FREE
WINTER 2014
BLACK BEARS
Get up. Get out. Get going.
Making a comeback 28
Plus:
A STROLL THROUGH
WILDCAT GLADES 24
FROZEN ROAD BIKERS 16
TURNING FURS AND FEATHERS INTO FAITH 6
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fly fishing 10
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
FOR THE LOVE OF
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
welcome an introduction to ozarks outdoors’ new editor
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now that you have an idea as to who i am, let me share my goals for ozarks outdoors. i worked as a freelance photographer and writer for the magazine before taking the mantle of editor. I fell in love with the publication because first, i am outdoorsman and second, because i’m a journalist. The current staff of writers and photographers seems to share my passion for getting outdoors in some form or another, and i look forward to continuing to work with them. I am also looking to bring on more talent with diverse interests to provide our readers with the most expansive coverage of what is available in the ozarks. not only will we continue to cover hunting, fishing and biking, we will look for new ways to get people outside as well as providing features on businesses and people of interest to those of us who love the outdoors. as we transition from 2013 to 2014, ozarks outdoors is transitioning as well. during this transition we hope you like the new changes, and we want to hear from you if you do, and even if you do not. ultimately this publication is for our readers. so feel free to send a letter or email and tell us how we are doing, what you would like to see, or just say hello.
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Thanks for reading and God bless, Joshua Boley boley556@gmail.com
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
have debated how to write this first introduction since the moment I signed on to be the editor for Ozarks Outdoors. So much relies on first impressions. ultimately, i decided to keep it simple and tell you briefly about myself and then my hopes for this publication. i am a native of cassville, missouri, and have a teenage daughter that means the world to me. I spent 15 years as a draftsman before deciding to go back to school. i currently have my associate’s degree from crowder college in public relations and journalism. This may, if all goes well, i am scheduled to graduate from missouri southern state university with my bachelor’s degree in mass communication and a minor in speech communication. i served in the united states marine corps and in some ways that made me the outdoorsman that i am today. i fish on occasion and enjoy hunting whitetail in addition to hiking and nature photography.
outdoors Get up. Get out. Get going.
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WINTER 2014
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EDITOR Joshua Boley boley556@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Veronica Zucca connection@monett-times.com
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
ADVERTISING Sheila Harris Marion Chrysler Lindsey Hall Jim Sexton Diane Newcomb CONTRIBUTORS Melonie Roberts Sheila Harris Lee Stubblefield Mark Conner Jennifer Conner Richard Reed Jared Lankford PHOTOGRAPHERS Charles Henry Ford II Chuck Nickle Kerry Hays Jeff Terry
INSIDE To advertise: 417-847-2610 - cassville 417-235-3135 - monett 870-423-6636 - berryville 479-253-0070 - eureka springs send e-mail inquiries to boley556@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.
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TURNING FURS AND FEATHERS INTO FAITH
10
FOR THE LOVE OF FLY FISHING
14
ALL-SEASONS RUNNER Cold weather running
16
FROZEN ROAD BIKERS
21
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BOYS AND GIRLS
22
COOL STUFF GEAR GUIDE
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OFF THE BEATEN PATH Wildcat Glades
28
BLACK BEARS MAKING A COMEBACK
32
TAKE YOUR PIC
On the cover: Regina Leitle is casting her flyrod over the White River. She, along with Carolyn Parker, offer guide services through River Run Outfitters in Branson, Missouri. Photo by Kerry Hays
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WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
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TURNING FURS AND FEATHERS INTO FAITH STORY AND PHOTO S BY JOS HUA BO LEY
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
MANY OUTDOORSMEN SAY THEY FEEL CLOSEST TO GOD WHEN THEY ARE IN THE WOODS OR ON THE LAKE. MAYBE IT’S BECAUSE OF BEING SO CLOSE TO NATURE OR BEING AWAY FROM THE RUCKUS OF CIVILIZATION. FOR RUSS PENDERGRAFT, A TAXIDERMY STUDIO MAY HAVE PROVIDED A PLACE FOR HIM TO SPEND TIME WITH GOD. Russ owns and operates Visions of Wildlife Taxidermy Studio in Cassville, Mo. Although he has only had the business for eight years, Russ said he has been interested in taxidermy since he was 9 years old. “My granddad, who is 82, has three deer mounted in his house from the 70s … when I went over there to see him as a kid, it was like a wonderland,” Russ said. “I was just amazed with walls and walls of birds hanging from the ceiling that were mounted and deer and bobcats, coyotes and fish.” Prior to opening his own taxidermy studio, Russ attended the Missouri Taxidermy Institute where he learned how to mount game heads, life-size animals, birds and fish. “The first piece I did as a business was a deer mount for Phillip Cooper,” Russ said. “It was his first bow kill, and he still has it and is very proud of that little forked horn deer.”
