The metrics of marketing Branson
BY GARY J. GROMAN, Independent Journalist
Heather Hermen has been the Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB since September 2024. The Branson Globe (BG) interviewed Herman (HH) about using marketing metrics and data to market Branson. The results, in a Q&A format, are below: BG: What experience do you have in marketing tourism destinations, and for how long have you been doing it?
HH: I’ve been in the tourism industry for over 20 years and have owned Front Burner Media, a full-service marketing and public relations agency focusing on destination management and marketing, for the last 14 years.
BG: What metrics do you use to evaluate destination marketing performance?
HH: KPIs, goals and objectives in a strategic plan are standard for destination marketing. From there, we divide that out into items that come from the STR re-
port, Smith Travel Research, around average daily rate, booking windows and then other data metrics that come in from data platforms like Datafy, Adara, Arrivalist, Placer.AI, and more. Data-driven decision-making is the key to destination marketing; these tools help us gather the proper metrics and show return on investment with tax dollars.
BG: What are some of the KPIs that you evaluate?
HH: Visitation activity increases or decreases, and increases in tax dollars, website activity, room occupancy, average daily rate and booking window, among others, are key indicators that we and other destinations follow.
BG: What other metrics do you use?
HH: Credit card, spending, how long people are staying in market, and how much people are spending per household. We’re following our digital ads from when they were served on a phone, computer, or mobile device to when they come
into the market to see how effective our ads are and the return on investment [ROI].
BG: That’s what they’re used for?
HH: They provide data that helps us know how much credit card spending is, how long they’re staying, where they’re staying, where they’re shopping, what they’re doing so that we can then build plans all around that.
BG: Digital media advertising handles most of that, but aren’t we also marketing using TV?
HH: Yes, we advertise on both Traditional TV and Connected TV.
BG: Didn’t know there were two different types of TV. Isn’t TV just TV?
HH: No. “Traditional TV” is broadcast TV, including cable, satellite and antenna reception, where the person watching sees a scheduled TV program at the actual broadcast time.
“Connected TV” puts the same content and more on your TV using the internet to deliver the content to a person’s TV, smart phone, SEE METRICS, PAGE 4A
C of O hosts 2025 First Responder Day
Submitted to Branson Globe College of the Ozarks honored the unwavering dedication and bravery of local first responders during its 2025 First Responder Appreciation Day recently. The event, held on the College campus, welcomed first responders, students and members of the public to join in a heartfelt tribute.
The event served as a public expression of gratitude for the daily sacrifices of federal, state and local law enforcement officers, correction officers, firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical services personnel, 911 dispatchers, probation and parole officers, park rangers, game wardens and wildlife officers. The College also honored the families who stand behind these individuals in support.
The morning began with a stirring procession of emergency vehicles entering through the main gates
of campus. In parade-like fashion, the convoy traveled down Opportunity Avenue, passed the waters of Lake Honor, and concluded at the Hook Activities Center. Along the route, students, faculty and campus guests lined the sidewalks waving flags and applauding in appreciation.
The formal program, held inside the Hook Activities Center, featured Branson Fire Chief and College of the Ozarks alumnus Ted Martin as the keynote speaker. Additional remarks were given by Dr. Marci Linson, Vice President of Vocational Activities and Dean of Administration, who emphasized the importance of honoring those who serve and uphold peace in our communities.
Ceremonial elements included the Presentation of Colors by the Southwest Missouri Fire Color Guard, with support from the Col-
Mayor, aldermen sworn in
for another term
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Mayor Larry Milton was sworn in and took the oath of office for another term as Mayor of Branson during the most recent city council meeting.
Milton, who ran unopposed, was named Mayor again following the April election. Also running unopposed and retaining their seats on the board of aldermen were Alderman Clay Cooper, Alderman Artie Lucas and Alderwoman Ruth
Denham.
Aldermen Cooper, representing Ward 1, and Lucas, Ward 2, were also sworn in for another term on the city council during the recent meeting. Ruth Denham, representing Ward 3, will be sworn in at a future meeting of the board of aldermen.
Following the swearing in ceremony, Alderman Clay Cooper was unanimously voted in as Acting President of the Board of Aldermen.
The College presents the 2025 First Responder Award to Kimberling City Police Department Officer Dustin Mayden, recognizing his exceptional service and commitment to duty. (Photo courtesy of College of the Ozarks)
Milton takes oath of office (Photo via Facebook)
Youth
Fishing Derby: Fishing fun for kids on Sunday, May 4
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
An exciting event for kids is set for this weekend. The Youth Fishing Derby will be held on Sunday, May 4, at Eiserman Park, adjacent to the Community Center in Branson.
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
and more. Items for sale are
Registration is 12:30 p.m. for children ages three - seven and 1:30 p.m. for ages eight through 14. Registra-
donated by members of the Shepherd of the Hills Garden Club and local businesses.
The plant sale is set for Saturday, May 3, 8 a.m. to noon, in the parking lot of
tion is held the day of the event at the Eiserman Park Pavilion. Registration is limited to 75 participants.
the Apple Tree Mall, 1830 West 76 Country Boulevard. Garden Club Members, including some Master Gardeners, will be on hand during the sale to answer questions and
Each age group will fish separately. Fish will be weighed and prizes given in each group.
The tournament is hosted by the Branson Daybreakers Rotary Club. Admission is just $2 per child. For more information, call 417-335-2368.
offer expert advice on your gardening needs, including pest control, plant care and design.
The Shepherd of the Hills Garden Club has a 70-yearhistory of giving back to the
Branson community. Proceeds from this sale will allow them to continue this tradition, by supporting local beautification projects and promoting environmental stewardship.
Monthlong fundraising event to hold kickoff party on Saturday
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A popular sports bar is holding a fun event to raise funds for cancer research.
Saints City Sports Bar and Grille is the site of Pour for the Cure this May. The event, to raise money for brain cancer research, takes place the entire month of May, beginning with a kickoff party on May 3.
Show-Me a Cure is the Missouri Chapter of the Cure Starts Now. The organization is teaming up with Saints City to raise money for research on childhood
brain cancer, in honor of Maeleigh, daughter of Dior and Derick Toynton, Directors of Show-Me a Cure.
The kickoff party begins at 5 p.m. on May 3, with spe-
cials on Blueberry Lavender Lemonade, Jello Shots and chips and salsa. The evening will also feature raffles for exclusive merchandise, courtesy of Saints City.
Saints
and
in Branson. Show your support for brain cancer research at Pour for the Cure this Saturday.
Branson Waves Youth Swim Team now registering for 2025
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Branson Parks & Recreation Department is excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Branson Waves Swim Team, a competitive summer swim program for youth ages four to 18 (participants must be 4
years old by May 1, 2025).
The Branson Waves Swim Team is a perfect opportunity for young swimmers to stay active, improve their technique, and participate in fun, friendly competition. The program focuses on stroke development, endurance
training and team building— all while creating a positive, supportive environment.
Swimmers will compete in the Southwest Missouri Summer Swim League, joining other community pools and swim teams from the Springfield area throughout
the summer. Weeknight practices begin May 19 from 6 to 7:15 p.m., with additional weekday morning practices from 7:30 to 9:30 starting May 27. Swim meet dates will be announced soon.
The registration fee is $85 per swimmer or $80 for Bran-
son residents, with a $5 sibling discount and a $10 late fee for any registrations received after the May 16 deadline. A mandatory parent meet
Forsyth Farmers’ Market opens May 3; gardens coming soon
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
Spring is in full bloom, and with it the opportunity to shop area farmers’ markets, including the Forsyth Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market located at 11048 E. St. Hwy. 76 in Forsyth. The Market is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, starting May 3 and continuing through the second Saturday in December.
Forsyth Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market hosts over 60 vendors selling produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts; there is often live music as well. And there’s great news—the new bathrooms will be ready! Market coordinators are grateful for project funding provided through the Taney County Commission and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).
As a project of the Forsyth Senior Friendship Center, the Market helps provide funds for valuable services and connection for area senior citizens. Another way to help benefit the Senior Center is by shopping the Forsyth Senior Thrift and Furniture Store, located at 14974 U.S. Hwy. 160, Suite 12, in the White River Plaza Center in Forsyth. The store is open
• FIRST RESPONDERS
Continued from page 1A
lege’s Military Science Color Guard. The School of the Ozarks Choir performed the National Anthem, and Natalie Fisher—a senior at School of the Ozarks and daughter of a first responder — led the Pledge of Allegiance. Dr.
from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Also, thanks to the Taney County Commission using ARPA funding, along with a grant from White River Valley Electric Cooperative Corporation, the Forsyth Senior Friendship Community Garden is almost ready! Check out this community garden located at 11048 E. St. Hwy.
Justin Carswell, Vice President of Christian Ministries and Dean of the Chapel, offered the invocation.
76, adjacent to the Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market, where you can rent a raised bed, grow your own fresh, healthy produce, and learn gardening skills in a welcoming environment. What a great way to connect with others and get some fresh air and exercise! Garden beds will rent for just $25, with 15-in. and 30in. heights available. Sign up now at the Market, and watch
As part of the ceremony, the College presented the 2025 First Responder Award to Kimberling City Police Department Officer Dustin Mayden, recognizing his exceptional service and commitment to duty. Mayden’s work reflects the five pillars of the College’s mission: academic, vocational, Christian, patriotic and cultural.
for news about the official opening soon. Stay up to date by stopping by the Market and chatting with organizers; or visit the Facebook pages for Forsyth Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market, Forsyth Senior Friendship Community Garden, or Forsyth Senior Thrift & Furniture Store. For more information, including Market vendor information, call 417-844-2113.
A reception followed the program, allowing guests and campus members to gather for refreshments and fellowship. The event reflected College of the Ozarks’ patriotic mission and continued commitment to honoring those who serve — not only through military appreciation, but through recognition of first responders whose service makes daily life possible.
City Bar
Grille is located at 3265 Falls, Parkway, Suite Z
Branson entertainer hopes song will help others
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A Branson entertainer is sharing her story in the form of a song, in hopes of encouraging others.
Jasmine Monteleon is a gifted singer and songwriter. The daughter of Doug and Cheryl Gabriel, Jasmine is an integral part of the family’s music show, performing alongside her parents and brothers. As a young child, Jasmine had hopes of growing up to become an entertainer. Jasmine’s ultimate dream, however, was to be a mom. When Jasmine married the love of her life, Nick, in 2020, her dream was one step closer to becoming a reality. However, things didn’t work out the way Jasmine had hoped.
“In 2022, my husband and I lost two precious babies. It was the darkest, most trying year of our entire lives,” Jasmine explained. “I, personally, have never been through something so emotionally and physically painful. My heart longed for a little one to love and raise, and so I didn’t understand why this kept happening to me.”
While Jasmine and Nick are extremely strong in their faith, they began to have some doubts.
Said Jasmine, “I’d often get in my head and think maybe I wasn’t meant to
be a mom. I remember being on my knees so many nights, just begging God to hear me – begging God to bless us with a beautiful miracle baby.”
“In March of 2024, He answered those prayers in His perfect timing, and we welcomed our beautiful rainbow baby girl,” Jasmine shared. “Babies born after loss are called Rainbow Babies. I always knew what that term meant, but after having one of my own, I now feel that term to the core. My daughter is exactly that, a beautiful rainbow after the longest and darkest storm of infertility and loss.”
It was this story, the joy that radiates from her precious baby and God’s miracle-working power that led Jasmine to write a very personal and touching song entitled “The Rainbow (Halo’s Song).”
“My desire for this song is, first and foremost, for my daughter to know just how amazing God is and how He made a miracle in her. She is living proof that God’s plans are always perfect and bigger and better than what we can even fathom. God used the blessing of her to teach me a lot,” noted Jasmine.
“I learned that waiting is good, that there’s always a reason for trials in life, and that even when it feels like
you have nothing left, pour your heart out to Jesus. He is the only true source of peace and He is always with you. You’re never alone.”
Jasmine continued, “The second desire I have for this song is to touch hearts and bring hope to those who have walked –or are currently walking – through the same trials I walked through. I believe a huge reason we all experience similar trials in life is so that we can help others through it. I had several incredible women who experienced loss help me through my own trials and it helped me so much. I would like to do the same for someone else. I pray this song glorifies God’s goodness and inspires others to keep the faith and keep holding on.”
