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TABLE OF CONTENTS May • June 2017
DEPARTMENTS
8 | The Scene
Scenes and sights from April’s Third Thursday event in downtown Joplin.
10 | The 10-Spot
With all the rain we’ve had it’s rare to find a bright and sunny day. So when there is one, take advantage of it by heading out to the golf course. We highlight 10 local and popular golf courses found in our neck of the woods.
36 | Profile
Michael Coonrod writes about three generations of the Teeter family who decided to pedal 300 miles on the famed Katy Trail in central Missouri.
COVER STORY
46 | Travel
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Day Trippin’ Our swashbuckling Amanda Stone travels down to central Arkansas to visit a very special farm on the banks of the Arkansas River. There, she tours the famed Moss Mountain Farm and also receives a rare opportunity to interview P. Allen Smith, the celebrity gardener, author and television personality. PAGE
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Profile
Travel
Kevin McClintock sits down with Joplin couple Deb Markman and John Vaughn to talk about their love for traveling, both here in the States as well as all points throughout the world.
Ever wanted to actually see a giant ball of twine? Well, here’s your chance. We spotlight more than two-dozen tourist “oddities” found just off the beaten path.
Why travel to the mountains or a distant ocean when we have plenty of beautiful natural wonders right here in our own back yard? How many of these places have you been to during your life time?
52 | Taste
We spotlight the fine cooking found at The Bayou, a restaurant in Monett, Missouri that showcases a taste that’s rare in our area — Cajun cooking straight from New Orleans.
54 | Mind Your Business
Ever wonder what local wines from local grapes taste like? Find out after reading Rebecca’s story about the Vogel family, who makes wines from their Galena, Kansas vineyards.
58 | Style
Bailie Broadwater, our talented intern from Missouri Southern State University, takes her camera and talents in hand to snap pictures of a number of local models wearing clothing and accessories from Joplin’s Blue Moon Boutique.
65 | J List
We list what we think are 5 top tourist attractions found in Joplin. 4
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FROM YOUR EDITOR
Amanda Stone HEAD WRITER Michael Coonrod Rebecca Haines David O’Neill CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
M
emorial Day weekend is right around the corner, which is always the green starting flag, so to speak, for the summer vacation travel season. Last year at this time, 38 million Americans traveled, or roughly 55 percent of the U.S. population, according to the American Automobile Association — 89 percent of them by automobile. This year, about that same number of people will be hitting the highways, traveling at 50 miles or more. So it makes sense, then, that the copy of JMAG you now hold in your hands is centered around road trips. But not just any road trip. We’re not talking about cruising 40 miles west to see cousin Eddie on his Kansas farm. We’re talking unique road trips here. And in our cover package, we’ve lined up some doozies for you. We think you’ll enjoy them. Of course, the biggest road trip within these pages, the one we’re most proud of, the one we’ve been crowing about to anyone who will listen to us, is our exclusive visit to the 600-acre Moss Mountain Farm, which is located just north of Little Rock and hugs the Arkansas River. Moss Mountain is the home of P. Allen Smith, the designer and gardening/ lifestyle expert who hosts two public television programs, “P. Allen Smith’s Garden Home” as well as “P. Allen Smith’s Garden to Table” and author of the best-selling “Garden Home” series of books. Once again, enterprising and hard-working head writer Amanda Stone hops in her car and travels south into the heart of the Natural State, where she not only spent a day on the farm (known as “The Garden Home Retreat”), but sat down with Smith on his back porch and recorded an exclusive interview that you’ll not
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Kevin McClintock Editor want to miss. We also showcase two strong profile features on local folks who love to travel: the first is on a Joplin couple who love traveling vagabond style both inside and outside the United States, and have made so many trips over the last 30 years that neither of them can tell you a proper count. The second details a unique journey taken by three generations of the Teeters — Tim, 68, Toby, 38 and Jacob, 12 — who bicycled the popular Katy Trail in Missouri. Other travel-related content in our summer issue includes a number of nifty road trip destinations: a bike park, a Civil War battlefield, a big cat park and an auto tour looking for a Missouri Sasquatch. We also showcase 13 ways for you to admire the great outdoors in our neck of the woods, 16 key Route 66 local stops and 25 oddball road trip stops, including the “largest ball of twine” in Cawker City, Kansas and a (shudder) hair museum in Independence, Missouri. We also highlight a family-run winery in Galena, Kansas and a Cajun-inspired restaurant in Monett. Remember, if you have an interesting idea for a story, or if you know someone who would make a great subject for a feature, don’t hesitate to contact us or leave a message. You can reach me at kmcclintock@joplinglobe.com, by mail at JMAG, 117 E. Fourth St., Joplin, Mo. 64801 or by calling us at 417.627.7279. Kevin McClintock Editor JMAG
Roger Nomer Laurie Sisk Rebecca Haines Bailie Broadwater Amanda Stone Kevin McClintock Casey Crocker CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Courtesy P. Allen Smith COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Courtney Adams Gina Langston Regina Carnahan Brian Huntley Justin Oden CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Courtney Adams LAYOUT/DESIGN THE JOPLIN GLOBE Mike Beatty mbeatty@joplinglobe.com PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Carol Stark cstark@joplinglobe.com EDITOR Kevin McClintock kmcclintock@joplinglobe.com JMAG EDITOR Jack Kaminsky jkaminsky@joplinglobe.com CIRCULATION MANAGER 117 East 4th Street Joplin, MO 64801 (800) 444-8514 joplinglobe.com To Subscribe: 800-444-8514 Press 1 To Advertise: 800-444-8514 EXT. 7239 JMAG is a publication of Newspaper Holdings, Inc. and is published bi-monthly. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be produced in whole or in part without the written permission from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited materials.
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MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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TheScene A pictorial glimpse into an important event from the JMAG area. Photography by Laurie Sisk
Martin Castro, Christopher Letda and Marcos Renteria prepare fresh grill fare from their “Ghetto Tacos” booth on S. Main Street.
Dawn Anderson, of Anderson Glass, adds a little love to the festive atmosphere during the April Third Thursday in downtown Joplin.
Balloon artist Dex Miller hands a dinosaur balloon to 4-year-old Nathan DeArmond as his sister, Joscelyn DeArmond, 10, looks on.
Joplin firefighter Aaron DeArmond organizes shirts for sale as a fundraiser for the Autism Center and the Joplin Firefighters Charitable Foundation during the April Third Thursday event.
Eight-year-old Riley Head checks out the engine of Clarence Gaston’s 1931 Chevy pickup. 8
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TheTenSpot Ten things you’ll learn about almost any unspecified subject, leaving you more enlightened. Written by Michael Coonrod
FORE!
A peek at our area golfing sanctuaries There is speculation among golf historians as to whether the game dates back more than 2,000 years to the Roman game of “paganica,” or the 10th century Chinese sport of “chuiwan.” The roots of golf as we now know it can be traced all the way back to Scotland’s eastern coast in the 15th century, where the game was outlawed by the Scottish Parliament in 1502. Apparently, it was interfering with archery practice which was deemed necessary for the country’s defense. Regardless of its origin or criminal heritage, many today enjoy the pastime. Here are 10 places to develop your drive or practice your putting.
Schifferdecker Golf Course Description: Schifferdecker is Joplin’s only public golf course. With Bermuda grass fairways, it offers enjoyment for all skill levels. SNAG golf, a youth program, offers instruction for kids to learn and play the sport. Location: 506 South Schifferdecker Avenue, Joplin Number of holes: 18 Par: 71 Established: 1922 Rates: $15 green fee — weekday adults, $18 weekend adults with senior and students rates available Amenities: Pro shop and clubhouse Contact: 417.624.3533
Twin Hills Golf & Country Club Description: Twin Hills has a rich history in Joplin. It originally opened as Oak Hills with 9 holes and 25 members in the early 1900s. Today, the championship course appeals to golfers of all skill levels due to the yardage range and five sets of tees.
Established: 1911 Rates: $22.50 plus tax/ 9 holes or $40 plus tax/18 holes (weekdays); $27.50 plus tax/9 holes, $45 plus tax/18 holes (weekends) — guest rates
Number of holes: 18
Amenities: Pro shop, putting green, driving range, locker rooms, tennis courts, swimming, restaurant/tavern
Par: 72
Contact: 417.623.4112
Location: 2019 South Country Club Drive, Joplin
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Eagle Creek Golf Club
Briarbrook Golf Course
Description: The former Loma Linda Country Club is now owned by Downstream Casino. The championship course features nearly 7,000 yards of Bermuda fairways lined with tall trees for a relaxing game.
Description: Featuring bent grass greens with Bermuda fairways, this course takes you through both wooded and residential areas. Briarbrook is recognized both for its scenery and hospitality.
Location: 2742 Ben Pell Drive, Joplin
Location: 502 Briarwood Drive, Carl Junction
Number of holes: 18
Number of holes: 18
Par: 71
Par: 36 — Valley, 9 holes; 36 — Hillside, 9 holes
Established: 1991
Established: 1964
Rates: 18 holes — $66/weekday, $76 weekend. A golf cart is required and included in the fee. There is a dress code. Tee times are required.
Rates: $10/9 holes, $20/18 holes (Mondays through Thursdays); $13/9 holes, $25/18 holes (Fridays through Sundays) — non-resident rates
Amenities: Pro shop, restaurant
Amenities: Pro shop, clubhouse, bar & grill, tennis courts, pool
Contact: 417.623.5050
Contact: 417.649.6777
Carthage Municipal Golf Course Description: Rolling fairways line a wooded backdrop featuring ponds, creeks and more than 30 bunkers to test everyone’s skills. This year will be the third straight for Carthage to have its own PG Jr. League Golf team. Location: 2000 Richard Webster Drive, Carthage Number of holes: 18 Par: 71 Established: 1937 Rates: $19 — walking, $32 with cart Mondays through Thursdays; $21 — walking, $34 with cart Fridays through Sundays and holidays Amenities: Pro shop, snack bar, lessons Contact: 417.237.7030 MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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TheTenSpot
Peoria Ridge Golf Course Description: Designed by Bland Pittman, this course features Bermuda fairways, rolling hills and water hazards. It offers both breathtaking views as well as a challenge to golfers. Location: 10301 South 600 Road Miami, Oklahoma Number of holes: 18 Par: 72 Established: 1911
Neosho Municipal Golf Course Description: The original 9-hole course was designed by famed golf architect Perry Maxwell, who also designed the Southern Hills course in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Novices and experienced golfers will enjoy this popular course with its elevated tee shots and rolling fairways.
Rates: $33/18 holes (weekdays); $43/18 holes (weekends/holidays) Amenities: Pro shop, practice facility, bar and grill Contact: 918.542.7676
Location: 1850 Clubhouse Road, Neosho Number of holes: 18 Par: Oaks Nine — 35, Valley Nine — 35 Established: 1924 Rates: $10/9 holes, $15/18 holes (Mondays through Thursdays); $12/9holes, $18/18 holes (Fridays through Sundays and holidays) Amenities: Clubhouse Contact: 417.451.1543
Highland Springs Country Club Cassville Golf Club Description: Cassville’s golf course has the distinction of being the first FHA (Federal Housing Authority)financed golfing facility in the United States. Originally a 9-hole course, it was expanded in 1988 and has been recognized by the Kansas City Star as one of the 10 finest public golf courses found in Missouri.
