December Connection 2019

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DECEMBER 2019

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2 | December 2019

509 Dairy Street, Monett, Mo. 65708

Features 10 | WONDERLAND TREE FARM An enchanted forest of Christmas trees in Pea Ridge, Ark., awaits exploration by families near and far

DEC. 7

‘Feliz Navidog’ find out more on page 14

15 | SHOP LOCAL

Support commerce in southwest Missouri by persuing the holiday offerings in featured shops of Cassville and Monett

27 | BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER!

Some gifts are priceless.

Locals recall the Christmas gifts that sparked their imaginations and touched their hearts

35 | Column:

ALTERNATIVE GIFT FAIR

Find gifts that keep giving at this special Monett gift fair on Dec. 14.

42 | SAY HELLO TO “THE MORNING DRIVE-IN SHOW”

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D E C E M B E R 2019 4 | December 2019

Photo courtesy of free dove Photography For more information or to follow events on the Wonderland Tree Farm, people may like the Facebook page Wonderland Christmas Tree Farm or the website www.wonderlandtreefarm.com.

A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SOUTHWEST MISSOURIANS

GENERAL MANAGER Lisa Craft monettcommunity@gmail.com EDITOR Kyle Troutman editor@cassville-democrat.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES James Craig Marion Chrysler CONTRIBUTORS Murray Bishoff Meagan Ruffing Lisa Ramirez Darlene Wierman Melonie Roberts Susan Funkhouser Pam Wormington Jared Lankford Jordan Privett Dionne Zebert Jane Severson Verna Fry Christa Stout Cheryl Williams Sierra Gunter Jennifer Conner Annie Lisenby Smith PHOTOGRAPHERS Chuck Nickle Jamie Brownlee Amy Sampson

aurora____________________________ Jeramie Grosenbacher, CFP®

DISTRIBUTION Greg Gilliam Kevin Funcannon TO ADVERTISE 417-847-2610 - Cassville 417-235-3135 - Monett Send email inquiries to connection@monett-times.com Mailing address: P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708 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.

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Connection Magazine | 5

staff editorial

Our sense of community shines

W

hen you were a child did you ever stare at the Christmas tree lights with your eyes crossed so they would glare with a halo, and they would all seem to blend together like one big huge diamond full of colorful halos?

Okay, maybe it was just me, but the Christmas tree lights always mystified me to the point that I seemed to always want to find ways to make them multiply, and doing the cross-eyed thing would, in my mind, make them multiply.

Of course, then I would hear my mother’s voice in my head telling me that if I do that too long my eyes would freeze like that. Little did I know, at that age, that was a myth.

There is nothing more beautiful to me than the lights at Christmas time. I don’t prefer color lights over white or vise versa, because I believe they both serve a purpose, so at my house I have both. I like the color on the tree, and I use some white lights in decorating.

I remember as a child my parents driving around town, which was an annual family event to view all of the decorated houses and the lights. I think we would hear almost as many “oohs and ah’s” about the lights as we would on the fourth of July during the fireworks show. One of the big attractions in Monett was driving down Fifth Street and seeing the home of Floyd and Dee Stewart. It was always such a treat to see the lights all over their home, even on the chimney making sure to light the way for Santa Claus. The carolers, the reindeer and their sleigh, and usually there was a new addition to the light collection every year. The Stewarts were just one of those homes that had that wonderful Christmas feel on the outside and on the inside, always welcoming those at their front door. Good memories.

The memories were wonderful, warm and comforting, but we now have very awesome new traditions and exciting

Christmas light displays and events for our children to enjoy. If you have not been, everyone needs to go to the Monett Chamber of Commerce Festival of Lights at the Monett South Park. I personally believe that it is one of the most fascinating, beautiful light displays in the area. I think you would have to go as far as Silver Dollar City to beat it. And you can’t beat the cost—it’s free. But out of the goodness of your heart a donation can be made at the end of the awesome tour. In all honesty, I really feel that you will be blessed by driving through the park and experiencing the wonderment the displays has to offer. Each display is donated and sponsored by a local business, foundation or resident. And the chamber has purchased displays over the years with donations raised from this event.

Something else we have all enjoyed for many years are all of the local parades. Now that is a tradition for your children that should not be missed. For most of the areas, it is the longest annual parade featuring floats, bands, horses, candy, royalty, Christmas sights and, of coarse, the main royalty of all, Santa Claus.

Church candlelight services during this time are very special to so many celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

This is the time of the year where we can take time to humble ourselves and thank God that he gave His Son as a babe in a manger on a bed of hay. The birth of Jesus is described in the Bible in the gospels of Luke and in Matthew.

I believe it is a good tradition to read this to your children directly from the Bible.

There is so much to do this month, so much to see and so much to celebrate. We all wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, and may God give peace to you and to yours, and also peace and hope for our world.

Lisa Craft

General Manager, Connection Magazine

6 | December 2019

Lisa Craft is General Manager of Connection Magazine, The Monett Times and Cassville Democrat.

She can be reached at monettcommunity@gmail.com or connection@monett-times.com

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DECEMBER 2019

46 | Column: BATTLING LONELINESS

Reaching out to community lends to the end of that old lonesome feeling

53 | INTERVIEW WITH SANTA CLAUS Naughty or nice, we won’t ask twice: Santa, how’ve you been?

55 | COWBOY SANTA

Tony Pryor rides the range in his “Redneck Sled” spreading holiday joy

C

Community hristmaS

LOCAL SHOPS HOLIDAY SALES

FAMILY TRIP

VISIT THE TREE FARM

GIFT FAIR

GIFTS THAT GIVE

A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SOUTHWEST MISSOURIANS

ON THE COVER

Surely these sweet faces made the nice list this year. Wonderland Tree Farm is a natural beautiful backdrop for instant memories.

Photo courtesy of free dove Photography.

CONTENTS 26 Cutest Kid

32 Recipes: Holiday flavor 39 Healthy Connection: Fatty Acids

45 Community Calendar 50 Cutest Pet

51 Rescued, My Favorite Breed 57 Parenting Column: Holiday dos and don’ts 60 Familiar Faces 66 Parting Shot

Have an idea for a story you would like to see in Connection Magazine?

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8 | December 2019

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Connection Magazine | 9

Photos courtesy of free dove Photography Nothing is more picturesque at Christmas time than the face of a small child looking at a Christmas tree.

This smiling face is the grandson of Jill and Martin Babb.

10 | December 2019

‘ The most wonderful time of the year.’

Wonderland Tree Farm aims to create family traditions, memories

F

or a number of people, Christmas traditions begin with loading the family up, driving to a tree farm, and picking out the perfect tree for the holiday season.

Cutting the tree and hauling it back home to be coverd in glass ornaments, tinsel and memories of Christmases past and present are the moments that last a lifetime in the heart.

Locally, there are few options to build or relive that childhood memory.

However, tucked into a 38-and-a-half-acre farm in Pea Ridge, Ark., is the magical Christmas scene of Wonderland Tree Farm.

Owners Martin and Jill Babb, started planting trees 10 years ago in preparation.

The tree farm has been dolling out Christmas memories for five years now, and is continuing to grow.

Jill Babb said the couple first bought the house and eight and a half acres in 2009.

“This is the fifth year that we have been open to the public, but the idea started well before then,” she said. “We used to have a smaller tree farm between Branson and Harrison, Ark., but we didn’t have enough property there to have a significant farm.”

Story by Jordan Privett

Connection Magazine | 11

When the couple moved to Pea Ridge, Ark., it was with the intention of expanding their tree farm.

“We bought the property with eight and a half acres and a house, but one day, the owner of 30 acres behind us, knocked on our door and asked if we would like to buy it,” she said. “Martin is a tree guy, he loves trees, and he was the captain of a ship so his whole career he would spend 28 days out at sea and 28 days at home.”

Now the Wonderland Tree Farm has grown into a large enough business that Martin was able to retire and work on the farm full time.

“We love having Christmas all year round,” Babb said. “You can’t get a better job than what we have. Christmas is such a fun and festive time of year, and our customers are always happy and excited to be here.”

Christmas trees bring back so many emotions in people, and the Babbs are there able to experience it along with them.

“We have people come to tears at the farm,” Babb said. “They are reliving childhood memories, and they thank us for it.”

12 | December 2019

Jill and Martin Babb, owners of Wonderland Tree Farm in Pea Ridge, Ark.

“We love having Christmas all year round.

You can’t get a better job than what we have.

Christmas is such a fun and festive time of year, and our customers are always happy and excited to be here.”

