(618) MAGAZINE HOMETOWN SEPTEMBER 2021
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(618) EDITOR Andrea Howe ahowe@mtcarmelregister.com
from the
EDITOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Maegan Saalwaechter
CONTRIBUTORS Kim Bayless Tim Martin Mona Warrick Corey Woolsey Erin Zinzilieta-Pennington
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Hello September, and hello 618 Hometown neighbors! The weather’s still plenty warm, but those of us who love the crisp fall weather know that it’s just around the corner! In a few more weeks, we’ll be bobbing for apples and enjoying apple cider, but before we get there, Kim Bayless has three scrumptious takes on apples. Corey Woolsey offers the story of Ryan Turner’s transition from police work to the ins and outs of running a city, and Mona Warrick showcases the collection of a retired Grayville school teacher. Be sure to check out Mona’s centerpiece story detailing young Carmi golfer Oakley Gee’s trek to the U.S. Junior Amateur at Pinehurst. Carmi’s two-time state individual medalist John Given coached and served as his caddy for the national event! September is the month for an event that draws churches and families from across the state to Carmi during Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services Fall Festival. Check out that story, which details all the fun in store, and information about the services provided by the organization. Check out our calendar to be certain not to miss the fall festivals coming around the bend…and be sure, if you have an event in November, to drop us a line before Aug. 25, so that we can feature it. And, when you’ve experienced all the activities in store for September, settle in your favorite chair and have a look at Erin Zinzilietta-Pennington’s ideas for making your home your sanctuary. We thank our many readers across our neighborhoods who have gone out of their way to tell me how much they enjoy reading our magazine. We couldn’t bring these stories of our neighbors free to your mailbox without the support of our advertisers. Next time you’re in their business, be sure to thank them for their support. Until October, happy reading — and thank you for allowing us to share your stories! — Love and blessings to you!
Andrea Howe Editor
(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021 3
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gram. Turner graduates with his master’s degree in December.
from behind the
badge desk to behind the
WRITER: COREY WOOLSEY
Timing is often everything, and as Turner was pursuing his degree, Rudy Witsman, retired City Clerk, was preparing for life after public service. “Rudy told me that he was planning on retiring and that I should entertain the idea of the position,” Turner said. Taking over for someone with Witsman’s knowledge can be a daunting challenge, but Turner said that his predecessor has guided him through much of the process. “His knowledge is invaluable,” Turner said. “We talk on a regular basis. He really took me under his wing. He comes up and checks on me. I couldn’t have asked for an easier transition.” As for the job, Turner said it is something new everyday. “Nobody really knows what this job is until you get into it,” Turner said. “You are human resources, you are tracking down everything from trash cans to trees falling on homes as well. A lot of little jobs fill up your day.” Another new aspect of the shift from peace officer to city manager for Turner was a new working relationship with Mayor Joe Judge and the Mount Carmel City Commissioners. Turner said the relationships that were previously built help make that a smooth transition. “I have been an active member of Kiwanis with Erik Ikemire and Justin
Former Mount Carmel Police Chief Ryan Turner recently moved from
Dulgar for years, so I have had a great relationship with those guys for a
one service to the community to another, now serving as City Clerk for the
long time,” Turner said. “Tom Meeks promoted me to sergeant and detec-
City of Mount Carmel.
tive when he was mayor. I have known Susan Zimmerman and her family
After a 20 1/2 years with the Mount Carmel Police Department — the final two years as chief and 11 years prior to that as a detective — Turner reflects fondly on his ability to help those in need in the community. “We had a couple cases where there was sexual abuse going on in the
for a long time as well. It has been an easy transition.” With many major projects going on in the city, and now being a big part of those projects, Turner looks forward to huge progress in Mount Carmel.
household and luckily we were able to get those stopped,” Turner said. “I
“It is exciting to see some of the infrastructure changing,” Turner said.
wish we could have got it stopped before it started but those cases are the
“We have a lot of possibilities here, we just have go to get to a point of find-
ones that stick with you.”
ing the finances, that is pretty much what it boils down to.”
