Connection January 2014

FREE Discovering lost talents

TRACKS, TRAPS AND FURS PAGE 13

PAGE 6

Trapper follows family tradition in the fur trade

The extraordinary transformation of Rae PAGE 24

Winter birdwatching PAGE 40

JANUARY 2014

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 1

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JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE

CONTENTS JANUARY 2014

34 6

TRACKS, TRAPS AND FURS Trapper follows family tradition in the fur trade

13

DISCOVERING LOST TALENTS

19

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE Picking up a lost milestone by earning a high school diploma

24

THE EXTRAORDINARY TRANSFORMATION OF RAE

30

THE AMBASSADOR

34

GROW, ROAST, GRIND, SERVE A coffee experience that goes beyond your typical brew

40

WINTER BIRDWATCHING

50

I SAW PRETTY BOY FLOYD

JANUARY 2014

ON THE COVER: The red fox is the largest species of fox, and is one of the most important furbearing animals of the fur trade.

PHOTO BY JEFF TERRY

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 3

Connection

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DISTRIBUTION Jim Bower Greg Gilliam TO ADVERTISE 417-847-2610 - Cassville 417-235-3135 - Monett Send e-mail inquiries to thorntonlives@gmail.com Mailing address: P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708 or P.O. Box 486, Cassville MO 65625 Connection is published monthly and distributed free in Cassville, Monett, Exeter, Washburn, Pierce City, Mt. Vernon, Aurora, Verona, Roaring River, Eagle Rock, Shell Knob, Purdy, Wheaton, Freistatt, Marionville, Seligman, Golden and other surrounding areas.

Connection is a publication of the Cassville Democrat, The Monett Times and Rust Communications.

JANUARY 2014

Start off on the right foot at the right place. Come see our 2014 specials!

EDITOR’S NOTE THROUGH THE YEARS, I HAVE HEARD, FROM TIME TO time, “It’s bad luck to put away the Christmas tree until after New Year’s Day.” I always end up waiting till after the first of the year, just because from Christmas to New Year’s is festive, and once the tree is down, the party is over.

While putting away the ornaments, and looking through the Christmas cards, which get less and less every year because of electronic communication and the cost of stamps, it’s easy to get hung up reminiscing about how the years have passed. Pictures of friends and families inserted in the cards are a telling reminder of how quickly the years slide by.

This process helps to mark the start of the new year, and knowing that the previous year is gone and will never return. Now it is 2014. Time is a funny thing. It moves at exactly the same pace all the time. More than any other law of nature that we live by, time passes silently, but with consistent momentum that no earthly power can stop.

In my day-to-day living, I catch myself wishing that time would slow down. I guess it’s because of being “busy.” I often wish, “If the day was 36 hours long, I could get it all done.” But, what on earth would that do, but just give me more time to fill with even more “busy-ness.”

I guess what it comes around to, is that when the new year is here, it’s a fresh start. I try to think of what’s important in life, and what needs to change to make life more enjoyable for me and everyone around me. Obviously, this then becomes a chore of prioritizing. Yuck, who wants to think about prioritizing, that sounds like doing taxes or going to the dentist. So, I guess I will just keep plugging away and plowing through. Life goes on...seconds pass, days end.

Though it sounds fatalistic, aren’t we so blessed? Every day that passes provides us with a different and uniquely beautiful sunrise and sunset. Every day is an opportunity to love and laugh, and work and play.

This January, whether you do take time to prioritize, decide to change a habit, or just commit yourself to living life to the fullest, I wish you the best of luck.

Sherry Tucker Take care now,

JANUARY 2014

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COME ENCOUNTER A PROPHETIC AWAKENING! CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 5

TRACKS, TRAPS AND FURS STORY BY STEVE CHAPMAN PHOTOS BY JEFF TERRY AND STEVE CHAPMAN

FOLLOWING FAMILY TRADITION IN THE FUR TRADE

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DANNY POWERS CROUCHES OVER A drying puddle just about 50 yards behind his house. “Raccoon,” he says as he points at a set of tracks that have been left in the mud. Pointing to another set of tracks, he says “Coyote.” Looking over a third set, he says “Fox.” Danny is a man who wears a lot of hats. He is a husband, father, mail carrier, carpenter, welder, farmer, rodeo participant, mechanic and a horseman. As trapping season starts this month, however, Danny will take on one of his favorite roles: fur trapper.

For over 20 years, Danny has been trapping fur-bearing mammals. Third generation in his family to do so, he uses the same traps that his father and grandfather used and has become an expert in tracking and catching a large variety of the animals that live in the Flat Creek area. He estimates he takes about 150 hides a year, mainly raccoons.

As a result of his years of trapping, Danny has learned a great deal about the behavior patterns of the animals he is after.

He uses this knowledge to pick the best spots to place his traps. “On the trapping part,” he says, “I would take and set my trap, find a location, and I would find the way they travel, I would find their eating patterns,

things like that. Water-- everything has to drink water. Maybe where they live, the atlas of where they like to live, the things they like, whether it be a road, brush, creeks, bluffs, trees-- whatever it is for that particular animal.” Once Danny is certain he has found a spot where he thinks his prey will likely come across, he sets the trap and will return daily to check it.

Though Danny estimates that he has 3,000 acres of land he can legally trap on, one of his prime locations is a brush

JANUARY 2014

pile found on his 37-acre spread not too far from his house. The brush pile, he explains, is used as shelter by rodents. “It has everything,” he says. “Rabbits, mice and rats.” The rodents, he says, attract the animals he is after, such as foxes, coyotes and bobcats.

As with any type of activity involving wildlife, there are numerous laws to be followed when placing traps. “You have to know what you can set up; you have to know where you can set up,” Danny says.

“Private land… you’re supposed to have permission. You’re supposed to have a permit if it’s on government land. You’re supposed to be so far off the road. You’ve got to have a permit to put a snare up; a snare is a cable restraint, and there’s regulations as to what’s on the cables.”

The types of traps Danny uses often depend on the locations where he traps. Conibear traps (a widely used body gripping trap) are useful in water to catch animals that live near creeks and streams, like otters for example. Short coils, on the other hand, are used on dry land, and

JANUARY JANUARY 2014 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 7

IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT STRETCHER TO BE SURE THE FUR IS THE CORRECT WIDTH AND THICKNESS FOR GETTING THE BEST PRICE WHEN TAKING THE FUR TO MARKET.

long coils can be used in both places.

Traps have to be set and secured carefully, as animals will naturally try to break loose of them once they have been caught. If the trap is not properly secured, a snared animal that is strong enough may drag the trap quite a distance from its original location. Danny tells a story about such an occurrence with an otter he trapped. “The first otter I ever caught, it was in a Conibear trap, on Flat Creek, and my trap was gone from where I set it and I had it wired, even, to a root wad and the trap was completely gone, and I didn’t have any idea where it was at, or I just figured somebody just stole my trap.

“Well, I got to looking, me and a friend of mine, and looked out in the middle of the creek, and my trap was out in the middle of the creek with an otter in it. Otters are very strong, and I didn’t know this. I didn’t know how strong an otter was, but he’d fought that thing all the way off to the middle of the creek; tore that root wad and everything.”

But in the end, Danny still got him.

After Danny has caught and killed his prey, he will take the animals to the fur

HAVE SOME FURS TO SELL? Though Danny traps fur, he also buys it from other fur trappers.

Mostly, he buys fur from the people he knows, but is open to buying furs from others as well. “People can bring them to me,” he says, or I can go to them if they’ve got big quantities; they call them lots.”

However, Danny only goes to people who have large lots to sell. “It needs to be worth my while for going,” he says. “I wouldn’t go for two or three coons or nothing like that.”

Danny prices furs on a case by case basis, but at the time of the interview, he stated he would pay $9 to $10 a fur for raccoons on average, and $8 - $10 per fur for coyotes on average. For other types of fur, he wanted to wait to closer to season to set a price. Actual prices will depend on the quality of the furs; Danny says he will consider various factors such as “how you skin it; if your dogs tore them up; if you have big bullet holes in them; if your traps tore them up. . . it just varies so much.”

If you have some furs you are interested in selling to Danny or would like to buy some, he can be reached at 417-442-7183 between the hours of 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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JANUARY 2014

shed on his farm to begin the process of removing their pelts. First, he will brush out the furs to make sure all burrs and all other foreign objects caught in the hides are removed. Danny says this is a very important step when skinning the animals.

“When you’re fleshing it, the burr, if you hit a burr, it will cut the hide,” he explains. “So you want your hide fairly clean.”

Once the fur is brushed out, Danny will skin the animals and then clean the inside of the pelts. “I would put them on the fleshing beam and scrape all the gristle and the fat and the junk inside.” Afterward, the hides are put on stretchers to dry. Danny explains that the choice of stretcher is very important to make sure the fur is the correct width and thickness for getting the best price when taking the fur to market.

“If you don’t put it up right on the stretcher, the width might hurt you; they might knock you down a size,” he said.

According to Danny, there are several factors in determining a fur’s market value, including whether the fur has been damaged, its color, thickness and size. Fur trappers also need to consider who they are going to sell their furs to. “I sell to the auctions,” he said. “It’s kind of a gamble on sending them to the auction, because you don’t know if the prices are going to go up, go down or going to stay the same.”

Though trapping and selling fur is currently a side-line for Danny, he would like to be able to work in the business full-time. “This is something I’ve always wanted to do, to buy fur,” he says. “So I’ve gotten into it in the past few years, and have gotten to where I want to try to buy and sell. I’d like to get into it a little more, and learn more about it; the selling part and the fur market, and that’s how you get better. Better handling, better buying, better selling. Just doing it.”

WHILE KEEPING FAMILY TRADITIONS ALIVE, DANNY POWERS, ABOVE, LOVES THE HUNT AND ADVENTURE OF TRAPPING AND TRADING.

JANUARY 2014

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JANUARY 2014

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JAXSON IS JANUARY’S C UTEST

Jaxson Hayes, son of Tyler and Carla Hayes, and brother of Levi and Jaeron. Jaxson’s grandparents are Donnie and Connie Gautney, Robert Hayes and Debra Glueckert.

His great-grandparents are Kim Gautney, Eunice Sapp, Bob and Kay Hayes, and Don and Kay Veatch.

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tio nt e hild’s resolu this co ion. Th your c ighest ose of ormat f h p r e in Email u h t p t c t nta sole rmat a our co or the JPG fo y and y used f it e c b , l e il g a dw name, bmitte otos su h p e h JANUARY2014 2014 T JANUARY

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Discovering lost talents STORY AND PHOTOS BY KERRY HAYS

MARCIA NICHOLLS WAS born and raised on a farm in Iowa. Growing up, she always had an interest in art – particularly drawing.

