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Connection Magazine | 1
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Connection Magazine | 3
staff editorial
Welcome rebirth and renewal!
I
have always heard the phrase about March, “In like a Lion, Out like a Lamb.” I have seen those days like a lion at the beginning and sometimes later in the month. Strangely enough that same month marks the beginning of spring when flowers begin to bloom and trees are budding. We are so fortunate to live in this part of the country that offers so much in beautiful scenery—the hills of the Ozarks, the lakes, the hiking trails, beautiful camping spots and so much more. I feel like March gets us ready for those times that we spend outdoors. We get the itch to get out of the house from the many days that we have spent closed off to the frigid temperatures and start planning the trips, vacations, planting, taking walks, etc. Just the thought of this time of year is so refreshing that I feel it is a time of rebirth, even if it is only in the planning stages. I spent a lot of time outdoors when I was growing up. I was a tomboy and enjoyed playing in the dirt. One thing I also enjoyed doing, which I don’t see much anymore, is kite flying. I feel like this is a very relaxing activity for most and an exciting feat for the children just to see how high they can get that kite to fly. I could not count how many kites I have actually lost, which I was certain made it to outer space. To me, March is a beginning of fun and exciting things to come. March is also a month where I have experienced big snows and the beginnings of the storms that produce destructive tornadoes. We live in Missouri where we can experience it all in one day, but, it is the open window of things to come. We plan. We dream. We prepare. The sun begins to shine for longer periods of time, which uplifts our spirits. At this point of the year we anticipate when the temperatures will stay in the 60s for more than two days and usually when it gets into the mid 70s, the planning has become real. Spring has arrived and the seeds can be planted. So if we do get another snow and a few more frigid days, we are at a turning point—a rebirth so to speak, when the flowers will bloom and the outside will welcome us with open arms!
Lisa Craft
General Manager, Connection Magazine 4 | March 2019
Hello Spring!
Lisa Craft is General Manager of Connection Magazine, The Monett Times and Cassville Democrat. She can be reached at monettcommunity@gmail.com or connection@monett-times.com
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Connection Magazine | 5
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M a r c h 2019
15 | A walk on the wild side Bison Walk at Prairie State Park in Barton County sets the pioneer spirit free
10 | From Dublin to Killarney A 10-day trip around the Emerald Isle was just the ticket for Jerry and Angie Varner
26 | National Nutrition Month Keep pace with a healthy lifestyle to ensure longterm fitness goals
46 | PEO for the community Ladies of the Philanthropic Educational Organization at Iowa Wesleyan University in Mt. Pleasant celebrate 150 year anniversary of service group’s founding
30 | Horses for healing Dynamic Strides Therapy reaches out to meet a variety of child therapy needs in the region with some fourhooved helpers
40 | reaping a vineyard Barry County native, Pamela Hemmerling, relies on her roots to succeed as master wine maker at Mustang Villa in Indiana
49 | Sara’s way Sara Farmer, 16, of Pierce City embarks on her quest to excel in the hearing world, one right turn at a time
Connection Magazine | 7
On the cover:
Kilkenny Castle in Ireland was built in 1195 to control the River Nore and the junction of many other routeways.
Contents 20 Parenting Column: It’s staycation time 22 Cutest Kid
25 Healthy Connection: Kidney health 35 Guest Column: Call me “Tonto” 37 Housing Around: A roofing tale 52 Cutest Pet
53 Rescued, My Favorite Breed Have an idea for a story you would like to see in Connection Magazine? Email it to connection@monett-times.com
JOIN US ONLINE: Facebook.com/MyConnectionMo Twitter.com/MyConnection_Mo 8 | March 2019
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Shades o’ Blarney 10 | March 2019
The group enjoyed touring the Blarney Castle, which is where they were able to kiss the Blarney Stone, in 2014.
Food, friends, sights, culture and a kiss?
W
herever you go and whatever you do, may the luck of the Irish be there with you. Making Memories Tours took adventurers on a 10-day trip to Ireland in 2014, where they experienced Emerald Isle, a land renowned for its forty shades of green. From April 27 through May 6, 2014, travelers witnessed a variety of landscapes, culture, rolling hills, warm people, castles and a passion for music, dance and conversation. According to Making Memories Tours, it’s all Ireland, just go where the island of Ireland takes you and return home with memories that will last a lifetime. Looking back on their trip in 2014, Angie and Jerry Varner, owners of Making Memories Tours, said they were impressed at how beautiful and peaceful Ireland was. The explorers visited Dublin, Waterford, Killarney and Limerick, Ireland, over 10 days, and experienced beauty, history and culture that will last a lifetime. Jerry said he was amazed at the beauty of the farmland as he watched a farmer bale hay and mow around a castle, probably built around 1,000 AD, like it was no big deal. “I also was carried away with the kindness of the people we encountered in Ireland,” he said. “Everyone was happy we had come to their country, and they understand tourism is one of the biggest income drivers for their country.”
Story by Jordan Privett | Photos provided courtesy
Connection Magazine | 11
Travel through Ireland in 10 days
Rolling green lands of Ireland, this photo was taken as Making Memories Tours drove on a backroad for a scenic adventure in 2014.
Angie said she was so excited because Ireland was her first overseas tour. “Jerry had done multiple trips overseas on mission trips, but I had not,” she said. “Ireland was beautiful, you just can’t describe the green of the countryside as far as the eye can see.” Angie said they visited the Blarney Stone on day five of their expedition. The Blarney Stone is a Carboniferous limestone that was built into the historic Blarney Castle, near Cork, Ireland. The stone was set into a tower of the castle in 1446. “Who can go to Ireland and not kiss the Blarney Stone?” Jerry said. “If nothing else, it gives you bragging rights.” The legend says that kissing the stone gives the kisser the gift of gab. “I got to kiss the Blarney Stone!”
12 | March 2019
Angie said. “The joke was if it was pink don’t kiss it on that spot, that was lipstick left from the person before you kissing it. “It was the first time I had ever seen a castle that close up.” According to Angie and Jerry, one of the coolest cities in Europe was Dublin, which is the capital of the Republic of Ireland. “The city pulsates with energy thanks to its excellent restaurants, chic boutiques, legendary pubs, beautiful art galleries, verdant urban parks, elegant architecture, fascinating and turbulent history,” Jerry said. “Plus, its unique scenic location, which is perched at the edge of the Irish Sea.” On day three, the group also enjoyed a sightseeing tour of Dublin. “We visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral,
O’Connell Street, Grafton Street, and Phoenix Park,” Jerry said. “As well as, the city’s trademark—magnificent rows of stately Georgian town homes.” Jerry said Waterford, Ireland, is a heritage city, as well as, an ancient Viking City, but it continues to be best known for its Waterford Crystal. “We had an opportunity to visit the Waterford Crystal Visitor Center and view how the crystal is made,” Jerry said. “The new Visitor Center, opened in 2010, has the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world.” Jerry said on day eight, their journey took them to the stunning, 700-foothigh Cliffs of Moher, for awe-inspiring views of the mighty Atlantic and the Aran Islands. “Next, we traveled through the limestone landscape of the Burren, known for its stark beauty and Neolithic
tombs,” Jerry said. “Then, we continue past the countryside into Galway for a brief tour. “Galway City is one of the prettiest cities in Ireland.” Jerry said there is an Irish song ‘Galway Bay’—“If you ever go across the sea to Ireland, then maybe at the closing of your day, You will sit and watch the moon rise over Claddagh, and see the sun go down on Galway Bay.” Jerry said on the final evening of their trip, they traveled to Kingsport, Ireland. “What a way to spend the last evening of our stay in Ireland,” he said. “From the moment you arrive through the 100 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland to the magnificent 19th Century Cabra Castle set deep in the Cavan countryside, you feel welcomed.”
Kilkenny Castle in Ireland was built in 1195 to control the River Nore and the junction of many other routeways. (bottom left) Jerry Varner, standing near a knight in shinning armor. The knight was in the lobby of one of the hotels the group stayed in during their travels through Ireland in 2014.
On day 10, the explorers were transported back to Dublin to catch their plane back to the good ole USA. “We believe that we showed our travelers the “crème of the crop” of the most famous highlights of this fabulous country of Ireland–—the Irish Crème,” Jerry said. “We believe we have fulfilled our guarantee that you will have made enough memories to take home with you that will last you a lifetime.” De Louis Alphin from Holiday Island, said the Ireland trip was fantastic. “Making Memories Tours treats you like family and takes care of all the details, all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy,” Alphin said. Luckily, for people who didn’t experience the trip in 2014, or those who want to go back, Making Memo-
ries Tours will be taking another tour in September 2019. This trip will cover Ireland in 17 days from Dublin, County Kildare, Cobh, Ballydehob, Kenmare, Killarney, Tralee, Burren, Galway Bay, Rossaveal, Inishmore, Dun Aonghasa, Drumcliffe, Belleek, Limavady, Belfast, Glasgow, Inverness, Culloden, Dundee and Edinburgh City. Over more than two weeks, adventurers will see the overwhelming beauties that Ireland has to offer, as well as, traditional food, music and people. “Jerry and I are both counting the days until we get to go back in September of this year,” Angie said. For more information about taking the September trip to Ireland people may visit makingmemoriestours. com. n
Connection Magazine | 13
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Where the buffalo roam Nearby bison I offer glimpse into Wild West world
Story and photos by Murray Bishoff
n 1907, Monett residents saw a most unusual sight pull into the train station one day—a train loaded with bison. This was the consequence of William Hornaday, chief taxidermist for the U.S. National Museum, who went to Montana in 1886 to collect bison specimens of what had been a population of 15 million, but by then appeared bound for extinction. The trip turned Hornaday into an avid conservationist. His work changed to saving the American Buffalo. He gathered samples of the last wild herds for what became the National Zoological Park in Washington, D.C., and for the New York Zoological Society, which established the Bronx Zoo. In 1903, there were 40 bison on the zoo’s 10-acre range. The establishment of the Wichita National Forest, the first large game preserve
in the nation, led its organizers to Hornaday. He personally offered 15 bison from the zoo’s herd. The bison traveled by train through Monett to what became the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. By 1919, the American Bison Society had managed to establish nine herds in the U.S. When the State of Missouri established Prairie State Park, located approximately 16 miles west of Lamar, in 1980, officials went to the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge for bison for the 4,000-acre park. Today, the bison roam freely inside 2,200 fenced-in acres. A sign at the fenced-in area warns visitors not to approach the bison. Conservation Department staff recommend a distance of 100 yards. The bison are one of many wildlife species on the grounds, including more than 150 bird species, open for exploration. Connection Magazine | 15
Bison in a defensive position, facing the people who have intruded on their prairie at Prairie State Park.
