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CHAMPION—April 17, 2011

        The good news in Champion has to do with the whippoorwills and the hummingbirds.  These are the sure harbingers of Spring and are as welcome as would be gift of a dozen mushrooms the size of pop cans.  The hummers will be here in force before long as the ‘scouts’ have been here for a couple of weeks now.  Many Champions keep feeders out for them and find them fascinating to watch.  They use the sugar water and flower nectars to fuel their astonishing metabolism and for protein and other nutrients they eat soft-bodied insects and spiders!  Some suggest setting out some overripe fruit or banana peels to attract flies for the hummers, but most folks in the country have enough flies to share already.  It would be nice to let them in the house to go on spider patrol, a Champion idea if unrealistic.  Articles found at hummingbirds.net indicate that red dye is not necessary to attract the birds and that it may be harmful to them.  They can live a long time.  Some say the average is three to four years, but some species have been documented to live for twelve years.  Champion!

        When Champion seamstresses of a certain age were learning to sew, it was customary that the nap of a fabric such as velvet or even some corduroys should go from the top down.  That is to say a person wearing a velvet shirt should be able to stroke the sleeve from the shoulder down to the elbow had have it be smooth.  Conversely, stroking against the grain or nap from elbow to shoulder would produce a rough sensation.  Sometime during the past forty years things have changed. Now almost any velvet garment a person can buy has the nap running up.  It is suggested that as long as all the individual pieces in the garment run in the same direction it does not matter.  To be rubbed the wrong way is however unpleasant.  It seems that it is easy enough to rub someone the wrong way without trying.  Champions expend good effort to maintain their friendships.  Some other old Champions think that nap is their afternoon snooze and are definitely badly rubbed if disturbed.

        Champions are grateful for having missed out on the recent bad weather that has caused such death and destruction on either side of them.  Spring is an especially volatile time weather wise, though this part of the world has experienced tornadoes in every month of the year.  Sympathy for those suffering goes along with humility concerning good fortune.  April has been designated as the Month of the Military Child by the VFW.  Governor Nixon signed the proclamation acknowledging the military child as a source of pride to Missouri and recognizing the children of Missouri National Guardsmen for their sacrifices and the challenges they endure as their parents protect the state and nation as well as provide humanitarian relief around the world.  In celebration the Missouri National Guard’s Family Warrior Support group has scheduled events and activities throughout the month.  Look for details at http://vfwwebcom.org/missouri.  A link can be found to this VFW site at www.championnews.us.  Look for Linda’s almanac there too.  It says that the whole of the Easter weekend can be given over to planting root crops.  Champions in frost pockets know that there is still plenty of time to get a good garden in.  It may be too early to plant out those delicate things, but the soil can be readied.  There is never a shortage of things to do in a pretty garden.  They say if you see a pretty garden, there is generally someone in it.  Around here it will be a Champion.

        Esther Wrinkles reported a great meeting last Friday over at the newly renamed and reorganized Vanzant Community Center.  Sybil Gheer will be pleased to know that the first Pie Supper has been scheduled for May 7.  Everyone is welcome come and to bring a pie or any other good thing for the auction.  Esther said that J.W. Collins and the young Shannon auctioneer will be doing the honors that evening so it should be a lot of fun.  She has a sign up in her dining room that says “Pie Fixes Everything.”  The community center needs a little fixing up and that is the purpose for the proceeds of the evening.  It will be a great kick-off for the Spring and Summer Social calendar, so mark it down and show up to see old friends and to make new ones.  Champion!  (Vanzant really.)

        That other Tennessee boy has been in the neighborhood visiting with his Grandmother.  He has brought his banjo and his good humor to help Champion stay on the bright side.  His younger cousins will be swarming around him because he is so much fun and his great uncle Harley has made a trip from Illinois in time to coincide with Dillon’s visit.  He has what is called a magnetic personality.  He will have to leave before the Easter Parade in Champion but he will not consider himself to have missed much.  Perhaps next year he and his other great uncle, The General, will have a marching banjo-accordion duet worked up for the parade.  “Here comes Peter Cotton Tail hopping down the bunny trail.”  Hippity hoppity on in to Champion singing your favorite song, maybe that one about your Easter Bonnet with all the flowers on it.  Send any news of Champion interest or examples of “therein lies the rub” to Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO 65717, or to Champion News.  Enjoy a pleasant stroll around the Square in Downtown Champion—Looking on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION—April 11, 2011

        Champions are pleased for the rain, pleased for the good company of friends and family visiting, pleased for the progress in their gardens and various other enterprises.  Overall the Champion neck of the woods is quite a pleasing place full of the glories of spring and happy people.

        A good neighbor reports that Wes Smith cut his hand while working on a hay wagon and the next day cut his other hand working on same project. Pat came along with some duct tape and fixed him up.  The good neighbor plans a trip out to buy the Smiths a nice first aid kit.  That is always an appropriate gift and just having one on hand often reduces the need for it.

        The joys of spoonbilling were revealed to Adam Michaud when Big Bill Long took him fishing down at Lake Taneycomo recently.   Bill was busy Sunday sharing photographs of Adam and the monster thirty-five pound fish he caught.  It will take a lot of people or a lot of time to get it all eaten, though a project like that can sometimes gather a surprising amount of support.  Bon appetite!

        A swaggering local Champion allows as how he has been finding mushrooms the size of pop-cans.  Until he has shared some of those finds around sufficiently it will be assumed that the cans he is talking about are all those blue ones along the roadways a large number of which he has most likely single handedly emptied himself. 

        Champions are all glad to see that Ms. Eva Powell is feeling better over a recent illness.  Her spirits were much lifted by a visit from Granddaughter Emily with her husband Victor Ash and Eva’s great grandchildren Salina and Conner.  Conner has just had his third birthday and it is amazing to see how quickly the little ones seem to grow.  Pictures on The Dairymaid website show Taegan (Peanut) Krider to be in the middle of growing up herself.  It may be that parents are not really aware of the speed of change in their babies because of their constant exposure, but let a couple weeks go by and they seem to have jumped up in size and ability.  Very interesting this human condition!  Find The Dairymaid in the links section at www.championnews.us. 

        One of those Tennessee brothers is visiting with his Grandmother on the farm for a few days.  Cousins Foster and Kalyssa think that Dakota is the cat’s meow.  This part of the country is full of first and second, near and distant cousins and so the isolated folks with no blood kin nearby just look at the intertwining local family trees as a charming briar patch.  Family closeness is lovely to view even if it is not ones own.

