Bransons’ newest fire station, Station 4, on Champagne Drive off of Taney County 165 and Highway 165 held its grand opening with a ceremony and open
house at the Station on May 1, 2024. The $5 million dollar project was completed on time and within budget.
“The opening of this important station marks years of planning that we prioritized to move forward with action,
Concerned citizens across Missouri, including both Taney and Stone County, are continuing to work toward ballot measures for property tax relief for senior citizens. Senate Bill 190, approved by the Missouri legislature and signed by Governor Parson in 2023, includes the property tax assessment freeze along with other measures to reduce financial burdens on seniors. However, that portion of the bill must be approved on a county-by-county basis, either by vote of the county commissioners or by a percentage of registered voters signing a petition requesting the issue be placed on an upcoming ballot. In Taney County, petition signatures exceeding the required minimum percentage of registered voters have been verified
by the county clerk’s office as of April 29, and the County Commission will add the ballot approval as a meeting agenda item in the near future.
Petition efforts have also recently begun in Stone County, where resident Denise Tomanek is spearheading the effort. Volunteers as well as petition signers are needed, to help meet the goal of 1,100 signatures before July, in order to allow time for verification to place the measure on the ballot in November 2024.
Tomanek needs additional volunteers to distribute and collect petitions, as well as business owners willing to place a petition at their location.
To volunteer, suggest or offer a location, or to clarify any questions about the bill’s content, Denise Tomanek at 678-367-4502 or email seniorsneedabreak@ gmail.com.
construction and completion,” said Branson Mayor Larry Milton. “In approximately one year, we have gone from groundbreaking to the upcoming grand opening. This is one of several projects the current city ad-
ministration is giving high priority, fast track attention,” said the Mayor. Branson Fire Chief, Ted Martin, gives a lot of the credit to their construction team, “Construction LLC.”
He said, “Once the archi-
tects completed the plans and the city released the contract, they had a 300-day Gant Chart, day per day per day, laid out and they hit it all. This project was on time on budget!”
SEE STATION 4,
10A
‘Concert for Conservation’ gives a sneak peek at Thunder RidgeBY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Nearly two years after country superstar Garth Brooks took the stage at the beautiful Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, the exquisite venue is again open for business.
Much improvement has been done in and around the arena to make it even more user-friendly, including increased parking, improved roads to the venue, safer
walkways and much more.
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena is offering locals a sneak peek at their improvements with a fun-filled concert event on May 21. Billed as a Concert for Conservation, the proceeds from the event will benefit conservation efforts to protect the wildlife, the land and the natural habitats of the Ozarks area. The upcoming event
features music from Chris Janson, John
the Ozark
The Petersens and Clay
The exciting evening also includes an air show, parachuting flag ceremony and a family-friendly fan zone. Tickets for the May 21 event are only $10 per person, and there is no charge for parking. The concert SEE ARENA, PAGE 3A
Submitted to Branson Globe
On Tuesday, April 23, El-
evate Branson celebrated the spring graduates from the Elevate Entrepreneurs program. The 12-week course is designed for individuals who desire to own a small for-profit business. Students meet three hours per week, with an additional hour per week of focused business work outside of class.
“Some people would call it homework, but in reality, it’s taking what we learn in class and applying it to your business,” said Chris Hunter, VP of Operations at Elevate Branson and co-director of Elevate Entrepreneurs. “It’s the things that we need to do, but often don’t get around to doing.” For instance, after learning about pricing strategies, students are assigned to research possible competitors and look at their pricing, decide on their own initial pricing, and then make revenue projections.
Throughout the class, students are introduced to several individuals in the community who will contribute significant expertise
and whose services will be needed:
An accountant who explains the importance of keeping personal and business finances separate
A banker who explains how to open a business account
• A lawyer to explain and discuss the benefits of different business classifications like LLCs and S-Corps
• An insurance company that will discuss the types of coverage that might be needed
Some of the class topics include these important aspects of business ownership:
• Business idea feasibility Basic business cycle
• P&L statements
• Basic bookkeeping
Budgeting
• Cash flow management
The class is led by college professors, and volunteers from the community act as financial coaches and marketing coaches.
The Spring 2024 graduation included 10 Elevate Entrepreneurs with some SEE ENTREPRENEURS, PAGE 10A
Each year, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation hosts a Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to honor firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Family members of those heroes, as well as families of those lost in years past, gather in recognition and remembrance of the service and sacrifice made by their loved ones.
The special weekend includes opportunities for connection and sharing of stories, as newly bereaved
families are greeted at the hotel by returning families, who escort and assist them in activities such as creating a tribute video and making a rubbing of the plaque that will be added to a Memorial Wall. A family day at the Memorial Park, a candlelight ceremony, and a special Memorial Service, at which families receive an American flag, are also part of the weekend. Fire fighters who lost a colleague also attend to participate in the Fire Service, as escorts to families.
Communities nationwide are invited to participate in
the Weekend by watching the Candlelight Service at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, and the Memorial Service at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 5, 2024, online at the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation website [https:// weekend.firehero.org] and on social media channels.
Other suggestions for communities wishing to honor fallen firefighters include these:
Sign up for Bells Across America on May 5, as communities and individuals across the nation pause in honor and tribute; Light the Night in Red:
From May 1 through 5, light up homes, landmarks and businesses in support and tribute;
• Sound the Sirens: Many fire stations across the country will sound their sirens at noon on Sunday, May 5;
• Lower the American flag; Sign the virtual Remembrance Banner; Issue a community proclamation. Visit the Foundation website for more details about any of these suggestions and to sign up to show your individual or community support.
Bransonmo.gov
With the objective to help ensure sellers of alcohol are responsibly minimizing risks of selling to minors or intoxicated customers, the City of Branson is hosting a Responsible Alcohol Selling class June 6, 2024.
Classes will begin at 2:30 p.m. and take approximately two hours on May 2 and June 6.
• The location of the classes is Branson City Hall, Council Chambers. The training is conducted by the Community Partnership of the Ozarks. Classes are offered at no
cost.
Participants are not required to register for the class.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow plenty of time for registration.
“It is important that people who own, operate and work in businesses that sell alcohol, or those in the process of obtaining a liquor license, attend this free training,” said City of Branson License Compliance Manager, Matthew Henry.
Under City code, liquor license holders are required to provide alcohol education programs for all man-
agers, servers, bartenders and cashiers that sell alcoholic beverages within 60 days of their hire date and every two years thereafter.
The training topics include state and local alcohol laws, how to properly check IDs, how to detect fake IDs, best practices for avoiding illegal sale/ service of alcohol and the importance of compliance checks.
“We want to help educate business owners and their staff members to understand that following these laws is critical to operations, and repercussions for
missteps, even those accidental or due to carelessness, can be severe,” said Henry. “We want to do all we can to assist responsible sellers of alcohol to minimize the risks of selling to those under the age of 21 and intoxicated buyers.” Although this class is designed to fulfill the training requirements for the City of Branson, servers and cashiers from neighboring communities are also welcome to attend. For more information: Call business license contact: 417-337-8551 or businesslicense@bransonmo. gov
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Branson Convention Center, managed by ASM Global, is gearing up to host a series of dynamic events that will not only bring diverse and thrilling experiences to the community but also generate a positive economic impact for local businesses.
Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast, May 2, 2024
Join us for the Ozark Mountain Prayer Breakfast at the Branson Convention Center on National Day of Prayer!
Featuring Guest Speaker Darryl Burton, the ‘Miracle Man,’ this event hosted by Ozark Mountain Legacy promises an unforgettable morning with over 1,000 attendees expected. Mark your calendars for a powerful gathering of faith and community. Teach Them Diligently, May 16-18, 2024
For the past 13 years, Teach Them Diligently has worked to focus families on the Kingdom impact of the work they do within their homes every
single day. We believe that as believers, we are all called to share Jesus’ love and make disciples everywhere we go, and for Christian parents, the Great Commission Begins At Home. Your mission is to bring your children to Jesus and to prepare them well to follow Him all their days. Home education is a great tool for accomplishing that mission as it gives you time, conversations and intentionality. That’s why this year’s theme for our events and through our media all year long will focus on the fact that our Mission is Greater. It’s greater than curriculum, co-op, academics, influence, worksheets, finances, health struggles—and even our own limitations—because the One Who has called us is greater! ACO Branson Major & Pro Series Event, May 26 and 27, 2024 Attention Cornhole Enthu-
siasts! Join us at the Branson Convention Center for the ACO Branson Major & Pro Series Event, this Memorial Day Weekend! Witness top-tier cornhole players battle it out for a chance to advance to the prestigious ACO Worlds in July, hosted in Owensboro, KY. Don’t miss the action-packed excitement! The Branson Convention Center is committed to fostering a thriving local economy through the hosting of these events. We encourage businesses to take advantage of the increased visitor numbers and diverse audience demographics to promote their products and services. For more information about these events or to explore partnership opportunities, please contact Jordan Cannefax, Director of Sales and Marketing, Branson Convention Center, jcannefax@bransoncc.com
Submitted to Branson Globe Silver Dollar City will keep the title No. 1 Theme Park in America, winning this year’s USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for a second consecutive year. The City took the top spot in a competitive field of 20 nominees including Disney, Universal and SeaWorld properties. Nominees were chosen by industry experts and then voted on by fans during a rigorous, four-week voting period.
“We are so thankful for
our loyal, enthusiastic fans who visit us and vote for us,” said Brad Thomas, president of the Silver Dollar City Company. “Our guests could travel to other states and other parks but choose to spend their family time making memories with us here in the Ozarks. Our Citizens strive to create unforgettable fun for folks. Their hospitality provides families an escape from daily routines and the opportunity to grow closer together as they experience our re-
cord-breaking rides, one-ofa-kind shows, award-winning festivals, homemade food and authentic culture in this breathtaking mountain setting.”
Silver Dollar City also received a second national nod in USA TODAY’s annual readers’ poll. The Rivertown Ramblers ranked No. 2 for Best Theme Park Entertainment. The toe-tappin’ show takes audiences on a joyful journey jampacked with the sounds of Dixieland Jazz with a
unique twist. Silver Dollar City is an internationally awarded, 1880s theme park just outside Branson, Mo. The Ozark Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for the park’s 40 rides and attractions, including the all-new Fire In The Hole — the largest indoor family coaster in the Heartland. Designated the “Home of American Craftsmanship” by U.S. Congress, The City also boasts a colony of more than 100 resident craftsmen
In a post on social media, Branson Alderman Marshall Howden shared that a favorite Branson eatery is closing.
Said Howden, in a Facebook post, “I have bad news and I have good news. The sad news is that Dino is closing up his Carrot Cake Shop.”
Dino’s 24 Karrot Cake Shoppe, known for delectable desserts, particularly his
Carrot Cake and Red Velvet Cake, opened in 2011. The shop specialized in tantalizing sweets, but also featured a variety of breakfast and lunch items and beverages. Owner Dino Kartsonakis, a world-renowned pianist, along with his talented wife, Cheryl, often made appearances at the shop, much to the delight of their fans.
Dino’s Cake Shoppe had operated in multiple locales,
including the Branson Landing, however, most recently, Dino’s Cake Shoppe was situated at 104 East Main Street in downtown Branson.
A piece of Dino’s 24 Karrot Cake Shoppe will remain, however, according to Howden, who continued in his Facebook post, stating, “However, out of the kindness of his (Dino’s) heart, he called me and offered his sign up for our neon sign
backlot at the Song of Hope Museum.”
Dino’s sign joins the Baldknobbers Motor Inn sign, Jim Stafford’s iconic guitar sign, and many other pieces of Branson history at the unique museum that celebrates Branson’s rich musical history. The Song of Hope Museum is located at the Coffelt Country Craft Village, at 673 State Highway 165 in Branson.
On June 9, 2024, Vet -
erans of the Ozarks and the Kimberling City Elks are teaming up to hold a fundraiser to support the Kimberling City K9 Police Officers, “Zesta” and “Sig.” The care and feeding of the Department’s two K9 officers is presently underfunded, with the K9 officers’ handlers footing the bill for food, veterinary care and other aspects of their
• ARENA
Continued from page 1A
event is slated to begin at 5:30 .pm.
Other upcoming concerts include Morgan Wallen (May 25), Chris Stapleton (June 13), Luke
well-being. The planned fundraiser aligns with the goals of VOTO and the Elks in terms of community involvement, as both organizations are committed to seeing needs and finding ways to meet them, particularly needs involving those who have served or presently serve our country and keep our communities safe. “It is not uncommon to find that K9 officers in general are supported mainly by com-
Bryan (July 27) and Slightly Stoopid and Dirty Heads (August 31). An air show and other events are also on the Thunder Ridge Nature arena schedule for 2024. For tickets or more in-
munity donations in other areas,” said VOTO officers in a social media post. “Therefore, we are stepping up to assist in closing the budget gap to ensure our K9 officers receive their basic needs.”
This entertaining and worthwhile evening will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 37 Beach Blvd. in Kimberling City. Cost is just $300 for a table of eight. Activities will include the following:
• A picnic-style chicken dinner
• K9 Officer demonstration
Rounds of police/military movie trivia
Live and silent auctions
• 50/50 drawing Space is limited to 15 tables, so get your trivia experts together, form a team, and make your reservations soon! For reservations or more information, call Dave “Mac” McAllister at 417-230-1283.
demonstrating blacksmithing, glassblowing, pottery, furniture making and more, utilizing crafting methods of yesteryear.
Silver Dollar City kicks off its Bluegrass & BBQ Festival on May 2, followed by the Ozark Mountain Summer Celebration from June 8 to August 4. Other family-friendly festivals throughout the year include a scare-free Harvest Festival with tens of thousands of illuminated pumpkins spanning the streets during
Pumpkins In The City. The park really glows in November and December for
An Old Time Christmas, six-time winner of USA TODAY’s 10Best “Best Theme Park Holiday Event” with more than 6.5 million lights lining nearly every board of every building. An operating calendar, along with more information, can be found at silverdollarcity.com or by downloading the free Silver Dollar City app on any mobile device.
Recently, it happened again.
I encountered a person who is considering relocating to the Branson area for retirement. They were looking forward to the proximity to lakes, the beautiful scenery, and the family-friendly atmosphere, but chatting with them, I learned they hadn’t read The Shepherd of the Hills.
A couple of years ago,
this column urged visitors to Missouri to seek out the classic literature connected with historic sites in the state—including Mark Twain and Hannibal, Laura Ingalls Wilder and Mansfield, and Harold Bell Wright and Branson. Long before the music shows, attractions on “the Strip,” or even Silver Dollar City, Wright found peace and solace in the fresh, clean air and the Ozark Mountains.
He came to love the simple, straightforward ways of the area and the people, especially John and Anna Ross, whose homestead became his campsite and home base as he wrote the book that would become the first novel to break one million copies sold in the United States. The book’s success attracted readers to the Ozarks to experience the views and meet the people for themselves. Not only did it play
an important role in the Branson area’s early tourism, but the emphasis on faith in “Shepherd” and Wright’s other novels is thought by many people to have been influential the continuing values of faith, family and patriotism still prominent in the area today. So, if you haven’t read the novel, do it! As you immerse yourself in Wright’s masterful blending of love, forgiveness and timeless
values, along with mystery, drama and the consequences of both good and bad choices, you’ll see why it was not only popular in 1907 but also continues to receive positive reviews from contemporary readers on online retail sites.
While young children won’t understand all the themes in the book, in this writer’s experience even “tweens” were intrigued by the mystery and suspense as our family read it aloud, and they later read
the book for themselves with greater understanding of how the mystery and action parts set the stage for deeper issues. Copies are available at several area businesses, at major online retailers, and of course, at the Shepherd of the Hills family adventure park, where the owners over the years have done a marvelous job of creating a family experience on the very land where the story happened.
The Library Center of the Ozarks will host a variety of educational and entertaining programs during the month of May. Two of those classes are slated for next week.
Ryan Hanlen, Assistant Vice President of Regions Bank, will host a program entitled “Managing Your Money.” This is the latest
in a series of banking programs presented by Hanlen.
Managing Your Money will be a two-part class, first focusing on budgeting and cashflow.
“Ever feel like there is ‘too much month at the end of the money?’ What about feeling like you have all of the money you need one week and broke the next?” asked Hanlen. “We have
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A longtime Branson business has a new manager and a new name.
The Friends of the Library Book Store, formerly the Taneyhills Library Used Book Store, is located in the
lower level of the Library Center of the Ozarks. The Book Store has been in existence for close to 30 years, having opened shortly after the most recent addition to the library was completed in the mid 1990s. Always pop-
answers for those issues, although they come with some hard questions. The second part of the class will be focused on family conversations about money. According to a recent study, people are more comfortable talking about mental health and politics than money. Although conversations about money can be stressful, having
proactive conversations may help.”
Managing Your Money is set for Wednesday, May 8, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. There is no admission fee.
On May 9, Jenni Nevatt will present Fall Prevention 101.
A Nutrition and Health Specialist with the MU Extension, Nevatt will discuss common causes of
falls and how to prevent them, in this informative program. Nevatt will share pointers on how to stay safe and steady on your feet, and will provide local fall prevention resources. This important program will help keep yourself— or a loved one—safe and healthy.
Fall Prevention 101 is set for Thursday, May 9, 10
a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The program is free to the public. Both programs will be held at the Library Center of the Ozarks, 200 South 4th Street in Downtown Branson. For more information on either event, visit the Library Center of the Ozarks’ website, www.taneyhillscommunitylibrary.org or call 417334-1418.
ular with tourists and locals alike, the Friends of the Library Book Store provides a second life to books that have been gently loved.
“When we receive donations, the Library Manager is the first to review them and see if any can be added to the Library collection,” explained Karen Oswald, the Book Store’s new manager. “Alternately, when the Library weeds out books from their collection, they are given to the Book Store to sell. It is a good partnership for both sides.”
Oswald took over management of the store on April 1. However, she was already familiar with the store and many of its volunteers.
“My background is in administration,” said Oswald. I’ve worked as an Executive Assistant at the President and Vice President level most of my career. I worked as an Executive Assistant at Cox Hospital for five and a half years. After that position, I began work at the former Taneyhills Library, now the Library Center of the Ozarks. I was at the desk for two years and had overlapping tasks with both the Thrift Store and the Book Store, so I am coming in with familiarity with the store.”