Description: Highland Springs features fairways and tee boxes of sodded zoysia grass with bentgrass greens; Robert Trent Jones II designed the course to utilize the rolling hills lined with local maple, elm and dogwood trees. Location: 5400 South Highland Springs Boulevard, Springfield
Location: 20276 State Highway 1122, Cassville
Number of holes: 18
Number of holes: 18
Par: 72
Par: 72
Established: 1911
Established: 1965
Rates: $64.50 (includes cart) weekdays, $87.50 (includes cart) weekends
Rates: $15/9 holes, $25/18 holes (weekdays); $17/9 holes, $28/18 holes (weekends) Amenities: Pro shop, driving range, swimming facility
Amenities: Pro shop, dining room, lounge, tennis courts, swimming
Contact: 417.847.2399
Contact: 417.886.0408
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Top of the Rock Golf Course
Top of the Rock Golf Course Description: Bass Pro Shops owner Johnny Morris, with assistance from Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, spent nearly eight years creating the course. This is the first par-3 course to be featured in a PGA Toursanctioned event. Location: 150 Top of the Rock Road, Hollister, MO Number of holes: 9 Par: 27 Established: 1996 Rates: $135, $65/replay (Mondays through Thursdays); $90/replay (Fridays through Sundays) — April 1 – October 31 and $115/9 holes, $65/replay — November 1 through March 31 Amenities: Pro shop, two restaurants, wine cellar Contact: 417.335.2777 MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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WHAT’S ON THE CALENDAR
Save the Date MAY
See the following Date Book pages for more comprehensive information on events.
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Kid’s Run & Walk of Silence
21st annual Joplin Truckers Jamboree
Mother’s Day
Joplin Memorial Marathon
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11th annual Spring Rock Swap at Joplin Museum Complex
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24 Joplin Little Theater presents “Little Shop of Horrors”
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27 Historical Neosho Schoolhouse educates at George Washington National Carver
Save the Date JUNE Sunday
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A Midsummer Night Dinner in the outdoors on Redings Mill Bridge
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Thursday
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First Thursday Artwalk, downtown Joplin
First Friday Wine Share, downtown Joplin
Route 66 Mother Road Bicycle Tour
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The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform an outdoor concert at the TJ Concert Hall.
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National Trails Day celebrates our National Trails System.
Joplin Pride Festival is the LGBT event of the year for the Joplin community
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Third Thursday is Joplin’s trademark cultural event.
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Fiddlers on the Route is a two-day musical festival at Joplin’s Landreth Park.
“Rally ‘Round the Flag” organ and brass band will play at Joplin Memorial Hall.
Father’s Day
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National Orange Blossom Day
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Date Book MAY Joplin Memorial Marathon Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20 The Joplin Memorial Marathon was created as a way to honor the 161 people who lost their lives in the May 22, 2011 tornado and to provide hope to the Joplin community while at the same time staging a first class event that runners will come back for again and again. All races will begin in front of Memorial Hall at 8th & Joplin Street in downtown Joplin. Joplin Street is one block directly west of Main Street. Joplin Memorial Hall 417.622.4595
11th Annual Spring Rock Swap Friday, May 19 through Sunday, May 21 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday
Hosted by the Tri-State Gem & Mineral Society. Located inside the Joplin Museum Complex in Schifferdecker Park. 417.623.1180 or joplinmuseum@ sbcglobal.net
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21st annual Joplin Truckers Jamboree Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. both days
Every year, they have been committed to giving back to the industry they love to serve — the American Truck Driver. This is a weekend full of fun, including dozens of exhibitors, live music, a gigantic fireworks display, a BBQ cookout and so much more. 417.621.6140 or www.joplin44.com/ truckers-jamboree
Joplin Little Theatre presents Little Shop of Horrors Wednesday, May 24 through Sunday, May 28 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. $15 at the door
A florist’s dreams begin to come true after finding an alien plant with a carnivorous appetite. Directed by Jade Nicholas
Neosho Schoolhouse at George Washington National Carver in Diamond Saturday, May 27 through Sunday, May 28 1-2 p.m. each day Join a park ranger for a special off-site visit to the Neosho Schoolhouse. This is the location of what was historically known as the Neosho Colored School where George Washington Carver attended in 1876. Learn about Carver’s time in Neosho and the struggle for education during that time.
Date Book JUNE First Thursday Artwalk Thursday, June 1 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Located in historic downtown Joplin — stroll along and see fine art and listen to live music. Free event and family friendly.
First Friday Wine Share Friday, June 2
Downtown Joplin Alliance hosts a unique networking opportunity held in rotating locations and sponsored by various local businesses. It’s free to attend, and anyone over 21 is welcome! Just bring a bottle of wine or craft beer to share and we will take care of the rest. We also encourage you to bring a glass — the more unique the better!
Route 66 Mother Road Bicycle Tour Saturday, June 3 7 a.m.
Experience the thrill of seeing three states along America’s Mother Road (Route 66), from the unique vantage point of a bicycle.
National Trails Day Saturday, June 3 9 a.m. to noon
National Trails Day is the country’s largest celebration of trails. Visitors will learn about NPS Trails, hiking, safety, nutrition and well-being. You are invited to “Find Your Park” as we explore the park paths, trails and boundary roads. This day will focus on the National Trails System.
A Midsummer Night’s Dinner Tuesday, June 6
6:30 p.m. (Social) and 7 p.m. (dinner catered by Mythos) Out in the open atop Redings Mill Bridge. Cost is $85 per person/$170 per couple. Join them for a magical evening on the historic Redings Mill Bridge. Enjoy a gourmet dinner served on linen as you experience the sounds and sights of Shoal Creek settling down for the night. Live entertainment, a silent auction and a dessert auction.
World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra Thursday, June 8 7 p.m.
The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform an outdoor concert at sunset at the TJ Concert Hall. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. The present Glenn Miller Orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing an average of 300 live dates a year all around the world. 417.781.5124
Joplin Pride Festival Saturday, June 10 9 a.m. through 7:30 p.m.
This is the LGBT event of the year for the Joplin community; everyone is welcome and the event is free to the public. There will be bounce houses, games, entertainers, a band, a pet contest and food and craft vendors. www.joplinpride.com
Third Thursday Thursday, June 15 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Third Thursday is Joplin’s trademark cultural event. Every Third Thursday from March to October, thousands of people fill Main Street to enjoy local artisans, music, entertainment and food.
Fiddlers on the Route Friday, June 30-Saturday, July 1 Grounds open both nights at 5 p.m.
This is a two-day festival of outstanding musical performances in Joplin’s beautiful Landreth Park. Friday night caters to the 21 and older crowd. Performances by Hudson and the Hoo Doo Cats and the rockin’ country of The Mother Road’s musical ambassadors, The Road Crew. Enjoy food vendors and a beer garden. Saturday night is family night, featuring America’s premier youth fiddling show band, the Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic. Enjoy dinner on the grounds from food vendors before the concert, then sit back and prepare to be amazed.
Rally ‘Round the Flag Saturday, July 1 3 p.m.
Rally ‘Round the Flag organ and brass band will play inside the historic Joplin Memorial Hall. It is free to the public. 417.622.4595 MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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DayTrippin’ Unique day-stay suggestions that can be enjoyed in a single day’s time.
“We centered the arrangement of the farm around this oak (at left). We call it the big sister oak. There are six other sister oaks,” said Smith, pointing out the Post Oak trees. In the spring, 400,000 daffodil bulbs bloom, blanketing the farm in pops of yellow.
Written and photographed by Amanda Stone
A Trip through the Boston Mountains to
P. Allen Smith’s Moss Mountain Farm Just north of the geographical center of Arkansas lies a gardener’s mecca. P. Allen Smith’s Moss Mountain Farm is a little more than four hours away by car, but the scenic drive through Northwest Arkansas and the Boston Mountains makes time fly. This road trip is not just for Smith’s biggest fans; both the journey and the destination are awe-inspiring, offering a feast for lovers of nature, food and art. Smith, gardening guru, artist, author and self-proclaimed chicken geek, invites guests to his 600-acre estate on Thursdays and Fridays through June and in the fall. Situated on the Arkansas River, Moss Mountain Farm is home to Smith’s one-acre vegetable garden, an English rose garden as well as elegant terraced gardens at every turn. His stunning Jefferson-inspired farm home is open for guests to wander; the kitchen where his show is often filmed was a highlight, as were the peanut butter cookies baked by his aunt Jamie. Guests are treated to tours of it all, including Poultryville, which houses his beloved birds, including heritage breeds of chickens, ducks, geese, swans and turkeys. It’s an incredible setup, with each variety kept separate from one another in order to conserve the breed. Diehard P. Allen Smith fans will recognize many of his animals from 18
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Smith’s grandparents had a sleeping porch, which he said was more of a necessity back then in the South. His runs the width of the house. “It offers the best views of the garden and the river valley. The porch is used a lot; it’s a wonderful space,” said Smith.
his television show, such as Moose the donkey and his massive Anatolian Shepherds, Smudge and Squeak, working dogs whose job is to defend the farm and its many inhabitants. We were greeted by Smith, who gave us a history of the farm and rundown of the goings on there. He drips with
southern charm, drawl and all. He’s wellspoken, funny and knowledgeable about so many subjects, it would be difficult to leave Moss Mountain uninspired. Smith made sure to take as much time as was needed to shake hands, dole out hugs, swap stories and sign autographs. If you’re just along for the ride, Moss
Fresh from the farm recipes from Smith’s cookbook are included in lunch tours at Moss Mountain Farm.
Smith’s biggest fans and those just along for the road trip won’t be disappointed by the splendor of Moss Mountain Farm.
Mountain Farm doesn’t disappoint. In between touring the farm and the house, a deliciously fresh “from the farm” meal is served. The recipes are from Smith’s cookbook, including swoon-worthy buttermilk pecan pie with freshly whipped cream—it’s one of his family favorites. The day we visited, we were treated to a post-lunch presentation from local goat’s milk soap maker, Tammy Sue Pope. She whipped up a batch of soap while telling us stories from her farm. Her lotions, soaps and lip balm were available in the quaint shop on the way out, along with prints of Smith’s paintings and unique gifts; a perfect day warrants souvenirs to remember it by. A few notes: The tours are rain or shine; come prepared. There is an opportunity to cover a lot of ground, so wear comfortable shoes. You can walk as little or as much as you choose during the farm’s open hours, which were 10 am until 2 pm the day we visited. Find more information on tours, workshops and special events and reserve tickets at pallensmith.com. Moss Mountain Farm could be just a very long day trip, but with so many adventures along the way, it would be a shame. We recommend spending at least one night in the area in order to take full advantage of the drive. Consider these stops along the way when planning your trip to Moss Mountain. Poultryville is home to 60 different breeds of ancient heritage poultry. Smith is dedicated to perpetuating the genetics of the breeds.
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Smith’s art studio is surrounded by beauty.
The Weinkeller Restaurant in Wiederkehr Village is a unique stop offering Swiss and European cuisine along the Arkansas Wine Trail.
Crystal Bridges, Bentonville P. Allen Smith said he won’t be missing the Chihuly exhibit, and he’s spot-on as usual. Make sure to make time to take in Chihuly: In the Gallery and in the Forest, June 3 through August 14 or at the least, Chihuly: In the Forest, August 16 through November 13. Chihuly changed the way we think about glass by stretching it further than we ever thought possible. An artistic innovator for more than 40 years, Dale Chihuly’s world of wonder begs to be explored. Terra Studios, Fayetteville Terra Studios is home of the Bluebird of Happiness, or those glass bluebirds that someone you know has. Although the bluebirds are their claim to fame, Terra Studios has much more to offer, though you can watch the bluebirds being made. They are a nonprofit organization and admission is free. They are host to classes, workshops, awesome demonstrations and live music on Sunday afternoons. Visit the Art Lab to express your inner creativity. Bring the family to stroll the six-acre, oneof-a-kind Art Park, which is scattered with sculptures, fountains, murals and fantastical creatures, created by hundreds of artists. Visit the Wizard’s Cave, wander the labyrinth and
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His home’s design was inspired by the 1840s-era farm it rests upon.
take in the magic of it all. Bring a picnic, take pictures and enjoy. And play a game of giant chess or checkers while you’re at it. Arkansas Wine Trail, Altus We stumbled upon this gem of a wine trail, and are so glad we took the “Altus” exit off Interstate 40. Altus, a town with a population of around 800, boasts four wineries offering tours and tasting rooms. Wiederkehr Village, which is on the same stretch, has two more wineries, including Wiederkehr Wine Cellars. It features an original hand dug wine cellar and is on the National Register of Historic Places; the Weinkeller Restaurant has occupied the cellar since 1967, and it turned out to be an unexpected high point of our drive. You can’t miss the signs for Weinkeller Restaurant; they are what lured us in when we were sure a chain restaurant was in our dining future. The menu boasts Swiss cuisine as well as other European dishes, and of course wine, including local varieties and many others. It was dark, candlelit and oozing with charm; the antipasto platter was a feast for the senses.
