LOVE LETTER Issue No. 56

LoveLETTER Issue No. 56 • Summer 2012

Construction Underway on Springfield’s

Second Ronald McDonald House

®

In late March, construction began on our second Ronald McDonald House®, located on the 6rh floor of Mercy Children’s Hospital in Springfield. Mercy has provided over 8,200 square feet of space for the new House that features 10 bedrooms, each with its own

bathroom. Mercy is also contributing significant ongoing operational support including utilities, phone and Internet service, linens, towels and maintenance services. RMHC® of the Ozarks is responsible for the costs of infill, furnishings, supplies, on-going staffing and remaining

operational costs. “We are looking forward to furthering our longstanding relationship with Ronald McDonald House Charities® of the Ozarks,” said Jay Guffey, Chief Operating Officer of Mercy Hospital Springfield. “Partnering to provide CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Inside This Issue: PMS 193

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PMS 116

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House Manager, Donnetta Ghys with William and Kennedy Vaught of Kirbyville, MO at the Mercy Ronald McDonald House press conference. The Vaughts stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for over 5 weeks when their baby brother, Wyatt was hospitalized.

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www.RMHCozarks.org

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012

A Message From the

President & CEO

Board Of Directors David Hamm, Chairperson Bob Fisher, Vice Chairperson Doug Carter, Secretary Barbara Houser, Treasurer Brian Asberry Gretchen K. Cliburn Andrew Covington Jean Grabeel Sherri Murdaugh Angie Patrick

Marita Pemberton Donna Powers Rob Rector Tim Roth Micah Scott David Taylor

President & CEO Bonnie Keller Program Director-Ronald McDonald House Staci Holland House Manager Donnetta Ghys Associate House Manager Bailey Shaw Program Director-Ronald McDonald Care Mobile Mindy Muñoz Event Coordinator Adrienne McCoy Development Assistant Kim Booth Accounting Manager Debbie Kinser Comunications Assistant Karen Doman Assistant House Managers Lauren Divine Brent Stock Morgan Jensen Sheridan Thurman Angela Hill Randi Villines

Board Of Directors Dr. Aaron Dannegger, Chairperson Dr. Tom Hoff, Vice Chairperson Joseph Reid, Secretary Wyatt Jenkins, Treasurer Dr. Bill Brell Dr. Craig Scott Mark Brueggemann Dr. Howard Shayne David Hamm Dr. Megan Westrich President & CEO Bonnie Keller Program Director Mindy Muñoz General Dentist Dr. Sarah Cimino Temporary Dentists Dr. Bill Brell, Pediatric Dentist Dr. Aaron Dannegger Dr. Tom Hoff Office Manager & Dental Assistant Davina Easter Dental Assistants Megan Lambert Laura Polocoser Part-Time Dental Assistant Shannon Rogers

We are thrilled to re-introduce the LOVE LETTER, our biannual newsletter for supporters of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks. Over the past few years, we’ve been hard at work helping families at the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South; treating and educating little patients on the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile® (also known as the “Tooth Truck™”); and bringing plans to fruition for the construction of Springfield’s second Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital.

Despite the tough economic times, YOU’VE BEEN THERE to ensure that our programs continue to help children and families in need.

WE ARE TRULY INSPIRED by the many ways you offer your support.

Every night, one of our Family Dinner groups provides a wonderful meal for all of the families at the Ronald McDonald House. Day after day, we witness the generosity of individuals and businesses that contribute on-going financial and in-kind gifts. Over 120 dedicated volunteers support the operations of the House and the Tooth Truck, not to mention dozens more that

are there for our events. And our boards of directors and staff demonstrate their commitment each and every day. How blessed we are to witness these and many more ways you give of your time, treasure, expertise and hearts!

So many of you have increased your support to help build the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy and we are truly grateful for your kindness and confidence as we once again grow our organization to help hundreds more families of seriously ill children each and every year. For those of you just learning about our new House, we hope you will consider being a part of making this new “home away from home” a reality.

We hope you enjoy this issue of the LOVE LETTER. We’re honored to name each and every one of you as members of our RMHC Family.

Sincerely yours, Bonnie Keller President & CEO

P.S. Every previous issue of the LOVE LETTER is posted on our website at www.rmhcozarks.org, News and Events tab. It’s a great trip down memory lane!

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of the Ozarks is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well being of children in the Ozarks. Our first priority is to provide a “home away from home” for families of seriously ill and injured children receiving treatment in Springfield’s medical facilities. Our first Ronald McDonald House, located near Cox South Hospital, has helped over 8,000 families during the past 24 years. Our second House will be located on the 6th floor of Mercy Children’s Hospital and will open in lateFall 2012.

RMHC’s second cornerstone project, the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®, (fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”), provides dental treatment and prevention education for children that qualify for the free and reduced school lunch program in the Springfield area. The Tooth Truck has helped 13,000 children over the past 10 years through 34,000 dental appointments and treatment valued at $7.6 million.

The LOVE LETTER is published biannually by Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks, Inc. Graphic Design made possible through a gift from ADsmith Communications.

Page Design contributed by Debbie Lane.

The following trademarks used herein are owned

by McDonald’s Corporation: Ronald McDonald House Charities name and logo, Ronald McDonald House name and logo, Ronald McDonald Care Mobile name and logo, RMHC, McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald. The Tooth Truck name and logo are owned by The Tooth Truck, Inc.

LoveLetter • Summer 2012

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The Tooth Truck Celebrates

10 years of service!

A special celebration for the 10th anniversary of the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”) was held on July 10 at the Boys & Girls Club Musgrave Unit in Springfield.

Over 200 Boys & Girls Club kids and staff, the media and Tooth Truck and RMHC board members and staff joined in the festivities, which included singing “Happy Birthday” to the Tooth Truck.

Thanks to Ronald McDonald House Manager, Donnetta Ghys, and the House volunteers, delicious sugarfree cupcakes were served to all in attendance.

Launched in July 2002, the Tooth Truck is a full-service dental clinic on wheels for children that qualify for free and reduced school lunch. Enrollment in Medicaid is not a requirement for treatment.

The Tooth Truck primarily visits local schools; 25 locations in Springfield as well as schools in Billings, Clever, Republic, Walnut Grove and Willard. In the summertime, children served by local agencies such as Boys & Girls Club, Boys & Girls Town and the Missouri Hotel are provided with dental treatment. The philosophy of the Tooth Truck is to find the children most in need, restore their smiles 100%, place as many sealants as possible, provide extensive prevention education, and then encourage and assist patient families to find a permanent dental home. During the past 10 years, the treatment plans of over 13,000 children have been completed through nearly 34,000 appointments and dental treatment valued at $7.6 million.

All services provided by the Tooth Truck are free to qualifying patients. The operating budget exceeds $600,000 annually, 45% of which is underwritten by Medicaid reimbursements. The remaining $330,000 is supported through generous donations from the community, including major support from the Greater Springfield Dental Society, the All-Star Smiles Sertoma Club and the Rotary Clubs of Springfield. The Tooth Truck staff encourages families to enroll their children in Medicaid to help supplement needed funding for the Tooth Truck and so families may seek ongoing medical care for overall good health.

For more information, contact Mindy Munoz, Program Director, at 417-875-3504 or mindy.munoz@ toothtruck.org.

