Upcoming projects discussed at Sheldon Community Betterment Committee meeting

The Sheldon Community Betterment Committee discussed upcoming projects during Monday's meeting.

Photo by Lisa Hinkle | Daily Mail

President Phyllis Sprenkle convened the Sheldon Community Betterment Committee meeting on Monday, Aug. 28.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was President Sprenkle's report on the progress of Dueling Silos, the Bed and Breakfast owned and operated by Kelly and Neal Gerken. She stated that within its first two months of operation, Dueling Silos has enjoyed remarkable success. Sprenkle noted that the establishment had been consistently booked every weekend over the past two months, with only one exception.

President Sprenkle then shifted the committee's attention to a pressing matter raised by Kelly Ast of the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (WCMCAA). Ast had informed Sprenkle about a shortage of volunteer drivers within the agency. These drivers play a crucial role in assisting senior citizens and individuals with disabilities by providing transportation to medical appointments, physical therapy sessions, pharmacies, grocery stores, banks, and other essential destinations. Notably, volunteer drivers receive compensation at a rate of $0.655 per mile. President Sprenkle encouraged anyone willing to volunteer with WCMCAA to step forward, emphasizing the agency’s profound appreciation for such support.

Committee Member Marlene Moran added to the discussion, drawing attention to the Neal Center in Nevada, which is also in dire need of drivers. The Neal Center requires more drivers to deliver meals to senior citizens throughout the county, including those who rely on Meals on Wheels. Moran echoed Sprenkle’s sentiment, urging individuals to consider volunteering for this vital service.

In another community-focused update, President Sprenkle reminded the committee about the upcoming Big Serve project weekend, scheduled for the fourth weekend in September. This charitable initiative aims to help individuals in need with tasks such as house painting, yard maintenance, window cleaning, and various other property-related projects. Interested individuals seeking assistance through the Big Serve project can complete the necessary paperwork, and volunteers will be dispatched to provide the necessary support.

Sprenkle then highlighted Sheldon School’s commitment to increasing community outreach projects. These initiatives are designed to provide students with the opportunity to contribute positively to the community while simultaneously addressing pressing local needs. The committee expressed unanimous approval of this report.

Turning to matters of fundraising, Sprenkle reported that the “Old School” Project is launching a sponsorship program for T-shirts. Individuals interested in becoming sponsors can do so for a fee of $50, with their names listed on the back of the shirts. The committee readily approved this report.

Discussions regarding the construction of the next brick Memorial Wall in City Park revealed that there are currently insufficient orders to proceed with its installation. President Sprenkle sought the committee’s input on interim actions while awaiting additional orders to complete the Wall. The committee decided to table this discussion for a future meeting.

Sprenkle took a moment to acknowledge the generous contributions made by individuals and businesses toward the “Old School” Project during the Sheldon Picnic. These contributions supported various initiatives, including the Bingo stand, Cornhole Tournament, and Pie Auction.

In closing, Sprenkle announced the upcoming Ozark Food Harvest Drive, scheduled for Thursday morning, Sept. 7. Additionally, she informed the committee of the return of “Harvest In The Park” on Saturday, Nov. 11, from 1 to 5 p.m.

The committee concluded the meeting by approving its adjournment, with the next meeting scheduled for Sept. 25.