Russ explained that Visions of Wildlife will always be a part of his life, however, recently he has taken a new path, and as I asked him about this new direction, Russ told me he got what he calls “Jesus bumps” all over him. “I gave my life to Christ in 1996 and when I did that, like a lot people, I thought that is all you had to do,” Russ said. “I did what I wanted to do, which was open this business, and as I sat down here, there was a calling on my heart and I fought it and suppressed it for quite a while.” While attending a revival one evening, Russ said an evangelist approached him and told him he was supposed to be in Christian ministry. The evangelist said soon Russ would wake in the night and start writing down messages with a pen and paper. “Don’t take this the wrong way but the term whack-job came to mind when I
This bass helped Russ pick up The besT RepRoducTion fish aT The oklahoma TaxideRmy associaTion in 2009 as well as besT mounT aT The aRkansas TaxideRmy associaTion in 2009.
RUSS INSPECTS The deeR mounT ThaT will laTeR be a compleTe whiTeTail mounT foR someone’s home oR office.
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
heard this because I never heard anyone be so specific about something in regards to Christ.” Russ said. According to Russ, his two daughters were with him that night and when they returned home they handed him a notepad and pen and told him this is what the pastor said he needed to put beside his bed. Russ sat them on his nightstand and every morning for a week his daughters would look to see if he had written anything. “They came in there one morning, and I didn’t even realize what I had written,” Russ said. “When they came in there and looked it was amazing and would become the first message I would ever give to anybody. That is when I knew I wasn’t supposed to be living my life for me but for God.” Russ said that incident along with lots of prayer and his good friend Travis Fisher, pastor at Realife Worship Center, helped lead him in the right direction.
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“I remember sitting down with him and just going over the process of stepping out on faith and really deciding to give up an income and go into ministry.” Travis said. Russ decided to take classes in addiction counseling at Crowder College because at the time it was the only counseling classes they offered, and he believed a pastor is also a counselor. “While I was in those classes I was offered the opportunity to speak at the Joplin Christian Business Owners Association,” Russ said. “I went there one Saturday morning figuring there would be like 10 to 15 people there and there was like 200.” Russ “I KNEW I WASN’T said he gave some of his SUPPOSED TO BE testimony LIVING MY LIFE FOR and a brief message. ME, BUT FOR GOD” Afterward an elderly lady approached him and told him that he must have a heavy calling on his heart because she learned something from him that day. Since then Russ went on to Liberty University and received his bachelor’s degree in Christian ministry. Currently Russ attends Realife Worship Center with his family and is the parts manager at Country Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Cassville. Russ said he is not sure what the next step is. He has been offered a scholarship to Masters of Divinity College where he would persue his master’s degree, but said he is taking time to pray with family before making a decision. “I am not saying I won’t go back to school, but I have learned to wait and not make irrational decisions,” Russ said. Travis said he has known Russ for eight years and since making the decision to follow God, he said Russ has become more patient and his relationship with his family has improved. “Russ is on the exterior a rough military personality, but underneath that he loves God and cares about people and wants to see the best for people,” Travis said.
Since taking the path of ministry, Russ has limited the number of pieces he takes in at the taxidermy studio. According to him, taxidermy has become more of a hobby. Russ believes that limiting the pieces he takes in allows him to spend more time on each piece to provide better quality in addition to giving him more time with his family. Russ said that he would love to sit
down with anyone who does not know God in a personal way, either at church, at a ball game or even at his studio or home. “I may not be the richest man monetarily, but I am at a point in my life that I am happier than I have ever been,” Russ and Visions of Wildlife Taxidermy Studio can be reached by calling 417-342-1227.
Russ deliveRs The announcemenTs foR The congRegaTion of Realife woRship cenTeR in cassville, missouRi.
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WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
The Style You Want
FOR THE LOVE OF f
10 10 OZARKS OZARKSOUTDOORS OUTDOORSWINTER WINTER2014 2014
STORY BY SHEILA HARRIS | PHOTO S BY K ER R Y H AY S
F fly fishing A brisk March morning this past spring found me standing in the middle of the White River attired in full-length waders, involved in an activity entirely new to me: fly fishing. With a little persistence, and the expert assistance of guides Regina Leitle and Carolyn Parker, of River Run Outfitters near Branson, I was soon landing trout as if I’d been doing it for years. According to my photographer Kerry Hays, a fly-fisherman himself and assistant superintendent at Roaring River State Park, I would not have fared so well if my guides had not been so experienced.
Regina leiTle
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Regina. “With fly fishing, you’re always thinking about which fly to use as bait, what color, what size and how to best present it to the fish.” Regina took up fly fishing as a serious hobby in 2000, and honed her skills by enrolling in numerous outdoor classes and fly tying clinics over the following years. As a frequent customer of River Run Outfitters in Branson, one of her favorite sources for fishing supplies and guide trips, she became well acquainted with owners Stan and Carolyn Parker. After plans to attend a fly fishing guide school, offered by Reel Women Outfitters in Wyoming fell through, Regina decided to look for opportunities closer to home. Uncertain of their response, Regina approached the Parkers about the possibility of teaching her how to row a drift boat and become a guide herself. When they gladly took her under their wing, Regina soon bought a drift boat of her own and has been happily offering her guide services through River Run Outfitters since 2006.
