HALT THE RUMORS: HOSPITALITY HOUSE OPEN 24/365

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ As if the economy weren't a tough enough enemy, the Hospitality House now has to battle rumors that it is closed for the winter. The truth is that we have been open and will remain open to the public 24/365--that is every day of the year.

The mission of the Hospitality House is to provide low-cost lodging to family and friends of the incarcerated at Menard Correctional Center or Chester Mental Health Center. The House is open seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, so guests can stay any day they need a place to stay.

New House director, Gayle Ayala, has been managing the Hospitality House since March, 2011. She became the House director after former director, Mary Kay Keim, resigned to follow her husband who was transferred. Prior to Gayle's arrival, the Hospitality House was thoroughly cleaned and rooms repainted. In addition to that, Gayle has redecorated the entire house. Guests have commented on how they love the home-like atmosphere.

The Hospitality House is governed by a five member board which meets every two months. Board members are Fr. Leo Hayes and Don Winston of Ava, Dr. Doris Thomson of Sparta, and Mark and Mary Ann Horstmann of Elkville. On December 9, the board met for their December meeting at the Hospitality House. The meeting began with a potluck supper followed by the business meeting. If any church or organization would like a tour or wants to learn more about the Hospitality House ministry, call Gayle Ayala at 618-826-9810 to set up an appointment. Hospitality House has been operating since July of 1986 and has served over 28,299 guests.