Ozarks Outdoors Fall 2014

FREE

making a bow hunter

FALL 2014

Get up. Get out. Get going.

ONE ARROW AT A TIME

wild game recipes sharing the harvest of the hunt

AUTUMN

IN THE OZARKS

MAKE THE HUNT A MISSION FOR THE HEART

guide

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SOME ESSENTIALS FOR A WELL-PREPARED EXPERIENCE

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

atv gear

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

outdoors Get up. Get out. Get going.

FALL 2014

14 EDITOR Sherry Tucker thorntonlives@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Veronica Zucca vzucca614@gmail.com ADVERTISING Sheila Harris Marion Chrysler Jim Sexton Diane Newcomb

PHOTOGRAPHERS Charles Henry Ford II Chuck Nickle Kerry Hays Jeff Terry Rob Lotufo

Send e-mail inquiries to thorntonlives@gmail.com Mailing address: P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708 Ozarks Outdoors is published and distributed free in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas.

Ozarks Outdoors is a publication of the Cassville Democrat, The Monett Times, the Lovely County Citizen, Carroll County News and Rust Communications.

INSIDE

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COLORFUL PATHS Autumn in the Ozarks

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ATV GEAR GUIDE

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SHARING THE HARVEST OF THE HUNT

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH With a toddler

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MAKING A BOW HUNTER One arrow at a time

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CHURCH FROM THE DEER STAND Unique ministry gets down and dirty to reach souls

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THE RULES OF THE ROAD Bicycle and pedestrian safety

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ENCOUNTER An essay by Larry Rottmann

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WILD GAME RECIPES

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GOING THE DISTANCE FOR MS

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TAKE YOUR PIC Photos contributed by readers

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

CONTRIBUTORS Sheila Harris Mark Conner Jennifer Conner Richard Reed Layne Sleeth Shawn Hayden Katrina Hine

To advertise: 417-847-2610 - Cassville 417-235-3135 - Monett 870-423-6636 - Berryville 479-253-0070 - Eureka Springs

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

T

HIS PHOTO CAPTURES THE first time I ever held a compound bow in my hands.

Les Fields, who co-owns Washburn Archery Supply, made sure that I didn’t leave until I had the chance to take a shot with one of his Mathews bows, while I was interviewing him for the story about his bow shop. He showed me how to hold and pull back the bow, and then explained how to aim at the target using the bow sights.

I released the trigger and my arrow shot above the target. Les handed me another arrow, and I pulled back the bow and aimed again. I took a shot and hit the foam target deer! I was hooked!

Target practice is fun. Moving from target practice to real hunting, though,

that will take some serious practice and confidence building. But, I can now understand and appreciate the sport of bow-hunting, and I hope that you all will enjoy hearing about why the hunters I talked to enjoy the sport as well.

Fall is here and it is the perfect time to take that hike through one of our glorious national or state parks.

My family and I take a yearly trek around the seven-mile perimeter of the National Military Park at Pea Ridge. It’s a great opportunity to take in the fresh air, see a large variety of trees going through their fall transition, and even try out some ripe persimmons. We always catch sight of deer on that path, and have also spied some wild turkeys while hiking. Layne Sleeth’s article in this issue

explores different routes through the Ozarks where fall foliage becomes a living tapestry not to be missed! I plan on trying out one of her routes this fall.

Though we are enjoying the fall, winter is coming and I do not like to be cold. But, I still like to be outdoors. My solution? I bundle up in layers, wear coveralls, scarves, warm hats, wool socks and insulated boots – and stay as active as possible when I am outside.

Keeping your body moving is the best way to stay warm. The beauty of our Ozark winter is worth the effort it takes to bundle up and get out into it.

Stay warm, have fun and – Get up. Get out. Get going.

Take care, Sherry Tucker

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FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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COLORFUL PATHS STORY AND PH OTO S BY L AY N E S L EET H

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HAT’S RED, ORANGE, YELLOW, PURPLE, BROWN and crunchy all over? It’s fall in the Ozarks! Each year, early October gives way to a shift in our scenery. Yet, the chromatic hues and textures of autumn never get old. Everything seems renewed with crisp energy in preparation for winter. Peak color occurs two or three weeks after the color turn starts. For the Ozarks,

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

THE OZARKS’ FALL COLOR PALETTE RED maples oaks sweetgum dogwood sassafras YELLOWS AND ORANGES hickory ash beech birch sycamore white oak

it is projected that the weekend of October 15 is when we will be in full color display, and the show will last until midNovember. Though of course, this is subject to the whims of Mother Nature.

Without further ado, here are a few favorite Natural State drives that showcase the fall splendor:

The drive from Cassville, Mo., to Eureka Springs, Ark., provides some interesting topography, with views of the Mark Twain National Forest, Table Rock Lake, and lovely fall foliage. Take Hwy. 112 out of Cassville and meander through Roaring River State Park, turn onto F and head toward Eagle Rock. From there, Eureka Springs is just a jump, hop, and a skip south. The vivid leaves provide a nice backdrop to the charming little Victorian village. Just northwest of Eureka Springs on Highway 62, there is a great view from Inspiration Point that looks out over a panorama of picturesque hills with the White River winding through the valley. The drive from Cassville to Eureka Springs is just over 28 miles.

Just a bit further south, the drive from Harrison, Ark., to the little town of Jasper in the Buffalo National River Area is stunning in the fall.

As a bonus, October is also the prime time to see the large elk population in Boxley Valley, as it is rutting season and bull elk are active and bugling. In Jasper, don’t neglect to stop in at the Ozark Cafe, a historical landmark that’s been open since 1909.

They serve big meals and pie to top it off with. The drive from Harrison to Jasper is 19 miles of pure scenery-- just take AR-7 South out of Harrison.

The Boston Mountain scenic loop runs from Fayetteville to Alma and is part U.S. 71 and part Interstate

THE FIRST PEEKS OF RED ON DOGWOODS

WHY DO LEAVES CHANGE COLORS? As the fall days grow shorter, chlorophyll in the leaves (the pigment that makes leaves green and uses sunlight to produce food for the whole tree) isn’t receiving ample sunlight to keep working, so it breaks down into sugars. As the green chlorophyll pigment fades, the other colors left behind show up. These colors are from varying amounts of other pigments that are called carotenoids and create the beautiful visual effect of fall foliage

with orange and yellow hues. The red and purple hues come from sugars in the leaves that transform into the pigment anthocyanin. This pigment is produced well with warm and sunny autumn days and cool nights.

