Houston Proud

HOUSTON
PROUD
Spotlighting our great community
May Written and produced by the

2017 HOUSTON HERALD
2 www.houstonherald.com HOUSTON HERALD Thursday, May 4, 2017
Thursday, May 4, 2017 HOUSTON HERALD www.houstonherald.com 3
Guide to the inside

COMMUNITY 4-19 AGRICULTURE 26-27
About our town page 4 Grow it, eat it page 26
Power to the people page 6 Fair board page 27
City council page 7
In the heat of battle page 10 HEALTHCARE 28-31
Fire dept. rosters page 11 Promoting life page 28
Elected officials page 12 New health services page 29
Top employers page 13 County hospital page 30
4-H page 13
Chamber serves town page 16 FAITH 32-35
Houston police roster page 18 Youth center page 32
Faithful obedience page 34
CULTURE 20-23 Gospel singers page 35
Coming to life page 20
Lone Star Annex page 21 SPORTS 36-38
History online page 22 Taking aim page 36
Hunting is big deal page 37
EDUCATION 24-25 Ozark Heritage page 37
Education foundation page 24
School administrators page 24
About this section

We love our community. In fact, we are proud of
Houston. Highlighted in this second-ever 40-page,
full-color production are many of the people, places
and businesses that make our town so special. Of
course, there wasn’t space to include all of Houston’s
great things. But these are many that make us HOUS-
TON PROUD.
–– The staff of the Houston Herald
COMMUNITY
ALL
ABOUT
OUR
TOWN
HISTORY
nThe city of Houston, Mo. was founded in 1857 and named
after American politician and soldier Sam Houston, who is
best known for his role in bringing Texas into the United
States.
SIGNIFICANCE
nHouston is the county seat of Texas County, Missouri’s
largest county at 1,179 square miles.
LOCATION
nHouston is located in the south-central portion of Missouri,
and sits at an elevation of 1,165 feet on the Ozarks plateau.
POPULATION
nHouston: 2,084 (2012 census estimate) with 935
households and 531 families in the city limits.
nTexas County: 26,008 (2013 census estimate)
CLIMATE
nTemperature: Houston’s annual mean temperature is
55.3. The warmest month is July and August, which tie
at 88 degrees. The coldest month is January, where the
average month is 21 degrees.
PRECIPITATION
nAverage annual precipitation is 44.97 inches. The rainiest Veterans salute and members of the Houston High School choir sing the national anthem as a giant American
month is May, averaging 4.96 inches. flag is raised last fall at the Houston Rural Fire Department station in downtown Houston. The ceremony in-
cluded area officials, law enforcement and members of the community. The flag measures 15 feet by 10 feet.
TOURISM Photo by Jeff McNiell, Houston Herald
nLodging: Two motels (Lazy L and Southern Inn) and a
bed and breakfast (Pond Trail Farm Guesthouse). school and high school. RECREATION
nExhibition: The community building at the Houston Area Technical: Texas County Technical College offers technical nThe City of Houston offers a variety of recreation venues.
Chamber of Commerce fairgrounds is available for rent on classes locally. There are three parks: Emmett Kelly Park (east), West
North U.S. 63. Call the chamber at 417-967-2220 for more nColleges: Drury University offers classes at Cabool, Side Park (center city) and Rutherford Park (west). Tennis
information. The community room at the Houston Rural Fire Houston and Licking. Southwest Missouri University offers courts and the municipal swimming pool are at West Side
Station can be reserved by calling 417-217-1747. The new instruction from its West Plains campus. Southwest Baptist Park. Two pavilions are at Emmett Kelly Park and one at
annex at the University of Missouri Extension in downtown University operates a campus at Mountain View. West Side Park. Reservations are available by calling 417-
Houston is available to rent by calling 417-967-4545. Read more about education on pages 24-25 967-3348.
nInformation on events and points of interest is available nThe Houston Parks and Recreation Department
at the Houston Visitors Center, which is manned by local LIBRARY organizes a variety of sporting events. Baseball, basketball,
volunteers. The telephone number is 417-967-2220. It is nThe main branch of the Texas County Library system softball and soccer opportunities are available for children.
situated at North U.S. 63 and Highway F (Walnut Street) is in Houston at 117 W. Walnut St. Its telephone number A Mighty Mites program also is sponsored locally.
in Houston. is 417-967-2258. In addition to printed material, it offers nOver the years, Houston has developed a trails program.
downloadable audiobooks and ebooks. Free wifi access The Village Trail circles the community. A trailhead is
EDUCATION for computers and most devices is available. Hours are: situated on Brushy Creek. Other sections include Emmett
nElementary and secondary education: As of the opening Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday Kelly Park, along Spruce Street, Airport Road and
of the 2016-’17 school year, Houston School District had and Thursday, 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. Westwood Drive.
966 students. There is an elementary school, middle to 1 p.m. The web address is texascountylibrary.lib.mo.us/ Read more about recreation on pages 36-38
COMMUNITY
Roper Hamilton, center, and the rest of the kindergarteners at the

Houston R-1 School District perform their annual Kindergarten
Circus in April.
Photo by Jeff McNiell, Houston Herald
TRANSPORTATION
nHighways: U.S. 63 runs north and south through the county. Highway
17 runs from northwest Texas County to the southeast corner of the
county.
nAir travel: The Houston Memorial Airport is situated on the western
side of Houston. Ten new hangars were constructed in 2014 as part of
a $759,782 project that included a concrete apron, a parking lot, pilots
lounge and shower. The Houston City Council announced plans in
January to construct new hangars. The runway is 3,500 feet long.
nPublic transportation: The City of Houston operates a transportation
system. To request it, call 417-967-2013. Texas County Memorial
Hospital has two Medivans for non-emergency transportation for area
residents. The service is $5 per passenger for each one-way ride within
the city limits of Houston. Outside the city limits of Houston, the charge is
$1 per mile, one-way. Call 417-967-3311.
UTILITIES
nNatural gas: Not available.
nPropane businesses in Houston city limits: Rees Propane (417-967-
4143) and Tuttle Utility Gas Inc. (www.tugasinc.com; 417-967-3327).
nElectricity: City of Houston (www.houstonmo.org; 417-967-3348) and
Intercounty Electric Cooperative (www.ieca.coop; 573-674-2211).
nCable TV: CableAmerica (www.cableamerica.com; 417-967-5571).
nPhone/Internet providers: CenturyLink (www.centurylink.com; 866-
904-1817) and CableAmerica (www.cableamerica.com; 417-967-5571).
The Texas County Rural Area Information Network (TRAIN) provides
dialup and wireless Internet service (www.gotrain.org; 417-967-2900).
nWater: Service is provided by the City of Houston (www.houstonmo.
org; 417-967-3348). Areas east and north of Houston are served by
Public Water Supply District No. 2. Areas south and west of Houston are
included in Public Water Supply District No. 3.
nSewer: Houston is served by a new wastewater treatment plant, which
was completed in 2011. At the same time, other improvements were
completed throughout the community.
nTrash: Items are picked up on curbside on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Trash service: Commercial and residential trash pick up is under contract
to Waste Management. Here is the schedule: Monday — All of the area
south of Hawthorn, west of U.S. 63 and south and west to the city limits.
Tuesday — All of the area east of U.S. 63, south of Highway B and
east and south to the city limits. Wednesday — All of the area north of
Hawthorn, west of Bryan Street, south of Spruce Street and west to the
city limits. Thursday — All of the area east of Bryan Street and west of
U.S. 63, south to Hawthorn and north to Forrest Street.
nRecycling: Pick up is completed by the City of Houston. Items are
picked up Mondays and Tuesdays. Call 417-967-2393.
WEBSITES WITH INFORMATION

nThe Houston Herald, a multi-time award-winning newspaper, updates
its website with breaking news, sports scores, obituaries and more
each day at www.houstonherald.com. The Herald can be followed on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the handle “houstonherald.”
nThe City of Houston’s website at www.houstonmo.org, has city maps
and information about city ordinances.
nThe Houston Area Chamber of Commerce has been in business since
1906. Its website is www.houstonmochamber.com.
COMMUNITY
Power
to the PEOPLE
Houston-based solar energy firm one of fastest-growing in nation.
By DOUG DAVISON voice. Last year, I spent many, many hours talking
Houston Herald in front of Senate and House committees and tes-
ddavison@houstonherald.com tifying about who I am, what I represent with my
L
company and with MOSEIA, and describing what
ast summer, Houston- we would like to see done.”
Arthur said he was surprisingly welcome in Jeff
based Missouri Sun So- City.
“It was shocking how well accepted I was,” he
lar received multiple ac- said. “Before I had a successful company and was
colades in the “Top 5,000” issue MOSEIA president, a lot of those people thought I
was just another solar guy. But once they started
of Inc. Magazine. hearing my story and talking to me, some of the
The company – which will celebrate its fifth an- most, what you would consider anti-solar Repub-
niversary in May – claimed the top spot in Mis- licans actually cared what I had to say and would
souri for fastest-growing energy companies, and ask great questions.
was ranked second among companies of all types. “They would even call me later to talk some
The firm also was ranked ninth for fastest energy more. That blew my mind.”
company growth in the U.S., and is No. 156 on the When Arthur launched Sun Solar, he did it on a
top 5,000 fastest-growing companies in all sectors wing and a prayer.
nationwide. “I took a leap of faith with my brother, working
Missouri Sun Solar has previously been named as my own sales rep, installer and financial de-
the No. 1 residential installer in Missouri by Solar partment,” he said.
Power World magazine. Things have come a long way in a short time for
Founded by Houston resident Caleb Arthur in Sun Solar. Arthur said the company’s production
2012, Sun Solar experienced particularly explosive Houston resident Caleb Arthur founded Missouri Sun
that led to the high ranking in 2015 was tripled in
growth in 2015-2016, increasing its workforce from Solar in 2012.
Submitted photo 2016.
27 employees to 135. “We went from something like $8 or 9 million
“I am proud of every one of my employees, and (MOSEIA). in revenues in 2015 to a little under $28 million in
consider them family,” Arthur (the company’s The MOSEIA (mo-see-uh) website states its mis- 2016,” he said. “And our goal for 2017 is $40 mil-
CEO) said. “They have a passion for their work, sion is “to strengthen and expand the solar indus- lion.”
and for our mission, that is vital in such an impor- try and establish a sustainable energy future for Arthur said his motivation goes beyond success
tant industry. More and more people are realizing all Missourians.” Arthur has been a board mem- in business.
the benefits of converting to clean, renewable en- ber for the organization since it formed in 2009, “The reason I’m doing all this is because I know
ergy, and our customers have seen a and as its president, he put in plenty how much clean, renewable energy benefits ev-
collective savings of $80 to $100 mil- of time and effort helping determine eryone,” he said. “It’s better for our environment,
lion.” and guide its policies, lobbying for it’s better for the planet and it’s better for the bud-
Missouri Sun Solar’s headquarters solar in Jefferson City, working with get. But more than that, everyone should have the
are on South U.S. 63 in Houston, and legislators and utility company exec- right to choose what’s best for them.
the firm has offices in Springfield, utives, and generally being a liaison “I would love to see a time in which every per-
Lee’s Summit, Columbia, St. Louis, for solar energy interests in Missouri. son can realize the benefits of clean energy, not to
and recently branched out to Colum- “About 2,500 employees at about 30 mention the environmental benefits that would re-
bia, S.C. solar companies look at MOSEIA as sult if we stop plundering our natural resources.”
Arthur, 30, spent 2016 as president of the the one voice,” Arthur said, “and the president For more information, log onto www.ussunso-
Missouri Solar Energy Industries Association kind of has the responsibility of speaking that one lar.com or call 855-464-6786.
COMMUNITY
Infrastructure
HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL CITY CLERK
Tonya Foster
MAYOR nOffice: Houston City Hall
Don Tottingham nEmail: citytonya@yahoo.com
improvements nOffice: Houston City Hall

nTerm: expires April 1, 2019
nEmail: mayor@houstonmo.org
nPhone: 417-967-3348
The city clerk serves as the secretary to the city council
and is responsible for keeping records of official city busi-
receive priority
nPhone: 417-967-3348 (daytime) ness, including minutes, resolutions and ordinances.
WARD I ALDERMAN OTHER CITY HALL EMPLOYEES

