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(May 15, 2008 – Springfield, MO) One hundred and thirty-six golfers on 34 teams, along with more than 60 corporate, business and individual sponsors, will be participating in the Council of Churches of the Ozarks 15th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament tomorrow, Friday, May 16, at Rivercut Golf Course. Tournament Emcee, Tom Trtan of KOLR-10, and Dr. Dave Hockensmith, Executive Director of the Council of Churches, will kick-off the 4-person scramble with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The tournament has a goal to raise $54,000 that will support the nine operating agencies of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks. The tournament will conclude with an awards ceremony and a Big Ball Blast. Golf balls that have been pre-numbered and entered in the Ball Blast at $10 per ball will be dropped from “on high,” and the golf ball in the hole, or nearest to the hole, will split the pot with the Council of Churches. Many other games and prizes, including hole-in-one prizes of $10,000 and a 2008 Honda Accord, make the Council of Churches Golf Tournament one of the most popular fundraising events in the Ozarks. Each year, the Council of Churches of the Ozarks serves more than 100,000 of the most vulnerable people in the Ozarks through nine operating agencies, each one dedicated to improving the quality of life in our community in the name of Jesus Christ. For more information, please contact Rev. Mark Struckhoff, Director of Advancement for the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, 417-862-3586.
Springfield, Mo.— While Convoy of Hope continues to respond to the tornados that ripped through the Midwest, the extreme crisis in Myanmar escalates and Convoy of Hope is doing its part to help people in need. A Convoy of Hope team is managing its Myanmar disaster response effort from Bangkok, Thailand. After clearing initial authority inspections, two truckloads of supplies were sent to in-country partners. Upon arrival, these supplies will be distributed to victims of the cyclone. Six additional loads (approximately 240,000 lbs.) are currently being staged. The loads consist of protein-enriched rice casserole (donated by Feed My Starving Children of Minneapolis, Minn.) and other nonperishable food items and supplies. FedEx generously donated the transportation of three loads of relief supplies: 10,000 water filtration units, five-gallon buckets, latex gloves, facemasks, and more. Along with a primary partner, a long-term staging area for the recovery effort is being established in Bangkok for the continued receipt and distribution of food, water, water decontamination tablets, water filtration units, and medical supplies to treat dysentery and diarrhea. With knowledge gained through the tsunami and Katrina responses, Convoy of Hope leadership is anticipating the magnitude of the long-term recovery needs. A regional response team will most likely be assigned to Bangkok to oversee ongoing activities and partner relationships for at least the next four-to-six months. Convoy of Hope is known for its efficiency, receiving excellent ratings from nationally recognized charity watchdog groups. Charity Navigator gave it their "coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management" and the Independent Charities of America and Local Independent Charities of America awarded it the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence, for meeting the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness. Fewer than 5% of charities in America meet or exceed these standards. Corporate and private partnerships allow Convoy of Hope to turn every donated dollar to between $5-8 of actual relief product. Please help Convoy of Hope in its response to this and other disaster-affected areas. For more information or to donate, visit www.ConvoyofHope.org.
May 15, 2008 (Springfield, MO)…Wal-Mart with Sam’s Club is helping the Care To Learn Fund move closer to reaching a revised first year goal of $300,000. Today at a news conference, Carrie Thum McKnight, Senior Manager for Wal-Mart Public Affairs & Government Relations and Skip Tinney, Wal-Mart Springfield Market Manager, presented a $50,000 check to Doug Pitt and the Brad Pitt/Jim D. Morris Care to Learn Fund. Successes for the Care To Learn Fund to this point are: • Wal-Mart/Sam’s Club has donated $50,000 with a 1 to 1 match; $25,000 of that match goal has been raised with a challenge to the community to raise the additional $25,000. The Brad Pitt/Jim D. Morris Care to Learn Fund was established by Doug Pitt, the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, Jim D. Morris, and an anonymous donor. The Care to Learn Fund provides support for Springfield Public School students to meet basic needs and help them to experience their education to the fullest. There are three primary student needs that have been identified for the fund to focus on – Hunger, Health and Hygiene. The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools will be responsible for managing and distributing the Care To Learn funds. “This has been a very exciting sixty days,” comments Doug Pitt. “This fund has generated a great deal of excitement and community involvement. The community has become engaged in this project and realized our school students are in need. They have shown their support through their generosity”. Comments Nancy Fazzino, “We are so glad to have Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club as a partner in Care To Learn. Their involvement will play a major role in sustaining support for the Care To Learn Fund.” A news conference was held Thursday, May 15, 2008 at Jarrett Middle school announcing Wal-Mart/Sam’s Club as partners in the Care To Learn Fund. For additional information on the Brad Pitt/Jim D. Morris Care to Learn Fund, visit www.CareToLearnFund.com or www.Foundation4sps.org. ### Previous background information from April 2, 2008: Doug Pitt was moved into action following a presentation during a Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce board meeting given by the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, discussing the challenges that too many students face each and every day – challenges as simple as sharing one toothbrush among 3 siblings; not having shoes that fit or hygiene products so they can attend class. These challenges along with numerous others, can cause children to become uninterested in school, self-conscious and begin to strip away self respect. Following the meeting and a discussion with SPS Superintendent Dr. Norm Ridder, Pitt developed a plan that would have an immediate impact on the issue. Pitt made a call to his brother Brad, both graduates of Springfield Public Schools. Doug discussed with Brad the situation facing Springfield Public School students and recruited assistance from the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, established by Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, in support of humanitarian efforts worldwide. From that call, the Care To Learn Fund was born. Following his initial discussion with brother Brad, Doug then enlisted Jim D. Morris, a Springfield businessman and philanthropist. Morris also inspired by Doug Pitt’s passion for this initiative, came on board matching the donation from the Jolie-Pitt Foundation. Pitt and Morris then proposed that this become a community-wide 3-1 challenge match in order to increase awareness of the need and to create sustainability for the Care To Learn Fund. The fund was rounded out by a third donor who asked to remain anonymous Pitt, needing a management and distribution piece for the fund, selected the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools. The foundation had all the pieces in place to enable fund management, acceptance of individual donations and most importantly having the ability to distribute the funds to for those children that need them – immediately. School principals, counselors and nurses will identify students in need and make the request to the Foundation.
The Bearded Clam Lounge & Eatery, located on Hwy 13 just north of the bridge in Kimberling City, will host a benefit auction and party on Saturday, June 14, to raise funds to support the Springfield office of the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Missouri. “We are thrilled that the M-Dock Band will entertain the crowd at 7:00 p.m. on June 14 for our benefit to help Make-A-Wish,” said owner Beth Whitaker. “We continue to encourage Kimberling City and southwest Missouri businesses to donate gift certificates, goods and services for our benefit auction,” added Whitaker. The Springfield office of the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Missouri grants the wishes of children who struggle with life-threatening medical conditions across a 44-county area of southwest and southern Missouri. “Special events like the one hosted by The Bearded Clam are crucial to our ability to pay for the wishes of these brave and courageous children,” said Jackie Barger, Make-A-Wish Program Center Director in Springfield.