Jasmine released “The Rainbow (Halo’s Song)” on April 10, just in time for National Infertility Awareness Week, which was April 2127, a week that holds a special place in Jasmine’s heart.
“I am missing my angel babies, but forever grateful that their beautiful sister is here with me, earth-side,” said Jasmine. “She is such a gift! If you are someone in the thick of the storm right now, please know you are not alone. I encourage you to find community and
open up about it. Remember that you may not know the ‘why’ right now, but someday you will. My ‘why’ was waking up at 4 a.m. to pray with a friend who was in the midst of a really difficult miscarriage, being about to tell her exactly what to expect and comfort her in the process. Knowing I could offer even a little bit of ease to her heartache warmed my heart a lot. I’m so happy I could help her. I wouldn’t have been able to do that if I had not experienced what I did. She just welcomed a beautiful Rainbow Baby boy last year, too. Our God is mighty! And he’s not done writing your story. Please do not lose hope!”
“The Rainbow (Halo’s Song)” is available for download on all streaming platforms, such as Apple Music, YouTube and Spotify. You can also watch a personal music video with photos marking Jasmine and Nick’s journey to their daughter on the Doug Gabriel Show Facebook and Instagram pages.
The lyrics to the chorus of “The Rainbow (Halo’s Song)” are:
The rain will pour, the storms will strike
But beyond the clouds is worth the fight
To see that whoa,
Spring event to celebrate mothers at Tanger May 2
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Tanger Outlets is celebrating Mother’s Day with a Spring in Bloom event.
On May 2, Tanger Outlets Branson invites all mothers—and all of the women in the community—to be celebrated in style. In the spirit of the season, women are invited to participate in this exciting event that
includes special discounts and giveaways. Stores such as Columbia, Crocs, J Crew and Under Armour will offer special discounts of 15% - 25% off of their regular low prices. The Spring in Bloom celebration will also offer some helpful tips for a perfect and unique shopping experience, showcasing the latest in beauty and accessories. All women attending will also receive a beautiful bag from The Cosmetic Company, in honor of Mother’s Day. The Spring in Bloom
event is set for Friday, May 2, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tanger Outlets Branson, 300 Tanger Boulevard. The event is free of charge and the public is invited to attend.
BARNEY
DWAYNE - Male Boxer Mix - DOB:
Dwayne is
The mighty work of his rainbow. And out of all the rainbows in the sky that God made for me to view There’s not one brighter,
more perfect
Jasmine Monteleon with husband Nick and their daughter Halo (Photo submitted)
Reader’s Corner: A skill worth resurrecting
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
The topic of handwriting has come up in several recent settings, in person and via educational newsletters, frequently among adults who practiced cursive under the tutelage of strict teachers in third or fourth grade. Some have expressed sadness that with increased use of technology and keyboards at school, handwriting seems to be a lost art. Last year, I sold my dad’s old car to a teenager, a pleasant young man who had
worked hard to save up the funds. He was delighted to have his own wheels; but I was shocked when, watching me sign the title over to him, he said somewhat wistfully, “I wish I had a signature.”
What???
Noticing my surprise, he explained that he had very little training in cursive during elementary school, and in high school, “signing” things was usually done by simply clicking a box. Even his printing on the title was a little rough. Not only does the lack
of handwriting training deprive young people of their own unique signature, but the damage may also go deeper. I’ve previously referred to research done by a former supervisor at a community college remedial language lab. His master’s degree focus was in neuropathway development, and in the lab, students were not simply given printed worksheets to mark needed punctuation, capital letters, etc.—rather, they were to hand-copy the entire paragraph, inserting those items,
because the instructor’s research had shown that handwriting affected retention.
A recent article published by “The Learning Mind” listed multiple other benefits, including an extra spark of creativity generated by the fluid arm/hand movement of cursive. This is particularly interesting when considering that many famous authors, including J.K. Rowling and others, wrote their manuscripts by hand, even after typewriters and computers were readily available.
Also interesting is that “Stronger Memory,” featured in this Globe issue, lists handwriting as one of three key activities that help restore cognitive function in senior adults. Think about that—if it restores cognitive function in people who learned it as children, what may be happening to the cognitive abilities of children who aren’t taught the skill in the first place? While there are obviously many helpful advantages to the digital age, forsaking handwriting is not one of them.
Why not grab a packet of note cards at the dollar store and resurrect the habit of handwritten notes just to keep in touch? Or join me in keeping a notebook handy during personal devotions or at church. If your kids or grandkids are not taught cursive at school, buy or make a workbook and teach them— then read a book aloud together and have them write their thoughts about it. You’ll benefit; they’ll benefit. Don’t let handwriting become a lost art!
Local coffee shop offering Mother’s Day weekend rib sale fundraiser to support veterans
Submitted to Branson Globe
K’s Koffee in Branson West will be offering racks of ribs for your Mother’s Day dinner to support the local chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation. On Saturday, May 10, dry rubbed, smoked racks of ribs will be offered for sale for $25 with proceeds going to Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks (QOVO). Volunteer smoker, Kelly Chastain will have ribs wrapped and ready for pick up from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 18020 Hwy. Business 13. Samples will also be available.
K’s Koffee is no stranger to supporting causes and people in need across the Ozarks. Over the years this family-owned business has sponsored rat races for charity, given to locals in need, the emergency food bank, Christmas toys for children and now are working with QOVO to honor local veterans for their May charity project.
Owner Christy Sanderson says that “we support the community and the community supports us.” When an opportunity was presented
to be involved with providing quilts for veterans, the Sanderson family, including Christy, husband Steve and daughter Makayla were ready for action. When asked why Quilts of Valor, Christy shared that when a volunteer with their charity projects, Kelly Bade, was honored with a Quilt of Valor® and they saw the veteran’s response to his quilt, they wanted to be a part of this work. Christy shared that many times veterans “were not recognized when they should
of been…everyone needs to know they are not alone.”
In addition to the public’s opportunity to support QOVO by purchasing ribs on the 10th, four local veterans will be honored with quilts at the family-owned business on May 7 at a special presentation.
K’s Koffee has been in Branson West for nine years and is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. serving coffees, teas and fresh baked items. Visitors are encouraged to use the
location as a location for reading, studying or getting to know their neighbors. A patron that was in the shop shared why K’s is so special.
“You feel like family when you walk in …. and the coffee is great.” It’s easy to see why K’s is considered the Communities’ Coffee Shop.
A Quilt of Valor® (QOV) is a quality, handmade quilt that is machine or hand quilted. It is awarded to a service member or veteran as an expression of our deepest gratitude for their
unwavering service to our nation. These quilts are awarded (it is not a gift) and it must be recorded with the Quilts of Valor Foundation. The quilt says unequivocally, “Thank you for your service, sacrifice and valor in serving our nation.” All materials for these quilts are dependent on donations so Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks is appreciative of K’s offering to sponsor this fundraiser to support creation of quilts for local veterans.
Nearby Camp Barnabas in need of volunteers for cleanup after storm
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Camp Barnabas, a summer camp for children with special abilities and chronic illnesses, was damaged by tornadoes during Tuesday’s storms.
The camp, located in Purdy, MO, in the southwest part of the state, is a sister-ministry to Branson’s Barnabas Prep, and is well known by many Branson area residents who support
the unique facility. Camp Barnabas was opened in 1994 by founders Paul and Cyndy Teas. The Camp Barnabas organization has grown over the years, but remains a place of hope and
possibilities and an opportunity to provide individuals with a unique Christian camp experience.
During Tuesday morning’s storms, many of the camp’s cabins were damaged and trees uprooted when a tornado struck the camp.
“By God’s protection, no one was injured, but the cleanup ahead is extensive,” said a camp representative. “In just one month, our campers with disabilities and chronic illnesses will arrive for the summer of a lifetime. We are commit-
ted to opening camp, but we can’t do it without your help.”
Camp Barnabas is asking for volunteers to help with tree and debris removal and repair on cabins and throughout the property. They are in need of helping hands, skilled labor, chainsaws, trailers and more.
Cleanup at Camp Barnabas will begin immediately and will continue until the property is back in shape.
Churches, groups and organizations, and individuals are encouraged to lend a helping hand. To volunteer, or for more information, contact Cody Porter, Facilities Director at Camp Barnabas, via phone 417499-7687 or email cody@ campbarnabas.org. If you are unable to volunteer, but would like to support the cleanup effort, donations can be made online at campbarnabas.org/give. Said the camp representative, “We are so thankful for God’s protection today, and we’re trusting Him to provide through the hands and hearts of our community.”
MoDOT urges drivers to ‘Work with Us’
Submitted to Branson Globe
As a historic construction season ramps up in Missouri, the Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to “work with us” by making safe and responsible driving choices behind the wheel.
In 2024, 23 people were killed in Missouri work zone crashes. Distracted
driving contributed to at least four of those fatalities as well as more than 350 work zone crashes overall.
“On any given day on Missouri’s roadways this construction season, you can expect to see between 8001,000 active work zones,”
said State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Jon Nelson. “ Stay alert and slow down to keep workers safe.” It’s not just a courtesy to slow down and move over for these work zones—it’s the law. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, if safe to do so, when approaching MoDOT vehicles, law enforcement vehicles and any other emergency vehicle with lights flashing. If drivers can’t change lanes safely, they must slow down as they pass the emergency vehicles. Drivers should be aware of changing traffic conditions, observe warning signs and merge before reaching lane closures.
While distracted driving remains a concern in Missouri, the state’s recently passed cell phone law represents a positive step forward. “Since passage of the Siddens Bening Hands-Free law here in Missouri, we’ve seen progress,” said Nelson. Visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at www. traveler.modot.org and find out where work zones are.
• METRICS Continued from page 1A
smart application, or another connected TV device such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, etc., on demand.
BG: What’s the difference between them, from a marketing point of view?
HH: There’s not much we can do regarding Traditional TV except know the commercial aired at this time and on this channel. With Connected TV, you can tell exactly who saw it, when and where they saw it. We can also tell if a viewer ever visits our website; if they ever come here, we know that.
BG: Of the two, which is the more effective marketing tool and why?
HH: Connected TV because it provides more data to determine how many viewers see it and how they react to it.
Summer holidays are coming up: Fly the flag proudly – and correctly
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
The approach of summer holidays inspires many Americans, who share the Branson area values of faith, family and flag, to display the U.S. flag at their home, business, or at public areas such as cemeteries and churches. When doing so, it’s worth taking a few minutes to review basic pointers for flying the Stars and Stripes correctly and with honor.
Since veterans have a significant investment of time and personal sacrifice in defending the values represented by the American flag, we reached out to a few area veterans for their thoughts about displaying the flag. For sever-
al, the condition of the flag is a big concern, with the public display of a worn, tattered, or stained flag particularly disturbing. Flags that have served their useful life should be properly retired, preferably by burning in a discreet or solemn ceremony to avoid being misconstrued as a protest. Veterans’ organizations or Scout troops sometimes hold such ceremonies.
When it is time to replace the flag, the American Legion has a helpful video available at https:// emblem.legion.org, with guidance on choosing the appropriate size, construction type and material for your setting.
Another important point of consideration has to do
with the place of ceremonial honor and the phrase “the flag’s own right.” At a church or public event, the U.S. flag should be in the place of honor to the speaker’s right—which would be the observer’s left. Any other flags or pennants should be to the U.S. flag’s left, with nothing to the flag’s right. Local veteran “Mac” McAllister, USN Ret., shared that he sees this problem frequently when folks display the flag on a vehicle or boat and fail to consider the “flag’s own right” in their placement.
Another recent concern, mentioned by one veteran, has been the display of a flag with the union (blue field of stars) down. The
U.S. Flag Code specifies the union should be displayed in the up position, except as a signal of dire distress involving extreme danger to life and property. Using the down position to express political dissatisfaction can be quite triggering to veterans who have actually had to use that signal for its intended purpose.
In a grouping of flagpoles, the U.S. flag should be on the highest pole. In a three-flag grouping including a state flag and a business or other flag, the appropriate position for the U.S. flag is on the center pole if that is highest, and to its own right if poles are the same size. No other flag in a grouping should
be larger than the U.S. flag. When multiple flags are on the same pole, the U.S. flag must be the highest, the only exception being an official church pennant flown above the U.S. flag during church services for Navy personnel being conducted by a Naval chaplain on a ship at sea.