Boys & Girls Club Musgrave members Gage and Phillip enjoy their sugar-free cupcakes at the Tooth Truck’s 10th anniversary party.

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012

Pilot Tooth-Brushing

Program Launched

Isaac is proud of his beautiful, healthy smile.

The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile is proud to announce the successful launch of an in-school tooth-brushing program in October 2011 at Springfield Public Schools’ Early Childhood Shining Stars Center. The goal of the program is to start teaching children at a young age the importance of good dental hygiene in order to achieve healthy, bright mouths and smiles.

The Tooth Truck staff worked closely with school staff, teachers, and classroom aides to facilitate ap-

some, they struggle with sensory issues so simply holding the toothbrush in their hand for one minute was a huge step. Volunteers spent six days in the classrooms and in that time, huge strides were achieved. Children who initially refused to brush their teeth were soon the first in line. Each child now recognizes that brushing time is part of his/her daily schedule and looks forward to it. One parent shared that her child is now letting her brush his teeth at home when

Tooth Truck

Wish List Please consider underwriting

an item on our Wish List. For details, contact Mindy Munoz at 417-875-3504 or mindy.munoz@ toothtruck.org.

Shore Power Connection ($1,800) 6 needed for new sites Replacement Trim and Handles for Tooth Truck Cabinets Cloud Ceiling Panels ($250 each) Walmart Gift Cards for general supplies DVDs for ages 10-14 years to view during treatment Handheld Games for use in waiting area Tooth-Brushing Models for education Small Prizes for prize bin, especially those for boys New Handpiece System ($12,500) Statim Sterilizer ($8,000)

General Dentist Dr. Sarah Cimino and Dental Assistant Laura Polocoser help prepare patient Aiden for his dental appointment. The Tooth Truck staff works hard to ensure each child has a positive dental experience and helps equip him or her to establish healthy dental habits.

proximately 200 students brushing each day in their classrooms.

Seventeen volunteers from the Tooth Truck, Ronald McDonald House and the community committed their time working one-on-one with students to offer hands-on support and encouragement for them to establish a daily brushing regime in the classroom setting.

Volunteers directed each child to obtain the toothbrush, apply toothpaste, and thoroughly brush his/ her teeth while offering words of praise. Many of the children have special needs and were hesitant to participate on the first day. For

before it was a constant struggle.

The Tooth Truck supported the program through monthly and as-needed site visits, in addition to providing all brushing and storage supplies. Thanks to the ongoing commitment of the school’s teachers and staff, we expect these children to experience fewer cavities and overall increased self-esteem and dental health, and hope that the habit of good oral hygiene is implemented consistently in their homes. Due to the success of the pilot program, the in-school toothbrushing program is being expanded in the Fall of 2012.

LoveLetter • Summer 2012

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RMHCozarks.org

Visit Our New Website!

We’re pleased to announce the launch of our brand new website at www.RMHCozarks.org and it’s packed with information about every aspect of our Ronald McDonald Houses and the Tooth Truck. You can download a volunteer application, tour the Tooth Truck through a child’s eyes, learn how to get involved in our Family Dinner Program, make an online donation, and much more!

The design of the website is the creation of ADsmith Communications, an ongoing contributor to Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks. We especially love the home page header (shown above), created by Senior Art Director, Shannon Perryman.

The programming of the site was made possible through a significant discount from Darren Furr, also the

contributor of the Taste of Adventure website (www.tasteofadventure.org).

Over the next few months, we have several video additions planned. You will meet our Room Sponsors for the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital and we’ll continue our weekly Road to Mercy House construction updates (see right) generously sponsored by Rick’s Automotive.

You’ll also be able to tour both Ronald McDonald Houses online.

We hope you’ll take a few moments to visit our new site. Be sure to sign up for our

email list (www.rmhcozarks.org/ contact-us). You’ll be the first to receive all of our news and updates.

Ronald McDonald House

Wish List Please consider underwriting an item on our Wish List for the House near Cox South. For details, contact Donnetta Ghys at 417-875-3501 or donnetta.ghys@ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

Spray Disinfectant Donations towards Replacement of Dish Detergent Original Windows Laundry Detergent Pillows (Standard Size) Laundry Baskets Metal Shower Rings Rubbermaid Containers Paper Towels (Various Sizes) Clorox Wipes

Ziploc Bags (Various Sizes) Silverware Frying Pans 1-inch White Binders Brooms Mops Copy Paper (8½” x 11”)

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012

Gift Registries help furnish the

New Ronald McDonald House Silverware, plates, towels, pots & pans … the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital needs it all! We’ve set up Gift Registries at four locations that contain all of the items needed for our future guest families. All

we are missing is YOU! See the instructions below about how you can access the registries and purchase your “Housewarming gift” OR you can host a “shower” at your home, church or business.

Please join us in making our new

Ronald McDonald House a wonderful home! For more information, contact House Program Director, Staci Holland at 417-875-3521 or staci.holland@ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

GIFT REGISTRY INSTRUCTIONS Dillard’s Registry number: 125732776 20% Discount off our registry items.

ONLINE: Search “Registry” in the box at the top right. On registry page, enter Ronald (first name), House (last name,) and Find. Ronald McDonald House registry shown in blue. Click on link.

Kohl’s Registry number: 1684514 15% Discount off our registry items ONLINE: Click on Gift Registry.

Click Special Days and enter Ronald (first name), McDonald (last name).

The first “shower” benefiting the Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital was held on April 3 at the home of Nancy Back. Dozens of guests enjoyed a wonderful spread of homemade finger foods and desserts provided by our hosts, Nancy Back, Terri Libel and Kristy Bowenschulte. We are grateful for the many wonderful gifts we received that are needed to make our new House a home.

Walmart Registry number: 86170592051 ONLINE: Hover cursor over registry and select “Wish List” (third option below Baby and Wedding). Enter Ronald (first name), McDonald (last name), and Find. Select Ronald McDonald House from registrant list.

Target Registry number: 017399100774955 ONLINE: Go to Target Lists (NOT Registries). Click on Advanced Search (small blue letters in “Find a Target List” box. Select “by organization” and enter “Ronald McDonald House” and select Missouri. Click Search. When the list comes up select Ronald McDonald House, created for Ronald McDonald House- Mercy Hospital Springfield.

The future exterior of the new Mercy Children’s Hospital is shown above. The new Ronald McDonald House will be located on the 6th floor and will be completed in late Fall. First floor construction is expected to be completed in December 2012 and will feature the St. Jude Clinic, as well as food service, retail and research areas and the Teddy Bear Club. The second floor will be completed in 2013 and will contain a Pediatric Outpatient Test & Treatment Area and Child Life support services. A future construction timeline will be determined for the 5th floor, which will contain 24 inpatient beds.

LoveLetter • Summer 2012

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Ronald McDonald House near Cox South

Helps 8000 Family th

During the month of July 2012, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital welcomed its 8,000th family. Over the past 24 years, this “home away from home” has helped families of seriously ill and injured children receiving treatment in Springfield hospitals during a time of unspeakable hardship.

As we look towards our 25th anniversary on March 20, 2013, we would like to thank our friends at Cox South and the thousands of individuals, groups and businesses that have made the Ronald McDonald House possible. After opening debt-free in 1988, the House has continued to be blessed by the citizens of the Ozarks with donations of time, resources and talents. Our families express their thanks in so many ways for a warm, loving refuge, home-cooked meals every night of the week by generous

folks from the community, and the daily support of our 100+ volunteers and staff.