Pat and John Coffey were among the visitors having their books autographed by Smith. The Coffeys, from Perryville, Arkansas, were visiting for Pat’s birthday. “I like watching his show because of the history,” Pat said. “I learn a lot. And I just got a few chickens, so I’m just starting out.”
Little Rock is a hop, skip and a jump east of Moss Mountain Farm. Arkansas’ capital city has it all: museums, history, culture, gardens, adventure parks, shopping and really a little something for everyone, as is par for a larger city. Pick your pleasure. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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DayTrippin’
A conversation with
P. Allen Smith By Amanda Stone
During our recent trip to Moss Mountain Farm, P. Allen Smith invited us to his back porch to talk farm, family and fowl. The accomplished gardener, designer, artist and television host is also the picture of Southern hospitality. With beautiful terraced gardens and the Arkansas River valley as the backdrop, Smith sipped his morning coffee, chatting effortlessly all the while. On Moss Mountain Farm, which goes back to 1840: “We wanted to create a home that reflected the time period, but all green,” Smith said. “It’s built in the spirit and the style that one would have found in the 1840s here in Arkansas.” The Jefferson-inspired farm house is new and energy efficient in every way, but appears aged, down to the worn paint on the brick exterior. Soy bean-based foam and shredded denim were used as insulation. Under the metal roof on the south-facing side is tubing which creates radiant heat from the basement floor and warms the upper three levels. On his many interests, projects and passions and how they intertwine: “I’ve always been a plant geek. I was encouraged to plant as a kid, and also to paint. The two came together in landscape architecture design,” he said. “When I lived in England and went to graduate school there, one of my professors taught us that good garden design is good picture making. There’s a direct connection. I asked my mom when I became so interested in gardening. My mom showed me a picture of when I was two, outside with a trowel in hand. She said, ‘even at two we couldn’t keep you in the house. You wanted to change the way the front of the house looked even then.’”
Photography courtesy 22 JMAG • MAY | JUNE P. Allen Smith
On creating the Heritage Poultry Conservancy, which is dedicated to the
Photography courtesy P. Allen Smith
Relaxed on the back porch of his Moss Mountain Farm home, Smith spoke candidly, yet earnestly about living gently on the land and the importance of staying connected to family and farming. Photograph by Carol Stark.
preservation and support of threatened breeds of domesticated poultry, and allowing children responsibility: “Even with raising four children after my dad died, my mom found the time to take me to poultry shows and the state fair multiple times. Self-esteem is really important and kids need to be in a position where they can grow something and raise something and be rewarded for it. For it to become a hobby, for them to own it. It becomes a part of their identity. Chickens are something that kids can take care of in a small area by himself of herself. I mowed lawns and made money to buy my feed and wire to build my pens. No one else was going to do it. “If you can get a handful of kids and get them excited about something, even if it’s just four or five years of their life that’s formative, they’ll come back around to it,” he continued. “They don’t forget and they come back to it. That’s why it’s important to me and that’s why chickens.
“There’s a 10-year-old 4H’r that lives in me and gets really excited about livestock.”
On choosing to garden organically and focusing on sustainability: “When you think about the average age for farmers now, I believe it’s 68 or 69, you think about the loss off all that information and how to grow things. When I talk about sustainability I mean people just being able to take care of themselves. Being able to grow a garden and to know a few things about the natural world, to be able to keep a few
chickens, to be able to do these sorts of things, and have some fun with it. It doesn’t have to be drudgery. For me, it seemed like the thing to do. We need to be better stewards of our resources, just across the board.” On the separation of generations: “I think that culturally we’re
disconnected. That’s why there’s such an interest among millennials to reconnect with their food. I think we’re disconnected from one generation to the other. We’ve lost so much. We’re warehousing our elderly. I’m very interested in multigenerational communities as a way to bring the generations together.” MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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ZIP-a-dee-doo-da Branson Zipline Canopy Tours at Wolfe Creek Preserve Branson, Missouri 101 miles from Joplin By Amanda Stone Photography courtesy Branson Zipline
Experience the ultimate in familyfriendly adventure on top of the Ozarks’ Wolfe Mountain. The complex has canopy tours using eight zip lines, ten suspension
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bridges and a 40-foot and 100-foot simulated free fall. Guided excursions range from one-and-a-half to three hours, day and night. A guided walking safari photo tour is available as well, which provides an up close look at the preserve’s flora and fauna and a unique position to view zipline riders. A unique year-round snow tubing hill will open this summer, which will be the largest synthetic snow tubing hill in the U.S. Up to eight tubes will be allowed to run down the slope simultaneously. For more information, go online to www.bransonzipline.com.
Wyoming
Ringo
Loretta
Spyke
A Sanctuary for the Savage Beast Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Eureka Springs, Arkansas 91 miles from Joplin By Kevin McClintock Photography courtesy Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Lions and tigers and bears and leopards and cougars and ligers and bobcats and servals — oh my! This 459-acre wildlife refuge located south of Eureka Springs serves as a safe haven for abused, abandoned and
neglected big cats. There are more than 100 animals living here, and though Turpentine primarily focuses on felines, there’s also black bears, a grizzly bear, a monkey and a coatimundi (an exotic raccoon) living in safety here, as well. Most of the animals were “pets” whose owners could no longer afford or legally keep them. The first lion owned by the Jackson family, who would eventually create the refuge, was named “Bum.” The second was “Sheila.” They were kept in their back yard. The refuge was established when three cattle trailer trucks filled with 42 big cats owned by black market dealer Katherine Twiss showed up in Arkansas. The Jackson family — Don, Hilda and Tanya, the latter who is the refuge’s current president — sold everything they owned and dedicated their lives to these poor animals in 1992 by creating the refuge. In 2012, they rescued 34 big cats from a breeding facility. Last year, the facility’s population nearly doubled when they
acquired 110 animals from a Colorado sanctuary. Today, there are more than a dozen sanctuaries for big cats all around the United States, but Turpentine was the frontrunner. As the Turpentine website explains: “The United States has thousands of its residents keeping dangerous big cats in their backyards, basements, garages, and warehouses. People acquire these animals as pets and soon find they have made a grave decision and turned to Turpentine Creek for refuge.” Tours (guided and self-guided) are available at this USDA-licensed refuge, and each animal has its own story and history. There is also a gift shop, picnic tables, and places to stay overnight, including RV spots, tents, a tree house bungalow that can sleep four and several suites and lodges. Turpentine is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas. 25 MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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This is your best chance yet to re-live your favorite “Game of Thrones” moments while walking through the beautiful remnants of this stone castle, which was built on high to overlook the Lake of the Ozarks. It sits less than three hours from your doorstep. What are you waiting for?
A number of caves and natural bridges stud this state park. If you come here, two must-have possessions on your person is a camera, of course, and a quality pair of binoculars.
An honest-to-goodness castle Ha Ha Tonka State Park Camdenton, Missouri 142 miles from Joplin By Kevin McClintock File photos Who needs to go to Europe to see a stone castle up close and personally? Missouri has its own medieval monstrosity, located right in the heart of the Show-Me State. The go-to highlight of this state park — located on the Lake of the Ozarks — is the stone ruins of the turn-of-the-century Ha Ha Tonka (which means “smiling waters” in Osage) castle, which was built 26
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by prominent Kansas City businessman and millionaire Robert McClure Snyder Sr. and his two sons beginning in 1905 and completed during the early 1920s. The castle was used as a summer and weekend home for the family; during the 1930s, it was used as a hotel before a fire destroyed most of it in 1942. The 70-acre property was purchased by state officials in 1978 and is managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Aside from the castle, there are 15 miles of hiking trails and a number of natural caves, sinkholes and natural bridges — one that is 70 feet wide, 60 feet long and sits 100 feet above the ground.
It’s a wonder that a film crew hasn’t shot a fantasy or historical movie here — doesn’t this picture look like something lifted straight from the reels of the “Lord of the Rings” movies?
Do you Believe in Bigfoot? Bigfoot on the Strip Branson, Missouri 109 miles from Joplin Written and photographed by Rebecca Haines
One of Branson’s newest attractions allows believers of all ages to experience the thrills of hunting for the mysterious legend. Bigfoot on the Strip, 3608 W. Hwy 76, will offer a variety of games and excursions, and two kinds of rides that will shoot courageous hearts 200 feet into the air — now the highest
point in Branson. The $10 million project has been under construction for a year, and is the fifth attraction brought to Branson by the partner group Darrell Henley, Hamilton and Matt Cook. The group’s other projects include: Branson Zipline Canopy Tours, Parakeet Pete’s Waterfront Zipline and Balloon as well as Fast Shot Shooting Gallery. On two and a half acres along Highway 76, Bigfoot on the Strip is stationed inside a 10,000-square-foot building, called the Bigfoot Action Tower. It hosts an 18-hole miniature golf course and a three-level kids maze.
Also, the Bigfoot Discovery Expedition will take 28 willing hunters north of town to find Bigfoot in an open, off-road vehicle. While on the hour-long adventure, participants are encouraged to enjoy the beauty of the Ozarks, see Scottish Highland cattle and a rare chance to spy the legendary Bigfoot. As visitors check in, they may venture to the state-of-the-art arcade or Bigfoot’s 8Di Leadslinger Cinema where gamers will strap on an arcade shotgun and ride through the wilderness hunting Bigfoot. The games and Bigfoot’s Adventure Maze are handicapped accessible, and provide unique challenges for kids of all ages. Hamilton said there’s something for everyone, including a light show on the grounds and food trucks. The main attraction is the tallest point in Branson at the top of Bigfoot Action Tower. It offers the Gravity Bomb, where eight people are buckled in and raised 200 feet in the air. The claw at the top releases, and riders free fall until they’re 70 feet above the ground. The ride uses a full earth magnet system that creates a charge that slows the riders down to the ground. The other side is the “Saddle Sling,” where two riders fly into the air smoothly, then come down end-over-end to the ground. Bigfoot on the Strip also offers party rooms where kids won’t be the only customers. Hamilton said many corporate groups are often looking for a fun location for meetings.
Bigfoot on the Strip, Branson’s newest attraction, truly towers above the 76 Country Boulevard Strip, reaching more than 200 feet into the sky. The tower The Bigfoot Discovery Expedition allows the public to undertake their own hunt for offers two attractions: a free fall drop named “The Bigfoot, visiting the Bigfoot Farms outside Branson. While enjoying the beauty of the Gravity Bomb” and a two-seat saddle swing ride. Both Ozark Mountains, riders can keep a constant vigil for the elusive Sasquatch. rides are the first of their kind to open to the public and opens this month. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Titanic makes splash with
The famed ship lives on in central Branson.
revamped exhibit Titanic Museum Branson, Missouri 109 miles from Joplin Written and photographed by Rebecca Haines
For the past 12 years, the Titanic Museum in Branson has celebrated the lives of those who survived and honored the memory of those who perished on that fateful night of April 14, 1912. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Hollywood movie “Titanic,” which is the second highest-grossing movie of all time. This popular attraction is celebrating by showcasing some of the costumes used in the production; they will be on display through June. In all, there are 400 artifacts and 2,208 stories from the passengers. There are 20 galleries; two of the newest enhancements include one dedicated to the children and another that honors the musicians that played aboard the ship. Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, co-owner of the Titanic Museum, with her husband, John, said their well-rounded team effort has encouraged a thirst for knowledge and respect for heritage. “John and I had this big debate,” Mary said. “He wanted it about the ship and I said ‘I think
Several dresses and hats from the movie “Titanic” are currently on display through June at the Branson attraction.