“As a kid, I was always doodling,” said Marcia, “I had a horse and I loved drawing horses.”

“The Community, Home of Lost Talents” was the title of an address presented by Joseph Lee to the National Conference on Social Work in June, 1919.

In that address, Lee issued a challenge for consideration that continues to resonate with many today – nearly 95 years later.

MARCIA NICHOLLS WITH HER PIECE, “A MONSTER WITH OFFERING” CREATED WITH DRIFTWOOD AND FINDINGS.

Attending a small rural high school, Marcia lacked the opportunities to continue developing her talent during those formative years. The school she attended didn’t offer art classes, and she graduated with no thought of finding a way to use her creative skills professionally.

“In Iowa, you either became a nurse or a teacher when I was a kid,” said Marcia. “Back in the 1960s, those were your choices.

Art was never considered a lucrative career.”

JANUARY 2014

“HIACYNTH BUSSELWATH” BY MARCIA NICHOLLS FROM AN ART METHOD CALLED “TRASHE.”

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Marcia attended the University of Iowa where she earned a master’s degree in speech pathology and audiology. She started a career, got married, had two kids and realized there were some dreams that needed to be set aside.

“We all need great occasions when we are carried beyond ourselves. The substitute must not be merely a place, but an experience. The experience of getting beyond yourself, of doing what you could not do, expending the power that was never there, and achieving a new dimension of the soul.”

“In every one of us there are divine voices unanswered, authoritative mandates unfulfilled. We have refused adventure, renounced the path we might have followed, heard one door after another shutting behind us and the fading of some accent that had the power to reach our soul.”

“THE PROFESSOR” BY MARCIA NICHOLLS,CREATED FROM RIVER DRIFTWOOD AND FINDINGS.

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“When you start working, you just never seem to find time for art,” said Marcia, whose journey eventually led to retirement in her mid-50s and relocation from South Bend, Indiana, where she worked in city development, to the Missouri Ozarks. Once here, she reached back into her past and answered the call of the “divine voice” referenced by Joseph Lee, discovering it did indeed have the power to touch her soul.

“It just fulfills my creative spirit,” said Marcia. “I keep trying new things. It flowed so naturally from being able to doodle and play to just giving more hours to it.”

She progressed rapidly through a variety of different means of artistic expression, always growing, always learning, and always creating.

“I started out with watercolors, I think everybody does,” said Marcia. “When we moved down here, I continued with pastels and then acrylics, which I still work with now.

JANUARY 2014

JO DANIELS ENJOYS ACRYLIC PAINTING.

“LITTLE GUY”

BY JO DANIELS

Then I got interested in threedimensional stuff, what I call trashe` – a combination of clay and paper mache.”

Marcia estimates that she spends a minimum of five hours each day engaged in one form of creative expression or another. While watching television, she’ll have a ball of clay that will eventually become a head or a face.

“To me, creating art is satisfying – it fulfills my need to leave something tangible, and hopefully creative, that someone else can get enjoyment from,” said Marcia.

Marcia has become very active in local art groups, and in fact was involved in the formation of Creative Arts of Shell Knob. This cooperative venture includes a gallery that provides local artists with a venue to exhibit – and sell their work. The cooperative also provides workshops, which she sees as a great opportunity for someone who wants to explore their muse.

“Many people are surprised with the product that comes JANUARY 2014

out, and it takes a little confidence” said Marcia. “I think people get frightened when they see beautiful art, they think ‘I could never do anything like that,’ but if they’ve never given it a chance, then they’ll never see they can be just as creative as Picasso.”

up working for a variety of companies as a decorator and salesperson.

“I’d done some sketches when I was younger and did not realize that I had given them to a couple of friends,” said Jo. “I visited one of my friends I’ve had for over 40 years, and

“We must reveal the lost talents not only of the talented, but of all the rest. We must have community singing, pageantry, dramatics and mass expression for those too shy to star. Many of these shall be stars differing indeed from other stars in glory, but not without a special radiance.”

Jo Daniels was born and raised in Kansas City, Mo., where she was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to take art classes while in high school. Nevertheless, she never thought of herself as an artist.

“I always had an interest in art, I was more of an art appreciator,” said Jo. “I never thought I had the talent a lot of other people had, but I always loved art.”

After graduating from high school, Jo took classes in interior decorating and ended

she had one of those sketches hanging in her bedroom. They knew I had the talent that I didn’t appreciate in myself.”

Jo’s first husband died at an early age, and she single-handedly raised three daughters who are now all successful teachers. She remarried 15 years ago and relocated to the area in 2007 with her husband, Ed Banks. Jo began exploring and discovering her talents as an artist once she moved to the Ozarks. Her primary medium is

acrylic paintings.

“The first thing I ever painted was a painting for a wall in my new home here in Shell Knob,” said Jo. “I looked at a print that was in a photo, and I painted a large floral for over a bed.”

It was a simply conversation between Marcia and Jo that led to the formation of Creative Arts of Shell Knob. Jo has taken art classes through the years and believe it’s important to try something even if you’ve never done it before.

“We’re all our own worst critics,” said Jo. “I think it’s unbelievable the number of people we’ve come in contact with who have started their art after retirement.”

Marcia agrees and offers therapeutic advice for anyone willing to take the risk and make new discoveries about themselves after retirement.

“By the time you retire, you’ve lived in the world awhile and you’ve mellowed out your ragged edges,” said Marcia.

“Artist are like gardeners, they want to just be able to create and be in a peaceful, beautiful world. It is very therapeutic.”

Joseph Lee (1862-1937) was a Harvard educated philanthropist and advocate for various social causes who served as president of the War Camp Community Service program during World War I. Lee is largely remembered as the father of the public recreation movement in America.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 15

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JANUARY 2014

Auld Lang Syne

BY SHEILA

HARRIS

Should auld acquaintance be forgot and auld lang syne?

With its haunting melody and the baffling lyrics penned by Scots poet Robert Burns in 1788, the meaning of the old Scottish tune traditionally sang on New Year’s Eve has long been a mystery to many of us. What there is no doubt of, however, is that the song evokes a startling depth of emotion, and when literally translated, the lyrics are a call to remembrance of old friends and times gone by.

always a little too busy to stop and introduce myself. In fact, I With the rolling over of another calendar year, the beginning of had never even read any of her columns, in the mistaken belief a new year is traditionally a time for recalling the past, an occupation that they were for older people, a title I’ve been reluctant to which may or may not be profitable. If the past contains happy assume. However, when asked to write this January column memories, or even painful ones, which we’ve learned from, then after Sally’s passing, I randomly selected three different occasional consideration of its treasures can be a wonderful thing. issues of the magazine from previous Unfortunately, too many people months, and settled into read what I had contemplate the past as a way of The past cannot be heretofore neglected. remembering wrongs committed against undone, but today As words so often do for me, hers them. By keeping old wounds open, they sprang vividly to life, offering me a glimpse bring constant pain to themselves and those offers the chance for a into the heart of the beautiful, adventurous closest to them. The first step in forgiving spirit who had penned them. As I read, I others is often letting go of those memories. brand new beginning. became certain that if I had met her, Sally Other people live with deep regrets over and I would have become the dearest of friends, and I grieved for personal actions taken (or not taken) in the past. By constantly that missed opportunity. But I can’t turn back the hands of time. My looking over their shoulder and berating themselves, these only recourse is to take her serendipitous words and be open to the sensitive souls hope to somehow do penance for their perceived possibility of new friendships in my future. failures. From personal experience, I can tell you it doesn’t work.

The past cannot be undone, but today offers the chance for Peace only comes through forgiving yourself and looking forward. a brand new beginning. As I’ve often reminded my children, “It’s Because we are human, most of us live with regrets of one never too late to start again.” type or another. They go with the territory. To expect perfection Along with the singing of Auld Lang Syne on New Year’s in ourselves or others is expecting too much. What’s important, Eve, the Scots have another beautiful tradition. During the first now, is to take the lessons learned from past disappointments and verses of the song, each person takes the hand of the person on regrets and apply them to the future. either side of them. When the last verse of the song begins, each One of my regrets is that I didn’t become acquainted with person then crosses their arms in front of them and takes their our “Living Life After 55” columnist, Sally Reinhart, while she neighbor by the opposite hands, symbolizing the linking of the was with us. I used to see her occasionally when she popped past with the future. into The Monett Times to drop off her monthly essays, but I was

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JANUARY 2014

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 17

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JANUARY 2014

It’s never too late

Picking up a lost milestone by earning a high school diploma S TO R Y A N D P H OTO S B Y S H E I L A H A R R I S

Many people in the United States take their high school diplomas for granted as simply the documents which granted them rite of passage into what they considered the adult world of college or the work force.

But for a large number of Americans, a high school diploma was a milestone never achieved. In previous generations, because a high school diploma was not a requisite for most jobs, when teens left school in order to help support their families, or to begin families of their own, their lack of a diploma was often no impediment to their future financial stability. However, in today’s tightened job market, the lack of a diploma often constitutes a huge barrier to entering the work force. With classes funded by Adult Education and Literacy grants, Crowder College is providing a way for people to cross that barrier.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 19

Teaching the basic subjects necessary to pass the High School Equivalency (HSE) Test (previously called the GED test), Crowder College offers adult education classes free of charge at 14 locations throughout Barry, Lawrence, McDonald and Newton counties. Although there is no charge for the classes themselves, effective January 1, there is a $95 fee to take the computer-based equivalency test.

For some students, such as Verna Lee of rural Purdy, taking the HSE test represented the dream of a lifetime.

“I dropped out of high school 43 years ago at age 16, to get married and start a family,” stated Verna. “But going back to school someday was always in the back of my mind.”

With the last of her four children raised, Verna was in need of something to fill the void left behind after devoting most of her life to home schooling them. She

“The biggest problem I had at first was just asking for help. I had been out of high school for 35 years, and it took a little time to get back in the swing of school work again. But once I asked for help, I realized how willing the teachers were to help me. It was the only way I could have learned. Yes, it was humbling, but also very exciting.” -- Robert Lewis decided it was time to invest in her own education and began taking daily classes at Crowder College’s Monett adult education site. Along with more than 80 other area students, Verna graduated last May in a large cap-and-gown ceremony at the Crowder College campus in Neosho. She was 59 years old.

