To any readers that follow the Bradleyville News on this blog page:

I have moved the Bradleyville News blog page to a different page. I have several different blogs and it was a hassle keeping them straight, so if you still want to read the news I send to the Taney County Times and the Douglas County Herald, please go to that page and bookmark that page. Just click on:

Bradleyville News 

All my old posts have been moved there and that is where I will put any new posts.

Thanks for reading...Bradleyville News

News for the week of August 13, 2014

So thankful for the nice rains we have been getting. It should really help with our fall pasture and the next hay cutting. My flowers are sure enjoying it. I am not the the most consistent when it comes to watering flowers and it has finally dawned on me that is why they don't look so good during the hot summertime weather we usually have, so I have tried to be better this summer and water almost every morning.

I met up with Ann Fuller last week and got some pink, single bloom hollyhock seeds from her and also some winter creeper. I love the old fashioned, single bloom hollyhocks. My Grandma Sloan had a backyard full of hollyhocks and I remember them so fondly. It is hard to find seeds for the single blooming ones. The seed companies, even the heirloom seed companies I have tried don't usually have them. I have a few burgundy colored ones but crave a few different colors.

School will be starting this week and I encourage everyone to stay aware and watch for the bus stops. The highway department puts up the signs and orange flags to remind us also which is wonderful. Along with school starting there will be volleyball games and Jr. High basketball through September and October.

Don and Robyn Whittaker and daughter Sarah took a 12 day trip out west. They went to the Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone, Devil's Tower, Glacier Park, Logans' Pass, Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, Berthoud Pass and Kremmling, Colorado. Donnie and his family lived in Kremmling for a few months in 1952 and they took a picture of the place they stayed in. Robyn said they saw elk, moose, deer, antelope, buffalo and a momma grizzly and her two cubs. She said the best part of the trip was seeing daughter Sheila and family in Everett, Washington.

Last Saturday New Mansion Church youth group made a trip to Dickerson Park Zoo. Julie and I took all four of her kids. We were very thankful Alicia, Jason, Danielle, Jared and Hayden were there also to help wrangle all of them. Of course we were a half hour late because we are always a half hour late when it involves all the kids but they enjoyed it and so did we. Garrett thought the tiger was cool because it started growling and walking while we were looking at it. The black bear was really up close to the viewing glass when we were looking at it and he thought that was really funny also.

Next Saturday is going to be fun too, we are going to attend the talent show and chili/spaghetti dinner to raise money for the New Mansion Mission Team for the mission trip to Faith Home Orphanage, Honduras. There are around twenty entries from the area that are going to be in the talent show and there will also be a silent auction. The Hunsaker Family will be singing before and after the talent show. Sounds like it will be a wonderful time. It will start at 2:00 in the afternoon on Saturday, August 16 at the Whiter River Youth Camp in between Taneyville and Kissee Mills Jct.

Gene and Louise Stevens and grandson Brady took a week long road trip to Colorado last week. Louise's mom, Juanita Shortt went with them. They had a great time and saw lots of pretty scenery.

Birthdays for the coming week: August 13: Kirk Baird, Delbert Johnson, Tamra Whittaker; August 14: Joyce Adams, Larry Clark, Roger Hodges, Bonnie Hurst, Danny Williams; August 15: Donna Blair, Ally Swift; August 16: Sue Birdsong, Teresa Koenig, Joe Sartin; August 17: Micah Dayne Howie; August 18: Weezie Butler; August 19: C.G. Paul; August 20: Sara Jo Nash.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: August 16: Scott and Julie Lawson; August 17: Gerald and Karla Yeary; August 18: Bill and Melba Austin.

TALENT SHOW, CHILI/SPAGHETTI DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION FOR FAITH HOME MISSION TRIP

News for the week of July 23, 2014

This summer seems to be flying by. Maybe it seems that way to me because I have been having so much fun playing with our small grandchildren. We have four of them age three and under and they sure do keep us on our toes. The twins have started the climbing phase with nothing too high for them to try to climb. Then it's a race to see who can reach them before they tumble to the floor. In the meanwhile the new baby who is almost two months old is making his voice heard in the background.

Our great-granddaughter Avery celebrated her first birthday with the family at the park in Ozark last Saturday evening with cake and gifts. It was a wonderful evening and the weather was perfect.

Bob is still hunting the black cow that took off when he brought her home from the sale barn. Bob has walked miles and miles hunting for her and has found some sign but no cow yet. She has been gone right around a month now and may have a new calf with her by now. We sure would appreciate it if anybody notices an extra cow hanging around to let us know.

Got a card from Sharon Grider a few days ago from Wyoming where she has been visiting some friends. Beautiful mountains and scenery. I think they are planning a trip to Yellowstone before she comes home. Definitely a place that is on my bucket list.

Stephen Thomas has just returned from spending almost two weeks gone on a mission trip to Quito, Ecuador. I'm sure he will have many amazing things to tell about from his trip.

Birthdays for the coming week include: July 23: Danny Hampton, Joe Horner; July 24: Paul Horton, Keshia Mann, June Rhodes; July 25: Reggie Badovinatz, Amanda Heun, Greg Lumley, Josh Marsh, Amanda Puckett, Dean Nelson, Amanda Schreier, Gina Swift, Wayne Yeary; July 27: Hannah Guerin; July 28: Bridgette Storts, July 29: Steve Hunsaker; July 30: Jessie Case, Dot Combs, Rick Pollard, Deborah Rogers.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: July 26: Kent and Darla Day; July 29: Roger and Dee Dee Hodges.

News for the Week of July 9, 2014

Happy summer to everyone! The temperature is supposed to climb this week but it has been so pleasant the past couple of weeks with the slightly lower temps. Bob sure has enjoyed the lower temps and a couple of days of lower humidity.

Our next door neighbors to the south were sitting outside a few days ago when they heard a noise. They looked around and there was a black bear standing in their yard. Different people have seen them so close and even in our road leading to our house but we've never seen one here. I don't know whether to be happy about that or not. I know one must be out there close somewhere. Makes me a little nervous about picking blackberries but not enough nervous to keep me out of them. Bob said I'd be okay as long as I didn't get between a momma and her cubs. Well that makes me feel better. I better just take the car or 4-wheeler when I go so I can make a little faster getaway.

The Bradleyville FFA took a week-long trip out west recently. Kids that went on this trip were Dean Clark, Megan Fox, Luke Clemans, Caiden Cash, Trey Boyd, Shekinah Clemans, Mariah Clemans, Emily Todd, Gabe Shipley, Megan Lovelace and Hayden Crouch. They were accompanied by FFA teacher, Clint Gailey and his wife, Hannah. They did a lot of camping and went through Nebraska, traveled on to the Pacific coast in Washington State, came back through Idaho, Montana and Wyoming on the way home. I know I missed a state or two but don't know the exact order. They had a great time and saw a lot of sights and wildlife.

I'm a week or two behind, but congratulations to Jack and Stacey Clemans and their family on the adoption of their son, Greyson Michael. Jack and Stacey recently traveled to China to bring their son home. He sure is a cute little guy and seems very happy to adjust to life here. He couldn't have been adopted into any better family than Jack and Stacey's.

Congratulations also to Bandy and Staci Dalton on the birth of another son, Creed McGarett Dalton. Creed was born early in the morning on June 28 and weighed 7 lbs. 9 oz. He is very adorable and I've heard a lot of people say he looks like his Grandpa Joe Norwine.

New Mansion Church had a great celebration for the 4^th of July. The VBS program started at 3:00 on Sunday afternoon, then outside for lots of fun games. At 6:00 everyone filled up on pulled pork and loads of side dishes and desserts. Around 7:30 everyone gathered in the ballfield beside the church to watch R.O.A.M. Those initials stand for Riders on a Mission, a great group of young Christian men who rode their motorcycles and four wheelers, did stunts and rode up ramps and jumped from one ramp to the other. Great entertainment and all the kids loved it. I think all the grown-ups enjoyed it too. After this entertainment there was some turtle racing, and then at dark Cindy Todd sang the national anthem and we all enjoyed fireworks.

Next Sunday at 2:00 in the afternoon there will be a baptizing at Hercules for those wishing to be obedient in this step of faith. Several from New Mansion VBS will be baptized.