So what is the ideal weather for

vibrant fall foliage? Sunny days and cool nights. Frost and rainfall can cause leaves to fall, cutting short the colorful display. The vibrant leaves are just hanging on by a fragile stem and any sort of raucous wind or weather will leave trees pretty bare.

These are just a few of the alluring stretches of road that light up with the onset of fall in the Ozarks region. Wherever you find yourself roaming this season, may your path be strewn with vibrantly colored leaves.

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It’s a short 15-mile drive from Rogers, Ark., to Pea Ridge National Military Park. This historic park is great for fall hiking, biking, or even horseback riding. You can drive the tour road inside of the park or just relax and take in a piece of U.S. history. Regardless of what you do, you won’t be able to avoid the bright fall foliage.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

540. Arkansas Scenic Byway U.S. 71 twists through the Boston Mountains, giving drivers a real feel for an autumnal and multicolored Arkansas Ozarks. The drive from Fayetteville to Alma is about 48 miles and worth it.

E D I U G R A E G ATV I

T’S FALL IN THE OZARKS. THE TEMPERATURES ARE dropping, and the ground is getting good and wet, which means lots of mud. In addition to hunting, at this time of year my mind turns to ATV riding, or 4-wheeling. Last fall and winter were exceptionally cold, and I learned the hard way that the right gear can make the difference between having a blast and coming home miserable. Here is my list of essentials for a well prepared ATV experience.

GOGGLES I wear glasses, so these are not on my must list, but I’ll be trying these “over the glasses” models this season. Now if they could just come up with a mud proof, self cleaning pair...

6 WINCH These are awfully handy when you get between a rock and a hard place. You might even get to save the day if you run into a Wheeler that’s less than prepared out on the trail.

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2 RUBBER BOOTS Calf-high and completely waterproof, I think these are your best bet for trying to keep your feet warm and dry through hell and high water.

7 REAR PACK Lots of room for gear and a seat for your extra passenger.

www.academy.com

4 HELMET I don’t normally wear one for dirt trail riding, but if I did, I’d pick one just like this. www.amazon.com

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

3 INSULATED WATERPROOF BIB Of course you can wear what you want, but when you are hip deep in mud, and its windy and cold, you’ll be glad you picked a good pair of bib overalls. Plus, you can slip them off and throw them in the back of truck at the end of the day. www.rockyboots.com

5 A GOOD HAT A visor for the sun, and earflaps for the cold. This may be the most overlooked piece of gear there is. Here’s my pick for all around performance and versatility. www.duluthtrading.com

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www.cabelas.com

8 GUN RACK Dear Santa, I want one of these.

Please. www.sportsmansguide.com

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9 TIRES I roll on the stock-issue Polaris Sportsman tires, but I’d sure like a set of these. www.rockymountainatvmc.com

10 RETRACTABLE TIE DOWN STRAPS Awesomely retractable. What will they think of next? www.handyindustries.com

11 MITTS Not an essential, but when the wind picks up, and the temps drop, you’ll more than likely be glad you brought them.

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12 SPARE KIT Flats happen. Do not leave the parking lot without one! www.basspro.com

13 SPARE FUEL TANK Just in case. www.homedepot.com

Stay dry, stay warm and be careful out there. Have a great time our beautiful Ozark countryside this season.

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FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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KINGS RIVER FLOAT TRIP

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

AN OZARK ADVENTURE

Sharing the the hunt tou

STORY A N D PH OTO S BY K AT R IN A H IN E

N

O ONE WHO HAS EVER HUNTED can deny the thrill of tracking down that monster buck or spotting a big beautiful doe. For most die-hard hunters, the season has taken months of planning and preparation to land that prize deer.

However, what most hunters, and the public in general, do not know is that right on their own doorstep are people of all ages and walks of life who would love nothing more than real meat on their table.

This is where the Share the Harvest program serves up fresh lean meat – to families finding themselves in a crisis. The program began in 1992 as a grassroots

effort by a group of archery hunters in Columbia, Mo., who wanted to share their deer meat with those less fortunate. Years later the program evolved into a statewide program jointly administered by the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri, that coordinate with regional food pantries and other agencies serving the needy across the state.

According to the Conservation website, by 2010, the donations of deer meat topped over two million pounds collectively and the program averages 200,000 pounds each year. It is obvious

harvest of uches hearts The organization served 720 families in August alone. Break that down, and it averages to 2,031 individuals – the population of most small towns. It is not unusual for there to be 10 people living under one roof and the most shocking statistic is that several families actually live in tents by local creeks and rivers. When winter starts to set in, then they move in with a relative who has a house. “I want to convey to everyone the magnitude of what we’re seeing and that it is actually worse than we first thought,” Angie said.

The only criteria to qualify is that they prove residency in McDonald County and that they meet income guidelines for other services. However, as Angie adds, “We don’t turn people away who have a true need or have experienced a crisis such as losing a home or job.”

“The positive side of all of this is that despite having our funding cut in half, we are still meeting needs because our Thrift Store sales have increased. For months on end, we were serving 500 families a month and suddenly there was a jump to 720, but honestly, the Lord provides because it was all covered through the donations of clothing and other items,” explained Angie. Share the Harvest gives people a chance to help when they might not have money to donate or things to give, but they may like to hunt and have the opportunity to give meat to needy residents of their prospective county.

For the McDonald County area there is only one processor participating in the Share the Harvest program; Goodman Meat Processing located on Roy Hill Blvd. in Goodman. The father and son team of Mark

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS CROSSLINES DIRECTOR ANGIE MARTIN REVIEWS DATA HIGHLIGHTING INCREASES THE INCREASE OF CLIENTS REQUESTING ASSISTANCE.

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that networking across the local, county and state lines has served to meet needs of thousands of Missouri residents who may find themselves in difficult situations in the economic downturn.

Crosslines Director, Angie Martin sees firsthand how the deer meat benefits families in McDonald County. “Meat is very hard to come by and is a big expense for anybody. If we didn’t have the meat donated by the folks at Goodman Meat Processing, the only protein we could distribute is chicken. When that runs out we pass out canned tuna or meat,” she said.

Crosslines gets their commodities from the Ozarks Food Harvest Food Bank located in Springfield, which serves a 28-county area in Southwest Missouri. Most food pantries are only given commodities through FEMA funds; the remainder of support comes from local donors, usually churches.

Unfortunately, donations have dropped by almost half, but according to Angie, donations of clothing and goods to sell in the Thrift Store have filled in the gaps.

