September Connection 2020

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Changing Season LABOR DAY reason to remember

LARRY SHANKS Monett outdoorsman

GRANDPARENTS MONTH honoring the love

LEMONADE SHARES Raylea ledbetter

SOUNDNESS OF MIND the Clark center

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E DI TO R I AL

We are a special group…

A

very special group of people are celebrated this month, and I am proud to say that I am a member of that group. The first Sunday after Labor Day is National Grandparents Day, this year the date falls on September 13.

I feel like we are a special group of people because of the fact that not everyone gets the honor to share the legacy of family. I personally have 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. One great was just born in August and I will have another great that will make their arrival in 2021. It is wonderful and extremely fulfilling.

We can give our thanks to Marian McQuade for being the founder of this special day to honor our special group.

Just a little of her history, she was recognized nationally by the United States Senate and by President Jimmy Carter as the founder of National Grandparents Day. She wanted to educate the youth about the importance

of seniors and the contributions they have made throughout history and urged the youth to “adopt” a grandparent and learn more about their lives, challenges and desires for the future.

McQuade began her activism in 1956 with seniors.

In 1978, she initiated “Adopt a Grandparent” not just for a day, but for a lifetime. In 1979, President Carter made National Grandparents Day a holiday.

McQuade served on the West Virginia Commission on Aging and the Nursing Home Licensing Board.

She was a mother of 15, grandmother of 43 and great-grandmother to 15.

She set out to make sure that grandparents were not forgotten, even if they had no grandchildren. She wanted to make sure that those that should have been grandparents would be adopted and have the opportunity to have the experience of sharing the love and the relationship that one can have by having grandchildren.

I found out that becoming a grandparent or in my case, a meemaw, is a bit different than being a parent.

The old saying of spoiling them and sending them home is very true.

Marian McQuade, founder of National Grandparents Day, set out to make sure that grandparents were not forgotten, even if they had no grandchildren.

4 | September 2020

A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SOUTHWEST MISSOURIANS

Are you a public school, state or local employee planning your next chapter?

GENERAL MANAGER Lisa Craft monettcommunity@gmail.com EDITOR Kyle Troutman editor@cassville-democrat.com

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When you are a parent, you are so proud of your child, but you are teaching them and correcting them as they grow into adults. And you are responsible for that teaching.

As a (meemaw) I let them sometimes eat too many snacks, make too much noise, get into the kitchen cabinets where the pots and pans are, stay up too late, and actually do things that I would not let their parents do. I usually get reminded about it also. My daughter or son usually lets me know that I would never have let them do that when they were growing up. And they are right; I wouldn’t. But it is a blast!!

I became a meemaw for the first time in 1996 — a little girl. And this one in particular I got to help raise for a while, which a lot of grandparents find themselves in that position. I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Sometimes we just have to be that steady rock until the place in the world is ready for that new life.

Annie Lisenby Smith has written a beautiful story in this month’s Connection “Celebrating Grandparents.” I hope you enjoy it as she shares some stories of some local grandparents and their love for their grandchildren.

To all of the grandparents and great-grandparents out there... I rejoice and celebrate with you. It is a great time in my life as I know it probably is in yours. Enjoy the baby times as they don’t last long!

Lisa Craft

General Manager, Connection Magazine 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

F

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S 10 | SELFLESS GIVING

Raylea Ledbetter of Pulaskifield knows the importance of supporting the causes she cares most about

16 | CELEBRATING GRANDPARENTS

10

September is Grandparents Month and in honor of the ones we cherish most

29 | HONORING

LABOR DAY

Hard working Americans across the country reflect on the value of the country’s labor force

33 | THE CLARK CENTER

Hope is a click and call away from the Clark Center as they draw attention to National Suicide Prevention Month

33

16 S E P T E M B E R 2020

38 | LARRY SHANKS: OUTDOORSMAN

Credited as saving vulnerable species of wildlife throughout his career

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 7

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SEPTEMBER 2020

Changing Season LABOR DAY reason to remember

LARRY SHANKS Monett outdoorsman

GRANDPARENTS MONTH honoring the love

LEMONADE SHARES Raylea ledbetter

SOUNDNESS OF MIND the Clark center

A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SOUTHWEST MISSOURIANS

ON THE COVER:

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Morgan Stanley recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. © 2020 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

CONTENTS 22 Cutest Kid

23 Healthy Connection: Are you Type 2?

25 Parenting Column: Keep it simple

37 New Online Promotion 44 Cutest Pet

45 Rescued, My Favorite Breed 48 Recipes: Table treats 50 Parting Shot

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Rhonda Ledbetter, right, is pictured with 16 orphans and two of the staff that watch over the children in an orphanage she owns and operates in Croix de Bouquets, a city located eight miles northeast of Haiti’s capital city, Port-au-Prince.

‘It is better to give…’

Local girl learns the joy of giving to others

10 | September 2020

S

ome may believe that an individual can’t make a meaningful impact in the world, but Raylea Ledbetter, of Pulaskifield, is a sterling example of how one person can make a big change for others.

Raylea, 8, lives in the quiet, rural community of Pulaskifield, a tiny, unincorporated community located in Capps Creek Township in Barry County, comprised mostly of farmland and cattle. It is not the hub of a busy community or rife with com-

Story by Melonie Roberts

muters on their daily trek to the workplace. So, when Raylea decided she wanted to help 16 children in a Haitian orphanage owned and operated by her grandmother, Rhonda Ledbetter, she set up a lemonade stand in her front yard in the quiet community that is made up of cattle-inhabited fields and where a traffic jam is more than likely two tractors meeting on one of the narrow byways that criss-cross the land.

That was faith.

And God did the rest.

Raylea Ledbetter, 8, of Pulaskifield set out to raise money to benefit orphans in Haiti. She raised enough through sales from her lemonade stand, Raylea’s Stand for Jesus, to purchase 16 mattresses for all the orphans in a facility owned and operated by her grandmother, Rhonda Ledbetter.

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 11

Her grandparents, Danny and Rhonda Ledbetter, had previously purchased the property where Hill Creek Church is located, and set up a home-based ministry far different than their experience as a Southern Gospel family band, performing all over the nation.

Once the word went out that Raylea was selling lemonade to purchase mattresses for the orphans, church members happily stopped by the little stand to make their pur-

chases. She hoped to meet her goal of $1,100, the cost of 16 new mattresses.

“I heard they had beds that were not like ours,” said Raylea. “So, I wanted to buy them some beds.”

She saw photos sent to her grandmother by staffers from the orphanage, located in Croix de Bouquets, located eight miles northeast of Haiti’s capital city, Port-au-Prince, showing half-inch foam pads that were crumbling apart.

Children of a Haitian orphanage are pictured with the new mattresses purchased by an 8-year-old local girl, Raylea Ledbetter.

