Last week's column was about the annual barbecue and auction to be held last Sunday at the McGennis Youth Center. As I promised you, the barbecue was really good. The meal was prepared by Neil Steiner, of the Flaming Lantern, Butler. Neil and I were both reared in the same area -- Neal was a few years behind me. There were approximately 110 who went through the line.

One of the purposes of the event is to show people the center and it really looks good -- except for the dry weather. The new swimming dock that was discussed is a great addition to the swimming area -- what a difference! The auction was a great success. The center made approximately $4,000 from the auction, which is comparable to last year.

Board member Randy Bell said that they were well pleased with the auction, especially since the attendance was affected by the extremely hot weather.

It is amazing how well the auction was supported, by both the donors of the sale items and the generosity of the buyers. Jars of honey brought as much as $30 for a jar. Pies sold for as much as $25 or more. There were a large number of items that brought comparative amounts. Folks, that is a good sale. The volunteer auctioneer was Larry Hacker. All of the proceeds go toward maintaining the center and development.

An important event got left out of the column last week and should have been included. This Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, August 10, 11 and 12, a play will be held at the Red Barn Theater, "Murder Can Be Habit Forming." It will be directed by Rhonda Headley, a teacher in the Hume School district.

Not every year a play is held at MYC, but this is the year that one will be held. A great amount of appreciation goes out to Rhonda for her willingness to direct the play. There is no doubt, with Rhonda directing the play and the crew she has to work with, but what it will be a great event to attend. It will certainly be entertaining and fun.

Ronda was asked what type of play is it. She answered, "It is a comedy --that is all we ever do. Even if a play is written seriously, it will be a comedy at the Red Barn Theatre."

In the play, a group of travelers get caught in a storm and find shelter at a nunnery. One of them is a serial killer. The only persons he kills are those with the name of Mary. The nunnery happens to be the Order of St. Mary -- all of the nuns are named Mary.

Rhonda says that all of the regulars are up to their normal acting -- it is enjoyable. Sharon Tourtillott is the Rev. Mother; Thad Glenn is the surprising cop. Eugenia Brocka is the senile old nun -- Eugenia does not like to be called old. If you have ever seen Eugenia act, you will know that she will perform her role in a great manner -- she is a riot. It is worth going to the play to watch her perform.

Once again Bob Schlyer will be performing in the play. His role is a crotchety old caretaker. He will also fit this role well and will be fun to watch. Eugenia and Bob are being picked on more as I am better acquainted with them, then Sharon and Thad.

There are others in the cast. Virginia Habjan recently said that the play will be different each night, because you cannot predict what the cast will do. This is a performance that you do not dare to miss.

Rhonda said that the play falls on the heals of the barbecue. Those attending the event last Sunday could get an idea that there will be a play this weekend or the group might be playing. The background to the stage looks like it is a nunnery.

The group has been practicing since June, so they have been putting a great amount of time and effort into the program. While it usually is cool at the MYC, this year it has been hot for practice. There have been times in past years that it was cold at the center during the play, requiring jackets and blankets.

Attending this play is unique. During intermission there will be ice cream, drinks and desert available at the concession stand inside of the barn. It gives those in attendance an opportunity to visit with others. After the intermission the play will continue.

A ticket for the play is $3.50 for adults: $2 for students. Saturday evening there will be a community smorgasbord. Those bringing a dish will have a $1 discount on the ticket. It is suggested that those attending take lawn chairs.

For an evening of good wholesome entertainment, attend the play being held at the Red Barn Theatre. Unfortunately, even though I had looked forward to attending the play this year, there is something else on the schedule to prevent me to attend.

The Mary A. McGennis Agricultural Park and Youth Center depends on financial support from private sources. If you did not get to attend the barbecue and auction last Sunday and wish to make a donation to the center, send your contributions to Carl Steiger, treasurer, P. O. Box 7, Rich Hill, MO 64779. It will be appreciated.