Opinion

Strutted in my tailored scales this weekend at the annual Cassville Chamber Banquet. The sweet southern sounds of the 221 Band had my tail flipping all night, and I was relieved to see pork, brisket and chicken on the menu — no fish! I want to congratulate my friend David Cupps on his Lifetime Achievement Award. His speech was a tear jerker. According to unoffishial reports, leakage from Cupps and others in the room has led to a 6-inch rise in Roaring River Spring. Thanks for keeping our dogs, cats, cows, horses and fellow trout alive, David!

I love public education! As a product of public education in Missouri and a board member of Cassville R-IV School District, I find the impact and the concept of offering all children in our state an education to be amazing and life changing. Other than my parents, some of the greatest influences on my life have been educators.

I’ve survived my 10th Opening Day! It was great to see all my friends, like Scott Hettinger and Joel Topham and even Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe. Thousands of my brothers did not make it, but their sacrifice is not in vain — it’s in butter and oil!