February Connection 2019

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A Magazine Dedicated to Southwest Missourians

February 2019

Modern Love

Techno-Courtships

Wedding Tales expect it all

Love Business something for that someone

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

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

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February,

the Month of Love

D

oes everyone remember the Valentine boxes that you would take such care creating into the most beautiful boxes in the world hoping that you would receive a Valentine from that special someone in kindergarten, first grade, etc.? I remember spending hours either pasting red construction paper all over a shoe box with glitter and flowers or covering it with aluminum foil and pasting red hearts on it that I had carefully cut out. It was a wonderful day with a Valentine’s party, refreshments and delivering the Valentine cards to each individual classmate’s decorated boxes. Then you would come home and go through your box to read all of your special cards. Those are wonderful memories to me and so much fun.

February is a month that is designated for love. It is a month with special significance touching the secular, romantic and spiritual realms. During the ancient Roman times, it was signified as the month of “purification,” which to me means unconditional love. Perhaps that is not the real meaning, but that is my way of looking at it.

As we grow older, we still look forward to February with more mature ways to express how we feel about another person – perhaps treat someone to a romantic meal by candlelight, or have flowers delivered, usually red roses. You might want to indulge them with a large heart-shaped box of chocolates that contain a variety of inside surprises. Valentine’s Day is a day of love, appreciation and a time to show just how much a person is adored.

In the February issue of Connection Magazine, I hope you will enjoy our article on modern love compared to love that is exhibited by a prior generation. There have been numerous changes in how things are done now in comparison to 40, 50 or more years ago, but the one common factor is love and how we show that to someone else.

I really enjoy hearing about the days of romance during the past generation and how women were courted. My step-mother always said that courting was the most fun.

It is a month that is designated for love.

Connection Magazine | 5

I hope you enjoy the February issue of Connection, and I hope you receive the gift of love on this special day. Of course, we don’t have to limit that action just to Feb. 14.

Let’s just spread the love year around and sprinkle unconditional love dust wherever we go! (As I smile at the thought of red glitter dust all over my husband.)

Lisa Craft

General Manager, Connection Magazine

On the cover:

This couple decided to go with a Bonnie and Clyde theme for their nuptials, including guns and get-away vehicles.

Photo courtesy of JB Photography

Contents 37 Housing Around: Love Nesting season

41 Healthy Connection: The sunshine vitamin 42 Recipes: Healthy mid-week fixes 44 Cutest Kid

45 Parenting Column: Happy Birthdays!

47 Rescued, My Favorite Breed 49 Cutest Pet

50 Connection on the Go 51 Community Calendar 53 Familiar Faces 58 Parting Shot

Valentine cards contributed

by Darlene Wierman

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

6 | February 2019

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

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f e b r u a r y 2019

FEATURES 10 | Modern Romance The keys to a 21st Century girl's heart are hidden along the information superhighway

17 | Venue Love SomePlace Nice of Pierce City offers country grandeur complete with barn beams, chandeliers and balconies

21 | JB Photography Monett native Jamie Brownlee has an eye for capturing the essence of the wedding moments that will last a lifetime

29 | Do you take this woman?

Before holy matrimony can begin in wedded bliss, you've got to go ask Walt Hamer

32 | Patrons of the heart It's Love Day every day for local jewelers and florists

Photo courtesy of JB Photography

Photographer Jamie Brownlee, of Monett, said many venues offer unique opportunities to capture one-of-a-kind photographs, including The Barn at Stone Valley Plantation.

Connection Magazine | 9

'What more could a girl want?'

“Perfume, diamonds and a gun.

Modern

Romance 10 | February 2019

What more could a girl want?”

That’s what we heard the other day in The Monett Times office, which got us to thinking, modern romance is a little different than the old days with roses and a box of chocolates.

So what does today’s landscape offer?

One of my colleagues, Melonie Roberts, who isn’t shy about showing her scars from the relationship wars, observed, "That's why women today carry a cell phone, a credit card and a gun. Because you might have to pay for the meal, still get home, and you might have to kill the ____.”

Story by Murray Bishoff

Pitfalls of modern romance and how to cope in today’s world

For Christmas 2015, Patty Spencer, who runs the 2 S. Firearm and Self Defense Training Range between Monett and Verona with her husband, Roger, received this poem and a gift from her husband:

To some girls, Diamond rings are their thing, They glitter and shine all the time.

But, my girl’s bling is a more powerful thing,

Patty Spencer

It cycles brass & steel she fires it at will.

'With gunsmoke and power, it's a 45 caliber.'

“Roger wrote this when I saved for three years to buy my dream hand firearm,” Patty said. “He wrote this because I am not a ‘diamond bling girl,’ and he knew that his heartfelt poem, custom framed, would provide me with years of love. He also knows–after 34 years–that I love flowers and roses, but I prefer you to buy the plants, so they will provide me with years of beauty verses a few days. Just like my firearms, they provide us with a relaxing hobby, that also helps feed us. They help protect us but mostly, they provide us a sense of security that only a trained firearm family has; 'peace of mind is all the bling, and love required for a happy life.’”

Patty called herself a realist, “not a great romantic.” She credited her husband for being a romantic man and filling out that portion of the relationship.

“My firearms are an extension to me,” Patty said. “I multi-carry and I educate other women and children to do the same. I teach ‘Alternative Carry,’ something besides a firearm for no firearm zones. Nothing makes this ‘girl with a gun’ feel safer opening my door and home to strangers so I may educate, instruct and try everything I can do to make our home and community a safer place to live. I do that with a .45 and a .09 caliber on my hips and other weapons, and training and training and training with a purpose and that is peace of mind that I am able to provide and protect my own and others to the best of my abilities.”

Connection Magazine | 11

I

t wasn’t always that way. There truly was a kinder, gentler dating scene.

As Wilma (Everett) Davis, Monett High School Class of 1953 remembers it, in a slower time, she and a group of high school girls used to head to the Corner Pharmacy at Fourth and Broadway after school for a soda or some chocolate milk. She was noticed by her future husband, Jack, whose father owned Davis Hardware at 320 E. Broadway, “Jack finally asked me for a date,” Wilma recalled. “It was a big deal with my folks, Jack being seven years older than me. But Daddy knew the family, and eventually we got to go on a date.

Back then, everything was genteel. Everyone was mannerly. Age wasn’t that critical. We all intermingled.”

There were places everyone went, Wilma recalled, like the Cubs Den at Eighth and Cleveland, not far from the Brown Gables restaurant at Ninth Street, were Little Caesars is today. Wilma said dances attracted the dating crowd, especially the big ones hosted by the Jaycees, a group where Jack played a prominent part. She recalled dances at Thanksgiving, a Christmas dance at the City Park Casino or the National Guard Armory on Euclid, and the New Year’s Eve dance. She recalled Jack was an especially good dancer.

There were night clubs where the kids would go to dance, like The Westport Inn at the south end of town on Highway 37, or the Cockatoo or the Golden Door in Aurora. The drive-in movie theater and the bowling alley in Monett came along in the 1950s to offer more options.

“We went to a lot of movies at the Gillioz Theatre,” Wilma said. “We double dated. If you were going to the movies, your date would come by, come in the house and visit with the parents. If you were lucky enough to borrow a car, you’d go that way, or walk. We lived at Benton and Seventh. If Jack’s folks had made plans for the car, he would walk

12 | February 2019

Wilma davis over from Eisenhower and we’d walk downtown. His folks had an old pickup he could have used, but he didn’t want to drive it.”

There were places Wilma never went.

She recalled the two night spots west of town at Highways 60 and 97, Yonkerville and Shady Groves, known as tough bars. Classmate Charles Rowell recalled that was no idle boast. He had a friend, one who walked across the road between the two establishments, who recounted entering Shady Groves one night just as a beer bottle came flying and shattered against the wall. He turned around and retraced his steps to safer territory.

Kids also got together and played their records, or gathered around the jukebox at one of the cafés. Wilma recalled they bought their first TV in 1954 after she and Jack married. TV reception was often snowy and very poor, making it not much better than listening to the radio.

TV lacked the big pull to shape her generation’s evenings, she said.

“All in all it was a very good time to grow up,” Wilma said. “We respected each other. You don’t have that today like you should. We had good friends from that time and still do. We could get together and all have a good time. It was fun.”

T

hat lack of respect is what Brittany Gaston, one of today’s gladiators in the modern romance scene, pointed out as part of the trouble today.

“Here’s the thing with guys these days, they just plain out don’t respect women,” Brittany said. “Not at all.