Branson Police Department through fundraising and community promotions. She also volunteers with Elevate Branson and holds a part-time job.
Prior to Oswald’s transition into her new position, much of the work in the Book Store fell to Kay Gerken. Kay, who sits on the Friends of the Library Board, served as the President of the Taneyhills Library Board, volunteered in the Library, and spent a great deal of time making sure the Book Store ran smoothly. She was largely responsible for a transformation the Book Store underwent a few years back.
jor book sales. The updating and reorganizing of the Book Store collection was a group effort that paid off with customer compliments and repeat business.”
tomers have truly enjoyed shopping at the Book Store.
“Many of our repeat customers are tourists that come to the Book Store whenever they come to Branson. They love that it is clean and well organized, with friendly volunteers to assist,” said Gerken. “We hope that the residents and visitors alike will continue to come visit the Book Store and see what is new on the shelves.” Oswald plans to keep the store operating in the same manner as in the past.
In addition to accepting the position as Book Store Manager, Oswald is President of the Branson Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, a group of citizens who support the
“In 2019, the Book Store manager’s health was failing, and the store was needing some reorganization and weeding of books that had been on the shelves too long,” Gerken explained. “I took on the project of having three major book sales to give us room to work. During the Covid shutdown, another volunteer, Beth Urich and I revamped the entire Book Store, adding more category sections, signage, etc. Jen Harmon, the Library Manager, gave us insight and recommendations on how to best display the collections according to the public’s interests. I saw my role in the Book Store as a lead volunteer, not really a manager. Many of the volunteers who had been involved with the Book Store many more years than me were willing to pitch in and help with the ma-
Joyce Coogan, President of the Friends of the Library, shared her thoughts on the Friends of the Library Book Store, noting that there is a stark difference in this store. Said Coogan, “We have works of fiction categorized by author, and works of nonfiction, categorized by major topic or interest. Topics range from gardening to politics, religion, war, health, cooking and much more. In addition, we have a large collection of children’s books. One unusual feature of our Book Store is that we have a section for classic and vintage books. Our volunteer clerks welcome customers into the store and help them find the types of books they are interested in. In other words, we function like a full-service book store, but at a greatly reduced price.”
Like many book stores, the Friends of the Library Book Store also offers a variety of games and puzzles, as well as a large selection of DVDs available for sale.
The Book Store has a staff of approximately 20 volunteers, who work the desk, checking out customers, as well as sorting donations and shelving books. Oswald has plans to add more volunteers in the near future, as the Book Store continues to grow, and special events are added. The store is always accepting applications for new volunteers.
Gerken noted that past cus-
Said Oswald, “My intention is to get to know my volunteers, listen to their ideas and comments, hear from them what our guests and customers are saying. Based on those discussions, if there is a trend of something that needs changed or fixed, we will. Also, if there is something that is working well, then we can enhance that and use that as a means to bring in more customers. I have had some volunteers already suggest some program ideas that may bring in customers who have never walked through our doors, so we are actively planning those events. You will be seeing more advertising of the Book Store in print and on social media.”
The Friends of the Library Book Store is a nonprofit entity.
“Funds from the Book Store will be used toward purchases and projects of the Friends of the Library,” Coogan explained. “We are currently assessing how best we can serve the Library Center of the Ozarks, with one idea being to pay for special
On behalf of Stone County Historical Genealogical Society and Museum, we express our sincere thank you for all the donations and help extended to make the “Second Annual Indoor Yard Sale “ a success. Items left were donated to Crane High School Band for their upcoming sale event.
Our travels through Stone County history takes us to Reeds Spring this week.
As the story goes, Reeds Spring got its name when Fitzhugh Reed settled at a spring near the original town site. He operated a farm that he called “Reeds Spring.” Therefore, when the town was officially organized in 1906 it was documented the town be named
“Reeds Spring.” Reeds Spring came to life with the building of the railroad by the Iron Mountain Railway. The White River Railway charter took place in 1901 operating as a single railway. A tunnel had to be made for the tracks to lead from Reeds Spring into Taney County. It took four years with the use of steam drills and dynamite through a solid rock Ozarks hill and approximately 250 men to complete the railroad tunnel. The tunnel measures 18 ft. high and 24 ft. wide. The tunnel is located east of the “Spring.”
At one time Reeds Spring was considered the leading tie center of the United States. The railroad provided a shipping station for the industry of railroad ties before
the railroad ties were shipped by river waterway. Stone County was known for their white oak and hardwood. Men made their living by cutting and hauling railroad ties to Reeds Spring to ship out. Long lines of tie buyers and wagons would fill the small town of Reeds Spring.
During the Depression many people would cut and sell cedar posts, another item that was shipped out by train. When the timber was all cut in 1915, tomato production took over for people to make a living. There were two tomato canning factories in Reeds Spring. This gave women a place of employment. The canned tomatoes were then shipped by the railroad. In 1926 there were 121
boxcars of railroad ties, 16 cars of cedar posts, unspecified cars loaded with walnut logs—all shipped out of Reeds Spring. This was not counting the passenger cars.
In 1945 a garment plant came to Reeds Spring and provided 250 workers a place of employment.
Reeds Spring was considered a boom town. There was a hotel, six grocery stores, mercantile, hardware store, feed store and farm supplies, telephone office, doctors and veterinary, pharmacy, blacksmith shops, school, and then later a Chevrolet agency, movie theater, skating rink. gas stations, restaurants and taverns, bank, and post office.
A school note: In 1947 there were 200 students in
grades 1 through 12. The railroad line runs from Carthage, Missouri, entering north Stone County with Crane, Galena and Reeds Spring directly on the line, and from there into Taney County and on to Cotter, Arkansas. Train Expo Grand Opening Stone County Historical Genealogical Society & Museum, Model Railroad Association will pay tribute to the grand opening of the museum donation of Dry Gulch Model Railroad Display, by official guest Elsa Littleton of Kansas City.
The grand opening will be held Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the historic Museum Event Hall, 117 Main Street, Crane
(across the street from the U.S. Post Office). The public is invited. Speakers for the event include: Ron Bradford, Ozarks Model Railroad Association
• Elsa Littleton, Dry Gulch West Model Railroad
• Mike Sypult, Railroad Historian/Missouri Pacific
Due to the opportunity of the upcoming railroad program, we will be honoring Stone County towns located on the rail line. Train depots were located in Reeds Spring, Galena and Crane in Stone County. This gives us a way to celebrate the history of what put Stone County on the map.
music!” Jost declares.
Submitted to Branson Globe
BOHEMIAN QUEEN
hailed as “The World’s
Most Passionate Queen Tribute” will be at the historic Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts in Branson, 189 Expressway Ln., on May 18 at 8 p.m., bringing their high-energy, family-friendly stage show for this special one-night only event!
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Queen’s first tour of America, this epic ‘LIVE Through the Years’ show begins with Queen’s early songs from that first tour, before moving through the decades of mega hits we all know and love.
Based in Los Angeles, the band features famed rocker Paulie Z who hypnotically recreates the Freddie Mercury experience. He is also known for his work as frontman for The Sweet, ZO2, and the star of TV series Z Rock. A who’s who of Hollywood’s elite completes the band’s musical odyssey: Glenn Jost, Steve Zukowsky, Aaron Samson and Victor Bender. Their
combined resume includes projects with Steven Adler of Guns N’ Roses, John 5 of Motley Crue, George Lynch, former members of Boston, and Queen’s touring members.
Together they form what is regarded as one of the country’s most authentic sounding and visually exciting recreations of Queen as they faithfully perform their bombastic, operatic hits with incredible attention to detail.
Drummer Glenn Jost, whose family have been
House of Hope is hosting a Trivia Night.
Set for 6 to 8: 30 p.m. on May 25, the Trivia Night will be a fun-filled evening and a chance to test your knowledge.
“As Michael Scott says, ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’ Take a shot at the House of Hope’s First Annual Trivia Night,”
said House of Hope’s Alex Sprinkle. “Find your best office-themed costume and meet us there! The final round will be all things The Office.”
Cost for the Trivia Night is $25 per person and pre-payment is encouraged. Teams are made up of eight players.
“We are encouraging pre-payments to secure your seats,” noted Sprinkle. “Pre-pay-
ments can be made through House of Hope’s Venmo @ doorsofhope. Paypal payments can also be made through our website at https://houseofohopebranson.org/donate/. Be sure to indicate a team name.”
House of Hope’s Trivia Night will be held at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 203 Vaughn Drive, in Branson.
coming to Branson’s Table Rock Lake area for over 50 years, fell in love with the Ozarks and plans on spending a lot more time here. He recently met up with local community leaders and interviewed on 106.3 KRZK Legends.
“I wanted to bring our full-throttle rock-n-roll concert experience to Branson with the intention of bridging the gaps of ages, ethnicities, political persuasions and families together as ONE, to share in the incredible power and joy of
“There’s no tricks, tracks, or dancing girls, just pure rock n’ roll. We wanted to build our show grassroots-style with the locals in mind, so we can win their trust and keep coming back for years to come!”
Jost adds.
Special ‘locals only’ tickets and family discounts available at Mansion Box Office 417-695-0173
BOHEMIAN QUEEN’s theatrical show includes multiple costume changes showcasing Freddie Mer-
cury’s iconic stage outfits through the years. The band’s stellar performances, fueled by their talent and love of music, are paired with cinematic multimedia production not to be missed.
For anyone looking to relive the grandiose style, music and attitude of classic rock gold, look no further than an evening with BOHEMIAN QUEEN. They will ROCK YOU! For more information, phone 417-695-0173, or visit www.themansiontheatre.com
Submitted to Branson Globe
Black Oak Amp is thrilled to announce that ACM-winner, Tracy Lawrence, is set to take the iconic BOA stage Friday, August 16! (Gates open at 6 p.m.) Tracy Lawrence is one of country music’s truest traditionalists. For 32 remarkable years, Tracy Lawrence has been the soundtrack of our hearts, weaving tales of love, heartache and the rugged beauty of life. With over 13 million albums sold, he’s earned his stripes in the Country Mu-
sic Hall of Fame. His voice, like a well-worn pair of boots, carries the weight of countless stories, each note resonating with authenticity. In addition to his chart-topping success, he hosts the Award-nominated nationally syndicated radio show “Honky Tonkin with Tracy Lawrence.” His impact on country music continues as his new EP “Out Here In It” will release in June! For all news Tracy Lawrence, go here: TracyLawrence.com So, grab your tickets, ral-
ly your friends, because this night promises to be legendary. For ticket information, https://blackoakamp.com/ upcoming-shows-events/ For more information about this concert and upcoming concerts visit www. BlackOakAmp.com or like us on Facebook @ Black Oak Amphitheater Facebook Lawrence (Photo submitted)
Submitted to Branson Globe Lake Taneycomo is aging. Estimated to have a life span of 100 years, it has surpassed its deadline by just over a decade. The aging of water bodies can be determined by various natural and human-induced factors, such as pollution, sedimentation and nutrient loading—all of which cause water quality to decline.
In 1994 Lake Taneycomo was listed as an impaired water body on Missouri’s 303(d) list. This list identifies water bodies—like rivers, lakes and streams—that aren’t meeting water quality standards, and flags places where the water might be polluted or unhealthy. Lake Taneycomo was flagged for impairment because of low dissolved oxygen (DO) contributions, which increases the mortality of aquatic organisms. Other emerging areas of concern include pollutants, such as nutrients from fertilizers and pesticides; oil, grease, heavy metals, and chemicals from vehicles; bacteria and sediment. Effects from these pol-
lutants include algal blooms, increased vegetation, sedimentation and eutrophication in Lake Taneycomo and the streams and tributaries within the watershed.
“Lake Taneycomo is a treasured asset for our Ozarks. The Lake declines slowly, which makes it easy to believe it will remain the same forever. Our economy and sense of place must be cared for and advocated for. The cost of neglect is simply too high!” Raeanne Presley, former Branson Mayor/Community Leader
Lake Taneycomo is benefiting from collaborative efforts aimed at improving its watershed health. Through an agreement with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Ozarks Environmental and Water Resources Institute (OEWRI) and H2Ozarks have crafted a watershed management plan that seeks to pinpoint sources of pollution, devise effective solutions, and implement protective measures to safeguard the future of the watershed.
Between 2020 and 2023,
H2Ozarks facilitated the planning and organizing of informational meetings with diverse stakeholders in the watershed area. Stakeholders contributed by sharing their local concerns about the watershed, particularly focusing on issues of sedimentation and excessive algae and plant growth in Lake Taneycomo. The involvement of these stakeholders provided a critical component in the development of this watershed management plan.
OEWRI conducted a water quality perceptions survey in 2022 to gauge the general opinions about watershed management, water quality in the Lake Taneycomo watershed, and the relationship it has to tourism and recreation in the area. Hess reported that 78% of respondents were concerned with water quality impairments on Lake Taneycomo.
“We are excited to be the lead on this project. It is important to understand what stressors are placed on water bodies and what efforts we can implement to protect it.” Josh Hess, Research
Specialist, OEWRI
Aimed at demonstrating successful strategies for water quality improvements and protection, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the City of Branson implemented projects to demonstrate effective best management practices (BMPs) that are identified in the proposed plan.
One project, completed by the City of Branson, can be experienced by any of the patrons walking along the Eiserman Park walking path which is next to the Community Center on Compton Drive in Branson. This trail has a porous pavement design that allows water to filter through the pavers instead of running off and transporting pollutants into lake Taneycomo.
The Lewis Family Memorial Conservation Area, a 362-acre site managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, is in the Lower Bull Creek watershed near Merriam Woods. A demonstration project at this site funded efforts to clear valley bottomland of
invasive Johnsongrass for the planting of 12,000 native walnut trees, aiming to expand the riparian buffer zone around a large 5th order stream, Bull Creek, nestled in the Lake Taneycomo watershed.
“This project improved the riparian corridor and reduced excess sediment from soil and bank erosion from entering Bull Creek and is a great example of how proper riparian management can be used to enhance agriculture opportunities through planting harvestable native plants.” Shane Bush, Fisheries Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation.
BMPs, like the ones demonstrated, are needed in critical source areas such as pasture lands, urban areas and the riparian corridors within the watershed to prevent or reduce pollutants from entering waterways. Initially approved at the state level, once accepted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the plan will outline information and recommendations to local governments, businesses and property
owners on what they can do to protect the water quality of Lake Taneycomo. An accepted plan will also make the watershed area eligible for state and federal funding needed to help with educating the public on water quality concerns and aid in the implementation of water quality improvement projects.
Once the plan is accepted, H2Ozarks will continue to facilitate stakeholder meetings, annually, to track progress toward the plan goals.
“We are hopeful that the communities within the watershed make a personal commitment to help improve Lake Taneycomo.” Carin Love, COO, H2Ozarks
OEWRI confirmed the plan has been reviewed at the state level by MO Department of Natural Resources and is now under review with the U.S. EPA. For more information on the Lake Taneycomo Watershed Management Plan, please contact H2Ozarks at contact@H2Ozarks.org or by visiting our website at www.H2Ozarks.org.
gos-
Joey Herd is preparing to release his highly anticipated new single “Anchor Me In,”
later this spring 2024!
Please vote for Joey Herd in the You God’s Music Showcase International Christian Singing Competition through May 5, 2024 at www.YouGodsMusic.org
Joey Herd is the epitome of a Midwestern country boy, putting God first and his family and his fans second. His love for entertaining live audiences and writing songs is nothing short of “real country,” making him relatable to country fans across the nation and around the world. In fact, Joey lives by this quote, “You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him.” -Malcolm S. Forbes.
Joey Herd grew up in Missouri and at age 12 was performing in Branson shows including The American Kids Show and onto the Grand Millennium Celebration Show with The Osmond Brothers, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Show, Andy Williams & Ann-Margret Show and The Promise Show. Joey won the CMA Vocal Competition in Nashville for his cover of Chris Cagle’s “What A Beautiful Day” and Best Original Performance for his own song “Free Ride” and was also named Missouri Entertainer of the Year, where he currently resides and still performs frequently
in the Ozarks as well as on the road traveling around the USA. Joey released his first album, “How It Feels,” in 2014 and the album/CD/ downloads encompass a little something for everyone. Joey learned how to play guitar, drums and the art of storytelling through musical lyrics. Music is a God-given talent that Joey discovered shortly after writing his first song “Far Far Away.” Behind every song Joey writes and records there is a story, a lesson and a purpose, and behind that purpose is a man who works hard to support his family while working to make his dreams become a reality through his fans.
The majority of the original songs are co-written by Joey along with other hit songwriters in his circle including legendary country music songwriter, Paul Overstreet, who contributed to the album with his song “Country Life” and the legendary Jordanaires who were an American vocal quartet that formed as a gospel music group in 1948 in Springfield, Mo. “Anchor Me In” is set to be added to Amazon, iTunes, Spotify, Soundcloud and other music outlets around the world in late spring. Follow Joey Herd on Facebook and at JoeyHerd. com.
Submitted to Branson Globe
The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission congratulates Ann Marie Baker of Springfield on her recent appointment by Gov. Mike Parson as commissioner. Baker was sworn into the position Friday fol-
Read the fine print
By Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed ElectricalIn this article, I am going to talk about the importance of whole home surge protection again, but for different reasons. You already know that this is the time of year when homeowners experience damage to major appliances due to storm surges (over voltage). With the new wave of appliances that feature more technology, there are some important details to know about warranties and surge protection.
For example, the installation of Electric Vehicle chargers is now very common. The vast majority of these vehicle chargers have a clause in the warranty regarding the requirement of whole home surge protectors. In other words, a power surge can damage the functionality of an EV charger, and manufacturers will NOT honor the warranty if a customer does NOT have whole house surrge protection installed. With chargers costing between $500-700, they are just as expensive to replace as many other major household appliances, so it is
lowing the Senate’s confirmation of her appointment.
“We are excited to welcome Ms. Baker’s experience and knowledge to this esteemed commission, and we look forward to the important work ahead with her engaged,” said Commission Chairman W.
Stephanie Callahan, Owner/Lightspeed
Electricalworth it to be preventative. In 2020 the National Eletcric Code was updated (NEC Section 230.67) to REQUIRE surge protection for all electric services (main panel) supplying residential dwellings; including all new construction, panel upgrades and even some circuitry. This “fine print” about surge protection may also be found in the warranties for other large appliances like HVAC units, dryers, stoves, etc. If you want to prevent potential damage, ask us about whole house surge protection. If you think you have already had a lightening damage loss, the team at Lightspeed Electrial can help you document and verify the damage for an insurance claim. Call us at 417-239-5050.