Joe Honeycutt nAccount and city court clerk: Angie Long
nTerm: expires April 1, 2018 nUtility Clerk: Heather Sponsler
Infrastructure improvements in Houston con- nAddress: 118 Wyn Drive nDevelopment Director: Elaine Campbell
tinue to gain importance as the Houston City nPhone: 417-967-4338 (home) nParks and Recreation Director: Drew Jordan
Council determines priorities in its budget. nEmail: joehoney@centurytel.net
In late April, five lanes of traffic opened on Sam CITY ATTORNEY
Houston Blvd. to complete a long project with the WARD I ALDERMAN Brad Eidson
Donnie Wilson nAddress: 112 E. Main
Missouri Department of Transportation. Plans nTerm: expires April 1, 2019 nPhone: 417-967-4747
for the rest of the year call for the addition of side- nAddress: 627 Oak Hill Drive nEmail: brad149@centurytel.net
walks from near Corner Express on the west side nPhone: 417-274-1497 The city attorney provides legal advice and support for
of South Sam Houston Blvd. south to Walmart Su- nEmail: hotroddonnie20@gmail.com the city council, city staff and boards. He also prepares
percenter. A majority of the work –– 80 percent –– all ordinances, resolutions, contracts and leases for the
WARD II ALDERMAN city.
comes from a grant secured by the city. Jeremy St. John
At the Houston Memorial Airport, additional nTerm: expires April 1, 2019 POLICE CHIEF
hangars will be constructed. Under a MoDOT pro- nAddress: 826 Ozark Street Tim Ceplina
gram administered for the FAA, the city is work- nPhone: 417-217-2161 nOffice: Houston City Hall
ing with a Jefferson City firm to complete the proj- nEmail: st.johnjeremy@yahoo.com nEmail: hpolice@houstonmo.org
nPhone: 417-967-3348
ect. The new space will join 10 occupied hangars WARD II ALDERWOMAN When city hall is closed, call 417-967-5558 for service if
constructed earlier near Airport Road and Spruce Sheila Walker non-emergency. The police department provides crime
Street. Under the program, the grant will pay 90 nTerm: expires April 1, 2018 prevention and protective services.
percent of the cost. nAddress: Airport Road
Also on the city’s drawing board for 2017 and be- nPhone: 417-260-5132 (home) OTHER MAYOR APPOINTMENTS
nEmail: sheilawalkers@hotmail.com nMunicipal Judge: Mike Anderson
yond: nFire Chief: Joey Moore
nContinuing improvements at Rutherford Park WARD III ALDERWOMAN nCity Treasurer: Bruce Wilson
on the western rim of the Houston Memorial Air- Kimberly Bittle nEmergency Management Director: Jeremy St. John.
port. The city’s soccer program is staged there. Up nTerm expires: April 1, 2019
next are the addition of new workout equipment nAddress: 1000 Cedar Ridge Street ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT
nPhone: 417-260-4445 Mike Williams, supervisor; Ron Troutman, Scott McKin-
and equipment paid by Healthy Schools Healthy nEmail: kim89mustang@centurylink.net ney, Jarad Crews and Steve Floyd.
Communities, which is administered by the Texas
County Health Department in a partnership with WARD III ALDERWOMAN GROUNDS AND STREETS
the Missouri Health Foundation. Viki Narancich Joe Kirkman, supervisor; Dale Adey and Travis Camp-
nExtension of utilities accommodating new nTerm: expires April 1, 2018 bell. The city also hires seasonal help.
nAddress: 103 Ashley Lane
businesses south of Miller’s Grill off Millstone nPhone: 417-300-7745 INCARCERATED WORK CREW
Road. Projects there include a recently completed nEmail: vikinarancich@gmail.com Jimmy Jones , supervisor
restaurant and a new sporting goods store.
nPaving of streets totaling about $150,000. City COUNCIL COMMITTEES PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
residents pay a quarter-cent sales tax earmarked nPublic grounds and airport: Joe Honeycutt (chair), Jer- John McCloud, supervisor
emy St. John and Viki Narancich.
for street and sidewalk improvements. nUtilities and buildings: Viki Narancich (chair), Joe Hon- SEWER/WATER
eycutt and Jeremy St. John. Jerry Jackson, supervisor; Joe Mainer, Harley Coulter,
nEconomic development: Kimberly Bittle (chair), Joe Bobby Richards and Keith Hamilton.
Honeycutt and Sheila Walker.
nFinance: Sheila Walker (chair), Joe Honeycutt and Kim- BOARDS
berly Bittle. Many Houston residents serve much time toward the bet-
nPersonnel: Don Wilson (chair), Sheila Walker and Kim- terment of the community.
berly Bittle. nCity of Houston Industrial Development Board: Carl
nPolice and Fire: Jeremy St. John (chair), Donnie Wilson Honeycutt (chairman), Justin Shelby, Brad Rees, Eric
and Viki Narancich. Wells and Tom Dunn.
nHouston Board of Adjustment: Roger Holder (chair-
CITY DEPARTMENTS AND LEADERSHIP man), Bonnie McElroy, Dennis Maxwell, John Stenger
and Gene Gentry.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR nHouston Planning and Zoning Commission: Angie Get-
Larry Sutton tys, Willy Johnson, Rita Ruckert, Steve Hutcheson, Carl
nOffice: Second floor, Houston City Hall Honeycutt, Joe Stockard, Charles Shea, Sheila Walker
nEmail: lsutton@yahoo.com (city council), Larry Sutton (city administrator) and Don
nPhone: 417-967-3348 Tottingham (mayor).
The city administrator answers directly to nHouston Park Board: Toni McKinney (chairman), Trevor
Workers standby on a catwalk as the top section of the Houston City Council. He is respon- Ozier, Missy Gayer, Fawn Bell, Glen Abney, Kimberly Bit-
sible for the general administration of the city, appointing tle, Mike Kelly, Michael Pacheco and Heather Sponsler
the city’s newest water tower is lowered into position department heads, program coordination and the imple- (secretary).
at the Houston Industrial Park. mentation of policies. Sutton was hired by the city on Nov.
Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald 19, 2007.
COMMUNITY
In the heat of the battle

Houston area is served by two volunteer fire departments.
The City of Houston and Houston Rural fire summer, Houston firefighters participate in the Its station is on First Street just north of U.S.
departments share duties in responding to fire “Fill the Boot” fundraising campaign to benefit 63.
calls in and around Houston. the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Houston Rural’s fleet includes two pumpers,
Both are made up entirely of volunteer fire- The City of Houston department has three ve- a tanker, three brush trucks, one attack vehicle
fighters who undergo comprehensive and on- hicles in its fleet, including a Pierce Quantum and two rescue vehicles.
going training to be as equipped as possible ladder/pumper combination truck, a pumper Its station is on Walnut Street at Grand Av-
when they tend to a fire scene. Each year in late engine and a reserve pumper/supply truck. enue.
ABOVE: Members of the City of Houston Fire Depart-

ment include, front row, from left, Frank Gayer, Byron
Kruse, Michelle Graham, Chris Arwood, Jonathan
Cook and Terry Wolfe. Back row, Jeremy Werner,
assistant chief Jeremy St. John, Tom Terry, lieuten-
ant Chip Lange, first captain Don Gaston, assistant
chief Jon Cook, Chief Joey Moore. Not pictured:
Bobby Bell, Eric Brown, R.J. Enfield, Pat Jones, Josh
Lohrer, second captain C. J. Moore.
LEFT: Several Houston firefighters spray water on a

burning house on Chestnut Street in June 2016.
Photos by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
COMMUNITY
The crown jewel of the City of Houston Fire Department’s

fleet is a Pierce Quantum ladder truck.
Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT ROSTERS

CITY OF HOUSTON
nChief: Joey Moore
nFirst assistant chief: Jon Cook
nSecond assistant chief: Jeremy
St. John
nFirst captain: Don Gaston
nSecond captain: C.J. Moore
nLieutenant: Chip Lange
nFirefighters: Chris Arwood,
Bobby Bell, Eric Brown, Jonathan JOEY MOORE
Cook, Daniel Cooper, R.J. Enfield,
Doug Gaston, Frank Gayer, Michelle Graham, Pat
Jones, Byron Kruse, Josh Lohrer, Tom Terry, Jacob
Wallace, Jeremy Werner, Terry Wolfe
HOUSTON RURAL
nChief: Don Gaston
nAssistant chiefs: Joey Moore,
Richard Wood
nCaptains: Jon Cook, Jeremy St.
John
nFirefighters: Bobby Bell, Eric
Brown, Jonathan Cook, Doug Gas-
ton, Pat Jones, Byron Kruse, Chip
Lange, Josh Lohrer, C.J. Moore, DON GASTON
Tom Terry, Jacob Wallace, Terry
Wolfe
The Houston Rural Fire Department’s new rescue vehicle

was put into service in late March. It was obtained through a
state surplus program.
Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
COMMUNITY
ELECTED COUNTY OFFICIALS investing all funds for the county and ensuring money EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR
is segregated into separate funds. The collector is re- Keith Follin
SHERIFF sponsible for collecting real estate and personal property nOffice: 210 N. Grand, Suite 209; 417-967-
James Sigman taxes. It also generates licenses for county merchants. 6536
nOffice: 519 N. Grand Ave., Suite 101; nTerm: appointed by county commission
417-967-4165 COUNTY CLERK nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/
nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2020 Laura Crowley emergency-management
nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ nOffice: 210 N. Grand Ave., Suite 311; The office works to protect lives and property
departments/sheriff 417-967-2112 in the county that are natural and manmade. It develops a
The sheriff’s primary responsibility is to nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2018 county emergency operations plan to address the coordina-
protect and preserve the safety of Texas County resi- nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ tion of government departments and agencies in the event of
dents. The office patrols the county, responds to calls for departments/county-clerk an emergency.
service and investigates crimes. The office also oversees The county clerk is responsible for re-
the Texas County Jail. sponsible for managing and conducting elections. The COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
office also is charged with keeping accurate records of nOffices: Texas County Administrative Cen-
CORONER the orders and meetings of the county commission. The ter, 210 N. Grand Ave., Suite 301; 417-967-
Marie Lasater clerk is the budget/accounting officer for the county and 3222.
nOffice: P.O. Box 894, Licking; 573-247- accounts for all monies expended from and received nEmail: commission@texascountymissouri.
1672 into the various county funds. The clerk maintains pay- gov
nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2020 roll files, administers employee benefits and processes nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov STENGER
nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ account payables. The office issues county liquor and The county commission serves as the county
departments/coroner auctioneers licenses. The clerk’s office also certifies the executive body, establishing policy and man-
The coroner investigates deaths that are county assessed valuation totals and assists political agement of the budget. At least one commis-
the result of violence by homicide, suicide or accident, as subdivisions in setting tax levies. sioner is in the administrative center from 9
well as unforeseen sudden deaths where a physician has a.m. until 3 p.m. every weekday. Commis-
not be consulted in the previous 36 hours. All deaths of COUNTY ASSESSOR sion sessions are Wednesday and Thursday.
children ages birth to 18 are required to be investigated Debbie James CASEY
by the coroner and the Child Fatality Review Panel. nOffice: 210 N. Grand Ave., Suite 201; Presiding Commissioner Fred Stenger
417-967-4709 nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2018
SURVEYOR nTerm: expires Aug. 31, 2021
Chuck Manier nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ District 1 Commissioner John Casey
nOffice: 100 E. Walnut; 417-967-2777 departments/assessor nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2020
nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2020 The assessor is responsible for tracking all taxable real
nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ and tangible personal property in Texas County and as- District 2 Commissioner Doyle Heiney
HEINEY
departments/surveyor sessing the property annually. Assessed valuation pro- nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2020
The county surveyor does not receive a vides the tax base for property taxes levied by the county
salary from the county. It is the responsibil- and its political subdivisions, including schools, town-
ity of the county or an individual wanting a survey to pay ships, the county library, sheltered workshop and munici- STATE LEGISLATORS
the county surveyor for services. The county surveyor palities.
records all surveys in a county surveyors plat book. The Rep. Robert Ross
county surveyor is a member of the board of equalization. ASSOCIATE CIRCUIT JUDGE 142nd House District: Texas and parts of
Since 1993, the county surveyor and county commission Douglas Gaston Phelps, Howell and Pulaski counties.
have worked with Missouri to document 10 sections or nOffice: 519 N. Grand Ave.; 417-967-3663 nOffice: 201 W. Capitol Ave., Room 114A,
quarter section corners per year in the county. nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2018 Jefferson City, Mo., 65101; 573-751-1490
nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ nEmail: robert.ross@house.mo.gov
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR associate-circuit-judge nTwitter: reprobertross
Connie Thompson Criminal and civil cases are handled from
nOffice: 519 N. Grand Ave., Suite 205; the Texas County Justice Center. The as- Sen. Mike Cunningham
417-967-2669 sociate division hears and resolves a wide variety of cas- 33rd Senate District: Douglas, Howell,
nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2020 es. Texas County is included in the 25th Judicial Circuit Oregon, Ozark, Ripley, Texas, Webster and
The public administrator is responsible for along with Phelps, Pulaski and Pulaski counties. Wright counties.
the custodial and administrative tasks for nOffice: 201 W. Capitol Ave., Room 331, Jef-
estates of the deceased and estates of mi- CIRCUIT CLERK ferson City, Mo., 65101; 573-751-1882
nors and incapacitated or disabled people where there is Marci Mosley nEmail: mike.cunningham@senate.mo.gov
no legal guardian or conservator. The public administrator nOffice: 519 N. Grand Ave.; 417-967-3742
also serves as the court-appointed guardian, conservator, nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2018 U.S. CONGRESS
personal representative, fiduciary or surrogate for people nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/
or descendants when no one is willing or qualified. departments/circuit-clerk Sen. Claire McCaskill
The court clerk’s office maintains records nOffice: U.S. Senate, Hart Senate Of-
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY of criminal and civil cases in the circuit fice Building, Suite 503, Washington, D.C.
Parke Stevens Jr. and associate circuit courts. Collection of court costs is 20510; 202-224-6154
nOffice: 519 N. Grand Ave.; 417-967-2029 performed by the office, and it the responsibility of the nWebsite: mccaskill.senate.gov
nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2018 office to see that jury members are summoned for terms. Twitter: clairecmc
nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/
departments/prosecuting-attorney RECORDER OF DEEDS Sen. Roy Blunt
The prosecutor represents the state in all Lindsay Koch nOffice: 260 Russell Senate Office Building.
criminal cases in the county. The office also collects de- nOffice: 210 N. Grand, Suite 209; 417- Washington, DC 20510; 202-224-5721
linquent child support and performs bad check collection. 967-8438 nWebsite: blunt.senate.gov
nTerm: expires Dec. 31, 2018 nTwitter: royblunt
COLLECTOR-TREASURER nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/
Tammy Cantrell departments/recorder-of-deeds Rep. Jason Smith
nOffices: 210 N. Grand Ave., Suite 101 The recorder is responsible for recording nOffices: West Plains District Office, 35
(collector); 210 N. Grand Ave., Suite 107 documents in three main areas: real estate, uniform com- Court Square, Suite 300, West Plains, Mo.,
(treasurer); 417-967-2580 mercial code and marriage licenses. In addition, service- 65775: 417-255-1515 or Rolla District Office,
nTerm: expires March 31, 2021 men’s records, tax liens and miscellaneous documents 830A S. Bishop, Rolla, Mo., 65401; 573-364-
nWebsite: www.texascountymissouri.gov/ not in these areas might be recorded. 2455
departments/collector-treasurer nWebsite: jasonsmith.house.gov
The treasurer is responsible for receiving, disbursing and nTwitter: repjasonsmith
COMMUNITY
TOP EMPLOYERS
BUSINESS TYPE EMPLOYEES

