
Written by
Dee Loflin, SMT Manager/Editor
Dexter, Missouri - Not only did the 2nd grade students at Southwest Elementary color Poppy flowers in art class, but they held a Coin Drive.
Sgt. William J. Nelson of the 1221st Transportation Company in Dexter, who also served 13 months in Iraq, came and spoke to the students about his career in the military and the different organizations that could benefit from a fundraiser.
The students decided on a "Coin Drive". For just one week, the children were encouraged to bring coins to school as part of a special contest. As an incentive, the winning classroom would decide the organization that would receive the money raised by the entire 2nd grade and they would also be awarded a special party.
The total amount raised included 20,005 pennies, 4,999 nickels, 1,800 dimes, 404 quarters, 4 half dollars, a bobby pin, 6 screws, a few nails, a couple of Chucky Cheese tokens and some casino tokens for a grand total of $734.00!
Mrs. LeeAnn Nelson's classroom raised the most money with a total of $213.00. Mrs. Nelson's class chose Gobbler's Ridge Farm owned by Tom Love. This is a 125 acre area known to be the Disabled Veterans Wildlife Facility which can accommodate disabled veterans to hunt, bird watch or just view nature at no cost through a cooperative effort with the American Legion Post #59.
Mr. Love was available to accept the check and was pleasantly surprised! His dream has become reality and the community has been extremely gracious! A big thank you to all of the 2nd graders who helped raise money for the Disable Veterans Wildlife Facility. It went to a great cause!

Written by
Beth Farrah, SMT Writer
Dexter, Missouri - The Crowley Ridge Jaycees are currently hosting a “Kicks for Kids” shoe and sock drive. This project will help provide shoes and socks to the less fortunate children and students in our Stoddard County area. The deadline for donations for this project will be December third. After the deadline, Jaycee members will work case by case to help pass out the shoes and socks to the less fortunate children who need them through this cold weather season.
All donations for this event are appreciated, whether its money, new shoes, or slightly used shoes. The shoes and socks being collected are needed in any and all sizes available for children. Since the Crowley Ridge Jacyees is a new chapter, they hope to grow by the projects they do throughout their community, just like this one. They are also hoping to make their Kicks for Kids a yearly event that will continue to help the local children that need it.

Submitted by Jill Temples
SMT Writer
Dexter, Missouri- The FRIENDS Organization is a group of people who feel the Dexter Public Library is one of the most important institutions in our town. This organization supplements the library’s income, ensuring that Dexter will continue to have an outstanding library. Your contribution enables the Dexter Public Library to offer many programs and services to Dexter and the surrounding area.
By joining the FRIENDS Organization you will enable the Dexter Public Library to keep providing these events and services to our community. Also by joining the FRIENDS Organization, you may become a volunteer,
Some of these programs offered by the Dexter Public Library include:
-Purchases made of books, tapes, and other needed library materials
-Up-to-date computer services and equipment
-Summer reading programs
-Public awareness forums
-Children’s story hours
-Family nights
Volunteers can participate in the used book sale, become a committee member or board member, be included in special projects or programs, be a part of the membership drive, and volunteer at the desk.
Visit the Dexter Public Library to become a member today!

Submitted by
Dee Loflin, SMT Manager/Editor
Dexter, Missouri - Behind any successful professional, you’ll usually discover a strong, focused individual who does whatever is required to help her clients reach their goals. LaDawn Barnes is no exception.
Bringing an energetic spirit, and love of the splendid countryside, LaDawn makes the purchasing and/or selling of a home a very rewarding and positive experience. Whether buying or selling a home, LaDawn’s knowledge and great attention to detail makes her a genuine asset to her clients.
Inspired by her love of real estate, LaDawn began her career several years ago. Specializing in residential real estate, her strong work ethic, coupled with her enthusiastic attitude, has gained her a reputation as an agent that is greatly in demand. For those planning to buy or sell a home, her character, knowledge and credibility help prospective buyers or sellers make the most informed real estate decision of their lives.
LaDawn makes her home in Dexter, where she resides with her husband of 31 years. She has two grown sons as well as two beautiful daughter in laws. She is also blessed with one grandson. LaDawn has served on the Stoddard County Board of Real Estate in the past and is currently a member of the Three Rivers Board of Realtors.

Dee Loflin, SMT Manager/Editor
Dexter, Missouri - Jennifer Miller, student adviser of the Dexter High School Student Council was recognized as the Southeast District Student Council Adviser of the Year at the Southeast District Convention held at Cape Central High School on October 29th.
The Southeast District encompasses all high schools and middle level schools in the 17 counties of Southeast Missouri.
Miller has been a Student Council Adviser at Dexter High School for the past 12 years and has served as the Southeast District board member on the Missouri Association of Student Councils Advisory Board for the past four years.