- Jill Babb of Wonderland Tree Farm

The Christmas season does only last so long, so the Wonderland Tree Farm mixes up the foliage throughout the year.

“We do sunflowers and things like that so that people can come to the farm year round,” Babb said. “We enjoy seeing people here and talking to them about why the experience is so special to them.”

People tell stories about the traditions they grew up with, or the ones they are trying to build fresh for their families.

“We aren’t just selling Christmas trees, we are selling memories,” she said.

“It is such a family event to go out and pick the tree, and children love to be a part of the process.”

Many tree farms won’t allow the customers to go out and cut the tree themselves, but Wonderland Tree Farm offers all the tools necessary to do the job themselves.

“We can do it for them if they like, but we aim to offer the memory that is ideal to each family,” she said. “When the family is more involved in the process, it is more than just getting a tree.”

The Babbs have such a drive to create an emotional tie with the Christmas tree experience.

“I think fresh trees have gotten a bum rap over the years because by the time they get to the stores they are dry and don’t look as good,” Babb said. “When you come here, you get a tree and put it straight into water, that helps our trees

last so much longer too.”

When Martin Babb grew up, a fresh tree wasn’t part of his family’s Christmas traditions, but for Jill, it was a very important part of the holiday.

“When we first started with the Christmas trees, we would send them out to be set up in store fronts,” she said.

“But, I told Martin I wanted to open to the public. I have those memories of going with my dad to get the Christmas tree.”

Martin Babb said being gone for 28 days at time, he would worry a lot about what was happening back at home.

One of the popular props set up throughout the Wonderland Tree Farm in Pea Ridge, Ark.

Connection Magazine | 13

“You worry about your family, and now I am happy to be home,” he said. “It was interesting to go from working while being surrounded by the sea, to working and being surrounded by trees.”

The Babbs are family oriented people, and after raising four children and now having 16 grandchildren, it was important for them to be close to home.

“Some of our grandchildren dress up as elves during the season and work in the gift shop,” Jill Babb said. “It is a family business.”

Babb said it is a huge family event to just run the farm, but that means they are all together when it comes time to pick out trees for their homes.

“There will be some event on the farm this year that started after Thanksgiving,” she said. “The early bird weekend, for people who want to have their trees up for the Thanksgiving holiday, was Nov. 23 and 24. Then, we closed again until the traditional launch witch was Nov. 29.”

Babb said the tree farm generally closes when it gets dark outside.

“On December 4, from 1 to 4 p.m. we will have a Homeschool Day,” she said. “So parents can go to our website and download some packets with information, and the children can come and enjoy the farm.”

As Jill Babb said, finding the perfect Christmas tree is a family event, so on December 7 the farm will be open to people and pets. The event will be called ‘Feliz Navidog.’

“Generally the season’s peak is the beginning of December, but we will be here until the 22nd of December,” she said.

“Each week after Thanksgiving tapers off just a little bit, so the first two weeks after then is usually the busiest.”

Christmas isn’t just about the tree, and the Babbs added holiday events throughout the farm for people to enjoy.

“We have a great gift shop with a lot of stocking stuffers that are pretty popular,” she said. “Last year, we opened a wreath barn, where we make wreaths and flower arrangements from fresh greenery from the farm. And finally, the hayride that takes you through the beautiful trees.”

14 | December 2019

Speaking of beautiful trees, the Babbs realize the farm is a wonderful backdrop for family photos.

“The first weekend in October, we rent the farm out to professional photographers that people can schedule for mini sessions,” she said. “There are other props on the farm for people to use as well. Once the season is open, we leave all the props up and allow customers to take photos while they are here. The main difference is that it won’t be an exclusive session.”

The next couple of months after the season wraps up, the Babbs take some time to rest.

“You have to put the whole farm away,” she said. “But, very quickly we get ready to start planting trees again. It is a continual year-long job.”

A family making life-long memories cutting down their Christmas tree at Wonderland Tree Farm.

To make the tradition even more special, the Babbs have invited Santa to the Christmas tree farm on December 7 and 8, and during a visit children can drop a letter to Santa in the Santa mailbox, as long as there is a return address, Santa will reply. 

For more information or to follow events on the Wonderland Tree Farm, people may like the Facebook page Wonderland Christmas Tree Farm or the website www.wonderlandtreefarm.com.

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Connection Magazine | 15

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Connection Magazine | 19

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Connection Magazine | 21

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Connection Magazine | 23

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Connection Magazine | 25

cutest kid

Congrats Cal Cal Michael McNabb is the 8-month-old son of Ricky and Elisha McNabb of Washburn.

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 younger. The photos submitted will be used for the sole purpose of this contest.

26 | December 2019

Best Christmas present ever!

C

hristmas leaves memories like no other holiday.

Gifts light up a child’s face unlike any other experience. Over time, the charm of some gifts change, while others leave an indelible mark, whether they came out of a box or an experience.

We asked people what was their “Best Christmas present ever,” and got these responses: Brian Smith, pastor at the First United Methodist Church in Monett: Around age 8, Smith recalled getting a new wood sled with metal runners and a steering mechanism in front that could be worked with one’s feet.

“I got to use the new sled in my grandfather’s backyard on Christmas Day,” Smith recalled.

This perfectly normal gift was especially memorable for Smith, who lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, while his grandfather lived in Ames, Iowa, a vicinity that typically has winter weather.

“Even when we had snow in Albuquerque, it was rarely enough BRIAN SMITH snow to sled,” Smith said. “If you did get snow, you might land in a cactus.”

Cindy Frazier, supervisor of the Monett Branch of the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library: Frazier found her memory amusing, even to her. When she was age 6 or 7, she received an orange feather duster for a gift.

“I liked it because it was cool,” Frazier said. “I played with it—I didn’t actually clean with it.”

Her family, living on a dairy farm, had a knack for fanciful gifts. One year she recalled the kids received “cattle magnets” as stocking stuffers. For city kids who don’t know what those are, they were real magnets, generally in an oval shape, placed in a capsule. A farmer would give one to a cow to swallow as a way to capture a piece of metal that the cow had eaten. The metal would CINDY FRAIZER stick to the capsule and eventually pass through the digestive system. “[The magnets] were fun to play with,” Frazier recalled.

Clif and Dee Crockett, retired Methodist pastor and wife: The Crocketts shared their Christmas gift, not just between themselves—but twice. Their daughter, Abbey, was born on December 20 in 1980, making her a Christmas gift. Abbey got to be the Baby Jesus that year in the church where the Crocketts attended, while Clif commuted to Kansas City to finish his seminary work the CLIF AND DEE CROCKET following spring.

Story by Murray Bishoff

Connection Magazine | 27

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Their daughter Mandy had the Crocketts’ first granddaughter on Christmas Eve in 1997, when Clif was leading the congregation in Lamar.

“There’s nothing that quite speaks about the memory of Christmas like the KEN TERRY birth of a child,” Clif said.

Ken Terry, owner of The Gathering Place in Purdy: Ken Terry had a similar story to the Crocketts, His second of three sons, Landon, was born on Dec. 22. Like many newborns, Landon arrived with jaundice and had to stay in the hospital a bit longer.

On Christmas Day, mom Julie Terry and Landon came home together, making a memorable Christmas present for Ken and son, Spencer.

Lou Ellen Honeycutt, longtime Monett resident, LOU ELLEN mother of three and HONEYCUTT grandmother: For Lou Ellen Honeycutt, the gathering of a complete family has taken on a particularly special meaning.

“Once they were all off in college, it was rare when they could all come home.

When they did, that was really special,” she said.

Having two siblings herself, Honeycutt recalled fondly the times when she could get together with her family. Her husband, David, came from a family of 13 children.

“They never all got together at one time until his dad’s funeral,” Honeycutt said.

Some years, she noted, the families DENNIS CAMP

would split up on holifor the curtain. The childays, going to one side for dren would sit under the Thanksgiving and the othChristmas tree—I’d sit in er for Christmas, not matthe second row—and they tering which, as long as all got presents of an apple, they could see each other. an orange and candy. That “Then when the grandwas really special for us.” kids came, the families by Christa Stout, animal then were so scattered,” activist, Monett Historshe recalled. “To have the ical Society volunteer: grandkids get together, to Christa Stout’s favorite gift get acquainted and reacmemory took her back to quainted, that was really NORMA CLINTON Nuremberg, Germany, in special. The cousins would 1947, two and a half years squabble. Brad, my cynical after the end of World War son, would say ‘That’s the way it’s sup- II. She was 9, and her family was getting posed to be.’” by, but not as well as others.

