Local water skier wins at state tournament
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Table Rock Lake is home to one of Missouri’s top water skiers! On July 12, John Appleby of Indian Point captured first place in the Men’s 8 Division at the Missouri Waterski Federation Tournament, held at Lake Paragon in Colombia, Missouri.
Appleby and his wife, Debra, who also skis, have been around Table Rock most of their lives, having grown up in families who visited and eventually purchased property in the area. John began slalom ski competition in 1989, and currently competes in the Men’s 8 division for ages 70-74. The divisional win made Appleby eligible for regional competition, hosted at Mystic Lake near Wichita, Kansas; he did not enter due to family schedule, but will continue to be active in the Federation.
In addition to skiing local slalom courses on Table Rock, Appleby teaches skiing to family and friends. He recently installed a ski bench for students to sign at his dock space on Indian Point, where the Applebys keep their Nautique, widely considered to be one of the best boat options for skiers. “It’s really designed to give a great pull,” stated Appleby. See more photos and learn more about competition skiing by visiting the Missouri Waterski Federation page on Facebook.
upper Lake Taneycomo are paying a Trout Fishing Permit fee of $24 this year, whether they are residents or not. If the proposed MDC rates for nonresidents go into effect, they will be paying $80 after January 1, 2026. (Photo by Gary J. Groman)
Missouri considering huge increase for nonresident trout fishing permit
BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is considering changes to its fishing permit prices for 2026. They are:
• Resident Fishing Permits would go from $13 to $14.
• Nonresident Annual Fishing Permits would increase from $53.50 to $57.
• Nonresident Daily Fish-
ing Permits would stay at $9.
• Resident Trout Permits for resident anglers aged 16 or older would remain at $12.
• Youth Trout Permits (age 15 or younger) would also stay at $6.
• A new “Nonresident Trout Permit” (NRTP) for nonresident anglers aged 16 or older at $40. While most increases are small, one proposal has
caused a lot of concern: the new $40 permit for nonresident trout anglers could affect one of Branson’s main outdoor “attractions,” the spectacular, even “world class,” trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo. It’s a new permit, the “Nonresident Trout Permit,” which will raise the current $12.00 Trout Permit cost for both residents and nonresidents to $40.00 for nonresidents, a 233.33 %
PAGE 8A
BY LINDA PAGE, Special to the Branson Globe
Mr. Ron Blackwood, age 84, of Lorena, TX, passed away on June 26, 2025. He was born on September 5, 1940, in Shenandoah, IA, the son of R. W. and Elaine Blackwood and raised in Memphis, TN. Ron is survived by his wife Shelley Layne Blackwood, brother and sister-in-law R. W. and Donna Blackwood, eight children and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Faith and Wisdom Church located at 3950 Green Mountain Dr., Branson, MO.
Ron was a legend in gospel and country music and was a second generation of the famous Blackwood Brothers Quartet. His father, the late R. W. Blackwood, was a founding member of the quartet. Ron was known not only for his singing ability, but for his talent in management, promotion and concert-booking. His accomplishments and accolades are too numerous to list, but he was a colorful, energetic, encouraging and generous man who left his mark on the world.
Ron’s formal education included Castle Heights Military Academy, followed by service in the Army’s 101st Airborne Paratroop-
Forsyth joins Christmas Coalition – SEE PAGE 3A.
CHAMPION SKIERS – Above, John Appleby (Photo courtesy Debra Appleby per Table Rock Lake Group Facebook) Right, all of the July 12 winners (Photo courtesy Missouri Waterski Federation Facebook)
Blackwood (Photo submitted)
These two anglers on
PIZZA RANCH HELPS BRANSON VETERANS OF AMERICA 913
FUND
WILLIAM G. GRONINGER SCHOLARSHIPS – Pizza Ranch’s Community Impact Night helped the Branson Veterans of America 913 fund their William G. Groninger scholarship fund. BVA 913 members helped clear tables of serviceware and clean tables for four hours. In return, Pizza Ranch shared the profits for the evening. Cash tips were also given to BVA 913, adding to the funds raised. With funds earned Friday, July 25, the last of four service nights, the scholarships are fully funded for 2026. The William G. Groninger scholarships are awarded to deserving high school graduating students. Two $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year. Pictured from left to right: Brittany Bostic, shift lead; Bob Peacor, shift lead; Dick Burkhalter – BVA 913 Representative (Photo submitted)
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Citizens of Merriam
Woods are invited to a community meeting to discuss several topics of importance to area residents. First on the agenda is a discussion of the upcoming mayoral appointment. One purpose of the meeting is to seek input on who citizens would
like to see as Mayor of Merriam Woods, in order to petition the board of alderman.
The second order of business will be a discussion regarding the current board of alderman, involving transparency, honesty, treatment of former employees and other key concerns.
The final item on the agen-
da for the community meeting is discussion of the possible disincorporation of Merriam Woods. While another public meeting will be held at a later date to discuss this topic, this meeting will allow community members the opportunity to compile a list of questions to pose to county commissioner Shane Keys, who has offered his assistance as community members work towards this end. State Representative Brian Seitz has also offered his support and knowledge to the community in this matter. The community meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 5, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Dell Showers Community Center.
Friends Helping Friends benefit concert is this Sunday
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson entertainers Doug and Cheryl Gabriel have organized a special benefit for a fellow member of the entertainment community.
Friends Helping Friends is set for August 3. This fundraising event will feature the talent of Yakov Smirnoff, Billy Yates, SIX,
Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris, The Duttons, Melody Hart and the All Star Band, and Doug Gabriel.
There will also be a silent auction with many sought-after items on display prior to the concert. Proceeds from the concert and the silent auction will go to vocalist Shelia Yeary, who
is undergoing treatment for a rare form of brain cancer.
“This is an unforgettable afternoon of music and community as Branson’s beloved entertainers unite to support Shelia and family,” said Doug Gabriel. “Come be a part of something special.”
Friends Helping Friends gets underway this Sunday, August 3. Doors open at 12:30 for the silent auction and the concert begins at 2 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $20 or more per person for the concert. The event will be held at the Mansion Theatre on Branson’s Expressway Lane.
Back to School Bash is this Sunday
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson’s First Baptist Church is making heading back to school a little easier for area families with their annual Back to School Bash. Set for this Sunday, the Back to School Bash will feature fun for the entire family, including inflatables, games, face painting, balloon animals, crafts, swimming and more. Those in attendance will enjoy free
hot dogs, chips and popsicles. An exciting motorcycle and BMX Stunt Show is one of the highlights of the evening event.
Students will also receive a backpack, filled with school supplies needed to make this school year a success.
This is the 19th year that First Baptist Church has hosted the Back to School Bash. During that time, the church members and a large
number of dedicated volunteers have given away 27,000 backpacks full of school supplies and served up 36,000 hotdogs to area children and their families, as well as shared the love of God with all who attended.
This year’s Back to School Bash is sponsored by Branson Bank, Linkability, My 100.1, 102.9 The Z, Branson 4U 98.1, Casey’s, Kanakuk Kamp, Legends
106.3, Bank of Missouri, First Community Bank, Dr.
and the
The FBC Back to
Bash will be held on Sunday, August 3, from 5 to 8 p.m.
the Branson
mission is free, and food items and backpacks are free, while supplies last. The Branson Rec Plex is located at 1501 Branson Hills Parkway.
Upcoming area blood drives August 5 - 7: Get free zoo admissions
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Go wild about saving lives!
Dickerson Park Zoo and Community Blood Center of
the Ozarks (CBCO), the sole supplier of blood, platelets, and plasma to patients at over 40 area healthcare facilities, are partnering together to
help boost the region’s blood supply for local patients.
Stick out your paw and donate blood at a local upcoming blood drive. Each donation can help save the lives of up to three people in the Ozarks. Successful donors will receive a voucher for two free general admissions to the Dickerson Park Zoo, valued at $38. Zoo admission vouchers are valid through July 31, 2026. No other discounts or coupons apply. Donors will also receive a limited-edition zoo themed T-shirt, while
supplies last.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks donors provide all the blood for patients at Cox Medical Center Branson, CoxHealth South Medical Center, Mercy Hospital Springfield, as well as dozens of healthcare facilities across the Ozarks. Branson area residents will have the opportunity to donate blood on Tuesday, August 5, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for the Branson Community Blood Drive at The Grove Christian Church
Auditorium, 116 Pathway, Branson.
• Kimberling City area residents will have the opportunity to donate blood on Tuesday, August 5, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. for the Kimberling City Community Blood Drive at Elks Lodge Community Room, 37 Beach Boulevard, Kimberling City. Hollister area residents will have the opportunity to donate blood on Thursday, August 7, from 1-6 p.m. at Real Life Church Hollister, Fellowship Hall, 136 Hillbilly Lane, Hollister.
“We are proud to continue our partnership with Community Blood Center of the
Ozarks to support their lifesaving mission,” said Joey Powell, Public Relations and Marketing Director for Dickerson Park Zoo. “Several of our animals are trained for voluntary blood draws as part of their veterinary care, and we are excited to share that Yona and Lil Bear are two of our newest donors.” To help avoid wait times, appointments are strongly encouraged. Donors can schedule an appointment at https://www.cbco.org/ donate-blood/ or by calling 417-227-5006. Photo identification required. Please eat well and drink plenty of fluids prior to the blood drive.
Travis Brawner of Ozark Mountain ENT, Chick-fil-A
Branson Globe.
School
at
Rec Plex. Ad-
TO BRANSON
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A spirit of excitement and collaboration swept through Forsyth City Hall recently as city leaders, community volunteers and coalition partners gathered to announce a major holiday partnership. Forsyth has officially joined the Branson Christmas Coalition a 501(c)(4) whose mission is to encourage, inspire and help implement Christmas light installations. The day officially launched a cornerstone community project that will bring dazzling new lights, student-designed displays, and a renewed sense of holiday pride to Main Street.
“As we go forward, I’m excited that we’re going
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CoxHealth has been awarded a spot on the Fortune list of America’s Most Innovative Companies 2025. This prestigious award is presented by Fortune and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
“From enhancing our services by adding the latest in health care technology to pursuing collaborations to advance pediatric care for southwest Missouri, CoxHealth is always eager to push beyond our comfort zone to serve our community,” says Max Buetow, CoxHealth President and CEO. In recent years, CoxHealth has introduced a variety of innovative initiatives to en-
to spruce up the town and do some awesome things,” shared Forsyth Mayor Julie Aubuchonie.
