As
the dusk of 2015 settled, On December 31st, I sat in my living room Composing a new verse
For tomorrow, the dawn Of the New Year will be here A new opportunity A new hope to hold dear As I’m a believer in dreams No matter come what may I believe If we want a better life I believe we must live it today
I see a world where people Work together for common good And by common I mean global Involve our whole earth it would I see a world where cultures Live together in harmony Instead of turmoil and conquest Learn how a better world to be
So I invite you to join me As I imagine a new world A world that could be A world whose flag’s yet unfurled
For every culture has its merit Has its traditions, so precious So to destroy another’s culture Is both tragic and malicious
For we all are cosmic matter Hurtling through space Our time here but fleeting Our lives but a wisp; but a trace
For no longer will race or creed Be a cause for separation Skin pigmentation, really? A cause for discrimination?
But the time that is spent here Is truly all that will matter; Will we add love to our earth home Or with loathing, our home shatter? For either way this earth Through space will still spin It is indifferent to our standing; Whether we lose or we win
Sure, we’ve all made mistakes Wishing we could turn back the clock But what’s been done, is now done Dwell not on a past you can’t unlock But with both family and friends Reflect on both the good and bad And then renew; focus your efforts On the more good that can be had
That does not mean for a moment That our home we should destroy How thoughtless this would be This earth’s not some toy!
But not just for yourself But for others around you Remember we’re all cosmic travelers On this ball of earth blue
We should cherish our home For it’s future we should champion Not only for ourselves But for its future companions
So we must all be aware We must all something do For it’s a shame if one’s capable To make someone else carry you
So how do I envision Our world as it should be? Through this person’s eyes, Let me share what I see... I see a world of waterfalls A world of sunsets and green grass, Of sunrises and blue skies Of societies without castes Where a person can share Their dreams and ambitions Without fear of persecution Or misguided derision A society that values the elderly A society that shows care A society that sees wisdom As something to share
My father once told me, “Son, to do what you love is the key. For if your love is your work, Then work it won’t be.” And thus it would be With an attitude of virtue Of camaraderie and selflessness We will achieve what’s our due So as 2015 closes Let us all thoughtfully reflect Let’s make 2016 A year of hope, not neglect
As
filming of Interview A Monster continues in the area we wanted to gives thanks to some of the talented locals who are involved. Some are inspiring actors, some are crew, some are students from SEMO and other schools getting college credit. They come from all over the area; Cape, Jackson, Fredericktown, Ste. Genevive, Farmington... It truly is a community effort. Interview A Monster, a 90 minute feature film, has been shooting scenes in the area for two months. The production is scheduled to wrap early April 2016. The film, starring Tom Green, Les Stroud, Stacy Brown, Jr., Jessi Combs, Brian Kowalski… is slated to premiere at the American Film Market in Santa Monica, CA late 2016.
Elise Edwards -Cape I live in Cape Girardeau and I’m sixth grader at St. Paul Lutheran school in Jackson. I got my first role as Molly in “Annie” at SEMO a while back and instantly became passionate about musical theatre. I’ve done voice festivals, won many local talent competitions, and was eventually cast in SEMO’s “Macbeth,” “The King & I”, and the lead of JoJo in this summer’s “Seussical the Musical.” I’ve performed at the St. Louis Muny in both “Seussical the Musical” and most recently, “Oklahoma.” I like golf, swimming, and archery. I’ve always dreamed of being in a movie with a speaking role and working with professional actors. Getting to perform my own stunts such as rolling off the cliffs, running through the woods, and jumping over rocks has been my favorite part of filming so far. Running and climbing around the Offsets was the best. Seeing the behind the scenes make up application of the monster was so funny. He kept choking on his own hair! I hope that both Interview A Monster and my role get noticed by the Academy of Motion Pictures.:)
When the economy fails, a young, successful New York City ad man is forced to boomerang back to his small hometown in the Ozarks only to find two things; nothing’s changed and everything’s changed. Interview A Monster is an odd comedy with a dysfunctional protagonist, a twisted narrative, and a series of events that build into a shocker of an ending. You can learn more about the production and the folks behind it at workingtitlex.com.
Taylor Asberry -Cape I am an acting Major at Southeast Missouri State University. This is currently my senior year so I am looking forward to graduation and pursuing a career in acting. Ten years ago my first big break was in a little film called Apocalypse and The Beauty Queen. I was also featured in the first issue of the 573 Magazine where I talked about going to public school for the first time. Time sure does go fast. Now at 23, I am interning for Interview A Monster and acting in a supporting role. For my degree I am required to work in a professional environment pertaining to my degree. For this production I am working as a personal assistant which means any odd job is my job. It was just my luck that I could work with Mr. Smugala and Mr. Fahey again with new faces as well. My role in this film is minor but helps show an important key point for a certain character. Though the part itself is quite odd being a young teacher with an affinity for her own students, but it’s a role I’m excited to try. It’s amazing to be working with such a fantastic cast and crew and here’s hoping for a great future for Interview a Monster.
Gracie Trokey -Farmington I’m a fifteen year old sophomore at Farmington High School. I live with my mom, Vanessa, my dad, Donnie, my seventeen year old sister Lucie, and my twin brother, Sam. I love school and my favorite subjects are math and English. I really enjoy participating in speech and debate, running, singing, playing piano, babysitting, and hanging out with my friends. Ever since I was young, I’ve always loved acting. From the first grade I’ve done plays, Christmas recitals, and participated in choir. Last year, I was also involved in a musical at MAC called Urinetown. I love everything about performing in front of audiences, and entertaining people. My favorite genre is definitely comedy, because my sense of humor is my favorite attribute. Making my friends and family laugh is the greatest part of my day. I also love singing, because it makes me so happy. People often neglect the lyrics in a song, but I love to analyze them and imagine the artist’s motives for writing the song. Music takes me to a whole other world, and without it, my life wouldn’t be complete. In the future, I would love to attend Truman State University, major in finance, and eventually become a financial advisor. My dream, however, is to become a comedian for Saturday Night Live. It’s my favorite show, and throughout the seasons, I love seeing the new comedians, characters, and skits they come up with. I would love to be fortunate enough to be one of the creative minds involved in that production. In Interview A Monster, I play a self-centered teen named Lilly and I get to perform with Les Stroud and other actors.