Through the work of STRY.us, we’d like to share the story of the Crigler family from Alton, MO. (STRY is a new type of news organization in pursuit of great storytelling.) Beginning February 18, 2012, the Criglers found a temporary home at the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South for 46 days after the premature birth of their son, Stormy. He was born at 26 weeks gestation weighing 1 pound, 12 ounces. About her family’s stay at the House, Stormy’s mom, Bobbie said, “They always had a place for me. I would just have to call on my way up and they would have something ready.

If it wasn’t for them, I don’t know

what we would have done.” We hope you’ll take a few minutes and ready the Crigler’s story at www. stry.us/stories/a-second-home-onthe-medical-mile. We can’t think of a better way to demonstrate the many ways you have impacted the lives of people like the Crigler family ---- now multiplied 8,000 times!

We thank all of our wonderful supporters. You’ve done great things for thousands of families who need you.

The Glendale Interact Club provided two meals for our families in January 2012. They chose to participate in our Family Dinner Program to better serve families and children going through difficult times in their lives. It was the perfect way for them to work together and serve others in a special way. Interact is Rotary International’s service club for young people ages 12 to 18.

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012

Special thanks to our initial supporters

of the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital Springfield’s second Ronald McDonald House is a long-awaited project that has been discussed for many years. RMHC and Mercy formally committed to building this “House within a hospital” in 2003. As Mercy Hospital’s growth rapidly increased, the plans for the timing and location of the Ronald McDonald House understandably changed on more than one occasion. To ensure long-term success, it became critical that the plans for the Children’s Hospital coincide with the building of the Ronald McDonald House. Once the timing was just right, the completion of architectural plans, bidding of the project and establishment of the project budget all took place within four short months and construction began in late March.

On behalf of the Ronald McDonald House Charities Board of Directors, Chairperson David Hamm announced a 12-month fundraising goal of $1,824,689 at a press conference on March 29, 2012. This goal includes construction, fittings, furniture, supplies and the first year of operating expenses for the new House. As of July 20, over 40% of the goal has been raised. We’ve been blessed with many generous contributors, some willing to pledge support to our project as early as 2003 without knowing where the House would be located in the hospital, the opening date, or the project budget. Thanks to the strong support of Mercy, we can assure our donors that their investment in the House will be long-lasting. If hospital growth requires the House to be moved before a period of 25 years has passed, the House will be reconstructed in the new location at no cost to Ronald McDonald House Charities and all original donors will continue to be recognized for their support.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following generous supporters that are making the new Ronald McDonald House a reality!

Cash Donations $50,000 - $99,999 McDonald’s Ozark Co-Op

$20,000 - $49,999

Dan & Lisa Blumenstock and Kris & Wendy Davison Fuldner Family Foundation Dr. Bernard & Regina Griesemer Louis & Caroline Griesemer Guaranty Bank Norma Hilburn, Andi Hilburn-Vaini and Marc Vaini The Kemper Foundation Chip & Teresa McGeehan Mercy Clinic Force for Good Donna J Powers Family Foundation Ozarks Coca-Cola / Dr Pepper RMHC of ARKOMA State Farm Agents of Southwest Missouri* John Widiger, Chuck Wiersch and John Youngblood

$

1,824,689

1,500,000

$

1,000,000

$

500,000

$

Goal: $1,824,689 Current: $756,667 $5,000 - $19,999

Associated Electric Cooperative, Inc. Empire Bank Clayton & Bonnie Keller Roy & Terri Libel Mark & Angie Patrick James & Barbara Squires

$1,000 - $4,999

Anonymous Evelyn Close Carpenters’ District Council of Greater St. Louis & Vicinity Commerce Bancshares Foundation Coventry Health Care, formerly Mercy Health Plans Tom & Susan Essman Hillcrest Presbyterian Church Brett & Barb Houser Ann Howard Robert & Suzanne Israel Kirkpatrick, Phillips & Miller McAnany, Van Cleave & Phillips Mercy Hospital 2007 Sunshine Run Neale & Newman, LLP

2005 Ozark Upper Elementary Student Council Mark & Angie Patrick Rotary Club of Springfield Southeast Silver Dollar City “Pennies from the Porch” Walmart Foundation Bob & Debbie Williams

Contributors

Terry & Kim Booth Julie Boyce Julie Clark Sharon Combs Davis, Lynn & Moots, PC Greg DeGood Elkland Christian Church Paul & Shawn Fry Darren & Lea Ann Gee Amy Grubaugh, in memory of Neal Grubaugh Gayle Hoogstraet Tim & Debbie Kinser, honoring Dick, Sherley & Rich Bott Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary #9533

Margaret & Mike Licata Marshfield Optimist Club Morgan Restaurants, Inc. Gay Ross Michelle Sappington, in loving memory of Jesse Linda Schieber Springfield Public Schools School Nurses Jami Uhlman

In-Kind Gifts $50,000+

Mercy Hospital Springfield

$20,000 - $49,999

Ashley Furniture HomeStore, Andrew Covington

LoveLetter • Summer 2012 In-Kind Gifts (continued) $20,000 - $49,999 DeWitt & Associates Heideman Associates Stahl & Ponder Tempur-Pedic

$5,000 - $19,999

ADsmith Communications American Olean Tile Amtico Brian Asberry CIS Data Services Crossville Interior Planning Consultants InterMetro Industries Corporation La-Z-Boy Laborers Local Union #663 Marshall-Waters-Woody Obelisk Home Rick’s Automotive Stanley Security Solutions

$1,000 - $4,999

American Detection Benjamin Moore & Co. Binswanger Glass FOX KRBK-TV The DuPont Company – Corian Solid Surfaces

Contributors

Brandsource Lori Chisholm Dr. Bernard & Regina Griesemer

RMHC Board Chairperson, David Hamm, announces the fundraising goal for the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy at a press conference on March 29, 2012.

Charlie & Frances Iglio Keurig Coffee Maker & K-Cups Milliken Rolland Safe Company Springfield Blue Print & Photocopy

Gift Registry Donations In-Kind Gifts

Alpha Delta Pi- Gamma Mu Chapter Nancy Back Phyllis Bailey Beta Sigma Phi Terry & Kim Booth Bradley & Kristy Bowenschulte Carlee Brown Larry & Lynn Burk Sarah Carder Rod & Marilyn Chana Julie Clark Peggy Clemons Kitty Crider Cheryl Doran Early Childhood Center Eastside General Baptist Church Karen Fete Mike & Debbie Freeman John & Carolyn Gerdes Caroline Griesemer Olin & Margaret Grooms Bess Hamilton Carolyn Hamilton Tana Hazen Jann Holland

Cash Donations

Randall & Teresa Bailey Tom & Suzy Barr Bernard & Roberta Brownell Marilyn Burkhardt Karen Burmood Guy & Betty Callaway Kevin & Kerri Corner Joanie Cutbirth Curt & Julie Evenson Rose Foster Paul & Debby Freiman Gifts from the Heart Larry & Paula Glossip Caroline Griesemer David & Sandra Harrison Norma Hartman Arthur & Karen Hawes Duane C. Hellam Donna Howell Sally Jenkins Jeanie Kleeman Loretta Knutson Susan Metzger Thomas & Marcia Nelson LeAnn Rens Scott & Mary Rhodes Sue Rollins Beth Rutherford Greg & Charlotte Shireman Teri Sickmyre Gary Soderberg William B. Stocker Larry & Maryann Wakefield David & Donna Williams J. Mark Wilson

