love letter issue no. 56

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LoveoveLETTERLIssue No. 56 • Summer 2012

Inside This Issue:

www.RMHCozarks.org

Construction Underway on Springfi eld’sSecond Ronald McDonald House®

In late March, construction began on our second Ronald Mc-Donald House®, located on the 6rh fl oor of Mercy Children’s Hospital in Springfi eld. Mercy has provided over 8,200 square feet of space for the new House that features 10 bedrooms, each with its own

bathroom. Mercy is also contribut-ing signifi cant ongoing operational support including utilities, phone and Internet service, linens, towels and maintenance services. RMHC® of the Ozarks is responsible for the costs of infi ll, furnishings, supplies, on-going staffi ng and remaining

operational costs. “We are looking forward to furthering our long-standing relationship with Ronald McDonald House Charities® of the Ozarks,” said Jay Guffey, Chief Operating Offi cer of Mercy Hospital Springfi eld. “Partnering to provide

House Manager, Donnetta Ghys with William and Kennedy Vaught of Kirbyville, MO at the Mercy Ronald McDonald House press conference. The Vaughts stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for over 5 weeks when their baby brother, Wyatt was hospitalized.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

LoveLetter • Summer 20122

Board Of DirectorsDavid Hamm, Chairperson

Bob Fisher, Vice ChairpersonDoug Carter, Secretary

Barbara Houser, Treasurer

Brian Asberry Marita PembertonGretchen K. Cliburn Donna PowersAndrew Covington Rob Rector Jean Grabeel Tim RothSherri Murdaugh Micah ScottAngie Patrick David Taylor

President & CEO Bonnie KellerProgram Director-Ronald McDonald House

Staci HollandHouse Manager Donnetta Ghys

Associate House Manager Bailey ShawProgram Director-Ronald McDonald

Care Mobile Mindy MuñozEvent Coordinator Adrienne McCoyDevelopment Assistant Kim BoothAccounting Manager Debbie Kinser

Comunications Assistant Karen DomanAssistant House Managers

Lauren Divine Brent StockMorgan Jensen Sheridan ThurmanAngela Hill Randi Villines

Board Of DirectorsDr. Aaron Dannegger, Chairperson

Dr. Tom Hoff, Vice ChairpersonJoseph Reid, Secretary

Wyatt Jenkins, TreasurerDr. Bill Brell Dr. Craig ScottMark Brueggemann Dr. Howard ShayneDavid Hamm Dr. Megan Westrich

President & CEO Bonnie KellerProgram Director Mindy MuñozGeneral Dentist Dr. Sarah Cimino

Temporary DentistsDr. Bill Brell, Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Aaron DanneggerDr. Tom Hoff

Offi ce Manager & Dental Assistant Davina EasterDental AssistantsMegan Lambert Laura Polocoser

Part-Time Dental AssistantShannon Rogers

A Message From thePresident & CEO

We are thrilled to

re-introduce the LOVE LETTER, our biannual newsletter for sup-porters of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks. Over the past few years, we’ve been hard at work helping families at the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South; treating and educating little patients on the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile® (also known as the “Tooth Truck™”); and bringing plans to fruition for the construc-tion of Springfi eld’s second Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Chil-dren’s Hospital.

Despite the tough economic times, YOU’VE BEEN THERE to en-sure that our programs continue to help children and families in need. WE ARE TRULY INSPIRED by the many ways you offer your support. Every night, one of our Family Dinner groups provides a wonder-ful meal for all of the families at the Ronald McDonald House. Day after day, we witness the generosity of individuals and businesses that contribute on-going fi nancial and in-kind gifts. Over 120 dedicated volunteers support the operations of the House and the Tooth Truck, not to mention dozens more that

are there for our events. And our boards of directors and staff dem-onstrate their commitment each and every day. How blessed we are to witness these and many more ways you give of your time, trea-sure, expertise and hearts!

So many of you have increased your support to help build the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy and we are truly grateful for your kindness and confi dence as we once again grow our organization to help hundreds more families of seriously ill children each and every year. For those of you just learning about our new House, we hope you will consider being a part of making this new “home away from home” a reality.

We hope you enjoy this issue of the LOVE LETTER. We’re honored to name each and every one of you as members of our RMHC Family.

Sincerely yours,

Bonnie KellerPresident & CEO

P.S. Every previous issue of the LOVE LETTER is posted on our website at www.rmhcozarks.org, News and Events tab. It’s a great trip down memory lane!

The mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of the Ozarks is to create, fi nd and support programs that directly improve the health and well being of children in the Ozarks. Our fi rst priority is to provide a “home away from home” for families of seriously ill and injured children receiving treatment in Springfi eld’s medical facilities. Our fi rst Ronald McDonald House, located near Cox South Hospital, has helped over 8,000 families during the past 24 years. Our second House will be located on the 6th fl oor of Mercy Children’s Hospital and will open in late-Fall 2012.

RMHC’s second cornerstone project, the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®, (fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”), provides dental treatment and prevention education for children that qualify for the free and reduced school lunch program in the Springfi eld area. The Tooth Truck has helped 13,000 children over the past 10 years through 34,000 dental appointments and treatment valued at $7.6 million.

The LOVE LETTER is published biannually by Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks, Inc.Graphic Design made possible through a gift from ADsmith Communications.Page Design contributed by Debbie Lane.

The following trademarks used herein are owned by McDonald’s Corporation: Ronald McDonald House Charities name and logo, Ronald McDonald House name and logo, Ronald McDonald Care Mobile name and logo, RMHC, McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald. The Tooth Truck name and logo are owned by The Tooth Truck, Inc.

LoveLetter • Summer 2012 3

The Tooth Truck Celebrates10 years of service!

A special celebration for the 10th anniversary of the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”) was held on July 10 at the Boys & Girls Club Musgrave Unit in Springfi eld. Over 200 Boys & Girls Club kids and staff, the media and Tooth Truck and RMHC board members and staff joined in the festivities, which included singing “Happy Birthday” to the Tooth Truck. Thanks to Ronald McDonald House Manager, Donnetta Ghys, and the House volunteers, delicious sugar-free cupcakes were served to all in attendance.

Launched in July 2002, the Tooth Truck is a full-service dental clinic on wheels for children that qualify for free and reduced school lunch. Enrollment in Medicaid is not a requirement for treatment.

The Tooth Truck primarily visits lo-cal schools; 25 locations in Spring-fi eld as well as schools in Billings, Clever, Republic, Walnut Grove and Willard. In the summertime, children served by local agencies such as Boys & Girls Club, Boys & Girls Town and the Missouri Hotel are provided with dental treat-ment. The philosophy of the Tooth Truck is to fi nd the children most in need, restore their smiles 100%, place as many sealants as pos-sible, provide extensive prevention education, and then encourage and assist patient families to fi nd a per-manent dental home. During the past 10 years, the treatment plans of over 13,000 children have been completed through nearly 34,000 appointments and dental treatment valued at $7.6 million.

All services provided by the Tooth Truck are free to qualify-ing patients. The operating budget exceeds $600,000 annually, 45% of which is underwritten by Medicaid reimbursements. The remaining $330,000 is supported through generous donations from the com-munity, including major support from the Greater Springfi eld Dental Society, the All-Star Smiles Ser-toma Club and the Rotary Clubs of Springfi eld. The Tooth Truck staff encourages families to enroll their children in Medicaid to help supplement needed funding for the Tooth Truck and so families may seek ongoing medical care for over-all good health.

For more information, contact Mindy Munoz, Program Director, at 417-875-3504 or [email protected].

