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APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014

APRIL 2014 CONNECTION MAGAZINE

bloom

HOME LAWN GARDEN 10 Step into a Victorian garden 15 Local greenhouse guide 20 Anything but ordinary 25 A hydro harvest 30 Bringing nature indoors 34 Seclusion in a quiet cove

INSIDE: connection living 44 BOOK REVIEWS Library Connections 47 HEALTHY CONNECTION How to feel good at any age 48 FAMILY FOCUS????

A summer to remember 50 ON THE JOURNEY Be anrgy; sin not 52 For the love of books Sara Parker turned her love of books into a lifetime of service 56 DIRT ROADS AND RAILROADS All aboard!

connection food 62 A taste of Pakistan 66 RESTAURANT REVIEW Roadhouse gets your motor runnin’ 71 FROM THE RECIPE BOX Savory sandwiches 73 BOTTLES AND BREWS Hop into spring with seasonal spirits

community connection on the cover: Becky Caddell, who owns and operates Farmers Daughters Floral and Greenhouse in Shell Knob, is ready for spring.

Becky has just been awarded the Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce “Business-person of the Year Award” for her extensive community involvement. Read more about Becky in her “On the Spot” interview on page 74.

APRIL 2014

74 ON THE SPOT Becky Caddell 77 FAMILIAR FACES 81 CONNECTION EVENTS

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 5

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Connection

A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SOUTHWEST MISSOURIANS

PUBLISHER Jacob Brower EDITOR Sherry Tucker thorntonlives@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Veronica Zucca connection@monett-times.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Lisa Craft community@monett-times.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Sheila Harris Marion Chrysler Lindsey Hall CONTRIBUTORS Murray Bishoff Meagan Ruffing Nancy Ridgley Darlene Wierman Melonie Roberts Sheila Harris Susan Funkhouser Pam Wormington Amanda Reese Anne Angle Joshua Boley Steve Chapman Layne Sleeth Dori Thomas PHOTOGRAPHERS Chuck Nickle Kerry Hays Jeff Terry DISTRIBUTION Greg Gilliam Kevin Funcannon TO ADVERTISE 417-847-2610 - Cassville 417-235-3135 - Monett Send e-mail inquiries to thorntonlives@gmail.com Mailing address: P.O. Box 486, Cassville, MO 65625 Connection is published monthly and distributed free in Cassville, Monett, Exeter, Washburn, Pierce City, Mt. Vernon, Aurora, Verona, Roaring River, Eagle Rock, Shell Knob, Purdy, Wheaton, Freistatt, Marionville, Seligman, Golden and other surrounding areas.

Connection is a publication of the Cassville Democrat, The Monett Times and Rust Communications.

APRIL 2014

editor’s note

P

ERSONALLY, I WANT TO DO NOTHING BUT SPEND MY APRIL DAYS IN THE garden, digging in the dirt, planting seeds and watching them sprout and grow.

Spring must be my favorite season. I love growing vegetables, and I anxiously wait through winter to get started planting again. Little plants of lettuce and spinach don’t mind getting nipped by lingering spells of cold weather, and are among my favorites to see peek through the soil. They germinate quickly, and grow fast so that they can be harvested and enjoyed fresh from the garden before anything else. It’s time to get outside and get inspired! If you are looking for a variety of fresh produce, our local farmers markets will be opening in April. The Cassville market (on the square) and the Aurora market both open on Saturday, April 19.

April is a phenomenal month for those of us that love to read and play in the dirt. Not only is National Library Week (April 13 to 19) “If you have during April, but this is also our Connection “home and garden” issue. a garden and The story of Sara Parker and her lengthy history in the office of a library, you state librarian, not only in the state of Missouri, but several other states as well, is fascinating. Especially interesting is her involvement, have everything and witnessing the movement, in libraries from the old card catalog you need.” filing system to new computerized cataloging. I encourage you to Cicero support our local libraries and see what they have to offer during National Library Week.

Within our “home and garden” section, I hope that our features will inspire. It is plain to see that if you enjoy the outdoors, the scent of flowers, watching things grow and adding color to your life, you are in good company with the neighbors around you.

Whether it’s a backyard garden, a front yard full of flowers or a commercial greenhouse, we can identify with the hard work that goes into nurturing plants and the satisfaction that can be gained from tending them.

Coming up soon, Seligman will be hosting its annual train-ride on two dates, May 17 and 18. The excursion starts from Seligman in the morning, and takes its passengers to Van Buren, Ark., for shopping, then makes its way back to Seligman by early evening.

My son, Nate, loves trains, and was thrilled to have the opportunity to take a ride on the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad on their fall excursion ride last fall. Learn more about the A&M in our Backroads and Railroads article in this month’s magazine.

Here is to hoping the sun will shine and warm the soil, birds will build nests and grass will grow green.

Take care now,

Sherry Tucker

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 7

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APRIL 2014

t

t bloom HOME LAWN GARDEN

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF CONNECTION

10 Step into a Victorian garden

20 Anything but ordinary

30 Bringing nature indoors

15 Local greenhouse guide

25 A hydro harvest

34 Seclusion in a quiet cove

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 9

STEP INTO A

Victorian garden STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHEILA HARRIS

A Peggy Bushart and Irene Hammonds, of Cassville, are playing for all they’re worth.

The ladies, who live side-byside in Victorian-era houses overlooking the city, have been passionate flower-gardeners for the last several years, and harvest rewards which cannot be measured by the pound.

“Flower-gardening is so therapeutic,” declared Peggy.

“There’s just something about being outdoors and creating a place of beauty that’s good for both the body and the spirit.”

Irene is in full agreement.

“When I was growing up in

10 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

LTHOUGH A VEGETABLE GARDEN, with its freshly-turned earth and carefully ordered rows, contains a certain amount of aesthetic appeal, its purpose is primarily practical. It puts food on the table. Its planning and cultivating must be structured and deliberate in order to reap an abundant harvest. A flower garden, though, with an array of colors planted in riotous abandon, subject only to the whims of the gardener, is a playground for the soul.

Poland, my family always had a large vegetable garden and lots of flowers,” Irene stated.

“My dad made my sister and me our own little fenced and gated gardens that we were responsible for taking care of, and we loved them. When I moved to Chicago from Warsaw, Poland at age 21, I had to leave gardening behind. In Chicago, I always lived in rental properties with no yard, so I was unable to plant anything. I really missed it.”

In 2001, when Irene Hammonds and her husband, Mark, moved into their spacious

two-story home in Cassville, the large yard, sprawling beneath the shade of massive oak trees, was bare.

“I was so excited to finally have a yard of my own,” exclaimed Irene, “although at first I didn’t really know what to do with it. Every morning I’d look out the window at the yard next door, where lots of flowers grew, and think, ‘I wish my yard looked like that.’ Then I decided it could. Frank and Christine Wakefield, who lived in the house next door, had inherited the flowers in the yard from the previous owner, but weren’t APRIL 2014

Advice for beginners: A large, bare yard can feel really overwhelming to a beginning flower gardener,” stated Peggy, “so start small. Pick out one area of the yard and just plant a grouping of a few flowers. If flower gardening is for you, you’ll be hooked with that first bed, and continue to expand from there. But remember, it’s a one-step-at-atime process. There’s only so much a person can do in one growing season, so don’t get discouraged.

Remember, too, perennials you buy on clearance in nurseries have often already bloomed for the season, but go ahead and plant them. Don’t be discouraged if they don’t look like they’re doing anything. They’re actually putting down solid roots through the summer and winter, and will bloom for you the next season.

Be sure, too, to always read the tags on new plants for light and water requirements, and plant and water accordingly. If there’s not a tag, look up the information on the Internet. It can really be discouraging if you buy a beautiful flowering plant, only to have it fizzle out because it’s getting too much water, or not enough light.

Remember, gardening is all about trial and error. Some things work, some don’t. You’ll have failures occasionally, but if you keep on trying, you’ll have successes, too.”

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 11

In 2008, when Peggy and Jim Bushart bought the house next door to Irene’s from the Wakefields, the yard was no longer in the condition that had so captivated Irene in 2001.

After suffering from years of neglect, many of the perennials, which had once grown prolifically had been smothered by weeds, or lost to drought.

Serious restoration was in order.

Plans are in the works for a summer garden tour, which will include Peggy and Irene’s gardens. The tour will be sponsored by a new area gardening group, Front Porch Conversations with Garden People, which meets at 7 p.m., the second Thursday of each month. For more information, please contact Cheryl Williams at the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library, Cassville Branch, at 417-847-2121.

really gardeners themselves.

They traveled a lot and weren’t able to keep up with the yard, so they told me to help myself to starts and seeds from the different flowers. I took them up on their offer.”

“We’ve lived here for 13 years now,” stated Irene, “and everything you see in the yard, except for the really large trees, I planted myself, either 12 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

from seeds, transplants or plants I’ve bought on sale from nurseries.”

From a once-bare yard, to one bursting with blooms from spring through autumn, it’s evident that Irene’s hard work is reaping huge dividends in beauty. Terraced rock planters line the street and driveway and contain a joyous mix of perennials, including creeping

phlox, lavender and hyndrangea.

A fluffy hedge of magenta roses mesmerizes the senses in May and June, while a yard swing, nestled in a shady bed of hostas, invites salubrious relaxation.

Irene is also an avid vegetable gardener, and her well-tended plot contains vegetables she once grew in Poland, including leeks, which she started from seed.

“Just like Irene was once inspired by the Wakefields’ yard, I was inspired by her yard,” stated Peggy. “Because Irene and I both love flowergardening, we quickly became friends. Fortunately, she was able to provide me with new starts and seeds for many of the flowers and shrubs, which originally grew in my yard.”

“I have learned so much from Irene since living here,” continued Peggy. “She taught me how to save seeds and grow new plants from cuttings; plus, she’s always pushing me to try something new. She can’t stand to see a plant go to waste, so if she needs to divide one of her perennials, or has a plant she doesn’t particularly care for, she insists that I take it. I can never say ‘no.’”

Peggy, who grew up in Louisiana, came from a gardening background as well, although she doesn’t get too excited about vegetable gardening.

“My husband grows vegetables, but I’m all about flowers,” declared Peggy, a APRIL 2014

fact evidenced by the everexpanding beds and borders around her house.

Some of Peggy’s favorites include salvia, sage and echinacea, which are scattered in groupings throughout the yard.

Beds of pansies, peonies and roses of all colors surround the front porch, where rich purple clematis bloom in profusion along a trellis to the roof.

On any given day, when the weather permits, Peggy and Irene can be found outside cultivating their flowers, or simply enjoying quiet time reviewing their yards while they gather a vision for their next garden projects.

“I get a lot of my ideas from gardening books and magazines,” said Peggy.

A trellis, sweeping in a graceful arch over a brick APRIL 2014

walkway and bearing a profusion of climbing roses, was a favorite project of Peggy’s from a couple of years ago.

Peggy has plans this season to plant beds of lavender and echinacea around a new porch, which was recently completed on the west side of her home, as well as place some bird houses along the top of a section of privacy fence.

“For me, accessories are an important element of gardening,” stated Peggy. “The right lawn ornaments can really capture your interest and make you wonder what’s around the next corner.”

This year, Irene hopes to expand her gardens by adding a new bed for hydrangeas and more plants around a goldfish pond her husband installed last summer.

“Spring is probably our favorite season,” said Peggy.

“Irene and I love to tour our yards, looking for the first green shoots to peek out of the ground and the first buds to pop out on the branches of bushes and trees. It’s very exciting! We always yell across the yard to each other, ‘Come look at this,’ like a couple of little kids.”

Peggy and Irene’s flowers are well-known locally, as well as with visiting tourists.

“We have people drive by all summer; sometimes they stop, other times they just honk and give us a thumbs-up,” said Irene with delight. “One lady from Oklahoma, who visits Cassville every year, always

makes a point of driving up our hill to look at our flowers. One year, I gave her some seeds from some of my flowers and the next year, she brought me a start from her honeysuckle bush. I’m not sure that’s the real name for it, but that’s what I call it. The bush is quite large now. I gave Peggy a start from it, and now she has one, too.”

“It’s so nice to have a friend next door to share your love for gardening with,” said Peggy.

