Glass bender
Jim and Becky McCarter keep history alive through neon signs Every sign has a story, and every sign is worth saving — at least to Jim and Becky McCarter. The couple from Columbia have been dedicated to the craft and history of neon signs for more than four decades....
New year, new day
Front-row parking at the grocery store, stopping at the gas station and finding my cellphone on the tailgate of my truck or catching the biggest trout at fish camp opening day — if you ask my wife or any of my buddies, I’m a pretty lucky guy. I’m going to let you in...
New leaders for AMEC
Loren Haines new association president The Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, the statewide service organization for Missouri’s electric cooperatives, has a new president. He is Loren Haines, CEO of North Central Missouri Electric Cooperative based in...
From trees to pies
One family’s two pecan businesses span five generations Sometimes you meet a person so dedicated to their craft their passion is infectious. For Jennifer Cassaday, that was her grandfather Vernon Byrd and his love of pecans. As Jennifer — and anyone who knew Vernon —...
Glass Compositions
Light slips in through the stained glass suncatcher in the window and brightens the room with rainbow colors. The studio is warmed by the wood stove and the ceramic kiln at work. No winter’s chill is going to keep this artist from creating glass masterpieces. The...
Savory Soups
Soups to warm your soul this winter.
Taboo Burgers, Grill and Ice Cream
Over-the-top burgers and ice cream in Laurie.
Our wish for you
Reflecting on the past, while looking toward the future As we close out 2023 and the observance of our 75th anniversary, the staff of Rural Missouri would like to thank our readers for welcoming us into your homes, both figuratively and literally for those of you we...
The call to adventure
Missouri couple builds canvas tents for campers, outfitters and more The cold mountain air of autumn has arrived with the first snowfall of the season. The ground is covered in white as animals forage for food. You’re miles from civilization, but inside your canvas...
Reindeer Games
Vanzant farm brings magic of the North Pole to southern Missouri The magic of the holidays captures kids of all ages — just ask Sara Prescott. The cattlewoman, wife and mother wears another hat one month out of the year. That’s when she, along with husband, Michael,...