All Roads Lead Home by Kim McCully-Mobley: Recent Episodes
Kim McCully-Mobley
The Ozarks is a region with a rich history, colorful people and a tenacity in spirit that remains unmatched.I will use this platform to help preserve, promote and protect our stories.We all know, at the end of the day, All Roads Lead Home.
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I love the Ozarks and my own backyard; but I also love traveling in the company of those I love.
I was able to do just that earlier this month on a three-day jaunt to Vegas. A little out of my element, I managed to have a blast.
What follows is my reflection on the journey, the fun, the laughter and the concept of home and Toby Keith's song "I'm Not As Good As I Once Was."
In the end, it's true---There's no place like home and I am as good once as I ever was--believe it or not.
Plus, I can be packed to go anywhere in 20 minutes. Try me and come pick me up. I'm game.
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Veterans Day falls during the month of November as we are gearing up for Thanksgiving and other holiday celebrations.
We hosted a Veterans Assembly earlier this month at Aurora High School. It was an honor to help the other organizations pay tribute to our local veterans in style.
Michele Mowris was our keynote speaker. She talked about the loss of her husband, Sgt. Doug Mowris, in Afghanistan some 22 years ago. Also speaking that day was Lt. Col. Jason Ernest, yet another Aurora graduate who knows the value of sacrifice, honor and serving others.
As we move into the holiday season, I encourage to cherish your freedoms and reflect on the words of my longtime friend and mentor Ken Ackley, who used to say that "freedom isn't free."
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It is always better to give than to receive. A favorite belief of mine that comes from Sunday School teachings is that whatever you give away will come back to you tenfold.
That said, please feel free to jump on the bandwagon for the third round of Hometown Partners Giving Circle efforts this year.
The money is earmarked for good things in Aurora, Marionville and Verona. Plus, what makes this even better is that you get to vote on the recipients!
Feel free to contact me for more information.
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I get asked all the time about the state of today's teenagers? Are they different? Do they have good manners? Is there some kind of a disconnect?
Well, let me just tell you about a couple of them from Aurora High School. Jaysa Ernest and Addi Hall represented Aurora at the Annual RYLA Camp a couple of weeks ago.
After hearing them speak last week at a Rotary Club meeting, I can tell you with certainty that they are going to make their marks on the world. They will be able to make their dreams come true and well get a front row seat.
Join me in listening to this week's podcast about a couple of girls who are daring to take a stand for kindness and change.
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This week paved the way for some time in the archives, some old-fashioned research, a couple of fall outings and a handful of stories.
Join me as I share a few fun ones as we work our way towards a few more holiday stories and projects to wind out the year.
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Friday, October 17th, would have been Evan Boettler's 18th birthday. This year should have been his senior year. We should be talking about a senior trip, graduation plans and college. I should be teasing him about calling my friend "Chainsaw Patty" or making him listen to one of my ghost stories as we get closer to Halloween.
His life was tragically stolen from us on January 3, 2024--when a certain kind of evil orchestrated an extortion attempt on a boy who had only had access to social media a few months.
I'm not sure the anger or grief will ever subside; but my hope is that we can become better-equipped as we navigate a future without him. We can join the efforts of his friends and family to educate and advocate about the dangers of social media and the dangers that lurk in the cyber world.
I don't run from the trauma or tragedy anymore. I have learned to welcome them in to sit side by side with me, while I wrestle with things like purpose, sadness, depression and loss. I want to use his story to give hope to others and maybe find a way to navigate through the valleys as we spend time together and enjoy the things Evan loved.
I think we can continue to find ways to celebrate the lessons he taught us in his 16 years with us. I hope to honor his memory by treating others with the same grace and love that he showed me.
I praise the efforts of Brad, Kari, Sikenan and the rest of the Boettler family and their friends as they move forward to help others through Evan's Voice.
The Poker Run is this coming Saturday at Hungry Hollow. I hope you'll join us there--rain or shine.
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We are blessed to have a gentleman living in our community by the name of Darrell Hastings.
He received state honors earlier this month for Good Neighbor Week. To add to his honors, Shannon Walker of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce and I made a trek to his home to give him a cap and ask him a special question.
He said yes to being one of our Grand Marshals for the upcoming Christmas Parade on December 13th.
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How can you be a good neighbor?
Wave.
Smile.
Bake a pan of cookies.
Invite people over for a cookout.
Pickup some trash.
Mow someone's yard.
Help them with a project.
Hold a door open. Go visit someone to see what they need.
Be a good neighbor as we celebrate our community this week. We have a lot to offer. Plus, we have the best neighbors in the state.
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I attended a leadership retreat a few weeks ago with some new colleagues. I have been on fire about it ever since.
I have used it for writing prompts, columns and lesson plans.
I have used it to revamp and recharge my to do list and the circle of folks I want to work with most in these so-called Golden Years.
Take a listen. See what you think.
What do others need to know about you?
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Scott Pettit read the script Friday night as the undefeated Aurora 1965 Football Team made a special appearance at Kelley Field. If you were there, watching online or even listening--you were part of history.
This is the stuff dreams are made of and these dreams have lasted more than six decades as this scrappy team made headlines for their skills, speed, prowess and tenacity. These gentlemen represent the Houn' Dawg Spirit at its best.
The team gathered at Blackbird in the afternoon for an early dinner, made the trek to the Alumni Center for a quick tour and photo. They shared stories and viewed some memorabilia, late sat together to watch the Aurora-Monett game and made an appearance on the field at halftime to greet their hometown crowd with humility and pride.
The fans didn't disappoint them. They were on their feet cheering once again.
Special thanks to Bob Journagan and Scott Pettit for their efforts to bring the boys back home for this celebration. I was honored to be a small part of it as All Roads Lead Home. --Kim (Estes) McCully-Mobley
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Last weekend found me on a quick trip to the lake with my family. We were visiting with friends from Alabama and enjoying some much-needed down time.
We ate, we played, we laughed, we slept. We watched the Houn' Dawgs and the Chiefs from our lakeside cabin, Wranglers' Rest. I loved every minute; it just went by too quickly--as always.
Saturday found us at the Keeter Center slobbering over some ice cream and jumping on a tram later that afternoon at Dogwood Canyon.
The Ozarks. I don't ever tire of her people, her beauty, her stories and her treasures--just waiting to be discovered anew.
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Exploring the backroads and byways of the Ozarks has been a passion of mine for decades. Roads connect people. They have a personality all of their own.
Labor Day Weekend found me rediscovering some places, people and things in northwest Arkansas.
Highway 62 is a historic road with lots of stories, history and fun. If you get a chance, go do a little exploring of your own.
You'll be glad you did!
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These boots were made for walkin'----
I sang that song on the way home from school one day after my first taste of kindergarten. I had enjoyed the opening round of school--for the most part. I did not enjoy the Back To School spanking I had received earlier in the day from my pretty teacher--Mrs. Bolin, though.
Trust me when I say I never saw it coming.
I was hoping that little scenario would not rear its ugly head again.
The chain of events did teach me the importance of timing, paying attention to instruction and wanting a pair of Go Go Boots to kick off the new school year.
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A celebration of life will be held this week for Shari Carmichael of Aurora.
Shari was a prayer warrior, a champion for underdogs and a powerful role model for women of faith.
Her final moments were full of love, grace and mercy. She was worried about others and firm in her beliefs about Heaven and God's grace.
We will honor her by gathering funds for a playground at her church, Brookline Church of Christ. Nana's playground will ring with laughter and hope in the years to come.
Donations can be sent to: Brookline Church of Christ, 3086 N. Brookline Avenue, Brookline, Missouri, 65619. Put Nana's Playground in the memo.
And, if you get the chance someday when someone needs you, take a chance and just hold their hand.
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Has it really been 60 years?
Time flies when you are having fun; that's for sure.
Aurora Houn' Dawgs were ranked first in state in 1965. Those players will be having a reunion of sorts next month.
They were surprised recently to discover they are joining the ranks of the Houn' Dawg Hall of Fame as the 2025 Class.
60 years in the making, players will walk on to Kelley Field before their hometown crowd once more to hear the roar of the crowd underneath those Friday Night Lights.
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I grew up knowing the Pate name.
Juvenile Shoe Factory is what brought my mom to Aurora from northwest Arkansas after World War II.
The Pate girls were pretty, fun and out-going.
Linda was in my class at school.
Later in life, Gale Pate would help start the Senior Advisory Group for the local Chamber of Commerce. I thought the SAG acronym was hilarious. The glaring stares from him, my mother and my first boss, Carl Wise, quickly put me in my place.
When we celebrated Gale's long life a few days ago on a hot July afternoon, we spoke openly about his love for Aurora, his family, his church, his school and his country.
Our legacies don't get much better than that.
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All Roads Lead Home Mural Number 5 is finished.
America's Muralist Raine Clotfelter has worked his magic once again.
I have enjoyed having his presence in the old armory, aka Aurora Houn' Dawg Alumni & Outreach Center during the month of July.
His talent and creativity is rock solid. His determination, faith and ability to always find the good in any situation is literally contagious. He and his wife, Tricia, have become great friends.