*Rob Akers, Jim Anderson, Giana Andrews, Linda Andrews, Doug Baker, Toshua Barnes, Victor Beasley, Katherine Bell, Kathy Binkley, Bob & Carolyn Bishop, Mike Breeding, Mario & Vera Brichalli, Sandra K. Brown, Business Research Group, Kylee Campbell, Scott Chase, Bryant Chastain, David Coday, Chet Cornelison, Charles Crider, Matthew Davidson, Phil Davidson, John & Barbara Farrar, William Foster, Edgar Freund, Lance Haight, Jeff Hammock, Fred Harle, Fred Harris, Clint & Amanda Harris, Jennifer Hazelrigg, Burlin & Arlene & Hefley, Jordan Heinz, J. Kyle Hickam, Fred Hynes, Bill Johnson, Wes Knell, Chuck Medley, Wayne & Susan Moberly, Jeffrey Montgomery, Frank Orellana, Shane Parker, Lori & David Peitz, Randall Peper, Jim Peters, Jerry Poston, Jim Reed, Ronald Reynaud, Joe Robles, Jr., James Roebuck, Karen Rutledge, Marjorie Slayton, Vic Stuart, Tony Williams, Karla Woods, Kris Yocum

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The Need Our first Ronald McDonald House is located near CoxSouth Hospital, approximately 3 miles from Mercy Children’s Hospital. Over 25% of families served at our first House have children being treated at Mercy Hospital and over 95% of these families have premature babies and highrisk pregnancies. For most families of ill children being treated in Mercy’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Burn Unit and St. Jude Clinic, the anxiety of being so many minutes away from a critically ill child is overwhelming. For these parents, the new Ronald McDonald House within the hospital will give them the opportunity to rest and recharge, regardless of whether or not they will be using overnight accommodations. They will have the reassurance that their ill child is down the hall or an elevator ride away and they will allow themselves to get the rest they need, refuel, and do everything possible to care for their ill and injured children. With the establishment of the new Ronald McDonald House within the walls of Mercy Hospital, we can finally fulfill our mission with the vast majority of the families of seriously ill children receiving treatment in Springfield. As we fulfill the physical needs of our guests each day with shelter and other amenities, we know that meeting others who truly understand, eating meals together that are prepared by volunteers, and the knowledge that generous contributors are willing to make the House a reality brings a healing to their spirits and hope to their lives.

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012

All-Star Weekend

Benefits the Tooth Truck Local high school athletes were featured in two all-star events June 1st and 2nd at Springfield’s Parkview High School. Football allstars competed for the 11th year in the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC (GIC), (that’s right ... it’s “GRIN” rather than “GRID”), an East vs.

West competition Friday, June 1 at JFK Stadium. NEW THIS YEAR was a girls’ all-star volleyball tournament on Saturday, June 2 in the Parkview High School gymnasium – the Sertoma GRIN ACTION CLASSIC (GAC). This All-Star Weekend featured 126 graduated high school seniors and 24 coaches competing with some of the best athletes in Southwest Missouri.

The West Team took home the victory for the GIC, winning 38-18.

It was a very exciting game! The West Team MVPs were Sam Rehagen from Nixa for Offense and Isaac Samek from Bolivar for Defense. The East MVPs were Malachi Daniels from Branson for Offense and Michael Salts from Camdenton for Defense.

The GAC North Team claimed the title of the GAC Tournament.

They went undefeated for the day and beat the West Team in a thrilling championship game. The MVP

for the North Team was Claire Quinn from Glendale and Hannah Blount from Carthage was named as the West Team MVP. The MVP for the South Team was Maddie Baumann from Clever and the MVP from the East Team was Callie Lowry from Logan-Rogersville.

About the “GRIN”? The GRIN IRON CLASSIC (GIC) and the GRIN ACTION CLASSIC (GAC) benefit the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (also known as the “Tooth Truck).

Although the competition was the main attraction, the GIC also featured tours of the Tooth Truck, the National Guard color guard and tricycle races, a visit from Ronald McDonald®, concessions and commemorative programs and t-shirts.

The GRIN IRON CLASSIC was presented by Delta Dental of Missouri and the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club. Other sponsors included the Greater Springfield Dental Society, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Great Southern Insurance and Spring Valley Dental Care.

The new GRIN ACTION CLASSIC

was also presented by the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club and sponsored by Distinctive Dental Solutions. Both events were also sponsored by The Team, McCann Printing, Mediacom, KOLR-KOZL, Price Cutter, Mercy and McDonald’s. Hosted by the SW MO High School Football Coaches Association and the All-Star Smiles Sertoma Club, the GIC and GAC raised nearly $50,000. For information about the 2013 events, contact Event Coordinator Adrienne McCoy at 417-875-3522 or adrienne.mccoy@ronaldmcdonaldhouseorg.

L to R: Adrienne McCoy, Event Coordinator and Bonnie Keller, President & CEO are shown during halftime at the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC, accepting the annual Greater Springfield Dental Society gift and sponsorship for the Tooth Truck from their Board President, Dr. Darren Mahaffey.

LoveLetter • Summer 2012

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Construction Underway on Springfield’s Second Ronald McDonald House (Continued from Page 1)

this opportunity inside our hospital to families of our patients is something we are very excited about at Mercy, and we are thrilled to be moving forward with this vision we have shared for many years.”

The House features large common areas, including a Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Playroom, Gathering Room, Laundry Center and public restrooms.

A new pediatric intensive care unit will be built right next to the new House. Each night, ten families may stay overnight in the Ronald McDonald House. Families not requiring overnight stays are welcome during daytime hours to catch up on e-mail, have a snack or meal, do laundry, take a nap, and most importantly, have some downtime to talk with family, friends and other guest families in

similar situations who truly understand. This daytime-only feature allows Springfield families to benefit from the Ronald McDonald House.

David Hamm, the Board Chairperson of Ronald McDonald House Charities feels strongly about the efforts of the board, volunteers and staff over the next 8 months to complete the $1.8+ million fundraising goal. “I know from personal experience how much the Ronald McDonald House means to families of ill children,” said Mr. Hamm. “It is truly an honor to serve as the organization’s chief volunteer officer as we work towards bringing this second Ronald McDonald House to many more families in need.”

RMHC President & CEO Bonnie Keller, served as the Volunteer Executive Director during the construction of Springfield’s first Ron-

ald McDonald House. “The support of Springfield and surrounding communities is amazing to witness,” said Mrs. Keller. “Nearly 25 years ago, our first Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital opened debt-free, thanks to the generosity of the people of the Ozarks. We urge everyone with a heart for our mission to help repeat this success with our second Ronald McDonald House.” We hope you can join us in making the new House a reality. There’s a donation envelope in this newsletter OR visit www.Road2MercyHouse.org to download a pledge form. For more information, contact Bonnie Keller at 417-875-3503 or bonnie.keller@ ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.

The new Ronald McDonald House will begin helping families in late Fall of 2012.

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012

Thank You

On behalf of the thousands of children and families whose lives are touched by the Ronald McDonald House of the Ozarks and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”), we extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our generous supporters. The pages of this LOVE LETTER include contributor names for gifts received from January 1 through April 30, 2012. If we have inadvertently omitted your name, please let us know by calling 417.875.3503.