Dennis Camp, lieutenant, Monett “I wanted ice skates with the fancy Police Department: Dennis Camp’s most white boots, like the other kids had,” vivid memory was a more recent expe- Stout said. “The skates I had were ones rience, when his father, you screwed onto your Paul Camp, gave him a shoes or boots, much like complete Hornady reloadroller skates. That year my ing kit, for reloading bulmom bought me a pair. lets into shells, something She got them big enough quite useful for a police ofthat at first I had to wear ficer or someone who has several pairs of socks with to be dealing with firearms them. As I got older, they for a living. fit just right, and I still “We built a bench tohave them. I take them out gether [to mount the kit],” every now and then to polCamp said. ish them.”

The experience of The neighborhood in working together has be- CHRISTA STOUT Nuremberg had a small come a precious memory pond. In the winter extra with Paul Camp’s passing water was added to freeze in 2014. into a skating area.

Norma Clinton, head of Barry-LawStout shared her enthusiasm with her rence Toastmasters: For Norma Clinton, children and grandchildren, teaching it was again an experience that became them all to skate. One of the grandchila gift. Growing up in Wayne County dren today plays hockey. in southeast Missouri, Clinton vividly Lenny Davis, ProMark Printing recalled her family didn’t have much re- owner: Lenny Davis had four sisters. sources to make a Christ“There was always ‘girl mas holiday. stuff’ hand-me-downs,” “My favorite time was he recalled. “I wanted guy going down the road to things. I loved the guns, the old Baptist church for the little plastic soldiers. the Christmas program,” Eventually I got little metal she recalled. “It was a poor trucks and things.” rural church—we didn’t At age 6, living in go there normally—and Missoula, Mont., Davis it was packed. They’d put went to his Grandma’s for on a reenactment of the Christmas and there he reChristmas story, and use ceived a great gift: a safari a bed sheet over a wire big game hunter air rifle LENNY DAVIS Connection Magazine | 29

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that shot pellets, a safari hat, a holster and a pistol.

“I still have a picture of me in that outfit on the front porch,” Davis said. “I loved getting guns when I was little. I had a stick horse that I could ride on. A friend gave me a set of miniature chaps to wear; I still have them. In the last few years, I’ve bought a bunch of old guns like the ones I had. I even bought a metal robo-horse that I drove to Texas to pick up.”

Yesinia Perez, SOMOS director for Drury University, Monett school YESINIA PEREZ board member: Yesi Perez vividly remembers her first Christmas in Monett.

It was 1994. She was 11 years old, and had recently arrived with her family from Mexico.

“We were all very homesick for the songs, the traditions, the foods that we had for Christmas back in Mexico,” she recalled. “We were living in a small mobile home with no curtains. We didn’t have any Christmas presents. I told my two brothers and sister that Santa Claus didn’t know where we were. We didn’t know anybody, and we didn’t speak any English.

“On Christmas morning, it was snowing. There was a knock at the door. The sun was out. I looked out, and I saw smiling people with wrapped presents, a family with children. I recognized one of the girls who was in my fifth-grade class.

We let them in. I don’t know what they said, but we heard ‘Merry Christmas.’ We accepted the presents, and they left.”

All her life, Perez said, she had wanted a Barbie doll, not the “plasticky, cheap” kind that she had always had, but “a real one—with pretty hair and legs that bent.”

Perez doesn’t remember what her siblings got for presents that day, but when she opened her gift, there it was, “a beautiful Barbie doll that I still have to this day,” she recalled.

“I don’t remember the name of the girl in my class who came that day, but she definitely made a memorable Christmas for all of us.” 

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Connection Magazine | 31

holiday recipes

Amazingly Good Eggnog

Cake Pops

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

4 cups milk 5 whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 12 egg yolks 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 1/2 cups light rum 4 cups light cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

DIRECTIONS Combine milk, cloves, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and cinnamon in a saucepan, and heat over lowest setting for 5 minutes. Slowly bring milk mixture to a boil.

In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Whisk together until fluffy. Whisk hot milk mixture slowly into the eggs.

Pour mixture into saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 minutes, or until thick. Do not allow mixture to boil. Strain to remove cloves, and let cool for about an hour.

Stir in rum, cream, 2 teaspoon vanilla, and nutmeg. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

32 | December 2019

1 (12 ounce) package colored candy coating melts, divided 24 plain doughnut holes 24 lollipop sticks 1 tablespoon multicolored candy sprinkles (jimmies), as desired

DIRECTIONS Place about 1/4 cup of candy melts into a small microwave-safe bowl, and melt in the microwave at 40 percent power for 30 seconds; stir the candy coating, and continue to heat for 30 second-intervals until the coating is just warm and completely melted.

Poke a hole halfway through a doughnut hole with a lollipop stick, then dip the end of the stick into the melted coating and reinsert into the hole. This holds the doughnut hole firmly on the stick. Stick the doughnut pop upright into a block of plastic foam, and set into refrigerator for 1 hour to firm up.

When pops are firmly attached to their sticks, melt the remaining candy coating dots in a microwave-safe bowl on 40 percent power for 1 minute; stir, and melt for 30-second intervals until the coating is warm and smoothly melted. Dip the doughnut hole into the coating, covering it completely. Hold the dipped pop over a bowl, and sprinkle with colored candy sprinkles. Return the decorated pops to the plastic foam block to set.

Cream Cheese Penguins

Soft Christmas Cookies

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

18 jumbo black olives, pitted 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 18 small black olives 1 carrot

DIRECTIONS Cut a slit from top to bottom, lengthwise, into the side of each jumbo olive. Carefully insert about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese into each olive. Slice the carrot into eighteen 1/4 inch thick rounds; cut a small notch out of each carrot slice to form feet. Save the cut out piece and press into center of small olive to form the beak. If necessary cut a small slit into each olive before inserting the beak.

Set a big olive, large hole side down, onto a carrot slice. Then, set a small olive onto the large olive, adjusting so that the beak, cream cheese chest and notch in the carrot slice line up. Secure with a toothpick.

3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup margarine, softened 1 1/2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together, set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Gradually blend in the sifted ingredients until fully absorbed.

Cover dough, and chill for 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets. On a clean floured surface, roll out small portions of chilled dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.

Bake 6 to 8 minutes in the preheated oven, or until edges are barely brown.

Remove from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks.

Connection Magazine | 33

Spinach Cheese Ball

Christmas Stars

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1 (4 ounce) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped 1 (.4 ounce) packet dry vegetable soup mix 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 cup finely shredded Cheddar cheese 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, mix together the spinach, cream cheese, water chestnuts, vegetable soup mix, mayonnaise and Cheddar cheese until well blended.

Form into a ball, and roll in chopped walnuts.

If the mixture is too soft to form a ball, refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.

Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight to blend the flavors before serving with your favorite crackers.

3/4 cup butter, softened 1 cup white sugar 2 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons strawberry jam 1/4 cup green decorator sugar (optional)

DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Gradually add eggs and vanilla. Mix well. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir flour mixture into the butter mixture until well blended. Divide dough in half and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate dough for three hours.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two cookie sheets or line them with parchment paper.

On a floured surface, roll out half of the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut dough into star shapes using a 3- to 4-inch star cookie cutter. Using a 1- to 2-inch star cookie cutter, cut a star into the center of half of the big stars. Place the full stars on one cookie sheet and the “tops�--the cookies with the center cutouts--on another. Sprinkle colored sugar on the star tops, if desired.

Bake in preheated oven until edges are golden brown, 6 to 8 minutes. Allow cookies to cool completely. (You can re-roll the mini stars cut out of the centers, or bake them separately for about 5 minutes.) Repeat with remaining cookie dough.

After cookies cool completely, spread 1 teaspoon of preserves in the center of each full star cookie. Place a cut-out cookie on top of the layer of preserves. Pack cookies between waxed paper in a covered tin to preserve freshness.

34 | December 2019

COLUMN

Alternative Gift Fair Photos by Murray Bishoff

BY ANNIE LISENBY SMITH

Live music was part of the attraction at the annual Alternative Gift Fair in 2017. Matt Lee, left, provided songs, accompanied by Andy Goodson. A quartet and a pianist also supplied seasonal songs for the occasion.

