By Leonard Ernsbarger This column is long overdue; it needs to be written to recognize a special 4-H member for an award that was presented to her at 4-H recognition night held in October. One of the important events in 4-H is recognition night. It is a time when 4-H members and leaders are recognized for their accomplishments and achievements. The 4-H members have many accomplishments during their 4-H career...

During the Missouri State Fair, Jerry and Katherine Arnold were among 47 people inducted into the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame.They were nominated by the Vernon County 4-H Council. The hall of fame is a special program sponsored by the Missouri 4-H Foundation, giving special recognition to those who have contributed a lot to 4-H...

The last column, I wrote was "Annual McGennis Youth Center report out," published April 23, after just receiving The McGennis Youth Center Annual Report for 2012. It was handed out at the recently held annual board meeting. This is a continuation of discussing the annual report...

Someone recently asked me about the McGennis Youth Center and I thought that I would take her the Youth Center's annual report that I had received a few months ago. That would give her some additional information. I went back to the office and there was the 2012 McGennis Youth Center Annual Report that I had received. A year had passed and the annual meeting had been held. I had forgotten that it was time for the annual meeting...

Recently two readers of my personal columns asked me about my columns. I just flat-out haven't gotten them written. This column is somewhat different than most of the columns I have written. I have never dedicated any of my columns in the past, but I am dedicating this one to the late Del Potter...

When writing a column, I sometimes have a subject in mind, but sometimes a different event or thought comes to me and I write about another subject. That is what happen with this column. Last Thursday I had the opportunity to attend the Southwest Missouri Swimming Championships held at Hillcrest High School in Springfield...

Since it is now the Medicare open enrollment period, it is appropriate to talk about this special period that occurs once a year. Open enrollment started on Oct. 15 and will end on Dec. 7. Much of what I am writing about is a repeat from last year...

Last Saturday night the 4-H Recognition Night was held as the conclusion of National 4-H Week. Several awards were presented to members and leaders for their accomplishments. One of the awards presented was the Leonard Ernsbarger Community Service Award...

It has been several weeks, months, since I have shared a personal column with you. Last week I received a challenge from one of our prominent professional leaders asking why I had not been writing my columns and he said that he wants to read more columns. I had fully intended to write one last week, but did not get it done. My reply was that I had to get one written for this week, because this is National 4-H Week, Oct. 7-13, and I consider it to be an important subject...

A few weeks ago, I received a call from Phyllis Sprenkle to let me know that Patty Dawson Albright was in town. Both were former 4-H members during my career. Patty was an active member in my early days in Vernon County. I was pleased to get the call and asked where they were and I soon met with them...

There are children who, when it comes to reading or other tasks find it difficult and they just do not get it. It may not be their fault, but is the result of a learning disability. Many of these students are intelligent, but they still have difficulty...

The Affordable Care Act was passed by Congress and signed by President Obama in March, even with the polls showing that most people were against the legislation. Many of the law makers were not aware of what the act contained, even when voting for it...

The Patient and Affordable Care Act has been signed into law. This became the law even though, according to polls, most citizens opposed it and even with most of those in congress not reading the bill and knowing what it contained. The battle has been won by those in favor of the law, but most likely the war will go on for years...

This is the third in a series of columns with information taken from the McGennis Youth Center 2009 Annual Report which was presented at the annual Mary A. McGennis Agricultural Park and Youth Center board meeting. This is also last in the series, and future columns will include other subjects. There is additional information in the report that will not be included in these columns...

Each year the Mary A. McGennis Agricultural Park and Youth Center board holds its annual meeting. Recently, Virginia Habjan asked me if I wanted a copy of the annual report. I told her that I had one, but I wanted to give a copy to another person, so she me left a copy at the University Extension Center. ...

The Medicare supplement modernization that begins June 1 will bring about the biggest change to Medicare since Part D was added in 2005. Medicare is an important subject for a large proportion of the population in this area -- it is especially important for those on Medicare or those with a parent on Medicare...

Major changes will be taking place for Medicare supplements beginning June 1. Changes always add to confusion and concerns many people on Medicare have. There will be a lot of publicity about these changes in the next two months. For most, the changes will not have any affect on the Medicare supplement policy they now have. Still, information about the changes will have many concerned...

It seems like it has only been a short time, but it has been several years since the Teen 4-H conference first started. While there are a number of events available for older 4-H members, the teen conference was started for pre-teen age members, to introduce them to a stat- wide conference and to acquaint them with events that will be available to them in the future...

One of the teaching methods recommended in 4-H is judging. Judging may be included in almost any project and it is an important event in some of the 4-H projects. The major reason to include judging in projects is that it helps members learn to make decisions. Decision making is a life skill that is enhanced as result of participating in judging. It is more than just learning subject matter, which is learned as result of judging...

It was about 25 or 30 years ago when Warren Hargus, area community development specialist, recognized a need for a community junior college for Vernon County. He saw a real need for an education program after high school. The concept that the Hargus felt was needed in the area never developed, but, a few years later Crowder College located a campus in Nevada. This campus met a need for many students in this area looking for an opportunity to take college courses...

It is appropriate for one of the Pacesetter Awards recently presented at the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce awards luncheon to be named in honor of the late Wayne Neal. He served as city manager and had a major impact on the community. Although any of the businesses nominated for this award were deserving of the special recognition, chamber of commerce members selected Cottey College as the 2009 recipient. ...

The Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce has a new look and new board members. With new people come new ideas and with new ideas comes a different organization which continues to be committed to improving the economic prosperity and quality of life in the area...

As we change from one year to another, it is like starting a new chapter. We can look forward to many expectations for a new year and say good-by to the year that has ended and is now history. Dec. 31 was the final day for enrollments into the Plan D prescription program for those on Medicare. ...

This is the time of the year when there is a great amount of joy and excitement with the celebration of Christmas. This is true for many families and many individuals. It is also a time of sadness and depression for many others, especially for those who are lonely. Among those who may be left out of receiving any gifts are teenagers and senior citizens...

Four- H recognition night was held Saturday at the Home Economics building at the Vernon County Youth Fairgrounds. This is a special time when 4-H members are recognized for their accomplishments and achievements. One of those receiving special recognition was Josie Foley, daughter of Dwight and Jana Foley...

As I related to you in the past I attended a one-room school for eight years to obtain my elementary education. As I told my children when they were young and I tell my grandchildren now, I was in the same classroom for eight years -- which makes them look at me in a strange way...

A comment made by several people in the last few days is, "the chicken was good." They are talking about the delicious barbecue chicken served by the 4-H members and their families at the Vernon County Youth Fair Grounds last Saturday evening. This is a major fund raising event for the Vernon County 4-H Council...

A major pet peeve that I have is the expense necessary to determine how much income tax needs to be paid. This is in addition to the time and energy it takes to get the necessary information. Then there is the fear of something getting overlooked, which could end up causing a penalty. In many ways our system of paying income tax is highly unfair...

A front page article published in The Nevada Daily Mail last Thursday was "McGennis Youth Center set for Sept. 27." This was also announced in the news on the local radio station. As result of this publicity, I thought about using a different topic for this column. However the McGennis Youth Center is a favorite subject of mine, so I decided that this would still be my topic this week...

There are many great things in this community that are often taken for granted. They do not just happen, they happen because of concerned citizens who make them happen, often over several years. One of these is the Community Council on the Performing Arts and their fine performances at the Fox Playhouse. I am impressed every time I go to one of the performances...

Recently, as school was getting started, the Nevada R-5 Board of Education established a policy for random drug testing for students in high school and middle school. Those participating in extracurricular and co-curricular activities had to complete a form stating that they agree to participate in the random testing program. The school board did the right thing in establishing this program...

Last week in the column I said that I thought that local papers should have only local information in them, not national. One reader informed me that she likes to get national news in the local paper as this is the only paper that she reads. I appreciated the feed back since I knew she had read the column...

It is my opinion that information in local papers should deal with local issues and not national. However, there are some things that do occur on the national level that tremendously affects us locally. Perhaps a subject as selected today is best to be not used...

Last week the Nevada Rotary Club Citizen of the Year Award was presented to a worthy recipient, Bob Beaver, retired educator and a community volunteer who's been especially active with Habitat for Humanity. Many of us receive awards and many others do work deserving of honors. ...

You have heard the old expression, "leave it up to George." This is an expression that has often been said when there is something to be done and no one wants to do it, or they expect someone else to do it. Well, what happens if George does not want to do it?...

During my extension career, I had an opportunity to work with a large number of wonderful people. Opal Gould was among those I worked with during my early years in Vernon County. I am sure that she was not only recognized for her tenure of 4-H leadership, but also as an outstanding 4-H leader. She is an example of the many high quality 4-H leaders who have provided leadership to 4-H and have had a major influence on others as a leader...

The Master Gardener program is one of the many good programs that the University of Missouri provides. This is a program that began approximately 25 to 30 years ago and has developed into a major program. I remember when Harry Veith was establishing it in the Jackson County area. He was one of the early leaders of this program for the state of Missouri...

This is a continuation of the last column published two weeks ago. When I started that column, I did not plan to make it in two parts. As I said, the Youth Center is of utmost importance to me, so no wonder that it requires more than one column. In March the annual meeting of the McGennis Youth Center was held and the annual report was presented. We ended with the discussion of the caretakers report as reported by Scott and Tina Sudkamp. Most of their report was in the previous column...

One of the favorite topics that I personally prefer for these columns relates to the McGennis Youth Center. The board recently had their annual meeting while I was out of the country (literally). The officers were re-elected: President, Robert Wills, Rich Hill; vice-president, Virginia Habjan; secretary, Debbie Balk, Rich Hill; and treasurer, Carla Armentrout...

As a community we are situated in a good location plus we have many things that are going good for the community. We are heading for a great future and the task we have is to get ready for what is coming in the upcoming series of positive events. The financial slow down that is being experienced as a nation and as a world is affecting this community. ...

It was beyond my imagination that I would ever go to Italy. It would be like a dream to make the trip and to see the historical European country. We went and it seems like it was a dream, but it was real. We knew that TeamBank was having a group go on a trip to Italy, but we had not given it any thought. ...

For the last two weeks I have been writing about the community pacesetters who recognized at the recent chamber of commerce banquet. In addition to the pacesetter awards, several other awards presented. Giving recognition to those who have had accomplishments is an acknowledgment, by the chamber, of high achievements and of those who are doing special things for the community. ...

Among the pacesetters awards recently presented at the chamber of commerce banquet was the Agri-business Pacesetter awarded to Hardin Farms, they were recognized for providing classroom agriculture education. Michael Brown, representing Ag Provision, LLC, the 2007 Agri-business Pacesetter, presented the award. He said, "The benefits of this type of ongoing education are not just for the student as it benefits the entire community as a whole."...