Dustin Boatwright. Baker replaces Terry Ecker of Elmo, who had served the MHTC since 2017 and held both chairman and vice chairman positions throughout his tenure.
“We thank Mr. Ecker for his important service on be-
• BOOK STORE
Continued from page 4A
programs or speakers brought in or held at the Library. Another could be to provide materials for special projects. The Friends will consider many
• ENTREPRENEURS
Continued from page 2A
exciting businesses:
Marlene Barger, 3D-Lishus Designs, digital designs for 3D-Printable cookie cutters
• Melissa Bollinger, residential and commercial cleaning
• STATION 4
Continued from page 1A
Martin said that the project originally came in over budget because of the “then current market construction trends and bigger ‘factors’ they were originally looking at.” Once they realized the challenge, they “made some strategic changes to the building, and that allowed us to remain within budget.”
Station 4’s design aimed to improve firefighters’ health and safety from the start. He said the firefighters were involved during the design phase. Martin said that the new station incorporates features consistent with the current firefighting trend toward cancer awareness. The open bay concept, coupled with a separate decontamination room and climate-controlled storeroom allows for the complete cleaning and decontamination and storage of their bunker gear free from can-
half of all Missourians,” said Boatwright. “We can’t say enough about his leadership throughout his tenure. We’ve experienced tremendous progress funding transportation in Missouri – progress directly returned to infrastructure needs across the state.
ways to best use the funds to meet the interests and needs of our community.”
The Friends of the Library Book Store is located in the lower level of the Library Center of the Ozarks, at 200
• Jonathan France, handyman and lawncare
Trace Haddock, TH Mobile Detailing LLC
Dixie Henrichson, Weave Got You LLC, Black Beauty Supplies
• Gwen Markus, Getting Better with Gwen, a wellness business
• Doug Parker, Doug
cer-causing agents and other “stuff.” Another feature is a steam shower in with their regular shower. This opens the pores and helps get rid of all the “bad stuff.” Another feature is the elimination of loud bells and noise to alert the firefighters to a call. Station 4 has three shifts, with four personnel each. Each shift comprises a captain, engineer (driver), and two firefighters. Each shift will have 24 hours on and 48 hours off. Unlike the more open concept of the other Branson Fire Stations, Station 4 has separate bedrooms for each position with three lockers in each, one for each separate shift. The firefighters buy their own food, so the kitchen has three refrigerators, one for each shift. Martin mentioned that many appliances and other kitchen items were generously provided by local residents who held a “Station Warming” event.
Mr. Ecker took his role on the commission seriously and focused tireless efforts keeping infrastructure in good condition, from our interstates to our lowest volume roads.” Baker currently serves as executive vice president of UMB bank in Springfield.
South 4th Street in downtown Branson. The store is open Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Said Oswald, “If you aren’t familiar with the Book Store,
Knows Branson blog
• Cassie Pickle, Creation’s Bakery
• Jill Rodriguez, Frosted Crumble Bakery, personalized sugar cookies
Clint Wehrman, Where Man Travel
Do you have an idea for your own small business that you’d like to develop
Station 4 will have two key pieces of apparatus, a fire engine and a decontamination unit. The Chief said that initially the fire engine will be one of the city’s “reserve engines.” Station 4 ordered a new fire engine. The payment has been made. It is now in the queue to be built. However, it may take up to two years for the delivery. The decontamination unit, funded by the state and federal government, has the capability to decontaminate up to 1,200 persons per hour from any “icky gooey” bad stuff” they might be exposed to. In addition, he mentions that the city’s antique fire engine will be kept at the Station.
There are three chief advantages to the public because of the new Station 4: reduced response times, increased capacity citywide, and a potential reduction in insurance rates. Currently, responses from Station 3 to certain spots within Pointe
She is a member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce as well as a past president and current board member of Junior League of Springfield. Learn more about the commission at modot.org/ mhtc.
please stop in and see for yourself what we have. Also, since it’s spring cleaning season, if you have any books in good condition, DVDs, puzzles or games, please consider donating them to us!”
into a profitable primary occupation or enjoyable side hustle? Studying and applying the topics covered in these classes can be a big boost toward success! Learn more about the program at www.ElevateBranson. org, or email Chris Hunter at Chris.Hunter@ElevateBranson.org.
Royale can take up to 15 minutes, possibly longer with traffic. Martin says that Station 4 should reduce that to be within the five-minute target they have for the rest of the city. In addition, the four additional firefighters increase the overall capability of the city to respond to fire and emergencies by 25%. Martin said that after a year, we could approach the Insurance Services Organization to improve our rating from a “3” to a “2.” “This could hopefully, with the key word being hopefully, reduce insurance rates citywide,” he added. The facility would not have been possible without the Public Safety Sales Tax voters passed in 2017. “Every day someone from the public says, ‘Thank you for what you do.’ I just want to turn that around and say to the public, ‘Thank you for your support and trust. We are working for you every day.’”
Anderson, Larry 84 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Barnhart, Nancy 88 Galena Stumpff Funeral Home
Bounds, Richard “Rick” Lee 64 Branson Cremations of the Ozarks Davis, Joyce 78 Hollister Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Eggleston, Charlene 78 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Lasiter, Markos “Mark” Pat 76 Branson Cremations of the Ozarks
Submitted to Branson Globe
7 Brew, the drive-thru coffee concept revolutionizing the coffee industry, is celebrating National Teacher Appreciation Week by offering promotions at its 200-plus open stands. This initiative aims to recognize and honor educators for their incredible commitment and influence, emphasizing their crucial role in nurturing learning and motivation among students.
“It has been incredible witnessing the level of growth we’ve seen since our founding and how cultivating kindness and offering a stellar product has brought so many people together,” said CeCe LaBorde, president of 7 Brew corporate locations. “We wanted to show our appreciation for all of the hardworking teachers who shape their communities and
share the same core values as our family here at 7 Brew.”
From May 6 to May 10, 7 Brew will offer a free drink card to any customer who purchases a $25 gift card to “cultivate kindness” at all stands. The offer is available through June 16 to also celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, where on both holidays, 7 Brew will offer a 7 Brew Mom or Dad sticker that will be given out with the purchase of a drink. The free drink cards are eligible for redemption until Aug. 1. With Teacher Appreciation Week beginning on May 6, 7 Brew encourages customers to give a gift card to their teachers to show their support and appreciation for all they do.
7 Brew locations throughout the nation persist in promoting the idea of cul-
tivating kindness within communities. 7 Brew was born in Rogers, Ark., in 2017 with seven original coffee-based drinks. The brand now offers more than 20,000 unique drink combinations, including non-caffeinated, milk alternatives and kids’ options.
About 7 Brew
7 Brew is a rapidly growing coffee brand that is revolutionizing how customers experience drive-thru coffee service and think about their morning energy boost. 7 Brew serves espresso-based
Link, William “Bill” Eugene 79 Branson Cremations of the Ozarks
Mason, Richard “Dwayne” 86 Cremations of the Ozarks
Massimiano, Amber 39 Branson Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory Nolin, Muriel 84 Forsyth Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel
Tucker, Timothy (Tim) C. 65 Branson Stumpff Funeral Home
Scobee, Verle 71 Reeds Spring Stumpff Funeral Home
Wright, Florence 73 Kirbyville Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory
coffee, chillers, teas, 7 Energy, sodas, and more, all with an extra boost of kindness from their team. The dream of 7 Brew came alive with the first “stand” in Rogers, Ark., and its seven original coffees. Now, 7 Brew boasts more than 200 stands across the country. For more information, visit www.7brew. com and follow 7 Brew on Instagram (@7brewcoffee), TikTok (@7brewcoffee), Facebook (facebook. com/7brewcoffee) and Twitter (@7BrewCoffee). (Photo submitted)
BY TIFFANY GRAVETT Staff Writer
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10:45
Redemption is a golden thread woven throughout the annals of biblical history. An image that arises many times in connection with redemption is a lamb. The book of John kicks off with the baptizer proclaiming the One who had come after him, declaring, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world!” (1:29). These weren’t just arbitrary words from a crazy wilder-
ness man who ate bugs and wore animal skins. They were prophetic words inspired by the Holy Spirit in fulfillment of a typological pattern that began in the days of Moses and was now being revealed before their very eyes. Biblical types are not intended to be allegorical, nor were they simply symbols made up in the minds of the authors. Instead, they are historic events that God ordained to “es-
tablish an analogy or pattern, which then organically develops and expands” into something greater beyond itself.
John’s “Lamb” imagery originated with the first Passover, when God would set his people free from slavery in Egypt: “Say therefore to the people of Israel, ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to
them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment.’ (Exodus 6:6). Exodus 12 reveals three distinctive parts of the Passover ritual: the sacrifice of a young lamb or goat; its blood being smeared on the Israelites’ doorposts; then the eating of its meat (Exodus 12:611, 21-22). These elements are similar to the rites performed to consecrate the priests in Exodus 29:
the sacrifice of a ram, the sprinkling of its blood, and the eating of its meat. In both instances, the sacrificial blood makes atonement, purifies, and sanctifies the people, making them a royal priesthood for God (Exodus 19:6).
The New Testament writers made this “Passover Lamb” connection with the death of Jesus as well, which would take place during the Passover SEE TIFFANY’S, PAGE 2B
First Amendment to the United States Constitution
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishement of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
ROB DOHERTY Publisher (504) 583-8907 robd@bransonglobe.com
JANET STEINKAMP Editor editor@bransonglobe.com
GARY J. GROMAN Independent Journalist
KIM CHAPPELL Ad Designer gabbydor210@gmail.com
PATTY DOERPINGHAUS
Stone Co. Account Rep. (530) 739-5560 pattyd.ads@gmail.com
MARK FEDER Taney Co. Account Rep. (805) 320-3746 shotgunart@yahoo.com
JOHN FULLERTON Area Historian
LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer luanna65@hotmail.com
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
The comments on opinion pages are the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily those of the Branson Globe, or its staff. Have something to say? Share it with us in your own Letter to the Editor. Letters to the editor sent via e-mail and fewer than 400 words are given preference. Published or unpublished letters become the property of the newspaper and will not be returned. All letters must include, name, address, and verifiable phone number. The editors may refuse publication of any letter that is libelous, in poor taste, or that endorses a business or product. Letters are subject to editing.
BY GARY J. GROMAN a.k.a. The Ole Seagull
On January 27, 1838, Abraham Lincoln spoke at the Young Men’s Lyceum of Springfield, Illinois. Lincoln said:
“At what point shall we expect the approach of danger? By what means shall we fortify against it? ... Shall we expect some transatlantic military giant to step the Ocean and crush us at a blow? Never! All the armies of Europe, Asia, and Africa combined, with all the treasure of the earth (our own excepted) in their military chest, with a Bonaparte for a commander, could not, by force, take a drink from the Ohio, or make a track on the
BY CYNTHIA J. THOMAS Staff Writer
M
y First 5 devotional, continuing in the book of James, has recently brought to mind discussions from college biblical history classes about whether the Bible teaches salvation by works or by faith alone. Over the centuries, theologians and scholars have compared James’ statements such as “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is
BY JOSHUA HESTON StateoftheOzarks Media & Design
Idrive down the mountain after nightfall. Despite the familiarity of the road, the houses, the street lamps, something is different in the mist and dark. It takes me a moment to realize what has changed. The hardwood trees have leafed into a deep and profound green seemingly over day while I was too busy to notice. Our long cold spring had delayed the oaks, slow to leaf, slow to blossom, slow to unfurl dangling yellow catkins. “Plant your corn when the oak leaves are the size of a
• TIFFANY’S
Continued from page 1B
Blue Ridge, in a trial of a thousand years.”
“At what point then is the approach of danger to be expected? I answer, if it ever reaches us, it must spring up amongst us. It cannot come from abroad. If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen, we must live through all time, or die by suicide.”
To an Ole Seagull, Lincoln is warning that the greatest threats to our American republic and stability would not come from external forces but from within; if the United States were to fail, it would be because of its internal conflicts and failures. At Gettysburg, after one of the most significant internal conflicts that any nation has ever seen, Lincoln said, “that these dead shall not have died in vain– that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom and that government of the people, by the
people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
Our government is not some abstract thing; it consists “of people” elected “by the people” [us] allegedly “for the people.” The Ole Seagull has a question: “Is he one of the people being served?” The answer to him, and perhaps to you, could depend on whether answers to questions like the following are “True” or “False:”
1. Considering how America withdrew from Afghanistan, President Biden should be giving military advice to Israel on how to fight a war?
2. Students and organizations saying, supporting, or tolerating “Death to America” should be able to receive government loans and grants?
3. America’s borders are secure?
4. Descendants of African slaves in the U.S. should
receive reparations?
5. The U.S. Government directly took part in the wholesale massacres and violence against African slaves in the U.S?
6. The U.S. Government did not directly take part in the wholesale massacres and violence against Native Americans?
7. The U. S. Government violated one or more treaties between it and African slaves?
8. The U. S. Government did not violate one or more treaties between it and Native Americans?
9. Tying entitlement to government services and benefits to income is fair?
10. The action of Russian invading Ukraine and the terrorist attacks by Hamas against Israel on October 17, 2023, are examples of the dwindling impact of
dead” (2:17) with Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church stating, “For by grace are you saved through faith . . . Not of works, lest anyone should boast” (2:8–9).
Recalling those discussions also took me, like many things do, back to a conversation with my dad, who pointed out that the debate was easily settled by looking at a) the context, and b) the words of Jesus. First, James doesn’t say that works, or deeds, bring salvation; rather, that they are the result of it. His Old Testament examples, Abraham and Rahab, took specific action—in Abraham’s case, he acted on belief in what God specifically assured him; Rahab acted on her observation of God’s mighty acts on Isra-
el’s behalf and her realization that the God of Israel was the true God. The belief came first, but it led to action. And after Paul reminds his readers their salvation is by grace through faith, he goes on to say God has created us for good works (2:10).
James and Paul both got their information from Jesus himself. Matthew chapter 7 records Jesus’ teaching that “by their fruits you will know them,” (v. 20) and that true wisdom is in hearing His teaching and then doing it (v. 24–26). Matthew chapter 25 is also a call to action; the end-times illustration of “sheep and goats” in v. 31–46 is particularly scary, as everyone gathered refers to Jesus as “Lord,” but their reward or punishment is directly tied to
how they treated the hungry, the needy, or the imprisoned. The parable of the talents in the same chapter is an exhortation to put our God-given skills and means to work for the Kingdom.
The religious leaders of Jesus’ day are Exhibit A of works without believing in Jesus as Lord. But once faith is in place, the word “works” as used by Paul and James could also be expressed with the word “obedience” to commands from Jesus himself.
How does this affect me?
I made a profession of faith as a child, but I’ll admit to ups and downs in the obedience department. My dad took the obedience part seriously. He regularly visited the county jail to share the gospel with inmates, regard-
America as a deterrent against aggression and terrorism?
11. Illegal aliens should receive shelter, healthcare and food even while thousands of American citizens are homeless within miles of where the illegal aliens are receiving such benefits?
12. The average illegal alien loves America and what it stands for?
13. Abortions should not be permitted in at least the following situations: Life-threatening conditions for the mother, rape or incest, and fetal abnormalities that would cause death shortly after birth or a life of extreme suffering, or lack of viability?
14. “Transgenders” should have their own athletic competitions, Olympics, etc.?
15. America is not being invaded by illegal aliens?
less of what their mistake or crime was. He contributed to organizations that assist persecuted Christian believers, and also to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots and local food drives; while he was a big believer in hard work, he also knew from experience that “everybody hits an occasional rough patch.” And, again basing his “deeds” on the words of Jesus, he was a strong supporter of Israel in his words, prayer and finances. While studying James and reflecting on Dad’s example, I’m looking closely at my own volunteering and giving. Letting Scripture interpret Scripture, I see there is no contradiction between faith and works, but that one naturally leads to the other.
Been thinkin’ about...The Green Man
mouse’s ear,” the old saying goes. We may have had extra time on that this year, as nights of cold slowed the growth, holding back the forest until it burgeoned seemingly all at once.
Another turn, another street lamp, cold florescence in the fog, a swirl of something resembling a flower, but composed instead of fog and light, the heart of the flower the cold light, defined edges against a dark of encroaching forest canopy. This springtide forest was speaking night words for the first time this season, speaking dark and ancient things again as it always has. Another turn of blacktop, and another, and the moment is gone, brightness of a Casey’s General Store encouraging forgetfulness.
Those lucid moments of dreamlike wakefulness haunt me, whispers of another time and place. The
feast. Jesus was the embodiment of the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the entire world. The apostle Peter wrote, “you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:18-19). The progression did not end there, for we now look forward to the
modern era has little time for such thoughts. It’s all about the bottom line, all about status, the artifice of title and meaning and getting ahead; just another day, just another dollar. Another social media outrage, another crisis averted. The thoughts in our minds are no longer even our own. We become pawnshop assemblages of national and global fury, thanks to our choices of media.
“Don’t forget to leave out cream for the fairies.” The turn of the springtide season is just the right time. Leaving out cream would, perhaps, do no good. The neighborhood cats would doubtless beat the fairies to the cream, unless the fairies are quick. To me the fairies are the elemental truths of a metaphysical reality as the forests again come to life.
The cats, a barrage of present day thoughts. A shot of
future time written about in Revelation when our redemption will be made complete in heaven: And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb…. And they
whiskey might indeed be better than the cream.
Casey’s General Store is bright with artificial light, as is the Dollar General. I stop in for toothpaste. Reality calls, of course. Pulling in home, I look up through the canopy of the silver maple. A bright but waning moon casts a veil through the clouds. The wind shifts, spitting rain. The forest is whispering again. “Animism” is a dirty word these days. We get so uppity we think we’re civilized and the idea of plants or rocks or forests or natural phenomena — “inanimate objects” they say — having life is called uncivilized, the lost ideas of some forgotten peoples long ago, far off, somewhere, far away.