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
“They knew right where the fish would be biting,” stated Kerry, “and they had the foresight to ask another fisherman what kind of fly he’d been using for the trout he caught. There are lots of variables with fly fishing, and these ladies know what they’re doing.” As a much younger woman, I wrote fishing off as a sport, believing it to be a bit too tame for my hyperactive tendencies. However, I soon discovered that fly fishing falls into a category of its own. No tame sport this is. Requiring both skill and concentration, the constant activity and thrill of the hunt involved with fly fishing can hook you faster than a fish can grab your fly. Pair this with the incomparable serenity experienced on a scenic Ozarks waterway, and fly fishing may become your second life. This sentiment is echoed by Regina Leitle, of Leitle Auto Supply in Aurora, who leaves her desk job every chance she gets and heads to Lake Taneycomo to fish. “Fly fishing is a totally involving sport,” declared
Carolyn Parker and her husband, Stan, started fly fishing Taneycomo in the mid-60s. By then, they knew it was where they were going to retire. After their official retirement in 1997, Branson became their new home. A couple of years later, they started River Run Outfitters from bare walls and their fly fishing passion became a business. They now offer a full line of fly fishing equipment from manufacturers including Orvis, Winston, Simms, Temple Fork and many others. They also offer one of the better selections of fly tying materials in the area. As an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing outfitter, River Run Outfitters won the prestigious national title of “OrvisEndorsed Outfitter of the Year” for 2006. dispiTe being a novice aT The spoRT, The ladies aT RiveR Run ouTfiTTeRs had me landing fish by THE END OF OUR OUTING.
“Fly fishing is a totally involving sport, you’re always thinking about which fly to use as bait, what color, what size and how to best present it to the fish.”
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-- RegInA LeItLe
Along with full-day and half-day guided fishing trips, River Run Outfitters boasts guides with extensive knowledge of the sport, well qualified to provide you with a memorable fishing experience. In addition to Regina and Carolyn, four other guides are also available. Potential fishermen and women need have no prior fishing experience to qualify for a guided fly fishing trip. For the guides, part of the reward of their jobs comes from teaching beginners the love of the sport.
“Most of our guided fly fishing trips are with people who come to Branson on vacation, people who have always wanted to learn to fly fish. It’s a bucket list type of thing. We provide all of the supplies they’ll need and take them out on the river and show them how it’s done,” explained Carolyn. “We get all kinds of people. Some of them take it up as a hobby, but with many it’s just a one-time outing.”
“My first trip as a guide was with a grandfather and grandson,” stated Gina Leitle. “Although I was a little nervous at first, it turned out to be a wonderful experience for me, and hopefully, for the guys, too.” “Like anything you get into, equipment can be from fairly inexpensive to quite costly. You don’t have to invest an “arm and a leg” to get started, but in many cases, you get what you
pay for. A good fly fishing rod can be quite costly, depending on the type of material its made of,” declared Carolyn, “so a guided trip is a great way to find out if you like fly fishing before investing in a rod of your own. A lot of people fall so deeply in love with the sport that, after a guided trip, they come directly into the shop to buy their own fishing gear.” In addition to guided fishing trips, River Run Outfitters also offers clinics. River Run also offers two-day schools with special pricing for couples of $475 per couple. During the winter months, usually beginning in December, River Run Outfitters will begin offering free weekly fly-tying clinics on Saturdays. “We like to give people a chance to stay involved in the sport when the weather’s too cold to get out on the water,” stated Carolyn. To schedule your guided fishing trip, or to attend fly fishing class, contact River Run Outfitters at 417-3320460. Information can also be obtained online at www. riverrunoutfitters.com. River
River Runners Women’s’ Fly Fishing Club Five years ago, Carolyn Parker and Regina Leitle began a club for women who love to fly fish. Most of the members are from the fourstate area, although a few live in other parts of country.
caRolyn paRkeR
Run Outfitters is located at 2626 State Hwy. 165, Branson. They are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. 5:30 p.m.
Gift certificates for all of River Run Outfitters’ products and services are also available and make a unique present for that person who is hard to buy for.
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The club meets four times a year to do what they love best: fish. They gather at various state parks, or other fishing locations throughout the area, do lots of fishing, and then break for a nice dinner on Saturday evening. Early spring found them on the banks of Roaring River near Cassville, and most recently they gathered in Eureka Springs. An upcoming event is planned in Branson for November. “It’s all about fly fishing and spending time with other women who love the sport,” declared member Regina Leitle, “but mostly about having fun and making new friends.” The club has about 100 members, although usually only 12 to 25 at a time are in attendance at the fly fishing gatherings. Anyone interested in fly fishing is welcome to join. For more information, contact Carolyn Parker at River Run Outfitters at 417-332-0460.
COLD WEATHER RUNNING
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M
y introduction to cold weather running was harsh. A freshman at St. Joseph’s Catholic in Fayetteville, Ark., I was slated to run the half mile at the Berryville Bobcat Relays. A late cold front crept in that afternoon, and the temps dipped into the 20s as the meet unfolded. My coach, Paul Reagan, dragged me back to the locker room and thrust a package into my hands. “Put these on,” he barked. “You’ll run faster.” I opened the bag to find a pair of pantyhose. To this day, I have no idea how Paul came to have a pair of nylons in his possession. But whether it was extreme coaching preparation - or hanging onto a prized trophy - his idea worked. Despite the jeers and catcalls from the crowd, I pulled steadily away from the field and won the race. The year was 1971. Almost half a century later, cold weather gear for runners is big business. Every major sports apparel company has a line of clothing designed to (1) keep you warm and comfortable on an outdoors winter run, and (2) separate you from your money.