One issue that seems to be universal among social service providers is the drug abuse issue and as Angie can attest firsthand, grandparents are bearing the largest burden when it comes to taking in their grandchildren. Many are already on a fixed Social Security income, $500 - $600 a month is not uncommon and some do not qualify for additional assistance. Most do not get food stamps either, and if they do, it is minimal, like $20 a month. “The amount of children being raised by grandparents is just unbelievable,” Angie states adding, “we see anywhere from five to 10 new families a day. We keep thinking that we have seen them all and then someone new comes in for assistance.”

OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

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and Cory Knight purchased the locker plant in April 2012. Both men are avid hunters, cattle producers and believe in commitment to your community. Cory, who operates the shop, was eager to give back to the community when he found out about Share the Harvest. “I heard about it but never really knew much about it so I decided to do some research and found that there are a lot of winners in the program,” Cory points out while wrapping up beef steaks.

“We just thought it would be good for the community and with the price of beef right now there are a lot of families having a tough time making it and meat is one of the more expensive things to purchase.”

Since purchasing the locker, the Knights, to better serve their customers, have been making improvements, such as an indoor kill pen. Also, just in time for the opening of deer season, they now have a refrigerated deer drop box to accept deer after hours. In addition, they have a man who lives in town that can also come to accept deer after hours.

Newton County has two meat processors that participate in Share the Harvest, Hatfield Meats in Neosho and Seneca Locker Plant in Seneca. Like Goodman Meat Processing, Seneca Locker Plant owner, Brad Bradford, wants to get the word out about donating deer meat.

“We only got two deer last year, which we donated to the Seneca Food Pantry on Main in Seneca, but we hope to get a lot more this year to help out.” Seneca Food Pantry serves the R-7 School District area and two miles into Oklahoma, and like Crosslines, is a 501 C3 not-for-profit and assists qualifying families with food. The Thrift Store directly supports the Seneca Food Pantry by receiving donated clothes and other items, which it then resells at a low cost. For both agencies, community support is critical to providing the necessary means to feed the growing number of clients applying for commodities.

The Conservation Federation of Missouri reimburses processors a predetermined amount for each whole deer donated. This allows processors to reduce processing fees to hunters. In addition, many processors receive other local money available that allows deer to be processed free of charge or at a reduced cost. Goodman Meat Processing has been allotted for the processing for 20 deer for this year’s Share the Harvest. Be

CORY REVEALS THE DEER DROP BOX, A NEW CONCEPT FOR MOST MEAT PROCESSORS. HE PLANS TO HAVE IT OPERATIONAL BY THE OPENING OF DEER SEASON.

sure to contact individual processors to determine if funds are available. The cost of processing the deer is roughly $60 and a good investment that goes a long way to stop hunger in your community. Anyone from businesses, groups or organizations can donate toward processing of one deer.

For more information on donating, you may contact Michaela Haymaker at 573634-2322 or email her at MHaymaker@ confedmo.org.

The area conservation agent monitors the USDA approved facility, ensures that all the records are accurate and that the meat collected is passed on to the recipient organization. According to local McDonald County Conservation agent, Adam Strader, the program not only provides lowincome families with fresh meat but it also encourages some people who would not otherwise harvest deer to participate as a way to donate in their community.

Even though there are limited funds at the state level, this should not prevent hunters or landowners from taking part in the program. “People can pay for the processing as a donation to the organization receiving the meat within their county,” Strader points out. “Or any business can step up and donate funds to have the meat processed and distributed to the local organization.”

The department’s biggest challenge is with too many deer, but Share the Harvest is a great management tool for the Conservation Department. Most people

don’t realize that deer are a challenge because of the damage they do to crops, in causing accidents or simply because herd sizes can influence herd health. In 2013, over 5,000 hunters through 100 meat processors in 74 counties donated 252,000 pounds of meat. The only two main criteria is that the deer must be a white-tailed deer taken legally in Missouri and donated through an approved meat processing facility.

Not only is it a great way to give back to the community, but it is a great way for organizations to pool their resources and efforts for the good of their local community. Volunteer groups such as 4-H, community clubs or other organizations can pass out information about donating deer meat to approved sites. The best benefit according to Cory is that deer meat is some of the leanest and most natural meat you can get. His goal for this year is to beat the number of deer donated last year, which was 15 and exceed 600 pounds of deer meat donated to Crosslines.

So this deer season, not only can hunters get a rush from the hunt they can also get a rush from providing a healthy meat option to the tables of possibly hundreds of low income residents across the Southwest Missouri region. You can’t beat the bragging rights on that!

For more information on approved processors in your county go to the Conservation website: www.mdc.mo.gov/ hunting trapping/deer/share-harvest

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Big Store with a lot of Stuff!

Off STORY AND PHOTOS BY JENNIFER CONNER

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

WITH A TODDLER

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N SEPTEMBER, OUR FAMILY TOOK a trip to Colorado, and in lieu of staying in a “cabin� complete with a big screen television and hot tub and *gasp* electricity, we opted for the path less traveled and stayed in a backcountry yurt. No electricity, no running water (except for the stream down in the valley), and most importantly no other people or man-made structures for miles! Now, for my husband and I, the yurt was a luxury.

After all there were bunks, a woodstove and even a propane cook stove! We are both avid backpackers having experienced

weeks in the wilderness spent in tiny tents during which we relied on campfires to cook our food. However, this journey was different, this time we brought our toddler.

It was new territory. And yet, ever since her 4-month birthday, we have embarked on a series of shorter trial runs including camping trips, float trips and hikes. And we found that with our Aarilyn, this longer trip was not only doable, but it was downright fun!

So, here are the top 5 things I have learned about embarking on long-ish outdoor adventures with a toddler:

TRANSPORTATION There’s no way around it – you’re going to have to invest in some gear if you’re serious about going on outdoor adventures with a toddler. A good toddler backpack will run around $200, but these are things that can easily be found on Craigslist and eBay in practically new condition and cheap!

You’ll also need another weekender (large) backpack (assuming you have at least two adults embarking on this adventure – and you really should, for safety’s sake) to carry additional gear.

If you plan on doing multiple nights you’re going to, most likely, need a jogging stroller to assist with gear. We used a Chariot Carrier and bungeed our gear inside.

Note: we found both our Kelty backpack and Chariot Carrier used, online for significantly cheaper than new.

BE SUPER, ULTRA, INSANELY PREPARED... but don’t sweat it.

There are some things you need – like diapers. We typically use cloth diapers during the day, but made an exception for a week-long adventure, ‘cause who wants to haul those puppies back? So, don’t forget the diapers or the wipes – or the garbage bags to haul out said diapers and wipes. There are other things you can do without. For instance, we brought zero toys. That’s right, zero, because guess what? Nature was her toy – rocks, sticks, leaves, grass and insects. Who needs toys? There are other things that seem cumbersome but that might just be worth the haul. For instance, on our Colorado trip, we hiked in a pack ‘n’ play! It ended up being a lifesaver, because Aarilyn had her own “safe” place to sleep (important in a yurt with a woodstove) and we were able to keep her on somewhat of a napping schedule, which made the trip more pleasant for everyone!