The announcement was marked by the formal presentation of Forsyth’s coalition membership check at city hall on July 25, a moment captured in a round of photos and heartfelt thanks all around.
“We are deeply honored to welcome the City of Forsyth into the Christmas Coalition family, embracing one another in the spirit of giving and joy,” said Elizabeth Hughes, Coalition executive director. “Forsyth truly exemplifies the heartbeat of Ozark Mountain Christmas.”
“About six months ago, a committee was formed here in Forsyth to address
hance patient care and employee retention, such as: Groundbreaking collaboration to expand pediatric care
CoxHealth recently announced a formal agreement with St. Louis Children’s Hospital to expand pediatric care in southwest Missouri. CoxHealth and St. Louis Children’s Hospital – with the support and expertise of pediatric specialists at Washington University School of Medicine – will work collaboratively to bring more advanced care to children and families in Springfield and the surrounding region, reducing the need for families to travel long distances for specialty care.
Initial efforts will create a new pediatric hospital with-
the renewal of the lighting program,” explained Forsyth Christmas Committee Chairperson Roxanne Amundsen. “Shortly after, the City Council approved to be a partner in this program, and we were really, really excited to have the city behind us.”
The committee’s inspiration comes from a legacy of small-town holiday pride and the memories of community-driven lighting projects to celebrate Ozark Mountain Christmas stretching back to the early 1990s.
In 2024 the Elks Lodge formed a 501(c)(3) called Lake Taneycomo Elks Charitable Fund for the benefit of lodge operations and to be able to supplement the
in the walls of CoxHealth, which will allow for close collaboration with WashU Medicine clinicians and St. Louis Children’s Hospital caregivers, as well as the construction of a comprehensive outpatient center that will include ambulatory surgery, pediatric specialty care clinics, imaging, laboratory services and infusion. Virtual Care Team
An effort to transform care delivery with an innovative virtual nursing model that enhances patient safety and provides meaningful support to bedside nurses.
The project has brought
Elks foundations. Grants provided by the Elks Lodge have been supporting the community of Forsyth for over the last 45 years, in ex-
virtual care into the medical-surgical environment and has helped recruit and retain the highest caliber nurses at CoxHealth. Experienced nurses can supplement their conventional bedside shifts with telehealth and continue to provide excellent patient care in a hybrid model.
The Alliance for Healthcare Education
A collaboration between CoxHealth, Missouri State University, Ozarks Tech and Springfield Public Schools to seamlessly guide students through health care pathways and into the workforce. The Alliance is an un-
cess of $650,000.
One of the biggest highlights announced is a $2,500 “Plugged In” grant from White River Valley Electric
precedented approach that will develop the talent to meet – and exceed – our region’s health care workforce needs for decades to come.
The partnering institutions recognize that by working together, they can achieve more than any one of them alone. Together,
The Alliance aims to become the largest producer of health sciences professionals in the Midwest, creating clear, rewarding career
Cooperative—funding that will put Forsyth high school FFA and shop students in the holiday spotlight!
pathways for students and professionals. Innovation Accelerator
A brainstorming and ideation event in which CoxHealth employees deliver “Shark Tank”-style presentations in front of key health system leaders at the efactory. This year was the 10th year of the Innovation Accelerator – a powerful reminder of CoxHealth’s history of cultivating an in-
his sister Vicki. We’d love to keep them together if possible!
Pictured from left to right: Forsyth Christmas Committee Chairperson Roxanne Amundsen, Christmas Coalition Executive Director Elizabeth Hughes, Forsyth Alderman Ward 1 Shawn Mathenia, Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge Trustee Eugene Thomas (Photo submitted)
Reader’s Corner: Dinosaur fun at Creation Experience Museum
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Last week, my husband and I stopped at the Creation Experience Museum, located just north of Branson at 4180 U.S. Hwy. 65, Walnut Shade. Heading out on a Kansas trip during which we would see our grandkids, I was in a bit
of a tight situation, having recalled a promise to our 4-year-old grandson that next time I came, I would bring him a special gift for a special achievement. And that kid loves anything to do with dinosaurs. With toybox space and shelf space at a premium in their home, I wanted to
make sure what we selected was worthwhile, and the Creation Experience Museum bookstore did not disappoint! There is a great selection of books for everyone, toddlers to adults, including fun adventure books written from a biblical creation-based view and solid science curric-
ulum materials for older kids. We grabbed one of the “Big Thoughts for Little Thinkers” series, about why Scripture can be trusted; plus, a dinosaur-themed activity book that had all three grands (ages 7, 4, and 2 ½) quickly engaged. And for that “special” gift—we found a nice
selection of good-quality dinosaur “stuffies.”
We decided on a triceratops, which was a huge hit with its new owner! In addition to the bookstore, there’s plenty of other information and exhibits including hands-on experiences for the kids. Whether you’re planning a visit to Branson, or a local resident looking for quality materials to enhance your kids’ education and boost your own faith, put the Creation Experience Museum on your list! Visit https://creationexperiencemuseum.com for more information and to plan your visit.
Writer Cindy Thomas to address women at luncheon, August 13
BY LAURI THOMPSON, Columnist
Branson Globe staff
writer Cynthia J. (Cindy)
Thomas will be the featured speaker at the Christian Women’s Connection Summer Luncheon at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 13.
Cindy writes a weekly devotional column for the Globe, plus feature sto-
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A special, fun-filled weekend will serve as a fundraiser for the Forsyth Library.
An exciting Scrapbooking Weekend is set for August 15-17 at Westgate
ries and news articles. Her favorite writing centers around ministries, nonprofits and veterans. The proud daughter of a World War II veteran, Cindy earned a B.A. in English from Friends University in Wichita, KS. She went on to do promotional work, focusing on missions, at her de-
Branson Woods Resort.
Only a few seats remain for this unique weekend event, filled with scrapping and crafting, food, fun and fellowship. For a nominal fee of only $180 per person, at-
nomination’s headquarters.
Cindy and her husband Philip live in Ridgedale, have been married for 44 years and have three adult children, Ashley, Brian and Luke. Philip is band director at Forsyth High School. The couple has been active in youth ministry.
A 16-year cancer survi-
tendees will reserve a table with which to work, and receive one meal per day, welcome gifts, door prizes and much more. The Scrapbooking Weekend will include make and take projects,
vor, Cindy is grateful for good health since that time. She enjoys reading, gardening and hikes or drives around the Ozarks – along with travels to other scenic areas.
Cindy’s theme will be “He Worked All Things Together for My Good.” The luncheon will be at
prizes, snacks, vendors, opportunities for networking and much more. You will have the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and meet new friends who share your interests.
the Pointe Royale Clubhouse, 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson and will also include a fun surprise fundraiser. It is non-denominational and is affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries. To reserve a spot, call or text 417-343-1418 by August 11. Cost for the buffet luncheon is $17.
All proceeds will benefit the Forsyth Library. Rooms are not included in the price but are available at a discounted rate.
The Scrapbooking Weekend kicks off at 8 a.m. on Friday, August 15, and runs through Sunday, August 17 at 4 p.m. For more information, contact Karen at 417546-7307 or via email at kriskatus@yahoo.com.
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The Library Center of the Ozarks is excited to announce two new services available at no cost to Library cardholders.
Book-a-Librarian
Do you want to learn more about technology, social media, or those fancy features on your cell phone?
We can help! LCO now offers a new service called Book-a-Librarian. This service allows you to work one-on-one with LCO staff in a 30-minute session to help you with a wide range
of technology-related topics. Topics include:
• Learning computer basics
• Using your devices: laptops, cell phones, tablets, etc.
• Using library services: downloading Libby or hoopla apps for eBooks and audiobooks; using Mango to learn a new language or Gale Legal Forms to find legal information and forms. Using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. Setting up and using email account
Learning how to use social media: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.
Book-a-Librarian service is available by appointment only. If you are interested in learning more about technology, you may schedule an appointment on the Library’s website or by calling the Library. Personalized book recommendations.
Don’t know what to read next? Do you need help finding a book or new author to read? We can help! Complete the online form
telling us what you like (and hate!) to read, and a librarian will email you suggestions within two – three business days. The more information you provide, the better recommendations we can offer. This service is free for Library cardholders looking for adult books. For more information about the Library’s services, programs, and resources please visit the website at www.LCOzarks.com, follow the Library on Facebook and Instagram (lcozarks) or call the Library at 417-3341418.
Thomas (FILE)
• INNOVATION
Continued from page 3A
novative mindset.
The Innovation Accelerator projects have helped colleagues become com-
“We are tremendously grateful to White River Valley Electric Cooperative for seeing the value in the project we submitted,” said Hughes.
Students will design and fabricate stunning new snowflake pole-mounts for Main Street, giving them hands-on experience and
• FISHING
Continued from page 1A
increase. There will be no increase for Missouri residents.
fortable with change, and open-minded to new approaches.
The Fortune and Statista award comes on the heels of CoxHealth being recog-
leaving a legacy they’ll share with future generations.
Local leaders stressed the importance of inclusive community involvement and the economic boost from holiday tourism.
“Being part of the Coalition is going to bring people here, which in return will help our businesses and create more opportunities,” said Rose Backlin, Forsyth Cham-
Wes Pfeifer, the owner of Trout Hollow Resort on upper Lake Taneycomo, calls the 233% increase “ridiculous.” He estimates that this increase will affect 50% of his clientele. “They might still come but will think twice about it.”
nized as one of “America’s Greatest Workplaces” and “America’s Greatest Workplaces in Health Care” by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group.
ber member/past president.
A new donation drive is launching now. The city’s fundraising goal is $40,000 for the project’s first year, which will cover a starter 14-foot tree and new pole decorations—with plenty of room to grow in future years.
The city’s new coalition membership also puts Forsyth on the region’s “Vir-
Fortune and Statista selected America’s Most Innovative Companies 2025 based on product innovation, process innovation and innovation culture. For the
tual Christmas Trail Map,” inviting holiday visitors to follow the trail from Silver Dollar City to Forsyth and discover the magic along the way.
They will also join the Coalition on reviving traditions too, announcing the return of a “synchronized lighting” event, where families, businesses and churches across the region will
evaluation of the innovation culture and the internal view of process innovation, Statista deployed online surveys where employees could score their own com-
flip the switch at 7 p.m. on November 1, officially ushering in the Ozark Mountain Christmas season together.