An important event of the community each year is the Nevada/Vernon County Area Chamber of Commerce awards banquet, which was held Saturday night at the Eagles Lodge. More than 200 had made reservations to attend. The pacesetter awards are a great way of recognizing special businesses, organizations and persons who are outstanding. ...

Short jingle, short jingle, short jingle, short jingle -- that was the sound of the telephone ringing our number when I was growing up. The rural phone line was a party line -- when it rang four shorts that meant that the telephone was for us, as our number was 6704. One of our neighbors on the same line had number 6711. That meant when you called their number you cranked the ringer on the wall phone one long and one short. The long was a longer crank or the ringer...

This is a continuation of last week's column which was about the 50 percent cut that Governor Jay Nixon had proposed for the University Extension budget. Such a cut would be significant and certainly not called for. Here is a major program that has an direct effect on many citizens in the state and on a much larger number indirectly. A cut of this type would gut Extension as we know it...

It was a great surprise to me when Steve Moyer, Nevada Daily Mail reporter, called me and informed me that Governor Nixon has proposed cutting funding to the University of Missouri Extension Service by 50 percent. A cut might have been expected and has happen frequently during the past 30 years, but not 50 percent at one time...

Last week, we lost an American literary legend, John Updike. At age 76, he was considered one of our country's most prolific writers. Like all of us who put ourselves in print for others to read, Updike was not immune to considerable and sometimes vicious criticism. On behalf of Mr. Updike, and all writers I applaud each and everyone of you...

One of the greatest things that has happened here in the history of Vernon County has been the development and establishment of Prairie Pride Inc. This biodiesel plant is a major industry located in the Deerfield area. It is in operation and will continue to be important to the area economy in the future...

A lot of discussion these days includes alternative energy and the sources for the energy. The idea is to move away from fossil fuels to improve the environment. One of the sources of energy that we are hearing about is wind power. It sounds good and can help to provide energy. ...

We are living in interesting times. It was beyond imagination that our economy would go south as it has over the past few months. Yet, this is an experience in life that we can learn from. When we look back, there were adequate signs that we should have been aware that a major down cycle was coming...

This is the last column for me to write this year -- since it is scheduled to be published on the last day of 2008. It will be next year before I write another one. A great thing about this time of the year is the large number of good football games to watch on TV. There are a numerous bowl games -- perhaps too many. If there were fewer they would have more meaning. Still, it is good to watch a large number as we have the opportunity. It is especially fun when the team I favor wins...

Almost any where you go, including Nevada, you may hear people say there is nothing to do. That will not be true in Vernon County in 2009. With the year winding down and a new year to begin shortly. It is only appropriate to look at 2009 and visualize all of the events that will take place...

A subject that came under much discussion last week was the sudden resignation of the city manager and questioning who the city council was going to name as the interim city manager. There has been an element in Nevada that was against anything that Bill McGuire did. ...

At the 4-H recognition night held Saturday night in the home economic building at the Vernon County Youth Fairgrounds 4-H members and volunteer leaders were recognized for their achievements during the year. It is amazing what many of these young people are accomplishing and the great service that volunteers are rendering to young people and to the community...

A new season starts this Saturday. Not only is it the first day of the firearms deer season, but it is also the beginning of the open enrollment period for Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription coverage. The open enrollment period will end on Dec. 31. What this means is that those on Medicare may sign up for Medicare Advantage programs during that time, change plans, or leave a Medicare Advantage plan to go back to original Medicare...

"Glorious" is the way one person described the recent days. Never fear, we are in Missouri and it will change. We do not realize how great it is to live in an area where there are four season a year. Several years ago we spent some time in Arkansas. ...

It has been several months since I have written a column about diabetes, even though many readers have said that they especially read the columns about diabetes. Recently, I had a request to write another column on this subject. It does not seem possible, but it has been a little over 12 years since I was diagnosed with diabetes. ...

When you see someone, or are with someone, you never know that it might be the last time in this life experience that you will see that person. This happens to people quite often. Still, unless it happens directly to you, it is generally not given much thought...

The number of people on Medicare keeps growing as more people reach Medicare age. There are many options now available and they are good quality options. The annual enrollment period will be from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, when those on Medicare may enroll in Part D prescriptions or into Medicare Advantage programs with an effective date of January 1, 2009...

Although there are many subjects to choose from for this column, it only seems appropriate to continue the discussion from last week. This week, Oct. 5-11, is the observance of National 4-H Week. This program has and is making a major impact on many young people in this area and there is still the potential to enroll more into this program...

The week of Oct. 5-11 is National 4-H Week with the theme of "Keeping it Green." As you might expect, this means a number of different things. The program keeps evolving by providing programs that are timely and important for the development of boys and girls in society...

One of the songs we often sang in college at the church student group had lyrics that said that new friends are silver and old friends are gold. This song indicates that friends are valuable. They are priceless. During my life I have become acquainted with a large number of people. ...

On Aug 23, 1987 the Vernon County Cancer Relief Fund was established through the efforts of Jody Renwick and financial assistance from the Finis M. Moss Charitable Trust. Last Friday night more than 300 dedicated volunteers and supporters of the Vernon County Relief Fund attend a fund raising dinner at the Fraternal Order of the Eagles lodge to raise money to help the fund help local people and to honor the work of Jody Renwick to develop the fund...

Tuesday is an important date for the citizens of Missouri; it is the date to go to the polls to vote. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to vote and it is also a responsibility. We live in a democracy and the way to keep this type of government, eligible voters need to vote...