Relief Provided to Cyclone Victims in Myanmar and Tornado Victims in the Midwest Springfield, Mo.— Convoy of Hope is responding to the tornados that ripped through the Midwest and to the cyclone that hit Myanmar. Following the stream of tornadoes that killed 22, Convoy of Hope is delivering food, water and cleaning supplies to Newton County, Mo., Pitcher, Okla., and also Pine Bluff, Ark., to serve the community of Stuttgart, which remains under a boil order. More deliveries will take place in the coming days as requests for assistance mount. Convoy of Hope disaster relief personnel are in Bangkok, Thailand, along with other non-governmental organizations. A staging area has been established for the distribution of food, water, water decontamination tablets, tents, and medical supplies to treat dysentery and diarrhea. Convoy of Hope is also poised to send protein-fortified rice blends, boats, masks, Meals Ready to Eat (MRE's), and more. FedEx is partnering with Convoy of Hope to deliver 10,000 individual water purifiers and other humanitarian aid. Reports from partners inside Myanmar indicate that approximately 300 refugee camps have been established and are accommodating 250,000 people. According to Oxfam, another 1.5 million people could die from waterborne diseases unless more aid can reach devastated regions. Gasoline, meanwhile, is selling for $12 a gallon. Convoy of Hope President Hal Donaldson called on people to give generously so more deaths can be prevented. "Every day is critical to their survival," he said. "Every donation can save a life." Please help Convoy of Hope respond to victims of these worldwide natural disasters. Convoy of Hope is known for its efficiency, receiving excellent ratings from nationally recognized charity watchdog groups. Charity Navigator gave it their "coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management" and the Independent Charities of America and Local Independent Charities of America awarded it the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence, for meeting the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness. Fewer than 5% of charities in America meet or exceed these standards. Corporate and private partnerships allow Convoy of Hope to turn every donated dollar to between $5-8 of actual relief product. For more information or to donate, visit www.ConvoyofHope.org
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in Springfield launches lifejacket campaign
On the eve of “National Safe Boating Week,” prominent water safety experts say just putting your child in any old lifejacket isn’t enough. “Fit to Float” educates people on the importance of a proper fitting lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) that is in good condition. Old, sun-faded, waterlogged, leaky or ill-fitting lifejackets should be replaced, according to Commodore Ed Sweeney of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Department of Homeland Security. Sweeney says you need to check lifejackets for wear and buoyancy at least once a year. “Lifejackets don’t’ last forever, “ Sweeney said. “Truth is, lifejackets get worn out and lose their effectiveness. Relying on a marginal lifejacket is gambling with your life.” This is the second year of “Fit to Float,” which was created by Stearns Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of lifejackets. The campaign features a used lifejacket exchange program at Bass Pro Shops around the country. Last year the campaign collected more than 1,700 old and ill fitting lifejackets. The goal this year is to replace 5,000 lifejackets. “A poor fitting lifejacket can sometimes do more harm than good,” Sweeney said. “Lifejackets that are too big will push up around your face and prevent you from breathing. Lifejackets that are too small won’t keep you afloat. Also, lifejackets meant for adults do not work for children.” U.S. Coast Guard Statistics (2006 – most recent): The public can trade-in old or ill-fitting lifejackets Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18 at the Bass Pro Shop store located at 1935 South Campbell Avenue in Springfield and receive a discount off the purchase of a new light, less restrictive Stearns® lifejacket or Sospenders® inflatable lifejacket. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Stearns Safety Team will be on hand during store hours to demonstrate the proper fit of a lifejacket, discuss the tell-tale signs of wear and tear on a lifejacket and answer all other boating or water-related safety questions. To learn more about Stearns, visit www.stearnsinc.com
The public is invited to attend the May 13 meeting of the White River Group Sierra Club on “The Case for More Wilderness in Missouri” at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center at 7 p.m. Scheff has worked for many years in Missouri to protect public forests and was the organizer of the 2007 Heartwood Forest Council, one of the largest annual gathering of forest activists from across the eastern, central and southern United States. The White River Group of the Ozark Chapter of the Sierra Club includes more than 900 members of the national Sierra Club in southwest Missouri. The Group offers a program for members and the interested public at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. The Group also offers outings and the opportunity to become involved in regional, state and local conservation and environmental issues.
Appetite for Life's program Play 4 Life is celebrating it's conclusion for this spring session at Campbell Elementary. The ‘Play for Life” programs’ purpose is to encourage behavior changes in 2nd, 3rd , and 4th grade students attending schools in Springfield. This program focused on 27 at-risk youth and their families in one of three 8-week sessions. We would like to invite you all to attend our celebration, meet our families and see the results of the hard work by the Play 4 Life staff and the accomplishments of the participating children and parents. We will be presenting the children with a special prize gift to reward them for their dedication to learning about making positive life choices for nutrition and activity. The Neighborhood Y will be on site to provide the families with a healthy meal, bounce house and fun activities. Appetite for Life was developed to motivate and mobilize the Ozarks region to take small steps towards a healthier lifestyle. This program is a part of the national non-profit organization, America on the Move, which has the mission of improving the quality of life – for individuals, families, communities and society. Appetite for Life is a team effort and includes the Greene County Health Department, CoxHealth Systems; St. John’s Regional Health Center, Springfield School District, Greene County, Springfield Chamber of Commerce and the Ozarks Regional YMCA. As a valuable community resource, Ozarks Regional YMCA is proud to participate in YMCA Activate America, a national effort to help Americans live healthier lives. YMCAs serve 20.2 million people, including 9.5 million youth, through a broad range of community and health and wellness programs for over 150 years. The Ozarks Regional YMCA has served the community for over 119 years and has over 20,000 members in the association to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. The Ozarks Regional YMCA consists of seven branches including, The Ozark Mountain Branch in Hollister, Bolivar, Monett/Cassville, Camp Wakonda, Child Care branches and two facilities in Springfield.
Springfield, MO – May 18, 2008: Bailey’s American Grille, located at 319 W. Walnut, is challenging Springfield Bartenders to put their pouring skills to the test for cash and prizes to benefit the Developmental Center of the Ozarks. Bartenders are invited to participate in Bailey’s first annual Iron Bartender Challenge to name the hands-down best bartender in Springfield, MO! Do you have flare? Do you have speed? Have you put together the best, one-of-a-kind cocktail ever? Then sign up today! Contestants must be at least 21 years of age, submit a short biography of their personal and bartending history, and submit a $50.00 entry fee with registration form by May 15, 2008. The entry fee includes admission to the event, a commemorative Iron Bartender t-shirt, food during the event, and a $10.00 Bailey’s Gift Certificate. The event will be broken down into three rounds. Round One will consist of three separate parts: a blind-tasting of five beers and five wines; a short exam of twenty questions relating to alcohol and bartending; and a speed round. Round Two is the “Entertainment Round”. Contestants will be required to spend at least three minutes and not more than five minutes entertaining the judges. Bottle flair, jokes, bar tricks, etc… can be used in this allotted time. The final round will be done “Iron Chef” style. The contestants will be given a “secret ingredient” and thirty minutes to create a combination of one shot, one mixed drink served on the rocks, and a martini served straight up. This ingredient could be anything. “The Bartender Challenge is about bringing people downtown for a fun and exciting event to benefit the DCO (Developmental Center of the Ozarks),” explains Bailey’s owner/operator Shawn Gott. “With so many great bars and restaurants in Springfield we feel like there is a lot of talent out there so that should make for a great competition.” Event planners for the Bartender Challenge are working with Club 220, located at 220 W. Walnut, for a dual event. Club 220 is hosting a DJ competition to benefit the Leukemia Foundation. The request has been made to close Walnut Street from Patton Street to Campbell Avenue to give this event a real festival feel. There will be activities on the street and local retailers have been invited to participate as well. The festivities begin at 1:00 pm downtown. Contest information and application materials are available at Bailey’s American Grille and can also be found at www.itsalldowntown.com/events/2527.