A J Koehler -Sedgewickville I’m a homeschooling mother of three. I’m from Sedgewickville and help my father run an archery business. In my spare time I paint and write, among many other things. My passion is film though. I’ve been acting in films since I was nine years old and landed a small role in an Italian film called Brothers and Sisters. I started getting serious about wanting to make movies in college and have helped make several independent films in this area. So far this has probably been the most involved I’ve been and the most fun I’ve had working on a production. I started working on this film as a PA and was blessed with the opportunity to work with several talented people, learning more than I have on any other film to date. When I got the role of Rainy Farris, I was ecstatic! I absolutely fell in love with the character. I laughed so hard shooting the interview that I nearly needed a wardrobe change! I’m so happy to have been a part of this and hope to have the opportunity to help with future Working Title X projects.
Jeff Evans -Desloge I have never allowed myself to get bogged down into one career and because of that I have had a successful and entertaining life. Some of my highlights would include being involved with radio for many years as a station program director and talk show host. I have been a magazine publisher, writer, and creative talent. I owned a horse training facility where I trained horses for mounted patrol units from all across the county and have even been a chamber of commerce president. You only have one life so make the most of every minute, say “yes” more and “no” less often. This is my first experience with an indie film, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised at the cohesiveness of the crew. In most working situations there are some infighting and organizational issues; not here. It was amazing to see a large group of people come together and lend their talents towards achieving one goal. To the entire crew, my hats off to you! In regards to my contributions, I built the cage that traps Tom Green, I am the jerk in the movie making fun of Les Stroud in the bar, was Tom Green’s body double, got to jump off cliffs and keep certain people from falling off of them, was the “Squirrel Wrangler” and just the general hand who was willing to help in any way I could. By far one of the most exciting times one could have on a film set. I got my start in this through Mineral Area College’s Internship/Job Shadowing program. It’s a three credit hour course where you document your internship for a local company. After 90 hours of interning you write about your experiences. It’s that simple. While not everyone is cut out to go into filmmaking it could be a rewarding career.
Vivian Myers -Fredericktown I’ve been in cosmetology for four years now. When I opened that door and began my journey, I never thought I could have so many opportunities that would come my way. It has helped make me believe more and more in myself. I really believe whatever it is we want in life or out of our careers, we just have to keep at it. I could be the poster child for any motivation effort. Little did I know two years later, I would begin doing hair and makeup with the 573 MAGAZINE which would open more opportunities. I was chosen last spring to be a part of Interview A Monster. I not only get to do just “hair and makeup,” there’s so much more to it than that!! When a director says he wants the character to give off this image, I get to create the looks!! I also get to create hairy creatures for many of the scenes, beards, casts, and my favorite, creating wounds, and making them realistic! On set, our days seems to run together working 10-12 hr days, just enough time to grab a bite, bed then at it again!! I think the BEST part of working on the film is the wonderful crew I work beside and the great talent I get to meet. Tom Green seemed to have a great time on set with our crew and is really a great actor… Jesse Combs (did Overhaulin w Chip Foose, fastest chick on 4 wheels in the world, etc.) was a BLAST!! Great soul, plus looked pretty gnarly in a car-chasing scene that took alllllllllll day in the HOT sun!! Then we have Les Stroud, most of you know him from Survivorman!! He’s definitely the same in person as he is on his own show. This whole experience has been one of the most FUN, coolest things I have done thus far. It has taught me anything is possible and I will continue to keep seeing what all I can achieve.
Dennis “Denny” Boyd -Farmington I live in Farmington with my beautiful wife and wonderful three children. I’ve owned a used car dealership for over 15 years. I also own and operate St. Louis Picture Cars, a movie prop and car company for motion pictures, stlouispicturecars.com. We typically provide a vehicle and props specific to individual characters in a motion picture. In addition I have done numerous other duties and films such as producer, stunt driver, set mechanic, transportation, and occasionally, an actor. My prior film experience gave me the opportunity to become a co-producer on Interview A Monster, utilizing many of my skills behind the scenes. As a picture car coordinator, I work with the director to find the best vehicle to match each of the character’s roles in the film. Once the cars have been picked out, I begin adding props to vehicles such as antennas, decals, license plates, etc. I then transport vehicles to the sets and begin working on some of these cars for the stunt scenes. I’ve also assisted the director, producers and some of the actors on set. There’s a lot of things that go on behind the scenes that you don’t see when watching a movie. Team work! I don’t know of any creative person who’s not doing multiple things at once and inspiring to do yet another thing. I really enjoyed doing what I do in the film industry and working with a lot of great cast and crew! Looking forward to see this great movie!
Today you are a happy and healthy individual—if you are lucky. You are able to do just about anything without any extra help—if you are lucky. Life would be pleasant if it could continue this way forever, right? Unfortunately, the future is the most unpredictable aspect of life and the only true constant you can really depend on. We all know we have to save and prepare for a comfortable future— equipping our lives with suitable amenities is no crime. But how much time should we really spend on worrying about what might come or making ourselves too comfortable? Are we sacrificing our present by worrying about the future? From your career, to your family, to your health, to world issues… things seem so unpredictable today because of the complexity of our society and the voracious appetite the media has for our time. When you work in factors like luck, randomness, and chance, the unpredictable nature of life can stress you out. It is just unrealistic to think you can control everything. You can’t.
Instead, deal with the certainty of an unknown future. Embrace the chaos. Focus your energy on only the things you CAN control, which are YOUR thoughts and YOUR actions! Controlling your thoughts and actions will help you live in the present moment. Force yourself to focus on what’s really important in your life—your family, friends, health and the rest. Living in the here and now is the only truth. Without all the worry and stress of an unpredictable future, you’ll be more productive in everything you do. So get out there. Take that walk in the park, start that new hobby, get that new job, sign up for that class, try new things…
Start spending your time
MAKING SOMETHING HAPPEN TODAY!