Boys & Girls Club Musgrave members Gage and Phillip enjoy their sugar-free cupcakes at the Tooth Truck’s 10th anniversary party.


Tooth TruckWish ListPlease consider underwriting an item on our Wish List. For details, contact Mindy Munoz at 417-875-3504 or [email protected].

Shore Power Connection ($1,800) 6 needed for new sites

Replacement Trim and Handles for Tooth Truck Cabinets

Cloud Ceiling Panels ($250 each)Walmart Gift Cards for general suppliesDVDs for ages 10-14 years to view

during treatmentHandheld Games for use in waiting areaTooth-Brushing Models for educationSmall Prizes for prize bin, especially

those for boysNew Handpiece System ($12,500)Statim Sterilizer ($8,000)

The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile is proud to announce the successful launch of an in-school tooth-brushing program in October 2011 at Springfi eld Public Schools’ Early Childhood Shining Stars Center. The goal of the program is to start teaching children at a young age the importance of good dental hygiene in order to achieve healthy, bright mouths and smiles. The Tooth Truck staff worked closely with school staff, teachers, and classroom aides to facilitate ap-

Pilot Tooth-BrushingProgram Launched

some, they struggle with sen-sory issues so simply holding the toothbrush in their hand for one minute was a huge step. Volunteers spent six days in the classrooms and in that time, huge strides were achieved. Children who initially refused to brush their teeth were soon the fi rst in line. Each child now recognizes that brushing time is part of his/her daily schedule and looks forward to it. One parent shared that her child is now letting her brush his teeth at home when

proximately 200 students brushing each day in their classrooms.

Seventeen volunteers from the Tooth Truck, Ronald McDonald House and the community commit-ted their time working one-on-one with students to offer hands-on support and encouragement for them to establish a daily brushing regime in the classroom setting. Volunteers directed each child to obtain the toothbrush, apply tooth-paste, and thoroughly brush his/her teeth while offering words of praise. Many of the children have special needs and were hesitant to participate on the fi rst day. For

before it was a constant struggle. The Tooth Truck supported the

program through monthly and as-needed site visits, in addition to providing all brushing and storage supplies. Thanks to the ongoing commitment of the school’s teach-ers and staff, we expect these chil-dren to experience fewer cavities and overall increased self-esteem and dental health, and hope that the habit of good oral hygiene is implemented consistently in their homes. Due to the success of the pilot program, the in-school tooth-brushing program is being expand-ed in the Fall of 2012.

Isaac is proud of his beautiful, healthy smile.

General Dentist Dr. Sarah Cimino and Dental Assistant Laura Polocoser help prepare patient Aiden for his dental appointment. The Tooth Truck staff works hard to ensure each child has a positive dental experience and helps equip him or her to establish healthy dental habits.


RMHCozarks.orgVisit Our New Website!

We’re pleased to announce the launch of our brand new website at www.RMHCozarks.org and it’s packed with information about ev-ery aspect of our Ronald McDonald Houses and the Tooth Truck. You can download a volunteer applica-tion, tour the Tooth Truck through a child’s eyes, learn how to get involved in our Family Dinner Program, make an online donation, and much more!

The design of the website is the creation of ADsmith Commu-nications, an ongoing contribu-tor to Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks. We espe-cially love the home page header (shown above), created by Senior Art Director, Shannon Perryman. The programming of the site was made possible through a signifi cant discount from Darren Furr, also the

contributor of the Taste of Adven-ture website (www.tasteofadven-ture.org).

Over the next few months, we have several video additions planned. You will meet our Room Sponsors for the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital and we’ll continue our weekly Road to Mercy House con-struction updates (see right) gener-ously sponsored by Rick’s Automotive. You’ll also be able to tour both Ronald McDonald Houses online.

We hope you’ll take a few moments to visit our new site. Be sure to sign up for our

Ronald McDonald House

Wish ListPlease consider underwriting an item on our Wish List for the House near Cox South. For details, contact Donnetta Ghys at 417-875-3501 or [email protected] towards Replacement of

Original WindowsPillows (Standard Size)Metal Shower Rings Paper TowelsClorox Wipes

email list (www.rmhcozarks.org/contact-us). You’ll be the fi rst to re-ceive all of our news and updates.

Spray DisinfectantDish DetergentLaundry DetergentLaundry BasketsRubbermaid Containers

(Various Sizes)

Ziploc Bags (Various Sizes)SilverwareFrying Pans1-inch White BindersBroomsMopsCopy Paper (8½” x 11”)


Gift Registries help furnish the New Ronald McDonald House

Silverware, plates, towels, pots & pans … the new Ronald Mc-Donald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital needs it all! We’ve set up Gift Registries at four locations that contain all of the items needed for our future guest families. All

GIFT REGISTRY INSTRUCTIONSDillard’sRegistry number: 12573277620% Discount off our registry items. ONLINE: Search “Registry” in the box at the top right. On registry page, enter Ronald (fi rst name), House (last name,) and Find. Ronald McDonald House registry shown in blue. Click on link.

Kohl’sRegistry number: 168451415% Discount off our registry itemsONLINE: Click on Gift Registry. Click Special Days and enter Ronald (fi rst name), McDonald (last name).

WalmartRegistry number: 86170592051ONLINE: Hover cursor over registry and select “Wish List” (third option below Baby and Wedding). Enter Ronald (fi rst name), McDonald (last name), and Find. Select Ronald McDonald House from registrant list.

TargetRegistry number: 017399100774955ONLINE: Go to Target Lists (NOT Registries). Click on Advanced Search (small blue letters in “Find a Target List” box. Select “by organization” and enter “Ronald McDonald House” and select Missouri. Click Search. When the list comes up select Ronald McDonald House, created for Ronald McDonald House- Mercy Hospital Springfi eld.

we are missing is YOU! See the instructions below about how you can access the registries and pur-chase your “Housewarming gift” OR you can host a “shower” at your home, church or business. Please join us in making our new

Ronald McDonald House a wonder-ful home! For more information, contact House Program Director, Staci Holland at 417-875-3521 or [email protected].

The fi rst “shower” benefi ting the Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital was held on April 3 at the home of Nancy Back. Dozens of guests enjoyed a wonderful spread of homemade fi nger foods and desserts provided by our hosts, Nancy Back, Terri Libel and Kristy Bowenschulte. We are grateful for the many wonderful gifts we received that are needed to make our new House a home.

The future exterior of the new Mercy Children’s Hospital is shown above. The new Ronald McDonald House will be located on the 6th fl oor and will be completed in late Fall. First fl oor construction is expected to be completed in December 2012 and will feature the St. Jude Clinic, as well as food service, retail and research areas and the Teddy Bear Club. The second fl oor will be completed in 2013 and will contain a Pediatric Outpatient Test & Treatment Area and Child Life support services. A future construction timeline will be determined for the 5th fl oor, which will contain 24 inpatient beds.


Ronald McDonald House near Cox SouthHelps 8000th Family

During the month of July 2012, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital welcomed its 8,000th family. Over the past 24 years, this “home away from home” has helped families of seriously ill and injured children receiving treatment in Springfi eld hospitals during a time of unspeak-able hardship.

As we look towards our 25th anniversary on March 20, 2013, we would like to thank our friends at Cox South and the thousands of individuals, groups and businesses that have made the Ronald McDon-ald House possible. After opening debt-free in 1988, the House has continued to be blessed by the citi-zens of the Ozarks with donations of time, resources and talents. Our families express their thanks in so many ways for a warm, loving refuge, home-cooked meals every night of the week by generous

folks from the communi-ty, and the daily support of our 100+ volunteers and staff.