The 3rd Annual C-Street Jam, a festival spotlighting live music and the revitalization of the Commercial Street historic business district, will take place Saturday, May 10, 2008, from 6:30 to 10 p.m., at the historic Commercial Street Footbridge, located at Commercial Street and Jefferson Avenue. The event headliner is a local music group, Jah Roots, that will perform at 8:30 p.m. Live music begins at 6:30 p.m. by Jam Room, and then continues at 7:30 p.m. with 77 Jefferson, followed by Jah Roots. Gates open at 6 p.m. Advance $8 tickets are available at Hoover Music Company, located in Downtown Springfield at Jefferson Avenue and Elm Street, through Friday, May 9, 2008, or at the gate for $10 More than 20 new businesses have opened on Commercial Street in the past 18 months, including two celebrating their one-year anniversary; Askinosie Chocolate and Big Momma’s Coffee and Espresso Bar. Peabody’s restaurant, Lindberg’s and Paradise Bar & Grill also are available to add to the dining and entertainment options on historic C-Street. Professional Massage Training Center recently graduated its 50th class and is preparing to dramatically expand its presence on the street. For complete event details, visit www.itsalldowntown.com
For 20 years, Habitat Springfield has partnered with Greene County residents in need to help provide more safe, decent and affordable housing opportunities. The Habitat for Humanity family selection process is one of the most important tasks the affiliate undertakes. The integrity and credibility of the Habitat project depends on a fair, objective and nondiscriminatory family selection policy and process. Family selection volunteers must work within the Habitat criteria and legal standard set forth by the Federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act. Criteria used to select an individual or family to partner with Habitat and buy a Habitat home are based on need, the ability to pay a low-cost, no-interest mortgage payment, and willingness to partner with Habitat Springfield. More information about volunteering or becoming a Habitat homeowner is available at www.habitatspringfieldmo.org or by calling Habitat Springfield at (417) 829-4001.
(Jefferson City, Mo.) The 2008 Special Olympics Missouri State Summer Games Management Team (GMT) has been formed and the planning process for this statewide event is off and rolling! The GMT has been busy, considering this is the first year the event has been held in the Springfield community. The State Summer Games will take place May 28-30. This state-level event, featuring athletics, aquatics, bocce, soccer and powerlifting competition, will bring approximately 2,000 athletes and coaches to the city. Competition will take place on the Missouri State University and Drury University campuses. Special Olympics Missouri holds four statewide events throughout the year. Volunteers from each host community come together to form a Games Management Team (GMT) for each event. This group volunteers their time and talents to plan each aspect of the event, from competition to Opening Ceremonies to athlete meals and much more. Their efforts allow SOMO athletes the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits participation in sports can bring. Opportunities are available to sponsor this event, where more than 4,000 competitors and fans are expected to be in attendance. Sponsorships offer very valuable marketing benefits to companies and organizations. For a complete sponsorship package, please contact Chris Lindsey, 887-7766 or lindsey@somo.org. To date, the following businesses have signed on as sponsors: Cox Health, Springfield News-Leader, KSPR, Clear Channel Radio and Knights of Columbus.
More than 600 volunteer positions are available. Volunteers play a critical role in this event. From set up and tear down to timekeepers and awards presenters, volunteers help the event be successful for our athletes. To find out more about volunteering, visit www.somo.org/fan or contact Trish Lutz at 800-846-2682 or lutz@somo.org. Special Olympics Missouri is a year-round program of sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with mental disabilities. More than 15,000 athletes participate in 19 Olympic-type sports throughout the state. Special Olympics provides people with mental disabilities continuing opportunities to develop fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy as they participate in the sharing of gifts and friendship with other athletes, their families and the community.
A project of the Musgrave Foundation SPRINGFIELD, MO, May 6, 2008 - The Lighthouse, a project of the Musgrave Foundation, is pleased to invite the community to celebrate the success of the program on May 13 at 10:00am. Mayor Tom Carlson will be on hand to open the doors to the child & family development program. Tours of the facility will be available until 11:30. The Lighthouse is located at 2548 N. Fremont, inside the Faith Tabernacle Church. The Lighthouse Child & Family Development Center (LCFDC) is a faith-based child & family development program for low-income, Christian families with children 0-5. The collaboration between Faith Tabernacle Church and the Musgrave Foundation provides a nurturing childcare environment at no charge to qualified families that participate in the family development program and continue to demonstrate progress toward self-sufficiency. The Lighthouse was created in response to the Mayor’s Commission on Children and its call for community action in supporting the strengthening of children and families in the Springfield community. The Musgrave Foundation had the vision to create a program that will assist Christian families in their efforts to become informed, self-sufficient members of our community. This program increases the potential success of Springfield children and families by taking a holistic and systematic approach to the opportunities and barriers families face in our society today. This innovative approach addresses the needs of the at-risk child as an individual, as a member of a family, and that family as a member of our community. The Lighthouse program focuses on Christian character-building through experiential learning opportunities that are focused on increasing community and social awareness in participating children and families. The LCFDC is founded on belief that the success of the child becomes the success of the community. “The Lighthouse Child & Family Development Center addresses a critical area of need in our community. The long term benefits of encouraging families to raise children with character, competence, and faith is immeasurable,” said Springfield Mayor Tom Carlson. “Not only does the Lighthouse program provide quality childcare that families can afford, but it also provides extensive support to families through parent education, case management, individualized goal-setting, and other services in collaboration with multiple local agencies.” Both community and financial support have been integral to the Lighthouse’s success. The Lighthouse Child & Family Development Center has enjoyed local support, private donations, corporate funding, and has received several grants to help establish the facility.