Around Memorial Day, flags are frequently used at cemeteries. It is important to remember that the U.S. Flag Code forbids using the flag for general decoration. If flags are placed to honor the graves of veterans, respect can be shown by using a support stake or piece of PVC pipe to make sure the flag does not touch the ground or become muddied during inclement
weather. We at the Globe hope this brief overview is helpful for those planning summer celebrations. For specific situations or concerns not mentioned here, taking time to consult the U.S. Flag Code can help avoid unintentional violations. The Code is easily available at several websites including https://us-flag. net/code/ and https://www. military.com/flag-day/usflag-code.html, and the American Legion shares a condensed Q & A version at https://emblem.legion. org. Enjoy your celebrations, as we celebrate our freedoms as Americans and those have served to defend them.
Elevate Entrepreneurs program celebrates spring graduating class
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS, Staff Writer
On Tuesday, April 22, proud families and friends gathered with Elevate Branson staff and volunteers to celebrate the spring graduating class of the Elevate Entrepreneurs program. The program is designed for individuals who desire to own a small for-profit business, providing tools to help them succeed, preparing for realities and challenges so those don’t become pitfalls or barriers to success.
The following students completed the class and are
preparing to serve the community in their businesses:
Chris Alderton, Everyday Home Repair LLC, Handyman
• Bruce Giggers, CForth, E-Commerce retail
Haley House, Nature Muhyi Mei, Natural remedy products
• Gustavo Marquez, Gustavo el Fotografo, Photography
• Annette Morris, Team Elite, Hospitality employee supplier
Jaime Segura, HealthBody, Wellness & fitness
center
• Julio Tamez, Mr. Skky Event, Social event network
Jeffrey Vick, Shine On Shoe Shine, Shoe shining
• John Williams, The Spicy Gringo, Tacos & handmade salsas
Elevate Entrepreneurs is a 12-week course, three hours per week in class and an hour a week outside of class focused on business work—some might call it homework, but it’s taking the classroom knowledge and applying it to the stu-
dent’s individual business. This work consists of things business owners need to do but often don’t get around to consciously doing—for example, after learning about pricing strategies, students are asked to research possible competitors and look at their pricing, then decide on initial pricing and make revenue projections.
Class members also benefit from the expertise of area professionals, such as an accountant, a banker, a lawyer, and an insurance
company representative
Class session topics include business idea feasibility, basic business cycle, profit & loss statements, basic bookkeeping, budgeting, and cash flow management
Elevate Entrepreneurs partners with the Missouri Small Business Development Center, who helps connect our entrepreneurs with resources, and with City on a Hill property management who helps connect graduates with owners who can use their services.
By helping people
Lightspeed Electrical: Ding Dong Dud
W
hen you think about circuits and home wiring, you usually think about lights and appliances. Today’s article is about doorbells, because they are usually the “forgotten” electrical device.
The old school style doorbells are powered by a regular electrical circuit, and if your doorbell is not “dinging” at all, you should check the breaker just like you do with any other circuit in your home. Sometimes, a door bell will “ding” and not “dong” (or release). This could sound like a buzzing or humming, and it happens because the contactor gets stuck. This can be a form of arcing
when the electrical current is keeping that device stuck in one position. Doorbells and their circuits are devices that electricians work on all the time. Sometimes it just requires a new transformer, and sometimes a new chime kit.
Camera style doorbells like RING are also wired in to an existing doorbell system; they must be connected to functional doorbell wires. Occasionally, RING doorbells have compatibility issues with the existing doorbell system.
If you are experiencing doorbell issues, or would like to upgrade to a camera style doorbell
achieve their business dreams, Elevate Entrepreneurs is part of the overall Elevate Branson mission of helping community neighbors reach their full potential. The next Elevate Entrepreneurs class will start right after Labor Day on September 2, but potential business owners or those wanting to get started improving their skills can reach out to Chris.Hunter@ ElevateBranson.org, and he can begin connecting you with resources to start and grow your business.
like RING, the team at Lightspeed Electrical can help. Phone us at 417-239-5050.
Branson School District QR codes for Chalk Talk, social media
April 2025 Pirate Proud Recipient: Emery Gregory
This month’s Pirate Proud presentation was extra special as we celebrated Bus Driver Appreciation Day, a birthday and one outstanding member of our Pirate family - all in one! Please join us in honoring Emery Gregory, who has been a dedicated bus driver in our district for the past six years. Nominated by administrators and colleagues, Emery is known for being dependable, patient, kind and truly passionate about his work.
Only one more Pirate will be honored this school year! Who do you nominate? Pirate Proud nomination form: https://bit.ly/3AytT1S
Branson Schools: Student, staff and community spotlight
Branson High School students recently brought home top honors after competing in this year’s Missouri Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference. FBLA is the largest co-curricular business organization in the country, with over 5,000 attending the State Conference. Two teams from Branson High School placed in the top ten in their respective competition areas at this year’s event: Sayoni Patel & Mirian Gomez took sixth place in Introduction to Business Presentation; Trevlyn Eilers and Waylon Hall took seventh place in Digital Video Production.
Branson Schools hosted over 650 attendees for an evening of cultural celebration at the Festival of Nations. Families enjoyed delicious international foods, interactive country displays, bounce houses and amazing live performances. We were also proud to recognize recipients of the Pathway to Biliteracy Award. This program began in 2021 and is designed to honor kindergarten through eighth grade students who are developing proficiency in another language alongside English. In its fifth year, 383 multilingual students were recognized, making a powerful impact in our schools and community.
The Future Farmers of America (FFA) were honored at the 2025 Area 12 Banquet. Several members received individual honors for their contest and competition work this school year. FFA also hosted a very successful greenhouse
sale this spring on the Branson High School campus. Congratulations to the Bingchilling Burritos Youth Coding Team from Cedar Ridge Intermediate on achieving post-season recognition in the Technical Merit category! Final round results will be posted soon on the Youth Coding League website: https://www.youthcodingleague.com/ playoffs
College of the Ozarks Concert Band to perform spring concert Friday, May 2
The College of the Ozarks Concert Band will perform the spring concert on Friday, May 2, at 7:30 p.m. in the Jones Auditorium. The performance is open to students, faculty, staff and the public. The program will include: “Mambo,” by Leonard Bernstein/arr. Michael Sweeney; “Diversion,” by Bernhard Heiden; “Rhapsody for Euphonium and Concert Band,” by James Curnow; “Silverado,” by Bruce Broughton/arr. Randol Bass; “Abide With Me,” by William Monk, Henry Lyte/arr. Jay Dawson; “Rikudim-Four Israeli Folk Dances for Band,” by Jan Van der Roost; “Colossus of Columbia,” by Russell Alexander/arr. Glenn Cliffe Bainum; “The Golden Age of Broadway,” by Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II/arr. John Moss.
College of the Ozarks President Brad Johnson named to Springfield Business Journal’s 2025 Class of Men of the Year
College of the Ozarks is proud to announce that its president, Dr. Brad Johnson, has been named one of Springfield Business Journal’s 2025 Men of the Year, an annual award honoring men across southwest Missouri who demonstrate outstanding leadership and impact in their communities and professions.
Johnson was honored at the recognition event hosted by the Springfield Business Journal on April 24, 2025.
Hollister Community Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-9
Give a shoutout to a teacher or group of teachers on social media and tag the school district. You can post on your social media, tag the Hollister School District and the teacher’s building, and include the hashtags #HollisterTigers #HeartofHollister
Hollister High School students earn prestigious spot in Missouri All-State Show Choir
Hollister High School is
proud to announce that two students, Morgan Carlson and Addison White, have been selected to participate in the 2025 Missouri All-State Show Choir, a highly competitive and prestigious event. The event will take place July 20 through 23 at the University Plaza Hotel in Springfield, MO, culminating in a performance at the convention center on the final evening.
Morgan Carlson and Addison White, both seniors, were chosen for their exceptional vocal abilities, earning a spot among the top 15 students in their vocal parts across the state. This achievement represents a remarkable level of skill and dedication, and their selection reflects their hard work and passion for music.
Additionally, Kate Heard, a fellow student, was named the second alternate for the event, ranking 17th in the state. Her standing as one of the top 17 vocalists in Missouri is a significant honor.
Finalists announced for Reeds Spring School District Awards
Six teachers and seven non-teaching staff members have been announced as finalists for the Reeds Spring School District’s Excellence Awards.
Teacher of the Year nominees are:
Primary School – Kim Voelker
Elementary School – Brian Kelley
Intermediate School – Renee Waters
Middle School – Shelby Cook
High School – Damon Asbill
Table Rock Career Center – Jock Thompson
Staff Member of the Year nominees are:
Primary School – Debbie Stowell
Elementary School – Cheryl Huff
Intermediate School – Carrie Payne
Middle School – Brenda Miller
High School – Jay Suggs
Table Rock Career Center – Dusty Borgman
Transportation - Carlos Haynes
The winners will be announced at the district’s Excellence Awards Banquet on Saturday, May 3.
Reeds Spring School Board Members sworn in The two candidates re-elected to the Reeds Spring School Board were sworn into office on April 22. Gordon Weathers and Perry Phillips will serve three-year terms. The board chose Phillips to serve as president. Lisa Boyd will remain board vice-president.
Local students headed to international competition Two high school students from the Ozarks will soon find out how they stack up against students from around the globe.
Jacob Coones of Galena and Braiden Cecil of Spokane earned second place in the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) competition at the Missouri state level. Their strong performance qualifies them to compete at the HOSA International Leadership Conference, which brings together top students from around the world. Coones and Cecil are part of the EMT program at Table Rock Career Center.
See all the pics at BransonGlobe. com!
RUTH U. GRUENEICH, 94, ROCK RAPIDS, IA
Obituary courtesy of Jurrens Funeral Home, Rock Rapids, Iowa; submitted by John Fullerton Ruth Grueneich, age 94, of Rock Rapids, Iowa, died Wednesday April 23, 2025, at Lyon Specialty Care in Rock Rapids.
Funeral service was Monday, April 28, 2025, at Faith Baptist Church in Rock Rapids. Burial followed at Riverview Cemetery in Rock Rapids. Ruth Ursula Grueneich was
born in Burstall, Saskatchewan, Canada, the daughter of Gustav and Wilhelmina (Zeitner) Strauss. She was raised on a family farm near Springside, Saskatchewan, and attended country school. She loved spending time with her dad as she helped on the family farm. After her education she worked as a housekeeper and nanny for area families. She later worked as a cook
at the CTI Christian Training Institute in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It was there while working she met and married Reuben Grueneich on July 24, 1954. The young couple set out on their lives together to raise a family and serve the Lord.
Reuben also served Rosenfeldt Baptist Church. They then moved their family to Startup, Washington.
The next call was to Linton, ND, where they remained for five years after which their ministry was called to Rock Rapids, and they served at Rock Rapids Baptist Church. While in Rock Rapids, in addition to serving the church, she prepared meals for Dinner Date and Lyon Manor Nursing Home. In 1993 they once again were called to serve at a new location, Village Creek Bible Camp, and Ruth served as the main cook. While serving at camp, Reuben was pastor at Center Baptist in Lansing, IA. Reuben and Ruth were forced into retirement after a terrible automobile accident they experienced in 2004.
Reuben and Ruth moved to Sioux Falls, SD, where he finished his education and graduated from the North American Baptist Seminary in 1959. Reuben served many churches over the years, with Ruth by his side. The first was a small country church near Dell Rapids, SD, while Reuben was still in seminary. After four years of service to that church they moved to Golden Prairie, Saskatchewan, Canada where another congregation was waiting. After serving at Golden Prairie for four years, they then moved their family to Martin, ND, where they served for six years; the last years there
On December 28, 2018, Ruth’s husband of 64 years Reuben, died. Ruth continued living with
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her sons in Branson, MO, where they owned and operated Grandma Ruth’s Cinnamon Rolls. Ruth’s family recipe made this a popular Branson destination for several years. Ruth recently entered Sibley Specialty Care in Sibley, Iowa, and then in April she moved to Lyon Specialty Care in Rock Rapids, where she remained until Wednesday April 23, 2025, at the age of 94. Ruth loved to cook and prepare meals for family and her church family. She was a fierce prayer warrior and lived her life anchored in faith. She loved her family with her whole being. Ruth’s family will remember her as a strong woman of faith who devoted her life serving the Lord and supporting her husband and family. She is survived by her three children, Shari (Keith) Kooiker of Rock Rapids, IA; Daniel and Rodney Grueneich, both of Branson, MO; grandchildren Kara (Doug) Rigsby and their three children of Gillette, WY; Kendra (Ross) Leonard and their two children of Sioux Falls, SD; Kayla (Ryan) Peters and their two children of Harrisburg, SD; two great-great grandchildren; and other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother and her husband.