They seem to have forgotten that women can do what a man can and then some. We were not just put here for their entertainment. And it seems like most of this generation seems to think just that. They want the woman to be loyal to them, but they don’t want to be loyal to the woman. They feed her everything possible she needs to hear to keep her around, yet the whole time he’s out talking to other women on the side. I don’t even blame Momma and Daddy for their behavior because you choose how you treat someone. Plain and simple.

“Then you have the guys who can’t handle a strong woman. Some women don’t want to be ‘taken care of.’

We want our independence. We are strong-minded women who go after what we want, work for everything we have. And some men find that intimi-

A

more careful navigator in these treacherous waters has been Kaitlyn Schumacher of Monett, a 2010 Monett High School graduate. She’s seen social media reshape her generation’s interactive patterns and tries to make sense of it all in her own life.

“I don’t use dating sites so I haven’t ‘met’ anyone online,” Kaitlyn said. “I do know a few people who met their spouses that way and they are very happy.

“I have used social media to get reacquainted with people. There have been guys I knew in high school that

brittany gaston dating. Because if she can hold her own, if she can take care of herself, she sure in the heck ain’t gonna put up with any of the nonsense. She won’t need him. And most guys don’t like that because they feel like they aren’t in control.”

The slower pace of getting acquainted in Wilma’s day seems to be a luxury Brittany hasn’t found in a “swipe right” world.

“Marriages/relationships seems to be ending because no one wants to compromise,” Brittany said. “No one wants

I grew apart from but, thanks to social media, we were able to reconnect later in life.”

A date can be anything in today’s scene, Kaitlyn said, from going shopping together, walks in the park, movies or plays, college students making study dates, meals, or coffee.

“It’s really about spending time with the other person,” she said.

Blind dates aren't truly “blind” anymore, she conceded.

“Even when a mutual friend is trying to set you up, the first thing they do is pull up that person’s profile on a social media platform,” Kaitlyn said.

"No one wants to keep fighting for love...

The hopeless romantics are a dying breed." to keep fighting for love. They just throw it away. They give up. On to the next one. No one waits to heal from a breakup. They move on so quickly and take the past relationship into the new one which then damages the new one as well. Everyone is quick to move on and try and out do the other. It’s becoming a world of bitter people who don’t even want real love anymore. The hopeless romantics are a dying breed at this point and hooking up seems to be the only thing anyone cares about.”

kaitlyn schumacher

Connection Magazine | 13

“From there you can see what the person looks like, what some of their hobbies are, what kind of job they have, where they are from, and all kinds of other things. Now, there is more to a person than what they post on social media. In my opinion, what a person posts is what they want the world to know about them. While that doesn’t tell you everything, that does tell you a lot about a person and can determine if you want to get to know that person on a deeper level.”

Safety becomes a bigger concern in meeting people today. Kaitlyn sees the level of caution used varies with each person.

“Most of the time if someone is meeting another for the first time, it’s in a public place,” she said. “People will go to coffee or dessert to first meet a person to get to know them.”

Going out in groups seems to still be a good idea, both for safety and to avoid awkward situations.

“When first meeting people, it is preferred that it be in a group setting,” Kaitlyn said, “not just for safety sake but to also avoid awkward silence in case the other person is hard to talk to or talks too much. The last thing anyone wants is to be stuck in a place with someone who won’t stop talking about League of Legends.”

The hyper-sensitivity that followed the birth of the #MeToo movement has put much of what had passed for flirting on a “do not go there” status.

“There are some ways that people used to flirt that are offensive now,”

14 | February 2019

Kaitlyn said. “For example, whistling at a girl was considered a compliment, now it’s offensive. Women today will tell you that they are not a dog and will not respond to a whistle.”

Kaitlyn suggested easing into relationships, contrary to the “instant” ways of the social media world.

“It all starts with a ‘like,’” she said.

“The first clue that a guy is into a girl is he begins liking things she’s posted on social media. She then can reciprocate

by liking a post of his. This then leads to the ‘talking’ stage. The couple will converse back and forth to get an idea of the level of interest of the other. In the talking stage the couple will flirt by complimenting each other, but will keep things neutral so that it doesn’t scare the other one off. The talking stage then leads to the ‘hanging out’ stage. Now, this isn’t a date, it’s two people occupying the same space at the

same time. This could be at an event that they both had planned on attending or a group activity. Then we move to the ‘date’ phase. This is where the couple will go out, enjoy one another’s company and allow the relationship to grow into something more serious or sizzle out to non-existence.”

Expectations seem to vary much more than in Wilma’s day. Kaitlyn had a case in point story, one that could have happened any time: “One of my friends was on a date with a guy.

The date went well and everyone had a good time.

My friend was dropping her date off at his house, and because the date went well she was expecting a goodnight kiss. She had the car in park and said that she had a nice time, he agreed and said they should do it again sometime. Right at the moment she thought he would kiss her, he bolted out of the car.

“I think both men’s and women’s expectations have changed,” Kaitlyn continued.

“With men, I think the ‘ideal woman’ isn’t necessarily the best cook in pearls, but someone who is invested in their community and has hobbies and interests that she cares about. Men seem to value women that have some independence and are able to take care of things on their own. With women, I think that they aren’t looking for someone who will take care of them and provide for them in the traditional sense, but more for a partner that will support them in their dreams and ambitions. Tradi-

tional roles are not a high priority for young adults. Everyone is different, but more people are looking for a partner that fits their lifestyle. They are not as interested in creating the lifestyle that is expected of them based on society’s traditional standards.”

The speed of social media has nonetheless impacted how people approach each other, how often, and can redefine what is too much.

“In my experience, people have time limits that they set for themselves before texting or responding to a text,” Kaitlyn said. “You don’t want to seem desperate or clingy, but you don’t want the other person to think that you’re not interested either. I don’t think that girls mind sending the first text or message. It’s all in how you play it off. If something was discussed during a date and you find a funny meme or video that relates to that conversation, then she could send that to him and use it as a conversation starter.

“Texting becoming an issue depends on the individual. Some people like to have daily communication. Others are too busy to be worried about texting another person all the time.”

And then there’s “ghosting.”

“If things go bad early on in the dating game, one person will stop responding to the other,” Kaitlyn said.

“The texting will go from every day to once a week, to non-existent. All communication stops suddenly and without any explanation. It’s a horrible thing to do to another person, but it’s common practice. People try to play it off as they are busy but—let’s be real— we know what you mean.”

Social media has created new rules for staying connected, beyond commenting on a post or direct messaging the other.

“But it’s actually cooler to stay connected longer,” Kaitlyn said. “Snapchat will keep track of how many days in a row you ‘snap’ the other person. One of my friends, and her now husband, have a snap streak of over 380 that they are quite proud of.”

One of the oldest traumas about teenage dating was you were not “lovable” if you were not paired with someone. Of all the contributions of social media, Kaitlyn said that idea of personal failure is now fading away.

“With social media, we have much larger social circles that we can be a part of than we did before the internet,” she said. “Before, a person might have been limited to the people that they connected with in their community but with social media its easier to have a connection to people from all over.

“With apps like Tinder—I’m not a user of this app, but I know several people who are—it takes away the idea that there isn’t anyone out there.

It creates more of a ‘Thank you, next’

attitude. If one match didn’t work out, there are several others to swipe right.

Swipe right means you are interested in the person. Swiping left means you are not. There is a whole world of people right in the palm of your hand so the fear of being alone is much less present.”

Modern romance may still have a lot of sharp edges. The ground rules may not be clear and the players certainly may not be ready. It’s different and sometimes scary. But then it always was.

To those of you on the hunt, we wish our very best, and a reminder that many have navigated the ocean before you. Where there’s heart, there’s hope.

∞

Larger online social circles can lead to new online love connections Connection Magazine | 15

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ince early 2017, SomePlace Nice, located at 9131 Wallaby Rd., in rural Pierce City, has been the chosen venue for school proms, retirement and birthday parties, corporate events, and special events such as the holiday craft fair, bridal show, and Valentine's dinner.

But their primary customers are couples seeking that special place to make their wedding memories unique.

“The inspiration for SomePlace Nice Event Center was the wedding of our son Jeff and his bride, Brooke,” said Ronda Hatfield, who owns the venue with her husband, Kevin. “Attendees commented on the picturesque view and peaceful setting. Afterward, we received several requests to use our farm to host other weddings and the journey began.”

Story by Melonie Roberts

Rural Pierce City venue offers pastoral views, peaceful setting Connection Magazine | 17

The rustic interior of SomePlace Nice, in rural Pierce City, lends itself to either casual or elegant décor.

The venue has been the setting for high school proms, retirement and birthday parties, corporate events, a Holiday Craft Fair, bridal shows, and Valentine's dinner.

