Connection May 2016

FREE

the gift of love Make Mother’s Day special

Memorable brunch

Tasty recipes for Mom

Inseparable

Mother-daughter duo

Monett’s water reservoir

Historical reservoir in Monett set for demolition

Motherhood NASA executive Janet Kavandi:

The toughest job of all

A magazine dedicated to Southwest Missourians

MAY 2016

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 1

2 | MAY 2016

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 3

www.edwardjones.com A magazine dedicated to Southwest Missourians

PUBLISHER Jacob Brower connection@monett-times.com EDITOR Kyle Troutman editor@cassville-democrat.com Marketing director Lisa Craft community@monett-times.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Sheila Harris James Craig Marion Chrysler

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CONTRIBUTORS Murray Bishoff Meagan Ruffing Nancy Ridgley Shawn Hayden Darlene Wierman Melonie Roberts Sheila Harris Susan Funkhouser Pam Wormington Brad Stillwell Jared Lankford Julia Kilmer Jennifer Conner Anne Angle Dionne Zebert Jane Severson Verna Fry Angie Judd Cheryl Williams Sierra Gunter PHOTOGRAPHERS Chuck Nickle Brad Stillwell Jamie Brownlee Amy Sampson DISTRIBUTION Greg Gilliam Kevin Funcannon TO ADVERTISE 417-847-2610 - Cassville 417-235-3135 - Monett Send email inquiries to connection@monett-times.com Mailing address: P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708 Connection is published monthly and distributed free in Cassville, Monett, Exeter, Washburn, Pierce City, Mt. Vernon, Aurora, Verona, Roaring River, Eagle Rock, Shell Knob, Purdy, Wheaton, Freistatt, Marionville, Seligman, Golden and other surrounding areas.

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

May 2016

Cover story 10 Stellar

mom

Cassville native Janet Kavandi fulfills roles of mother, wife and NASA executive

17 Special gift for Mom

Give mom the gift that show you are thinking of her

22 Michael’s Hardware goes green

Foliage abounds in Cassville greenhouse to suit customer needs

27 Black Kettle Salad is back

The Family Room Steakhouse on Broadway brings forth tastes of the past

36 Better together

Mother-daughter duo, Darla and Madison Horner, promote charity with pageantry

47 Deep perspective abroad

Two Monett teachers bring moral lessons of the Holocaust to light

59 The long wait

The family of fallen veteran insists on proper burial

62 Reservoir no more

Historical reservoir in Monett set for demolition

68 Quality time after school

Photos by Marian Mobley

Pierce City Baptist Church program finds great success

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 5

6 | MAY 2016

Photos by Valerie Miller

Contents 9 Proud Parent contest 21 Healthy Connection 32 Recipes: Show her you care 35 Bottles & Brews 41 Library Connection 45 Cutest Pet contest 46 Community calendar 52 Photo submissions 71 Column: A house divided 75 Familiar Faces 80 My Connection 82 Parting Shot

JOIN US ONLINE: facebook.com/MyConnectionMo twitter.com/myconnection_mo

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

Email it to connection@monett-times.com Cover photo courtesy of The Plain Dealer of Cleveland, Ohio

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 7

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Proud Parent

bayley jo usrey is the 8-month-old daughter of Jeff and Ashley Usrey of Cassville.

Bayley is May’s cutest kid.

Are you a proud parent?

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

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

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.

Congratulations, Bayley!

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 9

Cassville native and Astronaut Janet Kavandi, middle, poses for a photo in her space suit with her two children, Ariana Kavandi and William Kavandi, who are now 22 and 25, respectively.

10 | MAY 2016

Out-of-this-world mom porch of our house looking up at the stars and talking about how beautiful it must be up there and what we would be able to see. From space, would we be able to see buildings, roads or people?”

About 30 years later, in the Space Shuttle Discovery launching June 2, 1998, at 6:06:24 p.m. from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Kavandi’s dream came true. She landed back on Earth nine days, 19 hours, 54 minutes and 12 seconds later. “[Space] was everything I had dreamt of and more,” she said. “It was very gratifying, because that’s something I had thought about doing my whole life.”

Kavandi went on to take two more space flights, launching on Feb. 11, 2000, for an 11-day trip, and again on July 12, 2001, for a 12-day trip.

Her flights involved docking with the International Space Station and mapping more than 47 million miles of Earth’s land surface for three-dimensional topography maps.

For her children, 22-year-old Ariana Kavandi and 25-year-old William Kavandi, it was a different perspective from the ground.

“They were elementary age when I did my flying,” Janet said. “I think that’s probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Flying in space is easy compared to raising a family.”

Cassville native, NASA exec, balances job, family 250 miles above ground

Story by Kyle Troutman, editor | Photos provided courtesy of The Cleveland Plain Dealer and NASA

marcel | fotolia.com

C

assville native Janet Kavandi has flown in space three times, but all the training to become an astronaut was simple compared to balancing her life in orbit and her family life on the ground.

Now the first female director of NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Kavandi said her first inkling to astronaut fame occurred to her when she was living in Cassville.

“Cassville is a small town, comfortable place to grow up, where everyone knew everyone, and I’m sure it’s still that way,” Kavandi said.

“What I recall most about Cassville is my dad and me sitting on the back

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 11

Cassville native and Astronaut Janet Kavandi, front middle, participates in the May 1995 Astronaut Candidate familiarization flight on the KC-135.

Janet Kavandi, STS-104 mission specialist and Cassville native, connects cables and hoses from the newly installed Quest Airlock to Unity Node 1. Other STS-104 and Expedition Two crew members are visible in the background working in the Airlock.

STS-91 Mission Specialist and Cassville native Janet Kavandi is photographed seated in the commander’s forward flight deck station.

12 | MAY 2016

Kavandi said she and her husband, John Kavandi — an airline pilot — refused to hire a nanny, and were thankful for all the family help they received along the way.

“My husband and I would put our schedules together each month and figure out who would be in town and when,” she said. “He mostly worked his airline schedule around my flight training, because my training times were more dynamic.

“We had a lot of family and neighbors supporting us, and that made it all work out.”

Kavandi said even though her children would be at the launches, they were still a little young to understand the gravity of what their mother was doing.

“They were quite young, and before flights, I would be in quarantine, but would get to see them from a distance with no physical contact,” she said. “It always made me want to cry, and I learned that when I saw my daughter start to tear up, I had to have a lollipop there to make things easier for both of us.

“My husband said everything would be happy until the rocket launched, then they would see the flames and the building would shake.

They would feel that reverb and my daughter would say, ‘Mommy is leaving the planet.’”

Kavandi said once in orbit, she would get to talk to her children via video.

“That was fun because I got to hang upside down and my hair was everywhere, so they liked that,” she said.

Kavandi said her children also did not see her job as such a big deal because where the two went to school, astronaut parents weren’t out of the ordinary.

Cassville native and Astronaut Janet Kavandi participates in STS-104 emergency egress training.

“They probably didn’t realize it a lot when they were young because the area we lived in had a lot of astronauts, so their children were in school with my children,” Kavandi said. “I think they knew it was cool, but it was not all that unusual to them.

“Now, they’re older and with lots of people whose parents are not astronauts, so they realize it a little more.

With my job, there comes some danger, so I was just glad they weren’t always worried about me.”

Kavandi said being in space made her think about things happening on Earth and how those things would affect her children.

“What you get to see in space is very unique,” she said. “You hear stories about protecting the planet from global warming and deforestation, and you can see over and over when you fly that air quality is lower and land is being washed into the ocean because the trees have been cut and there are no roots to hold that ground.

Cassville native and Astronaut Janet Kavandi, STS-99 mission specialist, waves to colleagues prior to departing Ellington Field in a T-38 jet aircraft, destination Florida.

“Seeing all that makes me feel more compelled to help protect what we have left for our children.”

While neither have ventured into the astronaut field, Kavandi said her daughter has started a master’s program in biology, partially because of what Kavandi has said about the environment. Her son is a naval architect in Houston.

Kavandi said no matter where she is or what she’s doing, she always goes back to her small-town roots in Cassville.

“I appreciate my roots my family established in southwest Missouri, and I still have a sister in Springfield, so I visit the area still,” she said. “Cassville will always be home for me, and my son was named after my dad, because he was such a caring, patient person who treated me as an adult when I was just a child.”

Kavandi said she has used those lessons through the years to be the best mother possible to her children.

“Flying in space is easy compared to raising a family.”

– Janet Kavandi, NASA astronaut and mother of two

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 13

Photos courtesy of The Cleveland Plain Dealer

Janet Kavandi, then Glenn’s deputy director, spoke with children in July 2015 at its visitors center at the Great Lakes Science Center.

Janet Kavandi spoke about washing hair in space in July 2015.

“I tried every night, no matter how tired I was, and even if I was still in my flight suit, to get a book and read with each of my kids, or just talk with them alone about whatever they wanted to talk about,” she said. “I wanted them to know how much I cared about them, and being alone with no other distractions is a good chance to do that.

“Now, I know how my dad felt with me. I think we don’t always realize how much our parents mean to us, and that we as parents can be the greatest influence on our children.” 

“We as parents can be the greatest influence on our children” 14 | MAY 2016

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Mother’s Day

gifts guaranteed to please Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned handmade card and an armful of roses?

I sure do. Think about it. Mother’s Day is the one day out of the entire year where moms actually get their own holiday.

It’s a day that represents love, thankfulness and an overall appreciation for every time we’ve gone above and beyond the human capabilities of what we ourselves think we cannot do.

Mother’s Day looks different for each mom out there, but the meaning behind the day remains universal among us all; moms are amazing. Simply put, what type of mom are you?

For the

For the

For the

Spa Mom

Sporty Mom

Simplistic Mom

Most spas offer some sort of discounted package for Mother’s Day. Don’t see one listed on their website? No problem. Pick up the phone and call to double check.

Spa managers are happy to accommodate all types of budgets; especially when mom is the receiver.

Take your wife to your local running store to have her feet professionally measured and analyzed so that she is sure to get the right kind of sneakers for the right kind of workout. This is something that moms don’t feel like they have the time to do, but secretly want to do because their feet are oh so achy.

A cute workout outfit can’t hurt either. There’s nothing like heading to your favorite Barre class in your new spandex leggings and tank top.

Do you have a mom or wife who likes to keep things simple? She enjoys the basics of everyday life and doesn’t like to fuss over flowers or chocolates? No problem.

Even the most laid back, simplistic mom needs a little TLC on Mother’s Day. Treat her to breakfast in bed, a handmade card from all the kids or an afternoon nap coupled with the lights off and the door closed – no interruptions allowed.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 17

For the

For the

For the

Super Mom

Tired Mom

New Mom

I think we’re all super moms in our own ways but for the moms who seem to be able to do it all and do it all really well without breaking a sweat, the bar can be pretty high.

I like to pull out the big surprises for these types of moms because, really, they usually have a to-do list and know exactly who’s going where, what’s going on and what’s for dinner the night before they ever need to know. So, here’s the plan: Send her away for the day.

Take the day off if you are the husband reading this and surprise her with a day out. When she wakes up in the morning, eat breakfast together as a family and tell her you have a few things planned for her. She will love this. You could even take it a step further and turn it into a scavenger hunt. Give her one note that says, “Your first clue is waiting for you where you brew your coffee each morning.”

The ideas are endless. This type of day serves more than one purpose.

First, it lets her know that you’re thinking about her. Second, it lets her know that she matters and, third, it’s fun. And who doesn’t need a little fun in their lives?

I think we’re all a little bit tired these days, but you know the moms I’m talking about. These moms have a lot of kids, or have recently had a baby and don’t sleep much at night. These moms need a break, so give her exactly that. Let her have the whole house to herself. You take the kids and leave the house. When moms are tired, the last thing they want to do is think about getting ready and going somewhere. Trust me, I dreamt about this very thing when I had my very first baby. Best. Gift.

Ever.

Yay! This mom just had her first baby and is still glowing from the crazy hormones. These moms are the easiest to please because they’re so overwhelmed by their new precious bambino that nothing can burst their bubble. Get her a cute necklace with the baby’s name and birthstone, or make a little collage book with pictures from your first days home with the baby. Yes, dads, you can do this.

Just grab a couple of pictures and glue them into a pretty little book, write some words next to them and, voila! You have a perfect and meaningful gift that you can give to your wife and pass down to your child someday.

