$6.2 million to improve 76 Entertainment District secured Bransonmo.gov (Photo Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau)
The City of Branson and the 76 Entertainment Community Improvement District (76ECID) announce the final approval of $6.2 million in state funding for West 76 improvements. Governor Mike Parson recently signed
the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) state operating and capital improvement budget bills, with the $6.2 million earmarked for “all expenditures associated with the planning, design and construction of infrastructure improve-
Coalition, law enforcement aid in trafficking arrests
Submitted to Branson Globe
ments” of Branson’s 76 Entertainment District (House Bill 20; Section 20.1090).
This funding, focusing on improvements from the Branson Ferris Wheel to Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, is the result of
months of diligence, hard work and tenacity of the region’s elected officials to include Representative Brian Seitz, Representative Brad Hudson, Senator Karla Eslinger and others; volunteers of the 76ECID Board; stake-
holders of the project to include business and landowners along the route; and City of Branson staff.
“The 76ECID Board of Directors is immensely grateful for this show of sup-
A recent sting operation in the Branson, Missouri, area resulted in several arrests connected to human trafficking. Local and state entities cooperated in the two-day initiative, as the Stone County Sheriff’s Office, Taney County Sheriff’s Office, and Branson Police Department were supported by the Missouri Attorney General’s Counter-Human Trafficking Task Force, Prosecuting Attorneys in Stone and Taney counties, the Missouri National Guard Counter-Trafficking program, Jackson County Sheriff, and the Ray County Sheriff’s Counter-Human Trafficking Task Force, as well as a local survivor advocacy group, Pathways Project Coalition.
This team utilized a blend of victim-centered methods and proactive counter-human trafficking techniques to disrupt the
commercial sex industry in the community, resulting in the following: Seven predatory buyers were arrested who arrived at meet locations intending to buy sex from law enforcement officers posing as under-age victims. All were arrested and charged with sexual trafficking of a child in the second degree, and two trucks were seized for forfeiture.
• One buyer was arrested for meeting to pay for sex with an adult. He was booked and charged with soliciting prostitution.
Team members met with eight potential victims face-to-face for advocacy. No criminal charges were brought against the victims.
• During the advocacy, two traffickers were arrested and booked for
New police department becoming a reality
BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist
At its June 25, 2024, meeting, to a standing ovation, the Branson Board of Alderpersons unanimously approved the financing of the final $10,750,000 for the new Branson Police Department. The project’s staff report and update were presented by Michael Woods, the Director of Public Works & Engineering, and Eric Schmitt, the Branson
Police Chief.
The following, in Q & A format, is an interview the Branson Globe (BG) had with Michael Woods (MW) before the meeting regarding some of the significant details of the project:
BG: Can you give us a rough timeline of where we started, where we are and where we are going?
MW: In 2018, the city acquired land at 311 Forsythe Street intending to construct
a new police station there.
In July 2022, with the increases in construction costs attributed to COVID experienced throughout the construction industry, we decided to take an innovative “out of the box” approach with the White House Theatre when it, and its 11.8 acres of land, became available.
BG: What is happening to the land at the Forsythe Street location?
8A
Final artist rendition of Branson’s new Police Station (Photo Courtesy City of Branson)
Area veterans honored by Quilts of Valor
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
On Thursday, June 27,
Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks honored several area veterans with the gift of a quilt. The ceremony was held at Mid-Town Café in downtown Reeds Spring, the 17th time since 2020 that owner Jeff Barnhart has welcomed quilting groups and veterans to the café as an expression of his own gratitude for their sacrifice and service.
The following veterans received quilts at the ceremony: Carl Hoglund, Korea
• Rich Wittig, Korea Gary Barcus, Vietnam
• John H. Bentley Jr., Vietnam
• Larry Catron, Vietnam
• Kelly Bade, Cold War
era
• Robin Bower, Cold War
era
• Joy Souza, post-911 Martin Sweet Quilts of Valor mem-
bers also presented Barnhart with a banner of appreciation for his ongoing acknowledgement and support of local veterans.
Follow the Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks page on Facebook to learn more about the group or get involved, and find many more pictures with this story at BransonGlobe.com.
Lake Taneycomo Elks events planned to benefit community
Submitted to Branson Globe Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge is excited to announce a Scholarship Fundraiser to be held Friday, July 12, starting at 6 p.m. Bring family and friends to join in this fun evening which helps support two scholarships of $1,000 each given locally each year, with hopes to increase the amount for the coming year.
The evening will include raffles, 50/50 drawing, and a special surprise announcement. Contact Terri Williams at terri6536@gmail. com to donate raffle items. Those who would like to support area youth but cannot attend on Friday can mail donations to P. O. Box 816, Forsyth, MO 65653 with a note stating the funds are for scholarships.
Also, on July 12, the Elks will host the Forsyth Community Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To schedule your appointment, call 1-800-REDCROSS or visit https://www.redcrossblood. org/ and enter “Forsyth” in the search box. On Saturday, July 13, visit the Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge for the Craft Fair and Rummage Sale, 8 a.m. to 1
p.m. Vendors are welcome at $10 per table; contact Terri at 417-230-6200. Come indoors out of the heat and spend some time browsing wonderful craft items and bargains while supporting the Elks in their many service activities for the community. Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge 2597 is located at 12951 U.S. Hwy. 160 in Forsyth.
Junior Auxiliary to hold tea to encourage membership
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
If you have heard about the Junior Auxiliary of Taney County and wanted to learn more about the organization, now you have the opportunity.
The Junior Auxiliary (JATC) is holding an informational membership tea event.
JATC Members will be
on hand to share more about their not-for-profit organization for ladies, and talk about their many projects including Christmas Assistance, SteamPunk Academy, Santa’s Gift House, Celebrate Reading, Tender Critters, Kindness Effect and more.
Junior Auxiliary of Taney County is more than just a
nonprofit organization. It is a group of women united by a single cause and dedicated to improving the lives of the children of Taney County.
JATC is part of a national organization that encourages members to render charitable services which are beneficial to the community, with particular emphasis on children. The membership tea is set for Tuesday, July 23, at 5:30 p.m. at 200 Industrial Park Drive in Hollister. For more information, email jatcmo@gmail.com or visit their website at jatcmo.org. To RSVP for the membership tea, call 417294-2745.
Table Rock Lake Community Foundation accepting grant applications through August 29
Submitted to Branson Globe
Table Rock Lake Community Foundation’s (TRLCF) 2024 grant application opportunity will open on July 8. The deadline for submitting an application is on August 29. Eligible applicants encompass a wide variety of worthy organizations in Stone and Southeast Barry counties, with TRLCF considering grant proposals from nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations, schools and governmental agencies. In recent years, dozens of community-focused organizations and agencies have benefited from these grants, ranging from several hundred dollars to a cap of $3,000.
“This truly worthwhile
effort, open to schools, governments, communities and nonprofit organizations, really helps the smaller to mid-size grassroots groups meet project needs by providing up to $3,000 per grant awarded,” said Nita Jane Ayres, longtime board member of TRLCF and manager of the grant application process. Annually, this chapter of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, releases between twenty and thirty thousand dollars.
“We have a primary interest in supporting organizations and projects that provide vital community services to improve our quality of life,” said Ayres, adding that the TRLCF has strong interest in projects
that provide innovative solutions for existing and emerging community needs.
A major role of the Table Rock Lake Community Foundation is to establish endowed funds for the purpose of funding this community grant-making program, made possible by charitable donors who have established funding programs and have placed the decision-making action in the hands of community leaders serving on the TRLCF Board of Directors.
In 2023, TRLCF awarded a total of $27,442 to ten different organizations including Stone County Historical/Genealogical Society; Galena-Abesville Elementary School; TriLakes Humane Society; Imagination Library Affiliate of Barry County; His House Foundation; SKITS - Shell Knob in the Spotlight; Kimberling Area Senior Center; Kimberling Area Library; CCUMC Community Garden; and Children’s Smile Center.
Applicants should use the online application platform provided through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. The online application platform can be accessed from the following website link: https:// www.grantinterface.com/ Process/Apply?urlkey=cfozarksgrants . In the search bar, applicants will need to type in “Table Rock.” Applicants will then be taken to the information page for the Table Rock Lake Community Foundation grant application. Additionally, see the tab at the top right of the screen. Applicants will need to create an account in order to apply. NOTE: A link to the grant application will also be posted on the Table Rock Lake Community Foundation Facebook page. Questions about the online grant application process can be directed to Emily Brittain, ebrittain@ cfozarks.org, phone 417864-6199, ext. 4501 Completed applications must be received by August 29, 2024. Requests from individuals will not be considered.
An honoree with his quilt (Photo by Mary Ryder)
Mid-Town Cafe has an entire wall of displays given in appreciation of owner Jeff Barnhart’s support for area veterans. (Photo by Cynthia J. Thomas)
Branson’s Valerie Seitz gives update on cancer journey
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Nearly two years after her initial diagnosis of cancer, Branson resident Valerie Seitz, wife of State Representative Brian Seitz, is beginning to feel more like herself again. As any cancer patient will concur, the disease brings with it many physical, mental and emotional complications, but also rids many people of their basic identity.
Seitz was first diagnosed in August of 2022 with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma is her left breast. The cancer (ER Positive, PR Negative, HER 2 Positive, BRCA 2 Positive), had already metastasized to nearby lymph nodes. The diagnosis was Stage 4, with an additional Stage 1 tumor in the middle lobe of her right lung.
Traditional treatment for most cancer patients is chemotherapy, and Seitz began her treatment immediately.
“I started chemotherapy
on August 30, 2022. My combination included Taxotere, Carboplatin, Herceptin and Perjeta. We did every three weeks for six cycles, and then continued immunotherapy for a full year of Herceptin,” explained Seitz. “My first surgery in August of 2022 and was a port placement, my next was a radical bilateral mastectomy and removal of 17 lymph nodes in January of 2023.”
Radiation soon followed, and Seitz endured 33 rounds of the treatment.
Seitz was soon scheduled for a second surgery to remove the middle lobe of her right lung. It was this surgery that resulted in severe complications.
“I developed a pleural effusion in February 2024 which sent me back to the OR for a second thoracotomy,” explained Seitz.
Following the surgeries and complications, Seitz
now has some excellent news. “At this time, thanks to God and the support of my family, along with incredible doctors, I can say I’m cancer free. I will continue on cancer medication for the next five years,” said Valerie. “I’m finally starting to feel like myself again. The most difficult part of cancer often isn’t the physical pain, it’s that it strips you of your identity in a way. The emotional pain was every bit as difficult as the physical. I’m slowly regaining my strength and starting to do more things that I enjoy.”
Seitz credits her family and friends for helping her get through this difficult time. Said Valerie, “My support system was phenomenal. My wonderful husband Brian was able to be with me for every surgery, while still continuing to be an excellent state representative for our area.
My son Taylor took me to every radiation. My son Daniel and my daughterin-law Stella helped as they could even while living in Oklahoma, and my daughter Reagan and her husband Doug came up from Arkansas regularly. My extended family, church and members of the community, some I’ve never met, prayed for me and lifted me up to the Lord. I truly felt their love throughout the whole process.”
The smiling faces of Valerie’s grandchildren also helped during her recovery. Valerie and Brian are the proud grandparents to grandson Kal-El Brian and granddaughter Callie Jean. Their first grandchild, Jessie Jane, who sadly only lived an hour earthside, now awaits the family in heaven. The family was also blessed with two new additions this week. Twins—a boy and a girl—were born
‘Bring Haven Home’ Facebook page launched
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The family of Haven Shelton, the 19-year-old woman missing from Kimberling City, has created a Facebook Page to spread the word.
Bring Haven Home was a Facebook Page created on June 29, following the disappearance of Shelton on June 11. By Tuesday, July 2, the Facebook page had already garnered 786 likes and an additional 1,800 followers.
The Facebook page shows many photos of Haven, who suffers from significant mental illness as well as a medical condition, and is in need of medication.
The family created the Facebook page to spread the word regarding Haven’s disappearance, as well as to get information out to more people to be on the lookout for Haven.
Haven’s mother, Jan, is asking everyone to visit
the new page and “Like” it, then share the page with friends, in an effort to help the family find Haven. Additionally, if you do see Haven, please call 911 or contact the Stone County Sheriff’s Department.
Haven is 19 years old. She stands 5 foot tall, and weighs 110 pounds, with shoulder length brown hair, brown eyes and a noticeably fair complexion.
to son Daniel and daughterin-law, Stella on June 29. Wilson Allan and Mandalena Mae Seitz—along with Mom and---are doing well.
Seitz relied heavily on her strong faith, as well, during her journey.
“Without God and faith, I don’t know that I could have gotten through all of this. Prayer and faith played the biggest part in my recovery and my motto remains, ‘Either way, I WIN’,” Valerie explained.
Seitz shared some words of encouragement for anyone who is beginning or traversing their own cancer journey. “Hang in there, have faith, give yourself time to feel each emotion,” said Seitz. “Cry, scream, fight. You can do this and I’m in your corner. Feel free to reach out to me if you need to talk, need someone to hold your hand or pray with you.”
Valerie also wanted to
thank the community, including our Branson Globe readers, for their support and help throughout the past two years. Said Seitz, “Thank you to all who have prayed, reached out and been supportive throughout this journey. I truly cannot thank you enough. Your prayers, support, cards of encouragement, etc. are more than appreciated! OUR GOD IS SO GOOD.”
Seitz (Photo submitted)
Haven Shelton (Photo submitted)
Branson Convention Center’s July 2024 events to energize local economy
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Branson Convention Center, managed by ASM Global, is gearing up to host a series of dynamic events that will not only bring diverse and thrilling experiences to the community but also generate a positive economic impact for local businesses.
Branson Market Days
July 12-13, 2024
Branson Market Days
summer vendor market is a vibrant event held at the
Branson Convention Center in Branson featuring a diverse array of local and regional vendors showcasing handmade crafts, artisanal goods and unique products. This family-friendly market offers a lively atmosphere with live entertainment, delicious food trucks and fun activities for all ages. It’s the perfect opportunity to support local businesses, discover one-of-a-kind items and enjoy a delightful summer day in the community.
June 28 meeting. Juneman has led the effort for the Rotary Club to support the Pathways Project Coalition of the
member Kathy Isaacs. (Photo submitted)
is also the
Branson Pickleball Championship Experience
July 19-21, 2024
The Branson Pickleball Championship Experience is an exhilarating event held at the Branson Convention Center in Branson attracting players of all skill levels from across the region. This tournament offers competitive matches, skill clinics and social events, creating a vibrant community atmosphere for both participants and spec-
tators. With 15-plus courts and a picturesque setting, it promises an unforgettable experience for pickleball enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
MCPA Summer Expo
July 25-27, 2024
The MCPA Summer Expo is an exciting annual event that brings together chiropractic professionals, exhibitors and enthusiasts to showcase the latest advancements in chiropractic care, products and techniques. Hosted in a
dynamic and engaging environment, the expo features educational seminars, handson workshops and networking opportunities, providing valuable insights and connections for attendees. This premier event is a must-visit for anyone in the chiropractic field looking to stay updated on industry trends and discover innovative solutions to enhance their practice.
The Branson Convention Center is committed to fostering a thriving local
economy through the hosting of these events. We encourage businesses to take advantage of the increased visitor numbers and diverse audience demographics to promote their products and services.
For more information about these events or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact, Jordan Cannefax, Director of Sales and Marketing, Branson Convention Center, jcannefax@bransoncc.com
Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake call for nonprofit grant applications
Submitted to Branson Globe Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake, a local nonprofit organization engaged in fundraising to support charitable and humanitarian community projects, is pleased to announce that applications are being accepted for their 2025 grant funding. NFTRL encourages nonprofit agencies in Stone and Taney counties to apply for grants offered by the organization.
In the past 13 years, Neighbors and Friends’ fundraisers have raised over $600,000 for grants supporting the arts, youth programs, training initiatives, food banks, literary programs and other essential community need projects (e.g., diaper banks). Interested agencies in the identified counties may apply for 2025 grant money if they meet the following criteria:
• Are an active 501(c)(3) organization or under the umbrella of an active 501(c)(3); designed to meet existing or emerging community needs; Show program sustainability; Serve Stone and/or Taney County; and Do not require clients/ recipients to participate in religious training or practice a particular re-
ligious faith. Programs with a political affiliation are not eligible. Neighbors and Friends looks forward to receiving grant applications for up to $5,000 by August 1, 2024, from nonprofit organizations that meet the criteria. Further information about the grant program and applications for grants may be found at the organizational website: www.nftrl.org.
White River Connect: Reliable internet in Rockaway Beach
Submitted to Branson Globe
White River Connect, a subsidiary of White River Valley Electric Cooperative, is now signing up customers in parts of Rockaway Beach and Merriam Woods for its high-
speed fiber internet service. Construction began on White River Connect in June of 2023. The project, which will provide internet to rural areas of Christian, Douglas, Ozark, Stone, and Taney coun-
ties. It is expected to take four years to complete and will cover over 4,200 miles of fiber. Residents can visit https:// www.whiteriverconnect. com to view the map of service availability and sign up for service in those areas. People can also pre-register for areas coming soon. For more information about White River Connect, visit https://www.whiteriverconnect.com.
Missouri Dept. of Agriculture releases dairy cattle protocols for state fair
Mo.gov
The Missouri Department of Agriculture and Missouri State Veterinarian Steve Strubberg announce updated biosecurity protocols for dairy cattle exhibiting at the 2024 Missouri State Fair, scheduled for Aug. 8-18 in Sedalia.
All lactating dairy cattle must have a negative H5N1 influenza test within seven days prior to arrival at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Lactating
cows should be milked on personal milking machines. The Fairgrounds milking parlor will not be made available to exhibiting dairy cattle.
“These health requirements are in place for the 2024 Missouri State Fair in an effort to protect the dairy industry and all of agriculture,” Dr. Strubberg said. “There have been no cases of H5N1 influenza detected in Missouri dairy cattle. Still, we want to op-
erate in a manner of caution while allowing dairy exhibitors the opportunity to show their animals.”
MDA has provided guidelines for testing lactating dairy cows. Testing must be completed at a NAHLN veterinary diagnostic laboratory, such as the MDA Animal Health Laboratory in Springfield or the University of Missouri Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory in Columbia,
with samples submitted by an accredited veterinarian. There will be no laboratory charges for the test and results can be reported upon arrival to the Fair with a lab report or on the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection document.
Exhibitors and their veterinarians are asked to alert the laboratory prior to submission to ensure adequate time is allowed for results prior to the Missouri State
Fair. Samples must be collected from each lactating cow within seven days of arrival to the Fairgrounds.
The use of portable milking machines is another step to avoid spreading the virus unknowingly from one herd to another. Missouri State Fair staff will work with exhibitors to collect and properly dispose of the milk, which will not enter the food supply.
“The dairy cattle show is an
important and historical part of the Missouri State Fair,” Strubberg continued. “We want to do everything possible to continue the tradition of exhibiting dairy cattle at the Fair, while also maintaining healthy, safe dairy herds.” For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit the Department online at Agriculture. Mo.Gov.