Through the work of STRY.us, we’d like to share the story of the Crigler family from Alton, MO. (STRY is a new type of news organi-zation in pursuit of great storytelling.) Beginning Febru-ary 18, 2012, the Criglers found a temporary home at the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South for 46 days after the premature birth of their son, Stormy. He was born at 26 weeks gestation weigh-ing 1 pound, 12 ounces. About her family’s stay at the House, Stormy’s mom, Bobbie said, “They always had a place for me. I would just have to call on my way up and they would have something ready. If it wasn’t for them, I don’t know

what we would have done.” We hope you’ll take a few minutes and ready the Crigler’s story at www.stry.us/stories/a-second-home-on-the-medical-mile. We can’t think of a better way to demonstrate the many ways you have impacted the lives of people like the Crigler fam-ily ---- now multiplied 8,000 times!

We thank all of our wonder-ful supporters. You’ve done great things for thousands of families who need you.

The Glendale Interact Club provided two meals for our families in January 2012. They chose to participate in our Family Dinner Program to better serve families and children going through diffi cult times in their lives. It was the perfect way for them to work together and serve others in a special way. Interact is Rotary International’s service club for young people ages 12 to 18.


Special thanks to our initial supportersof the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Children’s Hospital

Springfi eld’s second Ronald McDonald House is a long-awaited project that has been discussed for many years. RMHC and Mercy formally committed to building this “House within a hospital” in 2003. As Mercy Hospital’s growth rapidly increased, the plans for the timing and location of the Ronald McDon-ald House understandably changed on more than one occasion. To ensure long-term success, it became critical that the plans for the Children’s Hos-pital coincide with the building of the Ronald McDonald House. Once the timing was just right, the completion of architectural plans, bidding of the project and establishment of the project budget all took place within four short months and construction began in late March.

On behalf of the Ronald McDonald House Charities Board of Direc-tors, Chairperson David Hamm announced a 12-month fundraising goal of $1,824,689 at a press conference on March 29, 2012. This goal includes construction, fi ttings, furniture, supplies and the fi rst year of operating expenses for the new House. As of July 20, over 40% of the goal has been raised. We’ve been blessed with many generous contrib-utors, some willing to pledge support to our project as early as 2003 without knowing where the House would be located in the hospital, the opening date, or the project budget. Thanks to the strong support of Mercy, we can assure our donors that their investment in the House will be long-lasting. If hospital growth requires the House to be moved before a period of 25 years has passed, the House will be reconstructed in the new location at no cost to Ronald McDonald House Charities and all origi-nal donors will continue to be recognized for their support.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following generous supporters that are making the new Ronald McDonald House a reality!

Cash Donations$50,000 - $99,999McDonald’s Ozark Co-Op

$20,000 - $49,999Dan & Lisa Blumenstock and Kris &

Wendy DavisonFuldner Family FoundationDr. Bernard & Regina GriesemerLouis & Caroline GriesemerGuaranty BankNorma Hilburn, Andi Hilburn-Vaini and

Marc VainiThe Kemper FoundationChip & Teresa McGeehanMercy Clinic Force for GoodDonna J Powers Family FoundationOzarks Coca-Cola / Dr PepperRMHC of ARKOMAState Farm Agents of Southwest

Missouri*John Widiger, Chuck Wiersch and John

Youngblood

$5,000 - $19,999Associated Electric Cooperative, Inc.Empire BankClayton & Bonnie KellerRoy & Terri LibelMark & Angie PatrickJames & Barbara Squires

$1,000 - $4,999AnonymousEvelyn CloseCarpenters’ District Council of Greater

St. Louis & Vicinity Commerce Bancshares FoundationCoventry Health Care, formerly Mercy

Health PlansTom & Susan EssmanHillcrest Presbyterian ChurchBrett & Barb HouserAnn HowardRobert & Suzanne IsraelKirkpatrick, Phillips & MillerMcAnany, Van Cleave & PhillipsMercy Hospital 2007 Sunshine RunNeale & Newman, LLP

2005 Ozark Upper Elementary Student Council

Mark & Angie PatrickRotary Club of Springfi eld SoutheastSilver Dollar City “Pennies from the

Porch”Walmart FoundationBob & Debbie Williams

ContributorsTerry & Kim BoothJulie BoyceJulie ClarkSharon CombsDavis, Lynn & Moots, PCGreg DeGoodElkland Christian ChurchPaul & Shawn FryDarren & Lea Ann GeeAmy Grubaugh, in memory of Neal

GrubaughGayle HoogstraetTim & Debbie Kinser, honoring Dick,

Sherley & Rich BottKnights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary

#9533

Margaret & Mike LicataMarshfi eld Optimist ClubMorgan Restaurants, Inc.Gay RossMichelle Sappington, in loving memory

of JesseLinda SchieberSpringfi eld Public Schools School NursesJami Uhlman

In-Kind Gifts$50,000+Mercy Hospital Springfi eld

$20,000 - $49,999Ashley Furniture HomeStore, Andrew

Covington

$1,824,689

$1,000,000

$500,000

$1,500,000

Goal: $1,824,689Current: $756,667


The NeedOur fi rst Ronald McDonald

House is located near Cox-South Hospital, approximately 3 miles from Mercy Children’s Hospital. Over 25% of fami-lies served at our fi rst House have children being treated at Mercy Hospital and over 95% of these families have premature babies and high-risk pregnancies. For most families of ill children being treated in Mercy’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Burn Unit and St. Jude Clinic, the anxiety of being so many minutes away from a critically ill child is overwhelming. For these parents, the new Ronald McDonald House within the hospital will give them the op-portunity to rest and recharge, regardless of whether or not they will be using overnight accommodations. They will have the reassurance that their ill child is down the hall or an elevator ride away and they will allow themselves to get the rest they need, refuel, and do everything possible to care for their ill and injured children. With the estab-lishment of the new Ronald McDonald House within the walls of Mercy Hospital, we can fi nally fulfi ll our mission with the vast majority of the families of seriously ill chil-dren receiving treatment in Springfi eld. As we fulfi ll the physical needs of our guests each day with shelter and other amenities, we know that meeting others who truly understand, eating meals together that are prepared by volunteers, and the knowl-edge that generous contribu-tors are willing to make the House a reality brings a heal-ing to their spirits and hope to their lives.

In-Kind Gifts (continued)$20,000 - $49,999DeWitt & AssociatesHeideman AssociatesStahl & PonderTempur-Pedic

$5,000 - $19,999ADsmith CommunicationsAmerican Olean TileAmticoBrian AsberryCIS Data ServicesCrossvilleInterior Planning ConsultantsInterMetro Industries CorporationLa-Z-BoyLaborers Local Union #663Marshall-Waters-WoodyObelisk HomeRick’s AutomotiveStanley Security Solutions

$1,000 - $4,999American DetectionBenjamin Moore & Co.Binswanger GlassFOX KRBK-TVThe DuPont Company – Corian Solid Surfaces

ContributorsBrandsourceLori ChisholmDr. Bernard & Regina Griesemer

*Rob Akers, Jim Anderson, Giana Andrews, Linda Andrews, Doug Baker, Toshua Barnes, Victor Beasley, Katherine Bell, Kathy Binkley, Bob & Carolyn Bishop, Mike Breeding, Mario & Vera Brichalli, Sandra K. Brown, Business Research Group, Kylee Campbell, Scott Chase, Bryant Chastain, David Coday, Chet Cornelison, Charles Crider, Matthew Davidson, Phil Davidson, John & Barbara Farrar, William Foster, Edgar Freund, Lance Haight, Jeff Hammock, Fred Harle, Fred Harris, Clint & Amanda Harris, Jennifer Hazelrigg, Burlin & Arlene & Hefl ey, Jordan Heinz, J. Kyle Hickam, Fred Hynes, Bill Johnson, Wes Knell, Chuck Medley, Wayne & Susan Moberly, Jeffrey Montgomery, Frank Orellana, Shane Parker, Lori & David Peitz, Randall Peper, Jim Peters, Jerry Poston, Jim Reed, Ronald Reynaud, Joe Robles, Jr., James Roebuck, Karen Rutledge, Marjorie Slayton, Vic Stuart, Tony Williams, Karla Woods, Kris Yocum

