Fall 2011

It was a hot summer that began with flood fights along the rivers. Still, Missouri never fails to show us a soft and beautiful side to keep our confidence in her beauty and grace. Now, as Fall comes rushing at us, our thoughts turn to school, football games, cool nights, days of fall foliage and apple cider.

To help you plan some “Missouri Family Travel Time” I’ve done a bit of research and listed a few places you may find interesting both IRL (In Real Life) and on the internet.

I have had a busy summer helping to plan for the 175th anniversary of the founding of the city of Glasgow. When this magazine reaches you, it may be too late to visit us in person for the activities (you are welcome anytime,) but you can still make a virtual visit to
www.jymiller.net/zzglasgow175.html. I hope you can come in person to tour the local cemetery with me or to see me in the Glasgow History Play.

One of the many activities at the anniversary celebration will be a series of speakers on historical matters. One of them is Peter Gorton, who will speak on John Donaldson. John Donaldson, who was born in Glasgow, played baseball here in the early 1900s and is thought to be one of the greatest of the Negro League players. You can read more about him on Peter Gorton’s page at
JohnDonaldson.bravehost.com/ .

Fall foliage driving tours are at the top of the list for many people planning activities in the fall. Help planning a trip is available at
www.chiff.com/travel/missouri-foliage.htm. The site suggests driving tours, lots of photos, tips for taking your own photos and more. There is even a short movie that explains why leaves change color along with some great views of colorful foliage.

More on Missouri’s fall colors is available at
mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/outdoor-recreation/nature-viewing/trees-and-forests/fall-colors .

Marty Koch, a St. Louis-based photographer and blogger posts travel notes and photos at
MartysWorld.typepad.com/traveling_with_marty/. He is planning a fall float trip on the Current River. The site is loaded with beautiful scenic shots.

Those close to Kansas City will enjoy a visit to the Weston Red Barn Farm either IRL on at
www.WestonRedBarnFarm.com/index.htm . The barn hosts tours, hayrides, pumpkin sales, a country store and farm market. School tours are also offered.

Near the center of the state, you can visit the beautiful campus of Central Methodist University in Fayette or visit online at
www.CentralMethodist.edu/ . CMU is my alma mater. While on campus, you might visit the Ashby Hodge Gallery. If you do, say hello to the curator, Dr. Joseph Geist. The gallery will exhibit George Caleb Bingham works from mid-August through October, which you will be able to view either IRL or on the gallery’s web page at www.CentralMethodist.edu/ashbyhodge/visit.php. One of the portraits is of Matilda Donohoe Aull, the daughter of one of the founders of Glasgow and my wife’s great-great-great-aunt.

No matter where you travel this Fall, or how, I hope you enjoy our beautiful Missouri with your family. Fall is a great time to build those lasting memories and to enjoy our state and each other. Perhaps our paths will cross either IRL or on the web. Be sure to say hello if you see me.