Turner retired from the Army National Guard three years ago, and for that he had a bit more free time. He looked into furthering his education. “When I retired from the military I realized I was coming up on the end of my law enforcement career. I had a good run, but I was ready to look toward something else.” Turner said her looked at several programs, and was accepted at Indiana University and its online public administration master’s degree pro-
When the decision to make a move to a new career path was necessary, Turner is happy he could stick to the roots he has planted in Mount Carmel. “For me, I just want to see the city grow and become a little more aesthetically pleasing,” Turner said. “My three daughters go to school here, my wife works for the hospital, and with all the good things going on there, hopefully we can spread that throughout the town.”
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Your home as a sanctuary WRITER: ERIN ZINZILETTA-PENNINGTON It has been said that your home should be your castle. I couldn’t agree more. I’d say that from now until next May, life is going to be stressful. In the coming months we will be preparing ourselves to battle yet another round of Covid and possibly Variant D, not to mention, winter illnesses like influenza A and B. We will probably be spending a great deal of time indoors. Therefore, your home should become a retreat. Staying at home is not an issue for me. I am a homebody and there are few places I’d rather be. However, for me to be content I require a few necessities. I need a bright and airy environment. I prefer lighter paint choices to dark and I like a bright white background instead of beige. I like to have multiple options when it comes to food, drink, and snacks. I don’t require anything expensive but I do play favorites. I love yogurt with fruit and a nice glass of tea, hot or cold. I need something to do. I enjoy reading, writing, working out, baking and sewing. As long as my sewing room is fully stocked with fabric; I am happy. I can spend hours and days sewing quilts and doll clothes. Keep what you enjoy in your home. In the event we experience another “shelter in place” you need to have entertainment. An elderly aunt of mine is shut-in most of the time. She enjoys jig-saw puzzles, word searches, and reading magazines. Keep your interests on hand. A beautiful environment is important to me. Again, it doesn’t have to be fancy, but a soft blanket, cozy pillow, low lighting and a lovely scented candle makes for a pleasant home. As we face another season of uncertainty, make your home a sanctuary where you can find solace.
ERIN ZINZILIETA-PENNINGTON is a 2010 graduate of McKendree University and a 1994 graduate of Eastern Illinois University. She possesses a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education English. She has been an educator since 1994.
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Community Events SEPT. 4
SEPT. 25
Olney Chamber of Commerce – 9:30 a.m.
Olney City Park
Olney Chamber Bicycle Classic
OAC Fall Festival of the Arts and Crafts
SEPT 4
SEPT. 25
Edwards County Fairground — noon
Homestead Vineyards – West Salem - noon
Eighth annual RECVFD Fish Fry and Rodeo
Woof and Wine Fest
SEPT. 4
SEPT. 30, OCT. 1-2
Crossville Attendance Center – 6 p.m.
Downtown Enfield
2021 Crossville Alumni Banquet
100th Enfield Mule Days Festival
SEPT. 15-18
Fairfield Fall Fun Fest
SEPT. 18
2021 Fall Festival
Illinois Baptist Children’s Home & Family Services – Carmi – 10 a.m.
SEPT. 23
West End Summertime Cruise In
GET ON THE CALENDAR Want to see your event on the (618) Hometown Magazine Event Calendar? Send us an email at:
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8 (618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021
As American as...apple cake, crostata, pork chops! WRITER: KIM BAYLESS
PHOTOS: TIM MARTIN
“A seed hidden in the heart of an apple
among many others. Certain varieties are listed as being better
is an orchard invisible.” - Welsh Proverb
options, depending on what you are planning on cooking. I personally prefer a tart apple for pies, but will use whatever I happen to
One of the most popular fruits is the apple. It comes in many
have on hand.
shapes, sizes, colors, and varieties. There are the standard Red
This month, I’m highlighting three apple recipes that will send
Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and MacIntosh. Added
your taste buds wanting more. I hope you take time to prepare
to the list in recent years are Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady and Honeycrisp,
something wonderful from the fruit of the month — APPLES!