Charlie & Frances IglioKeurig Coffee Maker & K-CupsMillikenRolland Safe CompanySpringfi eld Blue Print & Photocopy

Gift Registry DonationsIn-Kind GiftsAlpha Delta Pi- Gamma Mu ChapterNancy BackPhyllis BaileyBeta Sigma PhiTerry & Kim BoothBradley & Kristy BowenschulteCarlee BrownLarry & Lynn BurkSarah CarderRod & Marilyn ChanaJulie ClarkPeggy ClemonsKitty CriderCheryl DoranEarly Childhood CenterEastside General Baptist ChurchKaren FeteMike & Debbie FreemanJohn & Carolyn GerdesCaroline GriesemerOlin & Margaret GroomsBess HamiltonCarolyn HamiltonTana HazenJann Holland

Cash DonationsRandall & Teresa BaileyTom & Suzy BarrBernard & Roberta BrownellMarilyn BurkhardtKaren BurmoodGuy & Betty CallawayKevin & Kerri CornerJoanie CutbirthCurt & Julie EvensonRose FosterPaul & Debby FreimanGifts from the HeartLarry & Paula GlossipCaroline GriesemerDavid & Sandra HarrisonNorma HartmanArthur & Karen HawesDuane C. HellamDonna HowellSally JenkinsJeanie KleemanLoretta KnutsonSusan MetzgerThomas & Marcia NelsonLeAnn RensScott & Mary RhodesSue RollinsBeth RutherfordGreg & Charlotte ShiremanTeri SickmyreGary SoderbergWilliam B. StockerLarry & Maryann Wakefi eldDavid & Donna WilliamsJ. Mark WilsonRMHC Board Chairperson, David Hamm,

announces the fundraising goal for the new Ronald McDonald House at Mercy at a press conference on March 29, 2012.


Local high school athletes were featured in two all-star events June 1st and 2nd at Springfi eld’s Parkview High School. Football all-stars competed for the 11th year in the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC (GIC), (that’s right ... it’s “GRIN” rather than “GRID”), an East vs. West competition Friday, June 1 at JFK Stadium. NEW THIS YEAR was a girls’ all-star volleyball tour-nament on Saturday, June 2 in the Parkview High School gymnasium – the Sertoma GRIN ACTION CLAS-SIC (GAC). This All-Star Weekend featured 126 graduated high school seniors and 24 coaches competing with some of the best athletes in Southwest Missouri.

The West Team took home the victory for the GIC, winning 38-18. It was a very exciting game! The West Team MVPs were Sam Re-hagen from Nixa for Offense and Isaac Samek from Bolivar for De-fense. The East MVPs were Malachi Daniels from Branson for Offense and Michael Salts from Camdenton for Defense.

The GAC North Team claimed the title of the GAC Tournament. They went undefeated for the day and beat the West Team in a thrill-ing championship game. The MVP

for the North Team was Claire Quinn from Glendale and Hannah Blount from Carthage was named as the West Team MVP. The MVP for the South Team was Maddie Baumann from Clever and the MVP from the East Team was Cal-lie Lowry from Logan-Rogersville.

About the “GRIN”? The GRIN IRON CLASSIC (GIC) and the GRIN ACTION CLASSIC (GAC) benefi t the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (also known as the “Tooth Truck). Although the competition was the main attraction, the GIC also featured tours of the Tooth Truck, the National Guard color guard and tricycle races, a visit from Ronald McDonald®, concessions and com-memorative programs and t-shirts.

The GRIN IRON CLASSIC was presented by Delta Dental of Mis-souri and the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club. Other sponsors included the Greater Springfi eld Dental Society, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Great Southern Insurance and Spring Valley Dental Care. The new GRIN ACTION CLASSIC

All-Star WeekendBenefi ts the Tooth Truck

L to R: Adrienne McCoy, Event Coordinator and Bonnie Keller, President & CEO are shown during halftime at the Sertoma GRIN IRON CLASSIC, accepting the annual Greater Springfi eld Dental Society gift and sponsorship for the Tooth Truck from their Board President, Dr. Darren Mahaffey.

was also presented by the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club and sponsored by Distinctive Dental Solutions. Both events were also sponsored by The Team, McCann Printing, Mediacom, KOLR-KOZL, Price Cutter, Mercy and McDon-ald’s. Hosted by the SW MO High School Football Coaches Associa-tion and the All-Star Smiles Ser-toma Club, the GIC and GAC raised nearly $50,000. For information about the 2013 events, contact Event Coordinator Adrienne McCoy at 417-875-3522 or adrienne.mc-coy@ronaldmcdonaldhouseorg.


this opportunity inside our hospital to families of our patients is some-thing we are very excited about at Mercy, and we are thrilled to be moving forward with this vision we have shared for many years.”

The House features large com-mon areas, including a Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Playroom, Gathering Room, Laun-dry Center and public restrooms. A new pediatric intensive care unit will be built right next to the new House. Each night, ten families may stay overnight in the Ronald McDonald House. Families not requiring overnight stays are welcome during daytime hours to catch up on e-mail, have a snack or meal, do laundry, take a nap, and most importantly, have some downtime to talk with family, friends and other guest families in

similar situations who truly under-stand. This daytime-only feature al-lows Springfi eld families to benefi t from the Ronald McDonald House.

David Hamm, the Board Chair-person of Ronald McDonald House Charities feels strongly about the efforts of the board, volunteers and staff over the next 8 months to complete the $1.8+ million fund-raising goal. “I know from personal experience how much the Ronald McDonald House means to families of ill children,” said Mr. Hamm. “It is truly an honor to serve as the or-ganization’s chief volunteer offi cer as we work towards bringing this second Ronald McDonald House to many more families in need.”

RMHC President & CEO Bon-nie Keller, served as the Volunteer Executive Director during the con-struction of Springfi eld’s fi rst Ron-

Construction Underway on Springfi eld’s Second Ronald McDonald House(Continued from Page 1)

ald McDonald House. “The support of Springfi eld and surrounding communities is amazing to wit-ness,” said Mrs. Keller. “Nearly 25 years ago, our fi rst Ronald McDon-ald House near Cox South Hospital opened debt-free, thanks to the generosity of the people of the Ozarks. We urge everyone with a heart for our mission to help repeat this success with our second Ron-ald McDonald House.” We hope you can join us in making the new House a reality. There’s a donation envelope in this newsletter OR visit www.Road2MercyHouse.org to download a pledge form. For more information, contact Bonnie Keller at 417-875-3503 or [email protected].

The new Ronald McDonald House will begin helping families in late Fall of 2012.


Thank You On behalf of the thousands of children and families whose lives are touched by the Ronald McDonald House of the Ozarks and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (fondly known as the “Tooth Truck”), we extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our generous supporters. The pages of this LOVE LETTER include contributor names for gifts received from January 1 through April 30, 2012. If we have inadvertently omitted your name, please let us know by calling 417.875.3503.