ROTARY CLUB OF TABLE ROCK LAKE RECOGNIZES MEMBERS –
The Rotary Club of Table Rock Lake named Veloris Juneman its Rotarian of the Year. Juneman, pictured with Marshall Works, was recognized at the club’s
Ozarks, which fights human trafficking. Juneman
club’s president-elect. The club gave its Distinguished Service award to founding
6A • JULY 5, 2024
Reader’s Corner: New children’s book from Joanna Harris
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Readers of this column may remember being introduced to Joanna Harris, a young woman who has battled physical issues including chronic pain and multiple allergic reactions from adrenal illness. Those difficulties forced her to return home from overseas missionary work, yet she has found ways to continue encouraging others, writing about God’s grace during her struggles but also, more recently, some really excellent children’s literature.
what one mom, Brandy, who is also a teacher, had to say in the launch reviews:
Joanna’s newest children’s book, “All My Heart,” launched recently. Here’s
“’All My Heart’ is a sweet reminder for the smallest of God’s children that whatever you do in life, most especially in spending time with Jesus and loving Him, do it with all your heart! I can’t wait to share this book with my kids,
grandkids and students!”
In Joanna’s most recent newsletter, she referred to 2 Corinthians 4:7 in the Bible, which says, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” Joanna’s health challenges regularly remind her that our physical
bodies are clay pots, but the treasure inside—our gifts, our talents, any good we can do—is from God’s strength. Many authors have written from this stance—think of Helen Keller; or Springfield author and speaker Jennifer Rothschild, who is blind; or local author Anthony Rabak, whose story of his
journey with disability was featured in this column. Visit https://gracepossible.com to learn more about Joanna and check out “All My Heart,” maybe as a gift for a child in your life. Also check her quarterly articles in “Great Commission Kids”, at https://us.worldteam.org/gc-kids/.
Forsyth Library offers Summer Storytime throughout July
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Forsyth Library is offering Summer Storytime throughout the month of July.
Children are encouraged to attend each Wednesday morning through the end of the month.
Children will enjoy a fascinating story as well as a coloring project or craft. Crafts are geared to children ages four-
nine. Younger children are invited, but must be accompanied by a parent or adult to assist with the crafts.
Beat the summer heat and enjoy Story Time each Wednesday in July, 10 to 11 a.m. Seating is limited, so please register in advance by calling the Forsyth Library, 417-546-5257 The Forsyth Library is located at 162 Main Street in Forsyth.
Friends of the Library Book Store to offer Christmas in July
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Friends of the Library Book Store encourage you to beat the heat next week and join them for a special celebration. The Friends of the Library Book Store will be hosting Christmas in July on July 9, 10 and 11.
Visit the Book Store where you can enjoy Christmas cookies, Christmas music, a Christmas coloring activity for the
kids, and special pricing on all Christmas books and merchandise, storewide.
The Friends of the Li-
brary Book Store is a nonprofit organization, located in the lower level of the Library Center of the Ozarks, 200 South 4th
Street, Branson. Christmas in July is set for
Area organizations provide valuable information for Stone County seniors
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
On Tuesday, July 2, a group of Stone County senior citizens enjoyed socializing over banana splits, courtesy of 4 Ozark Seniors, Christian Action Ministries, and Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC). The event was hosted by 4 Ozark Seniors at their Table Rock Plaza location, 16585 St. Hwy. 13 in Branson West, which also serves as a weekly storefront pantry location for CAM.
Along with the ice cream treat, attendees received valuable information from Nathan Stearns of White River Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation about
ways to save energy and money while still keeping cool this summer. Suggestions included closing off unused rooms; sealing around windows, electrical outlets, and other common air leak areas; and installing a programmable thermostat or adjusting temperatures for extended periods away from home, with some thought also given to how hard the system must work to restore the desired temperature upon returning. Stearns also suggested attendees consider an energy audit, which OACAC coordinates with WRVECC for members to receive at greatly reduced cost. Recommendations made through
such an audit can often result in significant cost savings, especially with rebates or tax credits often available for costs of remedying problematic areas such as inefficient ductwork. Another topic that often surfaces is older, inefficient appliances, such as water heaters and refrigerators; again, there are often rebates or credits for qualifying customers if the audit recommends replacement.
During ensuing discussion, Stearns explained how the 3-tiered power distribution system used by electric cooperatives works; it is truly a cooperative system with savings trickling up from individual improvements,
which in turn inspire the rebate programs. Learn more by visiting https://www. whiteriver.org and selecting “Member Center,” or call 417-272-0181 (Stone County) or 417-335-9335 (Taney County).
Following the energy discussion, Jerry Harman with H2Ozarks spoke briefly about another frequent problem, that of failing septic systems in watershed areas. Grant funding is also available for qualifying families, to help remediate failing systems and prevent pollution of Table Rock Lake and other Ozarks watersheds. Harman cited the many contributions of the lakes to the local economy,
highlighting the importance of keeping them clean. A free inspection is available through H2Ozarks. Learn more at www.H2Ozarks. org/moseptic, or call 417739-5001.
Providing such educational—and fun—events is part of the 4 Ozark Seniors mission of “Guiding our neighbors and their families through life’s transitions with compassion and personalized focus.” Toward that end, they coordinate with organizations such as OACAC and CAM, as well as county health departments, to guide area senior citizens toward services they may need but not know how to find. Another part-
ner, Local Insurance Advisors, helps with navigating the sea of Medicare choices, and a recent partnership with Convoy of Hope and the Stone County Health Department is helping provide over-the-counter medicines and supplies.
Follow 4 Ozark Seniors and Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation on Facebook to stay up to date on events and resources. Mark your calendar for August 29, when OACAC will present valuable information for senior citizens who serve as kinship providers of foster care for grandchildren or other family members; meeting location is 16585 St. Hwy. 13, Suite L.
Flowers, for which Ann was noted, were a beautiful part of her celebration of life. (Photo by George Kurland)
Ann Bluto leaves a legacy of love and dedication
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A special memorial celebration paid honor and tribute to a well-known and muchloved business woman.
Lourette “Ann” Bluto passed away on May 14, at the age of 91. A celebration of life was held on June 28 at the Branson IMAX Complex, with a reception following at McFarlain’s Restaurant. Local singers Rick McEwen and Leroy New paid tribute in song.
Elevate Branson: Support Up With Kids! with your spare change
Submitted to Branson Globe
Your spare change supports our area children. Through the end of July, be on the lookout for our Up With Kids! coin buckets stationed at all the participating businesses listed below.
Thanks to our business participants and your spare change, we can continue to empower our community by providing meals, resources and educational opportunities to our area’s underserved children while school is out of session for the summer.
Help us ensure the kids in our community have continued access to the things they need for their mind, body and spirit.
How can you help?
Donate your spare change at these participating busi-
MW: It is up for sale.
BG: Will the new police station improve the police response times for calls?
MW: Yes. Its central locations will result in improved response time.
BG: Where is it located?
MW: On an 11.8-acre parcel of land at 2255 Gret-
nesses!
A & L Automotive; AJ’s One Stop; Apple Tree Mall; Arvest Bank; Beef Jerky Experience (downtown); Bender’s Auto Body; Big O’ Tires Branson; Body Works Day Spa and Salon; Branson Bank, Gretna; Branson Bank, The Falls; Branson Family Dentistry; Branson Meadows Cinemas 11; Branson United Methodist Thrift Shop; Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex; Candy Emporium. Central Bank 248; Central Bank, Hollister; Cheeky Monkey; Coffee On The Rocks; Comet Cleaners; Crazy Craig’s Cheeky Monkey Bar; Crazy Craig’s Treehouse; Don’t 4 Get About Me; Famous Dave’s Branson; Fat Donny’s Barber Shop; First Community Bank, Forsyth;
na Road that includes a 66,500-square-foot building formerly the White House Theater.
BG: It’s unusual for a vacant theater to be used as a police station. What led to the decision to purchase the theater for modification and use as the new Branson Police Station?
MW: As part of the due
First Community Bank, Hollister; Fuddruckers; Getting’ Basted; Gourmet Bouquet; Grace Family Church; Green Mountain Lube & Wash; Hawaii Fluid Art.
JC Dry Cleaners; Main Street Café; Nature’s Wonders; Orlando Sun Branson; Pickin Porch Grill; Pizza
By The Chef; Pizza By The Slice; Ruby’s Food & Fuel; Starvin’ Marvin’s; Steamy Joe Café; Strickland Brothers 10 Minute Oil Change; Vintage Paris; Vision Clinic; WonderWorks; Works of Art Embroidery & Screen Printing; Worley Real Estate Network brokered by EXP.
You may also make an online donation at elevatebranson.org/donate/ Elevate Branson is located at 310 Gretna Road, Branson.
diligence for property acquisition, a feasibility study was conducted to assess the building’s suitability for a new police department. Following the feasibility study, the city did a Spatial Needs [space] Assessment. After determining that the space was more than adequate for current and expected needs, the design process,
Ann Bluto was well known in the Branson tourism industry. She and her husband of 44 years, Paul, owned and operated the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex (recently celebrating their 30th anniversary at IMAX) and the Branson Meadows Cinema, located in the Shoppes at Branson Meadows. Ann and Paul were also owners of several Branson area restaurants—McFarlain’s Family
Restaurant, Florentina’s and Heroes Tastes and Taps.
A hands-on owner, Ann Bluto was dedicated to her businesses and her hard work paid off, as each of the businesses owned by the Bluto family continues to flourish.
Although known and loved by those living in and visiting Branson for many years, Ann and Paul previously resided in Fullerton, California, where Ann
owned and operated a mailing and print establishment. Ann is survived by her husband Paul, and their seven children, 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.
Ann Bluto leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, kindness, generosity and unwavering love for her family and friends. She will be also be remembered for her faith and flowers.
Community prayer event is July 26
Submitted to Branson Globe
The next community wide prayer event will be on Friday, July 26, from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
What is a community prayer event? It is a gathering
of individuals in the community who come together and pray for different segments of the community, such as our local police department, fire fighters, local churches, and many more. God has
Update on Elevate Kids summer school program
Submitted to Branson Globe
Meet Suzie Thomason, PHD, Assistant Professor of Education in Early Childhood at Evangel University. Dr. Thomason came to Elevate Branson several years ago wanting to do her dissertation on reading levels of children who live in weekly and extended stay motels. We were thrilled for her to do this and as a result, Dr. Thomason has been instrumental in creating our Summer School Program
incorporating the demolition of the building interior and its repurposing as a police department, began. The planning is done, the Board has approved financing, and construction will begin.
BG: What is the anticipated timeline for the construction and completion of the project?
MW: Construction will
and After School Program as well.
We currently have 35 kids attending Summer School, three days a week through June and July. We are incredibly blessed to have Dr. Thomason on board and have seen great improvements in our kiddos with the phonics program she has put in place. Thank you, Dr. Thomason.
If you have any areas of giftedness and passion that you would be interest-
begin in July 2024 and take about 540 days to complete, with the police department moving in no later than the “end of the year 2025.”
BG: What is the total cost of the project?
MW: The total cost, including planning, construction and finish, is $15,792,002.
BG: What three items cost the most in total project costs?
MW: Construction costs, at $12,481,194, are the number one item, followed by professional services, at $1,754,506, and IT Technology, at $497,077.
BG: Of the 66,500 total square feet in the building, how many will be renovated and repurposed for the police department now?
the power to transform these segments for the better of the community at large.
All are welcome to join the prayer event at the Elevate Branson campus, 310 Gretna Road.
Elevate Kids summer school program (Photo courtesy of Elevate Branson)
ed in helping with, please call Jeremy Weimer, our volunteer coordinator, at 417-593-2254 or visit us at https://elevatebranson.org/ elevate-outreach/
MW: The total renovation area will cover 42,365 square feet of the 66,500 available.
BG: Specifically, from a day-to-day functional point of view, how will the space be allocated?
MW: The space in the three renovated levels will be as follows: The main level will have 13,003 square feet for police functions and temporary holding cells, a 2,090 square foot Sallyport, 3,063 square feet for SWAT and evidence, 243 square feet for bike storage, and 13,799 square feet for a lobby and locker rooms. The lower level will have 3,102 square feet for evidence, and the upper level will have 7,065 square feet for combined police and fire administration.
BG: What will happen with the remaining unrenovated space?
MW: The remaining space will be “white boxed” and used as a training area for the police and fire departments until a decision is made to use it for another purpose. In subsequent weeks we will do a similar interview with Branson Police Chief Eric Schmitt relative to the functional aspects of the new facility and how it better helps police officers serve and protect our community.
75 Doc Miller Rd., Blue Eye
(the old Spicy Tomatoes Restaurant on Hwy 13)
Revolutionary War period featured in Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum displays
Submitted to Branson Globe Historic artifacts related to American independence and the Founding Fathers are on display at the Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum in Branson West. This week’s celebrations of our nation’s freedom are a great remind-
WAKE UP, AMERICA!
Come to me, all you who are burdened and stressed, and I will give you my rest
In times, such as these, be a faithful, not a fearful, generation. Seek first my heavenly kingdom and I will heal your land and provide you with a peace that surpasses all human understanding. You are in the world, but not of the world
Trust me.
Be obedient and abide in my Word
Be anxious for nothing and remember I am in control. I will never leave you nor forsake you. Stand firm and keep on the full armor of God.
er to reflect on what some of those artifacts represent. Several of the items relate to John Hancock. Perhaps best known for his famous signature on the Declaration of Independence, Hancock played an important role in the birth of the United States. Since he was highly involved in the creation of the Declaration, it should be no surprise that he was the first person to sign, boldly and clearly, the document that declared the colonies separate and independent from Great Britain in 1776.
Among the interesting displays is a merchant ledger, dated March 3, 1766, that has John Hancock’s
name in the cargo list. Born to a country parson, the future Founding Father was adopted by his childless uncle, a wealthy Boston merchant. Educated at Harvard College, where he entered at age 13, Hancock mastered the family import-export business, expanding it to include building ships which carried whale oil to Britain and returned with a load of consumer goods for his chain of retail stores.
During the 1774 Boston Massacre, Hancock stated, “Some boast of being friends to government; I am a friend to righteous government, to a government founded upon the principles
of reason and justice, but I glory in publicly avowing my eternal enmity to tyranny.” Before the Revolution, Hancock used his personal wealth to bankroll the independence movement by raising money for the war, helping secure troops, and playing a key role in sustaining a naval force.
The British targeted Boston’s most popular radical leaders, including Hancock and Samuel Adams, for arrest; when British troops searched for them in Lexington and Concord, both took refuge in a church basement. In a carriage stuffed with gold, silver and negotiable notes to fund the Revolution, Hancock, as New England’s wealthiest merchant, escaped to Philadelphia for the Second Continental Congress, of which he was named president in 1775.
Hancock was also a committed Christian who prayed, regularly read his Bible, and practiced forgiveness of individuals who wronged him. As the first governor of Massachusetts, he called his state on 22 occasions to times of prayer and fasting or prayer and thanksgiving.
patriots about the route of the British advance to Concord.
Other relics in the museum collection from the Revolutionary War period include a piece of wood from a beam replaced during preservation work at Old North Church, the oldest church standing in Boston and whose bells are the oldest in any American church. The church rose to fame on the night of April 18, 1775, when church custodian and patriot Robert Newman climbed the steeple and hung the lanterns —“one if by land, two if by sea”—arranged by Paul Revere as a secret signal to alert
• DISTRICT Continued from page 1A
port from the State of Missouri,” said Ann McDowell, communications liaison for the 76ECID. “This project is one of the largest public-private economic development efforts in Missouri. With help from many supporters and advocates, we were able to show that our proven, revenue-producing, community-supported project was worth the investment,” said
Another display is of a framed commemorative knife, its nine-inch blade engraved with the words “The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America.” The five-inch handle is made of wood from the last remaining Liberty Tree, a 400-year-old tulip poplar which stood on the grounds of St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, until Hurricane Floyd brought it down in 1999. Liberty Trees sprang up throughout the colonies during the Revolutionary period, as a meeting place for colonists to protest, give speeches and hang messages related to the cause. When Loyalists to the British crown would tear down these symbols, the rebels would simply put them up
McDowell. The 76 Entertainment District revitalization project was launched in 2012 when the City of Branson prioritized improvements to West Highway 76 in a comprehensive planning process. Thereafter, the 76 Conceptual Master Plan was approved (2014) concentrating on enhanced pedestrian safety, improving the District’s visual appeal, water line volume and reliability, plus a relocation of all utilities underground. The first segment, completed in 2022, extends mid-corridor from Presley’s Country Jubilee to the Branson Ferris Wheel.
again. Wood from the last surviving tree was used to make handles for 1,776 commemorative knives; the one displayed in Branson West is No. 628.
Dedicated to preserving our nation’s faith-based history, the collection at Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum includes American wartime exhibits from the Revolution to the terrorist attacks in 2001. Other key moments in 20th-century history commemorated at the museum include the Pearl Harbor attack, the American home front, the Holocaust, the Kennedy assassination, the moon landings, and the Golden Age of baseball in the 1940s and 1950s. Located at 15025 Business Highway 13, the Museum is open Sunday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Two additional segments are nearly ready to break ground, with the design from the Shepherd of the Hills Expressway to Gretna Road 90% complete. Construction should begin in early 2025. It’s important to remember the significant role that tourism in the Branson region holds in Missouri,” said Mayor of Branson, Larry Milton. “Missouri Division of Tourism reports show us among the top destinations in the state. By working together, our Branson area partners are helping both Branson and the State of Missouri grow and prosper,” concluded the mayor.
ABOVE: Framed knife from the museum collection AT RIGHT: Painting of John Hancock (Photos submitted by Jim Zbick - Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum)
HE PUT HIS JOHN HANCOCK ON IT – A portion of the document with John Hancock’s name listed at the bottom (Photo submitted by Jim Zbick – Faith, Family & Country Heritage Museum)
DEATH NOTICES
Albamonte, Aletha Jean 82 Lampe Stumpff Funeral Home
Allman, Mary (Pat) Patricia 97 Seminole, FL Cremations of the Ozarks Altis, Doris 92 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Bair, Skyler 29 Merriam Woods Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Boitnott, Sally Box 73 Branson Cremations of the Ozarks Cain, Betty 92 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
DeAtley, Pamela Marie 53 Reeds Spring Stumpff Funeral Home
of
Kay 56
65
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One vehicle stolen every 31 seconds: July is Vehicle Theft Protection Month
https://dci.mo.gov/
This July, the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) joins the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in observing Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. The Missouri DCI encourages drivers to protect their vehicles and review insurance coverage. Vehicle theft is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the United States, costing vehicle owners more than $8 billion annually. According to NHTSA, more than one million vehicles were stolen in 2023, which accounts for a 25% increase in vehicle theft totals over the previous few years. Es-
• TRAFFICKING
Continued from page 1A
promoting prostitution.
Fentanyl and methamphetamine were also seized.
Advocates were able to meet with three of the potential victims for a second follow-up meeting for advocacy. Pathways Project Coalition collaborated with law enforcement teams to serve as a case manager. Numerous services and practical necessities were also delivered to potential victims
timates show that approximately one vehicle is stolen every 31 seconds.