APPLE CAKE WITH VANILLA SAUCE 1 cup sugar
¼ cup chopped walnuts
¼ cup shortening 1 egg, lightly beaten
VANILLA SAUCE:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking soda
2 Tbsp cornstarch
½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup light cream
¼ tsp salt
½ cup butter
2 cups shredded peeled tart apples
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
In a mixing bowl, cream sugar and shortening. Add egg and mix well. Add the dry ingredients; mix well. Fold in the apples and walnuts. Spread in a greased 8 inch square baking pan. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until cake tests done. For sauce, combine sugar, cornstarch and cream in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla; stir until butter is melted. Serve warm over the cake.
PORK CHOPS WITH APPLES 3 Tbsp butter, divided
1 tsp chopped fresh sage
4 bone in pork chops
3 apples cored and thinly sliced
½ cup + 2 Tbsp apple cider, divided
Salt and pepper to taste
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. In a large skillet, melt 1 ½ Tbsp butter over medium heat. Season the pork generously with salt and pepper; cook for 6 minutes on each side or until deep golden brown. Add ½ cup cider to the pan and place in the oven for 10-15 minutes. The bake time depends on the thickness of the chops. While the pork is in the oven, in another skillet, cook the apples in the remaining butter over medium heat for 5 minutes. Add the remaining 2 Tbsp of apple cider, turn the heat to high and cook for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt to taste. After the pan comes out of the oven, transfer the pork to a plate. Whisk the mustard and sage into the cider drippings; season to taste with salt and pepper. Place the apples on the plate with the pork and pour the sauce over the top.
CINNAMON-APPLE CROSTATA 1 pie crust
4 cups thinly sliced peeled apples
½ cup sugar
1 tsp sugar
4 tsp cornstarch
2 Tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
2 tsp cinnamon Heat oven to 450. Unroll pie crust in an ungreased 15x10 pan. In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup sugar, the cornstarch and cinnamon. Add apples; toss gently. Spoon mixture onto center of crust, leaving 2 inch border. Fold edge of crust 2 inches over apple mixture; crimp slightly. Brush the crust edge with water; sprinkle with 1 tsp sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Sprinkle with nuts over the apple mixture. Bake 5 to 15 minutes longer or until the apples are tender. Cool 30 minutes before serving.
(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021 9
Five-fold ministry serves Illinois families BCHFS fall festival Sept. 18 at Carmi campus WRITER: ANDREA HOWE Thousands of families have been ser ved over the past centur y by Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ser vices, and for the past 22 years, a festival homecoming at the Carmi campus celebrates the work and the families. BCHFS Marketing Director Paula Joy said plans are under way for the Sept. 18 Fall Festival, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the grounds of that campus just south of Walmart in Carmi. Joy said ever yone is welcome to come to the campus and enjoy the festival. BCHFS receives no federal or state
who have ser ved. Past residents have come, too. It’s a homecoming of sorts.” BCH’s mission for years was to care for orphaned children in need of care. Over the years, the ministr y has changed to focus on the needs of dependent, neglected and/or abused children. The name was changed in 1995 to Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ser vices to reflect the five-fold ministr y of the crisis center to help struggling children and families.
funding, but receives support from churches across the
BCHFS offers residential ser vices at the Carmi cam-
state. “Ever ything we do is supported through individu-
pus, of fers Angels’ Cove Maternity Center in Mt. Ver-
al, church and some business donations,” she said. Many
non, Faith Adoption Ministr y, GraceHaven Pregnancy
of those churches set up carnival-style booths on the cam-
Resource Clinic and Pathways Counseling.
pus for a day celebration. Ever ything’s free, she noted. “The festival is just a time to gather to thank our donors and friends, a time to be on the campus. It’s always a great day. We welcome people who want to lear n more about us,” she said. Cottage tours are
Joy said the residential care in Carmi offers an option for teens who have conflict at home or behavioral issues to live on campus and attend public school. Angels’ Cove provides a temporar y home for young women who are pregnant and need a support system.
planned, as well as a silent auction of items donated by
Faith Adoption Ser vices provides international and
supporters, conducted in the gymnasium. Joy said women
domestic adoption ser vices, and Pathways Counseling’s
from across the state make quilts that are auctioned.
faith-based licensed counselors have offices several com-
COVID-19 canceled the gathering last year, but the quilts
munities, including Carmi, McLeansboro, Harrisburg,
were auctioned online successfully, and Joy said organiz-
Benton and Mt. Vernon in this area.
ers hope to feature the online quilt auction again.