“After a long day of working in our yards, I’ll call over to Irene and ask her if she thinks it’s time to quit. Then we’ll sit down together with a glass of wine and talk about the things we accomplished in our gardens.” n CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 13

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PRING IS HERE AND IT’S TIME TO GET THE tiller going and plan out the vegetable plots and flower beds. Do you have questions about what to grow and how to grow it? We are lucky, here in the Ozarks, to live among gardeners that are very skilled and knowledgeable about our growing environment. Most of the owners of the local greenhouses can help you in deciding what to grow, and when and how to grow it, whether it’s shrubs around your house, or tomatoes for your garden.

WALNUT LANE GREENHOUSE 1665 Lawrence 1150, off of P Hwy. Between Verona and Aurora Owner Miriam Mast Miriam Mast owns a small, but productive greenhouse that specializes in vegetables and hanging baskets, “I have 33 different kinds of tomatoes, and 15 types of peppers all started from seed,” said Miriam. “I grow quite a few heirloom type tomatoes.” Miriam will be open all summer, “I have a lot of different flowers, hanging pots and herbs. I actually, probably sell more vegetables than flowers, though,” she said. Miriam has been selling plants from her greenhouse five years. “It’s really satisfying to start this little plant from seed, and watch it grow and flower,” she said.

WICKMAN’S GARDEN VILLAGE Hwy. 60, two miles east of Monett 417-235-1112 Bernie Craft, manager, and Robert Paul, garden center manager The garden and landscaping offerings at Wickman’s is extensive. Manager, Bernie Craft, explains, “We carry bedding plants, vegetables and annual flowers. We have all the landscaping materials; bulk mulch, bulk rock, bulk topsoil and bagged compost. We also have shrubs, shade trees, ornamental trees, fruit trees, as well as all the brambles, blackberries, blueberries and other berry plants.” She went on to explain their service as well, “We also offer full landscaping service, we can provide irrigation, and we carry and install sod.

We also provide topsoil to fill raised bed gardens.”

“Right now we have seed potatoes, onion bulbs, asparagus, strawberry plants and garden seeds to start spring gardens,” said Bernie.

Wickman’s large staff also provides workshops and monthly seminars to teach about growing and gardening. April 4-6 is their annual geranium sale with all geraniums ½ off. “We grow 20,000 geraniums,” said Bernie. They also have a perennial sale, starting April 19 in celebration of Earth Day. Call or stop

by Wickman’s for more sale and workshop dates and times.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 15

COUNTRY BOB’S GREENHOUSE 18093 Lawrence 2175, between Hwy. K and Hwy. 39 Aurora 417-678-0152 Owners, Bobby, Sheila and Krissy Garoutte Bobby Garoutte loves what he does, “I’ve been gardening since I was 17,” Bobby said. Along with wife, Sheila, and 17 year old daughter, Krissy, they work together in their greenhouse operation. “We’ve been doing this for 14 years.

We have five greenhouses, and start all our plants from seed,” said Bob. Besides growing for public sale and for their own garden, the Garoutte’s supply plants for commercial growers as well.

“We have something new this year, a black petunia,” said Bob. He also explained, “We specialize in tomatoes and grow 37 varieties. We also have 15 varieties of pepper.”

Daughter, Krissy, who is a junior at Aurora High School, is actively involved in the greenhouse, “It’s been a good experience, and I get to use it as my FFA project,” she also shared. “My team is going to state for crop production.”

Country Bob’s is open, and also offers seed potatoes and onion sets. You can visit them at the greenhouse, or at the Aurora Farmers Market, which opens on Saturday, April 19.

Other area greenhouses: AURORA GREENHOUSE, FLORAL AND GIFTS 428 E. Church Aurora 417-678-4149 Owners Doyle and Lisa Ferguson Full service floral, greenhouse with landscaping. Family owned and operated.

MT. VERNON GREENHOUSE AND FLORAL 448 W. Mt. Vernon Blvd.

Mt. Vernon 417-466-2330 Owners Lance and Nancy Phillips Florist with a variety of flowers and plants.

FOR THE BIRDS NATURE AND GARDEN CENTER 16062 Hwy. 76 East of Cassville 417-847-2920 Owners Greg and Brenda Beck, and Fred and Beth Davis Providing all your gardening needs, plus knowledge on keeping bees buzzing and birds happy. They also carry seed potatoes and other spring vegetable garden supplies.

16 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

MONETT GREENHOUSE Hwy. H North of Monett 7933 Lawrence 2220 417-235-7005 Manager, Tara Rawlings and employee, Julie Dawson Monett Greenhouse, which was formerly Bouchers Plant Farm, is a large greenhouse service that provides bedding plants, vegetables, herbs and landscaping plants and materials.

Manager Tara Rawlings is busy preparing for their opening day of April 1. The greenhouse works to offer a variety of plants that are good quality and unique from other selections, “We try to draw people in who are not finding the wide variety that isn’t available elsewhere.” Tara, who loves working with plants, has been working with Monett Greenhouse for going on four years.

She also explained their method of the propagation, “Most of our plants are started by vegetative cuttings, which gives a better quality of plant. We also start a lot of plants by seed,” Tara said.

“We have tons and tons of herbs in 3 ½” pots, and 4-packs and singles of many vegetables.” n

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 17

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ord inary ANYTHING BUT

STORY BY MEAGAN RUFFING | PHOTOS BY SHERRY TUCKER

Nancy Rubino’s house wasn’t always the center of attention. When she and her husband, Richard, bought their one-story home 25 years ago, it looked like any other house on the block. The Rubinos left Germany, where they were both stationed in the military, and relocated to Aurora with their six-month-old son Angelo. “The house was a fixerupper,” says Nancy. “We wanted something we could pay cash for.”

20 20 || CONNECTION CONNECTION MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

Richard continued working for the military, and Nancy was a stay-at-home mom. “When you’re a mom, your kids come first,” she says. “He [Angelo] was the object of everything we did. She homeschooled Angelo, and made their home a one-of-a-kind classroom that you would never find in textbooks; adding a loft where his classroom would be. When Angelo got older and moved out, Nancy says she had more time and started doing projects around the house.

APRIL APRIL 2014 2014

A refurbished ladder from an old barn in Missouri serves as the only way up to what used to be Angelo’s classroom when Nancy homeschooled. Walls that used to be white are now covered in pop art, mosaic tiles and old vinyl records. Everything has its place and each piece of art has a story.

“It all started with yellow paint,” says Nancy. “I get goofs at Lowe’s…their mistake ones. I always try to get exterior paint so that I can use it both inside and outside.” Once Nancy started painting with different colors, she says she started running out of room on the inside of the house and did stuff in the backyard. “I initially painted the trellis in all different colors and stripes,” she explains. “I start with little things and add on to it.”

Nancy’s interest in art started when she was about 7 and she attributes this to her late father. “My dad was very creative and very good with his hands,” remembers Nancy. “When other kids were making mud pies, I was making statues.”

Nancy went on to college and studied art only to end up switching to education after her dad advised her to study something that would get her a job upon APRIL APRIL 2014 2014

CONNECTION CONNECTIONMAGAZINE MAGAZINE| |21 21

graduation. After college, Nancy took a teaching position in Wisconsin and says, “Mom had a daycare when I was growing up, and she would take special needs kids four and under. I think that’s what got me interested.”

After teaching special education for seven years, Nancy says she was burnt out and decided to enlist in the Army. “It was peace time, and I was 29 years old. I went into something I knew nothing about; petroleum. I worked in a lab testing things. I met my husband at church, and I told him if he wanted to marry me we had to move to Missouri.”

Nancy says she had fallen in love with Missouri after spending many summers visiting her parents in Wheaton once they retired. Her dad’s family lived around the area and she and Richard decided to move to Aurora from Germany.

Twenty-five years later, Nancy and Richard are still living in that same home.

Things are a little different now, though.

Angelo has moved out and is living in Springfield. Nancy and Richard are retired and love to travel when the opportunity presents itself. During the winter, Nancy works on projects inside like making beads, jewelry, tiling and painting. It’s during the spring and summer when she really blossoms. “People may not know my name, 22 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

but they know the house with the satellite dishes,” she laughs.

“I had a satellite dish and thought; I could paint a flower on that. People started dropping them off. Some would ask me and some I would just find out there [her yard].”

When Richard was sent oversees to Iraq, Nancy decided to buy the house next door and tear it down. “I had so many bottles I decided to build a bottle wall,” explains Nancy. “I looked at that and thought, you

know, I’m going to build a whole house?

That’s how I ended up with my bottle house.”

Recycling is a huge thing for Nancy. She thinks people shouldn’t be too quick to toss away old stuff but rather, reuse their own old things. “I try to use all recycled things,” says Nancy. “I used fiberglass roofing from a building that was torn down in town to put a new roof on the shed.” Most of the doors in her house are those that she has found

APRIL 2014

in the Aurora and Monett city-wide spring clean-ups.

“I enjoy it,” Nancy says, of people stopping by to admire her house. “People stop all the time. Traffic will stop. There are hundreds of people when it’s nice outside.

Motorcycle groups will turn in and look on their way to Hawgwild BBQ.”

Plans for the future include more outside work. “I’m going to have three mannequins drinking coffee and playing cards,” laughs Nancy. Her way of life and attention to artistic detail in the everyday stuff that others might consider mundane have led Nancy to a stress free life. “People should do what they like,” she says. “I’ve had stressful things happen, but because of the way I am, I don’t stress. I’m not a downer kind of person.”

This past January, Nancy experienced some pain in her left arm. Finding out that she had diseased tissue, she immediately had surgery and has been unable to do most of the artistic projects she had hoped to complete this winter. “If I had it my way, I’d be outside all year,” she says.

With no set schedule to tie her down, Nancy refers to herself as a free spirit and says she putzes around the house with her dog Argie (pronounced Archie) deciding APRIL 2014

what artistic idea to act on next. “We only set our alarm on Sundays to make sure we get up for church,” says Nancy.

With a laid back lifestyle and lots of time, Nancy dreams up her next big project and starts scouring the Internet and garage sales for deals. “I have always liked bowling balls,” she says. Sticking to her ‘nothing over a dollar’ mentality at a garage sale, Nancy tried talking down the price of a bowling bowl and ended up getting it for free once the man realized she was “that crazy bowling ball lady.”

Nancy welcomes the attention her house and yard get for being the most unique sight in all of Aurora. She’s a no nonsense, fun-loving kind of person who finds beauty in what others deem as trash. She stays true to her roots and makes it her daily goal to transform anything and everything into a work of art. Life just can’t get much better than that.

Nancy and Richards house sits on the northwest corner of N Elliot Avenue and W Cofield Street in Aurora. n CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 23

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APRIL 2014

a hydro harvest STORY BY SHEILA HARRIS

HYDROPONICS, A METHOD of growing vegetables without soil, using a nutrient-enriched water solution, has caught the attention of many commercial gardeners because of its potential advantages over conventional gardening.

Because plants are grown in a climate-controlled, virtually insect-free, greenhouse environment, year-round production is possible and pesticides are unnecessary.

Both factors contribute to a APRIL 2014

much higher produce yield than from plants grown in soil.

In addition, because water is continuously recirculated through a pump and reservoir system, much less water is needed for production.

John Mareth, of Mt. Vernon, first became interested in hydroponic gardening when, on his route as a Distribution Development Specialist for Purina Feeds, a flyer announcing a hydroponic greenhouse unit for sale

caught his attention. After a little research, he became quite intrigued, and discussed the possibility of beginning a hydroponic business with his wife, Janet. To John and Janet, who both hale from agricultural backgrounds, the idea was appealing.

“We owned a forty-acre farm,” stated John, “and a hydroponic greenhouse sounded like a good use of our natural resources, as well as a viable second income.”

“Plus, we thought it would be a great project for our whole family to become involved in,” added Janet.

“It looked like a good investment opportunity, provided there was a willing market for our produce,” continued John. “Before we spent any money, we did a thorough market analysis.

We questioned numerous restaurants and grocers in the area, and discovered that, yes, there was a large demand for CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 25

it also provides the exact ratio of nutrients and fertilizers needed.”

“The nutrient additives flowing into the water are constantly monitored and adjusted as they are dispersed from three different barrels into the water supply,” explained John. “The water-nutrient solution is continuously recirculated from a 700-gallon underground tank and pumped along multiple PVC channels throughout the roots of the lettuce plants.”

According to John, the water reservoir is drained weekly and replenished with a fresh supply of both water and nutrient solution, to ensure that plants receive the proper ratio of nutrients.

No additional grow lights have proven to be necessary during the winter months, although plenty of additional heat from overhead, shop-type, propane heaters is needed.

The greenhouse is cooled in the summer with a wet-wall system, which draws outside air through a watered wall, cooling the interior of the greenhouse.