Here’s a list of some toddler essentials we brought with us: (This list is by no means exhaustive) n n n n n n n n

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Baby sunblock Sunhat Good pair of hiking shoes Extra pair of shoes Sleeping bag. We just brought an adult bag and it worked splendidly Toddler life-jacket Pack ‘n’ Play for overnight excursions not in a tent Therm-a-rest; for tent camping, we just use an extra adult Therm-a-rest “Clean” water for baby. We used a water filter and pumped right out of the stream for our own drinking water

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

n Healthy snacks/treats including Homemade granola and fruit roll-ups n Diapers n Wipes; these can be used to perform multiple tasks like washing hands, wiping out cookware, etc. n Garbage bags; for all of our trash and dirty diapers n First aid kit with baby ibuprofen n Plenty of extra pants for unexpected leaks n Hand sanitizer n Stocking cap n Baby-approved bug spray

HAVE A HOMEBASE Whether you’re tent camping or staying in a structure, like a yurt, it’s really nice to have a homebase with a toddler.

A place where you can pack in all of your stuff and then take pleasant, relatively unencumbered day hikes. Otherwise, if you hike from site to site and set up a different camp each night, you’ll likely feel like an exhausted pack mule and will have a hard time enjoying your outing.

BE AWARE OF THEIR LIMITS... and throw away your clock For your first outdoor adventure, decide how long your toddler will last hiking or floating then cut that number in half. You can always work your way up.

Don’t bite off more than you can chew and expect your cherub to be cheery the entire time. We found that 1-2 hours is a good block of time to hike or float with a toddler.

Remember, she/he is sitting in a backpack or jogging stroller and they love to be out walking just like you (even though they may be a little slower and distractable).

So allow your toddler to walk part of the way with you. We were amazed at how far Aarilyn hiked on her own and how much she wanted and delighted in hiking on her own. Also, don’t try to adhere to a rigid “schedule” (general schedules are ok, i.e. setting up camp before dark) because with all things toddler, you’re setting yourself up for failure and there IS no failure. The benefits of just walking out the front door and attempting an outdoor excursion with your tot, are immense.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

A LEARNING EXPERIENCE Use your time in nature to teach your child about nature. Show them all the wonderful details – rocks, leaves, insects.

Chances are you won’t even have to show them, they will discover nature all on their own. Allow them to show you things they see along the way. Toddlers are developing leadership skills and allowing them to walk on their own and show you the things they find interesting, reinforces their burgeoning sense of independence.

Aarilyn giggled and rejoiced in being chased around the valley while the Rockies, newly snowcapped, towered above us in the backcountry of Colorado. There are so few places left on our planet that are completely wild and untrammeled by man, and yet these are the places where our tired eyes are soothed and our weary souls are renewed. Instilling appreciation and love for wilderness, not only allows our children to flourish but it ensures that these

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Have specific questions about Outdoor Excursions with your tots?

E-mail Jennifer at geweyes@yahoo.com

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

places will be preserved for their children.

Each time you step outside with your child you are sculpting a legacy for future generations. So, what are you waiting for?

Get up, Get out, and get going, with your toddler!

MAKING A BOW HUNTER ONE ARROW AT A TIME

Washburn Archery Shop provides sport support and accommodations for young and old alike

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

S TORY BY S HERRY T UCK ER | PH OTO S BY RO B LOT UF O

R

IGHT BEFORE HE DRAWS BACK his bow, Chase Higgs, bowhunter from Exeter, Missouri, says, “You gotta have faith in your equipment.” He explains that practicing reinforces the confidence in your bow and your ability, and gives the reassurance that when you take that shot; you won’t miss.

Chase and his wife, Mandi, and their friends, Justin and Jessika Brattin are all outfitted with bows and accessories from Washburn Archery, owned and operated by Les Fields and John Loyd. The bow shop is a Mathews dealer, allows trade-ins, and can equip hunters with bows and accessories, as well as provide in-house service on bows.

Bow hunting is becoming an increasingly popular sport for everyone, especially young couples. Mandi Higgs shares, “What I like about hunting with my husband is that it is something that we can do together, whether it is just target shooting in the evening in the yard, or sitting in a buddy stand on a cold morning

hunting. Being able to spend quality time with him doing something we both love is such an amazing blessing.” Jessika Brattin agrees, “ I love doing something with my husband that we both enjoy.” Mandi is outfitted with a blue and purple camo bow, and Jessika has something with a little more bling, “I bought her a pink and black bow with zebra stripes, and she’s doing really well with it,” said Justin.

JUSTIN AND JESSIKA BRATTIN ARE PROUD OF THEIR BOWS. JESSIKA SAYS, “NOTHING’S FUNNER THAN TARGET SHOOTING WITH A BIG GROUP OF FRIENDS!”

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Les and John have had the shop nearly nine years. “We can work on all bows, but we are a Mathews dealer,” said Les. Les helps people with their bow purchases, picking out and putting on accessories and any necessary repairs. It’s important to Les that customers feel confident with their bow, and he will help them with handling and siting in their equipment, “We take them out back and let them shoot until they are comfortable with what they are doing.” They have an outdoor target range where shooters can practice and line up their sights.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

Owner, Les Fields encourages anyone to try it out, “Anybody ought to be able to shoot a bow. I have seen a lot of people make a family deal out of it.” Children get involved, too, “They can start plum down to eight years old. Mathews make a bow, the Mission Craze, that can be completely adjusted out till they are adults.” Les enjoys sharing the sport with youngsters, “It’s exciting seeing a little kid shoot and hit a target for the first time.” Les’ wife, Susan, said, “Les is in seventh heaven when a kid walks in, he loves working with them.”

Les sells and installs lots of accessories, “Sights and arrowrests are the most popular, and rangefinders are a big seller, too.” Rangefinders are an important piece of equipment for bow hunters. They are an instrument that help the hunter judge the distance of the target so that they can accurately set their bow sights. Depending on distance and speed of the arrow, which is determined by the draw-weight and draw-length, the drop of the arrow affects judgement when aiming at the target. A hunter can go full-tilt with a completely tricked out bow, or keep it simple with a bow and a sight.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

LES AND HIS DAUGHTER, WHITNEY, ENJOY THEIR TIME IN THE DEERSTAND TOGETHER WITH THEIR BOWS.