Cyclone damage is of tsunami-proportions Springfield, Mo.—Additional Convoy of Hope disaster relief personnel are departing for Myanmar to respond to a cyclone that ravaged parts of the country. An assessment team just returned from the region and reported massive destruction and widespread human need. When residents emerged from their shelters after the twelve-hour storm, they found roads were completely washed away or made impassible by large debris. Most areas remain without electricity, clean water and phone service. The damage is of tsunami proportions with unconfirmed estimates of 20,000-50,000 people dead, another 40,000 unaccounted for, and 3 million people remaining homeless. With the worldwide food crisis, food conditions in Myanmar were already strained. Kenton Moody, international director, said Convoy of Hope will continue to monitor conditions to determine when large quantities of food and supplies can be shipped and delivered in country. There is an immediate need for cash, he said, in order to provide victims with life¹s essential needs – food, clean water and shelter – that will be purchased from neighboring areas. "Convoy of Hope is about helping people and we want to be sensitive to the people and their culture," Moody says. "We want to do whatever we can to help relieve the immediate suffering of survivors with what will be a long-term recovery.” "The needs today and two weeks from today are far different," Moody says. "With a limited amount of food and hygiene, people are hungry today, but in two weeks it could be a matter of starvation and rampant disease." Please help Convoy of Hope in its response to Myanmar and other international disasters. For more information or to donate, visit www.ConvoyofHope.org.
Springfield, Mo. – Have fun in May by celebrating Mother’s Day or adopting a loving animal in need of a good home. Celebrate Mom at the Zoo Celebrate Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, at Dickerson Park Zoo. All mothers receive free zoo admission that day, and the first 300 mothers also receive a bedding plants from Nixa Hardware. Signs throughout the zoo will congratulate animal mothers from the past year. FOZ-member moms will receive a 20-percent discount on home décor and jewelry in the Safari Trading Company gift shop. Surprise your mom with her favorite animal. Mother’s Day adoption packages are available, supporting the zoo’s conservation efforts. Adoption packages begin at $30 and include a personalized adoption certificate, a color photograph, two one-day admission passes to Dickerson Park Zoo and a free subscription to the WildTimes magazine. “Meet Your Best Friend at the Zoo” “Meet your best friend” at Dickerson Park Zoo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18. Your new “best friend” may be one of many animals currently cared for by one of the shelters Dickerson Park Zoo has invited to participate. Shelter representatives will be located at the parking field of the Missouri Entertainment & Event Center (Ozarks Empire Fairgrounds). Fees associated with animal adoptions vary by shelter. If you do adopt an animal, it is not allowed in the zoo. Activities throughout the day include pet responsibility education, zookeeper chats, a discussion on why exotic animals do not make good pets, the zoo’s ADOPT an Animal program, and a supply drive for the shelters. Zoo guests are encouraged to bring supplies such as food, treats, food and water bowls, leashes, and other essentials needed for proper pet care. Shelters are often low on supplies and donations are gladly accepted. Dickerson Park Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-12. For more information visit the zoo’s Web site, www.dickersonparkzoo.org, or call 417-864-1800.
Free Wheelchair Mission local "Walk for Mobility" Event to be hosted by Jones YMCA Walk for Mobility Event will honor local residents who did not let being confined to a wheelchair stop them from making the community, thus the world, a better place, as well as raise funds to give the gift of mobility to others. DEAD LINE FOR AWARD NOMINEE SUBMISSION: May 7, 2008 Springfield, MO, April 29, 2008: On Sunday, May 18, 2008 the Free Wheelchair Mission's Walk for Mobility Event at the Jones YMCA location on Republic Road in Springfield will begin at 2:00 pm. The Free Wheelchair Mission Event will include both a walk to raise funds to give the gift of mobility and the presentation of the "Ability through Mobility Award." Free Wheelchair Mission Honors Locals Who Make a Difference with Ability through Mobility Award Nominations are being accepted now. Ability through Mobility Award Nomination Guideline: CONTACT:
New Website allows Missourians to explore past with the click of a button Jefferson City, MO - Secretary of State Robin Carnahan launched the Missouri Digital Heritage website last night at a public program held at the James C. Kirkpatrick State Information Center. Supreme Court Judge Stephen Limbaugh was also on hand to welcome historians, legislators, staff and the public who attended the event. The Missouri Digital Heritage Initiative makes millions of historical documents available to the public and connects users to dozens of Missouri's local libraries, universities and cultural institutions through one searchable destination. Carnahan proposed this landmark initiative in 2007 to further Missourians' access to information about the history of people and places in the state. The initiative passed through the state legislature last April, and the development of the website has been underway for the past year. Missourians can log onto the website at www.MissouriDigitalHeritage.com. "Missouri has a rich and varied history, and this website provides every Missourian unprecedented access to the stories, snapshots and records of our state and its people," Carnahan said. "I am excited that Missourians and the wider online community can piece together their past through a single website." The Secretary of State's office houses both the state archives and state library and much of the content is hosted directly from these collections. The Missouri state archives is the official repository for state documents of permanent historic value and is the definitive source of information on Missouri state and governmental history. The state library provides hundreds of grants per year through LSTA (Library Services & Technology Act) funds distributed by the federal Institute of Museum & Library Services. Many collections included in the Missouri Digital Heritage Initiative are made possible through this grant program. Just for Fun: http://thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org/lochist/spfd1889/index.htm
Springfield, Mo. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says that the first 72 hours immediately after a disaster are up to you. Yet, a recent survey by the American Red Cross found that seven out of 10 families in the U.S. are not prepared to care for themselves for the first 72 hours following a disaster. The statistic is sobering and raises the question, how can families prepare? The new H.O.P.E. Begins Here (Helping Others Prepare for Emergencies) initiative from Convoy of Hope aims to answer that question in communities across the country, starting right here in the Ozarks. A family preparedness festival is the final component of the H.O.P.E. Begins Here campaign that has been raising local disaster preparedness awareness. The festival will be held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 3, at the Springfield Expo Center. Advance tickets are free at any participating O'Reilly Auto Parts store, at Convoy of Hope, Starbucks corporate stores, or can be downloaded from www.KSPR.com. Admission is $3 at the door, but free for senior citizens and children 12-and-under. Free parking is available in the Car Park courtesy of AMPCO. At the Family Festival, various service providers will inform residents on how to prepare themselves, their families and their belongings for a variety of potential disasters, while also increasing familiarity with county emergency plans. Chef Chadwick Isom will demonstrate how to preserve meat when the power goes out, as well as a variety of disaster-time recipes. Door prizes, including weather radios and a drawing for 3,500-watt generators, will be given away while supplies last. The community-wide festival is truly an event for the entire family. While parents gain life-saving knowledge, inflatable activities, games and prizes will keep children entertained. Louie, the Springfield Cardinals mascot, will also be on hand to meet the children. Festival sponsors, including the City of Springfield, Servpro of Springfield/Greene County and the University Plaza Convention Center, invite their neighbors to take advantage of this opportunity to learn how to better ensure the safety of their family, friends and neighbors. Convoy of Hope has created the H.O.P.E Begins Here campaign to encourage ongoing disaster preparedness collaboration in an effort to create a more resilient community. Family Preparedness Festival