        An Old Champion was visiting with Esther Wrinkles on the phone Saturday. He reported that she wants to be sure that the news gets out so that everybody will know about the meeting at the Vanzant Community Building on the 15^th.   It is to be held at seven in the evening and everybody is welcome to attend.  Maybe Sybil Geer will go.  A chance for conversation with her on Election Day is one of the reasons some Champions vote at all.  She is excited to learn about when the first pie supper will be at the Vanzant Community Building.  She said that she had enjoyed her time teaching there when it was called Clifty Hall.  Ms. Geer seems to enjoy everything.  She always has a smile and a pleasant word and is always dressed to the nines.  She is about ready to put away her cowboy boots for the year.  She has many pairs and finds them perfect with her skirts for wintertime warmth.  On that day she was wearing white and silver snakeskin boots—very stylish.  Her fellow election official, Velma Schroeder, was sporting a shiny chrome walker as a prize for a fall that she had taken recently.  Hopefully she will be able to ditch it soon, but it is good to see her up and around anyway and happy to do her civic duty.  The single (and only) male on the election board kept his cap pulled pretty low over his eyes to disguise his nodding off.  He must have some enterprise going somewhere that keeps him worn out.  Sue’s tie-die is not really a uniform, but like her, it is always bright and cheerful and while the community would still recognize her in other clothes, it would be a bit of a puzzlement to them.  “Hmmm, “ they would say, perhaps a little confused wondering what was different. 

        Email from Pete Proctor includes some nice photos of Pete, his son Bryan, and their friend, Patriot Rider Jerry England.  In honor of Bryan and the many deployments he has served, England put seventeen US Flags up on Pete’s street and driveway when this Champion came home recently to visit his parents.  Pete says that Bryan will be going to Qtar in May for a year’s deployment there.  Champions wish him all the best and are grateful for his service, and for Pete’s.  Vietnam era Veterans are the group about Pete’s age now, about ready for Social Security and some are still dealing with things they experienced those long years ago over there.  It is common to say, “Hate the war not the warrior.” Whatever the policies or reasons for the various conflicts going on around the world currently, those serving and those who have served are the reason the Viet Cong or others are not headed up Champion driveways.  So, thanks.

        A Saturday trip down to Vera Cruz for the Fortnight Bridge Club meeting had the group dazzled by the dogwoods and delighted by May apples and bloodroot.  What a glorious place and glorious time of the year!  The Vera Cruz host was the winner with Champion second and Brushy Knob third.  Linda, representing Norwood, brought home the nickels this time, which probably brought her losses down to about thirty-five cents.  That is not expensive entertainment by any standard.  The play, the refreshments, and the good company all meet the highest standards for a really good time.  Champion!  Between hands garden plans and progress were discussed.  The Vera Cruz and Champion players are both in frost pockets, while Brushy Knob and Norwood are at a higher elevation and can generally get their tender things in earlier.  Linda says business is picking up at The Plant Place and people are getting excited about growing food.  Her Cole crops are looking good and she has just transplanted lots of tiny tomatoes.  In Champion it is generally figured that the last frost is May 10^th.  That seems a long way away, but it will go by quickly.   The weather man seems to indicate that Champion might get a frost on the coming week end, so patience will be the requirement for those ready to jump the gun.  Get a copy of Linda’s Almanac over at the Plant Place or at Henson’s Store currently located in the temporary annex on the West Side of the Square in Downtown Champion.  Old timers will verify that following the signs is a good way to get there.

        A big pile of new treated lumber was noticed over the weekend kind of stuck up under the porch of the recreation of the historic emporium.  Nobody was around to explain its purpose so Champions are left to speculate.  One is singing, “I’ll build a stairway to Paradise with a new step every day!  I’m going to get there at any price, stand aside, I’m on my way.” That particular Champion has no rhyme (and hopefully no rime) or reason for what she sings.  So, pay no attention to her or to that man behind the curtain.  Be a Champion—Looking on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION —April 4, 2011

        A review of the first week of April over the last five years reveals the following:  Good news in Champion (April 9, 2007) is that Spring is back Again!  During the course of the week assessments will have been made about the degree of freeze damage to trees and shrubs, though the full extent may not be evident for some time.  Some are hoping for a second mushroom season to follow the second winter.  All are optimistic about something.  It is just the Champion mind-set to look ahead with expectations of a favorable outcome.  On April 6, 2008, there is a rumor in Champion that dogwoods are blooming!  By the time this goes to ink it may be so in a widespread way.  May Apples are up two or three inches high and mushroom hunters have begun to gather ticks already.  There is a great rivalry to claim the first and most of anything among Champions.  They can’t help it.  April 6, 2009, said that April slipped in to Champion as quietly as the March lamb left and all was springly sweet and pleasant those first few days.  T.S. Elliot was right though when he said, “April is the cruelest month, breeding Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing Memory and desire, stirring Dull roots with spring rain.”  Mr. Elliot wrote his poem, “The Waste Land,” in 1922, and it lives up to its name with some very dreary imagery.  Clearly, he was not from around here because even the brutal cold winds of those next few days with threats of snow and frozen flowers did not frost the spirits of Champions though they may have been picking ticks from their long handles.  On April 5, 2010, Champions, alert to the inevitability of change, welcome it with the same ease and grace with which the seasons come and go.  Even so.  Let it be.  The genuine heart of Champion does not change, however, the part that acknowledges the importance of good neighbors and good deeds and that part that recognizes and celebrates the beauty of the place.  So on April 4, 2011, everything is the same–beautiful and full burgeoning growing things and full happy hearts.  Not boring—Champion!

        The Barren Fork Traditional Muzzleloading Association bunch will host the spring Rendezvous April 16^th and 17^th over north of Gainesville.  Participating campers will reflect the 1640-1840 time period in their costume and camp gear.  Visitors are welcome to come and look around.  Ed Peterka has all the particulars and can be reached at auntiem@getgoin.net.  What an excellent opportunity for young folks and the rest of us to get a look at how things were back in the old days.  It took some sturdy individuals to thrive during those times and to raise families that raised families that are Champion families today.  Time is a fluid concept.  Dillon Watts will have his birthday on the 12^th.  He will have to have a belated Champion party as his spring break is slow in arriving this year.  Bob Berry will celebrate on the 14^th and all his Champion friends will be ready to shake his hand to say, “Wow!  You sure don’t look that old!”  He and Mary will most likely be at the Vanzant Community meeting on Friday night, so that will be a good chance to glad hand a nice man.  That meeting will inform the public about the situation, condition, etc. of the community building and plans for the future.  Everyone is welcome—7 p.m.  Income Tax Day finds George G. Jones another year older if unchanged from his flamboyant youth.  Taegan’s Uncle Dusty and her great Aunt Vivian will share the spotlight at different parties together on that day too.  That is on Friday and so is liable to be a blowout.  Packing heat and partying hearty, that whole outfit might as well be called the Wild Bunch.  There is a good chance that Harley and Barbara will be down to enter the fray and they will be considered to be a sight for sore eyes.  Maybe Barbara will have a preview of her Spring collection!