Whether hunting for deer, rabbit, squirrel or either fish or frogs, bow-hunting can accommodate. Personal preference is what guides the hunter.

Les would like to see more youth get involved, and even school programming for

it, “I know there are programs available that can help schools establish archery programs, that would be great.” Les and John are available during business hours for help with your archery needs. If you can’t find them in the shop, look for them in the deerstand.

FROG GIGGING WITH A BOW? OF COURSE! MANDI HIGGS SHOWS OFF HER LEGS AFTER A SUCCESSFUL FROG HUNT.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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Church from the deer stand Unique ministry gets down and dirty to reach souls

A

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

S THE WIND BEGINS TO GET A chill, hinting that fall is upon the Ozarks and winter will soon follow, roughly a dozen men are testing their bows, sighting in their guns or placing deer stands high in the oak trees of Southwest Missouri.

This ritual isn’t unusual for men of the outdoor sort, but what is different about this group of men is their passion for winning souls. The group, Eternal Expedition, solidified its mission with its first filmed hunt in 2009. The ministry began, simply, with men that like to hunt, fish or hike, but who also happened to be on fire for spreading the Gospel.

Jared Proctor, pastor at Buffalo Creek Baptist Church west of Anderson, originally decided to take up hunting to meet people.

A self-proclaimed fisherman, he had not hunted much, but found comparisons between pursuing Christ and pursuing game while on a fishing trip with J.W. Bowman. It became clear that each quest takes ongoing preparation, practice to hone one’s skills and persistence.

The foundational scripture for the ministry is John 17:3 –“ Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Unlike the usual assumption about a ministry, there is no dress code, they may meet indoors or outdoors, cooking over a fire and soaking in the nature around them.

The ministry is not tied to any particular denomination, in fact, several of the men come from other churches and with the number growing from the original core group of 12 men; hunters from other areas ask to be part of the growing ministry. It is important to note that the ministry is not limited to just deer hunting, but to anything outdoors such as hiking, fishing, or hunting fowl and isn’t limited to men who love the outdoors but also women.

The objective is to reach out to people who may never step into a church. While the aim of the ministry is to focus on the Lord and maintain integrity in all aspects of its functions, Jared makes this point, “The Lord always knew how to meet people where they were in their life. He went to people that others never wanted to reach. Christianity should be like a hunting adventure, relying on the Holy Spirit to be your guide in life’s adventure.”

The group video records the process leading up to a hunt and apply different scriptures to show how life and pursuing different things in our life can compare to things discussed in scripture. In the beginning, a lot of trial and error occurred while filming, but the group has refined

S TO R Y BY K AT R INA HI NE their videography skills and now even have a YouTube channel and Facebook page of their hunting highlights. The YouTube site shows that sometimes there is success and sometimes there is loss while on the hunt.

The men make it clear they are not in it for fame or fortune but in the pursuit of a relationship with the Lord.

Since its humble beginnings, the ministry has achieved most of the goals set forth by the core group. It is now an official 501c3 non-profit organization with a board of directors, the YouTube views has exceeded their original goal and currently sits at 36,143 views and touts 291 subscribers. The most popular video, with 26,932 views, is the Broadhead Review that compares six types of broadheads, demonstrating that it is important to perform a standardized test to determine the best head for the type of hunt. It transitions to explaining that in the same way people think that they are good enough but without a standardized test such as the Ten Commandments, we do not realize that we all have fallen short.

Each video has a story behind it and one such video features a hunt with Levi Sanny, one of the original core group, successfully bagging a 180-inch buck last year eight months after the death of Levi’s best friend, Jeremy Sanny, who encouraged him to stay on the hunt for the monster buck shortly before passing away. Levi decided to name the deer Barney Deuce because his kids love Barney.

THE GROUP ENCOURAGES OTHERS TO SHARE THE VIDEO OF THEIR HUNT EXPERIENCE, REQUIRING ONLY THAT IT BE SHOT FROM A TRIPOD AND A GOOD QUALITY VIDEO CAMERA. INTERESTED PERSONS MAY VISIT ETERNAL EXPEDITION’S FACEBOOK PAGE, EMAIL THE GROUP AT: ETERNALEXPEDITION@ HOTMAIL.COM OR CALL JARED AT 417-861-0528 OR LEVI AT 417-456-2693 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

a hunting widow all season.” This prompts Jared, whose wife Dawn does the photo shoots for the group, to consider taking Dawn on a hunt and video record the experience. Teasing, he tells Brian, “Can you imagine how that would go?” Hinting that there might be more talking and restroom breaks to interrupt the hunt. However, Jared concedes that it is pretty nice when Dawn asks about broadheads and other hunting terms even though he knows she has no clue what they are.

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ExpoCentre. The guys are excited to take part in the Sunday Camo Church where no booths will be open just good wholesome fellowship.

“Fellowship is more than just church, connecting fellowship to friendship, it’s a natural way to do what we talk about in church but living it in the world,” Jared said.

Jennifer Habert, wife of Brian and sister to Jared, sighs at the conclusion of the discussion, “One thing I pray for is that Brian gets a big buck soon so I’m not

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

The group of avid outdoorsmen have spoken to over 2,000 people in the last year and had 10 decisions to follow Christ made through either outdoor expos or special presentations. “We even had one man approach our booth to talk hunting and one of our guys, Nathan, told him about his relationship with Jesus and the man nicely stated that he had never heard that name and didn’t know who Nathan was talking about,” Jared said. Four months later another man called saying he found one of their brochures and wanted to ask several questions about things he had heard about the Bible.

For a second time a few of the group have gone on a mission trip to Peru to share the Gospel and take in a friendly soccer game with local village children and go fishing for piranha. Nothing speaks more to their commitment to share the good news than rough outdoorsmen playing Duck, Duck, Goose with a group of giggling Peruvian children. Brian and Jared are quick to point out that every event is an opportunity to serve as missionaries, even in your own community.

The group also hosts their own annual Wild Game feed each year in October where they feature all types of wild game and have drawings for guns and this year a Mathews Creed XS bow valued at over $1,000. The first game feed hosted over 200 people and served up such delicacies as deer, elk, shark, wild hog and squirrel.

Brian Habert, board member and brother in law to Jared, leans on his Bible while stating the importance of the ministry.

“We hope to encourage each of our members to step outside of their comfort zone and experience growth in their walk.

We hope that people feel this ministry is accessible to answering any questions they might have about faith in Jesus and to build one another up.” Brian, like Jared is new to hunting, shot his first bow in 2011. He wanted to come alongside like-minded men who were experienced bowhunters who could teach him new skills.