Q: What is Give 5 Branson?
A: Give 5 is a program that matches active retirees with nonprofits that utilize volunteer time and talent to serve critical needs in the Branson/Tri-Lakes area.
Q: Who gives five of what?
A: First, Give 5 class participants learn about several local agencies and nonprofits, tour their facilities, meet their teams, and understand how they utilize volunteers to further their mission. After four classes, participants are invited to choose a cause to support with five hours per month of their volunteer time and talent.
Q: Are the nonprofits local agencies?
A: Yes! Retirees who join a class in Taney or Stone County will visit and learn about nonprofits in Taney and Stone Counties.
Q: What are the requirements to join a Give 5 session in our area?
A: A willingness to learn and help is all that’s required. Register in advance for a session when you can attend at least three of the four, all-day classes. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, the program is 100% free for any resident of Stone or Taney County.
Q: How do I register for a session?
A: Go online to OLLBranson.com/Give5 or contact MikeRivera@OLLBranson.com or call 417-334-2928…and bring a friend!
Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church
Worship Directory
You are encouraged to worship with us!
Around Town: Here’s
MAY
• 1 St. Nix store grand opening, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Join us for our grand opening celebration. There will be a spin wheel for exciting prizes and an incredible selection of toys, collectibles, diecast, pins, cards and much more! We have something for everyone at St. Nix. 827 W. Main St., Ste. 203, Branson. https:// www.facebook.com/ share/1ATV2P8DCG/
• 1 SEArenity Yoga at Wonders of Wildlife, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Join our certified yoga instructor as she leads you through an hour of relaxation and restorative yoga practices. If you are a newcomer to yoga or a seasoned yogi, this class is for you. Please bring a yoga mat, and any props you may need. Ages 13-plus. 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. https://wondersofwildlife.org/events/
• 1 Kewpiesta, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. International Rose O’Neill Club Foundation Kewpiesta. The annual event combines educational seminars, workshops, contests and opportunities to buy and sell Rose O’Neill and Rose O’Neill-related items. Some events require registration. 236 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson. www.irocf.org
• 2 Rose O’Neill Collectors Convention, 9 a.m.9 p.m. Ozark’s Rose O’Neill, creator of Kewpies, is celebrated during Kewpiesta. O’Neill fans and collectors study her life and works. The annual event includes educational seminars, work-
shops, and chances to buy and sell O’Neill and O’Neill-related items. Branson Towers Hotel, 236 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson. For more information, www.irocf.org
• 2 St. Nix store grand opening, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Join us for our grand opening celebration. There will be a spin wheel for exciting prizes and an incredible selection of toys, collectibles, diecast, pins, cards and much more! We have something for everyone at St. Nix. 827 W. Main St., Ste. 203, Branson. https:// www.facebook.com/ share/1ATV2P8DCG/
• 2 Elevate Coffee Trivia Night, 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.) Join us for a night of trivia! Teams recommended. $5 admission. Prizes for first and second place. BOGO on specialty drinks. 310 Gretna Road, Branson. For information, 417335-9915.
• 2 C of O Concert Band performance, 7:30-8:30 p.m. The College of the Ozarks Concert Band will present a concert in Jones Auditorium on the C of O campus, Point Lookout. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, kpowers@cofo.edu
• 2 Jukebox Winos: LIVE MUSIC at Cellar 417, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy good eats at the newest scratch kitchen: fresh seasonal dishes, sharable plates to dinner specials, wine, beer, cocktails, full bar, restaurant and patio seating. Gorgeous lake view. We’ll play favorite covers and original music. 15038 Bus. Hwy 13, Branson West. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com; www.cellar417. com; 417-527-3799.
2-3 Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake: Upscale garage sale at the Kimberling Area Library, 45 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. High quality items, including some furniture, may be purchased to support Stone and Taney County charities as part of the organization’s fundraising mission.
3 Runway For Hope 5K and 1 Mile Run, 7-8:30 a.m. 4000 Branson Airport Blvd., Hollister. Unique opportunity to run/walk the runway at Branson Airport. Adults $30; youth $20 (18 and under). All proceeds support the establishment of a children’s therapy program at Hope Counseling Center. https://www.hopecounselingmo.org/5k 3 Open House, 9-11 a.m.: NORTHWOODS 55-plus COMMUNITY: Branson’s #1 Senior Adult Mobile Home Community invites you to view 2 bd, 2 ba homes, 840-960 sq ft. 640 State Highway 248, Branson. Entrance to the park is right next to the new Sherwin Williams on 248. Please come to the office, #62; follow the signs. $1195/mo. - water, sewer, trash and area maintenance included. One pet is welcome under 20 lbs. - pet dep. $250, $10/mo. 417-322-6855. northwoodsmhpllc.com
• 3 St. Nix store grand opening, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Join us for our grand opening celebration. There will be a spin wheel for exciting prizes and an incredible selection of toys, collectibles, diecast, pins, cards and much more! We have something for everyone at St. Nix. 827 W. Main St., Ste. 203, Branson. https://www.facebook.
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MOVIE W 1:00, 4:20, 7:00 THE AMATEUR E 12:30, 3:30, 7:30
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3 Jukebox Winos: LIVE MUSIC at Dirt Road Dryfter, 12-3 p.m. Woofstock ‘25 Peace Love Rescue Dog Adoption Event’s next stop in historic downtown Hollister! 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.— local vendors & food trucks; 12-3 p.m. live music; 1-3 p.m. dog adoption event benefiting Taney County Animal Control & The Dallas Ranch. 2045 South Bus. 65, Hollister. For more information: www.jukeboxwinos.com; www. dirtroaddryfter.com
• 3 Jukebox Winos: LIVE MUSIC at Turkey Creek Brewery, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Gather in historic downtown Hollister for house-crafted, award-winning beer; local wine, wood-fired pizza, pretzels and wings. We’ll play favorite covers and original music.1865 Bus. 65, Hollister. For more information: www. jukeboxwinos.com; www.turkeycreekbrewery.com; 417-218-8362.
• 4 Branson Masonic Lodge #587 Spaghetti Lunch: It’s Spaghetti Sunday! 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All you care to eat spaghetti lunch. First Sunday of the month fundraiser to support Branson Masonic Lodge #587. We support local school lunch programs and other community events. Spaghetti, meatballs, salad, garlic bread, dessert and drink ALL for only $10. Come out and enjoy meeting friends, enjoy a good meal while you support a great organization. Everyone welcome! 100 Chiefs Court, Branson. For more information, 318-349-2559.
• 4 Branson Jammin’ for Jesus, 2-4 p.m. Jammin’ for Jesus gospel concerts are every first Sunday of the month, April through December, at the Hughes Brothers Theater. It’s a different concert with new and amazing guests every month. Join us for a time of praise and giving. Free admission. The Hughes Brothers Theater. 3425 W 76 Country Blvd., Branson. https:// www.bransonjamminforjesus.com/
• 6 Constitution Alive! Ten-week, workbook, leadership/discussion, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Students
in the Tri-Lakes
welcome. Course is $30, includes workbook. Covenant Life Church, 120 North 3rd St., Branson. Know your religious liberties. Gain more Constitutional knowledge. Learn tangible action steps for preserving liberty. Learn biblical, historical and Constitutional foundation of freedom. Be entertained, inspired and educated. For more information, to register: Patriotacademy.com; phone 956-533-6781.
• 7 HACC networking event: Leading Ladies, “Effective Communication,” with Kim Connell. Imagine Technical Institute, unit 210, Hollister, from 12-2 p.m. Light lunch provided. Prepare to network, laugh and relax with some amazing women in our community. Kim is Communications Director for the Hollister School District and a true pillar in our community. She was named one of the Most Influential Women in 2024 by the Springfield Business Journal. She has a heart of gold and a wealth of knowledge, especially regarding effective communication across multiple platforms. $15 registration required. To register: https://business. hollisterchamber.net/ap/ Events/Register/lzF7XQ2ijC5Cw 7 Life360 Hollister Church, announces its Wednesday night meal mission: Gather as a church to reach people for Jesus! We have a meal at 6 pm.; our service starts at 6:30. We will continue to meet every Wednesday night at that time. Held at Castle Rock Chapel, 155 2nd St., Hollister.
• 9 Forsyth Garden Club plant and bake sale, 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. There will also be silent auction baskets. Proceeds of the sale are used to sponsor scholarships for College of the Ozarks students. We will be taking extra donations to help with Forsythia Park improvements. Forsythia Park next to the library. 162 Main St., Forsyth. For information: Facebook page Garden Club of Forsyth Missouri. 9 Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge 2597, 12951 U.S. Hwy. 160, Forsyth. For more
information, 1-800-Red Cross or redcrossblood.
org
• 9 Jukebox Winos: LIVE MUSIC at Bear Creek Wine Co and Brewery, 5-8 p.m. Enjoy local wine and craft beers, pizza, sandwiches, and desserts at this rustic, shabby-chic gem nestled in the hills 10 minutes north of Branson. We’ll play favorite covers and original music. 1320 Keithley Road, Walnut Shade. For more information: www.jukeboxwinos.com; www. bearcreekwinecompany. com; 417-443-0036.
• 9 The Retro Hotel: Grand opening, 4-7 p.m. The Retro Hotel grand opening & ribbon cutting featuring New Jersey Nights, The Ultimate 70s Show, Elvis, John Lennon, Mick Jagger and more! Room tours, toasts & treats, Dress to impress and you could win a lava lamp! The Retro Hotel, 2330 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson. The Retro Hotel brings you to a cooler, groovier time — with the modern touches, fabulous location, incredible hospitality and timeless retro style. It’s your new favorite stop for a blast from the past! Stay nostalgic. Stay stylish. Stay retro. For more info: Instagram: The_Retro_Hotel
• 10 Ozarks Food Harvest: Stamp Out Hunger 2025, 12 a.m.-11:59 p.m. Participate by leaving a bag of nonperisha-ble food next to your mailbox Saturday morning. Mailboxes across southwest Missouri. Carriers will collect the donations along their postal routes. All food will be distributed to help feed our neighbors facing hunger in our community. https://ozarksfoodharvest.org/events/stampout-hunger-2025/ • 10 Jukebox Winos: LIVE MUSIC at Malt and Barrel Brewing, 1-3 p.m. Woofstock ‘25 Peace Love Rescue Dog Adoption Event’s next tour stop at this eclectic cozy tasting room with craft beers, local wine, sodas. Charcuterie board & cookies. Snuggle up these dogs benefiting Taney County Animal Control & The Dallas Ranch. 225 Cross Creek, Suite G, Branson. For more information: www.jukeboxwinos.com; www.maltandbarrelbrewing.com; 417-242-1048. • 11 Mother’s Day discount at Dogwood Canyon, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature! Receive 50% off all single day general admission tickets for Moms at the ticket counter on Sunday, May 11. Explore the natural world while making lasting memories together. 2038 W. State Hwy. 86, Lampe. Valid for walk-up tickets only. https://dogwoodcanyon. org/special-offers/#mothers-day
BY GARY J. GROMAN
a.k.a. The Ole Seagull, Columnist Emeritus
Those who read the Ole Seagull’s columns regularly know that he often turns to Abraham Lincoln’s quotes for inspiration and comfort. This week, two friends lost a loved one,
On the darkest night, stars still shine, though we may not always see them
and the Ole Seagull, realizing his shortcomings, turned to Lincoln again for his wisdom, eloquence and inspiration for words of comfort. The result is the paraphrasing of a letter written by Lincoln, on May 25, 1861, to comfort Fanny McCullough, the daughter of his long-time friend William McCullough, who lost his life in action during the Civil War. It’s shared with the hope that it will bring comfort to my friends and all of us who have lost or are losing a loved one. My Dear Friends, In the depths of your sorrow, I reach out to you with
words that may seem inadequate in the face of such profound loss. Yet, I am compelled to offer what comfort I can, for I have known the bitter sting of grief that now pierces your heart. … In this sad world of ours, sorrow comes to all; and to the young, it comes with bitterest agony, because it takes them unawares. The older have learned to ever expect it. I do not mock your grief by suggesting that time will swiftly heal this wound. No, my dear friends, the path ahead is long and often dark. But I implore you to take heart, for even in the darkest night, stars still
shine, though we may not always see them. Your loved one’s life was a beacon of courage and integrity. Let their memory be a guiding light in the days to come. When the weight of loss feels unbearable, remember the strength they instilled in you. You are their legacy, carrying forward the virtues they held dear. It may seem impossible now, but I assure you that joy will find you again. Not to replace what you have lost, for that can never be, but to remind you that life persists, even in the shadow of death. They would want you to live fully, to honor their
memory not just with tears, but with laughter, love and the pursuit of all that is good and noble.