Join me in congratulating him on another job well done as helps preserve, promote and protect our community's story.
I love him dearly. But I'm pretty sure I saw him roll his eyes when I told him I had an idea for "just one more."
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I have been on a new journey this summer.
I have spent a few hours each week diving into all things related to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.
Well-known Aurora Graduate Brian Fogle and former CFO president once told me that building a legacy isn't always about money. He said it's about donating your time, your talents, your resources and your passions-- while bringing people together for a common cause. I took that to heart.
This summer I stepped into a role that left me with big shoes to fill. I am devoted to carrying on the good work started by Michele Parbury as the Aurora Area Affiliate Coordinator of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.
I will be serving the towns of Aurora, Marionville and Verona. Their people and this place already own my heart.
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This life.
It is full of joys, highs, lows, surprises and quite often--some hard knocks.
One of my greatest joys is the friendships I have made along the way of my lengthy journey. God always seems to put people in my path just when I need them most.
Wayne Morgan was one of my joys and surprises.
We had been through some tough times together.
One of my hard knocks came this year--when I found out Wayne was going to be vacating his position in Aurora and I would no longer have my buddy--just two doors down.
I consoled myself with the idea that he was still going to be around and we always managed to end up at some of the same places with some of the same people. I guess that's still true--but I'm going to have to wait until I get to Heaven to see him again.
But the friendship and love that he gave me through the years--will be something that I always treasure.
Godspeed, my dear friend.
And--you might have graduated from Marionville, but you still "Ain't Nothin' But A Houn' Dawg.
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I took some time out last week for a working retreat of sorts with my ride or die travel buddy, Ravae Lewis. We have been through a lot together and we have put the miles in, too. (That's not to say we are high mileage. That's not the case, at all.)
We have added up mileage in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Maryland and Pennsylvania. We were politely escorted to the boundaries of a reservation during the pandemic and followed around by a stranger in an old cemetery just last week.
She nearly killed me on the side of the road at a fruit stand. (I was in dire need of a bathroom while she listened to some boyfriend's life story.) We have endured a haunted cabin on the battlefield's edge near Gettysburg and I have flagged down a Schwann's Truck in South Dakota. (It was during the pandemic and I was tired of boiled eggs, snack mix and cookies. I needed some real food. He couldn't sell it to me. So we had to follow him to a gas station and beg the owner to buy it from him and then sell it to me. I felt like I was negotiating something illicit. I just wanted some chicken and a hamburger.)
She was chased by a wandering buffalo in the Badlands on a trip to the woods. An older gentleman called me out in a Civil War quilt shop in Pennsylvania and told me he had been to Heaven and he knew I had, as well. "Tell me about it," he quipped as I stuttered. This was right after my ventilator episode and I hadn't told many people about the whole Heavenly experience in the fear that they would think I was crazy.
We have looked for Elvis in Memphis and fell in love with Jon Arthur's saltwater pool oasis in the Mississippi Delta. We have had spa days, swim days and near altercations with wannabe bikers. We have hiked in all seasons, sipped wine and watched late night crime shows, too.
We have played Scrabble and shared stories. We have basked in the silence when one or the other didn't feel well and needed some space. We had some creme brulee to die for last week at The Old Bank in downtown Russellville. If you go there, I will pay you to bring me one home.
We have cooked for one another, too. Her specialties are soups and biscuits. Mine might be brown beans and cornbread. I can also do a mean blueberry muffin. We have thrifted and gifted, laughed and cried and even took an art class last week, too.
We are both over thinkers and hard workers. We love our friends and family to no end. We love each other, too; even though she broke my heart a little when she moved away.
She gets excited about lizards, butterflies, turtles and groundhogs. I like wildflowers, junk and the sounds of crickets and cicadas at night.
This week's column is about yet another one of our adventures on the backroads. I am hoping for more as All Roads Lead Home.
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This week's podcast talks about a few Presidential things. We especially focus on a young George Washington--who painstakingly copied down his rules of civility to live by when he was a young man.
He would later become a Revolutionary War Hero and ultimately--our nation's First President.
Let's take a look at those rules and a few pieces of Presidential trivia this week--as we celebrate our country's independence.
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I attended a MAACE (Missouri Association for Adult Continuing and Community Education) Conference earlier this month at Lake of the Ozarks.
Crowder College sent a team of us who with in the Adult Education Literacy program. The sessions were perfect. The speakers were rock solid. The handouts were full of great information and up to date resources. We were treated like celebrities.
But one things stood out above the rest. Our keynote speaker was Dan Meers, longtime mascot KC Wolf for the Kansas City Chiefs.
He was the perfect start to a wonderful event.
I'm going to be talking about him for a while.
(Google him. Watch the videos. Read the articles. Buy his books. You are in for a real treat. The world needs more people just like him.)
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Yes. Since 2021--I have been working hard on the nicer, kinder, gentler version of Jennifer Kim Estes McCully-Mobley. (My son once told me my name was not going to fit on a tombstone!)
With Father's Day occurring just last weekend, I had my Dad---Thomas Stanford (Buck) Estes on my mind. Most people called him Stan. If they had known him a long time, they called him Buck.
He was a little rough around the edges at times, but people loved him because he was the real deal. He loved long shots, sunsets and good music. He wasn't afraid of anything. With him, you always knew where you stood.
I have had to conjure him up a little bit in recent weeks. I'm not gonna lie. It felt pretty darn good. I'm thinking God surely understands. Otherwise, I'm gonna have to take a chair with me to those Pearly Gates. I'll have some explaining to do.
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It was a chaotic Sunday morning at Aurora Community Hospital on June 11th, 1961. My mom had a belly-ache and came home with me.
My brother, Randy, said things would never be the same.
My journey has been a fun one, full of skinned knees, chasing boys on the playground and looking for the prize in a Cracker Jack box.
Join me in a trip down memory lane as I celebrate yet another trip around the sun. Here's to 64 years and counting!
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Six local educators have received $150 mini-grants for the coming school year. Their applications were screened and scored by the members of the Aurora High School Leadership classes (also known as A-Tech I and A-Tech II).
The grants are awarded from Youth Empowerment Project, an arm of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. YEP believes in promoting history, literacy, climate, culture, storytelling, fundraising, philanthropy, problem-solving and paying it forward.
Congratulations to this year's winners.
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Aurora High School Graduate Hannah (Isaacson) Rader earned the All Roads Lead Home Award at this year's Chamber Banquet in behalf of her family and crew at The Garden Exchange.
They are always busy making the Summit City look and feel like a Hallmark movie!
They have brought color, fun, celebrations and spirit to an all new level in downtown Aurora in the wake of a pandemic and questionable economic times.
The Raders love Aurora and Aurora loves them right back.
They have proved the adage true once again--that all roads really do lead HOME.
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A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way. Those are words we should all learn to live by.
Several community members took the time to honor Chuck Burbridge last week as our most recent Loyd R. Ellis honoree.
The award is given each year by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce to someone who has given much to the community. The second highest award is presented in honor of an Auroran who believed in community service and leaving a legacy.
Join us this week as we talk about Chuck Burbridge and what he means to us as a leader, collaborator and team player.
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Aurora Administrator Ed Cook has been gone for over 35 years.
His legacy lives on today with scholarships, projects and activities designed to encourage leadership, ethics and sense of place in the rural Ozarks--a place he loved.
Ed Cook was a teacher, mentor, coach and friend.
He was resilient.
He loved Aurora. He loved being a Houn' Dawg.
It was an honor to present a scholarship in his memory last week at Aurora High School.
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With last week's storms and tornado outbreaks, my husband made a bad joke about pulling over to the side of the road and seeing the old lady go by on a bicycle. It took me a minute--while he stifled a nervous chuckle. I told him I got the reference, but it might be too soon to be cracking any jokes.
Humor is a coping skill at our house, though; we laugh about most everything--because simply--crying takes too much out of us in our old age!
That said, it did get me to thinking a little bit about some Wizard of Oz comparisons. And, at the end of the day, Dorothy was absolutely right!
There's no place like home.
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As April rolls out with a few disruptions, I have been contemplating events from April's past. Join me in some reflections on old friends like Frank Peterson, motherhood and moving forward.
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My mom and dad would have celebrated their 79th anniversary on April 15th, tax day, if they were still here. I'm sure they are celebrating in Heaven.
The day had me contemplating their legacies, their love story and the lives of those they impacted in both Arkansas and Missouri (and beyond) during the course of their lives.
Please join me in a trip down memory lane to pay tribute to those blue eyes, relentless spirits and hearts full of passion for doing the right things.
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As we continue to celebrate our Easter season, we are reminded of the concepts of sacrifice, redemption and unconditional love.
We chose to honor two local heroes with the planting of some trees at the Aurora Houn' Dawg Alumni & Outreach Center earlier this month.
Along with some special guests, we planted a dogwood tree and a redbud tree on the facility's southeast lawn.
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The 2025 Rotary Speech Contest is over, but we are still talking about those speeches at Aurora High School.