Texas Co. Memorial Hospital hospital 358
Durham Co. electrical components 235
Walmart mass merchandise 230
Houston School District public school 174
Houston House nursing 85
Texas County government government 81
McDonald’s of Houston restaurant 75
Division of Family Support state agency 55
Houston Sportswear clothing apparel sewing 42
Opportunity Sheltered Ind. disabled employment 40
Miller’s Grill restaurant 35
City of Houston government 33
GAMO USA manufacturing 27
Missouri Dept. of Transportation state agency 27
Landmark Bank banking 25
Town & Country Supermarket grocery store 25
Evans Sports Inc. hunting/fishing accessories 24
Romines Motor Co. car dealership 24
Hardee’s of Houston restaurant 23
Pizza Hut of Houston restaurant 20
Houston Do-It Center retailer 18
Sonic of Houston restaurant 18
U.S. Forest Service federal agency 18
Corner Express Shell convenience store 16
Royal Oak Enterprises charcoal manufacturer 16
Bank of Houston banking 15
Subway restaurant 14
Mercy Clinic healthcare 13
First Baptist Church church/daycare 12
Houston Herald newspaper 12
Texas County Food Pantry public assistance 12
Forbes’ Pharmacy drugstore 11
Orscheln Farm & Home retailer 10
4-H clubs active in Houston

The University of Missouri Extension’s youth 4-H pro-
gram is alive and kicking in Houston.
Two clubs are active in the city, including the Houston
4-H Club, with leaders Wayne and Kimberly Bittle, and the
Show Clovers 4-H Club with leader Emma Hohenberger.
The county’s 4-H program is overseen by Texas County
Extension youth development specialist Janice Emery.
Youth ages 5-18 are eligible, with the ages 5-7 entering as
“Clover Kids” group members.
4-H offers projects like cake decorating, scrapbooking,
shooting sports, photography, international foods and Lego
robotics. Emery said the positive development of youth that
4-H instills has also been proven to increase problem solv-
ing ability and increase the likelihood that youth will be-
come contributing members of their community.
The Show Clovers club meets on the second Monday of
each month and the Houston 4-H club meets on the first
Thursday. The Houston club has about 25 members and the
Show Clovers have about 10.
The Show Clovers is a new club that started up earlier this
year, while the Houston club has been meeting for about a
year. Emery said the Show Clovers has an active Clover
Kids group, along with activities for older members, and fo-
cuses a lot on animal projects. The Houston club has several
project options, and offers a popular after-school robotics
program.
For more information about enrollment, clubs in the area
or volunteering, call Emery at MU Extension office in Hous-
ton at 417-967-4545 or email her at emeryjd@missouri.edu.
COMMUNITY
THINGS TO DO included Share Your Christmas, Angel Tree, Rachel’s 63 north of town.
Challenge, citywide Easter egg hunt and more. nAddress: 7575 N. Highway 63, Houston
HOUSTON SENIOR CENTER Students are invited to become a member during the nPhone: 417-967-6304
Located in downtown Houston, the facility offers area senior citizens a fall Houston High School club membership drive. nFacebook: LionsClubHoustonMissouri
place to gather for lunch, entertainment and good company five days a nPhone: 417-967-3024.
week. HOUSTON STORM SHELTER
nAddress: 301 S. Grand Ave., Houston FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES Volunteers through the City of Houston Office of
nPhone: 417-967-2013 As part of an international organization, the Houston Emergency Management assist with operating the
nFacebook: Houston-Senior-Center Eagles Club is a social, nonprofit private men and storm shelter during severe weather warnings.
women’s club and been at its present location since Individuals must live within the city limits or less
HOUSTON VISITORS CENTER 1983. The Piney River Aerie features a full bar, than five miles outside of Houston.
Located near Oak Hill Drive and U.S. 63, the facility is open 10 a.m. until shuffleboard, billiards, big screen TV, Internet, Wi-Fi, nPhone number: 417-967-4484
2 p.m. Monday through Friday with volunteers who can answer questions jukebox, full kitchen and covered patio with a large
about the community. The historic building was once the Haney Market, a barbecue grill. The club opens at noon six days TEXAS COUNTY FOOD PANTRY
landmark for commerce in town constructed in 1936. a week and is closed Tuesdays. Applications are There are many volunteer opportunities at the
nAddress: 501 E. Walnut St., Houston accepted for consideration to join, and membership county food pantry, including sorting donated
nPhone: 417-967-2220 dues are $30 per year. items, helping unload food deliveries, working
nAddress: 6954 S. U.S. 63, Houston the cash register in the thrift store, cleaning and
RADIO CONTROL AIR PARK nPhone: 417-967-2169 passing out food on commodity pick-up days.
Airplane enthusiasts can join more than 20 others at Houston’s air park nAddress: 102 A E. Highway 17, Houston
that features six model work/starting tables, transmitter frequency pin/ OZARK AMATEUR RADIO CLUB nPhone: 417-967-4484
board, safety fence, picnic tables a 350x25 rolled chat runway and 550x30 A group of “ham” radio enthusiasts dedicated to nEmail: tcfpdirector@centurytel.net
grass landing area. The field is open daily but most fly on Saturday and keeping alive the unique communication medium and nWebsite: txfoodpantry.com
Sunday afternoons or evenings. educating the public about its “off-grid” capabilities. nFacebook: TexasCountyFoodPantryInc
nAddress: Westwood Drive (behind airport), Houston More than 725,000 people are licensed ham radio
nPhone: 417-967-1189 operators in the U.S. The local club was founded TEXAS COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY
in the early 1970s and has about 35 members who The Texas County Republican Party is an
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS live in a radius of about 50 miles from Houston. Club organization with two clubs, whose purpose is to
members meet at noon on the third Saturday of each further the principles, by word and deed, of the
AMERICAN LEGION POST 41 month. Republican Party. The first club, the Texas County
American Legion Post 41 nPhone: Club president Willie Adey, 573-674-2174 Republican Committee, meets at 7 p.m. on the third
Organized in March 1937 between World War I and World War II, the Thursday of each month at the Houston Senior
group of veterans meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of each month. HOUSTON AREA CHAMBER Center (301 S. Grand Ave. in Houston), preceded by
nAddress: 1515 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston OF COMMERCE a potluck dinner at 6 p.m. The current chair is Diane
nPhone: 417-967-6206 A non-profit organization of 104 businesses, Krantz (phone 417-967-4699). The second club,
nWebsite: americanlegionpost41.org organizations and individuals dedicated to serving the Texas County Federated Republican Women
nEmail: post41info@centurylink.net the community and promoting a positive business (TCFRW), meets at noon on the second Saturday
environment. of each month, to include lunch, rotating between
BLUE HEAVEN CLUB Address: 501 E. Walnut St., Houston, Mo. various locations in Licking, Houston and Cabool.
Founded in the mid-1930s, Blue Heaven is a community-oriented women’s Phone: 417-967-2220 The current chairwoman is Linda Garrett (phone
club dedicated to serving Raymondville and promoting goodwill and nWebsite: www.houstonmochamber.com 573-674-3756). A Republican newsletter – The
friendship within the community. Meetings take place monthly at members’ nEmail: information@houstonmochamber.com “Texas County Commentary” – is published monthly
homes and feature food, business and entertainment. Club members by Diane Krantz who can be reached at the phone
volunteer at various events to raise funds for Raymondville’s school and HOUSTON LIONS CLUB number above or emailed at bkdk417@centurytel.
fire department, various community projects and several causes and Meets at noon each Friday at the “Lions Den” on U.S. net.
organizations. Membership costs 60 cents per year.
nPhone: 417-457-9219 (Helen Ward) or 417-457-6661 (Jean Cole).
History on demand
CASA
Court Appointed Special Advocates of Southwest Missouri is a nonprofit
organization that trains and supervises volunteers to represent the best
interests of children in the foster care system who are victims of child
abuse, neglect or severe domestic conflict. CASA volunteers are appointed
by judges to be a voice for these children in court and in the community,
Search for news

and the desired result is for the children to be placed in safe, loving homes.
The Texas County CASA office is located in the Justice Center in Houston
and the county CASA coordinator is Leigh Ann Sigman.
nPhone: 417-254-0074
nEmail: casavol@fidmail.com stories, your family
nWebsite: www.casascmo.org
COMMUNITY BETTERMENT AND

history, important
ARTS COUNCIL OF HOUSTON
Volunteers with the organization have been involved in activities and
happenings in the community since 1975. Among the group’s goals are
dates and more!
encouraging economic growth, supporting local businesses and promoting
jobs, health, safety, housing, recreation and spiritual well-being of the
citizens of the community. The group meets the third Monday of each Houston Herald issues since the 1880s
month at the Houston Senior Center. are available online. Enter a keyword or
nPhone: 417-967-8277
date and your search is complete.
COMMUNITY BETTERMENT Y.O.U.T.H.
An award-winning program open to students interested in community
service, Youth Organization Understanding Tomorrow’s Houston partners
with many civic organizations to provide unpaid assistance in the area. Monthly and annual subscription options available:
There are a minimum of five projects completed during the school year.
One or two seniors receive a $750 scholarship based on the merits
and work efforts during their high school career. Recent projects have
www.houstonherald.com/archives
Mike Woolsey and Sons

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We offer a 5-year warranty on all pumps and tanks and we service what we sell.
Call us at (417) 932-4036 • 2431 Date Dr., Summersville, MO 65571 • www.woolseypump.com • We accept all major credit cards
COMMUNITY
Chamber of commerce serves