RMHC Major Cash Donations

McDonald’s Ozark Co-Op RMHC Global

Cash Donations Erica Bauer Sapphire Vending, Inc. Dennis & Eileen Pegg Heather Varner

McDonald’s Donation Boxes

(formerly “Collection Canisters”) Joyce Lathrop McDonald’s-(Aurora) McDonald’s-(Ava) McDonald’s-(Battlefield & 65) McDonald’s-(Battlefield Mall) McDonald’s-(Battlefield) McDonald’s-(Berryville) McDonald’s-(Bolivar) McDonald’s-(Branson Hills) McDonald’s-(Branson Main) McDonald’s-(Branson West) McDonald’s-(Branson-248) McDonald’s-(Branson-76) McDonald’s-(Buffalo) McDonald’s-(Camdenton) McDonald’s-(Cassville) McDonald’s-(Chestnut) McDonald’s-(E. Sunshine) McDonald’s-(Eldorado Springs) McDonald’s-(Eureka Springs)

To see a listing of donations received since our last newsletter was published in 2008 through December 31, 2011, you can access a special supplement to this LOVE LETTER at www. rmhcozarks.org/newsevents/newsletters.

McDonald’s-(Forsyth) McDonald’s-(Gassville) McDonald’s-(Harrison) McDonald’s-(Hollister) McDonald’s-(Houston) McDonald’s-(Independence) McDonald’s-(Kearney) McDonald’s-(Kingsley) McDonald’s-(Lebanon #2) McDonald’s-(Lebanon) McDonald’s-(Marshfield) McDonald’s-(Monett) McDonald’s-(Mt. Vernon) McDonald’s-(Mtn. Grove) McDonald’s-(Mtn. Home McMart) McDonald’s-(Mtn. Home) McDonald’s-(Mtn. View) McDonald’s-(N. Glenstone) McDonald’s-(Nixa) McDonald’s-(Osage Beach) McDonald’s-(Ozark) McDonald’s-(Republic) McDonald’s-(Rogersville) McDonald’s-(Rolla Hypoint) McDonald’s-(Rolla McMart) McDonald’s-(Rolla) McDonald’s-(S. Campbell) McDonald’s-(S. Glenstone) McDonald’s-(S. National) McDonald’s-(Salem) McDonald’s-(Seymour) McDonald’s-(Sprfld-C65) McDonald’s-(Sprfld-K44) McDonald’s-(St. James) McDonald’s-(St. Robert) McDonald’s-(Strafford) McDonald’s-(Thayer) McDonald’s-(W. Battlefield) McDonald’s-(W. Sunshine) McDonald’s-(Waynesville) McDonald’s-(West Plains-Porter) McDonald’s-(West Plains) McDonald’s-(Willard) McDonald’s-(Willow Springs)

Community Donation Boxes Children’s Orchard

Wishing Wells

McDonald’s-(Battlefield Mall) McDonald’s-(Ozark)

The Home Depot Team has volunteered with our Family Dinner Program for over 12 years, serving warm, homecooked meals for our families and children.

Ronald McDonald House Bequests

Christine Drake Estate

In Kind Gifts: Building & Equipment Fund Binswanger Glass

Major Cash Donations

BNSF Railway Company Roger Howard Clear Channel Radio: KGBX, KGMY, KXUS, KTOZ Daiwa Capital Markets Dillard’s, Inc. David & Kimberly Hamm Kohl’s Cares for Kids

Cash Donations

Roger & Kimberly Allen Anonymous Bank of America - Matching Gifts Bolivar FCA Doug Carter Roger & Lisa Clark Coca-Cola Company Cowden Elementary School Crazygood Erica Eaton Diane Epke Michael & Ellen Finch Sheena Followill Scot Gabriel Todd & Donnetta Ghys J.D. & Jacqueline Gillenwaters Peter Haviland Michelle Hensley Johnnie & Jeana Herbert JDP Management Company, Inc. Carol Johnson James Jones Leah Kimberly Charles Kimmel Dale & Kimber Kyle Mark Twain Elementary Mindy McFarland Todd Mela Nixa High School-Helping Hands Club Bambi Oliphant Ozark Bank Rob & Kelly Rector Jim & Laura Rowe David Sanford Mary Smith Springfield Area Retired Teachers Association Springfield Lutheran School Miranda Tharp The Log Works Dewey & Carrie Hostetler Carolyn Joan Thornhill Robert & Gena Vick Rena Watts Kim Zimmerman

Brett and Charles Fancher are excited to take their beautiful daughters Jade and Jazmine home after a two-week stay at Cox South ICN. Former Assistant Manger Emily Carter with Ronald House volunteers Kim Stagner and Sondra Uzzell enjoy holding the girls one last time before they go home.

Ellie Webb celebrated her 8th birthday by asking for donations for the Ronald McDonald House instead of gifts.

Ellie raised $200 for our families and children.

Memorial Contributions

Kenneth G. Squire by Jim & Barbara Cook

Mary Lu Adams by Cox Urgent Care

Ruth Taylor by Delores James

J.T. Atkinson by Jack & Marianna Cotten

Gifts of Tribute

Dorothy Atwell by Martha Frost

Chip & Teresa McGeehan’s Anniversary by Jim & Joan Cologna

Kim Ebrite by Delores James

Jim & Donna Erwin by Beulah Erwin

Sam Grisham by Norma Hilburn

Debra Parrish by Beulah Erwin

Myrna Hauer by Thelma May Yandell

Underwritten Guest Room Fees

Jay Johnson by Ruth Ann Johnson Blanche Lefler by Joann Laux Michael Robert Lemieux by Carla Bean Rev. Fred Lynn by Beulah M. Erwin Irene Salsman by Denis & Diana Neumayer Darrell Sligar by Denis & Diana Neumayer

Rev. & Mrs. W.T. Robison, in memory of Kevin Robison

2011 Annual Campaign ADOPT A ROOM FOR A YEAR Anonymous ADOPT A ROOM FOR A QUARTER Robert & Suzanne Israel in memory of Ralph & Dulcie Israel and Paul & Lois Campbell

LoveLetter • Summer 2012 Joe & Marilyn Post ADOPT A ROOM FOR A MONTH Decker & DeGood P.C., Greg DeGood Kelley & Nancy McKenzie MAJOR CONTRIBUTORS Bonnie Atteberry Don & Ernestine Doss ADOPTION OF A FAMILY FOR ONE WEEK Joseph & Lesa Rothgeb Melvin & Linda Walker ADOPTION OF A FAMILY FOR ONE NIGHT Terry & Jill Bounds Loren Clayton, in memory of Dorothy Rook Pete & Sandy Emberton Eugene & Nancy Getlin, in memory of Scott Phillips Medley & Company, in memory of Rosemary Medley Paul & Judee Steward, in memory of Nathanel James Bruner CONTRIBUTORS James & Cathy Ashcraft Julie Clark Karen Cowan Gale & Becky Edwards Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Ellis John & Jean Greer HDR Engineering, Tom Ryan Michael & Neva Hill Lake Dental Clinic Antoinette Lambert, in memory of Daniel R. Kinnaird Jeremy Neely & Angela Whitesell Ryan Hamby Appraisal Service, in memory of Shelby Rous