12 | September 2020

“We put the word out to the church, and had a fairly big turnout,” said Raylea’s mom, Hannah. “We had people who came from all over the county.”

“Because of the rioting and the COVID situation, I was not able to get down there to see what shape they were in,” said Rhonda. “Mattresses wear out quickly. They are stacked on top of one another during the day. It is really a destitute area. Some reports describe it as more of a fifth world country. They lack the basics of everything. It is poverty at its worst.”

Rhonda said she and her supporters were blessed to be able to bring in a filtered well.

“Our kids have good water,” she said. “But that is a blessing from God. Not all orphanages have that.”

But that initial effort didn’t quite meet Raylea’s goal of $1,100.

So she continued setting up her stand, strong in her faith that God would provide the customers.

“One man drove over an hour, all the way from Fairland, Okla., just for some of Raylea’s lemonade,” Rhonda said.

“We sold seven or eight gallons of lemonade on Father’s Day,” added Hannah. “We went through a lot of water, sugar and lemon juice. And ice. Lots of ice.”

Raylea talks to some of the orphans by satellite phone and on other internet platforms.

“I’m in frequent contact with my [adopted] daughters, Myrlande and Mirhonda,” said Rhonda. “They were orphans since they were babies.

When we began working together, there was an immediate connection.

I feel very safe, knowing what kind of spiritual support and protection the kids have in my orphanage, and it wasn’t always that way.”

Before many weekends were up, Raylea had reached her goal of $1,100, and beyond. So, she decided to include new sheets and pillows, and the cost of medical exams for children ready to start school.

“Raylea got to tell the children by video what she had done and see their faces,” Rhonda said. “And they got to see hers.”

Children in the orphanage pray a minimum of three times a day.

“They always pray for Raylea, for what she has done to help them,” Rhonda said. “We are still able to get things into the country fairly easily due to some of the connections I’ve made. We have learned to make things happen when the opportunity arises.”

The orphanage is somewhat isolated, behind concrete walls in the center of a city ravaged by rioters and looters.

“We have security guards,” Rhonda said. “We have supplies delivered so people from the orphanage don’t have to leave. The children do chores, go to school, have prayer, do some more chores and go to church every night. There is no electricity there, so they go to bed at night. It’s safer because people from the outside can’t see in and try to get in and steal their food. The people of Haiti aren’t mean, they are just trying to survive.”

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 13

Hope for Haiti Raylea’s Stand for Jesus raised over $4,000 for an orphanage in Haiti.

Sometimes, traveling to visit the orphanage is more difficult than others.

“I’ve probably been 40 times since 2008, when I was working with other orphanages,” Rhonda said. “In 2012, we set up our personal one. God put it on my heart that this was where I was supposed to help.”

And for a fifth-world country, help is desperately needed.

“They are people so bound by poverty, they don’t think life can be different,” Rhonda said. “My kids [at the orphanage] are blessed to have rice and beans. I try to buy food in bulk at lower prices. In Haiti, food prices are five times what they should be.”

So Raylea’s effort was greatly appreciated by the children residing in the orphanage in the center of the “City of Flowers.”

“In this case, there was a need, and God filled it with this girl’s lemonade, cookies and cupcakes,” Rhonda said.

“She has sold dozens of cupcakes.”

“We’ve spent a lot of time baking those for her stand,” added Hannah.

“When the sun was hot, it was just like they were out of the oven.”

By the time Raylea’s fundraising efforts were completed, she had collected more than $4,000 for the orphans of Haiti.

“Raylea truly has a giving heart,” Rhonda said. “Her mama and daddy have taught her well.” n 14 | September 2020

Raylea Ledbetter of Pulaskifield set out to help the children in a Haitian orphanage owned and operated by her grandmother, Rhonda Ledbetter, by raising money to purchase new mattresses to replace the old, worn foam pads they were sleeping on.

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Celebrating Grandparents

Ralph Scott recommends doing what the grandkids want to do. When Mark Smith travels from Albuquerque, New Mexico to visit his grandson, Simon, in Monett, that involves a trip to the lake.

Simon’s favorite thing to do with Grandpa is to, “Push him in the water!”

16 | September 2020

“Grandma, tell me a story.”

A child curls up in Grandma’s lap and looks up at her with adoration, enjoying hearing stories about the family, how Grandma and Grandpa met, and the way life was many years before.

Grandparents have an important role.

They teach family history, cultural values, moral values, manners, and most importantly, the joy of unconditional love.

Grandparents leave impressions on their grandchildren that last a lifetime, ones that shape who the child will grow to be and what they’ll value in life. Raised in the farmlands of South Dakota, Lynette Nelson said, “My grandmother instilled a love of poetry in me. Her mother had started a poetry book by clipping her favorite poems and gluing them into a catalog. My grandmother added her own favorites.

When I was at her house, she would let me page through the book, reading works by great poets and housewives, placed right next to each other in no particular order.”

Dee Lancaster’s grandparents taught her the value of hard work. One she’s carried into her own kitchen. She’s known for cooking large meals for her church.

This love of poetry blossomed in Nelson through many adventures in her life from working as a teleprompter operator in the Hollywood film and television industry to writing her first novel for middle grade students. “A year or so ago, the book came into my possession.

Its pages are crumbling now, but the memories of her sharing this gift with me and my love of words, are not.”

A lesson that Dee Lancaster of Kimberling City learned was the importance of a hard day’s work. “My grandparents came from very humble beginnings, both the children of farmers who barely made enough to keep the family in clothing. My grandpa left home at 12:00 to work in a restaurant and worked two or three jobs up until he opened a well drilling business.”

A book of poetry handed down from Lynette Nelson’s grandmother.

Filled with beautiful poems, it’s become a reminder of the special bond Nelson shared with her grandmother and the legacy that continues through Nelson’s writing.

Story by Annie Lisenby Smith

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 17

In 2019, the Scotts celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary surrounded by their family.

The role of a grandparent is vital to a child, but reports say that the role is beneficial for the grandparent too. Writing for the Today Parenting Team, Melanie Knight’s identified what children can receive from healthy relationships with grandparents.

Someone who offers unconditional love A mentor who can help with problems Companionship and someone to talk to Someone who will stand beside them A window into their parent’s childhood A sense of adventure Kindness, humor, and patience A zest for life Family traditions The ability to laugh at oneself Life lessons

18 | September 2020

Lancaster’s grandparents were very involved in her life, spending half of their retirement years to help raise her and her cousins. “We all learned to say ‘yes sir’ and ‘yes ma’am’ and to use manners.”

The distance between a child and his or her grandparents can make a difference in their relationship. “We lived 700 miles away,” said Amber Nelson of Springfield about her grandparents.

“We would go see them every summer.

