The TIC was closed yesterday afternoon.  A transformer had blown in the area leaving us with no electricity and of course no air conditioning.  Not a good day to sit inside the caboose so I took a rare Sunday afternoon off. Pat Johnson had a good day at the center Saturday.  She had 11 visitors and sold several post cards.  I certainly appreciate her allowing me to attend my family's reunion. The reunion was great.  67 in attendance.  Faye Frazier from Yukon, OK and is 94 was the oldest cousin there.   Two weeks left in July.  I' anxious to see if we top last July's attendance record. Caroline Sutherland Laus Deo

We reached the middle of July with a great visitor count - - - 167 for July, 2567 since March 1. A lovely  couple from Oslo, Norway stopped in on their way to Branson.  It is always great to meet and welcome folk from foreign lands.   The rains have finally returned, and we are back to our beautiful green hills.  It is still very hot, but we are so very thankful for the rains. Today I will be attending the annual reunion of my mother's family.  Volunteer Pat Johnson will be on board the caboose today.  She has is really helping me out during this time of losing two of our volunteers.  I appreciate her so very much. Caroline Sutherland Laus Deo

July has started off with a bang at the center.  137 visitors from the 1st until closing yesterday. This brings our YTD total to 2237.  If it would just rain, all would be great.   Caroline Sutherland Laus Deo

June was a great month at the center.  464 visitors signed the guest book and 91 picked up maps during our closed hours.  This brings our total visitor count since March 1 to 2191.  A very good month.  Some of the states represented were Alaska, Delaware, Texas and Minnesota. Two couples from Australia on their way to Branson were our  visitors this month.  They were 'so enjoying your beautiful county.' Graduations at Fort Leonard Wood brought in several families going to or returning from the ceremonies.  Always a pleasure to be able to thank folk for the sacrifice they are making to serve our nation.   We're expecting a busy 4th of July weekend.  Car shows, tractor pulls on Saturday and the big annual fireworks display and K95 give away at the football field Sunday afternoon and evening will provide plenty to do and see.  Have a great 4th!! Caroline Sutherland Laus Deo