“This project is about more than lights—it’s about coming together, celebrating and showcasing Forsyth’s heart,” said Shawn Mathenia, Forsyth Ward I Alderman. “Fifty years from now, people will still be telling the story of how it
Nonresident Trout Permit.
pany on a scale system. The 300 U.S. companies with the highest score were awarded America’s Most Innovative Companies 2025.
started.”
Businesses, families and volunteers interested in donating, participating or learning more can contact Rose Backlin at 417-3316426 or Roxanne Amundsen at 417-818-7178. Checks can be made payable to the Lake Taneycomo Elks Charitable Funds and sent to P.O. Box 1450, Forsyth, MO 65653.
Phil Lilley, the owner of Lilley’s Landing Resort & Marina on upper Lake Taneycomo, classifies the jump from the current $12.00 per year cost for a Nonresident Trout Permit (NRP) to $40.00 as “extreme.” He believes that the high $40 price will discourage visitors from trout fishing in Missouri, especially those who come for brief trips or only one or two days. He said families will hesitate to pay $40 per person for a brief fishing excursion.
a more gradual, tiered approach. Instead of the flat $40 fee for the NRTP, make the fee $20.00, which is the same as in Arkansas. Another suggestion was to keep the $40.00 NRP for an annual permit but offer a three (3) day NRTP for $20.00.
The Arkansas NRTP is $20.00.
Both Wes and Phil favor
In his column “Missouri reels in nonresident anglers with steep trout permit hike?” elsewhere in this edition, this writer suggests that they “raise the daily rate for a ‘Daily Fishing Permit’” #1 $1.00 per day from $9.00 to $10.00, the “Nonresident Fishing Permit” to $60.00 #1 rather than the proposed $57.00 and charge $24.00 for the new annual
While there is still a 100% increase, it keeps the cost of trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo and other Missouri fishing competitive with that on the White River and Arkansas.
This writer talked with six local anglers, all of whom adamantly say that nonresident anglers should pay more because that’s what “we” have to when we go to other states. Not one of them knew Missouri is one of the very few states that has a Conservation Sales Tax serving as a primary funding mechanism for the Department of Conservation. In contrast, most other states rely on permit fees, etc., to fund their efforts.
The state sales tax rate in Missouri is 4.225%, of which 0.125% (1/8%) is the Conservation Sales Tax. Nonresident trout anglers and their families pay that tax on just about everything that they do in Branson and Missouri — retail sales, hotel bills, show and attraction tickets, etc. After this, none of them remained as firm about the rate increase as they were initially, and all concurred that the 233% increase in the cost of a Trout Permit for nonresidents was excessive.
The Missouri Conservation Commission initially approved the proposed permit changes at its May 16, 2025, meeting. They want public comments on these proposals, but the deadline for comments is July 31, 2025. After evaluating the public input and other information, the Commission will make a final decision at its September 12, 2025, meeting. If approved, the new prices would start on January 1, 2026. The MDC encourages anyone interested to share their feedback on its website at https://mdc. mo.gov/form/proposed-regulations-comments?regulation=251324.
#1 This permit is required to fish in Missouri and is in addition to the appropriate Trout Permit.
Ron was in the music
for over 60 years, working with and managing artists like Willie Nelson, Carman, The Blackwood Brothers, Hank Williams Jr.; Billy Walker, R. W. and Donna Blackwood and The Blackwood Singers, J. D. Sumner and The Stamps Quartet, Vern Gosdin and Jerry Wallace. He and his brother R. W. Blackwood Jr., performed on the stage of the Grand Old Opry in the 1960s.
Ron was considered one of the best masters of ceremony. He, along with members of his family and friends, headlined in theaters in Branson, MO; Pigeon Forge, TN; Maggie Valley, N.C. as well as in
concerts across the country. Guest speakers, singers and pianists at the celebration of life will include Shelley Layne Blackwood; Ron Blackwood Jr.; Jimmy, Billy and Terry Blackwood; The Blackwood Singers featuring R. W. and Donna Blackwood; Sandra Blackwood and Denny Yeary; Dan Betzer of Revival Fires; Chuck Crain; Rep. Brian Seitz; Tracy Heaston; Jim Bakker and Dr. Mike Brown.
The family requests in lieu of flowers that you please consider making a donation to one or both of the following scholarships in his name, as listed below:
• McLennan Community College Foundation Nursing Scholarships: Mail to 1400 College Dr., Waco, TX 76708, or give online at https:// www.mclennan.edu/ foundation/ Liberty University’s
School of Music Business Programs: Mail to Liberty University Office of Development, 1971 University Boulevard, Lynchburg, VA 24515 (check should include Ron Blackwood Endowment in the memo) or give online at https://give.liberty. edu/DGUGENFUND/ gift-info. (Please check “In Memory of Ron Blackwood Endowment”).
Please call to get
Worship Directory
You are encouraged to worship with us!
JULY
31 Library Center of the Ozarks: Teen Book Club for ages 14-16, from 5:30-6:15. Final teen book club meeting of the summer. “Between Shades of Gray” by Ruta Sepetys. Details for parents about the books and club are on the website, LCOzarks.com. 417334-1418. 200 S. 4th St., Branson.
AUGUST
• 3 Branson Masonic
Lodge #587: Spaghetti Lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Serving spaghetti, meatballs, garlic bread, salad, dessert and drink for only $10 for all you care to eat. This is a community fundraiser with
all proceeds staying in the local community. We provide socks to the local schools and help pay for school lunches. Come out and enjoy the day visiting and eating spaghetti. 100 Chiefs Ct., Branson. 318-349-2559. • 3 19th Annual Back-toSchool BASH at Rec Plex Park, 5 to 8 p.m. Free backpacks, supplies, swimming, inflatables, hot dogs, chips, popsicles, games, crafts, motorcycle, BMX, skateboard STUNT show, balloon animals, face painting. 1501 Branson Hills Parkway. For information, Fbcbranson.com
• 12 JV for Kids Back to School: Food, fun, giveaways at Jordan Valley
Clinic, 33 Gage Dr., Hollister, from 7 a.m.5 p.m. Check off your back-to-school health list with same-day visits including dental screenings, immunizations, sports physicals, vision exams, well child visits. For information: http:// jordanvalley.org/BACKTOSCHOOL
• 13 Learning on Wednesday: Reduce, reuse and recycle – “A commitment to community and world health.” Kimberling Area Library community room, 10:15 a.m. Join Korina and David Branson, managers of Earthwise, a local company that manages Kimberling City recycling center, who will review
history of local recycling, waste hierarchy, materials accepted for recycling, and value of program to local area and larger world. Coffee and light snacks provided. No prior registration required for this free event. www.kalib.org. 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City.
• 13 Ladies’ Summer Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cynthia Thomas, Branson Globe Staff Writer, will present “All Things Working Together for Good,” plus a surprise fundraiser. Point Royale Clubhouse, 142 Clubhouse Dr., Branson. Reserve your spot by calling 417-343-1418 by August 11, $17 for a delicious buffet lunch. All women
welcome at this non-denominational luncheon. Christian Women’s Connection Stonebridge on Facebook.
• 17 Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church: Special Sunday Confirmation Service by Bishop Amy Dafler Meaux, 4-6:30 p.m. Service at 4 and reception will follow with food and refreshments. All are invited to attend. There will NOT be a 10 a.m. service on this date. 107 Walnut Lane, Branson. https:// facebook.com/shepherdofthehillsepiscopalchurch
• 21 Learn Hands-Only CPR for FREE. Be prepared to save a life. Rotary Club of Hollister and Taney County Am-
bulance are partnering to save lives and invite you to invest one hour from 9-10 a.m. Taney County Ambulance District, 106 Industrial Park Drive, Hollister. Park at the rear of the building, enter through rear door marked education. Hands-only CPR can buy precious time to save a life until trained medical personnel arrive. About 40 people each hour have a cardiac arrest while not in the hospital (350,000 people a year). Nine out of ten of those individuals will not survive. Register for the FREE onehour Hands-Only CPR class at https://business. hollisterchamber.net/ap/ Events/Register/9eFvOq0TWC9Cx. For more information, phone the Hollister Chamber 417334-3050.
• 26 Wonders of Wildlife – PALS: Happy Campers, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Calling all wilderness explorers! Register your LITTLE adventurer for BIG fun! This month, PALS is going camping! Listen to tales around the campfire, go on a bear hunt, paint with marshmallows, hang out with friendly forest friends, and MORE! 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. https://wondersofwildlife.org/event/pals-happy-campers-2/
SEPTEMBER
• 6 End of Summer Fling: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 3 Northwoods Drive, Kimberling City, from 5-7 p.m. Food, beverages, fellowship and fun plus a silent auction to raise funds for local children’s charities such as Child Advocacy, school backpack programs, House of Hope Branson, and Children’s Smile Center
• 27 Fundraiser: Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake announce their Twilight Auction at Chateau on the Lake, 415 North State Highway 265, Branson., from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Buffet, silent and live auction. Tickets, information on our website: www.nftrl. org. NFTRL is a 501(c) (3) charitable organization of over 320 members serving Stone and Taney County charities.
Missouri reels in nonresident anglers with steep trout permit hike?
BY GARY J. GROMAN
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC)
is proposing an increase in the fee for nonresidents to fish for trout in Lake Taneycomo. It’s a new permit, the “Nonresident Trout Permit,” which will raise the current $12.00 Trout Permit cost for both residents and nonresidents to $40.00 for nonresidents, a 233.33 % increase. There will be no increase for Missouri residents. Currently, the permit fees for a three-day trout fishing trip on Lake Taneycomo cost a nonresident $39.00; a Dai-
ly Fishing permit at $9.00 per day; and a Trout Permit at $12.00#1. That works out to $13.00 per day. That same trip on the White River in Arkansas would cost a nonresident $50.00. A three-day fishing permit at $30.00 and a Nonresident Trout Permit at $20.00#1. That works out to $16.67 per day.