Houston businesses, individuals
The Houston Area Chamber of Commerce
has been in operation since the early 1900s.
The organization’s headquarters is inside the
visitors center at U.S. 63 and Walnut Street, and
its operation is overseen by a nine-member vol-
unteer board of directors and its current exec-
utive director, lifelong Houston resident Angie
Miller-Quinlan.
The chamber’s long-standing mission state-
ment is “The Houston Area Chamber of Com-
merce is a proud organization that is working
hard to promote Houston and our local econ-
omy. All the promotions and activities of the
chamber are based on the premise that it cares
about the community, individuals and busi-
nesses.”
The organization’s slogan is “bridging the
gap between business and community.”
Miller-Quinlan can usually be found in her
office at the visitor center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
weekdays.
UPCOMING 2017 EVENTS
nMay 6: Indoor yard sale
nMay 18: Carson and Barnes Circus
nJune 29-30, July 1: 107th annual Old Settlers
Reunion; June 30 – Gospel night; June 30 and July
1 – Traxxas Monster Trucks Destruction Tour;
July 1 Independence Day celebration with annual
fireworks show follows
nJuly 28-29: Swap meet
nAug. 5: Houston night with the Springfield
Cardinals City of Houston firefighter Josh Lohrer sprays water into the mouth of a 31-year-old Asian elephant named
nAug. 26: Demolition derby Lisa near the Carson and Barnes Circus big top at the Houston Area Chamber of Commerce fairgrounds in
nSept. 22: Pumpkin Festival September 2015. The circus returns to Houston this month.
nOct. 7: Inside yard sale Photos by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
nOct. 14: Southern Missouri Truck and Tractor
Pulling Association truck pull
nNov. 4: Holiday bazaar
nNov. 25: Taste of Christmas
nDec. 8: Christmas tree lighting The Houston Area Chamber
nDec. 9: Christmas parade (Christmas songs of Commerce offices are
theme) inside the visitors center at
*dates subject to change U.S. 63 and Walnut Street.
CHAMBER’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBERSHIP

nPresident/treasurer: Crystal Stice (Landmark nOther board members: Justin Brown (Evans Funer- FEES
Bank) al Home), Bobby Dixon (Durham Co.), Richard Steck-
nCorporate: $500
nFirst vice president: Bruce Scheets (Bruce Scheets ler (Edward Jones Investments), Russ Stigall (pastor,
nBusiness: $100
Auctions) Houston First Baptist Church), Kim Stipanovich (Paws
nNon-profit: $75
nSecond vice president: John Thomas (CableAmer- N Claws).
nDirect sales or crafter: $50
ica) nEx-officio: Gayla Bratton (Infinite Entertainment)
nIndividual: $40
nSecretary: Lori Moncrief (Mitchell Insurance) nExecutive director: Angie Miller-Quinlan
COMMUNITY
Chamber director
leads ‘busy year’
for organization
We have been super busy this year here at the
chamber.
We hosted the chamber’s annual banquet in
January, indoor yard sale in February and the
Spring Bazaar in March. Without the support
of the community these events would not have
been successful.
The board and
myself have sev-
eral more events
planned for this
year. I’m excited
about the direc-
tion the chamber
is heading. We are
working hard to
bring family orient-
ed entertainment
to the community.
The next three ANGIE
months are going MILLER-QUINLAN
to be busy. We have
the indoor yard sale on May 6, Carson & Barnes
Circus May 18 and the show by the Monster
Truck Destruction Tour on June 30 and July 1.
Fireworks will follow the July 1 show.
The Houston Area Chamber of Commerce is
committed to the growth of the community. We
encourage our current chamber members to
become involved in our present and future ac-
tivities. We would like to add new members as
well. By becoming a member of the Chamber of
Commerce, you are investing in the betterment
of Houston and the surrounding community.
If anyone has suggestions of events they
would like to see, my door is always open.
I love my job, this town, and the people in it. I
have always been, and always will be, Houston
Proud!
ANGIE MILLER-QUINLAN,
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
HOUSTON AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COMMUNITY
HOUSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
TIM CEPLINA
nRank: Chief (24 years with HPD)
nAge: 49
nOther law enforcement experience: Two years
with Texas County Sheriff’s Department
nMarital status: Married
nEducation: Houston H.S. (Houston, Mo.);
degree in criminal justice, Drury University;
master’s degree in criminal justice, Drury University.
BRAD EVANS
nRank: Sergeant (13 years with HPD)
nAge: 35
nEducation: Licking H.S. (Licking, Mo.); degree
in criminal justice, Drury University; Law
Enforcement Technical Institute, Class A POST
certification
DAVID KIDWELL
nRank: Corporal (30 years with HPD)
nAge: 51
nEducation: Houston H.S. (Houston, Mo.);
associate’s degree in criminology, Drury
University; firearms, taser, pepper spray
instructor.
MATTHEW WOODMANSEE
nRank: Patrolman (seven years with HPD)
nAge: 27
nOther law enforcement experience: Four years
nEducation: Cabool H.S.; Class A POST
certification, Missouri Sheriff’s Association
GREG RYAN
nRank: Patrolman (With HPD since Oct. 1, 2015)
nAge: 24
nOther law enforcement experience: Four years
nEducation: Houston H.S.; Class A POST
certification, Missouri Sheriff’s Association
nThe Houston Police Department has two reserve officers: B.J.

Adler and Brian Allgire (both 26 years old). The agency is currently
seeking a sixth full-time officer.
FOLLOW US
@houstonherald
Get the latest news, sports scores, photos,

videos and more on your favorite social media
site. We’re on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,
YouTube and Pinterest.
CULTURE
COMING Renovations continue as

group plans to open the
TO LIFE historic Melba Theatre this

year in downtown Houston.
Jon Lin, of Willow Springs, works on the front of the Melba Theatre in downtown Houston. Behind him is a marquee that will be restored, including neon. The project
is an effort of Downtown Houston Inc. Gentry Construction Co. of Houston is the general contractor.
Photo by Brad Gentry, Houston Herald
A long idle jewel in the downtown Houston displays, including original seating that is on
will come to life this year. OTHER DOWNTOWN display, as well the neon “M” that had been on
Construction is slated to be completed by late HOUSTON PROJECTS the front of the building. The lobby opens up to
this summer on the Melba Theatre, which was nCreation of the Lone Star Plaza and near- a concession stand and restrooms to left and to
built in 1938 and quickly became the social hub by annex. the right are restrooms and dressing rooms for
for Houston and the surrounding area. The the- nDevelopment of Houston Visitors Center. productions.
atre closed in the early 1980s and has been unoc- nPartnered with the City of Houston on a The theatre stage has been enlarged, a garage
cupied since. grant for new street lights and sidewalks down- door added in the rear to aid in unloading and
A local group active in downtown revitaliza- town. bids were accepted for lighting, sound and cur-
tion — Downtown Houston Inc. — bought the nCommissioned new trash receptacles and tains. The building houses about 200 seats.
structure and two adjoining buildings and is benches for the downtown. Phase one of the renovations included remov-
transforming it. The organization raised about nRepurposed a copper canopy to create a al of the ceiling, tile, plumbing and other items
$500,000 that allowed for renovations of three shelter for the plaza, which is used by the Lone not required for the renovation. Later, Gentry
storefronts on Main Street that now house Uni- Star Farmers Market and others. Construction Co. of Houston was selected to be
versity Extension, a community meeting room the general contractor.
that is available for rent, a commercial kitchen, Downtown Houston Inc. is raising funds to in-
a walk-in cooler and fast freezer for the nearby Melba Theatre. stall new neon on the front of the building on
farmers market. The group then began focus- The updated building, when modernized, will Grand Avenue and on the ceiling of entrance.
ing on the last project, the renovation of the pay tribute to its past with several historical About $11,000 more is required to be generated.
CULTURE
Community facilities open
downtown, available for
public meetings and more
The county’s first community kitchen opened last year in
downtown Houston at the Lone Star Annex on First Street.
It is available on a rental basis and for classes, use by Univer-
sity of Missouri Extension and more. Cooking equipment and
refrigeration is available at the site and for use by vendors at
the nearby Lone Star Farmers Market. The closest commer-
cial, state-inspected similar facilities are in Mansfield, West
Plains and Springfield.
The kitchen is equipped with a walk-in cooler, six-burner
commercial range, convection oven, instant freezer, mixer,
food processor, stainless steel worktables and many other ac-
cessories.
A community room at the annex is available for meetings,
dinners, class reunions and wedding receptions. The 1,400
square foot space is equipped with round tables and chairs.
Funding for the projects came from USDA Rural Develop-
ment, Healthy Schools Healthy Communities (a local initia-
tive to encourage healthy lifestyles and good nutrition) and
the Neighborhood Assistance Program, which is overseen by
the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The Tex-
as County Health Department provided technical assistance.
Rental of the hall and commercial kitchen quarters covers Workers place shrubs and rocks at the entrance to the Lone Star Annex and University of Mis-
a small annual operating budget. For information about rent- souri Texas County Extension office adjacent to the Lone Star Plaza in downtown Houston.
ing either facility, call 417-967-4545. Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
CULTURE
Houston’s history
available online
Houston has a rich history. Residents — new ty Library or in Columbia at The State Historical
and old — can learn more about the community Society of Missouri
through the pages of the local newspaper, which About 13 years ago, the Herald rolled out its ar-
recently completed a project that puts all of the chives from 1948 to the present. The latest content
past issues online. fills the gap from the 1880s to 1947. In addition to
About 89,000 pages of previously printed issues the Houston Herald, archives include some select
of the Houston Herald dating to the late 1880s are issues from the Houston Republican, Texas County
available at houstonherald.com/archives. It is Pioneer (a southern Missouri journal in 1869), Tex-
believed to be the most complete digital archive as County Sentinel (1890-1893) and Houston Demo-
among weekly newspapers in the state. crat (1881-1883).
The searchable collection begins in May 1881 and Here’s how it works:
extends until this year. Users click the “archives” nArchives can be accessed through the houston-
tab on the home page at houstonherald.com. herald.com website under “archives.” The cost is
Curious about the town’s history? Searchable $4.95 for a month’s access or $19.95 for six months.
images show each week’s newspaper, and allows The Herald’s host vendor, Newspapers.com, and
a user to complete a detailed search for informa- its affiliate, Ancestry.com, have archives of thou-
tion, save a clipping into their own scrapbook and sands of publications.
share the information by email, Facebook, Twit- nThe database is searchable by name, subject or
ter, Google+, Pinterest or embed the clipping on by date. The online search will display the whole
a website. Previously, the information was only page, articles, photos and ads. start using the archives. One is an introduction
available on scratchy microfilm at the Texas Coun- nTwo videos are included on the page to help and the other teaches how to search.
THINGS TO DO citizens to the fine arts with the objective of sharing the nFacebook: downtownhoustoninc
program nationwide.
LONE STAR Farmers Market nAddress: 519 Main St., Cabool Fleet Reserve Association
Vendors offer locally produced crops, meat, eggs and nPhone: 417-254-3168 Branch 364 and Unit
other food items and locally made crafts. The market nWebsite: www.thestarsfoundation.org Meets at 2:30 p.m. the fourth Sunday of each month at the
operates under the big copper canopy at the Lone Star nEmail: matbec@centurytel.net Legion Hall on South Sam Houston Blvd.
Plaza downtown, and is open 7 a.m. to noon Fridays and nFacebook: thestarsfoundation1
on some Tuesdays. Fraternal Order of Eagles,
nPhone: 417-217-2674 Texas County Genealogical #3911 and aerie
nEmail: randeedandee3@gmail.com and Historical Society Meets on South U.S. 63 at 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of
nFacebook: Lone Star Farmer’s Market The organization’s library is open from 10-3 p.m. Thursdays each month.
at its building on Grand Avenue next to Evans Funeral nWebsite: www.foe.com
Piney River Brewing Company Home. It closes for winter and reopens each March. nPhone: 417-967-2169
Located near Highway ZZ in Bucyrus, the brewery’s BARn
is open 2-9 p.m. Fridays, 2-7 p.m. Saturdays and noon GROUPS/CLUBS Girl Scouts
to 5 p.m. Sundays for enjoying Piney River brews on tap. Houston Girl Scout Troop 70166 meets the first and third
Many Saturdays in the BARn also feature live music by Community Betterment Wednesdays October through May for girls in grades
a variety of Missouri Ozarks area artists. Souvenirs and and Arts Council of Houston K-8. There are also host get-togethers in the summer.
canned beer are available for purchase. Community Betterment and Arts Council of Houston works Along with learning oaths and badges, girls are taught
nAddress: 15194 Walnut Grove Drive, Bucyrus toward the betterment of the county seat in Texas County, confidence, courage and character. Signup events are in
nPhone: 417-967-4001 Houston. It also oversees the local Imagination Library, which August or September but new members are welcome to
nWebsite: www.pineyriverbrewing.com provides free books monthly to children. Most recently, the join anytime.
nEmail: joleen@pineyriverbrewing.com organization was recognized with first place in Houston’s nPhone: 417-457-1006
population category. Its youth group took second. nEmail: LKrizan@hotmail.com
Phoenix Theater & Drive-in nAddress: 501 E. Walnut St. nFacebook: GirlScoutTroop70166
A motion picture facility with an indoor screen with seating nFacebook:
for 190 viewers open year-round and a drive-in screen CommunityBettermentandArtsCouncilOfHoustonMo Houston Area Chamber of Commerce
open approximately April to October (weather permitting) nPhone: 417-967-2220 The Houston Area Chamber of Commerce was formed
is one of the handful remaining in the state. in 1906 to serve the community and provide a positive
nAddress: 16657 Highway B, Houston Downtown Houston Inc. environment. It sponsors numerous events during the
nPhone: 417-967-3010 The organization is dedicated to the betterment of Houston course of the year. A noon luncheon is the first Tuesday of
nWebsite: www.phoenixdrivein.com and its downtown business district. The organization has each month at the Houston Lions Club den.
nFacebook: Phoenix-Theater undertaken several projects, and in 2017 launched the nAddress: Houston Visitors Center, U.S. 63 and Walnut
renovation of the Melba Theater on Grand Avenue in St.
S.T.A.R.S Foundation Houston. It was constructed in 1938. nPhone: 417-967-2220
An organization dedicated to providing underprivileged nAddress: P.O. Box 170, Houston. nWebsite: houstonmochamber.com
people with the opportunity to participate in fine arts nWebsite: Melbaperformingartscenter.com nEmail: information@houstonmochamber.com
activities at no cost or a reduced cost, and exposing all nEmail: downtownhouston@houstonmo.org nFacebook: Houston-Area-Chamber-of-Commerce
CULTURE
Ryan and Amanda Munson were among the more than 1,100
Christians participating in ‘Carry The Cross’ on Good Friday.
Photo by Jeff McNiell, Houston Herald
Houston Community Foundation