“Most Missourians depend on their personal vehicles for essential transportation needs, such as commuting, attending appointments and carrying out daily errands,” said Chlora Lindley-Myers, Director of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance.
“Losing a vehicle to theft not only causes a substantial financial setback but also creates a deep sense of vulnerability and disruption. It’s always important to take precautionary measures to reduce your risk of vehicle theft – wherever you may be.”
Vehicle theft can happen anytime, anywhere, to any-
throughout the operation.
This recent activity only begins to reveal the scope of the problem in the local area, with many at-risk youth being coerced via social media. Pathways Project Coalition, directed by Veloris Juneman, is actively working to promote awareness and education to help combat trafficking in Taney and Stone counties. Their presentations include alerting citizens to red flags to watch for and training parents, teachers and other adults in key
one. Remember these tips to keep your vehicle safe: Park in well-lit areas.
• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
• Hide your valuables. Do not leave your keys in your vehicle. Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running.
Consider purchasing extra layers of protection for your vehicle if your manufacturer does not provide an anti-theft system. These can easily be bought in-store or online. If your vehicle has electronic transmission technology, consider turning this on or keeping the subscription, as this technology can assist law
roles to be vigilant about social media use.
Current coalition projects include ongoing conversations with area schools and other youth organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ozarks. Watch for information tables at area back-to-school events. Volunteers are welcomed; the Coalition meets monthly, alternating between a Taney County and Stone County location. Learn more by visiting the Pathways Project Coali-
enforcement in revealing the location of the stolen vehicle.
If your vehicle has been stolen, contact local law enforcement to provide the license plate number, year, make, model and color of your vehicle and the VIN. Then contact your insurance carrier. If the vehicle was taken by someone in the same household, review your policy before filing a claim. Many insurance policies will not treat vehicles taken by someone with regular access to it as a theft, regardless of whether they have driven the vehicle before.
It is also a common misconception that in the event of theft, all items in the vehicle are covered by your auto policy. Most auto pol-
tion Facebook page; more is accomplished when everyone works together!
Message from Branson Police Chief Schmitt (Branson Police Department Facebook page): The Branson Police Department wants the public to know that we take these crimes very seriously. While the human trafficking suspects and victims were not from the Branson area, that practice is absolutely abhorrent. The participating agencies are
icies only cover items typically required for vehicle use, such as car seats, jumper cables, or spare tires. Personal belongings such as cellphones, laptops, purses and wallets would need to be filed as a separate claim under your homeowners or renter’s policy, which may have limited coverage for personal property away from home.
Some policies have a waiting period before payout for a theft claim, in case the vehicle is recovered. If mechanical issues occur after a vehicle is stolen and recovered, they will generally need to be diagnosed before an insurance carrier reviews them for consideration as part of a theft loss. If inoperable or awaiting repairs,
the policyholder should ensure their vehicle is moved to a free storage location to avoid incurring extra out-ofpocket expenses.
For any insurance questions, Missouri consumers can call DCI’s Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800726-7390, or visit insurance.mo.gov/consumers. For more information on motor vehicle theft prevention, visit NHTSA.gov/ theft.
DCI is charged with protecting Missouri consumers through oversight of the insurance industry, banks, credit unions, utilities and various professional licensees operating in the state. For more information about the department, please visit our website at dci.mo.gov.
committed to continued operations to prevent traffickers from considering our Tri-Lakes region as a place to operate. Equally important is the message to potential customers, that our agencies will arrest and charge them for soliciting crimes. I am proud of the teamwork exhibited by all agencies in bringing these criminals to justice and working diligently to help the victims exit that life.
We can help you with your rent, groceries and gas. Please call to get the details 417-337-3772.
Diaz, Susan
Belton Cremations
the Ozarks Hendry, Robin Scott
Hollister Cremations of the Ozarks Keeper, Gary Gene
Hurley Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane Nalley, William “Bud”
Kissee Mills Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Wooten, Rose 77 Hollister Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
BY EVANGELIST TIM KIDWELL, Branson Church of Christ
On August 5, 2010, a mine located deep
Two months in hell
in the Atacama Desert of Chile, South America, caved in, trapping 33 workers. The buried men, who became known as “Los 33” (The 33), were trapped 2,300 feet underground, about three miles from the mine’s entrance. Before being rescued, the mixed crew of experienced miners and less experienced technical support person-
nel, survived for a record 69 days deep underground. After sixty-nine long, dark days, the trapped miners in Chile begin to emerge from their 2,300 foot deep tomb. In a letter to his family written while still trapped, one miner spoke of the darkness and heat of his tomb as “hell.” Yet there remain several major differences; this man had hope of
leaving his pit of darkness. Those who find themselves in the lake of fire God has created, have no chance of ever leaving. It is everlasting. The heat those miners experienced would be a frozen tundra compared to the heat of God’s fire. It is eternal torment (Rev. 20:10; Matt. 25:41).
Those trapped in the mine were able to enjoy the
comfort of some lighting. They were not in complete darkness. Imagine trying to survive that experience in utter darkness; and yet those who will be cast into the Devil’s Hell will exist in complete darkness for eternity (Matt. 25:30). Why is there no light in hell? Because hell is a place of separation. Those in hell are separated from God
and since God is light (1 John 1:5), it is impossible for there to be illumination in that place of eternal torment. For the first seventeen days the miners had to ration their food and water. How much water did they have? Enough water to give them relief from the heat of their tomb. How comSEE TWO MONTHS, PAGE 3B
Los 33 – The 33 – Chilean miners who were able to escape their hell. Those trapped in actual hell, won’t have that hope. (FILE)
pinion
First Amendment to the United States Constitution Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com
GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist
KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com
PATTY
DOERPINGHAUS Stone Co. Account Rep. (530) 739-5560 pattyd.ads@gmail.com
MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian
LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer luanna65@hotmail.com
The comments on opinion pages are the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily those of the Branson Globe, or its staff. Have something to say? Share it with us in your own Letter to the Editor. Letters to the editor sent via e-mail and fewer than 400 words are given preference. Published or unpublished letters become the property of the newspaper and will not be returned. All letters must include, name, address, and verifiable phone number. The editors may refuse publication of any letter that is libelous, in poor taste, or that endorses a business or product. Letters are subject to editing.
BY GARY
GROMAN
Signed on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence declared the independence of the thirteen colonies from British rule. It states that all men are created equal and have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. To support that, its signers, “with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence,” made a mutual pledge to each other of their lives, fortunes and “sacred honor.” These words were not just empty promises; they were the foundation of America then, and just as necessary for America’s survival today.
The defenders of the Alamo were 189 men who fought to the death against Santa Anna’s army, which numbered in the thousands. They knew the odds were against them, but they fought anyway, inspired by their dedication to purpose and willingness to sacrifice their lives for a noble cause.
Colonel Travis, the leader of the Alamo defenders, gave his men a choice: to es-
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
Observing people in church and at various faith-based meetings, I’ve noticed many people enjoy the convenience of having the Bible handy on their phones. The You Version app even allows churches to enter services as events and upload sermon notes and scriptures, making it very handy to follow along with the message, click on related Bible verses, and
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design
T
he sun glistens waxy oak leaves, so dark green the leaves appear almost black in the bright. The summer is hot. The wind is hot. When temperatures rise like this, the forest becomes a different place. Cedars release their oil into the atmosphere and the oaks in all their density and grandeur begin to smell, well, like oaks. The smell is subtle but impossible to overlook once experienced. The forest smells of standing in an old oak cabin on
cape, surrender, or continue to fight with the certainty of death. Despite the favorable chances of escape, everyone except for one remained in the fight, determined to see it through. They realized they couldn’t win. Despite the price, they fought on because they believed it was proper and necessary to fight the army of Santa Anna at that time, in that place. They were willing to sacrifice their lives for that cause and did so with courage and honor.
The spirit of “Remember the Alamo” represents that which is courageous, hon-
orable and worthy of commitment in the hearts of individuals and nations. That same spirit was in the hearts of the signers of the Declaration of Independence when they pledged their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor” on behalf of a new nation. It has been present in America, from Valley Forge to Mount Suribachi, Vietnam, Baghdad, Afghanistan and countless other places in between.
The Alamo defenders were not the only ones who have shown this spirit throughout America’s history. From the soldiers who fought in the
Revolutionary War to the firefighters who rushed into the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001, Americans have always been willing to commit and sacrifice their all for the sake of their country and their fellow citizens.
America’s foundation is not just its institutions, laws, or government. It’s its people and the spirit that animates and drives them. A spirit of courage, honor, duty and commitment as necessary to America today as it was when our Forefathers, “with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence,” made a
mutual pledge to each other of their lives, fortunes, and “sacred honor” as they put their signatures on the Declaration of Independence. Without that spirit, America would not have been born and will not long endure. As we celebrate America’s birthday, let us remember that spirit, unite and pledge to each other “our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor,” just as the signers of the Declaration of Independence did over two hundred years ago. Happy Birthday, America! Happy Birthday!
Reflections: Have your sword ready
even take notes. (Side note: if you do this, turn off your other notifications except maybe immediate family and tornado warnings; distraction is really a thing.)
Other people, though, enjoy using their print Bible in church. I’m one of those— but surprisingly, not all of them are in my age group. At my church, I regularly see young adults carrying a study Bible, notebook and pen, ready to engage actively with the sermon. In talking with them, I find that I’m not the only person who uses an app for an online study community, but keeps a print Bible and physical notebook handy.
Seeing young people carrying Bibles takes me back a few decades to junior Sunday School classes
a hot afternoon. The forest smells of ancient wood, of sacrifice, of hope, and honoring the past, the ancestors on the breeze.
A bend in the trail, a clearing, something of a grassy meadow. First fruits, blackberries, ripening amid the brambles. Mindful of snakes, I taste a few berries. It seems only days ago, these berries were just cold, white blossoms in a cold gray rain. Blackberry winter, we called it. The blackberries are sweet, juicy. You need the right amount of water in the soil at the right time to plump the berries, but you also need the hot sun to make them sweet — a combination that never seemed to be right in the meadows at home, long ago. The hot breeze tussles the canes. Hard to believe that, without human inter-
and youth meetings, where we regularly had “sword drills”—competitions to see who could locate most rapidly the scripture references the leader called out. To be prepared for these drills, we regularly recited the books of the Bible in order, Old and New Testament, but the competitions quickly revealed who actually practiced finding scriptures outside of the drill, for personal reading, in church, or both. Our leaders regularly reminded us of Paul’s list of the armor of God, including “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17).
Many years later, I realize that knowing my way around the Bible was about
vention, wild blackberries – heck, wild everything — has been breathing and breeding and creating since time immemorial. Humans are never as important as we think, but we also are part of this wild and wooly universe pulsing with life. Afternoon, then evening, shade comes in weird relief. The hot summer wind is still there, now in the shade of the forest. A gray racer flicks his tongue, testing the air. Somewhere not far off, a dog barks. The sound of traffic returns to the world. There is a lost innocence after an afternoon like this. Some dreams crumbling, some unfurling in the summer sun. Climate control — and for air conditioning I am thankful — walls us away from the elements, heavy drapes keep out the blinding heat. Comfort, yes,
much more than a contest at youth group (which I often won). It was foundational to understanding why there is an Old and a New Testament; how the books align historically; and most importantly, how it all points to Jesus and God’s plan for eternity.
I’ve heard testimonies of people in restricted nations who literally walked for days just to receive a Bible, some risking punishment if caught, but excited to take this priceless treasure back to their families or underground church. More recently, I’ve also heard about people who are able to access a digital Bible on their phone even though it is not safe, or even possible, to get a print one. I’m thankful for the printing
but also distance. Distance from the earth and the turn of the year. Distance can be dangerous. Reality catches us unawares. The world changes in a turn. War, famine, supply chain, inflation, economy, society. Trust is gained, trust is lost. On social media, we each may find our own sense of celebrity, our own voice, real, or artificial. Looking back, it feels at times I grew up in an America that was some sort of strange dream. Four news stations, all with the same script. An AP wire dangerous only in its gatekept straight-lacedness. Sure, we had our squabbles, but we were number one, kept square and fair and constantly reminded that it was “those” countries over there, somewhere far away with their funny
press that improved access to Scripture centuries ago; I’m also thankful for technology that puts it into more hands today. Jesus knew sharing the gospel to all nations would not be easy. He warned his disciples in Luke 22, “The one with a purse should take it, and likewise a bag; and the one without a sword should sell his cloak and buy one.” In other words, be prepared! I can’t help thinking that advice made it to Paul via some of those disciples, leading to the sword analogy of being prepared by knowing the Word. Regardless of what we may face, knowing and studying the Bible helps us answer questions from a hurting world with confidence that God is with us.
ways and a dearth of freedom, which propagandized and lied and were a threat to liberty. If you never stray from the prescribed path, you never know the guards or the gates or the walls. Excommunication never comes for the holy, or the perfect. It is funny to watch an empire fall, even if the empire is only within our own minds. The world has indeed changed. Or has it? The summer wind still tussles the berry canes in the high grass. The racer still tests the air, gray, sleek ribbon rippling in the dust. Somewhere, not far off, a dog barks. I stand in the sun amid oak, an ancient and whispering place, the crossroads of time and space, grateful for those closest. And I whisper to myself, “The future is what we make it.”
J.
a.k.a. The Ole Seagull
BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist
Too often we forget that discipline means to teach, not to punish. A disciple is a student, not a recipient of behavioral consequences.
-Daniel J. Seigel
What is the purpose of discipline? I believe most of society understands the benefits of discipline. It is safe to say that we have all experienced that unruly kid
BY PAT LAMB Columnist
My husband and I were surprised on many occasions to note that many children do not know how to say the Pledge of Allegiance correctly. I have noted children who do not know which hand to use. Many young men do not
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer
Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 6:1
My husband, Aaron, tells the story of how a woman in his church complimented him one Sunday
Love and parenting: Discipline with love
in a restaurant, or the bully child on the playground or the mouthy teenager who makes navigating the classroom difficult. There are obvious societal benefits to well behaved children. Still, that begs the question, “What is the purpose of discipline?” If discipline is solely to make the child more amicable and the adults’ life easier, then why have children? Seriously... what’s the point? Raising children can be one of the most challenging, all encompassing, sacrificial jobs on planet earth. If discipline is to keep children out of our hair, why bother?
I believe that the family is the proving ground for
the rest of a child’s life, that children will always remember the way a parent made them feel, that discipline with love gives them a sense of peace and stability, teaches that it’s ok to make mistakes and important to learn from their mistakes, that they need an understanding that discipline is about helping them to become the best version of themselves and that it is to gradually teach them to develop a character that doesn’t need to be subject to societal rules to live with integrity.
Discipline is as vital for a child as healthy food, sunshine, exercise, cognitive development and love. Children need discipline to
help them navigate life’s challenges as they become adults. Children who are not disciplined are typically unhappy, angry and resentful. Why? Because they are looking to the most important people in their life to show them how to live. Children have a built-in expectation for their parents to love, teach and protect them.
I have never forgotten my friend from high school who was one of the most respectful, nice kids to me and told me that he was horrible at home. When I asked him why he behaved the way he did if he knew it was wrong, he said, “Because my dad won’t pay attention to me, and I need him. Bad atten-
tion is still attention.” My teenage friend was starving not only for his father’s attention, but his “intention.”
Our children need us, and they need to be taught by us with intention. When we discipline with love, we are sending a message to them that they are worth the time and effort to “raise them up in the way they should go.”
In closing, here are some final thoughts on learning to discipline with love.
1. If everything is a big deal, then nothing is a big deal.
2. Practice saying things you do not have to apologize for.
3. Being overly critical strengthens the roots of poor behavior.
4. Being overly lenient teaches entitlement.
5. Speak life to your children all day every day.
6. Play with them so that you have the relationship foundation to teach them on.
7. Teach them that mistakes are often how we learn and give them grace to learn. If you have been enjoying my articles, please visit hshaygood.com and click
The Love Journey tab to order your copy of my new book and sign up for my inspirational emails. I keep emails fresh and different from my weekly Globe articles.
“Love is a journey not a destination.”
Train Up a Child: Teaching children to respect ‘Old Glory’
know to remove their caps when the Pledge is said. I dare say that many probably do not know what the words “pledge” and “allegiance” truly mean. Also, many children do not know what our national anthem is. There are many adults, as well as children, who think “America, the Beautiful” is the national anthem. Children need to be taught these things. It might help develop their respect for our flag if they knew the story of how our national anthem, the “Star Spangled Banner,” was written.
Our national anthem was written by Francis Scott
Key. He was born in 1779 in western Maryland, just a few years after our Declaration of Independence was signed. His family was very wealthy and owned an estate called “Terra Rubra.” When he was ten years old, his parents sent him to a grammar school in Annapolis, Maryland, and he graduated at age 17. He then studied to be a lawyer. He was a deeply religious man and was active in the Episcopal Church. He was asked to help negotiate the release of a prisoner from the British during the war of 1812. He was actually on a ship headed back for Maryland
Breakfast at Tiffany’s:
morning on his drum playing during the praise and worship. Not wanting to seem arrogant, he responded, “All glory to God!” She then replied, “Well, it wasn’t that good.”
I think we’ve all had that awkward moment when someone compliments us on something, and we aren’t quite sure how to respond. Will they think I’m taking all the glory if I receive their compliment with thanks? If I don’t deflect the attention off myself or add a self-deprecating comment, am I forfeiting my heavenly reward by letting their praise encourage me?
Sometimes, we as Chris-
tians can overcomplicate things in an effort to conform to certain scriptural truths. Noble as those efforts might be, I think it’s important to ask ourselves if we are truly capturing the essence of what God intended to communicate in certain Bible passages. In this instance, the scripture passage that people often overcomplicate is Matthew 6:1-6. Jesus is admonishing his listeners not to practice their righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. He called people who do such things as giving to the poor or praying long prayers just so others will see them hypocrites, and adds that
Out of the mouths of babes...
COMPILED BY TIFFANY
GRAVETT, Staff Writer
When I am 100 years old, by Emma…
When I turn 100 years old, I will be tired of everything and everyone. So, I will tell everyone I’m going to Canada but actually go to the Bahamas. I’ll live in a tiny hut with my tiny dog. I will order fish tacos when I’m hungry, and live my best life.*
***
One day my son, Curtis, who was about four, and I
forting it must have been to know they had water on reserve. How refreshing it must have been to have water poured into their dry mouth as they suffered from heat and weariness. These men obviously were able to quench their thirst on a semi-regular basis. In hell the desire for water
were going to church. I said let’s pray before we get there and so we did. A couple minutes passed and he said, “Dad, does it count when you pray with your eyes open?” I prayed while I was driving, of course. I thought that was so sincere and cute.
***
Chloe: Hey, Mom, I found a key. I bet it goes to the front door.