Things for a nonresident trout angler in Missouri will change drastically in 2026 if the proposed rate changes are adopted. While Arkansas
remains the same, the cost for nonresidents to take the same three-day trout fishing trip in Missouri increases to $67.00, a significant 72% rise. It gets even worse when you factor in that a lot of the trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo is for one day or less, as people try out trout fishing for the first time or fish from a boat while the rest of the family enjoys a boat ride on Lake Taneycomo. Currently, a nonresident can trout fish for one (1) day
for $21.00 per person, a Daily Fishing Permit at $9.00, and a Trout Permit at $12.00. In 2026, that cost will rise to $49.00 per person, a Daily Fishing Permit at $9.00, and a Nonresident Trout Permit at $40.00 for a whopping 133% price increase!
“But Seagull, shouldn’t nonresidents pay more? Don’t the surrounding states charge more for nonresidents to fish?” “In order, ‘Maybe so’ and ‘Yes, they do, but none appear to be
as ill-advised as Missouri’s proposed change, and most do not have a state Conservation Sales Tax as Missouri does.’” “But Arkansas has such a tax and still charges more for a Nonresident Trout Permit.” “True, but it’s only 100% above the resident rate at $20.00 versus the 233% above the resident rate that the $40.00 proposed 2026 Missouri Nonresident Trout permit will be.” While many other states
a.k.a. The Ole Seagull, Columnist Emeritus
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.
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EDITORIAL
POLICY:
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BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
T
hank you to my friends who happen to be named Martha—three or four of you—for perspective over the years about having that name. In Luke’s gospel, chapter 10, we see Jesus and his friends entering “the home of a woman named Martha,” implying
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks.net
Iwas about eight years old, wearing overalls, and climbing over the big horse gate in the barn. There were two big horse gates in our little barn, a ladder to the haymow made of mismatched wood, and a little plastic duck with big blue
BY LAURI LEMKE THOMPSON, Columnist
[This is part two in a two-part series in which the author compares lessons learned while doing a puzzle to a “bigger picture,” i.e., life itself. Lessons 1-3 were in part one.]
1. Resist the temptation to despair, insisting “The piece I need simply isn’t
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT
Love and commitment within a home—first to God and then to each other—are key components to a thriving family. Jesus said, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy
Reflections:
that she may have been a widow or the oldest of unmarried siblings including Mary and Lazarus, and thereby responsible for the household.
Like many of us, Martha wanted to be hospitable. When her sister didn’t pitch in to help, she appealed to Jesus, prompting His famous reply, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her” (v. 41-42, NKJV). Some older translations use the word “cumbered” to describe Martha.
I’ve heard plenty of ser-
mons (as have my friends) about being more like Mary and prioritizing quiet time with the Lord, but let’s be honest, if we all did that all the time, how would things get done?
As with many topics, context—from Luke, as well as other Gospels and the entire Bible—is key. The Benson Commentary says it well: “Martha expressed her regard for her divine guest by the care she took to provide the best entertainment in her power for him and his disciples. . . Jesus’ repetition of Martha’s name [also] implies tenderness and care.”
The word “cumbered” implies being drawn many
ways at the same time, agitated like swirling water. Jesus’ visit should have been seen as an opportunity to learn from Him, rather than an occasion for worry. He would have valued Martha even if the meal was not quite as she wished—in our context, sandwiches or quick takeout rather than stressing in the kitchen.
Throughout Scripture, we see many people serving: As the early Church grew, the apostles appointed deacons to help with practical needs. The famous Proverbs 31 woman worked hard to earn income and was hospitable. Early Christians were encouraged to host
Been thinkin’ about... Barn poems
eyes — a duck covered in dust and cobwebs — who perched on a big roofing nail on one of the mismatched wood partitions. I don’t know where the duck came from. He was keeping watch over the barn since before I was born, and he kept a watch over me when I sat on the John Deere garden tractor and pretended to drive.
That big horse gate had to be climbed over whenever I played with the goats. And I played with the goats often. The gate was a special thing for me, as an eight year old. For some reason, I had made the act of climb-
A
here!” Giving up would be easy, but is that what you want? With a puzzle, I have sometimes found that if I leave one section alone and go to a different one, when I return the mysteriously missing piece suddenly reveals itself! “Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble.” Romans 12:13a (NLT). Further, we’re told in Phil. 4:19 “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from His glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” (NLT).
2. Don’t try to force a piece
God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” (Matthew 22:3739, King James Bible). In an article entitled, “You Can’t Give to Others What You Don’t Already Have,” Gary Smalley said, “When you love God with every part of your being, He fills you up to overflowing with His amazing love. Out of that overflow, you give to others. This is the balanced life, the only
From our readers: Unity
Why are we such a divided (United) States? When one looks at eternity, what really matters? Political parties, church denominations, different races and different lifestyles all seem irrelevant at our end. We look at our hearts. Did I love God? Did I love my neighbor (everyone around me) as myself? This then is unity and
ing over a point of repetition for whatever I thought — or needed — to learn. The summer before, every time I climbed over the gate, I had practiced rolling my r’s just like my fluent-in-Spanish sister had demanded. It took a while, but I learned. Too bad I never tried learning to whistle the same way.
But this was April and I was nearing the end of the second grade. Kindergarten, first grade, second grade, the end of each school year was marked by a school program, and we all had our performance assignments. Deathly afraid of singing in public, I was weirdly un-
to fit where it was not meant to go. It will not work out well for you – in a puzzle or in life. Proverbs 3:6 says “In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (NIV). Remember the old TV show “Father Knows Best?” Father God always knows best, so let Him lead.
3. Abandon preconceived notions. I have often assumed that a certain piece goes this-away when it really goes thataway. Sometimes when I turn the piece upside down or sideways, wala! I’ve even discovered
kind of life worth living.” On the other hand, when families lack these key components, it can leave them drained and unable to minister to others effectively. Discontent can be a tool that the enemy uses to destroy families by keeping them focused on themselves, what they lack, and how those closest to them are to blame. Once a family member jumps on this deadly roller coaster, it can leave their head spinning in deceptive disillusionment. However, Paul said that
afraid of speaking in public—specifically of reciting poetry. And I had already gotten my assignment, all eight stanzas — “Under the spreading chestnut-tree / The village smithy stands; The smith, a mighty man is he, With large and sinewy hands / And the muscles of his brawny arms / Are strong as iron bands. Poetry has been given an effete quality over the past several generations, conjuring images of dainty men and tea-sipping, over-thinking intellectuals. Or of women in rooms of
that I was trying to place an entire section in the wrong spot. Wrong assumptions: We’ve all brought untold problems upon ourselves with those, have we not? The Bible is full of reminders to practice humble teachability. Just one example? “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2 (NIV).
4. When impatience and vexation strike, step away for a while. How very true in life as well. In the familiar 23rd Psalm, we hear, “The Lord is my shepherd, I
there is great gain to having godliness with contentment (1 Tim. 6:6). Contentment is a choice grounded in obedience, and godly love involves the choice to lay down one’s life like Jesus did (1 John 3:16). Ajith Fernando said, “Obedience is the key that opens the floodgates of God’s love. There is no shortage of love in God, as we have said, but we can block its flow by disobedience. Christian love is decisive.” Families must make a concentrated effort to recognize when discontent starts
traveling evangelists. And the list goes on. Moving to our modern context, who’s going to serve the church fellowship meal? Host life group? Bring treats for VBS?
Later in the Gospels, we see that Martha’s mealtime resentment that day was not indicative of her entire relationship with Jesus— perhaps she took seriously His admonition to consider what was truly important. When her brother Lazarus died, she was still the one to greet Jesus and even a little frustrated or confused when He finally arrived: “If you had been
cut flowers and little overdressed children, coddled and disallowed to grow up. Too bad for me that, at eight, I already loved poetry.
“His hair is crisp, and black, and long; His face is like the tan; His brow is wet with honest sweat, He earns whate’er he can, And looks the whole world in the face / For he owes not any man. I also began whispering the poetry while sitting at the supper table, reaching for the hickory-flavored barbecue sauce I loved so much on my fried round steak. My
lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul.”
5. Celebrate small victories. When you get one section done, rejoice! Same in life. The Old Testament is full of festivals and celebrations. In Ps. 135:3 it says “Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; celebrate His lovely name with music.” (NLT).
6. Puzzle finished? Congratulations! “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.” II Timothy 4:7 (NLT).
to slip in and to, as Barney Fife used to say, “nip it in the bud.” Instead of focusing on each other’s faults, family members should emphasize praiseworthy attributes, asking themselves, “What can I do today to show my family members I love them?” God can then use this process to open the floodgates of love in their hearts.
Fernando said, “One of the most obvious signs of the primacy of God in the Christian home is prayer. Yet prayer usually does not hap-
TIFFANY GRAVETT, PAGE 8B
peace!
Respectfully, Betty
LaGue,
Hollister
Have you heard?
Since 2012, The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) has been admitting transgender women into the organization. Founded in 1890 as a female only organization, the DAR clarified in October 2023 that “a trans-
gender woman can join the DAR.” President General Pamela Rouse Wright emphasized this membership policy by saying in 2023 “we will continue to welcome them in our society in the future.”
By definition, a transgender woman was born with male anatomy, has XY chromosomes but identifies as a woman. To identify as a woman, a man believes he
is a woman and lives as a woman. In many states in the United States, a man can amend their birth record gender marker to female.
If qualified by lineage, every applicant seeking membership in the DAR must prove they are a female by submitting their current certified birth certificate stating they are female as proof of their gender. Today’s DAR members enjoy equal access
to female private spaces which includes restrooms, dressing rooms and roommate assignments. The organization has approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide.
If you are a DAR member or former member in need of additional information about this policy, please contact by email: dar33club@gmail.com . Sincerely, Linda Oeser, Branson West
Staff Writer
SEE CYNTHIA THOMAS, PAGE 3B
SEE JOSHUA HESTON, PAGE 4B
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
I
along the river for my kids’ teams to practice on. The ballfield was a great decision, but putting the porta-potty far away from the field was a bad decision when the river flooded and carried it downstream. Sometimes, unintended consequences sneak up on you. Love him or hate him, Trump is winning
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®,
provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the
Tri-Lakes area.
Branson
When your house doesn’t sell, it doesn’t just feel frustrating – it feels personal. You put time, money, and emotional energy into this move. You told your friends and family it was happening. And now that your listing has expired without a buyer?
You’re left feeling stuck, and maybe even a little embarrassed. And here’s what most agents won’t tell you. Over 70% of homeowners who re- list with a different agent sell their house.