Bison Hike at Prairie State Park On Jan. 1, many Missouri state parks are open for hikes. The buffalo hike at Prairie State Park drew around 40 people this year, now a time-honored tradition to starting a new year. Naturalist Dana Hoisington led this year’s expedition for a group in temperatures around 30 degrees. Hoisington said on New Year’s Day 2017 the temperature was around 9
degrees and only four people came. This year’s group was game for a mile walk out onto the prairie. A half hour before the hike started, Hoisington spotted most of the herd nearby, and plotted a circular path to their chosen spot. The herd, he noted, presently numbers around 55. It had grown to as many as 140 a few years ago, but
Crossing across a flowing ditch to reach the bison herd. 16 | March 2019
park officials decided to sell off extras, under the same reasoning that led to selling off the elk herd last year. “I don’t necessarily have a passion for bison,” Hoisington said. “I do have a passion for saving resources. This is Prairie State Park, not Bison State Park. If there are so many bison that we thought that changes the prairie, then we aren’t doing our job.” As the hike progressed down the road toward the prairie itself, Hoisington pointed out its plants and distinguishing features. The height of prairies depend on rainfall, making those west of the Rockies high, in Kansas shortgrass prairies, and rebounding to tallgrass in Missouri. He pointed out the Big Blue Stem and Indian grass that the bison love, sedges and fescue they eat, the rip gut or cord grass that can tangle a wagon wheel into immobility, “frost flowers” created by sap in plants that flow through the winter and create pockets of sap that look like littered toilet paper, and saw-toothed sunflowers that tower in stripped stalks in winter after growing close to 10 feet tall.
Tracks in the moist soil raised questions. Hoisington identified deer footprints and small feet likely to have been raccoons. Bobcats roam the park as well. Their nails won’t show in the prints, he said. Preservation of the prairie uses three major strategies: burning, cutting and occasionally chemicals. “Fires don’t hurt prairies,” Hoisington said. “They’re essential. If you don’t burn, woody trees come in, and they’re not good for the prairie.” Staff burned 2,200 acres five years ago. Sections are brush hogged then burned annually to restore the prairie to its more natural state. A local rancher cuts hay from part of the fields, which the park trades with him for services. “At one point we talked about the use of goats,” Hoisington said. “They also eat endangered plants. We decided against using the goats to preserve the prairie.” The bison range from calves up to four years old, and adults of around 10 years old. Bison can live up to 20 years, Hoisington said. Standing six and a half feet tall and weighing up to 2,000 pounds, bison can run 35 miles an hour, faster than a man, thus the recommended distance for visitors. Hoisington said he never turns his back on bison. Even when walking away with a group, he keeps his eyes on them. “Watch their tails,” Hoisington said. “If they’re down and moving, they are relaxed. If they’re up, they’re not happy. If they’re straight up, they’re either pooping or unhappy.”
Deer and raccoon tracks along the roadside in Prairie State Park.
As the group came over a hillside and saw around 40 bison, the people stopped. The bison looked. One held its tail up, and soon the herd ran, not far, but about 50 yards more, stopping to look. Hoisington explained the bison group contained mostly females and calves. One of the calves could be seen nursing. Males, he noted, are usually off alone or in “bachelor groups.” “We treat them as much as a wild herd as possible,” he said. “They see people a lot, so they get used to them.” The young are born with a light brown or orange or pumpkin color that fades as they age. Though naturally defensive, particularly by the adult females, bison have no real predators on the park grounds. Historically their main predators are wolves and
Dana Hoisington showing a frost flower, a white puff created by sap that flows in a particular plant during winter. mountain lions, and of course–man. Hoisington observed that according to fossil records, today’s bison are the smallest the breed has ever been. More ancient versions weighed up to 5,000 pounds. Recently the park acquired some additional bison from Iowa. Hoisington said it had been 10 years since new stock was introduced to the herd. The Iowa bison, he noted, were more stout, with bigger horns. He credited that to genetics and wondered how the park’s herd could change breeding with the new arrivals.
The tail was up on this sentinel in the bison herd, indicating alarm at the approaching people on the buffalo hike.
Connection Magazine | 17
After the visitors stayed stationary for a bit, the bison wandered closer. Their huge frames rocked as they ambled along, their profiles outlined against the sky like ancient sentinels. It was not hard, in the open space, devoid of buildings, to imagine a world 500 years ago, where the bison ruled this world. Hoisington said the Native Americans who built their culture around the bison cherished the animals and used all of those they harvested, eating the meat, using the hides for protection, and using the bones for tools. Exhibits in the park visitor’s center explained how the Osage lived and left Missouri, showing their tools made from bones. As the bison moved closer to the people, Hoisington recommended retiring back to the visitor’s center to view the exhibits. The bison hikes take place monthly at the park, except in October, when the herd is rounded up for inspection by veterinarians. Hoisington said hikes usually occur on the first Saturday of the month, at 10 a.m. from spring to fall, and at 1 p.m. during the winter. According to handouts at the visitor’s center, Missouri once had 13 million acres of tallgrass prairie, but less than 65,000 acres remain today. Prairie State Park is Missouri’s largest remaining tallgrass prairie landscape. With the seasons, the view changes, displaying the courtship dance of the greater prairie chicken, the grasses sprinkled with flowers from Indian paintbrush, arrow-leaved violet and cream wild indigo, changing in summer to Mead’s milkweed, rattlesnake master, blue hearts and Kansas arrowhead. The park has 11 miles on its trails, open year-round. A picnic area and limited camping are also available. Additional information is available by calling 417-843-6711. n
18 | March 2019
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parenting column
Spring Break Staycation
T
he month of March reminds me of a couple of things; Spring Break, March Madness (basketball), sunnier weather, and spring cleaning. My family has always stayed home during this month’s school vacation but just a few years ago, a dear friend invited me to Florida to relax on the beach. We loved it so much we went back the next two years. However, my kids and I will be looking forward to an oldy but a goody this March…the Staycation.
You never know, Staycations might be your new favorite thing.
S
– Swing at the park. Don’t limit yourself to just one park. Make a day out of it and go to as many parks as you can or let each kid pick the park they want to go to. This is a great way to get everyone outside, explore your city, and burn off energy. You can also pack yourself a picnic and make your day at the park one that your kids will never forget. This might be the first time your child swings by herself or the last time your child fits into the baby swing. Whatever season of parenting you’re in, let it be a memorable one.
T
– Trails. Hit up the local trails in your town for a long walk or hike. If you’re new to this type of outdoor fitness like I am, don’t worry –start simple. Make sure everyone has their sneakers on, a lightweight backpack to put snacks and a water bottle in, and you’re good to go. Make it an adventure and print out a scavenger hunt sheet from Pinterest to add to the fun.
A
– Aquatics Center. Who doesn’t like to swim? My kids love it, and they’ll be the first in line to jump off the high board. It’s probably too cold to swim outside in March so visit your local YMCA or Community Center and enjoy playing with your kids in the pool. Swimming is more than just something fun to do. There are so many health benefits to it, and your kids will sleep great at night. It’s a win-win spring break thing to do.
Y Parenting Journalist Meagan Ruffing, is looking forward to her kids’ school break this year so she can try new things and revisit old favorites with the ones she loves. To read more of Meagan’s family-oriented articles, visit her at www.meaganruffing.com
20 | March 2019
– Yes Day. Every kid should get to experience a ‘Yes’ day. Within reason, say yes to whatever your kids ask of you that day. “Mom. Can I have two cookies?” Yes. “Mom. Can we play outside?” Yes. “Mom. Can we watch a movie?” Yes. If you’re faced with a request you don’t feel comfortable saying yes to (“Mom, can I have a hundred dollars?”) rephrase it to make it applicable to your lifestyle. “What do you need a hundred dollars for? Sure. Let’s play Monopoly, and you can have several hundred dollars right off the bat.”
Staycations are when you stay home during your vacation. Stay + Vacation = Staycation. I have mixed feelings about Staycations. I love the relaxed day-to-day grind of not having to be anywhere at a certain time but I get nervous thinking about the bickering that will inevitably happen between my three kids. At 10, 7, and 5, they sure know how to go from the sweetest of babes to the scariest of human beings in the short amount of time it takes me to make a quick phone call. It’s impressive. It’s ok though, because I have a plan. In fact, I’ve devoted this entire article to sharing all of my ideas with you about what you can do to make your Staycation a fun one. Enjoy!
C
– Clean out the closets. I know this probably doesn’t sound like much fun, but you can make it fun. Make a pile for each one of your kids that says Toss, Donate, Sell. Make three simple signs with a marker and white paper and lay them on the floor. Give your kids instructions on things that might go into each pile. Depending on the ages of your children, you may need to stay with them in their rooms while they do this. Teach them the logic behind clearing out clutter and making room for new things or simply, down-sizing. You can’t have a Staycation Spring Break without at least one day of cleaning. Think of a reward you can do afterward for everyone’s hard work. – Arts & Crafts. We love arts and crafts so much in our family that we have entire areas devoted just to storing different kinds of materials. Part of the pantry is designated for playdough, beads, and slime, while one of the cupboards in the laundry room holds mountains of coloring books, crayons, and markers. Your Staycation is the perfect time to break out those freshly sharpened pencils and use up random stickers that have found their way into your home. – Take the dogs for a walk. This was part of our family’s New Year’s Resolution, and I’m proud to say that we have stuck to it! Use this time at home with your kids to make a new routine or continue a new habit like walking the dogs. Don’t have dogs? That’s ok. You can get outside and take a walk as a family. The weather might be nice enough to get the bikes out, and your youngest might even ask you to take her training wheels off. Staycations can be a time when firsts happen.