Birthdays for the coming week include: July 9: Jerry Henning, Debbie Marsh, Arica Todd; July 10: Norma Burkhart, Glenda Floyd, Shelly Rogers; July 11: Mike Flanigan; July 12: Hannah Howie; July 13: Josh Adams, Harley Guerin; July 14: Ginger Harmon; July 15: Phillip Day, Cindy Todd, Jarett Yeary; July 16: Ron Clark, L.T. Collins, Richard Gott, Jan Robertson, David Rogers, Richard Stoecker.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: July 13: Vic and Deanna Badovinatz; July 14: Vernon and Barbara Fuller; July 16: Junior and Peggy Hicks.

News for the Week of June 11, 2014

The weather sure has been perfect for transplanting trees and flowers the past few weeks. I got two volunteer maple trees and a redbud tree transplanted and several flowers. I still have a couple of trees I need to set out and a few more flowers but the way the forecast looks I still have time. They hardly know they have been uprooted and re-planted when it stays so wet. On the downside, I have to keep my computer unplugged almost all the time from the fear of lightning running in on the line. I wish I had gotten a laptop instead of a desktop now, since I could go ahead and use it during bad weather. Lightning might run into my router but it wouldn't hurt my computer. I could stand the cost of a new router better than a computer. They say hindsight is 20/20.

Every two years the Bradleyville Alumni Association hosts an all school reunion. The all-school reunion for 2014 will be held on Saturday, June 14, beginning at 6:00 pm in the Bradleyville School gym. This reunion is for anybody who graduated from Bradleyville School, anybody who ever attended school there, anybody who ever worked there in any position, and even if you never attended there but just want to visit or eat. The FFA chapter will be preparing food for purchase which will be barbecue sandwiches, coleslaw, baked beans and a drink. A plate will be $5.00 with the money going towards FFA activities and trips. Each of the classes with members present will be recognized. Any alumni who have passed away since the last reunion will be honored with a moment of silence. Two worthy individuals will be recognized and inducted into the Bradleyville Wall of Fame. There will be an election of officers for vice-president, secretary, and treasurer. There will be plenty of time for visiting and picture taking. There will also be pictures on display of former years. Eddie Hunsaker is president of the alumni association and invites and encourages everyone to be present.

Congratulations to the family of Scott and Julie Lawson on the birth of their new baby boy, Caiden Briar Lawson. Caiden was born on May 29 at 8:09 in the evening and weighed 6 pounds and 13 ounces. Caiden was welcomed home by big brothers Garrett and Emmett and big sister, Makenna.

Congratulations also to Brandon and Lori Burkhart on the birth of their baby boy, Jaxon Reid Burkhart. Jaxon was born on June 2 at 3:21 PM. I know Grandma Vicki and Grandma Connie can't wait to get in their rocking time with this long awaited little boy!

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Richard Mitchell last week. His services were June 9^th at Clinkenbeards in Ava and final resting place at Goodhope Cemetery. I will always remember his kindness as a first responder when our daughter Julie wrecked our car by Plainview School with Danielle and Courtney as passengers. He was very kind and went above and beyond which I am sure is what everyone who knew him would say about him. During his battle with cancer he still had a wonderful testimony to share. I know he will be missed by all who knew him.

Lynn Case and her family went to the bull rides at Ozark last Saturday and had a great time. Lynn said she saw one of my best friends in the world, Carol Case sitting a few rows down from them. Carol is no relation to me through the Case name but her and Bob are distantly related back through the generations. Carol and I have know each other all our lives and were best friends in school. I could fill up an entire page with all of our similarities and coincidences in our lives but they would probably be boring to everyone else. Just a couple would be that we both married somebody with a last name of “Case”, both of our husband's fathers died of brain cancer, and we are both grandmas to twins.

Birthdays for the coming week include: June 11: Sara Whittaker; June 12: Baylee Hurst; June 13: Roger Chaney; June 14: Katie Hodges, David Murphy, Raymond Swadley; June 15: Elsie Combs, Calley Matthews, Amy Strahan, Wyatt Whittaker; June 16: Tom Braden, Samantha Copas; June 17: Shannon Baird, Arnold O'Neal; June 18: Karla Yeary.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: June 11: Jason and Alicia Crouch; June 14: Dennis and Sara Case; June 17: Clarence and Shelley Rogers.

News for the Week of May 21, 2014

Another Monday here in Bradleyville. The old song lyrics, “rainy days and Mondays always get me down” is running through my head this morning. I have always substituted the word “never” for the word “always” in those lyrics, because I have always enjoyed rainy days and I have always enjoyed Mondays also, kind of a relaxing day for me after a busy weekend. This Monday, though not rainy, is very cloudy. I would rather it rain than be cloudy and gloomy but I know Bob and others that have to work outside are enjoying the cool temperatures and the clouds that keep the sun off of them while they work.

On a brighter note, my hummingbirds are enjoying themselves immensely. I have around twenty or more swarming around two feeders. There are one or two bullies that sit guard duty on top of the feeders but there are just too many for the bullies to run off. It is so much fun and enjoyment to me to watch these little birds.

I talked to Kathryn Braden and she sent some information to me that she would like everyone to know about. The regular annual meeting of the Eldridge Cemetery Association, Incorporated, will be held at the cemetery on May 25, 2014, as specified in the Association's by laws. There will be a short Memorial service beginning at 11:30 AM with the Association and Board of Directors meeting to follow. A covered dish luncheon will follow the business meeting. The cemetery is located 3 miles south of Bradleyville and east off Hwy 125, approximately 2 miles on Eldridge Road. The public is invited to attend. Please bring your lawn chair and covered dish. Table service will be provided. If you have any questions call 417-785-4380.

I am behind schedule this year. I usually buy some flowers to decorate graves all through the year so I will be ready when Memorial Day gets here but I haven't bought one flower yet. My peonies seem to be behind this year also and some are just now beginning to bloom so I may take bouquets of peonies this year.

We were able to attend only one night of revival at Caney Church to hear Randy Dalton preach last week but we enjoyed it very much. Randy had a message to really make you think and examine yourself. We also enjoyed hearing Timothy Sims sing “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. He did a great job and really sang from the heart and that is what is important to me.

Congratulations to Landon and Eva Millard on the birth of their son, Rhett Michael on May 16. Rhett weighed 8 lb. 10 oz and was 22 inches long. Lots and lots of beautiful black hair. Big sister, 4 year old Jerica will love helping Mom and Dad take care of him I'm sure.

Bradleyville's Kindergarten class of 2014 will graduate at a program at the school on Friday, May 23 at 2:00 in the afternoon.

Many schools are dismissed for the summer already but Bradleyville still has a little time left to go. There will be no school on May 26 in observation of Memorial Day and then the last day of school will be on May 27 with a dismissal at 12:45. Summer fun begins then, along with summer school and many ball camps.

Birthdays for the coming week include: May 21: Dean Clark; May 23: Alvin Nelson; May 24: Caleb Blair, Ruth Hodges, Cameron Potter; May 26: Ryan Caldwell, Judy Whitaker; May 27: Cassandra Horner, Jessica Kisling, Nona Norwine.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: May 21: Ron and Judy Alstatt; May 22: Jeff and Tammy Spicer; May 26: Kelvin and Melanie Whittaker; May 27: Jackie and Gail Adams, Bo and Judy Bonner, Bubba and Lisa Taylor; May 28: Bill and Sue Guerin.

News for the Week of April 28, 2014

We escaped storm damage although several friends and neighbors have reported damage in varying degrees. So sorry for the loss of life and property in other parts of the country. This is normal spring weather for the area and it has been late this year for tornado type activity but it is one thing I always dread. I don't really worry about it and I actually slept through any bad weather we had but I hate all the destruction from storms of this kind.

One nice thing that comes out of all that rain this time of year is mushrooms. People have been finding lots of mushrooms and Bob has brought in two or three messes while he has been out turkey hunting or working. Last Monday morning after the storms he brought home a plastic sack full of large white morel mushrooms. I hadn't seen any that big in several years. I've also seen a lot of pictures of people finding the big red beefsteak mushrooms although all the ones Bob has found have been the morels. Bob is the mushroom finder at our house, I can't find one unless maybe I tripped and fell with my face landing in front of one.