2019

Participating Organizations: BARRY COUNTY YOUTH CAMP BARRY LAWRENCE COUNTY DEVELOPMENT CENTER CHILDREN’S CENTER CROSSLINES

HOSPICE COMPASSUS IMAGEN LAFAYETTE HOUSE MONETT/PURDY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY MO SWITCH TRI COUNTY PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER YMCA STRONG KIDS WILDCAT GLADES FRIEND GROUP

Unique gift fair continues season of giving in Monett

W

hen shopping for Christmas gifts, you might have a friend or family member who is impossible to buy for. In my family, I am that person. I feel bad every year my sweet mother-in-law asks for my Christmas wish list. There’s not much I want or need, so I end up filling it with things for my kids or a short list of very practical items. A perfect solution for people like this and anyone else on your list is the Monett Alternative Gift Fair.

The Monett Alternative Gift Fair will be on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Monett Historical Society Event Center. Doors are conveniently open prior to and following the Monett Christmas Parade.

Everyone is invited to stop by, shop, and enjoy the festive music, hot apple cider and homemade cookies.

Connection Magazine | 35

In case this is sounding familiar — it probably is! This is the 7th Annual Alternative Gift Fair. In 2012, Elizabeth Lucore saw a way to help our community and spread Christmas joy. Being new to Monett, she wanted to share this holiday shopping event she’d seen in other cities. She explained, “The benefits are two-fold; it’s a super easy way to finish up your holiday shopping while supporting the good work of our local nonprofits. You get to learn something about the neat organizations we have right here in southwest Missouri. The alternative gift fair is truly a different way to shop for Christmas.” She asked friends to help, and the idea took off. Regular volunteers Emelie Lynn and Sheila Harris organize the event, inviting organizations to participate, arranging advertising, and delegating tasks to an even larger group of volunteers who provide treats for shoppers. “We are pretty picky about having homemade cookies,” laughs Lucore. “It’s worth it!”

The Alternative Gift Fair provides an opportunity for shoppers to give gifts that support local non-profit organizations in the name of their friend or family. In exchange for a donation to the non-profit of your choice, you will receive a small card or token with a description of the non-profit organization to present to your loved one.

36 | December 2019

Service organizations located near in the Monett area participated in the Alternative Gift Fair in 2016. Janet Montgomery, from Just Mercy, the organization based in rural Newton County that provides an outreach in Haiti, offered spoons made by Haitians and other products, which Karen Wood of the Show-Me Harmony Choir picked up as part of her holiday shopping.

The purpose of the Alternative Gift Fair is to provide an opportunity to give a gift for yourself or in someone else’s name to support the work of a charitable organization serving the Monett area. Ken Dudzik, left, discussed community outreach with representatives from the Pierce City Arts Council, Kathleen Farrelly, center, and Sabina Chapman.

Music shared in the spirit of holiday giving for the fourth annual Alternative Gift Fair, held at the Monett Area YMCA in 2016. Franklin and Elizabeth Lucore provided a piano four-hands version of Christmas music to set the tone for the event.

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Connection Magazine | 37

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Event organizer, Lucore elaborated, “Most of us have what we need, so doing your Christmas shopping by donating locally is a fun opportunity to give to others at Christmas without buying more stuff.”

When planning the event, Lucore and her team are intentional about seeking out non-profit organizations that maintain a 501 (C) (3) status and that are directly serving or connected with the Barry and Lawrence county communities. Effort is put into involving a variety of organizations including those supporting the basic needs such as food and healthcare, older adults, children, the environment, and veterans. There is really something for everyone on your list!

No gift is too small, according to Lucore. The Alternative Gift Fair is a wonderful opportunity to share the joy of giving with children who are looking for ways to share their allowance or tooth fairy money with those in need.

On average, Lucore estimates they raise $6,000 to $10,000 each year. The event is ecumenical and not affiliated with one single church, but the Christian morals shared by the community are a driving force. “Raising money for local non-profits is definitely one of our goals, but changing the way we all think about gift giving and nurturing generosity in the next generation is equally important,” she adds. “This is definitely a labor of love.”

In the spirit of the holidays, live music is a constant feature at the gift fair. This year, musical entertainment will be provided by the local band, Robin’s Hood. Lucore invites the community to check out the fair before or after the Christmas Parade down Broadway Street, where they can warm up as they enjoy the festive environment. “I have been amazed by the generosity of Monett in so many ways,” says Lucore. “We are excited to see everyone at the gift fair this year!”

HEALTHY CONNECTION

BY EMILY SEIDEMAN Emily Seideman is a Cox College dietetic intern who is currently working on her master’s degree in Nutrition Diagnostics. She is from the small town of Campbellsport, Wisconsin.

Emily is passionate about nutrigenomics and nutrition throughout the life cycle. After becoming a registered dietitian, she plans to focus in neonatal nutrition.

The American Fatty Acid Profile Since the 1970s, people around the world have been told they should not eat fat. Many professionals still stick to this hypothesis today. As research in nutrition science has advanced, researchers and nutrition professionals have revealed dietary fat may not be the main cause of cardiovascular disease. In fact, the standard diet should include around 30 percent of calories from fat for the average human. Fats are not all bad, as fats have many benefits in the body, when eaten in moderation of course.

THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT CLASSES OF FATS BASED ON THEIR MOLECULAR STRUCTURE:

, , , , ,

Saturated Fat Trans Fat Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fat (alpha linolenic acid) Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fat (linoleic acid) Monounsaturated Fat

You may recognize some of these terms from this list. You may even point out to yourself that you have heard some bad things about trans fat and you are correct. Trans fat is very damaging to the body and can set off many harmful chemical reactions. Trans fat is found in foods such as doughnuts, frozen pizza, and most fried foods. These types of fats are not needed in the body; therefore the associated foods should be eaten on special occasions or not at all. According to the research, everybody and every body needs saturated fat, omega-3 polyunsaturated fat, omega-6 polyunsaturated fat, and monounsaturated fat in their diet. All of these types of fats are needed to maintain and repair the body. The two fats I will focus on are omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fats. Ideally, a human should be eating equal parts omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, therefore a rough 1:1 ratio. The average American eats an omega-6: omega-3 ratio of 20:1; this is a sign of an unbalanced diet.

Connection Magazine | 39

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Antioxidants in fruits and vegetables are required for these omega-3 chemical pathways to protect the body from inflammation as well.

Omega-6 fatty acids are found in foods like poultry, packaged baked goods, and anything else cooked with, baked with, or that utilizes a vegetable seed oil (canola, corn, soy, peanut, grape, sunflower oils, etc.). Most of our omega-6 consumption comes from the vegetable seed oils in the diet. Why should I care about how much omega-6 fat I eat? The answer is inflammation. Omega-6 fatty acids can be very damaging and inflammatory to the human body when omega-3 fatty acids are not there to balance them out.

With this fatty acid imbalance, the body has a much higher chance of developing a chronic disease like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, autoimmune diseases, and some types of cancers.

Omega-3s, on the other hand, are anti-inflammatory meaning that they do not negatively contribute to developing chronic diseases. These fatty acids actually help reduce inflammation in the body, which equals a happy and healthy human.

Omega-3 fats are found in foods like chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, and seafood like salmon, sardines, or any other fatty-type fish. It is also important to note that antioxidants in fruits and vegetables are required for these omega-3 chemical pathways to protect the body from inflammation as well.

Most Americans do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids in relation to omega-6 fatty acids. The point of this article is not for the reader to create an omega-6 fatty acid aversion, but rather to promote an omega-6: omega-3 fatty acid ratio closer to 3:1 as is seen in the Mediterranean diet. Eating a balanced meal, from land to sea, may be a key to eliminating disease.

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Connection Magazine | 41

Here are the stars of the Morning Drive-In Show, Darrin Indovina, radio personality and sales representative and Bill Lewis, co-owner of Talon Broadcasting and also radio personality.

42 | December 2019

The audience controls the music during the two hour show by sending requests to the pair by phone calls or texts to Darrin on his phone.

The Morning Drive-In Show with

Bill and Darrin You might hear Bill Lewis in the mornings on your way to work or you might hear Darrin Indovina during the Morning Drive-In Show on 95.9 FM KKBL.

I

f you are hard to wake up in the mornings, and you need that sudden jolt to get you started, set your radio alarms to 95.9 FM at 7 a.m. to the Morning Drive-In Radio Show with Bill and Darrin. You will not be greeted with a regular radio show. Your eyes will be opened with a variety of sounds, including alarm clocks, the crow of a rooster, three different intros to a morning song, along with greetings from Bill Lewis and the deep southern drawl of Darrin Indovina.

And yes, you are then wide awake and ready for your first cup of coffee. Or, if you are already on the road headed to your job, you will no doubt arrive with a spring in your step because of the uplifting, positive sounds coming from the songs and voices of Bill and Darrin.