A
T
I
– Ice Cream. If your town has a local place to get ice cream, take your kids to get their favorite milkshakes or sundaes. Take turns trying samples of different flavors, and make sure you get a cone for yourself. Kids like to see their parents joining in on the fun. – Outside. Need I say more? Kids do best when they are able to use their imaginations. Get them outdoors where the possibilities are endless. A breath of fresh air always brings new thoughts and energy, and what better time to get your kids outside than during a Staycation? It’s way more fun to go outdoors when you have no time limits.
O
N
– Netflix & Naps. Everyone needs to hunker down from time-to-time. Use this year’s Staycation to watch your kids’ favorite movie or start a new family-friendly television series. Better yet, include naps in your daily schedule and carve in time for more margin in your life as well as your kids’ lives. Rest is good for everyone.
Use this year’s Spring Break Staycation list to get your creative juices flowing. You never know, Staycations might be your new favorite thing.
Connection Magazine | 21
cutest kid Grace Isabella Gonzales, 11-month-old daughter of Robert and Whitney Gonzales of Cassville
Congratulations
Grace!
Email your child’s photo to: connection@monett-times.com
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 younger. The photos submitted will be used for the sole purpose of this contest.
22 | March 2019
NOw ENROllINg 3 Years and Older Where learning is fun!
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822 W. Mount Vernon Blvd., Mt.Vernon, MO Please call 417-466-7654 for more information. Connection Magazine | 23
Total Eye Care Takes A Team Ken Neu, MD; Ben Haden, MD; Michael Engleman, OD; and Matt Smith, OD, are here in Monett to serve you and your family, bringing together a full range of eye care services close to home. • Eye exams & glasses/contact lens fittings • Non-surgical treatment for eye diseases & conditions • Cataract & LASIK surgery consultations • Management of glaucoma & macular degeneration Request an appointment.
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healthy connection
Don’t kid your kidneys
K
idneys are the main filtration system of the body and help rid the body of toxins, excess water, sodium, and water-soluble vitamins; this process creates urine. When our kidneys are put through stress, they do not filter out these items, and they instead build up within our body. The kidney is also responsible for making hormones that help regulate blood pressure, red blood cells, and calcium absorption for strong bones. When these processes are being minimally completed or not at all this can lead to chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys cannot sufficiently filter blood to excrete or remove the excess substances in your body. This disease occurs over several years, and if left untreated the kidney will begin to fail and will require dialysis to filter the blood in the body. Those who are more predisposed to acquiring this disease include those with a family history, heart disease, or diabetes. When the kidney is not functioning optimally, minerals such as potassium and phosphorus can be retained and build up in the blood stream to dangerous levels. A “renal diet” will be unique to each patient depending on the progression of the disease. When diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, a registered dietitian can help in teaching what foods to avoid to reduce symptoms and preserve kidney function, based on an individual’s situation. Foods to limit may include those high in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium, alcohol, and high fat foods. Recommendations for sodium are to limit consumption to less than 2,000 milligrams per day. Ways to do this include eating fresh fruits and vegetables, unprocessed meats, limit eating out, use spices and herbs for seasoning, and rinse canned vegetables and meats before eating. For protein, focus on lean cuts of meat, low-fat dairy, and eggs. Alcohol recommendations state no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two for men, but to improve kidney function it is best to avoid alcohol entirely.
Phosphorus is a mineral that is found in several foods. If indicated by your doctor or registered dietitian, some foods to avoid would be large amounts of animal proteins, bran cereals and oatmeal, and dark-colored sodas. Foods that are lower in phosphorus include fruits and vegetables, bread, pasta, rice, and corn and rice cereals. Lastly is potassium; when there is too much potassium in the body it affects the muscles and can cause spasms. Foods high in potassium include oranges, bananas, orange juice, potatoes, tomatoes, bran cereals, whole-wheat grains, beans and nuts. Lower-potassium foods include apples, peaches, carrots, green beans, white grains, apple, grape, and cranberry juice.
What can you do to prevent kidney disease? Make healthy food choices by eating 3-5 servings of fruits and veggies a day, lean protein, whole grains, and cutting back on salt and sugar intake. Make sure to be physically active based on your doctor’s recommendations. Aim for a healthy weight, plenty of sleep, stop tobacco use, and manage diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. These healthy choices will help prevent chronic kidney disease and help promote a healthy lifestyle.
Shelby gray graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nutrition from the University of Central Arkansas, and is now completing her Master’s in Nutrition Diagnostics and internship at Cox College. She has a passion for culinary nutrition and educating others.
Connection Magazine | 25
What did you eat today? Nutrition, fitness is a lifestyle
N
A salad bar is a great option for a health-conscious meal. Greens and a variety of vegetables give people many of the nutrients that they need. Sandra Tygart, cook at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, prepares the daily salad bar in the cafeteria. 26 | March 2019
ational Nutrition Month falls in March, and it is an annual nutrition education and information campaign by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It is focused on making good food choices and healthy physical activity habits. National Nutrition Week started in March 1973, and with an increasing interest of nutrition from the public, it became National Nutrition Month in 1980. According to an article from eatright.org, to allow greater flexibility in the promotion of healthful messages, starting in 2019 National Nutrition Month (NNM) will be honored as its own theme. This will allow the NNM campaign to focus on its original purpose, which is: “To increase the public’s awareness of the importance of good nutrition and position Academy members as the authorities in nutrition.” Donna Medlin, registered dietitian at Mercy Hospital Cassville, said the best tip is probably to start slowly and take small steps whether people are trying to change eating or exercise habits.
Story and photos by Jordan Privett
“The benefits of eating healthy and exercise are that it helps to prevent the risk of chronic diseases like, diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers,” she said. “I would say to not ever leave out any food group, you want to make at least half of your plate non starchy vegetables, and about half of your grain intake should be whole grains.” Medlin said something that has become very popular are extreme diet fads. “Those can do harm over the long term,” she said. “If you are going to do it, it needs to be medially monitored.” According to Medlin, anytime someone gives up large groups of food for a long period of time, it gets very difficult to follow. “It is a diet, it’s not a lifestyle,” she said. “What we want to have is people with a healthy eating lifestyle.” Medlin said as far as exercise, people will say that they can’t do 30 minutes of exercise so they don’t do anything. ‘Research shows that if you can exercise in two 15 minute blocks, or three 10 minutes blocks, that is certainly helpful,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be 30 minutes at one time or nothing.” Medlin said people also need resistance training like weight lifting, as well as cardio exercise. “At the beginning of the year a lot of people try to join gyms, but you don’t have to spend money on that,” she said. “Pick something you like to do, and that you can afford to do. If you have a dog, you know they are great walking partners.” According to Medlin, people start things very intensely, and if they miss a day or two, they give up.
Rita Rogers walked on a treadmill as part of her efforts to stay in her best health. She and her husband visit the Mercy Fitness Center in Cassville at least three times a week.
“What we want to have is people with a healthy eating lifestyle”
Connection Magazine | 27
There is nothing healthier than natural ingredients. Sandra Tygart, a cook at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, prepares fruit bowls for the cafeteria. The hospital aims to offer healthy and tasty options for employees and patients. (right) Registered Dietitian Donna Medlin at Cassville Mercy Hospital, has worked in this field for more than 40 years. “The point is to keep going and not give up,” she said. “That is how you turn health into a lifestyle.” Medlin said continuous healthy eating habits are getting something from every food group. “Also though, trying not to eat unneeded added sugar,” she said. “As humans, we are probably going to eat some, but the trick is to not over do it.” Medlin said she encourages people to eat whole foods and foods that are real—not processed. “If you see an ingredient list, and you don’t know what they are, maybe there is a more natural product that you can find,” she said. Medlin said that there are so many nutrition messages out there that can 28 | March 2019
confuse people. “Nutrition is still an evolving science,” she said. “Information about it can change, but eatright.org is a great site for people to follow to get current information about nutrition and fitness.” Medlin has been a registered dietitian for more than 40 years. “I enjoy working with people and getting to know them on a long term basis,” she said. “The term registered dietitian means that you have to at least have a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, sit through a national exam, be licensed through the state, and you have to continue your education to stay current.” Medlin said there is a huge difference between a registered dietitian and
Courtesy photo
a nutritionist. “Some nutritionists may have degrees, but they are not licensed through the state and are not registered,” she said. “They may or may not have the education to back up what they are telling people.” Medlin said as a registered dietitian she doesn’t try to get people to just lose weight, she helps people be the healthiest they can be through their diet. “I also focus on medical conditions, and nutrients that you may need to change related to specific medical conditions,” she said. For more information about seeking a registered dietitian people may contact Donna Medlin at Mercy Hospital in Cassville at 417-847-6000. n
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Connection Magazine | 29
Dynamic Strides Therapy to offer all-in-one treatment center
Jennifer Garner, left, doctor of physical therapy and clinic manager at Dynamic Strides Therapy in Republic, and Brandi O’Reilly, doctor of physical therapy and board president, enthuse at the newly installed ball pit at Dynamic Strides Therapy, which offers an all-in-one treatment center for pediatric patients.
30 | March 2019
A new approach to help special needs children
O
n a quiet farm northeast of Republic, a special facility unique to southwest Missouri is dedicated to “Opening More Doors” to children with special needs. Dynamic Strides Therapy, a non-profit outpatient pediatric clinic, opened in February 2018, and offers physical, occupational and speech therapies to children, along with hippotherapy, using horses as tools to help young clients develop core strength and improve sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems. Jennifer Garner, doctor of physical therapy and clinic manager, said results for patients using hippotherapy systems in the climate-controlled barn have proved to be more than just beneficial. “We have seen huge progress,” she said. “We aren’t limited to a few months here. Our clients don’t get that break that usually comes with winter, that’s when they tend to lose a little bit [of progress]. With the year-round availability here, they can continue to receive services even during inclement weather.”