But tonight, the Green Man is talking again, low murmurs in the dark air. The forest is alive in shadow as
the mist rises and the moon will shine clear and bright in the very early morning black when I let my wayward puppies out to pee. The Green Man walked the forests of the Old World, a nurturing, terrifying figure, promising abundance, fertility, as well as death to the disrespectful. A masculine archetype of a lost era, he represented the wildness, the mysterious shadow, the impossible-to-tame spirit of a land and a people. The Scots-Irish knew the Green Man, as did the early German settlers. He was a reminder that for every ending, there is a beginning. For every death, there is life. For every lost dream, another is reborn. And amid the wildness, the bearded bushiness, the girthy underbelly of life, far from the pristine and the modern and the appropriately tamed, there is yet hope.
sang a new song, saying, ‘Worthy are you to take the scroll and open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God’ (Rev 5:8-10). Redemption is one of the endless attributes of our loving Heavenly Father. He put in the blood, sweat and tears; we must now only believe and receive.
BY HEATHER HAYGOOD Columnist
“Few things in this world are as important as raising children. In every age, every era, every time and place, children are our treasures, our future, our immortality—the vital link in the chain of humanity.”
- William Martin
I love being a mother. The role of mother has been one of the most exhilarating, challenging, meaningful and profound experiences of my life. I view parenting as a lifelong commitment, not a race to get to 18 so I can get my life back. I pray that I’m the kind of mother who never withholds hard truth when they need to hear it or love when they
BY PAT LAMB Columnist
When we create positive memories for children, it is like investing in their future. When they are grown, many of those memories become the basis for decision making in raising their own children. They remember how much it meant to them when their parents did certain things, so they, in turn, do those same things for their children.
Children love it when parents take time to play with them. There are many benefits associated with adults getting on the level of the children and playing with them. It is an opportunity for bonding between parents and children. It is also an opportunity to observe children in an informal setting to see how they act and react to circumstances thrust upon them through games. It is also a time to just have fun. The Bible tells us that laughter is a good medicine. It is good for all of us
Thank
need to feel it. I also pray that I never find my identity in the success of my adult children.
I am not just a mother.
I am Heather. I am a child of God, a wife, a friend, a daughter, and a woman. If I raise my children in a home that shifts and bends to their emotional needs and whims, then I am teaching my children that the world revolves around them. This would be a handicap to my children in their adult lives because the world does not, nor will it ever revolve around any of us.
I agree with the above quote, and I tell my children that they are my treasure. I am committed to them, and I will fight for them even if that means at times fighting against them. How do we raise children without the entanglement of co-dependency, the confusion of self-centeredness or the fear of them leaving the nest? I could probably
write a book on this topic, and there probably are already books on this topic. However, for today, I am just going to highlight a few of what I think are the most important ways to avoid having a child-centered home.
1. We seek God first. Our home is not child centered, nor is it parent centered.
2. Mom and Dad prioritize our time, and apart from a special event, do not give up our time together for our children. We still want to have a good relationship after our kids have gone.
3. Mom and Dad do not lie to each other for our children or about them. We will give them a safe place to speak, but they will not use us against each other.
4. They are allowed one sport or activity per season. They are not allowed to do all the
things. Dominic and I are responsible for building a life that will bless our children after we are gone. If all our free time is given to the children’s hobbies, when will we build a legacy to leave them?
5. We do not allow them to mistreat each other or us. Who will they find to put up with their bad behavior when they leave?
6. We expect them to respect authority and do not shield them from consequences of their mistakes.
7. We do not end a conversation to pay attention to their interruption…. again, except for an emergency.
8. Say no to them. Children do not need to get everything they ask for. They need to be grateful for the things they have and need to learn to be happy without constant dopamine hits
from something new.
9. We apologize to them when we are wrong. They are watching humility in action, so they grow up with the understanding that the world doesn’t revolve around adults either.
10. Our happiness is not contingent on theirs. OOph! This is a hard one for me. I FEEL their broken hearts and frustrations. I must remind myself that I still have a husband, other children, and responsibilities outside of them.
11. I am not the maid and Dad is not the butler. We take care of them and enjoy it, but they have areas that they are still responsible for.
12. They are required to work outside the home when they are old enough. You cannot appreciate the money you ask for, until you understand that money is what you get in exchange for your time.
If I am being completely honest, I probably lean more towards the tendency to be child centered. I missed out on a lot of things in my childhood, and I want them to have the full spectrum of childhood experiences. I did not become a mother to live vicariously through my children and I am not raising children to stay children forever. My husband and I are raising men and women who are part of the story of the world, and they have a job to do. They need to execute their gifts and callings with confidence and precision because someone in the world will need them to show up and do their part. I want them to have the joy and fulfillment of living well and that doesn’t come from living for self.
“The best part of life is not just surviving, but thriving with passion and compassion and humor and style and generosity and kindness.” - Maya Angelou
to simply let go and enjoy our children and have fun ourselves. Memorial Day is a good time to do this. After the necessary actions of remembrances are done, such as visiting the cemetery and talking about the past, why not have a picnic with active games?
There are many games that are great for an outdoor setting. Work-up softball is a good game to play even if there are not the nine players available for a team. This can be adapted to any number of people. If at least nine are present, three people are batters and the others take various positions in a made-up baseball diamond. Use anything available for bases such as sticks, trees, or whatever can be found. (This develops resourcefulness and teaches children that they don’t always have to spend a lot of money to have fun.) Things don’t have to be perfect. In fact, it is more fun when they are not. Sometimes there may be two right fielders, or no right fielder. When a person goes to bat and is put out, he or she takes a place in the field and everyone moves up one spot and a new batter is added to the batting pool.
Red Rover is a game that some have restrict-
ed due to the rowdiness that sometimes develops. With adults present, it can be kept under control and enjoyed immensely. Two lines are formed and everyone holds hands. One line shouts, “Red Rover, Red Rover, Send _________ (fill in a name of a person on the opposite line) right over.” The person named then runs and tries to break through the line of the people who did the calling. If he or she breaks the line, a person is chosen to go to the line that sent a person over. If the person is unable to break the line, that person must remain with the line that called for someone to come over. The object is to see which line can end up with everyone.
Many other games such as wood tag or other forms of tag games can be played. In wood tag, one person is “it” and tries to catch the others. If they are touching wood, they are safe. If not, and a person is tagged, that person must be “it.”
A flour war is another possibility. In a flour war, two teams are chosen, and flour “bombs” are made by tying up flour with string in tissue. “Bombs” are thrown at players on the other team. If a player is hit, that player must go
as a prisoner to the team that hit him/her. Inevitably in games
such as the ones just mentioned, things will happen that everyone will remem-
BY DAVE RAMSEY, CEO,
Ramsey Solutions, and an eight-time No. 1 national best-selling author, and host of The Ramsey Show
Dear Dave, My husband and I
DR. RICHARD BAKER, AIF®, is the founder of and an executive wealth advisor at Fervent Wealth Management. https://www. facebook.com/Dr.RichardBaker
T
he smell test isn’t always accurate. My wife bought me some fancy hand soap for my side of the master bath. It doesn’t just stink but actually smells like the fish cleaning station at the lake. I must admit, though, that it does soap up nicely. Right now, investors are giving technology stocks the smell test and are getting
BY HEATHER
TANKERSLEY,REALTOR®, provides services for residential, commercial, land and lake properties in the Branson Tri-Lakes area.
ver thought about liv-
Eing in the same house with your grandparents, parents, or other loved
are following your plan, and we’re on Baby Step 2. We just learned that the person who has done our taxes for the last three years made mistakes on all our returns. They were really nice and did our taxes for free, but now we owe back taxes in the amount of $18,000. Since we’re still paying off debt, the only savings we have is the $1,000 in our beginner emergency fund. Should we take out a personal loan
mixed results. Big tech earnings
Investors are focusing this week on big tech earnings from Tesla, Meta (Facebook/Instagram), Alphabet, and Microsoft. In a nutshell, if this earnings season is going to boost the whole stock market, these four companies (along with NVIDIA and Amazon) will be the reason why. The electric car maker Tesla was the first of the big tech companies to report earnings. It announced that it missed market projections on revenues and earnings and that its quarterly sales fell the largest amount since 2012. Interestingly, TSLA stock rose after it announced it was close to launching
ones? You’re not alone. A lot of people are choosing to buy multi-generational homes where everyone can live together. Let’s check out why they think it’s a good idea to see if it might be a good fit for you, too.
Why People Are Choosing Multi-Generational Living
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), here are just a few key reasons buyers opted for multi-generational homes over the past year (see graph below):
to take care of this, or set up payments with the IRS?
Laura Dear Laura, Take out a personal loan. Period.
Let this sink in for a minute. How often does Dave Ramsey tell people to borrow money? Almost never. Why am I doing it now, in this situation? Because the IRS is the worst creditor on the planet. They have almost unlimited power, which they use and abuse,
several new, more affordable vehicle models.
Facebook’s parent company, Meta, announced it had beaten earnings and revenue estimates but watched its stock fall more than -19% at one point in the hours following the announcement. Investors reacted negatively to Meta’s announcement that its profits would fall because of the expense of adding artificial intelligence to its platforms. Post-pandemic momentum shift
We are seeing the effects of the momentum shift from pandemic-era tech stocks to post-pandemic tech stocks. Pandemic favorites PayPal (digital payment system) is down 80%, Roku (stream-
Two of the top reasons had to do with aging parents. 27% of buyers chose multi-generational homes so they could take care of their parents more easily. And 19% did it to spend more time with them. A lot of older adults want to age in place, and living in a home with loved ones can help them do just that. If your parents are hoping to do the same, but need a bit of help, a multi-generational home may be worth considering.
But buying a multi-generational home isn’t just
and they have ridiculously high penalties and interest rates. With a personal loan from a local bank or credit union, you’ll at least have more input and flexibility in deciding the terms of the agreement. Now, I don’t know about you, but if the person doing my taxes screwed things up to the tune of $18,000, I’d find someone else in a heartbeat. I understand you want to work with someone nice, and free is
usually a great price. But in this case, free was not so free after all. Just go to your local bank or credit union, explain the situation and see what you can work out. I always recommend small banks or credit unions over any of the mega banks. Places like Bank of America and Fifth Third just have no soul or empathy whatsoever. And the customer service at a credit union or small bank
ing TV) is down 87%, and Zoom (video meetings) is down 89% from their pandemic-era highs. The market was propelled a few years ago by these hotshot tech stocks, which did well when interest rates were low. But those stocks have fallen hard in this new investing world of high rates and less need for their services.
A lot has changed in the markets since 2020 and 2021, with the most significant change being a new high-rate environment that is making every business more expensive to operate in. The stocks we are seeing rally now are the ones investors feel will make the biggest profits in this current high-rate environ-
about being close or taking care of the people you love—it can save you money, too. 22% of buyers say they picked a multi-generational home to cut down on costs, and 11% needed a bigger house multiple incomes could afford together. Sharing costs like the mortgage and utilities can make owning a home more affordable. This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers who might find it challenging to buy a place on their own in today’s market.
ment. But even those big companies are a mixed bag; NVIDIA has been one of the S&P 500’s best performers, while Tesla has been one of the worst this year. There is a lot of pressure on the big tech stocks to keep pushing the market forward. Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and NVIDIA are expected to contribute 5 points to S&P 500 first-quarter earnings per share growth. In contrast, the index’s other 495 aren’t likely to generate any earnings growth.
I am carefully watching the rest of the big tech’s earnings report. I am currently keeping my clients fully invested and maintaining a neutral stance on equities, but I am ready to
is a hundred times better than what you’ll find at a big bank. Sure, they’re still bankers, but there’s a human element in there. You’re not just a number to them like you are to the mega banks. I hate debt, Laura, and I’m sorry you guys are in this situation. But 100% of the time, I’d rather have personal loan debt than IRS debt. In my mind, it’s the lesser of two evils. — Dave
change course quickly if needed. I expect the current volatility we experience to continue for a short time but expect stocks to react positively as the Fed cuts rates later this year and businesses keep focusing on profits. I still use the smell test pretty regularly, whether for soap or some week-old milk, but the smell test with stocks is slightly different. During the pandemic, the smell test was the buying trends of the American people, but now it is back to profits. Personally, since I’m a germaphobe, I like good soap even if it stinks, but as an investment manager, profits can’t ever stink. Have a blessed week! www.FerventWM.com
As Axios explains: “Financial concerns and caregiving needs are two of the major reasons people live with their parents
(and parents’ parents).” How an Agent Is Key in Finding the Right Home for You
Looking for the perfect multi-generational home is a bit trickier than finding a regular house. You’ve got more people, which means more opinions and needs to think about. It’s kind of like putting together a puzzle where all the pieces need to fit perfectly.
If you’re into the idea of living with loved ones and want all the benefits that come with it, team up with a local real estate agent who can help you out.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking to save money or want to take care of your loved ones, buying a multi-generational home might be a good idea for you. If you want to find out more, let’s talk.
It’s Your Move! Let me help you celebrate your new homeownership!
Heather Tankers-
A letter of thanks I would like to thank all the voters who voted YES on the ambulance question. Thank you to all the dedicated people who gathered signatures to place the question on the April 2 ballot. Thanks to the Stone County Republican Newspaper for the interview with me earlier in the process. Also, the Globe and Tri-Lakes News for their coverage. Thank you also KY3 TV, Channel 10 News, KRZK 106.3, KLFC 88.1 Radio with Charlie Engram
Thank you, Keith Kinnard, and the 911 staff that helped with their hospitality. The Elks Club of Kimberling City for their donation that was very much appreciated. The Stone County Republican Club and Shriner Club of Kimberling City for allowing me to speak at their luncheon meeting.
The Chamber of Commerce for allowing Keith Kinnard to speak at their lunch meeting. Thank you to Ayres Sign and Silver Dollar City for their help. Thanks to Brandie Clifton for helping with promotions and marketing. Thank you, Amy Viard, for keeping track of all the petitions as they were turned in. Thank you to all who manned the polls. Thank you, Tom Martin, Emergency Management; Bob Patterson, Mercy Ambulance; and Mark Alexander, Cox Ambulance, for starting this committee.
I would also like to thank the committee members and those that attended most of the meetings for all their help and input that I have not already mentioned – Dr. Larry Huffman, Dean Witherington, Shane Vaughan, Anna Marie Lewis, Linda Slaughter, Mary Lang, Doyle Childers, Pam Burnet, Steve Verheyen and Bruce Whaley. Thanks for all the prayers. They were answered in a big way. Finally, I would like
to thank everyone that I missed either because I didn’t know or I inadvertently forgot. A very big thank you for helping such an important issue pass the election with an 80% margin.
The County Commissioners have broken down the county in six districts.
Anyone wishing to run for a position on the board in the district they live in needs to file with the county clerk’s office before May 21.
Sincerely, Steven Campbell Lampe, MO Chairman Stone County Ambulance District Committee
‘It is psychological damaging’
How long does it, should it, take to get into court for adoption that the Taney County Children’s Division has terminated the parents’ rights and made the children up for adoption!
There has been no competing adoption since 2022—almost two years now.
Children’s Division has moved the children to several homes hoping to have a possible competing adoption since we have filed for adoption the year of 2022. Took them out of a foster home they had been in for almost two years.
More than one hour and 26 minutes from the foster home of a single male person home where he was taking care of a young girl child under the age of 3, and also a teenager between 12 and 14. They (Children’s Division attorney) had informed the judge that they had a foster home that would take the two children so the teenager would not have to move schools?
I am just pretty darn sure that moving one hour and 26 mins. away from where you were, you’re going to have to move schools. This ends up to be to another foster home, the
friend of the person that Children’s Division and the attorney was supposed to be the competing adoption against the grandparents, after they received their foster license. The children would have had to live with the second move for six months before we would have had a court date since NOW, they would have a competing couple to adopt my grandchildren. That was November of 2022. For some reason they decided NOT to take the children.
They then separated the two children – the two children are siblings, and in the Children’s Division handbook it says children must stay together. Another policy it seems they do not follow.
Sometime at the first of 2024, they moved the two back together, just to separate them again in four days, then separated them again.
Can someone please tell me just what all this would do for a child that seems the new foster family does not want the two children together? That is seems that they only want the toddler. I will tell you what my opinion is and what I think of all this. It is just a big pile, this is not in the best interest of the children, as they to be doing. It is psychological damaging.
It is my opinion that the Taney County Court and the Taney County Children’s Division have cause serious and unrepairable damage to the emotional and mental state of these children.
I want my day in court to adopt these children, but that does not seem to be happening.
We have no court date except to stop our visitation, so the child has NO
one, not even each oth-
er. NOT THE BEST INTEREST OF THE CHILDREN.
Samantha Williams Hollister‘The gobblers have just disappeared’ I got a phone call from a turkey hunter from Tennessee. His name is Eric Crouse, a man who makes turkey calls which you can see on the internet. He told me that he has been coming to Missouri with a group of friends each year since 1991, camping and hunting in the Mark Twain National Forest. “No more,” he told me. “The gobblers have just disappeared.” Crouse went on to tell me that if indeed I do get the Conservation Department to come to a debate of some sort, he and a number of his friends would drive from Tennessee to attend such a meeting so they could express their disappointment and ask questions.
“We want to know why they keep doing things as they always have, seeing wild turkey numbers just drop to near nothing.” Of course, their actions are to keep the revenue coming in, but if non-residents like Crouse and his friends quit buying those expensive out-of-state turkey tags, that does not bode well for the money they will make in future seasons. It is easy for men like Crouse and me and other old-time turkey hunters to see what has caused the decline. MDC biologists blame it on loss of habitat, but that is baloney. It is something that allows them to change nothing as we watch flocks decline by 50 to 70 percent overall in the Ozarks.
We should be able to
We can help you with your rent, groceries and gas. Please call to get the details 417-337-3772.
debate that at a meeting of several hundred people, but the MDC will avoid that like the front teeth of a rattlesnake. In such a debate, they will look ridiculous and show the ineptness that has taken over that Department. I am going to push hard for that and ask several newspapers in the Ozarks to help sponsor it.
We had such a meeting, which I organized, about 15 years ago at a big church gymnasium in Bolivar that was attended by a couple hundred people. The head of the enforcement agents, Larry Yamnitz, agreed to the debate, and he brought two of his top aides and talked with oudoorsmen for about two hours. Yamnitz was a top-notch agent in his younger years and was respected for his response to a fairly hostile group that asked questions in an orderly fashion. I gave answers to those questions in an adversarial response and much good came from it. The following week, Yamnitz changed some rules and policies for enforcement agencies. One important thing that came from it was the elimination of a rule allowing agents to close down taxidermy businesses in Missouri, as they had been doing.