I talked with Connie Haes for a while Monday and she said the Caney/Roberts Cemetery near Hilda will hold dinner at noon and business meeting to follow on Sunday, May 4^th.

The Bradleyville FFA under the guidance of Clint Gailey went to state competition and the Forestry Team took 2^nd in state, the Soils Team took 8^th, and the Meats Team placed number 15 in state. Three out of four on the Forestry team took group I individuals and Chance Ingles received a State FFA degree.

On April 30 Bradleyville School will have Kindergarten screening from 8:30am-2:30pm for all children starting Kindergarten next year.

The Spring Concert for the high school will be held on Thursday, May 1 at 7:00pm. The band and choir always give an outstanding performance, directed by Chris Sprague.

Also on May 1 there will be a baseball game at Bradleyville, with Everton, starting at 4:30.

The annual Walk/Run will be held on Saturday, May 3 this year, and it is also a snow make-up day. It starts at 8:30 in the morning for registration with the walk/run starting at 9:00.

The Athletic Awards and FFA Awards ceremony will be held at Bradleyville School on May 6, starting at 6:00pm.

It's a little far out, but I will mention also baseball at Lutie on May 8, starting at 4:30 and then on May 9 the FFA fish fry will be held at 5:00pm. I'll have more information next week.

Graduation for Bradleyville School seniors will be at 7:00pm on Saturday, May 10^th.

Birthdays for the coming week include: May 1: Echo Combs; May 2: Nicole Hunsaker; May 3: Bill Birdsong, Cindy Clark, Sara Jane Fleharty, Marnita Hughey, Kim Scott; May 4: Brady Rogers; May 5: Ethel Bunnell, Jan Clark.

A very special Happy Anniversary to Pete and Novella Knight of Washington State who have been married for 74 years on May 3^rd.

Also on May 6: Mike and Nicole Hunsaker.

News For the Week of April 21, 2014

Our deepest sympathy is with the family of Glenda Day who passed away last week. We joined a large crowd at Bradleyville School last Saturday to mourn her passing and also to celebrate her life. Pastor Sam Kaunley shared many wonderful stories of times he had spent with Glenda and Jim and their family and gave encouragement to the family and all of us present. I think everyone must have their own special memory of Glenda and the years that she and Jim owned Jim's One Stop in Bradleyville.

Glenda also wrote this news column for many years and did it better than I could ever hope to. I was apprehensive about taking it over to write but Glenda always had an encouraging word for me. Glenda was one of those people who was one of a kind and I know I am not alone when I say I will always miss her.

Shirley Hall wrote this about Glenda and it fit her so perfectly. I have included it here with permission:

“You know you are really famous when you have only one name. In Bradleyville, when someone said "Glenda" everyone knew who you were talking about.

In my mind's eye, I see a soft spring day full of sunshine. The Southern boys have filled up their trucks, eaten, bought lunches and headed out. There is a lull as the warmth of sunlight gently invades the town. The door to the station opens, Glenda bustles out, and refills the hummingbird feeders as she did every spring and summer day. Her steps are small, quick and lady-like. Someone comes by to pick up ice on their way to go fishing and we hear her husky laugh as they tell a funny story.

So it was with every season, Glenda, always busy. When they came back with that string of fish or that bunch of mushrooms or that big gobbler or that big or not-so-big buck, Glenda was there to capture it with her camera. She put it on her "Brag Board" for a while and then always gave it to the person to keep. How many hundreds of kids treasure a picture of their first deer or turkey and their big fish that was taken by Glenda.

Her tiny little wedgie shoes and her big glitzy purses and her incessant work with Jim to start and keep the fire department going were all trademarks of Glenda.

And so spring and summer faded into autumn, as do our lives. We gather those things that mean the most to us, and Glenda gathered her family, including those precious little ones to her. She carefully guided the fire department into the hands of the next generation. Yes, we will miss you, Glenda, but you left us a rich legacy. May we all strive to do the same. “

Our sympathy also goes out to the family of Ada Edwards. She passed away last week after surgery. I will always remember her sweet smile and visiting with her. She always had a good word to say and it was always fun to see her and her sister Betty Day out running around together before Betty passed away. I really missed her and Betty and others at Association this year. We used to sit right in front or back of them every year. What a wonderful reunion they must be having.

Everyone should be proud of our Music Department, Art Department and also our FFA teams at Bradleyville School. Bradleyville has some outstanding students as well as the teachers that instruct them.

The Music Department under the instruction of Chris Sprague sent ten students to the State Music Festival and all ten received “I” ratings there.

On April 14^th the Bradleyville FFA received first place awards in District competition in Area Forestry, Area Soils and also received 5^th place in Meats. These FFA teams will be traveling to Columbia this week to compete in State competition. The FFA is under the instruction of Clint Gailey.

The Art Department has had great success lately in a couple of competitions. In the Taney County Soil and Water Conservation Department poster contest, Bradleyville art students won four out of four prizes. Third grader Jacqueline Clemans, fifth graders Catalena Sanders and Paitin Combs and sixth grader Emma Hampton won all four county-wide prizes. All four girls' posters will go on to State competition.

In Jr. High and High School art competition, students won a second-place trophy in the annual Mark Twain Conference Art Competition. This is the fifth year in a row Bradleyville has come in either first or second. Art classes are taught by Camille Dautrich.

Birthdays for the coming week include: April 24: Bradley Combs, Courtney Laughlin, Shane Whittaker; April 25: Gail Blair, Debbie Combs, Jesse Pollard; April 26: Austin Adams, Mitch Cummings; April 27: Sam Clemans, Jerilyn Day, T.J. Day; April 28: Andy Adams; April 29: Randy Adams.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: April 24: Sam and Nona Norwine; April 26: Raymond and Jeanette Johnson; April 28: Bobby and Elsie Combs, Tom and Kathy Tilley; April 29: Denzil and Lila Roberts.

News For the Week of April 14, 2014

We traveled to Minnesota last Thursday to witness and celebrate the marriage ceremony of our son, David Case to Amy Teerink on Saturday, april 12. It was a very nice trip and a wonderful wedding. It was a beautiful, unseasonably warm day for the wedding. We got to meet Amy's parents, her sister, and her brother and his family as well as many more family and friends. Everyone we met was very friendly, warm and gracious to us. All of David's sister's and families were able to attend, except for Julie's husband Scott who had just started a new job and had to work. My sister Ginger and her daughter Sue and her daughters, Deana and Kesha also traveled there to be with David and Amy on their special day. We are very thankful for all of David and Amy's friends and family that got to attend the wedding. Several friends from Missouri showed up along with friends from Colorado, Oklahoma, Indiana, Arkansas, and several made the long trip from Hawaii to be with them and share in their day.

Our trip home from the wedding was another story. It started raining about 15 minutes into our trip home and rained all the way home. Sometimes only a light misty rain, other times a hard to see out the windshield rain, but always enough to keep our squeaky windshield wipers going. It was aggravating at the least, in the unpopulated areas, and downright dangerous while going through somewhere like Kansas City. At one time, a car passed us going way over the speed limit and going way too fast for the driving conditions. He hit a pool of water, went into a skid and slid around in two complete circles right in front of us, crossed over three lanes of traffic and came to rest on the shoulder of the highway. Bob told me about him sliding in circles because I couldn't see. When he went around us the whole pool of water splashed onto our windshield, causing me to drive blindly for around four or five seconds, which seemed like much longer. I was afraid to apply the brakes too hard because of all the traffic behind me, but couldn't see what was in front of me either, so I just stayed in what I hoped was the same lane and braked as hard as I dared and prayed for the best. My prayers were answered, nobody else wrecked and the driver of that car wasn't hurt either. We are very grateful and thankful for God's hand of protection on us.

Congratulations to Ricky and Jody Thomas on the birth of their new daughter, Laycee Elaine Elizabeth Thomas. Laycee was born on Monday, April 14^th at 4:20 in the morning. She weighed 6 lbs. 4 oz. and was 21 inches long. She missed being born on her late grandfather Jeff Dalton's birthday by one day. His birthday was on April 13. I saw a picture of her on facebook and she is a very pretty baby and looks almost identical to her big sister Baylee's baby picture.