The Hatfields completed construction on the barn in the spring of 2017, just in time to host the Pierce City High School prom.

“We continue to host proms, retirement and birthday parties, corporate events, and special events such as our Holiday Craft Fair, bridal shows and Valentine's dinner,” Ronda said. “Our main focus, though, is weddings.”

SomePlace Nice has become a favorite venue for many couples in the area. “That is a great compliment, considering the many other beautiful venues in southwest Missouri,” Ronda said. “According to feedback and comments from our guests, we earned the 'favorite venue' status not only by the sheer beauty of the barn, but most appreciate the ease of access for guests, our peaceful setting, the amenities we offer, and our two-day rental policy.

We want our guests to experience a stress free, memorable event, and a two-day rental is essential.”

18 | February 2019

SomePlace Nice offers ease of access for guests, a peaceful setting, several amenities and a two-day rental policy.

The rental policy is practicing turn key for any event.

“However, we offer additional services as needed or requested,” she said. “That consists of wedding planning, day coordinator, officiant, bar tender, set up and take down and clean up services. Other needed services are provided by vendors.

“Our intention is to utilize as many local vendors rather than trying to be all things to all events,” she said. “We have some incredible partners and vendors in our area and prefer to offer them the opportunity to succeed along with us, rather than compete with them. We provide our guests a list of preferred vendors.”

The Hatfields recently added a 2,400 square foot outdoor pavilion to offer a covered outside event.

“That addition allows us to serve over 400 guests,” Ronda said. “This, too, has contributed to our success and has allowed us the opportunity to serve many more guests.”

The Hatfields credit their hard work, perseverance and commitment to exceed expectations as factors contributing to the success and popularity of SomePlace Nice.

“As a result, we encourage guests to reserve their special date at least eight months to one year in advance,” She said.

“We're already booking for 2020.”

As their business continues to grow, the couple reflects on the reasons that inspired building the event center.

“SomePlace Nice was a vision that has become a reality,” Ronda said. “Our dream is to provide a special place where people can make memories and celebrate any occasion. We feel as if we've added value to our community and given other business owners another outlet to grow their business and contribute to their success.”

For more information on SomePlace Nice, call 417-825-2626 or visit SomePlace Nice on Facebook.

∞

Connection Magazine | 19

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Being the ringbearer is a big job, and photographer Jamie Brownlee caught the young man in a moment of reflection before the big ceremony.

JB Wedding

P hotography Story by Melonie Roberts | Photos courtesy of Jamie Brownlee

Connection Magazine | 21

J

amie Brownlee, a Monett High School alumna and owner of JB's Photography, has always held an interest in art, pursuing drawing, painting and taking Polaroids with her family's camera from elementary school through high school and college.

However, it wasn't until after she had a daughter of her own and returned to Monett to build a stable life for themselves that she returned to school to follow her passion for photography.

“I decided to make it a full-time job in 2009,” Brownlee said. “I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom for my daughter, Addalyn, but hoped to become a professional photographer, too.”

It seemed a natural career choice for Brownlee.

“I always 'see pictures' when I'm out driving,” she said. “I'm always taking pictures of something, or painting it or drawing it.”

So she started her business, focusing on family portraits, special events and senior photos.

“I had no plans to become a wedding photographer,” she said. “But I shot my first wedding in 2011, and that changed my mind. It was a challenge, high pressure, and I like having control. But what got me, was being able to take pictures of them and show their love for each other. I had to spread that to everybody. The nerves of the bride, the anticipation, it all came out.”

It was especially difficult for Brownlee to get up in front of a church filled with spectators and point her camera down the aisle.

“I was very shy in school, and to put myself in front of hundreds of people was nerve-wracking,” she said. “But when the music started, that all went away, and I knew what I was meant to do.”

22 | February 2019

Trashing the dress is not a rising trend in southwest Missouri, however on this couple's 10th anniversary, they opted to trash the dress as a family, commemorating not only the wedding day, but creating a happy family memory as well.

Through experience, Brownlee and her secondary photographers have compiled a “survival kit” containing everything from safety pins, needles and thread, a first aid kit, wipes, tissues, nail clippers, double stick tape, super glue, duct tape, Tylenol, Tums and hair spray to a van full of props and wedding décor in the event an outside wedding has to transition to an inside venue due to unexpected weather.

“We are not going to let a bride's day be ruined,” she said. “It breaks my heart to see a bride stressed out on her wedding day, especially if it is something that can be fixed.”

Then, Brownlee focuses capturing what she calls the “real” moments of the day.

“My favorite moment at any wedding is that first look, when the father of the bride sees his daughter dressed right before the ceremony begins,” she said. “They always break down, seeing their little girls become brides.

“I prefer to catch the emotions, the real moments, rather than a bunch of posed photos,” she said. “The laughing runaway flower girls, or the ones that melt

down in the aisle; the ring bearers that run down the aisle instead of walking, or the ones more shy than the girls. They are always the ones that sit down when they get to the front, even if they're supposed to be standing.”

Brownlee said she has also noticed change in the way the ceremony, and the photographers, are asked to accommodate the happy couple.

“People used to want a lot of photos of the bridal party,” she said. “Now, the focus is more on the bride and groom.

Smashing the cake into the other person’s face is not a big thing now. People are trending toward more elegant, adult shots. The bouquet and garter shots are not as important as they once were. People around here are not as apt to trash the dress. Some of these changes make my job easier.”

There has been one notable trash the dress event, which involved the husband, wife and their two daughters.

“On their 10 year anniversary, they got into a creek to trash her dress as an anniversary event,” Brownlee said. “I loved that they did it as a family.”

Connection Magazine | 23

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But there are, at times, complications, clashes in personalities, and other pitfalls that can throw a wedding off schedule or, worse, bring the bride to tears on her special day.

“I've had cases where the mother of the groom wanted to change the entire photo schedule on the day of the wedding,” she said. “A month prior to that, I had sat down with the mother of the bride, the mother of the groom, the bride and the groom, and established all photo schedules for the wedding party. Come wedding day,

the MOG decided it wasn't going to work – for her. She started setting family members up and demanding we take photos.

Had we allowed it, she would have messed up all of the photos the bride had requested.

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Brownlee typically schedules a bridal session separate from the wedding, in order to capture as many shots on the bride in her gown as possible.

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Connection Magazine | 25

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26 | February 2019

“It allows the bride to wear the dress more than once,” she said. “And it takes the stress off of having to get them all on the day of the wedding.”

Brownlee recommends booking weddings and other milestone events at least six months to a year in advance. She can also assist couples with suggestions for wedding venues and other service providers.

“My favorites are SomePlace Nice in rural Pierce City, Samuel Cedars in Rogersville, Stone Valley Plantation in Pleasant Hope, the Gambrel Barn near Freistatt, and the Coleman Vault at Marionville,” she said.

“Pre-planning, including the photographer and the venue, are the first two things to be done once the date is decided,” she said. “Especially during the prime wedding season, which, now, is August through December. I sit down with the couple and learn as much about them as possible, whether they want spontaneous photos, as opposed to posed shots, what's most important to them, and what problems might arise during the course of wedding day.”

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Connection Magazine | 27

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Wedding Stories

W

eddings­­– that glorious culmination of the romantic quest­­– sealing in a rapturous ritual. Weddings should be that perfect day, the experience of a lifetime. The dress, the vows, the rings, the kiss, all of it should be good enough to make great memories to cherish forever.

Alas, not all weddings turn out that way. Some are even better, and some, well... they are memorable­­ – even as disasters.

While couples tend to only see their own weddings, the pastor conducting the service sees many, and sometimes even more than he bargained for.

Walt Hamer of Monett, a retired Presbyterian pastor ordained in 1969, officially retired in 2008, but continued to fill pulpits for almost five years after that. Through 2001, Hamer had conducted more than 150 weddings.

In the big picture, where a Catholic priest will oversee all the weddings in a big parish, 150 is not that many. It was enough to provide Hamer with insight into the ritual, and the outcome.

Walking through the wedding door Story by Murray Bishoff

Before I do “I had couples take a counseling course, where we talked about what they might be getting into,” Hamer said. “I used a lot of things I ordered through the mail, like testing materials to help them evaluate their compatibility­­–like the Briggs Myers personality profile. I had some couples come in where I wanted to make sure if they had some personality conflicts, they'd have tools to work through them.”

Hamer said if he encountered a couple that didn't want to go through the counseling, he'd tell them to find another minister.