“We also have shades, which we manually place over locally-grown produce. When vegetables are grown locally, there is very little shipping time involved, so the product is fresher and has a much longer shelf-life than produce which is trucked in from across the country.”

With all systems pointing to go, the Mareths invested in a used hydroponic greenhouse structure that had originally been designed to grow tomatoes. Because tomatoes are more labor-intensive, requiring harvesting, sorting and grading on a daily basis, the Mareths opted to have the greenhouse retrofitted to grow a variety of lettuces instead. Although the Mareths 26 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

completed all of the assembly and construction work themselves, they worked closely with Crop King, a company specializing in hydroponic gardening, for the installation and technical support of their hydro-nutrient equipment.

Most of the Mareths’ lettuce seeds are purchased from Crop King as well.

“We submitted a sample of our well-water to Crop King for analysis before we began production,” declared John, “and they formulated a nutrient solution specifically suited for our water. The solution not only adjusts the ph of our water to the ideal level required for maximum lettuce growth, but

the top of the greenhouse in the summer to add a little extra protection from the heat,” explained John. “We’ve found that it’s easier (although more expensive) to heat the greenhouse in the winter, than it is to keep it cool in the summer.”

Janet Mareth, along with the couple’s oldest son, Levi, and youngest daughter, Rachel, attended a two-day Crop King Growers Workshop in Lodi, Ohio, in order to receive some advance training before their greenhouse became operational.

“A lot of the people who attended the seminar were merely thinking about starting a hydroponic business,” said Janet, “but we had already made the investment and had jumped in feet first. By the time we attended the seminar, we were already in a no-turningback situation.”

In November of 2012, six months after construction began, 417 Produce was fully operational. Levi Mareth took on the role of manager, a position which is multi-faceted and includes harvesting and delivery of crops, as well as daily

HYDROPONIC LETTUCES, IN PARTICULAR, HAVE A LONGER SHELF LIFE, BECAUSE THEY ARE SOLD WITH THE ROOTS STILL ATTACHED, SO IN ESSENCE, THEY ARE LIVING PLANTS.

APRIL 2014

WORKING TOGETHER AS A FAMILY TO MAKE THEIR HYDROPONIC GREENHOUSE A SUCCESS: JANET, JOHN, KYLIE, IVAN, RACHEL, LEVI AND BROOKE MARETH.

monitoring of the greenhouse systems.

“A new crop of lettuce is planted every week,” stated Levi, “and a mature crop is harvested every week. Each crop requires about six weeks from seed to maturity, so by planting and harvesting on a weekly basis, we have a steady supply of fresh lettuces for our buyers.”

The Mareths’ youngest daughter, Rachel, a senior at Mt. Vernon High School, is an integral part of the business as well. Rachel spends time in the greenhouse every day, helping monitor the water hoses and the progress of the growing plants. As compensation for her labor, John contributes a portion of the business profits toward her college fund. As a member of FFA, Rachel was also APRIL 2014

able to use the greenhouse as her S.A.E. project, and is gaining valuable hands-on experience in the agri-business world.

Together, Rachel and Janet Mareth are responsible for planting the seeds for a new crop of lettuce in one-inch square nursery beds every week, then two weeks later, transferring the seedlings to the larger grow channels. After an additional four weeks of growth, the plants are ready to harvest.

“I have a couple of neighbors who come in to help me harvest the lettuce every week,” stated Levi Mareth. “It takes us about four hours. Most of our product is delivered to Associated Wholesale Grocers in Springfield, and we package each head individually for them, with our own Hydro Harvest label on them. Additionally, we

provide lettuces to several area restaurants, including That Crazy Red Head’s Bakery and Bamboo Garden in Mt. Vernon, as well as Farmers Gastropub in Springfield.”

417 Produce also offers their lettuces at the Greater Springfield Farmer’s Market in the parking lot of the Battlefield Mall.

“The market for a wider variety of lettuces has expanded tremendously in the last few years,” explained John.

“Diners have become more health-conscious, so salads are now a prominent feature on most restaurant menus, and most customers want lettuces other than the traditional iceberg. At 417 Produce, we began by planting 9 to 12 different varieties, but based on customer demand, we’ve since narrowed it down to five

different varieties: Bibb, Red Butter, Green Leaf, Red Oak and Romaine.”

It would probably be difficult to find more pristine lettuces than those harvested from 417 Produce’s hydroponic greenhouse. Because there is no soil involved in the growth process, every head of lettuce is free from grit and dirt, and because the lettuces are marketed with the roots attached, they are technically still a living product. Lettuce doesn’t get much fresher than that!

For more information about 417 Produce, Levi Mareth, greenhouse manager, may be contacted at 417-3160486. They may also be reached by email at 417produce@gmail. com, and please like them on facebook. n CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 27

SOLVE PROBLEMS LIKE A PRO AND SAVE LIKE ONE TOO.

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47 N Lindenwood St., Shell Knob, MO 65747 417-858-3784 • 417-229-0949 28 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Personal Injury Car Accidents Wrongful Death Criminal / DWI Premise Liability Adoptions Estate Planning Business Organization Trusts / Wills Real Estate Probate

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w w w. p e t t i t l a w o f f i c e . c o m APRIL 2014

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 29 53

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bringing nature indoors

A LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS GREENS THE SCENE WITH INDOOR LANDSCAPING

When we go shopping at places like Battlefield Mall or Bass Pro, or maybe visit a hospital like Cox or Mercy, there are many features to the buildings we take for granted. We expect the floors to be clean and the restrooms to be orderly. Though we may not pay attention to it, music from speakers located in the ceiling often soothes us, causing us to slow down and take our time. Perhaps what most of us notice least, but should pay attention to, is the presence of the tropical plant displays, which add a little color to cold floors and stark walls.

Though most people spend little time thinking about the tropical ferns and trees at the mall, these plants provide a living to Wendall and Lori Wycliffe, owners of Interiorscapes. Started about 25 years ago, Interiorscapes provides what Wendall calls, “interior landscaping,” to businesses.

Interior landscaping, as Lori describes it, involves not only placing the indoor plants, but also continuing to care for them. “We put the plants in, and we go in every week and water them, take care of them,” she said. “That’s how we got started.”

30 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

STORY AND PHOTOS BY STEVE CHAPMAN

Wendall and Lori don’t just limit themselves to interior landscaping, however. Ten years after they started Interiorscapes, they expanded to begin selling tropical plants wholesale to other florists in the four-state area. In some cases, they will take specific orders to their customers; other times, they simply bring their inventory by and allow their customers to pick what they want to purchase.

“We have a big truck, which we load completely – and we don’t take that many APRIL 2014

orders, we just pull up to the door, and the customer comes out and buys off of the truck,” Wendall explains. “In slower times of the year, we have run a smaller truck – where we just take orders and load that truck, just for fuel consumption savings.”

In the last year and a half, Lori and Wendall decided to expand their market again, this time to individual retail customers. People who wish to buy their own tropical plants for home use can come to their greenhouse and make purchases there. Floral arrangements are also available for Mother’s Day, Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Being self-employed, Lori and Wendall often face challenges that force them to adapt to situations to keep Interiorscapes going. Often, personal time may have to be sacrificed to take care of a situation.

Wendall says that since they essentially work from home, he and Lori are never really away from work. “You’re never unemployed,” he stated. “Our house is right there; we don’t get away from it.” Lori jokingly adds “You can set your own hours, but the crazy thing is, there’s a lot of them.”

As plants are sensitive to changes in temperature, weather conditions can provide Lori and Wendall additional challenges. For example, during Winter

simon.com

APRIL 2014

Storm Titan in early March, Wendall had to stay up all night monitoring their greenhouses, making certain that they stayed warm, as the sharp drop in temperature would have killed their plants.

“If (the temperature) drops below 50

degrees, we’re in trouble,” explained Lori.

Not only did the cold weather force Lori and Wendall to work to keep their plants alive, it created additional costs as they had to expend more resources to warm their greenhouses. “It takes a lot of fuel to heat,” Lori said. “We use propane for backup, and we also have wood burning furnaces, so we burn a lot of wood and it’s pretty labor intensive.”

Summertime can provide its own challenges. Drought conditions, such as the area experienced during the Summer of 2012, can kill the plants as surely as a deep chill. To prevent this, Lori and Wendall will wet the floors of their greenhouses and run fans so that the inside temperature doesn’t get too hot.

Extreme temperatures are not the only challenges that Lori and Wendall face. The economy can throw its own curve-balls at them. Rising gas prices, for example, are a serious expense, especially as Lori and Wendall travel an average of 1,200 miles a week to do business in a truck, which Wendall says, “gets 10 miles to the gallon.”

To help avoid travel expenses, Wendall and Lori often work in cooperation with other florists. For example, if a customer from Cassville was to contact Interiorscapes with an order for a Mother’s

simon.com

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 31

Day bouquet, they would contact a Cassville florist and give them the order.

“We exchange business with other floral shops,” Wendall explains. “In Cassville, we do business with Designs by Debbie and Cassville Florist.”

Another challenge has been the loss of customers due to the collapse of the housing market from 2009. Lori stated that the collapse caused, “a lot of customers to go out of business.” Wendall added that, “no one has filled the void; it’s just gone away and that market has shrunk.”

Though being self-employed has several challenges, there are numerous perks to working from home as well.

Because Lori and Wendall could set their own schedule, they got to spend time with their daughter when she was growing up.

For example, they took her with them on a job to Canada when she was 10. “We had that advantage most people don’t have when you work 9-5,” Wendall said.

Travel is another perk in their line of work. Though they have a lot of business in the four-state area, Lori and Wendall also have numerous clients out of state; they are often gone to Texas, South Carolina, Georgia, Colorado, even Alaska!

Lori and Wendall are often in contact with their suppliers in Florida, so they make trips there as well to checkout new varieties

of plants and emerging trends in business.

However, the trips are not all work. The St. Louis Cardinals train in Florida, giving Lori and Wendall the chance to watch them play while they’re in the area.

“We try to go there during the Cardinals’ spring training games,” Lori says.

“The spring training facility is in an area where we buy plants from, so we try to work in a game.”

“But it’s all official business,” Wendall adds with a laugh. n

LORI AND WENDELL WYCLIFFE HAVE OPERATED THEIR BUSINESS, INTERIORSCAPES, FOR 25 YEARS

32 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

JACK NICKOLS Broker 417-342-1506 jacknickols@yahoo.com LARRY DANIELS Realtor 417-846-7306 idaniels@mo-net.com

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APRIL 2014

www.freedombk.com CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 33

SECLUSION IN A Rocking Bar B Retreat offers all the luxury of a lakeside vacation, along with providing the conveniences of your own home

quiet cove STORY BY SHERRY TUCKER PHOTOS BY VERONICA ZUCCA

Situated along a quiet cove of Table Rock Lake, Rocking Bar B Retreat is a spacious haven for a weekend getaway. Owners, Tim and Terri Bornholdt, named the home after their ranch in Kansas.

They bought the property after finding it, and falling in love with 34 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

it after an excursion though the serene cove. The Bornholdts enjoy using the retreat for their own family, but have improved upon it, and make it available for rent throughout the year.

As you enter the front door of the home, it is hard not to notice the serenity of the lake APRIL 2014

ROCKING BAR B RETREAT ON TABLE ROCK LAKE SHELL KNOB Owned by Tim and Terri Bornholdt info@rockingbarbretreat.com Call Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce, Karen Elsey, at 858-3300 for more information, or Tim and Terri Bornholdt at 620-242-8818 for pricing, inquiries and availability.

beyond the large backyard, that eases down to the waterfront, through the large picture windows. On the main level is the large kitchen and dining area, which are completely equipped. Also available on the walk-out deck, is a grill ready for use.

APRIL 2014

The house can accommodate a large party of guests. It has four bedrooms, and besides the beds, they provide extra roll-away beds, cribs and other handy amenities. “It is perfect for a large family, or multiple families.

With all the open space

available in the large home, it is also a great place for a ladies quilt retreat,” said Karen Elsey, Shell Knob Chamber director.

Karen also said, “This is the quiet side of the lake, and it’s a perfect place for kids to hang out.”

The top floor is home of the master suite, complete with a gorgeous view, full bathroom, king size bed and large closet.

The master suite, as well as the rest of the home, is warmly decorated with a lot of exposed wood. A fun vintage swimming and lake theme resonates throughout the house.