Senior Kylee Cole placed first this year, while Jaelyn Ernest was second. Malaya Todd was third and Seth Shoemaker placed fourth. These kids knocked it out of the park by being brave enough to tell Aurora's leaders about the things that matter most to them as they get ready to embark on adulthood themselves.
To say I am proud is an understatement.
What would you talk about if you had a room full of people who had to listen to you for at least five minutes?
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Ben Tracy, a national spokesman about online safety, will be here in Aurora on Wednesday, April 9th.
Here's hoping we give him a good, old-fashioned Houn' Dawg welcome as he comes to town to teach us about online predators and things we can do to protect our children.
I hope to see you at Aurora High School Wednesday evening, April 9th. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. The program starts at 6 p.m.
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Officially, it all started in March of 1965.
The Supremes were telling us to "Stop--In The Name of Love."
My sister and her husband are celebrating 60 years of marriage this week.
Join me in wishing them more years of romance and adventure.
They are loved beyond measure.
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Cemeteries.
I like them.
In fact, some of my favorite people are there.
I like finding new ones, wandering around looking at tombstones and going down the rabbit of hole of finding out the stories that are hidden there---just waiting to be shared with others.
It's been a fun opportunity to get to work on a script for walking tour of a cemetery in Northwest Arkansas. I'll keep you posted about how it turns out.
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I focus a little bit on the pending time change this weekend as we return to Daylight Savings Time...a time when I struggle to get my internal clock back in gear.
Time is the stuff of great music, solid poetry and fun adages.
But--we only have so much of it before it runs out.
Here's to more daylight, later sunsets and getting the most out of life.
Enjoy your time!
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Aurora was one of several communities honored in February at the Capitol Rotunda in Jefferson City. Missouri Humanities was recognizing the Small Town Showcase Communities, like Aurora.
Due to a number of things involving time/travel/multitasking and obligations, none of us who had worked with them were going to be able to go.
Marla Dunning Woolstenhulme came to the rescue. Not only does she work right there in the building, but she is a die-hard Houn' Dawg with a passion for all things Aurora.
This week's podcast/story is about her and how things manage to work together for good when people remember the adage: Once A Houn' Dawg, Always A Houn' Dawg.
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This weeks snowstorm derailed a few of us from our regular routines.
I don't really want to talk about it.
But I was stuck three times on Wednesday and two of those were in my own driveway!
Thank goodness, I have folks willing to rescue me when I'm in trouble.
Whatever the case, I hope you are warm, safe, healthy and well-rested.
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It's funny how stories from the distant past become clearer as we grow older, wiser and more experienced. This week, the Aurora High School Class of 1979 lost another classmate--Jeff Thach. Fortunately, we were able to see him in the fall when he showed up for some of our 45th reunion activities. I never thought about that being the last time we would hug his neck.
This week--I talked about my favorite things this week on Facebook. My favorite things are my tribe, my circle, my people--if you will. I decided long ago you just can't have too many friends (or shoes), but friends are way more important.
This week's podcast and newspaper column is dedicated to a pal from my childhood: Willa Faye Hubbard. I don't get to see her or talk to her as often as I'd like, but her folks were always good to me and we shared many a popsicle back in the day.
Out of a 60-plus year friendship, we only had one bad day that resulted in her, for some reason that I most likely totally deserved, ground my Tiger Tooth Decoder PF Flyer Whistle into the dirt. I had owned it less than two hours.
Easy come. Easy go. I'm truly blessed.
Friends are worth more than any ol' whistle.
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Today is Super Bowl Sunday.
I've got my fingers crossed for those Chiefs!
I have also been in quiet reverie all day...thinking about how far I've come in the last four years.
Four years ago today I came off a ventilator. I still remember going back and reading my son's posts on Facebook that February 9 was a GOOD DAY!!! He talked about how grateful he was for the love, prayers and support our family received during those rough times.
There have been others in our circle who have encountered rough times since that day. Some are still here. Others are not. It's not lost on me how fortunate I am to still be here---despite the long journey that getting back to normal has taken.
I remember the emotions all too well.
But, I sure love all of you.
God is great.
Life is good.
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This week's podcast includes an update on last week's quarterly Aurora GRO meeting and a tip of the hat to an Aurora graduate, Michael Parbury, who is coming home to open a restaurant in downtown Aurora.
To say that I'm excited is a huge understatement.
He has made his mark in the culinary world in Springfield and had the urge and the opportunity to come home to purchase a house and open a business. The name of the business is: Winston's: The Ol' Dawg Gone Bar & Grill. The logo includes homage to the military history and the Houn' Dawg roots about our first dog and the legacy that has been created ever since.
It's no secret I love Aurora. I love being a Houn Dawg and I love our history. To see a former graduate epitomize my slogan of: ALL ROADS LEAD HOME--makes my heart happy.
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We are magnificent creatures--when you think about it.
We are hard-wired to rely on our gut instincts. We are created to survive.
Our bodies and brains are often resilient and fragile at the same time.
I seem to have a heightened sense of awareness these days about listening to my gut, heart, brain and body. I pay attention to what it is I think they are telling me that I need to do.
I'll share a little bit about that this week.
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I grew up watching Andy Griffith. I still watch the reruns when I can today. It never gets old. During the pandemic, I freelanced a bit as a consult for a doctoral candidate on the east coast.
My cohort, Max, was diving into the use of music on the popular 1960s era show and spoke about his own personal connections to the theme song.
One of the things we discussed at that time was the way everyone in a small town knows your business, good or bad, and how ultimately most everyone came together to do the right things and show some small town love a the end of every episode.
That's what I write about this week in the never-ending tales in the All Roads Lead Home arena. You'll have to let me know what you think.
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A couple of weeks ago, a friend took me to show me a local treasure--full of history, nature and a few surprises.
The Lakeside Forest Wilderness is nestled in the heart of Branson with over 140 acres of natural beauty and over five miles of walking trails.
If you haven't seen it yet; put it on your list. You'll be glad you did!
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Every January gives us time to pause, reflect, change, grow and move forward with intention and purpose.
Some folks I know are moving into the new year with heavy hearts due to illness, death, grief or pondering the unknown.
I would like to pay tribute to the losses and honor those lives with renewed strength, passion and hope for a better tomorrow as we honor those lives well-lived.
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If you know me at all, you know I often march to the beat of a different drummer. Sometimes it doesn't look like marching at all, but that's another story.
I like disco dancing, crazy socks, Zane Grey first editions, mud puddles, pretty rocks, hunting arrowheads, finding fossils and hanging out in cemeteries.
I like reading obituaries, doing research and digging through layers of dusty papers, old books and correspondence.
This week's column talks about an upcoming project that will combine a few of those favorite things in the coming months.
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I love everything about Christmas.
They have always been magical to me.
I love thinking about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem and the wonder of how Santa Claus can possibly make it down all those chimneys in just one night!
The psychology and science behind my sense of place work supports holding onto nostalgia and recalling good memories of times past.
Join me and a couple of friends in a few reflections today as I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
(I'll warn you now. I sing again on this one!)
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Earlier this month, a young and energetic man strolled into my classroom at my invitation. He is the new recreation center director---Anthony Finzo.
He has been on the job about six months and is anxious for the new $12 million facility top open up after the first of the year.
He was fun, honest, authentic and thought-provoking. I can't wait for him to come back and visit us soon.
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This week's podcast is a little long.
Bear with me. I created an oral review of a recent article I wrote that was published in the Fall/Winter Edition of Ozarks Watch.
It answers some questions about the Ozarks, its history, why it's so important and how the intricacies of the region are always/always/always calling me home.
I reflect on a century of stories, landmarks and crossroads that have ultimately brought me to where I am today.
Fortunately for me, I bring a few of you with me each week through the stories I shared in a variety of platforms.
This time is no exception---as All Roads Lead Home.
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Here's a little tribute to my Mama--Ina Faye McMorris Estes. She would have turned 100 years old today--November 27th, 2024.
She has been gone a while, but her legacy of love, hope, faith and kindness remains behind today.
I am kicking off my 100 Acts of Kindness Tour today in her memory. Please join me in doing the same over the course of the next few weeks.
Happy Thanksgiving! (Give your people big hugs from me.)
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Pie became a staple of American prosperity in the 1950s after Word War II.
It has a unique and colorful history and has shown up in literature quite often.
One of my favorite songs is "American Pie" by Don McLean. It is long and it is truly a classic.
So, it seemed nothing short of prophetic that I attended a pie class last week in Arkansas. The fun part was eating the pies--or so I thought. The real treat became apparently when I found a new friend and a new project.
We'll see where this journey takes us.
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We celebrated our heritage, patriotism and people quite nicely on Saturday, November 9th, at the Aurora Houn' Dawg Alumni & Outreach Center.
We dedicated our two most recent mural panels--that are perched on the north side of the Alumni Center resting proudly as folks drive by on Highway 39.
The panels commemorate our community's roles in past wars and conflicts, as well as the honor, sacrifice and service displayed on a regular basis by our first responders.
We tied our celebration and dedication to the week of Veterans Day, but rest assured---we'll be celebrating all year long.