“One couple was referred to me because their minister was out of town,” Hamer recalled. “He called me and asked if I would do the wedding, and I said I'll talk to them. He told me the woman was 'a little bit pregnant.' It turned out she was seven and a half months pregnant. I asked what each of them was bringing to the wedding to make a successful marriage. They never said they loved each other. I said, 'This has problems.' They ended up getting married by the original pastor.

“There was another case where the groom was Jewish. He refused to look at some counseling material I provided to explain his wife's Christianity. They were married in the church where I was at, but I didn't do it. I went back to that church for its 125th anniversary.

They were still there and came up to tell me so. I should have asked if they were still going to a Christian church.”

Walt Hamer

A pastor recalls his adventures presiding at marriages Connection Magazine | 29

custom service Traditional wedding ceremonies have that treacherous line in the script, asking if anyone objects to the marriage to “stand up now or forever hold your peace.” Hamer said he never had anyone rise on that occasion and seldom did he put that into the ceremony to invite such an awkward moment.

Hamer would provide couples with a book containing a wide range of wedding ceremonies, both Protestant and Roman Catholic, broken into different parts. The couple could select pieces from many styles of weddings for theirs, or write their own.

“A traditional ceremony runs about 12 minutes without music,” Hamer said. “Less than a third of the couples I married went that way. Most wanted to design their own ceremony to fit their own personality.”

Some weddings end up in unusual places, making them even more memorable.

“I think the oddest place I ever did a wedding was at a Presbyterian church camp,” Hamer recalled. “I kidded the couple saying, 'The camp faces to the east. Too bad you're not doing the wedding in the morning so the sun comes up on the service.' They looked at each other and said, 'That's a great idea.' So we did the wedding at 6 a.m. next to Lake Okoboji in Iowa. What was really neat was the ducks flew in and landed at exactly the right time. They asked me how I did that and I said, 'I have connections.' We had breakfast for a reception. The only bad thing was the mosquitoes. It wasn't so bad for the guys in their suits and me in my robes, but the girls with backless dresses were filled with mosquito bites.”

Some couples included the fun in their ritual.

“I had a man and woman who were 'country folk.' He did the wedding with cowboy boots and a hat,” Hamer recalled.

30 | February 2019

“She wanted to be barefoot and pregnant, but she wasn't pregnant. She got married in bare feet and had a string of artificial pearls wound between her toes and ankles. The bridesmaids all had mini-skirts, and this was in the 1980s.”

expect suprises Hamer said he heard of weddings done while skydiving. “That's a quickie,” he noted. Then there are those weddings that just don't go according to plan.

“I remember one where the couple wanted a young nephew to be the ring bearer,” Hamer said. “They insisted the nephew was brilliant, and he could do it.

I suggested they don't put the real rings on the pillow, just in case. When it came time for the ceremony and for the little boy to walk down the aisle, he wouldn't do it. They came down, and when it was time for the rings and the boy realized he wasn't there, he came running up the aisle, but he left the pillow with the rings behind. The photographer realized what happened and he ran back to get the pillow and handed it to the bride's mother.

Then he realized he had forgotten his pillow and had to run back to get it. I gave the bride the 'I warned you' look.

We finally got them married.”

Hamer recalled a Catholic priest told about one of his weddings involving a Hispanic couple. He asked the groom if he would “take this woman to be his lawfully wedded wife,” and the man said no.

He stopped the ceremony, and the couple withdrew to the sacristy, where “a lot of yelling” could be heard for several minutes. Finally, the couple came back out.

The priest asked the question again, and this time the groom meekly said, “I do.”

Geography can play tricks on weddings, especially working over state lines.

Hamer recalled one case where a couple lived at Offutt Air Force Base near Omaha. They had to marry in Dubuque, Iowa, and went there to get a wedding license.

“They miscalculated the waiting

period,” Hamer said. “They had to get someone to go get the license, put it in a box and fly it to the wedding. We were at the reception for five hours until the box arrived with the license in it. I usually tell people to wait 30 days after getting the license for the wedding.”

nobody's perfect There were times when even the pastor's best efforts fall short.

“I blew one wedding,” Hamer recalled. “I kept calling the bride 'Terri' and her name was 'Traci.' I called her the wrong name three times before the Maid of Honor corrected me. It was the only time I used the regular ceremony book, and I didn't write her name in. I didn't do that again.”

Hamer found it difficult to offer advice to a new pastor preparing to do weddings.

“Just spend time with them and get to know them,” he said. “Help them to get to know each other. Statistics say couples who live together before they get married have a 50 percent greater chance of getting divorced. I think that's because they really don't know each other yet and they're still courting during that year. Then they're not ready to learn what the other person is really like.”

Hamer's favorite weddings were those of his two daughters, both of which he conducted. One was in a church where he was pastor. The other was in a church in Tulsa where his daughter and fiance were attending school. Hamer had to go to Miami, Okla., to register as a minister in the state, where credentialing, he noted, is stricter than in Missouri.

Hamer found the nuances, even the little slips, that occur in ceremonies tend to make the experience more personal.

He was pleased to have presided over no major catastrophes and had high hopes for those he sent off into their married world.

∞

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Connection Magazine | 31

In the

LOVE Business

For more information about Tomblin's Jewelry and Gifts people can call 417-847-2195. For more information about Carey’s Cassville Florist people can call 417-847-2363.

Story by Jordan Privett

I

t’s that time of year when love is in the air, gifts are being bought and local shop owners working in the business of love, gear up for the upswing in jewelry and floral gifts.

Chloe Epperly, co-owner of Tomblin’s Jewelry and Gifts in Cassville, said Valentine’s day is the second most popular holiday for the shop, behind Christmas.

“Because Cupid shoots at the heart, heart-shaped jewelry is very popular during the Valentine’s holiday,” Epperly said. “We also get a lot of orders for engraved jewelry with names or dates on them.”

Epperly said diamonds are always a girl's best friend and the shop sells a lot of them this time of year, but rubies stand for love and are red so they become pretty popular around Valentine’s Day. “We did a heart cut diamond one Valentine’s day that was just beautiful,” she said. “I’ve been in this business for 40 years. My dad had the shop, and one of his employees left so he asked me to come work for him until he could hire someone else. I’ve been doing this ever since.”

Epperly said her dad worked at a Zales in Oklahoma, then in 1947, he went to jewelry and watch repair school in Oklahoma.

“He first bought the building next to Willis Insurance on the square in 1964, and opened Tomblin’s,” she said. “In 1967, he expanded and bought another location.

32 | February 2019

Courtesy photo

Wayne and Tommie Tomblin

Every love story starts somewhere. For Wayne and Tommie Tomblin it started at their wedding, or lack there of. The couple was asked to be witnesses for a friend's wedding, but the Justice of the Peace put their names in the bride and groom spot by mistake. Wayne looked at Tommie, and the two decided that they would be married. By happy accident, a love story was developed that lasted their entire lives, and one that their children continue to tell today. This photo was taken in 1945, six months after the two were married.

diamonds

arrangements

gold jewelry

“In 1982, he bought this place.

Dana Kammerlohr, my sister, and I just took over after he got sick.

"We have sold jewelry to three-four generations of loyal customers."

Epperly said she hears stories from people who say they came in to buy an engagement ring right out of high school, when they didn’t have much money, and her dad never made them put up a down payment or sign any contracts.

“He would just take their word that they would come back in and make payments,” she said. “Mom and dad both really had a thing for young love.”

Dana Kammerlohr, Cassville Chief of Police, said her dad always cared a lot about customer service.

“He always said, ‘We are from a small town, and in a small town you support it by shopping local first,’” she said. “It was important to him to be loyal to our home town.”

Kammerlohr said her dad also always wanted the packages to be pretty.

“I just talked to a man the other day who said dad sold him the engagement ring he gave his wife, and the wedding bands,” she said. “We hear stories like that all the time, dad had a soft spot in his heart for things like that.”

Kammerlohr said her dad always tried to instill values in his employees, and that helped the store.

“Dad got into this business because he liked to help people, and he liked to see young people find success,” she

said. “He would say, ‘I can guarantee the ring, but I can’t guarantee the engagement.”

Kammerlohr helps out at the shop during the holidays, and she said she sees customers she saw in the shop when she was younger continuing to shop at Tomblin’s.

“Those customers say, ‘It’s not Christmas until I go to Tomblin’s,’” she said.

Aside from jewelry, there are a few other businesses that see an upward trend during Valentine’s Day, one in particular is a florist.

Carey Howe, owner and designer of Carey’s Cassville Florist, said Valentine’s Day is one of her busiest holidays.

“Everyone wants their flowers all in one day,” she said. “You have to work extra hard to get prepared for the orders to go out the door as fast as you can.”

Howe said Mother’s Day is also very profitable, but it just isn’t as stressful.