The organization enhances the quality of life in the community through
resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and
public leadership. The organization is an affiliate of the Community
Foundation of the Ozarks.
nFacebook: HoustonCommunityFoundation
nPhone: 417-967-6811
Houston Garden Club

The organization is open to those who enjoy gardening and is affiliated
the Federal Garden Clubs of Missouri. It meets at 1:30 p.m. the first
Tuesday of each month at Houston First Baptist Church.
nAddress: 1241 Hawthorn St., Houston
nPhone: 417-967-3169
Houston Lions Club

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization.
It has 1.35 million members in more than 46,000 clubs worldwide. Its
primary mission is eyesight projects. The group meets at noon Fridays
at the Lions Club Den on North U.S. 63.
nAddress: North U.S. 63, Houston
nWebsite: lionsclubs.org
nPhone: 417-260-1069
Licking Residential Care
nFacebook: LionsClubHoustonMissouri
nEmail: dshel@gotrain.org
Mary S. Chapter #126

The members of the Order of the Eastern Star are part of the Freemason
Organization. They are dedicated women and men who sincerely reflect
the spirit of fraternal love and the desire to work together for good. It
gives them the opportunity to give a part of their time to many projects
that benefit mankind. Lessons are scriptural, purposes are beneficent
and teachings are moral. The Eastern Star helps sponsor the local child
identification program.
nAddress: 812 Dooley St., Houston
nPhone: 417-962-4483
nEmail: mem46oes@yahoo.com
Ozarks Older Iron Club

The club’s purpose it to stimulate interest in collecting, restoring,
preserving and exhibiting gasoline and oil engines, gas/diesel and
steam engine tractors and other farm-related equipment of historical
value.
nAddress: 310 Cannady, Cabool. (Show grounds)
nWebsite: ozarksolderironclub.org
nEmail: ozarksolderironclub@gmail.com
Piney River Quilt Guild

Established in January 2000 with 23 charter members, the group hosts
monthly programs that include fellowship, door prizes and show-and- Applications for residents are being accepted for our intermediate
tell. Special retreats and workshops are held throughout the year. The care facility. Stop by for a tour.
group supports many charities both locally and regionally. Monthly
meetings are 1 p.m. the third Thursday of each month.
nPhone: 417-967-4959 225 W. Highway 32, Licking • (573) 674-2207
nEmail: rjoens@centurytel.net
24 Thursday, May 4, 2017 HOUSTON HERALD www.houstonherald.com
EDUCATION
ABOUT HOUSTON SCHOOLS
HOUSTON R-1 SCHOOL DISTRICT

nAddress: 423 W. Pine, Houston
nSuperintendent: Dr. Allen Moss
nMascot: Tigers
nTotal district enrollment: 966 and pre-kin- MOSS
dergarten, 32
nWebsite: www.houston.k12.mo.us
nFacebook: HoustonMoTigers
nTwitter: HoustonMoTigers
SUPERINTENDENT
nDr. Allen Moss
nBio: Dr. Moss, who was hired in February A. SMITH
2016 following the resignation of Scott Dill, is
concluding his first school year as the leader
of Houston Schools. He is under contract
through the 2018-’19 school year.
HOUSTON HIGH SCHOOL

nPrincipal: Amy Smith SLOAN
nAssistant Principal: Eric Sloan
nNumber of Students: 337
nGraduation rate: 91.5 percent
HOUSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL

Houston Schools Superintendent Dr. Allen Moss, left, receives a check from the Houston Education Founda- nPrincipal: Amber Stephens
nNumber of students: 223
tion to purchase chromebooks for the district. Presenting the check to Moss are HEF members, from left: STEPHENS
Rita Ruckert, Dan Adey, Melissa Fockler, Joe Richardson, Becky Eidson, Tom Dunn and Kathy Hutcheson. HOUSTON ELEMENTARY
Submitted photo
SCHOOL
HELPING HANDS
nPrincipal: Jody Jarrett
nNumber of students: 406
EXCEPTIONAL CHILD
COOPERATIVE JARRETT
nAddress: 423 W. Pine, Houston
FOR DISTRICT
nDirector: Jeremy Smith
nNumber of students: About 800 with special
needs.
nAbout: The Exceptional Child Cooperative
is a joint effort of 13 south-central Missouri
school districts and is based in Houston.
Houston Education Foundation celebrates 10th year. J. SMITH
BOARD OF EDUCATION
The Houston Education Foundation — an or- see students and teachers succeed.
ganization dedicated to the betterment of the Dr. Joe Richardson said upon its 10th anniver- Stacie Darren
Houston School District — is celebrating its sary, the group has several goals in place for fu- Ely Ice
10th anniversary. It has pumped in tens of thou- ture endeavors: nJoined: 2015 nJoined: 2017
sands of dollars to aid local students. nContinued help in upgrading technology in nTerm expires nTerm expires
Last year, the foundation was able to gener- all grades. 2018 2020
ate funds to add 60 Chromebooks for use in the nProviding for specific teacher grant requests
Jo Curtis
fourth and fifth grades. They were incorporated for items not available through the regular Holland Hubbs
into classrooms at the beginning at the school school budget. nJoined: 2008 nJoined: 2013
year. A check for $13,140 was presented to Dr. nHelping with costs of new band uniforms nTerm expires nTerm expires
Allen Moss, superintendent of schools, for the that will go on display soon. 2020 2019
purchase. nBuilding the Houston Education Foundation
Several businesses and individuals contrib- Endowment Fund. Christie Jennifer
uted to make this possible. In 2015 and 2016, 180 nParticipating in the third annual “Give Koch Scheets
nJoined: 2017 nJoined: 2015
Chromebooks were acquired through the foun- Ozarks Day” this year, which is organized by nTerm expires
nTerm expires
dation for use for students in fourth through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks on 2020 2019
twelfth grade. May 9.
All of its support over the last decade has The board meets the third Tuesday of each
Leon BOARD ROLES
helped fund projects such as this through the month. Slape nPresident: Holland
foundation. Alumni have been instrumental in Donations are tax-deductible and can be sent nJoined: 2015 nVice President: Scheets
helping the foundation. to: Houston Education Foundation, P.O. Box 102, nTerm expires n S e c r e t a r y / Tr e a s u r e r :
Many have stepped forward with a desire to Houston, Mo. 65483. 2018 Slape
EDUCATION
THINGS TO DO
TEXAS COUNTY LIBRARY

The Texas County Library’s Houston branch is located downtown
and offers a kids club (3:30 p.m.) and story time (10:30 a.m.) each
Wednesday. Computers are available for free public use. Hours of
operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m.
to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. There
are also branches in Licking, Summersville and Cabool.
nAddress: 117 W. Walnut St., Houston
nPhone: 417-967-2258
nWebsite: www.texascountylibrary.lib.mo.us
nEmail: htlib@texascountylibrary.lib.mo.us
TEXAS COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART AND HISTORY

Located in downtown Licking, the facility has on display hundreds of
pieces of various forms of art from around the world, some produced
by famous artists. It’s also a gathering place for local artisans, many
of whom go there to work on projects and some of whom periodically
conduct workshops there for anyone interested in gleaning from
their knowledge, experience and talent. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mondays and Tuesdays from March through November. The museum
reopens each year with an event in March featuring live music and art
displays.
nAddress: 112 S. Main St., Licking
nPhone: 573-674-4799
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS
HOUSTON EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Houston Education Foundation promotes education excellence
and opportunity beyond the scope of the Houston R-1 school system
by generating financial resources from private funds to provide support
for educational programs. The HEF board meets at 6 p.m. the third
Tuesday of each month in the Houston superintendent’s office.
nAddress: P.O. Box 102, Houston, Mo. 65483
nWebsite: www.houston.k12.mo.us/community/education_foundation
nEmail: jrichardson@centurytel.net
nFacebook: HoustonEducationFoundation
HOUSTON CITIZENS FOR EDUCATION

A liaison between the community and Houston R-1 School Board, the
group hosts the annual Academic Awards Program each spring.
nEmail: sgatlin@houston.k12.mo.us
nPhone: 967-3024, ext 302
HOUSTON HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI

Graduates of HHS organize annual Alumni Weekend activities in
connection with homecoming and provide scholarships for graduating
seniors. The group meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of each month
inside the library at Houston Elementary School.
nPhone: 417-967-2616
nWebsite: www.hhsalumni.us
nEmail: pkhoney@centurytel.net
TEXAS COUNTY RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

Open to retired teachers, school employees and non-certified persons,
the group is involved in community affairs and works for worthy
educational causes. They meet the second Monday of the month in
March-June and September-December.
nPhone: 417-967-3622
nFacebook: Texas-County-Retired-Teachers
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

The community-based volunteer organization is devoted to the
enhancement of the Texas County Libraries. The group provides help
in two specific areas: funding and public relations. All proceeds from
selling “gently used” books and other fundraisers are given to the
library to help support its needs. Meetings are held at all four branches
in Houston, Licking, Summersville and Cabool.
nHouston phone number: 417-967-0885
nHouston email: htlib@texascountylibrary.lib.mo.us
26 Thursday, May 4, 2017 HOUSTON HERALD www.houstonherald.com
AGRICULTURE
Grow it, eat it

CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS
4-H
A University of Missouri Extension program that offers many
youth activities (from animal and plant sciences to robotics
including and shooting) designed to teach participants skills
that make a positive impact upon their community. Several
Community Garden offers in-town farming to public. 4-H clubs operate in Texas County, including Houston.
nAddress: 1418 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston
nPhone: 417-967-4545
nWebsite: www.4h.missouri.edu
nEmail: Emeryjd@missouri.edu
nFacebook: Missouri4h
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Courtesy of the University of Missouri Texas County Exten-
sion, the community garden features close to 40 plots made
available at no charge to local citizens. Seeds are also pro-
vided free, and MU Extension Master Gardeners are often on
hand to offer free advice and tips about gardening.
nPhone: 417-967-4545
HOUSTON GARDEN CLUB

The group cares for flowerbeds in the community and also
assists homeowners in maintaining their gardens. Meetings
are 1:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month except Janu-
ary and February. Gardening tips and expertise are shared
with the group.
nPhone: 417-967-2148
nEmail: blisscab@gmail.com
OZARKS OLDER IRON CLUB

Branch 28 of the Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Asso-
ciation, the non-profit club is for people interested in collect-
ing, restoring, preserving and exhibiting gasoline, diesel and
steam engine tractors, gas and oil engines and other farm
related equipment of historical value. Shows are hosted each
year in May and October, and meetings take place at 7 p.m.
on the first Monday of each month at the club’s showgrounds
in Cabool.
nShowgrounds address: 310 Cannady, Cabool
nWebsite: www.ozarksolderironclub.com
nEmail: ozarksolderironclub@gmail.com
MU Extension specialist Dana McGuire talks with Houston summer school students at the Houston Com- TEXAS COUNTY FAIR BOARD
munity Garden. Volunteers dedicated to enhancing the future of the com-
Photos by Doug Davison, Houston Herald munity by offering youth an outlet for positive development
through staging an event to exhibit 4-H and FFA projects in
The University of Missouri Texas County Ex- The Community Garden is located on Sam a safe environment. The group oversees fundraising for im-
tension Master Gardeners have for years man- Houston Blvd. behind the Mercy Clinic. Sign-ups provements to the livestock barns and showing arena at the
aged the Houston Community Garden, allowing for plots began April 1. Houston Area Chamber of Commerce Fairgrounds.
nAddress: P.O. Box 138, Houston, Mo. 65483
local citizens to grow crops in designated plots for Again this year, Master Gardeners will provide
nPhone: 417-260-2869
free. free assistance and advice to Community Garden nWebsite: www.texascountyfairboard.com
Master Gardener Doris Altom said that for the participants. nFacebook: TexasCountyFair
2017 growing season, half of the garden will be Altom said volunteers to help with the garden
used for plots reserved by individuals while the are being sought. To inquire about a plot or to vol- TEXAS COUNTY SOIL AND WATER
CONSERVATION DISTRICT
other half will be available to area churches to unteer, email Verlin Altom at valtom@centurytel.
Provides financial incentives to landowners to implement
provide fresh produce for people in their respec- net, or call 417-967-5809. The Texas County Master practices that help prevent soil erosion and protect water
tive congregations. Gardeners can also be found on Facebook. resources. Staff provides technical support with the design,
implementation and maintenance of these practices.
Address: USDA Service Center, 6726-C S. U.S. 63, Houston,
Mo., 65483
nPhone: 417-967-2028
nWebsite: www.swcd.mo.gov/texas/
Numerous varieties of TEXAS COUNTY YOUNG

