Probably like a lot of others, when Kaitlyn McConnell’s Passport to the Ozarks arrived, I immediately checked to see if some of my ‘memorable places’ had made the cut. Lo and behold – Windyville is having something of a (small) revival. The store has been reinvigorated – 15 cent bologna sandwiches! And who knew the tiny village was a hotbed of paranormal interest – it’s haunted. Turn the page and here was the Y Bridge in Galena. a beauty of a structure, graceful, elegant and historic. Kaitlyn gives the significant details.
For years as we’ve prowled the region for research or gathering photos for our own projects, we’ve seen properties in decline and hoped for their restoration. Several of those stories – Greenfield Opera House, the Boots Motel, are told, with photographs of them in their refurbished glory.
Passports open doors to far away, exotic places and unusual experiences. With Kaitlyn’s “Passport”, we rediscover the place we thought we knew. Visitors to the area will hit the standard highlights, but this Passport will take them to some off the beaten track places and events (like the Oldfield Opry, McClurg Jam or Lamar’s Movie scene – how long has it been since you’ve been to a drive-in movie?) that will enliven, educate, and entertain. And to help you sate your appetite, Kaitlyn discovers restaurant specialties to defy your Fitbit’s rules.
Photographs are crisp and well framed. The text is concise, readable and so informative. Every location (61 in all) h
as its own story, photographs, and contact information. Passport to the Ozarks is available on the Ozarks Alive website: https://www.ozarksalive.com/product/passport-to-the-ozarks/
Books may also be purchased by sending a check to Ozarks Alive at P.O. Box 2004, Springfield, MO 65801.
The book is available for purchase at Cooky’s Cafe in Golden City, the Douglas County Herald in Ava and the Webster County Citizen in Seymour.