The Morning Drive-In Show is two

Story by Lisa Craft

months old and offers two hours full of song requests, interviews, some news, a little bit of ‘shooting from the hip’ conversations with Bill and Darrin, and, as Darrin expressed, “Just spreading da love.”

Talon Media includes four broadcasting stations, KRMO AM 990, KSWM 940, KKBL 95.9 and the only Spanish station in southwest Missouri, KQMO 97.7 FM. They broadcast in Barry, Lawrence, Newton and Jasper counties.

“Bill and I get the news and local information out there and then we talk about different topics,” said Darrin. “We can be humorous and informal and we can also be straight forward and formal with our audience. We give out local event information including chamber events, church happenings and concerts,” he continued. “It is our job to give the information to the public.”

According to Bill, the whole point is to stay local.

“A lot of the shows are syndicated and talk about things that are happening all over,” said Bill. “We want to focus on the local area, things that are happening right here. We made this a show where the music is requested by the listener, and we are totally focusing on our local audience,” Bill continued. “We want the audience to tell us what they want.”

Darrin began at the station in the middle of August.

“This is the first time I have ever worked for any type of broadcast station,” he said. “I was hired as a talk show disc jockey, and I am lovin’ it. I have never had any training. We can talk a little about a lot of things and just shoot from the hip,” he stated. “I don’t mind being in the public eye and I definitely don’t mind talking.”

Connection Magazine | 43

According to the morning show duo, one of the most entertaining things to do is the interviews. Pictured below with Darrin Indovina is one of the interviewees, Josh Kennedy, member of the band, The Black Moods.

Darrin comes from New Orleans, Louisiana, and was an electrician by trade. His wife had worked for a bank that supported software by Jack Henry and Associates. When Hurricane Katrina hit the New Orleans area in August 2005, his wife was able to obtain employment at Jack Henry and Associates in Monett, and being an electrician, Darrin figured he could work anywhere. They both agreed they wanted to be away from the water, so they moved to Monett.

“I also had a background in Cajun food so I eventually opened a restaurant in Monett,” said Darrin. “I started small with The Bayou Lunchbox just in case it didn’t catch on. I mean I didn’t know how familiar the Monett area was with Louisiana Cajun food and later we moved and just became The Bayou.”

Indovina went on to say that the restaurant was in business for 12 years, and he loved serving everyone in the Monett community, but it was time to do something different.

“It was time to close,” said Darrin. “I was exhausted.”

Bill and Darrin had become friends through the time that Darrin had the restaurant and would carry on long conversations bouncing ideas off each other all of the time.

“Bill and I hit it off because of his background in music and stuff like that,” said Darrin, “And Bill has a good demeanor. He listens and has a lot of knowledgeable background. So we just talked about things and it would always turn into a long conversation.”

44 | December 2019

Darrin said it took him two years to talk Bill into doing the Midnight Metal Madness Show because they had not done anything that extreme.

“So I said let’s put it on at midnight and see what it does,” said Darrin. “It has made eight years of hard rock heavy metal music on this station at midnight.

Then he asked me to do a classic rock show so we did a Saturday morning only show with Josh Golubski and Jessie James for about five years of the eight, and I recorded all of these shows on my day off. It’s definitely gas pedal music, that’s why I like it!”

Darrin went on to explain that he and Bill had talked about the morning show for a while. Bill wanted to do it, but he wanted to give the audience more than just music, so they decided to add local information and periodic interviews.

“We have guests on the show that just want to join in,” said Darrin. “They want to spread the love as well and give information to those that are listening.”

“We are two months old, and we have interviewed Josh Kennedy with the The Black Moods. We have interviewed Steve Warner, Eddie Valen and other local entertainers, and also hosted informational interviewees, like Russ Moreland, the Monett School superintendent. We plan to have the Aurora School superintendent on our show soon.”

According to Darrin, “Bill and I are like ‘Donnie and Marie,’ a little bit country/western, and a little bit rock ’n roll.”

Bill knows the country western music

because he used to play in a country and western band as a drummer, and Darrin played one decade behind him where everything got a little bit more louder and faster.

“So it is very good because Bill knows a lot,” said Darrin, “and I know a lot on both subjects and bands. He tells me who writes songs and he knows a lot of artists.”

“It’s interesting when people call from Purdy, Pierce City, and other local communities, wanting to share what is going on in their hometowns,” said Bill. “Darrin is good at getting information from people; he just pulls the information from them. That is his personality. So many people know Darrin, they don’t have a problem calling or texting him. What is neat about Darrin, is he has a love for New Orleans but his love for Monett is equal to that. Everyone knows that Darrin loves the people of Monett.” 

December 2019

DEC. 2

The Monthly Dance at the Monett Park Casino will be held with Timberline Country Band playing from 7 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $5.00. Please bring a snack to share. Everyone is welcome.

Notary Services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Breakfast Bar will begin at 8 a.m. at the Cassville Senior Center.

DEC. 3

A computer class will be held at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob at 12:45 p.m.

DEC. 9

Community Calendar DEC. 19

Notary services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monthly Birthday Lunch at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 11:15 a.m.

DEC. 10

Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center beginning at 9 a.m.

Stamping Up—a card making class, will be held at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell at 10 a.m.

DEC. 13

Christmas dinner will be served at the Cassville Senior Center beginning at 11 a.m.

DEC.14

Christmas lunch will be served at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 11:15 a.m.

Music entertainment at the Monett Senior Center by Shell Knob Strings beginning at 11 a.m.

DEC. 20

DEC. 4

Wheaton’s Christmas Parade will begin at 6 p.m. There will be pictures with Santa at the community building from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. along with candy sacks for the children.

Christmas Holiday lunch and Photo Booth will be held at the Monett Senior Center at 11 a.m. For more information call 417-235-3285.

Blood pressure checks will be taken at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612.

Medicare Open Enrollment counseling by appointment at the Monett Senior Center. Call 417-235-3285.

DEC. 5

Benefit Counseling by appointment at the Cassville Senior Center. Call 8474510.

Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center beginning at 9 a.m.

DEC. 6

First Friday Coffee will be held at Freedom Bank from 8-8:45 a.m. This event is sponsored by the Cassville Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 847-2814.

Star/Tree lighting event will be held at the Central Crossing Senior Center beginning at 5:30 p.m.

DEC. 7

Cassville’s annual Christmas Parade on Main Street will begin at 6 p.m.

Christmas Tour of Homes in Shell Knob will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call Twilia at the Shell Knob Chamber office at 417-858-3300.

The Christmas Parade in Exeter will start at 1:30 p.m.

Purdy’s Christmas Parade will start at 11 a.m. The Purdy Parade is sponsored by The Gathering Place in Purdy.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For info, call 417-662-3612.

DEC. 16

Notary services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Breakfast Bar will begin at 8 a.m. at the Cassville Senior Center.

Nell’s Nails begins at 9 a.m. Call 417858-6952 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob.

DEC. 17

Grace Health Services at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob.

Call for an appointment 417-858-6952.

DEC. 18

The Aurora Quilt Guild meets at 10 a.m. in the Aurora Community Center, 40 W. Church St. For more information call 417-498-6789.

Nell’s Nails begins at 9 a.m. Call 8474510 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome at the Cassville Senior Center.

WIC at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob. Call 417-2114 for an appointment.

Grace Foot Care by appointment at Cassville Senior Center. Call 847-4510 for appointment.

Blood pressure checks will be taken at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob beginning at 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m.

DEC. 21

DEC. 23

Notary services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DEC. 24-26

Holiday Closing notice: The Central Crossing Senior Center and the Cassville Senior Center will be closed, and also on Dec. 31 and New Year’s Day.

DEC. 26

The Pierce City Senior Center Dance will hold its regular monthly dance.

DEC. 27

Birthday lunch at the Cassville Senior Center. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Nell’s Nails will be at the Monett Senior Center at 11 a.m.

DEC. 28

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417662-3612.

DEC. 30

Notary services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Connection Magazine | 45

COLUMN

BY ANNIE LISENBY SMITH

The first ever all-girls mini camp at Camp Barnabas was a success. Campers spent the weekend enjoying spa-themed activities, an 80’s dance party, a runway fashion and talent show and lots of karaoke. Keira Snodgrass started her weekend being escorted by two fun loving and excited volunteer counselors. Volunteers are needed in all areas of the operation.

Battling Loneliness Nearly half of all Americans feel lonely.