The bottom floor, a walk-out basement that faces the lake, holds more bedrooms and living area. This living space provides plenty of room for relaxation with a large, comfortably furnished TV and gaming area, as well as a pinball game. By the way, if you play pinball, be sure to keep track of your score on the blackboard, where there is a running tally. n

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 35

VISITbeautiful Come visit the quiet side of the lake.

35 Arborscape Lane, Shell Knob, MO. 65747

417-858-6405 www.bigcreekresort.com Email-big-creek@mo-net.com

April 11 & 12th –

27th Annual Home & Business Show

May 6th –

Field & Fun Day for Shell Knob Elementary School at Chamber Park

Now open inside

July 4th –

Boat Parade and Fire & Thunder Fireworks Display on Table Rock Lake

Cupcakes & Ice Cream

August 9th –

Chamber of Commerce Yard Sale at Chamber Park

Shriekin in the Shell at Chamber Park

November 8th – December 6th –

Shell Knob Merchants Holiday Open House Christmas Tour of Homes in Shell Knob

Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce www.shellknob.com 417-858-3300

ke s an d C

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October 31st –

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35th Annual Homer Sloan Buddy Bass Tournament

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www.shellknob.com 36 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

ul SHELL KNOB First Baptist Church of Shell Knob See our website for service schedule: www.firstbaptistshellknob.com

TABLE ROCK LAKE

25896 Hwy. YY Shell Knob, Mo 65747 • Phone: 417-858-3496 Bob Gaddis – Pastor

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Farmer's Daughter 19685 Stallion Bluff Rd. Shell Knob, MO.

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Jan Thomas

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REALTOR, MGRI

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ROB and TONYA EDWARDS Owners

PAUL TRAUSCH P.O. BOX 303 SHELL KNOB, MO 65747

APRIL 2014

Phone: (417) 858-3747

GENERAL CONTRACTOR CUSTOM HOMES AND LAKEFRONT DEVELOPMENT Ph: Office (417) 858-3358 Home 858-6855

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located inside Treasures Then & Now

The quiet side of the lake CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 37

VISITbeautiful Treasures Then & Now 8,000 Sq foot Antique, Flea Market and Retail Store Bridgeway Plaza | Shell Knob, Mo. | 417-858-1113

FURNITURE VINTAGE GOODS LAWN AND GARDEN ITEMS SPORTING GOODS TOOLS APPLIANCES Stanley Fuller Brush PartyLite Potpourri Amsoil Scentsy

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CENTRAL CROSSING CENTER 20801 YY 15 Shell Knob, MO 65747

Grace Community Fellowship, Shell Knob

Pastor Joe Evans (417) 858-1700 20819 Farm Road 1250 www.gracecommunityfellowshipsk.com

Shell Knob, Missouri

So much more than just a “Senior” Center!

Come on in - see for yourself!

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Donna Matchett REALTOR/BROKER, ABR, MGRI

Ozarks Total Lawn Care Joseph Papp

Viola Corner Shell Knob, MO 65747

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www.shellknob.com 38 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

cell: fax: email: web:

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417.858.3344 24871 State HWY 39 Suite 9 • Shell Knob, MO 65747

APRIL 2014

ul SHELL KNOB

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20 YEARS.

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APRIL 2014

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The quiet side of the lake CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 39

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Central Community United Methodist Church WHERE WE LAUGH WORK, AND WORSHIP THE LORD!

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www.shellknob.com 40 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

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APRIL 2014

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The quiet side of the lake CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 41

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42 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

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APRIL 2014

PROUD PARENT poiuytrnewqas

dfghjklm vb cxz Are you a proud parent?

newqaspoiu ytr MaKenna If so, take this opportunity to show off that cute kid of yours.

We invite you to share a photo of your child to be featured in Connection’s very own proud parent cutest kid contest.

April’s cutest lm cxzdfghjk kid wvb inners Two-year-old MaKenna is the daughter of Luke and Cindy Wilson, of Exeter.

Brodi is the 4-year-old son of Zach and Micah Neill.

Brodi

Email your child’s photo to connection@monett-times.com.

Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. Remember to include your child’s name, parent’s name, age, city and your contact information. The contest is open to children ages 10 and under. The photos submitted will be used for the sole purpose of this contest.

dfghjklm vb cxz APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 43

CONNECTION LIVING

library connections

By Barry-Lawrence Regional Library in Cassville “April showers bring May flowers.

And what do May flowers bring? Pilgrims!”

Remember that riddle from your childhood? The Barry-Lawrence Regional Library has a section in each branch devoted to jokes and riddles. There are sections devoted to gardening, dog training, arts and crafts, cooking and more.

Ask the librarians where the section is that holds your interests. Browse the shelves

- who knows what treasure you’ll find … and you might want to steer your children away from the jokes and riddles.

National Library Week is celebrated this month. This is a time when many local Friends of the Library organizations hold a membership drive. Friends of the Library support branch libraries by raising funds, and creating awareness and appreciation for the library with the local community.

Friends of the Library members believe in the importance of libraries as social and intellectual centers of communities.

If your local branch has a Friends of the Library organization consider joining it. If it doesn’t, consider starting one.

The following recommended reads can be found on the shelves of the BarryLawrence Regional Library or as ebooks from Missouri Libraries 2 Go.

Earthbound

by Aprilynne Pike (YOUNG ADULT FICTION)

When tragedy hits, Tave loses everything and her life changes completely. As her world unravels, secrets are revealed about past lives and Tave discovers she has magical gifts.

Nothing is as it seems and people aren’t who they claim to be. Tave must decide who she can truly trust and who will lead her astray. Full of suspense, romance and adventure this is a great read for both teens and adults. This book kept me on the edge of my seat; I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. Now I’m just waiting for Tave’s story to continue in book two! A.M.

Spider Woman’s Daughter

by Anne Hillerman (MYSTERY)

As a long time major league fan of Tony Hillerman, I was really sad when he passed away, and there would be no more Joe Leaphorn/Jim Chee books. Imagine my delight to discover his daughter Anne had penned a new mystery starring my favorite characters once more. I began with some trepidation, hoping it would be as good, yet fearing disappointment. To my delight, it was as if the master had been reincarnated. I devoured the familiar, yet new story, and thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns, surprises and new insights into the Navajo culture I have so enjoyed for many years. If you love Hillerman, you’re in for a treat. I look forward to more adventures with the tribal police. J.S.

The Cassville Branch library staff consists of Verna Fry, youth services; Jane Severson, library clerk; Angie Judd, library clerk; Amanda Miller, adult services; and Cheryl Williams, supervisor.

44 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION LIVING

An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything

by Col. Chris Hadfield (BIOGRAPHY)

Col. Hadfield decided to be an astronaut when he was nine years old and saw Neil Armstrong walk on the moon. There was a major problem with that dream. He was Canadian. Canada did not have a space program, and the United States only accepted applicants that were U.S. citizens. That did not deter him. From that point on, he decided to think like an astronaut, and he would start immediately. That decision determined the direction his life would take. Would an astronaut eat his vegetables or have potato chips? Would he sleep in late, or get up early to read a book? Full of space adventures and misadventures, this book is written so that an ordinary earth-bound resident can understand and enjoy it. Even though most of us will never get an opportunity to live on the International Space Station, this insightful book will teach you how to think like an astronaut. It will change your perspective toward life. C.W.

Ready Player One

by Ernest Cline

(SCIENCE FICTION)

In Front of God and Everybody: Confessions of April Grace

by K.D. McCrite

In 2044, the world has become a place of poverty and destruction.

Fortunately, there is the virtual world of OASIS in which to escape. Invented

by James Halliday, the ultimate computer geek obsessed with the ‘80s, almost all aspects of life can be enjoyed virtually with gloves and a pair of goggles. Wade Watts is a teenager who spends every second possible in OASIS-going to school, hanging with friends and on the treasure hunt to find Halliday’s hidden “Easter egg” in order to inherit Halliday’s immense fortune. This book was incredibly fun to read; Wade has many obstacles to overcome, evil people to run from, a romance to form, and a crazy amount of ‘80s knowledge to retain. I absolutely LOVED this book and the pop culture references; I think it’s a great, quick read for geeks and non-geeks alike! A.J.

(YOUTH FICTION)

Eleven-year-old April Grace Reilly has the perfect life in the Arkansas Ozarks…except for trying to understand Isabel and Ian St. James, the strange new neighbors from California and the suspicious behavior of Grandma’s Texan boyfriend. Don’t even mention sister Myra Sue’s attempts to be glamorous, and the stinky visits from hippie friends Temple and Forest. In Front of God and Everybody is the humorous first installment in the Confessions of April Grace trilogy and is a 2013-2014 Mark Twain Award nominee. Author K.D. McCrite, a graduate of Springfield’s Drury University, is an Ozarks native. A must-read for any tween, this book and its sequels, Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks and Chocolate-Covered Baloney made me laugh out loud. V.F. n APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 45

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APRIL 2014

CONNECTION LIVING

HEALTHY CONNECTION

how to feel good (at any age)

By Nancy Ridgely

Here are some tips on how to make exercise a habit:

P

HYSICAL ACTIVITY IS KEY FOR feeling good. It also allows you to eat more, feel better, be stronger and have added self-confidence.

There is a passion out there waiting for you! Lunges, squats, burpees, Russian twists and indoor group cycling may not Nancy Ridgley, RD, LD, CDE, is a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes educator for the CoxHealth Center for Health Improvement. She is also a Mad Dogg certified spinning instructor and holds certifications in adult weight management and childhood and adolescent weight management. The mother of three enjoys spinning, reading, Mizzou football, travel, spending time with her children and grandchildren and having coffee with friends. For more information about wellness and living a healthy lifestyle, check out Cox Monett Hospital’s webpage at www.coxhealth.com.

APRIL 2014

1. KEEP IT SIMPLE. Find something you can do easily, close to home and that does not require expensive equipment.

2. EXERCISE WITH A FRIEND who likes to do what you do. Work-out with a group.

3. DON’T WORRY ABOUT PROGRESS. You may see big changes in weight and strength initially, then, it may drop off. This is a lifelong change you are making.

Think long-term.

4. SET UP YOUR LIFE SO IT’S EASY to do what you need to do, and hard to do what you shouldn’t.

5. MAKE YOURSELF A PRIORITY. Do not cancel your appointment at the gym to meet others requests, i.e. you wouldn’t cancel an appointment with the dentist because your sister needed your help to move her fridge; don’t cancel an appointment at the gym because your sister needs your help.

Part of my work-day actually includes be what gets you moving, but there is teaching fitness classes. But, most of you some kind of physical activity capable of do not have this luxury of having exercise turning you on. This activity (which only built into your day. So, you will need to you can decide) will make you go out and schedule exercise time into every day, even do it in any kind of weather, when you are if it means getting up an tired, maybe a little sick, “IF YOU ARE REGULARLY hour early. Yes, I know or when life is throwing PHYSICALLY ACTIVE AND you already get up at 6 punches at you. You may not want to go every YOU ARE OLDER, YOUR BODY a.m., but if you are serious about becoming healthier, time, but you’ll never be ACTS AS IF YOU WERE you will need to crawl out sorry you went.

20 YEARS YOUNGER.” at 5 a.m. instead.

No one said it would Getting started is usually the hardest always feel good or be easy. Often, it hurts; part. A good quote to remember, “Begin other times, you will have an overwhelming with the end in mind.” n sense of elation.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 47

CONNECTION LIVING

a summer to remember BARRY COUNTY YOUTH CAMP Story by Amanda L. Reese

Camp Enrollment In the early years, Barry County Youth Camp comprised a combination of youth from Barry, Lawrence and Stone counties.

The camp now serves Barry County exclusively.

Originally the camp administrators recruited youth through OACAC and DFS, according to Shirley. But after Dottie Davis retired from DFS, the schools began nominating potential campers.

“I take flyers to all the elementary schools in the [designated] area, and they help us find children to sponsor,” said Shirley. “We are looking for about 100 kids, ages 7 to 10. Without the schools help we would be in trouble; they help us find kids who are in need.”

Camp at a Glimpse All campers stay in one of three cabins at Camp Smokey, which include one boys’ cabin and two girls’ cabins.

A colossal amount of fun and activities are squeezed into a small amount of time, according to Shirley. It is a lot of work but well worth the effort to see the smiles on each child’s face.

A

STRONG SENSE OF ARDOR FILLED THE ROOM AS JANE JAMES AND Shirley Bass tenderly discussed the history of and upcoming plans for Barry County Youth Camp. Jane and Shirley serve as co-chairmen, along with 21 other board members, for the annual youth camp, which is held at Camp Smokey located in Roaring River State Park. This summer will mark the camp’s 49-year anniversary.