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it’s about the people.’ You need the artifacts to validate who we are but I think it’s really about the people and the passengers … In 14 months we built this ship and over 6 million people have come to this ship, but the greatest honor, though, is that over 300 Titanic descendants have come. And they all say the same thing, ‘thank you for telling our stories and sharing our family’s history.’” The Titanic sat at the bottom of the ocean until it was located by an expedition in 1985. Two years later, $6 million was spent on a second expedition that accomplished 32 dives and lasted 44 days. The first television shows and pictures from those dives were from that expedition led by museum co-owner John Joslyn. One of the “most spectacular” artifacts on display inside the museum is a life jacket that belonged to Titanic survivor Madeline Astor and is worth $1 million — there are only nine such life jackets found in the world today.
The Titanic Museum in Branson features many interactive learning exhibits; one of which allows visitors to feel just how cold the water was the night the Titanic sunk. And yes, it’s cold!
The costume worn by the character “Jack,” played by Leonardo Dicaprio in Titanic, is on display now through June at the Titanic Museum in Branson.
Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, co-owner of the Titanic Museum in Branson, speaks to a small group at the Survivors Wall.
There Are Always Reasons to Visit Titanic Again! NEW Display! NEW Artifacts! What staircase was built actual size? Where can you play the baby grand piano? Did you know there were 10 dogs aboard Titanic? What ship pays tribute to 2,208 passengers? Where can you touch an iceberg?
20 years ago the iconic Titanic Movie was released, winning 11 Academy Awards. See the Titanic Movie Costumes NOW - June 11, 2017
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A Battlefield to Remember Pea Ridge National Monument Pea Ridge, Arkansas 62 miles from Joplin By Kevin McClintock Photography by Casey Crocker
An odd-sounding name for a town, let alone a Civil War battle, but the name is a combination of the physical location of the original settlement near a “ridge,” combined with the “turkey peas” cultivated in the area by Native American tribes. The town itself has less than 2,500 people, but it’s been famous for 100plus years now due to the key battle that took place about five miles east of town, centered around Elkhorn Tavern, in early 1862. Over two days, 16,000 Confederate soldiers clashed with 10,500 federal troops, small arms fire combined with the rumble of cannons. It was a bloody affair, with combined casualties reaching 3,000 wounded and killed. In the end, it resulted in a strategic Union victory, despite the “gray” outnumbering the “blue” on the field. At the time, it was the largest engagement taking place west of the Mississippi River. More importantly, it kept Missouri in the Union, blunting an attempt to pull the Show-Me State into the Confederacy. Covering 4,300 acres, this national military park was established in 1956. The combination drive/walk tour of the battlefield is the main attraction, including a peek inside the historic Elkhorn Tavern, as well as a number of monuments. There are artillery pieces on display as well as a visitor’s center with gifts and a screened movie about the battle. Pea Ridge has been acknowledged by many Civil War historians and educators as one of the best preserved Civil War battlefields found anywhere west of the Appalachian Mountains. 30
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Bikin’ it
Taking to the sky
The Railyard Bike Park Rogers, Arkansas 68 miles from Joplin By Amanda Stone Photography courtesy The Railyard Bike Park
The Railyard is a man-made natural surface bike park consisting of jumps, a skills park and pump track (a continuous loop of dirt hills and mounds meant to be ridden without pedaling but instead “pumping” the upper and lower body). It’s a great workout and can be ridden by all ages and skill levels. There are eight jump lines consisting of novice, intermediate and advanced routes winding around the terrain, including a tunnel and a train car to ride through. The park connects to a paved trail leading to Lake Atalanta Park, as well as a multi-use trail system linked to downtown Rogers. The Railyard opened in 2015 and is operated by the City of Rogers. There are lights in the park for cycling into the evening, but the park does close in inclement weather and remains closed after large amounts of precipitation in order to maintain the integrity of the course. The Railyard is free to the public. In order to make sure they’re open before you load up the bikes, check their Facebook page or call the hotline at 479.621.1120.
“Look ma! No hands!”
Head over heels while defying gravity
The Railyard at night
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An honest and detailed look at a person or place in the JMAG area. Written by Kevin McClintock Photography courtesy Deb Markman
Travel in the ‘raw’ Joplin couple seeks ‘off-the-grid’ travels worldwide Deb Markman and John Vaughn both glanced at each other, chuckling, when asked how many times they’ve traveled outside Southwest Missouri over their 33 years of marriage. “Want to give it a shot?” Deb finally asked her husband. Over the last three decades, the two have visited all 50 states and numerous locales across three continents, including Asia and Africa. Debbie, by herself, has traveled to Washington D.C. more than 30 times. In the end, John couldn’t come up with a concrete answer. “Too many to count,” he finally said with a shrug. To say this Joplin couple loves to travel would be quite the understatement. And by travel, we’re not talking about a weekendtrip to the Branson Landing or a quick jaunt north to Kansas City. No, Deb and John go a bit further than those local tourist spots. Beautiful Costa Rica, for example, or the exotic Peruvian Amazon, are more in line with the pair’s traveling tastes. Deb and John call themselves “vagabonds” when it comes to how they travel. Vago Damitio, a traveling blogger, describes what this means: “Since the 1920s, the term (vagabond) has been used to describe a type of travel that doesn’t break your budget and that generally brings one into contact with local people, cultures and landscapes.” In other words, it’s a combination of traveling cheap and off the so-called beaten path. 32
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Machu Picchu
Old Croatia
Vinice, Italy
Concerning the former, it’s why Deb and John love camping so much. They absolutely adore the nation’s national park system; no other country anywhere in the world have the number, breadth and scope of federally-funded and protected parks like the U.S. possesses. “National treasures” is how Deb describes them. “It’s cheap,” Deb said. “For a while there they didn’t charge you to go to the park at all. You could camp inside for free. Talk about cheap. You paid gas and loaded up the cooler for food. And we ate well.” In particular, the two pine over Yellowstone National park in Wyoming. Deb is an amateur photographer, while John is an avid birdwatcher. Both of these loves blend perfectly with the great panoramic views offered by a state or federal park. So whether they head out to Idaho or Italy, they always have camera and bird list in tow. The great American parks, Deb said, “is about being in nature; it’s the epitome of relaxation. It re-grounds you. It starts to make you realize that the things we value aren’t really all that valuable. It helps you re-prioritize. You need that re-setting if you’re always busy with stuff.” Concerning the latter, Deb and John aren’t particularly interested in the populated portions of a popular destination spot. The further the two can get away from camera-toting crowds, the happier they’ll be. Which is why they love to hole up inside hostels when outside the United States. For example, during their stay in the jungles of Costa Rica, they slept inside a bungalow that had just three walls and a roof
Vinice, Italy
— the opened area faced the wild darkness of the untamed jungle. You certainly wouldn’t find something like this at your domestic four-star hotel. “We want to be out,” Deb added in agreement. “We’re not going to stay where the tourists stay. When we’re in the jungle, we don’t want walls around us. That’s hard for people to understand. And we have people ask us, ‘Aren’t you worried about this or that?’ And I’m like, ‘No, I don’t think so.’ We just both like being out in nature.” During their stay at the “Bosque De Cabo” eco resort, they
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Chichen Itza, Mexico
Sacred Valley Peru
Machu Picchu
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wanted to stay in Costa Rica for 10 days. The booking agency kept insisting on three days, because that’s what everybody else usually wanted in the past. But Deb and John didn’t want their days planned down to the half-hour. They wanted to walk treechoked trails by themselves; they wanted to live in a secluded and quiet area that wasn’t overly populated by other humans. After all, both were seasoned travelers, having explored rain forests, grand canyons, thick forests and the deserts in the Middle A Howler Baby
East. “I kept looking up places in (Osa) on Google Maps and there would be all these buildings near it and that’s not what we wanted,” John said. “Where we ended up staying, you couldn’t see anything. Most people see civilization and think, ‘Oh good, safety in numbers.’ We’re saying, ‘No, we don’t want that.’” “And that’s the fun of it,” Deb added with a smile. Costa Rica
TRAVEL TIPS Here are some traveling tips from Deb Markman and John Vaughn. Pay attention to these. When it comes to traveling, this Joplin couple certainly knows what they’re talking about. • “Typically, when we fly in somewhere we will have a place to stay. The rule of thumb is: If you’re flying, and it’s going to be dark (at your destination), you must have a place to stay.”
• Know the CDC recommendations for visiting a foreign country well in advance; it’s also a good idea to get your shots 6 months before you leave the country.
• When visiting another country, you’ll do fine as long as you are honest, open and friendly, John said. “As long as you’re trying to treat people with respect and at least learn how to say ‘thank you’ and ‘please’ (in the native language), then it will be fine.”
• Never push someone beyond their (traveling) comfort zone, John said. “It won’t be fun for them; it will be more stressful.”
• If you like to do a bunch of stuff and love life structured, than go with tour agencies that will set you up with an agenda to be followed. If you don’t like to be hurried and pushed from point A to be point B, stay away from them. “When you (plan things) yourself,” Deb said, “you can slow down and stay for as long as you want.” An in-country travel guide is a nice thing to have. These folks allow you to keep your distance but will make sure you safely board trains, get to your destination, etc. Deb and John did this when they went to Machu Picchu in Peru, and “it was wonderful,” Deb said. “Nobody is there holding your hands.”
• When researching a destination, take advantage of the Joplin Public Library. There are plenty of books about places found throughout the world, and for the most part the information is fresh. “Old buildings don’t change,” John said. • Always take a first-aid kit. • Travel light. “I don’t know why people take so much these days,” John said. “You can do laundry anywhere — even out in the rain forest!” • Only travel if you want to — vacations are fun; they shouldn’t be frightening events. “If you’re afraid to go because something might happen, then you’re done,” John said. “You’re not going to get what you want out of (vacation) trips.” MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Teeters’ Trail Local family members ride ‘The Katy’ By Michael Coonrod Photography courtesy Toby Teeter
It’s the time of year when people start looking forward to summer vacations, or at least a weekend road trip. Our modern highway systems make travel scenic, comfortable and convenient. Consider Lewis and Clark’s Corps Of Discovery; they ventured into an untamed frontier in search of a “river road” that would connect the Mississippi River with the Pacific Ocean. This would enable trade from the Gulf of Mexico to the new western lands and cities lining the Ohio River. Their journey would pave the way for settlers, and later, railroads. The Missouri–Kansas-Texas Railroad, or MKT, followed parts of Lewis and Clark’s original trailblazing path. The railroad was commonly called the K-T, evolving phonetically into “The Katy.” While the trains no longer run their twisting route through Missouri, the “rails to trails” program has given new life to the Katy Trail and many of the small towns found along its length. “My dad wanted to cycle ‘long’ and our first thought was doing the NatchezTrace, 440 miles from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi on the Trace, which is a federal park highway,” said Toby Teeter, a local cyclist and business owner. “We were trying to fit that in the spring break week so my son could go, at least ride along, but we couldn’t find a support vehicle, couldn’t find anybody to volunteer to hang with us for a week.” Since their time frame was limited to that one lone week of spring break, Teeter rolled out an alternate plan. “My idea was to change it to a selfsupported trail ride on the Katy Trail from end to end. That fit better in our schedule. Suddenly, it made more sense 36
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A point-of-view snapshot of their journey down the seemingly endless Katy Trail. It’s a 275 mile journey between Clinton and St. Charles, Missouri. They made it in five days.