I can hold them up as an example of a different lifestyle than our farm life was. They golfed and drank martinis and owned things ‘just to look at.’”

Growing up on Long Island, Susan Barboza (now living in Monett) had a very different experience. “My grandparents lived across the street from each other. So, every Sunday it was Grandparent’s Day. One Sunday it would be dinner at Grandma’s and lunch at Nana’s and Poppie’s, and one day would be

Married for 49 years, Ralph and Mary Scott have many years of wisdom to share with new grandparents.

Standing in front of their wall of family pictures, Ralph and Mary Scott are proud of their many grand- and great-grandchildren.

dinner at Nanny and Poppy’s. They were my best friends. They shaped and molded my ethics for family.”

In all of the time she spent with her grandparents, Barboza’s favorite memory is learning to play piano from her grandma. “Grandma played piano by ear. All she had to do was hear a song and she’d play it.”

The number of lessons children learn from their grandparents are as uncountable as the stars. They are often carried over into the teenage years and adulthood. Lancaster shared a lesson on generosity she learned from her grandparents. “At my grandpa’s funer-

al we learned that for the fifteen years that he owned Bill Huff Well Drilling, that any church that asked him to drill a well for them got a statement from my grandparents as soon as it was finished saying that their bill was already paid in full.”

Around her, friends and family have been blessed by Lancaster’s generosity and hard work for many years. She’s known for serving her church family with all her heart and with delicious cinnamon rolls.

A relationship between a child and a grandparent can be beneficial for both. Writing for Fatherly.com, Lau-

ren Vinopal said, “Kids who grow up to have greater emotional closeness with grandparents are less likely to be depressed as adults, one study shows.”

Studies have also shown that grandparents who spend time with their grandkids live longer and when spending one day a week caring for children, grandmothers had a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s.

One local couple has had many years of experience as grandparents, great-grandparents, and recently became great-great grandparents. Ralph and Mary Scott were married in 1949.

From their three children they have nine grandkids, 13 great-grandkids and one great-great grandchild. Their children live spread across different states in the Midwest and south, but the Scotts have continually made an effort to be a part of their grandchildren’s lives.

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 19

Garrett Barboza, son of Susan Barboza, and his wife Xylina Perez celebrate a gender reveal. Susan is already planning for her first grandchild, a girl due in the fall. Though Garrett and Xylina are serving with the Air Force in Hawaii, Susan has many plans to shower the baby with love.

Reminiscing on the early days with younger grandchildren, Mary said, “One little granddaughter was here, probably two. I was sleeping on my side on the edge of the bed and my eyelid comes open. A little voice says grandma you awake?” Ralph described his grandson’s input when the Scotts were setting up a new house. He chose where the waffle iron needed to go so that it was always ready for use. It’s still in the same place many years later.

Over the years they’ve enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren, whether it was in their home in Monett or on a trip to the outer banks of North Carolina. Sometimes the simpler times together have been the sweetest. “We’re in the process of wearing out a set of dominoes,” said Ralph.

Having many years of experience, the Scotts shared their thoughts on the role of being a grandparent. “It makes a difference whether they live

20 | September 2020

down the street or a hundred miles away,” Ralph noted. “We’ve never had grandkids close.”

When they visit, Ralph said it’s best to do what the grandkids want to do.

If they want to play outside, you play outside. If they want to fish, you fish.

“We have the tendency to go to the pool a lot,” Ralph said with a smile.

Even with the distance, Mary added, “Be there for your children and your grandchildren. Be judicious about stepping in and making remarks. Be loving and kind.”

When asked for advice on grandparenting, Ralph suggested being intentional on planning and adhering to the plan to spend time with the grandkids. “Make sure you do it and it’s in your schedule. Be sincere in loving them and make sure they know they’re being loved by their grandparents.”

“Just love them,” Mary said.

“It’s pretty easy to love grandkids.

They’re pretty special,” Ralph added.

This advice can go far with those who are expecting their first grandchild. Barboza, learning from her grandparents on Long Island years ago, is expecting her first granddaughter this fall. “We should all have one person who knows how to bless us despite the evidence, I want to be that grandmother to my granddaughter, Zavaia Rae. Her name means ‘God.’ She’s already my blessing.”

It would be negligent not to mention those people in our community who function in the role of grandparent even though there is no blood relation. Many children grow up not knowing their grandparents.

For them, it’s important for people to reach out to these children to provide the guidance and love that a grandparent might give them.

There are many ways that senior citizens can volunteer to help the youth in our community. While it’s challenging to do so amidst COVID restrictions, many children have been blessed by church volunteers for youth groups and children’s ministries. Elementary school children have benefited from programs where seniors visited classrooms to read and share lunchtime with children.

A local Monett retired teacher took the time during the school’s wellness break from March through May to use her skills teaching neighbor children on her front porch. She’s developed a bond with these children through teaching and sharing a love of reading.

Whether you’re a grandparent by blood or by special situation, whether you live close or far from your family, grandparents have an important role in shaping the youth of our community. Happy Grandparents’ Day to all of our wonderful grandparents! n

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22 | September 2020

H E A LTH Y CON NEC T IO N Lisa Ramirez, MPH, RDN, LD is a Registered Dietitian and lead dietitian of the Center for Health Improvement at Cox Monett Hospital. She enjoys camping, biking, hiking, and spending time with her one-year old daughter.

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Know Your Risk for Type 2 Diabetes Did you know that more than one-third of Americans have pre-diabetes, but more than eight in 10 people do not know it?

What is pre-diabetes?

Pre-diabetes is a serious health condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Pre-diabetes occurs when your body is not able to properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps sugar in your blood get into your cells to be used as energy. When your body does not use insulin properly or if it does not make enough, sugar (also called glucose) builds up in the blood stream. Over time, elevated blood sugars can wreak havoc on the body. Potential complications include heart disease, nerve, eye and kidney damage, and prolonged infections.

Prolonged high blood sugars can lead to blindness, kidney failure and dialysis, and amputations.

What are the risk factors What can I do if I have pre-diabetes? for pre-diabetes?

Many people have pre-diabetes for years but have no clear symptoms, so it goes undetected.

Risk factors for pre-diabetes include being overweight, being 45 years or older, having a parent, brother, or sister with Type 2 diabetes, being physically active less than three times per week, having a history of gestational diabetes, and having polycystic ovary syndrome. African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders, and Asian Americans have increased risk.

To find out your own risk, visit doihaveprediabetes.org and take the Risk Test.

The good news? Research shows that if you are one of approximately 88 million American adults with prediabetes, you can reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by implementing lifestyle changes. A clinical trial showed that adults with pre-diabetes who participated in a yearlong CDC Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lowered their chances of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent compared to those that did not participate.