Recently I was invited to the Peck Ranch
Conservation Area to learn about the Missouri Elk program. Once plentiful in the area, elk were all gone from Missouri by 1865. In July 2010, the Conservation Commission directed the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to reinstate plans to restore elk to a suitable area in southeast Missouri. Welcome to the Peck Ranch. After more than 150 years the hills around Peck Ranch Conservation Area once again echo with the bugles of elk. I met up with David Hasenbeck, Conservation Department’s Elk Program Manager at 5 am. Yup, you have to get up early if you want to see elk. It was one of the most interesting mornings I’ve had in a long while. David and I met up with Joe Roy and Micah Walker, Wildlife Research Technicians with the University of Missouri. These two spend every day following the elk around, collecting data for the scientists and researchers at the university. A big part of their job is to radio track, dart and collar the elk. It’s David’s job is to manage the overall operation of the elk program and in the field, he’s one of the guys who darts the elk. How would you like to have this job? Very cool. Admittedly, not a get rich quick scheme, all the guys will tell you straight up, they have the best darn job in the world. Their passion for what they are doing filled the truck for hours. What a day! All in all, the Peck Ranch Conservation Area is a very beautiful place, but when you see the elk in the morning mist doing their elk stuff, it is just a stunning experience.
My name is David Hasenbeck. I am a southern Missouri native and Graduate of Southeast Missouri State University who has spent nearly 25 years working as a wildlife biologist in the Missouri Ozarks. I lived and worked on Peck Ranch Conservation Area the first ten years of my career so it is very exciting to come back and work with the elk project. 573: Tell us why Missouri brought the elk back. MDC is mandated to manage and restore the forest fish and wildlife of the state of Missouri. Elk are native to the state, and it is part of the MDC mandate to restore species lost to the state when feasible and reasonable. Likewise there has been strong citizen interest in an elk restoration for years. 573: Tell us about the Peck Ranch. Peck Ranch was a cutover 36 square mile chunk of eastern Ozarks that the MDC acquired because it was home for some of the last remaining wild turkeys in the state. MDC implemented habitat management to improve conditions for turkeys and as the turkey population grew over the years, wild turkeys from Peck Ranch were used in restocking efforts across Missouri as well as a couple other states. Peck Ranch Conservation Area is important for restoration efforts such as wild turkey and elk, but this area of the Ozarks is also a very high priority ecological area with many other unique plants and animals. The Conservation Department and their public and private land partners continue to remain very active in managing all area lands for the benefit of wildlife and the region is now a jewel of eastern Ozarks conservation.
Peck Ranch Conservation Area is in northwest Carter County and eastern Shannon County, north of Fremont. The area consists of 23,762 acres of rugged, forested hills and hollows. Limestone and hyalite glades provide natural openings among the oakpine forest that dominates the region. Narrow ridges range from 900 to 1,000 feet in elevation. The area’s highest point is Stegall Mountain, 1,348 feet above sea level. Rogers Creek and Mill Creek, which flow into the Current River, meander through the area. Peck Ranch began as the dream of a wealthy Chicago businessman. After acquiring 19,000 acres along Mill and Rogers creeks, George Peck and other investors established the Mid-Continent Iron Company. Peck’s dream included clearcutting Peck Ranch to supply the 100 cords of fuel per day needed to fire the smelter’s blast furnaces. He employed 200 families and installed his own teams to haul cordwood. The company town which sprang up around the smelter became known as Midco. During World War I, the area continued to boom. The U.S. Government spent $3.5 million to install a wood alcohol distillery at Midco to be used in making ammunition. This period of prosperity was brief. The low-grade iron ore mill at Midco folded after the end of the war and a flu epidemic ravaged the Ozarks. Peck returned to Chicago. The workers who remained in the area tried to make a living on the abused land. When prohibition ended, the demand for white oak barrels surged. Griffith Stave Company bought the remaining timber rights on Peck Ranch and revived the area’s timber industry. The boom was short-lived, and Peck Ranch was once again for sale. In 1945, the Missouri Department of Conservation purchased Peck Ranch for wild turkey management. Today, diverse management techniques, including prescribed fire and forest products harvesting methods, are being used to maintain and restore the many natural communities on Peck Ranch. 573: Tell about the elk. Watching – and hearing – wild elk is an awe-inspiring experience you can enjoy right here in Missouri. The Conservation Department worked with local communities, landowners, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and other conservationists to relocate more than 100 wild elk from Kentucky to the restoration zone in Reynolds, Carter, and Shannon counties in 2011. For great opportunities to view Missouri’s wild elk in their natural environment, take the self-guided driving tours at Peck Ranch. 573: Do they wander off from the area? Most of the elk spend most of their time on Peck Ranch and the surrounding area, we do have a few animals who tend to stay in other areas not far away and we may occasionally have an individual animal taking a foray out of the area. Our radio collars tell us that about 80% of locations still fall on Peck Ranch and we will probably see that number slowly decline over time as the herd grows and spreads. The fact that the herd has remained around the release site is a testament to all the good habitat work conducted in the area around the release site. Even as the herd grows and extends its range, Peck Ranch will always likely be the core of Missouri elk habitat.
The animals are not fenced or restricted in any way but the majority of the herd still spends most of their time within the elk zone. Peck Ranch Conservation Area represents about 10% of the elk zone and the elk are spending about 80% of their time on Peck Ranch proper and less than 10% of their locations have been outside of the elk zone. 573: How many elk do we want in Missouri? Target population is 400 to 500 elk within the elk zone in portions of Reynolds, Shannon, and Carter counties. It may take up to twenty years to reach these numbers. 573: Will people ever be allowed to ever hunt elk in Missouri? Yes. We hope to be in position to offer limited managed hunt in the future when the population grows. It may be several years before we will be able to offer a managed hunt and it may initially only be a few permits. As the elk herd grows, we then hope to be able to release more permits over time. 573: Do the elk pose any danger to hikers or peepers with cameras? No danger to outdoor recreationists, but just as any other wild animal encountered in the field. elk should be given ample room to move though when encountering them in the field. 573: How can people see the elk for themselves? The self-guided driving tours have become a popular tourist attraction year-round – especially in October, when bull elks are bugling as part of their mating ritual. The best times to see elk and other wildlife are right after sunrise and right before sunset. To help visitors find elk, MDC has designated driving-tour routes, shown on online maps of the Conservation Atlas: maps of Peck Ranch CA and Current River CA. Signage at the sites directs you to the driving routes. The tour routes are open sunrise to sunset daily, unless closed because of inclement weather or a managed deer hunt. The driving tour routes at Peck Ranch are closed for managed hunts select dates, October thru December. For information about elk driving tours at Peck Ranch CA, call 855-263-2355; for information about the Current River CA, dial 573-663-7130. Maps and other information are available at the Twin Pines Conservation Education Center, one mile east of Winona on Route 60. Twin Pines is open Tuesdays thru Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. People are encouraged to take photographs from their vehicles, but please do not disturb elk or other wildlife in any way. It’s important for visitors to know, gravel roads on Peck Ranch may not be accessible to vehicles with a low ground clearance and some roads may be impassible at times, because of high water at stream crossings.