Three generations of Teeters rode the Katy Trail recently — 68-year-old Tim, 38-year-old Toby and 12-year-old Jacob. Here, they stop for a movie poster pose in St. Charles, one of the trail’s two terminus points.
to have Jacob ride along,” Teeter said. “My dad’s been riding a bike for a couple years now, and I’m a pretty avid cyclist myself. Meanwhile, Jacob more or less gamed it. We went on one 20-mile practice run on the Ruby Jack Trail from Oronogo to Carthage and back. Other than that, he hadn’t really ridden long.” So Toby, 38, his 12-year-old-son Jacob, and Tim, Toby’s 68 years young father, loaded their bicycles and headed for Clinton, Missouri. Clinton is one of the path’s terminus points; the other is an area just outside St. Charles, Missouri, on the Missouri River. “He (Tim) wanted to do some sort of challenge,” said Teeter, who rode to New Orleans with the JOMONOLA group in 2013. “He got a kick out of that. He keeps hinting that he’s wanting to do something physical like this before he gets ‘too old.’ “He took it pretty seriously, and was really nervous about the whole thing: (the Katy Trail is) 275 miles. We did luck out
weather-wise,” he continued. “We didn’t have any issues with a super wet trail or anything. We did head into the wind every single day, which was an oddity.” On the first day, after driving two hours to Clinton, the trio biked about 70 miles to their first destination. “Every night we had reservations somewhere along the way, so we had a very clear goal and a known mileage to get to the next spot, regardless of the weather or how we felt,” said Teeter. “There were a few days where it was a grind. “All along the way, each night we stayed in bed and breakfasts, we even stayed in a guy’s barn,” he said. “He had a bed and breakfast and then a truck plowed into his house and he had to move into his own barn. He tricked out the second floor of the barn and continued to host cyclists there. The ‘Cycler’s Roost’ is what he called it. That host’s name was Doug, and he was kind of an interesting character.”
When the trio stopped for the day in Hermann, Missouri, located in the Missouri Rhineland, they stayed inside a guest house. “We lucked out there; he’s a retired chef from some fancy restaurant in St. Louis,” Teeter said. “The following morning he fixed us an amazing breakfast.” The three generations of cyclists benefitted from their hosts’ hospitality, making a grueling five-day ride a bit more civilized. “It definitely helped out,” said Teeter. “We took a hot shower every night, slept in a bed and had a decent breakfast, so that helped a lot. Springtime with your dad and your son is special, especially in those kind of scenarios. That was the best part, springtime with my dad and my boy. “I told Jacob, when he’s an adult someday and he looks back at his childhood, he’s only gonna remember five or six things and I think this (will be) one of them.”
“That was the best part” of the trip, Toby said. “Springtime with my dad and my boy.”
During their first day on the trail, starting out from Clinton, the trio pedaled 70 miles. They would take periodic rests throughout the day.
Father and son take a rest during a hard day’s slog. They rode during daylight hours and stayed in B&Bs and even a renovated barn owned by a retired chef (delicious breakfasts!) at nights. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Largest Ball of Twine
A detailed look at a must-stop location in the JMAG area or beyond. Written by Amanda Stone
23 Stops to Make Along the Way “I said, ‘Kids, if you could go anywhere in this great big world, now where’d you like to go ta?” They said, ‘Dad, we wanna see the biggest ball of twine in Minnesota.” – Weird Al Yankovic “Tomorrow you’ll probably … drive us 1,000 miles out of the way to see the world’s largest pile of mud!” – National Lampoon’s Vacation
Home of the White Squirrel Marionville, Missouri is just one of the towns that claims the elusive white squirrel, but they really are spotted here on a regular basis. Make sure to take a picture for proof.
A road trip to this summer’s vacation destination doesn’t have to be fast and furious. Let roadside attractions be part of the fun — there are plenty to choose from, no matter where you’re headed. They come in the form of lawn art, quirky museums, natural wonders and much more. These roadside gems may not be daytrip-worthy on their own, but they’re definitely worth a detour.
World’s Largest Small Electrical Appliance Museum
Largest Ball of Twine There are a few places within driving distance to view this classic roadside favorite. In Missouri, you’ll find one in Branson, Weston and Huntsville, but Cawker City, Kansas claims to have the world’s largest.
Hall of Waters Built in 1937, the Art Deco-style building housed the world’s longest water bar, an indoor swimming pool, a polio pool and separate spas for men and women. The spring water was believed to be healing and medicinal. The building is now a visitor’s center and museum. Located at 201 E. Broadway, Excelsior Springs, Missouri.
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Tucked at the very back of the J.R. Western Store in Diamond, Missouri is a three-room museum housing approximately 6,000 small electric appliances, ranging from toasters and irons to coffee pots and waffle irons. In all, there are “pinchers” and “perchers,” “droppers” and “floppers,” “tippers” and “flippers,” not to mention the “swingers,” “walk-throughs,” “flatbeds” and, of course, the ever-popular “pop-ups.” Overall, it’s arguably the most diverse grouping of 20th century American electric appliances anywhere in the nation.
Big Brutus The world’s largest electric shovel stands 16 stories high and can be seen for miles. It scooped its last bucket load of rock and dirt from a coal mine nearby in 1974. It’s sat there ever since. Each scoop of earth could fill 3 train cars. It’s worth having a look. Located at 6509 NW 60th Street, West Mineral, Kansas. Bonne Terre Mine The world’s largest fresh water dive resort is home to “The Billion Gallon Lake,” offering divers a unique tour of underwater artifacts and cave formations. Walking tours and boat tours are available as well. Located at 185 Park Avenue, Bonne Terre, Missouri Totem Pole Trading Post Open since 1933, this is a throwback to the heyday of Route 66. The store no longer sells gas, but they do serve food. The shop is packed full of antiques, oddities and memorabilia. Located at 1414 Martin Springs Drive, Rolla, Missouri. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Monkey Island Rescue & Sanctuary
Leila’s Hair Museum
It’s not open to the public, but they do encourage passersby to view the monkeys and lemurs playing in the trees from their cars. They are not caged; water around the island acts as a natural barrier. Located at 14505 S. Harris Road, Greenwood, Missouri.
Since this is the only hair museum in the world, it’s worth stopping in if you’re visiting Independence, Missouri. Framed wreaths of human hair line the walls and glass cases protect jewelry made from hair dating back to the Victorian period and earlier. The museum holds hair from Queen Victoria, Michael Jackson, four presidents, Marilyn Monroe and many others. Oddly fascinating.
Enormous Presidents’ Heads Once part of the now defunct Presidents Park in South Dakota, two of the nearly 20-foot-high presidential busts were relocated to Branson. JFK looms over a car lot at 5717 Highway 165 and Reagan can’t be missed in front of the Shirt Shack, 3430 W. Highway 76. Geographic Center of the U.S. With a population of around 200, the monument touting its central location is Lebanon, Kansas’s traveler hot spot. Sounds like a family photo waiting to happen.
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Blue Whale A quick stop that’s worth the look, the blue whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma, was built in the early 1970s by a zoologist as a gift for his whale-loving wife. Blue is a concrete whale of a welded structure at 20-feet-high and 80-feet-long. He used to watch over neighborhood kids at the swimming hole, but now he just smiles. Weird and wonderful.
Kris & Kate’s Ice Cream Treats
Bicycle Fence
Bo’s Hollow
The iconic pink building is shaped like an ice cream sundae. The quirky design, 50s music playing on the outdoor speakers, ice cream treats and food make it a must-stop. Located at 2330 N. 36th Street, St. Joseph, Missouri.
Bicycles are attached wheel to wheel to make a unique fence around a yard and shop. It’s a private residence, but it deserves a look when in Springfield.
The motto for this 1930s Ozark village located in Raymondville, Missouri is “Restoring the Past, Preserving the Future.” Stroll the grounds, wander the feed and hardware store, pump water from the well and feed the chickens and goats — but first shell and grind the corn. Finish up with a ride in a Model A Ford.
Metal Welded Dinosaurs The property is crawling with huge beasts created from pieces and parts of metal scrap, tools and machines. It’s private property, but the dinosaurs and their metal friends and foes are near the road, begging for a photo. Located in 13200 Highway T, Centralia, Missouri. Swinging Bridges Road Just east of Lake of the Ozarks State Park in Brumley, Missouri, two oneway swinging bridges can be crossed by car or on foot. One is steel and the other wood, and neither is for the faint of heart. It’s recommended to cross on foot first in order to feel the ultimate fear when you cross by car. Prairie State Park This tallgrass prairie is home to a herd of bison, ever-changing wildflowers, trails and a top notch nature center. A great place to get out and stretch your legs. Located at 128 NW 150th Lane, Mindenmines, Missouri.
The Garden of Eden Sam Dinsmoor, an eccentric teacher and artist, built the fantastically odd Garden of Eden in the early 1900s on 2nd Street in Lucas, Kansas. His home and over 200 concrete sculptures were designed with his religious convictions in mind. It’s creepy, bizarre and really incredible. Glore Psychiatric Museum A shocking look at how people with mental illness was treated over a span of 130 years; the St. Joseph-based museum offers three floors of artifacts and reproductions of items and “treatment” devices from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries used to treat, control or contain the hospital’s patients. It’s been called one of the 50 most unusual museums in the United States. Uranus Fudge Factory and General Store This stop is a no-brainer for those who enjoy a cleverly worded T-shirt or bumper sticker. Everyone else will like the fudge and general store favorites. Photo ops abound in this St. Robert, Missouri attraction.
Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum This Chanute, Kansas couple brought photos and artifacts back from their visits to far-away lands. From 1917 to 1936, they camped in Kenya, the Congo, Borneo and many places locals had never heard of. Their films, photographs and memorabilia are housed in the museum, and they give a fascinating look at what it was like to travel the world so long ago. Jim the Wonder Dog Museum and Memorial Park The depression-era English setter, Jim, took the world by storm with his intellect and what many believed were psychic abilities. He predicted Kentucky derby winners, the sex of unborn babies, the occupation of strangers and many other baffling facts. A stop here in Marshall, Missouri, will be great for car talk.
Beetle Bailey Statue A bronze statue of Beetle Bailey doing what he does best — relaxing — can be found near the Alumni Center. Mort Walker, the creator of the long-running comic strip and an MU graduate, based the comic at Camp Swampy, which was inspired by his stint at Neosho’s Camp Crowder. Located on the University of Missouri Campus in Columbia, Missouri. Oz Museum The collection of Wizard of Oz memorabilia is impressive and so is the information about the book’s author, L. Frank Baum. There are tons of photo opportunities and a fun gift shop. Located at 511 Lincoln Street, Wamego, Kansas. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Neon splash from the historic Boots Motel in Carthage glints off the polished front end of this 1956 Chevrolet.
Get Ur Kicks!
But for the thousands who travel annually through our neck of the woods, each attraction below is something new and exciting to them. Here are some of the “must-stops” located between Carthage and Miami, Oklahoma along the historic Mother Road.
Written and photographed by Rebecca Haines
Boots Court Motel in Carthage The historic Boots Court Motel is not only a Route 66 icon, but a resting place for travelers. Guests often wish to visit the room where Clark Gable stayed, but other celebrities such as Mickey Mantle and Gene Autry have also made accommodations beneath the green neon.
Plenty to see along ‘66 between Carthage and Miami and Roger Nomer
It’s easy to take for granted the local attractions that bring people from all over the world to Historic Route 66. In fact, we’re so used to many of these places that they tend to blend into the background; in other words, we take them for granted.
