Connection September 2018

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September 2018

Meeting the King of Rock and Roll CORN MAZES & FALL FESTS ‘MIGHTY MATH MAN’ THE BIGGEST ODD JOBS A Magazine Dedicated to Southwest Missourians

Family Favorite Holiday dessert recipe contest submit your family’s favorite holiday dessert recipe and be a winner!!!

We will have a special holiday dessert recipe section featured in the November Connection Magazine. Submit your family secret dessert recipe or a special new recipe!

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First and Second place winners will be featured in our December Connection Magazine with a picture of them holding their winning dish and a short biography on how they got the recipe. We will narrow the entries to participate in a taste-testing event to determine the winners!!

Please include your name and number on your entry. Deadline for entries is Oct. 5. E-mail your recipe to monettcommunity@gmail.com; mail to Recipe Contest, P.O. Box 40, Monett MO 65708; or drop your entry off at The Monett Times, 505 E. Broadway in Monett or Cassville Democrat, 600 Main St. in Cassville.

Because of limited space in the magazine, selection will be limited to the first 20 entries so enter right away!!!

Employees or relatives of The Monett Times or Cassville Democrat are not eligible to participate.

2 | September 2018

www.edwardjones.com A magazine dedicated to Southwest Missourians

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

Call or visit your local financial advisor today.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Chuck Nickle Brad Stillwell Jamie Brownlee Amy Sampson

Jeramie Grosenbacher, CFP®

Shane A Boyd

Financial Advisor

Financial Advisor 103 East Olive, Aurora, MO 65605 417-678-0277 • 1-866-678-0277

802 West Street, Cassville, MO 65625 417-847-5238

DISTRIBUTION Greg Gilliam Kevin Funcannon

Nathan Roetto AAMS®

Jim Haston

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

Financial Advisor

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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.

Scott Young Financial Advisor

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Connection Magazine | 3

staff editorial

Labor Day lessons:

A worker’s way is paved with sweat and sacrifice

T

he first Monday in September is a holiday. A lot of people see it as the first holiday of the upcoming celebrations, which includes Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The holiday is Labor Day. Just like Memorial Day honoring our veterans of war, Labor Day is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well being of our country.

I can not speak for you, but I know I have been guilty of taking so much for granted. If I go to the store and they are out of something, I get annoyed because it is not convenient for me to go somewhere else. If I can’t get an appointment within the time frame that I need, I get annoyed that I have to wait three weeks longer than I want. It is hard for us to remember that everyone works hard and their schedules do not revolve around us as individuals. But the majority of us have to work, and we work hard to provide a service to others in many ways.

The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on a Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. In 1884, the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday, as originally proposed, and the Central Labor Union urged similar organizations in other cities to follow the example of New York and celebrate a “workingmen’s holiday” on that date. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and in 1885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country.

There used to be street parades to exhibit to the public the strength of the trade and labor organizations, followed by festivals for the recreation and

amusement of the workers and their families. There were speeches by prominent men and women as more emphasis was placed upon the significance of the holiday.

We may not have the parades, speeches or festivals but we have workers all around us that we can thank for what they contribute to our wellbeing.

We have the industrial community that gives us products that we can use either at our homes or businesses. We have our teachers that educate our children so they can have a better future. We have our complete medical staff that we depend on for our health priorities. We have the sanitation department that keeps our streets and residents free from trash.

Our farmers are working hard to provide us with food on our tables and right now with the drought situation hanging over their heads, this feat is not an easy one. There is so much to be thankful for on Labor Day including all of us who work to be able to buy the food that the farmers provide, place a roof over our heads, pay the utilities and sometimes enjoy the creature comforts of life.

So I guess what I am saying is that the next time we get aggravated because something is not on the shelf for us to buy, think about the worker who is laboring hard to keep up with the demand, or the factory worker that is working hard to process the items we need or the farmer that is fighting drought conditions so our needs can be met and be thankful for what we have, and don’t complain about what we do not have.

Lisa Craft

General Manager, Connection Magazine

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

4 | September 2018

Open September 22nd - November 3rd Campfires sites available for reservation call 417-498-6071.

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Connection Magazine | 5

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S E P T E M B E R 2018

10 | Exeter Corn Maze

Prepare to be thrilled with fall festivities set to wow Southwest Missouri over

16 | “You’ll Think of Me”

Lisa (Atwell) Craft shares her childhood experience of a summer with The King of Rock and Roll

28 | Marionville Applefest

Thirty years of festival fun celebrated with free carnival, car show, live entertainment and a multitude of vendors

35 | Evie of the market

Evie Chapman, A.K.A. “the corn girl”, expands her learning as a bonafide member of the Monett Farmers Market

41 | Mathematical success

Marney Nowland begins his 51st year teaching high school mathematics this fall and wouldn’t have it any other way

51 | The oddest and the best Rising to the challenge and getting the job done, regardless of obstacles, makes memorable lessons

Connection Magazine | 7

FREE

September 2018

Meeting the King of Rock and Roll CORN MAZES & FALL FESTS ‘MIGHTY MATH MAN’ THE BIGGEST ODD JOBS A MAgAzine DeD

icAteD to Sou thw

eSt MiSSouriAn

S

Cover Photo: Photograph scan of a Christmas card sent to the Atwell family from family friend, Elvis Presley.

Photos by Pete Rauch See more feature photos on page 32.

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

Email it to connection@monett-times.com

JOIN US ONLINE: Facebook.com/MyConnectionMo Twitter.com/MyConnection_Mo

8 | September 2018

Contents 9 Cutest Kid

23 Healthy Connection: Cooking with the kids 25 Parenting Column: Childhood obesity 32 Photo Feature 38 Cutest Pet

39 Rescued, My Favorite Breed 45 Recipes: Football fever 47 Housing Around

57 Community Calendar 59 Familiar Faces 66 Parting Shot

Presley Rhea Treadwell, 22 month old daughter of Buzz and Leah Treadwell of Cassville

cutest kid

Presley Rhea Treadwell 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.

Connection Magazine | 9

With ample parking and expanded activity areas, the Exeter Corn Maze this year will offer a little something for everyone. From navigating the maze puzzle to relaxing at one of 18 fire pits, hosting a youthful celebration on the birthday porch, taking a leisurely hay ride, zipping around a zig-zag go kart track or making s’mores over a campfire, guests will have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the fun-filled, fall-themed games and attractions.

Amazing adventure

awaits

Pick a pumpkin and have some fun this fall at the Exeter Corn Maze.

10 | September 2018

When the sun goes down, the fun picks up at the Exeter Corn Maze. Between the haunted barn and the haunted corn maze, the zombie paint ball ride and other fun-filled activities, this year the maze will have gas-powered go kart rides as well.

Exeter Corn Maze chocked full of fall-themed fun

W

ith summer winding down and classes set to resume in a few weeks, Robyn and Artie Cole are focusing their energies on completing some last-minute tasks and additions to the Exeter Corn Maze, which opens this year on Saturday, Sept. 8 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 4.

“We add new activities every year,” said Artie Cole, owner of the local attraction. “We change up some of the old activities, as well. We don’t want customers waiting to enjoy the activities, so this year. We’ve doubled the barn-

Story by Melonie Roberts

yard in size this year, so people aren’t so crowded. Our goal is to have our guests feel comfortable, like they are at home in their own backyards.”

Since Cole and his wife, Robyn, opened the corn maze in 2011, the attraction has more than doubled in size, and attendance.

“About 80 percent of our guests typically drive about an hour to get here,” Cole said. “But we’ve had some from as far away as Ft. Smith, Ark., Kansas City and Tulsa, Okla.”

In addition to the maze, the local attraction features giant pumpkin jumping pillows, corn

and pumpkin cannons, two 300foot zip lines, a barrel train, hay rides, gem mining, pedal karts, archery tag, hay rides, a petting zoo, paintball shoot-outs, a movie theater, a two-story haunted barn, a hay barn featuring hay mountains and indoor swings, zombie paintball rides, and the largest corn pit in the region. The corn maze itself goes “haunted” after 7 p.m.

“This year, one of the new attractions is the go karts on a zigzag track,” Cole said. “It’s a pretty good sized track, and the only one in the region. There are only three in the country that have go kart tracks.”

Connection Magazine | 11

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Jumping pumpkin pillows are just one of the many activities that will entertain young and old alike at the Exeter Corn Maze.

For the grown ups, there are 18 fire pits that can be reserved free of charge.

“We aren’t even open yet, and people are calling to reserve them,” said Robyn.

Concessions are available on site, and people can purchase s’mores kits from the new General Store or bring their own.

For tots celebrating another trip around the sun, there are birthday porches available for parties.

“There is plenty of parking available on a well-lit lot, and there is seating available throughout the barnyard,” Cole said. “At night, the property is well lit, for customer safety and convenience.”

In addition, there is a first aid station on site for immediate treatment of minor bumps and bruises that typically are earned through rambunctious play.

The couple spends almost an entire year planning for the fall event.

“We take a break for a couple of months during the winter, but then we start working

With the largest corn pit in the region, kiddos will have plenty of fun tunneling through and playing with the golden kernels at the Exeter Corn Maze.

Connection Magazine | 13

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on expansion plans, new attractions and refreshing some of the activities,” Cole said. “We plant the corn and pumpkins, and during drought years, we have to irrigate. Our crew spends an entire week before opening to decorate with pumpkins, corn stalk sheaths and mums. There are tons of photo opportunities throughout the barnyard and the maze.”

The hay rides and paintball trailers are wheelchair accessible for special needs children.

“We want everyone to be able to participate and enjoy themselves,” Cole said. “We are the only maze in the region to offer handicapped accommodations.”

Special events this year include: Grandparents Day, Sunday, Sept.