18 | MAY 2016

Because really, the whole purpose behind Mother’s Day is to acknowledge moms for the amazing people they are.

For the

For the

Pregnant Mom

Romantic Mom

Whether this is your first pregnancy or fifth, being pregnant takes Mother’s Day to a whole new level. You’re hormonal, tired, overwhelmed (maybe) and don’t really know what you want. That’s OK. Pregnant moms always enjoy a date with their husbands.

Schedule a night out and enjoy each other’s company. If you have other kids at home, get a babysitter or ask grandma and grandpa to watch them for a few hours. Your wife will love the fact that she can sneak in some alone time with you before the new baby arrives.

I think we all secretly want some sort of romance in our lives. This mom likes the dozen red roses, heartfelt card and chocolates in a foil-wrapped heart-shaped box.

You might even throw in a few balloons and a stuffed teddy bear that says “I love you”. These are the easiest moms to buy for on Mother’s Day but for some reason, husbands often miss the mark.

Spend the extra few dollars and take her out to dinner. You don’t have to bust the budget, but think outside of the box. If going out to eat is not in the finances, have a picnic inside on your living room floor. Now, that’s romantic.

Guys, Mother’s Day is May 8 this year and this list will give you plenty of ideas to get things rolling. Moms, you might leave this article somewhere around the house where you think (wink, wink) your husband might notice it. A little help in the idea department never hurt anyone. Because really, the whole purpose behind Mother’s Day is to acknowledge moms for the amazing people they are.

Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist and mother to three. She enjoys encouraging moms everywhere and does just that in her forthcoming book, “Overwhelmed to In Control: Keeping Things Simple When Life Gets Tough,” that comes out this summer. Follow her on Facebook at WriterMeaganRuffing and at MeaganRuffing.com.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 19

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Healthy Connection

Get out and get active!

A

s the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, it is the perfect time to get outside and get active. Not only will physical activity allow you to reach or maintain a healthy weight and prevent chronic disease, it also is a mood booster.

As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, it is important to be aware of daily activities that can promote mental health. Exercise and physical activity increase blood circulation to the brain and release natural chemicals that affect your mood and thinking.

Exercise can improve mental health by:

Ways to stay active:

When choosing ways to stay active, it is best to find what activities you enjoy. Here are some examples of fun outdoor activities that you and your family can do this spring and summer: Hike a local trail Ride your bike Work in the garden

 Reducing anxiety, stress, and depression

Visit a local park

 Boosting your mood and improving self-esteem

Go on a family camping trip

 Improving memory, concentration, and mental alertness

Help coach a youth sports team Go for a jog

 Improving the quality of your sleep

Wash your car

 Preventing cognitive decline

Play tennis

How much physical activity should you be getting a day?

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends that children and teens be physically active for at least 60 minutes per day. Adults (18 and older) should do 150 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity per week.

That is about 30 minutes a day, at least five days a week. This activity does not have to be continuous and can be split up throughout the day. Adults should also do strengthening activities, such as weight lifting, resistance bands or sit-ups at least two days a week.

Be sure to check with your physician before starting a new exercise program.

Play yard games Play catch with your kids Have a family field day Walk around the block Swim at a local pool or lake Hit the basketball court

LISA BUCK is a registered dietitian at the Center for Health Improvement at Cox Monett Hospital. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in dietetics and Spanish from Missouri State University and is working on a master’s degree in public health. Lisa is passionate about international development work and has volunteered throughout Central America working in the area of health education and promotion.

In her free time, Lisa enjoys biking, running and all things outdoors.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 21

Hardware store keeps customers local with

new greenhouse

M

ichael’s Hardware, which opened in Cassville in 2014, is a busy place, and now that they’ve added a greenhouse, they are appealing to a whole new genre of customers who want to buy or grow their food locally and know from where it came.

The store offers a multitude of services and has already attained a level of success.

In 2015, the store won the Cassville Democrat’s ‘Best of the Best’ awards for Best Hardware Store, Best Paint Store, Best Lawn and Garden Center and Best Home Improvement Store.

But, to meet customer demand, including a growing trend to buy food locally, and foods that are not genetically modified (non-GMO), the store added a greenhouse.

22 | MAY 2016

Michael LeCompte, owner of Michael’s Hardware Store in Cassville, helps customer Jeni Hudson, academic advisor at Crowder College, Cassville, and Jacquelyn Ritchie, OTA student, load soil and flowers she purchased from the store’s new greenhouse. Hudson said she plans to plant the flowers on the campus grounds.

Staff fill community void, meet demand for non-GMO, heirloom plants “Customers have been asking for it, and some of the offerings here are just not available locally,” said Michael LeCompte, store owner.

Story and photos by Julia Kilmer

Michael’s Hardware Store team member Grace Schell sorts through plants inside the new greenhouse, which carries annuals, perennials, 20 tomato plants, peppers, ornamental grasses and more.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 23

“It’s part of the “eat local” movement, because customers want to know where their food is coming from, and that it’s a safe product,” said Charlie Phaneuf, salesman at the store who also happens to be a Barry County master gardener. “Also, people don’t have to travel so it reduces their cost, and we felt we had to step up because we lost our nurseries in the area and wanted to fill that void in the community.”

Phaneuf said that pricing is another plus.

“One of the best things is our variety,” he said. “We have more [plants] available than even Walmart, and for the same exact item and size, we’re charging a lot less, especially with tomatoes and peppers. It’s a growing trend. We’ve definitely noticed a big difference between last year and this year.”

Because demand is so much greater, so is business.

“Now, we have more out there with the greenhouse, than we sold last year because the demand is more,” Phaneuf said. “Last

year, we could only do so much, but now, we’ve got the space.”

The greenhouse also keeps people home, which helps the local economy, and helps keep dollars in their pocket by preventing long commutes to places like Rogers, Ark., Monett, Joplin or Springfield.

“From an economic development standpoint, it will keep people here rather than going elsewhere to find these

things,” LeCompte said. “It keeps people locally, at home.”

In recent years, there has also been a growing demand for non-GMO plants, which are plants that have not been genetically modified.

“The majority of everything we have is GMO-free,” Phaneuf said. “[Choosing GMO-free plants and foods] is a conscious effort and decision. We’re being

Customer Lester Johnson of Eagle Rock ventured into the new greenhouse at Michael’s Hardware Store looking for a nice border flower to plant, and came out with some striking Dianthus flowers.

Inside their new greenhouse, Salesman and Barry County Master Gardener Charlie Phaneuf shows a spread of more than 20 types of tomato plants the store is now carrying, including Cherokee purple tomatoes and Black Krims, which are in the top five of the best tasting tomatoes. Along with tomatoes, the greenhouse is also carrying peppers, cabbages, plants for children, annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses, culinary herbs, and features a whole section of non-GMO heirloom plants. Non-GMO refers to plants that are original, not genetically-modified seeds.

24 | MAY 2016

cautious for our customer’s safety. GMO is not about the nutrition of the plant, it is about how the farmer can grow it as easy as possible. It’s convenience for the [mass] grower. They don’t have to go out and pull weeds, or put a pesticide on plants, because with GMO, the pesticide is already grown or engineered inside the plant. Plus, it’s nice to be able to know where your food came from; customers

want that, and we’re trying to give people what they want.”

If a customer has a particular predicament or plant question, just ask Phaneuf, who is quite knowledgeable on the subject matter.

Take tomatoes, one of the most popular produce items in any garden, for instance. One common planting mistake, Phaneuf said, is that people get excited and plant their tomatoes too early. As a general rule, he advises to wait until two weekends before Mother’s Day to plant tomatoes.

To meet customer demand for tomatoes, the store responded by offering a wide variety of the juicy garden mainstay in their greenhouse.

“We have more than 20 different heirloom tomato plants,” Phaneuf said.

Some of which include Cherokee Purple tomatoes, Orange Oxhearts and the Black Krim. What makes heirloom to-

matoes so popular, compared to hybrids, Phaneuf explained, is their incredible flavor, because heirlooms are an original, non-genetically-modified plant.

“The Krim is in the top five of the best-tasting tomatoes,” Phaneuf said. “It’s just got that really rich flavor, and doesn’t need a lot of salt. We have a whole section of non-GMO heirloom plants. They’re not genetically modified, and have that

old-world flavor — like the kind your grandmother had — compared to what’s in the supermarkets today.”

Inside, the hardware store also sells heirloom seeds to grow your own heirloom plants, and, of course, a wide variety of products including electrical, plumbing, paint, lumber, hardware and home improvement items.

Along with heirloom plants, the greenhouse also has novelty items, like super-hot peppers for the more daring types, a popcorn plant, and plants just for children.

“We have the world’s hottest Caribbean pepper, the ghost pepper,” Phaneuf said.

The greenhouse also carries culinary herbs, perennials, ornamental grasses, annuals, shaded plants, ground covers, plants just for children, peppers and more.

They will continue to get plants as the

season progresses, to keep up with supply and demand.

“We will keep the greenhouse going through the season,” LeCompte said.

“We’ll bring in shrubs and grasses and ground covers.”

Current and new customers, curious about the greenhouse, venture inside and get hooked by the colors, fragrance and allure of the plants, herbs and hanging

Michael’s Hardware salesman Charlie Phaneuf helps customer Al Leighton-Floyd look for a particular spark plug during a visit to the store. (left) The cash-wrap area at Michael’s Hardware Store in Cassville is always a busy place.

Cashier Memory Barber helps a customer, who purchased green and purple cabbage from the new greenhouse, check out. Barber said that since the greenhouse was set up last month, rarely does a customer go in and not come out with something.

baskets, and rarely leaving empty-handed.

“I rarely see people go into the greenhouse and not come back out with something,” said team member and cashier Memory Barber, smiling.

And when they do come out, they have a smile on their face, too. 

Michael’s greenhouse Sale Barn Rd, Cassville, MO 65625

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 25

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Black Kettle Salad is back on Broadway

Th

e

L

Fa mi ly R

ike memories and fine wine, some things get better with time.

So it is with the locallyfamous Black Kettle Salad, which has returned to its previous location on Broadway.

Now home to The Family Room Steakhouse, the former Black Kettle was a popular eatery from the 1940s until 2008, when the owner died and the family decided to close the restaurant’s doors.

When the business shut down, patrons mourned the loss of a local landmark and a favorite menu item — the Black Kettle Salad.

Now, it’s back.

Jami Lawrimore, owner of The Family Room Steakhouse, operating from the former Black Kettle location, has brought a bit of history — and flavor — back to Broadway.

oom St

a eakhouse features locally f

“I obtained the original dressing recipe,” said Lawrimore. “The salad itself is pretty basic — shredded lettuce, cubed roast beef, cubed American cheese, Parmesan cheese and topped with one black olive. The secret is in the dressing.”

When Lawrimore first started experimenting, trying to recreate the original BKS, she had a lot of input from customers.

“We had umpteen opinions as to what we were doing wrong,” she said. “People would argue whether the meat was supposed to be roast or prime rib, whether it was topped with a green olive or a black one. I just worked on it until no one said anything — they just smile and eat it.”

And since reviving the salad, and the many memories it evokes among the restaurant’s diners, Lawrimore is having to

“I thought it was just a natural thing to bring the BKS back to its original home on Broadway.”

– Jami Lawrimore, owner of The Family Room Steakhouse Story and photos by Melonie Roberts

e far s u mo

make dressing by the gallons.

“We typically go through at least a gallon a day,” she said. “We average about 30 Black Kettle Salads a day. Our record was 42. And the thing is, you have to make the dressing and let it sit for 24 hours so the flavors can blend.”

The salad itself is pretty basic.

“It’s the easiest thing in here to make,” Lawrimore said. “For a dinner salad, we take 12 ounces of shredded lettuce, six ounces of cubed roast beef and three ounces of cubed American cheese, sprinkle on Parmesan cheese and top it with a single black olive. We add a slice of buttered bread and that’s it. It’s a lot of salad.

Our generous portions are unmatched by any other restaurant in town.”

Although the restaurant offers a variety of other salads, including the Lawrimore steak or chicken salads and fried chicken salad, the Black Kettle Salad (BKS) is, by far, the most popular.

“I think it’s because of the memories in the minds of our customers,” Lawrimore said. “For the most part, those were better times. Now that I’m here, I thought it was just a natural thing to bring the BKS back to its original home on Broadway.”

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 27

One customer, a 90-year-old woman who lives in Springfield and happened to be in Monett one day, asked if the salad was like the original.