To Leave The Car Behind at Least One Day --- During the Week of May 12-16 "Rally in Patton Alley" Partially car-free ArtWalk - 6 - 9 p.m., Friday, May 2 Ozark Greenways is partnering with First Friday ArtWalk downtown for "Rally in Patton Alley" on from 6 - 9 p.m., Friday, May 2, to promote "Bike, Bus, Walk Week". We encourage everyone to get to ArtWalk by bike, then park it with us. Ozark Greenways will be closing off Patton Alley to display some fun art bikes, have bike parking, funky bikes, city bus bike rack demos and more (like free Andy's Frozen Custard!) ñ all to highlight registration for the main event. The main event, is our annual challenge during "Bike, Bus, Walk Week", which will be May 12-16. Everyone is encouraged to come out and help us create a more bicycle/pedestrian friendly Springfield! Ozark Greenways has a fun way for people to make a difference in the Springfield community, by "challenging" as many people as possible to be creative and leave the car behind at least one day to get to work or school during "Bike, Bus, Walk Week", May 12-16. This can be achieved by biking, taking the bus, carpooling or some combination of these choices. And Ozark Greenways wants to serve as a resource to help teach how this can be done safely and enjoyably. There are many benefits to alternative transportation, not just the higher costs of gas these days, but also utilizing the commuting time to also get some healthy exercise and prepare for a more production day. Many businesses realize the benefits of having healthy employees perform better, tend to stay in their job longer, are absent from work less and cost the company less in health care expense. "Wellness programs are a proven and cost effective way for a business to lower its total cost of benefits and to increase the health and productivity of its employees," says Anthum Deal, wellness director from Ollis & Company. He spends his time helping companies set up wellness programs in order to reap the benefits. Participation in Bike, Bus, Walk Week is a great way to promote company wellness, team building and having fun. Plus, it doesn't hurt that this participation helps our environment and improves a sense of community. Help continue this positive momentum by registering your workplace or school for "The Challenge" to use alternative transportation at least one day during "Bike, Bus, Walk Week", May 12-16. This includes biking, taking the bus, carpooling walking or some combination. With proper planning and education, many people can leave their car behind now and then. It's free and easy to register your business (or school) at www.ozarkgreenways.org. Besides the obvious perks of alternative transportation, like improving health and saving resources, there are extra perks ñ free stuff: * Panera Bread will give a free breakfast to everyone who participates at least one day that week! (bagel & coffee) Must be registered through workplace or school to be eligible. Find Out More: www.ozarkgreenways.org April 28, 2008 – “Bike, Bus, Walk Week” Alternative Transportation Q: What role can bicycles play in our transportation challenges in the urban areas? Q: What one thing might Springfield promote and accomplish that would help make us a better and more sustainable transportation community? Q: We heard the Chamber might be installing a bike rack outside its office. If so, what brought about that decision? Q: This year, we want to recognize a worthy neighborhood for their bike/ped friendliness. How do you think neighborhoods can play a role in highlighting transportation issues? Q: How can businesses in Springfield benefit by promoting alternative modes of transportation to their employees, such as biking to work?
The 3rd Annual Trike 2 Win trike race has a new spin. This year we are having a Derby Day's theme. Win-Tucky Derby trike race is a chance to have great fun and help women in need throughout the Ozarks. This annual event benefits Women in Need of the Ozarks (WIN), which is a local not-for-profit organization helping single working women that do not qualify for help from governmental agencies. WIN-TUCKY DERBY · 4 person teams This is a great event with food, games, raffles and laughter for everyone. WIN is a not-for-profit organization designed to improve our local community by providing women in need the opportunity to enhance their self-esteem. We pledge to provide the resources necessary to enable women in need to become women of strength, and provide reinforcement as they develop the qualities of compassion, professionalism, and motivation which will lead them to the path of success. Who WIN helps: Working women not receiving any other form of public assistance, challenged by a financial crisis.
Hal Donaldson, President and Founder of the Springfield-based international compassion organization, Convoy of Hope, will lead the prayer meditation. Since its founding in 1994, the organization has helped more than 20 million people in more than 100 countries through disaster response, community outreach and international relief and empowerment. The program also will include local community and religious leaders offering prayers for the needs of government and its employees. Tickets are free to government employees and $6 per person for all others, available at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, 202 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway. The prayer breakfast is organized by the interdenominational Springfield Prayer Breakfast Committee, chaired by Dr. Robert Spence, Evangel University president. Originated by the Continental Congress in 1775, the National Day of Prayer is observed annually on the first Thursday in May. The Springfield observance is consistently one of the largest National Day of Prayer events in the country with more 900 people attending.
NEOSHO – Retired Staff Sgt. Daniel Parker is the renowned instructor, weapons expert and the namesake of the trophy awarded to the winner of the Missouri National Guard’s annual Sniper Competition. When more than two-dozen Guardsmen and ROTC cadets gathered at Camp Crowder for the first phase of this year’s competition, Parker was on hand to judge their technique and pass on advice. “These kids really surprise me,” Parker said. “With the way life is today – with so much more important and tougher things going on – it’s surprising to see these guys with so much enthusiasm and interest in it still. Most of them are starving for information; they just want to learn.”
At this year’s contest, Parker posed as a target for the snipers during the stalking competition. Competitors had to crawl through tall grass to get within shooting range of Parker before he spotted them. Going up against Parker, one of the most skilled and knowledgeable snipers in the Missouri Guard community, was the ultimate test for the competitors. “We got nabbed, and we were only 10 feet from the line before Parker spotted us; he definitely knows what he’s doing,” said Staff Sgt. Steve Lammers, who works with Parker at the 1107th Aviation Classification and Repair Depot in Springfield. This is Lammers’ eighth year competing. “I got started with Parker in 1998; it was my first year to compete, and I only had three days to prepare for the national competition,” Lammers said. “I rode all the way to Nebraska with Parker, and he tutored me on everything, all the way there. He’s a heck of a teacher because we actually took third place.” Parker himself began competing in sniper competitions in 1990. He quickly became a teacher and mentor to the younger Soldiers and shot for the All-Guard Team for 10 years.
Although Parker is a renowned marksman, he is perhaps better known for his weapons knowledge. “I’ve built a number of M14 rifles and 45-pistols, and I’ve built a lot of hunting rifles,” Parker said. “It’s always just been a hobby for me, but what I learned in the 20 years I’ve been involved with the sniper competition is that what I really enjoy is helping others – showing the snipers the positioning and technical stuff.” Parker, who retired from the Guard in 1999, now works as a Guard contractor building helicopter parts. “He’s as good with building weapons parts as he is with building helicopter parts,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Huber, judge advocate for the Missouri Air National Guard and long-time friend to Parker. “He’s a walking, talking, firearm encyclopedia. He built both the sniper rifles for this sniper competition.” Parker said there’s always someone with a question for him about technique, strategy or about sniper rifles. Soldiers eagerly look to Parker for his expertise. “That’s what I enjoy,” he added. “To see that much enthusiasm. They get blisters out here, strained ankles, cut up in the thistle and just plain worn out, but they just keep going.”
At 68, Parker said he sometimes feels “over the hill,” but as long as the Guard has a use for him, he’ll keep coming out to lend a hand. “I’m lucky to still be in pretty good health,” Parker said. “As long as they still need me – or want my help – I’ll be right here, helping. That’s what I enjoy the most.”