9; Special Needs Day, Tuesday, Sept. 18; Craft and Vendor Fair, Saturday, Sept. 22, featuring tethered hot air balloon rides, and Sunday, Sept. 23; Youth Harvest Day for church youth groups, Wednesday Oct. 3 and 10.

Field trips are available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by reservation only.

This year’s theme is “A tribute to Fall and Halloween.”

For more information, visit www.exetercornmaze.com or Exeter Corn Maze on Facebook. n

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Connection Magazine | 15

Graceland front gate with my mother Rayanne, my sister, Winetta and me

My Summer Vacation with Elvis

16 | September 2018

“What did you do on your summer vacation?”

This was one of the popular questions asked after summer break when I was attending elementary school. Most of the students were eager to share their experiences, which included camping, going to the beach, going to church camp or spending the summer with grandparents. I was hesitant to share my summer vacation story simply because I knew that most would not believe me. Actually, I did not feel comfortable sharing this until I was an adult.

But I am no longer a child, and when I share what I did during those summer months now… well let’s just say —it is what it is, and people can believe it or not.

I, Lisa Atwell-Craft, spent my summer vacation with Elvis Aaron Presley. Yes, that is correct, the King of Rock and Roll. The one-and-only Elvis Presley, and guess what —I couldn’t have cared less. In my defense, I was only 6 years old. As long as where we stayed had a pool, I was good.

Now, first of all, I was very hesitant to leave home for any length of time, because I had a pet chicken at the time and was not allowed to take it with me. I was very afraid that whoever watched over it would not do it correctly, but alas, I had to do what my parents said to do. My bags were packed, my farewells were given to my adorable pet chicken, and off we went to Memphis, Tennessee.

Lisa Atwell (bottom right) with her sister (above) waiting for The King’s autograph

Elvis presley signing autographs

Column by Lisa Craft | Photos provided courtesy

Connection Magazine | 17

My dad, Winnie, holding me, my sister, Winetta holding Gary’s poodle, Gary Pepper and my mom, Rayanne

My mother, Rayanne Atwell, was a diehard member of the Elvis Tankers Fan Club. She struck up a friendship with the president of the fan club, Gary Pepper, and his family. The first trip that we spent in Memphis, was mainly used getting to know the Peppers and getting clearance to spend time with Elvis. Gary’s father, Sterling Pepper, worked as a gate guard at Graceland and struck up a friendship with my dad, Winnie Atwell. Gary had cerebral palsy, and at my age, I didn’t know much about the disease, so I was very hesitant to associate with him very much. My friendship was with the family poodle. Elvis was very fond of the Pepper family and took care of the medical bills incurred by Gary’s disease. We were cleared to be part of the “Elvis group” but were told that we would have to go home and Gary Pepper, president of the Elvis Presley fan club 18 | September 2018

wait to be summoned. We had to be ready to return basically at a moment’s notice once Elvis returned to his home. Of course, we were summoned and promptly returned to Memphis, Tennessee. And yes, again my pet chicken was abandoned!

My sister had a different account of this trip, but she was 6 1/2 years older than I was, a pre-teen. Oh my, that was heavenly to travel with!! I really don’t think she wanted to be there anymore than I did, but I believe she appreciated it somewhat more.

Because of being so young, I sadly admit I do not recall a lot. I had to rely on my parents’ and sisters’ memories. I remember little things like the pool at the hotel, (yay!) the miniature poodle that belonged to Gary Pepper and the pink Jeep that we would ride in going to the main house at Graceland. Mainly, I remembered things that scared me. You see —if you wanted to spend time with Elvis, you had to sleep during the day and go out at night; He would rent different places and invite you to attend.

One night, Elvis rented the fairgrounds with only a choice few invited to attend. We were invited and the most impressive thing I remember, other than the blackness of the night, was his limousine. I walked around it and peeked in the windows. It was very long and at 6 years old it took me a while to walk around it —everything was inside, I believe all the comforts of home were included. My sister, Winetta, on the other hand, had more of an up close and personal experience with Elvis. There was a very tall, wooden cylinder-shaped roller coaster,

He told my parents that I was so cute, and he loved the name Lisa, and if he ever had a little girl he was going to name her Lisa. and he invited her to ride it with him.

She didn’t like roller coasters, but you couldn’t say no to Elvis, especially with your mother standing there, prodding you on. So, in the front car she went, with Elvis by her side, slowly but surely, all the way up and very fast coming down. When it stopped, she looked a bit green around the gills, and she heard Elvis say “Let’s go again,” and off they went. I don’t think she was real thrilled.

One evening, Elvis rented the movie theatre. We were again invited, and he had his group. He had a girl with him, and I always thought it was Debbie Reynolds, but my sister and I disagreed with who it was. The theatre was featuring a triple showing, and I fell asleep. Now, here is something that most people do not believe, but I can guarantee it did happen. When the movies were over, he picked me up and carried me out of the theatre. My

Connection Magazine | 19

mother told me that he kept kissing me on the cheek trying to wake me up, and I kept slapping at him. He told my parents that I was so cute, and he loved the name Lisa, and if he ever had a little girl he was going to name her Lisa. Go figure! He did have a girl, and he did name her Lisa!

I really don’t know if he remembered where he got the name but apparently it stuck.

Graceland was very big especially to a 6 year old. I remember riding in the pink Jeep with the fringe on top, up the path to the house. I recall standing in front of the two magnificent concrete lions for pictures —but that is it. Many have toured Graceland, but apparently I toured it with Elvis.

My sister told me that we received the grand tour from Elvis himself and was also shown the horse stables, the grounds and sat with him and had refreshments.

My dad told me at one time that he had a conversation with Elvis while there. Elvis told my dad that he would love to disguise himself someday and buy a beat up old pick up and travel

to the Ozarks and spend a week fishing with my dad. He was told he was more than welcome to do this, and we could probably arrange it so he was never recognized. It never happened, but I really truly believe that Elvis wanted to get away at times and just enjoy life in a normal way without the demands of his fans.

My sister, Winetta, my dad, Winnie, guard Sterling Pepper and I getting ready to ride the pink Jeep to the Elvis’s home

I find it very sad that I was so young when experiencing this. I would have loved to remember so much more. But there is a regret that even though I spent one-on-one time with the “King,” I never enjoyed seeing him perform in concert. I have very few pictures left. Many were lost over the years from moving. But the few memories that I have left, and the ones shared to me by my family, left me with a warm feeling about the man —a famous man that was kind, generous, and family oriented. He was also a man that wanted the time to experience simplicity, sitting on the banks of a river, holding a fishing pole and enjoying the peace and quiet of nature and God.

My sister, Winetta and I in front of Elvis’s home, Graceland 20 | September 2018

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healthy connection

Bring Kids in the Kitchen for a

Brighter Future

I

magine your day, when you get home from work and start cooking dinner. Who is helping you? Where are your kids? Your spouse? Your roommates? Cooking with your family or friends not only can cut down on cooking time and decrease stress; it also can bring you closer to your loved ones and teach new skills.

According to Ellyn Satter, an expert on children’s feeding, engaging children in the kitchen and eating around the table can help kids feel better about themselves, eat better, get along better with other people, and perform better in school. One study found that teenagers who ate two or less family dinners together were 2-3 times more likely to drink

alcohol, smoke cigarettes, or try marijuana.

Cooking is a skill that is not frequently taught in school curriculums, and is arguably one of the most important skills to know. While cooking, kids learn the importance of teamwork and rule following. Including your kids in the cooking process can teach them fine motor skills such as chopping and cutting, as well as problem solving.

Kids can practice their math and language skills by reading and adapting recipes. Furthermore, it can teach kids how to clean up after themselves.

Most importantly, involving your kids in the kitchen will teach them the importance of nutrition and will allow them to develop skills to pass on to their children. If you are struggling

with a picky eater, allow them to help prepare a meal that has new foods—it can spark their interest in trying new ones. It will also allow them to taste a variety of foods that they may have never wanted to try before. Research shows that if a child helps prepare a meal they are more apt to eat it.

Cooking is not just a learning experience for children—adults can learn, too! Cooking with your spouse, friends or family can help establish roles in your relationship and promote healthy family habits. Next time you find yourself alone in the kitchen cooking breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack, grab your family or friends and encourage them to help you.

Kylie beck is a student at Cox College in Springfield, Mo., pursing a master’s degree in Nutrition Diagnostics, as well as completing her dietetic internship.

She is originally from Lincoln, Nebraska, and is honored to have the opportunity to be in Missouri preparing to be a dietitian.

Connection Magazine | 23

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24 | September 2018

You know Ken’s Collision as The Area’s Finest Collision Repair and Glass Facility, and now Ken’s is proud to offer Professional Auto and Truck Detailing.

Our experts bring back that New Car Feeling inside and out, cleaning and polishing your vehicle with the same attention to detail that we give every car and truck we repair. Just another way we work for you, the customer, to make sure your car is fixed right, to Factory Specifications with the right parts, by highly trained technicians.

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parenting column

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

A

s a parent, it’s natural to keep an eye out on our children’s weight but how do we know when we need to do more?

When is it time to call in the professionals? I sat down with registered dietician Donald Longley to find out how we can stop this epidemic in its tracks.

“When I sit down with families, I try to be empathetic,” explains Donald. “We’re all busy, but it’s important to start with one thing at a time. We’re trying to make a shift towards purposeful eating.”

Childhood obesity can be an overwhelming issue for families but with these top 10 tips from Donald, you’ll have an immediate answer to how you can help your children eat healthier and what you need to do to get your family back on track.

1)

Limit sugary drinks.

Liquids like juice and soda have a lot of added sugar.

Donald suggests going for something like water or even flavored water. “Add a couple of pieces of fresh fruit if your kids like colorful beverages.”

2)

Don’t be a distracted eater.

