Your Turn/Anita Hanke
Published 1:03 pm Thursday, June 11, 2026
When I was a kid, I wanted to be … a teacher. My first-grade teacher inspired me.
What would you rather be doing right now? Gardening, cooking, talking with a friend or watching a good movie.
Shhhhhh! Don’t tell anyone that … I was Miss Lewis County and Miss Kirksville and placed in the top 10 at the Miss Missouri State Pageant both times. The Miss America pageant put me through two years of college.
Other than your wedding day and/or the birth of your children, what was your proudest moment? Graduating with my master’s degree.
It really stinks when … people stretch the truth or lie for their benefit.
I always laugh when … I see funny antics of cats or dogs.
Invite any three people, living or dead, to dinner. Who are they? My mom to ask all the questions I now have of my life. She died when I was 26 before I really appreciated her. A World War II veteran to understand that part of our country’s history. Mary, the mother Jesus, to hug her and thank her for the sacrifice she gave.
At the end of a really long day at work, I like to … talk to a close friend.
I would drop all my plans tonight if I had the chance to … go to dinner with friends or if someone needed help.
If someone gave me a million dollars, there is STILL no way I would … stop working.
America should be more concerned about … teaching our children about Christian values and to value family time.
I’m OK if there’s ever a national shortage of … clothing/shoes.
When I’m on the Internet, I always go to … Facebook to check out what is going on with friends and sites I follow or Pinterest.
What is the most useful piece of advice you have ever received? My parents (said) just be myself. Hold to my values and morals.
When I’m cruising down the road, I’m likely listening to … a book.
I always get sentimental when … I think of my son and grandchildren.
The older I get, the more I realize … each day is precious.
If I had one “do-over,” I would … I can’t go backwards. All the experiences, good and bad, have molded me into the person I am.
My favorite item of clothing is … anything that makes me feel elegant. My mom made all my clothes as a child. She even made all the gowns I wore to Miss Missouri Pageant.
If I’ve learned anything at all … Cherish each day, listen to others and spread a piece of joy. The kind word or smile you give could be the kindness a person needed. I am just passing through this earth to a heavenly home.
Anita Hanke, who says “a lady never tells her age,” is the director for membership and marketing at the Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce. She grew up as a farm girl in Williamstown, Mo., as the baby sister of two brothers.