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https://cfozarks.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=10504
Click on that link.
It will take you to the Hometown Partners Giving Circle Fund with the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. We are starting our second campaign at $100 a pop to give the power of grantmaking to the communities and citizens we serve.
Together, we are powerful.
Together, we can make the magic happen.
Together, we can serve our communities in big and small ways to make a difference for future generations.
Giving, serving and loving each other should be our legacy.
I hope you will join me in making your donations to our Hometown Partners Giving Circle Fund.
The deadline is midnight December 31st.
It is truly better to give than to receive. (Our parents were right!)
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We will be dedicating our two newest murals at the Aurora Houn' Dawg Alumni & Outreach Center on Saturday, November 9th.
We have tricycle races, food trucks, live entertainment, booths and a silent auction on tap for the day. You won't want to miss it!
Please plan to join us and be in the dedication photo at 2:45 p.m.
This was a community project with our rich history in mind.
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I love the changing of the seasons in the Ozarks. I love the hot sun in the summer and the snowflakes being caught on my tongue in the winter. I love snuggling under the covers and sticking my head out to drink some hot chocolate.
I love the smell of grass in the springtime and the yellow daffodils that greet me on the way to work each morning as days begin to get a little bit longer.
But nothing prepares me for autumn in the Ozarks. I am always surprised and giddy when the reds, oranges and golds begin to splash across the trees and land at my feet.
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I took a few minutes to share my devotion with you today on my podcast. I think most everyone I know is dealing with something. A couple of verses popped up about turning things over to God today as I was praying and working on some journaling.
It's easy to say and harder to do. We serve a loving God who wants to help us move mountains. Sometimes we have to climb them first.
Deep breaths. Baby steps. Let's get moving.
The King is coming.
We serve a Loving God.
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Coach Pat Woods and his 1999 brigade of Class 3 District 10 Champions will be inducted into the 2024 Aurora Houn' Dawg Hall of Fame Class next Friday, October 25th, at Kelley Field.
Also included in the ceremonies will be Jane Baker and her cheerleaders, as well as local media legenda---Paul Donley, Mark McCully and Mike Edwards.
Once A Houn' Dawg, Always A Houn' Dawg rings true as these gritty, spunky, relentless heroes from our past put us on the map once again.
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Here's a little extra PODCAST POPUP for the week as my longtime pal, Ralph Lauffer, is celebrating a milestone of a birthday.
He is a die-hard Houn' Dawg with a big heart.
I am proud to call him my friend.
Join me in wishing him continued success in everything he does.
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We have been celebrating Homecoming Week this week at Aurora High School. If you know me at all---you know that I love/love/love everything there is about being a Houn' Dawg. I hope I never outgrow it. Being a Houn' Dawg is a pretty cool thing to be.
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The 1970s had the best cars, the best hair and the best music. I just can't believe it's been 45 years since we graduated from Aurora High School. I close my eyes and it seems like yesterday that I was stomping through the halls in my overalls and dancing on Saturday nights in my favorite cowboy hat. Here's to my pals from 1979. I can't wait to see you again soon. I love the stories!
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Here's my tribute to the Aurora High School Class of 1980, who gathered in Aurora earlier this month to welcome themselves to the land of Social Security. Here's another trip down memory lane for the kids from 1980. The years have flown by; but some things stay the same.
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Aurora Coach Pat Woods and his 1999 State Champs will be honored on October 25th at Kelley Field. They are the 2024 Class for the Aurora Houn' Dawg Hall of Fame.
I was able to spend part of an afternoon with Coach Woods a couple of weeks ago. I remain forever changed at the humility, strength and wisdom of this man--who is truly a local treasure. Please join me in congratulating him on his honor!
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As a storyteller, writer and longtime folklorist, I have been blessed to be asked to write and talk about this region called the Ozarks.
New audiences want to hear the stories. Old audiences want to know more.
Others are intrigued, but aren't sure why.
The Ozarks. She is full of joy, gifts, mysteries and nuances that whisper my name in the wind. My soul is so anchored to this region, I couldn't leave it--if I wanted to.
But. I. Don't.
My roots are here and they run deep. I come from hillbillies and dancers, moonshiners and lawmen, cowboys and farmers, prayer warriors and hard workers. I come from mud pies and laughter, grit and loyalty. This will always be home.
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We take some time this week to revisit the legends and stories of our favorite Aurora, Missouri Mascot---that beloved spotted Houn' Dawg. The tale goes back well over 100 years and involves grit, spunk, tenacity and a few come from behind surprises. This unique mascot shows up in songs, poems, tales and headlines. We love him dearly. Here's to the next 100 years of Houn' Dawgs and even more surprises.
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Jim Sawyer was a colleague and a friend for years back in my hard-hitting journalism days. I learned a great deal from him. He has been gone 21 years and I always reflect on him when September rolls around. He was strong, kind, brilliant and loved stories. He was a master at telling them. He was a good listener, too. I miss him.
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It's true. You can' pour from an empty cup. You also can't really love others the way they deserve until you learn to love yourself.
I wish I had learned those things earlier in life. But, at least I finally learned them. After all, I am a late bloomer.
Take a listen to this week's podcast and see if there is something there for you. Join me in my journey towards better self-care.
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We have another Aurora legend celebrating a big birthday on Tuesday, August 20th. He literally inspired hundreds, if not thousands, of students to be successfull--both in and out of the classroom.
Gene Kirkham will be turning 90. They broke the mold for band directors with him, for sure.
This week's podcast is dedicated to him.
If you can spare a few minutes, grab a card and send it to him for our big surprise "Card Shower."
Gene Kirkham
3913 Wakefield Drive
Columbia, Missouri 65203
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As the sultry hot days of July 2024 wound to a close, my son took his mother on a perfect adventure. She was able to enjoy some of her favorite things in a short 11-hour time span that she will always remember.
We were able to spend 11 uninterrupted hours together and travel 484 miles across Missouri in the process. I don't know that I've ever been to Macon, but it now holds a special place in my heart.
I sang, I clapped, I cried, I laughed and I celebrated Don Knotts' 100th birthday in style with 300 of my new-found closest friends.
I also watched my late-in-life hero Sean Dietrich perform and revisited some favorite memories from Mayberry, where things were simpler and life lessons were abundant.
Take a listen and join me in reliving this adventure. I'll warn you now--I sing on this one. Sorry/not sorry.
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If you attended Aurora High School during the 1960s, 1970s or 1980s, chances are--you were exposed to the exercise regimen prescribed by Coach Poss Jackson and the Chicken Fat song.
Poss turns 100 years young during August and will get celebrated in style with an open house at the Missouri Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon.
His legacy is one of discipline, humor, hard work and success.
Hats off to this Aurora Houn' Dawg legend.
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1969 was a time for change.
Woodstock made headlines.
People were often protesting the Vietnam War.
A new dynamic duo--Paul Newman and Robert Redford--would soon steal hearts the world over with their performance in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Hairstyles were creative. Music was phenomenal. Tie-dye was in vogue and cars were cool.
Take another trip down memory lane with me as we talk about the 1969 Moon Landing.
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Quite often--I hear voices.
I don't always talk about them or tell anyone for fear they will think I'm a little off center. I think these voices are echoes from my past. They are tied to my journey--both the one I've taken and the ones I've yet to take.
But these voices say things like: Just do it...Follow your heart...Your story isn't over it...or even--Tell the story....
One particular night in April. A series of photos on Faceboook had me on point. My gut instinct said for me to try to bring this piano home.
As a child, it was a place I went to escape...to sing...to play and wonder about my love for music. It was a big piece of furniture that took up a good chunk of our living room.
I didn't realize how 60 years later, it would still be tugging at my heart.
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My latest podcast is a makeshift tribute to my friend and colleague, Bill Baker.
Bill was a champion for all things Aurora. He was kind, loyal, supportive and strong. A man of great faith, he believed in the good in people.
He went home to Heaven last week on the 4th of July. He celebrated his patriotism in style as he walked through Heaven's Pearly Gates.
We will miss him.
But, one thing is sure. We were better for having known him.
Godspeed, my friend.
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I don't believe much in coincidence.
As a chronic overthinker, I always think everything has a reason.
So, when a yellowed June 30th, 1932 newspaper fell into my lap on June 30th, 2024, I decided I was to pay attention.
I scanned the newspaper for messages. I found a few. I am sharing some of them this week. I will share a couple more later.
In the meantime, stay cool, celebrate your freedom and always be open to your own "rendezvous with destiny."
Cheers.
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A couple of social media posts about a 1910 auto tour had me thinking about the backroads and byways of this region I call home.
The lure of the open road is one filled with picnics, fishing holes, adventures, scraped knees, sweaty pigtails and sometimes Spam sandwiches.
Join me on a journey that goes all the way back over 100 years.
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Prayers are being answered for me and my family every single day.
A colleague told me 30+ years ago that learning was a lifelong journey. He was my mentor at Drury University, where I had launched an extensive plan for my master's capstone and long-term plan.
Little did I know then how right Dr. Dan Beach was!