Too often, families are eating in front of the television or kids are playing with toys while they’re eating. The goal is to put things away or to the side when you’re eating. The focus should be on sitting down and focusing on what you’re doing. Distracted eating leads to overeating.

Eat at the table as a family.

3)

This is something America has moved away from. The days of sitting down in a traditional dining room with everyone talking to each other (without their cell phones) is long gone. Sure, some families still do this but the majority of us are scarfing down our meal to move on to the next task. Be intentional about setting the table,

getting your kids involved and getting to know one another. Try putting a bowl in the middle of the table with white strips of paper that have random questions on it that you have written out as a family at an earlier time.

This helps spark conversation while enjoying each other’s company.

4)

Make meals structured and on a schedule.

Kids excel when they have a schedule because they know what to expect. Meals are no different. Get your kids involved in the planning of what your menu will be for the week. They just might surprise you and throw in something unexpected like spaghetti tacos!

Connection Magazine | 25

5)

Limit grazing.

This tip goes hand-in-hand with making mealtime structured. If kids know they will eat breakfast, have a snack, lunch, have a snack, dinner, dessert, then they will become accustomed to following that same routine each day. Sure, things come up from time to time and sometimes you just have to go with the flow but for the most part, kids won’t graze if they know they’ll be eating dinner by a certain time. Kids are kids however, and sometimes they like to snack. If that’s the case, stock your fridge with healthy grab-and-go items like yogurt pouches, fresh fruit and cheese cubes.

Eat breakfast.

Breakfast sets the tone for the rest of the day. If your kids wake up and eat PopTarts, they’re more likely to reach for donuts for a snack and something sugary for lunch. Set them up for success by cooking them real food like eggs, bacon and sausage. If you’re on a time crunch in the morning like most families are, prepare your food beforehand so all you have to do is pop it in

the microwave or make overnight oats. Compromise and let your kids have PopTarts maybe once a week so everyone feels like they’re getting what they want.

Don’t tell kids they must clear their plates

(it’s the parents’ job to provide the food but the child’s job on how much they eat).

This is my favorite tip. As a parent who likes to make sure her kids are eating enough, I tend to get hung up on the idea that my kids need to clear their plates before they can leave the table, get up and play, or have dessert. Donald’s tip on letting the kids decide how much they need to eat is genius and one that you can start implementing today.

Have kids become part of the process

when making meals.

This is key to ensuring your kids stay interested in food.

The more you allow them to make their own decisions, the easier it is to help them make healthy ones. Not only does this give them a sense of independence about their food choices, it creates smart boundaries around educating them about food.

Parenting journalist Meagan Ruffing loves learning about new ways to help her family stay healthy. Visit www.meaganruffing.com to download your free menu planning worksheet.

26 | September 2018

Limit empty calorie foods.

Think about the foods that are at eye-level in the grocery store aisles. Sugary cereals with bright colors and well-known cartoon characters are there for a reason. Manufacturers want your kids to pick up their cereals because they know they’ll be excited but these are all just empty calorie foods. Donald suggests shopping on the outside of the store’s perimeter where you’re more apt to find healthier options.

Physical activity.

Kids needs to be outside where they can run around.

Extracurricular after-school sports are a great way to get your kids into something new and to help them stay active. If sports aren’t their thing, that’s okay. Go swimming as a family at a nearby recreational center or find something that your child does like such as horses and sign them up for horseback riding lessons. If money is an issue, a good ole’ game of tag with the neighborhood kids will do the trick.

Childhood obesity is a real thing. You can help get your family back on track by starting with one of these tips and going through the list. Eating healthy can be a fun thing and you never know, you might just end up loving your new lifestyle.

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Connection Magazine | 27

Applefest:

Bringing the past forward

There’s nothing like a bite of something cool on a warm evening, and Addison Packwood tickled her tongue with flavored ice at the 2014 Marionville’s Applefest. Addison is the daughter of Whitney Packwood, of Billings.

28 | September 2018

30th celebration of Marionville’s festival offers a time to reminisce and reconnect

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arionville’s Applefest will mark its 30th anniversary in 2018. The event will be held Sept.

21 and 22 in a town rich in history and heritage.

Let’s reminisce a bit. Marionville has always been noted for its apples. At one time there were approximately 2,500 acres of the delicious fruit in and around Marionville with up to 21 orchard owners over the years. Marionville at one time had been known as the Apple Capital of Missouri!

Now jump ahead to 1988. John Murphy, owner of Murphy’s Orchard, paid a visit to Flora Walker, owner of Hillbillies Gas Station. Murphy proceeded to tell Flora that other Missouri towns such as Seymour have an annual apple festival. Murphy suggested that since Marionville was so rich and abundant with apples, it should also hold a festival as it did many years ago to celebrate the apple harvest.

So, the Applefest Association was formed. Some of those instrumental in the beginning of Applefest were:

The Peters family has performed for 30 years at Applefest. This year may be their final appearance.

Flora Walker, John Murphy, Kathy Sanders, Rick and Jill Henry, Steve and Cindy Mooneyham, Kevin Wrinkle, Bud Head, Bob and Sarah Herndon, Joe and Catherine Thurman, Donna Gregory, Patty Scheffler, Betty Cook, Barbara Clinkenbeard, Terry Woodruff, Ruby Johnson, Dennis Harter and Mary Findley.

September of 1988 was the inaugural Applefest, under the direction of this committee. What a great success it was with approximately 10,000 in attendance. Through the years, Applefest has continued to provide fun-filled events such as the apple pie baking contest, apple pie eating contest, car

Charlotte Killingsworth, age 3, of Monett, standing next to mom Ciara Killingsworth, tried her hand at the dart throw booth at the 2014 Applefest, offered by the Wire Road Wranglers 4-H Chapter from Crane. Caleb Solis and his dad, Carlos Solis, are observing.

Story by Kathleen Urschel

Connection Magazine | 29

shows, parades, great local and out of area musical entertainment, etc. Besides the entertainment, the festival awards a scholarship every year to a senior from Marionville High School.

The scholarship is $500 per year for four years, providing the student carries a 3.0 grade point average.

Over the years the festival has introduced numerous contests revolving around the apple theme. Many have prized their triumphs in the apple pie-eating contest, Marionville Idol, Johnny Appleseed and the Snow White contest. All will be back this year. The Saturday evening pageant for girls is one of the biggest in the area, but this year will be held on Sept. 8 at the First Baptist Church in Marionville.

As recently as 2012, the number of participating vendors swelled to 137.

This year organizers plan to fulfill the dreams of children and parents alike by offering a free carnival. The association has partnered with The Party Station to bring Marionville an awesome experience designed to keep you having fun indefinitely, without having to dump your change buckets to do it.

Back this year by popular demand is the car show which is being sponsored by The Compound, Mayse Automotive, and Casey Customs. There will be no entry fee. Classes are: Best Paint, Gassed, Motorcycle, Coupe, Roadster, Low Rider, Rat Rod, Muscle Car, and Interior.

There will be dozens of crafters showing off their wares for show and sale, including woodcrafters — one all the way from Wisconsin — with beautiful handcrafted and custom picture frames, another with fall and winter decorations. A local vendor is bringing beautiful hand made stained glass pieces. Rumor has it he will have 30 | September 2018

Marionville’s mascot, the white squirrel, made an appearance as a float in the 2010 Applefest parade, made by the Fire chicks, the fire department’s Ladies Auxiliary.

white squirrel sun catchers for windows. Glasses and coffee cups decorated with apples and/or white squirrels are coming from another local crafter.

Also there will be baby items, household items, T-shirts and more.

Festival food will be available in abundance. You can choose from El Maya Mexican Restaurant, smoked

turkey legs served up by the city firefighters at the station on the corner of S. Central and Washington Street; ice cream made from a 1927 John Deere Engine, flavored coffee and panini, kettle corn, pork rinds, smoked ribs, apple desserts, hamburgers and hot dogs. There will also be funnel cakes, shaved ice, the food truck from Flat

The car show at the 2012 Applefest, a feature that will be back this year.

The Sexy Legs contest only for men is one of the regular features at Applefest.

Creek Resort and Mike’s Special Seasonings from Mississippi. Murphy’s Orchard will be back with its incomparable Apple Slush and other treats.

It’s not too late to build a float, or decide to take part in the parade on the 22nd. No entry fee or pre-registration is required. Everyone is welcome to join in, walk your dog, saddle up your horse, polish the ole car, decorate your bike, or whatever you choose.

Additional information is available by calling 417-230-4027 or online at marionvilleapplefest.com. n The Marionville Comet Band in the parade for the 2012 Applefest.

Connection Magazine | 31

photo feature Photos by Murray Bishoff

32 | September 2018

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34 | September 2018

Little farmer makes big waves

Evie Chapman is known as ‘the corn girl’

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hen it comes to work ethic, little Evie Chapman, 5, of rural Pierce City, has it in spades.

Evie first wanted to set up a lemonade stand in her front yard, an endeavor her mother, Melanie Chapman, had to discourage.

“She was begging to set up a lemonade stand,” Melanie said. “But we live so far out in the country, we would have had to call people to drive 15 miles for a cup of lemonade. It just wasn’t practical.”

But something came along that helped Evie realize her dream of starting her own “small” business—sweet corn ripening on the stalk and the opening of the Monett Farmers’ Market.

“She’d go out into the field and pick the corn with her dad,” said Melanie.

“We’d load up the corn and lemonade and head to the Farmers’ Market. It was fun for her.”

“I made lots of friends,” said Evie. “I put the money I made in my treasure box, and when I’m old, I’ll buy a truck.”

Evie had a toy cash register in which to keep her earnings.

“The register helped her learn to count and make change,” said Melanie. “She learned some valuable people skills, about working hard, and about making and saving money.