“When I told her it was, she got tears in her eyes and said, ‘Oh, what memories that brings back,’ and her family brought her back from Springfield the following day to celebrate her birthday. My customer base is loyal and new customers keep coming in all the time as word gets out the Black Kettle Salad has returned.”

In addition to moving to the former Black Kettle location last May, providing higher visibility for her business, Lawrimore said her loyal employees have certainly helped in the success of her business.

“My staff works as hard as I do to make this business successful,” she said. “They have to believe in it, or it wouldn’t work.

28 | MAY 2016

In the restaurant business, there is typically a lot of employee turnover. We don’t have that. I have a lot of the same staff that started with me in 2012. We’re like family.”

Cooks and wait staff includes Hannah Jo Hesemann, Kim Velten, Montana Craig, Darion Sanderson, Amber Conway, Evan Zebert, Casey Jo Moore, Lainey Parrigon, Lisa Hayes, Tiffany Gripka and Dante Gilbert.

Family members who pitch in on busy Sunday afternoons include Lawrimore’s husband, Bryant; her sons, Seth Gripka, who works the grill, Jacob Lawrimore, 9, and Jeremiah Lawrimore, 11, who peel potatoes and clear tables; her sister, Brandi Burt; nephews Jackson and Ian Burt; and cousins Kelly Kaiser and Linda Mullens.

“We’ll serve anywhere from 120 to

It takes a lot of shredded iceberg lettuce, a full 12 ounces, paired with six ounces of cubed roast beef and three ounces of cubed American cheese to create the foundation of the Black Kettle Salad, a local favorite of many area residents. Jami Lawrimore, owner of The Family Room Steakhouse, home of the former Black Kettle Restaurant in Monett, tops the featured salad with a single black olive, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and the signature original recipe dressing, to top off this perfect summer salad meal.

160 guests between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday alone,” Lawrimore said. “To some of the bigger restaurants around here, that may not seem like much. But I love what I do and I’m happy.

“When I was seriously thinking about closing the restaurant, I prayed for guidance. I drove by here and saw the lease sign the same day. That was my sign. I called about it immediately and that was it. God has a purpose for this place. That much is clear.”

The Family Room Steakhouse is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Sunday, and 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 29

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Although the Black Kettle Salad is a local favorite, area residents might want to add a little variety to their summer dining fare. The Family Room Steakhouse owner Jami Lawrimore has suggested two of her seasonal favorites.

Oriental Chicken Salad with Ramen Noodles

1 large head finely shredded cabbage 4 whole green onions, thinly sliced 3-4 c. cooked chicken, shredded 2 tbsp. sugar 1/4 c. white vinegar 1/3 c. salad oil 1/2 tsp. pepper 1 pkg. Top Ramen (chicken flavor) 1/3 c. slivered almonds, toasted

Directions 1. In a large salad bowl, combine cabbage, green onions, and chicken.

2. In a small bowl combine the sugar, vinegar, oil, pepper and flavor packet from Top Ramen package, stir until dissolved. Pour over cabbage and toss lightly, cover and chill.

3. Just before serving, crumble the dry noodles from soup mix into the salad. Sprinkle almonds on top and serve.

Jami Lawrimore, owner of The Family Room Steakhouse in Monett, managed to obtain the oil and vinegar-based dressing recipe unique to the original Black Kettle Salads and has revived the locally famous menu item to high acclaim.

Spinach, Strawberry and Walnut Salad with Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette For the salad: 2 cups (handfuls) of fresh spinach 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries 8 walnut halves, rough chopped 1 oz. crumbled gorgonzola (about a 1/4 of plastic container) 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced Layer each ingredient on a large salad plate.

delicious dining

Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette: 1/3 cup raspberry balsamic vinegar 2-3 tablespoons olive oil pinch onion powder salt and pepper, to taste 1 teaspoon Simply Fruit strawberry preserves 1 teaspoon Grey Poupon Honey Dijon Combine ingredients in a jar or tightly sealed container.

Shake vigorously until well combined. Drizzle over salad.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 31

Recipes Monte Cristo Benedict Ingredients 2 large eggs 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1 tablespoon white sugar 1 pinch salt 1 pinch cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice 4 thick slices day-old French bread 1 tablespoon butter 8 thin slices cooked ham 4 slices Cheddar cheese 4 slices Havarti cheese 8 poached eggs 2 teaspoons chopped fresh chives, or to taste 1 pinch kosher salt, or to taste 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

Directions n Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. n Whisk 2 eggs, cream, white sugar, salt, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and allspice together in a bowl until batter is thoroughly combined.

Strawberry Waffles Ingredients 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups buttermilk 1/2 cup vanilla Greek-style yogurt 1/2 cup butter, melted 2 eggs, beaten 1-1/2 tablespoons white sugar 3/4 cup chopped strawberries, or more to taste

Directions n Preheat and grease a waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions. n Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl. Whisk buttermilk, yogurt, butter, eggs, and sugar together in a separate bowl; stir into flour mixture until batter is smooth.

Fold strawberries into batter. n Pour about 1/3 cup batter into preheated waffle iron; cook until lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter.

32 | MAY 2016

Vanilla Berry Parfaits Ingredients 2 (8 ounce) containers vanilla yogurt 1 (10 ounce) package frozen mixed berries 2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions n Cover the bottoms of two small glasses with a layer of yogurt. Cover layer with berries. Repeat until both glasses are full, ending with a fruit layer. Sprinkle with graham crackers and nutmeg.

n Lay bread slices into batter, one at a time, and let bread absorb the mixture. Turn bread slices in batter until almost all batter has been absorbed, about 10 minutes. n Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and melt butter in the hot skillet.

Cook bread slices in the hot butter until browned, 2-3 minutes per side.

Transfer French toast slices to a baking sheet. n Lay ham slices into the hot skillet and cook until meat begins to brown, about 1 minute per side. n To assemble, place a Cheddar cheese slice on a slice of French toast, top with 2 slices of ham, and lay a Havarti cheese slice over ham. n Bake in the preheated oven until French toast pieces are no longer wet, the batter is set, and cheese has melted and begun to brown, about 20 minutes. n Place sandwiches on serving plates and top each with 2 poached eggs.

Season with kosher salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Mother ’s Day brunch items Want to show Mom how much you appreciate her? Spoil her this year with these delicious brunch items.

Overnight Blueberry French Toast Ingredients

Simple Scones

Crustless Spinach Quiche

Ingredients

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white sugar 5 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup butter 1 egg, beaten 1 cup milk

Directions n Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking sheet. n In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter. Mix the egg and milk in a small bowl, and stir into flour mixture until moistened. n Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead briefly. Roll dough out into a 1/2 inch thick round. Cut into 8 wedges, and place on the prepared baking sheet. n Bake 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 onion, chopped 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained 5 eggs, beaten 3 cups shredded Muenster cheese 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions n Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9 inch pie pan. n Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft. Stir in spinach and continue cooking until excess moisture has evaporated. n In a large bowl, combine eggs, cheese, salt and pepper. Add spinach mixture and stir to blend. Scoop into prepared pie pan. n Bake in preheated oven until eggs have set, about 30 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

12 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, cut into 1 inch cubes 1 cup fresh blueberries 12 eggs, beaten 2 cups milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/3 cup maple syrup 1 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 cup water 1 cup fresh blueberries 1 tablespoon butter

Directions n Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange half the bread cubes in the dish, and top with cream cheese cubes. Sprinkle 1 cup blueberries over the cream cheese, and top with remaining bread cubes. n In a large bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and syrup. Pour over the bread cubes. Cover, and refrigerate overnight. n Remove the bread cube mixture from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. n Cover, and bake 30 minutes. Uncover, and continue baking 25 to 30 minutes, until center is firm and surface is lightly browned. n In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, cornstarch, and water. Bring to a boil. Stirring constantly, cook 3 to 4 minutes. Mix in the remaining 1 cup blueberries. Reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes, until the blueberries burst. Stir in the butter, and pour over the baked French toast.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 33

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Bottles & Brews Lagunitas Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’

BEER, WINE

At 7.5 percent alcohol by volume, Lagunitas Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ has packed a punch since being introduced in 2009. A hoppy wheat ale, the brew is perfect for IPA fans looking for something a little lighter and smoother than the Lagunitas brewery’s famous IPA. According to the brewery’s website, Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ pairs best with fettuccine Alfredo and chicken tikka masala.

& SPIRITS

Sierra Nevada Otra Vez A traditional Gose-style ale infused with cactus, Sierra Nevada’s Otra Vez will have any beer aficionado clamoring for another one with its unique taste. A warmweather beer perfect for the start of summer, Otra Vez combines prickly pear cactus with grapefruit to create a sweet, tangy flavor. On RateBeer.com, it has earned an 85 score out of 100 in reviews by the site’s users.

Zwickel Baravarian Style Lager Sold in four-packs of liter-sized bottles, Zwickel Bavarian Style Lager is the flagship lager of the Urban Chestnut Brewing Company of St. Louis. Unfiltered and unpasteurized, the lager is a German-style brew that finishes smooth and remains vitamin rich from the yeast.

On BeerAdvocate.com, it has earned an 86 out of 100 score in reviews by the site’s users.

Visit our locations in

Monett Purdy and Cassville Buffalo Trace Kentucky Bourbon Crafting its bourbon for more than 200 years, the Buffalo Trace Distillery sits on the banks of the Kentucky River, billing itself as a tribute to the mighty buffalo and the pioneers who followed them.

Made from corn, rye and barley malt, the Kentucky straight bourbon is aged in oak barrels for years before being bottled and distributed.

It has earned multiple awards, including double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 35

Mother-daughter Dynamic duo enjoying special bond through relationship, and pageantry

“We literally spend all our time together” – Darla Horner, mother of Madison Horner

Madison Horner as a little girl, before she became interested in the pageantry, with her mother, Darla Horner.

36 | MAY 2016

L

ong before President Woodrow Wilson declared the first Mother’s Day in 1914 as a public expression of love for mothers, mothers and their children have celebrated a special bond — a bond, and a way of being with each other, that Barry County mother Darla Horner, and daughter, Madison Horner, completely understand.

“She’s my best friend, and she’s been my rock since I was a little girl,” said Madison Horner, Cassville senior, of her mother. “She’s always told me to chase my dreams, no matter how big they are, and no matter how hard the journey may be; that it will be worth it in the end so long as you stick with it.”

Along with typical mother-daughter activities — like sharing each other’s clothes, chatting and eating chocolate — one unique way they bond is through pageantry activities.

“I’ve been a Miss Missouri local pageantry director since 1996,” said Darla Horner, pre-K teacher for the Exeter school district.

Horner, who is from the Missouri boot heel, started competing in 1989 and won the title of “Miss Malden.”

“Since birth, Madison has been my little sidekick,” she said. “We’ve had a strong bond because we literally spend all our time together. She’s really a different kid in that she doesn’t go out with her friends — they hang out at our house. So, even though she grew up, she’s [always] home with me.

“When I was competing, my stepmother was probably the force behind me. For my mom, academics were more her thing. But both of them supported and pushed me and I knew if I ever had a little girl, I would push her even harder. And not just in the pageant realm, in everything. Sometimes, Mama just needs to give a little nudge.”

Being involved in pageantry activities puts the mother-daughter team on the go with places to be and people to see.

“Last year, I bought a new car with nine miles on it, and in two months, it had 15,000 miles on it,” Darla said. “That’s because you have to have a voice coach, interview coach, walking coach, etc.”

But as a little girl, Madison did not like pageantry activities at all.

“We’d go to the pageants, and she hated it,” Darla said. “She was a tomboy. So I told her when she was 6, ‘Look, we’re not doing this again until you come to me and say, ‘I want to do this.’

And that’s exactly what happened. She was 12 and wanted to do the teen pageant. We practiced in a couple local things and got her more familiar with pageantry, and it wasn’t until then that she got involved.”

Madison had been a “Little Sister,” a role in which a young girl is mentored by a title holder and gets to accompany her to events and service endeavors, which sparked her interest, but it was service that caused pageantry to take hold of her heart.

Story by Julia Kilmer

Madison with her mother, Darla Horner, and father, Jon Horner.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 37

“You have to have a heart for service.”

– Madison Horner, Miss Texas County

Cassville senior Madison Horner volunteering at IHOP Day for CMN to help raise money for Children’s Miracle Network as part of her activities as Miss Texas County, her title in the pageantry.

