes from 12:30 – 3 p.m. on Mondays and bingo from 12:30 – 3 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month.

senior dancesThe Stella Senior Citizens Center, the Monett Senior Center and the Aurora Senior Citizens Center hold dances weekly and monthly. The Stella dance is held every Friday from 7 – 10 p.m. with music by the McDonald Playboys and Frosty Garland and the RoadHogs on alternate Fridays. The Monett Senior Center, located at 405 Dairy Street, hosts their dance on the first Monday every month from 7 – 10 p.m. Music provided by Evelyn Lock and the Outrider Band. Snacks to share are welcome. $3.00 per person. Note: The dance scheduled for December 1, will be held at the Monett Park Casino, located at Monett South Park. The Aurora dance is held every Saturday of the month from 7 – 10 p.m. featuring the Funtimers Band.

The Monett Festival of Lights at the Monett South Park on Highway 37 will continue through Dec. 31 from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 5:30 – 10 p.m. on weekends.

Each year, the Noel post office volunteers work in the post office lobby to affix a special stamp as an added attraction to the growing number who receive their Christmas mail from “The Christmas City.” There is no charge for this service, but they request use for only personal Christmas cards, and not for packages, extremely large quantities of cards or letters, or for business use. Remember to affix proper first class postage to all of your cards before sending to Noel. To receive the Noel postmarks, package the cards, and address them to: Postmaster, Noel, MO 64854. If you have questions about the Noel postmarks, please call the Noel Post Office at 417-475-3810.

STAY CONNECTEDDECEMBER EVENTSA+ Carpet & Uphostery Cleaning 42

Acambaro Mexican Restaurant 43

Ava Belle’s Flea Market 20

Barry Electric Cooperative 12

Baywash Car Wash 20

Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home 26

Carolyn Hunter, DMD, PC 42

Cassville Health Care & Rehab 14

Community National Bank 26

Country Dodge 19

CoxHealth 68

Crane Family Dentistry 14

Diet Center 20

Doggie Lov Daycare 19

Doug’s Pro Lube 26

Eastside Church of Christ 36

Edward Jones 43

Find it Again 36

Feed & More 4

First State Bank of Purdy 2

Four States Dental Care 19

Freedom Bank 29

Grande Tire 36

Guanajuato 56

Hornor’s Frame & Collision 42

Ila Bohm’s Home Décor 32

J & R Upholstery 66

J. Michael Riehn 2

Ken’s Collision 12

Lackey Body Works 58

Les Jacobs Ford 6

Lowe’s Auto Glass 36

Making Memories Tours 32

Mocha Jo’s Coffee Café 43

Peppers and Co. 32

Pitiful to Posh 58

Plymouth Junction 2

Ramey 57

Race Brothers 14

Red Barn Cafe 56

Sater/Old Town Pharmacy 58

Security Bank 6

Shabby Chic Bra Boutique 58

Smile Designers Dentistry 66

Swartz Tractor Sales & Service 58

The Cornerstone Bank 32

The Jane Store 56

Tomblin’s Jewelry & Gifts 4

Trogdon Agency, Inc. 66

TrueCare 36

Two Hearts Cafe and Bakery 56

Whitley Pharmacy 6

Wickman’s Garden Village 12

Willis Insurance, Inc. 20

ADVERTISING INDEX


December 5Rocky Comfort School will be having their annual Santa Comes to Rocky, from 6 – 8 p.m. Rocky Comfort Elementary School on Highway 76.

December 4 – 6Dickens Christmas Faire Holiday Market: Will be held at the Mills Park Center, 100 N College St. Neosho, Mo., Dec 4, 5 – 9 p.m. VIP Ladies Night; $5 admission, Refreshments, Giveaways and Live Music. Dec 5, 5 – 9 p.m., Dec. 6, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. General admission $2. Over 50 vendors showcasing unique gifts, handmade items and gourmet foods. More Info: (417) 451-1925.

Racine Christian Church presents a free Family Christmas Experience, Journey To Bethlehem. Featuring live animals and a living nativity. Located at 12218 State Highway K, Seneca, Mo. For more information visit facebook.com/Journey.Racine or call (417) 501-5821.

December 6The Cassville Christmas parade will begin at 6 p.m.

Christmas Around the World Christmas Parade starts at 5 p.m. on the Square in downtown Neosho.

Noel Annual Christmas Parade begins at 2 pm in Noel, Mo.

December 6 – 7George Washington Carver National Monument presentation; Against the Odds: The Artists of the Harlem Renaissance. This 60-minute documentary features more than 150 rarely seen paintings, prints, photographs, and sculptures by blacks artists and rich archival footage of those artists at work. This free event is held at the monument visitor center from 1 – 2 p.m., 417-325-4151.