COMBAT THE FEELING OF LONELINESS BY REACHING OUT TO THE COMMUNITY 46 | December 2019

A

friend recently pointed out to me that houses are no longer built with large front porches. It used to be the norm that a porch was an extension of the family into the community. I remember seeing neighbors sitting on their porch every evening, waving to the kids riding their bikes down the street. As the porches got smaller so did the relationships of the neighbors, leading to a stronger sense of isolation amongst Americans.

Studies have shown that, even though technology provides access to mass forms of communication at our fingertips, people are feeling a deeper sense of loneliness. Nearly half of all Americans feel lonely. The people highest on the scale of loneliness were members of Generation Z (ages 18-22) and senior citizens who are retired.

Loneliness not only affects people’s mental health, but it has been shown to affect their physical condition nearly as much as being obese.

What is the solution? How does one battle loneliness?

The holidays especially bring forth memories of happy times with family.

But for those who can’t be with family, or those who have lost family members in the past year, the holidays can be a very difficult time. Some churches have recognized the grief felt during the holiday season and will have a Blue Christmas Service. Traditionally, held on the longest night of the year, this service is for those who have experienced grief in the year, such as a loss of a family member, loss of a job, separation or divorce, or those living with a terminal illness that has left a lot of questions about their future. Reaching out to friends and neighbors who have experienced this kind of loss can be a

The 100+ Women Who Care organization has donated $10,050 to the Cox Monett Hospital Auxiliary, part of $30,500 given back to the community in five grants awarded by the group.

blessing to them during the holidays.

Do you know someone like this? Try inviting them for a meal or a walk.

Even a hand-delivered Christmas card can provide a spark of joy.

If you are battling loneliness, there are many ways you can get involved in your community to make new friends and help those around you.

Churches or other religious organizations can provide opportunities to meet new people and make friends.

Churches offer many programs for social interaction and volunteer service projects. If you don’t drive, you can call and ask a church near you if they offer a van or bus service. Information on churches in your area can be found online or in your local paper.

It helps to find people with similar interests. Libraries offer events and activities for many different interests.

The YMCA has programs and group exercise classes. Here you can make

Members of the Tiffany Cardenas family and volunteers from the Monett/Purdy Habitat for Humanity chapter broke ground on a Habitat home in Monett in September 2018. friends and get healthy. Programs and meals are provided at senior centers.

If you have been active in the arts, or would like to learn more about them, seek out a community orchestra or theatre in your area. Even if you don’t play first chair violin or know Hamlet’s “To be or not to be” speech by heart, there are many ways you can

volunteer your time, meet others, and share the arts with your community.

A friend of mine recently took a computer class through the Scott Regional Technical Center community education classes in Monett. She made new friends and learned new skills.

Additional classes can be found at the Crowder College campuses.

Connection Magazine | 47

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Volunteering can be helpful for those feeling alone. Not only will you meet new people you’re working with, but you’ll get to help others too. Opportunities can be found through organizations like Habitat for Humanity or through local food banks, hospitals or animal shelters.

There are many great philanthropic organizations that are active throughout the Ozarks like the Lions Club, Kiwanis, and Rotary Club. The list of groups that are helping neighbors in the Ozarks could fill this entire magazine. Search online or ask at your local library or Chamber of Commerce to find opportunities that fit your skills and abilities.

Another way to battle loneliness is by taking a part-time job. During the holidays, some stores will hire additional employees to meet the needs of busy Christmas shoppers. Currently, the U.S. Census Bureau is hiring census workers in communities around the United States. It’s temporary work that often requires that you go and meet people in your neighborhood. What a great way to make a little extra money and new friends too.

No one needs to be alone. Our community is full of interesting, caring people. Go out there and find someone new to wish a happy Thanksgiving or merry Christmas to this year. Author Kurt Vonnegut said, “What should young people do with their lives today?

Many things, obviously. But the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured.” Whether young or old, we can all work together to battle loneliness and create a stronger community full of friendships and joy.

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Connection Magazine | 49

CUTEST PET

Jolene Jolene is a Welsh Pembroke Corgie owned by Taylor Casey of Monett

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 Cutest Pet contest.

Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible.

Remember to include your pet’s name, city of residence and your contact information.

Email your pet’s photo to:

connection@ monett-times.com

50 | December 2019

RESCUED, MY FAVORITE BREED

Homing around the Holidays If you are looking for a furry family member, please check out all the dogs and cats at Faithful Friends in Neosho, Mo. Here are a couple of them looking for their forever home:

I

can’t believe Christmas is almost here. And it is a great time for everyone, families getting together and celebrating this time of the year, gifts to be chosen and given, special meals to be prepared and eaten.

Thinking of Christmas, I remembered that last year I happened to play a very small part in the Christmas Eve adoption of a beautiful cat to a family who already had two but fell in love with this particular cat. We get adoption updates periodically from the family and it is absolutely heartwarming to learn the cat is doing great, has become part of the cat and human family and is thriving in his adoptive environment. A delightful Christmas gift for me!

I know there are many families considering getting a pet for a Christmas gift and I think that’s awesome, but I am convinced that adopting is the way to go. I know at Faithful Friends we have lots of dogs and cats waiting for their forever home.

“Hi, my name is Nymera. I’m big into climbing, so if you live by the mountains that would be a bonus. Just kidding, I’ll find adventure anywhere I go. Including your house! I love chasing my toy mice so you must have plenty of those for me. I’d love to find a home of my very own to hunt my mice and climb my mountains. Wanna come meet me??”

BY CHRISTA STOUT

These animals range from very young puppies and kittens to senior citizens. In my mind, each age group has some definite advantages, so I always urge potential pet parents to consider thoroughly what they expect from their future pet and to keep in mind that the adoption is for the life of the pet and that could be anywhere from 12 to 20 years or more. So, here are some questions adopters should ask themselves:

Have you ever wanted something so much that you let nothing stand in your way?

If so, then you and Hannah may be soul mates. Hannah is a 5-year-old beauty with a short, soft white coat with reddish spots; however, she can be an “escape artist.” She loves her people so deeply that she tries to search for them by jumping fences when she is left alone. It will take a patient, loving family to reassure her that she won’t be left alone . . . again, but, unfortunately, that isn’t the message she’s been given so far. Her heart is pure love—and that is her motivation—so, if you have time to spend with Hannah, she will show you all the love she has.

Do I want a puppy or kitten and have the joy of potty training him or her?

Do I want an energetic dog who would make a perfect running companion, or do I want a snuggling cat or dog who is the couch potato that is always at my side?

Connection Magazine | 51

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And let’s not forget the senior pets who may have lost their human parent and although senior in age, still have many years of active living and companionship as well as love to give their adoptive parents. Another consideration should be the available living space, and although pets are happy in any environment, some are more suited for an apartment while others may need the space of country living. Notice, I did not mention breed yet, because although some breeds are more energetic than others and may even need a job to keep them happy, to me the behavior of the individual pet and whether that works with the adopter’s life, is much more important than their ‘blood lines.

And one more thing, having a child grow up with a family pet is a wonderful thing to watch, it teaches a child compassion, love for the animal and responsibility. But these things don’t come by themselves, they must be taught by the parents and this takes time, both for the child and the pet.

So, please adopt but do so after lengthy consideration, making sure you, your home and your family are ready for the additional family member, and then enjoy the love a new pet will give you for many years.

A very Merry Christmas from all the adoptable pets to all of the readers!

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I couldn’t resist adding a picture of the latest set of puppies, seven of them! Aren’t they adorable?

Catching up with Santa Claus JOLLY OLD ELF HEADING INTO THE BUSIEST SEASON OF THE YEAR It is a busy time of year at the North Pole. The elves are working frantically to fill orders, the reindeer are taking training flights in preparation for their worldwide marathon, and Santa Claus is busy checking his list of the nice and not-so-nice children to whom he will be delivering his gifts this year. As the holiday season approaches, Santa is also making personal appearances, as well as sending out a bevy of helpers in his stead. We, at Connection Magazine, had the opportunity to catch up with Mr. Claus and he was gracious enough to grant us a quick interview.

← Interview with Santa → CM: You are pretty busy this time of

year. What do you still have to do between now and take-off on Christmas Eve night?

SC: Oversee reindeer trails and

check on how things are going with the elves in the workshop, just to name a few.

CM: How many elves do you have working for you?

SC: Lots. But I can’t give you exact numbers. It’s a union thing.

Ho, ho, ho.

CM: Do you have a favorite reindeer, and if so, which one?

SC: I have no favorites. They are all special in their own ways.

CM: How do you pack the toys for kids all over the world in one sleigh?

