There are a lot of great times taking place on Business Highway 60 this week next door to Dexter BBQ at the Ben Kruse 18 Fore Life Carnival.  The crowds continue to build each night.

As the welcome rain passed through the area early in the
week, the weather has been more than cooperative during the carnival nights.  With only one night remaining, the promise of another great night seems to be good to wrap up the weeks activities.  

The Millers Extravaganza Show filled this date at the last minute. moving locations from the fair grounds to the open land on Business Highway 60 next to Dexter BBQ and Ozark Fitness.  Getting into the traffic of the summer was the goal and it has appeared to pay off for the group.

"We really wanted to come back to Dexter to do our show as we really like the people around here", commented carnival owner, Freddy Miller of Greenbrier, Arkansas.  "... and teaming with the 18 Fore Life Foundation has been a great chance for us to give back to the community."

Montgomery Bank, County Wide Insurance Agency and the ShowMe Times all coordinated the event at the last minute to bring a little fun to the summer months. 

"We feel we can do so much more with this event next year", commented Dana Adams, Branch Manager of Montgomery Bank.  "We simply didn't have time to get the extra events planned this year but are already making plans for 2013." 

The Ben Kruse 18 Fore Life Foundation has become a strong local charity that is favored by many in the community.  With only a quick call to Scott Kruse, the event was quickly planned over a weekend and has been a success for both 18 Fore Life and the community of Dexter. 

"What do I always say ... 'YES'", explained Scott Kruse.  "I always say 'Yes' to people that are wanting to give of themselves to help move our charity forward. 

Kruse went on to explain that after the record setting event three weeks prior, the 18 Fore Life request list continues to have individuals and families that have needs.  The list is just longer than the amount of money that can be raised.

The slogan of "More Than Just A Golf Tournament" is held true with the activities surrounding the 18 Fore Life events.  From Crappie Tournaments to Volleyball Games to Santa Clause pictures, the list continues to grow in diversity and fun.

"You get into the idea of raising money for a good cause and that is basically a great part of helping 18 Fore Life", commented Alan Hedrick of County Wide Insurance Agency.   "But reality happens when you get a chance to see firsthand the impact that this charity brings to our community and the surrounding area."

Hedrick went on to tell the story of a young lady that stopped by the County Wide office to inquire about the 18 Fore Life charity.  Her father had been diagnosed this week with cancer and her family was facing some difficult times ahead. 

"I was able to help her make a connection to the 18 Fore Life Foundation to request assistance."  beamed Hedrick.  "I was also able to point her to Pastor Tim Russell of Lighthouse Christian Center and Lighthouse member, Kay Davison, to assist with the spiritual needs of the family."

The 18 Fore Life Foundation is far reaching in what it delivers to our community.  We all agree that the events bring a great time and good fun to our lives.  On a much grander scale, this charity touches lives in our community at the times it is needed the most. 

That story alone is motivating to help motivate a person to attend the Ben Kruse 18 Fore Life Carnival.  Your purchase of tickets for the Miller Extravaganza Show rides earns a large donation to support 18 Fore Life.

Have fun at the Carnival!!

Editors Note:  It was also noted how these events do not just happen without the cooperation and help of the entire community.  Special thanks to goes out from the sponsors to the neighbors surrounding the carnival grounds for tolerating a little extra traffic, some minor trash issues and just the congestion in the area.  Those are Dexter BBQ, Ozark Fitness, B A Promotions, Sherm Smith Jr., Dr. Bobby Jibben, American Steakhouse, Bank of Advance as well as many others.  Thanks for being great neighbors for this event.

The sponsors also would like to offer a huge debt of gratitude to Scott Rankin, owner of SEMO Land Design and Tim Holden, owner of Holden Pallet Company.  Both of these gentlemen jumped in after the rain last Monday to make certain the grounds were ready for the event.  Scott Rankin in particular took his professional skills and charitable heart to make a contribution to making this event successful.  Thanks to Everyone!