A great facility we have in Vernon County is the McGennis Youth Center, located north of Metz. Though it is not known by many folks, to me it is one of the greatest things that we have.

Last week, the column was, "Keeping the Dream Alive." It contained information from the board‚s annual report with information about the dream Miss Mary McGennis had for the center when she donated 160 acres of land to the youth in the area and how that dream is being kept alive.

One of the first major events held at the center was "The Flag Raising Ceremony." This was held on the first Sunday in August. A flag that had been flown over the National Capital was raised at the center. As I recall Frank Graham, state 4-H Leader was the speaker. As a worrier, I worried that it might rain and spoil the event. As it turned out it was a great event and there was not any reason to worry.

That was the beginning of an annual event that has been held on the first Sunday in August. As I recalled there was one time that the event was moved to the Metz School Cafeteria, because of rain.

Many years it has been extremely hot on that particular date, last year was no exception, held during the drought. It kept some people from attending, including my neighbors who had planned to attend. According to the annual report the annual barbecue is to be held Sept. 30. Randy Bell has been chairman of this event for a number of years.

For a number of years, the auction has been held in conjunction with the barbecue. Heading up this event for the first time was Robert and Gretchen Wells. Until this year, Robert Schlyer had headed up the event since it began. He was there to answer questions for the Wills and to help. Larry Hacker and Bob Wingate volunteered their services as auctioneers. Once again it was a successful event, raising approximately $4,000 for the center.

Another $4,100 was made from the food stand at the Rich Hill Fourth of July celebration. Manned by volunteers the stand sold hamburgers, hot-dogs, pop, "waling tacos" and other items to the large crowd. Boys from the Rich Hill Youth Development Center also worked a shift.

Part of the acreage at the center was used for farming by Denver Westerhold. The net income for the center during the year, including the corn, hay and USDA payments was approximately $3,200.

The Old Barn Theatre can be "Habit Forming." The McGennis Old Barn Theatre "under the stars" was held Aug. 10, 11, and 12, with the production of "Murder Can Be Habit Forming." The Right Reverend Mother Superior was played by Sharon Tourtillot. The performance was directed by Rhonda Headley. As usual the event provided good entertainment with those in the play having a great time.

Robert Willis, representing Bates County, was elected as president of the board. He had served as vice president during 2006. Virginia Habjan, who had served as president, was elected as vice president. She is a representative on the board from Vernon County. Debbie Balk, representing Vernon County, was re-elected secretary. Carl Steiger, representing Bates County, was re-elected treasurer, and Debbie Balk, representing.

In the plans this year, in observance of 40 years since Miss Mary donated the land to the center, is a fund drive to raise $40,000. The board is to be complimented for coming up with this program and launching it this year. It is a good goal and appropriate; the obtaining of the funds is a necessity for further development and maintaining the center. There is a need to give opportunities to more people to invest in the center. As our population grows in this country, there will be a greater need for facilities of this type to serve youth. Any amount of contribution will be of benefit to the center.

Virginia said that the funds raised will be for a small tractor and mower, plumbing repairs, barn and cabin renovation and restroom update. She said that they will be applying for matching grant funds to help stretch the donated dollars.

Recognition for donors are Carpenter's Helper, $0 to $100; Carpenter, $101 to $499; Craftsman, $500 to $999; and Developer, $1,000 plus. McGennis Youth center is a 501c3 not for profit organization and donations are tax deductible. Donations may be mailed to Carl Steiger, treasurer, Box 7, Rich Hill, MO 64779.

For additional information, contact a board member. The board members representing Vernon County are Greg and Eugenia Brocka, Jennifer and Scott Byers, Denver and Jane Westerhold, Debbie Balk and Virginia Habjan.

To use the facilities for picnicking and/or camping, it is recommended to call for reservations at (417) 484-3216. Patrons are welcome without reservations, but reservations have priority.

You are invited to help with the 40/40 program. Your help is appreciated.