I saw several pictures of Spring Youth Turkey season turkeys that local kids have taken. I saw that Kambria Todd, Jake Robertson, Clayton Rains, Calvin Rains, Trinity Hunsaker, Karissa Chambers, Jacob Cantrell, Gavin Lux and Levi Lux, just to name a few, got good turkeys.

Birthdays for the coming week include: April 17: Aaron Blair, Heather Lorenzo, Zayden Swadley; April 19: Mackenzie Gilbert, Brandi Johnson, Savannah Norwine, Matthew Maggard, Waylon Stafford; April 20: Tanner Lux; April 21: Kelsie Horner; April 22: Braydon Maggard; April 23: Misty Harmon.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: April 19: Kyle and Kassidi Laughlin; April 23: Mac and Hester McBratney.

News For the Week of April 2, 2014

What a soggy, sunny morning! Seems like spring may be here at last. We got a lot of rain although I don't know how much since we don't have our rain gauge set up. The cows got in the yard and knocked it over and we have neglected to put it back. I looked out my kitchen window this morning and in the low place where water stands there were two wild mallard ducks swimming around. A rabbit went hopping by on one side of the “pond” and two squirrels were wrestling around on the other side. A crow was strutting around a few feet away in the yard like he owned the place. Several redbirds and bluejays and other birds were flying and hopping about. Now that we don't have any dogs running loose in the yard for the first time in many years the wildlife is taking over. I really enjoy watching all the critters, and I felt a little like I was in the middle of a Disney movie.

Margaret Dalton called to tell me about a gathering of friends. She said the class of '62 has been meeting every once in a while to be together, visit and eat. She said recently they all met at the Belgian Waffle House in Ozark and a former coach, Ray Gibson and his wife, Nancy came to be with them. Ray Gibson was the coach of the 1962 Bradleyville State Championship team. They celebrated Coach Gibson's 80^th birthday. Ray and Nancy still live in Blue Eye. Those that gathered included: Ray and Nancy Gibson, Jack and Evelyn Wallace, Matt and Carolyn Wakely, Sam and Judy Clemans, Karen Dunn and friend, Leonard, Brenda Roberts, Harold and Kathy Goodnight, Charlotte Roberts and Dude Davidson, Leon Boyd, Roy and Deb Combs, and Bob and Margaret Dalton.

The volleyball tournament held at Bradleyville School last Saturday to raise money for a mission trip was a great success. The tournament raised around $900 to go towards a mission trip that several in the area are planning.

Call me if you have news you would like included in the future.

Birthdays for the coming week include: April 10: Shirley Hall, Sharon Maggard, Beverly Smith; April 11: Ryan Flanigan; April 12: Kelsie Thomas; April 13: Sonny Guerin, Brandon Maggard, Cole Thomas; April 14: Levi Baker, Justin Chaney, Toby Davis, Hayden Day, Max Powell; April 15: Susan Mooney; April 16: Betty Swadley.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: April 14: Mike and Nancy Howie.

News for the week of March 31, 2014

What beautiful weather we are enjoying. I hope it continues and the forecast of rain this week stays rain and doesn't turn into snow or freezing weather. We are looking forward to being able to stop feeding hay. The cattle are on the move, looking for every blade of green grass they can find.

My soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Amy Teerink, is at her parents' home in southern Minnesota preparing for the wedding in a few weeks and the forecast there is some snow for this week. I know she is used to it since she grew up there but she has been living in Maui so it is quite a change for her. At least it won't last long and David and she will soon be back in Hawaii and enjoying the constant warm weather. I wouldn't mind a little bit of weather like that myself.

I have really been enjoying all the videos on facebook of the 24 hour cold water challenge. The idea is to immerse yourself into cold water or have it poured over you, sprayed on you, anything to get you cold and wet! It started out as a fundraiser at a church in Monroe, Georgia, to raise money to dig a well for clean water in Africa but now it has turned into donating to your charity of choice, then getting wet and challenging others to do the same. It looks like a fun time along with raising money for several good charities.

Congratulations to Jackie and Shirley Hall on the birth of their first granddaughter, Lydia Rose Bonner. Lydia's parents are Janessa and Scott Bonner. Lydia arrived very early in the morning of March 27 and weighed 7 pounds and 3 ounces. Lydia has three older brothers, Dryden, Caleb and Seth. I'm pretty sure Grandma and Grandpa are excited to have another grandbaby to spoil, and I know the rest of us can't wait for the stories Grandma Shirley will have to tell. She has already told us on facebook about three year old Seth and his reaction, “Sethy had his little mind blown with all the facts: she has no teeth, she can't talk, she can't walk, she can't play with him, she couldn't eat the green bean Caleb wanted to feed her, AND Sethy reported, 'She about to whine.' “

Sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Jean Robison who passed away March 25. Those that knew her well said Jean had such a sweet and fun personality and was one of those people that held the whole family together. Jean was the last of her big family of brothers and sisters.

The Bradleyville School Music Department had several students that received excellent ratings recently. Out of 9 events in the District music festival 7 received 1 ratings and 2 received 2 ratings. Ten students will be headed to State this year.

The baseball field at Bradleyville School is finished and Bradleyville will host the first game on the new field on Tuesday, April 1, at 4:30. I will be there watching the girls that afternoon. I am not sure if the boys have a game that same evening but you can find out by calling the school if you want to know.

Birthdays for the coming week include: April 3: Linda Combs, Tom Tilley; April 4: Josh Isaacs, Scott Lawson, Dawson McHaffie, Sawyer McHaffie; April 5: Tampa Rogers, Kelvin Whittaker; April 6: Carole Gott, Nick Norwine, Samantha Rogers; April 7: Kayla Day, Jackie Hall, Hailee Storts, April 9: Tyler Hankins.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: April 5: Buddy and Kathy Compton; April 6: Don and Robyn Whittaker.

News for the week of March 26, 2014

I got that big pile of leaves raked up and carted out of the front yard last week and just as I suspected, the grandson was so occupied doing other fun things in the yard in the pretty warm weather we were enjoying that he didn't even notice they were gone. Or if he did notice, he didn't care. Now I just need to get the rest of the yard raked and mow it before Easter. Sometimes I get it done and sometimes not. Easter is later this year so I might actually get it done in time.

We aren't party people but we sure partied over the weekend. Garrett turned three on Saturday and we had a big birthday party. All the family got to come and enjoyed watching Garrett open presents and blow out the candle on the cake. His mom and dad got him a new little battery powered toy 4-wheeler so I am expecting a lot of walking/running beside him while he is on it to keep him from leaving the country! On Sunday he visited his other grandparents, Cody and Carrie Jenkins, and also Ivan Lawson, and had another party with more cake and presents so I'm sure he is partied out!

The benefit for Wanda Whitaker last Saturday was well attended and raised a good amount of money for Wanda. Wanda lost her home to a fire several weeks ago and has been living with her sister in Ozark. Hopefully she will be able to move home soon. We share a back fence with Wanda, and she has always been a wonderful neighbor. We are so glad to live in an area that responds so generously when someone is in need.

Laramie Joe and Mesa Mae, beautiful little twin sisters and daughters of Wendy (Silvey) Cash, had their first birthday party on Sunday. I didn't get to attend but it looked like a wonderful party with lots of good food and fellowship. It looked like the twins were enjoying their presents and all the people who were celebrating their birthday with them.

Donna Sloan has good news, she will probably get to return to her home in Garrison this week after staying in the nursing home at Ava for the past few weeks for rehab. Donna fell a few weeks ago and fractured a couple of vertebrae in her back.

Baseball and softball games will be starting soon and we have a granddaughter playing this year so we will be making the trips to watch. I enjoy going to these games and hopefully the weather will be nice. I've been to a few when it was spitting snow and didn't enjoy those so much.

Birthdays for the coming week include: March 28: Kent Day, Eric Guerin, Sherry Guerin, Natalie Mooney, Sara Ridings; March 29: Wanda Cavner, Andrew Lovelace; March 30: Sherry Henning, Elijah Nelson, Hailee Norwine; March 31: Kayla Combs, Noah Blair; April 2: Dawson Deroo, Noel Shortt.