Me: Careful. Locks and shuts the door
Chloe: Hey, Mom, it’s not to the front door.
will never be satisfied. Imagine being so thirsty that you would find joy in having just one drop of water placed on your tongue (Lk. 16:23-24) and yet never receiving any relief. How desperately lost the miners must have felt for the first 17 days when no one on the surface knew whether they were dead or alive. How
So now we wait outside for Dad to get home!
***
Jeremiah (age 5): When can we go to heaven?
Mom: When God decides.
Jeremiah: He’s trying to think about it first?
***
My daughter Gabrielle was about seven, and we were leaving Michigan traveling to Kentucky to visit family. She volunteered to pray as we got on the highway. She prayed for a safe
jubilant the atmosphere in their tomb must have become when they realized those on the surface learned that they were alive and were working to rescue them. These men were helpless but no longer hopeless. Even though these men had no idea how long they would remain underground, they could see light at the end of their long, dark tunnel.
with the released prisoner when the British attacked Ft. McHenry. The ship was stopped until the end of the attack on the fort and from the ship, the attack was observed. It was from this ship that Francis Scott Key looked to see if our American flag was still standing after the British withdrew the attack. He was happy to see the flag was still there and he took pen and paper and wrote the poem that became the words to the national anthem.
The British had bombarded Ft. McHenry for 25 hours and finally decided they could not capture it and
withdrew. The poem written by Francis Scott Key was originally named “The Defense of Ft. McHenry.” It was handed out as a handbill and the public fell in love with it. It was renamed “The Star Spangled Banner” and became a song. It wasn’t until 1931 that it became the national anthem.
After the war, Francis Scott Key continued to live a very religious life. Because of his religion, he had been against the war of 1812, but he did serve in the war in the Georgetown artillery in 1813 because he loved his country so much. On January 11,
Flowers for Jesus
they will not be rewarded by God because they have already received their reward in full.
I don’t think that Jesus was trying to say here that it’s wrong to accept compliments when others happen to see the good we do. He was trying to get to the heart of the matter, which literally begins in the heart of the individual. He wanted his followers to do things out of a genuine love for God and others—not to bring attention to themselves. Because it is a natural response for people to praise those who they appreciate or admire, Jesus warned us not to fall into the trap of allowing
trip and said, “And God, please don’t let us run out of food.” Love her faith in God.
***
Me: Hey, Mal. What are your markers all doin over there?
Mal (age 4): “Sorry, my wife put them over there. She’s crazy. “
***
My wife was going out of town, so my daughter, Cara, brought me to Pluckers for Father’s Day. She told the server, “His wife is leaving
While they could do nothing but wait, they had reason to remain optimistic. They had reason to feel relief while still in their pit of torment. In the Devil’s Hell there is not even a glimmer of hope of ever leaving. Those who are cast into outer darkness will wish that their torment would only last for 69 days, 69 weeks, 69 years,
that to be our motivation. He wants us to evaluate the intentions of our heart long before we actually carry something out. Now think of it from the perspective of the one giving praise to someone else for something they did that blessed you in some way. How do you feel when your heartfelt appreciation is met with deflection, false humility, or a seeming rebuke for praising them instead of God for what they did? It can be a little humiliating, especially if giving compliments is difficult for you to begin with.
I once heard a wise woman of God illustrate this scenario in a way that forever
him.” Cara, age 9
***
Thoughts from Samuel, age 5, while running his lemonade stand…
“In the real world, when you work, a lot of people will stop by. Like when you sell lemonade. So, if you’re homeless, you need to save your money from the first day. But we also need to give them lemonade, they don’t need to pay us any money.”
***
Lucas (age 6): Why is
1843, while visiting his daughter in Baltimore, he died of pleurisy. There are monuments to him at Ft. McHenry, the Presidio in San Francisco, in Baltimore and Frederick, Maryland. If children can be helped to understand the love that Francis Scott Key had for our country and our flag, they will better love and respect them both. There are many good books in public libraries that can be checked out to give more information about our flag and country. It is worth the time and effort to use these with children.
changed how I respond to praise from others. She said that each time someone gives you a compliment for something you’ve done for God, think of it as though they are giving you a flower. Receive it with gratitude without adding any unnecessary platitudes. Then gather those flowers into a beautiful bouquet that can be presented to God in thanks for using you to bless others. It really is that simple. In this way, you acknowledge the heartfelt gratitude of others without making them feel belittled, and you maintain a spirit of true humility which brings joy to your Heavenly Father.
your name Alex?
Dad: Because my mom chose this name for me when I was born. Just like I chose yours.
Lucas: You named me
Lucas??
Dad: Yes. It’s a beautiful name, right?
Lucas: Yes, but I thought that I had chosen my own name. I thought that when I started talking, I came to you and mommy and said, “I want to be Lucas.”*
*https://www.facebook. com/littlehootsapp
etc. Even if the sentence to hell was for 69 million years, those imprisoned would have reason to be optimistic. But in the Devil’s Hell there will be no relief from pain, no light, no comfort, no hope of ever being reunited with loved ones. Hell is for eternity (Jude 1:7; Matt. 18:8; Matt. 25:46). For Christians, life on earth is the closest thing to hell we will experience. For those who die outside of Christ, earth is the closest thing to heaven they will experience. There are only two paths on which to travel in life (Matt. 7:13-14). One is a path of optimism and hope that leads to eternal happiness with God. The other path leads to eternal pain and torment in the Devil’s Hell. The choice is yours.
BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey
Solutions, and an eight-time No. 1 national best-selling author, and host
of The Ramsey Show
Dear Dave,
I’m 32 and debtfree, except for my house. My grandmother passed away a couple of months ago, and her will has caused problems for my family. I
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
Ithink there are two kinds of people in the world: those who hit the brakes when they see a yellow light and those who hit the gas.
I’m a person who doesn’t slow down for yellow lights.
I think the stock market light is turning yellow, and I’m watching to see what
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY,
REALTOR®, provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area.
Summer is officially here and that means it’s the
Dave Says...You haven’t done anything wrong
was her only relative living in the same town as she got older, so I looked in on her and helped take care of her because she didn’t want to go into a care facility. In her will, she left everything—her house and property, along with about $300,000—to me. Some of my relatives said they deserve something. Two have even accused me of wanting everything she had and turning my grandmother against them. I don’t like what’s happening, but I’m not sure what to do. I never asked her for anything. Jeffrey
investors do about it. Investment fund flows, which measure the movement of cash in and out of investments, can reveal patterns in investor sentiment and general investing trends. As I sifted through the May fund flow activity, I noticed a trend: a drop in investor appetite for risk.
Examining the Morningstar category data in May, large blend equities had the most inflow by a huge margin. Investors poured more money into large blend equities, continuing a trend we’ve seen all year as they moved money out of large growth equities to a historically lower-risk category. An eye-catching stat is that the next four categories
Dear Jeffrey, I hate it when things get ugly between family members, especially at a time when everyone should be pulling together and supporting each other. I’m sorry you’re going through all this. Let me ask you a question. Did you love your grandmother? It sounds to me like you did. A lot! It takes a special person to step in and help the way you did. I think it’s pretty obvious she loved you, too.
When a person dies, they can give their belongings to anyone they choose. It was your grandmother’s stuff, so
and seven of the top 10 categories by inflows are bonds as investors continue the trend toward lowering risk.
Intermediate core, ultrashort, high yield and global bond-USD hedged bonds had big inflows in May, according to LPL.
Where was the money moved from? Mid-cap growth had the most outflows over a few other classes, including healthcare. Of course, it’s no surprise there are outflows from healthcare, with its weak earnings, slowing COVID-19-related sales, and Medicare continuing to decline so many patient reimbursements.
This trend of seeking less risk is a directional change from the end of March when
it was her decision. Period. She could’ve spread it around among you and the rest of your family, but she didn’t do that. She had her reasons, and her final wishes were just that—her final wishes. No one in your family, even you, deserved anything from her. I know this is a hard position for you to be in, Jeffrey. This has probably crossed your mind, so I’ll go ahead and say it. Generally speaking, it’s possible to transfer part of your inheritance to someone else even if it’s not specified in the will or trust. Keep in mind, you might need to seek court approval
equity allocations reached a 15-year high due to soaring stock returns. The drop in risk is elsewhere; Cryptocurrency Funds have had their second-largest outflow year-to-date, and Emerging Markets Bond Funds are seeing consecutive weekly outflows.
Yellow flags have cropped up across the stock market over the past few weeks as the economic data has softened quickly. With the inflation reports continuing to stay high, I can’t see the Fed lowering rates before September. That leaves us with a two-month window for the stocks to prove these high stock prices, which might be difficult without the economy reviving. I wouldn’t be
for such a transfer, depending on the jurisdiction and specific family circumstances.
Or, you can let anyone who has a problem with your grandmother’s decision contest the will. Of course, one possible outcome of that is you might have to spend the money she left fighting them in court. The lady left what she left. There’s no more. It was her house, her property and her money. The others aren’t entitled to what she had just because they’re relatives or they want it.
If you go to church, I’d advise you spend some time talking to your pastor about
surprised if the markets had some volatility before the Fed starts lowering rates. I feel good about how the market will end the year but expect some interesting days with the two-month window before the Fed lowers rates, the usual presidential “October Surprise,” and the actual election.
the situation. You’ve got a lot of folks mad at you right now, and I think you might benefit from a few kind words and an objective point of view. I’d also recommend sitting down with a good financial planner—someone with the heart of a teacher— and talk about to best handle your newfound inheritance. Regardless of your decision, it’s always best to have a plan and be prepared. In the meantime, don’t beat yourself up over this, son. You haven’t done anything wrong. God bless you. —Dave
I’m not putting up a red light, but I am starting to ease from green to yellow. I am slightly overweight large-cap equities over small-cap equities, neutral on fixed income as far as duration, and favor fixed income over cash with the nice current yields. I’ve also downgraded healthcare to underweight for several reasons, including some potential presidential election risk.
I am an aggressive driver. I shoot pretend missiles at passive drivers who brake too soon or drive in the left lane daily. When I see a yellow light, my first instinct is to go through the light, but sadly, I am at the mercy of what the car in front of me decides to do. I’m seeing yellow in the market and many opportunities, but like driving, just how much opportunity will depend on the staying power of other investors. Somehow, I married a cute girl who hits the brakes at yellow lights. I appreciate your prayers about that. Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
Why a vacation home is the ultimate summer upgrade
perfect time to start planning where you want to vacation and unwind this season. If you’re excited about getting away and having some fun in the sun, it might make sense to consider if owning your own vacation home is right for you.
An Ameriprise Financial survey sheds light on why people buy a second, or vacation, home:
• Vacation destination or a place to get away from the stresses of everyday life (81%) – Having a second home to use as
a vacation spot can be a special place where you go to relax and take a break from your daily routines and stressors. It also means you won’t have to worry about finding somewhere to stay when you go there.
Better weather (49%) –Buying in a place where there may be nicer weather can be a great escape, especially if it’s cold or rainy where you usually live. It lets you enjoy sunny days and warm tem-
peratures, even when it’s not so nice back home.
Rental income (41%) –You can rent it out to other people when you’re not using it, which can help you make some extra money.
Primary residence in the future (33%) – You can eventually move into the home full-time during retirement. That means you can enjoy vacations there now and have a getaway ready for your future.
with sharing the vacation home, you can go in on the purchase price together and pool your resources to make it more affordable.
• Having a venue for gatherings with family and friends (25%) – It would be a special spot where you can have parties, regular family trips, and create fun memories.
Ways To Buy Your Vacation Home
And you don’t have to be wealthy to buy a vacation home. Bankrate shares two tips for how to make this dream more achievable for anyone who’s interested: Buy with loved ones or
• Put a savings plan in place: This will require patience and persistence but consider adding a vacation home savings plan to your budget and contributing to it monthly. Finding Your Dream Spot with a Little Help from an Agent
If the idea of basking in the sun at your very own vacation home sounds appealing, you might want to start looking now. Summer’s
when everyone’s trying to buy their slice of paradise, so it’s best to start early. Your first move is to team up with a real estate agent. They know all the ins and outs of the area you want to be in, and which homes you should look at. Plus, they can give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about having a second home and how it can benefit you. The same article from Bankrate says: “Buying real estate in a new area — or even one you’ve vacationed in for many years — requires expert guidance. That makes it a good idea to work with an experienced local lender who specializes in loans for vacation homes and a local real estate professional. Local lenders and Realtors will understand the required rules and specifics for the area you are buying, and a local Realtor will know what properties are available.”
It’s Your Move! Let me help you celebrate your new way to own your dream escape! Heather Tankersley
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY Wellness Design Specialist
The botanical name for this pretty spreading herb with white flowers and intensely sweet leaves (and native to Central America) is Lippia Dulcis.
This plant can start in a 9 x 9 cm pot and be planted 8 cm depth. Aztec Sweet Herb (pictured at top right) is an interesting culminate herb and is a nice trailing herb for containers. It has sweet leaves but the leaves do contain Camphor which can be toxic in large amounts. The leaves of this plant contain sweet compounds but can leave an “aftertaste” which
BY RACHEL CRUZE,
Let’s be honest here: Impulse buying is kind of fun—at least in the moment. You walk into Target for diapers, and before you know it . . . boom. Your cart is full of Chip and Joanna’s amazing throw pillows. Oops.
This is actually really normal. Americans impulsively spend an average of $150 every month. That adds up to an extra $1,800 spent every year and about $108,000 in a lifetime. Ouch! What is an impulse buy?
Herbs from A to Z: Aztec Sweet Herb
some people dislike. The small white flowers protrude above the leaves, and as a “trailing plant,” it looks grand in hanging baskets over the summer months!
The plant heights will range from 10-30 cm; it is considered a “tender” plant that loves sun. The soil should be well-drained and more alkaline. The flower color is white, and the flowering period is from May to August.
Balloon Flower (blue/ white choices)
A hardy perennial with a hardy history in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This flower, however, is often grown just for the pure attractiveness of its flower (pictured at right)!
The botanical name for it is Platycodon Grandifloras. It usually starts out in a 9 x 9 cm pot that is 8 cm deep. It comes with blue flowers and also with white flowers. It has medicinal uses and is
quite easy to grow.
Though a medicinal plant in other countries, in the UK it is mainly grown for beauty in the garden. The unopened petals of the flower strongly resemble a hot air balloon and because it is easy to take care of and maintain, this plant is a great way for children to develop their love of planting and acquiring a green thumb status in the process!
The growth expectancy would be 10-30 cm, it is considered hardy but needs full or mostly full sun, and the soil can be normal to alkaline. Flowers
come in the blue and white version with the flowering period from July to August.
This striking little herb does not get very tall and tends to come up like “clockwork” each year. It likes a soil that doesn’t dry out in summer and will grow in full sun and partial shade, and in very hot summers enjoys shade during the hottest part of the day. It spreads slowly in the ground to form a nice patch or can be grown successfully in a container.
Native to East Asia, the roots of Balloon Flower,
known as Jie Geng, have been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat coughs, sore throats and ailing respiratory systems. The root can be dried and then simmered in water to
make an herbal tea after its second year of growth. The roots are widely used in Korea for culinary dishes such as soups and pickles and in Japan, the young leaves are added to salads.
Impulse buying: What it is and how to stop
An impulse buy is any purchase you make when you weren’t planning to. If it’s not planned for in your budget ahead of time, it’s an impulse buy. Why do we keep impulse buying?
Do you ever wonder how impulse buying gets you?
We impulse buy because of emotions.
When you’re having a rough day, does a little retail therapy sound like the cure?
Maybe it’s not a huge purchase. This time. But making decisions based on pure emotion is a surefire way to let impulse buying take control. And sneaky marketers know this. They’ll play on your emotions with their ads, hoping it’ll hit a nerve that causes you to buy. We impulse buy because of our past. If impulse buying and overspending are problems for you, it could be that you were never taught how to
handle money well.
The way money was handled in the household you grew up in shapes your money mindset. But—don’t just blame your past. Do some digging on how it affects your spending today and make changes!
We impulse buy when we believe it’s a deal.
I totally get this one because I love a good sale. But, you guys, this is a total marketing tactic. When you think you’re getting a deal or “free shipping,” you’re way more likely to pull the trigger on the purchase—and that’s exactly what the marketers want you to do. We impulse buy because we enjoy shopping. Shopping really does make you feel better in the moment. When we shop, the body re-
leases dopamine—that’s right, the brain’s happiness drug. What’s dangerous is when that turns into compulsive shopping or a shopping addiction. How to stop impulse buying
1. Make a budget and stick to it. First things first: You need a budget. If you don’t already have one, download our free budgeting app, EveryDollar. Then, once you make that budget—you have to actually stick to it! If it’s not already budgeted for, don’t spend the money. It’s as simple and as hard as that. You can do this!
2. Give yourself permission to spend. Yep, I just told you to stick to your budget— and you always should. But it’s also important to throw a little fun money in there too!
It might be just a little but give yourself (a line item in the budget with your name on it for your fun spending.
You’ve already budgeted a small portion of spending money for it, so that reward or treat isn’t an impulse buy anymore.
3. Wait a day (or longer!) before you make a purchase. These days it’s so easy to see something we want and click, click, click it into a purchase.
One way to help here is to give yourself a day or so before you buy something. Then ask yourself if you’ll actually use this thing and if you can pay cash for it now.
4. Shop with a plan in mind and cash in hand. Make a list before you shop and head to the ATM to take
out only the cash you’ll need. And then don’t let yourself pull out that debit card or Apple Pay on your phone. Stick to the plan.
5. Don’t shop when you’re emotional. We just talked about this, but it’s worth mentioning again— don’t let your emotions control your spending habits!
6. Do a no-spend challenge. If you haven’t heard of this before, a no-spend challenge is pretty much just like it sounds—you don’t spend any money on any extras. Try this for a month. It’s a great reset for anybody! If you haven’t been paying attention to your spending habits overall, a no-spend challenge is eye-opening. It’s also a simple way to press pause on the impulsive shopping.
Ramsey Solutions, is a national best-selling author, financial expert and host of The Rachel Cruze Show
OZARK WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION AWARDS $7,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS – Ozarks Women’s Association (OWA) recently awarded $7,500 in scholarships to students at Branson High School and Hollister School. Scholarship winners included Raelee Hollier and Anna Zerbe, pictured top with Branson Principal Jack Harris; and Lucy Stillman of Hollister High School, pictured in bottom photo with Anna Hawkins of OWA (photos submitted). OWA is a branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) that was formed in 2004. OWA supports and awards young ladies from the schools in the Tri-Lakes area as they grow from high school into the next level of education. We are a nonprofit organization that is supported by fundraising projects and donations. Join us as we work to make a difference in the lives and advancement of our youth. We meet at the Golden Corral in Branson on the fourth Monday of every month at 11:30 a.m. Call 417-230-6561 for more information.