Dr. Karen Hargus Biehl, formally from Nevada, e-mailed me last week information about her achievements in education, with the idea that her experiences can show that it can be done and in hopes of encouraging others to go for their dreams. The 1977 graduate of Nevada High School has recently completed her doctoral degree in Pharmacy, reaching a major achievement...

Another Vernon County Youth Fair has now become history. Fair board members have expressed that the fair was a good one and successful. The weather cooperated and there were good crowds. It certainly was highly successful and an event that is good for the youth and all who are involved. An event of this type is successful as result of a large number of people having input into the occasion. It is a tradition that started in 1946 as a 4-H and FFA show and it remains strong...

It is the first full week in July and this week the Vernon County Youth Fair is being held, which is rather early for this important event. The youth fair provides many great experiences for the participants. It is something that many will remember for a life time. It offers many learning opportunities and it provides fun for the young people. The weekend edition of this paper contained a youth fair special which included information for the fair and provided the schedule for the events...

In the early 60s, my parents became regular spectators at the Nevada Speedway. It was a great treat for a kid back then as it is still today. For close to 50 years Saturday nights in Nevada have always included stock car racing. One of my favorite parts of the venue was the Trophy Dash. It was a big part of the weekly spectacle of racing in Nevada...

Last week at this time we were on a five day Western Caribbean Cruise which involved our entire clan of 15. Words can not adequately express the feeling of having an adventure of this type with the entire family. It was one of the most wonderful and meaningful things we have ever done...

Just south of Nevada city limits there is a special sparkle that comes as a result of the precious diamonds, a baseball diamonds complex -- Champion Diamonds. This is a precious treasure that has been provided to this community. This is the 10th year for Champion Diamonds, yet for many of us it seems new. ...

Gary Hawk, of Iola, Kan., is internationally known for his country, western and wildlife art. Many in this area are familiar with him and his art. His art work is being featured at the Vernon County Arts Council gallery at the Carnegie Building, located at Ash and Austin in Nevada...

When thinking about who should be Citizen of the Year it is often difficult to choose just one person. Frequently, it is easy to overlook a person who should be awarded this type of special recognition. This year the Nevada Rotary Club chose a person who is well deserving of this special recognition -- Pat Chambers, a man I look up to for what he has accomplished...

For a number of years, this first week of June is when the rodeo is held in Nevada sponsored by the Vernon County Youth Fair Board. Once again this traditional event will be held this week, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, which is the 17th year for the fair board to be sponsoring the rodeo. As a result both professional and amateur cowboys and cowgirls are and will be arriving in Nevada...

Memorial Day is the time when it is unofficially considered as the beginning of summer starts. Often through the years it has rained on Memorial Day has often been called Decoration Day. This term has not been used as much in recent years as it was about a half century ago...

Each year Nevada Lions Club collects a large number of used glasses. These glasses are collected to be sent to third world countries where people cannot afford glasses and to give them an opportunity to see. I asked my cousin Bob Hawk, Iola, Kan., to give a report of his experience in being involved in taking glasses to another country. ...

Dr. Ron and Linda Schowengerdt with their staff will be hosting the 2nd annual Schowe and Shine Auto Show this Saturday, May 17, at their office located at 1701 W. Austin Blvd, Nevada. The show will benefit the Nevada Area Habitat for Humanity. Last year the event was held for the first time and it was successful, which pleased the sponsors. ...

There are people who serve others in our society whom we never properly thank or to show them our appreciation. Instead of praising others and giving them encouragement there is a tendency to tear down or to talk down our leaders. A few weeks ago after the city election and the reorganization of the city council a picture was in the Nevada Daily Mail showing Bill Edmonds receiving a plaque as a matter of appreciation for his service as mayor. ...

Occasionally, a reader will ask what I am going to write about this week. Many readers have no clue as to what I am going to write. It may come as a surprise to these readers that I might not know myself. The subject planned for this week has been postponed after I have seen many beautiful flowering trees in recent days and weeks...

It was a pleasure to have Don Henderson and his wife stop by for a cup of coffee last week. He had called the prior week to let me know he was scheduled to be in town. Don is with the Missouri 4-H Foundation and had served as director prior to going part time...

As you know my career was in extension giving leadership to 4-H. Do you know that when the program was in its early development it was called 3-H, standing for Head Heart and Hands? It was not long before the fourth H was added, standing for Health. The early pioneers in this youth movement recognized the importance of health to the youth involved and to their families...

Last week the Ozark Food Harvest Mobile Food Pantry came to Nevada for the distribution of food and supplies. This is the second time for the Mobile Food Pantry to come to Nevada -- the first time was two months ago. It has been nearly two months since Jerry Janes talked to me, about the involvement he and others from the Rotary Club gave people in Vernon County with the first visit of the Mobile Food Pantry. ...

When the word "pitch" is used in the month of April, one generally figures it is about baseball. Well, that is not the kind of "pitch" I am referring to here. I am making my usual "pitch" regarding our upcoming Tuesday, April 8, elections. Before I started this article, I read "Be A Responsible Citizen By Voting," in Wednesday's Nevada Daily Mail Opinion Page. My fellow columnist, Leonard Ernsbarger, made many good points in his article...

Next Tuesday is when we have the opportunity to go to the polls and vote for school board and city council members. This is an important election and it is important to cast votes to select the candidates that will be best for the community. Within the county there is at least one issue that most likely will draw a large vote and there are several different elections including the R-1 school district and water district...