I drove around talking to camps of turkey hunters last week, and I can tell you that the MDC is now looked upon by most of them as an agency that has lost its way. Hunter Gary Ellis, from Independence, Missouri, would love to go to a debate where he could tell what he has seen, the disappearance of wild gobblers and the abuse of innocent people
by game wardens. “I had to pay a 100 dollar fine after an agent wrote me a citation for parking on the wrong side of the road,” said Ellis.” It was a little gravel road alongside a river where I went to fish. I parked there to go look at it and was ticketed for parking on what he considered to be the wrong side.” Ellis was mad and had things to say about agents that no newspapers would print. That debate which would allow people to ask questions could draw lots of people to a venue in a small Ozark town somewhere. As for any expense, I would pay it and put my own money into advertising it. I am a biologist, too, with a degree from the University of Missouri in wildlife management, School of Agriculture. That term, ‘wildlife management’ has become a joke. At that debate, which I would like to hold the first week of September, I will discuss some things their young biologists do not know. The MDC has gone to a lot of time and expense to discredit me with some of the more than 100 newspapers I have written for. Think of how easy it would be to discredit me on a gymnasium stage if a half dozen of their best minds were there against me alone!
Wherever you read this, clip out the column, and send it to the Missouri Department of Conservation with a note saying: “Why not”?
Larry Dablemont Bolivar
Branson School District honors bus drivers and administrative professionals
Allen Asbury is more than just a school bus driver. When he is not driving his yellow coach around town, he is most likely performing on stage in front of the millions of visitors that come to Branson each year. Allen is a singer in Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express show, as well as the Music Minister at Grace Community Assembly Church.
But his voice doesn’t stop there: “As the wheels go ‘round and ‘round, I’m making connections. Even if I’m not saying anything, I’m still communicating to them that this is a safe place and you’re valued.” Although his school bus may not have the same flashing lights and clapping crowds found at the theatre, Allen is content knowing he is making a difference in the lives of Branson’s most precious spectators.
The district recently celebrated Allen and the entire transportation department on National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. Because of their dedication, students can safely get to and from school, teams can make it to games, and classes can enjoy field trips.
Branson Schools’ secretaries, administrative assistants and business office professionals were honored on National Administrative Professionals Day. These servant hearts do so much for the district, often behind the scenes. Answering phones, greeting guests, assisting teachers and keeping everyone organized are just a few of the items they do daily. Not to mention the happy smiles and fun they share with students and staff.
Thank you to all of the office personnel who keep the Branson district running efficiently!
Branson School District offers free summer meal program
In conjunction with summer school in the Branson School District, a free, nutritious meal will be available to all children age 18 and younger and eligible disabled adults. Children are not required to attend summer school to participate
in the federally funded Summer Food Service Program.
Meals will be served at the following locations on the following dates:
• Branson High School, 935 Buchanan Road
June 3 - 6
June 10 - 13
June 17 - 20
Breakfast: 8-9 a.m.
Lunch: 12 - 1 p.m.
• Cedar Ridge Elementary, 396 Cedar Ridge Drive
June 3 - 6
June 10 - 13
June 17 - 20
June 24 - 27
Breakfast: 8:10 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Lunch: 10:40 a.m. - 12:40 p.m.
Grace Getmen and Miranda Woolstrom placed 22nd out of fifty earning a Group 2 Rating.
Additionally, Mahali Loftis and Jaidyn Girdley were awarded the highest award the Missouri FFA Association can bestow upon an FFA member, the state degree. Hollister FFA Sponsor Mr. Quaid Taylor said that this award is a testament to Mahali and Jaidyn’s hard work and dedication throughout their time in high school.
Hollister School District recognizes school bus drivers and administrative assistants
For additional information about the free summer meal program, please call the district’s Nutrition Services office at 417-334-6541, ext. 9051, or visit www.branson.k12. mo.us Hollister High School State FFA Convention results Hollister High School FFA Members traveled to Columbia on April 17 to compete in the Missouri State FFA Convention.
The agronomy team of
Jaidyn Girdley, Chance Techemeyer, Anna Greblowski and Ethan Leblanc placed seventh out of sixty teams from across the state earning a Group 1 Rating.
The nursery and landscape team of Mahali Loftis,
School Bus Drive Appreciation Day was observed recently at the Hollister School District, to celebrate the dedicated men and women who ensure students arrive safely at school and back home every day. Their commitment to safety and caring hearts makes them an integral part of the Hollister family. Thank you for all you do, rain or shine, to keep the Heart of Hollister beating strong. Let’s give a big shout-out to the amazing bus drivers. Hollister also recently recognized their administrative assistants on Administrative Assistant Day—honoring the incredible administrative office professionals whose expertise and education keep the wheels of Hollister R-V School District turning smoothly. Their hard work behind the scenes does not go unnoticed, and the district is truly grateful for everything they do. They are the backbone of the schools, a vital part of the Hollister family, and they make the Heart of Hollister stronger every day.
Reeds Spring Intermediate School celebrates robotics program
Classmates, teachers, parents and community leaders filled the Reeds Spring Intermediate School gym on April 26 to send students off in style to the VEX Robotics World Championship. Reeds Spring has five teams, 21 students, that competed in Dallas, Texas, from May 1-3.
The VEX robotics program helps students build innovation, teamwork, time management and problem-solving
skills. Judges score competitors on teamwork, driving skills and programming skills.
“These students took part in 60 practices, more than 500 hours,” said Coach Keith Kramer. “They also competed in seven tournaments in multiple states.”
The Reeds Spring students qualified for the world championship through a state tournament. The kids range in age from fourth grade to eighth grade.
Here are the members of the five teams: Nate Waters, Gracie Colon, Jameso Staugaard, and Nathan Dysart (sixth grade)
Jax Ratliff, Zoey Viola, Edie Jones, and Adi Pate (fifth grade)
Abri Climer, Wren Stever, Elliott Linegar, and Madden McFarland (fifth grade)
Alexis Lanham, Ava Schneider Behn, Jessie Cloud, Katiri Gray, and Kiersten Kincaid (fourth-fifth grades)
Ethan McKinney, Hailey Barber, Taylor Lanham, and Will Carpenter (seventh-eighth grades)
The send-off celebration included proclamations from Governor Parson, Senator Eric Schmitt and State Rep. Brad Hudson. The mayors of Branson West and Kimberling City also attended to show their support.
Reeds Spring Middle School sending two eSports teams to State
Top row left to right: Willow Kluver, Harper Fry, Matthias Olson, Caleb Eckerle, Dawes Huddleston, JJ Vasquez
Bottom row left to right: Wilder Sawyer-Ingargiola, Willow English, Christopher Simmons, Clara Burk, Hallie Lind, Hope Wolfe, Esther Maiwald (Photo submitted)
Reeds Spring School District names Teacher and Staff Member of the Year
First-grade teacher Mrs. Amy Moler is the Reeds Spring School District’s Teacher of the Year and Middle School Paraprofessional Karim Dawni is the Staff Member of the Year.
The district recognized them at the Excellence Awards Banquet on April 20 at Chateau on the Lake.
“I am deeply honored to be a part of such an exceptional
Submitted to Branson Globe Over 95 Branson students in grades 7-12 serve in Student Council. Student Council is a representative body of students consisting of at least 10 students from each grade level in addition to a President and Vice President. The group serves as a liaison between the building administration and the student body, and provides opportunities for leadership and service in the school and the community.
• Branson Junior High Student Council hosts the Annual JH Community Breakfast event each year. Ethan Gones, President of BHS Student Council, said he noticed a longing for innovation and freshness in the school’s atmosphere. “We wanted to break the mold and create new traditions that would resonate with every student,” says Ethan.
One of the hallmarks of STUCO’s endeavors is to create inclusive events that foster a sense of belonging among the student body. For Ethan, the inaugural Powder Puff tournament stands out as a testament to the council’s ability to unite the school. “The atmosphere it created was
Only four teams in the state qualify for the eSports state championship, and Reeds Spring Middle School will be represented in two categories. One team plays the video game Super Smash Bros. and the other plays Rocket League.
“It’s just a wonderful thing to see,” said RSMS eSports Coach Drew Parsons. “Students come together, support each other, and learn from each other.”
The Smash Bros. team members are Aleksey Smith, Aeries Glasgow, Josh Thomas, Brayden Higginbottom, Pierce Carlson and Travis Gray. Carlson said he enjoys playing video games and making friends, but there’s another benefit.
“Other students are actually starting to recognize us,” Carlson said. “So are teachers. It’s going around school that we’re going to state.”
The Rocket League team members are Asher Halbmeier, Jaxen Fletcher and Johnny Farmer. Halbmeier said it was an emotional moment when the team advanced to state.
“We did so good that we made Mr. Parsons cry,” Halbmeier said.
“It’s true, I did,” Parsons said. “I love their enthusiasm and how it takes the same level of discipline, research and practice time as any other sport.”
Both teams will play on Friday, May 10, in Mexico, Missouri.
district, alongside remarkable colleagues and the most outstanding students,” Moler said.
“I’m just trying to keep up with this amazing Reeds Spring Middle School crew,” Dawani said. “They make me want to be the very best every single minute. We really, really, really
love helping middle school kids become awesome humans.”
This is Mrs. Moler’s 15th year with the district. She’s known for building strong relationships with her students and knows how to make learning fun and relevant.
Dawani’s has been with Reeds Spring Schools for two years. Several colleagues noted his positivity and ability to connect.
Reeds Spring School District recognizes retiring staff members
Reeds Spring Schools recognized 14 retiring staff members with 331 years of experience, at the district’s Excellence Awards Banquet on April 20. They include: Eric Davis, Rhonda Davis, Tony Haupert, Kris Kessler, Chris Lowe, Kelley Neugebauer, Cindy Popst, Julie Prince, Gayla Shinnebarger, Jody Shinnebarger, Lonnie Smith, Robin Verheyen, Scott Walker and Brenda Walters.
STUCO members regularly volunteer at Christian Action Ministries (CAM) to prepare food for those in our community.
By hosting a Bowl-AThon, STUCO was able to raise $2,168 for the Special Olympics. This is one of many fundraisers the group holds throughout the school year.
BHS Student Council organized their first Community Blood Drive this March.
something I’ve never experienced at Branson,” Ethan recalls. “It was a day filled with genuine community spirit, where everyone, regardless of background or SEE LEADERSHIP, PAGE 9B
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Reeds Spring Primary School Learners of the Month
Special pre Mother’s Day Celebration event with a free food buffet, every lady gets free flowers and a door gift. With drawings for free merchandise each hour and a 1 ct. diamond ring drawn for at end of auction.
“SPECIAL ESTATE COLLECTION”
JEWELRY
A nice collection of Navajo sterling silver jewelry with turquoise, coral and other stones from south trading post closing estate over 40 pieces. 14K ring with 4.02 ct round diamond sol in 3 ct round diamond mount, 14K ring with 7 ct ruby in diamond market, 14K ring with .60 ct round diamond sol, 14K ring with 6.21 oval diamond sol in diamond mount, 14K dome ring with 4 ct diamond and 1 ct emerald, 14K ear studs with 2 ct diamonds, 14K ring with 2.23 ct princess cut diamond sol on Tiffany type band, 14K chain and bezel with $20 Buffalo gold coin and 1 ct diamond, platinum ring with 3/4 ct round diamond in diamond mount, 14K ring with 1 ct round diamond sol, 14K ring with 2 ct round diamond sol, strand of genuine pearls, 14K ring with 5 ct Kunzite in diamond mount, nice collection of fashion rings with diamonds and rubies, emeralds, sapphires, blue topaz and more, several diamond cocktail and cluster rings with diamonds up to 4 ct total wt., several pair diamond ear studs with up to 4 ct total wt., diamond tennis bracelet with 6 ct diamond, other diamond bracelets and necklaces.
ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES
Several fancy walnut and oak parlor tables some with marble tops,good assortment of leaded glass windows, stone jars and jugs some rare very early, cast iron garden bench, pr aluminum porch urns, oak whiskey and wine barrels, copper weather vanes, snow shoes, dovetail immigrant trunk, leaded glass lamps, Gone with the Wind lamps, oil, gas, food, and drink advertising signs, collection of old and semi modern oil paintings and prints in old frames, collection of cast iron toys and banks, several old kitchen and mantel clocks.
OLD SOUTHWEST TRADING POST CLOSED OLD WEST COWBOY AND INDIAN COLLECTABLES
7 ft carved cigar stone Indian from Arizona trading post, Navajo Indian pottery including Santa Clars, Jemez, Zuni, and Navajo types, longhorn steer skull, totem pole, smaller painted cigar store Indian, buffalo skull, big collection of almost 100 stone items like axes, pipes, flint arrow and spear points, hand carved Indian bust, ball war club, pipe tomahawk with beaded sash, pope eye bird stone large 35# stone ax, stone idols, a catalog on Indian items will be provided.
TAXIDERMY
Large Russian brown bear, antelope head mount, large mountain sheep head, artic fox, large buffalo head, several sets long horn steer horns on black forest plaque, 16 point elk head mount, whitetail deer head mounts, large colorful steak hides,
ANTIQUE GUNS
Winchester mdl 1866 engraved rifle, star civil war musket, Burnside civil war carbine, colt 7 1/2 bll brand & engraved 44-40, brand engraved colt SA army 44-40, colt cavalry proofed Ainsworth (custer period), Colt artillery with Ainsworth trigger guard.
KNIVES
Collection of bowie and hunting knives, antiques Winchester shell box (wood), custom make extra long bowie knife with star handle, engraved percussion pistols.
RARE COIN COLLECTION FROM ESTATE
Great collection of rare UNC and key date Morgan dollars including several Carson City dollars, rolls of Indian head cents, buffalo nickels, large can of copper Lincoln cents, over 300 mercury dimes, older 100 walking Liberty half dollars, books and collection of rare coins, rolls of UNC peace dollars, bars of circulated Morgan dollars proof sets, monster box of silver eagle dollars over 200 1 oz. buffalo rounds, 5 oz silver bars, 100 oz silver bar plus type coin collection, gold $1 gold type 1 and 3, 2 1/2 Indian and Liberty gold, $5 Indians, $10 Indians and Libertys, US $20 Liberty and St Gaudens, US $50 Buffalo and eagles, plus more! All Coins And Bullion Guaranteed Authentic.
BY BRIAN H. SEITZ, State Representative for the 156th District in Missouri
Seitz leads the way in defunding Planned Parenthood
Last week, I spoke from the House Floor on SS#2 HCS HB 2634, the effort initiated by Budget Chair Cody Smith to defund abortion provider Planned Parenthood from receiving Missouri taxpayer dollars through Medicaid reimbursements.
During the floor debate I said, “Abortion is murder,” then asked a rhetorical question, “Is Planned Parenthood sending monies from our state budget, to OTHER states, to allow for women to have an abortion?”
I then turned to God’s word for backup, paraphrasing Jeremiah 1:5 which states in part, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee.” I noted that human life begins at conception and must be protected.
HB 2634 would make it illegal for public funds, including Medicaid reimbursements, to support abortion facilities or their affiliates, while granting taxpayers and the Attorney General the right to take legal action to enforce these provisions.
HB 2634 simply codifies in our statutes that we will not allow abortion providers or their affiliates to be reimbursed through our state’s Medicaid program. The bill also amends an existing statute, requiring MO HealthNet participants to obtain services only from qualified providers and empowering the Department of Social Services to revoke contracts with providers found unqualified due to specific offenses. Additionally, the bill prohibits reimbursement to abortion facilities under the “Uninsured Women’s Health Program.”
With the passage of this bill, we are saying that taxpayer dollars will not be used to pay for abortion. Medicaid funds will remain dedicated to senior citizens, disabled persons and those in financial need pursuant to Missouri law. We in the Missouri Legislature stand for the most vulnerable members of our society, for those
who have no voice. Today, the unborn have a voice. Missouri House passes bill furthering the protection of vulnerable persons from human trafficking In an ongoing commitment to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals, the Missouri House of Representatives has approved HB 2688. This bill establishes a statute of limitations for sex and human trafficking offenses in Missouri and implements vital measures to address these issues, including the formation of the “Council on Human Trafficking” within the Department of Public Safety. Comprising diverse stakeholders, this council will convene regularly to coordinate prevention training, offer necessary services to victims, assess state data, and raise public awareness.
HB 2688 mandates that prosecution for certain human trafficking offenses must commence within 20 years. It also introduces a new offense: patronizing a victim of sexual servitude, punishable as a felony carrying a potential sentence of five to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 if the victim is 18 years or older. If the victim is under 18, the
potential penalty includes life imprisonment without parole or a minimum of 25 years served. Convicted individuals must also pay restitution to their victims.
Moreover, the newly established offense of patronizing a victim of sexual servitude, along with the offense of enabling sexual exploitation of a minor, are now categorized under Tier III of the Sexual Offenders Registry.
We must stand united in our commitment to combat sex and human trafficking. By enhancing prevention, strengthening prosecution, and supporting survivors, we are taking significant strides towards protecting the vulnerable and prosecuting those who exploit them. Together, we can build a future where every person’s dignity and rights are upheld, and where the chains of trafficking are broken forever.
The bill will now move to the Senate for consideration, where lawmakers are expected to continue their bipartisan efforts to combat trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.
Missouri House passes amended SJR 74, heads back to Senate for further review
The Missouri House of Representatives has made
a historic move by passing SJR 74, which proposes crucial changes to the state constitution in an effort to enhance the integrity and transparency of the constitutional amendment process.
SJR 74 aims to refine various provisions pertaining to constitutional amendments, addressing key concerns regarding voter approval thresholds, foreign influence in initiative petitions, voter eligibility, and the review process for proposed amendments. Under the resolution, an initiative would need to win a statewide popular vote and a majority in at least five of the state’s eight congressional districts.
This legislation will strengthen the constitutional amendment process in Missouri. This bill still ensures that a simple majority of the votes cast decides an election; however, this legislation requires a concurrent majority of five of the state’s eight congressional districts to approve any constitutional amendments or initiatives.