“It was a dream come true,” declared Verna, her eyes welling with tears. “I want to encourage anyone who has been thinking about it, to do it before they get any older.

It’s never too late. I really enjoyed the

classes, as well as meeting new people.

Some of the math was a little hard, but the teachers were wonderful.”

Kathy Stegman, adult education instructor for Crowder College in Monett, states that although Verna Lee may have been a bit older than some of her other students, her eagerness to learn is typical.

“When people come to adult education classes, it stems from a desire to improve their lives and they view this as an important first step. They are always eager to learn and it’s very rewarding to be able to help them,” Kathy declared.

“I began teaching adult education In Barry and Lawrence counties, those interested in enrolling in classes, or volunteering to assist with teaching, may call one of the following numbers: Monett: 417-235-0065 Mt. Vernon: 417-461-5422 Cassville: 417-847-1706 Seligman: 417-455-5521 Shell Knob: 417-858-2887 Crowder also offers free classes to prepare students for the Compass (college placement) Test. According to Adult Education Director, Juli De Nisco, a student will be able to learn a lot in a short amount of time with these classes. Many students only take classes for a few weeks and they’re able to score well on their Compass Tests.

English as Second Language classes are available, as well as Adult Education Classes in Spanish, provided by the High School Equivalency Program for migrants.

20 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

for Crowder about 10 years ago,” Kathy continued. “My very first student was a 17-year-old girl who had dropped out of high school to take care of her dad, who was ill with cancer, while her mother worked. When she passed her High School Equivalency test, I was as excited as she was. I realized, then, that I was hooked.”

“People drop out of high school for any number of reasons, usually due to family circumstances,” stated Kathy. “It’s not because they’re lazy. Many of my adult students had to leave school when they were young because their families moved constantly and they were unable to stay in one school long enough to learn a particular subject. Others had health issues or were

JANUARY 2014

pregnant, or had to support a family. While a lot of us take our education for granted, my students don’t. They’re here because they want to be here, because they know this is the key that will open future doors.”

Robert Lewis, of Monett, who dropped out of high school when he was 16 to help his mother support the family, went straight into the workforce. He eventually became a production supervisor for Tyson Foods, a position he held for 25 years. After a disabling back injury left him unemployed, Robert suffered from depression.

“With a disability and no high school diploma, my hopes for the future looked pretty slim,” he stated. “Because I was unable to work, I decided to enroll in adult

education classes and take my High School Equivalency test. It seemed like a step in the right direction toward finding another job.”

“The biggest problem I had at first was just asking for help,” he declared. “I had that male pride thing going on, and it was a little humiliating to admit that I couldn’t learn on my own. But I couldn’t. I had been out of high school for 35 years, and it took a little time to get back in the swing of school work again. But once I asked for help, I realized how much I needed it, and I realized how willing the teachers were to help me. It was the only way I could have learned. Yes, it was humbling, but also very exciting.”

Robert passed his HSE test in August of 2012 at age 51. He feels like it was a major milestone in his life.

“It feels so good to be able to check the little box on job applications now, the one that asks if you have a high school diploma,” he stated. “Plus, I know there are a lot more employment options out there for me now.”

Robert now works as a volunteer teacher for the adult education center in Monett, believing it’s a way that he can give something back to the community in return for what has been given to him.

Some students are younger. Cassandra Bales dropped out of high school in 2009 because her family had moved so often that she was unable to catch up with the curriculum in any of the schools she attended. She recently began attending adult education classes with the goal of passing her HSE test and enrolling in college to become a teacher.

“It’s important to me to set this example for my children,” stated Cassandra.

“I want them to take their own education seriously when they are old enough to begin school.”

In Monett, in addition to Kathy Stegman, Crowder College employs teachers Molly Dyke, Dan Johnson, Carlos Ramirez, who teaches classes in Spanish three nights a week, and B. J. Stegman, who teaches ESL classes.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 21

Library connection With the New Year, Barry-Lawrence Regional Library is offering a new service, eBooks! BLRL will be subscribing to OverDrive, a full-service distributor of eBooks. OverDrive currently hosts more than 1 million premium digital titles from more than 2,000 publishers. Library card holders will have 24/7 online access to a vast catalog of digital titles. Cardholders will be able to read eBooks on a variety of devices, including PC and Mac computers, iPhones, iPads, iPod touch, Android, and many eBook readers such as Sony Reader, NOOK, Kobo eReader and Kindle. Check with your local branch for more information on how you can take advantage of this new service.

Even though it is only January, we began planning our summer reading programs for 2014 this past November. In June, your local branch will be providing programs and activities for all age groups, pre-school through adult. Signing your children up for summer reading is a great way to keep their reading skills sharp in preparation for the next school year.

Don’t just sign up your children, sign up yourself!

There are special programs and prizes just for adults.

Don’t let the kids have all the fun.

In the meantime these recommended reads can be found on the shelves of the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library.

When She Woke

by Hillary Jordan (adult fiction) In the not too distant future convicted criminals in the United States are no longer incarcerated. They are “chromed.” Their skin color is genetically altered to match the class of their crime. Red is for murder. When Hannah wakes up, she is red. Not a subtle shade of red. Stop sign red. Hannah has always been devoted to her church and family. Then she is convicted of murder. Did she really commit murder? Who is she trying to protect? How will she survive in a society that ostracizes Chromes? I was sorry to see this book end. C.W.

The Cassville Branch library staff consists of Verna Fry, youth services; Jane Severson, library clerk; Angie Judd, library clerk; Amanda Miller, adult services; and Cheryl Williams, supervisor.

22 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

Storm Front

by John Sandford (mystery) This most recent Virgil Flowers book is fast paced with an eclectic mix of characters. A rare artifact with the potential to upset the foundation of at least two of the world’s major religions turns up in rural Minnesota and Virgil must untangle the complicated web of numerous parties, false trails, big money and potential violence to find it and set things right. Of course, his attraction to the ladies (and theirs to him) enters into the picture and complicates things.

I always enjoy the escapades of Virgil, and this book was no exception. It’s a fun, fast read. J.S.

If I Should Die

by Amy Plum (young adult fiction) This thrilling and romantic conclusion to the “Die For Me” series was everything I hoped it would be.

It asks the ultimate question: How much are you willing to sacrifice for true love? Packed full of action, suspense, and of course romance, this is a series no one should miss, young and old alike. A.M.

The Running Dream

by Wendelin Van Draanen (young adult fiction) Go to any running event and you’re likely to see a shirt touting RUN, EAT, SLEEP, REPEAT. That was the life for Jessica, high school track star, until a tragic accident changed her life forever.

Is this the end of her running dream? Read this 2013-2014 Truman Award Nominee to discover the touching answer. V.F.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane

by Neil Gaiman (science fiction) After returning to his hometown to attend a funeral, the narrator finds himself at an old farmhouse owned by the Hempstock family. Returning to this farm, the narrator’s forgotten childhood memories of an 11-year-old girl named Lettie, and a dangerous and terrifying past come flooding back. Gaiman draws you into this fantastically creepy and magical world. This was the first book that I’ve read by him and I devoured it in one night. I’m positive that I’ll be reading this author in the future. A.J.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 23

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JANUARY 2014

the extraordinary transformation of rae

STORY BY DORI THOMAS

yoga is the physical, mental and spiritual practices or disciplines, which originated in ancient India with a view to attain a state of permanent peace and has been popularly defined as a “union with the divine.”

For L. Rae, it was just the thing she needed. In 1999, her health was declining.

At a little over 450 pounds, she felt tired, achy and just not herself. As she came upon 30 years old, she knew she had to do something. Years of poor food choices along with a sedentary lifestyle had gotten her to this point. She knew she had to do something drastic. She had tried diets and other so-called weight loss solutions, only to have the weight come back with a vengeance, sometimes doubling what she had lost.

She wasn’t aligned with herself at all.

Avoiding mirrors and ignoring the added

JANUARY 2014

pounds each year wasn’t working either. It was time to take an holistic approach.

And so, she took it one step at a time, literally, starting on a treadmill and working up to water aerobics. The YMCA was now a place where she felt at home, exercise giving her more energy and self-confidence. One day she decided to try that “stretching and movement” class called Yoga.

Even though she got some stares from the “dancer-types” that also attended the class, the teacher was welcoming and nonjudgmental. Soon Rae was being used as an example of how to do the poses and

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 25

even substituted for the teacher a few times. It seemed that Rae was a natural at yoga. Within a few years, the staff at the YMCA took notice and offered her a teaching position.

Fast forward to 2013…Rae has lost 230 pounds and now is a Registered Yoga Teacher with her own Yoga studio in Shell Knob. LifeSpring Holistic Gallery is Rae’s vision and her life’s calling.

She attributes the practice of yoga to her healthier self. “The yoga philosophies teach us to be more aware, creating a union between our body, mind and spirit in order to bring balance to our lives. I am a living example of how to work to become your best self. I am the ‘big’ girl who has transformed into the person sharing her story about weight loss and better living.”

Making changes to her lifestyle included

changing her diet and her way of thinking.

Rae recommends taking the blinders off, stop ignoring your image in the mirror and become more aware. When she first started practicing yoga, she could not always do the poses, but “I always put my best effort forward, despite that little voice telling me I was too big. Now I rise to the challenge, and my little voice is confident I can do it.”

“we have to be more responsible with our health, and we must have better conversations with ourselves.”

RAE BEFORE HER TRANSFORMATION

26 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Her advice to others embarking on a similar journey is to try Yoga. “It’s not just because I am a teacher. Yoga truly has something for everyone at any age, shape or place in life. It can bring balance to all parts of your life.”

She also recommends drinking plenty of water and to breathe. “As we age our breathing becomes more shallow, practicing better breathing through Yoga can help prevent many respiratory diseases.”

Studies do show that Yoga can have many health benefits including weight loss, better concentration and flexibility.

“Yoga is the most extraordinary path of transformation for whatever may imbalance you.”

Not only has Rae come along way, but so has the practice of yoga. “Yoga is at least 5,000 years old. Women were not allowed to practice it until the 1800s.”

She has learned from authentic modernday teachers in order to bring it to the mainstream, so that everyone can benefit.

Rae is constantly practicing and her teaching style reflects it. “Since everyone is on their own journey, I practice and teach a variety of styles of yoga, depending on the class.”