The Home Depot Team has volunteered with our Family Dinner Program for over 12 years, serving warm, home-cooked meals for our families and children.

Brett and Charles Fancher are excited to take their beautiful daughters Jade and Jazmine home after a two-week stay at Cox South ICN. Former Assistant Manger Emily Carter with Ronald House volunteers Kim Stagner and Sondra Uzzell enjoy holding the girls one last time before they go home.

Ellie Webb celebrated her 8th birthday by asking for donations for the Ronald McDonald House instead of gifts. Ellie raised $200 for our families and children.

RMHCMajor Cash DonationsMcDonald’s Ozark Co-OpRMHC Global

Cash DonationsErica BauerSapphire Vending, Inc. Dennis & Eileen PeggHeather Varner

McDonald’s Donation Boxes(formerly “Collection Canisters”)Joyce LathropMcDonald’s-(Aurora)McDonald’s-(Ava)McDonald’s-(Battlefi eld & 65)McDonald’s-(Battlefi eld Mall)McDonald’s-(Battlefi eld)McDonald’s-(Berryville)McDonald’s-(Bolivar)McDonald’s-(Branson Hills)McDonald’s-(Branson Main)McDonald’s-(Branson West)McDonald’s-(Branson-248)McDonald’s-(Branson-76)McDonald’s-(Buffalo)McDonald’s-(Camdenton)McDonald’s-(Cassville)McDonald’s-(Chestnut)McDonald’s-(E. Sunshine)McDonald’s-(Eldorado Springs)McDonald’s-(Eureka Springs)

McDonald’s-(Forsyth)McDonald’s-(Gassville)McDonald’s-(Harrison)McDonald’s-(Hollister)McDonald’s-(Houston)McDonald’s-(Independence)McDonald’s-(Kearney)McDonald’s-(Kingsley)McDonald’s-(Lebanon #2)McDonald’s-(Lebanon)McDonald’s-(Marshfi eld)McDonald’s-(Monett)McDonald’s-(Mt. Vernon)McDonald’s-(Mtn. Grove)McDonald’s-(Mtn. Home McMart)McDonald’s-(Mtn. Home)McDonald’s-(Mtn. View)McDonald’s-(N. Glenstone)McDonald’s-(Nixa)McDonald’s-(Osage Beach)McDonald’s-(Ozark)McDonald’s-(Republic)McDonald’s-(Rogersville)McDonald’s-(Rolla Hypoint)McDonald’s-(Rolla McMart)McDonald’s-(Rolla)McDonald’s-(S. Campbell)McDonald’s-(S. Glenstone)McDonald’s-(S. National)McDonald’s-(Salem)McDonald’s-(Seymour)McDonald’s-(Sprfl d-C65)McDonald’s-(Sprfl d-K44)McDonald’s-(St. James)McDonald’s-(St. Robert)McDonald’s-(Strafford)McDonald’s-(Thayer)McDonald’s-(W. Battlefi eld)McDonald’s-(W. Sunshine)McDonald’s-(Waynesville)McDonald’s-(West Plains-Porter)McDonald’s-(West Plains)McDonald’s-(Willard)McDonald’s-(Willow Springs)

Community Donation BoxesChildren’s Orchard

Wishing WellsMcDonald’s-(Battlefi eld Mall)McDonald’s-(Ozark)

Ronald McDonald HouseBequestsChristine Drake Estate

In Kind Gifts: Building & Equipment FundBinswanger Glass

Major Cash DonationsBNSF Railway Company Roger HowardClear Channel Radio: KGBX,

KGMY, KXUS, KTOZDaiwa Capital MarketsDillard’s, Inc.David & Kimberly HammKohl’s Cares for Kids

Cash DonationsRoger & Kimberly AllenAnonymousBank of America - Matching GiftsBolivar FCADoug CarterRoger & Lisa ClarkCoca-Cola CompanyCowden Elementary SchoolCrazygoodErica EatonDiane EpkeMichael & Ellen FinchSheena FollowillScot GabrielTodd & Donnetta GhysJ.D. & Jacqueline GillenwatersPeter HavilandMichelle HensleyJohnnie & Jeana HerbertJDP Management Company, Inc.Carol JohnsonJames JonesLeah KimberlyCharles KimmelDale & Kimber KyleMark Twain ElementaryMindy McFarlandTodd MelaNixa High School-Helping Hands

ClubBambi OliphantOzark BankRob & Kelly RectorJim & Laura RoweDavid SanfordMary SmithSpringfi eld Area Retired Teachers

AssociationSpringfi eld Lutheran SchoolMiranda TharpThe Log Works Dewey & Carrie HostetlerCarolyn Joan ThornhillRobert & Gena VickRena WattsKim Zimmerman

Memorial ContributionsMary Lu Adams byCox Urgent Care

J.T. Atkinson byJack & Marianna Cotten

Dorothy Atwell byMartha Frost

Kim Ebrite byDelores James

Sam Grisham byNorma Hilburn

Myrna Hauer byThelma May Yandell

Jay Johnson byRuth Ann Johnson

Blanche Lefl er byJoann Laux

Michael Robert Lemieux byCarla Bean

Rev. Fred Lynn byBeulah M. Erwin

Irene Salsman byDenis & Diana Neumayer

Darrell Sligar byDenis & Diana Neumayer

Kenneth G. Squire byJim & Barbara Cook

Ruth Taylor byDelores James

Gifts of TributeChip & Teresa McGeehan’s

Anniversary byJim & Joan Cologna

Jim & Donna Erwin byBeulah Erwin

Debra Parrish byBeulah Erwin

Underwritten Guest Room FeesRev. & Mrs. W.T. Robison, in

memory of Kevin Robison

2011 Annual CampaignADOPT A ROOM FOR A YEARAnonymous

ADOPT A ROOM FOR A QUARTERRobert & Suzanne Israel in

memory of Ralph & Dulcie Israel and Paul & Lois Campbell

To see a listing of donations received since our last newsletter was published in 2008 through December 31, 2011, you can access a special supplement to this LOVE LETTER at www.rmhcozarks.org/news-events/newsletters.


Joe & Marilyn Post

ADOPT A ROOM FOR A MONTHDecker & DeGood P.C., Greg

DeGoodKelley & Nancy McKenzie

MAJOR CONTRIBUTORSBonnie AtteberryDon & Ernestine Doss

ADOPTION OF A FAMILY FOR ONE WEEKJoseph & Lesa RothgebMelvin & Linda Walker

ADOPTION OF A FAMILY FOR ONE NIGHTTerry & Jill BoundsLoren Clayton, in memory of

Dorothy RookPete & Sandy EmbertonEugene & Nancy Getlin, in

memory of Scott PhillipsMedley & Company, in memory

of Rosemary MedleyPaul & Judee Steward, in memory

of Nathanel James Bruner

CONTRIBUTORSJames & Cathy AshcraftJulie ClarkKaren CowanGale & Becky EdwardsMr. & Mrs. Wayne EllisJohn & Jean GreerHDR Engineering, Tom RyanMichael & Neva HillLake Dental ClinicAntoinette Lambert, in memory

of Daniel R. KinnairdJeremy Neely & Angela WhitesellRyan Hamby Appraisal Service, in

memory of Shelby Rous

2012 Share a Heart Campaign PRESENTING SPONSORMcDonald’s of the Ozarks

SPONSORSCoxHealthGreat Southern Bank

KTTS RadioKY3McCann PrintingMid-Am Metal Forming

CONTRIBUTORSThousands and Thousands of

McDonald’s CustomersAdvance Physical TherapyAnonymousGary BoulchCommunity First BankDistribution SolutionsRichard & Tina GilbertGreat Southern BankJack & Jennifer HartmanGene & Teresa JonesLindsay Chevrolet Inc.Brian & Mary LivingstonMain Street Service Center, Inc.Medley & CompanyTroy & Monica MillerMiller Hardware CompanyNational Art ShopNational TV Furniture &