Story and photos by Melonie Roberts
Horses are vetted for temperament and trainability and, most importantly, size. “We don’t use horses over 14 or 14-and-a-half hands high,” Garner said. “They have to be healthy, calm, and not spook around toys or kids that are screaming, kicking or even hitting. We’re currently looking for donated horses, but, even then, only about one out of 10 offered will meet our needs. They have to be pretty much ready to hit the ground working, because we don’t have time or staff to train them. It takes a special horse to do what they do.” Barbara Joyce, on staff equine professional, finds, trains, monitors horse health and their handlers. “We wouldn’t be able to provide hippotherapy without our amazing volunteers,” said Brandi O’Reilly, doctor of physical therapy and board member for Dynamic Strides Therapy. “Every time we have a client on the horse, we have to have a horse handler and a volunteer walk beside the client for their safety. We have an amazing group of volunteers who are consistently here to help groom and tack the horses for therapy sessions.”
Horses at Dynamic Strides Therapy in Republic have a dedicated equine manager, that oversees their health and well-being, places proper limitations on work schedules for each animal, ensures all their nutritional needs are met.
We have an amazing group of volunteers who are consistently here to help groom and tack the horses for therapy sessions.
Connection Magazine | 31
Sarah Jones, physical therapist at Dynamic Strides Therapy in Republic, offers encouragement to a client using the Lite Gait to further develop her walking skills. The center offers a wide variety of physical, occupational and speech therapies, as well as equine hippotherapy.
So far, the youngest client to receive hippotherapy is three years of age, and the oldest is 21. “We offer a full clinic here, so we can work with infants from birth,” O’Reilly said. “Early intervention is so vital to success,” Garner said. “We work with clients that have suffered brain injuries, those with genetic and chromosomal issues, and those with developmental delays involving fine and gross motor skills or speech.” Clients currently receive services as often as needed, anywhere between once a week to six times per week, depending on the prescribing doctor’s orders. On a tour through the treatment center, we found Sarah Jones, physical therapist, assisting the daughter of Heather Follis on the Lite Gait treadmill. “We work with her about every hours at home,” Follis said. “We either hold her hands or she’s on her walker. This is her second week on the Lite Gait. She’s afraid of falling down. The straps give her a little support, but she is mostly doing it on her own.” “She has improved by leaps and bounds just since last week,” Jones said. Follis called out encouragement to her daughter, telling her she was doing a good job, before she resumed her story. “She’s been in physical therapy since she was one year old,” Follis said. “This is the most independent state she has ever been in. We just keep making progress.
32 | March 2019
“Some day, I’d like her to be able to walk beside me and hold my hand,” Follis said. The clinic is adding a sensory gym where children of all abilities can play in a sensory-safe environment. “We will have a ball pit, a zip line and a six-point attachment swing,” Garner said. “We have a small bike path and a pretend play area for toddlers, as well as rock tunnels, stairs, a scooter board ramp and ropes.” The sensory gym will be open to sib-
lings of clients for sensory safe play. Following a capital campaign drive later this year, they will break ground on a swimming pool for aquatic therapy, eight additional treatment rooms and a classroom. “We want to offer clients and their parents a one-stop facility for whatever therapy is needed,” Garner said. “We do accept insurance and Missouri Medicaid,” O’Reilly said. “But, as a non-profit 501 (C) 3, we can do fundraisers to help bridge the gaps in
Work has just begun on the new sensory gym at Dynamic Strides Therapy in Republic. Workers are installing the bracing to support a 6-point swing for clients and their siblings to enjoy. coverage. So many kids need services and so many other places have Medicaid limitations. We’re willing to take that on because it’s the right thing to do. We shouldn’t have to wait-list a client or discriminate against them because insurance won’t pay or because Medicaid imposes limits on reimbursements.” An annual fundraiser, Harvest Moon,
their largest event, provides sponsors and their guests an evening of entertainment, which includes food and wine pairings and entertainment. Various levels of sponsorship will include dedicated seating, complimentary wine, and at higher sponsorship levels, transportation, accommodations and a private cocktail server at the event, among other perks.
Additional fundraising through Chance in Charge, benefits Camp Barnabas, Music Therapy of the Ozarks and DST. A more casual fundraising opportunity, Pizza and Pints, is a spring event that takes place at Garbo’s, located at Chesterfield Village. Volunteers also have a booth at Relics Antique Mall, where proceeds from those sales benefit DST. Sponsorships are also available for clients of DST, ranging from the Give Therapy level at $150, for one visit, to the Opening More Doors level at $6,000 for 40 visits. “We always need volunteers,” O’Reilly said. “People like our environment,” Garner said. “It’s not as sterile feeling as most hospitals and other clinics. With equine, water therapy and other services, it feels different from where they have been before, and they feel comfortable working to overcome their limitations.” “Ours is a more holistic, all-inclusive approach in an integrated environment,” Garner said. “We set up obstacle courses that engage our kids and set up small competitions. The kids like being able to see what their friends can do.” “Our therapists love their family of clients,” O’Reilly said. “We’re a close-knit community where clients and everybody becomes friends,” Garner said. “We get to share the highs, the lows and everything in between.” For more information, visit dstherapy.org or visit Dynamic Strides Therapy on Facebook. n
Connection Magazine | 33
Happy St. Patrick’s Day from the employees
Continuing the Legacy We understand being in the same business for generations. We also understand you’ve worked hard to secure a future for your family. Years of commitment and dedication have helped get you to where you are today. Let me help navigate the next step to assure your family is able to continue the legacy for future generations.
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Terri Lynn DeGraffenreid Brattin, LUTCF Agent
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34 | March 2019
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Guest columnist pam wormington
Lone Ranger A and Tonto
m I right, the Lone Ranger wasn’t really alone, because he had Tonto? Perhaps this story would have a different ending if I rode a horse and carried a tomahawk or smoked a peace pipe. Am I right, when asked if I can help the rancher catch a sick calf that it is going to take longer than five minutes and you better change clothes? I already know the answer to both questions. If you are a farm wife, you do too. The adorable fall calves were born, but a few had a case of the scours, which we are diligent about catching early and treating. It seems like the calves are not nearly as sick as we think when we attempt to catch them. They can run faster than any ATV making a roundup in the Ranger a bit like a scene from the Dukes of Hazzard. Let me just tell you that I am a firm believer that if a vehicle was designed with four tires, then they all four need to be on the ground at the same time. Apparently, I am alone on the range with that philosophy.
This particular #26 was not only cute, but also sly and fast.
This wet afternoon, which I believe it was our anniversary, I got the routine question, “Can you help me doctor a calf? It won’t take long, just throw on your rubber boots.” In my mind, this means tootling out to the pasture and standing next to the Ranger handing him the meds, while he administers them … kind of like Nurse not so Goodbody. As my new T-shirt says “Well that didn’t go as planned.” This particular #26 was not only cute, but also sly and fast.
pam wormington
Connection Magazine | 35
s Collision Center ’ n e K The Area’s Finest Collision Repair Facility
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Ken’s Collision Center – when it’s time to focus on the details!
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Happy St. Patrick’s Day! May the road rise up to meet you on your way to The Jane Store! Delicious bakery treats Large variety of enamelware Hand-dipped ice cream Old-fashioned bulk candy & spices
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36 | March 2019
She knew we were looking for her, and she not only hid behind other cows and in the tall grass, she managed to weave in and out of the herd and zig zag like a squirrel crossing the road. The determination to treat this problem was accelerated by the rancher who heard me scream “STOP and let me out NOW!” I also don’t believe that just because something can go 100 mph that it needs too. Maybe that is a little exaggerated for an ATV. I am talking about the Ranger side by side. In our younger days, it was a four-wheeler. Fear had overcome me as I thought about such shows as the Dukes of Hazzard or Smoky and the Bandit when meadow muffins began to fly past me. Actually, not all of them flew passed me. If you live on a farm, you know grass and water is not an easy mixture to get out of your clothes and not a pleasant aroma on your skin. I tried to close my eyes and pray but my faith was not big enough to keep me from wanting to see the accident that I knew I was about to be a participant in. In my mind, the calf’s life wasn’t worth more than mine and clearly, she was out-running us, so she wasn’t as sick as I was at that moment. Now if you ask the rancher, he would tell you he wasn’t driving irrational or reckless. Me and #26 have another perspective. And as my friend Cynthia says, “Your perspective is your reality.” Usually there is a moral to every story, and I am not sure what it is in this situation. Perhaps when asked the notorious question, I should just say NO! But then, what if I got fired? Now there’s a thought…
P.O. Box 405 • 111 S. Market St. • Mt. Vernon 417.466.2800 • fax: 417.466.3066 Toll Free: 1.800.748.7756
Just like the Lone Ranger needed Tonto, I guess the rancher needs his wife. That’s what he tells me, so I will just ride off into the sunset believing that.
A roofing tale
T
he arrival of spring heralds the onset of thunderstorm season and its mixed bag of challenges to our roofs—that part of our house we don’t give much thought to, as long as it’s functioning properly. As roofers, contractors and insurance agents can attest, though, it pays to be proactive about roof maintenance or replacement. According to the Good News Translation, the writer of Ecclesiastes says, “When you’re too lazy to repair your roof, it will leak.” While I can’t speak for all homeowners, laziness is not necessarily the reason for a neglected roof. Sometimes it’s money, or lack thereof. A roof replacement is a costly investment.
When I purchased my home some years ago, I was told that the roof had several years of life left in it. Since I’d just completed a full remodel on the interior of the house, I thought, “I’ll wait a while on the roof.” The years passed quickly, though, and, soon enough, the knowledge that I would need a roof replacement began looming over me. Given its steep pitch and multiple peaks and valleys, I suspected that I would be looking at spending a minimum of $10,000—money I didn’t have readily at hand. My inclination was to freeze like the proverbial deer, and succumb to the magical thinking that my roof would prove to be the exception to the rule, the one that would last forever.
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2. Interlocking metal tiles are relatively new on the market and offer the durability and light weight of metal, but have the appearance of slate. Although they are pricey, they offer stunning visual appeal.
3. Wood shake shingles
are environmentally-friendly and offer superior durability, but must be kept free of debris which could potentially cause mold or mildew. Wood shingles are also more susceptible to fire.
1. Slate and tile shingles are all around top-of-the-line for appearance and durability. Because of their weight, a home’s substructure must be capable of supporting them. Their price tag, too, is hefty.
Although the initial cost can seem prohibitive, a new roof will increase your home’s value, sometimes the equivalent of the amount spent on the improvement.