Interest has grown locally and in other states with the group having a video on the Local Access Channel 199, giving presentations at other game feeds in Oklahoma and having a booth at the Kansas Monster Buck Classic the last weekend of January each year at the Topeka

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THE RULES OF THE ROAD Bicycle and pedestrian safety

BY S H AWN H AY D E N

A

S THE SEASON CHANGES TO THE cool of fall, more people will be spending time walking and biking outside. While everyone should participate in these activities, we want to make sure that you are walking and biking safely.

While walking within you community, it is important to use the sidewalks when available. Walking on the sidewalks keeps you safe from road traffic. It is always important to keep an eye out for cars entering/exiting driveways while walking.

When walking on a sidewalk is not an option, and you must walk in the road, be sure to walk against the traffic. Walking against the traffic ensure that cars will see you. At no time should walkers be walking with traffic. If you find yourself walking on the road at dusk, it is always suggested to wear clothes with reflective material so drivers will see you.

While you must walk against traffic when walking on the street, it is the exact opposite for those on bicycles. Bicycles must be ridden with traffic.

It is not uncommon for drivers and cyclists alike to be confused by the rules of sharing the road. Bicycles must follow the same laws as if you are driving a motor vehicle. Per Missouri law, bicycles can be ridden on sidewalks, unless in a heavily pedestrian traffic area (typically downtown areas do not allow it).

Anyone riding a bicycle on the road slower than the posted speed limit should ride as far right as safe.

When riding between sunrise and sunset all bicycles must have a front light and either a rear reflector or red light. Riders should also wear reflective clothing.

All bikes must have brakes that work.

No bicyclist may hold on to a vehicle.

Traffic lights and sensors may not detect bicyclists, resulting in the traffic light not turning green. If this occurs, cyclists may proceed through the red light under certain circumstances: you come to a complete stop, the light does not change from red to green for a considerable amount of time, and there is a safe break in cross traffic—both pedestrians and cars.

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Get outside and partake in all the fun activities this cool weather brings, and remember, follow the rules because they’re made for YOUR safety.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

SHAWN HAYDEN IS THE PROJECT COORDINATOR FOR THE HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PROGRAM AT COX MONETT HOSPITAL. HE HAS AN UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE FROM DRURY UNIVERSITY IN CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY, AS WELL AS A MASTER’S DEGREE FROM MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY IN HEALTH PROMOTION AND WELLNESS MANAGEMENT. SHAWN IS AN AVID CYCLING ENTHUSIAST RACING MOST WEEKENDS ACROSS THE AREA. HE ENJOYS SPENDING TIME WITH HIS WIFE HIKING AND CAMPING AND THEIR TWO FUR KIDS.

BELOW ARE THE OTHER BICYCLE REGULATIONS:

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

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Encounter STORY CONTRI BUT ED BY LA R R Y ROT T M A N N

I

27

down a little, and I took ahold of his leg and attempted to pull it out from under the rock, but without success because the rock was so big and slippery.

By then, the small buck seemed to realize that I was trying to help him, and he ceased struggling altogether, and instead, he nuzzled and licked my hand, all while peering so sadly into my face with his huge brown eyes. I scrambled around until I found a large branch to use as a pry bar to lift the rock, which after a few minutes, I managed to do. But the deer still couldn’t stand. And, I then discovered that he’d also been shot (even though it wasn’t yet gun hunting season) in the hindquarters, and that the blood around the wound was still rather fresh.

So, as darkness approached, we sat there together, the exhausted and trusting deer with his head in my lap, and my bloody hands on his shoulders. He was shivering and suffering terribly, and he needed to be killed, otherwise he was doomed to die slowly, horribly and all alone. Surely mother nature and the Missouri Department of Conservation would have forgiven me for shooting him, but I didn’t have a firearm, and although I considered attempting to finish him off with a big rock or limb, I simply couldn’t bring myself to do that. Deer are pretty tough, and I just couldn’t imagine myself trying to batter the little guy to death.

So we both just sat there for quite a while, not moving, as I quietly explained to him that there was nothing more I could do.

And, finally, because I had no lights on my boat, I had to leave. As I motored away, I could see the deer watching me until I was out of sight, as I wiped hot tears out of the corner of my eyes.

On my way back to Springfield I turned up the radio’s music really loud, and tried to concentrate on the joy of the day, instead of the incident with the deer. Once at home, I parked my boat, put away my tackle, took a hot shower, drank a couple of tequilas, and then went to bed. And, right away I began dreaming about the deer, still lying at the foot of the bluff, and still waiting patiently there in the lonely dark for me to do something about his plight. I couldn’t sleep any longer, so I got out of bed at 4 a.m. dressed, loaded my pistol, hooked up my boat, and drove back to the lake. In the chilly breaking dawn, I motored back to the buck’s location, only to discover that he was already dead.

Just like second Lieutenant Peter B. Bushey, shot through the head by a Vietcong sniper, on his third day in-country, on a mission I had sent him on.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

N EARLY NOVEMBER OF 2012, I WENT FISHING AT MY favorite place, Stockton Lake, located about 35 miles northwest of Springfield, Missouri. It was a beautiful late autumn day, typical of what is often called Indian Summer, sunny, with billowy white clouds, temperatures in the mid-50s, and calm winds. Since it was a Friday, there were no other fishermen around, so I had the lake all to myself, which is how I like it.

As experienced anglers know, weather that nice usually means the fish don’t bite very well, and in this case, that was certainly true.

But, this wasn’t a problem, because for me, the “fishing” part of the activity is only an excuse, since angling is the sole recreational pursuit a lazy guy can engage in and yet not be considered to be loafing. Also, fishing allows me to escape from work, cities – and to be completely honest – people. Especially people.

Besides, when the fish aren’t biting, that gives me plenty of time to observe the extravagant abundance of wildlife that the natural beauty of Stockton Lake and its surrounding forest attracts: bald eagles, herons, cranes, hawks, ducks, geese, vultures, loons, pelicans, gulls, and, of course, songbirds of all types, deer, squirrels, turkeys, armadillos, beavers, otters, coyotes and rabbits; along with turtles, snakes and frogs. As the primary water supply source for the city of Springfield, no waterfront development of any kind is allowed on the lake, which helps keep the water clean and pure and greatly encourages the presence of wildlife.

I caught a few fish, had a picnic lunch (turkey jerky, Gouda cheese, Wheat Thins, a banana and coffee from Big Momma’s), and even took a shore nap on a bed of flame-red leaves beneath a giant maple tree. All-in-all, it was a fine day. As dusk approached, I headed my boat back toward the launching ramp, when from a distance I saw some unusual movement at the edge of the water near the base of a steep rocky bluff. I boated over to investigate and found a small young deer, weighing about 125 pounds, lying half in and half out of the water, and trying desperately to stand.