Madison Horner pauses for a picture at a pageant event with her father, Jon Horner, president of Security Bank of Southwest Missouri, Cassville, and Darla Horner, pre-k teacher at Exeter school district.

38 | MAY 2016

In 2015, Madison won the title of Miss Texas County, and chose a platform.

In the pageantry, girls choose a specific platform, then spend their year as titleholder dedicating service to it.

In 2007, the Miss America organization partnered with The Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), their national platform.

“You have to have a heart for service,” she said.

“More than anything, my biggest goal, because my platform was Love for Loren, and to support CMN, was I wanted to be the Miracle Maker (an award given to the contestant who raises the most money for CMN). That would showcase that I wasn’t just a beauty queen, I was serving — representing my title and emulating the qualities of the next Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen.”

Madison’s efforts raised more than $5,500 for CMN last year, which helped children like her cousin Loren Kennedy Horner, who was born with Down syndrome, a hole in her heart, and was diagnosed with Leukemia at 10 months.

“She knows I’m there to push her to do her best because I want her to seize every opportunity that she can, and I think that’s why she has been so successful,” Darla said.

After graduating, Madison plans to attend the University of Missouri to major in broadcast journalism.

“Since I was little, my dad has always told me, ‘Pick a job you love and will put my heart and soul into.’ I love journalism because it’s always changing. I’m really excited for college because I’m going to do whatever it takes to achieve this special dream and make you and daddy proud,” Madison, sitting next to her mom, beamed.

Madison with her “Little Sisters” on Parade Day, a traditional pageantry activity.

Her brother, Chase, 21, is majoring in business at Crowder College.

“He’s just the opposite, an introvert,” Darla said.

Madison’s father, Jon Horner, president of Security Bank of Southwest Missouri in Cassville, is one of her biggest supporters.

“He’s her unpaid pageant coach, chauffeur, gofer and makes sure she knows all her current events,” Darla said. “We’re pretty blessed to have such great kids. Both of our children are very grounded. They have never given us an ounce of trouble. I think what stands out in my mind is, they both want to make us proud. Little do they know, they always make us proud.”

This year, to celebrate Mother’s Day, the mother-daughter duo will probably take a little road trip to Martin Greer’s Candies in Garfield, Ark., a family of old-world chocolatiers, and one of their favorite places.

“Chocolate soothes our hearts,” Darla said.

“So any time we have special occasions, we go there. When the kids were little, they would draw me pictures, make a card or fix me breakfast. I asked Madison if she remembered bringing me breakfast in bed once when daddy helped; that was a hoot.”

“Yeah, I don’t know how good that breakfast tasted,” Madison laughed.

The dynamic duo have affectionate names for each other.

“You’re the dynamic part, I’m just the duo,” Darla joked. “We always say to each other, ‘You’re my peanut butter and jelly,’ or ‘My peas and carrots’ — and that’s what we are.” 

Madison Horner crowning a “Little Sister,” and holding Loren Kennedy Horner, for whom she created her platform.

Madison visiting a patient in the hospital, one of the activities she performed as a title holder in the pageantry.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 39

Happy Mother’s Day! From the employees

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Library Connection

Good summer reads at your local library Book suggestions from our reading aficionados

S

ummer is almost upon us and the busiest time of the year starts at your local library.

Summer reading programs began in the 1890s, for the same reason we have them today — to encourage school children to continue reading during their summer vacation.

In 1987, 10 regional libraries in Minnesota decided to join forces

and collaborate on their summer reading programs. Their goal was to share ideas, expertise, and costs to provide high-quality programs for their children.

Today, that collaboration has grown into a consortium that includes all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Mariana Islands, Federated Islands of Micronesia,

and the Cayman Islands. Summer reading programs have also expanded to include children, teens and adults.

Visit your local library and see what is planned for this summer. While you are there, look for these titles on the shelves or as e-books at Missouri Libraries 2 Go.

Depraved Heart

by Patricia Cornwell (mystery)

This was a tangled web of high-tech intrigue, complex relationships, loose ends and psychopathology spanning decades and unraveling in unexpected and horrifying ways. Incredibly cunning, carefully planned evil is wrought without thought of collateral damage or far ranging consequences. As the saying goes “Revenge is a dish best served cold.” I was totally drawn in and consider this one of the best “Scarpetta” books in a list of many over numerous years. The manipulation of “facts” and “secure” data by the master of the plan is so probable I have little doubt its really happening and it is scary. I could hardly put this one down.

— Jane Severson

Waterfall

by Lisa T. Bergren (young adult/teen fiction)

Gabriella’s boring summer gets a lot more interesting when she and her sister accidentally travel back in time to 14th Century Italy. Instead of exploring long-vacant archeological sites with their mother, the girls get caught in the middle of a war between Florence and Siena. Along the way, Gabi makes friends and enemies alike, including the handsome Marcello. I really enjoyed this book. It had plenty of action and a touch of romance. A great spring or summer read.

— Sierra Gunter

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 41

The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America

by Erik Larson (adult nonfiction)

This is the story surrounding the building of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and its indirect link to America’s first serial killer, H.H. Holmes. It is written in a nonlinear structure, bouncing back and forth between two men who are equally determined but on opposite sides of the good/evil spectrum. Upon Chicago winning the bid to host the fair, architect Daniel Burnham is given the task of building the best fair possible in hopes that it would give a more positive reputation to the city. He faces challenges in the form of death, weather complications, economic decline, and many others before successfully completing the fair. During this same time period, con artist H.H. Holmes moves to the city and uses his charm and manipulation skills in order to commit theft, insurance fraud and murder. Erik Larson does a phenomenal job of taking the lives of two men who never knowingly crossed paths and weaving them together to give a story like no other.

— Angie Judd

A Million Ways Home

by Dianna Dorisi Winget (youth fiction)

Priscilla Parker is an impulsive middle-schooler who has the talent of laughing at the most inappropriate times. But does “Poppy” have reasons for her nervous giggling? Grandma Beth, her caregiver, is hospitalized. A criminal is on the hunt for her because she can identify him from a crime scene. She is afraid she will have to stay at the children’s center, which she hates. But meeting Detective Brannigan, making a new friend in rebellious Lizzie, and falling in love with animal misfit Gunner is the recipe for turning Poppy’s hard times into a real homecoming. This book is a great family read-aloud and deserves its place among the 2016-2017 Mark Twain Award nominees.

— Verna Fry

Let’s Pretend This Never Happened (A Mostly True Memoir) and Furiously Happy a Funny Book About Horrible Things

by Jenny Lawson (adult nonfiction)

Laugh-out-loud funny. In fact, so laugh-out-loud funny you will wake your spouse or the baby you just rocked to sleep. Jenny Lawson’s books about the everyday mishaps that we want to pretend never happened are what make us who we are. These are funny books about living with mental illness. Funny and mental illness do not seem to go together, but Jenny Lawson pulls it off. Taking a quote from one of the books, “So, if you don’t like the book then maybe you’re not crazy enough to enjoy it. Either way you win.” I am crazy enough.

— Cheryl Williams

42 | MAY 2016

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CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 43

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Cutest Pet

Meet

Gracie Mae Haskins

She belongs to David and Karen Haskins of Wentworth.

May’s winner!

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.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 45

MAY 2016

Calendar May 1

n The annual Free Prayer Breakfast, sponsored by the Monett Chamber of Commerce and the Monett Ministerial Association will be held at the Monett Area YMCA at 7 a.m.

May 2

n Pierce City Arts Festival will be held at South Park, 100 S. Elm St., from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Free workshops, free admission. Free root beer floats at noon. For inquiries, call 417489-3041.

n SKITS will be performing “The Bold, the Young and the Murdered” at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. n The Monett Senior Center Dance will be held at the Monett Park Casino. Call 417-2353285.

May 4

n Blood pressure check, 10 a.m. at the Cassville Senior Center.

n The Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce will sponsor “Multi Species” Fishing Tournament.

n Blood pressure check at the Central Crossing Senior Center, Shell Knob, 10:30 a.m. to noon.

May 19

May 5

n Alzheimer’s Support Group meets at the Central Crossing Senior Center in Shell Knob at 2 p.m.

n The Cassville Lady Wildcat golfers will hold a monthly meeting and scramble. T-off is at 9 a.m. All lady golfers are welcome.

n Paint Class will be held at the Cassville Senior Center, beginning at 9 a.m.

May 20

n National Day of Prayer will be observed at the Central Crossing Senior Center, Shell Knob, at 11:45 a.m.

n The Chamber Golf Fry. Contact Brittany Farris at the chamber, 417-847-2814.

n Seligman Chamber dance, with Classic Country, 7 p.m. at the Seligman Event Center.

n The Central Crossing Senior Center Carnival will be held.

n Paint class will be held at the Cassville Senior Center beginning at 9 a.m.

May 6

n First Friday Coffee, sponsored by the Cassville Chamber of Commerce, will be hosted by the Cassville Main Street Association. For more information call, 847-2814. n The annual Mothers Day Lunch will be held at the Cassville Senior Center from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

May 7

n The 30th annual Dogwood Car Show on the Cassville square. For more information, call 417-847-2814. n The monthly dance at the Cassville Senior Center will be 7 to 10 p.m. n Cinco de Mayo Dinner will be held at the Shell Knob Holy Family Church.

May 14

n Kids Fishing Day, Roaring River State Park, 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. Call 417-847-2430. n Spring Train Ride to Van Buren, Ark., sponsored by the Seligman Chamber of Commerce. This is Arts and Craft weekend. Travel through the beautiful Boston Mountains. Call 417-662-3612. n Regular Saturday Night Dance at the Seligman Event Center. Call 417-662-3612.

May 15

n Spring Train Ride to Van Buren, Ark., sponsored by the Seligman Chamber of Commerce. This is Arts and Craft weekend. Travel through the beautiful Boston Mountains. Call 417-662-3612.

May 21

n The City of Purdy will be having a City-Wide Garage Sale. n Regular Saturday Night Dance at the Seligman Event Center. Call 417-662-3612.

May 25

COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS  The Parkinson’s Support Group meets at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 1600 N. Central in Monett on the second Thursday of every month. No charge to attend.

Call 417-269-3610 to register.  Celebrate Recovery meets at 7 p.m. at the Golden Baptist Church on Highway 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.  The Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Group of Cassville meets at 8 p.m. at 1308 Harold Street in Cassville on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays every month.  The Turning Point AA Group meets at 7 p.m. at the west corner of Mitchell Plaza on Hwy. 86 in Eagle Rock on Mondays and Tuesdays every month.  DivorceCare divorce recovery seminar and

support group meets at the First Baptist Church, 602 West Street in Cassville at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. Call for more information, 417-847-2965.  Cassville Al-Anon Family Group meets at 8 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in

Cassville every Thursday of each month.

May 27

 Narcotics Anonymous meets at 8 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month in the basement of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, located at the corner of Seven and Cale streets in Monett, 417-442-3706.

n OJ’s Hamburgers and Hot Dogs on the grill cookout at Central Crossing Senior Center, Shell Knob.

 Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month at the First Baptist Church Activity Center, 618 Second Street in Washburn. 417-489-7662.

n Women, Infants, & Children (WIC), Central Crossing Senior Center, Shell Knob. Call 417847-2114 or an appointment. n Birthday lunch at the Cassville Senior Center, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

May 28

n Open Air Market, sponsored by the Shell Knob Chamber of Commerce, will be held at the Chamber Park.

Central Crossing Senior Center

n Regular Saturday Night Dance at the Seligman Event Center. Call 417-662-3612.

Regular events:

Shell Knob, 417-858-6952

n Truck and Tractor Pull at Ruby’s Event Park in Seligman. Call 417-662-3612 or 479903-2311.

 Domino Poker, every day from 12:45 p.m.

May 30

 Paint Classes, every second and fourth Monday of each month.

n V.F.W. Memorial Day Remembrance will be held at Shell Knob.

 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.  Knitting and crocheting classes every Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m.  Pinochle, every Thursday from 12:30 to 3 p.m.  Cards Galore, every Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Wood Carvers, every Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Wii Bowling, every Wednesday. 12:45 to 3 p.m.

46 | MAY 2016

Learning from the face of evil

S

tudents at Monett Intermediate School and Monett High School this fall began exploring aspects of the Holocaust as part of their studies. These are neither history or social studies students. In fact, Holocaust studies appears in no material tested by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as part of an expected education.