        It is reported that there are 3,060,000 people in the U.S. military and reserves, accounting for less than two percent of the population of 305,816,827 people.  Other sources say less than one percent of the population is currently serving.  Whether it is less than two percent or less than one percent, three million people are still quite a few.  It is wonderful that the Constitution can be supported and defended so well by so few.  There are 25.2 million veterans who have done that defending for the rest of the population and the Veteran’s Administration says that on any given night there are 107,000 homeless veterans.  Just knowing the numbers is not really much help.  Anyone wanting to show Love and Gratitude to a Veteran as a friend or a stranger can contact the local Veterans organizations.  The VFW posts and the American Legion have numbers in the phone books and avenues of direct support to Veterans in need.  Champion!

        Research into early April in Champion’s recent years unearthed this from 2007: “All over this part of the country the forsythia is in full bloom.  There are many beautiful examples of it but perhaps none so lovely as the one in Louise and Wilburn’s front yard.  It is not as large as some, but for overall beauty it is without compare.  It is so wonderfully symmetrical and each blossom seems especially large and well formed.  The branches all spring from a center core and arch themselves upward and outward like a mellifluous gilded fountain.  The open spaces uniformly highlight the perfection of each flowered bow.  Like Louise and Wilburn, it is a Champion!”  Louise says that it is just that pretty again this year but she allows as how Judy Hutchison, her sister-in-law, over west of C Highway has one that is truly magnificent.  This shrub is fairly easy to get started and pretty much takes care of itself.  Linda has some excellent specimens of it over at the Plant Place in Norwood and a wealth of information about it and most anything that grows.  Her Almanac says the 5^th, 6^th, 9^th and 10^th are all good days to plant crops that bear their yield above ground and they are all good for transplanting and planting flowers.  Find the almanac on the counter there or in the links section at www.championnews.us or posted on the refrigerator in Henson’s Store currently located in the Temporary Annex on the West Side of the Square in Downtown Champion just to the south of the Loafing Shed and immediately across the thoroughfare from the edifice that some say is surely most representative of the Golden Ratio.

        The 35^th Annual All Fool’s Formal was a grand success over at the Ace Café last Friday.  That is a spot over on the Far Side of Booger County and the place was simply jumping!  Judy T. Ing started the event back in the 1970’s and it carries on as a tribute to her and to all Champions everywhere with big hearts, love and tolerance for their fellowmen, and the willingness to get silly while still being good!  Send any kind of good Champion report to Champion News or to Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367 Norwood, MO. 65717. “Forget your troubles, come on get happy.  Sing your blues away.  Shout Hallelujah, come on get happy!  Get ready for the Judgment Day!”  Snap your fingers as you stroll around the Square.  It is Champion!  Looking on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION—March 28, 2011

        The wild unpredictable vicissitudes of Spring are not lost in Champion and Champions stand with bouquets of early flowers and optimism for the warm days ahead.  Mushrooms will be gracing certain tables and spring breakers will be out looking for more just to please a sweet grandmother…Meanwhile late Sunday night found fortnight bridge players driving home in the driving snow!  What a Champion kind of Spring!

        About forty people attended the meeting over at the Vanzant Community Building last Friday night.  President Bobby Emory and second fiddle, Robert Upshaw, have been joined on the board by secretary Debbie Stone, treasurer Debbie Shannon, and board members John Unger, Theresa Wrinkles and Brenda Massey.  They will have a board meeting all to themselves to assess the situation and hash out plans this coming Friday and then another public meeting on Friday April 15^th to inform the community of their findings and figurings.  The group has designated the 8^th and 9^th of July for the Vanzant Picnic this year, so things are moving along already.  An email came from Carmen McCarty with some good information about the old building.  It was called Clifty Hall School and the last school year there was 1967-1968 with Mrs. Cap (Verla) Wood the last teacher.  Clifty Hall was consolidated with the Mountain Grove School District then.  Ms. McCarty’s Dad, Claudle Lovan, was a bus driver for the little school as was Merle Kutz.  She thinks the only living teacher who taught there is Sybil Geer.  She remembers that they had a Clifty Hall Yearbook one year but she lost her copy during one of her moves. Perhaps someone will find an extra copy to share with her. 

        “You’ll never plow a field by turning it over in your mind,” according to an old Irish saying.  Linda’s Almanac from over at the Plant Place in Norwood says that the 29^th through the 31^st will be barren days, best suited for killing plant pests or to plow or cultivate.  The first and second of April will be good days for planting root crops, extra good for vine crops and to set strawberry plants.  These are also good days for transplanting.  It looks like the 5^th and 6^th will be good days for getting those peas in the ground for slowpokes who do not have it done yet.  Some old Champions have become so precious that they do not think they should be cold or uncomfortable in any way.  Fair weather gardening is still probably much better than no gardening at all.  A look at the prices in the grocery store might be enough to have them rethink their delicacy.  Find a copy of the Almanac on the website at www.championnews.us or over at the Plant Place or down at Henson’s Store currently located in the Temporary Annex on the West side of the Square. 

        “When?”  It is a much-asked question.  “Whenever” is as good an answer as is liable to be had. “Are we there yet?” the kid asks before the car is out of the driveway. Patience.  It seems that every week there is a family dispute concerning the spelling and meaning of a couple of words.  To finally set the record straight:  A “patient” in a hospital is often required to have “patience” with the red-tape and aggravations of being hospitalized.  Two people in the hospital are “patients” and must each also have “patience.”  English is a delightfully complex language.  It is always appropriate to correct the grammar of a child if it is done in a kind and instructive way.  Patience is always appropriate even when “When?” is over-asked. 

        Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Davis of Republic have had their nuptials celebrated Booger County style with much fanfare and delight of family and friends who wish them a long and happy life together.  It is lovely to see a young couple starting out well grounded and with the support and appreciation of a good community.  Congratulations!  Mozel tov!