It appeared that he had slipped or fallen from the cliff, and had somehow jammed his left hind leg under a big rock, and was attempting mightily to yank it loose. He was panicking badly, both because of his dire situation, and now from the close presence of a human as well. I couldn’t just leave him like that, so I got out of my boat, and talking to him gently, approached his position. I sat down next to him, and began to stroke his back. After a bit, he calmed

WILD GAME

RECIPES

KENTUCKY BURGOO Serves 6 to 10 Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 3 hours, or more if your game is old and tough 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 to 2 squirrels or rabbits, cut into serving pieces 2 to 3 pounds venison, cut into large pieces (3 to 4 inches wide) 3 to 5 pheasant legs/thighs (bone-in) 1 green pepper, chopped 1 large onion, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 celery ribs, chopped 5 garlic cloves, chopped 1 quart pheasant or chicken stock 1 quart beef or game stock 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes 2 large potatoes 1 bag of frozen corn (about a pound) 1 bag of frozen lima beans (about 14 ounces) or canned black-eyed peas Salt and pepper 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce Tabasco or other hot sauce on the side Pour the oil into a large Dutch oven or soup pot and set the heat to medium-high. Working in batches, brown all the meats. Do not crowd the pan or the meat will not brown well. Salt the meat as it cooks. As they brown, move the various meats to a bowl.

Add the onions, carrots, celery and green pepper to the pot and turn the heat to high. Cook the vegetables until they are well browned; you might need to add a little more oil to the pot. When

the vegetables have browned, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add back the meats, along with the chicken and beef broths and the tomatoes. Stir to combine and add salt to taste. Bring to a simmer, cover, reduce the heat and simmer gently for 2 hours.

Fish out the meat pieces. Strip the pheasant and squirrel off the bone. Tear the large pieces of venison into bite-sized pieces. The reason you did not do this right at the start is because venison will stay moister when it cooks in larger pieces. Return all the meat to the pot and return the stew to simmer.

Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks about the same size as the meat pieces. Add them to the stew and simmer until they are tender. Add the Worcestershire sauce, mix well and taste for salt.

Add more Worcestershire sauce to taste if needed.

Finally, add the corn and lima beans. Mix well and cook for at least 10 minutes, or longer if you’d like. Serve with cornbread and a bottle of hot sauce on the side.

SAUTEED GROUSE (OR QUAIL) WITH PEACH-BALSAMIC SAUCE

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

Serves 4 2 tablespoons butter 2 cloves garlic, sliced 2 (1 pound) grouse, or quail, cut into quarters and patted dry 1/4 cup dry sherry or white wine 1/4 cup chicken stock 2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon 1/4 cup peach or apricot jam 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, or to taste Melt the butter with the garlic in a large skillet over low heat. Allow to bubble slowly for about 10 minutes to infuse the garlic into the butter, then remove garlic and reserve.

Increase the heat to medium-high. When hot, brown the

grouse until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side; then set aside.

Pour the sherry into the skillet and allow to simmer for 20 seconds.

Stir in the chicken stock, tarragon, and peach jam; bring back to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Add the balsamic vinegar, and cook, covered for 2 minutes. Return the grouse to the pan, and simmer until fully cooked, 3 to 5 minutes.

RED CHINESE BARBEQUE COOKED BOAR (OR BEAR) Serves 4 to 6.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 3 hours, less for domestic pork 2 pounds pork, wild boar or bear belly 2 tablespoons peanut oil or lard 2 tablespoons sugar 1/3 cup Chinese cooking wine A 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced thin 3 star anise pods 4 dried hot chiles 1 small piece of cinnamon 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 cups Chinese stock, chicken stock or water 5 scallions, sliced into 1-inch pieces 1/3 cup chopped cilantro 8 to 10 cloves garlic

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt it well, then boil the whole slab of pork/boar/bear belly for five minutes. Remove from the water and put on a cutting board to cool. Cut the meat into largish cubes of about two inches across.

In a wok, heat the oil and sugar over medium heat until the sugar melts and begins to turn brown, about 10 minutes or so.

Add the par-cooked pork belly and turn to coat with the sugar-oil mixture. Add the Chinese cooking wine and stir.

Pour in enough Chinese stock, chicken stock or cooking water to almost cover the meat, and add the star anise, ginger, chiles and cinnamon. Cover and simmer gently over mediumto-low heat, until the meat is tender. For a wild boar or bear this could take up to three hours. Check after two hours.

Once the meat is getting tender – but not quite ready – add the soy sauce and taste the stock. Add a little sugar if you want.

The stock should be a little sweet. Recover and cook until the pork is practically falling apart. Remove the meat and set aside.

Turn the heat up on the sauce to reduce it. When the stock has reduced to a sauce consistency, return the meat to the pot and add the garlic, if using. Add the scallions and cilantro and serve at once with steamed rice.

BUTTERMILK FRIED RABBIT Brine the rabbits in a simple brine of 1/4 cup kosher salt to 4 cups water.

Submerge your bunny in this brine for up to 12 hours. As a general rule, 1 domestic rabbit will serve 2-3, as will a jackrabbit. A snowshoe hare will serve 2, a cottontail about 1 1/2, and a squirrel just one.

Serves 4 Prep Time: 8 hours Cook Time: 45 minutes

29

Mix the buttermilk with the all the spices except the teaspoon of salt and the flour. Coat the rabbit with the mixture and set in a covered container overnight, or at least 8 hours.

When you are ready to fry, pour the oil into a large pan — a big cast iron frying pan is ideal — and heat over medium-high heat. The general idea is you want the oil to come halfway up the side of the rabbit.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

2 domestic rabbits or 3 cottontails 2 cups buttermilk 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning, or 1/2 cup of mixed chopped fresh herbs like oregano, thyme and parsley 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon garlic powder 2 teaspoons cayenne 2 cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups vegetable oil

Meanwhile, take the rabbit out of the buttermilk and let it drain in a colander. Don’t shake off the buttermilk or anything, just leave it there.

Let the oil heat until it is about 325 degrees; this is the point where a sprinkle of flour will immediately sizzle. Do not let the oil smoke!

When the oil is hot, pour the flour and salt into a plastic bag and shake to combine. Put a few pieces of rabbit into the bad and shake to get it coated in flour.

Fry for 12-15 minutes. Fry gently — you want a steady sizzle, but nothing raging, and you definitely don’t want the rabbit to just sit in oil. You might need to adjust the heat a bit.