Good quality running gear is not cheap. Plus, no two people seem to agree on what is necessary for a run in arctic conditions. Many factors are involved in selecting the proper gear. The first step in gear selection is a brutally honest self-assessment. What is your body type? People with a higher fat index generate and maintain a higher core temp during a run than the skeletal elite runners. Medical issues like diabetes and Raynaud’s Syndrome may affect circulation, resulting in greater discomfort during cold weather exercise. Long hair, thinning hair, or a bare scalp affects how much heat is lost during a run. Then there’s the difference in tolerance levels between runners. Some folks are just wimps when it comes to cold weather. I am definitely in that category. Cold weather running gear can generally be grouped into six categories: hats, gloves/mittens, tops, bottoms, socks, and shoes. Many people greatly increase their comfort level just by addressing one or two of their most-affected areas. Generally speaking, you will be safe and comfortable if you can keep your ears, hands, and feet at a reasonable temperature during a run.
BY L EE S T UB B L E FI E L D
HATS The clothing item in which most people overdress is hats. Those bulky, rolled stocking hats look and feel okay, but may hold in too much heat. Unless it is very windy, or below 20 degrees, an ear band or a light cap with ear protection is a better choice.
About the author: lee stubblefield, who currently lives in cassville, missouri, was an all-state half miler and state champion cross country runner for fayetteville (arkansas) high school. he led the bulldogs to their fifth consecutive state team cross country title in 1973, and ran collegiately for henderson state university and John brown university. stubblefield served as head track and cross country coach for southwest high school in washburn, missouri, from 1999-2009, and 2012. his Trojans won the mshsaa class 1 cross country title in 2000 - the only state championship in any mshsaa sport in the history of the school. his southwest track teams won the ozark 7 Track and field championships in 2007-2009 and in 2012. stubblefield is an accomplished masters road racer, with a best marathon time of 3:17:54 at the 1999 oklahoma marathon. he holds missouri state age group and single-age records for 25k (1:47:50), 50k (4:23:44), and 50 miles (8:38:31).
Sometimes in windless conditions, a light coating of Vaseline or Ben-gay provides enough ear protection during a run. If it is so cold that you need a full face mask to ward off frostbite, you probably should not be running.
GLOVES/MITTENS Hands are my problem area, and I hear more complaints from other runners about freezing fingers than any other body part. Most runners wear gloves that are not designed for running, with predictably poor results. Even those pricey gloves from the running apparel companies often fail to protect. My best hands advice is to use light mittens with hand-warmers tucked into them. Hunters know how effective those little tea bags filled with chemicals can be. I guess runners have a slower learning curve, because I still don’t see too many handwarmers in use during runs or races.
SOCKS AND SHOES
Once you move into the real clothing area, you see a vast assortment of both items and combinations. Many runners wear long sleeves yet go bare legged during a run. The thinking there is that your leg muscles generate more heat because they are doing all the work. I disagree with that thinking, because I believe your core everything from your neck to your legs - is better able to maintain temperature. This would explain those folks who wear tights, short sleeves, and gloves. Or maybe they are just weird. There are also many different types and thicknesses of materials in tops and tights. The only way to find out what is best for you is to experiment with different combinations of items and layers in practice. Practice is the place for guesswork and innovation, not a race. From an aesthetics point of view, it is considered poor form to wear tights only during a race. Tights are a base layer... slip a pair of shorts on over them. Small children should not be scarred for life from watching some plum smuggler struggle to the finish line.
Socks for runners have come a long way, baby. Those wonderful blends of wool are much more able to maintain heat without adding bulk than the socks of previous generations. Toe socks don’t cut it in cold weather, as most of us need that “shared warmth” experience of an ordinary sock. Those with circulation problems still suffer with cold feet though. You can’t comfortably tuck hand-warmers in your shoes or socks, so you are always fighting a losing battle with decreasing temps in your lower extremities. What to do? I tried rubbing heating cream on my feet. The best experience was with the 2 percent capsaicin cream. However, you have to be very careful with this stuff. Capsaicin is the active ingredient in bear spray. If you get it on your fingers and inadvertently rub your eyes or other sensitive areas, your run will stop almost immediately. Don’t be a bear! Most running shoes have a mesh material for the upper to save weight and provide a better fit. But mesh provides little or no protection and allows cold and wind to drain heat from your feet and toes. There
are shoes with more solid upper materials to keep out the direct cold. I have seen runners who cover the toe area of their shoes with duct tape for a wind block. The old school approach to solving the mesh shoe problem is to pull a bread sack or a plastic newspaper sleeve over your socks. Trim the excess away after you lace up your shoes and nobody will recognize how big a cheapskate you are. The important thing is, it works.
CONCLUSION The business of running has come a long way from the days of cotton sweat pants and hoodies. Spend a little more and get some quality items to enhance your running experience. Always remember that safety is the main priority. No matter how good the gear, there are some days when you just shouldn’t be out there. When that blizzard is howling outside, go to the gym or adjust your running calendar for a day off. I have always maintained that winter running is better than summer because you can always put on more clothes, but you can only take off so many. Stay warm.