It’s the day after Christmas and New Year’s resolutions are beginning to swell my brain like yesterday’s swollen belly. I’m sure if you are anything like me, this time of year you are bombarded with emails, conversations, and thoughts about new year’s resolutions. It seems the reason so many of us fail to achieve the resolutions we set for ourselves is we focus too much on the process of achieving those goals, rather than focusing on why we want to achieve the goal in the first place. If you can spell out why you want to reach the goal, you will have a better chance of actually reaching it. So we know setting goals is important, but more importantly, you have to get started. Many people can’t get started because they tell themselves, “I can’t do it,” instead of asking themselves, “How can I do it?” When you tell yourself you can’t do something then your brain then tells you to head back to the sunken sofa and turn on the television. The truth is some of us will spend all our free time watching TV or on the computer while others will be at the gym exercising our bodies and trying to figure out “How to do it.” Simply put, not starting and achieving goals is directly related to laziness. Like it or not, it is laziness and fear of failure that holds most people back from achieving their dreams. If you want something badly enough you will find a way to make it happen. That’s a fact! If you develop a positive attitude and develop new skills and abilities you will somehow find the financial capacity to achieve them. One step at a time you will begin to uncover new opportunities as long as you don’t tell yourself, “I can’t do it.” Keep in mind that with the Internet, social media, and the globalization of the marketplace, it’s easy to be sucked into a false sense of easily obtainable success. Remember, sooner or later you have to put a lot of effort into your goal. It’s all about asking, “How can I do it?” Think about that.
It’s freezing out. The thought of putting on your runners and hitting the road is a chilling prospect. According to Men’s Fitness Magazine, the best way to stay moving in the winter is to sign up for a spring race. If you sign up for a race, you then have the WHY all figured out. As a winter runner myself, here’s a few tips to help you work right through the bitter cold weather. Dress warm, but do not overdress. When you first get outside you’ll feel cold, but you do not want to overheat. Dress in layers with a hat and running gloves. Your feet will produce enough heat to stay warm. I’ve found you won’t need more than regular running shoes. Wear shoes with thick tread or buy traction slipovers for your regular shoes. Traction cleats with metal spikes for anti-slip will do a lot to prevent slipping or a fall. Slow everything down. Slow your warm up down. You will need more focus if you run in the winter. Trying to mess with your phone will take your concentration off the road. If it’s icy or slushy, you have to be extra careful. Slow your pace way down. Actually slow your entire program down from the length of your run to the music you listen to. Warm up slow, walk, then slow jog and then increase to an easy run. Focus, focus, focus. The last thing you need is an injury or an excuse to not exercise at all.
I am a big advocate for small business and doing what you love. Sure, it’s more difficult to follow your dream; it involves belief in yourself, passion and tightlycrossed fingers, but the benefits are many. When you chase your dreams, you often have to make hard choices and sacrifices - mostly time and money. But, after many years of helping business owners market their businesses, I’ve come to realize most are happy to make time and financial sacrifices to do what they love. As a business owner myself, I have no need for shopping sprees or mindless hours of TV to anesthetize myself from regrets. Instead, I find peace in doing what I love. From the outside, I am sure there are people who view following their dreams as too daunting a task, but tears and fears are a part of life once you’re off the sofa. When you are pursuing a dream, you have everything to look forward to and no time to waste on indecisiveness. It’s impossible to know true satisfaction without first experiencing hardship. We were born to laugh and cry; to feel pain and uncontrollable laughter. We were born to live in the moment, but rarely are we able to do so. Doing what you love will bring you as close to living in the moment as possible. Although there may never be a perfect time to change your life, now is the perfect opportunity to move toward living out your dreams. The present economy is ripe for hardworking entrepreneurs to be successful, as 80% of all successful companies are started in recessions. As the economic tide slowly begins to turn, I think this may be the perfect occasion to start a new business. But first, you will have to face your fears: fear of failure, fear of criticism, fear of the unknown. The benefits you gain from doing what you love make those fears easier to overcome. The realization that you are in complete control of your destiny is the biggest high anyone can imagine; it makes the sacrifices bearable. Being able to plan and orchestrate your own life is the greatest gift you can give yourself. The cool thing is, you can have it all, as long as you don’t need it all. That is the single best benefit of doing what you love: It’s uncomplicated once you conquer the doubts.
Before you even begin to think about what is the best business to start is you need to do a little research. But don’t lose sight of the fact that the best business for you is the one that interests you and inspires you to do great work. That’s where doing what you love will pay off. If you love what you do, you will be better able to handle the long hours because it won’t seem like work. This is exactly what many people lack in their day-to-day jobs, so it doesn’t make sense for you to start a business that puts you in that same position. Don’t start a business doing what you hated doing for the last 10 years for someone else. Choose something that you are genuinely passionate about. It’s that passion that will make the difference between success or failure. Maybe your town lacks a shop that offers a particular product, or maybe you can do something cheaper. Be careful here thinking you can provide a similar product or service but offer it cheaper is the fastest way to the poor house. It’s far better to provide good service at a fair price, than bad service and product at a cheap price. Sure, you’ll make the first customer sale, but you’ll lose your repeat clients. And if you don’t know the difference between customers and clients, this should be where your research begins. If you have an idea for something, finding people that share a similar interest may give your idea validity and viability. Ask around and do a few simple surveys of the people in your area. Keep in mind you can’t assume that just because a certain business is doing well in one place, it will also do well in your area. Most importantly, don’t lose sight of the fact that the best business for you is the one that interests you and inspires you to do great work. That’s where doing what you love will pay off: You will be better able to handle the long hours because it won’t seem like work.