        The struggle to stay on the Bright Side is less arduous in isolation.  When there is no distressing news of political unrest, natural disasters, unnatural disasters, and human suffering, it is easy enough to live that sweet Utopian (Champion) life—free of any contention, free of artificial flavorings and colorings.  The bright and flavorful citizens and environs of Champion have no requirement for dangerous and unnecessary chemicals.  Red 40, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are particularly onerous.  An editorial in the Washington Post reveals that the European Parliament requires that foods containing these chemicals must bear a label warning that the dyes “may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.”  There are cancer risks as well.  There are many vivid natural food dyes made largely from plant extracts that do not pose these threats, but using them requires costly and inconvenient reformulating of the food products—something that European manufacturers but few companies here have been willing to do.  Maybe the worst aspect of the whole food-coloring issue is that children are attracted toward brightly colored processed products that are high in calories but low in nutrients.  Champions recognize that there is an emotional connection between people and color and as citizens of the world, prefer to grow their food rather than to manufacture it.  Informed choices are Champion.  It all adds up over time like plutonium, which was the first man-made element produced in a quantity large enough to see.  Now they say that there traces of radioactivity in the rain in Champion.  It adds to the little piece of radioactivity from Chernobyl and all the atomic tests and bombs going back to White Sands, and all the mammograms and dental x-rays that do not shield the thyroid gland.  Even in the deepest hollows and the ‘fer backest’ hills there is no longer the option to be isolated.  So Champions accept their place as world citizens and will live the example of being good neighbors and friends, minding their own business and behaving.  One old Champion will try to stop using the word ‘sweet’ to mean good.  It is a start.

        Vivian Floyd was just about settled in to enjoy a Stained Glass Theatre production the other evening when the General abruptly appeared and demanded to see her ticket.  He seems to be everywhere at the same time and to Ms. Floyd’s credit she laughed right in his face!  She has a great laugh and Champions hope she will bring it down home one of these days soon.  Maybe she will be here for the Champion Easter Parade again this year.  The General is practicing walking and playing his accordion at the same time and if he can find someone to follow maybe he will not wander off into the brush this year.  They said that last year he was following the Spotted Hog.  If a gentleman is someone who knows how to play the accordion, but doesn’t, then what do you call a General who does not necessarily know how to play, but does?  Answer at Champion at getgoin.net.  His fans most often request him to play “Far Far Away.”   Sing what you like as you stroll around colorful Champion—Looking on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION—March 21, 2011

        Champions watched the Super-moon set on the first morning of Spring and saw the new season suddenly emerging in bright yellow forsythia and daffodils against deepening greens as the woods are thickening with swelling buds.  Dogwoods will soon be showing themselves and redbuds will pink up the woods in their own special way.

        Champions have lost a Champion.  Betty Shelton passed away on Monday the 14^th.  She was 77 years old and had been in ill health off and on for a long time.  She and J.T. have lived in downtown Champion for twenty-one years. J.T. grew up just a little east of Champion and Betty was from a little further east over by Bakersfield.  J.T.’s sister, Gladys, and her husband Jack Burchell have spent the week with him and Dennis Shelton came down from Iowa for a few days.  Betty had a good sense of humor and a great laugh.  She liked to be out and going when she could.  Her passing will not be unnoticed in Champion.

        Good news in Champion is that Connie is feeling very much better.  Louise took a moment away from her company to make the good report on Monday morning.  The company was Wilburn’s brother Manuel Hutchison and his wife Sue who were on their way back home to Lost Nation, Iowa.  They had a pleasant visit, which is the only kind a person could have at Louise and Wilburn’s house.  They are Champions.

        There is to be a meeting at 7 pm on the 25^th of the month over at the Vanzant Community Building.  The meeting is being called to elect board members for the administration of the building.  Currently Robert Upshaw and Bobby Dean Emory are the board and the organization is looking for new membership, additional board members and some interest, ideas, enthusiasm and help.  Sources close (very close) to the General say that he will be there with bells on.  It is unclear why he will, but once he gets something in his head it is Generally a done deal and having the General on one’s side is no small asset in any endeavor.  The Vanzant School last held classes there back in the 1950’s.  In recent years the building has been the site of many fundraisers and benefits for local people and people have held garage sales there and other events.  The annual picnic is always one of the highlights of the area.  The facilities are in need of some updating, but the soundness of the existing building and the good central location, good parking and good history make it well worth the effort.  Everyone is invited.  Esther Wrinkles said that Bob Berry and Mary Goolsby will be there and they live over on the other side of Twin Bridges!  So from far and wide, come and meet your neighbors and help out with a good cause.  There will be some Champions there for sure!

        “Desire trumps time.”  That is what one Champion told an acquaintance who is struggling still with the tobacco habit.  Twenty years later, not having had a cigarette in all that time, the urge is still there for the Champion and so there is weight to the words.  A young relative recently wrote that if you cannot change the thing that you do not like, change the way you think about it.  So a possible change might be to learn to enjoy the wanting.  Before, the smoke had been the reward for having finished something, the excuse for a break, and the solace for thought.  Now the little unfinished feeling, the little lack of something, the tentative uneasiness could be the end in itself.  To always be a little hungry is a good way to stay thin they say.  If the lack of something bad is indeed the same as something good then there is a star on which to hitch your wagon.  Wagons are typically easy places from which to fall, but Champions can always get back on.  The handle is on the bright side.  A while back someone wrote in to comment on the Old Champion’s rules by which to live.  Right after #2 “Be where you are” is “Have no unsustainable habits.”  (Previously, the rule had been written: “Do not get strung out on something you cannot have,” but it was decided that the vernacular was coarse and the new version has fewer syllables.)  Champions support each other in their struggles and apply another of the rules:  “Give us all a break!”

        Dillon and Dakota Watts go to different schools over there in Tennessee and, as it turns out, they have different spring break schedules, so there will be grandson on the Fox Creek Farm for an extended period of time—just not the same one the whole time.  It is not at all confusing to the family and the whole community gets a lift when they are around.  Cousins Foster, Kalyssa, Taegan (Peanut), Eli and Emerson Rose will all be looking for some fun with them.

        Some Champions are out getting their potatoes planted these first good days for below-the-ground crops.  Linda’s Almanac from over at the Plant Place in Norwood says that the 27^th and 28^th will both be good days for that kind of planting.  A few warm days can cause some to get ahead of themselves garden-wise.  It is easy to let the enthusiasm for the activity obscure the fact that May 10^th is considered to be the last frost date in Champion.  An extra big bunch of turnip seeds is going in the ground in the hope that Lem and Ned will show up about the time that some serious weeding will be required.  They are the daydream hillbilly boys that like the drudgery and dirty work that husbands are so often reluctant to do.  They work for practically nothing (a few turnips) and have gone to the Festus Haggen School of Convoluted Syntax and so are the dad blamedest most gentlemenliest and shore fired most eloquent spoke of airy a barefoot, loose limbed, lop eared, yeah-who that the likes of any of you plush bottomed rocking chair wranglin old scutters might ever have saw.  Enough said—surely.