SC: Ho, ho, ho. Christmas magic.

CM: What is your favorite cookie?

SC: Christmas sugar cookies, deco-

CM: People wonder how you fly

CM: Do you ever wish for something

SC: It’s Christmas magic and my

rated all pretty. Yum, yum.

besides cookies and milk?

SC: I like chocolate milk every

once in awhile, as well as egg nog on a cold winter’s night— sometimes with something a little stronger in it to take off the cold winter chill.

CM: What is your favorite part about being Santa?

SC: Seeing the Christmas spirit

in the eyes of the children as they sit on my lap and tell me their Christmas wishes.

Sometimes, they will even tell me if they have been naughty or nice.

CM: Is there a bad side of being

Santa? Do you get bitten by dogs and such?

SC: No, no, no. I love pets and

always carry treats for them.

around the world in one night.

What is your secret? wonderful reindeer.

CM: Do you ever get tired?

SC: At about noon on Dec. 26, it

hits me that I have been up all night zooming here and there, but then I realize I get to do it all over again next year. Wow, I am so lucky.

CM: Where do you and Mrs. Claus

vacation? Do people recognize you without your red suit?

SC: Everyone goes to Disney.

Sometimes people will recognize me, but I am usually wandering on to something else when it hits them who they just might have seen.

CM: What made you want to be Santa in the first place?

SC: I love people, kids the most, so it was just a natural fit.

Story by Melonie Roberts

Connection Magazine | 53

Continuing the Legacy

CM: Do people leave you gifts, besides cookies?

SC: No. Ho, ho, ho. Just the elves, and Mrs. Claus, if I have been real good that year.

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CM: Are children as nice today as they used to be?

SC: No, but times have changed how

we live life these days. Santa tries to stay true to the old ways.

Giving is always best.

CM: Since most kids today are unaware

of the significance of a lump of coal, what do you give them if they are bad?

SC: No electronics. Something that makes kids use their brains to have fun.

CM: What do you say to children who

only want to receive gifts, and have no idea about what Christmas is really about?

SC: I talk to them a little, about giving and what the Lord gave for us. I also tell them how it feels to give to someone that big of a gift, without asking for something in return.

CM: Does being Santa sometimes make you sad?

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enough to those who deserve more, but just can’t seem to pull themselves up in the world. They seem to just live paycheck to paycheck, so to say.

CM: How do people know you are the

real Santa, and not just one of his workers?

SC: I am just one of his helpers,

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like all the rest of us with a red hat. No one gets to see the real Santa. He is in all our hearts and souls around the holidays.

CM: Is there anything you would like to add?

SC: Ho, ho, ho. I’m wishing a Merry Christmas to all, and a healthy and happy New Year.

G’ma Lou in Sarcoxie welcomed Cowboy Santa Tony Pryor with open arms during his visit last Christmas.

󰑙ee-Haw

Cowboy Santa Tony Pryor visits with Asa Moss, one of his older kids, during a Christmas visit.

Pryor typically gifts his “kids” with coffee mugs, tea towels and other useful items.

Cowboy Santa rides into town

Y

ippy ki-yay, Cowboy Santa rides again!

For the past 27 years, Cowboy Santa Tony Pryor has made an effort to visit the “older kids” of the community during the holiday season, bringing warm hugs, novelty gifts and laugthter to brighten their days.

“My grandma and grandpa made a big deal of Christmas,” Pryor said. “Grandma always made sure we had an extra big Christmas. When they died, I decided I wanted to keep a tradition going. Lynn

Story by Melonie Roberts

Thornton started having Christmas for the younger kids in the community. I decided to visit the “older kids,” the senior citizens who didn’t have family locally, or who are lonely during this time of year.”

So, Pryor decked out his pickup truck with Christmas lights and antlers and hit the road.

“I usually start the day after Thanksgiving and run clear up through Christmas,” he said. “I go visit my older kids on my days off and in the evenings after work. I usually take them a coffee mug or some tea towels, hot chocolate or other Connection Magazine | 55

“We try to look back at what they would have gotten as kids and replicate that.”

- Tony Pryor, Cowboy Santa

small gift. Sometimes, I end up staying quite awhile, because they just want to visit. Some don’t have many visitors.”

But the bright lights can be a bit disturbing as he discovered with his herd.

“I forgot my lights were on one evening and had to go home to feed the cattle after I got done visiting a few folks,” he laughed. “The cattle would only come up so far and then shy back. I finally figured out, it was the Christmas lights on the truck. They were freaking out.”

Most of the time, Cowboy Santa has a few helpers along to distrubite gifts and visit with the senior kids. Pryor’s wife, Robin, and daughters, Mindy and Abby, sometimes make the trip, but more often it is one of his grandchildren or his friends, Louetta and Sarah Burton.

“We try to look back at what they would have gotten as kids and replicate that,” Pryor said. “And I always take them some Claeys Old Fashioned Candy.”

Cowboy Santa’s Redneck Sled lets people know who is coming to visit.

Cowboy Santa even used his sled to rescue a stranded motorist one snowy winter night last year, much to the man’s delight.

56 | December 2019

But, it isn’t always hugs and smiles for this particular Santa.

“The first two days of the season, people might see this red-eyed Santa in a cemetery,” he said. “First, I visit my kids that have passed on. I usually leave a little Christmas trinket near their headstones. Then, I go ahead and carry on the tradition.”

And it isn’t always the older kids that receive the benefit of Cowboy Santa’s goodwill.

“I was coming home from Cassville one night and came up on a pickup truck stranded in the turning lane at Highways 37 and 60,” he said. “I turned around and talked to the guy and finally towed him to Casey’s. It had started to snow, and I was still wearing my Santa hat, and he asked me what I was doing, so I told him. He asked to take a photo with me to prove to others that Santa had truly helped him out.”

This year, Cowboy Santa expects to visit about 214 area residents, and is grateful to those behind the scenes who donate funds or items for him to deliver.

“I used to pay for gifts out of my own pocket,” he said. “Now, there is an account for Cowboy Santa donations at First State Bank. Last year, I had got $500, which was a big help. There are getting to be so many people on my list to visit, it was really starting to add up.”

It is Pryor’s hope that his children and grandchildren learn the joy of the gift of giving to others, and will continue the tradition after he is no longer able to do so.

“I’d love to see this continue for generations to come,” he said. “But my granddaughter is only 5, and my grandsons are only 2. There’s time.”

The best part of Pryor’s holiday adventures is seeing the eyes and smiles coming from those he visits.

“They’re just like kids,” he said. “Their eyes light up and they get these big ol’ grins, and I get cookies. I really like the cookies.” 

PARENTING COLUMN

BY MEAGAN RUFFING Meagan Ruffing cannot wait to decorate her house for the holidays. She will be visiting family on the east coast so she’s prepped and ready to go with this list of dos and don’ts. Visit her at www.facebook.com/writermeaganruffing to share your list of holiday tips.

DO

respond to holiday invites in a timely manner. It helps the host plan accordingly. Even if you’re not sure about whether or not you can attend, make contact and let that person know.

DO

bring something small to a gathering, even if your budget is tight. It can be something homemade, like cookies, or something store bought like an inexpensive bottle of wine. It doesn’t really matter what the gift is, it’s the thought that counts.

If you’re traveling, whether by car or plane:

DO

DOS and DON’TS this Holiday Season

allow yourself extra time for unexpected delays. This might look like getting to the airport a little bit earlier than you normally do even if you think “you have plenty of time.” This tip has saved me lots of headaches and given me peace of mind. It feels good to be on time and ready to go.

here’s a certain je ne sais quoi (a phrase used for something that’s indescribable) about the holidays for most people.

Maybe it’s the feeling of having friends and family nearby or the way a mom’s heart pitter-patters when she watches her children open their gifts on Christmas morning. Whatever it is, the holidays are about loving on others and being loved. With the hustle and bustle of December, it’s easy to forget some of the most basic dos and don’ts when entertaining or being the one entertained. Follow these simple and straightforward tips for a hassle-free holiday season.

try and make your guests feel welcome if you are the one hosting. Add a sweet note with a bottle of water to put on their nightstand for when they arrive. Fold a couple of towels and washcloths and put them on the bed they will be sleeping on to make them easy to find.

Add a nightlight in the hallway for finding the bathroom at night.

T

DO

Connection Magazine | 57

For anyone experiencing hurt, disappointment, or grief this holiday season…

DON’T forget about self-care. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of all things holiday-related. Take a break and sit on the couch to watch a few of your favorite Holiday Baking episodes or call your mom to see how she’s doing. A few minutes of down time can save you hours of undue stress.