2012 Share a Heart Campaign PRESENTING SPONSOR McDonald’s of the Ozarks SPONSORS CoxHealth Great Southern Bank

KTTS Radio KY3 McCann Printing Mid-Am Metal Forming CONTRIBUTORS Thousands and Thousands of McDonald’s Customers Advance Physical Therapy Anonymous Gary Boulch Community First Bank Distribution Solutions Richard & Tina Gilbert Great Southern Bank Jack & Jennifer Hartman Gene & Teresa Jones Lindsay Chevrolet Inc. Brian & Mary Livingston Main Street Service Center, Inc. Medley & Company Troy & Monica Miller Miller Hardware Company National Art Shop National TV Furniture & Appliance Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. Bryan Powers Professional Realtors Group SC Seasoning Company, Inc. Dwayne & Lisa Sherrer James Sprott Christiana Starnes Joseph Starnes Fred Waterman James & Clair Welch Juanita Woodson MAYORS PROCLAIMING “RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE WEEK” Mayor Dr. John Best of Bolivar, MO Mayor Jeff Braim of Gassville, AR Mayor Gary Brown of Salem, MO Mayor Brian Buckner of Republic, MO Mayor Wayne Cantrell of Seymour, MO Mayor Bob Clark of Marshfield, MO Mayor Sam Clifton of Nixa, MO Mayor Jack Cole of Rogersville, MO Mayor Delbert Crewse of Mountain Grove, MO Mayor Jeff Crockett of Harrison, AR

Mayor David Eden of Mount Vernon, MO Mayor Joe Paul Evans of West Plains, MO Mayor Doyle Ferguson of Aurora, MO Mayor Jamie Goforth of Lebanon, MO Mayor Cliff Hammock of Waynesville, MO Mayor Tracy Holle of Cassville, MO Mayor William Jenks of Rolla, MO Mayor Penny Lyons of Osage Beach, MO Mayor Eddie Maggard of Ava, MO Mayor Andrew Mead of Buffalo, MO Mayor Tim McKinney of Berryville, AR Mayor Linda Miller of Licking, MO Mayor Shane Nelson of Ozark, MO Mayor Gentry D. North of Camdenton, MO Mayor Jim O’Neal of Springfield, MO Mayor Jim Orr of Monett, MO Mayor David L. Osmon of Mountain Home, AR Mayor Morris Pate of Eureka Springs, AR Mayor Ron Potter of Forsyth, MO Mayor Raeanne Presley of Branson, MO Mayor Bud Rogers of Thayer, MO Mayor George Sanders of St. Robert, MO Mayor Don Tottingham of Houston, MO Mayor Tom Vicat of Strafford, MO Mayor Bud Vines of Mountain View, MO Mayor Dennis Wilson of St. James, MO SHARE A HEART FAMILIES The Albright Family The Angel Family The Bradshaw Family The Burk Family The Cantrell Family The Collins-Ramsey Family The Evans Family The Ferreri Family The Gault Family The Groom Family The Higginbotham Family The Huffman Family The Johnson Family The McIntire Family The Miller Family The Noell Family The Nofsinger Family The Pitchford Family The Reeves Family The Revelle Family The Richards Family The Ross Family The Scrimshire Family The Terrill Family The Terrill-Aborn Family The Tice Family The Wendel Family The Wheeler Family The Zimmerman Family

2012 Taste of Adventure Former Tooth Truck Board Member and temporary dentist, Dr. Wade Wheeler, shares a smile with Campbell Elementary student Haylei.

ADVENTURE EXPO PARTICIPANTS 417 Guns Archery Quest

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Insphere Solutions learned about the Ronald McDonald House while touring our “home away from home” and presented a check for $2,000 to House Manager, Donnetta Ghys.

Backcountry Outfitters Bott Radio Clear Creek Vehicles Dynamic Earth A.R.I.S. Home & Energy Inspection Services Liberty Bank Mercy Reflections Taxidermy The Rosewood Shop Springfield-Greene County Park Board Community Olympic Development Program Verdigris Valley Outfitters Webb’s Guide Service & KAST Inc. CHECKPOINT SPONSORS- $5,000 417 Guns Anonymous Donor Anonymous Donor Backcountry Outfitters Kido Safaris Mercy The Team, Inc. TRAILHEAD SPONSORS- $2,500 Archery Quest Ashley Furniture Elephant & Castle Ferrell-Duncan Clinic Integrity Home Care MG Hunting The Charlie O’Reilly Family RC Sales Byron & Cindy Rogers The Rosewood Shop TABLE SPONSORS Dan & Susan Carter Dan’s Discount Drug Mart The Exchange Havens Commercial, LLC The Taylor Hayes Family Bruce & Debra Hedgepeth Bob & Dani Helm Jared Enterprises Med-Pay, Gordon Kinne Dr. Rob Merritt Redeemed Music & Books Second Baptist Church Stancer Investments Jack Thurman STEERING COMMITTEE Joseph Cookinham, Chairman Gary Beets Kim Booth Ray Caliendo Shawn Gott Taylor Hayes

Michelle Heidt Staci Holland Greg Horton Bonnie Keller Alea Kilgore Adrienne McCoy Tim Roth Chaz Setzer Janet Sterling CONTRIBUTORS A to Z Rental ADA Fundraising Sales Al Vorst Electric A.R.I.S. Home & Energy Inspection Services Ashley Lauren Salon & Spa Aviary Café & Creperie Bass Pro Catalog Outlet Baymont Inn & Suites (Branson) Beaver Creek Elk & Cattle BMAX Branson Guided Fishing Trips Ray Caliendo, Black Widow Bows Central High School Media: Intelligence Staff Chateau on the Lake City Spatique Class Act Management, Chip McGeehan Claythorne Lodge Coppersmith, Inc. Countryside Cottage Coventry Insurance Cox Health Randy Crockett Cruisin’ 66 D’Arpino’s Distinct Detail DiVentures Do Outdoors, Inc. Don Orrell Stirrups, LLC Dynamic Earth Fin & Feather Fisk Limousine Float Trip Pickles Flying Feathers Greg Gardner G.E.O. Adventures Guildmaster David & Kimberly Hamm Hayes Family Hendrix Handmade Knives, Wayne Hendrix Hillbilly Holler Custom Calls Greg & Kim Horton Hy-Vee IMAX Island Green Golf Club Chef Chadwick Isom Jim Rogers’ Fly Fishing School Jimm’s Steakhouse Just Fishin’ Guides

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LoveLetter • Summer 2012 Sherri Murdaugh Angie Patrick Marita Pemberton Donna Powers Rob Rector Dr. Craig Scott Micah Scott Dr. Howard Shayne David Taylor Dr. Megan Westrich

Paradise Preschool donated pop tabs to benefit our House Family Fund and Tooth Truck Patient Needs Fund.