38 | March 2019
Because I’m learning that most conundrums don’t get solved by white-washing them, I finally mustered the initiative to call local roofer Sergio Perez, of S. Perez Roofing & Remodel. While it’s usually best to get more than one estimate for high-ticket home repairs, I was familiar with average roof prices in the area, and also confident that Sergio would treat me fairly. Plus, I had seen local samples of his workmanship, so I had no doubt about his ability. Turns out, his estimate for my roof replacement was not far off the amount I had guessed. Although I knew my roofing job would be a large undertaking, I
was surprised to learn just how large. From the ground, Sergio pointed upward at the overhang of my roof, where multiple layers of shingles were visible. “Do you see those wood shingles on the bottom layer?” he asked. With his prompting, I did. “Those wood shingles are original to your house,” he continued. “That means there is no decking below them.” According to Sergio, in the early 1900s when my house was built, it was a common practice to attach wood shingles to narrow strips of wood lathe spanning the distance between rafters. Because
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4. Standard metal roofs
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STIHL future owners were disinclined to do a full roof replacement and add sheets of plywood decking as a base, they’d simply added multiple layers of shingles over the years: four to be exact. “It will all have to come off and we’ll have to lay some decking,” Sergio informed me. “Your roof won’t bear the weight of another layer of shingles.” A bit dismayed, but with an estimate finally in hand, I took the next step: I talked to my insurance agent about the possibility of reimbursement for my replacement. I was told that a claims adjuster would be sent to my house to assess my roof for wind and hail damage. If he found any, compensation could be
given for a percentage of the cost of repairs. Damage was indeed found. I then approached my lender to discuss options for covering the balance of the cost. Home equity loans are available for home repairs, but I opted to refinance my mortgage, with cash out allotted for the new roof. Although I was charged closing costs, I was able to considerably reduce the interest rate on my mortgage, which, in turn, lowered my monthly payments. The end result was a valuable learning experience for me, plus a roof I don’t have to wonder about when the March winds begin to blow. Provided they don’t bring hail or a tornado, of course. n
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Connection Magazine | 39
There’s gold in those grapes Southwest Missourian finds success as wine maker in Indiana
40 | March 2019
L
ife sometimes leads in odd directions, and often makes life a richer experience because of it. Take the case of Pamela Hemmerling. A Barry County native and resident for 52 years, the daughter of Ruby Wilks and the late Alfred Higgins of Purdy and the granddaughter of Pete and Effie Henderson Bennett, she and her husband David ended up in Indiana. She had an interest in growing grapes, and decided to try it on an Indiana farm. What resulted was amazing. She became an award-winning wine maker, and is now looking at bringing her skills back to Missouri. “I thought I could grow grapes because I grew up on a farm east of Purdy, and I was in 4-H,” Hemmerling recalled. “I had participated in horticulture where I started rose bushes from leaves and grafted new varieties. I had also been successful growing blackberries and raspberries from new cane cuttings. Viticulture is very similar in that I am starting new vines from trimmed canes each spring.” Starting a wine vineyard is a bit
Story by Murray Bishoff
more complicated than growing native fruits. Hemmerling tried experimenting, and her venture grew from there. “The soil is quite different here [in Indiana] and has a lot of sand in it,” Hemmerling said. “My love of winemaking began in the 1980s on trips with friends to the beautiful German community of Hermann, which sits on the Missouri River. David and I are both from German ancestry. During the month of October, each weekend, the wineries in the Hermann area celebrate with thousands of people each year.” Well before that, Hemmerling’s childhood experiences shaped her interest in agriculture. The family farm provided corn, wheat and hay, in addition to garden produce. “In grade school, I milked cows before getting ready for school and after school trained horses,” Hemmerling said. “In 1970, I ran for Miss Rodeo Missouri, using my horse Sunny, and barrel raced on a horse men couldn’t ride during high school.” The Hemmerlings started Mustang Villa in Indiana, where they had horses, and she started experimenting with growing grapes.
Connection Magazine | 41
“My first wine was pressed on the Hemmerling wood press that was handed down through their family,” she recalled. “David’s family made wine in their family cellar in a large glass carboy. This was shared with friends who visited and played music with David’s dad. I dreamed of making wine and was encouraged by David to enter my wine in the WineMaker Magazine contest in Napa, California. In 2014, I entered two wines—Dark Moon and Tantilizing, which were a combination of fruit and grapes that I grew. In a few weeks, I received notice that I had earned a rating of 17 out of 20, which gave me a third place or bronze. This was also an international competition. I had three carboys, hoses, fermentor buckets, and a few chemicals in the basement of our house.” There’s nothing like success to motivate even bigger trials and risks. With nothing to lose, Hemmerling dove in. “In 2016, I purchased additional grape varieties, started adding equipment as I could afford it. A de-stemmer/crusher, a bladder press, bottle capper, scales for chemicals, and other testing equipment. David supplied me with plastic 15-gallon and 25-gallon fermentors from the plastics company. It was very difficult locating pesticides 42 | March 2019
and fungus control locally for the vineyard. Almost all chemicals are sold in bulk but thanks to eBay.com, I was able to find what I needed to spray every 10 days until the grapes are picked. “Weather plays a significant role in all agriculture, so at Christmas I got a Davis Weather Station. David has been instrumental in keeping my spraying equipment running; the four-wheeler, tractors and designing trellises. David can fix anything, and we have been able to purchase used equipment that saved us out-of-pocket expenses.” That led to entering more contests, which led to more surprises. “The most important success came from the Indy International Competition in 2018 from Purdue University, which had about 3,500 entries this year from all over the world,” she said. “I won two double gold metals and a silver metal [for her Catawba]. I received the 2018 Wine Maker of the Year for a fruit wine, Blackberry [one of the double gold winners, the other being her Little Creek Red]. The icing on the cake was the coveted Eagle trophy that only a few wineries have received.” Her entries also won three bronze medals for her 2017 vintages of Dark Moon and Red Raspberry and the 2016 vintage of Very Berry.
Hemmerling didn’t fully appreciate the breadth of her achievement until she and David stopped at the St. James Winery, the largest wine distributor in the U.S., during a Missouri trip last September. “The first thing David wanted to see was how many trophies they had from Purdue,” she recalled. “They have one. St. James told me it was a very
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coveted award. Estate wines that receive a double gold or trophy sell for a minimum of $50 a bottle. My silver would sell for $39. “Needless to say, my success in 2018, with my estate wine was a surprise. I grow all of my fruits and grapes and all are fermented in my basement. I also create my own recipes for my combination wines. I also make my own fermentor bags.” Hemmerling now grows grapes in the varieties of Catawba, Cayuga, Chambourcin, Ives, Niagara and Norton. She named her wines and vineyard after her mustang, Jackson, from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. “I owe a great deal of my success to my mother, Ruby Bennett Higgins, for my ability to understand the chemistry of food and my ability to sew at an early age,” Hemmerling said. “She taught home economics in high school at Purdy and the college in Miami, Okla. [Northeast Oklahoma A&M College]. Also, the opportunity that I was given by the 4-H Extension with the University of Missouri, where I won state awards in clothing design and foods preparation. I also have to thank Christian Butzke and Jill Blume with Purdue University for their encouragement and wealth of information.” With all this success, the Hemmerlings are now eyeing a return to Missouri and continuing their adventure in agriculture. “I believe that I can adapt grapes to Missouri soil with the same success as I have had in Indiana,” she said. “Each vintage of wine will taste different because of the weather conditions. It can be challenging, but I believe that I would have the same success in Missouri as in Indiana.” With her successes, other challenges seem equally inviting, especially on old stomping grounds. n
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: PEO
A community of sisters
Organization celebrates 150 years of women helping women
A
n organization started in 1869, will celebrate 150 years of philanthropic endeavors this year, continuing the pursuit of women helping women. The Philanthropic Educational Organization, or P.E.O., has been quietly changing the lives of women since it was founded by seven women in the music hall of Iowa Wesleyan University at Mt. Pleasant. They were Mary Allen, Alice Bird, Hattie Briggs, Alice Coffin, Suela Pearson, Franc Roads and Ella Stewart. Today, more than 12,000 members belong to P.E.O. Chapters around the world. Of those, 6,000 chapters are located in the United States and Canada, and 300 of those are in Missouri. Monett has two chapters, KW and CN. “I’ve been with CN for 30 years,” said Mary Young. “That chapter was founded April 13, 1916.” Genny Maroc, who moved to Monett from Marengo, Iowa, for a job checked out the community before committing to the move. “I checked for local P.E.O. chapters and for area churches,” she said. “I’ve been with the KW chapter for 11 years.” One thing that unites these women from chapters across the nation is the overall goal of P.E.O. to celebrate the advancement of women, educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College. They also help motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.
46 | March 2019
“I feel like we do a lot of good,” said Georgeanne Wormington, a member of CN chapter for 15 years. Chapter members support six philanthropic efforts: Cottey College, the Education Loan Fund, the International Peace Scholarship Fund, the Program for Continuing Education; Scholar Awards and the STAR Scholarship. Cottey College is a fully accredited liberal arts and sciences college for women. Cottey offers baccalaureate and associate degree programs, leadership opportunities and arts and athletics programs. The college, owned and supported by P.E.O. chapters since 1927, is the only nonsectarian institution of higher learning in the nation that is solely owned and supported by women. The Educational Loan Fund is a revolving loan fund established in 1907. Qualified women can borrow money to assist in securing a higher education. The International Peace Scholarship Fund was established in 1949 to provide scholarships to international Cottey students who wish to pursue graduate study programs in the United States and Canada. The Program for Continuing Education was established in 1973 to provide need-based grants to women in the U.S. and Canada who had their education interrupted and find it necessary to return to school to support themselves and/or their families. The Scholar Awards provides merit-based awards for women in the U.S. and Canada pursuing doctoral level degrees at an accredited college or university.
Story and photos by Melonie Roberts
Mary Young, Jenny Maroc and Georgeanne Wormington review some of the earliest P.E.O. scrapbooks stored at the Monett Museum. Monett has two P.E.O. chapters that support a variety of philanthropic causes.
Finally, the Star Scholarship, established in 2009, provides funds to exceptional high school senior women to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada in the next academic year. To date, three Monett graduates have received the STAR Scholarship. One project, specific to Missouri, is the The Outreach Fund, which helps the aged and/or infirm with special needs. They may be long term needs such as providing mortgage or rent payments. It also helps with one time needs with such things as eye glasses, dentures, wheelchairs and like items. These project recipients are held extremely confidential.
