Acclaimed Author Tom Piazza Visits Malden, Donates Books to Historical Museum
from left, Mary Howell, David Black and Tom Piazza
from left, Mary Howell, David Black and Tom Piazza
by Stephen Hankins - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — Award-winning author Tom Piazza made a special visit to Malden this week, reconnecting with friends, supporting local cultural programs, and leaving behind a lasting gift for the community. Piazza, an acclaimed novelist, essayist, music historian, and Grammy Award-winning writer, arrived in time to attend Isaac Hampton’s presentation on his hiking experiences during a program at the Bootheel Youth Museum on Thursday. On Saturday, Piazza accompanied longtime friend Mary Howell to the Malden Historical Museum, where he donated several autographed books from his personal collection, including copies of his latest work, Living in the Present with John Prine. Howell also presented the museum with a substantial donation of historical reference books and novels from her personal collection, a gift made in support of an institution she has long cherished. Museum supporters said the donation will help expand resources available to visitors while preserving materials of historical and literary interest for future generations. Known nationally for his fiction, nonfiction, and music writing, Piazza has authored a dozen books, including A Free State, City of Refuge, My Cold War, and Why New Orleans Matters. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Columbia Journalism Review, and numerous other publications. He also served as a principal writer for HBO's acclaimed drama series Treme and received a Grammy Award for his album notes accompanying Martin Scorsese Presents The Blues: A Musical Journey. During his visit, Piazza reflected on the connection he has maintained with the Malden area over the years. He shared that portions of nine of his books were written while staying at the Howell family farm near Malden, where he found both inspiration and a quiet place to work. Beyond his impressive literary accomplishments, those who met him during the visit were struck by his warmth and generosity. Piazza proved to be a thoughtful conversationalist, eager to discuss writing, music, history, and the people who have influenced his life and work. His visit offered local residents a rare opportunity to meet one of America’s most respected contemporary writers while highlighting the friendships and connections that continue to link Southeast Missouri with literary and cultural figures across the country. For museum supporters and local history enthusiasts, the donations made by both Piazza and Howell represent meaningful additions to the Malden Historical Museum's collection. The visit served as a reminder that the museum remains not only a guardian of local history but also a gathering place where literature, culture, and community continue to intersect. More reading at the bootheelbeacon on Facebook
From Malden to the Mountains; Hampton Shares Life-Changing Trek
David Black - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — Bootheel Youth Museum board member Mitch Green welcomed guests to Thursday night’s Third Thursday program and introduced several audience members as well as the staff of the Bootheel Youth Museum, before presenting featured speaker Isaac Hampton. Green thanked attendees for supporting the museum and recognized community members in attendance. He then introduced Hampton, a Malden native and longtime museum supporter, whose presentation focused on his 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike. Speaking during the Bootheel Youth Museum’s Third Thursday program June 18th, Hampton shared photographs, stories and lessons from his journey through California, Oregon and Washington. Hampton completed the trail in 137 days, hiking through desert heat, volcanic landscapes, snow-covered mountain passes, deep forests, national parks and some of the most scenic wilderness areas in the United States. Isaac Hampton has been thru-hiking for about 4 years. His longest hike has been the 2650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which took him 137 days. It's a rare accomplishment. According to Pacific Crest Trail Association statistics, only about 17% of permit holders completed the thru-hike in 2024. Isaac is also an accomplished photographer and has made good use of that skill on his hikes. A thru-hiker is someone who completes an entire long-distance trail from beginning to end in a single trip. Hampton explained that hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail may travel northbound, southbound or complete what is known as a “flip-flop,” beginning in one section, hiking to one end, then returning to finish the remaining portion. Hampton chose a flip-flop route because of snow conditions in the Northern Cascades. He began in Ashland, Oregon, hiked north to the Canadian border, then returned to Oregon and continued south to the Mexican border. “I’m a Malden native,” Hampton told the audience. “I’ve been going to this museum since I was about 6 or 7. It’s a real pleasure to be here.” During the presentation, Hampton described the physical demands of hiking 15 to 30 miles a day while carrying food, water, clothing, shelter, camera gear and safety equipment. He said a hiker may burn more than 6,000 calories on a full hiking day. Meals on the trail were simple and calorie-heavy. Hampton joked about a “hiker burrito” he made with a tortilla, pepperoni, mayonnaise and chili cheese Fritos. Hampton said, In town, hikers often made up for lost calories with pizza, ice cream, burgers and other high-calorie meals. Hampton also discussed the dangers of the trail, including snowfields, lightning, venomous snakes, sickness, falls and wildlife. He recalled one tense night in Northern California when he believed a mountain lion followed him before he reached an area where other hikers had camped. “The mountain lion, sickness and falling were probably the three scariest things I encountered,” Hampton said. Despite the challenges, Hampton described the trail as a life-changing experience. He said long-distance hiking requires physical strength, careful planning, mental toughness and a personal reason to keep going when conditions become difficult. “You’ve got to have some sort of why,” Hampton said. His photographs included Crater Lake, Mount Jefferson, Mount Hood, Ramona Falls, Bridge of the Gods, Mount Adams, Goat Rocks Wilderness, Yosemite, the Sierra Nevada and the Canadian border marker. Mitch Green, board member of Bootheel Youth Museum announced upcoming Bootheel Youth Museum programs, including a dinosaur dig presentation in July, “Music Rooted in the Bootheel” in August, a Malden Airfield program in September, a Mary Surratt historical presentation in October and a program on the 1939 Sharecroppers’ Strike in November. The free Third Thursday event was sponsored by Cathy, Coline and Greg Hampton. Isaac was born and raised in Malden. After graduating from Malden High School, he attended college at Truman State University in Kirksville, MO, earning a degree in economics. He currently works for the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C. His photography can be seen at isaachampton.com. Organizers thanked the crowd for attending and reminded guests that donations help keep the museum’s community programs free.