This
morning I was once again asked to choose some of the best images from all the 573 publications in 2015. With the pressure of the deadline approaching, tensions are always running high—no problem, I love pressure. After rounding up all twelve 2015 issues, I sat down and began trying to narrow it down to 50 images. Yikes, it’s a job. While reviewing the images, I am reminded of the blood, sweat and tears that went into covering these stories. We laughed with you and we have been pleasantly surprised by you. We’ve learned some hard lessons and made a few mistakes onlong the way. But our lives have been touched by amazing people, places and things. We get to have way too much fun doing this. We meet awsome people. We go to fantastic places. We taste incredible food... and we haven’t even scratched the surface. We have exciting plans for 2016 and we can’t wait to get out there and see more. As usual, I’m an optimist at heart... In the end, having too many wonderful images and stories to review is a good problem to have.
It has been a pleasure to cover the 573. Heading into our 10th year, we look forward to 10 more!
When the ice, snow and cold temperatures
arrive in Missouri, most folks just hunker down inside, watch television and deal with cabin fever. I’ve heard all kinds of excuses as to why one can’t get out and enjoy nature – mostly concerns about falling, hypothermia, and frostbite. But before you fall into a deep winter hibernation there are ways you can stay safe this winter while you’re enjoying the outdoors.
Check the weather and be prepared. Limit your time outdoors if it’s extremely wet, windy or cold. To prevent the chances of frostbite or hypothermia, dress in layers, wear a hat and scarf, use mittens instead of gloves, and keep your feet warm and dry with wool socks. A moisturewicking layer close to your skin with a middle layer of fleece covered in a waterproof jacket or coat is ideal. To prevent falls, choose shoes with good traction. Walk slowly like a penguin with your feet flat, arms out and take short steps. Use hiking or trekking poles for added stability. Avoid walking on ice if possible. For added safety, take a friend, a fullycharged cell phone, a first- aid kit, and a few snacks. Don’t forget to tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Practicing these strategies will ensure a fun, adventurous day of exploring Missouri in winter. From watching winter birds and identifying animal tracks, to discovering frost flowers, there are lots of things in nature that can help beat those winter blues. Sara Turner is the manager of the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. She enjoys many outdoor activities including caving, hunting, hiking, fishing and canoeing. She also delights in helping Missourians discover nature. Sara resides in Jackson with her husband, Travis, and their two boys, Nolan and Caleb.
The Missouri Department of Conservation’s Cape Girardeau Nature Center is focused on helping people discover nature year-round, especially in these colder months. The center has indoor exhibits, a wildlife viewing area, scheduled programs, and a two-mile nature trail to help visitors discover nature. Here’s a sampling of events planned for January and February to help make your winter as enjoyable as possible: Feeding Frenzy Thursday, Jan. 14, 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, 1-2 p.m. Join Nature Center staff and volunteers and watch them feed the center’s reptiles, amphibians and fish. This program is offered every month. A smorgasbord of crickets, worms and minnows is on the menu. Primitive Arrow Making Saturday, Jan. 16, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Use Native American techniques to make a primitive arrow. Only materials native to Missouri such as river cane, turkey feathers, deer sinew, and pine pitch will be used. Each participant will have the opportunity to make an arrow. Tree Tapping 101 Saturday, Jan. 16, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. This program starts at the beginning of the process; it starts with collecting sap. Learn how to identify Sugar Maple trees and know if they’re right for tapping. Then try your hand at tapping a tree. This program only covers tree tapping. The maple sugaring process comes full circle Feb. 13 at the Maple Sugaring program. Participants are encouraged to dress for cold weather when attending this event. Tree Walk: Winter Tree ID Saturday, Jan. 30, 1-3 p.m. Warm up with a winter walk. To really know trees, it helps to be able to identify them without the help of a leaf. The Winter Tree ID event will focus on expanding tree identification skills past leaf identification and reach for other features that are unique to tree species. Dress warmly for a hike along the Nature Center’s Ridgetop trail. The Great Backyard Bird Count Feb. 12-15 This is a way to enjoy and help nature right at home. Count birds in your backyard, at a local park or anywhere. Involve your whole family and participate anytime throughout the weekend. Bird populations are constantly in flux and no single scientist or team of scientists could possibly document their complex movements and distributions. By counting birds on this weekend, you’ll help scientists by providing information they’ll use for the “big picture” about what’s happening to our bird populations. Get more information about this project at www.birdsource.org/gbbc.
Maple Sugaring Saturday, Feb. 13, 1-4 p.m. Go back to the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center for the final part of the maple sugaring process. Maple sugaring is rich in history and is still actively practiced. Learn the history, equipment and process of making maple syrup. Around the Fire with Lewis and Clark Friday, Feb. 19, 6-8:30 p.m. Join Nature Center staff and volunteers around the campfire and explore the stories of Lewis and Clark. They, along with the Corps of Discovery, traveled west discovering new plants and animals along the way. Discuss how things have changed since then. Hear a tale or two and enjoy a hot beverage by the fire. Women’s Winter Trout Fishing Saturday, Feb. 20, 9-11:30 a.m. Women ages 12 and up are invited on a quest to catch a rainbow. Join a group to search for the elusive Rainbow trout at Rotary Lake in Jackson City Park. Learn fishing tricks and techniques from the experts. Everyone must have a valid Missouri fishing permit and those who wish to keep their catch must have a trout permit. Family Duck Decoy Carving Friday, Feb. 26, 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cork duck decoy making is an art the whole family can enjoy. Bring the family and learn duck identification, duck ecology and decoy history as you each sculpt and paint your own decoy. Cost for materials is $15 per person. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center is located right off of Interstate 55, inside Cape County Park North. For more information about these and other events, go online to mdc.mo.gov/CapeNatureCenter. The Nature Center even sends text reminders about their events. To sign up for this service, text nature to 91212. The article titled Conservation Nature Center in the September issue of 573 stated the center “resides under the auspices of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.” However, the nature center is a Missouri Department of Conservation facility.