This unique approach actually came out of an English class and a tour of Europe taken by two Monett teachers last summer.

Amy Sampson, who teaches 11th and 12th grade English, and Kristy Berger, who teaches sixth grade, introduced the Holocaust as background for writing, to engage their students in a topic that challenged their sensibilities and tugged at their emotions.

“With our curriculum, content is important,” Amy said. “They want you to assess a standard. If you write a narrative, it doesn’t matter what subject. I teach what I like. If we watch ‘Schindler’s List,’ kids can get many things to write about.”

Monett teachers retrace the Holocaust to invigorate writing and literature studies

Story by Murray Bishoff

“In one of the books, my sixth-graders read is a chapter from John Boyne’s novel ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas,’ written from the viewpoint of an 8-year-old whose father ends up as commandant of [the Nazi death camp at] Auschwitz,” Kristy said. “We’ve read it for five years as part of the communication arts curriculum. I also teach [Lois Lowry’s] ‘Number of the Stars,’” a book of historical fiction

The Monett teachers ventured to the Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp, which proved more difficult than many sites to reach. Anne Frank’s memorial stone is here. “The camp reminded us of Gettysburg — very serene and a place of remembrance and memorial,” Amy said.

about a Jewish family set in Copenhagen during World War II. “For me, it’s been wonderful to give them all of this history. The book covers a lot of standards: summary, plot and conflict. We can use any text to do that.”

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 47

Kristy Berger is pictured at Hitler’s Eagles Nest retreat, at rear, and the Sound of Music tour near Salzberg, Germany, over two days of their trip. “Both were very worth the time and money,” Amy said.

The strategy also fits into one of the newest educational trends: place-based education. By focusing a lesson around a specific geographic and historic site, teachers can open doors that provide rich context beyond the actual learning exercise. Place-based education is being used to study language arts, math, social studies and science and most any curriculum subject.

Using such a springboard, students migrate into Holocaust studies through eighth-graders reading “The Diary of Anne Frank” or music or history students watching “The Sound of Music.” Death camp survivor Elie Wiesel’s book “Night” that describes his own experience, has long been a high school curriculum read on the Holocaust. For Sampson and Berger, the subject gripped them more than casually dipping a toe into the lake.

They wanted the immersion experience.

They secured a grant through the Rural Trust Global Teacher Fellowship that Amy learned about through her professor at Missouri State University. Designed to help rural teachers expand their range of subject matter, the grant enabled the

two to design and take a study trip to 10 countries in 28 days. They visited more than 30 Holocaust museums and sites, traveling on 14 airplanes and 70 trains, up several mountains and two taxi rides on the salt mine tour. Having traveled together before, the two teachers worked for a year on the plan, selecting locations that would most benefit their presentations to students. Last summer they made the trip, then immediately brought their fresh experiences into the classroom.

Kristy targeted Auschwitz in Poland and Berlin, the beginning of “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas,” as well as Copenhagen, the setting for “Number the Stars.”

Amy wanted to see Amsterdam, the setting for Anne Frank’s recollections, and those of Corrie ten Boom, recounted in her book “The Hiding Place.” Kristy used

In Krakow at Remuh Cemetery is a wall consisting of Jewish gravestones destroyed in World War II. The Nazis would use the destroyed stones to create roads and walkways or sell them for profit.

48 | MAY 2016

photos she took at “The Hiding Place” in her classroom. Settings for “Schindler’s List” also became must stops. In all they visited four of the major death camps.

Of all their visits, the teachers wished they had spent more time in Krakow, Poland, with its deep Jewish history, where Oskar Schindler had his factory, not far from the Auschwitz concentration camp 44 miles away. Students in Amy’s class had to have their parents sign a release for them to see “Schindler’s List,” because of the film’s “R” rating. There was no disguising that students were headed into discomforting territory. Using the film as a touchstone, students witnessed prisoners discussing in disbelief the rumors of people being gassed, how some rubbed blood into their faces to look less emaciated to the doctors who could view them as healthier and maybe approve them for a work detail, thus a longer life.

“The Nazis planted flowers around buildings at Auschwitz, to make the place look normal,” Kristy recalled. “That, to me, is more evil than just killing. They’d tell people who arrived to remember where they put down their stuff so you can come back later, then sent them to

On the streets of Innsbruck, Austria, Kristy Berger, at left, and Amy Sampson, at right, visited a Kristallnacht memorial.

Fun side trips were also allowed on Verger and Sampson’s grant. They took Trabi cars, pictured, and drove them around Berlin. “It was very scary and we spent more time trying to survive not crashing and losing our guide than we did listening to the scenery he was describing,” Amy recalled.

the gas chamber. Something about that infuriates me. It’s genius in an evil way, how well thought out it was. People knew those things went on. Some thought they just put people in camps and it went bad.

No. Just to go and stand there, to hear the guides telling us about the gassing, how it worked, to stand on the platform where people arrived. That left a deep impression.”

“The camps were set up as factories,” Amy said. “If someone died, their hair was used to stuff mattresses. The ashes were used as fertilizer. Schindler saved people, but he also saved money using cheap labor. Everything had a purpose.”

Students ask why the prisoners didn’t rise up, why the prisoners were seemingly passively killed, by the millions.

The teachers found clues at the Sachsenhausen concentration camp near Berlin, where the Nazis attempted to manufacture masses of counterfeit money to wreck the economies of the Allies. There they had “Jews of privilege,” people particularly useful to the Nazis’ purposes.

They used privilege as a way to breed animosity and jealousy among the prisoners, to keep the victims from uniting.

That example offered ways for students to discuss unity as a social dynamic in the classroom.

“One man got put into a camp as a spy,” Kristy said. “He got out and alerted multiple countries. He was told, ‘This is a domestic issue’ and they would not get involved. At what point — even today — is it not a domestic issue? Our class ordered black bracelets that said, ‘What we do matters.’

“I told my 12-year-old students the people who lived outside the camps knew. What do we learn from that? I get all cry-ie when I talk about it. When I see small things going on around me that are not right, I will speak up. That’s one of the little things I can do as a human. What can a 12-year-old do? I tell them, when they see a kid playing by themselves on the playground, don’t let them. You can’t sit by and watch things happen. You have to be bold and do what’s right. If I lived at that time, I probably would have been scared and done nothing. We might as well learn from it. My students are still wearing the bracelets.”

The more the teachers delved into their subject, the darker the nature of the Nazi machine revealed itself.

“I didn’t know Hitler had a personal photographer,” Amy said. “You always think you’re seeing a reporter’s photo.

It was all staged.”

Kristy Berger is pictured by the original ghetto walls in Krakow, Poland.

“We notice how intricate and well-built the ghetto walls were. Much time and planning went into making them look almost beautiful.”

– Amy Sampson, Monett High School English teacher

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 49

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“Hitler was always photographed at a higher elevation,” Kristy said. “He always showed up late for events. Nothing started until he came, as a control move.

Sixth-graders can understand how controlling that was.”

“In Munich,” Amy said, “the tour guide talked about how fascinated the people were with Hitler. They would brush aside the terror.”

The meticulousness of the Nazis, their record keeping and their German penchant for “making the trains run on time” — a greater cultural obsession on precision than even what is seen in the United States, let alone other parts of the world — pervaded the Holocaust.

Victims arriving at death camps had to fill out a 12-page form, as if they were applying to a college.

“We asked why,” Amy said. “They said it was the German way.”

Much of those records survive, despite efforts to destroy them — voices that stand in testimony against the executioners. Even the prosthetic limbs of the victims were saved, another visual reminder for visitors of what happened at the death camps.

The trip held many memorable, not so chilling, moments. The “Sound of Music” tour packed a bus of 60 people from all over the world, who rode through the Austrian mountains singing the Rodgers and Hammerstein soundtrack.

The teachers recalled all the places they visited were free or at very low cost.

No effort is made to profit on the Holocaust, though at Auschwitz, “educational” materials are sold.

“We asked if the German people are against teaching their people about the Holocaust in schools,” Amy said. “They said they acknowledge it.”

“The government is trying to educate the public,” Kristy said. “It’s in their curriculum. They have to teach it. There are still some pro-Nazi sentiments. We didn’t run into that.”

The two teachers frankly say they could talk for hours about their discoveries. They have shared some of their

The Monett teachers found the Neuschwanstein castle, pictured at rear, was a tourist trap. The castle nonetheless had ties to World War II as the Nazis hid art here.

experience outside the classroom. In October, they made a presentation to the Monett community at the Monett High School Performing Arts Center, attended by 120 people, an evening that included authentic German food. In November, they spoke to the Monett school board.

Kristy taught her section shaped around the Holocaust as school opened.

Amy taught hers in the second half of the semester. Their classes combined to take 45 students to Overland Park, Kan., on a field trip to the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education. Students heard accounts of what happened from children of Holocaust survivors on video.

“My students loved it,” Kristy said.

“The center crammed in so much information. The kids confirmed what they had been taught. It was good closure to hear what they said.”

“For mine, it was a good introduction,” Amy added.

The teachers would like to go back to Europe and learn more. Amy noted a trip to Europe cost no more than a summer excursion to South America, where one would expect to find lower prices. 

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Front Street 417-835-8111 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 51

P HOTO S U B M I S S I ON S Do you have a photo you would like to see published in Connection Magazine?

Email it to connection@monett-times.com for consideration.

This photo was captured by Lori Adamson of Neosho.

Lisa Madison of Cassville captured this image on her farm one foggy morning.

Melissa Barrientos captured this photo on Feb. 1.

52 | MAY 2016

Ted and Susan Norris of Monett recently captured this photo of their azalea at their Eighth Street home.

This photo of Roaring River from the Devil’s Kitchen hiking trail was recently captured by Sharllana Vincent.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 53

These photos were recently captured by Esther Hightower.

54 | MAY 2016

These wildflower photos were recently captured by Linda McCaskill at Mark Twain National Forest.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 55

These photos were recently captured near Dry Valley and in the Wentworth area by Marian Mobley.

56 | MAY 2016

These photos were recently captured by Valerie Miller of Monett.

See more of Miller and Mobley’s work beginning on Connection contents, page 5 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 57

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‘Bring my father home’

V

alerie Wolfe was just 9 months old when her father, Air Force Capt.

Thomas Wolfe, a pilot, was shot down and killed in Laos in 1966. She is 50 now, and thinks it’s time — past time — for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to keep its promise to bring her father home.

“My father volunteered for duty in southeast Asia,” Wolfe said. “He was there a matter of months before he was killed. Originally listed as MIA, missing in action, that status was soon changed to MIA/BNR, missing in action, body not recovered, due to the official determination that no one could have survived the loss incident.”

Zack Pryse, Capt. Wolfe’s friend and former roommate, described the incident from letters he received from pilots in another aircraft that had observed the crash.

In his letter, Gene Alby, the navigator in Nimrod 31, the airplane that survived the reconnaissance mission, who saw the plane go in and burn, describes what he remembers.

Family of Air Force Capt. Thomas Wolfe wait 50 years

Story and photos by Melonie Roberts

A map, identifying the 1966 crash site where the remains of Capt. Thomas Wolfe of Monett and two other pilots are buried near Dong Hoi, North Vietnam. Although the site was identified in 1999 and approved for excavation, there has been no effort, as yet, been made by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, which has been tasked to do so.

CHINA

NORTH VIETNAM LAOS

DEMARCATION LINE

SOUTH CHINA SEA

THAILAND

CASE 0376

CAMBODIA SOUTH VIETNAM

GULF OF THAILAND

CAPT WOLFE, USAF

“As they flew into the area, Tom wanted to see where he thought he had spotted an anti-aircraft gun a few days before,” Pryse read. “They were flying low and slow, were shot and hit hard.

“Chuck Dudley [the pilot] was wounded, but he fought it all the way in. I heard him say, ‘I’m hit.’ His voice was blurred.

He knew he was going to hit the ground.

The navigator bailed out on the left side, but he got out too low. He deployed his chute, but landed in a bamboo thicket.

“I think Tom tried to grab the yoke.

The plane bucked up but then went in. I think Tom fell out. The left engine hit the

ground and the plane caught fire. [It was determined] there was no point in endangering anyone else. There would be no rescue mission that day.”

The bodies of three lost pilots remain in the jungles of southeast Asia, where time and the elements are not kind.