Barry County Youth Camp offers less fortunate children the chance to enjoy camping at its best, through four days filled with great food, crafts, games, educational field trips, swimming and the opportunity to make new friends.

“We provide a camping experience for youth who would not normally be able to go camping,” said Jane. “It’s our goal to help make children’s lives a little better.”

In the beginning In 1965, Bill Hemphill from Purdy, teamed up with Dottie Davis who was employed with the Department of Family Services (DFS), Jim Freeman from Lawrence County, Una Henderson with Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC), and Marvin Tribble from Barry County. Together, they worked to find children in need and implement the first year of camp.

48 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

“Bill was the Barry County Sheriff at the time he helped the camp get started,” said Jane.

“The Hemphill family’s support has contributed to the success of Barry County Youth Camp.”

Before Bill passed away, he established an annual scholarship fund for graduating seniors; the scholarship is purposed for past campers or counselors, according to Jane. Last year, Barry County Youth Camp and the Hemphill family presented scholarships to three seniors.

“The field trip to the Cassville Aquatic Park is one of the campers’ favorites,” said Jane. “We rent the park for an evening of fun.”

Other camp attractions include the inflatable bounce house and slide, compliments of the YMCA, swimming at the Roaring River pool, and periodically the FFA brings a petting zoo.

“Each year we have a different theme and our programs connect with that theme,” said Jane. “Even the T-shirts we give out to the kids have the camp theme [screen printed] on.”

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION LIVING

Special Speakers Local professionals, speakers and educators come to share their wisdom and knowledge with the young campers. Barry County Youth Camp not only hopes to give the kids a holiday to remember, but would like the kids to go home having gained valuable information to help better their lives, according to Jane.

“The highway patrol is represented and a speaker from the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program talks to the kids,” says Jane. “The Naturalist at Roaring River also participates and puts on a program for our campers. Some years the Zoo from Eagle Rock is at camp.”

Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) attend and speak to campers about awareness, personal boundaries, safety, and how to get help in the case of abuse.

“BACA members usually stay to eat dinner with the campers and make smores,” says Jane. “The kids always like the motorcycles and having their pictures taken while sitting on the bikes.”

Camp Cuisine

and private individuals. Barry County Youth Camp would be impossible without their support.”

“We have no state or any sort of government funding,” adds Shirley. All of the Barry County Youth Camp counselors

are volunteers. There are seven paid staff positions, two co-directors, one nurse, one craft director and three cooks, according to Jane.

“The cooks don’t usually take their money,” says Jane with a smile. “The other staff members normally don’t want paid either. We are in it for the kids.”

Local donations have gone beyond financial contributions. Mary Crist, of Monett, volunteered to wash camp laundry one year. “We supply towels, sheets and blankets for the kids; someone has to do the laundry every year,” says Jane. “With 100 kids, there is a lot of laundry to do. At 11:00 at night, we drop the laundry off to the designated washers.” Top Hat Cleaners in Monett donates their facility and gives Barry County Youth Camp volunteers quarters to wash the laundry, free of charge, according to Shirley.

For information about Barry County Youth Camp or to make a donation, contact Shirley Bass at 417-235-3929.

“For years, the camp cook had to be willing to fry chicken, make fresh dinner rolls and cinnamon rolls,” says Jane.

“Now the kids like chicken strips, but the dinner rolls and cinnamon rolls are a camp tradition.”

The camp currently has three cooks who provide campers with good, well balanced meals, according to Jane. The kids get an assortment of nutritious foods at each meal.

Funding, Volunteers, and Community Donations “We start out each year with one thing, the word is ‘faith’- period,” said Jane.

“This camp is made possible because of the support of churches, civic organizations Amanda is a local wife, mother, uthor and motivational speaker.

Throughout the course of Strengthening Families in the Ozarks,’ she hopes to share biblical insight, relational tips and information for personal growth to enrich and strengthen the bond of family in our communities.

APRIL 2014

THE CRESCENDO “The very last night of camp we have a carnival for the kids,” says Jane. “It is an exciting event for everyone.”

The carnival consists of an array of booths, games, a disc-jockey to play music for the kids, and all sorts of treats, including: cotton candy, snow cones, cookies, and popcorn, along with a smorgasbord of other food.

“It is a chance to eat all you want,” says Shirley. “There is more than enough, which is special, especially for kids who may not always have enough.”

“The kids really love the watermelon,” Jane adds. “One little guy ate around 12 to 15 pieces. We have pictures of him with seeds and juice running down his face,” she laughs.

Jane and Shirley believe in Barry County Youth Camp and the purpose behind it. Both women agreed that they will “still be helping with camp even when they are too old to walk.” n CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 49

CONNECTION LIVING

ON THE JOURNEY

be angry; sin not

BY SHEILA HARRIS

“

It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and … those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.

”

ROBERT F. KENNEDY

50 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

AS I WAS WRITING THIS ESSAY, I BEGAN to feel as if I was writing a sermon, and I had to laugh, fearing the acorn hasn’t fallen far from the tree. My dad, Clark Carlo, has been a preacher ever since I’ve known him, and has regularly busied himself writing sermons to be delivered from a pulpit. I have no desire to preach, but once in a while I’m embarrassed by the notion that perhaps that’s how my writing comes across. Because my life has not been without pitfalls, I certainly don’t consider self-righteousness a virtue, neither in myself nor others. However, I do feel very strongly about certain issues, and righteous anger (a term open to individual interpretation) is sometimes the force which prompts me to write. It’s not always been this way in my life.

“Without anger, there is no enemy,” were the simple yet profound words that caught my attention on a Facebook post recently, prompting me to ponder them the rest of the day. The words are true. No doubt about it. Even so, they left me with a vague feeling of unease, as if there was something hidden beneath their surface, not readily apparent.

I wondered why I was troubled. After all, having no anger sounds like a good thing, and having no enemies sounds even better. In fact, it sounds like a virtual utopia, a place where love and harmony reign supreme. In such a world, anger would have no place. Then it occurred to me; that’s not the world we live in. The sad reality is that we live in a world which is often cruel and unjust. In this world, we are instructed to be angry. That’s Biblical. Look it up.

There was a time, as a much younger woman, when I thought my anger was wrong, un-Christian, even. Nice women weren’t supposed to be angry, I thought. I attempted to subdue it, fearful of allowing it to show because I feared its consequences,

because expressing my anger would involve telling the truth, a dangerous business in a world where truth can be perceived as treason. Burying my anger also allowed me to turn a blind eye to injustice and live in a world where I was not compelled to act or speak out on my own behalf, or on the behalf of others. It felt safer, and I justified my attempt at apathy by supposing I was being more Christian.

However, I have since grown to understand that by refusing to become angry when faced with unjust circumstances, especially when they affect others, I am condoning evil. I am allowing it to flourish unabated, simply because I am afraid to become angry enough to act upon that which I know to be right. As English statesman Edmund Burke so profoundly stated in the 1700s, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

One of my favorite scriptures asks the rhetorical question, “…What doth God require of thee, but to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God?” Anger is a powerfully motivating force.

To do justly and to love mercy will always entail righteous indignation in the face of injustice, and thus result in action on behalf of the oppressed. I’m not much of a fighter; I’m a wimp, really. I try to avoid drama and confrontations of any sort, because I’ve found it’s much easier to live peacefully with all men (and women). Unfortunately, injustice has a way of constantly presenting itself to those who abhor it. Or, perhaps those who abhor it are more sensitive to its presence.

Along with the writer of Ecclesiastes, I have lived long enough to see many evils under the sun, all of which make me angry. Some of you may have other issues that trip your triggers, but following are a few of the injustices that command my personal attention: I am angered by elected officials who refuse to serve the interests

APRIL 2014

of their electorate. I am angered because our nation’s food supply, in fact, our entire government, has been hijacked by corporate greed. I am angered because my tax dollars support the murder of unborn children in this nation, and the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of people, including innocent civilians in foreign lands. Closer to home, I am angered by domestic violence and child abuse, and the abuse of authority by those who wield it. Perhaps most of all, I am angered by those who refuse to question authority in the face of injustice.

These are all social issues of such magnitude that it seems impossible to address them, let alone make a difference on a large scale. Yet, to once again quote Edmund Burke, “Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing, because he could only do a little.”

I have been deeply inspired by the words of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, who so succinctly declared in his address to the students at The University of Cape Town, South Africa, in 1966, “It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and … those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”

Every injustice is worthy of my anger, worthy of my seemingly feeble effort to rectify it, and “Be ye angry” is a Biblical injunction, no less valid than any other. For the sake of mercy, I’m compelled to take that first step down the road toward justice.

I may never discover where that road will lead, but that doesn’t excuse me from beginning the journey. n

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Sheila Harris, who resides in Purdy, is a reader, writer, gardener and blossoming student of politics. She has an avid interest in the connection between the spiritual and the physical, and the way our choices affect the world around us, on both a personal and collective level. Sheila is a frequent Connection contributor and works as an advertising sales representative for The Monett Times and all its magazine products.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 51

For the love of books Sara Parker turned her love of books to a lifetime of service STORY AND PHOTOS BY KERRY HAYS

S

ARA PARKER HAS ALWAYS loved to read books. As a young girl, she would sneak away on Sunday afternoons, to the loft of her grandfather’s barn, and read until the sunlight faded. Sara’s passion for reading would become her vocation, and in a career that spanned over forty years, her efforts would, quite literally, open new worlds to

52 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

millions of people throughout the country.

As is the case with many residents of Barry County, Sara came from humble origins. Her ancestors were among the first settlers of the county in the 1830s.

Her grandfather lost his farm in the depression of the 1930s, and it was only through the efforts of her mother, a schoolteacher, that the family was able to

regain their land. A student desk from the school can be found alongside a bookshelf in Sara’s home, and it serves as a testament to her mother.

Sara attended school in Monett and, upon graduation, went to Oklahoma State where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. Continuing to follow her dream of becoming a librarian, Sara received her master’s degree in library science from Kansas State Teacher’s College in Emporia. She returned to Barry County for her first job as a librarian.

“The first job I had was in Monett,” said Sara. “There was a vacancy at the BarryLawrence Library and my dad said, ‘There’s a job down at the library, you ought to go down and apply for it.’ The director had a lot of confidence in me, and I became a jack of all trades.”

Sara worked in this position for four years and it was while serving here that the American Library Association sponsored its first National Library Week in 1966. Research at the time had shown that children were spending too much time listening to the radio and watching television. Librarians were encouraged to develop programs that would inspire children to read more.

One of Sara’s responsibilities in the position was to ride the bookmobile throughout the county. This was her way of inspiring others to read in isolated areas of the region.

“I rode the bookmobile to the last oneroom schoolhouse in Barry County,” said Sara who noted that the school was called Clay Hill.

Sara moved to the Springfield-Greene County Library in 1967 to assume a position with more responsibility. She began working as the assistant reference librarian, but received several promotions over the years she worked there.

“I moved from adult services to head of bookmobile operations. From there, I moved to a 25-county cooperative in southwest Missouri,” said Sara, who was beginning to expand her vision into making a difference on a larger scale by serving as a regional facilitator for public, school and special libraries. Some special libraries, such as the East Wind Commune, offered particularly unusual services.

“It actually was a specialized library in communal literature,” said Sara. “They APRIL 2014

badly needed inter-library loan services and that’s what probably brought them into the network.”

In addition to inter-library loans, Sara was also involved in providing assistance for regional planning, collection analysis and training opportunities. For the larger collections, she also helped develop an index for periodicals that originated from the Ozarks.

“At that time periodicals like the Ozark Mountaineer and the local county historical bulletins had valuable information that wasn’t indexed in a way that could be found by people who lived there,” said Sara, who noted that this crucial work of compiling data from “fugitive literature” was accomplished by a group of reference librarians from the cooperative.

After two years with the Southwest Missouri Regional Network, Sara would leave Barry County for the next 27 years and use the valuable experiences she gained here to work in the state libraries of four different states. The first was Colorado, and a great deal of her energy there was spent in library development.

“I had the strangest job title in the world in Colorado. Basically, what I did was supervise the seven regional systems throughout the state, and I headed up all the library development function of the state library,” said Sara, who noted her job title was regional library services system coordinator, and that her responsibilities included enforcement of library laws, training and the distribution of funds from grant programs.