Green Wave Tradition Lives On Through Scholarships, Service and Homecoming Spirit
by David Black - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — For nearly three decades, the Malden High School Alumni Association has worked to preserve memories, strengthen friendships and invest in the future of Green Wave graduates through scholarships, volunteerism and its annual Homecoming celebration. Since its founding in 1997, the organization has become a cornerstone of community pride, connecting alumni from across the country while raising funds to support graduating seniors as they pursue higher education and career opportunities. Each year, the association recognizes outstanding students through its scholarship program, helping open doors to a brighter future for the next generation of Green Wave graduates. “Since 1997, the MHSAA has empowered MHS graduates to ride the wave of success, opening doors to a brighter future,” association leaders said. Homecoming Weekend, traditionally held over Labor Day weekend, remains one of the association’s signature events. More graduating classes continue to choose the celebration as an opportunity to hold reunions, participate in the annual Homecoming Parade and reconnect with classmates and lifelong friends. Association members meet monthly throughout the year to plan activities, coordinate reunions, support scholarship fundraising efforts and improve the annual celebration. Organizers say Homecoming requires weeks of preparation and countless volunteer hours, but the rewards are immeasurable. “It is a time to reunite with old friends, celebrate our shared past and invest in the future of our community,” members said. The association encourages residents of Malden and the surrounding area to become involved by attending meetings and volunteering their time and talents. Leaders note that every contribution helps strengthen the organization and creates lasting opportunities for Malden students. The Malden High School Alumni Association’s annual banquet has also become an important tradition, bringing together alumni of all ages to celebrate shared experiences and honor those who have helped sustain the organization through the years. During the 29th Annual Alumni Banquet, special recognition was given to the volunteers who dedicate countless hours to preserving the Green Wave legacy. Chairperson Barbara Grubbs was commended for her leadership and faithful attendance at monthly planning meetings. Other committee members recognized for their service included Connie Coleman, secretary; Jackie Bennett, treasurer; Gail Demaree, alumni contact and mailing coordinator; Dennis Demaree; Jeannie and Gary Selby, who provide decorative touches for the banquet; Lynnette Jenkins; Patty Moore; and David Black, webmaster and newsletter editor. Black, creator and longtime webmaster of MaldenAlumni.com, continues to preserve the history of the association through photography, website development and archival projects that allow alumni to revisit cherished memories and maintain connections with classmates throughout the nation. The association also expressed appreciation to Tasteful Creations for once again preparing the annual banquet meal, noting that a portion of the proceeds helps sustain alumni programs and scholarships. Organizers say the continued success of the Malden High School Alumni Association is rooted in a simple idea: preserving the bonds created during school years while ensuring future generations have opportunities to succeed. “No matter where life takes us,” members said, “we will always share the memories, traditions, friendships and Green Wave spirit that began in the halls of Malden High School.” As preparations continue for Homecoming 2026, alumni leaders hope graduates from every era will return home to celebrate the traditions that continue to unite the Green Wave family.