Pictured is one of the earliest membership books from P.E.O. Chapter CN in Monett. The local chapter formed in April 1916.
Connection Magazine | 47
National and international members of the P.E.O. Sisterhood will celebrate the organization’s 150 anniversary this year. The seven original founders, Mary Allen, Alice Bird, Hattie Briggs, Alice Coffin, Suela Pearson, Franc Roads and Ella Stewart, started the organization in the music hall of Iowa Wesleyan University at Mt. Pleasant in 1869.
(left) Mary Young peruses one of the many detailed P.E.O. scrapbooks stored at the Monett Museum.
Monies to support these programs are raised through various fundraisers throughout the year. “We sell poinsettias at Christmas,” Young said. “We also bring wonderful, funny things to our Christmas auction, and have fun auctioning off our treasures.” “When we had the Monett Garage Sale, we all got together and pooled our things,” said Maroc, a member of KW chapter. “It was very profitable. Also, each person brings items to donate to the silent auction. Once we were told to come to the meeting with an accurate count of the total number of shoes in our closets. We had to pay according to the number of shoes we had. Another time, we passed the Christmas sock around and donated all of our loose change. It was surprising how quickly it added up.” Chapters also support local philanthropic programs. “We support the Ozark Festival Orchestra and Camp Barnabas,” Wormington said. “It’s isn’t all work. The two chapters have a lot of socials together, which is always fun.” To date, P.E.O. more than 105,000 project recipients have received more than $321 million in funding.
48 | March 2019
But, the most important part of these groups is the sense of community they bring to members. “Having so many sisters, the wonderful care and the way we support each other,” Young said. “If I have a need, I pick up the phone and know somebody’s going to be there. We are a community.” Maroc feels the same. “It’s wonderful having that support and network of women who care about you and about helping others,” she said. “We’re family.” “When I first joined, I got to know the ladies that I’d only heard about,” Wormington said. “They were wonderful mentors.” “We are women of all ages, different backgrounds, different skills and we blend together as one,” Young said. “We’re very unified.” Members of Chapter CN have set these goals for the remainder of the year: to invite two women to join the chapter; participate in at least one new fundraising activity; find at least one project candidate; and continue to keep in close contact with its designated Cottey College student and STAR Scholarship recipient. Wormington said local P.E.O. memorabilia will be on display at the Monett Museum later in the year. For more information on P.E.O. visit www.peointernational.org. n
Living silent Sara Farmer meets challenges both ways
in a hearing world
S
ara Farmer, 16, of Pierce City, wasn’t always hard of hearing. “She would get ear infections and run high fevers with every tooth she cut,” said her father,” Jeremiah Farmer. “She was two or three years old before we noticed she was having problems. The infections and fevers affected the nerves in her ears, and we were told the loss was significant.” At her last hearing test, Sara’s audiologist reported her hearing level at 65 decibels or higher, the equivalent of a hearing-capable person standing about three feet from a vacuum cleaner. “I can hear a little bit,” Sara said. “I have hearing aids. Since I was used to hearing at one time, so I think it’s easier for me than for someone who was born deaf.” Still, to accommodate her special circumstances, Jeremiah enrolled her in the Missouri School for the Deaf at Fulton when she entered fifth grade. “It’s just like any other public school, except some of the teachers are
Story and photos by Melonie Roberts
Sara Farmer, 16, of Pierce City, took her father’s truck out to gain some additional experience behind the wheel. Although she has suffered a major hearing loss due to illness as a toddler, Farmer, with hearing devices, was able to detect a vehicle approaching with its siren activated from about two car lengths behind. deaf and some aren’t,” Sara said. “All of our classes are taught in sign language, and all of the students are either deaf or hard of hearing.” Sara is active in sports, playing volleyball, basketball, running track and cheering. The difference between schools specializing in educating hearing-impaired students and traditional
public schools is when there is an away game. “We play against teams from Kansas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, South Dakota and Oklahoma, to name a few,” Sara said. “They are all located in midwestern states.” Which means trips home are sometimes few and far between.
Connection Magazine | 49
Sara Farmer, a volleyball enthusiast, practices her game-winning moves with her stepsister, Tiara Smith, while she was home on a weekend break from the Missouri School for the Deaf in Fulton. “I miss going to public school and being with my family all the time,” she said. “I sometimes stay at school a month or more before I can come home, because of athletics and cheering.” When she does make the occasional trip home, Sara reconnects with old friends and catches up with things taking place in the community and at school. “I still have a lot of friends here,” she said. “So, when we hang out, they help me out a lot. Sometimes they will say something I don’t understand and they will have to repeat it, or write it down, text it or spell it out in sign language.”
50 | March 2019
“She catches on pretty quickly to new words and phrases,” said Jeremiah. “A speech therapist helps her vocalize new words.” “The truly deaf can’t hear their own voice,” Sara added. “So they just make random sounds. Those with hearing aids or cochlear implants can hear their own voice, and they can learn to speak.” Still, there can be challenges making herself understood to those accustomed to living, working and functioning in a hearing world. “We’ve worked on how to communicate with others,” said Angela Farmer, her stepmother. “We make sure she has
access to a phone or paper and a pen if she is going to be out somewhere.” While Sara has learned to read lips, she can’t understand whispers or sounds in certain pitches or frequencies. “I can hear traffic passing near the house,” she said. But, Sara was oblivious to the high pitched whine of a circular saw operating a couple of houses down the street. There are other real-life experiences that Sara will have to adjust to in a hearing environment. Having recently acquired her driver’s permit, Sara enjoys one of the perks of being 16 – driving her father’s truck along the backroads of Lawrence
Sara considers her future beyond high school and hopes to attend Galluadet University in Washington, D.C., to become an elementary teacher, instructing other deaf or hard of hearing students such as herself. County to gain experience behind the wheel. “I’ve gotten better,” Sara said, turning off the radio and lowering the driver’s side window. She carefully checked the rearview mirror before starting the engine and putting the vehicle in gear. Sara listened carefully to her stepmother’s instructions coming from the back seat, heading north out of the city and onto some of the local backroads. Several miles out of town, a vehicle, siren sounding, pulled up to about two car lengths behind the truck before Sara heard the high pitched warble and pulled over, throwing her hands into the air. Angela laughed, calling the driver of the trailing vehicle on the phone. “How was that?” she asked. “Not
too bad. She heard it about the same time I did.” Sara, catching on, was quick to ask, “Was this a test? Why would you do that?” “Because, honey, the police aren’t going to call you ahead of time to let you know they are coming up behind you,” Angela said. “This was just to see how long it took you to hear the siren. You did good.” Instruction at Fulton also includes classes in basic life skills. “I know cooking and laundry,” Sara said. “But they teach courses in personal finance, taxes, how to pay bills, balance a checkbook and things I’ll use every day for the rest of my life.” She considers her future beyond high school and hopes to attend Galluadet University in Washington, D.C.,
Kellie Smith, left, of Pierce City, shows her stepsister, Sara Farmer, a ladybug that landed on her finger. Farmer was visiting her family in Pierce City on a weekend break from the Missouri School for the Deaf at Fulton.
to become an elementary teacher, instructing other deaf or hard of hearing students such as herself. “My math teacher is the one who notices that I interact and get along with younger students well,” she said. “I think I’d like to work with kids in first through third grades.” But Washington, D.C., is quite a distance, geographically and culturally, from the quiet, small-town Americana community of Pierce City. “Sometimes she gets homesick being at Fulton, which is four hours away,” Angela said. “I’m not sure how she would feel about being as far away as Galluadet.” And missing her family is only part of the reason Sara wants to return to Pierce City and finish her high school career in a mainstream environment. “They can’t challenge her anymore,” Angela said. “Most of my classes are easy,” Sara said. “I get easy A’s, and I don’t like that. The only class I’m having any problem in is English, and most of that is the amount of homework assigned and subjects I haven’t learned yet. I like being challenged academically, and I think transitioning into public school would provide that. I think staying at home for awhile is probably best for me.” Having maintained those early childhood friendships will help that transition greatly. “I’m just hoping it’s better for me academically and socially,” Sara said of her transition into mainstreamed classes. “But mostly, I’ll be happy to be able to spend more time with my family.” n
Connection Magazine | 51
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 Cutest Pet contest. Email your pet’s photo to:
connection@monett-times.com 52 | March 2019
Luna is a 9-month-old Great Dane owned by Haley Jereczek and Matthew Hagan of Cassville
Luna
Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. Remember to include your pet’s name, city of residence and your contact information.
Sharing stories of community caring
I
t takes a Village – we have all heard that many times, but it is especially true when it comes to animal rescues and shelters. Here are some amazing figures just for Faithful Friends:
2018 Animals taken in,
397
2018 Animals adopted, transferred or returned to owner,
404
In January 2019 alone, we took in over 70 dogs and cats, and are literally bursting at the seams! We have had some help from two outside organizations, Crowder College’s Vet Tech program has taken some puppies and the students, under supervision, are learning to take care of them, work with them and get them adopted. The other is Great Plains SPCA in Kansas City. This organization is very successful in placing animals with adopters and is also a No Kill organization, like Faithful Friends. Many of the larger cities, due to stricter animal control regulations, are able to take in animals from other shelters for adoption.
Rescued, My favorite breed
Faithful Friends is a relatively small shelter with 20 kennels for adoptable dogs and 8 kennels in the intake area. On the cat side, we have 16 cat condos for adoptable cats and an intake area for 11 cats. We also use and maintain an isolation unit each for dogs and cats. In a single day, we use a minimum of four bowls for each dog and cat; one for water and one for food, both are changed at least twice a day. Even figuring only one dog or cat per kennel or condo, and not including the ISO units, we wash an estimated 220 bowls per day! That is more than 80,000 bowls a year! Just think of the dish pan hands and yes, we do wash them by hand. The amount of laundry, especially when we have puppies that are not potty trained, is surprising. In one year, blankets, towels and washable toys would probably stack as high as the Statue of Liberty. And it takes lots of laundry, cleaning and disinfecting solutions.