FARMERS AND RANCHERS
crops grow heartily at
The small group of young farmers is passionate about agri-
the Houston Commu- culture and promoting agriculture leadership opportunities in
nity Garden, located on the county. They are active with the Texas County Farm Bu-
Sam Houston Blvd. in reau and have hosted programs on beef cattle theft preven-
Houston. The garden tion and Amendment 1. Meetings rotate at various locations
in Texas County.
relies on volunteers to
nPhone: 417-967-6558
sign up for plots and nEmail: texascountyyfr@gmail.com
tend to produce. nFacebook: texascountyyfr
AGRICULTURE
Fair board
promotes,
oversees youth
activities
By DOUG DAVISON
Houston Herald
ddavison@houstonherald.com
One of the busiest groups of volunteers in the

Houston area is the Texas County Fair Board.
Made up of men and women dedicated to pro-
moting agriculturally-oriented activities for area
youth, the fair board annually organizes and con- Participants in swine showing competition walk their animals last summer during the Texas County Fair
ducts the community’s two biggest livestock-relat- Board’s annual Texas County Livestock Fair.
ed events: The Texas County Livestock Fair and Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
the Jackpot Show.
The Livestock Fair takes place in the livestock “We’re very thankful to everybody who gets This year’s Jackpot Show is set for Sunday, June
barns and arena at the Houston Area Chamber involved and wants to see kids in the commu- 4, and the Livestock Fair will run from Thursday,
of Commerce Fairgrounds on the north end of nity show their animals and show pride in what July 27 through Saturday, July 29.
town, usually spanning they’re doing,” said fair board chairman Dar- For more information about the Texas County
a three or four day pe- ren Ice. “It takes a big commitment to do this, Fair Board, call Ice at 417-260-0471, or board mem-
riod in July. The event and we need all the help from the people who bers Curtis Rouse at 417-217-2588 or Tiffany Hines
features youth showing provide it.” at 417-217-2398.
competition in numer-
ous categories of both
small and large farm
animals, and culmi-
nates Saturday after-
noon with the Junior
Livestock Sale in which
local individuals and
TEXAS COUNTY
business representa-
tives purchase kids’ an- FAIR BOARD
imals in a live auction PRESIDENT
format. DARREN ICE
Taking place in June,
the Jackpot Show features young livestock exhibi-
tors from many communities around the region
who show their animals in various competitive
categories with cash prizes and other awards on
the line.
The fair board is always involved in making
improvements to the livestock area at the fair
grounds, and this year will introduce a 1,440
square foot multi-purpose building constructed
adjacent to the barns. Funding for the air-condi-
tioned structure was provided by a Missouri De-
partment of Agriculture BOAC grant (Building
Our American Communities), a program that as-
sists state FFA and 4-H chapters with projects.
To help finance their efforts, fair board members
host a major fundraiser banquet and auction each
October. Many businesses, organizations and in-
dividuals not on the board contribute in various
ways.
HEALTHCARE
Building
blocks of
HOPE
Pregnancy Resource Center
promotes life in Houston.
By DOUG DAVISON
Houston Herald
Officials at the Pregnancy Resource Center of

South Central Missouri (PRC) say the facility “of-
fers help when it seems there’s no hope.”
As a non-profit and community-based pregnan-
cy center in Houston, the PRC relies on donations
and fundraising events
to keep its services free
for women and men fac-
ing crisis pregnancies.
“We depend on gen-
erous donations from
people in the local com-
munity,” said executive
director Debra Stockard. The PRC is at 107 E.
“Our fundraising events Pine Street in downtown
and donations from oth- Houston. Hours are 10
ers help us to offer free a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday
programs and services through Friday. For
to anyone who walks more information, call
through our doors. The 417-967-1100.
more people who donate,
the more lives will be touched, changed and trans-
formed.”
Services offered at the center include pregnancy
testing, ultrasounds, crisis pregnancy and post-
abortive counseling, prenatal, parenting, and nu-
trition classes, men’s mentoring and education on
abstinence until marriage, as well as material as-
sistance and information on adoption. Pregnancy Resource Center of South Central Missouri executive director Debra Stockard stands next to the
Education is an important part of the PRC’s pro- facility’s new ultrasound machine.
gramming before and during pregnancy. Through Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
“Earn While You Learn” classes, mothers and fa-
thers can learn prenatal needs, parenting skills County Memorial Hospital medical personnel, in- sion as we offer help, hope, and healing to those
and nutrition while earning “Baby Bucks” to use cluding doctors Christopher Baldwin and William making challenging pregnancy decisions,”
in the center’s “Baby Boutique” for items such Wright, and midwife Tracy Arwood. Stockard said.
as clothing, blankets, diapers, toys, strollers and To begin April, the PRC was serving 63 clients, All monetary donations, new or gently used
more for their newborns and baby’s first year. with various classes taking place hourly. Stockard baby items and maternity clothing are accepted.
In addition to a nine-member board of direc- said ultrasound sessions with Arwood are avail- “And greatly appreciated,” Stockard said.
tors and a trained staff affiliated with Heartbeat able on Mondays. Financial donations can be mailed to PRC, P.O.
International, the center has the support of Texas “We strive to serve our clients with compas- Box 295, Houston, Mo., 65483.
Medical, dental
and behavioral
services available
at new facility
A new health center is available to see pa-
tients on Houston’s South Sam Houston Blvd.
Missouri Ozarks Community Health is a Fed-
erally Qualified Health Center, established in
1996. The mission is to provide quality, afford-
able and accessible medical, dental and behav-
ioral services to the communities served. As a
private, non-profit organization, it is partially
funded by federal grant dollars to provide care
to everyone within the areas of Douglas, Ozark,
Texas and Wright counties in Missouri.
Missouri Ozarks has six clinic locations, in-
cluding the main clinic in Ava. Satellite clinics
were established in Gainesville in 2003, Man-
sfield in 2005, Cabool in 2013 and in Mountain
Grove, which opened in 2015. The newest lo-
cation opened its doors on April 3 and it is at
1340 S. Sam Houston Blvd. in Houston. A wide
variety of services are offered at each clinic lo-
cation.
All Missouri Ozarks locations accept Med-
icaid, Medicare, private insurance and self
pay. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, it
also offers a discounted rate (slide program) to
those who do not have medical or dental cov-
erage and whose household income meets the
guidelines.
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CARDINALS NEWS
FROM YOUR LOCAL
NEWS SOURCE David Keeney
203 N. Grand, Houston
417-967-4112
Get the latest St. Louis Cardinals
news and updates with an online
subscription to the HOUSTON HERALD
www.houstonherald.com/subscribe
HEALTHCARE
TCMH provides primary care services

T
exas County Memorial Hospital first
opened its doors in Houston in December
1958, and for more than 50 years, the hos-
pital’s board of trustees has continually grown
its primary care services to meet the healthcare
needs of Texas County and the surrounding area.
Several years ago, the TCMH board of trustees
began working toward a goal of building new or
renovating all the patient care areas in the hos-
pital. Many patient care areas were completely
updated in 2013 when TCMH opened the doors
on a 59,000 square foot expansion featuring a new
emergency department, medical surgical floor, a
radiology suite and expanded registration depart-
ment.
The emergency department features 13 fully en-
closed private patient rooms, a four-bed trauma
room and a drive through ambulance bay and a
helicopter pad connected to the emergency de-
partment. The department also includes a decon-
tamination room and a psychiatric room. Staffed
24 hours a day, seven days a week, TCMH employs
emergency room physicians, nurses and techs to
provide emergency care.
Radiologic services include MRI, CT, ultra-
sound, nuclear imaging, X-ray, bone densitometry Texas County Memorial Hospital opened in Houston in 1958 and employs more people than any other busi-
and digital mammography. Most radiologic ser- ness in the city.
vices are available 24/7 to meet emergency patient Submitted photo
care needs as they arise.
The new medical surgical department features allowing for infant/parent bonding following Cae- A full-service physical therapy department
20 private patient rooms with full private bath- sarean sections. at TCMH provides inpatient, outpatient and in-
rooms and offer increased privacy and infection The TCMH Healthcare Foundation began a home physical therapy services, isokinetic test-
control for patients and their families. The de- $3.2 million capital campaign project to raise ing, wound therapy, LSVT BIG therapy, lymph-
partment also has six semi-private rooms and four funds for the tornado safe room and surgery de- edema therapy and more.
bariatric patient rooms. partment in 2011. The foundation has exceeded TCMH has a four-bed intensive care depart-
Construction is still underway on the hospital’s the goal of the campaign, but fundraising efforts ment and a seven-bed obstetrics department.
campus. A new, 7,000-square foot surgery depart- continue to raise funds for the surgery portion About 300 babies are born annually at the county
ment is being built in between the walls of the Jay- of the project. hospital. TCMH has an obstetrician and gynecol-
son Gentry Community Safe room and the main The foundation also raises funds for education- ogist, four family medicine physicians and a cer-
hospital building. al scholarships for area students pursuing addi- tified nurse midwife that provide prenatal care
The new surgery department will double the tional education in healthcare fields. The overall at clinics in Texas County and deliver babies at
size of two operating rooms and add an outpatient mission of the foundation is to ensure the qual- the hospital’s obstetrics unit.
surgery room. The latest technology will be in- ity of healthcare services for children, women The laboratory and cardiopulmonary depart-
corporated in the building and design of the new and men at TCMH. ment operate 24/7 at TCMH. A Cardiopulmonary
department which increases operating room effi- Also inside the hospital’s doors is a general sur- Rehabilitation Clinic offers cardiac and pulmo-
ciency. Seven private pre- and post-surgery bays gery clinic making inpatient or outpatient surgi- nary rehabilitation to patients under the oversight
will be part of the new department, increasing cal procedures very convenient for patients, the of a pulmonologist that also sees patients at the
privacy for patients and their family members and surgeon and the surgery staff. TCMH Medical Complex in Houston.
ORGANIZATIONS/GROUPS Texas County Memorial Hospital, work in the Auxiliary nAddress: 1333 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston
Gift Shop, assist various hospital departments with filing, nPhone: 417-967-1236
HOSPICE OF CARE phones or other services and help patients with finding nEmail: tcmh.administration@tcmh.org
Volunteers provide end of life care for patients and their their way around the hospital.
families by assisting with specific needs, some of which nAddress: 1333 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston VOLUNTEER CHAPLAINS ASSOCIATION
involve meeting patients and families in their homes, nPhone: 417-967-1236 A group of lay members and area clergy that provide
through the program at Texas County Memorial Hospital. nEmail: tcmh.administration@tcmh.org spiritual care for the patients, family members and
nAddress: 1333 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston employees at Texas County Memorial Hospital.
nPhone: 417-967-1279 TCMH YOUTH AMBASSADORS nAddress: 1333 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston
nEmail: cowens@tcmh.org High school juniors and seniors or college students nPhone: 417-967-1274
volunteer their time in departments at Texas County nEmail: agimpel@tcmh.org
TCMH AUXILIARY Memorial Hospital. They gain experience in areas from
The volunteers assist patients from the front desk of clerical services to patient care.
HEALTHCARE
The pulmonologist also oversees the TCMH surgeon that sees patients and provides compre-
Sleep Studies Laboratory – a two-bed sleep studies hensive general surgery care through the hospi-
laboratory that operates nightly. tal’s surgery department and the TCMH Outpa-
TCMH’s Hutcheson Pharmacy is the retail phar- tient Surgery Clinic.
macy owned by the hospital. It is open Monday Teresa Loden, MD, a board certified pediatri-
through Friday, and it is known for providing fast, cian, will join the TCMH Medical Complex in July
personalized service without a wait. Hutcheson 2018, and Jason Loden, MD, a general surgeon cur-
Pharmacy is also part of the low-cost 340-B drug rently in residency, will join TCMH in July 2018,
prescription program available for patients with- too.
out insurance coverage that use TCMH physicians TCMH is the largest employer in Texas County
or mid-level providers. with more than 300 full-time and part-time em-
TCMH Hospice of Care provides palliative care ployees. Hospital salaries and benefits are more
for terminally ill patients in Texas County and the than $15 million annually. In 2015, TCMH brought
surrounding area. Hospice services can be provid- more than $14 million in federal and state funds
ed in a patient’s home or in the hospital, depend- from Medicare and Medicaid into Texas County.
ing upon the patient’s specific needs. Hospice of The hospital also paid out almost $1 million to
Care offers care regardless of a patient’s ability to county businesses for services and goods received
pay for the services. by the hospital. Gross revenue at the county facil-
TCMH Home Health of the Ozarks serves a 40- ity topped $65 million in 2015.
mile radius from Houston, providing in-home care “Whether it’s for an emergency, a diagnostic
ranging from nursing to physical therapy to assis- service or routine healthcare, we want our hospi-
Linda Bassett, a registered nurse in the TCMH obstet-
tance with activities of daily living. Home Health tal and clinics to be the place area residents choose
rics department, provided handmade red knit hats for
of the Ozarks and Hospice of Care services are for their care,” Wes Murray, chief executive offi-
all the babies born in February 2016 at the hospital.
available with a physician’s referral. cer at TCMH, said.
Her grandson, Elich Harris, was born with a congenital
The hospital has five clinics with physicians that TCMH is an independent hospital governed by a
heart defect.
specialize in general surgery, gynecology, obstet- Submitted photo
five-person elected board of trustees.
rics, pulmonology, internal medicine and family “For over 50 years we have been a cornerstone in
medicine. Mid-level providers – nurse practitio- vides obstetrics care in Mountain Grove two days the community,” Murray said, “And we are plan-
ners, a physician assistant and a nurse midwife a week. ning to be here for the healthcare of future genera-
– also provide complementary care in the clinics. Linda Milholen, MD is a board certified general tions, too.”
The TCMH Medical Complex is in Houston and
features internal medicine specialist Jonathan
Beers, DO. Holly Atterberry, a family nurse prac-
titioner, works with Beers in caring for adult pa-
tients at the clinic. Christopher Baldwin, MD is a
specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, and Tracey
Arwood is a certified nurse midwife working with
him in the clinic. Cory Offutt, MD is a family med-
icine physician that provides complete obstetrics
care, too, and he sees patients of all ages for any
other healthcare concerns. William Wright, MD
is a family medicine physician at the clinic, and
he specializes in pediatrics and women’s health.
Juan Mella, MD, is a pulmonologist and sleep
studies specialist seeing patients at the clinic.
The TCMH Walk In Clinic inside the Houston
clinic is open Monday through Friday for patients
of all ages. Nurse practitioners Atterberry, Ray
Bruno, FNP and Sheena Painter, FNP see patients
at the Walk In Clinic.
The TCMH Family Clinic in Licking is home to
Joshua Wolfe, MD, a family medicine physician,
and Whitney Young, a physician assistant. Offutt
also sees patients at the Licking Clinic on a part-
time basis.
Stephen Hawkins, MD, a family medicine physi-
cian, and Terry Bruno, family nurse practitioner,
see patients of all ages at the TCMH Cabool Medi-
cal Clinic.
Practicing at the TCMH Mountain Grove Medi-
cal Complex is Jennifer Groner, DO, a family med-
icine physician that provides complete obstetrical
care. Groner and Sara Openshaw, a family nurse
practitioner, also see patients of all ages for any
other healthcare concerns, and Arwood also pro-
FAITH
The Launch Student Center at Faith Fellowship in Houston will host youth group Wednesday nights as well as monthly rallies the first Saturday of each month. Some
of the features include a rock wall, basketball goal, pool and ping pong tables, hoverboards, full kitchen with snack bar and sophisticated lighting for worship.
church builds youth