Re-list with the same agent? That stat drops to only 50%, according to the latest data from REDX. That’s like leaving the fate of your sale to a coin toss. And that’s not good enough. REDX data also shows that only 1 in 3 homeowners with expired listings actually make that change. That means most sellers either give up or repeat the same mistakes, so they get
Continued from page 2B
here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). Her personality of “let’s get things done” hadn’t changed—but her faith in Jesus’ power and purpose had grown, as she stated, “But even now, I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You” (v. 22).
the trade war. Hopefully, he doesn’t win too much and cause negative unintended consequences.
President Trump announced last Tuesday night that a 15% tariff trade agreement with Japan, up from the previous rate of 2%, including the important Japanese automotive industry. This would increase Japan’s tariff payments from last year’s $16 billion to $126 billion, which will help pay down the U.S. debt.
The Japan deal came on the heels of two other deals with Indonesia and the Philippines. The Indonesia deal alone increases the Indonesia tariff payments from last year’s $1 billion to just over $7 billion.
Trump knows the U.S. market is the biggest cus-
the same disappointing outcome. You deserve better. Same house. Different strategy. Completely different results.
Let’s break down what might’ve gone wrong – and how a fresh perspective can help you have a winning strategy this time.
1. It Was Priced Too High
Today, homebuyers are feeling the squeeze of higher mortgage rates, so even a slightly overpriced home will get overlooked. And once your listing starts to go stale, it’s hard to regain momentum.
Missing the mark on pricing is a costly mistake – and too many homeowners are doing that very thing right now.
What we need to do now: We need to analyze the latest sales in your area to make sure you’re hitting the right number. This includes taking a hard look at real-time buyer behavior, and any feedback you got from open houses or showings your first time around. Pricing at, or even just below, current market value is a winning play because it drives more buyers to your listing – and that amps up the competition for your home.
2. It Didn’t Show Well
You only get one shot at a first impression. If the listing photos didn’t pop, the house wasn’t staged well, or it wasn’t updated, most buyers will skip over it without ever scheduling a showing. And even if buyers did
If you’re a Martha personality, know that God loves you and He made you with your unique talents. But even as you’re making your to-do list, spend time in prayer, hearing from the Holy Spirit about what should be on that list.
(News flash: Just because someone else thinks their priority should become
tomer in the world, and he thinks other countries should pay for access to U.S. customers and the protection of the U.S. military. So far, the different countries are agreeing to higher tariffs after doing the math of what the consequences would be to their economies if they were priced out of the U.S. market or lost access to it.
The U.S. is earning serious money from tariffs. In June alone, the U.S. Treasury collected $27 billion in customs revenue, a $20 billion increase from June 2024, and it will get even higher after the Japan tariff kicks in.
Although media headlines might suggest that the U.S. is lowering its tariffs, the fact of the matter is that the U.S. is increasing tariffs at a rapid rate. The average
show up, small things like scuffed walls, outdated light fixtures, or a wobbly doorknob can turn them away. What we need to do now: Let’s walk through your house with fresh eyes to see if there are any areas that may have been sticking points inside and out. Sometimes taking down old drapery, some light staging, or even a fresh coat of paint can completely change how a buyer feels about the home.
3. It Didn’t Get the Right Exposure
If your home didn’t sell, chances are it wasn’t getting the visibility it deserved. Generic flyers and a few online photos aren’t enough anymore. Today’s top agents are using highly targeted digital marketing, social media strategies, custom video content, and more to get your listing in front of the right buyers at the right time. What we need to do now: We have to do more than just put your house online and hope it sells. Together, we can come up with a real plan to maximize its exposure. With the right pricing, staging, and marketing, your house will sell quickly. Here’s a real-world example (see graph at right).
4. You Weren’t Willing To Negotiate In this market, sellers who aren’t open to negotiating on things like closing costs, inspection repairs, or other concessions are often left be-
yours, doesn’t mean it has to; ask God first!) Even while busy with important duties, we can “pray without ceasing,” breathing a quick prayer for God’s guidance. It’s not wrong to work hard, but as Jesus reminded Martha, we must choose what is important.
effective tariff on all U.S. imports as of July 2 was just over 13%, well above the 2% rate in 2024, according to JPMorgan Chase, which is the highest since before World War II.
The risk is that Trump could push other countries into tariffs further than what the markets can tolerate. With all the tariff fears, investors might expect the global economy to show signs of slowing, but the U.S. markets are again at all-time highs, and global growth remains a solid 2.5%.
Investment, spending and international trade are all positive, despite the worldwide reworking of the tariff system.
The big fish yet to land is the European Union (EU). The Japan agreement has given the EU optimism that it might be able to achieve
hind. And if your last agent didn’t set that expectation with you, that’s a real shame. What we need to do now: Be willing to meet buyers where they are. The goal is to get the deal done – and sometimes that means getting creative to help buyers cross the finish line. Home values have increased by over 55% over the last five years, so you likely have enough wiggle room to offer some perks without sacrificing your bottom line. Bottom Line
If your house didn’t sell and your listing has expired, you don’t need to give up. You just need a better plan. And a better partner. Over 70% of homeowners who switch agents sell their house after re-listing it. That’s not a coincidence. That’s strategy. If you’re ready for a proven approach, let’s talk so you know what to do differ-
a 15% rate, which would be negligible for its markets. They may not like paying more, but they realize they need the U.S. more than the U.S. needs them. That is the penalty for having the weaker hand at the negotiating table.
The China deal isn’t finalized yet, but it will likely remain around 40%.
Canada and Mexico, like the EU, need the U.S. consumer more than the U.S. consumer needs them. Our North American neighbors may not like it, but they will eventually agree to higher tariffs, albeit at a lower rate than the rest of the world.
For the stock market, the important thing is that a 15% overall rate, like Japan agreed to, is back in play. And markets seem able to handle it.
The U.S. is the world’s largest economy and has the largest military. This means that other countries need the U.S. more than the U.S. needs them, and the U.S. is able to dictate terms, which others must live with. So far, the market likes it, but let’s hope the deals are not too lopsided as to hamstring the world’s economy in the future. One of the worst experiences of my life was having to find that busted-up rented porta-potty and haul it back up to the ballfield. Hopefully, Trump and his team don’t win so big that they force the markets to clean up a messy situation when unintended consequences arise down the road. Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
ently – and why doing different things actually works.
• CYNTHIA THOMAS
BY COWBOY JOHN FULLER-
TON, a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
Last week I gave ya’ll a look back at the Vining family here in our Garber neighborhood in the Roark Valley not far from the Taney/Stone County line. I mentioned that Erastus passed in 1906. His wife Elizabeth passed nine years later in 1915.
The Vinings’ original 160 acres was a beautiful property, with Roark Creek flowing through the middle of it. Once the railroad opened for business in early 1906, postal mail routes were changed, and Garber became a distributing post office for two other communities, Irma to the north and Notch to the southwest in Stone County.
In 1907, Erastus and Elizabeth’s son Charles (Gussie) Vining, would take another job in addition to his farm work and railroad tie hacking. He accepted a position to carry the mail from the Garber Post Office to Notch,
• JOSHUA HESTON
Continued from page 2B mom had taught me well in learning poetry, which was a requisite every Friday during the school year. But these words by Longfellow were different, and certainly not effete. I wondered what it would be like to grow up to be a man like “The Village Blacksmith.” Much to the chagrin of many members of my family as well as the Department of Education, I was never
Memories from the Homestead: The Vinings – remembering ‘Fiddlin’ Jake’ [Part 2]
a three-mile horseback ride. This daily position lasted four years, and a few years later he agreed to another four-year term.
Levi Morrill was the Notch Postmaster, known to millions as the Uncle Ike character in “The Shepherd of the Hills” novel. In Gussie’s eight years as mail carrier, only one time was he ever late with the mail, a time when he was two hours late. It wasn’t really Gussie’s fault.
“You see, it was really Uncle Ike’s fault,” Vining recalled in a 1947 interview with Bruce Trimble.
“Before I got to the Forks, I found Uncle Ike down in the holler with a coon treed in a big oak tree. It took us two hours to get that coon.”
The next day when Gussie brought the mail, he asked Uncle Ike what he did with the coon. Ike answered, “Ba thundas, son, what fer you think I was wiping the grease offen my beard? Ike pointed to the side of the post office where the coon’s hide was neatly stretched over the pine siding.
Gussie’s brother James owned the land where the Garber townsite would end up in 1907 on a small piece of land next to the railroad, about 300 yards from the
enrolled in public school but I did go to a weird private school for my first three school years. The school was in one church and then another, though not a Christian school, and their patterns of teaching and discipline would best be described as hippie-like. However, one bright spot was “poetry Fridays,” an event that filled most of my fellow students with something ranging from disdain to tear-stainedtrembling fear.
County line. J.K. Ross negotiated a deal with James Vining and the railroad to plat a townsite on ten acres of land on the north side of the railroad tracks. This was the site where Gussie picked up the mail, riding across the valley to the Forks at Notch.
Harold Bell Wright’s novel “The Shepherd of the Hills” changed the lives of many in the years following its 1907 release. Wright and Gussie had become well acquainted, and sure enough, Gussie was Wright’s inspiration for the “Fiddlin’ Jake” character.
It’s not known how and when Gussie took up the fiddle, but it’s very evident that he played at a number of parties and dances for several years. Wright introduces Vining as “Fiddlin’ Jake” in Chapter 15 of “The Shepherd of the Hills.” This particular chapter, “The Party At Fords,” introduces Jake to the readers in a quote from Sammy Lane as she explained that her dad didn’t play fiddle anymore, and Mandy chose Fiddlin’ Jake for the doins instead. This can be found on page 134 in the earlier editions.
Gussie was asked many times in later years if he really played that dance the way Harold Bell Wright
Every Friday morning, every student was expected to recite a poem of their choice, all ages, all grades, no exceptions. It was a small school, perhaps 20 students total. Most mumbled and stumbled and sometimes cried their way through the exercise.
Poetry Fridays perhaps existed as some form of a behavioral group experiment as little — read no — help was given to actually learn the poems. We were just supposed to be ready.
described it. He recalled playing at the Ford place several times and played at other events nearby, all in the Roark or Fall Creek valley.