JANUARY 2014

benefits of yoga: + increases flexibility and balance + increases energy and longevity + increases respiratory health + increases sense of well-being + improves mood + improves concentration + decreases symptoms of heart disease + decreases depression + decreases tension and anxiety release + reduces high blood pressure + weight loss

With 80 pounds to go in order to reach her weight loss goal, Rae has been ramping up her own workouts and adds some other disciplines of exercise into her classes.

“I love mixed martial arts, Tia Chi, many kinds of physical exercise.” Keeping it real and fresh keeps a smile on Rae’s face.“ Just when I think I’m not doing so well, I get a sign that I am right where I’m supposed to be.” She is quick to note that her journey may seem like a long one to some, but to

her it has all happened just as it is should.

Rae is also quick to point out that “Yoga is not a religion, but religions have adopted the yoga practices. The purpose of yoga is to gain extraordinary consciousness.“ Through that heightened awareness one can find the balance needed to catapult you into those big life changes.

“If peace, better health, relationships, weight loss or balance in life is what you seek, Yoga may just be your answer.”

“i am the ‘big’ girl who has transformed into the person sharing her story about weight loss and better living.”

LifeSpring Holistic Galleryis located in Timberoc Village at the intersection of Highway 39 and YY in Shell Knob.

For more information, call 417-3802136 or visit LifeSpring’s website at lifespringholisticgallery.com or find Rae on Facebook at facebook.com/pages/ Lifespring-Holistic-Gallery.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 27

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 29

The A

ROBIN KIER IS THE STUDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR AT CROWDER COLLEGE IN CASSVILLE

30 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

“She would rather light candles than curse the darkness, and her glow has warmed the world.” Adlai Stevenson spoke these beautiful words on Nov. 7, 1962, as he eulogized former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. As the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Stevenson likely identified many qualities of a successful ambassador within the beloved First Lady. They are easy to spot.

Effective ambassadors represent their country or organization with clarity, integrity, transparency and vigor. They bridge seemingly impossible gaps, create and nurture relationships and provide any form of assistance that the job may require. They make real and accessible that which they represent.

I met such an ambassador last summer, when my husband decided on the spur of the moment to return to college after a seven-year hiatus. After working in the special education department at Purdy as an aide, he dreamed of pursuing a degree in education, with the intent to serve as a special education teacher.

Brandon discovered his passion at Purdy, but he needed to find his path to its fulfillment. Enter Robin Kier, the Student Services Coordinator at Crowder College, Cassville. She helped Brandon navigate the paperwork, scheduling and financial hurdles in his path and patiently answered question after question. When we expressed our gratitude and mentioned she deserved a big pay raise, she responded, “I have been blessed to have a job that I truly love for 26 years. Seeing students better their lives and accomplish their goals is a priceless experience.”

As I read Robin’s response, I considered how many inspirational stories she must have to share after 26 years as an educational ambassador. I also considered

JANUARY 2014

Ambassador

BY SUSAN FUNKHOUSER

the possibility that some of my readers might be dreaming of returning to school or might know someone in the same boat in which Brandon found himself. I invited Robin to sit down for an interview, and she gladly accepted. Upon entering her cozy office filled with family photos and inspirational quotes, I felt instantly at home, a technique employed by all successful ambassadors. The next 30 minutes flew, as I got to know the person behind the title of Crowder College Student Services Coordinator, a fancy name for ambassador.

Robin Kier was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma (Go Pokes!), but spent a great deal of her childhood time in Neosho, visiting her grandparents. During her college years her grandfather fell ill, and Robin moved to the area to help care for him. She attended and graduated from Missouri Southern State College. “Missouri Southern was a great experience for me!” she said enthusiastically. In addition to earning her college degree in her early years in Missouri, Robin also became a mom, welcoming daughter Raven and son Reed into her life and heart.

Robin began her tenure with Crowder College in August 1987, at the main campus in Neosho. “At the time, it was the only campus,” Robin recalls. “I was the first Admissions Counselor hired at Crowder College. I sponsored student government and student activities, and I was privileged to start the Student Ambassador Program.”

Student ambassadors help with office work, admissions and recruitment, conduct campus tours, attend high school recruitment fairs and implement special programs. In return for their labors, student ambassadors receive a partial tuition scholarship. Robin notes, “It is great job experience!”

JANUARY 2014

According to Robin, it can also be a great romantic experience! “One of my early student ambassadors was Heidi. I got to know her parents when they visited the campus. Sadly, Heidi’s mother, Karen, passed away from cancer. She was a wonderful person. I was blessed to know her.”

When Heidi became engaged and began planning her wedding, Robin stepped in to help. In the process Robin fell in love with Heidi’s dad, Don. “I met the love of my life at age 40, and it wouldn’t have happened without my job at Crowder.”

The Kiers have been blissfully married for 10 years and share four children – Robin and Don each brought a son and a daughter to their newly formed family.

The Kiers also delight in spoiling four grandchildren.

Robin moved to the Crowder College site in Cassville in 2000. After 14 years she said, “I learn something new every day. Working at an off-campus site, you have to know a little bit about everything.

I am blessed with a wonderful team of co-workers. If I didn’t have them, I couldn’t do my job. We are all cross-trained. We back up each other. None of us is territorial.

We are here for the students, not for us.

Our Crowder Cassville Philosophy is, ‘Building a civil serving, literate community of responsible citizens.’ Crowder Cassville employees focus on that, and we do it as a team.”

Robin and her student ambassadors (she utilizes the services of two at the Cassville site) visit college fairs and local high schools to recruit prospective students.

“I spend a lot of time talking with them. I want to make sure Crowder is a good fit.

I am honest to a fault. Crowder isn’t for everyone, and I tell them that upfront. I also try to determine which campus fits best for

each student. Some kids want to get away from home, but not too far. The dorms at our Neosho campus are perfect for them.

Others, however, want to stay at home for jobs and other reasons, making the Cassville campus an ideal fit.”

Students can complete associates degrees in general studies, psychology, education, nursing and business at the Cassville campus, and thanks to a recently formed consortium with Missouri State University, they can also complete fouryear degrees in education and business.

Although the Neosho and the Cassville campuses offer different opportunities to meet different students’ needs Robin notes, “Either way, Crowder is a good place to start. It is an easier transition from a small high school to the college scene. We have small classes, and the staff is dedicated to student success.”

Robin and the Crowder Cassville team take special pride in the growing number of first generation college students at their site. The Fall 2013 roster of 551 students at Crowder Cassville included 292 who declared themselves first generation college students. Robin beams, “That’s 53%! Working with families that have never had a member go to college is an enjoyable part of my job. Walking them through the process and being there for them means a lot. It is especially gratifying to see them succeed.”

The lion’s share of Robin’s job begins after a student enrolls at Crowder Cassville.

According to the job description she authored for herself, “A student services coordinator tends to every need a student possibly could have.” One of her most daunting tasks is advisement. “It is the biggest part of my job.

Enrollment days are particularly chaotic, as we work through scheduling, transfers and degree path checks.”

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 31

Robin and the other Crowder College Cassville team members expanded their efforts in the area of retention in the past year. “We have to make sure we keep the students who begin their education with us, providing what they need to be successful. Teachers inform me if a student is struggling with attendance, academics or time management. I contact the student, and we work out a solution together. Some students call me the next best thing to their mother! I am not beyond seeing someone hanging out in the lobby and saying, ‘Aren’t you supposed to be in class?’”

Robin said, “Sometimes all students need is a cheerleader.” Happy to provide the needed encouragement, Robin is even happier to report several success stories from her years of service. “One of my former student ambassadors got a job with the Secret Service. They flew down to interview me several times during the process. That was intense!

I also maintain contact with a former student who works for the Department of Defense in Washington, D.C. I am so proud of all of them, but I am most proud of the students who juggle families and full-time jobs, who sacrifice to return to school and make better lives for themselves and their families. That’s the best part.”

32 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Interested in returning to college via Crowder Cassville?

Call the ambassador! Robin Kier can be reached at 417-847-1706 or via email: robinkier@crowder.edu. Please also visit the Crowder Cassville website, www.crowder.edu/locations/cassville for information on degree opportunities, enrollment, financial aid and more.

Non-traditional students face unique challenges, the greatest of which, perhaps, is fear. Robin reflects, “A few years back a non-traditional student contacted me.

She was interested in returning to college to become a registered nurse. She had a husband and small children. She made three appointments with me. She couldn’t make it out of the parking lot for the first two. She felt like she was being selfish by pursuing an education, when the reality was just the opposite. She was scared to death to return, but when she finally made it through my office door, we talked about her fears and faced them together. She completed our nursing program. Today, she is a very successful RN. I am very proud of her. Very proud.”

My dear friend Courtney Murphy is another non-traditional Crowder Cassville student who discovered success in Robin Kier’s encouraging light. A busy wife and mother, Courtney made the difficult decision to return to college last spring to pursue a degree in nursing. “I was very scared to go

back to school, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made. It is challenging to devote equal portions of time to everything going on in my life – making sure I give enough time to my kids and their activities, while keeping up with my studies and homework. Finding balance is the most difficult challenge, but I want my kids to see me graduate. I also want them to see how hard it is to accomplish at my age. Hopefully they’ll pursue their degrees right after high school.”

Courtney serves as one of Robin Kier’s two student ambassadors at the Cassville site. “I attend college fairs with Robin and talk to students about the opportunities available at Crowder Cassville. I love connecting with the community and sharing my story,” Courtney said.

Courtney gives a large measure of the credit for her success story to Robin, her friend and mentor. “Robin is amazing. She is my ground. When I’m having a bad day, when I’ve done horrible on an assignment, or when I’ve achieved a success, I run to her. She puts me in my place if I need it, and she lifts me up when I feel like I can’t do it anymore. She makes sure she is right there for me.”

After visiting with Robin, I think I’ve discovered the key to her success. She doesn’t consider her role as student services coordinator a job. “I absolutely feel that I have a ministry here. I find immense satisfaction in helping people to better their lives.”

If Adlai Stevenson had the privilege of knowing Robin Kier, there is no doubt he would see within her an ambassador, an Eleanor Roosevelt. Robin wastes no time cursing the darkness. Instead, she brings light into it. My husband and I have certainly been warmed by her glow in our lives. As I prepared to leave the homey atmosphere and positive energy of Robin’s office, she aimed a parting ray of her special light in my direction. “Tell Brandon I’m proud of him.”

JANUARY 2014

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 33

GROW

ROAST

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LAYNE SLEETH

GRIND

SERVE Coffee is kind of a big deal to me

(read: I held my wedding reception in a coffee shop).