center to reach teens
Area teenagers have a new place to build tunity to build this facility to reach our young strengthen their relationship with Jesus.”
friendships and their faith. people,” McNiell said. “Beyond the cool factor For more information, contact the church of-
The Launch Student Center opens this month of the building and fun features, we are excit- fice at 417-967-4680 or following Launch on Face-
on the campus of Faith Fellowship. The grand ed to have a place where students will begin or book, Twitter or Instagram at @launch54.
Wehr
opening is 6 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at the
church just past Dogs Bluff on Highway 17 west
of Houston.
The 40x80 facility features two levels and
many amenities for teenagers to worship, have
fun and hang out.
“This student center is going to be a huge
11311 Bus 60 - Mountain Grove, MO
800-419-0241
blessing to our church, community and teenag-
ers,” said Jeff McNiell, youth pastor at Faith Fel-
lowship. “Our vision was to build a place where
students can encounter Jesus, build faith-based
friendships and safely spend Saturday nights.”
The student center, McNiell said, will be used
each Wednesday night for the church’s youth
group, Launch Student Ministries. It will also
be open the first Saturday of each month for a
contemporary worship service and a place for
teenagers to hang out until midnight.
Among the features in the student center are:
Where we treat you like Family!
nRock climbing wall with two lanes.
nPool and ping pong tables.
nVideo gaming area with XBox One and Nin- SALES & SERVICE
tendo NES.
nRegulation basketball goal.
nHoverboards.
nFull kitchen for meals and snacks.
nLoft with homework area –– McNiell said an
after-school program will kick off next school
year –– and seating.
nStage with hazer and moving lights.
nOffice area to meet privately with students.
“We are grateful God has given us the oppor-
www.WehrAutos.com
FAITH
celebrate recovery • faith fellowship
Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered recovery program.
Dinner is served at 5:30 p.m., followed by the service at 6
p.m. and small group discussions at 7 p.m.
nAddress: 7804 Highway 17, Houston
nPhone: 417-967-4680
nWebsite: www.faithfellowshiphouston.org
nFacebook: www.facebook.com/faithfellowshipcr
nEmail: office@faithfellowshiphouston.org
celebrate recovery • life church

Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical and balanced program to
help you overcome hurts, hang-ups and habits. CR is for
adults, teens and children ages 5-12. CR at Life Church
is a safe place that strictly adheres to confidentiality and
anonymity. CR is structured in such a way where you can
come and take your mask off without fear of rejection, judg-
ment, condemnation or criticism.
nAddress: 1010 Indian Creek Trail, Houston
nPhone: 417-434-0684
nWebsite: www.celebraterecovery.com
nFacebook: www.facebook.com/crlifechurch
nEmail: beverlynhurd@gmail.com
FREE MONTHLY MEAL

A free community dinner is served from 5-7 p.m. the fourth
Thursday of each month at the Holy Cross Lutheran
Church. The church is located between Walmart and Texas
County Memorial Hospital on S. Sam Houston Blvd.
nAddress: 1419 S. Sam Houston Blvd., Houston
nPhone: 417-967-2204
mothers of preschoolers
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a group that meets
for mothers, by mothers, to learn more about the journey
through the adventure called motherhood. Meetings are the
third Wednesday of each month at Ozark Baptist Church.
nAddress: 17490 Ozark Rd, Houston
nPhone: 417-967-2940
nWebsite: www.ozarkbaptistchurch.com
nFacebook: www.facebook.com/mopsatozarkbaptistchurch
nEmail: office@ozarkbaptistchurch.com
WATCH HHS SPORTS.

ANYWHERE.
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FAITH
‘Faithful’ obedience
Singer, songwriter and
author follows God’s
lead in her work.
By DOUG DAVISON
Houston Herald
S
ometimes a musical career can blossom in
unexpected places under unexpected cir-
cumstances – even to those involved.
Kimberly Lowe is an attorney who runs a busy
law practice, managing her time to deal with cli-
ents in offices in both Houston and Waynesville.
But in a twist of fate that not that long ago she
didn’t see coming, she is also now a Christian
music singer, songwriter and author with two al-
bums, a single and a book to her credit under the
name, Kimberly Faith.
“The whole thing is kind of crazy,” Faith said.
“I never had any aspirations to do this – it’s just
something where God said, ‘you need to do this.’”
Music on Faith’s recordings albums, “Blessed
Liberty” and “Freedom’s Dream,” and the re-
cently released single, “Best Friend,” span a wide
range of styles, including modern country, rock
and roll, pop, folk, soul and even blues.
“I like a wide variety of music,” Faith said. “The Christian music singer and songwriter Kimberly Faith sings into a studio microphone during a recording session.
songs are all inspired by either situations or peo- Submitted photo
ple I know.”
Faith’s recordings come to fruition with major practice. She said she has no long-range plans for
help from Jacob Paul, owner of Inside Out Record- her musical endeavor, but will simply follow God’s
ing and Art Studio in Fayetteville, Ark. Not only is lead to wherever it takes her.
Paul an accomplished studio technician, he is also But if God does want her to take things up a
a talented musician capable of expertly playing notch or two, Faith isn’t concerned about being
numerous instruments, and he contributes guitar, ready.
keyboard, drums and even violin on Faith’s cuts. “If He wants me to do that, He’ll show me how to
“He’s amazing,” Faith said. “It got to where do it,” she said. “That won’t be a problem for Him.”
I would record a song with a melody and words, Faith’s book is titled “Essential Faith.” The idea
and I would tell him something like, ‘I want this to of producing it stemmed from her sharing daily
sound like a certain Hootie and the Blowfish song’ devotions with people close to her.
or something like that. Then he would arrange, “The goal is for people to be equipped to know
write and record the music and send that to me. God,” Lowe said. “I feel like when we find God, we
We would repeat that a few times and end up with find the best part of who we are. Why wouldn’t we
some pretty surprising results.” want to share that with people?”
Faith’s son Jon Lowe, and daughter, Grace Lowe “Essential Faith” features illustrations by Hous-
also contribute on recordings. She said watching ton Middle School students Lily Johnson and Ka-
her songs take shape is an almost surreal experi- tie Jo Chipps. Faith said she plans to have an au-
ence. dio version available in the future, and has already
“I find it fascinating,” Faith said. “I don’t even written a second book (to be published soon) and
know how it’s happening. I’d say it’s very much a about half of a third. The cover of Kimberly Faith’s second album, “Blessed
God thing.” “What that is is a miracle,” Faith said. “It’s all Liberty.” Learn more about Kimberly Faith and read
Faith completed an astounding and now re- God. I’m not extraordinary; the key is that God her devotionals on her website, www.kimberlyfaith.
nowned renovation project on an old building in can make any ordinary person do extraordinary org. Her work is available at Amazon.com, iTunes
downtown Houston that now houses her attorney things.” and CD Baby.
FAITH
After close to 70 years, local gospel
singing group releases first album
By DOUG DAVISON Indeed. Elmore is 88, Sutton is 83 and Edington
Houston Herald is 82, while Gourley is 67 and Stow (the group’s
ddavison@houstonherald.com first-ever female singer) is 53.
For decades, the Harmoniers became well
A local southern gospel group recently released known while frequently performing at various
its first album. You could say it’s been in the mak- festivals, events and churches around the region.
ing for a while. They also had a weekly radio program that ran The current set of Harmoniers have been together
The Harmoniers formed in 1948 and have seen on two local stations, and even appeared several since 2008. From left, Duane Sutton, Sandy Stow,
22 different members come and go since then. The times on “Ozarks Jubilee” on Springfield’s KY3 David Gourley, Wilburn Elmore and Omer Edington.
current lineup has been together since 2008, and TV. Submitted photo
includes original members Wilburn Elmore (bari- Former Harmoniers include the late Ernie Hays,
tone singer) and Duane Sutton (lead vocals) along who for 32 years was the organ player for the St.
with Sandy Stow (alto), Omer Edington (bass sing- Louis Cardinals. Despite the ages of some of the
er) and pianist David Gourley. members, the group still performs several times a
Their debut album, “Singing Through the month.
Ages,” features 10 classics. It was recorded in a “What I think is most amazing is that two of
studio in Gourley’s home, and mixed and mas- the original members are still going strong like
tered by Elmore’s son, Marty Elmore (who regu- they are, and you have three singers well over 80,”
larly performs and record gospel music with his Gourley said. “And they all sing right on pitch.”
wife, Patti). The inside cover of the Harmoniers’ CD in-
So why – after almost 70 years – did the Harmo- cludes the words, “While sharing the Gospel in
niers finally record some of their work? song, their concerts are more than just singing,
“All these years, we said we were going to do it,” but are truly a worship experience.” The Harmoniers prepare for a radio show in 1963.
Elmore said. “We finally said ‘boy, if we’re going “This has been such a joy,” Elmore said. “We’ve From left: Edna Yarnall, Duane Sutton, Max Burk-
to do it, we better do it now because some of us are traveled thousands of miles over the years; we’ve head, Wilburn Elmore and Willard “Lum” Elmore.
getting pretty old.’” met a lot of great people and ate a lot of great food.” Houston Herald archives photo
SPORTS
TAKING AIM
Shooting enthusiasts have a place to gather outside of Houston.
Competitors adjust and fire their rifles during the IBS 600-Yard Nationals at the Big Piney Sportsman’s Club near Houston in September 2016.
Story and photo by DOUG DAVISON • ddavison@houstonherald.com
W
hile it might be “under the radar” of ons. Now club membership includes more than schedule of activities and competitions – can be
many local residents, a whole lot of gun 200 people (men, women and children), including found on the club’s website, www.bigpineysport-
enthusiasts are well aware that the Big many from several surrounding states. mansclub.com. Roach can be reached by email at
Piney Sportsman’s Club exists and enjoy taking Lots of information – including how to join and a admin@bigpineysportsmansclub.com.
advantage of what the facility has to offer.
Located on Highway B a few miles east of Hous-
ton and west of Raymondville, the club boasts sev-
eral high-quality shooting venues, including a 600-
yard benchrest range (outfitted with 20 stations
and a roof) that is good enough to have hosted the
International Benchrest Shooters (IBS) 600-Yard
Nationals last September and the 2014 Missouri
State Championships. The club’s grounds also
include a variety of pistol ranges and shorter
rifle ranges. The package is worthy enough that
educational organizations like the Fort Leonard
Wood-based Tactical Analysis Group LLC (TAG)
uses the club to host training for law officers and
other gun-carrying professionals.
Whether it’s a “3-gun” match among club mem-
bers, a regional F-Class (prone position) match, or
something as big as an state championship, there’s
almost always something going on at the club each
weekend that draws people – and their wallets –
from other counties or states to the Houston area.
Club president Bob Roach likes to point out how
competitive events hosted at the facility have a
profound impact on the local economy.
“I don’t think people have a clue how much
money gets spent in the area by people who come
out here,” Roach said. “Lots of ammunition gets
bought at many local stores, as well as other
shooting supplies and things people need. And of
course, the motels, gas stations and restaurants all
benefit in a big way.”
The Big Piney Sportsman’s Club’s roots can
be traced to several decades ago when five avid
shotgun fans gathered weekly to fire their weap-
SPORTS
Hunting is big deal in the area