Participants ages 60 and older lowered their chances of developing Type 2 diabetes by 71 percent. Through healthy eating and physical activity, participants in the DPP lifestyle change programs aim to lose 5 percent

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 23

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Although there is not enough data to show whether people with diabetes are more likely to get COVID-19, we do know that diabetes is a risk factor for serious complications with the virus. This is especially true for those with uncontrolled blood sugars. One recent study showed that approximately 20 percent of ICU patients with COVID-19 have diabetes and that there have been less Emergency Room visits for uncontrolled blood sugars, most likely related to patients avoiding hospitals and medical care due to fear of contracting the virus.

This makes the need for education, self-management tools and diabetes prevention even more important.

How do I get involved with a Diabetes Prevention Program?

The exciting news is that a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is coming to Monett! Through a collaboration between Cox Monett Hospital and the Missouri University Extension, DPP classes will start this fall.

To learn more about the program or find out if you are eligible to participate, please call Kelsea Ferguson at 417-459-0109.

PA RE N TI N G C O LU MN

By Meagan Ruffing

Keep It Simple

(as my mom says)

I

think we can all agree, 2020 has not gone the way we thought it would. The current COVID pandemic has most of us scratching our heads and wondering how to make sense of the world we’re living in. Our homes have become more than just our safe places but they’ve now doubled as our office spaces. When things don’t go our way and things are out of our control, it’s easy to let ourselves, our decisions and our beliefs waver, depending on our moods. Sometimes, it’s harder to do absolutely nothing, rather than doing the next right thing.

I was recently given some important advice by my mother who was given this advice by her mother. In a phone conversation we had not too long ago, I was sharing some of life’s hard moments that I was desperately seeking my mom’s input on. I barely let her get a word in with all of my huffing and puffing between stories and that’s when she said it. My mom whispered the words, “Keep it simple, Meg.” Her comment took me by surprise. My mom is usually the one who keeps right up with me in our need to gab about all things ‘life’, but in this moment, she decided to scale back the conversation, pause, and share some pretty profound words with me. “Keep it simple?” I said. Okay. Well how do I do that?

Her words have stayed with me each day, and

I’ve tried to utilize them in times of distress while also weaving them into the fabric of my own self-conscious. Just the other day I could feel myself getting worked up about a situation, and I repeated my mom’s words, “Keep it simple.” I’ve been looking for clues all around me as to how to abide by this. Sometimes I get it right. Sometimes I don’t. The times I do, I keep on with the day and pat myself on the back. The times I don’t, I process my reaction in the situation and figure out how I could have simplified things.

Parenting journalist Meagan Ruffing has enjoyed keeping things simple this summer. She finds joy and humor in raising her three kiddos while finishing up her graduate degree in clinical mental counseling and marriage and family therapy.

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 25

When things don’t go our way, it’s easy to over complicate the situation.

To help myself keep things simple, I:

1.

5. Bake it out.

Break things down into bitesized pieces. Meaning, I deconstruct the

problem. I try to take it down to its most basic form. I work at doing the next best thing to help the problem unfold.

2.

3.

Talk about it with a friend or family member. Sometimes we just

need to vent to someone we trust. Hearing our thoughts out loud in a spoken conversation can help bring new perspective to stressful times. Sit with someone you trust, and talk about what’s bothering you. As a therapist-in-training, I see this every day with my clients.

Write it down. I’m a big fan of writing

things down. I consider myself an old-school, pen and paper kind of girl. When my head feels like it’s filled with too much “stuff,” I know it’s time to let it out. I don’t always know what I’m going to write so I just start writing and things usually take shape in whatever way they need to.

Pretty soon I have a page filled with ideas and columns of things I’m thankful for. Picking up a cute new journal always helps, too.

Work it out. I have to be in the mood to

4.

exercise but when I am, it sure does help my brain when I feel like things aren’t going my way.

Taking a walk, going for a run or heading out for a bike ride pumps more oxygen to the brain.

Your body also releases chemicals like dopamine and endorphins in your brain, which make you feel happy. All the while, your body is detoxing (dumping out) chemicals that make you feel stressed and anxious.

26 | September 2020

6.

My sister loves to bake. I think she takes after our grandmother in that department, because I’ve yet to meet another person who finds so much joy in ‘whipping up’ five loaves of banana bread and trying her hand at a homemade recipe for cannolis. Baking can make us feel closer to those we love when we make one of their recipes or bake something with them in mind. It also feels good to serve other people through food. When things aren’t going my way, doing something for someone else helps me put things in perspective.

Clean it out. Who doesn’t love a clean

house? I know I do! There’s nothing quite like putting on my favorite country music with the windows open while tidying things up in my home. It helps me process things that are going on in the world around me when I can take a deep breath and know that while I may not be able to control what’s going on outside of my home, I can control the way I clean my house. It helps.

Keeping it simple really does help the mind, body and soul; especially in a time like now.

Grab ahold of your day, and use some of these ideas to make each day the best it can be. We may not know what tomorrow brings, but we do know what we can bring to today.

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Labor Day: S

For more than a century, the United States has celebrated the American working people on Labor Day.

Red, white and blue symbolizes the honor and appreciation bestowed upon working Americans each September, like Pharmacist Ryan Harness at Sater Pharmacy in Cassville.

Honoring the American working people

ince 1894, when Labor Day became an official federal holiday, the entire weekend is a tribute paid to the American working people, whose contributions stimulate the economy and communities they serve.

Additionally, it symbolizes the end of summer, which usually begins with Memorial Day. While both holidays are drenched in red, white and blue, Labor Day parades, parties and gatherings are generally a symbolic way for Americans to relax and appreciate their time with family and loved ones.

In the late 1800s during the Industrial Revolution, many Americans worked long hours, sometimes seven days a week, to barely make ends meet. Most family members, including children, worked in extremely dangerous work conditions.

Eventually, late in the 19th Century, labor unions began to appear

Story by Jordan Privett

and grew vocal against these working conditions, organizing strikes to gain traction.

On June 28, 1894, Labor Day was signed into law by President Grover Cleveland, however, the true founder of the holiday is still unknown.

While American workers should enjoy the true meaning of the holiday, children generally see it as the last major event marking their transition from summer back to school.

According to the U.S Department of Labor, the creation and celebration of this labor movement is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers.

Today, specifically in light of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, people may have a renewed appreciation for the holiday.

In 2020, unemployment has seen record highs, and those that are able to keep their jobs have been deemed “essential workers.�

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 29

Ryan Harness, pharmacist at Sater Pharmacy in Cassville, said he understands that his position means showing up to work amid the dangers of COVID-19, and he is thankful to have his job.

Labor Day is about celebrating the working people.