In the late 1930s, Vining was offered a tour guide job from Lizzie McDaniel who was the caretaker of Old Matt’s Cabin and owner of the 160-acre farm where “The Shepherd of the Hills” was written in 1905. Lizzie believed it was a great opportunity to have an actual book character at the farm; guests would often ask him to share his memories of Harold Bell Wright as well as the Rosses—Old Matt and Aunt Mollie.
Vining recalled that Old Matt was known for his honesty and was respected by everyone. “After Old Matt sold the farm and started his store at Garber, I hauled ties and sold to him,” he remembered.
In later years, Vining worked every summer for Lizzie McDaniel, and after her passing in early 1946, he would work for Bruce and Mary Trimble. In addition to conducting guided tours of Old Matt’s Cabin, he would occasionally play a few dance tunes on the fiddle, entertaining guests in between tours. Today, Gussie’s dresser and mirror
My secret weapon turned out to be my mom, who knew I would existentially collapse if I wasn’t prepared for something. And so she taught me to choose my poem on each Friday afternoon after school, coaching me to hand-write the poem on paper over and over, then reciting the stanzas to her and myself every chance I got. I fell in love with the lilt of the language — “The moon? It is a griffin’s egg, Hatching tomor-
are on display in the bedroom next to Aunt Mollie’s spinning wheel.
Gussie would often enter regional fiddle contests, and there’s quite a bit of press about his appearances at the Eureka Springs Folk Festival in 1948 and 1949.
My Granny Evelyn recalled working with him daily, the summer she worked as a Cabin tour guide in 1948.
“Sometimes we were taking sixty people an hour through the cabin,” Granny remembered. The populari-
row night. And how the little boys will watch / With shouting and delight / To see him break the shell and stretch / And creep across the sky...”
Vachel Lindsay wrote “Yet Gentle Will the Griffin Be (What Grandpa Told the Children),” many, many years before I was born but his words of magic and mischief and hope stole into my soul, changing me forever. And tonight, I still hold my first,
ty of the John Wayne movie version of “The
of the
brought quite an increase in
The 1950 season was Vining’s last year at The
herd of the
Farm. Charles Augustus Vining (Fiddlin’ Jake) would pass away on January 22, 1951, at the age of 70. He was laid to rest near his parents, and brother, close to several of his dear neighbors and Shepherd of the Hills characters at the Evergreen Cemetery.
original poetry book in hand, feeling the dry-leaf texture of the aging pages, admiring the simple pen-and-ink illustrations, gratitude swelling my soul for the poets who created even as they asked themselves if what they were doing was worth it. Vachel Lindsay, manically depressed and in debt, killed himself at the age of 52, leaving behind a family. I’m grateful I had no internet to tell me that when I was eight and falling in love with his words.
Shepherd
Hills”
visitor numbers.
Shep-
Hills
Charles Vining in the late 1940s fiddling a tune next to the front steps of Old Matt’s Cabin. (Photo courtesy of John Fullerton)
BY LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer
If you are an Elvis fan or know of one, then Branson King Resort and Suites is the place for you! In visiting with the owner, Ronny (who was/is an Elvis Tribute Artist), you can see all the love and admiration in every detail of each room of these condos. It starts outside the front door to every nook in the entire place. I was amazed at all the details that go into each one. You definitely feel that you are a guest of Elvis himself. He and his wife Barbara have done their research, searching and buying the exact pieces that are
BY
history buff and regular visitor to Branson. You can find more of Bob’s work including his historical podcasts on his website bobfordshistory.com. Bob can be reached at robertmford@aol.com.
N
o, we are not talking about your 14-year-old granddaughter wanting a new nose ring. We are describing what motivates a combat air crew through difficult times in war!
“Nose Art” is the term widely used to describe the
Area Entertainment: Ultimate Elvis sleeping space
in each themed room. They have a John Wayne condo and a couple of other themed rooms that you will enjoy. You will see touches of Coca-Cola sprinkled into the mix as well, since you are looking at the past. Nothing better than a Coca-Cola to add to the flavor of all this! The rooms have all that you need for the comfort of your home away from home, including pinball machines, stereos, record selections and much more. You will get to experience a round bed, something that will be a conversation piece for sure! There are many amenities that go along with the rental. The condo resort has an 18hole golf course, swimming pools, tennis courts and even a game room. Other amenities also include a fitness center, business center, movie room, sports courts, snack bar, restaurant and a gift shop. You have the
closeness of town and the quiet of the country at your steps. You will get to experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets. You are within driving distance to both Lake Taneycomo and Table Rock Lake with all the activities, shopping in old downtown Branson and the Branson Landing, and minutes to the “Strip” with all those entertainment activities and even spotting an Elvis or two!
The reservations can be made with ticket packages for entertainment. Just check when you contact them. These are available yearround. They have plenty of other rooms, condos and suites. Check them out for a cozy couples get-away, family reunion or friends’ retreat!
Booking your stay is easy at bransonkingresort.com. For more information, their address is 450 S. Hwy. 165, Branson; or contact 417332-8550 or 888-320-8550. Check Branson King Resort
and Suites on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or Google.
I will be doing a follow-up with interview with Ronny about his upcoming “Elvis Explosion Event” that he and his band (Change of Habit Showband) are being featured in La Crosse, WI, on September 3-7, 2025. This event is raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. You can check this out at kingexplosion.com. Ronny is the host and emcee. Elvis Tribute artists participating will be David Lee, Dan Barella & Friends, Ryan Pelton and even Joseph Hall, who has done shows here in Branson. Grab your tickets now for this fun and charitable event for a good cause that is close to my heart!
All right, all right, Elvis has left the building...and gone to this condo at Branson King Resort and Suites. (Photo by Luanna Fullerton)
Keep your nose up, with art
illustrations drawn mostly in the front or nose of an aircraft that was “go’en to war.”
These designs would create a sense of identity and comradery for the pilot and his crew. World War II by those in the know is considered the “golden age” of nose art.
For centuries, combatants have adorned their weapons, shields, clothes and selves with symbols, shapes or messages that personalized the fight, motivating and reminding them of their dedication.
During World War II the United States Army Air Force, the predecessor to the U.S. Air Force, was the only branch that allowed overt nose art. The Navy and Marines, it seemed, lacked the understanding concerning the importance of team expression or having any sense of humor at all. A little home-
spun fun from the deadly reason men were on these planes in the first place, seems to me would be a team binder and morale booster.
Millions of U.S. civilians left a society based on individualism and now suddenly thrown into a world of conformity and unity, that would be quite a shock. Any means of conveying one’s personality would help the normal “trying to cope” recruit, by bucking, just a little, the rigid military system.
In dog fights through World War I, insignias were needed to tell the good guys from the bad. “Many volunteer American pilots who joined the World War before 1917 were in the Lafayette Escadrille squadron fighting alongside the French. Their all-American symbol plastered on the side of each
plane was a Seminole Indian Chiefdom looking menacing in a full headdress,” so states Kevin Drewelow Director of the Combat Air Museum in Topeka. Kevin’s Museum has a replica 1916 Bi-Winged French Nieuport, with the Chief’s insignia on the fuselage.
Most World War II nose art, in an airman’s world, illustrated a revealing “what we were fighting for,” sketch. That meant these young men/ boys had salacious women in various poses expressing suggestive phrases while delivering death and destruction—Lucky Lady, Heavenly Body, Kentucky Virgin, Fertile Myrtle, Hell Cat and, of course, Memphis Belle.
In 1940 Argentinian Alberto Vargas introduced the “Vargas Girls.” Risqué Esquire magazine published
these scantily clad vixens— perfect timing! Hundreds of aircraft noses suddenly had alluring ladies sitting on bombs like riding a horse, seductively delivering devastation.
Then there were the specific pin-up Hollywood stars men dreamed about that dotted fuselages. Again, “our dream girls we are fighting for,” Betty Grable, Rita Hayward, Jane Russell and the soon to be TV’s Lois Lane,
Noel Neill. Not all planes featured the opposite sex, some were just clever—Gone with the Wind, Special Delivery, We Never Miss, Sentimental Journey, My Ach’en Back and Section 8. Along with the nose plane design, crews wore patches depicting what unit they belonged. I’d like to meet the crew that walked around with a “Section 8” emblem on their bomber jacket; that’s SEE BOB FORD, PAGE 8B
BOB FORD, Writer,
The silent epidemic stealing mobility from Branson’s seniors
PAID SUBMISSION TO BRANSON GLOBE
It starts subtly — a little numbness in your toes, maybe some tingling after a walk or a round of golf. Most people shrug it off. But over time, that “little nuisance” can become a life-altering condition: peripheral neuropathy.
Doctors often call it “nerve damage,” but to those living with it, it feels more like robbery! Relax-
BY JODY JOHNSON GODFREY
Wellness Design Specialist
F
inally, perhaps my time has arrived and much of what I’ve held near and dear to my heart (aka “common sense”) has become “cool” to the trendy and fickle masses. Getting back to basics and saving money wherever and however we can is always a step forward. Making our own sunscreen will save money, but it will, as well, enable us to
W
e get asked frequently at the
ation… Balance... Freedom… Slipping away or almost gone. And here in Branson, where our seniors value their independence and active lifestyles, that loss is deeply felt.
What’s worse — many patients are told that nothing can fix it. The standard phrase: “Try this prescription.” Meanwhile, the side effects can be just as frustrating as the symptoms.
But neuropathy does not have to be a life sentence.
According to the NIH, nearly one in three adults over 65 experience neuropathy symptoms — and the number is rising. Even scarier, neuropathy contributes to more than 86,000 U.S. amputations per year.
Branson-area specialist Dr. Justin Gregory says the problem is not just the condition itself, but how it is often ignored or masked
with medications instead of being addressed at the source.
“So many patients come in thinking they just have to live with it,” Dr. Gregory says. “But we are seeing real, measurable improvements in people who were told there were no options left.”
If you or someone you love is struggling with burning, numbness, pins and needles, or worsening
balance, it could be neuropathy. And if that’s the case, there is hope.
On Tuesday, August 12, Dr. Justin Gregory is offering a free Neuropathy Solution Seminar at Healing Arts Center.
This eye-opening one-hour event will explain drug-free, non-surgical approaches that are helping people right here in Branson regain feeling and stability — and take back their lives.
Natural sunscreen – the why’s and how’s
be assured that we are putting the best ingredients on and, yes, “in” us as all ingredients applied topically passes into us via “transdermal travel.”