In the quiet moments, when grief threatens to overwhelm, recall the sound of their voice and the warmth of their embrace. These memories are precious gifts that death cannot take from you. They are the threads that will keep you connected to them, even as you move forward in a world changed by their absence.
…As you navigate this difficult journey, remember that grief is not a straight path. There will be days when the sun seems a little brighter,
and others when the darkness feels all-consuming. Both are natural, and both are necessary. Allow yourself to feel without judgment, to heal at your own pace.
…In closing, my dear friends, know that you are not alone in your grief. Though the days ahead may seem insurmountable, you carry within you the strength of their spirit. May you find comfort in cherished memories, solace in the love of those around you, and hope in the promise of brighter days to come. With deepest sympathy and enduring friendship, A. Lincoln
pinion
First Amendment to the United States Constitution Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com
GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist
ROSE BUCKLES Freelance Writer/Bilingual Rosebuckles1999@gmail. com
KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com
MARK FEDER
Taney Co. Sales Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian cowboyclub1994@gmail.com
LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer bransonglobeluanna@ gmail.com
TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer tiffanykgravett@gmail.com
KAREN HALFPOP Digital/Production Mgr. production@bransonglobe. com
K.D. MICHAELS Staff Writer kdmichaelsbranson1@ gmail.com
CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer cjthomas74@yahoo.com www.cynthiajthomas.com
DARYL WEATHER Weather Forecaster bransonwx@gmail.com
EDITORIAL
POLICY:
The comments on opinion pages are the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily those of the Branson Globe, or its staff. Have something to say? Share it with us in your own Letter to the Editor. Letters to the editor sent via e-mail and fewer than 400 words are given preference. Published or unpublished letters become the property of the newspaper and will not be returned. All letters must include, name, address, and verifiable phone number. The editors may refuse publication of any letter that is libelous, in poor taste, or that endorses a business or product. Letters are subject to editing. © 2025 Branson Globe Newspaper, LLC. All rights reserved.
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
What habits did your parents instill in you that have benefited you into adulthood and as a parent or grandparent? For me, a big one is reading—I regularly get on my soapbox about the importance of quality literature, especially physical print books, and the brain pathways developed by taking handwritten notes as I study my Bible or interact with the book I’m reading. Lately, though, I’ve been
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks.net
I
t always comes back to the words,” I type on my comfortable old laptop this balmy late-April afternoon as the dogs drape themselves over the furniture, dozing, awaiting their walk. The StateoftheOzarks season hasn’t opened, not quite. But the clock is ticking. Five days.
The StateoftheOzarks (formerly Hollister) Farmers Market opens Saturday, May 3, at 10 a.m., now at Vintage Paris Coffee on Historic Highway 165 across from the Branson Scenic Overlook. The move marks a major change for our events, especially seeing how StateoftheOzarks (formerly First Friday) Art Walk Market, opens 3 p.m., Friday, May 16, also at Vintage Paris Coffee. Farmers Market will open every Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and every Wednesday, 2-6 p.m., weather permitting (May through October). Many of our regular vendors will be there, as well as some new ones.
Writers Artists Night, StateoftheOzarks’ biggest little event, will also be at
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer
This week’s column is written by Aaron Gravett
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy. Philippians 1:3-4
Along time ago as a youth pastor of about
Reflections: Simple habits, skills for a lifetime
thinking about another habit I took for granted as a child, but realized the benefits as an adult and continue to appreciate now: Singing.
My parents grew up during the Great Depression, with few conveniences. After a hard day’s work, families somehow found time to sing a few hymns or folk songs accompanied by a fiddle, guitar, or even a homemade banjo. My great-grandfather Johnnie Massey was well-known around several Arkansas counties as a song leader for revival meetings. Having perfect pitch, he could start the hymns in the correct key with or without accompaniment. He passed away before I was born, but my dad remembered him standing at the front of the church and singing the chord, “Do
Vintage Paris 6-10 p.m., Saturday, August 9. Right now we are accepting writers and artists for this event, an event for which I pair original written works with regional artists, asking the artists to create “original art inspired in some way by the written word.”
The evening is emotional, profound, funny, moving, heartwarming. There are often tears. Writers Artists Night was our first StateoftheOzarks event ever. We started the event on the courtyard at the old downtown Vintage Paris loca-tion in September 2015 and have hosted the event yearly since then. Last year we moved back to Vintage Paris, albeit at their new location (across from Branson Scenic Overlook), and the return was magical. That advent precipi-tated conversations which led to a re-envisioned series of events: Makers Market, Art Walk Market, Farmers Market. The StateoftheOzarks’ events calendar is now year ‘round for the first time ever.
“It always comes back to the words.” Ideas. Thoughts. The simple profundity of two people engaged in conversa-tion, coupled with attention, with care, the willingness to engage, the willingness to follow through. I am honored by my long-time partnership with StateoftheOzarks’ publisher Dale Grubaugh. He has more grit
35 teens, I had a night that surprised me when only four came. It set me into a bad mood and the four that came could feel it. Then God spoke - through a teen - but He spoke. She said, “You’re so frustrated that all the rest aren’t here, but you don’t have to take it out on the ones that showed up.” Ouch - it was like God took me to the woodshed and disciplined me. What she spoke was truth, and I quickly apologized to the ones that were there. Here I am, 26 years later, and I still get very frustrated and sad for some that I love so very much that
– So – Mi – Do,” so that the sopranos, altos, tenors and basses could find their starting note. Singing was considered an important social skill; one of my family treasures is a battered singing-school book.
My parents continued the tradition, singing before bedtime prayer or while traveling in the car. My mom would start a song and then take the second soprano part while my sister sang the soprano; that left me for alto and my dad, of course, on baritone or bass. From “’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” to “She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain,” the memories and the songs lift my spirits to this day. When we traveled with our own kids, whether on vacation or just shorter trips around town, technolo-
and follow-through than any other man I know. He has worked tirelessly this winter, recovering lost mobility from a stroke on July 6 that would have killed a lesser guy. Saturday, July 6, 2024 is a date now permanently etched in my brain. I am grateful for Dale, and his mentorship.
“I’m a member, right?”
Tracy Kimmel, the general manager of the Olde English Inn and the Black Horse Pub, was asking me. It was 2017 and outside, a cold February sun warmed roof frost, causing water to drip from the historic Inn’s gutters onto the Downing Street sidewalk just beyond the big picture window in the lobby where we sat.
“Well, yeah,” I replied, not sure where this conversation was headed.
StateoftheOzarks, the online magazine, was now member-driven rather than advertising-driven, and I was on a mis-sion to build our membership community, advocating for each and every new member with my characteristic and idealistic gusto.
“Well, we need a festival,” Tracy said matter-of-factly. And she meant it, arranging my meeting with Hollister’s city staff five days later. Exactly one week sitting in the old inn’s lobby, Dale and I walked out of City Hall, having been given approval for a certain “StateoftheOzarks” arts and crafts festival, set for mid-September. Truth be told, I had no idea how
don’t want to be a part of my life. Some of these are the ones I never thought would distance themselves from me, and it tears me up inside and brings me to tears on occasion. It is important for me to remember the words of that young teen - “You’re so frustrated that all the rest aren’t here, but you don’t have to take it out on the ones that showed up.” Yes, it’s sad to think of those that aren’t close to me that I love so much, but there is no way I’m going to take it out on the ones that choose to love me and be in my life. They all need to know how thankful I am for them.
gy had improved a bit. We heard lots of Adventures in Odyssey episodes and worship music on a boom box and later a car stereo, but we also sang. And again, with five of us we were able to cover the parts. Their grasp of harmony made it easy for the kids to play the piano by ear; and they all excelled on other instruments and in choir. We also discovered that Luke inherited his great-great-grandfather’s perfect pitch. Why is this important? Singing is a God-given way to relate to our Creator—in the Psalms alone, singing clearly helped remind the writers of God’s goodness, and the New Testament exhorts believers to “sing and make melody in your hearts.” Music also develops those vital neuropath-
ways. I have seen people in the nursing home who are experiencing some cognitive decline, but when singing, not only can they remember all the words to hymns or songs popular in their youth, but it often stimulates other memories and starts conversations! As technology continues to increase, let’s make sure we use it as a tool and not an escape from the joy of singing. My granddaughter has her own little digital player loaded with some of her favorite groups, but I’m glad my son and daughter-in law are also teaching the kids to sing along and interact with the music, at home and at church. These simple habits, started early and included in family life, build lifelong skills and draw us closer to the One who puts the music in our hearts!
to build a festival, but we learned, and we learned quickly.
Seven months later I was standing in the hot September sun on Downing Street and Rick Ziegenfuss, Hollister City Administrator, was talking to me. “This doesn’t look like a new festival, Josh. This looks like a veteran, 10-year festival. Good job. I expect to see you at council next week to request a special events permit for next year.” I was on cloud nine, and not just from relief that no major catastrophes had occurred. For StateoftheOzarks, I had seen a vision unfold — crossing generational boundaries, combining and showcasing Ozarks culture in fun and weird and exciting ways. Only at StateoftheOzarks Fest can you visit with traditional craftsman, contemporary artists, talk history, watch real-live Medieval combat, and be accosted by goblins. It is the kaleidoscopic experience for which I had hoped, one that brings people together over shared engagement rather than driving them further apart in an in-creasingly polarized society.
StateoftheOzarks Fest ‘25 is scheduled for 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday, September 13, on Historic Downing Street, Hollister, Missouri. This is our eighth annual festival.
Words, arts, crafts, then tomatoes. This StateoftheOzarks life of mine has been next-to-impossible to predict. I did-n’t know I was going to become a festival builder. But there was a need and I had a vision. I didn’t know I would become co-manager of a farmers market, but there was a need. Years ago, as a graphic designer teaching at a college in central Illinois, I could not have imagined my life revolving around tomatoes, or goblins, or traditional crafts-manship, or contemporary art. And yet, here we are, opening yet another season, bolstered by a beautiful communi-ty, supported by a growing number of StateoftheOzarks members whose talents and works I am humbled to share with you all. Taking the responsibility to craft one’s own career is sobering. If something happens I really don’t like, I often have only myself to blame. Theoretical planning is meaningless, living so close to the outcomes. If one of my ideas fail, I know it right away. People simply don’t buy into the failures. Living so close to the edge can be terrifying but I love the honesty therein. And when things are said and done, I cannot say life happened to me because I was there, on the ground, behind the wheel, intentionally charting every strange new course, creating, crafting and experienc-ing, with purpose. It always comes back to the words.
If you are married, the one that you should feel that thankfulness the most about is your spouse. I love and am so very thankful for my wife Tiffany.
She is my best friend, my favorite person, my love, my wife, my one flesh and my ministry partner. She encour-ages me, supports me and pours Christ’s light into me, and I for her. She didn’t have to be in my life, but she chose to.
So, look around your life. Sure, there are some, and maybe many who you love and who choose not to be a part of your life. There are others thoughyour spouse, parents, sib-
lings, children, other family members and friends that choose to be in your life. Find your love in those relationships, for that is what life is all about. Let those remind you of the ultimate one that wants to be a part of your life - Jesus Christ. He loves you so much that we can’t even imagine it. It just takes saying “yes” to Him and all that He is for that relationship to start. So instead of being so sad about those that choose not to be close to you, be so thankful for the ones that do and enjoy them to the fullest. Tell the ones around you and tell them often, “I’m thankful you’re here.”
BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO, Ramsey
Solutions, and an eight-time No.