The Boydt Family
And we do all that with dedicated folks consisting of our board, a few staff members and a number of volunteers. Dedication, experience and love of animals shows in everything each of them do. If you were to stop by the adoption center, you would notice first of all that the animals love the people that take care of them, there is no hesitation when they run to the humans to get petted, to give kisses or to be played with.
Christa stout
Connection Magazine | 53
This is where Tobin and his family come in. Tobin is a 9-yearold youngster who, as part of his New Year’s resolution, decided that 2019 should be a year of fundraising for Faithful Friends and volunteering. He has already reached his goal of $700 in donations.
As always, here are some more adoptable animals at Faithful Friends:
But that’s not all, he and his sister Nora have created several Facebook videos to help find forever homes for the animals at Faithful Friends (two of the videos already led to adoptions). And still, that’s not all, he and his family volunteer every Friday night at the adoption center, cleaning kennels and working with cats and dogs. And still, that’s not all, they have also become adopters of a dog and a cat themselves. Nicole Porter, Adoption Center Director says: Tobin and his family have been coming to the shelter regularly for several months. It’s our repeat volunteers like them, that help give us the drive to push forward even on the hardest and most emotional days. The videos that Tobin and his sister Nora make are a big hit on our Facebook page and help promote our animals in a fun spirited way. Tobin and the Boyt family are an inspiration and I hope more people follow in their footsteps and help advocate for the causes they believe in. We are lucky to have them as our advocates. So, this is what a village consists of. Thank you all and for those of you who have not volunteered, give it a try!
UPDATE: Of the 14 pets that have been featured in this column, 10 have found their furever homes. Guinness, O’Malley (dog) and Aries, Ariel (cat) are still waiting for their own families. 54 | March 2019
OTIS is an adorable Labrador retriever mix who was found as a stray and loves to play and run, but then enjoys his calm and restful moments when he can snuggle with his human. Otis is great with dogs and kids and is patiently waiting for his own family.
MORNING GLORY is a beautiful cat who was lost. She loves some petting but is also very independent and just enjoys watching the goings on. She will probably need some time to adjust to a new home with a lot of love and patience. For more information on any of the Faithful Friends animals or to volunteer, go to www.FFAANeosho.org, contact us on Facebook, or by calling the adoption center at 417.592.2512. We always need volunteers and we always have adoptable dogs and cats!
March 2019
Community Calendar March 1 Opening Day at Roaring River State Park. The Cassville Chamber of Commerce will be serving coffee to anglers and give away complimentary mugs on a firstcome, first-served basis, starting at 5 a.m. in the Les Jacobs tent by the CCC Lodge. March 2 The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612.
March 11 Breakfast served at the Cassville Senior Center 8-9:15.
March 21 Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center at 9:00 a.m.
Senior tax preparation available by appointment at the Central Crossing Senior Center. To schedule, call 417-858-6952.
Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob will offer Hearing Wellness at 10 a.m. including hearing screening and hearing aid check.
March 12 Computer Class will be offered at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 12:45 p.m. March 13 Tax counseling for the elderly by appointment only at the Cassville Senior Center. To schedule, please call 417-847-4510.
March 4 The Monthly Dance at the Monett Park Casino will be held with the Timberline Country Band performing. Admission is $5.00. Please bring snacks to share.
Grace Foot Care by appointment at Cassville Senior Center. Call 847-4510.
Senior tax preparation available by appointment at the Central Crossing Senior Center. To schedule, call 417-858-6952.
March 15 St. Patrick’s Day Lunch will be served at the Cassville Senior Center Beginning at 11 a.m.
Notary services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 6 Benefit counseling by appointment at the Cassville Senior Center. Call 847-4510. Blood pressure checks will be taken at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Blood pressure check at Cassville Senior Center at 10:30 a.m. Tax counseling for the elderly by appointment only at the Cassville Senior Center. To schedule, please call 417-847-4510. March 7 Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center at 9:00 a.m. March 8 The ninth annual Trivia Night begins at 7 p.m. at the Cassville High School commons. Up to eight players per team, $15 per person. All proceeds benefit the Cassville Education Fund. March 9 The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417-662-3612.
calendar
March 14 The Cassville Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a Big Vision Day.
The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612. March 18 Senior tax preparation available by appointment at the Central Crossing Senior Center. To schedule, call 417-858-6952. Notary services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 19 Grace Health Services (feet) at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob. Call for an appointment 417-858-6952. March 20 Tax counseling for the elderly by appointment only at the Cassville Senior Center. To schedule, please call 417-847-4510. Blood pressure checks will be taken at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Live music at the Cassville Senior Center 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. provided by the Shell Knob Strings
March 23 The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612. March 25 Nell’s Nails begins at 9 a.m. Call 417-8586952 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob. Breakfast served at the Cassville Senior Center 8-9:15. March 26 Computer Class will be offered at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 12:45 p.m. March 27 Tax counseling for the elderly by appointment only at the Cassville Senior Center. To schedule, please call 417-847-4510. WIC by appointment at the Central Crossing Senior Center. Call 417-847-2114. Nell’s Nails begins at 9 a.m. Call 8474510 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome at the Cassville Senior Center. Health Topic Talk by Susan Rauch begins at 11:45 a.m. at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob. March 28 The Pierce City Senior Center Dance will hold its regular monthly dance. March 29 Monthly Birthday Lunch at the Cassville Senior Center begins at 11 a.m. March 30 The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612.
Connection Magazine | 55
connection on the go
Activities BINGO
Every Thursday night BINGO at the smoke-free Shell Knob/Viola Community Building on Oak Ridge Drive, 1/2 mile south of the Shell Knob bridge beginning at 6:30 p.m. Come early for the Horse Race, Pull Tabs and good food. Oak Pointe Bridge Club
Oak Pointe Bridge Club meets every Monday and Wednesday at 10 a.m. Lunch can be purchased for $3. Call 417-235-3500. MONETT SENIOR CENTER
Bingo every day at noon; Exercise every Monday at 9:45 a.m. Pitch every Tuesday and Thursday at 12:30; and Pinochle every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 12:30 p.m. Pauline Swinney, Karyn Shepard, Robin and Fred Stroud and Renita Chastain Took Connection on a Caribbean cruise to Grand Turk, Curaçao and Aruba in December 2018. They are pictured in front of Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar and Restaurant on Aruba.
Al-Anon Cassville: Al-Anon Family Group meets at 8 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Cassville every Thursday of each month. This is for family or friends of alcoholics. Caregiver Support Group Monett: Caregiver Support Group meets at Oak Pointe of Monett from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at 1011 Old Airport Road in Monett. For more information, call Kathy 417-235-3500. Shell Knob: The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets at the Central Crossing Senior Center, 20801 YY-15, the third Thursday of every month at 2 p.m.
56 | March 2019
Dominoes every Tuesday and Friday at noon. Exercise class every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10-11 a.m. Call 417-847-4510 for more information. CENTRAL CROSSING SENIOR CENTER, SHELL KNOB, MO.
Support groups Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Aurora: Alcoholics Anonymous of Aurora meets at 8 p.m. at Aurora Community of Christ Church at 120 E. Elm every Tuesday and Thursday. Call 417-229-1237. Cassville: Alcoholics Anonymous of Cassville meets at 8 p.m. at 1308 Harold Street in Cassville every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Call 417-847-3685. Eagle Rock: Alcoholics Anonymous of Eagle Rock meets at 7 p.m. at 86 & P (Mitchel Plaza) every Monday and Wednesday. Call 417-271-0434. Marionville: Alcoholics Anonymous of Marionville meets at 8 p.m. on Highway 60 next to Dairy Queen every Sunday. Call 417-463-7640. Monett: Alcoholics Anonymous of Monett meets at 7 p.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 405 Seventh Street, every Sunday and Wednesday. Call 417-489-5058. Mt. Vernon: Alcoholics Anonymous of Mt. Vernon meets at 8 p.m. at the Christian Church on 703 Hickory every Monday. Call 417-489-2413 or 417-440-1567. Washburn: Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at the First Baptist Church Activity Center, 618 Second Street in Washburn. 417-489-7662.
CASSVILLE SENIOR CENTER
Regular events: The Caring People (Single Mothers) Cassville: The Caring People, a Single Mom’s Support Group, meets the second Monday of each month from 5:30-7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Cassville. This is jointly sponsored by The Caring People organization and First Baptist Church, Cassville. A meal and children’s activities are provided. The meeting is open to anyone. For more information, call 417-847-2965. Celebrate Recovery Cassville: Celebrate Recovery meets at the Family Life Center in Cassville every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Meeting at the same time is Celebration Station for children. This is for anyone with hurts, habit or hang-ups. Golden: Celebrate Recovery meets at 7 p.m. at the Golden Baptist Church on Route J in Golden every Monday of each month. Dinner is served at 6:15 p.m. This is for anyone with hurts, habit or hang-ups. Monett: Celebrate Recovery meets at New Site Baptist Church, 1925 Farm Rd 1060 in Monett, on Thursdays. Doors open at 6 p.m. Childcare provided. The Landing, a Celebrate Recovery group for teens, meets at the same time and site. Purdy: Celebrate Recovery meets at First Baptist Church, 301 Washington St. in Purdy at 10 a.m. on Mondays. Seligman: Celebrate Recovery meets at MOZark Fellowship, 28277 Frisco Street, every Wednesday. Food is served at 6 p.m., and the meeting begins at 7 p.m. Diabetes Support Group Aurora: The Aurora Diabetes Support Group meets the third Wednesday of each month at Mercy Hospital in Aurora in the private dining room at 4-5 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Note: There is no meeting in December.
