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Brownstown-Sefton News

A Sad Farewell to “Pricey”…
…our beloved and sweet great pyrnese. “Pricey,” was beautiful in appearance, with her thick and long white coat, her baby seal-like large dark eyes, and in her sweet and lovable disposition.
She was 9 years old, and still acted much like a younger dog.

After her illness and surgery last summer (when she spent the whole summer on the closed-in porch which we kept cool for her with an air conditioner), she has seemed to fare very well, eating good – she was responsive to us, alert and acting normally.
I had placed a plastic lawn “loveseat” in her pen when she was a puppy, so I could sit with her and read.
She soon took over the seat and it was her favorite place to be. As she grew, she took over the whole seat.
I could never get a picture of her on her seat, because when she saw me coming, she would jump down and run to the fence to meet me.
She had been cleaning her food dish, eating her treats and wagging her tail when she saw us.
When she didn’t eat her breakfast on July 3, we figured it was due to the hot weather. When she didn’t eat the next morning, on July 4, we still thought it was the weather, but we stayed home and Bill watched her closely that day.
When she appeared to be weak in her hips area, we took her to our vet, Dr. Bristow,  the next day. Her friend, Dr. Lynette Hemker, who had worked so hard to save her last summer, examined Pricey and began treatment, keeping her at the clinic.
As Pricey always missed us as much as we missed her, they always encouraged us to visit her whenever we wanted to.
We visited her the next day, and although she kept raising her head to look at us and did walk outside with us, she was not doing good.
The next morning, Dr. K called us and had a report on her blood work. Pricey’s condition seemed to be deteriorating rapidly.
When Pricey saw me walk in, she was lying down on her side, but she wagged her tail, and when she saw Bill behind me, she wagged it again.
It was the last time she wagged her tail.
I sat down on the floor with her, and, with an obvious effort, she would raise her head and put it close to my face, looking right into my eyes, still with the devotion she has always shown.
An X-ray revealed she had a tumor on her liver, a large one crowding her intestines and on into her lung. There had been no sign of them last year.
The only merciful thing to do was to tell her goodbye, because we loved her. We believe she had been trying to tell us goodbye, in her own way, because she loved us.
We stayed with her and brought her back home to rest beside the path she and I would always walk going into the woods.
The grief is still felt, as with anyone who loses a beloved pet. We miss seeing her in her seat as we go on the lane.
We miss her “woof” when she was on her shift of duty at nighttime. Her mother, Bertha, and Pricey would alternate keeping guard at night.   
She was so good-natured she would tolerate anything the veterinarians and staff had to do to her, sweetly and patiently.
I had often thought on these very hot days, it seemed a shame to take these beautiful dogs from their natural, cool-mountain environment, into our hot summers.
However, I am so thankful that Pricey was in our lives the past nine years. She was a birthday present, the most precious one I ever received, and the one that I will never forget.
We appreciate Dr. Hemker for staying with Pricey, and us, until the end; the compassion and kindness of them all; and Dr. and Carol Bristow, for the beautiful card they sent us.
And thank you to our readers and friends who have been asking about her. We know of others who have recently lost their pets, and our hearts are with you, also. Each one is precious.
Brownstown Library Historic Houses Walking Tour….
…was very interesting and well-presented by Lana Claggett Potter, in spite of the hot weather,, which necessitated the change in the original plan.
Twenty-five people braved the hot temperature to gather at the Brownstown Library at 1 p.m. Rather than setting out to walk on the tour, Lana Potter gave interesting and through histories of the Darnell, Griffith, Torbeck and Martin houses in the comfort of the library.
She then invited all to ride in their cars, if they wished, to tour the homes of Chan and Kelli Newell  and of Vernus Lytle, where they would also view the interior of the homes. Some hardy souls chose to walk.
Kelli Newell’s mother, Paula Brunk was on hand to talk about the house and served welcome refreshments.
(My glass of water accidently spilled on the hardwood floor of the dining room. With the kind help of others, it was quickly mopped up, and I asked for a moment of silence to give thanks the spill did not occur on the lovely white carpet of the entrance way.)
We then went on to the arts and crafts style house of Vernus Lytle, which also has an interesting history. Vernus served several choices of  homemade pies to the appreciative guests.