News for the week of March 19, 2014

We ended up with between three and four inches of very unwelcome snow at our house on Sunday. It's just a little bit redundant to say I am tired of winter. I keep remembering when I was a youngster, reading about the “Year Without a Summer”. I thought it was in the time of the pilgrims so I looked it up and it actually happened later, in 1816, due to a number of reasons, including low sunspot activity and a volcanic eruption that cooled the atmosphere. I have always remembered the subject of the story although I didn't have all the details right. It just seems like a horrific story to me, I guess because I don't enjoy cold weather at all. Of course, at that time it was truly horrific since people had to rely on what they grew in the warm weather to survive through the winter. I know in my head that we haven't had any of those conditions and spring and summer will eventually get here, but in the back of my mind I keep remembering this story. Sometimes I am just a pessimist, I guess.

Construction is still going on at New Mansion Church. It is really shaping up and going to provide many more seats in the sanctuary. I went over to clean last Saturday and really had to look to find anything to clean. Don and Robyn Whittaker had been there before me and cleaned and vacuumed. I appreciate the help cleaning during the dusty construction phase.

Congratulations to B.J. and Tara Russell on the birth of their daughter, Raelynn Michelle. Raelynn was born on March 12 and weighed 6 lbs. 4 oz. and was 20 inches long. I saw a picture of her on facebook and she is beautiful and has lots of dark hair.

I ran into Deb Hall while in Ava last Saturday and it was good to speak with her. We were going opposite directions in the parking lot so didn't have a chance to visit much but it was still good to see her.

Hope to see everyone Saturday at the benefit for Wanda Whittaker at the Bradleyville School. Wanda recently lost her home to fire and is living with her sister at this time. Eating will start at 2:00 and an auction at 3:00. There will be a table set up to receive any shower items such as clothes, household goods and food which won't be auctioned but go directly to Wanda. Any donations of crockpot food for the benefit or items to auction are greatly appreciated. The doors will be open at noon for convenience if you have anything to drop off. For more information you can call Cindy Marsh, Belinda Wyman, Gerald Yeary, Boone Hodges or Gary and Barbara Casey.

Birthdays for the coming week include: March 20: Rebecca Campbell, Emma Hampton, Linton Rentfro, Sue Swadley; March 21: Kelsey Adams, Ron Hunsaker, Riley Kisling; March 22: Garrett Lawson; March 23: Sammi Jo Gailey; March 24: June Boyd, Dustin Tilley; March 25: Buddy Compton Jr., Danny Flannery, Clessie Hurst; March 26: Leon Combs.

I missed two anniversaries last week. Happy belated anniversaries to Dustin and Lisa Tilley on March 17 and also to Cecil and Stella Beeler who celebrated 53 years on March 17.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: March 25: Tim and Ann Blair.

News for the week of March 12, 2014

March certainly came in like a lion, didn't it? I hope the old saying holds true and it goes out like a lamb and we can bid this winter goodbye. I am itching to get out and do some yard work but I haven't been able to get outside much yet. I always wait until this time of year to rake my leaves off the yard because we have so many oaks in our yard that don't want to let go of their leaves until the last minute, although many of them have fallen off to cover the yard completely. I raked a big pile last fall just so our grandson, Garrett could play in them and he really doesn't want me to rake them off although they are wet and matted down now. I know the grass is dead underneath the pile of leaves but grandsons come before grass, don't you think? I will get them off some time when he isn't paying attention and there is more exciting things to think about.

Please remember Donna Sloan in your prayers. She fell last Sunday and fractured a couple of vertebrae in her back. She will have to spend some time in rehab in a nursing home although I don't know which one yet.

Congratulations to the Bradleyville FFA on some of their recent competitions where the Bradleyville chapter placed 1^st in Soils team, 1^st place in Forestry teams and 3^rd in the Meats team.

New Mansion Church is in the process of expanding the sanctuary again and re-arranging some classrooms. It is a little dusty and messy right now but that goes along with any construction. The help on Saturday cleaning up was very much appreciated. The help from Corby Lux and his boys, Gavin and Levi and Don and Robyn Whittaker made my job a lot easier. The sanctuary will be gaining around 6o or so more seats. If you don't have a church home, you are welcome at New Mansion.

The Hunsaker Family spent last weekend in Oklahoma singing. The group is Ed and Leona Hunsaker, their daughter Kayla Combs, Melanie Whittaker. Ed and Leona's granddaughter, Jessica Hunsaker sang with them this past weekend also. I've heard all these people sing separately but haven't heard them sing in their group yet. I know they are probably awesome together and look forward to hearing them sometime.

Congratulations to my grandson, Hayden Crouch on winning the “photo of the week” on the Ozone Sports website. Last week was fun as everyone pulled together in a voting frenzy to vote for him to win. It was a back a forth situation with another photo and the phone texts and messages on facebook were flying as people were urging each other to vote, vote, vote! There were literally people from all over the world voting for him. I was one of the main campaigners so if I was a nuisance to anybody I apologize but I really wanted Hayden to win!

I got an e-mail from the Getaway Gift Shop letting me know they are open for the season so I'll have to swing by there and pick up some of the wonderful soap they sell and look over all the other items they have. They have some beautiful items for sale, lots of homemade items from different people, books, jewelry, greeting cards if you need one, just too much to mention really but it is lots of fun to look at everything they have, and a great place to pick up a gift that is unique.

Birthdays for the coming week include: March 13: Jayda Maggard, James Marsh; March 14: Virginia Clayton, Jacob Nelson, Scott Whittaker; March 15: Lacey Davis, Brent Koenig; March 16: Daniel Gillespie, Juanita Shortt; March 17: Brandon Harris, Koelder Ross; March 18: Nardena Brown, Amber Duff, Becky Krause; March 19: Bradley Flannery, Kerri Hampton.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: March 19: Brandon and Lori Burkhart, Sam and Judy Clemans.

News for the Week of March 5, 2014

Brrr. That's all I'm going to say about the weather this week.


Please keep little Madelyn Gross in your prayers. This beautiful little six month old baby girl had to have surgery at the end of February and is getting to come home this week. She has done so well and we pray she continues to improve. Daddy Dustin said she also got her first tooth while in the hospital recovering.


The basketball season has ended for both Bradleyville teams. The girls played a good game against the number one seeded team. They played well but the Chadwick girls have had an amazing season and came out the winner in district play. The boys played number one seeded Niangua for first place in districts and had a great game but Niangua pulled away and won the game. Both teams played great and had nothing to be ashamed of. Each and every one of them gave their best. Congratulations to both coaches for a winning season and for excellent coaching as well as being great role models for our kids. There is always next year, unless you are a senior. There is always a little sadness when it is your last high school game. We will miss our senior players next year for sure.


I know I speak for all the parents and grandparents when I say how much we appreciated all the pictures Elane Crum took and posted to facebook for everyone to enjoy. I know from trying to take pictures at ballgames it is hard to catch good shots but she captured a lot of good action shots. My pictures always came out too dark to see when I took pictures at ballgames and I finally gave up trying. I know there was probably a better setting for my camera but I never could even understand most of the directions that came with it.


Birthdays for the coming week include: March 6: Dillon Gross; March7: Lori Burkhart, Ray Hurst; March 9: C.J. Badovinatz, Tyler Braden, Rex Clemans, Cletis Shortt, Dennis Whittaker; March 10: Joe Scott; March 11: Georgi Clark; March 12: John Day, Ethan Douglas.

News for the Week of February 26, 2014

If you didn't have your outside possessions tied down last week there is a good chance they are in the next county by now. I couldn't believe how hard the wind blew for a few days. Several people had shingles blown off their roofs, including us. The ridge-cap on top of our house was standing up straight most of the length of the house. Bob got on top of the house and nailed them back down but I fear there are more leaks in our future when it rains. I heard that several people had trampolines blown out of their yards and one family had their heavy wooden swing set blown over. I spent two hours outside Saturday picking up pop cans, juice bottles and trash that had blown all over my yard from the pile beside Bob's truck. They needed picked up anyway, I just hadn't made the time to do it. Now it is all sacked up, ready to recycle or burn, depending on the content. On a bright note, I noticed the warm days had caused the daffodil leaves and surprise lily leaves to break through the ground. Now I will be on the lookout for the crocus blooms.


