Mount Ayr Record-News
Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa
Thursday, June 27, 2002

Some Mount Ayr residents were still asleep on June 13 when three former Walnut Valley neighbors began a journey to Waukee to meet Billie Ruth SUCHER, who has created these reunions to celebrate and honor, the get-togethers that began 53 years ago.

Ruth EGLY, Lavena WIMER and Mildred CANNON knew the day would be full of surprises, much visiting and joys. Billie's mother, Ruth, tried to trick Billie to reveal her surprises but she learned with the rest.

The first surprise was to the Howell Tree Farm where acres of trees, grasses and flowers are grown and the owners make and sell many arrangements from their homegrown products.

Leaving the tree farm Ruth and Lavena correctly guessed that Francesca's House was next on the list. The tour guide to interesting facts which seemed to bring "The Bridges of Madison County" to life. Bille got several photos to record the tour. Two tourists were there from Dayton, OH and the gentleman has a web site for his interesting photography.

Billie had luncheon reservations at Kenilworth Cafe located in Urbandale. While waiting for the food, Billie had a basket of gifts for each, and Lavena had a souvenier spoon from Mount Ayr for each.

On to Billie's home to visit her family, then past Waterworks Park for stops at Big Lots store and Hobby Lobby to complete the surprise tour. Billie's daughter, Sarah, rode along to return the ladies to Waukee. After fond good-byes the Mount Ayr ladies returned home.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, August of 2012