“We have done whatever we’ve been asked in order to enhance further progress toward remains recovery,” Valerie said. “Over the years, we have seen retrieval methods become better, and yield more results as scientific advances, such as DNA analysis, has led to new ways of finding and identifying remains.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 59

A lack of family involvement was cited by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency as one of the reasons the remains of Thomas Wolfe of Monett and two other pilots in the aircraft lost in action over Laos in 1966. Although the family has kept in regular contact with Army officials concerning the retrieval of her father’s remains from the crash site, which was identified in 1999, no action has been taken as yet. Members of the Wolfe family attended a recent public forum to show their unified support in the recovery effort. In the front row, from left, are: Valerie Wolfe, daughter of Capt. Thomas Wolfe, who is pioneering the excavation effort campaign, Norma Starbuck, Cathy Jean Starbuck and David Starbuck. Second row: Tom Wolfe, a nephew of Capt. Thomas Wolfe, Nan Wolfe, Edith Starbuck and Mike Starbuck. Third row: Chandler Cantrell, Dana Salsman, Garrison Cantrell and Steve Salsman. Back row: Margaret Salsman, Michelle Cullers, Nerissa Cullers and Crae Salsman.

“Over the years, our hopes have waxed and waned as the likely site was identified and then action delayed. Remains recovery is a daunting task and consumes DOD resources. The family has continued to be patient. We were confident the government was doing all that could be done.

“In 2002, we were told unexploded ordinance was a factor that made the site unsafe for excavation. At each update, we were given a timeline of five years as a reasonable estimate of when the site would be scheduled to dig.”

But at each update, the timeline was pushed further out on the master excavation list.

“Zack contacted my sister in 2012

60 | MAY 2016

and told her ‘family involvement’ was a factor in the decision process,” Wolfe said. “Neither my sister nor I wanted to believe that our level of caring was being assessed as a criteria of who they should go looking for overseas. We found out in 2015 that it was, and that the box as a family had not been checked, even though we had kept in regular, consistent contact for decades.”

Wolfe was devastated to learn recently that while the excavation site is close to the top of the master list, in all likelihood, it is not being seriously considered for selection due to a new policy, which prioritizes “cluster” sites, those that are geographically located close to one another.

Nan Wolfe is pictured looking at a display of photos, articles and memorabilia relating to Capt.

Thomas Wolfe, whose remains are still buried at the 1966 crash site near Dong Hoi, North Vietnam. Although the crash site was identified in 1999, Army officials have yet to begin excavation operations to bring the remains of Thomas Wolfe and two other pilots home.

Those interested in joining the campaign to bring Capt. Thomas Wolfe home are encouraged to write to: Sen. Roy Blunt, 260 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington D.C. 20510, www.blunt.senate.gov, or call 202-224-5721; Sen. Claire McCaskill, 730 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, www.mccaskill.senate.gov or call 202-2246154; Rep. Billy Long, 1541 Longworth HOB, Washington, D.C. 20515 or call 202-225-6536.

Valerie Wolfe, daughter of Capt. Thomas Wolfe, of Monett, the Air Force pilot shot down and killed in Laos in 1966, and for whom the Tom Wolfe Memorial Post 4207 V.F.W. in Monett was named. Valerie Wolfe is on a mission to have her father’s remains returned and entombed with the remaining family members at the Monett IOOF Cemetery.

“Time is not on our side,” Wolfe said.

“The longer they wait, the less likely there will be recoverable remains.

“One of the factors in our decision as a family to allow the process to work without family intervention was the knowledge that if our case moves a step closer to a conclusion, then another service member’s family must wait. Even with that in mind, we are no longer content to allow our loved ones to wait indefinitely while the fairness of the selection process breaks down. I was nine months old when my father was killed. I am 50 now. We have been waiting a very long time.”

Though is has been 50 years since that tragic loss, the family can’t move on.

Valerie Wolfe, daughter of Thomas Wolfe, the Air Force pilot shot down and killed in Laos in 1966, is pictured with Wolfe’s former Air Force roommate and friend, Zack Pryse.

“As the daughter of a MIA/POW, I can say my father’s loss has been incomplete and ongoing. I grew up in the shadow of that war. As long as there is the hope of bringing home some part of my father to bury with his family, I will not close that door. It is the price that family members pay when sending their loved ones to war. It is the price and the bond of those comrades that motivated Zack to seek out my family and work toward bringing my father home almost half a century after losing him.

These types of bonds transcend time.”

For much of the nation, the Vietnam era is an event no longer in sight in the rear-view mirror. Any lessons learned from that effort have, for the

most part, been forgotten among today’s youth and culture. But for the family of Capt. Thomas Wolfe, many questions remain.

“Does duty and honor have a shelf life? What responsibility does the nation owe to its members in uniform?

Is it enough to provide benefits and entitlements? Does that compensate for the loss of life when a nation sends its forces to war? How do we learn to talk about war and those who wage it for us? How do we learn to talk about death? Because that is what is risked and will always be a part of war.

“These questions remain for us,” Wolfe said. “For my family, my father’s war is not over.” 

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 61

Monett’s water reservoir:

A disappearing legacy Old photos of the reservoir have not surfaced, but in scenic shots, like this century-old postcard of the public garden in the street at the intersection of Fifth and Wishart, the standpipe next to the reservoir is visible in the background.

I

t sits along the alley, between Benton and Wishart Street in Monett. A nearly block-long concrete structure, too tall to easily climb, cream colored from the stucco sprayed onto it, an odd looking rectangular building, very solid and somewhat mysterious.

Without doors or windows, it’s hard to tell that this massive structure was built as a water reservoir, holding 880,000 gallons. Other than the big overflow pipe projecting out of the west wall, it does not look like a building with any function. Yet it has served Monett for about 100 years, and soon will disappear completely.

In 1955, Monett’s water system underwent major changes. The city had been cited for serious deficiencies by state officials. The water reservoir became a big part of the issue at the time.

At the time the reservoir had an open top, the water exposed to the elements

62 | MAY 2016

before being pumped to homes for general consumption.

Soon to become ancient history, the reservoir still has a story to tell.

According to records from 1955, the city’s water system was established in 1898. The first water rates, supporting a citywide system, were adopted in 1921. It looks like the city didn’t even number its wells prior to 1915, which leaves quite a few, including the famous well and horse trough at Central and Broadway undocumented. The reservoir was built next to well No. 1 and a 100-foot-tall standpipe, about 10 feet in diameter located at its south end to provide pressure to the city’s residents.

There was a relatively small number of residential customers at the time. The Frisco Railroad had its own well, and the ice plant, built at the east end of Broadway, had its own well, leaving the reservoir to support residential use. A concrete ring sits on the grounds today,

marking where the 100-foot standpipe once stood. In early photos of Monett, the standpipe sticks out, one of the few easily identifiable landmarks.

The 85,000-gallon standpipe was still standing in 1955. Pete Rauch, retired Monett utilities superintendent, figures that it wasn’t needed much after the city built a second standpipe southeast of the City Park Casino in 1939, on higher ground and holding 475,000 gallons, providing more pressure for the city system than the old one.

It was taken down in 1961, four years before the 1 million gallon tank was built next to the IOOF Cemetery in 1965, which took over providing pressure for the north side of town.

“Over the years, the city kept improving,” said George Rausch, the retired assistant utilities superintendent who worked under Pete Rauch. “A sys-

Story by Murray Bishoff

Above left: Monett’s original public swimming pool, from a historic postcard.

According to Pete Rauch, the pool was refilled every Thursday night with frigid water straight out of the ground, fresh but cold for swimmers Friday morning.

tem that worked just fine became obsolete.”

Records for construction of the reservoir vary. Some date it back to 1904 with the building of the adjacent standpipe. In 1955 they thought the reservoir only dated to 1918.

In the summer of 1954, a survey of the city’s water system by the State Division of Health triggered a call for covering the reservoir, largely for sanitation purposes. In addition, the town appeared on the edge of a population boom. Projections based on post-war growth

Above: The Monett Times newspaper account of the need to cover the reservoir in 1955, showing the structure open to the air before voters authorized a lid for it.

made it look like the city would nearly reach its present population size by 1980 — too big for the water system of the day to support. A special election was called for Feb. 24, 1955, and residents passed a $340,000 bond issue to make a variety of major water system improvements, including construction of two new wells. The bond passed by a vote of 921-673, topping the needed super majority by only 10 votes. In the same election, two sewer proposals gained a simple majority, but not enough to pass.

The reservoir stayed, and re-

mained in use until 2015, when the new water treatment plant, with its 1 million gallon storage clear well, made it unnecessary. In March, the Monett City Council approved demolition of the reservoir.

“It’s cool in there,” said George.

“They put up concrete pillars with flutes extending from the top to support the roof. It looks like an Egyptian temple in there. It’s a little scary. Confined space regulations are rigid. You don’t go in there unless you follow all the procedures.

It also had a lot of sediment on the bottom.”

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 63

“There’s clay in all the city water mains,” Pete said. “It’s just part of it.

When you figure how many hundreds of millions of gallons of water circulated through the reservoir, you’d expect that.

Most of it is inert clay or sand. When they painted the standpipe at the No. 12 well at North Park in 2008 or 2009, the one that’s prone to muddiness, it had two feet of sediment in the bottom since the last time it was freshly painted around 1987.

There will be far less of that with the new water plant. It takes all of that sediment out.”

The lack of a cover on the reservoir didn’t seem to hurt anybody, even in the days before chlorination, a fact that seems amazing under today’s scrupulous health standards.

“My grandfather, George Schwandt, had a boarding house at Sixth and County streets, about 100 yards from the reservoir,” George said. “We’d live there for a while and visit all the time. Us little kids would get out, clamber up the west side of the reservoir and toss our puppy dog in.

He loved it. We never swam in there, but I don’t know about other kids.”

“You can be sure the other kids knew about it, and who knows what they did?”

Pete said. “It was open to every form of bird and squirrels.”

“And possums and snakes,” George continued. “I’d go up on the cover in recent years and find keys and leaves and beer cans on top. No reason to think

The reservoir, looking north from the west corner.

people didn’t toss things up there then.”

“If they pumped directly out of the well, that water must have been crystal clear,” Pete observed. “It would be like the old, old swimming pool, before 1965.

It didn’t have a filtration system. They’d fill it up on Thursday night and the water would be ice cold. I’d dread swimming lessons on Friday morning. You’d be blue in five minutes. By next Thursday evening, it looked like 30 miles of bad road.

It was pretty nasty.”

When 1999 ended, there was fear that the world’s technology network would collapse when the clocks rolled over to a new millennium, or didn’t. Pete and George were both on duty that night, just in case. While Pete drove around the city in an old 1990 Chevy pickup “with a two-

acre-long tube radio” inside, checking on utility systems, George stood on top of the water reservoir.

“I remember checking my watch until 1 or 1:30 p.m.,” George said. “And the world did not come to an end.”

Throughout its history, the reservoir seldom caused any problems.

“We would get an occasional call, or we’d see water running across the alley from the north to the south side of Bond Street, four blocks away from the reservoir, and we’d know the reservoir was overflowing. We’d have to turn the well off,” Pete said. “It didn’t leak. It did its job.”

Steve Roden, the city’s water department foreman, confirmed that assessment. He recalled inspecting the inside of the reservoir in 1986, patching a few potential cracks, but never finding a leak.

The only problem he could recall came from DNR inspectors complaining about trees growing in the seam of the roof, which city crews removed, but have tried to grow back.

“The night of the Sears fire [April 9, 1992, the last Monett fire fatality], the reservoir pumped 800 gallons a minute into the system,” Pete said. “It could pump roughly a third of the city’s demand on the system for a day. We had to do that several times to let some of our wells become unmuddy again.”

An old entry point into the reservoir, long unused.

64 | MAY 2016

“Nothing was chlorinated, that open reservoir would have had dead animals, you name it, in it.”

– Skip Schaller, Monett Utilities Superintendent Looking south, a view from the roof of the reservoir, as Steve Roden, water department foreman, opened the hatch over the wall dividing the reservoir into north and south halves. George Rausch said second walls were added across each section to help support the roof.

Skip Schaller, the city’s current utilities superintendent, said that in recent years, he had crews pump about 60 percent of the reservoir back into the system once a month, just to keep the water fresh. After the reservoir came offline last year, the well was reset to pump directly into the water system. Schaller looks back in amazement at the reservoir and how the city did business then.