Malden Water Deemed Safe After Chlorine Overfeed; Officials Cite Aging System Challenges
by Stephen Hankins - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — State officials say Malden’s drinking water is currently safe following a recent chlorine overfeed, while also pointing to longer-term system challenges outlined in earlier updates to city leaders. Representatives with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources said the most recent issue began roughly a week ago when a chlorination pump malfunctioned and failed to shut off, sending excess chlorine into the system. Jason Kirkman, water section manager for the department’s Southeast Regional Office, said city operators quickly notified regulators and began corrective action. “They had overfed chlorine,” Kirkman said, noting the city was instructed to stop feeding chlorine and begin flushing the system. DNR environmental specialist Deric Calvert said crews flushed the distribution system for more than 13 hours and temporarily brought an additional well online to maintain supply while diluting chlorine levels. “They were able to get those residuals back down,” Calvert said, adding follow-up testing confirmed chlorine levels returned to safe ranges by the evening of April 29. “The last test we took showed that the water is at safe levels.” Officials described the city’s response as prompt and appropriate. “They became aware of the overfeed earlier that morning… and had already contacted the department,” Calvert said, crediting local operators, including chief operator Kurt Kreps, for restoring balance in the system. The latest incident follows earlier concerns Kirkman raised with the Malden City Council in October, when water quality issues were linked to elevated ammonia levels in Well No. 6 near a local dealership. According to that update, ammonia in the groundwater interferes with chlorine’s ability to disinfect. “It’s currently producing high levels of naturally occurring ammonia, which destroys chlorine at a ratio of roughly 1 part ammonia to 7 parts chlorine,” Kreps said at the time. Under DNR guidance, the city removed Well No. 6 from service, disinfected it with a high-strength chlorine treatment, and installed additional flushing capabilities. The well remained offline as officials evaluate whether it can be safely returned to use. A second well, located on the airbase, also produces ammonia but at lower levels, Kreps said. Infrastructure limitations continued to complicate water treatment efforts. Much of Malden’s system still relies on older steel and cast-iron lines, which can reduce chlorine's effectiveness and contribute to taste and odor concerns. “We are replacing old steel and cast iron water lines with plastic, which reduces chlorine loss and improves water quality,” Kreps said, noting the work is part of a long-term 20-year replacement plan. Kirkman said the system’s hydraulics — how water moves through town — also play a role in inconsistent chlorine levels. “Part of town has higher residuals and part has low residuals,” he said, describing it as an ongoing challenge rather than operator error. City and state officials said additional improvements are underway, including evaluating chlorine contact time, upgrading equipment such as the malfunctioning chlorinator, and addressing distribution issues tied to aging infrastructure and water towers, some dating back to the 1960s. Despite those challenges, DNR officials emphasized that Malden’s water currently meets safety standards. “We’re in as good a shape as they can get,” Kirkman said, adding that long-term fixes will take time. More reading at the bootheelbeacon on Facebook.
From Auction Ring to Community Cornerstone: The Story of Malden Sale Barn
by David Black - Staff Writer
Sale Barn Painting by Paul Black
This painting of the Malden Sale Barn was created by Paul Black, a Malden High School graduate from the Class of 1962.
Black went on to study art at the Kansas City Art Institute and later completed his master’s degree at Penn State University. As a student, he often painted scenes of Malden from the windows of the high school art room, developing a deep connection to the community through his work.
A key influence in his early artistic development was longtime Malden educator Ms. Almyra Tolleson, whom Black credited as a mentor.
Throughout his career, Black applied his talents in both painting and photography. He was the owner and operator of Photographique, a photography and printing business in downtown Dallas, Texas, for more than 40 years.
MALDEN, Mo. — Long before it gave way to one of the city’s most important public gathering spaces, the Malden Sale Barn stood as a hub of commerce, community, and country life — a place where deals were struck, livestock changed hands, and neighbors gathered as much for fellowship as for business. Children gathered at each opening of the Malden Sale Barn to welcome the animals and the excitement of hearing them, and were fascinated as the day wore on, for more surprising moments to remember forever. Located at the busy junction of Douglass St. and Route J, the sale barn was more than just a marketplace. It was a cornerstone of Malden’s agricultural identity, deeply tied to the rhythms of farm life in surrounding Malden and Dunklin County. Where Commerce Met Community On sale days, the barn came alive. Farmers, traders, and buyers filled the pens and auction ring, bringing cattle, hogs, and other livestock to market. The sounds of auctioneers calling bids mixed with the lowing of cattle and the conversations of neighbors catching up on the latest news in between bids. By the 1960s, the Malden Sale Barn had become firmly established as a regional livestock hub. A 1963 notice invited hog producers to bring their stock to a “daily market” at the site, promising “courteous service, honest weight and fair prices.” It was a place built on trust — a vital ingredient in any rural economy. But the barn’s role extended well beyond agriculture. A Gathering Place for Everyday Life The Malden Sale Barn regularly transformed into a community venue. It served as: • A polling place during city elections • A rabies vaccination