Hollister announces A/B Honor Roll
Submitted to Branson Globe
Hollister High School has announced students who earned A and B Honor Roll recognition for the fourth quarter of the 2023-2024 school year. Students must have all A’s for placement on the A Honor Roll and no grades lower than a B for placement on the B Honor Roll. Students on the A Honor Roll include:
FRESHMEN – Albert Mileah, Rebecca Barney, Leviticus Bone, Olivia Buttram, Izabella Byrd, Bella Cavins, Harmony Clark, Aidan Clough, Kayla Cook, Ethan Daniels, Alyssa Danielson, Ginger Deall, Cole Escobar, Malia Evans, Saphira Gabbert, Samuel Hebert, Cambree Hodges, Cameron Holland, Raymond Houser, Wyatt Jones, Will Lebsock, Travis Martinez, Issiah Nicholl, Makenah Rogacki, Billy Simpson-Daniel, Ryan Southern, Levi Stillman, Rylan Stone, Chloe Wagner, Addison Williams and Landon Woolstrum.
SOPHOMORES – Emalee Anderson, Allie Archibeque, Hope Bangma, Carter Chaney, Madison Dilday, Eleanor Ford, Ella Green, William Hasler, Kylie Kirk, Molly McAfee, Nathaniel Raine, Mia Tepen, Wesley Tepen, Erianna Tollett and Frida Wang.
JUNIORS – Candace
Benedicto, Aidan Connell, Rachel Cummings, Ella Green, Madison Harrison, Luke Jackson, Lauren Tiefry, Darcy Tran-Nguyen and Andrea Zgonc.
SENIORS – Christopher Beauchamp, Isaac Bebee, Isabella Blackwood, Taylor Brown, Josie Craig, Isabella Dopko, Kylie Escobar, Kelly Garceau, Eric Gregory, Jesse Gross, Jack Jackson, Emily Lehman, Katherine Linn, Carlie Morgaridge, Harli Pease, Winter Plomb, Keegan Ponder, Keelie Purkett, Joshua Reed, Noah Richardson, Kaenan Shofner, Emily Spurling, Lucy Stillman, Kingsley TiefryMorlang, Tyra Weiss, Olivia Williams and Faith Willis. Students on the B Honor Roll include: FRESHMEN – Keyton Cooper, Addison Dempsey, Kira Gallaher, Atticus Gennarelli, Gage Harris, Titan Kepford, Hector Maria, Hailey McCarter, Averi McCoy, Abbey McKee, Ezekiel Norris, Daniel Pasillas, Xerxes Porras, Grant Ray, Ryan Rylott, Baylee Sanders, Bradley Smith, Bennett Stamoulis, Ellie Wade, Riley Wallace and Ariana Woods.
JUNIORS – Abigail Anderson, Skye Banks, Benjamin Doyel, Baylor Evans, Hailey Fiedler, Grace Getman, Kate Heard, Zec Honey, Paige Hurley, Dylan Jones, Isabelle King, Ethan LeBlanc, James Lopancinski, Andrea Martinez, Diego Medina-Lemus, Emily Menter, Jayden Miller, Lucas Nelson, Dakota Oaster, Diya Patel, Tessa Pattison, Gibson Penny, Hannah Ponder, Maya Retasket, Cade Shimon, Tabitha Steinagel, Benjamin Stevens, Chance Teckemeyer, Kevin Teter, Harley Viall, Addison White, Kendra Wilson, Miranda Woolstrum and Randal Wright.
SENIORS – Ty Bertrand, Katlyn Boyce, Trenton Bryant, Anneliese Camp, Johan Charlton, Sofia Davis, Dominic Edmonds, Gracyn Franks, Natalee Gideon-Isnard, Jaidyn Girdley, Kristi Golightly, Anna Greblowski, Serenity Holmes, Mahali Loftis, Hannah McCarter, Zoey Nuss, Lilian Olson, Alanis Ortiz-Montes, Shawn Parter, Chaylen Russell, Maycie Streb and Molly Tellman.
Young Women for America group active at College of the Ozarks
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
At their monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 18, the Taney County Prayer/Action Chapter of Concerned Women for America/Missouri enjoyed hearing from Madelyn Sestak, President of the Young Women for America chapter on the College of the Ozarks campus. YWA is an affiliate of CWA that encourages young women on college campuses across the U.S. to stand
up for conservative, patriotic and faith-based values.
Ms. Sestak said that during the Spring 2024 semester, she felt a strong prompting to focus on support for Israel, including prayer that other people would realize the battle in Israel is also a spiritual battle. She shared the many ways God prepared and equipped her for the semester, including a campus visit and major convocation with cultural theologian Dr. Jim Denison and
former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee. She was also selected for an educational trip to Washington, D.C., where she heard first-hand accounts and learned how other student leaders were responding to the situation; and she met Shirah Miriam Aumann (“Mimi”), whose work with the Antisemitism Education Foundation of the Ozarks brought artist Mary Burkett to the area during Holocaust Awareness Week. In another not-so-coincidental event,
Chaplain Capt. Caleb Dunnam spoke at the College of the Ozarks Prayer Vigil for Israel, sharing about the importance of Christian awareness of Jewish culture; the topic was personally very relevant for him as he deployed to the Middle East shortly after the vigil.
Madelyn will be a junior at C of O this fall. After living with her family in Nixa, Missouri, and then in northwest Arkansas, she felt C of O was the right school for
her. Although initially involved in sports, she decided to step away to focus on helping develop the Young Women of America group.
Madelyn is majoring in business marketing, with minors in social media and speech communications. She has worked at the Keeter Center, where she enjoyed interacting with guests and was inspired by the commitment to excellent service, and is looking forward to working in the public relations of-
fice for the 2024/2025 school year, further honing her communications skills. This summer, she is putting those skills to work as a grassroots coordinator for Brad Hudson’s Missouri Senate campaign. The Fall 2024 semester focus for YWA at C of O will be on sanctity of life. Ms. Sestak hopes to help equip young women on campus to engage knowledgeably in conversation about abortion with their SEE YWA, PAGE 8B
Branson offers an abundance of attractions, with College of the Ozarks® serving as a distinguished gem. Commonly referred to as Hard Work U®, College of the Ozarks is one of only ten working colleges in the United States, where students work for their tuition, allowing them to graduate without debt.
COLLEGE CREAMERY
We invite you to explore our beautiful campus and enjoy the exceptional offerings created by our hardworking students. Delight in world-class dining at The Keeter Center, discover unique student-made products at Edwards Mill & General Store, and witness masterful craftsmanship at The Stained Glass & Candle Shop. Be sure to also treat yourself to premium ice cream at our College Creamery, made with milk from our award-winning dairy.
STAINED GLASS & CANDLE SHOP
Register to vote
The easiest way to register to vote in the state of Missouri is to use the following link: https://www. sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri/register. You can update your name and address, or register to vote for the first time. In many locations, you may also register to vote when you renew your driver’s license. Get a driver’s license
• In Branson and Hollister, go to Branson License Bureau, 1447 Hwy. 248, Branson; phone 417942-8054.
• In Forsyth, go to 210 Shadowrock Dr., Forsyth; phone 417-5463085.
• In Reeds Spring anD Branson West, go to 11016 Hwy. 76, Reeds Spring; phone 417-2728815.
• In Crane, 103 South Street, Crane, 417-7238552. The driver examination office is at 120 N. Commerce St., Crane; phone 417-942-8029.
Register my vehicle
Complete information on Missouri residents’ vehicle registration titling is available at https://dor.mo.gov/ motor-vehicle/titling-registration/
Reach my legislators
Find your legislators by entering a valid Missouri mailing address and using the legislator lookup on this site, https://www.senate. mo.gov/legislookup/ In the Branson TriLakes, we are served by: Senator Josh Hawley (Hawley.senate.gov)
• YWA
Continued from page 6B
legislators in Missouri and nationwide, as it is likely an upcoming Missouri ballot will include some type of
Senator Eric Schmitt (Schmitt.senate.gov)
House Representative for District 7, Eric Burlison (burlison.house.gov). At the state level, we are represented by: Senator Karla Eslinger (senate.mo.gov/senators/ member/33),
• House Representative Brian Seitz, District 156 (brian.seitz@house. mo.gov)
House Representative Travis Smith, District 155 (travis.smith@ house.mo.gov)
• House Representativve Brad Hudson, District 138 (brad.hudson@ house.mo.gov)
Reach my alderman Branson Aldermen may be contacted through the City’s Administration Office, 110 West Maddux Street, Suite 210, Branson, MO 65616 or by telephone at 417-334-3345. Current Branson Aldermen are: Marshall Howden, Ward 1
• Clay Cooper, Ward 1 Glenn Schulz, Ward 2
• Thomas Lucas, Ward 2 Ralph LeBlanc, Ward 3
• Ruth Denham, Ward 3. In Hollister, aldermen are:
• David Honey, Ward 1 (dhoney@hollistermo. gov) Don Jones, Ward 1 (djones@hollistermo. gov) Phil Carman, Ward 2 (pcarman@hollistermo. gov)
• Jeff Long, Ward 2 (jlong@hollistermo.gov) In Forsyth, your aldermen are:
petition initiative, and the issue is ongoing in other states.
In closing her remarks, Ms. Sestak thanked the CWA chapter for their prayers and support, say-
v isitor BRANSON
Scott Novak, Ward 1
• Mark Moore, Ward 1 Dennis Winzenried, Ward 2
• Dustin Krob, Ward 2. Contact the City of Forsyth at 417-546-4763. Aldermen in Rockaway Beach are: Craig Chism, Ward 1 (craig@rockawaybeach-mo.org) Kyle Hinkle, Ward 1 (kyle@rockawaybeach-mo.org)
• Matt Dieckhaus, Ward 2 (matt@rockawaybeach-mo.org)
• Richard Murray, Ward 2 (hwymbc@yahoo.com). In Branson West, your aldermen are:
• Tony Martinez, Ward 1 Dawn Kemp-Wallace, Ward 1
• Penny Lonsway, Ward 2 Mark Boody, Ward 2. Contact the city at 417272-3313.
Kimberling City Aldermen include: Christian Martin, Ward 1
• Virgil Moore, Ward 1
Tim Weyers, Ward 2
• Philip Korem, Ward 2. Contact the city at (417) 739-4903. Register my child for school
• Branson Public Schools: Begin registration by bringing required documentation to building your student will be attending. For grades K-6, check the Attendance Zone for information about attending school building, using this link: https://www. branson.k12.mo.us/parents/enrollment, clicking
ing she is a firm believer in learning from the wisdom of older generations of women. The CWA members, in turn, were inspired by meeting Madelyn and realizing that there is hope
on New Student Enrollment Page, and to Attendance Zones. Please contact your school with questions or additional information at 417-3346541. Main office is at 1756 Bee Creek Road, Branson.
• Hollister R-V School District: Families new to Hollister should visit their building office to set up their parent portal and begin the enrollment process. For help with enrollment, contact your building office. HECC office (PK-1): 417-2434015; HES office (2-5): 417-243-4025; HMS office (6-8): 417-243-4035; HHS office (9-12): 417243-4045.
• Reeds Spring School District: Register at the building your child will attend or fill out the online registration by contacting your child’s school office for more information. Primary School: PS-1st grade, 417-272-3241; Elementary: Gr. 2-4, 417-2721735; Intermediate: Gr. 5-6, 417-272-8250; MS: Gr. 7-8, 417-272-8245; HS: Gr. 9-12, 417-2728171; Gibson Technical Center: 417-272-3271. Recycle Taney County Recycle: Phone 417-546-7226 for hours and what we accept. Email recycle@taneycountymo.gov for information; website: taneycounty.org, or Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/TaneyCountyRecycle/ Get help with necessities
for Gen Z and Gen Alpha, through young women like her stepping up in leadership.
Asked what older women can do to be supportive, Madelyn said the num-
• Salvation Army Branson, 1114 Stanley Boulevard, 417-339-4434.
• Christian Action Ministries (CAM), 417-3341157.
• Elevate Branson, 310 Gretna Rd; website, https://elevatebranson. org; email: Info@ElevateBranson.org. Phone: 417-335-9915. Find/adopt a pet
• Branson Humane Society, 2837 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson. To contact: 417-337-7387; Facebook www.facebook.com/ ShepherdofTheHillsHumaneSociety; or email at sohhs417@gmail.com. Information is on their website, http://www.bransonhumanesociety.com
• Come look at the animals for adoption at Taney County Animal Control, 255 Critter Trail, Hollister. Hours: Mon.-Sat. noon – 4 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays. Phone 417-3320172. Email: tcac255@ gmail.com; website: taneycounty.org.
Find a healthcare provider CoxHealth Center, 890 State Hwy. 248, Branson, 417-335-2299. More information at coxhealth.com
• Mercy Clinic Fami-
ber one thing is prayer. She would also like to see some cooperative events planned, with younger and older women encouraging one another in their shared values.
ly Medicine, 448 State Hwy. 248, Suite 140, Branson, 417-337-9808. More information at www.mercy.net.
• Faith Community Health, 1232 Branson Hills Pkwy, Suite 104, Branson, 417-336-9355; more information at https://faithcommunityhealth.org/ Branson VA Clinic, 5571 Gretna Rd., Branson, 417-243-2300. More information at www. va.gov. Contact the health department Contact the Taney County Health Department at 417-334-4544, visit their website at www.taneycohealth.org, or like their Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest pages.
• Contact the Stone County Health Department at 417-357-6134 in Galena, or 417-272-0050 in Branson West. Visit their website at www.stonecountyhealthdepartment.com
Assistance with unplanned pregnancies
• Options Pregnancy Clinic, 192 Expressway Lane, Branson, 417-3365483. More information at www.optionspregnancyclinic.com. Pregnancy Lifeline, 19621 State Hwy. 413, Branson West, 417272-5211. More information at www.pregnancylifeline.com
Please note: The above providers DO NOT perform or refer for abortions.
Stay updated on activities and planned events by liking and following Ywfora.cofo (Young Women for America College of the Ozarks) on Facebook and Instagram.
Worship Directory
You are encouraged to worship with us!
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.– Hebrews 10:25
Around Town: Here’s what’s going on in the Tri-Lakes
JULY
• 5 Jukebox Winos at Pop’s Smoke Shack with live music on Pop’s patio 5:307:30 p.m. Enjoy delicious smoked meats, homemade sides, sauces and cheesecake at this family owned and operated local business. Family friendly. 17201 Bus. 13, Branson West.
All you care to eat spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, dessert and drink for only a $10 donation. 100 Chiefs Court, Branson.
• 8 The Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, Adventure Reading Hour, for children 7 years and younger, from 10:3011:30 a.m. in the library. All children and adults are welcome to attend for books, games, songs and crafts. Further information at www.kalib.org or by calling the library at 417739-2525.
• 9 Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce: County Candidate Forum/ Monthly Luncheon, 11 a.m. Member lunch price, $15; non-member lunch price, $20. For the forum, please post questions at https://forms.gle/fdiuUrso7e9gtunJA. Lake Taneycomo Elks. Contact forsythareachamber@ gmail.com or 417-5462741 to reserve a spot. You can also reserve a spot at https://www.forsythmissouri.org/event-details/ facc-july-9-luncheon-candidate-forum
• 10 Learning on Wednesday: Looking for jewelry
appraisal? Come meet the experts, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Kimberling Area Library community room. Join Jenny and John Caro of Table Rock Jewelry Appraisals, for informative session about evaluating quality and price of your jewelry. Determine value of your jewelry and identify insurance company requirements to insure possible loss of your jewelry. Coffee and light snacks provided. No pre-registration required. Attendance free for this informal event. www.kalib.org. 10 Christian Women’s Connection (Stonecroft): “Get Inspired” luncheon, 11:30 a.m. Come make new friends and enjoy a delicious lunch in a beautiful setting. Non-denominational. No membership or dues. $17, Call 417-343-1418 by July 8 to reserve. Point Royale Clubhouse, 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson. 12 Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge 2597, Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 12951 U.S. Hwy. 160, Forsyth. Please join our lifesaving mission and schedule an appointment today! We are dangerously low on all blood types. Please help us spread the word and come donate blood. We do take walkins but appointments are always encouraged. The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App on the App Store, Google Play or text BLOODAPP to 90999. Schedule appointments, view your
FRIDAY JULY 5TH: 7pm Mutton Bustin’ 8pm Bull Ride SATURDAY JULY 6TH: 6pm Mutton Bustin’ 7pm Ranch Rodeo
blood type and results of your mini physical, and track your donations.
• 12 Live music with Jukebox Winos at Outback Steak & Oyster Bar; 5-8 p.m. dinner on the covered screened-in patio: steaks, oysters, catfish, pork chops, desserts and more. Family friendly. 1914 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information: www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 12 Taney County Federated Republican Women & Taney County Republican Central Committee present: Meet the Republican Candidates’ Forum. National, State, 7th District and Taney County candidates. 6-7 p.m. meet and greet; 7 p.m. candidates’ forum. Branson Hollister Lions Club, 1015 State Hwy. 76, Branson.
• 13 Lake Taneycomo Elk Lodge 2597: Craft/rummage sale. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Indoor craft/rummage sale to raise funds for our community programs. Vendors welcome. $10 donation per table. Contact Terri Williams, 417230-6200 or terri6536@ gmail.com. Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge 2597 12951 U.S. Hwy. 160, Forsyth.
• 13 Live music with Jukebox Winos at Bear Creek Wine Company & Brewery, 1320 Keithley Road, Walnut Shade. 5-8 p.m. Local wine, craft beer, pizza, sandwiches, desserts and more at this rustic shabby-chic gem nestled in the Ozark hills just 10 minutes north of Branson. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 14 Dueling Needles Designs and Malt and Barrel Brewing Co.: Macrame
Hanging Shelf Workshop. Join us for an evening of creativity and craftsmanship at Malt and Barrel Brewing. Co., 225 Cross Creek Blvd., Ste. G, Branson. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters. From 6-9 p.m. you’ll learn macrame and create your own hanging shelf for adding boho charm to any space. Step-by-step instructions, with take home instructions. All materials provided. Friendly, supportive environment. Your first drink on us. Spaces limited, reserve your spot today. Tickets can be purchased at https://duelingneedlesdesigns.square.site/
• 13 Music on the Lake, FREE concert, 7 p.m. Hosted by Veterans of the Ozarks and sponsored by local neighbors and your favorite businesses. Kimberling City Shopping Center, 11863 Rt. 13, Kimberling City. Rainouts will be made up if possible. Schedule subject to change without notice.
• 15 The Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, Adventure Reading Hour, for children 7 years and younger, from 10:3011:30 a.m. in the library. All children and adults are welcome to attend for books, games, songs and crafts. Further information at www.kalib.org or by calling the library at 417-739-2525.
18 Jukebox Winos live music at Ozark Hills Winery, 601 State Hwy. 165, Branson, from 3-5 p.m. Happy hour wine by the glass, 2 for $10, plus retail specials. Enjoy signature local wine and whiskey tastings. Book your exclusive wine wall experience: Blend and bottle your own custom wine. 417-3341897. For more informa-
tion, jukeboxwinos.com.
• 18-20 Summer reading program at Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., in Kimberling City, from 1:30-3 p.m. for children 3 to 10 years old. Free program. Includes reading, songs, art and snacks to engage children in multimedia learning during the hot summer.