This simply seeks to ensure that we are getting a truly fair representation of the state. The amendments made reflect our commitment to upholding the integrity of
our state’s constitution and ensuring that the voices of Missourians are heard.
After careful consideration and debate, the Missouri House passed SJR 74 with amended language that would curb any potential foreign activity in the initiative petition process, reflecting the collaborative effort of legislators to ensure that the proposed amendments align with the best interests of Missourians while prohibiting any outside influence.
Our House language reinforces safeguards against noncitizen voting and prohibiting foreign involvement in initiative petitions, ensuring that Missouri’s electoral processes remain untainted by outside influences. In passing this legislation, we are standing for democracy and accountability, and saying once and for all that our constitution is not for sale. The resolution now heads back to the Senate, and if approved, heads to the Governor’s desk. With his signature, the resolution would be put before the voters for approval. Brian H. Seitz Rep. 156th District 201 W.
Submitted to Branson Globe
“Why would donors continue writing checks to subsidize illiterate morons? These universities are no longer producing the future leaders of America, and I applaud those who have committed to withdrawing financial support and encourage other to follow suit until significant changes are made, starting with the resignation of President Minouche Shafik,” said Congressman Eric Burlison (MO-7) Burlison was joined by Reps. Jeff Van Drew (NJ-2),
Continued from page 7B
grade, could come together and celebrate.”
Kalea noted Field Day as her favorite event. “Field Day epitomizes inclusivity,” says Kalea. “It’s a day where barriers dissolve. Seeing the entire student body come together to revel in fun and camaraderie is truly heartwarming.”
You will often find Student Council members in our PreK-6th grade buildings throughout the school year assisting our younger learners as reading buddies or Game Day helpers. Planning our district-wide Homecoming and Courtwarming Spirit Weeks, organizing building-wide assemblies, and decorating for school dances are additional ways STUCO leads.
Beyond organizing events, the council members take pride in their role as ambassadors within the school community. Both Junior High and High School STUCO representatives present an update to the Board of Education each month. “It’s an opportunity to showcase the hard work and dedication of our members,” Kalea explains.
Guiding the Junior High students on their journey is Jenny Everett, who has been leading this group for the last 27 years. “Seeing students grow into confident leaders and carry
Brandon Williams, NY-22), Josh Brecheen (OK-2), Russell Fry (SC-7), Andy Ogles (TN-5), Ronny L. Jackson (TX-13), Randy Weber (TX14), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Anthony D’Esposito (NY-4), Mike Collins (GA-10), Keith Self (TX-3), Jason Smith (MO-8), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Bob Good (VA-5).
“Donors and alumni of Columbia University should cease all support for the university until President Shafik resigns and until the university proves it can protect Jewish students and
the spirit of STUCO into their adult lives is immensely gratifying,” says Everett. BHS Student Council was awarded the 2024 Missouri Association of Student Councils Honor Council Gold Award. Awards were presented at the 2024 MASC State Convention held in March. Ethan and Kalea also earned the Distinguished Student Leader Award for their contribu-
stand against antisemitism. I applaud Congressman Burlison for leading this effort,” said Congressman Josh Brecheen (OK-2).
“Liberal privilege has never been more apparent than what we are seeing at these “elite” universities from students and faculty who are proudly Antisemitic and shamelessly supporting Hamas. These university leaders have FAILED their Jewish students, and need to be held accountable for poisoning the minds of generations of Americans.
tions as officers. In 2022, Branson High School hosted the 74th Annual MASC State Convention with over 700 student leaders and 200 advisors from school districts throughout the state. During the 2022 Convention, Megan Horton, Todd Koon, and Sunshine Ridinger were also recognized for their contributions to MASC as BHS Student Council Advisors.
These protestors are supporting terrorism and should be treated as a foreign terrorist threat. Instead, these snowflake protestors are thrown in jail for minutes, just to be bailed out by Soros-funded groups, and most are not even being charged with anything. It is ridiculous,” said Congressman Ronny L. Jackson (TX-13).
“Failure to take swift and direct action to stop blatant antisemitism cannot be overlooked. Until Columbia University fires President
Shafik and makes significant strides to right their wrongs, donors and alumni should pull their support,” said Congressman Russell Fry (SC-7).
Table Rock Lake Property Flexibility Act
Congressman Burlison said, “For decades, Table Rock Lake has been a beloved destination for tourists and homeowners alike.
Unfortunately, some property owners have unknowingly built structures on Army Corps land. Instead of forcing these individuals to
remove their structures, we should create a fair process that allows these property owners the choice to either lease or purchase this land. This way, the property owners get to keep the structures and the Army Corps is provided the fair amount of funds for the land.
The Table Rock Lake Property Flexibility Act seeks to provide a commonsense solution by offering homeowners the opportunity to purchase or lease adjacent a small parcel of Army Corps land,” said Rep. Burlison.
• 2 End-time Prophecy Terms & Themes. Pastor Kris teaching terms from the Book of Revelation, Olivet discourse and forecasts for things that must shortly come to pass. Get equipped with an end-time vocabulary with 100 Bible prophecy terms and their application to you today. College level! Taught by Dr. Kris Jackson, Pastor of Yes! Church, 360 Emerson Rd., Reeds Spring. All classes are 12 p.m.-1 p.m. on Thursdays.
• 3 Freedom Encounter is excited to announce their Spring 2024 Student Day! This special day will feature a live Bald Eagle demonstration at 9 a.m. and the Freedom Journey Show at 10 a.m. Everyone is a student! This means all tickets are $10 plus tax. Join us as we teach the story of tyranny, faith and freedom with live music, holograms of historical figures, testimonies of modern immigrants, and quotes from America’s founding fathers. Call 417-544-0372 for more information. Concession stand will be open with
items for sale including candy, drinks, hot dogs and popcorn. Freedom Encounter, 3220 Falls Pkwy., Branson.
• 3 College of the Ozarks Concert Band’s concert at 7:30 p.m., Jones Auditorium, on C of O campus. Free admission. Open to the public. “The College of the Ozarks Concert Band is so appreciative of the support the local community has shown us over the years; we promise you will not be disappointed with our last concert of the school year,” said Dr. Kevin Powers, director. “We will be performing fantastic music, including the iconic “Raider’s March” by John Williams. Come and enjoy a fun evening of music with the C of O Concert Band.”
4 Shepherd of the Hills Garden Club annual plant sale, 8 a.m.-noon (or when all plants are sold – whichever comes first). Apple
Tree Mall parking lot, 1830 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson. Proceeds from plant sale (the Club’s only major fundraising project) support many community projects. Come early for
best selection and free, expert advice from Garden Club members. Follow us on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ SHGCPage
• 4 American Legion Post 220, Branson, invites veterans and active duty service personnel to join their community. We are a service organization advocating patriotism across the U.S. through diverse programs and member benefits. Please join us for a BBQ and family fun day, 10 a.m., Faith Lutheran Church, 221 Malone Drive, Branson. https:// www.facebook.com
• 4 Miss Linnie’s Boutique Kentucky Derby Party, 5 p.m. It’s my grand opening and the Derby is the perfect excuse to wear a bodacious hat. Parking lot behind Peddler Pete’s off Pacific Street, across from Liberty Plaza. Drinks are non-alcoholic.
• 4 Tri-Lakes Community Singers, free concert! Good time ‘60s oldies music: “Rockin’ the Oldies,” 7 p.m. Wear your poodle skirt and bell bottoms. Kimberling City Methodist Church, south on Rte. 13 toward the bridge, turn at CONOCO station.
5 All you can eat spaghetti lunch. Fundraiser for Branson Masonic Lodge #587. Includes meatballs, garlic bread, salad, dessert and drink—all for only $10. Serving 11-2, 100 Chiefs Ct., Branson.
• 5 Tri-Lakes Community Singers, Good Time Oldies Show featuring Good Time Oldies Choir, 3 p.m. Free admission (freewill offering taken to defray expenses). Plenty of parking. Kimberling City Methodist Church.
• 5 May Branson Jammin’ for Jesus, free Gospel concert, 2 p.m. at Hughes Brothers Theatre 3425 W. 76 Country Blvd. to benefit Ozark Mountain Music Association Kids’ Camp. We will collect donations of individually wrapped snacks for the 50 kids attending camp or monetary gifts to help provide scholarships to attend camp. A love offering will be taken. Hosts are Brian Pendergrass and Sheila Meeker. Special guests include entertainer Kari Garrison of Clay Cooper’s Country Express; possible surprise appearance from The Baldknobbers Brandon and Megan Mabe. Also featured, Gary Dooms, Marlene Pelt, Mike McAdoo and Mary Fay Jackson. Make plans to attend as you are blessed with God’s Word through music.
• 5 Taney County Hispanic Workforce Coalition to host Cinco de Mayo celebration, 3-7 p.m., Branson Meadows parking lot, 4562 Gretna Rd., Branson. Family-friendly, community outdoor event, celebrate Mexican and Latino culture. Food trucks, vendors, live music, dance performances. Prizes, giveaways. Entire Tri-Lakes region community is invited. Join us for unforgettable Cinco de Mayo event celebration! For inquiries, to learn more, contact Jonas Tavares (JT) at jtavares@taneycountypartnership.com or visit https://www.imaginebransonmo.com/event/ cinco-de-mayo-branson/
• 6 American Legion Post #220 invites all of our former and current U.S. military friends to join us
Monday mornings at 9 a.m. for coffee and pastries, with the exception of the second Monday of the month and national holidays. Join us at 221 Malone Drive, Faith Lutheran Church, Branson. Please pull around to the back doors by the flag. Our post is through the two sets of double doors, then make a left. Monthly business meeting is the second Monday of the month, 6 p.m. at Denny’s, 2335 West 76, Branson. We look forward to meeting you! https://bransonhollisterlegion220.com/
7 Live music: Jukebox Winos at Landry’s Seafood House, 2900 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, from 6-8 p.m. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos.com
9 Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks 24th Annual Golf Tournament – Branson Hills Golf Club. Registration starts 8 a.m. Shotgun starts 10 a.m. Lunch will be on carts. Reserve by April 26. https://www. bgcozarks.org
• 9 End-time Prophecy Terms & Themes. Pastor Kris teaching terms from the Book of Revelation, Olivet discourse and forecasts for things that must shortly come to pass. Get equipped with an end-time vocabulary with 100 Bible prophecy terms and their application to you today. College level! Taught by Dr. Kris Jackson, Pastor of Yes! Church, 360 Emerson Rd., Reeds Spring. All classes are 12 p.m.-1 p.m. on Thursdays.
9 Live music: Nashville-style singer-songwriter round featuring Sundi Jo Graham, focusing on original music. 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Vintage Paris Coffee Shop, State Highway 165, Hollister, across from the Scenic Overlook. Tickets $5, available for purchase
at vintagepariscoffee. com. For more information about the show, visit www.jukeboxwinos.com
• 9 Wranglers Star Studded Honky Tonk welcomes Wade Hayes, live in concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets on sale now. For tickets, call 417-544-1405. Restaurant opens at 5 p.m. Join us for a fun night of great music and dancing at 625 Historic Hwy. 165, Branson.
• 10 Central Bank, Branson West Branch’s free Stone Co. Customer Appreciation Shred Day and Cookout, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.,18192 Bus. 13, Branson West. Bring us up to three bags or boxes of paper to be securely shredded and then grab lunch on us. Hot Dogs, chips, cookies and soft drinks served.
• 11 Live music: Jukebox Winos at Outback Steak & Oyster Bar, 1914 W. Hwy. 76, Branson, from 5-8 p.m. For more information, www.jukeboxwinos. com
• 13 Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake (www. nftrl.org) will meet on Monday, May 13, 2024, 10 a.m., at Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church, 20 Kimberling Blvd., Kimberling City. The program this month will be Adopting an Attitude of Adventure with Amanda Hoenes, author of “Digging Deeper.” A meal will be available for a fee. Contact: reservations@nftrl.org before May 2 to register or with questions.
• 13 VFW Post 11290 will be bussing tables for tips at Pizza Ranch, 1464 Hwy. 248, starting at 4 p.m. Fundraiser: some funds go to help a veteran in need, Patriots Penn - essay competition, or for Teacher of the Year award recipients. We will also hand out poppies in advance of our annual Buddy Poppy drive for Memorial Day.
Saturday, April 27, was a fun day in downtown Forsyth at the annual Spring Fling. Community residents and friends enjoyed visiting dozens of vendors, chatting with local nonprofits and service organizations, meeting first responders and community leaders, and listening to live music, along with several competitions including a car show. Even the weather was favorable, with a pleasant Saturday sandwiched in between stormy days.
Some competitions were new to the festival this year. In the Art Battle, sponsored by the Taney County Shrine Club, adult and children’s divisions were given a 20-minute time limit, using provided supplies, to paint a picture. An appreciative audience enjoyed seeing a variety of picture subjects and some very impressive work.
Also new this year was
the IronClad Classic of the Ozarks Strongman Competition, hosted by the Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge #2597 and organized by Jeff and Andrea McCotter. Following up on the successful introduction of the Highland Games at the Harvest Moon Festival last fall, male and female athletes gathered to test their skills with Atlas Stones ranging 65 to 300 pounds, Tire Flip, Farmer’s Walk, Sandbags, and Overhead Log Press. As with the Highland Games, this year’s competition was an introductory one and new for the community, but next year’s festival will be an officially sanctioned event, meaning points can be earned toward national and international competition. To learn more, email ozarksstrongman@gmail. com. “Our Lodge wanted to bring something new and exciting to the area and to Spring Fling,” said Andrea McCotter. “We will be adding several new
events to the competition next year as well.”
The first Spring Fling pie-baking contest was also a success, with 12 contestants vying for some great locally donated prizes. It was a tough decision, but the winners were Courtney Stufft, first place and winner of a fire pit donated by Country Mart; Verna Harris, second place and winner of a Casey’s gift card; and Christal Valbracht, third place and winner of a gift card to Chappy’s Diner.
Once the judges completed their tasting (someone has to do it!), slices of the pies were available for purchase, with everyone agreeing they were all delicious!
The Forsyth Area Chamber of Commerce thanks all those who participated or sponsored this year’s Spring Fling, and the community is already looking ahead to next fall’s Harvest Moon. Follow the Chamber Facebook page to stay up to date as well as to see some great festival photos.
BY LUANNA FULLERTON Entertainment Writer
F
rom the humble beginnings of three, to the strength today of five, and everywhere in between, let me introduce you to the longest ongoing performing band with no interruptions. Let me introduce you to this band that has taken 47 members, used over fourteen instruments, thousands of miles and towns, hundreds of television appearances, hundreds of recordings, over 100 films, hundreds of songs, millions of fans, numerous award titles, and so many memories added.
That’s what’s made this band. No other band can have this title; the only thing close is orchestras (and the Chuckwagon Gang). And that brings another point: they have played and recorded with orchestras. They’ve played the Madison Square Garden Rodeo, to the Grand Ole Opry, to the Houston Fat Stock Show, the Calgary Stampede, and hundreds of others.
Welcome to the legend-
ary Sons of the Pioneers. As this writer, I get the honor to attend their performances, keep track of their fun and antics, help with photo shoots, have the privilege of driving them around, and one of whom I’m honored to be married to—John Fullerton. Through this relationship I have been able to live out some of my dreams of traveling, meeting people, and experiencing new things. Now let’s take a look into what makes these five members stand apart. Let me introduce the current longest active member, the Trail Boss: Tommy Nallie. His background begins in Beaumont, TX, where he grew up in a musical family. He played violin, he was concertmaster of his high school orchestra. Other instruments that he has played include, but not limited to, lead and rhythm guitar, bass, harmonica and drums. He is a military veteran having served in the Navy. Being well-rounded in musical talent, he has played with many well-known musicians and bands. Since joining the Pioneers in 1983, he has sung all vocal parts and played many instruments. He currently plays lead guitar, sings the middle vocal part in the trio, as well as solos. Currently he lives outside of Branson, MO. I asked if Tommy could recall his most embarrassing moment onstage! His reply, “That time we were singing Whoopie Ti-Yi-Yo and when it came time for my solo, I sang the verse to Strawberry Roan. I totally forgot where I was and just started singing. And to top it off, another time I kicked off the incorrect intro to a song!” When asked if he could jam with anyone past or present, he recalled, “Gosh there were all those times at Luther’s house, with all my brothers and my nephews. Those are the fun times I’d like to have back. There’s nothing that beats those family jams! I also have my heroes, Sunny Spencer and Roy Lanham; it’s hard to choose just one!”
Next, I’d like to introduce Ken Lattimore. Born in North Carolina, but a longtime resident of Marshall, TX, Ken’s music experiences have taken him around the world. He has participated on violin in numerous symphony orchestras and has a degree in music from Texas Tech University. He taught school orchestra for thirteen years and still writes scores and arrangements as needed. He sings tenor in the trio and is currently in his 26th consecutive year with the band. I asked Ken to tell me his most embarrassing moment onstage. “Well, when doing my first Marshall Symphony Orchestra appearance, we were doing the Star Spangled Banner and while on the upbow, my
bow got caught in my jacket, it flipped around several times and landed below in the orchestra pit! I had to just stand there!” When asked who he would like to jam with, past or present, he replied, “Definitely the original Sons of the Pioneers of the 1930s, and also Bing Crosby or Louis Armstrong.”
Third, I’d like to introduce John Fullerton, born and raised in Branson, MO. John’s musical talents were encouraged from his grandparents, but it was his inspiration from the Pioneers that formed his musical education. He has perfect pitch which has served him well in being self-taught on instrumentation, chord structures and vocal structures. He is currently the band’s vocal arranger, historian and sound director. He sings baritone in the trio, plays rhythm guitar, and is in his seventh year with the band. He also has performed with many well known acts over the years and has owned his own bands. I asked him if he could jam with anyone, who would it be? John replied, “Without a doubt, all four of the Pioneers lead guitarists—Karl Farr, Roy Lanham, Gary LeMaster and Tommy Nallie.” When asked about his most embarrassing moment onstage, he recalled, “Well, there was the time I was asked to be a guest with Riders in the Sky and we performed “When Pay Day Rolls Around.” Ranger Doug asked what part I would sing and I said mid-
dle, but in the excitement of the moment I sang Too Slim’s baritone part on the whole thing!”