Both hostesses were very gracious and welcoming to the tour group. A great experience and well worth the excursion into the hot weather.
Roses to…
…Connie Torbeck, for providing the through and interesting histories of the houses on the Historic House Walk; to Lana Potter, for her great presentation of the histories; to the Friends of the Brownstown Library and all who worked hard behind the scenes to provide us with the experience; and to First National Bank of Brownstown for sponsoring the Walk.
Coming & Going
Catching Up with the Puleos & Debbie
Wanda reports that the Japanese beetles destroyed what would have been another huge plum crop, but the blueberries were the best ever, and Wanda got them before the beetles did. No peaches this year because of the late freeze in May and very few apples. The tomatoes were planted in super-duper soil, and are almost as tall as Ken. There are tomatoes in there, but in hiding among all the foliage.
Ken and Wanda Puleo and Debbie visited with her mother, Ethel Pittman at Dix recently. Wanda’s brother, Phillip, is still coming up to work on trying to get the trees cleared farther back from her house from the May 25 tornado.
Phillip has had a family and friends get-together every fall with potluck, cookout, weiner roast and hayrides along a spooky trail through the woods spread over 80 acres.
With the damage that was done through the two different woods, most of the roadways have been blocked off by fallen trees, some of which were more than150 years old. He has been spending a couple of hours in the early morning, with his chainsaw and tractor, working to clear the roadways that started from paths made by horses and cows when Ethel and her husband, Harry Bruce, purchased the family farm in 1929. It is a labor of love for Phillip and appreciated by the family.
On the weekend, the Puleos and Debbie went to Alton to visit her sister, Wilma Greene and husband Marion. Wilma has had many health problems recently and had a stent put in the bottom of her heart. She is looking good and the sisters were glad to see each other and had a nice visit.
Golden Years Meet
Seventeen members were present for the Golden Years meeting on Tuesday, July 12.
The club’s friend, Lola Gehle, dropped in for a welcome brief visit. President Charles Reece extended the welcome and recognized the July birthdays of Vernus Lytle, Donna Lakin and Alice Scott.
Jim Dann, pastor of Liberty Christian Church, asked the blessing for the noon potluck. Included on the always bountiful menu, were the delicious Smail zucchini cakes (“Easy,”  Don said, “just pancake mix, the Z, an egg and a little “Mrs. Dash.”) and the equally delicious baklava, brought but Lucille Fisher, her family’s  chefs’ specialty.
Lucille announced the pending arrival of a new granddaughter on her way to the United States from China, with her mother, Lucille’s granddaughter, Shannon. Lucille shared that “Noel” was a year old on April 1 and had been in an orphanage in China. She also shared that some time ago, Shannon had read a book about life in China for little girls, and had always dreamed of being able to share at least one little girl’s life. Her dream was realized as she flew home, a 14-hour, non-stop flight) with little Noel.
Following the meal, Reece called the meeting to order. Appropriate cards were signed by all present; a get-well card for Randy Myer, and a thank-you card for Mr. and Mrs. Bill Voisin.
Treasurer Donnie Smail gave the financial report.
Reece suggested the Club consider the purchase of a new furnace, as the present one is more than 20 years old and operates at only 70-percent efficiency.
A new one would more economically operate at 90-percent efficiency, with a 20-year warranty, at a cost of approximately $2,600.
During the following discussion, it was stated that if the furnace failed during cold weather, until installation of a new one, the club building could not be used for meetings, community events or activities (i.e., Red Cross blood drives, flu injection clinics, etc.), nor supplement club funding from the renting of the building for reunions, celebrations, etc.
Another fact brought forth was that the present furnace is, and can be, vented only through the chimney, and the chimney is getting old and will need repair work. A new furnace would be vented through the wall.
Following the room-wide discussion, Reece recommended the purchase of a new furnace/installation, as the club can afford it at this time “without pinching pennies,” as there was a donation made that was earmarked for a new furnace.
A motion was made by Shirley Klitzing to have a new furnace installed, and Panzi Blackwell seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed.