20 Jukebox Winos live music at Boondocks Dive Bar-B-Q, 7-10 p.m. Enjoy ribs, brisket, pulled pork, homemade sides and sauces, cold drinks, pool table. Family friendly. 29002 State Hwy. 39, Shell Knob. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 23 Junior Auxiliary of Taney County: Membership tea. If you are interested in what we do in our organization, join us for an informational membership tea at 5:30 p.m., 200 Industrial Park Drive, Hollister. Our projects include Christmas Assistance, Steam Punk Academy, Santa’s Gift House, Celebrate Reading, Tender Critters and Kindness Effect. For information, to RSVP: www.jatcmo. org, jatcmo@gmail.com, 417-294-2745.
25 Jukebox Winos live music at TAPS on Downing Street, 260 Birdcage Walk, Hollister, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy 24 craft beers and cider on tap plus local wines and Hook & Ladder’s Pizza Truck on site serving up tasty pizza and more in historic downtown Hollister. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 26 Red Cross Blood Drive at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church Parish Center, 202 Vaughn Dr., Branson, from 12 – 5 p.m. Sponsored by Branson Knights of Columbus. Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter OURLADY to schedule an appoint-
ment. Be a force for good: Come, give blood in July for a Fandango Movie ticket by email to see “Twisters” on us. Terms at rcblood.org/Twisters.
• 27 Jukebox Winos live music at Rock Lane Resort & Marina. Enjoy afternoon music 1-4 p.m. at Indian Point’s summer hot spot one mile south of Silver Dollar City – the Tiki Bar at Rock Lane –serving up cold drinks and good eats. Family friendly. Courtesy dock. 611 Rock Lane, Branson. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 27 Branson Dance Club monthly dance. Branson ballroom dancers have a dance once a month at the Branson Community Center, 201 Compton Drive, Branson, from 7-9:30 p.m. Open dance for everyone. $10 admission. Coffee, tea and water are provided; please bring snack or appetizer to share on the food table. Dances include two-step, foxtrot, cha cha, waltz, line dancing, swing and more.
• 27 Music on the Lake, FREE concert, 7 p.m. Hosted by Veterans of the Ozarks and sponsored by local neighbors and your favorite businesses. Kimberling City Shopping Center, 11863 Rt. 13, Kimberling City. Rainouts will be made up if possible. Schedule subject to change without notice.
• 28 Malt & Barrel Brewing Co.: LIVE MUSIC with Jukebox Winos, 3-5 p.m.. Enjoy cozy, eclectic vintage vibes, seven craft beers on tap, local wines, cider and non-alcoholic beverages in family friendly space with artwork, games and books while we play favorite cover songs and original music. Outside food is welcome. 225 Cross Creek Blvd., Suite G, Branson. For more information, www. jukeboxwinos.com
july 5 – july 11 * LATE SHOWS ON FRI & SAT ONLY TANEY COUNT Y FEDERATED REPUBLICAN WOMEN 3RD ANNUAL RANCH RODEO &
INSIDE OUT 2 W 12:15, 3:30, 6:50, 9:00*
DESPICABLE ME 4 IMAX E 1:00, 3:45, 7:15, 9:40*
OZARKS Q 10:00
TORNADO ALLEY Q 12:00
IRELAND Q 11:00, 6:00
BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE R 12:30, 3:45, 7:30, 9:50* A QUIET PLACE: DAY ONE R 12:30, 4:00, 7:30, 9:50* THE BUTTERFLY PEOPLE W 10:00 AM
GUY E 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:40*
UNSUNG HERO W 12:20, 3:00, 5:15, 7:40, 10:00*
Silver Dollar City honors long-time employees June 27 at Riverfront Playhouse
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
Writer
On June 27, Silver Dollar City held its annual service award ceremony to honor employees achieving significant work anniversary milestones, including employees celebrating several decades of employment at the park and related support or administrative positions.
Following opening prayer at the 7:30 a.m. ceremony, Silver Dollar City Fire District Chief
Ted Martin took the mic to speak about everyday heroes, including the many Silver Dollar City employees who know what to say or do to help guests enjoy their day, and who do it with an attitude of serving. A video illustrating that concept in action was accompanied by the song, “Everyday People,” played and sung by park musicians Arbor Season, who provided fitting music for highlights of the ceremony.
Service pins were given for each five-year milestone, and every employee with 20 years and more also received a special gift made by park craftsmen. Those with 20 years received a custom sculpture from Hazel’s Glass; those with 25 years received a framed replica of a themed sign with their name which will be displayed in the park. Thirty-year employees received a handcrafted pottery platter, and each had
the opportunity to share a favorite memory. Musician Greg Bailey of the popular Homestead Pickers said he has been grateful for the opportunities to honor and serve the Lord through his work; Kami Rush said a highlight of her job was helping plan the park’s 50th anniversary celebration and meeting people from the early years; Justin Loftis said each day is an opportunity to help people, love others and encourage oth-
ers to do the same.
For 35 years of service, employees received a handcrafted mantel clock as tributes were read from their co-workers, compliments such as “A great mentor,” or “So welcoming to new teammates.” The 40-season gift was a handcrafted knife from Mountain Outfitters.
One popular employee receiving 45-season recognition was comedian Terry Wayne Sanders, who received a handcrafted
wooden stagecoach replica along with a tribute video and a standing ovation from co-workers, families and friends gathered for the ceremony. Sanders’ multiple characters have inspired and entertained guests from across the U.S. and around the world, and most guests have likely followed his hand-drawn chalk directional arrows to find their way around the park.
Three employees celeSEE EMPLOYEES, PAGE 9C
(Photos in upper left and lower right corners by Cynthia J. Thomas. Remaining photos via Facebook, used with permission)
BY LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer
Howdy there, pardner; you better watch yourself here in these hills!! You will be receiving a new kind of mystery in this action-packed show. You will have a mixture of mystery, gun slingin,’ trick riding and ropin’ all rolled up in one unique murder mystery. This all takes action under the stars in the outdoor theater at Shepherd Of The Hills. You can begin the night with supper and fun with The Old Trail Wranglers in the Playhouse Theatre with the dinner bell ringing at 4:30 p.m., (which I have previously written about), then make your way down to the theater for the Wild West Show. This show is different than all other murder mysteries. It is kid friendly, has audience participation, and is very funny. You will get to see a finalist from the show “America’s Got Talent” doing what he does best. There are several characters and even the Hurley Burley Gang. The kids get to be “Deputized.” Who knows, you might even become a participant or be sitting right next to a suspect. They have real horses, fire, shooting, horse couples dancing, and the stagecoach comes onto the set as well. It is a Wild West Show with a twist of a mystery. You won’t get bored that’s for sure. I was able to ask some of the participants some questions, and so let’s get to those now.
Area Entertainment: Shepherds Wild West Murder Mystery Show
Questions I asked were:
1. What would the older you tell the younger you?
2. Anywhere you haven’t been or visited that you would like to?
3. What funny or memorable event have you had happened?
4. Where are you from and how long have you’ve been in the Branson area?
Bronco Bob (Shannon Thomason):
1. To lean into the Cowboy earlier! I love it and now only wish I had been doing western shows and cowboy slingin’ a lot sooner!
2. It’s hard to pick out just one funny event when you’re in a comedy show. I really enjoy working the audience, especially getting the kids up. They are what makes each show special. You never know how they’re going to react or what they are going to do or say. We are always trying to make that next great funny moment with every guest in every show. Making lasting fun and memories for them and us.
3. I would love to see Ireland, Scotland and England.
4. I am from Rayville, LA., which is known for being the White Gold Capital of the South -meaning white gold is cotton. Ha-Ha!!
My wife and I moved to the Branson area in 2000 and have been having fun and entertaining folks since arriving 24 years ago. Johnny Lonestar (Americas Got Talent finalist)
1. Keep doing what you’re doing, because you aren’t going to college anytime soon.
2. I would like to visit Italy, because I am from New York and what New Yorker doesn’t want to go
to Italy?
3. I am an activities director that is also a cowboy from New York. (Luanna couldn’t resist inserting the old salsa commercial saying, “Get a Rope!).
4. I’ve been in the Branson area for 30 years. Just a little bit about me is that I started roping at the age of 15. Got my first professional job in Las Vegas at the Aladdin Hotel with the show, Country Tonight. I then moved to Branson and was in the Country Tonight Show here for nine years, then I was with the Clay Cooper Show for nine years. I have also worked at the Silver Dollar City and The Hamner Unbelievable Variety Show.
Rider and performer (Kenny Stults)
1. Don’t sweat the small things. Life has a way of working itself out.
2. I would love to see as much of the world and different cultures that I get a chance to see in my lifetime.
3. When I went on a safari in Africa and got some up-close visits by some incredible wildlife.
4. I’m from Galena, MO. I have grown up in the area.
Tricks and Roman rider (Megan Bailey)
1. Not to care what people think about me. (Easier said than done, I know!)
2. I would love to go to the Yellowstone National Park!
3. Oh, I cannot pinpoint just one. Something funny happens every day when you work around young kids.
4. My husband and I are from Greers Ferry, AR. We have lived here for 11 years and loving it!
Tricks and Roman rider (Abby Ingram)
1. Pursue the skills and hob-
bies you’ve always wanted to try, even if they don’t seem possible. You never know when you may use them in the future. Don’t wait to tell people how much their support means to you. They won’t be around forever.
2. I would love to visit Alaska.
3. I remember my first time performing as a trick rider about two years ago. I had never thought that it was something I would ever do in my career, and it was so special to hear the reactions of the children watching. As a child, I wanted to perform after seeing the circus trick riders, and I loved that I have gotten the opportunity to inspire the next generation of performers.
4. I am from Oregon City, OR. Also known as “The End of the Oregon Trail.” I have lived in the Branson area for about three years.
Trixie LaRue (Dana Embree)
1. Boy, if you only knew what I know now!
2. I would like to go to Australia.
3. The “Little Deputies” in the Wild West Show have been memorable to me. I’ve been amazed and encouraged by the brave, tiny audience members who face their fears and help us scare the “bad guys!”
4. I’m from St. Louis, MO, and have lived in Branson for 36 years now.
Santa Fe Slim (Dan Embree)
1. SAVE YOUR MONEY!
2. I would like to go to The British Isles.
3. I’ve had a number of funny and or memorable events in my life. But I’ll share this with you about when I met Willie Nelson. I was working as an extra on a film being
shot in Eureka Springs, AR. We were in a break area between shots when someone came to the door and said, “Hey, Willie Nelson’s tour bus just pulled up!” People began filing out the door while I just sat there reading the newspaper. The last lady going out, turned back at the door, and said, “Don’t you want to meet Willie Nelson?” I replied, “Nah, he wouldn’t go out of his way to meet me.”
So, I continued to read my paper. Pretty soon the lady appeared at the door and said, “Willie Nelson is coming to meet you, smart guy!” And right behind her Willie walked in with his hand extended saying, “How do you do?
I’m Willie Nelson!”
4. I’m originally from Sedalia, MO, but I’ve been in the Branson area for 51 years now.
Flash the Wonder Horse (Tex)
I’m an 8-year-old Frisian Sport horse. My human who raised me is Kenny Stults.
I’m a professional escape artist, and I can open most any gate in my path unless
Kenny takes extra precautions to prevent me from doing so. If I get my gate open, then I go around and open the other gates so my buddies can join me in our freedom!
Ginger, Apollo, Roark, Comanche, Whiskey, and I may have missed one or two. (Horses)
We like to show our skills for our humans. We will carry them through fire, dance for them, let them show off their outstanding athletic trick skills. We love to perform! You want to make sure you get out there and see this action packed, fun show. Dates are Sunday, Monday and Wednesdays now through August 14. Contact information: Shepherd Of The Hills, box office: 5586 W. Hwy. 76 Country Blvd. Phone: 417334-4191. Make sure to look up on all main media outlets.
Shepherds Wild West Murder Mystery Show (Photos by Luanna Fullerton)
BY COWBOY JOHN FULLER-
H
ere at the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Adventure Park, there’s a lady who was loved by many that contributed much to the property. She was a huge fan of “The Shepherd of the Hills” novel. Around here everyone still calls her “Miss Lizzie.” Today I’d like to introduce you to the third owner of the property, Elizabeth P. McDaniel.
A native of Springfield, Miss Lizzie was one of four children and the only daughter of William and
Stone
Memories from the Homestead: The legacy of Miss Lizzie
Emma (Evans) McDaniel. Her brothers were George, William and Horace. Miss Lizzie was born August 31, 1871. Coming from a wealthy family, the McDaniels were shareholders in the Union National Bank of Springfield and remained involved in the banking business for many years.
Active in numerous community and social activities, Miss Lizzie graduated from Springfield’s Central High School and attended college in Marshville, Tennessee.
The McDaniel family home place was in southern Greene County, southeast of Springfield. Known as Clove Hollow, the property was popular as Miss Lizzie hosted plays, church events and operettas. Her amphitheater often hosted community theater events as well.
Becoming involved in numerous other civic activities, Miss Lizzie was remembered for being a board member of
Springfield’s early YMCA, even assisting with the construction of the property.
In October 1926, Lizzie’s brother Horace purchased the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead from William Driver, and in February 1927, Lizzie took over ownership, purchasing the farm for one dollar. A huge fan of “The Shepherd of the Hills” novel, Lizzie made improvements to the property, continued the camping accommodations for the guests, and in her first year as owner, the business saw almost 6,300 visitors in four months.
With great enthusiasm, Miss Lizzie went on a quest to bring back all the furniture and belongings of J.K. and Anna Ross (Old Matt and Aunt Mollie), both whom had passed in 1923. The Ross home in Garber was under new ownership, and Lizzie was able to retrieve the items and bring them back to the cabin, where they remain on
County Museum: ‘Christmas in July,’
appreciation to City of Crane, salute to American Legion Post 413
BY BARBARA BOOTH
The Stone County Historical Genealogical Society Museum will put our travels through Stone County History on hold to feature current items of interest.
It’s “Christmas in July” at the Museum. Stop by and browse our book nook. You will find Stone County History Books I, II and III, along with pictorial books. What a wonderful Christmas gift for a family member to cherish.
The book nook carries books galore! You will find books by local authors on a variety of subjects, as well as pen and ink prints by a local artist, historic post cards, cookbooks, and the
history of Lawrence and Barry counties from the year 1888. Appreciation to the City of Crane!
The Stone County Historical Genealogical Society and Museum Board of Directors and Society members would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the City of Crane for providing a rent free building with utilities for the Stone County Historical Museum. The city has provided the building for seven years! Without this contribution, the county would not have a facility to store and maintain Stone County History and Heritage.
Salute to American Legion Post 413 - District
The Stone County Historical Genealogical Society and Museum is a nonprofit organization. Through donations and fundraising, they were able to purchase (at an excellent price) the historic American Legion building, across from green space and next door to the Museum. This provides the opportunity to expand and offer an event center to the community. Our appreciation to the American Legion and a huge salute to each of you this 4th of July for your service.
Museum hours are Thursday-Friday: 10 a.m. to p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
display today. Lizzie used the famous cabin as her personal residence, living in it for nearly ten years. No one has lived in it since.
In September 1928, the historic post office at Garber was destroyed by fire. This building was constructed by J.K. Ross and his son in the spring of 1907. The only items that survived were a couple of tobacco leaf cutters and the post office safe. These items are also on display in the cabin today.
In the late 1930s, Miss Lizzie constructed a new home on the south side of the Homestead.
With help from Garber neighbor Newt Cox, the home was completed in four years. Today it’s known as Sammy’s Sweets ‘N Treats. The three-story home included several items from her family’s pre-Civil War residence in Springfield. They include the staircase,
the fireplace mantel, the doors and windows.
Miss Lizzie had numerous dreams and wishes for the famous property to keep
TON, a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
the fans interested in coming back for a return visit. She developed a theatrical stage play of “The Shepherd of Elizabeth McDaniel, known to everyone as Miss Lizzie, made great efforts to preserve the famous Old Matt’s Cabin and developed “The Shepherd of the Hills” novel into a stage play production. (Photo submitted)
Music on the Lake season in full swing
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff
Writer
The Music on the Lake concert season, presented on two Saturday evenings monthly from May to September each year by the Veterans of the Ozarks, is well underway for this summer. Don’t worry; there are still some great performances remaining!
Concerts are held at the Kimberling City Plaza Shopping Center, 11863 St. Hwy. 13 in Kimberling City. Featuring local area bands in a variety of music styles, the performances are free to the public and sponsored by area businesses and individuals.
The location is handy to several restaurants, including some who are concert sponsors; and Duckee’s of Kimberling City sets up on site with burgers, hot dogs and drinks, so these concerts make for a fun evening gathering with friends.
During the season, raffles are also held to assist with the Veterans of the Ozarks mission of serving area veterans in need and providing Honor Guard/ Color Guard for military funerals and special events. At the June 29 concert, which featured a great performance by the Kirk Brown Blues Band,
Scott Wilde was presented with a $300 gift certificate to Buffalo River Outfitters for his winning ticket; and raffle tickets are currently available for a remote-controlled cooler, perfect for entertaining friends and kids by driving snacks and drinks around!
Tickets are also available for a beautiful quilt made by Table Rock Quilts of Honor, with the drawing to be held at the last concert of the season.
Remaining concerts this season include the following dates/bands:
• July 13 – Dale Johnston Country Review July 27 – Los Roscoes
(blues)
• August 10 – Carie’s Revenge (classic rock)
• August 24 – Barry Wynn Country
• September 7 – Cover
Charged (classic rock)
• September 21 – The Band Rescue (rock & roll)
Follow the Veterans of the Ozarks on Facebook to stay updated about other upcoming events, including the annual golf tournament; if you’re a veteran looking for fellowship and supportive friends, check out the regular monthly membership meetings held at the Elks Lodge, 37 Beach Blvd. in Kimberling City.
AT LEFT: Scott Wilde won a $300 Buffalo River Outfitters gift certificate at the Veterans of the Ozarks raffle. (Photo by Philip Thomas)
An event with teeth: Celebrate Shark Week at WOW
Submitted to Branson Globe
From July 7 to 14, Wonders of Wildlife will celebrate Shark Week with events, prizes and fun for the whole family! Learn jaw-dropping facts from our team, participate in fin-tastic educational activities, and indulge in special shark
(Photo submitted)
treats and goodies from our gift shop and snack bars. Guests can purchase tickets to events such as:
• Painting with a Splash –a fun opportunity to paint along with an instructor to create their own colorful shark painting
• Cocktail Mixology – a class where attendees learn to create flavorful
cocktails – one shaken and one stirred
• Education Stations – a variety of activities and presentations spread throughout Shark Week to engage curious and creative minds
Out to Sea Shark Dive - the Midwest’s only underwater shark dive! Come face-to-fin with sand tiger sharks, brown sharks and Atlantic goliath groupers. Also, visitors and members who visit WOW during Shark Week will be able to engage in exclusive keeper chats and interactive educational activities! For a full list of events and activities, please visit wondersofwildlife.org/sharkweek.