Every year, deer and turkey hunting seasons third during firearms season, with 3,562 deer
attract countless people to Texas County and checked.
Houston. This year’s spring turkey season began April
The Missouri Department of Conservation’s 17 and goes through May 7, and the fall firearms
designated deer firearms season and spring and turkey season is set for Oct. 1-31. Fall also fea-
fall turkey seasons are responsible for most of tures a pair of archery seasons: Sept. 15 through
the action. Hunters by the thousands (both lo- Nov. 10 and Nov. 22 through Jan. 18, 2018.
cal and from other areas near and far) annually A youth turkey season for hunters ages 6-15
get out into Texas County fields and forests in took place April 8-9.
search of deer during the November firearms The economic impact of hunting is significant
season, and myriad turkey hunters do the same all over Missouri. Based on the latest U.S. Fish
twice each year. and Wildlife Service census information from
As Texas County repeatedly ends up among 2011, Missouri has about 576,000 resident and
the top few Missouri counties in deer harvest non-resident hunters and hunting expenditures
numbers and posts strong results in every tur- in the state total about $907 million per year.
key season, the Houston economy gets a boost MDC annually conducts hunter education
as hunters flock to motels, restaurants, gas sta- training, with classes being led by agents in
tions and stores. locations all over the state, including the Hous-
This year’s MDC firearms deer season is set ton area. MDC also designates dozens of other
for Nov. 11-21. Other annual Missouri deer hunting seasons for various mammals and fowl.
hunting seasons include antlerless, alternative There is even an official possum season; this Houston resident Ethan Beavers displays an 11-point
methods and youth. year’s runs from Nov. 15 to Jan. 31, 2018. buck he killed during last year’s firearms deer season
Last year, Texas County finished third in Mis- For information about hunting in Missouri while hunting on property off of Highway B just east
souri in overall deer harvest numbers, with (including dates of all hunting seasons), log of Houston.
4,608 kills recorded. The county also placed onto www.huntfish.mdc.mo.gov. Photo by Doug Davison, Houston Herald
Ozark Heritage and the economy of nature

By CHRIS ELY at market. During this time of excessive wildlife highest in the state. With Texas County’s high
Missouri Department of Conservation commercialization, many of Missouri’s sought- deer and turkey harvest rates, hunters from all
Texas County agent after game populations dropped dramatically. over the United States visit our neck of the woods
In 1925, wildlife managers estimated Missouri’s with the intent to pursue these highly sought-af-
It’s hard to live in Texas County without being deer herd to be under 400 animals. Furthermore, ter game animals. Many of the hunters visiting
involved in Missouri’s outdoor heritage. during this time the wild turkey population was the county either hunt free public land or lease
Activities such as gathering wild edibles, fish- estimated to be at an all-time low. Clearly Mis- private property for a pricey fee. The tradition of
ing and hunting were once a necessary souri wildlife management was at a cross- hunting and fishing brings much economic sup-
way of life. Today these activities fit the roads. port to Texas County and to Missouri as a whole.
criteria of hobbies whereas years ago In 1935 nearly 100 motivated sportsmen These wildlife related recreations aid Missouri’s
they were necessary for survival and and concerned citizens met and formed economy by supporting jobs and promoting the
sustenance. the Conservation Federation of Missouri. sale of outdoors related equipment. Locally, tim-
One activity that stands out as a true The Conservation Federation in turn ber and forest products industry can’t be over-
Ozark tradition is gigging suckers. Early worked tirelessly to develop a proposal looked in the larger picture. All things consid-
Ozark residents burned pine knots held ELY for a new science-based Conservation ered, Missouri’s natural resources pay off with
in an iron cage over the river so to see Commission to be placed on the ballot for big dividends!
into the river while floating at night in their a constitutional amendment. On Nov. 3, 1936, Each year Missouri benefits from:
wooden plank jon boats. This tradition has car- voters approved the amendment with one of n$4 billion in economic support from fish and
ried through to today’s culture, but with today’s the largest margins to which any constitution- wildlife related recreation.
technological advancements of bright electric al amendment had passed. On July 1, 1937, the n$8 billion in economic support from the forest
lights and gas-powered aluminum jon boats. Conservation Commission took effect and with products industry.
If only the old timers of yesteryear could see it the Missouri Department of Conservation was n99,000 jobs supported by fish and wildlife re-
how gigging is done today – I’ll bet they would formed. Since this time, through numerous con- lated recreation and the forest products industry.
be amazed. These same old-timers relied on the servation initiatives, Missouri’s wildlife popula- n$507 million of state and local taxes generat-
wildlife much more than we do today and as tions have made dramatic rebounds from the deed by fish and wildlife related recreation spend-
early settlement populations grew in number, pleted populations of years past to the plentiful ing and the forest products industry.
wildlife populations began to decline. By the late populations we see today. For further information regarding conser-
1800’s and early 1900’s sustenance hunting was Today Texas County’s deer and turkey popu- vation-related topics or to report wildlife viola-
overtaken by market hunting where large quan- lation is considered to be one of the very best tions, call me at 417-260-2865 or agent Jeff Crites
tities of game animals were harvested and sold in Missouri with harvest totals often being the at 417-260-2855.
SPORTS
THINGS TO DO SWIMMING POOL YOUTH BASKETBALL
Featuring a kiddie pool as well as a large pool with low and The hoops season kicks off the year for students in the
MIGHTY MITES high dives, the city’s swimming pool is open noon until 6 p.m. third through sixth grades. Teams –– divided by male and
Players in grades 3-6 compete in the YMCA league with the from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Admission is $3 per day. female –– play a regular-season schedule that includes
communities of Houston, Cabool, Mountain Grove, Willow Individual and family passes are also available. Parties can opponents from other communities before an end-of-the-
Springs and Mountain View. Practices begin in early August be scheduled through the city. season tournament. A coed league for pre-K through second
before a six-game schedule that concludes with a bowl game. nAddress: N. King St. grade athletes begins in November and concludes before
nPhone: 417-260-0247 nPhone: 417-967-2273 Christmas. Teams play on smaller courts and 8-foot goals.
OAKWOOD GOLF CLUB SWIM TEAM YOUTH SOCCER

A nine-hole course located about three miles east of Houston A member of the Ozark Area Swim Team Association, the The first of two soccer seasons kicks off in late March for
off of Highway B. The course features a full service pro shop, Houston swim team is available to children and adults of any players ages 4-12. All teams are coed. The fields and goal
and memberships are available. age who can swim the length of the pool. Sign-ups begin in size grow with each division beginning with U6 and advancing
nAddress: 7453 Country Club Lane, Houston, Mo., 65483 May. The season is held in June and July and concludes with through U8, U10 and U12. The U8 division and above hosts
nPhone: 417-967-3968 a district swim meet. games and travels to other communities.
nWebsite: www.theoakwoodgolfclub.com nPhone: 417-260-1557
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS
OPTI-FITNESS CENTER WALKING TRAILS
Owned and operated by the Houston Optimist Club, There are more than 10 miles of sidewalks and walking BIG PINEY SPORTMAN’S CLUB
the facility features numerous pieces of fitness-related trails in the City of Houston. Included are paved trails at A shooting range with rifle, handgun and skeet and trap
equipment. Access is available any time, any day. Emmett Kelly Park and around the airport leading to the facilities, highlighted by a 20-station 600-yard covered bench
nAddress: 402 S. First St., Houston, Mo., 65483 new Rutherford Park. There are seven routes for walking rest range. The club often hosts local, regional, state and
nPhone: 417-967-8149 enthusiasts that cover five miles of trails. national competitions sanctioned by International Benchrest
nWebsite: www.opt-fitness.com nPhone: 417-967-3348 Shooters (IBS). Memberships are available.
nFacebook: Opti-Fitness nE-mail: downtownhouston@houstonmo.org nAddress: 18012 Highway B, Houston
nWebsite: www.houstonmo.org nPhone: 573-674-4633
PARKS nWebsite: www.bigpineysportsmansclub.com
There are three parks –– Emmett Kelly, West Side and YOUTH BASEBALL & SOFTBALL nEmail: roachw@wildblue.net
Rutherford –– that feature many activities for individuals Leagues begin in mid-May and conclude in early July.
and families. The biggest, Emmett Kelly, has slides and Players begin playing coed t-ball from ages 4-6 and advance OPTIMIST CLUB
swings for children, a walking trail, creek running through to coed coach toss from ages 7-8. From there, male players The not-for-profit organization focuses on the welfare of
the park and disc golf. West Side has two tennis courts, through age 12 play baseball and female players of the same youth and families in Texas County with an emphasis in the
sand volleyball and a swimming pool. Rutherford features ages participate in softball. Both baseball and softball teams Houston community. The group operates a state-licensed
two youth soccer field, picnic tables and recently installed compete against other communities. daycare and after school program for elementary students. It
athletic equipment. nPhone: 417-967-3348 also runs the 24-hour fitness facility Opti Fitness.
nAddresses: Emmett Kelly (S. Sam Houston Blvd.); West nWebsite: www.houstonmo.org Address: 402 S. First St., Houston
Side (N. King St.); Rutherford (Westwood Dr.). nFacebook: HoustonMoParksAndRecs nEmail: houstonoptimistclub@yahoo.com
nFacebook: Houston-Optimist-Club

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HOUSTON

May Written and produced by the

Guide to the inside

About this section

Roper Hamilton, center, and the rest of the kindergarteners at the

WEBSITES WITH INFORMATION

improvements nOffice: Houston City Hall

WARD I ALDERMAN OTHER CITY HALL EMPLOYEES

In the heat of the battle

ABOVE: Members of the City of Houston Fire Depart-

LEFT: Several Houston firefighters spray water on a

The crown jewel of the City of Houston Fire Department’s

HOUSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT ROSTERS

The Houston Rural Fire Department’s new rescue vehicle

BUSINESS TYPE EMPLOYEES

4-H clubs active in Houston

Search for news

COMMUNITY BETTERMENT AND

Mike Woolsey and Sons

Chamber of commerce serves

CHAMBER’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEMBERSHIP

nThe Houston Police Department has two reserve officers: B.J.

Get the latest news, sports scores, photos,

COMING Renovations continue as

TO LIFE historic Melba Theatre this

Houston Community Foundation

Houston Garden Club

Houston Lions Club

Mary S. Chapter #126

Ozarks Older Iron Club

Piney River Quilt Guild

HOUSTON R-1 SCHOOL DISTRICT

HOUSTON HIGH SCHOOL

HOUSTON MIDDLE SCHOOL

TEXAS COUNTY LIBRARY

TEXAS COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART AND HISTORY

HOUSTON EDUCATION FOUNDATION

HOUSTON CITIZENS FOR EDUCATION

HOUSTON HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI

TEXAS COUNTY RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Grow it, eat it

HOUSTON GARDEN CLUB

OZARKS OLDER IRON CLUB

Numerous varieties of TEXAS COUNTY YOUNG

One of the busiest groups of volunteers in the

Officials at the Pregnancy Resource Center of

At Shelter Insurance®, we’re proud to have

TCMH provides primary care services

church builds youth

celebrate recovery • life church

FREE MONTHLY MEAL

WATCH HHS SPORTS.

Story and photo by DOUG DAVISON • ddavison@houstonherald.com

Hunting is big deal in the area

Ozark Heritage and the economy of nature

OAKWOOD GOLF CLUB SWIM TEAM YOUTH SOCCER

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