“If you want people to like your work,” she said, “Valentine’s Day is the chance to make that happen. Everyone wants their bouquet to be extra special.”

Howe said this is a chance to show off what she can do, and how well she can take care of her customers.

“Every order is special and important,” she said. “However, during Valentine’s Day there are so many orders that I can prove to my customers that I can work under that kind of stress and

still give them something special and meaningful.”

Howe said she originally wanted to be an art teacher, but she didn’t finish college and just started working.

“When I was about 20, I was married and I needed a job,” Howe said. “I worked at Lonnie’s, which was a florist on Main street, until I had my baby.

Then, I opened up a daycare so I could be with my baby.”

Howe said in the meantime, Lonnie’s daughter Cheryl took over the business.

“Since both our boys were the same age, when my son went to school, she asked me if I wanted to come back and work for her,” she said. “She retaught me everything that her mother had originally taught me, and when she died I kind of stepped up to help her husband run the business.

“After Cheryl died, her husband bought Cassville Smith Florist.”

Howe said then in 2002, she bought that business.

“I slowly dropped the Smith name, and changed it to Carey’s,” she said.

“When I moved to the location I’m at now, I was really able to change the name and that is when I really made it my own.”

Howe bought her current building in 2015.

“I just love art; I had a passion to paint and draw,” Howe said. “Since that didn’t pan out for me, God blessed me with this job.”

Connection Magazine | 33

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Howe said she absolutely loves helping men decide what to get their wives or girlfriends around Valentine’s Day. “It is always nice to know that what you have helped with directed them toward making their significant other happy,” she said. “Sometimes I’ll get messages saying how much they loved it, and that always makes me happy.”

Howe said roses are obviously very popular during the Valentine’s Day holiday.

“Mostly red roses are the big seller for Valentine’s Day,” she said. “But we also carry many different colored roses for those women who like something different.”

Howe said that the second most popular arrangement for Valentine’s Day would be a pretty mix of floral arrangements with some roses in them.

“Third would be carnations,” she said. “Then of course there are balloons, bears, candy bouquets and chocolates as well.”

Howe said there was one story that has stuck out to her over the years.

“This gentleman, who has passed away now, would order his wife two dozen roses for Valentine’s Day over several years,” she said. “After she passed away, he still came in and ordered the same bouquet, and he put them on her grave.”

Howe said those stories are really touching to her, because she gets to see love that lasts forever.

“To me, being in this business during these kinds of holidays means I get to show people that I love my work, and I love making those beautiful arrangements for the people that are getting them,” she said. “I always say, ‘flowers speak wonders,’ because sometimes there just aren’t the words there to say what you feel.”

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pring is just around the corner: the time of year when lovebirds of every feather are thinking about a nest.

Humans are no exception. “Spring Fever” is a very real phenomenon, marked by a renewed zeal for life, love, and purchasing a home. According to statistics, more houses are sold in April and May, than in any other month. For first-time buyers, the home-purchasing process can seem a bit overwhelming.

According to Kellie Moreland, mortgage lender for Community National Bank in Monett, it's important not to become emotionally invested in a particular property until you're sure

you can purchase it.

“It's fun to look at houses, but you might be setting yourself up for disappointment if you're not sure how much of a house you can afford before you look,” she stated. “Any mortgage lender can pre-approve you for a loan before you start looking at houses. Actually, unless you're paying cash, loan pre-approval should always be the first step in a home purchase. Just come in and we'll help you with an application.

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Connection Magazine | 37

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“Something to be careful of is to keep in mind your monthly household expenses.” Moreland cautioned.

“You don't want to run out of money for groceries and gas just because you're making a new house payment.

I wouldn't feel comfortable, myself, loaning people money under those conditions. The loan amount a person is pre-approved for isn't necessarily a payment they'll be comfortable making.”

“At the risk of sounding self-serving, sometimes that's why it's nice to work with a local bank and lender whom you can sit down face-to-face with, as opposed to an anonymous person on the telephone,” Moreland continued. “A local person wants to maintain a good reputation in the community, so they want you to be satisfied.”

Many prospective first-time homebuyers are not aware that they can shop around for interest rates – you can and you should! Not all lenders offer the same interest rates for mortgages. Even a fraction of a percentage's difference in rate can mean paying considerably more money over the term of a loan, and more on a monthly payment. Mortgage-rate shopping must be done within a 45day period so that your credit score will not be negatively affected.

Conventional loans require a 20 percent down payment, sometimes a challenge for first-time home buyers to come up with, although –if they can swing it –a buyer will end up paying less in interest over the life of the remaining 80 percent mortgage.

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Office 417-235-2202 After Hours 1-800-AIIstate SRoldan@allstate.com Auto, Home, Business, Life

other loan options with much lower down payments (or even zero down) are available for qualified first-time homebuyers. The house itself must also meet stringent requirements in order to qualify for these loans.

Another good reason for seeking loan pre-approval before looking at prospective houses is that real estate agents will be much more comfortable working with you. For agents, it's disappointing to show a home to someone whom they later discover isn't able to afford the home.

There are many good real estate agents who will be happy to help you with the purchase of your first home, but, whenever possible, it's wise to work with only one agent.

In fact, you might consider signing a “Buyer's Agency” contract with a specific realtor in order to receive the

best possible service. A realtor feels more comfortable going the extra mile, when he (or she) knows that he is the only agent a buyer is working with.

Working with only one realtor will not limit your access to looking at houses listed by other real estate agencies. Most agents and offices all have access to the same homes for sale through a common multi-list system, and they are happy to work together to show each other’s listings.

If you've been thinking about a home purchase, February is a good month to gather your financial information, sit down with a lender and find out how much house you can afford. That way, when spring arrives, you'll be ready to pick a nest and settle in.

∞

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Connection Magazine | 39

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www.kenscollisioncenter.com 40 | February 2019

h e a lt h y c o n n e c t i o n

Sunshine vitamin in winter Vitamin D

is commonly called the “sunshine vitamin” because we get most of this vitamin we need from the UV rays of the sun. In the winter, days are shorter, gloomier, and colder so it is much harder for us to get what our bodies require during this part of the year. Though harder, it is still very important for us to be getting our vitamin D each day. It is predicted that 40 percent of the U.S. population is deficient, partly because we do not go outside enough, we wear sunblock outside, and we are not eating enough Vitamin D through food sources.

Low vitamin D levels are linked to depression (seasonal affective disorder is a common occurrence), bone loss, and chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes and cancer.

2. Go outside:

Here are some tips to help you get more vitamin D this winter:

1. Eat plenty of these food sources: fish (salmon, herring, sardines, halibut,

tuna, and mackerel in particular), seafood (shrimp, oysters), egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified foods (dairy milk, plant-based milks, orange juice, cereal, and oatmeal).

Fun fact: Did you know mushrooms synthesize vitamin D from the sun just like humans?

Winter is a great time to take a tropical vacation! If not, go play in the snow, go skiing, snowboarding, or go on short walks if the weather is warm enough. Just remember to have some skin exposed (hands, face, etc.).

3. Take a supplement:

This is a last resort option if all else fails.

It is important to talk with your doctor first before taking any supplement. Your doctor can check your blood levels of vitamin D and make a safe recommendation that will be most effective for your level. Excessive intake could happen with taking the wrong kind of supplement.

Here is a recipe using good sources of vitamin D: Seared Salmon with Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Sauce INGREDIENTS 2 salmon filets Salt and pepper 1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil 1 Tbsp butter 1/3 cup diced onion ¼ cup wine (or broth) 8 button mushrooms, sliced 3 cups chopped spinach 2 minced garlic cloves 1 Tbsp flour ¾ c half & half 1 tsp dill ½ tsp thyme ½ tsp chili powder Zest and juice of ½ lemon Fresh parsley (optional-for garnish)

Directions

• Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add oil to pan and sear salmon until it releases from the pan. Flip and cook about 3 more minutes. Remove salmon to a separate plate.

• Using the same pan, add the garlic and onions and cook until onions are translucent. Add the wine or broth to the pan and then add mushrooms. Add the spinach and stir until it is wilted.

• Add in flour, half and half, and remaining seasonings (dill, thyme, chili powder). Squeeze in lemon juice and add the zest.

• Add salmon back to the pan with the sauce.

Serve sauce over salmon filet. Suggestion: serve with a cooked grain or pasta.

Recipe adapted from: https://www.spainonafork.com/seared-salmon-with-creamy-spinach-mushroom-sauce/ natalie truber,graduated from Missouri State University with a bachelor's degree in dietetics. She is currently completing her dietetic internship at Cox College. Her interest in the field of dietetics includes outpatient clinical and retail dietetics.