Blade Aces precision action sports hosts competition in Missouri
Submitted to Branson Globe
Blade Aces, a leading force in the world of knife throwing, proudly announces the exciting “Game of
Throws” knife and tomahawk throwing competition August 23-25 with an 8:30 a.m. daily start, at 245 Tara Court in Forsyth, Mis-
souri. Open to the public, see world champion knife throwers compete live as well as challenge yourself as a newcomer.
Melody Joy Valerious, Thomas Blade Aces coCEO, 12-time world champion and six-time world record holder promises an event that will captivate fans and ignite their passion for knife throwing. “We are excited to bring
our competition to Missouri for the first time and plan to be here for a long time. Whether you throw every day or will be picking up a knife for the first time, join us for three days of knife and axe throwing. It is an incredibly welcoming and educational experience.”
Ron Thomas, co-CEO and former world champion added, “We are pleased to continue to set the stan-
dard for competitive knife throwing and seek to introduce new throwers to the sport.” Entry fees for competitors are $120 for pros and $80 for amateurs. There is free entry and free parking for spectators. For more information, please visit bladeaces.org.
About Blade Aces Blade Aces is an organization with one mission
in mind: To design, create and build the most professional, standardized, and fun precision projectile sports organization in the world. Designed by professional competitors for professional competitors, the Blade Aces organization is a non-political, nonprofit entity that does not shy away from committing to competition from all over the world.
Annual Pickleball Experience coming to Convention Center
Submitted to Branson Globe The Branson Convention Center will be the site of
the Fifth Annual Branson Championship Experience Pickleball Tournament. Open to all pickleball players, the fun gets underway on Friday, July 19, with Men and Women Singles Play. Saturday, July 20, is reserved for Men and Women Doubles, and Mixed Doubles on Sunday, July 21. Hosted by Turkey Creek Brewery in Hollister, who will be on hand serving locally made craft beer samples, the event promises fun for all pickleball players and fans alike. To register for the pickleball tournament, visit www.pickleballbrackets. com.
Branson’s entertainers spend time enjoying local summer attractions
Submitted to Branson Globe
What do Branson’s entertainers do in their free time?
Enjoy Branson attractions, of course! Local lures include lakes, amusement parks, resorts, restaurants, stupendous Ozarks sunsets and stage shows galore.
Most Branson entertainers will tell you their favorite activity is bringing joy to everyone who attends their performances. But when they’re not gracing stages in the city now officially labeled “America’s top live music show destination,” they like to take advantage of the area’s many attractions — and watching their friends perform, too.
With amusement options ranging from golf and mini golf to theme parks, water parks, hiking, kayaking, museums, shopping or just kicking back, choosing can be a challenge.
Banjo player Ellen Haygood and her husband, Michael, like to keep it simple. When she’s not performing with her siblings and parents in the Petersens’ family band and he’s not onstage with his siblings in the Haygoods, she says, “We love hanging out on the lake, catching a show and ending the night with some Andy’s custard.”
When veteran Branson performer Rick McEw-
en isn’t appearing in “The Gambler,” his popular Kenny Rogers tribute show, he fills his time with a long list of activities.
“I enjoy golf, fishing, dancing at Wranglers Honky Tonk, Silver Dollar City, hiking the edge of Table Rock Lake, finding an elevated view of the Ozark sunsets at Chateau on the Lake or Top of the Rock, and trying to enjoy one of the incredible shows that our buddies perform in,” he says.
Let’s unpack some of those references, shall we?
Branson is fortunate to be surrounded by three popular lakes: Table Rock, Taneyco-
mo and Bull Shoals. Water sports enthusiasts will love the wide variety of options they offer, including water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, diving and parasailing, in addition to swimming, fishing and boating (bring your own or rent). Food and lodging options range from picnicking to fine dining and camping to luxury resorts, making them perfect summer destinations.
At Silver Dollar City, Branson’s internationally renowned theme park, visitors can find 1880s-themed thrills galore. The park features one of the world’s fastest wooden roller coasters, a steam train ride, old-time
crafts demonstrations, historical exhibits and even a cave tour, not to mention the performance-filled Summer Celebration festival.
Branson’s theaters are also filled with summer shows. In addition to McEwen’s tribute, visitors can hear musical tributes to Abba and the Beach Boys, as well as “Anthems of Rock,” featuring classics from bands including the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Queen, Bon Jovi, Led Zeppelin and Journey. Elvis fans can hear the King’s greatest hits, along with those of Rod Stewart, Reba McEntire and many other favorites, at the “Legends
in Concert” tribute. Two-steppers and line dancers will love Wranglers, but even non-dancers are welcome to enjoy events like the July 1314 Branson Steel Guitar Showcase, featuring some of the instrument’s finest players. As for Andy’s Frozen Custard, that local institution has been dishing up creamy desserts for over 30 years. With summer hours from 11 a.m. till 11 p.m. — 11:30 p.m. on weekends — it’s the perfect way to end any Branson activity. Who knows … maybe you’ll find yourself standing in line with Ellen Haygood!
Branson Terry Music Award nominees announced at Americana Theatre
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
In an exciting ceremony on Tuesday, nominees for the upcoming Branson Terry Music Awards were announced. Branson vocalist and musician Rick McEwen teamed up with Kelly Smith, a local TV personality, to announce the nominees during the event, held at the Americana Theatre.
Nominees for Comedian of the Year were: Paul May, Baldknobbers and Redneck Comedy Tour (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Jamie Haage, Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall); James Sibley, Pierce Arrow (Pierce Arrow Theatre); Jarrett Dougherty, Down Home Country and Redneck Comedy Tour (Grand Country Music Hall); and Andy Parks, Million Dollar Quartet (Shepherd of the Hills).
Fiddle Player of the Year nominees include: Tina Sibley, The Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Hannah Farnum, Clay Cooper’s Country Express (Clay Cooper Theatre); Wayne Massengale, Melody Hart and The Wranglers Band (Wranglers Honky Tonk); Amy Dutton, The Duttons (Dutton Family Theatre); George Geisser, America’s Top Country Hits (Americana Theatre); and Melody Hart, Melody Hart and The Wranglers Band (Wranglers Honky Tonk).
Band of the Year nominees were: Kathy and the Porch Band (Branson Craft Mall); Nashville Roadhouse Live Band, Nashville Roadhouse Live (Pierce Arrow Theatre); Legends in Concert, Legends in Concert (Pepsi Legends Theatre); Matt Gumm and Company, Matt Gumm and Friends (Clay Cooper Theatre); C.J. Newsom’s Classic Country Band, C.J. Newsom’s Classic Country and Comedy (Americana Theatre); Spectrum, Carpenters Once More (God and Country Theatre).
For Lead Guitar Player of the Year, the nominees include: Matt Henshaw Pierce Arrow (Pierce Arrow Theatre); Mark Boyd, Nashville Roadhouse Live (Pierce Arrow Theatre); Robert Terry, Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall); Kevin Allen Legends in Concert (Pepsi Legends Theatre); and Dino Strunk, Melody Hart and the Wranglers Band (Wranglers Honky Tonk).
Female Vocalist of the Year nominees were: C.J. Newsom, C.J. Newsom’s Classic Country and Comedy (Americana Theatre); Kimberly Barber, Down Home Country (Grand Country Music Hall); Jackie Brown, Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall); Deanna Edwards, Absolutely Country Definitely Gospel (Little Opry Theatre); Sara LaBeau, Comedy Jamboree (Grand Country Music Hall); and Diana Lynn, Carpenters Once More (God and Country Theatre).
Male Vocalist of the Year nominees include: Mike Walker, Lasting Impressions (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Stevie Lee Woods
Nashville Roadhouse Live (Pierce Arrow Theatre); Allen Asbury, Clay Cooper›s Country Express (Clay Cooper Theatre); Doug Gabriel, The Doug Gabriel Show (Reza Live Theatre); Colt Cooper, Hot Rods and High Heels (Clay Cooper Theatre); and Michael Cole, Pierce Arrow Decades (Pierce Arrow Theatre).
Those nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year were: John Lance, The Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Tina Sibley, The Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Jonathan Black Clay Cooper’s Country Express (Clay Cooper Theatre); Jacob Hughes, ReVibe (Hughes Brothers Theatre); and Jessica Dutton, The Duttons (Dutton Family Theatre).
Drummer of the Year nominees include: Robbie Blackwood, Clay Cooper’s Country Express (Clay Cooper Theatre); Josh Gabriel, Doug Gabriel Morning Show (Reza Live Theatre); Garrett Massengale, Melody Hart and the Wranglers Band (Wranglers Honky Tonk); Rob Blackburn, Grand Jubilee (Grand
Country Music Hall); and Irielle McConnell, Pierce Arrow Country (Pierce Arrow Theatre).
Nominees in the category of Little Big Show were: A Garth Tribute (God and Country Theatre); Motown Downtown (Hot Hits Theatre); Strait to Branson - Tim Hadler (God and Country Theatre); Queen of Soul (Hot Hits Theatre); and Todd Oliver and Friends (Little Opry Theatre).
For Keyboard Player of the Year, the nominees were: R.P. Harrell, Clay Cooper’s Country Express (Clay Cooper Theatre); David Brooks, On Fire - The Jerry Lee Lewis Story (The Sun Theatre); Ray Harris, The Hughes Music Show (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Tina Sibley, Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre); and Michael W. Davis, Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall).
Those nominated for Steel Guitar Player of the Year
include: Robby Springfield, Melody Hart and the Wranglers Band (Wranglers Honky Tonk); Kevin Clement, Branson Country USA (Grand Country Music Hall); Greg Moody, Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall); George Geisser, Country Evolution (Hughes Brothers Theatre); and Forrest Herzog, America’s Top Country Hits (Americana Theatre).
In the category of Trib-
ute Show of the Year, those nominated were: Elvis Live -- Jerry Presley (God and Country Theatre), The Man in Black - Shawn Barker (Pepsi Legends Theatre); Legends in Concert (Pepsi Legends Theatre); M.J. the Illusion (Reza Live Theatre); Best of Motown and More (Americana Theatre); and Million Dollar Quartet (Shepherd of the Hills). SEE TERRY AWARDS, PAGE 6C
BY K.D. MICHAELS,
Motel 6 was recently named the Best Budget-Friendly Brand by USA Today readers, as part of the
Motel 6 receives prestigious national honor
USA Today 10Best Readers Choice Awards for 2024.
Motel 6 was lauded as friendly, dependable and affordable for those seeking lodging for business or leisure travel.
“We’re thankful to the readers of 10Best and USA Today for voting us Best Budget-Friendly Brand,” noted July Arrowsmith, President and CEO of G6 Hospitality, the parent company of Motel 6. “Motel 6 is an iconic brand, with a passion for serving the budget-conscious traveler. We keep things simple by giving guests just what they want.”
Locally, a Motel 6 fran-
Bass Player of the Year
nominees were: Dillon Massengale, Melody Hart and the Wranglers Band (Wranglers Honky Tonk); Camby Hensen, Dean Z - The Ultimate Elvis (Clay Cooper Theatre); Larry Allred, Grand Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall); Eric Green, Hughes Music Show (Hughes Brothers Theatre); and Bob Roth, Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre).
Vocal Group of the Year nominees include: The Texas Tenors (Mickey Gilley›s Grand Shanghai Theatre); The
Petersons (Little Opry Theatre); SIX (Pepsi Legend Theatre); New South (Grand Country Music Hall); Delta Tones (Clay Cooper›s Country Express); and Third Power (Clay Cooper’s Country Express). For Vocal Duo of the Year, the nominees are: Brandon and Megan Mabe, The Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Mark and Kathy Pearman (Pickin› Porch); Doug and Cheryl Gabriel, The Doug Gabriel Show (Reza Live Theatre); Luke Menard and Jackie Brown, Grand
Jubilee (Grand Country Music Hall); and Shane Van Camp and Ashley Dawn, The Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre).
Those nominated for Gospel Group of the Year were: The Petersens (Little Opry Theatre); Ozark Gospel (Grand Country Music Hall); Absolutely Country Definitely Gospel (Little Opry Theatre); Hughes Brothers Christmas (Hughes Brothers Theatre); and Southern Gospel Sundays (Americana Theatre).
Nominees for Production Show of the Year were: Re-Vibe (Hughes
chise is located on West Main Street, near Branson’s downtown area. Lori Houle has served as manager of the location for nearly six years.
“When our owners purchased this property, it was Good Shepherd Inn and was largely an extended-stay motel,” Houle explained. “We worked hard to get things cleaned up and remodeled. We were even honored to receive the Chamber of Commerce’s Beautification Award. We then joined the Motel 6 franchise. I’m so proud of what we have accomplished here, especially based on where we started. We have many repeat guests
now who stay with us every time they come to Branson. They know we offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.”
Houle continued, “I am so proud of our team for keeping our rooms clean and providing excellent customer service. They work hard, do a great job, and they take pride in their work and our Motel 6.”
Jenn, one of the Motel 6 ‘Clean Team’ said, “We have some amazing guests, and I enjoy getting to know them. I also enjoy knowing that they will have a great stay in the clean room that we provide for each guest.”
Toni, another ‘Clean
Team’ member added, “At Motel 6, we are like family. The guests are like family to us, too. We take pride in offering them clean rooms and friendly service.”
Said Houle, “Since 1962, Motel 6 has been known as a place to find a clean and comfortable room at an affordable price. We are pleased that our guests know this. We encourage them to spread the word about our property and tell their friends and family to stay with us the next time they visit Branson.”
Motel 6 is located at 1023 West Main Street, across from Godfather’s Pizza in Branson.
Honor America kicked off holiday
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A favorite holiday tradition, Honor America, was held this past weekend. The 35th Honor America event is the unofficial kick-off of the Independence Day week in the Branson area. This year, Honor America, previously held on Sunday evening,
Brothers Theatre); Reza - Edge of Illusion (Reza Live Theatre); M.J. The Illusion (Reza Live Theatre); Rick ThomasMagic of Dreams (Mickey Gilley’s Grand Shanghai Theatre); Acrobats of Shanghai (Mickey Gilley’s Grand Shanghai Theatre); and Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety Show (Hamners Unbelievable Variety Theatre).
Morning Show of the Year nominees include: Beach Boys - California Dreamin’ (Hamner›s Unbelievable Variety Theatre); Redneck Comedy Tour (Redneck Camo Bus); Country Evolution with Dalena
was moved to Saturday. The change in days did not hinder attendance as many flocked to the College of the Ozarks campus to enjoy food, fun and fireworks. The evening included a variety of children’s activities. A Missouri Army National Guard Helicopter was also on display in the children’s area. Live music was enjoyed by all, with a special patriotic program featuring the Hard Work U Concert Band performing prior to and during the fireworks display, which was a perfect end to the Fourth of July celebration.
Ditto (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Golden Sounds of the Platters (Hot Hits Theatre); and Down Home Country (Grand Country Music Hall).
In the category of Matinee Show of the Year, the nominees were: #1 Hits of the 60’s (Clay Cooper Theatre); Hot Rods and High Heels (Clay Cooper Theatre); Mike Walker - Conway Remembered (Hughes Brothers Theatre); Elvis - Story of a King (Americana Theatre); New Jersey Nights (Kings Castle Theatre) and Baldknobbers Vintage (Hughes Brothers Theatre).
For Show of the Year, the
nominees were: Matt Gumm and Company (Clay Cooper Theatre); Clay Cooper’s Country Express (Clay Cooper Theatre); Hughes Music Show (Hughes Brothers Theatre) ; The Duttons (The Dutton Theatre); The Doug Gabriel Show (Reza Live Theatre); and Reza - Edge of Illusion (Reza Live Theatre). Lastly, nominees for Entertainer of the Year include: Dean Z -- The Ultimate Elvis (Clay Cooper Theatre); The Haygoods (Clay Cooper Theatre); SIX - An Orchestra of Voices (Pepsi Legends Theatre); The Duttons (The Duttons Theatre); The Baldknobbers (Hughes Brothers Theatre); and Clay Cooper (Clay Cooper Theatre). The prestigious Branson Terry Music Awards are set for September 29 at the Hughes Brothers Theatre. For tickets call All Access Branson at 417-332-2121.
• TERRY AWARDS
Toni and Jenn, two members of the Motel 6 “Clean Team” take pride in their work at the Branson franchise. (Photo by K.D. Michaels)
Staff Writer
A motel chain with a local franchise received a prestigious honor.
Honor America brings families and friends together for Fourth of July fun. (via Facebook)
High Profile Cannabis Dispensary celebrates grand opening
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson welcomes a new dispensary.
The High Profile Cannabis Dispensary celebrated its grand opening last week with music, fun and lots of
great deals. Located on Green Mountain Drive, in the former location of Jurassic Land, High Profile is conveniently located near many Branson theaters, attractions and lodging es-
tablishments, and offers a wide variety of products.
“At High Profile of Branson, we cater to both seasoned cannabis enthusiasts and newcomers alike with our extensive menu featuring premium flower, edibles, concentrates, pre-rolls and more,” says their website. “”Our easily accessible location and ample parking ensure a hassle-free experience.”
The staff and management at High Profile are dedicated to providing the best selection and service in the cannabis industry.
According to their website, “Our knowledgeable and friendly budtenders are here to help you find the perfect products to suit your needs, whether for relaxation, recreation or wellness. As long-time
cannabis insiders, we pride ourselves on curating and selling the highest quality cannabis products to elevate your experience.”
High Profile offers a rewards program, as well as Neighborhood deals for High Rollers, the Service Industry, Med Patients, Veterans, Students (21plus) and more.
High Profile Branson is open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. High Profile is located at 3125 Green Mountain Drive in Branson.
For more information, visit their website, highprofilecannabis.com, or follow them on social media, and be sure to visit High Profile Cannabis in Branson where high vibes and premium products meet.
Coffee Creations to host fundraiser July 13
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Coffee Creations will be holding a fun event to raise awareness of, and funds for, their unique nonprofit.
A parking lot party and car wash is set for July 13 and will feature fun, games, food and more. Those in attendance will enjoy yard games. Food and beverages will be available for a donation. A car wash will also take place. All proceeds will benefit Coffee Creations.
Said a spokesperson for Coffee Creations, “Some of our workers are young, some are older. Some have disabilities. Some do not. Each are special in their own way, including several with unique challenges, based on the disabilities they may have. We incorporate all of the gifts of the
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
people who work for us to produce our ‘special blends made by special hands’.”
Coffee Creations is located at 433 Animal Safari Road, Branson. The parking lot party and car wash are set for Saturday, July 13, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
– Also known as the Fourth of July, Independence Day celebrates the Declaration of Independence, marking the day -- July 4, 1776 -- that the Declaration was ratified by the Second Continental Congress, thereby establishing the United States of America. Prior to that, the United States was a group of colonies owned by Great Britain. Nearly one year later, June 14, 1777, the stars and stripes were adopted as the official flag of the United States of America.
federal holiday, celebrated by
for
work.
Sandpiper Landing Inn awarded Backing Small Business Enhancement Grant from American Express, Main Street America
Submitted to Branson Globe
On June 25, American Express and Main Street America announced the grant recipients for the Backing Small Businesses Grant Program.
Sandpiper Landing Inn, based in Branson, was among the winners.