        While Salem Sal was running the faro bank at the Ace Café, a rough customer became abusive toward her and was summarily dispatched by young Frank.  He then proceeded to rosin his bow and perform a funeral march.  This is the gist of the poem that the Old Champion hopes will be revealed in full at Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO 65717 or at Champion News. 

        The world is in turmoil with people struggling against natural and man-made disasters and against oppression.  Safe and secure at home in Champion, it would be easy to ignore the troubles of the world, but Champions know that the world has really become quite small and, on some level, what affects one affects all.  Love and Gratitude for doing what has to be done goes out from Champion to all those serving at the behest of the Nation.  Come home safely and soon to the people who love you.

        April 1^st is coming up quite soon.  It looks like it will be on a Friday this year.  It may be that the waiting will be over about then.  Champions who like waiting and enjoy that little unfinished feeling may be rewarded for their patience eventually.  The excitement is palpable and rather than run the risk of jumping the gun, Champions will bide their time, bite their tongue, hold their horses, keep their hand on the plough and wait.  Come hang around Champion for a little high quality waiting, but do not get in the way of progress.  Admire the beauty of it:  Champion—Looking on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION—March 14, 2011

        Champions have felt little earthquakes in recent weeks.  They are unsettling.  As tragedies unfold in other parts of the world, Champions take a moment to reflect on their relative security and their great good fortune.  An individual’s fate can turn on a dime, so can the fate of a nation.  Champions everywhere need not look far to find others in less desirable circumstances. 

        Sophia and Penelope are visiting their great aunt and even greater uncle in Champion and in a few short hours have collected rocks, transplanted tomato plants, made lots of music and have had dinner, cake and ice cream, good baths and a bedtime story.  They have plans for a great many other activities including a big bonfire, walks in the woods, and work in the garden.  Penelope Kay is five years old and attends the Little People’s Academy in Austin, Texas.  There are six people in her class and her teachers’ names are Miss Ariel and Miss Linda.  She is not a big fan of school yet, and finds all the writing practice to be boring.  She has a friend named Gio with whom she likes to play dinosaurs.  So far she has most enjoyed picking special rocks out of a big pile of gravel.  Sophia Lisbeth is a third grader at Henderson Mill Elementary School.  She says there are about twenty two students in her class, a few more boys than girls.  She says that they are given a lot of homework to do every night.  Reading is her favorite subject.  She particularly enjoys fiction and has read a number of books about a contemporary heroine, Abby Hayes.  She has been enjoying her time on the farm and especially transplanting the little tomato plants.  When asked about the likelihood of an earthquake happening in Texas she said, “It would probably not happen where I live, but I feel bad for the people in Japan now.”   She said that tornadoes are the things to worry about where she lives, but they have a good warning system there.  It is a long trip from their city to Champion, but many things are the same.  Champions keep their eyes out for tornadoes all year long and Champion hearts also go out to people in other parts of the world who are suffering in the dreadful disasters.

        Good neighbors over in Vanzant had a very successful fundraiser for Ed and Kristi Miller last Saturday night.  Ed had a heart attack back around Christmas and can no longer work.  Gwen Banks organized the deal and there was chili and hotdogs, music and a great auction, which included some beautiful items as well as numerous cakes and pies.  Sources said that pies sold for an average of about $20.00.  It is reassuring to know that neighbors will step up to help each other in difficult times.

        Word has arrived that Harley has visited the Hoover Dam and is home now thinking about it.  Perhaps by the time he gets back over to his old Champion home he will have digested all the sights and sounds that California had to offer him and will be able to make some cogent statement of his assessment.  It will be good to see that branch of the Kriders any time they show up.  Young Dillon Watts over in Tennessee is said to be making good progress from his ear surgery and since his physical activities are to be restricted for the next few weeks it might be an excellent time to practice his banjo!  Now there is a guy who knows how to utilize his time.  Miss Taegan Krider and cousin Foster Wiseman were notably absent in Champion on Sunday.  They are fighting bad colds and all their Champion friends and family wish them a speedy recovery. 

        When the ladies of the Skyline Auxiliary got together last week to hash over the results of their recent chili supper they were all well pleased with the results.  A few improvements were suggest for next year and pats on various backs were liberally assigned.  Donna Boyd will have received the “thank you—I’m sorry” card by now that acknowledges her tremendous effort as well as Paul’s hard work, and the apology from the Champion correspondent who called her “Tina” in the paper last week.  The card went on to say that a correction this week would be a chance to say, “Thanks again!”

        Times have changed as everyone knows.  A study shows that when there are fewer elders in a community they are more revered.  The nation is getting older and every day in America 10,000 people have their 65^th birthday.  Almost any one of them would say that when they were growing up if someone came into their mother’s house they were offered a cup of coffee, a glass of tea, or at the very least a drink of water.  That still goes on in some places, in some households, but Champions are cautioned not to have feelings hurt if it does not happen.  The times are changing.  Age is no more synonymous with venerability than faith is with virtue.  Champions are, by and large, charitable and friendly to strangers, helpful to the poor, sick and disadvantaged.  What a great place to live!

        It was good to see that the young soldier from Monette, Christopher Stark, had a memorial service seemingly free from disruption.  Hundreds turned out to honor him and his family and to stand in the path of that group of protesters who seem to exemplify faith but not necessarily virtue.  Champions extend Love and Gratitude to all those serving, all those who have served and all those who love and care for them.  The link has been changed in the www.championnews.us website so that a look to the VFW Post 3770 takes you to the national VFW site—well worth the look.

        Get out to that website to see some great pictures of Sophia and Penelope as well as that great link to the Dairymaid!  It is a most enjoyable read.  The old Champion lady is still looking for someone to respond with the rest of the words to “Fiddling Frank.”  Send them to Champion News, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO, 65717 or to Champion News.  Get ready for a delightful exercise in waiting as the last few aspects to the Re-Creation of the Historic Emporium/Mercantile on the North Side of the Square in Downtown Champion come to fruition.  One day it will be as if it were always thus.  It will not be long after the big change until it will seem as if it has always been just like this.  What a celebration is in store for Champion!  Looking on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION—March 7, 2011

        In Champion the reason for hope is always there. People looking on the bright side always have something to look forward to with optimism for a good outcome. Emily Dickinson said, “Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul, and sings the tune—without the words, and never stops at all.” She goes on to say that hope requires nothing from the people who are hoping. Such a Champion notion!