In a room filled with women who already sparkle, LFCS will have a fashion show that will dazzle anyone in attendance. Enjoy the glimmer of the finest clothing from Talbots, Jelly Beans and M Btweens. Want to take home some “bling” of your own? Purchase a feather boa or tiara for $25 and enter to win diamond earrings valued over $2,000. Bid on one, two or all of our delicious cakes in the silent cake auction. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for children 12 and younger or $30/$20 at the door. Contact Tobin Dunn at 417/ 862-1972 to purchase tickets or for more information. Proceeds from this event will support the southwest office adoption and foster care programs. Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri is a non-profit, statewide social service organization providing counseling, adoption, crisis pregnancy assistance, day care and mentoring services to the community. With offices in Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, Columbia and Springfield, LFCS touches the lives of more than 22,000 individuals annually. The services provided by LFCS are open to everyone regardless of race, faith, national origin, gender or age. Although Lutheran based, more than 80 percent of families served are non-Lutheran. For more information, visit www.lfcsmo.org.
The second-annual Bee Payne Stewart Strut will take place at 10 a.m., Saturday, April 26, 2008, in downtown Springfield. The walk will begin at Jordan Valley Park, with registration beginning at 9 a.m. This year's Honorary Co-Chairs are Missouri State Representative Sarah Lampe and Greene County Commissioner Roseann Bentley. The late Bee Payne Stewart's daughters, Susan Daniels and Lora Thomas, also will be a part of the event. The 1.4-mile walk will raise funds for womens' athletic programs at Drury University, Evangel University, Missouri State University, the Springfield-Greene County Park Board, and the Women's Intersport Network (WIN). Bee Payne Stewart was the first woman to serve as Park Board Chairperson on the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. She also was a passionate supporter for women in leadership and sports, financing many women's athletic needs in the community. To register, visit www.springfieldwin.com or call (417) 864-1049 for more information. Team incentives and drawings include a Carnival Cruise, Hammons Field suite for the night, downtown and local restaurant gift certificates, and more.
Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops Pledge Additional $12 Million to Underwrite Springfield, Missouri—(April 23, 2008)—The expansion and renovation of the Wonders of Wildlife National Fish and Wildlife Museum and Aquarium (WOW) is well underway. “Great progress is being made on the renovation of Wonders of Wildlife,” stated Peggy Smith, Interim Director of Wonders of Wildlife. The new museum design will make WOW one of America’s premier attractions.” The theme will be centered around “The Great Outdoors” with a focus on hunting, fishing and conservation/history. Many world-class exhibits and displays are planned for the new museum including several interactive displays to heighten the visitor’s experience. Some of the displays and features include a flooded rainforest exhibit, a shark touch tank, a large living coral tank, a butterfly aviary and a nocturnal swamp just to name a few. The museum will dramatically increase from 126,129 square feet to more than 200,000 square feet. More exciting details of this plan will be announced in the future. “With this additional $12 million pledge (to be paid over the next five years), along with cash and assets previously contributed by Morris and others, adequate funds are in place to underwrite this dramatic expansion,” stated Max Peterson, Chairman of Wonders of Wildlife. “We are grateful to Johnny Morris, not only for his financial contributions, but for the giving of his energy including countless hours of time, to ensure that this is going to be a world-class facility,” continued Peterson. Long time museum supporter Morris commented, “All of us at Bass Pro Shops and Tracker Boats are happy to lend our support to help make WOW the most inspirational fish and wildlife attraction and conservation learning center in America. Reinvesting in the future of fish and wildlife conservation and the proud traditions of hunting and fishing is one of the very most important obligations and opportunities we have.” Morris continued by saying, “We hope that Wonders of Wildlife will be a tremendous inspiration to future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.” Construction progress has accelerated and a Ring Road allowing pedestrian and fire access around the north end of Wonders of Wildlife will be completed soon. A larger lake will be at the corner of Sunshine and Campbell streets and will be potentially used for conservation and educational purposes. A new vehicular entry will be available that centers around a Springfield landmark—the large oak tree that was adjacent to the Shady Inn. While the majority of the existing Wonders of Wildlife building will focus primarily on living species the adjacent support space will be used for fixed exhibits. A third level is being considered for more exhibits. Two large mechanical spaces have been cleared allowing for a bridge connection over the community pond offering a new dynamic not previously available. A new west entrance located on the south end of the museum will be the new main lobby and ticketing facility that expands into the current building and is connected to Bass Pro Shops. Within this space a series of restrooms and vertical circulation paths will be introduced to provide convenience and access and will serve as a gathering place. A versatile and very capable design team has been assembled with members including TVS Architects, Atlanta, who assisted with the Georgia Aquarium, Peter Chermayeff, renowned aquarium designer, Daryl Richardson, owner and designer of the Dallas World Aquarium and Kenny Alexopoulos, designer of the Oklahoma Aquarium. The estimated budget cost for the WOW expansion project is $25 million and is targeted for completion in the summer of 2009. Simultaneously, Bass Pro Shops is undertaking a major expansion, remodeling portions of its existing store including totally new and expanded hunting and fishing departments. Also, at its expense, Bass Pro Shops plans to construct on land that it owns, a dramatic new conference and banquet space consisting of several floors. It is contemplated that 2 upper mezzanine levels of this facility will be made available for the benefit of the Museum for additional wildlife exhibit space, similar to the Natural History Museum in New York at the nominal rent of $1 a year.
SPRINGFIELD – Southwest Baptist University will host the inaugural Bearcat Bowl flag football tournament at Plaster Stadium in Bolivar on Saturday, May 3, to benefit Ozarks Food Harvest and other local charities in the Bolivar area. Registration is $175 per team for teams made up of seven players, age 13 and older. A portion of the proceeds will go to nonprofit organizations, including The Food Bank in Springfield, which serves more than 325 hunger relief agencies across 29 Ozarks counties. Flag football team members are encouraged to collect canned food items for Ozarks Food Harvest. The team that collects the most food will receive an automatic bid into the single elimination, same day championship tournament. Ozarks Food Harvest distributes more than 4.5 million pounds of food annually to its network of agencies, reaching more than 41,000 people each month. The Food Bank also offers direct relief through its Kids Cafe, Food for Thought, Club F.U.N. and Mobile Food Pantry programs. For more Hunger Run information, contact Keith Allen at 770-1881. To learn more about Ozarks Food Harvest, call 865-3411 or Transform Hunger into Hope at ozarksfoodharvest.org.
Neosho – More than two-dozen Soldiers from the Missouri National Guard and University of Missouri-Columbia’s Army ROTC gathered at Camp Crowder for the Guard’s annual sniper competition. This first phase of the two-phase competition tested Soldiers’ skills in navigation through unfamiliar terrain and their ability to locate, identify and approach a target undetected. Soldiers were also judged on their ability to estimate their distance from targets using the naked eye, binoculars and sniper scopes.