Sunscreens have become important and very necessary what with the disappearance of the ozone layer; whereas we used to mainly connect sunscreen with the summer months, it would totally be a responsible habit to begin applying it year around. For us females, this chore is a little more natural, as we are used to applying moisturizers mornings and evenings; most guys don’t give a thought to protecting their skin. Remember, “old new tricks, guys.”
Another good reason to make our own sunscreen is
to be able to avoid extra and unneeded/harmful chemicals coming into our bodies. “Shelf life” of commercially prepared health and beauty products will most generally be a bad thing if it is “long” and much better if it is “short.” Preservatives are only healthy for shelves, not humans.
For those of us not comfortable in the “science lab” and who don’t like to experiment and play around with perfecting formulations and such, here is your best bet. Select your favorite cost-effective body lotion or cream, and for every one ounce of product, add 250 mgs of crushed vitamin C (if you can purchase the “C with rosehips” added, this is even better). I use the old-fashioned apothecary pill smasher, but
if you don’t have one, you can put several tablets of C in a blender and pulverize them into a fine powder. If you use 1,000 mg tablets and throw in, say, 30 pills, then in order to get an accurate facsimile of one 1,000 mg pill, you’d have to divide the powder into 30 equal portions and then add one of those “equal portions” to four ounces of your favorite lotion. Mix it well to ascertain that the vitamin C gets evenly dispersed into the emollient. When you apply this, make sure you don’t get it into sensitive or naturally dry areas as the vitamin C can have an exfoliating effect.
Now, for those of us a little more adventurous, here are some additional ideas. If you tend to have chronically dry skin or eczema, use
coconut oil as your basic lotion or cream and add the vitamin C as explained earlier and vitamin E oil (the d-alpha tocopherol).
If you tend to be oily skinned, you may want to suspend (mix) your vitamin C powder in aloe vera gel and add it to some witch hazel (two parts aloe gel to one part of witch hazel).
You can put this healthy, homemade preparation in a wide-mouth jar or in a plastic flip-top container for an easier dispense.
And, if you happen to be a fragrance freak as I am, you can get very crazy and carried away and “soup up your sunscreen” via essential oils, designer scents in oil form, etc. If you don’t want to go to all that trouble,
The Neuropathy Solution Seminar will begin promptly at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12. Only 23 seats are available, and past events filled quickly so reservations are strongly encouraged. Call or text 417-228-8229 to reserve your spot at this free but life-changing event! Healing Arts Center is located at 225 Violyn Drive in Branson, beside Savannah House Hotel.
just make sure when you select your lotion or cream that it has a pleasant scent already built in. This type of product is very cost effective and can be found at most of our “discount” type retailers with a huge selection of fragrances. The vitamin C content in the cream or lotion is supposed to protect from sunburn and ALSO save the skin from cellular damage. This was a conclusive result from a study done by Sheldon Pinnell, M.D., Chief of Dermatology, Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C. Optional added ingredients are zinc oxide, almond oil flaxseed oil and green tea extract (powder or liquid). Happy sunning!
Spaying and neutering your pets: It’s not just for population control
It is one of the most common questions, especially when talking to clients during a new puppy or kitten visit. Hey doc, when can I get my pet spayed or neutered? What we wish we got asked just as often, is what could happen if I do not get my pet spayed or neutered? In dogs, both female and male, there can be some reproductive problems that arise from them not being altered or sterilized. In female dogs, the most common
problem we see is a uterine infection called a pyometra. This occurs most commonly in middle aged dogs about four to six weeks after a heat cycle. Progesterone, the hormone known for supporting pregnancy, also primes the uterus and prepares it for ovulation and mating. So, during a heat cycle, the levels of this hormone are high. This process can decrease the immune function of the uterus. Also during heat, the bacteria from the vagina can
travel up the reproductive tract into the uterus causing a severe infection or pyometra. The uterus swells with pus and can rupture if not treated. Treatment requires emergency surgery and in most cases a dog will become septic and die if surgery is not performed quickly. Roughly 25% of dogs that are not spayed will develop this condition by age 10. Another common problem in female dogs that have not been spayed is
mammary cancer. This is similar to mammary cancer in humans, in that it is linked to estrogen; however, the incidence for dogs to get cancer is much higher in dogs than in women. After a dog has had two heat cycles, their chance of developing mammary cancer is about 25%. A female puppy spayed before her first heat cycle is basically prevented from having mammary cancer. This is worth preventing as most dogs end up with
mammary tumors that metastasize or spread to other parts of the body. It is typically both locally aggressive and metastatic. Surgery to remove the tumors, therefore, may not be curative.
Male dogs who have not been altered are also at risk of cancer, particularly testicular cancer, though prostate cancer can also occur.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is another common problem we see in
JULIE L. KING, DVM is Medical Director at Branson Veterinary Hospital
clinic about spaying and neutering pets.
• TIFFANY GRAVETT
Continued from page 2B
pen naturally. We must make it happen.” Good intentions often wither away into forgetfulness. Therefore, rather than simply taking time to
• BOB FORD
Continued from page 5B
my type of insignia.
There were plenty of aircraft on hand for creativity. Not including fighters or transports, 12,000 B-17 and 18,000 B-24 bombers were built during the war years with the B-24 holding the record for the largest number of a specific model manufactured.
male dogs who have not been neutered. Testosterone causes the prostate gland to enlarge. The prostate gland can become so large that it causes
pray, families should make time to pray together and individually. One thing I have done recently to encourage and enhance my personal devotion time is to set up a specific spot in my home with
At the beginning of World War II, Walt Disney and his creative team were on a roll. His cartoon characters had captured the imagination of America. It was no surprise when requests started coming in for Disney characters to be seen on plane noses with battle overtones.
Disney was a patriot through and through, volun-
problems with urination and/ or defecation. I have even seen dogs with herniated bowels secondary to straining to defecate, all because the prostate was pushing on the colon. In cats we also see reproductive problems when they
Teriyaki Salmon Crispy Rice Cups
BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, The Rogue Chef
SERVINGS: 6 TIME: 40 MINUTES
INGREDIENTS:
1 ⅓ C Smoked Salmon
• 2 T Mayonnaise
• 1 T Teriyaki Sauce
1 C Sushi Rice
• 1 tsp Olive Oil Black Sesame Seeds
• 1 Avocado, cubed
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Combine the sushi rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
a couch, a bookshelf, and a small table. On the shelf I have some of my favorite study Bibles, prayer journals and Christian reading material. The time I spend there has become so precious as
teering at the age of 17 to drive transports in France at the end of World War I. On the canvas of his ambulance, Walt would doodle cartoon characters. So why not let these American boys adorn their Flying Fortresses with their favorite Disney character?
Requests kept coming. Many of the Disney creators sketched the emblems them-
have not been altered. In female cats we do see pyometra and mammary cancer, just not as commonly as we see it in dogs. I will say, however, that mammary tumors in cats are almost always very aggressive, therefore, the prognosis is usually very poor. Male cats seem to be fairly resistant to reproductive problems. Intact male cats are more prone to urinary blockages. Other problems seen in male cats are not re-
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Transfer the hot rice into a bowl and spoon it into a cupcake baking pan. Press the rice down using a tablespoon.
4. Place the pan in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up the rice.
the Holy Spirit guides me into deeper paths of understanding and communion with God. I have also become increasingly aware during these times of how I am to biblically interact with others (and of
selves: 216 units wanted a Donald Duck design, 45 Pluto, 38 Goofy, 20 Dumbo, 37 Mickey Mouse and one Snow White for a medical unit. The only major Disney character not requested was poor Bambi.
“The insignia meant a lot to the men who were fighting. I had to do it. I owed it to them,” lamented Walt Disney.
lated to reproductive health but overall health, as intact male cats are notorious for fighting. This leads to the spread of viruses such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), which causes chronic respiratory illness and immune suppression.
Back to the first question. When can I have my puppy or kitten spayed or neutered? Since the primary goal is still population control, we prefer around five months of age.
5. Spray the rice with olive oil and bake at 180°C (350°F) until the rice is crispy and golden.
6. Dice the smoked salmon finely and mix it with mayonnaise and teriyaki sauce.
7. Fill the rice cups with the salmon mixture.
8. Top the rice cups with sesame seeds and avocado slices. Enjoy! GO ROGUE by substituting the regular Mayo with Sriracha Mayo. Want The Rogue Chef to make a delicious meal for you? Contact us at www. TheRogueChef.com .
how I haven’t been biblically interacting with them). This extra attention to communing with the Lord personally has overflowed into my family life in ways I never could have imagined. I pray that
Roy Williams, a noted Disney animator, designed the famed Flying Tiger insignia for the 14th Air Force fighting in China. Later he became the man behind the “mouse ears” worn on “The Mickey Mouse Club,” and by millions of baby boomers.
Teeth: Fighter pilots loved shark teeth. Both allies and axis planes had wide open
you, too, will see the benefits of choosing Godly love and commitment that faithfully declares with Joshua, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Josh. 24:15b).
mouths covering the plane’s nose with gnarly looking teeth. Axis planes didn’t seem that menacing. We had better artists!
Throughout aviation history, nose art has gone from the whimsical to intimidating, with insignia, patches and emblems giving air crews a feeling of brotherhood, normalcy and best of all, home.
This is before the pet is sexually mature so before a female dog or cat has a heat cycle. As mentioned above, this should fully prevent secondary problems such as pyometra and mammary cancer. What if you don’t have the resources financially to get your pet spayed or neutered? There are lots of programs that can help! We as veterinarians want to support you in this. The Branson area has a new spay and neuter clinic affiliated with the Humane Society. I am so excited for our community to gain this resource and I hope that people take advantage of it.
I will caution you that spay and neuter clinics may not offer all the services that your primary veterinarian does, however, so make sure you ask lots of questions when seeking an estimate as well as scheduling an appointment for surgery. Things like anesthesia monitoring and pain medication to go home are often left out at a spay and neuter clinic. Once again, the old adage of prevention is better than the cure rings true. Please be a part of the solution and not the problem. Please have your pets spayed and neutered!
• JULIE KING
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
W
hen I went to School of the Ozarks College in the early summer of ‘65, I was only 17 years old. A counselor in high school had applied for me, and in late May of that year, I was notified that I hadn’t been accepted.
If you want to talk about miracles, consider this one. In early June the registrar at S of O called and told me that five students had quit the first week. I didn’t understand what he was telling me until he said I was number five on the waiting list.