        Skyliners had another excellent chili supper on Saturday night. The food and music were wonderful as always and neighbors who rarely see each other got the chance to get caught up with visiting. It was lovely to see Ms. Velma Gray again. She has just celebrated living in her Skyline home for 63 years. Ruby Proctor was seen having a good time with her friends and she said that she had recently been down Champion to look at the progress on the new store building. She loves it and is looking forward to the grand opening. Big Murph Murphy out bid out-of-state bidders for the painting of the Old Store at Champion, by Pat Michaud of Marshfield. He plans to hang the painting in his barbershop there on the corner of the square in Mountain Grove, but someone said that Sue has her eye on it for their home. Esther Wrinkles said that if Sue wins out on this, she has some nice photographs of the old store that she will be pleased to share with Murph. The silent auction was quite exciting this year with so many nice pieces donated by local artists and craftsmen. Noted pie-artist Esther baked the coconut cream pie that was the big money maker, going for a record $80.00 to Bob Berry. Bob also won the drawing for the queen size quilt. He has been buying tickets from Esther every year since the first quilt was put on the block for Skyline back in the 1980’s. When M.C. Steve Moody read his name, the crowd roared! It is almost as wonderful to have friends win as it is to win oneself! Louise and Wilburn Hutchison, Sharon and Farel Sikes, Tina and Paul Boyd, Betty Elliot and others did all the hard work and heavy lifting in the kitchen that produced the excellent meal enjoyed by all those attending. All the behind the scenes work and planning that these dedicated folks do is the reason these fundraisers are so successful.

        This is the part of the world where people really reach out to help each other. Ed Miller had a heart attack back during the Christmas season and he can no longer work. So Gwen Banks (948-2707) and others are getting together to host a benefit for Ed and Kristy at the Vanzant community building on Saturday, March 12th. Chili and hotdogs will be served starting at 5:30 and an auction will begin at 7:00. Everyone is welcome to attend and to contribute pies and auction items. It is a real opportunity to meet good neighbors and to be one.

        E-mail arrived in the Champion News mailbox saying, “I can almost always figure out what you are talking about eventually, but I am lost about the Cowboy’s Lament and whatever is supposed to come before it.” Well, the Cowboy’s Lament is that song that everybody knows that starts out, “As I walked out in the streets of Laredo,” and goes on to tell the story of the dying cowboy. The poem that sometimes is recited before this song is about Fiddling Frank. The old Champion thinks that there is a first verse of the poem that she does not know. The part that she knows begins, “Now there was a doll-faced gal, by name of Salem Sal.” The story goes on about how she loved young Fiddling Frank and how he defended her against a rough customer and then picked up his fiddle. Anyone acquainted with the Fiddling Frank poem is urged to send it in its entirety to Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO 65717. In a part of the world so blessed with good fiddlers, surely someone knows, “He tuned his strings, as a soul took wings, and a funeral march did play.”

        Daffodils are beginning to bloom all over the place. They are lovely anywhere, but it is especially sweet to see them blooming out lonely in a field or all by themselves in the woods by the side of a country road. It says that once there was a home place there that has disappeared except for the attentions of some long ago woman who did what homemakers do. People sell out, move on or die and the old house and outbuildings deteriorate and disintegrate over time, but the bulbs and shrubs so lovingly planted are living memorials to nameless old-timers who also had beauty in their lives. Gardening is a Champion pastime today. The state of the economy is such that many will be planting more vegetables this year than ever before. Farmers are sharing the old manure and people are sharing saved seed and good experience. Linda has her free monthly almanac available over at the Plant Place in Norwood (also at www.championnews.us) and will have those Cole crops ready when it is time to put them out. Perhaps the years only seem to go by this fast when a person has accumulated more than sixty of them! Zip!

        Twenty two year old Christopher Stark of Monett died in Afghanistan last Monday. He was trained as a bomb specialist and was on his way to a site where an improvised explosive device had been spotted when his vehicle was hit with another device. He and 25-year-old Chauncy R. Mays of Cookville, Texas are now among the more than 2,348 soldiers in the U.S.-led forces that have been killed there since 2001. As their families deal with their loss, it is to be hoped that they are able to do so with the support of their communities and with the Love and Gratitude that the Nation owes them.

        This time next year Champions will already be forgetting about that strange transitional year between the Old and the New. By then the New will be ordinary again and life will progress as if nothing out of the ordinary has gone on. The flavor and tenor of the new situation will be much as the old one except that the floor boards will not be worn through and it will be more spacious if still so cozy and sweet. Sing your tune with or without the words on your way down to Champion to Look on the Bright Side!

CHAMPION—February 28, 2011

           Sure signs of Spring in Champion include the emergence of many forgotten bulbs and the swelling of certain buds, and unsettled weather—hot, cold, windy, and wet—all in the space of a few hours.  Robins and buzzards come home and watch the geese going farther North.  There are subtle shifts in the shades of green and a lightness of heart as winter’s worries fade away.  Every season has its delights in Champion.

          Champion Esther Wrinkles is getting excited about the music at the Skyline VFD chili supper coming up Saturday night. She stays excited about music.  She is a real appreciator of the bluegrass and gospel and is very much looking forward to the jam session that will begin at the end of the scheduled performances by Big Creek, the Backyard Bluegrass and Green Mountain Messengers.  This part of the world is blessed with many talented musicians and it is a real treat to have a chance to hear people perform who may not have the time or opportunity to be part of a regular group, so jammers bring your axes!  It is shaping up to be another wonderful event.  Esther may also have one of her famous pies in the silent auction and her bright and beautiful utilitarian strip quilt will be on display before the drawing for it is held at the end of the evening.  People in the area who have homeowner’s insurance have it because the Skyline Volunteer Fire Department is there.  This is an excellent way to express appreciation and support.     

          Gardeners will be glad to know that the little cabbage and broccoli plants that their gardens will need are thriving over at the Plant Place in Norwood.  Linda’s Almanac is there too waiting for people who are ready to get their hands in the dirt.  It is also on-line at www.championnews.us in the links section.  According to it good days to transplant will be the 4^th, 5^th, 6^th, 9^th and 10^th. 

          “Fear less, hope more, eat less, chew more, whine less, breathe more, talk less, say more, hate less, love more, and good things will be yours.”  This is the Swedish proverb that has prompted conversation in Champion lately.  It all makes good sense.  Another clever observation was made by an old Champion whose high school classmate accused him of becoming an old radical.  The Champion said,  “The eagle needs both left and right wings to soar.  If one side becomes weak, the poor old bird just flies around in circles.”  This may be one of the best lessons in tolerance spouted lately.