Connection Magazine | 41

Planning meals ahead can reduce stress, and lessen the chance of reaching for less healthy meal alternatives.

Crusty Herb Potato Wedges

Healthier Easy Baked Tilapia

Ingredients

Ingredients

2 Russet potatoes, each cut into 6 equal wedges olive oil 1 tablespoon herbes de Provence 1 pinch paprika, or to taste salt and ground black pepper to taste

4 (4 ounce) fillets tilapia 1/4 teaspoon seafood seasoning 2 teaspoons butter 1 clove garlic, minced 1 lemon, sliced 1 (16 ounce) package frozen cauliflower with broccoli and red pepper salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat.

Toss potato wedges, olive oil, herbes de Provence, paprika, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl until potatoes are evenly coated.

Place wedges on their sides onto the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Flip potatoes onto their other sides; return to oven and cook until crusty and golden brown, about 20 minutes more.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees F). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Place tilapia fillets in the bottom of the baking dish and season with seafood seasoning. Melt butter with garlic in a small bowl in the microwave, about 30 seconds on medium; pour over fish. Top each fillet with a slice or two of lemon. Arrange the frozen mixed vegetables around the fish, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Bake in the preheated oven until vegetables are tender and fish flakes easily with a fork, 25 to 30 minutes.

42 | February 2019

Pineapple Chicken Tenders Ingredients 1 cup pineapple juice 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/3 cup light soy sauce 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins or strips skewers

Directions In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Remove from heat just before the mixture comes to a boil.

Place chicken tenders in a medium bowl. Cover with the pineapple marinade, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat grill for medium heat.

Thread chicken lengthwise onto wooden skewers.

Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill chicken tenders 5 minutes per side, or until juices run clear. They cook quickly, so watch them closely.

Source: AllRecipes.com

h e a lt h y r e c i p e s Use these recipes as a spring board for a healthy weekly menu.

Pasta with Scallops, Zucchini and Tomatoes Ingredients 1 pound dry fettuccine pasta 1/4 cup olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 zucchinis, diced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup chopped fresh basil 4 roma (plum) tomatoes, chopped 1 pound bay scallops 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Sarah’s Applesauce

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Ingredients

Ingredients

4 apples - peeled, cored and chopped 3/4 cup water 1/4 cup white sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamonAdd all ingredients to list

1 (6 pound) bone-in turkey breast 1 (1 ounce) envelope dry onion soup mix

Directions

In a saucepan, combine apples, water, sugar, and cinnamon. Cover, and cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, or until apples are soft.

Allow to cool, then mash with a fork or potato masher.

Directions

In a large pot with boiling salted water cook pasta until al dente. Drain.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet heat oil, add garlic and cook until tender. Add the zucchini, salt, red pepper flakes, dried basil (if using) and saute for 10 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes, bay scallops, and fresh basil (if using) and simmer for 5 minutes, or until scallops are opaque.

Pour sauce over cooked pasta and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

No rush, no fuss, mid-week meals to satisfy all.

Directions Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry.

Cut off any excess skin, but leave the skin covering the breast. Rub onion soup mix all over outside of the turkey and under the skin.

Place in a slow cooker. Cover, and cook on High for 1 hour, then set to Low, and cook for 7 hours.

y h lt a e H Simple

+

Connection Magazine | 43

cutest kid

c o n g r a t u l a t i o n s

Ashlynn is the 18-month-old daughter of Jason and Mindy Townsend of Washburn.

nn y l h As d n e s Town

Cutest Kid

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.

44 | February 2019

pa r e n t i n g c o l u m n

12 Birthday Party Ideas

One for Each Month of the Year

S

o what makes a good birthday party, well, actually good? Depending on what your child is into these days will most likely determine what theme you go with. With Pinterest just a few clicks away, it’s easy to find all sorts of inspirational birthday boards to get those creative juices flowing. I don’t know about you but even when I have an idea in mind of what type of party I want to throw, I can get easily overwhelmed with all of the possibilities. With the help of some fellow mom friends, I’ve put together a list of 12 different ideas

for every month of the year.

January – Depending on where you live, it may still be pretty cold this month. Throwing your little one a Cinderella Party is the perfect way to incorporate all of the fun while staying inside where it’s warm. Help your daughter find less-than-perfect clothes around the house so she can dress up in ‘rags’ alongside her friends who will also be wearing similar things. Since this is a Cinderella Party, each girl will put on a costume dress and have their hair done. Set up a walkway in one of your hallways, complete with a red carpet (long piece of red fabric).

Once each girl has had a chance to walk the red carpet feeling all fancy, help them decorate their glass slippers (flip-flops) to take home with them instead of a goody bag.

February

makes me think of Valentine’s Day which makes me think of baking. Why not throw your birthday child an Apron Party? You can find plain aprons online as well as fabric paint and embellishments.

Each birthday attendee can decorate their apron and then decorate their own cupcake.

Meagan Ruffing loves anything crafty so this list of 12 birthday party ideas is right up her alley. Visit her Facebook page, writermeaganruffing, where she posts more mom-friendly ideas for everything kid-related.

Connection Magazine | 45

March

– Local mom friend Ashley Williams threw her daughter Lola one of the neatest Art Parties I’ve ever seen. She took plastic paint palettes, stuck a cupcake on each one and used the paint holders as topping holders. She also picked up a small canvas for each child and had them tape off different parts of their project to allow for an abstract-looking painting. This birthday idea is perfect for the art lover in your family.

April

– What better time to throw a Golf-Themed Party than during the month of April when the Masters is going on! Mandy Whannell threw her son a Holein-One Golfing Party and served Master’s themed food like egg sandwiches, chips, green jacket grapes, and cookies that looked like golf balls. She and her husband turned their garage into a mini golf course with a place for each child to try out their golf swing on any of the four holes.

June is the perfect time to cool

September – If you’re feel-

off with a Waterslide Party in your backyard. Check out a local rental place for your one-stop-shop on where to find the perfect inflatable for your birthday child. It’s fun, easy, and a great way to incorporate water and lots of laughs.

ing super inspired and have some extra time on your hands, you can turn your garage into an American Warrior obstacle course for the ninja-loving child in your family. Pool noodles and hula hoops make great props for any kind of contest.

July – What could be better than a

October – If your child is look-

party under the stars? An Overnight Campout would be the perfect birthday party for an older child. Set up a few tents outside and spend the night roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and going on a scavenger hunt.

ing for an opportunity to donate their gifts instead of receiving them, an Operation Christmas Child Box Party is a neat way to do that. Each person brings items for the shoeboxes instead of gifts for the birthday child. Make it fun by having a contest to see who can assemble their shoebox the fastest. Once all of the boxes are put together, let the kids sort their items and start packing! Boxes usually get mailed out in November so doing this in October would give you a head start.

November

Location = Possibility May – The same mom who threw the Golf Party said when she approached her local fire department about hosting her son’s birthday, they welcomed the idea.

Be sure to check with your local fire department before making plans but it sounds like such a neat idea that it is worth looking into.

Mandy says the fire department had set up an area where their jackets, helmets, and hoses were lined up for the kids to take pictures in front of. She ordered a cake and plopped a fire truck right on top to go with the theme. “The kids loved climbing through firetrucks, spraying hoses, and sliding down the fire pole,” says Mandy.

46 | February 2019

August – A Wet and Wild Birthday Party decked out with cowboy hats and water guns sounds like a great way to end the summer with a bang while celebrating your child.

Keep with the western theme and fill tin pails up with cowboy-inspired treats like pigs in a blanket and trail mix. Play pin the mustache on the cowboy and send your child’s friends home with lasso-inspired (red twizzlers) treats.

– What kid doesn’t like doing their own experiments? Throw your child a Mad Scientist Birthday Party by turning your garage into a laboratory with science-inspired decorations and a fog machine.

Put together a couple of simple recipes for each child to do a hands-on experiment that will leave them ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the wonder of it all. Slime is always a popular go-to as well as anything that expands and shoots out of a bottle. Get those creative juices flowing!

December

– It’s usually cold this month so staying somewhere indoors like at a movie theatre that has an arcade would be a great way to celebrate your child’s birthday.

Call your local theatre and see if they offer some sort of birthday package. This would be a neat idea for a 10-year-old who wanted to invite two or three friends.

r e s c u e d , m y f av o r i t e b r e e d

Happy homes for furry friends

S

helter Volunteers, Staff and board members perform a lot of different jobs. One day late last December, our Director had just finished 16 adoptions in 3 or 4 days and needed a little break to catch up on paperwork, so I offered to try to answer some Facebook questions from home and I was fortunate to became part of a wonderful update to an adoption that started 7 years ago.