After working in Colorado for four years, Sara moved further north to the state of Montana where she was appointed state librarian – a position she would hold until 1988. It was here that she began her involvement in overseeing the greatest evolutionary change in the delivery of library services – from card catalogues to computerized classification systems.

When Sara first graduated from library school, books were catalogued by hand with a detailed analysis of the title page, a cataloguing reference book and a typewriter. Each library’s collection was independent and isolated. Older materials were placed on microfilm or microfiche for preservation, and specialized information required specialized indices that were often difficult to find. n APRIL 2014

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As state librarian in Montana, Sara was also given the responsibility of organizing data for the state parks. “The technology still wasn’t there, but we were building things in pieces,” said Sara. “We were asked to run the fisheries data base, but we didn’t have the fisheries layer. The technology didn’t let you do it all yet.”

Nevertheless, Sara is proud to have been involved in the development of the Natural Resource Information System while serving as Montana’s state librarian. The transformation to electronic based systems was a challenge that she still remembers as an adventure.

“It was just tremendously exciting because there was some uniformity in the dreams that librarians had and there were always library leaders that stretched that out further than others. It was so wideopen to do whatever you could do, and whatever you could find the money to buy,” said Sara.

Sara next accepted an appointment as state librarian for the state of Pennsylvania.

54 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

By then, information systems had expanded and the Internet was becoming part of everyday life. She would serve as an adviser to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and witness the integration of computer systems into libraries throughout the state.

She also used legislative skills, developed over the years, to help elected officials see the crucial need libraries served in society. Her proudest accomplishment in Pennsylvania was her involvement in the passage of Keystone 93 – an act provided for a portion of library funding from an on-going taxing source.

Sara had one more stop on her amazing professional journey as a librarian. This last appointment came from Jefferson City, where she accepted the call to come home and become state librarian in Missouri.

“I wanted to work for libraries in the place where I started out,” said Sara. “My happiest days were the days we dedicated new libraries.” Sara estimated nearly 100 libraries were dedicated during her tenure as state librarian.

Sara retired in 2005 after having served 10 years in the position of Missouri state librarian. It was 10 years filled with challenges, continual innovation and vision.

During that time, she would serve as president of the National State Librarians Association and she also represented the United States at the International Association of Parliamentary and Assembly Librarians.

Sara returned to Barry County and now lives in the home owned by her grandfather at the confluence of Jenkins and Flat Creeks.

Her home is filled with bookcases – each dedicated to a specific subject.

She continues to serve on several local boards and visits the library regularly. She holds high regard for her peers and offers these insightful words as we once again celebrate National Library Week during the second week of this month.

“I think libraries are so grounded in community that they’ll have a wonderful future as long as they focus on that. Focus on themselves as building community,” said Sara.

APRIL 2014

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2309 Fairlawn Dr., Carthage CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 55

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56 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

DIRT ROADS AND RAILROADS STORY AND PHOTOS BY SHERRY TUCKER

ALL ABOARD! A ride on the Arkansas Missouri Railroad is a step back in time, and an experience unlike anything else.

The tracks that built our towns.

We are all familiar with the whistle blow of a train and the rumble of the train tracks. Whether it’s a faint echo heard on warm summer nights far in the country, or that sound accompanied by the ‘ding-ding’ of the warning lights in a nearby city. It’s a piece of American life that has not changed remarkably in the last few generations. Though the use and necessity of the train has changed, the characteristics, and our delight in the nostalgia of the train, has not faded.

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In our not so distant past, the need for trains in the transport of commerce and people was imperative to the growth and stability of our small, rural communities. All of our small towns had a depot, including Seligman. Seligman, which became a town in 1881, did not grow substantially till the railroad was placed through it.

The train system that traveled through Seligman, from Arkansas and on further north into Missouri, was part of the St. Louis – San Francisco (Frisco) railway system that was built in the 1880s. Since 1985, the rail system from Fort Smith, Ark., to Monett has been

owned and operated by Arkansas & Missouri Railroad (from www.amrailroad. com). It is a 139-mile stretch of track.

Though freight is the primary function of the system, they also offer many passenger excursions.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce has been working with the excursion department of the A&M Railroad for 10 years to provide fun passenger opportunities on the vintage passenger cars owned and operated by A&M. This kind of passenger service available on a commercial railway is very uncommon anymore, so this offering is unique.

HISTORIC VAN BUREN WAS FILLED WITH CRAFT FAIR VENDORS ON THE BEAUTIFUL OCTOBER DAY LAST FALL.

Don’t need to be a hobo to catch a ride!

Last fall, we took a ride on the A&M Railroad from Seligman. It was the first time I had ever rode on a train, and it was an unforgettable experience. My mom and youngest son rode, too, and it was their first ride on a train as well. The mid-October day started out dark, dreary and rainy in the parking lot of the Seligman City Hall.

Soon we heard the train coming, then saw its lights from the dark tracks through the trees. All of the passengers walked across the lot, to the tracks, and boarded the train with the assistance of the conductors and a show of our tickets.

We rode in the first-class car, which was a beautiful 1950s vintage parlor car with table and chair seating. With windows completely encompassing the walls, the unencumbered view from the train-car was very interesting. They also have coach cars available with booth seating. Another travel option is a ride in a real caboose.

The most posh option is a ride in the classy Vista-Dome car that the A&M acquired not long ago, from Canada. The Vista-Dome car features second floor seating surrounded by a glass sun-roof.

For information about booking a trip on the historic A&M railroad passenger excursions from Seligman, contact Cleta Stanley at the Seligman Chamber of Commerce, 417-662-3612.

2014 Excursions offered by the Seligman Chamber of Commerce: • May 17 and 18 to Van Buren, Ark. • Oct 11 and 12 to Van Buren, Ark. • Dec 20 Christmas ride to Rogers, Ark.

58 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

MY MOM, ALICE AND MY YOUNGEST SON, NATE, SITTING IN THE FIRST CLASS PASSENGER CAR OF THE ARKANSAS & MISSOURI RAILROAD, AFTER WE BOARDED AT SELIGMAN FOR OUR TRIP TO VAN BUREN, ARK.

Riding down the rail, which is most often off the beaten path from the usual vehicle highways, was like taking a ride down a private country road.

From Seligman, then through Gateway and Garfield, the country scenery was beautiful as morning opened up and the rain went away. The dreary October day was turning into a perfect fall day with the sun coming out and the trees that framed our journey south into Arkansas were just changing into their fall colors. The conductor explained that the train was not allowed to travel more than 40 mph, a good pace for a leisure ride through the country.

Our journey was going to be a long one -- all the way to Van Buren, just north of Fort Smith. The historic community of Van Buren was hosting a craft fair with live music. The train route runs through the Boston mountains, through towns that are situated mostly along the route of old Hwy. 71. After making our way through (and picking up more passengers) the Rogers, Springdale and Fayetteville area, we, again, found ourselves in beautiful country settings.

THE VISTA-DOME TRAIN CAR IS ANOTHER OF THE VINTAGE PASSENGER CARS THAT THE A&M RAILROAD OWN AND PROVIDE FOR THE TRAIN EXCURSIONS.

Throughout the ride, the conductors were happy to answer questions about the trains, about the towns we rode through, and tell historical stories about travelers and train-rides.

We rode through a long, quarter-mile tunnel at Winslow that was pitch black. We also rode over two high trestles that took us across very deep ravines. While going over the trestles, the conductors invited passengers to stand on the open end of the train-car and take pictures over the large expanse. It was an amazing sight, and looking down was not recommended for those afraid of heights!

Once we got to Van Buren, the train stopped and let us off right at the depot, APRIL 2014

in old downtown. The historic town is a beautiful sight. After walking among craft vendors and eating a good burger at the Boomerang Diner, we sat and awaited the train while listening to live music.

The train, which had made a trip to take passengers from Van Buren to Winslow, came back to pick us up. Before loading us, though, they maneuvered the engines in a different configuration to accommodate the power needed to get us back north through the mountains, and then re-boarded us.

The trip back, though just as nice, was more lazy and quiet. By the time we rolled into Seligman, it was dark. We had spent the whole day on a nostalgic journey. n CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 59

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1-800-255-4194 60 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

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APRIL 2014

CONNECTION LIVING

connection’s cutest pet If you think your furry or feathered friend is the cutest in the area, let us know!

We invite you to share a photo of your pet to be featured in Connection’s very own Connection’s Cutest Pet contest.

APRIL’S CUTEST PET WINNER Charlie proves that cute pets come in all shapes and sizes. He is a Chinese dwarf hamster owned by Carder Eaton, of Pierce City.

Email your pet’s photo to connection@monett-times.com. Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible.

Remember to include your pet’s name, city you reside in and your contact information.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 61

CONNECTION FOOD

A

TASTE PAKISTAN OF

Story by Susan Funkhouser

A

MERICAN FARM WORKER, LABOR LEADER and civil rights activist Cesar Chavez observed, “If you really want to make a friend, go to someone’s house and eat with him. The people who give you their food give you their heart.” The students in Joe Bauer’s Foods Class at Purdy High School recently experienced this cultural phenomenon when J.R. and Yasmin Akhtar visited the class for a Pakistani cooking demonstration. Enticed by the glorious aromas of Curry and Cardamom, staff members and students from other classes peeked in the doorway as Yasmin, and her daughter Saima, prepared Coconut Chicken, Singaporean Rice, Naan and Mango Lassi. As mother and daughter worked in tandem, J.R. spoke to the students about Pakistani food culture and his own family’s appreciation of culinary creations from all parts of the globe. Like all wise husbands, he boasted of his wife’s exceptional skills in the kitchen, displaying a recipe handwritten in her native tongue, Urdu.

“My wife has created over 300 recipes, and they’re all good!”

62 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

After watching Yasmin’s cooking demonstration and personally sampling the sublime results of her labors, I knew I wanted to discover more about this quiet woman who has lived in Purdy for the past four years and to introduce her to you. I invite you to pull up a chair at the table, savor the aromas and flavors and embrace a taste of Pakistan graciously provided by Yasmin Akhtar.

Yasmin was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. Karachi, the capital of the Sindh province, is located on the Arabian coastline.

Yasmin and her six siblings spent their childhood days going to school, playing hopscotch with friends and engaging in household chores. Yasmin’s mother and older sisters began teaching her at an early age the domestic arts of embroidery and cooking. Yasmin recalls, “I didn’t really like cooking or laundry as a child!”

Yasmin married J.R. Akhtar in Pakistan in 1994. “Our weddings involve three different phases. The first is a celebration among the two families, with music, food and dancing. The second is the Henna ceremony, and the third is the wedding ceremony and reception.”

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION FOOD

According to Yasmin, marriages in Pakistan are steeped in traditions much like ours in the United States. “Instead of throwing rice at the married couple’s car, we throw flowers.”

The Akhtar family moved from Pakistan to the United States in 1999, where Yasmin found preparing traditional Pakistani dishes to be a bit of a challenge. “Cooking in the United States is very different. People here use different spices and a lot of cheese. At first it was hard to find the ingredients for our traditional dishes, especially the spices, but it’s easier now. I find most everything I need at the India Mart in Rogers, Arkansas.”

As the Akhtar family adjusted to life in the United States, Yasmin found herself developing a passion for cooking. “My husband loves to eat! After we got married I began studying cookbooks and trying new recipes. He loved it! When he said, “It’s good!” I was inspired to learn more. Now I search the Internet for new ideas. I love to make new recipes for my family!”

In addition to trying new recipes from a wide variety of food cultures including American, Italian, Chinese and Mexican, Yasmin also prepares beloved family recipes handed down to her from her mother, mother-in-law and sisters. “I love to make Biryani. It is a very popular dish in Pakistan. It is made of rice, vegetables and meat. I also make a dish called Quarma.

It is a traditional Pakistani wedding recipe.”

The Akhtars own and operate the Purdy Mobile Home Park and Rentals on State Hwy. 37. As a busy working J.R. AKHTAR ADDRESSES THE PURDY wife, and mother of HIGH SCHOOL FOODS CLASS two busy high school students, Yasmin YASMIN AKHTAR WORKS HER MAGIC IN quickly discovered THE KITCHEN the importance of time management and balance in her household operations.

Six years ago, she adopted the “cook once for the whole week” method. “Every Saturday I cook everything we will need for the upcoming week. I love to cook this way on Saturdays.

It gives me satisfaction and peace.” Yasmin cooks five to six dishes APRIL 2014

per week, which her family has at its disposal during hectic evenings throughout the week. “Sometimes our job requires us to travel during the day. When I come home late at night I am tired, and don’t want to cook. Having everything prepared is nice.”