“The last three months have put the ability and chance to work in perspective for people. ” -Ryan Harness, pharmacist at Sater Pharmacy

30 | September 2020

As thoughts and prayers flood from each house to another in support and care for those that are being affected in their communities by missing work, loss of a business or other unforeseen consequences of COVID-19, there are still those Americans that are risking themselves to show up and serve their communities throughout the pandemic.

Businesses like pharmacies, grocery stores and post offices have stayed open to serve their communities during this uncertain time, including Sater Pharmacy in Cassville.

Ryan Harness, pharmacist at Sater Pharmacy, said he has been working at the business for five years.

“I chose to become a pharmacist because I always enjoyed the math and science aspect of the job,” he said.

“But, I also enjoy the customer interactions that I see in an independent pharmacy setting like this.”

Sater Pharmacy did close to the public for six weeks at the start of the local impact of COVID-19.

“We are not in an industry that can close completely,” Harness said. “People have to have their medication, and it simply isn’t an option to not be here for them.”

Although at first, people didn’t know what this pandemic would look like, the pharmacy employees continued to show up for their community.

“It was scary at that point, but we worked through it,” Harness said. “We have always offered mail-in and delivery options, and we added the curbside delivery option at that point too.”

Harness said to him, Labor Day is about celebrating the working people.

“The last three months have put the ability and chance to work in perspective for people,” he said. “The rate

of unemployment makes you more thankful for your position.”

Harness said he enjoys helping people.

“I get to answer people’s questions and give them the knowledge to understand,” he said. “When you know why you are doing something, it makes it easier to accomplish.”

Sater Pharmacy will close on Labor Day so their employees can celebrate the holiday with their loved ones.

“Labor Day isn’t always celebrated,” Harness said. “But, due to the hard work of those before us, we get the opportunity to celebrate it.”

Harness said his family used to go to the lake for Labor Day weekend.

“It is the last warm holiday of the year,” he said. “It is also the start of college football.”

Around Labor Day, Harness said business changes a bit.

“We usually start doing the flu shot to help people get through the cold

Dana Kammerlohr serves her community as the Cassville police chief no matter what stands in her way. She and many others like her are the reason the U.S. celebrates Labor Day on the first Monday in September every year.

months,” he said.

Other essential jobs that continue in the face of COVID-19, include occupations like nursing, firefighters, 911 dispatchers and police officers.

Dana Kammerlohr, Cassville police chief, said her favorite part of the job is getting to know people.

“I got into law enforcement by default,” she said. “I was a veterinarian technician as my first trade when I got into search and rescue. After spending so much time around local, state and federal agents, I became more interested in the field.”

Kammerlohr was asked if she would be able to train a drug dog, and she said yes.

“That changed my life,” she said. “I love helping people. There are times that you can stop and think why people are doing what they are — there is usually a reason.”

In law enforcement, officers often do much more than what people see.

“There is a lot of reaching out to the public to help people,” Kammerlohr said. “Being able to help someone and see the success they achieve is rewarding to the officers and myself.”

Kammerlohr said sometimes the meaning of Labor Day is missed.

“It just becomes a day off,” she said.

“But, there is history in how hard people worked to get that honor and recognition.”

There are many professionals that don’t get to take Labor Day off and celebrate.

“While they are missing time with their families, they do it with pride,” Kammerlohr said. “I would ask people to remember the people that are still working to keep you safe. They are proud to do it.”

Growing up, Kammerlohr remembers spending Labor Day with family in Oklahoma and Arkansas at the lake, having a picnic.

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 31

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“We always did a lot with family,” she said. “I was never a fashionista, but I remember my cousins making a big deal about wearing white after Labor Day, ha.”

In Kammerlohr’s line of work, she begins to see a transition around Labor Day as well — a focus and concentration of school and the safety of students as they start their school year.

While many communities are still struggling with the effects of COVID-19, there are still many options to help support those businesses still serving their communities by celebrating Labor Day. Twilia Harrison, Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce director, said there are many different ways to celebrate Labor Day at the lake while continuing to social distance six feet from others.

“Everything is still open — restaurants, boating, shops, resorts and much more,” she said.

Harrison said the chamber is able to help direct visitors and get them information on the many things to do.

“The water is great,” she said. “We encourage people to take personal responsibility and practice public distancing here.

“This is your opportunity to support the local businesses in your area.

They are your friends and neighbors, and by supporting them, you are supporting your community.”

Labor Day is meant to celebrate the working Americans that are contributing to the economy. However, this year is much different from years prior, and the American people have a silver lining to see amid the economic effects of COVID-19 in the sense of a higher appreciation for their jobs, co-workers, local businesses and those that continue to serve and adapt for their communities. n

The Clark Center

Providing Mental Health Care in Our Community

Serving the area since 1971, the main office of the Clark Center is found in Pierce City.

T

oo often people don’t talk about mental health care until there is a crisis. The National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) reports that nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness that ranges in varying degrees of severity from mild to moderate to severe. With September being National Suicide Prevention Month, it’s a good time to recognize those in our community who care for your mental health.

Since 1971, the Clark Center has met the mental health care needs of the residents of Barry, Lawrence, and Dade counties. Working in conjunction with the Department of Mental Health, the 135 Clark Center employees provide a variety of services to the community.

After being funded by grants, the Clark Center is now part of the Show Me Hope program. With the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic being declared a national disaster by President Trump, funds were made available for staff members like Sarah Johnson, Show Me Hope Program Manager, to reach into the community to connect and offer services that assist residents in dealing with COVID stress.

Johnson, a licensed professional

Story by Annie Lisenby Smith

The Clark Center provides a 24-hour crisis hotline.

For additional information, contact the Clark Center at 417-476-1000 or visit their website at www.clarkmentalhealth.com

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 33

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. If you, or someone you know, are exhibiting these warning signs, the staff at the Clark Center is ready to help. counselor, has worked for 20 years in mental healthcare and was on disaster teams providing care for those affected by the Joplin tornado and the Duck Boat tragedy in Branson.

Johnson said that their first goal is to let the community know about the program and the services available.

“Anybody can call the Show Me Hope helpline (800-985-5990) to direct you to the help team in your area. It’s all free, paid for by a grant,” said Johnson.

“There’s no one who’s not touched

by COVID,” Johnson said. The Show Me Hope program has begun contacting and offering services to factory workers and nursing homes, including the staff, residents, and families of residents. The goal is to assess needs and direct individuals to resources in the community as well as the Clark Center to aid in overcoming COVID stress. Johnson and her co-workers have delivered food to families who are required to quarantine by the health departments.

The question Show Me Hope staffers are asking is, how can we help?

“We’re being present, meeting them where they’re at,” said Johnson.

“There’s always somebody out there who’s able to help, serve, connect with you. You’re not alone in this no matter how alone you feel. If anyone’s willing to reach out, we’re glad to help them, we’re privileged to help them.”

Johnson observed that everyone is going through something right now.