Here is the next podcast about a new role I have agreed to do for Crowder College.
It fits well with all of the other things I am doing.
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This week marks yet another milestone for me.
I am 63 years old!
I was born on a Sunday at 2:30 a.m.--in 1961.
I was six weeks premature and my mom supposedly thought my arrival was just gas from the sweet potatoes she had eaten for supper.
I slept in a dresser drawer until they were quite sure I was going to live, I guess.
I have been defying the odds ever since as my story has unfolded.
But, here I am, celebrating the gifts of love, faith, friendship, wonder, adventure and grace.
Thanks for celebrating it with me.
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It's so easy to get into our daily routines and block out the people around you.
Sometimes we are under deadline.
Sometimes we have a big, looming task in front of us that demands our attention.
I have found it quite rewarding in recent weeks to reach out to a couple of strangers who happened to be placed in my path. It didn't take much time to hear their stories, reflect on their wisdom and count my blessings with the memories they shared.
The lessons they invoked since those encounters have continued.
I am pretty sure they were "angels unawares."
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To know him is to love him.
He's got a heart as big as all outdoors.
He sings John Denver songs at the top of his lungs and makes you want to join in. He can do the Macarena, the YMCA dance and outwork any 10 people I know.
His name is Chris Ackley and he has been a friend of mine for almost 60 years.
Recently, he was named one of Aurora's Hometown Heroes.
Join me in reiterating why I think he received this honor.
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While 1939 was a banner year for movies and music. It was still a time of tenacity, endurance, sacrifice and teamwork for Aurora, Missouri, and thousands of communities just like us across the American heartland.
Take a trip down memory lane with us this week as we take a minute to celebrate the 85th Birthday of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce.
And, cheers, to our favorite redhead, Shannon Walker, who makes the magic happen---time and time again for a community that knows how to take care of its own.
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We wrapped up the fourth All Roads Lead Home Mural in May.
We will be installing it in June--where it will reign over those traveling Highway 39 for the next several decades.
The project is patriotic and literally stunning. Pictures don't do it justice.
In essence, we will be dedicating this historic building back its roots and the heroes who sacrifice their own well-being for our freedom and safety every single day.
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Endings are sometimes bittersweet.
We are excited for the next leg of the journey.
We want to find out what life has in store for us.
I was asked to put together my best advice for this year's graduates.
I read this to them this week at our Senior Celebration Assembly.
I have taught at the university level for over 32 years.
I have taught at Aurora High School for 20.
I like touting traditions. I love our story and our mascot.
I enjoy teaching. It isn't really something I saw myself doing long-term--ever.
But I fall in love every semester with the kids who walk in and out of m doors.
I try hard to listen to them and look them in the eye.
I want to know what makes them tick. What challenges are they facing?
What are their passions? What can I do to help make a difference?
I want them to know I am a lot like them. I have faced some of the same things.
And Aurora---was always a great place to land.
Connections.
Relationships.
Journeys.
The beauty in much of our work here on earth lies in the imperfect roads we take along the way. As we celebrate new beginnings and observe a few endings, let's keep looking at the possibilities we can achieve together along the way.
The 4th All Roads Lead Home Mural is underway.
It is classic, patriotic, colorful and huge!
Soon, it will greet folks on Highway 39 as they enter and leave Aurora's city limits.
The patriotic project has been designed by our own muralist---Raine Clotfelter, who is trying hard to retire.
Later this year, we will dedicate this one to area veterans and first responders.
Stay tuned for more details. The story is yours and we are so proud to tell it!
My college students have been working hard. I have been working harder to keep up with them. We have talked all things leadership, philanthropy and communication. I have used the texts, additional resources, guest speakers, personal experiences, support from my field of colleagues and friends and more to help prepare them for the real world.
With our shared dialogue, it has become ever apparent of a need for transparency, trust, elbow grease and a moral compass in the working class arenas outside of the classroom.
As we near the finish line of yet another successful semester, I hope you discover what kind of leader and what kind of person you want to be. It's more important than ever to surround ourselves with like-minded folks.
Last week found a covey of students joining me at a meeting of the Aurora Rotary Club for their annual speech contest. Every year I am always so impressed with them. I am the Mama Duck in the room beaming at her ducklings.
The criteria is simple. They pick a topic about their world that they would like to change, grow or improve. The do some research, formulate a main idea, develop a call to action and learn something about the Rotary Four-Way Test.
The adrenaline and energy was palpable. Having a live audience made it personal, timely and relevant. But this year---they blew it out of the water with their creativity, personal connections, calls to action and their topics---which were both powerful and personal.
I have heard from most of the Rotarians in attendance that day that this year's "were the best yet." I believe them.
Our future is in good hands. And that's the truth.
Our small rural community is nestled in the Ozarks region I call home.
It seems we have been hit hard in recent years with tragedies involving our teenagers.
One such event occurred here in the park on Easter Weekend.
I'm not sure what the answers are.
I wish LOVE could cure all ills.
In the meantime, we need to make sure we are there for those who are grieving.
We need to stand in the gap to find answers to prevent this from happening again on our watch.
Last week was magical.
I was invited to serve on a panel for Ozarks Teacher Corps. This eager group of new teachers--getting ready to embark on their respective rural school journeys--welcomed us with open arms at the Springfield Nature Center.
I was able to revisit my why, see some old friends from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, and recall why Sense of Place work is so valuable to me in my professional journey.
Ultimately, I was also able to remember a special lady named Norma Eden who brought the magic to education for me back some 50 plus years ago--when third grade Kimmy found a sense of adventure, wonder, excitement and fun around every learning corner that came her way.
Norma Eden is this week's Unsung Hero for me. Who's yours?
Feel free to reach out and tell them.
My friends, Brad and Kari Boettler, agreed to allow information from a police investigation to be shared with the public in the wake of their son's January 3rd suicide.
Evan Boettler was the best of the best. He was a stellar student, a role model, a fun kid with a sense for adventure. He loved his family, his friends and his community.
I miss him every day. He was a bright spot in my day at Aurora High School. His tragic death has been hard to accept. Like everyone else, I want him back. I want to rewind time back to the afternoon of January 3rd so that I can find a way to keep him here.
But the best thing we can do is what the Boettlers are doing. We can share his story. We can have tough conversations. We can advocate for resources to help others in these same situations. We can promote a way for tougher laws for social media platforms that might pave the way for others to prey on our children. We can be a collective voice for change.
Evan was a victim. Some evil-doers tried to extort money from him over some compromising photos. Evan did not want to bring shame to those he loved.
His life matters. It will always matter. His legacy is one that is saving lives as we speak.
Sometimes days, events, discussions and side conversations cause you to go down the proverbial rabbit hole of digging deeper into something you thought you already knew a lot about.
Then, a few discoveries brings the real picture a little closer into view.
A casual comment from an interested student might result in the Mobley death glare---but only for a moment.
Enjoy this week's diatribe about our dear Aurora Alma Mater and how I didn't write it. But I did add a third verse this week.
We will continue to sing thy praise, Aurora High School.
This was another tough one. I apologize for the heavy breathing and the emotions.
This version is the best I can do for now. I kept trying to get it just right in one sitting.
This is one of those Paul Harvey "rest of the story" moments that some of you are old enough to understand.
This is a story about friendship.
This is a story about God's gifts.
This is a story about Heaven, art, legacy and ultimately LOVE.
I spent some time reflecting on loss, growth, healing and moving on this past week. February is sometimes hard.
February of 2024 taught me not to get too comfortable as some of those close to me continued to deal with some tough stuff.
I lost a couple of good friends, gained a couple of angels, saw some former students, lost another first cousin and heard some not-so-good news about a couple of other friends, as well.
I texted a good friend. "We're droppin' like flies," I said. He responded. "Because we are old." "Well, you are," I said.
This life. It's wonderful and messy, sweet and humbling, harsh and kind.
I'm not giving up. It's not my nature.
I'm ready to go fishing.
Here is a lesson plan called My Perfect Day.
Ironically--the steps of the process made for a magical day.
In fact, the students managed to write my column/podcast this week all by themselves.
I'm still looking for a few mud puddles, bargains and backroads.
Now that the Super Bowl is over and our Kansas City Chiefs are Back To Back Champions, let's explore some Aurora connections to Chiefs Kingdom. I'd like to pay special tribute to Pat Talburt, one of our local hometown heroes.
I love talking things over with former students and colleagues who hold a variety of positions in the business/professional world.
At least once a week, someone shoots a dilemma my way for me to weigh in on and offer up some sage wisdom or advice.
We talk about dishonesty, mismanagement and even green-eyed envy from time to time. Sometimes I get to talk about leadership and success. I talk about not being afraid to fail. I love talking about forgiveness and grace. I enjoy giving advice on eye contact and body language, too.
Most of the time, I get to chime in on common sense, self-care and moving forward.
Take a listen to this week's podcast. Maybe there is something there you'll like.
It was an honor to join forces once again with the Alumni Center, the Aurora Basketball Program and local fans wanting to welcome the 1993-94 Boys Basketball Team back home to pay homage to their skills, accomplishments and the overall legacy they helped to instill in our community some 30 years ago.