          Interest in the community of Tigris is prompting investigation by local history buffs.  The city clerk for Ava, Marilyn Alms, has learned that the place was named for the Tigris River in Mesopotamia and that Robert E. Childress applied for a post office there in 1921.  This is good information gleaned from Journals of the Historical and Genealogical Society of Douglas County.  Champions have some very interesting neighbors and are looking forward to learning more about them.  Edward Peterka sends out the good news that a pre-1840 Blackpowder Rendezvous will be held in April.  More will be forthcoming about this event.  It proves out that one need only ask them in order to have those questions answered.  For example, a query was made a few years ago about the source of the term “huckelberry” as in “I’m your huckleberry!” and a concise informative response came from George Sims.  The self-described ‘snake doctor’ has a lot to say.  Look at www.theozarkian.wordpress.com to enjoy his interesting writing.  Now the new quest is for the forepart of the poem that is spoken before strains of The Cowboy’s Lament is played.  What comes before this part?  “There was a doll-faced gal, by name of Salem Sal.  She was running a faro bank.  Just as square a kind as a gent could find and she loved young Fiddling Frank.  Now there came one day to the Ace Café a man to beat all gambling games.  He was mean and tough, with a manner gruff, and eyes for the dance hall dames.  He got rough and pulled some stuff that wrankled this dance hall dame.  She slapped his face, just to show him his place, and he yanked out a knife to kill.  But a six-gun roared and a spirit soared to the heavens above boot hill.  Now to Fiddlin Frank, the dance hall drank, as he holstered his gun away.  He tuned his strings as a soul took wings, and a funeral march did play.”  Then comes that song, “Beat the drums slowly and play the fife lowly.”  Maybe someone like fiddler Jerry Wagner knows the beginning of that poem and will be willing to share it.    Whoever answers the question will be a Champion Huckelberry for sure.  Respond to Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO 65717 or to Champion at getgoin.net.

          Champions are mindful of their friends and neighbors who are suffering ill health and they send their best thoughts and prayers for a good outcome.  They send their Love and Gratitude to all those serving at the behest of the Nation that provides for the domestic tranquility that Champions so enjoy.  Get over to Champion to see the painting by Pat Michaud that will be on display in the Temporary Emporium until Saturday.  It is a lovely representation of the Old Store, which looks remarkably like the New Store.  It is Champion!  Looking on the Bright Side.

CHAMPION—February 21, 2011

        An exciting week in Champion brings news of a Valentine gift to beat all gifts.  Shelby Elizabeth Ward was born at 6:00 a.m. on Valentine’s Day!  Everyone is well and there is a long line of Face-book friends and family saying, “Congratulations!” and good wishes abound.  What if when Richard and Kaye launched that canoe in the Bryant over at Rippee all those years ago and what if the water had not been so high and rough?  What if they had not tipped the canoe and lost their dinner box?  What if their inability to swim had been an issue?  What if Morton had been there with a different son-in-law in mind or if Lorene had had chores at home for Richard that day?  As it turns out everything happened just right and all these many years later that young couple splashing in the creek are now grandparents.  Sweet!  Word is that Shelby is lovely and that Madelyn is quite proud of her little sister.

        VFW Post Commander Lyman “Pete” Proctor e-mails to say that there have been some updates to the VFW website that will show what the organization has been up to since the first of the year.  It can be found at www.vfwwebcom.org/mo/post 3770.com.  Champions appreciate the update as well as the dedication of those in the Nation’s uniforms serving around the world.  Find the updated link to this website at www.championnews.us.  While there, check out the new post on The Dairymaid.  The Farmer’s Wife will have Champions educated about dairy cattle and pleasantly entertained while she is at it.  While he was at it Pete informed that his Mom, Ruby Proctor, has celebrated a birthday on February 19^th.  She grew up in Champion and considers it home though she does not get back out this way as often as her friends would like.  Champions wish her a belated but heartfelt “Happy Birthday!”  Reminders of the swiftness of time come when friends and family remember that it was seven years ago that they gathered to wish Staci a happy 21^st birthday!  There was a big party with lots of good food and music.  How ever she celebrates this year Champions wish her the best and many happy returns!  That party happened back when the General was still masquerading as the Admiral, before it was learned that he could no more swim than his sister Kaye!  Much has changed in seven years, but much of the truly good stuff is still the same.  New information about the old days continually comes to light.  Upshaw children playing on the high bluffs, swinging Tarzan-like on the grapevines, are lucky to have made it to adulthood, Vernon.  All this family history sheds light on the reasoning behind Staci’s choice of spouse.  It is becoming more clear as the years go by and Champions reconcile.

        Champions are pleased to hear that Dillon Watts is making a good recovery from a surgical procedure on his ear.  He lives over near Cripple Creek in Tennessee but makes it to Fox Creek for a few visits each year.  The place takes on an exciting air when he is around—kind of wild and interesting.  Champions are thinking about Louise’s daughter, Connie, (also wild and interesting) and are delighted to learn that she is feeling better.  Champion neighbor and radio personality, Butch Kara, is mending after one of those bypass surgeries that require the rib spreaders.  He says he has been wired back together and he is optimistic for a full recovery.  A newcomer to Champion, John Moreau, passed away suddenly last week.  Sometimes people are slow to make acquaintances, thinking they will stop in one of these days.  Sometimes it is too late and they miss getting to the chance to know an interesting person.  It is a caution.

        A group of Champions and friends were standing around visiting on Sunday afternoon, looking over at the Re-Creation of the Historic Mercantile on the North Side of the Square.  Everyone agreed that it has an excellent configuration and speculation about the possibility of a grand opening celebration was bandied about.  While the bandying was going on and weather observations were being made there came over the hill and floating right down the Fox Creek valley a wake of buzzards—dozens of them.  It is a sure sign of spring that they have returned.  Champions are relieved and delighted at the possibility of some much-needed rain.  Almanacs were traded around and Bill Long had special tomato seeds to share.  Linda’s Almanac from over at the Plant Place in Norwood is available on the Champion website, in the Temporary Annex of Henson’s Store on the West Side of the Square and at the Plant Place.  It will be time soon to set out those cabbages and broccoli.  Linda will have them ready for her Champion garden friends.