Turn the rabbit pieces and fry for another 10-12 minutes.

The belly flap pieces and the forelegs will come out first, followed by the loin, and the hind legs will come out last.

You will probably need to fry in batches, so just leave the rabbit pieces in the colander until you are ready to flour them up and fry them. Don’t let the floured pieces sit.

When the rabbit is good and fried, let them rest on a rack set over a paper towel to drain away any excess oil.Serve hot or at room temperature.

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MS

Going the distance for STORY AN D PHOTOS BY RICHARD R EED

L

BRIAN ROSS - TREAD SETTER This was my third year riding the MS150 and my second year as a Tread Setter in which I raised a little over $1,300 last year. The Tread Setters as a whole raised over $120,000 last year. To be a Tread Setter you have to be in the top 50 of the fundraisers.

I ride the MS150 because I have several friends with MS and I see how it affects their lives. Some days are a struggle for them, and I would like to help in any way I can. All monies raised go toward the care of several thousand here in the four states that have MS, providing care and medicine while also supporting research for a cure.

Each year’s ride has been different and unique in its own way. I enjoy watching so many come together to ride for a cause and spending the weekend with friends who enjoy riding as much as I do. Sometimes it’s hard to get on that bike and make the return trip but then you realize that those with MS face bigger struggles than that on a daily basis, and you just have to suck it up and continue on.

31

DAWNATA HOPKINS - TREAD SETTER I participate for a couple of reasons: One, I am goal oriented so when I started riding friends shared with me this event and I started to train, which ultimately helps me keep my weight down. Two, after the first year and hearing what individuals with MS deal with, the realization hit me that it wasn’t about the ride so much as it was about doing something I 鄭 passionate about to help find a cure. I started visiting more with people I knew who had

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

ET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT; ON Saturday morning, you’re going to get up at around 4 a.m., drive to Clever, Mo., ride your bike 100 miles to Joplin? Then the next day, ride another 100 miles back?

Exactly!

It wasn’t long ago that I would have thought this to be a crazy notion, but every fall thousands of cyclists from beginner to elite riders, all to raise money for The National Multiple Sclerosis Society in search of 鄭 World Free from MS. I ride for the challenge, and I ride to make a difference for others. I have had the pleasure of participating in the Bike MS Ozark Chapter for the past four years as a member of the Flat Tire Gang. Our team had about 10 members riding this year, some with notable contributions to the cause.

32

OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

MS, learned about their struggles, what their families endure and the time it takes for them to do simple tasks.

This motivated me to help raise funds and also made me want to go the longest distance as a way to honor those who suffer. A friend reminded me as I was complaining of the next upcoming hill why we ride this last weekend. It was a sobering reminder and put into perspective that those living with MS have to persevere as they have no choice. At any time I could stop, get off my bike and go home. Riding 100 miles each day for two days is nothing compared to what an individual living with MS goes through. It’s my privilege to be able to ride for those inflicted!

DONDI BASS - DECADE LONG RIDER FOR BIKE MS Initially I started riding for fun with my friends and for the exercise. Then ironically about five years ago my oldest brother was diagnosed with MS. 鄭iding for the cause took on a whole new meaning. I also found out that one of my classmates also has MS. Seems like every year, I learn of more people I know with the affliction.

Most memorable, a few things come to mind. First and foremost, the people with MS waiting at the finish line, out in any kind of weather to thank YOU for riding!! All I can say is, it’s the least I can do and it is truly my pleasure! Also, all my cycling friends this cause has brought into my life. They are not just friends, they are family that I hold near and dear in my heart. Even though several have come and gone, it’s a bond that will never be broken.

Lastly, I’m a little bit competitive, Phyllis Garrett, from my hometown, has ridden 20 years, so all I can say is, I’m half way there! And then of course, I will have to do just one more!

TREAD SETTERS CLUB The Tread Setters are an elite group of cyclists made up of the top fundraisers from each Bike MS event that the Mid America Chapter hosts. The top fundraiser status is based on participants’ fundraising in the previous year.

The Tread Setters Club was created to fuel the continuous growth of our top fundraisers over the years while adding in some friendly competition. Those that continue to push the fundraising bar year after year are rewarded to keep the competition going.

Ozarks: The top 50 fundraisers from 2013 will make up the 2014 Tread Setter 50 Club

If you would like to join the cause, now is the time to start getting ready for next year. Each rider pays a registration fee and raises a minimum of $200 in order to participate. You’ve got a year to get ready, so get on your bike and ride!

For more information on how you can make a difference visit www.bikems. org online.

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The second, and most important moment that I’m left with, is the finish line.

I completely agree with my friend Dondi.

Your body aches, you’re probably hungry and thirsty, and as you roll to a stop there sits a fellow human being in a wheelchair, there to greet you, and to say Thank You. I don’t know what it’s like to have MS, but in that moment, all of my suffering and complaining over what seemed like endless miles melts away. It really is our privilege, and we thank you for the opportunity to contribute.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

There are two things that always really stick out for me each year. The first is there is always a moment as the start of the second day when my body strenuously objects to my sitting down on that seat again. We鄭e ridden when it was pretty chilly, ridden when it was really warm, and even ridden a full day in the pouring rain, but that second day, my body initially rejects the idea of doing it all again. But the camaraderie of friends, and getting the blood pumping as you push those pedals soon silence that objection.

“MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS) is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. The cause of MS is still unknown – scientists believe the disease is triggered by as-yet-unidentified environmental factor(s) in a person who is genetically predisposed to respond.”

- National MS Society

takeyourpic In each issue of Ozarks Outdoors, we want to feature nature photographs taken and submitted by our readers. To submit nature photos for our next edition of Ozarks Outdoors, send your high resolution images to thorntonlives@gmail.com.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

BUTTERFLY ON FALL LEAVES. PHOTO BY ROB LOTUFO, OF EXETER, MISSOURI.

ONE OF THE BEAUTIFUL TREES SHOWING IT’S FALL GLORY AT THE SOUTH PARK IN MONETT. PHOTO TAKEN BY BILL VINCENT, OF MONETT, MISSOURI.

FALL HIKING AT THE NATIONAL MILITARY PARK IN PEA RIDGE. PHOTO BY ALICE LEVERICH, OF EXETER, MISOURI.

FALL LEAVES ON A PATH IN SARCOXIE, MO. PHOTO TAKEN BY BILL VINCENT, OF MONETT, MISSOURI.

FALL 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS

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MERAMEC CAVERNS BARN NEAR PIERCE CITY. PHOTOGRAPHER, JERRY DEAN, OF CASSVILLE, MISOURI.

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OZARKS OUTDOORS FALL 2014

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