DON’T forget to enjoy the sea-

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White’s Insurance Agency All Lines Of Insurance • Located 2 miles south of Purdy AGENTS: Lea White, Chris Ray and Jessica Tyson

417-442-3858 58 | December 2019

son. Do things that bring you joy. If you like walking around and seeing all of the Christmas lights, then do it. If you enjoy making your kiddos hot chocolate with whipped cream and putting on a movie, then do it. If you love decorating early for Christmas, then do it. Everyone has their own way of enjoying the month of December. Tap in to your inner child and find what makes you happy. Then go and do it.

DON’T try to buy everything. It’s

easy to get pulled into the spending vortex; especially when we see something we just know “they’ll love.” Set a budget and stick to it. Decide that if you get this item, you won’t be able to get that item and then decide if it’s worth it. I’ve had almost 11 years’ experience in buying gifts for my kids and I can tell you, that while it’s fun to fill the Christmas tree with loads of presents, most of them end up not being played with. This holiday is a great way to start instilling what’s really important. Try this with your kids: buy something they need, something they want, something they read, and something they wear. This tip will help you cut costs and be super intentional about what you buy. I always add a stocking filled with fun things for each one of my kids.

DO

try and do one kind thing for yourself each day even if it’s a small thing. I like to buy myself a fancy cup of coffee once a week. On the other days, it might be something like getting outside for a few minutes to breathe in the fresh air or calling a girlfriend to catch up.

Remember to take care of you so you can pour into others.

Happy December!

connection on the go

Norma Cruz and her family, of Monett, took the Connection magazine to Copper Mountain, Colorado.

Some local residents enjoyed a Sunnyland tour to Niagara Falls, New York City and New England states. From left, are: Jeanne Ann Camp, Ann Caraway, and Barbara Henson.

Advertisers’ Index A Beautiful Image.......................................... 20 Acambaro Mexican Restaurant.................. 67 Aire Serv.......................................................... 64 Barry Lawrence Regional Library..................3 Bill Vance Marine.......................................... 52 Bruner Pharmacy..............................................9 Cappy Harris Realtors.................................. 18 Carey’s Cassville Florist............................... 49 Coast to Coast............................................... 52 Community National Bank.......................... 18 Cox Medical Center...................................... 68 Cubs Café....................................................... 48 Diet Center..................................................... 49 Doug’s Pro Lube............................................ 18 Edgewood Creamery.................................... 54 Edward Jones....................................................5 First State Bank of Purdy...............................7 First United Methodist................................ 58 Fohn Funeral Home...................................... 37 Four Seasons Real Estate............................ 28 Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri...........9 Friendly Tire.................................................... 52 Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant..................7 Hutchens Construction............................... 67 Ken’s Collision Center.................................. 37 Kiddie City.........................................................2 Lackey Body Works...................................... 54 Les Jacobs....................................................... 38 Lil Boom Town............................................... 40 Mattax Neu Prater Eye Center................... 20 Monett Chamber of Commerce................. 28 My Best Friend’s Closet............................... 41 Ozark Methodist Manor.............................. 48 Peppers and Co............................................. 41 Plymouth Junction Antique and Flea Market............................................ 41 Race Brothers................................................ 31 Real Life Church............................................ 38 Riehn, J. Michael; Attorney......................... 40 Roaring River Health & Rehab.................... 31 Rusty Gate Flea Market............................... 37 Security Bank of Southwest Missouri...... 30 Shelter Insurance................................... 20, 54 The Brown Bag Breakroom......................... 38 The Coffee Café............................................ 31 The Farmer’s Daughter................................ 40 The Glass Shop.................................................9 The Jane Store............................................... 30 Tomblin’s Jewelry.......................................... 49 Trogdon Marshall.......................................... 37 VisionHealth Eye Center............................. 48 White’s Insurance......................................... 58 Whitley Pharmacy......................................... 28

Connection Magazine | 59

familiar faces

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3 ANGELS FOR CHILDREN

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The fourth annual Angels for Children of the 39th Judicial Circuit Halloween dinner fundraiser was held on Oct. 19 at the Monett City Park Casino.

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Lacy and Mel Cash Connie and Spirow Nicholaw Lina and Jason Brucks Aaron Soper, Myra Goodson Patsy Woods, Natalie Maynard Weston and Kailey Johnson as a washer and laundry, Jason and Haley Kurima as a double stuffed Oreo

60 | December 2019

9 7. Bridget Indovina, Darren Indovina 8. Matt and Cindy Hess 9. Cassie and Walter Branch 10. Steve Weiss, Buz Tennison

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ERNTE-FEST The Freistatt Lions Club’s 46th annual Ernte-Fest was held on Aug. 16 and 17 on the Ernte-Fest grounds in Freistatt.

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1. Peggy Kitching, Dave Fielder, Marcie Osgood, Lee Gieseke, Rock Conway 2. Andra Wolff, Mary Lou Dvorak, Melissa Adams 3. Brad Stewart, Marcie Parrigon 4. Front: Megan, Dustin and Joey Calvert Back: Jordan MacRitchie, Crystal Story 5. Archer Osgood, Castle Osgood, Lars Kirkland, Byron Osgood, Tisha Osgood

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6. Laura, Cooper, Hunter and Andy Craft 7. Front: Chrissy Williams, Robert Williams, Scott George Back: Bethany Williams, Brady Ray, Cheryl Williams, Charlotte George 8. Debbie Stubbs, Hayes Post, Hadlie Post, Mike Stubbs 9. Jerry and Judy Hudson

Connection Magazine | 61

familiar faces

KINGS PRAIRE BENEFIT

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The 20th annual Kings Prairie Community Center benefit concert was held on Aug. 10 on the grounds of the historic Kings Prairie School, east of Monett.

4 1. Front: John Bartlette Back: Pamela Bartlette, RyVe Ausmus 2. Katrina, Clay and Travis Williamson 3. Wilma and Loyd Fields 4. Patricia & Destiny Watkins 5. Rebecca Gilliam, Mackenzie Velten 6. Margaret Salsman, Larry Hyde 7. Karen, Randy and Sandra Rollins 8. Front: Annette and Scott Lay Back: Maddie and James Lay 9. George Ballay, Doris Sisco 10. Kendsay and Libby Roden, Rhonda Harris

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MONETT FFA BOOSTERS CHILI SUPPER The Monett FFA Boosters held their annual chili supper fundraiser supporting the FFA program on Oct. 19 at the Scott Regional Technology Center.

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Ken Zielinski, Garry Butterfield Mark, Marta, Faith and Alyssa Higgs Eddie and Barbara Allen, Tefanie and Bryan Orwig Phyllis James, Angie Hayter Shey Snodgrass, Raymond and Lorie Schmidt Heather and Rob McGuire Keegan Snodgrass, Roy Schmidt, Blanch Shelton, Dan Shelton

7 Connection Magazine | 63

Stay Warm - Breathe Easy

417-847-4372 • 417-235-2100 www.aireserv.com

Serving The Area Since 1978

PANCAKE SUPPER The Monett Kiwanis Club hosted its fall pancake supper at the Scott Regional Technology Center on Nov. 5 in Monett.

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Sarah Yake, Jaime Rutherford, Jessica Kaler Sarah, Cici, Chad and Maggie Gripka Brittany Hickerson, Trevor Funkcannon, Dayton Lynch, Brennan Dragoo Frank Washburn, Jim Moore Dale and Gail Ellis Lou Ellen Honeycutt, Debbie Moore

64 | December 2019

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parting shot

Let Every Day Be Christmas

By Norman W. Brooks Christmas is forever, not for just one day, for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.

The good you do for others is good you do yourself.

Source: https://christmas.365greetings.com/

Photo by Pam Dorton

66 | December 2019

Now is a good time to call and get a free estimate on your asphalt paving needs.

Hutchens Construction Company has been serving Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri for over 55 years with quality Asphalt Paving and Pavement maintenance products Hutchens Construction can handle any job - from the smallest the largest!

With Hutchens Construction Company you will receive the same professional care on your driveway as we give a major highway project.

We provide low cost rehabilitative alternatives for existing asphalt and concrete surfaces including crack filling and seal coating.

Employee Owned

For more information either call us at 888-PAVEIT2 (888-728-3482) Or visit our website at www.hutchensconstruction.com

Feliz Navidad! Merry Christmas!

From the Staff at

Let us cater your special events!

505 Plaza Dr., Monett, Mo. 417-354-8408 www.acambarorestaurant.com

Connection Magazine | 67

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