        Linda will not be able to attend the Skyline VFD Chili Supper on the 5^th of March.  It is her birthday and she will be off on a big get-together adventure with her granddaughter.  There is fun going on when they are together.  The Old Biddies will be getting together on Thursday for their monthly bridge game and it is a sure bet that she will be there and that great fun will be had.  Any bridge player will report the excitement around fanning each hand.  The chili supper will have its share of fun and excitement as well.  Wonderful things are being gathered for the silent auction.  Adam Michaud reports that his Mom has a good start on the painting of the Old Store in Champion.  There will be some real surprises on hand for this annual fund-raiser.  Those firefighters can use all the support they can get.  Lylle Luellen, Champion neighbor and long time Skyline Fire Department friend will be fondly remembered and missed.  He was a fixture at every Skyline event for many years with his good humor and pleasant smile.

        Sometime on Friday a new white Dodge Ram pick up truck was spotted on a county road off of Highway C dumping trash.  These were big things–a cable box for a dish-network and a television, farther down the road a microwave oven, some computer stuff and another TV.  Residents reported the incident to the sheriff’s office and quickly cleaned up the mess.  People are more likely to litter when litter is already present.  It was speculated that the stuff might have been stolen, but nothing further has been learned.  Someone said that people who do not know any better than to dispose of their refuse in this manner are probably not smart enough to understand ‘trash litters.’  “Who are you calling trash?”  If the shoe fits, please do not throw it out of your truck window!

        Champion is one of the fortunate places in the world where people are simultaneously devoted to their past, present and future.  History is a lovely thing.  A trip to Springfield via Highway 14 takes travelers through the community of Tigres.  These days there are just ruins of some old native stone buildings, but there was once a tomato canning factory there and it was a bustling place.  There are folks living around there who remember the history well.  Hopefully they will share it with someone who is interested and who will preserve it.  Share any history at Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO 65717 or at Champion News.  Sing, “Way back in the hills, as a boy I once wandered.”  Or sing “She promised that she’d marry me as soon as the war was over.  She said we’d live together just like chickens in the clover.”  Any old song will do—on key if you can and if you cannot, not too loud.  Music is important in Champion—Looking on the Bright Side.

CHAMPION—February 14, 2011

        Champions felt a great deal warmer at ten below when they heard that Louise’s brother up in Davenport, IA, had eighteen degrees below zero.  Kurt over at the post office, said he didn’t know if he would be able to tell the difference between ten below and eighteen below if he were out in it.  That is all in the past now anyway, and by the time this is in ink, it is likely to be quite warm—up in the sixties!  With all these little snowfalls stretching out over weeks there has been plenty of time for that good nitrogen to have become fixed in the garden.  Now, a few warm days and some rain may bring some deep beautiful mud and lots of it.  “Be careful about what you wish (for),” admonishes one.  Always careful Champions consider that doing so–taking that extra care–would suggest that there is some control to be had over the weather.  With bluebirds flitting over the clean melting snow, Champions say, “What will be will be.”   They are busy looking on the Bright Side, which includes a lot of Gratitude.  Neighbors all around had deeper snow, more ice, lower temperatures and more difficulties in general than did fortunate locals.

        The General has been slipping around all winter doing good works on the sly.  It was very obvious that he had been shoveling sidewalks for Esther when the Auxiliary Ladies met at her house on Friday afternoon.  The Skyline VFD Chili Supper was the subject of the meeting and plans are very much coming together.  There will be three fine bands for entertainment and local musicians are invited to ‘jam’ starting at about 8:30.  It ought to be a fine evening.  Rita Fancher has donated a painting of a millstream in autumn for the silent auction.  It is a small painting in a barn wood frame—very pleasant.  Bill Long has made a lamp hanger of fancy yellow pine, and Tim Scrivner has promised another of his famous bird feeders and perhaps a bluebird house.  The advertisements will be in the paper soon with all the exciting details.  There is liable to be stiff competition for one of Esther’s pies.  Bob Berry and Murph Murphey battled it out last year over a coconut cream delight until some big bucks were spent.  Champions! 

        It is good news to hear that Crenna is feeling better and worrisome news that Connie is not feeling well at all.  Health care professionals do their work but Champions chime in with prayers and good wishes for a speedy recovery for their dears, their friends, and neighbors.  Get well soon.

        One of the highlights of the Skyline Auxiliary meeting was a colorful collage of photos of miss Miley Dae Schober.  She was born January 17^th.  Anybody curious about what true love might look like only needs to register the face of a young father holding his baby girl.  It is precious to see and the pictures generated ‘oos’ and ‘ahs’ from all those attending.  Grandmother Sharon Sikes was glowing and she tore out of the meeting ready to go see that girl (since she was in the neighborhood anyway).  Champion Taegan, “Peanut,” Krider is taking two steps at a time now.  It will not be long before she will be on the run.  Her folks, the Young Farmer and the Dairy Maid are enjoying the many aspects of parenting.  Check them out at www.thedairymaid.wordpress.com.  There is a link to this charming blog in the links section of www.championnews.us.  Find Linda’s Almanac from over at the Plant Place there too. It indicates some good planting days to begin on the 20^th of the month and pruning to encourage growth can be done on the 23^rd and 24^th.  There is also a link to the VFW Post 3770 to keep Champions reminded of the serious work being done by those serving in their Nation’s uniform.  Technology has changed the way many things are done, but not everything.

        A Champion son residing abroad has come upon a Swedish proverb that he has chosen to share:  “Fear less, hope more, eat less, chew more, whine less, breathe more, talk less, say more, hate less, love more and good things will be yours.”   This most comprehensive admonition allows Champions to see that there are good people all around the world and they share many fine traits—perhaps with more in common than not.  Tumultuous events in Egypt and other places give pause to citizens here to recognize that it is a beautiful aspect of this Nation that people who love each other, family and neighbors, whose votes all count the same, can have fundamental disagreements among themselves with no diminution of their mutual respect. A public figure viewed as a hero with a glorious legacy by some can be seen as a traitorous self-serving scoundrel by others.  Ah! Freedom!  Someone said that Champion is located in Douglas County, the way Douglas County is located in Missouri, and the way Missouri is located in the United States—a little to the south and a little to the right. That is looking at the map–standing on the map it might be a little to the left–this is the whole nature of perspective.

        An invitation for a first hand view of the application of the Golden Ratio was eagerly accepted the other day and it is to be reported that progress is sterling!   Constant effort is required to dial back the enthusiasm for describing every aspect of the Re-Creation of the Historic Mercantile.  In the fullness of time all will be revealed.  Send your revelation to Champion Items, Rt. 2, Box 367, Norwood, MO 65717 or to Champion News. Sing “!Que` sera`, sera`!” to yourself—but not too loud.  It is kind of an annoying song. If you happen to come to Champion for an eye-full of the good stuff you can sing those praises all day long.  Champion—Looking on the Bright Side.