Whether it’s disagreements about wearing masks or not knowing if

34 | September 2020

you can believe what’s in the news, everyone is affected in some way by COVID stress. This includes people of all ages. Johnson is working with the Barry Lawrence Regional Library to provide videos that coach people in how to manage stress. The library website has posted a video for children on relaxation and mindfulness.

“It’s a great time to be kind to your common man. Take a deep breath, and know that things will change,” Johnson said. “There are opportunities in this to be better, to do more.

If you want to see the strength of the human character, look to disaster. You

find it in ordinary, amazing people.”

During these unusual times, the Clark Center has adapted services to meet the needs of residents from a distance. Brad Ridenour, Clark Center CEO, said that they are currently doing 90 percent telehealth and telephone services. Yet also making it happen for those who need face-toface interaction too.

Walk-in services are available at the Clark Center with COVID screening measures. “Coming in to the Clark Center is very easy, open access model. If today is the day that you determine that you need to talk

Contact the Clark Center at 417-476-1000 or visit their website at www.clarkmentalhealth.com

Jeremy Schmidt, care coordinator, attends staff meetings and virtually visits with clients by way of confidential Zoom video connection from the safety of his backyard.

“It’s not that we don’t have a caring community, it’s that community members have a lack of understanding on what to do for the many individuals who struggle with these problems.” to someone, you don’t need to make an appointment, you just walk in,” said Ridenour. He also encouraged residents to call for assistance if they aren’t able to come to an office.

When describing the services provided by the Clark Center, Ridenour said, “We primarily work in behavioral health treatment—mental health and substance use disorders.”

They serve clients struggling with all levels of mental health challenges from mild anxiety to more severe psychiatric disorders.

The staff includes a psychiatrist who serves as medical director and six

psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. To better reach the community, one of the mental health nurse practitioners speaks Spanish. The staff also consists of licensed counselors, psychologists, and care coordinators.

Ridenour addressed the challenges of meeting mental health needs in our area. “There is a higher level of stigma in rural settings. One of the goals of the Clark Center is to educate the community. In our communities we do a great job of meeting physical health needs. We are taught to take care of the least, the last in our communities. Yet, when it comes

to an individual with mental health problems, we tend to see these people and pass by. It’s not that we don’t have a caring community, it’s that community members have a lack of understanding on what to do for the many individuals who struggle with these problems.”

To directly address this lack of information, the Clark Center team has adopted a program to teach locals mental health first aid. Just as individuals are trained to help with a medical crisis, they are trained to help in a mental health crisis. Clark Center staff members are trained to teach the eight-hour course. For any groups or organizations that would like information on this training, they are encouraged to contact the Clark Center for more information.

Ridenour said that the Clark Center’s purpose is to provide mental health care for people so that they don’t have to drive to Joplin or Springfield for quality care. “We take Medicaid, Medicare and a large number of other third-party insurances.

Sliding scales are available for those who are uninsured,” Ridenour said.

“We are a private non-profit with contracts with the Department of Mental Health to provide services to the three counties.”

“If any individual in this area finds themselves having any kind of difficulties with mental health or substance use issues, there should be no shame in reaching out to us. In fact, it’s courageous when an individual recognizes that assistance is needed,” Ridenour said. n

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 35

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The Great Outdoors Larry Shanks largely credited for saving ferrets, wolves

N

ot many have the chance to turn a childhood love into a lifelong career, but Larry Shanks of Monett, did and received many honors and accolades.

Shanks developed his interest in the outdoors with help from his dad by instilling important values in him and Richard Heim. Because of what he was taught and lived, he developed an interest in local wildlife which turned into a career.

After graduating at Monett High School, Shanks attended University of Missouri in Columbia. He took classes in the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, parasitology in vet school and physiology and anatomy in medical school.

“I was competing with veterinarians and doctors all the way through school,” said Shanks.

Following graduation in 1965 he

Story by Melonie Roberts

was hired by the Florida Game and Fish Commission.

“When I moved to Florida I knew squat about saltwater and had never seen the ocean. I volunteered to go with one of the fishermen to learn about life cycles in estuaries.”

Estuaries are where salt and fresh water mix and where everything starts.

If the estuaries are healthy, the Gulf of Mexico is healthy.

“All growth begins there,” Shanks stated.

Larry spent a lot of time in the Everglades. The big thing back then was alligator poaching for shoes, belts and handbags.

“At that time, an estimated number of female alligators totaled three within a 3,000 mile radius. They were almost extinct,” Shanks said. “We won the battle by getting them on the endangered species list.”

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 39

Following Shanks’ duties in Key West, he moved to Pensacola, Fla., where he oversaw the protection of manatees, osprey, pelicans and alligators. It was at that time that Rachel Carson, author of “Silent Spring” wrote about the negative impacts of DDT on birds.

“DDT didn’t belong in the wetlands,” Shanks said. “It caused thinning of the shells in nesting areas. It was used to control mosquitoes.”

Among many of Shanks’ accomplishments he had a hand in stopping the dredging of estuaries to build more high rise condos.

“We were trying to enforce the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act,” said Shanks, “and had to know where the line in the sand was drawn.”

“We wrote a report and sent it to Col. Tabb in Jacksonville, Fla., and he denied the dredge and fill permits of several thousand acres, twice,” Shanks said. “The third time it went to Atlanta, Ga., and it was sent to Washington, D.C., where it was denied.”

Shanks was awarded the 1972 American Motors Corporation National Biologist of the Year Award and other awards for efforts to preserve the estuaries.

He was also a key player in stopping a group determined to build the Cross Florida Barge Canal on the Ocklawaha River.

“That area is surrounded by cypress swamp,” Shanks said. “We showed President Richard Nixon, who was visiting the area at the time, the original plan to build a reservoir on the river.”

He explained to the President how it would grow vegetation and stop the flow of a really rich river. With the backing of the President, it was stopped by executive order. DNR took the report and used it word for word.

40 | September 2020

Larry Shanks and a group of volunteers working on building an education center at Bear River, Utah.

Larry Shanks was presented a limited framed edition Defenders of Wildlife print “Restoring the Wolf to Yellowstone National Park” upon his retirement from the National Wildlife Federation.

Larry Shanks received the Wildlife Conservation Award from the Florida Wildlife Federation and the National Wildlife Federation for his efforts to protect the estuaries in Florida during the seven years he worked there.

In January 1971, a federal judge issued an injunction that stopped construction of the canal. This was immediately followed by President Nixon officially halting construction due to the environmental damage it would cause.

Other celebrities that helped Shanks in his wildlife and nature endeavors were Col. Johnson of Johnson and Johnson First Aid Products, Perry Como, Ralph Evinrude, of Evinrude Boating and Engines and his wife, Francis Langford, a 1930’s and 1940’s movie star.