According to TV and the Internet, we are facing tragedy if we vote for the wrong person in 2016. The Earth’s magnetic poles could change; a new Ice Age could begin; super storms and volcanoes might plague the land; maybe there’ll be a race war or an ISIS invasion; what if the Democrats give all our money away; what if Socialists take our guns; what if Fascists will be controlling our speech and Conservatives will move into our bedrooms? It’s gonna be one busy year. I’m not sure how I am going to find the time to accomplish my New Year’s resolutions with all this going on.
in the true spirit of the election year, I want to make a few predictions: 1. Politically correct speech app… With all the need for politically correct speech, I predict someone will invent an app. You simply speak into your phone and the app makes your communication perfectly acceptable. Example: I went to the pet store to get dog food, and I ran into the rudest bag boy on the planet. App conversion: I took my earth-unfriendly, carbonchallenged mode of transport to the oppressed-companion guardian supply store to get some differentiated entity food where I was confronted by the most nicenessdeprived, agricultural product organizer in our endangered habitat. I really need this app. 2. Online family planning… This new system does away with the need for a spouse or other human contact. You simply log onto the site where your computer scans your DNA and measures all your likes and dislikes via electrical impulses. You are then assigned a cyberspouse. Your DNA is refined and a baby, any age, sex, race is delivered directly to your home—no strings attached. 3. Smell-O-Vision… Sony will release its new Smell-O-Vision products this year. While the actors walk through a sunny field of poppy, you will smell the flowers. That Taco Bell commercial will take on a whole, new dynamic. And when he takes his shoes off in the Odor Eaters commercial—well you get the idea. 4. Smell-O-Vision bootlegging… Yes, the government will have its hands full as they try to control illegal smells. 5. Doomsday Credit Card… I actually predicted this for 2012, but the end of the world didn’t happen that year. 2016 could be the year. With this card you can buy anything you want. A new car, Blu-Ray, cosmetic surgery... If the end doesn’t happen, you’ll just have to pay it back at a premium interest rate. 6. Cats will learn to talk… Cats all around the world will begin to speak. They will organize and begin to infiltrate the governments of all countries of the world with intentions of world domination. Within the year, they will enslave the human race leaving us as full time scratchers, feeders and litter box cleaners. In all seriousness, 2016 is going to be a great year. Take advantage of all the opportunities that are in front of you. Try not to focus on all the negative hype floating around. Remember, the media is planning to capitalize on your fears. Don’t give them what they want.
In 1996, Antoine Adem escaped religious
persecution taking place in Lebanon for a better life in the United States. As a Christian in Lebanon, everyday presented a new chance of harm. Countless were the nights he spent in bomb shelters. Just traveling to school presented snipers from west Beirut with targets. In 1995, while on a pheasant hunting trip to the Bekaa Valley, he was kidnapped and held hostage by the Syrian Intelligence. Luckily he was released and his parents convinced him to find a better life. He found his way to Missouri, gained a great education, started a family, and launched a successful cardiology practice. His latest accolades include bringing a Cath-Lab (at his own personal expense) to the region helping thousands of people live healthier and longer lives. Antoine Adem enjoys spending time with his wife and children, traveling, dining, wine tasting and gardening. But it’s his passion and energy for lifesaving that sets him apart. He also has a charitable foundation that takes care of orphans and disabled children in Lebanon. Admittedly, this is what brings the most peace to his heart. Antoine and his wife, Claudine, met at a church party in St. Louis. Antoine found a way to get her phone number and took her out to dinner a few weeks later. At the time, he was doing his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Missouri Columbia so he had to travel three hours on the weekend to visit Claudine in St. Louis. They were married September 26, 1999. They have 3 children. Carla, is a freshman in high school, Anthony, grade 7 and Gabriella, grade 6. Claudine says, “The children are all very gifted as far as school goes, especially in the area of math. Carla and Anthony have participated in various math competitions and all three children have been recognized in many different ways for their math skills.” Today Claudine is the corporate Treasurer of Midwest Cardiovascular and has held this position since 2010. She manages the day to day operations of both the Festus and Farmington offices. She takes care of employees, salaries, controls the finances and manages any problem that may occur in the office. Claudine enjoys working with her husband and managing the business—there’s a lot to manage.
Antoine M. Adem, M.D., F.A.C.C. completed his fellowship in Cardiology at the University of Missouri in Columbia in 2002 and was Chief Fellow at the Department of Cardiology in 2001. For three years he was a clinical instructor of Advanced Physical Diagnosis at the University of Missouri School of Medicine. He then served as Director in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Jefferson Memorial Hospital and Medical Director at Premier Heart and Vascular Specialists. Dr. Adem is board certified by the American Board of Cardiology, American Board of Vascular Medicine, American Society of Hypertension, North American Society for Pacing and Electrophysiology, Certification Boards of Nuclear Cardiology, and American Board of Internal Medicine. His research has been published in the American College of Cardiology as well as the Journal of American Heart Association. He has maintained ongoing research in the field of cardiology as well as received numerous awards for his work.
Researchers have found a low risk of life-threatening heart problems among patients with chest pain that have normal cardiac blood tests, vital signs and electrocardiograms. Studies also show that many patients who go to emergency rooms with chest pain (99.4%) do not require a hospital stay. Ok, now imagine the agonizing trip a cardiac patient would have to make to obtain a heart catheterization in St. Louis! Can you imagine the wasted resources! The ambulance cost! Or, best case scenario, the patient would have to arrange for a driver, take time off from their children and/or work, and suffer all the traffic on the city highways in order to obtain the same procedure that can now be done close to home. And that is what this dynamic doc has done for the region. Bringing this technology into the area will surely save lives.
The new Midwest Heart and Vascular Center in Farmington is the first of its kind in the eastern region of the State of Missouri. It is a state-of-the-art specialized emergency and operating room that deals with symptoms related to heart disease and vascular problems. When I was first invited to learn about this place, I was a little hesitant. After watching Dr. Adem work, I have to admit it was an amazing experience to say the least. The technology and the skill employed took me totally by surprise.