And now to Mr. Paul Elliott. He calls me by my nickname of “George” all the time! While growing up, his household was music filled; he started on violin at age seven. He, too, has played with wellknown musicians and bands, which began at age 19. He’s recorded for films, television, radio and CDs. He has a degree in music composition. A huge fan of the band’s first fiddler, Hugh Farr, Paul continues that sound bringing to the band the tone of a true natural fiddler and brings it to life through his natural ability. He’s been with the Pioneers for seven years and is from Seattle, Washington. When I asked him what his most embarrassing moment onstage was, his reply: “It was actually a studio session. A jazz piano player hired me for a session. When I arrived at the studio there were three other musicians there—he put some music up in front of us. It was a fast bebopp jazz piece in D flat. I thought, I’m dead, there’s no way I can play this.
He counted it super fast, I blew my part, and the engineer stopped the session. I thought I was gonna die! But it turned out he didn’t even hear my mistake— the studio had just made the switch from tape to digital, the engineer didn’t know the system and he’d messed up! It happened again on the next take! I was off the hook and told to return a week later! I learned my part! I was so relieved!
Next question I asked was if he could jam with anyone, soloist or band, past or present, who would it be? He replied, “I think today would be Eldon Shamblin on guitar, Hugh Farr on fiddle, Cary Black on bass, and Tiny Moore on electric mandolin.” Last but not least, the 47th member of the band, Chuck Ervin, who hails from Oakland, California. Chuck was born in Memphis and raised in Mississippi. He grew to love classic country and western music from family singings on their front porch. He started out on guitar and mandolin, and almost forty years ago relocated to the San Francis-
BY COWBOY JOHN FULLERTON,
a native of Taney County, and a member of the Sons of the Pioneers.
On our way back from Tucson a few days ago, we stopped by and spent a morning at the Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum, a must-see in Willcox along Railroad Avenue.
During the 1970s, Rex hosted a couple of Sons of the Pioneers tribute reunion events and his longtime pal Pedro would show up, complete with a song routine with his pots and pans! A very gifted musician, Pedro was discovered by John Wayne in the early 1950s. Looking through several large displays in Rex’s museum, here’s what I learned about Pedro Gonzalez Gonzalez.
Born Ramiro Gonzalez
co Bay area where he studied jazz bass. This led to performances and recordings in jazz, country, blues, swing and other genres. He has taught at music camps for many years. He joined the band in early 2019 and uses his experiences with journalism in the band also. Chuck claims that if he could be involved in a jam session with anyone past or present, he stated, “Chet Atkins would be fantastic! Also, the Allman Brothers Band, Duane and Gregg.” When asked about his most embarrassing stage moment, Chuck mentioned his first theater stage performance.
“Back when I was in the second grade, age seven, I was part of a song and dance routine as dancing, prancing snowmen! In my snowman costume, I’m so glad my face was hidden, it was traumatic!”
Now you’ve met this fabulous five, let’s take a short peek into the starting three in 1933. Let’s start with the men who had the vision. The founder, Mr. Roy Rogers, yes, the King of the Cowboys. A shy young man who wanted a band that specialized in harmony yodeling and harmony singing. He came to California from Ohio and found work picking peaches. A man of many talents, he could play a guitar, call a square dance, and he wrote or co-wrote many of the band’s early favorites. And he could ride a horse. The next co-founder
Gonzalez on May 24, 1925, in Augilares, Texas, his father was a trumpet player, his mother a dancer, and later his brother would become an actor. Young Ramiro, who was one of nine children raised during the Great Depression, joined a family act at age seven, dropping out of school, and due to not receiving a formal education, he would be illiterate all of his life. Years later when his acting career was taking off, his wife would read his scripts to him so he could memorize them.
During World War II, Gonzalez married at age seventeen and served in the U.S. Army as a driver. When discharged, he began a standup comedy act for Spanish speaking audiences. In 1953 he appeared on the Groucho Marx NBC program “You Bet Your Life.” The footage is on YouTube and I highly recommend taking a look at it when you get a moment. He appears as Ramiro G. Gonzalez. Marx asks him about
was Bob Nolan, Canadian born, who ended up in Tucson, Arizona. Known for writing poetry based on his experiences in the desert, two of his works would become the most celebrated songs in Western music: “Cool Water” and “Tumbling Tumbleweeds.” He would write nearly 900 songs. And the next co-founder was a talented one as well. With connections not far from Branson, being born and raised in Webb City, Missouri, Tim Spencer would also write several hundred songs for the band. His greatest works are perhaps “The Everlasting Hills of Oklahoma,” and “Room Full of Roses.” He also was the original publisher of “How Great Thou Art.”
In the beginning the group was based in Los Angeles, but by the late 1970s, home base was
his name during their conversation. Marx asks, “What does the G stand for?” He replied, “Gonzalez,” stating that both his parents were surnamed Gonzalez before they were married. Marx asked, “What does your wife call you: Ramiro or Gonzalez?” He replied, “She calls me Pedro,” which brought laughter from Marx. A song and dance routine then took place with Marx making further comments about Pedro’s comic abilities. From that time forward he was Pedro Gonzalez Gonzalez. John Wayne happened to watch the entire program and reached out to Pedro, casting him in several films, “The High and Mighty,” “Rio Bravo,” and “Hellfighters.” Television appearances would happen also, where Pedro would appear on “Gunsmoke,” “Wanted: Dead Or Alive,” and “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.”
Rex Allen’s long friendship with Pedro and his wife began on the set of Rex’s
Colorado Springs, Colorado. By the mid-1980s, Branson, Missouri, was home in the summer and Tucson, Arizona, in the winter. I find this as an extremely unusual fact about a band of this longevity, to only have four locations that were called home. While they were based in Branson, they appeared at the Lowe’s Country Music Show, the Foggy River Boys Theater, the Braschler Music Theater, the Moe Bandy Theater, the Pavillion Theater at the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead, and the Baldknobbers Theater.
Another fun fact about this band: they have done most of their nationwide traveling in their own cars all these years! All the past and present Pioneers are down-home normal people just like us! All members through the years have always had interests in other
“Frontier Doctor” television series in the late 1950s. They would remain very close and work together for nearly forty years.
Rex recalled, “Pedro Gonzalez Gonzalez traveled the country with me for so many years, he is like a brother to me. Every time I needed an act to work onstage with me, I chose Pedro because he is a showman, a hard act to follow. He has never missed a date.”
I was introduced to Pedro’s talents over twenty years ago when researching the Sons of the Pioneers events of the 1970s. In April 1972 a reunion event at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles showcased Pedro performing his stand-up act and his musical routine with his pots and pans, which usually included the popular “Beer Barrel Polka.” Another event took place at the Hollywood Paladium in September 1976 featuring Pedro, paying tribute to the Sons of the Pioneers. Both events were aired over KLAC radio and
fun activities that include bowling, golfing, fishing, hunting, horse training, cattle ranching, volunteering, boat racing, action shooting, book authors, gardening, and hiking, among many other things. There are former members whose final resting places are in the Branson area also.
One of the present accomplishments has been the release of their Gospel CD in just the past month, “Campfire Spirituals.” It’s been over sixty years since the group last released a Gospel project. There are other recording projects on the horizon. So, check them out at their website,
were archived into the Sons of the Pioneers Museum collection.
Pedro would also work closely with Mel Blanc at Warner Brothers, providing voice characterization for the Speedy Gonzalez cartoons.
Rex Allen passed in late 1999, and Pedro retired. His family is still involved in acting today as his grandson is actor Clifton Collins Jr. Pedro passed away from
sonsofthepioneers.org for purchase of merchandise, tour schedules, photos and more. Also check out their other media outlets, YouTube, Instagram, and two Facebook sites, including the Sons of the Pioneers Official Fan Corral.
As the entertainment
natural
Pedro was survived by his wife Leandra and three children. While passing through the cultural center of the universe—Willcox, Arizona, drop by the Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum, where the Spirit of the West begins! Visit their website at rexallenmuseum.org
writer, being strictly unbiased, I want to say, “WHAT AN OUTSTANDING ACCOMPLISHMENT OF 90 CONSECUTIVE YEARS, BEING LEGENDARY COWBOY MUSIC PERFORMERS!” Happy 90th Birthday, Pioneers!
Lori Zuckerman with members of the vocal group SIX (Photo by George Kurland)
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff WriterA well-known and much loved family business is now in a new location.
All Access Branson celebrated their recent move with a ribbon cutting and grand opening event last week. Previously, the com-
pany had been situated in the lower level of Charlie’s Steak, Ribs and Ale on Branson’s 76 Country Boulevard.
“We moved into our new location on April 1,” explained All Access Branson’s Michelle Ackerman
Banks. “We had been wanting to move into a standalone building for quite a while. In March we were informed by Chaz Stennet, owner of Charlie’s Steak, Ribs and Ale, that he was selling the property, and we decided to make the move. Chaz has been an amazing landlord to us, and we will be forever grateful to him. He welcomed us immediately when our office caught fire. It was our home for over five years.”
All Access Branson has been in business for more than 20 years.
“Twenty-one years, to be
exact,” noted Michelle. “We offer discount show tickets, attractions, lodging and group travel. We offer free delivery, excellent service, no timeshare solicitation and no service fees.”
All Access Branson is a locally-owned and family operated business. JoAnn McDowell, the matriarch of the family, is the owner of all Access Branson. JoAnn is joined by daughters Michelle Ackerman Banks, Lori Zuckerman and Patti McDowell. JoAnn and her daughters are accompanied by another “sister” Jackie Jones. Story Zuckerman,
On Thursday, April 25,
members of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Hollister Area Chamber of Commerce gathered at the Branson Chamber offices for a ribbon cutting ceremony with Sam’s Club of Springfield. Rhonda Smith, membership representative and membership sales manager with Sam’s Club 8296, located at 3660 E. Sunshine in Springfield, was on hand with prizes and refreshments, along with special sign-up pricing of just $14 for the first year of membership and $50 for the Plus membership, which offers significant additional benefits. Facebook live-streaming by both Chambers brought in several area residents to learn more. Smith has been building relationships through Chamber visits in the area surrounding Springfield, to gauge consumer interest
as the company plans new stores. Currently the closest locations for Branson area shoppers are the two Springfield stores, with the E. Sunshine location easily accessible from U.S. Highway 65. There is a Joplin location, and two in northwest Arkansas, leaving plenty of potential for a location convenient to shoppers along the U.S. 65 corridor of Harrison, Hollister, Branson and surrounding communities in Taney and Stone
counties, and several people in attendance at the Thursday event assured Smith they would be regulars if such a location were added.
Sam’s Clubs offer online shopping and curbside pickup, as well as a more traditional shopping experience that includes regular special events, such as a recent Celebration Expo with samples and food trucks on hand.
New membership sign-up specials are posted monthly at www.samsclub.com.
JoAnn’s granddaughter, is a part-time employee of All Access Branson. Said Michelle, “A new addition to the ‘family’ is Cassidy Cooper, who is our social media coordinator.”
The new office of All Access Branson is located at 4800 Gretna Road. All Access Branson shares the new location with Greatest Adventures Mini Golf. For tickets or for more information about All Access Branson, visit their website at www.allaccessbranson.com or call them at 417-332-2121. They can also be found on social media on both Facebook and Instagram. All Access Branson is open 9 to 5, Monday through Saturday and 9 to 3 on Sundays. Said Michelle, “We are extremely grateful and humbled by all of those who attended our ribbon cutting, came by to visit, all of the floral arrangements, and those reaching out on Facebook and Instagram. We invite everyone to come by and check us out. Let our family take care of your family. And, “Like” us on Facebook and Instagram!”
A new restaurant with a unique name now graces Branson’s 76 Country Boulevard.
The Side Chick is located at the Track Family Fun Parks, in the former location of Fuel Fresh American Grill.
As their name explains, the Side Chick specializes in chicken of all kinds—rotisserie chicken, broasted chicken, whole birds or half birds, chicken tenders, chicken wings, chicken sandwiches and more. The Side Chick menu also includes a variety
of side dishes, delicious desserts, appetizers, and beverages, including tea, lemonade, Coke products and alcoholic beverages, as well.
Side Chick uses a pressure fryer that results in chicken that is crispy on the outside, but juicy inside.
Owned by the creators and owners of the wildly popular Gettin’ Basted BBQ eatery in Branson and The Pour House in Hollister, the Side Chick concept was originally planned to be an off-shoot of Gettin’ Basted, with a chick-
en eatery located on the side of the BBQ giant. However, when the current location became available, the owners revamped their plans and the standalone Side Chick Restaurant became a reality. The Side Chick owners also have a local franchise of Bahama Buck’s and Mythical ‘Wich.
The Side Chick is located at 3405 West 76 Country Boulevard, as part of the Track Family Fun Park and Five Star Parks and Attractions.
Submitted to Branson Globe
In the upcoming art exhibit, Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) will be featuring the work of Jenny Green of Springfield. The exhibit will run from May 3 to June 1 at the SMAC Art Center gallery on historic Downing Street in Hollister. An opening night reception will be held Friday, May 3, from 6-9 p.m.
in conjunction with Hollister’s First Friday Art Walk. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Attendees may view the exhibit, tour the private studios and enjoy complimentary refreshments. The Vintage Paris Coffee kiosk will also be on site. Green is a multi-talented artist, whose deep exploration into botany and
screen-printing influenced her artwork for this exhibit. She chose flowers common to the Ozarks and created numerous monoprints of each one. These large-scale florals are exquisite in their botanical accuracy and detail, while each is a unique color combination. Green will also have greeting cards available for purchase. Each month during their
Two talented artists are bringing a special new mural to downtown Branson.
Located on the corner of Commercial and Pacific Streets, the mural can be seen on the side of the Branson Centennial Museum.
Artists Christine Riutzel and Delanie Cooper bonded over a shared love of art and Rose O’Neill, the famous Ozarkian who created the Kewpie Doll. Christine is a professional muralist from Hollister. She serves as the President of the Southwest Missouri Arts Connection and is a member of the Board of the Hollister Parks and Recreation. She enjoys creating fine art and public art. Delanie, an artist
and online retailer, was raised in Springfield, but now resides in Kansas City. Delanie credits the Ozarks for inspiring her art and her everyday life.
Christine and Delanie have a goal for the mural—to bring about awareness of Rose O’Neill and Bonniebrook, meaning more visitors to Bonniebrook, the art gallery, museum and homestead of Rose O’Neill, located near Branson in Walnut Shade.
O’Neill was a cartoonist, illustrator, artist, writer, suffragist, activist and philanthropist. She was most known for her creation of the comic strip character Kewpies, and became the United State’s first female cartoonist to be published.
Christine and Delanie are asking for your help in keeping the memory of Rose O’Neill alive through donations to fund their unique and exquisite mural. The 28 ft. by 21 ft. mural is expected to take $500 in paint and $300 for UV clear coat. The cost of the lift for the month it will take them to complete the mural is estimated at $1,800, and the cost of labor, at $30 a square foot, is more than $17,000. Christine and Delanie have a fundraising goal of $20,240 for the Rose O’Neill project. If you would like to donate to the Rose O’Neill project, Christine and Delanie are accepting donations through Venmo (@Rosemural), CashApp ($RoseMural) or PayPal (paypal.me/RoseMural).
exhibits, SMAC highlights one of the many local nonprofit organizations that serves the area. This month SMAC is drawing attention to Faith Community Health, a Christian faithbased charitable clinic offering income-based health services in Branson. Their services include medical, pediatrics, mental health and vision. For donations,
information or scheduling contact: info@faithcommunityhealth.org.
Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit local center of creativity, art education, innovation, and community partnership, strives to improve the quality of life in southern Missouri by connecting individuals with the arts, for the benefit of all.
The Historic Owen Theatre was packed last weekend when some special performers took the stage. On April 27 and 28, the Historic Owen Theatre in downtown Branson hosted the second annual Special Abilities Showcase. The action-packed
showcase featured a cast of performers—all with special abilities—showcasing their talents to family and friends.
The special performers, each of whom has a developmental disability, did not let their situations stop them from living their dreams of singing, dancing, performing comedy and entertaining
the audience. Nearly 40 entertainers took the stage over the two-night showcase, directed by Kyle Blanchard of the Branson Regional Arts Council.
The Showcase, a joint effort between Barnabas Prep and the Branson Regional Arts Council, was held in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month.
Spicy Sausage (uncooked)
• ¼ C Milk
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Form mixture into 1-inch balls.
3. Place 2” apart on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until lightly brown.
GO ROGUE by substituting Pepper Jack Cheese and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Want Chef Jeff to make this delicious meal for you? Contact him at www.TheRogueChefBranson.com .
of the Year,” emcee, comedian, (and AKA Jim Dandy)
INGREDIENTS: 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 eggs ¼ cup heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons grated parmesan cheese
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Warm a baking dish (Ramekin is suggested) about 2 ½ - 3 inches across.
2. Put in a little butter; then break in the eggs.
3. Pour over the heavy cream, which should almost cover the eggs.
4. Dot with the remaining butter.
5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and cheese.
6. Bake in a pre-heated 375-degree oven for 7 to 8 minutes, until the whites are set.
Reasons why you should eat breakfast every day; eggs may be a great choice
floridamilk.com
We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yet many of us just grab a cup of coffee and miss out on all of breakfast’s amazing benefits. Below are reasons why you should eat breakfast every day.
Improves concentration and focus
Eating breakfast improves concentration and focus. When you’re hungry, it’s harder to concentrate. Your body and brain are craving nutrients, so it’s important to start the day by refueling with nutritious foods like milk, fruits and whole grains. Protein and carbohydrate-rich foods like
yogurt and oatmeal are especially important for improving concentration and focus.
Helps lift your mood
Want to avoid waking up on the wrong side of the bed? Then start your day off with breakfast.
Eating a nutritionally balanced breakfast can support brain activity that helps control emotions, moods, expectations, behaviors, decision making skills and cognition.
Helps manage your appetite
Starting your day with foods that are rich in high-quality protein and/ or fiber like yogurt, milk, eggs, oatmeal, cottage cheese and fruit are espe -
cially filling and packed with nutrition. As a result, you may feel more satisfied with smaller portions than if you consumed foods that may contain empty calories and nutrients.
Helps your heart
Eating breakfast can improve heart health. Sometimes breakfast skippers replace a nutritious breakfast with snack foods that are high in cholesterol, sugar and saturated fat which may increase the risk of heart disease. Those who have regular healthy, balanced breakfasts tend to get more fiber and dairy in their diets which leads to less overeating and fewer unhealthy snacks.