During following conversation, Lucille Fisher asked an interesting question about thermo-heating and just how it worked. The opinions agreed that it seemed to be a good method of heating. It is neither a gas nor electric heat. The pipes are in the ground, and a motor draws and circulates the air into the house, which stays at approximately 65 degrees all of the time. It does cost more to be installed and there is not enough space for the pipes around the Golden Years building.
Jim Budlove asked about the possibility of a handrail being put in the center of the front steps (west door), in addition to the two handrails on either side of the steps. Discussion followed, with the following points pro and con made. A railing down the center of the steps would prevent the holding of any future Red Cross blood drives because the resulting width would not accommodate the equipment needed for the drives. Also, the same problem would occur in the event of an emergency requiring an ambulance and/or transfer of a patient from the building.
Another suggestion was that the back (south side) handicapped entrance be used. Although there would be more maneuvering required through the doorways, there are no steps. A decision or solution was not arrived at during this meeting, but will be considered further.
During the informal conversation, which is so much enjoyed at the meetings, Donnie Smail recalled a family wedding when the weather was so hot and the church was not air-conditioned.
Shirley Klitzing recalled the hot summers when she was a young girl and she, being the only daughter, had to iron the family wash all day on Tuesdays. She said she ironed with the old iron heated on the heating stove, and as there was no electricity, there were no fans, and she had to stand in front of an open door for air.
Jim Budlove gave several humorous readings about a “little grandson.” Flo Allen told a funny story, ending with, the moral, “If there is a lot of baloney in your life, you probably put it there.”
Panzi Blackwell read a true article concerning the complaints of a resident of the nearby town of Luke Air Base. The complaint was about the fly-over of four jets that were honoring a serviceman and his family during his funeral. The soldier had given his life for our freedom. Don Smail said that he and wife, Sharon, had lived at that base when he was stationed there in 1969 … and they had the same experiences. Tribute was given to those who care enough to give their lives for others, Jesus, the military, firefighters and law enforcement.
Lucille Fisher said that during the polio epidemic, when her daughter, Helen, was afflicted with it, Scott Air Force Base sent doctors, nurses and other staff here, to Fayette County, to take care of those suffering with polio.
The next potluck meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 26, at noon at the Golden Years building, First and Division streets in Brownstown.
Sefton HCE meet at Behrend’s Pond
Sixteen members and two guests found their way through Sefton’s scenic hills and winding roads to the Behrends pond for a Sefton HCE potluck picnic and outing.
Sally Behrends hosted the get-together, with her daughter, Karen Zimmerman of Effingham, and Sally’ sister-in-law, Elizabeth Kasten, on hand to assist.
The day was perfect, even for a pond-side picnic-table style meal, but the Behrendses had held the meal and meeting in the pond-side, get-together charming and pretty building they had built just for get-togethers with family, neighbors and friends. The outdoor fresh air and atmosphere was enjoyed, as it was cool enough to open the doors, with just a fan to bring the breeze in.
Panzi Blackwell asked the blessing for the meal. After everyone (thought) they had eaten their fill, Behrends circulated, setting a dish of her homemade peach ice cream in front of each one.
Following the meal, Club President Flo Allen called the meeting to order with the pledge of allegiance to the American flag.
Secretary,Joyce Fisher called roll with the question, “What is your ‘easy-to-do meal’ when you are pressed for time?”
Treasurer Shirley Klitzing gave the financial report. Other items/announcements  were:
• Virginia Wilbur joined the Sefton Unit HCE during the meeting.
• It was voted at the last annual meeting to raise dues locally to $12 a year.
• Klitzing stated that the HCE club’s project, “Pennies for Friendship” helped the Third World countries in several ways.
She reminded of and reviewed other projects and collections the Sefton Unit and other HCE units participate in, including Caring & Sharing; donating eye glasses; donating used cell phones; donating clothes toiletries and other items to the veterans; children’s books and teddy bears to Fayette County Hospital; donating Campbells labels, stamps and soda can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House; and donating used computer ink cartridges, to food pantry and articles for Vandalia Rehabilitation.
Sefton will also hold a baby shower for Lighthouse Pregnancy Center in Vandalia. They will collect the pink Yoplait seals for cancer research from September to Dec. 31. There is still a need for the little dresses for other countries.
Allen read last month’s board notes. She also read the following several articles: “The Meaning off the Folds of the American Flag,” “It’s Not Over ‘Till the Fat Lady Sings” and “Taps,” the origin and all of the verses.