Inside the operating room was much more like a computer lab than any kind of operating room I have ever witnessed. It was like watching an orchestrated production through the inside of the human body in real time. There is no way to really explain what I witnessed. It was simply fascinating. Cardiac catheterization is the procedure where a catheter (a pre-shaped straw-like pipe) is advanced through the skin of the groin or the wrist to access the heart’s blood supply (coronary arteries). Percutaneous intervention is a non-surgical method that opens narrowed arteries that supply blood to the heart, brain, kidneys, and extremities. And then at the leading tip of this catheter, several different devices such as a balloon, stent, or cutting device can be deployed. And you watch the entire thing via a specialized x-ray monitor. I’m talking the entire inside of the patient in REAL TIME. WOW! This technology has been available in the St. Louis area since the early 1980’s. Until today the residents of the counties of St. Francois, Sainte Genevieve, Madison, Washington, and Iron had to travel miles and miles to receive even the basic diagnoses and treatment of heart and vascular blockages.
573: Please tell us what it is you do for patients. I feel that, by bringing the Midwest Heart and Vascular Center services to Farmington, I would have accomplished the most merciful and charitable act for our elderly population: expedited their diagnosis and treatment, and saved them the hassle, cost and inconvenience of driving to St. Louis. They are already burdened with their diseases; the least we can do is alleviate their pain by providing better care closer to home and making it accessible and affordable. (It is well-known that the cost of care is significantly less in the outpatient, private cardiac laboratories when compared to a hospital-based catheterization laboratories.) The presence of a campus such as Midwest Heart and Vascular Center accessible to the population of all the neighboring counties located between Festus and Cape Girardeau is not only a necessity but it is vital to the growing and aging populations of these areas.
573: Does a “cardiac cath” always include a stent? Studies have demonstrated that up to 80% of cardiac catheterizations end up revealing blockages that either are not significant or are better treated with medications and not needing surgeries or interventions. 573: Is it safe to have a “cardiac cath” outside of a hospital? I have owned and operated free standing catheterization labs in St. Louis since 2010, where we have safely performed more than 5000 cardiac and vascular procedures without the need of being inside a hospital. 573: Shortness of breath. What does that have to do with the heart? For people with shortness of breath and the never ending confusion of heart failure versus lung disease, our center offers right heart characterization and left heart catheterization which allows us to measure the filling pressures of both right and left hearts. This allows a clear cut diagnosis of emphysema versus heart failure versus the other causes of pulmonary hypertension.
573: You mentioned that you are an endovascular specialist. What does that mean? That means I specialize in ‘poor circulation.’ Poor circulation can be related to veins or to arteries. At Midwest Heart and Vascular Center, the vein center deals with all forms of lower extremity swelling, non-healing ulcers, varicose veins, with a non-surgical approach. When it comes to peripheral arterial disease, we were the first in the St. Louis area to treat arterial blockages and hardening of the arteries in a freestanding outpatient facility. 573: When we first met, you talked about ‘time is muscle.’ Can you clarify? When it comes to heart attacks, ‘time is muscle.’ Many patients who are transferred from Farmington and surrounding counties by the time they arrive to the nearest catheterization laboratory to have their heart arteries opened, the heart muscle section compromised is already dead, and they are left to deal with a weak heart (heart failure). This is if they were lucky enough to survive the trip. Due to weather conditions, helicopter flights are not always possible and ambulance drive time is considerable. 573: What kind of advice can you give to keep a healthy heart and vascular system? The best advise I can give is: eat a heart-healthy diet and exercise. Do the exercise you like. Stationary bike, elliptical, treadmill or water aerobics (simply walk in the pool). The most important factor is to get your heart rate up in the 120130 bpm (220 - age x 70%) and keep it there for 30 min at least 3 times a week.
According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, if you encounter a feral hog while hunting shoot it on sight. Feral hogs may be taken in any number throughout the year. During most of the year, no permit is required and any method, including baiting and the use of dogs, is allowed. I know that sounds harsh so read on. What is a feral hog and why are they so bad? A feral hog in Missouri is basically any kind of swine that is roaming free on public or private land. Feral hogs can include Eurasian or “Russian” wild hogs and an assortment of hybrids (Yorkshire, Hampshire, Durocs and others) that have escaped into the wild or have been released for hunting purposes. It’s illegal to release a pig into the wild for any reason in Missouri. Feral hogs cause a wide variety of problems for private landowners as well as fish and wildlife managers. Wild hogs are destructive to natural areas such as glades, ferns, and springs. Their tendency to wallow in wet areas can destroy these important, sensitive habitats. Feral hogs also cause significant damage to agriculture, including row crops and pastures. The biggest threats to agriculture is the potential transfer of disease from infected feral hogs to domestic swine herds. Feral hogs are known to carry swine brucellosis and pseudorabies. Both of these diseases cause problems for domestic sows and piglets. And feral hogs can reach a size of three feet in height, five feet in length, and more than 400 pounds in weight. With this much weight, speed and sharp tusks, wild hogs are nothing to mess with. Recently, we met a family who actually hunts these beasts. They do not use modern ambush hunting; they track wild hogs in the ways of our ancestors with bow, arrow and spear.
My name is Amanda Koehler We’re a very large, mixed family. My mother already had three children, a daughter, Angel, and two sons, Andy and Jason, from a previous marriage when my parents were married. My tenacious father tried multiple times for a son of his own to pass on his name and ended up having four girls, Amanda (me), Jennifer, Lisa, and Katie. Yes, the count is now at seven. My father, who has a Masters in Biology, was an environmental consultant for many years. He is an academic, but also loves the outdoors. Despite the hard, grumpy exterior that he tries so hard to display, he still is a loving father and a great teacher. From the time we were very small, he would educate us on a variety of subjects ranging from the sciences to the arts. Some of my oldest and most cherished memories of my father is watching scary movies when I was sick and getting up in the middle of the night to go look at the shooting stars and eat Rolos. He also helped me learn more about the world around me by helping me collect and identify a number of both plant and insect species, and by teaching me about North America’s geological bounty when helping me with my rock collection. He also taught me how to use and hunt with a variety of primitive and modern weapons and tools, including the traditional bow. Now I help my father run a family owned archery and survival supply business, Four Corners Archery, LLC. My mother, I’m sure, is the reason for my father’s soft side. An academic herself, my mother’s passion lies in the bettering of souls. She’s most joyous when able to express through art. She loves to sing and write. She now works as a counselor, is a long standing member on our church council, and has her own business, Natural Solutions. A big believer in using natural remedies and coping strategies rather than addictive and for the most part toxic pharmaceuticals, she does whatever she can to help people make better life decisions and to mend relationships in a healthy way. It has always been my mother’s dream to own a large amount of land where her children could bring spouses, build houses, and raise their children right where she could be, see, and enjoy the fruits of her extremely large family tree. When my parents got the opportunity to get this place, they jumped on it. Now we are raising chickens, rabbits, and milk goats. We also have three horses and a donkey, but really they’re more like giant unemployed roommates than utility or income animals! We have six different gardens that we keep. Though they are not quite enough to allow us to be fully self-sufficient, that is the end goal; the gardens are teaching us exactly how much work is behind such an agenda.