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
TOPS AND BOTTOMS
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
BY RICHARD R EED
IT’S SATURDAY, 7 A.M., TWO DAYS BEFORE NEW YEAR’S EVE DEC. 2012. THE TEMPERATURE OUTSIDE IS A BRISK 21 DEGREES. IT’S THE PERFECT DAY FOR A BIKE RIDE IN SOUTHWEST MISSOURI!
Not what you were thinking? For most this seems torturous if not an insane idea, but I assure you this just what we did that morning. Millions of people on the planet ride bicycles, but most wouldn’t choose to ride in sub-freezing temperatures. However, with some additional gear and planning, riding your bike can be a year round activity. The group that I ride with ride road bikes, so we cruise along at anywhere from 10-30 miles per hour depending on surface and terrain. Add even a small amount of wind and you can imagine the wind chill that we feel. Layering clothing and avoid exposing any skin to the elements helps to keep us comfortable in an environment most would find unbearable. It does take some time to get everything on, so generally I wouldn’t plan a ride in the cold unless I was planning on riding at least an hour or more. Many of these layers overlap each other so that I end up with at least two layers, and in most cases three, of clothing between my skin and the freezing air outside.
The day’s plan was to ride from a friend’s house north of Monett, northeast to a coffee shop a couple of towns away. We often enjoy having some kind of stopping place in the middle of a ride. In the winter, it’s almost a requirement. After riding through the freezing cold, it’s so nice to walk into a cozy place where they serve you hot beverages. The first couple of miles are always the most difficult for a number of reasons. First, I’ve just left a warm house for the freezing outdoors. I’ve had my layers on for some time so I am already sweating. The cool breeze chilled the sweat and sends a shiver down my spine. Our muscles aren’t warm yet or ready to do any hard pedaling. As the trek began, with increased speed, we could feel the piercing cold of the air as it hit the tiny fraction of skin that was visible around our glasses. We could feel a little chill on your legs, but knew it wouldn’t last long. As we hit the first little hills, standing up a bit for the push to the top, the blood flow increases to our legs and we start to
R
BASE LAYER
OUTER LAYER CyCLIng gLASSeS
POLy-BLend undeRSHIRt
BALAKLAvA (SKI MASK)
CyCLIng JeRSey SHeLL JACKet ReMOvABLe tHeRMAL SLeeveS
HeAvy gLOveS
CyCLIng BIB SHORtS tHeRMAL tIgHtS
warm up. At the top of the hill the chill has been replaced by a slight lactic burn in our upper thighs. We are all sweating from exertion, but it’s a warm sweat. Our level of exertion changed with the terrain. Sometimes hard up a hill, sometimes coasting down the other side. Within a few miles most of the dread that we felt before the ride melted away as we settled in for the miles ahead.
THERE IS SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT ABOUT RIDING IN COLD TEMPERATURES. THE AIR IS BRISK AND FEELS CLEAN. THE LANDSCAPE IS STARK WITH BARREN TREES REVEALING SIGHTS THAT YOU MISSED DURING THE WARM MONTHS OF THE YEAR. Dogs seem much more content with staying wrapped up on their porch than chasing you down the road. Cars and trucks seem to pass you with more caution, looking at you as if they can’t quite understand what they are seeing. Occasionally, we get blasted with a 10 to 12 mile an hour head wind. The beads of sweat drip from our brows creating and instant flash freeze. There’s a momentary chill, but nothing that isn’t well buffeted by the blood pumping through our bodies that
Leg WARMeRS
CyCLIng BOOtS WItH CLeAtS
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HeAvy WOOL SOCKS
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
CHARCOAL FOOt WARMeRS
TIPS FOR COLD WEATHER RIDING 1. DRESS IN LAYERS. 2. PLAN YOUR ROUTE AHEAD. Let someone know that route, and make sure at least a couple of people are carrying cell phones. 3. SHOULD YOU NEED TO CALL FOR ASSISTANCE, FIND A PLACE INSIDE TO WAIT. If that’s not available, give your emergency driver instructions on how to find you and let them know that you will be walking toward them. Keep moving to help you stay warm. 4. DON’T RIDE WHEN THERE IS ICE ON THE ROAD.
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
5. MAKE SURE AND HYDRATE. Because it’s cold out, you won’t get the same signals from your body telling you to drink water. However, when it’s cold, even if you don’t feel it, you are sweating and need hydration. In addition to the water that you lose through sweat, your body needs fuel and water to help keep you warm.