Although the Akhtars lead a busy life, they remain committed to family dinners, a strong Pakistani tradition. “In Pakistan families eat lunch and dinner together every day. In my family we cook a lot of food and enjoy eating and being together, joking around and having fun. It is very important.”

Yasmin’s two youngest children enjoy the benefits of family time around the dinner table. Umar, a sophomore at Purdy High School, prefers American fare. “Umar is picky. He doesn’t like vegetables or most Pakistani foods. He loves sandwiches and cheeseburgers. Pizza is his favorite. He would eat it every day!”

Pakistani food culture is not entirely lost on Umar. When I asked him to identify his favorite dish made by his mother he quickly responded, “Coconut Chicken!” When asked about his son’s skills in the kitchen, J.R. quipped, “Umar only knows how to eat!”

Yasmin’s youngest daughter, Saima, a freshman at Purdy High School, loves most Pakistani food and is learning to prepare it under the expert tutelage of her mother. “Saima helps a lot in the kitchen. She chops vegetables and washes dishes for me. She CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 63

CONNECTION FOOD

always tells me, ‘Mommy, I feel bad if I go in my room and rest while you’re working in the kitchen.’ She is concerned for me.” Yasmin also reports that Saima is an expert at making Chai. “She makes me ginger tea. I just love it!” Saima’s favorite recipe is Singaporean Rice, the dish she helped her mother prepare for the Purdy High School Foods Class. She is also quite fond of Gajar Halwa, a carrot-based dessert popular in Pakistan.

THE AKHTAR FAMILY, FROM LEFT: UMAR, SAIMA, LUKE (J.R. AND YASMIN’S GRANDSON), YASMIN AND J.R.

In addition to passing down over 300 handwritten recipes that reflect their Pakistani food culture, the Akhtars also hope to instill in their children the Pakistani cultural virtues of hard work, respect, hospitality and generosity. The Akhtars’ four older children currently pursue careers in a wide variety of service fields. “Our oldest son, Shazad, is in the military. He is stationed in Colorado.

Our oldest daughter, Uzma, is in medical school and will start her residency in May. Our daughter, Farah, lives in Houston and is studying to be a social worker.

Our daughter, Hinna, also lives in Houston, Texas. She serves in the Army and is studying to be a pediatrician. We don’t want them to become doctors or other things just to make money or to be famous. We want them to help the poor, especially children. We want all of our children to be successful, but also helpful, to make a difference in the world.”

The people who give you their food give you their heart. As I wrapped up my visit with Yasmin, and we began to swap family stories and cooking techniques, I discovered that our cultures in the kitchen and in life in general share a great deal of common ground. Although our tastes and techniques differ greatly at times, we share a common dream for those we love. Whether it is written in Urdu or English, the recipe for a successful life is the same – sharing your heart, as well as your background, skills and values with the world. n

SINGAPOREAN RICE 2 lb. Rice 1/2 package Thin Spaghetti 2 lb. Chicken 2 Tomatoes, seeded 1 Cup Cabbage, sliced 1 medium Onion, cubed 1/2 Cup Carrots, julienned 1 Bell Pepper, cubed 6 Garlic Cloves, thinly sliced

1 tbsp. Ginger, julienned 1 tsp. Ginger Paste 1 tsp. Garlic Paste 3 tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce 1/2 tsp. Salt 2 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper, divided 1 tsp. Black Pepper, divided 5 tbsp. Chili Sauce, divided 4 tbsp. Soy Sauce, divided

Marinating the chicken: Combine the ginger paste, garlic paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, 1 tsp. crushed red pepper, ½ tsp. black pepper, 3 tbsp. chili sauce, 2 tbsp. soy sauce and 5 tbsp. ketchup. Add chicken, refrigerate and marinate for 30 minutes.

Preparing the sauce: Combine the mayo, sugar, vinegar and the remaining crushed red pepper, black pepper, chili sauce, soy sauce and ketchup in a bowl. Set aside Preparing the layers: Boil the rice with 1 tsp. salt and 3 tbsp. oil until cooked. Drain and set aside. Boil the noodles in 1 tsp. salt and 3 tbsp. oil until cooked. Drain and set aside. In a skillet heat 5 tbsp. of oil.

Add the sliced garlic and fry until golden brown. Remove. In the same

64 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

10 tbsp. Ketchup, divided 1/2 Cup Mayo 1 tsp. Sugar 2 tbsp. Vinegar 2 tsp. Salt, divided (for cooking rice and noodles) 11 tbsp. Oil, divided (for cooking rice and noodles and stir frying chicken and vegetables)

pan/oil add the cut ginger and fry at medium heat for approximately 1 minute. Add marinated chicken. Stir, cover and cook until the chicken is tender and juicy. Do not overcook. Set aside. In a separate skillet heat 4 tbsp. oil. Add cubed onion, carrot, bell pepper, tomatoes and cabbage. Toss over high heat.

Assembly: In a 9 X 13 baking dish layer the rice. Drizzle 4 tbsp. of sauce over the rice. Layer the noodles. Drizzle another 4 tbsp. of sauce over the noodles. Layer the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle another 4 tbsp. of sauce over the vegetables. Layer the chicken, and add the rest of the sauce and fried garlic. Enjoy!

APRIL 2014

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Palm /Passion Sunday April 13 • 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Holy Monday, April 14 • Litany 12 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Holy Tuesday-April 15 • Litany 12 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Holy Wednesday • Litany April 16 • 12 p.m.

Holy Wednesday • Seder Supper April 16 • 6 p.m.

Maundy Thursday, April 17 Divine Service with Holy Communion • 12 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Good Friday, April 18 Tenebrae Service • 7 p.m.

Holy Saturday, April 19 Easter Vigil • 7 p.m.

Easter Sunday, April 20 Sunrise Service • 8 a.m.

Easter Breakfast • 9 a.m.

Festival of Hymns Worship • 10:30 a.m.

APRIL 2014

We cater!

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505 Plaza Drive, Monett 417-354-8408

acambarorestaurant.com CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 65

CONNECTION FOOD

RESTAURANT REVIEW

the roadhouse gets your motor runnin’ Story by Sherry Tucker Photos by Veronica Zucca

ROADHOUSE GRILL AND PUB 417-858-6886 26247 State Hwy. 39, Shell Knob

T

HE ROADHOUSE GRILL AND Pub offers a classic American food menu and a comfortable, fun atmosphere. A large variety of burgers and sandwiches are offered, “My favorite is the Roadhouse Burger,” said waitress, Sherry Atkinson, with a smile.

THE PHILLY CHEESE-STEAK IS PILED HIGH WITH THINSLICED STEAK, ONIONS AND PEPPERS, WITH SWISS CHEESE.

THE SIGNATURE ROADHOUSE BURGER IS A CLASSIC, HAND-PATTIED BURGER, TOPPED WITH AMERICAN CHEESE, BACON, FRIED ONION BLOOMS AND BARBEQUE SAUCE.

66 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

In complete agreement with Sherry, the Roadhouse Burger, with home-cut fries did not disappoint. “It’s not on the menu, but ask for home-cut fries, and we’ll make them,” advised Kim George, who operates as general manager. The juicy, hand-pattied burger, was served on Texas toast, topped with American cheese, bacon, fried onion blooms and barbecue sauce. Complete with fresh lettuce, onion and pickle slices, the burger was filling and flavorful. “We are putting together a new menu and adding some new items,” said Kim. Among added items, she mentioned that cooks, Mike and Chelli, were working on; they plan to add chocolate cake and milk shakes.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION FOOD

Kim also explained that beyond the menu offerings, they have special entrees available, “Thursday night we have a Mexican dinner and Margarita specials.

Friday night we have a fish-fry.”

The restaurant and bar are spacious, as well as the parking lot.

The bar area is equipped with TV’s, so sports fans can keep up with their

APRIL 2014

favorite teams. Kim, who bar tends as well, mentioned, “The tourists are a lot of fun; they are new faces and new energy.” With long hours, plenty of room, and occasional live music, the Roadhouse is accommodating to local and seasonal residents.

The restaurant and bar are fully decorated with nostalgic, Americana

décor that is visually appealing. “Mike decorated it all. It’s all from things he has collected,” said Kim, of owner, Mike Gardener.

The Roadhouse is open for lunch and dinner and offers extra hours during the busy summer lake season. For more information, contact Kim, or manager, Susie Gray, at 417-858-6886. n

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 67

Mocha Jo’s

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These testimonials are not intended to make claims that these products can be used to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. These claims have not been clinically proven or evaluated by the FDA.

Sunday - Closed Gift Cards, Mugs, Sweatshirts, and Consignment Items.

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LADIES NIGHT Drink Specials

Fri. April 25 • 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. $5 cover charge

10 8

Opening Special guests Chad Sullins And The Last Call Coalition

Cole Porter Band

Friday April 18 at 9:00 PM. $10 cover charge.

67

Sat. April 12 • 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. $10 cover charge

6 3r 5-5 dS 3 -2 treet • Monett • 417

TUESDAY POOL LEAGUE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

$2 Tuesday on all Domestic Beer

Chicken wings and appetizers available! ½ lb. Bacon Cheeseburger 68 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

NEW

burger ½ lb. Philly Cheese APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014

101 N. Hickory, On the Square

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Friday night seafood buffets

Wine and Beer Served Mon. - Fri. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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Saturday 7 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Sunday Brunch 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

New 3rd Location!

510 E. Hwy. 32 • Stockton CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 69

• Delicious homemade soups • Hearty sandwiches • Fresh bakery treats • Specialty coffees

Steaks • Seafood Sandwiches • Buffet Desserts • Bar menu Daily breakfast menu WEEKEND BREAKFAST BUFFET EASTER LUNCH BUFFET

200 Washington St., Purdy, Mo. • 417-442-3014 Tuesday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. • Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Banquet room available

THIS IS YOUR COUNTRY ANY MAKE OR MODEL

AS LOW AS

10

$

*

Open daily 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

114 Chapell Drive Monett, Missouri

235-3350

www.angusbranch.com We cater!

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417-847-2137 HWY 37 SOUTH CASSVILLE

* See dealer for complete details of this special offer. Includes up to 5 quarts of oil, filter, and multi-point check up. Diesels and synthetics higher. Mopar Buy 1 for $40 get 3 Free = $10 each.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION FOOD

from the recipe box

By Darlene Wierman

CALIFORNIA CLUB SANDWICH 4 avocados, sliced 1 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup chili sauce 24 slices white toast Lettuce 2 large tomatoes, sliced 8 slices cooked turkey 1 lb. bacon, cooked crisp Salt and pepper Pimiento-stuffed olives Blend mayonnaise and chili sauce; spread on toast.

Assemble 8 double-decker sandwiches with avocado and remaining ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. Quarter sandwiches; secure with cocktail picks and garnish with olives. Make 8 sandwiches.

PULLED PORK SANDWICH

PARMESAN CHICKEN SALAD

Pork shoulder Dry rub (cumin, red pepper, garlic) Coleslaw (mayonnaise, red vinegar, mustard, red wine, poppy seeds, pineapple) BBQ sauce Rolls

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts salt and pepper to taste 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup chopped fresh basil 2 cloves crushed garlic 3 stalks celery, chopped 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Rub down the pork shoulder with dry rub.

Place the pork shoulder into the smoker for 13-14 hours. Take the shoulder out of the smoker and pull the meat off the bone. Place the pulled pork on the roll. Scoop the coleslaw onto the pork. Pour sauce over the sandwich.

Season chicken with salt and pepper.

Roast at 375 degrees for 35 minutes, or until juices run clear. Let cool, and chop into chunks. In a food processor, puree the mayonnaise, basil, garlic and celery.

Combine the chunked chicken, pureed mixture, and Parmesan cheese and toss.

Refrigerate until ready and serve.

SLOW COOKER BARBECUE PULLED PORK 1 (14 ounce) can beef broth 3 pounds boneless pork ribs 1 (18 ounce) bottle barbecue sauce Pour can of beef broth into slow cooker, and add boneless pork ribs. Cook on High heat for 4 hours, or until meat shreds easily. Remove meat, and shred with two forks.

It will seem that it’s not working right away, but it will. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Transfer the shredded pork to a Dutch oven or iron skillet, and stir in barbecue sauce. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until heated through.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 71

&Printing Graphic Design

New, State-Of-The-Art Dental Office

Children’s & Family Dentistry We offer digital X-rays, ortho, crowns, bridges and root canals.

Brochures

We accept most dental plans Missouri Medicaid providers up to age 21.