1 national best-selling author, and host of The Ramsey Show
Dear Dave, I recently experienced a medical emergen-
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
When my kids were young, they liked to put their helium balloons in a grey packing tub and try to hold all the balloons down with their outstretched arms. If they moved just a little, one or two balloons would spring back up. It feels a little like that now in the market, like someone is trying to hold down the
BY HEATHER TANKERSLEY, REALTOR®,
provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area.
If buying a home is on your radar – even if it’s more of a someday plan than a right now plan –getting pre-approved early is still one of the smartest moves you can make. Why? Because, like anything in life, the right prep work makes things clearer.
The best time to get serious about buying is before you’re ready to buy. Here’s why.
Pre-Approval Helps You Understand The Numbers
One of the biggest benefits of pre-approval is how it helps you understand your buying power. As part of the pre-approval process, a lender will walk through your finances and tell you what you can borrow based on your income, debts, credit score, and more. That number is power. Once you have that clarity, you’re no longer guessing. You know what you’re working with. And that gives you the information you need to be able to plan ahead. That way, you’re not falling in love with homes that are outside of your price range – or missing out
Dave Says: Medical emergencies come first
cy and unexpected hospital stay. I’m about halfway through Baby Step 2, and I’m paying off my debts using the debt snowball system. I have good insurance, but should I put Baby Step 2 on hold for now due to all the hospital bills?
Gerard Dear Gerard, That’s exactly what you should do. I’m sorry to hear about your health issues, but at the same time, I hope you’ll make sure you’re only pressing the pause button on Baby Step 2. I’m talking
about temporarily stopping the debt snowball and making only minimum payments on all non-mortgage debt for now. Can you manage that? Things like this can be expensive, but they’re part of life. At the same time, taking care of these kinds of issues doesn’t have to mean giving up on gaining control of your finances. Emergency issues, especially medical emergencies, come first. Then, go back and pick up where you left off when things are better, and finish knocking out your other debt by restarting
your debt snowball. After that, I’ve got a feeling you’ll have the motivation to fully fund your emergency fund in Baby Step 3 all the way up to three to six months of expenses.
God bless you, friend. Keep your head up, and take good care of yourself while you’re recovering. You can do this!
Dave
—
Pay it off, young lady!
Dear Dave,
I’m 28, and I make around $75,000 a year. My only debt right now is a car
payment. I still owe $15,000 on the vehicle, and currently I have $30,000 in savings and a 401(k) through my employer. I love my job, but my income can fluctuate from month to month. Do you think I should pay off the car, or hang on to all my savings?
Erin Dear Erin, Debt is a bad thing to have in your life, even with a good income. It’s an especially bad thing when your income can vary from paycheck to paycheck. It’s
sounds like you’re in pretty good shape financially, except for that car note. It’s like an anchor weighing your finances down. If you paid off the car, you’d still have $15,000 sitting in your savings account. And with your income, plus the money you’d free up by no longer having a car payment, you could rebuild your savings in a flash. You know where I’m going with this, don’t you? Pay off that car, young lady! — Dave
Stock Market Insights: The Market wants to rise - lessons from past recoveries
market to keep it from rising.
There seems to be a lot of investor nervousness.
Though I have only received one call from my own clients, I have received numerous calls from nervous investors who invest elsewhere. My view is that while policy changes, even abrupt ones, can slow market growth, they will not stop the market from growing.
The companies we are investing in have talented people who provide the world with quality products and services that consumers will continue to pay for. This will lead the market to continue to grow in value despite short-term economic conditions because of our resilient economy and continued innovation. Here are two reasons why
I feel so strongly about the market’s future.
1. Not even the COVID shutdown could hold this economy down. The earnings per share of the top five hundred companies (S&P 500) have increased over every 10-year period since World War II, including the COVID shut-down. It’s hard to imagine, without having lived through it, just how big of a deal it was for the entire world’s economy to stop working and producing. Yet that happened, and we have all witnessed the economy make a cold start and run as hard as ever. This time of trade wars isn’t the size of a fly on an elephant’s butt compared to the shutdown in 2020. Since World War II, the stock market has risen despite going through twelve reces-
sions and sev-eral geopolitical shocks, and will continue to do so through this one.
2. Innovation continues despite volatility. Government policies might sometimes hinder the creation of new profit-able ideas or products, but they are never stopped. For example, during the difficult days following the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act in 1930, when the U.S. raised the average tariff to 20%, great new products continued to be developed and sold around the world. During that trade war, the radio was created, and sales doubled. Another exam-ple is that the building of U.S. airplanes and advancements in aviation technology during this time were so popular that airplane exports rose over 40-fold in the 1930s, even
though tariffs were in the news and heavy on the hearts of investors. The invention of the radio and commercial flights were just as big in those days as the cell phone and internet were just a few years ago. The current innovation, AI, could be just as big. The radio, airplane, cell phone and internet changed how life was lived; AI might too, despite a trade war being waged. I believe the AI buildout and the construction of data centers to support AI computing will thrive during this current economic and political volatility.
While investor nervousness will continue, I continue to believe that investing with a long-term view and focusing on fundamentals and innovation will help investors reach their goals. It probably
Pre-Approval Isn’t Commitment – It’s Clarity
on ones that aren’t.
Pre-Approval Helps You Move Quickly When You’re Ready You don’t have to be ready to buy to be ready to buy. It happens all the time –someone scrolls through listings just for fun, and then BAM – they fall in love with something they see online. But by the time they scramble to connect with an agent and then get pre-approved with a lender, someone else beats them to it, and they lose the home. And you don’t want that to happen to you.
While you can’t control when the right home shows up – you can be ready for it.
Pre-approval isn’t about jumping the gun or rushing your timeline. It’s about making sure you’re ready when it’s go-time. As Experian explains:
“Waiting too long to get a preapproval, however, could leave you at a disadvantage... you could find the perfect home, but another buyer
could snatch it up while you’re waiting for the lender to review your preapproval application...getting a preapproval just before you begin actively looking at homes may be your best option.”
Instead of rushing to figure out your numbers, trying to get documentation for your home loan together, and watching the house you love slip away while you wait to hear from your lender, you’re already in the game.
It’s like showing up to the starting line with your shoes tied and your warm-up done – while everyone else is still looking for parking.
But pre-approvals do have an expiration date, so be sure to ask your lender how long it’s good for.
Bankrate offers this insight:
“Many mortgage preapprovals are valid for 90 days, though some lenders will only authorize a 30- or 60day preapproval. If your preapproval expires, getting it renewed can be as simple as your lender rechecking your
credit and finances to ensure there have been no major changes to your situation since the first time ‘round.”
The thing is, if you’ve been pre-approved – even if you’re just thinking about casually looking – you have a much better sense of how to navigate your home search within your budget. Plus, you’ll be ready if the perfect home comes along.
So why not make it happen?
Bottom Line
Getting pre-approved doesn’t mean you have to buy a house today. But it does mean you’ll know what you’re working with
wouldn’t hurt to also ignore the headlines for a while. My confidence comes from having a proven process that is flexible to adapt to the changing market environment. If you have a good investment plan, you should be confident in your portfolio positioning. Whenever my kids stopped holding down the balloons, the balloons that had enough helium would bounce back up. I won’t get into whether President Trump’s actions will be good or bad, but I know they can only be judged in the long term. A huge encouragement for me is that every time he backs off his pressure, the market bounces up. That tells me the economy has a lot of gas left in the tank. Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
when the right one shows up. If you want to get pre-approved, connect with a lender to get that process started.
In the meantime, let’s have a conversation about what’s on your mind and what you’re looking for.
If the perfect house popped
This week Luanna and John Fullerton are compiling their two stories into one. John is sharing his part on the history of the Baldknobbers, and Luanna is sharing her part on the current Baldknobbers. Please enjoy the read.
Looking back at this week in history, May 1, 1960, was the opening day of Silver Dollar City. The Baldknobbers hillbilly band was hired to perform at the event.
It was sometime in April 1960 when Jack Herschend approached the group to see if they could do an afternoon performance for the City’s
ry.com. Bob can be reached at robertmford@aol.com.
If you love history and these articles, we are seeking sponsors to support the
The Baldknobbers, the legends
opening day, providing background music for a few hours. But Jack had a special request. He wanted a band that had a banjo player. Out of the fivepiece band which included Chick Allen, his son-in-law Bob, with his brothers Jim and Lyle, and fiddler Raymond Bruffett, none of them had any banjo experience. What could they do?
Bob Mabe recalled, “If we couldn’t come up with a banjo player, we wouldn’t get the job. So, I went to a pawn shop in Springfield, purchased a used banjo for twenty bucks, and spent the next two weeks teaching myself how to play the thing!” The Baldknobbers band had been together for around a year, and Bob had been the group’s guitarist, playing simple rhythm, so taking on the banjo was a real challenge. Jack Herschend was happy when he learned what Bob had done, their gig was a good, and Bob would often be the group’s banjo picker in the
early years of the band.
The year 1960 was a busy one for the Baldknobbers. In addition to doing their own show in the Sammy Lane Pavillion along Lake Taneycomo a few nights a week, the group also performed during the party scene several nights a week in the new Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor drama.
Chick Allen was a major influence in getting the group started. Not only did he name the band after the post-Civil War era vigilante group that was Christian and Taney County based, Allen also served as the group’s producer and agent, a position that he held for the first ten years of their existence. His instrument was the jaw-bone of the mule, used as a percussion instrument, played with small sticks. The Mabes called it the “Jack-assaphone” in their early programs, and Chick Allen was believed to be the only member of the musician’s union that was a
jaw-bone player!
It’s truly wonderful that we have these three Branson area icons still with us and going strong today, the Baldknobbers at 66 years strong, Silver Dollar City and the Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama, both celebrating their 65th anniversaries. Absolute legends!
Currently, the Baldknobbers are performing two versions of their shows. One is the vintage, where they have compiled a list of songs that are favorites from the past sixty-six years, along with some history thrown in there. The other version is more of an updated country version, with some dirt rock, soft rock and gospel thrown in. Attending either of these shows will have your feet tapping and hands clapping, along with big smiles!
They have an awesome harmony and chemistry sound together, with some of the best comedy out there today. Brandon has taken
Scams, swindles and schemes litter American history
work. Contact Rob at the Globe, 417-334-9100 for details or donate via Venmo@ bobfordshistory
In life, if your name is given to anything including a crime, you’ve left a mark on society, like Charles Ponzi.
The aptly named Ponzi Scheme promised a 50% return on investments within 45 days and 100% return in 100. Come on people; too good to be true, don’t you think! It was the roaring ‘20s and America was the place to be. Post World War I where the United States came out of the times as a new leader on the world stage. European nations were reeling
from the war with millions killed and economies flattened as countries struggled to provide an existence for their survivors.
Ponzi relied on one of humanity’s most negative traits: greed.
In a Ponzi Scheme the conductor is the hub, collecting money from early investors repaying them with money raised from later chumps. Most of the time the business pitched as the opportunity never existed or investments in land, mines or stocks never made.
A Pyramid Scheme is where the recruited investor is rewarded from bringing
in new participants and their money into the opportunity; as always the last one in is the ultimate sucker.
Charles Ponzi received plenty of publicity. His scheme involved reduced postal coupons that could be redeemed for a much higher return. Of course, as time runs on, investors get nervous or wise up and demand their cash back. Again sadly, the last money in, is left holding the empty bag.
Deception and betrayal are as old as mankind itself.
Cain and Abel, Jacob disguising himself as Esau, his older brother, to fool their father and receive the birthright promised to the elder brother, on and on throughout history.
Fast forward to the man that came close to causing the fall of an Empire, John Law.
You can find a striking portrait of John Law in the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art in St Joseph. What is this charlatan doing having his stately portrait there?
It was donated interestingly enough by famed Kansas City banker R.
Crosby Kemper. I would like to know the attraction Mr. Kemper had to the man that caused the Bank of France to nearly collapse.
When he passed, King Louis the XIV left France in dire straits with his spending, a couple wars and that Palace of Versailles with 700 rooms, wasn’t cheap to build. John Law had become friends with the new man in charge, the Duke of Orleans. Law’s 1720 intriguing plan to bolster the economy was to introduce paper money into the federal system backed by gold and silver held in state vaults, sound thinking. The problem was Law didn’t know when to stop printing money.
A few worried citizens started to demand coins in return for their paper money but the Bank of France was running out of hard currency. Law needed new reassurance or promise for his paper holders. France had enormous claims in the New World. Law received the exclusive trading contract for the land known as “La Louisiane.”