The names of Journagan, Floyd, Thullesen, Turnbull and Calhoun still resonate in the hearts and minds of die-hard fans.
Join me in another trip down memory lane as we honor some well-deserving fellas.
GRO Aurora is in its eighth year of existence as part of an ongoing partnership with the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.
While we have graduated to a more independent level the past two years, the shared resources and the collective energy continue to bring Aurora to the spotlight for all of the good things going on here in the Summit City of the Ozarks.
Hats off to those who have relentlessly kept it going to make sure we follow our code of conduct and amplify the efforts of those who continue to do things for the right reasons in the right way.
The year of 1965 might seem like a long time ago to some.
To me, it seems just like yesterday. I love reading about the books, the music, the cars and the people who were making the headlines for us back then.
Ironically, a few of them are still around making headlines today. Cindy Munday is still student of the month material for serving her church, school and community. Bob Journagan is just as tough today as he was on the 1965 football squad that were dubbed champions by the Kansas City Star. T.A. Morrison is still a local feisty doctor--even if he is supposedly retired these days.
Close your eyes. Take a listen. See what you think as we travel back in time.
A tragedy struck my community shortly after the new year got underway in January. With the tragic loss of a 16-year-old boy--Evan Boettler--we have all managed to come together to love, serve, grieve and somehow move forward.
Please join me in paying tribute to his legacy.
Chase a few sunsets.
Take a few hikes.
Make a new friend.
Go fishing.
Find an adventure.
Pick up some pine cones.
Hunt for that big buck.
Give yourself some grace.
Love your people.
The boisterous Ethel Merman sang "Everything's Coming Up Roses" in 1959 for the Broadway Musical "Gypsy." It was a memoir of sorts brought to life on the stage. The show sent the message that sheer will and determination can put the rose-filled mindset in place to be successful. The show was based on the life of Gypsy Rose Lee.
20 years later, everything did come up roses for the Aurora High School Marching Band--who performed in the Rose Bowl Parade before millions of viewers to put Aurora on the map once again.
Join me this week in my trip down memory lane for a special New Year's Celebration.
With the start of a new year comes new commitments, new strategies, new ideas and renewed energy regarding the journey and ultimately, the destination.
I have been pouring over some boxes of newspaper clippings, old letters, vintage photographs and mementos of the past. I ran across some interesting information about my hometown and a pledge people took at the beginning of 1926.
I am intrigued by the thought of hundreds of people taking a specific pledge of sorts in commitment to their community--a place where quality of life was becoming as important as the local economy.
"...No man is a failure who has friends."
That's the Mark Twain quote that appears in "It's A Wonderful Life," that classic 1946 Frank Kapra classic that features George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart, who is down on his luck.
The holidays can be challenging. Even when we celebrate--we are often dealing with stressful situations and challenges. Life is messy and often complicated. Bad things still happen to good people every single day.
But those things just give us another opportunity to show the world who we really are. We also realize that with friends, family and a great community--we are indeed--rich, after all.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
My first hour students and I share a special bond at Aurora High School.
We start the day with each other and have developed a trust. I often share past talents and stories with them in order for them to get a glimpse of the crazy lady I have become.
This ain't my first rodeo and it took me a long time to get this way. My first husband and I used to sing all over southwest Missouri. He tried, more than once, to get me to yodel because he thought there was a need for it.
I also told him I could twirl fire and the stories sort of went downhill from there.
So, the kids have been asking me to sing for weeks. I've had a cold, an earache and a sore throat. I finally took the honey/lemon/hot tea plunge and recorded this for them this past weekend. It is what it is. But my heart is in the right place.
Again, apologies to Hee Haw fans---everywhere, as well as all of the yodelers near and far.
My mother, Ina Faye McMorris Estes, would have turned 99 years old today--if she were still here. I know she is celebrating up in Heaven--with just a few of her favorite people. I hope she knows how much she is missed and how often we still talk about her. She was hard-working, strong and regal. She was anchored in faith. I remain grateful for her legacy and for the fact that her blood runs in my veins.
We will be featuring a variety of local authors from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 16th, at the Garden Exchange in downtown Aurora. You won't miss it!
You can support local writers and get some last-minute shopping done at the same time.
Where did it all start?
That's a great question.
Maybe it started in the hills of Northwest Arkansas.
Or maybe it started on the back roads on the steps of a little, log cabin my Grandpa Herman built in the 1920s.
It could have started while I was dancing a little jig to Cripple Creek, while my Grandpa Frank's fingers danced across the strings of an old banjo.
Take a listen to this week's podcast.
Then, you can decide where you think it actually started...this need to preserve, promote and protect these stories about the people I love and the places I call home.
Stories.
They anchor us.
They keep us grounded and focused.
They keep us entertained and laughing.
Stories can cure us and help us.
At the end of the day, stories keep us alive.
Grandpa Herman set the bar for me when it comes to storytelling.
Who set the bar for you?
What stories do you have to share with me?
My Youth Empowerment Project students attended a Leadership Conference in October at Ozarks Technical College in Springfield.
The keynote speaker was a 19-year-old mayor from the Arkansas Delta who has plans to hit the Oval Office in the near future.
Take a listen. His story is pretty inspirational.
My students paid close attention.
I was able to celebrate the lives of two women I love this past month. Sharon Benton Whitehill's life was celebrated in Nixa. She was only 67 when she left us, but managed to fill her life with love, growth, opportunity, color and connections. Her legacy remains intact.
Dorothy Dobyns celebrated her 100th birthday with multiple parties and events. Her life is one of courage, resilience and love. Both women have found joy in their journey and have managed to share that joy with others in the process.
For that--I remain grateful.
When the world presents turmoil, confusion and despair...look for the good.
The Paradoxical Commandments tell us to forgive anyway, build anyway, do good anyway and give the world the best you've got anyway.
When I get the urge to tell folks where I think they are missing the boat, stirring the pot or causing dissension in the ranks, I go back to my corner to focus on the good...Anyway.
It works---every single time.
September found two leadership panels visiting Aurora High School to share their experiences, advice and wisdom with local students.
Take a listen to the ideas of Shannon Walker from the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, John Paul Lee of First Independent Bank fame and Dr. Ben Yocom, our new superintendent of schools.
Ten years ago in September, my husband had a stroke. It was a learning experience, to say the least. It also prepared us for what we would both endure a few years later in the midst of the pandemic.
Like most of you, we consider ourselves survivors. We have had some ups and downs in our journey together. Faith holds. Love remains.
As a writer, I often feel led to write about those who are closest to me. I know sometimes they don't mind. Sometimes they do. It is a delicate dance that I try hard not to abuse.
I am honored with this life we have been able to have and the lessons God has allowed us to share.
As always, thanks for your support as I meander my way through these stories for the podcast.
When the Twin Towers were hit by planes during September of 2001, people across the world were numb with shock, grief, anger and new feelings of patriotism, pride and love for their fellow man.
This is part of my memory of that fateful day, that serves as a benchmark for the War on Terror and the feelings that came afterwards.
It has been in the works for several months.
The people who serve us every day have been looking for new and improved ways to add more grant funds to the table for our rural communities.
It is finally happening. Hometown Partners Giving Circle is being launched to give area residents some skin in the game of collective giving. We can all donate $100. Then, later we can all decide by voting where that grant money is going to go.
I love the power that we have together. We are stronger together. We are better together. We are building trust layer by layer in the towns that we serve.
Kelley Field is the namesake of an important person in our community's history. He was young, vibrant and full of compassion for his fellow man--despite the horrors of war he had endured. Howard Kelley was, by all accounts, a remarkable man who loved Aurora and its people.
As we welcome our Cassville visitors tonight for the first home game of the 2023 season, I'd like to go down the halls of history a little bit and remind you that you will be on the sidelines of some pretty sacred ground.
See you there!
Twenty years ago this month, I met a man who would change my world...for the better. He is smart, funny and a heck of a dancer.
I am quite certain God put him in my path for tons of reasons. I am looking forward to the next 20 years.
I am celebrating him with a song he played for me...not long after we met. And, yes, I am still hoping someday he lets me lead on the dance floor. But, I'm not holding my breath.
I fell off the boat the past few weeks and was busy with grant reports, curriculum, new teacher events and some family obligations.
I was asked today why I had not posted any Hee Haw popups of late.
Well, these two are pretty rough; but here you go.
I am hoping Jack Muench, Tom Morris and Scott Pettit are good sports and won't retaliate.
My brother went to Heaven five years ago today.
I miss him terribly.
But I know he is having the best time.
He was quite the character. I hear stories about him everywhere I go.
That Estes spunk was part of his demeanor.
He played hard, worked hard and loved even harder.
His big blue eyes live on in the eyes of his children and grandchildren.
Faith holds.
Love wins.
And All Roads Really Do Lead Home or HOME.
The concept of home is a combination of things that trigger memories and feelings of being safe, happy and loved.