Kiddieland in Carthage Here is the world’s smallest amusement park, found in the Carthage Municipal Park and operated and maintained by the Carthage Kiwanis Club. This beloved little kids’ park of rides, including the train that circles the park’s perimeter, opens every Memorial Day weekend and runs every weekend through the end of September.
A Route 66 engraving in Baxter Springs, Kansas. 42
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Nothing quite beats the summer heat of the road than a Route 66-inspired bottle of old-fashioned root beer.
66 Drive-In in Carthage The 66 Drive-In Theatre has provided cinema entertainment from the comfort of parked vehicles since 1949. The McDonald family opened the 2017 season on March 31 with a cinematic bang, showcasing the movies “LEGO Batman” and “Kong Skull Island.” SuperTam Museum in Carterville This unique stop offers a showcase of more than 30 years of Superman collectibles and the taste of Chocolate Shoppe ice cream from Madison, Wisconsin. Owner Larry Tamminen has welcomed visitors for 11 years now, operating on the weekends beginning in March and running through December. Hands of Hope in Webb City You can’t miss these giant-sized hands, standing 40 feet tall atop the hill. In 1974, the site opened so the public could enjoy the work of local artist J.E. “Jack” Dawson. Reflect on the words “Hands in prayer. World in peace,” as you continue your journey west on the Mother Road. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Rainbow Bridge
Schifferdecker Park in Joplin Probably one of the most historical spots found in Joplin, thanks to the Joplin Museum Complex found on the premises. The park was also once the home for an amusement park (with a roller coaster) and a zoo. Today, it’s all about fun under the sun, whether you want to play golf at the park’s popular course, swim at the city’s largest aquatic center, or enjoy a picnic following a long drive. An file photo of the tummy tickling “Whee bridge” in Carthage.
Howard Litch Memorial Park in Galena This roadside attraction beckons to drivers to rest and enjoy this mining town’s downtown area. The Howard Litch Memorial Park opened in 2001 with a gazebo and tribute paid to Will Rogers and the highway named after him. Don’t miss the Galena Jail, or the Galena Mining and Historical Museum. Galena Days is set for June 1-3.
Field of Dreams in Baxter Springs, Kansas The Field of Dreams, established in 1999 by Coach Don Karnes, sits just north of Baxter Springs. America’s favorite pastime is loved on these 12 acres that have been deeded to the city with the school district to take possession in 2024. Bordello Antiques in Galena In 2013, English couple David and Vicky Horbury took ownership of the historic spot at Main and Front streets in Galena. After years of vacancy and the stigma of being haunted by a 19th century murderer, the building now stands in the light, rejuvenated. Inside, find English antiques as well as an official “cuppa tea.” Rainbow Bridge in Riverton, Kansas Two miles west of Riverton, Route 66 drivers can view, snap pictures of and even bump across Rainbow Bridge, which spans Brush Creek. Built in 1923, this single-span concrete marsh arch is the only one of its kind found anywhere on the Mother Road.
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Historic Viaduct in Galena, Kansas Now crossing over into Kansas, hang a right at the “Old Route 66 – next right” sign and travel a portion of old Route 66 dubbed the “Hells Half Acre.” The viaduct was built in 1923. Coleman Theatre in Miami, Oklahoma The Coleman Theatre has continuously operated since it opened as a vaudeville and movie theatre in 1929. Patrons may still enjoy performances at the venue, and see the original Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ. Fort Blair Historic Site in Baxter Springs Civil War historians will want to stop for a bit of history at the Fort Blair monument, the nearby Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum as well as the city’s cemetery Soldiers’ Lot. Learn more about William Quantrill’s attack on the city and the massacre of 70 federal soldiers.
Cars on Route 66 in Galena After your English tea, walk across the street from the Bordello to see Cars on Route 66. “Red,” the fire truck, and two “Tow Mater” trucks welcome guests to this renovated 1920s-era KanOtex Station. This iconic scene opened in 2007.
Gateway Sign in Miami Drivers are welcomed in downtown Miami by the Gateway Sign, a replica of the 1900s signage that once donned Central and C Street across from the railroad station. The original sign was taken down in the 1930s.
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Natural Beauty Thirteen ways to admire the great outdoors Written by Kevin McClintock
Within a 50-mile radius there lies a number of beautiful areas preserved and protected by the hard-working folks of our state conservation departments. These are places where you can recharge your batteries after a hard week of work, leaving the stuffy indoors behind and reveling in the great outdoors. Here are 13 examples. Walter Woods Conservation Area
W here: Just south of Joplin, Route NN south of Redings Mill, 5265 Eland Road. What: Conservation Area Cost: Free Size: 68 acres What people say: “Nice place for family hikes that’s off the beaten path.” and “Great place to bring someone or to be alone, too.” History: The original area was purchased in 1931 by Dr. Otto Walter and workers with The Works Progress Administration (WPA) built many structures here, including a meeting lodge and eight ponds. However, only three ponds remain today. Unique fact: At one time, The Izaak Walton League (a conservation organization) operated an active fish hatchery at this location for several years; it’s estimated more than 1 million fish from here made it to area streams. Activities: Bird watching, hiking on two, mile-long paved trails (each connected by a bridge), and some fishing, though activity in the fishing lake is strictly for educational purposes only. There is a beautiful, stone-lined lodge building, renovated in 1991, that’s used as an education training center for the Department of Conservation. The trails are also dog friendly. Hours: Open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: 417.629.3423 46
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Battle of Carthage State Historic Site
Where: 1111 E. Chestnut St., Carthage What: State Historic Site Cost: Free Size: Several acres What people say: “Hard to believe I’m standing on the place where a battle was fought.” History: This is the location of the final confrontation of a 12-hour Civil War battle on July 5, 1861, between 6,000 Confederate troops and 1,100 Federal troops. A Confederate victory, Union soldiers were forced to retreat to nearby Sarcoxie. Unique fact: The Battle of Carthage was the earliest full-scale battle of the Civil War, preceding Bull Run by 11 days. Activities: The area was used as an encampment site by both armies. The area is little changed in its appearance since the battle was fought on July 5, 1861. An interpretive shelter explains the history of the battle. Group tours are given upon request through Nathan Boon Homestead State Historic Site. Hours: Open daily during daylight hours. Contact: 417.682.2279
Big Sugar Creek State Park
Where: 8th Street, Pineville What: State Park Cost: Free Size: 2,082 acres History: Big Sugar Creek State Park is a rugged landscape of rare shrubs and trees not often seen anymore in Missouri. Unique fact: At one time, the type of landscape called “savanna” covered 13 million Missouri acres. Today, this landscape is nearly extinct. Big Sugar Creek State Park continues examples of this landscape, including dissected hills, steep hills, rock ledges and free-flowing streams. Activities: Visitors can find solitude in hiking through shady upland woodlands and sunny grassy glades while passing near numerous rock ledges. There is a three-mile hiking trail, called the “Ozark Chinquapin Trail,” with opportunities to see local plants and animals, and some wonderful views spanning the rugged Elk River landscape. In all, there can be found 345 different kinds of plants and 134 kinds of birds. Hours: Open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Contact: 417.847.2539
Stockton State Park
Where: Nine miles south of the city of Stockton What: State Park Cost: Free Size: 24,900 acres What people say: “Best experience sailing in my entire life. The water was clear and the weather was great.” History: Stockton Lake was created when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Sac River in 1969. Unique fact: Stockton Lake is known as a “sailor’s paradise” — a perpetual southwest breeze and a nationally-recognized sailing school is housed at the marina. Activities: The park offers a marina with two boat ramps and more than 300 stalls, some assigned exclusively to sailboats, a swimming beach, picnic areas, campgrounds and camper cabins. If you want to stay dry, the park is great for photographing wildlife, picnicking and soaking up some sun. Hours: Sunrise to sunset, year-round. Beaches are open from May 12 through Sept. 10. Contact: 417.276.4529 (Park office)
Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center
Where: 201 W. Riviera Drive, Wildcat Park, Joplin What: Conservation Area Cost: Free Size: 27 acres What people say: “Well-groomed hiking trails, lovely picnic spots, good float stream” and “Great place to bring your kids to see wildlife local to Missouri.” History: The center is a result of a nearly $6 million partnership project of the National Audubon Society, City of Joplin and Missouri Department of Conservation. The center is one of two Audubon Centers managed by Audubon Missouri, a state office of the National Audubon Society. Unique fact: Chert glades, named after the bedrock on which they have formed, host a unique assemblage of plants and animals that may be found elsewhere in the world, but not found together as they are in Wildcat Glades. Activities: The nature center sits adjacent to the last and largest remaining chert glades, a globally unique habitat found only in Southwest Missouri, an important place for migratory birds and other wildlife, such as the collared lizard. Unique plants growing on the chert glades include the flame flower, the widow’s cross sedum, the prickly pear cactus and the Nuttall’s sedum. Facilities include an 11,000-square-foot nature center with a 1,300-gallon aquarium, a terrarium of the chert glades, classrooms, exhibits and a library. Outdoors, there are five miles of trails with eco-type learning stations, a gazebo and a small amphitheater. Hours: Audubon Center: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Trail hours are dawn to dusk. Contact: 417.782.6287
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Fort Crowder Bushwhacker Lake
Where: 527 E. 6th St., Bronaugh What: Conservation Area Cost: Free Size: Lake (157 acres); conservation area (4,790-plus acres) What people say: “It used to be a (fishing) secret.” History: Planning for Bushwhacker Lake began in the late 1970s and actual construction commenced during the 1980s by The Missouri Department of Conservation. Before this manmade watering hole was created, it was just a large prairie. Unique fact: What is a Bushwhacker? During the Civil War, Kansas Jayhawkers ambushed local residents believed to be Confederate sympathizers. In retaliation, those men, known as bushwhackers, banded together and started their own guerilla war against the Union. The guerilla warfare soon spilled over into Missouri, and some fierce fighting took place along Little Dry Wood Creek. Activities: Fishing is the most popular activity on this lake, with largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie and sunfish all living beneath the waters. Habitats provide viewing opportunities for a number of wildlife species and grassland birds (Dickcissels, Grasshopper Sparrows, Henslow Sparrows and Short-eared Owls). Hikers can walk a network of trails spanning the entire area. There is also a 6.6-mile horse trail. Hunting for all major game species (deer, quail, rabbit, squirrel, turkey and waterfowl) is permitted in season. Hours: Open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: Call 417.895.6880
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Where: 17136 Highway D, Neosho What: Conservation Area Cost: Free Size: 2,120 acres What people say: “Clean and pretty, well kept, and great scenery” and “Tax dollars finally used right.” History: This site was the location of Camp Crowder Army Base during World War II; it was the inspiration for cartoonist Mort Walker’s Camp Swampy, the mythical military base that figures prominently in the famed “Beetle Bailey” cartoon strip. Unique fact: Visitors to the area can still see foundations, fruit trees, open fields and other remnants of many of the hundreds of small farms purchased by the federal government for the 60,000-acre base. Activities: The area’s prominent feature is an 11-mile hiking/ bicycling/horse trail dubbed the “Mort Walker Trail,” again a hat tip to the “Beetle Bailey” comic. Pets are allowed on the grounds as long as they are leashed. Sixty percent of the area is forested, and includes white, black, post, blackjack and red oaks, hackberry, elm, black cherry, black walnut and ash trees. There is also an unmanned shooting range at Owl Road with 25-, 50- and 100-yard ranges (closed on Mondays) as well as an archery range on Parrot Road. Hours: Open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: 417.451.4158
Kellogg Lake