Story by Melonie Roberts

While running her sweet corn and lemonade stand at the Monett Farmers’ Market, Evie Chapman, 5, learned how to count out product, total up cost for the customer and how to correctly make change under the close supervision of her mother, Melanie Chapman.

Connection Magazine | 35

Evie Chapman, 5, was the youngest entrepreneur selling produce at the Monett Farmers’ Market this year. She sold sweet corn and lemonade until drought conditions dried up the supply of produce.

“She visited other vendors, and we traded corn for homemade bread and egg rolls,” said Melanie. “We had several people come to the market just for Evie’s corn. Some of the vendors started calling her ‘the corn girl.’”

The experience has been beneficial for Evie in other ways, as well.

“The one thing I really emphasize with my daughter is the appreciation of cultures, religions and races,” Melanie said. “I have been blessed through my education and career to study and live abroad in London and intern for CNN International and broadcasting both in radio and television in Springfield, Kansas City and Milwaukee. I was privileged to be introduced to so much and to so many people of all socioeconomics. I believe the [Farmers’ Market] is a fabulous way to bring so many local cultures together in one place. It’s pure enjoyment. It’s so important to me for my daughter.”

Due to weather conditions, the corn has been turned into silage for cattle and the field replanted in hopes of obtaining a fall harvest.

“We’re going to try another round of corn later in the season,” said Steve Chapman, Evie’s father. “We didn’t have a big window [for sweet corn] because it was so dry. Other farm fields in the area haven’t done well, either, because of the drought. The corn is really short and there isn’t a lot out there.”

Chapman has installed an irrigation system to assist in future sweet corn plots.

36 | September 2018

The new crop will mature enough for harvest in about 70 to 80 days, which puts “the corn girl” back in business at the Farmers’ Market in late September or early October.

“I think, for the fall market, we’ll be selling Evie’s sweet corn and apple cider,” Melanie said. “She’s looking forward to going back.”

The Monett Farmers’ Market is open from 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday. The market is held between May and October at the Jerry D. Hall Memorial Pavilion at the Glen and Sharon Garrett Park, located at 490 East Front Street in Monett. n

Evie Chapman, 5, a young entrepreneur at the Monett Farmers’ Market, samples some of the sweet corn she sells to customers, along with her signature lemonade.

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cutest pet

Camo Furry pet of

Kendale Packwood and Cody Bobski of Butterfield

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. Email your pet’s photo to: connection@monett-times.com Photos should be sent in the original JPG format at the highest resolution possible. Remember to include your pet’s name, city of residence and your contact information.

38 | September 2018

rescued, my favorite breed

Finding forever fur families

T

his month has been a very sad, but also a very uplifting month. Uplifting because Faithful Friends was instrumental in connecting a number of lost and found furbabies with their owners, and the number of adoptions were awesome. Sad, because we also had so many new pets, some were abandoned, or scared, some lost their owners due to illness or sudden death, and some dogs and cats are simply adventurous.

That brings up a good topic for this month. Please micro-chip your pets, it is inexpensive and almost the only sure way to identify lost or stolen pets. Once they are chipped, make sure you register them online with the company who issued the chip.

Having a chip without good contact information in many instances is like not having a chip.

Here are a couple of stories from our shelter life. A stray dog was brought to the Faithful Friends Adoption Center, and although she was chipped, there was no information on file with the micro-chip. We did contact the vet who implanted the chip, still no luck. When we

T.J. is a loving dog whose favorite pastime is to lounge in the sunlight and

be petted. He looks like he could have been a movie star in the ‘Little Rascals’.

A meet and greet with any current pets in the home is always necessary when adopting and he needs to remain on joint supplements for hip dysplasia. His ideal home would be one without stairs. Won’t you come meet this sweet guy?

posted her on Facebook and all of our Faithful Friends supporters shared the post, relatives of the family happened to see the post, and we were eventually able to reunite them.

Another happy ending occurred one day when we received a call from a St. Louis shelter that a dog that had been adopted from Faithful Friends had been surrendered to them. One of our board members (bless her doggy-loving soul) immediately jumped in her car and drove to St. Louis to bring the pup back. He was scared and needed some grooming, but otherwise healthy. He has been adopted

and is a happy dog in his new home.

On the cat side, we are literally overflowing with lovable and funny cats and kittens. The volunteers are in 7th Heaven, but the cats and kittens need their own homes.

A couple of months ago, someone left a momma cat and her days-old kittens in an empty rental house, in extremely hot weather, without food or water. We were able to take momma and her kittens into the center but for some time it was touch and go whether they would survive.

Thanks to some wonderful foster parents, they have all been adopted.

Christa stout

Connection Magazine | 39

Like most shelters, we are sometimes in the unfortunate position of having to turn down some good Samaritans who are rescuing cats and dogs that, for one reason or another they cannot keep. In situations like that our shelter, and most others, help where possible by publishing pictures on Facebook in hopes of uniting the lost with their parents. At times we are able to furnish some food until we have room in our intake area. We also keep a waiting list and notify the rescuers when space becomes available.

So, this is for all the people with a soft spot for animals, please consider:

1.

2.

Adopting – there are wonderful animals in all of the shelters that have been there too long and are patiently waiting for a home;

Volunteering – If you have a couple of hours a week or a month;

3.

Donating food or supplies, such as paper towels,

etc. (most shelters have a list of the items they constantly need),

4.

Donations of cash are always welcome. It is what keeps the shelters solvent and able to continue to rescue dogs and cats.

Kittens.

These are just a few of the kittens we have available for adoption. They have grown a little so that now they love to play with each other as well as with the volunteers.

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!

Harper came to the

center pregnant, promptly had 7 kittens and when we needed a momma for an abandoned kitten that was brought in, she made it her own too – we call her Super Momma. She is a sweet and loving cat who plays well with others. She enjoys meeting new people and especially children who will drag a toy.

40 | September 2018

‘Mighty Math Man’ by the numbers

T

his fall, Marney Nowland begins his 51st year of teaching mathematics.

These days he’s part of the staff at Berean Christian Academy in rural Monett. But he’s left his footprints across southwest Missouri.

Nowland taught Mike Henry and Tony Wormington how to write computer code. Both applied their knowledge into executive positions with Jack Henry and Associates. He developed the first computerized attendance program for Monett High School in the early 1970s for Principal David Sippy and Superintendent Ralph Scott.

In 1997, Nowland was even chosen as a potential candidate for the first teacher in space and underwent two weeks of training at the Space Academy in Alabama. He was chosen by the National Science Foundation for a tuition-free graduate program to complete his master’s degree at a time when America was afraid the Russians would outpace the U.S. Space Program, and having more people with math and computer training in the classroom was seen as a partial remedy.

Nowland taught computer programming to the faculty at Monett High School in the 1970s to faculty seeking to apply computer knowledge in the classroom, a full generation before the One-to-the-World initiative put laptops in every student’s hands.

Story by Murray Bishoff

Marney Nowland traces his journey as unstoppable math teacher

NASA patch, received from completing Teacher Training Workshop in 1997.

Connection Magazine | 41

TEACHER IN SPACE Nowland’s Teacher in Space patch from NASA. Nowland is pictured, back row right, with other participants in the NASA Educational Workshop for Mathematics Science and Technology Teachers.

“The question always was, ‘How am I going to use this programming to help my seventh-grade English or eighthgrade science class?” Nowland said.

“The answer is not always clear. Over time the application took care of itself.”

Math may seem like an odd calling for a teacher. It lacks the excitement of an adventure story, the romance of literature or the discovery of science. Yet Nowland saw all of that in his subject.

“Initially I wanted to be a physics teacher, so I could know how God thinks,” he said. “If you can understand electro-magnetism and the planets, you have a smidgeon of an idea how God put things together. I wanted to get married and thought if I get a math degree, I could get a job quicker. I found to be a physics major, you needed the same amount of math. A lot of things in physics are hard to explain. The math behind it is easier to explain.

“I found I really enjoy teaching mathematics—I feel I have a talent for it. I can appreciate the frustration that goes with some explanations. I’ve broken walls and thrown things through ceilings out of frustration. Some people 42 | September 2018

Students and faculty at Berean Christian Academy applauding Marney Nowland at the signing ceremony to commit to continued teaching in May. (below) Marney Nowland with Chief Soh-Cah-Toa.

are good scientists, but they can’t explain it well. I have a clarity, succinctness and an enthusiasm for the topic of mathematics. Math is the door to business, science and technology.�

Nowland was in the first graduating class at Crowder College in Neosho in 1966. He finished his teaching degree in 1968 and taught in Neosho the following year before coming to Monett High School for 36 years. He taught computer usage for teachers as an adjunct instructor for Crowder College beginning in the mid-1970s. He taught at the Scott Regional Technology Center from

2005 to 2009 as a math advisor and specialist. Then he took a math teaching job for grades seven through 12 at the Berean Christian Academy. He views it with no small irony that his present principal, Wyatt Howerton, is one of his former students.

Nowland does not say he knew he could teach when he started. Rather, he tells it in a story. “In 1975 at Monett High School, I proposed the idea to students and the administration that they could come in before school, during zero hour, and listen to a person talk about the most diffi-

Students and faculty at Berean Christian Academy applauding Marney Nowland at the signing ceremony to commit to continued teaching in May.

Connection Magazine | 43

cult topic in high school—calculus, and they would benefit. My salesmanship was that they showed up. I have lots of people who have become engineers, physicians and computer programmers.

All of them come back and say, ‘Thank you Mr. Nowland, for what you made clear.’”

A few of Nowland’s students, notably females, became math teachers. He observed teaching math skills becomes an asset a person can return to after being out of the workforce and starting a family.

“Teaching is an amplification of the teacher’s personae,” Nowland said.

“They find out something that works.

My biggest thing I can say is when kids say ‘Thank for for teaching us because it made the other math teaching palatable. It allowed us to succeed in math related courses,’ be it in tech school or grad school.”