Our farm has even been on television. We were featured on Nat Geo’s Doomsday Preppers on the Shepherds and Wolves episode in August of 2014. They were interested in us because we prepare for the future by understanding how people survived in the past. We study a number of ancient traditions that we have not only become proficient in, but continue to teach to others through our survival skills workshops and youtube videos. Most of the primitive weapons we use, we make ourselves. My father makes atlatls, darts, arrows, spears, and Yorkshire darts. My husband, Adam, makes bows, homemade pine pitch, and stone knives and arrowheads. Using these tools is not only rewarding but also a major challenge. Anyone with a steady hand and decent eyesight can hunt deer with a gun and scope from as far as 200 yards away, but it becomes more difficult and requires more stealth and skill to sneak up close enough to take one out with an atlatl or stick bow.
Every March we go on a hog hunt. We hunt as a team, taking down one hog at a time so as to not leave any seriously wounded to die in the wilderness and be “wasted.” Much like our ancestors, we try to use every bit of the animals we hunt. Hide, bones, tendons, and teeth are all used for various things after the meat has been removed and processed. Among all of the primitive weapons that we make and use, the atlatl is probably one of our favorites and definitely the most asked about. Atlatl is an Aztec word which literally translates to spear thrower. In 2012, the Missouri Department of Conservation legalized the use of the atlatl for deer hunting during firearm season. In 2013, they approved the use of archery tags for the atlatl, and by 2014 it became legal to use any of your tags for the atlatl with the exception of firearms turkey spring season. My father, husband, and brotherin-law all hunt with theirs. They hunt both deer and wild boar with the atlatl. I myself have only used my atlatl for demonstrations and competition so far.
My morning cup of coffee is a ritual. I wake
up, and on most days end up at the local coffeehouse before work. Not because I love spending money at coffee shops—my perpetual procrastination leaves little time to make it myself. One particular day, a few months back, I met an elderly gentleman that still has me thinking. He said something I still can’t understand. He was in his late 70s if I had to guess. He wore a knit cap, a multicolored sweater and wooden-sole shoes that clacked as he walked. Everything about this guy was interesting. He asked me to join him while I waited for my coffee. So being basically comatose, and I knew he wasn’t hitting on me, I agreed. He told me he lived in a retirement village nearby, and that he comes there every day to enjoy his morning coffee. Soon I understand the real reason he’s at the coffee shop—this guy gets what he wants—he wants to talk. He was so full of personality, and had reached that comfortable old age where he couldn’t care less about what anyone thought of him. His loudly stated opinions were shocking at first, but I have to admit it was so refreshing to be around someone who told the truth about what they really thought and welcomied debate. We talked about siestas in Spain, the cost of oil in foreign countries, local issues... and the last thing he said to me before my order was up was “Move away from America as soon as possible, while you are still young.” I grabbed my coffee and headed out the door still trying to digest what he just said. Months later, I wish I understood what caused this man to want to leave what is arguably the greatest country in the world (I say arguably because half the world will disagree.) I mean, we have; free Wi-Fi, a Food Network, Bigfoot, clean drinking water, and on your birthday, free cake and ice cream at any given restaurant—what more could you ask for? In 2016, millions of people will fall in love, get that well-deserved promotion, take a dream vacation, or even just finish a series on their Netflix queue that’s been mocking them for months. And while everyone’s priorities differ, we should remember to breathe every once in awhile, and not stress about what’s going to happen when, or who’s going to do what. We can’t predict the future and letting go of trying to do so makes life much more enjoyable. As the cliché goes, not knowing is half the fun.
John and Vanessa are area locals.
They attended Catholic grade school, then went on to Notre Dame High School, and ultimately to Southeast Missouri State University. Along the way they picked up experience at white tablecloth restaurants where they met and were finally married. Last year, with the help of financing from the Bank of Missouri, they began work on their dream of opening a restaurant in downtown Cape. The property took six months to renovate including complete demolition and a ground up rebuild with a lot of the handwork being done by John and Vanessa. What they built is a cozy, welcoming spot with a dining room that is special but not stuffy. It’s an intimate space and features artwork and decor inspired by the Great Gatsby with Erte style prints, a grand mirror, and an antique buffet.
All they needed was a chef who could prepare the type of food they envisioned for the establishment now that the building was completed. John and Vanessa had previously met Chef Houston Sutton while working downtown and the three immediately became friends. The trio developed an understanding that if they ever had the chance to open a restaurant, Houston would be the chef. When the restaurant became a reality, Houston stood behind his word and is now an integral part of 36.
Restaurant & Bar serves what is sometimes called “American Food.” But what is American Food? We think American Food is more flexible than other cuisines and has the ability to quickly adapt to inputs from the world’s established and emerging foodways. The menu at 36 Restaurant & Bar reflects this American Food philosophy. Your meal will be influenced with flavors and techniques from France, Italy, Wales, and New Orleans as well as great old world dining rooms and American chop house favorites. The menu at 36 Restaurant & Bar is seasonal without being overbearing. Ingredients change to keep the offering fresh but favorites like the Steak and Frites, the House Salad and apple coffee cake, and the Soup of the Day, seem to linger… as they should.
The future holds options including expansion into catering as well as opening a classy speakeasy, live music juke joint, a longtime dream of theirs. The wine list is always growing with the goal of being awarded with Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.  John and Vanessa opened 36 Restaurant & Bar because of their love and passion for the restaurant business. The hours may be long, but it doesn’t seem like work for them. They enjoy people, food and wine, and hosting the guests. There is never a dull moment. With that going for them no wonder everything is coming up roses.