AppliancePepsi Bottling Group, Inc.Bryan PowersProfessional Realtors GroupSC Seasoning Company, Inc.Dwayne & Lisa SherrerJames SprottChristiana StarnesJoseph StarnesFred WatermanJames & Clair WelchJuanita Woodson

MAYORS PROCLAIMING “RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE WEEK”Mayor Dr. John Best of Bolivar,

MOMayor Jeff Braim of Gassville, ARMayor Gary Brown of Salem, MOMayor Brian Buckner of Republic,

MOMayor Wayne Cantrell of

Seymour, MOMayor Bob Clark of Marshfi eld,

MOMayor Sam Clifton of Nixa, MOMayor Jack Cole of Rogersville,

MOMayor Delbert Crewse of

Mountain Grove, MOMayor Jeff Crockett of Harrison,

AR

Mayor David Eden of Mount Vernon, MO

Mayor Joe Paul Evans of West Plains, MO

Mayor Doyle Ferguson of Aurora, MO

Mayor Jamie Goforth of Lebanon, MO

Mayor Cliff Hammock of Waynesville, MO

Mayor Tracy Holle of Cassville, MO

Mayor William Jenks of Rolla, MO

Mayor Penny Lyons of Osage Beach, MO

Mayor Eddie Maggard of Ava, MOMayor Andrew Mead of Buffalo,

MOMayor Tim McKinney of

Berryville, ARMayor Linda Miller of Licking,

MOMayor Shane Nelson of Ozark,

MOMayor Gentry D. North of

Camdenton, MOMayor Jim O’Neal of Springfi eld,

MOMayor Jim Orr of Monett, MOMayor David L. Osmon of

Mountain Home, ARMayor Morris Pate of Eureka

Springs, ARMayor Ron Potter of Forsyth, MOMayor Raeanne Presley of

Branson, MOMayor Bud Rogers of Thayer, MOMayor George Sanders of St.

Robert, MOMayor Don Tottingham of

Houston, MOMayor Tom Vicat of Strafford, MOMayor Bud Vines of Mountain

View, MOMayor Dennis Wilson of St.

James, MO

SHARE A HEART FAMILIESThe Albright FamilyThe Angel FamilyThe Bradshaw FamilyThe Burk FamilyThe Cantrell FamilyThe Collins-Ramsey FamilyThe Evans FamilyThe Ferreri FamilyThe Gault FamilyThe Groom FamilyThe Higginbotham Family The Huffman FamilyThe Johnson FamilyThe McIntire FamilyThe Miller FamilyThe Noell FamilyThe Nofsinger FamilyThe Pitchford FamilyThe Reeves FamilyThe Revelle FamilyThe Richards FamilyThe Ross FamilyThe Scrimshire FamilyThe Terrill FamilyThe Terrill-Aborn FamilyThe Tice FamilyThe Wendel FamilyThe Wheeler FamilyThe Zimmerman Family

2012 Taste ofAdventureADVENTURE EXPO PARTICIPANTS417 GunsArchery Quest

Backcountry Outfi ttersBott RadioClear Creek VehiclesDynamic EarthA.R.I.S. Home & Energy

Inspection ServicesLiberty BankMercyRefl ections TaxidermyThe Rosewood ShopSpringfi eld-Greene County Park

Board Community Olympic Development Program

Verdigris Valley Outfi ttersWebb’s Guide Service & KAST

Inc.

CHECKPOINT SPONSORS- $5,000417 GunsAnonymous DonorAnonymous DonorBackcountry Outfi tters Kido SafarisMercy The Team, Inc.

TRAILHEAD SPONSORS- $2,500Archery Quest Ashley FurnitureElephant & CastleFerrell-Duncan ClinicIntegrity Home CareMG HuntingThe Charlie O’Reilly FamilyRC SalesByron & Cindy RogersThe Rosewood Shop

TABLE SPONSORSDan & Susan CarterDan’s Discount Drug MartThe ExchangeHavens Commercial, LLCThe Taylor Hayes FamilyBruce & Debra HedgepethBob & Dani HelmJared EnterprisesMed-Pay, Gordon KinneDr. Rob MerrittRedeemed Music & BooksSecond Baptist ChurchStancer InvestmentsJack Thurman

STEERING COMMITTEEJoseph Cookinham, ChairmanGary BeetsKim BoothRay CaliendoShawn GottTaylor Hayes

Michelle HeidtStaci HollandGreg HortonBonnie KellerAlea KilgoreAdrienne McCoyTim RothChaz SetzerJanet Sterling

CONTRIBUTORSA to Z RentalADA Fundraising SalesAl Vorst ElectricA.R.I.S. Home & Energy

Inspection ServicesAshley Lauren Salon & SpaAviary Café & CreperieBass Pro Catalog OutletBaymont Inn & Suites (Branson)Beaver Creek Elk & CattleBMAXBranson Guided Fishing TripsRay Caliendo, Black Widow BowsCentral High School Media:

Intelligence StaffChateau on the LakeCity SpatiqueClass Act Management, Chip

McGeehanClaythorne LodgeCoppersmith, Inc.Countryside CottageCoventry InsuranceCox HealthRandy CrockettCruisin’ 66D’Arpino’sDistinct DetailDiVenturesDo Outdoors, Inc.Don Orrell Stirrups, LLCDynamic EarthFin & FeatherFisk LimousineFloat Trip PicklesFlying FeathersGreg GardnerG.E.O. AdventuresGuildmasterDavid & Kimberly HammHayes FamilyHendrix Handmade Knives,

Wayne HendrixHillbilly Holler Custom CallsGreg & Kim HortonHy-VeeIMAXIsland Green Golf ClubChef Chadwick IsomJim Rogers’ Fly Fishing SchoolJimm’s SteakhouseJust Fishin’ Guides

Former Tooth Truck Board Member and temporary dentist, Dr. Wade Wheeler, shares a smile with Campbell Elementary student Haylei.

Insphere Solutions learned about the Ronald McDonald House while touring our “home away from home” and presented a check for $2,000 to House Manager, Donnetta Ghys.


Bonnie KellerKaren’s KreationJohn & Tina KentKOLR-10KSPRLiberty BankLinda’s FlowersMcCann PrintingMcDonald’sMeeks Building CentersEileen MeinsenMerry MaidsMetropolitan GrillMikayla’s GrilleMillwood Golf & Country ClubMissouri EmbroideryMissouri Sports Hall of FameMurder Rock Golf & Country ClubNational Wild Turkey Federation (Show-Me Chapter)Oldfi eld Meat PackingOnestringerOrange LeafOzark AdventuresOzark Knife MakersOzark Shooters Sports ComplexPerformance CyclePinnacle Sign GroupDonna PowersQdobaRefl ections TaxidermyRick’s AutomotiveRockbridge Rainbow Trout RanchSafari Off-RoadSapphire Vending, Inc. (Dennis & Eileen Pegg)Schaffi tzel’s GreenhousesJoan SchroederSilver Dollar City AttractionsThe Sound of Freedom USASpringfi eld 11 & IMAXSpringfi eld Bike CompanySpringfi eld Leather Co.Stancer DesignsSubway, Ken & Michelle StrausTanger OutletThe River Fitness CenterThe ThicketThe Tower ClubTracker Marine GroupTwilight GrilleVerdigris Valley Outfi ttersWebb’s Guide Service & KAST,

Inc.Zen 3 Spa & Bodyworks

AUCTIONEERNick Sanders

MUSICLonesome Hollow BandThe Kilgore Sisters

WEBSITEDarren Furr

VOLUNTEER GROUPSAlpha Delta PiDelta Delta DeltaFCA Friends & VolunteersPhi Eta SigmaOzark High School FCARonald McDonald House Friends

& VolunteersSigma Phi Epsilon

IDENTITY & PRINT MATERIALS DESIGNThe Team, Inc.