Growing up, I had always sipped on my parents’ morning Folgers, but then local coffee came to me by way of my first college job as a barista at Mocha Jo’s Coffee Cafe in Monett.

Immediately, I could taste the difference between the locally roasted, freshly ground beans and the stuff in the red plastic container. It was during my two years at Mocha Jo’s and a brief time at a locally-owned coffee shop in Springfield, that I came to appreciate coffee community and began to realize the plethora of ways that coffee brings people together.

34 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

Layne is a senior majoring in Communications at University of Arkansas. When she isn’t making coffees for the community of Fayetteville, Layne enjoys reading, creating and exploring nature with her husband, Brian, and pup, Luna. They reside with their two self-important cats, Meeko and Cora.

A LATTE is complex in chemistry, but is simply a 12-ounce drink consisting of two shots of Ozark Copper espresso combined with steamed milk. Our house latte is called an Onyx Delight, which is a latte plus a splash of vanilla, a squeeze of honey, and a dash of cinnamon.

1. Prepare your cup with vanilla, honey and cinnamon.

2. Portion the amount of milk you will need to steam into a steaming pitcher, set aside

As I began to learn more about coffee culture, I discovered that there is a national scale of coffee community that upholds coffee as an artisanal craft and culinary experience. This ideology is known as third wave coffee.

Happily, this coffee movement has come to the Ozarks in the form of Onyx Coffee Lab, where I now make cappuccinos for the community.

The Onyx coffee shops and roastery are owned by Jon and Andrea Allen, with the home base in Springdale, Ark., and another location in Fayetteville, Ark. One of the many commendable aspects of third wave coffee is that it touts the importance of local and independent business.

These cafés are becoming increasingly familiar across the U.S., serving as economic, cultural, and community hot spots, and comparably, this growth has shifted coffee enthusiasts’ focus to ethically produced, high quality coffee.

With these goals in mind, Onyx Coffee Lab is enabling the JANUARY 2014

3. Grind and weigh espresso into portafilter basket, where water will pass through the espresso.

4. “Tamp and polish” espresso puck -- a fancy way of saying “tightly compress the espresso into the basket.”

5. Insert portafilter into espresso tap and pull the shot between 20 and 30 seconds.

6. While shot is pulling, steam milk to around 155° Fahrenheit.

7. Mix espresso with honey blend, pour in milk.

8. Sip, sip, enjoy.

Ozarks to join in the national conversation about coffee.

But what is “third wave coffee”? Essentially, third wave coffee is a relatively new international movement, in which growers, roasters, and cafés are collaborating to produce the highest quality coffee. The first wave of coffee came into being with Folger’s

debut in the late 1800s, and the second wave of coffee emerged out of the 60s and 70s with the introduction of the mass-produced, mega café-- Starbucks. Today, the goal of third wave is to educate and excite coffee consumers.

Greater attention is being paid to all stages of production, from seed to cup. The main

traits that mark this specialty coffee movement include several working parts: direct trade relationships between independent coffee farmers and sourcers, roasting the coffee beans lighter to display the widely varied flavor profiles, latte art, and finally, precision in brewing as well as manual brewing methods.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 35

The process all begins with coffee farmers across Latin and South America, Africa, India and Indonesia. Multiple certifications are available for coffee growers if they have access to the right resources, but, oftentimes, they simply don’t. Direct trade focuses on developing relationships with coffee farmers and buying straight from the growers, ensuring that they receive fair pay for their hard work.

Since the farmers aren’t being undercut by a middleman buyer, they are then able to invest in better equipment, pay better wages to their workers, and put money back into their own economy.

In the first stages of production, the farmers pick and process the ripe coffee cherries.

Then the green coffee beans are sold to specialty roasters.

Traditionally, coffee has been roasted dark, but the trend is THIRD WAVE COFFEE IS A RELATIVELY NEW INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENT, IN WHICH GROWERS, ROASTERS, AND CAFÉS ARE COLLABORATING TO PRODUCE THE HIGHEST QUALITY COFFEE.

moving toward lighter roasting.

Light roasting leaves more of the natural flavor notes in the beans, not to mention most of the original caffeine content.

After the beans are roasted and bagged, they are ready to go to cafés and be served.

True to their name, Onyx Coffee Lab is dedicated to combining the exact science and art of coffee, while maintaining transparency throughout the process. Onyx’s owner, Jon, recently became a Licensed Q Grader. With just 36 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

over 1,000 certified Q Graders worldwide, the Q Grader certification is a professional accreditation given upon successful completion of a rigorous three-day exam over green coffee bean grading, roast identification, cupping and sensory triangulation.

On Saturdays, Jon holds an educational cupping on JANUARY 2014

site for the public to taste different coffees, and topics vary from the flavor notes of Onyx offerings to roasting and home brewing. The layout of both “labs” allows customers to see all steps of the brewing process. The open countertops, glass beakers and shiny equipment add to the lab ambiance. At the Springdale JANUARY 2014

lab, the small batch roaster, a Diedrich model, sits behind a handmade copper bar where customers sit and chat at public cuppings or observe Onyx’s roaster, Mark, while he works his magic. Much like wine tasting, detailed flavor notes such as spiced wine, milk chocolate, and citrus appear on labels of Onyx’s retail bags.

Upon entering the Fayetteville lab, perhaps the first thing that you will notice are two large, glass towers with iced water slowly dripping onto a bed of coffee grounds and traveling down a spiraling glass tube into a holding beaker. This is the Japanese cold brew system that Onyx uses called CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 37

Kyoto style cold brew. At the ordering counter, a friendly barista stands at an iPad register system, and the shiny Modbar espresso machine is mounted into a sleek, locally made oak bar. Modbar is a brand new, American made espresso machine technology that features only espresso taps and steam wands above counter, and below the counter is where the internal “guts” of the machine live. Further down the bar, the manual brew bar station is where you can grab a regular cup of Onyx’s Sugar Skull house blend, or watch and interact with a barista as they manually brew your personalized cup.

Onyx collaborates with local businesses, restaurants, bakeries, and artists, doing their part to keep area businesses alive and well here in the Ozarks. On a slightly larger scale, Jon, Andrea, and staff are boosting regional coffee 38 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

shop comradery by having hosted two area latte art competitions in 2013, in which cafés from as far as Tulsa competed. In October 2013, Andrea represented Onyx in

the Big Central Regional Barista Competition in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her signature drink “Southern Hospitality.”

2014 is going to be another exciting year full of coffee and

hospitality. If you happen to be in the Northwest Arkansas Area, take a quick jaunt on over to one of Onyx’s two locations and experience our take on coffee community.

JANUARY 2014

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Connection’s Cutest Pet

PET CONTEST WINNER If you think your furry or feathered friend is the cutest in the area, let us know!

We invite you to share a photo of your pet to be featured in Connection’s very own Connection’s Cutest Pet contest.

Email your pet’s photo to connection@monett-times.com. Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. Remember to include your pet’s name, city you reside in and your contact information.

We are well known for supplying the very best representation of breeds, for our superior health care program and for ensuring all of our pets are from reputable and licensed breeders.

Peaches is a two-year old cat owned by Joe and Kathy Myers, of Mt Vernon.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 39

WINTER birdwatching

BY SHERRY TUCKER

BIRDWATCHING DURING THE LONG WINTER MONTHS can be very entertaining. Against the dull background of the winter landscape, the striking colors and patterns of busy songbirds are a pleasant sight. Birds that we can commonly entertain include; cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches, snowbirds, tufted titmouse, woodpeckers and finches. Of course, there are always a bounty of sparrows and blackbirds. Helping them get through a tough winter by offering them feed is a sure way to entice them to make a home in your backyard.

Feeding the masses

Hanging birdfeeders, and routinely throwing bird feed across the ground, will attract birds into your yard.

Eventually, many birds will come again and again. But, what is the best way to feed a large variety of birds? Local Connection reader, Chris Sharpsteen, suggests, “Most all birds love the black oil sunflower seeds. It’s the cheapest way to feed birds, cause you can buy it in 50 lb., bags at any feedstore.”

If you are lucky to have a returning cote of doves come to visit, another local reader, Donna Bowman, shared, “Doves eat on the ground, not from feeders. We get a 50 lb. bag of hen scratch from the feedstore to throw on the ground for the doves. Other birds will eat it, too.”

Birds do enjoy a variety. Mixed birdseed is a good choice, especially for a few birds that may not prefer sunflower seeds, such as mockingbirds. Alice Leverich, of rural Exeter, said, “Chop up an apple, or other fruit, and hang it up in the tree. Most birds like fruit.”

40 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

In the cold of winter, birds need a lot of food to keep their bodies warm. Alice talked about the importance of fat in their diets, “The birds really need fat. They will all eat suet, and you can either buy suet feeders, or make your own. I have used recipes that use ingredients such as bacon grease, peanut butter, cornmeal, oatmeal and birdseed. Mix it together till thick and put it in a mesh onion bag, and hang it in the tree. The birds love it.”

Don’t forget to water

When temperatures dip below freezing, birds may have a hard time finding water to drink. Keeping a small amount of water in shallow pie tins held down with a weight, or in a weather-proof birdbath is a good thing.

If you can’t beat them... feed them

Have trouble with squirrels? Maybe the best tactic is just to feed them, too.

Donna, and husband Ray, enjoy watching the squirrels, “They have their own feeders, and they love the black oil sunflower seeds, too.”

Donna has several squirrel feeding boxes, positioned about six feet up the tree, that are covered by a lid that the squirrels learn to open and eat out of. Of course, they also love a variety of our local nuts, so, having a nut tree in the yard is an automatic squirrel feast! Although feeding them may not keep them from completely leaving the birdfeeders alone, it will help keep them busy.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 41

CARDIAC Kids program growing to keep kids heart healthy

By Nancy Ridgley

CARDIAC (Coronary Artery Risk Detection in Area Children) Kids is a screening program that helps identify children who are at risk for heart disease and diabetes. Cox Monett started the program in 2003, screening 158 children in the Monett fifth grade. In the 2013/2014 school year we will screen almost 1,000 children in 13 area local schools.

So, why do we screen fifth-grade students? The fifth grade level is old enough to begin making decisions about nutrition and exercise and young enough to still influence their patterns of behavior before they turn into hard habits.

Using screenings for blood glucose and cholesterol not only offer insights into health patterns that can head off future health problems for the children, but it also frequently reveals warning signals that are also present in parents.

This fall semester we screened children in seven schools, Monett, St. Lawrence, Sarcoxie, Pierce City, Exeter, Verona and Nixa. We were able to reach 527 children in these seven schools.