The banker hinted that there were vast gold and silver finds in the territory, and the nation would reap huge rewards once mined. Influential friends listened. Law paraded 6,000 peasants through the streets of Paris stating they were on their way to mine the promised deposits. His scheme was later dubbed the “Mississippi Bubble.” Currency holders believed him, but only for a while. Most peasants never sailed to the New World and minerals were not found. A bank run for the ages was on. Once it started, thousands lost their life savings and lives, troops were called in as riots ensued.
The Duke died shortly thereafter in 1723. John Law received the blame from the French Parliament and fled to Vienna, where he died in 1729 leaving a legacy and lesson that many in power today have not learned.
Being a Missouri Supreme Court Appointee, (OCDC), hearing cases against attorneys for 12 years, I have listened to some doozie schemes.
One of my favorites was with a named partner from
BY BOB FORD, Writer, history buff and regular visitor to Branson. You can find more of Bob’s work including his historical podcasts on his website bobfordshisto-
BY JOHN & LUANNA FULLERTON, area history and entertainment writers.
The official opening day at Silver Dollar City, May 1, 1960. The Baldknobbers performed as afternoon entertainment out in front of the Silver Dollar City General Store. On the wagon are Chick Allen, Raymond Bruffett, Bob Mabe and up above, Jim Mabe and Lyle Mabe. (Photo courtesy John Fullerton)
Tonight’s show cast included Brandon and Megan Mabe, Shane Van Camp, Ashley Dawn, and Mayham (Paul May). The band: Tina Sibley - violin and keys; John Lance - vocals, keys, steel and guitar; Bob Roth - bass guitar; Grant Moody - lead guitar; Garrett Massengale – drums (Photo courtesy Luanna Fullerton)
Ponzi (Photo submitted by Bob Ford)
SEE BOB FORD, PAGE 9B
SEE JOHN & LUANNA, PAGE 9B
The Manson Theater for Performing Arts: Get ready for unforgettable nights of rock!
Submitted to Branson Globe
Step into a time machine and experience the electrifying energy of these classic groups as they perform live at The Mansion. From soaring anthems to heartfelt ballads, this is your chance to relive the soundtrack of the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Bohemian Queen: May 17 and October 11 (both shows at 8 p.m.)
Hailed as “the World’s Most Passionate Queen Tribute,” successfully selling out shows wherever they perform, Bohemian Queen has built a strong foundation as a national “A” level touring theatrical QUEEN show providing a full throttle rock-n-roll concert experience. THEY WILL ROCK YOU! For
tickets, go to https://tickets. themansiontheatre.com, or call 417-335-2000.
Yacht Rock the Dock –Ambrosia and Friends: June 6 at 8 p.m.
“Yacht Rock the Dock” features the original artists in concert playing some of the most iconic hits from one of rock’s greatest eras. Ambrosia, John Ford
Coley and Peter Becket (the voice of Player) will come together for a magical night performing all of their 1970s’ and 1980s’ Billboard Top 4 Hits. Get ready to ROCK THE DOCK! To buy Yacht Rock the Dock tickets: Go to https://tickets. themansiontheatre.com, or call 417-335-2000.
TOAST: The ultimate
Bread tribute – November 1 at 8 p.m.
TOAST is the number one tribute in the world to the ‘70s hit band, Bread! With a surprising fidelity rarely heard from a live tribute band, their sound is often described as “spot on” to the original recordings. Audiences everywhere rave about how closely their live
performances sound like the cherished records they listened to back in the day.
To buy TOAST tickets: Go to https://tickets. themansiontheatre.com, or call 417-335-2000.
To see The Mansion’s full concert listing: TheMansionTheatre.com. The Mansion Theatre is located at 189 Expressway Ln, Branson.
Jammin’ for Jesus on May 4 to benefit Ozark Mountain Music Association Kids’ Camp
Submitted to Branson Globe Branson Jammin’ for Jesus concerts are every first Sunday of the month, April through December, at The Hughes Brothers Theatre located on the strip at 3425 W. 76 Country Blvd. These free concerts bring people together for a time of praise and giving. The music will begin Sunday, May 4, at 2 p.m. with hosts Brian Pen-
dergrass and Sheila Meeker; and Branson entertainer, Kari Garrison of Clay Cooper’s Country Express. Also featured this month are the wonderful music ministries of the very talented saxophonist, Gary Dooms; anointed singer/ songwriter Marlene Pelt; and the amazing husband and wife duo Tracey and Leroy Bone, also known as
The Singing Bones. Each of our guests have a special anointing on their ministry and possess a burning desire to share God’s unfathomable love and amazing salvation through song.
Free admission to Branson Jammin’ for Jesus with a donation to benefit Ozark Mountain Music Association (OMMA). Kari Garrison is not only our special
guest this month, she also happens to be the President of the Board of OMMA. Through her guidance, along with many other Branson musicians and entertainers, this camp guides young people into the world of music. They are keeping the Ozark music alive and well for generations to come. We will be collecting individually wrapped
snacks to help supplement the food they provide for the 50 kids attending camp. ‘Teen approved’ snacks such as individually wrapped Little Debbie or Hostess snacks, snack crackers, Chex mix, cookies, fruit snacks and granola bars are appreciated, as well as cash donations to help fund scholarships to children who can’t afford
the camp. We are honored to be able to help support Kari and the music camp through your generous donations. Jammin’ for Jesus concerts are always free and no one is turned away. A love offering will be taken. For more information email: bransonj4j@gmail. com or visit www.bransonjamminforjesus.com
Music fest gives travel planners a taste of Branson shows
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Travel planners, group leaders and others that are considering bringing group business to Branson got a sneak peek of what the music mecca has to offer during last week’s Branson Music Fest.
Hosted by the Branson Travel Planning Association, the Music Fest was well attended.
“We had another successful event, with nearly 1,000 each day attending,” said Toyea Youngblood of the Branson Travel Planning Association. “Over 100 tour operators, travel agents and group leaders were present. Three days after the event, and group business has already been
booked as a result of their attendance at Music Fest. This is the optimal showcase for planners of travel to Branson.”
Youngblood noted that this year’s Music Fest saw several group travel planners that had never before visited the Ozarks and were eager to see what Branson has to offer.
A stellar lineup of performers took place in this year’s Music Fest, in two
big shows. Friday’s show featured Hot Rods and High Heels, Acrobats of Shanghai, Colton Cooper, On Fire - the Jerry Lee Experience, SIX, Queens of Soul, a Garth Tribute, Nashville Roadhouse Live and Clay Cooper’s Country Express.
Performing on Saturday was Doug Gabriel’s Ultimate Variety Show, Branson’s Famous Baldknobbers, The Carpenters Once
12 pm & 6 PM see it 6 stories tall
Soar with in a NEW documentary featuring never-before-seen footage that chronicles a year with the Navy’s elite Flight Demonstration Squadron—from selection through the challenging training & demanding show season— showcasing the extraordinary teamwork, passion & pride that fuels America’s best, The get your tickets now bransonimax.com
More, A Neil Diamond Tribute, #1 Hits of the ‘60s, Absolutely Country - Definitely Gospel, Rick McEwen, Cassandre and The Haygoods.
“The artists and entertainers that performed in Music Fest did an outstanding job representing the vast array of live talent that is available on Branson stages,” said Youngblood. “Each group gave audience members a great taste of
their individual show. Each set filled the state with topnotch entertainment.”
Proceeds from the 13th Annual Music Fest will be used to market Branson and the Ozark Mountain region to tour operators, travel agents and group leaders.
Planning is already underway for next year’s Music Fest, set for April 24 and 25, 2026. Tickets for next year’s event will go on sale this fall.
The Rogue Chef: Biscuits and Chocolate Gravy BY CHEF JEFF WOODWARD, The Rogue Chef
until it’s no longer sticky on the outside, but still slightly moist on the inside.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9x13inch baking dish with
Sift the flour into a medium sized bowl. Stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is fully combined.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead the dough a few times
COMPILED BY JANET
STEINKAMP, Editor
The time is here to enjoy your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, rhubarb and asparagus that are now in season. The
StateoftheOzarks Farmers Market opens Saturday, May 3, at 10 a.m., at Vintage Paris Coffee, 7900 Historic Highway 165, Hollister (across from the Branson Scenic Overlook). The Farmers Market will be open each Saturday from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. through October (weather permitting).
At press time: According to Joshua Heston, strawberries, rhubarb, asparagus, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and more will be at this weekend’s farmers’ market. For weekly produce updates and news, follow
StateoftheOzarks Farmers Market at https://www.facebook.com/StateoftheOzarksFarmersMarket.
Support any of the other local food producers
through area farmers’ markets, including the Forsyth Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market located at 11048 E. St. Hwy. 76 in Forsyth. The Market is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, starting May 3 and continuing through the second Saturday in December.
Here are a few popular recipes that contain seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Easy and Fresh Strawberry Pie
4. Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out individual biscuits, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
5. Brush the tops of the biscuits with a little extra whipping cream for a golden finish.
2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup water
1 package (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
• Whipped cream, optional
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 450°. Unroll crust into a 9-in. pie plate. Trim edge. Line un-pricked crust with a double thickness of heavy-duty foil or parchment. Bake 8 minutes. Remove foil; bake 5 minutes longer. Cool on a wire rack.
With fresh strawberries, this recipe is as pretty as it is delicious! It’s easy to prepare, too!
INGREDIENTS
1 sheet refrigerated pie crust
• 3/4 cup sugar
2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and water until smooth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in gelatin until dissolved. Refrigerate until slightly cooled, 1520 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, arrange strawberries in the crust. Pour gelatin mixture over berries. Refrigerate until set. If desired, serve with whipped cream. Rhubarb Upside Down
Cake This is a wonder-
ful cake—juicy, tart and sweet—to bake when rhubarb is in season and available at farmers markets or home grown. Fresh or frozen rhubarb works well if
you make the cake out of season.
INGREDIENTS
• 3 cups sliced fresh or frozen rhubarb
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
Batter:
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, room temperature 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup 2% milk
• Sweetened whipped cream, optional
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place rhubarb in a greased 10-in. cast-iron or other heavy ovenproof skillet.
2. Combine sugar, flour and nutmeg; sprinkle over rhubarb. Drizzle with butter.
3. For batter, in a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until blended. Beat in the egg. Combine the flour, baking powder, nutmeg and salt. Gradually add to egg mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition.
4. Spread over rhubarb mixture. Bake at 350° until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.
5. Loosen edge immediately and invert onto a serving dish. Serve warm. If desired, serve with whipped cream.
7. Make the chocolate gravy, while the biscuits are baking.
8. Combine the sugar, cocoa, and flour in a saucepan. Stir them together until well mixed.
9. Gradually whisk in the milk, cinnamon, salt, vanilla and butter.
10. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Bake the biscuits for 12-15 minutes, or until they are a light golden brown on top.
(Photo by Kristina Vanni for Taste of Home)
Lemon Roasted Asparagus
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pounds fresh asparagus,
trimmed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
4 teaspoons grated lemon zest
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 425°. Place asparagus in a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan.
2. Mix remaining ingredients; drizzle over asparagus. Toss to coat.
3. Roast until crisp-tender, 8-12 minutes.
Parmesan Asparagus
With only four ingredients, this is simple to prepare.
INGREDIENTS
4 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1/4 pound butter, melted 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°. In a large saucepan, bring 1/2 inch of water to a boil. Add asparagus; cover and boil for 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain.
11. Remove the saucepan from the heat, once the gravy has thickened.
12. Spoon the warm chocolate gravy over the biscuits and serve.
Want The Rogue Chef to make a delicious meal for you? Contact him at www. TheRogueChef.com .
1-1/2
1-1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400°. Place asparagus, tomatoes and pine nuts (if used) on a foil-lined 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Mix 2 tablespoons oil, garlic, salt and pepper; add to asparagus and toss to coat.
2. Bake 15-20 minutes or just until asparagus is tender. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon oil and lemon juice; sprinkle with cheese and lemon zest. Toss to combine. Baked Sweet Potato A delicious and nutritious alternative to regular po-
or
2. Arrange asparagus in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Drizzle with butter; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pepper. Bake, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted. Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes INGREDIENTS
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
Squire Lee was an old country gentleman who lived on a sloping hillside above the river. His home was not far from the little cabin where my dad spent much of his childhood. In the river below his old two-story home was a deep eddy with a giant rock sticking out of it. Dad and I always had permission to drive through Mr. Lee’s land to fish there. Some 20to 40-pound flathead catfish had been taken from the river around the big rock.