comes with hard exercise. In no time at all we are making the turn for the last stretch of the first half of our ride. After about 45 minutes, we come to our destination. It’s time for coffee and scones. As the interior warmth first hit me, I realized not only was I comfortable in these sub-freezing temperatures, but that it’s going to be way to hot if I don’t shed some clothes. Believe it or not, underneath my jacket, I am sweating just like I would be on any other fair weather bike ride. We take off our gloves and outer layers to give our under layers a chance to breathe. After ordering and settling down to our table, invariably we have to take some time to field all of the questions from those around us. Why are you out in this weather? Where did you ride from? How do you stay warm? These are all common questions that are generally followed by explanations as to why they could never
do it. I always find that particularly funny because it’s not like we’re asking anyone else to ride with us. On another ride that we recently did, a man and presumably his son never asked us a question but rather sat and stared at us the whole time we were there. With questions answered and the other patrons now settling back to their mugs, we sit and relax. This is a time for us to reflect on the goings on of the week before. It’s a time to chit chat and unwind, and a chance to communicate anything that we may have missed on the ride over. After a while, dictated by either someone’s schedule, or a dwindling conversation, we pack up our things and prepare for the ride home. Going back means going through the whole process again. After a much needed bathroom break, we all suit up again, pull on our gloves and head back out into the cold. The first few miles back are even more difficult than the first start. Now in addition to your legs being cold, and the cold wind hitting you, you now have some muscle fatigue from the ride up. Once you’ve warmed back up, it’s smooth sailing back home. Sometimes we take another route, but it seems like more often than not, the ride back is usually the most direct route. Getting home means peeling off all of your gear and jumping into a nice warm bath. I don’t know about my riding buddies, but this is a great recipe for a nap. Someone once said something to the effect of, “If something is easy, then it’s not worth doing.” Riding your bike for much distance in the winter takes some planning. It’s certainly not easy, but absolutely worth doing. It’s a whole different experience than riding when it’s warm.
About the author: Richard Reed is an avid amateur cyclist logging 6,000-plus miles a year on his road bike. several years ago, a mid-life change had him move from total couch potato to major fitness advocate. he is an afaa-certified group fitness instructor and mad dogg-certified spinning instructor who currently works as an instructor for cox monett hospital’s spinning program at the monett ymca.
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The difference between boys and girls BY GR EG G I L M OR E
About the author: greg gilmore is a certified athletic trainer and athletic training services coordinator at cox monett Rehab and sports medicine. The busy father of four has worked for coxhealth for six years. in his spare time, he enjoys spending time at his kids’ activities and being involved in many different outdoor pursuits.
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This area, commonly referred to as the “posterior chain,” is kind of a big deal because the gluteal (butt) muscles should be among the strongest in your body. They should be involved in running, jumping, squatting and lunging. Having been around sports for more than five minutes, I have concluded that these are important activities to almost every sport. And those of you with active teenage daughters have seen girls who have weak posterior chains—they jump up and land knock-kneed. Practice and strength training are important. However, so is emphasis on proper technique. Reinforcing good technique will help prevent injury and prolong longevity. Young women are especially susceptible to poor technique due to a lack of strength. Talking to a professional, coach, healthcare provider or other experts can help to extend the career of your young athlete. The earlier you emphasize good habits and techniques, the less likely an athlete is to suffer from injuries.
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
inter is typically a time for people to reflect, begin new hobbies, and take on new challenges. As you adopt new challenges, form new resolutions or just get back into the grind, it is important for active people to know that boys and girls are different. I know, I know, that comes as a complete surprise to most of you, but it is true. While both are human beings, their bodies grow and change at very different times. And, while many movements required to play sports do transfer among male and female sports, you can’t assume that you train a female athlete the same as a male athlete. Practice, and subsequently strength training and conditioning, are basically meant to allow for the forming of habit. Good habits are formed and reinforced with repetition. So, while practice and training can be good, repetition of bad habits or technique can lead to injury. Did you know that most young women ages 11-18 stagnate in the development of their hamstrings and gluteal muscles?
f f u t s l o o c
tHe ARROWHeAd uLtRAdRy PeRFORMAnCe BOOt Many of us refuse to let winter keep us from getting outdoors and vasque understands that. the Arrowhead ultradry™ is an 8” winter performance boot. this boot boasts thinsulate insulation, and a zip-close cover to prevent ice and water from seeping into the gussets or the single pull Kevlar® lace system. the boots weigh about 2 pounds and cost $170. http://www.vasque.com/vasque-shoe/7822-vasque/7822-vasquemens-arrowhead-ultradry%E2%84%A2-rooibostea-magnet
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
gOAL ZeRO yetI 150 SOLAR geneRAtOR goal Zero may have fixed the problem of mobile power for all the devices we like to take on the trail or camping with us. their yeti 150 solar generator will charge a smartphone 15 times and a tablet six times. the yeti 150 weighs 12 pounds and is 7.75 x 5.75 x 6.75 in. the yeti itself can be charged via a wall socket before heading out, or via one of goal Zero’s nomad solar panels. this little piece of gear will set you back about $200. https://www.goalzero.com/ecommerce/product.i?pid=164
RAge HyPOdeRMIC BROAdHeAd the people at Rage have introduced their new Hypodermic broadhead. the design allows the broadhead to benefit from the aerodynamics of a leading edge blade but delivers what Rage calls a bone-crushing performance from their chisel tip. the blades are .035” stainless steel and can be replaced. Rage has the Hypodermics for sale on their website from about $50 each. http://www.ragebroadheads.com/products/hypodermic.html#.UsyLi7QljXo
SnOWFLAKe CHAInRIng FROM WOLF tOOtH COMPOnentS Looking to give your bike a little winter flare? Check out the snowflake chainring from Wolf tooth Components. the chainring is intended for 190 mm hub fat bike with X9 crankset but can be used on 135/170 mm hub fat bikes. these are made from 7075 Aluminum and are available in red, black and silver and costs $89. http://www.wolftoothcycling.com/products/snowflakechainrings-for-sram-bb30-short-spindle-cranks
ORu KAyAK If you are tired of awkwardly carrying a kayak to your favorite drop-in, then Oru may have solved your problem. Oru has designed a kayak that will fold to the size of a small backpack and weighs about 25 pounds. the kayak is made of one continuous piece of corrugated plastic with the floorboard acting as sort of lid when in backpack mod. these kayaks are available on Oru’s website for $1,095. http://www.orukayak.com/products/holiday-oru-kayak
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
MAgPuL’S FIeLd CeLL PHOne CASe there are a variety of covers on the market for the iPhone® 5/5s. Magpul Industries has created one with a bit of a tactical feel. Magpul’s Field Case is a made of thermoplastic and for basic protection. the case is a snap-on design and resembles the companies PMAgs available for a variety of weapons. the $17 case comes in a variety of colors, including those that are less military looking. http://store.magpul.com/product/MAG452/125
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
Wildcat G “If you don’t like the weather in the Ozarks, stick around, it’ll change.”