Joy said the newest ministr y, GraceHaven pregnancy
Baptist Children’s Home was founded in 1918 in the
resource clinic, provides free pregnancy and SDT and STI
great Spanish flu epidemic, at the end of World War I.
testing and treatment, free ultrasounds, and education
“Think about all the people who have suppor ted us all
classes for women and men.
those years,” said Joy. The Sept. 18 event is “like a big reunion of the people
618-384-7266 Mon.-Thurs. 11-4 | Sat. 10-2
10 (618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021
For more information about the ser vices provided by BCHFS, visit bchfs.com or phone 618-382-4164.
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O, GEE!
Carmi golfer competes at Pinehurst WRITER: MONA L. WARRICK Oakley Gee is one of the nicest young men you will ever meet. But, don’t let his ever-present smile and affable demeanor fool you, he’s a fierce competitor… especially on the golf course. Gee, 17, enters his final prep year at Carmi-White County High School, with quite the story to tell. In July, he participated in the U.S. Junior Amateur. “It’s the biggest junior event there is,” said Gee. “There is nothing else like it for junior golfers.” To clinch his spot in the tournament, Gee won a three-way playoff in a qualifier held at the Oxmoor Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky. The qualifier, one of 59 held across the country, was June 7. “I tried, at ages 14 and 15, to qualify, but fell short by one stroke each time,” said Gee. “There was no tournament in 2020 due to Covid.” Gee was one of 264 golfers -- from 42 states and 23 countries -- to converge on The Country Club of North Carolina in Pinehurst for the U.S. Junior Amateur. Following two practice rounds, Gee played two competitive rounds, on July 19 and 20, scoring 74 on each round. On the first day of competitive play, Gee birdied a 232-yard, par 3 hole.
I play with him, his focus shifts to coach and it’s never about him. It’s always about me. I’m rarely on the course without him.”
“That’s probably the shot I’m most proud of.” Struggling a bit on day two,
Gee’s attitude and confidence have proven invaluable on the links. “In
Gee bogied holes 8 and 9. “I knew I needed to do something on 10, and I
golf and every sport that Oakley has ever played, we always over-prepare,”
did. I made the best sand shot of my life,” he said. “I had fun while I was
said Andy. “This allows him to play with a clear mind. Success builds confi-
there. There were a lot of good things, a win here, and a lot of little suc-
dence, and the success comes from the preparation.”
cesses. I wasn’t hitting well, but my short game, and my positive attitude, saved me.”
When Gee was 11, his dad noticed a shift. “He started playing in the Evansville Junior Golf League, and we noticed how competitive he was
Gee finished 5 under for both days, tying for 68th. The low 64 scorers,
with the older players,” said Andy. “After that, we added John Given as a
from stroke play, advanced to match play. He hopes to qualify for next
swing coach. He set the bar very high for Oak and challenged him to get
year’s tournament. “I know what it takes,” said Gee. “This is what I want
there. John does an excellent job as a coach from the physical and mental
to do. I take satisfaction in working toward a goal and achieving that goal.”
side. He instills great confidence in Oakley because he truly believes in
This was the 73rd U.S. Junior Amateur, a tournament won by notables such as Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, and Will Zaltoris. The 2021 tournament winner was Nick Dunlap of Huntsville, Alabama. Golf is more than a game to Gee. “I’m dedicated. I’m self-disciplined and I work as hard as anyone I know,” he said. “I play because I love the feeling of achieving my goals.”