Improves academic performance
Studies show that children who eat a nutritious breakfast perform better in school. Students who eat breakfast perform better on standardized tests and score higher in key areas like reading and math. Breakfast also improves concentration,
alertness, comprehension, memory and learning which are all essential for performing well at school.
Aids in weight management
Eating breakfast can help you manage your weight. People who don’t eat a healthy breakfast are more prone to unhealthy snacking choices. After a long night’s sleep our body craves food. Common breakfast foods like yogurt, oats, fruit and eggs are high in protein and/or fiber, which helps you feel full and leads to less unhealthy snacking.
Boosts your nutrition intake
Eating breakfast gives you a great opportunity to eat healthy, nutritious foods. The nutrients in milk and other dairy foods, which are breakfast favorites, have been linked to improved bone health, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and lower blood pressure. Consuming nutrient-rich foods daily will help you achieve a lifetime of health. Include fruits, veggies, whole grains, and proteins like milk, cheese and yogurt as part
of your breakfast diet.
Helps pregnant Moms meet nutritional needs
Including dairy foods like milk and yogurt helps pregnant moms get the extra nutrition they need. Milk and yogurt, which are common breakfast foods, are good sources of iodine which is essential for healthy fetal development and helps prevent irreversible neurocognitive defects and lower childhood IQ.
Boosts your immune system
Fermented foods like cheese and yogurt are common breakfast choices and important to your overall immune system health. Eating cheese, yogurt, and other fermented foods may lead to a reduced risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammation.
Choose eggs!
There are many reasons to make eggs an essential part of your diet. Eggs have long been a dietary staple, and there’s good reason for their continued presence in our menus and meals. Not only do they offer culinary variety — hard-boiled eggs, omelets, deviled eggs and
then some — they are also a source of protein, calcium and several vitamins and nutrients. Here are some of the benefits of incorporating eggs into your diet.
1. It’s a nutritious treat.
Though relatively small in size, eggs pack a lot of nutrition and can be an important staple in a well-balanced diet.
One large boiled egg has about 77 calories and contains:
Vitamins A, B5, B12, D, E, K, B6
Folate
• Phosphorus
• Selenium
Calcium
• Zinc
Six grams of protein
• Five grams of healthy fats
“Eggs are a good source of protein (both whites/ yolk). They also contain heart-healthy unsaturated fats and are a great source of important nutrients, such as vitamin B6, B12 and vitamin D,” says Kurt Hong, MD, an internal medicine specialist at Keck Medicine of USC.
2. Eating cholesterol affects different people, well, differently.
Yes, it’s true that eggs — specifically egg yolks — are high in cholesterol. A single large egg has approximately 186 mg of dietary cholesterol. However, before eliminating eggs from the menu, it’s worth investigating the dietary guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). One study suggests that eggs don’t raise cholesterol at all for about 70% of people. According to the researchers, cholesterol in the diet doesn’t necessarily raise cholesterol in the blood. The remaining 30%, who are called “hyper responders,” can mildly raise total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by consuming eggs.
“As with any food, the key here is consumption in moderation,” says Hong, who is also a clinical professor of medicine at the
LARRY DABLEMONT is an outdoor publisher, columnist, author, speaker, naturalist and outdoorsman.
T
he best time of the year to take a two- or threeday float trip is during early May, if you can plan around the high water and thunderstorms this time of year. It is usually warm enough during the day for wading shoes, but you need dry clothing and a jacket during the evening hours. There are many migrating birds to see, some nesting eagles and wood ducks guiding their ducklings to cover as you pass. In the spring, fish begin to hit a lure just as well during the middle of the day as they do early and late. And if you set a trotline baited with live bait, you will have a good chance of catching a big flathead catfish at night. When you float rivers through national forestland, you can hunt turkeys, too. Several years ago when
• BREAKFAST
Continued from page 6C Keck School of Medicine of USC.
3. Eggs raise good cholesterol.
Eating eggs leads to elevated levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as the “good” cholesterol. People who have higher HDL levels have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and other health issues. According to one study, eating two eggs a day for six weeks increased HDL levels by
there were still a few gobblers to be heard, I floated a river not far from home in early May and had a great day fishing. I was catching fish on everything from topwater lures to spinner baits. I took my shotgun along, and my turkey call, hoping I might get a young gobbler to answer me. As we floated along, I’d use the call every now and then, and then go back to fishing. Along about 10 one morning I picked up the call, stroked it a few times, and I’ll be darn if I didn’t hear a reply in a small field beside us. I didn’t hear it very strong, but it was for sure a gobbler I had heard. I got out on a nearby gravel bar and set up in a fringe of big trees beside the field, hid myself well and began to call. In thirty minutes, they were all around me, two young jakes and several hens. I picked out a Jake that looked fatter than the other one, and a while later, took a photo with a hefty stringer of bass and the turkey, laid out on the gravel bar. If you take a notion to float a river for two or three days in May, make a check list before you go, so you can travel as light as possible and still have what you need. Don’t load up with
10%.
4. Get some choline.
Choline is a water-soluble vitamin that is often grouped with the B vitamins. It’s used to build cell membranes and helps produce signaling molecules in the brain. One hard-boiled egg has about 147 mg of choline, which is 27% of the daily value recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
5. Eggs help maintain your eyesight. As we get older, we need
canned goods and canned drinks; bring a good supply of water and mixes that give you what you need to have good meals. But traveling the river isn’t like backpacking; you have room to take enough supplies and gear to live comfortably. A light tent needs a plastic cover over it if there should be heavy rain. Use that cover to protect your gear during the day from any rain. Take some dry clothes, but not a suitcase full. Take rain gear, a good flashlight and lantern, and a camp stove and a camper’s cook set.
But for Pete’s sake, don’t tackle two or three days on the river in a 17-foot double ender canoe, the capsize and chaos craft made for going fast and getting wet in. I use an 18- or 19-foot square stern canoe, or one of the paddle Johnboats that Ozark float-fishermen use. If you haven’t learned to paddle a canoe or Johnboat from one side all day long, you are at a real handicap. But anyone can learn that with some practice.
Recently I caught a 16-inch smallmouth, which fought like a tiger, then shortly afterward, a 21-inch largemouth, which gave a short struggle and gave up. With his length, he should have weighed five
to take better care of our eyes. Egg yolks contain large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, helpful antioxidants that help reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration in the eyes. Eggs are also high in vitamin A, which is beneficial for eye health.
6. Some eggs are better for you.
Omega-3 helps reduce triglycerides, which are a type of lipid fat in the blood. That’s why eating Omega-3 enriched eggs may be an option, partic-
pounds, but he was long and skinny. His head made up seven inches of his 21-inch length. He was an old male, and I’ll bet he was 10 or 12 years old. No doubt he had accounted for restocking the river with thousands of young bass, but he was too tired to fight much. Most anglers know that in the spring of the year, it is the male bass that guards the eggs on a bed and protects the young fry which hatch. You could see that responsibility had taken a toll on him.
ularly if you don’t enjoy other foods (fish, nuts, seeds) that are naturally rich in Omega-3. (If your triglyceride level is below 150, you’re doing well; 150-199 is borderline high; 200-499 is high; and 500 and above is considered very high.)
7. Get enough proteins and amino acids.
Getting enough protein in our diets is an important way of helping our body’s health. Each egg contains about six grams of protein, as well as helpful amino
Sometime this spring, try using minnows the way Canadians fish for walleye. Use a 1/8th or 1/16th ounce jig head, and a long shank hook, which can be passed through the minnow’s mouth, out the gill opening and through the back below the dorsal fin. If you do it right, it keeps the minnow alive, even though it sounds very uncomfortable for the minnow. But in such a manner, you can cast a minnow and retrieve it with a light action rod and spinning
acids. Getting our share of protein for the day can help with weight management, increase muscle mass, lower blood pressure and help our bones, as well.
8. They’re not bad for the heart.
Despite what was believed in previous decades, there is no direct link between egg consumption and heart disease or stroke. But some studies show that people with diabetes who eat eggs increase their chance of heart disease. People who follow
tackle. You’ll need lots of minnows, as the one you are casting gets jerked off the hook in time and may get fairly bedraggled after eight or 10 casts. But on the retrieve, the minnow looks very lifelike and it’s deadly for walleye and crappie both. At least it works very well in Canada. You can contact me by email: lightninridge47@ gmail.com. I urge you to visit my site, larrydablemontoutdoors.blogspot.com to read a special article there.
a low-carbohydrate diet and eat eggs have less of a chance of developing heart disease, some studies suggest.
9. It’s a filling meal. You might have noticed that eating eggs for breakfast may keep you feeling fuller for longer — that’s generally attributed to the high protein content in eggs. Whether you have an omelette for breakfast or a hard-boiled egg as a snack, eggs can help you stay satisfied after or between meals.
aboard the Goin’
You are encouraged to worship with us!
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.– Hebrews 10:25
GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT
GROUP: A new class for Grief Share will begin Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, at the Branson UMC. This is open to people from our community, surrounding areas and our own church family at BUMC. We welcome both new and returning participants. Gather at 1 p.m. for “social time” and class will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. For questions call Peggy at 641-919-1533. All are welcome!
IF YOU ARE A MILITARY VETERAN in need of a place to live, please call us and we’ll try to meet your needs. GUMI CAMP USA 417-559-3892
AMERICAN LEGION
POST #220 would love to invite all of our former and current U.S. military friends to join us Monday mornings, 9 a.m., for coffee and pastries, with the exception of the second Monday of the month and national holidays. Come join us at 221 Malone Drive, Faith Lutheran Church, Branson. Please pull around to the back doors by the flag. Our post is through the two sets of double doors, then make a left. Monthly business meeting is the 2nd Monday of the month 6 p.m. at Denny’s, 2335 West 76 County Blvd., Branson. We look forward to meeting you! HOOAH!
VETERANS & MIL-
ITARY COALITION OF THE OZARKS is an all-volunteer organization of veterans serving veterans. Contact us if you feel that you, as a veteran or veteran family, may not be receiving the benefits you deserve. Go to VMCO1.org and click on CONTACT at the top of the home page. VMCO meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month (no meeting in July or November) at the Golden Corral in Branson with 11:15 a.m. (optional) lunch buffet and 12-1 p.m. meeting.
CELEBRATE RECOV-
ERY is a place to heal from your hurts, habits, and hangups. We meet every Monday night at 6:30 PM at Music City Centre, 1839 West 76 Country Blvd., Branson. For more information call 417–320-2055 See you there!
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
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCATION SUPPORT GROUP meets at the Branson-Hollister Senior Center, 201 Compton Dr., Branson, the last Wednesday of every month from 1:30-3 p.m. For more information, call Mark Applegate at 417-955-2513 or email mark.applegate@ senioragemo.org.
SERVICES OFFERED
FREE ESTIMATES AND TIMELY RESPONSE.
Full remodels, decks, pole barns, garages, fencing and small projects. Call 417699-1635
ACE HOME IMPROVEMENT: Heating and air, HVAC service and repair, doors, windows, decks, fences, pressure washing, interior and exterior painting, siding, roofing, flooring, tile and drywall. Handyman work! Call Ryan: 417-335-1347.
COUNTRY FARM ESTATES neighborhood garage sale, 65 S. to Highway 86, left at stoplight, left on Thunderbird, right on Fruit Farm, 1 mile on left. May 3, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.; May 4, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.
COZY COVE in Branson is having a community garage sale on Saturday, May 4. Gates open at 8 a.m.
NEW HOME WANTED –GUMI DOG: This is Gi Gi. She is four years old and needing a forever home. There is no fee but a donation to the veterans CAMP is greatly appreciated! GUMI CAMP (GUMI stands for Glad U Made it) is a healing retreat for American Veterans. Suggested donation is $500. Please check out our website: gumicampusa.com.
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. 417335-5400. renttoownautosbranson.com
OPEN HOUSE – FOR SALE BY OWNER. Saturday, May 4, 11-3 and Sunday, May 5, 1-5. Beautifully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bath condominium. 110 Cottonwood Trail, Unit LA, Branson. Bottom unit. Buyer agents welcome.
WEEKLY MOTEL ROOM RENTAL: Family friendly. Deposit and rule agreement required. Cable/WiFi, fridge and micro included. $189/week. Colonial Mountain Inn, Branson West 417-272-8414.
SHO-ME CLEAN & SHO-ME FLOORING: WANTED – PART-TIME SHOWROOM SALES
HELP. Do you have some knowledge of flooring products, or have you installed flooring? Ready to take your experience to another level? Our showroom is the perfect place for you! Inquire at 417-263-1963 for more info.
BRANSON SCENIC RAILWAY
Do you like things to look just right? FULL-TIME
CUSTODIAN / MAINTENANCE/ GROUNDSKEEPER
Needed to meticulously assist in our building and grounds keeping. Help us provide great customer service. Skills needed to kindly serve our passengers. This is a SMOKE FREE – NON-TOBACCO USE business with pre-employment drug screening. Apply in person, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., 206 E. Main Street Branson, MO 65616
application. 1451 Acacia Club Rd., Hollister.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT full or part time employee? Place an ad in the Branson Globe, and fill that position FAST! An ad just like this one costs just $17.75/week!
POINT LOOKOUT
GUMI CAMP, a healing retreat for American Veterans, is in need of a dog caretaker. Paying weekly. Please call Tim Hadler at 417-559-3892.
GIANT YARD SALE Fundraiser for local Food Distribution Center! May 3rd/4th & 10th/11th, 8:30 a.m.- 6 p.m.. Located at S.W.I.M. 5400 U.S. Hwy 160, Walnut Shade Mo 65771. Furniture, Antiques, Home Decor, Tools, Lawn/ Garden, Clothing, Kitchen, Building Supplies, Windows/Doors, Bicycles, MUCH, MUCH MORE!
FOR SALE – DEEDED OWNERSHIP at Wilderness Club at Big Cedar, 15,000 points, numerous other benefits included, with privilege to use facilities at Big Cedar resort. $32,500.
COMMUNITY YARD SALE Sunset Cove, 172 Sunset Cove, Branson, May 4, 8-noon. SOLD! THE
FOR SALE: MOBILE HOME with 3 bedrooms & 1 bath. Has 2 sheds, covered patio & carport. All appliances included. Asking $18k or respectable offer. In Forsyth Summit Ridge Mobile Home Park. Call 515-729-2998.
We can help you with your rent, groceries and gas. Please call to get the details 417-337-3772.
55+ CONDO FOR RENT In Hollister, quiet and on lake. Walk-in, fresh paint, new floors, $1,295. Call/text Charles, 417-294-0337.
COZY GROUND FLOOR
CONDO. Available now!
1BR/1BA, $600/month This charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom ground floor condo is conveniently located in Hollister, less than a mile from Branson Landing, in a 45plus community with W/D in unit. Call 417-337-3285.
NURSING & REHAB
is excited to announce that we are currently hiring RNs, LPNs, CNAs, NAs, CMTs, housekeeping, and dietary staff. We are currently offering a great benefit plan. We acknowledge Covid-19 vaccination exemptions. For more information, call 417-334-4105 or apply in person at 11103 Historic Hwy. 165, Hollister. EOE
Units, Carports & Lakeviews Available CALL 417-546-3334 Shepherd of the Hills Estates www.soheapts.com
1830 First regular steam train passenger service starts
• 1861 Lincoln asks for 42,000 Army volunteers and another 18,000 seamen
1921 West Virginia imposes first state sales tax
1936 NY Yankee Joe DiMaggio makes his major league debut, gets three hits
1948 First broadcast of CBC Evening News, longest running network news show in the U.S.
1965 First use of satellite TV: “Today Show” on Early Bird Satellite
1971 Nixon administration arrests 13,000 anti-war protestors in three days
• 1982 President Reagan begins five-minute weekly radio broadcasts
• 1991 365th and final episode of CBS second longest running series TV show
“Dallas,” (second only to
“Gunsmoke”)
1999 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is slammed by an F5 tornado, killing 42 people, injuring 665, and causing $1 billion in damage
• 2016 Ted Cruz suspends his campaign to be the Republican Presidential nominee
• 2020 Investor Warren Buffett dumps his holdings in four
major airlines saying “the world has changed for aviation,” reflecting an increasingly bleak outlook for the industry
• 2021 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) takes first significant step against climate change by announcing new limits on hydrofluorocarbons (-85% over 15 years)
MARX
• HASBRO MATTEL
• NERF
LEGO
• GUND
• FUNKO
BANDAI
• IDEAL
TOY BIZ
• VTEC NECA
• PLAYSKOOL • WHAM-O
LIONEL
• KENNER TONKA
• CHIN FISHER-PRICE
• RADIO FLYER • HOT WHEELS
NINTENDO
• AMERICAN GIRL
MEGA BLOKS
• PLAY MOBILE SPIN MASTER
• HORSMAN
Solution: onlinecrosswords. net/1518 Across
1. Cordelia’s dad
5. Honored mil. award
8. Word with point or plane
13. Lowest deck
15. LAX posting
16. When the hike may start?
17. Keaton, star of 28-Down
18. Goat-legged Greek god
19. Violinist’s need 20. PUSH-UP
23. SQUATS
26. Russian fighter jet
29. Company that bought Time Warner
30. Back muscle, to Billy Blanks
31. What did ewe say?
32. How some popcorn is popped
34. Hat or maid leader
35. Seed case
36. RUN
40. “Smooth Operator” chanteuse
41. Genealogy word
42. Where McLean drove the Chevy
43. This may end alcohol
44. It’s a relief
45. The “ugly” to Clint’s “good” and Lee’s “bad”
47. They may be personal
48. SIT-UP
52. PULL-UP
56. Yellowish pigment
58. A CPA might recommend one
59. Nitrous ___ (laughing gas)
60. Extract by force
61. “Winter of Artifice” author
62. Air Jordans
63. Members of the harp
family 64. Word with real or well
65. Telegraphed Down
1. Where Napoleon defeated the Austrians in 1796
2. British Idle
3. Wings, in Latin
4. Pocket Fisherman provider
5. Chicago campus
6. Philatelist’s purchase
7. Senorita’s scarf
8. Obscurer of trees, for some
9. Big man Shaq
10. Coastal region in NE Spain
11. Young Darth Vader’s