Columns for the past two weeks have discussed the Pacesetter awards presented by the chamber of commerce earlier in the month. There were other awards in addition to Pacesetter awards that were presented to those well deserving of special recognition...

Recently the Nevada/Vernon County Area Chamber of Commerce awards banquet was held with more than 200 in attendance -- another successful annual event. Last week the column included discussion on the Individual Pacesetter Award which went to Terry Ramsey. This column will continue the discussion about the awards...

The place to be in Nevada Saturday night was at the Eagles Lodge for the annual chamber of commerce banquet with a theme "Aloha Nevada." Kathi Wysong, director, described the even as great food with tremendous chamber enthusiasts. The pacesetter awards are a great way of recognizing special businesses, organizations and persons who are outstanding. ...

In a conversation with Bernice Bell, a greeter at Wal-Mart, she made a statement that life use to be simpler. She said that when she was young they went to a grocery store at Prairie City with a list and those at the store took the orders for groceries and went back and got them for the customer. Now, everyone is pushing carts all over the store...

If you have not read Neoma Foreman's Country Connections "Shocking Oats" in last Thursday's paper, then you need to go back and read it. She has a well written column about the way farming was at one time in this area. It is a column that needs to go into the archives of the museum as it contains good historical information. Many readers have expressed that they like to read her columns, because they remind them of their country experiences...

In the past I have used stories that our oldest granddaughter, Heather Ernsbarger, had written. Readers were amazed at the talent of her writing for her age. She also demonstrated a great amount of creativity. It has been sometime since I have used anything that she has written...

I always read Leonard Ernsbarger's columns in this newspaper, because he is, and probably always has been, one of Nevada's faithful and tireless pillars. And I always read his columns on the topic of diabetes, because I, too, have suffered for one year less than half a century from the same disease Leonard has...

After having diabetes for several months, years, it appears that it would become easier to deal with it and to manage the chronic disease. Apparently, it never gets easy. Diabetes affects each individual in a different way. What might work for one person will not always work for another person...

Recently during my appointment at the Veterans Clinic, I was asked if I had fallen in the past year. I had to think about that before answering that I had not. Still, I have fallen in the past and it is easier to fall and the landing is harder than it use to be. Getting up is also a greater challenge...

There is a community that has several things going for it, and many people would like to live in the community, if only they knew about it. Among the things that are going for it includes a new biodiesel plant about to go into full production, a new jail will be built this year; the school system has recently expanded its facilities and the sewage system is being upgraded with a new plant to be constructed. ...

We are about to celebrate another Christmas, the most important holiday of the year, which causes a person to ponder many different thoughts. It is a time when the entire nation pauses to celebrate; a time when we remember the gift that was given to us which came as a baby. Christmas is the time set aside to remember this birth...

Whether you are talking about the number of days left for shopping before Christmas, the number of days left in 2007, or the Open Enrollment Period for Plan D and Medicare Advantage Private Fee For Service, there are not many left. The conception of times changes as a person has more years behind them. As a child, it seemed that Christmas would never arrive. Now, it seems like that we only got over last Christmas and it is about to arrive once again...

Using science-learned knowledge, University of Missouri Extension engages people to understand change, solve problems and make informed decisions. This is a statement on the University of Missouri Web site. Another statement says that University of Missouri Extension is a partnership of the University of Missouri Campuses, Lincoln University, the people of Missouri through county extension councils and the Cooperative State Research of the U.S. Department of Agriculture...

Most readers are aware that my career was in giving leadership to 4-H, being assigned to Vernon County in 1961. One year a young lady came into the office and offered to be a chaperone on one of our 4-H trips. This lady, showing much enthusiasm had been a 4-H member in Kansas and wanted to get involved...

In many ways, this has been a great 4-H year in Vernon County. This was especially apparent on Saturday night, during the 4-H recognition night held at the youth fair home economics building. A large number of awards were presented to high-achieving 4-H members who had major accomplishments...

About 50 to 70 years ago and years before that, it was certain death for a child to have Type 1 diabetes and for people who developed Type 2. In recent years it has been possible to provide care that helps people with diabetes. Many are now able to live a normal life by keeping the diabetes under control...

People on Medicare have a large variety of choices that can be made. Right now there is a great amount of advertisements for Medicare Advantage Plans and for Plan D Plans. The reason is that Open Enrollment Period is from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. It is a time to review what you have and to evaluate other choices...

When I grew up on a dairy farm, 20 to 30 milk cows were considered as a large operation. Milk was picked up at the farm in 10 gallon cans. There were a large number of dairy producers. As a result of growing up milking cows, I have continued my interest in dairy farming. ...

One of the greatest things that happened during my extension career was Helen Reel’s donating a farm to the University Extension Endowment Fund. Helen was impressed with the extension youth program and the gift of a farm for the youth in the area by Mary McGennis was a model for her. She had a special interest in young girls who we would now refer to as being high risk...

This week, Oct. 7-13, the 4-H members in this area join with 4-H members throughout the nation in observance of the annual National 4-H Week. The theme is "4-H SET" standing for science, engineering and technology. That certainly sounds like 4-H is more than just cows and cooking, and it is...

Certainly, you have heard about the addition of a swimming pool to the YMCA. The original plan, as indicated by a brochure on my desk, included a six-lane pool, 25 yards in length, which could have been used for competition events. Several individuals made concentrated efforts to raise the funds for what was expected to be the cost at that time. ...