Where: Highway 96 in Carthage What: Community Assistance Program Lake Cost: Free Size: 25 acres (lake); 58-acre city park surrounds the lake What people say: “A beautiful place to unwind and relax.” History: Kellogg Lake is cooperatively managed by both the City of Carthage and the Missouri Department of Conservation. Unique fact: In June, kids aged 15 and under are able to catch fish during the popular “kid’s fishing day.” Activities: This 58-acre park encompasses both Kellogg Lake and Spring River. Additionally, there is a picnic area and a pavilion, a concrete boat ramp and a fishing jetty/platform. Kellogg Lake has a fair population of largemouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, common carp, suckers and bluegill. A portion of Spring River flows through the park, including small rapids and a waterfall. Hours: From sunrise to sundown daily. Contact: 417.237.7035
Diamond Grove Prairie
Where: Four miles south of Diamond on Route V What: Conservation Area Cost: Free Size: 852 acres (570 acres is a designated natural area) What people say: “Closest you’ll get to Laura Ingalls ‘Little House on the Prairie’ in Southwest Missouri.” History: Land surveyors way back in the 1840s described this area in modern-day Newton County as “rich rolling prairie” and Diamond Grove Prairie looks much the same as it must have looked way back then. Unique fact: This conservation area is one of the largest tracts of tallgrass prairie remaining in Southwest Missouri. Activities: The area is dominated by native grasses such as prairie dropseed, big bluestem, little bluestem and Indian grass. Additionally, a wide array of wildflowers including Indian paintbrush, blazing star, lead plant, compass plant and royal catchfly. Grassland bird species include the Henslow’s Sparrow while Short-eared Owls and Northern Harriers can be seen there during the winter months. Recreational opportunities include hunting, hiking, bird watching, and outdoor photography. Deer may be found anywhere on the area with quail and rabbit being more common in the brushy fencerows and prairie draws. Hours: Open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: 417.895.6880
Huckleberry Ridge
Where: Located in southern McDonald County, east of Pineville What: State Forest Cost: Free Size: 2,106 acres What people say: “Hills, Hills, and More Hills! It’s quite remote out in parts of this park with lots of hill climbing and nice scenic forestry views. Horseback riding and mountain biking are popular out here” and “completely private, very secluded, you’ll love it if you just need to unplug and enjoy nature.” History: Originally named “Huckleberry Ridge State Forest,” this area, purchased in the early 1960s, was the first large forested tract acquired by the Conservation Department in Southwest Missouri. Unique fact: According to legend, locals used to harvest huckleberries, a type of blueberry, in this area. The area is also home to the Ozark chinkapin tree, which is a close relative to the American chestnut. Activities: Enjoy the beauty of nature, essentially. Bird watching is popular in this area. So is bicycling, hiking or horseback riding on the nearly 18-mile long Huckleberry Ridge Trail. Hunting for all major game species (deer, turkeys and squirrels) is permitted in season. Hours: Open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: 417.895.6880
George Washington Carver National Monument
Where: 5646 Carver Road, Diamond What: National Monument Cost: Free Size: 210 acres What people say: “This is a great place to take the family and it is free” and “This is a very fun place with quite a bit to do and good walking.” History: A unit of the National Park Service, it was founded on July 14, 1943, by Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who dedicated $30,000 to the monument. Unique fact: This is the very first national monument dedicated to a black American and first to a non-president. Activities: Preserves the boyhood home of George Washington Carver, an American botanist and inventor who was born into slavery during the early 1860s. The park offers a nearly 1 mile walking trail, a film, a museum and a fun, interactive area for children. Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact: 417.629.3423 49 MAY | JUNE • JMAG
Travel
Schermerhorn Park
Where: 3501 S. Main Street, Galena, Kansas What: A City-Owned Park Cost: Free What people say: “Schermerhorn Park sure has turned into a beautiful place to take your family for a day of fun.” History: The park was created in 1922. Its maze-like rows of stone terracing and walls were built by workers of the Work Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s. Unique fact: Schermerhorn park is home to some of the rarest animals in Kansas, including rare species of salamanders (inside the cave) and mussels (in Spring River). Activities: The park offers swimming and floating in Spring River, a peek inside a cave, the Southeast Kansas Nature Center showcasing all kinds of interesting and educational displays, as well as walking trails. The park is part of the 55 square mile section of the “Ozarks of Kansas” formed by the geologic feature, the Ozark Plateau, that is in the very southeast corner of Kansas. This region with its caves, sinking streams, and sinkholes is made of Mississippian limestone which was deposited over 300 million years ago. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 1-4 p.m. Sundays. Contact: 620.783.5207 50
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Twin Bridges State Park
Where: 14801 OK-137, Fairland, Oklahoma What: State Park Cost: Free Size: 63 acres What people say: “Beautiful location, a perfect blend of scenery, fishing and wildlife” and “If you are looking to meet genuine good people, Twin Bridges is the place to go.” History: Twin Bridges is named for the two (twin) bridges which carry U.S. Highway 60 over twin arms of the lake, where the Spring and Neosho rivers come together. Unique fact: The park is home to the Wildlife Department’s Paddlefish Research and Processing Center (open Feb. 15-May 15). Activities: Primarily known for its family atmosphere and excellent fishing, including trophy-sized bass, catfish, bluegill and spoonbill. A fishing center with bait, tackle and enclosed fishing dock is located within the park. There’s also available facilities for picnics, TV and tent campgrounds for those wanting to stay overnight. The park also offers one-room lake huts. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Contact: 918.542.6969
» COME JUDGE
for Yourself.
GOLFERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD COME TO CHALLENGE THE JUDGE and the two other golf courses in Prattville at RTJ Capitol Hill. Bring your clubs and come take on Judge hole number 1, voted the favorite hole on the Trail. Complete your day in luxury at the Marriott and enjoy dining, firepits and guest rooms overlooking the Senator golf course. With the Marriott’s 20,000 square feet of meeting space, 96 guest rooms and luxurious Presidential Cottage combined with three world-class golf courses, business and pleasure can definitely interact in Prattville.
THE ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT CAPITOL HILL is home of the Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic on the Senator Course September 18 to 24, 2014. The Marriott Prattville is part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Visit www.rtjgolf.com or call 800.949.4444 to learn more. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Taste Showcasing the newest restaurants or food celebrities in the JMAG area. Written by Kevin McClintock
Cajun Cuisine Bringing Louisiana to Southwest Missouri Cajun: Relating to the Cajuns, especially with reference to their folk music (typically featuring the concertina, accordion, and fiddle) or spicy cuisine. New Orleans is nearly 700 miles straight south from Joplin. But to satisfy that sudden craving for po’ boys, crab cakes and gumbo, authentic Cajun cuisine isn’t as far away as you might think. The Bayou (864 US-60) is owned by a New Orleans transplant Darren Indovina, who came to, as they call it, “Missouriana” following Hurricane Katrina. Opening his restaurant in 2007, The Bayou is his way of sharing the culture and food of New Orleans with his new Midwestern neighbors. And the locals couldn’t be more pleased. The friendly staff serves up New Orleans’ favorites like jambalaya, red beans and rice, oysters and the before-mentioned po’ boys stuffed full and much more. The menu is extensive, and includes steak, creole and classic southern dishes as well. They make a mean shrimp and crawfish boil every Saturday night, but get there early; they sell out. Whether you’re craving a taste of the Deep South or you’ve never tried it before, make The Bayou a JMAG daytrip destination. Want to whip up some Cajun dishes in your own abode and yell out a “I garontee!” like the loveable Cajun Justin Wilson, then here are some recipes for a real taste of New Orleans. 52
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Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Ingredients: • 1 whole chicken, cut up • 2 1/2 quarts water • 2 chicken bouillon cubes • 1 cup bell pepper, chopped • 1 cup celery, chopped • 1 cup onion, chopped • 1/4 cup butter • 1/4 cup oil • 1/2 cup flour • 1 (10 oz.) bag frozen okra (If using fresh, about 2 1/2 cups sliced, and soak the slices in salt water overnight, then rinse before adding) • 2 pounds smoked sausage, cut into 1 inch pieces • Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste • 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic, 4 to 5 cloves • Creole seasoning to garnish
Directions: In large stock pot, add chicken, water, bouillon, and a little salt and pepper. Boil about 30 minutes, or until done. Meanwhile, chop veggies and set aside. When chicken is finished, reserve the broth and set the chicken aside to cool slightly. In large stockpot, melt butter with oil over med-high heat until very hot. Using a wire whisk, mix in flour. Continue whisking constantly until the roux is the color of peanut butter. Quickly add all veggies and garlic. Continue to cook, stirring, about 3 minutes. Slowly whisk in reserved chicken broth. Add sausage, salt and pepper and garlic powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer. Debone chicken, then add the meat to the pot. Continue to simmer about 20 minutes. Add okra, simmer 10 more minutes. Serve over hot rice, garnished with a little Cajun seasoning. Recipe source: www.realcajunrecipes.com.
Real N’awlins Muffuletta Ingredients: • 1 cup pimento-stuffed green olives, crushed • 1/2 cup drained kalamata olives, crushed • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1/4 cup roughly chopped pickled cauliflower florets • 2 tablespoons drained capers • 1 tablespoon chopped celery • 1 tablespoon chopped carrot • 1/2 cup pepperoncini, drained • 1/4 cup marinated cocktail onions • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1 teaspoon dried basil • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar • 1/2 cup olive oil • 1/4 cup canola oil • 2 (1 pound) loaves Italian bread • 8 ounces thinly sliced Genoa salami • 8 ounces thinly sliced cooked ham • 8 ounces sliced mortadella • 8 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese • 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese Directions: To make olive salad: In a medium bowl, combine the green olives, kalamata olives, garlic, cauliflower, capers, celery, carrot, pepperoncini, cocktail onions, celery seed, oregano, basil, black pepper, vinegar, olive oil and canola oil. Mix together and transfer mixture into a glass jar (or other nonreactive container). If needed, pour in more oil to cover. Cover jar or container and refrigerate at least overnight. To make sandwiches: Cut loaves of bread in half horizontally; hollow out some of the excess bread to make room for filling. Spread each piece of bread with equal amounts olive salad, including oil. Layer “bottom half” of each loaf with 1/2 of the salami, ham, mortadella, mozzarella and Provolone. Replace “top half” on each loaf and cut sandwich into quarters. Serve immediately, or wrap tightly and refrigerate for a few hours; this will allow for the flavors to mingle and the olive salad to soak into the bread. Recipe source: www.allrecipes.com. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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MindYourBusiness Spotlighting a new or existing business or event in the JMAG area
These grapes were first planted into Cherokee County soil in 2004.
Written by Rebecca Haines & photographed by Steve Vogel
Vogel Vineyards produces a number of wines, including two whites (Chardonnay and Riesling), three reds (Meritage, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot blend) as well as a “House of Lords” special edition Meritage Reserve, showcasing the art of Carthage’s Andy Thomas.
Vogel Family Vineyards Nationwide locations enjoy home-grown, produced wines from Kansas Springtime bursts into bloom and cluster at Vogel Family Vineyards. In 2004, Steve Vogel and his wife Sheryll planted their first crop of grapes at their home in Galena, Kansas. After vacationing in Napa Valley, California, and considering the knowledge that wild grapes were plentiful in their region, the couple decided that a side-business of winemaking seemed like an enjoyable — and tasty — endeavor. “It’s fun,” Steve said. “People like wine.” 54
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“It’s also a lot of work,” Sheryll added. April was a busy time for the Vogels as they prepared their vineyards to host private appointments, which launched this month and runs through the first of October. Last month was also when grape clusters began appearing in the various rows of vines overlooking the lush, green Reflection Valley. This valley is a unique area where grapes are able to thrive and early spring frosts are kept at bay by fog produced from nearby Shoal Creek.
