Features

I have to admit something to my readers that is very difficult for me. Difficult because it shows an area of weakness that has plagued me for my entire life. Are you ready? Here goes ... I have the artistic talents of a gerbil. Now I know for many...... Full story

Tatiana Zalozh and her sister, Natasha Kozhukharenko, both of Sedalia, usually only cook lavish Russian meals for special occasions and weddings, but recently they prepared several dishes for guests. The women come from a family of 13, including...... Full story

Drafted into the Army, served a tour in Vietnam where I was involved in heavy combat. Received this nation’s second highest combat award, the Silver Star. Came home to a country in turmoil over the conflict. What makes me proud of that? The...... Full story

Gayle Brandes, of Sedalia, aka the Cookie Lady, has been cooking up tasty dishes for area folk for 10 years, but over the last few months she’s decided to expand her expertise.  “I found out recently, I’m not a sit-down girl....... Full story

Apples, like pumpkins, remind me of fall — couple them with nuts and caramel and spices such as cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, and you know the holiday season isn’t far off. Cooking with apples is easy, especially once you know what...... Full story

When TNA Wrestling superstar “The Phenomenal” A.J. Styles was growing up, his idols were athletes who were big stars but were smaller in stature: Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders and Atlanta Hawks guard Spud Webb.“I always...... Full story

George Hart, a resident at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, rarely talks about his service in World War II.“It’s a horrible thing to think back on. I won’t discuss the war with anybody, because if I start talking about...... Full story

John and Bea Warder can find inspiration for their creative writing in their families’ histories, their feelings on procrastination or the simple pleasures of enjoying open-air breakfasts on the deck at their home.After living and working in...... Full story

Stacy Robb, nutrition educator at the University of Missouri Extension Office in Marshall, visits 70-plus classrooms, sometimes seven times each, to teach children about good nutrition. Her motto is, “Making good choices.” She visits...... Full story

Food contests during the second half of the Missouri State Fair continued to bring ribbons and cash prizes to competition participants. The newly introduced Kehde’s “My Favorite BBQ Recipe Contest” was a success. Sponsor John...... Full story

After the contests at Mohler Assembly Hall were completed. the Red Hat Society ladies were treated to a tram ride around the fairgrounds before returning to the hall for an awards ceremony.... Full story

This story is about the summit of Mount Baldy at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.There was not a hint of dawn as we scrambled across the slag field near the base. With purpose and trusting the one in front, we moved in line through the dark to a...... Full story

By Jeffrey H. MartinLouisville, Ky.I consider myself very lucky to have been part of the Boy Scouts of America Troop 61 in Sedalia. The monthly camping trips or canoe float trips provided adventures that most kids will never otherwise be able...... Full story

Scouting was not just a childhood experience, but a training ground for adulthood. As a member of Troop 61, under the leadership of Bill Fingland, I acquired knowledge and skills I still use today. The knots I tie, my camping and canoeing skills,...... Full story

My name is Don Holbert, I was born and raised in Kansas City, but currently reside in Sedalia. I grew up in a Scouting family. My father was a Cubmaster and an assistant Scoutmaster for almost 20 years. My mother was a den mother for almost 14...... Full story