Both the girls' and boys' basketball teams won their games in the first games of district play last Saturday at Sparta. The girls played again Monday evening of this week against the Chadwick girls and the boys played on Tuesday evening against the Chadwick boys. These games will be played by the time the paper comes out so I don't know right now if we are still playing or not. If they did win, the girls will play on Thursday, February 27 at 6:00 PM and if the boys have won they will also play on Thursday evening at 7:30.


Our sympathy goes to the family of Henry Lawrence who passed away last week. Henry grew up in this area and graduated from Bradleyville School. He and his wife Lorene and two daughters, Patti and Jody lived here for many years. After their girls were grown Henry and Lorene moved to Springfield. Henry had been battling cancer for nine years. Everyone that knew Henry appreciated his kindness and sense of humor and he always had a smile for everyone.


Birthdays for the coming week include: February 27: Maycee Lumley, Scott Puckett; March 1: Bob Dalton, Brett Johnson, Heather Maggard; March 2: Dannon Hall, Morgan Lawrence; March 3: Janice Gray; March 4: Lee Bettis, Boone Hodges, Lindsey Thomas.



Anniversaries for the coming week include: February 28: Richard and Sue Baker; March 2: Bill and Paula Walker.

News For the Week of February 19, 2014

(skipped a week again)


Seems like I always have to mention the weather but I am so looking forward to the forecast warmer temperatures this week. I don't really trust the forecast, seems like it changes every hour, but I really hope they are right this time. At least all the snow is gone but the mud is just as deep. I don't like the mud but our almost three year old grandson Garrett gives it an enthusiastic “I LIKE the mud!” so he has a much more positive attitude towards it than I do.


We went to Homecoming at Bradleyville School last Friday night and had a great time. The Bradleyville Varsity teams both had very big wins so that was nice. The girls were dressed up in their Homecoming formals for the Homecoming crowning and dance held after the game and all looked so pretty. Charley Boyd was crowned Homecoming Queen with Malcolm Smith as her escort.


New Mansion Church had a Valentine potluck dinner with a few games thrown in last Sunday night and had a good crowd attending. It was good food and good fellowship all around.


This week's ballgames are at home and the last regular game will be with Chadwick at home on Thursday, February 20, starting at 6 pm. After that the teams will play in districts which will be held March 1-8 but I don't know the location. The PeeWees are having an amazing season too but I have never had a schedule of their games so don't know when they play next.


Birthdays for the coming week include: February 19: Rosa Williams; February 20: Trevor Blair, Brett Hall, Bailey Isaacs; February 21: Gail Adams, Jackie Cook, Casey Ridings, Riley Scott, Belinda Wyman; February 22: Joe Combs, Louise Jennings, Jarrid Stafford; February 23: Ronnie Combs, Melinda Rogers; February 24: Sherry Yeary; February 25: David Case, Jack Essary; February 26: Sharon Robertson.



Anniversaries for the coming week include: February 26: Tom and Carla Braden.

News For the Week of February 5, 2014

Wouldn't you love to be a kid again this winter? Snowmen, snowball fights, snow ice cream, sledding, and the best of all, no school! I remember how exciting it was when I was a child and woke up to several inches of snow on the ground. Even when I had small children it was fun to get outside with them and build snowmen or go sledding. Now it is just aggravating to me to think I might have to get out on the snowy porch and get firewood. And goodness, forget about keeping a floor clean until the stuff melts and the mud dries up. My how a perspective can change. I still like to watch it snow and I like to watch the grandkids playing in it but that is the extent of what I find pleasurable about snow.


I have heard my dad tell stories about when he was a young boy and he said he remembered when Beaver Creek froze so solid they could drive team of horses and wagon across without breaking. That would have been probably around eighty years ago. Then his mother used to tell of when she was a girl and said her dad always planted potatoes in February, which would have been around 120-125 years ago, so I guess the weather has always been very unpredictable around here.


Congratulations to our great-niece and her family on a new addition of a baby daughter. Alison and Brent Maggard and their daughter Leighton welcomed a new baby girl, Lux Olivia on January 29. She is beautiful, of course.


One day last week was very scary and dangerous for our neighbor across our back fence. Wanda Whitaker was at home when her house was partially destroyed by fire. I am so thankful that nobody was hurt.


I don't know if any ballgames will get to be played this week or not because of the weather so check with the school before you go. If there is no school that day there will probably be no ballgame that evening. The schedule shows a girls game with Gainesville at home on Thursday, February 6, starting at 6 pm. Both the boys and girls will play Everton at home on Friday, February 7, starting that night at 5:30pm. That will also be Bradleyville's Homecoming. On Monday, February 10 both the boys and girls are scheduled to play at Niangua starting at 5:30pm again. On the 13^th of February, both the girls and boys will play Norwood at home, starting at 5:00pm that night. Both teams will also play the next night, Friday, February 14 at home, starting at 5:30pm.. They will play Lutie that night. Only one more game after that on February 20 with Chadwick and that will wrap up the regular season.

Birthdays for the coming week include: February 6: Kenneth Braden, Sheila Burkhart; February 7: Richard Braden, Alan Dorsey; February 9: Cathy Dalton, Sam Norwine; February 10: Eddie Hunsaker; February 11: Russell Burkhart, Tom Shultz, Tom Todd; February 12: Bobby Combs, Sam Day, Ada Dennis, Betty Maggard.


No anniversaries this week.

News For the Week of January 29, 2014

Didn't get this sent in to the papers but here it is.


If anyone has been wondering or missing what winter felt like for the past few years, we are getting a good reminder this year. Actually, this winter is probably mild compared to some in the past. I remember one winter when we had about 6 inches of snow on the ground for a month. I have heard my dad tell of when he was a young man and Beaver Creek was frozen solid and they could drive a wagon and team of horses over it. That had to have been at least seventy to eighty years ago. So it could be worse or better, however you look at it. I am not a fan of cold weather and I am looking forward to hot temperatures.


We watched the finals in the Mark Twain Conference tournament which was held at Niangua last Saturday. They played good ballgames and both the girls and the boys came away with third place trophies.


Thieves are at work in the area again. Bob went to one of his cedar patches where he hadn't worked in a week or so and thieves had been at work, cutting apart his winch truck. They had cut the boom off with a cutting torch, cut out one of the rear ends and had started on the motor. They had built a fire to keep warm while they worked. They got what they got and Bob brought the rest of the carcass home and took it to sell for junk.

Birthdays for the coming week include: January 30: Kevin Compton, Seth Rogers; February 1: Johnathon Adams, Boyd Combs, Bailey Combs, Eli Harmon, Sandra Moore; February 3: Owen Smith; February 4: Amy Blair, Mariah Clemans, Tammy Hankins, Don Horner, Mike Roberts; February 5: Hester McBratney.



Anniversaries for the coming week include: February 4: Mickey and Darlene Roberts.

News For the Week of January 22, 2014

These sunny, bright days are very welcome around my house. I have been enjoying the sight of blue skies and warmer days. Even though we might have more bad weather, every day is closer to spring. Seed catalogs have arrived and I have been looking at all the varieties and would like one of each variety. The only thing that has never looked appealing to me is the purple potatoes. They just look rotten to me, just the thought of it and I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to eat them.

We saw Jeff Lawrence come in at a ballgame last week and he is sporting a walking cast on his foot. Seems he jumped off a trailer and landed wrong and broke his heel. Hoping it won't be long until he is good as new.


Bill Comer is having to spend several days in the hospital after suffering a heart attack and having two stents placed. He is doing good and hopes to come home soon.


It was a very scary time for Mike and Nancy Howie's daughter Hannah, and her boyfriend and their daughter, Aaliyah last weekend when the Mexican restaurant where she works was robbed at gunpoint. Aaliyah was there at the time but in the back room. So glad nobody was hurt.