Oakley’s ability.” Gee said he remembers meeting with Given for the first time, “In order for John to coach me, I had to impress him first. He asked me if my goal was to be a Division 1 golfer. I remember looking at my dad. I didn’t know what I wanted, I was only 11!” A Carmi native, Given holds two individual IHSAA state golf titles. The
Neal Cutchin, general manager of the Carmi Countr y Club, said,
Carmi Community High School golf team, of which he was a member,
“Oakley plays golf all the time. He’s out here every day, in all weather
won the state title five years in a row. Upon graduation from Carmi High
conditions.”
School in 1979, Given played golf at the University of Florida where he
Gee said, “I started young, playing golf with my dad. I was probably around four when I started playing.” Gee said his dad, Andy, has an “unbelievable knowledge” of the game. “My dad has helped me so much. When
12 (618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021
was a two-time NCAA All-American. He was captain of the Gators golf team for two years. “Golf has been a great part of my life,” said Given. “I have always been
dedicated. He does what it takes and it’s cool to see a kid who wants to get better every day.” At the U.S. Junior Amateur, “I got to caddy for Oakley,” Given said. “He had Division 1 coaches following him. He was a little bit under the radar, because Covid put him behind. He wasn’t noteworthy, but now Oakley’s got these coaches following him around the entire tournament.” The U.S. Junior Amateur is “the hardest tourney and the biggest one to get into,” said Given. “They play on the hardest golf courses. The college coaches can follow the kids.” This is important, Given said, because Division 1 golf is “just as tough as professional golf.” Ironically, while Gee felt the need to impress Given to secure him as a coach, Given remembers differently, “I lobbied to get him! It’s hard to find good golfers out there. I wanted to latch onto Oakley!” Given enjoys sharing his passion for golf with junior golfers. “I want to see them excel and get a scholarship to play college golf. We train them to be competitive. I’m big into fitness, and Tyler Norton, a trainer who works with the Dodgers, works with the kids during the winter to get their bodies prepared and ready to play.” Southern Illinois, said Given, “is a very small pond” and golf is a very competitive sport, but he knows Gee will field plenty of offers to play collegiate golf. “He’s one in a million,” Given said. Gee is fortunate to have such great support from his family, Given said. “I thought my family was supportive, but wow, Oakley’s family probably tops them! They are great. His dad gets him ready to compete.” Much of Gee’s success, according to his parents, can be attributed to his “natural drive and positive attitude. His drive and ambition have always been there, with all sports. His attitude has been molded, somewhat, because we would not tolerate anger while playing golf,” said Hillary. “In junior tournaments, other parents would always compliment him on his even temperament which made him proud of himself. He now sees the value of being level headed when things are not going his way whether it’s with golf or life.” Gee’s journey, to date, is nothing short of “unbelievable.” It’s also been quite a ride for his family. “It’s been amazing! We are happy for John, because he has given so a student of the game.” Given now makes his home in Newburgh and is a
much for Oakley to succeed. We are happy and appreciative for all of
golf professional and performance coach with Titleist Performance Insti-
the people in Carmi who believe in him and tell him that they do. We are
tute.
happy for the people in Evansville that Oakley has connected with who
“I would be nowhere near where I am without John,” said Gee. “He’s amazing. Thanks to him, my dreams of playing Division 1 golf are coming true.” Andy agrees Given is the best coach for his son. “We tried one coach prior to John, but luckily it didn’t work out. John is a very driven person.
have done great things to allow Oakley the opportunity to compete with the best players in the world,” said Hillary. Gee’s parents agree that Oakley has made many sacrifices to reach this point. While he loves other sports, Gee has chosen to dedicate his efforts to golf.
He wants to be the best at what he does, which is how he plays golf. From
“Oakley loves basketball, but he doesn’t feel that he can play golf at an
the first lesson, I knew John could prepare Oakley not only for junior golf,
elite level if he doesn’t strength train in the off-season, which happens to
but golf after high school,” said Andy. “John loves all of his juniors and
be basketball season. He loves baseball, and as a 6’2”, left-handed pitcher,
puts a lot of his life into them. He loves the fact that I am interested and
I believe he would have been good,” said Andy. “He has dedicated his past
has shared his knowledge with me, which allows me to help Oakley when
few years to prepare for a successful college golf career. While I would
John isn’t available. We are very grateful and hope to repay him with victo-
have loved to watch him play all of the sports, I don’t believe he would be
ries down the road.”
where he is now in his golf career had he done so.”