clinic site, where residents brought pets for annual shots • A parade staging ground for Saddle Club events • A location for public gatherings and announcements In March 1971, residents lined up with dogs and cats for vaccinations under the direction of a Kennett veterinarian. Just months later, horses would assemble nearby as part of a Saddle Club parade forming at the barn — a reminder of how seamlessly agriculture and civic life intertwined. The barn was not just a place — it was a stage for everyday life in Malden. The Turning Point: A City’s Vision By the early 1970s, Malden leaders began looking toward the future. The property — owned by the Bob Kirkbride family — became central to discussions about building a permanent community facility. In 1972, the site was formally proposed as a location for a new city building, thanks to its size and accessibility, making it one of the few viable options within city limits. In 1973, that vision became reality. March 15, 1973 - Malden Press-Merit - The City of Malden exercised its option to purchase the property, including the sale barn, marking a turning point in its history. Backed by strong local support and federal funding, plans moved forward for a modern community building that would serve future generations. The Malden City Council voted Monday night to support plans for a proposed $384,000 community building, agreeing by a 6–1 margin to underwrite the city’s $96,000 share of the project, while debate continued over how best to finance it. The proposed site near Route J and Smith Street—where the former Malden Sale Barn stood—was identified as the only available in-city location meeting federal approval requirements. While most council members and a large group of attending residents supported moving forward, Councilman Phil Santie urged that the issue be decided by public vote or bond issue, arguing it would give citizens a direct voice; however, his motion failed due to time constraints tied to an expiring property option. Supporters pointed to strong local backing, including pledges from businesses, civic groups, and individuals, with additional contributions expected from financial institutions and organizations. The city’s share is expected to be met through a mix of in-kind services, private donations, and other funding sources, with annual maintenance costs estimated at $4,000. Mayor Sparrel Davis expressed confidence that the city would successfully finance the project, emphasizing the building’s importance as a much-needed community gathering space Joe Radican, representing the Kirkbride Estate, accepted the initial payment from Les Heise of the Community Building Committee. The project reflects a strong community effort, with local leaders and organizations working together to bring the vision of a new community building to life. Present for the occasion on Friday morning were Phil Shelton, director of the Bootheel Economic Development Council; Les Heise and Mrs. Pat Morehead, members of the Community Building Committee; Joe Radican; and Bill Johnson, manager of the Chamber of Commerce. Shortly thereafter, the familiar structures of the sale barn were dismantled. In May 1973, building materials — from cypress lumber to feed bunks and even the pit scale — were auctioned off on-site, signaling the end of an era. From Sale Barn to Community Center Where livestock once filled the pens, a new chapter began. The Malden Community Center rose on the former sale barn site, transforming a place of commerce into a center for civic life — hosting meetings, events, and activities that continue to bring the community together. Yet, the memory of the sale barn never faded. It lives on in: • A 1996 Malden Christmas ornament honoring the site • A historic cotton throw depicting the barn among Malden landmarks • Personal memories of residents who grew up walking past it each day A cotton throw depicting scenes from Malden’s history has brought together several of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, including the airbase guard shack, the Liberty Theatre, Fire Station No. 1, Beckwith School, the old Malden High School and gymnasium, and the Malden Sale Barn. Marty Bullock, a self-proclaimed history buff, was eager to be part of the project when she was contacted about arranging the historic design. Bullock, who serves as office manager of Oyerturf HealthMart in Malden, took on the project with help from others in the community. At the center of the throw is the Malden depot, which Bullock says is her favorite image. “The depot is my very favorite,” said Bullock. “I can remember as a child, my parents had a restaurant, and the railroad men would come in. There were quite a few trains in and out in those days.” Bullock said the Liberty Theatre and the Malden Sale Barn also brought back memories of her childhood. “The Liberty Theatre was the only entertainment that we had as kids,” she said. “And I also worked there when I was older.” Bullock said the sale barn, which was located where the Malden Community Center now stands, was a thriving place when she was a child. She said she would walk past the sale barn each morning on her way to school, and she remembers it vividly. Only the Beckwith School and Fire Station Number 1 remain standing today. The Liberty Theatre was torn down last summer, 1994. “This is a part of history, and in a way it’s preserving history,” said Bullock, who wanted to thank former Malden Press-Merit publisher Allen Black, Chamber Executive Director Dottie Phelps, and this newspaper for their help in gathering old photos and information. A model of the 52-inch-by-70-inch custom-woven throw is on display at Overturf HealthMart in Malden, and orders are currently being taken. The throws, available in cranberry, green, or navy, will be delivered by Thanksgiving, Bullock said. A Legacy That Still Echoes Though the structure is gone, the spirit of the Malden Sale Barn endures. It represents a time when agriculture shaped daily life, when neighbors gathered not just for business but for connection, and when a simple auction barn could serve as the beating heart of a town. In that way, the Malden Sale Barn never truly disappeared.