“The snipers have to know about range estimation and how to judge distance,” said retired Staff Sgt. Daniel Parker, a living legend in the sniping community and the namesake of the contest’s trophy. “They have to know and understand land navigation so they can get into and out of the woods, and then the other side of it is the actual shooting.” Good camouflage is the key to surviving as a sniper. During the competition, Soldiers stalked their targets wearing ghillie suits. Ghillie suits are uniforms camouflaged with netting and natural vegetation that help snipers blend into their surroundings. The competitors were also tested on their memory skills. Soldiers were told to memorize 10 military items which were placed in front of them. Later, during and after physically or mentally stressful tasks, Soldiers were asked to recall the items. “These are basic skills – land navigation, the memory game, range estimation and shooting,” said Sgt. 1st Class Eutimio Delgado with the Missouri National Guard Operations and Training office. “The purpose of this competition is to keep the Soldiers’ basic training up and to provide additional training outside what they normally do with their units. The competition of it just makes it more fun for them.”
Though the Missouri National Guard currently does not have any sniper positions within its ranks, most all of the skills taught and practiced within the competition are the same as what Soldiers train for throughout the year. Delgado said it is necessary to separate the competition into two phases given the number of elements that are included. Participants will return to Camp Crowder in June for the shooting portion of the contest. While there, they will fire M-16s and Winchester sniper rifles at distances up to 800 yards. “Soldiers love shooting, but this other stuff is an important part of sniping,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Huber, marksmanship coordinator for the Missouri Air National Guard. “There’s a lot of other things besides pulling the trigger, because once a sniper pulls the trigger, they betray themselves to the enemy. They have to be able to get to their target, identify it, shoot it on the first shot and then get the heck out of there without getting killed themselves.”
7 a.m., Saturday, May 31 A volunteer orientation meeting will be held from 6 - 7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 1, at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 4600 S. Chrisman. To sign up as a volunteer, please call Monty Montgomery at (417) 869-0990. Registration is filling up for the 9th annual Ozark Greenways Adventure Race to be held at 7 a.m., Saturday, May 31, at Gasconade Hills canoe & campground near Lebanon, and many volunteers are needed to pull of this unique event. The race features coed teams of four competing in an 8-14 hour multi-sport endurance event including running, mountain biking, orienteering, canoeing and mystery tests. The Ozark Greenways Adventure Race has become very popular among regional "weekend warriors" and has attracted team members from as far away as California, Montana, New Hampshire and Florida! Since its inception racers from 25 different states have participated in this unique event. Teams can register on line at www.ozarkgreenways.org, and the event maximum is 100 teams. Because the race is run entirely by volunteers, one hundred percent of the race proceeds go to Ozark Greenways to continue the development of Springfield's growing public network of greenway trails.
For 20 years, Habitat Springfield has partnered with Greene County residents in need to help provide more safe, decent and affordable housing opportunities. The Habitat for Humanity family selection process is one of the most important tasks the affiliate undertakes. The integrity and credibility of the Habitat project depends on a fair, objective and nondiscriminatory family selection policy and process. Family selection volunteers must work within the Habitat criteria and legal standard set forth by the Federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act. Criteria used to select an individual or family to partner with Habitat and buy a Habitat home are based on need, the ability to pay a low-cost, no-interest mortgage payment, and willingness to partner with Habitat Springfield. More information about volunteering or becoming a Habitat homeowner is available at www.habitatspringfieldmo.org or by calling Habitat Springfield at (417) 829-4001.
Springfield, Mo. – In conjunction with Party for the Planet, the Earth Day celebration at Dickerson Park Zoo, two individuals are recognized as Earth Heroes. Each recipient has shown a long-term commitment to protecting natural resources, raising awareness of environmental issues and educating the public. Dr. Alice (Jill) Black is an assistant professor in the Department of Geology, Geography and Planning at Missouri State University. Her instruction responsibilities include “Earth Science for Teachers” for future elementary school educators. She is also trained in Project WET, Project WILD and other national environmental education projects and incorporates these initiatives into her university curriculum. In her nomination, Dr. Janice Greene wrote of Dr. Black: “Jill is tireless in her efforts to educate teachers about the environment.” Dr. Greene received recognition as an Earth Hero in 2003. The other 2008 Earth Hero is someone near and dear to the hearts of many at Dickerson Park Zoo. Sue Schuble was nominated by her fellow volunteers with Greater Ozarks Audubon Society for her tireless volunteerism since retiring seven years ago. “Schub,” as she is affectionately known by many, helps GOAS maintain native plants in a new three-acre prairie along the South Creek Greenway. As “Snipper,” GOAS’s scissor-tailed flycatcher mascot, she presents programs on bird migration and behavior; and she helped create a beginning birding class for people to better appreciate the birds in their own backyards. Her volunteer work brings her to Dickerson Park Zoo to work with birds of prey each week. In addition to her other zoo programs, she helps over the winter with various “Eagle Days” public education programs. One day a week she staffs the front desk at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center and assists with the Conservation Kids Club program. Sue travels extensively and often presents travelogs to community groups and at the Brentwood Branch Library. Dickerson Park Zoo first presented the Earth Hero Award in 2000 to recognize individuals or groups in the community actively engaged in Earth-friendly efforts to reduce waste, conserve energy, protect and preserve nature and wildlife, clean up our environment or benefit environmental causes. # # # Dickerson Park Zoo is a division of the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA).With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, visit www.aza.org.
The lunch event is closed for Rotary members and invited guests only. Members of the media are welcome to cover the speaking engagement. Danforth will participate in a book signing immediately following the luncheon, expected to last from 1:15 - 1:30 p.m. His book, Faith and Politics: How the 'Moral Values' Debate Divides America and How to Move Forward Together was released in 2006. Danforth also will participate in a public discussion at 3 p.m. that same day at Drury University's Stone Chapel, at the corner of Central Street and Benton Avenue, as part of the W. Curtis Strube Ethics in Business and Lyceum Series event. Strube was a longtime business leader and Rotary Club of Springfield member. The 3 p.m. event is free and open to the public, however a limited number of tickets are available. For ticket information, call the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association at (417) 831-2783. The Rotary Club of Springfield (Downtown), Rotary Club of Springfield Southeast, Rotary Club of Springfield Sunrise, Rotary Club of Springfield North, and Rotaract Club of Springfield collectively present Danforth's trip to Springfield. Special thanks to Great Southern Bank and the Oasis Hotel and Convention Center for their support of the visit.
9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, April 19 The third "Reforest the Ozarks" tree sale will take place at the Missouri Entertainment and Event Center, 3001 N. Grant, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, April 19, (or until trees run out). This effort is a partnership between Ozark Greenways and KOLR10, to sell native species trees at a very low cost to the public in hopes of replenishing as much of the ice storm tree loss Springfield has experienced over the past two winters. Four native species will be available for $10, including a flowering cherry, redbud, red maple and swamp white oak. Quantities will be limited to three trees per vehicle. We are confident the trees will sell fast, so the public is advised to come early. Mulch and proper tree planting/tree care information will be available, and donations are always welcome. See the web site for details: www.ozarkgreenways.org - or call (417) 864-2015.