CARDIAC Kids will be in Aurora, Mt.

Vernon, Purdy, Miller, Shell Knob and Marionville for the spring semester.

Each elementary School is the site for an assembly to teach fifth-grade students how to keep a healthy heart. Children learn the importance of staying active, eating right and avoiding tobacco products.

Wellness educator, Lauren Holland, leads the interaction with the boys and girls asking them to jump rope, while others count their steps with a pedometer. Lauren challenges the children to obtain 60 minutes of activity AT LEAST five days perweek. The children are also encouraged to eat more fruits and vegetables, and consume less sugary drinks and fewer chips, cakes and fried foods.

As part of the program, students are

invited back two days later to have their blood tested for high cholesterol. We found that 25 percent of the children who participated in the cholesterol screen this fall, had levels outside of the healthy range.

We completed a biometrics assessment for height, weight, BMI (body mass index), blood pressure and a visual screen for Type 2 diabetes. We found that 50 percent of the 527 students screened were at risk for becoming overweight or already overweight.

Parents are then invited to a CARDIAC Fun night with their children to also learn more about healthy cooking and activity.

Because of the generous funding we receive from Children’s Miracle Network we are able to create awareness for children and their parents in how to keep a healthy heart. The CARDIAC Kids program helps parents get an early start in teaching their children good habits that they can carry through a lifetime.

For more information about the CARDIAC Kids program, please call the Cox Monett Wellness Center at 236-2596.

Nancy Ridgley, RD, LD, CDE, is a registered and licensed dietitian, certified diabetes educator, a Mad Dogg-certified spinning instructor and director of community wellness at Cox Monett Hospital. She also holds certifications in adult weight management and childhood and adolescent weight management. The mother of three enjoys spinning, reading, Mizzou football, travel, spending time with her children and extended family and having coffee with friends. For more information about wellness and living a healthy lifestyle, check out Cox Monett Hospital’s wellness blog at www.realwellnessforrealpeople.blogspot.com.

42 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

Do you have a recipe you’d like to share?

Send it to Darlene Wierman at darlene@cassville-democrat.com

Oven Beef Stew 2 lbs. beef stew meat 4 tbsp. oil 1/2 cup flour 5 carrots, diced 3 medium-sized potatoes 1 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper 1 pkg. onion soup mix 1-1/2 cup water 1 large can of tomatoes Heat oven to 350˚. Roll the meat in flour and brown it in oil. Add remaining ingredients. Place in baking pot and cover with a lid.

Bake 2 hours.

recipe box FROM THE

Easy Swiss Steak 1-1/2 lbs. round steak, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 envelope dry onion soup mix.

1 bag baby carrots 1 8-oz. can tomato sauce 1 can cream of mushroom soup 3/4 cup water Pour water and carrots in bottom of greased slow-cooker.

Top with steak. Mix tomato sauce, onion soup mix and cream of mushroom soup and pour over the meat. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.

RECIPES

COLLECTED FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Hawaiian Chicken 4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 8-oz. can crushed pineapple 1 16-oz. bottle barbecue sauce 4 to 6 cups rice, cooked Place chicken in a greased slow cooker. Combine pineapple and barbecue sauce; pour over meat.

Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low 6 to 8 hours. Serve over rice.

Sweet and Sour Beef 2 lbs. beef stew meat, cubed 4-6 cups hot cooked rice 1 cup shredded carrots 1 bottle sweet-n-sour sauce Combine all ingredients and pour into a greased Crockpot. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours. Serve over hot cooked rice.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 43

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Who says men can’t quilt?

John McCallister’s quality quilting is the envy of every grandma

BY AMANDA L . REESE

L

OCAL LADIES AND QUILTERS rave about the beauty and intrinsic detail of, 90-year-old, John McCallister’s quilts. Barry County Museum exhibited his eye-catching workmanship several different times throughout this last year.

John is “one of the few male quilters in the area,” according to the staff of the Barry County Museum. He is referred to as 90 years young and “quite accomplished” in his artwork.

“Every month we do a quilt display,” says Amber Wilson, the Display Coordinator at Barry County Museum. “John’s quilts were displayed in March, May and August of this last year. In March, Butterflies was on exhibit, in May, Grandmother’s Flower Garden, and in August, a Sun Bonnet Sue variation. John’s favorite pattern is Grandmother’s Flower Garden.”

“His quilts are absolutely beautiful,” says Ruby Reese, of Cassville, a volunteer at the museum. “Some of his edging is very difficult to do and get right; he does unbelievable work.”

John’s quilt “Sunbonnet girls” successfully displays his craftsmanship with hand-stitched embroidery and a bordering technique called Prairie Points. To create a Prairie Point border, John folds material into triangles and hand sews each triangle into the quilt’s seam.

John began quilting after serving in the Air Force during World War II. Both of John’s parents were quilters. The family had two sewing machines, and John recalls his dad sitting down to quilt “as soon” he came home from work, according to Barry County Museum staff.

JANUARY 2014

“I learned from my dear old mama,” says John. “She loved to quilt, and my dad loved to quilt too.”

Although he is very talented and respected for his attention to detail, John remains humble and says that he is “nothing special.” He said,“A lot of ladies know all of the stitches and stuff. I don’t know all of that; I just get in there and do it.”

John’s ability to select complementing colors on his own is remarkable, according to Schrediah Mahurin, Historian at Barry County Museum. He drives himself to Springfield to go fabric shopping and hand picks the right material for each quilt.

“John does embroidery, appliqué, and pieced block on his quilts,” says Schrediah.

“He is always bringing in newly finished quilts or patterns to show us.”

In addition to displaying his quilts, John also shares his workmanship with family members. John has made quilts for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, according to Barry County Museum staff.

Apart from his inherent quilting ability, John gardens, cooks, cans and fishes as well.

“John grows all kinds of berries,” says Amber. “He makes an awesome seedless blackberry cobbler. I asked him how he gets it seedless; he said, ‘I boil the blackberries and take all the seeds out myself.’”

John is an inspiration that life can be enjoyable, and people can do things they love at any age.

“In the winter time, I really enjoy quilting,” said John. “When it is a cold day, I like to work on one.” He laughs, “Here I am 90 years old and still quilting.”

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 47

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DIRT ROADS AND RAILROADS STORY BY SHERRY TUCKER

I SAW PRETTY BOY

O 50 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

OUR MODERN TIMES AND TECHNOLOGY have created a society that functions very differently than the previous generations.

To step back in history, even just 80 years, it takes understanding not only the historical events of the time, but an appreciation for the mindset of people who lived in that era. Even beyond that, imagining what the life and times were like to different ages of people, or folks with varying lifestyles.

Can you imagine life in the time of gangsters? What life was like before instant information, when information was passed only through by newspaper, radio and word of mouth? In our recent times, we can relate to what fear and shock in society feels like because of our experience with 9/11. Similarly, living during the 1930s was a treacherous time, filled with unknowns and complicated by financial hardships trickled down by the depression and the dust bowl.

These hard times led some folks, primarily young men, to turn to a life of crime. Pretty Boy Floyd was just a farmer’s son who was raised in Oklahoma. In tough times, he resorted to petty crimes that, after jail-time and more robberies, turned him into a hardened criminal. After the capture of John Dillinger, Pretty Boy Floyd became Public Enemy No. 1, as listed by the FBI. He was charged with robberies from Colorado, Oklahoma, Missouri though Ohio, as well as murder.

But, life as a gangster, is not without its glamour. Citizens in Oklahoma considered him a “Robin Hood” of sorts, because when robbing banks, Floyd would destroy mortgage

documents. In a time of original documents and no digital copies, this meant release from debt. Citizens would offer Pretty Boy Floyd refuge.

With a picture of a gangster’s life, can it be imagined what it was like living here locally, in the Ozarks? Imagine yourself as a young boy in 1933, riding your bike through Monett. A strange car eases down the street with two or three men that look unfamiliar, look tough. You had read about the gangsters in Chicago and Kansas City, and heard the old men talk about the bank robberies and seen the wanted posters hanging in the Post Office. Maybe your school teacher and your mother had recently lectured you about not talking to strangers, and you also noticed that businesses in town were installing new locks on their doors. Could that man driving be Pretty Boy Floyd? You feel a little scared, but it’s a little exciting, too.

The Monett Times ran articles about the string of crimes and robberies that were prevalent during these uneasy times. Included were frequent articles about, the sometimes very amusing, alleged sitings of Pretty Boy Floyd. Floyd was suspect in a bank robbery in Ash Grove on January 12, 1933. The headline and article of The Monett Times reads:

Thought Dash of Pretty Boy and Pals Might Be Through Monett Local Officers Watch Highway Intersection For Two Hours Following An Alarm Spread From Ash Grove JANUARY 2014

FLOYD STARTED THIS WAY

Report That The Oklahoma Bandit Was in Springfield Wednesday Lends Credence to Story He Aided in Ash Grove Robbery

“Pretty Boy” Floyd may have been within a few miles of Monett yesterday afternoon.

The robbery of the Ash Grove Bank in which the notorious Oklahoma bandit is thought to be implicated was brought close to home about 4:15 o’clock when police received a telephone call from a state patrolman at Mount Vernon asking them to guard the junctions of Highways 37 and 60 here.

The robbery of the Ash Grove bank was at noon Thursday. A man entered and asked J. H. Perryman, cashier, to change a five dollar bill. When the cashier turned to get the change the man drew a revolver and halted him. Then a second man entered and assumed the job of guarding the cashier while the first man ran behind the counter and pulled out a cloth bag and began scooping cash into it.

It was then the man who is believed to be Pretty Boy entered. A heavy-set, dark man, wearing a fleece-lined coat, he stepped up to Mr. Perryman and said, “I’m Pretty Boy Floyd.” The only other person in the bank at the time the robbery started was Mrs. Nora Anglum, Perryman’s sister. A customer entered while the robbery was in progress, and was forced to join Mr. Perryman and Mrs. Anglum when they were commanded to lie on the floor.

JANUARY 2014

January 14, 1933, the front page headline of The Monett Times read:

Rumors Insist That Pretty Boy Floyd Has Been Stopping Here Buys Meals, Shaves, Shines, Gasoline and Other Things in Monett - And He Wears His Bullet Proof Vest

KEEPS MOTOR RUNNING But Police Officers Won’t Take Stories Seriously – Next Time You See Him Make Him Show You His Tattooed Arm – If The Arm Isn’t Tattooed It Won’t Be Floyd – So There’s No Need To Be Afraid

Rumors concerning Pretty Boy Floyd were flying thick and fast in Monett Saturday.