Bonnie Keller Karen’s Kreation John & Tina Kent KOLR-10 KSPR Liberty Bank Linda’s Flowers McCann Printing McDonald’s Meeks Building Centers Eileen Meinsen Merry Maids Metropolitan Grill Mikayla’s Grille Millwood Golf & Country Club Missouri Embroidery Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Murder Rock Golf & Country Club National Wild Turkey Federation (Show-Me Chapter) Oldfield Meat Packing Onestringer Orange Leaf Ozark Adventures Ozark Knife Makers Ozark Shooters Sports Complex Performance Cycle Pinnacle Sign Group Donna Powers Qdoba Reflections Taxidermy Rick’s Automotive Rockbridge Rainbow Trout Ranch Safari Off-Road Sapphire Vending, Inc. (Dennis & Eileen Pegg) Schaffitzel’s Greenhouses Joan Schroeder Silver Dollar City Attractions The Sound of Freedom USA Springfield 11 & IMAX Springfield Bike Company Springfield Leather Co. Stancer Designs Subway, Ken & Michelle Straus Tanger Outlet The River Fitness Center The Thicket The Tower Club Tracker Marine Group Twilight Grille Verdigris Valley Outfitters Webb’s Guide Service & KAST, Inc. Zen 3 Spa & Bodyworks AUCTIONEER Nick Sanders MUSIC Lonesome Hollow Band The Kilgore Sisters

WEBSITE Darren Furr VOLUNTEER GROUPS Alpha Delta Pi Delta Delta Delta FCA Friends & Volunteers Phi Eta Sigma Ozark High School FCA Ronald McDonald House Friends & Volunteers Sigma Phi Epsilon IDENTITY & PRINT MATERIALS DESIGN The Team, Inc. EMCEES Joe & Christine Daues EVENT CASH DONATIONS Brent & Melody Ball Mark & Debra Burgess Dan & RaeAnn Cannefax Hank & Kim Carter Andrew Covington Bonnie Foster Jerry & Monica Furgeson Greg & Kim Horton Jeffrey & Amber Lowe Hugh Lynas David & Janice Meier Rob & Jane Merritt Dennis & Lorie Miller Missouri Storm Shelters, Inc. Robert & Carrie Morgan Don & Toni Orrell Shirley Rambin Greg & Lohnya Rippee Byron & Cindy Rogers Paul & Brenda Schneider Steve & Elaine Schulke Barry Smith Ross Taylor Kenneth & Bobbi Anne Terry Dr. & Mrs. Mark Wilson

2012 Volunteer Dinner CASH DONATIONS Brian Asberry Dr. Bill Brell Mark Brueggemann Gretchen Cliburn Dr. Aaron Dannegger Jean Grabeel Dr. Tom Hoff Barb Houser Wyatt Jenkins

IN KIND GIFTS ADsmith Communications Becker & Scott, DDS Beth’s Bake Shoppe & Tea Room CoxHealth Turner Women’s Center D & K Flowers, Etc. Dharma Day Spa DeWitt & Associates, Inc. East Sunshine Church of Christ The Epps Family Todd Ghys Home Depot Tim & Debbie Kinser Lowe’s of Springfield Meek’s Nick Sibley Music Promotional Products of the Ozarks, David Pomerenke RMHC Board of Directors Rose & Associates Advertising Robert & Laura Shaw Sheridan Thurman Tooth Truck Board of Directors Zen 3

Family Fund Pop Tabs

In Kind Gifts

A to Z Party Rentals Glena Admire ADsmith Communications Karis Agnew Karen Alexander Anonymous Aquarium Consultants, LLC Arctic Refrigeration Jana Kay Atteberry Denise & Jeremy Bailey Sheri & Norman Bell Binswanger Glass Bissell Homecare, Inc. Makayla Blakey Rick & Kathy Booneville Breadsmith Junior & Joyce Brixey Martha Brooks John & Susan Byrne Mike & Wanda Campbell Sherry Cantrell Celebrations by Sonja Clever United Methodist Church Colonial Life Convoy of Hope Culligan of Springfield CWP-LIFT Dennis & Evelyn Davis Dillons Floral Disney Store-Branson Jennifer Doliber Dougherty & Associates/ Ameriprise Financial Donna Elliott Pam Elsaesser Paul & Machell Engel Susan Englert Paula Eyman Farm Bureau Insurance-Tammy Lowery Vicki Ferguson First Christian Church Bud & Alice Fisher Jennell Fredrick

Theresa Gabriel Galloway Full Gospel Garden Adventures Nursery Kelli Garrett Todd & Donnetta Ghys Greg Goddard Donn & Lori Goss Shawn Gott Jacque Haik Marla Haik David & Kimberly Hamm Wendell Hawxby Ruth Hertzberg Staci Holland Trudy Holtkamp Hope Lutheran Church Ann Howard Danny & Linda Hyde Charlie & Frances Iglio Ashley Jenkins Nancy Johnson Sarah Johnson Doris Jorgensen Matthew & Norma Kastner Patty Keener Tim & Debbie Kinser Kohl’s A Team Marilyn Larry Layer 3 Technology Jake & Jessica Liston Donald Luman & Mary Scarlett Charles & Diana Mahaffey Jill Marcum Maurices Shannon Mawhiney Dave & Pat McBeth McDonald’s Ozark Co-Op Rachel McGinnis Wanda McLane Mike & Zachary McMeley Mediacom Susan Meyer Missouri Farm Bureau Federation MSU Greenwood Laboratory School MSU/RHA National Art Shop Nixa High School Helping Hands Club Ozark Anesthesia Associates Pacific Coast Clearing Services Parkview High School Pat Jones YMCA Jane Perryman Pleasant Panther Neighborhood Club Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Professional Answering Service Roger & Agaytha Pryer Christie Rainey Donald & Ilene Raphael Reckitt Benckiser Customer Service

Reeds Spring High School Rick’s Automotive Cliff Ricketts Ridgecrest Baptist Church Robberson Prairie Baptist Church Mark Rose Roto-Rooter Eric & Rebecca Sandgren Schendel Pest Control Steve & Elaine Schulke Bailey Shaw Joy Shepard Tom Shirley Ronald A. & Nancy Silvius Carolina Simmons Jeremy, Brandi & Grady Smith Southside Church of Christ Springfield Cares Springfield Stamp & Engraving Springfield Workshop, Inc. Thomas & Mary Jo Staley Sunset Church of Christ Sweet Life Cookies Elfrieda Teters The Frosted Cupcake The Team The Toy Bank Nakita & Nakyra Underwood Wal-Mart #444 Wal-Mart of Nixa Weaubleau Schools Carmen Whorley Judy Williams Mandi Wilson Worthley & Co. Sally Yost Kathy Young Zion Lutheran Church

Family Dinners

Alpha Delta Pi-Gamma Mu Chapter Melody Ball Central High School Kilties Group Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Sina Brenadine Teril Peterson Debra Wilkinson Covenant Presbyterian Church Cox South Labor & Delivery Democrats for the Ozarks Libby Devaney Dougherty & Associates/ Ameriprise Financial Mychelle & Cory Eckels Emmaus Church Amanda Estrada & the Katrosh Family Evergreen Baptist Church FedEx Trade Network Galloway Full Gospel

Tooth Truck Office Manager, Davina Easter and McGregor student Madison are silly over their beautiful smiles.