Perhaps she was not well known in the Nevada community, but the late Marjorie McGennis was well known in the Rich Hill community and to many people elsewhere. Born April 20, 1912, the 95 year old left this life experience recently on Sept. 17, 2007...

A visitor in my office recently made a statement that you cannot do things like you did 10 years ago. He included farming in this that farmers cannot do things like they did 10 years ago. I commented to another visitor about what the previous visitor said. He added it is not the same as it was 6 years ago...

This is a third and final column about a trip my family recently took to Ireland. In many ways it seems like a dream. It was a wonderful experience, and it provided wonderful memories. A portion of what we experienced and the sights we viewed has been shared with you, in this column some more of these will be shared; but even then, there will be significant events and sights not included. In sharing something of this type, it is difficult to know where to begin -- and where to end...

This week is an important week in the lives of the exhibitors at the annual Vernon County Youth Fair. For Spencer Thompson, president of the Vernon County 4-H Council, the county fair is the highlight of the summer. Many others are in agreement with him...

Each person has only one set of eyes and it is important to protect them. According to Jeremy Fast, optometrist, the number one cause of blindness for ages 20 to 75 is diabetes. Fast was the speaker at a recent group diabetic education meeting held at the Vernon County Senior Center...

This past week the community had what appeared to be a highly successful Bushwhacker Days celebration. It is good for the community to hold events of this type. Since the community honored me, it is only appropriate to express some of my thoughts. Words are not adequate for sharing my feelings. ...

This week our second granddaughter (in age), Christie Ernsbarger, is in Washington, D.C. as a participant in the National History Day, representing the State of Arkansas. Recently, she completed eighth grade and is participating in the junior division with an individual performance...

With the Nevada Neptunes, there is competition, but the point is not so much the competition as it is to have fun. Still, the participants have to put a lot into it. As a result, they will receive a great experience that will be meaningful to them. The interest and participation in the Nevada Neptunes is growing. ...

Once again it is the season for the Farmer's Market. The first day for the market is this Saturday, May 12, beginning at 8 a.m. this is good for the community, good for the producers and great for the consumers. It is a place where local growers can market their products and a place for buyers to buy good nutritional local products...

The title for the Missouri Center for Youth Development 2006 Annual report is "4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills." This title summarizes what 4-H is all about. The report provides a snapshot of 4-H in Missouri...

Hummingbirds were observed on Monday, so that fun of watching birds is coming back once again. They have not been observed at the feeders, but that does not mean they have not been at the feeders. It would be nice if the birds could report to us about their trips, since they left last fall. A person wonders where they went and how they know to come back. It takes an effort to keep them fed properly, but they are a great pleasure...

Most people are aware of the series of books for dummies. These publications cover a number of subjects such as a variety of books relating to the computer. There is "Football for Dummies," "Baseball for Dummies," "Food for Dummies" and the list goes on...

A great facility we have in Vernon County is the McGennis Youth Center, located north of Metz. Though it is not known by many folks, to me it is one of the greatest things that we have. Last week, the column was, "Keeping the Dream Alive." It contained information from the board‚s annual report with information about the dream Miss Mary McGennis had for the center when she donated 160 acres of land to the youth in the area and how that dream is being kept alive...

It has been 40 years since Mary A. McGennis gave 160 acres of land to be used by the youth in this area. Forty years already? For many of us it does not seem to be that long. That was the beginning of the McGennis Youth Center and since then it has received a great amount of use, which will continue in the future...

Education is of utmost importance in our community and is recognized as an important enterprise by the chamber of commerce. A silent auction was held during the recently held awards banquet. There were approximately 150 items auctioned off, the largest number ever contributed by many businesses...

This is a continuation of last week's column relating to the recent Chamber of Commerce 2006 Awards Banquet. Those in attendance were actively participating in the Casino and the silent auction. There was a pause in those activities when it came time to present the awards...

It was large. It was fun. The food was great. Special recognition was presented to the stars. It was a good place to be. It was the recently held 2006 Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet. Nearly 300 people were in attendance at the event, making it the biggest yet. ...

A good way to describe the current Vernon County jail is with the words used by one citizen, "It's nasty." Perhaps this is as apt a description as one can express for the county jail that has been in its current location since the '60s. Back then, it was thought of as being a great building for the jail. Still, there are those who recognized that it has never been a good jail...

"Diabetics need to take an active role in their own health," said Michael Crim, D.O., Nevada Medical Center, at a diabetic group education meeting held Monday at the Vernon County Senior Center. Diabetics often do not take enough ownership in their own health. ...

Today, the date for the publishing of this column, is a special day, a day of love. We celebrate Valentine's Day, a time when children exchange valentines and a special day for lovers. This is usually symbolized by a heart. It is appropriate that February has been selected as National Heart Month, which is a special time to consider the health of our hearts...

Last week's discussion centered on the fact that having senior citizens retiring in our community and our state makes an economic impact. At present, many are going to other states to retire, because they do not have to pay income tax on their retirement. It becomes an investment to reduce their income tax and make Missouri one of the places where people want to spend their retirement years...

It would be a win-win situation for Missouri to discontinue taxing the retirement income of our seniors. For many it may not seem possible, but what is happening is that many are not choosing Missouri for retirement. The reason is that there are a large number of states that are not taxing the retirement incomes and they are drawing people to retire in those states...

Last Tuesday, Dec. 26, and the first work day after Christmas, it was a little hard to drive on the second block of West Cherry. A certain void was felt, knowing that a person often seen on that block was not there any more. Only in a small town does news travel so fast. ...