Thomas ALMS Jr., D.D.S.

312 Broadway Monett, MO 417.737.4330

155 W. Patterson • Mt. Vernon, Mo. • 466-3443 HOURS: Mon. - Thur: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 - 5 p.m.

WE HAVE A FLAVOR

FOR EVERY APPETITE! WEEKLY LUNCH & DINNER SPECIALS

Breakfast Anytime

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 202 S. HWY 37 MONETT 5:30AM - 10PM

400 S. MAIN ST. CASSVILLE 5:00AM - 9PM

417-235-8200 417-847-0782 72 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION FOOD

BOTTLES AND BREWS

hop into spring with these seasonal spirits

By Veronica Zucca

The Boston Beer Company

Samuel Adams Alpine Spring Availability: Spring

This unfiltered lager has a hazy, golden-hued brew. A citrus aroma is joined with a slight spiciness and crisp flavors of lemon and orange, with a moderately sweet body reminiscent of honey and caramel.

Mothers Brewing Company

Spring Batch: Farmhouse Style Ale Availability: Spring

Inspired by the saisons of yesteryear, Mother’s Spring Batch has a deep golden hue and medium body. It balances earthy, floral and slight yeast flavors with a touch of fruity hop for a bright, dry finish.

Visit our locations in

MONETT, PURDY AND CASSVILLE

Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company

Canoe Paddler

Availability: January - July

This Kölsch-style beer is easy-drinking and crisp, with a hint of rye for a slightly spicy flavor and a clean, dry finish. A medium-bodied German classic that’s perfect for winding down and relaxing.

Boulevard Brewing Company

Boss Tom’s Golden Bock Availability: April - May

Locations: Try our Beer Finder This maibock-style lager offers a smooth, soft maltiness of a traditional lager and is complemented by a noticeable hop presence. It has a crisp, subtle floral aroma, and finishes with a lingering dryness and just a hint of caramel.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

Summerfest

Availability: March - August

Crisp summertime lager is golden, dry and incredibly drinkable. Summerfest has a delicate and complex malt flavor and spicy and floral hop character—the perfect warm weather beer.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 73

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

on the spot:

B

Becky Caddell

ECKY CADDELL, WHO GRACES the cover of this month’s Connection, owns and operates Farmers Daughter Floral and Greenhouse in Shell Knob. Becky and her husband, Jerry, have lived in Shell Knob for nearly 30 years and have become integrated within the diverse community that lives there.

Becky, whose bright smile and energetic personality reflects her positive countenance, enjoys the opportunity to bring joy to her customers by providing beautiful flowers and quality plants. She enjoys working with families, whether it is to plan flower arrangements for a wedding or funeral service, or to help someone choose bedding flowers or vegetable plants for an outdoor garden.

The Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce recently chose Becky to be awarded the “Business Person of the Year Award,” at its annual banquet held March 22. “One thing about Becky, she always has a smile in her voice. She has such a happy, sweet, caring voice, and she does so much for our community,” said Karen Elsey, chamber director. “Every year she and Jerry organize the boat parade on the 4th of July. She also does a ‘shop local’ event the second week of November every year,” said Karen. Becky has also helped with Shell Knob city beautification.

Becky and Jerry have been married for 35 years. They built, and began the floral shop in that location in 2007. They have one dog, Roscoe, three cats, Tuna, Wally and Tinker and a pond full of fish.

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FARMERS DAUGHTER FLORAL AND GREENHOUSE Lake Road 39-4

North of town, turn across from main fire station. 1/2 mile on the left

417-858-0413 www.farmersdaughterfloral.com APRIL 2014

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Connection: Tell us when you became part of the Shell Knob community: Becky: We moved to Shell Knob in the spring of 1986. We fell in love with the lake!

Connection: How did you meet your husband?

Becky: Jerry’s family moved to my home town of Perry, Kan., when we were juniors in high school.

Connection: How long have you worked in the flower/growing business, and why do you love it?

Becky:: I started working in greenhouses right after I was married in 1978. Being a farm girl, I was always outside playing in the dirt. Each spring I would help Mom plant a large veggie garden, and I added zinnias and marigolds. I loved to pick wildflowers and have them in my bedroom. In 1973, while in high school, I took a continuing education class on flower arranging and was hooked!

Connection: We hear that you and your husband organize the 4th of July boat parade on Table Rock Lake. How did you start that?

Becky: We didn’t start it. The chamber had the idea, and the first few years it was held at 9 a.m. on the 4th of July. No one was coming to watch, and that is the idea of a parade! When you say something should be changed, you get to be in charge! Now the parade is at 7 p.m. just ahead of the big Fire and Thunder Fireworks on the lake in Shell Knob, and we have a huge crowed to view the boat parade! Everyone is invited to be in the parade, no charge, just come join the fun!! Jerry and I have a huge love of boats and being on the water. We own several boats. Our favorite is a classic, wooden, 1967 Owens Aruba cabin cruiser.

That is the boat that leads the parade. We are members of the Hartland Classic boat club, which is a chapter of the international Antique and Classic Boat Society.

Connection: There is a restoration of the CCC Conservation area. What are your plans and how are you involved with that?

Becky: Dogwood Trail Garden Club partnered with the Forestry Department in the late 80s to turn the CCC camp in Shell Knob into a city park. The garden club APRIL 2014

BECKY’S FAVORITES: FAVORITE FLOWERS: My favorite cut flowers are stock and freesia because of the fragrance. My favorite flowering plants are hellebores, the first to bloom in the spring, orchids and begonias.

ON THE BUCKET LIST: To go up in a hot air balloon; go on a river boat trip in Europe.

FAVORITE PLACES IN SHELL KNOB: The Lake, our dock and our boats, and my garden!

FAVORITE BOAT: Owens Aruba

installed and maintains three flower beds in the park. The flower bed around the flag pole is being revamped this spring. I have been a member of the club since 1986.

Connection: Do you have any future plans for your shop?

Becky: Of course, I would like it to grow!

It is a tough business right now. In the last 5 years over half of the flower shops in America have closed because of the economy. Like everything else, fresh flowers and plants have gone up and up. I offer my customers the freshest product at a competitive price. I offer services that

you don’t receive when you buy flowers at a grocery store or big box store. I take great care in processing my cut flowers for longer vase life, adding to the length you can enjoy your flowers. I tailor each bouquet to express the feeling behind the giving of each bouquet.

Hopefully, spring planting will be here soon, after this long winter. We offer a variety of bedding plants, hanging baskets, plants for mixed planters, perennials, tomatoes, pepper and herb plants. I have drought resistant and deer resistant plants.

I have been gardening most of my life, I love to have my hands in the soil! n

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 75

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PHARMACY Pick up your diabetic testing supplies here

We now have vaccinations available!

Two locations to serve you

Celebrating 30 years...

loving God, loving each other!

CHAPEL OF GRACE Pastor, Jim Copley 1153 Farm Road 1060 • Monett From Junction of Highways 37 & 60, go two miles west, then ¼ mile south.

Sater Pharmacy 705 Main, Cassville • 417-847-2315

Old Town Pharmacy

Sunday School 10 a.m. • Worship 10:30 a.m. • Sunday evening 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday evening 7 p.m. Also, Royal Rangers and Missionettes

Come experience the “Grace Embrace!”

100 Chapell, Monett • 417-635-1100

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APRIL 2014

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

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familiar faces Roaring River State Park marked the start of trout season on Opening Day held on March 1.

1. Larry Zebert. 2. Robby Moody and Lania Lowe. 3. Chuck Beaty.

4. Dakota Doss and Trent Arnaud. 5. Jeremy Antill Sr. and Joe Casper.

6. James Tilford. 7. Jim Williams and James Williams. 8. Joe Rosenbalm 9. Roper Brown and Cheyane Brown and Len Myers.

10. Kimmie Schroeder, Michael Nash and Ashley Sanker.

APRIL 2014

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COMMUNITY CONNECTION

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familiar faces The 12th annual Dining for Diabetes dinner was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pierce City on Jan. 18.

1. Angela and Nate Burbridge.

2. Chris and Patti Weber.

3. Eugene and Marilyn Roetto .

4. Gary and Kristie Preddy.

5. James and Patti Eskildsen and Shari Rhea.

6. Lori and Jeff Coldwell.

7. Mary and Raymond McMeley.

8. Mary Kay and Ralph Scott.

9. Nick and Tammy Dunaway.

10. Rex Kay and Teresa Bouchard.

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APRIL 2014

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

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familiar faces The Monett Chamber of Commerce annual meeting was held at Scott Regional Technology Center on March 4.

1. Dane and Cindy Dale. 2. Diane and Dale Kunkel. 3. John and Agnes Bruner. 4. Jason and Amber Sunderman.

5. Laura Stupperich and Kris Johnson. 6. John and Tina Felder. 7. Steve and Rhonda Sperandio. 8. Ana Garcia and Adriana Salas. 9. Amanda and Chris Lee. 10. Gary and Susie Gasser. 11. Karen and Scott Smith. 12. Tiffany Barnes and Leslie Sharp.

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 79

“I am the resurrection and the life!”

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

CONNECTION EVENTS

may

By Melonie Roberts

JOIN US for a Community Sunrise Service Sunday, April 20 • 7 a.m

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1600 N. Central, Monett • 417-235-7444 Easter Services, 9:15 a.m. & 11:15 a.m.

El Mesias • 812 E. Broadway, Monett • Easter Services, 12:30 p.m. www.1stumcmonett.com

Get a STRAIGHTER,

WHITER SMILE

in just 6 months with cosmetic braces!

The Stella Senior Citizens Center and the Aurora Senior Citizens Center hold weekly dances. The Stella dance is held every Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. with music by the McDonald Playboys and Frosty Garland and the RoadHogs on alternate Fridays. The Aurora dance is held every Saturday of the month from 7 to 10 p.m. featuring the Funtimers Band.

Pierce City Senior Center offers free bridge classes at 2 p.m. each Monday and quilting at 1 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of watch month.

Central Crossing Senior Center offers line dancing classes from 9 to 10:30 a.m on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; Zumba from 8:15 to 8:45 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursdays; Mahjong from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday and Wednesdays; bridge from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Thursdays; quilting for charity from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m on Wednesdays and Thursdays; dominoes from 12:30 t0 3 p.m. on Mondays and bingo from 12:30 to 3 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month.

May 2

Call today for your FREE consultation!

Crane Family Dentistry

First Friday Coffee at Forever Yours Embroidery 8-8:45 a.m. 608 Main.

If you have an event you would like featured in our monthly events listing, please email the event information to Melonie Roberts at reporter@monett-times.com.

204 North Commerce Crane, Missouri 65633

417-723-1723

www.cranefamilydentistry.com 80 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE

APRIL 2014

Where quality is the difference.

DADS, HUSBANDS, CHILDREN:

May 3 The Miller Lions Club will host its first Saturday Fish Fry from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lions Club Building, located on Main Street in Miller.

This is your reminder...

DON’T FORGET MOTHER’S DAY

May 11

A dance will be held at the Cassville Senior Citizens center at 1111 Fair St. from 7 to 10 p.m. The dance features the Roaring River Sounds Band. There is a $4 cover charge.

Dogwood Car & Truck Festival: Enjoy the beautiful sites of Cassville’s historic downtown square in the spring! An informal competition and display of over a hundred vehicles of various types -- fun for the entire family! Open to the public, free admission, live music and concessions.

CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE

May 5 Monett Senior Center will host a dance from 7 to 10 p.m. at the center.

eown Hom

lth

ial

erc

Life

The Southern Beekeepers of Missouri will meet at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Monett. Anyone interested in bees is welcome to attend.

For more information, call Leon Riggs at 417-235-5053 or Kevin Young at 417847-5464.

mm

May 20

Co

Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce 4-man scramble golf tournament. To register, call the Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce at 847-2814.

Hea

May 16

to Au

Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host its regular monthly dance at 7 p.m. featuring Frosty and the RoadHogs.

The event will be held at the Seligman Chamber Event Center. For more information, call the Seligman Chamber of Commerce at 417-662-3612.

ers

May 15

Willis Insurance, Inc.

Keeping your lines safe since 1887.

100 W. 7th Street, Cassville

417-847-3300 | 800-556-2393 www.willisinsured.com

APRIL 2014

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 81

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APRIL 2014

parting shot

By Jeff Terry

“If you don’t know history, then you don’t know anything.

You are a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree.”

MICHAEL CRICHTON APRIL 2014

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APRIL 2014