According to my ball schedule, ballgames for this week are at Niangua all week, in the Mark Twain Conference Tournament. I don't know any times but you can call the school to find out. Next week both the boys and girls will play at School of the Ozarks on Monday, January 27 at 5 PM. The girls will play Greenwood at home on Tuesday, January 28 at 6PM and then the girls and boys both will travel to Hurley to play ball on Friday, January 31, starting at 5:30 that evening. It's a little early to talk about but Homecoming will be February 7 this year.


Birthdays for the coming week include: January 23: Ann Blair, Jason Haden, Jackie Hodges, Greg Robertson, Kelli Stafford; January 24: Jonathan Blakey, LaDonna Johnson, Trinity Hunsaker, Maya Saffle; January 25: Emmett Dalton, Sherry Day, Linda Wiggins; January 26: Kim Gideon, Zach Hunsaker; Shirley Gott Stoecker, Donna Sloan; January 27: Derrick Puckett; January 28: Buddy Compton, Carol Hunsaker, Trent McHaffie, Jamie Miller; January 29: Job Krause, Jake Robertson.



Anniversaries for the coming week include: January 23: Rod and LaDonna Johnson.

News For the Week of January 15, 2014

Can you believe it is already the middle of January? How time flies, whether you are having fun or not. Seems like flu and viruses are running rampant as usual this time of year. We have missed any sickness so far and I am thankful for that. I'm so glad the snow is gone but the mud is knee deep. I won't complain though, Garrett loved the snow and I am sure there are lots more that love it!


As for our family, we are having tons of fun. We had a houseful of grandchildren over the weekend and were we ever busy! Julie and her kids stayed with us while husband Scott fulfilled a duty weekend with the Air National Guard at Whiteman Air Force Base.
Garrett is here for a little while almost every day but this weekend he decided to take it up a notch and explored every nook and cranny in Granny's house. He found old, incomplete board games I had forgotten all about. Granny has decided to do a little spring cleaning a little earlier than usual and get rid of stuff like Monopoly houses and game pieces that don't need to be dragged out with eight month old babies. It is long overdue but the packrat in me was convinced somebody might need the extra game pieces sometime.


On Saturday we all went to Seymour to watch the boys play in the Seymour Tournament. Our boys played Bakersfield for the Consolation game and ended up losing but played a hard game. The girls were playing in the Sparta Tournament Saturday and were more successful, bringing home the Consolation trophy. Alexis Landis and Ellie Combs also received “All Tournament” recognition. Congratulations girls and coach, Autumn Thomas, good job.


The girls will be playing a home game with Forsyth on Thursday, January 16 and the boys will play a home game with Mansfield on Friday, January 17. Both games are scheduled to start at 6PM. If you want to watch some good, clean exciting basketball, come out to watch our kids and support them. They play hard and are doing very well this year.


Sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Earlean Evans who passed away last Friday, January 10. Earlean lived her whole life in the McClurg and Crossroads communities, living and working on the farm with her husband Paul and raising their four daughters. Earlean always had a smile for everyone and I know she will be sorely missed by her family and friends.


Congratulations to Jordan Gilbert and Shannon Lair on the birth of their son, Kayden Paul Gilbert. Kayden was born on January 10 and weighed 4 lbs even and was 17.5 inches long. Kayden was born a little early and has to spend some time in NICU but baby and mother are doing well. He is a beautiful little boy.






Birthdays for the coming week include: January 17: Kim Compton, Edie Puckett, Candy Schreier, Robyn Tweedy; January 18: Sue Bettis, Carla Braden, Marlana Bryne, Brad Hodges, Brittany Lumley; January 19: Jess Cook, Tucker Lux, Emma Marsh, Donetta Terry; January 20: Riley Combs, Gene Pool; January 21: Ethel Metcalf; January 22: Megan Howie.



Anniversaries for the coming week include: January 16: Alva and Edna Mae Johnson; Brenton and April Whittaker; January 21: Lee and Sue Bettis. 

News For the Week of January 8, 2014

A new year with lots of new resolutions has begun, I suppose. It is a good time of year to think about what you might improve in the future but I don't make resolutions because from my past experience I know I won't follow through with most of them. I am wishy-washy I guess.

It was a -6 degrees at our house this morning. Bob said it was cold enough that the peepers quit peeping. Yes, just a joke, they hadn't been peeping anyway. I noticed on facebook that was pretty average around this area this morning. The school kids are enjoying an extended Christmas break for no telling how much longer with a forecast of more snow later in the week.


We are warmer than some since we are pretty high up with no creek or branch nearby. Bill Hurst used to tell Bob that many times they had frost every month of the year except for two. Bill and Clessie's farm sits right where two hollers meet. Bob thought a lot of Bill and sure has missed coon hunting and talking with him.


Saturday we spent a lot of the day at the make-up games for the Bradleyville Invitational Tournament. The girls won first place in the tournament with St. Joe, AR winning second and Lutie taking third place. On the boy's side Bradleyville won second, St. Joe, AR took first place and Riverview came away with third place. We enjoyed getting to see the teams play. There was exceptional sportsmanship showed at these games.


Not much news to report. Call or e-mail me if you have anything.


Birthdays for the coming week include: January 8: Leona Hunsaker, Barbara Casey; January 9: Darla Day, J.D. Day, Venessa Mills, Gale Osburn; January 11: Greg Blair, Bill Dalton, Peggy Krause; January 12: Marty Boyd, Denise Flanigan, Everett Sartin; January 14: Kaitlyn Hunsaker, Corey Ridings; January 15: Linda Black, Jim Crouch, Manny Nelson.

News For the Week of December 18, 2013

Are we going to have a white Christmas or not? I vote for not, but I am sure that won't matter much. First the weather man said we will have another big storm by Christmas and then he says we won't. Guess we'll just have to wait and see. I haven't done any Christmas shopping yet and I am dreading it like the plague. I really don't like the crowds and have never shopped on Black Friday either. I am not a good shopper anyway and that is why I always wait so late. Of course if I would get it done earlier I wouldn't have to put up with the crowds but it seems that is a lesson I never learn.


My grand kids were very happy to have some snow days so they didn't have to go to school, but granddaughter Danielle had to drive in some bad weather to get to her college classes at Hollister. She is happy to finally be done with classes for this semester.


It is the season for Christmas programs and quite a few were held in the area. Some of those I heard about was Hercules who had their Christmas program Sunday morning. I saw a few pictures of children all dressed up for Christmas that were very cute.


New Mansion Church had a Christmas program Sunday afternoon. It was scheduled for the Sunday before last but the snowfall changed plans. It was well attended in spite of some snow left in the parking lot. The children and teens did a good job with their skits and songs they sang. There were several cute moments with all those children. It reminded me of a song I've heard on the radio that Squire Parsons sings called “Christmas in a Little Country Church”.


Bradleyville General Baptist also had their Christmas program Sunday night. We didn't get to attend but heard it was very good also. They always have a good program.


Mike Blair spent a couple of days in the hospital recently and it was determined that he could have had a mini-stroke. He is home and feeling fine now for which we are very thankful.


Thursday, December 19, both the girls and boys will play a basketball game at Sparta, starting at 5 PM. School will be out for Christmas break on Friday, December 20.


If you would like me to put anything in the paper, please let me know. My phone number is 796-2651 and you can also e-mail me if you want. My address is karencase.55@gmail.com. E-mail would be better if you use it. Sometimes I can't understand a phone call as well as the written word that I can refer to again. A funny cartoon I saw describes me. It said, “My brain is like the Bermuda Triangle, information goes in, never to be found again.


Birthdays for the coming week include: December 18: Donna Newman, Katie Reece, Kenyon Whittaker; December 19: Alva Johnson, Lorri Johnson, Kenneth Sims, Maxine Mason; December 20: Jessi Laughlin, Melissa McCleary, Jarell Yeary; December 23: Sandy Wilson; December 24: Dakota Isaacs, Mike Karges, Pauline Lee, Kimberly Pollard; December 25: Rita Box, Larry Chance, Clara Combs, Jessica Koenig, Jewel Maggard, Clarence Rogers.


Anniversaries for the coming week include: December 19: Bob & Sue Birdsong, Kenton & Linda Wiggins; December 23: Mike &Vicky Blair; December 24: Bob & Karen Case.