Nowland’s teaching method is also unconventional. No textbooks. No homework, except two or three times a year.

“I simply have a worksheet each day for each students,” he said. “I share a topic. Students get a worksheet. The fast ones get it right away, and the fast help the slow. They can talk ‘student’ and I can’t. It’s been a long time since I was 16. It’s a team effort. They do the problems in class. Intensity is hot when students walk in. It stays that way the whole hour. I look for the lights to come on. Get ‘er done by the end of the hour.

It’s a disciplinary device. You can’t do it later. If you don’t finish, the following day is a new presentation.

“Tests or quizzes are nearly identical to the worksheets. You’re never going to be surprised with a test. It’s the same stuff we did on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Tests are samples from the different worksheets.”

Nowland also uses his own unique

memory devices. On his desk he has a carved American Indian made from cedar that he calls Chief Soh-Cah-Toa. The name is an acronym for basic trigonometry formulas. The first three letters “Soh” refer to “sign is the opposite of the hypotenuse,” and it goes on from there.

Again and again, Nowland’s students have recounted how the Chief helped them out on college tests.

Nowland finds the teaching environment at Berean Christian Academy especially conducive to learning. Students are there for different reasons—for the Christian environment, or because of bullying in other schools, or difficulty getting along. Parents shouldering the financial obligation to place their children in the school, combined with “a highly motivated teacher,” set in a small class of 15 or less, produces what Nowland refers to as the “sandwich effect,” squeezing students to perform... and it works.

At some point at Monett High School, a group of students dubbed Nowland “the Mighty Math Man,” “a compliment from a child,” he called it.

From there, the moniker appeared on a board one day, and as nicknames go, this one stuck, and it’s a name Nowland likes.

Though in his 70s, Nowland has no plans to stop teaching. Last spring a special ceremony was held in his honor at Berean Christian Academy, attended by his wife, Bessie, where Nowland signed a contract to teach for his 51st year.

“I still find it a rush,” he said. “I still find it fun. For me, it’s what I was led to do. I enjoy the time the Lord has allowed me to retain enough of my faculties that I can share mathematics.” n

“I still find it a rush. I still find it fun.”

- marney nowland

“The Mighty Math Man” 44 | September 2018

Football season is heating up in Southwest Missouri

recipes

Boilmaker Tailgate Chili ingredients 2 pounds ground beef chuck 1 pound bulk Italian sausage 3 (15 ounce) cans chili beans, drained 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans in spicy sauce 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with juice 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste 1 large yellow onion, chopped 3 stalks celery, chopped 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped 2 green chile peppers, seeded and chopped 1 tablespoon bacon bits 4 cubes beef bouillon 1/2 cup beer 1/4 cup chili powder 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon dried oregano 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce (e.g. Tabasco™) 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon white sugar 1 (10.5 ounce) bag corn chips such as Fritos® 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions • Heat a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Crumble the ground chuck and sausage into the hot pan, and cook until evenly browned. Drain off excess grease.

• Pour in the chili beans, spicy chili beans, diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Add the onion, celery, green and red bell peppers, chile peppers, bacon bits, bouillon, and beer. Season with chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, oregano, cumin, hot pepper sauce, basil, salt, pepper, cayenne, paprika, and sugar. Stir to blend, then cover and simmer over low heat for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

• After 2 hours, taste, and adjust salt, pepper, and chili powder if necessary. The longer the chili simmers, the better it will taste. Remove from heat and serve, or refrigerate, and serve the next day.

• To serve, ladle into bowls, and top with corn chips and shredded Cheddar cheese.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 600 calories; 30.1 g fat; 55.3 g carbohydrates; 30.8 g protein; 70 mg cholesterol; 2092 mg sodium.

Jet Swirl Pizza Appetizers Ingredients 1 (10 ounce) can refrigerated pizza crust dough 1/4 pound Genoa salami, thinly sliced 1/4 pound pepperoni sausage, sliced 1/4 pound provolone cheese, sliced 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 456 calories; 27.3 g fat; 27.6 g carbohydrates; 23.3 g protein; 70 mg cholesterol; 1432 mg sodium.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

• Roll pizza crust dough into an approximately 10x14 inch rectangle on the baking sheet. Layer with Genoa salami, pepperoni and provolone cheese. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese to within 1/2 inch from edges of the dough. Roll jelly roll style. Seal the edge with a fork.

• Bake in the preheated oven 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Slice into 1 inch pieces to serve.

Connection Magazine | 45

Healthier Taco Dip Ingredients 1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 (16 ounce) can fat-free refried beans

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 (16 ounce) package light sour cream

1 bunch chopped green onions

1 (8 ounce) package Neufchatel cheese, softened

1 small head iceberg lettuce, shredded

1 (16 ounce) jar salsa

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 large tomato, chopped

1 (6 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained

Nutrition Facts

Directions • Blend taco seasoning mix and refried beans in a bowl.

• Spread mixture onto a large serving platter. Mix sour cream and Neufchatel cheese in a bowl.

• Spread over refried beans.

• Top layers with salsa.

• Place a layer of tomato, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, green onions, and lettuce over salsa.

• Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese. Garnish with black olives.

Per Serving: 55 calories; 3.4 g fat; 3.7 g carbohydrates; 2.4 g protein; 11 mg cholesterol; 197 mg sodium.

Football Sunday Beer Cheese Soup Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons minced onion 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 659 calories; 48.1 g fat; 24.8 g carbohydrates; 26.3 g protein; 149 mg cholesterol; 685 mg sodium.

1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle light beer 1 3/4 cups chicken broth 1 teaspoon ground mustard 2 cups half-and-half cream 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 1/4 cup flour 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 cup water salt and pepper to taste

Directions • Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat; cook the onion and garlic in the butter until the onion is tender, about 5 minutes. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and beer; bring to a boil for 3 to 5 minutes. Stir the chicken broth and mustard.

Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the half-and-half while stirring.

• Toss together the shredded Cheddar cheese and flour in a bowl; add to the liquid mixture in small batches until melted.

• Whisk together the cornstarch and warm water in a small bowl; stir into the cheese mixture; season with salt and pepper. Heat and stir until thick; serve hot.

46 | September 2018

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 698 calories; 29 g fat; 62.8 g carbohydrates; 44.4 g protein; 126 mg cholesterol; 1452 mg sodium.

Ingredients 1 pound ground chicken 1/4 cup butter 1 cup cayenne pepper sauce (such as Frank’s® RedHot®) 1 (16 ounce) container whipped ricotta cheese cooking spray 1 (16 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells 1 (8 ounce) package shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground chicken in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease.

• Melt butter in the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir cayenne pepper sauce into the chicken mixture and remove from heat.

• Squeeze as much moisture from the ricotta cheese using a cheese cloth or paper towels; put drained cheese in a large bowl. Add chicken mixture to the cheese and stir. Refrigerate until completely chilled, 3 to 4 hours.

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Prepare a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

• Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells in the boiling water until cooked through but firm to the bite, about 10 minutes; drain. Rinse with cold water until no longer hot; drain.

• Spoon chicken mixture into cooked pasta shells and arrange into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend over the stuffed shells; season with salt and pepper.

• Bake in preheated oven until the cheese is slightly melted and the stuffing is hot in the middle, 15 to 20 minutes.

• Power washing • Soft washing

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‘Old House Redemption’

Craftsman details inside the historic Millsap home in Monett, recently renovated by the Huffmasters

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I love old houses. When I bought mine, it was an eyesore —its upper windows were escaping from their sockets, the wood siding (circa 1915) had long ago shed most of its paint, and a door opening onto the front porch hung sadly askew. Some people saw a house that needed bulldozed; I saw a house with a history (and gorgeous original woodwork), waiting to be rescued.

Gale Huffmaster can relate. He spotted the “For Sale” sign on the house at 406 Third Street in Monett, while out for his daily walk.

“When I was a boy, Mrs. Helen Millsap lived there. She paid me $2.00 a week to mow her lawn,” Huffmaster disclosed. “She and her husband Virgil owned a dry goods store on Broadway years ago, and were one of Monett’s prominent families.”

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48 | September 2018

Exterior of historic Millsap home in Monett, recently renovated by the Huffmasters

The past called him up the steps of the wide porch to peer through the windows of the front door. The house, constructed in 1905, still boasted features unique to the Craftsman-style homes of that era, including square wooden pillars separating the living area from the dining room, each one containing an inset light. The hardwood floor, with its two types of wood incorporated into an eye-catching pattern of concentric rectangles, was just as he remembered it from boyhood, although scuffed and dirty from years of wear.

Huffmaster knew immediately that this was a house he’d like to invest in, provided his wife Rose was in agreement.

“I was going to turn 80 on my next birthday, so my age was briefly a consideration,” he explained. “But I had never let it stop me from taking the plunge before. You can always get old.

It’s pretty easy. Just believe you’re old, then quit doing things. Every morning, I have to make the decision to get up, get out and get moving. It keeps me feeling younger.”

The move to purchase the home turned out to be a worthwhile one, both for the house and the Huffmasters.

“While we were working on it, we learned that it was one of the higher-end houses of its day. The adult grandchildren of Helen Millsap, visiting from Denver, Colorado, stopped in to check on our progress,” Huffmaster related. “They told us they called it ‘The Red House’ when they were kids. I couldn’t understand why, since the house was never the color red that I knew of. But, as Ann Roman (the granddaughter) explained, the house was built from redwood. It was used in the framing and for parts of the exterior siding.”

“We were told that the use of redwood kept insects out of the house,” Huffmaster continued. “And I believe it’s true. While we were working on it, we discovered no evidence of cockroaches or insects of any kind.”

As a team, the Huffmasters tackled a total home remodel, including tearing out most of the interior lath and plaster, and replacing it with sheet rock. The walls in the living room were the one exception.