Larry also met and eventually proved invaluable to Walt Disney during scouting for the location for Disney World.

Eventually Larry was called to Washington, D.C., and asked to work as the assistant to the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Shanks missed the field work and transferred to Raleigh, N.C., where he worked as assistant field supervisor.

“That was back when they were trying to repopulate the red wolf in

North Carolina,” he said.

After North Carolina, Shanks created the Annapolis field office in 1972 followed by transitioning to the Louisiana National Coastal Eco-Systems Team where they studied wetlands throughout the United States, from Maine to Alaska.

Shanks and his team got an environmental contaminant program started to determine why frogs have 13 legs, they reflect the environment they are in. They identified the contaminants and the sources of the origin and eventually got out front of the issue, re-establishing a more natural environment where four-legged frogs could thrive.

He had the opportunity to go west and ended up in Denver, Colo., in charge of endangered species. One of those was the black ferret, in a habitat of South Dakota. They found the crucial element to the species survival.

“We added Vitamin E to their diet, and BOOM! We had babies,” Shanks said.

There were still problems because

as they were still trying to raise them on National Prairie Lands in Colorado, the farmers were killing them off.

“The Forest Service was being pushed by grazers to wipe out prairie dogs and it became a war,” said Shanks. “We won.”

Shanks also worked programs that involved Colorado River Fish, grizzly bears, lynx, wolverines, peregrine falcons, California condors, desert tortoise, wolves and mountain lions.

“They are all intermixed,” he said.

“You study one, you study them all.

Yellowstone was getting too many ungulates, elk, deer and moose.

“We started introducing Canadian wolves to Yellowstone, and once we worked with Canadian authorities to stop wolf harvesting north of the border, they started to disperse into Glacier National Park and the Grand Tetons through natural migration.”

However, between the Canadian border and Glacier and Yellowstone, there is a no-man’s land Shanks termed “shoot, shovel and shut up.”

“Any farmer between the border and the parks would kill them,” he said. “We started a fund to reimburse farmers for any cow or calf killed by wolves — the livestock deprivation fund. When I retired, they still had money in that fund.”

As the re-introduction process continued, alpha pairs were released into the national parks.

“They had the most fabulous GPS system ever put in a critter,” Shanks said. “We had one female that crossed Horse Thief River, which was a feat, and ended up, she and her pups were re-captured at Red Lodge and returned to Yellowstone. We ended up having to build enclosures to hold them until we could break the homing instinct.”

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 41

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While not every surrounding state endorsed the wolf repopulation effort, there is hope for the species.

He finished his career at Bear River National Refuge, 90,000 on the north side of the Great Salt Lake in Utah.

“It’s a reverse estuary,” he said.

“The river comes out of the Utah mountains and west to Salt Lake, then turns south into Salt Lake.

Ducks, geese and swans migrate by the millions every year.”

Shanks traveled to Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in Utah, where he was a key player in helping rebuild the education center. He and a young man maned Al Trout gathered up volunteers to help build boardwalks and it was during that time he met Bob Valentine, head of the Bear River National Refuge Center.

“I was talking to him about the need to rebuild the education center,” Shanks said. “He told me to put on a suit and go with him to D.C., and he’d show me how to run the tunnels.

“He got Congressman Hanson of the House Appropriations Committee, and Senator Bennett, of the Senate Appropriations Committee, in the same room and said, ‘This is what will happen.’ An appropriations staffer said, ‘You’re thinking too big.’ Valentine said we wanted $11 million and that’s what we got.”

Of all his accomplishments during his 40-year career, Shanks is most proud of three things.

“The wolves, the ferrets and the State of Florida,” he said. “I absolutely loved living there.

“I’ve lived my dream my whole life. I never passed an opportunity when the Good Lord presented it.

The Lord has opened some amazing doors for me to walk through.” n

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MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 43

CU TEST P ET

Skeeter Skeeter, 4-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, fur baby of Ty Craig of Cassville

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.

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.

Email your pet’s photo to:

connection@monett-times.com 44 | September 2020

RE S CU E D, M Y FAVORI TE B R E E D

September Reminder:

By Christa Stout

Opportunities to share knows no breed, bring bread

A

few days ago I went to a friend’s house and when I walked in, the smell of baking bread was just wonderful, and of course, I said something about it. When I was ready to leave, my friend handed me a loaf of her zucchini bread, wrapped in aluminum foil. I was in seventh heaven. But I was scheduled to volunteer at the Monett Historical Museum so I headed down there to help with the quarterly newsletter.

Of course, my co-worker and I had to sample the bread and pretty soon, almost half of it was gone. After my volunteer time, I packed up my computer case, stuck the remainder of the bread in the case, went home, fed the dogs and then in a hurry, I got ready to go back to town for another appointment. I arrived home about an hour and a half later, started to unlock the door and realized there was something black sticking out of the doggy door.

I stopped dead in my tracks, worried about a potential breakin, but, of course, had to investi-

Don’t forget heartworm treatment and continue with flea and tick preventive.

Is it time for a rabies shot, or an annual vet visit?

gate and found that my computer case (without computer) was half in and half out of the doggy door. I hurried to the kitchen to put down everything I had in my hands and found bits and pieces of aluminum foil all over the floor.

You guessed it, my dogs had managed to get the other half of the bread out of the latched computer case and had devoured the bread – leaving not a crumb anywhere on the floor.

They obviously enjoyed the bread as much as I did.

Anyway, I was sad the bread was gone, then suddenly realized that there were raisins in the bread – not good for doggy tummies. I worried and watched the rest of the night, hoping all was ok. I sighed a sigh of relief

every time three round tummies went up and down, and even the tummy rumbles were good signs — that everything was still ok.

I haven’t admitted to my baking friend that the dogs ate my precious bread, so here is my admission, in public! Forgive me G., but I promise if I ever get another loaf of bread from you, I will guard it with my life.

In the meantime, things at Faithful Friends are picking up, people are dumping and surrendering animals on one hand and adopting on the other hand (thank goodness). It has been a busy time for everyone at the shelter, and I was thinking that it would be nice to have some more volunteers. That thought reminded me of a sign I saw some time ago, it said:

Volunteers are not paid — not because they are worthless, but because they are

PRICELESS.

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 45

And that is so true, none of the non-profit organizations could exist without volunteers. Most do not have paid employees or have only a couple of management employees. And the work the volunteers do may seem trivial at times but is so important.

Luna

is a beautiful calico whose beauty is only surpassed by her desire to love on you. She wants to sit on your shoulder, rub against you and purr so loud it sounds like a diesel engine. She loves high places so she can survey her surroundings. Luna was born in February and has been at the shelter since she was about 2 months old. She can’t wait to have a family to love.