“It was the wild, wild west then,” Schaller said. “It amazes me that there wasn’t more health-related issues. Nothing was chlorinated, that open reservoir would have had dead animals, you name it, in it.”

“The exterior was the maintenance issue,” Pete said. “The stucco spalled off. It was a constant graffiti magnet. The reservoir had far outlived its useful life. It owed the city nothing. It did exactly what it was designed to do. I don’t think DNR [the Department of Natural Resources] particularly liked it. It was an ancient technology. Other than the paint, I don’t think it had any comments [from regulators].”

Demolition plans call for breaking in the roof and knocking the walls into the lower part of the reservoir, which extends around six feet below grade, then covering it with dirt. The concrete ring for the old standpipe will come out, as well as the old wellhouse. A small building will remain for the chlorination process.

The entrance into the reservoir, showing one of the original T-valves for controlling water flow in the reservoir.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 65

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A clear view of one of the reservoir pillars, offering the Egyptian tomb-like atmosphere inside the sealed reservoir.

Pete and George had best wishes for contractor Vaughn Dirtworks in doing the deconstruction, but voiced reservations about how easy the job would be.

“The lid is eight inches of concrete, all rebarred,” Pete said. “The whole thing is so full of rebar that it’s not going to be peck-peck-peck it out like other jobs.”

“I know that when we built the chlorine room in the mid-2000s, in the area between the well house and the reservoir we found concrete footings and pipes, a long, undocumented history of building things up there,” George said.

“It’s all unknowns as to what’s there. It’s a well-built structure. The more I think about the reservoir, it had no interior coating or membrane. As far as I can tell, it was trouble-free for 110 years.”

Mayor Mike Brownsberger requested that the Monett Historical Society have an opportunity to retrieve remnants of the structure for its collection before it entirely disappears. 

The Monett Times’ 1961 account of the demolition of the standpipe next to the reservoir, viewed from the alley on the west side of the reservoir. The description of the city’s water reserve structures shrank over the years.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 67

T

‘Feed my sheep,’ ‘Herd my cats’

Mastering with a Hula Hoop is a skill that eludes many, but equipment purchased with grant funding for the the Pierce City after-school program offers participants the opportunity to stand out from the rest. Third-grader Ellizabeth Sprinkles showed her prowess with the hoop.

Healthy Schools/ Healthy Community Initiative expands after-school program into Pierce City 68 | MAY 2016

he Pierce City Baptist Church is bursting with activity.

Walk in on a Wednesday afternoon after school, and small children may come running up to you as they dash down the circular hallway making laps. In an activities room, intermediate to high school students may be engaged in different group games.

In the gym, mostly smaller children will be running, jumping, playing with basketballs and hola-hoops, or wriggling around on saucer scooters that require a gyrating motion to achieve forward momentum.

Welcome to the after-school program, a collaborative effort between the church, the Pierce City R-6 School District and the Healthy Schools/Healthy Communities Initiative, funded by the Missouri Foundations for Health. Pierce City has become an outreach project for the Monett program run through Cox Monett Hospital.

According to Shawn Hayden, coordinator for the community outreach with Cox Monett, Pierce City offered a logical choice for expanding Monett’s effort. The after-school program offers many of the same opportunities Monett children have through the after-school program run by the Monett Area YMCA. “In starting the program, we wanted to create a productive environment for the children of Pierce City to go and engage in physical activity after school,” Hayden said. “Working with the school system, we provided transportation for the children to try to remove all potential barriers for families busy in the afternoon. Partnering with First Baptist Church provided us a large space for physical activity, and a motivated partnership.”

Story and photos by Murray Bishoff

Middle school-aged children played the game of Unscramble after all linking hands and arms during the after-school program held at the First Baptist Church in Pierce City. (below) A big part of the after-school program in Pierce City involves providing a healthy meal and snacks for the children participating. Students dig into their meal after an hour of rigorous activity.

“When I started here two years ago, this was a very quiet place,” said Pastor Ryan McMillian of the First Baptist Church. “I prayed, ‘God, send us some resources that we can engage the community.’ We tried an outreach like this for kids last July, which was our first effort. I got wind that the Missouri Foundations for Health might have some some funding available. Shawn and I sat down at the beginning of the school year and began planning. Now here we are.”

Plans originally began for an 1-1/2hour session after school on Wednesdays for 55 children. Now, the program reaches 75 — the maximum number that will fit in the school bus that brings the children. Children check in when they arrive and stay in a locked-in, supervised environment. As spring weather becomes more accommodating, more activities will shift outdoors. A portable soccer net is one of the pieces of equipment purchased with grant money. McMillian said the church will soon receive a large piece of playground equipment to further recreation options.

A big part of the program is feeding the children. Deborah Hewitt, who coordinates the meals, arrives between 2:30 and 3 p.m. to begin preparing meals.

At about 4:10 p.m., all the children get snacks. After another hour of activity, the three groups return to the gym for a full meal.

“We stay close to the food pyramid guidelines,” Hewitt said. “We stay away from fatty, sugary foods. We go through the Cox Monett Hospital dietary plan.

Tonight, we’re having turkey and noodles and carrot sticks. We serve at least two vegetables and fruit. Our pasta and bread are whole wheat. We have apple and cheese

snacks. When we do wraps, we have spinach and turkey and chicken. Black beans make a good filler.”

“What I learned through this program is kids are hungry,” McMillian said. “We feed them and they just keep eating. About 80 percent of students in the school district are on free and reduced-price meals.”

“Ryan and the volunteers at the church have been amazing in preparing healthy snacks for the children, using the equipment and curriculum provided by the HSHC grant, and always has fun physical activities that keep the children engaged,” Hayden said. “In the beginning, I could only dream of the support that we have received from the FBC volunteers.

With the size that the program has grown

to, it is a fullfledged community effort between the school, church, and CoxHealth. To assure that all 60-plus children have a great experience at this program is a team effort, and one that could not be done without our volunteers.”

The program can expand further. McMillian faces two major constraints. One is the cost of adding an additional bus

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 69

to bring more children. The second is his volunteers. Presently, about 16 volunteers come each week to help. The numbers of children keep all the adults fully engaged, though some of the older children can help direct the young children.

“It’s really rewarding,” said Pierce Gibson, the church’s youth pastor, who works with the older children. “It’s a commitment we’re willing to take. It’s challenging. Sometimes it’s like herding cats. It’s a lot for two people to do when you have 25 to 30 in a group.”

“We’ve got more recruiting to do,” McMillian said. “We’re making it work.

We’re really beginning to pick up younger families. When I came here, the average age of our church families was 60. Now it’s 30.”

The program has grown to a second hour for those families who give permission for their children to stay for a Bible study. Penny Dean Smith, a longtime church member who volun-

70 | MAY 2016

teers, stressed that the church offers no pressure on families, but simply makes the opportunity available. For those who stay, the church provides transportation home in its van.

Otherwise, parents drive in to pick up the children.

“Ninety percent of the children are sticking around for the second hour,” McMillian said. “It’s given us a way into the community.”

The program will continue through summer school in June, take the rest of the summer off, start again when school resumes, taking a month off for Christmas.

You could call it group problem solving. A group of girls figured out how “It is our hope to retrieve a tossed object from the top of padding around the gym in the Pierce City First Baptist Church during the after-school program, a sponthat the program taneous effort that would have tickled their adult supervisors. becomes a staple in the Pierce City community,” Hayden said. “As this effort progresses, we hope to add more plans to have its food bank distribute days to the after-school program, hold about 3,000 pounds of healthy produce community events at the church, and and other food a month — first to the expand the summer program at the 30 families participating in the Healthy FBC. We could not be more grateful Schools/Healthy Communities Initiafor the volunteers and staff at the First tive, then reaching out the families in Baptist Church that have made this pro- Wentworth and Pierce City with limgram possible.” ited resources.

Having engaged with the commu“This is an incredible program,” nity to a greater degree, McMillian has McMillian said. “With grant money, found additional doors opening. The the school district, the hospital and the church recently signed an agreement church can work together to help our with Ozarks Food Harvest to serve as kids. We need more of that. It’s what a grocery outlet in the same manner this country was founded on. that the Monett Community Kitchen “If Washington, D.C., could see how offers a distribution center. McMillian this works, we’d get more done.” 

Column

A house divided can stand

Creating a better country and world for our children

E

ach month, two magazines show up in our mailbox. And as fate would have it, many times they show up on the same day. One is “American Hunter,” a publication by the National Rifle Association, and the other is “Sierra,” the Sierra Club’s publication (I often wonder if the mailman envisions a “house divided” scenario).

My husband is a lifetime NRA member. He has guns, he shoots guns, he hunts. I am a Sierra Club board member. I also have a gun.

Though I prefer observing wildlife when I’m out in the woods, I’m also an advocate for responsible hunting (and I enjoy making venison chili, yum!) I’m convinced that if we could invite political leaders from all ilks into our household for a month, we would probably hammer out the solution to world peace — or at least accomplish more than the two major parties have of late.

I grew up in a small town in the Ozarks around guns. My father is a Vietnam veteran and retired police officer and has always had a knack with guns. If you needed your gun fixed and brought it to someone else to fix and they had no luck, you would then bring it to my dad and he would find the solution. It wasn’t uncommon, as a teenager after school, to guzzle O.J. straight from the bottle while glancing into the dining room to see the table covered with towels and gun parts and my father hunkered over them, meticulously repairing some gadgetry.

It goes without saying that I grew up with a healthy respect for guns.

My mother attended the University of California-Berkeley in the late 1960s. She was sprayed with teargas at protests. I can probably end

my description of her gun beliefs there. If mom was in the kitchen at the same time, there would also be some grumbling.

Growing up in a household with beliefs on opposite ends of the spectrum, gave me a unique perspective.

It made me realize how both the spirit that moved my father, and the one that moved my mother — as different as they are — helped shape this beautiful country.

One of our America’s great success stories is that of the bald eagle. In the 1970s, we nearly extirpated the bald eagle with DDT, a toxic pesticide. But we tossed our egos and political ideologies aside and we banned the use of DDT, and the eagles returned, because of us. Because we came together and made a bold decision.

I believe that spirit can be revived.

There is no good reason to be held hostage by our differing ideologies that aren’t all that different in the end. We all want to live a good life.

We all want a promising future for our children.

Weather systems are getting more volatile. The big argument is whether we are causing this climate change. As a trained environmental scientist who has analyzed the evidence, I believe we are contributing. Perhaps you believe we aren’t and this is all a natural cycle, and

that’s just fine. However, arguing that point has lost us precious time and resources. As scientist David Suzuki observes, “We’re in a giant car heading toward a brick wall and everyone’s arguing over where they’re going to sit.”

One of the keys to combating climate change is transforming our energy system. Outdated, unrenewable energy, like coal, puts carbon into our atmosphere. More acutely, it allows toxins like mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium (and the list goes on) into our land and water. Thankfully, many local utilities are taking action now and integrating wind and solar into their energy portfolio. City Utilities in Springfield has its own solar farm and recently invested in wind energy, which will potentially serve up to 30 percent of its customer base.

This is the direction we need to move for many reasons. And if you don’t agree based on the environmental degradation it causes, or even the health issues it causes, then consider this: Coal is a finite resource — like land — they aren’t making anymore. One day, it will run out. Our decision to move forward with renewable energy before it’s too late is fundamentally a smart and necessary one.

Since our coal is shipped into the state, there are little to no economic

jennifer conner has a bachelor’s degree in conservation and wildlife management from Missouri State University. She worked as an environmental specialist for the state of Missouri for six years before moving to southwest Missouri with her husband Mark and daughter, Aarilyn.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 71

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benefits for Missourians. However, companies in Missouri who install solar panels and build wind turbines are growing exponentially, due to recent commercial and personal investments in renewable energy.

So what do we mean when we talk about “dirty” energy and how does it affect you? My local Sierra Club group is attempting to stop the construction of a coal ash landfill in Springfield on delicate karst terrain. We’re not just doing it to be annoying, spoil-sport, tree-huggers.

Karst topography is characterized by sinkholes, caves, and springs. It’s what gives the Ozarks its charm.

Unfortunately, it’s also extremely sensitive. Because of the fissures and porous nature of the rock, material that is dumped on the surface of the land easily makes its way into our groundwater, which means it makes its way into our wells.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has already denied the site due to the “significant potential for catastrophic collapse.” There are more than 30 sinkholes on the proposed site. However, City Utilities had a special bill written in the legislature, allowing them to move forward with a detailed investigation.