“I didn’t want to take a chance on damaging the gorgeous baseboard and crown molding,” Huffmaster explained, “so we left the lath and plaster intact in that room.”

“Rose is the idea and design person,” Huffmaster related. “I follow through with the implementation. She came up with a plan for a new kitchen layout that opened it up and added more light.

We loved the way it turned out!”

Another important decision they made was to add a second bathroom, almost a necessity when selling a house in today’s market.

The Huffmasters are practical enough to know their limits. They outsourced the big jobs to those younger and stronger, and, in some ways, more experienced than themselves, including the installation of new windows, siding, roof and plumbing.

Specialists were also called in for some of the more intricate projects.

Rose procured the services of Hidden Acres Antiques in Joplin to clean the ornate dining room chandelier, which they were told had been imported from Spain. The leaded glass doors of the built-in china cabinets in the dining room were meticulously restored by Bob Holmes of Monett. And, with much of the interior finish work, they received a hand from Ken Fertig, who himself

once played a part in constructing many of the houses in Monett.

Wilson & Sons Hardwood Flooring, from the Verona area, was hired for the refinishing of the original wood flooring: what would prove to be the pièce de résistance of the home’s interior.

“Seeing the floors refinished was the thing we’d been anticipating ever since we started this house project,” Huffmaster enthused, “but for obvious reasons, we had to wait until last on it. We were thrilled with the way they turned out! One thing we never figured out, though, was what kinds of wood were used for the flooring. We gathered a lot of opinions, but the only thing everyone agreed on was that oak was definitely not one of them.”

After nine months of labor amounting to a full-time job, the restoration of the house was completed. With the addition of a few modern conveniences, in some ways, it was better than it had been when it was new, and the Huffmasters experienced the satisfaction of once again imparting life to an historic home slipping toward its demise.

A few months have now passed and the Huffmasters have had time to catch their breaths. Although the house turned out to be every bit as nice as they’d envisioned, there were times when they had wondered if they’d taken on more than they could handle. When asked if he’d do it again, Gale Huffmaster hesitated only briefly.

“I’m always up for a challenge,” he replied. “Once you get this home renovation thing in your blood, you just can’t get it out. Maybe I’m not very smart, but yes, I’d probably do it again.”

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50 | September 2018

What was your oddest job?

Labor comes in all forms—paid, unpaid, unexpected, assigned by your spouse, terrifying and fun. When asked to recount their most unusual or memorable job experiences, 10 readers provided these insights:

Memorable experiences explore the labor spectrum

KC Caldwell of Monett recalled working for the post office in the early 1950s on the 8 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. shift. He did not consider his job that unusual, but it is one that no longer exists.

A World War II veteran, Caldwell, now 91, was hired to work at the Monett Post Office in 1951 when he was 25.

“They first hired 10-point veterans, then the 5-point veterans,” Caldwell recalled. “I was one of those, from World War II. I got married and went to work at the post office in the same year. When the passenger trains came in, there was a contractor, Ted Planchon, who would load the mail on his pickup and bring it up.”

Caldwell recalled trains would bring in around 10 pouches of mail a night. His shift would break down the contents, sorting it for further delivery by town or sending it on by a different train. Parcels had to be sorted into different sized bags—small, medium and large.

Prior to working the trains, Caldwell’s responsibility was to take all the mail dropped off at the post office and in the deposit boxes for the day sorted out by city routes and the rural star

Story by Murray Bishoff

Educator and occasional journalist

Kim McCully-Mobley, of Aurora,

KC Caldwell routes for the next day’s delivery.

“We had to have the mail put up by 11 p.m. if it was going to be delivered the next day,” Caldwell said.

The big deal on the night shift was handling the registered mail that came in by train. Caldwell had to be bonded to sign for the registered mail arriving and to prepare registered mail going out by train elsewhere.

After 20 years of working the night shift, Caldwell became a rural carrier and worked another 20 years on the road. He retired with 40 years experience in 1990.

“It was an interesting job,” he said.

“I’m probably the only one from that time left.”

has had a varied career in a number of fields. She offered several examples of unusual work experiences.

“It was 1981—Valentine’s Day—I was out on a date with my soon-to-be first husband when we hear sirens and pull over near downtown Aurora to see what was going on. I was about 19... almost 20, and was working part-time at the Aurora Advertiser for my brother, Randy Estes, as a reporter. I was also going to school at Missouri Southern and was about to graduate with a degree in journalism. We pulled over by the post office and someone told us the newspaper was on fire at 32 W. Olive; we sped down there, and I cried and took photos from the street as I watched the building I had worked in for about three years go up in flames.

A few days later found us setting up shop at a nearby storefront while we assessed damages. To avoid being considered unfair, my brother decided to lay me off to set an example for the short staff they were going to have to operate with for a few months. Sigh.

Soon, my boyfriend would be laid off by the railroad. So, we started out our married life unemployed. I was able Connection Magazine | 51

What was your oddest job?

to get a job at MWM Dexter Printing Company for a year before we would endure another round of layoffs.

“That made for some really crafty times; we would pick apples, pick strawberries, paint barns and houses and refinish furniture. My husband even painted a few tanks and towers.

I wasn’t much for climbing. I also cleaned houses, babysat and substitute taught. Those were some lean times, but they are also my favorite.

We learned a great deal about innovation, experience, connections and confidence. One time our friends entered us in a talent show at the Purdy Festival. We won the show by singing some gospel music, and they gave us $100 cash as the prize. We promptly took our friends to dinner at a nearby pizza place and splurged.

By 1983 I was working at the Lawrence County Record, which paved the way to the Marionville Free Press, which paved the way to The Monett Times and then back home to Aurora as newspaper editor in 1987. I held that post until 2004, when I began to teach full-time.

Steve Wise 52 | September 2018

“During that time at The Monett Times, we befriended former publisher Ken Meuser and his wife. They had us do some painting and refinishing work for them, and we had a whole new client base at that time.

“One time we were picking berries for the Garouttes at Verona. Somehow we managed to fight the heat, snakes, ticks, chiggers and humidity all day. We thought sure we had made tons of money. As we placed our flats of strawberries up on the counter we soon discovered we had picked in the patch that people were paying to pick in...as opposed to the patch that the Garouttes were paying people to pick.

As they told us how much we owed them for the berries and I burst into tears. They did feel bad and gave us some berries and about $15, which we promptly spent on medicine for sunburns and bug bites. Those strawberries sure were good, though.

“Nowadays, the school of hard knocks has taught me to never have all of my eggs in one basket. I have about five bosses, one full-time job and four part-time jobs and some freelancing

Miguel Cruz of Monett, 27, who works in Hispanic outreach for Drury University’s Monett campus, recalled a weekend’s trauma when he was about 18 in Springfield. Cruz joined a construction crew as a part-time job just for the weekend.

“It was winter,” Cruz recalled.

“It was snowing really bad. We were working on a roofing job on a house or a duplex. There were 10 of us. We looked at the roof and asked, ‘How are we supposed to do this?’

“What I remember most is the hot air that shot out of the back of the pneumatic staplers we were using was the only thing we had to warm our hands. I don’t remember how we got through the day, and I never had to go back to find out how the job turned out.”

Retired pharmacist Steve Wise, of Monett, recalled how his first summer job, between his freshman and sophomore years at Marionville High School, affected him.

“I was one of 12 or 15 kids helping on the school that summer,” Wise said.

“We were the slave labor. I worked with the janitor, Don Nelson. We stripped and refinished the gym floor, resurfaced the wood floors in the bathrooms, installed ceiling tile between wood strips on plastic that we stapled in place. He left me alone a lot because I’d stay at it till it was finished.”

Wise remembered helping to pick up rocks out of the new football stadium, now known as Bill Redus Field,

named for the principal at the time.

Wise knew his fellows on the work crew erected the goal posts on the field, but he doesn’t recall how they did it, a task he must have missed while focusing on interior tasks.

To get to work, Wise rode his bicycle into town, which was a mile or two from the country. He found the easy-going janitor a pleasant role model for a boss. He also worked during the year and one summer for Phil Erb at Erb’s Market in Marionville. The kind of labor he did in these jobs helped clarify what he wanted out of a life of labor.

“Let’s just say it wasn’t part of my career plan,” Wise said.

for myself that I do on the side. I have even sold Avon and Mary Kay! My mother always said I needed to stay busy to stay out of trouble. That’s what I still try to do. Hard work—in the end—usually does pay off.”

Many early experiences in a young person’s life make a major impact.

Jerry Sitton Jerry Sitton, of Monett, a past coach and insurance agent, recalled that some jobs come with their own locations. While serving as football coach at Bowling Green High School in Bowling Green, Missouri, Sitton’s dog, Pepper, died.

Brian Martin Brian Martin of Monett, a longtime Barry County sheriff’s deputy specializing for many years on child abuse cases, recalled that like Steve Wise, early experiences have a way of influencing one’s life choices.

“She was a little old dog, five or six years old,” Sitton said. “I had to bury her somewhere, so I buried her next to the goal post at the football field. I probably didn’t tell anybody. I did it in the middle of the day. As football coach, I had run of the place. The goal post served as a marker.”

Sitton would hold a number of different coaching jobs over the years, from Mighty Mites to the Springfield Rifles minor league football team.

“Somebody asked me one time what was the difference in coaching at those levels,” Sitton said. “The only difference is in the language. Everybody needs a hug, and everybody needs a kick in the pants. It’s all in how you do it.”

“I was in Clever visiting some friends from Jaycees,” Martin said.

“I was probably 24 at the time. I was selling insurance, and I had some time on my hands, so I made some cold calls. It didn’t take a long time to work a town that size.

“I knocked on a door and found it was a family of nudists, a mom, dad and three kids. I was kind of speechless.