Given said, “Oakley is a once in a decade type of player. He brings 100% plus 10 to everything he does. He wants to get better every day. Oakley is
Andy and Hillary are “so happy for Oakley. The U.S. Junior Am was very special, and it truly made all the sacrifices worthwhile.”
(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021 13
tiny
WRITER: MONA L. WARRICK In the 1920s, the age of the flapper, makeup compacts gained popularity. Dark eye-
TREASURES
liner, bright lipstick, and rosy red cheeks were in vogue. No stylish, young woman was
Pritchett’s compact collection offers glimpse of fashion history
and utilitarian inside. Examples of these are visible in Pritchett’s collection.
ever without her tiny purse which carried her most treasured possession, a compact. Clara Pritchett, of Grayville, began collecting compacts decades ago. “I collected them for 60 years,” she said. Her impressive collection includes compacts from several decades including the 1920s. Compacts were designed to be beautiful on the exterior “In the ‘20s, wealthy women carried compacts that were adorned with real pearls, gemstones, and diamonds. After the stock market crash in 1929, very few people had
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14 (618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021
money for luxuries,” she said. “But, during World War II, soldiers would bring compacts home to their sweethearts. They would pick them up wherever they travelled, a lovely gift for their loved ones.” Compacts from the 1960s were encrusted with rhinestones, fake
a book on collectible compacts, I guess I could write one!” She doesn’t have a favorite. “I love them all,” she said, “But, I’ve lost the enthusiasm I once had for seeking them out. It seems to me that collecting antiques isn’t as popular as it was at one time.”
pearls, and other stones. “I have several compacts from the ‘60s,” Pritch-
The Pritchetts met when they were students at Eastern Illinois Uni-
ett said. “I picked up most of the compacts myself, but several have been
versity in Charleston. Clara, from Sailor Springs, spotted Charles driving
gifted to me.” Many of her compacts were gifts from her late husband,
his ‘49 Ford convertible down “the strip.” He was just home from the war
Charles, and her children, Brady and Penny. Brady died in 2015, just
and was going to school on the GI Bill. Their eyes met and the rest was
months after his father.
history. They were married for 63 years until Charles’ death in 2014.
Several years ago, Penny found herself in a bidding war for some
A retired teacher, Pritchett taught for 31 years. In August of 1981, she
interesting compacts. “Another lady and I were trying to buy some older
and Charles retired and moved back to Grayville, Charles’ hometown. At
compacts at an auction,” Penny said. “Luckily, I was able to buy the three
the time of retirement, she was teaching in Gilman, Illinois, and Charles
that I wanted for Mom’s collection.”
was principal of Gilman High School. The couple was fortunate enough
Pritchett’s collection includes compacts that still contain the original face powders and face rouges. One of the compacts, made in Illinois, features a small clock. Others are adorned with mother of pearl, artificial pearls, and rhinestones. A very interesting compact in her collection, has Bangkok, Thailand,
to enjoy 33 years of retirement together. Soon to be 93, Pritchett shares her home with her daughter, Penny. Penny is very active in many civic organizations in Grayville. A member of the White County Retired Teachers Association, Pritchett enjoys visiting with fellow retirees when the group meets.
engraved on the back. There is an inscription in Thai, also known as
Pritchett also has a small, but impressive, collection of wooden duck
Siamese language, engraved on the case. “We’ve tried to have the inscrip-
decoys. “I collected many of them and sold some,” she said. “I think you
tion translated, with no luck,” Pritchett said.
just tire of collecting after so many decades. I treasure these pieces I’ve
The compacts are lovingly displayed in the family room of her Victorian era home. She did research on many of the compacts. “I couldn’t find
collected, because today, most everything we buy is thrown away after we finish with it.”
(618) HOMETOWN MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2021 15