December 7McDonald County Youth Outdoorsman United, “Call Me A Crow” event will be held at the New-Mac building in Anderson MO. Deadline to register is December 4, as space is limited. A random drawing will determine the 30 participants. The activity is from 2 – 7 p.m. Participants will begin the event by making their own personal crow call. Then, the youth will be divided into 6 teams and taken to a field with hunting guides to test their crow calling. The festivities conclude with a pizza party. All kids age 5-18 shall register to participant by e-mail at [email protected] or call 417-439-8594. A required Missouri hunting license will be furnished for youth age 16 and older if needed.

December 11McDonald County Back to Basics Community Group will be held at the New Mac Community Room, old Highway 71 north of the high school, in Anderson (second Thursday of the month). Potluck at 6:30 p.m., meeting from 7 – 8:30 p.m. The December program will be speaker, Aaron Divine, a new director at Crowder College, who will discuss class offerings for the Spring semester including adult education classes. We will also have our annual Christmas party that night will include a performance by the Children’s Community Choir under the direction of Amber Nelson and a fun gift-exchange game. For more information, call 417-845-0170.

December 13The Pierce City Christmas parade will be held at 2 p.m. For more information, call 417-476-2323.

The Wheaton Christmas parade will begin at 6 p.m. There will be free chili, hot chocolate, cookies and pictures with Santa Claus at the park. For more information, call 417-652-3314.

The Monett Christmas Parade will begin at 11 a.m. in downtown Monett. For more information, call the Monett Chamber of Commerce at 417-235-7919.

The Aurora Christmas Parade will be held in downtown Aurora at 2 p.m. For more information, call the Aurora Chamber of Commerce at 417-678-4150.

George Washington Carver National Monument Holiday Open House, 1 – 3 p.m., free of charge. The park staff and volunteers invite the public to a holiday celebration of seasonal music, interpretive programs, and refreshments. Contact Phone Number: 417-325-4151.

Goodman Betterment Club is hosting the City’s Annual Christmas Parade at 1 p.m. on Main Street in Goodman.

Diamond Bar C Ranch Winter Buck Out Series starts at 7 – 10 p.m., (held on December 27 as well). Located 3 miles north of Diamond on Hwy. V. Good family fun with Mutton Bustin, Calf, Steer, Jr. Bull and Open Bull Riding. $100 added money in Open Bulls. Call-in’s Monday prior to event to 417-325-7465. General Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for kids under 12. We will have a calf scramble for all the kids 12 and under.

December 18Southwest City Senior Center Birthday Dinner at 11:30 a.m., located at 103 S. School St., Southwest City. For more info call: 417-762-3652.

December 20 – 21George Washington Carver National Monument, Carver Laboratory Demonstrations. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., free of charge. Want to learn about some of the products George Washington Carver developed in his laboratory? Discover how Carver used some often overlooked plants to change the way we think about agriculture. Contact 417-325-4151 for more information.

December 27 – 28George Washington Carver Monument: The Tuskegee Airmen Documentary. Held at the Visitor Center from 1 – 2 p.m. In 1941, with the world at war, a select group of African Americans made their way to Tuskegee, Alabama. They did do with the dreams of becoming the first black fighter pilots in the U.S. military. This 60 minute documentary explores they story of the Tuskegee Airmen. Call 417-325-4151 for more information. nw

STAY CONNECTED

If you have an event you would like featured in our monthly events listing, please email the event information to [email protected].


Children’s & FamilyDentistry

We �er digital X-rays, ortho, crowns,bridg� and ro� canals.

New, State-Of-e-Art Dental O�ce

We accept most dental plansMissouri Medicaid providers up to age 21.

�omas ALMS Jr., D.D.S.155W. Patterson •Mt. Vernon, Mo. • 466-3443

HOURS: Mon. -�ur: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 5 p.m.

J & R UPHOLSTERYBoat - Jet Ski - Golf Carts - Car & Truck Seats

Indoor/Outdoor Furniture - Sofas - Chairs - ReclinersSpecializing in antique furniture reupholstery

Est. 1984 • Same Location47 N Lindenwood

Shell Knob, MO 65747

(417) 858-3784cell: (417) 229-0949

TROGDON AGENCY, INC.SERVING SOUTHWEST MISSOURI SINCE 1907

www.trogdoninsurance.comP.O. Box 405 • 111 S. Market St. •Mt. Vernon

417.466.2800 • fax: 417.466.3066

Toll Free: 1.800.748.7756

AUTO • HOME • FARMBUSINESS • BONDS


I only went out for a walk and fi nally concluded to stay

out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.

– John Muir (1838–1914)

Parting ShotParting ShotB Y J E F F T E R R Y

Parting ShotParting ShotI only went out for a walk and fi nally concluded to stay

Parting Shot“

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Documents

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