I didn’t go in right away. They offered to put some clothes on, but I didn’t insist. I did sell them an accident policy. I don’t think I’d have opened the door if I didn’t have clothes on. They didn’t think much of it. Now that I’m working in law enforcement, I’d be a little concerned about the children if I ran into that now.”

Jim Haston Jim Haston of Monett, a representative for Edward Jones investments, pointed to his first job as well.

“My first real job was with my dad in a muffler shop,” Haston said. “My job was to learn how to bend custom tailpipes. I had to read a measuring tape, understanding degrees of bends, and follow directions.”

Haston did not recall any disasters in his job.

“I figured it out,” he said. “It wasn’t that hard to learn. I did it all through high school. The worst thing was getting cut on sharp metal edges. My dad was real good about safety. He’d say, ‘Now Jimmy, don’t grab the inside of the pipe.’ As a kid, sometimes you learn the hard way.”

“As a kid, sometimes you learn the hard way.”

- Jim Haston

Connection Magazine | 53

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Kami Bremer Willis of Monett, a mom, school speech pathologist in Cassville and 1980 Monett High School graduate, had a memorable encounter with labor at an even younger age. She was 12, and her brother, Kelly Bremer, was 11. Their dad, Ken Bremer, who ran Bremer Machine in Monett, came up with a job the kids could do.

Willis recalled EFCO Corporation was making windows for one of Donald Trump’s casinos. The aluminum brackets to hold the windows had been cut too long. The brackets were turned over to Bremer to trim a halfinch off each of them.

“We thought it would be great fun,” Willis said. “Dad set up the sheers. He took a piece of angle iron as a template. We could put in 12 at a time.

We knew we could run through this.”

The whole family worked in the machine shop, so it was not unusual for the kids to have a part in the business, though their part was usually cleaning up.

“Dad promised us money when we were done,” Willis said. “Every Saturday we sat there for hours...till we were sick of it. There were between 5,000 and 10,000 brackets in this barrel. No adult would do this job. It probably took us three weekends to do it. There was great joy when we reached the bottom.

“Mom and Dad said, ‘This is what an assembly line job is like. This is what you’re going to do if you don’t finish school.’ I knew after that I didn’t want to work in a factory.”

Don Weber of Monett, the senior Edward Jones investments representative in Monett, had a summer job with a similar impression between high school and college and the next summer as well. Weber worked in the dietary department at Cox Medical Center South in Springfield. His job

“You can always make most things bearable with the right attitude.”

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had two parts: setting up the trays and loading them with meals for delivery to patients, and cleaning up what came back to the kitchen.

“When we’d get trays back, in most cases, they were pretty nasty,” Weber said. “People would leave all kinds of disgusting things on trays—fluids, blood, they’d eat and gag and they’d throw up. You never knew when you took the lid off what you were going to find. We worked in a not well ventilated part of the kitchen, so you wanted to get rid of whatever you found as quickly as possible.”

For the safety of the staff, Weber and his group would wear gloves for the cleaning and sterilization process.

He recalled that was also a precaution to keep staff from wearing the stuff on their clothes for the rest of the day.

“Depending on the day, the person who ended up with the nastiest tray got to leave about 20 minutes earlier,” he said. “Some days we’d have to vote on the winner. There was also a money pool. Depending on how nasty it was, we’d kick in a couple bucks. When you got a real nasty one, it paid out.

“It was not a career you wanted to make. It kept you focused. It was a means to an end. But it showed you can always make most things bearable with the right attitude.”

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Connection Magazine | 55

What was your oddest job?

Larry Moennig, president of First State Bank of Purdy, grew up on a rural Pierce City farm that grew hay and crops. He was used to hard work.

“I’d buck bales of hay until the job was done,” Moennig recalled. “That’s just what you did on the farm. One year, it was toward the end of summer.

I was either a teenager or in my early 20s. The harvest haying was done, and I needed a job to finish the summer. I applied to G&R Machine in Pierce City to see if they had any work I could do for four to six weeks.”

G&R Machine, owned by Glen Garrett and Bill Roller of Purdy, manufactured custom metal parts. Much of their business came from orders from the U.S. Military.

Moennig received a job offer, for either the second or third shift, later in the day than young people are used to working. Nonetheless, it was employment and he needed it.

“I went in for the first day,” Moennig recalled. “The ‘G’ in G&R—Glen Garrett—showed me the job.”

The project was making magnesium shells for military fire bombs. Each metal casing went through a two-step process on two separate machines, going through the hands of two people, reaming the piece in two separate processes. The second person, which was Moennig, depended on the pace set by the first person.

“Glen stood at his machine, ran his part then threw it in a box for me,” Moennig recalled. “He was very fast. I was a farm boy. I was not going to let anyone show me up. We worked for two hours. Neither of us got ahead of the other. We were very busy. He worked very hard, then he went on to another job. Another guy came after him and kept working with me. He wasn’t nearly as fast.

“I felt Glen was testing me out. I felt I earned the job after two hours. I

56 | September 2018

showed I could do whatever he asked.

I worked there for six weeks. I relayed much of my work ethic to my parents, who showed me you go to work no matter what, hot, dry or whatever.”

Years later Moennig had a chance to work for Garrett again at the bank. It was years after that before Moennig recounted the story of their first meeting to Garrett, who had by then forgotten it.

“I look back on it now as a valuable lesson,” Moennig said. “The moral of the story is show up every day. Do what you’re asked to do and mind your own business. That’s a very valid philosophy.”

As author of this piece, I, Murray Bishoff, will end this story with a personal recollection. When I worked at Prevue Magazine in Reading, Penn., in the mid-1980s, the city introduced a clean-up day, much like the one Monett offers. I worked in a three-story 1890s-vintage row house that was packed with paper products sold by mail order, and other sundries that had nowhere else to go. My boss told me I could haul what I could to the curb for disposal.

For a while I had had my eye on an old hot water heater stored in the basement, standing near the heater currently in use. I had no idea why it was there, and considered it prime material for the clean-up. So that Friday evening, with pick-up on Saturday morning, I put a bear hug around this rusted old water heater and prepared to drag it from one end of the basement to the other, about 150 feet or so, and up the front staircase to the street.

I didn’t know the heater was propped on three legs that fell to the floor as soon as I picked it up. I also didn’t know it was still full of water, which splashed in my face. In the process of trying to move it and turn, my

glasses flew off. So there I was, practically blind, no one else around, surrounded by stacks of paper inventory that could all be ruined if that heater spilled, unable to set the metal cylinder down because the legs were gone and unable to hold it up because of the enormous weight.

I recall pausing, desperately contemplating my limited options. Then I heaved the cylinder against an adjacent stack of boxes and managed to prop it up. I couldn’t let go of it to find a bucket because it wouldn’t stand on its own.

I finally decided to take my chances, secured my grip and somehow managed to drag it upright about 10 feet to a floor drain. Once there, I gradually tipped the heater until I got it on its side and drained out all the water, dark brown from rust. After I got the beast on the floor, I went back and rooted around until I could find my glasses.

Few times in my life have I been more pleased than when I finally laid the empty heater down on the sidewalk outside. I seem to recall it wasn’t light, even when empty. I tried to explain to my boss what I’d gone through the next day, but he didn’t seem to grasp my peril. He was more curious why I chose to haul the heater away in the first place.

But I knew.

My only regret was not being on the sidewalk to watch the city workers hoist my burden off to the oblivion it so richly deserved.

Marray Bishoff

September 2018 Sept. 1 The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m.

Admission is $4 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share.

No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417-662-3612.

Sept. 3 Notary Services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sept. 5 Blood Pressure Check at 10:30 a.m. at Central Crossing Senior Center, Shell Knob.

Blood Pressure Check at Cassville Senior Center at 10:30 a.m.

Sept 6 Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center at 9:00 a.m.

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

Sept. 7 The Cassville Chamber of Commerce will hold the First Friday Coffee at Dr. Roark’s Office from 8 to 8:45 a.m.

Sept. 8 The Exeter Corn Maze opens to the public and will continue through Nov. 4.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m.

Admission is $4 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share.

No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417-662-3612.

Sept. 10 Free Breakfast at the Cassville Senior Center, 8-9:30 a.m.

Sept. 12 Grace Foot Care by appointment at Cassville Senior Center. Call 8474510.

Sept. 13 The Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob will feature a Fall Prevention speaker at 11:45 a.m.

Sept. 14 The Shakin’ in the Shell Fest will be held Sept. 14 and 15 in the Shell Knob Chamber Park, Friday evening beginning at 5 p.m. and Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. featuring plenty of activities for the whole family.

Sept. 15 Jammin’ at Jolly Mill Concert in the Park will be held at the Jolly Mill Park located near Pierce City. The Mark Chapman Band will be the headline act starting at 6 p.m.

The 29th Annual Classic & Custom Car Show in the Shell Knob Chamber Park 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m.

Admission is $4 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share.

No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417-662-3612.

community calendar A Craft and Vendor Fair will be held at the Exeter Corn Maze on the Artie Cole farm near Exeter, featuring tethered hot air balloon rides, among other things.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m.

Admission is $4 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share.

No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417-662-3612.

Sept. 24 Free Breakfast at the Cassville Senior Center, 8-9:30 a.m.

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.

Sept. 26 WIC will be at the Central Crossing Senior Center. Call 417-858-2114 for an appointment.

Sept. 17 Notary Services available at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

Sept. 18 Grace Health Services at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob.

Call for an appointment 417-8586952.

Sept. 27 The Pierce City Senior Center Dance will hold its regular monthly dance.

Sept. 19 Blood Pressure Check at 10:30 at Central Crossing Senior Center, Shell Knob.

Shell Knob Strings will be performing at the Cassville Senior Center during the lunchtime.

Sept. 20 Paint Class at the Cassville Senior Center at 9:00 a.m.