Recently, I heard a song on the radio and every time they said Christmas, it was beeped out, like it was a bad word. They said that they could not use the word (beep). They would say merry (beep). It was humorous and still it was somewhat sad. Unfortunately, there is too much truth in it. There are places in our nation where they cannot use the word Christmas...

With the recent snow and cold weather, it is beginning to look like Christmas. After winters of having hardly any snow fall, we have gotten an old fashion snow. Still, winter has not arrived and will not until later this month. Most of the experts are predicting a mild winter. Maybe so, but I bet those people in the St. Louis area who were without electricity are not considering this to be mild weather...

Thanksgiving Day is a special day -- a time to express our thanks and to feast. There is much to be thankful for. Each one of you has your special things for which to give thanks thanks on your list. We are thankful for our family and our friends. Things we are thankful for include our community, our form of government, the many people that serve us, such as those in the health professions and law enforcement. ...

Much is accomplished by the 4-H members of Vernon County and many of them are high achievers. This was certainly indicated at 4-H Recognition held Saturday night in the home economics building at the fairgrounds. It is interesting to hear what these young people are doing. A number of awards were presented to 4-H members and leaders...

A person who has devoted 31 years for his country by serving in the armed forces is a hero. One such person who chooses this community for retirement is retired Chief Master Sergeant Wayne K. Brown. He retired from the Air Force in 1974 as E9, the highest rank for an enlisted military person...

"This is the most important election in my lifetime. There is a lot of stuff to vote for," was a comment Andy Remington made this week. Many agree with Andy that this is an important election, especially for a mid-term election. One of the great privileges we have is the opportunity to vote and to express our opinion. ...

While walking to or from school, among the things enjoyed was eating persimmons and wild grapes. Of course, the times a persimmon was eaten before it had ripened left a bitter taste in the mouth. A favorite subject of readers is related to childhood experiences while growing up on the farm. Coming in second relates to information about diabetes. This column is not about the experience of childhood; except for bringing back some of the memories...

Local dentist Dr. Tom Bunton, discussed diabetes and diseases at the group diabetic education program held Monday at the Vernon County Senior Center. He emphasized the importance of dental hygiene to the group of eight in attendance. He confessed that as a general dentist he was not paying nearly enough attention to diabetes. This has been the case for most dentists. He found he was not being aggressive enough or watching carefully enough...

National 4-H Week has come and gone. This year it was a little different in Vernon County than in most years. This special observance is held during the first week in October. Since the Annual Chicken Barbecue is held the first Saturday of the month, it is thought of as kicking off National 4-H Week. This year the first day was on Sunday and as a result the barbecue was the anchor event for the week...

Most of the Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in the new prescription drug program, Plan D. The experiences with this program vary from a bad experience to good. Most are satisfied with the program. For many the "gap," which may be referred to as the "doughnut hole" has been or is a major problem, this is the period that the person has to pay the entire cost for the drugs. ...

There are a great amount of great things happening in our area, with the biodiesel plant being developed and a number of other projects in the works. All of these things will have a major impact on the future of Vernon County. Much of the economic development that has taken place in recent months has been through the efforts of the city and the county working together and getting things done. ...

I had intended to use a different subject this week, but I had an experience last week that needs to be used as a subject. After sharing my experience with a loyal reader, he suggested that needed to be the subject this week. Last week, we received a call asking to talk to the owner of the phone. ...

Some time ago the Surgeon General came out with a report that second hand smoking is a health hazard for those being exposed. Years ago it was determined that tobacco use is a health hazard. Tobacco contributes to cancer, lung disease, heart disease and many other illnesses. Many people have died a horrible death as a result of prior tobacco use...

The swimming season has ended and school is in progress even though Labor Day has not yet arrived. Learning to swim their best was the challenge for those participating in the Nevada Neptunes, which is a good program for the youth involved. It provides good experiences and learning opportunities...

Last week's column was about the annual barbecue and auction to be held last Sunday at the McGennis Youth Center. As I promised you, the barbecue was really good. The meal was prepared by Neil Steiner, of the Flaming Lantern, Butler. Neil and I were both reared in the same area -- Neal was a few years behind me. There were approximately 110 who went through the line...

It has been a tradition for the McGennis Youth Center to host a barbecue and an auction on the first Sunday of August. This will be the 37th year for the barbecue to be held and the craft auction, in conjunction with the event, started in 1980. This youth center will be the place to be this Sunday and is usually well attended and supported. Besides having good food, it is a good social event and an opportunity to show off the center. The center will be groomed and ready for visitors...

At one time the streets in Nevada were horrible. There were many chuck holes, causing damage to the cars, and there were a great number of complaints. While there are always constant complainers, there has been a big change in recent years with the street improvements that have occurred...

As a person who has been involved in many youth fairs after arriving in Vernon County, I was highly impressed of the 61st annual event held last week. It has to be one of the best. There are many things that can be said about the fair as there was much to see and do. The attendance was great throughout the week, with community members showing a great amount of interest and support...

The career of a volunteer 4-H shooting sports leader came to an absurd ending last week when David Rutledge left this life experience. He told me that he was going to discontinue being the Vernon County 4-H shooting sports coordinator. He felt it was time for someone else to pick it up. It is understandable that a person after serving as long and in a dedicated manner as he did would be ready to retire...