News For the Week of November 6, 2013

Hope you got to view the gorgeous colored leaves on the timber this year. If you blinked you may have missed it. Seems like all the leaves turned colors overnight and were just bright a day or two before they faded out. Seemed to me that they were a week or so later than usual also. Bob has a birthday in the middle of the month and I always notice the leaves are usually at their best right on his birthday. This year there was a lot of green still on the trees. Even on the church hayride on the 27^th a lot of the trees hadn't colored up.

Just a reminder that the Bradleyville FFA will be having a chili supper and auction this Friday, November 8, starting around 6pm. Eating will start at 6:00 and a live auction and a silent auction will begin around 7:00.

Youth season was the past weekend and I saw many pictures of deer taken. I can't remember them all but I did see Lexy Matthews killed a nice buck and so did Sonny Guerin.  Riley Isaacs got a button buck that will be nice eating and Taylor McHaffie got a spike buck that will also taste good, as did Caleb Blair. I know I'm leaving several out but if I don't see them on facebook I can't remember them all. Congratulations to all who got their deer.

So many have passed away the past few days. Such a sad time for families and friends who will miss them but comfort in knowing where they are and all their sickness, disabilities and heartaches are gone.

Heartfelt sympathy goes to the family and friends of Betty Day who passed away Monday morning. She was a longtime member of  New Mansion Church and one of the sweetest ladies I ever knew. She loved and lived for her family and I feel safe in saying that everyone that knew Betty will miss her a lot.

Also our condolences to the family of Alice Wyman who passed away Sunday. Alice was another sweet sweet lady who loved her family and friends and was loved by all who knew her.

Sympathy goes out also to the family of Glen Schmidt who passed away last weekend. Glen and his wife, Imogene lived a few years in this area close to her parents, Elmer and Ethel Presley, but has lived in Springfield for the past several years. He was always a good friend and Bob remembers lots of fun times he had with Glen.

Also remember the family of Lena Pierce who passed away over the weekend. She has lived in Ava for several years and with her daughter Vicky for the past several years, but many people in the Bradleyville area knew Lena well or had her as a school teacher. My sister and brother both had Lena as their first school teacher at Possum Trot School, up Caney.

Birthdays for the coming week include: November 7: Levi Collins, Tommy Roberts; November 8: Paula O'Neal; November 10: Dustin Harris; November 11: Derek Hartzell; November 12: Barbara Fuller, Doris Manes, Ryan Melton, Chauncey Paul, Vicky Rogers.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: November 8: Joe and Nadine Horner.

News For the Week of October 30, 2013

I really am enjoying the beautiful weather we have been having. Beautiful sunny days and chilly nights. I have never been a fan of fall or winter but I can take it better when the weather is sunny. I don't like when we have cloud cover for days on end. I would rather it rain or snow or do something if it has to be cloudy. It just seems so gloomy to me.

New Mansion Church had a large crowd Saturday for the Fall Festival and the Riders on a Mission stunt group. This group rode motorbikes and 4 wheelers and did lots of exciting stunts on them. They also had good testimonies that they gave. On Sunday New Mansion had their annual hayride to the Caney Picnic Area. They left shortly after church on three trailers but had a flat on one trailer before they got very far. Everyone on that trailer got on one of the other trailers and they continued on. They still had a great time, roasting hotdogs, eating chili and a variety of food, exploring the cave and at 4:00 Corby Lux brought a message to everyone assembled. They got home around six in the evening cold but happy.

Congratulations to the Bradleyville Jr. High Girl's basketball team, who won first place in the tournament at Lutie School. That is a nice ending to their basketball season for this year.

Glenda Day, our friend and former writer of  “Around Bradleyville”, fell and broke her hip last week and had to have surgery on it. Keep Glenda in your prayers as she recovers.

Birthdays for the coming week include: October 30: Margaret Dalton, Tater Essary, Dee Hodges, Walter Rogers, Sandy Ross; October 31: Kathryn Braden, Jack Horner; November 1: Susan Sivils, Jeff Shockey, Charley Tinker; November 2: Zach Johnson, Rebecca Pride; November 3: Nicole Combs, Vernon Fuller; November 4: Gina Norwine, Stacey Phillips, Dusty Rogers; November 5: Jerry Brown, Colton Burton, Julie Lawson, Talitha Sims, Kurt Tweedy; November 6: Autumn Thomas.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: November 4: Greg and Amy Blair, Danny and Jennifer Flannery; November 5: Randy and Belinda Wyman.

News For the Week of October 16, 2013

Not a lot of news this week, sometimes that is good, sometimes not. I finally broke down and had a fire in the fireplace Monday morning. I'll say I was worried it was too cold for the twins and Garrett who came to visit that morning, but my hands and feet were cold too so I threw some dry cedar chunks in and had a nice little fire that warmed us up nicely.

The Bradleyville Jr. High boys came home from the Thornfield tournament last week with a second place trophy. Taneyville boys won first place in the tournament.

We enjoyed the group, Crosstimber who played at Caney Church Sunday night. They played and sang for just over an hour and did an amazing job. We had a nice visit with everyone there and really enjoyed getting to visit with Hi and Doris Lambeth. Bob and Hi used to work together many years ago at Darrell Todd's sawmill and Bob is always telling some story of the fun they all had working together.

A reminder that the group, Riders on a Mission will be at New Mansion Church on October 26 for the Fall Festival. The festival starts around 2 and ends with a potluck supper that evening. Everyone welcome.

The Bradleyville Fire Department is hosting an Open House on Saturday, October 19 starting at 12:00 noon. There will be a pulled pork lunch available.

Birthdays for the coming week include: October 17: Kathy Brumfield, Shelby Byrne, Cassie Matthews; October 18: Kelli Clemans, Linda Derr, Jake Silvey, Tony Todd; October 20: Dennis Case, Darrin Hurst, Emily Ridings; October 21: Kathy Dorsey; October 22: Myka Hurst, Tom Schultz; October 23: Vicky Blair, Justin Bonner, Randi Newman.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: October 20: Kirk and Tammy Pollard.

News For the Week of October 9, 2013

Bob and I drove to Hartville a week ago Saturday to The Calvarymen's Homecoming. They are an excellent gospel group and we have gone every year for the past several years. We also enjoyed the other groups that evening, The Kellys Gospel Band and The Mark Trammell Quartet. While we were in Hartville we drove around a little, past the house where Bob's great-aunt, Flora Chapman used to live. We have been to Hartville almost every year the past several years and through Hartville several times since Aunt Flora passed away in 1985 but had never driven past her house in all those years.  Everything looked so much different than we remembered it but Bob recognized the place by seeing the huge walnut trees in the yard that he remembered. Leave it to a logger to recognize a location by the trees.

I managed to get a few of my outdoor flowers potted in pots to move inside. I like to save starts of some of my favorites so I can put them back outside the next year. I always do this with some of my impatiens and begonias. This year my impatiens have been eaten down to the soil by our cows that like to jump the fence. It happens almost every fall if I don't watch them closely. I would like to be like Granny Clampett and have a shotgun loaded with rock salt to shoot the offenders with. At least so far they have left the tomatoes alone.

The Bradleyville Church of the Nazarene had a hay ride last Sunday and the many pictures I saw along with some of the comments showed they had a very good time. It was a little bit chilly which is to be expected for October, although I have been on many hayrides in October when we could have used a fan.

New Mansion Church will be holding a Fall Festival on October 26, starting around 1pm. Riders on a Mission will be there to entertain with motorcycle and 4 wheeler riding and stunts, starting around 5pm. There will be a potluck supper around 6pm.Everybody is welcome and it is free to attend.

Birthdays for the coming week include: October 10: Judy Clemans, Carla Combs, Karen Cantrell; October 11: Louise Stevens, Don Johnson, Thurman Whittaker; October 12: Keith Cook, Blake Melton, Brenton Whittaker; October 13: Shea Dobbins; October 14: Lucas Clemans; October 15: Bob Case, Lisa Potter, Joe Rogers; October 16: Brynne Mitchell.

Anniversaries for the coming week include: October 12: Joe and Kim Norwine; October 14: Jerry and Nardena Brown, Thurman and Kay Whittaker.