Sheryll said the view at their residence, poised on nearly seven acres acres in Cherokee County, never gets old — even after 46 years. “You have to appreciate nature for this business,” Steve said. “The view from the valley is beautiful.” Currently, there are 10,000 gallons of wine aging in the Vogels’ production barn. Steve said they are in the process of bottling the harvest from 2010, and the amount of wine produced always depends on Mother Nature’s fickleness. “We’re irrigated so we like dry years,” he said. “We’ve had as high as 50,000 pounds and as low as 4,000 pounds — quite a contrast.” The soil contains bits and pieces of stone, but Steve said that’s what makes for good grapes. Another challenge that goes with the territory is the battle with the birds high above. In the summertime, the vineyards are draped with nets to protect the harvest from drive-through visitors. Unique to other four-state areas where wine is produced, the Vogels’ location next to Shoal Creek provides for slightly warmer temperatures. “If it’s zero (degrees) five miles north, it’s probably five above here,” Steve said, “and that’s a crucial time.” Every year, the production begins with grapes plucked by hand. “When we harvest, we rent a refrigerated trailer and put everything into it,” Steve said. “Then when we get through harvesting, there’s a machine that de-stems it, and pumps the mesh into open tanks. We do open tank fermentation and that takes two weeks.” In the tanks, the grapes are handplunged at least four times a day. Steve noted if the wine rises above 80 degrees, it kills the yeast, so the temperature is constantly monitored and adjusted by cool water circulating through stainless steel pipes snaking around the tanks. After fermentation, the grapes go into a press machine that takes 100 gallons at a time. This produces a mesh substance. “The quality of good grapes, the taste, comes out of the skin,” Steve said. The wine is then filtered into large glass bottles. After aging, the wine is labeled and ready to be shipped across the country. “You’d be surprised where we ship,”
The lush, green Reflection Valley outside Galena, Kansas, is unique in that grapes are able to thrive here; stone in the soil helps the plants grow while fog produced by nearby Shoal Creek keeps the early spring frosts away.
Steve said. “It’s rare for this part of the country (to produce) Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines.” Vogel Vineyards also produces Petite Sirah, Malbec and two whites: Chardonnay and Reisling — all labeled with artwork by Russian artist Alexei Butirskiy. The only exception to this is the special edition Meritage Reserve, “House of Lords,” a Route 66 wine that bears a painting by Carthage artist Andy
Thomas and is named after the infamous downtown Joplin saloon. Vogel Vineyard wines are also labeled with a “1-5” alcohol rating based on the German scale. Today, Vogel Family Vineyards bottles may be ordered online from www. vogelfamilyvineyards.com. To schedule a tour, a wine tasting or if you just have questions about the wine-making process, call Steve at 417.434.1900. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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MindYourBusiness
A fireplace and decorative tile reaching to the ceiling dominates the Post Art Library’s main room.
Postmodern
In a dazzling new space, the Post Art Library enlivens its mission as a vital cultural resource By David O’Neill Photography by Kevin McClintock
During their remarkable lives, Joplin philanthropists Dr. Winfred and Elizabeth Post brought caché and cultural awareness to the city. Several years after they passed, Mrs. Post in 1976 and Dr. Post the following year, the Post Art Library opened as a well-deserved homage to the couple. Fast-forward nearly four decades, and this month the Post Art Library — also known as PAL — marks a watershed moment at an exceptional new space within the Joplin Public Library’s new 56,000-square-foot headquarters. There, PAL carries on its decades-long mission: heightening public awareness of matters the Posts held in high regard: art, architecture and historic preservation. PAL executive director Jill Sullivan says the new space enables PAL to grow in two vital ways. First, as an organization she describes as “relevant to today’s expectations and standards for informational organizations, such as libraries and archives.” Second, the expansion also “allows us 56
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to become more involved with other aspects of meeting our mission — providing arts-related programming, events and exhibitions.” Getting a Read
Towering ceilings, walls of windows that let all the light in, and a splashier, more striking palette that includes teal, reds and charcoals bring about “an atmosphere that, from a patron’s point of view, is much more comfortable,” says Post Art Library executive director Jill Sullivan.
“It’s quite a contrast,” says Sullivan, characterizing PAL’s new space in comparison to its former. That space evoked the Old World, Tudor-style ambiance of the Posts’ East 15th Street residence. Dark woods, antique furnishings meticulously collected during the Posts’ travels abroad and more subdued lighting made for a reading experience not particularly characterized by comfort. Conversely, the new PAL space is a construct of meticulous research, planning and execution by an immenselytalented collective of architects, designers and builders. Towering ceilings, walls of windows that let all the light in, and a splashier, more striking palette that includes teal, reds and charcoals bring about “an atmosphere that, from a patron’s point of view, is much more comfortable,” Sullivan says. Plush, contemporary seating further engages visitors. In addition to a dedicated art gallery for artists’ shows, says Sullivan, “we have ample additional wall and shelf space, as well as four fantastic locking
White lettering, painted onto the finished antique table top, greets guests at the entrance to the Post Art Library inside the new Joplin Public Library.
glass cases for displaying collections and curating exhibits.” All Access
Sullivan is “most looking forward to PAL being more accessible.” Back on Main Street downtown, PAL went about its business in a small wing in the library’s corner. At its new environs, it operates in a higher-visibility location with considerably more foot traffic. “Not only do we have a more prominent space within the building, but the hours of the Post Reading Room are the same as those of the public library,” Sullivan says. “We’ll contribute to JPL’s by providing materials for their circulating collection. We’ll also continue to offer arts-related periodicals for checkout and further develop our historical resources.” The PAL’s comprehensive collection of books, archives and other materials are now housed in a shared storage space with JPL’s Local History and Genealogy Department. This, in turn, makes its local history and historic preservation materials available to JPL staff, and thus to researchers, when PAL staff is not present.
Within the Post Reading Room, PAL still maintains a collections of roughly two dozen periodicals, mostly fine artand arts-related titles. “We’ll see how people use the resources and better know how to respond accordingly,” Sullivan says. Expanded PAL hours allows Sullivan, who took over for predecessor Leslie Simpson in 2015, to more effectively carry out her responsibilities. “It facilitates my research and better allows me to be more present in the community, giving presentations and handling outreach efforts.” All-Inclusive Engagements
Sullivan says PAL will continue to promote area art culture with exhibition openings, receptions, literary readings and workshops—only with a technologically evolved approach. “We’ll be equipped to offer screenings, to host panel discussions, have outdoor events, and more,” she says. PAL will continue to seek out unique artists and techniques. Paper marbler John Bielik, a specialist in historic marbling styles, will demonstrate his work at PAL early in July, Sullivan will also collaborate with area organizations like Connect2Culture, with which PAL hosted National Poetry Month this past April. The Spiva Center for the Arts, meanwhile, will hang pieces from its own collection on PAL’s walls. A new PAL “Makerspace” will offer opportunities to experiment with an inclusive range of left-brained pursuits, and PAL will also continue to partner with JPL to appeal to younger patrons. Recently, it’s done so via mail art projects, Post-It® note art shows, and programs like “Children As Artists,” a collaboration with Art Feeds.
FROM STAFF REPORTS Jacque Gage, director of the Joplin Public Library, hopes she can sum up the reaction of the new JPL building in one word. “Wow!” she said with a chuckle. New facts and attractions that will be found inside the new JPL include: • The new library is almost doubling in size, from 34,000 square feet to 56,000 square feet • Construction took around 18 months. • 170 parking spaces (up from 60) • Drive-up book drop box • Four meeting rooms of various sizes, and able to combine to seat 220. • A coffee lounge • Outdoor seating for reading and relaxing • An enlarged children’s area • A teen area • More self checkout kiosks • Post Art Library and history-genealogy • Two creation-spaces, one for teens and one for adults. • Several flexible creation-stations:
Ideas for the new library were originally placed on paper. Now, this multi-million dollar project is nearly complete.
tools and support services such as booklet and brochure publishing, video production and/or editing, audio recording or editing and 3D printing. Even as you read this, the Joplin Public Library, sitting on the old footprint of the historic Connor Hotel, is no more. The Main Street location is being emptied, with books transported to the brand new JPL and will open at its new building and location at 20th and Connecticut Streets, tentatively, on May 25. A grand opening for the library will be held on Saturday, June 3.
The main entrance to the new, 65,000-square-foot Joplin Public Library, which faces 20th Street in the center of town.
Big-Picture Thinkers
Even minds as creative as the Posts’ might not have conceived that the organization founded in their name could log such growth and, consequently, leave quite an indelible a mark on both the Joplin art community and the community as a whole. “They were very much about progress and about furthering that mission,” Sullivan says, “so I think they would be very pleased.”
Joplin Public Library Director Jacque Gage speaks about some of the innovative features the new library will have. The library will open this month. MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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Style Highlighting the latest trends and styles in clothing and accessories. Photography by Bailie Broadwater
Clothing and accessories from:
Blue Moon Boutique 613 S. Main Street, Joplin
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Bethany in grey dress, $38
Katie in floral dress, $34 and bracelet, $28
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Style
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Kinzie in plaid dress, $20
Bracelets, $8
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Style
Lisa in black romper, $43; Bethany in off the shoulder dress, $38
Stephany in ruffle top, $34, frayed bottom jeans, $42 and necklace, $48
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Lisa in wrap dress, $128
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Stephany in white top, $36 and floral kimono, $37
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TheJList
Five things you should know about a person, place or thing. Written by Kevin McClintock
Joplin’s Top Tourist Spots So we’ve highlighted in this issue some cool travel destination spots found abroad. But what about here at home? More importantly, what are visitors saying about the tourist attractions here in Joplin? Below are five highly-rated destination spots here in Joplin, according to Trip Advisor.
1
Grand Falls
Tourist comment: “There is always that quieting of the soul that accompanies a visit to Mother Nature and some of the adjoining pedestrian footpaths are a joy to explore.”
3
Northpark Mall
Tourist comment: “I had to kill some time and went to the mall. It has a good mix of stores and they all had good variety. The food choices were good. The mall staff were friendly. They had a bunji jump set up for the kids. Good experience.”
4
Cunningham Park
Tourist comment: “It’s a nice park for kids, families, couples and everyone else. Lots of space, paved walking trails, ponds, fountains, playground equipment, swing sets, a swimming pool with slides, and an amazing memorial and educational area that commemorates the EF-5 tornado that hit Joplin in May 2011. The landscaping is also nice. The parking lot is well maintained. A nice place to be for about 1 hour or less (or more if with kids), depending on who comes with you. It’s close to Freeman Hospital and where St. John’s Hospital (now relocated and called Mercy Hospital) was before the tornado. The nearby pre-tornado location of St. John’s Hospital is also a memorial area.”
2
George A. Spiva Center for the Arts
Tourist comment: “Wonderful place to visit whether you’re a local or just passing through. What I’ve read indicates they do change out the art displays so if I get an opportunity I will be back to see what’s next here. Loved this place! They offer classes and other activities too so check out what they may have to offer you. Support artists!”
5
Joplin Museum Complex
Tourist comment: “There is a great mineral museum in the park that shows off many of the minerals collected during the early 1900s from many mines in the Tri-State area, great displays of minerals and history both, it even looks like a mine as you enter it inside the museum building.” MAY | JUNE • JMAG
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PartingShot A picture is truly worth a thousand words. Photography by Roger Nomer “Neon Curtsy” Malinda Davis shields herself from the rain last year beneath the soft green glow of a neon “curtain,” which is unique to the architecture of the historic Boots Motel on Route 66 in Carthage.
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s $ 20 d i K LY N O
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800.831.4FUN (386) • BransonWhiteWater.com|
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The game can get tough. The care should be up to it.
Concussion can happen to any athlete in any sport. If your child suffers a head injury, bring them to Mercy’s Concussion Clinic. Dr. Kennedy identifies concussion, teaches you the signs and treatment and will determine when your athlete’s ready to play again. Learn more at mercy.net/HardKnocks Russell Kennedy, DO Mercy Clinic Sports Medicine Stone’s Corner 6151 N. Main St. Rd. | Webb City, MO 417.781.0408 Mon-Fri 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sat-Sun 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
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