151 Spring Street • Eureka Springs, Arkansas • Wed. - Sat. 9-5 Phone: 479-253-0900 or 479-466-6095 Fax: 479-253-0901
This old adage has been especially true this year as we freeze one week only to be quickly thawed the next week by 60 degree weather. One thing’s for sure: by the time you read this article, you’ll either be in short-sleeves sipping ice tea and musing at the uncharacteristically warm weather or shivering in five layers of clothing, warming your hands with coca and taking bets on how astronomically high your heating bill will be.
Off STORY AND PHOTOS BY JENNIFER CONNER
t Glades
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area. The center consists of a learning center where you can warm up before, or after your hike and view, up-close, some of the creatures you might see in nature like a speckled king snake or a tarantula. There is a network of short trails right around the visitor center, some of which are paved and accessible. Walk along the north shore of Shoal Creek and enjoy the river view, explore the chert overhangs and ledges, peer into an Ozark cave and visit Wildcat Spring which pours into Shoal Creek.
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
Either way, there’s no better way to beat the doldrums of winter than by getting out of the house, even for a short walk.  Wildcat Glades in Joplin provides the perfect opportunity to get out and see some Ozark wonders, without venturing too far away from our creature comforts. Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center is a unique partnership between the city of Joplin, the Audubon Society and the Missouri Department of Conservation and is dedicated to the preservation of rare chert glades in the
n cheRT glades
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
WILDCAT GLADE TRAIL Chert, also known as flint, is a very hard rock found throughout southwest Missouri. Native Americans used chert to fashion arrowheads and other weapons. Most Ozark chert is found in pockets or veins within other sedimentary rocks like limestone or dolomite. Wildcat Glades is unique in that the glades are made up solely of chert. To give you an idea of just how special this is, consider the following fact: There are only 60 acres of chert glades in the world and 27 of those are located in Wildcat Glades in Joplin, Missouri.
You can experience this unique phenomenon up-close by hiking the Wildcat Glade Nature Trail which is located on the south side of Shoal Creek off Castle Drive. The trail winds through the glades, which have been designated as a Natural Area by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Natural areas are preserved as examples of the state’s original landscapes. Since this is a relatively short hike (0.4 miles round trip) you can add the mile-long bluff trail, which follows the Shoal Creek bluff and provides a birds-eye view of the river below.
Although the hike is perfect for winter weather, don’t forget to visit in the spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom. You might even see a collared lizard scurrying across the trail or glimpse a painted bunting fly overhead! Whatever the weather throws us this
winter; whether you’re bundled up like Ralphie in “A Christmas Story,” or sporting shorts and T-shirt, get up, get out and get going to Wildcat Glades! Wildcat Glades is located at 201 W Riviera Drive, Suite A in Joplin. For more information call Wildcat Glades at 417-782-6287.
n sT. John’s cReek TRail
Small wonder WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
Prickly pear cactus is commonly found in Ozark glades. the plant boasts a beautiful yellow flower in the spring and the nectar is edible. Some inconclusive studies suggest that the nectar may aid in blood sugar stability in diabetics. But contain your enthusiasm for imbibing prickly pear juice unless you cultivate the plant in your own backyard. the prickly pear cactus found in our delicate glades should be left to its own devices as an integral part of the ecosystem.
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Bearing in mind bears or Blac not such bad news By Joshua Boley
BLACK BeAR
making a comeback STORY BY JOS HUA BOLEY PHOTOS BY JOSHUA BOLEY AN D M IS S O UR I DEPA RTMENT OF CONS ERVATIO N
black bear sightings have increased annually in southern missouri and northern arkansas.