EMCEESJoe & Christine Daues

EVENT CASH DONATIONSBrent & Melody BallMark & Debra BurgessDan & RaeAnn CannefaxHank & Kim CarterAndrew CovingtonBonnie FosterJerry & Monica FurgesonGreg & Kim HortonJeffrey & Amber LoweHugh LynasDavid & Janice MeierRob & Jane MerrittDennis & Lorie MillerMissouri Storm Shelters, Inc.Robert & Carrie MorganDon & Toni OrrellShirley RambinGreg & Lohnya RippeeByron & Cindy RogersPaul & Brenda SchneiderSteve & Elaine SchulkeBarry SmithRoss TaylorKenneth & Bobbi Anne TerryDr. & Mrs. Mark Wilson

2012 Volunteer DinnerCASH DONATIONSBrian AsberryDr. Bill BrellMark BrueggemannGretchen CliburnDr. Aaron DanneggerJean GrabeelDr. Tom HoffBarb HouserWyatt Jenkins

Sherri MurdaughAngie PatrickMarita PembertonDonna PowersRob RectorDr. Craig ScottMicah ScottDr. Howard ShayneDavid TaylorDr. Megan Westrich

IN KIND GIFTSADsmith CommunicationsBecker & Scott, DDSBeth’s Bake Shoppe & Tea RoomCoxHealth Turner Women’s

CenterD & K Flowers, Etc.Dharma Day SpaDeWitt & Associates, Inc.East Sunshine Church of ChristThe Epps FamilyTodd GhysHome DepotTim & Debbie KinserLowe’s of Springfi eldMeek’sNick Sibley MusicPromotional Products of the

Ozarks, David PomerenkeRMHC Board of DirectorsRose & Associates AdvertisingRobert & Laura ShawSheridan ThurmanTooth Truck Board of DirectorsZen 3

Family FundPop Tabs

In Kind GiftsA to Z Party RentalsGlena AdmireADsmith CommunicationsKaris AgnewKaren AlexanderAnonymousAquarium Consultants, LLCArctic RefrigerationJana Kay AtteberryDenise & Jeremy BaileySheri & Norman BellBinswanger GlassBissell Homecare, Inc.Makayla BlakeyRick & Kathy BoonevilleBreadsmithJunior & Joyce BrixeyMartha BrooksJohn & Susan ByrneMike & Wanda CampbellSherry CantrellCelebrations by SonjaClever United Methodist ChurchColonial LifeConvoy of HopeCulligan of Springfi eldCWP-LIFTDennis & Evelyn DavisDillons FloralDisney Store-BransonJennifer DoliberDougherty & Associates/

Ameriprise FinancialDonna ElliottPam ElsaesserPaul & Machell EngelSusan EnglertPaula EymanFarm Bureau Insurance-Tammy

LoweryVicki FergusonFirst Christian ChurchBud & Alice FisherJennell Fredrick

Theresa GabrielGalloway Full GospelGarden Adventures NurseryKelli GarrettTodd & Donnetta GhysGreg GoddardDonn & Lori GossShawn GottJacque HaikMarla HaikDavid & Kimberly HammWendell HawxbyRuth HertzbergStaci HollandTrudy HoltkampHope Lutheran ChurchAnn HowardDanny & Linda HydeCharlie & Frances IglioAshley JenkinsNancy JohnsonSarah JohnsonDoris JorgensenMatthew & Norma KastnerPatty KeenerTim & Debbie KinserKohl’s A TeamMarilyn LarryLayer 3 TechnologyJake & Jessica ListonDonald Luman & Mary ScarlettCharles & Diana MahaffeyJill MarcumMauricesShannon MawhineyDave & Pat McBethMcDonald’s Ozark Co-OpRachel McGinnisWanda McLaneMike & Zachary McMeleyMediacomSusan MeyerMissouri Farm Bureau FederationMSU Greenwood Laboratory

SchoolMSU/RHANational Art ShopNixa High School Helping Hands

ClubOzark Anesthesia AssociatesPacifi c Coast Clearing ServicesParkview High SchoolPat Jones YMCAJane PerrymanPleasant Panther Neighborhood

ClubPrince of Peace Lutheran ChurchProfessional Answering ServiceRoger & Agaytha PryerChristie RaineyDonald & Ilene RaphaelReckitt Benckiser Customer

Service

Reeds Spring High SchoolRick’s AutomotiveCliff RickettsRidgecrest Baptist ChurchRobberson Prairie Baptist ChurchMark RoseRoto-RooterEric & Rebecca SandgrenSchendel Pest ControlSteve & Elaine SchulkeBailey ShawJoy ShepardTom ShirleyRonald A. & Nancy SilviusCarolina SimmonsJeremy, Brandi & Grady SmithSouthside Church of ChristSpringfi eld CaresSpringfi eld Stamp & EngravingSpringfi eld Workshop, Inc.Thomas & Mary Jo StaleySunset Church of ChristSweet Life CookiesElfrieda TetersThe Frosted CupcakeThe TeamThe Toy BankNakita & Nakyra UnderwoodWal-Mart #444Wal-Mart of NixaWeaubleau SchoolsCarmen WhorleyJudy WilliamsMandi WilsonWorthley & Co.Sally YostKathy YoungZion Lutheran Church

Family DinnersAlpha Delta Pi-Gamma Mu

ChapterMelody BallCentral High School Kilties GroupChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter

Day Saints Sina Brenadine Teril Peterson Debra WilkinsonCovenant Presbyterian ChurchCox South Labor & DeliveryDemocrats for the OzarksLibby DevaneyDougherty & Associates/

Ameriprise FinancialMychelle & Cory EckelsEmmaus ChurchAmanda Estrada & the Katrosh

FamilyEvergreen Baptist ChurchFedEx Trade NetworkGalloway Full Gospel

Tooth Truck Offi ce Manager, Davina Easter and McGregor student Madison are silly over their beautiful smiles.

Paradise Preschool donated pop tabs to benefi t our House Family Fund and Tooth Truck Patient Needs Fund.