In 2012, the adoption center was only a gleam in the eyes of the Faithful Friends Board and all animals were fostered. The adopter contacted us because she was interested in getting some puppy pictures of her dog, Grace, who was an alumni of the FFAA foster program.

Christa stout

I sighed and wrote her back that we may not be able to find much because her adoption was so long ago and during a systems upgrade some of the older pictures were lost. I contacted our President, and everyone put their heads together, found who had fostered Grace, and even got some pictures from the still proud foster mom. We shared these pictures and although they were not puppy pictures, it became like a family reunion. Everyone remembered Grace and her adoption, and there were many smiles looking at the shared pictures, exchanging messages and talking about it.

Here are two of these pictures, one before adoption and the last, one of her current pictures. Her mom says she is doing great and still acts like she is 2! What a wonderful story.

A not so happy fact in shelter life is that there are dogs and cats who are being overlooked when it comes to adoptions. One of the reasons is due to a perceived disability.

These disabilities may be hearing or seeing impaired, loss of a limb or they may be very timid because of a previous trauma. These animals make the best pets and if you could ask them what they think of their disabilities, they would probably answer ‘What Disabilities?’ And it would be true, animals seem to accept the fact that they may only have three legs instead of four, or that they are blind. We have had deaf animals that were taught sign language and lived a wonderful life.

Watching these pets run around the shelter, entering or leaving their kennel, or hanging onto their favorite toy for dear life, you would not realize they are disabled.

WONDERFUL UPDATE: Of the 12 pets that have been featured in this column, 10 have found their furever homes. Guinness (dog) and Aries (cat) are still waiting for their own families.

As always, here are some more adoptable animals at Faithful Friends:

o'malley O'Malley: with him, love is the word. He is smart, great with kids, other dogs and humans.

Children come to read to him and he is our representative at shelter functions. He is between small and medium, with a big dog attitude. He came to the shelter as a stray and would love a little training, but oh the rewards!

ariel

Ariel, our observer, a beautiful 4 year old cat who is calm and loves to watch all the other cats and especially the kittens.

She loves to be loved on and she is unique in one respect, we recently found out she loves a bath!

Connection Magazine | 47

I was one of those people who didn’t believe it was possible for these ‘poor’ dogs and cats to live a happy life. I also didn’t realize exactly what it meant to be blind. My daughter has six dogs, one of them contracted a fungal disease that is common near running water and is not normally serious, unfortunately a broken toenail allowed it to enter Snickers’ bloodstream where it settled in her eyes and became very painful. After different treatments without improvement, the vet recommended that her eyes be removed. My daughter, heartbroken, did what needed to be done and agreed to the surgery. Snickers was about 3 at the time, she is now 11. She has learned commands that warn her of obstacles and is very cognizant of her surroundings. She even goes on walks with her mom and the rest of the dogs, up and down hills and through forests. She has developed an unbelievable sense of her surroundings, it is almost like she has built in radar.

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48 | February 2019

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It is the humans like me who are misguided. I felt like a fool one night when I went to let my daughter’s dogs out for a potty break. The routine is they go outside, run around a little and then come back in the house to receive a treat.

Snickers is always right there to get her treat, she then trots off to her bed with her chewy stick. I usually waited for her to make it to her bed before I turned out the light. That night, I was hurrying and turned the light off immediately after I gave her the treat, and the thought came like lightning, oops, she can’t see to get back to her bed! I stopped, turned the light back on, then I realized that lights on or off, she is always in darkness. It was a sad realization, but guess what, Snickers made it to her bed, light or not.

She, like many animals, is a phenomenon. Thanks Snickers, for teaching me a lesson.

For more information on any of the Faithful Friends animals or to volunteer, go to www.FFAANeosho.org, contact us on Facebook, or by calling the adoption center at 417.592.2512. We always need volunteers and we always have adoptable dogs and cats!

cutest pet

Cora is a 12 week old Great Pyrenees and Bernese Mountain dog, owned by Brittany Sutphin of Cassville

CORA

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 Connection Magazine | 49

connection on the go

Craig and Carolyn Burford, of Cassville, were in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, visiting their exchange student, Ferdy, for his college graduation.

A family trip, compliments of Don and Janie Bates, was enjoyed in July to Fort Morgan, Alabama. In the back row, from left: Jonny, Jane and Margarat Atkinson; Julie, Jeff and Miranda Abramovitz with Evelyn Atkinson; Janell Marbut; Kenny Fertig; Janie and Don Bates with Walter and Owen Atkinson in front holding the July issue of Connection.

Linda and Bruce Johnson, of Monett, enjoyed a trip to Rome, Italy in June 2018. They took Connection with them.

Cassville native, Steven Cupps, and his bride, Lauren Cupps, took Connection to Sydney Harbor across from the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

These four ladies enjoyed a 7 night cruise with Connection on board the RCL Oasis of The Seas.

Pictured are: Selma Kinser of Arkansas; Vickie McDougle of Shell Knob; Barbara McDougle Paulus of Purdy; and Connie Rackley of Arkansas. They enjoyed the Rum Cake Factory on Nassau Bahamas 50 | February 2019

f e b r u a r y 2019 C a l e n d a r Feb. 2 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 417-662-3612.

Feb. 20 Live Entertainment will be by the Shell Knob Strings at the Cassville Senior Center from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Feb. 4 Notary Services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center at 9:00 a.m.

Feb. 6 Blood pressure check at Cassville Senior Center at 10:30 a.m.

Feb. 7 Benefit Counseling by appointment at the Cassville Senior Center. Call 847-4510.

Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center at 9:00 a.m.

Feb. 9 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 417-662-3612.

Feb. 13 Grace Foot Care by appointment at Cassville Senior Center. Call 8474510.

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

Feb. 14 Special Valentine’s Day Lunch at the Cassville Senior Center.

Feb. 16 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 417-6623612.

Feb. 21 The Pierce City Senior Center Dance will hold its regular monthly dance.

Feb. 22 Monthly Birthday Lunch at the Cassville Senior Center begins at 11 a.m.

Feb. 23 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 417-6623612.

Feb. 25 Nell’s Nails begins at 9 a.m. Call 417-858-6952 for an appointment.

Walk-ins are welcome at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob.

Feb. 26 Grace Health Services (feet) at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob. Call for an appointment 417-858-6952.

Feb. 27 Nell’s Nails begins at 9 a.m. Call 8474510 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome at the Cassville Senior Center.

a d v e r t i s e r 's i n d e x Acambaro................................................................40 Advanced Plumbing & Septic Systems.............38 Aire Serv..................................................................59 A-List Properties...................................................38 Allstate Insurance.................................................39 Barry Lawrence Regional Library......................... 2 Bruner Pharmacy...................................................26 Bull's Eye Power Washing...................................38 Burrus Jewelers....................................................... 4 Carey's Cassville Florist.......................................34 Carson Construction............................................39 Civil War Ranch....................................................... 8 Coast to Coast.......................................................37 Coldwell Banker.............................................36, 38 Community National Bank............................. 7, 39 Cox Medical Centers............................................60 Crane Family Dentistry........................................35 Diet Center.............................................................16 Doug's Pro Lube....................................................16 Edward Jones........................................................... 3 First State Bank of Purdy....................................26 Flying V Mercantile...............................................28 Fohn Funeral Home..............................................20 Four Seasons Real Estate....................................24 Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri.................. 8 Friendly Tire............................................................48 Guanajuato.............................................................24 Honey Bluff Shenanigans....................................20 Julie Lee Photography............................................ 7 K&K Insurance.......................................................37 Ken's Collision Center..........................................40 Kiddie City..............................................................40 Lackey Body Works..............................................35 Les Jacobs...............................................................51 Lil Boom Town Event............................................28 Mattax Neu Prater Eye Center...........................31 Monett Chamber of Commerce.........................20 Monett Rental & Sales.........................................37 Ozark Methodist Manor......................................35 Peppers and Co....................................................... 4 Race Brothers........................................................59 Re/Max Properties...............................................39 Riehn, J. Michael; attorney..................................48 Scott Regional........................................................34 Security Bank of Southwest Missouri..............31 Shelter Insurance............................................. 7, 28 Shiners, LLC............................................................34 SomePlace Nice.....................................................16 TH Rogers Lumber Co..........................................36 The Coffee Café....................................................36 The Jane Store......................................................... 8 The Rusty Rabbitt & Emmet's Emporium........24 Tomblin's Jewelry..................................................31 Trogdon Marshall..................................................48 White's Insurance.................................................26 Whitley Pharmacy................................................... 4

Feb. 17 Ozark Festival Orchestra Soloist Showcase and Young Artists Concert, 3 p.m., Monett High School Performing Arts Center. $10 adults, $5 for senior citizens, students high school and younger admitted free.

