The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

"I Love My Home, Because It's Home!"

Dessa Rodeffer- Quill Publisher

I was at my hometown of Stronghurst's annual Christmas lighting ceremony Sunday evening, looking at the nativity scene of the "little Lord Jesus" and seeing the familiar faces who always join in the community events that bind us together. I thought of how many people had gone before us who stood in this spot and loved this park and our hometown. Songs were sung, a short message given by Rev. Knox, and board member Lawrence Neff closed the event by saying - "I love Stronghurst - my home town," and the many who have worked to make it such a nice place to live.

His words came strong from the heart, the same as Lieutenant Colonel Larry Louden's words at our "Hometown Heroes" celebration after the 9-11 attacks.

As Larry piloted for TWA from St. Louis to the Quad Cities he said it was good to look down and see where he grew up, "because it's home!"

I can't imagine the "good chills" SSG Gary Jackson felt as he finally was able to see the lights of home in La Harpe after serving in combat among terrorists 9 months. He echoed, "It's good to be home!"

We have enjoyed the good life at someone else's doing. As a footnote to the thanksgiving feast, I wish to say "thank you" to our military and veterans, and also add a big thank you to the community boosters at home who continue to "stoke the stove" in our hometowns.