According to the stories the notorious bandit CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 51

must be addicted with an enormous appetite for he is credited with having eaten supper in no less than a dozen places here last night.

The reports vary. Proprietors of one restaurant where he was said to have had supper stated they did not believe any of their customers had been Floyd, but it was told excitedly he went into a lunch-room farther up

bullet-proof vest, prominently displayed.

It is said Floyd drew up to the barber shop in a high-priced car, and accompanied by a woman Floyd kept the engine running, the woman alighted and went into the barber shop for a shoe shine. She returned to the car, Floyd came into the shop and had his shoes shined.

Then he returned to the car, the woman re-

hair, blue eyes and is fair complexioned. His eyebrows meet and he has a scar on the left side of his forehead.

So, unless the nocturnal visitor at Monett Cafes, filling stations, garages and barber shops has all these marks and characteristics, police say they’re not going to arrest Pretty Boy Floyd. But the rumors keep going on, just as thick and fast.

Through the months, the headlines continued through the Spring and Summer of 1933:

IT WAS FLOYD, BUT DIDN’T NOTICE THE COLOR OF HIS HAIR So “Pretty Boy” Isn’t Playing Fair with Us At All

CRIME, CRIME, CRIME the street several nights ago.

At that place the owners told of a visitor who came into the lunch-room about 7:30 O’clock one evening. They described him as being heavy set, fair complexioned, with a full face and wearing a white hat and a gray raincoat. The cafe was deserted at the time.

The man asked for a plate lunch and on being served ate so slowly and with no attempts at conversation that the owners began to get nervous, they said. Finally, two customers entered and the man eft at once, possibly 45 minutes after coming in.

And the proprietors said that immediately on leaving they turned to one another and declared simultaneously, “That was Pretty Boy Floyd.” They said they were struck with the resemblance of their customer to the picture of Floyd contained in a recent issue of Capper’s Weekly.

It was about this same time, too, the rumors go, that a barber in a Monett shop drew for his customer a man answering Floyd’s description. Furthermore, the man wore a 52 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

entered the shop for a haircut and returned to the car while Floyd went in for a haircut.

One cafe proprietor believes one of his after-midnight visitors was Pretty Boy. He says several days ago a car drove up to the curb. There were two passengers; one came into the cafe and ordered sandwiches while the other remained outside, supposedly on guard as he kept the motor running. A customer in the cafe at the time is said to insist that the man was the bank bandit.

And, so the stories go – still others relating that Floyd with three bodyguards and a regular aresenal in the rear of their car stopped long enough to have the tank filled with gasoline and then shot out of town.

Police are placing no credence in the reports. And they say that if anyone wants to attempt a positive identification of the Oklahoma bank robber and murderer they can snatch back the sleeve from his right forearm and discover a picture of a Red Cross girl tattooed there. Also, they say, he weighs 180 pounds, is 5 feet 9 inches tall, has black

Verona Arms to Teeth to Greet Bank Bandits That Didn’t Come

Underworld’s Dares Arouse The Nation To A War On Crime Amidst the glamour and amplification of the events caused by gangster activity and robberies, there was real fear. Isolated rural towns had to question if they were equipped to handle an abrupt gangster hold-up. This uneasy time grew to an end as gangsters were caught, and economic times got better. So, did you see Pretty Boy Floyd?

JANUARY 2014

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Good, clean fun.

With our Soft Touch and Touch Free Automatic car wash, you will be sparkling clean and ready for fun in no time.

Happy Hour Monday – Friday 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

417-846-3711 1060 Old Exeter Rd. • Cassville • Hwy. 76/112 • Cassville

Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Dine in or carry out!

Happy New Year!

Visit the place where time slows down

• Deli sandwiches • Home-cooked meals • Fresh-baked desserts • Bulk Amish spices • Cast iron cookware

THE JANE STORE A unique Ozarks experience Monday - Friday 6 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

2980 Rains Rd. • Jane, Mo.

417-226-1234

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 53

Melissa Stockton, an Exeter native, recently visited Amsterdam. Melissa travels extensively throughout Europe while working in Germany for the U.S. Government.

Jo Anne Ellis, of Cassville, holds a copy of Connection as ahe stands with her daughter, Laura Johnson during a trip around Auckland Bay. The yacht belonging to the family of her sister, Sue Atkins, who now lives in Auckland, New Zealand. The girls recently celebrated October birthdays with a road trip around the north island of New Zealand.

Marissa Tucker, of Cassville, poses with Connection at Mammoth Cave National Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky, in November. Marissa traveled there with parents, Carroll and Tammy Tucker, to receive her American FFA Degree at the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.

54 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

The Gibbons family brought a copy of Connection on their 9th annual New York City trip. Pictured above are Rick Gibbons, Michelle Denney, Rene’ Jager and Dorothy Gibbons.

JANUARY 2014

my C O N N E C T I O N “My Connection” photos should be e-mailed to connection@monett-times.com. Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. A short explanation of who is in the photo and where the photo was taken should also be included.

Edna Haynes and Kim and Mike Roller spent Thanksgiving with daughter, Addy Roller, in North Pole, Alaska.

Larry and Patti Daniels, of Cassville, enjoyed a ski trip with their family, Simon, Scott and Adrain Taliaferro, of Steamboat Springs, Colo., in December. While in Steamboat Springs, the group met up with Mike and Lisa Schlichtman, formerly of Cassville, at Carl’s Tavern in Steamboat Springs, Colo.

Jim Larkin, of Pierce City, poses in front of the statue of the great labor leader of James Larkin in Dublin during his recent trip to Ireland.

All Smiles Dental Care attended the 2013 ADA Conference in New Orleans, La., on Oct. 29 through Nov. 2. Pictured above are, Dr. Kean, Adria Deditius, Josh Hopper, Shauna Hurst, Ilene Mann, Kathy Crawford, Barbara Mullinix, Nanci Tolich, Kristan Black, Abbey Hayes, Emme Brattin, Debbie Parrigon, LouEllen Honeycutt and Dr. Honeycutt.

JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 55

DineOUT Daddy Joe’s Catfish Hole 600 Dairy Street Monett 417-635-1112 Monday - Thursday • 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays • 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sundays • 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Offering U.S. Farm-raised catfish, Daddy Joe’s Catfish Hole is located at 600 Dairy Street, Suite H in Monett. Come by and try one of our signature catfish sandwiches, a hand-breaded filet with mayo, dill pickles on a sourdough hoagie, served with our almost famous coleslaw. Other menu items include dinner baskets, sandwich baskets and family pack baskets of chicken, fish and or shrimp. Side items vary from pickled tomato relish, onion rings, french fries, fried okra, fried green tomatoes, fried green beans, coleslaw and hush puppies. Daily lunch specials prepared to suit your appetite from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Eat in or carry-out orders are available.

If you’re searching for authentic Mexican cuisine, Guanajuato in Verona is the restaurant for you. The hidden gem of a restaurant offers a large menu with 37 different daily lunch specials offered from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Choices include combinations of enchiladas, tacos and burritos as well as fajitas, quesadillas and egg rancheros. For dinner, Guanajuato features a Tex-Mex plate, chimichanga de camaron and the Speedy Gonzalez, a large flour tortilla burrito filled with ground beef, rice, beans, yellow and white cheddar cheese and topped with delicious chorizo sauce.

And to finish off any meal, there are mouth-watering sopapillas served with strawberries, honey or ice cream.

Guanajuato Restaurante 180 W. Third Street Verona 417-498-6487 Monday - Thursday • 11 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Fridays • 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturdays • 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Sundays • 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Las Palmas Cantina & Restaurante 530 E. Church Street Aurora 417-678-0740 Call for business hours

For classic Mexican dishes, and a Margarita recipe voted “The Best in Northwest Arkansas,” visit Las Palmas Cantina & Restaurante, where “dining is always a fiesta,” and catering is available. The large menu offers exciting choices, including savory appetizers from Nachos to Besitos del Diablo (Jalapeño poppers with shrimp filling), house specialties such as Chicken Laredo and Carne Asada, a large selection of seafood delicacies and many variations of traditional enchiladas, tacos and fajitas. Visit other locations: Rogers, Arkansas: 200 S. Poplar Street, 479-986-0622.

Tontitown, Arkansas: 1115 Herre de Tonti E. Blvd., 479-306-4068 Bentonville, Arkansas: 301 N. Walton Blvd., 479-824-4022 www.laspalmasmexicanfood.com

ACAMBARO

BLACKBIRD BAR AND GRILL

EBEN EZER RESTAURANTE

Mon-Thu 11am-9pm and Fri-Sun 6am-10pm

Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun closed

Tues-Sun 11am-9pm

BAYOU

BUMPERS BAR AND GRILL

MOCHA JO’S

Mon-Thu 11am-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm Sports bar: Fri-Sat until 1am

Tue-Wed 3pm-12am, Thu-Sat 3pm-1am

Mon, Tue, Thu 8am-8pm, Wed 8am-3pm, Fri 8am-10pm , Sat 9am-3pm

REYES MEXICAN RESTAURANT

RICHARD’S HAWGWILD BBQ

UTOPIAN BEAN

Sun-Sat 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Call for hours

Tue-Sat 7:30am-8pm

505 Plaza Drive, MONETT 417-354-8408

864 US Hwy 60 MONETT

429 W. CHURCH ST., AURORA 417-678-1269

56 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

1321 S. Elliott Ave., AURORA 417-678-2100

108 3rd St., MONETT 417-235-5667

DOWNTOWN AURORA 417-678-4294

212 Broadway, MONETT 417-393-8879

404 Broadway, MONETT 417-635-1107

200 Washington St., PURDY 417-442-3014 JANUARY 2014

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Thank you for subscribing to Connection. Your subscription will expire next month. If you wish to continue receiving Connection by mail, please send in your check with the accompanying subscription request.

We appreciate your support of Connection, and we hope you look forward to receiving and reading the magazine each month. If you have any suggestions or feedback you would like to share, please don’t hesitate to contact me at editor@monett-times.com.

Sincerely,

Connection magazine will continue to be offered free to anyone in our distribution area.

Lisa Schlichtman Connection editor

Connection magazine will continue to be offered free to anyone in our distribution area.

Please fill out the attached subscription form. Send the form along with a check payable to The Monett Times, a money order for $40 or your credit card information to P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708. or P.O. Box 486, Cassville, MO 65625

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Please fi form. Se payable for $40 o P.O. Box

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 53 57

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P.O. B

Toll Fre

Community

CONNECTION THE RELAY FOR LIFE SURVIVOR DINNER WAS HELD IN MONETT ON SEPTEMBER 14.