Recently we had the thrill of watching our oldest granddaughter, Heather, and her two friends via Webcam receiving special recognition at National History Day, held at University of Maryland, June 11-13. They won top honors in the group presentation in the Irish or Irish-American history category. As result they are being awarded a trip to Ireland. This was announced on the front page in the June 20 issue of the Nevada Daily Mail and had been announced on KNEM/KNMO...

What would life be like in Nevada and Vernon County, if all of the volunteers stopped volunteering? Life without the many volunteers cannot be imagined. There are a large number of volunteers contributing to our quality of life in a variety of ways. These people are devoting large numbers of hours of their personal time...

Community plans became a work in progress The Vernon County Vision 2000 was formally launched on February 25, 1999, when a community needs assessment project began with a large group of community leaders. Bob Davis was director of the Nevada Area Economic Development Commission at the time. He and others were excited about the project that also involved Vernon County, the city of Nevada, Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Nevada...

Campaigns come to an end The campaigning for the 2004 election has been going on for months -- even years. Tuesday will be time to cast votes. We should know the results by the next day -- unless it is too close, then we will not know for some time. About half of the population will be celebrating and happy with the results. The other half will be disappointed and sad...

Election includes choice on Amendment 3 Content in a local paper, in my opinion, should be related to local items. Even though he proposed Amendment 3 is a statewide issue, the outcome will effect us in the local area. For the past two years, there has been talk about the upcoming election...

Goat project for 4-H members to consider Last week National 4-H Week was observed, a time for special promotion of 4-H. Effort is being made to recruit new members and volunteer leaders. The theme for this year is "4-H online!" Still, there are many other aspects to 4-H in addition to the computer and the Internet...

4-H is online "4-H online!" is the theme for National 4-H Week, which is being observed Oct. 3-9. It is the time when special publicity is given to 4-H and a special effort is made to recruit new members and new volunteer leaders. Over the years, there have been many themes for the week. ...

The Blitz is on This week, history is being made in Nevada. The area's first blitz build by Habitat for Humanity is in progress. During a 10-day period, a new house is being built by the group. This is the eighth house that the local chapter has built, but it's the first to be constructed in such a short period of time. ...

Developing a new focus on recreation We have resources in this area that most of us do not think about. We have a great opportunity that has never been developed. With the Four Rivers Conservation Area along with other recreation areas, people are coming to Vernon County...

Former 4-H member triumphs over adversity With National 4-H Week coming up next month, much publicity and effort will be put into recruiting new members and new leaders. Many who have been involved in the program have found that it was helpful to them in other aspects of life...

Diabetes: it does not go away Recently, I passed the sixth anniversary since my physician told me that I am diabetic. Learning that I am diabetic has affected my lifestyle in many ways. I am fortunate to know that I am diabetic and I was fortunate not to have it when I was young...

Remembering Judge Kelso Recently, Judge H.A. Kelso made the transition into another dimension. He was a person with much prestige, and I feel that I must say a few things. While being acquainted with him for many years, I have given much thought to a few of the things I remember about him...

Remembering Lucille Butner Some people receive fame and publicity in life. Others go through this life experience without the publicity and may not be widely known, yet they make a valuable contribution while they're here. One of these individuals was Lucille Pettibon Butner. She made the transition into another dimension last week. She lived from the "Mud Age" to the "Space Age," and she enjoyed the changes...

Ya'll come, now Folks bound for the McGennis Youth Center this Thursday, Friday, or Saturday evening will be in for great entertainment and fun. They will be attending the production at the McGennis Old Barn Theater. The special theater will be presenting "The Beverly Hillbillies." Each performance is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. This the 21st year for a "under the stars" production. The admission is $3 for adults and $2 for students...

What's in it for me? The active and enthusiastic Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce is one of the many great things this area has working in its favor. It is one of the best that can be found anywhere. During the month of August a special membership drive is occurring...

You do not have to vote For some time we have been anticipating the primary election. Now it is coming up fast and is to be held next Tuesday. It will be an interesting election. Following that. we will be anticipating the general election. Many are considering it as the most important election that has ever been held, because the outcome will determine the direction this country will go...

Are we at the crossroads? A decision will soon be made by the voters in the Nevada R-5 School District, which has been described as "being at the crossroads." The school board has placed a proposed increase in the local tax levy on the ballot to be voted on Tuesday, Aug. 3 -- which is now less then two weeks away...

Bicycle safety is a constant concern Each year there is a concern for bicycle safety. It is not uncommon to see someone riding a bicycle put himself in an unsafe position, such as not stopping at a stop sign. I have seen kids speed through stop signs, some of them as young as about five years of age -- luckily, no car was closely approaching at the time...

Attend "One of Missouri's Finest" fairs Next week, July 12-17, the 59th Annual Vernon County Youth Fair will be held, and it's "One of Missouri's Finest." This tradition has continued as a great event -- from one generation to another. There are many wonderful aspects of the fair. The fair board and the many volunteers put much effort toward the success of the fair and to benefit the youth who are involved...

Celebrating Freedom Sunday we will be observing a special time in our country's history -- the birth of our country, when the Declaration of Independence was signed. It is a time of celebration and a time to remember the freedom that we have. Perhaps, in many ways, we should now be realizing the value of freedom more than ever. ...

Have you been there yet? There is a new and great facility in operation serving the older citizens of Vernon County, the Vernon County Senior Center. It is a great asset for the community and a great place to go. Several older people have not been there yet; however, more and more are going to the center. One out of five in Vernon County are 60 years of age or older -- a large portion of the population...

Parade will make 'A Tribute To Our American Heroes'