From the Springfield Autism Community In Celebration of Autism Awareness Month April 25-26, 2008 On April 26th, five "breakout" sessions, will featuring the following topics: Project ACCESS educates and trains school district personnel who serve students with autism and related developmental disabilities. For more information call Joannie Armstrong at 836-6675 or email joanarmstrong@missouristate.edu. April 25-27, 2008 April 26, 2008 · 11:00 a.m. Children’s Storytime and activity featuring “Since We’re Friends: An Autism Picture Book” by Celeste Shally. This event is sponsored by Autism Speaks.
(April 17, 2008 – Springfield, MO) The Council of Churches of the Ozarks invites representatives of the media to attend a Press Conference tomorrow morning, Friday, April 18, at 8:30 a.m. The Press Conference will be held in the Matthew Fellowship Hall of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, Dorsey Levell Ministry Center, located at 627 N. Glenstone. Dr. Michael Olmsted, Chairman of the Board of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, will be announcing news of a planning grant awarded to serve abused and neglected children and youth in Greene County. In addition to the grant announcement, Sondra Uzzell will be introduced as the first Director of Ambassadors For Children, the operating agency of the Council of Churches that will administer the grant. The grant is awarded under the program entitled “Access to Faith-Based and Community Resources for Abused and Neglected Youth – Replicating the HALOS Model.” The nationally recognized Charleston, South Carolina HALOS model matches community partners with child protective workers to provide for the needs of abused and neglected children. HALOS Executive Director Kim Clifton said the Council of Churches’ goal for this project is: “To engage the Greene County community to provide goods and services to those children who have suffered from abuse and neglect. In order to accomplish this goal, Ambassadors for Children will develop a system of service delivery as well as cultivating community partners, conducting a needs assessment, establishing a strategic plan, and planning for sustainability.” Ambassadors For Children has a nine year history as an operating agency of the Council of Churches serving foster children and families under the name Families for Children. Foster families and children are provided with adjustment guidance and practical assistance with new clothes, shoes, winter coats, eye glasses, school musical instruments, sports equipment and tutoring. In addition to replicating the HALOS model, Ambassadors for Children will also continue to support Greene County foster children through the Pack-a-Bag with Love and Kid’s Clothes Closet programs. Any Faith Group, Civic Group, local business, or individual who wishes to participate in this initiative to support local abused and neglected children is encouraged to contact Sondra Uzzell at 417-862-3586 or suzzell@ccozarks.org. HALOS was founded by Dr. Eve Spratt in 1997 and throughout its history has served thousands of abused and neglected children in Charleston County, South Carolina in collaboration with faith communities, businesses, civic organizations, and individuals. You can find more information about HALOS by going to their website at www.charlestonhalos.org or by calling the HALOS office: (843) 953-3714.
Receives USAID IFRP Grant for Second Year in a Row Springfield, Mo. – Corn prices alone jumped 30% this year, reaching their highest price ever last week at $6/bushel; the price of rice has doubled in the last year. Worldwide, food prices are escalating to previously unimaginable levels. While Americans may respond to the higher prices with more selective grocery shopping or by tightening their wallets, in third world countries where people already live with little or no margin, it’s a matter of life and death. Some blame the industrialization of China and India. Others blame ethanol production. Regardless of the cause, people worldwide are reeling, trying to adjust to the soaring prices and market volatility of previously cheap grains. “People in many parts of the world rely on cheap grains that are readily available like corn, rice and beans to satisfy their hunger,” said Convoy of Hope international director Kenton Moody. “It used to be that just animal products, fruits and vegetables were hard for the poor to come by, but now even the cheapest products can be hard to obtain.” Though it’s also affected by the price increases, international compassion organization Convoy of Hope continues to move forward with its ongoing worldwide feeding programs in El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Kenya, feeding more than 12,000 people daily. Helping it to do this, Convoy of Hope just received, for the second year in a row, an International Food Relief Partnership (IFRP) grant from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for its “Nurturing Hope” feeding programs in Haiti and El Salvador. This will allow the organization to not only continue, but to hopefully expand the feeding programs there. “The rural areas are especially needy with one of every two El Salvadoran children being ‘chronically malnourished.’ This grant enables Convoy of Hope to touch thousands of malnourished children who need our help,” said Kenton Moody, International Director of Convoy of Hope. “For many of these children, this will be their only substantial meal for the day.” Nurturing Hope includes a nutritious, hot meal, daily vitamins, anti-parasite medicine, basic medical oversight, school supplies, water purification, and nutrition education for both the children and their parents.” “Nurturing Hope” was first started as a pilot project in Nicaragua. The program was so successful that, with the support of corporate partners and the USAID grant, Convoy of Hope expanded it to El Salvador and Haiti. Convoy of Hope and the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) personnel are excited about the students’ measurable improvements in height, weight and grade point average, and how practices for good nutrition and personal hygiene education are spreading through the communities. Helping these children and their communities long-term could help the countries economic futures. “We believe we have a viable solution for chronic malnutrition through better diet and health practices. Combined with education and community support, this will help to end the cycle of poverty for many of these children,” said Moody. Convoy of Hope also distributes food products to several other countries. Needs are projected to sharply increase, and the organization is looking for ways to increase its capacity. Demonstrating the impact of the food crisis, the WFP has had to cut food distribution, providing only 60% of what it has in the past. This will severely affect its Millennium Challenge goal of eradicating poverty by the year 2015. Despite making difficult progress toward that goal, poverty is expected to actually increase worldwide due to the food crisis. To help Convoy of Hope in its response to the worldwide food crisis and other humanitarian issues in the United States and abroad, please visit www.ConvoyofHope.org.
Water Lovers Land Lovers Oh, and one more thing...
Start! Walking America: The American Heart Association’s National Start! Walking Day is April 16
Studies reveal that American jobs have become more sedentary and that employees are working 164 more hours a year than they did 20 years ago. The Start! movement works with employers and the 142 million Americans in the workplace to create a culture of walking before, during or after work. “Incorporating walking into your daily routine is one of the easiest changes that you can make,” said American Heart Association President Dr. Daniel Jones. “You can hop off the bus or subway a stop or two earlier; you can take the stairs at work or park father away. There are lots of little ways to incorporate a few more steps, which can truly have life-changing results.” Companies across Missouri and nationwide are celebrating National Start! Walking Day by hosting fitness rallies, establishing walking routes and encouraging employees to wear walking shoes to work on Wednesday, April 16. The American Heart Association is partnering with Donny Osmond, who serves as the national spokesperson for National Start! Walking Day and the Start! campaign. In fall 2007, Osmond’s father died of heart disease. Since then, Osmond has recommitted to maintaining his physical fitness. “Good health is a very important component of my life, but with a demanding schedule and a busy family, I know what it’s like to be unable to find the | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Monday, April 14, 2008 – Wednesday, April 16 is the American Heart Association’s National Start! Walking Day. The call to action is simple: Americans should fit 30 minutes of walking into their workday.