Deana Acton, one of the owners of Sandpiper Landing Inn, praised the Small Business Enhancement Grant through American Express and Main Street America for providing this
funding opportunity to small businesses. We are excited to have been selected as a recipient and will utilize the grant for ongoing room renovations with materials purchased from a locally owned small business, ShoMe Flooring. The Actons are celebrating their 50th anniversary at Sandpiper Landing Inn this year and look forward to continuing to serve our visitors in the historic Downtown Branson area. American Express and
Main Street America today announced the 500 small business owners who have been awarded $10,000 through the Backing Small Businesses grant program. The program’s 2024 grant recipients represent U.S. small businesses across all 50 states, plus D.C. and Puerto Rico. Later this year, grantees will have the opportunity to apply for an additional $30,000 enhancement grant that will be awarded to 25 small businesses.
Since launching in 2021, Backing Small Businesses has provided over $9 million in grants to 1,180 small business owners nationwide. American Express and Main Street America initially created the grant program to help economically vulnerable small business owners recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and grow their businesses. This program is part of American Express’ “Backing Small” initiative to provide financial support
and resources to small business owners experiencing economic hardships. Other Backing Small grant programs include Backing Historic Small Restaurants and Backing International Small Restaurants. Backing Small is an extension of American Express’ longstanding commitment to support small independent businesses globally, including through its Shop Small movement and Small Business Saturday campaign, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.
Meet the most recent Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Recipients: https:// mainstreet.org/the-latest/ news/500-small-businessowners-receive-10-000grants-through-backingsmall-businesses-program To learn more about the Backing Small Businesses grant program and learn about the grantees, go to https://mainstreet.org/ about/partner-collaborations/backing-small-businesses .
Today, July 4 is a
picnics, fireworks, and fun—and
many, a day off
(TOP: TRL Fireburst, Kimberling City.
Photo by Rob Doherty. RIGHT: The flag. Photo by K.D. Michaels)
High Profile Cannabis is now open. (Photo from highprofilecannabis.com)
Mexican Fruit Cups
BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, The Rogue Chef Time: 20 minutes
wise if at all possible, to let you cut spears. Remove the central core and cut off the skin. Chop away any remaining spikey bits on the outside then cut the chunk of pineapple into spears.
2. Cut the papaya lengthwise and remove the seeds and skin. Slice into spears.
3. Cut the mango lengthwise. Remove one ‘cheek’ of the mango, score into the flesh to make long slices then cut
1. Rinse chicken pieces and pat dry with paper towels. 2. Combine flour, cayenne pepper, paprika and salt in large bowl or place in plastic food storage bag. 3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
4. Fill frying pan halfway with vegetable oil; get the oil hot.
5. Put eggs into a bowl and whip/whisk eggs well.
6. Dip chicken pieces into egg mixture, then into flour mixture.
7. Cook chicken in vegetable oil until golden brown.
8. Remove chicken from frying pan, and place on paper towel to remove excess oil.
9. Place chicken on cookie sheet coated with cooking spray or covered with parchment paper.
10. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
around by the skin to remove the skin and release the slices.
4. Cut the watermelon into spears of similar width to other fruits. Cut off the skin so you only have the red flesh.
5. Cut the jicama lengthwise and remove the skin. The outer skin part can be a little stringy and taste bitter. Squeeze some lime directly on the jicama to help avoid discoloration.
6. Place the spears of fruit
upright in plastic cups or glasses. Make sure you have a good mix of fruit in each glass. Usually 2-3 spears of each fruit will do.
7. Cut small wedges of lime to garnish the cups and sprinkle some tajin and chamoy on top GO ROGUE by adding apple, cantaloupe, or coconut spears. Want Chef Jeff to make these delicious fruit cups for you? Contact him at www. TheRogueChefBranson.com .
MJ The Illusion – Reliving the King of Pop, Michael Jackson
Courtesy Reza Live Theatre
MJ The Illusion is a one-of-a-kind concert experience that will take you on a journey through the music and performances of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Through this experience, you’ll be immersed in the magic of re-living Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour. Michael Knight as MJ is the ultimate concert experience for all Michael Jackson fans! With incomparable live vocals, Michael Knight and the MJ Illusion team, made up of world-class dancers and musicians, will make you feel like
you’re seeing the King of Pop live in concert! Every aspect of this concert experience—the lights, authentic costumes, music and choreography, will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Michael Knight, growing up as a Michael Jackson fan, has invested hours studying all aspects of Michael Jackson and his touring production for MJ The Illusion. He has trained with Travis Payne and Stacey Walker from Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour and This Is It! Team, and with vocal training by Seth Riggs, Michael Jackson’s long-
Hot topic: Warmer climate means spicier food?
Source: bigthink.com
Is the food in tropical countries spicier than in cooler climates? That’s the topic of an article published in Nature in 2021. They ex-
amined more than 33,000 recipes from 70 national and regional cuisines to test the hypothesis that spicy food in hot countries is an adaptation to the increased risk of foodborne diseases. While they couldn’t prove
time vocal coach. MJ The Illusion—Reliving the King of Pop, is a Michael Jackson concert experience, brand new for Branson in 2024! Shows are held at Reza Live Theatre, 645 State Highway 165, Branson. Join us for MJ’s late-night concert experience this month only—every Thursday and Saturday night in July at 10:30 p.m. for the $20 special ticket offer. Readers will receive the $20 ticket offer with promo code MJNIGHTS, for shows every Thursday and Saturday at 10:30 p.m.
the hypothesis, the correlation between heat and spice does seem to exist: Countries and regions with a higher mean annual temperature tend to use more spices per recipe.
Some of the world’s
in July only.
To purchase tickets by phone, call the Reza Live Theatre box office at 417404-3434, mention promo code MJNIGHTS; or visit the website: rezalivetheatre.com and use promo code MJNIGHTS. Get ready to experience the magic! This is not your ordinary Branson show; it’s a Michael Jackson ultimate nightlife concert experience—MJ The Illusion—Reliving the King of Pop.
(All photos courtesy Reza Live Theatre)
spiciest food comes from countries with the hottest climates: Indonesia and Thailand, the Caribbean and Kenya, and several Indian states, including Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat. But these regions are all outdone by Ethiopia. If you’d like to see how spicy Ethiopian cuisine can be, try a bite of doro wat, a slow-cooked chicken stew a reviewer called “Very spicy. Super spicy. Like I-don’t-know-how-Ethiopians-have-any-taste-budsleft spicy.”
On the other end of the spectrum, cuisines of the East Asian mainland show a remarkable consistency in spice use — between two and four spice ingredients per recipe — and this whether they have a relatively cold climate (like the Chinese provinces of Xinjiang or Shanxi) or a hotter one (such as the Yue and Hong Kong cuisines from southern China).
Europe, as you might have guessed, is mostly spiceless with the exception of Poland, Italy and Portugal which tend to be warmer and spicier.
Let’s take a look at our own continent. What direction would you go for a hit of spice? The country of Mexico, and U.S. states New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana are all known for heat and layers of spice that in some concentrations could take the finish off a Buick. By contrast, the Northeast and Upper Midwest have the reputation for a gentler spice palate, likely because of the German and Scandinavian cultural backgrounds of the inhabitants. But once again, warmer region = spicier foods.
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
Ihope to have my Big Piney Museum and Ozark Interpretive Center finished and open by this fall. One of the contents is a pool table that was made in the early 1920s, dubbed an A.E. Schmidt Victory Table. It was sent to the main street pool hall in Houston, Missouri, about 1922. My dad and grandfather bought the pool hall in 1957 when I was 10. From then until 1964, I worked there after school and at various times during the summer.
Sometime in the 1970s, I guess, the three snooker tables and two pool tables were sold. I found one of
• MEMORIES
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the Hills” that was popular for quite some time. Using the cabin as her stage and backdrop, Lizzie used local actors to portray the book
• EMPLOYEES
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brated 50 years with Silver Dollar City this year. Butch Gregory and Larry Sledge are members of Horse Creek Band, and Joleen Holt works in the costume shop helping create the out-
Outdoors with Larry Dablemont: The Big Piney Pool Hall rules
each of them in a small town Ozark restaurant about 20 years ago and I bought them both. They are set up in my home now, waiting for the completion of the museum. It is nearing completion now, and we have a big fireplace on one wall. Out in front of that fireplace we will have that 1920 antique pool table. There I will create a 1920s through 1950s pool hall environment with tables for checkers, cards and dominoes, a coffee pot, old time soda pop machine and peanut machine. There will be no charge for the games or coffee, just a can nearby for donations.
In Dad and Grandpa McNew’s pool hall, there were lots of signs telling players not to sit on pool tables, not to set drinks on them, no gambling, no masse shots, etc. The only thing different from the pool hall of my boyhood will be the lack of spittoons. No tobacco of any kind will be allowed in my nature center-museum. I have some memorabilia from that old pool hall
characters. Her ultimate goal was to build a large outdoor amphitheater down over the north hillside behind her new home. That dream became a reality in August 1960 when the Trimble family opened
fits seen around the theme park. Each received a lantern symbolizing Marvel Cave, and dogwood trees will be planted in their honor in the park behind the Wilderness Church. Sledge and Gregory each were given a custom gold
where all the men in Houston seemed to gather a few times a week; a big picture of ducks that was there in 1958 will be on my museum wall and an old deer head and the handles of the front door of that pool hall from the fifties. If I can find a straggly looking fish mount that looks 60 years old, I might stick it up over the ‘farr-place.’
But there were signs there back then, like “no gamblin’” “no cussin’’ and “no alcohol.” I will have to make new ones. How do these sound? First of all, we’ll post house rules about three kinds of normal pool games that can be played. Nine-ball not allowed.
Then—
1. No argurin’ about politics or religion!
2. No gamblin’ without written permission!
3. No fish stories when owner is here! (His family is trying to stop him from lyin.’)
4. Coffee is free, except for first and last cup, which are 25 cents each! Please
the outdoor theater. It’s been going ever since.
Unfortunately, Miss Lizzie passed away on February 24, 1946 at the age of seventy-five. When new owners Bruce and Mary Trimble
record plaque as a service gift. In a video tribute, many people referred to their downhome friendliness, including Jack Herschend, who shared, “I enjoy watching them engage with their audiences; the people love them so much.”
Joleen Holt, honored for
clean up any spilt coffee as no one else will do it!
5. In winter, card players and pool players are expected to keep ‘farr-place’ filled with wood.
6. Restroom in back corner, but if you just need to pee, go out into woods thru back door!
7. Don’t sit on table and don’t sit nothin’ else on table
8. Do not flirt with or grab ladies up front (up front in museum that is), unless you know in advance they don’t mind!
9. For each pool game you play, loser puts a quarter in donation box, or more if you want the good Lord to smile upon you!
10. Treat everyone here like your brother, unless you have had trouble getting along with your brother!
11. Remember that this is a day the Lord has made. Rejoice and be glad about it and don’t mess it up by cussin’ ‘til you get outside!
12. Keep table covered when not in use, put cue
purchased the property, they went through much of Lizzie’s personal things and in her papers discovered her notes for future development of the farm. Many of those plans became reality in the 38
50 years serving in the costume shop, was escorted on stage by Elvis Presley—or at least a serious look-alike— to receive a custom picture quilt made by her co-workers. “You know how much the costumes matter for the guest experience,” CEO
sticks in rack, and put the balls in pockets (pool table pockets, not YOUR pockets)!
Last but most important:
13. If you do not want your wife to know you are here, should she call, notify us in advance. When I was working as a kid in the pool hall we owned, Vernon Cantrell’s wife would call and want to know if he was there. Why she called, I don’t know, because Vernon always was in there at such times, and he had told me to tell her he wasn’t. What she called me at such
years that the Trimble family operated the farm.
times wasn’t near as bad as what she called Vernon. When I get the place finished, come by and play a game of pool or checkers and help us keep the farr goin.’
P.S. The Big Piney River Nature Center and Museum will be free to all who stop by. I could sure use some donations from rich people to pay some of the cost of it. You can see what we have done so far on the east side of Highway 63 a mile south of Houston, Mo. Help would be appreciated.
Miss Lizzie will certainly be long remembered for her energy and enthusiasm. Many of the Shepherd of the Hills guests today continue to marvel at her wonderful contributions not only to the property, but to the area in general.
Brad Thomas said in presenting Holt’s award, “and I appreciate how much you genuinely care.”
Miss Lizzie was laid to rest in Springfield’s Maple Park Cemetery with her family.
The entire ceremony, including the number of employees who have worked for many years, was a testament to the faith and values that have made Silver Dollar City a popular family destination. The Globe staff wish to join in congratulating these long-time employees and thanking them for their part in making the Ozarks a wonderful place to live and visit.
Larry Dablemont: Proprieter and janitor (Photo submitted)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
a. “Notice of Public Hearing on July 9 at 5:50 p.m. at the Village of Indian Point office located at 957 Indian Point Road. 41 Hazel Lane is requesting a Zone Map Amendment from Residential (R-1) to Commercial (C-2) Zoning.”
b. “Notice of Public Hearing on July 9 at 5:45 p.m. at the Village of Indian Point office located at 957 Indian Point Road. 806 Jakes Creek Trail is requesting a Zone Map Amendment from Residential (R-1) to Commercial (C-2).”
c. The Village of Indian Point Planning and Zoning Commission will consider an application from Max White for the preliminary plat of White Wing Lodge Condominium Plat. The proposed development is located at 982 Indian Point Road. Public commend will be accepted at a meeting held on July, 9 at 5:40 p.m. at the Village Office located at 957 Indian Point Road.
GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT GROUP: A new class for Grief Share will begin Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, at the Branson UMC. This is open to people from our community, surrounding areas and our own church family at BUMC. We welcome both new and returning participants. Gather at 1 p.m. for “social time” and class will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. For questions call Peggy at 641-919-1533. All are welcome!
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCATION SUPPORT GROUP meets at the Branson-Hollister Senior Center, 201 Compton Dr., Branson, the last Wednesday of every month from 1:30-3 p.m. For more information, call Mark Applegate at 417-955-2513 or email mark.applegate@ senioragemo.org.
IF YOU ARE A MILITARY VETERAN in need of a place to live, please call us and we’ll try to meet your needs. GUMI CAMP USA 417-559-3892
VETERANS & MILITARY COALITION OF THE OZARKS is an all-volunteer organization of veterans serving veterans. Contact us if you feel that you, as a veteran or veteran family, may not be receiving the benefits you deserve. Go to VMCO1.org and click on CONTACT at the top of the home page. VMCO meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month (no meeting in July or November) at the Golden Corral in Branson with 11:15 a.m. (optional) lunch buffet and 12-1 p.m. meeting.
CELEBRATE RECOV-
ERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits, and hangups. We meet every Monday night at 6:30 PM at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information call 417–3202055 See you there!
AMERICAN LEGION POST #220 would love to invite all of our former and current U.S. military friends to join us Monday mornings, 9 a.m., for coffee and pastries, with the exception of the second Monday of the month and national holidays. Come join us at M. Graham Clark Downtown Airport, 491 Blue Sky Lane, Hollister. Monthly business meeting is the 2nd Monday of the month 6 p.m. at Denny’s, 2335 West 76 County Blvd., Branson. We look forward to meeting you! HOOAH!
IF MY PEOPLE, WHICH ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
SERVICES for residential, commercial. New construction and resorts. Serving the Tri-Lakes Area. Contact Tina Beth at 417-824-3092.
DEADLINE FOR FRIDAY’S PAPER: Wednesdays @ 10 a.m.
GET YOUR ALWAYS-FREE BRANSON GLOBE DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX! Go to www.bransonglobe.com
ACE HOME IMPROVEMENT: Heating and air, HVAC service and repair, doors, windows, decks, fences, pressure washing, interior and exterior painting, siding, roofing, flooring, tile and drywall. Handyman work! Call Ryan: 417-335-1347.
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-699-1635
GARAGE SALE July 4, 5 and 6, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. 309 Fall Creek Dr. Branson. Garden and work tools, plus size swimsuits and misc.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT EMPLOYEE? Place an ad in the Globe, and fill that position FAST! An ad just like this one costs just $16.50/week!
FOR LEASE: JUST REMODELED, 3-bedroom, 1-bath home, 145 Greenbriar Lane, Hollister. Has fenced in back yard, and 1-car attached garage, laminate flooring. No smokers. $1,200 P/M. Background app. fee $65. Call Carolyn 417-3370398. PLEASE LEAVE MESSAGE.
FOR LEASE Newly remodeled, 3 bedroom 2 bath home, 190 Evans St., Hollister. Has large fenced-in backyard, laminate flooring, and custom window blinds. No smokers. $1,375 per month. Background app. fee: $65. Call Carolyn @ 417-337-0398. Please LEAVE MESSAGE. I will call you back.
ONE AND TWO-BEDROOM HOMES for rent. W/D provided. Quiet and peaceful in 45-plus community. Low deposit. Discounts for seniors. Call 417-337-3285. ROOMS
WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM RENTAL: Family friendly. Deposit and rule agreement required. Cable/ WiFi, fridge and micro included. $189/week. Colonial Mountain Inn, Branson West 417-272-8414.
SHO-ME CLEAN & SHO-ME FLOORING: Looking for a motivated person for in and outside sales. Hourly + performance-based incentives available. Inquire by calling 417-332-7849.
GUMI CAMP, a healing retreat for American Veterans, is in need of Welcome CTR personnel. Willing to trade time for primitive trailer, living on site. No rent, electric, etc. Please call Tim Hadler at 417-559-3892.
LOOKING FOR A NANNY DRIVER. Assistance needed picking up my son from Hollister Middle School every school day and bringing him home. It’s a 10-minute drive. $150 a month. Call and leave voice mail at 417-527-5719.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT full or part time employee? Place an ad in the Branson Globe, and fill that position FAST! An ad just like this one costs just $17.75/ week!
Add a little color to your advertising, and watch readers take notice! Run an ad like this one for $25/wk. YOUR
HOME TO SELL OR ROOM TO RENT? Let the Globe help you get the word out. Reach thousands of readers each week with an ad just like this for only $17.75!
1865 Secret Service begins operating under the Treasury Department
1935 President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs U.S. National Labor Relations Act, effective the next day
1937 Spam, the luncheon meat, is first introduced into the market by the Hormel Foods Corporation
• 1954 B-52A bomber makes it maiden flight
• 1966 NASA launches Saturn IB rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida
• 1966 NYC Transit Authority raises basic bus and subway fare from 15 cents to 20 cents
• 1986 Nancy Reagan cuts a red, white and blue ribbon to reopen Statue of Liberty after refurbishment
1994 Amazon.com founded in Bellevue, Washington, by Jeff Bezos
Annoying!
2003 SARS is declared “contained” by the WHO after affecting 26 countries and resulting in 774 deaths
• 2006 Emergency United Nations Security Council meeting at the U.N. in New York City because of North Korean missile tests that day
2009 Wimbledon Men’s
Tennis: Roger Federer beats Andy Roddick of the U.S. 5-7, 7-6, 7-6, 3-6, 1614 for a record 15th Grand Slam singles title
2016 FBI releases report stating Hillary Clinton was “extremely careless” handling classified emails but doesn’t recommend prosecution