She also talked about the early days when everything imported or exported was by ships only.
Next month, Sefton’s annual 4-H Club meeting will be held for the 4-H kids, their leaders and parents, and they are encouraged to attend this meeting in their honor. They are invited to bring their projects and give a brief talk on them.
The meeting will be Thursday, Aug. 11, at 1 p.m. at the Golden Years building in Brownstown. Sefton ladies are to bring cookies for refreshments.
Present were: guests Betty Miller and Karen Zimmeron; members Sally Behrends, LaVonne Kramer, Marge Weiss, Sharon Wuilhelm, Marilyn Yakel, Panzi Blackwell, Flo Allen, Lucille Fisher, Shirley Klitzing, Phyllis Pryor, Virginia Wilbur,
Elizabeth Kasten, Joyce Fisher, Phyllis Bruno, Lora Fouch and Shirley Mattes.
Liberty Christian Church
The congregation of Liberty Christian Church was greeted by Bill and Elvera Robison, and welcomed by Jim Dann.
Cory Scott led in songs of praise, accompanied by Carla Scott, pianist. Dave Morrison shared the praises and prayer requests and led in prayer. Gordon Patterson contributed special music with a harmonica solo, followed with the message, delivered by Mark Scott.
John Willms led the Communion meditation and prayer. Josh Robison led the offering prayer.
Also serving: serving the congregation: Ken Lamb, Aaron Miller, Charlie Moore, Josh Robison, Brad Smith, Brian Smith; assistants: Mark Schaub, Tony Beardon; ushers: Gary Smith, Brian Smith; sound system: Dan Largent; PowerPoint: Kyle Anderson; nursery: Lisa/Bayle Smith; Communion preparation: Margie Stringfield; Communion rounds: Paul Parkison, Aaron Miller; welcome center: Paul/Deb Parkison; junior church: Paitlyn Miller, Rylee Wollerman; and pre-K worship: Barb Morrison, Allison Brunk.
Announcements
• Meetings: July 25-elders at 7 p.m. and board at 8 p.m.
• Liberty garage sale: Aug. 6, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Red Cross blood drive at Liberty: Tuesday, Aug. 9, from 2:30-6:30 p.m. See Rosalie Cox for more information.
• Fall youth kickoff pool party and cookout at the Vandalia Pool on Sunday, Aug. 21, at 5 p.m.
First Christian Church
The congregation of First Christian Church was greeted by Ervin and Joyce Garrison, and led in songs of praise by Adrienne Kinny, Cathy Smith and Judy Pilger, accompanied by pianist Susan Smith; drummer-Tucker Willms; and guitarists-Rick Cox, James Schaible and Walt Kinney.
Scripture was read by Cathy Smith. Special music was presented by Susan Smith, followed by the morning message, delivered by John Robinson. Delbert Miller led the Communion meditation. Duane Willms led the gifts and offerings devotion and prayer.
Also serving: Sunday school nursery-Ellen Willms,; a.m. nursery-Tena Gould; toddler worship-Karen Willms, Bonnie Shelton; Quest-4-Christ-Vicky Robinson and Team; Communion to shut-ins-Don Lovett and Matthew Shelton; serving the congregation with Communion/offerings;Duane Willms, Larry Pilger, Don Willms, Steve Storm, Trevor Willms; usher-Morgon Pryor; librarian-Joann Strobel; PowerPoint-Ashton Smith; sound-matthew Smith; communion preparation/cleaning-Mathew and Jamie Smith; Communion to shut-ins-Charlie Watson and Matthew Smith; and closing prayer-John Robinson.
Announcements
• All-church Trip to Robby’s Frozen Custard on Sunday; leave church at 4:30 p.m. and travel togrther in the church van and other vehicles.
• July Ladies Fellowship meeting is Thursday, July 28, at 7 p.m. at the church. The theme-“Angels Watching Over Me.”
• Second annual Shine for Jesus Car Show is Saturday, July 30, at the Association for Christian Truckers.
• 40th anniversary open house for Earl and Deanna Hovious at the church on Sunday, July 31, 3-5 p.m.
 

Panzi Blackwell

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