LoveLetter • Summer 2012 Gamma Sigma Sigma Sorority Delta XI Girls of Grace Bible Study Glendale Christian Church Glendale High School Girls Service Society Glendale High School Interact Club Gloria Deo Academy Aubree Good Greater Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church Greene County 4-H Teen Council Heartland Covenant Church Hillcrest Presbyterian Church Home Depot Just Friends Kickapoo High School FCCLA Kickapoo High School Student Council Knights of Columbus #10200 Knights Templar Kohl’s A Team Joy & Josh LaBrie Gina McClanahan Danny & Shannon Mendel Natalie Moore MSU EDC Class MSU Golden Key National Honor Society MSU Marketing Department MSU Pre Med Society MSU Social Work Club MSU Student Athletic Trainers Association MSU Women’s Soccer Team MSU Alpha Phi Omega National Society of Collegiate Scholars William & Francie Newcomb Old Missouri Bank Operation Give Back Julie Pappenfort Parkview High School FCCLA Pat Jones YMCA Pre-Health Professions Club (Drury University) Republic High School FCCLA RMHC Board of Directors Schweitzer Methodist Church Life Group Second Baptist Church Sue Keller Group Simmons First National Bank South Gate Baptist Church Southeast Mom’s Club

SRC Community Relations SRC Logistics The Girlfriends Union Hill Church Of Christ United Healthcare Victory Baptist Church Kenny & Crystal Wade Wal-Mart of Nixa Scott, Joanna, Abigail & Lucy Weitzel West Division St. Baptist Church West Division Street Baptist Church Willard High School FFA

Pop Tabs

Bonnie Adams Alpha Delta Kappa American Legion 637 AmVets Auxiliary Post 116 Brandon Anderson Tony Anderson Anonymous Ava Middle School Kameryn Bain Joshua Barnes JD & Millie Barnhouse Joan Baxter Bayta’s Buddies Billings Elementary School Makayla Blakey Blue Eye Elementary School Jan Bond John Bowles Mike Boyle Bradford Veterinary Hospital Brown Derby Raven Captain Florence Cartwright Central Elementary School Julia Chance John Chapman Christ By The Lake Lutheran Church Roger & Lisa Clark Clever United Methodist Church Laurie Cole Kevin Coleman Diane Coon Marcie Cottrill Cox North Adult Psych II Cox North Business Office Cox South Pediatrics Cox South Health Information Management CoxHealth Admissions South

The Slocum family volunteers at nearly every RMHC event throughout the year! TJ is also our Share a Heart Champion, raising more than $10,000 for the Ronald McDonald House in 2012 alone! (L to R: Randy, TJ and Debbie)

CoxHealth Ambulatory Infusion Center Crosslines of Springfield Disabled American Veterans Aux. Disney Elementary Diversified Plastic Corp.

Employees Drury University Early Childhood Center Elk’s Ladies Lodge Al & Becky Emerine Marnie Farmer Chris Fecteau Dorotha Feuerborn First Baptist Church of Gainesville First Christian Church Robert Fletcher & Family Fraternal Order of Eagles #3934 Rob, Cheryl & Elliott Frederick Richard Fulp Galmey VFW Post 9638 Becky Gillham Girl Scout Group Troop 10250 April Gocke Jack & Victoria Goodpasture Greystone Graphics Marla Haik Leta Harmon & The Overcash Family Kathryn Harrington James & Amber Herd Holy Spirit Lutheran Church Hope Lutheran Church Charlie & Frances Iglio John & Vicki Inmon J & M Custom Carpentry Millie Jacobs JDP Management Company, Inc. Cherry Jennings George & Patty Jennings Jesus Inc. Marshall Kennard Lucas Kincy Nancy Kreeger Melanie Ladd Lake Stockton Health Care Facility Lakeland Regional Hospital Jeff Larsen William Lasiter Lathrop & Gage LLP Kale, Kailee & Danny Lawrence Legion Post 138 William LeJeune & Emily Rains Logan-Rogersville Middle School Donald Luman & Mary Scarlett Mark Twain Elementary Marshfield Care Center Kurt & Jerry McDonald McDonald’s-(Lebanon) Scott McLaughlin Mike & Zachary McMeley Jon Meinsen Mercy Hospital Springfield Mercy Corporate Health & Wellness MOCIC Jerry, Kerrigan & Mallory Morton National Heights Baptist Church Nelson-Wilks-Herron Elementary School Newborns in Need Brittanie Nichols Norwood R-1 School Elementary & Middle Schools Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church Oxford Health Care Ozark Winnie Travel Club Ozarks Peacemakers Quilt Guild Kent & Ashlea Palmer Julie Pappenfort Pat Jones YMCA Missy Payte Peace Lutheran Church Curtis Pellham Debbie Perry Teresa & Annie Pierpont Pleasant Hope FCCLA

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Tooth Truck patient, Teddy stops by Bowerman Nurse Cindy’s office to show off his new prize for being cavity-free!

Pleasant Panther Club Pleasant Panther Neighborhood Club Pleasant Panthers Club Shirley Plumb Pomme De Terre Shrine Club Bob & Rosalie Reahr Reeds Spring High School Reeds Spring Middle School Robin Reeves Nick Reinagel Republic Elementary School (Lyon) Rusty & Joy Reynaud Richland Preschool Shaw Electric Shell Knob School Joy Shepard Kathy Shost Silver Dollar City Attractions Mike, Melissa & Lauren Slamb Steve, Jennifer, & Samantha Smith Orchid Sollen Southside Church of Christ Springfield Area Retired Teachers Association Springfield Lutheran School St. Joseph Catholic Church Stockton Christian Church Study Middle School Sunset Church of Christ Tangles Hair Salon TelComm Credit Union Telecom Pioneers Telephone Pioneers-Branson Tri-Lakes Texas County Memorial Hospital Evan & Shauna Tindle Joan Turner Kayla Turner Union Hill Church Of Christ USDA Rural Development Employees Violet Chapter #480 Natalie Wand Wesley United Methodist Church Willard Central Elementary Willard East Elementary Sally Yost

Cash Donations

James & Cathy Ashcraft Doug Carter Pete & Sandy Emberton Home Economists in Homemaking Club Wyatt & Christina Jenkins Rob & Kelly Rector

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Springfield Metro Grant Challenge

Brian Asberry BKD Foundation Mark & Debbie Brueggemann Dan Burns Community Foundation of the Ozarks, Inc. Dr. Aaron Dannegger James & Pamela Gessler David & Kimberly Hamm Staci Holland Clayton & Bonnie Keller Dr. Josh Montgomery Mark & Angie Patrick Steve & Marita Pemberton Donna Powers Mark Ringenberg

Tooth Truck Patient Needs Fund Pop Tabs

In Kind Gifts

Ronald McDonald Care Mobile

Alpha Delta Pi-Gamma Mu Chapter City Utilities Culligan Bottled Water of Springfield Early Childhood Center First Impressions Printing Harps RV Shirley Madden Pressure Clean Corp.

Professional Answering Service Randy, Debbie, & TJ Slocum Springfield Underground

Major Cash Donations

Gifts of Tribute

Greater Springfield Dental Foundation

Betty W. Floyd, R.N. by Marla J. Floyd

LoveLETTER

Upcoming Events: 17thAnnual Cup O’Cheer Homes Tour Friday, November 16, 2012 20th Annual Share a Heart Campaign January 25-February 28, 2013

PMS 193

PMS 179

PMS 116

PMS 375

PMS 298

Love

PMS 2577

4th Annual Taste of Adventure

benefiting Ronald McDonald House and Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Saturday, March 9, 2013 www.RMHCozarks.org Ronald McDonald House Charities 949 E. Primrose St. Springfield, MO 65807 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

This is Suni and her name fits her perfectly. Her parents, Regina and Matthew Richards stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for nine days due to a severe seizure Suni experienced soon after she was born.

She is now a strong, healthy baby girl!

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE PAID SPRINGFIELD, MO PERMIT NO. 76