Shell Knob Strings will be performing at the Central Crossing Senior Center during the lunchtime.

Sept. 22 The 7th Annual Eagle Rock Car Show will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., E. Hwy 86, just south of Hwy. F. There will be judging, awards plus Motor Cycle Class. It’s free to the public. For more information call Mike, 620-615-1318, or eaglerockcarshow@gmail.com.

Sept. 28 Silver Discovery Senior Health Fair Expo will be held at the Clark Center-Compton Building, 411 3rd Street in Monett. In addition to valuable information, there will be assistance with advanced directives for health care; a Notary will be available. 8 a.m. to noon.

Sept. 29 The Washburn Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the 1st Annual Harvest Festival and Tractor Parade beginning at 10 a.m. (Rain date Oct. 6). There will be fun and food for the whole family.

For more information call 417-6712819 or 417- 846-3806.

The monthly Birthday Lunch will be served at the Cassville Senior Center 11a.m to 12:30 p.m.

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce will host a dance at the Seligman Chamber Event Center at 7 p.m. Admission is $4 each, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. No alcohol or smoking is allowed. For more information, call 417-662-3612.

Connection Magazine | 57

BINGO Held every Tuesday night beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Unit 137 in Mt. Vernon. A smoke-free room is available.

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; Pitch every Tuesday and Thursday at 12:30; and Pinochle every Monday and Friday at 12:30 p.m. Balance Class every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 a.m.

Support groups Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Aurora: Alcoholics Anonymous of Aurora

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 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: 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.

Wii Bowling is Wednesday 12:30 p.m.

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. 417-4897662.

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.

Cassville: Celebrate Recovery meets at the

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.

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)

Shell Knob: The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care-

Monett: Vision of Hope Narcotics Anony-

The Caring People

Monett: Narcotics Anonymous meets at 8

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

(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.

58 | September 2018

Celebrate Recovery

mous group meets at 8 p.m. every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday in the upstairs of Monett Community Church, 2101 E. Cleveland. 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. 417-4897662.

familiar faces

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The final of three First on Front Street concerts, hosted by First State Bank of Purdy in downtown Monett, was held on July 6 at the Glen and Sharon Garrett Park.

1. Tom and Barbara Carroll 2. Terry and Sarah LaSalle 3. Maggie Sisney, Chloey Marlin 4. Blaze, Matt, Issie and Rawn Batson 5. Kimber Goff, Alexis Courdin, Charlotte Brady 6. Teigan Cook, Carmen Fillinger 7. Michael Long, Richard Hall, Kathy Davis, Chris Davis 8. Zella Zahn, Carrie Zahn 9. Randy and Kristen Johnson 10. Lori, Jury and Richard Timbrook

10

Connection Magazine | 59

2

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The Monett Artists’ Guild presented “Godspell” at the Monett High School Performing Arts Center on July 13-15.

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(front) Haylie Borgmann, Addie Koss, Hannah Borgmann. (back) Lisa Koss Connie and Ann Kingrey Lucille Stoll and daughter Jaimie Overton Jakob and Taylor Bredeson, Michelle Pilant Gary and Kathy Huffaker Lori and Gary June

60 | September 2018

4

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7. JoAnne Koehler, Tricia Thomas,

Kathleen Yarco 8. Treslyn, Levi and Cheyenne Pollreisz 9. Tracy, Freyja and Karl Sherman 10. Race Bremer, Brittie Oakley,

Meg Aleshire

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The Rebel’s Bluff Troupe presented the musical “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” July 26-20 at the Mt. Vernon Arts and Recreation Center in Mt. Vernon.

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Carmen and Carley Jenkins Emily Fish, Tammy Benson Sarah Odom, Brian Freeman, Teresa Talent Ellen Koenemann, Sandy Voskamp, Lora Worm Ann, Bridget and Tim Hannon Johnny and Rene Spencer John and Ginger Zaagsma

8. Laura and Ty Hazelton 9. Cindy Green, Becky Nield 10. Cecilia, Chad, Sarah and

Maggie Gripka 11. Mike Tebow, Karen Millsap,

Ruth Ann West, Jake Millsap 12. Lana Moore, Kinna Card,

Betty Lookingbill,

Maxine Brashears

Connection Magazine | 61

1

4

2

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The second National Night Out in Monett, hosted by the Monett Police Department, Fire Department and Barry-Lawrence Ambulance, was held Aug. 7 at the Jerry D. Hall Memorial Pavilion in the Glen and Sharon Garrett Park in Monett.

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9 62 | September 2018

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Pam, Kaitlyn and Stephanie Schumacher Lyndsi Waltrip, Jan Overton, Jennifer Hamburg holding Jamison, Shala Bass Ashley Schuman holding Piper Williams, Gabe Schuman Caleen Sharon, Carolyn Carder, Louise Hensley, Barb Lindsey

8

5. Kristi, Brantlee, Emilee, Josh and

Everlee Golubski 6. Liz Castillo, Alondra Montelongo,

Juan Castillo, Vanessa Montelongo,

Ivan Montelongo, Daleyza Castillo 7. Elizabeth and Olivia Scritchfield 8. Ronnie King, Kevin Gilmore 9. Randale and Austin Potts, Lisa Edwards 10. Xavier and Kristy Ray, Ayanna Stimac

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10 12 1. Savannah, Mark and Sarah Parker 2. Elaine Bates, Adriana Mathews 3. Andrea Sversvold, Diane Morgan 4. Brecklyn Brouwer, Ashley Carr, Brittany Gillig 5. (front) Phoenix, Evolet, Amelia Meier

(back) Meagan Meier 6. Tucker and dad Joseph Evans 7. David Hermann, Jonathan Facio, Bob Dykes 8. Wesley Johnson, Amanda Lay 9. Larry and Ardith Barkhoff, Ashlee Vineyard 10. (front) Auna Andrade, Rayla Johnson

(back) Elisa Andrade, Cierra Black 11. Joe and Lisa Hoffman 12. (front) Sue Eimer, Paulette Lowe

(back) Kyera, Jodi, Michael and Keyara Vasey

11 The fifth annual Purdy Festival was held around and in the city parks and school district property in Purdy on July 21.

Connection Magazine | 63

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Home birth story a peaceful beginning Finding freedom dare to dream Favorite gifts Â›ÂŽÂŠÂ•ČąÂ–ÂŠÄ´ÂŽÂ›Âœ

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Advertisers Index Acambaro Mexican.................................... 50 Aire Serv....................................................... 24 Allstate Insurance...................................... 48 American Family......................................... 48 Assing, Dr. Dale.......................................... 15 Barry Electirc Coop.......................................6 Bruner Pharmacy........................................ 22 Bull’s Eye Powerwashing.......................... 47 Carey’s Cassville Florist............................ 21 Coast to Coast............................................ 48 Coldwell Banker......................................... 48 Community National Bank....................... 21 Cowherd, John; attorney.......................... 34 Cox Medical Centers................................. 68 Crane Family Dentistry............................. 27 Crown Double K Realty............................ 49 Diet Center.................................................. 27 Doug’s Pro Lube......................................... 54 Edward Jones.................................................3 Exeter Corn Maze...................................... 15 First State Bank of Purdy......................... 50 Fohn Funeral Home................................... 33 Four Seasons Real Estate......................... 24 Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri..... 34 Friendly Tire................................................. 55 Guanajuato Mexican................................. 55 Hayes Heating............................................ 47 Honey Bluff Shenanigans............................5 J & J Floor Covering.................................. 14 K&K Insurance............................................ 49 Ken’s Collision Center............................... 24 Kiddie City................................................... 22 Lackey Body Works................................... 14 Les Jacobs.................................................... 12 Monett Main Street................................... 12 Monett Rentals & Sales............................ 49 Ozark Methodist Manor........................... 54 Peppers and Co.......................................... 34 Pickin’ Patch Farm...................................... 22 Precision Land Services............................ 47 Quick Draw Gun......................................... 50 Race Brothers............................................. 37 Red Barn Café............................................. 12 Remax Properties....................................... 47 Riehn, J. Michael; attorney....................... 21 S. Perez Roofing and Remodeling........... 37 Scott Regional................................................6 Second Chances............................................5 Security Bank of Southwest Missouri... 33 Shelter Insurance............................. 12 & 55 Superior Spray Foam................................. 54 Swartz Tractor............................................. 37 TH Rogers Lumber Co............................... 67 The Coffee Café......................................... 15 The Jane Store............................................ 33 Tomblin’s Jewelry....................................... 27 Trogdon Marshall....................................... 14 Verona Corn Maze........................................5 White’s Insurance.........................................6 Whitley Pharmacy...................................... 67

Sam and Elizabeth Pick took Connection magazine on their vacation to London, Brussels and Berlin.

They are shown standing in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.

(top left) Making Memories Tour of Washburn recently went to New York City. The group, including Terrell, Tonya, Payton and Grant Varner; Jerry, Angie, Greg and Alice Varner; Chantel Martin; and Rose, Sydney and Lisa Newman, was enjoying the Statue of Liberty when this photo was taken. They took along a copy of the July issue of Connection Magazine to celebrate the 4th of July. (left) Lou Ann Priest of Cassville, Mo.; Kay Lombard of Wheaton, Mo.; and Alice Varner of Washburn, Mo., on the Making Memories Tours trip “Mystery in May”. The tour went to multiple places in Illinois: a Reindeer Ranch, painting class, Amish meal, Railway Museum, and many more fun things were included. This picture was taken in front of Lincoln Monument in Springfield, Ill.

Connection Magazine | 65

Parting Shot Photo by Lonna Norman

By all these lovely tokens September days are here ,

With summer ’s best of weather And autumn’s best of cheer.

-Helen Hunt Jackson 66 | September 2018

Fall Fashion Arrivals...

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Connection Magazine | 67