1. Jeremiah Farmer and Nikki Shaner.

2. Bob and Clara Nichols.

3. Devena Johnson, Anastacia Velasquez and Mark Johnson.

1

2

4. David and Elaine Wallace and grandson Mason Schallert.

5. Jim and Linda Holloway.

6. Joe and Sue Barnes.

7. Mary Beth Lamastus and Phyllis Long.

8. Norma Strouse and Pat Belknap.

9. Ralph and Rita Schallert.

10. Ruth Cooper and Barbara and Larry McLeod.

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9 JANUARY 2014

10 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 59

Community

CONNECTION OZARKS FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA POPS IN THE PARK CONCERT, HELD NOVEMBER 3 AT THE MONETT CITY PARK CASINO. 1. Elizabeth and Mareena Snarey.

2. Eudene Purphy and Patty Johnson.

3. Jimmie and Cheri St. Clair.

1

2

4. Cristin Jones, McKenzie Switzer, Emilee Jones, Jessica Buck, Kristen Buck, Sarah Thomas and Rebekah Jones.

5. Elizabeth Willson, Sarah Willson and John Willson.

6. Peggy Dial and John Wilson.

7. Sue Negre, Bonnie Cannon and W.R. “Fritz” Fritzinger 8. Mary Whitlock and Nancy Beckwith.

9. Alice Evatt, Roberta Bristow and Neva Owens.

10. Rita and Wade Nowell.

11. Dixie Breon and Theresa Borgmann.

12. Judy Hudson and Margaret Prim.

5

9 60 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

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12 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 61

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ST. Lawrence Catholic School St. Lawrence School is committed to teaching values for a lifetime and is dedicated to helping students reach their highest potential. The many benefits of a St. Lawrence education help students develop the foundation they need for success in life.

Spiritual and Moral Values Students at St. Lawrence have the opportunity to nurture spiritual and moral values. The Gospel message is taught in our classrooms every day. Students of all faiths are welcome.

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Sunday 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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Academics St. Lawrence School challenges students to reach their highest potential with students consistently scoring in the top 1/3 on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. The school is accredited through the Missouri Nonpublic School Accrediting Association.

Community Service St. Lawrence School exemplifies the importance of living the message of the Gospel by helping others. All of our students participate in community service projects.

Beyond St. Lawrence St. Lawrence students continue to strive for academic excellence beyond their years at St. Lawrence. Over that last ten years, over 20% of students who completed 6th grade at St. Lawrence earned the honor of being in the top Ten Percent of their Monett graduating class.

Extracurricular Activities St. Lawrence School offers opportunities to participate in Choir and Math Team, as well as and Volleyball, Basketball, and Track with St. Mary’s School in Pierce City.

Committed Faculty Teachers are Missouri state certified, many hold advanced degrees. Our teachers are prepared and eager to educate your children. With a student: teacher ratio of roughy 13:1, opportunities for individualized instruction are abundant.

Affordability

The cost to attend may be more affordable than you expect. For one student regardless of faith or parish affiliation, tuition and fees for a school year total $1675. Families with multiple students receive a discount.

101 N. Hickory, On the Square

Mt. Vernon, MO

Friday night seafood buffets

Wine and Beer Served Mon. - Fri. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fri. and Sat. 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday 7 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Sunday Brunch 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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417-235-3721

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510 E. Hwy. 32 • Stockton 62 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

Not only do our equipment, warranties and services exceed industry standards,

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With over 60 years of combined experience, our reputation speaks for itself. Our technicians receive the highest level of training to provide you with the quality service you deserve. We use the best computer technology to secure and better serve our customers by providing better information, faster service and more consistant quality.

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s ’ n e K 712 W. 10th St. • Cassville, MO 65625 417-847-1200 • 800-900-1593 Cell: 417-846-5252 • Fax 417-847-1600

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ANTIQUES & FLEA MARKET 108 S. MADISON DOWNTOWN AURORA

417-678-2210

Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Sundays 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

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www.freedombk.com JANUARY 2014

WILLARD GOLDEN 36042 Hwy 86 502 S. State Hwy AB 417-742-1176 417-271-3814 CASSVILLE 97 S. Main Street 417-846-1719 SHELL KNOB SELIGMAN 24828 Hwy 39 Hwy 37 S. 417-858-3136 417-662-7000 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 63

New Patient Special Free Dental Exam and X-rays

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417-393-8676 Billy Stanley

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Trunk Inc.

Winter Clearance Sale

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2040 LaQuesta Dr • Neosho, MO 64858 P. 417-451-1566 • F. 417-451-5262

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Only to fix it!

Hablamos Espanol 64 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

UNDER ARMOR • PUMA • LEVI’S • QUICKSILVER • NIKE MY MICHELLE • MISS ME • PEACHES ’N CREAM CACH CACH • LIPSTIK • ISOBELLA • CHLOE • SKETCHERS • WEE SQUEAK

JANUARY 2014

FEBRUARY 2014 EVENTS FEBRUARY 1 The Miller Lions Club will host its first Saturday Fish Fry from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lions Club Building, located on Main Street in Miller.

A dance will be held at the Cassville Senior Citizens center at 1111 Fair St. from 7 to 10 p.m. The dance features the Roaring River Sounds Band. There is a $4 cover charge.

A dance will be held at the Aurora Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring the Funtimers Band.

FEBRUARY 4 The monthly dance at the Monett Senior Citizens Center will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. There is a $3 cover charge with all proceeds benefiting the center.

The Cassville Chamber of Commerce will host its First Friday Coffee at City Hall.

For more information, call the Cassville Chamber of Commerce at 417-847-2814.

FEBRUARY 7 A dance will be held at the Stella Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring a local band.

FEBRUARY 8 A dance will be held at the Aurora Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring the Funtimers Band.

FEBRUARY 14 A dance will be held at the Stella Senior Center from 7to 10 p.m. Featuring a local band.

FEBRUARY 15 Eagle Viewing Days will be held at Roaring River State Park. For more information, call 417-847-2539.

A dance will be held at the Aurora Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring the Funtimers Band.

FEBRUARY 18 The Southern Beekeepers of Missouri will meet at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Monett. Anyone interested in bees is welcome to attend.

For more information, call Leon Riggs at 417-235-5053 or Kevin Young at 417847-5464.

FEBRUARY 21 A dance will be held at the Stella Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring a local band.

FEBRUARY 22 A dance will be held at the Aurora Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring the Funtimers Band.

www.cassville-democrat.com www.cassville-democrat.com

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FEBRUARY 23 The Ozark Festival Orchestra will perform at 3 p.m. at the Monett City Hall Auditorium. Admission is $5.

FEBRUARY 27 The Pierce City Senior Citizens will host a dance from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Pierce City Senior Center.

FEBRUARY. 28 A dance will be held at the Stella Senior Center from 7 to 10 p.m. Featuring a local band.

FR EE A mag azin e ded icat ed to Sou thw est Miss our ians

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pierc e city nativ e histo ric frisco resto res home on stree t in mone tt E MONETT MOULAG

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ARTISTS HAVE MASTERE D THEIR CRAFT

If you have an event you would like featured in our monthly events listing, please email the event information to Melonie Roberts at reporter@monett-times.com.

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GOLDEN PIONEER MUSEUM SHOWCA MONETT SESMOULAG A VARIETY E ARTISTS OF COLLECTIONS HAVE MASTERE D THEIR CRAFT

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GOLDEN PIONEER MUSEUM SHOWCASES A VARIETY OF COLLECT IONS

APR IL 2011

APR IL 2011

26 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE JANUARY 2014

MAGAZINE | 65 26CONNECTION | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

ADVERTISING INDEX Acambaro Mexican Restaurant Amazing Painting Ava Belle’s Flea Market Barry Electric Cooperative Baywash Car Wash Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home Bookmarks Bruner Pharmacy Bumpers Bar & Grill Carolyn Hunter, DMD, PC Chapel of Grace Community National Bank Country Dodge CoxHealth Crane Family Dentistry Diet Center Doug’s Pro Lube Eastside Church of Christ Ed’s Flea Market Edward Jones El Mariachi

53 45 62 33 53 28 28 16 66 16 18 18 44 68 33 24 33 28 29 16 64

Emma’s Place Find It Again First State Bank of Purdy Fohn Funeral Home Four Seasons Realty Four States Dental Care Freedom Bank Herb Depot Hospice Compassus Ila Bohm’s Home Décor Journagan True Value Ken’s Collision Lackey Body Works Les Jacobs Ford Lewis Hybrids Lowe’s Auto Glass Making Memories Tours Mercy Mocha Jo’s Coffee Café Monett/Aurora Agri-Center Pet Connect

10 48 29 46 10 64 62 53 24 62 45 62 48 53 4 48 18 2 46 46 39

Pettit & Pettit Ramey Race Brothers Red Barn Antiques Red Barn Cafe Sater/Old Town Pharmacy Security Bank Smile Designers Dentistry Spiritual Streams St. Lawrence Catholic School Starla K’s Fashions Sunrise Family Restaurant The Jane Store The Trunk Tomblin’s Jewelry & Gifts Trogdon Agency, Inc. True to You Photography Whitley Pharmacy Willis Insurance, Inc. YMCA Zumba Fitness

44 49 12 5 62 28 48 29 5 62 44 45 53 64 24 45 64 12 12 10 4

10 8

67

Framing The Red 6 3r -5 5 dS -23 treet • Monett • 417

EVERYNIGHT IS With Special Guests:

Honkysuckle

Fleas & Heartburn

LADIES NIGHT Drink Specials

FREE POOL EVERY THURSDAY POOL LEAGUE EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT

Tuesday BOTTOMLESS DRAUGHT Friday Jan. 3 • 8 p.m. - 1 a.m.

$10.00 Cover

Saturday Jan. 18 • 8 p.m. - 1 a.m.

$10.00 Cover

½ lb. Bacon Cheeseburger 66 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Chicken wings and appetizers available!

NEW

burger ½ lb. Philly Cheese JANUARY 2014

PARTING SHOT

BY JEFF TERRY

I ALWAYS WONDER WHY BIRDS STAY IN THE SAME PLACE WHEN THEY CAN FLY ANYWHERE ON THE EARTH. THEN I ASK MYSELF THE SAME THING. -- HARUN YAHYA JANUARY 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 67

68 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014