Can you imagine a shelter with dirty laundry through the roof, a phone that goes unanswered, no one to handle social media postings, or even keep the flowers outside weeded. All of these jobs are being done by volunteers, along with working and playing with the animals, socializing those that were mistreated or neglected, teaching them the basic commands, and of course keeping their kennels and environment clean.

Most volunteer jobs only require about two hours’ time and the time spent is so satisfying. To see a dog or cat recognize you from the last time you saw him or her, see a dog’s tail wagging or a cat’s welcoming purr, is so rewarding, and so is knowing that with all the jobs that are being done, the animals are taken care of.

Each volunteer selects the job they would like to do, as well as the times, whether once or more a week/month, the shelters are very accommodating and grateful for the help. They will happily welcome you and introduce you to a group of wonderful volunteers.

Xander

is a wonderful, sweet, happy-go-lucky fellow who arrived at the shelter 50+ days ago. He is smart, can sit (especially if you are holding a treat), and would love to be a part of an active family. Take a look at his picture; don’t you love his smile? Xander is a lab mix, about 18 months old, and hoping his family will find and adopt him soon.

46 | September 2020

And if you are part of a team, such as Boy/Girl Scouts, or a teacher who wants to show their students how to care for animals, please contact your local shelter and ask what you can do to help and in turn, how the shelter could help your group learn about volunteering, pets, etc.

This is truly a win-win situation, so contact your local shelter or pound soon, please! n

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MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 47

REC I P ES

Key West Flank Steak INGREDIENTS

Cheesy BBQ Beef Dip INGREDIENTS

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1 package (15 ounces) refrigerated fully cooked barbecued shredded beef 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup chopped red onion 3/4 cup french-fried onions

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS:

chopped tomatoes, chopped red onion and minced fresh cilantro Tortilla chips

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Spread cream cheese onto bottom of a greased 9-in. pie plate.

Spread evenly with beef.

3. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and red onion. Bake until heated through, 15-20 minutes. Sprinkle with french-fried onions 4. Bake 5 minutes longer. If desired, top with tomatoes, onion and cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips.

48 | September 2020

1 large red onion, sliced 1 cup minced fresh cilantro 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1/4 cup Key lime juice 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 6 Key limes, halved 1 beef flank steak (1 pound) 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper

DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl, combine onion, cilantro, vinegar, lime juice and 2 tablespoons oil until blended.

Pour 1 cup marinade into a large bowl or shallow dish. Add lime halves. Rub steak with remaining oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add to bowl; turn to coat.

Refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.

Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade.

2. Drain steak, discarding marinade and limes in bowl. Place reserved marinade in a food processor; process until chopped.

3. Grill steak, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from heat until meat reaches desired doneness (for medium-rare, a thermometer should read 135°; medium, 140°), 6-8 minutes per side.

Baste occasionally with reserved marinade. Let stand 10 minutes before thinly slicing steak across the grain.

Pico de Gallo INGREDIENTS

6 plum tomatoes, chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 to 2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime) 1 tablespoon cilantro stems, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1/4 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients.

2. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before servings.

Pork Chops with Nectarine Salsa INGREDIENTS

2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 boneless pork loin chops (4 ounces each and 1/2 inch thick) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/4 cup salsa 2 tablespoons apricot spreadable fruit 2 cups sliced peeled nectarines or peaches 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano

DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl, combine the first 6 ingredients. Rub over both sides of pork chops. In a large nonstick skillet, cook pork chops in oil over medium-high heat until juices run clear, 5-6 minutes on each side. Remove to a serving platter and keep warm.

2. In the same skillet, combine salsa and spreadable fruit.

Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook and stir over medium heat for 1 minute. Stir in nectarines, cilantro and oregano; cook until heated through, 2-3 minutes. Serve with pork.

Chicken Parmesan Burgers INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 3/4 cup marinara sauce, divided 1/2 cup finely chopped or shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 pound ground chicken 4 slices part-skim mozzarella cheese 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Fresh basil leaves, optional

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, about 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Remove from heat; cool slightly.

Red, White, and Blue Fruit Cups INGREDIENTS

1 pint fresh strawberries 1 pint fresh blueberries 1 pint fresh blackberries 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1 pint heavy whipping cream

DIRECTIONS 1. Slice strawberries and combine in a bowl with blue and/or blackberries.

Sprinkle berries with two teaspoons sugar.

2. Whip cream until soft peaks form and sweeten with remaining sugar. Serve berries in small cups with generous spoonfuls of fresh whipped cream.

2. In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup marinara sauce, chopped mozzarella cheese, bread crumbs, seasonings and onion mixture. Add chicken; mix lightly but thoroughly. With wet hands, shape into four 1/2-in.-thick patties.

3. In the same skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat. Cook burgers until a thermometer reads 165°, 4-5 minutes on each side. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese; cook, covered, until cheese is melted, 1-2 minutes.

4. Serve in buns; top with remaining 1/2 cup marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese and, if desired, basil leaves.

MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 49

PA RT I NG S H OT

Photo taken in Alley Springs, Missouri

by PeteLewis Rauch Photo

by Cathy

“Look beneath the surface; let not the several quality of a thing nor its worth escape thee.” ― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

Education begins the gentleman, but reading, good company and reflection must finish him.

–John Locke

50 | September 2020

Advertiser Index Acambaro Mexican...........................43 Aire Serv................................................ 9 A-List Properties...............................42 Barry Lawrence Regional Library..... 3 Bill Vance Marine................................ 9 Bruner Pharmacy...............................28 Cappy Harris Realtors......................15 Carey’s Cassville Florist...................21 Cox Medical Center..........................52 Cubs Café...........................................24 Diet Center.........................................38 Doug’s ProLube.................................21 Edward Jones....................................... 5 First State Bank of Purdy................36 Fohn Funeral Home..........................27 Four Seasons Real Estate................21 Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri. .......................................................... 6 Guanajuato........................................... 2 J&J Floor Covering...........................32 Johnson Chiropractic.......................24 Ken’s Collision Center......................43 Kiddie City..........................................28 Lackey Body Works..........................42 Les Jacobs Ford..................................47 Lil Boom Town...................................47 Missouri Farm Bureau......................38 My Best Friend’s Closet...................15 Ozark Methodist Manor..................42 Peppers and Co.................................15 Race Brothers....................................43 Real Life Church................................38 Roaring River Health & Rehab........27 Rusty Gate Flea Market...................24 Security Bank of Southwest Missouri...............................................51 Shelter Insurance.......................28, 47 The Coffee Café.................................. 9 The Farmer’s Daughter...................... 6 Tisha Trotter......................................... 8 Trogdon Marshall..............................51 VisionHealth Eye Center.................27 White’s Insurance.............................32 Whitley Pharmacy............................... 2

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MOConnection.com | Connection Magazine | 51