Gamma Sigma Sigma Sorority Delta XI

Girls of Grace Bible StudyGlendale Christian ChurchGlendale High School Girls

Service SocietyGlendale High School Interact

ClubGloria Deo AcademyAubree GoodGreater Metropolitan Missionary

Baptist ChurchGreene County 4-H Teen CouncilHeartland Covenant ChurchHillcrest Presbyterian ChurchHome DepotJust FriendsKickapoo High School FCCLAKickapoo High School Student

CouncilKnights of Columbus #10200Knights TemplarKohl’s A TeamJoy & Josh LaBrieGina McClanahanDanny & Shannon MendelNatalie MooreMSU EDC ClassMSU Golden Key National Honor

SocietyMSU Marketing DepartmentMSU Pre Med SocietyMSU Social Work ClubMSU Student Athletic Trainers

AssociationMSU Women’s Soccer TeamMSU Alpha Phi OmegaNational Society of Collegiate

ScholarsWilliam & Francie NewcombOld Missouri BankOperation Give BackJulie PappenfortParkview High School FCCLAPat Jones YMCAPre-Health Professions Club

(Drury University)Republic High School FCCLARMHC Board of DirectorsSchweitzer Methodist Church Life

GroupSecond Baptist Church Sue Keller GroupSimmons First National BankSouth Gate Baptist ChurchSoutheast Mom’s Club

SRC Community RelationsSRC LogisticsThe GirlfriendsUnion Hill Church Of ChristUnited HealthcareVictory Baptist ChurchKenny & Crystal WadeWal-Mart of NixaScott, Joanna, Abigail & Lucy

WeitzelWest Division St. Baptist ChurchWest Division Street Baptist

ChurchWillard High School FFA

Pop TabsBonnie AdamsAlpha Delta KappaAmerican Legion 637AmVets Auxiliary Post 116Brandon AndersonTony AndersonAnonymousAva Middle SchoolKameryn BainJoshua BarnesJD & Millie BarnhouseJoan BaxterBayta’s BuddiesBillings Elementary SchoolMakayla BlakeyBlue Eye Elementary SchoolJan BondJohn BowlesMike BoyleBradford Veterinary HospitalBrown DerbyRaven CaptainFlorence CartwrightCentral Elementary SchoolJulia ChanceJohn ChapmanChrist By The Lake Lutheran

ChurchRoger & Lisa ClarkClever United Methodist ChurchLaurie ColeKevin ColemanDiane CoonMarcie CottrillCox North Adult Psych IICox North Business Offi ceCox South PediatricsCox South Health Information

ManagementCoxHealth Admissions South

CoxHealth Ambulatory Infusion Center

Crosslines of Springfi eldDisabled American Veterans Aux.Disney ElementaryDiversifi ed Plastic Corp.

EmployeesDrury UniversityEarly Childhood CenterElk’s Ladies LodgeAl & Becky EmerineMarnie FarmerChris FecteauDorotha FeuerbornFirst Baptist Church of GainesvilleFirst Christian ChurchRobert Fletcher & FamilyFraternal Order of Eagles #3934Rob, Cheryl & Elliott FrederickRichard FulpGalmey VFW Post 9638Becky GillhamGirl Scout Group Troop 10250April GockeJack & Victoria GoodpastureGreystone GraphicsMarla HaikLeta Harmon & The Overcash

FamilyKathryn HarringtonJames & Amber HerdHoly Spirit Lutheran ChurchHope Lutheran ChurchCharlie & Frances IglioJohn & Vicki InmonJ & M Custom CarpentryMillie JacobsJDP Management Company, Inc.Cherry JenningsGeorge & Patty JenningsJesus Inc.Marshall KennardLucas KincyNancy KreegerMelanie LaddLake Stockton Health Care FacilityLakeland Regional HospitalJeff LarsenWilliam LasiterLathrop & Gage LLPKale, Kailee & Danny LawrenceLegion Post 138William LeJeune & Emily RainsLogan-Rogersville Middle SchoolDonald Luman & Mary ScarlettMark Twain ElementaryMarshfi eld Care CenterKurt & Jerry McDonaldMcDonald’s-(Lebanon)Scott McLaughlinMike & Zachary McMeleyJon MeinsenMercy Hospital Springfi eldMercy Corporate Health &

WellnessMOCICJerry, Kerrigan & Mallory MortonNational Heights Baptist ChurchNelson-Wilks-Herron Elementary

SchoolNewborns in NeedBrittanie NicholsNorwood R-1 School Elementary & Middle SchoolsOur Lady of the Cove Catholic

ChurchOxford Health Care Ozark Winnie Travel ClubOzarks Peacemakers Quilt GuildKent & Ashlea PalmerJulie PappenfortPat Jones YMCAMissy PaytePeace Lutheran ChurchCurtis PellhamDebbie PerryTeresa & Annie PierpontPleasant Hope FCCLA

Pleasant Panther ClubPleasant Panther Neighborhood

ClubPleasant Panthers ClubShirley PlumbPomme De Terre Shrine ClubBob & Rosalie ReahrReeds Spring High SchoolReeds Spring Middle SchoolRobin ReevesNick ReinagelRepublic Elementary School

(Lyon)Rusty & Joy ReynaudRichland PreschoolShaw ElectricShell Knob SchoolJoy ShepardKathy ShostSilver Dollar City AttractionsMike, Melissa & Lauren SlambSteve, Jennifer, & Samantha SmithOrchid SollenSouthside Church of ChristSpringfi eld Area Retired Teachers

AssociationSpringfi eld Lutheran SchoolSt. Joseph Catholic ChurchStockton Christian ChurchStudy Middle SchoolSunset Church of ChristTangles Hair SalonTelComm Credit UnionTelecom PioneersTelephone Pioneers-Branson

Tri-LakesTexas County Memorial HospitalEvan & Shauna TindleJoan TurnerKayla TurnerUnion Hill Church Of ChristUSDA Rural Development

EmployeesViolet Chapter #480Natalie WandWesley United Methodist ChurchWillard Central ElementaryWillard East ElementarySally Yost

Ronald McDonald Care MobileMajor Cash DonationsGreater Springfi eld Dental

Foundation

Cash DonationsJames & Cathy AshcraftDoug CarterPete & Sandy EmbertonHome Economists in

Homemaking ClubWyatt & Christina JenkinsRob & Kelly Rector

Community Foundation of the Ozarks Springfi eld Metro Grant ChallengeBrian AsberryBKD FoundationMark & Debbie BrueggemannDan BurnsCommunity Foundation of the

Ozarks, Inc.Dr. Aaron DanneggerJames & Pamela GesslerDavid & Kimberly HammStaci HollandClayton & Bonnie KellerDr. Josh MontgomeryMark & Angie PatrickSteve & Marita PembertonDonna PowersMark Ringenberg

Tooth Truck Patient Needs FundPop Tabs

In Kind GiftsAlpha Delta Pi-Gamma Mu

ChapterCity UtilitiesCulligan Bottled Water of

Springfi eldEarly Childhood CenterFirst Impressions PrintingHarps RVShirley MaddenPressure Clean Corp.Professional Answering ServiceRandy, Debbie, & TJ SlocumSpringfi eld Underground

Gifts of TributeBetty W. Floyd, R.N. byMarla J. Floyd

Tooth Truck patient, Teddy stops by Bowerman Nurse Cindy’s offi ce to show off his new prize for being cavity-free!

The Slocum family volunteers at nearly every RMHC event throughout the year! TJ is also our Share a Heart Champion, raising more than $10,000 for the Ronald McDonald House in 2012 alone! (L to R: Randy, TJ and Debbie)

PMS 193 PMS 179 PMS 116 PMS 375 PMS 298 PMS 2577

Love LoveoveLETTER

www.RMHCozarks.org

Upcoming Events:

NON-PROFITORGANIZATIONUS POSTAGE

PAIDSPRINGFIELD, MO

PERMIT NO. 76

Ronald McDonald House Charities949 E. Primrose St.Springfi eld, MO 65807

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

17thAnnual Cup O’Cheer Homes Tour Friday, November 16, 2012

20th Annual Share a Heart CampaignJanuary 25-February 28, 2013

4th Annual Taste of Adventurebenefi ting Ronald McDonald Houseand Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Saturday, March 9, 2013

This is Suni and her name fi ts her perfectly. Her parents, Regina and Matthew Richards stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for nine days due to a severe seizure Suni experienced soon after she was born. She is now a strong, healthy baby girl!

love letter issue no. 56

Documents

new house

ronald mcdonald house

mercy hospital spring

operational costs

bill brell

ongoing operational

construction underway

loveletter summer