School of the Ozarks then was a college for poor kids. They gave you a job where you went to classes a half day and worked a half-day to pay the tuition and room
Outdoors with Larry Dablemont: How I learned to catch trout
and board. Here’s another miracle for you! The president, Dr. M. Graham Clark, called me into his office the second day I was there and declared that on the application where it asked what I had worked at, I listed so many jobs he suspected that either no student that ever went to school there had ever had so many jobs, or that I was the biggest liar ever on campus up to then. It wasn’t actually lying; I had just listed everything I had done for an hour or so since I was 13 years old. Like where I said I had done roofing I had really done it because Dad made me help him put a roof on a shed. My job as a commercial fisherman came down to selling a half dozen catfish illegally to Churchill Hoyt at the pool hall the year before. But that day I got the most coveted job on campus, Dr. Clark’s right-hand man. When he had to go to the airport, I drove his Lincoln Continental back home. I watched his grandsons when they swam in his pool, I took them arrowhead hunting, and I mowed his
lawn with a tractor mower. On occasion one of the half dozen girls who worked inside for Mrs. Clark would bring out some fresh-baked cookies for me to sample. I was envied all right and amongst the construction workers and the grounds crew students and the cannery workers, I wasn’t all that popular. But I still made two or three friends. One of them was so much like me he might have been a brother. In fact, he became one! In the evening of the first month, my roommate took me down to a big gravel bar and showed me how to catch trout on Lake Taneycomo. His name was Darrel Hamby, from Piedmont MO, where he still lives.
The best thing about S of O was Lake Taneycomo, full of trout and ducks. The School sat on a bluff right above it. I knew nothing about fishing anywhere but the Big Piney where I had grown up. And I had taken my rod and reel to school with me—a Shakespeare casting reel with ten-pound line. Darrel taught me about trout and how to catch them
with a spin-casting outfit and 4-pound line. It was easy fishing and no backlashes. Plus, you could cast way out there with a light treble hook and salmon eggs or cheese and catch 12- to 14-inch trout like you could catch black perch (green sunfish) back home on the Piney. Darrel had grown up on the Little Black and St. Francis rivers, and he took me back there on several occasions to fish. A few years ago, Darrel made his first fishing trip to Canada with me. And I consider that my third miracle of 1965, meeting a life-long friend and fishing partner. Before this summer ends, when it cools down some, I am heading over to fish again with my old friend. He says he thinks we might catch a big catfish or two. Wouldn’t that be miracle?
You can read all about those days at School of the Ozarks in one of my books entitled, “The Prince of Point Lookout—Life and Learning at School of the Ozarks.” I intended to give the school, now known as College of the Ozarks, 500 free copies of the book to sell. That
Or you can send $9 and $2 worth of postage stamps, and I will send you a book inscribed to you and signed by Darrel and Woody and me!
If you don’t get a few laughs out of the reading of it, I will return your money.
would give the school about $7,000 in profit to some kid out in the Ozarks like me, an education. But the school president at the time turned down the offer. If you want to read about those years I spent there and all about the times with Darrel and Woody P. Snow, just call me at 417-777-5227, and I will sell you one at half price.
River and Arkansas.
Nonresident trout anglers and their families pay that tax on just about everything that they do in Branson — retail sales, hotel bills, show and attraction tickets, etc.
from which nonresident anglers come do charge higher rates for fishing licenses, they do not have a 1/8% Conservation Sales Tax, like Missouri, which serves as a primary funding mechanism for the Department of Conservation. The state sales tax rate in Missouri is 4.225%, of which 0.125% (1/8%) is allocated for Conservation.
Here’s a suggestion, assuming the quality of trout fishing is the same on the White River in Arkansas as it is in Lake Taneycomo: raise the daily rate for a fishing
To the Ole Seagull, the nonresident trout fishers, and all those who make a living off of trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo, deserve a better hand than they are going to be dealt in 2026.
permit $1.00 per day from $9.00 to $10.00, the Nonresident Fishing Permit to $60.00 rather than the proposed $57.00 and charge $24.00 for the new Nonresident Trout Permit. That seems reasonable and keeps trout fishing on Lake Taneycomo, and other Missouri fishing, competitive with that on the White
“Seagull, do you think the quality of the trout fishing experience on Lake Taneycomo is the same as on the
White River in Arkansas?” “Surely that’s a rhetorical question!” #1 The Trout Permit is an annual permit.
That address is: Pt. Lookout, Box 22, Bolivar, MO 65613.
Darrel Hamby and I in the good old days (Photos submitted by Larry Dablemont)
CELEBRATE RECOV-
ERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits and hangups. We meet every Monday night at 6:30 p.m. at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information, call 808344-4240. See you there!
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUP meets at the Branson-Hollister Senior Center, 201 Compton Dr., Branson, the last Wednesday of every month from 9:30 - 11 a.m. For more information, call Mark Applegate at 417-9552513 or email mark.applegate@senioragemo.org.
AMERICAN LEGION
POST #220 would love to invite all of our former and current U.S. military friends to join us every Monday at 9 a.m. for coffee and pastries, with the exception of the second Monday of the month and national holidays. Come join us at the M. Graham Clark Airport in Hollister, 491 Blue Sky Ln. Monthly business meeting is the second Monday of the month, at 6 p.m., at Pizza Ranch, 1464 St. Hwy. 248, Branson. We look forward to meeting you! HOOAH!
lassifieds
GRIEF SHARE: New class for GRIEF SHARE will be beginning at the Branson United Methodist Church on Wednesday, August 27. We gather at 1 p.m. for social time with class beginning promptly at 1:30 p.m. This is a 13-week biblical based support group and is open to anyone in the community. For questions, call Peggy at 319919-1533 or the church office at 417-334-3432.
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. lunch buffet and 12-1 p.m. meeting.
HOME TO SELL OR ROOM TO RENT? Let the Globe help you get the word out. Reach thousands of readers with an ad just like this for only $22.25!
I WAS OUT WALKING, and I ran into my 80 year old friend named Smokey Bear. He was talking about the clean air. If you smell smoke look for the fire, because it may burn your house. Please don’t throw away your cigarettes outside and remember fireworks start fires. The weather is dry so don’t burn your house down and don’t burn my house either. Please pay attention.
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
RETIRED FULL CHARGE BOOKKEEPER/REALTOR looking for a part-time job. Please call Vicki if you need reliable part-time help. 620-687-1881
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-699-1635.
FOR SALE: 2016 Nissan Frontier Quad cab, V6, 4WD, AT, all power, one owner, 25k miles, excellent condition. $24,900. 724-396-6938. Clean A Title.
TO OWN AUTOS: Low down payment. NO initial taxes & license fees. NO credit check. Free 1 year warranty on motor & transmission. Rent to own your auto today! 1119 E. Hwy. 76, Branson. 417-335-5400. renttoownautosbranson.com
and
HELP WANTED: Looking for an experienced construction/remodel helper,
-
THE ROSEHOUSE, Branson’s premier “Senior Services Residence” seeks to find an “Active Senior” to serve as our “LIVE ON SITE-BACKUP HOUSE MANAGER.” This role will involve providing part-time resident concierge support for our senior residents. This will allow personal time for our small regular staff. Our selected “BACKUP” will be provided a great apartment, food, all utilities and a modest monthly salary. It will be an outstanding life choice for the right person. Check out The Rosehouse online at http://therosehouseseniorliving.com and/ or Facebook at therosehouse, or, call Lindy at 417-230-9190, or just stop by and check us out at 673 Spring Creek Rd., Branson. Some lucky “Active Senior” will be glad they did.
MR. GILBERTI’S PLACE: NOW HIRING ALL POSITIONS. Fun, working atmosphere. Come in and fill out an application. 1451 Acacia Club Rd., Hollister.
WANTED: A VETERAN with no dependents. Small apartment available for a veteran to live in Cedarcreek at GUMI CAMP for a work/ housing exchange. Must be capable to feed and care for animals among a few other tasks. A vetting process will be mandatory. Serious inquiries only. 417-559-3892
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47. Kicker’s aid 48. Pitcher’s pride 50. Decorative shrub 55. Cardiologist’s nightmare 57. “Star Trek: Voyager” actress Ryan 60. Jai ___ 61. New York city 62. Beginning on 63. Walk falteringly 64. It runs on the sidewalk? 65. Ruinous agent 66. Duped group 67. Atomic units Down 1. Jazz club attraction 2. Constellation directly above the equator 3. Prove false 4. Like an alligator’s skin 5. Bargain hunter’s desire 6. “Magnetic Fields” artist Joan 7. Idiotically wrong 8. “Bye Bye Bye” group 9. Designer Chanel 10. Cable letters 11. German article 12. Early IBM PCs 14. Work the dough 21. Visit casually
On this date in history...
1932 George Washington quarter goes into circulation
1941 The first Jeep is produced
1953 California introduces sales tax (for education)
• 1958 First class postage up to 4 cents (had been 3 cents for 26 years)
1972 First article exposing the Watergate scandal by Bernstein and Woodward is published in The Washington Post
1988 Rush Limbaugh begins his nationally syndicated radio show
1993 Fourteen-time MLB
All Star Reggie Jackson is inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY
1995 Westinghouse purchases the CBS-TV network
• 2000 First patient to receive the Jarvik 2000, the first total artificial heart that can maintain blood
22. “My Cousin Vinny” star 25. Tour of duty 26. Olympic race 27. Fashion sense
29. Crescendo followed by a decrescendo 31. Assns. 32. Smoking jacket go-with 33. Make a point 34. Golfer Palmer, to his army 35. Trim back 37. Third-party holding 39. It may be filled before it bites 40. Suggestions for girth reduction
45. Aviatrix Earhart
46. Yves St. Laurent fragrance 49. Iranian coins
51. National opener
52. Dog show entrant 53. Finely chopped, as potatoes 54. They’re a part of every century 55. Rustic flute
56. Like some basements 57. Friendly poke
58. That, in Guadalajara 59. Howard of “American Graffiti”
flow in addition to generating a pulse
• 2007 The I-35W Mississippi River Bridge spanning the Mississippi River in Minneapolis, Minnesota, collapses during evening rush hour
2021 American virologist
Dr. Anthony Fauci says “things are going to get worse” as U.S. COVID-19 cases double in ten days due to surge of Delta variant
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Barbie Friends, Family and Fun