Another sad example of politics trumping science.

Coal ash is a toxic brew of arsenic, lead, chromium, cadmium and a slew of other heavy metals that can cause significant health issues, especially in children. My commitment to stopping this landfill doesn’t stem from some lofty ideal. Simply put, I don’t want my 3-year-old daughter drinking toxins that could severely debilitate her and even cause death, especially when there is a simple solution — transport the material to a stable site. We are hopeful that City Utilities officials will make the right decision for the health of the people they serve. Their recent significant investment in renewable energy shows that they are moving in a more sustainable direction.

As you can see, environmentalism (which has become a dirty word in some circles) is inextricably tied to the health of our families. If toxins get in the water, fish die and our children also suffer the consequences. Heavy metal toxicity causes a whole host of health issues, including learning disabilities, neurological defects and cancer. One needs only to read about the water crisis in Flint, Mich., and the children with irreparable brain damage, due to lead toxicity in their drinking water, to gain an understanding of just how delicate our drinking water sources are in an industrialized society.

Being a conservative and wanting to protect the environment, which ultimately translates into protecting the health of our families, shouldn’t be considered mutually exclusive.

Just as being a Sierra Club member and owning a gun, like myself, isn’t anomalous. If my gun-wielding Vietnam vet father can be married and live in the same household with my pacifist, hippie, mother for 36 years — if Mark and I can sit down together with our morning cup of coffee and simultaneously read and discuss the NRA and the Sierra Club — then Republicans, Democrats, and all the other parties can sure as heck find some common ground.

You yourself may not care much about saving the trees, the fish and bears, but in the wise words of Chief Seattle “Man did not weave the web of life — he is merely a strand in it.

Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.”

We are all biologically connected.

When we poison the fish, we poison ourselves. More important, we are all connected by a thread we don’t typically talk about in the political realm: love. Once, we saved the bald eagle from a sense of patriotism, for a deep and enduring love for country.

Regardless of your political beliefs, I submit to you the idea that there is no greater patriotism than creating a better country and world for our children and their children.

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417-737-1206 Josh Copeland • superiorsprayfoammo.com

Happy Mother’s Day! Place your Graduation bakery orders now.

• Enamelware • Unique cutting boards • Bulk candy & spices

THE JANE STORE A unique Ozarks experience

2980 Rains Rd., Jane, Mo. • 417-226-1234 We serve breakfast and lunch!

Tuesday - Saturday 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ila Bohm’s Home DÉcor & Gift Store

“There’s No Place Like Home” Bridal & Baby Registry, Home Decor, Candles, Jewelry, Handbags, Greeting Cards, Gourmet Foods, etc.

123 Madison, Downtown Aurora, MO 65605

Mon - Sat • 417-678-4462 www.ilabohms.com

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 73

Ava Belle’s

ANTIQUES & FLEA MARKET Vintage furniture • Used appliances Antiques • Collectibles Home decor items

ENJOY THE FREEDOM

Large new room with furniture & appliances!

108 S. MADISON DOWNTOWN AURORA

417-678-2210

Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Sun. 1 - 5 p.m.

www.freedombk.com of Southern Missouri Please allow 48 hours for special

ice cream cake orders.

1000 N. Central Monett

235-7188 74 | MAY 2016

ShELL Knob CASSVILLE 97 S. Main Street 24828 Hwy 39 417-846-1719 417-858-3136 SELIGMAn WILLARd GoLdEn 36042 Hwy 86 502 S. State Hwy AB Hwy 37 S. 417-271-3814 417-742-1776 417-662-7000

Familiar Faces Trinity Lutheran hosted its

annual carnival fundraiser March 11.

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PO Box 37 • 816 Broadway Monett, MO 65708 jjfloor@suddenlinkmail.com

1. Britt Schroeder with daughter, Letta Schroeder, 6 months.

2. Annabelle Combs and Krysta Combs.

3. Leah Knight and grandpa David Brittenham.

4. June Fritz with granddaughter Madilyn Fritz.

5. Linda Wiehe, Summer Enlow and Christine Wiehe.

6. Karen Kleiboeker and Margaret Kleiboeker.

7. Emily Peters and Katie Brittenham.

8. Lillie Wormington and Ayden Elmore with grandpa Deryll Wormington.

9. Fred and Pam Schoen.

10. Kim Jelinek with her little buddy, Archer Mattlage, 4 months.

“A Little Store With Big Savings” Residential & Commercial Owned & Operated by Jim & Jayne Terry

Bus. (417) 235-0016 Fax (417) 235-6364 Res. (417) 442-7974 CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 75

The annual benefit for St. Mary’s Catholic

School in Pierce City, played by local musician Mark Chapman and his band, was held on April 9 in the school gym.

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10 1. Chrishna Paul, Jenny Elbert and Andrea Ehrhardt 2. Scott Jones and Michele Hendrix 3. Macy Fenske and Andy Parrigon 4. Shanna and Russell Chapman, Eric Chapman and Amanda Miller 5. Robyn and John Kleiboeker and Kevin and Neysa Kleinman 6. Tami and Greg Kruse and David and Rachel Luebbering 7. Ed and Becky Golubski

12 8. Michelle Browning, holding Declan Browning, and Christopher Browning 9. Ralph Abramovitz, Carl King and Brad Gripka 10. Marge and Don Gripka 11. Gary Schad and Dennis Camp 12. Dena and Jason Chapman

Familiar Faces

Tour de Cass fundraiser for Crowder College and the Cassville Golf Club

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Mindi Artherton, Mindi Gates, Dusty Reid and Robbie Artherton.

Chris Seymour and Robert Foulke.

Rick Ragsdale and Ron Stafford.

4. Lori Barnes, Janet Taylor and Paul Taylor.

5. Valarie Hutchens and Rhonda Stafford.

6. Angela Seymour, Mary Cupps and Don Cupps.

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5 Soroptimist Club of Barry County’s

St. Patrick’s Day Potato Bake

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1. Pat Chapman and Misha Blakely.

2. Tammy Littleton, McKenzie Kochell and Alli Cannon.

3. Dennise Wierman, Kim Harris and Trinity Hartin.

4. Cheryl Williams, Donna Malloms, Debbie Gerleve and Kasey Crawford.

5. Allison Angel, Jill LeCompte, Robin Mattingly and Donna Harrington.

6. Mindi Artherton, Brittany Farris and Beth Hudson.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 77

Members of the Southwest Missouri Chapter of Whitetails Unlimited hosted

the fourth annual banquet

March 19, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church multipurpose room in Pierce City.

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1. Hailey Buckner, 7 months, with mom, Carmella Buckner 2. Shelby Oakes and Jake Chadd 3. Chase Yarnall and Lucas James 4. Marissa Winnett and Kayla Martinez 5. Lisa Kafer and Madison Kafer 6. Madison Easley and Brooke Cahalan 7. Chris Cendroski and Kris Strouse 8. Callie and Allen Barbre 9. Sheila Guinn and Keith Guinn 10. Amzel and Micky Ball 11. Kendall Francisco, 1 year, and Chelcie Francisco 12. Bryar Stubblefield, 9 months, and Lane Stubblefield

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We repair hail damage!

Wild Game Feed

The Monett Sportsmen’s League held its annual on April 14 at the organization’s complex at the old weather station grounds southeast of Monett.

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1. Richard Simpson and Pat Woods 2. Pauline and Cliff Daniel 3. Andy Reavis and Rodney Pianalto 4. James Smith and Doug Browning 5. Kenny Eimer and Kale Wade 6. Rick Crawford and Dan Nestleroad 7. Eric Sarver and Dan Musgrove 8. Alice Moreland and Rick Conway 9. Tyler Abramovitz and Ryan and Morgan Hodges 10. Henry Reed and Hunter Browning 11. Ron Wormington and Glenn Jarvis 12. Lauren Sarver and Ron Branum

Familiar Faces CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 79

My

Local residents took Connection Magazine with them on their “Sisters-Daughters-Nieces-Cousins” trip to New York City in March. Pictured, front row: Glenda Gunter, Deana Hughes and Kinzey Stellwagen. Back row: Kyla Stellwagen and Jesika Banta.

Don and Janie Bates of Monett are pictured holding a Connection Magazine in front of Queen Victoria’s statue at the Parliament Building in Nassau.

David and Donna Beckett of Monett took Connection Magazine with them to the NCAA basketball Final Four in Houston.

80 | MAY 2016

Bob and Laura Allen took Connection Magazine with them on their trip to Surprise, Ariz., to watch the Kansas City Royals at Spring Training.

Ad list Acambaro Mexican Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . 6 Four Seasons Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Peppers and Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ava Belle’s Flea Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Four States Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Race Brothers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Barry Electric Coop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri. . . 74 Rainbow Gardens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Bennett Wormington Funeral Home. . . 20 Grande Tire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Ramey / Price Cutter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Bentonview Park Health & Rehab. . . . . 44 Guanajuato Mexican Store & Restaurant. .

Roaring River Health & Rehab. . . . . . . . . 15 Burrus Jewelers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Scott Regional Technology Center. . . . . 29 Carl Pyper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Gunnels Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Second Chances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Carolyn Hunter, DMD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Houlihans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Security Bank of SWMO. . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Cassville Health & Rehab. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Ila Bohm’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Shelter Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 CJR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 J&J Floor Covering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Smile Designers Dentistry. . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Coast to Coast Home & Auto. . . . . . . . . 72 J. Michael Riehn, Attorney . . . . . . . . . . . 34 State Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Community National Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Jana Bricker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Superior Spray Foam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Cornerstone Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Just B Massage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Swartz Tractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Connection magazine will26 continue be offered free to anyone in34our distribution area.

Country Dodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ken’sto Collision Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Taura Farms Greenhouse. . . . . . . . . . . . .

43 Cox Medical Centers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Lackey Body Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 The Jane Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Crane Family Dentistry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Lacoba Homes Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Tomblin’s Jewlery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Have Connection delivered Dairy Queen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Les Jacobs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Tragdon Marshall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 right2 to Tried your&doorstep $40 a year.72 Diet Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Macadoodles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

True Candlesfor & Tans. . . . . . . . . .

Doug’s Pro Lube. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Meeks Building Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Whitley Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Eastside Church of Christ. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Mocha Jo’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Willis Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Edward Jones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Monett Main Street. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Youngberg Chapel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Farm Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Oak Point Assisted Living. . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Ziggie’s Café. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 First State Bank of Purdy. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Old Town Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Fohn Funeral Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Ozark Methodist Manor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cassville 72

Take a break with a leisure read.

Call: 417-847-2610 417-235-3135 Mone

Take a break with a leisure read.

Connection magazine will continue to be offered free to anyone in our distribution area.

Have Connection delivered right to your doorstep for $40 a year.

Call:

417-847-2610 Cassville

417-235-3135 Monett

subscription Name: Address: City: Phone:

State:

I have enclosed $40 by check (check number

Zip:

Please fill out this form. Send the form along with your chosen form of payment to The Mone Times, PO Box 40, Mone , MO 65708 or PO Box 486, Cassville, MO 65625.

) for one-year subscription to Connection magazine.

I have enclosed $40 by money order for a one-year subscription to Connection magazine.

I have enclosed credit card information to be billed $40 for a one-year subscription to Connection magazine.

Card No. Exp. Date

Parting Shot

Photo by Randy Branum of Monett

“All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”

— Abraham Lincoln

82 | MAY 2016

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SCHeDule AN APPOINtMeNt ANytIMe! ANyWHeRe! Life just got a little easier. Access our schedule online at your convenience.

To reserve an appointment visit: www.carolynhunterdmd.com and select the “click to schedule appointment” button at the bottom of the page.

New Patients Welcome!

Carolyn Hunter DMD

77 Smithson Drive, Cassville, MO 65625 www.carolynhunterdmd.com

(800) 639-4959 or (417) 847-2461

Why Assisted Living?

• Dentures, Partials & Bridges • Crown & Veneers • Routine & Periodontal Cleanings • Implants • Sleep Apnea Appliance • Adult Ortho

At Oak Pointe of Monett, support, relationships and comfort come together to create a community that residents proudly call home.

Private apartments and suites accommodate couples or individuals Freedom from home maintenance, cooking, and chores A quiet, residential location that is minutes from Monett’s commercial districts

CALL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!

417-235-3500

OAK POINTE OF MONETT 1011 Old Airport Road Monett, MO 65708

OakPointeMonett.com

OPENING JUNE 2016!

CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 83