Connection Magazine | 51

Support groups

Activities

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Celebrate Recovery

Aurora: Alcoholics Anonymous of Aurora

Cassville: Celebrate Recovery meets at the

meets at 8 p.m. at Aurora Community of Christ Church at 120 E. Elm every Tuesday and Thursday. Call 417-229-1237.

Cassville: Alcoholics Anonymous of Cassville meets at 8 p.m. at 1308 Harold Street in Cassville every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Call 417-847-3685.

Eagle Rock: Alcoholics Anonymous of Eagle Rock meets at 7 p.m. at 86 & P (Mitchel Plaza) every Monday and Wednesday.

Call 417-271-0434.

Marionville: Alcoholics Anonymous of Marionville meets at 8 p.m. on Highway 60 next to Dairy Queen every Sunday.

Call 417-463-7640.

Monett: Alcoholics Anonymous of Monett

meets at 7 p.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 405 Seventh Street, every Sunday and Wednesday. Call 417-489-5058.

Mt. Vernon: Alcoholics Anonymous of Mt. Vernon meets at 8 p.m. at the Christian Church on 703 Hickory every Monday.

Call 417-489-2413 or 417-440-1567.

Washburn: Narcotics Anonymous and

Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at the First Baptist Church Activity Center, 618 Second Street in Washburn.

417-489-7662.

Al-Anon Cassville: Al-Anon Family Group meets at

8 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Cassville every Thursday of each month.

This is for family or friends of alcoholics.

Caregiver Support Group Monett: Caregiver Support Group meets

at Oak Pointe of Monett from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at 1011 Old Airport Road in Monett. For more information, call Kathy 417-235-3500.

Shell Knob: The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care-

givers Support Group meets at the Central Crossing Senior Center, 20801 YY-15, the third Thursday of every month at 2 p.m.

The Caring People (Single Mothers)

Cassville: The Caring People, a Single

Mom’s Support Group, meets the second Monday of each month from 5:30-7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Cassville. This is jointly sponsored by The Caring People organization and First Baptist Church, Cassville. A meal and children’s activities are provided. The meeting is open to anyone. For more information, call 417-847-2965.

52 | February 2019

Family Life Center in Cassville every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Meeting at the same time is Celebration Station for children. This is for anyone with hurts, habit or hang-ups.

Golden: Celebrate Recovery meets at 7 p.m. at the Golden Baptist Church on Route J in Golden every Monday of each month.

Dinner is served at 6:15 p.m. This is for anyone with hurts, habit or hang-ups.

Monett: Celebrate Recovery meets at New Site Baptist Church, 1925 Farm Rd 1060 in Monett, on Thursdays. Doors open at 6 p.m. Childcare provided. The Landing, a Celebrate Recovery group for teens, meets at the same time and site.

Purdy: Celebrate Recovery meets at First Baptist Church, 301 Washington St. in Purdy at 10 a.m. on Mondays.

Seligman: Celebrate Recovery meets at

MOZark Fellowship, 28277 Frisco Street, every Wednesday. Food is served at 6 p.m., and the meeting begins at 7 p.m.

Diabetes Support Group Aurora: The Aurora Diabetes Support Group meets the third Wednesday of each month at Mercy Hospital in Aurora in the private dining room at 4-5 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Note: There is no meeting in December.

Grief Care Support Marionville: Grief Care Support, sponsored community support by Integrity Hospice, is held the last Thursday of every month at 10 a.m. in Marionville at Methodist Manor, 205 South College Ave. in the Alice Lounge. Care group is for anyone experiencing grief through loss.

Monett: The Grief Support Group meets the

first and third Tuesday of each month at Oak Pointe of Monett, 1011 Old Airport Road from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, call Kathy at 417-235-3500.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Monett: Vision of Hope Narcotics Anony-

mous group meets at 8 p.m. every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday in the upstairs of Monett Community Church, 2101 E. Cleveland.

Monett: Narcotics Anonymous meets at 8

p.m. the first Tuesday of every month in the basement of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, located at the corner of Seventh and Cale streets in Monett, 417-442-3706.

Washburn: Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at the First Baptist Church Activity Center, 618 Second Street in Washburn.

417-489-7662.

BINGO Every Thursday night BINGO at the smoke-free Shell Knob/Viola Community Building on Oak Ridge Drive, 1/2 mile south of the Shell Knob bridge beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Come early for the Horse Race, Pull Tabs and good food.

Oak Pointe Bridge Club Oak Pointe Bridge Club meets every Monday and Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Lunch can be purchased for $3.

Call 417-235-3500.

MONETT SENIOR CENTER Bingo every day at noon; Exercise every Monday at 9:45 a.m. Pitch every Tuesday and Thursday at 12:30; and Pinochle every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 12:30 p.m.

CASSVILLE SENIOR CENTER Dominoes every Tuesday and Friday at noon.

Exercise class every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10-11 a.m. Call 417-847-4510 for more information.

CENTRAL CROSSING SENIOR CENTER, SHELL KNOB, MO. Regular events: Wii Bowling every Wednesday, 12:45 to 3 p.m. New bowlers welcome.

Friends’ Bridge every Friday. Call Quita at 417-271-9803 for details.

Cards Galore every Friday with Pitch beginning at 9 a.m.

Domino Poker, every day from 12:45.

Qigong Exercise every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise class is held every Wednesday at 12:30 p.m.

Mah Jongg every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Line Dancing every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Quilting for Charity every Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Balance and Flexibility class is held every Monday from 9:30 to 10 a.m.

fa m i l i a r fa c e s

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The 34th annual Linn Thornton Memorial Christmas Dinner was held on Dec. 25 at the Monett United Methodist Church.

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1. Kenny Shryock,

Mike Coy 2. Kimberly Briggs,

Jerry Cargile 3. Mary Lowe,

Rhonda Adamson,

Brittany Adamson,

Pamela Sherman 4. Jordan Foster,

Christina Foster,

Olivia Kelly 5. Tim Curry,

Ashley Clayton,

Ashley Foster 6. Charity Raper,

Zeeshan Mian,

Braeden Raper 7. Erika Harris,

Wendee Wessell,

Ana Velasquez 8. Christopher Johnson,

Mark Johnson,

Kaylee Lester 9. Aidan, Cassie and

Addison Branch 10. Front: Leon and

Norma Hilton

Back: Bob and

Steve Hilton

10 Connection Magazine | 53

The Silver Bell Tea, held Dec. 4 in Shell Knob, raised a total of $2,100 to benefit local food pantries.

The event was hosted by the Alliance of Churches.

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Dottie Oakleaf and Sue Beck Terry Stracke and Joanne Hoehne Paula Andersen, Sheila Hasselbring and Sue King Becky Davison and Becky Caddel

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Brenda Schutt Bellringers Marily Droke, Sheri Futrell, Sloane Crawshaw, Gina Brandt, Jim Troyke, Nancy Adams, Rachelle Meats, Dixie Myer, Judy Malwitz, Shari Smith and Dolores Koappen

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7. Linelle Dillbeck, Sue King

and Dixie Meyer 8. Lynn and Dan Blanke 9. Liz Crouch, Ann Loeppke

and Dawn Loeppke 10. Kathy Patterson and Sandi Schulz 11. Kitchen staff Gloria Givens,

Betty Turner, Carol Stevens,

Dianne Brown, Jo Ann Hoehne,

Marilyn Atkinson and Crystal Stevens

54 | February 2019

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The Monett Senior Citizens Center held its Christmas dance on Dec. 3 at the Monett City Park Casino.

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Lloyd George, Judy Asay, Carolyn Stacy Naomi and Travis Farmer Floyd Harding, Vera Meese Kenny Martin, Kitty English Alan Bates, Patsy Meyer

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Larry Cole, Linda Parr Dale Daniels, Dick Townsend Lonnie and Dianna Gray, Erlene and Oddie Gideon

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8 Connection Magazine | 55

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3 Cassville Schools open house Dec. 7, 2018.

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3 56 | February 2019

Melissa and Lance Massey Netta and Jerry Ellis Lacey Johnson, 5 month old Senyah Johnson, and Beck Haynes Kyla Moore and Chad Johnson Marlee and Johnnie Edie

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The Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a tailgate party at Wildcat Stadium before the Football District Championship game on Nov. 9.

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pa r t i n g s h o t

"True love stories never have endings."

- Richard Bach

58 | February 2019

Photo by Lisa Craft

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