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
Emotions for the black bears range from delight to annoyed, to fear, depending on a person’s interaction with one. According to Michael Peterson, private land conservationist with Missouri Department of Conservation, black bears were reintroduced into Arkansas in the 1950s and 60s. However, it wasn’t till 1987 that the conservation department started documenting bear sightings. “They released 250 bears that were captured up in Manitoba and Minnesota,” Peterson said. “The bears we are getting now are because the population is getting so large down there that the males are dispersing outward and moving up here because of the Mark Twain National Forest.” A study conducted from 2010 to 2012 by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) research science division found that the majority of the black bear population in Missouri is east of Highway 65, as it runs north and south between Branson and Springfield. “We only found two or three from that study, and we put a collar on one, which was down by Sugar Camp Tower,” Peterson said. “East of 65 had between 30 and 40 bears at the time.”
michael peTeRson
Peterson explained that DNA samples taken during the study confirmed that the majority of the bears in Missouri are from the Arkansas stock. However the study also found there was an isolated pocket in Webster County, Missouri, and another
s or Black bears making a comeback or Black bears
ARS
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
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The images below aRe snapshoTs fRom Johnny bishop’s game cameRa seT up on his pRopeRTy neaR RoaRing RiveR sTaTe paRk.
in the Ouachita Mountains near Hot Springs, Arkansas, that were not part of the reintroduction stock. Based on MDC statistics, the black bear population for Missouri is near 250 bears. Peterson said the bears typically stay in the Mark Twain National Forest because of dense trees and low human populations.
“I have seen them right here at the house. They seem to like dog food and bird seed. They also seem to like game camera and like to gnaw on them.” -Johnny bishop
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
Johnny bishop shows off a casTing of one of The black beaR TRacks he found on his land.
Johnny bishop
Johnny Bishop lives just outside of Roaring River State Park on Highway 112 in Autumn Estates and has seen black bear around his property for the last five years.
Bishop contacted MDC last fall when he had sighted one and they attempted to photograph and/or collar the bear, but were unsuccessful. According to Peterson, another study is being conducted by Jeff Beringer, resource biologist with MDC, over the next two years. During this study, Beringer will attempt to collar 25 bears each year. “He wants to collar females because they only have cubs every two years,” Peterson said. “He wants to get a home range for them and the survival rates for the cubs and females.”
Dan VanDerhoef, conservation agent with the Missouri Department of Conservation, said there hasn’t been a great number of issues with black bears because more often than not the bears are more scared of humans than we are of them. “What makes problems is feeding the bears, and some of that is intentional and some is not, such as leaving dog food on the back porch or leaving trash out,” VanDerhoef said. VanDerhoef explained there currently is no season for hunting black bear in
Some facts about black bears: bears eat vegetation, hard and soft mass, carrion, and animals they can catch. since females don’t breed until they are three, and only once every other year, bear populations have a low growth rate.
Missouri, and it is therefore against the law to shoot one unless your life is in danger or if they are attacking livestock. The MDC will consider opening a limited hunting season on black bear once their numbers are over 500 in Missouri.
bear densities are low, usually less than one bear per square mile. young males disperse when two years old and may travel up to 50 miles. females do not disperse. most nuisance bears are young males.
Living in bear range can provide great viewing experience. It can also prove to be troublesome. Here are some tips to minimize encounters with nuisance bears. neveR leave peT food ouT afTeR daRk. do noT leave TRash ouT afTeR daRk . do noT puT ouT biRd feedeRs.
dan vandeRhoef
puT elecTRic fence aRound bee hives and oRchaRds. foR youR safeTy and The beaR’s, neveR feed a beaR. infoRmaTion pRovided by The missouRi depaRTmenT of conseRvaTion black beaR pRoJecT.
michael peTeRson poses wiTh a TRapped beaR weighing oveR 220 pounds. peTeRson collecTs daTa samples and will Tag The beaR To moniToR dispuRsion. phoTo by missouRi depaRTmenT of conseRvaTion
“what makes problems is feeding the bears, and some of that is intentional and some is not, such as leaving dog food on the back porch or leaving trash out,” - dan van deRheof
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
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Most of the bears that Peterson and VanDerhoef have encountered have been young males between two and three years old. Peterson said that young males disperse trying to find their own home range while the females do not. Because the bears are relatively young, the majority being trapped by MDC are between 150 and 180 pounds with the occasional male pushing 400 pounds. Bishop reported similar sizes in his sightings. “The one boar was probably 275 to 300 pounds and you probably couldn’t stick his head in a five gallon bucket.” Bishop said. “Some friends that live across the hollow have some pictures of him carrying off bee hives.” Individuals who encounter a black bear are advised to stay clear of them and encouraged to call Michael Peterson at the MDC office at 417-847-5949, extension 6084.
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
takeyourpic THE Y-BRIDGE AT GALENA, MISSOURI
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the y-Bridge is an old highway bridge over the James River located at galena, Missouri, and opened in 1927. It is named the y-Bridge because it is shaped like the letter “y.� the bridge is such that going east, one could then either head north or south upon reaching the east end, where the highway was between a steep bluff on the east and the river on the west. It was built to accommodate Routes 43 and 44, now Routes 413 and 248. the bridge is now closed to vehicles and has been placed on the national Register of Historic Places. A newer bridge to the north carries traffic over the river. National Register Information System PHOtO By JOSHuA BOLey
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
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 boley556@gmail.com.
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Do you know
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014
SOMEONE, SOMETHING, SOMEWHERE you’d like to see featured in Ozarks Outdoors? Share it with us.
outdoors Get up. Get out. Get going.
Email Editor Joshua Boley at boley556@gmail.com PHOTO BY JOSHUA BOLEY
WINTER 2014 OZARKS OUTDOORS
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OZARKS OUTDOORS WINTER 2014