• FOOD Continued from page 8B
Continued from page 4B
what he grew up with and threw in what the people are wanting to see and hear today, and he has created a great show with all of his singers and musicians. The singers that appear are some top-notch vocalists
• BOB FORD
Continued from page 4B
a major Kansas City Law firm who was executor of a moderate size trust. The trust received a $90,000 refund one year from the IRS. The lawyer then endorsed the check and wrote “payable to the IRS,” with his name and social security number written on the reverse side, mailing it back to the IRS. In other words,
Outdoors with Larry Dablemont: The storm at Squire Lee’s
In May of 1964 I had turned 16 years old and could drive my dad’s old 1950 pickup. So, one Saturday in May of ’64, I, and brothers Tom and Roy Wayne Morton, cooked up a trotlining trip. We had a canvas tarpaulin that would cover the rack on the pickup, and I found an old mattress in Grandpa McNew’s barn. We could sleep periodically in the bed of the truck while running trotlines during the night. So we put the mattress in first, then the johnboat, and then loaded gear and groceries and headed for the river to yank out some of those flathead catfish.
The Morton brothers and I seldom got to skip church on Sunday unless it was for fishing. Proclaiming sickness didn’t always work. So we were awfully happy that Saturday morning bouncing toward the river in that old pickup with the sun shining brightly and birds singing from the
roadsides. Most 16-year-old boys back then were looking forward to taking a girl to the movies on Saturday night but not me. I was addicted to the river! Not only that, I wasn’t blessed with the finances for such a Saturday night, nor was I blessed with the looks to convince a girl to go with me to the movies even if I found a free one!
We drove down past Squire Lee’s big, old two-story home to the river bottom where we unloaded the boat beneath a big old sycamore and set up camp.
We had ourselves a baloney sandwich with an RC Cola and some chocolate cupcakes and then loaded the trotline gear to head downriver.
The first rumble of thunder came while we were seining minnows about 500 yards downstream from the pickup two hours later. Just after that, the darkening
skies told me to retreat to the big cave above the river nearby. Flashes of lightning to the southwest began to worry me. We pulled the old johnboat way up on the bank and tied it, and I headed up the slope behind Tom and Roy Wayne. Halfway there I encountered an old barbwire fence and straddled it in my wet swimsuit and wet shoes. Just then a bolt of lightning streaked down upstream from where we were, and I felt numb all over as I tried to get myself up off the ground. I realized that I had been the victim of a lightning strike, and I realized that while I was hurting everywhere. I wasn’t dead!
I had remembered Ol’ Bill and Ol’ Jess at the pool hall talking about how a lightning bolt didn’t always kill a feller and that in the aftermath of such a calamity, folks who lived were sometimes reduced to being not as
smart as they were or much smarter than they had been.
I am not sure that a kid who would reach out and grab a fence in a lightnin’ storm could get much dumber. The proof that I was smarter could be seen in the rapidness with which I gained the awaiting cave shelter, where I quickly started going over algebraic equations I never thought I would remember. And another thing I remember is that my long hair from that time had lifted my cap up an inch or two above my forehead.
So, there we were a good quarter mile below our camp at Squire Lee’s home in a raging storm about midway through what had been a great Saturday afternoon. Decisions had to be made.
Thankfully, we had covered our mattress with the tarp so it should remain dry, as well as our quilts, stored in garbage bags. BUT… if the river rose
ten feet it would reach the back of the pickup and all our breakfast eggs and baloney and Little Debbie cupcakes would be washed down the river. I was more worried about that truck of Dad’s. If it got washed down the river, I would just as well go with it. On the bravery side I could leave Tom and Roy Wayne and get in the boat and paddle upriver against the rising current in that storm, dodging broken limbs and lightning bolts and move the pickup, if it wasn’t stuck in the mud. On the not-sobrave-but-smarter side I could stay in the safety of the dry secure cave. Would my as yet unseen bravery come through or would I use the increased intelligence that lightning bolt had given me and stay put. In next week’s column you can read the exciting conclusion to this true account of the storm on the river.
4. Bake 45-50 minutes or until fork-tender. Serve with desired toppings. (Recipes from tasteofhome. com)
and the musicians are some of the finest in town. All of them have backgrounds in other music and bands and bring the talent to the stage here. On any show that you may attend of theirs you will find musicianship and vocalist that want to be onstage strutting their stuff
he used the trust’s refund to pay his own personal income tax! We found him guilty and suspended his license before he hit the elevator, all while he protested vehemently. The accused could not believe he was even being questioned— how dare us!
These people who think the rules don’t apply to them, get me. Politicians, athletes, lawyers and other self-ab-
and it shows, whether it’s the main people or “fillins” for the show. When John and I attended, they had a couple of fill-ins, but they have played with the Baldknobbers in the past and you wouldn’t have known any difference if it would not have been told
sorbed narcissists seem to adhere to the Richard Petty creed, “if you’re not cheat’en, you’re not trying.”
Then there’s Bernie Madoff: He took the art of the scam to another level. His claim to infamy status is the $65 billion Ponzi Scheme he ran for years, conning friends and institutions with incredible returns. Again, relying on man’s continued quest for
from the stage.
Mayham will have you belly laughing at the comedy and there is audience participation, so be prepared! You may even want to bring a tissue to wipe away laughter tears. What a great way to spend a couple of hours. Whether you
more money and status.
Someone told me if you cheat on your wife the first time you beat yourself up, but the more indiscretions you have the easier they are to get over. I think that applies to con artists too.
Once discovered, Madoff had ruined thousands of friends and others’ economic lives through his greed and attempt to preserve his per-
choose the vintage or current show you will not be disappointed, or just make plans to see both as it will be completely different shows with the same wonderful talent onstage. To do two completely different shows takes a lot of talent, so give it a try! Go help them celebrate 66 consecutive years of performance in Branson. See baldknobbers.com, call 417-231-4999, or visit the Hughes Brothers Theatre, 3425 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson for show schedule and ticket information.
ceived geniuses. The Madoff family was in on the scam, most went to prison, one committed suicide while his wife, I remember, complained about the style in which she now had to live. Reminded me of my favorite KC attorney – ”how dare you!”
John Law, Bernie Madoff, Jacob and that Kansas City lawyer are examples; throughout history people
remained fixated on wealth and social position, trading in a principled upbringing and accepted morals. Many of these people considered themselves religious, but it’s innate to strive to better oneself. Where these scammers went off the rail was when their financial and social climbing came at the devastating expense of the innocent.
• JOHN & LUANNA
PUBLIC NOTICE: The Taney County Board for the Developmentally Disabled is accepting self-nominations to fill pending vacancy on the Board of Directors. Interested persons should complete the online application found at taneycounty.org under Live: Commission Application for Board Position (SB40). Please contact Troy W. Rasmussen, Executive Director, at 417-335-4135 or by mail at 1533 E. State Hwy. 76, Ste. 1, Branson, MO 65616, or email trasmussen@taneydds.com for further information.
lassifieds
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!
GRIEF SHARE: Branson United Methodist Church (1208 W. 76 Country Blvd.) will begin GRIEF SHARE CLASSES on Tues. March 4, at 1:30 p.m. in the church library. There will also be a 5 p.m. class for those who work. BOTH CLASSES will be on TUESDAYS. Grief is a journey we all travel, and coming together helps us realize others have the same questions and doubts! EVERYONE is welcome!! This is a 13-week support group and there is NO CHARGE. For questions, please call Peggy at 641-919-1533.
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.
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 417955-2513 or email mark.applegate@senioragemo.org.
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.
SERVICES OFFERED
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE. Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417-6991635.
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
PUPPIES: 13 weeks old. Healthy. Exceptional qual
ity, vaccinated and well socialized. Three blacks, one gold, both male and female. $600 ea. It doesn’t cost a thing to look. 417-230-5775 Branson/ Hollister.
FOR
CLEANING SERVICE serving all Tri-Lakes area. Residential, commercial, construction and resorts. Call 417-527-3340. GOLDENDOODLE
RENT 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
TO
or large dogs. Call or text Carolyn at 417-337-0398 and leave
FORSYTH CITY-WIDE
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 $17.25!
- 5pm Monday to Friday
1
1 BR STARTING @ $615/MO
2 BR STARTING @ $725/MO
Furnished Units, Carports & Lakeviews
Available CALL 417-546-3334
Shepherd of the Hills Estates www.soheapts.com
COMPANY: If you enjoy a quiet, relaxed office environment this could be the job for you! Knowledge of Mac System is a plus. Need to have good phone etiquette, customer service. Must be able to work Monday thru Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Will eventually work into other office responsibilities. Paid weekly. If you love to help assist others, then please call to schedule a time to fill out an application and set an interview. Contact Misty, 417300-9301.
MR. GILBERTI’S PLACE. Need P.M. pasta cook and prep cook. Fun, working atmosphere. Come in and fill out an application. 1451 Acacia Club Rd., Hollister.
HELP WANTED: Looking for someone who can help with a remodel. Must have your own tools and transportation. Call 417-712-4115.
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49. Give pleasure to 51. Healthy and vigorous 53. Director Preminger 54. Pitches in 57. Scratch (out)
58. Dangerous current 61. Dan Aykroyd film, and a hint to the starts of 18and 38-Across and 3- and 30-Down
63. Singer Della 65. Quaker’s addressee 66. Buttress, with “up” 67. Surprise victory 68. Blubbers 69. JFK or LBJ, once 70. Crowns Down 1. Monterrey money 2. Turkish title 3. Waver at a crossroads 4. Bottom line in the fashion world?
5. Film daredevils
6. “Heavens!”
7. Massachusetts’s “other” cape 8. Unemotional 9. 17th-century Dutch painter
10. Falco who plays Carmela in “The Sopranos”
On this date in history...
• 1885 “Good Housekeeping” magazine is first published in the U.S. 1918 General Motors acquires the Chevrolet Motor Company of Delaware
• 1920 First game of National Negro Baseball League played in Indianapolis
• 1932 Pulitzer Prize for Literature awarded to novelist Pearl S. Buck for “The Good Earth,” the first American woman to win
• 1933 In Germany, Adolf Hitler bans trade unions
• 1974 Former Vice President Spiro Agnew is disbarred
• 1980 Pope John Paul II begins his African tour
• 1999 John Elway announces his retirement from the NFL
• 2000 President Bill Clinton announces that accurate GPS access would no longer be restricted to the United States military
11. Some whistle blowers
12. Farm crawlers
15. Admit 19. Social engagement 22. Org. that helps get you going
25. Slip up 26. Pollen reaction 27. Mercury and Saturn
28. Speculative words
30. Site of many needles
31. Atlanta university
32. Rhode Island layers
33. Woman seduced by Zeus
35. Barely allowing access
39. Ragtime dance
40. Be extra nice to
43. Cultural surroundings
46. Perch (on)
48. Step on it
50. Hunky-dory
52. Old Russian oppressors
54. Takes the bull by the horns
55. London locale
56. Stuffed shirt
57. Airer of many games
59. “So that’s how it is!”
60. Favorites in class
62. Rabbit mom
64. 1972 DDT banner
• 2011 Osama bin Laden, the suspected mastermind behind the September 11 attacks and the FBI’s Most Wanted man, is killed by U.S. special forces
• 2018 Iowa passes U.S. strictest abortion ban, based on a fetal heartbeat
• 2023 Forty-year-old weight loss company, Jenny Craig, announces it will close after failing to secure further financial backing
Sudoku
See more fun puzzles at: https://www.puzzles.ca/sudoku/
Last week’s Sudoku solution
A is for... from Beck Museums of Branson
• AUNT ARMY
• APPLE ARENA
• ANNOY
• ARRIVAL
• AVERAGE
• AVOCADO ANNIVERSARY
• ATHLETIC AIRPLANE
• ARCHIVE
• ALMANAC
• AWKWARD
• ACROBATIC AGGRAVATE
• ADVENTURE ARCHITECTURE
• ARCHAIC
• APPROVAL
• ALABASTER
• APPLIANCE APPALOOSA
• ATTENDANCE AMENDMENT
• ARCHEOLOGIST
• ANTHROPOLOGIST