Mike and Mona Thach and Billy Redus were all three recipients of the awards this year at the Annual Aurora Chamber of Commerce Banquet.
I love it here.
I love Aurora.
I love the Ozarks. There's no place I'd rather be.
These honors are pretty special to me as we talk about legacy, love and paying it forward.
Please excuse the couple of stumbles. I have had a hard time with my emotions every time I start to record this week's podcast. This is as good as it's going to get.
I recently met up with some classy gals from the Aurora High School Class of 1963. Their names are Pam, Connie and Pauline.
Their class made a donation to our work at the Aurora Houn' Dawg Alumni & Outreach Center.
They also issued a challenge for other classes to do the same in the wake of the upcoming All-School Reunion this fall.
I enjoyed the walk down memory lane. I hope you will, as well.
I have been taking jaunts to Roaring River since I was a child. I recently embarked on a retreat to the banks of the rippling waters. I love the lore, the people the magnetic pull of the river and the green vegetation along its banks.
Roaring River adventures are looming on your to do list. Do yourself a favor and take a trip there before the summer ends. You won't regret it. I promise.
(You'll have to pardon my stuttering a couple of times. I was on my third recording of this narrative and kept feeling like someone was behind me...and it's not even Halloween!)
With Back to School events looming on the horizon, conversations about technology and its use and abuse seem to crop up in tons of conversations.
I work with incoming teachers at Aurora and always get asked about do's and don'ts of social media and promoting our school and community.
Here's some information that pertains to all of us as we navigate the ever changing aspects of technology in a fast-paced world.
I have been singing my way through the hot summer by reflecting on old shows, old songs and old memories from days gone by.
This might be one of those "you just had to be there" moments.
If you want your own personal Pfffft, You Was Gone song written and performed,
just let me know.
My backroads pal, RaVae Lewis, and I found ourselves at a most unlikely picnic spot in the Arkansas delta a few days ago. Let me tell you the story behind this dilapidated field. You won't want to miss it.
I have been on a few adventures with my travel buddy, RaVae Lewis, the last few years. Covid messed us up a little bit last year; but we are always planning that next outing---Thelma & Louise style.
We spent a few days meandering around the Arkansas Delta last week.
I wrote a column about it and revamped it a little bit for this podcast.
I am happy to be home, but I will always love the lure of the open road, the back alleys and the ghost towns of days gone by.
Once more, I am either offering up a spoof or parody of a sacred Hee Haw hym...called Where Oh Where, Are You Tonight?
I have been working at the Alumni Center/Old Armory this week.
Let's just say the spirits/ghosts and my imagination have not disappointed me.
There are sounds being made that I'm pretty sure I'm not making...But, at least I haven't hurt myself by running to the parking lot yet.
Would that be workmen's comp?
We just wrapped up a grant project based on dental health and better hygiene.
Thanks to the hard work of our partners, the grant project has been deemed a big success.
Dental health has been linked to better circulation, heart health priorities and better self-esteem. Here's hoping you become dedicated to rest, brushing your teeth, better nutrition and exercise this coming school year.
We need you to stick around awhile, because...Barry Manilow and I...well...
WE CAN'T SMILE WITHOUT YOU!
We will be hosting a dedication of the All Roads Lead Home Veterans Honor Garden this coming fall.
A large, midnight black granite stone has been set near the flagpoles to call attention to our two World War I veterans heroes: Howard Whitsett Kelley and Harold Leo Turner.
This stone has been a long time coming and has been made possible through grants provided by the City of Aurora, Missouri Humanities and the Aurora Affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (among others).
It is an honor to be a part of this effort to preserve legacies and protect our stories.
I hope you'll join me in this journey.
I celebrated a milestone birthday this month and I absolutely love it. I am proud of all 62 years---even though my friend and colleague Jimmy Sexton inadvertently placed a headline about a 102 year old Aurora woman next to my head on last week's front page of The Aurora Advertiser. Ramona Lewis is a class act, for sure.
Don't mind me, though, as I hop, skip, jump and plunge into the next circle around the sun. But just be aware that I will probably be making some Wild Kingdom animal sounds in the process.
Here you go with some more odes and Hee Haw spoofs as I pretend I am a singing/dancing/tambourine playing gypsy.
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I was dared to do some more podcast popups...so I did them. (I once ate hand lotion for money on a dare in the first grade. It did not end well, but I did make about 75-cents. But, to my knowledge--my neighbor Harold Thurman took my secret to his grave.
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If you have some song topics, just send them my way and I'll get to work on them.
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My friend--Ravae--has a birthday tomorrow. She will ALWAYS be older and wiser than I am.
This week has been a heavy week in our community.
I needed a little levity today and have decided to further my career options as a country western singer/tambourine player/table dancer upon retirement...which is part of my five-year plan.
We have all kinds of boutique popups these days for special events. We even have food truck popups. So, consider these 72 seconds of wailing sort of a little podcast popup in tribute to my boss's impending retirement.
He picks on me. A lot. My dad picked on me growing up...so did my brother. So, I sort of equate harassment with love. I am going to flat out pretend he really loves me and hope that I can keep my job until I can swing a contract with the music industry for spoofing songs or writing heartfelt parodies.
Don't try this at home. My apologies go out to Hee Haw fans worldwide who enjoyed 26 seasons of real comedy and real music.
Our community, as well as several other towns around us, suffered what has been described as a "tremendous tragedy" in recent days. Some of our friends are planning four funerals in the wake of what was supposed to be a benefit fundraiser.
It was a beautiful day as the unthinkable happened as 11:20 a.m. on Saturday, June 3rd. Hundreds of lives will never be the same. We don't understand it.
I hope we learn from this awful event. I hope we become better people. I hope we do some soul searching to make sure we make better decisions. I hope, as Christians, we pray for all of those involved---even the driver of the car who caused this grief and trauma. I do understand the anger and the pain. I just don't think it's good to stay there.
Hug your people.
Make a difference.
Do the right things.
Make good decisions.
Life is too short.
Several of us joined together last week to help Chris Ackley place flags on the graves of some 1,100 veterans in Aurora's Maple Park Cemetery. This annual project is a nice backdrop for a Sense of Place Award we received last week from two national groups.
This Signature Award will help us pay tribute to our own veterans in a variety of platforms that are getting a jumpstart this summer. I will also benefit with some more professional development in the fall in Tennessee. I can't wait.
Among those set to be honored are our own Medal of Honor Recipient Harold Leo Turner and yet another World War I Veteran who made a mark on our town---Howard Whitsett Kelley.
My longtime boss/colleague/friend and mentor Billy A. Redus is retiring this summer. This is a small tribute to him that reveals my song-writing talents and my unwillingness to tell him goodbye...ever.
I am quite sure the admiration I have for him is probably one-sided. I am okay with that. I know I am...a lot. I would apologize, but my intentions are good, I swear. All joking aside, Billy is a man who makes everybody a little bit better with his sheer presence in a room.
He is a little bit Marionville Comet, Crane Pirate and Aurora Houn' Dawg all rolled into into one.
(I apologize for the heavy breathing. The pollen count in Barry County seemed really high this morning.)
Here are my lyrics to the song spoof...50 Ways To Leave Aurora.
Eddie Valen added a little bit of creative license to them, too.
The problem is all
Inside central office they said to me…
The answers are camouflaged if you take it personally…
I’d like to help you in your struggle to be free.
There must be—50 ways to leave Aurora.
She said it’s really not my routine to rebel.
I really hope you know you can’t really be expelled.
But I’ll repeat myself…at the risk of causing hell.
There must be 50 ways to leave Aurora.
You just jump out the door, Billy.
Get a little silly with Willie!
You don’t need to be witty…sh…bitty.
Just set yourself free.
Hop in the jeep, creep.
You don’t need to really weep.
Just drop off the keys, Redus.
And get yourself free.
You just jump out the door, Sqwilly.
Get a little silly with Willie!
You don’t need to be witty…sh…bitty.
Just set yourself free.
Hop in the jeep, creep.
You don’t need to really weep.
Just drop off the keys, Billy.
And get yourself free.
**She said, “It pains me so
To see you in such grief.
I wish there was something I could do
To make you really leaf.
I said, “I appreciate that
And would you please explain
About the fifty ways?”**
**Mobley said, “Why don’t we both
Just sleep on this thing so dire.
And I believe in the morning
I’ll probably get fired.
And then she hugged me
And I realized she probably was right
There must be fifty ways
To leave Aurora.
Fifty ways to leave Aurora.**
You just jump out the door, Billy.
Get a little silly with Willie!
You don’t need to be witty…sh…bitty.
Just set yourself free.
Hop in the jeep, creep.
You don’t need to really weep.
Just drop off the keys, Billy.
And get yourself free.
You just jump out the door, Bill.
Get a little silly with Will!
You don’t need to be witty…sh…bitty.
Just set yourself free.
Hop in the jeep, creep.
You don’t need to really weep.
J
I have always been a sentimental girl. I cry when Ernest T. Bass throws rocks on Andy Griffith or when I see a sad little puppy photo on Facebook. I cry at the drop of a hat. I cry when I leave on vacation. I cry again when I come home. It usually takes 10 seconds for the first teardrop to fall.