Wii Bowling every Wednesday, 12:45 to 3 p.m. New bowlers welcome; Friends’ Bridge every Friday. Call Quita at 417271-9803 for details; Cards Galore every Friday with Pitch beginning at 9 a.m.; Domino Poker, every day from 12:45; Qigong Exercise every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m.; Arthritis Exercise class is held every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m.; Mah Jongg every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Line Dancing every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 10:30 a.m.; Quilting for Charity every Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Balance and Flexibility class is held every Monday from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Grief Care Support Marionville: Grief Care Support, sponsored community support by Integrity Hospice, is held the last Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. in Marionville at Methodist Manor, 205 South College Ave. in the Alice Lounge. Care group is for anyone experiencing grief through loss. Monett: The Grief Support Group meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at Oak Pointe of Monett, 1011 Old Airport Road from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, call Kathy at 417-235-3500. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Monett: Vision of Hope Narcotics Anonymous group meets at 8 p.m. every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday in the upstairs of Monett Community Church, 2101 E. Cleveland. Monett: Narcotics Anonymous meets at 8 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month in the basement of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, located at the corner of Seventh and Cale streets in Monett, 417-442-3706. Washburn: Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at the First Baptist Church Activity Center, 618 Second Street in Washburn. 417-489-7662.
10 mins, 4 servings, 262 cals
Recipes
March
madness Annie’s Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips
Guacamole
Directions
Ingredients 3 avocados - peeled, pitted, and mashed 1 lime, juiced 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup diced onion 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Directions
In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt. Mix in onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and garlic. Stir in cayenne pepper. Refrigerate 1 hour for best flavor, or serve immediately.
45 mins, 10 servings, 312 cals
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, Golden Delicious apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2 kiwis, peeled and diced 2 Golden Delicious apples - peeled, cored and diced 8 ounces raspberries 1 pound strawberries 2 tablespoons white sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar 3 tablespoons fruit preserves, any flavor 10 (10 inch) flour tortillas butter flavored cooking spray 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar
Coat one side of each flour tortilla with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut into wedges and arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes. Serve with chilled fruit mixture.
Seven Layer Taco Dip Ingredients
30 mins, 56 servings, 66 cals
1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream 1 (16 ounce) jar salsa 1 large tomato, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 bunch chopped green onions 1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded 1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions In a medium bowl, blend the taco seasoning mix and refried beans. Spread the mixture onto a large serving platter. Mix the sour cream and cream cheese in a medium bowl. Spread over the refried beans. Top the layers with salsa. Place a layer of tomato, green bell pepper, green onions and lettuce over the salsa, and top with Cheddar cheese. Garnish with black olives. Connection Magazine | 57
30 mins, 12 servings, 356 cals
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Brown Sugar Smokies Ingredients 1 pound bacon 1 (16 ounce) package little smokie sausages 1 cup brown sugar, or to taste
Amazing Whisky Grilled Baby Back Ribs 3 hours, 4 servings, 1043 cals
Ingredients 2 (2 pound) slabs baby back pork ribs coarsely ground black pepper 1 tablespoon ground red chile pepper 2 1/4 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/2 cup minced onion 1 1/2 cups water 1/2 cup tomato paste 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 1/2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons salt 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1 1/4 teaspoons liquid smoke flavoring 2 teaspoons whiskey 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1 tablespoon dark molasses 1/2 tablespoon ground red chile pepper 58 | March 2019
Cut bacon into thirds and wrap each strip around a little sausage. Place the wrapped sausages on wooden skewers, several to a skewer. Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet and sprinkle them liberally with brown sugar. Bake until bacon is crisp and the brown sugar melted.
Directions Preheat oven to 300 degree F (150 degrees C). Cut each full rack of ribs in half, so that you have 4 half racks. Sprinkle salt and pepper (more pepper than salt), and 1 tablespoon chile pepper over meat. Wrap each half rack in aluminum foil. Bake for 2 1/2 hours. Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir the onions in oil for 5 minutes. Stir in water, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with 2 teaspoons salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, liquid smoke, whiskey, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dark molasses, and 1/2 tablespoon ground chile pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 1 1/4 hours, uncovered, or until sauce thickens. Remove from heat, and set sauce aside. Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat. Remove the ribs from the oven, and let stand 10 minutes. Remove the racks from the foil, and place on the grill. Grill the ribs for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Brush sauce on the ribs while they’re grilling, just before you serve them (adding it too early will burn it).
Antipasto Squares Ingredients 2 (10 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent dinner rolls 1/4 pound thinly sliced boiled ham 1/4 pound thinly sliced provolone cheese 1/4 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese 1/4 pound thinly sliced Genoa salami 1/4 pound thinly sliced pepperoni sausage 1 (12 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained, cut into thin strips 3 eggs 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Unroll one package of crescent roll dough, and cover the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan. Layer the ham, provolone cheese, Swiss cheese, salami, pepperoni, and red peppers, on top of the dough. In a bowl, beat the eggs lightly, and stir in the parmesan cheese and black pepper. Pour 3/4 of this mixture over the peppers. Unroll the second package of dough, and place over the top of the peppers. Brush with the remaining egg mixture. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove foil, and bake another 10 to 20 minutes, or until dough is fluffy and golden brown. Cut into squares. Serve warm, or at room temperature. 1 hour, 10 servings, 452 cals
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Connection Magazine | 59
Familiar Faces
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4 The annual Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet was held on Jan. 19 at Cassville High School, with Gov. Mike Parson serving as the keynote speaker.
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1. Wade, Christy and Clara Hermansen 2. Chris and Angela Seymour 3. Scott and Traci Mitchell 4. Cathy Nunley, Kay McCullah, Kelly Brown and Larry Brown 5. Sharon and David Sater 6. Bill and Dianne Shiveley 7. Judy and Kelly Hayes
St. Lawrence Catholic School in Monett held its annual Daddy Daughter Dance on Feb. 9 in Monett
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1 The annual Dining for Diabetes fundraiser, Cirque de Monett, was held Saturday, Jan. 26, in the multipurpose room at St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic School in Pierce City. Proceeds from the event provide diabetes education classes, counseling, medication and supplies to people locally.
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Phyllis and Mike Garrett Skylar Pinkley and Miles Schmidt Linda and Bill Collin Dana Cheny and Lauren Wrobleski Ellie and Emma Becker Kaitlyn and Stephanie Schumacher Red Hawkins and Koleman Lay Amanda and Kyler Hollars
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8 1. Alexis Luebbering, Mia Gripka, Jeremy Gripka, Maggie Gripka 2. Jayci, Jason and Kailyn Fletcher 3. Craig and Stella Freitag, Dallas and Steve Woody 4. Anna and Andy Hogenmiller 5. Richard Hurt, Rawn Batson, Sofia Wilson 6. Larry Schlup, Gary Schad 7. Nikki, Arriana and Jose Melchor, Nataly Perez 8. Tera, James and Ezabella Vesco
Connection Magazine | 61
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The Monett Artists’ Guild opened its production of “John Lennon and Me” on Feb. 8 at the Monett High School Performing Arts Center. 1. Roxann Watkins, Linda and Kim Lines 2. Taylor Hampton, Derick Holmes 3. Gayle and Jeffrey Brown 4. Frankie and Jane Haralson, Taylor and Amanda Jobes 5. Kara and Cameron Briggs 6. Dan and Dolly Johnson, Cindy and Aaron Weibel 7. Geneva Blue, Steve Snider 8. Amber Nelson, Sarah Gripka 9. Marney, Shelby and Bessie Nowland 10. Rhonda Sperandio, Jani and David Rosebrough, Drew Sneed
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Pierce City Senior Center hosted a Valentine dinner on Saturday, Feb. 9. 1. Carol and Phil Gollhofer 2. Jim and Doris Case 3. Erin and Kent Boursheski and Berniece Koenig 4. Wayne and Florene Towers 5. Lynette and Den Crady 6. Deanna and Joe Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara and Kelly Gray 7. Marlene and Bob Mareth 8. Sharon James and Della Cline 9. John and Mary Schmidt 10. Adline Bartkoski and Mary Schad
Connection Magazine | 63
The Monett Senior Center held its Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance on Feb. 4 at the Monett City Park Casino.
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1. Past and Buddy Sims 2. Kathye and Tim Trenary 3. Pauletta Spangler, Margaret Rupp, Lowell Jackson 4. Norma Carter, Cecil Hurlburt 5. Sam and Alexandra Burnside 6. Betty Taylor, Ed Claros, Debi Pickett 7. Sharon and Tom VanDerhoef 8. Barbara Dunn, Gabriella Chrisman, June Harrison 9. Pete and Sharon Cleveland 10. Bob Hollis, Shirley Jones
The Wheaton Historical Society held its 12th annual Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dinner on Feb. 9 at the Wheaton Community Center.
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1. Margaret Rose, Tom and Stephani Leverich 2. Rita Nunziata, Nola McMillen 3. Joe Ann Jump, Laurie Bennett 4. Lois Lowe, Becky Allman Roskob 5. Jerry and Cathy Harter 6. Roger and Faye McKee, Floyd Hughes 7. Ann and Cherry Warren, Jean and John Marney 8. Joyce and Ferman Prewitt 9. Danita Dean, L.C. and Barbara Hickman 10. Hallie Mitchell, Zac Leverich, Jozi Stehlik
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Connection Magazine | 65
Parting Shot
“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.” a d v e r t i s e r 's i n d e x BLRL......................................................................2 Acambaro Mexican......................................... 23 Advanced Plumbing & Septic Systems....... 39 Aire Serv............................................................ 29 Allstate Insurance........................................... 37 Bill Vance Marine...............................................9 Bruner Pharmacy................................................9 Carey’s Cassville Florist................................. 24 Carson Construction...................................... 37 Coast to Coast ................................................ 39 Coldwell Banker.............................................. 37 Community National Bank............................ 34
66 | March 2019
Cox Medical Centers...................................... 68 Crane Family Dentistry.................................. 14 Cubs Café......................................................... 44 Diet Center..........................................................5 Doug’s Pro Lube.............................................. 43 Edward Jones......................................................3 First State Bank of Purdy.............................. 43 Fohn Funeral Home........................................ 19 Four Seasons Real Estate.................................6 Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri.......... 19 Friendly Tire...................................................... 67 Guanajuato Mexican.........................................9
J&J Floor Covering......................................... 34 Ken’s Collision Center.................................... 36 Kiddie City........................................................ 23 Lackey Body Works........................................ 44 Les Jacobs............................................................5 Lil Boom Town Event Center........................ 19 Mattax Neu Prater Eye Center..................... 24 Monett Chamber of Commerce................... 14 Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce............ 23 Ozark Methodist Manor................................ 44 Peppers and Co............................................... 43 Purdy Health Clinlic........................................ 45
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