Last week's graduation ceremony was no exception as the first senior traipsed across the stage at Aurora High School.
I'd like to blame it on hormones, men, age or allergies---but the truth is something much different. Go with me on this journey of reflection and sense of place as
All Roads Lead Home.
I had a Friday morning visit to the local radio station to spread cheer, information and random trivia along with the host of Friday's morning show---Bill Lewis. My longtime friend and colleague.
He had another guest with Aurora roots. Brett Heman joined us in behalf of the Monett Chamber of Commerce. Brett had some great ideas about collaborating with area communities to host bigger and better events for the citizens they all serve. We talked about shopping small, shopping local and supporting the ones who support you.
I serve on the board of directors for the local Chamber of Commerce. I think this is my third stint on the board and I have helped with a variety of committees in the past. My nephew is president. My son has served as treasurer. I do believe a community's Chamber of Commerce is much like the school---it sets the tone and attitude for the entire community when it comes to growth, economic development and quality of life.
I am working on expanding my podcast and collaborating on a variety of projects designed to promote/protect/preserve our stories. My grandpa always told me to watch for signs and to pay attention to my gut instincts. My gut instincts are rarely wrong.
I watch people's eyes. I pay attention to body language. I read and reread emails, letters and texts. Join me on this journey about people, places, stories and truth. Help me encourage others to share their tales, find their collective voices and prioritize what matters in this thing called life--as All Roads Lead Home.
It has been 44 years since I graduated from Aurora High School. How can that be possible? I am still dreaming about Trans Ams, Willie Nelson and John Travolta. I love to disco and I still wear tie dye and feathers. A bonus comes as I realize I am still writing for The Aurora Advertiser and attending classes at good ol' AHS.
Take my words of advice with a grain of salt. I may have a high school diploma and three college degrees, but I have learned the most from the School of Hard Knocks. In fact, I have graduated with high praise from that particular university.
Life is short. Have fun. Keep celebrating. And remember,
at the end of the day---All Roads Lead Home.
We recently took 22 students and six chaperones on a two-day field trip focusing on humanity, resilience, taking a stand, finding your voice and sharing your stories. This particular podcast focuses on the firs day of our journey. It involved a visit Rohwer, a Japanese Internment Camp Site during World War II, and a visit with Richard Yada, who was born there.
One of the things Yada told the students when he shared his story hit home for me. He talked about how remaining silent can send a message of complicity. I realize we can't all fight all the battles.
But speaking up about the things that matter most does send a clear message to the people around us. We need to stand for truth, fairness and doing things the right way for the right reasons. Take a listen. And if you find yourself in McGehee, Arkansas, eat at The Owl's Nest and look up the mayor--Jeff Owyoung. You'll be glad you did.
We are down to one dog at the Mobley Chicken Ranch & Cowgirl Emporium. We lost Polly in October of last year. We said goodbye to Otis yesterday. We don't have any chickens. We are down to one wayward cowgirl who doesn't seem to want to play by the rules. She has a good heart, though. We have one hard-headed hillbilly/biker/cowboy. It is awfully quiet. It seems the longer we live, the more our lives are often defined by the losses we bear. A good friend told me that tears show us how much we love. Pockets, our big-eared singer, is left behind to chase squirrels on his own. I poured my heart out with this one. I promise to write a rowdy one sometime soon. Just remember:
---All Dogs Really Do Go To Heaven. And, Goodbyes Aren't Forever.
This week is Homecoming Week at Aurora High School--my alma mater. We are also hosting a Valentine's Day Blood Drive, a Black Light Dance and Houn' Dawg Hall of Fame Induction for two local hometown heroes----Brian Fogle and Walt Pettit.
I can't remember a time in my 61+ years when the Fogle and Pettit names weren't uttered in my household. Both men have made an impact on thousands of lives in the Ozarks. They are humble, selfless, energetic and charming.
The Aurora Houn' Dawg Alumni & Outreach Center is proud to be a part of this event as we partner with Youth Empowerment Project and AHS Student Council. Advisory board members include: Michele Parbury, Jack Muench, Bob Journagan, Scott Pettit, Marcia Sadler, Jake McCully and Shannon Walker. Brad Boettler and Kim McCully-Mobley serve as co-directors.
As always--Once A Houn' Dawg, Always A Houn'Dawg has never held more true that it does today.
Here is a podcast/newspaper column I put together last month in tribute to Franklin David McCully, the father of my son and an individual I am still grieving. I hesitated to post it here. It's personal and it's still a little too raw. But I want the words, his story and the message preserved and protected somehow. I spent a year as a girlfriend, 10 years as his wife and a lifetime as his friend. The world has a big hole in it with him gone in the physical sense, but I see his face in the stars, I hear his voice in my songs and I feel his presence when I'm sad. He didn't like being sad. He didn't like other people being sad either. He loved parties, celebrations, holidays, adventure and fun. He loved old movies, all kinds of music, classic westerns, Andy Griffith and Star Trek. One of my last messages from him when I asked him how he was, said "I'm the handsomest sambitch you know." It still makes me laugh.
Here in the Ozarks, we have a sense of gratitude and grace on a daily basis.
Celebrating nature's bounty and the richness we share with relationships and opportunity are second nature to us.
I hope you don't mind humoring me a little as I reminisce about some favorite Thanksgiving memories and a little history lesson, to boot.
Our Leadership Class for the 2022-2023 school year helped decorate a wooden Christmas tree for the downtown square this holiday season. They are resilient students--who have been through a pandemic and some other challenges during their high school careers.
Above all, they are strong, creative, fun and determined. I learn as much from them as they do from me.
Each of them selected a word and a quote to talk about the power of words and self-fulfiling prophecy this holiday season. Please enjoy their Christmas wishes being sent your way---now and always.
Our media writing students created this script after decorating a special tree for our Community Christmas event in downtown Aurora. Each student focused on a character from the movie Up, which focuses on a character named Carl, who is old and cranky and in dire need of a friend.
Through this tale, we learn about wisdom, sacrifice, friendship and love, as well as the significance of a few surprises along life's journey.
We talked about our feelings for each other, our community and how at the end of the day--All Roads Lead Home. It's a little rough, but I think you'll get the message.
"Touch down. Every morning.
10 times.
Not just now and then."
If you attended Aurora Schools between 1962 and 1986, you were probably exposed to exercising you tail off to the 45 record of CHICKEN FAT as Coach Poss Jackson led the charge.
At 98 years of age, he is showing up to help with the coin toss at Kelley Field at the Bell Bowl.
His legacy continues.
We are all just proud to be a part of it.
...."and don't be chicken again."
The Houn' Dawg mascot has a long and colorful history.
When you see the slogan: Don't Kick Our Dog, just know that it is paying homage to the story's military roots--that predate World War I.
If you see Once A Houn' Dawg--Always A Houn' Dawg, it is picking up on the school's passion for its spotted Houn' Dawg mascot that dates back to about 1925.
All in all, the Dawg/Dog is full of tenacity, spunk, surprises and come from behind determination. If his original name is Winston or Windsor, we just know that he is charming, fun and hard-working.
Elvis said: You Aint Nothin' But A Hound Dog...and there's just nothin' I'd rather be.
I get asked a lot about the history of Kelley Field.
People want to know who the football field is named after.
They ask about the spelling of it.
They sometimes inadvertently suggest a name change, right before my head
starts spinning and I do a little stomping.
The stories about our past are important.
They help us know who we are, where we've been and where we are headed.
Take a listen to my story about Howard Whitsett Kelley.
I first wrote this as a Facebook post in the spring--when the shutdowns of the virus first started. Now...some eight months later, things still seem to be up in the air. We have hostile discussions on the news regarding politics, we have growing numbers of Corona cases in Missouri. We have folks who have suffered. We have others who have plunged forward. Regardless of what we are facing or what may come our way next, here is my best advice.
Aurora has been selected as a partner site for a traveling Smithsonian Exhibit called Water/Ways. It is available for viewing now through October 12, 2020, with the price of admission at the Discovery Center in Springfield.
Water is an essential part of our lives for hydration, cooking, gardening, recreation, hygiene and splashing around in the rain. Think about it and take a listen.
In the midst of a worldwide pandemic, I drove to town on this sunny April afternoon to tie up some loose ends on a grant and put together some food baskets for Aurora citizens.
I was rested, happy and feeling rather productive when all hell broke loose in the cab of my truck.
Here's my story and I'm sticking to it.
This is an episode I worked on to help promote local legends, lore and history with my students at Aurora High School.
I interviewed some former Houn' Dawgs on December 15th as we kicked off our Hometown Teams Exhibit in Aurora. On hand were: Michele Parbury, Randy Lechner, Stan Lechner, Jack Muench, Pete Young and Kenny Downing, our Parade Grand Marshal. This is unedited and unabridged. All in all, the interview helps capture something special about growing up in Aurora...living life as Houn' Dawgs and coming together again despite the miles, the years or life lessons to remain: One Town, One Team, One Heartbeat.